• Impact of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 on Colorectal Cancer: A Review
  • Sahar Hemati,1 Hadiseh Masoudi,2 Mahtab Maleki,3 Hadis Farokhdel,4,*
    1. Department of Biology, Islamshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr, Iran
    2. Department of Biology, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
    3. Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
    4. Department of biology ,central Tehran branch, Islamic Azad university, Tehran, Iran


  • Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prominent public health challenges, as it is the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. In addition to genetic factors, increasing evidence suggests that structural and functional alterations in the gut microbiome play a pivotal and determining role in the pathogenesis and progression of this disease. Disturbance in the balance of the intestinal microbiome and an increase in colibactin-producing Escherichia coli strains are recognized as important factors in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer. These bacteria disrupt the intestinal protective barrier and accelerate tumorigenic processes by causing direct damage to the DNA of epithelial cells, increasing genetic instability, and inducing chronic inflammation. Engineered probiotic strains of Escherichia coli Nissl 1917 (EcN) are being developed as safe, toxin-free live carriers for precise targeting of intestinal tumors and improved diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer. This bacterium enhances the immune response against cancer cells by activating immune cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells and reduces intestinal inflammation through the production of short-chain fatty acids. EcN also has the ability to carry anticancer drugs and therapeutic proteins, making it a novel and efficient option for targeted treatments of colon cancer. EcN inhibits the NF-κB pathway, reducing inflammation and preserving tissue integrity. It regulates Wnt/β-catenin signaling to prevent abnormal cell proliferation and maintains epithelial homeostasis . It also EcN inhibits MAPK/ERK signaling, limiting tumor growth and chemoresistance. These multifaceted effects position EcN as a promising adjunct in CRC therapy, capable of reprogramming the tumor microenvironment and supporting immune surveillance. Future research should focus on genetically engineering EcN to enhance its tumor-targeting capabilities.This engineered strain could be formulated as suppositories or oral tablets for non-invasive administration, offering a targeted, microbiome-based therapy to eradicate CRC while minimizing systemic side effects and improving patient outcomes.
  • Methods: In this review, a comprehensive search was conducted in reputable scientific databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Nature, to identify articles related to colorectal cancer (CRC) and Escherichia coli Nissl 1917. Selection criteria included high-quality peer-reviewed articles relevant to the study topic. After eliminating duplicate and irrelevant articles, a total of 63 articles were selected for the final analysis. Data were extracted from studies with rigorous experimental designs and valid findings to provide a comprehensive and evidence-based picture of current knowledge.
  • Results: The findings of this study indicate that the gut microbiota, particularly colibactin-producing strains of Escherichia coli, play a significant role in the progression of colorectal cancer. In contrast, the probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) demonstrates considerable therapeutic potential by modulating key signaling pathways and reducing inflammation. Engineered EcN strains enable more precise tumor targeting and minimize side effects. These results open up new perspectives for the development of microbiome-based therapies and the use of engineered probiotics in the fight against colorectal cancer.
  • Conclusion: Some bacteria in the gut microbiome play an important role in the development of colorectal cancer. The engineered strain of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 has been developed as a viable and safe carrier for precise targeting of intestinal tumors. The bacteria are able to inhibit tumor growth by enhancing the immune response, reducing inflammation, and delivering anticancer drugs. EcN reduces inflammation and controls abnormal cell proliferation by regulating key signaling pathways. This bacterium is a novel and effective treatment for colorectal cancer, but it needs more research and simpler administration methods.
  • Keywords: Colorectal cancer (CRC) ;Escherichia coli ;Escherichia coli Nissl 1917 ;Engineered probiotic; Infla