| Immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most exciting frontiers in medical science, particularly in oncology. Breakthrough drugs like Keytruda, Opdivo, and Yervoy have transformed certain cancers from near-certain death sentences into treatable — and sometimes even curable — conditions. But not every patient benefits from these revolutionary treatments. In a surprising twist a few years ago, researchers discovered an unconventional way to overcome resistance to immunotherapy. The method? Collecting gut microbes from — yes — poop donated by healthy individuals or patients who've responded well to treatment, and transferring them to those who aren't seeing results. "Crazy, right?" Jen Wargo, a professor of surgical oncology and genomic medicine, and the leader of the Platform for Innovative Microbiome and Translational Research at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, tells me. "It's like, who would have thought a poop transplant would work in cancer, you know?" The goal is to reshape the microbiome — the vast, intricate community of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes in the gut that plays a critical role in regulating the immune system and overall health. It turns out that the right mix of gut microbes might be a game-changer in the fight against cancer. At the same time, studies in this field highlight the benefits of a diet rich in fiber from a variety of whole, plant-based foods and the potential harms of broad-spectrum antibiotics, which can disrupt this delicate ecosystem. Earlier this month, I wrote extensively in Businessweek about how researchers are hacking the microbiome to transform fecal matter into medicine. Pivotal trials in cancer patients are set to report results early next year, but scientists are also exploring dozens of other potential applications, from diabetes and depression to inflammatory bowel disease and Parkinson's. While research so far has produced mixed results, progress is accelerating with the help of artificial intelligence. By analyzing large datasets, AI is helping scientists uncover the disease-modifying potential of microbes and their immunological and biological features, paving the way for more targeted treatments. Read my story and see what you think: Gross or good? — Jason Gale | 
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