Table of Contents
New research demonstrates that engineered immune cells, called anti-uPAR CAR T cells, can significantly improve gut health and accelerate healing in both young and old mice, offering potential benefits for cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy and for addressing age-related intestinal issues. The study,conducted by researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) and led by Amor Vegas,builds upon previous work showing these cells effectively remove senescent cells – cells that contribute to aging and inflammation – leading to metabolic improvements.https://www.cshl.edu/news/car-t-cells-heal-gut/
Restoring Gut Function with Targeted Immune Cells
The core of this research lies in the use of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cells. These are immune cells genetically engineered to target and destroy cells expressing a specific protein. In this case, the target is uPAR (urokinase plasminogen activator receptor), a protein found in elevated levels on senescent cells.
Amor vegas and her team previously showed that eliminating senescent cells with anti-uPAR CAR T cells improved metabolism in mice. Their latest work, in collaboration with CSHL Assistant Professor Semir Beyaz and graduate student Onur Eskiocak, investigated whether this approach could also restore the intestine’s ability to heal.
The results were encouraging. Delivering CAR T cells directly to the intestines of both younger and older mice led to:
* Improved Nutrient Absorption: The mice were better able to absorb essential nutrients from their food.
* Reduced Inflammation: Inflammation within the gut was significantly decreased.
* Faster Regeneration: the intestinal lining, crucial for gut function, healed more quickly after injury.
“In both cases, we see really significant improvements,” says Amor Vegas.https://www.cshl.edu/news/car-t-cells-heal-gut/
Protecting Against Radiation-Induced Gut Damage
A particularly promising application of this therapy is in mitigating the gut damage caused by radiation therapy, a common treatment for cancers affecting the pelvic and abdominal regions. Radiation often leads to “leaky gut syndrome,” where the intestinal barrier becomes compromised, allowing bacteria and toxins to enter the bloodstream.
To simulate this, the researchers exposed mice to radiation that damaged their intestinal epithelial cells. Mice treated with CAR T cells demonstrated significantly better recovery compared to those without the therapy. Importantly, a single dose of CAR T-cell treatment provided benefits for at least a year. https://www.cshl.edu/news/car-t-cells-heal-gut/
Potential for Human Application and Understanding Aging
The research isn’t limited to mice. Eskiocak notes that the team also found evidence that anti-uPAR CAR T cells promote regeneration in human intestinal and colorectal cells in vitro (in a lab setting).While the exact mechanisms driving this regenerative effect are still under investigation, the findings suggest a strong potential for therapeutic use in humans.
Beyaz emphasizes the broader implications of this work. “This is one good step toward a long journey in understanding how we can better heal the elderly,” he stated. https://www.cshl.edu/news/car-t-cells-heal-gut/
Key Takeaways:
* Targeted Senescence Removal: Anti-uPAR CAR T cells selectively eliminate senescent cells in the gut.
* Improved Gut Health: This leads to better nutrient absorption, reduced inflammation, and faster healing.
* Radiation Protection: The therapy effectively protects against gut damage caused by radiation therapy.
* Potential for Aging Research: The findings offer insights into improving gut health and healing in older individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are senescent cells?
A: Senescent cells are cells that have stopped dividing but don’t die off. They accumulate with age and contribute to inflammation and tissue dysfunction.https://www.mayo.edu/research/research-programs/aging/senescence
Q: What are CAR T-cells?
A: CAR T-cells are immune cells (T-cells) that have been genetically modified to express a Chimeric Antigen Receptor (
Keep reading