Ancient Bacteria Discovery Redefines Syphilis Origins: A Breakthrough in Medical History

Posted on January 23, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Treponema pallidum Bacteria Linked to Syphilis and Related Diseases

Source: Science Photo Library / Alamy

New research reveals that traces of Treponema pallidum—the bacteria responsible for syphilis—have been identified in the bones of ancient inhabitants of Colombia, dating back over 5,000 years. This discovery suggests that syphilis was infecting humans far earlier than previously believed, prior to the advent of intensive agriculture, which many experts think may have facilitated its spread.

Currently, Treponema pallidum encompasses three subspecies that cause syphilis, bejel, and framboise. The origins and transmission pathways of these diseases remain topics of scientific debate. Although ancient DNA and infectious markers on bones offer insights, they are often limited and ambiguous.

In a groundbreaking study, researchers analyzed DNA from 5,500-year-old remains discovered in the Bogotá savannah. The unexpected finding of Treponema pallidum in a human leg bone provides critical evidence of its historical prevalence.

“This discovery was entirely unanticipated, as there was a lack of skeletal evidence indicating an infectious disease,” notes Nasreen Broumandkoshbacht from the University of California, Santa Cruz.

Many scholars have long posited that the majority of diseases affected humans only after the rise of intensive agriculture, which led to denser populations. However, this individual lived in a contrasting setting—small, nomadic hunter-gatherer bands that maintained close contact with wild animals.

“These results shed light on the extensive evolutionary history of these organisms,” states Davide Bozzi from the University of Lausanne, Switzerland. “They reveal longstanding relationships between the bacterium and human populations.”

As researchers, including Blumandhoschbacht and Bozzi, correlated ancient genomes with contemporary ones, they identified that the pallidum strain was part of a distinct lineage, separate from any known modern relatives. This indicates that early variants of syphilis were already diversifying and infecting humans in the Americas millennia ago, with many of the same genetic traits that make present-day strains particularly pathogenic.

The findings imply that these pathogens were not only early residents in the Americas but may have been affecting human populations globally for much longer than previously assumed.

Rodrigo Barquera, a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany, suggests that this ancient strain might link to an elusive “missing” pathogen, Treponema carathaeum, known primarily for its physical characteristics rather than its genetic makeup.

Kertu Majumdar, a researcher at the University of Zurich in Switzerland, posits, “The genomes of even older organisms might provide insights into a variety of extinct lineages and diseases caused by these pathogens.”

For Bozzi, unearthing the evolutionary adaptations of pathogens like syphilis is crucial for understanding their genetic attributes that enhance their virulence in new hosts.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How Bacteria and Viruses Collaborate to Combat Cancer: Insights from Sciworthy

Posted on January 22, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The history of cancer can be traced back to ancient Egyptian civilizations, where it was thought to be a divine affliction. Over the years, great strides have been made in understanding cancer’s causes and exploring diverse treatment options, although none have proven to be foolproof. Recently, a research team at Columbia University has pioneered a novel method for combating cancerous tumors by utilizing a combination of bacteria and viruses.

The researchers engineered this innovative strategy by infecting bacterial cells with Typhimurium that were modified to carry the Seneca virus A. The theory posited that when tumor cells engulf these bacteria, they would also take in the virus, which would then replicate within the cells, leading to their death and the subsequent distribution of the virus to surrounding cells. This technique has been termed Coordinated Activities of Prokaryotes and Picornaviruses for Safe Intracellular Delivery (CAPPSID).

Initially, the research team verified that Typhimurium was a suitable host for Seneca virus A. They infected a limited number of these bacteria with a modified variant of the virus that emitted fluorescent RNA. Subsequently, they applied a solution that facilitated viral entry into the bacteria. Using fluorescence microscopy, they confirmed the presence of viral RNA inside the bacterial cells, validating the infection. To further assist the viral RNA in escaping the bacteria and reaching cancer cells, the researchers added two proteins, ensuring that viral spread was contained to prevent infection of healthy cells.

After optimizing the bacteria and virus, the team tested the viral delivery system on cervical cancer samples. They found that viral RNA could replicate both outside of bacterial cells and inside cancer cells. Notably, newly synthesized RNA strands were identified within tumor cells, confirming the successful delivery and replication of the virus through the CAPPSID method.

Next, the researchers examined CAPPSID’s impact on a type of lung cancer known as small cell lung cancer (SCLC). By tracking fluorescent viral RNA within SCLC cells, they assessed the rate of viral dissemination post-infection. Remarkably, the virus continued to propagate at a consistent rate for up to 24 hours following the initial infection, demonstrating effective spread through cancerous tissue without losing vigor.

In a follow-up experiment, the researchers evaluated the CAPPSID method on two groups of five mice, implanting SCLC tumors on both sides of their backs. They engineered the Seneca virus A to generate a bioluminescent enzyme for tracking purposes and injected the CAPPSID bacteria into the tumors on the right side. Two days post-injection, the right-side tumor glowed, indicating active viral presence. After four days, the left-side tumor also illuminated, suggesting that the virus had successfully navigated throughout the mice’s bodies while sparing healthy tissues.

The treatment continued for 40 days, leading to complete tumor regression within just two weeks. Remarkably, upon observation over a subsequent 40-day period, the mice demonstrated a 100% survival rate, with no recurrence of cancer or significant side effects. The research team observed that the CAPPSID virus, being encapsulated by bacteria, could circumvent the immune response, thus preventing cancer cells from building immunity against it.

Finally, to prevent uncontrolled replication of Seneca virus A, the researchers isolated a gene from a tobacco virus responsible for producing an enzyme that activates a crucial protein in Seneca virus A. By incorporating this gene into the Typhimurium bacteria, they were able to independently produce this enzyme, ensuring the virus could not replicate or spread without the bacteria’s presence. Follow-up tests confirmed that this modified CAPPSID method improved viral spread while maintaining confinement within cancer-affected areas.

The research findings hold promising potential for the development of advanced cancer therapies. The remarkable regression of tumors in mice and the targeted delivery system of CAPPSID—without adverse effects—could lead to safer cancer treatments for human patients, eliminating the need for radiation or harmful chemicals. However, the researchers also cautioned about the risk of viral and bacterial mutations that may limit the effectiveness of CAPPSID and cause unforeseen side effects. They suggested that enhancing the system with additional tobacco virus-derived enzymes could help mitigate these challenges, paving the way for future research into innovative cancer therapies.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Common Types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Linked to Harmful Bacteria

Posted on November 20, 2025 by

Ulcerative colitis is characterized by inflammation of the colon and rectum lining.

BSIP SA/Alamy

Toxins from bacteria in contaminated water can destroy immune cells in the colon’s lining. This implies that individuals whose intestines host these bacteria are significantly more likely to develop ulcerative colitis.

This conclusion is derived from a series of studies undertaken with both humans and animals by Shwena Chan and colleagues at Nanjing University, China. If validated, these findings could pave the way for new treatment options.

Ulcerative colitis is one of the primary types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), marked by inflammation of the colon and rectum lining. Symptoms typically fluctuate between periods of remission and flare-ups, sometimes necessitating the removal of the colon in severe cases.

The exact cause of ulcerative colitis remains unclear, although it is often regarded as an autoimmune disorder influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Chan’s team theorized that immune cells called macrophages might be integral to the condition.

Macrophages are found throughout various body tissues, performing the dual roles of clearing debris and bacteria while regulating local immune responses. They can signal additional immune cell recruitment and initiate inflammation but are equally important in mitigating it.

Researchers discovered that the density of resident macrophage cells was notably reduced in colon tissue from patients with ulcerative colitis compared to those without the condition. Further experimentation demonstrated that depleting macrophages in mice increased their susceptibility to colitis, suggesting that losing macrophage protection leads to colon damage and inflammation.

But what accounts for the lower macrophage levels in ulcerative colitis patients? By analyzing fecal samples, the research team identified a toxin named aerolysin, which significantly harms macrophages while sparing other intestinal cells.

Aerolysin is secreted by several strains of bacteria belonging to the genus Aeromonas, frequently found in freshwater and brackish environments. The strains responsible for producing aerolysin are referred to as MTB (macrophage-toxic bacteria).

In experiments where mice were deliberately infected with MTB, they exhibited greater vulnerability to colitis. Conversely, even after removing the aerolysin gene from the bacteria or neutralizing the toxin with antibodies, the mice did not show increased susceptibilities to the condition.

Ultimately, the research team tested for Aeromonas in stool samples, discovering its presence in 72% of the 79 patients with ulcerative colitis, versus only 12% among 480 individuals without the condition. This test, however, could not confirm if these bacteria were indeed MTB or if they produced aerolysin.

The findings offer a nuanced perspective. Not every case of ulcerative colitis is linked to MTB, and some individuals can carry MTB without developing the disease.

“We cannot assert that MTB is the exclusive cause of ulcerative colitis,” Zhang states. “Ongoing MTB infection can create a hypersensitive environment in the colon, yet not everyone infected will develop colitis.”

“Environmental and genetic factors certainly influence the emergence of colitis,” she adds.

According to Zhang, there are at least three potential approaches for new treatment development. One involves creating drugs to neutralize the toxin; another would focus on vaccines targeting the toxin or the bacteria producing it; while a third approach seeks to eradicate toxin-producing bacteria via phage therapy, which utilizes viruses that selectively kill specific bacteria.

“The leading theory posits that MTB toxin depletes specialized macrophages in the intestinal lining, undermining intestinal immunity,” explains Dr. Martin Kriegel from the University Hospital of Münster, Germany.

He has observed that when the team eradicated all intestinal bacteria in mice and subsequently infected them with MTB, their susceptibility to colitis diminished. This observation indicates that other yet-to-be-identified bacterial species could also play a role.

“Nonetheless, this may represent a crucial, overlooked factor in the multi-step development of ulcerative colitis, especially in China,” Kriegel suggests.

Zhang and her research group intend to conduct more extensive epidemiological studies to substantiate the association between MTB and ulcerative colitis. If MTB infection is confirmed and becomes increasingly prevalent, it may elucidate the rising incidence of IBD.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Bacteria Enhance the Effectiveness of Cancer-Killing Viruses

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Herpes Virus Assists in Treating Severe Skin Cancer

Science Photo Library/Alamy

The virus exhibits significant promise in treating various cancer types, yet immune responses limit its use primarily to tumors located near the skin’s surface. Current research demonstrates that employing genetically modified bacteria to envelop these viruses may mitigate this issue, effectively slowing the advancement of aggressive tumors in mouse models.

Several treatments utilizing oncolytic viruses have received global approval for targeting cancers of the skin, brain, and head and neck. These methods often involve injecting engineered viruses directly into tumors, which then disperse and destroy cancer cells.

However, targeting deeper tumors necessitates injecting the virus into the bloodstream, where the immune system swiftly eradicates it before it can reach the desired site.

To circumvent this challenge, Zachary Singer and his team at Columbia University, New York, are using genetically modified Salmonella Typhimurium bacteria that do not elicit a strong immune response. These bacteria have been engineered to harbor the genome of Seneca virus A, a virus shown to effectively eliminate human cancer cells in laboratory and animal studies.

“We are adopting a Trojan horse strategy where bacteria conceal the virus [from the immune system],” remarks Singer. These bacteria are designed to infiltrate cancer cells and release copies of the viral genome upon entry.

To test their hypothesis, researchers induced neurotumors on mice’s backs. A week later, they administered the bacteria carrying the virus. This was referred to as a capsid, which entered about half the mouse’s blood. The other group received Seneca virus A without the bacteria.

Within a day, they noted that fluorescent-tagged capsids had concentrated within the tumor, a reaction that typically dampens the immune response. In contrast, capsids remaining in the bloodstream or reaching healthy tissue were swiftly eliminated by the immune system, according to Singer.

On average, tumors in the Seneca virus A-only group reached their maximum size in 11 days, necessitating euthanasia for ethical reasons. Conversely, tumors in the capsid group took 21 days to reach the same size, with no mice experiencing notable side effects.

“The data appears truly remarkable,” states Guy Simpson from the University of Surrey, UK. The findings have shown effectiveness against rapidly growing tumors, particularly those arising from neurons, but he suggests it may be even more beneficial for slower-growing tumors.

In a separate aspect of the experiment, the researchers discovered that the capsid entirely eradicated human lung tumors implanted on mouse backs, yet they did not include controls that received Seneca virus A on its own.

Before human trials, additional studies on mice and non-human primates should assess its efficacy against a broader spectrum of tumors, including pancreatic cancer, which has notoriously low survival rates, advises Simpson.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Rising Threat of Carnivorous Bacteria in Florida and Louisiana

Posted on August 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The number of fatalities linked to “carnivorous” bacteria is increasing along the southeast coast of the US. Five individuals in Florida, Four in Louisiana, and One in the Outer Banks have succumbed this year to infections that can lead to necrotic wounds.

The culprit, the bacterium Vibrio vulnificus, thrives in warm seawater. According to the state health department, Florida has reported 16 cases so far this year. Louisiana has reported 17 cases, exceeding last year’s average. North Carolina has recorded seven incidents, confirmed by its Department of Health and Human Services, while Mississippi has filed three lawsuits this year, as per the state’s health department.

The initial fatalities in Florida were documented in Bay County along the Gulf Coast, as well as Hillsboro County and regions in Broward and St. John’s Counties, located just south of Jacksonville in southeastern Florida.

Bacteria can enter the body through skin wounds, resulting in tissue necrosis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, vibrio vulnificus can also be contracted via the consumption of contaminated food, particularly raw oysters. The exact means of infection for those in Florida remains unclear.

As reported by the CDC, approximately one in five individuals infected with Vibrio vulnificus will die.

Antalpreet Jutt, a professor of engineering at the University of Florida, noted that while infections are still relatively rare, “something feels off this year.” Nevertheless, he mentioned the uncertainty around the reasons behind the spike in infections.

“This is definitely not normal,” Jutt expressed. “We haven’t encountered this many cases early in the summer in quite some time.”

Jutt explained that cases of Vibrio vulnificus tend to rise following hurricanes. Last year, Florida registered a total of 82 cases, potentially worsened by an “extremely active” hurricane season when bacteria can persist in floodwaters.

“This year, it seems there are a higher number of pathogens than usual,” he remarked.

The current hurricane season is still projected to be above average as the US enters its peak period, as reported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Jutt’s research group is examining why there are elevated concentrations of plankton and chlorophyll (indicators of Vibrio) throughout the Florida panhandle, which he describes as a concerning trend.

What is Vibrio vulnificus?

Rita Colwell, a microbiology professor at the University of Maryland, states that Vibrio vulnificus is one of over 200 species of Vibrio bacteria.

Most Vibrio infections are not harmful to humans, according to Jutt. Some may only impact marine life.

However, Vibrio bacteria are responsible for around 80,000 infections annually, as reported by the Cleveland Clinic. The majority of these cases are gastrointestinal, with only 100-200 cases arising from Vibrio vulnificus. Other Vibrio species, such as Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio alginolyticus, are more commonly associated with stomach illnesses, while another, Vibrio cholerae, is known to cause cholera.

Vibrio bacteria are primarily found along the southeastern coast of the United States, favoring warmer waters, but are also present on the west coast. With rising sea temperatures, cases have increasingly been reported further north, including areas in New York, Connecticut, and parts of Maryland, Jutt noted.

Who is at risk?

Dr. Norman Beatty, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Florida Health, mentioned that spending time in salty or brackish waters can lead to Vibrio bacteria infiltrating open wounds. Most cases he has encountered are associated with extended exposure to the water, though even short contact can be sufficient.

Visible symptoms of infection can develop within hours, including redness, swelling, and the formation of “bull” blisters. This site can become painful. If the infection progresses, it may enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to sepsis, which can be fatal. According to the CDC, symptoms of sepsis include fever, chills, and dangerously low blood pressure.

Jutt mentioned that individuals with cirrhosis, weakened immune systems, and those over 65 are particularly vulnerable to infections.

Infections caused by Vibrio vulnificus can be treated with antibiotics.

How to prevent Vibrio infection

Beatty advises covering any open wounds before entering the ocean, noting that even waterproof band-aids can be effective.

Individuals who suspect they have an infection should seek immediate medical attention, Beatty cautioned. Delays can significantly increase the risk of severe complications compared to milder cases.

“Late presentations to healthcare are why many individuals suffer more serious consequences than others,” he stated. “Those who seek treatment shortly after the onset of symptoms, and are given antibiotics promptly, are likely to fare better and avoid severe complications.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Meet the Individual Linked to Four Deaths from Carnivorous Bacteria in Florida

Posted on July 19, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

This year, four individuals in Florida have succumbed to a bacterial infection that can lead to “carnivorous” wounds, as reported by the State Health Department this month.

The culprit is the bacterium Vibrio vulnificus, which flourishes in warm seawater. The fatalities occurred in counties along the Gulf Coast, stretching from Bay County to Hillsboro County, encompassing much of Florida’s coastline.

According to the state health department, Florida has recorded 11 instances of Vibrio vulnificus this year. The bacteria can infiltrate the body through open skin wounds, leading to tissue death, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Additionally, consumption of contaminated food, especially raw oysters, can also result in infection. The exact means of infection for those affected in Florida remain unclear.

The CDC indicates that approximately one in five individuals infected with Vibrio vulnificus will die.

Antacarit Jutra, an engineering professor at the University of Florida, is investigating Vibrio bacteria and mentions that while infections are relatively uncommon, instances tend to rise following hurricanes. Last year, Florida reported a total of 82 cases, likely exacerbated by a “very active” hurricane season.

What is Vibrio vulnificus?

Rita Colwell, a microbiology professor at the University of Maryland, states that Vibrio vulnificus is among over 200 species of Vibrio bacteria.

Most Vibrio infections do not pose a threat to humans, Jutra notes. Some may only affect other animals.

Vibrio bacteria result in roughly 80,000 infections annually, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Most cases are gastrointestinal, with only 100-200 attributed to Vibrio vulnificus. Other Vibrio species, like Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio alginolyticus, usually cause gastrointestinal diseases, while Vibrio cholerae is responsible for cholera-related diarrhea.

Vibrio bacteria typically inhabit the southeastern coast of the United States where warm waters are prevalent, but they are also found along the west coast. As ocean temperatures rise, more cases have emerged further north in recent years, including areas like New York, Connecticut, and parts of Maryland, according to Jutla.

Who is at risk?

Dr. Norman Beatty, an infectious disease physician at the University of Florida Health, points out that Vibrio bacteria can enter through open wounds after exposure to salty or brackish water. While most cases he has encountered are linked to prolonged exposure, even short bouts can be sufficient.

Symptoms of infection may appear within just a few hours, including redness, swelling, and “bull” blisters at the site, which can be quite painful. If left untreated, the infection may spread into the bloodstream and lead to sepsis, which can be fatal. Symptoms of sepsis encompass fever, chills, and severe hypotension, as per the CDC.

Individuals with cirrhosis, weakened immune systems, and those over 65 years old are at the highest risk of infection, according to Jutla.

Antibiotics can effectively treat Vibrio vulnificus infections.

How to prevent vibrio infection

Beatty advises covering any open wounds before entering the ocean, noting that even waterproof band-aids can be effective.

If anyone suspects they have an infection, they should seek medical attention immediately, as delays can lead to severe complications.

“Late presentations to healthcare are often the reason some individuals experience more serious consequences than others,” he explains. “Those who present early with signs and symptoms of infection and receive antibiotics on the same day tend to fare better and avoid severe complications.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Dozens of US Beaches to Close by July 4th Due to Fecal Bacteria Contamination

Posted on July 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Right before the extended Independence Day weekend, numerous beaches nationwide were closed due to high levels of harmful bacteria, accompanied by health advisories. The issue stems from fecal waste, a prevalent summer concern in both freshwater and ocean areas, which can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses and skin infections.

At least six states have enacted beach or lake closures and advisories. Testing revealed unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in various waterways. In Massachusetts, nearly 20 beaches are closed due to elevated bacterial counts. In New York, four beaches have been shut down. Illinois has issued at least eight advisories over recent weeks. Los Angeles County announced 8 ocean water quality advisories as of Tuesday. Three beaches in Michigan have been closed.

The bacteria posing threats to summer swimmers include E. coli and enterococcus. Contamination may result from sewage, fertilizers, or stormwater runoff. E. coli is often found in freshwater environments, while enterococcus can develop in both oceans and freshwater.

Edward Dudley, the director of Penn State’s E. coli reference center, noted that testing for swimming waters is a standard practice, as are the subsequent closures.

Antalpreet Jutla, an associate professor of environmental engineering science at the University of Florida, mentioned that beach closures tend to occur during the summer months when surface temperatures rise and bacteria can proliferate more easily. However, he emphasized that various factors — including human activities, temperature, and water movement — can influence bacterial growth.

Jutla also reiterated that closures due to fecal bacteria are quite common.

In North Carolina, authorities cautioned about a cyanobacteria algae bloom in Lake Norman, advising people to keep children and pets away from water that appears bright green, blue, or scummy. Unlike fecal bacteria, cyanobacteria are one of the primary causes of algae in freshwater environments, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Research indicates that climate change may cause more frequent cyanobacteria blooms.

The Environmental Protection Agency has established guidelines for safe levels of fecal bacteria and recommends water quality and monitoring standards. Some Illinois beaches undergo testing every two weeks.

“Generally, the higher the level, the greater the risk,” Dudley stated.

Fecal waste can result in numerous harmful diseases, but experts are increasingly concerned about the recent rise in another dangerous bacterium, Vibrio.

Vibrio is a potentially lethal bacterium responsible for similar beach closures in the recent past. These carnivorous bacteria flourish in warm coastal waters. Jutla noted that he has observed Vibrio gradually migrating northward across the US. Testing for this bacterium varies based on specific conditions and concentration thresholds.

“While trends nationwide seem unusual at the moment, it’s something we’re particularly worried about: its presence in coastal waters,” Jutla remarked regarding Vibrio.

The deadly V. vulnificus is a rare type of bacterium, yet infections have surged in recent years due to warmer seawater along the US East Coast.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Two Parasitic Bacteria Discovered in 99-Million-Year-Old Amber

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The fossilized bacteria from Cachin Amber in Central Cretaceous belong to the same family as the zombie ant bacteria, ophiocordyceps unilateralis, which has become well-known as the inspiration for various popular apocalyptic video games and TV series, such as Our Last.

Ecological reconstruction of Cretaceous insects and insect pathogenic fungi. The ants have abandoned the infected PUP, and the infected fly is located on the trunk of a distant tree. Image credit: Zhuang et al., doi: 10.1098/rspb.2025.0407.

Two newly identified species, Paleoophiocordyceps gerontoformicae and Paleoophiocordyceps Ironomyiae, represent some of the oldest fossil records of animals and pathogenic fungi.

These specimens were discovered in 99-million-year-old fragments of Kachin amber, sourced from a mine near the village of Neuebham in northern Myanmar.

“Insects and fungi are among the most diverse groups of living organisms, cohabiting Earth’s ecosystems for over 400 million years,” explains Professor Edmund Jalsenbowski, a paleontologist at the Geology, Paleontology and Natural History Museum in London, along with his colleagues from the Nanjing Institute of Studies.

“Consequently, they have developed intricate and close ecological relationships, including reciprocity, predation, and parasitism.”

“Entomopathogenic fungi, in particular, have garnered attention for their role in regulating insect populations, though much remains unclear about them.”

“The infection process begins when spores come into contact with the proper host, initiating germination through enzymatic hydrolysis, allowing entry into the insect’s body cavity (hemocoel).”

“Once the fungus infiltrates the insect’s body, it (as yeast-like cells at this phase) proliferates via budding, consuming the host’s body from within.”

“Eventually, the host typically succumbs to fungal toxins, leading to the formation of chains of yeast-like cells that transition to the filamentous stage shortly after the host’s death.”

“These filaments gradually organize into compact spore-producing structures (sporocaps) that emerge from the softer parts of the insect, dispersing spores into the environment to infect additional hosts.”

Holotype of Paleoophiocordyceps Ironomyiae. This comparison of mid-Cretaceous specimens shows similarities with existing Bacillus ophiocordis: (a, b) Lateral and dorsal views of the bipteran host, where potential fungal structures are visible. (c) Closure of the fungal stroma of Paleoophiocordyceps Ironomyiae; (D, E) Apex of the fungal stroma. The red arrows indicate the surroundings. (f, g, h) Presence of ophiocordyceps stromas for Ant and Dipteran hosts. Scale bars – 0.5 mm (a, b), 0.1 mm (c) and 50 μm (d, e). Image credit: Zhuang et al., doi: 10.1098/rspb.2025.0407.

According to the authors, Paleoophiocordyceps gerontoformicae was found in a young ant, while Paleoophiocordyceps Ironomyiae was discovered on a fly.

“It’s captivating to observe that some of the unusual phenomena we witness today were also present during the age of dinosaurs,” remarked Professor Jarzembowski.

“Known as a zombie fungus, it can influence the behavior of its host, a feature that has been depicted in popular apocalyptic video games and series like Our Last.”

“Given that the infection is lethal, ophiocordyceps and its fossil counterparts likely played a significant role in regulating insect populations during the Middle Cretaceous, similar to how their modern relatives do today.”

“While parasitism is common in today’s ecosystems, evidence of these interactions is seldom found in the fossil record.”

“This is primarily due to the poor preservation of their soft tissues in fossils and the fact that they reside within their hosts, making identification among insect remains challenging.”

“While ancient parasite specimens have been uncovered, our understanding of their evolution remains limited.”

“This new discovery provides rare insight into these parasites from a long-ago era.”

The team’s research paper was published in the June 2025 issue of Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biology.

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Yuhui Zhuang et al. Cretaceous insect pathogenic fungi illuminate the early evolution of insect-fungal associations. Proc. R. Soc. B 292 (2048): 20250407; doi: 10.1098/rspb.2025.0407

Source: www.sci.news

Common Gut Bacteria Can Transform Everyday Plastic Waste into Paracetamol

Posted on June 25, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a pain reliever traditionally produced from a diminished supply of fossil fuels, such as crude oil. Every year, thousands of tons of fossil fuels, alongside numerous drugs and chemicals, are utilized to transport painkillers to manufacturing facilities. Professor Stephen Wallace from the University of Edinburgh and his team discovered that E. coli bacteria can transform molecules derived from waste plastic bottles into paracetamol.

Johnson et al. Reporting the reorganization of phosphate-catalyzed loss of biocompatibility in bacteria E. coli Activated acylhydroxamate is transformed into primary amine-containing metabolites in living cells. Image credit: Johnson et al. , doi: 10.1038/s41557-025-01845-5.

The issue of plastic waste is increasingly pressing, making the quest for sustainable plastic upcycling solutions a priority.

Metabolic engineering combines organic chemistry with the exploitation of biological cell chemical reaction networks to create new small molecules.

However, it remains uncertain whether these reactions can be effectively combined to convert plastics into useful products.

“Our research indicates that polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic is not merely waste, but can be converted by microorganisms into valuable new products with potential applications in disease treatment,” stated Professor Wallace.

In their study, Professor Wallace and co-authors found that a specific type of chemical reaction, known as loss rearrangement, occurs within living cells and is catalyzed by internal phosphates in E. coli.

This reaction produces nitrogen-containing organic compounds that are vital for cellular metabolism.

The researchers demonstrated that chemical processes can decompose PET plastic to yield starting molecules for further reactions, allowing cellular metabolism to regenerate these plastic-derived molecules.

Additionally, they discovered that this plastic-derived compound can serve as a precursor for paracetamol production in E. coli, achieving a yield of 92%.

This finding may mark the first instance of paracetamol synthesized from E. coli waste materials.

Future research will focus on exploring how other bacteria and types of plastics can yield beneficial products.

“Thus, biocompatible chemistry should be viewed as a complement to early enzyme design research and non-biological chemistry engineering, integrating collaboratively as a tool for biological cells to enhance potential synthetic chemistry within biological systems,” the scientists noted.

The team’s study was published in the journal Nature Chemistry on June 23, 2025.

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NW Johnson et al. Relocation of loss of biocompatibility in E. coli. Nat. Chem. Published online on June 23, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41557-025-01845-5

Source: www.sci.news

The Sea Spider Farm: Harnessing Bacteria for Methane Consumption

Posted on June 21, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The spider of the genus Celico Sura

Biance Dalbo

Spider-like organisms dwelling near methane seepage seem to infiltrate the seabed, consuming microbes within their bodies that oxidize energy-dense gas. This discovery broadens the understanding of entities that rely on symbiotic associations with microorganisms in these alien settings.

Shana Goffredi from Occidental College, California, along with her team, has investigated marine arthropods named for their resemblance to ahinides, which thrive near three distinct methane seeps in the Pacific Ocean. They previously identified three new species from the sea spider genus Celico Sura, noted to be plentiful exclusively near these gas seepages.

In contrast, other sea spider species, which do not inhabit methane seep regions, primarily feed on various invertebrates. However, researchers have found that these newly identified sea spiders primarily acquire nutrition by ingesting a specific range of bacterial species residing in their bodies. These bacteria are capable of converting methane and methanol from the seepage into energy, something the sea spiders alone would not access.

Scientists observed that bacteria remained confined to the spiders’ exoskeletons, resembling “microbial fur coats,” and formed clusters that Goffredi describes as “volcanic-like.” The bacterial layer exhibited patterns resembling marks from a lawnmower, indicative of feeding by the spider’s robust “lips” and three tiny teeth.

To confirm that ocean spiders were actually consuming the bacteria, researchers employed radioactive labeling techniques to monitor the assimilation of methane carbon by laboratory sea spiders. “I observed methane being absorbed into the microorganisms on the spider’s surface, and subsequently traced carbon molecules migrating into the spider’s tissues,” Goffredi explains.

Researchers believe that ocean spiders do not consume all microorganisms growing on their exoskeletons. The species inhabiting the exoskeleton differ from those typically found in their surroundings, indicating a selection process is at play, Goffredi remarks. “The spiders are clearly cultivating and nurturing a unique microbial community.”

Sea spiders are not the first to cultivate microorganisms for chemical energy. “With every observation of these ecosystems near methane seeps, this phenomenon becomes increasingly evident,” notes Eric Cordes from Temple University, Pennsylvania. He previously collaborated with Goffredi on related studies, revealing a similar symbiosis in tube worms. The rich biodiversity near methane seepage is sustained not by solar energy but rather through methane and other chemicals. “That’s truly remarkable,” he remarks.

Cordes emphasizes that bacteria might also be transported along the surface of sea spiders. Unlike livestock on a farm, they gain superior protection and access to pastures. For instance, if methane seepage shifts to another area of the seabed, sea spiders could transfer bacteria to new locales. “Sea spiders maintain these organisms in an ideal habitat,” he adds.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Fossils of 160-Million-Year-Old Blue-Stained Bacteria Discovered in China

Posted on June 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Fossilized blue-staining bacteria that inhabit coniferous wood, drawing the interest of insects. Xenoxylon Phyllocladoides from the Jurassic Tier Ojisian Formation in China extends the early fossil history of blue-stained bacteria by around 80 million years, reconstructing the evolutionary timeline of this fungal group and offering fresh perspectives on the evolution of ecological relationships with wood-boring insects.

Blue staining bacteria in wood tissue of Xenoxylon Phyllocladoides from the Jurassic in West Liaoning Province, China. Image credit: Tian et al., doi: 10.1093/nsr/nwaf160.

Blue staining bacteria form a distinctive group of wood-inhabiting fungi that do not have the capacity to degrade lignocellulose but can cause significant discoloration, particularly in conifers.

Generally, these fungi are not fatal to their hosts, though they can hasten tree mortality when linked with wood-boring insects.

Recent molecular phylogenetic studies suggest that blue-stained bacteria may represent an ancient group of fungi that existed during the late Paleozoic or early Mesozoic eras.

However, the geological aspects of blue-staining bacteria remain largely unexplored.

“Until 2022, the earliest confirmed fossil evidence of blue-staining bacteria was identified from the Cretaceous period in South Africa, around 80 million years ago,” stated Dr. Ning Tian, a paleontologist at Shenyang Normal University.

Dr. Tian and colleagues uncovered well-preserved fossilized hyphae from a 160-million-year-old petrified forest of Xenoxylon Phyllocladoides from the Tier Ojisian Formation in Northeast China.

“Microscopy revealed darkly pigmented fossil hyphae, resembling the characteristics of modern blue-staining bacteria responsible for forest discoloration,” they noted.

“Notably, when penetrating woody cell walls, hyphae usually form a specialized structure known as permeation pegs.”

“As they invade the wood cell walls, the mycelium tends to be finer and can more easily navigate this robust barrier.”

“The discovery of these penetrating pegs allowed us to confirm that the fossilized bacteria we encountered belong to the blue-stained fungal group.”

“Unlike wood-decomposing fungi that break down wood cell walls through enzyme secretion, blue-staining bacteria lack the enzymatic ability for wood degradation.”

“Instead, their mycelium breaches the wood cell wall mechanically using these penetrating pegs.”

“This discovery of Jurassic blue-staining bacteria from China marks the second report of such fungi and adds to the early fossil record of this group worldwide, as recognized by Nanjing Institute of Geology and Paleontology.”

“It also sheds light on the ecological interactions between blue-staining bacteria, plants, and insects during the Jurassic period.”

The bark beetle subfamily Scolytinae is considered a major spore disperser for present-day blue stain fungi.

However, molecular and fossil data indicate that Scolytinae likely originated before the early Cretaceous period.

Given the current Jurassic age of the fossil fungi, it is proposed that the spore dispersing agent was not Scolytinae but another wood-boring insect prevalent during that time.

The findings are detailed in a paper published in the June 2025 issue of the journal National Science Review.

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Ning Tian et al. 2025. Jurassic blue staining bacteria provide new insights into early evolution and ecological interactions. National Science Review 12 (6): NWAF160; doi: 10.1093/nsr/nwaf160

Source: www.sci.news

Your Washing Machine Might Not Eliminate Harmful Bacteria from Your Clothes

Posted on April 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Is your washing machine providing a thorough clean?

Aquaarts Studio/Getty Images

Washing clothes in warm water at 60°C (140°F) might not effectively eliminate harmful bacteria.

Studies indicate that contaminated fabrics can remain infectious for weeks. Moreover, washing with detergent at 60°C can remove bacteria and tackle stubborn stains.

For example, NHS England advises healthcare workers to wash uniforms at 60°C for a minimum of 10 minutes to eliminate nearly all microorganisms, according to Katie Laird from De Montfort University in Leicester, UK. “However, it’s unclear what the machine is truly accomplishing.”

Laird and her team examined six models of home washing machines to evaluate how effectively they cleaned contaminated fabric samples, specifically testing for Enterococcal feces, known to cause various infections, including urinary tract infections.

Their findings revealed that half of the washing machines tested failed to adequately disinfect clothing, reducing bacteria levels by at least 90% in only the rapid cycles; one-third of machines did not achieve sufficient breakdown even in standard cycles.

“This is primarily because most machines either don’t maintain or reach the expected temperature, particularly in shorter cycles,” notes Laird. “In one instance, we found a machine operating at just 20°C (68°F), which the user was unaware of.”

After analyzing bacteria across multiple washes, Laird’s team discovered that microorganisms began developing resistance to detergents. DNA sampling indicated that these microorganisms were acquiring genes that enabled their survival.

The findings suggest that utilizing home washing machines to launder medical uniforms could inadvertently facilitate the spread of infections and antibiotic resistance within hospital settings, Laird pointed out.

To reduce bacteria and viruses in household washing machines, Laird recommends regularly using a machine sanitizer, conducting 90°C (194°F) cleaning cycles, and employing descaling solutions to prevent the build-up of scale that may impair the heating elements’ function.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Newly Discovered Species of Electrically Conductive Bacteria

Posted on April 26, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Electrically conductive cable bacteria are a group of multicellular prokaryotes enabling electron transfer across centimeter-scale distances in both marine and freshwater sediments. Biologists have successfully isolated and characterized new species of cable bacteria from the Mudflat at the intertidal estuary mouth in Yaquina Bay, Oregon, USA.

Microscopic investigation of cable bacteria Ca. Electrothrix yaqonensis, yb6 strain. Image credit: Hiral et al., doi: 10.1128/aem.02502-24.

“Cable bacteria are filamentous prokaryotes that engage in electrosulfide oxidation in the upper layers of aquatic sediments,” states Dr. Chen Lee, a postdoctoral researcher at Oregon State University, along with her team.

“Their electrogenetic metabolism features a unique division among cells in multicellular filaments, facilitating the migration of electrons from deeper sediment layers to the surface, where sulfide oxidation occurs.

“This long-range electron transport is enabled by a specialized network of conductive fibers, which run in parallel ridges from one end of the filament to the other.”

“These fibers connect through conductive contoured structures at the cell interfaces, ensuring redundancy within the electrical network.”

The new species is referred to as Ca. Electrothrix yaqonensis, isolated from the mudflat of Yaquina Bay, Oregon.

“This new species represents a bridge and appears to be an early branch of the Ca. Electrothrix clades, suggesting it offers new insights into the evolution and functionality of these bacteria across various environments,” remarks Dr. Li.

“It differentiates itself from other known cable bacterial species through its significant metabolic potential and distinctive structural traits, including surface ridges that are three times more pronounced than those in other species.

“These bacteria have the capacity to transport electrons for environmental cleanup, potentially aiding in the removal of harmful substances from sediments.”

“Moreover, the highly conductive nickel proteins they produce can lead to advancements in bioelectronics.”

Ca. Electrothrix yaqonensis derives its name from the Jacona people, whose ancestral lands span the Bay of Yaquina.

“Following the tribe’s recognition of its historical connection to the land, it has honored these ecologically significant bacteria and acknowledged their ongoing contributions to sustainability and ecological wisdom,” said Dr. Li.

The team’s study was published this week in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology.

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Anwar Hyalal et al. A new cable bacterial species with distinct morphology and genomic potential. Appl Environ Microbiol Published online on April 22, 2025. doi:10.1128/aem.02502-24

Source: www.sci.news

New Phylums of Bacteria Uncovered in Earth’s Deep Soil by Biologists

Posted on April 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Deep Soils – Depending on the type and area of soil, ranges from less than 30 cm (12 inches) to several hundred meters are neglected ecosystems within important zones of the Earth. Biologists have now discovered a wide and relatively abundant bacterial phyla, named CSP1-3, in deep soils, and evaluated its phylogenetic, ecology, metabolism, and evolutionary history.

A diagram showing the history of evolution from aquatic organisms and adaptive characteristics of CSP1-3 phylums in each habitat. Image credit: Michigan State University.

“The key zone extends from above the trees through the soil to a maximum of 213 m (700 feet),” said Professor James Tiedee of Michigan State University.

“This zone supports most life on the planet as it regulates critical processes such as soil formation, water circulation and nutrition cycling, which are essential for food production, water quality, and ecosystem health.”

“Despite its importance, the deep critical zone is a new frontier, as it is a relatively unexplored part of the Earth.”

Professor Tiedje and his colleagues discovered a completely different microbial phylum called CSP1-3 in this huge, unexplored world of microorganisms.

This new gate was identified in soil samples ranging from both Iowa and China up to 70 feet (21 m) deep.

“Why Iowa and China? Because these two regions have very deep and similar soils and I want to know if their occurrence is more common than just one region,” Professor Tiedje said.

Researchers extracted DNA from these deep soils and discovered that CSP1-3 ancestors lived in water millions of years ago.

They undergo at least one major habitat transition to colonize the soil environment. It is in the first topsoil and the deep soil that followed, within its evolutionary history.

Scientists also discovered that CSP1-3 microorganisms are active.

“Most people think that these organisms are like spores and dormant,” Professor Thiedeye said.

“But one of the important findings we found by examining DNA is that these microorganisms are growing actively and slowly.”

The authors were also surprised that these microorganisms were not unusual members of the community, but dominated. In some cases, they made up more than 50% of the community, but this is by no means the case in surface soils.

“I think this happened because deep soils are very different environments and this group of organisms evolved over a long period of time to adapt to this poor soil environment,” Professor Tiedje said.

a paper The explanation of the survey results was published on March 18th. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Wenlu Feng et al. 2025. Diversification, niche adaptation, and evolution of candidate phylums that thrive in deep critical zones. pnas 122 (12): E2424463122; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2424463122

Source: www.sci.news

Research reveals that a multitude of plants, fungi, protists, bacteria, and viruses possess toxin delivery mechanisms.

Posted on March 29, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

These toxin delivery systems are completely similar and often rival the complexity of the venom delivery systems found in animals such as venom snakes, scorpions, and spiders.

Four representative plant species introducing the poison delivery system: (a) Many ant plants share ants that provide homes and food. (b) Horstria, a parasitic plant that attacks other plants. (c) Stingy trichomes of stinging plants. (d) Raffide penetrates the oral membrane of an animal browsing a plant. Image credit: Hayes et al. , doi: 10.3390/toxin 17030099.

Toxologists and other biologists have studied toxic organisms and their secretions for centuries.

Their interest is largely due to the frequently and severe consequences of human exposure.

Humans also take advantage of the potential of toxins to explore the treatment of human illnesses and illnesses.

In doing so, scientists have leveraged countless natural experiments involving interactions between toxins and target cells and tissues.

The classification of biological toxins, in particular the distinction between venom and venom, is characterized by a colorful and sometimes controversial history.

Nevertheless, with the views of consensus and the introduction of the third phase, toxic biological secretions can be divided into three groups based on their mode of delivery to other organisms.

These include poisons that are transmitted passively without a delivery mechanism (intake, inhalation, or absorption of the entire surface). Toxicity was fed to the body surface without any associated wounds (e.g., spitting, spraying, or smearing). Poison (e.g., sting, biting) carried to internal tissues through the formation of wounds.

The organisms that possess these toxins are called toxic, toxins, and/or toxic, respectively.

These distinctions provide a meaningful framework for studying the evolution of these toxins, including biochemical structures. Related structures for synthesis, storage and application. And their functional role.

Discourses on poison and poisonous animals focus exclusively on animals.

The use of venom has evolved independently in at least 104 strains within at least eight animal phylums, which emphasizes the pronounced adaptability of the trait.

But do poison distribution systems exist in other entities?

“Our findings show that we rely on poisons to solve problems such as predation, defense, and competition.

“The venomous animals have long been trying to understand the fatal secretions and the properties associated with their use, but have long fascinated biologists who have also contributed to many life-saving treatments.”

“To date, our understanding of venoms, poison delivery systems, and poisonous organisms is entirely based on animals. This represents only a small fraction of organisms that can search for meaningful tools and treatments.”

According to the study, plants inject toxins into animals through spines, thorns and stinging hairs, some of which exist with stinging ants by providing living space and food in exchange for protection.

Even bacteria and viruses have evolved mechanisms such as secretory and contractile injection systems to introduce toxins to the target through host cells and wounds.

“I have a long history of studying venom in rattlesnakes, and I began exploring the broader definition of venom over a decade ago, teaching special courses on the biology of venom,” Professor Hayes said.

“My team and I were working on a paper to define what Venom really is, so we came across non-animal examples and decided to dig deeper to identify many of the possible overlooked examples.”

This research paves the way for new discoveries, and the authors hope that experts and scientists will encourage collaboration across disciplines and explore further how Venom has evolved across diverse organisms.

“We only hurt the surface in understanding evolutionary pathways of venom dissemination, including gene duplication, co-configuration of existing genes, and natural selection,” concluded Professor Hayes.

study Published in the journal toxin.

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William K. Hayes et al. 2025. After all, it’s a small world. It is a prominent yet overlooked diversity of poisonous organisms with candidates for plants, fungi, protists, bacteria and viruses. toxin 17(3):99; doi:10.3390/toxin 17030099

Source: www.sci.news

Is it possible for bacteria to inherit memories? – Sciworthy

Posted on February 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Bacteria resistance to antibiotics is a global health concern as once easily curable infections have become more difficult to treat. Many bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Escherichia coli It can generate resilient forms with additional survival mechanisms. For example, they can form a shield like a mat called Biofilmto keep yourself safe. Or they can move as a group known as Flockfind new resources. Researchers are studying antibiotic-resistant bacteria They have not studied how nutrients affect protective bacterial behavior across generations. Multi-generational memory.

Researchers at the University of Texas recently tested whether iron in the environment contributes to multi-generational memories of bacteria. Iron is an important nutrient for bacteria, just like humans. Metabolism and respiration. However, the amount of iron bacteria varies greatly depending on environmental conditions. If there is too little iron, bacteria cannot flourish. in the case of E. colidifferent iron levels may change their behavior.

The researchers created two groups E. coli. They gave the first group sufficient iron levels to inhibit growth. They gave the other groups 1,000 times more iron, making it extremely abundant. after that, Y removed nutrients from both groups of bacteria and raised the temperature so high that it caused them to stress. To see how their behavior has changed.

They found that bacteria tend to move towards different defensive behaviors depending on the iron level. Bacteria with less iron tended to crowd more frequently, whereas bacteria that formed more iron formed more frequently biofilms. Iron levels also influenced the ability of bacteria to form biofilms. This is because bacteria containing excess iron better protected biofilms, which form biofilms. However, they also found that for tracking exposure to two antibiotics, bacteria given to less iron become harder and better. Kanamycin and Chloramphenicol.

Scientists observed five generations e . E. coliCheck for each group to see if this behavior persists. They discovered that bacteria have tailored their herds and biofilms to their preferences for up to four generations. In other words, I remembered the iron level of my ancestors. But this Iron memoryas researchers called it, disappeared by the fifth generation. Based on these results, the researchers concluded that bacterial colonies can convey information about their environment, but only for a short time.

Researchers also found that bacterial memory itself is associated with iron levels. By observing behavioural and genetic changes in bacteria, they identified two proteins that regulate the amount of bacteria absorbed. Fepa and fur. These were observed that all affected bacteria tend to be herd when iron levels were lower and these proteins worked more vigorously. They interpret this result and show that iron levels leave permanent physical changes in bacteria, affecting the bacterial environment memory, leading to behavioral changes.

The researchers also suggested that their findings could help scientists improve antibiotics. They explained that antibiotics produce harmful chemicals that damage bacterial cells. Reactive oxygen species Or ROS. They found that high iron levels within the environment promote this ROS production. Therefore, bacteria with low iron levels survived the treatment better as antibiotics generate less productive ROS. They suggested that the findings suggest that low iron levels also support bacteria in responding to antibiotics, as they adapt quickly to environmental stresses.

Researchers say learning how bacteria use iron memories can help scientists fight antibiotic resistance through multi-generational adaptations. Bacteria that remember previous antibiotic exposures are much more difficult to kill and are constantly concerned about antibiotic resistance. Researchers concluded that antibiotics could potentially provide benefits in the future by breaking the memory of such bacteria. Still, they acknowledged that further research is needed to determine the limitations of this mechanism and whether it works in other bacteria.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Recent studies uncover the mechanisms by which Deinococcus bacteria can survive high levels of radiation

Posted on December 16, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

called radiation-resistant bacteria Deinococcus radiodurans It can withstand radiation doses thousands of times higher than what would kill a human. The secret behind this resistance is the existence of a collection of simple metabolites that combine with manganese to form a powerful antioxidant. Now, Northwestern University professor Brian Hoffman and his colleagues have discovered how this antioxidant works.

Deinococcus radiodurans. Image credit: USU/Michael Daly.

First discovered in 1956, Deinococcus radiodurans It is one of the most radiation-resistant organisms known.

It was isolated in an experiment aimed at determining whether high doses of gamma rays could be used to sterilize canned food.

In a new study, Professor Hoffman and co-authors characterized a synthetic designer antioxidant called MDP. Deinococcus radiodurans'Resilience.

They show that the components of MDP, manganese ions, phosphates, and small peptides, form a ternary complex that is a much more powerful protector from radiation damage than when manganese is combined with other individual components alone. I discovered that.

This discovery could ultimately lead to new synthetic antioxidants specifically tailored to human needs.

Applications include protecting astronauts from intense space radiation during deep space missions, preparing for radiation emergencies, and producing radiation-inactivated vaccines.

“This ternary complex is MDP's excellent shield against the effects of radiation,” said Professor Hoffman.

“It has long been known that manganese ions and phosphates together make a powerful antioxidant, but now we discover and understand the 'magical' potency brought about by the addition of a third ingredient. That's a breakthrough.”

“This study provided the key to understanding why this combination is such a powerful and promising radioprotector.”

In a previous study, researchers found that: Deinococcus radiodurans It can withstand 25,000 Grays (or units of X-rays and gamma rays).

But in a 2022 study, Professor Hoffmann and his team found that this bacterium, when dried and frozen, can withstand 140,000 Gy of radiation, 28,000 times the dose that would kill humans. did.

Therefore, if there are dormant frozen microbes buried on Mars, they may have survived the onslaught of galactic cosmic radiation and solar protons to this day.

In an effort to understand radioresistance in microorganisms, researchers investigated a designer decapeptide called DP1.

When combined with phosphate and manganese, DP1 forms the free radical scavenger MDP, which protects cells and proteins from radiation damage.

Professor Michael Daly, from Uniformed Services University, said: “This new understanding of MDP could lead to the development of even more powerful manganese-based antioxidants with applications in areas such as medicine, industry, defense and space exploration. Yes,” he said.

of result will appear in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Hao Yang others. 2024. A ternary complex of Mn2+, synthetic decapeptide DP1 (DEHGTAVMLK), and orthophosphate is an excellent antioxidant. PNAS 121 (51): e2417389121;doi: 10.1073/pnas.2417389121

Source: www.sci.news

Bacteria discovered in asteroid samples, originating from Earth

Posted on November 22, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Bacteria on a sample of asteroid Ryugu observed using an electron microscope

Matthew J. Genge et al. 2024

Rocks brought back to Earth from the asteroid Ryugu appear to be inhabited by microorganisms. But researchers say these microbes almost certainly came from Earth, not space. The contamination is a wake-up call for future sample-return missions, such as NASA’s Mars rover Perseverance, to search for extraterrestrial life.

In 2020, the Japanese space probe Hayabusa2 returned to Earth carrying 5.4 grams of rock collected from the 4.5 billion-year-old asteroid Ryugu. After landing in Australia, the sample capsule was transported to a custom-built facility in Sagamihara, Japan. There, the capsule itself was first opened in a vacuum chamber inside a clean room and then moved to a room filled with pressurized nitrogen for long-term storage. From there, a portion of the sample can be placed in a container filled with nitrogen and sent to researchers.

One of these samples was sent to the UK for research. Matthew Genge Imperial College London and colleagues. Genge and his team initially scanned the samples using X-rays, but found no evidence of bacteria.

Samples from asteroid Ryugu collected by Hayabusa2

JAXA

After 3 weeks, the samples were transferred to resin and further examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) after another week. When Genge and his colleagues first looked at the sample and saw what appeared to be thread-like bacteria, his students “almost fell off their chairs” at the prospect of discovering extraterrestrial life. . “It was an exciting moment, but we also had in the back of our minds from previous research that bacteria tend to colonize rocks,” Genge said.

By tracking bacterial growth with follow-up SEM measurements, they found that bacterial populations varied in a manner similar to known microorganisms. Their familiar shape, combined with their absence in the first X-ray scan, makes it very likely that they were terrestrial in origin, Genge says.

He believes the samples may have become contaminated after being embedded in the resin. The experiment was conducted at a facility on Earth that also handles space rocks. Rock specimens often contain bacteria that are adapted to live within them. “All it takes is one bacterium or one bacterial spore for this to happen,” he says. “For example, when we’re preparing meteorite samples, we don’t usually see this kind of colonization happening, and that’s because the probability of it happening is so low. In this case , one bacterium fell onto the sample and started multiplying.”

But Genge added that this should serve as a warning for future sample return missions. “Finding microbes in samples returned from space should be the gold standard for discovering extraterrestrial life. If we were to do that, we would fly to Mars, collect samples, and bring them back. “If we found microorganisms in it, we would say that was the clincher,” Genge says. “But our findings really show that we have to be very careful in interpreting the samples because they are susceptible to contamination with terrestrial bacteria.”

Javier Martin Torres Researchers at the University of Aberdeen in the UK agree that changes in the microbial filament population suggest a terrestrial origin, but this does not exclude the possibility that they came from elsewhere. . “If you want to be sure that these microorganisms are not of extraterrestrial origin, you need to do DNA sequencing,” he says.

Scientists already knew that bacteria could survive very well in meteorite samples that fell to Earth, but this raises the possibility that bacteria could also survive on materials elsewhere in the solar system. It only strengthens it. “The microorganisms can use organic matter within the meteorite to sustain themselves. They’re feeding on an extraterrestrial snack,” Genge says. “So there may be an ecosystem on Mars. It’s a fairly sparse ecosystem, but it’s an ecosystem that’s supported by manna from the sky and by meteorites that fall on the surface.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New research shows early humans carried two distinct strains of Helicobacter bacteria

Posted on October 21, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Two ecological species Helicobacter pylori. The bacteria, named ‘Hardy’ and ‘Ubiquitous’, coexisted in the stomachs of modern humans before they left Africa, and were dispersed around the world as humans migrated, new research shows. Ta.

Tourette’s others. They discovered that indigenous peoples in Siberia and the Americas were infected with two different types of viruses. Helicobacter pylori. Image credit: sjs.org / CC BY-SA 3.0.

First discovered in 1983, Helicobacter pylori. During long-term colonization of human hosts, it disturbs the stomach lining and causes sequelae such as ulcers and gastric cancer.

Numerous Helicobacter pylori. Virulence factors have been identified and show wide geographic variation.

In the new study, Dr. Elise Tourette and colleagues at the Shanghai Institute of Immunology and Infection used an unprecedented collection of 6,864 individuals. Helicobacter pylori. Genomes from around the world to investigate the prevalence of bacteria.

They unexpectedly discovered a very distinct variant. Helicobacter pylori. They named it the Hardy species, which originated hundreds of thousands of years ago and spread around the world with humans.

They proposed that this species is specialized to live in the stomachs of carnivores whose diet consists mainly of meat and fish.

Therefore, genetic variations found in the bacteria in our stomachs today can tell us what our ancestors ate.

“Our diverse global sample has allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of world history. Helicobacter. This confirmed previous findings that these bacteria were already passengers in our stomachs when we left Africa more than 50,000 years ago,” said Dr. Tourette. .

“But we also identified something surprising, in the form of a new ecological species. Helicobacter. We called it Hardy.”

“It differs by more than 100 genes from the common type we called ubiquitous.”

“Hardy’s ecospecies turned out to be very informative about what bacteria need to do to survive in our stomachs, but more fundamentally, bacterial diversity How it was maintained also turned out to be very informative.”

“Most humans alive today are omnivores or vegetarians, meaning a significant portion of our diet consists of plant material,” said Dr. Daniel Farash, also of the Shanghai Institute of Immunology and Infection. said.

“However, in some parts of the world, plant material was historically unavailable for large parts of the year, and people relied heavily on fish and meat for food.”

“So far, the Hardy ecospecies has only been identified in humans from indigenous populations such as Siberia and northern Canada.”

“Due to ancient host jumps, this virus has also been found in tigers and cheetahs in zoos, with important genetic differences that allow it to adapt to gastric conditions in carnivores.”

“This association is particularly interesting because our analysis also suggests that both ecological species have accompanied humans since our species’ emergence in Africa more than 200,000 years ago.” Because there is.”

“If this species is indeed adapted to being a carnivore, it means that humans who spread around the world often did not eat plants, even if plants were available. .”

By analyzing Helicobacter pylori. By analyzing genomes from around the world, researchers discovered that the first modern humans were infected with two different types of bacteria: M. hardyi and M. ubiquitous.

Both species spread from Africa during early human migrations, reaching as far as South America.

The ubiquitous ecospecies has been found in every human population sampled to date, whereas the Hardy ecospecies has only been sampled from a small number of indigenous populations and may have become extinct at many points along its migratory routes. It suggests that.

However, one strain of the African Hardy strain has shifted hosts to big cats and has been isolated from cheetahs, lions, and tigers in zoos.

Understanding why these species can coexist in some populations but not in others will help us understand the profound implications of our prehistory and the gastric diseases we still suffer from today. It is hoped that this will shed light on the burden.

“Our results also show that very different adaptive strategies can arise and be stably maintained within bacterial populations, even in the presence of continuous genetic exchange between strains.” said the scientists.

of findings. Published in a magazine nature.

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E.Tourette others. ancient ecological species Helicobacter pylori. naturepublished online October 16, 2024. doi: 10.1038/s41586-024-07991-z

Source: www.sci.news

Even basic bacteria can forecast seasonal shifts

Posted on September 6, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Scanning electron microscope image Synechococcus Cyanobacteria

Eyes of Science/Science Photo Library

Despite being one of the simplest life forms on Earth, cyanobacteria are able to predict and prepare for seasonal changes based on the amount of light they receive.

It has been known for over a century that complex organisms can use day length as a cue to future environmental conditions – for example, days shortening before cold weather sets in. Phenomena such as plant and animal migration, flowering, hibernation and seasonal reproduction are all guided by such responses, known as photoperiodism, but this has not previously been seen in simpler life forms such as bacteria.

Luisa Jabbour Later, at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, colleagues artificially Synechococcus elongatus By exposing the cyanobacteria to different day lengths, they found that those that experienced simulated short days were two to three times better able to survive icy temperatures, preparing them for winter-like conditions.

By testing shorter and longer durations, the researchers found that it took four to six days for a response to appear.

Because these organisms can produce new generations within a matter of hours, their cells must pass on information about the length of daylight to their offspring, but researchers don’t yet understand how this information is transmitted.

Cyanobacteria, which capture energy from sunlight through photosynthesis, have been around for more than two billion years and are found almost everywhere on Earth.

“The fact that organisms as ancient and simple as cyanobacteria have a photoperiodic response suggests that this is a phenomenon that has evolved much longer than we had imagined,” says Jabbour, who is now at the John Innes Centre in Norwich, UK.

The team also looked at how gene expression patterns change in response to changes in day length, suggesting that photoperiodism likely evolved by exploiting existing mechanisms to cope with acute stresses such as bright light and extreme temperatures.

These findings also have implications for the evolution of circadian rhythms, the internal clocks that regulate day-night cycles, team members say. Karl Johnson At Vanderbilt University.

“I think we’ve always thought that circadian clocks evolved before organisms were able to measure the length of days and nights and predict the changing of seasons,” he says, “but the fact that photoperiodism evolved in such ancient, simple organisms, and that our gene expression results are linked to stress response pathways that seem to have evolved very early in life on Earth, suggests that photoperiodism may have evolved before the circadian clock,” Johnson says.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Two antibiotics found in Arctic marine bacteria by scientists

Posted on August 31, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

A research team from Finland and Norway has identified two candidate anti-toxic compounds against enteric pathogens. E. coli Marine actinomycete strains from the bacterial metabolite (EPEC) infection Cochlea and Rhodococcus From the Arctic Ocean.

Strain T091-5 of this genus RhodococcusImages/Photos Courtesy of: Pylkkö others., doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1432475.

“We show that advanced screening assays can identify anti-toxic and antibacterial metabolites from actinomycete extracts,” says Professor Paivi Tamela from the University of Helsinki.

“We discovered compounds in the Arctic actinomycete that inhibit virulence without affecting EPEC growth, as well as compounds that inhibit growth.”

Professor Tamera and his colleagues have developed a series of new methods that allow them to simultaneously test the antitoxic and antibacterial effects of hundreds of unknown compounds.

They targeted a strain of EPEC that causes severe, sometimes fatal, diarrhea in children under the age of 5, especially in developing countries. EPEC attaches to cells in the human intestine and causes disease.

Once EPEC attaches to these cells, it injects so-called “virulence factors” into the host cell that hijack its molecular machinery and ultimately kills the cell.

The compounds tested were extracted from four species of actinomycetes isolated from invertebrates collected in the Arctic waters off the coast of Svalbard during an expedition by a Norwegian research vessel. Cronprince Haakon August 2020.

These bacteria were cultured, the cells were extracted, and their contents were separated into fractions.

Each fraction was then tested in vitro against EPEC attached to cultured colon cancer cells.

The researchers discovered two previously unknown compounds with strong anti-toxic or anti-bacterial activity: one from an unknown strain of the genus (called T091-5); Rhodococcusand another strain from an unknown strain of this genus (T160-2). Cochlea.

These compounds exhibited two complementary biological activities.

First, it inhibits the formation of the so-called “actin pedestal” by EPEC bacteria, a key step in the attachment of this pathogen to the host intestinal wall.

The second is to block EPEC binding to so-called Tir receptors on the surface of host cells, a necessary step to rewire intracellular processes and cause disease.

Unlike compounds in T160-2, compounds in T091-5 did not slow the growth of EPEC bacteria.

This means that T091-5 is the most promising of the two strains, as EPEC is unlikely to eventually develop resistance to its antivirulence effects.

Using advanced analytical techniques, the authors determined that the active compounds in T091-5 were likely phospholipids, a type of fatty phosphorus-containing molecule that plays an important role in cellular metabolism.

“The next steps are to optimise the culture conditions for compound production and to isolate sufficient quantities of each compound to elucidate their structures and further explore their respective biological activities,” Prof Tamera said.

of Survey results Published in today's journal The cutting edge of microbiology.

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Tuomas Pirko others2024. Bioprospecting EPEC virulence inhibitors from metabolites of an Arctic marine actinomycete. Front. Microbiol 15;doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1432475

Source: www.sci.news

Microwave ovens are home to a surprising array of bacteria

Posted on August 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Microwaves heat food but don't necessarily kill bacteria

Shutterstock/Stock Photo

Microwaves in homes, offices, and laboratories harbor a surprising variety of bacteria.

Microwaves are widely used to heat food and sterilize samples, but the radiation they emit is non-ionizing and does not damage biological molecules. Microwaves heat objects by vibrating water molecules, but bacteria are only killed if a high enough temperature is reached.

However, repeated heating and drying processes meant that microwaves were considered to be a difficult environment for microorganisms to survive.

Manuel Polker Researchers from the University of Valencia in Spain sampled 30 microwaves: 10 from private kitchens, 10 from shared kitchens such as corporate centers, scientific laboratories and cafeterias, and 10 from molecular biology and microbiology laboratories.

In total, the researchers found 747 different genera of bacteria within 25 bacterial phyla, with diversity lowest in domestic microwave ovens and highest in laboratory devices.

Many of the bacteria found in shared and single-family microwaves overlapped and were similar to bacteria commonly found on people's hands and elsewhere in the kitchen, suggesting that microbes don't need special adaptations to survive in microwaves, perhaps because food particles protect them from radiation, Polker said.

However, the microbiome found in the lab, where food was not cooked, was more distinctive and resembled those found in extremely dry, hot and irradiated environments, such as solar panels.

The researchers found that some of the bacteria found in household microwave ovens include: Klebsiella, Enterococcus and Aeromonaswhich may pose a risk to human health, but the microbial populations found on microwaves do not pose any unique or elevated risk compared to other common kitchen surfaces, the researchers said.

“What's clear is that the microwave cannot be trusted to be a cleaner environment in terms of microbes than the rest of the kitchen, and it should be cleaned just like the rest of the kitchen,” Polker says.

Belinda Ferrari A researcher from the University of New South Wales in Australia says she's not at all surprised that researchers found bacteria that can live in microwaves. “Bacteria can survive almost any extreme exposure and can adapt to anything,” she says.

Ferrari recommends regularly cleaning your microwave with a disinfectant: “Some microwaves in workplaces are filthy and no one cleans them,” she says.

She would like to see more detailed information about when microwaves were last cleaned in her research: “If we were to do this experiment, we would also like to study the biome before and after cleaning,” she says.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Resilient bacteria discovered thriving in microwave ovens

Posted on August 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Microwaves heat food but don't necessarily kill bacteria

Shutterstock/Stock Photo

Microwaves in homes, offices, and laboratories harbor a surprising variety of bacteria.

However, repeated heating and drying processes meant that microwaves were considered to be a difficult environment for microorganisms to survive.

Alba Iglesias Researchers from the University of Valencia in Spain sampled 30 microwaves: 10 from private kitchens, 10 from shared kitchens such as corporate centers, scientific laboratories and cafeterias, and 10 from molecular biology and microbiology laboratories.

In total, the researchers found 747 different genera of bacteria within 25 bacterial phyla, with diversity lowest in domestic microwave ovens and highest in laboratory devices.

Many of the bacteria found in shared and single-family home microwaves overlapped and were similar to bacteria commonly found on people's hands and elsewhere in the kitchen, but the bacteria found in the lab, where no food is cooked, were more unique, resembling the microbiomes found in extremely dry, hot and irradiated environments, such as solar panels.

The researchers found that some of the bacteria found in household microwave ovens include: Klebsiella, Enterococcus and Aeromonaswhich could pose a risk to human health. But the microbial populations found on microwaves do not pose any unique or increased risk compared with other common kitchen surfaces, the researchers said. The researchers did not respond to requests for an interview.

Ferrari recommends regularly cleaning your microwave with a disinfectant: “Some microwaves in workplaces are filthy and no one cleans them,” she says.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Mutated, Genetically Unique Strains of Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria Found on the ISS by Biologists

Posted on April 24, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Enterobacter bugandensis It is mainly present in clinical specimens such as the human gastrointestinal tract.

Example workflow illustrating the process of comparative genomics analysis Enterobacter bugandensis, its prevalence and metabolic interactions within the microbial community, and assess its adaptation success within the ISS habitat. Image credit: Sengupta other., doi: 10.1186/s40168-024-01777-1.

The International Space Station (ISS) is a testament to humanity's achievements in space exploration.

Despite a highly controlled environment characterized by microgravity, increased carbon dioxide levels, and increased solar radiation, microorganisms occupy a unique niche.

These resident microbial bacteria play an important role in influencing the health and well-being of astronauts.

One particularly interesting microorganism is the Enterobacter bugandensis, a Gram-negative bacterium notorious for its multidrug resistance.

“Microorganisms in the built environment have a significant impact on the health of residents,” says the lead author Dr. Kastri Venkateswaran by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and colleagues.

“The ISS is a highly controlled built environment with extreme conditions such as microgravity, solar radiation, and elevated carbon dioxide levels, providing a unique location to study microbial survival and adaptation. .”

“Recent studies have demonstrated that microorganisms exposed to microgravity acquire antibiotic resistance and become more virulent through rapid mutation and horizontal gene transfer.”

“Prolonged space travel in microgravity can compromise astronauts' immune systems and increase their vulnerability to disease.”

“The microbial population on the ISS can influence the astronauts' microbiome and could be replenished by the arrival of new crew members.”

“Understanding microbial colonization, inheritance, and interactions is therefore critical to ensuring the health of astronauts and managing microbial risks in isolated and confined human habitats.”

In the new study, the authors analyzed 13 bacterial strains. Enterobacter bugandensis It is isolated from the ISS.

Their results show that under stress these strains mutated and became genetically and functionally distinct compared to their terrestrial counterparts.

These strains were able to persist in large numbers on the ISS for long periods of time.

They coexisted with multiple other microorganisms, and in some cases may have helped those microorganisms survive.

“Our comprehensive analysis reveals not only how these interactions shape microbial diversity, but also the factors that may contribute to the potential dominance and inheritance of microorganisms. Ta. Enterobacter bugandensis within the ISS environment,” the researchers said.

“The implications of these findings are twofold,” they added.

“First, we shed light on the behavior, adaptation, and evolution of microorganisms in extreme and isolated environments.”

“Second, it highlights the need for strong precautions to ensure the health and safety of astronauts by mitigating risks associated with potential pathogen threats.”

of findings appear in the diary microbiome.

_____

P. Sengupta other. 2024. Genomic, functional, and metabolic enrichment in multidrug-resistant patients. Enterobacter bugandensis Facilitate survival and succession on the International Space Station. microbiome 12, 62; doi: 10.1186/s40168-024-01777-1

Source: www.sci.news

Purple Bacteria: The New Dominant Species in Various Environments

Posted on April 17, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

With more than 5,500 exoplanets detected, the search for life is entering a new era. Astrobiologists from Cornell University and the University of Minnesota have used life on Earth as a guide to look beyond the lush landscape and expand our ability to detect signs of surface life on other worlds. A new study characterizes the reflectance spectra of purple sulfur and non-sulfur bacteria from different environments.

Coelho to extend the baseline for finding life in the universe other. They measured the reflectance of purple bacteria growing in different anoxic and aerobic environments. Image credit: Sci.News.

From houseplants and gardens to fields and forests, green is the color most associated with life on Earth’s surface. On Earth, conditions were favorable for the evolution of organisms that carried out photosynthesis, using the green pigment chlorophyll a to produce oxygen.

But an Earth-like planet orbiting another star could look completely different, receiving little or no visible light or oxygen and instead relying on photosynthesis, like some environments on Earth. may be covered in bacteria that use invisible infrared light to promote

Many such bacteria on Earth contain purple pigments instead of green, and in a world where they are predominantly purple, they could produce unique “light fingerprints” that can be detected by next generation ground and space telescopes. will be generated.

Ligia Fonseca Coelho, Ph.D., a postdoctoral fellow at Cornell University’s Carl Sagan Institute, said, “Purple bacteria are able to thrive under a wide range of conditions, making them one of the leading candidates for life that has the potential to dominate many different worlds.” “We have become one,” he said.

“We are building a database of signs of life so that telescopes can detect life even if they don’t look exactly like what we encounter around us every day,” said Dr. Lisa Kaltenegger, director of the Carl Sagan Institute. We need to make sure we don’t miss out,” he added. at Cornell University.

For this study, the authors collected samples of more than 20 types of purple sulfur and non-sulfur bacteria that can be found in a variety of environments, from shallow waters, beaches, and wetlands to deep-sea hydrothermal vents. collected and grown.

Bacteria, collectively known as purple bacteria, actually have a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, brown, and red, due to pigments related to the pigments that make tomatoes red and carrots orange.

They use a simpler photosynthetic system that utilizes a form of chlorophyll that absorbs infrared light and produces no oxygen, and they thrive in low-energy red or infrared light.

They were likely widespread on early Earth before the advent of plant-type photosynthesis, and may be particularly suited to planets orbiting cool red dwarfs, the most common type in the galaxy. there is.

“They are already thriving in certain areas here,” Dr. Coelho said.

“Imagine if they weren’t competing with green plants, algae, and bacteria. The red sun might give them the most favorable conditions for photosynthesis.”

After measuring the purple bacteria’s biological pigments and optical fingerprints, the researchers created a model of an Earth-like planet with varying conditions and cloud cover.

“In a variety of simulated environments, both wet and dry purple bacteria produced a dark-colored biosignature,” Dr. Coelho said.

“If purple bacteria thrive on the surface of frozen Earth, ocean worlds, snowball Earths, or modern Earth orbiting cooler stars, we have the tools to search for them. can do.”

team’s work will appear in Royal Astronomical Society Monthly Notices.

_____

Ligia Fonseca Coelho other. 2024. Purple is the new green. Spectrum of biological pigments and a purple world similar to the Earth. MNRAS 530 (2): 1363-1368; doi: 10.1093/mnras/stae601

Source: www.sci.news

The impact of programmable bacteria on cancer treatment

Posted on December 22, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers are developing synthetic programmable bacteria to help kill cancerous tissue.Credit: Texas A&M Engineering

https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1009258

https://chat.openai.com/c/6cfb1180-0a40-409b-b230-817e653d2c44

Texas A&M University researchers are co-leading a $20 million project to develop a $1 cancer treatment.

What if a single dose of $1 could cure cancer?

A multi-university research team is receiving federal funding to develop a highly efficient bacterial therapy that targets cancer more precisely and makes treatment safer at a cost of $1 per dose.

Traditionally, cancer treatments have had limited effectiveness in treating patients. Some treatments, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, can cause harmful side effects, while others tend to have poor patient response, not to mention the high cost of treatment.Survey results from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network reports that 73% of cancer survivors and patients are concerned about how they will pay for their cancer treatment, and 51% say they have medical debt from their treatment. For example, cutting-edge cancer treatment can cost up to $1,000,000.

Texas A&M University and the University of Missouri are leading efforts to develop low-cost, safe and controlled cancer treatments. Researchers received a $20 million grant from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) to fight cancer. The four-year project is part of the current administration’s cancer moonshot plan to boost cancer research and increase funding. It is funded by a newly established agency that aims to accelerate improved health outcomes for all by supporting the development of highly effective solutions to society’s most challenging health problems. It was one of my first projects.

Rapid analysis of cells

$12 million of the grant will go to the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station/Texas A&M. Alam Han, Jim Song, and Chelsea Hu are developing programmable synthetic bacteria for immune-induced killing in the tumor environment (SPIKE). The idea is to engineer the bacteria so that the T cells kill the cancerous tissue, and once the cancer is gone, they destroy themselves and are safely excreted out of the body as human waste.

“SPIKE can specifically target tumor cells,” said Han, a professor in Texas Instruments’ Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. “And because we only target the cancerous tissue and not the surrounding healthy cells, patient safety is dramatically increased. I’m excited to be part of this team tackling a critical health issue that affects so many people. I am very honored.”

Han’s lab is developing high-throughput microfluidic systems that can rapidly process and screen large bacterial therapeutic libraries one cell at a time to rapidly identify the most promising treatments. By fusing microfabrication techniques and biotechnology, these systems create picoliter-scale liquid handling systems that can accurately analyze single cells with high precision and speed, and devices that rapidly analyze individual cells. Realize.

“The big challenge is figuring out how to actually develop these sophisticated microdevices that can run millions of fully automated tests with very little manual or human intervention,” Han said. said. “That’s the engineering challenge.”

Rescue anti-tumor immune cells

While Han innovates and designs microdevices, Song, an immunologist with a background in microbial pathogenesis, T-cell biology, and T-cell-based immunotherapy, has spent the past five years working in bacterial immunotherapy. We are working on this.certain bacteria known as Brucella melitensis At least four types of cancer can be treated by manipulating the human body’s microenvironment and promoting T cell-mediated antitumor immunity.

“We are working on improving Brucella melitensis We can more effectively prevent or suppress tumor growth,” said Song, a professor at Texas A&M School of Medicine. “Our current approach involves finding ways to manipulate bacteria to rescue anti-tumor immune cells and make them more effective at killing tumor cells.

“According to the data so far, BrucellaThe efficiency is dramatically higher than other cancer treatments such as chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy and T-cell receptor therapy, with a response rate of over 70%,” said Song.

Safe and controllable treatment

While Professor Song continues to test the effectiveness of bacteria using cancer models, Professor Hu, an assistant professor in Artie McFerrin’s Department of Chemical Engineering and a synthetic biologist, has demonstrated that live bacterial treatments are safe and controllable. We are working to confirm.

” Brucella The strain we are using is attenuated and has been shown to be safe for the host as it lacks key genes required for bacterial virulence,” Hu said. Told. “Ultimately, we want to control the rate at which bacteria multiply within the tumor environment and their ability to self-destruct when their mission is completed.”

To control the rate of growth, the bacteria’s genes are modified to regulate its population, which fluctuates around a certain set point. Hu also plans to incorporate biosensors into the bacteria, allowing them to distinguish between healthy and tumor tissue, allowing them to grow only within the tumor microenvironment.

The bacteria are engineered with receptors that allow patients to take antibiotics after the cancer has gone away. This sends a signal to the bacteria to essentially shred itself and safely remove it from the patient’s body.

“We humans are actually covered in bacteria, and many diseases are caused by imbalances in these bacterial communities,” Hu said. “For example, some people have incredibly fragile stomachs, while others have strong stomachs. The science behind this is that people with strong immune and digestive systems have a healthy gut. It means that it has a population of bacterial cells. There are many possibilities for biological therapy.”

“It’s a really great opportunity to have a great team with the expertise and the ability to push this technology to the forefront,” Hu said. “So the goal is to go into the clinic and provide patients with effective cancer treatment for less than $1 per treatment.”

Tackling difficult problems with unconventional approaches

Other collaborators include Dr. Zhilei Chen of Texas A&M Health Science Center, Dr. Xiaoning Qian of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Principal Investigator Dr. Paul de Figueiredo of the University of Missouri.

“The three important advantages of this study are high safety, low cost, and specific targeting of cancerous tumors,” Han said. “We are very excited to be one of the first teams to receive support from ARPA-H, a brand new agency supported by Congress. We take an unconventional approach to tackling difficult problems. High risk, high impact is the hallmark of our approach.”

And the future applications of bacterial engineering that this research unlocks are limitless.

“For our next big project, we will work together to develop bacteria that fight autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis,” Song said. Bacteria-based immunotherapy is an exciting frontier in medicine and offers the potential to revolutionize the treatment of autoimmune diseases. With the power of beneficial microorganisms harnessed to modulate the immune system, we are changing the future of medicine. Our research and expertise promises to transform the lives of millions of people, giving them new hope and a healthier tomorrow. ”

Source: scitechdaily.com

Artificial Intelligence identifies novel antibiotics effective against drug-resistant bacteria

Posted on December 20, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Shutterstock / Katerina Conn

Artificial intelligence has contributed to the discovery of new classes of antibiotics that can treat infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria. This could help fight antibiotic resistance, which claimed more than 1.2 million lives in 2019, and that number is expected to increase in the coming decades.

A new antibiotic compound has proven to be a promising treatment for both methicillin resistance and tolerance in tests in mice. Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin resistance Enterococcus – Bacteria that have developed resistance to drugs commonly used to treat MRSA infections.

“our [AI] The model not only tells us which compounds have selective antibiotic activity, but also why in terms of their chemical structure. ” Felix Wong at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard University in Massachusetts.

Wong and colleagues aimed to show that AI-driven drug discovery can go beyond identifying specific targets to which drug molecules can bind to predicting the biological effects of entire classes of drug-like compounds.

First, we tested the effects of over 39,000 compounds. Staphylococcus aureus Three types of human cells: liver, skeletal muscle, and lung. The result was training data for the AI model to learn the chemical atoms and bond patterns of each compound. This has enabled AI to predict both the antibacterial activity and potential toxicity of such compounds to human cells.

The trained AI model then analyzed 12 million compounds through computer simulations and found 3,646 compounds with ideal drug-like properties. Additional calculations identified chemical substructures that could explain the properties of each compound.

By comparing such substructures of different compounds, researchers identified a new class of potential antibiotics and ultimately two non-antibiotics that can kill both MRSA and vancomycin-resistant bacteria. discovered a toxic compound Enterococcus.

Finally, researchers used mouse experiments to demonstrate the effectiveness of these compounds in treating skin and thigh infections caused by MRSA.

Only a few new classes of antibiotics, such as oxazolidinones and lipopeptides, have been discovered to be effective against both MRSA and vancomycin-resistant bacteria. Enterococcus – and says resistance to such compounds is increasing. james collins at the Broad Institute, where he co-authored the study.

“Our research has identified one of the few new classes of antibiotics in 60 years that complements other antibiotics,” he says.

Researchers are working to design entirely new antibiotics and discover other new drug classes, such as compounds that selectively kill aging and damaged cells involved in conditions such as osteoarthritis and cancer. are starting to use this AI-driven approach.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

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Artificial Intelligence identifies novel antibiotics effective against drug-resistant bacteria