Microbes in tumors could lead to personalized cancer treatments
A new study just found that certain cancers—like lung, prostate, and ovarian—have their own unique mix of microbes living inside tumors.
These tiny communities could actually affect how cancers start, grow, and respond to treatments.
The big takeaway? Understanding these microbes might help doctors create more personalized and effective ways to diagnose and treat cancer.
Tailored treatments on the horizon
Researchers noticed that different cancers have their own "microbial signatures"—for example, lung tumors had certain bacteria like Streptococcus, while ovarian tumors had both bacteria and viruses like HPV.
Some of these microbes can mess with our immune system or even change our DNA.
Scientists think learning more about them could lead to better tests and new treatments that are tailored for each patient.