Articles tagged with Toxins
Researchers have discovered a new toxin-antitoxin system that allows bacteria to slow down their activity and thrive during periods of scarcity. The HEPN/MNT system, the most abundant TA system in prokaryotes, enables bacteria to conserve energy and resources by inhibiting toxin production.
Researchers at UC San Diego found that weaker E.coli strains outcompete stronger ones in a microbial game of rock-paper-scissors, challenging the traditional notion that strength prevails. The study's findings have implications for understanding microbiome imbalances and potentially developing new life-saving treatments.
A new study finds that roly polies and other terrestrial bugs are transferring high levels of mercury to steelhead trout, a threatened species in coastal California. The research confirms earlier findings that mercury can accumulate in the top of the food chain in coastal ecosystems.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University have discovered a new end-to-end cyber-biological attack that can trick scientists into generating dangerous toxins in their labs. The attack uses malware to interfere with biological processes within the victim's lab, exploiting weaknesses in biosecurity screening protocols and cybersecurity controls.
A multi-institution team identified the genetic mechanisms enabling the production of Victorin, a deadly toxin causing Victoria blight in oats. The study discovered that Victorin genes are scattered across repetitive regions in the pathogen genome, expanding the potential for small molecule discovery.
A chemist from RUDN University synthesized analogs of two natural toxins, antofine and septicine, using a universal approach. The new method involves just two steps, the four-component Ugi reaction and cyclization reaction, and can produce compounds with antibacterial, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory properties.
African crested rats sequester plant toxins for chemical defense and form small family units, suggesting a monogamous lifestyle. The study provides insights into their social behavior and conservation implications.
Researchers at WHOI will contribute to improving the nation's collective response to harmful algal blooms (HABs) through $2.5 million in funding over the coming year. The projects aim to enhance monitoring and determine socioeconomic impacts of blooms nationwide, with a focus on protecting human health, ecosystems, and local economies.
Researchers at UNSW Science discovered a new molecular pathway that controls Shiga toxin production in E. coli, which could lead to the development of drugs suppressing toxin production during infections. The study's findings provide a potential breakthrough for treating severe E. coli infections.
A new tool, WellExplorer, provides information on potential exposure to hydraulic fracturing chemicals in drinking water. The app allows users to view the closest fracking sites, learn about used chemicals and their toxicity levels.
Cerebral palsy affects children's gross motor skills and muscles, leading to stiffening and weakness. Rehabilitation interventions improve quality of life for individuals with CP, including botulinum toxin injections and robot-assisted gait training.
Researchers at Durham University have found a new toxin, called MenT, produced by the TB bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This toxin inhibits the use of amino acids needed for protein production, causing the bacteria to die. The discovery opens up new avenues for treating tuberculosis and other infections.
A team of scientists, including Kathryn Coyne from the University of Delaware, have developed protocols for studying the genetic underpinnings of marine algae. By analyzing the genetics of a specific species of algae that produces harmful blooms, they were able to create genetically modified strains and identify genes involved in toxin...
Researchers discovered that Nissle, a harmless E. coli strain, can protect intestinal tissue against pathogenic strains like enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC). The probiotic was found to decline rapidly in the tissue while allowing it to withstand damage better.
Nieng Yan's research program aims to solve the structure of ion channels and membrane transporters using cryo-EM. Her lab has produced valuable rewards, including structures of proteins involved in diseases such as Niemann-Pick disease type C.
Researchers found evidence that there are significantly fewer of the single-celled algae that produce harmful toxins in an area more than 45 feet around an eelgrass bed. Eelgrass wards off toxin-producing algae, providing a natural defense for marine species and shellfish harvests.
A study analyzed 156 workers' sitting behavior, revealing that switching postures tends to occur later in the workday. Participants were more likely to stand if active in recent hours, but switching was not associated with physical fitness levels.
New research suggests Botox can provide promising pain relief and functional improvements for conditions such as plantar fasciopathy, tennis elbow, and knee osteoarthritis. Studies show reduced pain and improved function after BoNT-A injections, with effects lasting several months.
A world-first therapeutic for treating sleep apnea and weak muscle conditions will be showcased at Bio Digital. Developed by RMIT University, the patented technology uses modified tetanus toxin molecules to effectively tone muscles, offering a promising alternative to cumbersome airway pressure machines.
Researchers at the University of Bern have discovered how Clostridium perfringens causes fatal intestinal bleeding in piglets. The toxin attaches to CD31, a key molecule on endothelial cells, leading to cell death and damage to blood vessels.
Researchers have identified specific compounds from the Brazilian peppertree that reduce the virulence of antibiotic-resistant staph bacteria. The triterpenoid acids block the ability of bacteria to produce toxins, allowing the immune system to heal wounds more effectively.
A study published at Digestive Disease Week found that nearly 83% of 9/11 first responders had fatty liver disease, compared to 24-45% in the general population. The research highlights the link between toxin exposure and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease among first responders.
Researchers recreated DNA damage caused by tobacco smoke in laboratory-grown human bladder tissues. The study found that while direct DNA damage from smoke toxins is unlikely to cause bladder cancer, they may accelerate other DNA-damaging events.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital developed a new version of botox B with improved binding to nerves, leading to more effective paralysis, longer-lasting results, and reduced systemic toxicity. The enhanced toxin showed higher therapeutic efficacy and better safety range in a mouse model.
Researchers have introduced a novel total synthesis method for tetrodotoxin, a strong nerve toxin with potential as a pain reliever for cancer treatment. The new route enables easy and reliable production of the compound.
Researchers have identified a crucial role for the typhoid toxin protein in delivering toxins to host immune cells and disrupting their function. The study's findings suggest that targeting specific sugars on immune cells could prevent the bacteria from entering and infecting them, paving the way for new treatment options.
Researchers discovered a species group of snakes in western China and Japan changed their primary diet from frogs to earthworms and firefly larvae, gaining access to the same toxic compounds. This marks the first documented case of an vertebrate predator adapting to an invertebrate prey for defense.
A simple portable test can detect deadly mushroom toxins in minutes, aiding doctors in diagnosing amatoxin poisoning. The test's sensitivity allows for detection of the toxin in urine, potentially improving patient outcomes and increasing safe mushroom foraging.
Researchers found microcystin concentrations in 95% of participants' nasal passages, with higher levels among occupationally exposed individuals. Aerosolized cyanotoxins represent a significant route of exposure and should be included in risk assessments.
Researchers at UC San Diego created transgenic fruit flies to study the effects of CDTa toxin on host cells, revealing a collapse of networks essential for nutrient absorption. The fly model mimics symptoms in human C. difficile-infected patients, offering a potential avenue for novel therapies.
Researchers at the Technical University of Berlin introduce a new method to synthesize α-amanitin, a highly selective inhibitor of RNA polymerase II. This synthetic route allows for large-scale production and could lead to cancer treatment advancements.
Researchers develop animal-free antitoxin to block diphtheria toxin, reducing animal suffering and increasing safety. PETA-funded project uses human blood cells to create effective treatment with no risk of allergic reactions.
Scientists combined advanced molecular imaging techniques to characterize and understand how Clostridium difficile toxins work, providing a new target for effective treatment of the most dangerous strains. The study's findings will guide the design of drugs targeting C. difficile infections.
Researchers have identified the structure of a lethal toxin produced by C. difficile bacteria, paving the way for new drugs to neutralize it. The finding uses cryo electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography to map out delivery and binding components of the toxin.
New studies reveal a link between natural foodborne toxins and vaccine resistance, as well as increased risk of cancers, cardiovascular and neurological illnesses. Aflatoxin and lead contamination pose significant threats to public health worldwide.
A Portland State University study found that vape additives, particularly terpenes, can form more toxins than the main psychoactive chemical THC when inhaled. The researchers discovered that vendors were adding up to 30% more terpenes to their products, which can impact flavor and smell but also pose health risks.
A study suggests that immunity-related genes from ancient times may be protecting humans today against modern pollutants like cigarette smoke and diesel fumes. Researchers found that certain genes, such as AHR, have been beneficial in responding to airborne toxins for thousands of years.
Researchers tested an Automated Wearable Artificial Kidney (AWAK) device for effective toxin removal in patients with kidney failure. The study found no serious adverse events, improving portability and flexibility of treatment.
Scientists have discovered that human gut bacteria require a unique genetic code to thrive, which is different from person to person. The study found that immunity genes from one bacterium are often shared by others, suggesting a complex and adaptive immune system in the gut.
Researchers discovered that Shiga toxin subtype 2a enhances E. coli O157 colonization and facilitates effective cattle-to-cattle transmission. This finding highlights the importance of understanding Shiga toxin activity and its role in animal reservoirs to reduce human health threats.
Researchers used CRISPR technology to study the genetic changes that allow monarch butterflies to survive toxic milkweed by editing genes into laboratory fruit flies. This breakthrough reveals a key adaptation in the evolution of these iconic insects.
Researchers genetically engineered fruit flies to mimic the monarch butterfly's ability to eat milkweed without dying. The flies store toxins in their bodies and retain them through metamorphosis, making animals that eat them likely to vomit.
Researchers discovered a novel weapon in bacteria arsenal that mimics common antibiotics, potentially filling gap left by antibiotic resistance. The 'toxic arrowhead' VgrG2b targets cell envelope and prevents division, causing cells to bulge and explode.
Researchers found that microcystin can significantly amplify non-alcoholic fatty liver disease even at low levels. The toxin was processed differently in the kidneys of mice with pre-existing liver disease, suggesting a need for special preventative guidelines.
Researchers found that exposure to BMAA, a toxin produced by algae, can alter the structure of protein SOD1, leading to neurodegenerative disease ALS. The study suggests that studying patterns of SOD1 modifications may aid in developing lifestyle and preventative interventions for sporadic ALS.
Scientists have discovered how the typhoid toxin hijacks DNA repair machines and accelerates cellular aging, making cells more susceptible to infection. This breakthrough could lead to earlier diagnosis and faster treatment for typhoid sufferers, a major killer in low- and middle-income countries.
A new vaccine candidate has been developed to treat and prevent toxic shock caused by invasive streptococcal disease. The 'J8' vaccine candidate has shown a 1000-1,000,000 fold reduction of bacterial burden in treated mice.
Research by Ohio State University found that low-income and African-American communities continue to face disproportionate levels of air pollution, exacerbating existing health disparities. The study's findings suggest that efforts to control pollution are not effectively addressing these inequities.
Researchers have discovered a key toxin in the Legionella bacteria that enables its growth and infection in human cells. The toxin, SidJ, targets innate immune pathways and has a kinase fold, making it an attractive target for therapeutic intervention.
A new study by researchers from the University of California, Irvine has shed light on the weaknesses of TcdB, a toxin primarily responsible for devastating Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). The study provides a blueprint for the development of next-generation vaccines and therapeutics with enhanced potency and broad-reactivity.
A small study suggests that treating pelvic floor muscle spasm with botulinum toxin may relieve pain and improve quality of life in women with endometriosis. The treatment showed long-lasting benefits, with many patients reporting pain relief lasting at least six months.
Researchers at Stanford University discovered a new form of cell communication, where individual cells coordinate their ultrafast contractions to release paralyzing toxins in sync. The phenomenon was found to occur through hydrodynamic flows, allowing cells to sense and respond to their environment.
Researchers discovered a new species of bacteria living inside algae that produces toxic compounds for the sea slug's defense. The three-way symbiotic relationship allows the slug to obtain food and defensive chemicals while the algae benefits from chemical production and the bacteria receive a home and nutrients.
A new study reveals a frog protein that can detect and neutralize a poisonous compound produced by red tides and other harmful algal blooms. The protein, saxiphilin, acts as a 'toxin sponge' that sops up and sequesters the deadly microbial poison.
New guidelines recommend nucleic-acid amplification tests (NAAT) for diagnosing Clostridioides difficile infection. NAAT testing practices are considered the most effective, with a recommended algorithm combining GDH/TOXIN/NAAT tests.
Scientists at the University of Toledo discovered that rice husks can remove microcystin, a toxin released by harmful algal blooms, with up to 95% efficiency. The treatment uses organic rice husks treated with hydrochloric acid and heated to 250 degrees Celsius.
A recent study discovered amyloid plaques in the brains of stranded dolphins in Florida and Massachusetts, similar to those found in humans with Alzheimer's disease. The presence of these plaques, along with an environmental toxin produced by cyanobacterial blooms, highlights the potential risks of toxic exposures in marine environments.
A machine learning approach using high-quality animal model data sheds new light on the biology of the liver and kidneys after toxin exposure, revealing nine distinct patterns of response to chemical exposure that may be broadly relevant to studies of human disease. The analysis highlights defense mechanisms and novel biomarkers, provi...
Researchers at Binghamton University discovered how a Gram-negative bacterium delivers toxins that make us sick. The study found that the communication molecule inserts itself into the membrane to physically stimulate vesicle production, which contains highly concentrated toxins.
Researchers have identified a toxin in Mycobacterium tuberculosis that kills the bacteria if not neutralized by an antidote protein. This 'suicide' mechanism can be harnessed for therapeutic purposes to combat tuberculosis, which is a major cause of death worldwide.