Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States have made progress in the fight against tuberculosis by developing a new method for labeling key components of the bacterium that causes Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
“EDnews” reports that the study was published in the scientific journal “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences”.
The team developed a new method for labeling the glucan, an important component of the pathogen’s cell wall. Using the organic molecule oxaziridine, the scientists were able to selectively visualize this glucan for the first time and track its behavior when infecting immune cells.
The method allowed them to observe the bacteria for several days after infection. Contrary to previous assumptions, glucans remain in the bacterial cell wall. The technology opens up new opportunities for studying the mechanisms of infection.Current methods for diagnosing tuberculosis molecular tests are not available in many developing countries.
The new approach could form the basis of rapid urine tests, more sensitive methods for detecting the disease, and an alternative to long-term bacterial cultivation.
Madina Mammadova\\EDnews
