Current Understanding of Microbiomes in Cancer Metastasis

Abstract

Cancer has been the first killer that threatens people’s lives and health. Despite recent improvements in cancer treatment, metastasis continues to be the main reason for death from cancer. The functions of microbiome in cancer metastasis have been studied recently, and it is proved that microbiome can influence tumor metastasis, as well as positive or negative responses to therapy. Here, we summarize the mechanisms of microorganisms affecting cancer metastasis, which include epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), immunity, fluid shear stress (FSS), and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). This review will not only give a further understanding of relationship between microbiome and cancer metastasis, but also provide a new perspective for the microbiome’s application in cancer metastasis prevention, early detection, and treatment.

Exploring the Role of the Gut and Intratumoral Microbiomes in Tumor Progression and Metastasis

“…As previously shown, Helicobacter pylori supports the remodulation of actin filaments, which results in EMT onset [12,13]. In addition, specific microbes within the microbiome contribute to tumor cell adaptation to specific biochemical factors in the tumor microenvironment during metastatic processes [8].…”

“…According to the findings, the highly organized distribution of bacteria within tumors affects immune and epithelial cell functions, leading to disease progression [7]. Studies reported that specific microorganisms might affect metastatic processes, including EMT, resistance to fluid shear stress, immune system modulation, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) regulation [8]. EMT-related pathways might be regulated by specific microbial pathogens [9,10].…”

A perspective on emerging therapies in metastatic colorectal cancer: Focusing on molecular medicine and drug resistance

“…Due to the conflicting reported findings in research based on renal cell carcinoma that claim an ambiguous function for antibiotics in VEGF-blockade treatment, the impact of the microbiota on anti-VEGF medicines is still up for dispute. 143,144…”

Hypoxia-Activated Theragnostic Prodrugs (HATPs): Current State and Future Perspectives

“…Utilizing a slightly different approach than the above-mentioned examples, Sanu Karan et al published an HATP, named NR-NO 2 , that can visualize the solid tumor and treat bacterial infections [ 45 ]. The idea was predicated on the notion that bacteria are intimately linked to cancer resistance and metastasis [ 46 , 47 , 48 ]. Specifically, NR-NO 2 includes a central core molecule that is decorated with a hypoxia-reactive moiety, a fluorescent probe, and an antibiotic agent.…”