Research on infections caused by bacteria and how to fight them. Covers antibiotic resistance, biofilms, congenital syphilis, Lyme disease, and precise treatments.
Researchers at U-M will explore how genetic variations of C. difficile, gut microbiota, and immune response influence the disease. The project aims to develop better prevention measures, treatments, and ways to prevent recurrence.
Pathogens such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae use a delayed entry strategy to survive in the human body, strengthening cellular skeletons and anchoring to cell surfaces. This new understanding may have exciting implications for preventing infection with various bacterial agents.
Two independent research groups demonstrate that induced pluripotent stem cells can be used to model diseases of the liver and generate functional hepatocytes with proliferative capabilities. These findings expand our understanding of iPS cell technology's potential for cell replacement therapy and modeling human disease.
Researchers discovered a new strategy used by bacterial pathogens like Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Escherichia coli, which delay entry into cells to prolong extracellular existence and survive. This strategy involves triggering local strengthening of the cellular skeleton that resists pathogen entry.
Researchers found that cranberry juice cocktail prevents E. coli from sticking to other bacteria and forming biofilms, which can lead to urinary tract infections. The study suggests that the beneficial substances in cranberry juice could reach the urinary tract within 8 hours after consumption.
Research found high glucose levels can form a 'sugar coating' that blocks immune receptors, increasing the risk of chronic bacterial and fungal infections in diabetes patients. This can lead to increased risks of viral infections like influenza and inflammatory conditions like cardiovascular disease.
Researchers have uncovered a critical mechanism by which Vibrio parahaemolyticus kills cells and causes food poisoning. The study reveals that the bacterium uses a molecule called VPA0450 to remove a phosphate from host-cell membranes, leading to cell destruction.
Scientists have discovered that Helicobacter pylori needs vitamin B6 to cause and maintain stomach infections. Researchers used a mouse model to identify the importance of PdxA and PdxJ enzymes in bacterial pathogenesis, paving the way for novel antibiotic treatments.
Most hospitals surveyed have adopted hand-hygiene practices to prevent MRSA spread. The study found that nearly all hospitals review antimicrobial prescription orders to reduce bacterial resistance.
Two studies identify key targets for a new MRSA vaccine, targeting protein A to evade the immune system and clotting factors to disrupt tissue-damaging mechanisms. This approach shows promise in reducing virulence and providing lasting immunity against drug-resistant staph infections.
A new coating, combining carbon nanotubes with the natural enzyme lysostaphin, has been created to safely eradicate MRSA from surfaces. The coating is effective, selective and stable, and does not rely on antibiotics or leach chemicals into the environment.
A team of marine microbiologists at Newcastle University have discovered that bacteria can detect airborne chemicals like ammonia using a molecular 'nose'. This ability leads to the production of biofilms, which are major causes of infection on medical implants and cost the marine industry millions every year.
A new method of DNA sequencing has helped researchers uncover the phylogeny of a healthy dog's gut, shedding light on how diet affects gastrointestinal infections. The study found that dogs have diverse bacterial communities, with Firmicutes and Bacteriodetes being the most prevalent.
Severe inflammatory responses to initial UTI damage bladder walls and allow infection to persist longer. Suppressing immune system during initial infection decreases vulnerabilities to later infection.
A new gene that enables bacteria to resist almost all antibiotics has been found in patients from India, Pakistan, and the UK, posing a serious global public health threat. The rapid emergence of these multi-drug resistant bacteria highlights the need for close international monitoring and surveillance.
Researchers have discovered that Helicobacter pylori's CagA protein disables the tumor suppressor protein RUNX3 in host cells, leading to gastric cancer. The interaction between CagA and RUNX3 causes degradation of the protein via ubiquitination, promoting aberrant cell growth and cancer development.
Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology are developing novel methods to prevent bacterial infections in orthopedic implants, such as inkjet printing of drug-eluting micropatterns. This technology aims to overcome the challenge of biofilm formation and promote rapid bone healing.
A study by Caltech researchers found that specific intestinal bacteria can induce MS-like symptoms in animals, suggesting a link between gut microbes and the disease. The bacteria, from the segmented filamentous bacteria group, were able to replicate and cause inflammation in both the gut and central nervous system.
Scientists at NIH identify novel Staphylococcus aureus toxin LukGH, which destroys human immune cells and increases MRSA severity. The toxin is secreted into the environment, forming pores in neutrophils that lead to their destruction.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have identified the molecular forces that enable cranberry juice to fight off urinary tract infections. The study suggests that fimbriae on E. coli bacteria are essential for infection, and that cranberry juice can weaken their attachment to human cells.
A new study led by Keith Ramsey at Pitt County Memorial Hospital (PCMH) demonstrates that universal surveillance for MRSA decreased health care-associated infections (HAIs) related to devices by 68% for ventilator-associated pneumonias, 51% for central line-associated bacteremias, and 49% for catheter-associated urinary tract infections.
Methodist Dallas Medical Center stopped an Acinetobacter outbreak by testing patients, implementing contact precautions, and conducting regular meetings between departments. The hospital's swift response was attributed to adequate resources, staffing, and a supportive administration.
Scientists have identified a promising target for a strategic hit in bacteria that could help halt reproduction and reduce the spread of infections. The research, led by Dr. Antonio J. Martín-Galiano and professor José M. Andreu, maps out a protein called FtsZ, which is crucial for bacterial cell division.
Researchers discovered an alternative form of evolution that helps Drosophila flies defend against nematode parasites. This finding has significant implications for developing treatments for serious human diseases like river blindness.
Researchers document a novel form of adaptation through natural selection in bacteria-infected flies, which use co-opted genetic material to develop a defense against nematodes. The study reveals the rapid spread of beneficial bacteria across North America, increasing frequency from 10% to 80% in just two decades.
Researchers found that bacterial communication promotes persistence and resistance to antibiotics in ear infections caused by multiple bacteria species, particularly Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis. Disrupting this communication could lead to effective treatments for chronic ear infections.
Research highlights potential problems with breathing system filters, which allow substantial passage of bacteria and yeast when wet. Commonly available filters cannot be relied upon to prevent bacterial transfer, posing a risk to patients.
Researchers identified defensin-1 protein in honey as a potent antibacterial agent, showing promise in treating burns, skin infections, and combating antibiotic-resistant infections. The discovery sheds light on the inner workings of honey bee immune systems, potentially leading to healthier bees.
Researchers analyzed bacterial populations in the noses and throats of seven healthy adults using two culture-independent methods. They found distinct differences between nasal and throat bacteria, with some groups more prevalent in one area than the other.
A recent study found that naturally occurring protein IL-10 can prevent and reverse brain damage caused by meningitis in newborns. The research suggests that IL-10 acts to clear antibiotic-sensitive and antibiotic-resistant E. coli from the circulation, thereby preventing or restoring damaged brain tissue.
A new study reveals that certain T cells delay their arrival to fight tuberculosis-causing bacteria, reducing the immune response. Regulatory T cells activate at the same time as effector T cells, hindering the body's ability to combat TB.
Researchers found that gamma interferon prompts the activation of hematopoietic stem cells, which produce immune system cells to combat infections. Chronic infections like tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS may lead to bone marrow exhaustion due to sustained activity by these stem cells.
The study reveals a small chemical makes Staphylococcus aureus stronger, more infectious and resistant to antibiotics. Shutting down this synthesis renders the bacteria non-functional and non-infectious.
A new study led by the University of Maryland School of Medicine reveals that vaginal microbes can vary significantly between healthy women, even among those from the same ethnicity. The research identifies five main groups of microbial communities and finds that certain communities are more common in Hispanic and black women.
Scientists have discovered that CCL5 plays a protective role in warding off tuberculosis by attracting immune cells to infection sites. The protein may lead to new therapies that help the immune system resist TB, providing hope for treating this global disease.
A new treatment stimulates the host immune system to destroy invading microbes, protecting against tularemia and other disease-causing bacteria. The therapy has broad usage and potential for future use as a treatment alternative to antibiotics.
Six collaborative research projects aim to develop treatments, vaccines, or antimicrobial products for gastric flu, hepatitis B, dengue fever, and tuberculosis. Researchers will work together to shed light on bacterial signaling pathways and train immune cells to overcome viral infections.
Researchers at Mangalore University have developed a novel method to generate silver nanoparticles using electron beam irradiation, which shows high activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including MRSA and E. coli O157.
A University of Tennessee study found high-risk water sources in East Tennessee contain fecal contamination, including E.coli, coliforms, Bacteroides, and infectious viruses. This highlights a potential health hazard for rural residents who drink untreated groundwater.
Enterococci bacteria are becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics, posing a significant threat to hospital-acquired infections. K-State researcher Lynn Hancock is studying the formation of biofilms that enable these bacteria to resist antibiotics and cause severe infections.
Scientists have found a way for pathogenicity islands to detect viruses and eliminate repression, allowing them to transfer virulent genes to other harmless bacteria. This discovery could lead to new treatments for bacterial infections and diseases caused by toxins.
Researchers discovered an identical gene for antibiotic resistance in human and animal samples, suggesting its transfer between bacteria species. This finding poses a risk to the treatment of common human infections like UTIs, which are increasingly difficult to treat due to rising antibiotic resistance.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that bacterial cells 'vote' on their fate based on sub-cellular variables, rather than random chemical events. This discovery challenges the long-held assumption that cell fate decisions are determined by environmental noise.
Researchers design plastics to capture signaling molecules, blocking bacterial infection and biofilm formation. The approach aims to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and reduce the risk of infections.
A team of researchers led by Malak Kotb has found that as dominant members of a bacterial community surrender to host immune defenses, they are replaced by a hyperaggressive, mutant minority population that thrives and takes over. This study provides new insights into the dynamics of bacterial evolution in live species.
A new bacterial species found in the fly that transmits African sleeping sickness has been identified as a potential tool for controlling the disease. The bacterium, named Serratia glossinae, has shown promise in killing the parasite that causes the disease and could lead to new treatment strategies.
A recent study published in the journal Surgery found that mechanical bowel preparations (MBPs) do not reduce perioperative infectious complications in patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy. The researchers analyzed data from over 200 patients and concluded that MBPs have no clinical benefit for this procedure.
Researchers have created a two-in-one formula combining an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drug, delivered via nano-sized particles that extend medication duration. This development holds promise for easier treatment of bacterial keratitis, potentially reducing hospitalization rates.
A North Carolina State University researcher found that bacteria from insect bites can be passed to human babies by the mother, causing chronic infections. The study suggests a possible link between maternal infection with bacteria like Bartonella and birth defects.
Researchers found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria can inhibit Candida albicans biofilm formation on silicone surfaces. This discovery could lead to the development of new antimicrobial drugs and additives to prevent hospital-acquired fungal infections.
A team of scientists has turned an ornamental plant into a tool for combating citrus greening, a bacterial disease threatening the world's citrus crop. Periwinkle plants were found to be effective in screening treatments and responded well to antibiotic compounds tested to reduce infection rates.
Researchers found that antibodies from HIV-infected Africans bind to LPS, blocking protective 'killing' antibodies. Removing these antibodies allows for effective killing of Salmonella bacteria. The study identifies potential alternative vaccine targets in outer membrane proteins.
Research reveals that pathogenic strains of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) cause urinary tract infections by binding to bladder cells and triggering high levels of interleukin, an inflammatory cytokine. GBS infection may be more common than previously thought due to lack of clear risk factors.
Richard Goldstein, a professor at Boston University School of Medicine, has been awarded an Individual Biomedical Research Award for his project on developing a vaccine against Streptococcus pneumoniae. The proposed vaccine targets highly conserved surface proteins across all pneumococcal strains.
Long-term elder care residents, HIV-infected and hemodialysis patients are at increased risk of carrying MRSA in their noses. The study found varying quantities of MRSA, with some individuals having as few as 3 colonies and others up to 15 million.
An experimental immune-boosting drug that increases type I interferon production hastens tuberculosis (TB) in mice. The treatment also draws more macrophages to the lungs, where TB bacteria thrive, leading to severe lung tissue damage and worsened disease outcomes.
Bacteria recognize and develop resistance to vancomycin through a specific sensing mechanism. The discovery provides new understanding of the molecular basis of vancomycin resistance and represents an essential first step in developing new antibiotics that can evade bacterial sensing mechanisms.
ARS scientists have developed a method to access and ferment almost all plant sugars in wheat straw, boosting ethanol output by 93 gallons per ton. However, they also found that certain bacteria can infect ethanol plants, causing yield decreases of up to 27%.
A chemical compound, when combined with antibiotics, effectively destroys biofilms produced by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The compound also re-sensitizes resistant bacteria to antibiotics, making it a promising treatment for difficult-to-treat infections.
Researchers found that thyme essential oil can almost completely eliminate bacteria within 60 minutes, with high efficacy against Staphylococcus species. The study suggests that essential oils could be a cheap and effective alternative to antibiotics, reducing the risk of new strains of antibiotic-resistant micro-organisms.