The role of key gut microbial metabolites in the development and treatment of cancer Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Microbes
Microbes
Microbes are microscopic organisms living in and on the human body, shaping health through digestion, vitamin production, and immune protection. When microbial balance is disrupted, disease can occur. This guide explains key microbe types—bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and archaea—plus major pathogenic and beneficial examples.
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Short-chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)
Short-chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)
Short-chain fatty acids are microbially derived metabolites that regulate epithelial integrity, immune signaling, and microbial ecology. Their production patterns and mechanistic roles provide essential functional markers within microbiome signatures and support the interpretation of MBTIs, MMAs, and systems-level microbial shifts across clinical conditions.
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
The review focuses on the role of gut microbial metabolites in cancer development and treatment. It highlights the complex interaction between gut microbiota, their metabolites, and the host’s immune system, emphasizing how these metabolites can both inhibit and promote carcinogenesis. Specific metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bacteriocins, and phenylpropanoid-derived compounds were explored for their potential anticancer activities. The review also discusses pro-carcinogenic metabolites like secondary bile acids, which can contribute to cancer progression through mechanisms such as inflammation and oxidative stress.
Who was studied?
The review examines existing studies, including in vitro and in vivo research on the effects of gut microbial metabolites on various cancers, including colorectal, breast, liver, and head and neck cancers. It evaluates the impacts of dietary patterns and microbiota composition on cancer risk and progression. The studies investigated range from clinical observations to animal models, focusing on the effects of microbial fermentation products like SCFAs and secondary bile acids on tumor growth, immune modulation, and inflammation.
Most important findings
Gut microbial metabolites, particularly SCFAs like butyrate, exhibit anticancer properties by promoting apoptosis, inhibiting cell proliferation, and modulating immune responses. However, metabolites like secondary bile acids can promote carcinogenesis by increasing oxidative stress and inflammation. The balance between these metabolites plays a crucial role in cancer risk, especially in colorectal cancer (CRC). Diets high in protein and fat can favor the production of harmful metabolites, whereas diets rich in fiber support the production of beneficial SCFAs, reducing cancer risk. Additionally, bacteriocins, antimicrobial peptides produced by certain gut bacteria, showed cytotoxic effects against cancer cells, suggesting their potential as novel therapeutic agents.
Key implications
This review underscores the importance of gut microbial metabolites in cancer prevention and therapy. While SCFAs and bacteriocins offer promise as therapeutic agents, the pro-carcinogenic effects of secondary bile acids highlight the need for further research on how to balance these metabolites for optimal health outcomes. The integration of diet-based interventions and microbiota modulation could become a key strategy in cancer prevention and treatment, especially when combined with traditional therapies. Future clinical studies are required to refine these approaches and develop more targeted cancer treatments that harness the microbiome’s potential.
Short-chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)
Short-chain fatty acids are microbially derived metabolites that regulate epithelial integrity, immune signaling, and microbial ecology. Their production patterns and mechanistic roles provide essential functional markers within microbiome signatures and support the interpretation of MBTIs, MMAs, and systems-level microbial shifts across clinical conditions.
Short-chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)
Short-chain fatty acids are microbially derived metabolites that regulate epithelial integrity, immune signaling, and microbial ecology. Their production patterns and mechanistic roles provide essential functional markers within microbiome signatures and support the interpretation of MBTIs, MMAs, and systems-level microbial shifts across clinical conditions.
Short-chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)
Short-chain fatty acids are microbially derived metabolites that regulate epithelial integrity, immune signaling, and microbial ecology. Their production patterns and mechanistic roles provide essential functional markers within microbiome signatures and support the interpretation of MBTIs, MMAs, and systems-level microbial shifts across clinical conditions.
Short-chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)
Short-chain fatty acids are microbially derived metabolites that regulate epithelial integrity, immune signaling, and microbial ecology. Their production patterns and mechanistic roles provide essential functional markers within microbiome signatures and support the interpretation of MBTIs, MMAs, and systems-level microbial shifts across clinical conditions.