Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Akkermansia muciniphila is a gut bacterium that has recently drawn attention for its potential role in modulating immune responses and improving outcomes in cancer treatment, particularly in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) such as anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 therapies. Several preclinical studies in mice have demonstrated that supplementation with A. muciniphila can restore the efficacy of ICIs in antibiotic-treated or germ-free animals. The proposed mechanisms involve enhancement of antigen presentation, modulation of T cell responses, and production of metabolites that strengthen gut barrier function and reduce inflammation.

A few early human studies have shown that higher abundance of A. muciniphila in the gut microbiome correlates with improved responses to immunotherapy and longer progression-free survival in cancer patients. For example, Routy et al. (Science, 2018) observed that melanoma and lung cancer patients with higher levels of A. muciniphila responded better to PD-1 blockade. There is also some preclinical evidence suggesting A. muciniphila may reduce gastrointestinal side effects (e.g., mucositis, diarrhea) associated with chemotherapy by preserving mucosal barrier integrity.

However, direct clinical evidence for supplementing A. muciniphila (as a probiotic or live biotherapeutic) to reduce cancer treatment side effects is still limited, and most findings are correlative or preclinical. More robust human interventional trials are needed to establish efficacy and safety. Thus, while the rationale is scientifically promising, the current level of evidence supporting its use for this purpose is modest.

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