Dual action antibiotic could make bacterial resistance nearly impossible
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago developed macrolones, a new antibiotic class that targets protein production and DNA structure, significantly reducing bacterial resistance and showing promise for further development.
Read original article
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have developed a new class of antibiotics called macrolones, which could significantly reduce the likelihood of bacterial resistance. Published in Nature Chemical Biology, the study reveals that these synthetic drugs disrupt bacterial cell function by targeting two different cellular mechanisms: protein production and DNA structure. This dual action makes it 100 million times more difficult for bacteria to evolve resistance, as they would need to simultaneously defend against both attacks. The macrolones combine features of two existing antibiotic classes—macrolides, which inhibit ribosome function, and fluoroquinolones, which target DNA gyrase.
The research team, led by professors Alexander Mankin and Yury Polikanov, found that macrolones bind more tightly to ribosomes than traditional macrolides and can inhibit strains resistant to these older antibiotics without triggering resistance genes. Their experiments indicated that one particular macrolone was effective at low doses against both targets, making it a promising candidate for further development. The interdisciplinary collaboration at UIC facilitated this research, emphasizing the need for chemists to optimize macrolones to effectively target both mechanisms. The findings suggest a new direction in antibiotic development that could help combat the growing issue of antibiotic resistance.
Related
Combined Covid-flu vaccines are coming: Moderna jab clears major test
Moderna completes phase-III trials for a COVID-flu mRNA vaccine, showing higher efficacy in adults over 50. Plans for FDA approval highlight benefits of combination vaccines and mRNA technology's adaptability to variants.
Nanorobot with hidden weapon kills cancer cells
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed nanorobots targeting cancer cells in mice. The nanorobots use a hidden weapon activated in acidic tumor environments, reducing tumor growth by 70% in tests. Further research is needed for human trials.
'Supermodel granny' drug extends life in animals
A drug targeting interleukin-11 extended lab mice lifespans by 25%, improving health and reducing cancer rates. Human testing is ongoing, with potential anti-ageing effects sparking interest in molecular ageing mechanisms.
Anti-ageing 'supermodel granny' drug extends life in mice by 25%
A drug targeting interleukin-11 extended lab mice lifespans by 25%, improving health and reducing cancer. Its effects on human ageing are uncertain, despite promising results. Researchers aim to slow ageing by manipulating molecular processes.
Bye Bye Superbugs? New Antibiotic Is Virtually Resistance-Proof
A new class of antibiotics, macrolones, shows promise against antimicrobial resistance by using a dual-target approach. Developed by researchers, they effectively combat resistant bacteria, offering hope for future treatments.
14 commentsMultiple mutations could also occur if the cells are being exposed to sublethal amounts of the antibiotic, say in sewers (which would also be an environment for evolution of enzymes to degrade the chemical.)
Step 2: Formula sold to developing countries pharmaceutical industry
Step 3: Antibiotic given to every man, woman, and child with even the most trivial of symptoms
Step 4: Widespread bacterial resistance to dual action antibiotic.
Step 5: rinse, repeat
We need better antibiotic distribution practices before we unleash more formulas on the world. Anything this strong should never be given to farm animals and should not be given to any developing country not willing to implement strong access control on a patient by patient basis (ie verified infection with bacteria that can be controlled with the formula and verified completion of course)
Bacteria: Hold my beer.
do you know how many bacteria, all mutating and swapping genes, there are out there?
also, dual therapy, particularly for TB has been used for years, but TB is still with us.
Related
Combined Covid-flu vaccines are coming: Moderna jab clears major test
Moderna completes phase-III trials for a COVID-flu mRNA vaccine, showing higher efficacy in adults over 50. Plans for FDA approval highlight benefits of combination vaccines and mRNA technology's adaptability to variants.
Nanorobot with hidden weapon kills cancer cells
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed nanorobots targeting cancer cells in mice. The nanorobots use a hidden weapon activated in acidic tumor environments, reducing tumor growth by 70% in tests. Further research is needed for human trials.
'Supermodel granny' drug extends life in animals
A drug targeting interleukin-11 extended lab mice lifespans by 25%, improving health and reducing cancer rates. Human testing is ongoing, with potential anti-ageing effects sparking interest in molecular ageing mechanisms.
Anti-ageing 'supermodel granny' drug extends life in mice by 25%
A drug targeting interleukin-11 extended lab mice lifespans by 25%, improving health and reducing cancer. Its effects on human ageing are uncertain, despite promising results. Researchers aim to slow ageing by manipulating molecular processes.
Bye Bye Superbugs? New Antibiotic Is Virtually Resistance-Proof
A new class of antibiotics, macrolones, shows promise against antimicrobial resistance by using a dual-target approach. Developed by researchers, they effectively combat resistant bacteria, offering hope for future treatments.