AI Uncovers Antibiotic Leads in Prion Proteins
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania used AI to identify 'prionins,' a new class of antimicrobial peptides hidden within prion proteins. This discovery suggests that proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases may possess innate immune defense properties.
Why it matters
This breakthrough provides a novel pathway for developing new antibiotics to combat the growing global crisis of drug-resistant bacteria.
PHILADELPHIA - New antibiotic candidates for drug-resistant bacteria may reside inside prions, mis-folded protein in the brain best known for rare and fatal degenerative brain diseases. Prion and prion-like proteins may hide short peptides, named "prionins," that can kill bacteria, suggesting proteins best known for their role in neurodegeneration may contain molecular features linked to immune defense, according to new research from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.
The report is a scientific summary based on published research findings.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in