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The microbiome and human cancer
Gregory D Sepich-Poore1, Laurence Zitvogel2,3,4,5, Ravid Straussman6
1Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|March 26, 2021
Summary
Microbes may play roles in cancer, influencing immunity and treatment. This review distinguishes between direct causation and complicity, exploring the immuno-oncology-microbiome axis for future cancer research.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Microbiology
- Immunology
Background:
- The role of microbes in cancer has been debated for centuries.
- Recent research suggests microbes are involved in cancer immunotherapy and metastasis treatment.
- However, few microbes are definitively known to cause cancer directly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the evidence for microbial involvement in cancer.
- To differentiate between causal and complicit roles of microbes in carcinogenesis.
- To explore the immuno-oncology-microbiome axis and future research directions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and critical analysis of existing studies.
- Delineation of microbial roles (causal vs. complicit) in cancer.
- Examination of the influence of microbes on the host immune system.
Main Results:
- Microbes can be either causal or complicit in cancer development.
- The host immune system is a key mediator in the immuno-oncology-microbiome axis.
- Intratumoral microbes and microbiome manipulation strategies are discussed.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the complex interplay between microbes and cancer is crucial.
- Future research should focus on the immuno-oncology-microbiome axis.
- Manipulating the microbiome holds potential for cancer treatment.
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