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Analysis of the Fecal Microflora and Its Enzymatic Activity in Individuals Genetically Predisposed to Colon Cancer

Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska 68178 [J. D. K.], and Boston University Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02118 [C. A. N.]

The role of the fecal microflora in the induction of colon cancer was investigated in individuals believed to be genetically predisposed to colon cancer. Subjects were members of families with increased occurrence of colon and endometrial carcinomas characteristic of the cancer family syndrome. Group 1 consisted of 5 cancer family syndrome individuals previously diagnosed with colon cancer. Group 2 consisted of 6 cancer family syndrome individuals previously diagnosed with endometrial cancer but free of colon cancer. An environmental control group (Group 3) consisted of 8 spouses of subjects in Groups 1 and 2. Quantitative bacterial cultures and assays of ß-glucuronidase and 7-dehydroxylase activity were performed on fecal samples. No differences in bacterial quantities or levels of ß-glucuronidase or 7-dehydroxylase activity were found among Groups 1, 2, and 3 or between spouse pairs. The results fail to associate quantities or enzymatic activity of the intestinal flora to colon cancer in individuals believed to be genetically predisposed to colon cancer.

¹ Present address: Medical Center Hospital of Vermont, Burlington, Vt.

Received 10/23/81. Accepted 7/ 8/82.