The interplay between microbiomes and gliomas: an updated review of the literature
The interplay between microbiomes and gliomas: an updated review of the literature
Kimia Kazemzadeh,1,*
1. Universal Scientific Education and Research Network/ Tehran University of Medical Sciences
Introduction: Background: Gliomas represent a diverse group of primary brain tumors characterized by their heterogeneous nature and variable clinical outcomes. This study aims to review the current understanding of the relationship between microbiomes—communities of microorganisms in the body—and gliomas, focusing on how these microbial communities may influence glioma development and immune responses.
Methods: Method: A literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify relevant studies. The search utilized keywords including "microbiome," "gliomas," "brain tumors," and "tumor microenvironment."
Results: Result: The gut microbiome communicates with the brain through the gut-brain axis, influencing neurological health and potentially affecting glioma development. Dysbiosis, or imbalance in gut microbiota, has been linked to glioma progression, indicating that gut health may play a role in tumorigenesis. Also, recent studies have identified microbial populations within gliomas themselves, suggesting that these intratumoral microbiomes may directly influence tumor behavior and immune responses. Notably, microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), play significant roles in regulating inflammation and immune responses in the central nervous system. Changes in these metabolites due to alterations in gut microbiota can influence glioma growth and patient outcomes. In addition, there is growing interest in utilizing microbiome modulation as a therapeutic strategy for gliomas. This includes the potential use of probiotics or dietary interventions to restore healthy gut microbiota, which may enhance treatment responses and improve patient survival. Studies have shown that antibiotic treatment can disrupt gut microbiota diversity, potentially leading to adverse effects on glioma progression. For example, antibiotic-induced dysbiosis has been associated with increased glioma growth in preclinical models, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of microbiome health during glioma treatment.
Conclusion: Conclusion: The interplay between microbiomes and gliomas is complex, involving direct microbial effects on tumor biology and indirect influences through immune modulation. Continued research is essential to better understand these interactions and to explore microbiome-targeted therapies as potential adjuncts to conventional glioma treatments.