The Gut-Adipose-Tumor Axis in Obesity-Related Cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Microbiome Research
• Metabolic Syndrome

Background:

• The global obesity epidemic is a significant risk factor for cancer incidence and mortality.
• The gut-adipose-tumor axis is increasingly recognized as a key mediator in obesity-related carcinogenesis.
• This axis involves intricate crosstalk between the gut microbiome, adipose tissue, and the tumor microenvironment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the gut-adipose-tumor axis.
• To explore its epidemiological, pathophysiological, and therapeutic implications.
• To identify future research directions for obesity-related cancers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing current evidence on the gut-adipose-tumor axis.
• Analysis of the mechanisms linking obesity, gut dysbiosis, adipose tissue dysfunction, and cancer progression.
• Examination of therapeutic strategies targeting this axis.

Main Results:

• Obesity-induced gut dysbiosis promotes systemic inflammation and alters metabolite profiles.
• Dysfunctional adipose tissue, influenced by gut signals, exacerbates chronic inflammation and secretes cancer-promoting mediators.
• The combined effects create a pro-carcinogenic environment that impacts the tumor microenvironment.

Conclusions:

• The gut-adipose-tumor axis is a critical integrated system in obesity-related carcinogenesis.
• Targeting this axis presents novel opportunities for cancer prevention and treatment strategies.
• Further research is crucial for elucidating mechanisms and developing effective therapies for obesity-related cancers.