Intestinal microbiota: A bridge between intermittent fasting and tumors

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Oncology
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Intestinal microbiota and metabolites are crucial for gut health, immunity, and inflammatory regulation.
• Gut microbiota composition is linked to cancer development and treatment efficacy.
• Intermittent fasting (IF) shows potential in improving metabolism, lifespan, and disease progression, including cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of intestinal microbiota in various tumors.
• To summarize the impact of intermittent fasting (IF) on intestinal microbiota.
• To discuss the potential of IF and gut microbiota as a combined anti-tumor strategy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing current research on intestinal microbiota, IF, and cancer.
• Analysis of mechanisms by which IF affects tumor cell metabolism and immune response.
• Examination of how IF alters gut microbial composition and function.

Main Results:

• IF influences tumor cell energy metabolism, inhibits growth, and enhances anti-tumor immunity.
• IF significantly alters the intestinal microbiota's composition and metabolic activities.
• A complex interplay exists between IF, the gut microbiome, and tumor suppressive effects.

Conclusions:

• Intermittent fasting (IF) shows promise as a cancer intervention strategy through its effects on the gut microbiota.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms and optimize clinical applications.
• Combining IF with modulation of the intestinal microbiota may offer novel therapeutic approaches for cancer.