Could Neisseria gonorrhoeae have carcinogenic potential? A critical review of current evidence
Alexander Ngoo1,2,3,4, Evgeny A Semchenko5, Anthony Atack1,3,4
1School of Biomedical Sciences at Translational Research Institute (TRI), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
Abstract:
There is growing evidence that microbial dysbiosis is intimately related to carcinogenesis across several types of human cancer. Neisseria gonorrhoeae is best known for causing acute exudative genitourinary infection in males. N. gonorrhoeae can also cause chronic, asymptomatic infection of the female genitourinary tract along with the oropharynx and rectum of both sexes. Epidemiological studies suggest that N. gonorrhoeae is an independent risk factor for cancer of the anus, bladder, cervix, prostate, and oropharynx. It is not clear however if this association is causal. The purpose of this review is to appraise epidemiological, experimental, and clinical data in order to understand the possible carcinogenic potential of this sexually transmitted bacterium.
Insights
Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a common bacterium, may increase the risk of developing certain cancers. Further research is needed to confirm if this sexually transmitted infection directly causes cancer.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Microbial dysbiosis is increasingly linked to various human cancers.
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae typically causes genitourinary infections but can lead to chronic infections in other sites.
- Epidemiological data suggest N. gonorrhoeae as a risk factor for several cancers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review epidemiological, experimental, and clinical evidence.
- To evaluate the potential carcinogenic role of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Main Methods:
- Appraisal of existing scientific literature.
- Analysis of epidemiological studies.
- Examination of experimental and clinical data.
Main Results:
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae is associated with increased risk for cancers of the anus, bladder, cervix, prostate, and oropharynx.
- The causal relationship between N. gonorrhoeae infection and cancer remains undetermined.
Conclusions:
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae's role in carcinogenesis requires further investigation.
- Understanding the bacterium's carcinogenic potential is crucial for public health.
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