Bacteria

New Research Project Targets ECF-T Transport Protein to Starve Resistant Bacteria

New research project aims to develop novel active substances to combat antimicrobial resistance. Prof. Anna Hirsch and her team at the Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland have identified a potential target structure, the transport protein ECF-T, which could be disrupted by new drugs to starve resistant bacteria. This approach could lead to the development of effective antibiotics that address previously unused target structures in pathogens.

Study Finds Listeria monocytogenes Bacteria Persist in Ready-to-Eat Food Production Environments

A recent study by scientists from the Quadram Institute and the UK Health Security Agency found that Listeria monocytogenes bacteria can persist in ready-to-eat food production environments despite cleaning. The researchers discovered stable bacterial populations coexisting with L. monocytogenes, suggesting the need for new strategies to alter entire bacterial populations for complete pathogen elimination. The study’s lead scientist, Dr. María Díaz, emphasized the importance of cleaning in reducing bacterial load and mitigating cross-contamination, while also noting significant differences in bacterial populations in areas of the facility kept at different temperatures.

Attack and defence in the microverse

Research team at University of Jena examines the interaction of attack and defence strategies when cholera-causing bacteria are infected with a bacteriophage. Tiny RNA molecules play a decisive role in the complex interaction. The findings have been published in Cell Host & Microbe.

Ancient teeth reveal abundance of bacteria causing tooth decay and gum disease

Discovery of ancient teeth with high levels of cavity-causing bacteria sheds light on the impact of diet changes over the past 4,000 years. The rare find in Ireland’s County Limerick suggests that the prevalence of cavities today may be linked to the consumption of refined sugar and processed foods, which were not part of the ancient human diet.

CDC Issues Health Alert for Rare Bacterial Infection

The CDC has issued a health alert regarding a rare bacterial infection, invasive meningococcal disease, which can quickly become fatal. Meningitis, caused by Neisseria meningitidis, can attack the brain, spinal cord, and bloodstream, posing a serious threat to public health. The bacteria can be carried in a person’s nose and throat without causing illness, but individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infection. The CDC has identified four different groups of meningococcal bacteria circulating in the United States, with the Y bacterial group spreading across the nation. The fatality rate in the cases identified this year stands at about 1 in 6 people, higher than the typical rate observed by the CDC for meningococcal infections. The CDC recommends two vaccines to combat the infection and urges the public to stay informed and take necessary precautions.

Study Links Common Bacteria to Stomach Cancer Development

A new study has found that the typically harmless bacteria, Helicobacter pylori, may play a significant role in the development of stomach cancer. Researchers have identified the mechanism through which this bacteria operates, potentially paving the way for the development of therapeutics to mitigate the risk. The study focused on examining the non-H. pylori gut microbiome in patients with varying stages of gastric cancer, revealing the enrichment of five oral pathogens in the gastric linings of these patients, including Streptococcus anginosus. Through the use of mouse models, researchers observed that colonization with S. anginosus initiated an acute inflammatory response, followed by a chronic phase characterized by intense and persistent gastritis, mirroring the pathway observed in humans before the onset of gastric cancer. Co-infection with S. anginosus and H. pylori resulted in greater gastric inflammation than either pathogen alone, suggesting a potential synergistic effect in promoting gastric cancer.

Study Reveals Role of Neonatal Gut Bacteria in Serotonin Production and Immune Tolerance

A recent study in Science Immunology reveals the role of neonatal gut bacteria in producing serotonin and promoting immune tolerance. The study emphasizes the significance of early bacterial colonization in children with conditions such as asthma and food allergies. Understanding the impact of neonatal gut bacteria on serotonin production is crucial for comprehending immune tolerance development and addressing related conditions.

New Bacteria Found in 50% of Colon Cancers, Study Reveals

Groundbreaking study in Nature reveals new bacteria found in 50% of colon cancers, with potential implications for treatment and screening. Colon cancer rates among younger individuals have nearly doubled, prompting concern and speculation about the role of this bacteria in the surge. This discovery offers potential for targeted treatments and improved screening protocols to combat the growing threat of colon cancer.

Age and Gender Impact Antibiotic Resistance, Study Finds

A recent study has found that age and gender play key roles in antibiotic resistance, with the likelihood of having a bloodstream infection resistant to antibiotics being linked to these factors. The study, which involved almost one million individuals across Europe, revealed different antimicrobial resistance trends for various bloodstream infections. Understanding these patterns is crucial for developing better strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance and safeguard individuals from challenging infections.

Canadian Lake Bacterium Shines New Light on Ancient Photosynthesis

University of Waterloo PhD student turns a failed experiment into a groundbreaking discovery, shedding new light on ancient photosynthesis. The unexpected bacterial sample from a Canadian lake has the potential to revolutionize scientific understanding of photosynthesis and its origins, showcasing the importance of embracing unexpected outcomes in scientific exploration.