Breakthrough in treatment of bacterial meningitis

Researchers from the University of Nottingham have discovered the technique through which meningococcal bacteria evades the immune system and attacks the victim’s brain.

Discovery made by scientists
The team led by Dlawer Ala’Aldeen, Professor of Clinical Microbiology and Head of the Molecular Bacteriology and Immunology Group at the Centre for Biomolecular Sciences, discovered that the three lethal germs attack the same receptors in the brain, which results in the penetration of the blood-brain barrier (BBB).

The mechanism used by pathogens to break through the BBB had previously eluded the researchers.

“This is a significant breakthrough which will help us design novel strategies for the prevention and treatment of bacterial meningitis. Identification of the human receptor and the bacteria (that attacks it) is like identifying a mysterious key and its lock, which will open new doors and pave the way for new discoveries,” the researchers said.

How the discovery will help patients
The researchers suggest that stopping or altering the pathogens’ interaction with the brain receptors may help in the prevention and detection of the meningitis bacteria. This will prove a vital step forward, leading to better treatment facilities and development of vaccines for saving lives of innocent children from the deadly disease.

Professor Ala’Aldeen said: “The ultimate aim is to save lives by protecting the healthy and curing the sick. We are one step closer to new breakthroughs that would prevent disease or its complications.

“There still is a long way to go before we have the ultimate vaccine and the ultimate treatment of bacterial meningitis.”

The research included work done by academics from the Department of Infectious Diseases at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis Tennessee, and also students from the University of Nottingham.

The research was published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation.

About Bacterial Meningitis
Bacterial meningitis is a life-threatening illness that results from bacterial infection of the meninges. An inflammation of the tissue around the brain and spinal cord, the disease has the capacity to take someone’s life merely a few hours after the symptoms appear.

Bacterial Meningitis in children is primarily caused by the three respiratory track pathogens, namely Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae.