Articles tagged with Microorganisms
Researchers have identified microbial remains in ancient organic matter on Earth, dating back 3.5 billion years, using electron microscope techniques. The findings confirm the presence of primitive microbial communities, shedding light on the origins of life on Earth.
As glaciers melt, DNA of ancient microorganisms may return to life, potentially altering ecosystems. The duration the DNA remains intact depends on factors such as temperature and oxygen levels.
A new microfluidics device has enabled researchers to analyze a rare bacteria found in the human mouth and sequence over 1,000 genes from an unstudied group of bacteria, known as TM7. This breakthrough technology holds promise for advancing microbial ecology and discovering new species.
A new device called the BioSampler detects airborne pathogens more accurately than traditional methods, even in low concentrations. The BioSampler causes less damage to microorganisms, allowing for a more accurate assessment of their viability and potential threat to human health.
Expert suggests searching for past life on Mars by exploring old rocks and sediments, using instruments to analyze biosignatures and organic materials. Robotic drilling technology currently limits to a few yards depth, making exopaleontology the best approach.
A study published in JCI Journals reveals that vitamin D3 production is induced by skin wounds, leading to increased expression of antimicrobial peptides and microbial recognition receptors. This mechanism helps protect the skin from harmful microbes and enhances immune response.
Researchers propose that microorganisms can thrive in the Deep Biosphere due to natural radioactivity, offering an alternative energy source. This process, radiolysis, creates hydrogen and oxygen, providing sufficient energy for life forms to survive without surface processes.
Researchers witness steps in biological nitrogen fixation process, enabling microbes to convert atmospheric nitrogen to nutrients. The study suggests the biological process does not follow the same pathway as the chemical method.
A new study suggests microbes produce repugnant chemicals to compete with larger animals for valuable food resources like decaying meat and seeds. Microbes can outcompete other organisms if they can produce chemicals that make these resources unpalatable to higher species.
A Princeton-led research group found an isolated community of bacteria nearly two miles underground that derives all its energy from the decay of radioactive rocks. The bacteria's ability to thrive in extreme conditions suggests life might exist on other worlds, including Mars.
Researchers will catalog microbial inhabitants, study tourism impact and investigate microorganisms' role in cave formation. The team hopes to find microbes for medical, industrial and biotechnology applications.
A new study published in European Journal of Nutrition found that soy germ isoflavones supplementation decreased bone loss in postmenopausal women. The study used SoyLife&Reg; EXTRA and showed a dose-dependent effect on reducing bone loss in non-obese women.
Dr. Koo has received the IADR Young Investigator Award, a prestigious honor recognizing his groundbreaking work on microbial biofilms in dental and oral craniofacial research. The award, supported by Procter & Gamble Co., is designed to stimulate basic research in all dental disciplines.
A literature review reveals children learn about objective nonobservables like germs through matter-of-fact discussions. They also contribute to their understanding and appear more confident in scientific subjects than spiritual ones.
The lung has a unique innate immune system, protected by alveolar macrophages that are repressed in steady state, activated when needed, and then re-repressed. This complex circuit allows for brief activation periods to fight invading microorganisms.
The VBI Microbial Database provides genome sequence and annotation data for two major plant pathogens, Phytophthora sojae and Phytophthora ramorum. The database offers powerful analytical tools and community annotation features to facilitate research on these pathogens.
Researchers found that mating in microbes reduces asexual reproduction efficiency, but leads to genetic diversity and hardy offspring. This balance between cost and benefit of sex may improve survival chances under harsh environmental conditions.
A new microbial genome sequence shows that C. hydrogenoformans can convert water and carbon monoxide to hydrogen, making it an excellent starting point for clean fuel production. The microbe's unique protein machines allow it to use carbon monoxide in different ways, making it more efficient than other species.
Scientists have discovered a way to create electricity from cow waste by harnessing the power of microorganisms that break down cellulose. This process uses rumen fluid and cow dung to generate electricity, offering a promising alternative to traditional energy sources.
Researchers at Penn State developed a new assay to quantify ergothioneine in fungi, finding that white button mushrooms have about 12 times more of the antioxidant than wheat germ and 4 times more than chicken liver. Exotic mushrooms contain up to 40 times as much ergothioneine as wheat germ.
A novel method for disinfecting long-term intravascular devices with ethanol solution may prevent serious bloodstream infections and hospital deaths. The study found no adverse effect on the catheter materials after a daily rinse cycle.
Researchers found that adding shampoo detergent, cetavlon, to varnish creates a self-sterilizing surface. The coating kills microbes within seconds of application and remains effective for up to 5 months.
The University of Arizona has received a $14 million grant to focus on two major types of contaminants: arsenic and halogenated organic solvents like TCE. The research projects will improve hazardous waste management in Arizona and the Southwest, and can serve as a model for arid and semi-arid regions worldwide.
A bacterial community flourishing in iron sulfide-rich runoff near Redding has been uncovered, providing clues to the structure and activities within these communities. The study reveals 2,036 proteins from five most abundant species, shedding light on microbial systems in real-world conditions.
Researchers at UW-Madison develop a system using living microbes as templates for fabricating nanoscale structures. The ability to capture and analyze individual microbes could lead to new ways of assembling nanodevices and detecting biological threats.
UCSB scientists investigate seafloor hydrothermal fluid discharge to uncover insights into the origins of life on Earth. By studying subseafloor microbes and geological formations, researchers aim to understand how early life survived in a challenging environment.
The project aims to present evidence for the existence of ultra-psychrophiles in sub-freezing environments like Alaskan permafrost. The research has broader impacts, including more reliable climate predictions and development of efficient biocatalysts for below freezing temperatures.
Researchers found that microbial diversity increases as the area they occupy increases, suggesting a universal law common to all domains of life. The study has significant implications for understanding ecology and biodiversity of tiny organisms.
A new USGS-led study warns of the limitations and inaccuracies of microbial source tracking methods, which are used to identify sources of contamination. The study found that fewer than 30% of challenge isolates were correctly classified to their source-animal species.
A toxic molecule from bacteria causes massive tissue damage in humans but promotes organ development in a tiny Pacific Ocean squid. This discovery challenges long-held perceptions of microbes and their role as pathogens, highlighting the importance of context-dependent relationships between bacteria and host organisms.
Researchers have detected high levels of triclocarban in Maryland streams, with concentrations up to 5.6 micrograms per liter. Further studies are needed to understand the impact on aquatic life and potential human exposure.
Researchers discover tiny microbes in ancient Greenland glacier that are smaller than common bacteria and can survive extreme conditions. These ultra-small cells have been found to be among the uncultured majority of microbes on Earth and hold secrets to their survival mechanisms.
Scientists have found microscopic life in ancient glacier ice, sparking interest in survival mechanisms of small cells under harsh conditions. The discovery opens up new avenues for research into growing previously unculturable organisms and understanding the limits of microbial life.
A facultative symbiont is identified in pea aphids associated with host plant specialization, increasing fecundity on clover and failure to survive on alfalfa. Genetic data suggests the aphid genome, not symbiont, causes specialization.
Jennie Hunter-Cevera is a renowned microbiologist who has made significant contributions to the field through her innovative techniques for isolating and screening microorganisms. Her work has led to the discovery of new species, enzymes, and products, including antimicrobial, anticancer, and novel herbicidal properties.
A research team found mineralized tubes and DNA associated with microbial activity in ancient basaltic glass samples, suggesting that microbes colonized the early oceanic crust. The discovery provides clues to the origin of life on Earth.
A multinational team of scientists has found microscopic life colonized in ancient volcanic lava dating back nearly 3.5 billion years. The discovery was made in the Barberton Greenstone Belt, a location that was previously thought to be inhospitable for life.
Researchers at U-M and Amherst College used chemical signatures of water to identify areas with microbial gas deposits, a relatively inexpensive analytical tool compared to other methods. This method has potential not just in Michigan but also globally for finding natural gas resources.
The discovery of 1.2 million new genes in Sargasso Sea microbes has significant implications for carbon sequestration and alternative energy production. The genes are part of the larger Genomics: GTL program, which aims to develop innovative solutions to address national energy needs.
Scientists discovered bacteria in deep drill holes on Earth, suggesting similar conditions exist on Mars. The findings imply that microorganisms can thrive in extreme environments, increasing the chances of life existing beyond our planet.
A newly discovered bacterium, Polaromonas naphthalenivorans strain CJ2, has been found to break down naphthalene and other toxins in coal tar contamination. The discovery was made using a new technique called stable isotopic probing (SIP), which allowed researchers to identify the microbe's DNA signature.
Researchers discovered previously unknown fungi groups thriving beneath the snow, recycling carbon and nitrogen, and potentially impacting CO2 levels. The findings prompt a reevaluation of snow-covered regions as 'sinks' for CO2.
Researchers are studying the ecological worlds inside ticks to learn more about tick-borne diseases. The study aims to understand how non-pathogenic microbes displace pathogenic ones, potentially decreasing disease transmission to humans and animals.
The Prevnar vaccine, developed at the University of Rochester, has shown remarkable real-world effectiveness in reducing invasive pneumococcal infections by 69% among children under two years old. This translates to approximately 20,000 fewer cases of infection each year in the United States.
Researchers found that ethylene is vital for plant protection against microorganisms, enabling plants to detect and respond to infections. Modified ethylene-insensitive tobacco plants were more susceptible to diseases due to the lack of ethylene's protective mechanism.
Researchers found microorganisms in seafloor samples from the Juan de Fuca plate, suggesting a microbial incubator of global proportions. The discovery challenges current understanding of oceanic crust and its potential for supporting life.
Researchers at UC Riverside have isolated microorganisms that can degrade up to 90% of the toxic pesticide endosulfan in 15 days. The strains, Fusarium ventricosum and Pandoraea sp., have potential applications for detoxifying contaminated soils and water bodies.
The symposium explored microbial forensics, a discipline combining public health epidemiology and law enforcement to investigate biocrimes. Key findings include recommendations for future action to address biocrimes posing threats to public health and stability.
Researchers discover new life forms living in extreme environments, such as gold mines and volcanic rocks, providing clues to the origins of life on Earth and potentially on Mars. These microorganisms may be using nuclear energy or toxic waste as fuel, shedding light on the diversity of possible fuel sources for life.
Researchers have discovered a novel protein, Ang4, produced by Paneth cells in the intestinal lining that can kill certain types of gut microbes. This finding suggests that Ang4 may play a crucial role in maintaining gut health and preventing infection.
Researchers have found a novel group of bacteria in tropical ocean sediments that produce molecules with potential in treating infectious diseases and cancer. The discovery has opened up a new source for drug discovery, with thousands of strains available.
Researchers have identified two microorganisms, Fusarium and Pandoraea spp., that can degrade the toxicity of endosulfan, a persistent organic pollutant. This breakthrough offers a potential solution for detoxifying contaminated sites, reducing toxic residues in soil.
A University of Massachusetts Amherst study reveals that microorganisms in Boston Harbor sediments can break down PAHs using sulfate, potentially reducing the need for expensive remediation strategies. The findings suggest that natural activity can clean up contaminated harbors without active environmental protection.
A research team from Purdue University and the University of British Columbia has identified a bottleneck in the degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a persistent and hazardous industrial chemical. By breeding bacteria to overcome this hurdle, the team hopes to develop an environmentally friendly solution for cleansing the ...
A team of researchers has discovered that methane-producing microorganisms use a 'pressure valve' mechanism to regulate energy consumption. By allowing hydrogen ions to leak through the cell membrane at high concentrations, the bacteria minimize energy loss and maintain optimal conditions for growth.
A new genetically engineered mouse model shows how pieces of captured germs are carried to the surface of dendritic cells via long tubules. This process improves the efficiency of the immune response by alerting T cells to kill invading germs.
The study provides a comprehensive understanding of the proteome of D. radiodurans, revealing new insights into its remarkable ability to withstand radiation and degrade radioactive materials. The research used advanced mass spectrometry techniques to identify over 1,900 proteins in the bacterium.
Researchers developed Microbial Anti-attachment Technology (MAT), reducing bacteria attachment by 50-58% compared to traditional soaps. The technology uses three cosmetic ingredients to deposit a thin film on skin, blocking bacteria-binding sites and altering surface properties.
Recent URI study reveals two oceanic provinces of deeply buried microbial activity, with high activity found along continental margins where methane and sulfate intersect. Microbial respiration rates differ vastly between open-ocean and continental margin environments.
Researchers at UMass Amherst found that certain microorganisms can transform organic matter commonly found in marine environments into electrical energy. This breakthrough has implications for developing technologies to decontaminate polluted water and sediment, as well as powering subsurface devices.