The problem
Deterioration of the gastrointestinal microbiome and a reduction in short chain fatty acid production has been associated with higher complication rates, infections and poorer treatment response and survival during cancer treatment. Types of dietary fibre called prebiotics, support the microbiome and immune function by stimulating the growth of health promoting bacteria which produce short chain fatty acids. However, few trials have evaluated provision of a prebiotic fibre intervention during cancer treatment.
Summary of the research
This research aims to evaluate feasibility of prebiotic fibre supplementation during cancer treatment and whether it can support the microbiome and immune system, reduce infections and improve patient outcomes.
Our researchers
Dr Sarah Andersen (Metro North), A/Prof Andrea Henden (Metro North), A/Prof Glen Kennedy (Metro North), Dr Midori Nakagaki (Metro North), Dr Nicole Gavin (Metro North), Tamara Wolf (Metro North), A/ Prof Heidi Staudacher(Deakin)