Scientists have uncovered a surprising form of teamwork that helps bacteria survive antibiotic treatment. NIH-funded researchers found that some bacteria release tiny sacs called vesicles, packed with proteins, which are then taken up by nearby bacteria. Antibiotics appear to trigger some cells to become “donors,” while others enter a dormant state and become “recipients.” The recipient bacteria can absorb these protein-filled vesicles, increasing their chances of surviving the antibiotic attack. Published in Science on June 25, 2026, the study reveals that bacterial survival may depend not only on sharing genes but also on sharing proteins. Blocking this protein-transfer process could potentially make antibiotics more effective against resistant infections.
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