Pigments that can do more
Researchers have elucidated the molecular composition of a pigment produced by anaerobic bacteria, revealing its role in cellulose degradation. The pigment shows mild antibiotic activity against Gram-positive bacteria.
Anaerobic Bacteria
Articles tagged with Anaerobic Bacteria
Pandora’s microbes – The battle for iron in the lungs
Researchers identified two natural products, pandorabactin A and B, produced by Pandoraea bacteria to complex iron. These molecules may play a role in the survival of these pathogens in iron-poor environments.
Sulfur bacteria team up to break down organic substances in the seabed
Researchers discovered that sulfur bacteria from the Desulfobacteraceae family work together like a team to break down diverse organic compounds. By analyzing six strains, they found similar molecular strategies and a highly energy-efficient central metabolism pathway, enabling them to thrive in oxygen-free environments.
Novel bacteria parasitizing archaea
Researchers at Hokkaido University have successfully cultivated an ultrasmall bacterial strain that parasitizes methanogenic archaea, inhibiting their growth. This discovery represents the first successful cultivation of such bacteria and proposes a new phylum Minisyncoccota, advancing our understanding of microbial ecology.
Synthetic biology reveals the secrets of life without oxygen
Anaerobic bacteria have survived for ages in oxygen-free niches, influencing human health and environment. The 'AnoxyGen' project aims to unlock their biosynthetic potential using molecular and synthetic biology tools.
Bacteria detected in tattoo and permanent makeup inks
Researchers have detected anaerobic and aerobic bacteria in commercial tattoo and permanent makeup inks, indicating a potential source of human infections. The study found that around 35% of tattoo or permanent makeup inks sold in the US were contaminated with bacteria, highlighting the importance of monitoring these products.
Commonly used antibiotic brings more complications, death in the sickest patients
A new study found that treatment with piperacillin/tazobactam increased 90-day mortality by 5% compared to cefepime. The antibiotic depletes the gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in metabolism, immunity, and preventing infections.
Marine bacteria team up to produce a vital vitamin
Researchers discovered that two species of marine bacteria work together to produce vitamin B12, essential for metabolism and survival of many marine organisms. The bacteria release building blocks into the water, which are then combined to form the vitamin through a complex process involving viral infection.
Oral bacteria accelerate pancreatic cancer development in mice: research reveals key findings
Research reveals a significant connection between oral bacteria and accelerated pancreatic cancer development in mice. Viable Porphyromonas gingivalis was found in the pancreas of healthy mice after gum application, causing changes in the organ's microbial balance.
When it comes to bad breath, some bacterial interactions really stink
Researchers from Osaka University discovered that a specific bacterial interaction causes the production of methyl mercaptan, a major contributor to bad breath. The interaction between Streptococcus gordonii and Fusobacterium nucleatum leads to increased methyl mercaptan production, which is driven by methionine metabolism.
The surprisingly resourceful ways bacteria thrive in the human gut
Research reveals bacteria in human gut use diverse enzymes to generate energy from organic compounds, producing metabolites with implications for human health. The study identifies 22 alternative metabolites used by three families of gut bacteria, showcasing their remarkable adaptability.
Novel C. diff structures are required for infection, offer new therapeutic targets
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center discovered iron storage 'spheres' inside C. diff bacteria, which are crucial for infection and offer new targets for antibacterial drugs. The study, published in Nature, also reveals that bacteria may compartmentalize biochemical processes in a way similar to eukaryotic cells.
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.
IUPUI Geology professor researches groundbreaking bacterial discovery
A team of researchers led by Dr. William Gilhooly III found that viruses are infecting sulfur bacteria, altering their genetic code and influencing their behavior in oxygen-deficient lakes. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding the impact of viral infections on bacterial ecosystems.
Unlocking the power of photosynthesis for clean energy production
University of Rochester researchers create a groundbreaking system mimicking photosynthesis using bacteria and nanomaterials to produce clean-burning hydrogen fuel. The innovative approach replaces fossil fuels in the process, offering an environmentally friendly alternative.
Dancing in the mud: Cut cable puts an end to bacterial party
Researchers at Aarhus University discovered that cable bacteria form a dance-like connection with diverse aerobic bacteria in the anoxic seabed. The small bacteria benefit by transferring electrons to the cable bacteria, forming an electrical lifeline to oxygen.
Gut bacteria are crucial for liver repair
A study by researchers at TUM found that gut bacteria play a crucial role in liver regeneration. The microbiome produces short-chain fatty acids, which are essential for liver cell growth and division. In mice treated with antibiotics, liver regeneration was delayed or not possible, but a
Anti-anaerobic antibiotics associated with increased risk of mortality in critically ill patients
A new study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that early treatment with anti-anaerobic antibiotics can deplete gut anaerobes and lead to worse clinical outcomes. The research suggests that these 'good bugs' protect against pneumonia, organ failure, and mortality.
Novel sewage treatment system removes up to 70% of nitrogen that would otherwise be discarded into nature
Researchers have designed a new anaerobic reactor using polyurethane foam, reducing nitrogen removal costs in Brazil. The system achieves high nitrogen removal efficiency by creating an environment that optimizes denitrification.
Engineers turning refuse into resources in $3.5 million DOE project with NREL
Colorado State University researchers have developed a system that creates renewable energy while diverting waste from landfills, producing valuable products like sustainable aviation fuel and cleaning solvents. The ReSOURCE system can offset the carbon dioxide equivalent of 6.2 million cars a year.
A step toward “living biotherapeutics”
The coating protects bacteria during the freeze-drying and manufacturing process, allowing them to be used therapeutically. The researchers tested the coating on a strain of E. coli and another species that aids in digestion of plant starches.
Chemical-free cleaning of bioreactor membranes
A team of scientists at KAUST has developed a novel approach for cleaning biofouled membranes in anaerobic bioreactors, combining UV irradiation with bacteriophages to eliminate bacteria. The method improved upon individual treatments and was proven effective over four cleaning cycles.
A globally important microbial process hidden on marine particles
Researchers demonstrate that microbial fixation of nitrogen can occur on marine snow particles, leading to low oxygen concentrations and enabling anaerobic N2 fixation. The study's model shows the depth distribution of N2 fixation in the marine water column, highlighting the importance of particle size, density, and sinking speed.
In search of the first bacterium
Researchers used biochemical metabolic networks and evolutionary trees to analyze 1,089 bacterial genomes, predicting the biochemistry of LBCA. The analysis reveals that LBCA was likely rod-shaped and had the acetyl-CoA pathway for carbon fixation, similar to LUCA.
Electric cable bacteria breathe oxygen with unheard efficiency
Researchers discovered that a few cells in cable bacteria consume oxygen at extremely high rates, while the rest process food and grow without oxygen. This unique adaptation allows them to focus on food production while minimizing oxygen stress.
Magnetic bacteria as micropumps
Scientists have discovered a way to control the flow of liquids using magnetotactic bacteria, which can be used to transport cancer drugs directly to tumors. The bacteria produce an effect similar to that of a micropump, allowing for precise control over the movement of active substances.
Gut bacteria could be responsible for side effect of Parkinson's drug
Research by Sahar El Aidy and her team from the University of Groningen found that gut bacteria can deaminate levodopa, a main treatment for Parkinson's disease, into DHPPA, reducing gut motility. This metabolite may worsen constipation in patients with Parkinson's disease.
Metal-breathing bacteria could transform electronics, biosensors, and more
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered a bacterium that produces materials with potential applications in electronics, electrochemical energy storage and drug-delivery devices. The study found that Shewanella oneidensis can create novel materials like molybdenum disulfide, which can transfer electrons easily.
Large population study links blood infection with certain bacteria to increased risk of colorectal cancer
A large population study found a significant association between blood infections with anaerobic bacteria and an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. The study revealed that infections with specific bacteria, such as Clostridium septicum and Bacteroides ovatus, were linked to a substantial increased risk of CRC.
A novel L-fucose metabolic pathway from strictly anaerobic and pathogenic bacteria
Researchers identified a novel L-fucose metabolic pathway in Veillonella ratti, which encodes enzymes for a previously unknown non-phosphorylating L-fucose pathway. The study also discovered another L-2-keto-3-deoxyfuconate aldolase involved in the same pathway in Campylobacter jejuni.
Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin induces claudin-4 to activate YAP in oral squamous cell
Researchers found that Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin induces CLDN4 nuclear translocation, enhancing epithelial-mesenchymal transition, stemness, and invasive ability in oral squamous cell carcinoma cells. The complex of YAP1, CLDN4, and zona occludens-2 was formed by CPE treatment, suppressing YAP1 phosphorylation and activating it.
Could dark carbon be hiding the true scale of ocean 'dead zones'?
A new study suggests that dark carbon fixation could be contributing to the growth of ocean 'dead zones', where oxygen is scarce. This means that existing models may underestimate the impact of climate change on these regions, leading to severe ecological and economic consequences.
From a plant sugar to toxic hydrogen sulfide
Researchers discovered a novel bacterial degradation pathway for sulfoquinovose, which produces hydrogen sulfide in the absence of oxygen. The study's findings suggest that organosulfonate substrates from vegetarian diets can also be degraded to hydrogen sulfide.
Motley crews of bacteria cleanse water at huge oceanic Georgia Aquarium exhibit
Researchers found diverse bacterial communities in the aquarium's water that break down waste and nitrates with varying efficiency. The study suggests that mixed bacterial communities may work more efficiently than single-star players, providing a backup option for optimal performance.
Could bacteria fuel the future?
Researchers at the University of Delaware will study clostridium bacteria for biofuel production, aiming to create sustainable energy from renewable resources. The project seeks to demonstrate that using multiple complementary microorganisms can improve process yields and create valuable chemicals.
'Spacesuits' protect microbes destined to live in space
Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed protective suits for bacteria that allow them to thrive in environments without oxygen. The hybrid system mimics photosynthesis and captures carbon dioxide, producing various chemical compounds that can be used by industry or in space colonies.
Nitrite's got to be cruel to be kind
Researchers at Umeå University discovered that Vibrio cholerae uses nitrate respiration to control its population expansion and survival, even in the absence of oxygen. This smart metabolic mechanism allows the bacterium to thrive in the intestine's low-oxygen environment.
Bacteria activate their own killer
Researchers have developed a novel photothermal treatment that leverages the self-activation of certain bacteria to target and kill antibiotic-resistant pathogens. The innovative approach uses a supramolecular radical anion complex that absorbs near-infrared light, generating heat and denaturing proteins in targeted bacteria.
The vitamin ergothioneine: an antioxidant for oxygen-free areas?
Anaerobic bacteria can produce vitamin ergothioneine in oxygen-free environments, challenging the previously oxygen-dependent theory. This discovery suggests that ergothioneine may have played a crucial role in early Earth's life forms.
Conducting shell for bacteria
Scientists have successfully coated live bacteria with a conducting polymer to improve their conductivity, resulting in a 23 times smaller resistance and a fivefold increase in electricity generation. This coating scheme has the potential to revolutionize microbial fuel cell technology and wastewater treatment.
New gonorrhea treatment targets enzyme needed for respiration
Researchers at Oregon State University have identified a new therapy target for gonorrhea, an enzyme crucial for bacterial respiration in biofilms. A peptide that inhibits this enzyme's activity shows promise in killing the bacteria without promoting resistance.
Regular dental visits may help prevent pneumonia, study shows
Research shows that people who receive regular dental check-ups have a lower risk of pneumonia than those who don't. Good oral hygiene can limit the quantities of bacteria present, reducing the risk of pneumonia.
Wound-healing intestinal bacteria: Like shrubs after a forest fire
A study published in Nature Microbiology found that Akkermansia muciniphila and other anaerobic bacteria temporarily bloom in response to injury, contributing to wound healing. The researchers suggest exploiting these microbes as treatments for inflammatory bowel disease.
Exquisite ancient horse fossil preserves uterus with unborn foal
A 47 million-year-old horse fossil in Germany preserves the uterus and an unborn foal, revealing that early horses had a similar reproductive system to modern horses. The discovery provides valuable insights into the evolution of equine reproduction.
New insights into why adolescents carry meningitis-causing bacteria
University of York scientists have discovered a novel metabolic pathway in Neisseria meningitidis that explains why this age group is particularly at risk of infection. The bacteria can supplement its growth via metabolism of propionic acid, generated by anaerobic bacteria becoming more prevalent in adolescents.
Study finds cervicovaginal microbiota differs in women to have preterm birth
Researchers found distinct cervical and vaginal microbiota patterns in women destined for preterm birth compared to those with term births. The study revealed significant differences in microbial communities, particularly lower levels of non-CST III bacteria, weeks before the actual preterm birth.
Scientific breakthrough reveals how vitamin B12 is made
Researchers at the University of Kent have successfully identified the anaerobic pathway for producing vitamin B12 in bacteria. This discovery paves the way for increased production of the essential nutrient, which is used to treat pernicious anemia and other conditions.
Circumcision alters penis microbiome, could explain HIV protection
A study found that circumcision significantly alters the penis microbiome, with a reduced bacterial load and fewer anaerobic bacteria. This change may explain why circumcision offers protection against HIV and other viral infections.
American Society for Microbiology honors Caroline S. Harwood
Harwood's discovery of the genes and enzymes involved in lignin degradation has major implications for environmental pollution and carbon cycling. Her work on light-driven nitrogenase processes also holds promise for sustainable energy production.
Circumcision associated with significant changes in bacteria
A study published by The Translational Genomics Research Institute found that circumcision significantly alters the bacterial communities of the penis, reducing anaerobic bacteria and increasing aerobic bacteria. This change may contribute to lower HIV risk and protection against bacterial vaginosis in women.
What can we do for prevention and therapy of anaerobe-associated infections?
Researchers studied SIPMP phenotypes of faecal anaerobic isolates from patients with diarrhea, finding 80-92.86% positivity rates for certain bacteria species, suggesting a potential link between anaerobe infections and antimicrobial peptide production.
Two bacteria better than one in cellulose-fed fuel cell
A team of Penn State researchers successfully created a microbial fuel cell that consumes cellulose and produces electricity by pairing two types of bacteria. The fuel cell achieves a maximum power density of 150 milliwatts per square meter, which is lower than current designs but shows promise for future improvements.
Bacterium could treat PCBs without the need for dredging
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have identified a bacterium that can dechlorinate polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in situ, eliminating the need for dredging. The Dehalococcoides bacteria thrive on PCBs, replacing chlorines with hydrogen to initiate degradation.
Efficacy of once-daily Avelox for complicated abdominal infections highlighted at ICAAC
The efficacy of AVELOX in treating complicated intra-abdominal infections was highlighted at ICAAC. The study showed that once-daily AVELOX monotherapy was as effective as combination therapy, with overall clinical cure rates of 80.9% and comparable duration of therapy.
Researchers are studying photodynamic therapy
Researchers investigated anaerobic and facultative anaerobic bacteria in a study on photodynamic therapy. The photosensitizers were able to completely suppress the anaerobic key pathogens, but facultative anaerobic bacteria tested responded less effectively to PDT.
Researchers find unusual protein in bacterium
Scientists have identified an unusual protein in anaerobic bacteria that senses oxygen and causes the bacteria to swim away from it. The protein could lead to the development of new antibiotics and provide insight into the evolution of life.
Bacteria That Disable Sperm
Researchers have discovered that certain bacteria can prevent sperm from swimming well enough to reach an egg, affecting fertility. Infertile men with asymptomatic infections may benefit from broad-spectrum antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria before attempting IVF.
Crossing Bacterial/Archaeal Boundaries
A study has found that methylotrophic bacteria and methanogenic archaea share common central carbon metabolism pathways involving C1 transfer reactions. These findings have implications for understanding the evolutionary history of these pathways in all organisms.