Scientists Unveil Enzyme-Based Antibiotic

Scientists from Rockefeller University have discovered an enzyme that is capable of destroying millions of bacteria within seconds. Tests on the enzyme, which comes from bacteriophage or phage viruses that attack and kill bacteria, have shown that it is effective against both normal and penicillin-resistant strains of streptococcus pneumonia, a bacterium naturally present on mucous membranes in the nose and throat. The researchers behind the discovery say that a nasal spray of the enzyme would be able to wipe out bacteria before they get the chance to infect the body. Whereas present day antibiotics are only effective once a patient is in the throes of infection. The team are currently planning human clinical trials of the spray to prevent Group A streptococci, which causes strep throat and flesh eating disease.

SOURCE/REFERENCE: Reported by www.bcc.co.uk on the 7th December 2001