Texas A&M researchers examine 'invading' bacteria in DNA
Researchers at Texas A&M University's Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering have discovered how certain types of bacteria integrate the DNA that they have captured from invading enemies into their own genetic makeup to increase their chances of survival. view more (2009-06-03)
Newly discovered reactions from an old drug may lead to new antibiotics
A mineral found at health food stores could be the key to developing a new line of antibiotics for bacteria that commonly cause diarrhea, tooth decay and, in some severe cases, death. view more (2009-06-02)
Squid 'sight': Not just through eyes
It's hard to miss the huge eye of a squid. But now it appears that certain squids can detect light through an organ other than their eyes as well. view more (2009-06-02)
Study finds unexpected bacterial diversity on human skin
The health of our skin - one of the body's first lines of defense against illness and injury - depends upon the delicate balance between our own cells and the millions of bacteria and other one-celled microbes that live on its surface. view more (2009-05-29)
Researchers find 'surprising link' leads toward a new antibiotic
As the best drugs become increasingly resistant to superbugs, McMaster University researchers have discovered a completely different way of looking for a new antibiotic. view more (2009-05-29)
Boston University biomedical engineers teach bacteria to count
Biomedical engineers at Boston University have taught bacteria how to count. Professor James J. Collins and colleagues have wired a new sequence of genes that allow the microbes to count discrete events, opening the door for a host of potential applications, which could include drug delivery and sensing environmental hazards. view more (2009-05-29)
Geographic isolation drives the evolution of a hot springs microbe
Sulfolobus islandicus, a microbe that can live in boiling acid, is offering up its secrets to researchers hardy enough to capture it from the volcanic hot springs where it thrives. view more (2009-05-28)
Immune genes adapt to parasites
Thank parasites for making some of our immune proteins into the inflammatory defenders they are today. view more (2009-05-26)
TB -- hiding in plain sight
Current research suggests that Mycobacterium tuberculosis can evade the immune response. view more (2009-05-22)
Bacteria with a built-in thermometer
Researchers in the "Molecular Infection Biology group" at the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) in Braunschweig and the Braunschweig Technical University could now demonstrate for the first time that bacteria of the Yersinia genus possess a unique protein thermometer - the protein RovA - which assists them in the infection... view more... (2009-05-21)
Salmonella's sweet tooth predicts its downfall
For the first time UK scientists have shown what the food poisoning bug Salmonella feeds on to survive as it causes infection: glucose. view more (2009-05-20)
Are You Okay to Kiss?
A quick breath check in the palm of your hand can never give accurate results. Whether you're about to lean in for a smooch or start a job interview, you're better off asking a trusted friend if your breath is sweet. But what if a friend isn't around when you need one? view more (2009-05-19)
Microscopic manufacturers produce eco-friendly plastics
Last year's energy crisis highlighted an unforseen by-product of the looming fuel shortages of the 21st century. Petroleum-based products such as plastics that society takes for granted but now requires to function will run out with the oil. view more (2009-05-19)
Vitamin D insufficiency linked to bacterial vaginosis in pregnant women
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection in US women of childbearing age, and is common in pregnant women. view more (2009-05-15)
Cholesterol-busting bug with a taste for waste
A novel species of bacteria with cholesterol-busting properties has been discovered by scientists at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain. Dr Oliver Drzyzga and colleagues isolated the new bug, called Gordonia cholesterolivorans, from sewage sludge. view more (2009-05-15)
Bacteria create aquatic superbugs in waste treatment plants
For bacteria in wastewater treatment plants, the stars align perfectly to create a hedonistic mating ground for antibiotic-resistant superbugs eventually discharged into streams and lakes. view more (2009-05-13)
Bacteria Play Role in Preventing Spread of Malaria
Bacteria in the gut of the Anopheles gambiae mosquito inhibit infection of the insect with Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes malaria in humans, according to researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. view more (2009-05-11)
hus the bile does not overflow
A consequence of the different cancers of the hepatobiliary system is blocked bile ducts. However, artificial catheters known as "stents" can remediate this problem. view more (2009-05-11)
Insect gene expression responds to diet
Cabbage looper caterpillars (Trichoplusia ni) are able to alter the expression of genes associated with metabolism, homeostasis and immunity in response to feeding on plants carrying bacteria. view more (2009-05-07)
Study in pregnant women suggests probiotics may help ward off obesity
One year after giving birth, women were less likely to have the most dangerous kind of obesity if they had been given probiotics from the first trimester of pregnancy, found new research that suggests manipulating the balance of bacteria in the gut may help fight obesity. view more (2009-05-07)
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