Articles tagged with Bacterial Genetics
Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center have discovered a new paradigm to understand the molecular principles of gene transcription in bacteria. The study reveals an allosteric mechanism by which Rho terminates transcription and shows that Rho binds tightly to RNA polymerase throughout the transcription cycle.
Scientists discovered that Myxococcus xanthus cells recognize subtle genetic differences in one another, inhibiting cooperation and promoting competition. This suggests that cooperation may be driven by a desire to maintain evolutionary dominance rather than a shared kinship bond.
Researchers at UCLA have genetically modified a cyanobacterium to consume carbon dioxide and produce isobutanol, a potential gasoline alternative. This method recycles carbon dioxide, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and uses solar energy, making it an efficient and less expensive approach than current biofuel production methods.
A team of researchers from Arizona State University has developed a process that removes a key obstacle to producing lower-cost, renewable biofuels. The team has programmed a photosynthetic microbe to self-destruct, making the recovery of high-energy fats and their biofuel byproducts easier and potentially less costly.
A new study found that female mandrills reproduce with males whose genes complement theirs, increasing the chances of their offspring resisting disease. The researchers believe this may be due to smell or selective fertilization, and the discovery supports the idea humans may also choose genetically compatible mates.
UT Southwestern researchers discovered that bacteria employ genetic circuits to generate diversity, increasing their chances of survival in unpredictable environments. This diversity allows individual bacteria to thrive under certain conditions, while others struggle, much like a diversified investment portfolio.
Researchers identified a genetic defect that selectively affects white blood cell production, potentially predisposing individuals to inflammatory bowel disease. The study's findings may provide insight into why IBD develops and help inform future treatment strategies.
Scientists have developed a therapy using genetically engineered Bacteroides ovatus that activates a human growth factor to treat bowel disorders like inflammatory bowel disease. The treatment reduces rectal bleeding, accelerates gut lining healing, and prevents disease onset.
Researchers from Imperial College London and Pfizer Research and Development found that urine samples can be used to predict how individuals will respond to certain drugs. The study looked at acetaminophen levels in urine before and after consumption and found that compounds like para-cresol sulphate were indicators of drug metabolism.
Researchers found a potent staph toxin responsible for disease severity and its connection to antibiotic resistance. The study identified the gene encoding the toxin, which is transmitted through horizontal gene transfer.
Case Western Reserve researcher Yiping Han aims to understand how to build roadblocks against harmful oral bacteria that can turn deadly in an unborn child. Her research has discovered an adhesin protein molecule that allows bacteria to connect with receptors on epithelial cells and endothelial cells of the placenta.
Researchers found that a key factor in quorum sensing is the ratio of bacteria to environment volume, regulating biological functions like bioluminescence and nutrient foraging. This discovery provides insights into fundamental design of quorum sensing systems and enables engineering of synthetic gene circuits.
Researchers found that Money spiders infected with Rickettsia bacteria have reduced long-distance dispersal, suggesting an adaptive modification by the bacteria to promote transmission. Treating the spiders with antibiotics increased their ballooning frequency.
Researchers found that certain microorganisms like E. coli and wine yeast have genetic networks that allow them to 'foresee' upcoming events and respond accordingly. This adaptation increases their chances of survival, similar to how Ivan Pavlov's dogs learned to salivate in response to a stimulus.
Researchers at NIH/National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases have discovered a new autoinflammatory syndrome, DIRA, which affects children from birth to 2 weeks of age. The disorder is caused by mutations in the IL1RN gene and can be treated with anakinra, a synthetic form of human IL-1Ra.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a 'surprising link' between three processes in cell wall synthesis, which could lead to the development of a new antibiotic. This breakthrough provides a novel method for searching for small molecule drugs targeting these pathways.
Research on cabbage looper caterpillars reveals that dietary bacteria can alter gene expression in metabolism, homeostasis, and immunity. The insects' ability to fine-tune their natural defenses through gene regulation may provide a survival advantage.
Researchers discovered the chlorophyll molecules' structure, enabling artificial photosynthetic systems. The chlorosomes contain up to 250,000 chlorophylls and have unique internal structures.
A study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology found that bacterial remnants and genetics contribute to arthritis. The NOD2 gene is activated by muramyl dipeptide, leading to inflammation and disease progression. Researchers hope to find treatments that can either eliminate or mask this inflammatory signal.
Researchers have identified the DegU protein as crucial for bacterial decision-making in biofilms. This protein enables individual bacteria to switch between different physiological processes, such as movement and biofilm production, in response to environmental conditions.
Researchers at the University of Bath are part of a €3 million Europe-wide collaboration to pioneer new, safer anti-bacterial plastics and coatings. The team has developed compounds effective against MRSA and other hospital bacterial infections, with the goal of incorporating them into various materials.
UT Southwestern researchers have identified a new receptor in E coli that senses stress cues from its host, triggering the release of toxins and causing disease. The discovery provides insight into how bacteria respond to stress and could lead to the development of new treatments for diseases such as sepsis.
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have discovered an enzyme that enables yeast cells to ferment xylose into ethanol, a waste sugar in the cellulosic ethanol production process. This single-step conversion technology has the potential to increase biofuel production efficiency and reduce competition with food and feed production.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory discovered plant-associated bacteria that can improve plant growth on marginal land, increasing biomass and carbon sequestration. The findings have implications for sustainable biofuel production without competing with food crops or agricultural land.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School discovered a natural product, surfactin, that causes bacteria to form social networks. Biofilm formation is triggered by potassium leakage and subsequent gene activity, leading to the creation of complex communities.
ETH Zurich researchers discovered a previously unknown protein structure and mechanism for sulfur transfer in E. coli, which could lead to the development of antibacterial drugs targeting urinary tract infections. The unique two-propeller structure of ASST catalyzes a ping-pong mechanism for sulfuryl transfer.
Scientists have successfully engineered bacteria to produce unusually long-chain alcohols essential in the creation of biofuels, packing more energy into a smaller space. The new method could lead to more efficient production of gasoline and jet fuel, reducing volatility and corrosion., Researchers used genetic modification to expand n...
Researchers found that genetically similar strains of Dictyostelium discoideum mix and cooperate during colony formation, contradicting earlier assumptions. The study's findings suggest specific genes produce sticky adhesives to secure partner connections.
Researchers found that social amoebae, such as Dictyostelium discoideum, aggregate based on genetic similarity to minimize conflict and increase chances of gene reproduction. This self/non-self mechanism is similar to immune systems in higher organisms.
Researchers reveal a surprising mechanism of action for certain antibiotics, finding that they trigger the production of hydroxyl radicals, contributing to bacterial cell death. The study identifies potential new targets for antibiotic development and could help rejuvenate older antibiotics.
Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum für Infektionsforschung used computer models to identify genetic changes that increase biosynthetics production in Pseudomonas putida bacteria. The study, published in PLOS Computational Biology, aims to develop targeted methods for producing natural materials efficiently.
Scientists have identified a new species of bacteria that can cause bone infections, offering hope for improved diagnosis and treatment. The discovery relates to Mycobacterium species, which also cause tuberculosis and leprosy, and may lead to the development of new drugs to combat resistance.
Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center have successfully manipulated flavor enzymes in plants, opening up possibilities for fine-tuning fruit flavors. The breakthrough could also lead to novel pest control methods using green leaf volatiles and jasmonates.
A twin study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that flossing can decrease gum disease-causing bacteria. Regular flossing can help reduce the amount of periodontal disease-causing bacteria in the mouth, contributing to healthy teeth and gums.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a novel method called GIANT-Coli to study genetic interactions in E. coli, allowing rapid and large-scale studies of the bacterium's genes. This method has great potential to quicken the discovery of new gene functions, with potential applications in medicine.
Researchers found that certain bacteria can harness iron from the environment or human host using a unique gene. This discovery could lead to new ways to target diseases like tuberculosis by limiting access to essential iron sources.
Researchers found hundreds of genes affected by bacterial partnership in a squid host, including those associated with human responses to bacteria. This discovery may change our understanding of the main purpose of the immune system.
Scientists studying bacteria at Evolution Canyon found that ecotypes on hot and cool slopes have distinct fatty acid compositions, enabling them to cope with temperature differences.
Researchers at Princeton University found that bacteria can use sensed cues to infer future events, adapting to changing environments over time. By studying Escherichia coli's behavior, the team discovered a strategic response to temperature and oxygen changes, allowing the bacterium to survive in a dynamic ecosystem.
Researchers identified sequence variations in the ARP gene that allow differentiating venereal syphilis from non-venereal Treponema pallidum subspecies. The findings have significant clinical, epidemiological and evolutionary implications.
A team of Penn State scientists has discovered a novel bacterial species, Chryseobacterium greenlandensis, that has survived for over 120,000 years in the ice of a Greenland glacier. The microorganism's ability to persist in extreme conditions makes it useful for studying life in various environments on Earth and potentially elsewhere.
Researchers have discovered that Type IV pili on bacteria can bundle together and pull with forces far stronger than previously thought possible. This discovery sheds light on the role of pili in initiating infectious diseases such as tuberculosis.
A genetic study found that chance determines the fate of B. subtilis bacteria, with only a portion producing proteins that benefit the colony and help them form spores. The study used computer simulations to analyze the genes controlling protein production and spore formation.
A long-term study of twins has led USC researchers to find potential links between Hodgkin lymphoma and levels of an immune response protein, interleukin-12. Lower levels of this protein may increase susceptibility to the disease.
Scientists have discovered that microbes produce dimethyl sulphide (DMS) gas at a rate of over 200 million tonnes per year in the world's seas. This climate-changing gas has multiple effects, including triggering cloud formation and attracting birds to food sources.
Researchers aim to create genetic profile of Streptoccocus mutans bacterium to predict disease in children from diverse backgrounds. The study's findings will propel the development of a diagnostic test to prevent devastating consequences of early childhood caries.
A new study reveals that some individuals, like slime moulds, are genetically programmed to cheat and benefit from it. In a complex evolutionary arms race, cheaters thrive when non-cheaters fail.
A new study investigates the genetics behind the symbiotic relationship between nitrogen-fixing bacteria and plants, finding evidence of specific genetic changes. The research suggests a common evolutionary origin of intracellular root symbioses with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in plants such as legumes and actinorhiza.
A team led by Katrina Edwards is drilling into the ocean floor to study subseafloor microbes, which may affect ocean chemistry and global climate. The five-year project will use complex engineering and instrumentation to conduct long-term experiments and uncover new details about these microbes.
A new model system has enabled scientists to conduct powerful genetic studies directly in the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, leading to a better understanding of its biological processes. This discovery could provide valuable leads on how to stop parasite growth and prevent diseases affecting millions of people.
Scientists are developing a novel treatment strategy to target the key enzyme responsible for tooth decay in Streptococcus mutans bacteria. By disrupting this enzyme, researchers hope to render the bacteria more vulnerable to acid damage and prevent the formation of cavity-causing acid.
A Cornell research team used gene chips to study Mycobacterium tuberculosis and found that the bacteria's genes are activated after being engulfed by a macrophage. The study also compared the responses of M. tuberculosis to BCG, finding that BCG may be less capable of protecting itself once inside a macrophage.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that inactivating a specific gene in Erwinia carotovora bacteria severely impedes its ability to cause blackleg and soft rot in potatoes. This finding has significant implications for developing new anti-rot agents and pesticides.
Researchers have identified two genes, ARTS1 and IL23R, that increase the risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis, a common disease causing back pain and progressive stiffness. A potential treatment for Crohn's disease may also be applied to this disease, providing a major step towards being able to treat ankylosing spondylitis.
In 1977, Carl Woese led a team that identified archaea as a unique domain of life, distinct from bacteria and other organisms. Their discovery opened up a new field of study and revolutionized biology, particularly microbial ecology.
A genetically engineered eggplant has been developed to resist the fruit and shoot borer, a highly destructive pest causing up to 40% of crop losses in India, Bangladesh, and the Philippines. The Bt eggplant is expected to reduce insecticide use by 30% while doubling yield, benefiting farmers and consumers in South Asia.
A recent study reveals Deinococcus geothermalis, a highly radiation-resistant bacterium, originated on Earth, not Mars. Contrary to previous speculation, the research defines a minimal set of genes responsible for its extreme resistance, offering hope for conferring this trait to other organisms.
A new study by Oregon State University microbiologists found that one type of bacteria has mutants that shut down communication systems to avoid sharing nutrients. This allows the lazy bacteria to grow faster and outcompete others, but also reveals a paradox in microbiology and potential strategies for combating bacterial infections.
A new study shows that spaceflight affects the genetic responses and disease-causing potential of Salmonella typhimurium, making it more infectious. The research, led by Arizona State University, reveals a key role for a master regulator called Hfq in triggering these changes.
A recent study using metagenomics reveals a surprising high number of quorum sensing genes in the deep Mediterranean, indicating microbes associate with detritus particles. These bacteria have been found to be luminescent, possibly to attract prey in the food-scarce environment.