New antibiotic molecule battles against resistant bacteria in major breakthrough

Researchers at McMaster University in Canada have discovered a new molecule with potent antibacterial activity, capable of combating even highly drug-resistant bacteria. 

The research team published its findings in scientific journal Nature.

The new molecule, named lariocidin, belongs to an entirely new class of antibiotics and is described as particularly promising for future pharmaceutical use. This discovery comes at a time of increasing concern about the global threat of antimicrobial resistance, underscoring the need for innovative therapeutic solutions.

According to the findings, lariocidin acts through a different mechanism than existing antibiotics, forging a major weapon in the fight against resistance. The molecule is produced by a type of bacterium called Paenibacillus, isolated from a soil sample collected at a backyard.

In addition to its effectiveness against resistant bacteria, lariocidin meets critical criteria for potential human use: it shows no toxicity to human cells, it’s not affected by existing resistance mechanisms, and is effective in an animal model of infection.

“This is a new molecule with a new mechanism of action,” said Gerry Wright, lead author of the study and professor at McMaster University. “It’s a major step forward for us,” he added.

The research team is now focusing on modifying the molecule and developing methods to produce it in large quantities, as it proceeds to the next phase of clinical development.

It’s been nearly three decades since the release of an entirely new class of antibiotics onto the global market, giving this discovery added significance.