Articles tagged with Antibiotic Resistance
Pioneering work on bacteriophages to combat disease has received an £800,000 boost from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council. The grant will advance production of phages to combat disease in the veterinary field and bring them to market.
A novel biomaterial developed at the Federal University of São Paulo can deliver medication directly to the gastrointestinal tract of fish, enhancing the efficacy of conventional drugs. The material is administered orally in powder form and has shown high penetration into epithelial cells without cytotoxic effects.
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System are developing computer models to better understand the cellular processes and gene activity of multi-drug resistant bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The goal is to identify vulnerabilities in these bacteria and advance the development of new treatments.
The University of Oklahoma is part of a $104 million federal initiative to study antibiotic resistance, led by Harvard Medical School professor Johan Paulsson. The project aims to understand how antibiotic resistance arises and characterize rare cells that survive during antibiotic treatments.
A study by Professor Mark Webber and his team found that the NRCS-A strain of Staphylococcus capitis is commonly carried on the skin and in the gut of uninfected neonatal babies, making transmission between babies within NICUs likely. The bacteria's unique genes allow it to survive in the gut, making cleaning the skin ineffective.
A University of Melbourne research team is developing an oral therapeutic to restore the activity of common antibiotics used to treat community-acquired bacterial pneumonia. The project aims to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and reduce healthcare costs, with potential applications in low- and middle-income countries.
A new study has detected high levels of bacterial resistance to antibiotics in two Australian aged care facilities, highlighting a concerning trend in the sector. The study used wastewater-based surveillance to detect antimicrobial resistance in Escherichia coli and found above-average levels of gentamicin resistance in one facility.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have discovered a genetic scar that enables pneumonia-causing bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics. The study found that mutations in the pde1 gene act as an evolutionary gateway for this resistance, threatening patient treatment and highlighting the need for control measures.
Researchers have discovered a new plasmid in epidemic Vibrio cholerae samples that introduces genes encoding resistance to multiple antibiotics. The finding underscores the importance of genomic surveillance and suggests that the strain's stability poses a concerning factor for future outbreaks.
A Chinese research team discovered chelerythrine's dual effects in combating mobile colistin resistance by reducing MIC and eliminating bacterial colonies. The compound binds to phospholipids, increasing fluidity and impairing respiration, ultimately downregulating mcr-1 gene expression.
A Boston University-led study identified genetic signatures of TB-susceptible and TB-resistant macrophages, leading to a new approach to tweak the immune system to fight the disease. The research could lead to therapies targeting host immunity to tuberculosis.
A multidisciplinary team investigates hospital wastewater samples and demonstrates the effectiveness of photocatalytic treatment in reducing pharmaceutically active compounds and bacteria. The study highlights the challenges posed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria and suggests a promising step towards sustainable wastewater treatment.
Researchers warn of risks associated with eating sushi and sashimi, especially for individuals with weak immune systems. The study highlights the importance of adopting a broad approach to combat the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria through animal and human health, food production, and environment.
Researchers use genomic surveillance to identify distinct sexual networks for syphilis transmission in England, highlighting the presence of drug resistance. The study reveals information beyond standard epidemiological surveillance data, aiding public health strategies to break transmission chains.
Researchers at HKU introduce a novel dual Trojan Horse strategy to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria by mimicking iron uptake. This approach enhances the effectiveness of sideromycins and prolongs their lifespan, offering hope in the fight against superbugs.
A water-soluble tannin known as PGG blocks 90% of the growth in four different species of Candida fungi by grabbing up iron molecules, starving the fungi of an essential nutrient. This mechanism does not promote drug resistance, unlike existing antifungal medications, and shows minimal toxicity to human cells.
Researchers at RMIT University have developed a nano-thin superbug-slaying material effective against drug-resistant bacterial cells. The black phosphorus-based nanotechnology achieved comparable results to antibiotics in eliminating infection and accelerating healing.
Australian researchers analyzed over 1,300 Golden staph strains, linking specific genes to antibiotic resistance and the bacteria's ability to linger in the bloodstream. The study highlights the diagnostic power of integrating clinical and genomic data to develop targeted solutions for deadly superbug infections.
Researchers have found that certain strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae are more likely to survive in blood and serum than others, while neutrophils are less effective at killing them. The study suggests a vaccine approach for prevention/treatment of infections may be feasible.
Researchers have developed a new way to engineer bacterial enzymes, creating unique versions that are hyper-sensitive to existing antibiotics. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of more potent treatments for bacterial infections and improve our understanding of antibiotic resistance.
A new study found that antibiotics promote the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the gut by providing extra nutrients, allowing these 'bad' bacteria to multiply. The research suggests that targeting beneficial bacteria can help restrict the growth of resistant bacteria, paving the way for microbiome therapeutics treatments.
Researchers found that the incidence of gut-colonizing ciprofloxacin-resistant E. coli increased in Seattle-area women over age 50, affecting about 1 in 5 women. The study suggests prioritizing strategies to control drug-resistant E. coli's ability to colonize the gut.
Researchers found that over 80% of honey bees sampled were positive for antimicrobial resistance targets, highlighting the need to monitor pollutants and implement clean-ups. The study also suggests that local waterbodies are a critical source of contamination, particularly in densely populated areas.
Implementing whole genome sequencing (WGS) can prevent bacterial healthcare-associated infections, saving the NHS £480 million annually. The technology has major implications for health policymakers and healthcare leaders, with potential benefits including reduced antimicrobial resistance.
Researchers warn that microplastics and nanoplastics in agricultural soils could contribute to antibiotic-resistant bacteria entering the food chain. This phenomenon is not well known, but studies suggest that plastics can act as vectors for transmitting pathogenic and antimicrobial resistant bacteria.
Researchers from the University of Bonn and international partners have discovered a new antibiotic called clovibactin that effectively attacks the cell wall of bacteria, including multi-resistant 'superbugs'. The compound has been shown to target bacterial cell wall components with high specificity, minimizing resistance development.
A new powerful antibiotic, Clovibactin, has been discovered that can combat harmful bacteria and multi-resistant superbugs. It targets three different precursor molecules essential for bacterial cell wall synthesis, making it difficult for bacteria to develop resistance.
Researchers at ETH Zurich found that Salmonella bacteria can thrive together in the gut and share information about antibiotic survival mechanisms through a metabolic strategy. This exchange of critical information enables the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes, highlighting the impact of dietary components on promoting this phenomenon.
A new study reveals that using big data and machine learning can improve antimicrobial resistance surveillance in livestock production. The research found correlations between environmental variables, microbial communities, and antimicrobial resistance, suggesting multiple routes for improving surveillance.
A new study from the University of Nottingham models how antibiotic resistance genes build up in gut bacteria through lifetime exposure to food intake and antibiotic treatment. The research suggests that reducing exposure to resistance genes is particularly effective during periods of antibiotic treatment, and that dietary advice shoul...
Researchers have developed a molecular 'singlet oxygen battery' that can target and kill methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria in deep tissue layers. The technology, which does not require external light or oxygen, is highly effective in treating pulmonary infections caused by MRSA.
Researchers develop single-use nanoscale system that targets specific bacterium causing ear infections, eliminating most cases without antibiotic use. The system uses hypohalous acid similar to bleach and has shown promise in tests on chinchillas, with potential for future adaptation to prevent recurrent infections.
A new study reveals that bacterial resistance to albicidin is caused by an increase in the number of copies of a specific gene, leading to up to a 1,000-fold increase in resistance. This discovery highlights the growing threat of antibiotic resistance and underscores the need for effective strategies to combat it.
A new antibiotic strategy has been found to defeat gram-negative bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli by interfering with the outer lipid layer of the bacteria. The compound, LPC-233, is a small molecule that works fast and is durable in animal tests, with potentially vital applications against stubborn urinary tract infections.
Researchers used phage PASA16 to treat tough Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections, achieving an impressive 86.6% success rate. The study demonstrated the potential effectiveness of phage therapy as a valuable alternative to conventional antibiotics in combating antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
The study estimates more than two of every five deaths in the Americas were associated with AMR in 2019, accounting for 11.5% of global deaths. The four most fatal infectious syndromes were bacterial respiratory infections, bloodstream infections, and urinary tract infections.
A new study suggests that controlling air pollution could reduce antibiotic resistance, which is responsible for 480,000 premature deaths annually. The analysis indicates a significant link between PM2.5 levels and antibiotic resistance globally.
A team of researchers at the University of Oklahoma has made a groundbreaking discovery in overcoming antimicrobial resistance by developing a new class of molecules that inhibit efflux pumps. These inhibitors work as 'molecular wedges' targeting the area between bacterial cell membranes, increasing the effectiveness of antibiotics.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered how a bacterium called Vibrio alginolyticus moves using sodium ions, which could lead to new targets for antibiotics. The study provides insights into the flagellum's movement and may help develop novel antibiotics to combat antibiotic resistance.
A multidisciplinary team will investigate six antibiotic-resistant organisms, including MRSA and VRE, in 50 nursing homes using computer simulation models and scientific methods. The research aims to elucidate detection methods, spread drivers, and risk factors for MDROs, informing infection prevention policies.
A new study suggests that bacterial testing in children with sinusitis could greatly reduce unnecessary antibiotic use. By identifying which children are likely to benefit from antibiotics, doctors can avoid prescribing medications to those who wouldn't see improvement in symptoms.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a rapid test that detects bladder infections using bacteriophages, which can identify the pathogenic bacteria in under four hours. The test also allows for tailored phage therapy, predicting patient response and increasing treatment effectiveness.
Researchers developed a novel metal-derived complex to treat Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC), a serious respiratory infection resistant to antibiotics. The treatment, manganese carbonyl, showed protective effects in chickens with APEC, reducing bacterial shedding and killing.
A novel stress signalling system has been discovered by SMART researchers, enabling bacteria cells to adapt and survive against the immune system and certain antibiotics. The breakthrough discovery of RlmN as a stress sensor may lead to the development of new therapies to combat antimicrobial resistance.
A team of researchers led by Laura-Isobel McCall and Zhibo Yang is using single-cell mass spectrometry to investigate the role of intracellular drug concentration in antimicrobial treatment failure.
A scorpionfish protein has been found to effectively kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria from patients with cystic fibrosis, escaping an immune response that renders the human version of the protein ineffective. This discovery may provide new therapeutic options for treating chronic bacterial infections in people with cystic fibrosis.
The study identified significant differences in antibiotic resistance trends and associated factors depending on bacterial species and antibiotic resistance to certain antibiotics. High health system quality was linked to low levels of resistance, while high temperatures were associated with increased resistance in Enterobacteriaceae.
A combination of far UVC and blue LED light has been shown to be effective in inactivating a wide range of microorganisms, including antibiotic-resistant ESBL-Ec bacteria. The coupling of these two light wavelengths increases their effectiveness through different mechanisms of microorganism inactivation.
Researchers have developed a new method to detect antibiotic resistances in Proteus mirabilis, enabling faster identification of potentially resistant strains. The algorithm uses cutting-edge molecular biology methods and can determine whether a bacterial strain is susceptible to carbapenem antibiotics.
A study published in the Journal of Hospital Infection reveals that pharmacist-led multi-faceted interventions can optimize antimicrobial prescriptions in dental clinics, reducing the incidence of serious infectious diseases. The intervention increased penicillin usage and decreased the use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials.
Researchers found that antimicrobial resistance emerges from selection for pre-existing resistant clones, not new mutations. Infections with multiple pathogen clones show increased resistance to antibiotics, but also potential for faster loss of resistance when no antibiotics are present.
Researchers discovered that combining honey and vinegar can effectively kill bacteria in biofilms, making it a potential treatment for persistent infections. The study found that using both honey and acetic acid was more effective than using either substance alone.
Researchers have discovered a new target for antibiotics that could treat multi-drug resistant superbugs. The antibiotic AMC-109 affects the cell membrane of bacteria by disordering its organization, leading to the death of the bacterium. This approach may also break down resistance to old-fashioned antibiotics.
Researchers found that viruses can insert genes into bacteria to help them adapt and survive in nutrient-depleted man-made environments. The study also identified novel immune systems against viruses in bacteria and detected antibiotic resistance genes in viruses on human skin and surfaces.
A recent study found that Kenyan patients who spend more than three days in hospitals are more likely to harbor antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The research team identified three risk factors associated with colonization, including hospitalization for extended periods and intubation.
Scientists have gained high-res structural insights into a key bacterial enzyme to develop new drugs that target its weaknesses and suppress disease-causing bacteria. The enzyme Lnt is not found in humans and has huge potential as a therapeutic target with fewer side effects for patients.
Researchers discovered high levels of antibiotic resistance among war-wounded patients in Ukrainian hospitals, with nearly 10% resistant to colistin. The study highlights the challenges posed by resistant bacteria in times of war, particularly the highly resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria.
Researchers discovered how two new compounds attack TB-causing bacteria, providing insights into future therapies. The study found that one compound binds better to ATP synthase than existing treatment, while another targets a previously unknown site.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have discovered a drug called DEQ that significantly reduces the ability of bacteria to develop antibiotic resistance. The study shows that DEQ works by slowing down genetic mutations in bacteria, thereby prolonging the effectiveness of antibiotics.
A 'poo transplant' trial provides evidence that faecal microbiota transplants can improve gut health in patients with cirrhosis, reducing the likelihood of infections. The PROMISE trial aims to deliver FMT capsules via oral administration, offering a potential breakthrough for patients with advanced liver disease.