Research on infections caused by bacteria and how to fight them. Covers antibiotic resistance, biofilms, congenital syphilis, Lyme disease, and precise treatments.
A University of Rochester Medical Center team has discovered an antibody that stops MRSA bacteria from growing, potentially leading to a vaccine. The researchers found that the antibody targets the glucosaminidase protein, breaking the bacteria's armor and preventing replication.
Recent research suggests that P. acnes within the body may be the cause of infections, contradicting previous assumptions about contamination from skin. This oversight could lead to incorrect diagnoses and complications if treated with the wrong bug.
Converting hospital ICUs to private rooms significantly reduces patient-acquired infections, including a 54% decrease in combined MRSA, VRE, and C difficile infections. The average ICU length of stay also decreases by an estimated 10% after transitioning to private rooms.
Bacteria, specifically Enterobacter hormaechei, found in excised atherosclerotic plaque tissue of patient who suffered a heart attack. The data suggest that chronic infection may underlie the process of atherosclerosis.
The Infectious Diseases Society of America has released its first-ever guidelines for the treatment of MRSA, which may mean not prescribing antibiotics for less complicated forms of infection. The guidelines address treatment of both common and invasive MRSA, a potentially deadly infection responsible for 18,000 deaths annually.
Hospitalized children in the US are experiencing a rise in Clostridium difficile infections, with increased risks of death, longer hospital stays and colectomy. Certain groups, such as white children and those with private insurance, are more susceptible to infection.
Researchers found 94% of samples contained bacterial remnants from previous infection, with seasonal differences between dry and rainy seasons. Environmental factors, such as cow dung and animal exposure, may contribute to the development of hydrocephalus.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a new screen to isolate virulent parts of pathogenic bacteria, enabling quicker identification of key areas for vaccine development. The technique has been used to study Burkholderia pseudomallei, a deadly human disease-causing bacteria.
The innate immune system deploys two effective strategies to deal with invasive bacterial infections, including an emergency backup plan involving interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), which stimulates white blood cell production. However, this backup system can also lead to chronic inflammation and organ damage if not managed properly.
Researchers recommend selective use of antibiotics to treat Acute Otitis Media in children, while employing watchful waiting in non-critical cases to combat treatment-resistant bacterial strains. The study aims to reduce the emergence of new resistant bacterial strains.
A study published in Journal of Medical Microbiology found that low-temperature plasma was effective in killing drug-resistant bacteria causing wound infections, and increased the rate of wound healing. Plasma therapy may offer a promising method to treat chronic wound infections where other approaches fail.
A new study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that cranberry juice had no significant effect on reducing the recurrence of urinary tract infections. Among participants who suffered a second infection, those who drank cranberry juice showed a higher recurrence rate compared to those who received a placebo.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that second-hand smoke exposure doubles the likelihood of invasive meningococcal disease in children, with strongest effects seen in youngest age groups. The study suggests reducing second-hand smoke exposure can reduce deaths and illness caused by invasive bacterial diseases.
Researchers from NIH have discovered a specific protein, PSM-beta, that biofilms use for growth, detachment and dissemination. Interfering with this protein could provide a way to stop the spread of biofilm-associated infection.
Researchers have identified bacterial products that enable Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms to detach from surfaces, leading to infection. Inhibiting these mechanisms could provide a new approach to preventing biofilm-associated infections.
Researchers have discovered a link between decreased alpha-2 integrin expression and increased tumor dissemination in breast and prostate cancer patients. Additionally, targeting blood vessel growth has been found to alleviate psoriasis symptoms by reducing angiogenesis.
A study of 10 nursing homes in California found that 31% of residents carried MRSA, with rates varying widely between facilities. The findings suggest that some nursing homes are effective in containing the bacteria, but more research is needed to understand their strategies.
Critically ill patients with bloodstream infections and pneumonia face a greatly increased risk of dying, but the impact of antimicrobial resistance on patient outcomes is relatively small. The study analyzed data from over 500 intensive care units in ten European countries, finding that infections directly worsen outcomes for patients.
A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that IBD patients with hospital-acquired infections experience increased mortality and prolonged hospital stays. The majority of infections among hospitalized IBD patients are health-care associated, with severe liver disease patients being at highest risk.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered that superantigens, produced by staphylococcus bacteria, can activate the immune system in more ways than previously thought. This complex interaction may be behind several illnesses, including long-term wound infections and autoimmune disorders.
A study published in Immunity describes a mechanism by which an infected cell can alert neighboring uninfected cells, leading to amplified inflammation and enhanced immunity. This 'cell-to-cell communication' strategy enables the host to circumvent immunosuppressive bacterial activity and defeat invaders.
A study found that various types of C. difficile are now common across European hospitals, with an average incidence rate of 4.1 per 10,000 patients per day. The most prevalent types were 014/020, 001, and 078, with type 027 being less common in Europe compared to other regions.
Researchers discovered key differences in how E. coli bacteria behave in humans compared to mice, identifying potential targets for a vaccine. The study's findings could lead to the development of a vaccine that saves billions in healthcare costs and millions of doctor visits annually.
Researchers will discuss guidelines for food allergy diagnosis and management, as well as primary immunodeficiency diseases such as Job's syndrome and DOCK8 deficiency. The meeting also addresses atopic dermatitis, a chronic skin disorder associated with dry, itchy skin.
A joint research project is investigating why some C. difficile cases are more difficult to treat, and how genetic factors contribute to relapses. The study aims to identify key factors that indicate a higher risk of relapse and develop new treatment strategies.
A new analysis of old data suggests that bacterial infections associated with the 1918 influenza pandemic may be important in modern pandemics. The study confirms the importance of Streptococcus pneumoniae vaccines in preventing pneumonia and death, which could lead to reduced mortality rates in future outbreaks
Mice lacking CEACAM1 have excess neutrophils but suffer from accelerated mortality due to liver damage and severe tissue harm. These findings suggest that natural mechanisms restraining white blood cell proliferation are crucial in treating infectious and auto-inflammatory disorders.
A Purdue University study reveals that Listeria can pass between intestinal cells and trigger a mechanism to increase its ability to enter the cells. This allows the bacteria to cause infection even at low doses.
Researchers suggest vancomycin as the better treatment option for managing hospitalized patients with cellulitis, showing improved outcomes and discharge times compared to B-lactam antibiotics. The study found that intravenous vancomycin treatment was associated with faster recovery and reduced hospital stay duration.
Scientists are developing new drugs to block bacterial signals that trigger infections, a process known as quorum sensing. Research suggests that targeting certain signaling molecules could lead to effective treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections.
Researchers have developed techniques to permanently bind antibacterial coatings to medical devices, aiming to prevent the formation of biofilms that can cause infection. The new coatings use a plasma polymer layer and novel diterpene compounds derived from Australian plants to effectively target bacteria.
Scientists have developed a new polymer-type material that exhibits biocidal activity toward MRSA and other Gram-negative bacteria when exposed to light, making it suitable for antibacterial countertops. The conjugated polyelectrolyte (CPE) material has shown promising results in killing bacteria without harming mammalian cells.
Researchers found a 65% increased incidence of C difficile associated diarrhea among proton pump inhibitor users. The introduction of National Hospital Quality Measures also led to an increase in antibiotic use, contributing to rising C difficile rates.
Researchers at the University of Calgary have discovered that damaged tissue can release signals that attract white blood cells, leading to inappropriate inflammation. The team used innovative imaging techniques to observe this process in real-time, shedding light on potential new treatments for inflammatory diseases.
The US Department of Defense has awarded a $1.5 million grant to develop and test nanoemulsion technology against a wide range of wound infections, including drug-resistant forms. The project aims to create a broadly effective treatment that can prevent infection, increase survival and enable rapid healing in wounded military personnel.
Researchers trick Staphylococcus aureus bacteria into embedding foreign small molecules within their cell walls by manipulating an enzyme. This discovery could lead to novel therapeutics and real-time monitoring of diseases.
Researchers at Notre Dame have discovered that certain bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, can move and stand upright on surfaces for extended periods. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding bacterial behavior and potentially developing new treatments for infections.
Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed a new method to generate three-dimensional tissue models for studying bacterial infection of orthopedic implants. The microfluidic devices mimic the human body's conditions, allowing for realistic bone tissue growth and analysis of antibiotic delivery.
Researchers found that chronic infection with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is independently linked to an increased risk of exacerbations in CF patients, as well as lower lung function.
A UC Irvine infectious disease specialist is leading a three-year study on new methods to prevent staph infections in people with MRSA bacteria. The project aims to reduce MRSA infection risk across the continuum of inpatient and outpatient care.
Researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital are developing a new method to distinguish between bacterial and viral infections in infants using RNA biosignatures. The five-year study aims to improve diagnosis and treatment for serious bacterial infections such as bacteremia and meningitis, which can be life-threatening.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of Culex quinquefasciatus, a mosquito species that transmits West Nile virus. The study provides insights into disease transmission and offers a platform for comparative studies to investigate interactions between viruses and mosquitoes.
Researchers mapped infection-response genes in Culex quinquefasciatus to better understand its role in transmitting diseases such as West Nile virus and lymphatic filariasis. The study aims to broaden the understanding of immunity genes beyond those expected, potentially providing a new approach to controlling mosquito-borne diseases.
Researchers discovered a reservoir of rapidly replicating Salmonella inside epithelial cells, which are then pushed out into the gut cavity, triggering an inflammatory response. This understanding may lead to a treatment that prevents the spread of infection and sheds light on the mechanisms behind acute intestinal inflammation.
A team of scientists from Mayo Clinic, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and J. Craig Venter Institute are investigating the relationship between vaginal microbiota and preterm birth. They aim to identify microbial risk predictors for preterm birth using genomic information from the Human Microbiome Project.
Researchers have discovered a mechanism to detect bacteria in the womb, opening up new possibilities for preventative treatments. This unique environment relies on a simpler form of immunity called the innate system, as the adaptive response is underdeveloped.
Researchers will test NC State-created molecules against different types of animal cells infected with bacteria, aiming to develop effective treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections. The project aims to identify leading candidates that both revive antibiotics' effectiveness and have a low toxicity profile.
A recent study published by the American Chemical Society found that cranberry juice is effective in preventing urinary tract infections. The study revealed that cranberry juice cocktail can prevent E. coli bacteria from sticking to other bacteria and surfaces, allowing it to be flushed out of the urinary tract more easily.
Researchers have developed a new generation of antibiotics that can overcome drug-resistant bacteria, such as MRSA. By harnessing the enzymes that inactivate antibiotics, the team created modified drugs that are effective against resistant bacterial strains.
Scientists from Oxford University found that Alpine pennycress plants accumulate zinc, nickel, and cadmium to defend against bacterial infection. The study demonstrates a direct link between metal concentrations and resistance to disease.
A new study by Henry Ford Hospital has found that patients with heteroresistance (hVISA) to vancomycin are at a higher risk of mortality and recurrence after MRSA infections. Patients with hVISA were more likely to die from the infection, stay in the hospital longer, and experience returns of the infection.
Researchers have found a new potential treatment target for bone disease osteomyelitis by interrupting the bacterial death signal that instructs bone cells to die. Blocking this signal could prevent or treat painful bone infections resistant to antibiotics.
Scientists discovered antibiotic properties in cockroach and locust brains, killing over 90% of MRSA and E. coli bacteria without harming human cells.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have found that bacteria that do not cooperate with their infection-causing colleagues can reduce infection severity. By exploiting this selfish behavior, QS-deficient bacteria can outnumber and outcompete other bacteria, leading to reduced toxin production and milder infections.
Research discovers that uncooperative bacteria can benefit from 'opting out' of toxin production, reducing infection severity and outnumbering other bacteria. This new treatment approach could complement current therapies for antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections.
Lestria bacteria can overcome harsh acidic conditions by exploiting key food ingredients like glutamate, neutralising acid and passing through the stomach unscathed. Consuming Lestria in one food may be safe, but eating it in another could be lethal due to varying food matrix properties.
Duke University researchers identified two genes influencing susceptibility to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. The study suggests that genetic clues can help inform patient management and drug development, potentially saving lives.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have found that cranberry juice cocktail significantly reduces the ability of certain bacteria to form biofilms on surfaces. This study has potential applications in developing new antibiotics and making medical devices more resistant to bacterial adhesion.
A new antibacterial peptide has shown great effectiveness against multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Escherichia coli infections in burn wounds. The peptide A3-APO is less toxic than current antibiotics and offers a promising alternative for treating these common infections in soldiers.
Scientists have found a promising treatment method that neutralizes the key toxin associated with S. aureus skin infections, reducing damage and promoting faster recovery in laboratory mice. The study suggests antitoxin treatment could be an effective alternative to traditional antibiotics.