Scientists discover the new feature of the immune system with antibiotic capabilities

One study revealed a hidden feature of the immune system that could pave the way for new antibiotics to cope with the growing superbugs threat.

Published in the journal Nature, the study focuses on the protection, a tiny structure found in each cell, traditionally known for the recycling of protein. However, scientists have discovered that the protection also plays a key role in defending bacterial infections by creating chemicals that can kill bacteria.

The study, led by researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Sciences, shows that when a cell detects bacterial infection, the protection changes its structure. Instead of disrupting the protein, it converts them into antimicrobial agents that can pierce the outer layer of bacteria and destroy them.

“This is really exciting because we had no idea that this was happening,” said Professor Yifat Merbl of the Weizmann Institute. “It reveals a new mechanism of immunity, providing us with a new line of defense against bacterial infections.”

The discovery could be vital in the ongoing battle against antibiotic resistance, which claims life more than a million people per year. Superbugs or bacteria that are resistant to current antibiotics have become an emergency worldwide concern for health and need new sources of antibiotics.

Scientists examined the antimicrobial properties of protection by -products in laboratory growing bacteria and animal models, including pneumonia and sepsis mice. The results showed that these natural antibiotics were just as effective as some of the conventional drugs already used.

Dr. Lindsey Edwards, a senior microbiology lecturer in King’s College, London, called the findings as a “possible gold mine” for the development of new antibiotics. He added: “In the past, we have examined ground samples for antibiotics, so it is noteworthy that this is in our own body.”

Researchers point out that while discovery has a huge promise, more work is needed to translate these findings into practical antibiotic treatments. However, the new protection function represents a potential turning point in the fight against drug -resistant infections.