Researchers at Shandong University have modified the probiotic bacterium Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 to produce the anticancer drug Romidepsin directly in tumors. In mouse models of breast cancer, the engineered bacteria accumulated in tumors and released the drug. The findings were published on March 17 in PLOS Biology.
Cancer treatment faces challenges due to the disease's complexity, affecting millions worldwide each year. A study led by Tianyu Jiang of Shandong University in Qingdao, China, explores using engineered bacteria as targeted drug delivery systems. The team genetically modified Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN), a probiotic strain, to biosynthesize Romidepsin (FK228), an FDA-approved anticancer agent with properties effective against tumors. They introduced breast cancer cells into mice to create tumor models and administered the modified EcN bacteria. Experiments demonstrated that EcN colonized tumors in both lab settings and live animals, releasing Romidepsin precisely where needed. This approach combines bacterial tumor targeting with the drug's activity for a dual-action therapy. The authors state: 'The probiotic strain Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN), a potential member of tumor-targeting bacteria, shows great promise for cancer treatment. By leveraging engineered EcN, we can design a bacteria-assisted, tumor-targeted therapy for the biosynthesis and targeted delivery of small-molecule anticancer agents.' They further note: 'Escherichia coli Nissle 1917's tumor colonization synergizes with Romidepsin's anticancer activity to form a dual-action cancer therapy.' The research, detailed in PLOS Biology (2026; 24(3): e3003657), provides a foundation for future bacteria-mediated therapies but has not been tested in humans. Additional studies are required to assess side effects and safe bacteria clearance.
