Treatment with "Living Medicine" Successfully Treats Infections Acquired in Hospitals

Key Takeaways
Antibiotic resistant infections are a major concern.
Living medicine may be the solution.
Biofilms make bacteria resistant to antibiotics.
Genetically modified bacteria dissolve biofilms.
Experimental treatment healed 82% of mice.
Bacteria can be used for targeted therapy.
Human clinical trials expected in 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
References

Overview

Antibiotic resistant infections pose a significant threat, as the majority of infections acquired in hospitals are resistant to antibiotics. Bacteria often develop biofilms on medical devices, making them difficult to eliminate. The increase in hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) to 1.7 million annually, resulting in 99,000 deaths, requires immediate solutions. Some researchers suggest that the solution may lie in "living medicine" rather than the development of new antibiotics. Biofilms, similar to dental plaque, consist of bacterial colonies held together by sugary strands outside their cell walls. This structure allows them to evade the immune system and withstand antibiotic treatment, particularly endangering patients with implants in hospital environments. Scientists at The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology propose using genetically engineered bacteria to disrupt biofilms. By altering a bacterial species to produce enzymes that break down biofilms, they achieved an 82% success rate in curing mice infected with catheters. The team intends to commence human clinical trials in 2023 to further investigate this novel treatment approach.

References

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6 Possible Causes of Brain Fog.

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Brain Fog After Eating? These are the Worst Culprits.

How Your Diet Influences Brain Fog.

Brain Fog. Cleveland Clinic.

To Prevent Brain Fog at Work, Watch Wat (And How) You Eat.

Feeling Foggy? Here's How Nutrition Can Help.

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Susan Parker

Susan Parker is a 49-year-old Senior Manager at a marketing firm. With two older children becoming more independent, she is now focusing on her own health and wellbeing. She’s passionate about natural and holistic health approaches, and values high-quality, trustworthy products. Susan enjoys yoga, gardening, reading, and cooking, and seeks to stay energetic and sharp while balancing a busy career and personal life.

Treatment with "Living Medicine" Successfully Treats Infections Acquired in Hospitals

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Overview

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Susan Parker