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Unique strain of lactic acid bacteria in Buryat milk is found

Researchers from Lomonosov Moscow State University have isolated a unique strain of lactic acid bacteria, Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis 194, from Buryat milk that possesses a wide range of antimicrobial action against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The strain also shows antifungal properties, making it a promising candida...

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalJournal of Microbial & Biochemical Technology·DateDec 6, 2016

Scientists model outer membrane of 12 bacterial species to speed new drugs for 'bad bugs'

Researchers have revealed the bilayer properties of 21 distinct Lipid A types from 12 Gram-negative bacterial species through biomolecular systems simulation. This study provides crucial information for developing new antibiotics against 'bad bugs' like superbugs, with the goal of accelerating drug development and improving treatment o...

SourceLehigh University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateOct 18, 2016

A 'smart dress' for oil-degrading bacteria

Scientists from Kazan Federal University and Louisiana Tech University created a 'smart dress' for oil-degrading bacteria by coating them with magnetic nanoparticles. The modified bacteria retained their ability to form biofilms, crucial for attaching to oil droplets in natural environments.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalLangmuir·DateJul 22, 2016

Screening method uncovers drugs that may combat deadly antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have developed a method to identify new antimicrobials that target antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Approximately 10,000 compounds were screened, and three approved drugs showed promise in inhibiting the growth of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE).

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAssay and Drug Development Technologies·DateApr 29, 2016

Using graphene to fight bacteria

Scientists are studying graphene oxide to create bacteria-killing catheters and medical devices, reducing the need for antibiotics and speeding recovery times. Graphene oxide wraps around bacteria, puncturing its membrane and killing it, making it a potential alternative to traditional methods that are toxic to the environment.

First synthetic model of bacteria outer membrane

Researchers created a synthetic model of E. coli's outer membrane, providing unprecedented access to its structure and dynamics. The model was used to test how antibiotic molecules can cross the critical barrier, which is highly impermeable to incoming molecules.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 6, 2015

Bacterial warfare

Researchers at UCSB have discovered a mechanism by which gram-negative bacteria deliver protein toxins to their neighbors, killing them. This finding could lead to the development of targeted antibiotics that leave beneficial bacteria in the gut intact.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 2015

On the link between periodontitis and atherosclerosis

Researchers discover that P. gingivalis modifies its lipid A structure to evade host defenses and establish chronic infection, leading to persistent systemic low-grade inflammation. This mechanism contributes to the progression of atherosclerosis in blood vessels.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 10, 2014

New pain target for bacterial infections

Researchers discovered that bacterial LPS components directly activate pain sensors, triggering immediate pain and inflammatory responses. This finding reveals a new target for drugs designed to treat bacterial infections, such as pneumonia and meningitis.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 10, 2014

1-2 punch strategy against bacteria and cancer

Researchers at Rice University propose combining synthetic and natural toxins to create a 'one-two punch' therapy against cancer and drug-resistant bacteria, potentially reducing side effects and preventing resistance. The approach targets the unique membranes of both cancer cells and Gram-negative bacteria.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2013

New compound defeats drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers at Brown University have discovered a new compound that can defeat drug-resistant bacteria by blocking their efflux pumps. The compound, called BU-005, was found to inhibit the activity of two different families of drug-efflux pumps, one associated with Gram-positive bacteria and the other with Gram-negative bacteria.

SourceBrown University·JournalBioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters·DateNov 28, 2011