Microbiology is the branch of biology that studies microorganisms and their interactions with other living things, the environment, and humans. This includes a vast array of organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, many of which are too small to be seen without a microscope. Microbiologists explore the roles these microorganisms play in disease processes, nutrient cycles, and ecological systems. They also harness the beneficial aspects of microbes in industries like biotechnology, medicine, and food production. This field is critical for understanding pathogenic mechanisms, developing antibiotics and vaccines, conducting genetic engineering, and addressing environmental issues such as bioremediation. Advances in microbiology continue to be pivotal in public health, agriculture, and technology development.
Montana State University scientists have discovered two new methane-producing microbial groups in Yellowstone National Park, revealing potential new approaches to climate change mitigation and insights…
Scientists review the extensive influence of microorganisms on Earth’s history, tracing their impact through isotopic and genetic evidence. The study highlights the connection between microbial…
A new study reveals a unique genetic mutation in dogs that may contribute to antimicrobial resistance in E. coli, suggesting dogs as effective models for…
Fungi and lichens threaten Negev Desert’s petroglyphs, eroding ancient artworks through chemical and mechanical means. Southern Israel’s Negev desert is famous for its ancient rock…
A new study could influence the search for life on other planets. Despite years of extensive study, many aspects of the origins and early evolution…
A groundbreaking study reveals a new regulatory mechanism in phage proteins, opening new avenues for understanding bacterial defense mechanisms and developing phage-based therapies. A surprising…
An international team of scientists has transformed our understanding of archaea, ancient microbial ancestors of humans dating back two billion years, by demonstrating their utilization…
Over a six-year study, researchers identified a link between reduced butyrate-producing bacteria in the gut and increased risk of severe infections. The findings suggest the…
A new study aids in clarifying the role of microbes in the global carbon cycle. When soil microbes eat plant matter, the digested food follows…
Researchers have discovered that the microorganism Lacrymaria olor can extend its neck up to 30 times its length through an origami-like cellular architecture. This ability…
A common type of ocean algae plays a significant role in producing a massively abundant compound that helps cool the Earth’s climate, new research has…
Stanford scientists have unveiled “lacrygami,” a phenomenon where Lacrymaria olor extends its structure dramatically, influenced by its cytoskeletal design, promising advances in microscopic technology. “There…
Microbiologists from NIOZ, the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, have discovered that certain parasitic microbes, specifically a group known as DPANN archaea, not only…
Researchers discovered a novel antibacterial mechanism of plectasin, an antibiotic derived from a fungus. The study reveals that plectasin forms Velcro-like structures that trap crucial…
A groundbreaking study reveals that Rhizobia bacteria can fix nitrogen in partnership with marine diatoms, a discovery that could have significant implications for agriculture and…
Hacking the genome of fungi for smart foods of the future. With animal-free dairy products and convincing vegetarian meat substitutes already on the market, it’s…
A new, unusual giant virus has been discovered at a wastewater treatment plant near Vienna. The single-celled organism Naegleria fowleri ranks among the deadliest human…
An increasing amount of research indicates that altering gut bacteria could be a viable strategy for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a persistent and severe…