Analyzing potential of next-generation probiotics in cancer management

This review examines the potential of next-generation probiotics (NGPs) in cancer treatment. It examines their modes of action, therapeutic safety, effectiveness, and the barriers to their integration into medical practice. With cancer incidence increasing worldwide, especially in resource-limited countries, NGPs including Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Butyricicoccus pullicaecorum enhance gut barrier integrity and suppress tumors by producing SCFAs like butyrate, supporting epithelial cells and immune responses while reducing CRC progression without toxicity. Akkermansia muciniphila and Lactococcus lactis MG1363 boost chemotherapy efficacy and immunity via JAK-STAT and Th17 pathways, increasing IFN-γ, IL-6, and TNF-α. Lacocaseibacillus casei and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens promote M1 macrophage polarization and reduce chronic inflammation by modulating NF-κB/STAT3. Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Bacteroides fragilis, and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus induce apoptosis and cell cycle arrest via MAPK downregulation, mTOR suppression, and caspase activation. Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Streptococcus salivarius aid cancer prevention by binding heterocyclic amines and reducing carcinogenic enzymes. Lacocaseibacillus casei, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and Bifidobacterium bifidum mitigate CRC by lowering oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. In contrast, Limosilactobacillus fermentum and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum enhance vincristine chemotherapy by reducing β-glucosidase activity and chemotherapy toxicity. Against Helicobacter pylori, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lacocaseibacillus casei L26, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis B94, and Bifidobacterium bifidum CP5 decrease IL-1β, increase IL-10, and inhibit bacterial adhesion, reducing ulcers and inflammation. However, challenges in NGP production include strain selection, survivability, scalability, and regulation. Successful commercialization requires advancements in culturing techniques, genome editing, and harmonized safety guidelines. Therefore, further research is needed to optimize clinical applications and ensure safety.