Tiny Asexual Animals Use Stolen Genes to Create Antibiotics

Bdelloid rotifers, ancient freshwater creatures, have survived millions of years by borrowing genes from bacteria and fungi to fend off infections.

New research reveals bdelloid rotifers use horizontally acquired genes to produce antimicrobial compounds.
These genes enable the rotifers to combat fungal infections, providing a unique survival mechanism.
The study suggests potential for developing new human-compatible antibiotics based on rotifer compounds.
Bdelloid rotifers reproduce asexually, which may drive their gene-stealing behavior.
Further research is needed to isolate and test the efficacy of these rotifer-produced compounds for human use.