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Decoding the microbiome-immune crosstalk in cancer: from mechanisms to therapeutic translation

Ning Zhao1,2, Liang Wu3, Sha Peng1

  • 1Department of Surgical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.

Biomarker Research
|May 28, 2026
PubMed

Insights

The gut microbiome significantly impacts cancer immunotherapy effectiveness. Modifying gut bacteria shows promise for enhancing antitumor immunity and treatment outcomes, despite challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • The gut microbiome is crucial for host immunity and cancer immunotherapy efficacy.
  • Microbial alterations can reprogram the tumor-immune microenvironment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of gut microbiota's influence on antitumor immunity.
  • To highlight clinical studies on microbiome-targeted cancer therapies.
  • To examine challenges and future directions in the field.

Main Methods:

  • Review of molecular and cellular mechanisms.
  • Analysis of recent clinical studies.
  • Examination of challenges and future directions.

Main Results:

  • Gut microbiota influences antitumor immunity through various mechanisms.
  • Microbiome interventions like FMT and probiotics show potential in enhancing immunotherapy.
  • Challenges include variability, colonization, delivery, and safety.

Conclusions:

  • Microbiome-targeted therapies offer a promising avenue for improving cancer immunotherapy.
  • Further research is needed for mechanistic insight, standardization, and integration with precision medicine.
Keywords:
Gut microbiotaImmunotherapy resistanceMicrobiota-targeted interventionTumor immune microenvironment

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