This was evidenced by pronounced alterations in gene expression associated with pathways involved in melanoma progression, as well as cadherin switching and increased secretion of cytokines, such as VEGF and GM-CSF, along with the melanoma marker MIA.<h4>Discussion</h4>This study is the first to demonstrate the feasibility of using 3D melanoma models to investigate the impact of skin bacteria on melanoma biology, thereby paving the way for elucidating causal mechanisms <i>in situ</i>. The gene discussed is CDH17; the disease is melanoma.