#bacteriophage
Coloured transmission electron micrograph (TEM) of T2 bacteriophage viruses (orange) attacking an Escherichia coli bacterium. Each phage consists of a large DNA- containing head and a tail composed of a central sheath with several fibres. The fibres attach to the host cell surface, and the phage DNA is injected into the cell through the sheath. It instructs the host to build copies of the phage (progeny, in cell). Destroying the host’s DNA releases nucleotide building blocks, from which phage DNA is synthesised. It is then packaged in the progeny, which are released when the host bursts. Magnification: x64,000.
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A team of doctors and researchers working at Erasmus Hospital in Belgium has successfully treated an adult woman infected with a drug-resistant bacteria using a combination of bacteriophage therapy and antibiotics. In their paper published in the journal Nature Communications, the group describes the reasons for the use of the treatment and the ways it might be used in other cases.
Bacteriophages are viruses that infect and kill bacteria. Research involving their use in human patients has been ongoing for several decades, but they are still not used to treat patients. In this new effort, the researchers were presented with a unique opportunity not only to treat a patient in need of help, but to learn more about the possible use of viruses to treat patients infected with bacteria that have become resistant to conventional antibiotics.
UK artist Luke Jerram managed to impress us through his art of “Class Microbiology”. The artist created intricate glass sculptures of deadly viruses and bacteria such as HIV, swine flu, small pox, and E. coli.
Jerram’s personal experience with swine flu fueled his motivation for the collection. Check out photos below or go to his website to see more of Jerram’s stunning glass work :)
Human Papillomavirus
T4 Bacteriophage
Swine Flu
E. coli
SARS
cr: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/12/glass-microbiology-luke-jerram-viruses_n_3586354.html
- irda w
