Discover your next big idea for life sciences at PACK EXPO Las Vegas
Experience a breakthrough in life sciences packaging—explore solutions from 2,300 suppliers spanning all industries, all in one place this September

Bad News: Bacteria Can Change Shape to Avoid Antibiotics

Scientists have found that certain strains of bacteria can change shape inside the human body to avoid being targeted by antibiotics.

Shape-Shifting Bacteria / Image: Sirirat/Shutterstock
Shape-Shifting Bacteria / Image: Sirirat/Shutterstock

There’s no question that antibiotics save lives, but widespread use has also contributed to the generation of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Bacteria has evolved to avoid antibiotics by pumping them out, breaking them down, or even halting growth and division to hide from the immune system. A recent article from The Conversation noted a newly discovered method in which the bacteria actually changes shape inside the body to avoid antibiotic attack, a process that requires no genetic change.

Most bacteria are surrounded by cell walls, which human cells don’t have, that make them easily recognized and targeted as foreign by the immune system. However, certain bacteria can survive without a cell wall, making them nearly invisible to the immune system and therefore completely resistant to all antibiotics that specifically target cell walls.

Medical Device Innovations Report
Cutting-edge packaging technologies are transforming the medical device sector in PMMI’s “Innovation in Medical Device” report, featuring advanced materials, smart solutions, and evolving regulations. Editors share insights from nearly 300 PACK EXPO booth visits—each product deemed new and truly innovative—alongside video demonstrations of the equipment and materials on display.
Learn More
Medical Device Innovations Report
Break out of the ordinary: see what’s new in life sciences packaging
<strong>At PACK EXPO Las Vegas, you’ll see machinery in action and new tech from 2,300 suppliers, collaborate with experts and explore transformative solutions. Join us in September to experience a breakthrough for life sciences products.</strong>
REGISTER NOW & SAVE!
Break out of the ordinary: see what’s new in life sciences packaging