It has now been suggested that some ant species may be sources of 'new' antibiotics to counter the development of 'superbug' bacterial strains that have developed resistance to traditional medicines (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/sep/24/ants-solution-to-antibiotic-crisis-superbug-bacteria). It seems that some ant species (notably leaf-cutters) deliberately introduce particular bacterial species to their nests. The bacteria chosen produce powerful antibiotics that deter other species of bacteria from contaminating the nest. The hope is that clinically useful antibiotics can be developed from these cultures to which the superbugs would not have developed resistance (although the chances are that they would do so at a later time?).
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Sunday 25 September 2016
Upping the Ante
It has now been suggested that some ant species may be sources of 'new' antibiotics to counter the development of 'superbug' bacterial strains that have developed resistance to traditional medicines (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/sep/24/ants-solution-to-antibiotic-crisis-superbug-bacteria). It seems that some ant species (notably leaf-cutters) deliberately introduce particular bacterial species to their nests. The bacteria chosen produce powerful antibiotics that deter other species of bacteria from contaminating the nest. The hope is that clinically useful antibiotics can be developed from these cultures to which the superbugs would not have developed resistance (although the chances are that they would do so at a later time?).
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