Articles tagged with Bacterial Infections
Researchers developed a virus that knocks out bacterial defense systems, enhancing the effectiveness of antibiotics. The engineered virus targets specific bacterial genes, preventing resistance from developing and increasing survival rates in mice infected with resistant bacteria.
Researchers uncover way to genetically modify Clostridium difficile and solve mystery surrounding its toxicity, revealing toxin B as the cause of severe disease. The discovery has the potential to save lives and healthcare systems billions of dollars annually.
Researchers identify PARF motif bacteria as cause of rheumatic fever, a precursor to rheumatic heart disease. A new test strip reacting to the PARF motif is being developed to filter out cases and treat them at an early stage.
New research finds that universal childhood vaccination against meningococcal C has significantly reduced the incidence of the most deadly strain of bacterial meningitis in Canada. Provinces with early implementation of the vaccine program showed a dramatic decline in cases, while those introduced later showed no major changes.
Scientists have found that combining FDA-approved drugs meropenem and clavulanate is effective in killing laboratory-grown strains of Mtb, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis. This breakthrough could lead to a new treatment option for people infected with XDR TB, a rare but deadly form of multidrug-resistant TB.
Researchers identified two molecules, yersiniabactin and salmochelin, that enable E. coli to survive and reproduce by stealing iron from their hosts. This discovery presents a potential way to selectively eradicate pathogenic E.coli strains without affecting beneficial ones.
Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine found that bacteria causing urinary tract infections produce compounds called siderophores to steal iron from their hosts. These tools provide a potential way to target bad strains of bacteria for eradication without affecting good strains. The discovery could lead to new treatment...
A study published in JAMA found that MRSA central line-associated BSIs declined significantly in all six adult ICU types and remained stable in pediatric ICUs from 2001-2007. The decline is attributed to improved adherence to prevention guidelines, better care practices, and reduced transmission between patients.
A recent CDC study reveals a steady decline in intensive care unit catheter-associated MRSA bloodstream infections since 2001. SHEA President Mark Rupp emphasizes the need to focus on preventing infections caused by multiple organisms rather than just one, such as MRSA.
Researchers find increasing risk of staph infections from ocean beach users, but also discover sponge and coral-derived chemicals that could break down antibiotic-resistant compounds. New tools to fight antibiotic resistance have been identified, including novel antibiotics and chemicals with potential for personalized medicine.
Research reveals swimmers using public ocean beaches increase their risk for staph organism exposure and potential infections. Taking precautions like showering before entry can reduce the risk of infection.
Researchers from MIT indicate that underlying gastrointestinal infections increase severity of acute diarrhea and delay recovery. The analysis provides a model for evaluating new preventive strategies or therapeutic treatments.
Researchers have discovered a transient protective effect of herpesvirus infections in mice, suggesting possible benefits against bacterial pathogens. The findings, confirmed by Dr. Marcia Blackman's team, contradict previous suggestions that vaccinated individuals may experience unintended negative consequences.
Researchers at Scripps Institute successfully capture the crystal structure of an intermediate viral particle, revealing a dynamic process of protein coat assembly. The study provides fresh insights into viral protein interactions and suggests potential targets for interrupting virus assembly.
Researchers have developed a nanoemulsion that effectively kills a wide range of bacteria resistant to antibiotics, including those causing cystic fibrosis. The treatment uses ultra-fine oil-and-water emulsions that disrupt bacterial outer membranes, making resistance unlikely and offering a potential alternative to antibiotics.
Researchers at UBC discovered a mimic of nature's antibiotic that can protect surfaces from bacteria and fungi, potentially reducing medical problems like degeneration or rejection of implants. The synthetic peptides are active when attached to surfaces, killing harmful bacteria and fungus.
The lack of new antibiotics is exacerbating the antibiotic resistance crisis, with 'super bugs' becoming increasingly difficult to treat. The divide between research and development, and real-world application is hindering efforts to combat these life-threatening infections.
A new study suggests that a twist on old medical technology could save limbs by treating infections in soldiers with compound bone fractures. Colistin-laced bone cement may prevent the spread of deadly A. baumannii infections, which are widespread among US troops in Afghanistan.
Research found that Helicobacter pylori can multiply in autophagic vesicles within macrophages, increasing resistance to antibiotics and evading the immune system. This discovery has significant implications for understanding the life cycle of H. pylori and potential new drug targets.
Research by Arizona State University scientists reveals that APEC can be transmitted from poultry to humans through shared genetic material, highlighting the need for a vaccine to prevent infections. The study identified key genes responsible for disease-causing effects and suggests these could be used to develop vaccine candidates.
A new study reveals that non-food factors such as swimming and private well water exposure pose significant risks for sporadic bacterial enteric infections, comparable to food-borne risk factors. The findings highlight the importance of controlling these environmental exposures to prevent outbreaks.
Lung airway epithelial cells initiate an immune response to inhaled bacteria by signaling white blood cells to move into the lungs. Researchers have identified a way to inhibit proteases and restrict junctions between cells, reducing inflammation and allowing optimal white blood cell response.
Researchers have decoded the language of memory cells that protect against re-infection, a breakthrough in understanding immunological memory development. The study reveals distinct program generates memory cells for vaccine effectiveness and cancer research applications.
A study by University of Iowa researchers has documented MRSA in swine and swine workers in the US for the first time. The investigation found a high prevalence rate of MRSA among swine and swine handlers, suggesting transmission between animals and humans.
Rates of antibiotic-resistant head and neck infections increased significantly in pediatric patients nationwide between 2001 and 2006. MRSA rates rose from 11.8 percent to 28.1 percent during this period, with the highest proportion found in ear infections.
Researchers have visualized the molecular structure of the LtaS enzyme, a key player in MRSA's growth and spread. The team hopes to develop a new antibiotic targeting this enzyme to combat the superbug.
A three-year study using gene knock-out technology aims to discover why C. difficile causes severe disease and kills more people. The HYPERDIFF study will lead to better tests, treatments, and possibly a vaccine.
A new study assesses the risk of disease transmission from Yellowstone bison to cattle and proposes cost-effective management solutions. The alternatives suggested by the study, such as buying grazing rights or testing all cattle within a special zone around the park, highlight substantial benefits and consequences.
Researchers found TB bacteria send signals that encourage granuloma formation, which actually helps the bacteria expand and spread. This new understanding suggests a potential new therapy avenue for treating drug-resistant TB.
Researchers at NC State University and CDC have isolated a new Bartonella species, B. melophagi, from human blood samples, linking it to human illness. The discovery expands the list of documented human pathogens and highlights the need for further research into transmission routes and disease development.
NYU researchers found that Staphylococcus aureus can co-opt bacteriophages to transfer toxic genes to unrelated bacteria, including Listeria monocytogenes. This discovery raises concerns about the potential for bacterial toxin exchange and antibiotic resistance.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology found that 60% of bacteria present in women with intra-amniotic inflammations were missed by traditional culture testing. The researchers identified a comprehensive list of microbial species using new DNA methods, including harmful bacteria not previously linked to preterm birth.
Scientific evidence supports the use of copper surfaces to reduce hospital-acquired infections. Clinical trials demonstrate a significant reduction in micro-organisms on copper alloys compared to stainless steel and plastic.
Scientists used live animal imaging to study chronic Listeria infection harbored in bone marrow, finding persistent patches of bacteria. The researchers also explored attenuated strains of Listeria for cancer treatment, but it's unclear if bacterial persistence affects therapeutic effects.
A recent Mayo Clinic study found adults with asthma are seven times more likely to develop invasive pneumococcal diseases, a serious and potentially fatal condition. The researchers recommend including asthma as an indication for pneumococcal vaccination in adults, which could significantly reduce instances of this disease.
ETH Zurich researchers discovered a previously unknown protein structure and mechanism for sulfur transfer in E. coli, which could lead to the development of antibacterial drugs targeting urinary tract infections. The unique two-propeller structure of ASST catalyzes a ping-pong mechanism for sulfuryl transfer.
Researchers discovered that phenazine molecules activate the transcription factor SoxR in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, influencing biofilm formation and gene expression. This finding suggests that tampering with phenazine trafficking could make antibiotics more effective against CF patients' infections.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine found that a fruit fly's immune system responds to infections based on its daily cycle and circadian rhythms. The study suggests that understanding the relationship between sleep patterns and immunity could have significant implications for human health.
Research reveals that the immune system's phagocytic response is stronger at night and weaker during the day, with flies infected at night showing improved survival rates. The study suggests that circadian proteins play a crucial role in regulating immunity, particularly during restorative functions like sleep.
Researchers have discovered that manipulating salmonella bacteria in space can reduce their infectiousness. The study found that microgravity alters the expression of genes related to virulence, with pathogenic cells displaying a significant increase in disease potential.
A team of University of Cincinnati researchers has found that zinc plays a crucial role in the formation of biofilms that cause hospital-acquired infections. By removing zinc from bacterial cells, they were able to prevent biofilm formation and growth, offering new hope for preventing these infections.
Researchers have identified genetic clues to Pseudomonas aeruginosa's success that will aid in the design of novel therapeutic strategies for cystic fibrosis patients. The study found that prophage genes contribute to the strain's ability to adapt to specific environments.
The Infectious Diseases Society of America warns that new drugs are desperately needed to treat six drug-resistant bacteria, including MRSA and gram-negative pathogens. The society outlines steps to tackle the shortage and urges cooperation among industry, academia, and government.
Researchers at UCLA found that vitamin D stimulates cathelicidin production in placental tissues, enhancing antibacterial responses and protecting trophoblast cells from infection. The study suggests that pregnant women supplementing with vitamin D may enhance placental innate immunity.
Researchers have uncovered how a bacterial pathogen interacts with blood coagulation protein fibrinogen to cause MRSA infections. They found that agents could be designed to inhibit the ClfA–Fg interaction without interfering with platelet activation, offering new avenues for anti-staphococcal treatment.
An experimental TB drug called PA-824 has been found to work by producing nitric oxide gas, which kills the bacteria. The discovery could lead to the development of new drugs against other disease-causing bacteria, as humans lack the bacterial enzyme needed for the drug's effect.
Researchers discovered that serious gram-negative bacterial infections increase by up to 46% in summer compared to winter. The study found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii are the most affected bacteria.
Researchers found that brown rats in Europe carry several pathogenic species of Bartonella bacteria, including B. elizabethae, which can cause heart disease in humans. The study raises concerns about the existence of other reservoirs and vectors for this emerging infection.
Researchers at the University of Florida and the University of New Mexico have developed microscopic spheres that trap and kill harmful bacteria using conducting polymers and singlet oxygen. The spheres, dubbed 'roach motels,' showed promising results in killing over 95% of nearby bacteria after exposure to light.
Researchers found that Mycobacterium tuberculosis uses foamy macrophage formation to survive in infected individuals. These 'foamy' cells provide a nutrient-rich reservoir for the bacteria, allowing it to persist in a dormant state.
A new research study at Cardiff University aims to understand and regulate a patient's immune response to infections, which is crucial for treating end-stage kidney disease. The three-year grant will enable the multidisciplinary team to investigate the consequences of bacterial infection on patients with peritoneal dialysis.
Researchers from the University of Texas Medical School at Houston have discovered two new clones of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, MRSA and VREF, in Colombia. These super bugs are causing severe skin and soft tissue infections, with 20% mortality rate, and are resistant to common antibiotics.
Between 2002 and 2006, antibiotic use increased significantly at academic medical centers, driven by broader-spectrum agents and vancomycin. This trend is concerning, as it can lead to the development of drug-resistant bacteria, increasing illness, death, and healthcare costs.
New computer-based models describe how bacteria act within blood vessels and can be filtered out, offering insights into treatment options for bacteremia and sepsis. The models validate laboratory experiments in mice and have implications for developing new treatments for deadly bacterial infections.
A new national survey by Queen's University shows that despite increased investment in infection control since the SARS crisis, the number of resistant bacterial infections has multiplied. The study highlights a need for continued investment in infection control resources and programs to combat the growing threat of superbugs.
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have discovered that elevated levels of interleukin-1 beta can initiate the progression towards stomach cancer. The study found that IL-1β works by activating myeloid derived suppressor cells, which are pro-inflammatory and contribute to gastric inflammation.
A study found that disease-causing bacteria exploit the killing machinery of immune cells by increasing the production of an enzyme called arginase. This allows them to survive within macrophages, a type of white blood cell. The researchers observed improved outcomes in mice lacking this enzyme when infected with certain pathogens.
A review of commonly used C. difficile test kits found inaccurate results, leading to misdiagnosis and severe consequences. A new two-stage testing system is proposed to improve diagnostic accuracy and reduce false positives and negatives.
Researchers found a positive correlation between learning performance and immune response in bumblebees, contradicting previous predictions. Bumblebee colonies with strong learning abilities also showed improved resistance to bacterial infection.
A potent bacterial toxin targets human cells expressing Neu5Gc, a sugar incorporated from diet, making humans susceptible to disease. Red meat and dairy products are richest dietary sources of Neu5Gc, increasing the risk of E. coli infection.