Antibiotic resistance in the environment linked to fecal pollution
A recent study published in Nature Communications reveals a strong correlation between
Antibiotic Resistance
Articles tagged with Antibiotic Resistance
New study of MRSA spread provides framework for community-based infection surveillance
A new study identified a unique strain of CA-MRSA driving antimicrobial resistance and spread, particularly in vulnerable populations. Genomic surveillance played a crucial role in tracking the outbreak and informing infection control strategies.
Bacteria found in ancient Irish soil halts growth of superbugs -- new hope for tackling antibiotic resistance
Researchers have discovered a previously unknown strain of bacteria in ancient Irish soil that effectively inhibits the growth of four top-six multi-resistant pathogens. The strain, Streptomyces sp. myrophorea, has shown promise against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, providing new hope for combating antibiotic resistance.
Predicting inhibitor for multidrug resistance associated protein-2 transporter
Researchers created a predictive model to identify inhibitors of the multi-drug resistance associated protein-2 efflux transporter, achieving prediction accuracy of up to 0.79. The support vector machine model built on selected features showed the best performance.
Widespread, occasional use of antibiotics in US linked with resistance
A large study found that widespread, low-intensity antibiotic use in the US is more closely linked to antibiotic resistance than high-intensity use by a small fraction of the population. The study analyzed data from over 60 million Americans and found that occasional use was associated with higher rates of resistance.
Antimicrobial resistance and vaccines
Qualitative analyses suggest vaccine-based strategies can outperform antibiotic-centered approaches in certain cases, limiting AMR spread and preserving the human microbiome. Vaccine development is crucial to address growing AMR concerns, as indicated by studies highlighting vaccines' potential economic benefits.
Stop sterilizing your dust
A Northwestern University study reveals that triclosan in dust can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant infections. The researchers found higher abundances of genetic markers indicating resistance in dust with higher concentrations of triclosan, suggesting a link between the chemical and antibiotic resistance.
Distinguishing resistance from resilience to prolong antibiotic potency
A study by Duke University researchers shows that pathogen responses to first-line antibiotics can be distinguished, allowing for more effective treatment strategies. The researchers developed a method to quantify resistance and resilience, enabling clinicians to prescribe targeted dosing regimens.
Global review finds consumption of children's antibiotics varies widely
A global review of antibiotic sales in 70 high- and middle-income countries found that consumption patterns vary widely, with low levels of 'Access' antibiotics like amoxicillin. The study also highlights the overuse of 'Watch' antibiotics, which should only be used for specific indications.
Study discovers over 6,000 antibiotic resistance genes in the bacteria that inhabit the human gut
A recent study has discovered over 6,000 antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria that inhabit the human gut, revealing a vast and previously unknown diversity of resistant genes. The researchers used a novel method to identify these genes by comparing their three-dimensional structures to proteins produced by gut bacteria.
Small RNA renders bacteria more resistant to antibiotics
Researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum have identified a small RNA molecule that significantly affects antibiotic resistance in soil bacteria. Without this molecule, the bacteria are more sensitive to penicillins and produce less of the enzyme degrading these antibiotics.
DNA Origami full of potent anticancer agents
A Chinese scientist designed a DNA origami nanoplatform that carries chemotherapeutic drugs and RNA interference to target and kill multidrug-resistant cancer cells. The platform demonstrates the effectiveness of RNA interference in reducing drug resistance in cancer treatment.
Dodging antibiotic resistance by curbing bacterial evolution
Researchers found DNA translocase Mfd accelerates mutations in bacteria, promoting antibiotic resistance. A new class of anti-evolution drugs targeting Mfd could complement existing antimicrobials and address the growing antimicrobial resistance crisis.
Drug resistant infections associated with higher in-hospital mortality rates in India
Researchers found that patients infected with multi-drug resistant and extensively drug resistant bacterial infections, especially Gram-negative infections, had significantly higher mortality rates. The study highlights the urgent need for increased surveillance, research, and antimicrobial stewardship efforts worldwide.
Resistant bacteria: Can raw vegetables and salad pose a health risk?
A study by the Julius Kühn Institute and BfR found antimicrobial-resistant bacteria with multiple transferable resistance genes on fresh produce, including mixed salads, arugula, and cilantro. Consumers can minimize risk by washing raw vegetables thoroughly and considering heat treatment for immunocompromised individuals.
ECDC calls for continued action to address antimicrobial resistance in healthcare settings
Healthcare-associated infections persist in the EU/EEA, with 8.9 million cases annually, due to overuse of antimicrobials and varying infection prevention practices. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) calls for continued action to address antimicrobial resistance in healthcare settings.
Scouting out bacterial defences to find new ways to counter-attack antibiotic resistance
A team of researchers from the University of Bristol has identified a key component of the antibiotic binding mechanism of VIM proteins, which protects bacteria from beta-lactam antibiotics. This discovery provides insights into how antibiotics can be designed to block the activity of these resistance mechanisms.
Chinese scientists develop novel instrument for rapid profiling of antimicrobial resistance
A new system, CAMR-R, can measure antimicrobial resistant phenotypes at single-cell resolution from clinical samples in three hours without cell propagation. The instrument uses D2O-feeding Raman Microspectroscopy to quantify AMR levels and has potential applications in diagnosing clinical pathogens.
Combination therapy promising against blindness-causing bacterial keratitis
A combination therapy of polymyxin B/trimethoprim has shown promising results against bacterial keratitis, a leading cause of blindness. The treatment eradicated infections in 70% of animal models and showed a low rate of spontaneous resistance.
Planetary boundaries for antibiotic and pesticide resistance identified
Researchers have published the first estimates of antibiotic and pesticide planetary boundaries, revealing that Gram-negative bacteria are already beyond these limits. The study emphasizes the urgent need for new approaches to manage resistance, including promoting susceptibility to pesticides and antibiotics.
Salmonella found to be resistant to different classes of antibiotics
Research reveals Salmonella species, causing foodborne diseases, are resistant to multiple antibiotic classes. The study identified 39 genes linked to this resistance, shedding light on the epidemiology of salmonellosis in Brazil.
Transmission of antibiotic resistant E. coli mapped in wild giraffe social networks
A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that antibiotic-resistant E. coli bacteria in wild giraffes most likely come from anthropogenic sources. The research suggests that young giraffes are more likely to harbor resistant bacteria, potentially due to competition between strains.
Researchers closer to gonorrhea vaccine after exhaustive analysis of proteins
Scientists identify nine new potential vaccine candidates and six new proteins that could be effective targets for new antimicrobials to combat drug-resistant gonorrhea. The study represents a key step toward developing new weapons against the ever-evolving pathogen.
Novel antibiotic shows promise in treatment of uncomplicated gonorrhea
A Phase 2 clinical trial found that zoliflodacin cured most cases of uncomplicated gonorrhea, with cure rates ranging from 98% to 100%, depending on the dose. The antibiotic also showed promise in treating rectal and throat infections, although performance varied between doses.
Water experts to study emerging threat of antibiotic resistance
Two Virginia Tech professors, Amy Pruden and Marc Edwards, are leading studies on antibiotic resistance in recycled water and plumbing. Their research aims to identify effective disinfectants and designs for preventing the spread of resistant bacteria in water systems, a growing concern that affects public health.
33,000 people die every year due to infections with antibiotic-resistant bacteria
The study estimates that antibiotic-resistant bacteria cause a substantial burden of disease in the EU/EEA, with 75% attributed to healthcare-associated infections. The annual number of deaths due to these infections is comparable to that of influenza, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS combined.
Supermarket produce harbors antibiotic-resistance genes
Researchers found that supermarket produce is a reservoir for transferable antibiotic resistance genes, which can evade traditional detection methods. The study highlights the importance of characterizing the resistome in produce and emphasizes the need for improved detection methods.
Antibiotic resistance increases relapse in urinary tract infections
Patients with drug-resistant urinary tract infections are more likely to experience worse clinical outcomes and relapses within a week. The study highlights the importance of close follow-up and proper antibiotic treatment to curb antibiotic resistance.
Mycoplasma genitalium's cell adhesion mechanism revealed
Researchers have discovered the mechanism by which Mycoplasma genitalium adheres to human cells, a crucial step in bacterial infection and disease development. The study reveals the three-dimensional structure of the P110 adhesin protein interacting with sialic acids on human cell surfaces.
The Lancet Infectious Diseases: New investigational antibiotic effective against drug-resistant bacteria in phase 2 trial
A new investigational antibiotic, cefiderocol, has been found effective against drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria in a phase 2 randomised trial. The study suggested that patients treated with cefiderocol had a higher and more sustained level of pathogen eradication compared to those treated with imipenem-cilastatin.
Machine learning identifies antibiotic resistance genes in tuberculosis-causing bacteria
Researchers developed a machine learning approach to identify and predict antibiotic resistance genes in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The approach identified 33 known and 24 new resistance genes, which could aid in personalized treatment for different strains of the bacteria.
Breakthrough test screens for all known bacterial infections
The BacCapSeq platform detects signs of antibiotic resistance and virulence in 4.2 million genetic probes, outperforming traditional methods in sensitivity and speed. It has the potential to reduce mortality, morbidity, and healthcare costs by providing accurate, early differential diagnosis of infectious diseases.
Breastfeeding protects infants from antibiotic-resistant bacteria
Infants who were breastfed for at least six months had a smaller number of resistant bacteria in their gut than babies who were breastfed for a shorter period. Antibiotic treatment of mothers during delivery increased the amount of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the infant gut.
Local adaption of tuberculosis, not human migration, spread TB resistance mutations
A recent study reveals that TB resistance mutations evolved independently in various regions multiple times, with little international dissemination. This finding has significant implications for tuberculosis management and treatment, suggesting localized efforts could be successful.
Outbreak of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis undetected by standard tests
A study in South Africa found that certain strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis are resistant to the two primary antibiotics prescribed for TB. The resistance is not detected by standard DNA tests, leading to unsuccessful treatments and increased mortality.
Irrigating vegetables with wastewater in African cities may spread disease
A new study reveals that urban farmers in African cities are unknowingly spreading disease by irrigating vegetables with wastewater rich in virulent human pathogens. The risk of spreading bacteria and antimicrobial resistance among humans and animals is high, posing a significant health threat to millions of people.
Understanding water's role in antibiotic resistance emergence and dissemination in Africa
A new study suggests that surface water dynamics are a crucial contributor to the global health concern of antibiotic resistance. The research team found that land use and season were statistically significant predictors of antibiotic resistant bacteria presence in surface water.
Louisiana amphibian shows unique resistance to global disease
The three-toed amphiuma, a common species in Louisiana, has shown resistance to the fungus causing amphibian populations to decline worldwide. Researchers discovered compounds that inhibited fungal growth, highlighting its unique properties and potential for protection against chytridiomycosis.
New study hints at potential antibiotic breakthrough
Researchers develop structure-disrupting peptides to target bacterial proteins' structural core, reducing likelihood of resistance development. The study finds promising results in inhibiting multidrug-resistant bacteria growth and treating gonococcal infections.
Antimicrobial resistance of uropathogenic Escherichia coli from elderly patients
A study of 768 E. coli isolates from elderly patients with urinary tract infections found a high prevalence of resistance to β-lactams and other antimicrobials. Independent risk factors for multi-resistant E. coli included diabetes, recurrent infections, hospitalization, and exposure to β-lactams.
FDA researchers report first evidence of ESBL producing E. coli in US retail meat
A new study found all ESBL-producing E. coli isolates from US retail meat were resistant to at least three antimicrobial classes, carrying various types of CTX-M type ESBL genes. The presence in food-producing animals and retail meat supplies may contribute to a greater incidence of infections.
Scientists make significant discovery in the fight against drug-resistant tuberculosis
Researchers at Newcastle University have identified a naturally occurring antibiotic called kanglemycin A that is effective against rifampicin-resistant Tuberculosis. The compound was found to bind to the same groove as rifampicin but with extended structures, allowing it to maintain its affinity and inhibit the bacteria.
Good governance, clean water, & sanitation necessary to curb global antibiotic resistance
A new study finds that countries with better infrastructure, lower corruption, and higher spending on public health have lower rates of antibiotic resistance. Improving sanitation, access to clean water, and good governance are crucial in reducing antimicrobial resistance.
Superbug discovery renews hope for antibiotic treatment
Research at the University of Edinburgh found that a previously thought-to-be ineffective antibiotic, fosfomycin, can actually kill Listeria bacteria in infected cells and mice. This breakthrough may provide new treatment options for life-threatening Listeria cases.
Drug-resistance of gonorrhea in the EU: persistent but stable
The European Union and European Economic Area experience stable rates of gonorrhea resistance to antibiotics, with azithromycin remaining a concern. The use of dual therapy regimens may contribute to increased susceptibility.
Certain antibiotic-resistant infections on the rise, new research shows
A California emergency department study found nearly 6% of urinary tract infections were caused by drug-resistant bacteria, with no identifiable risk factor for infection in many cases. The researchers urge wider use of urine culture tests and improved follow-up systems to address the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.
Progress toward plugging an antibiotic pump
Using computer modeling, researchers have teased out the details of how an antibiotic pump works, revealing its 'lock' and mechanism. This breakthrough aims to develop new drugs that can plug the pump, potentially restoring antibiotics' effectiveness.
Inching closer to a soft spot in isoniazid-resistant tuberculosis
A recent study published in Molecular & Cellular Proteomics has uncovered changes in TB strains that make them vulnerable to other antibiotics. The research also reveals a potential target for developing new drugs against isoniazid-resistant tuberculosis.
Research may help rescue antibiotics' effectiveness in the face of drug-resistant bacteria
Researchers have discovered synergy between colistin and other antibiotics, offering hope for treating multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections. Combination therapy may allow clinicians to use lower effective doses of antibiotics, reducing toxicities and slowing antibiotic resistance development.
Microbes in the Hong Kong subway system mix together by evening rush hour
Researchers found that microbes from diverse travelers mix throughout the day, forming a uniform microbiome by evening. The study suggests that urban planning can impact bacterial types encountered, guiding public health strategies and transit designs.
Evolution of efflux pumps could yield important insights in fighting antibiotic resistance
Researchers found that different types of efflux pump proteins, key to antibiotic resistance, may not have evolved from a common ancestor. Instead, they may have developed independently through convergent evolution, offering new insights into fighting drug-resistant superbugs.
Nebraska, Iowa State to lead new institute to fight antimicrobial resistance
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is partnering with Iowa State University to create an institute addressing antimicrobial resistance, an urgent global public health concern. The institute aims to accelerate discoveries and enhance stewardship of disease prevention tools.
The hidden hazards of antibiotic resistance genes in air
Research reveals airborne transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARGs) across the globe, with high levels detected in urban areas. ARGs resistant to multiple antibiotics, including vancomycin, were found in air samples from cities worldwide.
Report from the leech's gut: Even trace amounts of antibiotics boost resistant bacteria
A new study found that trace amounts of antibiotics in leeches' environment can increase resistant bacteria, which displaced healthy microbes. The research suggests a low threshold for antibiotic exposure to boost resistant microbes.
Antibiotic resistance in a leech's gut
Research by UConn microbiologists found that tiny amounts of antibiotics in chicken blood can encourage bacterial resistance. The study used leeches as a perfect test case and discovered that low levels of ciprofloxacin in poultry blood were selecting for antibiotic-resistant Aeromonas bacteria.
Environment key battle ground in fight to tackle antibiotic resistance
New research reveals that very low concentrations of antibiotics can lead to an increase in resistant bacteria, highlighting the environment as a critical battleground in the fight against antibiotic resistance. The study found that sewage waste water and natural environments can be breeding grounds for resistant bacteria, which can th...
Overuse of antibiotics not what the doctor ordered
A global study reveals 62% of antibiotics sold without prescription in community pharmacies worldwide, posing a significant risk to the development and spread of antibiotic resistance. The study highlights the urgent need for better enforcement of laws regulating antibiotic sales.
Stop antibiotics before resistance 'tipping point'
New evidence suggests that reducing antibiotic course length can reduce the risk of resistance. Microbial communities can reach a tipping point when exposed to antibiotics, leading to an irreversible shift towards drug resistance. Stopping treatment too soon may not prevent resistance from occurring.
Biomarker discovered for pathogen that can blind or kill healthy young people
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have discovered biomarkers that can accurately identify hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae, a rare but increasingly common strain of the bacterium. The discovery provides a clear roadmap for developing a diagnostic test to optimize patient care and epidemiologic surveillance.
High prevalence of inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in a VA healthcare system
A study published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy found that nearly half of all prescriptions reviewed were prescribed unnecessarily, with a third of cases involving non-face-to-face encounters. The research highlights the need for improved antibiotic stewardship in outpatient clinics.