Cancer pharmacomicrobiomics: Targeting microbiota to optimise cancer therapy outcomes Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
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Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Microbes
Microbes
Microbes, short for microorganisms, are tiny living organisms that are ubiquitous in the environment, including on and inside the human body. They play a crucial role in human health and disease, functioning within complex ecosystems in various parts of the body, such as the skin, mouth, gut, and respiratory tract. The human microbiome, which is […]
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
The article delves into the role of gut microbiota in modulating cancer therapy outcomes. It explores how microbiota affects the efficacy and toxicity of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). The study focuses on the interactions between gut bacteria and drug metabolism, as well as their influence on immune system responses to therapy.
Who was studied?
The review synthesizes findings from preclinical studies, clinical trials, and patient data across various cancer types and treatments. It examines the interactions between different microbiota and cancer therapies like chemotherapy (e.g., irinotecan, 5-fluorouracil, cyclophosphamide) and ICIs, investigating the microbial mechanisms that contribute to treatment efficacy and resistance.
Most important findings
The review reveals that gut microbiota plays a significant role in cancer treatment outcomes by influencing both the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cancer drugs. For instance, certain bacteria, such as Fusobacterium nucleatum, can induce chemoresistance, while others, like Enterococcus hirae, can enhance immune responses and improve treatment efficacy. Moreover, microbiota modulation, through methods like probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), has shown promise in optimizing cancer therapies, although results have been inconsistent. Additionally, antibiotic use during cancer treatment can disrupt microbiota, potentially lowering treatment effectiveness.
Key implications
The article emphasizes the potential of microbiota as a predictive biomarker for cancer treatment responses, suggesting that understanding microbial interactions with therapies can lead to more personalized treatment strategies. It also highlights that microbiota modulation could optimize cancer therapy, particularly in cases where chemotherapy or immunotherapy is less effective. However, further research is necessary to confirm these findings and establish safe, effective microbiota modulation practices for cancer patients.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that offer significant health benefits when administered in adequate amounts. They primarily work by modulating the gut microbiome, supporting a balanced microbial ecosystem. Probiotics have been shown to improve gut health, modulate immune responses, and even influence metabolic and mental health disorders. With growing evidence supporting their therapeutic potential, probiotics are increasingly recognized for their role in treating conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), and even mental health conditions like depression and anxiety through their impact on the gut-brain axis.
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT)
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) involves transferring fecal bacteria from a healthy donor to a patient to restore microbiome balance.