By Andi Anderson
Researchers at Michigan State University (MSU) have discovered a promising new method to combat the spread of antibiotic resistance, a growing threat in modern medicine. By deploying "DNA scavengers" in wastewater treatment plants, the team believes they can prevent antibiotic-resistant DNA from being picked up by bacteria, which would otherwise make them resistant to treatment.
Led by Syed Hashsham, a professor of civil and environmental engineering, and James Tiedje, University Distinguished Professor Emeritus, the research focuses on an enzyme that breaks down strands of antibiotic-resistant DNA found in wastewater.
This DNA, if left unchecked, can be absorbed by bacteria, making them resistant to antibiotics and harder to treat.
Published in Nature Water on August 19, the study highlights the potential of this enzyme as an environmentally friendly tool to control the spread of antibiotic resistance in wastewater. “This technology could help preserve the effectiveness of current antibiotics,” said Hashsham.
Antibiotic resistance has been a challenge since the discovery of penicillin, exacerbated by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics. As bacteria evolve and adapt, new antibiotics become less effective over time.
Wastewater treatment plants are a critical point where antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genetic material converge, making them a focal area for researchers.
To address this, the MSU team developed an enzyme called a nuclease, which acts as a “DNA scavenger” by cutting the antibiotic-resistant genetic material into pieces, rendering it harmless.
The researchers introduced the enzyme to wastewater samples, where it successfully destroyed almost all targeted genetic elements within four hours and completely inactivated them within six hours.
“This is really a very novel technique,” said Hashsham, who emphasized the need for further research to optimize the technology and ensure it integrates well with existing wastewater treatment processes.
The study also opens the door for the DNA scavenger enzyme to be considered as a potential alternative to traditional disinfectants like chlorine in wastewater treatment.
Although Hashsham cautions that more research is needed before such a recommendation can be made, the findings represent a significant step forward in the fight against antibiotic resistance.
Moving forward, the MSU team plans to continue testing the enzyme's effectiveness on other types of antibiotic-resistant DNA and exploring its broader applications in public health.
If successful, this technique could become a powerful tool in safeguarding the effectiveness of antibiotics and protecting public health.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Education