The devastating discovery of the New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase-1 (NDM-1) enzyme last 2008 has created a widespread panic of both theoretical and actual implications of bacterial infections. The enzyme, though commonly found in Gram negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, has created such as scare, since these infected bacteria can spread out and create even more powerful viruses. Termed as a superbug for most medical practitioners, frantic researchers have been compiling much-needed information since its discovery.
Resistance against the NDM-1 enzyme is currently at a low level, due to no existence of a vaccine capable of neutralizing the superbug. As observed by medical researchers worldwide, bacteria infected by the NDM-1 enzyme develops a resistance against all sorts of antibiotics, even the powerful, high profile ones.
Origins of the NDM-1 enzyme is undecided. The enzyme’s name – derived from New Delhi, India – stems from its discovery, a Swedish man of Indian origin. Records and various information sources have also shown that a major number of NDM-1 enzyme infected bacteria are to be found in India as well.
A theory of why India may be the source of the NDM-1 enzyme is due to the mismanagement and misuse of antibiotics in that country. It was observed that high profile and powerful antibiotics were commonly prescribed and used on even the most minor diseases in India. High dosages were also being pushed on all sorts of bacteria. This faulty and likewise error on judgment has created an opportunity for bacterium. A bacteria’s constant exposure on high profile antibiotics may have led onto creating new and equally powerful resistance barriers. Bacteria evolution is even considered, a scary thought due to their fast growth.
To counter the NDM-1 enzyme, a vaccine or an even more powerful antibiotic than those currently being prescribed for dosage is needed. However, this may prove to be a costly – and potentially – deadly risks for humans worldwide.
Research and development of an NDM-1 vaccine will not only cost a higher demand of money and resources, but may be too time-consuming as well. From the onset of developing an NDM-1 vaccine, the NDM-1 enzyme out in the open may have already created new resistance factors, making the still to be administered vaccine already ineffective. Also, with the large amount of money and resources needed to develop the vaccine, the cure can end up to be too expensive for practical dosage or administration.
Since no NDM-1 vaccine is currently available, the best way to fight this enzyme is to create an effective antibiotics policy. Information needs to be disseminated on proper antibiotic prescription and administration, not to mention bacteria infection symptoms need to be discussed to the public as well.