Search algorithm reveals nearly 200 new kinds of CRISPR systems
By analyzing bacterial data, researchers have discovered thousands of rare new CRISPR systems that have a range of functions and could enable gene editing, diagnostics, and more.
Microbes could help reduce the need for chemical fertilizers
New coating protects nitrogen-fixing bacteria from heat and humidity, which could allow them to be deployed for large-scale agricultural use.
Smart pill can track key biological markers in real-time
Coupling engineered bacteria with low-power electronics could be highly effective in diagnosis, treatment of bowel diseases.
Technologies for water conservation and treatment move closer to commercialization
J-WAFS awards 2023 Solutions Grants to bring two water-related innovations to the market.
Tiny magnetic beads produce an optical signal that could be used to quickly detect pathogens
The findings point to faster way to detect bacteria in food, water, and clinical samples.
Newly discovered bacterial communication system aids antimicrobial resistance
SMART researchers find the enzyme RlmN, which directly senses chemical and environmental stresses, can be targeted in drug development.
Helping to fill in gaps in urology research for female patients
Biologist Nicole De Nisco ’07, PhD ’13 draws on her love of problem-solving and interdisciplinary skills honed as a student at MIT.
Probe expands understanding of oral cavity homeostasis
A new approach opens the door to a greater understanding of protein-microbe interactions.
Chemists discover why photosynthetic light-harvesting is so efficient
The disorganized arrangement of the proteins in light-harvesting complexes is the key to their extreme efficiency.
A novel combination therapy counters antibiotic-resistant Mycobacterium abscessus infections
SMART researchers combine rifaximin and clarithromycin to effectively restore the latter drug's efficacy.
Studying phages far from home
Biology graduate student Tong Zhang has spent the last two years learning the intricacies of how bacteria protect themselves.
J-WAFS announces 2023 seed grant recipients
Fifteen principal investigators from across MIT will conduct early work to solve issues ranging from water contamination to aquaculture monitoring and management.
Scientists track evolution of microbes on the skin’s surface
A new analysis reveals how Staphylococcus aureus gains mutations that allow it to colonize eczema patches.
Bacterial injection system delivers proteins in mice and human cells
With further development, the programmable system could be used in a range of applications including gene and cancer therapies.
A novel combination therapy for treating vancomycin-resistant bacterial infections
Developed at SMART, the therapy stimulates the host immune system to more effectively clear bacterial infections and accelerate infected wound healing.