Halicin, an older drug initially intended to treat diabetes, has been found to be a potent weapon against superbugs, thanks to artificial intelligence. AI identified Halicin as effective in inhibiting most multidrug-resistant bacteria. The AI-driven discovery highlights the potential for repurposing existing pharmaceuticals.
Studies have confirmed Halicin's broad-spectrum antibacterial capabilities, demonstrating its ability to disrupt the electrochemical gradient in bacterial cells, a mechanism that makes it difficult for bacteria to develop resistance. Halicin exhibited significant inhibitory activity against several Gram-negative pathogens, with MIC values ranging between 16 and 64 µg/mL. It is effective against bacteria that have already developed resistance to many conventional antibiotics, promoting future research into its safety and optimal dosage. However, Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed intrinsic resistance.
These findings underscore the transformative role of AI in antibiotic discovery, offering a promising avenue for combating the rise of antibiotic-resistant infections. Further research will explore Halicin's safety and optimal usage, paving the way for new antibacterial treatments.
