Researchers at the University of Chicago and the University of California San Diego have made a groundbreaking advancement in the fight against bacterial infections. A collaborative effort between the labs of Bozhi Tian (UChicago) and Gürol Süel (UC San Diego) has led to the development of a bioelectronic device that offers a novel, drug-free way to tackle skin infections caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus epidermidis—a common pathogen responsible for hospital-acquired infections and antibiotic resistance.
The innovative device is a flexible electroceutical patch that uses gentle electrical signals to interact with specific bacteria on the skin. This patch works by targeting bacteria in the acidic environment typical of healthy skin. By stimulating the bacteria with these electrical signals, the patch can prevent the formation of harmful biofilms—clusters of bacteria that contribute to chronic infections and increase resistance to conventional treatments.
In preclinical tests, the device demonstrated promising results. It achieved nearly a tenfold reduction in bacterial colonization on pig skin, showing its potential as an effective alternative to traditional antibiotics. This breakthrough is especially critical as antibiotic-resistant infections are on the rise. Experts estimate that by 2050, drug-resistant infections could increase by 70%, making innovative solutions like this device even more crucial for public health.
Key features of the study include the targeted activation of bacterial responses only in acidic environments, reduced bacterial virulence through electrical stimulation, and the localized nature of treatment, which minimizes side effects typically associated with antibiotics. The patch works by lowering the activity of harmful genes in bacteria, significantly curbing their growth without relying on drugs.
This research not only opens new doors for treating skin infections but also holds promise for patients with chronic wounds or medical implants, who are particularly vulnerable to infection.
Article written by Freya Allen
29/10/2024
Source:
The microbiologists