Hidden E. coli survive in bladder cells, but existing drug helps antibiotics reach them in lab tests

AI Summary

Hidden Escherichia coli bacteria can persist in bladder cells, complicating urinary tract infections (UTIs). Laboratory tests indicate that an existing drug may help antibiotics better reach and eradicate these hidden bacteria, potentially improving UTI treatments.

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are among the most common bacterial infections and are caused mostly by the uropathogenic bacterium Escherichia coli. But even after antibiotic treatment, many patients experience another UTI.