The Human Microbiota and Skin Cancer

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Microbiology
• Oncology and Immunology

Background:

• Skin cancer is a prevalent global disease with ultraviolet (UV) radiation as a known risk factor.
• Emerging research suggests the human microbiota, particularly the skin microbiota, may also contribute to skin cancer development.
• The link between microbial dysbiosis, inflammation, and UV-induced immunosuppression provides a basis for investigating the microbiota's role in skin carcinogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the existing literature on the human microbiota, with a focus on the skin microbiota, in relation to skin cancer.
• To explore mechanistic perspectives on how the microbiota influences the development and treatment of skin cancer.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific articles on human microbiota and skin cancer.
• Analysis of mechanistic pathways connecting microbial dysbiosis, inflammation, and UV radiation in skin cancer.

Main Results:

• The review synthesizes current knowledge on the association between skin microbiota and non-melanoma skin cancer, melanoma, and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.
• Mechanistic insights suggest the microbiota can modulate UV-induced immunosuppression and inflammation, impacting skin cancer progression.

Conclusions:

• The skin microbiota is an emerging factor in skin cancer etiology and progression.
• Further research into the skin microbiota's role is crucial for understanding and potentially treating skin cancer.