The importance of the gut microbiome in colorectal cancer risk and treatment

Abstract Mounting evidence indicates that imbalances in intestinal microenvironment homeostasis are a critical mechanism underlying CRC initiation and progression. The gut microbiome, which consists of a diverse array of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in the regulation of various biological processes such as metabolism, immune function, and intestinal barrier integrity. This chapter addresses the role of the gut microbiome in CRC, highlighting its contributions to carcinogenesis through mechanisms such as toxin production, inflammatory responses, and immune modulation. Additionally, it explores how microbiota-related factors influence CRC risk and pathogenesis, emphasizing the potential of microbial biomarkers in early detection, diagnosis, and prognostication of CRC. Furthermore, the chapter delves into the therapeutic implications of modifying the gut microbiome as a strategy for CRC prevention and treatment. It also discusses current research on microbiome-targeted therapies, including the use of probiotics, prebiotics, and faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), as well as the future directions in microbiome-based cancer management.