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Kamkari S, Aghdaki M. The Role of Prebiotics in the Prevention and Management of Breast Cancer: A Comprehensive Review of Preclinical and Clinical Evidence. pbp 2026; 8
URL: http://pbp.medilam.ac.ir/article-1-404-en.html
URL: http://pbp.medilam.ac.ir/article-1-404-en.html
1- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Oncology Gynecology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
2- Maternal-fetal medicine Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran ,maryam.aghdaki@yahoo.com
2- Maternal-fetal medicine Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran ,
Abstract: (12 Views)
Objective: Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies among women worldwide. In recent years, increasing attention has been directed toward the gut microbiota and its modulation through dietary interventions, particularly prebiotics, in relation to cancer-related pathways. This review aims to critically synthesize current preclinical and clinical evidence regarding the role of prebiotics in the prevention and adjunctive treatment of breast cancer.
Methods: This narrative review was conducted based on available evidence from preclinical studies, including in vitro and animal models, as well as clinical and observational research. Relevant literature, including randomized controlled trials, case–control studies, animal experiments, and systematic reviews published between 2010 and 2025, was retrieved from major scientific databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and regional indexing systems (ISC and SID). Studies investigating the association between prebiotic intake and breast cancer outcomes were included and analyzed.
Results: Preclinical and clinical findings suggest that prebiotics may exert anticancer effects primarily through modulation of the gut microbiota and increased production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These metabolites contribute to the regulation of the gut–estrogen axis, reduction of systemic inflammation, and enhancement of immune responses. Evidence indicates that prebiotics may suppress tumor cell proliferation and potentially reduce resistance to hormone-based therapies. In human studies, improvements in metabolic profiles and reductions in inflammatory biomarkers have been reported. Overall, prebiotics demonstrate promising potential as preventive agents and as supportive components in breast cancer management.
Conclusion: Current evidence supports a potential beneficial role of prebiotics in breast cancer prevention and treatment through modulation of the gut microbiota and inflammatory–hormonal pathways. However, due to heterogeneity among studies, further large-scale, well-designed clinical trials are required to determine optimal types, dosages, and therapeutic efficacy.
Methods: This narrative review was conducted based on available evidence from preclinical studies, including in vitro and animal models, as well as clinical and observational research. Relevant literature, including randomized controlled trials, case–control studies, animal experiments, and systematic reviews published between 2010 and 2025, was retrieved from major scientific databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and regional indexing systems (ISC and SID). Studies investigating the association between prebiotic intake and breast cancer outcomes were included and analyzed.
Results: Preclinical and clinical findings suggest that prebiotics may exert anticancer effects primarily through modulation of the gut microbiota and increased production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These metabolites contribute to the regulation of the gut–estrogen axis, reduction of systemic inflammation, and enhancement of immune responses. Evidence indicates that prebiotics may suppress tumor cell proliferation and potentially reduce resistance to hormone-based therapies. In human studies, improvements in metabolic profiles and reductions in inflammatory biomarkers have been reported. Overall, prebiotics demonstrate promising potential as preventive agents and as supportive components in breast cancer management.
Conclusion: Current evidence supports a potential beneficial role of prebiotics in breast cancer prevention and treatment through modulation of the gut microbiota and inflammatory–hormonal pathways. However, due to heterogeneity among studies, further large-scale, well-designed clinical trials are required to determine optimal types, dosages, and therapeutic efficacy.
Type of Study: Review/Systemtic review |
Subject:
Pharmacological
Received: 2025/09/22 | Accepted: 2026/04/22
Received: 2025/09/22 | Accepted: 2026/04/22
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