Scientists identify correction mechanism in bacteria that helps maintain protective wall
The study, led by Dr Manjula Reddy and published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), provides new insight into how bacteria survive and how they might be better targeted by antibiotics. This could hold clues to better human health.
Bacteria have a tough outer wall made of a substance called peptidoglycan, which is essential for their protection and survival. This material is not found in humans, making it an ideal target for many antibiotics.
The research team found that while building this wall, bacteria can sometimes make mistakes by using the wrong amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, which weakens the wall and leaves the bacteria more vulnerable.
To prevent this, bacteria use a special enzyme called PgeF (Peptidoglycan Editing Factor) that spots and removes the incorrect amino acids. "Using genetics and high-resolution mass spectrometry, we showed that PgeF works like a quality control tool to ensure the wall is built properly," said Dr Shambhavi Garde.
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The study also found that a similar enzyme exists in humans, called LACC1. Problems in this human enzyme are linked to autoinflammatory disorders — conditions where the body's immune system goes into overdrive. This raises the possibility that understanding how LACC1 works could help develop treatments for these diseases and improve how our immune system responds to bacterial infections.
Reddy noted that this discovery opens up new directions in both antibiotic development and research into immune-related conditions.
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