Gut bugs could predict chemo success in rectal cancer

This study looked at whether the types of bacteria in a person's gut before treatment could predict how well their rectal tumor responds to chemotherapy and radiation. Researchers collected stool samples from 2 patients with stage II or III rectal cancer and compared their gut bacteria to the tumor's response after treatment. The goal was to find a link that could help personalize cancer care, but the study was stopped early due to low enrollment.