In this blog from Pro-Lab Diagnostics, we round up some of the bigger news stories from the microbiology world in July.
PFAS chemicals can be toxic and have been linked to various health problems and diseases, including but not limited to cardiovascular diseases, cancers, fertility issues and even developmental delays in children.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have made an exciting discovery that may help battle the toxic effects of PFAS on the body.
A family of bacterial species have been identified and tested in Mice. Naturally found in the human gut, these bacterial species have demonstrated promising results during tests, rapidly accumulating toxic PFAS and removing them from the body via excretion. Whilst carrying out tests, scientists discovered that this newly identified gut bacteria soaked between 25%-75% of PFAS within minutes of exposure!
Although not yet tested on humans, the researchers behind the discovery believe that this discovery could be used to create probiotic dietary supplements to protect the body against the toxic effects of PFAS.
A new study by a team of researchers at the Universities of Tübingen and Würzburg has discovered that ingredients in our daily diet, including caffeine, may be influencing the resistance of bacteria to antibiotics.
The study found that gene regulation in bacteria can be systematically influenced, albeit subtly, by several substances, including food ingredients, prescription medications and antibiotics. This means that every day substances, including caffeinated drinks, can change what enters and leaves our body’s bacteria by impacting the gene regulators that control transport proteins.
The lead scientist explained that caffeine triggers a cascade of events that ultimately results in the weakening of the effect of antibiotics.
This contribution to the current understanding of “low-level” antibiotic resistance suggests that greater consideration should be given to what we should and should not have during antibiotic treatments.
A multidisciplinary team of conservation geneticists and biotechnologists believe that gene editing technologies may be key to ensuring the long-term survival of threatened species, such as the Mauritius Pink Pigeon.
Scientists believe that cutting-edge gene editing cannot just preserve species, but may also be used to restore lost genetic DNA and therefore transform the future of biodiversity.
By using DNA from related species as well as specimens held in biobanks and museum collections, the research team believes they can restore genetic variation that several endangered species need to adapt and survive in the ever-changing environment.
Alongside captive breeding and habitat protection, gene editing may be a successful way to preserve and even reintroduce lost species.
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