How Worms Can Lead The Future Of Antibiotics

The overconsumption of antibiotics has lead to severe consequences for mankind. Bacteria are evolving and are becoming resistant to antibiotics. Antibiotic resistant super bugs have begun to appear in different parts of the world as a result of the overuse of antibiotics. However, scientists have possibly discovered a newer, more effective type of antibiotic. Board-certified general surgeon Dr. Allen Kamrava discusses the discovery.

Why Are Antibiotics Less Effective Nowadays?

Deadly bacteria evolve quickly and have become resistant to most if not all known antibiotics. Antibiotics also attack bacteria indiscriminately, making them deadly to pathogens as well as the healthy bacteria that naturally inhabit our bodies. These natural bacteria are essential to the human immune system, and the overuse of antibiotics threatens their development. Antibiotics also threaten the health of the kidneys. Though cases of antibiotic resistant superbugs are rare, the more we abuse antibiotics, the more frequent the outbreaks of antibiotic resistant bugs will become.

How Can Cotton Worms Lead To Antibiotic Treatments?

Recently, researchers have discovered a bacterium that may lead to the creation of a newer, more effective strain of antibiotics. Scientists have found a new strain of bacteria inside the guts of cotton leaf worms, known as E. muddtii, that specializes in eradicating deadly bacteria that enter the body of the cotton leaf worms. The bacteria provide a natural defense against deadly bacteria inside the cotton leaf worm’s gut without posing a threat to the other bacteria in the gut. When foreign bacteria enter the cotton leaf worm, the E. muddtii bacteria will excrete a toxin that will kill the invading bacteria.

What Does This Mean For The Future?

Researchers believe they can use this bacterium to develop an antibiotic that can mimic the traits of the bacteria when ingested. Researchers hope to begin testing the bacteria on common bacteria that cause disease in humans such as streptococcus. Scientists believe this bacterium, if effectively converted into an antibiotic, could provide a novel and effective solution to antibiotic resistant super bugs.

About Dr. Allen Kamrava

Top-rated Los Angeles hemorrhoid specialist and board-certified colorectal surgeon, Dr. Allen Kamrava uses breakthrough medical innovations and clinical research to treat hemorrhoids, colon cancer, and other colorectal conditions. For more information about Dr. Kamrava, contact him by phone at 424.279.8222 or visit his website at colorectalmd.com