Towards Understanding Tumour Colonisation by Probiotic Bacterium E. coli Nissle 1917 Original paper
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Divine Aleru
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Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Microbes
Microbes
Microbes, short for microorganisms, are tiny living organisms that are ubiquitous in the environment, including on and inside the human body. They play a crucial role in human health and disease, functioning within complex ecosystems in various parts of the body, such as the skin, mouth, gut, and respiratory tract. The human microbiome, which is […]
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Divine Aleru
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Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
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Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
The study reviewed the tumour-homing capabilities of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN), particularly its use in cancer detection and treatment. The ability of genetically modified EcN to target and colonize tumour tissue, bypassing normal tissues, has made it an attractive candidate for cancer therapies. The review examined the biological mechanisms underlying EcN’s preferential localization to tumors and discussed its potential as a tool for tumor detection and targeted drug delivery.
Who was studied?
The research primarily involved pre-clinical animal models, particularly mice, in which EcN was tested for its ability to localize within various types of tumors, including colorectal and melanoma. Human clinical studies are referenced, but the primary focus remains on animal models used to understand EcN’s tumour-targeting capabilities.
Most important findings
EcN demonstrates the ability to colonize tumors over healthy tissue selectively. The mechanisms behind this preferential targeting are not yet fully understood, but they are believed to involve factors such as tumour vasculature, immune evasion, and metabolic conditions within the tumour. EcN’s properties, such as its ability to survive in diverse environmental conditions and express adhesins, allow it to thrive in tumour microenvironments. Genetic modifications have enhanced its potential for delivering therapeutic payloads, including immune-activating compounds and cytotoxic proteins, effectively reducing tumour burdens in animal models.
Key implications
The study suggests that EcN could be engineered for more effective tumour detection and treatment. Understanding how EcN homed to tumour sites could lead to better-designed probiotic-based therapies, minimizing off-target effects and improving patient safety. Additionally, it could help address biosafety concerns for clinical applications, enabling broader use of EcN in oncology.
E. coli Nissle 1917
Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) is a rare, non-pathogenic strain of E. coli discovered during World War I from a soldier who did not get dysentery while others did. Unlike harmful E. coli, EcN acts as a probiotic: it settles in the gut, competes with bad bacteria for food and space, produces natural antimicrobials, and even helps strengthen the gut barrier.