Latest news with #Pseudomonasaeruginosa
Yahoo
25-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Superbug That Can Feed on Plastic Is Spreading in Hospitals
A nasty bacterial superbug that kills hundreds of thousands of people per year is spreading through hospitals — and it feeds on something surprising, scientists have now found. Researchers from the Brunel University of London have found, per a new study in the journal Cell, that the bacterial Pseudomonas aeruginosa appears to "digest" medical plastic. Associated with more than 559,000 deaths globally per year, this drug-resistant bug is, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, believed to cause other illnesses like pneumonia or urinary tract infections. People often seem to develop it after surgery, but until this study, researchers weren't aware that it might be living or feeding on medical plastics. By analyzing a strain of the bacteria taken from a patient's wound swab, the microbial researchers found that P. aeruginosa seems specifically to survive longer on polycaprolactone, a plastic used in all kinds of medical interventions ranging from sutures, stints, and surgical mesh to wound dressings, drug-delivery patches, and implants. In Brunel University's press release about the "world-first" research, study leader Ronan McCarthy said this finding suggests that medical professionals should rethink how bugs spread throughout hospitals and other healthcare settings. "Plastics, including plastic surfaces, could potentially be food for these bacteria," McCarthy said. "Pathogens with this ability could survive for longer in the hospital environment." The study also, as the professor noted, "means that any medical device or treatment that contains plastic" — including the ventilators some pneumonia patients need and catheters necessary for UTIs — "could be susceptible to degradation by bacteria." Beyond its ability to break down such important medical tools, the researchers also found that the enzyme they isolated appears to grow stronger biofilms, or outer layers that help bacteria resist antibiotics and make them harder to treat, after digesting plastic. Though there will obviously need to be more study to figure out how best to head off this plastic-eating menace, there's a 200-year history of pathogenic adaptation behind P. aeruginosa that suggests it may eventually circumvent any such measures. Still, McCarthy pointed out that scientists "need to understand the impact this has on patient safety." "Plastic is everywhere in modern medicine," he said, "and it turns out some pathogens have adapted to degrade it." More on bacteria: Mysterious Bacteria Not Found on Earth Are Growing on China's Space Station
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
We found a germ that ‘feeds' on hospital plastic
Plastic pollution is one of the defining environmental challenges of our time – and some of nature's tiniest organisms may offer a surprising way out. In recent years, microbiologists have discovered bacteria capable of breaking down various types of plastic, hinting at a more sustainable path forward. These 'plastic-eating' microbes could one day help shrink the mountains of waste clogging landfills and oceans. But they are not always a perfect fix. In the wrong environment, they could cause serious problems. Plastics are widely used in hospitals in things such as sutures (especially the dissolving type), wound dressings and implants. So might the bacteria found in hospitals break down and feed on plastic? Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK's latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences. To find out, we studied the genomes of known hospital pathogens (harmful bacteria) to see if they had the same plastic-degrading enzymes found in some bacteria in the environment. We were surprised to find that some hospital germs, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, might be able to break down plastic. P aeruginosa is associated with about 559,000 deaths globally each year. And many of the infections are picked up in hospitals. Patients on ventilators or with open wounds from surgery or burns are at particular risk of a P aeruginosa infection. As are those who have catheters. We decided to move forward from our computational search of bacterial databases to test the plastic-eating ability of P aeruginosa in the laboratory. We focused on one specific strain of this bacterium that had a gene for making a plastic-eating enzyme. It had been isolated from a patient with a wound infection. We discovered that not only could it break down plastic, it could use the plastic as food to grow. This ability comes from an enzyme we named Pap1. P aeruginosa is considered a high-priority pathogen by the World Health Organization. It can form tough layers called biofilms that protect it from the immune system and antibiotics, which makes it very hard to treat. Our group has previously shown that when environmental bacteria form biofilms, they can break down plastic faster. So we wondered whether having a plastic-degrading enzyme might help P aeruginosa to be a pathogen. Strikingly, it does. This enzyme made the strain more harmful and helped it build bigger biofilms. To understand how P aeruginosa was building a bigger biofilm when it was on plastic, we broke the biofilm apart. Then we analysed what the biofilm was made of and found that this pathogen was producing bigger biofilms by including the degraded plastic in this slimy shield – or 'matrix', as it is formally known. P aeruginosa was using the plastic as cement to build a stronger bacterial community. Pathogens like P aeruginosa can survive for a long time in hospitals, where plastics are everywhere. Could this persistence in hospitals be due to the pathogens' ability to eat plastics? We think this is a real possibility. Many medical treatments involve plastics, such as orthopaedic implants, catheters, dental implants and hydrogel pads for treating burns. Our study suggests that a pathogen that can degrade the plastic in these devices could become a serious issue. This can make the treatment fail or make the patient's condition worse. Thankfully, scientists are working on solutions, such as adding antimicrobial substances to medical plastics to stop germs from feeding on them. But now that we know that some germs can break down plastic, we'll need to consider that when choosing materials for future medical use. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Ronan McCarthy receives funding from the BBSRC, NC3Rs, Academy of Medical Sciences, Horizon 2020, British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, Innovate UK, NERC and the Medical Research Council. He is also Director of the Antimicrobial Innovations Centre at Brunel University of London. Rubén de Dios receives funding from the BBSRC and the Medical Research Council.
Business Wire
22-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
PHAXIAM Therapeutics: Postponement of the Offer Review Hearing
LYON, France--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regulatory News: PHAXIAM Therapeutics (Euronext: PHXM - FR001400K4B1), a biopharmaceutical company ("the Company" or "PHAXIAM") developing innovative treatments for severe and resistant bacterial infections, announces that the Lyon Commercial Court ('Tribunal des activités économiques de Lyon') decided, during a hearing held on May 21, 2025, to postpone the offer review hearing and has set a new hearing date for Wednesday, June 4, 2025. At the end of the bid examination hearing, whether a bid is accepted or not, the Lyon Commercial Court will in any case soon pronounce the conversion of the judicial reorganization into judicial liquidation. In this context, the Company will request the delisting of PHAXIAM shares from Euronext. Furthermore, PHAXIAM draws investors' attention to the fact that, given the Company's level of indebtedness, the disposal proceeds received in the event a bid is adopted will likely not allow for any reimbursement of shareholders. About PHAXIAM Therapeutics PHAXIAM is a biopharmaceutical company developing innovative treatments for resistant bacterial infections, which are responsible for many serious infections. The company is building on an innovative approach based on the use of phages, natural bacteria-killing viruses. PHAXIAM is developing a portfolio of phages targeting 3 of the most resistant and dangerous bacteria, which together account for more than two-thirds of resistant hospital-acquired infections: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. PHAXIAM is listed on the Euronext regulated market in Paris (ISIN code: FR001400K4B1, ticker: PHXM). PHAXIAM is part of the CAC Healthcare, CAC Pharma & Bio, CAC Mid & Small, CAC All Tradable, EnterNext PEA-PME 150 and Next Biotech indexes. For more information, please visit
Indian Express
22-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Can hospital superbugs chew up stents and implants? Here's what a new study says
A dangerous hospital-acquired bacteria can digest and live on plastics present in sutures, stents, wound dressings and implants in your body. Researchers from UK's Brunel University also found that when the bacteria used plastics as its food source, it led to the formation of more biofilms — barriers that can protect the pathogen from attacks by the immune system and antibiotics. The finding means that bacteria, such as the one they studied, could degrade medical implants, lead to infections at the site of the implant and cause infections that are harder to treat. What did the researchers find? There are bacteria in the environment that have developed the capacity to break down different types of plastics. So researchers wanted to see whether bacteria that cause infections in humans could also lead to such degradation within the body. For the study, scientists looked for different pathogens with genes that could potentially produce enzymes similar to the ones that environmental bacteria use to degrade plastics. While they found several hits, they selected a Pseudomonas aeruginosa sample that came from a patient's wound. They isolated an enzyme — which they named Pap1— that could digest a type of bio-degradable plastic frequently used in medical devices called polycaprolactone (PCL) plastic. The researchers found that the enzyme degraded 78 per cent of the plastic sample in just seven days. Importantly, the researchers found that the bacteria were not only degrading the plastic, they were also using it as their carbon source — effectively eating it. 'This means we need to reconsider how pathogens exist in the hospital environment. Plastics, including plastic surfaces, could potentially be food for these bacteria. Pathogens with this ability could survive for longer in hospitals,' Dr Ronan McCarthy, author and professor of biomedical sciences at Brunel University, said in a release. Why is this concerning? This is concerning for several reasons: One, bacteria could live on in hospitals or within a patient even when there aren't any other nutrients present. Two, they could degrade medical devices that use plastics, leading to their failure. This could lead to a rethink of materials that should be used for medical devices. Three, researchers found that the plastic-digesting bacteria could cause more severe infections. The researchers further found that the bacteria were using the broken down plastic molecules to create biofilms (a matrix made of sugars, proteins, fats and DNA) that make pathogens more resistant and difficult to treat. Four, degrading medical devices would also mean that the pathogens would be able to create pits and niches within the human body, where it could be shielded from the immune system and antibiotics, again causing difficult-to-treat infections. Are there other pathogens that could have this ability? Researchers found that other pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii, too, carried genes that could potentially create plastic-digesting enzymes. More studies are needed. Importantly, the researchers found that Pap1 enzyme was structurally similar to known enzymes that can degrade even more hardy plastics such as PET bottles.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Antimicrobial Coatings in Medical Devices Market to Surpass USD 6.49 Billion by 2031, With 13.2 % CAGR
The report runs an in-depth analysis of market trends, key players, and future opportunities. In general, the antimicrobial coatings for medical devices market comprises an array of products and services that are expected to contribute to the overall market performance in the coming years. US & Canada, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a new comprehensive report from The Insight Partners, the growth of the global antimicrobial coatings for medical devices market is fueled by the mounting prevalence of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and the rising number of surgical procedures. The Antimicrobial Coatings in Medical Devices Market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing need to prevent healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and the rising demand for advanced medical devices with antimicrobial properties. Key factors propelling this growth include the escalating incidence of chronic diseases, leading to more surgical interventions, and the subsequent need for infection-resistant medical explore the valuable insights in the Antimicrobial Coatings for Medical Devices Market report, you can easily download a sample PDF of the report - of Report Findings 1. Market Growth.: The antimicrobial coatings for medical devices market is expected to reach US$ 6.49 billion by 2031 from US$ 2.80 billion in 2024 at a CAGR of 13.2% during 2025–2031. Antimicrobial coatings for medical devices inhibit microbial proliferation and lower the likelihood of infections, enhancing patient safety and extending the durability of medical devices. These coatings are used on devices such as catheters, implantable devices, and surgical tools. They incorporate materials, including metallic options including silver and copper, as well as non-metallic polymeric coatings. 2. Rising Prevalence of Hospital-Acquired Infections: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over 680,000 HAIs occur each year among hospitalized patients in the US. The prevalence rate of these infections was 2.6% in 2023, resulting in extended hospitalizations, worsened illness severity, and increased death rates. The ongoing threat of HAIs, particularly those linked to medical implants and devices, propels the demand for antimicrobial coatings. Medical implants can become infected with pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Clostridium difficile, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, leading to elevated mortality rates and healthcare expenses. Antimicrobial coatings are used on medical instruments, including catheters, surgical tools, and implantable devices, to prevent the growth of microbes, minimize biofilm development, and decrease infection occurrences. Technologies such as Parylene polymer coatings, when paired with antimicrobial agents, offer defense against harmful microorganisms on the surfaces of devices. 3. Expanding Number of Surgical Procedures: Surgical interventions utilize medical equipment such as catheters, implants, and surgical tools that directly interact with internal tissues and bodily fluids. This interaction poses a significant risk of bacterial contamination and subsequent infections. Antimicrobial coatings on medical devices suppress the growth of bacteria and other pathogens on device surfaces, thereby decreasing the likelihood of infections associated with the devices during and following surgery. 4. Geographical Insights: In 2024, North America led the market with a substantial revenue share, followed by Europe and APAC. APAC is expected to register the highest CAGR in the market during the forecast Detailed Antimicrobial Coatings for Medical Devices Market Insights, Visit: Market Segmentation Based on material, the antimicrobial coatings for medical devices market is categorized into metallic coatings and non-metallic coatings. The metallic coatings segment held a larger share of the market in 2024. By coating type, the market is segmented into antibacterial coatings, antiviral coatings, and others. The antibacterial coatings segment held the largest antimicrobial coatings for medical devices market share in 2024. In terms of device type, the antimicrobial coatings for medical devices market is segmented into catheters, implantable devices, surgical instruments, and others. The implantable devices segment dominated the market in 2024. As per application, the antimicrobial coatings for medical devices market is segmented into general surgery, cardiovascular, orthopedics, gynecology, dentistry, and others. The cardiovascular segment held the largest share of the market in 2024. By end user, the market is categorized into medical device manufacturers, contract manufacturers, and service providers. The medical device manufacturers segment held the largest market share in 2024. The antimicrobial coatings for medical devices market is segmented into five major regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and South and Central Updated on The Latest Antimicrobial Coatings for Medical Devices Market Trends: Competitive Strategy and Development Key Players: A. The Sherwin-Williams Co, PPG Industries Inc., CytaCoat AB, Covalon Technologies Ltd, Koninklijke DSM NV, Specialty Coating Systems Inc., AST Products Inc., Hydromer Inc., BioInteractions Ltd, and Spartha Medical SA are among the major companies operating in the antimicrobial coatings for medical devices market. Trending Topics: Advancements in Antimicrobial Coatings, AI in Coating Technology, Applications of Antibacterial Coatings, Innovations in Antimicrobial Coatings for Medical Devices, etc. Global Headlines on Antimicrobial Coatings for Medical Devices Hydromer, Inc. Launched HydroThrombX, a Next-Generation Version of the Company's Current Legacy Product F200t. Biointeraction Announced the Launch of its TriDant Antimicrobial Coating. NEI Corporation Announced the Release of NANOMYTE AM-100EC, a New Micron-Thick Coating Designed to Impart Easy-to-Clean and Antimicrobial Properties to various surfaces. Microban International Introduced Its Technology – Premium Copy of Global Antimicrobial Coatings for Medical Devices Market Size and Growth Report (2025-2031) at: Conclusion The rising number of surgical procedures, the increasing prevalence of HAIs, and the expanding developments in medical coatings drive the growth of antimicrobial coatings for the medical devices market. According to The Lancet, ~ 313 million surgical procedures are performed annually in different areas worldwide. Surgical site infections (SSIs) affect an estimated 2–5% of patients undergoing surgeries. The soaring popularity of minimally invasive surgical techniques, which depend on smaller and more precise medical instruments such as catheters and guidewires, has resulted in greater usage of coated devices to enhance their performance. Medical coatings, including those with antimicrobial properties, reduce friction, enhance biocompatibility, and inhibit microbial colonization, which is essential for these surgeries. The surging incidence of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and arthritis has resulted in a higher number of implant surgeries and the employment of stents, orthopedic implants, and catheters. These devices necessitate the use of antimicrobial coatings to avert biofilm formation and microbial proliferation, which can lead to implant failure and serious infections. Progress in coating technologies, such as silver nanoparticle-based coatings and polymeric antimicrobial films, has improved the safety and durability of these devices. The report from The Insight Partners provides several stakeholders—including pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, and consumers—with valuable insights into how to successfully navigate this evolving market landscape and unlock new Related Reports: About Us: The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Device, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials. Contact Us: If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us: Contact Person: Ankit Mathur E-mail: Phone: +1-646-491-9876 Press Release - in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
