Genotoxic Bacteria and Oncogenic Viruses in Colorectal Cancer: Evidence, Gaps, and a Proposed Interaction Model

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Oncology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health issue.
• Microbes, including genotoxic bacteria (e.g., Escherichia coli) and potentially oncogenic viruses (e.g., JC polyomavirus), are implicated in CRC pathogenesis.
• These microbes produce virulence factors that cause DNA damage, genomic instability, and inflammation, key drivers of cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current evidence on the interactions between bacteria and viruses in the colon microbiome.
• To explore the potential genotoxic collaboration between these microbes in colorectal tumorigenesis.
• To identify future research directions, novel biomarkers, and therapeutic targets for CRC.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and evidence synthesis.
• Analysis of existing research on bacterial genotoxins and oncogenic viruses in colorectal tissues.
• Exploration of proposed molecular mechanisms, including DNA damage-induced stress and signaling pathways (NF-κB, ATM).

Main Results:

• Genotoxic bacteria can induce DNA damage and inflammation, contributing to carcinogenesis.
• Oncogenic viruses are detected in colorectal tissues and influence host cell processes.
• Emerging evidence suggests bacterial genotoxins may trigger reactivation or transcriptional activity of persistent viruses like JCPyV and EBV.

Conclusions:

• Interactions between oncogenic viruses and bacteria in the colon microbiome are underexplored but potentially significant for CRC development.
• Genotoxic collaboration between bacteria and viruses may represent a novel mechanism in colorectal tumorigenesis.
• Further research into these interactions is crucial for developing innovative biomarkers and therapeutic strategies for CRC prevention and treatment.