The role of human microbiota in the development of colorectal cancer: A literature review

Abstract

Colorectal carcinoma is the third most common neoplasm with the highest incidence and most second mortality in the world, being, for the most part, considered a multifactorial disease. Recent studies have shown a possible interaction with the intestinal microbiota as a factor for the development of cancer based on the tumour microenvironment. In this work we aim to perform a research of existing body of literature related to the link between the microbiome and cancer. Here, it discusses dysbiosis data found in humans, as well as genotoxicity studies and/o pro-carcinogenic mechanisms including Fusobacterium nucleatum, Bacteroides fragilis, Parvimonas micra, Porphyromonas and Escherichia coli pks+. In addition, the use of specific bacteria as diagnostic markers and carcinoma stage, host genetics as a conditioning factor, as well as the manipulation of the microbiota employing natural products and probiotics can have benefits in the response to treatments in patients with colorectal cancer.