Microbiota-Mediated Regulation of Stem Cells in Cancer Initiation, Progression, and Treatment Response

Dear Colleagues,

The interplay between the microbiota and stem cell biology is emerging as a critical determinant in cancer development and therapeutic outcomes. Recent evidence reveals that microbial metabolites, inflammatory mediators, and epigenetic modulators profoundly influence the behaviour of normal and cancer stem cells, shaping tumour initiation, progression, and resistance to therapy. Dysbiosis-driven alterations in the gut and tumor-associated microbiota can reprogram stem cell signalling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and Hedgehog, promoting uncontrolled self-renewal and metastasis. Conversely, restoring microbial balance through probiotics, diet, or microbiota transplantation may enhance differentiation, immune surveillance, and treatment response. This Special Issue aims to highlight recent advances in understanding how microbial ecosystems regulate stem cell fate in both physiological and malignant contexts. Contributions spanning molecular mechanisms, translational oncology, and therapeutic interventions are welcome. By integrating microbiome science with cancer stem cell research, this issue seeks to pioneer microbiota-informed precision oncology, where modulation of microbial composition becomes a new strategy to prevent tumor recurrence and improve patient outcomes.

Dr. Ciro Gargiulo Isacco
Guest Editor

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