International Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health

International Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health

The Anticancer Effects of Probiotics on Colon Cancer Cells: In Vitro and In Vivo Investigations

Document Type : Review Article

Authors
1 Department of Biotechnology, Comprehensive Health Research Center ,Islamic Azad University, Babol Branch, Babol, Iran
2 Department of cell and molecular biology Islamic azad university Ayatollah Amol branch , Amol , Iran
3 Department of Microbiology, Comprehensive Health Research Center ,Islamic Azad University, Babol Branch, Babol, Iran
4 Department of Microbiology Central laboratory of Mazandaran province Islamic Azad university Ayatollah Amol branch , Amol , Iran
5 Department of Cellular& Molecular Biology, Comprehensive Health Research Center ,Islamic Azad University, Babol Branch, Babol, Iran
6 Department of Cellular& Molecular Biology, Comprehensive Health Research Center, Islamic Azad University, Babol Branch, Babol, Iran
10.30491/ijtmgh.2025.528762.1493
Abstract
Introduction: The prevalence of cancer is due to genetic abnormalities and epigenetic changes in cell growth and apoptosis pathways. Tumor development is caused by overexpression of genes related to cell growth and proliferation and insufficient expression of genes regulating cell death. Colon cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide, prompting the need for innovative therapeutic strategies. Probiotics have been used in recent years to change the gut microbiome and treat colon cancer and reduce the side effects of treatments.

Methods: This study investigates the anticancer effects of probiotics on colon cancer cells through both in vitro and in vivo models. We explore the mechanisms by which probiotics exert their anti-tumor effects, including modulation of the gut microbiota, enhancement of immune responses, and induction of apoptosis in cancer cells. In vitro experiments demonstrate that specific probiotic strains significantly inhibit the proliferation of colon cancer cells and promote apoptotic pathways. Complementary in vivo studies using animal models further validate these findings, revealing reduced tumor growth and improved overall health in probiotic-treated groups.

Results: Additionally, we discuss the potential of probiotics to mitigate treatment-related side effects and enhance the efficacy of conventional therapies.

Conclusion:This investigation underscores the promising role of probiotics as a complementary approach in colon cancer prevention and treatment, paving the way for future clinical applications and research.
Keywords


Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 13 September 2026

  • Receive Date 06 June 2025
  • Revise Date 15 August 2025
  • Accept Date 16 August 2025