THE ROLE OF PROBIOTICS IN CANCER PREVENTION: A MINI-REVIEW OF THEIR MECHANISMS AND PROTECTIVE POTENTIAL


Cătălina IONESCU1,2*, Viorica RARINCA2,3,4, Mălina VISTERNICU2,3, Alin CIOBICA1,2,5,6, Fatima Zahra KAMAL7,8

Abstract. This mini-review summarizes the role of gut microbiota and probiotics in cancer prevention and treatment. The human gastrointestinal (GI) tract hosts a complex microbiota, which are crucial for maintaining health. Dysbiosis, caused by factors such as poor diet, stress, and medication, is linked to increased cancer risk due to inflammatory responses. Probiotics, beneficial bacteria, help restore microbial balance and exhibit anticancer properties by promoting apoptosis, inhibiting oncogenes, and enhancing the immune system. Specific probiotic strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium have shown potential in inhibiting cancer cell proliferation and regulating immune functions. Additionally, the gut-brain axis underscores the importance of the microbiome in both physical and mental health. Probiotics also aid in managing chemotherapy side effects and preventing complications like diarrhea and mucositis. Despite promising findings, further research is needed to fully understand the safety and efficacy of probiotics in cancer therapy, as their effects may vary based on cancer type and stage.

Keywords: probiotics, cancer, brain-gut-axis, mechanism, prevention

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DOI         10.56082/annalsarscibio.2025.1.253

 

1Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Bd. Carol I no. 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania.

2“Ioan Haulica” Institute, Apollonia University, Pacurari Street 11, 700511 Iasi, Romania

3Doctoral School of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, No 20A, Carol I Avenue, 700506 Iasi, Romania

4Doctoral School of Geosciences, Faculty of Geography and Geology, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University of Iași, Carol I Avenue, No. 20A, 700505 Iași, Romania

5Academy of Romanian Scientists

6Centre of Biomedical Research, Romanian Academy, Bd. Carol I, no. 8, 700506 Iasi, Romania

7Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Technical (ISPITS), Marrakech 40000, Morocco

8Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Processes and Materials, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Hassan First University, Settat 26000, Morocco

 

*Corresponding author: Cătălina Ionescu catalinaionescu81@yahoo.com


PUBLISHED in Annals Academy of Romanian Scientists Series on Biological SciencesVolume 14 no 1, 2025