Gram Negative Bacteria
Articles tagged with Gram Negative Bacteria
Research guides response to unprecedented 2023 E. coli outbreak affecting Calgary kids
A large E. coli outbreak in Calgary daycare centers resulted in 285 children becoming infected, with daily laboratory monitoring and treating dehydration preventing complications and potentially saving lives. The study found that this approach reduced the number of children who developed life-threatening hemolytic uremic syndrome.
Antibiotic resistance can vary depending on where the bacteria live
Research shows that bacteria harbor resistance genes may respond differently to antibiotics under non-standard conditions. This affects treatment efficacy and contributes to understanding antimicrobial resistance development and spread. Understanding these variations is crucial to combat global public health threats.
Bacterial hitchhikers can give their hosts super strength
A Dartmouth study found that plasmids can form tight clusters within bacterial communities, making them resistant to antibiotics and clinical treatments. This phenomenon introduces a new avenue for bacterial infections to become more difficult to treat.
Clinical data gaps keeping life-saving antibiotics from children
The lack of data on safety and dosage limits life-saving antibiotics from children in Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. Only six out of 12 recommended antibiotics are licensed for children under 12, with standard doses often too low.
Poultry growers: Have you checked your water lines lately?
A new study by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture reveals that water quality can significantly impact the type of microbial populations in poultry drinking water lines and litter. The study found a Bacillus species with probiotic properties was more prevalent in biofilms from poultry houses with normal sulfur-iro...
Mechanisms for bacterial lipid transport
Researchers at NUS have successfully applied cryo-EM to study two protein machines that transport lipids in bacterial cells, maintaining the outer membrane barrier. The OmpC-MlaA-MlaC complex deforms local membranes and loosens misplaced lipids, while the TolQ-R2A complex acts as a molecular motor to transmit force for lipid balance.
‘Alarming’ rise in newborn babies with antibiotic-resistant infections, researchers find
A study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Western Pacific found that most newborn infections in Southeast Asia are caused by bacteria unlikely to respond to current treatments, highlighting the need for updated diagnostic and treatment guidelines. Locally relevant data is crucial for guiding routine medical decisions, and new a...
Small protein, big impact: Insights into how bacteria stabilize a key outer membrane complex
Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology reveal the essential role of LptM in maturing and stabilizing the LptDE complex, a key component of Gram-negative bacteria's outer membrane. This finding provides fundamental insights that may support antibiotic design and advances understanding of bacterial virulence.
Researchers explore ways to better safeguard romaine supply
A new study by Cornell University researchers suggests that a combination of efforts, including postharvest techniques and proper cold storage temperatures, can minimize the risk of human health from E. coli outbreaks in romaine lettuce. The study found that contaminated irrigation water is a significant contributor to contamination.
Survival trick: Pathogen taps iron source in immune cells
Researchers found that Salmonella bacteria target iron-rich regions within immune cells to survive and spread. The pathogens exploit these niches, where the remaining iron is still enough for them to grow, driving infection.
Could nanoplastics in the environment turn E. coli into a bigger villain?
Researchers found that nanoplastics with positively charged surfaces caused physiological stress in E. coli O157:H7, leading to increased Shiga-like toxin production. The bacteria's ability to colonize and multiply was also impaired.
Development of a novel modified selective medium cefixime–tellurite-phosphate-xylose-rhamnose MacConkey agar for isolation of Escherichia albertii and its evaluation with food samples
A novel selective medium was developed to isolate Escherichia albertii, a previously uncharacterized species. The CT-PS-XR-MacConkey agar selectively differentiated E. albertii from other bacteria, including those in food samples. This finding has significant implications for the identification and study of this pathogen.
Study uncovers the core principles of low-resistance antibiotics
A groundbreaking study has identified a dual-target approach that significantly prevents the development of resistance in bacteria. This approach combines membrane disruption with an additional critical cellular pathway, offering a potential solution to mitigate the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance.
Chinese scientists reveal anti-bacterial role of plant metabolite
Researchers discovered that erucamide inhibits Type III Secretion injectisome assembly in Gram-negative bacteria, enhancing plant immunity and reducing disease susceptibility. Exogenous application of erucamide protects crops from bacterial diseases, offering a potential biopesticide for sustainable agriculture.
Scientists track pneumonia-causing bacteria as they infect the blood stream
Researchers studied how bacteria like Klebsiella pneumoniae cause systemic infection by tracking its movement in mouse models using a barcoding system. They found that bacteria can spread through two routes: metastatic dissemination and direct dissemination, with the former correlating to a stronger infection.
Antibiotics of the future are prone to bacterial resistance
Recent studies have found that new antibiotics are prone to rapid development of resistance, even before they are widely used. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of these treatments in the long run. To address this issue, researchers call for a shift in antibiotic development prioritizing novel modes of action and responsible...
Hot water best for sanitizing in-shell pecans, sanitizers prevent cross-contamination
In-shell pecans are susceptible to pathogens due to soil contact with wildlife and livestock. A recent study found that hot water treatment significantly reduced Shiga toxin-producing E. coli populations on pecans, regardless of treatment time, and prevented cross-contamination.
Outsmarting superbugs resistant to antibiotics
A $3.96 million grant will support the development of a monitoring device and data-processing algorithm to guide combination therapy design against multidrug-resistant bacteria. The goal is to overcome bacterial defenses and combat the emergence of resistance.
Bacterial pathogen shows alarming resistance to common cleaners, chemists discover
A new study reveals widespread resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to commonly used cleaning agents, including quaternary ammonium compounds. The researchers identify biocides that work well against the pathogen, highlighting the need for revised sanitation protocols in hospitals and homes.
City microbes surviving on disinfectants, research reveals
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.
Bacteria thrive by playing nice before going their own way
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 Lancet: More than 39 million deaths from antibiotic-resistant infections estimated between now and 2050, suggests first global analysis
A new study estimates that more than 1 million people died each year due to antibiotic-resistant infections between 1990 and 2021. The study predicts that this number could increase to nearly 2 million by 2050, with a significant age-related shift in the impact of AMR on children under five years old.
Surprise Finding in study of environmental bacteria could advance search for better antibiotics
Scientists studying environmental bacteria have determined a protein's essential role in maintaining the germ's shape. Loss of the protein OpgH disrupts the bubble-like cell envelope, resulting in the cell's death. This finding could lead to new drug targets and advance the search for better antibiotics.
Old drugs new tricks
Researchers have identified a potent and unique way to kill drug-resistant bacteria using a repurposed compound called LEI-800. The compound targets the bacterial enzyme DNA gyrase, which is essential for bacterial growth and has not been targeted by existing antibiotics.
New antibiotic kills pathogenic bacteria, spares healthy gut microbes
Researchers developed lolamicin, an antibiotic that selectively targets and kills gram-negative pathogens like E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae while preserving beneficial gut microbes.
Mistaken identity cleared up of foodborne pathogen causing severe symptoms in children
A novel real-time PCR method has been developed to detect and identify the emerging zoonotic foodborne pathogen E. albertii, which is often misidentified as E. coli. The study found that E. albertii can survive in the human intestinal tract for approximately four weeks.
Marine bacteria team up to produce a vital vitamin
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.
Same target, different effects
Researchers have identified five LpxC inhibitors that can bind to and inhibit the enzyme, leading to accumulation of inactive enzyme and bacterial cell death. Compound-specific differences were observed in membrane composition and stress responses.
Higher bacterial counts detected in single-serving milks
Researchers at Cornell University found higher bacterial counts in single-serving milks packaged in small paperboard containers, particularly after seven and 14 days of storage. The study suggests that carton-filling machinery may contribute to these higher counts, highlighting the need for improved cleaning and sanitation protocols.
Single-celled kamikazes spearhead bacterial infection
Research reveals that a small subset of bacterial cells produces deadly toxins while sacrificing themselves for the benefit of their comrades. The bacteria use a temperature-sensitive genetic switch to synchronize toxin production with cell enlargement, ensuring an efficient strategy for infection.
Novel enzyme family could provide insights into bacterial pathogenicity
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.
Efficient oil-eating bacteria cooperate to maximize dining capacity
Researchers discovered that Alcanivorax borkumensis biofilms consume oil by stretching droplets into tubes, allowing for efficient oil degradation. Large concentrations of dispersants can harm these biofilms, highlighting the need for further research.
Dataset revolutionizes understanding of beta barrels, promising targets for vaccine development
Researchers from the University of Kansas have created a powerful dataset to facilitate drug development against gram-negative bacteria. The dataset reveals over 270,000 previously unidentified outer-membrane proteins with potential as vaccine targets.
New class of antibiotics to fight resistant bacteria
Researchers at the University of Zurich have developed a new class of antibiotics that target novel targets in bacterial metabolism, effectively fighting resistant bacteria. The peptides are highly effective, safe, and immune to resistance, offering hope for treating bacterial infections in patients.
Anti-microbial nanonets display multi-functionality by mitigating inflammatory responses during sepsis
Pharmaceutical scientists from the National University of Singapore have developed multi-functional synthetic peptide nanonets for relieving inflammation caused by bacterial infection. These nanonets trap bacterial endotoxins and pro-inflammatory cytokines, achieving anti-inflammatory activity through selective binding.
Neglected 80-year-old antibiotic is effective against multi-drug resistant bacteria
A neglected 80-year-old antibiotic, nourseothricin, has been found to be effective against multi-drug resistant bacterial infections. The improvement in purification of the streptothricins has overcome original toxicity concerns, making it a promising agent for treating difficult-to-treat infections.
A dangerous eye infection from tainted eye drops, months before the CDC’s warning
A patient in Cleveland was diagnosed with a corneal ulcer caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a drug-resistant bacterium that's rarely found in eye infections. The contaminated eye drops were identified as the source of infection, and treatment required strong antibiotics to prevent vision loss.
Future is bright for gold-based antibiotics
New research at ECCMID 2023 presents 19 gold complexes effective against at least one hard-to-treat bacterium, including MRSA and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The gold-based drugs use a multimodal mechanism to kill bacteria, preventing antimicrobial resistance from developing.
Increase in multidrug-resistant pathogens since Ukraine war
A study published by Ruhr-University Bochum found a significant increase in multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in German hospitals since the Ukraine war. Patients from Ukraine are at risk and should be screened prior to hospital admission, researchers recommend.
Hidden bacteria presents a substantial risk of antimicrobial resistance in hospital patients
Researchers found that carriers of a specific hidden bacteria have a 14% chance of developing an antibiotic-resistant infection within 30 days of hospitalization. The study highlights the significant risk of infections from multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, particularly in patients undergoing 'dirty' surgery.
Researchers determine genetic variants offered protection during Black Death, associated with current autoimmune disorders
A study found that genetic variants near ERAP2 and TICAM2 provided protection against Yersinia pestis, the bacterium responsible for the Black Death. These variants were also associated with improved detection and resistance to other pathogens, but at a cost: increased risk of autoimmune disorders like Crohn's disease.
Breaking down bacterial barriers
Computational models of bacterial cell walls can predict interactions with antimicrobials, enabling rapid screening for effective molecules. The models reveal differences in cell wall permeability between Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.
Discovery of a new antibiotic against resistant pathogens
Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered a new antibiotic, Dynobactin, effective against resistant Gram-negative bacteria. The compound blocks bacterial membrane protein BamA, preventing its job and killing the bacteria. This finding offers a boost to antibiotics research and could lead to more effective drugs.
New weapon targets antibiotic resistance
A new class of light-activated hemithioindigo molecules developed by Rice University scientists kill specific Gram-positive bacteria and their biofilms. The molecules induce reactive oxygen species that chemically attack and destroy drug-resistant cells, offering a safer alternative to conventional antibiotics.
New drug candidate fights off more than 300 drug-resistant bacteria
Researchers have discovered a new molecule, fabimycin, that effectively treats over 300 drug-resistant bacteria in lab experiments and mice with pneumonia and urinary tract infections. The compound reduces the amount of drug-resistant bacteria to pre-infection levels or below, outperforming existing antibiotics at similar doses.
LSU Health New Orleans discovers major contributor to Alzheimer's disease
Research led by Drs. Yuhai Zhao and Walter J Lukiw reports a pathway from the gut to the brain that contributes to Alzheimer's disease development. Adequate dietary fiber intake can prevent this process. The study suggests a potential means to modify the abundance of microbes in the microbiome.
Mechanism of expanding bacteria revealed
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.
Study unlocks key to success of drug-resistant bacteria
Gram-negative bacteria use a crucial component in their outer membrane that shields them from immune system and antibiotics. Researchers discovered the structure of an enzyme linked to this process, which could lead to custom-designed drugs to counteract these deadly bacteria.
Research team from Goethe University discovers Achilles’ heel of dangerous hospital pathogen
A team from Goethe University has identified the spatial structure of the mannitol-synthesizing enzyme MtlD in Acinetobacter baumannii, which is crucial for its survival. This discovery could lead to the development of customized substances to inhibit the enzyme and combat this hospital pathogen.
Developments in lignin degradation: new microorganisms and enzymes at play
Researchers identified eight new microorganisms that cleave ether bonds in the lignin-based compound-2-phenoxyacetophenone. These discoveries could enhance our understanding of the carbon cycle and facilitate biotechnological applications for lignin commercialization.
SMART researchers discover unique lysin capable of killing deadly multidrug-resistant bacteria
SMART researchers identified a novel phage lysin, Abp013, with promising antimicrobial ability against Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The study demonstrated Abp013's ability to effectively target complex bacterial environments and could advance treatment methods for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens.
How LPS prevents or promotes development of asthma and allergic disease by airborne allergens
A study published in Cell Reports reveals that LPS protects against developing asthma when combined with allergens containing cysteine protease enzymatic activity, but promotes development when paired with allergens lacking this enzyme. This protective effect relies on the production of GM-CSF by non-classical monocytes.
Swirling bacteria mimic Van Gogh’s ‘The Starry Night’
Researchers from Rice University and the University of Wyoming discovered self-organization into circular aggregates in Myxococcus xanthus, a model system for social cooperation. The circular behavior is linked to TraAB protein overexpression, which creates a sticky bond between cells, preventing reversals.
This is how the superbug Pseudomonas aeruginosa reacts to antibiotics
Scientists have studied how different drugs affect Pseudomonas aeruginosa, revealing what makes it resistant to antibiotics. A new experimental substance called CHIR-090 has shown promise in blocking the production of sugar-lipid compounds, a previously unexploited target for treatment.
A conservative distribution of tridomain NDP-heptose synthetases in actinobacteria
The study found that all 86 tridomain homologues of NDP-heptose synthetases are conserved in Actinobacteria, with three types of gene clusters encoding different natural products. The kinase domains of four selected proteins were found to be dysfunctional.
New ribosome-targeting antibiotic acts against drug-resistant bacteria
A new study reveals that iboxamycin effectively fights both gram-negative and gram-positive drug-resistant bacteria in mouse models. The researchers discovered the molecular mechanism that allows this drug to overcome resistance, which is important for developing new antibiotics.
Sharpest images ever reveal the patchy face of living bacteria
Researchers have recorded the sharpest images of living bacteria, revealing a complex architecture that makes them harder to kill by antibiotics. The study found that bacteria with protective outer layers may have stronger and weaker spots on their surface.
Global travelers pick up numerous genes that promote microbial resistance
Researchers found numerous novel genes promoting microbial resistance in international travelers' gut microbiomes. The study highlights the global spread of antimicrobial resistance through travel and emphasizes the need for broader surveillance.
Researchers find target to fight antibiotic resistance
A component of bacteria's cell walls, cardiolipin, may hold the key to fighting antibiotic-resistant microbes. Without it, the outer membrane becomes penetrable, making bacteria vulnerable to antibiotics.