Can the Gut Microbiome Influence Cancer Treatment? What Current Research Explores

In this episode of *What I Wish I Knew*, we explore current research on how the gut microbiome may be associated with cancer treatment—particularly immunotherapy. Host McKenna is joined by Dr. Oriana Miltiadous to discuss what scientists are studying, how this research is conducted, and what questions remain.This conversation focuses on emerging areas of study, including fecal microbiota transplants (FMT), diet, medications, and how these factors are being investigated in relation to treatment response. The goal is to provide a grounded, research-based overview without overstating conclusions.Guest: Dr. Oriana MiltiadousDr. Miltiadous is a pediatric hematologist-oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center whose research focuses on the gut microbiome and its potential role in cancer care.Learn more about her work: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/oriana-miltiadous](https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/oriana-miltiadousIn this episode, we discuss:• What researchers are studying about the gut microbiome and cancer treatment• How fecal microbiota transplants are currently used and investigated• Considerations around probiotics and why research is still evolving• The role of diet in overall health during treatment• Ongoing questions in microbiome-related cancer researchChapter Overview:00:48 – Meet Dr. Oriana Miltiadous01:14 – Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT) Overview02:55 – Current Regulatory Status03:47 – How FMT Works (Research Perspective)05:45 – Preparation Process06:54 – Safety and Screening Considerations09:33 – Probiotics: Current Evidence10:54 – Diet and Gut Health12:25 – Nutrition Considerations During Treatment14:25 – Fiber and the Microbiome16:14 – Antibiotics and the Microbiome18:10 – Gut Recovery Considerations27:46 – Research Study Discussion33:20 – Microbiome and Immunotherapy (What’s Being Studied)38:15 – Future Research Directions43:40 – Clinical Challenges47:05 – What This Means in Current Research Context50:51 – Key TakeawaysFollow us for more research-based conversations:Instagram: @whatiwishiknewcancerTikTok: @wiwikpodcastLinkedIn: What I Wish I Knew PodcastDisclaimer:This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It does not provide or promote any treatment, cure, or prevention of disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding medical decisions. Research discussed in this episode is ongoing and may not be conclusive.