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Exploiting the gut microbiome for brain tumour treatment
Lily Keane1, John F Cryan1, Jack P Gleeson2
1APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
Trends in Molecular Medicine
|September 10, 2024
Summary
The gut microbiome influences brain tumour development, particularly aggressive high-grade gliomas. Understanding the gut-brain axis is crucial for developing personalized cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Microbiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- The gut microbiome is increasingly linked to various diseases, including cancer.
- The gut-brain axis, a communication pathway between the gut and brain, is implicated in brain tumour pathology.
- High-grade gliomas are aggressive brain tumours influenced by the gut microbiome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on the gut microbiome-brain tumour connection.
- To emphasize the impact on the glioma tumour microenvironment.
- To explore the potential of gut-brain axis signals in cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating the gut microbiome and brain tumours.
- Analysis of research focusing on high-grade gliomas and their microenvironment.
- Discussion of therapeutic strategies targeting the gut-brain axis.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports a link between the gut microbiome and brain tumour development.
- The gut microbiome influences the glioma tumour microenvironment.
- Gut-brain axis signals may enhance therapeutic responses.
Conclusions:
- Patient-specific microbiome profiles are essential for personalized treatment approaches.
- Targeting the gut-brain axis offers potential for improved glioma treatment.
- Future cancer therapies may need to incorporate microbiome analysis for efficacy.
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