Salmonella Mediated Cancer Therapy: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Insights – A Review

Abstract

Background: Cancer is an important global health threat, underscoring the continued need for novel, effective therapies. Salmonella-mediated cancer therapy has gained attention as a viable therapeutic approach because it has an intrinsic ability to selectively colonize tumors.
Objectives: To better understand molecular pathways that Salmonella uses to target and colonize tumors, modulates immune responses and alters the tumor microenvironment to mediate antitumor activity. To discuss the current state of the genetic manipulation of Salmonella strains to enhance their therapeutic specificity and efficacy.
Main Body: A comprehensive literature and a critical evaluation of preclinical and clinical studies regarding Salmonella-mediated cancer therapy, including molecular pathway studies, genetic alterations of bacterial strains, and the results of combination therapy. Salmonella selectively colonizes solid tumors, stimulates the immune response, changes the tumor microenvironment and slows tumor growth. Genetic and mechanistic engineering of Salmonella strains have made them safer and more precise in targeting tumors. Salmonella can effectively target therapeutic agents in tumors and possibly enhance the efficacy of standard cancer therapies
Conclusion: Overall, Salmonella mediated cancer therapy is a flexible and powerful approach with considerable translational potential. Future research needs to focus on enhancing the potential of bacterial vectors, feedback between host and bacteria interactions, and bacterial metabolism in the cancer.