Gut Microbiome-Colorectal Cancer Relationship

Area of Science:

• Microbiome research
• Gastroenterology
• Oncology

Background:

• Gut dysbiosis is increasingly linked to various pathologies beyond Clostridioides difficile infection.
• Recent research highlights the gut microbiome's significant role in colorectal cancer (CRC) development, challenging traditional views focused on genetic mutations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the association between the gut microbiome and colorectal cancer.
• To explore the impact of gut bacteria on cancer progression and response to antineoplastic therapies.
• To discuss the potential of fecal microbiota transplantation in CRC management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on gut microbiome, colorectal cancer, and cancer therapies.
• Analysis of research identifying specific bacterial consortia involved in CRC.
• Examination of findings on microbiome's influence on chemotherapy and immunotherapy response.

Main Results:

• Specific bacterial groups promote a pro-inflammatory environment and genotoxin production, contributing to CRC induction and progression.
• Gut microbiome alterations affect patient responses to chemotherapy and immunotherapy, influencing prognosis.
• Certain bacteria serve as biomarkers for predicting the effectiveness of antineoplastic drugs.

Conclusions:

• The gut microbiome is a critical factor in colorectal cancer pathogenesis and treatment.
• Targeting the gut microbiome offers a novel strategy for improving CRC outcomes and therapy response.
• Fecal microbiota transplantation is an emerging therapeutic approach for colorectal cancer management.