Immunotherapy and The Microbiome

Presented by Theresa Medina, MD, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Immunotherapy has transformed melanoma care—yet for many patients, outcomes remain unpredictable. Why do some people respond dramatically while others do not? This talk explores one of the most compelling and rapidly evolving answers: the role of the microbiome and how it interacts with the immune system in melanoma. Presented by Teresa Medina, this session offers a wide-ranging look at how internal and external factors—from tumor biology to gut bacteria—shape response to treatment. While immunotherapy works by releasing the “brakes” on the immune system, the reality is far more complex: tumors, immune cells, and the broader body environment all influence whether that response is successful . At the center of this discussion is the microbiome—the vast community of microorganisms that live in and on the body. These microbes are not passive; they actively help regulate immune function, metabolism, and inflammation. Emerging research shows that differences in microbiome composition—and especially its diversity—may be closely linked to how well patients respond to immunotherapy. This talk also explores how the microbiome can be modified through diet, lifestyle, and even experimental interventions like fecal microbiota transplantation, offering a glimpse into how future melanoma care may become more personalized and biologically informed.