Cure8 research brief
The study explores a novel, non-invasive way to deliver an IL-23–blocking protein to the gut using engineered Lactococcus lactis, which could eventually offer an alternative to systemic biologics for controlling intestinal inflammation if human studies succeed.
Researchers studying IBD therapies, drug-delivery scientists, translational clinicians interested in biologic alternatives, and anyone following preclinical advances in IL-23–targeted treatment strategies.
The researchers tested two non-antibody binding proteins (ILP317 targeting IL-23p19 and REX115 targeting IL-23R) in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and TNBS mouse models of colitis. They compared soluble intraperitoneal protein delivery with oral administration via yogurt-coated food pellets containing Lactococcus lactis engineered to express the proteins.
Oral L. lactis expressing ILP317 produced consistent protective effects in these mouse models; REX115 had less-pronounced effects when given orally. Intraperitoneal (soluble) administration of either binder reduced disease measures. The authors propose that non-colonizing L.
lactis delivering an IL-23p19 inhibitor could be a promising preclinical strategy for non-invasive modulation of intestinal inflammation.
This is early research, so it may help explain disease biology or future treatment ideas without changing care decisions today.
Review the original publication for the complete reporting, methods, and context.
This Cure8 brief is based on source text from the linked article. Cure8 is informational only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This study explores a novel, non-invasive way to block IL-23 — an important inflammatory driver in IBD — by orally delivering small IL-23 inhibitors using engineered Lactococcus lactis in mouse colitis models.
ECCO 2026 presented multiple studies that could change IBD care across prevention, medical therapy (including pediatric data), complication‑directed strategies (perianal fistula), and technology‑assisted monitoring....
This reports phase 2b trial results showing a fixed-dose combination of two biologics (anti‑TNF + anti‑IL‑23) improved outcomes in people with refractory IBD compared with one biologic alone.
