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INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF

CancerGenetics

• The therapeutic functions of bacteriophage in the treatment of colon cancer

• Haniye Fayezi,^1,* Katayoun Aliyari,²
  1. M.sc of Pathogenic Microbes Islamic Azad University North Tehran Branch, Tehran Iran.
  2. M.sc of Molecular genetics Islamic Azad University، Science And Research Branch, Tehran Iran.
  
  
  
• Introduction: Colon cancer is a prevalent and deadly disease that continues to challenge modern medicine. Bactericidal therapy is emerging as a promising option in the search for innovative treatments. Conventional treatments for cancer, such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, have limitations and side effects. Therefore, modifying or replacing existing strategies to treat cancer is necessary. Recently, bacteria have gained attention for their therapeutic role as emerging novel anti-cancer agents. Bacteriophages, viruses that target and infect bacteria, possess unique therapeutic properties that can radically change the treatment landscape for colon cancer. Bacteriophages can target and eradicate bacteria involved in colon cancer tumor development and progression. Their ability to specifically attack and destroy cancer cells is one of the most essential advantages in treating colon cancer. Bacteriophages destroy malignant cells in colon cancer while protecting healthy cells from damage. Finally, the use of bacteriophages in colon cancer treatment shows promise. They are a valuable addition to the treatment options for colon cancer patients, thanks in part to their targeted approach, anti-cancer properties, and ability to overcome drug resistance. However, it is crucial to emphasize the need for further research to understand and fully utilize their potential. As research in this area progresses, we hope to see widespread and highly effective use of bacteriophages in colon cancer treatment.
• Methods: Due to the nascent research stage on phage therapy for colon cancer, the methodology primarily relies on pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo models. Colon cancer cell lines like HCT116 and HT-29 are used to assess the direct cytotoxic effects of phages on cancer cells (These studies evaluate factors like phage concentration, exposure time, and cell viability after phage treatment). Co-culture models incorporate colon cancer cells and specific bacterial strains implicated in CRC, such as Fusobacterium nucleatum. This allows researchers to investigate the ability of phages to target and eliminate the bacteria while assessing their impact on cancer cell growth and viability. Microbiome analysis: Fecal samples from patients or animal models can be used to analyze the gut microbiome composition before and after phage treatment. This helps determine the impact of phages on the overall bacterial community and identify potential shifts that might influence colon cancer development. Colon cancer cells are implanted into immunocompromised mice to establish tumors. These models allow researchers to evaluate the efficacy of phage therapy in reducing tumor size and improving overall survival. Syngeneic models utilize genetically modified mice that spontaneously develop colon cancer. Phage therapy can be administered, and tumor progression and potential immune responses can be monitored. By employing these rigorous methods, researchers can gain valuable insights into the therapeutic potential of bacteriophages for colon cancer treatment, paving the way for future clinical trials and advancements in this promising field.
• Results: Bacteriophages have shown remarkable potential as targeted delivery vehicles. Studies demonstrated that phage-based nanocarriers could enhance the accumulation of chemotherapeutic agents in colon cancer tumors by up to 60% compared to conventional delivery methods. This targeted approach significantly reduced systemic toxicity while improving therapeutic efficacy. The unique properties of bacteriophages allow for improved tumor penetration. Bacteriophages exhibit significant immunomodulatory effects in the context of colon cancer. A study reported that phage therapy stimulated the activation of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and enhanced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, resulting in a more robust anti-tumor immune response. Emerging evidence suggests that bacteriophages can effectively target colon cancer stem cells, often resistant to conventional therapies. A study reported that phage therapy significantly reduced tumor-associated macrophages and increased tumor-infiltrating T cells, creating a more favorable environment for anti-tumor responses. These results underscore bacteriophages' multifaceted therapeutic potential in colon cancer treatment. The ability of phages to enhance drug delivery, stimulate immune responses, overcome resistance mechanisms, and improve long-term patient outcomes positions them as a promising avenue for future cancer therapeutics.
• Conclusion: Exploring bacteriophages as therapeutic agents for colon cancer presents a captivating avenue in the fight against this prevalent malignancy. Their remarkable ability to target and eliminate pro-carcinogenic bacteria within the gut microbiome and their potential for direct anti-tumor activity offers a unique and potentially transformative approach. While preliminary research is encouraging, further investigations are warranted to delineate the complete safety profile, optimal delivery methods, and long-term efficacy of phage therapy in the context of colon cancer treatment. However, the targeted nature of phages, their minimal impact on healthy tissues, and their potential to circumvent drug resistance paint a promising future for this innovative therapeutic strategy. As research continues to unveil the multifaceted capabilities of bacteriophages, we can anticipate their emergence as valuable tools in the armamentarium against colon cancer, offering hope for improved patient outcomes.
• Keywords: Colon cancer, Treatment, Bacteriophage, Chemotherapy