A "living" drug has been created that self-regulates blood sugar levels

Scientists from East China Normal University in Shanghai have developed a genetically modified probiotic called GIFT, which is capable of responding to changes in glucose levels in the body and releasing the hormone GLP-1, involved in regulating blood sugar. The results of the study have been published in the scientific journal Nature.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to Nature, the researchers used synthetic biology methods to modify a probiotic bacterium, turning it into a kind of "intelligent virtual organ." After oral administration, the bacterium temporarily resides in the intestine, where it monitors glucose levels and, when necessary, produces glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).

The mechanism of GIFT operates on the "sense and respond" principle. When glucose concentration changes, the bacteria are able to adjust the amount of hormone released. In the future, this could potentially allow the active substance to be delivered precisely when the body needs it, instead of requiring constant medication or injections.

According to the researchers, the technology could potentially have advantages over some experimental cell-based treatment methods. GIFT does not require the transplantation of mammalian cells, which reduces risks associated with immune reactions. Furthermore, unlike bacteria that constantly produce GLP-1, the new probiotic releases the hormone only upon receiving the appropriate signal.

The study's author, Professor Ye Haifeng, noted that GIFT combines glucose level monitoring with on-demand GLP-1 release, opening a new approach to blood sugar control.

However, the development is still at an experimental stage. The results obtained do not mean that GIFT is already a proven method of treating diabetes. Further research will be required to confirm the technology's efficacy and safety.