The role of fungi in colorectal cancer: Pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the leading contributors to global cancer-associated deaths, with its development and progression closely influenced by the complex and evolving interplay between host and gut microbial communities. The gut fungal community has emerged as a crucial factor in the oncogenesis, progression, and treatment of CRC. Through multi-cohort fecal metagenomic analysis, it has been found that the gut fungal community structure of CRC patients undergoes significant changes, with pathogenic fungi becoming enriched and overall fungal diversity decreasing. In addition, fungal metabolites and other components are also associated with cancer development, including effects on cell proliferation, apoptosis, and immune responses. In terms of mechanisms, fungi may influence CRC progression by affecting intestinal immune responses, modulating inflammatory pathways, and interacting with bacteria. However, current research is mainly focused on correlation analysis, with causality remaining unclear. Moreover, the diversity of fungi across different populations limits their clinical application. This article examines the role of fungi in CRC onset and progression, summarizes current therapies, and outlines future research to support early diagnosis, precision treatment, and improved prognosis.

Keywords

Fungi / Colorectal cancer / Gut microbiota / Immunity

Acknowledgments

None.

Funding

This study was supported by the 2024 Lianyungang Science and Technology Projects (grant number SF2435), the Lianyungang Anticancer Association Surface Project (grant number MS202407), and the Major Projects of Nanjing Medical University Kangda College (grant number KD2024KYJJ043).

Conflict of interest

The authors declare they have no competing interests.

Author contributions

Conceptualization: Xuzhu Gao

Investigation: Yuzhi Gao, Nan Zhang, Tuo Ji

Visualization: Tuo Ji

Writing-original draft: Yuzhi Gao, Nan Zhang, Tuo Ji, Kun Yu, Jiachen He

Writing-review & editing: Xuzhu Gao

Ethics approval and consent to participate

Not applicable.

Consent for publication

Not applicable.

Availability of data

Not applicable.

Further disclosure

Grammarly was used to improve the language of the paper.

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