Unraveling the Dual Role of Campylobacter jejuni: From Pathogen to Potential Tumorigenesis Catalyst

Abstract

Campylobacter jejuni is widely recognized as a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide. While its acute effects on human health are well documented, a growing body of research suggests that its impact extends far beyond transient infections. Emerging evidence indicates that C. jejuni may contribute to chronic inflammatory conditions and even tumorigenesis, particularly within the gastrointestinal tract. However, the potential role of this pathogen in cancer development remains underexplored, leaving a critical gap in the current literature. This review aims to bridge this gap by providing a comprehensive analysis of C. jejuni’s dual role as both a foodborne pathogen and a potential catalyst for long-term disease. We examine its transmission pathways, unique virulence factors, and evolving antimicrobial resistance patterns, highlighting their implications for public health. More importantly, we explore recent findings that suggest a mechanistic link between persistent C. jejuni infection, chronic inflammation, and carcinogenesis, focusing on its ability to induce deoxyribonucleic acid damage and immune evasion. By synthesizing insights from microbiology, epidemiology, and clinical research, this review offers a novel perspective on C. jejuni, shifting the focus beyond its acute pathogenicity to its broader health implications. In doing so, it underscores the urgent need for further studies to elucidate its oncogenic potential and inform new strategies for prevention and intervention. This review not only advances our understanding of C. jejuni’s impact on human health but also calls attention to a pressing yet overlooked research frontier in infectious disease and cancer biology.