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Switching to light

A team of scientists at the University of Freiburg has developed a new optogenetic tool called BLADE that allows for controlled expression of genes in Escherichia coli using blue light. This breakthrough simplifies biotechnology methods and enables targeted protein production and signaling process studies.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

A protein with a dual role: Both repair and mutation

The Mfd protein's dual role in repairing bacterial DNA and promoting mutations has been discovered, offering new avenues for fighting antibiotic resistance. This phenomenon could also lead to a better understanding of cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2021

Deforestation favors an increase in the diversity of antibiotic-resistant soil bacteria

A study found that deforestation in the Amazon leads to an increase in antibiotic-resistant soil bacteria, with a larger number of genes and molecular mechanisms detected in deforested areas than in forested ones. The researchers warn that these microorganisms can pose a significant public health risk if they reach humans.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalSoil Biology and Biochemistry·DateMar 11, 2021

Research pinpoints unique drug target in antibiotic resistant bacteria

Scientists have pinpointed a critical mechanism allowing deadly bacteria to resist antibiotics, and discovered a potential new target for effective treatment. The study identified quinolone antibiotic resistance mechanisms, including the production of pentapeptide repeat proteins, and revealed how they inhibit bacterial enzymes.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2021

Antibiotic resistance from random DNA sequences

Researchers discovered that random DNA sequences can generate new genes producing antibiotic resistance, which can spread quickly among bacteria. The study used laboratory experiments with E. coli and found six peptides causing Colistin resistance by modifying the cell membrane.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 8, 2021

Potential treatment against antibiotic-resistant bacteria causing gonorrhea and meningitis

A Canadian team has developed an inexpensive molecule to fight antibiotic-resistant strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis, two bacteria responsible for gonorrhea and meningococcal meningitis. The molecule's specificity allows it to target pathogenic Neisseria while leaving other types unaffected.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateNov 24, 2020

The microbiome of Da Vinci's drawings

Researchers analyzed seven Da Vinci drawings using Nanopore sequencing, finding a dominance of bacteria over fungi, with many exhibiting human or insect microbiomes. The study also identified human DNA, likely introduced by restoration workers, and correlations with geographical location.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateNov 20, 2020

A tale of two cesspits: DNA reveals intestinal health in Medieval Europe and Middle East

A new study characterizes the microbial diversity of ancient gut contents from medieval latrines, providing insights into pre-industrial agricultural populations' microbiomes. The research highlights the value of ancient latrines as sources of bio-molecular information, shedding light on the health of modern microbiomes.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateOct 4, 2020

A tale of two cesspits: DNA reveals intestinal health in Medieval Europe and Middle East

A new study analyzed DNA from medieval latrines in Jerusalem and Riga, Latvia, providing insights into the microbiomes of pre-industrial agricultural populations. The findings highlight the value of ancient latrines as sources of bio-molecular information and may provide context for interpreting modern microbiome health.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateOct 4, 2020