Nanocurcumin against helicobacter
Superbugs can be killed without antibiotics by natural ingredients
Svetlana Maslova, Hi-tech+
The new strategy will help solve the global problem of antibiotic resistance.
According to scientists, antimicrobial resistance may outpace cancer in mortality by 2050 if urgent measures are not taken. The tasks of the population include taking antibiotics only under the strict supervision of a doctor, while scientists need to develop alternative drugs to antibiotics.
Scientists from the UK and Germany have found that natural ingredients can cope with this task in the fight against superbugs.
The press release of A new approach for tackling superbugs is published on the website of the University of Leeds, an article by Menchicchi et al. Low-molecular-weight dextran sulfate nanocapsules inhibit the adhesion of Helicobacter pylori to gastric cells – in the journal ACS Applied Bio Materials – WM.
The team studied the pathogen Helicobacter pylori, which is the most common in the world. It is believed that about 4.4 billion people are asymptomatic carriers of a bacterium that affects the stomach and duodenum. It is known that helicobater pylori can cause chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosa, provoke ulcers, and also increase the risk of stomach cancer.
Modern therapy includes a long course of antibiotics, and this approach contributes to the emergence of resistant strains.
The new method should become an important preventive measure against Helicobacter pylori, strengthen the fight against the pathogen as a supplement to complex therapy, as well as reduce antibiotic resistance. That is, to prevent the development of superbugs in the body.
Nanocapsules developed by scientists are filled with curcumin. This natural compound contained in turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties. The capsules themselves are coated with the enzyme lysozyme, which helps prevent bacterial infections.
The team tested the effectiveness of the method on cell cultures in the laboratory and filed a patent for the technology. "Our technology opens up new opportunities for controlled targeting of Helicobacter pylori and reducing the virulence of the bacterium," the authors said.
Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru