Study: Current and emerging approaches for alleviating persistent Lyme disease
Prevention and the need for better diagnostic tools also recognized by researchers.
A new peer reviewed publication in Frontiers in Microbiology by lead author Kashaf Zafar, outlines the latest advancements for addressing Lyme disease. Lyme continues to be the most common tick-borne illness in North America, caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi.
While antibiotics can resolve early Lyme disease, some patients can report lingering symptoms including fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and musculoskeletal pain. The causes of the lingering symptoms is unclear, however factors such as persisting bacteria, bacterial remnants, and immune dysregulation are under investigation.
The review highlights several promising strategies for novel breakthroughs in treatment and prevention including:
- Targeting resistant bacteria: novel antibiotics such as daptomycin and Hygromycin A are showing potential against persistent forms of bacteria
- Vaccine research: including a new OspA multivalent vaccine (VLA15) in secondary clinical trials, and exploration of an anti-tick vaccine that would block the tick bite and prevent transmission of multiple tick borne illnesses
- Alternative therapies: acupuncture or anti-inflammatory agents can be explored to improve quality of life for patients struggling with persisting symptoms
Researchers emphasise the need for more effective diagnostics, therapies targeting persistent bacteria, and future vaccine availability. Prevention of tick bites to reduce transmission remains key. The review stresses the need for innovative solutions to Lyme disease and its potential for long term impacts.
For more information, visit the original article in Frontiers in Microbiology.
Citation
Zafar, K., Azuama, O. C., & Parveen, N. (2024). Current and emerging approaches for eliminating Borrelia burgdorferi and alleviating persistent Lyme disease symptoms. Frontiers in Microbiology, 15. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2024.1459202