The Role of Microorganisms in Multiple Myeloma

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Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a bone marrow malignancy characterized by the clonal proliferation of abnormal plasma cells. The disease results in the large secretion of a monoclonal immunoglobulin (Ig). Despite the great advances in its knowledge and treatment occurred in the last decade, MM remains an incurable disease and represents the second most frequent haematologic tumour (1% of all tumours). Although the origin of this haematologic disease is still unknown, some studies suggest its association with microorganisms, such as the hepatitis C virus, human immunodeficiency virus and Epstein Barr virus, as well as other most common infectious pathogens.

Latent infection and chronic antigen stimulation are now recognized in humans as initial pathogenic events leading to chronic inflammation, acquisition of genetic alterations, and cancer. This type of association has been shown in various B-cell haematologic malignancies such as chronic lymphocytic leukaemia or lymphomas. Chronic antigen stimulation of B-cells seems to trigger signaling pathways resulting in proliferation, reduced apoptosis, survival and alteration in cell migration. Nevertheless, these mechanisms remain unknown for MM.

In addition, the implication of human microbiota and virome in the development of MM and its preceding stage, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), is poorly explored. The complex and interactive balance between non-pathogenic microbes and the human immune system creates a steady state of coexistence and any disturbance of this balance can lead to morbidity and illness. Direct links between the gut microbiota and MM have been suggested, and further studies are necessary to demonstrate the role of microorganisms in the development of MGUS and MM.

In this Research Topic, we would like to collect Review, Systematic Review, Mini-Review, Method, Case Report and Original Research articles that:

• Summarize recent update of antigen stimulation of B-cells as a mechanism that promotes MM
• Discuss the role of human microbiota and virome in MM and the response of MM patients to treatments
• Illustrate the molecular pathways by which microorganisms modulate MM progression
• Provide novel insights into potential future treatments based on the modulation of microorganisms (virome, microbiota or infections)
• Present new methods with significant interest in the research of the role of microorganism in the development of MGUS and MM

Dr. Maria Linares is the co-founder of Spotlab. Dr. Hermouet declares no competing interests with regards to the Research Topic theme.

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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