Probiotics for Prophylaxis and Management of Breast Cancer: Preclinical and Clinical Evidence

There is solid evidence regarding the role of gut microbiota in various types of cancer. Particularly, the gut microbiota is associated with breast cancer (BC) via the immune- and estrogen-mediated pathways. Besides, there is evidence regarding the interactions between BC incidence and dysbiosis. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms, which can manipulate gut microbiota composition and function through different mechanisms. In the light of these facts, modulation of gut microbiota via consumption of the probiotic products may hold promise in the prevention and treatment of BC. In this chapter, the authors go through the literature and present studies in human and animal models on the role of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of BC and the underlying mechanisms. Besides, the shortcomings of the current state of research and translational challenges of extrapolating the in vivo results to the clinical outcome are addressed. Furthermore, potential favorable effects of probiotics consumption during the chemotherapy in BC patients are covered. Safety concerns and regulatory considerations alongside the present trend in the probiotics market are also reviewed. In the end, the prospects of probiotics administration in BC are discussed.