Cow gut enzymes can fight persistent infections: IISc study
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science have discovered that enzymes from cow gut microbes can effectively break down biofilms formed by dangerous bacteria. This discovery offers a potential new strategy for treating persistent wound infections caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
Why it matters
This breakthrough could lead to new medical treatments for drug-resistant infections, which are a growing global health crisis.
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have identified enzymes from a cow's gut that can break down the polysaccharide components of biofilms on wounds and medical surfaces, which contribute to persistent infections and delayed healing.
According to IISc, the bacterium Acinetobacter baumannii poses a substantial threat in healthcare settings forming biofilms on wounds and medical surfaces.
Biofilms are communities of bacteria encased in a matrix made up largely of polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and extracellular DNA. They form a physical barrier that reduces antimicrobial penetration and the effectiveness of host immune cells.
In the study, researchers identified specific enzymes from bovine rumen (cow gut) that can break down the polysaccharide components of these biofilms.
They used genomic data from rumen microbes to identify enzymes capable of digesting cellulose – a polysaccharide also abundant in a cow’s diet.
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