Peptidomimetic antibiotics may be effective against resistant bacteria

Researchers from the University of Zurich and Spexis have developed a promising class of antibiotics to combat resistant bacteria. By modifying the chemical structure of a naturally occurring peptide called thanatin, they created antimicrobial molecules that target novel sites in the bacteria's metabolism. Gram-negative bacteria, known to be highly resistant, were a particular focus of the study. The synthetic peptides showed exceptional effectiveness in treating bacterial infections, including lung infections and carbapenem-resistant enterobacteria. The peptides were also non-toxic, stable in the blood, and demonstrated potential to combat antibiotic resistance.