What Are the Mechanisms Behind Microbiome Influence on Cancer?
The mechanisms through which the gut microbiome influences cancer are multifaceted. One key mechanism is inflammation. Certain gut bacteria can trigger chronic inflammation, which is a known risk factor for various types of cancer. Another mechanism involves the immune system; the gut microbiome can either enhance or suppress immune responses, affecting the body's ability to fight cancer cells. Additionally, some gut bacteria can metabolize dietary components into compounds that have either protective or harmful effects on cancer development.
