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The Knowledge Gap in Gut Microbiome Characterization in Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer Patients: A Systematic Scoping
Rita Gomes de Sousa1, Catarina Sousa Guerreiro2,3,4, Inês Santos3,4
1Gastroenterology Department, Hospital da Luz Lisboa, 1500-650 Lisboa, Portugal.
Cancers
|June 13, 2025
Summary
Early-onset colorectal cancer (EoCRC) is linked to altered gut microbiome diversity and specific bacterial abundances like Fusobacterium. More research is needed to understand these gut microbiome changes and their impact on EoCRC development and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Rising incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer (EoCRC) necessitates understanding its causes.
- The gut microbiome is implicated in colorectal cancer development.
- Current evidence on gut microbiome in EoCRC requires systematic mapping.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize evidence on gut microbiome characterization in EoCRC.
- To compare gut microbiome profiles of EoCRC patients with late-onset colorectal cancer (LoCRC) and healthy individuals.
- To identify knowledge gaps and guide future research in EoCRC microbiome.
Main Methods:
- Systematic scoping review following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology.
- Searches conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus.
- Independent screening and data extraction by two reviewers.
Main Results:
- EoCRC patients exhibit lower alpha diversity and altered beta diversity compared to healthy individuals.
- Specific bacteria like *Fusobacterium*, *Akkermansia*, and *Bacteroides* are more abundant in EoCRC.
- Limited studies suggest associations between specific bacteria, tumor location, BMI, and survival outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Significant knowledge gaps exist regarding gut microbiota in EoCRC.
- Need for large, robust studies linking gut microbiota with clinicopathological and molecular features.
- Standardized methodologies are crucial for future EoCRC microbiome research.
