Engineered bacteria displaying a specific protein called ClbS can reduce DNA damage caused by a toxin produced by other bacteria, with higher levels of the protein nearly eliminating the damage in human cells grown in the lab.

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Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

40

Community contributions welcome

40

Surface expression of antitoxin on engineered bacteria neutralizes genotoxic colibactin in the gut

Randomized Controlled Trial

Human & Animal & In Vitro

2026 Jan

Scientists modified harmless E. coli bacteria to wear a special shield (ClbS) that catches a harmful toxin made by other gut bacteria. This shield stopped the toxin from damaging human cells in the lab, just like the claim says.

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No contradicting evidence found

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Source Study

Surface expression of antitoxin on engineered bacteria neutralizes genotoxic colibactin in the gut

Score: 40

DOI: 10.1038/s41564-025-02177-3

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