In 2003 scientists discovered pathogens on a Stone Age cave painting in Italy. After further research they found out that these pathogens could lead to a new type of super-antibiotics (see reference below). According to reports, the ancient bacteria can produce the antibiotics "Cervimycin". This antibiotic will kill methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and other resistant bacteria.
Current research shows that when they suppressed the "CerJ" enzyme the bacteria produces even stronger antibiotics called "Cervimycin K".
Acccording to research team leader Christian Hurt Wake further study is necessary as this Cercimycin K still cannot be produced synthetically. The team is now looking at biotechnological alternatives. It may take up to 20 years before the new substance is fully tested and becomes available on the market.
Related research:
Cervimycin A–D: A Polyketide Glycoside Complex from a Cave Bacterium Can Defeat Vancomycin Resistance; Kerstin Herold Dr., Friedrich A. Gollmick Dr., Ingrid Groth Dr., Martin Roth Dr., Klaus-Dieter Menzel, Ute Möllmann Dr., Udo Gräfe Prof. Dr., Christian Hertweck Dr.; Chemistry - A European Journal Volume 11, Issue 19, pages 5523–5530, September 19, 2005; DOI: 10.1002/chem.200500320
Acccording to research team leader Christian Hurt Wake further study is necessary as this Cercimycin K still cannot be produced synthetically. The team is now looking at biotechnological alternatives. It may take up to 20 years before the new substance is fully tested and becomes available on the market.
Related research:
Cervimycin A–D: A Polyketide Glycoside Complex from a Cave Bacterium Can Defeat Vancomycin Resistance; Kerstin Herold Dr., Friedrich A. Gollmick Dr., Ingrid Groth Dr., Martin Roth Dr., Klaus-Dieter Menzel, Ute Möllmann Dr., Udo Gräfe Prof. Dr., Christian Hertweck Dr.; Chemistry - A European Journal Volume 11, Issue 19, pages 5523–5530, September 19, 2005; DOI: 10.1002/chem.200500320