Understanding the Role of Candida Abicans in the Development of Cancer Cells, its Progression Mechanism, Possible Preventive Measures and Treatment

Abstract

As a common human commensal fungus, Candida albicans may play an active part in cancer progression rather than just being present by chance in people who have cancer. A lot of research has shown that having Candida albicans in your body can make you more likely to get oral, esophageal, intestinal, and maybe even skin cancers. But more research needs to be done to find out exactly how this opportunistic pathogen adds to the development of cancer. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current data and possible ways that Candida albicans may be linked to cancer. The fungus may help tumors grow by using its cytochrome system to make DNA-damaging benzopyrene molecules. In addition, it can change the immune system by causing inflammation while blocking antitumor reactions. Candida albicans is a dimorphic fungus, which means it can change between yeast forms with only one cell and hyphal forms that invade host cells and help them spread. The pathogen may be protected by its biofilms, which may change the native microbiota makeup in ways that make people more likely to get cancer. Infected tissues could also have oncogenic signaling turned on by fungus virulence factors. Assuming that the link between Candida and cancer is a direct one, Candida albicans could be a useful way to tell which people are most likely to get cancer. Taking aim at the fungus is also a fresh way to make present cancer treatments better. But well-planned prospective clinical studies are still needed to make sure that the results of research on associations and animal models are correct. Getting clear on the molecular processes will help us understand how tumors grow and find new ways to treat them that focus on how the host and pathogen interact.