Intratumoral Microbiota: Metabolic Influences and Biomarker Potential in Gastrointestinal Cancer

Abstract

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers impose a substantial global health burden, highlighting the necessity for deeper understanding of their intricate pathogenesis and treatment strategies. This review explores the interplay between intratumoral microbiota, tumor metabolism, and major types of GI cancers (including esophageal, gastric, liver, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers), summarizing recent studies and elucidating their clinical implications and future directions. Recent research revealed altered microbial signatures within GI tumors, impacting tumor progression, immune responses, and treatment outcomes. Dysbiosis-induced alterations in tumor metabolism, including glycolysis, fatty acid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism, play critical roles in cancer progression and therapeutic resistance. The integration of molecular mechanisms and potential biomarkers into this understanding further enhances the prognostic significance of intratumoral microbiota composition and therapeutic opportunities targeting microbiota-mediated tumor metabolism. Despite advancements, challenges remain in understanding the dynamic interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Future research directions, including advanced omics technologies and prospective clinical studies, offer promising avenues for precision oncology and personalized treatment interventions in GI cancer. Overall, integrating microbiota-based approaches and molecular biomarkers into GI cancer management holds promise for improving patient outcomes and survival.

Keywords: gastrointestinal cancer; intratumoral microbiota; microbial biomarkers; tumor metabolism; tumor microenvironment.

Figure 1

Summary of Intratumoral Microbiota’s Influence on Tumor Metabolism in Major Types of GI Cancer.

Figure 2

Schematic Pipeline of Therapeutic and Diagnostic Methodologies Utilizing Intratumoral Microbiota in GI Cancer.