Scientists at the University of Birmingham have developed a novel genetic tool to remove antibiotic resistance genes from bacteria, paving the way for probiotic therapies that could combat superbugs.
Key Points at a Glance
- Researchers designed a new ‘curing cassette’ to displace resistance plasmids in bacteria.
- The method targets F plasmids, common carriers of antibiotic resistance in E. coli.
- The approach could lead to ingestible probiotics that eliminate resistance genes in the gut.
- Collaborations are underway to test the system in animal models and seek commercial partners.
Antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to global health, with bacteria evolving mechanisms to evade even the most potent drugs. A primary vehicle for spreading resistance genes among bacteria is plasmids—small, circular DNA strands that can transfer between cells. Addressing this challenge, researchers at the University of Birmingham have made a breakthrough in displacing these resistance-carrying plasmids from bacterial populations.
Led by Professor Chris Thomas from the School of Biosciences, the team focused on ‘plasmid curing,’ a process aimed at eliminating unwanted plasmids from bacteria. Their research centered on F plasmids, particularly prevalent in Escherichia coli, which are notorious for harboring antibiotic resistance genes. By engineering a new ‘curing cassette,’ the scientists achieved efficient displacement of these plasmids without the need for prior ‘potentiation’—a process that previously required increasing plasmid copy numbers to enhance curing efficiency.
“We have identified the part of the plasmid that is absolutely essential for it to work in plasmid displacement and built a completely new ‘curing cassette’ that does not need to be potentiated,” Professor Thomas explained.
This advancement not only simplifies the plasmid curing process but also enhances its applicability in real-world scenarios. The research team is now exploring the deployment of this system in animal models, aiming to develop probiotic treatments that can be ingested to eliminate antibiotic resistance genes directly within the gut microbiome.
Recognizing the potential impact of this technology, collaborations have been established with Harper Adams University, Surrey University Veterinary School, and the Animal and Plant Health Agency. These partnerships aim to further test the system’s efficacy and pave the way for commercial applications. The goal is to create ingestible probiotics capable of targeting and removing resistance genes from gut bacteria in both animals and humans.
As antibiotic resistance continues to rise, innovations like this offer a promising avenue to mitigate the spread of resistance genes. By harnessing the natural mechanisms of plasmid transfer and employing precise genetic tools, scientists are moving closer to sustainable solutions that can preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations.
Source: University of Birmingham
