Scientists at the institute constructed a molecule that resembles the characteristic sugar coating on the surface of bacteria and can produce a similar immune response as the bacterium itself. Since the immune system can produce antibodies against the pathogen, the molecule can be used as an inexpensive and effective vaccine, thus protecting patients against C. diff.
“Our findings are a very good example of how basic research into the human immune response to sugars can lead to new candidates in the fight against dangerous hospital germs,” said Peter H. Seeberger, PhD, director at the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces.
Already, the scientists at the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces in Potsdam are collaborating with Vaxxilon AG, which has licensed a portfolio of vaccine candidates, including candidates for C. diff.
More articles on C. diff:
Researchers derive clinical rule to predict patients at risk of developing C. diff
Isolating asymptomatic C. diff carriers linked with lower incidence of infection
Research reveals C. diff is more common in community than previously realized
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