Gastrointestinal Disorders (Jun 2024)

Exploring the Role of the Gut Microbiota in Colorectal Cancer Development

  • Vlad Alexandru Ionescu,
  • Gina Gheorghe,
  • Teodor Florin Georgescu,
  • Vlad Buica,
  • Mihai-Stefan Catanescu,
  • Iris-Andreea Cercel,
  • Beatrice Budeanu,
  • Mihail Budan,
  • Nicolae Bacalbasa,
  • Camelia Diaconu

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/gidisord6020036
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 6, no. 2
pp. 526 – 537

Abstract

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Colorectal cancer is currently a public health concern due to its high incidence, morbidity, and mortality rates. Researchers have identified the intestinal microbiome as a crucial factor in the development of this disease. Currently, specialized literature data support the role of the microbiota in both the development of colorectal cancer and resistance to oncological therapies. Therefore, studying the composition of the gut microbiome can aid in creating risk assessment tools to identify specific populations that would benefit from tailored screening approaches. Also, manipulation of the intestinal microbiome can be useful in improving the response to chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Identifying the pathogenic mechanisms responsible for this causal link can aid in the discovery of novel treatment targets. This article will provide the latest information regarding the influence of the intestinal microbiota on the development and progression of colorectal cancer.

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