Microbiome-derived metabolites in cancer-associated anemia: An underexplored mechanistic link

The review by Bangolo et al highlights the role of the gut microbiome in cancer-associated anemia (CAA). However, the impact of microbiome-derived metabolites is underexplored. In this letter, we focus on short-chain fatty acids, tryptophan metabolites, and polyamines as key mediators linking dysbiosis to impaired erythropoiesis and iron homeostasis. We also propose a research framework that integrates multi-omics analysis and gnotobiotic models. Finally, we discuss the clinical potential of metabolite-based diagnostics and microbiome-targeted therapies in managing CAA.