Akkermansia muciniphila: a potential booster to improve the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy

J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. 2023 Nov;149(14):13477-13494. doi: 10.1007/s00432-023-05199-8. Epub 2023 Jul 25.

Abstract

Cancer immunotherapy has emerged as a groundbreaking method of treating malignancies. However, cancer immunotherapy can only benefit a small percentage of patients, and the numerous side effects that might develop during treatment reduce its effectiveness or even put patients' lives in jeopardy. Surprisingly, the gut microbiome Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) can significantly inhibit carcinogenesis and improve anti-tumor effects, thus increasing the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy and decreasing the likelihood of side effects. In this review, we focus on the effects of A. muciniphila on the human immune system and the positive impacts of A. muciniphila on cancer immunotherapy, which can build on strengths and improve weaknesses of cancer immunotherapy. The potential clinical applications of A. muciniphila on cancer immunotherapy are also proposed, which have great prospects for anti-tumor therapy.

Keywords: Akkermansia muciniphila; Cancer; Immune checkpoint inhibitors; Immunotherapy.

Publication types

  • Review