Researchers turn a common food‑borne bacteria Listeria into a targeted courier to deliver potent cancer-killing proteins into one of the deadliest cancers, colorectal cancer cells, using in vitro and in vivo models.

Scientists have repurposed the food-borne bacteria Listeria to serve as a targeted delivery system for cancer-killing proteins, specifically targeting colorectal cancer cells. Using in vitro and in vivo models, researchers successfully harnessed Listeria's natural ability to invade host cells, utilizing it to transport potent therapeutic proteins directly to cancerous tissues. This innovative approach leverages the bacteria's inherent pathogenicity to selectively target and destroy cancer cells, showcasing a promising new avenue in cancer treatment. The study's findings demonstrate the potential for Listeria-based therapies to combat colorectal cancer and other malignancies.