The role of gut microbiota in forming a response to immunotherapy of malignant neoplasms: problem state

Abstract

The modern concept of symbiotic relationship between the macroorganism and the gut microbiota is practically assured. The microbiota composition is primarily influenced by environmental factors, genetic and immune factors of the host organism. The gut dysbiosis can lead to the dominance of certain types of bacteria that promote the activation of carcinogenesis mechanisms and the development of malignant tumours of the colon due to chronic inflammation or local immunosuppression. The role of the intestinal microbiota in forming a response to the immunotherapy of malignant neoplasms is of great interest to the medical community in the era of immunooncology. Given that the gut microbiota composition is individual for each person, its examination fits nicely into the up-and-coming concept of a personalized medical approach.

Keywords

• intestinal microbiota
• immunotherapy
• checkpoint-inhibitors
• antibiotic therapy