Articles tagged with Toxins
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Researchers have characterized the Bacillus thuringiensis Cry4B toxin as highly toxic against Anopheles gambiae, a principal vector of malaria. The study demonstrates that Cry4B can kill even Permethrin-resistant mosquito larvae, providing an environmentally safe approach to controlling malaria.
Researchers propose keystone molecules as a key factor in structuring ecosystems. These molecules have powerful effects on bacteria, seabirds, fishes, and other species. Keystone molecules also influence predator-prey relationships and can be crucial for conservation efforts.
Researchers used Botox to discover a novel role for SNARE molecules in nerve cell signaling, linking fusion and retrieval processes. The findings have broad implications for understanding neuronal communication and diseases, including epilepsy and schizophrenia.
Researchers developed a method to deliver tumor-killing enzymes using protein packages that protect the enzyme until it reaches the cell's interior. The addition of ubiquitin enhanced the enzyme's persistence and potency without hindering its delivery, also reducing toxicity to non-tumor tissues.
Researchers from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and NOAA's ECOHAB program have developed a testing protocol that allows fishermen to safely harvest surf clams and ocean quahogs on Georges Bank. The shellfish industry can now produce up to 1 million bushels of product annually, valued at $10-15 million.
Lindsey Michelle Brier, a University of Houston math sciences major, has been awarded the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship for her research in pharmaceutical chemistry. She plans to pursue a Ph.D. in medicinal chemistry and teach at the university level.
A new study by University of Arizona entomologists reveals that the pyramid strategy for genetically modified crops may not be as durable as previously assumed. The research found that critical assumptions underlying the strategy do not always apply, and that some degree of cross-resistance between toxins can reduce its effectiveness.
Researchers discovered that certain lactobacillus bacteria can dampen the production of toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 in the vagina. This finding has implications for understanding and treating vaginal infections, emphasizing the need for improved diagnostic tools and probiotic management strategies.
Assistant Professor Hyeok Choi's research aims to develop a sensor system that can detect biological toxins wirelessly, providing real-time data for early warning systems. The system will be deployed in areas with high concentrations of harmful algal blooms, enabling water providers to take action.
A new study finds that bacteria in the large intestine can deconjugate masked mycotoxins, releasing toxic forms of deoxynivalenol and zearalenone. The findings suggest that these toxins should be considered when evaluating population exposure.
NIH researchers discovered a critical transport system in Staphylococcus aureus that produces deadly toxins, paving the way for new antibiotic treatments. The system, called Pmt, is thought to play a similar role in other staphylococci, such as S. epidermidis.
Exposure to environmental toxins can cause chronic health problems like respiratory, endocrine, reproductive, and neuropsychiatric disorders in children. Unique risk factors include their small size, developmental stage, and habit of putting things in their mouths.
Researchers at USC's Keck School of Medicine found that liver mitochondria in mice improve and increase after chronic alcohol feeding, suggesting a possible mechanism for liver damage. The study's findings could help pinpoint targets for therapy if observed in human mitochondria.
A study published in Environmental Health found that family members and preschool children are at high risk for exposure to toxic compounds such as arsenic, pesticides, and acrylamide. The researchers suggest dietary modifications can mitigate risk, including eating organic produce and limiting consumption of animal meat and fats.
Sourav Saha's research in the Journal of the American Chemical Society has led to the development of a compound that can strip electrons from toxic fluoride, producing tangible benefits for toxin detection and removal. This innovation has far-reaching potential applications in various fields, including the creation of new plastics and ...
A new X-ray study reveals that persister cells are regulated by toxins produced by the bacteria themselves, allowing them to enter a dormant state. This understanding can lead to the development of treatments that block toxin function and production, potentially improving outcomes in life-threatening diseases.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed novel antivirulence drugs that block toxin production in bacteria, rendering them harmless. The discovery has the potential to combat antibiotic-resistant infections like MRSA and strep.
Researchers have identified genes that can be used to select low-cadmium accumulating crop varieties, offering a potential solution to reducing toxic levels in food. By understanding the mechanisms of Cd uptake in plants, scientists aim to develop targeted breeding strategies for crops like rice, wheat, and potatoes.
Microcystins are present in every Canadian lake, posing health risks to humans and wildlife. The study found that water quality is most at risk in lakes with high microcystin concentrations, which are linked to low nitrogen-to-phosphorus ratios.
A study by Cornell University researchers found that same molecular changes confer resistance in multiple insect species across four orders, suggesting a high level of evolutionary repeatability
The Lancet article highlights the complex mix of medical issues among Paralympic athletes, including injuries from prosthetic technologies and performance enhancement practices. The authors emphasize the need for increased awareness, training, and research to address these challenges and ensure proper healthcare provision.
A study published in Neurology found that botulinum toxin injections significantly improved tremor severity and writing/drawing abilities in people with multiple sclerosis. The treatment also showed promise in reducing muscle weakness after treatment.
A new study reveals that southern resident killer whales in the Pacific Northwest are more stressed when there is a scarcity of Chinook salmon to eat. Hormone levels show that the whales thrive when they arrive in the Salish Sea in late spring and have access to Fraser River Chinook, which helps them build up their fat reserves.
Researchers developed a screening tool to predict microcystin levels in lakes prone to blue-green algal blooms. The tool uses phycocyanin measurements and water transparency to provide a quick and affordable assessment of the toxin's presence.
To slow resistance of western corn rootworm beetles to genetically protected crops, much larger 'refuge' acreages of conventional crops have to be planted, two experts warn. Increasing refuge requirements can delay pest resistance and sustain the benefits of Bt corn.
Researchers at the University of Alberta found that omega-3 fatty acid DHA in fish prevented toxic buildup in the retina, a common cause of age-related vision loss. The discovery could lead to a therapeutic use for supplementing the diet with DHA.
The US government would benefit from investing more in eliminating socio-environmental risk factors than developing medicines for childhood disabilities. The study cites $76 billion annual disease cost and recommends creating healthy cities like Vancouver to prevent chronic diseases.
A study by the American Society of Nephrology found that hemodiafiltration, a technique to remove additional toxins during dialysis, does not improve patient survival or heart health. However, intense treatments may provide some benefits, particularly for patients who receive higher doses of treatment.
A review of previous studies found that Botox injections are associated with a small to modest benefit for patients with chronic migraine and chronic daily headaches, but not for episodic migraines or tension-type headaches. The treatment was linked to improved frequency of chronic conditions, such as headache reduction from 19.5 to 17.2.
Researchers have developed a method to destroy cancer cells using the death cap mushroom's α-amanitin toxin without harming healthy cells. The toxin is linked to an antibody that targets a protein on cancer cells, inhibiting tumor growth and causing regression in mice.
A new study by the University of Leicester has demonstrated that botulinum toxin is an effective treatment for overactive bladder, providing relief from symptoms such as urinary incontinence and urgency. The study found that 4 in 10 women became completely continent again after six weeks and a third remained continent after six months.
Researchers found that variation in the level of expression of a gene called CMG2 affects the success of the anthrax toxin in gaining entry into human cells. The study highlights the importance of host genetics in determining individual susceptibility to pathogens like anthrax, HIV, and malaria.
Scientists have discovered that stimulating brain hormones may help prevent a deadly second wave of death in patients with pneumonia. The research found that an agonist mimics the action of growth hormone-releasing hormone, which protects the air sacs and capillaries from fluid and cell damage.
A new company formed around Michigan State University nanotechnology aims to detect deadly pathogens and toxins with handheld biosensors. The technology utilizes novel nanoparticles developed by MSU professor Evangelyn Alocilja, enabling rapid detection in the field without significant training.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have discovered that manganese completely protects against Shiga toxicosis in animal models. The findings suggest that manganese could be a promising treatment for neutralizing the effects of Shiga toxin in humans, offering an affordable solution to this deadly infection.
Researchers discovered a biological pathway that increases the level of chemokine SDF-1, which stimulates cells to move and migrate. The study found that higher levels of this protein can predict who is most likely to develop HUS, allowing for closer monitoring.
Researchers at the University of Calgary have isolated biofilms that can detoxify tailings water by removing toxins and metals. These microorganisms are highly tolerant to stress associated with pollutants, making them a promising solution for cleaning oilsands-related water.
A toxin produced by Mycoplasma pneumoniae has been found to initiate and intensify asthma and other allergic airway diseases in humans, animals, and patients. The discovery is supported by a $11.5 million grant and provides new insights into the role of chronic infectious states in lung disease.
Researchers at Purdue University and USDA develop method to test toxins on Hessian fly larvae, finding potential solution to failing genetic resistance in wheat. They discovered that snowdrop lectin disrupts digestive function in Hessian flies, slowing their development.
Scientists re-engineered botulism toxins to target non-nerve cells, blocking inflammation-linked protein release. This could expand treatment options for chronic inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and asthma, reducing risks associated with nerve cell disruption.
An international team of scientists discovered how a bacterial pathogen kills cells by preventing protein synthesis, paving the way for novel therapies to combat melioidosis. The study, led by the University of Sheffield, used intense X-rays to solve the structure of a protein from Burkholderia pseudomallei.
Scientists have created a fast and reliable test to detect ciguatoxin, the primary cause of ciguatera food poisoning. The new test uses standard laboratory instruments and has been proven effective in identifying 16 different forms of the toxin in fish from the Pacific Ocean.
A Virginia Tech research team has created a microelectromechanical system to detect trace amounts of toxins in breath on the parts per billion scale. The study aims to monitor patient exhaled breath to identify and quantify environmental exposure risks, providing valuable data for limiting harmful contaminant exposure.
Researchers have identified a toxin called SElX released by MRSA that triggers an extreme immune response. By targeting this toxin, it may be possible to prevent severe infections and high fever associated with MRSA.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have created an anti-fouling coating that prevents barnacles from forming colonies, using macrocyclic lactones to shut down their growth. The coating is environmentally friendly and can fully replace copper-based coatings in use on boats.
A team of researchers led by Professor Rikard Blunck has discovered the molecular mechanism behind toxin proteins engineered into food to kill insects. The study uses a novel technique involving fluorescent light to analyze the protein's structure and behavior in artificial cell membranes.
Researchers identify a molecular process by which human cells can neutralize toxins released by Clostridium difficile, offering a promising new treatment for intestinal disease. The discovery could also be applied to other bacterial diseases and has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of hospital-acquired infections.
Researchers have identified a key mechanism used by intestinal cells to defend against Clostridium difficile infections. A previously unknown protective response, known as nitrosylation, can be exploited to prevent toxin-induced cell damage.
A new University of Utah study reveals that woodrats that eat a variety of toxic plants can limit their toxin intake more effectively than those that specialize in one plant. By increasing time between meals, reducing meal size, and drinking more water, generalist woodrats regulate their toxin exposure.
Researchers discovered that many proteins are required for maximum toxicity of ricin and PE, with differing requirements at multiple levels. Understanding toxin trafficking may lead to designing treatments targeting these toxins and potential synergistic therapies.
A group of scientists reviewed nine trials involving 503 participants and found no evidence that Botulinum toxin injections reduce chronic neck pain. The study suggests that further research is needed to clarify whether the dose can be optimized for neck pain.
Researchers identified a rare O104:H4 strain that combined Shiga toxin-producing ability with enteroaggregative E. coli adherence, explaining its high virulence and unusually severe HUS cases. The strain also showed extended-spectrum ß-lactamase resistance, making it resistant to penicillins but susceptible to carbapenems.
A randomized, double-blind study compared the efficacy of botulinum toxin type A (onabotulinumtoxinA) and B (abobotulinumtoxinA) in reducing crow's feet wrinkles. AbobotulinumtoxinA was found to produce a greater effect when participants contracted their muscles, but no significant difference was seen at rest. The study suggests that a...
A potent toxin, ciguatoxin, has been discovered in Hawaiian monk seals, posing a significant threat to their dwindling population. The toxin accumulates in fish consumed by humans and causes acute gastrointestinal and neurological illness.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Physiology found that prenatal exposure to thirdhand smoke can have as serious or even more negative impacts on an infant's lung development than postnatal or childhood exposure. Pregnant women should take precautions to avoid homes and places where thirdhand smoke is likely to be found.
A recent study published in Current Biology reveals that the taste of something extremely bitter can cause nausea and stomach churning, regardless of whether it's swallowed. The researchers found that the body anticipates toxins or anti-nutrients and prepares for them by responding with nausea and stomach contractions.
A new study from Monell Center reveals that bitter taste can cause people to report nausea and display stomach activity similar to actual nausea. The body anticipates the consequences of food we eat, responding to toxic tastes with a protective mechanism.
Researchers have discovered a unique antibody from llamas that can interfere with the toxins produced by Clostridium difficile, a health problem affecting hundreds of thousands of patients worldwide. This discovery promises to provide a much-needed alternative treatment option for this increasing healthcare problem.
Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine found that a protein called MEF2D plays a key role inside mitochondria in brain cells, and its impairment is linked to Parkinson's disease progression. The study suggests that problems with MEF2D could represent one of the earliest steps in neurodegeneration.
Scientists have developed a key advance toward a fast, simple test to detect the toxin that causes cholera. The new method uses specially prepared nanoparticles coated with dextran to bind to specific characteristics of the cholera toxin receptor, allowing for easy detection.