New research suggests that diabetes, a common condition that affects blood sugar regulation, may also promote antibiotic resistance.
Bacteria are becoming resistant to antibiotics.
Bacterial pathogens can cause serious infections. Many of these bacteria are becoming resistant to antibiotics. As a result, nearly five million deaths occur every year worldwide, and this number is expected to increase. Scientists have been studying the mechanisms behind antibiotic resistance.
Staphylococcus aureus is a significant cause of infections. Many of these infections are resistant to antibiotics. This pathogen is the most common infection in diabetes mellitus patients. People with diabetes are more likely to carry antibiotic-resistant strains of staph. A study published in Science Advances has revealed that the diabetic environment may encourage bacterial mutations that lead to resistance.
“Antibiotic resistance develops much faster in diabetic models than in non-diabetic ones,” said Brian Conlon, PhD, from the University of North Carolina (UNC) School of Medicine. “The interaction between bacteria and diabetes may be a key factor in the rapid spread of resistance.”
Bacteria take advantage of high sugar levels to multiply
In diabetes, insulin does not regulate blood sugar properly. Staph bacteria take advantage of high sugar levels to multiply quickly. Diabetes also weakens the immune system, making it easier for infections to occur. More bacterial growth increases the chances of antibiotic resistance.
When a bacteria strain develops resistance, it spreads rapidly in a population.
“Staphylococcus aureus is well-adapted to thrive in this diabetic environment,” said Lance Thurlow, PhD, assistant professor of microbiology and immunology at UNC School of Medicine. “Once a resistant mutation occurs, excess glucose and a weak immune system allow it to dominate the bacterial population within days.”
This study used a mouse model. One group of mice was made diabetic using a drug that targeted insulin-producing cells, while another group remained untreated. Both groups were infected with staph and then treated with rifampicin, an antibiotic known to promote resistance.
After five days, high levels of rifampicin-resistant bacteria were found in the diabetic mice. In contrast, no resistant bacteria were detected in the non-diabetic group.
Importance of maintaining blood sugar levels in diabetics
This research underscores the importance of maintaining blood sugar levels in diabetics. Scientists now aim to study resistance to other bacterial infections. This includes both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals, transplant recipients, and cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
“Resistance is influenced not just by antibiotic use but also by the patient’s health condition,” Conlon explained. “Blood glucose control is crucial. When insulin was given to our mice, their blood sugar normalized, and resistance did not develop as quickly.”
Sources: University of North Carolina Health Care, Science Advances.