Antibiotics are essential in fighting infections, but they can also harm the healthy bacteria present in the gut microbiome. A recent study published in Nature shows promise for a new antibiotic called lolamicin, which effectively fights various bacteria while sparing the beneficial gut microbes. To maintain the health of the gut microbiome, it is recommended to follow a balanced diet and practice safe and careful antibiotic use.
Lolamicin is a gram-negative specific antibiotic that has shown effectiveness against over 130 multidrug-resistant clinical isolates. Researchers found that the antibiotic successfully treated infection in mice while protecting the gut microbiome. This selective microbiome-sparing strategy aims to develop a new generation of antibiotics that can target harmful bacteria while leaving beneficial bacteria intact.
Dr. Kristen Muñoz, a scientific analyst involved in the study, highlighted the unique double selectivity of lolamicin, which distinguishes it from other antibiotics that can cause gut dysbiosis by affecting both beneficial and harmful bacteria. Further research is needed to explore the full potential of lolamicin and its effectiveness in human subjects.
Lolamicin has shown promising results in mice models, with a high level of efficacy in treating acute pneumonia and septicemia. The antibiotic demonstrated reduced impact on the gut microbiome compared to broad-spectrum and gram-positive-only antibiotics, making it a potential candidate for future antibiotic treatments.
While the study on lolamicin offers hope for preserving gut health during antibiotic treatments, there are still limitations to consider. The research primarily focused on mouse models, and further studies are required to assess the antibiotic’s effectiveness in humans. Additionally, more extensive testing is needed to evaluate drug resistance and toxicology in relation to lolamicin.
In the meantime, individuals can take steps to promote gut health, such as consuming a diet high in fiber and fermented foods. Probiotics may not always be the best solution for gut health recovery after antibiotic use, as studies have shown they can delay the process. Physical activity, including both cardio and strength training, can also improve gut health. By adopting these practices, individuals can support the balance of their gut microbiome and overall well-being.
