Articles tagged with Bacterial Pathogens
Research found that light and photosynthesis aid in bacterial internalization within lettuce leaves. This makes the bacteria impervious to washing and food sanitizers. The study suggests that the increased internalization is due to open stomata allowing nutrient uptake during photosynthesis.
Research finds that pathogenic E. coli are common in Michigan and Indiana streams, even with low fecal indicator bacteria concentrations. The study suggests that current methods for determining water quality may not accurately predict the presence of harmful pathogens.
Rice University biochemists are developing a system of 'evolutionary forecasting' to better understand the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance. By sequencing genomes and analyzing molecular changes, they hope to identify patterns and rules governing how bacteria evolve to become drug-resistant.
Researchers discovered a previously unknown mechanism that aids in the spread of Listeria monocytogenes, a deadly bacterium causing listeriosis and severe illnesses.
A CU-Boulder study found that 30% of showerheads harbor significant levels of Mycobacterium avium, a pathogen linked to pulmonary disease. The researchers discovered biofilms on the inside of showerheads containing high loads of M. avium and related pathogens.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health have found a mechanism that makes human pathogens like MRSA and anthrax resistant to numerous antibiotics. By eliminating the oxidative stress caused by many antibiotics, NO can be neutralized, rendering existing antibiotics more potent at lower doses.
A new study found that bean plants' natural defenses against bacterial infections cause the bacteria to exchange DNA, potentially leading to the emergence of more pathogenic strains. This process could have significant implications for understanding the relationship between pathogens and their hosts.
Scientists have discovered how salmonella kills tumors by migrating into cancerous tissues and triggering a strong inflammatory response. The inflammatory response causes blood vessels in the tumor to become permeable, allowing salmonella to spread and ultimately kill the tumor.
A new biosensor developed by researchers at Rovira i Virgili University can detect extremely low levels of Salmonella typhi, the bacteria that causes typhoid fever, immediately and reliably. The technique uses carbon nanotubes and synthetic DNA fragments to activate an electric signal when they link up with the pathogen.
Scientists attach light-emitting genes to Listeria monocytogenes bacteria to detect their movement in real-time, revealing path of infection. The technology indicates which bacterial genes are switched on during infection and has potential for vaccine and DNA-delivery vectors.
Researchers found that pathogenic E. coli strains can survive modern food processing methods and exploit different food sources than laboratory strains. They demonstrated differences in growth characteristics, antimicrobial resistance, and reaction to environmental stresses.
Researchers have designed probiotics that can bind toxins in the gut, preventing them from interacting with host intestinal cells. These receptor-mimic probiotics offer a promising treatment for diseases such as cholera and traveller's diarrhoea, and may also be used to prevent outbreaks following natural disasters.
A large-scale study has reconstructed a key molecular circuit in mammalian immune cells, identifying over 100 regulators that work together to distinguish viruses from bacteria. The research provides a deeper understanding of immune biology and could inspire novel ways to treat disease and design better vaccines.
Researchers suggest engineering attenuated pathogens to mimic live viruses, inducing potent cellular response. The study identifies key immune patterns that distinguish pathogenic from non-pathogenic microbes.
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys have identified a key enzyme in bacteria that can be targeted to kill dangerous pathogens. Chemical compounds have been discovered to inhibit this enzyme, showing promise for developing new antibacterial agents.
Researchers found that commensal bacteria in the human gut activate the immune system against Toxoplasma gondii by releasing signaling molecules, inducing inflammatory responses. The study suggests looking at gut bacteria to understand susceptibility to infectious diseases and developing novel probiotic strategies.
Researchers have identified a key protein, NanA, that allows pneumococcus bacteria to penetrate the brain, leading to meningitis. Removing or modifying this protein can prevent bacterial entry, offering potential new avenues for developing more effective vaccines.
Researchers have discovered a natural food preservative in mango seeds, which can inhibit the growth of deadly bacteria like Listeria. This breakthrough could help prevent outbreaks and save lives, as well as reduce waste by recycling fruit kernels.
New research by USGS scientists finds that ingesting beach sand can lead to gastrointestinal illness, with children more susceptible. Hand washing or sanitizing significantly reduces the risk of infection.
Researchers have identified a genomic 'signature' in circulating blood that reveals exposure to common upper respiratory viruses, such as the cold or flu. This signature reflects subtle but robust changes in genes activated by the body's response to infection, allowing for accurate diagnosis and personalized care.
Researchers at Duke University have solved the structure of Ramoplanin A2, a candidate antibiotic that can kill pathogenic bacteria by interrupting cell membrane formation. The molecule forms U-shaped structures that bind to Lipid II, preventing its participation in membrane synthesis and leading to bacterial death.
UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers have found that autophagy prevents harmful bacteria like Salmonella from becoming successful pathogens. Decreases in autophagy may lead to abnormalities in the intestinal tract's response to bacterial infections.
Researchers at VIB have determined the structure and operating mechanism of a deadly toxin-antitoxin system found in bacteria. The discovery provides new avenues for developing a class of antibiotics to combat bacterial threats.
A new study finds that administration of a novel small molecule effectively disrupts quorum sensing in bacteria, protecting animal hosts from infection. The research offers a potential alternative to traditional antibiotics and may lead to more effective treatments for bacterial infections.
Scientists at the University of Bath and University of Exeter have developed a technique to study bacterial infections in real-time with living organisms. They used fruit fly embryos to track bacterial movement and interaction with the immune system.
Researchers at TUM have identified a unique pathway in aggressive microorganisms, such as tuberculosis and malaria pathogens, that may be vulnerable to custom-tailored antibiotics. The discovery opens a promising approach for developing new reaction steps vital to microorganisms but irrelevant in humans.
In a study mapping the gene profiles of children with severe Staphylococcus aureus infections, researchers found that the innate immune response is overactivated while the adaptive immune system is suppressed. This knowledge could lead to better patient outcomes and more effective therapies.
Researchers discovered that GBS fools the immune system by reducing production of antibiotic molecules, allowing the bacteria to survive and proliferate. This understanding may lead to new targets for medical therapy to boost the immune system and clear GBS infection in critically ill newborns.
Researchers observed chemical changes in Desulfovibrio vulgaris cells as they endured air exposure, enabling some to survive through orchestrated metabolic events. This study provides a new window into bacterial adaptation and processes.
Researchers developed a new diagnostic method using tandem repeats in bacterial genomes to distinguish between pathogens like Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. This technique can identify hundreds of bacteria strains quickly and accurately, helping track disease outbreaks and inform preventive measures.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have identified three proteins called Toll-like receptors as necessary for the autodestruction that occurs in autoimmune diseases like lupus. The study suggests that these TLRs may be good targets for therapy, potentially leading to new treatments for lupus and other autoimmune diseases.
Researchers at Ohio State University used mathematical modeling to determine the optimal timing of the immune response to tuberculosis, finding that introducing interferon gamma during early stages could shorten the switching time and reduce bacterial load. The study suggests a cocktail approach to new TB therapies.
A study found similarities between a plant-dwelling bacterium and a hospital-resident pathogen, highlighting potential risks of using the former for biotech applications. The research suggests caution in using this strain due to its antibiotic resistance and ability to form biofilms.
Studies found that glove perforation increased surgical site infection rates by 10%, with no association when antibiotics were used. Implementing measures like double gloving and glove replacement can decrease perforation risk.
Researchers have found a novel bacterium, Herminiimonas glaciei, trapped under glacial ice in Greenland for over 120,000 years. The tiny microbe, 10-50 times smaller than E. coli, has survived in extreme conditions and may provide insights into extraterrestrial life.
The study reveals that each bacterial strain presents a unique outer surface protein, rendering current vaccines less effective against new strains. Researchers believe a tip protein-based vaccine strategy could provide better protection.
Bacteria of the Yersinia genus possess a protein thermometer called RovA, which measures temperature and metabolic activity to control infection. RovA activates genes for the infection process in suitable environments, while adapting to life within the host.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have cracked the mystery of a failed TB vaccine by modifying it to reduce antioxidant production, leading to stronger immune responses in mice. The modified BCG vaccine could offer improved protection against pulmonary TB and serve as a platform for other vaccines.
Researchers uncover Komodo dragons' venom composition, which combines teeth and venom for lethal effects, contradicting earlier theories. The venom causes severe blood loss, inducing shock in victims.
Researchers have isolated a new species of bacteria that can break down cholesterol, a contaminant found in urban sewage residues. The novel organism, Gordonia cholesterolivorans, has the potential to clean up cholesterol-related contamination and could be used for industrial applications.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have identified a key mechanism behind bacterial meningitis, offering new avenues for treatment and vaccine development. The discovery could save hundreds of children's lives and provide broad protection against this deadly disease.
Out-patient clinics and offices can transmit antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA, C.difficile, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus. Implementing infection control strategies such as hygiene, education, and careful prescribing of antibiotics can minimize transmission.
A study published in Environmental Microbiology reveals that cigarette smoke changes the DNA and membrane proteins of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key bacterial cause of periodontitis. This adaptation affects the immune system's recognition of the pathogen, making smokers more susceptible to oral disease.
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.
A new study by Uppsala University reveals a mechanism to delay the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Inhibiting drug efflux pumps can mask the effect of mutations that reduce antibiotic binding, providing clues to delaying resistance development.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered tufted bacteria can attach to premature babies' skin, causing infection. The bacteria's unique hair-like structures facilitate adhesion, while LL37 antimicrobial peptide helps inhibit growth.
Researchers at Autoimmunity Research Foundation discovered that hidden bacteria alter human genes and gene products, leading to autoantibody production. Antibacterial therapies targeting these microbes can reverse autoimmune disease processes.
Lice parasites have been found to modulate the immune system of wild wood mice, suggesting a potential link between parasite exposure and reduced autoimmune disease risk. This research implies that modern humans, lacking natural parasite exposure, may develop less regulated immune systems leading to increased disease susceptibility.
Researchers studied louse infestation's effect on immune activity in wild wood mice, finding reduced readiness to mount an immune response. This suggests a potential immunosuppressive effect of the parasite, supporting the idea that modern human populations have heightened immune responsiveness due to reduced exposure to parasites.
Scientists identify Psl as key component in Pseudomonas biofilm development, enabling bacterial cells to resist efforts to kill them. The discovery offers new potential therapies targeting the sugar to prevent biofilm formation.
Researchers discover adenylylation, a unique post-translational modification, regulates cell signaling by inactivating key proteins. This discovery opens new avenues for exploring bacterial pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.
Research suggests that supplementing with vitamin D can exacerbate autoimmune diseases by deactivating the immune response and allowing bacteria to spread more easily. The form of vitamin D derived from food and supplements, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, is a secosteroid rather than a vitamin.
Research on Pseudomonas aeruginosa reveals the mineral phosphate plays a crucial role in its deadly behavior, potentially leading to new treatments that disarm the pathogen without killing it. Excess phosphate can mitigate harm caused by activated P. aeruginosa, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach.
Researchers found that cigarette smoke exposure alters the immune response to bacteria in mice, leading to increased inflammation and weight loss. This shift in inflammatory markers may impact treatment efficacy with corticosteroids for COPD patients.
Researchers developed a targeted antibiotic to kill Porphyromonas gingivalis, a cause of gum disease, without harming other beneficial bacteria. This approach aims to provide new treatments for oral diseases and prevent drug resistance.
A University at Buffalo study reveals that two oral pathogens, but the total number of germs, are associated with an increased risk of heart attack. The study found that patients harbored more periodontal bacteria than controls, and that an increase in the number of different species also elevated heart attack odds.
A natural method of disinfecting mung bean seeds using hot water has been discovered, killing bacterial pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes without reducing germination rates. This method is suitable for organic production systems and could help prevent food poisoning outbreaks.
Researchers used probiotics to protect animals from diseases such as mastitis and salmonellosis, demonstrating their potential to prevent and treat human diseases. The study identified specific bacterial species and mechanisms of action that could lead to the development of new treatments.
Researchers have developed a new generation of natural antibiotics using bioengineering, targeting harmful micro-organisms like MRSA and Listeria monocytogenes. These enhanced nisin variants possess greater activities against clinical pathogens and could become acceptable alternatives to current antimicrobials.
Researchers at UCL Eastman Dental Institute have developed a light-activated antibacterial coating that can kill 99.9% of E. coli bacteria when exposed to white light. The coating, made of titanium dioxide with added nitrogen, has shown promise in reducing hospital-acquired infections.