Linking microbiome to cancer: A mini-review on contemporary advances

The intricate relationship between the human microbiome and cancer has garnered significant interest in recent years, transforming our understanding of how microbial communities influence health and disease. The microbiome, particularly in the gut, is known to interact with host immune responses, metabolic processes, and inflammation pathways, all of which play roles in cancer development and progression. This mini-review presents current advances linking microbial dysbiosis to cancer, focusing on the mechanisms through which specific microbial populations contribute to oncogenesis, as well as their impact on tumor microenvironments, immune modulation, and treatment responses. Additionally, we explore how microbial profiling and manipulation strategies, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, are emerging as promising adjuncts in cancer prevention and therapy. Understanding the dynamic interactions between microbes and cancer cells may provide innovative perspectives on cancer treatment, opening avenues for microbiome-targeted therapies and personalized medicine.