Scientists discover antibiotic-resistant genes

Scientists at the U.S. Agricultural Research Service said they have detected over 700 genes that give microbes the ability to resist antibiotics and other antimicrobial compounds.

Concerned some of these organisms have acquired genetic resistance to the antibiotics used to kill them, researchers said finding genes that offer resistance is an important step for scientists looking for new ways to control the organisms.

Using DNA microarray technology, ARS and collaborators at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center said they have found what makes bacteria, including salmonella, E. coli and campylobacter, resistant. Findings were published in the journal Microbial Drug Resistance.