Exploring the Role of the Microbiome in Breast Carcinogenesis
Public Deposited- Last Modified
- February 26, 2019
- Creator
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Boncales, Jemima
- Affiliation: School of Nursing
- Abstract
- Background: The human body is colonized by millions of bacteria, with the permanent colonizers referred to collectively as the microbiome. The microbiome, microbial byproducts of metabolism affect the human body in numerous ways, providing a protective and often symbiotic relationship with the human host. Nevertheless, through environmental fluctuations, individual’s genetic predisposition and/or unknown factors, dysbiosis or a state of imbalance may develop, leading to the development of diseases, including cancer. The effects of microbial dysbiosis are largely focused on the gastrointestinal system and development of gastric-related disorders. Aims: This research review extends the scope of the microbiome’s role outside of the gastrointestinal domain, specifically investigating pathways by which the microbiome modulates breast cancer risks. Method: CINAHL and PubMed databases, journals, and citation indices were searched using the keyword “microbiome” in combination with breast cancer, dysbiosis, estrogen, immune system, obesity, epigenetics, nursing. Results: The microbiome plays an active role in modulating estrogenic levels, in establishing and stimulating the immune system, and contributes to the development of obesity affecting breast cancer development through epigenetic dysregulation. Many epigenetic changes are reversible through either pharmacotherapy or through behavioral changes, and therefore are amenable to nursing interventions. Knowledge of the microbiome’s systemic effects can shed light on individualized breast cancer prevention and treatment care plans, improve dietary guidelines, and bolster the immune system.
- Date of publication
- spring 2015
- Keyword
- DOI
- Resource type
- Rights statement
- In Copyright
- Note
- Funding: None
- Advisor
- Swift-Scanlan, Theresa
- Degree
- Bachelor of Science
- Honors level
- Honors
- Degree granting institution
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Extent
- 34
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