Researchers Develop Experimental 'Living Eye Drops' Using Engineered Bacteria to Heal Corneas
By
Samantha Agate
Crackling crust, pillowy middle. The kind of bagel that earns a second cup of coffee.
Summary
Researchers are developing experimental "living eye drops" that use genetically engineered bacteria to heal the cornea. The therapy, created by Feldan Therapeutics, uses a bacterium called Caulobacter crescentus that naturally adheres to the eye's surface and secretes therapeutic proteins. The drops are designed to treat dry eye disease and corneal damage with a single application, potentially lasting for weeks. The bacteria are engineered to be non-replicating and are killed before use, making them safe. The treatment is still in early stages, with human clinical trials expected to begin in 2027.
Key quotes
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'The idea is to create a single-dose treatment that could provide relief for weeks, rather than requiring patients to apply drops multiple times a day,' Tanguay explained.
'We chose Caulobacter crescentus because it naturally adheres to the cornea and doesn't cause disease in humans,' said lead researcher Dr. Marie-Ève Paquet.
'The bacteria are engineered so they cannot replicate, and they are killed before being applied to the eye, so there is no risk of infection,' Paquet added.
'If successful, this could be a game-changer for millions of people suffering from chronic dry eye and corneal injuries,' Tanguay said.
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