Implication of gut microbiome in immunotherapy for colorectal cancer

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) constitutes the third most frequently reported malignancy in the male population and the second most common in women in the last two decades. Colon carcinogenesis is a complex, multifactorial event, resulting from genetic and epigenetic aberrations, the impact of environmental factors, as well as the disturbance of the gut microbial ecosystem. The relationship between the intestinal microbiome and carcinogenesis was relatively undervalued in the last decade. However, its remarkable effect on metabolic and immune functions on the host has been in the spotlight as of recent years. There is a strong relationship between gut microbiome dysbiosis, bowel pathogenicity and responsiveness to anti-cancer treatment; including immunotherapy. Modifications of bacteriome consistency are closely associated with the immunologic response to immunotherapeutic agents. This condition that implies the necessity of gut microbiome manipulation. Thus, creatingan optimal response for CRC patients to immunotherapeutic agents. In this paper, we will review the current literature observing how gut microbiota influence the response of immunotherapy on CRC patients.

The role of immunotherapy in microsatellites stable metastatic colorectal cancer: state of the art and future perspectives

“…In particular, an important role of Bacteroides species in immunostimulatory modulation of CTLA-4 blockade has been identified, while Akkermansia, Faecalibacterium, Clostridiale and Bifidobacterium spp seem to be associated with PD-L1 inhibitors ( 88 ). Since resistance to immunotherapy is difficult to overcome, manipulating the gut microbiota could represent a promising strategy ( 92 ).…”

The influence of gut microbiota on immunotherapy for Colorectal Cancer

“…Moreover, recent studies have demonstrated that the composition and diversity of the microbiome can impact the efficacy and toxicity of immunotherapeutic treatments. [20,21] Thus, this review provides an analysis of the direct association between the microbiota and colorectal cancer, examining its role in carcinogenesis and its impact on CRC immunotherapy. Additionally, the article discusses the potential of manipulating the microbiota in medicine to improve patient outcomes, enhance immunotherapy effectiveness, and improve the quality of life for individuals with cancer.…”