Abstract

Nebin Sajeer*, Sandra Prasanth, Anjitha B. S., Jessica Sanil, Devananda H. and Dr. Aneeta Toms

ABSTRACT

The gut microbiota represents the body’s most extensive and dynamic microbial ecosystem, playing a fundamental role in regulating immune function. Extensive research has demonstrated that both the composition of the gut microbiota and the metabolites it produces contribute significantly to the modulation of host immune responses. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have emerged as a transformative class of drugs in oncology, offering improved survival for patients with various advanced malignancies. Nevertheless, a substantial proportion of individuals do not respond favorably to these therapies. Current strategies to manipulate the gut microbiome—such as fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), dietary interventions, and the use of prebiotics—have shown potential in modifying the immune landscape. This review explores the potential of leveraging gut microbiota modulation to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of cancer immunotherapy and addresses how microbiome-focused interventions might help overcome current limitations in ICI response.