Abstract
Colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) is a type of colorectal cancer (CRC) that develops as a result of chronic inflammation, particularly in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Persistent intestinal inflammation and dysbiosis of gut microbiota under these conditions are major contributors to CRC progression. Doenjang, a traditional Korean fermented soybean paste, contains probiotics that influence intestinal microbiota composition, as well as biogenic amines (BAs), harmful compounds generated during fermentation. We analyzed the bacterial composition and BA content of Doenjang and evaluated its effects on CAC in a mouse model of AOM/DSS-induced CAC. Results revealed that Doenjang contains diverse beneficial probiotics alongside BAs. Doenjang significantly reduced tumor formation and attenuated CAC progression by modulating inflammatory and apoptotic pathways and suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway. Additionally, Doenjang restored intestinal epithelial barrier integrity by increasing the expression of mucin-related genes (MUC-2, MUC-3) and protective factors like TFF-3. Gut microbiota analysis revealed that Doenjang promoted a healthier gut environment by increasing microbial diversity and reducing inflammation-related bacterial populations. These findings suggest that Doenjang helps prevent and manage CAC by modulating inflammatory responses and gut microbiota composition.