Scientists Repurpose Probiotics to Target and Kill Cancer Cells
Recent research suggests that probiotics, commonly known for their gut health benefits, may hold potential as a weapon against cancer. Scientists are exploring ways to transform these beneficial bacteria into agents that can seek out and destroy tumor cells, offering a novel approach to cancer treatment.
The growing incidence of cancer – approximately 97 new cases diagnosed daily in Hong Kong in recent years – has spurred the development of increasingly sophisticated therapies. While surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy remain foundational, newer treatments like targeted therapy and immunotherapy are gaining prominence. Although, these advanced therapies aren’t without limitations, including drug resistance and varying effectiveness among patients.
Immunotherapy, which works by bolstering the body’s own immune response to cancer, has shown promise, particularly in treating melanoma and lung cancer. Another innovative approach, known as CAR T-cell therapy, involves genetically modifying a patient’s immune cells to target and attack cancer cells, demonstrating significant success in blood cancers but facing challenges in solid tumors and potential immune system overactivation.
Emerging research highlights the crucial role of the gut microbiome in cancer treatment. Studies indicate that individuals with a more diverse gut microbiome tend to respond better to immunotherapy, with higher levels of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium correlating with longer periods without disease progression. Animal studies have further demonstrated that introducing probiotics can strengthen the intestinal barrier, reduce inflammation, and activate immune cells, thereby enhancing the body’s anti-tumor response.
Clinical analyses suggest that probiotics can also mitigate the side effects of cancer treatments and accelerate recovery. For example, probiotics have been shown to reduce the risk of infection by approximately 66% after colorectal cancer surgery, decrease the incidence of sepsis by around 69%, and alleviate diarrhea by about 62%, while also speeding up the restoration of bowel function. They may also reduce the risk of severe oral mucositis during chemotherapy by roughly 39%. Using multiple probiotic strains generally yields better results.
However, researchers caution that probiotics are not universally safe for all cancer patients. Individuals with weakened immune systems, low white blood cell counts, compromised intestinal health, or those with central venous catheters and a higher risk of infection should exercise caution. Cases of sepsis have been reported in a small number of patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy while using probiotics, emphasizing the importance of careful evaluation by a physician before supplementation.
cancer patients considering probiotic supplementation should first consult with their primary oncologist to assess their immune status and suitability. The findings underscore the complex interplay between the gut microbiome and cancer treatment, and the potential for harnessing the power of probiotics to improve patient outcomes.
This research builds on the understanding that imbalances in the gut microbiome are closely linked to cancer risk and the development of colorectal cancer. Restoring a healthy gut microbiome through probiotic strains can stabilize and strengthen the intestinal barrier, and promote anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-mutagenic effects.
