What is BLISS?

The Bacillus Lipase Integrated Secretion System (BLISS) is a groundbreaking probiotic developed to address Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). Through genetic engineering, B. subtilis has been modified to produce human pancreatic lipase in addition to its naturally secreted amylase and protease, functioning as a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy.

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individuals worldwide suffer from chronic pancreatitis. At least

80%

of individuals with chronic pancreatitis develop EPI.

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individuals worldwide suffer from cystic fibrosis. At least

90%

of cystic fibrosis patients develop EPI.

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individuals worldwide suffer from Type 1 Diabetes. At least

77%

of Type 1 Diabetes patients develop EPI.

Malnourished Woman

Individuals with EPI suffer from a deficiency in digestive enzymes and are thus unable to hydrolyze and break down food into nutrients for the body. This can lead to severe malnutrition for EPI patients, resulting in long-term complications including arrhythmia, anemia, and osteoporosis.

Current treatment for EPI involves pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) using medications from porcine pancreases. However, this treatment poses challenges for individuals avoiding pork and raises ethical and environmental concerns.

Sad Pig

The drawbacks of existing PERT medications inspire us to develop a more ethical, affordable, and inclusive EPI treatment by harnessing the potential of synthetic biology to reshape healthcare and society...

Our Solution

Gears
Engineer B. subtilis to express digestive enzymes.
Yogurt
In the future, probiotic will be placed in yogurt.
Enjoying BLISS
Yogurt will be consumed by EPI patients.
Pancreas Xray
Digestive enzymes will be replenished!

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Project Description

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Engineering

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Modeling

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Human Practices

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