How Bladder Cells Fight Hidden E. coli: New Insights Into Recurrent UTIs
A new study finds the drug OM-89 may help bladder cells eliminate hidden E. coli by activating lysosomal pathways and increasing antibiotic uptake, potentially reducing bacterial regrowth in recurrent UTIs. The post How Bladder Cells Fight Hidden E. coli : New Insights Into Recurrent UTIs appeared first on GEN - Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News .
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common bacterial infection, often caused by E. coli. Recurrent UTIs can occur even after antibiotic treatment, as the bacteria can enter bladder epithelial cells to evade antibiotics and the immune system. Researchers have found a way to enhance bladder cells' ability to eliminate these hidden bacteria.
The study, published in PLOS Pathogens, reveals that the drug OM-89 increases lysosomal activity in bladder epithelial cells, improving bacterial clearance and antibiotic uptake. Lysosomal acidification and enzyme activity were increased with OM-89, and the protective effect was lost when lysosomal acidification was blocked. OM-89 also increased antibiotic accumulation inside bladder epithelial cells, across various antibiotic classes and bacterial strains.
This dual mechanism of action—boosting the immune system and directly affecting bladder cells—suggests a potential host-directed approach to recurrent infections. The research, conducted using mouse and human bladder epithelial cells, highlights lysosomal pathways in the bladder epithelium as a target for future treatment combinations to improve antibiotic outcomes.
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