Leveraging bacterial hypoxia targeting, KBTO NPs accumulate at the tumor site. Under the ultrasound irradiation, KBTO NPs produce reactive oxygen species to kill tumor cells and eliminate bacteria, p....

Scientists at the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST) discovered a naturally occurring bacterium, Ewingella americana, from Japanese tree frogs that completely eliminated colorectal tumors in mice with a single intravenous dose. The bacterium attacks cancer cells directly by thriving in the low-oxygen environments of tumors and stimulates the immune system by attracting T cells, B cells, and neutrophils. This dual mechanism led to a 100% complete response rate in mice, outperforming standard therapies like immune checkpoint inhibitors and chemotherapy. The bacteria specifically target tumors due to factors like low oxygen levels, CD47 protein suppression, and leaky tumor blood vessels, avoiding healthy organs. Safety tests showed rapid clearance from the bloodstream with no chronic toxicity. Future research aims to apply this approach to other cancers and optimize treatment methods. The study highlights the potential of biodiversity in developing new medical treatments.

Researchers reveal that gut microbiota influence the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in cancer treatment, with specific bacterial strains enhancing or inhibiting anti-tumor immuni...