The Role of Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis in Colorectal Cancer: Correlation, Molecular Mechanisms, and Probiotic Potential

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 Department of Systems Biotechnology, Institute of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran

10.30476/acrr.2026.108544.1264

Abstract

The gut microbiome is an extensive and vital community of microbes in the gastrointestinal tract which is
crucial for human health as it creates beneficial compounds, aiding fiber digestion, and enhancing the immune
system. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and second leading cause of cancer‑related
death worldwide. This review aims to examine the link between gut microbiome imbalance (dysbiosis) and
CRC using epidemiological data and molecular mechanisms, emphasizing the significance of probiotic-based
therapy as a potential means of prevention and treatment. Probiotics have the ability to intervene by restoring
microbial equilibrium, reducing inflammation, and producing anti-tumor compounds. To collect information,
we used PubMed, Elsevier, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Embase, which provided access to a wide range of
peer-reviewed articles, case-control studies, and cohort studies essential for a comprehensive analysis of the
topic. In this review, key differences in microbiome composition between healthy individuals and patients
with CRC have been observed, including a decrease in beneficial butyrate-producing bacteria and an increase
in carcinogenic bacteria such as Fusobacterium nucleatum. The molecular mechanisms through which
dysbiosis accelerates carcinogenic process include the production of harmful metabolites, induction of chronic
inflammation, and modulation of the host immune system. Beneficial microorganisms known as probiotics
have been proposed as a promising therapeutic option. In conclusion, probiotics can prevent and treat CRC
through various mechanisms, such as boosting the immune system, competing with pathogenic bacteria, and
producing anticancer compounds including butyrate. However, challenges remain in this field, including high
variability across studies, a lack of long-term investigations, and the need to determine optimal dose and strain
for each individual. To overcome these obstacles, future research should move towards more comprehensive
studies and personalized treatments.

Highlights

Reza Nori (Google Scholar)

Parvin Shariati (Google Scholar)

Keywords


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