Probiotic Microorganism: A Promising and Innovative Tool for Cancer Prevention and Therapy

Abstract The global cancer burden has risen to 18.1 million new cases and 9.6 million deaths in 2018 and one of the most common cancer types is gastrointestinal (GI) cancer. Gut dysbiosis that leads to disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease is particularly linked to GI cancer. The human GI tract contains millions of bacteria that exhibit a symbiotic relationship with the host. Some of these bacteria, also termed probiotic bacteria, produce important metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, essential vitamins, and immunomodulatory signaling molecules that play a significant role in detection and degradation of potential carcinogens. Conversion or chelation of procarcinogens or mutagens such as Pb is an anticarcinogenic attribute that can be utilized to manage cancers particularly GI cancers and improve human health. This chapter would provide an overview of the role of probiotics in maintaining intestinal homeostasis and hence contribute to cancer prevention.