Researchers have engineered bacteria to detect DNA mutations in the KRAS gene, which is associated with colorectal cancer. The bacteria, called “biosensors,” can capture tumor DNA shed into the gut and trigger a signal indicating cancer detection. In a study, the engineered bacteria were able to detect mutated DNA in mice with colorectal tumors. The technology has potential for non-invasive cancer diagnosis and targeted therapy. The bacteria can be designed to detect specific mutations and respond in different ways, making it a modular and adaptable approach.
While the technology is still in its early stages, experts believe it has potential for various clinical uses, including detecting cancer in patient blood samples or delivering treatments directly to tumors. However, more work is needed to develop and fine-tune the technology for human use. The researchers are exploring ways to adapt the system for use with bacteria that can live in the human gut and to engineer bacteria that can detect multiple genetic mutations at once. The study’s findings were published in Science and have sparked interest in the potential of bacterial biosensors for cancer detection and treatment.