Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered a potential method for rejuvenating aging intestines and repairing long-term intestinal damage using CAR T-cell therapy. The study, published January 3, 2026, details how the therapy targets senescent cells, which accumulate in the gut over time, hindering its ability to function properly.

The experimental treatment, tested in mice, resulted in boosted gut regeneration, reduced inflammation, and improved nutrient absorption, according to the research team. The therapy also demonstrated a protective effect against radiation damage to the intestine, with benefits lasting up to a year in the animal models.

"As we age, our gut's ability to repair itself diminishes, leading to various digestive issues and potentially impacting overall health," explained Dr. Amor Vegas, lead author of the study. "Our research suggests that by selectively eliminating these senescent cells, we can restore the gut's regenerative capacity."

CAR T-cell therapy, already utilized in cancer treatment, involves modifying a patient's own T cells to target and destroy specific cells. In this case, the T cells were engineered to target cells expressing uPAR, a surface marker found on senescent cells in the aged intestine.

The accumulation of senescent cells in the intestinal epithelium, the single layer of cells lining the gut, is believed to contribute to age-related decline in gut function. These cells exhibit a lack or absence of the tumor suppressor p21, further indicating their compromised state, researchers noted.

Early results from tests on human intestinal cells are promising, suggesting that this approach could eventually be translated to improve gut health in older adults and cancer patients undergoing treatments like radiation therapy, which can severely damage the intestinal lining.

"While these are early findings, the potential implications for improving the quality of life for older adults and mitigating the side effects of cancer treatment are significant," said Dr. Beyaz, a senior researcher involved in the study. "Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and safety of this approach in humans."

The researchers are currently conducting preclinical studies to optimize the therapy and assess its safety profile before moving to human clinical trials. The team hopes to begin initial clinical trials within the next two to three years to evaluate the effectiveness of CAR T-cell therapy in improving gut health in older adults experiencing age-related digestive issues. The study offers a potential avenue for addressing a common and often debilitating consequence of aging, paving the way for future therapies aimed at restoring youthful function to the aging gut.