Scientists Turn an Old Antibiotic Back Into a Superbug Killer

Researchers found a lab-made small molecule, pghi-4, that blocks the bacterial enzyme SagA.

In tests with drug-resistant Enterococcus faecium, pghi-4 restored vancomycin's ability to kill the bacteria.

The work, done with Scripps Research, suggests a new way to revive an important antibiotic without replacing it.

The approach could help preserve treatment options against superbugs and other hard-to-treat infections.