Antibiotics

Scrubbing bubbles: Microparticles clean wounds, surgical instruments with tiny bubbles

Researchers developed microparticles that infiltrate stubborn bacterial matrices and release tiny oxygen bubbles to clean surfaces and wounds efficiently. The particles were shown to effectively clean surgical instruments and infected wounds, accelerating healing and reducing inflammation.

Waste cotton stalks and eggshells transformed into reusable biochar for antibiotic removal from wastewater

Researchers have developed a biochar adsorbent that combines physical and chemical interactions to capture tetracycline molecules. The material showed high tetracycline adsorption capacity and good resistance to coexisting ions, suggesting potential for repeated operation.

DZIF project nominated for the “Science Breakthrough of the Year 2026” award

The DZIF-supported project PROTON aims to develop innovative agents against Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterial pathogen responsible for severe lung infections. The active agent, a pathoblocker, targets the toxin that destroys lung tissue and immune cells, reducing antibiotic resistance.

Antibiotics reverse damage caused to blood stem cells by chronic Salmonella

A new study from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev found that long-term Salmonella infections severely damage blood stem cells. However, researchers discovered that giving an effective course of antibiotics fully restores the stem cells' health and rebuilds their power.

Scientists measure hidden quantum forces that could power a new generation of pharmaceutical drugs

Researchers at Texas A&M University develop a laser technique called TRIP to directly measure quantum forces shaping proteins, enabling accurate prediction of how pharmaceutical drugs interact with them. This breakthrough could lead to the design of medicines tailored to specific diseases, revolutionizing precision medicine.

Landmark study reveals ‘megacluster’ of bacterial genes behind arsenal of potent antibiotics

Researchers at McMaster University discovered a 'megacluster' of genes in Streptomyces bacteria that produces four antibiotics working together to target biotin. The study found that the anti-biotin antibiotic megacluster is widespread across different species, suggesting it evolved long ago and has been conserved over millions of years.

Antibiotic resistance threatens vision in pets and horses, new veterinary review warns

A comprehensive review examines global trends in antimicrobial resistance in animal eye infections, warning that multidrug-resistant bacteria are becoming more common. The authors call for earlier diagnostic testing, targeted antibiotic use, and stronger infection-control measures to preserve treatment options.

New antibiotic attacks bacteria in never-before-seen way

Scientists discovered a new antibiotic called manikomycin that binds to the ribosome, halting protein synthesis and blocking an important molecule from exiting. This action makes it harder for bacteria to develop resistance, as they need to jump through hoops to find resistance.

McMaster researchers discover a new antibiotic — and a new way to kill drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers have discovered a new antibiotic called manikomycin that targets the ribosome's exit site, making it effective against priority pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli. The discovery builds on work over 75 years ago, using an advanced laboratory technique to uncover a new compound.

Antibiotics for common sore throats have very limited effect on Strep spread

A recent study by University of Gothenburg researchers found that antibiotics for uncomplicated acute sore throats have minimal preventive effect against serious streptococcal infections. Early recognition of warning signs is crucial, and a vaccine is being awaited as a long-term solution.

Researchers discover how to turn one germ's drug resistance into an Achilles' heel

Researchers discovered that a common rifampicin-resistance mutation in tuberculosis creates subtle metabolic weaknesses, which could be exploited with future combination therapies. The most common mutation slows bacterial RNA polymerase, creating vulnerabilities that other therapies may target.

New antibiotic design could help treat drug-resistant infections

Researchers at King's College London have developed a new approach called 'Efflux Resistance Breaker' (ERB), designed to overcome one way bacteria escape antibiotic treatment. This allows antibiotics to remain inside bacterial cells at higher concentrations, restoring their ability to kill bacteria even with resistance mechanisms present.

Antibiotic proves ineffective in treating wheezing in young children in the emergency room

A study led by University of Arizona researchers found that azithromycin did not improve symptoms in preschool children with severe wheezing. The trial results challenge the idea that certain types of bacteria contribute to wheezing and asthma, suggesting that viral infections play a more significant role.

Penn researchers create AI tool to speed antibiotic discovery

A precision nanoparticle strategy to combat multidrug-resistant pneumonia

Researchers develop hemoglobin-based nanoparticles to deliver tigecycline directly to Klebsiella pneumoniae infection sites, improving survival rates and reducing bacterial burden. The novel strategy overcomes dose-limiting toxicity and enhances pharmacokinetics of the antibiotic.

Tiny bacterial “nanoweapons” offer new hope against drug-resistant infections

Researchers engineer bacterial vesicles into multifunctional tools that can kill pathogens, boost vaccines, and deliver targeted therapies. Engineered BEVs address key limitations of existing therapies, including improving vaccine responses and antibiotic delivery.

Singapore researchers advance phage therapy in fight against antimicrobial resistance

Researchers identified how Mycobacterium abscessus evades treatment and proposed a strategy to overcome resistance, offering a pathway towards more effective treatments. A combination therapy targeting both smooth and rough variants proved more effective than single-phage treatment.

Researchers identify natural compound that disarms drug-resistant bacteria

A naturally occurring fatty acid called geranylgeranoic acid (GGA) has been discovered to disrupt the ability of MRSA bacteria to stick to human molecules and detect their environment, making it harder for them to cause disease. Researchers tested GGA in mice and found it prevented skin lesions and reduced infection severity.

Comparing veterinary antimicrobial stewardship: Why Brazil needs stronger monitoring systems

The study reveals critical gaps in Brazil's veterinary antimicrobial stewardship, compared to the UK and Netherlands' comprehensive monitoring systems. Brazil's fragmented approach makes it difficult to detect trends and respond to emerging resistance threats.

Risk of celiac disease is not a reason to avoid antibiotics

A nationwide Swedish study of 27,789 individuals with confirmed celiac disease found no link between antibiotic use and increased risk of developing the autoimmune disorder. The study also revealed a higher proportion of prior antibiotics used among those with normal mucosa, suggesting other factors may contribute to its development.

New study finds high rates of outpatient antibiotic exposure in children with medical complexity

A new study found that children with three or more complex chronic conditions had the highest annual prescription rates and frequent use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. This highlights the need for targeted antibiotic stewardship efforts in this vulnerable population.

IBS treatment response predicted by gut microbiome in new study

Researchers found distinct gut microbiome characteristics that predicted treatment response to the low FODMAP diet and rifaximin. Patients who responded to these treatments had different microbial signatures, with increases in diversity for those on the low FODMAP diet and resilience against antibiotics for those on rifaximin.

Foxes and birds could be ‘early warning system’ to survey spread of antibiotic resistance into ecosystems

Researchers discovered highly antibiotic-resistant bacteria in wildlife samples, including foxes and birds, indicating potential early warning system for AMR spread. The study highlights the need for environmental interventions to prevent resistance from reaching clinical settings.

Shorter antibiotic courses show similar outcomes to longer use for some pneumonia patients

For eligible patients with community-acquired pneumonia, shorter treatment durations may be as safe and effective as traditional longer regimens. The study found no meaningful differences in mortality, readmissions, or C. difficile infections among patients who received three to four days of antibiotics.

Researchers find a new "molecular handle" to build complex medicines

A team of chemists has found a simple way to attach the highly sought-after dichloromethyl group onto complex compounds using proline. This method enables the precise assembly of molecules with unparalleled purity and selectivity, simplifying the synthesis of complex drug compounds.

Influence of antibiotic use on mental health during pregnancy

A study published in BMC Public Health found an association between antibiotic use and maternal mental health during pregnancy. Researchers analyzed data from over 94,000 pregnant women and discovered a stepwise pattern of psychological distress linked to increasing antibiotic exposure. The findings suggest that avoiding unnecessary an...

New biochar-based technology boosts antibiotic removal from water using low-energy ultrasound

Researchers developed a novel composite material that combines biochar, carbon nanotubes, and iron carbide, significantly accelerating the breakdown of antibiotics in water. The system achieved up to 15 times higher removal rates compared to conventional materials, while requiring substantially less energy.

Neanderthals may have used birch tar for wound care

A new study suggests that Neanderthals used birch tar not only as an adhesive but also to treat wounds, showing effective antimicrobial properties against S. aureus bacteria. The research findings are relevant in light of the global rise in bacterial resistance to antibiotics.

New test dissolves threat of fake drugs

Researchers have developed a low-cost fake drug detector that uses an infrared sensor to track pill dissolution rates. The device can identify legitimate medications from counterfeit ones with high accuracy, making it a valuable tool in the fight against global health threats.

Inappropriate antibiotic use for COVID-19 is linked to resistance

Using azithromycin within one day triggers antibiotic resistance in the respiratory tract, according to a study published in Nature Microbiology. The researchers followed hospitalized COVID-19 patients and found that azithromycin changed the mix of microbes in the upper airway, leading to persistent changes for more than a week.

Antibiotics can affect the gut microbiome for several years

A new study found that antibiotics can alter the gut microbiome for up to four to eight years after treatment, with certain types of antibiotics having a stronger impact. The study analyzed data from 14,979 adults and found links between antibiotic use and changes in gut microbiome composition, including diversity of bacterial species.

Multi-scale plant defense strategies against antibiotic stress revealed

Researchers have discovered plant defense strategies against antibiotic stress, including chloroplast-centered adaptation and microbiome coordination. Plants accumulate antibiotics in roots, activate detoxification enzymes, and restructure endophytic bacterial communities to counter stress. These findings suggest plants as bioremediati...

Antibiotic resistance can vary depending on where the bacteria live

Research shows that bacteria harbor resistance genes may respond differently to antibiotics under non-standard conditions. This affects treatment efficacy and contributes to understanding antimicrobial resistance development and spread. Understanding these variations is crucial to combat global public health threats.

Ultrasound-activated ‘nanoagents’ kill superbugs hiding in biofilms

Researchers design nanoagents to carry antibiotics deep into bacterial infections, releasing them upon gentle ultrasound activation. This approach reduces antibiotic resistance and improves treatment of biofilm-related infections.

Fe₃O₄@mPEG-Ag nanoparticles: a new frontier in combating antibiotic resistance

Researchers introduce Fe₃O₄@mPEG-Ag nanoparticles as a non-antibiotic strategy to combat drug-resistant bacteria. The novel nanomaterial demonstrates strong antibacterial activity against clinically relevant multidrug-resistant strains.

Digital clinical decision support algorithm substantially reduced antibiotic prescribing without compromising clinical recovery, according to non-randomized controlled trial in 32 Rwandan health centers

A digital clinical decision support algorithm substantially reduced antibiotic prescribing in pediatric outpatient care in Rwanda, according to a non-randomized controlled trial. The study found no compromise in clinical recovery, suggesting the algorithm's effectiveness in guiding appropriate treatment.

Emerging class of antibiotics to tackle global tuberculosis crisis

A team of scientists at the University of Sydney has discovered how three naturally occurring antibiotic compounds disrupt the ClpC1–ClpP1P2 complex, a vital protein degradation machine in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This finding uncovers surprising complexity and provides valuable insight into designing more effective anti-TB treatments.

Study reveals how antibiotic structure controls removal from water using biochar

A new study reveals that biochar's ability to remove antibiotics from water depends on their molecular structure. The research found that subtle structural differences among tetracycline antibiotics influence their adsorption onto rice straw biochar, with some antibiotics binding more quickly than others.

Novel vaccine protects against C. diff disease and recurrence

A novel vaccination approach cleared harmful gut bacterium Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) in an animal model of infection. The experimental vaccine protected against illness, death, tissue damage and infection recurrence through mucosal immunization.

Bacteria frozen in ancient underground ice cave found to be resistant against 10 modern antibiotics

Researchers discovered a 5,000-year-old bacterial strain in an underground ice cave that shows resistance to multiple modern antibiotics. The Psychrobacter SC65A.3 strain has over 100 resistance-related genes and can inhibit the growth of several major antibiotic-resistant superbugs.

Shorter treatment regimens are safe options for preventing active tuberculosis

A one- and three-month antibiotic treatment regimens both had few adverse reactions and high rates of completion in preventing active tuberculosis, says a new study published in PLOS Medicine. The regimens were deemed successful and neither proved superior to the other.

Risk factors for the development of food allergy in infants and children

A meta-analysis of childhood food allergy risk factors reveals a combination of major and minor factors, including genetics and antibiotic exposure. The study provides insights into the complex interplay of these factors in the development of food allergies in infants and children.

Technology transfer for Corallopyronin A successfully completed with Phyton Biotech

Phyton Biotech has successfully transferred the manufacturing process for Corallopyronin A (CorA), a novel anti-infective agent with potent activity against filarial infections and bacterial infections. The technology transfer marks an important milestone in the Company's specialty GMP fermentation capabilities.

New guide aims to tame the chaos of UTI care

The Ann Arbor Guide provides two algorithms for triaging adults with suspected UTIs, one for non-pregnant women and the other for men. It also emphasizes the importance of accurate testing and treatment to prevent overuse of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance.

Antibiotic therapy for uncomplicated acute appendicitis

Researchers support using antibiotics for uncomplicated acute appendicitis due to low recurrence rates at 10-year follow-up. The treatment option is recommended for adult patients, reducing the need for future surgery.

Why don’t antibiotic-making bacteria self-destruct?

Researchers discovered that Paenibacillus produces lariocidin, a powerful antibiotic, but the bacteria avoid its effects due to an enzyme called lrcE. This enzyme modifies lariocidin, preventing it from binding to the bacterial ribosomal RNA and protecting the producer.

A protein found in the GI tract can neutralize many bacteria

Researchers discovered that protein intelectin-2 has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria in the GI tract. It strengthens the mucus barrier and can directly neutralize or restrain bacteria, making it a potential therapeutic agent.

New test shows which antibiotics actually work

Researchers developed a new method to measure how effectively antibiotics kill bacteria, crucial for treating complex infections. The 'antimicrobial single-cell testing' method predicts treatment success by observing individual bacteria under different conditions.

Traditional herb offers new hope for antibiotic-free pig farming

The study highlights the multifunctional natural substitute for antibiotics in swine production, demonstrating broad antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-regulating effects. Dietary supplementation improves intestinal barrier integrity, increases growth metrics, and reduces fecal E. coli.

New clinical standards strengthen antimicrobial stewardship in tuberculosis care

The new clinical standards for antimicrobial stewardship in tuberculosis care aim to integrate TB into existing AMS frameworks, strengthening surveillance and resistance monitoring. The standards prioritize effectiveness, safety, and resistance prevention, promoting structured expert consultation services and targeted testing.

Microbes that break down antibiotics help protect ecosystems under drug pollution

Certain microbes can act as community protectors by breaking down antibiotics and stabilizing entire microbial ecosystems. Antibiotic degraders create safer microenvironments, allowing sensitive microbes to survive.

4 million for study with personalized phage therapy

The study will select the exact phage that is appropriate for each patient's bacteria, and aims to reduce antibiotic use and healthcare costs. Bacteriophages have been shown to be effective against resistant bacteria causing urinary tract infections.

The antibiotic delafloxacin emerges as a potential therapeutic alternative against Legionella

A study published in the International Journal of Infectious Diseases found that delafloxacin inhibits Legionella replication more effectively than levofloxacin. The antibiotic demonstrates promising intracellular activity, which could support further clinical investigation as a potential treatment for Legionnaires' disease.

Tropical disease oroya fever: Elucidation of disease mechanism opens possibility for novel therapy

A team of researchers has identified two proteins critical to the destruction of red blood cells by the Oroya fever pathogen. This discovery paves the way for a potential novel therapy against this deadly neglected tropical disease.

The Lancet: New single dose oral treatment for gonorrhoea effectively combats drug-resistant infections, trial finds

A new single-dose oral medication called zoliflodacin shows promise as a treatment for antibiotic-resistant gonorrhoea, with over 90% of infections cured at genital sites. The medication is well-tolerated and has the potential to improve global efforts to control drug-resistant gonorrhea infections.

Comeback of the biphenomycins

Researchers at HIPS have fully elucidated the biosynthetic pathway of biphenomycins, a potent antibiotic family against Gram-positive pathogens. They can now produce sufficient quantities and create new variants with improved pharmaceutical properties to combat drug-resistant S. aureus infections.

Seaweed based carbon catalyst offers metal free solution for removing antibiotics from water

A new seaweed-based carbon catalyst has been developed that can rapidly break down antibiotic norfloxacin in water without using toxic metals or sulfur chemicals. The catalyst, made from kappa carrageenan and doped with nitrogen and sulfur, shows high specific surface area and degrades antibiotics through non-radical pathways.

In pneumonia’s tug-of-war, lung microbiome could tip the balance

A study found that lung microbiomes play a significant role in pneumonia, with patients having oral-like pneumotypes more likely to recover. The researchers identified four distinct microbial patterns, or 'pneumotypes,' associated with different types of pneumonia.

Tuberculosis: Scientists develop novel drug candidate for combating resistant pathogens

Researchers at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg have developed a promising new substance that inhibits the ability of tuberculosis bacteria to produce energy and causes them to die. The compound, PRP020, targets the pathogen's ATP synthase but attacks a different site than existing drugs like bedaquiline.

Plant phenolic acids supercharge old antibiotics against multidrug resistant E. coli

Researchers found that plant phenolic acids can dramatically boost the activity of existing antibiotics against multidrug resistant E. coli, reducing the chance of new resistance emerging. The compounds also make it easier for antibiotics to enter and stay inside bacterial cells.