This synthetic mucin mimics the natural mucus barrier in the gut, reinforcing the protective layer and improving gut health. Mucins are the key proteins that form the protective mucus layer in the gut and other mucosal tissues. In disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer, and enteric infections, the intestinal mucus layer is compromised and poses significant clinical challenges. When the mucus barrier is depleted, the gut is vulnerable to infection, inflammation, and tissue damage. Traditional therapies do not address the root cause, which is loss of mucus protection. Previous attempts at creating synthetic mucins have failed to fully replicate the properties of their natural mucins. They could not match the complex structure, viscoelasticity, and selective permeability of natural mucins. This has limited their ability to form a robust, functional barrier that effectively separates microbes from the intestinal lining while allowing the passage of nutrients and water.
Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a synthetic mucin that effectively mimics the size, architecture, and function of natural mucins. Advanced polymerization techniques are employed to control molecular weight, architecture, and the placement of functional groups. The resulting shear-labile interaction polymers closely match natural mucins, enabling effective restoration of the mucus barrier. The process utilizes simple polymerization techniques and common reagents, eliminating the need for rare biologicals. It is scalable for large-batch production for easy manufacturing. By directly addressing mucus depletion, these shear-labile interaction polymers set a new standard for gut barrier therapeutics.
First-in-class, biomimetic therapy for restoring the intestinal mucus barrier, enhancing protection against inflammation, infection, and application to restore the natural mucus barrier in gastrointestinal disease
University of Florida researchers leverage advanced copolymer compounds engineered to mimic the structure of natural mucins. By using photoiniferter polymerization processes, they create block, random, or gradient copolymers with carefully tuned molecular weights and functional group distributions. These polymers incorporate mucoadhesive monomers (such as boronic acid, carboxylic acid, and thiol groups) and biocompatible backbones (including polyacrylamide and poly (ethylene glycol) derivatives), resulting in water-soluble, ultra-high molecular weight materials that closely match the size and viscoelastic properties of native mucins. Administered orally or topically, shear-labile interaction polymers adhere to mucosal surfaces and integrate with existing mucus, forming a robust, gel-like barrier that allows the passage of nutrients and water while blocking pathogens and inflammatory triggers. In preclinical studies, shear-labile interaction polymers demonstrated safety and efficacy, protecting epithelial cells from bacterial invasion; restoring gut barrier integrity in animal models lacking natural mucus; reducing inflammatory cytokines; improving body composition; and maintaining healthy microbiome diversity. Unlike previous synthetic approaches, shear-labile interaction polymers achieve the scale, architecture, and biological function necessary for therapeutic impact, offering a new option for patients with mucus barrier dysfunction.
