Title:Cancer Microbiome; Opportunities and Challenges
Volume: 21
Issue: 2
Author(s): Srivathsa Nallanchakravarthula, Narayanappa Amruta and Chitteti Ramamurthy*
Affiliation:
- C.G. Bhakta Institute of Biotechnology, UkaTarsadia University, Maliba campus, Bardoli Surat (Dist), Gujarat,India
Keywords:
Cancer, microbiome, tumor microenvironment, metabolic plasticity, probiotics, therapeutics.
Abstract:
Background: Microbe-host association has emerged as a modulator in modern
medicine. Cancer and its associated host microbes are collectively referred to as the cancer microbiome.
The cancer microbiome is complex, and many aspects remain unclear including metabolic
plasticity, microenvironment remodeling, cellular communications, and unique signatures within
the host, all of which have a vital role in homeostasis and pathogenesis of host physiology. However,
the role of the microbiome in cancer initiation, progression, and therapy is still poorly understood
and remains to be explored.
Objective: The objective of this review is to elucidate the role of the microbiome in cancer
metabolism and the tumor microenvironment. It also focuses on the importance of therapeutic opportunities
and challenges in the manipulation of the cancer microbiome.
Methods: A literature search was conducted on the role of the microbiome in cancer initiation, progression,
and therapy.
Conclusion: The tumor microenvironment and cancer metabolism are significant in host-microbiome
interactions. The microbiome can modulate standard cancer therapies like chemotherapy
and immunotherapy. Microbiome transplantation has also been demonstrated as an effective therapy
against cancer. Furthermore, the modulation of the microbiome also has potential clinical outcomes
in modern medicine.