Development of innovative colorectal cancer prevention method by improving intestinal flora

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 21K05353
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 38020:Applied microbiology-related
• Research Institution: Hyogo Medical University
• Principal Investigator: Matsunaga Wataru 兵庫医科大学, 医学部 共同利用研究施設, 助教 (20415300)
• Co-Investigator(Kenkyū-buntansha): 後藤 章暢 兵庫医科大学, 医学部, 教授 (70283885)
• Project Period (FY): 2021-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: 腸内フローラ / 乳酸菌 / 大腸菌 / TRAIL / インターフェロン

Outline of Final Research Achievements

In recent years, the gut microbiota has been reported to contribute to bodily functions beyond digestion and absorption. Additionally, abnormalities in the gut microbiota have been linked to colorectal cancer, garnering attention for research on methods to improve gut microbiota. In this context, we researched methods to improve the gut microbiota and prevent colorectal cancer through genetically modified E. coli.
In experiments aimed at improving the gut microbiota through the administration of lactobacilli, although there was a trend of increase in Lactobacillus species, no significant effect was observed. In the development of E. coli for colorectal cancer prevention, the expression of TRAIL was confirmed. However, stronger-than-expected toxicity to non-malignant cells was observed, leading us to develop E. coli expressing interferon.

Free Research Field

がん治療

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

本研究では、腸内フローラを介した大腸がん予防を目的として、体内に導入することを前提として、がん抑制遺伝子を産生する大腸菌を開発した。腸内フローラの構成に影響を与えられるかどうかについては問題もあるが、通過菌としてこれらの遺伝子操作した大腸菌はがん予防に寄与できると考えている。