The Emerging Role of the Microbiota in Breast Cancer Progression

Abstract

Emerging evidence suggests a profound association between the microbiota composition in the gastrointestinal tract and breast cancer progression. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in modulating the immune response, releasing metabolites, and modulating estrogen levels, all of which have implications for breast cancer growth. However, recent research has unveiled a novel aspect of the relationship between the microbiota and breast cancer, focusing on microbes residing within the mammary tissue, which was once considered sterile. These localized microbial communities have been found to change in the presence of a tumor as compared to healthy mammary tissue, unraveling their potential contribution to tumor progression. Studies have identified specific bacterial species that are enriched within breast tumors and have highlighted the mechanisms by which even these microbes influence cancer progression through immune modulation, direct carcinogenic activity, and effects on cellular pathways involved in cell proliferation or apoptosis. This review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge on the mechanisms of crosstalk between the gut/mammary microbiota and breast cancer. Understanding this intricate interplay holds promise for developing innovative therapeutic approaches.