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0This paper presents PathSeq-T2T, a highly precise computational pipeline designed to identify microbial DNA within human tumor samples while rigorously removing host genetic material and environmental contaminants. By applying this technology to over 16,000 cancer genomes, researchers discovered that orodigestive cancers—such as those in the mouth, stomach, and colon—harbor complex, multi-kingdom communities including bacteria, fungi, and rare parasites. Conversely, most other solid tumor types lack a detectable microbiome once background noise is properly eliminated. The study reveals that tumor mutation burden (TMB) is a primary predictor of microbial presence, with hypermutated cancers showing significantly higher levels of colonization. Furthermore, specific microbial shifts were identified in early-onset colorectal cancers, highlighting potential links between the microbiome and cancer development in younger patients. Ultimately, this research provides a high-resolution atlas that clarifies the specific types of cancer influenced by resident microorganisms.
References:
Dohlman A B, Mjelle R, Wood H M, et al. Biodiversity and biogeography of the multi-kingdom cancer microbiome[J]. Cancer Research, 2026, 86(7_Supplement): 4901-4901.
