The vertebrate gut is colonized by an intricate and dynamic community of microorganisms that are central to the metabolism of dietary nutrients and play a significant role in shaping host physiology. Current research has revealed that the interactions between gut microbiota, nutrients, and host factors are not only crucial for gastrointestinal well-being but also influence the risk and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). While it is established that microbial modulation of nutrient breakdown impacts host immune functions, the precise connections between these processes and CRC development remain inadequately elucidated. Key questions linger about which microbial taxa and metabolic pathways foster carcinogenic versus protective conditions, how dietary components and host genetics alter these interactions, and the specific molecular mechanisms influencing microbiota-related tumorigenesis or prevention.

This Research Topic aims to deepen our understanding of how gut microorganism-nutrient interactions contribute to colorectal cancer risk within vertebrate systems. We seek to identify specific microbial taxa and metabolic activities that impact CRC, elucidate how diet influences these microbial functions, and explore the molecular links between the microbiota, metabolites, and cancer. Moreover, the research will consider interspecies comparisons to gain insights into CRC-associated microbial communities across various vertebrates and investigate innovative preventive and therapeutic solutions for CRC.

To gain comprehensive insights, the scope of this Research Topic encompasses both the breadth and limitations of gut microbiota interactions with dietary nutrients and their role in colorectal cancer. We invite articles that focus on:

o Microbial taxa and metabolic pathways affecting CRC risk
o Dietary factors and their impact on microbial modulation
o Molecular mechanisms linking microbes, metabolites, and tumorigenesis
o Comparative and translational studies on CRC-associated microbes
o Innovative interventions for CRC prevention and therapy

We welcome contributions such as original research, comprehensive reviews, mini-reviews, and methodological advancements that incorporate multi-omics, in vivo, in vitro, or computational approaches. We encourage work that bridges microbial ecology with clinical, pathological, or nutritional aspects of colorectal cancer to foster innovative strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and therapy. This compilation aims to advance the mechanistic understanding of gut microbiota in CRC and explore novel avenues for intervention.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Gut Microbiota and Colorectal Cancer: Unveiling the Metabolic Pathways and Microbial Interactions