Researchers at the American University of Northeastern say they have found a new treatment for Lyme disease. It is an antimicrobial called hygromycin A. In addition to treating the infection and preventing progression to chronic forms of the disease, this antimicrobial is also believed to be able to eradicate the disease at its source.
Treatment that could cure the infection and prevent chronic forms of the disease
Researchers at the American University of Northeastern in Boston reveal that they have found a new treatment that could prevent progression to chronic forms of Lyme disease. By screening soil microorganisms, the researchers discovered hygromycin A, an antimicrobial that has been shown to be active against spirochetes and in particular Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease.
Already discovered in 1953, this antimicrobial had been abandoned because of its ineffectiveness against many bacteria. According to Kim Lewis, lead author of the study, the results of which were published in the journal Cell: “ Nobody was interested in it because its effectiveness against bacteria in general is quite low. But on the other hand, we have found that it has exceptional efficacy against spirochetes “. The (re) discovery of this antimicrobial therefore gives a glimmer of hope for all those affected by Lyme disease. Especially since unlike other antibiotics, hygromycin A would not cause any adverse effects and would not damage the intestinal microbiota.
An antimicrobial that could suppress Lyme disease at the source
Beyond a possible treatment for Lyme disease, this discovery could also eradicate the bacteria at the source. Indeed, scientists explain that by depositing baits containing hygromycin in areas where ticks live, we could eradicate the bacteria by attacking its environment, without harmful effects on flora and fauna. ” Lyme disease is on the rise and in many places limits our ability to enjoy outdoor activities. Explain the researchers. That is why “ a permanent solution is therefore to eradicate the very source of the disease »They conclude. In the meantime, the first field trials will take place next summer and scientists plan to expand their investigations to include syphilis.
