Resurrecting the intestinal microbiota to combat antibiotic-resistant pathogens Journal Article


Author: Pamer, E. G.
Article Title: Resurrecting the intestinal microbiota to combat antibiotic-resistant pathogens
Abstract: The intestinal microbiota, which is composed of diverse populations of commensal bacterial species, provides resistance against colonization and invasion by pathogens. Antibiotic treatment can damage the intestinal microbiota and, paradoxically, increase susceptibility to infections. Reestablishing microbiota-mediated colonization resistance after antibiotic treatment could markedly reduce infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Ongoing studies are identifying commensal bacterial species that can be developed into next-generation probiotics to reestablish or enhance colonization resistance. These live medicines are at various stages of discovery, testing, and production and are being subjected to existing regulatory gauntlets for eventual introduction into clinical practice. The development of next-generation probiotics to reestablish colonization resistance and eliminate potential pathogens from the gut is warranted and will reduce health care-associated infections caused by highly antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Copyright 2016 by the American Association for the Advancement of Science; all rights reserved.
Keywords: bacteria (microorganisms)
Journal Title: Science
Volume: 352
Issue: 6285
ISSN: 0036-8075
Publisher: American Association for the Advancement of Science  
Date Published: 2016-04-29
Start Page: 535
End Page: 538
Language: English
DOI: 10.1126/science.aad9382
PROVIDER: scopus
PUBMED: 27126035
PMCID: PMC4984266
DOI/URL:
Notes: Review -- Export Date: 2 June 2016 -- Source: Scopus
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  1. Eric Pamer
    283 Pamer