In a study using three mouse models, researchers developed a novel ulcerative colitis treatment using a colon-specific immunosuppressive niche combining colon cells, decellularized matrix, and nanofibers. This method reduced gastrointestinal inflammation, repaired epithelial damage, and prevented colitis-induced colorectal cancer and immune-related colitis. It worked by deactivating autoreactive T cells, altering macrophages, and preventing immune cell infiltration in the colon.
Reference: Au KM, Wilson JE, Ting JP, Wang AZ. An injectable subcutaneous colon-specific immune niche for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Nat Biomed Eng. Published online December 4, 2023. doi:10.1038/s41551-023-01136-9
