Chemical key unlocks antibiotics

Researchers from the Chemistry Department at the University of Warwick have discovered a novel signalling molecule, which could unlock hundreds of new antibiotics from the DNA of the Streptomyces family of bacteria.

Researchers have found a highly stable group of compounds that might enable the production of at least one new antibiotic compound from up to 50 percent of the Streptomyces family of bacteria.

The colonies of bacteria produce antibiotics naturally when under stress. Natural antibiotic weapons are produced once the bacteria create a compound that acts as a signal across the colonies. Researchers based their studies on the signalling material, which they then analysed with the help of the University’s 700 MHz NMR machine.

The team’s findings represent a major step towards the production of more efficient antibiotic drugs.