The new antibiotic, an unknown future
2006/06/01 Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria
Merck research laboratories have discovered a new antibiotic, the first of the last twenty years. It is called Platensimicine and kills several bacteria from hospitals resistant to other antibiotics, such as Staphylococcus aureus.
The strategy used to kill bacteria is different from that of other antibiotics. Platensimycin interferes with an enzyme (FabF) of the bacteria, which participates in the production of fatty acids, preventing the formation of membranes formed by fats.
The antibiotic is effective against bacteria, but there is still a lot to reach the market. The truth is that it is about to see if it will reach the market. Merck will have to make a big investment. Clinical tests are expensive and last a lot. And, despite having passed all the tests, it is possible that the bacteria develop their resistance to little marketing the antibiotic and that the antibiotic loses effectiveness. Therefore, they would have no benefits. There are many obstacles.
But, despite the obstacles, Merck researchers have said they intend to move forward.
