Work

Metabolite-mediated mechanisms linking the urinary microbiome to bladder cancer

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Bladder cancer is the most common malignancy of the urinary tract and is a major health burden globally. Recent advances in microbiome research have revealed that the urinary tract harbors a resident microbial community, overturning the long-held belief in its sterility. Increasing evidence suggests that microbial dysbiosis and microbially derived metabolites contribute to bladder cancer carcinogenesis, progression, and therapeutic responses. Distinct microbial signatures have been observed in bladder cancer patients, with notable differences across disease stages and between primary and recurrent cases. Mechanistic studies have demonstrated that microbe-associated metabolites and toxins can drive DNA damage, chronic inflammation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. In addition, biofilm formation allows bacteria to evade immune responses and promotes persistent inflammation, creating a tumor-permissive niche. Beyond pathogenesis, microbial activity also influences therapeutic outcomes; for instance, some microbial pathways can inactivate frontline chemotherapy, while others generate metabolites with anti-tumor properties. Collectively, these patterns define a microbiota-metabolite-immunity axis, presenting opportunities for precision oncology. Targeting microbial pathways, profiling urinary microbiota, and harnessing beneficial metabolites offer promising advancements in biomarker discovery, prognostic refinement, and the development of novel therapeutic strategies for bladder cancer.

Source: The Journal of Microbiology

DOI: 10.71150/jm.2509001

Authors: Thu Anh Trần, Ho Young Lee, Hae Woong Choi

Institution: Korea University

Language: English

Topic: Bladder and Urothelial Cancer Treatments

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,690