A toxic bullet involved in bacterial competition found by researchers
A new toxin discovered in Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been found to degrade DNA and stop the growth of rival bacteria, providing insight into bacterial warfare mechanisms.
Bacterial Dna
Articles tagged with Bacterial Dna
Regeneration in the digestive tract
Researchers found that gut bacteria partially recovered six months after antibiotic treatment, but with a loss of sensitive bacterial species. Resistance genes also increased in the remaining bacteria. Over time, good microbes like bifidobacteria took over, normalizing the microbiome.
Your showerhead slime is alive
Researchers found Mycobacterium bacteria thriving in US showerheads, particularly in areas with high rates of lung disease. The study also revealed geographic patterns and material-specific influences on bacterial growth.
Mycoplasma pathogens sneaking past our line of defense
New research reveals that Mycoplasma pathogens produce DNA building blocks using a metal-free process, which may enable them to survive and multiply despite a lack of metals. This unique strategy has been found in bacteria that infect mucosal surfaces in the respiratory and genital tracts.
Synthetic microorganisms allow scientists to study ancient evolutionary mysteries
Researchers engineer organisms with hybrid RNA-DNA genomes to explore the transition from RNA to DNA and the origins of mitochondria. This allows them to probe key theories about early evolution and gain insights into the emergence of complex life forms.
Breast milk, formula nurture similarities, differences in gut microbes
A new study found that while formula and breast milk encourage similar bacteria growth in infants' digestive tracts, the bacteria work differently. Breastfed babies' microbiomes compensate for protein levels by increasing amino acid synthesis, whereas formula-fed babies produce a distinct set of amino acids.
Breakthrough test screens for all known bacterial infections
The BacCapSeq platform detects signs of antibiotic resistance and virulence in 4.2 million genetic probes, outperforming traditional methods in sensitivity and speed. It has the potential to reduce mortality, morbidity, and healthcare costs by providing accurate, early differential diagnosis of infectious diseases.
Researchers wake-up DNA from soil bacteria to discover novel acid antibiotic
Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a novel acid antibiotic, Scleric Acid, by engineering DNA from soil bacteria. The compound shows moderate antibacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and has potential applications as a biocatalyst for manufacturing high-value chemicals.
Pathogens may evade immune response with metal-free enzyme required for DNA replication
Researchers have identified a novel subclass of metal-free ribonucleotide reductase enzymes used by bacterial pathogens to replicate their DNA without the required metal ions. This discovery could drive the development of new, more effective antibiotics that target this enzyme.
Smallest life forms have smallest working CRISPR system
Researchers found a compact CRISPR gene-editing machinery in ancient microbes, dubbed Cas14, which is smaller than other Cas proteins and has the potential to improve rapid diagnostic systems for infectious diseases, genetic mutations, and cancer. The discovery of Cas14 could provide a powerful addition to diagnostic tools.
New techniques can detect Lyme disease weeks before current tests
Researchers have developed new techniques to detect Lyme disease bacteria weeks sooner than current tests, indicating active infection and enabling quicker treatment. The new direct tests detect DNA or protein from Borrelia burgdorferi, increasing the accuracy of an early diagnosis.
Researchers discover what pneumococcus says to make you sick
Carnegie Mellon University researchers identified a molecule called BriC that plays a key role in bacterial communication and infection. BriC helps pneumococcus produce biofilms, making infections more robust, but may also be a target to render bacteria more sensitive to antibiotic treatment.
Blue roses could be coming soon to a garden near you
Researchers have successfully created a blue rose through genetic engineering by expressing pigment-producing enzymes from bacteria in white roses, resulting in a blue color. The team's breakthrough could lead to the mass production of true-blue roses without dye or injections.
Pneumonia-causing bacteria can be spread by nose picking and rubbing
A study found that pneumococcus bacteria can spread at the same rate whether it is dry or wet, and when a person picks or pokes their nose as when they rub their nose. Ensuring good hand hygiene and keeping toys clean could help protect young children from catching and spreading the bacteria.
Periodontal disease bacteria may kick-start Alzheimer's
A study by UIC researchers found that long-term exposure to periodontal disease bacteria causes inflammation and degeneration of brain neurons similar to Alzheimer's disease. Chronic infection leads to neural effects, including senile plaque formation and brain inflammation.
Recording device for cell history
ETH Zurich researchers have created a molecular recording system that writes transcriptional events into DNA, allowing permanent storage and later access. The CRISPR-Cas system records genetic information about pathogens infecting the cell, storing it in a specific stretch of DNA known as a CRISPR array.
Commandeering microbes pave way for synthetic biology in military environments
A team of scientists from the US Army Research Laboratory and MIT have developed a novel synthetic biology tool that delivers DNA programming into a broad range of bacteria. The XPORT bacterium enables precise and controlled transfer of DNA to various microorganisms, opening up new possibilities for military applications.
UM researchers publish discoveries on antibiotic resistance
Researchers found that polymers in airway mucus physically push on bacterial cells, causing stress responses that make them tolerate higher levels of antibiotics. This stress response is triggered by mild DNA damage, slowing down bacterial growth and making it harder to kill with antibiotics.
Viruses discern, destroy E. coli in drinking water
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new test that employs a bacteriophage to detect the presence of E. coli in drinking water. The test can provide results within hours, rather than days, allowing for faster action to be taken in case of contamination.
Hit 'em where they eat: Stealth drug fights resistant bacteria
Researchers have discovered a new approach to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria by tricking them into taking up a molecule that causes harm. Gallium, a metal similar to iron, is used as a Trojan horse to disrupt bacterial nutrition and shut down essential processes.
DNA islands effective as 'anti-bacterial drones'
A new study finds that DNA islands can be engineered to disable Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which are often resistant to antibiotics. The 'drone-like' vehicles deliver genetic payloads to bacterial populations, killing the bacteria and rescuing treated animals.
How bacteria play pass the parcel -- and help each other evade antibiotics
Scientists have discovered how bacteria, including Clostridium perfringens, pass genetic information to resist antibiotics and produce toxins. The new gene tcpK plays a critical role in this process, allowing bacteria to share genetic instructions with each other.
Chaos-inducing genetic approach stymies antibiotic-resistant superbugs
Researchers at University of Colorado Boulder develop Controlled Hindrance of Adaptation of OrganismS (CHAOS) approach to disrupt gene expressions in bacteria, effectively stunting their ability to evolve defenses. The method offers a sustainable long-term solution to combat antibiotic-resistant superbugs that infect nearly 2 million p...
Artificial cells are tiny bacteria fighters
Researchers at UC Davis have created artificial cells that can sense, react, and interact with bacteria, as well as detect and kill them. These artificially engineered cells mimic the essential features of live cells but are short-lived and cannot reproduce themselves.
Researchers target protein that protects bacteria's DNA 'recipes'
Scientists have discovered the unique characteristics of the Dps protein, which compacts bacterial DNA to protect it from damage. Despite compacting the DNA, the expression of genes remains unchanged. The study suggests that Dps may act as a shield to protect DNA while allowing bacteria to express genes necessary for survival.
Do bacteria ever go extinct? New research says yes, bigtime
A recent study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution found that bacteria undergo substantial extinctions over time, with estimates suggesting between 45,000 to 95,000 bacterial lineages going extinct in the last million years alone. This contradicts widely held scientific thinking that microbe taxa rarely die off.
Research on mutation 'hotspots' in DNA could lead to new insights on cancer risks
Researchers at Indiana University have identified 'hotspots' in DNA where genetic mutations are significantly elevated, including areas with repeated chemical letters and specific patterns of three letters. This study provides a roadmap for identifying similar trouble spots in human DNA.
Lectins help social amoeba establish their own microbiome
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that sugar-binding proteins called lectins are essential for social amoebas and bacteria living together. Lectins protect bacteria from being killed by amoebas and mediate the establishment of a microbiome, allowing bacteria to transfer genetic material to the amoeba.
Healthier hearts equal healthier guts
A new study by San Francisco State University found that exercise increases beneficial bacteria in the gut, leading to improved cardiovascular fitness. The study, which analyzed stool samples from 20 men and 17 women, revealed a higher ratio of firmicutes to bacteroides bacteria in those with better cardiovascular health.
Spleen microbes of wild animals change with tick-borne illness
Researchers discovered that Anaplasma bacteria alter the microbiota of mouse and shrew spleens, changing bacterial compositions. The study highlights wild animals as potential reservoirs for tick-borne diseases with public health importance.
Pneumococcal DNA predicts course of infection
Researchers have determined the entire DNA sequence of pneumococci isolated from patient blood, relating genetic variation to over twenty disease manifestations. The study identified specific bacterial genes linked to infection severity and mortality, providing new diagnostic tools.
Timing is key for bacteria surviving antibiotics
Princeton researchers found that cells repairing DNA damaged by antibiotics before resuming growth had a better chance of surviving treatment. Cells that make repairs before resuming growth are generally the ones that survive as persisters.
More than half of Amazonian armadillos carry leprosy
A new study found that 62% of armadillos in the Brazilian Amazon are infected with M. leprae, the bacteria causing leprosy. Residents who consume armadillo meat have higher levels of leprosy antibodies, highlighting the risk of transmission.
Cell-free DNA profiling informative way to monitor urinary tract infections
Researchers at Cornell University developed a new method to monitor urinary tract infections using cell-free DNA profiling, providing valuable information about the infection's dynamics and patient response. This technique has the potential to diagnose rare infections earlier and improve outcomes in kidney transplantation.
Fast-acting cholera vaccine could curb outbreaks
Researchers have developed a fast-acting cholera vaccine that protects against the deadly disease within a day, offering promise in curbing outbreaks. The vaccine, HaitiV, works by using harmless, lab-designed bacteria as a protective shield, preventing the pathogen from causing trouble.
Scientists watch bacteria 'harpoon' DNA to speed their evolution
Researchers at Indiana University have made the first direct observation of bacteria using a 'DNA harpoon' process to rapidly evolve new traits, including antibiotic resistance. The study revealed that pili act like microscopic harpooners to cast their line through pores in the cell's wall and reel in DNA fragments.
Oldest plague bacteria genome analyzed by Russian-German team
The study reveals that flea-borne plague existed for at least 4,000 years, with key virulence factors acquired in the Bronze Age. The researchers hope their findings will help predict future evolution of epidemics and better understand the spread of the deadly bacteria.
Wellcome Sanger Institute sequences reference genomes of 3,000 dangerous bacteria
The Wellcome Sanger Institute has sequenced the genomes of over 3,000 bacteria, including some of the world's most dangerous pathogens. This collection will help researchers better understand antibiotic resistance and develop new diagnostic tests, vaccines, or treatments for deadly diseases such as tuberculosis, gonorrhoea, and cholera.
Study suggests scientists can use microbial measurements to gauge river flow
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a tool that can accurately predict the flow rate of Arctic rivers based on bacterial abundance and composition. By analyzing microbial profiles, scientists can estimate discharge levels without deploying traditional flow meters in remote areas.
Gut bacteria play key role in anti-seizure effects of ketogenic diet, say UCLA scientists
Researchers found that the ketogenic diet alters gut microbiota in mice, leading to reduced seizures. Specifically, two types of bacteria - Akkermansia muciniphila and Parabacteroides species - play a key role in providing protection against seizures.
How do insects survive on a sugary diet?
Aphids rely on symbiotic bacteria to produce essential nutrients from sugar-rich diets. Researchers found that DNA methylation patterns in aphid cells influence gene expression related to nutrient production.
What bacteria can teach us about combating atrazine contamination
Researchers discover new proteins involved in atrazine degradation, shedding light on bacterial evolution and adaptation. The study's findings have implications for developing targeted enzymes to contain nitrogen runoff and mitigate algal blooms and animal die-offs.
Exploration of diverse bacteria signals big advance for gene function prediction
A new workflow has been developed to accelerate gene function assignments in bacteria, enabling large-scale assays of gene importance across many conditions. The study identified thousands of genes with previously unknown functions and provided an anchor for other researchers to make informed inference about protein function.
New approach in the fight against antibiotic resistance
Scientists at FAU and University of Oxford have discovered a regulatory checkpoint in bacterial gene expression that could be used to develop new antibiotics. This finding has the potential to help overcome antibiotic resistance, which kills around 700,000 people worldwide each year.
Urine of kidney disease patients contains diverse mix of bacteria
A study by Loyola Medicine researchers found a diverse mix of bacteria in the urine of kidney disease patients, including Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. This diversity is higher in patients experiencing urinary urgency and may lead to new approaches for treating lower urinary tract problems.
Vegan and traditional kimchi have same microbes, study finds
A study found that vegan and traditional kimchi have nearly identical microbial communities after fermentation, with lactobacillus and leuconostoc dominating the samples. The findings suggest that vegan kimchi can provide probiotic benefits similar to traditional kimchi.
Frontier of science: Planet's smallest microbes examined at nation's largest aquarium
A new study by Georgia Tech and Georgia Aquarium explores the diverse community of marine microorganisms living in the aquarium's water, revealing dynamic changes over time. The research aims to improve our understanding of these tiny organisms and their impact on aquatic ecosystems.
Fungus senses gravity using gene borrowed from bacteria
The pin mold fungus Phycomyces blakesleeanus uses a gene from bacteria to create large gravity-sensing crystals that help it grow upright. Genetic analysis reveals the role of horizontal gene transfer in acquiring this unique trait, providing insights into the evolution of adaptation.
Antibiotic resistance can be caused by small amounts of antibiotics
New research shows that low concentrations of antibiotics can lead to high antibiotic resistance in bacteria, with mutations occurring mainly in genes previously not regarded as typical resistance genes. This highlights the need to prevent further development of resistance.
E. coli's internal bomb may provide novel target for treatment strategy
Researchers found that targeting E. coli's toxin-antitoxin system, specifically the mazEF gene, can inhibit bacterial growth. The proposed strategy has the potential to be a selective inhibitor and can be adapted to work on multiple bacteria types.
Newly identified bacteria may help bees nourish their young
Researchers at UCR have isolated three new bacterial species from wild bees that may inhibit fungi growth in pollen provisions. These Lactobacillus strains could help preserve nectar and pollen for larvae, promoting bee health.
Caltech scientists breed bacteria that make tiny high-energy carbon rings
Researchers created a strain of bacteria that can produce bicyclobutanes, high-energy carbon rings useful in chemicals and materials. The bacteria were engineered using directed evolution, allowing them to efficiently create the strained rings under ambient conditions.
Gut microbes could help better predict risk of hospitalization for patients with cirrhosis
A recent study published in JCI Insight suggests that analysis of microbial DNA and RNA can predict hospitalizations for patients with cirrhosis with high accuracy. The researchers found that these analyses can identify beneficial bacteria and detect pathogenic bacteria, which are linked to inflammation and infection.
Molecular doorstop could be key to new tuberculosis drugs
Researchers at Rockefeller University discover a molecular doorstop antibiotic that kills Mycobacterium tuberculosis, but not suitable for clinical use. By understanding its mechanism of action, medicinal chemists can design new antibiotics that target specific enzymes, offering hope for a more targeted treatment against the disease.
Potential new way to limit antibiotic resistance spreading
Researchers at EMBL have unraveled the molecular basis of a major antibiotic resistance transfer mechanism and developed molecules to block its movement. This could help control the spread of antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria, including those that are part of our normal microbiome.
When sepsis patients face brain impairment, is gut bacteria to blame?
Researchers discovered that gut bacteria play a role in brain impairment after sepsis, with certain strains associated with neuroinflammation and cognitive difficulties. The study suggests treating gut bacteria may help reduce long-term effects of critical illness.
DNA scissors can cut RNA, too
Scientists have discovered that the CRISPR-Cas9 protein can also cut RNA, expanding its potential uses in gene editing and virus detection. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for genetic diseases and improved food and energy crops.
Innovative 'invisible ink' detects TB
Scientists have developed an innovative process to detect TB bacteria using a fluorogenic trehalose analog, called DMN-trehalose. This new stain only illuminates inside living TB bacteria, making diagnosis more accurate and quick. The innovation aims to simplify the traditional smear microscopy process.
Beneficial skin bacteria protect against skin cancer
Researchers identified a strain of Staphylococcus epidermidis that produces a chemical compound 6-N-hydroxyaminopurine (6-HAP), which inhibits the growth of some cancers. In mice exposed to UV rays, those with 6-HAP-producing bacteria had significantly reduced skin tumors.
Dyes for 'live' extremophile labeling will help discover life on Mars
Researchers have discovered a fluorescent dye that allows them to observe the life cycle of bacteria in real time, enabling the study of microorganisms in their natural environment. This method will help locate halophiles, ancient salt-loving organisms that thrive in extreme conditions and may hold clues to the origin of life on Earth.