A historic brine bath is the site of a potential breakthrough in the prevention of antibiotic resistance in relation to MRSA, and other hospital pathogens.

The brine in the English market town of Droitwich Spa in Worcestershire is known for its high salt content. Researchers discovered unique microbial life residing in the town's brine and realized it presented an ideal environment for studying salt-adapted microbes with potential medical applications.

The project, a collaboration between Dr. John Munnoch at the University of Strathclyde and Dr. Michael Macey of the Open University, has since yielded significant findings, including DNA sequencing data revealing the microbial life in the brine and isolated organisms capable of inhibiting MRSA and other pathogens.

New antibiotics

Antibiotic resistance, a global health crisis on par with climate change, poses severe threats to medical treatments. As common infections become harder to treat due to resistant bacteria, the discovery of new antibiotics has become crucial.

• Read More