Researchers at the Netherlands Cancer Institute have made a groundbreaking discovery by compiling a detailed catalog of bacteria living in cancer metastases. This study sheds light on the complex relationship between bacteria and cancer, particularly in the context of metastasis. The findings highlight the potential significance of certain bacterial strains in promoting or suppressing tumor growth, providing valuable insights for developing innovative approaches to cancer treatment.
The Role of Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) in Cancer Development
One notable bacterial strain is Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn), which has been linked to various types of cancer, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Studies have shown that Fn plays a crucial role in the development of gastrointestinal cancers, particularly CRC, where it interacts with cancer cells to promote growth and metastasis. For instance, when Fn is introduced to certain CRC cell lines, it significantly stimulates their proliferation. However, this effect is not observed in non-CRC cell lines, indicating that the influence of Fn depends on tumor type.