Probiotics as a Therapeutic Approach in Colorectal Cancer

Microbiome as a biomarker and therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer

Studying the effects of the microbiome on the development of different types of cancer has recently received increasing research attention. In this context, the microbial content of organs of the gastrointestinal tract has been proposed to play a potential role in the development of pancreatic cancer (PC). Proposed mechanisms for the pathogenesis of PC include persistent inflammation caused by microbiota leading to an impairment of antitumor immune surveillance and altered cellular processes in the tumor microenvironment. The limited available diagnostic markers that can currently be used for screening suggest the importance of microbial composition as a non-invasive biomarker that can be used in clinical settings. Samples including saliva, stool, and blood can be analyzed by 16 s rRNA sequencing to determine the relative abundance of specific bacteria. Studies have shown the potentially beneficial effects of prebiotics, probiotics, antibiotics, fecal microbial transplantation, and bacteriophage therapy in altering microbial diversity, and subsequently improving treatment outcomes. In this review, we summarize the potential impact of the microbiome in the pathogenesis of PC, and the role these microorganisms might play as biomarkers in the diagnosis and determining the prognosis of patients. We also discuss novel treatment methods being used to minimize or prevent the progression of dysbiosis by modulating the microbial composition. Emerging evidence is supportive of applying these findings to improve current therapeutic strategies employed in the treatment of PC.

Microbiome and pancreatic cancer: time to think about chemotherapy

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive cancer characterized by late diagnosis, rapid progression, and a high mortality rate. Its complex biology, characterized by a dense, stromal tumor environment with an immunosuppressive milieu, contributes to resistance against standard treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. This comprehensive review explores the dynamic role of the microbiome in modulating chemotherapy efficacy and outcomes in PDAC. It delves into the microbiome's impact on drug metabolism and resistance, and the interaction between microbial elements, drugs, and human biology. We also highlight the significance of specific bacterial species and microbial enzymes in influencing drug action and the immune response in the tumor microenvironment. Cutting-edge methodologies, including artificial intelligence, low-biomass microbiome analysis and patient-derived organoid models, are discussed, offering insights into the nuanced interactions between microbes and cancer cells. The potential of microbiome-based interventions as adjuncts to conventional PDAC treatments are discussed, paving the way for personalized therapy approaches. This review synthesizes recent research to provide an in-depth understanding of how the microbiome affects chemotherapy efficacy. It focuses on elucidating key mechanisms and identifying existing knowledge gaps. Addressing these gaps is crucial for enhancing personalized medicine and refining cancer treatment strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Bioactive Peptides: Potential Impact on the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Cancers

We have reviewed the potential use of bioactive peptides in the treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies, which are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Conventional therapies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, are associated with numerous side effects that may lead to longterm complications. Bioactive peptides are short-chain amino acids that can be extracted from natural sources or synthesized, and they have various potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer properties. Bioactive peptides can be acquired from animal or plant sources, and can be classified based on their function, such as ACE-inhibiting, antimicrobial, and electrolyte- regulating peptides. Recent studies have demonstrated the promising role of bioactive peptides in tumor suppression, especially when combined with conventional therapies. In this study, we have reviewed the beneficial properties of bioactive peptides and their role in suppressing tumor activity. The mechanisms of bioactive peptides in tumor suppression are discussed. We have further reviewed the findings of preclinical and clinical studies that have investigated the application of bioactive peptides in the treatment of GI cancers. This review highlights the potential use of bioactive peptides as a promising treatment method for GI malignancies to increase the quality of life of GI cancer patients.