Soil Bacteria as a Source of New Antibiotics: Inhibiting Safe ESKAPE Relatives

The ongoing evolution of bacteria leads to antibiotic resistance and the need for new drugs. The aim of this research was to study soil bacteria as a potential source of new antibiotics. Soil samples were collected, diluted, and plated in order to culture bacteria. Selected colonies were screened for inhibition of safe relatives of the ESKAPE pathogens. Antibiotic-producing candidate colonies were later identified and characterized. One candidate successfully inhibited Enterobacter aerogenes and Acinetobacter baylyi, demonstrating its potential as a promising antibiotic source. This work highlights the role of soil bacteria in the ongoing search for unique antibiotics to combat resistant infections.