(Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard) Harvard Wyss Institute researchers developed a living material approach that uses a strain of genetically engineered E.coli Nissle bacteria as a locally acting probiotic. The engineered bacteria produce a network of nanofibers that directly binds to mucus to fill inflamed areas like a patch, shielding them from gut microbes and environmental factors. This probiotic-based therapeutic strategy protected mice against the effects of colitis induced by a chemical agent and promoted mucosal healing.

Original source: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-12/wifb-emh120519.php