Faecal Microbiota Transplants

A faecal microbiota transplant (FMT) is the introduction of microbiome material from a healthy donor into a patient.

Currently, FMTs are used to treat patients suffering from Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), a type of bacterial infection that causes severe diarrhoea and potentially life-threatening complications.

But the potential of FMTs is not limited to curing C. difficile infections. Researchers globally are exploring FMTs for a variety of other indications such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Autism.

Locally, AMILI has been studying the use of FMTs for IBD, in addition to a number of other conditions.

A pioneer of FMTs in SEA, AMILI set up SEA’s first stool bank for FMTs in early 2020. Since then, we have provided FMT preparations to a number of hospitals and clinics in the region.

Modes of FMT administration

FMT preparations can be delivered via capsules, colonoscopies, nasoenteric tubes, and enemas. While AMILI currently only offers FMT preparations to be administered via colonoscopy, FMT preparations for alternative administration routes are in our pipeline.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscope is advanced into the small or large intestine (as clinically appropriate), where the FMT preparation is then administered.

Enema

The FMT preparation is administered in the distal colon for lower GI tract delivery.

Capsules

Capsules filled with FMT preparations are administered from the upper gastrointestinal tract (typically oral administration). These capsules are designed to break down in the gut.

Nasoenteric Tube

The FMT preparation is administered via a nasoenteric tube for delivery.