Colorectal cancer remains a significant health challenge in China, but recent breakthroughs by researchers at Lanzhou University's School of Life Sciences offer a beacon of hope.
Professor Li Xiangkai and his team have identified a probiotic strain, Limosilactobacillus fermentum GR-3, sourced from \"Jiangshui,\" a traditional fermented food in northwest China, that shows remarkable potential in combating colorectal cancer. This innovative approach leverages the power of beneficial bacteria to target and inhibit the growth of colon tumor cells.
Studies have highlighted that colorectal cancer patients often suffer from an imbalance in their gut microbiota and increased peroxidation in tumor cells. Unlike conventional antioxidants, Lactobacillus GR-3 specifically targets the tumor microenvironment while also regulating intestinal flora, offering a dual-action strategy against cancer progression.
The research team successfully isolated Lactobacillus GR-3, a strain known for its strong antioxidant properties. In both mouse models with hyperuricemia and clinical trials, this probiotic demonstrated significant benefits by promoting the degradation of uric acid through gut microbiome modulation. Building on these promising results, the team explored its potential in preventing colorectal cancer.
Results from their studies are encouraging. Lactobacillus GR-3 not only reduced the growth of colon tumors in drug-induced mice but also improved the composition of intestinal microbial metabolites. Additionally, it promoted apoptosis in colon cancer cells and inhibited their proliferation, underscoring its therapeutic potential.
Looking ahead, Professor Li's team plans to delve deeper into the specific mechanisms by which Lactobacillus GR-3 operates and to evaluate its efficacy in clinical settings. This research opens new avenues for the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer, emphasizing the critical role of gut health and the microbiome in combating disease.
\"Our study aims to identify probiotics with strong antioxidant capacity and robust gut flora regulatory effects, providing new insights into the prevention and inhibition of colorectal cancer,\" said Professor Li.
Reference(s):
China identifies bacterial therapy for colorectal cancer treatment
cgtn.com
