TREATMENT OF INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD) USING GENETICALLY ENGINEERED K.LACTIS

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) consisting of Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), is a consistent inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract largely driven by immune dysfunction and atypical gut microbiome. Genetic predispositions as well as abnormal upregulation of cytokines like IL-23, IL-17, TNF-α and IFN-γ maintains the permanent inflammatory condition of the gut. The disease is also associated with environmental factors such as antibiotic use, lifestyle, diet, exposure to toxins, that can compromise the mucosal barrier. Despite multiple treatment options being available now, some cases stay refractory eventually requiring surgical intervention. Considering the complex etiology of IBD, effective treatment strategy often needs to be patient-specific. IBD has become a substantial and expanding public health issue, with the prevalence growing worldwide, particularly among young adults and children. Its incidence rates have remained persistently increased between 1990 and 2021. This tendency establishes the necessity for urgent and targeted management with IBD. Given the restrictions of current therapies, this study explores the potential of genetically engineered yeast, Kluyveromyces lactis (K.lactis) and its role in relieving inflammation in vivo models.