Inflammatory mechanisms of infection-associated cancer

Abstract

The concept of microbial infection as an underlying cause of cancer has been firmly established over many years of research. The notion, however, that even commensal elements of the normal microbiota are involved in tumor-promoting processes has only recently came to the focus of attention. The infl ammatory response to infection and tumor growth is remarkably and unexpectedly similar. Inflammation affects all phases of cancer growth, from incipient neoplasia to tumor progression and metastasis, and it has been proven that chronic infl ammation associated with viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections may increase cancer risk. Remarkably, eradication of infection and ensuing inflammation is proven in multiple etiologies to prevent cancer. One of the biggest challenges in the field involves the mechanistic elucidation of the innate and adaptive immune response to incipient neoplasia, pathogenic infections, and commensal microbial colonization. Insights gained from such studies will enable to uncover new therapeutic targets against chronic infection and its associated cancer.