Articles tagged with Microorganisms
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers develop autonomous navigation strategies for microswimmers, allowing them to navigate optimally in complex environments. These strategies utilize external stimuli, such as light, to guide the microswimmers and improve their performance.
Researchers propose nitrous oxide as a potential biosignature for exoplanets, detectable by the James Webb Space Telescope. They modeled N2O production on Earth-like planets and found it could be comparable to CO2 or methane in star systems like TRAPPIST-1.
Researchers have discovered that small eddies, swirling at the edges of massive ocean currents, are a key source of nutrients for phytoplankton. These nutrient-rich eddies help maintain healthy populations of phytoplankton, which are essential for carbon sequestration and mitigating climate change effects.
Scientists have discovered several rare microorganisms, including Legendrea loyezae and Lacerus, which were previously unknown to science. The discovery expands our understanding of the tree of life and highlights the importance of microscopic life.
Researchers have isolated a new fungus, Beauveria caledonica, that can be used for biological control of banana borers and Fusarium wilt, two major threats to tropical and subtropical crops. The fungus produces a secondary compound called oosporein, which intensifies its action against the disease.
Scientists at the University of California San Diego have developed a new biodegradable polyurethane material that can break down in seawater, reducing plastic pollution. The material was tested in marine environments and found to be degraded by microorganisms, which consume the chemicals as nutrients.
Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new method to detect intraspecies genomic diversity, or microdiversity, of uncultivated bacteria. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of microbial ecology and evolution, as previously overlooked variations are now being studied.
A novel method developed by Brazilian researchers can analyze bacterial samples without isolating live bacteria, making it easier to detect antibiotic resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae. The technique was tested on 873 samples and found that 51% were sensitive to antibiotics, while 17% were resistant.
A new study by Rice University biologist Tom Miller explores the role of fungi in determining the range limits of plants in Texas. The research reveals that fungal partnerships improve drought tolerance and could potentially extend the range of grasses in response to climate change.
Researchers have genetically engineered yeast to produce vindoline and catharanthine, the precursors to vinblastine, a widely used anti-cancer drug. This breakthrough may lead to new sources of these compounds and reduce dependence on plant farming and logistics challenges.
Researchers simulated a superheated steam dishwasher, finding it kills 99% of bacteria on a plate in just 25 seconds. The technology could also effectively remove food debris with shock waves, making it ideal for restaurants, hotels, and hospitals.
A new biological sensor developed by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has successfully detected hidden rot in potato tubers, one of Israel's chief export industries. The sensor can detect disease before visible symptoms appear, allowing for early identification and prevention of rot and food loss.
A study by Tel Aviv University researchers found a unique oral microbiotic signature in the saliva of veteran soldiers with PTSD, which may help diagnose post-traumatic stress disorder objectively. The study also showed that people with PTSD exhibit the same picture of bacteria in their saliva as those who have experienced combat stres...
A team of researchers at the University of Hawaii collected over 3,000 microbial samples from Waimea Valley's watershed, discovering that microbes follow the food web and are maintained within soil and stream water. The study also found that local distribution of a microbe predicts its global distribution.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that dog gut bacteria can change rapidly after introducing a new diet, with microbial turnover occurring in under a week. The research also confirmed previous findings on the health benefits of high-fiber diets over high-fat and high-protein diets.
Research suggests that climate change may lead to the proliferation of pathogenic fungi in drying soils, which could pose a significant public health threat. The study's findings are being used to inform policymakers on the potential risks of global climate change on soil fungal communities in the US Southwest.
CoVaRR-Net is investing $6.9 million in 15 research projects focused on understanding Omicron subvariants and finding solutions to curb their spread. The studies will explore various aspects of variants, including viral transmission between animals and people, new variant mutations, and the impact of social factors on Indigenous Peoples.
A team of researchers developed a low-energy and efficient way to harvest and concentrate valuable chemicals from microalgae, which can be grown on waste materials. This membrane-based process enables continuous extraction and concentration of secreted metabolites, paving the way for large-scale bio-factories.
New research found that coinfection with influenza A virus can significantly suppress SARS-CoV-2 replication in the lung. This effect can persist even after clearance of influenza A virus, suggesting potential factors that restrict SARS-CoV-2 growth.
Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 surrogates can survive on meat products in the refrigerator or freezer for up to 30 days. The study used chicken, beef, pork, and salmon, as well as viruses with spikes similar to those on SARS-CoV-2.
Gut bacteria produce inositol lipids, vital for cellular processes in humans, and these substances impact the symbiosis between bacteria and their hosts. The discovery sheds light on how gut bacteria thrive in their human hosts.
A mouse study found significant changes in the infant gut microbiome associated with maternal oxycodone exposure. These bacterial changes are linked to alterations in metabolic pathways, suggesting a potential connection between prenatal opioid exposure and long-term health consequences.
A study found that indoor pollutants and human activities impact home biology and chemistry. Researchers detected diverse molecules from skin care products, food, and feces in a test home, with human-derived metabolites dominating the microbiome.
Researchers developed a scalable process for a biodegradable coating that protects against pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms, transportation damage, and reduces weight loss in avocados by 50%. The coating can be rinsed off with water and degrades in soil within three days.
A new study published in mSystems demonstrates that a surface sampling method can detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA on surfaces, improving environmental surveillance in public health labs.
Researchers found that chemical pre-treatment can help microorganisms break down plastics more quickly. The process makes carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen from the plastic's molecular structure more accessible for bacteria to use as food.
A recent study has found that ocean plastic may be a source of novel antibiotics, with researchers isolating five antibiotic-producing bacteria from plastic debris. The isolated bacteria showed promise against commonly used and resistant bacterial strains, providing hope for an alternative solution to the growing antibiotic crisis.
Researchers discovered over 1,200 RNA viruses linked to carbon absorption on the ocean floor. The study suggests engineered viruses could be used as 'knobs' to control carbon storage, potentially slowing climate change.
A study published in eLife has shown that fast-growing bacteria can resist antibiotics by displaying higher ribosome expression, allowing them to avoid macrolide accumulation. This finding highlights a new survival strategy for bacteria and offers potential avenues for developing improved antibiotic compounds.
A recent study published in eLife found that wildlife living in urban environments have picked up some gut bugs from humans, leading to a 'humanization' of their microbiota. The researchers analyzed gut microbiomes in distantly related vertebrates from urban and rural areas and discovered significant differences between the two.
Researchers identified a blood biomarker that predicts severe Crohn's disease and is detectable up to seven years prior to diagnosis. The biomarker neutralizes protective effects of a cytokine, leading to intestinal damage and weakening the immune system.
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have made important discoveries on the crucial role of malnutrition in global tuberculosis, highlighting how gut infections impair treatment outcomes. A new funding partnership will train Tanzanian postdoctoral researchers to work specifically on this intersection.
A UFZ research team has developed a new method called 'mass transfer with a loop' to stabilize microbial communities in bioreactors. This approach prevents the loss of crucial microorganisms, which are essential for various biotechnological processes, by synchronizing their composition and functions.
Researchers have developed a theoretical model explaining how water mould spores move and change direction, revealing a breaststroke-like motion for turning. The study provides insights into the biophysical nature of these microorganisms, which could lead to new avenues in physics research.
A new study suggests that supplementing a diet with Ascidiacea, also known as sea squirts, reverses some main signs of aging in animal models. The researchers found that plasmalogens, vital to body processes, decrease with age and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Seagrasses release massive amounts of sugar into their soils, storing up to 35 times more carbon than forests. Microbes thrive on the sucrose despite phenolics inhibiting metabolism, and beneficial relationships between plants and rhizosphere microorganisms are found.
Researchers have found a group of deep-sea bacteria that stick to plastic, allowing them to 'hitchhike' across the ocean and potentially enhancing microbial connectivity. These bacteria were discovered in the North-East Atlantic and include strains previously isolated from shipwrecks and extreme environments.
Researchers develop new procedure to study microorganisms in shallow-water hydrothermal systems, using incubators on the sea floor to study dynamic communities. They reveal key roles in carbon fixation and adaptation under changing conditions.
New research suggests diverse microbial life existed on Earth at least 3.75 billion years ago, dating back to a time when the planet was still forming. The study, led by UCL researchers, analyzed ancient rock formations and found evidence of complex structures that could not have been created through chemical reactions alone.
Researchers have discovered that bacteria can convert methane into electricity, with 31% efficiency, providing a potential breakthrough for renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in contaminated water sources.
Researchers have engineered probiotic bacteria to produce the dopamine precursor L-DOPA, a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease. The new approach eliminates side effects and reduces treatment complications, offering a promising alternative to existing treatments.
Researchers discover medusavirus undergoes four stages of maturation within host cells, with unique particle structures and DNA-protein exchange mechanisms. The findings provide new insights into giant viruses' biology and behavior.
Colorado State University researchers have developed a system that creates renewable energy while diverting waste from landfills, producing valuable products like sustainable aviation fuel and cleaning solvents. The ReSOURCE system can offset the carbon dioxide equivalent of 6.2 million cars a year.
A University of Illinois review examines how food deserts, poor diet, and racial disparities affect bile acids, gut microbes, and cancer incidence. The study suggests that Western diets contribute to the development of colorectal cancer, particularly among Black Americans.
Researchers have identified Velamenicoccus archaeovorus, an ultramicrobacterium that devours Methanosaeta cells in sewage treatment plants, leading to a new understanding of biomass conversion and recycling in deep sediments. The giant protein encoded by the gene enables it to dissolve cells.
Genetic testing of saliva samples has been shown to be more quick and sensitive than nasal swab testing for detecting SARS-CoV-2 virus, with implications for improving public acceptance of COVID-19 testing and reducing healthcare worker risks
Researchers have discovered that sea sponges themselves produce biologically active compounds, including terpenes with potential malaria-fighting properties. This finding represents a 'fundamental shift' in the field and opens up new avenues for drug discovery using animals as vessels.
A new color catalog of icy planet surface signatures has been created to aid in the search for life on frozen worlds. The catalog, based on microorganisms found in subarctic conditions, provides a tool for comparing Earth's biological microbes with those on other planets.
Scientists propose a new mechanism by which oxygen accumulated in the atmosphere, shifting the planet out of its low-oxygen equilibrium. Interactions between certain marine microbes and minerals in ocean sediments may have prevented oxygen consumption, setting off a self-amplifying process.
An international research team analyzed the microbial community living on the carapaces of deep-sea squat lobsters, finding a diverse microbiome that likely provides benefits to both organisms. The microbes utilize energy-rich chemical compounds, while the squat lobsters may use them as a source of nutrients or have them remove toxic s...
A new study will measure the effectiveness of oral hygiene in preventing non-ventilator hospital-acquired pneumonia (NVHAP) among hospitalized patients. NVHAP is the most deadly and costly type of hospital-acquired infection, affecting approximately one in 100 hospitalized patients.
Researchers discovered that gut bacteria can awaken dormant viruses by producing colibactin, leading to cell-killing infections. This finding suggests a possible link between colibactin-producing bacteria and cancer, potentially benefiting the bacteria's own survival.
A new bacterial strain, Noda2021, belonging to Candidatus phylum Dependentiae has been isolated and sequenced, revealing its genetic material and potential ecological significance. This discovery sheds light on the diversity of microorganisms in Japan's microbiological hotspots.
A study discovered that fungus Cyanodermella asteris synthesizes valuable compounds in plant Aster tataricus, influencing its growth. The interaction reveals a two-way dialogue between the microbe and host, with the fungus producing beneficial compounds while also being influenced by plant hormones.
Berkeley Lab researchers are working on a two-year project to develop a roadmap for Puerto Rico to meet its 100% renewable energy mandate. The study aims to analyze pathways, power system reliability, and generation planning. Meanwhile, a new fungal strain has been discovered in a spacecraft assembly facility named after Berkeley Lab m...
A team of researchers found that many marine phytoplankton are voracious predators, consuming bacteria like Prochlorococcus and other primary production. This discovery reveals the complexity of ocean ecosystems and challenges traditional views of phytoplankton as solely photosynthetic organisms.
A cloud-based repository called CellRepo has been launched to track and organize digital data from engineered microorganisms. The database uses cell barcodes to monitor and track organisms, enabling faster tracing of lab origins and design details.
A team of researchers discovered that chance plays a significant role in the formation of individual gut microbiomes, with genetic, diet, and environmental factors influencing the odds of colonization. The study's findings have major implications for treatments like fecal transplants and probiotics.
Scientists discovered massive sponge gardens thriving on top of seamounts in the Central Arctic Ocean, dominated by sponges that feed on remnants of an extinct fauna. Microorganisms support the sponges in exploiting this fluffy material as a source of food and energy.
Researchers found massive sponge gardens on extinct underwater volcanoes, dominated by sponges that feed on microbial symbionts and organic matter. The unique ecosystem supports thousands of years of life, with sponges acting as ecosystem engineers to create their own food trap.