Healthy Gut Microbiome May Shield Breast Cancer Patients from Chemotherapy-Induced Cardiotoxicity

Recent research highlights a potential protective role of the gut microbiome in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, specifically regarding the risk of cardiotoxicity. The study, led by Dr. Athos Antoniades, Head of Research and Development at Stremble Ventures Ltd., indicates that a healthy gut microbiome prior to treatment may mitigate heart damage associated with cancer therapies. This groundbreaking research was presented at the European Cardio-Oncology 2025 congress, organized by the European Society of Cardiology.

The study involved 98 women aged over 60, all diagnosed with breast cancer, recruited from three clinical centers across Europe: the Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre, the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, and the European Institute of Oncology in Italy. Participants underwent echocardiograms to assess heart function and blood tests to identify biomarkers such as LV GLS, NTproBNP, and Troponin I, which indicate susceptibility to heart damage during chemotherapy.

Dr. Antoniades explained, "To allow cancer survivors healthier lives, we need to find new ways to protect them from the long-term side effects of chemotherapy. This study is one of the first to ask whether the microbiome could play a role in how well patients' hearts fare during chemotherapy." The research revealed a correlation between specific gut bacteria, particularly those from the Bacteroides genus, and cardiac health markers.

The implications of this study are significant, as heart damage, or cardiotoxicity, is a common side effect of chemotherapy, leading to long-term health challenges for survivors. The findings suggest that tailored probiotics might serve as a novel approach to safeguarding heart health in patients undergoing cancer treatment.

The research is part of the broader CARDIOCARE project, which aims to expand the study to a total of 600 patients to validate these initial findings. As treatments for breast cancer evolve and survival rates improve, understanding and addressing the long-term side effects of treatment has become increasingly critical.

Dr. Antoniades remarked, "We are already following up these 98 patients after chemotherapy and are expanding the research project to all 600 patients already enrolled in the CARDIOCARE clinical trial." With advancements in cancer treatment, the need for supportive care strategies that enhance the quality of life for survivors is paramount, and the role of gut health could be a pivotal area for future exploration.

In summary, while further research is warranted, this study presents promising evidence that a healthy gut microbiome could be instrumental in protecting breast cancer patients from the cardiac risks associated with chemotherapy. The results pave the way for innovative therapeutic approaches that could significantly improve patient outcomes in the realm of oncology.