Research on infections caused by bacteria and how to fight them. Covers antibiotic resistance, biofilms, congenital syphilis, Lyme disease, and precise treatments.
A new study found that silver-impregnated PVC foil significantly reduces levels of contamination on high-touch surfaces in hospitals. Clinically important bacteria, including Enterococci, were less likely to be present on foil-covered surfaces.
Researchers discovered that viral expansions can transition from 'pulled' to 'pushed', where the expansion is driven by viruses arising behind the front, retaining genetic diversity for longer. This finding suggests that viral populations in infected organisms may be more adaptable than previously thought.
Research suggests that common prescription drugs like proton pump inhibitors, beta-blockers, and antimetabolites can increase the risk of developing antibiotic-resistant infections. These non-antibiotic medications are commonly used to treat various conditions but can also contribute to drug resistance.
A study analyzing over 1,200 VA outpatient clinics found a 3.9% annual decline in total antibiotic prescriptions between 2011 and 2018. The largest decrease was seen for ciprofloxacin, while outpatient use of doxycycline, azithromycin, and amoxicillin/clavulanate remained high.
Researchers have discovered Yersinia pestis infection in two medieval graves in Southern Italy, providing the first genetic evidence of the Black Death's arrival in the region. The analysis of ancient DNA from the teeth of the victims confirms that they died from plague or other infectious diseases during the second pandemic.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered an enzyme inhibitor, Q-VD-OPH, that boosts the immune system to fight antibiotic-resistant MRSA and other skin infections. The treatment works by reducing apoptosis of neutrophils and monocytes, leaving them in plentiful numbers to remove bacteria.
Scientists have found a way to artificially produce healthy mucus, which could lead to new medical treatments and therapies. The discovery is particularly promising for the treatment of diseases related to intestinal flora, such as infections and eye infections.
A new study found that COVID-19 infection rates among infants hospitalized for potential serious bacterial infections were higher during periods of high community transmission, but lower when transmission was low. The study also found a relatively low incidence of other respiratory viruses in this age group.
Scientists discovered the oldest strain of Yersinia pestis in a 20- to 30-year-old man from 5,000 years ago. The ancient bacteria was less contagious and deadly than its medieval version, transmitted primarily through animal bites. This finding challenges long-held theories on the development of human civilization in Europe and Asia.
Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry found that phage potency is affected by container material, leading to reduced efficacy. The study highlights the importance of using specific containers with controlled surface properties to maintain phage concentration.
Researchers at IU School of Medicine have made a breakthrough in treating and preventing kidney infections by utilizing the kidneys' own internal infection-fighting capabilities. The study found that intercalated cells can consume bacteria and secrete acid, offering a potential alternative to antibiotics.
Scientists discovered a molecule, Castaneroxy A, extracted from chestnut leaves that neutralizes dangerous staph bacteria, including MRSA. The compound, found only in tiny quantities in the leaves, disables toxin production and enables skin to heal rapidly.
The study of Mycobacterium tuberculosis's ESX-5 secretion system reveals a complex molecular machinery that enables the bacterium to infect human cells. The structure of this system provides potential drug targets and new insights into vaccine development.
Researchers at McMaster University developed a hand-held rapid test for bacterial infections that can produce accurate results in under an hour. The test distinguishes between treatable and resistant bacteria, helping to combat antimicrobial resistance.
Research from Anglia Ruskin University found that common artificial sweeteners like saccharin and sucralose can make previously healthy gut bacteria pathogenic. The study discovered that these pathogenic bacteria can invade intestinal cells and cause damage.
Researchers have uncovered a novel strategy employed by MRSA to evade the immune response, causing toxic effects on white blood cells. A mutated protein-based vaccine shows promise in preventing such toxicity, suggesting a potential cure for deadly MRSA infections.
Researchers have identified a novel virulence trait of Streptococcus pneumoniae that increases the severity of S. pneumoniae superinfection following flu. The surface protein PspA, previously known to have several other virulence mechanisms, now functions as an adhesin to dying lung epithelial cells. This finding provides further expla...
A 29-year-old woman was hospitalized with sepsis 14 months after a dermal filler injection, revealing rare bacterial causes and increasing awareness of the need for cosmetic patients and healthcare professionals.
Researchers at HKU have identified 38 authentic Ag+-binding proteins in Staphylococcus aureus, revealing silver's molecular targets and mode of action. The study shows that silver-based antimicrobials can potentiate the efficacy of antibiotics, resensitize MRSA to antibiotics, and slow down antibiotic resistance evolution.
A UNIGE team has identified an RNA helicase regulator in Pseudomonas aeruginosa that significantly reduces its infectious power and virulence. The absence of this protein makes the bacteria almost harmless while remaining alive.
Researchers have developed a new technique, native state mass spectrometry, to identify effective inhibitors against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This approach analyzes the behavior of metallo-beta-lactamase inhibitors and could lead to the development of novel treatments for resistant infections.
Researchers have identified a unique binding site between Clostridioides difficile toxin B and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4, revealing a potential therapeutic avenue for combating hypervirulent strains. A CSPG4-mimicking decoy could neutralize major TcdB variants, offering a superior alternative to existing antibody therapeutics.
Researchers discovered a stem cell-mediated defense mechanism that reactivates dormant tuberculosis in mice infected with SARS-CoV-2, suggesting potential for new vaccines and avoiding global TB pandemic. This discovery may help develop novel therapeutic approaches against COVID-19 and target antiviral activities.
Using a computer-aided, multi-material 3D-printing method, researchers have created custom healthcare devices with tailored shapes and functions to enhance patient wellbeing. The technique offers a solution for mass-produced medical devices by providing bespoke designs that can improve comfort and durability.
Researchers at Flinders University have discovered that fish oil fatty acids can render bacteria more susceptible to antibiotics. This discovery is vital in combating the rise of superbugs with unprecedented levels of antibiotic resistance.
A novel liquid surface coating on human catheters could help reduce protein deposition that leads to urinary tract and bloodstream infections. The research explores the development of liquid-infused catheter surfaces for controlling protein deposition.
A study revealed that Staphylococcus saprophyticus can originate from food, particularly meat production, and is a major cause of urinary tract infections in young women. The bacteria's transmission occurs between persons within the community, emphasizing the importance of hygiene practices to prevent infectious diseases.
Researchers have discovered that pre-trained phages can increase their ability to fight bacterial infections, delaying the onset of antibiotic resistance. This breakthrough uses evolutionary training to improve phage potency against deadly bacteria.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed chemical probes to detect an enzyme that breaks down antibiotics, making bacteria resistant to treatment. The probes can also be used to study nutritional immunity and may help find alternative treatments for resistant bacteria.
According to NIH scientists, Salmonella bacteria establish a foothold in the GI tract by hijacking intestinal epithelial cell response, driving colonization and fecal shedding. This process fuels the bacteria's ability to invade neighboring cells and seed the intestine for transmission.
A new gene cluster in Staphylococcus epidermidis enables the bacteria to produce structures that allow them to attach to human cells and form a persistent infection. This discovery could lead to better treatments or vaccinations against methicillin-resistant S. aureus.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that a higher BMI is associated with improved survival rates in patients hospitalized for severe bacterial infections. In the short and long term, patients with higher BMIs had significantly lower mortality rates compared to those with normal weights.
Researchers have shown that CRISPR-Cas components are physically linked, enabling efficient updates of immune memory when infected by mutant viruses. This link allows bacteria to efficiently adapt and interfere with viral infections.
Campylobacter infections can be transmitted through fecal-oral contact, particularly among men who have sex with men. The study found the rate of infection was 14 times higher in this group than control subjects.
A study by UT Southwestern researchers reveals that a protein called gasdermin B (GSDMB) is killed by the infectious bacteria Shigella flexneri, which tags GSDMB with a chemical tag for destruction. This discovery could lead to new antibiotics and treatments for inflammatory diseases such as asthma and Type 1 diabetes.
A new study suggests that hexanoic acid could be a suitable substitute for chemical protection in citrus cultivation, addressing concerns about the impact of old-school defenses on food safety. Researchers believe this fatty acid may help protect against diseases like canker, which causes brownish lesions on leaves and fruit.
A new study published in Nature Medicine proposes that microbes exist as networks, driving frequent flare-ups in patients with bronchiectasis. The research team analyzed over 400 respiratory samples and found negative interactions between microbes contributing to infection severity.
Photodynamic therapy has shown promising results in treating respiratory tract infections and some types of cancer. Adding antibodies to the treatment can increase its efficacy, making it an attractive option for rapid responses to pandemics. The new approach uses viral antibodies attached to light-absorbing molecules to target viruses...
COVID-19 patients are at risk of developing another bacterial, viral, or fungal infection simultaneously or subsequently. Research reveals that such co-infections can lead to poorer health outcomes for these patients.
Researchers at Monash University have engineered a new antimicrobial surface that significantly reduces bacterial attachment and biofilm formation on medical instruments, including urinary catheters. The surface, with smooth 3D micro features, effectively combats the three most common UTI-causing bacteria.
Researchers have developed a novel nanotechnology that can improve the effectiveness of the CF antibiotic Tobramycin, increasing its efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections. The technology has shown to eradicate infections in as little as two doses, providing new hope for people living with cystic fibrosis.
Researchers conducted a comprehensive health assessment of gopher tortoises, finding that 42.9% had circulating antibodies to Mycoplasma agassizii, indicating an outbreak at one site. The study provides important baseline data on emerging pathogens and highlights the need for further surveillance.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new hydrogel material that prevents infections in wounds, effective against all types of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant ones. The material uses antimicrobial peptides and is promising for combating global health threats.
A randomized controlled trial found that brief educational videos can reduce patients' expectations for antibiotic treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. However, the doctors' actual prescribing habits showed no significant change.
Researchers tracked antibiotic resistance in E. coli over 16 years, finding rapid increase in multi-drug resistant strains. The study highlights the importance of tracking resistant bacteria to prevent their spread and improve treatment options.
Researchers developed a microneedle patch that delivers vancomycin directly into the affected skin area, significantly reducing MRSA bacterial population. This innovative approach aims to transform the treatment of skin infections by improving quality of life for patients.
Researchers identify key protein MavQ that helps Legionella bacteria set up house in human cells, remodeling endoplasmic reticulum to create protective dwellings. This discovery could lead to new treatments for various infections.
University of Florida researchers have demonstrated a novel approach to triggering immunity against salmonella, using extracellular vesicles (EVs) that contain antigens from the bacteria. In mice, these EVs induced both innate and adaptive immune responses, offering a promising direction for developing a vaccine.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center developed a gene expression method that can quickly identify the source of respiratory symptoms. The test has been shown to be accurate in distinguishing between viral and bacterial infections, with results available in under an hour, improving clinical care.
Researchers have developed a new model of NTM lung infection and found that human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are effective in treating this condition. The study identified donor-specific hMSC potency against NTMs, which could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients with chronic NTM lung disease.
A recent study found that c-Jun and JunB proteins play a crucial role in the development of Type 1 dendritic cells, which are essential for defending against bacteria and viruses. The discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches for cancers and viral infections.
A systematic review found no conclusive evidence on portable air filters' ability to reduce respiratory infections, including COVID-19. Two studies did demonstrate capture of airborne bacteria and reduced bacterial counts, but not viral particles or a reduction in incidence.
A recent study has tracked the evolution of a multi-drug resistant organism in cystic fibrosis patients, revealing that it can evolve rapidly within an individual during chronic infection. The researchers emphasize the importance of treating patients with M. abscessus infection immediately.
A new study published in PLOS Pathogens found that mice fed a Western-style diet high in processed foods and low in fiber developed persistent infections that led to inflammation and insulin resistance. The researchers suggest that altering gut microbiota through diet may be a means of promoting health.
Researchers developed nanobodies that target a protein making Ehrlichia chaffeensis bacteria infectious. In mice experiments, the treatment showed significantly lower levels of bacteria two weeks after infection.
Researchers found that metformin inhibited the spread of Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) in three study models, including cell cultures and mouse models. The treatment reduced C. diff proliferation and increased the growth of closely related nonpathogenic bacteria.
A Phase 2b trial will test Dalbavancin for safety and efficacy in treating complicated S. aureus bacteremia in hospitalized adults. The study aims to validate a dalbavancin regimen of one dose a week for two weeks, potentially leading to a shorter and less invasive treatment.
New research from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology analyzes the impact of a bird eye disease on house finch populations, revealing an escalating arms race between the birds' immune systems and bacterial strains. The study suggests that imperfect immunity is driving this battle, with bacteria evolving to overcome strengthened finch defenses.
Researchers develop nanoparticles that penetrate human cells and destroy bacteria, offering new hope against antibiotic resistance. The particles use cerium oxide to create reactive oxygen species that kill germs, reducing the likelihood of resistance development.
A Georgia State University professor has received a $2.3 million grant to investigate the role of inflammation in otitis media, an infection of the middle ear. The goal is to develop novel anti-inflammatory therapeutics and improve hearing outcomes.