New Antibiotic Targets Only Harmful Microbes

Antibiotics non-selectively destroy both harmful and beneficial gut bacteria, but there is now potential to preserve the good.
New Antibiotic Targets Only Harmful Microbes
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Researchers believe they have created a new kind of compound, an antibiotic that kills only the worst microbes, without producing dangerous side effects.

Scientists at the University of Illinois took on the challenge of developing an antibiotic that kills gram-negative bacteria, which are often resistant to antibiotics, without destroying microbes necessary for good health. If bacteria do not develop resistance to this drug, it could be a significant breakthrough in treating infections for years to come.

Huey Freeman
Huey Freeman
Author
A newspaper reporter, editor, and author, Huey Freeman recently wrote “Who Shot Nick Ivie?” a true crime book on the murder of a border patrol agent. He lives in Central Illinois with his wife Kate.
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