Researchers Accidentally Create Strain-specific Antibiotic

[jayfish]

http://arstechnica.com/science/news/2010/02/researchers-accidentally-create-strain-specific-antibiotic.ars

The group started with a peptide-based antibiotic called protegrin I, which acts against a broad range of bacteria by inserting into their membranes and opening holes in them. Unfortunately, it also does has the same effect (although at lower levels) on red blood cells. So, the researchers performed iterative rounds producing and testing variants for antibiotic activity. What they came up with is something else entirely.

I just love accidental discoveries. It helps me to believe that anything is possible.

Jay

[meowomon]

1. Awsome!

As a nurse and an infrequent consumer of antibiotics, I am thrilled!

[dkf]

2. Which is why just mucking around is important.

The more research we do the more we can discover. It's the one area I wIsh we put money into.

[aquart]

3. That is so neat.