Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) have made an important discovery about a dangerous superbug known as Acinetobacter baumannii. This germ is famous for being resistant to many antibiotics and can cause severe infections like pneumonia and bloodstream infections.
In a study published in the journal mBio, scientists explored how this superbug manages to defend itself while also attacking other bacteria. Acinetobacter baumannii has a special tool called the Type 6 Secretion System (T6SS), which it uses like a weapon against competing microbes. However, the question remained: how does this superbug control this system and still manage to resist antibiotics?
Led by Professor Ranjana Pathania, the research team found that Acinetobacter baumannii can switch the T6SS on and off depending on its surroundings. When the superbug activates this system, it also becomes more susceptible to antibiotics and stress from the body’s immune system. This means that the bacteria must be careful about when to use this “weapon” to survive in different situations.
Professor Pathania explained, “Our discovery shows how this pathogen manages to adapt during infections, helping it escape both antibiotics and the body’s defense mechanisms.” This finding is significant because understanding how the superbug operates can help scientists develop better treatment strategies.
The team of researchers included several students and professionals from IIT Roorkee who worked together to uncover this complex survival strategy of the superbug.
