NEWS
Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine
Marshall University Research Uncovers New Strategy to Reduce Tissue Damage From Flesh-Eating Bacteria
A study published in Nature Communications reveals a novel approach to mitigating tissue damage caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, the flesh-eating bacterium responsible for severe infections such as necrotizing fasciitis. The research highlights how disrupting bacterial metabolism can help the body better tolerate infection and heal more effectively.
The study was led by Wei Xu, PhD, an assistant professor of biomedical sciences at the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, and colleagues at Washington University School of Medicine and Central China Normal University. The team discovered that S. pyogenes manipulates the body’ s immune response through its aerobic mixed-acid fermentation process, which produces metabolic byproducts— such as acetate and formate— that impair immune cell function, delay bacterial clearance, and slow wound healing.
“ By understanding these interactions, we can develop new treatment strategies that protect tissues, enhance antibiotic efficacy, and improve patient outcomes,” Xu said.
To view the article in its entirety, visit https:// doi. org / 10.1038 / s41467-025-57348-x.
Image: This scanning electron microscope image taken by Dr. Xu shows a mouse skin infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes( pseudocolored purple). The bacterium, known as flesh-eating bacteria, has aggressively invaded the tissue( blue), causing extensive damage and destruction. The image highlights the severity of necrotizing skin infections and the devastating impact of bacterial invasion on host tissues.
10 • www. wvsma. org