Scientists use gut bacteria to predict cancer treatment success

NCT ID NCT07346729

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at 60 people with advanced rectal cancer to see if the bacteria in their gut and mouth could predict how well they respond to chemotherapy and radiation before surgery. Researchers collected stool and saliva samples before treatment and used machine learning to analyze the bacteria. The goal was to build a model that could forecast tumor shrinkage, potentially helping doctors personalize cancer care in the future.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a simple stool or saliva test to predict which rectal cancer patients will benefit most from chemoradiotherapy, personalizing treatment.
What could go wrong: This is a small, observational study (60 people) that only looks for patterns. It does not test a treatment, so any predictions need much larger studies to confirm.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

rectal cancer rectal neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

RECTAL CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Nanfang Hosptial

Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.