Scientists have discovered a new group of antibiotics that may be able to kill drug-resistant bacteria and germs.
The new drug, teixobactin, is created from bacteria that live in dirt and has been tested in lab experiments. Researchers described the antibiotic in a study published in the journal Nature on Wednesday, saying it is unlikely bacteria will become resistant to it.
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Since the scientists have only tested teixobactin in mice so far, its safety and effectiveness in humans aren't yet known. But it didn't cause side effects in the mice and did cure severe infections, including those resistant to antibiotics. The researchers hope to begin testing the drug on humans in two years, and it could be available within five or six years.
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