UVA School of Medicine researchers created computer models that could target antibiotic resistance, according to a release.
The researchers began their study by developing “sophisticated computer models of every human bacterial pathogen with sufficient genetic information available.” After an analysis, they found common characteristics of the bacteria. “This analysis yielded the discovery that bacteria in certain parts of the body, such as the stomach, tended to share metabolic properties. Basically, where they live shapes how they function.”
UVA says the models could advance precision medicine and reduce the risk of bacteria becoming resistant to drugs. The models work by restricting the amount of time antibiotics are around the bacteria.
Additionally, the computer models “could give the disease-fighting drugs a laser-like precision to target only specific bacteria in specific parts of the body.”
Study findings were published in PLOS Biology.
