Researchers have discovered a way to block the VCC-1 enzyme, which disables a new antibiotic resistance gene found in benign Vibrio cholerae strains. The discovery uses Avibactam, a US FDA-approved combination drug, to effectively combat the resistant bacteria.
A new experimental antibiotic AN12855 has been shown to be more effective against tuberculosis than isoniazid, a decades-old drug. In mouse studies, the new drug demonstrated a much lower tendency to develop resistance and remained in tissues where Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria reside for longer, killing them more effectively.
Researchers at Mount Sinai found that dengue virus infection can enhance the severity of Zika virus infection during pregnancy, leading to increased placental damage, fetal growth restriction, and fetal resorption. This mechanism may explain the high rate of microcephaly and birth defects observed in recent Zika outbreaks.
Studies show that lactic acid bacteria positively impact coffee fermentation, yielding fruity notes and enhancing flavor. Microbial communities also affect the build-up of fermentation-related metabolites on coffee beans, influencing overall quality.
USC scientists have made groundbreaking discoveries about a tick-borne virus, including its molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. The research could lead to the development of medications and a vaccine to prevent or treat hemorrhagic fever.
A team of investigators from the University of Pittsburgh has identified compounds that block the reactivation of latent HIV-1 in a human cell line. The research, published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, found 12 kinase inhibitors that irreversibly blocked HIV-1 reactivation with minimal toxicity.
A combination therapy of polymyxin B/trimethoprim has shown promising results against bacterial keratitis, a leading cause of blindness. The treatment eradicated infections in 70% of animal models and showed a low rate of spontaneous resistance.
A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that antibiotic-resistant E. coli bacteria in wild giraffes most likely come from anthropogenic sources. The research suggests that young giraffes are more likely to harbor resistant bacteria, potentially due to competition between strains.
Scientists have discovered a compound that strongly inhibits botulinum neurotoxin, potentially reversing paralysis caused by the toxin. Nitrophenyl psoralen, identified through high-throughput screening of natural compounds, shows powerful anti-botulinum toxin activity with low toxicity to human cells.
Researchers in Belgium have identified an additional inoculation source for lambic beer production, the wooden casks or foeders. The microbial compositions of these surfaces differed statistically based on barrel cleaning procedures and type, reflecting different characteristics of lambic barrels.
Researchers developed a virus nanoparticle vaccine against anthrax and plague, providing complete protection in animal models. The dual vaccine was effective even when animals were exposed to lethal doses of both pathogens.
A recent study used an artificial intestine to investigate how changes in diet affect the microbiome. The research found that a switch from a western diet to one composed exclusively of dietary fats led to increased populations of fatty-acid metabolizing bacteria and decreased production of short chain fatty acids, which are compounds ...
Researchers found that the microbiome can detect exposure to banned nerve agents like soman by identifying specific bacterial and plant species. These signatures of exposure persist for at least 72 hours after exposure and can be detected non-invasively, making it possible to identify exposed individuals before symptoms develop.
A new bacterial strain, Staphylococcus cornubiensis, has been identified from a skin infection in Cornwall. The strain is genetically unique and likely belongs to the Staphylococcus intermedius group, which is also associated with pets.
Jizhong Zhou receives the 2019 American Society for Microbiology Award for Environmental Research for groundbreaking discoveries in microbial ecology and environmental genomics. His work has transformed our understanding of microbial biodiversity and ecosystem functions.
Research published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that probiotics increased the severity of cryptosporidiosis in mice, defying initial hypotheses. The study suggests that manipulating gut microbiota may hold potential for developing probiotics to mitigate the disease.
A new understanding of thawing permafrost in Sweden could improve predictions and guide efforts to slow climate damage. Scientists have identified more than 1,500 microbial genomes and 1,900 new viral populations, shedding light on the role of microbes in methane production.
Researchers developed a new approach to measuring recreational water quality, focusing on the quantity and type of mammalian feces in the water. They found that ecosystem-specific characteristics, such as freshwater sediment and estuary transport, also play a significant role in determining enterococci concentrations.
A recent study found that antibiotic susceptibility assays may yield unreliable results due to variations in inoculum levels. The findings suggest that clinical microbiology laboratories must adhere closely to standardized methods and target inoculum levels to obtain accurate testing results.
A simple sampling method using swabs from environmental surfaces has been shown to detect viral genetic material in foot and mouth disease outbreaks. This method can be easily performed by smallholder farmers without clinical expertise, providing an effective tool for early detection.
A new lab diagnosis guide from IDSA and ASM aims to help healthcare providers accurately diagnose infectious diseases with rapid molecular testing. The guide provides detailed guidance on test selection, specimen collection, and laboratory management to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Research reveals that lytic bacteriophages contribute to PD by reducing neurotransmitter-producing bacteria, and may be a diagnostic and treatment target.
Researchers discovered a carbapenem-resistant, hypermucoviscous Klebsiella pneumoniae isolate with enhanced virulence and colistin heteroresistance from a patient in the US. The bacteria's increased virulence poses a significant threat to healthcare settings.
A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found a surplus of pathogenic bacteria in placentas from premature births, supporting the hypothesis that maternal infection may cause preterm birth. The research also discovered evidence of placental bacteria in healthy pregnancies, challenging conventional wisdom.
Researchers discovered a new resistance mechanism in Acinetobacter baumannii that blocks the critical antibiotic colistin. The mechanism involves disruption of the hns gene by an insertion sequence element, leading to increased expression of genes that boost colistin resistance.
Research reveals tampons, particularly those made from cotton and rayon, can foster Staphylococcus aureus growth and production of toxic shock toxin. Menstrual cups may harbor bacteria more effectively, increasing risk.
Researchers found that West Nile virus reemerged in Greece in 2017 after a two-year hiatus, causing 45 cases of infection, primarily in southern regions. The study highlights the importance of mosquito management and public education to prevent transmission, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Research found that chlorine can make foodborne pathogens undetectable by standard laboratory culture techniques. Chlorine-induced states enable some bacteria to survive and potentially cause disease. The study's findings have significant implications for food safety, biocidal products, and post-BREXIT trade agreements.
A team of investigators found the mcr-1 drug resistance gene in Shigella flexneri, a common cause of diarrhea globally. The gene was detected on a transferable plasmid and can jump to other bacteria, raising concerns about its potential spread.
Jizhong Zhou, a renowned researcher at OU, has made significant contributions to understanding the role of microbes in environment, climate change. He is recognized by the ESA Fellowship, reflecting the quality of OU's faculty, students, and staff.
Research in mice and tissue cultures suggests that vitamin C enhances the killing power of first-line TB drugs, isoniazid and rifampicin. The combination reduces organ burdens faster than the drugs alone, with a potential to shorten TB chemotherapy duration.
A team of Norwegian researchers has developed a tool to monitor bacterial strains in cheese cultures, enabling prompt detection and countermeasures to maintain quality. The tool uses next-generation sequencing to analyze the epsD gene, which is involved in resisting phage and producing exopolysaccharide.
A team of Italian investigators found that commercial starter culture produced sausages with higher acidity, but inferior taste, as compared to spontaneous fermentation. The study used Next Generation Sequencing techniques and gas chromatography with mass spectrometry to analyze the microorganisms and metabolic pathways involved.
Research suggests that antibiotic use in mothers may alter the microbiome of their offspring, increasing the risk for inflammatory bowel disease. The study, published in Nature Microbiology, found that exposure to antibiotics can change the mix of bacterial species in maternal microbes, which are then passed on to their children.
Researchers have developed nanosponges that can absorb and neutralize toxins secreted by bacteria causing intraocular infections. These engineered nanoparticles, consisting of a polymeric core surrounded by natural red blood cell membranes, demonstrated effectiveness in protecting the retina from damage in animal models.
Research suggests that perinatal BPA exposure can lead to reduced gut bacterial diversity and elevated gut permeability, resulting in chronic colon and liver inflammation. Early correction of gut dysbiosis induced by environmental toxins may reduce the risk for chronic diseases later in life.
A study on swine farm volunteers found that levels of MRSA in nasal passages became virtually undetectable after two hours of exposure. Airborne transmission was the primary route of infection, not direct physical contact with animals. The risk of transmission to non-farm dwellers is considered negligible due to this decline.
Researchers discovered two predator bacteria, Vampirovibrio and Bdellovibrio, in cystic fibrosis patients' lungs, which may prevent colonization of disease-associated bacteria. The findings indicate a more complex lung microbiota than previously thought.
Scientists have discovered that the Ebola virus directly interacts with T-cells and specifically Tim-1, triggering a cytokine storm. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms of Ebola infection and offers potential targets for therapeutic strategies to reduce the severity of the disease.
Research finds that antibiotic use on people or pets, and biocidal cleaning products like bleach, contribute to MRSA multidrug resistance in the home environment. The presence of domestic pets and unwanted pests is also associated with multidrug-resistant strains.
The Xpert Ultra assay overcomes limitations of the current test, providing more reliable detection of Rifampicin resistance and significantly improving tuberculosis detection in patients with pauci-bacillary disease. The new assay format includes gene target amplifications that enhance previously amplified targets.
A study published in mSphere reveals that three Klebsiella species can cause severe infections in hospital patients, with all three sharing genes that confer resistance to commonly used antibiotics. This finding expands the understanding of Klebsiella infections and highlights the need for new treatments.
Researchers studied changes in oral bacterial communities after death and found similar successional changes in three cadavers. The aim is to use these changes to estimate time since death based on the newly set environmental conditions.
The article highlights the urgent need for specialist health workers to promote appropriate antibiotic use, improve diagnosis and treatment of infections, and prevent drug-resistant bacteria. The proposed multidisciplinary teams should be made up of infectious diseases specialists, clinical microbiologists, nurses, and pharmacists.
Researchers found that maternal antibodies against HSV-1 can travel to the nervous systems of unborn babies, preventing the development and spread of infection during birth. This protection may help prevent serious brain disease related to these conditions in fetuses and newborns.
Researchers have discovered a new mobile colistin resistance gene, mcr-3, in Escherichia coli of pig origin, which may already be widely disseminated. The prevalence of mcr-3 is likely underestimated due to potential transfer between bacterial species.
Three species of fungus can produce aerosolized toxins that can be inhaled, raising concerns about indoor air quality. Researchers found that mycotoxins are present on fungal spores and tiny particles, which could be easily inhaled.
Researchers have generated both novel and existing antibiotic resistance mechanisms in soil exposed to specific antibiotics. The study found 36 antibiotic resistance genes, including some multi-drug efflux pumps that pump antibiotics out of bacteria.
Research finds that soft shelled turtles in China are spreading cholera due to the presence of Vibrio cholerae pathogens. The study used bioluminescent proteins to observe the bacteria's colonization on the turtles' surfaces and intestines.
A new rapid molecular test for Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections allowed doctors and pharmacists to start targeted therapy sooner, leading to shorter hospital stays and lower readmission rates. This approach also resulted in a reduction of antibiotic usage.
Researchers found that capsaicin in red chili prevents microbial dysbiosis and gut barrier dysfunction, leading to reduced inflammation and obesity. The study suggests that the gut microbiome plays a critical role in the anti-obesity effects of capsaicin.
The lack of access to essential antibiotics, particularly for treating sick babies and children, is a pressing concern. The high costs involved in registering medicines in multiple countries are the primary cause of this issue, combined with the relatively small market for these antibiotics.
A UK research team found Campylobacter on nearly half of the boots worn by volunteer walkers in countryside areas, with prevalence varying by region and season. The study used a novel method to assess human/pathogen interactions, providing insights into potential routes of infection.
Research found that plague bacteria Yersinia pestis can survive within amoebae, using proteins to avoid being digested. This discovery has implications for predicting disease re-emergence and may lead to new strategies for controlling the spread of plague.
A new study published in Clinical Microbiology and Infection found that almost all women with uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) had evidence of bacterial infection, including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. This suggests that traditional urine testing may not be necessary for women with UTI symptoms.
Research published in Infection and Immunity found that Giardia infection changed the mouse microbiome, leading to more aerobic bacteria and less diversity of anaerobic species. The study suggests that Giardia may be an ecological disease that disrupts the gut's stable ecology.
A new study found that certain bacterial species and fungal families are present in both land-based sources and coral reefs, suggesting invasion. The researchers used high-throughput DNA sequencing to analyze water samples from coastal inlets, sewage treatment plants, and coral tissues.
A breakthrough has been made in preventing biofilm formation by staphylococci on medical devices. The research team discovered a small blocking molecule that targets the SdrC protein, stopping bacterial attachment and growth.
A recent study reveals that rare microbial species, making up only 1% of the community, contribute significantly to ecosystem functioning. These species hold a large reservoir of genes that can degrade organic pollutants, enabling the community to maintain stability in the face of changing conditions.
Research reveals bacterial spread from drainpipes to patients occurs via a staged mode of transmission, with colonies growing towards sink strainers before splattering onto surfaces.