STORY AT-A-GLANCE
Streptothricin F is a long-forgotten antibiotic researchers believe is effective against gram-negative, antibiotic-resistant superbugs and may hold one key to the future of fighting gram-negative pathogens that make up the majority of bacteria the WHO considers are the highest priority and pose the greatest threat to mankind
Early studies in the 1940s revealed human kidney toxicity. The current research team revisited the streptothricin F form and didn’t find kidney toxicity in an animal study, but it killed highly resistant gram-negative bacteria
Antibiotic resistance is on the rise, spurred by the rising use in humans and livestock. Despite known risks, use in animal farming is expected to grow by 8% by 2030, used to promote unnatural growth in the animal by altering the gut microbiome and concurrently developing antibacterial resistance
Biosolids comprise sewage sludge that is used to fertilize crops, and which contain a cocktail of hazardous materials, including antibiotics that also contribute to the rising public health threat
Cruciferous vegetables may hold one key to fighting gram-negative superbugs found in indole-3 carbinol that is converted to diindolylmethane (DIM). This boosts immune function and may be a potent weapon against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Like high dose vitamin C, this should only be used when needed