Scientist María Soledad Ramírez and her students are working to develop treatments to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Their latest work has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Scientific Reports.
Cal State Fullerton professor of biological science and antibiotic-resistance researcher María Soledad Ramírez and her collaborators have discovered a promising treatment against infections caused by superbugs, or antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Superbugs are an overlooked and growing global health crisis that the World Health Organization refers to as the “silent pandemic.” The persistent bugs can cause illnesses and harm people with weakened immune systems getting treated in hospitals and other health care settings. Each year, more than 2.8 million antimicrobial-
In a study published in the peer-reviewed journal Scientific Reports, Ramírez and her team found that Acinetobacter baumannii, a multidrug-resistant bacteria that can cause serious infections in the urinary tract, wounds, blood, and lungs, could potentially be treated with a probiotic strain or lactic acid bacteria. Ramirez’s study proved a probiotic strain stopped A. baumannii from growing and even killed the bacteria.
“These findings could lead to the development of a new alternative to treat these infections, either on its own or alongside other treatments,” says Ramirez. “Our latest work is an exciting step in the right direction. However, we need to explore these findings further to make this a real option for treating antibiotic-resistant infections.”
The Centers for Disease Control Prevention has listed A. baumannii as an urgent public health threat in United States health care facilities. In 2017, antibiotic-resistant bacteria caused an estimated 8,500 infections in hospitalized patients and 700 estimated deaths in the United States.
About Cal State Fullerton
The largest university in the CSU and the only campus in Orange County, Cal State Fullerton offers more than 100 degree programs and Division 1 athletics. Recognized as a national model for supporting student success, CSUF excels with innovative, high-impact educational practices, including faculty-student collaborative research, study abroad and competitive internships. CSUF is a top public university known for its success in supporting first-generation and underrepresented students, and preparing all students to become leaders in the global marketplace. Our vibrant and diverse campus is a primary driver of workforce and economic development in the region. Visit fullerton.edu.
# # #
RSS