THE COOL DOWN - Scientists at the University of California-Riverside recently discovered a chemical that plants produce that could help prevent infections in medical patients.
Science Daily reported on the findings, explaining that biofilm is a slimy bacterial layer that clings to surfaces. In a medical setting, this film can make it harder to treat infections when they form on devices like catheters and implants. It can also damage medical equipment.
Plants produce a metabolite — a molecule that is produced during the life-sustaining chemical reactions inside plants — called MEcPP when they are stressed. This molecule then triggers protective responses within the plant. In this study, the researchers found that it also disrupts biofilm development by interfering with bacteria's ability to attach to surfaces.
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As for the new research from UC Riverside, "This study is a testament to the unexpected connections between plant biology and microbiology," lead author Jingzhe Guo said, per Science Daily. "It's thrilling to think a molecule that plants use to signal stress might one day help humans combat bacterial threats."
"By preventing the early stages of biofilm development, this molecule offers real potential to improve outcomes in any industries reliant on clean surfaces," added corresponding author Katayoon Dehesh.