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Whale shark health relies on habitat, diet – and the right mix of microbes

A new study has revealed that the health of whale sharks depends on a balance of microbes in their skin, which is crucial for their well-being and survival. The research, published in Scientific Reports, used genomic sequencing technology to describe the types of microbes on the skin surface of 74 whale sharks from around the world.

SourceFlinders University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateAug 22, 2023

Important step toward next-generation probiotics

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed a new strategy for producing oxygen-tolerant probiotics, including Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, which can improve glucose control. The combination of bacteria increased biomass and butyrate production, making it safe for human consumption.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2023

Identifying the gut bacteria that threaten neonatal babies

A recent study has identified the specific gut bacteria that pose a threat to neonatal babies, particularly those with necrotising enterocolitis. Researchers analyzed genomic similarities in Clostridium perfringens and found a set of strains with lower disease-causing capacity, lacking genes responsible for toxin production.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 25, 2023

Avoiding a global chocolate disaster – how tracing and recalls avoided a worldwide Salmonella outbreak

A European-wide recall of Kinder Chocolate products, including eggs, prevented thousands of extra cases of Salmonella Typhimurium. The recall, triggered by intensive collaboration between public health experts, food safety agencies, and regular surveillance, saved lives and reduced the risk of devastating global outbreak.

Scientists create computer simulation based on digital microbes

Researchers at University of Galway have created a digital microbe database, AGORA2, which enables computer simulations of how drug treatments work and how patients respond. The resource offers personalized predictions of differences in metabolism between individuals for diseases such as Parkinson’s and colorectal cancer.

SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 20, 2023

Deep meditation may alter gut microbes for better health

A study found that Tibetan Buddhist monks with long-term deep meditation practice had distinct gut microbiome profiles, associated with lower risks of anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular disease. Their gut microbiota was enriched with beneficial bacteria that may influence mental health.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGeneral Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJan 16, 2023

Fungi in sink drains act as ‘reservoirs for mould’

Research from the University of Reading found that sinks and P-traps harbor a surprising number of fungal organisms, including black moulds and relatives of baker's yeast. The study showed that these microorganisms can tolerate high temperatures, low pH, and low nutrients, making them a potential risk to health in certain environments.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalEnvironmental DNA·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

New study finds American dog tick populations expanding into Colorado, and identifies Rocky Mountain wood ticks in 5 more counties than documented by CDC

A new study finds American dog tick populations expanding into Colorado and identifies Rocky Mountain wood ticks in 5 more counties than previously documented by the CDC. The study leverages citizen science data, revealing a critical need for increased tick surveillance and preventative measures against ticks.

SourceBay Area Lyme Foundation·JournalTicks and Tick-borne Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 25, 2022

Paris will host the 9th Annual Meeting of the International Society of Microbiota dedicated to microbiota and microbiotal medicine: Where we are now and what’s next?

The event will cover various topics including microbiota dysbiosis, oral and vaginal microbiota, and their impact on diseases like depression, cancer, and respiratory infections. The meeting aims to accelerate Microbiota medicine applications through strategic discussions.

How bacteria defuse hypothiocyanite, an antimicrobial weapon of the innate immune system

Researchers discovered a novel role for an E. coli enzyme in reducing the toxic effects of hypothiocyanite, a key antimicrobial released by the human immune system. This finding has implications for diseases like cystic fibrosis and inflammatory bowel disease, as it suggests that various bacteria can evade this powerful oxidant.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2022

A closer look into the emergence of antibiotic resistance in bioaerosols and its monitoring

Researchers explore the emergence of antibiotic resistance genes in bioaerosols, including sources and detection strategies. The study highlights the need for monitoring and understanding the relationship between human, animal, and environmental microbiomes to counter the spread of AR.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalReviews in Environmental Science and Bio/Technology·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 30, 2022

Researchers propose new method for large-scale data integration and biomarker identification

A team of researchers has developed a new algorithm to efficiently integrate large-scale microbiome data and identify disease-associated biomarkers. The NetMoss algorithm uses microbial interaction networks to remove batch effects and quantify topological differences, revealing biomarkers linked to multiple diseases.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Computational Science·DateJun 6, 2022

Humans pass on gut microbes to wildlife living in cities

A recent study published in eLife found that wildlife living in urban environments have picked up some gut bugs from humans, leading to a 'humanization' of their microbiota. The researchers analyzed gut microbiomes in distantly related vertebrates from urban and rural areas and discovered significant differences between the two.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateMay 31, 2022