Research on antibiotics and the bacteria they target. Covers antibiotic resistance, gut pathogens, persistent strep throat, and water-source contamination.
A review of type 2 diabetes treatment found older agents have similar or superior effects on glycemic control and intermediate endpoints compared to newer, pricier medications. Gonorrhea is becoming resistant to fluoroquinolone antibiotics, leading to recommendations for alternative treatments.
Food crops like corn, lettuce, and potato take up antibiotics from soils treated with manure containing the antibiotic Sulfamethazine. This raises concerns about the potential for contamination of the human food supply, particularly among vulnerable populations like young children who may experience allergic reactions.
A study published in JAMA Network found that antibiotic treatment after a first urinary tract infection (UTI) in children may not reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs, but increases the risk of resistant infections. The study identified risk factors for recurrent UTI and estimated the effectiveness of antimicrobials in preventing recurrence.
Researchers have successfully sequenced the genome of Salinispora tropica, a bacterium discovered in Bahamian mud with potential to produce compounds showing promise in treating diseases such as cancer. The decoded genome reveals an impressive 10% of genes dedicated to producing molecules for antibiotics and anticancer agents.
The American Academy of Neurology has published a new guideline for treating Lyme disease affecting the nervous system, finding conventional antibiotic courses highly effective. Prolonged antibiotic treatment does not improve outcomes for patients with persistent symptoms after standard therapy.
Scientists at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona developed a new electro-chemical biosensor that detects pesticides and antibiotics in food with high sensitivity and portability. The sensor can detect levels of atrazine and sulphanilamides below maximum allowed concentrations, making it easier to control food safety.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered how antibiotic linezolid inhibits bacterial growth. By binding to ribosomes, linezolid kills bacteria and disrupts protein synthesis. The study provides new insights into the mechanism of action and potential improvements for the drug.
A randomized, double-blind controlled trial is being conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of topical honey in healing diabetic ulcers. The study aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to antibiotics, which are often ineffective against drug-resistant bacteria.
A UC Irvine study found that certain antibiotics reduce bacteria in ticks, leading to retarded growth and reduced reproduction. The discovery could lead to safer and more effective ways to control ticks and the diseases they transmit.
Thomas Steitz received the 2007 Gairdner International Award for his work on the structure and function of the large subunit of the ribosome, which has led to a better understanding of human disease and the development of new antibiotics. His research has also highlighted the importance of basic discoveries in medical science.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have devised a method to tackle antibiotic resistance, identifying four promising new compounds with preliminary antibacterial activity. The compounds show promise against MRSA and other Gram-positive bacteria, but further research is needed to understand their mechanism of action.
A research team from the University of Illinois and the University of Wisconsin aims to discover, engineer and produce promising phosphonate-based antibiotics. The project seeks alternatives to standard antibiotics due to growing concerns about antimicrobial resistance.
Researchers have discovered a weakness in the armour that protects B. cenocepacia from antibiotics, identifying a key sugar required for its protection. This finding may lead to novel molecules to disrupt its synthesis and develop new treatments.
Most dental patients with heart disease no longer need antibiotics before dental procedures to prevent infective endocarditis. New guidelines recommend antibiotics only for patients at greatest risk, including those with artificial heart valves or congenital heart conditions.
A new study suggests that antibiotic therapy for diabetic foot infections can be predicted using specific laboratory and clinical tests. The study found that deep wounds or high white blood cell counts significantly increased the risk of bad outcomes.
Researchers discovered that prolonged exposure to antibiotics triggers a genetic response in E. coli, resulting in increased efflux pump activity and altered outer membrane porin protein levels. This study highlights the critical role of genetic adaptation in antibiotic resistance.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that forskolin flushes out hiding colonies of bacteria in the bladder, making them susceptible to antibiotic treatment. The study shows great promise for a new approach to treating recurring urinary tract infections.
Researchers have found the same plasmids responsible for antibiotic resistance in common bacteria also present in the plague bacillus Yersinia pestis, raising concerns about its potential spread. This discovery highlights a significant public health risk as MDR Y. pestis could rapidly evolve and affect human health.
TB patients must take long-term therapy due to a correlation between bacterial burden and time to cure. Researchers suggest that non-replicating bacteria are not TB-specific and that understanding this phenomenon can lead to shorter treatment durations for recalcitrant bacterial infections.
A recent study found that antibiotics are prescribed for approximately 82% of acute and chronic sinus infections, despite viruses being the most frequent cause. This overprescription has significant concerns, including drug resistance and virulent bacteria, as well as increased healthcare costs.
Researchers at the University of Washington discovered that Gallium inhibits the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and prevents biofilm formation, offering a potential therapeutic solution for cystic fibrosis patients. Inhalation of Gallium also protected mice from P. aeruginosa lung infections.
A computer-based decision tool has been developed to predict a patient's treatment preferences when they are incapacitated. This tool, called a 'population-based treatment indicator,' analyzes the treatment preferences of similar individuals and estimates the likelihood that the patient would want certain treatments.
Scientists have detailed images of a bacterial cell wall target that could aid in designing new antibiotics to treat deadly infections. The images, published in the journal Science, show an antibiotic called moenomycin binding to the enzyme, providing a new understanding of its structure and function.
A University of Georgia study reveals high levels of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in chickens raised on antibiotic-free farms and lab conditions. The resistances don't come from antibiotic use, suggesting that banning farm use won't help, but may require new management practices to reduce the risk of human illness.
Researchers found that photodynamic therapy (PDT) was an effective method to minimize destruction of periodontal tissue and provided improved dentin hypersensitivity. PDT may be a preferable alternative to antibiotic therapy, which is becoming increasingly important due to rising antibiotic resistance.
A University of Missouri-Columbia researcher is assisting the US Army in fighting multi-drug resistant infections among wounded troops, often caused by improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The study aims to identify effective antibiotics and treatment durations to reduce infection rates and amputations.
Scientists have discovered that people working with chimpanzees in a Ugandan park are exchanging gastrointestinal bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant E. coli strains, with the animals. This finding highlights the potential for human activities to impact wildlife health.
A dietary supplement called poly-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) has been found to protect brine shrimp from infection by antibiotic-resistant Vibrio campbellii bacteria. PHB is a naturally-occurring compound that can be produced on an industrial scale, offering a potential alternative to antibiotics in the fish farming industry.
A randomized double-blind trial found that macrolide antibiotics increased resistance in oral streptococcal flora, with azithromycin showing a higher effect. The study highlights the ecological side-effects of antibiotics and suggests a causal link between antibiotic use and resistance.
Researchers used bioassay-guided evolution to identify more efficient antibiotic-producing mutants in Escherichia coli, reconstituting the biosynthetic pathways of sugars to yield a new antibiotic. This approach opens doors for harnessing genetics to investigate polyketide synthases and biosynthetic engineering.
A new study found that rapid flu tests can significantly reduce the use of antibiotics in hospitals, which is crucial in combating antibiotic resistance. The study showed that patients whose flu was confirmed early on were treated with antibiotics less often than those whose flu wasn't identified immediately.
A study found that rapid influenza testing led to decreased antibiotic use among hospitalized adults, with a 14% reduction in antibiotic discontinuation compared to those without positive test results. The findings suggest that prompt diagnosis and targeted therapy can help minimize unnecessary antibiotic use.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute have designed a more powerful weapon to fight bacteria by combining key properties of antimicrobial peptides and lipopeptides. The new synthetic peptides exhibit both positive charge and soap-like ability to dissolve oils, targeting a range of bacterial and fungal infections.
The study reveals that Salmonella enterica serovar typhi is the most common cause of bacteraemia in children and adults, with almost half of all cases found in children. Local knowledge is crucial for developing effective public health interventions, particularly in a resource-constrained healthcare system.
A study of 80 children found that antibiotic ear drops resolved ear drainage three to five days faster and resulted in more clinical cures overall, compared to oral administration. The topical drops also had fewer gastrointestinal problems and led to less antibiotic resistance.
The 2004 influenza vaccine shortage had a significant impact on continuity of care, with flu vaccination rates dropping by over 50% in some areas. Additionally, studies found that improper antibiotic use can exacerbate sinusitis symptoms and that patients with sore throats often seek pain relief rather than antibiotics.
The study reveals that asymptomatic carriers played a crucial role in the evolution and global transmission of Typhi, leading to antibiotic resistance and hindering treatment efforts. The research also highlights the importance of healthy carriers in facilitating the spread of the bacteria.
A team of researchers at the University of Illinois has successfully synthesized an antibiotic called fosfomycin in a non-native host, paving the way for new treatments against bacterial infections. The development is significant as it addresses the rising threat of antibiotic resistance.
A study published in Archives of Surgery found that a single dose of antibiotics prior to surgery is as effective as a 24-hour dosing regimen in preventing surgical site infections. The new protocol resulted in significant cost savings, with a 63% decline in antibiotic costs and a monthly saving of $1,980.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University conclude that antibiotics are not effective in treating short-term bronchitis, which is usually caused by viral infections. The study suggests that physicians should inform patients that there is no data to support the use of antibiotics for this condition, saving them from potential side...
Scientists have discovered that the Chlamydia bacterium shares a common ancestry with plants, which could lead to the development of an effective new treatment for chlamydia. The discovery highlights similarities in genetic sequences and functions between the two organisms, providing a potential target for antibiotics.
A study found that 92% of ear infection cases were caused by bacteria, while 70% were caused by viruses. Viruses can impair antibiotic efficacy, leading to partial effectiveness in treating AOM.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new method to create polymer rings that can encapsulate and release specific molecules at specific times. The technique has the potential to be used in medicine, particularly in drug delivery and antibiotic development.
Researchers are using bacteria to manufacture a library of potential anti-cancer drugs, including analogues of streptorubin B, which could be more powerful than current synthetic options. The approach combines biology and organic synthesis to create complex structures.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered a new two-component lantibiotic called haloduracin, which has shown promising therapeutic potential in treating nasty infections. The discovery could provide new sources of antibiotics to combat drug-resistant bacterial strains.
For most children with middle ear infection, an observation policy is justified due to limited benefits from antibiotics. The study found that only some children under the age of two benefit from antibiotic treatment, while others may require more treatments to prevent extended disease cases.
A new study suggests that rifaximin may improve IBS symptoms by over 50% compared to placebo. However, the researchers caution that antibiotics can have side effects and more research is needed to fully understand its benefits.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that a nonabsorbable antibiotic can effectively treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) even after treatment ends. The study showed sustained benefits for participants who received rifaximin, providing new hope for those suffering from IBS.
A new study found that patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) reported greater global improvements in symptoms and less bloating after taking rifaximin, an antibiotic. The randomized, double-blind study demonstrated a sustained benefit of an antibiotic for IBS symptoms even after treatment was stopped.
Researchers have successfully synthesized platensimycin, a new antibiotic that inhibits bacterial fatty acid biosynthesis and paralyzes Gram-positive bacterial strains. This breakthrough offers hope against multiresistant bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecium.
A study by Indiana University researchers found that hospitals implementing specific measures to control antibiotic use were more likely to succeed in controlling antibiotic resistance. Measures such as limiting broad-spectrum drug availability and restricting formularies were associated with lower rates of antibiotic resistance.
The Infectious Diseases Society of America has updated its Clinical Practice Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease. The new guidelines include recommendations for a single dose of antibiotic for high-risk patients and expanded discussion on chronic post-Lyme syndromes.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have identified an antibiotic that specifically targets the FoxM1 gene, which is responsible for cancer cell proliferation. The antibiotic, siomycin A, was found to induce cancer cells to commit suicide in a process called apoptosis, with no effect on normal cells.
A study in Vietnam found that targeted oral azithromycin treatment increased re-infection rates of trachoma and Chlamydia trachomatis infection. The SAFE strategy, which includes antibiotics, has been criticized for its potential ineffectiveness in long-term control.
A recent study found a possible link between the use of proton pump inhibitors and an increased risk of community-acquired Clostridium difficile-associated disease. The research, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, suggests that patients who have been prescribed these medications may be more likely to develop CDAD.
A new study found that giving parents a 'wait-and-see' approach for treating ear infections significantly reduced the use of antibiotics, with little difference in outcomes for the children. The approach also interrupted the cycle of antibiotic prescription, reducing adverse effects and costs.
Researchers have discovered a new approach to develop antibiotics, which is more efficient and environmentally friendly. This breakthrough could help create powerful new drugs to combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.
A team of Wisconsin scientists has found a simple process to expand on nature's chemical creativity, making critical anticancer agents and antibiotics. The discovery opens the door to a variety of new opportunities in the natural product drug arena.
Researchers developed an inhibitor that blocks anthrax toxin receptors, increasing potency by 50,000-fold. The new approach could combat antibiotic-resistant strains and improve survival rates for inhalational anthrax victims.
Scientists at the University of York have discovered a critical element in the mode of action of DNase colicins, which kill cells by destroying their DNA. Understanding this mechanism could lead to the development of new, targeted antibiotics.