Intratumor microbiota: a novel tumor component.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Oncology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Bacteria have been observed in tumors for over a century.
• Research has been limited by experimental irreproducibility and technological constraints.
• The focus has primarily been on gut microbiota, neglecting intratumor microbes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the emerging role of intratumor microbiota in cancer.
• To highlight the impact of intratumor microbes on carcinogenesis and cancer treatment.
• To guide future research and therapeutic strategies for cancer patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature.
• Analysis of studies employing advanced molecular techniques like macrogenomics, metabolomics, and macrotranscriptomics.
• Synthesis of findings on host-microorganism interactions within tumors.

Main Results:

• Increasing evidence identifies symbiotic microbiota within various tumors.
• Intratumor microbiota are gaining recognition for their potential influence on cancer.
• Molecular tools are enabling a deeper understanding of these complex relationships.

Conclusions:

• The intratumor microbiota represents a significant, understudied factor in cancer.
• Further research is crucial to elucidate their precise roles in cancer progression and treatment response.
• Targeting intratumor microbes may offer novel therapeutic strategies and improve patient outcomes.