John Leslie, K-State professor, receives International Professorship for Latin America from the American Society for Microbiology. He will present his Fusarium Laboratory Workshop and offer a scientific writing workshop in Argentina.
Researchers found that the parasitic protozoan Ich hosts two new species of intracellular bacteria: Bacteroides and Rickettsia. These bacteria are usually free-living, but in Ich, they represent a new symbiotic relationship.
Research found that light and photosynthesis aid in bacterial internalization within lettuce leaves. This makes the bacteria impervious to washing and food sanitizers. The study suggests that the increased internalization is due to open stomata allowing nutrient uptake during photosynthesis.
A team of scientists led by U of C grad Casey Hubert detected high numbers of thermophilic bacteria in subzero sediments in the Arctic Ocean. The bacteria may provide a unique opportunity to trace seepages of fluids from hot sub-seafloor habitats and potentially point towards undiscovered offshore petroleum reservoirs.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College have identified new anti-tuberculosis compounds that inhibit the disease-causing bacteria's mechanism for surviving dormant in infected cells. The findings could lead to drugs that destroy TB in its dormant stage, potentially revolutionizing treatment.
Salt-loving algae can be grown on marginal lands with brackish water, producing biofuels 10-30 times more than terrestrial crops. Their growth is non-seasonal, making them suitable for recycling atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Researchers have identified genes in yeast that enable it to respond to stress and are investigating ways to improve its performance by modifying its stress response mechanism. By manipulating these genes, they found a family of enzymes called sirtuins plays an important role in controlling wine yeast lifespan.
Scientists attach light-emitting genes to Listeria monocytogenes bacteria to detect their movement in real-time, revealing path of infection. The technology indicates which bacterial genes are switched on during infection and has potential for vaccine and DNA-delivery vectors.
Researchers found that pathogenic E. coli strains can survive modern food processing methods and exploit different food sources than laboratory strains. They demonstrated differences in growth characteristics, antimicrobial resistance, and reaction to environmental stresses.
Researchers used mixed consortia of bacteria to degrade naphthenic acids, a type of toxic compound found in crude oil and tar sands. The microbes broke down the compounds in just a few days, reducing environmental pollution from these areas.
Researchers have designed probiotics that can bind toxins in the gut, preventing them from interacting with host intestinal cells. These receptor-mimic probiotics offer a promising treatment for diseases such as cholera and traveller's diarrhoea, and may also be used to prevent outbreaks following natural disasters.
Researchers use insects like fruit flies and moths to test new drugs, reducing animal testing by up to 90% and speeding up results. The study finds that insect immune cells are structurally and functionally similar to those in mammals, offering a promising alternative for drug development.
Researchers have identified a three-pronged mechanism of the human immune system attacking fungal yeast cells, including recognition of specific cell wall components and glucan targets. Understanding these interactions could lead to effective immunotherapy and new treatments for patients with weakened immunity.
Scientists have recovered uranium from polluted waters using bacteria and inositol phosphate, a cheap waste material. The process is economically viable, especially as the world price of uranium is likely to increase, offering an environmental protection benefit.
Manuka honey kills MRSA by destroying key bacterial proteins, including FabI essential for fatty acid biosynthesis. The study suggests manuka honey could be used as a first-line treatment for resistant bacteria infections.
Researchers have discovered a strain of bacteria with pilin proteins that can conduct electricity, leading to increased power output in microbial fuel cells. This breakthrough could enable the use of microbial fuel cells in remote environments and monitoring devices, such as ocean floor sensors, to convert waste into electricity.
Research uses bacteria to produce biofilm layers containing biopolymers that act as strong adhesives, resulting in better mechanical strength and surface coverage. The biocoating method could lead to improved bone implant materials with enhanced properties.
Researchers have identified novel bacterial strains capable of breaking down microcystins, a toxin produced by blue-green algae. These bacteria can be used to create a reliable and cost-effective purification system for removing microcystins from contaminated water.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a system that turns harmless bacterium Caulobacter crescentus into a protein production factory, making useful proteins for vaccines and therapeutic purposes. The technology could be used to manufacture HIV-blocking agents cheaply and with minimal expertise.
Dr. Lin's work reveals a modified sexual cycle of C. neoformans with only one mating type, suggesting increased genetic diversity and pathogenic characteristics
Dr. Tobias M. Hohl receives the 2009 ICAAC Young Investigator Award for his groundbreaking work on Aspergillus fumigatus and its interaction with the pulmonary innate immune system. His research has improved understanding of echinocandid mechanisms of action.
The American Society for Microbiology has awarded Dr. Angelika Gründling the ICAAC Young Investigator Award for her groundbreaking work on lipoteichoic acids and holins in bacterial membranes. Her research revealed that holins accumulate in the membrane during infection, leading to a collapse of the potential and formation of holes.
Dr. Nicholas J. White receives the sanofi-aventis ICAAC Award for his work on artemisinin-based combination treatments and reduction of malaria transmissibility, leading to a significant decrease in global malaria morbidity.
Dr. Masopust's work on immunological memory of bacterial and viral pathogens has transformed the field of memory T cell biology. His research demonstrated functional differences between lymphoid and non-lymphoid CD8 memory T cells.
Anton Y. Peleg receives the American Society for Microbiology's ICAAC Young Investigator Award for his groundbreaking work on carbapenemase genes, tigecycline resistance, and prokaryote-eukaryote interactions in multidrug-resistant bacteria.
A special issue of Trends in Microbiology publishes reviews on the Gene Ontology, a powerful language that enables researchers to describe disease-related and beneficial interactions between microbes and their hosts. The Gene Ontology provides a shared vocabulary for scientists to link experimental results to computer-readable language...
Dr. Herman Scholthof, a renowned plant pathology expert, has been awarded the 2009 American Phytopathological Society Fellowship for his distinguished contributions to the field. He is recognized for his notable work in plant pathology and microbiology at Texas A&M University.
Dr. Brian Shaw will receive the 2009 Alexopoulos Prize for his outstanding contributions to plant pathology research, as recognized by the Mycological Society of America. Shaw has authored 17 research papers in 12 years and is jointly appointed with Texas AgriLife Research.
A new study from Stanford University School of Medicine finds that hair sheep blood is a perfect substitute for horse or sheep blood in microbiology tests, reducing costs and improving diagnosis in the developing world. The researchers also discovered that collecting blood in donation bags eliminates the need for defibrination, making ...
Researchers have found a novel bacterium, Herminiimonas glaciei, trapped under glacial ice in Greenland for over 120,000 years. The tiny microbe, 10-50 times smaller than E. coli, has survived in extreme conditions and may provide insights into extraterrestrial life.
A single gene, EBNA1, plays a crucial role in the activation of EBV genes responsible for indiscriminate tumor cell growth. The LSUHSC research team discovered that oxidative stress regulates EBNA1's ability to activate these genes, leading to potential therapeutic approaches using existing treatments like Vitamin K.
A species of bacteria, Brachybacterium sp Mn32, has been found to effectively remove manganese and absorb zinc and nickel from solutions. The bacterium's manganese oxides have a greater surface area, enabling more metal ions to be absorbed, making it a promising candidate for bioremediation and cleaning up heavy metal pollution.
Researchers found that caffeic acid, an anti-inflammatory compound, inhibits colitis in mice by increasing CYP4B1 expression. This normalization of the drug-metabolizing enzyme is associated with reduced colitic damage and inflammation responses.
An experimental vaccine delivered through the skin appears to protect against certain types of ear infections. The study, conducted by researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital, found that transcutaneous immunization effectively prevents experimental ear infections caused by NTHi bacteria.
Researchers have developed new processes using microorganisms to convert organic waste into biodegradable plastics. These bioplastics can be produced at rates up to three times faster than existing processes and have potential applications in various industries.
World-renowned virologist Professor Albert Osterhaus emphasizes the importance of preparedness in the face of swine-origin flu. He stresses that there is room for improvement in influenza vaccine production and that adequate stockpiles of antibiotics, antivirals, and vaccines are crucial for effective treatment.
A novel vaccine strategy using VLPs could provide a more robust immune response and shorter development time compared to traditional vaccines. Researchers have already made VLP vaccines that show complete protection against H5N1 and 1918 influenza viruses.
Researchers are exploring alternative biomasses for microorganisms to ferment into ethanol and other fuels. The goal is to unlock the sugars trapped in cellulosic biomass, making it possible to produce sustainable biofuels.
The study reveals that interleukin-21 is a crucial protein for the cross-talk between killer T-cells and helper T-cells. Its absence leads to failure of the immune system's anti-viral efforts, resulting in uncontrolled infections.
Researchers have isolated a new species of bacteria that can break down cholesterol, a contaminant found in urban sewage residues. The novel organism, Gordonia cholesterolivorans, has the potential to clean up cholesterol-related contamination and could be used for industrial applications.
A study published in Environmental Microbiology reveals that cigarette smoke changes the DNA and membrane proteins of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key bacterial cause of periodontitis. This adaptation affects the immune system's recognition of the pathogen, making smokers more susceptible to oral disease.
Researchers identified 34 genetic markers of influenza infection severity in past outbreaks but found only half of these markers in the current swine-flu strain. The study suggests that the current virus lacks many attributes making previous outbreaks deadly, but more studies are needed for firm conclusions
Researchers found that people with periodontal disease have a higher percentage of TLR4-expressing B cells, which alter the immune response during inflammation. These cells activate monocytes but inactivate B cells, highlighting a new strategy for regulating systemic inflammation.
A new imaging technology uses specially designed dye-containing nanoparticles to simultaneously monitor changes in two intracellular proteins in cancer cells. This could provide a better picture of what's happening in individual tumor cells and potentially improve diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers discovered Nosema ceranae, a Microsporidia parasite, is the primary cause of honey bee colony depopulation syndrome in professional apiaries. Treating infected colonies with flumagillin resulted in complete recovery.
Researchers develop method to target genes in Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite responsible for malaria and diarrhea. The breakthrough enables the creation of safe and effective genetically modified vaccines and drug therapies.
Researchers used probiotics to protect animals from diseases such as mastitis and salmonellosis, demonstrating their potential to prevent and treat human diseases. The study identified specific bacterial species and mechanisms of action that could lead to the development of new treatments.
A natural method of disinfecting mung bean seeds using hot water has been discovered, killing bacterial pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes without reducing germination rates. This method is suitable for organic production systems and could help prevent food poisoning outbreaks.
A new test for invasive aspergillosis (IA) has been developed to detect the deadly fungal infection in patients with damaged or suppressed immune systems. The test uses a monoclonal antibody that binds to a glycoprotein antigen secreted by Aspergillus species, distinguishing it from similar molecules found in antibiotics and foodstuffs.
Researchers developed a targeted antibiotic to kill Porphyromonas gingivalis, a cause of gum disease, without harming other beneficial bacteria. This approach aims to provide new treatments for oral diseases and prevent drug resistance.
A new combination of antimicrobial drugs and peptides has been developed to target MRSA, resulting in a 99.97% kill rate and 1000x increased effectiveness compared to existing treatments. This approach also prevents bacteria from producing toxins and is unlikely to lead to resistance.
A study of 65 female commercial sex workers found that remote screening using tampon-based self-collection was easy and preferred over traditional methods. The method proved to be more accurate in detecting gonorrhoea and Chlamydia, with a higher number of cases identified compared to traditional tests.
Professor Geoffrey Gadd's research explores how microbes interact with metals and minerals, degrading ammunition and transforming pollutants. His work has significant implications for environmental biotechnology and nuclear decommissioning.
Researchers at UCL Eastman Dental Institute have developed a light-activated antibacterial coating that can kill 99.9% of E. coli bacteria when exposed to white light. The coating, made of titanium dioxide with added nitrogen, has shown promise in reducing hospital-acquired infections.
A year-long study found that frequent handwashing by hospital staff and visitors significantly reduced MRSA transmission rates. The study's results suggest that isolating infected patients may not be the most effective strategy for controlling MRSA superbug infections.
Researchers have developed a new generation of natural antibiotics using bioengineering, targeting harmful micro-organisms like MRSA and Listeria monocytogenes. These enhanced nisin variants possess greater activities against clinical pathogens and could become acceptable alternatives to current antimicrobials.
Rising temperatures and mild winters have led to increased outbreaks of bluetongue and other insect-transmitted viruses in European livestock, with devastating consequences for ruminants. The UK successfully suppressed a major outbreak in 2008, but new virus types pose ongoing threats to the region.
A healthy diet is linked to a reduced risk of colon cancer due to the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids. The composition of diet directly influences the diversity of microbes in the gut, with complex carbohydrates supporting good bacterial populations.
A study found 46 different species of bacteria in newborn babies' stomach contents, including two not typically found in the body. Improved dental hygiene may help reduce pregnancy complications and infections in newborns
A study by Wan Li Low and colleagues found that combining low concentrations of tea tree oil and silver increases antimicrobial activity against pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. This method allows for controlled release and may lead to safer, over-the-counter antiseptic compounds.