Gut Bacteria as Immunotherapy

Treating Diseases with the Microbiome

The microbiome and its role
Countless bacteria, viruses, and fungi live in and on our bodies. Together, they form our microbiome and perform vital functions in the body. Most microbes are found in the gut and play a crucial role in our immune defense.

Promising research findings
This is where Michael Scharl comes in: Together with his team, he has already demonstrated that certain bacteria combat colon cancer cells. These bacteria are less common in patients than in healthy individuals. When administered to patients, they strengthen the immune system and help the body fight the disease—significantly improving the chances of recovery.

Focus on other diseases
Michael Scharl now aims to develop immunotherapies for other diseases: malignancies such as skin and lung cancer, as well as coronary heart disease. The team identifies the bacteria critical to the immune response using methods such as fecal transplantation. Patients are already benefiting from this approach even as the research is ongoing.

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