Using bugs as drugs: Administration of bacteria-related microbes to fight cancer

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Oncology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Engineered bacteria offer potential for targeted cancer therapy.
• Current administration routes include intravenous, intratumoral, intraperitoneal, and oral delivery.
• The route of administration influences the mechanisms of anticancer effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of bacteria administration routes for cancer treatment.
• To discuss challenges and solutions, including microencapsulation.
• To review advancements in combining engineered bacteria with functional particles and 3D bioprinting for personalized cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of bacteria administration routes in cancer therapy.
• Discussion of microencapsulation techniques for bacteria delivery.
• Exploration of synergistic approaches combining engineered bacteria with functional particles and 3D bioprinting.
• Analysis of regulatory considerations for clinical translation.

Main Results:

• Different administration routes have distinct advantages, limitations, and mechanisms of action.
• Microencapsulation can mitigate challenges associated with free bacteria administration.
• Combining engineered bacteria with functional particles and 3D bioprinting shows potential for enhanced and personalized cancer treatment.
• Regulatory aspects are crucial for the clinical translation of bacteriotherapy.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing bacteria administration routes is key for effective cancer bacteriotherapy.
• Advanced strategies like microencapsulation, functional particle conjugation, and 3D bioprinting are advancing the field.
• Personalized cancer treatment through engineered bacteria holds significant future promise, pending regulatory considerations.