Probiotic, Prebiotic, and Gut–Brain Connection in Cancer Development

Being the fourth most prevalent malignant tumor, colorectal cancer ranks second in terms of cancer-related death. Cancer’s primary characteristics are evading apoptosis and cell mutation. Preventing carcinogenesis evidently requires maintaining a delicate balance in the relationship between damage to DNA and DNA repair. A good diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in physical activity might potentially prevent one-third of cancer cases. Because of differences in nutrition and eating habits as well as occupational dangers, colorectal cancer has been on the rise in emerging nations. According to recent research, the makeup of the gut microbiota may have a role in the development of colorectal cancer and other dysbioses of the gut. By modifying the gut microbiota using probiotics and prebiotics, either independently or together, inflammation may be prevented. The immune system’s interaction with the microbiome might benefit from this. In recent decades, there has been growing evidence supporting the role of the brain–gut–microbiota axis in the process of tumor development. Numerous functions include immunological response, digestion, immune system maintenance, cortisol modulation, and control over neurotransmitter metabolism (e.g., serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin). Changes in the gut’s microbiota can upset homeostasis and lead to dysbiosis, which has been linked to colorectal cancer. Treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and medication can be significantly impacted by the microbiota’s composition.