"The Interplay between Microbiome and Cancer Metabolism: A New Perspective on the Warburg Effect"

1. Overview of Gut Microbiome & Influence on Metabolism

The microbiome refers to the microorganisms symbiotically living in the different body locations of the host, which includes the oral cavity, respiratory tract, skin, gut, and vagina[1]. Among these, the gut microbiome, well-known for its complexity, consists of multiple organisms from different kingdoms, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses, which reside on the mucosa of the host’s gastrointestinal (GI) tract[1]. Currently, bacteria are the most studied microorganisms in the gut microbiome, consisting of phyla Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria[2]. These microorganisms convert the substances in the host GI tract and into a variety of microbiome metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), metabolites of amino acids, vitamins, conjugated lipids, and secondary bail acids, to interact with host tissues and cells to affect host physiology[3]. The gut microbiome shifts when the host suffers from diseases, such as autoimmune disease, type 2 diabetes, brain disease, inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease, etc[4]. Thus, it is critical to study the gut microbiome’s role in the host's physiological and pathophysiological state.

One of the most important aspects that is affected by the gut microbiome is the host metabolism. The study associated the gut microbiome and metabolism, indicating that individuals who take antibiotics have reduced weight compared to those who do not[5]. Later studies using germ-free mice or antibiotic-treated mice also showed reduced body weight[5]. Fecal transplantation in germ-free using fecal material from healthy individuals alleviates weight loss, which establishes the connection of the gut microbiome that can affect host body weight. This link was further supported by the difference in the gut microbiome between obese and lean mice/people[5,6].

Later, studies take this further by investigating how the gut microbiome cross-talks with host tissue and cells to affect host energy intake and expenditure. Currently, the gut microbiome regulates energy intake majorly in two ways. First, metabolites from the gut microbiome directly or indirectly participate in the caloric extraction from the food. One example is that the SCFAs, the fermented products from indigestible fiber, are involved in the different tissue energy metabolism, allowing the host to access the inaccessible calories without the gut microbiome. Butyrate is used as the energy source for the colonocytes[7]. Propionate is the substrate for gluconeogenesis in the intestine and liver[7,8]. Astrocytes use acetate as an alternative energy source other than glucose[9]. SCFAs also modulate incretin hormones to regulate appetite. Previous publications have shown that SCFAs regulate GLP-1 and PYY secretion from the enteroendocrine cells via an FFAR2-mediated pathway, indirectly involving energy intake by controlling intestine motility and appetite[10,11]. Acetate, the most abundant SCFA, elevates parasympathetic output, leading to increased food intake[12]. Second, metabolites from the gut microbiome modulate energy expenditure through various mechanisms. Butyrate has been shown to increase energy expenditure in muscle, brown adipose tissue (BAT), and beige adipose tissue. Regarding increased BAT thermogenesis, butyrate has been shown to increase sympathetic output to the BAT and BAT UCP1 expression, the key gene for thermogenesis[13]. Butyrate enhances energy expenditure in beige adipose tissue and muscle by elevating fatty acid oxidation. These studies further reveal the gut microbiome's role in the host energy balance[13].

The gut microbiome also plays important roles in carbohydrates, amino acids, and lipid metabolism. Studies have shown that the gut microbiome regulates the insulin signaling pathway, enteroendocrine cell functions, and bile acid signaling via imidazole propionate, SCFAs, and FXR/TGR5 to maintain whole-body glucose metabolism homeostasis[5,14]. Amino acids and their derivatives produced by the gut microbiome, especially from tryptophan and its metabolites, significantly impact intestine permeability and immunity[15]. The gut microbiome also impacts lipid metabolism by further processing the lipid. One example is that one bacterium can metabolize cholesterol into a sterol, which is hardly absorbed by the intestine[16]. Also, the gut microbiome can convert the primary bile acids into secondary bile acids to regulate lipid metabolism[17]. This evidence further implies the complicated role of the gut microbiome in host metabolism. With cancer being a disease that presents with a significantly changed metabolism, the gut microbiome can serve as a therapeutic target.

2. Correlation between microbiome, population-based cancer epidemiology and epigenetics

According to World Health Organization data, in 2024, there were 19.9 million new cases of cancer and almost 10,000,000 deaths from cancer. The increase in cancer burden over the next two decades is expected to be approximately 60%, requiring further research on the correlation between microbiome, cancer, and preventative strategies. Convincing evidence has supported that diet influences and reduces the risk of different types of cancers in healthy populations. A recent meta-analysis has shown that a Mediterranean diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains reduces the risk of colorectal cancer[18,19]. On the other hand, malnutrition leads to alteration in body composition, which is frequently seen in cancer patients[20,21]. Many prospective cohort studies have analyzed the benefits and harms of different foods and diets in cancer patients pre- and post-diagnosis[22,23,24,25,26,27].

Many studies investigating a periodontal pathogen called Fusobacterium nucleatum in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients have shown that their number increases as the disease progresses from an adenoma to cancer, and the higher tumor burden of F. nucleatum is correlated to worse outcomes in terms of cancer-specific survival[28,29,30,31,32]. These outcomes might be linked to the innate ability of the bacteria to activate autophagy-related pathways in the tumor environment, promoting resistance to chemotherapeutic agents like 5 Fluorouracil and Oxaliplatin[32]. Additional findings prove a unique interaction between the metabolome (i.e., polyamines) and the gut microbiota, which is significantly disrupted in CRC[33]. It is also associated with preexisting inflammation or colitis in about 2% of cases where adherent-invasive Escherichia coli strain NC101 and enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis toxin are involved in cancer development[34,35]. Fusobacterium was also linked to non-colitis-associated CRC in patients[36,37]. Furthermore, a few Clostridium species and E. coli strains produce deoxycholic acid (DCA) and colibactin, respectively, which are examples of genotoxic metabolites produced by gut bacteria that contribute to cancer development[38].

Flemer et al. investigated different bacteria’s Co abundance Groups (CAG). The outcome of this study showed that increased CAGs of Prevotella and Bacteroidetes were associated with improved survival. Other bacteria, such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, also showed better survival outcomes[30,39]. Changes in tumor microenvironment have also been seen at phylum, family, and genus levels. Najafi et al. conducted a meta-analysis and found a significant difference in actinobacteria species between case and control groups at the phylum level. At the family level, Corynebacteriaceae and Halomonadaceae levels were significantly decreased in the tumor tissue. Finally, at the genus level, decreased levels of Lachnoanaerobaculum, Corynebacterium, and Halomonas were seen in the tumor[40]. Subsequently, studies done on H. Pylori-infected patients have shown that eradicating the infection resulted in a significant decrease in gastric cancer occurrence compared to the patients who did not receive treatment for eradication[41]. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection has also been shown to increase the risk of gastric cancer by 18fold. Even though the prevalence of EBV is higher in men than women, the prevalence of gastric cancer related to EBV has been higher in women[42].

Of the many types of human papillomavirus (HPV), more than 30 infect the genital tract. The association between certain oncogenic (high-risk) strains of HPV and cervical cancer is well established[43]. HPV 16 and 18 are the main causative organisms for cervical cancer, which is one of the leading causes of death for women worldwide. The HPV early region (E) oncoproteins are linked to etiopathogenesis and aid in cancer development. Li et al., in their meta-analysis, found that HPV infection was linked to a higher incidence of esophageal SCC[44]. Since the prevalence of high-risk HPV infection is higher in regions with an elevated risk for esophageal cancer compared to low-moderate risk regions, it is possible that HPV infection plays a role in esophageal carcinogenesis. High-risk HPV subtypes can be particularly taken into consideration among risk factors; however, more research would be needed to establish the link between HPV and esophageal cancer[45].

3. Impact of Microbiome Dysbiosis on cancer metabolism

Host gut microbiome alterations influence cancer progression and metabolism through various multifaceted mechanisms. These mechanisms can foster a tumor microenvironment, enhance or inhibit treatment efficacy, create unique tumor-specific microbial profiles, and contain carcinogenic-metabolite-producing bacteria. Changes in the diversity and composition of gut microbiota are associated with cancer. Certain microbial species or communities may either promote cancer or protect against it. For instance, high microbial diversity and alterations in the gut microbiota are linked to CRC patients. They exacerbate cancer development through chronic gut inflammation from dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, and further contribute to the tumorigenic microenvironment. The effects of gut microbial changes can produce carcinogenic metabolites as a byproduct, which further contribute to cancer development and risk. Imbalances of these metabolites include alterations in genotoxic metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and bile acids, which directly damage DNA, contributing to cancer progression[46]. Microbial pathogens also influence carcinogenesis by inducing or exacerbating inflammatory processes. For example, Lactobacillus iners, a bacterium commonly found in tumors, has been associated with a more hostile tumor environment through changes in metabolism and an increased resistance to chemoradiation therapy. The bacterium produces high lactate levels in a tumor microenvironment that causes metabolic changes within tumor cells[47]. The changes involve altering energy production pathways and enhancing their ability to survive and resist treatment. Further research is needed to investigate the mechanistic alterations within these pathways.

Furthermore, researchers have looked at the liver to provide potential therapeutic targets against host-microbiome tumorigenesis as it is largely involved in bile acid metabolism. Feng et al. highlighted the bidirectional relationship between the liver and the gut microbiome in response to changes in bile acid production and metabolism, contributing to the progression of cancer cachexia, a complex syndrome in cancer patients, including weight loss and malnutrition[48]. Galeano et al. used imaging and molecular techniques to analyze various cancer tumor samples to create a map of the spatial distribution of microbial species to understand the tumor microenvironment. Different microbial species were localized in distinct regions of the tumor. The presence of certain microorganisms influenced growth patterns, immune cell interactions, and resistance to treatment[49]. High microbial diversity is associated with greater cellular and spatial heterogeneity that causes changes in tumor cell characteristics[49]. The microbial communities within tumors impact how a tumor develops and responds to treatment, thus serving as a potential target against microbiota-resistant treatment. Additionally, Yachida et al. examined gut microbiota changes at different stages of CRC using metagenomic and metabolomic analyses to understand the relationship between microbial communities and cancer progression. Their results showed alterations of metabolic activity by distinct microbial communities in the early and late stages of CRC, suggesting cancer progression may result from stage-specific microbial metabolic products. Identifying microbiota profiles at different stages could be used as biomarkers and targeted therapeutics for CRC[50].

4. Factors Influencing Cancer Progression

Genetic and environmental factors increase the risk of cancer progression due to microbial changes. The microbiome can influence the host’s genetic and epigenetic landscape, creating microbial metabolites and interactions that can lead to genetic mutations or epigenetic modifications, further increasing cancer susceptibility. High-fat and cholesterol diets contribute to the development of fatty liver diseases. The gut microbiota plays an important role in the progression of fatty liver disease to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Zhang et al. showed alterations in the gut microbiota due to dietary cholesterol influencing metabolite production during metabolism and further exacerbating cancer development and inflammation[50].

Concerning immune system modulators, specific microbial profiles regulate the immune responses by interacting with the T cells and macrophages of the host immune system, thereby influencing tumor development. These. Interestingly, researchers have also found that microbial-immune modulation can inhibit or enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. For example, some bacteria might boost the efficacy of checkpoint inhibitors by promoting a more robust anti-tumor immune response. At the same time, some weaken the efficacy and metabolism of chemotherapeutic agents and targeted therapies by microbial enzymes, which metabolize these drugs into more or less active forms. This is how host metabolites communicate with host cellular pathways involved in drug metabolism and cancer development, such as signaling pathways that cause tumor growth. Microbial alterations can disrupt the integrity of the gut barrier, leading to greater systemic inflammation and a reduction in treatment responsiveness and the body’s overall immune function [50].

Host-microbiome interactions play a large role in cancer progression, especially lung and intestinal cancer. Dong et al. investigated the diverse microbial communities in the lung, gut, and oral cavity of lung cancer patients to examine new strategies for cancer prevention. Alterations in the microbiota can influence immune responses within the lung, thus advancing tumor development and resistance to immunotherapy. Personalized medicine approaches to enhance treatment efficacy are important against harmful microbial communities harboring the tumor microenvironment[51]. These mechanisms illustrate the complex interplay between gut microbiome and cancer, illustrating how microbial composition, metabolism, immune modulation, and inflammation exacerbate cancer progression. Identifying specific microbial profiles and restoring a healthy microbiome balance can help prevent or treat certain cancers.

5. Microbiota dysbiosis in Cancer & Mechanism of Microbial Oncogenesis

Microbiota dysbiosis is defined as an imbalance in the microbial communities within the body, which mainly includes bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms[52]. The gut microbiome is crucial in regulating the immune system. Dysbiosis has gained widespread recognition as a significant factor in the development of various types of cancer by causing chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation[53]. Some of the microbes have a direct correlation with specific cancers. Helicobacter pylori, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and Fusobacterium nucleatum are associated with gastric adenocarcinoma, cervical cancer, and colorectal cancer, respectively[54,55,56]. In addition, microbiota-related metabolites have also been associated with cancer development. The production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) is protective due to their anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties; however, with dysbiosis, there is a decrease in the level, which subsequently leads to an increase in harmful metabolites such as secondary bile acids[57]. These secondary bile acids cause DNA damage, promote inflammation, and generate reactive oxygen species, thereby contributing to carcinogenesis[58]. In addition, they also activate various signaling pathways such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-KB) and WNT, both of which are involved in cellular proliferation and survival, further promoting tumorigenesis[59]. This has been implicated in the development of liver and colorectal cancers.

5.1. Contact-dependent mechanism

The contact-dependent mechanism of microbial oncogenesis involving the gut microbiome is an interplay between host factors and the gut microbiome. It mainly includes interbacterial signaling, cellular adhesion, and invasion. The initial step of gut colonization occurs because of the interaction between the pathogen and the host components, such as cell surfaces and extracellular matrices [60]. This is followed by using proteins that deliver toxins to neighboring bacteria, leading to growth inhibition and changes in genetic expression [61]. Recent studies have discussed the role of bacterial protein and molecular trafficking in modifying the gut microbiome, ultimately influencing cancer development. Garcia-Bayona et al. stated the contact-dependent mechanism for some bacteria, like Caulobacter crescentus [62]. In addition, fungal infections caused by Candida albicans also involve kinase activation through physical contact, which leads to invasive growth and biofilm development [63]. Liang et al. 2014 described the development of colorectal cancer in a mouse model with colitis, thereby highlighting the role of inflammation in gut microbial composition [64].

5.2. Contact-independent mechanism

Recent studies have highlighted contact-independent mechanisms of microbial carcinogenesis that do not require direct physical interaction between microbes and host cells. These mechanisms include modulation of inflammation, DNA damage, chronic inflammation, and harmful bacterial metabolites. Additionally, recent studies have mentioned the influence of gut microbiomes on gut epithelia with a prior predisposition of mutant p53 activity [65]. An important consideration for colonization resistance in gut microbiota is the interplay between the contact-dependent and contact-independent mechanisms facilitated by molecular trafficking [66]. This has been implicated in promoting tumorigeneses in various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma and colorectal cancer [67].

5.3. Immunological mechanisms

Immunological factors also play a key role in microbial carcinogenesis in the gut microbiome. Recent studies have highlighted the impact of gut microbiome on the host immune regulation, thereby influencing disease outcomes and leading to cancer development [68]. An important factor that has led to cancer development is the disruption in the immune surveillance mechanism. Understanding the complex interaction between microbial species and innate and acquired immunity is important. Tekle et al. talk about the various immune mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis[69]. Dendritic cells and molecular processes like mitophagy and apoptosis have been postulated to play a key role in microbial carcinogenesis[70]. After interacting with particular bacteria, the dendritic cells from the gut-associated lymphoid tissue and spleen activate the type 1 interferon (IFN) mediated signaling, leading to tumorigenesis[69]. Regarding molecular processes like mitophagy and apoptosis, Roberti et al. found that gut microbiota can enhance these processes, contributing to great carcinogenesis[71].

6. Biomarkers – Current microbiota markers in clinical practice

The growing clinical use of microbiota markers is important due to their ability to help diagnose and treat conditions. Microbiota markers have become a frontier in research when it comes to carcinoma. They can be used to diagnose and treat a wide range of diseases, potentially improving public health outcomes in the future. Certain bacteria seem to interact with the oral epithelial cells to cause cancer, including P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum, as they stimulate cell growth [72]. The role of the microbiome in cancer remains unclear overall; however, we do see an elevation or reduction in the level of bacteria when carcinoma is present[72]. A known mechanism that makes the likelihood of cancer higher is the administration of antibiotics. When they are administered, antibiotics replace the previous microbiota, rearranging the gut and acting as a potential risk factor for the development of certain forms of cancer. In liver cancer, Akkermansia mucinphila, and Facalibacterium are elevated. In lymphoma, for example, Ruminococcus is elevated. These bacteria are known as responders-enriched bacteria. Probiotics, too, are involved in the development of cancer. In the modern day, selective antibiotics are used to negate the risk of the destruction of beneficial bacteria in the gut [73].

On the other hand, some bacteria have an overall benefit when dealing with cancer. These include Bifidobacteria longum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Saccharomyces boulardii. They contain SCFA, Vitamins, antioxidants, and glucosinolates. These limit pathogen growth, reduce DNA damage and inflammation, and hinder tumor growth. On the flip side, in our diet, we find that there may be E. coli, Salmonella enterica, and Fusobacterium nucleatum, which, on the other hand, lead to increased tumor growth, DNA alkylation, DNA damage, and inflammation [74]. In addition to the specific bacterial correlation, a link exists between the microbiome's diversity and cancer development. People migrating to the West have witnessed a noticeable decline in gut microbiome diversity. Furthermore, the overexpression of certain bacteria is a key indicator to understand the cancer stage. In some other cancers like adrenocortical carcinoma, studies have shown a correlation between Bacteroides, Streptomyces, and the chance of survival. The microbiome plays a crucial role in not only indicating cancer and its potential stage but also in its role of survival and treatment [72].

7. Treatment:

Multiple treatment modalities have been described in the literature with a prime focus on the gut microbiota—these range from pharmacological agents like antibiotics to dietary interventions like probiotics and prebiotics. Certain biotherapeutic modalities, such as fecal microbiota transplantation, have also gained widespread attention and need special mention.

7.1. Antibiotics

Bacterial association with systemic lymphoid tissue has sparked research on microbial alteration as a potent immunotherapeutic tactic. Early research shows that intratumoral microbiota is prevalent and immunologically active in most patients, underscoring the need to consider the microbial environment and its interactions[75,76]. For instance, in pancreatic cancer, changes in gut microbiota may impact the intratumoral microbiome's makeup through pancreatic duct communication [77]. On the other hand, antibiotics have a variety of consequences. When used to clear the pancreatic intratumoral microbiome, they paradoxically increase the efficacy of immunotherapy by upregulating PD-1 expression, even though they may compromise the immune response by disturbing the gut microbiome. Antimicrobial therapy for cancer involves using medications such as antibiotics, antivirals, and vaccines against hepatitis B and human papillomavirus. The focus for such treatment regimens is microbiological carcinogens, like the Hepatitis C virus and H. pylori, which can cause stomach lymphomas [78,79]. According to studies done on pancreatic, lung, and colon malignancies, eliminating the intratumoral microbiota may alter the tumor microenvironment (TME) from immunogenic to tolerogenic by reducing inflammation that impedes tumor growth and slows down cellular division [80,81,82]. Clinical evidence indicates systemic antibiotics may lower survival rates and undermine immune checkpoint inhibitors' efficacy. Preclinical evidence suggests that antibiotics or gut bacterial translocation may trigger leukemic development in genetically vulnerable hosts with hematologic malignancies [83].

7.2. Nutrition, postbiotics, and probiotics

A few practical strategies for modifying the microbiota are using postbiotics, prebiotics, and modifying diet. Despite the prevalence of epidemiological correlations, the exact mechanisms linking certain foods to cancer remain unclear due to challenges in collecting dietary data. Prebiotics with promising results in preclinical models, like resistant starch, inulin, and mucin, are currently being studied in humans to see their impact. In melanoma and colon cancer, they have enhanced the antitumor immunity and the therapeutic response (e.g., NCT03870607, NCT03950635). Chemicals derived from microbes may have advantages in composition and repeatability despite postbiotics receiving less scientific attention. Because of their potential modes of action and associated safety concerns, probiotics, described as live microorganisms offering health advantages when taken in moderation, have garnered a lot of attention in the setting of CRC. Probiotics were first thought to alter gut flora [84,85]. However, in addition to changing the microbiota, their role now includes altering it to suit the host's physiology and metabolism. They can produce lactic and acetic acid, or bacteriocins, which limit bacterial development and lower the pH. In addition, they also interact directly with lethal bacteria to restrict their growth [86]. Probiotics have an immunomodulatory effect in the gut and can either improve immunosurveillance or alter colonic inflammation, depending on the specific activity of each strain. They have been shown by Klaenhammer et al. to alter macrophage subsets and decrease colonic inflammation[87]. By binding with toll-like receptors (TLRs), specific probiotic strains of Bifidobacterium infantis and Bifidobacterium breve stimulate intestinal dendritic cells (DCs), eliciting the expression of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg), type 1 regulatory T cells (Tr1) and stimulating the release of IL-10. They also trigger the metabolism of retinoid acid. Other probiotic bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, can block STAT3 and NF-κB signaling to limit Th17 cell production, release IL23 and IL17, and promote a shift in macrophage phenotype from pro-inflammatory M1 to immunosuppressive M2. Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Escherichia coli, improve the integrity of the gut barrier by upregulating the synthesis of mucin and the expression of tight junction proteins [88,89,90,91,92]. Several studies have shown that probiotics reduce the colonization of pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Clostridium difficile, which supports their utility in preventing intestinal infections [93,94]. The usefulness of probiotics in treating and preventing colorectal cancer has been the subject of numerous studies. A meta-analysis of data from multiple trials revealed a significant association between probiotic consumption and a decreased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) [86].

7.3. Transplantation of Fecal Microbiota and Identified Microbial Consortiums

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), specified microbial consortia, and commercial probiotics are three ways to modulate the gut microbiota in cancer patients. FMT, a recently developed biotherapeutic modality, restores microbial equilibrium in patients with microbial dysbiosis by introducing a disease-free, healthy microbial population from healthy donors. It appears to have some potential in treating colitis linked to immunotherapy and is useful in treating Clostridium difficile-induced colitis. However, its stability and long-term effectiveness need to be studied extensively [95,96]. According to clinical trials, FMT from donors who respond to immunotherapy may improve anticancer immune responses (e.g., NCT03353402) [97]. Microbial consortia, ranging from complex consortia to monoclonal bacterial strains, are also being evaluated in trials. Several microbial metabolites, including cadaverine, indoles, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and nisin, have been shown to have anticancer properties in breast cancer cases [98].

Probiotics may increase the risk of bacterial translocation and systemic invasion in patients with weakened immune systems. There have also been reports of CMV infection following FMT, norovirus gastroenteritis, and Escherichia coli bacteremia [99,100]. Unknown components transferred during FMT provide a risk of changing the recipient's microbiota and perhaps causing chronic illnesses. Research has demonstrated that pro-atherogenic trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) synthesis and metabolic phenotypes associated with obesity are transferred from donors to recipients [86,101]. Due to the paucity of clinical data, long-term follow-ups are required to establish causality. Despite these concerns, FMT is better than transient therapies like probiotics and prebiotics because it has advantages over other modulation tactics, including higher microbial diversity, less disruption of gut ecology than antibiotics, and the possibility for long-term engraftment[86].

7.4. Utilizing Exogenous Microbiota in Cancer Therapy

The creation of exogenous bacteria and viruses for cancer treatment has advanced significantly. Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC) for metastatic melanoma and Mycobacterium bovis (BCG vaccination) for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer are two notable FDA-approved treatments. Oncolytic viruses are covered in depth elsewhere, but it is essential to understand that synthetic biological methods that reduce systemic toxicities and boost local antitumor immunity and bacterial cancer treatments (BCTs) are receiving widespread attention. Clinical trials (e.g., NCT04167137) are investigating the potential of BCT drugs despite regulatory obstacles; however, commercial feasibility is still a barrier[102]. Because engineered microorganisms naturally target tumor tissues, they hold considerable promise as cancer therapy. When given intratumorally or intravenously, this tumor tropism causes an approximately 10,000-fold concentration of microorganisms in tumors compared to the liver, spleen, and lungs [103]. Using this, scientists have created a unique therapeutic strategy in which these tumor-homing bacteria deliver deadly chemicals[57]. Using several delivery methods, genetically engineered strains of Salmonella, Bifidobacterium, Listeria, Clostridium, Shigella, Lactococcus, Vibrio, and Escherichia have shown anticancer effects in preclinical mice[103]. While some treatment modalities use bacteria as "intratumoral bioreactors" to continually generate and release therapeutic compounds extracellularly during colonization, others involve the intracellular delivery of medications via phagocytic absorption. One noteworthy technique is engineered bacterial lysis, which minimizes colony size and lowers systemic toxicity by releasing therapeutic proteins only when the bacterial population reaches a particular density [104]. To release chemokines, hemolysins, or pro-apoptotic proteins cyclically within the tumor microenvironment (TME), for example, Din et al. modified non-pathogenic E. coli and Salmonella to lyse at a threshold population density [104].

7.5. Intratumoral Microbiota's Impact in Boosting Antitumor Immunity

Through several processes, the intratumoral microbiota is essential for boosting antitumor immunity and the effectiveness of immunotherapy. These processes demonstrate how important the intratumoral microbiota is for boosting anticancer immunity and enhancing immunotherapy's effectiveness [105].

a)

Intratumoral Bifidobacterium can activate dendritic cells (DCs) through the STING signaling pathway. Furthermore, A. muciniphila can create STING agonists, which cause intratumoral monocytes to secrete IFN-I. This procedure increases communication between natural killer (NK) cells and DCs further encouraging macrophage conversion [106].

b)

T and NK Cell Activation: By encouraging the recruitment and activation of CD8+ T cells, several intratumoral microbiota, including Saccharopolyspora, Lachnoclostridium, EBV, and HBV, improve antitumor immunity. Patients survive longer because of this activation, mediated by chemokines produced from the intratumoral microbiome such as CXCL9, CXCL10, and CCL5[106]. Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) generated from Clostridiales can cause PERK-mediated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which can result in more CD8+ T cell-mediated antitumor immunity and tumor cell pyroptosis. Furthermore, NK cell activity is improved, and tumor regression is induced by increased levels of Bifidobacterium in intratumoral areas, which is caused by an elevated by-product in the diet called Hippurate[106,107].

c)

Production of Tertiary Lymphoid Structures (TLS): The development of TLS is caused by intratumoral H. hepaticus, which stimulates anticancer immune responses dependent on Tfh- and B-cells [108].

d)

The presentation of intratumoral microbiota-derived antigen: DCs or tumor cells can ensnare bacterial antigens, further activating T-cell responses specific to the tumor [106,107].

7.6. Human Microbiota's Therapeutic Effect in Skin Cancer

To control the tumor microenvironment and affect the growth, spread, and response to treatment, the human microbiome is essential. Several promising treatment approaches are developing, most notably the regulation of skin and gut dysbiosis by prebiotics and probiotics [109]. In this context, prebiotics—which are substrates that host bacteria specifically use for advantageous effects—and probiotics—which are live microorganisms good for the skin or intestinal flora—offer great promise [109]. According to clinical data, oral probiotics are effective in treating various gastrointestinal (GI) conditions, including GI malignancies [110]. These probiotics reduce symptoms related to GI malignancies and have antiproliferative or pro-apoptotic actions[88,110,111]. For instance, oral administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG dramatically decreased the incidence of GI cancer in high-risk people, according to a clinical trial conducted by Smith et al. Combining Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics relieved GI cancer-related symptoms and shrunk tumor size, according to another study by Johnson et al. Furthermore, repairing the microbiota in the stomach can indirectly help dermatological problems like psoriasis, acne, and atopic dermatitis[108]. Clinical trials have demonstrated oral probiotics to considerably lessen the severity of atopic dermatitis symptoms in young individuals [112]. Additionally, research by Lee et al. showed that supplementing with probiotics significantly improved adult patients' acne severity levels.

Skin and/or gut microbiota disturbances are associated with the development of skin cancer, particularly when UV radiation is present. Recent research has demonstrated the ability of oral probiotics to counteract UV-induced immunosuppression and slow the growth of skin tumors [110]. For example, Wang et al.'s randomized controlled experiment discovered that probiotics taken orally significantly decreased the incidence of UV-induced skin tumors in mice. According to another clinical trial by Kim et al., probiotic supplementation boosted human subjects' immune responses against UV-induced skin damage. Topical probiotics have also shown promise in treating various skin conditions by directly affecting the skin microbiome. For example, topical application of specific probiotics improved conditions like atopic dermatitis and acne and decreased pathogen colonization on the skin [107]. Although clinical studies on the direct effects of topical probiotics on skin cancer are lacking, their potential mechanisms include modulating the skin and intratumoral microenvironment, enhancing immune surveillance, and suppressing chronic inflammation [107].

In conclusion, the therapeutic impact of human microbiota, particularly through probiotics, shows promising potential in managing skin cancer and related dermatological conditions. Further clinical trials are warranted to validate these findings and explore the optimal probiotic formulations and dosages for maximal therapeutic benefits.

8. Environmental risk factors influencing microorganisms-cancer interactions

Environmental factors highly influence the interplay between gut microbiome and cancer metabolism. They play a key role in shaping the microbiome's composition and function, thereby affecting the carcinogenesis process [111]. An important environmental risk factor is diet which has a direct effect on the diversity of gut microbiome [112]. Diets rich in high fat and low fiber have been linked to microbial dysbiosis, leading to inflammation and carcinogenesis. Dietary fiber gets fermented by gut bacteria into butyrate, which reduces the risk of colorectal cancer [113]. This alteration impacts the metabolic pathways involved in the Warburg effect, where cancer cells use glycolysis to generate energy over oxidative phosphorylation, even in the presence of oxygen [112,114]. Diet-induced alteration in the gut microbiome modulates tumor etiology, progression, and response to cancer treatment [115].

Another crucial environmental factor to note is the presence of environmental pollutants and toxins. These include heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants that act through complex mechanisms to cause tumorigenesis [116,117]. An important pollutant to consider is polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), which promote a pro-inflammatory environment [118]. Consequently, it is essential to understand the crucial role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in metabolizing PAHs into carcinogenic metabolites [119]. These metabolites cause carcinogenesis through mechanisms that are still under investigation. Subsequently, an important consideration is a synergistic interaction between different pollutants, even at low concentrations, that cause carcinogenesis by producing reactive oxygen species and activating AhR [120]. Clause et al. 2016 highlighted the relationship between gut microbiome and environmental pollutants which have been found to contribute to their toxicity [121].

Factors such as physical activity and stress also play a crucial role in the link between gut microbiome and carcinogenesis [122]. Regular physical exercise is known to have a positive impact on the gut microbiota, reducing the level of inflammation and risk of cancer [123,124]. Studies have found that chronic psychological stress leads to alteration in the microbiome, increases intestinal permeability, promotes systemic inflammation, and metabolic derangements leading to cancer progression [125,126]. Furthermore, these changes alter the signaling molecules that drive the Warburg effect, leading to carcinogenesis [127]. Understanding these environmental risk factors that modulate the gut microbiome is quintessential. Addressing these factors through lifestyle modifications may possibly counteract the Warburg effect.

9. Limitations of this review and future directions:

Much research has been done on the role of gut microbiome in cancer metabolism and the Warburg effect. However, some limitations need special mention. Many microorganisms have been identified that influence cancer metabolism, but the scientific community has still not been able to pinpoint specific bacteria or microbial metabolites that impact cancer metabolism[128,129,130]. From an individual standpoint, there is significant variability in diet, genetics, lifestyle, and environment, complicating the ability to generalize findings and postulate a universal understanding of all types of cancers[131,132]. We still have not reached a stage where we can decipher the combination of factors that could lead to cancer development in a specific individual. Several studies have explained the correlation between gut microbiome alterations and cancer development. Still, we cannot identify molecular and cellular mechanisms, particularly regarding cancer treatment[131]. This necessitates the need for more in-depth studies at the molecular level to elucidate the exact mechanism. Most of the studies have been done on animal models, particularly mice, which may not fully replicate human physiology, and their relevance to humans is questionable. This is due to the inherent difference between human and murine gut microbiome. The translation from animal studies to human clinical studies demands careful validation to ensure strict adherence to ethical standards[133].

It is important to realize the importance of future research using advanced metagenomic techniques to understand the correlation between gut microbiome and cancer development[134,135]. This will aid in identifying specific microbes and their metabolites that are involved in causing cancer. In addition, it is important to understand the temporal relationship between gut microbiota and cancer development, for which large-scale, longitudinal cohort studies would be required[136]. In vitro and in vivo experiments focusing on cancer cell metabolic pathways must be conducted[137]to understand the mechanism better. We need to reach a stage where we can develop a personalized microbiome-based treatment regimen tailored to the individual’s microbiome and cancer type, possibly by using custom-designed probiotics or specific microbiota transplantation[50,138]. Further progress in cancer treatment also demands well-designed clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of microbiome-targeted cancer treatment. Such a holistic approach will help the scientific community progress in combating cancer and improving overall patient outcomes.

Figure 1. The gut microbiome affects body physiology: The gut microbiome regulates physiology by modulating energy intake (nutrient digestion), energy expenditure (thermogenesis), glucose, amino acid, and lipid metabolism.

Figure 1. The gut microbiome affects body physiology: The gut microbiome regulates physiology by modulating energy intake (nutrient digestion), energy expenditure (thermogenesis), glucose, amino acid, and lipid metabolism.