Akkermansia muciniphila Enhances the Antitumor Effect of Cisplatin in Lewis Lung Cancer Mice

The potential role of Akkermansia muciniphila in liver health

Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) is a 'star strain' that has attracted much attention in recent years. A. muciniphila can effectively regulate host metabolism, significantly affect host immune function, and play an important role in balancing host health and disease. As one of the organs most closely related to the gut (the two can communicate through the hepatic portal vein and bile duct system), liver is widely affected by intestinal microorganisms. A growing body of evidence suggests that A. muciniphila may alleviate liver-related diseases by improving the intestinal barrier, energy metabolism and regulating inflammation through its protein components and metabolites. This paper systematically reviews the key roles of A. muciniphila and its derivatives in maintaining liver health and improving liver disease.

Akkermansia muciniphila-derived pentadecanoic acid enhances oxaliplatin sensitivity in gastric cancer by modulating glycolysis

Accumulating evidence has proved the close association between alterations in gut microbiota and resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. However, the potential roles of gut microbiota in regulating oxaliplatin sensitivity in gastric cancer (GC) have not been investigated before. We first found that antibiotic treatment diminished the therapeutic efficacy of oxaliplatin in a GC mouse model. Importantly, this effect could be transmitted to germ-free mice via fecal microbiota transplantation, indicating a potential role of gut microbiota modulation in oxaliplatin efficacy. Further, metagenomics data showed that Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) ranked first among the bacterial species with decreased relative abundances after antibiotic treatment. Metabolically active A. muciniphila promotes oxaliplatin efficacy. As shown by metabolomics analysis, the metabolic pattern of gut microbiota was disrupted with significantly downregulated levels of pentadecanoic acid (PEA), and the use of PEA significantly promoted oxaliplatin efficacy. Mechanistically, FUBP1 positively regulated aerobic glycolysis of GC cells to hinder the therapeutic efficacy of oxaliplatin. A. muciniphila-derived PEA functioned as an inhibitory factor of glycolysis by directly antagonizing the activity of FUBP1, which potentiated GC responses to oxaliplatin. Our research suggested a key role for intestinal A. muciniphila and its metabolite PEA in promoting oxaliplatin efficacy, thus providing a new perspective for probiotic and prebiotic intervention in GC patients during chemotherapy.

Metabolic heterogeneity in tumor microenvironment - A novel landmark for immunotherapy

The surrounding non-cancer cells and tumor cells that make up the tumor microenvironment (TME) have various metabolic rhythms. TME metabolic heterogeneity is influenced by the intricate network of metabolic control within and between cells. DNA, protein, transport, and microbial levels are important regulators of TME metabolic homeostasis. The effectiveness of immunotherapy is also closely correlated with alterations in TME metabolism. The response of a tumor patient to immunotherapy is influenced by a variety of variables, including intracellular metabolic reprogramming, metabolic interaction between cells, ecological changes within and between tumors, and general dietary preferences. Although immunotherapy and targeted therapy have made great strides, their use in the accurate identification and treatment of tumors still has several limitations. The function of TME metabolic heterogeneity in tumor immunotherapy is summarized in this article. It focuses on how metabolic heterogeneity develops and is regulated as a tumor progresses, the precise molecular mechanisms and potential clinical significance of imbalances in intracellular metabolic homeostasis and intercellular metabolic coupling and interaction, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of targeted metabolism used in conjunction with immunotherapy. This offers insightful knowledge and important implications for individualized tumor patient diagnosis and treatment plans in the future.

Akkermansia muciniphila outer membrane protein regulates recruitment of CD8+ T cells in lung adenocarcinoma and through JAK-STAT signalling pathway

As a Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium, Akkermansia muciniphila (AKK) participates in the immune response in many cancers. Our study focused on the factors and molecular mechanisms of AKK affecting immune escape in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). We cultured AKK bacteria, prepared AKK outer membrane protein Amuc_1100 and constructed a subcutaneous graft tumour mouse model. A549, NCI-H1395 cells and mice were respectively treated with inactivated AKK, Amuc_1100, Ruxolitinib (JAK inhibitor) and RO8191 (JAK activator). CD8+ T cells that penetrated the membrane were counted in the Transwell assay. The toxicity of CD8+ T cells was evaluated by lactate dehydrogenase assay. Western blot was applied to determine JAK/STAT-related protein and PD-L1 expression, whilst CCL5, granzyme B and INF-γ expression were assessed through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The proportion of tumour-infiltrating CD8+ T cells and the levels of granzyme B and INF-γ were determined by flow cytometry. AKK markedly accelerated A549 and NCI-H1395 recruiting CD8+ T cells and enhanced CD8+ T cell toxicity. Amuc_1100 purified from AKK exerted the same promoting effects. Besides, Amuc_1100 dramatically suppressed PD-L1, p-STAT and p-JAK expression and enhanced CCL5, granzyme B and INF-γ expression. Treatment with Ruxolitinib accelerated A549 and NCI-H1395 cells recruiting CD8+ T cells, enhanced CD8+ T cell toxicity, CCL5, granzyme B and INF-γ expression, and inhibited PD-L1 expression. In contrast, the RO8191 treatment slowed down the changes induced by Amuc_1100. Animal experiments showed that Amuc_1100 was found to increase the number of tumour-infiltrating CD8+ T cells, increase the levels of granzyme B and INF-γ and significantly inhibit the expression of PD-L1, p-STAT and p-JAK, which exerted an antitumour effect in vivo. In conclusion, through inhibiting the JAK/STAT signalling pathway, AKK outer membrane protein facilitated the recruitment of CD8+ T cells in LUAD and suppressed the immune escape of cells.

Influence of Gut Microbiota-Mediated Immune Regulation on Response to Chemotherapy

The involvement of the gut microbiota in anti-cancer treatment has gained increasing attention. Alterations to the structure and function of the gut bacteria are important factors in the development of cancer as well as the efficacy of chemotherapy. Recent studies have confirmed that the gut microbiota and related metabolites influence the pharmacological activity of chemotherapeutic agents through interactions with the immune system. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge of how malignant tumor and chemotherapy affect the gut microbiota, how the gut microbiota regulates host immune response, and how interactions between the gut microbiota and host immune response influence the efficacy of chemotherapy. Recent advances in strategies for increasing the efficiency of chemotherapy based on the gut microbiota are also described. Deciphering the complex homeostasis maintained by the gut microbiota and host immunity provides a solid scientific basis for bacterial intervention in chemotherapy.

Akkermania muciniphila: a rising star in tumor immunology

Tumor is accompanied by complex and dynamic microenvironment development, and the interaction of all its components influences disease progression and response to treatment. Once the tumor microenvironment has been eradicated, various mechanisms can induce the tumors. Microorganisms can maintain the homeostasis of the tumor microenvironment through immune regulation, thereby inhibiting tumor development. Akkermania muciniphila (A. muciniphila), an anaerobic bacterium, can induce tumor immunity, regulate the gastrointestinal microenvironment through metabolites, outer membrane proteins, and some cytokines, and enhance the curative effect through combined immunization. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the complex interaction between A. muciniphila and human immunity will facilitate the development of immunotherapeutic strategies in the future and enable patients to obtain a more stable clinical response. This article reviews the most recent developments in the tumor immunity of A. muciniphila.

An investigation for phylogenetic characterization of human Pancreatic cancer microbiome by 16SrDNA Sequencing and Bioinformatics techniques

Pancreatic cancer is a significant public health concern, with increasing incidence rates and limited treatment options. Recent studies have highlighted the role of the human microbiome, particularly the gut microbiota, in the development and progression of this disease. Microbial dysbiosis, characterized by alterations in the composition and function of the gut microbiota, has been implicated in pancreatic carcinogenesis through mechanisms involving chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and metabolic disturbances. Researchers have identified specific microbial signatures associated with pancreatic cancer, offering potential biomarkers for early detection and prognostication. By leveraging advanced sequencing and bioinformatics tools, scientists have delineated differences in the gut microbiota between pancreatic cancer patients and healthy individuals, providing insights into disease pathogenesis and potential diagnostic strategies. Moreover, the microbiome holds promise as a therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer treatment. Interventions aimed at modulating the microbiome, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, have demonstrated potential in enhancing the efficacy of existing cancer therapies, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy. These approaches can influence immune responses, alter tumor microenvironments, and sensitize tumors to treatment, offering new avenues for improving patient outcomes and overcoming therapeutic resistance. Overall, understanding the complex interplay between the microbiome and pancreatic cancer is crucial for advancing our knowledge of disease mechanisms and identifying innovative therapeutic strategies. Here we report phylogenetic analysis of the 16S microbial sequences of the pancreatic cancer mice microbiome and corresponding age matched healthy mice microbiome. We successfully identified differentially abundance of microbiota in the pancreatic cancer.

Gut Microbiota and Neonatal Acute Kidney Injury

OBJECTIVE

 To characterize the relationship between gut microbiota and neonatal acute kidney injury biomarkers based on the gut-kidney axis.

STUDY DESIGN

 The Pubmed database was primarily searched to include relevant literature on gut microbiota and neonatal acute kidney injury biomarkers, which was subsequently organized and analyzed and a manuscript was written.

RESULTS

 Gut microbiota was associated with neonatal acute kidney injury biomarkers. These biomarkers included TIMP-2, IGFBP-7, VEGF, calbindin, GST, B2MG, ghrelin, and clusterin.

CONCLUSION

 The gut microbiota is strongly associated with neonatal acute kidney injury biomarkers, and controlling the gut microbiota may be a potential target for ameliorating neonatal acute kidney injury.

KEY POINTS

· There is a bidirectional association between gut microbiota and AKI.. · Gut microbiota is closely associated with biomarkers of nAKI.. · Manipulation of gut microbiota may improve nAKI..

Akkermansia muciniphila: a potential booster to improve the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy

Cancer immunotherapy has emerged as a groundbreaking method of treating malignancies. However, cancer immunotherapy can only benefit a small percentage of patients, and the numerous side effects that might develop during treatment reduce its effectiveness or even put patients' lives in jeopardy. Surprisingly, the gut microbiome Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) can significantly inhibit carcinogenesis and improve anti-tumor effects, thus increasing the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy and decreasing the likelihood of side effects. In this review, we focus on the effects of A. muciniphila on the human immune system and the positive impacts of A. muciniphila on cancer immunotherapy, which can build on strengths and improve weaknesses of cancer immunotherapy. The potential clinical applications of A. muciniphila on cancer immunotherapy are also proposed, which have great prospects for anti-tumor therapy.

The impact of the gut microbiome on tumor immunotherapy: from mechanism to application strategies

Immunotherapy is one of the fastest developing areas in the field of oncology. Many immunological treatment strategies for refractory tumors have been approved and marketed. Nevertheless, much clinical and preclinical experimental evidence has shown that the efficacy of immunotherapy in tumor treatment varies markedly among individuals. The commensal microbiome mainly colonizes the intestinal lumen in humans, is affected by a variety of factors and exhibits individual variation. Moreover, the gut is considered the largest immune organ of the body due to its influence on the immune system. In the last few decades, with the development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques and in-depth research, the view that the gut microbiota intervenes in antitumor immunotherapy through the immune system has been gradually confirmed. Here, we review important studies published in recent years focusing on the influences of microbiota on immune system and the progression of malignancy. Furthermore, we discuss the mechanism by which microbiota affect tumor immunotherapy, including immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) and adoptive T-cell therapy (ACT), and strategies for modulating the microbial composition to facilitate the antitumor immune response. Finally, opportunity and some challenges are mentioned to enable a more systematic understanding of tumor treatment in the future and promote basic research and clinical application in related fields.

Akkermansia muciniphila: A potential target and pending issues for oncotherapy

In the wake of the development of metagenomic, metabolomic, and metatranscriptomic approaches, the intricate interactions between the host and various microbes are now being progressively understood. Numerous studies have demonstrated evident changes in gut microbiota during the process of a variety of diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, aging, and cancers. Notably, gut microbiota is viewed as a potential source of novel therapeutics. Currently, Next-generation probiotics (NGPs) are gaining popularity as therapeutic agents that alter the gut microbiota and affect cancer development. Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila), a representative commensal bacterium, has received substantial attention over the past decade as a promising NGP. The components and metabolites of A. muciniphila can directly or indirectly affect tumorigenesis, in particular through its effects on antitumor immunosurveillance, including the stimulation of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which also leads to better outcomes in a variety of situations, including the prevention and curation of cancers. In this article, we systematically summarize the role of A. muciniphila in tumorigenesis (involving gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal cancers) and in tumor therapy. In particular, we carefully discuss some critical scientific issues that need to be solved for the future using A. muciniphila as a representative beneficial bacterium in tumor treatment, which might provide bright clues and assistance for the application of drugs targeting A. muciniphila in clinical oncotherapy.

Beneficial Bacteria Isolated from Food in Relation to the Next Generation of Probiotics

Recently, probiotics are increasingly being used for human health. So far, only lactic acid bacteria isolated from the human gastrointestinal tract were recommended for human use as probiotics. However, more authors suggest that probiotics can be also isolated from unconventional sources, such as fermented food products of animal and plant origin. Traditional fermented products are a rich source of microorganisms, some of which may have probiotic properties. A novel category of recently isolated microorganisms with great potential of health benefits are next-generation probiotics (NGPs). In this review, general information of some "beneficial microbes", including NGPs and acetic acid bacteria, were presented as well as essential mechanisms and microbe host interactions. Many reports showed that NGP selected strains and probiotics from unconventional sources exhibit positive properties when it comes to human health (i.e., they have a positive effect on metabolic, human gastrointestinal, neurological, cardiovascular, and immune system diseases). Here we also briefly present the current regulatory framework and requirements that should be followed to introduce new microorganisms for human use. The term "probiotic" as used herein is not limited to conventional probiotics. Innovation will undoubtedly result in the isolation of potential probiotics from new sources with fascinating new health advantages and hitherto unforeseen functionalities.

The traditional Chinese medicine and non-small cell lung cancer: from a gut microbiome perspective

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most serious diseases affecting human health today, and current research is focusing on gut flora. There is a correlation between intestinal flora imbalance and lung cancer, but the specific mechanism is not clear. Based on the "lung and large intestine being interior-exteriorly related" and the "lung-intestinal axis" theory. Here, based on the theoretical comparisons of Chinese and western medicine, we summarized the regulation of intestinal flora in NSCLC by active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine and Chinese herbal compounds and their intervention effects, which is conducive to providing new strategies and ideas for clinical prevention and treatment of NSCLC.

Role of Akkermansia in Human Diseases: From Causation to Therapeutic Properties

The gut microbiota plays a critical role in the modulation of host metabolism and immune response, and its impairment has been implicated in many gastrointestinal and extraintestinal diseases. Current evidence shows the well-documented role of A. muciniphila in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier, modulating the host immune response, and improving several metabolic pathways, making it a key element in the pathogenesis of several human diseases. In this scenario, A. muciniphila is the most promising next-generation probiotic and one of the first microbial species suitable for specific clinical use when compared with traditional probiotics. Further studies are needed to provide more accurate insight into its mechanisms of action and to better elucidate its properties in several major areas, paving the way for a more integrated and personalized therapeutic approach that finally makes the most of our knowledge of the gut microbiota.

The Role of the Gut Microbiome in Cancer Immunotherapy: Current Knowledge and Future Directions

Cancer immunotherapy is a treatment modality that aims to stimulate the anti-tumor immunity of the host to elicit favorable clinical outcomes. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) gained traction due to the lasting effects and better tolerance in patients carrying solid tumors in comparison to conventional treatment. However, a significant portion of patients may present primary or acquired resistance (non-responders), and thus, they may have limited therapeutic outcomes. Resistance to ICIs can be derived from host-related, tumor-intrinsic, or environmental factors. Recent studies suggest a correlation of gut microbiota with resistance and response to immunotherapy as well as with the incidence of adverse events. Currently, preclinical and clinical studies aim to elucidate the unique microbial signatures related to ICI response and anti-tumor immunity, employing metagenomics and/or multi-omics. Decoding this complex relationship can provide the basis for manipulating the malleable structure of the gut microbiota to enhance therapeutic success. Here, we delve into the factors affecting resistance to ICIs, focusing on the intricate gut microbiome–immunity interplay. Additionally, we review clinical studies and discuss future trends and directions in this promising field.

Human microbiomes in cancer development and therapy

Colonies formed by bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viral groups and their genomes, metabolites, and expressed proteins constitute complex human microbiomes. An increasing evidences showed that carcinogenesis and disease progression were link to microbiomes. Different organ sources, their microbial species, and their metabolites are different; the mechanisms of carcinogenic or procancerous are also different. Here, we summarize how microbiomes contribute to carcinogenesis and disease progression in cancers of the skin, mouth, esophagus, lung, gastrointestinal, genital, blood, and lymph malignancy. We also insight into the molecular mechanisms of triggering, promoting, or inhibiting carcinogenesis and disease progress induced by microbiomes or/and their secretions of bioactive metabolites. And then, the strategies of application of microorganisms in cancer treatment were discussed in detail. However, the mechanisms by which human microbiomes function are still poorly understood. The bidirectional interactions between microbiotas and endocrine systems need to be clarified. Probiotics and prebiotics are believed to benefit human health via a variety of mechanisms, in particular, in tumor inhibition. It is largely unknown how microbial agents cause cancer or how cancer progresses. We expect this review may open new perspectives on possible therapeutic approaches of patients with cancer.

Health and Disease: Akkermansia muciniphila , the Shining Star of the Gut Flora

Akkermansia muciniphila ( A. muciniphila ) has drawn much attention as an important gut microbe strain in recent years. A. muciniphila can influence the occurrence and development of diseases of the endocrine, nervous, digestive, musculoskeletal, and respiratory systems and other diseases. It can also improve immunotherapy for some cancers. A. muciniphila is expected to become a new probiotic in addition to Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium . An increase in A. muciniphila abundance through direct or indirect A. muciniphila supplementation may inhibit or even reverse disease progression. However, some contrary findings are found in type 2 diabetes mellitus and neurodegenerative diseases, where increased A. muciniphila abundance may aggravate the diseases. To enable a more comprehensive understanding of the role of A. muciniphila in diseases, we summarize the relevant information on A. muciniphila in different systemic diseases and introduce regulators of A. muciniphila abundance to promote the clinical transformation of A. muciniphila research.

Presence of Akkermansiaceae in gut microbiome and immunotherapy effectiveness in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer

The significance of Akkermansia bacteria presence in gut micobiome, mainly Akkermansia mucinifila, is currently being investigated in the context of supporting therapy and marker for response to immunotherapy in cancer patients. It is indicated that patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) respond better to treatment if this bacterium is present in the intestine.

We performed next-generation sequencing of the gut microbiome from patients treated in the first or second line therapy with anti-PD-1 (anti-programmed death 1) or anti-PD-L1 (anti-programmed death ligand 1) monoclonal antibodies. In our study group of 47 NSCLC patients, the percentage of Akkermansiaceae was higher in patients with disease stabilization and with partial response to immunotherapy compared to patients with disease progression. Moreover, we found that a higher percentage of Akkermansiaceae was present in patients with squamous cell carcinoma compared to adenocarcinoma. Our study showed that Akkermansiaceae could be supporting marker for response to immunotherapies in NSCLC patients, nonetheless further in-depth studies should be conducted in the role of Akkermansiaceae in cancer immunotherapy.

Composition of the microbiome can influence patients response to immunotherapy

Response to immunotherapy of NSCLC patients is associated with the presence of Akkermansiaceae in the gut

Akkermansia could be used as a predictor for patient treated with immunological checkpoint inhibitors

Akkermansia muciniphila Alters Gut Microbiota and Immune System to Improve Cardiovascular Diseases in Murine Model

The gut microbiota plays an important role in a variety of cardiovascular diseases. The probiotics screened based on microbiota can effectively improve metabolism and immune function of the body, which is of great value in the field of cardiovascular disease treatment. Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) refer to the lesion or injury of the abdominal aortic wall resulting in a localized bulge, which is one of the cardiovascular diseases with pulsing mass as the main clinical symptom. Previous studies have confirmed that A. muciniphila was depleted in the guts of AAA patients or mice. A. muciniphila is a potential probiotic for the treatment of intestinal microbiome-related diseases. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of A. muciniphila on gut microbiota and disease-related biomarkers in AAA mice. C57BL/6J mice were used to construct the AAA model and treated with A. muciniphila. Aortic aneurysm formation in the AAA group is associated with the increased diameter of the abdominal aorta and inflammatory infiltration. A. muciniphila inhibited the formation of AAA and repaired tissue damage. The number of gut microbiota and α diversity index were decreased in the model group. A. muciniphila increased the number of gut microbiota and α diversity in AAA mice. The abundance of uncultured bacterium and Lactobacillus were increased, while the abundance of the Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group was reduced in the AAA group. Compared with the control group, the levels of MMP-1, MMP-9, IL-33, CTSB, and CTSL in tissue and the levels of IL-6, IFN-γ, and CRP in blood were significantly increased, and the levels of IL-4, IL-10, and IL-17A in blood were significantly decreased in the AAA group. The intervention of A. muciniphila reversed these changes. The gut microbiota function prediction showed changes in E. coli, Clostridium, and Lactobacillus metabolism-related functional pathways. Akkermansia was negatively correlated with Helicobacter and Lactobacillus and positively correlated with Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 and Escherichia shigella at the genus level. In conclusion, A. muciniphila inhibited the formation of AAA by restoring gut microbiota diversity, altering the expression of peripheral immune factors, and the functions of E. coli, Clostridium, and Lactobacillus, which may provide a new theoretical basis for the application of probiotics in cardiovascular diseases.

Disease-associated dysbiosis and potential therapeutic role of Akkermansia muciniphila, a mucus degrading bacteria of gut microbiome

The unique functionality of Akkermansia muciniphila in gut microbiota indicates it to be an indispensable microbe for human welfare. The importance of A. muciniphila lies in its potential to convert mucin into beneficial by-products, regulate intestinal homeostasis and maintain gut barrier integrity. It is also known to competitively inhibit other mucin-degrading bacteria and improve metabolic functions and immunity responses in the host. It finds a pivotal perspective in various diseases and their treatment. It has future as a promising probiotic, disease biomarker and therapeutic agent for chronic diseases. Disease-associated dysbiosis of A. muciniphila in the gut microbiome makes it a potential candidate as a biomarker for some diseases and can provide future theranostics by suggesting ways of diagnosis for the patients and best treatment method based on the screening results. Manipulation of A. muciniphila in gut microbiome may help in developing a novel personalized therapeutic action and can be a suitable next generation medicine. However, the actual pathway governing A. muciniphila interaction with hosts remains to be investigated. Also, due to the limited availability of products containing A. muciniphila, it is not exploited to its full potential. The present review aims at highlighting the potential of A. muciniphila in mucin degradation, contribution towards the gut health and host immunity and management of metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, and respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis and COVID-19.

Stem-Cell Theory of Cancer: Implications for Antiaging and Anticancer Strategies

Simple Summary

A stem-cell theory of cancer connects aging with cancer. It indicates that aging is a stemness process and cancer is a stem-cell disease. It implicates that a pertinent scientific strategy and proper research endeavor may provide us with realistic antiaging objectives and superior anticancer outcomes. In this perspective, we illustrate that a stem-cell origin of aging and cancer reiterates a fundamental oncological principle: although genetic makeup may be pivotal, cellular context is paramount. When the genome and epigenome that regulate aging and malignancy are also stemness genes and stem-like properties, they reaffirm the essential role stem-cell quality and quantity play in our lifespan and in the formation of cancer.

Abstract

A stem-cell theory of cancer predicates that not only does the cell affect the niche, the niche also affects the cell. It implicates that even though genetic makeup may be supreme, cellular context is key. When we attempt to solve the mystery of a long cancer-free life, perhaps we need to search no further than the genetics and epigenetics of the naked mole-rat. When we try to unlock the secrets in the longevity and quality of life, perhaps we need to look no further than the lifestyle and habits of the super centenarians. We speculate that people with Down’s syndrome and progeria age faster but have fewer cancers, because they are depleted of stem cells, and, as a consequence, have fewer opportunities for stem cell defects that could predispose them to the development of cancer. We contemplate whether these incredible experiments of nature may provide irrefutable evidence that cancer is a stem-cell disease—fewer aberrant stem cells, fewer cancers; no defective stem cells, no cancer. In this perspective, we investigate a stem-cell origin of aging and cancer. We elaborate an intriguing inverse relationship between longevity and malignancy in the naked mole-rat, in Down’s syndrome, and in progeria. We postulate that stem-cell pools and stemness factors may affect aging and dictate cancer. We propose that a healthy microbiome may protect and preserve stem cell reserves and provide meaningful antiaging effects and anticancer benefits.

Next-generation probiotics - do they open new therapeutic strategies for cancer patients?

Gut microbiota and its association with cancer development/treatment has been intensively studied during the past several years. Currently, there is a growing interest toward next-generation probiotics (NGPs) as therapeutic agents that alter gut microbiota and impact on cancer development. In the present review we focus on three emerging NGPs, namely Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Akkermansia muciniphila, and Bacteroides fragilis as their presence in the digestive tract can have an impact on cancer incidence. These NGPs enhance gastrointestinal immunity, maintain intestinal barrier integrity, produce beneficial metabolites, act against pathogens, improve immunotherapy efficacy, and reduce complications associated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Notably, the use of NGPs in cancer patients does not have a long history and, although their safety remains relatively undefined, recently published data has shown that they are non-toxigenic. Notwithstanding, A. muciniphila may promote colitis whereas enterotoxigenic B. fragilis stimulates chronic inflammation and participates in colorectal carcinogenesis. Nevertheless, the majority of B. fragilis strains provide a beneficial effect to the host, are non-toxigenic and considered as the best current NGP candidate. Overall, emerging studies indicate a beneficial role of these NGPs in the prevention of carcinogenesis and open new promising therapeutic options for cancer patients.

Dietary Boswellia serrata Acid Alters the Gut Microbiome and Blood Metabolites in Experimental Models

Boswellia serrata, commonly known as frankincense, has been used for centuries as a natural anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial remedy for many illnesses. However, the effect of the bioactive ingredient of it, 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-b-boswellic acid (AKBA), on both the gut microbiome and blood metabolites, is not known. In this study, we observe the effect of this isolated active ingredient orally on both male and female mice. Gut microbiota and blood metabolites were determined at the beginning and end of a 14-day consumption period. AKBA significantly decreased gut bacterial richness in male mice, and had no effect on female mice. Akkermansia muciniphila, associated with weight loss and anti-inflammation, was found to be significantly increased in both male and female mice, along with an increase in Bifidobacterium in female mice. Akkermansia muciniphila and Bifidobacterium were plated on media containing varying levels of AKBA (0%, 0.001%, 0.01%, and 0.1%). All concentrations of AKBA completely inhibited growth of Akkermansia muciniphila but had no effect on Bifidobacterium. Several blood metabolites differed with AKBA between both males and females. These results show the potential benefits of dietary Boswellia serrata on the modulation of gut microbiome composition, along with differences between sexes.

Dicer Enhances Bevacizumab-Related Inhibition of Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Blocking the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Pathway

Purpose

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family members contribute greatly to the development and angiogenesis of hypervascular hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We have previously shown that Dicer inhibited HCC growth. In this study, we aimed to determine the relationship between Dicer and VEGF in HCC.

Methods

Gain-of-function studies were performed to determine the effect of different treatments on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells. Expression of VEGF-A in xenograft tumor tissues was analysed using Western blotting, and that of CD31 using immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

We found that Dicer inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells by suppressing VEGF-A expression. Interestingly, VEGF-A165, which is the most prominent VEGF-A isoform, counteracted Dicer-induced inhibition of HCC cells. In addition, a monoclonal anti-VEGF antibody (bevacizumab) enhanced Dicer-induced inhibition of HCC in vitro and in vivo. Further, immunohistochemical analysis of CD31 indicated bevacizumab and Dicer synergized to reduce tumor microvessel density.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrated that Dicer enhanced bevacizumab-related inhibition of HCC cell via the VEGF pathway; therefore, Dicer in coordination with bevacizumab may provide another potential approach for HCC therapy.

Native and Engineered Probiotics: Promising Agents against Related Systemic and Intestinal Diseases

Intestinal homeostasis is a dynamic balance involving the interaction between the host intestinal mucosa, immune barrier, intestinal microecology, nutrients, and metabolites. Once homeostasis is out of balance, it will increase the risk of intestinal diseases and is also closely associated with some systemic diseases. Probiotics (Escherichia coli Nissle 1917, Akkermansia muciniphila, Clostridium butyricum, lactic acid bacteria and Bifidobacterium spp.), maintaining the gut homeostasis through direct interaction with the intestine, can also exist as a specific agent to prevent, alleviate, or cure intestinal-related diseases. With genetic engineering technology advancing, probiotics can also show targeted therapeutic properties. The aims of this review are to summarize the roles of potential native and engineered probiotics in oncology, inflammatory bowel disease, and obesity, discussing the therapeutic applications of these probiotics.

Akkermansia Muciniphila Potentiates the Antitumor Efficacy of FOLFOX in Colon Cancer

FOLFOX (oxaliplatin, fluorouracil and calcium folinate) is the first-line chemotherapy regimen for colon cancer therapy in the clinic. It provides superior efficacy than oxaliplatin alone, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, pharmacomicrobiomics integrated with metabolomics was conducted to uncover the role of the gut microbiome behind this. First, in vivo study demonstrated that FOLFOX exhibited better efficacy than oxaliplatin alone in colon cancer animal models. Second, 16S rDNA gene sequencing analysis showed that the abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) remarkably increased in the FOLFOX treated individuals and positively correlated with the therapeutic effect. Third, further exploration confirmed A. muciniphila colonization significantly enhanced the anti-cancer efficacy of FOLFOX. Last, metabolomics analysis suggested dipeptides containing branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) might be responsible for gut bacteria mediated FOLFOX efficacy. In conclusion, our study revealed the key role of A. muciniphila in mediating FOLFOX efficacy, and manipulating A. muciniphila might serve as a novel strategy for colon cancer therapy.

Microbiome Analysis Reveals the Dynamic Alternations in Gut Microbiota of Diarrheal Giraffa camelopardalis

The ruminant gut microbial community's importance has been widely acknowledged due to its positive roles in physiology, metabolism, and health maintenance. Diarrhea has been demonstrated to cause adverse effects on gastrointestinal health and intestinal microecosystem, but studies regarding diarrheal influence on gut microbiota in Giraffa camelopardalis have been insufficient to date. Here, this study was performed to investigate and compare gut microbial composition and variability between healthy and diarrheic G. camelopardalis. The results showed that the gut microbial community of diarrheal G. camelopardalis displayed a significant decrease in alpha diversity, accompanied by distinct alterations in taxonomic compositions. Bacterial taxonomic analysis indicated that the dominant bacterial phyla (Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes) and genera (Escherichia Shigella and Acinetobacter) of both groups were the same but different in relative abundance. Specifically, the proportion of Proteobacteria in the diarrheal G. camelopardalis was increased as compared with healthy populations, whereas Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Tenericutes, and Spirochaetes were significantly decreased. Moreover, the relative abundance of one bacterial genus (Comamonas) dramatically increased in diarrheic G. camelopardalis, whereas the relative richness of 18 bacterial genera decreased compared with healthy populations. Among them, two bacterial genera (Ruminiclostridium_5 and Blautia) cannot be detected in the gut bacterial community of diarrheal G. camelopardalis. In summary, this study demonstrated that diarrhea could significantly change the gut microbial composition and diversity in G. camelopardalis by increasing the proportion of pathogenic to beneficial bacteria. Moreover, this study first characterized the distribution of gut microbial communities in G. camelopardalis with different health states. It contributed to providing a theoretical basis for establishing a prevention and treatment system for G. camelopardalis diarrhea.

Microbes in lung cancer initiation, treatment, and outcome: Boon or bane?

Lung cancer is the top reason for cancer-related deaths worldwide. The 5-year overall survival rate of lung cancer is approximately 20 % due to the delayed diagnosis and low response rate to regular treatments. Microbiota, both host-microbiota and alien pathogenic microbiota, have been investigated to be involved in a complicated and contradictory relationship with lung cancer initiation, treatments, and prognosis. Disorders of certain host-microbiota and pathogen infection are associated with the risk of lung cancers based on epidemiological evidence, and antibiotics (ATBs) could dramatically impair anti-cancer treatment efficacy, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Moreover, probiotics and microbe-mediated drugs are potential approaches to enhance regular anti-tumor treatments. Therefore, the knowledge of the complex dual effect of microbes on lung cancer is beneficial to take their essence and remove their dross. This review offers insight into the current trends and advancements in microbiota or microbial components related to lung cancer.

Microbiome analysis reveals the alterations in gut microbiota in different intestinal segments of Yimeng black goats

Mounting evidence revealed the importance of gut microbiota in host metabolism, immunity and physiology, and health. Yimeng black goats (YBGs) mainly distributed in Shandong province of China, displayed a complicated intestinal microecosystem, but studies of its gut microbiota are still insufficient to report. Therefore, this study was performed with an objective to characterize the intestinal microbial community structure and diversity in the small intestine (duodenum, jejunum and ileum) and cecum of YBGs and investigated the variability of gut microbiota of different intestinal segments. A total of 12 intestinal samples were collected from YBGs for high-throughput sequencing analysis based on V3-V4 variable region of 16S rRNA genes. Our results revealed alterations in gut microbial composition with obvious differences in relative abundance between the different intestinal segments. Additionally, small intestine including duodenum, jejunum and ileum not only displayed higher species abundance and diversity than cecum but also showed a significant difference among the main components of gut microbiota based on the analytical results of alpha and beta diversities. At the phylum level, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were the most preponderant phyla in all the samples regardless of intestinal sites. Moreover, the microbiota in small intestine was significantly different from cecum, which were characterized by the higher relative abundance of Butyrivibrio_2, Megasphaera, Halomonas, Delftia, Hydrogenophaga, Limnobacter, Pseudoxanthomonas, Novosphingobium, Janibacter and Erythrobacter, whereas the levels of Butyricicoccus, unidentified_Lachnospiraceae, Fusicatenibacter, Akkermansia, Ruminococcaceae_NK4A214_group and Lactobacillus were lower. Overall, this study first characterized the profile of gut microbiota composition in different intestinal sites and provide better insight into intestinal microbial community structure and diversity of YBGs.