A digitally colorized micrograph image of E. coliWIKIMEDIA COMMONS, MATTOSAURUS
Using whole-genome sequencing to track the evolution of bacteria as they are exposed to ever-increasing levels of antibiotics, researchers have identified some consistent—and potentially practicable—genetic mutations, pointing to new possibilities for conquering resistant bugs, according to a study published in today’s (December 18) Nature Genetics. And a second study in the journal, also using whole-genome sequencing, examines how drug-resistant bacteria continue to evolve after antibiotic treatment stops, which may have implications for overall resistance management.
“Both of these studies are fine examples of the utility of whole genome sequencing to test, as well as generate, hypotheses,” Bruce Levin of Emory University in Atlanta and his PhD student Pierre Ankomah said in an email. “They both address important questions about antibiotic resistance.”
Antibiotic resistance is a ...
