By understanding the gut microbiome, it can lead to preventive care for colorectal cancer

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is the second most prevalent cancer in the world. Preventative measures can be taken, such as a colonoscopy, even though they are invasive. In this minireview, we are looking at a study that analyzes the gut microbiome of patients that are healthy, has advanced adenoma, or have carcinoma. Metagenomic sequencing is performed on fecal samples to analyze the bacteria present in the gut. Correlations and relationships are made between each of the samples. A difference in the bacterial composition is observed when all three groups are compared to one another. This includes a linkage between enriched bacterial samples from carcinoma patients and the likelihood of inflammation.  As well as a difference in transport and synthesis genes of amino acids if detected within the different stages of these cancers. Diet, obesity, and smoking can negatively affect the gut microbiome which can lead to the formation of colorectal cancer. The goal was to analyze these differences within the guts of health, adenoma, and carcinoma patients to potentially generate a less invasive preventative method for catching colorectal cancer.