Bacteria and tumor: Understanding the roles of bacteria in tumor genesis and immunology

Abstract

In the past, tumor and microbial infection were commonly regarded as independent diseases with few interrelations. The discovery of bacteria in tumor tissue changed the knowledge of bacteria-tumor relationship. Recently, more and more findings have demonstrated the significant effects of bacteria on the genesis, development and metastasis of tumor. Particularly, the influence of bacteria on tumor immunity is of great interest. Bacteria can inhibit the function of immune system through multiple mechanisms. On the other hand, some bacteria can also enhance the immune response and inhibit tumor progression. Understanding the bacteria-tumor interactions is of great importance for developing novel anticancer approaches. Herein, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the tumor/tumor immunology, the biogenesis of bacteria in tumor and the relation of tumorigenesis with bacteria. In addition, the roles of bacteria in tumor immunology and the potential approaches to use bacteria for cancer therapy are discussed.

Keywords: Bacteria; Cancer; Immunology; Microbiology; Tumor.