Exploring the Microbiome in Gastric Cancer: Assessing Potential Implications and Contextualizing Microorganisms beyond H. pylori and Epstein-Barr Virus

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The microbiome emerges as a crucial participant in gastric cancer (GC), a severe cancer burden worldwide. Current understanding has primarily focused on the impact of H. pylori and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) on GC. Still, recent evidence suggests that other influences like microbiota and viral and fungal infections also contribute. This review highlights established factors like H. pylori and EBV and other microbes like Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and Candida albicans. Improved understanding of the gut microbiome may lead to advanced diagnosis and therapies for GC. ABSTRACT: While previous research has primarily focused on the impact of H. pylori and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), emerging evidence suggests that other microbial influences, including viral and fungal infections, may also contribute to gastric cancer (GC) development. The intricate interactions between these microbes and the host’s immune response provide a more comprehensive understanding of gastric cancer pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. The review highlights the roles of established players such as H. pylori and EBV and the potential impacts of gut bacteria, mainly Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and fungi such as Candida albicans. Advanced sequencing technologies offer unprecedented insights into the complexities of the gastric microbiome, from microbial diversity to potential diagnostic applications. Furthermore, the review highlights the potential for advanced GC diagnosis and therapies through a better understanding of the gut microbiome.