MICROBIOLOGY:
Training a Molecular Gun on Killer E. coli
Richard A. Lovett
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health are closing in on the development of the first vaccine against Escherichia coli O157:H7, a pathogenic version of the common gut bacterium. Tests of an experimental vaccine showed promise in adults earlier this year, and the researchers are about to apply for approval to test it in young children. If the trial gets the go-ahead and the preparation passes further tests, experts say, a vaccine for people and one for livestock could be available early next century.