Malacidin

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Malacidin

Malacidin is a class of antibiotics discovered by researchers from the Rockefeller University. The term "Malacidin" is an acronym for metagenomic acidic lipopeptide antibiotic-cidins. Malacidins are notable for their ability to kill bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Discovery

Malacidins were discovered through a method called metagenomics, which involves extracting and sequencing DNA from soil samples. This method allows researchers to analyze the genetic material of all the microbes in a sample, without the need to grow them in a lab. The discovery of Malacidins was announced in 2018.

Mechanism of Action

Malacidins work by interfering with the bacteria's ability to build its cell wall. They bind to a molecule called lipid II, which is a crucial component of the bacterial cell wall. This binding prevents the bacteria from properly constructing its cell wall, leading to its death.

Potential Uses

Due to their ability to kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria, Malacidins have potential use in the treatment of infectious diseases. However, as of now, they have only been tested in mice and it is not yet known if they will be effective in humans.

Research

Research on Malacidins is ongoing. Scientists are currently working on understanding more about how these antibiotics work and how they can be used in medicine.

See Also

• Antibiotic resistance
• Metagenomics
• Lipid II