Research on infections caused by bacteria and how to fight them. Covers antibiotic resistance, biofilms, congenital syphilis, Lyme disease, and precise treatments.
Amprologix Limited, a University of Plymouth spinout, has secured a £1.2 million contract to accelerate development of its lead antibiotic candidate epidermicin NI01 to tackle antimicrobial resistance. The company aims to make the nasal cream ready for human clinical trials by early 2021.
Researchers have identified a protein, nemuri, that promotes sleep after sleep deprivation or infection in fruit flies. The protein also increases the ability of flies to survive bacterial infections. This dual action suggests a link between sleep and immune function.
Researchers identified interleukin 10 receptor (IL-10R) as key player in regulating immune response to parasitic whipworms. The discovery helps understand the signalling mechanism maintaining a balance between host, parasite, and gut bacteria.
Researchers found a significant increase in infection-related stroke hospitalizations from 1993 to 2015, with the greatest increases seen in women and young people. The study suggests that addressing the opioid epidemic is crucial in reducing this public health problem.
Researchers found that vaccination with Streptococcus mitis boosted production of IgG and IgA antibodies, as well as Th17 cells, offering protection against certain serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae. The study suggests that this natural human colonizer could be used to develop a safe vaccine against the disease.
A study published in the Emergency Medicine Journal found that paramedics' hand hygiene compliance is remarkably low, with only 15% of instances adhering to recommended standards. The over-reliance on gloves indicates a tendency towards self-protection rather than patient protection.
Researchers discovered a significant rise in infective endocarditis among Ontarians who inject drugs, with hydromorphone prescriptions linked to the increased risk. The study found that reusing injection equipment, common among opioid users, allows for bacterial contamination and increases the chances of heart infection.
A study of people who inject drugs found a significant increase in the risk of infective endocarditis, a serious infection of the heart lining, possibly linked to increasing use of hydromorphone. The risk rose from 13.4 to 35.1 admissions per three months between 2011 and 2015.
Researchers identified Porphyromonas gingivalis as a bacterial pathogen driving Alzheimer's disease pathology in the brains of patients. The study found that Pg infection led to increased production of amyloid beta and neuroinflammation.
Scientists used a genetic tool to identify 72 key genes in group A strep that contribute to necrotizing myositis, a devastating human infection with high mortality rates. The study provides a genetic roadmap for developing new vaccines and treatments.
Basophils, a rare type of white blood cell, have been found to play a crucial role in preventing sepsis. By releasing protein tumor necrosis factor (TNF), basophils trigger an immune response that helps protect against infection and prevents the progression to sepsis.
Researchers found that super-donors have stool rich in bacteria that enhance metabolism and can provide the necessary chemicals to restore gut balance. Fecal transplants from these 'super-donors' achieve clinical remission rates double those of other donors, offering new hope for treating a range of conditions.
Researchers developed a rapid whole genome sequencing method that can identify specific antibiotic-resistant bacteria strains in under a day, reducing treatment time by at least 20 hours. The technology has the potential to speed personalized treatment of drug-resistant infections, which claim thousands of lives annually.
A new antibiotic called Ramizol shows promise in treating drug-resistant bacteria in the intestines, particularly for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). The research indicates that Ramizol is well-tolerated and effective against lethal doses of the bacteria.
A new class of centyrins shows promise in blocking the effects of severe S. aureus bacterial infections in mice and human cell experiments. Nearly all centyrins that bind to leukotoxins prevent toxins from attaching to and destroying cells, potentially addressing antibiotic resistance.
A team of researchers analyzed the immune system of P. aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis patients, finding diverse bacterial populations with varying responses to viruses. The study's findings have implications for phage therapy and understanding infectious disease.
A new study identified a unique strain of CA-MRSA driving antimicrobial resistance and spread, particularly in vulnerable populations. Genomic surveillance played a crucial role in tracking the outbreak and informing infection control strategies.
Researchers have developed a highly specific anti-Wolbachia drug candidate that could provide a safe oral treatment for worm infections in just 7 days. The new therapy has superior efficacy and favorable drug properties compared to existing options, which typically take 4-6 weeks to treat similar conditions.
A clinical trial tested the effectiveness of topical antibiotic mupirocin in eliminating Staphylococcus aureus colonization in hospitalized infants. The study found that mupirocin is safe and highly effective in reducing SA infection, with over 90% of treated infants testing negative for SA after treatment.
Researchers discovered the pathway that causes dermal fibroblasts to lose their ability to convert into fat cells as people age. This process affects the skin's ability to fight infections, particularly bacterial ones like MRSA. The study may lead to new treatments for obesity, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases.
A new study found that antibiotics are being overused in up to 50% of patients undergoing common urological procedures, with extended use following the procedure being the main issue. This excessive use can promote antibiotic resistance and expose patients to potential harm.
A SLU researcher suggests focusing on high-risk tuberculosis patients to improve treatment completion rates and accelerate the US goal of eliminating the disease. By identifying latent patients at highest risk of active infection, doctors can better communicate the importance of completing treatment regimens.
Researchers developed an AI model to predict the risk of developing a serious infection from Staphylococcus epidermidis genomic features. The model uses large-scale population genomics and machine learning to identify high-risk genotypes, which could lead to proactive identification of individuals at risk before surgical procedures.
Researchers found that certain E. coli strains trigger protective immune responses while others evade them, leading to recurrent infections. The study suggests developing broad-spectrum vaccines should consider the diverse pathogens encountered in the community.
Researchers discovered that septins can detect where bacteria will split for division and prevent it from doing so by forming cage-like structures around the bacteria. This finding provides new clues to stop the spread of deadly infections, including Shigella, a 'superbug' deemed a priority by the World Health Organization.
A study found that face mask use significantly reduces the likelihood of finding drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in hog farm workers' nasal swabs. Household members of consistent face mask users also showed a significant reduction in bacterial colonization.
A study at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that mice infected with H. pylori bacteria and lacking claudin 18 developed precancerous cells and polyps. The loss of claudin 18 alone was enough to prompt precancerous cell development, indicating a new strategy to inhibit gastric cancer progression.
A DNA study found that stethoscopes are loaded with diverse bacteria, including those that cause healthcare-associated infections. Standardized cleaning methods were more effective in removing bacteria than practitioners' usual methods.
Scientists at Imperial College London discovered that persister cells manipulate immune cells, potentially opening new avenues to clearing these cells from the body. The study found that persisters weaken the power of macrophages, a key part of our arsenal against infection.
Researchers analyzed the interactions between five core species of bacteria found in the fly gut, revealing a nuanced tradeoff between lifespan and fecundity. The study suggests that the presence or absence of individual species influences the host's fitness, and that the microbiome's influence cannot be solely attributed to its parts.
Researchers discovered that a bacterial protein, DnaK, interferes with cell response to and repair of DNA damage, increasing cancer risk. The study suggests that bacterial infections may contribute to more cancers than previously thought.
Researchers discovered that babies with a diverse range of nasal bacteria tend to recover faster from their first respiratory virus. Conversely, those dominated by certain bacterial families are more likely to experience prolonged symptoms.
Researchers developed nanoparticles that detect proteases produced by bacteria and immune cells, allowing for faster diagnosis of pneumonia. The sensors can indicate whether antibiotics are effective in treating the infection.
Researchers have identified a set of genes that enable S. epidermidis to cause disease in certain circumstances, making it a major concern for those undergoing surgery. The study aims to identify patients at high risk of infection before surgery, reducing the risk of post-operative infections.
Researchers developed a rapid diagnostic tool using a small, inexpensive biosensor to provide instant and accurate results. The device can detect bacteria and screen their interaction with antibiotics, giving healthcare practitioners more information for accurate treatment decisions.
Researchers identified a more pathogenic strain of S. aureus associated with increased biofilm formation and transmission risk, linked to postoperative infections. Decolonizing patients and maintaining hand hygiene compliance are crucial in controlling the spread of this strain.
Researchers discovered an enzymatic reaction cascade generating the essential 6-membered ring in mupirocin production. The finding builds on earlier research and could lead to the development of new antibiotics with improved properties.
Researchers have discovered a previously unknown protein called TarP that helps multi-resistant bacteria evade the human immune system. This breakthrough could lead to new therapies against MRSA and other resistant pathogens.
Researchers discovered that Clostridium difficile toxins induce apoptosis in intestinal epithelial cells, providing a defense mechanism against the pathogen. The findings suggest that this cell death response protects the host from C. difficile infection, raising potential for therapeutic strategies to target gastrointestinal pathogens.
A new toxin discovered in Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been found to degrade DNA and stop the growth of rival bacteria, providing insight into bacterial warfare mechanisms.
Scientists discover functional genes for producing terpenes and carotenoids in mites, which could lead to new ways of controlling chigger bites and potentially treating scrub typhus. Ancient horizontal gene transfer from soil bacteria and fungi is found to be responsible for these genetic surprises.
Researchers found that patients infected with multi-drug resistant and extensively drug resistant bacterial infections, especially Gram-negative infections, had significantly higher mortality rates. The study highlights the urgent need for increased surveillance, research, and antimicrobial stewardship efforts worldwide.
Healthcare-associated infections persist in the EU/EEA, with 8.9 million cases annually, due to overuse of antimicrobials and varying infection prevention practices. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) calls for continued action to address antimicrobial resistance in healthcare settings.
A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Copenhagen has shown that faeces transplantation can significantly reduce the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in pigs born prematurely. The treatment involves transferring faeces from healthy donor pigs to the rectal opening, resulting in a 75% decrease in NEC cases...
Researchers found that bacterial toxins from Staphylococcus aureus reduce the number of cells suppressing the immune response, leading to excessive immune responses. Weakened enterotoxins could potentially be used to induce stronger immune responses in cancer treatment.
A study by Hannah Frank and colleagues reveals humans play a significant role in changing infection patterns, including spillover from animals to humans.
A team of engineers discovered a microgel powder that reduces bacteria and virus ability to infect by at least 99 percent. The powder, made from hydrogen peroxide, is reusable and can be used in various applications such as remote clinics or war zones.
Experimental inhibition of prostaglandin E2 enhanced the ability of mice to combat infectious colitis, resulting in increased migration of defense cells and production of antimicrobial peptides. Inhibiting PGE2 also favored the expression of defensins, considered natural antibiotics, in the colon.
Julie Pfeiffer's groundbreaking research has redefined how we think about life-threatening viral infections, discovering new ways bacteria affect virus infection. Her work shows antibiotics can have antiviral effects, driving research into new treatments for viruses.
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.
Researchers found that pneumolysin can interact with a special receptor in immune cells, triggering an anti-inflammatory response. This allows the bacteria to hide from further attack and grow, eventually giving rise to pneumonia. The study's findings may lead to new strategies for tackling pneumococcal infections.
Researchers discovered that mitochondria deploy ROS to destroy invading MRSA bacteria by packaging and delivering these molecules to the phagosome, bypassing traditional immune mechanisms. This backup system helps immune cells fight off pathogens with increased effectiveness.
A team of researchers has fully unveiled the sophisticated mechanism of bacterial toxins, including the Tc toxin complex used by the plague bacterium and other germs. The study reveals a molecular gatekeeper that controls the poison's exit, offering new insights for developing innovative therapies to combat bacterial infections.
A new antibiotic, zoliflodacin, has shown promising results in treating uncomplicated gonorrhea infections with a single oral dose. The study found a cure rate of 96% for participants treated with zoliflodacin, compared to 100% for those treated with ceftriaxone.
Researchers have discovered a Chlamydia protein that manipulates human cells by removing ubiquitin and acetylation, essential for the bacterium's survival. This finding could pave the way for treating Chlamydia with fewer antibiotics.
The study estimates that antibiotic-resistant bacteria cause a substantial burden of disease in the EU/EEA, with 75% attributed to healthcare-associated infections. The annual number of deaths due to these infections is comparable to that of influenza, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS combined.
Researchers attach molecular attachment r8 to conventional antibiotics, helping them penetrate bacterial outer defenses and linger, increasing effectiveness against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The approach demonstrates potential for treating other drugs and infections with existing modifications.
A study reveals lymph nodes as reservoirs of persistent tuberculosis infection, where the bacteria can persist for extended periods. This finding has significant implications for tuberculosis treatment and patient outcomes.
A study published in PNAS found that the Mincle receptor initiates an antibacterial response to Group A Streptococcus upon recognition of MGDG, an anchor of lipoteichoic acid. The receptor plays a critical role in the immune response to GAS and may provide a therapeutic option by increasing antibacterial immunity.
Patients with drug-resistant urinary tract infections are more likely to experience worse clinical outcomes and relapses within a week. The study highlights the importance of close follow-up and proper antibiotic treatment to curb antibiotic resistance.