Add BrightSurf on Google Email

International team compares 12 fruit fly genomes

Researchers compared 12 closely related fruit fly species to better understand genetic adaptation, immune systems and gene regulation. The study, led by Cornell University, found evidence of evolutionary pressures on genes and regulatory elements that control diseases, development and behavior.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateNov 8, 2007

Bacteria may not hasten death

A study by University of Southern California researchers found that bacteria-free fruit flies lived as long as their bacterial counterparts, challenging conventional wisdom about the impact of microbes on lifespan. The finding suggests that factors other than bacterial load may limit life span.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 7, 2007

Periodontal diseases are blind to age

Two studies suggest that periodontal diseases are a threat to women of all ages. Women taking oral contraceptive pills are more likely to experience gingival bleeding and deeper periodontal pockets. Periodontal bacteria are also linked to bone loss in postmenopausal women, highlighting the importance of good oral health throughout life.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateJun 12, 2007

Does evolution select for faster evolvers?

New research by Rice University scientists reveals that horizontal gene transfer (HGT) contributes to the speed of evolution, allowing life forms to adapt faster. The study proposes a mathematical model that accounts for HGT and its impact on the dynamics of evolution.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 29, 2007

Researchers report initial success in promising approach to prevent tooth decay

Researchers have created a new smart anti-microbial treatment called STAMP that can selectively target and kill cavity-causing bacteria without harming good bacteria. The treatment uses a specific pheromone to locate the bacteria and an anti-microbial bomb to eliminate it, offering a promising approach to preventing tooth decay.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateOct 23, 2006

Bacteria that use radiated water as food

Researchers found a self-sustaining community of bacteria that rely on radioactive uranium to convert water molecules into usable energy, living 2.8 kilometers below Earth's surface. The discovery expands Earth's biosphere and raises excitement about the potential for life on Mars.

SourceIndiana University·JournalScience·DateOct 19, 2006

Bacteria can help predict ocean change

A new study by University of Southern California researchers reveals that most bacteria species are predictable and follow specific conditions. By understanding these patterns, scientists can improve models for ocean change, providing a more accurate prediction of how the oceans will evolve.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 2006

The Midas Bug -- the bacterial alchemy of gold

New research published in Science reveals that specific bacteria present on gold grains precipitate gold from solution, providing a biological mechanism for gold formation. The study identified the bacterium Ralstonia metallidurans as responsible for this process, which has significant implications for the mineral exploration industry.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2006

Live wires

Researchers have found that various bacterial species can form electrically conductive wires under different environmental conditions, leading to a new understanding of microbial energy distribution. The discovery, made by microbiologist Yuri Gorby, suggests that the planet may be 'hard-wired' with electricity-producing bacteria.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 10, 2006

DNA: Bacteria's survival ration

A recent study found that bacteria can utilize DNA as a critical food source, enabling them to outcompete other microbes and survive longer. The study identified eight genes necessary for this process, known as nutritional competence, which could have applications in medical research and the development of genetic antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateMay 25, 2006

Say what? Bacterial conversation stoppers

Researchers have discovered that bacteria share a universal molecular vernacular called AI-2, which enables them to communicate and interfere with each other's behavior. This study shows that AI-2 can be used as a mechanism for one type of bacteria to block another from counting its neighbors and controlling its behavior.

Deep sea buffet for bone-devouring worms

Researchers discovered a unique partnership between Osedax worms and their symbiotic bacteria, allowing them to turn over large amounts of organic carbon at an accelerated rate. This process can potentially aid understanding of adaptation between animals and microbes.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateSep 22, 2005

Nitrogen fertilization of soil puts rare plant species at risk, nationwide study determines

A nationwide study by UCI researcher found that nitrogen fertilization can have a devastating impact on rare plant species, causing a decline in diversity and even local extinction. The study analyzed 967 plant species across various ecosystems and identified simple plant traits as predictors of species risk.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2005