Researchers at Politecnico di Milano have developed a technique that uses light-sensitive molecules to control bacterial functions without genetic modification.

Their EOS project enables bacteria to sense light and convert it into electrical signals that influence key processes like movement, biofilm formation, and antibiotic sensitivity.

This method, called optomodulation, can affect how bacteria absorb antibiotics, potentially improving treatment against resistant strains.

For example, exposure to blue light altered the effectiveness of antibiotics like Kanamycin and Ampicillin on Bacillus subtilis, Phys.org has reported.

This breakthrough could lead to new antimicrobial therapies and light-guided bacterial “robots” for targeted drug delivery.

Written by B.C.Begley