Advances in bacterial cancer therapies using synthetic biology.

Synthetic biology aims to apply engineering principles to biology by modulating the behavior of living organisms. An emerging application of this field is the engineering of bacteria as a cancer therapy by the programming of therapeutic, safety, and specificity features through genetic modification. Here, we review progress in this engineering including the targeting of bacteria to tumors, specific sensing and response to tumor microenvironments, remote induction methods, and controllable release of therapeutics. We discuss the most prominent bacteria strains used and their specific properties and the types of therapeutics tested thus far. Finally, we note current challenges, such as genetic stability, that researchers must address for successful clinical implementation of this novel therapy in humans.