What are the key virulence and cancer-associated effects of Fusobacterium spp discussed?

• A. Pro-inflammatory, adhesive/invasive properties and may promote pro-oncogenic effects
• B. Anti-inflammatory and non-invasive
• C. Metabolic competition with host cells
• D. No notable effects on cancer biology

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that Fusobacterium species contribute to cancer biology by driving inflammation and by attaching to and invading epithelial cells, which can trigger signaling that promotes cancer development. In particular, Fusobacterium nucleatum uses adhesins like FadA to bind E-cadherin, disrupt cell junctions, and activate β-catenin signaling, leading to increased transcription of oncogenes such as c-Myc and Cyclin D1 and boosted cell proliferation. It also expresses factors like Fap2 that can engage immune checkpoints (for example, TIGIT) to dampen anti-tumor immune responses, helping tumor cells escape surveillance. The resulting pro-inflammatory environment—cytokines like IL-6 and IL-8, changes in the tumor microenvironment, and immune modulation—further supports tumor progression and potential pro-oncogenic effects. These combined virulence traits—pro-inflammatory, adhesive/invasive capabilities and promotion of oncogenic signaling—best capture the discussed effects.