An Update on Blastocystis : Possible Mechanisms of Blastocystis -Mediated Colorectal Cancer

is an anaerobic parasite that colonizes the intestinal tract of humans and animals. When it was first discovered, was considered to be a normal flora with beneficial effects on human health, such as maintaining gut hemostasis and improving intestinal barrier integrity. Later, with increasing research on , reports showed that sp. is associated with gastrointestinal disorders, colorectal cancer (CRC), and neurological disorders. The association between sp. and CRC has been confirmed in several countries. sp. can mediate CRC via similar mechanisms to CRC-associated bacteria, including infection-mediated inflammation, increased oxidative stress, induced gut dysbiosis, and damage to intestinal integrity, leading to a leaky gut. IL-8 is the main inflammatory cytokine released from epithelial cells and can promote CRC development. The causal association of sp. with other diseases needs further investigation. In this review, we have provided an update on sp. and summarized the debate about the beneficial and harmful effects of this parasite. We have also highlighted the possible mechanisms of -mediated CRC.