The scientists, from the University of Queensland and a Queensland-based biotechnology company called Alchemia, published their research in Nature Communications.
The researchers got inspiration from the sugar molecules produced by bacteria. “Bacteria have cell walls similar to the walls of a brick house, except instead of mortar the walls are held together by sugar polymers,” said Professor Matt Cooper from UQ’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience. “But if you add one of our modified sugar molecules, they stop the linking process, destroying the cell wall and killing the bacteria.”
This means the researchers have discovered a potential new class of antibiotics.
More articles on antibiotic resistance:
Potential tool to combat antimicrobial resistance: Garlic, study says
13 recent stories on antibiotics and drug resistance
Poll reveals Americans are woefully uneducated about antibiotic resistance: 5 findings
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.