Abstract

The human microbiome, comprising diverse microbial communities inhabiting various body sites, plays a crucial role in modulating host physiology and immune responses. Emerging evidence suggests that alterations in the microbiome composition and function can significantly influence oncogenesis and cancer progression through intricate mechanisms. This abstract explores the current understanding of microbiome-driven oncogenesis, focusing on the mechanistic insights into how microbial dysbiosis contributes to cancer initiation, promotion, and metastasis. Key mechanisms include the production of genotoxic metabolites, modulation of immune responses, and alteration of epithelial barrier function, all of which can create a pro-inflammatory and tumor-permissive microenvironment. Moreover, microbial dysbiosis has been implicated in promoting oncogenic signaling pathways and resistance to cancer therapies, thereby complicating treatment outcomes.