Researchers discovered that vitamin D enhances cancer immunity by promoting the growth of a beneficial gut bacterium in laboratory mice, leading to improved responses to immunotherapy.
By administering a vitamin D-rich diet, the mice exhibited stronger immune resistance to cancers, as observed through reduced tumor growth when transplanted with tumors. The study, published in Science, revealed that vitamin D influences intestinal cells, increasing the presence of Bacteroides fragilis, which in turn enhances cancer immunity in mice.
Additionally, data from human studies also hinted at a link between higher vitamin D levels and improved cancer treatment responses. This research underscores the potential of vitamin D in shaping gut microbiota for enhanced cancer immunity and offers insights into dietary interventions for cancer prevention and treatment.