New Fusobacterium Nucleatum Clade Found in 50% of Aggressive Colon Cancers

A study reveals that a specific clade within the Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) subspecies dominates the colorectal cancer (CRC) niche, with in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating its high virulence in the context of CRC. Comparative genomics and functional studies show that this clade, known as Fna clade 2 (Fna C2), is significantly associated with the CRC niche and possesses distinct genetic and epigenetic characteristics compared to Fna clade 1 (Fna C1). Fna C2 is enriched in CRC tumors and exhibits differential invasion potential and morphological differences compared to Fna C1, shedding light on its potential role in CRC pathogenicity.