Research on infections caused by bacteria and how to fight them. Covers antibiotic resistance, biofilms, congenital syphilis, Lyme disease, and precise treatments.
Researchers at Tufts University found that extra vitamin E protected older mice from pneumonia by regulating their immune system and reducing inflammation. The study shows promise for future research into the effects of vitamin E on human infections.
A study published in Science highlights the importance of nutritional immunity in fighting infectious diseases. The research reveals that humans have developed a defense mechanism to starve bacteria by hiding circulating iron, but pathogens have adapted to steal this resource.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) uses Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron to worsen its own infection by stealing scarce resources from other gut bacteria. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding how microbiota composition impacts infection outcomes.
Researchers have identified bacterial genes that help UTIs spread, providing a potential new target for treating UTIs. The study reveals the specific genes expressed by E. coli bacteria in human urinary tract infections, which can be attacked to promote survival of the bacteria.
A team of researchers, led by Wayne State University's Steven M. Firestine, has been awarded a $3.2 million NIH grant to assess the effectiveness of a new treatment for C. difficile infection. The study aims to prevent the spore germination of the bacterium, which is responsible for the majority of hospital-acquired cases.
A study found that testing for antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli before prostate biopsy can reduce post-biopsy infections by nearly 40%. Patients with pre-existing, drug-resistant E. coli on rectal swab cultures had lower infection rates and shorter hospitalizations.
Researchers at LA BioMed have developed a novel vaccine, NDV-3, that can protect against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) skin infections. The vaccine enhances molecular and cellular immune defenses of the skin in response to MRSA and other S. aureus bacteria.
Scientists discovered that SPLUNC1 binds to pulmonary lipids to fight lung infection, keeping airways flexible and hydrated. This finding brings the protein closer to becoming a viable therapy for asthma and COPD patients.
Researchers at Brigham Young University have identified a potentially life-saving antibiotic produced by good bacteria found in turkeys. The MP1 antibiotic has shown promise in targeting staph infections, strep throat, and severe gastrointestinal diseases.
Researchers developed LipoLLA, a therapeutic nanoparticle containing linolenic acid that effectively kills Helicobacter pylori bacteria in mice. The treatment also reduced inflammation and was non-toxic, making it a promising alternative to standard antibiotics.
Researchers found that blocking angiogenesis can reduce bacterial numbers, limit their spread and increase survival rates in infected lab animals. The study suggests a potential new therapeutic approach targeting the body's response to tuberculosis rather than directly attacking the bacteria.
Researchers have created a new method to quickly identify bacteria causing infections and determine antibiotic resistance, which could lead to timely treatment and reduced antibiotic use. The innovative approach enables rapid identification of bacterial species and resistance patterns in under four hours.
New research reveals hand dryers can spread bacteria in public toilets, increasing the risk of infection. Studies found airborne germ counts were 27 times higher around jet air dryers compared to paper towels.
Research found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses a sense of touch to detect hosts, allowing it to initiate infection without relying on chemical signals. The bacteria's ability to infect is linked to the PilY1 protein, which can be targeted for treatment.
Researchers found that bacterial infections due to Staphylococcus aureus aggravate neurodermatitis by triggering the formation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells, which suppress both harmful and beneficial immune responses in the skin. This can lead to chronic inflammation, itching, and social stigmatization in patients.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health found that infection with a common virus helped mice repair damaged intestinal tissue and restore their immune defenses. The study suggests that the virome, or natural presence of viruses in the gut, plays a crucial role in maintaining health and fighting infections.
A recent report reveals that Vibrio coralliilyticus is not only more widespread and deadly than previously believed but also infects various fish, shellfish, and oysters, including rainbow trout and larval brine shrimp. Researchers have developed a rapid diagnostic assay for this bacteria to assess problems in oyster and coral health.
A significant increase in life-threatening heart infections has been identified, alongside a notable decrease in antibiotic prescriptions for dental patients. The study, published in The Lancet, reveals 35 extra cases per month in the UK and an 89% fall in prescribed antibiotics.
Intra-abdominal infections caused by Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus result in high mortality rates due to synergistic inflammatory responses. Researchers hope to identify targeted treatments to decrease severity and improve survival through their study.
Research reveals that Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) strains infecting adults and children globally have similar toxins and virulence factors, indicating potential for a single, effective vaccine.
Smoking increases susceptibility to TB infection, with white blood cells in smokers' lungs showing a weakened response to the disease. The discovery provides new insights into treating and preventing TB, which kills 1.5 million people annually.
Researchers have identified new properties in microbes causing conjunctivitis, enabling the bacterium to stick to and damage the eye surface. The discovery may lead to the development of a new vaccine to prevent this infection.
Researchers at Boston University will identify biomarkers for TB infection and disease progression, aiming to reduce mortality rates. The study aims to develop new tools for preventing and treating TB, a deadly disease affecting millions globally.
A new study reveals that naturally occurring carbon monoxide is essential for the macrophages' surveillance plan, detecting the presence of bacteria and instigating an attack. CO also boosts the immune response to enhance clearance of bacteria and resolution of SIRS.
A new UCSB study reveals that a fungal pathogen in amphibians disrupts the skin microbiome, leading to dramatic changes in bacterial communities. The research has significant implications for understanding infectious disease dynamics and developing responses to diseases causing amphibian extinction.
Researchers have identified a new treatment using specially engineered liposomes to neutralize bacterial toxins, preventing cell death and disease progression. This treatment offers an alternative to current medications for infections resistant to antibiotics.
Researchers used the genetic data to learn about Shigella flexneri's resistance to drugs and its evolution over time. The study provides valuable insights into how the pathogen has changed since World War I and may help develop an effective vaccine for dysentery.
Researchers have found that bats carry the bacterial species Bartonella mayotimonensis, which causes deadly human infections in the USA. Bats are ideal reservoirs for pathogenic viruses and play a vital role in natural ecosystems.
Researchers found E. coli can survive repeated DNA breaks by using emergency repair mechanisms and overlapping DNA replication, enabling it to thrive indefinitely.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.