Detecting ‘super power’ bacteria in Antarctica

The thawing process has revealed that in the Antarctic peninsula there are many types of bacteria that have never been known before – Photo: brisbanetimes.

OLDChilean scientists recently published the results of a study on genes discovered in Antarctica that can give bacteria “super powers” against antibiotics and drugs. against other bacteria.

Lead researcher Andres Marcoleta said scientists from the University of Chile collected genetic samples from various points in the Antarctic peninsula between 2017-2019 and discovered that the Antarctic peninsula , one of the regions most affected by melting ice, is home to a wide variety of bacteria and some of which constitute a potential source of long-standing genes for antibiotic resistance.

The “superpowers” developed during evolution to withstand extreme conditions are contained in mobile DNA chromosomal fragments, allowing them to be easily transferred to other bacteria. In a possible scenario, these genes could leave this frozen land and promote the emergence and spread of infectious diseases.

The scientists also confirmed that the “resistance gene” would not be able to be suppressed through conventional reducing agents such as copper, chlorine or dominant quaternary ammonium compounds.

The study shows that the Antarctic bacterium pseudomonas – one of the dominant groups – does not cause disease, but can act as a source of resistance genes, while polaromonas bacteria also have the potential to neutralize the pathogens. beta-lactam antibiotics, which are essential for the treatment of various infections.

The scientists say this study will allow predicting future health risks.

According to expert Marcoleta, after the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is clear that microorganisms, especially pathogens, can cause impacts on a global scale. Therefore, the study will help scientists understand whether climate change can have an impact on the emergence of infectious diseases.