The Application of Oncolytic Bacteria for Cancer Treatment

Mahmoud, Maged Mostafa

doi:10.21608/ejvs.2025.345854.2571

The Application of Oncolytic Bacteria for Cancer Treatment

Articles in Press

Document Type : Review Artical

Author

Maged Mostafa Mahmoud

1.King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia. 2.Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

10.21608/ejvs.2025.345854.2571

Abstract

This review discusses the anticancer activity of oncolytic bacteria against various types of cancer. Cancer is the most prevalent life-threatening disease globally. "Coley's toxins" are considered as the foundation for bacterial anticancer therapy. Due to the indiscriminate toxicity of numerous anti-cancer medications towards healthy cells, scientists are currently investigating bacterial metabolites in order to identify targeted and specific treatments for cancer that lessen undesired side effects. Bacterial- based cancer treatment has a notable impact, either through direct tumor cell destruction or by modulating cellular processes, resulting in the inhibition and regression of solid tumors. Different bacterial genera could be used for this purpose including Listeria, Clostridium, Bacillus, Bifidobacterium, Salmonella, E. coli, etc. which can function as obligatory or facultative anaerobes. These bacteria possess the capacity to specifically target and proliferate within the tumor tissues. This unique ability enables them to effectively eradicate tumor cells and stimulate an immune reaction against the tumor. Recent progress in molecular techniques has facilitated the development of genetically modified non-pathogenic bacteria for use in bacterial anticancer approaches. While promising outcomes have been observed, further research is necessary to ensure the effectiveness and safety of oncolytic bacteria as an alternative cancer treatment option.

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