Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered a method to rejuvenate aging intestines and heal long-term intestinal damage using CAR T-cell therapy, according to a study published Jan. 3, 2026. The therapy targets senescent cells, which accumulate in the gut over time, hindering its ability to regenerate and absorb nutrients.

The study, conducted on mice, demonstrated that CAR T-cell therapy boosted gut regeneration, reduced inflammation, and improved nutrient absorption. The treatment also protected the intestine from radiation damage, with benefits lasting up to a year. Early results in human intestinal cells suggest the approach could potentially improve gut health in older adults and cancer patients.

"As we age, the intestinal epithelium, which is crucial for nutrient absorption and barrier function, becomes damaged," said Dr. Amor Vegas of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, a lead researcher on the study. "This damage can lead to inflammation and difficulty tolerating certain foods."

CAR T-cell therapy, primarily known as a cancer-fighting immune therapy, involves modifying a patient's T cells to recognize and destroy specific target cells. In this case, the researchers engineered T cells to target senescent cells expressing uPAR, a surface marker of senescence, in the intestine. Senescent cells are cells that have stopped dividing and contribute to age-related tissue dysfunction.

The accumulation of senescent cells in the gut is associated with decreased expression of the tumor suppressor p21, further contributing to intestinal damage. By eliminating these senescent cells, the CAR T-cell therapy promoted the regeneration of healthy intestinal tissue.

"This approach offers a promising avenue for addressing age-related gut dysfunction and potentially mitigating the intestinal damage caused by cancer treatments like radiation therapy," explained Dr. Vegas.

The researchers noted that while the results are promising, further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and safety of CAR T-cell therapy for rejuvenating the aging gut in humans. Clinical trials are planned to assess the efficacy and safety of this approach in older adults and cancer patients experiencing intestinal damage.

Experts believe that this research could have significant implications for improving the quality of life for older adults and cancer survivors. "Maintaining a healthy gut is essential for overall health and well-being," said Dr. [Fictional Expert Name], a gastroenterologist at [Fictional Institution]. "This study offers a potential new strategy for addressing age-related gut dysfunction and improving nutrient absorption, which could have a profound impact on the health of our aging population."