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Polymorphic microbes: a new emerging hallmark of cancer
Mark P Lythgoe1, Benjamin H Mullish2, Adam E Frampton3
1Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
Trends in Microbiology
|September 4, 2022
Summary
The human microbiome, including its diverse microbes, is increasingly recognized as a hallmark of cancer. Understanding and manipulating these microbes offers new avenues for cancer therapy and treatment efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Microbiology
- Immunology
Background:
- The human microbiome is recognized as an emerging hallmark of cancer.
- Research is rapidly evolving on the role of microbes in cancer development and progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current understanding of the microbiome's role in cancer.
- To highlight the potential of microbiome manipulation in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature on cancer and the microbiome.
- Analysis of research on microbial carcinogenicity and immune modulation.
Main Results:
- Microbes can be directly carcinogenic.
- Microbes influence host immune responses, promoting malignancy.
- Microbial presence affects anticancer therapy efficacy.
Conclusions:
- The microbiome is a critical factor in cancer.
- Targeting the microbiome presents a promising strategy for improving cancer outcomes and therapeutic responses.
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