Gut microbiota and diet in colorectal cancer: Converging determinants of carcinogenesis

, and discuss how diet governs their abundance, toxin production, and oncogenic potential. Mechanistic investigations into diet-microbe interactions reveal how pro-inflammatory, low-fiber Western-style diets foster mucosal inflammation, generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and genotoxic microbial niches, whereas fiber- and polyphenol-rich diets support protective commensals and production of anti-inflammatory metabolites. We also outline major challenges, including interindividual microbiome variability and limited translational models, and propose future directions for integrating dietary, microbial, and host-targeted strategies for CRC prevention and therapy.