Articles tagged with Bacterial Genetics
Researchers have discovered that certain bacteria use quorum sensing to regulate their virulence levels, allowing them to coexist with insects without causing harm. By studying the genetic differences between mutualistic and pathogenic strains of bacteria, scientists have gained insights into the mechanisms behind these relationships.
Scientists have identified a molecular mechanism by which E. coli bacteria regulate lipid storage in C. elegans, leading to increased fat accumulation and mitochondrial fragmentation. This discovery reveals unsuspected connections between bacteria and mitochondria, suggesting a new language for communication between the two.
A UMass Medical School study found that the bacteria in the gut microbiome can affect how sensitive worms are to chemotherapy drugs. The researchers used Caenorhabditis elegans, a roundworm, and fed them different types of bacteria to see which ones made them more or less sensitive to the drug floxuridine, used to treat colorectal cancer.
Researchers have developed tools to visualize and control bacterial activity in the gut, opening up new possibilities for therapeutic delivery. These tools enable precise control of bacterial gene activity in specific locations within the gastrointestinal tract.
Researchers from Hebrew University of Jerusalem develop novel system combining lasers and bacteria to remotely map location of buried landmines. The system detects explosive vapors emitted by mines, which are then recorded and quantified from a remote location.
A UMD study found fruit flies taking naps had strongest resistance to fungal infection and bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is a major human disease-causing agent. The research identified genes that contribute to overall immune system resistance, providing new insights into human health.
Researchers at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology developed a method to predict protein structures using statistical analyses. This approach allows for the prediction of even complex protein structures without experimental determination, potentially leading to new treatments for diseases like Alzheimer's.
A team of scientists has identified a new way that gut bacteria can break down complex sugars, revealing novel enzymes with potential applications in developing pre- and probiotic products to improve human health.
Researchers identified biological substrates of bacterial enzyme Ohr, which enables bacteria to neutralize oxidizing substances released by the defense system of host organisms. The study's findings suggest that Ohr plays a central role in bacterial anti-oxidant defense and offer potential for novel therapeutic approaches.
Researchers at Hiroshima University developed a smart genetic reference library to determine disease-causing mutations in populations. The technique and database estimated naturally occurring rare-variants in the STAT1 gene and determined associated diseases. This will assist doctors in diagnosing primary-immunodeficiency in patients, ...
Researchers designed a novel genetic switch that shuts down competing metabolic pathways in bacteria, allowing for increased production of glucaric acid and other chemicals. The switch uses quorum sensing to autonomously control the cells' growth, enabling efficient production without adding new chemicals or changing process conditions.
Scientists have discovered that marine bacteria can synthesise dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), an important nutrient for microorganisms and precursor to the climate-cooling gas dimethyl sulfide (DMS). The production of DMSP by many marine bacteria has significant implications for the global sulfur cycle.
Scientists have discovered a sulfide-responsive protein, SqrR, in purple bacteria that regulates photosynthetic electron transfer to survive sulfide stress. This finding sheds light on the early evolution of photosynthesis and has potential applications in synthetic biology.
Scientists at Emory University discovered that Brazilian peppertree extract can disarm antibiotic-resistant staph bacteria by disrupting their communication, preventing skin lesions and promoting healing. The finding holds potential for new treatments against antibiotic-resistant infections.
A large-scale study detected high levels of antibiotic resistance genes in estuaries along China's coastline, with some samples containing up to 100 million genes per gram of sediment. The study suggests that human activity, particularly inadequate wastewater treatment, is the primary cause of this environmental pollution.
Researchers have discovered that genetic changes in African Salmonella strains allow them to hijack immune cells and spread throughout the body. This enables the bacteria to cause systemic diseases like bloodstream infections and meningitis, which are often fatal.
Researchers found that enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) differentiates into two sub-populations, one virulent and one non-virulent, with the virulent state maintaining long-term memory. This discovery sheds light on bacterial virulence strategies and may lead to new approaches for fighting infections.
Research reveals that bacteria eliminating competitors creates conditions for thriving populations, leading to cooperative family structures. The study suggests that similar patterns can be seen in natural objects, providing insights into bacterial behavior.
Belgian scientists discovered protein Taok3 plays a key role in B cell development, leading to new molecular therapies for genetic conditions, asthma and diabetes. Mice genetically lacking Taok3 developed fewer type B immune cells, making them more susceptible to bacterial infections.
Biomedical engineers at Duke University developed a new treatment approach using Salmonella bacteria to target glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain cancer. The modified bacteria produce anti-tumor compounds that kill cancer cells only in low-oxygen environments, showing promising results in rat models.
A UK-based international team of researchers has made a breakthrough in understanding the mechanism of mcr-1 gene-mediated resistance to colistin. They identified key features necessary for the protein that modifies bacterial surface to reduce colistin binding, and constructed computer models to block MCR-1 function.
Researchers found that susceptible bacteria can survive longer when resistant bacteria are present and even outcompete them. This new understanding can inform doctors on how to use antibiotics more effectively, but also highlights the need for a personalized-medicine approach.
Researchers show that fungal hyphae provide an infrastructure for bacterial horizontal gene transfer, allowing bacteria to adapt better to different environmental conditions and access new food sources. Soils with high fungal content are likely better equipped to break down pollutants.
A Michigan State University research team discovered that Campylobacter jejuni in undercooked chicken triggers Guillain-Barre Syndrome, an autoimmune disease causing paralysis. The study offers new information for a cure and suggests that treatment with some antibiotics could worsen the disease.
University of North Carolina researchers sequenced the genes of a harmful algae bloom, revealing new interactions between algae and bacteria that can help predict their growth. The technique opens up the possibility of forecasting blooms and taking measures to prevent them, saving millions in economic losses.
Researchers have identified a new receptor in Drosophila flies that detects bacterial infections and triggers an immune response. The discovery adds to our understanding of the insect's innate immunity and provides insights into the human immune system.
Researchers at the University of Oxford have found that dietary composition affects DNA sequences in parasites, revealing a previously hidden relationship between cellular metabolism and evolution. The study also shows that it is possible to predict diets based on genetic analysis.
Researchers at the University of Tennessee have identified 32 bacterial genes and 38 mouse genes that may help reduce malaria severity. This discovery could lead to more effective treatments, as it provides a limited number of genes to work with.
Research finds that people of African ancestry generally show stronger immune responses than Europeans, who display reduced immune responses due to selective pressure. The discovery suggests that European populations were partly shaped by the introduction of new genetic variants through interbreeding with Neanderthals.
Researchers found that African Americans have a stronger immune response to bacterial infections compared to Europeans, partly due to genetic differences. This response is linked to reduced susceptibility to autoimmune inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease and tuberculosis.
Researchers at Duke University have successfully delivered bacterial genes to human cells, enhancing electrical signaling and making cells more excitable. The technique could one day be used to treat cardiac arrhythmia, restore electrical functions to scarred tissues, or improve conductivity in genetic diseases.
Researchers at UCLA have identified the structure of a molecule toxic to disease-carrying mosquitoes, including those that transmit dengue fever and Zika virus. The toxin, BinAB, is lethal to Culex and Anopheles species but not Aedes, which carries Zika virus and dengue fever.
Cedars-Sinai has awarded nearly $700,000 to scientists developing new treatments and technologies for precision health. The goal is to tailor therapies and medications for specific patients based on their molecular makeups.
Researchers found that certain gut bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, metabolize gluten differently than beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus. This variation can either stimulate inflammation in individuals with genetic risk or detoxify gluten, potentially influencing celiac disease development.
Scientists have engineered Geobacter bacteria to produce extremely thin nanowires that are thousands of times thinner than a human hair, and are made from non-toxic natural proteins. The resulting wires can be used in medical sensors, military applications, and other electronic devices.
A new study suggests that gut bacteria in modern humans and apes coevolved for millions of years to help shape their immune systems. Researchers found that bacterial species distinct to one host were rarely transferred to other hosts, indicating unique patterns of evolution along with their hosts.
A new study reveals that certain bacteria in the human gut have been passed down over millions of years, guiding early intestine development and influencing immune systems. The researchers found genetic evidence that these bacteria split into distinct strains at around the same time as their hosts diverged from a common ancestor.
USF researchers found vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) bacteria in untreated wastewater after a 2014 sewer line break, posing a public health threat. The bacteria can transfer resistance to other strains, fueling the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.
Researchers studied ocean bacteria to understand how they find food and developed a mathematical model of their behavior. They found that fast-swimming bugs change direction frequently to target food, which could inspire the development of friendly bacteria engineered to diagnose and treat diseases like cancer.
A study published in the Journal of Bacteriology found that two genes, ArsS and ArsR, play a crucial role in regulating biofilm formation in H. pylori. The researchers created strains with mutations in these genes and observed that they formed thicker and more rapid biofilms.
A recent study published in Nature Medicine investigated the genetic control of immune cell responses to pathogens. Researchers found that cytokine production varied significantly between individuals and was influenced by six genomic regions. The study's findings suggest that genetic markers may predict infection risk, leading to new t...
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered a genetic link between an immune system gene and an increased risk of kidney disease, specifically IgA nephropathy. The study found that variations in the number of copies of the alpha-defensin genes were strongly correlated with the condition.
Scientists have identified good bacteria as vital to coral health, enabling corals to recover from bleaching caused by rising temperatures. The study highlights the importance of understanding bacterial communities on corals to ensure long-term survival.
A team of researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has identified dozens of genes that contribute to the rigidity and integrity of bacterial cell envelopes. These findings have significant implications for developing new antibiotics against Gram-negative bacteria, which are notoriously difficult to treat.
A transferrable gene for colistin resistance has been discovered in the United States, raising concerns about the emergence of truly pan-drug resistant bacteria. The finding is a significant public health concern, as it may render colistin, the last agent used to combat resistant bacteria, ineffective.
Research at Osaka University reveals Lypd8's role in preventing intestinal bacteria invasion, shedding new light on ulcerative colitis pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets. The study found that Lypd8 decreases in patients with ulcerative colitis, leading to increased susceptibility to inflammation.
A molecular pathway in brain helps halt spread of intestinal bacteria into bloodstream, strengthening gut barrier to prevent immune system activation. Researchers discover genetic switch Crtc plays key role in maintaining this barrier.
Researchers have identified a specific gene mutation in Staphylococcus aureus that reduces the bacterium's ability to destroy human immune cells, making it more likely to cause life-threatening diseases. This discovery provides new insights into the complex relationships between bacteria and their hosts.
Antibiotics disrupt gut microbiome communication with the immune system, impairing immune function. New approaches aim to restore balance by targeting infectious bacteria or modifying the microbiota, such as using bacteriocins, CRISPR-CAS9 gene editing, or fecal material transplants
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center discovered that genetic variants can prevent 'good' gut bacteria from functioning properly, contributing to the development of Crohn's disease. This study provides new insight into the interaction between genes and microorganisms in promoting health and preventing inflammation.
Researchers found that Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes are less able to transmit Zika virus, with fewer viral particles in their bodies and saliva. The approach is a sustainable control agent, piloted to combat Dengue virus transmission and potentially helping tackle the Zika epidemic.
Researchers at Duke University discovered a genetic circuit in bacteria that creates spatial patterns with proportional scaling, similar to those seen in animals. This finding suggests that timing cues may play a key role in pattern formation and development in other organisms.
Researchers discovered that TB bacteria trick immune cells into building up fat to feed them, rather than destroying them. This finding provides new insights into the mechanisms of TB infection and potential treatment approaches using antisense oligonucleotides.
Researchers at TSRI isolated a unique Treg cell from a mouse model of type 1 diabetes and discovered it originates in the thymus, giving rise to two functional states: an nTreg with active FoxP3 and a pre-nTreg without. This discovery opens new avenues for developing novel therapies to prevent autoimmune diseases.
Cornell University has received a $4.8 million USAID grant to improve genetically engineered eggplant production in Bangladesh and the Philippines. The project aims to increase farmers' livelihoods by reducing yield losses and improving food security.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis created a quality-control tool called PopQC to ensure hard-working cells dominate in microbial fermentation processes, resulting in threefold enhanced production of free fatty acid and tyrosine. This innovation addresses the universal problem of biological noise, which affects the work ...
The gut microbiome remains healthy due to functional redundancy among microbe species, which ensure stability in the face of constant disturbance. This study highlights the importance of understanding the role of these bacteria in the human body and their contribution to clinical symptoms.
A new study reveals that a more primitive form of photosynthesis evolved in much older bacteria than previously thought, dating back to around 3.5 billion years ago. This type of photosynthesis does not produce oxygen and uses molecules such as hydrogen or iron as fuel.
Researchers from KU Leuven found that frequent antibiotic use leads to the development of persister cells, which are dormant and tolerant to antibiotics. This phenomenon can lead to the recurrence of infections despite successful treatment.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have created a vaccine that offers high-level protection against melioidosis, a bacterial infection that causes pneumonia and sepsis. The new vaccine, which has been tested on mice, holds promise for preventing a disease that affects thousands in tropical regions and is often misdiagnosed.