Bacteria alter ribosomes to resist antibiotics, study finds

Bacteria can change their ribosomes when exposed to antibiotics, according to a study published in Nature Communications. These changes may help bacteria resist drugs by altering the binding sites of antibiotics like streptomycin and kasugamycin. Researchers found that Escherichia coli modifies its ribosomes in response to these antibiotics, losing specific chemical tags that are crucial for drug binding. This adaptation allows the bacteria to evade the effects of the drugs more effectively. The study utilized advanced nanopore sequencing technology to observe these modifications in their natural state. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind these changes and to develop new strategies against antibiotic resistance.