Fusobacterium nucleatum and the Immune System in Colorectal Cancer

AbstractPurpose of ReviewTo summarize the relationship between colorectal cancer (CRC), immunity, and the gut microbiome, focusing on the population ofFusobacterium, particularlyFusobacterium nucleatum, which may mediate CRC initiation and progression by inhibiting host anti-tumor immunity.Recent FindingsThe onset and advancement of CRC involves genetic and epigenetic alterations and are modified by dietary and environmental factors. There is increasing evidence suggesting that gut bacteria, such asFusobacterium nucleatum, may promote CRC development. The mechanisms through whichFusobacterium nucleatum from the oral cavity colonizes the gut mucosa and affect CRC development and progression remain unclear. Data from metagenomics analyses have shown an enrichment ofFusobacterium nucleatum in CRC tissues, which has been confirmed by quantitative PCR for the 16S ribosomal RNA gene DNA sequence ofFusobacterium nucleatum. Recent studies also suggest thatFusobacterium nucleatum may preferentially bind to cancerous cells, aided by Annexin A1, specifically expressed in proliferating CRC cells. This is consistent with a previous report that althoughFusobacterium nucleatum is detected in both colorectal adenoma and adenocarcinoma tissues, the fadA gene levels are significantly higher in the latter than in the former. Other potential mechanisms include the ability of Fusobacterium to produce cancer-associated metabolites or genotoxic factors and possibly a direct interaction with the hos...
Source: Current Colorectal Cancer Reports - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research