Scientists have developed a genome-scale metabolic model or 'subway map' of key metabolic activities of the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. Using this map, they have successfully identified two compounds that selectively target routes only used by Lyme disease to infect a host.
Scientists at Tufts University School of Medicine have developed a genome-scale metabolic model or"subway map" of key metabolic activities of the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. Using this map, they have successfully identified two compounds that selectively target routes only used by Lyme disease to infect a host.
The two compounds identified using the"subway map" computational model are an anticancer drug with significant side effects that make it impractical to use in treating Lyme, and an asthma medication taken off the market because of its side effects. Both drugs identified by the model were tested in the lab and found to successfully kill Lyme bacteria -- and only Lyme -- in culture.
Gwynne says similar computational"subway maps" can be developed for other bacteria with relatively small genomes, such as those that cause the sexually transmitted diseases Syphilis and Chlamydia, and Rickettsia, which causes Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Gwynne's team is looking at developing maps for some of these bacteria.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Cavs rookie Emoni Bates has new role, new perspective and a new nicknameThrough the first three preseason games, the 19-year-old Bates is averaging 12.7 points on 14 of 27 (51.9%) from the field and 9 of 20 (45%) from 3-point range. He has reached double figures in all three games and is the team’s preseason scoring leader.
Read more »
New patterns in sun's layers could help scientists solve solar mysteryAstronomers are one step closer to understanding one of the most enduring solar mysteries, having captured unprecedented data from the sun's magnetic field.
Read more »
Scientists uncover new way viruses fight back against bacteriaA microscopic discovery will not only enable scientists to understand the microbial world around us but could also provide a new way to control CRISPR-Cas biotechnologies.
Read more »
Scientists uncover new way viruses fight back against bacteriaA microscopic discovery will not only enable scientists to understand the microbial world around us but could also provide a new way to control CRISPR-Cas biotechnologies.
Read more »
In an ancient hot spring haunt of Inca rulers, scientists discover a new freshwater shrimp speciesIn an ancient hot spring haunt of Incan rulers, researchers discovered a new species of tiny, shrimp-like scavengers known as amphipods thriving at record temperatures that can cook other crustaceans to death.
Read more »
Scientists discover new jet stream in Jupiter's atmosphere using Webb TelescopeJack Birle is a breaking news reporter for the Washington Examiner. A 2022 graduate of Villanova University with majors in communication and political science, he has previous journalism experience with the Center Square and as a fellow with the National Journalism Center. He was born in Pennsylvania and grew up in Southern California.
Read more »