Title:A Review on Probiotics and Their Role in the Management of Cancer
Volume: 1
Author(s): Rajshree Dahiya*, Sumayya Khan and Sanket Kumar
Affiliation:
- Department of Pharmacology, Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342011, India
Keywords:
Probiotics, prebiotics, bacteria, homeostasis, cancer, chemotherapy.
Abstract: Probiotics are advantageous bacteria that provide numerous health benefits to individuals
when ingested and help to keep the gut microbiota balance. These beneficial bacteria can be found
in food, supplements, and medicines. Foods that contain probiotics include yogurt, tempeh, and miso,
while bacteria of lactic acid and bifido are the predominant microbial strains commonly employed
in various applications. Due to their potential health benefits and minimal side effects, probiotics
are widely accepted globally. Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is crucial for overall
health, and any disturbance in the gut's microbiota can trigger inflammatory immune responses and
initiate various diseases such as cancer. Cancer is a grave and frequently fatal illness that impacts a
significant number of individuals. It arises due to uncontrolled cell growth and is usually diagnosed
at an advanced stage. The disease originates from a single cell and can potentially metastasize,
spreading through the body. As of now, cancer has no known cure, and the safety and efficacy of
conventional chemotherapies and synthetic drugs employed in its treatment are subject to scrutiny.
These treatments can negatively impact a patient's well-being, affect drug resistance, and are often
too expensive for many patients to afford. Therefore, researchers are exploring more effective and
safe ways to manage cancer. Certain probiotic strains have the potential to be beneficial in preventing
cancer or as a complement to traditional chemotherapy by altering gut microbiota and improving
the reactions of the body’s defense system. Hence, the review examines the likelihood of probiotics
as simply an alternative approach to preventing and treating cancer.
