Breakthrough CRISPR system could reverse antibiotic resistance crisis
Researchers at UC San Diego report a conjugative, gene drive–inspired CRISPR system that spreads genetic 'fixes' to strip antibiotic resistance from bacterial populations, including within biofilms. Published in npj Antimicrobials and Resistance, the approach could enable targeted reversal of resistance in situ but poses ecological and containment concerns.
Why it mattersUC San Diego's gene-drive-like CRISPR stripping antibiotic resistance means hospitals must update infection-control and surveillance strategies.