Improving colorectal cancer treatment: integrating synbiotics therapy with various treatment approaches

Abdollahzade, Fatemeh; Ranjbar, Masoumeh; Azizpour, Taniya; Alirezazadeh Bagheri, Fatemeh; Hajizadeh Chenari, Khadijeh; Mokabberi, Sepideh

doi:10.30491/ijtmgh.2025.507686.1462

Improving colorectal cancer treatment: integrating synbiotics therapy with various treatment approaches

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

Fatemeh Abdollahzade ¹

Masoumeh Ranjbar ²

Taniya Azizpour ³

Fatemeh Alirezazadeh bagheri ³

Khadijeh Hajizadeh Chenari ¹

Sepideh Mokabberi ³

¹ Department of Cellular& Molecular Biology, Comprehensive Health Research Center, Islamic Azad University, Babol Branch, Babol, Iran

² Department of Biotechnology, Comprehensive Health Research Center, Islamic Azad University, Babol Branch, Babol, Iran

³ Department of Cellular& Molecular Biology, Comprehensive Health Research Center, Islamic Azad University, Babol Branch, Babol, Iran

10.30491/ijtmgh.2025.507686.1462

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite advancements in conventional therapies, there is a critical need for innovative strategies to enhance treatment efficacy and patient outcomes. Various growth factors and novel nutrients, including probiotics and prebiotics, have been tested in experimental models to combat mucositis. Prebiotics are non-digestible compounds that selectively stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial microbes in the gut microbiota and provide health benefits to the host. Synbiotics are symbiotic combinations of probiotics and prebiotics that can have better effects than either of these agents alone. This paper explores the potential of integrating synbiotics therapy—comprising prebiotics and probiotics—into existing CRC treatment regimens. Synbiotics may improve gut microbiota balance, enhance immune response, and mitigate treatment-related side effects, thus offering a complementary approach to conventional therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies. We review current evidence on the role of synbiotics in CRC management, highlighting their mechanisms of action, potential benefits, and clinical applications. Additionally, we discuss challenges and future directions for research in this field. By synergizing synbiotics therapy with diverse treatment modalities, we aim to pave the way for more effective, personalized approaches to colorectal cancer care.

Keywords

Colorectal cancer

Synbiotics

Treatment integration

Probiotics

Prebiotics

Treatment efficacy