In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of the human microbiota (the collection of all the micro-organisms that live on our bodies) in many diseases. Research on the microbiota is complemented by research on probiotics and the use of bacteria in medical treatment (bacteriotherapy). Safe bacteria from the lactic acid bacteria group (lactobacilli, lactococci), otherwise found in fermented food products, are often used for this purpose.
Our research involves genetic engineering of lactic acid bacteria in order to develop systems for delivery of therapeutic agents to different mucosal surfaces. Our aim is to develop multifunctional bacteria that can achieve a synergistic effect by producing active substances at the site of action. Thus, we have developed bacteria capable of binding various proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNFα, IL-17, IL-23 and chemokines) for the treatment of chronic inflammatory bowel disease, bacteria for toxin binding, for cancer cell recognition and for the delivery of viral antigens for vaccination. We are also developing methods to improve lactic acid bacteria research. This work includes the evaluation of new anchors for surface display, the development of methods for monitoring lactic acid bacteria, and tools for genomic modification of lactic acid bacteria.
In the new research, we will continue to develop new methods and advanced therapeutic applications of lactic acid bacteria, with a focus on the introduction of postbiotic solutions.