Scientists have found that certain E. coli bacteria in the gut promote colon cancer by binding to intestinal cells and releasing a DNA-damaging toxin. This study sheds light on a new approach to potentially reduce cancer risk and was conducted by Prof. Lars Vereecke and Prof. Han Remaut. The bacteria produce a genotoxin called “colibactin” that binds and damages human DNA, leading to mutations that increase cancer risk. The research revealed that the bacteria attach to the gut tissue lining by using specific bacterial pili, and interfering with these bacterial attachment mechanisms could reduce tumor development. This study also raises questions about certain E. coli strains used as probiotics that may carry the cancer-promoting genes.
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Scientists discover how specific E. coli bacteria drive colon cancer
