Cancer and the gut microbiota: an unexpected link

Abstract

Changes in the interactions among the gut microbiota, intestinal epithelium, and host immune system are associated with many diseases, including cancer. We discuss how environmental factors infuence this cross-talk during oncogenesis and tumor progression and how manipulations of the gut microbiota might improve the clinical activity of anticancer agents.

Conflict of interest statement

Competing interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1. Links between dysbiosis and cancer

(A) Mechanisms by which dysbiosis affects oncogenesis. (B) Detrimental and beneficial effects of dysbiosis on disease outcome. MAMP, microbe-associated molecular pattern.

Fig. 2. Links between the gut microbiota and anticancer therapy

Intestinal bacteria interact with chemo-, radio-, and immunotherapeutic anticancer agents in a bidirectional manner.