Latest news with #Microbiome
Time of India
25-05-2025
- Science
- Time of India
NASA acidentally discovers super bacteria that could survive on Mars
In a surprising discovery, NASA scientists found 26 new bacterial species in a JPL clean room, raising concerns about planetary contamination. These resilient microbes, resistant to radiation and toxins, evolved despite rigorous sterilization. While posing a threat to space missions, their unique survival traits could lead to advancements in medicine, food preservation, and biotechnology. According to the study, published in journal Microbiome, the microbes evolved to resist the clean room's repeated sterilization efforts. They boast powerful DNA repair systems, fast metabolism, and the ability to neutralize toxins. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Bacteria Built for the Impossible Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads More Than a Space Threat: Earthly Benefits Too Stronger antibiotics or extreme-condition medicines Better food preservation methods without synthetic additives Innovative materials for use in biotechnology and manufacturing Could They Survive on Mars? In an unexpected twist, NASA scientists have discovered 26 previously unknown species of bacteria—right inside one of the cleanest places on Earth. The find, made at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), reveals that some microbes are not only resilient but may even be capable of surviving the extreme conditions of Mars The bacteria were found in a highly sterilized clean room at JPL, where the Phoenix spacecraft was assembled in 2007. Designed to be virtually free of life to prevent contaminating other planets, the lab instead harbored 215 bacterial strains. Among them, scientists identified 53 strains that belonged to 26 never-before-seen bacteria were already present before the spacecraft arrived. Others appeared during its construction and testing. Despite rigorous sterilization procedures, including exposure to toxic chemicals and radiation, these microbes didn't just survive—they adapted.'This is a serious concern for planetary protection ,' microbiologist Alexandre Rosado was quoted as saying by the Dailygalaxy. He noted that such organisms could accidentally hitch a ride to other worlds, potentially interfering with life-detection newly discovered microbes possess traits typically found in Earth's most extreme environments. They showed high resistance to radiation, toxic substances, and disinfection chemicals—features that echo extremophiles like those living in deep-sea vents or to the study, published in journal Microbiome, the microbes evolved to resist the clean room's repeated sterilization efforts. They boast powerful DNA repair systems, fast metabolism, and the ability to neutralize toxins. As co-author Junia Schultz from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) put it, 'They're true survivalists.'While their resilience raises concerns about planetary contamination, these bacteria could offer breakthroughs here on believe the same genes that help them endure harsh conditions could aid in developing:This accidental discovery also reinforces the need for more stringent cleanliness standards in space missions. NASA has already begun reviewing protocols to minimize the risk of microbial contamination during future interplanetary big question: Could these bacteria survive off Earth?While that's still being studied, their durability certainly raises the possibility. If Earth microbes are accidentally introduced to Mars or another planet, they could interfere with life-detection missions or be mistaken for alien life . They could outcompete native organisms—if any exist in the alien has previously conducted experiments on how microbes handle near-space environments, and this new research adds a powerful data point to that growing body of scientists continue to push the boundaries of space and life sciences, these rogue bacteria may turn out to be unlikely pioneers—showing us both the strength of life on Earth and the care needed when searching for it elsewhere.
NDTV
16-05-2025
- Science
- NDTV
NASA's Cleanrooms Discover 26 New Types Of Bacteria That Could Survive Space
New Delhi: Scientists have discovered 26 new types of bacteria growing inside NASA's cleanrooms - the place where spacecraft are built. These species can survive in extreme conditions similar to those found in space, according to a study published in Microbiome. The study, conducted by scientists at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia and in collaboration with NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, appears to be a surprising discovery given how clean and sterilised NASA's cleanrooms are to keep spacecraft free from contamination. NASA builds satellite rovers in cleanrooms where temperature, humidity and airflow are controlled to keep the environment super clean, making it impossible for bacteria to survive. The team noted that some can even survive radiation or resist harmful chemicals. This suggests that they could potentially withstand the harsh environment of space travel. Dr Kasthuri Venkateswaran, retired Senior Research Scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and a lead author of the study, said, "This partnership not only supports Saudi Arabia's ambitious vision through the Saudi Space Agency but also reinforces KAUST's emergence as a global leader in microbial and space biology research." He added, "Together, we are unravelling the mysteries of microbes that withstand the extreme conditions of space." Professor Alexandre Rosado, the lead KAUST researcher on the project, said the study helps understand the types of microbes that could survive and travel to space. It is crucial to avoid spreading these Earth germs to other planets during space missions, he said. "Our study aimed to understand the risk of extremophiles being transferred in space missions by analysing their genetic traits," he said. Postdoctoral researcher Junia Schultz, who supervised the study, mentioned that these microbes weren't just a warning but could also be useful as their special genes might help us create new medicines, ensure food safety, or be used for other experiements in the future.
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
MaaT Pharma Announces Promising Final Data Readout for Phase 1b Evaluating MaaT033 in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
LYON, France, May 12, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regulatory News: MaaT Pharma (EURONEXT: MAAT – the "Company"), a clinical-stage biotechnology company and a leader in the development of Microbiome Ecosystem TherapiesTM (MET) dedicated to enhancing survival for patients with cancer through immune modulation, announced additional findings following full data readout for the exploratory single-arm, open-label Phase 1b clinical trial named IASO (NCT05889572) evaluating MaaT033 in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). In November 2024, the Company announced that the trial had met its primary endpoint assessing the safety and tolerability of MaaT033 with multiple doses, following the independent Data Safety and Monitoring Board (DSMB) conclusion. As a reminder, the exploratory Phase 1b trial enrolled a total of 15 participants across two centers in France Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière – AP-HP and the University Hospital of Lille. An external Scientific Advisory Committee took place at the end of March 2025 to review the full data. Below are the key takeaways from the Committee's review: MaaT033 demonstrated a favorable safety and tolerability profile, supported by biomarker and microbiome analyses. A rapid and sustained engraftment of bacterial species from MaaT033 was observed, mostly occurring within the first month and maintained during the 1-month follow-up period. A slower rate of disease progression (based on ALSFRS-R slopes) was noted to be interpreted with caution given the short follow up, limited sample size and single-arm Phase 1b design. The ALSFRS-R is a standard functional scale in ALS trials to track the progression of the disease. The slope reflects how many points are "lost" (=disease progression) per month. In the final data readout for the IASO trial, the following was observed for the ALSFRS-R Total score slope: From first symptoms to baseline, the median slope was –0.7 points/month (range: –1.2 to –0.3) From baseline to Day 84 (D84), the median slope slowed to –0.3 points/month (range: –2.4 to +1.0) No variation at D84 in the levels of neurofilaments, a marker associated with neuronal injury in ALS. In addition, the Scientific Advisory Committee provided insights regarding the best population to target in a Phase 2 trial. "These encouraging findings from the IASO Phase 1b trial confirm the favorable safety and tolerability profile of MaaT033 in ALS patients. They also highlight the therapeutic potential of microbiome modulation beyond oncology and open new avenues for development in neurodegenerative diseases, as evidence continues to grow around the gut-brain connection," said Gianfranco Pittari, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Officer of MaaT Pharma. The study was conducted in close collaboration with the French patient association Tous en Selles contre la SLA (TECS), highlighting the essential role of patients and their advocates in advancing science, and with the support of experts from the French academic networks FILSLAN and ACT4ALS-MND. "Recognizing the significant unmet medical need in ALS and with the will to support those affected, we applied our discovery platform to this new disease area, demonstrating its potential beyond our primary focus in oncology with encouraging Phase 1 data. In light of the Company's strict financial discipline, and considering the recent successes achieved in oncology, we are actively seeking partners with a focus on ALS and the financial capacity to support new options to fight this disease," stated Hervé Affagard, CEO and co-founder of MaaT Pharma. –-- About MaaT033MaaT033, a standardized, donor-derived, high-richness, high-diversity oral Microbiome Ecosystem TherapyTM containing anti-inflammatory ButycoreTM species, is currently being developed as an adjunctive therapy to improve overall survival in patients receiving HSCT and other cellular therapies. MaaT033 is developed with the "pooling" technology, which allows pooling donations from multiple donors to create a standardized product with high microbial richness and diversity. It aims to ensure optimal microbiota function and to address a larger patient population in a chronic setting. MaaT033 has been granted Orphan Drug Designation by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). About Amyotrophic Lateral SclerosisAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease in the US and Charcot's disease in Europe, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. This leads to muscle weakness, loss of voluntary movement, and eventually, paralysis and on an average lead to death in 3 to 5 years. ALS could affect up to 60,000 patients in US and EU by 2040 and has currently no curative treatment and few symptomatic treatments. About MaaT PharmaMaaT Pharma is a leading, late-stage clinical company focused on developing innovative gut microbiome-driven therapies to modulate the immune system and enhance cancer patient survival. Supported by a talented team committed to making a difference for patients worldwide, the Company was founded in 2014 and is based in Lyon, a pioneer, MaaT Pharma is leading the way in bringing the first microbiome-driven immunomodulator in oncology. Using its proprietary pooling and co-cultivation technologies, MaaT Pharma develops high diversity, standardized drug candidates, aiming at extending life of cancer patients. MaaT Pharma has been listed on Euronext Paris (ticker: MAAT) since 2021. Forward-looking StatementsAll statements other than statements of historical fact included in this press release about future events are subject to (i) change without notice and (ii) factors beyond the Company's control. These statements may include, without limitation, any statements preceded by, followed by, or including words such as "target," "believe," "expect," "aim", "intend," "may," "anticipate," "estimate," "plan," "project," "will," "can have," "likely," "should," "would," "could" and other words and terms of similar meaning or the negative thereof. Forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control that could cause the Company's actual results or performance to be materially different from the expected results or performance expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. View source version on Contacts MaaT Pharma – Investor RelationsGuilhaume DEBROAS, of Investor Relations+33 6 16 48 92 50invest@ MaaT Pharma – Media RelationsPauline RICHAUDSenior PR & Corporate Communications Manager+33 6 14 06 45 92media@ Rx Communications Group – U.S. Investor Relations Michael MillerManaging Director+1-917-633-6086mmiller@ Catalytic Agency – U.S. Media Relations Heather SheaMedia relations for MaaT Pharma +1 617-286-2013 Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
MaaT Pharma Announces Promising Final Data Readout for Phase 1b Evaluating MaaT033 in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
LYON, France, May 12, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regulatory News: MaaT Pharma (EURONEXT: MAAT – the "Company"), a clinical-stage biotechnology company and a leader in the development of Microbiome Ecosystem TherapiesTM (MET) dedicated to enhancing survival for patients with cancer through immune modulation, announced additional findings following full data readout for the exploratory single-arm, open-label Phase 1b clinical trial named IASO (NCT05889572) evaluating MaaT033 in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). In November 2024, the Company announced that the trial had met its primary endpoint assessing the safety and tolerability of MaaT033 with multiple doses, following the independent Data Safety and Monitoring Board (DSMB) conclusion. As a reminder, the exploratory Phase 1b trial enrolled a total of 15 participants across two centers in France Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière – AP-HP and the University Hospital of Lille. An external Scientific Advisory Committee took place at the end of March 2025 to review the full data. Below are the key takeaways from the Committee's review: MaaT033 demonstrated a favorable safety and tolerability profile, supported by biomarker and microbiome analyses. A rapid and sustained engraftment of bacterial species from MaaT033 was observed, mostly occurring within the first month and maintained during the 1-month follow-up period. A slower rate of disease progression (based on ALSFRS-R slopes) was noted to be interpreted with caution given the short follow up, limited sample size and single-arm Phase 1b design. The ALSFRS-R is a standard functional scale in ALS trials to track the progression of the disease. The slope reflects how many points are "lost" (=disease progression) per month. In the final data readout for the IASO trial, the following was observed for the ALSFRS-R Total score slope: From first symptoms to baseline, the median slope was –0.7 points/month (range: –1.2 to –0.3) From baseline to Day 84 (D84), the median slope slowed to –0.3 points/month (range: –2.4 to +1.0) No variation at D84 in the levels of neurofilaments, a marker associated with neuronal injury in ALS. In addition, the Scientific Advisory Committee provided insights regarding the best population to target in a Phase 2 trial. "These encouraging findings from the IASO Phase 1b trial confirm the favorable safety and tolerability profile of MaaT033 in ALS patients. They also highlight the therapeutic potential of microbiome modulation beyond oncology and open new avenues for development in neurodegenerative diseases, as evidence continues to grow around the gut-brain connection," said Gianfranco Pittari, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Officer of MaaT Pharma. The study was conducted in close collaboration with the French patient association Tous en Selles contre la SLA (TECS), highlighting the essential role of patients and their advocates in advancing science, and with the support of experts from the French academic networks FILSLAN and ACT4ALS-MND. "Recognizing the significant unmet medical need in ALS and with the will to support those affected, we applied our discovery platform to this new disease area, demonstrating its potential beyond our primary focus in oncology with encouraging Phase 1 data. In light of the Company's strict financial discipline, and considering the recent successes achieved in oncology, we are actively seeking partners with a focus on ALS and the financial capacity to support new options to fight this disease," stated Hervé Affagard, CEO and co-founder of MaaT Pharma. –-- About MaaT033MaaT033, a standardized, donor-derived, high-richness, high-diversity oral Microbiome Ecosystem TherapyTM containing anti-inflammatory ButycoreTM species, is currently being developed as an adjunctive therapy to improve overall survival in patients receiving HSCT and other cellular therapies. MaaT033 is developed with the "pooling" technology, which allows pooling donations from multiple donors to create a standardized product with high microbial richness and diversity. It aims to ensure optimal microbiota function and to address a larger patient population in a chronic setting. MaaT033 has been granted Orphan Drug Designation by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). About Amyotrophic Lateral SclerosisAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease in the US and Charcot's disease in Europe, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. This leads to muscle weakness, loss of voluntary movement, and eventually, paralysis and on an average lead to death in 3 to 5 years. ALS could affect up to 60,000 patients in US and EU by 2040 and has currently no curative treatment and few symptomatic treatments. About MaaT PharmaMaaT Pharma is a leading, late-stage clinical company focused on developing innovative gut microbiome-driven therapies to modulate the immune system and enhance cancer patient survival. Supported by a talented team committed to making a difference for patients worldwide, the Company was founded in 2014 and is based in Lyon, a pioneer, MaaT Pharma is leading the way in bringing the first microbiome-driven immunomodulator in oncology. Using its proprietary pooling and co-cultivation technologies, MaaT Pharma develops high diversity, standardized drug candidates, aiming at extending life of cancer patients. MaaT Pharma has been listed on Euronext Paris (ticker: MAAT) since 2021. Forward-looking StatementsAll statements other than statements of historical fact included in this press release about future events are subject to (i) change without notice and (ii) factors beyond the Company's control. These statements may include, without limitation, any statements preceded by, followed by, or including words such as "target," "believe," "expect," "aim", "intend," "may," "anticipate," "estimate," "plan," "project," "will," "can have," "likely," "should," "would," "could" and other words and terms of similar meaning or the negative thereof. Forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control that could cause the Company's actual results or performance to be materially different from the expected results or performance expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. View source version on Contacts MaaT Pharma – Investor RelationsGuilhaume DEBROAS, of Investor Relations+33 6 16 48 92 50invest@ MaaT Pharma – Media RelationsPauline RICHAUDSenior PR & Corporate Communications Manager+33 6 14 06 45 92media@ Rx Communications Group – U.S. Investor Relations Michael MillerManaging Director+1-917-633-6086mmiller@ Catalytic Agency – U.S. Media Relations Heather SheaMedia relations for MaaT Pharma +1 617-286-2013
Yahoo
09-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Forget apples — doctors find eating this fruit daily can lower depression risk by 20%
A healthy gut helps you digest your food and absorb its nutrients, strengthens your immune system and reduces your risk of certain chronic diseases. But not everyone realizes that having a happy belly also has a major impact on your mood since about 90% of your body's serotonin and over 50% of your dopamine — two crucial neurotransmitters responsible for making you feel good — are produced in your gut. For this reason, scientists often call the gut 'the second brain.' And while an apple a day may keep the doctor away, research shows an orange a day might keep the blues at bay. Dr. Raaj Mehta, a physician and instructor at Harvard Medical School, and his colleagues analyzed the data of over 30,000 women and found that those who consumed a lot of citrus were much less likely to develop depression than those who didn't. Their findings were published late last year in the journal Microbiome. 'We found that eating one medium orange a day may lower the risk of developing depression by about 20%,' Mehta told the Harvard Gazette last month. 'And the effect seems to be specific to citrus. When we look at people's total fruit or vegetable consumption, or at other individual fruits such as apples or bananas, we don't see any relationship between intake and risk of depression.' Using stool samples, researchers discovered eating more citrus was associated with increased levels of a beneficial gut bacterium called Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (F. prausnitzii), which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties but might also help serotonin and dopamine make their way to the brain. A study published in 2022 found that eating fewer citrus fruits was clearly associated with a heightened risk of depression in patients with chronic health failure. However, Mehta noted that it's 'hard to compare the effectiveness of citrus to traditional antidepressants…because we're talking about preventingdepression, and those drugs are usually used to treatdepression once a person is already experiencing it.' The researchers also acknowledged that their study had certain limitations, as most of the participants were white, middle-aged women; additionally, while they controlled for several factors, there's still the possibility that their findings were correlational rather than causal. Still, eating an orange — or lemon or grapefruit, if that's what you prefer — a day certainly can't hurt, and the study sheds light on the relationship between the gut and the brain, as well as the role these fruits play on it. 'I hope our results inspire other researchers to look into the link between diet and mental health,' Mehta said. 'I think people know intuitively that the foods we eat impact our mood. We even have a term for this: comfort foods, which make ourselves feel better in the short term.' 'There's such a huge unmet need for depression treatments, and eating citrus doesn't really have any major side effects,' he added, 'so it would be great to see how much this simple treatment can help.'
