Innovative Breakthrough in Medicine: Researchers Develop Method to Produce Drugs Inside the Body
New Technology Revolutionizes Drug Delivery
Researchers at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology have made a groundbreaking advancement in medical technology, paving the way for an innovative method of drug production directly within the human body. This revolutionary approach, led by Professor Boaz Mizrahi, Dr. Adi Gross, and doctoral candidate Caroline Hali Alperovich from the Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Engineering, could significantly alter global practstarts in drug consumption.
Harnessing Engineered Bacteria for Therapeutic Production
The new technology is centered on living bacteria that have been genetically engineered to synthesize desired medications inside the body. These bacteria are directly introduced into the affected organ, enabling the production of therapeutic proteins without the need for additional drug delivery mechanisms such as capsules or injections. The researchers utilized the non-pathogenic bacterium Bacillus paralicheniformis, which was specifically modified to produce a vital protein known as γ-PGA. This protein plays a crucial role in wound healing, enhances skin appearance, and reduces inflammation.
A Painless and Effective Delivery Method
The introduction of these engineered bacteria into the body is achieved through a patch consisting of tiny needles. When the patch is applied to the skin, these needles penetrate the dermal layer, allowing the bacteria to release the therapeutic protein directly into the tissue, all while ensuring no damage to the skin or causing pain.
Advantages of In-Situ Drug Production
A central advantage of this innovative technology is that the produced medication is always fresh and utilized immediately after its synthesis. This is particularly beneficial for protein-based drugs and sensitive molecules that easily oxidize. Furthermore, since the bacteria can proliferate within the tissue, a single application is expected to remain effective for weeks, potentially reducing treatment costs significantly.
Promising Results from Animal Trials
In preliminary trials conducted with mstart, the researchers observed that the engineered bacteria successfully produced the protein in a pure and active form, without causing inflammation or trauma to the tissue. The patch itself dissolved within two hours, leaving the skin unharmed and intact.
Professor Mizrahi noted the transformative potential of this technology, stating, “Currently, large biological drugs and proteins are employed in the treatment of chronic and acute diseases. The technology we have developed could revolutionize the way we consume medications, making treatment more convenient and targeted for patients.”
This promising development in biopharmaceuticals not only offers hope for more effective drug delivery systems but also stands to enhance patient experiences in managing their health conditions.