Tag

Biofilm

All articles tagged with #biofilm

Bacteria Inside Kidney Stones Rewrite How Stones Form
science25 days ago

Bacteria Inside Kidney Stones Rewrite How Stones Form

A UCLA-led study finds calcium oxalate kidney stones harbor bacteria and even internal biofilm, suggesting microbes may contribute to stone formation rather than stones forming purely by chemistry. This challenges the view that stones are noninfectious and implies infections in the kidney, ureter, or bladder could drive recurrence; targeting the microbial environment may reduce future stones. Findings come from electron and fluorescence microscopy of human stones and were published in PNAS (2026).

science1 month ago

Far-Red Light Triggers Tiny Protein to Silence Biofilms in Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria

A Nature Communications study reports that far-red light activates the periplasmic microprotein DimA in antibiotic‑resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, triggering a cascade that represses biofilm formation and reduces virulence; virulence promoters are not activated under far-red light, and bacteria with disrupted photosensing showed higher virulence, suggesting a potential light‑based approach to complement antibiotics. The researchers also hint at overexpressing DimA to further prevent biofilm formation.

Tips for effectively cleaning your reusable water bottle
environment1 month ago

Tips for effectively cleaning your reusable water bottle

Reusable water bottles can harbor bacteria, viruses, and biofilm if not cleaned properly. Experts recommend washing bottles daily with soap or a diluted bleach solution, cleaning all parts including lids and straws, and drying thoroughly to prevent microbial growth. Using hot water and avoiding antimicrobial soaps are advised, and choosing metal or glass bottles can inhibit bacterial development. Regular cleaning is essential, especially after illness, to prevent reinfection and maintain hygiene.

Germs in the Mouth May Play a Key Role in Heart Attacks
health6 months ago

Germs in the Mouth May Play a Key Role in Heart Attacks

A new study suggests that bacteria from the mouth, particularly viridans streptococci, may enter arterial plaques, form biofilms, and contribute to inflammation and plaque rupture, potentially increasing the risk of heart attacks. While this does not imply causation, it highlights a possible link between oral health and heart disease, emphasizing the importance of good dental hygiene alongside traditional cardiovascular risk management.

Promising breakthrough in fighting tooth decay discovered by Israeli study
health2 years ago

Promising breakthrough in fighting tooth decay discovered by Israeli study

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University, together with international collaborators, have discovered that a synthesized molecule called Diindolylmethane (DIM) can reduce the ability of Streptococcus bacteria to produce biofilm by 90%, thereby preventing the bacteria from establishing themselves on teeth and reducing the likelihood of tooth decay. Derived from certain plants in the cruciferous family, DIM could potentially be added to toothpaste and mouthwash to improve oral and dental hygiene.