Recent Research on the Role of Lactobacilli Probiotics in Cancer Management

TL;DR

This review explores how Lactobacilli probiotics may help manage cancer by suppressing tumors and improving immune responses.

Contribution

The paper reviews recent studies (2021-2025) on Lactobacilli strains with tumor-suppressive properties and identifies research gaps.

Findings

Lactobacilli strains can induce apoptosis and inhibit cancer cell migration.

Their effectiveness varies by strain and cancer type, requiring tailored approaches.

Current research lacks standardized methods, limiting broader application.

Abstract

Lactobacilli strains are one of the major groups belonging to probiotics. Lactobacilli strains are known to be beneficial microbes widely studied and utilized for their health benefits and applications in various fields. Recently, Lactobacilli strains have emerged as promising agents in cancer management due to their ability to influence various physiological processes. Lactobacilli strains have shown potential in producing tumor-suppressive compounds, enhancing immune responses, and reshaping gut microbiota balance for the management of various cancer types. Lactobacilli strains demonstrated tumor-suppressive activity through mechanisms including induction of apoptosis, inhibition of migration, and regulation of key oncogenic signaling pathways. However, the effects of Lactobacilli strains appear to be strain- and cancer-type-dependent, necessitating further research to identify the most effective strains for the proper cancer type with the optimal treatment regimens. In this review article, we focus on Lactobacilli strains studied between 2021 and 2025 that have demonstrated tumor-suppressive properties in various experimental models. In addition, this article explores the current limitations in research methodologies and proposes potential avenues for future investigations in this area of study.