Interactive workshop “Engineered lactic acid probiotic bacteria delivering cytokines to treat intestinal inflammation” under the SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Bein

In support of SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being, an interactive workshop with students of Biotechnology program on a topic in biomedical science “Engineered lactic acid probiotic bacteria delivering cytokines to treat intestinal inflammation” was held.

During the session, students explored how lactic acid bacteria – traditionally known for their role in gut health – are being transformed through modern biotechnology into living therapeutic platforms. Participants discussed how genetic engineering enables these bacteria to produce and locally release anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10, creating targeted treatment strategies for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.

Participants examined current research demonstrating the advantages of this approach: reduced systemic side-effects, improved delivery efficiency, and the possibility of long-term modulation of the gut environment. Preclinical results, challenges of strain engineering, biosafety considerations, and the future potential of such “next-generation probiotics” in personalized medicine have also been reviewed.

The workshop fostered active discussion, critical thinking, and teamwork. Students reflected on how innovative biotherapeutic technologies contribute to healthier communities and align with global sustainability goals by promoting accessible, safe, and biologically driven treatments.

The event was organized by A.A. Meldеbekova and N.S. Mamytova, candidates of biological sciences.