Impact Stories
Research Breakthrough: Pathogenic Mechanism and Novel Treatment for Superbug “Klebsiella pneumoniae” to reduce mortality
Antibiotics have long been effective medications for treating bacterial infections. However, some bacteria have begun to exhibit "antibiotic resistance," rendering them resistant to multiple antibiotics, and they are often referred to as "superbugs." Recently, Prof. Chen Sheng and his team have discovered two novel treatment approaches for the treatment of infections caused by antibiotic-resistant superbugs. These approaches have demonstrated excellent efficacy and significant potential for clinical application. The research findings have been published in two prestigious journals: Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy and the Journal of Infection.
Prof. Chen and his team identified a new variant of Klebsiella pneumoniae, known as hyper-resistant and hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (CR-hvKP). Remarkably, within just five years after the discovery of the CR-hvKP strain, they have simultaneously identified two promising treatment options that can be used individually or in combination to neutralize the threat posed by this highly drug-resistant and virulent pathogen. Timely treatment not only reduces mortality but also curbs the spread of the pathogen. The team is planning to conduct clinical trials to validate their findings, with the ultimate goal of significantly reducing the mortality rate associated with CR-hvKP infections.
Using Traditional Chinese Medicine for Management of Bone Diseases
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a medical study with a profound history. However, the instability of product quality and under-enhancement of fundamental research affects its international recognition. Our researchers are dedicated to elucidating the underlying mechanisms of TCM for disease management, including bone health and age-related diseases. Studies have demonstrated that TCM ingredients, including Epimedium, Ligustrum and Sambucus Williamsii Hance, have significant anti-osteoporotic effects. The team has collaborated with Jinan University to develop and formulate the standardized Sambucus Williamsii Hance extract, and provided scientific evidence on the efficacy and safety for further development of Chinese patent medicines. Their research won the Second-Class Prize in Scientific and Technological Progress Award and received award recognition from the Ministry of Education of the PRC, as well as funding support from the Innovation Technology Commission.
Increasing Fruit and Vegetable Intake can Improve the Nutritional Value of Breast Milk
The breastfeeding rate in Hong Kong has been increasing steadily over the past 20 years. As the source of a variety of nutrients, breast milk plays a vital role in the healthy growth and development of infants. Our researchers analysed the three-day dietary records and breast milk samples of some Hong Kong lactating women. The research revealed that only 4% of the lactating women in the study had dietary habits that met the recommendation from the Department of Health, i.e., to consume at least two servings of fruits and three servings of vegetables per day, or the recommended intake of vitamin A according to the “Chinese Dietary Reference Intake” established by the Chinese Nutrition Society. There was a significant correlation between dietary intake and the nutrient levels of breast milk, especially the carotenoid and polyphenol contents. A new research project “Feeding mom feeding infants” has been launched by the research team. 100 pairs of lactating women and infants are recruited for an one year study to further investigate the relationship between the dietary habits of lactating women and the nutrients of breast milk, gut microbiota composition of infants and their growth.
AkkMore™: a Fungus and Plant Based Supplement Against Obesity or Prediabetes
Our research team has developed AkkMore™, which is a fungal and plant-based formula that helps reduce metabolic disorders and reduce body weight. It is safe even for postnatal moms to prevent obesity. It aims to improve users’ body conditions by building a healthy microbiome through consuming a safe, natural and wholesome supplement. The research team has completed Phase three animal trials and Phase one clinical trials. The results show that AkkMore™ can effectively improve metabolism and help with weight management. Dr Gail CHANG won a silver medal at the International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva -Special Edition 2022 Inventions Geneva Evaluation Days – Virtual Event for her discovery.
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