Unraveling the role of mucins and gut microbiota in gastrointestinal cancers chemoresistance

Abstract

The interaction between heavily glycosylated mucin proteins in the mucus layer, gut microbes, and gastrointestinal (GI) tract cancers has been extensively studied to improve treatment outcomes and survival rates in cancer patients. Colorectal and pancreatic cancers, among the most common GI cancers, are leading causes of cancer-related deaths due to their high recurrence rates and resistance to therapy. Tumor resistance is influenced by multiple factors, notably the tumor microenvironment, which is largely shaped by the gut microbiota. A bidirectional relationship between gut microbes and mucins helps maintain intestinal homeostasis. Mucins, along with gut microbes and their metabolites, play significant roles in oncogenic signaling pathways and have been identified as key biomarkers for cancer. Additionally, mucins and microbes contribute to the response to treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy. This review highlights the critical role of mucins and gut microbiota interactions in therapy response, exploring recent advancements in therapies targeting these factors. By focusing on mucin- and microbiota-targeted treatments and combination therapies, these strategies offer potential for improving therapeutic outcomes and increasing survival rates in patients with these challenging cancers.