New artificial cell can engulf live bacteria via endocytosis

Antibiotic consumption is on the rise, causing increased resistance in bacteria. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria develops the ability to resist the effects of medication that was used to successfully treat it in the past. Without urgent action, the global community is heading for a post-antibiotic era, in which common infections and minor injuries can once again kill. Now, a study from researchers led by the University of Pennsylvania develops artificial cells that can detect and devour bacteria. The team state their artificial phagocytic cells represent an alternative to antibiotics, the mainstream treatment against bacterial infections, and could potentially treat bacteria which have developed antibiotic resistance.