Bacteria are hard-wired for survival, E. coli study suggests
Researchers found E. coli can survive repeated DNA breaks by using emergency repair mechanisms and overlapping DNA replication, enabling it to thrive indefinitely.
Bacterial Infections
Articles tagged with Bacterial Infections
Using microscopic bugs to save the bees
Scientists at Brigham Young University have developed a natural treatment using phages to protect baby bees from American Foulbrood, a deadly disease that kills off larvae and leads to hive collapse. The researchers identified five phage candidates for honeybee treatment, providing a potential alternative to antibiotics.
How Staph infections elude the immune system
A study found that Staphylococcus aureus uses protein A as a superantigen to activate many B cells, leading to immune tunnel vision and reduced protection against infection. This knowledge can inform future vaccine approaches to combat MRSA.
Gene identified for immune system reset after infection
Researchers at Duke University have discovered a key gene that regulates the immune system's transition from high alert to recovery after an infection. The finding, published in PLOS Genetics, highlights the importance of cellular homeostasis in repairing tissue damage and eliminating bacterial toxins.
Proper dental care linked to reduced risk of respiratory infections in ICU patients
Patients who received enhanced dental care were 56% less likely to develop a respiratory tract infection during their ICU stay. The study suggests that having a dentist provide weekly care as part of the ICU team may improve outcomes for vulnerable patients in this setting.
A real-time tracking system developed to monitor dangerous bacteria inside the body
Researchers have developed a system to detect and monitor dangerous Gram-negative bacteria in real-time using PET scans. The approach uses a chemical tracer that selectively tags specific types of bacteria, providing rapid feedback on how they respond to antibiotics.
Antibiotics may help Salmonella spread in infected animals, Stanford scientists learn
Researchers found that antibiotics can exacerbate Salmonella infection in mice, turning non-superspreaders into superspreaders. The study highlights concerns about the routine use of sub-therapeutic doses of antibiotics in livestock.
Group B streptococcus incidence rises significantly among newborns
The incidence of early-onset and late-onset group B streptococcal disease increased in the Netherlands after guidelines were introduced, mainly due to a rise in virulent clonal complex 17 strains. Universal screening and antibiotic prophylaxis for pregnant women may be necessary to prevent all infections.
Scientists opens black box on bacterial growth in cystic fibrosis lung infection
Researchers discovered how immune cells consume oxygen and restrict bacterial growth in cystic fibrosis patients. This study provides new insights into bacterial behavior and growth in chronic infections.
Staph 'gangs' share nutrients during infection: Vanderbilt study
Antibiotic-resistant staph bacteria can exchange nutrients with each other and even with normal microbes to increase virulence during an infection. This challenges existing dogma on infectious diseases and may inform new treatment strategies.
NYU Langone Medical Center to lead multi-institutional MRSA research funded by the NIH
Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center are working on a five-year contract to discover fundamental immunology, microbial genetics, and protein structure of Staphylococcus aureus. The goal is to identify Sa antigens that are crucial for effective immune defenses.
Researchers look to exploit females' natural resistance to infection
A team of scientists found that female mice are more resistant to respiratory infections due to the presence of an enzyme called nitric oxide synthase 3, which is triggered by estrogen. The researchers hope to develop drugs targeting this enzyme to improve resistance to common lung infections.
Researchers identify potential drug that could help treat cystic fibrosis
Scientists identify tannic acid as a potential treatment for bacterial lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients, counteracting the harmful effects of the Staphylococcus aureus enzyme SMaseC. The discovery suggests that tannic acid may improve therapeutic outcomes for CF patients.
Versatile antibiotic found with self-immunity gene on plasmid in staph strain
Researchers found a potent antibiotic and a gene that confers immunity to it in Staphylococcus epidermidis Strain 115. The discovery could lead to large-scale production of the antibiotic, potentially solving the growing antibiotic crisis.
Bioinspired coating for medical devices repels blood and bacteria
Developed using FDA-approved materials, the coating prevents flowing blood from clotting for at least eight hours. It also suppresses biofilm formation and reduces bacterial adhesion, making it a potential solution to common medical device challenges.
One gene links susceptibility to rare infections with predisposition to autoimmune disease
Researchers discovered a paradoxical immune protein that both helps and hinders the immune system response, leading to increased susceptibility to rare bacterial infections and predisposition to autoimmune diseases. The protein ISG15 plays a crucial role in resolving inflammation and preventing autoinflammatory disorders.
Oral capsule as effective as invasive procedures for delivery of fecal transplant
A non-invasive oral capsule approach has been shown to be as effective as colonoscopy or nasogastric tube delivery in eliminating recurrent diarrhea caused by C. difficile infection. The study found a 90% success rate for the oral capsule method, with most participants experiencing complete symptom resolution after a single treatment.
Treating C. diff infection with oral, frozen encapsulated fecal material
A study found that oral administration of frozen encapsulated fecal material from unrelated donors resulted in a high resolution rate of 90% for recurrent C. diff infection patients. The treatment eliminated diarrhea in 70% of patients and improved self-reported health ratings.
Pneumococcal vaccine reduces antibiotic-resistant infections in children by 62 percent
The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) has significantly reduced serious infections, including those caused by antibiotic-resistant superbugs, among children under five years old. The vaccine's effectiveness led to the early achievement of the Healthy People 2020 goal of reducing antimicrobial-resistant invasive pneumococcal disease.
Study examines effect of antibiotic susceptibility for patients with bloodstream infection
A study analyzing over 8,000 episodes of Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections found no significant difference in mortality risk between patients with less and more susceptible strains to the antibiotic vancomycin. The study suggests that current standards for vancomycin MIC may not need to be lowered.
New weapons against multidrug resistance in tuberculosis
EPFL scientists have developed two small molecules that can overcome the multidrug resistance of Mtb, a bacterium that causes tuberculosis. The compounds inhibit the secretion of virulence protein EsxA and exert multiple effects against Mtb's molecular apparatus.
Liquid DNA behind virus attacks
Researchers at Lund University have discovered that viruses can convert their solid DNA to a liquid form, making it easier to infect cells. This temperature-dependent phase transition could lead to the development of new medicines targeting virus DNA, potentially reducing infection capability and spreading.
High alcohol intake linked to heightened HPV infection risk in men
Research found a significant association between high alcohol intake and heightened HPV infection risk in men, even after adjusting for other risk factors. The study suggests that moderate alcohol consumption may be crucial to reducing this risk, alongside safe sex practices and smoking cessation.
Breakthrough study discovers 6 changing faces of 'global killer' bacteria
Researchers discover six unique states of pneumococcus bacteria, which can help develop tailored vaccines. The study found that each state has distinct DNA methylation patterns and alters gene expression, virulence, and disease severity.
Viral infection might just be a phase... transition
Carnegie Mellon researchers show viral DNA transforms from solid to fluid-like state at infection temperature, facilitating infection. This phase transition could be a promising new target for antiviral therapies, which may avoid drug resistance.
Fecal microbiota transplantation recommended for treatment of C. difficile
Fecal microbiota transplantation has been proven to be a safe and highly effective treatment for recurrent C. difficile infections, eradicating bacteria in around 90% of cases with good safety profiles. The technique is now officially recognized as an effective treatment for this difficult-to-treat infection.
Interdisciplinary research team finds method for more precise diagnosis of pneumonia
A research team from George Washington University has developed a new method for diagnosing pneumonia that uses DNA sequencing to identify bacterial pathogens. This approach could lead to more targeted and effective treatment, reducing healthcare costs and improving patient outcomes.
Influenza A potentiates pneumococcal co-infection: New details emerge
Research shows that influenza A potentiates pneumococcal co-infection by enhancing the bacterium's ability to colonize the nasopharynx and infect the middle ear. This interaction leads to increased inflammatory responses, allowing pneumococci to flourish in the host environment.
Old drug may be key to new antibiotics
A new class of antibiotics could be developed using the anticonvulsant drug lamotrigine, which inhibits bacterial ribosome assembly. Researchers at McMaster University discovered that lamotrigine stops ribosomes from being created in bacteria, a breakthrough in tackling antibiotic resistance.
New insights on an ancient plague could improve treatments for infections
Researchers at Duke Medicine and Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School Singapore detail how Yersinia pestis bacteria hitchhike on immune cells in lymph nodes to spread the bubonic plague. New therapies that block host immune function show promise in preventing infection and improving survival.
Sharks' skin has teeth in the fight against hospital superbugs
Researchers have developed a surface micropattern called Sharklet that mimics shark skin's natural texture, reducing bacterial contamination by up to 94% compared to smooth surfaces. This technology could potentially curb the spread of MRSA and MSSA in hospital settings.
Gut bacteria tire out T cells
Patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) experience recurrent bacterial infections due to exhausted T cells expressing inhibitory protein PD-1. Rejuvenating these cells through blocking PD-1 may offer protection against bacterial infections, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy.
Commensal bacteria help orchestrate immune response in lung
Research in mice demonstrates that commensal bacteria enhance the immune system's ability to kill Klebsiella pneumoniae by boosting alveolar macrophage production of reactive oxygen molecules. The study suggests that signals from these beneficial bacteria play an active role in regulating immune function, even in the absence of infection.
How bacteria battle fluoride
Recent studies have uncovered the mechanisms that allow bacteria to battle fluoride toxicity. Researchers found that bacteria use two types of proteins, fluoride/hydrogen antiporters and passive channels like Fluc, to rid themselves of unwanted fluoride. This knowledge could lead to new treatments for harmful bacterial diseases.
Hog workers carry drug-resistant bacteria even after they leave the farm
A new study reveals that nearly half of hog workers in North Carolina carry livestock-associated Staphylococcus aureus, with 46% persistently carrying the bacteria up to four days after exposure. The drug-resistant strains have implications for public health, potentially spreading to family members and communities.
Each day in the hospital raises risk of multidrug-resistant infection
A hospital stay significantly increases the risk of acquiring a multidrug-resistant infection, with each additional day boosting the likelihood by 1%, according to new research. The study found that the percentage of infections classified as multidrug-resistant rose sharply after four or five days of hospitalization, peaking at over 35%.
Study: Viral infection in nose can trigger middle ear infection
Researchers found that a flu virus can inflame nasal tissue and increase bacterial growth, leading to middle ear infections. The study suggests that the flu virus modifies the immune system's response to certain bacteria, enabling them to infect the middle ear.
Biochemists find new treatment options for staph infections, inflammatory diseases
Researchers at Kansas State University have discovered a family of proteins in Staphylococcus aureus that prevent neutrophils from functioning, leading to potential new treatments for staph infections and inflammatory diseases such as emphysema. The study sheds light on how the bacteria evade the immune system.
Researchers uncover hidden infection route of major bacterial pathogen
Scientists have found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonizes the nasopharynx before migrating to the lungs, leading to chronic infections. This new understanding provides an opportunity for developing treatments at the initial site of infection.
Scientists develop 'electronic nose' for rapid detection of C. diff infection
Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed an 'electronic nose' that can rapidly detect C. difficile infections by identifying unique chemical fingerprints. This technology holds promise for faster diagnoses and tailored treatment options.
Breakthrough antibacterial approach could resolve serious skin infections
Researchers have identified a unique class of materials, known as ionic liquids, that can neutralize biofilm-forming pathogens and deliver drugs through the skin. These materials are effective at disrupting biofilms and have minimal cytotoxicity effects on human cell lines.
Study identifies protein that helps prevent active tuberculosis in infected patients
A UCLA-led study discovered a protein called interleukin-32 that helps protect people with latent tuberculosis from developing the active form of the disease. The researchers found that vitamin D levels play a crucial role in this protection, and supplementing with vitamin D may help prevent TB.
Common antibiotic linked with heart deaths
A study found that clarithromycin, a widely used antibiotic, is associated with an increased risk of heart deaths in people over 40-74 years old. The absolute risk difference was 37 cardiac deaths per 1 million courses with clarithromycin.
The difficult question of Clostridium difficile
Scientists have identified key regions of the Cwp84 enzyme that could be targeted by drugs to prevent Clostridium difficile colonization and toxin production. The research may lead to the development of a new type of anti-colonization inhibitor to treat C. difficile infection.
Free fatty acids may be as effective as antibiotics in treating catheter infections
Researchers found that a free fatty acid compound is equally effective as antibiotics in treating certain catheter-related bloodstream infections. The study suggests that these compounds could provide an alternative treatment option for preventing and treating intravenous catheter infections.
New frontiers of fecal microbiota transplantation
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) shows promise in treating a broad range of gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease. A new orally delivered community of microbes has been developed to address the challenges of FMT.
Newborns' genetic code sends infection distress signal
Researchers have identified a 52-character biological signal specific to bacterial infection in newborns' DNA, enabling early detection and diagnosis. This breakthrough could lead to the development of a single-drop blood test, limiting antibiotic overuse and tackling drug resistance.
MRSA colonization common in groin and rectal areas
A recent study published in Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology found that community-associated MRSA can colonize the groin and rectal areas, with men being more frequently colonized than women. This discovery has important implications for MRSA surveillance programs nationwide.
Bacteria growing less susceptible to common antiseptic
A recent study found that bacteria growing in hospitals are increasingly resistant to chlorhexidine gluconate, a common antiseptic used to prevent infections. The study suggests that daily antiseptic baths may be contributing to this trend, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring.
Like cling wrap, new biomaterial can coat tricky burn wounds and block out infection
Researchers developed novel, ultrathin coatings called nanosheets that can cling to body's most difficult-to-protect contours and keep bacteria at bay. The nanosheets protected burns from infection for three continuous days and up to six days with an additional coating.
Team determines structure of a molecular machine that targets viral DNA for destruction
Scientists at Montana State University have developed a detailed blueprint of a bacterial surveillance complex that detects and destroys viruses. The discovery could lead to new innovations in medicine, biotechnology, and agriculture, as CRISPR-associated machines are being repurposed for precision DNA editing.
Discovery yields master regulator of toxin production in staph infections
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have identified a key enzyme that regulates toxin production in Staphylococcus aureus, a common cause of serious infections. The discovery provides a promising target for developing new antibiotics to combat multi-drug resistant staph and related bacteria.
Smart bacteria help each other survive
Researchers at Lund University discovered how Haemophilus influenzae bacteria can share iron with each other, increasing their chances of survival and potentially creating new vaccine targets. This interaction has significant implications for the development of vaccines and treatments for respiratory infections.
Identifying kids, teens with kidney damage risk after first urinary tract infection
A meta-analysis of nine cohort studies found that children with fever over 102 degrees, infection with organisms other than E.coli, or abnormal kidney ultrasonography findings are at high risk for renal scarring. The study developed a clinical prediction model to identify nearly 45% of children who scar.
C. difficile vaccine proves safe, 100 percent effective in animal models
A new C. difficile vaccine has been shown to be 100 percent effective in protecting animal models from the deadly intestinal disease caused by Clostridium difficile. The vaccine protects against bacterial toxins and could prevent deadly complications such as severe diarrhea and bowel perforation.
Molecule enhances copper's lethal punch against microbes
A team of scientists at Duke University has discovered a molecule that exploits the body's natural response to fungi and bacteria, using copper to kill microbial pathogens. The findings show promise for developing broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents with minimal harm to healthy cells.
Chronic infection, smoke inhalation, or yet to be discovered causes could explain why ancient men and women had atherosclerosis
Research suggests that ancient cultures may have been plagued by atherosclerosis due to chronic infection, inflammation, or exposure to smoke. The study of mummies from various cultures reveals a high incidence of the disease, which contradicts the expectation that modern lifestyles are the primary cause.
New route to identify drugs that can fight bacterial infections
Researchers found 101 non-antibiotic drugs with potential to prevent growth of certain bacterial pathogens, including those causing Legionnaires' disease and brucellosis. These drugs interfere with host cell functions to stall intracellular bacterial infections.
Bacteria-resistant materials -- £2 million to get the 'inside' story
Researchers have discovered new materials capable of repelling bacteria, which could lead to a significant reduction in hospital infections acquired through implanted medical devices. The polymers have been licensed to a UK SME for clinical trials, aiming to inform rational design of improved bacteria-resistant polymers.
Fist-bumping beats germ-spreading handshake, study reports
A study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that fist-bumping transmits significantly fewer bacteria than handshaking or high-fiving. The research suggests that adopting the fist bump as a greeting could substantially reduce the transmission of infectious diseases between individuals.