Articles tagged with Bacterial Infections
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A new study by Duke neuroscientists identifies the source of learning difficulties as an overactive immune response, triggered by early-life infections. The researchers found that specialized immune system cells in the brain called microglia release a signaling molecule called Interleukin-1, which can impair learning and memory.
Researchers found that certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria have genetic variants that enable them to form biofilms on cardiac devices. This discovery offers clues for preventing infections in patients with implanted devices, which currently cost thousands of dollars and millions of dollars in healthcare costs each year.
Scientists have identified a specific genetic variation in Staph bacteria that increases its ability to form bonds with fibronectin, leading to infections in implanted cardiac devices. This discovery has implications for preventing biofilm-related infections and could lead to new protocols for assessing risk.
Researchers found that specific genetic variants in Staph surface proteins create stronger bonds with human blood proteins, leading to infection. The study aims to develop techniques to prevent these infections by understanding the initial step of biofilm formation.
A recent study has demonstrated the effectiveness of antimicrobial copper surfaces in reducing hospital-acquired infections. By replacing traditional objects with antimicrobial copper versions, the study found a significant decrease in bacterial growth and infection rates.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the dynamic intestinal ecosystem, suggesting new approaches to prevent inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and viral infections. They found that certain bacteria can increase polio virus infectivity by activating it.
The Trudeau Institute has made a breakthrough in treating Listeria infections by identifying a key role for blood-clotting proteins in immune defense. The study suggests that FXI-targeted therapeutics may be useful for treating severe infections caused by Listeria and other sepsis-causing bacteria.
The Peggy Lillis Memorial Foundation honors Dr. Sherwood Gorbach for his pioneering research and efforts to combat Clostridium difficile infection, a bacterial infection causing severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon. The award recognizes his contributions to increasing prevention and minimizing death and disability from C. diff.
A global team of scientists has identified a natural mutation in Clostridium difficile that causes the bacterium to produce hypervirulent strains resistant to antibiotics, leading to severe bowel infections.
Researchers have identified a toxin called SElX released by MRSA that triggers an extreme immune response. By targeting this toxin, it may be possible to prevent severe infections and high fever associated with MRSA.
Scientists analyzed polymorphisms in the MIF gene to identify its role against bacterial infections. The study found specific variants that protect against meningitis and increase mortality.
Researchers discovered that vitamin D is essential for triggering an effective immune response against tuberculosis, a potentially fatal lung disease. They found that T-cells release a protein called interferon-γ that requires sufficient levels of vitamin D to activate immune cells and kill the bacteria.
Researchers identified a novel mechanism where Chlamydia trachomatis tricks host cells into taking up the bacteria by coating itself with a growth factor made by the cells. This disguise creates a positive feedback loop, enabling bacterial infection and spread.
The TB bacterium has a unique molecule on its outer surface that blocks the production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a key protein in the body's immune response. This allows the bacterium to remain infectious and evade the host's defense.
A study found that residential washing machines often can't kill dangerous hospital-acquired bacteria at lower water temperatures. Washing with hot water and ironing afterwards can eliminate MRSA and Acinetobacter from uniforms.
Researchers identified a novel mechanism by which Burkholderia pseudomallei develops resistance to ceftazidime, making it difficult to detect. The study found that genetic mutations lead to the production of a protein important for bacterial cell division, rendering the drug ineffective.
Paul Kenis and James Slauch have been recognized as University Scholars for their exceptional contributions to the field of chemical engineering and microbiology. Their research focuses on developing novel microfluidic tools and studying Salmonella bacteria to understand its virulence and develop new treatments.
Researchers at Arizona State University are developing strategies to diagnose and prevent two of the most pervasive food-borne microbes, focusing on extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) and noroviruses. The new initiatives aim to improve food safety and reduce human illnesses, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Jennifer Juarez, a UTHealth doctoral student, has been awarded two research fellowships to study the spread of E. coli, a hard-to-treat bacterium that can lead to food poisoning and fatal disease. Her research focuses on understanding how bacterial cells divide and proliferate, paving the way for novel antibacterial treatments.
A study published in mBio reveals that the 2009 H1N1 pandemic flu virus causes more extensive damage to lung tissues than seasonal flu, making it more susceptible to bacterial infections like pneumonia. This damage compromises the protective epithelial cells, allowing bacteria to thrive and increase mortality.
A new compound has been developed to treat C diff infections, showing promise in killing and preventing the bacterium. The compound, MGB BP-3, is more effective than vancomycin in treating C diff and offers a potential solution for life-threatening infections.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have created a new technology that detects bacterial infections in wounds using ultra-violet light. The polymers, attached to antibiotics, bind to bacteria and fluoresce, alerting clinicians to the severity of infection and guiding antibiotic treatment.
Researchers are working with major UK retailers to reduce bacterial infections in chickens and lower food poisoning cases. The study focuses on improving chicken welfare to combat Campylobacter infection, a leading cause of food poisoning.
Jörn Coers is honored by the American Society for Microbiology for his work on immune responses against intracellular pathogens. His research focuses on host-pathogen interactions and has revealed key insights into diseases caused by Chlamydia.
Benjamin P. Howden, a leading expert in S. aureus and E. faecium research, receives the award for his groundbreaking work on antimicrobial resistance mechanisms and virulence. His research has led to new insights into vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus and reduced linezolid susceptibility.
A team of researchers from University of Houston and St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital are working to develop improved screening methods for detecting drug-resistant superbugs, specifically carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP). The bacteria can cause deadly infections in people with weakened immune systems.
Researchers analyzed the genome of a superbug called vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) to understand its resistance to antibiotics. They identified changes in genes that led to daptomycin resistance, offering insights into developing new drugs to combat this growing health threat.
Researchers found that children with malaria are more susceptible to bacteraemia due to the infection itself, not a natural protection from the sickle cell gene. Malaria prevention strategies may also reduce invasive bacterial infections, with an estimated 50% of cases in endemic areas attributed to Plasmodium falciparum.
Researchers developed a genetically modified Mycobacterium smegmatis vaccine that induces strong immune response in mice, protecting them from TB infection. The vaccine effectively lowers TB bacteria levels by 1,000 times compared to the current BCG vaccine.
The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary has received a $11 million grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease to coordinate a Harvard-wide project on antibiotic resistance. The goal is to develop new antibiotics to treat highly resistant infections caused by staph and other related bacteria.
Research reveals that Helicobacter pylori causes DNA breaks in gastric mucosa cells, triggering genetic mutations and cell death. The study's findings suggest that prolonged infections can lead to exhaustion of the cell's repair response, exacerbating gastric carcinogenesis.
A potential vaccine against tuberculosis has been found to completely eliminate the disease-causing bacteria from infected tissues in mice. The vaccine uses a modified strain of bacteria that triggers a specific immune response, providing longer protection and bactericidal immunity.
A new study found that plerixafor, a drug already approved for bone marrow transplants, corrects panleukopenia in patients with WHIM syndrome. This targeted therapy may provide a more effective treatment for this rare immune deficiency.
Researchers have devised a novel strategy for developing rapid, inexpensive diagnostic tests for microbial infections by identifying soluble microbial antigens. The InMAD system successfully identified antigens for biothreats Burkholderia pseudomallei and Francisella tularensis.
A study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that over 60% of hospital nurses' and doctors' uniforms tested positive for potentially dangerous bacteria. The study, led by Yonit Wiener-Well, MD, revealed a prevalence of antibiotic-resistant strains in close proximity to hospitalized patients.
A Johns Hopkins Children's Center study of over 3,000 hospitalized children reveals that those colonized with MRSA but not sick are at significant risk for developing full-blown infections. The study found nearly six times more likelihood of invasive MRSA infections among carriers compared to noncarriers.
Drs. Peter Cadieux and Hassan Razvi have been awarded a $566,000 grant as part of a $2.2 million initiative to explore novel coatings that significantly reduce bacterial adherence to urinary tract stents and catheters. The research aims to improve prevention and treatment of urinary device-associated infections.
Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a novel approach for studying molecules within their natural environment, allowing for unprecedented detail on bacterial infection mechanisms. The breakthrough utilizes a lateral molecular force microscope to measure biological phenomena directly on a living cell surface, enabling...
Research reveals that E. coli O157 can persist in the environment for over 15 weeks, making it essential for everyone to take precautions when visiting rural areas or consuming contaminated food and water. Farmers, visitors, and governments must adopt strategies to reduce risks and promote awareness about the dangers of this bacteria.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute successfully designed a new antibiotic that can target and kill the most resistant bacterial infections. The compound, an analogue of vancomycin, overcomes the resistance mechanism by altering the key atom in the peptidoglycan structure.
A common bacterium, Wolbachia, has been found to prevent the Aedes aegypti mosquito from transmitting the dengue virus, a major public health threat. The discovery offers a promising alternative to current control methods and could have a transformative effect on global health.
Researchers have successfully controlled Dengue fever in northern Australia by releasing Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes, which suppress the virus and prevent transmission. The study demonstrates a promising approach to eliminating this disease, with potential applications in other regions.
Researchers at the Trudeau Institute have discovered that FluMist elicits protection by inducing a very early non-specific immune response in the lungs, which is protective against both matching and non-matching influenza strains. This response also limits lung inflammation and reduces susceptibility to secondary bacterial infections.
Researchers found that coriander oil damages bacterial cell membranes, inhibiting essential processes and ultimately killing bacteria. The study suggests using coriander oil as a natural alternative to common antibiotics for treating food-borne illnesses and multidrug-resistant infections.
A study found that Afghan patients at a US military hospital in Afghanistan carry multidrug-resistant bacteria, posing a risk to both local and foreign patients. The high rate of MDR bacteria among Afghans is partly due to longer hospital stays.
Scientists have successfully tuned bacteriophage endolysins to increase their effectiveness against C. difficile, a common cause of hospital-acquired infections. The study proposes using truncated versions of these natural antimicrobials as a new weapon in the battle against superbugs.
Researchers have identified a key mechanism used by intestinal cells to defend against Clostridium difficile infections. A previously unknown protective response, known as nitrosylation, can be exploited to prevent toxin-induced cell damage.
A novel imaging probe has been developed to detect dangerous heart-valve infections, such as those caused by Staphylococcus aureus, noninvasively. The probe uses a radiolabeled version of prothrombin to reveal the presence of infected bacteria in mouse models.
A natural defense mechanism has been uncovered that inactivates the toxin spreading C. diff by binding to it with S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), a NO-based molecule. This finding provides a basis for developing new therapies targeting toxins directly.
Researchers identify a molecular process by which human cells can neutralize toxins released by Clostridium difficile, offering a promising new treatment for intestinal disease. The discovery could also be applied to other bacterial diseases and has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of hospital-acquired infections.
A new study found that a combination of minocycline and EDTA can prevent bacterial infections in dialysis patients using catheters, improving patient outcomes. The treatment reduced the risk of infection by half compared to traditional heparin use.
Scientists describe how a multipurpose protein on a virus tail bores into bacteria like a drill bit and clears debris. The 'Swiss Army Knife' protein enables the virus to pump its genetic material into bacteria, infecting them.
The number of hospitalizations for skin and soft-tissue infections, primarily caused by community-acquired Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), has more than doubled since 2000. Early treatment and recognition are crucial to preventing hospitalization.
A recent investigation found that a common strain of C. difficile, known as BI/NAP1, is endemic in Chicago-area acute care hospitals, putting patients at risk for severe disease. The outbreak strain was spread through patient transfers between healthcare facilities.
A new study suggests that moderate exercise can prevent age-related memory loss after a bacterial infection. Researchers found that older rats who ran on an exercise wheel showed improved cognitive function and reduced inflammation in the hippocampus compared to non-exercising rats.
A small amount of exercise has been shown to prevent exaggerated inflammation in the brain and long-lasting memory impairments following a bacterial infection. This study suggests that voluntary exercise can confer robust benefits for those who exercised, especially for older adults at risk of memory loss.
The World Health Organization has released updated guidelines for managing drug-resistant tuberculosis, highlighting the need for more research to improve disease management. Key recommendations include wider use of rapid drug susceptibility testing and ambulatory models of care.
Charles Darkoh, a UTHealth graduate student, has been awarded a prestigious UNCF/Merck fellowship to conduct research on multidrug-resistant Clostridium difficile bacterial infection. His work aims to develop a cost-efficient diagnostic test and novel therapeutic strategies for C. difficile infection.
Researchers found that individuals lacking TLR1 proteins are more susceptible to tuberculosis, leading to decreased immune function. The study suggests a potential approach for personalized therapy and prioritizing drug treatment in developing countries.
Researchers found that intravenous fluids can lower the odds of developing severe kidney failure in children infected with E. coli O157:H7, a common cause of pediatric kidney failure. The study suggests that early fluid administration may protect kidneys and reduce the need for dialysis.