A vulnerability that could save humanity: scientists have discovered how to combat superbugs.

Scientists have identified a critical vulnerability in antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and this discovery could enhance the effectiveness of existing medications. Researchers from B CUBE — the Center for Molecular Bioengineering at TU Dresden and the Pasteur Institute in Paris have uncovered how some bacteria rapidly adapt to antibiotics while others lag behind, and how this knowledge can be utilized for the benefit of humanity, as reported by Technische Universität Dresden.

The scientific study, published in the journal Science Advances, detailed the genetic mechanisms behind resistance and proposed potential new treatment methods for combating superbugs. Antibiotic resistance has been an issue since the introduction of penicillin in 1928. While antibiotics revolutionized healthcare by effectively fighting bacterial infections, their overuse and misuse have accelerated the evolution of superbugs — bacteria that are resistant to multiple drugs. This poses significant risks, especially for patients with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems.

As explained by Professor Michael Schlieerf from TU Dresden, the study's author, understanding bacterial adaptability can aid in developing strategies to slow down or prevent the development of their resistance. The research focuses on the integron system — a genetic mechanism that bacteria use to exchange and acquire resistance genes. This system can be likened to an organism's "toolkit," employing recombinase proteins to perform genetic operations akin to "cut and paste."

The rate at which bacteria develop resistance depends on DNA sequences, with specific configurations enabling faster adaptation. Professor Didier Mazel from the Pasteur Institute discussed the role of DNA hairpins — structures resembling U-shaped pins that interact with recombinases and determine the efficiency of resistance. The Dresden team utilized optical tweezers, an advanced microscopy technique, to analyze the interactions between proteins and DNA. Their research revealed that tightly bound complexes operate more efficiently, facilitating rapid acquisition of resistance. In contrast, weaker complexes often disintegrate, slowing down the incorporation of resistance genes.

This discovery may pave the way for therapies targeting these fragile complexes to enhance the effectiveness of existing antibiotics, according to the researchers. Although the functions of the integron system have been extensively studied, the new research merges their biophysical perspectives to provide a clearer understanding of the vulnerabilities in dangerous bacteria. Leveraging these weak points, as suggested by Professor Schlieerf, may delay their adaptation process, allowing for the necessary time for existing antibiotics to act effectively.

Antibiotic resistance poses a serious burden on global health. According to the World Health Organization, over 700,000 deaths annually are attributed to drug-resistant infections, and this number is projected to rise without the implementation of effective measures or the emergence of new medications.

Important! This article is based on the latest scientific and medical research and is in line with it. The text is for informational purposes only and does not contain medical advice. For diagnosis, please consult a physician.