Antibiotics typically bind to and shut down bacterial ribosomes, the organelle that builds proteins in the cell. Due to antibiotic resistance, bacteria have evolved mechanisms to prevent the blocking of their ribosomes by antibiotics. Researchers have developed a fully synthetic compound - cresomycin - based on the molecular structure of lincosamide antibiotics. They tested this compound in mice with antibiotic-resistant E. coli and found that it suppressed bacterial growth. When tested in human cells, the compound didn't cause notable damage. Researchers are hoping to move closer to clinical trials next.
I found this to be a very informative article. Antibiotic resistance is a very serious problem, so discovering the development of potential new antibiotics is incredibly important. I do think the article was purposefully vague when discussing the damage the antibiotic did to human cells in testing. What precisely does "notable damage" mean? Regardless, this is undoubtedly a step in the right direction.
Article: Designing a new antibiotic to combat drug resistance
Additional Information: Bringing multidrug-resistant pathogens to their knees
Hi Giselle,
ReplyDeleteThe significance of Sharon Reynolds' study on the discovery of cresomycin, a new antibiotic that shows promise against drug-resistant illnesses in mice, is clearly explained in your analysis. Although you acknowledge that fighting antibiotic resistance is crucial, your criticism of the article's lack of clarity regarding its effects on human cells raises valid worries about its overall usefulness in tackling a pressing medical issue. Great post!