Genetically modified hookworms could protect against deadly pufferfish toxin

Using CRISPR gene editing, researchers genetically modified human hookworms to produce a therapeutic antibody that neutralized approximately 16% of tetrodotoxin in laboratory tests. The engineered worms successfully integrated into hamster hosts, producing biologically active antibodies without disrupting the parasites' other secreted molecules.

This is an early-stage proof-of-concept in animal models; clinical translation remains future research.