Intratumoral microbiota in colorectal cancer: roles, therapeutic potential, and challenges

Intratumoral microbiota, as emerging tumor components, has been identified in various solid tumors. The review emphasizes the mechanisms by which intratumoral microbiota mediate inflammation, metabolic alterations, and immune modulation in CRC. It highlights how certain intratumoral microbiota are associated with resistance or sensitivity to treatments, and how manipulating the microbiota could enhance immunotherapy efficacy. By integrating advancements in multi-omics and clinical research, targeting the intratumoral microbiota represents a promising avenue for improving CRC therapies and overcoming treatment resistance. The clinical application of the intratumoral microbiota has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of CRC, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies in oncology.