The Role of Gut Microbiota in Gastrointestinal Tract Cancers

Disturbances in gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota could play a significant role in the development of GI cancers, but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. While some bacteria seem to facilitate carcinogenesis, others appear to be protective. So far only one bacterium (Helicobacter pylori) has been classified by the International Agency for Cancer Research as carcinogenic in humans but many other are the subject of intense research. Most studies on the role of microbiota in GI tract oncogenesis focus on pancreatic and colorectal cancers with the following three species: Helicobacter pylori, Escherichia coli, and Porphyromonas gingivalis as likely causative factors. This review summarizes the role of bacteria in GI tract oncogenesis.

Automated summary

Disturbances in gastrointestinal microbiota could significantly contribute to the development of GI cancers, with some bacteria facilitating carcinogenesis while others potentially acting as protective factors. Helicobacter pylori, Escherichia coli, and Porphyromonas gingivalis are likely causative factors in the oncogenesis of pancreatic and colorectal cancers.