The study begins by highlighting the significant global burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) and the role of gut microbiota, particularly oncomicrobes, in CRC development. The researchers propose that vaccines targeting these oncomicrobes could offer a novel approach to cancer prevention and treatment. They conducted experiments using two mouse models: a preventive model targeting C. jejuni and a therapeutic model targeting ETBF. The vaccines were shown to elicit strong immune responses, reduce oncomicrobial colonization, and suppress tumorigenesis. The study also examined the impact of the vaccines on gut microbiota composition and found minimal disruption, suggesting that the vaccines could be safe and effective.
Key findings from the study include:
The study demonstrates that oncomicrobial vaccines targeting C. jejuni and ETBF can effectively reduce the colonization of these cancer-promoting microbes, suppress tumor development, and mitigate inflammation in mouse models. Importantly, the vaccines did not significantly disrupt the gut microbiota, suggesting they could be safe for clinical use. These findings highlight the potential of oncomicrobial vaccines as a novel strategy for preventing and treating colorectal cancer, particularly in high-risk individuals. Further research is needed to translate these findings into effective human therapies, but the results are promising for the development of targeted cancer vaccines. The work entitled “ Oncomicrobial vaccines mitigate tumor progression via precisely targeting oncomicrobes in mice ” was published on Protein & Cell (published on Jan. 7, 2025).
Protein & Cell
Experimental study
Animals
Oncomicrobial vaccines mitigate tumor progression via precisely targeting oncomicrobes in mice
7-Jan-2025