Unveiling a New Link: Candida albicans Enhances Melanoma Aggressiveness

Cancer caused ten million deaths worldwide in 2020. Micro-organism infections are estimated to have contributed to 13-18% of these cases. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified thirteen micro-organisms as carcinogenic, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Recent studies indicate other micro-organism types, such as fungi, are also linked to cancer.

The Pervasive Role of Candida albicans

Candida albicans, a fungus commonly found in the human microbiota (mouth, skin, digestive system, vagina), generally does not cause disease but can lead to serious issues. Research has previously suggested this fungus may contribute to cancer development and progression.

Unveiling the Mechanism: Candida albicans Fuels Melanoma Spread

A study by the EHU's MicrobiomicsEHU group has identified the mechanism by which Candida albicans increases the aggressiveness of melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer.

According to Dr. Leire Aparicio, a researcher at EHU, the fungus activates signaling pathways in melanoma cells, creating an environment that supports angiogenesis and metabolism reprogramming.

"This process provides malignant cells with increased oxygen and energy, facilitating their spread to the blood and other organs."

Direct Impact on Melanoma Progression: Migration and Metastasis

The research examined the fungus's influence on melanoma cell migration, proliferation, and adhesion. Findings indicate that Candida albicans enhances the capacity of cancer cells to migrate and form metastases; however, no changes were detected in proliferation. This discovery suggests that the fungus directly impacts melanoma progression.

New Therapeutic Avenues and Future Research

This research opens possibilities for new alternative therapies. Current cancer therapies directly target malignant cells, but if fungi demonstrate an effect, antifungal treatments could potentially serve as complementary therapies for melanoma.

Further research is required, including exploring if this fungus has similar effects on colon and gut cancer cells, as different cancer types may respond differently. The importance of studying fungi in cancer processes is emphasized, highlighting their role beyond direct disease causation as part of the human microbiota.