Research on infections caused by bacteria and how to fight them. Covers antibiotic resistance, biofilms, congenital syphilis, Lyme disease, and precise treatments.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital discovered a critical protein, NLRP11, that alerts the body to bacterial infections and initiates an effective immune response. This finding may lead to improved 'humanized' mouse models of infections and diseases involving the immune system.
A multidisciplinary team will investigate six antibiotic-resistant organisms, including MRSA and VRE, in 50 nursing homes using computer simulation models and scientific methods. The research aims to elucidate detection methods, spread drivers, and risk factors for MDROs, informing infection prevention policies.
A new study suggests that bacterial testing in children with sinusitis could greatly reduce unnecessary antibiotic use. By identifying which children are likely to benefit from antibiotics, doctors can avoid prescribing medications to those who wouldn't see improvement in symptoms.
A Kenya-based study found that menstrual cups reduced the risk of bacterial vaginosis and improved vaginal microbiome in teenage girls. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, followed 436 Kenyan secondary school girls and tested for infections every six months.
Researchers found that competition between beneficial bacterial strains degrades the service they provide to plants, resulting in smaller benefits. The study used native California plant and eight compatible nitrogen-fixing bacterial strains to directly measure their ability to infect plants and provide benefits.
A study reveals that specific bacteria drive the evolution of antimicrobial peptides in Drosophila, providing insights into how host immune systems adapt to new ecological niches. The findings also suggest a new model for AMP-microbiome evolution.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a rapid test that detects bladder infections using bacteriophages, which can identify the pathogenic bacteria in under four hours. The test also allows for tailored phage therapy, predicting patient response and increasing treatment effectiveness.
Scientists discovered two peptides in fruit flies that specifically target common bacteria, showing how the immune system evolves to combat threats. This research provides insights into human susceptibility to infections and may lead to new approaches to fighting antibiotic-resistant infections.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that NSAIDs exacerbate C. difficile infections by disrupting epithelial cell mitochondria, sensiting them to toxins. The study shows that NSAIDs and C. difficile toxins work synergistically to increase virulence, leading to increased disease severity and mortality.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science successfully synthesized tanzawaic acid B in large amounts, paving the way for new antibiotic development. The breakthrough method could lead to creation of various compounds for pharmaceuticals, including new antibiotic candidates.
Research reveals that asymptomatic throat carriage of Streptococcus pyogenes is the primary source of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections in high-risk communities. This discovery challenges previous understanding of GAS transmission and has significant implications for public health approaches, vaccine development, and future research.
Researchers discuss treatment refractory forms of chronic sinusitis, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary diagnostics and therapy. Fungal infections are a rare cause, yet crucial to consider when treating this condition.
Researchers have developed a new method to detect antibiotic resistances in Proteus mirabilis, enabling faster identification of potentially resistant strains. The algorithm uses cutting-edge molecular biology methods and can determine whether a bacterial strain is susceptible to carbapenem antibiotics.
Researchers found a strong association between certain gut bacteria and coronary atherosclerotic plaques, which can lead to heart attacks. The study analyzed gut bacteria and cardiac imaging data from over 8,900 participants and identified Streptococcus species as key players.
Researchers discovered that combining honey and vinegar can effectively kill bacteria in biofilms, making it a potential treatment for persistent infections. The study found that using both honey and acetic acid was more effective than using either substance alone.
Researchers detected Orientia bacteria in chiggers at high frequency in North Carolina recreational parks. The bacterium causes a disease similar to Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which can be fatal if left untreated.
Researchers identified a new drug treatment option for peritonitis in patients on peritoneal dialysis, showing that a low dosage of ceftazidime and avibactam is sufficient to treat the infection. The study's findings could help gain control over peritonitis in patients with difficult-to-treat germs.
A recent study has shown that the mutual symbiosis between bacteria and fungi can be fragile, as a specific protein maintains the balance. When this protein is absent, the bacteria are trapped within fungal hyphae and die.
A recent study found that Kenyan patients who spend more than three days in hospitals are more likely to harbor antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The research team identified three risk factors associated with colonization, including hospitalization for extended periods and intubation.
A new study reveals that pathogenic bacteria fuel their growth by consuming sialic acid, a key component of the protective intestinal mucus layer. The findings suggest a potential treatment target for intestinal bacterial infections and chronic diseases linked to gut bacteria, including IBD and celiac disease.
A study published in Frontiers in Microbiology found that administering vaginal suppositories with Lactobacillus crispatus can restore a healthy balance of vaginal microbiota and prevent recurrent cystitis. The researchers discovered that postmenopausal women with RC had significantly different bacterial communities compared to those w...
A recent study confirmed which genes in the HiVir cluster are essential and which contribute partially to the disease. The toxin produced by Pantoea ananatis has broad-spectrum activity, potentially targeting conserved functions within plants.
Researchers discovered high levels of antibiotic resistance among war-wounded patients in Ukrainian hospitals, with nearly 10% resistant to colistin. The study highlights the challenges posed by resistant bacteria in times of war, particularly the highly resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria.
Researchers at HKUMed have developed a novel microneedle patch that uses ultrasound-responsive antibacterial nanoparticles to effectively treat skin infections caused by P. acnes bacteria. The treatment promotes pain-free delivery and facilitates skin repair, offering a non-antibiotic approach for acne and other skin conditions.
Researchers discovered how two new compounds attack TB-causing bacteria, providing insights into future therapies. The study found that one compound binds better to ATP synthase than existing treatment, while another targets a previously unknown site.
The updated guidance emphasizes the importance of antimicrobial stewardship to reduce MRSA infection rates. It also recommends surveillance for asymptomatic carriers and decolonization for those colonized with MRSA. Effective hand hygiene and cleaning practices remain crucial in preventing MRSA transmission.
Researchers found that an iron-rich diet can prevent deadly symptoms in mice during active infection, while a functional adaptive immune system is required for immunity against future infections. The study paves the way for the development of new vaccines that could promote immunity for those with diarrheal diseases.
A new device using dielectrophoresis selectively isolates Mycobacterium tuberculosis from sputum samples, providing a purified sample for molecular confirmation. The technology has shown promising results in detecting TB in underserved areas, with high concordance rates compared to culture diagnosis.
Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered that Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses a 'division-of-labor' strategy to colonize surfaces and spread through the body. This dual strategy allows the bacteria to increase its surface colonization success and resist antibiotic treatments.
Scientists have discovered that dimethylfumarate can block blood clotting during infection, potentially treating life-threatening DIC and severe COVID-19. The mechanism involves blocking interferon production, which promotes tissue factor releases.
Researchers discovered the K1 capsule dates back approximately 500 years and is found in 25% of current E. coli strains responsible for blood infections. Targeting this capsule can make bacteria vulnerable to the human immune system, offering a potential treatment option without antibiotics.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have discovered a gene that drives the switch between chronic and acute P. aeruginosa infections. The gene encodes a small RNA called SicX, which plays a vital role in bacterial respiration under low oxygen conditions.
A statewide pay-for-performance intervention based on Choosing Wisely reduced rates of inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions for acute respiratory tract infections from 43% to 25%. This reduction occurred without measurable harms at safety-net hospitals serving disadvantaged patients.
A global observational study found high mortality among infants with culture-positive sepsis, highlighting the need for effective antibiotics. The study developed tools to identify at-risk newborns and inform WHO guidelines on treatment.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo identified a protein in Amblyomma ticks essential to their survival while feeding, making it a promising target for developing a vaccine. The study found that silencing gene expression of an inhibitor of apoptosis protein reduced bacterial proliferation and made ticks more resistant to infection.
Researchers investigated how gut bacteria respond to repeated antibiotic disruptions, finding that they evolve antibiotic-resistant variants and adapt through slowing of cell growth. The study reveals the complex response of the microbiome to antibiotics, including ecological effects and induction of prophages.
SMART researchers have discovered a novel combination therapy using rifaximin and clarithromycin to treat antibiotic-resistant Mycobacterium abscessus infections. The study found that rifaximin potentiates clarithromycin against M. abscessus, increasing its sensitivity and effectiveness in killing the bacteria.
A new study reveals that previously unknown antibiotic resistance genes are widespread in bacteria across various environments, including the human microbiome. The findings suggest that these genes can pose a significant threat to human health, highlighting the need for enhanced understanding of their development and spread.
A global analysis of national action plans to tackle antimicrobial resistance reveals a significant gap in preparedness. The study found that many countries lack adequate funding and monitoring mechanisms, hindering effective implementation of policies.
Researchers at the University of Zurich have developed a new class of antibiotics that target novel targets in bacterial metabolism, effectively fighting resistant bacteria. The peptides are highly effective, safe, and immune to resistance, offering hope for treating bacterial infections in patients.
Researchers at the University of Florida have identified plant-produced compounds that could help manage lethal bronzing, a deadly disease spread by a small insect. These green leaf volatiles, released by healthy palms near infected trees, can activate defense mechanisms to potentially stave off the pest.
A breakthrough surveillance tool has been developed to detect elevated risks of Buruli ulcer outbreaks in Victoria, utilizing possum 'poo' analysis. The tool reveals significant spatial correlation between clusters of Mycobacterium ulcerans positive possum excreta and human Buruli ulcer cases.
Pharmaceutical scientists from the National University of Singapore have developed multi-functional synthetic peptide nanonets for relieving inflammation caused by bacterial infection. These nanonets trap bacterial endotoxins and pro-inflammatory cytokines, achieving anti-inflammatory activity through selective binding.
Researchers developed a new method combining palmitoleic acid, gentamicin, and non-invasive ultrasound to improve drug delivery in chronic wounds infected with S. aureus. The strategy reduced bacterial burden by 94% and successfully sterilized wounds in diabetic mice.
A neglected 80-year-old antibiotic, nourseothricin, has been found to be effective against multi-drug resistant bacterial infections. The improvement in purification of the streptothricins has overcome original toxicity concerns, making it a promising agent for treating difficult-to-treat infections.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have found an effective treatment for multi-drug resistant bacteria, a major concern in the fight against superbugs. The newly discovered antibiotic, streptothricin, has shown potency against several drug-resistant strains of bacteria and may deserve further exploration as a potential...
A thin cellulose film coating can inactivate the SARS-CoV-2 virus within minutes and inhibit bacterial growth. The coating's porous nature accelerates evaporation of liquid droplets, introducing an imbalanced osmotic pressure that disrupts viral structure.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have captured the structure of a commonly used phage, filamentous phages, which will enable the development of new biotechnology applications. The new insights gained from this research will help improve phage display and other uses in drug discovery.
Researchers have discovered a compound that can combat multidrug-resistant bacteria within one hour, including the ESKAPE group of pathogens. The compound, Pln149-PEP20, is a synthetic peptide inspired by molecules secreted by Lactobacillus plantarum and has been found to be highly active against MDR bacteria.
Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry found that microplastics decrease bacteriophages' infectivity due to leachates and polymer size. The study highlights the impact of microplastics on aquatic ecosystems, affecting both animals and humans.
A study of 14,400 febrile infants found that SARS-CoV-2 infection reduces the prevalence of urinary tract infections, bacteremia, and bacterial meningitis, particularly among infants aged 29 to 60 days. These findings suggest alternative management strategies for certain febrile infants testing positive for SARS-CoV-2.
A new study suggests that allowing bedside nurses to independently order C. difficile testing can significantly reduce the time to receive test results, potentially decreasing clinical and economic burdens of CDI infections. The policy change also showed a decrease in patient infections and hospital economic costs.
A patient in Cleveland was diagnosed with a corneal ulcer caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a drug-resistant bacterium that's rarely found in eye infections. The contaminated eye drops were identified as the source of infection, and treatment required strong antibiotics to prevent vision loss.
Interactions between gut bacteria may limit antibiotics' effectiveness in treating C. difficile infections, a study suggests. Researchers found that certain bacterial species make the bacterium tolerant to metronidazole and increase its abundance.
A study by UMC Utrecht shows that corona patients can measure their blood oxygen levels at home using a pulse oximeter, feeling safe and experiencing more control. This method does not increase GP visits or hospitalization but contributes to relieving caregivers and keeping healthcare affordable.
Researchers have engineered a new CRISPR-based drug candidate targeting E. coli directly while preserving the microbiome. The innovative treatment has shown promise in reducing E. coli burden in mice and is now in phase 1 clinical trials to treat blood cancer patients and prevent deadly infections.
A study published in The Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific found that carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) contaminated the entire ICU, with samples detected on bed units, ventilators, and equipment. The researchers highlight the urgent need for targeted infection prevention and control measures to stem the global...
A UNIGE team has developed small beads encapsulating fecal bacteria for treating a serious intestinal infection. The technology overcomes obstacles in current treatments, allowing for easier and more comfortable administration.
Researchers at Nova Southeastern University have made breakthroughs in understanding the complex relationship between beneficial and harmful bacteria. By studying how these bacteria communicate and work together, they hope to develop new treatments for infections, such as those caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
A new study by UCL researchers hints at the possibility of detecting conditions such as coeliac disease and Parkinson's disease in principle up to 10 years before diagnosis. The review of existing evidence indicates a 'diagnostic window' – the point at which diagnosis may be possible for some patients.