Articles tagged with Bacterial Biofilms
Researchers have revealed the unique spring-like structure of E. coli pili, which allows it to withstand strong urine flow and infect the urinary tract. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments for UTIs.
A University of Michigan study found that nisin can kill 70-80 percent of head and neck tumor cells in rats and extend survival. Nisin also fights deadly bacteria such as MRSA, using its ability to bind to bacteria and kill biofilms.
Researchers at MIT and Cambridge University discovered that bacteria streaming through a lattice behave like electrons in a magnetic material. By tuning the lattice dimensions, they can direct billions of microbes to align and swim in the same direction, similar to electrons orbiting around atomic nuclei.
Researchers discovered that millions of bacteria in water pipes and purification plants help purify drinking water. The diversity of species is huge, with over 80,000 bacteria per milliliter detected in one study.
Research reveals alginate gel biofilms are highly dynamic and exchangeable, challenging previous assumptions about their structure. The findings may lead to new ways of modifying or disrupting these materials to combat bacterial infections in cystic fibrosis patients.
Researchers have uncovered how beneficial bacteria form a waterproof coating on plant roots to shield them from microbes that cause disease. This protective film incorporates proteins with shape-changing properties, enabling it to repel water and potentially harmful molecules.
Scientists discovered that bacterial biofilms are associated with colon cancer, particularly in the ascending colon. A novel imaging technique revealed diverse microbial communities in these biofilms, suggesting a possible link between bacteria and tumor development.
Researchers discovered a functional antibacterial gene in Archaea, which produces a broad-spectrum lysozyme enzyme. This enzyme kills certain species of bacteria, including those resistant to current antibiotics, and could lead to new antibacterial drug development.
Researchers at Michigan State University have enhanced microbes to clean up nuclear waste by strengthening their pili nanowires. The improved microbes form a biofilm with increased armor, allowing them to neutralize more uranium and survive in higher concentrations.
Researchers tracked bacterial colonies using experimental tools to observe massive phenotypic diversification in aging Escherichia coli colonies. They found diverse metabolic capacities, stress resistance, and improved biofilm production among survivors of senescent colonies.
Researchers at MIT have successfully designed and created living materials that incorporate non-living components, such as gold nanoparticles and quantum dots. These hybrid materials exhibit unique properties, including the ability to conduct electricity and emit light, making them suitable for various energy applications.
The annual challenge honored recipients who used visual media to convey scientific research and ideas, featuring award-winning entries such as 'Dynamic Earth' on climate change and 'Wearable Power' on sustainable energy. The competition received over 1,983 public votes for the People's Choice awards.
Researchers at Princeton University discovered that bacteria like Vibrio cholerae have a system to prevent freeloaders from enjoying the fruit of others' hard work. By producing a thick coating or using natural fluid flow, these microbes deny access to nutrients generated by productive community members.
A team of scientists discovered well-preserved remnants of a complex ecosystem in nearly 3.5 billion-year-old sedimentary rock sequence in Western Australia. Advanced chemical analyses point to a biological origin of the material, suggesting that complex mat-forming microbial communities likely existed almost 3.5 billion years ago.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that oral bacteria under the gums can discriminate between ethnicities with high accuracy. The researchers identified 398 species of microbes and found that each ethnic group had a distinct 'signature' of shared microbial communities.
A new microfluidic device can quickly identify harmless bacteria and those that produce biofilms, which are associated with disease. This breakthrough could enable faster diagnosis and more effective treatment of conditions such as cystic fibrosis.
A new anti-tuberculosis compound has shown powerful activity against ordinary active TB bacteria, non-replicating TB bacteria, and extensively drug-resistant strains. The compound works in two different ways, targeting TB replication and dormancy, and shows no toxicity or adverse side effects.
A former University of California, Riverside graduate student built a system that replicates a human colon, septic tank, and groundwater to understand the impact of bacteria on groundwater. His research found that pathogens could potentially linger longer in aquatic environments, posing a risk to water quality.
Researchers at University at Buffalo have found a breast milk protein complex, HAMLET, that can help restore sensitivity to antibiotics in drug-resistant bacteria. The study showed that HAMLET can lower the dose of antibiotics needed by a factor of eight or more, making it a promising treatment option for superbugs like MRSA.
A new study found that pharmaceuticals, including antihistamines, alter biofilm communities in streams, leading to reduced photosynthesis and microbial respiration. The most striking effect was observed with diphenhydramine, which caused a 99% decrease in photosynthesis and changed bacterial species present in the biofilms.
Researchers found that a strain of probiotic bacteria can alter its coat to outcompete harmful bacteria. This ability may prevent the growth of Clostridium perfringens in poultry, reducing the risk of necrotic enteritis and food poisoning.
Researchers have created a material that uses physical movement to knock away bacteria, reducing drag and improving energy efficiency on ships. The innovative solution avoids toxic chemicals often found in traditional antibacterial paints.
Researchers discovered that E. coli strains can form biofilms more readily on plant surfaces, using plant-derived sugars for survival. The findings provide insights into the evolution of E. coli populations and offer targets for preventing dangerous strains from contaminating vegetables.
Researchers found that varying the pH and filter cleaning can shift the balance of beneficial microbes in drinking water. They suggest this could help reduce harmful bacteria, making water safer for consumers.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a compound that can reactivate antibiotics against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), making it effective again. The new compound works by short-circuiting the bacteria's ability to mount a defense against the antibiotic.
Researchers discovered that certain types of bacteria form biofilms on filters, breaking off into drinking water due to pH levels. Simple changes to filter cleaning and water pH can shift the balance towards beneficial bacteria, potentially improving water quality.
Researchers at Rice University will study how bacterial decision-making occurs at the molecular level, aiming to improve medical applications and environmental remediation. The project combines computational and experimental techniques to bridge the gap in understanding biological systems.
Researchers at Arizona State University improved microbial fuel cell efficiency by modifying cathode materials and adjusting pH levels. By enhancing hydroxide ion transport, they increased power densities and reduced losses in MFC performance.
Researchers use JILA's frequency comb to measure concentrations of reactive molecules in air streams, capturing complex chemical reactions and optimizing sterilization techniques. The system achieves high-level disinfection without liquid chemicals or high temperatures.
Dr. E. Peter Greenberg, a renowned microbiologist, has been recognized for his groundbreaking work on quorum sensing and biofilms. He is also celebrated for his exceptional mentoring skills, inspiring generations of scientists.
The Black Queen Hypothesis suggests that microbes can lose necessary functions and rely on others to do the work, enabling cooperation in communities. Prochlorococcus plankton species, studied by the authors, is an example of this adaptation.
The AADR has awarded the 2012 Neal W. Chilton Fellowship in Clinical Research to Bing-Yan Wang, an associate professor at the University of Texas Health Science Center. The fellowship will support Wang's clinical testing of a mouthwash effective against oral bacteria.
Researchers at Newcastle University have engineered a microbial biofilm that significantly increases the electrical output of Microbial Fuel Cells. By selecting specific bacteria species, including Bacillus stratosphericus and Bacillus altitudinis, they doubled the electricity generation to 200 Watts per cubic meter.
Researchers discovered a new bacterial signal that enables invading bacteria to coordinate attacks on plants, but also triggers a defense response in targeted rice plants. The study found that the protein Ax21 is secreted by bacteria and induces an immune response in rice, leading to a stronger defense against infection.
Researchers have solved the molecular mechanism of anammox, a crucial pathway in the nitrogen cycle that converts ammonia to nitrogen without oxygen. The study reveals the role of hydrazine and nitric oxide as intermediates, shedding light on how this process occurs.
The UMass Amherst team discovered a fundamental property of microbial nanowires in Geobacter sulfurreducens that allows for long-range electron transport. This breakthrough could lead to cheaper, nontoxic nanomaterials for biosensors and solid-state electronics.
Research suggests that stress alters the balance of intestinal bacteria, leading to increased levels of immune biomarkers and priming the innate immune system. The study found that antibiotics can reduce this effect, highlighting the role of gut bacteria in modulating stress-induced immune responses.
Researchers found that postmenopausal women on bisphosphonate therapies for osteoporosis had abnormal dental plaque levels, which could endanger the jawbone. The study recommends more frequent dental checkups, including deep periodontal cleanings, to control dental plaque and prevent bone loss.
Researchers have discovered that specialized bacterial filaments, known as nanowires, can conduct electricity, allowing microbial colonies to thrive. The findings suggest a new way for bacteria to transfer electrons and support each other, potentially leading to breakthroughs in biofilm resistance and sustainable energy.
A recent study published by the American Chemical Society found that cranberry juice is effective in preventing urinary tract infections. The study revealed that cranberry juice cocktail can prevent E. coli bacteria from sticking to other bacteria and surfaces, allowing it to be flushed out of the urinary tract more easily.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a method for enhancing the efficiency of microbial electrochemical cells (MXCs) using specialized bacteria. By creating a mutual relationship between homo-acetogens and anode bacteria, they can improve electron flow and increase hydrogen production, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
The US Army has taken delivery of the first two units of a revolutionary waste-water treatment system developed by Sam Houston State University. The system uses proprietary bacteria to clean polluted water with high efficiency and can be deployed in remote areas with minimal infrastructure.
Researchers developed a revolutionary packaged wastewater treatment system using naturally occurring bacteria, leaving no toxic by-products and requiring minimal energy. The system has been deployed in Afghanistan and offers scalable solutions for large-scale and small-scale applications.
A new environmentally friendly coating has been developed using spores from a bacterium to prevent microbial corrosion of metals in seawater. The coating was found to be substantially more effective than existing treatments and could be heat cured at temperatures up to 90°C.
Researchers at Duke University found that buckyballs can hinder bacterial accumulation on water membranes, leading to a potential cost savings of 50% in membrane replacements. This attribute makes buckyballs a promising anti-fouling agent for addressing one of the major problems and costs of treating water.
Researchers developed a new technique to monitor bacterial health in wastewater treatment facilities using sensor technology. The method, called self-referencing, senses minute changes in chemistry related to bacterial health and yields results immediately.
A team of scientists found that a single gene is enough for bacteria to switch from one host animal to another. The study, published in Nature, reveals the genetic pressure point that could be manipulated to thwart germs that make us sick.
Researchers found that Listeria monocytogenes can survive on meat factory surfaces more effectively when competing with Pseudomonas fluorescens, a common food spoilage bacteria. The presence of duck juices at optimal temperatures allows for higher attachment levels of Listeria.
Scientists have discovered a living sensor bacteria that can thrive in cold temperatures and clean up arsenic contamination. The discovery also opens up possibilities for developing an arsenic biosensor to warn of pollution escapes into watercourses or drinking water supplies.
Researchers found previously reported dinosaur soft tissues were actually bacterial biofilms, created by bacteria that coated the voids once occupied by blood vessels and cells. The discovery challenges the notion of preserved dinosaur tissues still surviving.
Researchers at MIT have developed ultrathin films made of polymers that can control bacterial adhesion, offering a potential solution for reducing hospital-acquired infections. The films can be designed to prevent hazardous bacteria accumulation or promote growth of desirable bacteria.
A team of scientists discovered cellulose microfibers in ancient salt deposits, estimated to be 253 million years old. This finding suggests that cellulose may have played a role in the development of life on Earth and could potentially serve as a 'paper trail' for searching for life on other planets.
A team of researchers at Arizona State University has gained critical insights into a promising microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology using bacteria to generate electricity. The MFC can handle various water-based organic fuels, making it a viable option for wastewater treatment and energy production.
A study by University of Southern California researchers found that bacteria-free fruit flies lived as long as their bacterial counterparts, challenging conventional wisdom about the impact of microbes on lifespan. The finding suggests that factors other than bacterial load may limit life span.
A new model developed by Dr. Sam Brown recognizes the impact of durable goods on cooperation, showing that cheaters can increase without immediate consequences but ultimately face costs when others follow suit. This research has far-reaching implications for fields like ecology, economics, and medicine.
Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory discovered that certain bacteria excrete proteins that aggregate metal nanoparticles, reducing their toxicity and mobility. This phenomenon could lead to the development of protein-based methods for cleaning up polluted environments on a larger scale.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a new microbial fuel cell system that uses brush anodes and tubular cathodes to produce more power from wastewater. The system, which uses naturally occurring bacteria, can clean water while generating electricity, reducing the need for energy consumption.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new technique called desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) to rapidly detect and precisely identify bacteria. This method enables the analysis of living bacteria in under a minute, with high accuracy and specificity.
Dr. Marquis has been recognized with the IADR Research in Dental Caries Award for his groundbreaking work on fluoride's effects on bacterial metabolism and acid-base metabolism in dental plaque. His research has elucidated key mechanisms of acid tolerance and contributed to a better understanding of oral biofilms.
Researchers discovered that Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 bacteria protect metals like copper, aluminum, and mild steel from corrosion. The study found increased resistance to electrical currents and reduced pitting in metals exposed to the bacteria.