Work

Genetically engineered bacteria with jacketed biofilm for enhancing drug delivery into tumor

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: MG1655 (EC) to autonomously produce a biofilm "jacket" on its surface (termed MEC) by regulating the expression of the biofilm-associated Csg gene cluster. This biofilm coating markedly enhances drug adsorption (1.7-fold increase for the model drug indocyanine green, ICG) and effectively prevents off-target leakage during systemic circulation. Benefiting from its tumor-homing capability and biofilm-mediated protection, MEC can deliver substantially more ICG into tumor inner regions. In murine tumor models, MEC-mediated delivery achieves significantly enhanced intratumoral drug retention and photothermal efficacy in comparison with the wild-type bacterial carrier. This work demonstrates an effective tumor-targeted drug delivery strategy based on genetically engineered biofilm technology, offering a promising avenue for precision bacterial oncology.

Source: Materials Today Bio

DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2025.102692