This review highlights the critical role of ubiquitination in governing the functionality of cancer stem cells (CSCs), shedding light on potential therapeutic targets for combating tumor progression, recurrence, and drug resistance. Published in Genes & Diseases, this article explores the intricate mechanisms through which the ubiquitin (Ub) system regulates key pathways essential for CSC maintenance and survival.

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality, with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) representing the most prevalent subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Despite their classification under the same umbrella, these two forms of lung cancer exhibit distinct genetic landscapes, therapeutic targets, and treatment responses.

This study explores the potential of oncomicrobial vaccines in mitigating tumor progression by targeting specific cancer-promoting microbes in mice. The researchers developed and tested vaccines against Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) and enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (ETBF), both of which are associated with colorectal cancer (CRC). The vaccines effectively reduced the colonization of these oncomicrobes, suppressed tumor development, and mitigated inflammation without significantly disrupting the gut microbiota. The findings suggest that oncomicrobial vaccines could be a promising strategy for preventing and treating CRC, particularly in individuals at high risk due to family history or other factors.