The role of microbiome in colorectal carcinogenesis and its clinical potential as a target for cancer treatment

Abstract

The role of gut microbiome-intestinal immune complex in the development of colorectal cancer and its progression is well re-cognized. Accordingly, certain microbial strains tend to colonize or vanish in patients with colorectal cancer. Probiotics, pre-biotics, and synbiotics are expected to exhibit both anti-tumor effects and chemopreventive effects during cancer treatment through mechanisms such as xenometabolism, immune interactions, and altered eco-community. Microbial modulation can also be safely used to prevent complications during peri-operational periods of colorectal surgery. A deeper understanding of the role of intestinal microbiota as a target for colorectal cancer treatment will lead the way to a better prognosis for colorectal cancer patients.