Gut microbiome development along the colorectal adenoma-carcinoma sequence

Background and Aims: Colorectal cancer (CRC), a commonly diagnosed cancer in the elderly often develops slowly from benign polyps called adenoma. The gut microbiota is believed to be directly involved in colorectal carcinogenesis. The identity and functional capacity of the adenoma- or carcinoma-related gut microbe(s), however have not been surveyed in a comprehensive manner. Here we perform the first metagenomic-wide association study (MGWAS) on stools from healthy controls, advanced adenoma and carcinoma patients, and reveal the possible impact of various risk factors, especially red meat versus fruit and vege…