Researchers develop glucose-sensing probiotic for diabetes treatment

Researchers led by Professor Ye Haifeng at East China Normal University have developed a genetically modified probiotic, named GIFT, designed to regulate blood sugar levels. Published in the journal Nature, the study describes a synthetic genetic circuit that allows the bacteria to act as a glucose sensor within the intestine.

Unlike traditional GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide, which provide a constant dose, this probiotic only releases a GLP-1 hormone analogue when it detects glucose levels exceeding a specific threshold. Once blood sugar returns to normal, the production automatically shuts off. This ‘detect and respond’ mechanism aims to reduce side effects associated with continuous hormonal exposure.

The bacteria are designed to colonize the intestine only temporarily, ensuring they are naturally eliminated from the body to prevent the long-term risks of permanent genetically modified organism presence. In trials involving diabetic monkeys, a single oral dose administered every three days maintained stable blood sugar levels for five consecutive weeks. Similar controlled responses were observed in mouse models.