Engineering probiotics for therapeutic applications: recent examples and translational outlook

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology and Synthetic Biology
• Microbiology and Immunology
• Therapeutic Development

Background:

• Engineered probiotics represent a novel class of live biotherapeutics.
• Genetic modification allows probiotics to target specific diseases.
• Advancements in synthetic biology enhance the sophistication of probiotic engineering.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent examples of engineered probiotics for disease treatment.
• To discuss challenges and features for clinical translation.
• To highlight the potential of engineered probiotics as future therapies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of engineered probiotic applications.
• Analysis of current research in synthetic biology for probiotics.
• Examination of preclinical and clinical trial data.

Main Results:

• Engineered probiotics demonstrate efficacy in preclinical models for various diseases.
• Current applications target cancer, infections, metabolic disorders, and inflammation.
• No engineered probiotic products are currently approved, with few in clinical trials.

Conclusions:

• Engineered probiotics hold significant therapeutic potential.
• Clinical translation requires further development and incorporation of specific features.
• Realizing the full potential necessitates overcoming current translational barriers.