Research on infections caused by bacteria and how to fight them. Covers antibiotic resistance, biofilms, congenital syphilis, Lyme disease, and precise treatments.
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh have identified a new mechanism of resistance to common antibiotics, targeting a special repair system possessed by certain bacteria. This discovery could aid efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance, one of the world's most urgent health challenges.
A Phase 2a clinical trial demonstrated the efficacy of an intravenous bacteriophage therapy in treating complicated Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. The treatment showed encouraging results and was safe for patients with this serious bacterial infection.
A recurring seasonal outbreak pattern of Salmonella Strathcona cases has been identified in Europe since 2011, with small tomatoes from Sicily being the likely source. The investigation found that almost all cases were genetically related, suggesting a common source and food vehicle.
The winners of the Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2025 have been recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to global challenges through applied microbiology. The awards celebrate excellence across various domains, including drug discovery and sustainable agriculture.
Researchers create novel compounds that kill bacteria in a new way, reducing the risk of side effects and environmental harm. The compounds have been shown to be effective in preventing bovine mastitis without affecting milk quality.
A new study reveals rising rates of invasive SDSE infections across Australia, particularly among older Australians and those from remote regions. The research highlights disparities in health outcomes between regions and populations, emphasizing the need for improved surveillance and prevention strategies.
Researchers argue that AI can strengthen pandemic preparedness by detecting emerging diseases earlier. By combining data from humans, animals, and the environment, AI can reveal patterns and provide insights into potential pathogens.
Researchers from UCL and Imperial College London have discovered how life-saving antibiotics called polymyxins target the outer layer of Gram-negative bacteria. By triggering the production and shedding of this armor, polymyxins create gaps in the cell's defenses, allowing the antibiotic to enter and kill the bacteria.
Researchers at the University of Oregon have discovered a new treatment approach using a two-drug combination that is 10,000 times more effective than single-drug antibiotics in killing bacterial cells in lab tests. This promising method could help shorten treatment time and reduce toxicity in patients with chronic wound infections.
Yale researchers have developed a novel diagnostic method for detecting leptospiral virulence-modifying proteins in blood and urine, which could lead to early diagnosis and improved treatment options. The test has the potential to transform leptospirosis management globally by enabling timely treatments and mitigating disease severity.
The Gladstone Infectious Disease Institute is broadening its research scope to tackle pressing health challenges beyond viruses. Scientists are discovering new ways to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and explore the interconnectedness of viruses and bacteria in causing chronic diseases.
A cohort study reveals oral bacteria and fungi as significant risk factors for pancreatic cancer development. The findings suggest that oral microbiota may serve as biomarkers to identify individuals at high risk of pancreatic cancer, potentially contributing to personalized prevention strategies.
A new review article highlights the need for effective control and prevention strategies for sexually transmitted gut infections, which can persist longer and be harder to treat. The authors emphasize the importance of prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and community-level education and testing.
Researchers at Auburn University have discovered the strongest natural protein bond ever recorded, revealing how Staphylococcus aureus clings tightly to human skin. The study found that calcium plays a key role in fortifying this grip, making it stronger and more resistant to breaking.
Researchers funded by the National Institutes of Health found that a single injection of benzathine penicillin G successfully treated early syphilis just as well as the three-injection regimen used by many clinicians. Biological markers showed that 76% of participants in the single-dose group had a serologic response to treatment, comp...
Engineered peptides form nanonets that trap and kill bacteria, while leaving healthy cells untouched. The technology could inspire next-generation biomaterials for treating bacterial infections.
A multicenter study in China found that patients with liver cirrhosis were prone to community-acquired pneumonia and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, with Klebsiella pneumoniae and MDR organisms being major concerns. The study highlights the need for region-specific strategies to improve outcomes for this vulnerable population.
Scientists create a way to eliminate harmful bacteria from the gut to prevent infections by using beneficial bacteria as an alternative. The approach has shown promising results in laboratory tests and mouse models.
A review led by Oregon Health & Science University researchers suggests that the US could save $1 billion a year by dropping adult tetanus and diphtheria booster shots if childhood vaccination rates remain strong. The safety of this approach depends on maintaining high childhood vaccination coverage.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control warns of an increased risk of Vibrio infections throughout the summer season due to rising sea surface temperatures. Several northern countries bordering the Baltic Sea have reported increases in recent years, with serious infections possible through foodborne or skin contact.
Researchers propose using chemical sensors to diagnose bacterial infections by detecting volatile organic compounds in bodily fluids, providing a rapid and affordable diagnostic test. The technology has the potential to improve treatment plans and combat antibiotic resistance.
A new study finds that Salmonella Dublin causes increased calf mortality, lower milk yield, and higher medication costs in dairy farms. The disease leads to hidden financial losses due to gradual infection without visible symptoms.
Researchers have identified genetic bottlenecks that explain the emergence of pandemic cholera strains. These specific combinations of genes and allelic variants grant an advantage in human intestinal colonization, allowing a small subset of Vibrio cholerae to become deadly pathogens.
The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) has launched a critical care APP education and certification program, covering 11 topic areas including patient-centered care and pharmacology. The CCAPP Certification Exam is now available, with an August 5 deadline to apply for the 2025 exam.
Researchers discovered how urban rat migration spreads leptospirosis, a deadly disease, and developed a novel technique for testing rat kidneys. The study used advanced molecular techniques to analyze DNA from 328 rat kidney samples collected from 17 sites in Boston, finding that 59 rats were positive for Leptospira bacteria.
A new study found that many home washing machines are insufficient for decontaminating healthcare worker uniforms, allowing antibiotic-resistant bacteria to survive. The researchers propose revising laundering guidelines or using on-site industrial machines to improve patient safety.
Scientists have discovered a novel immune signaling pathway in bacteria that turns viral infection machinery against the virus, potentially informing future biotech tools and phage therapy. This discovery reveals an ancient defense strategy that could help fight superbugs.
Researchers at Amsterdam UMC have developed a new diagnostic test that measures CRP protein in cerebrospinal fluid to quickly diagnose bacterial meningitis. The test has been shown to be very reliable and can start treatment within half an hour of diagnosis.
A hospital-based outbreak detection system has been shown to prevent infections, save lives and cut costs. The Enhanced Detection System for Healthcare-Associated Transmission (EDS-HAT) uses genomic sequencing to analyze infectious disease samples from patients, identifying near-identical strains that flag potential outbreaks.
Researchers at the University of Oregon have discovered a molecule produced by yeast living on human skin that shows potent antimicrobial properties against Staphylococcus aureus. The fungus, Malassezia sympodialis, transforms host lipids into antibacterial hydroxy fatty acids that can kill the bacteria in as little as 15 minutes.
Researchers at UMass Amherst's New England Center of Excellence in Vector-borne Diseases have identified a new strain of Rickettsia bacteria that causes spotted fever infections in humans. The discovery in Maine suggests rabbit ticks could be a zoonotic vector for serious infections, contradicting the usual dog tick vector.
Researchers discovered that CsrA gathers in droplet-like structures inside cells to control bacterial gene activation. These compartments help bacteria adapt to environments and switch between harmless and virulent states.
The ERA4TB project aims to develop new antibiotics against TB, while TAINT-TB focuses on contrast agents for precise diagnosis. The TCOLF-TC312 project uses humanized mice to study TB and its interactions with the immune system.
A study found that patients who experienced vision impairment due to microbial keratitis had poorer treatment outcomes if they delayed seeking medical attention or had more extensive eye damage. In contrast, patients in the US who wore contact lenses had better outcomes, possibly due to earlier treatment by their physicians.
Adding an experimental cancer drug to standard TB treatment reduces lung damage and prevents post-TB lung disease in mice. Researchers found that the drug doubled pulmonary apoptosis and reduced lung scarring by 40% compared to standard treatments.
Researchers developed a chemical probe to study Mycobacterium tuberculosis outer envelope component mycolic acid, revealing its role in evading immune responses. The probe provides insight into the pathogen's survival mechanisms and may inform new treatment strategies.
A new study by Hokkaido University found that colder temperatures significantly increase the risk of gastroenteritis among Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh's Kutupalong and Nayapara camps. The study reveals a link between temperature changes and gastroenteritis risk, with both extreme cold and heat contributing to higher numbers of cases.
A new study from the University of Oxford reveals that a molecule called glycosyrin, produced by the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae, mimics galactose to suppress plant immune responses. This finding has potential medicinal applications and highlights the complex strategies used by bacteria to manipulate host plants.
The study found that mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) of CD8+ T cells is a significant predictor of bacterial infection (BI) and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) in cirrhotic patients. Low MMP levels were associated with increased risk of BI and ACLF.
Researchers detected widespread contamination of retail chicken meat in Bangladesh with antibiotic-resistant E. albertii, a lesser-known but deadly pathogen. The study highlights the need for improved hygiene measures and stricter regulations to prevent foodborne infections.
A new breath test has been developed to diagnose and monitor bacterial infections. The test is non-invasive and can detect various types of bacteria, making it a promising tool for early detection and treatment.
A pioneering study has identified interleukin-6 (IL-6) as a powerful diagnostic biomarker for the early detection of sepsis in high-risk patient groups. IL-6 outperformed traditional biomarkers in distinguishing bacterial from non-bacterial infections and stratifying sepsis severity.
A new class of antibiotic has been shown to be effective in treating MRSA infections, with a daily dose of epidermicin NI01 demonstrating equal efficacy to the current standard of care. The findings justify further pre-clinical development and could lead to new gel-type therapies for skin infections.
Recent cases of multi-drug resistant cholera in the UK and Germany are linked to exposure to contaminated holy water from Ethiopia. The study found a connection between pilgrims consuming or bathing in the holy well and the spread of the disease.
A University of Ottawa-led team examines the punishing costs of TB care, finding that patients face 'catastrophic' expenses despite free treatment being available in many countries. The review identifies areas for intervention to reduce patient costs and improve sustainable TB mitigation strategies.
A study in the journal Cell Host & Microbe found that a diet rich in soluble fiber can protect against pathogenic bacteria like Clostridioides difficile. Consuming soluble fiber produces compounds like acetate, which regulates immune response and reduces inflammation.
Tulane University scientists developed a handheld device to deliver rapid and accurate tuberculosis diagnoses in under an hour. The device, called the lab-in-tube assay (LIT), can detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA in saliva, blood, and sputum samples, offering a cost-effective tool for improving TB diagnoses in resource-limited areas.
A new artificial intelligence-based method detects genetic markers of antibiotic resistance in bacteria, potentially leading to faster and more effective treatments. The method, called Group Association Model, uses machine learning to identify key mutations linked to drug resistance, reducing false positives and misdiagnoses.
Researchers at La Trobe University have discovered how enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) bacteria use a molecular toxin called EspC to destroy gut cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of targeted drugs to combat EPEC infections and their devastating consequences, including severe dehydration and death.
A study by Umea University researchers identifies genes in Staphylococcus aureus that confer immunity against virus infection, a key mechanism to understand antibiotic resistance. Understanding this system could help develop new treatments for serious infections.
A new study found that Clostridium difficile infection spreads more than three times more than previously thought within intensive care units, with bacteria moving between patients and hospital surfaces. The researchers tracked bacterial movement using whole genome DNA sequencing and discovered cases of potential transmission that woul...
Researchers created a bacterial evolutionary map that tracks plasmid gene exchange and identifies barriers to treatment. The study reveals new insights into the co-evolution of plasmids and E. coli strains, paving the way for targeted therapies against antibiotic-resistant infections.
A new study developed an AI model that can predict whether bacteria will become antibiotic-resistant by analyzing their genetic data. The model shows that antibiotic resistance is more easily transmitted between genetically similar bacteria and mainly occurs in wastewater treatment plants and inside the human body.
A research team has identified a previously unknown defense mechanism in Pseudomonas syringae, enabling the bacterium to produce chemical compounds that attract amoebae, which are then killed by toxic substances produced by the bacteria. This 'chemical radar' system also helps the bacteria infect plants in the presence of predators.
Researchers have identified a new class of antibiotic that targets Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium causing gonorrhoea. The novel substance uses a unique mechanism to activate a self-destruction program in gonococci, killing the bacteria without harming other microorganisms or human cells.
A new class of agents has been developed to inhibit hospital germs, particularly targeting the toxin α-hemolysin produced by Staphylococcus aureus. The compound H052 showed high effectiveness in cell culture and animal models, increasing survival rates in infected mice.
A study reveals that most Acinetobacter baumannii infections in a Malaysian hospital belonged to the Global Clone 2 lineage, which is also dominant worldwide. The majority of bacterial samples were resistant to multiple antibiotics, including carbapenems.
A new study found that reported tuberculosis diagnoses among incarcerated people in Europe and the Americas plummeted by up to 100% during the pandemic, despite consistent incarceration rates. This reduction was distinct from general population trends, highlighting the need for improved healthcare systems within prisons.
Researchers have studied the mechanism of action of bioactive compounds from papaya, passion fruit, and medicinal plant extracts. Modified pectins extracted from these plants show potential as supplements or food ingredients to boost biological activity against colon cancer and gut microbiota.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center discovered how C. diff converts a poisonous compound into a usable nutrient, increasing its competitive advantage in the infected gut. The findings point to novel therapeutic strategies, including targeting the TudS enzyme to preserve healthy gut microbiota.