Exploring Gut Microbiome Composition and Circulating Microbial DNA Fragments in Patients with Stage II/III Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Analysis.

Simple Summary: This study delves into how the community of microorganisms residing in the gut, known as the gut microbiome, can aid in understanding and predicting colorectal cancer (CRC). Through the examination of fecal and blood samples from 142 patients with stage II/III CRC and 91 reference controls, we observed that patients with CRC exhibit distinct gut microbe compositions in comparison to the control group. Additionally, we pinpoint specific microbial DNA fragments in the blood of patients with CRC. These findings imply that the gut microbiome could potentially serve as a marker for detecting CRC and predicting its prognosis. This potential could pave the way for personalized treatment strategies for patients, potentially diminishing healthcare expenses and enhancing outcomes. Nonetheless, further research is necessary to validate these findings and understand how the gut microbiome affects CRC. Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) significantly contributes to cancer-related mortality, necessitating the exploration of prognostic factors beyond TNM staging. This study investigates the composition of the gut microbiome and microbial DNA fragments in stage II/III CRC. Methods: A cohort of 142 patients with stage II/III CRC and 91 healthy controls underwent comprehensive microbiome analysis. Fecal samples were collected for 16S rRNA sequencing, and blood samples were tested for the presence of microbial DNA fragments. De novo clustering analysis categorized individuals based on their microbial profiles. Alpha and beta diversity metrics were calculated, and taxonomic profiling was conducted. Results: Patients with CRC exhibited distinct microbial composition compared to controls. Beta diversity analysis confirmed CRC-specific microbial profiles. Taxonomic profiling revealed unique taxonomies in the patient cohort. De novo clustering separated individuals into distinct groups, with specific microbial DNA fragment detection associated with certain patient clusters. Conclusions: The gut microbiota can differentiate patients with CRC from healthy individuals. Detecting microbial DNA fragments in the bloodstream may be linked to CRC prognosis. These findings suggest that the gut microbiome could serve as a prognostic factor in stage II/III CRC. Identifying specific microbial markers associated with CRC prognosis has potential clinical implications, including personalized treatment strategies and reduced healthcare costs. Further research is needed to validate these findings and uncover underlying mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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