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Applied Sciences OPEN ACCESS

Engineered Bacteria as Living Therapeutics: Design, Applications, and Clinical Challenge

Ishika Baranwal
Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Gomti Nagar Extension, Lucknow - 226028, India
Aditi Singh
Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Gomti Nagar Extension, Lucknow - 226028, India
DOI Crossref DOI 10.37547/tajas/warm-06
tajas 2026
JOURNAL PUBLICATION MAY
FULL TEXT PP. 56-63
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VOLUME —
ISSUE —
YEAR 2026
PAGES 56-63
RESEARCH OVERVIEW

Abstract

Living therapeutics" is an innovative category of living organisms that can be engineered to prevent, detect, and treat human diseases. With the help of synthetic biology and genetic engineering, microbial cells with the ability to recognize disease-associated cues, synthesize drugs within the host body, and respond to complex biological environments have now been created. This review explores the fundamental approaches used for constructing engineered bacteria, such as the creation of synthetic gene circuits, selecting suitable hosts or chassis, and incorporating biosensing and biocontainment strategies. Finally, we discuss the primary applications of engineered bacteria with a focus on gastrointestinal disease treatment, cancer therapy, metabolic disease management, and infectious disease treatment. Despite all of this, however, there are numerous hurdles yet to be conquered, including issues related to safety, genetic stability, targeted delivery, and regulatory clearance. For bacterial systems to move from the lab bench to the bedside, certain parameters need to be taken care of. On the whole, genetically modified bacteria represent an exciting frontier within the field of precision medicine, with the capacity to revolutionize therapeutic strategies with highly selective interventions.

RESEARCH TOPICS

Keywords

Genetic engineering CRISPR-Cas Escherichia coli Lactobacillus

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