Science topic

Microorganisms - Science topic

Explore the latest questions and answers in Microorganisms, and find Microorganisms experts.
Questions related to Microorganisms
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
1 answer
I'm working with a microbial consortium in a bioreactor. The microbial community acts as a black box, and I'm trying to elucidate what's inside and how it changes over time. I'm planning to perform metagenomic analysis and MAG reconstruction at time point 1 and then observe what happens at later time points.
I'm planning to take samples at more than two time points. I'm a bit unsure whether I can reconstruct MAGs just once—using data from the first time point—and then use those MAGs to align the reads from the other time points, or if I should reconstruct MAGs separately or jointly using reads from multiple time points.
I'm planning to see how the presence/absence and abundance of the microorganisms in the consortia change over time in the bioreactor system. I would appreciate any paper/review recommendation to read.
Relevant answer
Answer
It is a very common practice and can either be done with MAGs or simply by 16S*.
* = depending on several things.
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
3 answers
What is the effect of adding herbicides on microorganisms?
Relevant answer
Answer
This research might be helpful to your research dear Saad Ali Hussein .
Our Toxic Relationship with Herbicides
Herbicides pose risks to the environment and to human health, but they are also the best tool land managers have for controlling invasive plants, which themselves can cause harm to ecosystems. One Mississippi State University graduate student in forestry looks toward potential solutions to this conundrum...
"Although herbicides are currently our best tool in this fight, we cannot and should not rely on them forever. Some invasive plants have already developed resistance, which renders current herbicides useless against them and will likely render them useless against more plants in the future. We could develop new herbicides, but they would likely continue to create issues for both human and environmental health.
The solution to the problems caused by herbicides is not to turn a blind eye to the issues they cause, but to develop better solutions for invasive plant management — ideally, new management methods that are targeted at a few or single species, are safer for humans, and have a lower environmental impact. Research is currently being done to create control methods that target only one species (methods such as biological control, RNAi, and autotoxicity), which would allow us to kill only the invasive plants while leaving other organisms, including humans, unharmed...
It takes more work to develop a species-specific management method for every invasive plant than it does to create one indiscriminately killing herbicide. But I believe that this is the most sustainable way for us to manage invasive plants while causing the least harm..."
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
1 answer
I need collaborators from South Africa and Delhi. I am working on "Genome sequencing of beneficial microbes for enhanced production of industrial and pharmaceutical solvents". Collaboration from Research laboratories for genome sequencing from these two countries are needed also. Thanks.
Relevant answer
Answer
Well, Delhi is not a country. So, it is not clear if you are only looking to collaborate with any institute in Delhi or anywhere in India. Contact me if you want to collaborate with university not located in Delhi.
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
4 answers
DNA barcoding is widely used for species identification across animals, plants, and microbes, with numerous studies and references available in this field. However, I have not come across any work that uses RNA Barcoding for identifying species in these groups. I would greatly appreciate it if anyone could share references or studies related to the application of RNA Barcoding for species identification."
Relevant answer
Answer
Thanks again, Dr. Katie A. S. Burnette, for your further response.
So, I should write it like this (in Bengali): Although the RNA barcoding technique can be used for species identification, due to certain challenges and costs, it is usually not preferred for this purpose.
By the way, I came across a company that mentions one of their services as follows (https://ohmx.bio/applications/microbiome-analysis-2/): "Direct DNA or RNA sequencing enables base modification identification in relation to microbiome analysis." However, I am unsure whether they specifically offer RNA barcoding for species identification, which is what I am looking for.
Best regards,
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
3 answers
Plasmodium are micro-organisms that cause malaria. It is a single celled micro-organism that has a complex cycle in the human body.
Relevant answer
Answer
Plasmodium species, which are parasitic protozoa responsible for malaria, play a role in the food chain, albeit indirectly. Their role is primarily as parasites within ecosystems rather than as primary producers or consumers. The following elucidates their position in the food chain:
1. Contribution to Predator-Prey Interactions
Plasmodium affects hosts such as mosquitoes and vertebrates (e.g., humans, birds, and reptiles), altering their behaviour and increasing their vulnerability to predation.
Infected mosquitoes may become more susceptible to predation by insectivorous animals such as birds and bats.
Infected vertebrates may exhibit reduced fitness and increased susceptibility to predators, contributing to natural selection and population regulation.
2. Nutrient Cycling and Decomposition
As a component of host-parasite interactions, Plasmodium contributes to nutrient cycling. Upon the death of infected hosts, decomposition processes return nutrients to the environment, indirectly supporting detritivores and decomposers.
3. Regulation of Host Populations
By inducing disease in host populations, Plasmodium can function as a natural control mechanism, mitigating the overpopulation of certain species, and thereby contributing to the maintenance of ecological equilibrium.
4. Influence on Biodiversity and Evolution
The evolutionary pressure exerted by Plasmodium has resulted in genetic adaptations in hosts (e.g., sickle cell trait in humans), influencing biodiversity and species resilience.
While Plasmodium does not serve as a direct food source, its parasitic interactions influence ecological dynamics, rendering it an indirect yet significant component of the food web.
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
5 answers
I am culturing bacteria from the genus Vibrio from marine sediment. I want to use a liquid culture medium (broth) for harvesting the plasmids. Is there any simple method for growing this bacterium in a broth medium ?? Thank you all in advance!
Relevant answer
Answer
what if various vibrio species? can ts broth be used?
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
3 answers
By knowing the root secretions, it is possible to identify the microbial species.
Relevant answer
Answer
Root exudates contain nutrients that microorganisms need for their metabolism, making them attractive to microorganisms.
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
1 answer
I have a consortium of agar-degrading microorganisms on the f/2 agar plate, and they have somewhat liquidated the agar. Now I want to know how to collect the bacterial culture from the plate and cryopreserve it so that there is no agar debris in it that could hinder the cryopreservation process. Are there specific cryoprotectants or freezing methods that are recommended for these types of microorganisms?
Relevant answer
Answer
If you want to preserve the consortium (instead of just specific colonies) then I would add some buffer or media to the surface (a few ml) and scrape all the cells off. Mix well and use some aliquot to freeze away. I doubt that a small amount of agar will be inhibitory in any significant way.
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
2 answers
can centrifuging make salivary supernatant cell/microbe free (sterile)?
pls can somebody give a link to such a study that carried out microbial analysis of salivary supernatant.
Relevant answer
Answer
No, you can't fully sterilize by centrifugation. Although you can remove many bacteria that way, some will always remain in solution. And viruses would not be removed at all.
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
1 answer
control on microorganisms
Relevant answer
Answer
Preventing infection after a dental implant procedure is critical for the success of the implant and the patient’s overall oral health. The following steps can minimize the risk of infection:
1. Pre-Operative Precautions
  • Comprehensive Dental Examination: Conduct a thorough oral health assessment to identify and treat existing dental or periodontal infections before implant placement.
  • Prophylactic Antibiotics: Some dentists prescribe antibiotics before the surgery, particularly for patients with a higher risk of infection (e.g., immunocompromised individuals, diabetics, or those with a history of infections).
  • Oral Hygiene Instruction: Ensure the patient understands proper oral hygiene practices before the procedure.
  • Smoking Cessation: Encourage the patient to stop smoking, as it significantly increases the risk of infection and implant failure.
2. During the Procedure
  • Sterile Technique: Ensure that the surgical field, instruments, and equipment are sterile.
  • Aseptic Environment: Perform the procedure in a controlled environment to minimize contamination.
  • Proper Placement: Ensure precise implant placement to reduce trauma and avoid complications.
3. Post-Operative Care
a) Oral Hygiene Maintenance
  • Brush gently around the surgical site with a soft-bristled toothbrush or a surgical toothbrush.
  • Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse (e.g., chlorhexidine) as prescribed to reduce bacterial load.
  • Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting immediately after surgery to prevent dislodging the clot.
b) Antibiotic Therapy
  • Take the prescribed antibiotics as directed to prevent post-operative infection.
c) Pain Management
  • Use anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., ibuprofen) to manage swelling and pain, as inflammation can lead to secondary infections.
d) Diet and Hydration
  • Stick to a soft food diet for the first few days to avoid disturbing the implant site.
  • Avoid hot or spicy foods that could irritate the area.
e) Avoidance of Risk Factors
  • Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can delay healing and increase infection risk.
  • Refrain from touching the surgical area with fingers or tongue.
4. Follow-Up Care
  • Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
  • Inform the dentist immediately if there are signs of infection, such as: Persistent swelling or redness. Increased pain after the initial healing phase. Pus discharge or a foul taste in the mouth. Fever or other systemic symptoms.
5. Long-Term Maintenance
  • Practice consistent oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily and flossing.
  • Consider regular dental cleanings to reduce plaque buildup.
  • Use an antimicrobial mouthwash periodically if recommended.
6. For High-Risk Patients
  • For patients with diabetes, control blood sugar levels to enhance wound healing.
  • Patients on immunosuppressants or with systemic diseases should consult with their healthcare provider before undergoing implant surgery.
You have to follow these steps and working closely with the dentist, patients can significantly reduce the risk of infection and ensure the longevity of their dental implants. Thank you.
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
2 answers
Is there a possibility that an increase in chlorophyll density correlates with root infection by specific microorganisms?
Relevant answer
Answer
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
3 answers
These micro objects found in Eocene palynological slides. The sediment intervals are volcanosedimentens and shales. But I am palynologist and I was not in field and sampling. They are more similar to dissolve crystals in HF and HCl maceration. Could you please help me to identify these crystals or with less probability microorganisms?
I attached five photos of Eocene dinoflagellates and micro objects ringed in red circles.
With regards,
Jafar Sabouri
Relevant answer
I agree with Bruno. Those look like ascidian spicules. Although identification from transmitted light is more challenging than SEM pics, you can see their crystalline structure (they are most probably aragonitic). More precise assignment would be problematic from these pictures, but the one from the picture 1402.2 could be some Didemnum species  "(...) namely
D. membranaceum Sluiter, 1909 is characterized by similar spicules (Kott 2004, fig. 19g). There is also D. candidum described by Van Name as D. candidum fusiferum (1945, fig. 37), in which some of the spicules are of similar shape." (like the spicules illustrated on the Fig. 2 W, X of my latest paper).
If you need a more precise assignment you should consider taking SEM photographs of these spicules. You definitely have some shallow water (?) marine deposits mixed up with volcanic sediments there...
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
2 answers
Sesbania is a leguminous green manuring crop. Its decomposition increased soil microbes. Which microbes availability is higher rather rhizobium, in sesbania, decomposed soil, ?Do that microbes have any positive impact in salty soil?
Relevant answer
Answer
Sesbania decomposition enriches the soil with a variety of beneficial microbes, beyond just Rhizobium. Key microbial groups that increase include:
  1. Actinobacteria: Break down complex organic matter and are beneficial in salty soils by improving soil structure and nutrient availability.
  2. Bacillus species: Tolerant to saline conditions, they promote nutrient cycling, plant growth, and help suppress soil pathogens.
  3. Pseudomonas species: Adaptable bacteria that aid in plant growth and are often salt-tolerant.
  4. Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF): These fungi enhance water and nutrient uptake, particularly phosphorus, which is essential for plants in saline soils.
Benefits in Saline Soils
These microbes enhance nutrient availability, improve soil structure, and increase plant salt tolerance, all of which contribute to better soil health and plant growth in salty conditions.
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
1 answer
What are exopolysaccharides, example and their use
Relevant answer
Answer
Exopolysaccharides (EPS) are high-molecular-weight polysaccharides secreted by microorganisms into their surrounding environment. They play critical roles in various biological functions, including biofilm formation, cell protection, and intercellular communication. In food systems, EPS are particularly valued for their functional properties, which can enhance texture, stability, and flavor. Below is a discussion of various types of EPS produced by microorganisms, examples, and their applications in food systems.
### Types of Exopolysaccharides and Their Sources
1. **Dextran**:
- **Source**: Produced by *Leuconostoc mesenteroides*.
- **Use**: Commonly used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier in food products like sauces, salad dressings, and dairy products. It can improve mouthfeel and prevent syneresis in gels.
2. **Xanthan Gum**:
- **Source**: Produced by *Xanthomonas campestris*.
- **Use**: Widely used in gluten-free baking, salad dressings, and sauces due to its thickening and stabilizing properties. Xanthan gum can also improve the texture and viscosity of beverages and dairy products.
3. **Gellan Gum**:
- **Source**: Produced by *Sphingomonas elodea*.
- **Use**: Utilized as a gelling agent in jellies, desserts, and yogurt. Gellan gum can form firm gels at low concentrations and can be tailored to create a range of textures.
4. **Guar Gum**:
- **Source**: Derived from the guar bean (*Cyamopsis tetragonoloba*).
- **Use**: Employed as a thickening agent in various food applications, including baked goods, dairy products, and sauces. It enhances moisture retention and improves the texture of gluten-free products.
5. **Alginate**:
- **Source**: Extracted from brown seaweeds (e.g., *Laminaria* species).
- **Use**: Commonly used in the food industry as a thickening and gelling agent. Alginate is also utilized in encapsulation technologies for flavor and probiotic delivery in food products.
6. **Carrageenan**:
- **Source**: Extracted from red seaweeds (e.g., *Chondrus crispus*).
- **Use**: Used for thickening and stabilizing dairy products, plant-based milks, and meat products. Carrageenan can also enhance texture and mouthfeel in various applications.
### Functional Properties in Food Systems
- **Thickening and Gelling**: Many EPS, like xanthan and gellan gums, provide thickening and gelling properties, enhancing product texture and stability.
- **Emulsification**: EPS can act as emulsifiers, helping to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, which is critical in dressings and sauces.
- **Stabilization**: They help prevent phase separation and improve the shelf life of products by stabilizing dispersions.
- **Texture Modification**: EPS can alter the mouthfeel and overall sensory properties of food, contributing to consumer satisfaction.
- **Prebiotic Effects**: Some EPS can act as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial gut microbiota, which can be advantageous for health-focused food products.
### Conclusion
The use of exopolysaccharides produced by microorganisms in food systems is diverse and impactful. Their unique functional properties make them valuable ingredients in improving food texture, stability, and shelf life. As consumer demand for clean-label and natural ingredients increases, the utilization of EPS from microbial sources is likely to expand in various food applications.
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
3 answers
Dear Respected Scientists and Scholars
We are leading a Special Issue of the journal Plants on the subject of "Advanced Research on Rhizosphere Microorganisms: Plant–Microbial Interactions and Sustainable Agriculture". Based on your expertise in this field, we would like to invite you to contribute a review or full research paper for peer-review and possible publication in this Special Issue. Your paper will have 20% discount. Wewill also treat your paper as a "Feature Paper".
For further information about this Special Issue, please see:
For information on manuscript preparation and related matters, please see the instructions for authors:
Although the deadline for manuscript submission is 30 April 2025, we would appreciate hearing from you in the next few weeks as to whether you are interested in submitting a paper in order to help with the planning.
Best regards,
Guest Editor
Dr. Mohamad Hesam Shahrajabian
Dr. Spyridon A. Petropoulos
Dr. Wenli Sun
--
/Plants/ (ISSN 2223-7747) is an open access journal that covers all key areas of plant science, supported by an outstanding Editorial Board composed of high-profile researchers (https://www.mdpi.com/journal/plants/editors). The current IF is 4.0. It ranks Q1 in the category 'Plant Sciences'.
Relevant answer
Answer
We may publish one of our research in to the mentioned special issue of this reputed journal. Thanks for sharing @ Dr. Mohamad Hesam Shahrajabian
  • asked a question related to Microorganisms
Question
2 answers
There is growing interest in techniques like single-cell genomics and metagenomics to study microbes that are difficult to culture using traditional methods.
Relevant answer
Answer
There is no best method.
1) they are not cultivable
2) complex environments will have their own flora that will obscure the putative 1st time isolate
3) ypu'll have no ide what the novel growth will appear to be