The Gut Microbiome and Colorectal Cancer: From Association to Causation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66505/cbtt.v1i2.40Keywords:
colorectal cancer, gut microbiome, Fusobacterium nucleatum, tumor microenvironment, immunotherapy sensitivity, microbiome-based biomarkersAbstract
This mini-review discusses the emerging role of the gut microbiome as an active driver of colorectal cancer initiation, progression, and therapeutic response. Key mechanisms include microbiome-induced genomic instability, modulation of host immune responses, and epigenetic reprogramming mediated by tumor-associated bacteria such as Fusobacterium nucleatum. Emerging evidence suggests that specific microbial signatures are not only associated with disease but can functionally shape tumor behavior, influence treatment sensitivity, and serve as clinically actionable biomarkers. These insights highlight the potential of integrating microbiome profiling into precision oncology and underscore the need for mechanistic and translational studies to harness host–microbe interactions for improved cancer prevention and therapy.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ajay Goel, Toshiaki Takahashi
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Center for Cancer Research
Grant numbers CA181572; CA184792; CA187956; CA214254; CA271443; CA296639
