We need to stop overlooking the gut microbiome when it comes to treating cancer: Here's why

We know that the gut microbiome plays a huge role in our overall health. New research has linked this complex ecosystem to cancer treatment efficacy. 

Immunotherapy has improved outcomes for various cancer types, but for one type it appears to be less effective: ovarian cancer. A recent study, published in Cancer Immunology Research, found that in the case of ovarian cancer, bacterial flagellin disrupted immune checkpoint therapy.^[] And experts say this discovery could help us better understand the role of the microbiome when it comes to cancer treatment.

The microbiome link, explained

The microbiome is recognized as a key player in our general health, with increasing attention to its role in cancer progression and prognosis. According to authors of an article published in Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, “Microbes can facilitate the initiation and progression of various types of cancer including gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, breast cancer, and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.”^[]

Researcher Semir Beyaz, PhD, assistant professor at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, explained the microbiome-cancer connection and the role of the immune system in a webinar with the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition: “When it comes to cancer, we know that there is an intimate relationship between the microbiome and cancer, both directly and also indirectly through modulating the immune system.”^[]

Cancer treatment efficacy

In some cases, the microbiome may at least partially explain poor treatment results. The authors of the Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy article noted that poor response to cancer treatment, including “chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery and immunotherapy can be partially ascribed to some microbes.”^[]

Can we use this information about the microbiome to support better treatment outcomes? Experts agree there could be hope.

However, further research is needed in order to see results with future treatments, as“intricate complexities exist, and a deep and comprehensive understanding of how the human microbiota interacts with cancer is critical to realize its full potential in cancer treatment,” the authors wrote.

Supporting patients for a healthy gut

It’s important to educate patients on the gut microbiome and encourage a gut-friendly diet. This can include focusing on plant-predominant meals and reducing consumption of processed foods and sweets.

Dr. Beyaz emphasizes the importance of gut health and its benefits when it comes to cancer development and progression. “If you have a balanced diet that has some fiber in it, that has all major micro- and macronutrients represented in a balanced manner, I think that would be sufficient to have a good microbial ecosystem that would sustain your health,” he explained.^[]