Ahmedabad: Researchers from IIT Gandhinagar, Jamia Millia Islamia and collaborating institutions have identified a potential new way to combat Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium that has become a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance nearly a century after it was central to the discovery of penicillin.In a recently published study, the team developed a laboratory-synthesised molecule called DSA3 that targets thymidine kinase (TK), an enzyme used by S. aureus to recycle key components required for DNA replication and repair. Since TK remains a relatively unexplored antibiotic target, the finding could open a new avenue for tackling bacteria that have developed resistance to existing treatments.The researchers combined crystal structure analysis of the enzyme, computer-based modelling and laboratory experiments to evaluate nine synthesised compounds. Among them, DSA3 emerged as the most promising candidate. Tests showed that the molecule binds to thymidine kinase, suppresses its activity, and restricts the growth of S. aureus. At higher concentrations, it was able to kill the bacteria.The researchers cautioned that DSA3 is still at an early stage and is not ready for clinical use.
