Argyrin B kills C. difficile while sparing the gut microbiome

Researchers at HIPS (HZI) and Saarland University found that the natural compound argyrin B effectively suppresses Clostridioides difficile in lab tests and infected mice while barely affecting beneficial gut bacteria. Taken orally, the compound stays largely in the large intestine, potentially reducing side effects.

• Argyrin B significantly reduced C. difficile bacterial load in mice
• The compound showed little activity against beneficial gut microbes
• After oral dosing, most of the drug remained in the large intestine
• Clinical trials have not started; dosing studies are next