Articles tagged with Bacteria
Researchers use cryo-electron microscopy to reveal the 3D structure of Mfa pili in P. gingivalis, understanding its role in attaching to host tissues and other microbes. This information can aid in developing therapeutic strategies to block attachment and infection.
Researchers at UT Health San Antonio found a link between the bacterium Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and systemic lupus erythematosus. Supplementation with this bacteria reduced markers of the disease in animal models, showing promise for treatment.
Researchers have discovered a previously unknown mechanism by which microbes boost plants' ability to survive in salty conditions. Pseudomonad bacteria stimulate the production of lignin, a tough substance found in plant cell walls, helping plants withstand environmental stress.
Researchers identified five immunomodulatory proteins in Borrelia recurrentis that prevent activation of the human complement system, allowing the pathogen to survive in the human body. These Chi proteins also convert plasminogen into active plasmin, giving Borrelia recurrentis a significant advantage in spreading after infection.
Researchers found that biogas slurry enhances soil fertility and increases active carbon levels by up to 13.4% compared to conventional chemical fertilizer topdressing. The treatment also promotes cooperative microbial interactions, supporting nutrient cycling and climate change mitigation.
A new study reveals that IS110 elements use two RNA-guided pathways to insert donor DNA into target sites, challenging the classical 'cut-out-paste-in' model. The researchers identified a figure-eight DNA intermediate in one pathway and a direct-transfer pathway without forming a conventional intermediate.
A European research team is developing bacteria that can produce important chemical base materials from sustainable methanol, aiming to replace fossil resources in the chemical industry. The goal is to make chemical production more sustainable without jeopardizing food security.
A study published in PLOS One analyzed microbial communities in well-preserved and degraded bones from medieval cemeteries in Norway. The researchers found distinct microbial communities associated with different levels of degradation, suggesting that microbes play a role in bone preservation and decay.
Researchers have discovered how wall teichoic acids control bacterial growth, providing insights into the nature of Earth's earliest life forms. The study reveals that eliminating these acids rapidly arrests cell wall synthesis and activates enzymes that promote rod-shaped growth.
Scientists have identified three British cheeses with beneficial bacteria that could aid human health. The cheeses contain probiotics, anti-inflammatory compounds, and dietary fibers, making them a potential vehicle for delivery of beneficial gut bacteria.
A PolyU research team discovered that low concentrations of bacterial toxins in urban air can trigger nearly 20% of inflammatory responses, while drug-resistant fungi may spread through everyday breathing or skin contact. The study highlights the need to identify and control these highly toxic trace components to effectively reduce hea...
A new strategy has created 'living plastics' that self-destruct on command, using activatable microbes to break down material within a week. The breakthrough could lead to the development of triggerable spores in water to tackle plastic pollution.
A new portable device can deliver accurate test results for tuberculosis (TB) in less than half an hour, matching lab accuracy. The MiniDock MTB uses similar technology to COVID-19 tests and detects DNA of mycobacterium tuberculosis, enabling rapid diagnosis and treatment
Researchers at UIC developed an anti-cancer therapy using a bacterial protein called aurB, which prevents energy production in tumor cells' mitochondria. The treatment was tested in combination with radiation and showed highly effective results in animal models of prostate cancer, effectively shutting down tumor growth.
Researchers have developed a universal toolkit for editing bacterial DNA in 15 diverse species, including human pathogens and fast-growing biotechnology organisms. The technology uses retrons, an immune system that produces DNA, to efficiently modify genes, with varying success rates across different species.
Scientists have mapped the structure of Vibrio bacteria with unprecedented detail, revealing a new target for treatment. The findings could provide a solution to life-threatening infections linked to antibiotic resistance.
A team of scientists at the Hackensack Meridian Center for Discovery and Innovation (CDI) has made a significant breakthrough in treating deadly non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections. They have developed new compounds, including rifamycin candidates, which show promise in treating M. abscessus and other rapidly growing NTMs.
Researchers at DTU discover three types of lactic acid bacteria that can effectively produce plant-based yoghurt alternatives, inhibiting harmful bacteria and breaking down sugars. The bacteria also improve the product's texture and extend shelf life.
Researchers have developed a new tool called Microbial Interaction and Niche Determination (MIND) that accurately predicts how microbes compete within complex communities. By analyzing nutrient preferences and energy allocation, MIND helps beneficial organisms outcompete dangerous pathogens. This approach has the potential to accelerat...
A multidisciplinary research team has discovered a novel antimicrobial material with impressive potency against various fungal and bacterial pathogens. The sulfur-rich polymer material overcomes previous limitations and shows promise as a low-cost, effective medicine and agrichemical solution.
Researchers identify specific chemicals that trigger neural activity in nematodes when they detect certain bacteria, leading to changes in feeding behavior and avoiding harmful pathogens. The study sheds light on fundamental mechanisms of how neurons interact with bacteria, paving the way for potential therapeutic interventions.
Researchers at ISTA report that Anabaena develops a cytoskeleton to control cell shape, transforming an ancient DNA segregation system. This evolutionary shift enables the bacteria to sculpt their cells without relying on traditional spindle-like structures.
Researchers found two strategies used by bacteria to colonize new habitats: acquiring new traits and reducing genome size. This study sheds light on the evolutionary biology of soil microbes, revealing unexpected results about their adaptation to freshwater environments.
Researchers identify previously unknown microbe living in close partnership with another organism inside stromatolites, providing insights into how complex life began. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of eukaryotes and the emergence of mitochondria.
Researchers have discovered that native soil bacteria can degrade persistent pollutants like dioxins without genetic engineering. Using decoy molecules, the bacteria's natural enzymes are tricked into breaking down these toxic compounds.
Researchers at ISTA's Materiali Molli Lab used E. coli bacteria to create an active bath that propelled sticky colloids into gel-like aggregates, rotating clockwise due to the bacteria's twisting motion. The study revealed that hydrodynamic interaction plays a key role in driving motion through the counter-rotation of body and flagella.
Researchers have designed a system that releases algaecide steadily over weeks or months, making it less expensive and more efficient than existing options. The buoys removed nearly all cyanobacteria without the need for frequent reapplication.
Researchers have discovered how a disease-causing bacterium uses a single protein to interfere with the body's defenses in multiple ways, offering a clearer picture of how infections take hold at the cellular level. This discovery highlights the importance of targeting specific interactions between bacterial proteins and human cells in...
Researchers at Adelaide University have discovered a new gut–brain signalling pathway that governs how parasitic infections lead to nausea, appetite loss and other sickness symptoms. The study shows two specialised gut cell types work together to sense parasites and activate protective responses through the vagus nerve.
Researchers at Rice University developed a safe bioelectronic sensor using naturally occurring polymer chitosan to effectively communicate with bacteria. The system uses a hydrogel to trap bacteria near an electrode, generating a stable electronic current when exposed to target substances.
Researchers have identified and resolved molecular bottlenecks to produce doxorubicin, a vital chemotherapy agent, resulting in a 180% increase in production. This breakthrough enables cost-effective manufacturing of essential antibiotics and anti-cancer agents, promising a cleaner and more reliable supply of life-saving medicines.
A large E. coli outbreak in Calgary daycare centers resulted in 285 children becoming infected, with daily laboratory monitoring and treating dehydration preventing complications and potentially saving lives. The study found that this approach reduced the number of children who developed life-threatening hemolytic uremic syndrome.
A new study discovered that a multifaceted infection prevention and control intervention successfully disrupted a large and long-running bacterial outbreak of Klebsiella pneumoniae in a Zambian neonatal intensive care unit. The study found that low-cost measures, including IPC training, enhanced cleaning, and hand hygiene, reduced neon...
Research shows that bacteria harbor resistance genes may respond differently to antibiotics under non-standard conditions. This affects treatment efficacy and contributes to understanding antimicrobial resistance development and spread. Understanding these variations is crucial to combat global public health threats.
A new study finds hitchhiking bacteria dissolve essential ballast in ubiquitous
A study by MIT researchers found that nitrous oxide can hamper the growth of certain soil bacteria dependent on vitamin B12 for methionine biosynthesis. The findings suggest that N2O production in agricultural settings could influence microbial communities, potentially impacting crop health.
A new monoclonal antibody neutralizes the toxin pyocyanin produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, reducing cellular damage and increasing survival of immune cells. This approach has the potential to reduce antibiotic use and minimize infection progression without promoting antibiotic resistance.
Researchers discovered a mechanism that enables bacterial pathogens to assemble antibiotic-resistant 3D biofilms, which protect them from antibiotics and the immune system. The team found that adhesive pili form flat sheets linking bacteria together and shield them from hostile environments.
Emerging microbially-powered technologies can convert up to 35% of wastewater's chemical energy into electricity and extract valuable nutrients. This approach could power agriculture, global sanitation and its own treatment, while reducing pollution and overcoming regulatory obstacles.
Researchers explore how METs convert organic waste into electricity, fuels, fertilizers, and usable water. Pilot deployments demonstrate its potential to reclaim energy from 359 billion cubic meters of wastewater annually.
A novel, self-regenerating 'bacteria-mineral' biohybrid system was developed to utilize light like a solar cell for uranium pollution purification. The system enhances the purification efficiency of uranium pollution through the use of metabolic activity of bacteria to grow ferrous sulfide nanoparticles.
Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark have identified a new virus in a common gut bacterium that appears more frequently in patients with colorectal cancer. The study demonstrates a statistical association between the virus and colorectal cancer, but its role is still unclear.
Researchers have identified three previously unknown genotypes of Helicobacter bacteria in pygmy sperm whales stranded along the southeastern US coast. The discovery raises new questions about microbial pathogens on ocean health and their impact on vulnerable species.
A novel vaccination approach cleared harmful gut bacterium Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) in an animal model of infection. The experimental vaccine protected against illness, death, tissue damage and infection recurrence through mucosal immunization.
Researchers discovered a 5,000-year-old bacterial strain in an underground ice cave that shows resistance to multiple modern antibiotics. The Psychrobacter SC65A.3 strain has over 100 resistance-related genes and can inhibit the growth of several major antibiotic-resistant superbugs.
Researchers identified 11 genetic regions influencing gut bacteria and roles they play, including connections to gluten intolerance, haemorrhoids, and cardiovascular diseases. The study analyzed genetic data from over 28,000 individuals, providing insights into the complex relationship between genes and gut microbiome.
Researchers have engineered Listeria bacteria to stimulate the body's innate immune system and eliminate cancer cells. The therapy, which boosts gamma delta T cells, shows promise in treating children with leukemia and preventing graft-versus-host disease.
Researchers at Kyoto University have directly captured intermediate structural states of the Na⁺-NQR enzyme using cryo-electron microscopy and molecular dynamics simulations. The study reveals that redox reactions drive sodium ion transport by changing the enzyme's structure, allowing ions to pass through the bacterial cell membrane.
Researchers have identified optimal conditions for bacterial growth on hydrogels, finding that firmer, lower water content materials consistently slow bacterial expansion. The study's findings also reveal a selective mechanism at work, where negatively charged gels repel bacteria harbouring negatively charged groups.
University of California San Diego scientists have solved how the circadian clocks within microscopic bacteria precisely control gene expression during the 24-hour cycle. The researchers identified six proteins needed to rebuild this clock, generating a simplified cyanobacterial system with a clock that only needs.
A Dartmouth study found that plasmids can form tight clusters within bacterial communities, making them resistant to antibiotics and clinical treatments. This phenomenon introduces a new avenue for bacterial infections to become more difficult to treat.
New research reveals microalgae play a hidden role in spreading antibiotic resistance genes in natural water environments. The study highlights how microalgae create microenvironments that foster the growth and transmission of these genes, often found in bacteria.
Researchers developed a novel nanoparticle system to cross the BBB, target infection sites, and release antibacterial agents locally. This strategy effectively disrupts biofilms, eliminates drug-resistant bacteria, and reduces neuroinflammation.
The vaginal microbiota is influenced by competition for specific nutritional resources, affecting health outcomes. A resource-based model identified key ecological mechanisms underlying microbiota composition and potential bacterial vaginosis interventions.
Researchers identify thousands of rapidly evolving receptor-binding proteins, revealing how bacteria can be engineered to deliver proteins into specific human cells. The study provides insights into the evolutionary creativity of bacterial machines and their potential biomedical applications.
Researchers have engineered gut bacteria that dim their fluorescent glow in the presence of illness, allowing for early detection of gut conditions. The developed biosensor can provide continuous monitoring through stool samples and pick up subtle changes in gut health before symptoms develop.
Researchers at Kobe University have identified a specific bacterial strain, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Corynebacterium tuberculostearicum, as the primary causes of foot odor in Nagashima-type palmoplantar keratosis. Topical application of benzoyl peroxide reduces odor by decreasing C. tuberculostearicum levels.
A Texas A&M research team identified the Brucella abortus species causing illness in animals in Cameroon, with over 1 million cattle and goats potentially infected. The study highlights the importance of targeted disease control, improved diagnostics, and regional surveillance to safeguard animal and human health.