Cancer Immunotherapy: Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Brings Light

Curr Treat Options Oncol. 2022 Dec;23(12):1777-1792. doi: 10.1007/s11864-022-01027-2. Epub 2022 Oct 24.

Abstract

Immunotherapy is revolutionizing tumor treatment by activating the immune response to tumors. Among them, immunotherapy represented by immune checkpoint inhibitors is considered to be a milestone in tumor treatment. It has revolutionized the management of advanced malignant tumors by activating T cells, promoting cytotoxic signaling pathways, and killing tumor cells, effectively improving the overall survival of patients. However, resistance to immunotherapy and immune-related adverse events remain challenges for immunotherapy. It has been demonstrated in previous studies that modulating intestinal microbiota can enhance immunotherapy response and reduce complications. Currently, the more mature method for microbiota regulation is fecal microbiota transplantation, which involves transfering a donor's microbiome to the recipient in the form of capsules or fecal microbiota suspension to restore the richness of the recipient's intestinal microbiota. In terms of cancer immunotherapy, fecal microbiota transplantation in patients who fail to respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors is expected to produce better prognosis for patients.

Keywords: Cancer; Fecal microbiota transplantation; Immune checkpoint inhibitors; Immunotherapy.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Fecal Microbiota Transplantation / adverse effects
  • Gastrointestinal Microbiome*
  • Humans
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
  • Immunotherapy / adverse effects
  • Neoplasms* / etiology
  • Neoplasms* / therapy

Substances

  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors