Bacteria
Ancient viral remnants in bacteria point to new antiviral strategies
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Penn State researchers report a bacterial defense that repurposes dormant viral DNA: a recombinase enzyme called PinQ flips a stretch of genome to produce protective proteins that block infection, work described in Nucleic Acids Research.
Researchers have identified a toxin from bacteria commonly found in dirty water that kills protective immune cells in the colon, increasing the risk of ulcerative colitis. This discovery, from studies in humans and mice, suggests new treatment possibilities for the inflammatory bowel disease. The findings highlight the role of macrophage-toxic bacteria in triggering the condition.
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Antibiotic resistance has surged globally, outpacing treatment options, according to a new World Health Organization report. One in six lab-confirmed bacteria in 2023 resisted antibiotics, linked to common diseases. The trend poses a growing threat to public health.