Preventing colorectal cancers linked to a common gut microbe 

Principal Investigator:
Alberto Martin, University of Toronto

• Heather Armstrong, University of Alberta 
• Ken Croitoru, Sinai Health System

Problem: A gut microbe known as pks+ E. coli is present in 20% of healthy people and 60% of people with colon cancer. Although evidence suggests that pks+ E. coli increases the risk of colon cancer and that dietary fibre can reduce this risk, we need to verify this link and understand how this microbe contributes to colon cancer risk. 

Solution: Dr Martin and colleagues will conduct 3 studies: one to look at how dietary fibre intake affects pks+ E. coli levels; one to look at how supplements affect pks+ E. coli levels and growth in the colon; and one to look at whether pks+ E. coli is linked to colorectal cancer in people with Lynch syndrome (a condition that increases cancer risk). 

Impact: The results of these studies could inform new dietary recommendations, screening and prevention strategies to help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.