Unraveling gut microbiome interferences in cancer immunotherapy: a meta-analysis of diverse drug effects
Abstract
Recent advancements in tumor therapy have centered on novel treatments, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), which have transformed cancer treatment since their global approval in 2011. ICIs have demonstrated remarkable and substantial efficacy across a range of malignancies, including malignant melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), head and neck cancers, renal carcinoma, and selected gastrointestinal cancers. Despite these promising outcomes, the challenges that during the clinical application, such as relatively low response rates and the occurrence of immune-related adverse events, can limit therapeutic benefits. Accumulating evidence highlights the gut microbiome as a critical modulator of cancer immunotherapy efficacy. Notably, alterations in gut microbiota composition observed in response to ICI therapy, and specific bacterial populations (such as an increased Clostridiales/ Baceroidales ratio, etc.) have been associated with improved responses in patients with NSCLC and renal cell carcinoma. However, the composition and function of the gut microbiome are influenced by a variety of factors, among which concomitant drug use plays a particularly prominent role. Medications commonly prescribed to cancer patients, such as antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and probiotics, can significantly alter microbial communities, potentially impacting immunotherapy outcomes. Thus, there is a compelling need for rigorous research to elucidate how such…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 22,568 participants or records.
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