The Claim
Colibactin-induced mutational signature ID18 is responsible for approximately 25% of APC driver gene inactivating insertions and deletions in colorectal cancers that test positive for colibactin, demonstrating a direct mechanistic link between this bacterial toxin and a key early event in colorectal tumorigenesis.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
In colorectal cancers infected with bacteria that produce colibactin, a specific pattern of DNA damage caused by this toxin accounts for about one-quarter of harmful mutations in the APC gene, which is known to initiate tumor development.
See the scientific wording
Colibactin-induced mutational signature ID18 accounts for approximately 25% of APC driver gene inactivating insertions and deletions in colibactin-positive colorectal cancers, indicating a direct mechanistic link between this bacterial toxin and a key early event in colorectal tumorigenesis.
What the research says
1 studyStudy: Geographic and age variations in mutational processes in colorectal cancer
This study found that a toxin made by certain gut bacteria leaves a specific fingerprint in the DNA of colon cancers, and about one in four of the harmful DNA mistakes that start these cancers come from that toxin. So yes, the bacteria are directly linked to causing early changes that lead to colon cancer.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.