Microbiome Modulation in Lung Cancer Immunotherapy: Unveiling the Role of Respiratory and Gut Microbiota in the PD-1/PD-L1 Response

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide.

• Host-microbiome interactions may modulate antitumor immunity and influence clinical outcomes.
• The respiratory and gut microbiota can contribute to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment through T-cell exhaustion and regulatory cell activation.
• Certain commensal bacteria may facilitate the recruitment of cytotoxic T lymphocytes by dendritic cells.
• Microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, could influence myeloid-derived suppressor cells.
• Microbiota-modulation strategies, including tailored probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation, may enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy.
• The integration of microbiome science into precision oncology is advocated for improved patient stratification and counteracting therapeutic resistance.

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