Probiotics as a Therapeutic Strategy in Ovarian Cancer: Insights from Preclinical and Clinical Evidence

Introduction: Ovarian cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting women, and current treatment strategies often have significant limitations. In recent years, probiotics have emerged as a promising adjunctive therapy alongside standard treatments. By modulating the immune system, influencing gut microbiota, and reducing inflammation, probiotics have the potential to improve outcomes for patients with ovarian cancer. This review aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the therapeutic role of probiotics in ovarian cancer management. Methods: A literature search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and ISI Web of Science to identify studies evaluating the effects of probiotics on ovarian cancer. Evidence from in vitro, animal, and clinical studies was collected and analyzed, with a focus on probiotic effects on tumor growth, progression, and therapeutic response. Results: Current evidence suggests that probiotics may confer multifaceted benefits in ovarian cancer management. Strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus (including LGG), Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Lactobacillus plantarum have demonstrated the ability to inhibit tumor-associated signaling pathways, reduce cancer cell migration and invasion, and enhance immune responses. Additionally, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium breve, and Bifidobacterium animalis have been associated with decreased drug resistance, modulation of inflammatory responses, and restoration of gut microbiota composition. Furthermore, bacteria such as Akkermansia muciniphila and Limosilactobacillus reuteri have shown promising effects by enhancing antitumor immunity and improving the efficacy of complementary therapies. Collectively, these findings indicate that probiotics may serve as valuable adjuncts to conventional ovarian cancer treatments, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes and mitigating adverse effects. Nonetheless, further large-scale clinical trials are warranted. Conclusion: Based on preclinical and limited clinical evidence, probiotics may serve as a safe complementary approach in ovarian cancer therapy; however, their therapeutic efficacy remains inconclusive. Consequently, they should be regarded as an adjunctive strategy rather than a standalone treatment.

کلیدواژه ها:

Probiotics ، Ovarian cancer ، Therapy ، Microbiome ، Adjunctive treatment