Altered Microbiome Promotes Pro-Inflammatory Pathways in Oesophago-Gastric Tumourigenesis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Microbiology
• Oncology

Background:

• The upper gastrointestinal microbiome plays vital roles in digestion, vitamin synthesis, and pathogen defense.
• Alterations in microbial composition, known as dysbiosis, are linked to various diseases, including oesophago-gastric carcinoma.
• Factors like age, medications, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) can induce dysbiosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current evidence on the microbiome's role in oesophago-gastric tumourigenesis.
• To examine causes of dysbiosis and their association with cancer development.
• To describe pro-inflammatory pathways involved in tumourigenesis and their interaction with the microbiome.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of existing literature was performed.
• Evidence on the microbiome's contribution to oesophago-gastric cancer was elucidated.
• Key pro-inflammatory pathways and their interaction with microbial communities were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Microbial dysbiosis is associated with oesophago-gastric cancer development.
• This association may involve the activation of pro-inflammatory pathways, the inflammasome, and the innate immune system.
• 16S rRNA gene sequencing advances allow for detailed analysis of microbial genera implicated in tumourigenesis.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the microbiota's influence on oesophago-gastric tumourigenesis is crucial.
• This knowledge can lead to improved early detection of malignancy.
• It may also facilitate the development of novel systemic therapies, enhancing patient survival rates.