Powerful Weapon Against Cancer Found in Frog's Gut 0 5

Scientists have discovered an unexpectedly effective remedy against cancer in the intestinal microbiota of the Japanese tree frog. In experiments on mice, one of the bacterial strains completely eliminated tumors and prevented their recurrence — without significant side effects. The study was published in the journal Gut Microbes.

Researchers started from the observation that amphibians and reptiles rarely suffer from cancer. They tested 45 strains of bacteria isolated from frogs, newts, and lizards, identifying several with anti-tumor activity. The most effective was the strain Ewingella americana from the gut of the Japanese tree frog: a single administration led to the complete disappearance of tumors in mice.

Analysis showed that the bacterium acts in two ways — it directly damages tumor tissue while simultaneously activating the immune system. After treatment, the activity of T and B cells, as well as neutrophils, increased, helping the body to suppress cancer growth on its own. Scientists suggest that the bacterium's ability to survive in low-oxygen conditions — typical for tumors — plays a key role.

The authors emphasize that this is still only preclinical data: further safety and efficacy checks are necessary before discussing application in humans.