Antibiotic-resistant infections continue to pose a significant threat, but recent breakthroughs offer hope in the fight against these bacteria. Researchers from UiT, The Arctic University of Norway, and Ludwig Maximilian University in Germany have developed a potential vaccine against antibiotic-resistant enterococci, a common bacteria known for its resistance to traditional antibiotics. The vaccine, created using membrane vesicles secreted by the bacteria, has shown promising results in animal models by boosting the immune system and killing antibiotic-resistant enterococci. Clinical trials in humans are expected to begin within the next 12 to 18 months. This development is a significant step forward in addressing the challenges posed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria [1b2d37d8].
In addition to the potential vaccine for enterococci, scientists at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital have made a revolutionary breakthrough in the development of antibiotics. They have created a new version of the antibiotic spectinomycin, called eAmSPCs, which is up to 64 times more potent against the antibiotic-resistant bacterium Mycobacterium abscessus (Mab). The eAmSPCs have overcome the resistance mechanism called efflux and have shown a synergistic effect with other anti-Mab antibiotics. They also retain their activity against clinical isolates and other strains of mycobacteria. The eAmSPCs have shown promising pharmacokinetic profiles and efficacy in Mab murine infection models, making them potential treatments for Mab and other non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections. This research has been supported by organizations such as the National Institutes of Health and the Swiss National Science Foundation [9ccbcb32].
Israeli researchers have developed an algorithm called CUMAb that streamlines the humanization of antibodies, potentially revolutionizing the development of antibody-based drugs. The algorithm generates 20,000 humanized variants of a single mouse antibody, selecting the most promising ones for experimental testing. The humanized antibodies functioned just as effectively as the original mouse antibodies. The breakthrough has the potential to accelerate the design of antibody-based drugs and reduce development costs. The algorithm is accessible online to academic researchers [b5a4622a].
Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have identified a new approach to controlling bacterial infections. They have discovered a defense system called cyclic oligonucleotide-based antiphage signaling system (CBASS) that can be activated to fight and manage bacterial infections. The team found that a protein called Cap5, activated by cyclic nucleotides, can destroy the bacterial cell's own DNA. The researchers plan to explore how their discoveries apply to other types of bacteria and assess whether their method can be used to manage infections caused by various harmful bacteria [deadc8a9].
Scientists from the University of California-Riverside have discovered that the fluid-filled sac surrounding the lungs contains virus-fighting cells called macrophages that play a crucial role during flu infections. These macrophages move from the pleural cavity into the lungs during an influenza infection, reducing inflammation and disease levels. The researchers used genetic data from flu-infected mice to identify the presence of these cells and are now aiming to identify specific proteins that direct macrophages to the lungs, which could lead to the development of drugs that enhance the quantity or activity of these cells. This approach offers a promising alternative to traditional antivirals, which are facing increasing drug resistance [35693528].
University of Queensland researchers have made a breakthrough discovery in the field of cystic fibrosis (CF) research. They have found a fault in the bacteria-killing function of immune cells called macrophages in people with CF. These macrophages are defective in a zinc pathway that the body uses to kill bacteria. However, the researchers have identified a zinc transport protein that can restore the macrophages' ability to kill bacteria even when the CFTR protein is not working. The goal now is to deliver this zinc transport protein to macrophages in people with CF to reactivate their immune response and reduce infections. This discovery offers hope for reducing infections in cystic fibrosis patients, as current treatments for CF can restore many aspects of CFTR function but do not resolve or prevent lung infections [9a1f4dac].
Barney Graham, an immunologist and virologist, has been recognized for his breakthrough in the development of the world's first vaccines for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). His work focused on identifying and targeting the F protein on the virus's surface, paving the way for effective RSV vaccines. This discovery has also influenced the development of spike protein targets used in COVID-19 vaccines. The approval and introduction of these vaccines have significant implications for public health, particularly for infants and the elderly. Graham's work extends beyond the laboratory and serves as a beacon of hope for families worldwide. His recognition on the 2024 #STATUSList is a celebration of collaboration and the power of innovative thinking in vaccine development. The path to these RSV vaccines was a journey of hope, perseverance, and the belief in creating a healthier future for all.
In a blow to British pharmaceutical company GSK, the British Government has decided to purchase Pfizer's RSV vaccine instead. Pfizer's Abrysvo vaccine, which counters the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), will supply 4.9 million doses to the UK. The decision was made after a competitive tender process, with Pfizer winning due to its vaccine's approval for both the elderly and pregnant women, two groups the government aims to target. GSK's rival vaccine, Arexvy, is only approved for older people [083e41e7].