Tag

Cyanobacterium

All articles tagged with #cyanobacterium

science2 years ago

"Double the Toxins: Infamous 'Eagle Killer' Bacterium Unveils Dual Threat"

The cyanobacterium Aetokthonos hydrillicola, known for causing a mysterious disease among bald eagles in the USA, has been found to produce not one, but two highly potent toxins. The second toxin, named "aetokthonostatin," was recently discovered by an international team of researchers. This toxin, similar to substances used in cancer treatment, can destroy cells even in low concentrations. The findings could potentially aid in the development of new drugs to fight cancer. The researchers also recommend monitoring waters for Aetokthonos hydrillicola and its toxins to mitigate potential risks to human health.

science2 years ago

Real-Time Study of Circadian Clock a First for Science

Scientists have studied the circadian clock and its responses to environmental cues in real-time for the first time using a tiny aquatic organism called a cyanobacterium. The team looked at the cyanobacterium's core oscillator, studying the ways its output acts as a signal for timekeeping. The research revealed several new insights, including the fact that enzymes known as kinases that mediate genetic expression are more closely related to the clock function than previously thought. This method of real-time monitoring can be used to better understand how our own internal circadian rhythms work and how their timekeeping has an effect on the rest of our bodies.