In a study published in the journal Gut Microbes, scientists made an unexpected discovery: the intestinal microbiota of the Japanese tree frog contains an effective anti-cancer agent. During experiments on mice, it was found that one of the bacterial strains could completely destroy tumors, preventing their recurrence, while not causing serious side effects.
Researchers, noting that amphibians and reptiles rarely suffer from cancer, tested 45 strains of bacteria isolated from frogs, newts, and lizards. In the course of this research, a strain of Ewingella americana, obtained from the intestines of the Japanese tree frog, was identified as the most effective: a single administration of this bacterium led to the complete disappearance of tumor formations in mice.
Further analysis showed that this strain acts in two ways: it not only damages tumor tissue but also activates the body's immune responses. As a result of the treatment, there was an increase in the activity of T and B cells, as well as neutrophils, which allowed the body to fight cancer cells on its own. Scientists suggest that the bacterium has a unique ability to survive in low-oxygen conditions, which is typical for tumors.
The authors of the study emphasize that at this stage, the findings are only preclinical data, and before moving on to human trials, additional safety and efficacy checks are necessary.
