Articles tagged with Bacterial Pathogens
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a way to control bacterial growth using chemical coatings that communicate with bacteria in their own language. The coatings can inhibit or promote bacterial growth as needed, making them useful for applications such as hospital surfaces and industrial equipment.
Researchers found that certain bacteria can trigger the virulence of plant pathogens by eavesdropping on signals from other species. This discovery could lead to new strategies for preventing crop diseases.
Researchers at the Wyss Institute have developed a bacterial sensor that retains long-term memory of gut inflammation, detecting tetrathionate up to six months after administration in a mouse model. This innovation could lead to non-invasive diagnosis and monitoring of conditions like IBD using probiotics.
Researchers at the University of Buffalo discovered that combining three ineffective antibiotics can eradicate two ESKAPE pathogens, including Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The triple combination treatments provide a new weapon in the fight against superbug infections.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a new method to label and visualize the sugar backbone of bacterial cell walls, also known as the 'cell jacket'. This breakthrough allows scientists to better understand how the immune system misidentifies beneficial bacteria, leading to chronic inflammatory diseases. By using th...
A novel signaling system in S. pneumoniae strains may control gene expression and virulence in co-colonizing strains, according to a study published in PLOS Pathogens.
Researchers found that banknotes harbor a diverse range of bacteria, including pathogens like E. coli and Vibrio cholera. The banknotes also contain higher amounts of antibiotic-resistance genes than other environmental samples, highlighting the potential for currency to pose a health risk.
Researchers have created a TaqMan-Based Multiplex real-time PCR detection system to rapidly diagnose sepsis, increasing the chance of targeting the correct agent and avoiding antibiotic misuse. The test detects 10 frequent bacterial pathogens from blood samples and can even identify pathogens in blood culture-negative cases.
Researchers sequenced genomes of over 1,700 strains, discovering an especially strong group of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in a city of six million people. The strain, clone type 307, has been identified in parts of Europe and other continents but not previously documented as a common cause of infections in one city.
Researchers have identified three mutations that enable TB pathogens to develop rapidly in immunocompromised individuals. These emerging strains require new treatment approaches, including genetically engineered vaccines that consider a patient's immune status and pathogen virulence features.
Using a genetic 'toolkit,' scientists observe unprecedented interaction between Brucella and Legionella pneumophila, improving infectious potential of Brucella. The technique creates light-emitting bacteria for easy observation, identification in the lab.
A team of researchers has discovered an inflammatory signaling platform that cells use to defend against Salmonella infections, which may lead to the development of new antibiotic treatments. The study found that protein chains relay pro-inflammatory signals to trigger degradation of bacteria and restrict their proliferation.
Researchers have developed a new method to generate diverse molecules that could serve as vaccine adjuvants, improving immunogenic response. The approach uses bacterial enzymatic combinatorial chemistry to create novel lipid A structures with potential adjuvant activity.
A recent Drexel University study found that most Philadelphia home kitchens have evidence of pest infestations and improper raw meat storage, with bacteria-laden sponges being a common issue. The study also revealed that refrigeration temperatures were often above recommended levels, allowing bacteria to grow rapidly.
The ResistoMap tool helps identify national trends in antibiotic use and control antibiotic resistance globally. By analyzing human gut microbiota, the map reveals correlations between antibiotic use patterns and resistome variations, shedding light on the global battle against antibiotic resistance.
Research found that plague bacteria Yersinia pestis can survive within amoebae, using proteins to avoid being digested. This discovery has implications for predicting disease re-emergence and may lead to new strategies for controlling the spread of plague.
Researchers discovered a bacterium that produces antibiotics to protect beetle eggs from fungal infections. The bacteria also can harm plants when transferred, highlighting the complex relationships between microbes and their hosts.
Researchers found that a harmful bacterium in the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients produces substances that enhance the growth of other bacteria, known as streptococci, which can inhibit the harmful bacterium's biofilm. Streptococci adhesins play a crucial role in this process.
Researchers review key two-component systems in pathogens causing CF lung disease, finding potential for histidine kinase inhibitors to treat infections. TCS inhibitors alone or combined with existing treatments show promise for addressing antibiotic resistance in CF patients.
Researchers are using gene-editing platform Crispr-Cas9 to investigate the poisoning power of ancient silver remedy. They aim to create effective antimicrobials and avoid antimicrobial resistance pitfalls.
Scientists develop synthetic mucus to control pathogenic bacteria and maintain healthy microbial balance in the body. The study reveals mucins can help prevent diseases by reducing dominance of harmful species.
Researchers develop nanosponges that capture and inactivate bacterial toxins, reducing cellular damage and disease severity. The new approach shows promise as a treatment for severe or antibiotic-resistant streptococcal infections.
Yale researchers have developed a 'genetic scalpel' to regulate gene activity in the gut microbiome, enabling precise control over bacterial communities. This breakthrough tool may help understand the microbiome's impact on health and disease, including infectious diseases and behavioral disorders.
A new study reveals that newborns are more prone to intestinal infections due to underdeveloped gut microbiomes. Colonization with healthy adult microbes significantly reduces disease in infected infant mice, highlighting a potential way to boost their immune system.
A mouse study reveals that Clostridia bacteria provide key protection against infection, in addition to aiding digestion. Newborn mice lack these beneficial bacteria, making them more vulnerable to pathogens. The findings suggest that the introduction of protective bacteria may hold promise for preventing gut infections in human newborns.
Scientists have developed a new drug, PEG-2S, that combats two priority pathogens with limited treatment options. The drug specifically targets the NQR pump, preventing proliferation of harmful bacteria like Chlamydia trachomatis, and is highly targeted without toxic effects on normal cells.
Nematodes, microscopic worms that control diseases in humans and kill insects, secrete deadly cocktails of proteins to infect hosts. Researchers developed a method to work with nematodes outside their host, identifying 472 proteins involved in parasitism.
Researchers at the University of Maryland have identified how Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses tension-activated membrane channels to resist osmotic downshocks. The bacterium's ability to survive sudden changes in water content is crucial for its persistence in various environments.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered that vaccine-induced IgA antibodies 'enchain' bacteria in the intestine, forming clumps that prevent disease and genetic exchange of resistant genes. This approach could lead to a new strategy for intestinal infections, including farm animal vaccination and potential human applications.
Researchers discover bacteriophages that can effectively reduce bacterial levels and improve health in mice infected with antibiotic-resistant 'superbugs.' The study's findings suggest phages could be a promising alternative to antibiotics, with potential benefits including fewer side effects and the ability to evolve against resistance.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison study reveals that certain amoebas called dictyostelids can penetrate biofilms and devour bacteria, including multi-drug resistant species. This finding has potential applications in combating antibiotic-resistant infections, such as bacterial keratitis and fire blight.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have created lysibodies, human-germ hybrid molecules that target specific carbohydrate molecules on bacterial cell surfaces, helping the immune system fight off microbial pathogens. The approach shows promise for treating life-threatening infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria like MRSA.
Researchers found that gonorrhea infects the female reproductive tract by breaking connections between cells that normally form a protective barrier. The study uses tissue samples from human endocervix and reveals how Neisseria gonorrhoeae promotes activation of non-muscle myosin II to induce cell shedding and penetration.
Researchers from the Netherlands Institute of Ecology discovered that micro-organisms, including bacteria and fungi, use terpenes to hold conversations. Terpenes are the most popular chemical medium for communication on the planet.
Researchers discovered a link between indolepropionic acid and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. A diet rich in whole grain products and dietary fibre boosts indolepropionic acid production, promoting insulin secretion by pancreatic beta cells.
The Laboratory of Medical Zoology at UMass Amherst is conducting pathogen tests on thousands of ticks collected from 47 sites across the country as part of the National Ecological Observatory Network project. The tests will help track changes in tick-borne disease surveillance and research over 30 years.
A recent study published in PLOS Pathogens found that lactate produced in the upper throat can initiate the dispersal of Neisseria meningitidis microcolonies, allowing the bacteria to invade the body and cause meningitis. The researchers suggest that high concentrations of lactate serve as a signaling molecule for bacterial dispersal.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new method for detecting foodborne pathogens like E. coli using specialized droplets that can bind to bacterial proteins, allowing for fast and affordable testing with smartphones.
Researchers found a natural way to enhance antibiotic action by combining maple syrup extract with commonly used antibiotics. This approach works on various bacterial strains, including E. coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, allowing for up to 90% less antibiotic use while maintaining effectiveness.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered non-antibiotic antivirulence compounds that prevent disease-causing toxins from forming in gram-positive bacteria. These compounds, such as F19, have shown effectiveness against various types of superbugs and may enable the use of existing antibiotics in combination therapy.
Researchers found bacteria and fungi in killer whales that cause disease in humans and land-based animals, including Salmonella and antibiotic-resistant strains. The study provides insights into whale health and reveals potential pathogens in their environment.
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.
Exposure to Gardnerella vaginalis, a common vaginal bacterium, awakens dormant E. coli and triggers recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in mice. The study suggests that G. vaginalis damage to bladder tissue can lead to reactivation of E. coli infection.
CARB-X is investing $24 million to support 11 biotech companies in developing new life-saving antibacterials and diagnostics. The pipeline includes three potential new classes of small molecule antibiotics, four non-traditional products, and seven new molecular targets against Gram-negative bacteria.
A new study found that a type of vaginal bacteria, Gardnerella vaginalis, can trigger recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) by damaging bladder cells and allowing E. coli to multiply. The researchers suggest that this may be why some women experience UTIs after having sex.
A Purdue University study reveals Listeria monocytogenes can live within romaine lettuce tissue throughout plant growth stages. Exposure to the bacteria can lead to infection in as little as 30 minutes, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.
Researchers at ETH Zurich found that inflammation triggers the transfer of phage genes to Salmonella bacteria, increasing their pathogenicity. Vaccination can prevent this process, alleviating the risk of phage release.
Researchers from the University of Würzburg discovered that Chlamydia trachomatis influences mitochondria to prevent programmed cell death, allowing the bacteria to replicate. The study found that miR-30c-5p microRNA is increased in infected cells, downregulating tumor suppressor protein p53 and promoting mitochondrial division
Researchers studied how Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus tracks down prey using high-resolution video microscopy. The study found that the bacterial predator uses hydrodynamic flow fields generated by its own swimming movements and those of its prey to bring them in close proximity, increasing the chances of a successful attack.
A new theory suggests that sexual reproduction evolved as a way to resist disease-causing microbes and adapt to constantly changing environments. Researchers used computer simulations to demonstrate the benefits of sex in nematode worms co-evolving with a highly pathogenic bacterium, providing evidence for the Red Queen theory.
New UBC research reveals how Burkholderia cenocepacia bacteria interact and evolve in cystic fibrosis patients. The study identifies common genes among strains, paving the way for targeted treatments.
Chinese scientists have developed a fluorogenic probe, CVB-1, to detect the activity of multidrug-resistant carbapenemases in an assay system. This technique allows for rapid detection of antibiotic resistance activity by fluorescence, enabling specific treatment strategies and reducing the overuse of ineffective drugs.
Researchers found that antibiotics like trimethoprim induce a stress response in bacteria, protecting them from acidic damage. This cross-protection mechanism increases the survival chances of bacteria exposed to antibiotics and other environmental stresses.
Researchers at NIMBioS developed a more sensitive test for detecting paratuberculosis in cattle, shedding light on the early stages of the disease. The new macrophage-based assay produces reliable diagnoses and could be a game-changer for controlling the spread of the disease.
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.
A new study in mice reveals that gut inflammation enables bacterial viruses to infect and replicate within bacterial pathogens. Administering a vaccine that reduces gut inflammation may help treat some infections by hindering gene transfer and the evolution of pathogens.
Researchers found that antibiotic-treated honeybees were half as likely to survive, with gut microbes disrupted and harmful bacteria increased. The study suggests that overuse of antibiotics may contribute to colony collapse and has implications for human health.
The study reveals that H. pylori uses a pH-responsive mechanism to detach from old cells before reaching the gastric acid, allowing it to rapidly recycle the infection. This adaptive mechanism enables only the best-fit bacterial cells to survive and fortify the chronic infection.
CSU researchers create affordable and rapid testing systems for water and food-borne pathogens, aiming to reduce expensive follow-up tests. The new system uses enzymes associated with fecal indicator bacteria, detecting harmful bacteria within four to 12 hours.
The newly launched GeoHealth journal by AGU and Wiley focuses on the growing connection between Earth sciences and human health. Researchers are discussing impacts, risks, and opportunities associated with human health and disease. The journal publishes original research, reviews, and commentaries on environmental and health issues.