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Gut microbiome directs the immune system to fight cancer

Researchers have discovered a causal link between the gut microbiome and anti-tumor immunity, identifying key bacterial strains that activate the immune system to slow melanoma growth. The study also reveals the role of unfolded protein response (UPR) in this process, providing potential markers for patient stratification.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 2, 2019

Novel potent antimicrobial from thermophilic bacterium

Researchers have discovered a novel glycocin, a small antimicrobial peptide with a sugar group attached, produced by the thermophilic bacterium Aeribacillus palladius. The compound has been successfully expressed in E. coli bacteria, making it easier to produce and investigate. This breakthrough could lead to new alternatives for biofu...

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 12, 2019

Light wakes up freshwater bacteria

Researchers discovered that freshwater bacteria grow faster in daylight and use blue light absorption mechanisms to regulate growth. The study suggests that these bacteria have special genes that allow them to sense light and adjust their metabolism accordingly.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateFeb 27, 2019

Can bacteria colonies be good neighbors?

Researchers studied bacterial ecological systems using experiments and computer models to investigate population dynamics, identifying key role of stochastic effects in early colony patterning. They also found that interactions between neighboring bacteria can amplify local variation, influencing competition outcomes.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysical Biology·DateOct 31, 2018

Study IDs why some TB bacteria prove deadly

Researchers found that a single mutation in TB bacteria makes them resistant to antibiotics and elicits a weaker immune response, leading to higher mortality rates. The study suggests that the same approach may not work for drug-resistant TB strains.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Microbiology·DateSep 17, 2018

Leptospirosis strains identified in Uruguay cattle

Researchers identified 40 different Leptospira strains in Uruguay cattle, including rare isolates and serotypes matching those found in human leptospirosis patients. The discovery highlights the need for improved diagnostic tools and vaccination strategies to mitigate the risk of human infection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 13, 2018

Even short travel can spread colistin-resistant bacteria

Researchers at Osaka University found that short trips to developing countries significantly increase the appearance of colistin-resistant bacteria in Japanese travelers. The study tracked 19 participants who traveled for less than 2 weeks and discovered nearly 90% of travel events resulted in resistant strains.

SourceOsaka University·JournalInfection and Drug Resistance·DateApr 10, 2018

Research presents new information about the Flint water crisis

A statistical analysis found that most Legionnaires' disease cases in Flint can be attributed to the city's switch to the Flint River water source. The study also identified a specific strain of Legionella isolated from Flint residences that is not easily detectable by common diagnostic tests.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2018

The bacterial 'Game of Thrones'

A study by University of Oxford researchers reveals that bacteria approach conflict in a coordinated manner, responding to threats with collective retaliation. The research shows that different strains exhibit varying levels of aggression and can even detect incoming attacks to warn other cells, enabling sophisticated defense strategies.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 25, 2018

Are amoebae safe harbors for plague?

Plague bacteria survive and replicate for up to 48 hours inside an amoeba, replicating and thriving in a way most bacteria do not. The discovery sheds new light on the persistence of plague outbreaks, which can smolder for years before re-emerging with a vengeance.

SourceColorado State University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJan 16, 2018