Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a novel strategy, inspired by cancer’s evasion mechanisms, to treat ulcerative colitis and other autoimmune conditions. By utilizing immune-suppressing tactics employed by cancer cells, they reprogram the immune system to target specific cell types involved in autoimmune diseases, building on previous studies focusing on Type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
The treatment involves injections containing a combination of colon cells, extracellular matrix components, and polymer nanofibers carrying immune-suppressing molecules used by cancer cells. It effectively reduced ulcerative colitis symptoms and colon inflammation in mice, selectively targeting immune activity against the colon without broadly suppressing immunity. Additionally, it showed promise in reducing the development of colon tumors, a common complication of ulcerative colitis, while allowing for effective cancer immunotherapy. These findings suggest a new avenue for treating ulcerative colitis and other autoimmune diseases.
Reference: UT Southwestern Medical Center News Team. Bioengineered approach shows promise in ulcerative colitis. UT Southwestern Medical Center. Published January 16, 2024. Accessed April 9, 2024. https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/newsroom/articles/year-2024/jan-bioengineered-approach-ulcerative-colitis.html
