Probiotics in Cancer Management.

2026-01-17
Nutrients 18(2)
- See-Hyoung Park

PubMed: 41599910
DOI: 10.3390/nu18020297

Lactobacilli strains are one of the major groups belonging to probiotics. Lactobacilli strains are known to be beneficial microbes widely studied and utilized for their health benefits and applications in various fields. Recently, Lactobacilli strains have emerged as promising agents in cancer management due to their ability to influence various physiological processes. Lactobacilli strains have shown potential in producing tumor-suppressive compounds, enhancing immune responses, and reshaping gut microbiota balance for the management of various cancer types. Lactobacilli strains demonstrated tumor-suppressive activity through mechanisms including induction of apoptosis, inhibition of migration, and regulation of key oncogenic signaling pathways. However, the effects of Lactobacilli strains appear to be strain- and cancer-type-dependent, necessitating further research to identify the most effective strains for the proper cancer type with the optimal treatment regimens. In this review article, we focus on Lactobacilli strains studied between 2021 and 2025 that have demonstrated tumor-suppressive properties in various experimental models. In addition, this article explores the current limitations in research methodologies and proposes potential avenues for future investigations in this area of study.

Research Insights

Supplement	Health Outcome	Effect Type	Effect Size
Bifidobacterium plantarum	Improved Immune Response	Beneficial	Moderate
Bifidobacterium plantarum	Increased Apoptosis	Beneficial	Moderate
Bifidobacterium plantarum	Reduced Cancer Cell Growth	Beneficial	Moderate
Bifidobacterium plantarum	Reduced Cancer Cell Migration	Beneficial	Moderate
Bifidobacterium plantarum	Reduced Tumor Growth	Beneficial	Moderate
Lactobacillus acidophilus L-92	Improved Immune Function	Beneficial	Small
Lactobacillus acidophilus L-92	Reduced Allergy Symptoms	Beneficial	Moderate