Researchers analyzed the microbial features of a bacterial consortium called AUN, composed of A-gyo and UN-gyo, to understand its genomic characteristics. The study found that A-gyo was defective in pathogenic gene factors, allowing it to reside in living mice. The AUN consortium exhibited a unique gene expression pattern, with increased expression of genes related to extracellular iron acquisition, which may contribute to its anticancer efficacy.
In immunocompromised mouse models, AUN showed strong antitumor efficacy, with a single or double dose administration leading to complete tumor regression. The double-dose regimen ensured a substantial amount of AUN was delivered to the tumors, resulting in a 100% complete response. The study also investigated the mechanism of tumor suppression, finding that AUN caused tumor-specific thrombosis, leading to hypoxia and necrosis.
The AUN consortium was also tested in various human cancer cell lines, including HT29, SKOV3, and BxPC3, and showed transcendent oncolytic ability against these tumors. The study suggests that the AUN bacterial consortium has potential as a therapeutic agent for cancer treatment, with its unique features and mechanisms contributing to its efficacy.