Articles tagged with Bacterial Pathogens
Researchers at UCSB have discovered a key role for rearrangement hotspots (Rhs) proteins in bacterial intercellular competition. These proteins enable certain bacteria to compete with members of their own species by delivering toxic tips into neighboring cells, leading to cell death.
Researchers at Texas Biomed discovered that ten FDA-approved drugs showed activity against multiple bacteria and 24 against multiple viruses. Chloroquine, used to treat malaria, was found to be particularly effective against both anthrax and Ebola viruses.
Mercyhurst University has acquired a DNA sequencer, a multi-faceted machine that can identify over one million bacterial or viral species in a gram of soil or drop of water. The machine will be used for various university-driven research projects, including studying bacterial and viral pathogens in Lake Erie waters.
A scissor-like enzyme discovered by UT Southwestern researchers can cut off fatty acids from proteins, disabling the immune system's communication infrastructure and allowing bacteria to grow and survive. This discovery provides insight into severe bacterial infectious diseases and cancer, and may lead to the development of new treatme...
Researchers found that bacteria use phospholipases to degrade competitor cell membranes without harming their own, revealing a new mechanism for interbacterial competition. This discovery opens the way for developing antibacterial drugs that harness this natural defense.
Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center discovered that a common sexually transmitted infection-causing parasite cultivates bacteria beneficial to it, changing the thinking about which comes first–infection or bacteria. The study found two unique bacterial communities strongly associated with trichomonas infection.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new method to kill deadly pathogenic bacteria, including listeria, using nature-inspired nanobiotechnology. The coating kills listeria on contact, even at high concentrations, without affecting other bacteria.
Researchers at UC Davis have identified a key protein pathway that distinguishes between harmless and harmful bacteria. The innate immune system recognizes specific sensing proteins that detect invading pathogens, triggering an alarm response to mobilize immune functions.
Researchers suggest a more flexible understanding of the immune system's interaction with microbes, considering both pathogens and beneficial bacteria. The human body hosts ten times more bacterial cells than human cells, which play crucial roles in improving body functions.
Whole genome sequencing reveals that drug-resistant bacterial infections can be transmitted from animals to humans, highlighting the role of livestock as a potential reservoir of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The study confirms animal-to-human transmission of MRSA, a disease-causing bacterium with resistance to methicillin.
Researchers found 21 genomic regions with a 'signature' for both inflammatory disease susceptibility and natural selection. These variants rose in frequency to help protect humans against viruses and bacteria, but now increase the risk of autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Lyme disease bacteria rely on manganese to make essential enzymes, evading immune system defenses that starve pathogens of iron. This discovery opens the door to new therapies targeting manganese, potentially improving disease detection and treatment.
A recent study has identified a previously unknown cell type in the urethra of mice, which expresses cholinergic receptors and may serve as sentinels to detect hazardous substances. This finding could provide insight into cellular interaction and defensive measures against pathogens, potentially preventing urinary tract infections.
A new study suggests that flagellin plays a crucial role in activating the body's natural defenses against urinary tract infections (UTIs). The research found that motile Escherichia coli isolates activate NF-κB signaling pathways, indicating a key role for flagellin in up-regulating host innate defences.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School identified a novel lipopolysaccharide modification that contributes to F. tularensis lethality and developed a live attenuated vaccine strain. Additionally, scientists studied the dynamics of plague in an urban environment, finding that while port cities are susceptible to outbreaks, they may not b...
A new study by UCSF researchers reveals that T cells gather together and share information, helping to mount a coordinated response to invading pathogens. The discovery sheds light on the mechanism behind vaccine effectiveness, which relies on T-cell aggregation to form long-term memory.
A new low-cost nano-biosensor can detect Listeria monocytogenes, a foodborne pathogen that causes listeriosis. The biosensor uses gold nanoparticles and has the potential for commercial development.
A single point mutation has been identified in Listeria monocytogenes that enhances its ability to grow at refrigeration temperatures and in high salt concentrations. This finding raises significant concerns for food safety, as the mutated strain could become even more formidable.
Researchers found that bacterial communities on roller derby players predict team membership and become significantly more similar when opposing teams compete. The study highlights the potential for contact sports to influence our microbiome, with implications for healthcare and disease transmission.
A University of Granada researcher proposes that antibiotic abuse forces bacteria to take up DNA from resistant strains, leading to increased resistance. This stress-induced uptake can also make non-resistant bacteria more virulent, exacerbating the problem.
Researchers successfully directly observed microorganisms feeding on intestinal mucosa using NanoSIMS technology, identifying Akkermansia muciniphilia and Bacteroides acidifaciens as key players. The study provides new insights into the gut microbiota's role in inflammatory bowel disease.
A recent UCLA study reveals that certain bacteria, including those causing tuberculosis, can pretend to be viruses when infecting humans. This allows them to hijack the immune response and hide out inside cells. The findings may also explain how viral infections like the flu make us more susceptible to bacterial infections like pneumonia.
Researchers found that reintroducing normal microbial diversity can eliminate vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) from the intestinal tracts of mice and potentially humans. The study suggests that certain bacterial species, such as Barnesiella, play a key role in preventing colonization by VRE.
Researchers identified diverse microbial communities in cattle manure, with some bacteria present in beef cattle not found in dairy cows. Diet and tillage management also affected pathogen transport in field runoff, highlighting the importance of soil management for food safety.
Researchers have uncovered the atomic structure of dermcidin, a natural antibiotic that is highly efficient against tuberculosis germs and other dangerous bugs. This discovery could lead to the development of new antibiotics that control multi-resistant bacteria.
Vanderbilt investigators have identified the structural features of calprotectin's two metal binding sites and demonstrated that manganese binding is key to its antibacterial action. The study could guide efforts to develop novel antibacterials that limit a microbe's access to metals.
Researchers at Arizona State University's Biodesign Institute are using the ISS to study the effects of microgravity on disease-causing organisms. Their findings indicate that spaceflight can increase the virulence of pathogens like Salmonella, while also altering gene expression and pathogenesis-related responses in other microorganisms.
Microbiologist Cheryl Nickerson is using the ISS platform to study the effects of microgravity on disease-causing organisms, aiming to unveil novel cellular and molecular mechanisms related to infectious disease progression.
Research on ancient human skeletons reveals negative changes in oral bacteria due to dietary shifts, including the introduction of farming and processed sugar. The study provides a new record of dietary impacts and health changes over time.
The study reveals that Streptococcus pneumoniae's enzyme DpnA protects foreign DNA, allowing pathogenicity island exchange between bacteria. This mechanism promotes genome diversification and helps pneumococcal virulence.
Researchers from Berkeley Lab and Max Planck Institute analyze unique microbial motor, revealing a dynamic play among its components. The study found that the archaellum consists of two parts, with a globular C terminal domain connected to a more variable N terminal domain.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center identified a defect in bladder immune memory that hampers a timely attack against bacterial infections. The study found that mast cells produce an immune-suppressing molecule, leading to a lack of antibody response and stifling immune memory.
Researchers found that Bacteroidetes were more predominant in fine dust, while Proteobacteria were associated with coarse sediments. This knowledge can inform management practices to minimize damage to soils caused by wind erosion.
Contact with captive sea turtles poses a risk of exposure to toxic contaminants and zoonotic pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The study highlights the importance of awareness among health-care professionals and the public to prevent and control the spreading of sea turtle-related disease.
A new soft x-ray electrostatic precipitator device effectively captures and kills airborne pathogenic bacteria, viruses, ultrafine particles, and allergens. It has multiple potential applications, including indoor air purification and protection of vulnerable populations.
Campylobacter balances two systems to prioritize finding food, suggesting the 'need to feed' is its primary concern. This understanding may help prevent future disease by targeting the bacteria's navigation systems.
A study by USDA scientists found that treating poultry cages with heated forced air at 122 degrees Fahrenheit can eliminate detectable Campylobacter levels on cage flooring. This method is more effective than static heat or unheated flowing air in reducing bacterial cross-contamination.
Researchers discovered a signaling pathway in macrophages that detects escaping bacteria and activates an enzyme to trigger self-destruction, protecting against lethal infections. The caspase-11 detection pathway protects mice from infection with Burkholderia species, including the potentially deadly B. pseudomallei.
Researchers found that N. meningitidis adhesion to human microvessels leads to endothelial inflammatory response, clotting, thrombosis, congestion, and vascular leak, resulting in purpuric rash development. The study's findings challenge previous assumptions about the role of circulating bacteria and LPS release in vascular damage.
A bacterial supplement containing lipid-producing Rhodococcus opacus increased circulating triglycerides in weanling pigs, providing an alternative source of energy. This could help strengthen the immune system and fight off infections more efficiently during a critical stage of development.
A Kansas State University-led study reveals a new protein that affects how cells in the innate immune system function and protect humans against invading bacteria. The researchers characterized a glycosyltransferase activity protein that targets GAPDH function to inhibit NF-kappaB activation, leading to enhanced disease susceptibility.
Researchers have created a synthetic stool called RePOOPulate to cure C. difficile infections, offering a safer alternative to existing treatments. The artificial poop was tested on two patients with chronic infections and showed promising results in eliminating the infection.
The bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis causes excess IL-10 production, inhibiting T-cell function and leading to infection. Early intervention is crucial to prevent chronic periodontal disease.
Researchers identified the mechanism by which Staphylococcus aureus colonizes nasal passages, finding that Clumping factor B (ClfB) binds to skin protein loricrin with high affinity. This interaction is crucial for successful colonization and opens new avenues for developing therapeutic strategies.
Researchers discovered that neutrophil membrane tethers act like slings to anchor the cell and maintain control during high-speed blood flow. This unique structure enables neutrophils to navigate through narrow venules without being swept away, allowing them to effectively present their antigen-sensing ligands at the infection site.
Scientists at Max Planck Institute discover that EF-P plays a crucial role in protein production of pathogenic bacteria, leading to the development of new specific antibiotics. Intestinal bacteria lacking EF-P are less fit and not as virulent.
Scientists at Rochester Institute of Technology have published the whole genome sequence of three bacteria associated with Jamaican sugarcane and Riesling grapevines. The genomes reveal genetic instructions that make up individual organisms, providing data for the prevention or management of diseases afflicting crops.
Researchers at Lund University discovered that antibodies in the immune system can be turned around by certain bacteria, affecting their recognition and neutralization. The study shows that this phenomenon varies depending on the severity of the infection, with more serious diseases having the correct antibody orientation.
Researchers discovered how Yersinia pestis avoids triggering the immune system's early alarm, establishing a stronghold without self-destructing. This finding may lead to new vaccine development and treatments for inflammatory disorders, such as stroke, heart attack, lupus, and autoimmune diseases.
A $21,000 grant will enable Mercyhurst researcher Steven Mauro to study the role of temperature and phosphorus on bacterial survival on algae in the Great Lakes. The research aims to better understand how global warming and phosphorus loading contribute to bacterial pathogens in recreational waters.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute decoded the neural mechanisms underlying an escape reflex in fruit flies to avoid toxic microorganisms. A dedicated neural line is activated by geosmin, a substance released by bacteria and mold fungi, overriding all other food odor signals.
Research by University of Cambridge scientists has identified a new mechanism used by Salmonella to spread in the body, which could lead to improved treatments and vaccinations. The study found that bacteria must escape from infected cells to disseminate, but this process is hindered when an active Phox system is present.
Researchers found that different strains of Borrelia burgdorferi respond differently to the immune system of white-footed mice, leading to variations in bacterial growth and prevalence. This knowledge can help scientists develop a vaccine by targeting specific proteins common to all strains.
A new study from the University of Southampton shows that copper can prevent the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes and kills bacteria on contact. The research highlights the importance of copper touch surfaces in reducing the risk of infection transmission, particularly in hospitals and public buildings.
Researchers found that E. coli must acquire iron from the host to establish a foothold and colonize the gut, resolving a long-standing debate about the importance of iron in bacterial infection. By understanding how bacteria obtain iron, scientists can develop new strategies to block microbial diseases and create new antibiotics.
Researchers found that hospital cleaning protocols are often inadequate to remove multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii from patient rooms, with over half of rooms still contaminated after terminal cleaning. Persistent room contamination poses a risk for future patients, highlighting the need for improved infection control measures.
A recent study published in PLOS One reveals that a common diarrhea-causing bacterium triggers an overactive immune response, worsening illness in hospital-acquired infections. Researchers found that activating a protective mechanism involving the PPARgamma pathway can reduce disease severity and be activated by existing diabetes drugs.
USDA scientists identify urban runoff as a significant source of E. coli bacteria in California's middle Santa Ana River Watershed. The study found that pathogens are more often carried into waterways via urban runoff than animal production facilities, highlighting the need for improved water quality management.
Undergraduate researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute created engineered surfaces that kill 34% of E.coli bacteria when peptides are lying flat, but 82% when attached vertically. The team developed a technique to monitor AMP attachment and plans to test other materials for optimal antimicrobial activity
Scientists found bacteria that cause tick-borne disease create their own food supply by hijacking autophagy process in host cells. This allows them to grow and remain hidden from the immune system.