Microbes

Researchers have developed a tool that rapidly detects bacteria in saliva using SHERLOCK, the evolution of CRISPR. You may soon be leaving the dentist with comprehensive information about the health of your mouth as well as your overall health.

Science often involves sifting through enormous amounts of data, a task that’s overwhelming for humans but a piece of cake for AI. A new platform dubbed BacterAI can conduct 10,000 experiments per day to teach itself – and us – more about bacteria.

They look like they don't have a care in the world - and, as far as their health goes, they may not. Scientists believe the raging organism party in their fur makes them infection-resistant, and could be the key to new superbug-fighting antibiotics.

While it's a stunning example of biological evolution, antibiotics-resistant bacteria is proving to be one huge global health headache. Now, though, scientists believe that our silver bullet in this battle might actually be set in gold.

The squid’s color-changing abilities have fascinated scientists for decades. Now, researchers have created a new squid-inspired artificial skin that can withstand extreme cold and kill microbes, opening the door to a range of potential uses.

While catching sight of Steve Irwin’s best friend and one of nature’s most intimidating ambush predators in the wild would spark fear in anyone, the saltwater crocodile might actually be able to help us in our fight against serious infections.

While crops do sequester some atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) via photosynthesis, they could always use a bit of help. California startup Andes is aiming to provide that help, by putting carbon-capturing microbes in the soil of farmers' fields.

Researchers have resurrected ancient CRISPR proteins from millions and even billions of years ago. Not only can they still edit human cells, but they’re more versatile than modern versions, paving the way for new synthetic CRISPR gene-editing tools.

Name a type of organic matter and chances are some type of organism has evolved to eat it. Plants, meat, algae, insects and bacteria are all consumed by different creatures, but now scientists have discovered something new on the menu – viruses.

Scientists have discovered a completely new branch on the tree of life. This “supergroup” contains an incredibly diverse range of predatory microbes that are extremely different genetically from any other form of life on Earth.

Humans might not be the first lifeforms to face self-induced climate change. A new model suggests Mars was once habitable enough to support microbes, and they may have wiped themselves out by causing irreparable damage to the Red Planet’s atmosphere.

If you needed more motivation to brush your teeth, this could do the trick. Scientists have discovered that cavity-causing bacteria and fungi in saliva can team up to form “superorganisms” that can sprout limbs to crawl and even leap across teeth.