Probiotics and mediterranean diet for breast cancer management and prevention?

Abstract

The human gut microbiota, a diverse community of beneficial normal flora microorganisms, significantly influences physiological function and the immune response. Various microbiota strains have shown promise in supporting clinical treatment of chronic diseases, including cancer, by potentially providing antioxidative and anti-tumorigenic effects in both in vivo and in vitro studies. Breast cancer, which ranks amongst the top five cancer types common worldwide and particularly in Mediterranean countries, has been showing high incidence and prevalence. In breast cancer, microbiota composition, hormonal dynamics, and dietary choices are believed to play significant roles. Hence, the Mediterranean diet, known for its microbiota-friendly features, emerges as a potential protective factor against breast cancer development, highlighting the potential for personalized dietary strategies in cancer prevention. This comprehensive review highlights the emerging mechanisms by which probiotics support our immune system during different physiological activities. It also discusses their potential role, along with nutrition intervention, in improving essential clinical treatment outcomes in breast cancer patients and survivors, suggesting potential supportive strategies that go hand in hand with clinical strategies. Unfortunately, very little research addresses the possible clinical implications of probiotics and dietary habits on breast cancer, despite the promising results, calling for further studies and actions.

Keywords: anticarcinogenic activities; cancer; cancer prevention; gut microbiota; mediterranean diet; personalized dietary strategies.

Figure 1.. FIGURE 1: The beneficial effects of probiotics on gut microbiota and host health.

This figure illustrates how probiotics influence various physiological processes. (1) Probiotics modulate the gut microbiota, promoting a balanced microbial ecosystem. (2) They contribute to immune modulation by interacting with host immune cells and enhancing immune responses. (3) Certain probiotic strains exhibit anti-oxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress and protecting cells from damage. (4) Probiotics engage in TLR/Flagellin interactions, influencing immune signaling and inflammation pathways. (5) Some probiotics demonstrate anti-proliferative effects, which may help in inhibiting the growth of harmful or cancerous cells. (6) MicroRNA modulation by probiotics affects gene expression, contributing to various biological processes and overall health benefits.