Microbiota dysbiosis triggers intestinal cancer stemness
Scientists at National Taiwan University have identified a link between gut microbiota dysbiosis and the development of colorectal cancer. The research suggests that specific gene mutations can trigger an imbalance in gut bacteria, leading to the growth of invasive pathogens that promote tumor formation.
Why it matters
Understanding the role of the microbiome in cancer development offers new potential pathways for therapeutic interventions and early detection strategies for colon cancer.
edited by Lisa Lock , reviewed by Andrew Zinin
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Add as preferred source Credit: National Taiwan University Scientists at National Taiwan University College of Medicine have discovered that cancer formation is not simply caused by gene mutations. Colorectal cancers primarily originate from epithelial cells that form adenocarcinomas at the interface between the host and microbiota. In addition to genetic mutations, the trillions of microbes in the gut environment, termed microbiota or microbiome, play important roles in cancer development. The microbiome is now regarded as a promising therapeutic target, in addition to controlling host factors, for managing colon cancer.
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