It’s no secret that our gut health plays a formative role in our overall health. Over the past decade, more and more studies have examined how the gut microbiome impacts multiple systems throughout our body. Fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs) have been used in cases of C. diff infections or other gastrointestinal issues to infuse good and healthy bacteria into the gut. But could FMTs also be used to improve outcomes in oncological areas, such as improving melanoma treatment?
Reporting from Medical News Today explains that researchers sought to explore this question in the Phase 1 MIMic clinical study. The research team evaluated the interconnected response of FMTs alongside immunotherapy in treating individuals living with advanced melanoma. 20 participants enrolled. The goal of the trial was understanding whether using FMTs with immune checkpoint inhibitors like nivolumab and pembrolizumab—the current standards-of-care for advanced melanoma—was safe and effective.
Analyzing Fecal Transplants in this Unique Setting
As described by the study findings in Nature Medicine, the trial participants each received between 80mg and 100mg fecal transplant via orally administered capsules. At least one week later, they were then treated with nivolumab or pembrolizumab. The research team hypothesized that by addressing gut bacteria, and contributing to increases in healthy gut bacteria, the people being treated would respond better to immunotherapy.
After treatment, 40% of participants experienced adverse reactions such as diarrhea, excessive gassiness, and abdominal discomfort. However, none of the reactions were serious or severe. Additionally, no participants developed infections caused by fecal transplantation. 85% of participants also experienced side effects related to immunotherapy, such as fatigue, arthritis, and lung or kidney inflammation.
Despite the side effects, the combination of FMTs with immunotherapy did show promise. 65% responded well to treatment and 20% of enrolled participants went into remission. These responders showed higher levels of good/healthy gut bacteria and lower levels of harmful gut bacteria.
In the future, the research team hopes to hold additional studies and larger Phase 2 clinical trials to explore the use of FMTs in treating a wider variety of oncological indications.
About Melanoma
Melanoma is a serious and severe form of skin cancer that forms in melanin-producing cells called melanocytes. This cancer typically affects adults, though it can occur in children. Melanoma can also form in your eyes, throat, or nose (though the latter two are rare). People with darker skin are more likely to have melanoma form in “hidden” areas like the mouth, urinary or digestive tract, or under nails.
The exact cause of melanoma isn’t fully understood, though there is a correlation between melanoma and UV exposure. Having a fair complexion, a history of sunburn, many unusual moles, a weakened immune system, or a family history of melanoma all increase your risk.
Common symptoms of melanoma include skin color changes, the formation of new moles near an existing mole, changes in existing moles, or areas of the skin that change size, shape, or color. You can identify abnormal moles or potential melanomas by following ABCDE:
- Asymmetrical shape
- Irregular border
- Changes in color
- Diameter over 0.25 inch
- Evolution over time
Without treatment, melanoma may metastasize (spread) to other areas of the body. Treatment may include surgery, biologics, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapy. If you have melanoma, make sure to speak with your doctor about the best line of treatment.
