The microbiome(s) and cancer: know thy neighbor(s)

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Oncology
• Immunology

Background:

• The human microbiome is crucial for host health, affecting metabolism and immunity.
• Emerging research links the microbiome to cancer development, progression, and therapy response.
• Beyond the gut, organ-specific microbiomes (skin, vagina, lungs) also play a role.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanisms by which organ-specific microbiomes contribute to carcinogenesis.
• To explore the distinct signatures of intratumoral microbiota in different tumor types.
• To understand the dual role of systemic and local microbiota in cancer.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on the human microbiome and cancer.
• Analysis of mechanisms involving microbial toxins, immune responses, and metabolite production.
• Examination of both gut and tissue-resident microbiota interactions with cancer cells.

Main Results:

• Dysbiosis is linked to tumor development in both the gut and the originating tissue.
• Intratumoral microbiota exhibit unique profiles across various cancer types.
• Microbial contributions to carcinogenesis include DNA damage, altered immunity, and nutrient modulation.

Conclusions:

• Organ-specific microbiomes significantly influence cancer development and progression.
• Understanding systemic (gut) and local (intratumoral) microbial effects is key to deciphering their role in carcinogenesis.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interplay between the microbiome and cancer.