- Fusobacterium nucleatum, a bacterium commonly found in the human mouth, has been linked to colorectal cancer (CRC) tumours.
- Researchers from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in the U.S. identified a subtype, Fusobacterium nucleatum animalis (Fna), particularly prevalent in CRC tumours.
- They discovered two clades within this subtype, Fna C1 and Fna C2, with Fna C2 showing a significant association with CRC tumours and an ability to thrive in acidic conditions similar to stomach acid, thanks to specific acid-resistant genes.
- Despite the decline in overall CRC incidence worldwide, the rate of early-onset CRC has alarmingly increased by 2-4% annually in many countries.
- India has seen a 20% increase in CRC from 2004 to 2014. The development of a drug targeting Fna C2, while sparing other critical gut bacteria presents a significant challenge.
Dig Deeper: What are Gram Positive and Gram-Negative Bacteria’s?
