Researchers at a prominent U.S. university have developed a genetically engineered strain of bacteria designed to locate cancerous tumors inside a living organism and summon the body’s own immune system to attack the cancer cells. The approach relies on a programmable microbe that can home in on tumors and then trigger immune activity within the tumor microenvironment. The study reporting these findings appears in a peer‑reviewed scientific journal.
In this strategy, the engineered bacteria are a variant of Escherichia coli. Once they accumulate in a tumor, they gradually break down and release molecular signals that recruit immune cells to the site. Among the signals are chemokines, small proteins that help guide dendritic cells and cytotoxic T cells toward the tumor, initiating a targeted attack on malignant cells. Additionally, the researchers inserted genetic elements that produce proteins capable of slowing or halting the growth of tumor cells, offering a two‑pronged attack: direct anti‑tumor effects and immune system–mediated destruction.
Early experiments were conducted in mouse models. The results showed a strengthened immune response against tumors and an increased rate of tumor reduction when the bacteria were delivered directly into the tumor mass. Remarkably, comparable effects were observed when the bacteria were introduced into the bloodstream, with the important note that the bacteria preferentially colonized tumor tissue while avoiding healthy organs. These patterns of selective colonization help mitigate potential off‑target effects and are a key focus of ongoing safety assessments.
Scientists are continuing to refine the genetic program and delivery methods, with an eye toward advancing toward clinical testing. The work emphasizes rigorous preclinical evaluation, including dose optimization, safety profiling, and comprehensive monitoring of immune responses. If successful, this platform could become part of a broader cancer‑tighting toolkit, potentially complementing existing therapies and offering new options for patients in North America. The research team remains active in planning future studies that could address a variety of tumor types and account for differences among individuals, aiming to maximize benefit while maintaining safety and regulatory compliance in real‑world settings.