Antibiotic resistance is a growing global problem.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more infections are becoming increasingly difficult to treat because bacteria are developing resistance to medication, SciTechDaily reports.
Bacteria are not only able to develop resistance on their own. They can also pass resistance genes on to other bacteria through small pieces of DNA known as plasmids.
This allows resistant bacteria to spread rapidly between different species.
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Experiments with cinnamon
A new study published in Engineering examined cinnamic acid, a natural compound found in cinnamon and commonly used in food products. The substance was tested both in laboratories and in mice.
The experiments showed that cinnamic acid made it more difficult for bacteria to transfer resistance genes to one another.
At the same time, the substance did not interfere with the bacteria’s normal growth.
Researchers also found signs that the compound affects the bacteria’s energy production. This may help reduce their ability to share genes.
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No clear side effects
According to the researchers, the mice examined in the study showed no clear side effects after treatment with cinnamic acid.
There were also no major changes found in their organs or gut bacteria.
The researchers therefore believe the substance could become part of future methods aimed at limiting the spread of antibiotic resistance.
Sources: SciTechDaily and Engineering.
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