All Bacteria articles
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NewsPlants influence the composition and function of their surrounding microbiome to suit their needs
An investigation into plant–microbe interactions at the genetic, metabolic and physiological levels revealed that 203 bacterial gene sequences were strongly shaped by the host plant, for example through their metabolic products. One bacterial genus was found to enhance root development even in nitrogen-limited soils.
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NewsClinical data gaps keeping life-saving antibiotics from children
Antibiotics that could treat severe infections in babies and children aren’t accessible due to a lack of data around safety and dosage. Of 12 antibiotics recommended for serious bloodstream infections caused by a harmful, Gram-negative bacteria, only six were licensed in children aged under 12 and just three in babies.
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NewsScientists fight superbugs with nets, light switches - and egg white
A new gel could combat resistant bacteria in wounds and around implant sites, while also supporting healing. The hydrogel, which is inspired by natural immune defences, has produced highly promising results in animal models.
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NewsRisk for Lyme disease in Ohio is equal to Connecticut, study shows
The risk for being bitten by a tick infected with bacteria that cause Lyme disease is as high in Ohio as it is for those living in Northeast states that have dealt with Lyme disease for over 50 years, according to a new study.
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NewsGenes from corn’s wild ancestor change soil microbial community, improve sustainability
Corn bred with genes from wild relatives can reshape soil microbial communities and reduce nitrogen loss — with no yield reduction, according to new research. It’s the first time corn’s genetic makeup has been linked with inhibition of nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria.
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NewsCommon bacteria discovered in the eye linked to cognitive decline
Chlamydia pneumoniae can linger in the eye and brain for years and may aggravate Alzheimer’s disease. Research suggests this bacterium can amplify Alzheimer’s disease and points to potential interventions including inflammation-limiting therapies and early antibiotic treatment.
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NewsHow brick-building bacteria react to toxic chemical in Martian soil
Researchers investigated how bacteria that can mould Martian soil into brick-like structures fare in the presence of perchlorate, a toxic chlorine-containing chemical discovered in Martian soil. It slows down bacterial growth - but surprisingly leads to the formation of stronger bricks.
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NewsHow bacteria learned to target numerous cell types, revealed
A new study shows how bacteria adapted a virus-derived injection system to recognize and attach to many different types of cells. By identifying thousands of rapidly evolving receptor-binding proteins, the researchers explain how these systems can be retargeted in nature by swapping the part that binds to cells.
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NewsGenetic system makes worker cells more resilient producers of nanostructures
Researchers report the development of a new genetic regulatory system to improve cell viability during the production of gas vesicles.
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NewsPediatric investigation study reports significant shifts in post-COVID respiratory infection trends in children
To explore how the pandemic changed respiratory infection trends in children, researchers examined data from 73,096 pediatric patients hospitalized with acute respiratory tract infections in two coastal cities in eastern China with similar climates.
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NewsOne of Earth’s most abundant organisms is surprisingly fragile
A group of ocean bacteria long considered perfectly adapted to life in nutrient-poor waters may be more vulnerable to environmental change than scientists realized. The bacteria, known as SAR11, dominate surface seawater worldwide and can make up as much as 40% of marine bacterial cells.
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NewsNew research finds crosstalk inside cells helps pathogens evade drugs
Biologists have uncovered a new mode of communication inside cells that helps bacterial pathogens learn how to evade drugs. Their findings describe how these mechanisms drive antimicrobial resistance in Listeria monocytogenes, the foodborne bacteria that causes listeriosis.
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NewsNatural sunscreen compounds show potential to support skin health and blood pressure
Researchers have discovered that natural ‘sunscreen’ compounds found in algae and cyanobacteria may also support skin and heart health.
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NewsGut bacteria may tip the balance between feeding tumors and fueling immunity
A new study reveals how bacteria in the gut can help determine whether the amino acid asparagine from the diet will feed tumor growth or activate immune cells against the cancer.
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NewsDissolved bubble microneedles enable more efficient therapy of acne vulgaris
Researchers report a new microneedle-based strategy for acne therapy in a new study. The team developed dissolved bubble microneedle patches that can simultaneously deliver hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs directly into acne-affected skin.
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NewsSepsis study IDs simple ways to save lives in Africa
Tuberculosis (TB) is a major unrecognized cause of deadly sepsis among people with HIV in Africa, a new study reveals. It found that more than half of the hundreds of patients enrolled in the study had TB and that immediate treatment increased their chances of survival significantly.
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NewsFrom biocidal coatings to medicines: A nanocomposite sting for microorganisms
A surface capable of responding to chemical signals generated by microorganisms and automatically producing biocidal substances – a description of how the B-STING silica nanocomposite works. The new material acts as a nanofactory of reactive oxygen species, activating only when necessary.
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NewsRethinking global AMR strategy: the 2024 WHO Bacterial Priority Pathogens List from a One Health perspective
A new perspective examines the World Health Organization’s 2024 Bacterial Priority Pathogens List (WHO BPPL), highlighting its strengths as a research roadmap while identifying critical gaps for a truly holistic antimicrobial resistance (AMR) strategy.
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NewsGlowing bacterial sensors detect gut illness in mice before symptoms emerge
Researchers have engineered gut bacteria that dim their fluorescent glow in the presence of illness. Their findings could improve how we diagnose problems in the gut by using bacteria that already live there.
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NewsHow genes influence the microbes in our mouths
A new study has found human genetic factors that influence the oral microbiome and may increase risk of cavities and tooth loss in some people. Analysis of the now largest collection of oral microbiome profiles reveals interactions between human and bacterial DNA.