Blocking bacteria's metabolism reduces tissue damage in infections

A new study in Nature Communications shows that blocking the metabolism of the flesh-eating bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes can reduce tissue damage in infections. This approach helps the body manage infections better and heal more effectively. Researchers found that S. pyogenes disrupts the immune response through its metabolic processes, which produce harmful byproducts. By using a specific inhibitor, they reduced tissue damage in mouse models of necrotizing skin infections. This research suggests that altering bacterial metabolism could improve treatment outcomes, especially in severe infections where antibiotics may be less effective. The findings could lead to new therapies that work alongside existing antibiotics.