Scientists use gut bacteria to predict cancer treatment success

NCT ID NCT07346729

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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for RECTAL CANCER are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Nanfang Hosptial

    Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China