Gut Microbiome in Breast Cancer Patients May Help Prevent Heart Damage from Cancer Treatments
New research suggests that gut microbiome composition in breast cancer patients may help prevent chemotherapy-induced heart damage, opening avenues for probiotics-based protective strategies.
Recent research indicates that the composition of the gut microbiome in breast cancer patients might play a crucial role in protecting against heart damage, known as cardiotoxicity, caused by cancer therapies. The study involved 98 women over 60 from various European treatment centers, including Cyprus, Greece, and Italy. These women underwent echocardiograms to assess heart function and blood tests to identify biomarkers linked to higher risk of heart injury during treatment. Additionally, scientists performed genetic sequencing of gut bacteria to analyze their profiles before chemotherapy.
The findings revealed specific gut bacteria, particularly within the Bacteroidaceae family, were associated with biomarkers indicating increased vulnerability to heart damage. These bacteria's presence was similar to profiles observed in patients with heart failure, suggesting a potential link between gut flora and heart health during cancer treatment.
Dr. Athos Antoniades, leading the research, emphasized the significance of these findings, noting that certain bacteria in the gut might influence cardiac biomarkers and thus, the risk of heart damage. The study suggests a future where personalized probiotics could be developed to mitigate long-term cardiovascular side effects in cancer survivors.
The women involved in the study underwent detailed heart scans and blood tests, with genetic analysis revealing that an imbalance or overgrowth of certain bacteria, like Bacteroides, might contribute to inflammation and overall heart risk. This project, part of the broader CARDIOCARE initiative, aims to analyze 600 women to confirm these findings and explore probiotic interventions for heart protection.
The research was presented at the European Cardio-Oncology 2025 conference by the European Society of Cardiology. Ultimately, this work points to the promising potential of microbiome-targeted therapies to prevent or reduce heart-related complications in cancer patients, improving long-term health outcomes.
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Breakthrough in HIV Vaccine Research Identifies Potent New Antibody Target
Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in HIV vaccine development by identifying a new antibody target capable of neutralizing diverse HIV strains. This advance could pave the way for more effective vaccines against the virus, with early human trials already underway.
Reevaluating Medical Parole: The Need for Fairer Access for Terminally Ill Prisoners
Despite existing policies, medical parole for terminally ill inmates remains rarely granted. Experts argue for system reforms to improve access and ensure humane treatment for vulnerable populations.
Childhood Central Obesity and Its Early Link to Metabolic and Heart Risks
New research reveals that increased waist-to-height ratio in children predicts early signs of metabolic and cardiovascular risks by age 10, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention.
Recent Trends in Opioid Prescriptions for Cancer Patients Highlight Declines with Clinical Context
A new study reveals declining opioid prescriptions for cancer patients from 2016 to 2020, reflecting careful clinical judgment amid ongoing opioid crisis measures.