Researchers Uncover Cancer-Killing Potential of Fusobacterium
In a groundbreaking study, researchers from Guy’s and St Thomas’s, and King’s College London have discovered that fusobacterium, a common mouth bacteria, can effectively kill certain types of cancer.
The study found that head and neck cancer patients with this bacteria in their tumors experienced significantly better outcomes. “When you find these bacteria within head and neck cancers, they have much better outcomes,” stated Dr. Miguel Reis Ferreira, the study’s senior author. The team is now investigating the exact biological mechanisms behind this phenomenon.
Promising laboratory results
The research involved analyzing the effects of fusobacterium on cancer cells in a lab and studying data from 155 patients with head and neck cancer. In laboratory experiments, cancer cells exposed to fusobacterium showed a 70%-99% reduction in viability within a few days. The cancer cells in petri dishes almost disappeared after being infected with fusobacterium.
Better survival odds linked to fusobacterium
Patient data analysis revealed that those with fusobacterium in their cancer had a 65% lower risk of death compared to those without the bacteria. “We had a eureka moment when we found that our international colleagues also found data that validated the discovery,” said Dr. Anjali Chander, the lead author of the study.
Future implications
These findings could significantly influence future cancer treatments. Researchers initially expected fusobacterium to promote cancer growth or increase resistance to radiotherapy, but instead, it destroyed the cancer completely within days. Barbara Kasumu, executive director of Guy’s Cancer Charity, expressed pride in supporting this research aimed at enhancing the understanding of head and neck cancer.