• Researchers discovered Fusobacterium, a common mouth bacteria, is toxic to head and neck cancer cells, potentially improving patient outcomes.
  • Study shows Fusobacterium can reduce viable head and neck cancer cells by 70-99%, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for treatment response.
  • This discovery could lead to a better understanding of bacteria-cancer interactions and the development of kinder treatments with fewer side effects for head and neck cancer patients.

Researchers at Guy’s and St Thomas’, and King’s College London found a bacteria Fusobacterium, commonly found in the mouth, toxic to head and neck cancer. The study suggests it may improve patient outcomes.

Head and neck cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide. Survival rates vary greatly based on the cancer's spread at diagnosis.

Fusobacterium, typically linked to bowel cancer progression, has been found to destroy tumor cells in the most common type of head and neck cancer. 

This new research, published in Cancer Communications, suggests it could be a biomarker for predicting patient response to treatment.

Dr Miguel Reis Ferreira, senior author of the study said:

“This research reveals that these bacteria play a more complex role than previously known in their relationship with cancer - that they essentially melt head and neck cancer cells. However, this finding should be balanced by their known role in making cancers, such as those in the bowel, get worse.”

As per the researcher, this discovery will enhance understanding of the interaction between bacteria and cancers and is the first step toward improving head and neck cancer treatment. It aims to develop kinder treatments with fewer side effects.

Dr. Anjali Chander, another lead author, observed a 70-99% reduction in viable head and neck cancer cells after infecting them with Fusobacterium. The bacteria release toxic molecules that destroy the tumor, reducing its viability.

Barbara Kasumu, Executive Director of Guy’s Cancer Charity, expressed pride in supporting Miguel and Anjali's pioneering research. She highlighted that their work aims to deepen understanding of head and neck cancer and create more compassionate and effective treatments.

Edited by Harshajit Sarmah