Superbug P. aeruginosa uses two protein plugs to seal channels against antibiotics
Researchers have discovered that the superbug Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses specific protein plugs to protect its membrane channels from antibiotics. This mechanism helps the bacteria survive treatment and provides a new target for developing future antimicrobial therapies.
Why it matters
Understanding how multidrug-resistant bacteria defend themselves is critical for combating the growing global health threat of antibiotic resistance.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add to Preferred Sources Slk proteins plug the PilQ secretin lumen and align with the central gate-proximal density in situ. Credit: Nature Communications (2026). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-026-73864-w A joint research team has identified a new mechanism underlying antibiotic resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a major multidrug-resistant "superbug." The discovery provides important clues for the development of new treatments for multidrug-resistant bacterial infections. The findings are published in the journal Nature Communications .
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