Using engineered probiotics to treat autoimmune diseases
Official title: Engineered probiotic for the treatment of autoimmune diseases
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11030844 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with autoimmune diseases by using a special probiotic that can be taken by mouth, which delivers helpful proteins to calm down the immune system, making treatment easier and more comfortable than current injections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | March 20, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $692,859 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI173318-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030844 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with autoimmune diseases who are not responsive to probiotic treatments or those who require immediate intervention may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating autoimmune diseases by using a specially engineered probiotic that can deliver therapeutic peptides orally. The study focuses on developing a strain of Lactobacillus reuteri that produces an immunomodulatory peptide designed to inhibit the activation of T lymphocytes, which play a key role in autoimmune responses. By providing a non-invasive treatment option, the research aims to improve patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes compared to current injectable biologics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more convenient and effective treatment option for patients with autoimmune diseases, reducing the need for frequent injections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using engineered probiotics for therapeutic purposes, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beeton, Christine — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Beeton, Christine
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.