What New Strategy Has Been Discovered to Combat Antibiotic Resistance?
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Synopsis
Discover an innovative approach to tackle the pressing issue of antibiotic resistance. Researchers from RGCB have found that targeting porins—vital protein channels in bacteria—can boost the efficacy of antibiotics, offering a potential solution to a major global health crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Researchers have discovered a new strategy to combat antibiotic resistance.
- Targeting porins can significantly enhance antibiotic effectiveness.
- This research was a collaborative effort across multiple prestigious institutions.
- The findings highlight the urgent need to address bacterial resistance.
- Support from government and research foundations has been crucial.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 14 (NationPress) A group of researchers from the BRIC-Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) in Thiruvananthapuram has unveiled a groundbreaking strategy to address the escalating challenge of bacterial resistance to antibiotics, which is becoming an alarming global health issue.
The team discovered that by focusing on porins, which are protein channels located in the outer membrane of harmful bacteria, the effectiveness of antibiotics can be significantly enhanced.
The results of their study were published in Small, a peer-reviewed journal specializing in nanoscience and nanotechnology, based in Weinheim, Germany. This research was a collaborative effort that included Dr. Mahendran’s lab at RGCB, Dr. Arumugam Rajavelu’s lab at IIT Madras, and Dr. Jagannath Mondal’s lab at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), located in Hyderabad.
According to RGCB Director Prof. Chandrabhas Narayana, the rising issue of bacterial resistance to antibiotics presents a significant obstacle for the medical community, particularly for pharmacologists.
“In light of this challenge, the interdisciplinary nature of our research opens up promising pathways to combat antibiotic resistance by enhancing the transport of specific antibiotics into bacterial cells,” he stated.
The study sheds light on how bacteria develop mechanisms to thwart antibiotics, one of which involves modifying porins, the protein channels that facilitate antibiotic entry into the cell. A decrease in the quantity or functionality of these channels can impede drug access, making treatments ineffective.
The researchers concentrated on CymAKp, a dynamic porin found in Klebsiella pneumoniae, which is recognized by the WHO as a high-priority pathogen. Utilizing advanced biophysical techniques and computer simulations, they revealed that CymAKp is uniquely suited to facilitate the uptake of cyclic sugars.
By investigating the interaction between antibiotics and these less-studied porins, the team has pinpointed a potential method to circumvent bacterial defenses and restore antibiotic effectiveness.
This research received support from the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India; the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) under the Department of Science and Technology; and intramural funding from RGCB.
Point of View
I acknowledge the critical importance of addressing antibiotic resistance. The collaborative research at RGCB highlights the need for innovative strategies in the fight against bacterial infections. This study not only showcases the expertise of our scientists but also emphasizes the urgency of finding effective solutions to safeguard public health.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is antibiotic resistance?
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve to resist the effects of medications that once successfully treated them, leading to treatment failures.
How does targeting porins help antibiotics?
By targeting porins, researchers can improve the entry of antibiotics into bacterial cells, enhancing their effectiveness.
What is CymAKp?
CymAKp is a dynamic porin found in Klebsiella pneumoniae, a significant pathogen recognized by the WHO.
Who conducted the research?
The research was a collaboration among scientists from RGCB, IIT Madras, and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research.
What support did the research receive?
The research was supported by the Department of Biotechnology, the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, and intramural funding from RGCB.
