Pathogens from the sea
Researchers identified specialized 'adventurer' cells in Vibrio parahaemolyticus that facilitate its dissemination and prevalence. These cells enable the bacterium to colonize new habitats and spread disease globally.
Bacterial Pathogens
Research on disease-causing bacteria and how they spread. Covers waterborne bacteria, Lyme disease ecology, pathogenic genetics, and biofilm treatments.
Bacteria must be 'stressed out' to divide
Scientists discovered that bacterial cell division requires both mechanical and biological processes. The study found that a build-up of mechanical stress in the cell wall is necessary before division occurs, and can even be triggered by physical pressure.
Resistance to last resort drug arose in patient over 3 weeks
Researchers discovered a single nucleotide mutation in P. aeruginosa that caused rapid resistance to ceftolozane-tazobactam and partial resensitization to carbapenems and piperacilline-tazobactam. This finding may enable the use of these antibiotics in treating extremely drug-resistant P. aeruginosa cases.
SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateOct 21, 2019
Lifestyle is a threat to gut bacteria: Ötzi proves it
A study on Ötzi's DNA found a decrease in Prevotella copri, a common human gut microbe, in Westernized populations. The discovery suggests that Westernization may have contributed to the loss of beneficial bacteria, with significant implications for public health.
A new approach to tackle superbugs
A novel approach to tackle superbugs has been discovered using nanocapsules made of natural ingredients, which can prevent bacteria from attaching to stomach cells. The research aims to reduce antibiotic-resistant strains and is a potential preventative measure.
Study reveals how mucus tames microbes
A new study from MIT reveals that glycans in mucus can disarm opportunistic pathogens and prevent infections. The researchers found that these sugar molecules can regulate the behavior of microbes, preventing them from communicating with each other and forming infectious biofilms.
'Tricked' bacteria open new pathways to antimicrobial treatments
Researchers develop technique to trick bacteria into revealing hundreds of holes in their cell walls, making them vulnerable to drugs. This could lead to more effective or antibiotic-free treatments that target these pores.
Nanostructures help to reduce the adhesion of bacteria
Researchers found that nanostructured surfaces reduce bacterial adhesion, making it harder for Staphylococcus aureus bacteria to form biofilms and resist antibiotics. The study suggests optimizing surface topography can minimize bacterial attachment and prevent biofilm formation.
Compound in breast milk fights harmful bacteria
Researchers identified glycerol monolaurate in human breast milk as a compound fighting pathogenic bacteria while allowing beneficial bacteria to thrive. Human breast milk has more than 200 times the amount of GML found in cows' milk and infant formula.
Engineered viruses could protect soldiers, fight antibiotic resistance
Researchers have developed engineered viruses to target specific strains of bacteria, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance. The new approach could provide a targeted alternative to traditional antibiotics.
Bacteria trapped -- and terminated -- by graphene filter
A graphene filter developed by Rice University scientists can capture and sanitize airborne pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The filter uses Joule heating to kill trapped microbes and their toxic byproducts, potentially reducing hospital infections.
New study is 'chilling commentary' on future of antibiotics
A new analysis found that the current annual US sales of new antibiotics to treat carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is $101 million, significantly short of the needed $1 billion. This shortfall threatens the financial viability of new antibiotic development and may lead to reduced treatment options for patients. Researchers...
The cholera bacterium can steal up to 150 genes in one go
Vibrio cholerae uses its type VI secretion system (T6SS) to compete with other bacteria and acquire new genetic material, leading to rapid evolution and pathogen emergence. The bacterium can steal up to 150,000 nucleic acid base pairs, or roughly 150 genes, in a single attack.
Weak spot in pathogenic bacteria
Scientists have elucidated the structure of the ClpX-ClpP proteolytic complex, a key to developing innovative antibiotics that target bacterial degradation processes. The complex's unique mechanism of action has considerable innovation potential in the fight against pathogenic bacteria.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateOct 4, 2019
New bioinformatics hub at UChicago enables next-gen infectious disease research
The Bacterial and Viral Bioinformatics Resource Center combines two independent resources to support richer scientific data and more powerful analytic tools. The hub will provide rapid access to genomic datasets, computational tools, and artificial intelligence techniques to analyze data and make predictions.
Researchers discover a new defensive mechanism against bacterial wound infections
A team of researchers from Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin has identified a new endogenous mechanism that enables the skin to actively kill bacteria. The discovery involves mast cells and interleukin 6, which stimulate the release of antimicrobial peptides that target bacteria.
SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 4, 2019
Sentinels in the mouth
Researchers found special sensory cells in the gums that detect irritants and bacteria, triggering an immune response to control oral microbiome. The discovery could lead to personalized dental treatments against gum disease.
Warming impedes a coral defense, but hungry fish enhance it
A new study found that coral defenses are compromised by warming, but reef conservation and certain fish species, like the Acropora millepora, can enhance them. The research used potions from protected and heavily fished reefs to test their effectiveness against a pathogen.
Protozoans and pathogens make for an infectious mix
A team of researchers discovered that single-celled organisms like protozoa can protect pathogenic bacteria and prime them for human infection. The bacteria are expelled into the environment after being ingested by protozoa and become more infectious in humans, potentially threatening public health.
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria spread by washing machine
Researchers at the University of Bonn found that conventional washing machines in hospitals and potentially households can transmit antibiotic-resistant bacteria to newborns through clothing. The study highlights the need for higher temperatures during laundry to prevent transmission of dangerous pathogens.
New research reveals soil microbes play a key role in plant disease resistance
Researchers discovered that certain soil microbes can make plants more resistant to an aggressive disease, such as bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum. The study found that rare taxa and pathogen-suppressing bacteria are associated with healthy plant microbiomes.
Evolution experiment: Specific immune response of beetles adapts to bacteria
Researchers found that flour beetles' immune system adapts to specific bacteria after repeated exposure, leading to improved specificity and survival chances. The study's results could have implications for human innate immunity and may lead to new strategies for combating pests like the red flour beetle.
Breakthrough in understanding enzymes that make antibiotic for drug-resistant pathogen
Researchers at University of Warwick have made a breakthrough in understanding the functions and structures of key enzymes in assembling an antibiotic with activity against Acinetobacter baumannii, a highly resistant pathogen. Understanding these enzymes could enable more effective versions of the antibiotic to be created.
Green tea could hold the key to reducing antibiotic resistance
Scientists at the University of Surrey discovered that green tea's EGCG can restore antibiotic activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The study found that combining EGCG with aztreonam significantly reduced bacterial numbers and improved survival rates in infected larvae.
Researchers find way to kill pathogen resistant to antibiotics
Biochemists at Nagoya University have found a way to selectively kill Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria using a hijacked haem acquisition system that targets other dangerous bacteria, providing an alternative treatment strategy for resistant infections.
Babies' gut bacteria affected by delivery method, Baby Biome project shows
A large-scale study found that vaginally born babies have different gut bacteria than those delivered by Caesarean. Researchers discovered that the mode of delivery impacted the gut microbiome, with vaginal delivery promoting mother's gut bacteria and Caesarean deliveries resulting in hospital-borne bacteria.
'Death Star' bacterial structures that inject proteins can be tapped to deliver drugs
Researchers at San Diego State University have discovered a beneficial bacterium that produces nanoscale syringe-like structures called the Death Star, which can deliver proteins to target cells and tissues in humans. This discovery could lead to novel therapeutics and vaccines for diseases such as cancer.
Genomic migration analysis shows antibiotic resistance moving from humans to animals
A study by Vincent Richards and colleagues found that antibiotic-resistant genes are being transmitted from humans into animal species, including livestock, companion animals, and wildlife. This reverse zoonosis is facilitated by high bacterial genome plasticity, allowing bacteria to adapt quickly to environmental changes.
The effects of variation in T6SS and bacteria on competition in host environment
Researchers found that strains predicted to be more sensitive to T6SS were able to coexist with aggressor strains, challenging the traditional assumption of a 'winner-take-all' result. The study suggests that genetics and environmental factors play a significant role in determining competition outcomes.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateSep 17, 2019
Sweet success of parasite survival could also be its downfall
Researchers found that Leishmania parasites protect themselves from starvation by making an unusual carbohydrate reserve called mannogen, which enables their survival within human hosts. This discovery provides a new understanding of the parasite's metabolism and could lead to the development of new therapies for Leishmaniasis.
Antibiotic resistance surges in dolphins, mirroring humans
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University and Georgia Aquarium have found a significant increase in antibiotic resistance in bottlenose dolphins, with the prevalence of resistance to at least one antibiotic reaching 88.2 percent. The study's findings suggest that the isolates originated from human activities or discharges, highlight...
Multidrug resistance: Not as recent as we thought
Researchers from Osaka University found that a relatively ancient Haemophilus influenzae drug efflux pump AcrB confers resistance to antibiotics similar to its more evolved counterparts. The study highlights the evolution and mechanism of multidrug efflux systems, suggesting a 'one size fits all' approach is not suitable.
Corn one step closer to bacterial leaf streak resistance
A new study has identified corn varieties with moderate resistance to bacterial leaf streak, a foliar disease that can cause up to 20% yield losses. The research also found genetic regions associated with increased levels of resistance and highlighted the importance of host resistance in controlling this disease.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalCrop Science·DateSep 11, 2019
The vagina monocultures
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have developed a universal screening approach for vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) donors to ensure only beneficial microbes are transferred. The pilot study found that 35% of participants might be eligible VMT donors, and the success rate may depend on a small number of willing 'super donors'.
Use of antibiotics in preemies has lasting, potentially harmful effects
A study found that premature babies' gut microbiomes remain disrupted after antibiotic treatment, leading to an increased risk of disease and health problems later in life. The research suggests that minimizing antibiotic use in preemies may help prevent these issues.
Source water key to bacterial water safety in remote Northern Australia
Researchers found high levels of bacterial DNA and opportunistic pathogens in source water from remote bores in Northern Australia. The study suggests that managing groundwater quality is crucial for ensuring safe drinking water supplies in these communities.
Novel approach leads to potential sepsis prevention in burn patients
Researchers discovered a potential new treatment for preventing sepsis in burn patients by using the secretions of probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus gasseri to combat antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The study found that applying these secretions to the wound inhibited bacterial growth and prevented biofilm development.
SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Medical Microbiology·DateSep 3, 2019
Common stomach bacteria is attracted to bleach
Researchers found that Helicobacter pylori is attracted to bleach, relying on a protein called TlpD to navigate to sites of inflammation in the stomach. This attraction enables the bacterium to turn the body's defenses against it and colonize inflamed tissue.
How bees live with bacteria
A research group at University of Würzburg is focusing on the role of bacteria in bee health, finding that environmental factors have a stronger influence on solitary bees than previously thought. The study highlights the need for further research to combat bee mortality.
An innovative new diagnostic for Lyme disease
Researchers at Arizona State University describe an innovative diagnostic technique that pinpoints molecular signatures of Lyme disease with high accuracy. The method, using a multi-platform approach, uncovers six potential biomarkers for early identification of the disease.
SourceArizona State University·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateAug 26, 2019
Bacterial sex drives evolution of microbes to conquer and colonize the gut
A pioneer study published in PNAS reveals that bacterial sex plays a pivotal role in the evolution of the mammalian microbiome. Horizontal gene transfer, facilitated by temperate bacteriophages, is the primary mechanism driving bacterial evolution in a healthy gut.
SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 22, 2019
In cystic fibrosis, lungs feed deadly bacteria
A new study suggests that Pseudomonas aeruginosa thrives in cystic fibrosis lungs due to an abundance of succinate, a byproduct of cellular metabolism. This excess succinate fuels the growth of the bacteria and promotes chronic infections.
SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 21, 2019
Foodborne pathogen sheltered by harmless bacteria that support biofilm formation
Researchers at Penn State found that harmless bacteria form biofilms that shelter Listeria monocytogenes in apple-packing facilities. This discovery may lead to alternative strategies for controlling foodborne pathogens.
Study reveals E. coli's secret weapon in launching infections
Researchers discovered that EspG protein prevents E. coli from forming pedestals in intestinal cells, allowing the bacteria to anchor and grow. This finding offers new possibilities for treating diarrheal diseases caused by pathogenic strains of E. coli.
Potential treatments for citrus greening
Researchers at Stanford University have discovered a potential treatment for citrus greening, a devastating disease affecting the US citrus industry. By studying a symbiotic bacterium, they found 130 compounds that can inhibit the spread of the disease without harming beneficial bacteria.
Paper filter from local algae could save millions of lives in Bangladesh
A team of scientists has developed a locally growing algae species that can be used to extract cellulose nanofibers, forming paper sheets with tailored pore size for effective virus and bacteria removal. The filter has demonstrated excellent efficiency in lab and real-life tests.
Researchers show how probiotics benefit vaginal health
Researchers have identified three genes from a probiotic Lactobacillus species as critical for mediating adhesion to the vaginal epithelium. This is likely crucial for how this species benefits vaginal health.
SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateAug 16, 2019
Each cell is a small world: the microbiome of ciliates has been studied
Researchers investigate the microbiome of Stentor coeruleus and find a distinct bacterial community associated with the ciliate. The study reveals that different ciliates can host unique bacterial populations, highlighting the importance of further research into protistan microbiomes.
Revealed: How E. coli knows how to cause the worst possible infection
Researchers reveal E. coli's ability to detect low oxygen levels in the large intestine, allowing it to establish infection and produce harmful toxins. The discovery could lead to prevention strategies by blocking oxygen sensing, potentially limiting infection and avoiding drug resistance.
SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 16, 2019
As whooping cough evolves, WVU researcher studies how to maintain vaccine's effectiveness
A WVU researcher is working to preserve pertussis vaccines' effectiveness by exploring ways to improve their recognition of emerging bacterial strains. By incorporating iron-acquisition proteins into the vaccine, Barbier hopes to boost its protection.
Fishing leads to investigation of environmental changes in waterways
A three-site study in the Blue Marsh watershed found seasonal differences in microbial populations, with increases in warmer months and higher levels of nitrate and phosphate. The researchers used Biolog Ecoplates to test water samples, revealing changes in bacterial counts and chemical profiles linked to human activities.
New study links high-fat diet and gut bacteria to insulin resistance
Researchers discovered a connection between high-fat diets and insulin resistance through gut bacteria, specifically the protein IgA produced by B cells in the gut. A high fat diet weakens the gut immune system, leading to inflammation and worsening blood sugar levels.
Monash University study finds way to disarm dangerous bacteria
Researchers at Monash University have discovered an antibiotic that can prevent the life-threatening diarrhea caused by C. difficile. The treatment strategy could also counter diseases caused by other similar bacteria, including anthrax. Studies show that cephamycins can reduce spore production of C. difficile and Bacillus cereus.
Diarrhea-causing bacteria adapted to spread in hospitals
Researchers discovered that Clostridium difficile is evolving into two separate species, with one group highly adapted to spread in hospitals. The emerging species, named Clade A, has evolved genes that metabolize simple sugars, allowing it to thrive on Western sugar-rich diets and evade common hospital disinfectants.
Research on cholera adds to understanding of the social life of bacteria
New research from Dartmouth College uncovers how cholera bacteria change shape to aid short-term survival in nutrient-poor environments. This strategy supports the growth of bacterial communities and allows pathogens to compete effectively.
Novel strategy uncovers potential to control widespread soilborne pathogens
A team of scientists analyzed microbial communities within sclerotia of soilborne fungal pathogens, discovering specific bacterial communities that produce volatile compounds with the potential to reduce pathogen viability. Combining different beneficial microorganisms can effectively counteract pathogens.
Blood clotting factors may help fight multi-drug resistant superbugs
Researchers found that blood coagulation factors VII, IX, and X can hydrolyze lipopolysaccharides on the bacterial cell envelope, effectively killing Gram-negative bacteria. These proteins may offer new strategies for combating multi-drug resistant superbugs.
Researchers discover blocking key mineral uptake could prevent gonorrhea infection
A study by Georgia State University researchers found that blocking the bacterial pathogen's ability to uptake zinc can prevent gonorrhea infection. The study provides insight into how to block growth of this pathogen and could move gonorrhea vaccine development forward.
Self-sterilizing polymer proves effective against drug-resistant pathogens
Researchers developed an elastic polymer with broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, effectively killing viruses and drug-resistant bacteria. The polymer's unique molecular architecture attracts water to kill microbes within five minutes, making it a potential solution for hospital-acquired infections.
Precision editing of gut bacteria reduces cancer in mice
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered that precision editing the gut microbiome can reduce inflammation-associated colorectal cancer in mice. The study suggests targeting metabolic pathways specific to intestinal inflammation could prevent or reduce cancer risk.