Scientists have developed plant ‘probiotics’ that help fight disease without the use of expensive pesticides. UK researchers say beneficial bacteria in soil supports plants’ immune systems in a similar way to positive gut bacteria in humans. By injecting probiotics into a plant’s growth medium, they hope to create ideal growing conditions year-round for herbs, fruits … Read more
Mother Nature seems to be releasing her fury on the US – first murderous hornets, then giant lizards and now a deadly plant bacteria. Greenhouses in Michigan have been ordered to destroy any Fantasia Pink Flare geraniums imported from Guatemala, as the flowers are carrying a bacteria that could threaten food crops across the nation. The … Read more
Statins may reduce the amount of harmful microbiota in the guts of obese people, according to a new study. Scientists have found that a type of gut bacteria known as Bact2 is far more common in obese people. These microbes are seen in just 3.9 per cent of lean individuals, but are present in more than … Read more
A new air filter may be able to kill bacteria and viruses floating in the air in the blink of an eye. The device uses ‘non-thermal plasma’ (NTP), a gas which causes molecules to react with oxygen to create ozone. Ozone is known to be anti-bacterial and destroys pathogens by rupturing their cell walls. But … Read more