Superbugs versus Superdrugs - The Reckoning

Oct. 11 Presentation to Discuss Battle between Bacteria and Anitbiotics

Published: Wednesday, October 3, 2018

Dr. Larry Sutton and student

Throughout history, humankind has been virtually helpless when faced with infections. From death due to the smallest scratch to great plagues that wiped out large parts of humanity, bacterial infections have struck terror in the hearts of common folk. Once antibiotics were discovered, fear subsided. Now the bacteria are fighting back.

“Antibiotics were the foundation upon which all modern medical technologies were built,” said Dr. Sutton. “We no longer fear infections, but we should.”

Dr. Larry Sutton, Associate Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Benedictine College and scientific founder of Gladius Pharmaceuticals, Inc., will talk about where we are in this ongoing battle in his presentation “Superbugs versus Superdrugs: The Reckoning.” The event is set for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 11, in the McAllister Board Room on the fourth floor of the Ferrell Academic Center on the Benedictine College campus in Atchison, Kan. It is free and open to the public.

Sutton explained that bacteria have become immune to antibiotics. He said many of the best drugs no longer work; yet big pharmaceutical companies have abandoned the discovery of new antibiotics.

“The nightmare bacteria are upon us,” Sutton said. “No longer curable, these superbugs threaten the practice of modern medicine like cancer treatment, joint replacements, organ transplants and the care of our newborn.”

In his talk, which he described as an educational and public service talk for nonscientists and the lay community, Dr. Sutton will explain what he feels has gone wrong with today’s pharmaceutical business model, how it is leading us into the post-antibiotic era, and how to fix it.​

Founded in 1858, Benedictine College is a Catholic, Benedictine, residential, liberal arts college located on the bluffs above the Missouri River in Atchison, Kansas.  The school is proud to have been named one of America’s Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report as well as one of the top Catholic colleges in the nation by First Things magazine and the Newman Guide.  It prides itself on outstanding academics, extraordinary faith life, strong athletic programs, and an exceptional sense of community and belonging.  It has a mission to educate men and women within a community of faith and scholarship.

Location