Gut microbiota and colorectal cancer liver metastasis: mechanisms and therapeutic interventions
10.3760/cma.j.cn112309-20240613-00214
- VernacularTitle:肠道菌群、肠-肝轴与结直肠癌肝转移：机制和治疗
- Author:
Jialin SHEN
1
;
Xiaoying ZHAO
;
Cheng ZHOU
;
Yuyuan MA
;
Lin YANG
;
Qing JI
;
Haijuan XIAO
Author Information
1. 陕西中医药大学第一临床医学院，咸阳 712046
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Gut microbiota;
Gut-liver axis;
Intestinal barrier;
Liver metastasis;
Fecal microbiota transplantation
- From:
Chinese Journal of Microbiology and Immunology
2025;45(7):619-625
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
The intestine and liver are closely connected both physiologically and pathologically, forming a so-called gut-liver axis, with the gut microbiota serving as a pivotal link in their bidirectional communication. Gut microbiota dysbiosis and gut-liver axis disruption play a key role in the development and progression of colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM), though the underlying mechanisms have not been clearly elucidated. Certain gut microbiota, such as Escherichia coli and Enterococcus spp., can breach the intestinal barrier and translocate to the liver, promoting the formation of pre-metastatic niche. Fusobacterium nucleatum and Enterococcus faecalis enhance tumor cell invasion/migration, while Parabacteroides spp. suppress anti-tumor immunity in the liver TME. Interventions like fecal microbiota transplantation, dietary modifications, and traditional Chinese medicine have shown potential in clinical and preclinical studies to improve patient outcomes by targeting the gut microbiota, but their long-term efficacy and safety require further investigation. Future research should focus on elucidating the effects of specific bacterial species, metabolites, viruses, and fungi on tumorigenesis. Exploring the potential of gut microbiota-based precision medicine and personalized therapies will improve risk stratification and enable more targeted interventions for CRLM patients.
