Rise of antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea needs urgent action
Antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea is evolving into a scourge, making most treatments ineffective. Targeted approaches and public education campaigns can help stop its spread.
Antibiotic Resistance
Articles tagged with Antibiotic Resistance
Notre Dame researchers demonstrate antibiotic sensing event central to MRSA antibiotic resistance
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have identified a critical mechanism in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics. The 'lysine N-decarboxylation switch' process, facilitated by protein BlaR1, enables MRSA to conserve resources until it detects an antibiotic threat.
New research will help combat antibiotic resistance problems in Africa
A Ghanaian PhD student has developed a new chemical analysis technique to determine the exact contents of drugs, helping to tackle uneven medicine quality and unauthorized drug sales in Africa. The technique will also be used for environmental investigations to combat antibiotic resistance in aquatic environments.
The American Society for Microbiology honors Andrea Endimiani
Andrea Endimiani has been recognized for his groundbreaking research on the impact of drug resistance traits on infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. He has also made significant contributions to understanding the prevalence of KPC-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in multiple US cities.
The American Society for Microbiology honors John G. Bartlett
Dr. John G. Bartlett has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to antimicrobial chemotherapy and infectious diseases research. He is a pioneer in understanding emerging problems and innovations in the field.
The American Society for Microbiology honors Benjamin P. Howden
Benjamin P. Howden, a leading expert in S. aureus and E. faecium research, receives the award for his groundbreaking work on antimicrobial resistance mechanisms and virulence. His research has led to new insights into vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus and reduced linezolid susceptibility.
Ophthalmic antibiotics associated with antimicrobial resistance after intraocular injection therapy
A study of 24 patients found that repeated exposure to fluoroquinolone and azithromycin antibiotics increased resistance to multiple drugs, including older- and newer-generation antibiotics. This raises concerns about the judicious use of ophthalmic antibiotics to prevent antimicrobial resistance.
Genomic analysis of superbug provides clues to antibiotic resistance
Researchers analyzed the genome of a superbug called vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) to understand its resistance to antibiotics. They identified changes in genes that led to daptomycin resistance, offering insights into developing new drugs to combat this growing health threat.
Mass. Eye and Ear awarded largest NIH grant in hospital’s history
The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary has received a $11 million grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease to coordinate a Harvard-wide project on antibiotic resistance. The goal is to develop new antibiotics to treat highly resistant infections caused by staph and other related bacteria.
Resistance to antibiotics is ancient, McMaster study finds
Scientists have discovered that antibiotic-resistant genes existed in ancient DNA from 30,000-year-old permafrost. This finding suggests that resistance is a natural phenomenon that predates modern clinical antibiotic use.
Poultry farms that go organic have significantly fewer antibiotic-resistant bacteria
A study by the University of Maryland School of Public Health found that organic poultry farms have lower levels of drug-resistant enterococci bacteria compared to conventional farms. This suggests that removing antibiotics from large-scale U.S. poultry farms can lead to immediate and significant reductions in antibiotic resistance for...
Student brings home new expertise to answer question in antibiotic resistance
A Vietnamese PhD student, Tung Le, has made a breakthrough in understanding how an antibiotic-producing organism controls resistance to its own antibiotic. His research shows that the SimR protein regulates antibiotic export by binding to DNA or the antibiotic itself.
New WHO guidelines call for more evidence on drug-resistant TB
The World Health Organization has released updated guidelines for managing drug-resistant tuberculosis, highlighting the need for more research to improve disease management. Key recommendations include wider use of rapid drug susceptibility testing and ambulatory models of care.
New study identifies emergence of multidrug-resistant strain of salmonella
A new study identified a multidrug-resistant strain of Salmonella with high resistance to ciprofloxacin, infecting 489 patients in France, England and Wales, and Denmark between 2000 and 2008. Poultry is believed to be a major vehicle for spreading these infections.
Bacterial resistance to antibiotics: The more they resist, the more they divide
Research shows that bacterial resistance mechanisms increase survival and reproduction rates when both genetic mutations and plasmid insertions occur simultaneously. Bacteria like Escherichia coli exhibit faster reproduction in up to 32% of mutation-plasmid combinations.
Antibiotic appears more effective than cranberry capsules for preventing urinary tract infections
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole was more effective than cranberry capsules in preventing recurrent urinary tract infections. However, the use of antibiotics increased the risk of developing drug-resistant bacteria.
Computer simulations aid understanding of bacterial resistance against commonly used antibiotics
Researchers used computer simulations to study bacterial resistance against aminoglycoside antibiotics, revealing the physical basis of one mechanism - mutations of the antibiotic target site. The findings suggest possible drug modifications to combat resistant bacteria.
Research provides insight into new drug resistance in hospital microbes
Researchers discovered a new mechanism of resistance to daptomycin in enterococcus strains, which can be attributed to mutations in the cardiolipin synthase gene. This finding provides valuable information on how antibiotics work and could lead to the development of better treatments for resistant infections.
Popular fungicides failing, may cause hard choices for apple growers
A Purdue University study found that four popular fungicides have lost effectiveness against apple scab in Indiana and Michigan. The fungus has developed resistance, making it difficult for growers to manage their orchards without using older, more expensive fungicides.
Study reveals possible explanation for the greater virulence of E. coli strain behind deadly German outbreak
Researchers identified a rare O104:H4 strain that combined Shiga toxin-producing ability with enteroaggregative E. coli adherence, explaining its high virulence and unusually severe HUS cases. The strain also showed extended-spectrum ß-lactamase resistance, making it resistant to penicillins but susceptible to carbapenems.
Scientists develop a fatty 'kryptonite' to defeat multidrug-resistant 'Super bugs'
A team of Canadian scientists discovered that specific mixtures of antimicrobial agents presented in lipid (fatty) mixtures can significantly boost the effectiveness of those agents to kill multidrug-resistant bacteria. This new therapy has the potential to combat bacterial multidrug resistance, a growing clinical problem.
E. coli bacteria more likely to develop resistance after exposure to low levels of antibiotics, reports a study in Microbial Drug Resistance
A recent study found that E. coli bacteria are more likely to develop resistance to antibiotics when exposed to low levels of these medications, rather than high concentrations. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the safety of using antibiotics in food animals and highlights the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.
New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase-1 enzyme acquired in Canada
A case report reveals NDM-1 enzyme was acquired by a Canadian resident without travel history, highlighting local transmission risk. Enhanced precautions, including isolation and screening procedures, are necessary to contain the outbreak.
Drug-resistance fears for deadly fungal disease
Scientists have developed a new test that can diagnose Aspergillus infection and spot signs of antifungal resistance to azoles. Using this test, the team found 55% of aspergillosis patients had telltale signs of resistance to azoles.
Can the International Health Regulations apply to antimicrobial resistance?
A call for action proposes applying the International Health Regulations to antimicrobial resistance due to its global health threat. However, another expert disagrees that the IHR were intended to tackle all disease threats and that implementation would be impossible.
Increased prevention efforts may not reduce spread of hospital-based bacteria
A NIH study found that active surveillance for bacteria and barrier precautions did not reduce the transmission of two important antibiotic-resistant bacteria in hospital-based settings. The use of gloves and gowns was also not sufficient to prevent bacterial spread.
Long-term use of antibiotic to treat acne not associated with increased bacterial resistance
A study found that long-term antibiotic use for acne decreased S. aureus colonization by nearly 70%, with no increased resistance to tetracycline antibiotics observed. This contradicts current dogma about long-term antibiotic use, suggesting further research is needed.
Lifesaving antibiotics face doubtful future
The Infectious Diseases Society of America warns that antibiotic-resistant super bugs threaten public health, citing a need for urgent action. The organization recommends initiatives to combat resistance, including incentivizing R&D, recalibrating FDA requirements, and promoting judicious use of antibiotics.
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria in Indian public water supply
A Cardiff University-led team discovered antibiotic-resistant bacteria carrying the NDM-1 gene in New Delhi's drinking water supply, including strains that cause cholera and dysentery. The findings highlight the need for urgent action to tackle the spread of resistant bacteria worldwide.
Large Veterans Health Administration study shows 'last resort' antibiotics use on the rise
A recent study by the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America found a dramatic increase in the use of carbapenems, powerful last-resort antibiotics, over five years. This trend is alarming as carbapenem-resistant bacteria become more common, weakening their effectiveness against emerging infections.
Drug-resistant pathogen found in large numbers in LA County
Researchers detected high numbers of CRKP in long-term acute care hospitals, with 42% of cases occurring in these settings. The study highlights the need for heightened surveillance to monitor emerging pathogens like CRKP.
Preventive antibiotic use significantly lowers risk of infection with antibiotic-resistant bacteria in intensive care patients
A large randomized trial found that preventive antibiotic use significantly reduces the risk of infection with highly resistant microorganisms in intensive care patients. Patients treated with selective digestive tract decontamination (SDD) were 59% less likely to develop bacteraemia and 38% less likely to colonize respiratory tracts.
Economics and evolution help scientists identify new strategy to control antibiotic resistance
Scientists from the University of Oxford developed a new strategy to combat antibiotic resistance by increasing the biological cost of resistant bacteria. The approach aims to reduce the competitiveness of drug-resistant strains and prolong the effectiveness of existing antibiotics.
CDC, Cook County and Rush collaborate to research and prevent hospital infections
The Chicago Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Prevention Epicenter (CARPE) program aims to reduce healthcare-associated infections, antibiotic resistance and other adverse events. Researchers will use data from electronic health records to develop practice guidelines and policies to control antibiotic use.
Pollution with antibiotics leads to resistant bacteria
Swedish scientists reveal that pollutants from Indian factories are breeding resistance genes in river bacteria, posing a global risk for untreatable diseases. The study's novel DNA sequencing approach may also aid future hospital research.
New quadruple therapy regimen more effective at eliminating Helicobacter pylori infection
A new quadruple therapy regimen with omeprazole and a three-in-one capsule has been shown to be more effective in eradicating Helicobacter pylori infection than the standard 7-day treatment regimen. The study found that eradication rates were 80% for the quadruple therapy group versus 55% for the standard therapy group.
Household bugs -- a risk to human health?
Research published in BMC Microbiology suggests that insects on pig farms can carry and transmit antibiotic-resistant bacteria to humans. The study found high prevalence of resistant Enterococcus faecalis and faecium in insect intestines, mirroring those found in pigs' feces.
A pesky bacterial slime reveals its survival secrets
Scientists at Harvard University have made a groundbreaking discovery about biofilm colonies, which exhibit an unprecedented ability to repel liquids and vapors. The researchers believe that the secret to their resiliency lies in their unique liquid-repellent surface.
Antibiotic resistance is not just genetic
Researchers discovered interplay between genetic and persistence mechanisms in bacteria, leading to novel effective treatments for multi-drug resistant (MDR) infections. Persistence cells are temporarily hyper-resistant to antibiotics, causing treatment failure and contributing to chronic bacterial infections.
Virginia Tech engineer identifies new concerns for antibiotic resistance, pollution
A new study reveals that antibiotics in agricultural areas can contaminate water sources, potentially contributing to the spread of antibiotic resistance genes. Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified patterns of antibiotic resistance gene occurrence in a Colorado watershed, suggesting that specific manmade sources can be traced.
Health-care-acquired infections greatly increase risk of dying in intensive care, but additional impact of antimicrobial resistance is small
Critically ill patients with bloodstream infections and pneumonia face a greatly increased risk of dying, but the impact of antimicrobial resistance on patient outcomes is relatively small. The study analyzed data from over 500 intensive care units in ten European countries, finding that infections directly worsen outcomes for patients.
University of Minnesota engineering researcher finds new way to fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have discovered a new way to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria by treating municipal wastewater solids at higher temperatures. This approach can destroy up to 99.9% of bacterial genes that confer resistance, making it a potential tool in the fight against superbugs.
Antibiotics have long-term impacts on gut flora
A recent review reveals that antibiotics can alter normal gut bacteria composition and leave resistance genes present for extended periods. This increases the risk of pathogenic bacteria survival and multi-drug resistance.
NIH funds 4 clinical trials to fight antimicrobial resistance
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has awarded four new contracts for large-scale clinical trials to evaluate treatment alternatives for diseases caused by resistant bacteria. These trials will focus on acute otitis media, community-acquired pneumonia, and Gram-negative bacterial infections.
NC State research grant will help military combat infections
Researchers will test NC State-created molecules against different types of animal cells infected with bacteria, aiming to develop effective treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections. The project aims to identify leading candidates that both revive antibiotics' effectiveness and have a low toxicity profile.
Scientists reveal structure of dangerous bacteria's powerful multidrug resistance pump
A team at Scripps Research Institute has detailed the structure of a member of the only remaining class of multidrug resistance transporters. The study, published in Nature, may lead to the development of new antibiotics and improve crop agriculture by reengineering the transporter to help plants grow in soil they can't grow in now.
Seagulls harbor antibiotic resistant bacteria
A recent study published in Proteome Science found that one in ten seagull droppings contain 'superbug' bacteria resistant to Vancomycin. The researchers used a novel technique called proteomics to detect bacterial proteins connected to antibiotic resistance, providing new targets for antimicrobial agents and potential biomarkers.
Turning a new page on antibiotics
A historic conference at Uppsala University marked a turning point in the fight against antibiotic resistance. Global leaders agreed on joint action and shared data to monitor and limit unnecessary use of antibiotics, as well as improve access to affordable medicines in developing countries.
New study suggests changes in diagnosis and treatment of malaria
Researchers have identified a gene mutation that confers resistance to the antibiotic clindamycin in malaria parasites. The findings suggest that current diagnostic tests may be inadequate and highlight the need for new treatment strategies. This study contributes to our understanding of the genetic basis of drug resistance in malaria.
Drug-resistant malaria suggests a health policy change for pregnant women and infants
A new study found that a Peruvian parasite population had significant genetic instability near the telomere, leading to missed diagnoses from rapid diagnostic tests. The researchers also identified a gene mutation that confers resistance to clindamycin, a commonly administered drug for treating malaria in pregnant women and infants.
Pharmaceutical conservation key to slowing rise of antibiotic-resistant infections
A new report suggests that conserving and wisely using existing antibiotics is key to slowing the rise of antibiotic-resistant infections. The proposal would reward pharmaceutical companies for marketing drugs in a way that keeps resistance rates low by setting 'effectiveness targets' and coordinating with physicians and hospitals.
Cockroach brains could be rich stores of new antibiotics
Scientists discovered antibiotic properties in cockroach and locust brains, killing over 90% of MRSA and E. coli bacteria without harming human cells.
Insect brains are rich stores of new antibiotics
Scientists have identified powerful antibiotic properties in cockroach and locust brains, effective against MRSA and E. coli without harming human cells. These novel molecules could lead to new treatments for multi-drug resistant bacterial infections.
Antibiotic resistance: It takes a village
A new study reveals that resistant pathogens can trigger protective mechanisms in non-resistant neighbors, increasing overall colony survival. The team identified an enzyme called tryptophanase, which produces indole, a signaling molecule offering protection against antibiotics.
Antibacterial peptide could aid in treating soldiers' burn wound infections
A new antibacterial peptide has shown great effectiveness against multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Escherichia coli infections in burn wounds. The peptide A3-APO is less toxic than current antibiotics and offers a promising alternative for treating these common infections in soldiers.
Bacterial charity work thwarts medical treatments
Research reveals that a small percentage of bacteria become highly resistant supermutants, while most survive without being resistant to antibiotics. These supermutants produce high levels of indole, a signaling molecule that promotes survival in harsh environments.
New research finds evidence of charitable behavior in bacteria
Researchers found that bacteria with highly resistant isolates sacrifice their own fitness to produce indole, helping vulnerable members survive antibiotics. This complex behavior was previously unknown and has significant implications for understanding bacterial strains and antibiotic resistance.
Researchers develop MRSA-killing paint
A new coating, combining carbon nanotubes with the natural enzyme lysostaphin, has been created to safely eradicate MRSA from surfaces. The coating is effective, selective and stable, and does not rely on antibiotics or leach chemicals into the environment.
Image of new antibiotic in action opens up new opportunities to combat antibacterial resistance
A new experimental antibiotic has been shown to be effective against bacteria that are resistant to existing treatments. The compound works by targeting a specific enzyme in the bacteria's internal machinery, preventing it from reproducing.
Emerging E. coli strain causes many antimicrobial-resistant infections in US
The ST131 strain of E. coli is a major cause of serious antimicrobial-resistant infections in the US, accounting for 67-69% of resistant isolates. Researchers urge discovering its sources to prevent further spread.