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Health Sciences › Dentistry › Periodontics
Colon Cancer-Associated Fusobacterium nucleatum May Originate From the Oral Cavity and Reach Colon Tumors via the Circulatory System
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Conflicts of Interest
Identified Weaknesses
Rating Explanation
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Paper Summary
Paperzilla title
From Mouth to Gut: Does a Blood Ride Help Bacteria Cause Trouble Down South?
This study suggests that Fusobacterium nucleatum found in colorectal cancer may originate from the mouth and reach the gut via the bloodstream. Using genomic sequencing of patient-matched oral and tumor F. nucleatum isolates, along with mouse models, researchers demonstrated more efficient tumor colonization via intravenous inoculation than oral gavage.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified
Identified Weaknesses
Small sample size
The sample size of the study is small with only three pairs of patient-matched samples analyzed, limiting the generalizability of the findings.
Correlation does not equal causation
Although whole-genome sequencing revealed high similarity, it doesn't definitively prove the direction of transmission. Other transmission routes or independent colonization events cannot be fully ruled out.
Limitations of the animal model
The mouse model, while useful, doesn't perfectly replicate the complex human oral microbiome or the specific conditions that lead to F. nucleatum colonization in CRC.
Focus on a single route
The study primarily focuses on the hematogenous route. Other potential routes, such as direct extension or lymphatic spread, warrant further investigation.
Rating Explanation
The research presents a compelling hypothesis supported by genomic sequencing and a pre-clinical model. While the sample size is a limitation in the human study, the combined evidence suggests a plausible mechanism for F. nucleatum's role in CRC. The carefully designed experiments and genomic analysis strengthen the conclusions, warranting a good rating despite some inherent limitations of using a mouse model.
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File Information
Original Title:
Colon Cancer-Associated Fusobacterium nucleatum May Originate From the Oral Cavity and Reach Colon Tumors via the Circulatory System
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July 14, 2025 at 10:56 AM
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