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Gut bacteria may play a role in Alzheimer's disease

A study from Lund University found that intestinal bacteria can accelerate the development of Alzheimer's disease in mice. The researchers discovered a direct causal link between gut bacteria and the disease, suggesting that modulating the gut microbiota through diet and probiotics could prevent or delay its onset.

SourceLund University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 10, 2017

New breakthrough for IBS patients

A new study has found that faecal bacterial profiles can be used to predict which IBS patients are most likely to benefit from a low-FODMAP diet. The research identified differences in gut bacteria composition between those who responded and did not respond to the diet.

Study debunks common myth that urine is sterile

Researchers from Loyola University Chicago found bacteria in the bladders of healthy women, challenging the common belief that normal urine is sterile. The study also revealed differences in bladder bacteria between healthy women and those with overactive bladder (OAB), which may contribute to OAB symptoms.

Human activity influences beach bacterial diversity

Bacterial community composition at two beaches shows distinct differences but also similarities, suggesting regional human impact variations. Higher bacterial diversity at one site indicates better ecological health and resiliency to sewage contamination.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 5, 2014

How bacteria respond so quickly to external changes

A new model from Uppsala University predicts how bacteria can rapidly adapt to environmental changes through smart regulation of gene expression. The study shows the ultimate limit for bacterial protein level adjustments in response to changing environments.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2013

Eczema in infants linked to gut bacteria

A new study published in BMC Microbiology reveals that children with eczema have a more diverse set of bacteria in their guts than healthy children. The types of bacteria present were also more typical of adult gut microbes, suggesting an early change towards adult-type bacteria may be a risk factor for eczema.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Microbiology·DateJan 22, 2013

Antibiotics based on a new principle may defeat MRSA

Scientists have discovered a new antibiotic principle that selectively blocks the thioredoxin system in bacterial cells, making certain bacteria vulnerable to inhibition. This mechanism could potentially treat conditions like stomach ulcers, TB, and MRSA, providing a new solution for combating antibiotic-resistant infections.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateDec 18, 2012

Kittens: Their microbiomes are what they eat

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that the gut microbiome composition of growing kittens differs depending on their diet, with high-protein diets linked to lower levels of health-promoting bacteria. Conversely, moderate-protein diets were associated with higher levels of beneficial bacteria, potentially promoting bett...

Gut bacteria could cause diabetes

A study published in Nature reveals that people with type 2 diabetes have a high level of pathogens in their intestines, which can increase resistance to certain medicines. The research also identifies biological indicators that could be used for faster and earlier diagnosis of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2012

U of M faculty find antimicrobials altering intestinal bacteria composition in swine

A study by University of Minnesota researchers found that antimicrobial growth promoters in swine alter intestinal bacteria composition, leading to accelerated growth and development. The findings suggest a possible alternative to antibiotics in animal production without compromising animal health.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Academic Health Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 4, 2012

Caesarean section delivery may double risk of childhood obesity

Research finds that caesarean section delivery may double the risk of subsequent childhood obesity, with higher levels of Firmicutes bacteria and lower Bacteroides bacteria in the guts of children born via c-section. This association is thought to influence energy extraction from diets, insulin resistance, inflammation, and fat deposits.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateMay 23, 2012

Loyola study debunks common myth that urine is sterile

Researchers at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine found bacteria in the bladders of some healthy women, challenging the common belief that normal urine is sterile. The study also revealed that standard urine collection methods can be contaminated by vaginal bacteria.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateApr 9, 2012

Healthy gut flora could prevent obesity

A study by Caroline Karlsson found that rats fed a specific lactic acid bacteria HEAL19 had significantly less weight and inflammation compared to those without the bacteria. Additionally, babies born vaginally have lactobacilli in their gut flora as early as two days after birth.

Protecting embryos against microbes

Researchers at Kiel University found a unique antibacterial peptide in Hydra embryo that prevents benign bacteria from colonizing. This mechanism helps protect the embryo and potentially other organisms, altering the composition of bacterial colonization in adults as well.

SourceKiel University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 4, 2010

Talking to cells

Researchers at the University of Nottingham created artificial polymer vesicles that can communicate with bacterial cells using sugar groups. These vesicles transfer information to the cells in the form of dye molecules, opening possibilities for targeted drug delivery and treatment.

SourceWiley·DateJun 5, 2008

Bacteria feed on smelly breath (and feet)

A recent study published in Environmental Microbiology found methylotrophic bacteria present in the mouths of healthy volunteers and those with gum disease, but no association between bacterial levels and bad breath. The discovery may lead to a natural way of reducing smelly breath and feet.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateJul 26, 2005