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NOVA scienceNOW: Killer Microbe
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Program Overview
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Scientists
discuss the dangers of a type of bacterium called Acinetobacter baumannii (referred to in Iraq as Iraqibacter),
which has transformed itself into an antibiotic-resistant killer.
This NOVA scienceNOW segment:
introduces
A. baumannii, named
for microbiologist Paul Baumann, who studied it in 1968. At that time, it was
relatively harmless. But it has now transformed itself into a drug-resistant
killer. explains
that bacteria pass genes in two ways: through mitosis and through conjugation.
In conjugation, two bacteria form a physical connection, and DNA passes from
one bacterium to the other. hypothesizes
that A. baumannii
received genes from two kinds of dangerous bacteria: one was fatal to humans
and the second was resistant to antibiotics. This combination makes A. baumannii dangerous in two ways. describes
the work of a microbiologist researching drug-resistant A. baumannii who determined that new genes inserted
at just one DNA location conferred resistance to 45 drugs. states
that soldiers of the Iraq War infected with A. baumannii bring the bacteria home, leading to its
spread. points
out that until scientists better understand A. baumannii, the best way for the public to combat
infection is through better hospital hygiene, good medical care, and good
personal hygiene.
Taping Rights: Can be used up to one year after the program is taped off the air.
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