Articles tagged with Bacterial Biofilms
Researchers at Yale University have discovered a way to activate nature's electrical grid using a short electric field shock. This innovation could lead to the creation of self-healing electronics from living cells, utilizing the unique properties of bacterial nanowires.
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.
Juvenile crown-of-thorns starfish exhibit flexible diets, consuming a range of algae types and even biofilm to avoid starvation. This adaptability complicates age prediction and outbreak forecasting for the species, which poses a significant threat to coral reefs.
Scientists identified strong links between ecosystem groups leading to biomagnification of PFAS compounds in the river's aquatic food chain. The study found that PFAS accumulation occurs at each step of the food chain, including in humans who consume contaminated fish.
The study reveals a rotund organization of concentric layers of different bacteria in a corona-like structure, with Streptococcus mutans at the center. This structure creates an acidic microenvironment that causes enamel dissolution and the onset of caries.
Scientists have discovered that Thermus thermophilus can produce two types of type IV pili: one specialized for movement and the other for genetic exchange. This finding could lead to the development of new antimicrobial drugs targeting specific mechanisms.
Researchers discovered that bacterial cells stimulated with light remembered exposure hours later, laying groundwork for memory-capable biological systems. The study reveals surprising similarities between low-level bacteria and complex neuronal processing.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have created a dual-action coating that repels and kills bacteria, reducing the risk of cross-contamination in fresh produce. The coating, made from silica and lysozyme, retains its germicidal action longer due to its water-repelling property.
The study reveals that microbial biofilms on the tongue have a complex spatial organization, with key bacterial genera such as Actinomyces, Rothia, and Streptococcus. The images show patchy community structure, with consorcia dominated by single taxa, and suggest a model for how these communities are generated.
Marine bacteria colonize microplastics, using them as artificial reefs, while some diatoms exhibit a preference for specific plastic types. Microplastics may serve as vehicles for toxic organisms, affecting marine life.
Researchers created a biocompatible material by engineering E. coli to overproduce an enzyme that makes extremely long polymer brushes. These bristles are virtually impenetrable to bacteria, hindering the spread of biofilms and potentially improving medical applications.
Researchers at UC San Diego have discovered a bacterial immune system that works by abortive infection, where the infected cell self-destructs. This new system could be employed to improve treatment of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections through phage therapy.
Researchers at SMART and NTU have designed a polymer that can kill bacteria resistant to commonly used antibiotics, including MRSA. The breakthrough could lead to the development of medicine to which bacteria are significantly less resistant, saving hundreds of thousands of lives.
The Marine Biological Laboratory team has used innovative microscopy to reveal the structure of microbial communities coating microplastic samples from various ocean sites. These biofilms can influence the microplastics' fate and interact with other organisms, posing a threat to marine survival.
A new study at the University of Copenhagen reveals that bacteria prioritize cooperation over competition, leading to stronger and more resilient communities. This discovery challenges Darwin's theory of evolution and has significant implications for biotechnology and disease treatment.
Researchers have applied a novel method to model bacterial colony growth, replicating fractal patterns observed in nature. The study used agent-based modeling to simulate the behavior of bacteria, varying parameters such as cell division speed and mechanical forces.
Researchers developed a method to immobilize nanoparticles in living bacterial biofilms, enabling scalable and tunable catalysis. The approach utilizes engineered amyloid monomers to anchor functional nano-scale catalysts, demonstrating efficient degradation of pollutants and organic dyes.
Researchers have discovered complex social behaviors in kombucha microbes, which could provide clues for understanding cooperation in human societies. By studying the interactions between different species in kombucha, scientists hope to develop new antimicrobial products and interventions for bettering human health.
Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München use computer simulations to study the invasion of epithelial cells and bacterial biofilms into confined microspaces. They discover three distinct modes of invasion based on the level of motile activity, which can lead to clusters of cells detaching and 'worming' through narrow gaps.
The University of Edinburgh's space mining devices will be tested in orbit to study how microscopic organisms can recover minerals from space rocks. The experiment aims to develop ways to source essential materials for survival in space.
Scientists have developed a new method to detect signs of early life in ancient rock formations by analyzing high concentrations of potassium. This approach is promising as it could help identify the presence of microorganisms in sedimentary rocks dating back 2.1 billion years.
Researchers describe violacein's mechanism of action against bacteria, including its ability to kill drug-resistant pathogens and disrupt membrane organization. The study's findings suggest violacein's potential as a target for future antimicrobial research.
A new study identifies a particular bacterial genus, Brevibacterium, and its genetic pathways that likely govern histamine degradation. The research suggests harnessing strains that break down histamine to reduce allergy-like reactions in people who are susceptible to histamine reactions when consuming ripened cheese.
A new model microbiome community, THOR, has been developed by researchers to improve human health and soil productivity. The community of bacteria produced complex traits such as biofilms, which could lead to the development of new antibiotics and improved crop yields.
A team of researchers isolated a peptide named emericellipsin A from soil fungi, which possesses antitumor and antibacterial properties. The substance was proved to be effective against various types of bacteria and fungi, including those resistant to other antibiotics.
Scientists at Linköping University create a new type of living electrode by embedding Shewanella oneidensis bacteria into conducting polymers, resulting in a significant increase in electron flow and current output. The technology has potential applications in environmental sensors and bioelectronics.
Researchers from ITMO University developed nanocontainers that can translate light signals into metabolic changes in bacteria, opening a new way to control bacterial growth. The containers are made of titanium dioxide nanoparticles coated with silver and polymers, and can be used for controlled drug delivery.
Researchers attach molecular attachment r8 to conventional antibiotics, helping them penetrate bacterial outer defenses and linger, increasing effectiveness against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The approach demonstrates potential for treating other drugs and infections with existing modifications.
A study reveals that bacteria associated with a carrion-eating beetle help slow carcass decomposition and support the growth of beetle larvae. The beetles' microbial flora facilitate the preservation of carcasses by outcompeting microbes associated with decomposition.
Researchers at U of T Engineering propose a simple and effective way to minimize food contamination by trapping cooking oil in microscopic scrapes and cracks. The method results in a 1,000x reduction in bacterial levels, making it a safer alternative to harsh chemicals and disinfectants.
A recent study has identified novel bacteria in the human mouth using metagenomic analysis, which were not detectable by traditional methods. The research team successfully cultivated these 'microbial dark matter' organisms, known as Saccharibacteria, and found them to be abundant in human saliva samples.
Researchers developed a film coating to prevent bacterial growth on dental retainers and aligners. The coated plastic showed improved durability and reduced bacterial growth by 75%, offering a potential solution for maintaining oral hygiene.
Research at Oregon State University found that silver nanoparticles can inhibit beneficial bacteria in wastewater treatment plants, leading to excessive nutrient levels and eutrophication. The study suggests that short-term exposure studies may underestimate the potential toxicity of long-term, low-concentration exposure situations.
Researchers found that bacteria in Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonies produce dual signal responses to antibiotic tobramycin, including a localized and community-wide response. This communication may enable the bacteria to develop tolerance to some antibiotics.
The University of Texas at Arlington has developed a modular, multi-step water treatment system that can transform unconventional oil and gas waste into reusable water. The system requires multiple treatment modalities to remove contaminants, making it difficult to accomplish effectively and economically.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have discovered that a layer of vertical graphene flakes can form a protective surface that kills bacteria, preventing infections and eliminating the need for antibiotic treatment. The graphene flakes are sharp enough to slice apart bacteria without harming human cells.
Researchers discovered that when live bacteria are spun at high speeds, they aggregate and form a dense disk, but when the spinning stops, the disk collapses due to imperfections on its surface. The resulting rapid movement of bacteria away from their origin of rotation creates an explosion-like effect.
A team of University of Illinois engineers has developed a model to understand how bacteria multiply in plumbing systems. The model uses samples collected from taps before and after stagnation and combines them with city biofilm data and building blueprints, allowing for the assessment of drinking-water quality.
In an evolutionary competition, bacteria and ciliates develop attack and defense mechanisms, with defense coming at a high cost for reproduction, reducing intraspecific diversity.
A team of ETH researchers created a novel 3D printing platform that utilizes living matter to produce mini biochemical factories with various properties. The platform uses bacteria-containing ink to create objects with specific characteristics, such as biodegradable materials and sensors for toxic substances.
Researchers have discovered a novel way to detoxify salty wastewater using bacteria that can generate electricity, producing hydrogen gas. The bacteria, found in deep-water brine pools, thrive in extreme conditions and have the potential to convert waste products into valuable chemical products.
Caries-causing bacteria survive in dental plaque thanks to EPS' calcium integration, which neutralizes toxins and strengthens the biofilm. This process inhibits enamel remineralization, contributing to caries development.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed filters that use nanoparticles to prevent biofilm buildup, increasing efficiency and lifespan. The new membranes block bacteria- and virus-sized contaminants without letting them stick.
Researchers found that patients with Crohn's disease have higher levels of fungus Candida tropicalis compared to healthy family members. Antifungals and probiotics could help restore balance to the microbiome, reducing inflammation.
Researchers from VIB lab discovered functional amyloids formed by bacteria with dedicated biological functions, differing from toxic pathological amyloids. They developed a novel microscopy method to study real-time growth and regulatory characteristics of these fibers.
Researchers have proposed a universal mechanism for the 'sense of smell' in bacteria, involving two-component systems and molecular machines. The study revealed how proteins transmit signals through cell membranes, potentially leading to new antibiotics and treatments for biofilms.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison study reveals that certain amoebas called dictyostelids can penetrate biofilms and devour bacteria, including multi-drug resistant species. This finding has potential applications in combating antibiotic-resistant infections, such as bacterial keratitis and fire blight.
Researchers found that bacteria face with limited nutrients will enter an elegant timesharing strategy, alternating feeding periods to reduce competition. The study reveals that structured communities of bacteria use electrical signals to coordinate behaviors and optimize resource utilization.
The UBC-developed system uses a combination of fibre membranes and beneficial bacteria to remove contaminants from non-potable water. This innovative approach aims to provide an efficient and low-maintenance solution for communities with limited access to clean drinking water.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered non-antibiotic antivirulence compounds that prevent disease-causing toxins from forming in gram-positive bacteria. These compounds, such as F19, have shown effectiveness against various types of superbugs and may enable the use of existing antibiotics in combination therapy.
Researchers at the University of Exeter found that antibiotics can boost bacterial reproduction in E.coli, leading to increased resistance and faster mutation rates. The study discovered that mutated bacteria reproduced faster than before encountering antibiotics and formed populations three times larger due to mutations.
Researchers discovered that Staph bacteria use the nitric oxide synthase enzyme to colonize nasal passages, allowing them to thrive in low-oxygen environments. This mechanism may contribute to the virulence and resistance of staphylococcus bacteria, making it a potential target for prevention strategies.
Researchers discovered that midwater crustaceans have transparent bodies and optical coatings on their legs and bodies that reduce reflections by up to 250-fold. The coatings appear to be made of living bacteria, with each species having its own symbiotic optical bacteria. This discovery has potential technological applications.
Researchers are developing potent quorum sensing inhibitors using ligand and structure-based screening to combat antibiotic resistance-induced bacterial virulence. Key findings include the potential of synthetic AHL analogs, farnesol, and furanones as biofilm matrix inhibitors.
Air plasma technology has been shown to effectively kill bacteria and biofilms on the surfaces of perishable fruits, significantly extending their shelf life. The reactive species generated by plasma can penetrate into the cavity of the biofilm, causing damage and killing the bacteria within.
Researchers at TUM developed a new mortar resistant to water uptake by adding a biofilm produced by the bacterium Bacillus subtilis. The hybrid mortar exhibits a high contact angle, similar to Teflon, reducing the likelihood of liquid absorption.
Researchers found evidence of Vibrio species thriving on microplastic particles, posing a potential risk to human health. The study suggests that climate change could contribute to the proliferation of these bacteria.
Researchers have found that bacteria play a crucial role in the dispersion and re-concentration of platinum group elements in surface environments. The study, published in Nature Geoscience, suggests that bacterial processes can reform nuggets of platinum at the surface, shedding new light on the formation of these valuable metals.
Researchers have identified a new strain of bacteria A12 that can help neutralize acid and kill Streptococcus mutans, a harmful type of streptococcal bacteria. This discovery may lead to the development of a probiotic supplement to prevent cavities.
A University of Hawaii research team will investigate how specific strains of bacteria from marine biofilms induce the settlement and metamorphosis of a small tube worm. The goal is to understand the factors produced by the bacteria that cause the larvae to settle and undergo dramatic physical changes.