Scientists discover new part of the immune system
Scientists discovered that the proteasome can convert old proteins into antimicrobial agents during bacterial infections, potentially leading to new antibiotics to combat drug-resistant infections, as detailed in Nature.
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Scientists have discovered a new aspect of the immune system that could lead to the development of new antibiotics. This discovery centers on the proteasome, a cellular structure responsible for recycling proteins. Researchers from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel found that the proteasome can change its function when a cell is infected by bacteria, transforming old proteins into antimicrobial agents that can destroy bacterial cell walls. This novel mechanism of immunity was detailed in the journal Nature and shows promise in combating drug-resistant infections, which claim over a million lives annually. The researchers conducted experiments that demonstrated the effectiveness of these natural antibiotics against bacteria in laboratory settings and in mice suffering from pneumonia and sepsis. Experts in the field have expressed excitement about the findings, noting that this could provide a new avenue for antibiotic development, especially since these substances are derived from the human body, potentially easing safety concerns in drug development. However, further research is needed to fully explore the potential of these findings in creating new antibiotics.
- A new part of the immune system has been discovered that may lead to new antibiotics.
- The proteasome can transform old proteins into antimicrobial agents when a cell is infected.
- This discovery could help combat the growing issue of drug-resistant infections.
- The findings were published in the journal Nature and show promise in laboratory and animal studies.
- Further research is necessary to develop these natural antibiotics into viable treatments.
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Scientists discover new part of the immune system - potential for antibiotics
Scientists discovered a new immune system component involving the proteasome, which can convert old proteins into antimicrobial agents, potentially leading to novel antibiotics against drug-resistant infections. Further research is needed.
3 commentsWe'll see where this ends up 30 years from now.
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Scientists discover new part of the immune system - potential for antibiotics
Scientists discovered a new immune system component involving the proteasome, which can convert old proteins into antimicrobial agents, potentially leading to novel antibiotics against drug-resistant infections. Further research is needed.