Two new genes discovered that helps bacteria to resist antibacterial treatment: Study
Researchers have discovered two genes that make some strains of harmful bacteria resistant to treatment by copper, which is a powerful and frequently used antibacterial agent, says a new study. The discovery showed that Staphyloccocus aureus bacteria, which is highly resistant to antibiotics, can acquire additional genes that promote infections and antibacterial resistance and may open new paths for the development of antibacterial drugs.
The study, conducted by the Rutgers University in the US, showed the two genes, named copB and copL, in some strains of S. aureus bacteria protect the germs from copper. The genes may promote the survival of S. aureus in settings, such as in hospitals, that could lead to infections or they may lead to S. aureus strains with higher copper resistance.
Recently, hospitals began using it against bacteria found on medical instruments and other surfaces. It has also been used for thousands of years to sterilise wounds and drinking water. But the two newly discovered genes encode proteins that help remove copper from S. aureus cells and prevent it from entering.
The findings, published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, revealed that some strains of S. aureus have newly acquired genes embedded in their genome in pieces of DNA called transposons. Transposons aid in the spread of genes that can give rise to bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics and more likely to cause disease. The newly discovered genes are encoded within a transposon, said the study.
(With inputs from agencies.)
- READ MORE ON:
- agent
- Researchers
- hospitals
- instruments
- thousands
- Rutgers University
- copL
- antibiotics
ALSO READ
Thousands of Russian soldiers are fleeing the war in Ukraine but have nowhere to go
Families and thousands gather to mourn tragic loss in J-K boat capsize incident
Rukuna Rath Yatra: Thousands brave scorching heat to pull chariot of Lord Lingaraj in Odisha
Homes are demolished in Ivory Coast's main city over alleged health concerns. Thousands are homeless
Thousands of followers, political leaders pay tribute to Ambedkar in Maharashtra