Articles tagged with Bacterial Conjugation
Researchers at the John Innes Centre discovered a three-gene control hub that enables bacteria to share genes linked to antibiotic resistance. The study found that this mechanism is controlled by a bacterial immune system, which has been repurposed to release gene transfer agents.
Scientists create a natural polysaccharide-based edible coating that replaces synthetic packaging, extending shelf life while reducing global food waste. The biofilm shows improved mechanical strength, antioxidant properties, and antibacterial activity, making it an eco-friendly solution to address food waste issues.
A new study has identified novel strains of microbes that have adapted to use limited resources in cities, including those found in Hong Kong's subways and skin. These microbes can metabolize manufactured products, posing health risks if they are pathogenic.
Researchers found that zinc supplements can inhibit the transfer of AMR plasmids, reducing the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections. The study provides hope for developing an inexpensive and effective method to combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.
Researchers have identified spermidine as a key molecule that helps Salmonella survive inside macrophages by shielding it from oxidative stress. Targeting spermidine production with an FDA-approved drug, DFMO, may weaken the bacteria's ability to cause infection and improve survival rates in mice.
The discovery reveals that microbes can conjugate bile acids beyond glycine and taurine, increasing diversity and function of bile acids. This challenges scientific dogmas and raises questions about the role of bacteria in gut health.
Researchers discovered that gut bacteria's F-pili are stronger in harsh conditions, enabling efficient gene transfer and biofilm formation. The findings highlight the challenge of combating antibiotic resistance and suggest exploiting similar molecular properties for precise drug delivery.
A new computational technique analyzes bacterial genetic sequences to monitor the spread of antibiotic resistance over time. The study found that resistance genes most likely to spread are those on conjugative plasmids and targeting specific antibiotics, with many coming from a single source.
Researchers have discovered proteins that mediate intimate contacts between bacteria, enabling DNA transfer and resistance to antibiotics. Understanding this process can help develop new approaches to slow the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
Beneficial gut microbes transfer genes to acquire vitamin B12, increasing their ability to survive. This process, called bacterial sex, allows them to form a tube that DNA can pass through to another cell, demonstrating the horizontal gene exchange among microbes.
A team of chemists has synthesized molecules that can absorb any color of sunlight, from oranges to near-infrared. By understanding how these pigments work, they aim to manipulate their light absorption at will.
Researchers have created 'backpacking' bacteria that can carry micro- or nano-sized molecules or devices with useful properties. These biohybrid devices can move freely while carrying cargo, and the team plans to test their feasibility in laboratory experiments and potentially use them for diagnosing and treating diseases.
Researchers recommend selective use of antibiotics to treat Acute Otitis Media in children, while employing watchful waiting in non-critical cases to combat treatment-resistant bacterial strains. The study aims to reduce the emergence of new resistant bacterial strains.
Scientists created a mathematical model of bacterial gene transfer rates, taking into account natural subsurface environments. The new model suggests that bacterial transport and colonization are crucial factors in controlling gene spread, potentially impacting bioremediation and antibiotic resistance.
A rapid diagnostic test for plague has been developed to detect antigens at low concentrations within 15 minutes of infection. The test is 100% sensitive and reliable, detecting more infections than conventional laboratory assessments and providing opportunities for bioterrorism preparedness and response.