A research team at the Wyss Institute has engineered bacteria to produce higher amounts of siderophores, molecules that extract iron from silicate minerals, speeding up rock weathering and removing CO2 from the atmosphere. This process has the potential to be implemented at industrial scales, offering a new climate-regulating strategy.
A multidisciplinary study has identified a novel biofilm regulatory protein called Biofilm Architecture Regulator (BatR) and its role in Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. The discovery may lead to new targets for anti-infective treatments, including those for people with cystic fibrosis.
A new liquid-based platform called 'floatony' can form and maintain complex three-dimensional microbial structures while preserving molecular diffusion, spatial structures, and cell mobility. This approach could offer new ways to study gut microbiota, biofilms, and other spatially organized microbial communities.
Researchers analyzed 49 journal articles on bacterial cellulose-derived carbon electrodes for supercapacitors, finding that preservation of the nanofiber network and mechanical properties are crucial for performance. The study highlights BCC's potential to outperform commercial activated carbon under comparable conditions.
Researchers found bacteria can forcefully eject cells from communities as a survival mechanism, utilizing self-generated hydrogels. This ability allows biofilms to disperse and colonize new areas, potentially aiding in the elimination of harmful bacterial communities without antibiotics.
Researchers uncovered the genetic history of Acinetobacter baumannii, tracing its evolution over decades to identify key resistance traits and global spread. The study provides valuable insights for guiding policies on antibiotic use and combating this serious healthcare threat.
Researchers identified five immunomodulatory proteins in Borrelia recurrentis that prevent activation of the human complement system, allowing the pathogen to survive in the human body. These Chi proteins also convert plasminogen into active plasmin, giving Borrelia recurrentis a significant advantage in spreading after infection.
Scientists have mapped the structure of Vibrio bacteria with unprecedented detail, revealing a new target for treatment. The findings could provide a solution to life-threatening infections linked to antibiotic resistance.
Researchers at the John Innes Centre discovered a three-gene control hub that enables bacteria to share genes linked to antibiotic resistance. The study found that this mechanism is controlled by a bacterial immune system, which has been repurposed to release gene transfer agents.
Researchers discovered a mechanism that enables bacterial pathogens to assemble antibiotic-resistant 3D biofilms, which protect them from antibiotics and the immune system. The team found that adhesive pili form flat sheets linking bacteria together and shield them from hostile environments.
Scientists have discovered new ways to kill bacteria by targeting the MurJ transporter, a key component of peptidoglycan biosynthesis. Researchers found that phage-derived protein antibiotics inhibit MurJ's activity, providing potential targets for antibacterial drugs.
The study will select the exact phage that is appropriate for each patient's bacteria, and aims to reduce antibiotic use and healthcare costs. Bacteriophages have been shown to be effective against resistant bacteria causing urinary tract infections.
Researchers found that filamentous cyanobacteria regulate their metabolism during the day and genome repair at night, revealing a new circadian rhythm in these microorganisms. Their study also uncovered diversity-generating retroelements and mobile genetic elements active throughout the day-night cycle.
Researchers at UMC Utrecht discovered that converting monoclonal antibodies from IgG to IgM isotype can significantly broaden their ability to recognize and bind multiple human-relevant bacterial pathogens. This finding could guide the future design of antibody therapies against bacterial infections.
A recent study found that bacteria employ amyloids, a key driver of Alzheimer's disease, as a molecular suit of armor against predatory bacteria. By understanding this mechanism, scientists may develop new strategies to combat antibiotic-resistant microbes and potentially even neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Scientists identified a unique protein in bacteria that can trap parts of the membrane, causing damage to other bacteria. This discovery reveals a new 'superfamily' of lipid-trapping proteins, which could have implications for antibacterial development and synthetic biology.
Researchers at Politecnico di Milano have developed a system that allows bacteria to sense light and convert it into electrical signals without genetic modification. This method has the potential to develop next-generation antimicrobial platforms and biocompatible 'bacterial robots' for targeted drug delivery.
Researchers discovered that sulfur bacteria from the Desulfobacteraceae family work together like a team to break down diverse organic compounds. By analyzing six strains, they found similar molecular strategies and a highly energy-efficient central metabolism pathway, enabling them to thrive in oxygen-free environments.
A new study has identified novel strains of microbes that have adapted to use limited resources in cities, including those found in Hong Kong's subways and skin. These microbes can metabolize manufactured products, posing health risks if they are pathogenic.
A new study reveals how three species of bacteria coexist in biofilms by playing a game of 'nice' and then moving out when the surface becomes too crowded. The dominant species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, disperses to allow other species to thrive.
The University of Texas at Arlington has increased its paid undergraduate research opportunities by tripling them in 2024. Undergraduate students who participate in these programs are more likely to finish college and pursue graduate studies, including medical school.
Researchers discovered that two species of marine bacteria work together to produce vitamin B12, essential for metabolism and survival of many marine organisms. The bacteria release building blocks into the water, which are then combined to form the vitamin through a complex process involving viral infection.
Researchers discovered that a bacterial species can switch from being prey to a predator when grown at a lower temperature. The study, published in PLOS Biology, highlights the importance of considering historical context in evaluating predator-prey relationships.
Researchers have discovered that natural antimicrobial predatory bacteria, Bdellovibrio bacterivorous, produce fibre-like proteins on their surface to ensnare prey. This breakthrough enables scientists to use these predators to target and kill problematic bacteria in healthcare, food spoilage, and the environment.
Researchers have discovered a novel enzyme family related to bacterial pathogenicity in Gram-negative bacteria. The study revealed that enzymes involved in OPG synthesis and regulation play crucial roles in bacterial infection capability.
Researchers at Aarhus University discovered that cable bacteria form a dance-like connection with diverse aerobic bacteria in the anoxic seabed. The small bacteria benefit by transferring electrons to the cable bacteria, forming an electrical lifeline to oxygen.
The study reveals unexpected mechanisms that enable Aromatoleum aromaticum EbN1 T to adapt to changing environments. By analyzing its metabolic network, researchers developed a model to predict growth under diverse conditions.
Researchers have found that hypermucoviscous K pneumoniae strains carry higher rates of virulence genes and are less responsive to conventional drugs. These strains are thicker and stickier than previous strains, making them more challenging to treat with antibiotics.
Researchers have developed a novel approach to engineering live bacterial therapeutics by using native microbes that can survive in the gut. This method overcomes previous limitations of introducing engineered bacteria into the gut, demonstrating potential for long-term therapy and reversal of disease pathologies in mouse models.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have developed a fast and facile synthesis method for antibacterial amino acid Schiff base copper complexes using microwave irradiation. The new technique produces high-purity products with promising antimicrobial activity, overcoming the challenge of long synthesis times.
Gram-negative bacteria rely on cell wall to synchronize outer membrane building, but a new study identified 'old' peptidoglycan as the key factor controlling this process. Disrupting this mechanism makes Gram-negative bacteria vulnerable to targeted antibiotics.
Chronic bacterial infections can lead to chronic inflammation and DNA damage, increasing CRC risk. Salmonella infections are particularly risky, as they impair immune responses and promote tumorigenesis.
Acetobacterium woodii bacteria can efficiently metabolize CO2 into formate, providing a sustainable alternative to oil-based products. This process can be genetically modified to produce ethanol or lactic acid, enabling the recycling of CO2 and carbon monoxide.
Chromobacterium violaceum uses zinc ion transporter ZnuABC to overcome host constraints on metal availability, increasing its virulence. The discovery offers a route for novel therapies against bacterial infections.
A new German research project aims to challenge the perception of bacteria as simple organisms by studying their complex behavior and multicellularity. The study seeks to gain a deeper understanding of bacterial life forms, with potential applications in combating antibiotic resistance and developing innovative biocatalysis.
Researchers have discovered a unique binding mode that allows bacteria to stick to cellulose fibers in the human gut, enabling them to withstand shear forces. This breakthrough sheds light on the microbiome and its relationship to human health, with potential applications in bio-based medical superglues.
Two natural sugar polymers, exopolysaccharide and biosurfactant, contribute to multicellularity in M. xanthus. The compounds are produced in distinct areas of the swarm, promoting the formation of complex structures and ensuring community survival.
A new ion channel in bacteria has been identified, filling a missing link in the evolutionary history of mammalian calcium channels. The discovery provides insight into the universal mechanism of calcium selectivity in both mammals and bacteria.
Microorganisms living underground have a total carbon mass of 15-23 billion tons, vastly more than humans. The deep biosphere has a volume of between 2 and 2.3 billion cubic kilometers, almost twice the volume of all oceans.
Research suggests that consuming high-fiber foods can decrease the impact of stress on the gut and brain. This is due to the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) by gut bacteria, which have been shown to reduce anxiety-like behavior and improve bowel function.
Changes in intestinal bacteria have been linked to metabolic diseases such as diabetes and dyslipidemia. A study found that antibiotic-induced dysbiosis can decrease blood glucose and triglyceride levels, highlighting the potential for targeting intestinal bacteria to prevent or treat these conditions.
Methanotrophic bacteria have the unique ability to take in copper for use in methane metabolism, a process that also digests the potent greenhouse gas. A Northwestern University study has pinpointed two proteins, MbnB and MbnC, as key players in this process.
Researchers discovered Listeria monocytogenes can change its behavior when infecting liver and placenta cells, producing a dormant form that is more tolerant of antibiotics. This finding explains the long incubation period of listeriosis and may lead to new therapeutic strategies.
The heat-treated EF-2001 β-glucan exhibited antioxidative potential, anti-tumor activities, and immune-enhancing response in mice. Lymphocyte and polymorphonuclear leukocyte ratio increased upon treatment with EF-2001.
Brandon Cooper, a new University of Montana faculty member, has received a $1.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to investigate the effects of Wolbachia bacteria on insect physiology and fitness. The study aims to understand how these bacteria spread within and between host species.
Research led by Dr. Lauri Byerley found that walnuts increase beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting a diverse microbiota. This shift in gut bacteria has been associated with better health outcomes, including reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and inflammatory bowel disease.
A new study finds that heterogeneity in frailty and robustness in Eurasian sparrowhawks contributes to longer female lives, with life expectancy reaching up to 4.23 years for the most robust adult females. The study suggests considering heterogeneity when studying sex differences in mortality.
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.
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 found that dietary prebiotics improved non-REM sleep and REM sleep after stressful events in male rats. The prebiotic diet also maintained a healthy gut microbiota and normal body temperature fluctuations even after stress exposure.
Researchers found a bacterium can convert CO2 to CO, opening up new avenues for recycling greenhouse gas into biofuels. The discovery establishes nitrogenase enzyme as template for energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly fuel production.
Scientists have discovered molecular mechanisms that allow bacteria to survive antibiotic treatment and cause chronic infections. These 'persister cells' can resuscitate after treatment is abandoned, leading to relapsing infections. Understanding this phenomenon may lead to the development of novel antibiotics targeting persisters.
Scientists used worms to decipher how bacterial signals from the microbiome influence the host, shedding light on diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. The study found that specific bacterial genes modify worm physiology, serving as a model to study the gut microbiome in mammals.
Researchers from the University of Georgia questioned the assumption that naturally-occurring microbes can quickly consume methane following a major oil spill. The study found that bacteria were unable to effectively consume the potent greenhouse gas due to environmental constraints.
A team of researchers at Columbia University has developed a CMOS chip that can electrochemically image signaling molecules from bacterial colonies, providing new insights into how biofilms form. The chip enables direct detection of small molecules, such as phenazines, which control gene expression and contribute to colony morphogenesis.
Researchers analyzed the membrane components of V. cholera that enable it to withstand increases in osmotic pressure, revealing comparable gating and conductive properties with E. coli channels. The study found that V. cholerae was more sensitive to abrupt decreases in osmolarity than E. coli.
A Michigan State University study found that female mice are protected from severe symptoms of colitis and bone deterioration, suggesting a reduced gut inflammation response. The findings could aid in understanding and treating the 1.4 million Americans suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases.
A study by scientists from the University of Valencia has shown that cockroaches eliminate excess nitrogen by excreting ammonia, unlike most terrestrial insects. The research suggests an evolutionary convergence between cockroaches and ants, arriving at similar metabolic solutions through their associations with endosymbionts.
Researchers discovered genetic differences between two ocean bacteria, one thriving in nutrient-rich waters and the other in poor-nutrient waters, reflecting their distinct lifestyles.
Researchers have isolated five new Rubrobacter strains that contribute to the biodeterioration of old buildings. These bacteria degrade building materials through vital activities.