Scientists have found new mutations associated with antibiotic resistance

According to UPI.com, US scientists have grown hundreds of Mycobacterium smegmatis cultures which are similar to the bacterium causing tuberculosis. Bacteria were exposed to low concentrations of antibiotics that act slowly. The scientists monitored the death of bacteria and isolated the bays with microorganisms mutated.

The researchers have found that resistance to different classes of antibiotics in bacteria appeared due to ribosomal mutations. Also, these mutations increased resistance to thermal shock and membrane voltage.

By the way, repeated antibiotic treatment not only makes the bacteria resistant to drugs, but also helps them to reproduce faster than before. This fact was established by the scientists of the Exeter University. The researchers emphasize that doctors should try to find right antibiotics for their patients as soon as possible.

Source: UPI.com.