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How antibiotics help spread resistance

Researchers found that certain antibiotics can alter the way bacteria divide and interact with each other, leading to increased competence and the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes. Biofilms play a crucial role in this process, allowing cells to secrete higher concentrations of a peptide that triggers quorum sensing.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 27, 2018

Making intricate images with bacterial communities

Researchers from Stanford University have developed a technique called biofilm lithography to create intricate designs with bacterial communities. The method involves shining blue light on bacteria that secrete a sticky protein, resulting in sharp images of patterns such as polka dots and circuits.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 19, 2018

Biofilm discovery suggests new way to prevent dangerous infections

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have made a breakthrough in understanding how bacterial biofilms form, suggesting a new approach to preventing these deadly infections. By developing coatings for medical devices that block the trigger mechanism, biofilm-related hospital-borne infections could be sharply reduced.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2017

Investigators identify optimal conditions for growth of Legionella bacteria

Researchers found that Legionella pneumophila grows well in warm tap water installations with ample dissolved organic matter, supporting biofilm formation. The study suggests that microgram-per-liter concentrations of biodegradable compounds can induce bacterial growth on surfaces, promoting proliferation of the bacteria.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJan 6, 2017

Molecular troublemakers instead of antibiotics?

Researchers at Kiel University have identified natural proteins that can disrupt bacterial communication and prevent biofilm formation. These 'molecular troublemakers' have potential applications in medicine and biotechnology, particularly against antibiotic-resistant pathogens.

SourceKiel University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJul 29, 2016

Inhibition of oral biofilm and cell-cell communication using natural-products derivatives

Researchers have identified six natural-products derivatives that can inhibit oral biofilm formation and quorum sensing in three indigenous oral Gram-positive bacteria. These compounds, structurally similar to S-ribosyl homocysteine, reduce bioluminescence in a Vibrio harveyi QS reporter, indicating inhibition of AI-2 based QS.

Secrets of bacterial slime revealed

Researchers discovered a molecular switch regulating biofilm formation, which could help identify new antibiotics and prevent biofilms from forming. The study sheds light on how bacteria shield themselves in a slimy protective layer to evade attacks.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 12, 2013

New coating evicts biofilms for good

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new coating called SLIPS that can prevent the formation of biofilms on surfaces. The technology, which is smooth and slippery due to an immobilized liquid layer, has been shown to reduce the formation of disease-causing bacteria by up to 96%.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2012

Mighty mesh

Biofilms expand by swelling and then spreading due to the force generated by the extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM increases osmotic pressure within the biofilm, causing it to absorb water from its surroundings and swell. This process allows the biofilm to grow and spread horizontally.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2012

More power to the cranberry: Study shows juice better than extracts at fighting infections

A new study by researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute shows that cranberry juice is more effective than proanthocyanidin extracts in preventing biofilm formation, a precursor to urinary tract infections. The study found that cranberry juice completely prevented biofilm formation, while extracts showed limited ability to reduce it.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalFood Science and Biotechnology·DateOct 28, 2011

United we stand; divided we fall

Researchers observed paracrine signaling in Bacillus subtilis, a novel mechanism for maintaining two differentiated cell populations within a bacterial community. This discovery opens doors to developing strategies to reverse differentiation in antibiotic persister cells.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJul 14, 2009