Microbiome-targeted therapeutics in head & neck cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Microbiology
• Immunology

Background:

• The oral microbiome plays a crucial role in head and neck cancer (HNC) development, progression, and treatment response.
• Microbial dysbiosis in the oral cavity is linked to chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and the production of carcinogenic metabolites, influencing the tumor microenvironment.
• Specific bacteria (e.g., Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum) and fungi (e.g., Candida albicans) are implicated in oral carcinogenesis, while certain commensals may reduce cancer risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize current evidence on the role of oral microbiome dysbiosis in head and neck cancer.
• To review emerging microbiome-targeted therapeutic strategies for HNC.
• To explore the potential clinical relevance of these interventions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating the oral microbiome in HNC.
• Analysis of research on microbial dysbiosis and its contribution to oral carcinogenesis.
• Evaluation of microbiome-targeted interventions such as probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, dietary modulation, and fecal microbiota transplantation.

Main Results:

• Microbial dysbiosis contributes to HNC through inflammation, immune modulation, and carcinogenic metabolite production.
• Certain oral microorganisms promote tumorigenesis by activating pathways like NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin.
• Commensal species may offer protection, suggesting a link between microbial homeostasis and reduced HNC risk.

Conclusions:

• Microbiome-targeted therapies, including probiotics (e.g., Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium), show promise as adjuncts to conventional HNC treatment.
• These interventions aim to restore microbial balance, enhance anti-tumor immunity, mitigate treatment toxicities, and improve patient quality of life and adherence.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the clinical potential of microbiome modulation in HNC management.