Study shows antibiotic resistance genes persist in E. coli through "genetic capitalism"
A new study finds that excessive human interference is causing bacteria to become
Antibiotic Resistance
Articles tagged with Antibiotic Resistance
Entry point for curbing the evolution of antibiotic resistance discovered
Researchers found an entry point for suppressing spontaneous antibiotic resistance development in E. coli by targeting membrane transport and chaperones. The study provides new molecular targets to improve antibiotics' effectiveness.
New study reveals use of antibiotics on crops is more widespread than previously thought
A new study reveals that antibiotics are being recommended far more frequently and on a greater variety of crops than previously thought. The research found that over 100 crops use antibiotics, including some critically important for human medicine, with significant regional variations.
High antibiotic prescription rates in low- and middle-income countries may indicate misuse
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that approximately 50% of patients at primary care clinics in LMICs received at least one antibiotic, suggesting widespread overprescribing. The study also found that 60% of antibiotics were commonly used drugs with a low potential for selecting resistance.
Potential high-risk clones identified among S. maltophilia strains in European hospitals
Researchers discovered a clonal group of S. maltophilia strains with increased biofilm formation and colistin resistance, featuring new virulence factors. The study highlights the role of quorum sensing in pathogenicity and persistence.
Fewer antibiotics to better fight bacterial infections
A multicentre study involving over 500 patients found that a shorter treatment duration, reduced to half the standard 14-day course, was equally effective in treating bacteraemia. The researchers also identified certain risk factors, including older age and pathogen type, which can influence the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment.
Genomic surveillance of antibiotic resistance in the Philippines established
The study mapped bacterial resistance to last-line antibiotics in the Philippines, enabling better tracking of resistant bacteria and controlling outbreaks. The genomic capacity has enhanced national infection control efforts and improved understanding of antimicrobial resistance at local, national, and international scales.
Princeton team develops 'poisoned arrow' to defeat antibiotic-resistant bacteria
A Princeton team has discovered a compound, SCH-79797, that can target both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria without inducing resistance. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new, effective antibiotics against antibiotic-resistant superbugs like MRSA and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Insight into mechanism of treatment-resistant gonorrhea sets stage for new antibiotics
Researchers discovered a new resistance mechanism that inhibits protein dynamics in Neisseria gonorrhoeae, making existing treatments ineffective. The findings suggest that designing new antimicrobials targeting this mechanism could lead to effective treatments.
Study finds some reductions in community antibiotic resistant infections and dispensing
A University of Bristol study found reductions in antibiotic dispensing in primary care from 2013 to 2016, leading to decreases in resistance to certain antibiotics. The researchers saw quick and persistent reductions in ciprofloxacin, trimethoprim, and amoxicillin resistance, but no association with nitrofurantoin resistance.
Genetic tradeoffs do not stop evolution of antibiotic resistance
Despite challenging genetic tradeoffs, bacteria can still evolve antibiotic resistance when exposed to varying antibiotic concentrations. Researchers developed a model that showed bacteria may reverse course and regain susceptibility to antibiotics at lower drug concentrations.
Better antibiotic dosing could save lives in ICU
The University of Queensland's new Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) guidelines aim to personalise antibiotic treatment for critically ill patients in ICU. By using advanced software to predict accurate drug dosages, the guidelines have shown promise in reducing adverse outcomes and improving patient response.
Hygiene reduces the need for antibiotics by up to 30%
A new study reveals that everyday hygiene practices, such as hand-washing, can reduce the risk of common infections by up to 50% and the need for antibiotics by up to 30%. This could help prevent hundreds of thousands of deaths from antimicrobial resistance (AMR) globally each year.
Public would obey major changes to antibiotic advice, research shows
Research shows people would follow new guidelines on taking antibiotics, but those who believe they know more than scientists may resist changes. The study suggests reforms should be made sparingly to avoid undermining future compliance
SMART researchers uncover new anti-phage defence mechanisms in bacteria
Researchers from SMART have discovered a new defence mechanism found in some bacteria that uses phosphorothioates to protect their DNA. This discovery enables scientists to tackle existing challenges in bacterial resistance to antibiotics and has huge implications for phage therapy.
SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMay 6, 2020
Fecal transplantation improves outcomes in patients with multi-drug resistant organisms
Researchers found fecal microbial transplantation reduced bloodstream infections and improved patient quality of life in chronically ill patients. FMT decolonized multi-drug resistant bacteria, allowing patients to undergo stem-cell transplants and return to work.
New insight into bacterial structure to help fight against superbugs
Scientists have produced the first high-resolution images of the cell wall of Staphylococcus aureus, a deadly bacterium with antibiotic-resistant form MRSA. The findings overturn previous theories about bacterial structure and provide insight into how antibiotics work.
Antibiotic exposure can 'prime' single-resistant bacteria to become multidrug-resistant
Researchers at the University of Washington and Idaho discovered that prolonged antibiotic exposure can 'prime' single-resistant bacteria to become multidrug-resistant. This effect makes it more likely for bacteria to acquire resistance to multiple antibiotics, even in an antibiotic-free environment.
Study describes cocktail of pharmaceuticals in waters in Bangladesh
Researchers found a cocktail of pharmaceuticals and chemicals in water samples from urban and rural areas in Bangladesh. The study highlights the potential for antimicrobial resistance to spread through human exposure to these pollutants.
Aquaculture at the crossroads of global warming and antimicrobial resistance
Researchers found that global warming promotes the development of pathogenic bacteria in aquaculture, leading to increased disease rates and antibiotic use. The study highlights the urgent need for alternative treatments and encourages research using One Health or EcoHealth approaches to address antimicrobial resistance.
Study reveals raw-type dog foods as a major source of multidrug-resistant bacteria that could potentially colonize humans
New research reveals that raw-type dog foods contain high levels of multidrug-resistant bacteria, including those resistant to last-line antibiotics. The potential transfer of such bacteria between dogs and humans is an international public health risk.
Study identifies last-line antibiotic resistance in humans and pet dog
A study found the dangerous mcr-1 gene in two healthy humans and a pet dog in Portugal, providing resistance to colistin, an antibiotic of last resort. The presence of this gene in humans and animals raises concerns about potential transmission and the emergence of untreatable infections.
Cancer drug resistance study raises immune red flags
A new study found that inhibiting the cancer drug resistance gene MDR1 can have unintended side effects on specialized immune system cells called CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes. This could dull anti-cancer immune responses and increase vulnerability to infection. The research raises questions about the safety and utility of using systemi...
Lifestyle trumps geography in determining makeup of gut microbiome
A new study from WashU Medicine found that captive apes' gut microbiomes are more similar to those of people who eat non-Western diets than their wild counterparts. The research also identified novel antibiotic resistance genes in wild apes and humans, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect endangered species.
Completely new antibiotic resistance gene has spread unnoticed to several pathogens
A new antibiotic resistance gene, gar, has been discovered in environmental samples from India and found in several clinical pathogens, including Salmonella and Pseudomonas. This rare gene provides resistance to aminoglycoside antibiotics, which is concerning for treating multi-resistant bacteria.
Burying or burning garbage boosts airborne bacteria, antibiotic resistance genes
Researchers found that incineration and landfilling of municipal solid waste releases bacteria and antibiotic-resistance genes into the air, posing a risk to human health. The study suggests that these systems could be a reservoir of resistant genes, which can spread to nearby residents through airborne transmission.
Graphite nanoplatelets on medical devices kill bacteria and prevent infections
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology developed antibacterial surfaces using graphite nanoplatelets, reducing bacterial infections by 99.99% and preventing antibiotic resistance. The surfaces are designed to kill bacteria without damaging healthy human cells.
Developing a novel oral antibiotic to treat multidrug-resistant gonorrhea
A research team, including Penn State and Microbiotix, aims to develop a novel oral antibiotic targeting the trans-translation pathway of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The project has received $2.86M in funding from CARB-X to optimize and develop a new compound into an effective treatment for drug-resistant gonorrhea.
Semi-metal compound could treat foal pneumonia without promoting drug resistant bacteria
Researchers found that gallium maltolate (GaM) can treat subclinical foal pneumonia without increasing antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests GaM as a viable alternative to overprescribed antibiotics.
New nano strategy fights superbugs
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new strategy to destroy antibiotic-resistant genes, known as superbugs, in sewage system wastewater. The nano technology traps and degrades these genetic remnants before they can infect other bacteria.
IVI and DTU to strengthen external quality assurance in the face of rising AMR in Asia
The International Vaccine Institute (IVI) and Technical University of Denmark (DTU) are strengthening external quality assurance programs in Asia to address the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance. Quality-assured data is essential for developing tailored strategies to prevent the spread of drug-resistant infections.
Novel compound sparks new malaria treatment hope
A new class of antimalarial compounds has been developed by Australian and US researchers, targeting a previously unexplored parasite pathway. The compounds have shown effectiveness against different species of malaria parasites, including Plasmodium falciparum, at multiple stages of the parasite lifecycle.
Anti-evolution drug could stop antibiotic resistance
Researchers discovered 46 drugs that block bacterial competence, preventing the spread of antibiotic resistance in mice and human lung cells. These 'anti-evolution drugs' could be combined with antibiotics to extend their lifespan.
Outsmarting pathogens
Scientists develop a new model to predict bacterial resistance to antibiotics and explore approaches for universal flu vaccines. Researchers also create a platform to accelerate drug development and study the impact of antibiotics on gut bacteria.
Abnormal growth of bacterial cells could be linked to anti-microbial resistance
Researchers found that mutations in gene ydcI cause increased numbers of persisters, a type of bacteria resistant to antibiotics. Persisters have memory loss, leading to abnormal growth and making them difficult to treat.
Metals could be the link to new antibiotics
University of Queensland researchers have discovered 23 metal compounds with antibacterial and antifungal activity, selectively killing bacteria like MRSA but not human cells. The findings offer promise for outwitting bacterial resistance, as the new compounds may use different mechanisms than existing antibiotics.
Research team tackles superbug infections with novel therapy
Researchers develop effective treatment for antibiotic-resistant bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a major cause of hospital-acquired infections. The novel therapy, AB569, kills the bacteria by targeting multiple processes, offering hope against superbug infections.
SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 20, 2020
Artificial intelligence yields new antibiotic
MIT researchers used a deep-learning model to identify a new antibiotic compound that can kill many species of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including some strains resistant to all known antibiotics. The compound, called halicin, was found using an in silico screening method and showed effectiveness against various bacterial strains.
Double success for University drug resistance research
Researchers at Swansea University have published two international studies on antifungal drug resistance, which highlights the growing threat of this disease. The studies investigated different aspects of resistance and examined drug resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus, a fungus that causes life-threatening infections.
Who will lead the global surveillance of antimicrobial resistance via sewage?
A global surveillance system for antimicrobial resistance can be established through genomic analysis of sewage, providing valuable information about the types of bacteria present in specific areas. This approach has great potential as a tool for monitoring diseases and managing outbreaks globally.
Sequencing sewage for antimicrobial resistance surveillance
Sequencing sewage could provide a powerful tool for AMR surveillance, offering a diverse and anonymous sample of the population. The authors suggest that such a system could be established globally for under $1 million USD annually, providing valuable insights into AMR spread and other public health concerns.
Analyzing the differences in antibiotic resistance between the gut and mouth microbiome
A recent study analyzed the antimicrobial resistance genes in the mouth and gut microbiome, finding distinct resistome profiles with varying levels of diversity. The researchers' findings suggest that expanding human resistome studies to other body areas is crucial for understanding the spread of antibiotic resistance.
A host's genes likely influence the spread of antibiotic resistance
Researchers found that genetic makeup of mice can influence transfer of antibiotic-resistant plasmids, suggesting new ways to stop resistance. The study analyzed how plasmids spread in genetically different groups of mice, leading to discovery of potential host factors triggering or reducing plasmid transfer.
Color-changing bandages sense and treat bacterial infections
Researchers have developed color-changing bandages that can sense drug-resistant and drug-sensitive bacteria in wounds and treat them accordingly. The bandages change color to indicate the type of bacteria present, allowing for targeted treatment with antibiotics.
Antibiotic-resistance in Tanzania is an environmental problem
A four-year study found that antibiotic-resistant bacteria are prevalent in people, wildlife, and water sources in northeastern Tanzania. The researchers suggest that environmental transmission is the primary driver of resistance, making hygiene and sanitation a critical factor in combatting the issue.
One quarter of bacterial pathogens can spread antibiotic resistance directly to peers
Researchers found that at least 25% of antibiotic-resistant pathogens are capable of spreading their resistance genes directly to other bacteria. The study, which used a new high-throughput method, showed that antibiotics do not significantly affect the rate of gene transfer between bacteria.
Stressed-out dust is sharing antibiotic resistance genes
A Northwestern University study found that indoor dust bacteria can transfer antibiotic resistance genes, potentially making infections more difficult to treat. The researchers believe this could lead to the spread of resistant pathogens, highlighting the need for increased caution in managing indoor environments.
Sticky antibiotic provides glue for successful treatment
Researchers discovered how an antibiotic, vancomycin, forms a mucoadhesive complex with gut mucins, trapping it and prolonging its exposure to the infectious microbe. This finding could lead to delayed transit of the antibiotic, improving its effectiveness in treating debilitating gut infections like PE.
Probiotic drink could offer new way to combat antibiotic resistance
A new probiotic drink has shown promise in combating antibiotic resistant bacteria by targeting the genetic basis of resistance. The drink, engineered with a key genetic element, works by preventing plasmids from replicating and displacing resistance genes.
Researchers discover new strategy in the fight against antibiotic resistance
Researchers at KU Leuven developed a new antibacterial strategy that prevents bacterial cooperation, reducing the emergence of resistance. Non-resistant bacteria outnumber resistant ones, making it harder for them to spread.
Antibiotics often sold without prescription in retail pharmacies in China
A study found that antibiotics are widely available without a prescription in Chinese retail pharmacies, hindering the government's goal to make them prescription-only by 2020. The survey revealed that 83.6% of pharmacies sold antibiotics without a prescription, with no significant differences between urban and rural locations.
Israeli docs strike big blow to superbugs
A team of Israeli researchers has identified a short window of opportunity for treating antibiotic-resistant infections, where aggressive bacteria can be controlled with currently-available therapies. This breakthrough offers new hope for patients fighting life-threatening infections with weakened immune systems.
Antibiotic tolerance reduces the ability to prevent resistance under drug combination therapies
New study reveals antibiotic tolerance promotes the evolution of antimicrobial resistance even under combination drug treatments. The results suggest that designing antibiotic treatments must consider drug tolerance to prevent the emergence of resistance.
How bacterial evolution of antibiotic arsenals is providing new drug blueprints
Researchers have identified two distinct types of antibiotics produced by bacteria that target the same cell wall component, offering a promising approach to combatting antimicrobial resistance. The discovery provides chemical blueprints for pharmaceutical chemists to design new, effective drugs.
Overuse of herbicides costing UK economy £400 million per year
The UK is losing 0.82 million tonnes of wheat yield each year due to herbicide-resistant black-grass, with potential implications for national food security. Researchers estimate that the worst-case scenario could result in an annual cost of £1 billion and a wheat yield loss of 3.4 million tonnes per year.
New CRISPR-based system targets amplified antibiotic-resistant genes
A new CRISPR-based gene-drive system, Pro-AG, has been developed to target antibiotic-resistant bacteria with increased efficiency. The system uses a self-amplifying editing mechanism to insert tailored genetic payloads into target sites with high precision.
NIH renews funding for the Antibacterial Resistance Leadership Group
The NIH is providing renewed funding for the Antibacterial Resistance Leadership Group (ARLG) to conduct clinical research and develop novel strategies to combat antibiotic-resistant infections. The ARLG has established collaborations in 19 countries and conducted over 40 clinical studies involving over 20,000 volunteers.
SMART and NTU researchers design polymer that can kill drug-resistant bacteria
Researchers at SMART and NTU have designed a polymer that can kill bacteria resistant to commonly used antibiotics, including MRSA. The breakthrough could lead to the development of medicine to which bacteria are significantly less resistant, saving hundreds of thousands of lives.
SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 12, 2019
Current treatment for fungal meningitis is fueling drug resistance
A common first-line treatment for cryptococcal meningitis is being compromised by emerging drug resistance, according to a new University of Liverpool research. The study highlights the need for new drugs and treatment regimens to combat the lethal brain infection.
Oat pathogen defence discovery marks an important milestone
Researchers have uncovered the critical genetic components responsible for oat's natural defense against soil pathogens, including the notorious Take-all disease. The finding holds significant implications for breeding other crops with similar resistance mechanisms.