Bacteria that reside in tumors, or ‘intratumoral’ bacteria, have natural anticancer properties. In a recent study, researchers introduced photosynthetic bacteria into tumors and found that intratumoral bacteria associated with photosynthetic bacteria can trigger the immune system to kill cancer cells, provoking anticancer responses in various mouse models of cancer. This novel approach has implications for cancer diagnosis and treatment, along with the potential for development of precision optical medical devices.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Researchers are constantly looking for new therapies with improved anticancer activity, fewer side effects, and lower costs.