Gut microbiome-derived metabolites in prostate cancer: microbial mechanisms of immune modulation, androgen metabolism, and therapeutic implications
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The global burden of prostate cancer continues to rise, yet conventional biomarkers and therapies face substantial limitations due to tumor heterogeneity and treatment resistance. The gut microbiome has emerged as a critical regulator of host metabolism and immunity, with its bioactive metabolites influencing prostate cancer pathogenesis through multiple interconnected pathways. Short-chain fatty acids, secondary bile acids, microbiota-modulated tryptophan metabolites, and microbiota-derived androgens modulate immune surveillance, androgen metabolism, and therapeutic responses via hormonal and inflammatory signaling networks. These metabolites exert context-dependent effects that vary with concentration, disease stage, and the tumor microenvironment. This narrative review comprehensively synthesizes current mechanistic evidence on microbiome-derived metabolite signaling and evaluates the potential of circulating microbial metabolites as non-invasive biomarkers, while outlining future research priorities for clinical translation in prostate cancer management.
Source: Frontiers in Microbiology
Authors: Jun Mi, Peilong Wang, Fang Wu, Xi Xiao
Institution: Lanzhou University Second Hospital
Language: English
Topic: Gut microbiota and health
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W7225380945