During their research, Romanian scientists analyzed ice that is over 5000 years old from the Scarisoara underground cave. As a result, they discovered a new strain of bacteria, Psychrobacter SC65A.3, which exhibits resistance to modern antibiotics. This discovery may help in understanding the natural process of antibiotic resistance formation and offer new approaches in the fight against "superbugs."
To obtain samples, the researchers drilled 25 meters of ice in the "Great Hall" of the cave. To avoid possible contamination, all collected fragments were placed in sterile bags and kept frozen during transportation to the laboratory. In laboratory conditions, the scientists isolated various strains of bacteria, sequenced their genomes, and assessed their resistance to 28 antibiotics from 10 different classes used to treat bacterial infections in humans.
The identified strain, Psychrobacter SC65A.3, adapted to cold conditions, demonstrated resistance to more than 10 antibiotics, including rifampicin, vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, trimethoprim, clindamycin, and metronidazole. It includes over 100 genes responsible for resistance and is capable of suppressing the growth of several "superbugs." Additionally, the genome contained nearly 600 genes with unknown functions and 11 genes that may slow the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, as well as enzymes that could be useful in biotechnological developments.
Data on ancient microorganisms confirm that antibiotic resistance formed naturally long before the creation of modern medicines. Strains capable of surviving in extreme conditions may serve as reservoirs of resistance genes that can be transferred to other bacteria.
The discovery also highlights a dual potential. On one hand, the melting of ancient ice could lead to the release of these genes, exacerbating the problem of global antibiotic resistance; on the other hand, bacteria may produce unique enzymes and antimicrobial compounds, creating opportunities for the development of new drugs and solutions in biotechnology.
Dr. Cristina Purcarea from the Bucharest Institute of Biology emphasizes the importance of studying ancient bacteria for science and medicine, but notes that this requires strict safety measures in laboratories to prevent uncontrolled spread.
