We have been aware for decades that good bacteria aids us with normal bodily function, and we have been learning that different good bacteria can do different things. CBM588 is termed a probiotic and is a live bacterial product that contains Clostridium butyricum. (This is not to be confused with some really bad bacteria with the Clostridium name!) As the name suggests, these bacteria produce butyric acid, as well as other short-chain fatty acids, that are a wonderful energy source for the lining of the intestines. Research, primarily from the Japanese, has shown “immunomodulatory properties” with this ba cteria. That brings us to a trial using two modern immunotherapies together, with or without CBM588, for kidney cancer. With a median duration of response at 30.7 months with CBM588 and 4.5 months without it, it appears likely that, for the next decade, the immunotherapy research in cancer will include “tinkering” with different doses and schedules of modern immunotherapy/good bacteria combinations to the benefit of a multitude of patients with a number of tumor t ypes.
Please note that I don’t take this product or promote it! I do eat yogurt, and my dog does also. There is much to be learned about CBM588 and other good bacteria, but for some patients with advanced cancer, “good bacteria” may provide a big benefit.
Dr. Fred Hardwicke practices medical oncology at Childress Regional Medical Center (CRMC), 901 U.S. Hwy 83. To contact CRMC, call 940-937-6371.
