New Compound Discovered That Can Kill Antibiotic-Resistant Superbugs
Scientists at the University of Sheffield and Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) were able to find a new compound which can be use to visualize and kill antibiotic resistant superbugs.
Superbugs are microorganisms that have develop the ability to resist antibiotic treatment, rendering medicines ineffective and increasing the risk for spreading infection to others.
Professor Jim Thomas, principal Investigator of the research from the University of Sheffield's Department of Chemistry, and his team, worked with colleagues at the Science and Technology Facilities Council's (STFC) Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL).
They have developed a new compound that is able to kill both gram-positive and gram-negative antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria differ in their cell wall structure. Gram-negative bacteria, compared with gram-positive bacteria, are more resistant against antibodies because of their impenetrable cell wall.
Although the team had previously developed a new compound that specifically targets gram-negative bacteria, this new compound is actually a broad spectrum antimicrobial that can be effective against both types of bacteria.
Because this new compound is luminescent, it glows when exposed to light allowing the reasearch team to visualize the uptake and effect of the drug on the bacteria through the use of advanced microscopy techniques available at STFC's Rutherford Appleton Lab.
READ ABOUT: People With Less Reaction to Stress Tasks Are More Likely to Show PTSD Signs After COVID-19
Antimicrobial Resistance a Global Concern
Microorganisms continue to develop new resistance mechanisms, which threatens the ability of scientists to effectively treat common infectious diseases. It increases the length of hospital stays thereby increasing healthcare costs and requiring a more intensive care approach for patients.
Antimicrobial resistance is a rapidly emerging threat that is estimated to kill more than 10 million people every year by the year 2050 if not addressed.
No new treatment for gram-negative bacteria has been found in the last 50 years by doctors, and no other potential drugs have entered clinical trials since 2010.
The emergence of this new compund opens up a range of exciting opportunities.
Professor Jim Thomas explained that this breakthrough could paved the way for discovery of vital new treatments against life-threatening superbugs and the growing risk associated with antimicrobial resistance.
Factors for the Increase in Spread of Antimicrobial Resistance
Antimicrobial resistance develops overtime, but the overuse and misuse of antibiotics have accelerated its process.
Antimicrobial resistant-microbes are found everywhere. It is found in people, animals, food, and the environment. They can spread among people and animals, which can be from food of animal origin, and from person to person. Poor infection control and sanitary conditions, as well as inappropriate food-handling can all contribute to the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
WHO Response Against This Emerging Threat
WHO continues to provide technical assistance to assist countries with the development of their national action plans, strengthen their health and surveillance systems so as to better prevent and manage antimicrobial resistance.It works hand-in-hand with partners to strengthen develop new responses to this global threat.
WHO continues to address antimicrobial resistance by leading multiple initiatives.
LEARN MORE: Tips on How to Manage and Prevent Melanoma
Check out more news and information on Immunity on MD News Daily.
Sep 07, 2020 11:16 AM EDT
