Byte-Sized Research: The Beginning of The End?

On November 26, 2025, scientists published findings that show antibiotic-resistant bacteria could be killed with high success rates. They introduced a therapy in mice and human lung tissue to find that it slowed bacterial growth, which is near impossible if the bacteria is resistant to the regular antibiotic treatment. Although medicines are advancing at a breakneck speed, bacteria are also advancing along with us.

Bacteria have short life cycles, allowing mutated bacteria with resistance to quickly grow and reproduce. They are also able to share DNA with each other, which only quickens the rate at which they become resistant to antibiotics. Resistance is a growing issue within the medical community.

Scientists have approached fighting resistant bacteria in a way different from previous methods of developing new antibiotics. They have chosen to support the immune system itself by injecting mRNA (a DNA copy that delivers instructions) that tells the cell to make a special bacteria-fighting protein. Xue et. al found that mice received the treatment well and saw positive benefits (less inflammation and less bacteria). Though the research is in its early stages, scientists hope to move on to use human trials in order to evaluate its safety and necessary dosages.

Thank you for reading and see you next week.