Beijing: Chinese researchers have introduced an innovative medical solution: a “smart living glue” designed to treat intestinal diseases more effectively.
This newly developed technology is based on specific programmed bacteria that can travel through the digestive system, locate damaged areas, and actively support healing from within the intestines.
Experts describe this breakthrough as a promising advancement for treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). The study’s findings were recently published in the internationally respected journal Nature Biotechnology.
The research team modified a naturally occurring, harmless gut bacterium, E. coli, so that it remains inactive under normal conditions and responds only when intestinal injury is detected.
This collaborative study was carried out by scientists from the Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology in partnership with Shenzhen University, combining expertise in biotechnology and medical science.
An especially designed genetic mechanism was inserted into the bacteria, allowing it to activate only in the presence of intestinal bleeding—one of the key indicators of severe bowel inflammation and internal wounds.
Once the bacteria sense blood, they begin releasing a powerful adhesive protein inspired by materials found in marine organisms such as barnacles.
This protein forms a protective seal over the injured area, helping to stop bleeding while simultaneously releasing healing compounds that aid in repairing the intestinal lining.
The engineered bacteria are delivered into the body in liquid form, either orally or rectally, ensuring direct access to affected areas within the intestines.
After entering the gut, the bacteria attach only to damaged, bleeding tissues, forming a thin film that supports tissue repair and prevents further injury.
Researchers now aim to advance this “living glue” toward clinical trials, hoping it will become a safe and effective treatment option for patients with chronic inflammatory bowel diseases.
