Researchers found that zinc supplements can inhibit the transfer of AMR plasmids, reducing the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections. The study provides hope for developing an inexpensive and effective method to combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.
A new study has discovered a novel semi-synthetic compound derived from natural compounds that exhibits potent activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, including multi-drug resistant strains. The compound, BPD-9, provides a promising chemical scaffold for developing new anti-tuberculosis drugs.
Researchers found that certain proteins called killer toxins produced by brewer's yeast can suppress diastatic strains and prevent spoilage. Adding these killer yeasts at the point of contamination may be a remediation procedure to curb the issue.
A common skin fungus, Malassezia globosa, may invade deep tissues and cause tumor growth in breast cancer, according to a new study published in mBio. The researchers found that M. globosa colonizes in breast fat pads leading to tumor growth, suggesting a potential link between fungal colonization and cancer progression.
Research finds that climate change can promote Salmonella survival and internalization in romaine lettuce, making it a significant food safety issue. Climate change is predicted to increase humid periods, enhancing the ability of Salmonella to grow rapidly in lettuce.
A new universal flu vaccine candidate has shown strong immune response and protection against severe infection in mice. The vaccine, developed using the COBRA methodology, targets multiple strains of influenza viruses, including H1N1, H3N2, and H5N1, which pose a high risk to humans.
Researchers tested hundreds of milk products from dozens of states and found no infectious H5N1 virus, but detected viral genetic material in 20% of samples.
Researchers have detected anaerobic and aerobic bacteria in commercial tattoo and permanent makeup inks, indicating a potential source of human infections. The study found that around 35% of tattoo or permanent makeup inks sold in the US were contaminated with bacteria, highlighting the importance of monitoring these products.
Researchers have identified Stomoxys flies as carriers of pathogenic bacteria that cause bovine mastitis. The study found that these bacteria are more abundant in the fly gut than in manure samples, suggesting a link between insect bites and disease transmission.
Researchers found that nasal microbiota of ICU patients with sepsis is significantly lower in community richness and has distinct compositions compared to non-septic patients. Key bacterial genera such as Corynebacterium, Staphylococcus, Acinetobacter, and Pseudomonas were enriched in the nasal microbiota of septic patients.
A new study combines bisphosphonates, commonly used for osteoporosis, with azole antifungals to treat fungal infections. The combination effectively targets dermatophytes and prevents resistance development.
Researchers found that matcha mouthwash significantly reduced levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis in saliva samples from people with periodontitis. Matcha's bactericidal activity against the pathogen was confirmed through lab experiments.
A recent study found highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in 6 city birds in New York City, collected through a community involvement program. The researchers found the virus belonged to two different genotypes and highlighted the critical role urban wildlife rehabilitation centers play in viral surveillance.
Scientists have discovered a positive relationship between calcium concentrations and potato plant resistance to bacterial wilt. Calcium supplementation can significantly reduce the growth rate of the pathogen and negatively affect its ability to form biofilms and move.
Researchers found that copper beads in pig feed reduced microbial pathogens, but unexpectedly increased Enterobacteriaceae levels, suggesting a more complex impact on the gut microbiome. The study aimed to improve animal health before slaughter by enhancing gut health through pre-harvest interventions.
Researchers have identified specific gut microbiota signatures associated with KRAS mutations in colorectal cancer. The study suggests that these microbes may serve as non-invasive biomarkers for identifying subtypes of CRC and inform personalized treatment approaches.
A new study published in Microbiology Spectrum shows that an enzymatic cocktail can effectively kill a variety of mycobacterial species, including those causing tuberculosis. The research delivers the enzymes inside host macrophages where mycobacteria grow, increasing efficacy and reducing toxicities associated with current treatments.
Researchers have developed a cost-effective approach for identifying L. pneumophila using whole genome sequencing, which can analyze available specimens without culturing. This method has already been used to identify the source of deadly Legionnaires' disease outbreaks, including a 2015 outbreak in New York City.
A new study has identified the role of microbes in regulating coral thermal bleaching susceptibility, revealing that heat-tolerant Symbiodiniaceae dominate microbial communities on Huangyan Island. Increased fungal diversity and pathogen abundance are associated with higher coral thermal bleaching susceptibility.
Researchers found unique bacteria taxa in normal-weight children vs overweight/obese children, suggesting BPA promotes different microbial communities. Gut microbiota responds differently to BPA exposure depending on BMI.
Researchers found that streams with ample groundwater connections have greater microbial diversity and are more effective at preventing toxic metal entry. They also better detoxify existing metals.
Researchers found that warmer water edges out antibiotic-resistant bacteria from wastewater in natural biofilms, suggesting a defense mechanism against their spread. The study suggests temperature can influence microbial competition in rivers.
A new study found that changes in the mother's gut microbiome during pregnancy may influence the immune system's response. The research showed altered levels of cytokines and metabolites, which could lead to a suppressed immune system during pregnancy.
Researchers found that tomato juice can kill Salmonella Typhi and other enteric pathogens by impairing their bacterial membrane. The study identified two effective antimicrobial peptides in tomatoes that can eliminate these harmful bacteria.
Researchers identified two probiotic strains that promote weight loss in obese dogs. The strains, Enterococcus faecium IDCC 2102 and Bifidobacterium lactis IDCC 4301, reduced body fat percentage and improved intestinal microflora balance in dogs fed a high-fat diet.
A new study reveals that bacteria associated with gum disease promote COPD through the activation of γδ T cells and M2 macrophages in the immune system. Researchers found that mice infected with periodontitis and COPD had worse progression, highlighting a potential new strategy for treating COPD.
A study on cockroaches reveals that they can transmit antimicrobial resistance genes to each other through direct contact and habitat interactions. The findings suggest that the transmission of AMR genes is not limited to antibiotic overuse, but also occurs between animals carrying genes in their microbiomes.
Researchers found correlations between flaxseed diets and changes in the gut microbiome and mammary gland miRNA profiles. Flaxseed lignans were shown to modify the relationship between the microbiota and miRNAs to be non-cancer causing.
A study published in mSystems found that mice fed a broccoli sprout diet had milder disease symptoms and richer gut microbial communities compared to those not exposed. The researchers suggest that broccoli sprouts could be used as a treatment strategy for patients with IBD.
A new study reveals that the coral microbiome changes after just 48 hours when oxygen levels drop, with some bacteria increasing in abundance. The research suggests that changes in the microbiome may influence coral resilience to low oxygen conditions and warming seas.
Researchers used AI to identify 2 promising antigens as candidates for a gonorrhea vaccine, which accurately predicted reduction of bacterial populations. The antigens were tested in lab and animal models, showing efficacy in killing bacteria and decreasing bacterial burden.
Researchers identified two fungus strains, Cyberlindnera jadinii and Kluyveromyces lactis, with potential probiotic effects on gut inflammation. These strains may offer a new way to develop probiotics and treat inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Recent studies suggest that probiotics may offer a protective effect against hypertension, but the exact mechanisms are unclear. A new study identifies two probiotic strains, Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, as promising treatments for high blood pressure.
Researchers found blue light kills both dried cells and biofilms of Listeria monocytogenes, a frequent contaminant of food processing facilities. The pathogen's demise occurred quickest on polystyrene surfaces.
A portable laboratory device can rapidly detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA from environmental surfaces, holding promise for scenarios where access to testing labs is challenging. The device uses a compact centrifuge and PCR technology to provide highly sensitive on-site detection.
A study suggests that dispersal plays a major role in microbial succession after a fire. Researchers found that the emerging microbial communities in the soil surface changed with the seasons and plant reappearance, driven by dispersal. Dispersal from air contributed significantly to microbes entering the soil surface.
A newly discovered virus has been isolated from deep-sea sediment, providing insights into the diversity and evolution of viruses in extreme environments. The bacteriophage, which infects bacteria in the phylum Halomonas, is believed to be one of the most abundant life forms on the planet.
A study published in mSystems found associations between the gut microbiome and eczema in infancy, with alterations in gut bacteria preceding eczema development. The research revealed changes in gut microbiota composition and diversity over the first 3 years of life, influenced by mode of delivery and feeding patterns.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, gastrointestinal viruses such as norovirus and adenovirus remained at very low levels for nearly 2 years. However, they surged back to pre-pandemic levels in late 2022, with adenovirus F40/41 increasing by two-fold.
A combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus strains successfully inhibited the production of superantigens causing toxic shock syndrome. Probiotics may also prevent growth of Staphylococcus aureus, a virulent strain that produces proteins triggering the disease.
Researchers identified 8 bacterial genera commonly associated with environmental sources, known as core microbiota, which persisted despite differences between kitchens. These microbes were linked to kitchen design and cleaning practices, suggesting potential for improved hygiene.
Researchers developed a model of the blood-brain barrier to prevent newborn meningitis treatment, with a 50% mortality rate in developing countries. The organ-on-a-chip platform enables rapid and accurate testing of drugs for safety and efficacy, promising to improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers discovered a probiotic that can convert toxic mercury into less harmful forms, reducing neurological damage and improving iron absorption. The probiotic uses genes from a resistant bacteria to detoxify methylmercury, a neurotoxin found in fish-based diets.
A new study by researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that an orally administered probiotic bacterial strain improved dry eye disease in an animal model. The probiotic, Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM17938, enhanced corneal health and increased goblet cell production in the eyes, suggesting potential treatment benefits.
Researchers found commercially available antifungal tests perform inadequately in identifying Candida auris susceptibility to various treatments. The findings highlight the need for improved testing methods to aid clinical decisions and improve patient care.
Researchers found a significant increase in Candida auris bloodstream infections between 2021 and 2023, rising from 0.014% to 0.057%. The discovery highlights the ongoing challenge of antimicrobial-resistant C. auris and emphasizes the need for continued public health interventions.
Researchers found that intravenous treatment with MK-3402, a metallo-beta-lactamase inhibitor, can effectively fight antimicrobial resistance in certain bacteria. The studies suggest that dosing three times per day provides adequate blood levels to block bacterial enzymes.
A new study published in Microbiology Spectrum found that cats are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 and can spread the virus to other cats and their environment. The infected cats' environments were also found to be infectious, but this infectiousness decays rapidly.
Researchers have found that honokiol, a compound from magnolia tree bark, inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication in several cell types, reducing infectious particle production. The compound also shows broad-spectrum activity against other highly pathogenic coronaviruses.
Researchers have discovered that extremophilic bacteria from high-temperature marine environments can be used to remove iron, silicon, and magnesium from asbestos minerals, reducing their toxicity. This finding has the potential to develop new methods for detoxifying and reusing asbestos as a secondary raw material.