AI = Smart Antibiotics

In the fight against bacterial infections artificial intelligence is proving to be a valuable resource, paving the way for new approaches in the discovery of antibiotics. A team of researchers recently used AI to identify a new class of potential antibiotics targeting Staphylococcus aureus, a notoriously resistant bacterium. Staphylococcus aureus often resists traditional antibiotic therapies due to its ability to develop resistance over time. The scientists trained a machine learning algorithm using large datasets of molecular information to identify compounds that could interfere with the bacterium's life processes. The findings led to the discovery of a new class of potential antibiotics. These compounds act in innovative ways, targeting specific vulnerabilities of the bacterium and preventing its growth. The antibiotics discovered will have to undergo rigorous clinical tests to guarantee their safety and effectiveness, but the conditions are encouraging.


Stefano Ravizza
NP January 2024