Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, influenced by genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Recent research suggests that alterations in the gut and breast microbiome may contribute to cancer risk, affect treatment response, and influence inflammation and estrogen metabolism. However, the role of the microbiome in radiation therapy (RT) outcomes remains underexplored.

This project aims to identify microbial signatures in breast cancer patients, track microbiome changes during treatment, and correlate findings with immune profiles. Using patient-derived organoids and mouse models, the study will also test whether probiotics and polyphenols can improve RT outcomes, potentially leading to microbiome-targeted strategies for enhancing breast cancer therapy.

Università degli Studi di Perugia:
Cynthia Aristei (PI), Gianluca Ingrosso, Isabella Palumbo, Simonetta Saldi, Guido Bellezza, Martina Mandarano, Francesco Barberini, Ambra Mariotti, Marco Mazzochi, Antonella Mencacci, Teresa Zelante

Azienda Ospedaliera di Perugia:
Microbiologia, Breast Unit, Chirurgia Plastica, Anatomia-Patologia, Radioterapia

External:
University Rome Tor Vergata - Chiara Focaccetti, Roberto Bei, Loredana Albonici

PON Ricerca e Innovazione, and Bando PRIN 2022