Bacteriological Identification, Characterization and Changes of Feces Microbiome in Prostate Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy

To investigate the bacteriological characteristics of the gut microbiome in patients with prostate cancer and changes during and after radiation therapy.

Forty-one prostate cancer (PCa) patients treated with radiation therapy were included in the study. Fecal samples were collected at three points: before gold marker implantation into the prostate gland (K1), at the start (K2), and last day of radiotherapy (K3). Microbial identification was performed using MALDI-TOF MS, which allowed for precise identification at the species and genus levels. Blood biochemical parameters were assessed, and correlation analyses were performed.

In total, 291 microbial isolates were identified, with the most common genera being Escherichia (N=120), Streptococcus (N=31), and Enterococcus (N=30). A significant decrease in E. coli was observed in K3 compared with K1 and K2, whereas Citrobacter appeared exclusively at K2. Additionally, liver enzyme levels decreased, and IL-6 levels increased during treatment. These findings indicate significant shifts in the gut microbiota due to radiotherapy.

Radiation therapy alters the gut microbiota composition in patients with PCa, reduces microbial diversity, and promotes the growth of opportunistic pathogens. These changes are linked to biochemical parameters, suggesting a potential impact on health. Further research is needed to explore microbiome-targeted interventions during treatment.