Advances in the role of gut microbiota in the regulation of the tumor microenvironment (Review)

Oncol Rep. 2023 Oct;50(4):181. doi: 10.3892/or.2023.8618. Epub 2023 Aug 24.

Abstract

As a protector of human health, the gut microbiota plays an important role in the development of the immune system during childhood, and the regulation of dietary habits, metabolism and immune system during adulthood. Dysregulated gut flora is not pathogenic, but it can weaken the protective effect of the immune system and cause various diseases. The tumor microenvironment is a physiological environment formed during tumor growth, which provides nutrients and growth factors necessary for tumor growth. As an important factor affecting the tumor microenvironment, the intestinal microflora affects the development of tumors through the mechanisms of gut and microflora metabolites, gene toxins and signaling pathways. The present article aimed to review the components and mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and biological targets of gut microbiota in the regulation of the tumor microenvironment. The present review provides novel insights for the future use of intestinal flora, to regulate the tumor microenvironment, to intervene in the occurrence, development, treatment and prognosis of tumors.

Keywords: biological target; clinical application; gut microbiota; mechanism of action; tumor microenvironment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Gastrointestinal Microbiome*
  • Humans
  • Tumor Microenvironment

Grants and funding

The present study was supported by the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Health Science and Technology Plan Project Assignment (grant no. 202201184), the Inner Mongolia Medical University Zhiyuan Talent Program (Good Learning Talent Program) (grant no. ZY0202031), the Program for Young Talents of Science and Technology in Universities of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (grant no. NJYT23050) and the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region ‘Grassland Talent’ project youth innovation and entrepreneurship talent project (grant no. 2022073).