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Chinese Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics ›› 2026, Vol. 31 ›› Issue (7): 937-947.doi: 10.12092/j.issn.1009-2501.2026.07.010

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Gut microbiota and colorectal cancer: advances from pathogenic mechanisms to therapeutic interventions

Wei LIU(), Wei ZHANG()   

  1. Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
  • Received:2025-07-23 Revised:2025-10-06 Online:2026-07-26 Published:2026-08-04
  • Contact: Wei ZHANG E-mail:3309791181@qq.com;yjsd2003@163.com

Abstract:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide, and its incidence has shown a steadily increasing trend in recent years. Clinical investigations and experimental evidence from animal models have established a strong association between the gut microbiota and CRC. The gut microbiota functions as a key regulatory factor in the initiation and progression of CRC, primarily through shaping the local immune and inflammatory microenvironment, producing metabolites with either tumor-suppressive or tumor-promoting activities, and secreting genotoxic substances, among other mechanisms, thereby driving CRC development. Meanwhile, the gut microbiota can also modulate the sensitivity of CRC to chemotherapy and immunotherapy through multiple pathways. This review aims to explore specific microbial taxa closely related to CRC onset, progression, and treatment, with a particular focus on the gut microbiota–mediated pathogenic mechanisms of CRC and currently effective therapeutic strategies. Ultimately, this work seeks to advance understanding of the deeper interplay between the gut microbiota and CRC, while providing novel perspectives for improving therapeutic efficacy in CRC.

Key words: colorectal cancer, gut microbiota, chemotherapy, immunotherapy

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