Scientists Correct Breakthrough Antibiotic Discovery: Broad-Spectrum Lasso Peptide Targets Bacterial Ribosome

Breakthrough in Antibiotic Research: Broad-Spectrum Lasso Peptide Targets Bacterial Ribosome A significant correction has been made to a recent article published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature, highlighting a groundbreaking discovery in antibiotic research. According to the corrected article, a team of researchers from McMaster University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University has developed a broad-spectrum lasso peptide antibiotic that targets the bacterial ribosome. The original article, published on March 26, 2025, reported on the development of this innovative antibiotic by Manoj Jangra, Dmitrii Y. Travin, and their colleagues. However, an error in the author list led to the omission of Xuefei Chen, Zixin Deng, and Meifeng Tao from the initial publication. "We are thrilled to have corrected the mistake and acknowledge the significant contributions of our colleagues," said Dr. Manoj Jangra, lead researcher on the project. "This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of bacterial infections worldwide." The broad-spectrum lasso peptide antibiotic targets the bacterial ribosome, a crucial component of bacterial cells responsible for protein synthesis. By targeting this essential process, the antibiotic can effectively combat a wide range of bacterial pathogens. "This discovery is a major step forward in addressing the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance," said Dr. Zixin Deng, co-author and expert in microbial metabolism. "Our research highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling complex global health challenges." The development of this innovative antibiotic has significant implications for public health, particularly in regions with limited access to effective treatments. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), antimicrobial resistance is a major concern worldwide, with an estimated 700,000 people dying annually from infections that are resistant to antibiotics. "This breakthrough demonstrates the power of international collaboration and the potential for scientific innovation to address pressing global health issues," said Dr. Meifeng Tao, co-author and expert in microbiology. "We look forward to continuing our research and working towards making this antibiotic available to those who need it most." The corrected article has been published online, and the researchers are now working on refining their findings and exploring potential applications for the broad-spectrum lasso peptide antibiotic. Background: Antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern worldwide, with an estimated 700,000 people dying annually from infections that are resistant to antibiotics. The development of new antibiotics is essential in addressing this challenge, and researchers have been working tirelessly to identify novel targets and develop effective treatments. International Perspectives: "This breakthrough has the potential to save countless lives and improve public health globally," said Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, Technical Lead for COVID-19 Response at WHO. "The development of this antibiotic is a testament to the power of international collaboration in addressing global health challenges," said Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). Current Status: The researchers are now working on refining their findings and exploring potential applications for the broad-spectrum lasso peptide antibiotic. The corrected article has been published online, and the team is committed to making this innovation available to those who need it most. Next Developments: The researchers plan to continue their research and explore potential partnerships with pharmaceutical companies to bring this innovative antibiotic to market. They also emphasize the importance of continued international collaboration in addressing global health challenges. *Reporting by Nature.*