Scientists beat resistant anthrax without antibiotics

The spread of antibiotic resistance poses new threats. The researchers presented in the journal

American Chemical Society method that overcomes the defense mechanisms of anthrax and gives the immune system the ability to fight the infection.

Bacillus anthracis is a type of bacteria thatcan lead to anthrax infection through exposure to anthrax spores if swallowed, inhaled, or cut on the skin. The infection can lead to breathing difficulties, skin ulcers, or even death. Scientists have developed antibiotics to treat this infection, but over time, bacteria become resistant to them.

In their work, scientists investigated the Ames strain.It is a particularly virulent variant of Bacillus anthracis. Its secret lies in a shell of poly-D-glutamic acid, which acts like an invisibility cloak, helping bacteria evade the human immune system. The protective shell is attached to the bacteria by the CapD enzyme.

Enzymes break down the protective membrane, opening the way for neutrophils to bacteria. Image: Khushie Matharoo et al., ACS Publications

The researchers found that additionalthe introduction of this enzyme does not increase, but, on the contrary, weakens the protection. Scientists reconstructed the enzyme, and in order for it to last longer in the body, they strengthened it with polyethylene glycol (PEG). The introduction of this protein into mice increased the survival rate when infected with the Ames strain. Enzyme molecules break holes in the protective shell, opening up access for the immune system to bacteria.

To further improve the effectiveness of therapy,The researchers modified the PEG-enriched enzyme by combining it with mouse antibodies to anthrax. When tested in a mouse model, this construct lasted longer than the previous version without the fusion antibody, although it had less activity. The researchers believe that similar treatment strategies could be developed to combat other antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Read more:

The space plane will deliver cargo to the ISS and land at a regular "airport"

A swarm of galaxies orbiting a single hyperluminous star was found in the early universe

Physicists explain Hawking's 'cosmic mismatch': how it will change science