• The impact of the gut microbiota on cancer treatment review article
  • Farnaz Ameri,1 Saman Hakimian,2,*
    1. bachelor student of microbiology Islamic Azad shiraz
    2. M.sc student of Pathogenic Microbes Islamic Azad University Central Tehran Branch


  • Introduction: Introduction: The collection of microbial species present in different parts of an individual’s body is called the “microbiota”, and the collective genes of these are referred to as the “microbiome”. Each person’s microbiota is unique and is influenced by genetic and environmental factors, including lifestyle and use of certain medication. Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. The formation of cancer is the result of the random accumulation of intracellular mutation, spontaneous mutation, along with environmental exposure and lifestyle habits. For example, exposure to infectious agents, ultraviolet radiation and toxic substances, as well as an individual’s diet and lifestyle, can influence it.
  • Methods: Material methods: Commensal bacteria are key determinants of health or pathology. The most extensive bacterial community in the body is related to the gut microbiota, which affects host homeostasis. The gut microbiota includes a heterogeneous population of microorganism, mainly bacteria and occasionally fungi and viruses and etc. (10^14). they are mostly located in the large intestine. Among the 1000 different bacterial species present in the gut microbiota, the firmicutes and Bacteroidetes phyla are prominent. Recent research has shown that changes in the composition of gut microbiota can be associated with the onset and progression of various types of cancer.
  • Results: Results: Gut microbiota can influence cancer treatment though several mechanisms. These include modulation of the immune system, alteration of drug metabolism, and direct interaction with cancer cells. For instance, certain bacterial species such as Bacteroides fragilis have been shown to enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors by modulating the host’s immune response. Additionally, gut microbiota can effect the metabolism of chemotherapeutic agents, there by influencing their efficacy and toxicity.
  • Conclusion: Conclusion: The gut microbiota represents a novel and promising target for enhancing cancer treatment efficacy. Future research should focus on identifying specific microbial signatures associated with treatment response and developing personalized microbiota-based therapies.
  • Keywords: Microbiota_Microbiome_Cancer_Gut Microbiota_Immune Response