Tehran University of Medical Sciences Basic & Clinical Cancer Research 2228-6527 16 3 2025 09 14 160 170 Abolfazl Jafari-Sales Department of Microbiology, Kazerun Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kazerun, Iran Maryam Farahnaki-Sadabadi Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran Elham Nozohour-Leilabadi Department of Microbiology, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran Negin Yagoubi Azar Department of Microbiology, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran Maryam Safari Department of Microbiology, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran Mehrdad Pashazadeh 1. Infectious Diseases Research Center, Tabriz Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran 2025 03 18 2025 05 12 Enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (ETBF) plays a significant role in the development and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) through the production of Bacteroides fragilis toxin (BFT). This toxin activates Wnt, NF-κB, and STAT3 signaling pathways, leading to chronic inflammation, DNA damage, and abnormal cellular proliferation. The presence of ETBF in the gut microbiota can increase the risk of CRC by enhancing immune cell infiltration, triggering inflammatory responses, and disrupting cell cycle regulation. ETBF detection is performed using molecular methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunomagnetic separation-PCR (IMS-PCR), which offer high accuracy in identifying this bacterium. Immunomagnetic separation enhances the sensitivity and precision of detection. In addition to precise diagnostic methods, preventive strategies play a crucial role in reducing the risk of CRC. A healthy diet, including increased fiber intake, reduced consumption of processed meats and saturated fats, along with maintaining a healthy weight and regular physical activity, are among the effective factors in preventing this disease. Furthermore, stress reduction and avoidance of alcohol and tobacco can positively impact lowering the risk of CRC. A deeper understanding of the role of ETBF in CRC and its effects on molecular pathways can contribute to the development of novel preventive approaches. Investigating the composition of the gut microbiota and implementing preventive strategies based on lifestyle modifications not only aids in identifying at-risk individuals but also plays a significant role in reducing the prevalence and progression of this disease. https://bccr.tums.ac.ir/index.php/bccrj/article/view/568