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HOW MICROBES MADE 2024 UNFORGETTABLE

Microbes are everywhere - in the air, on our skin, and even in our cleaning products (hello, YOKUU!). But did you know that 2024 was another year full of surprises from the world of these tiny helpers? Here are three fascinating discoveries that will change how you think about bacteria.

Small Climate Heroes

Did you know that microbes can play a key role in the fight against climate change? Scientists this year advocated for large-scale deployment of these tiny heroes. Microbes can, for example, capture carbon from the air, break down methane, and even produce sustainable energy with algae. Yet, we are barely tapping into these possibilities, mainly due to a lack of collaboration between industry and science. You can read the scientists' call to action here: [1]

Belgian Viruses Against Resistant Bacteria

In Belgium, innovative solutions for antibiotic resistance are being developed. This year, a Belgian research team analyzed the results of 100 personalized treatments with bacteriophages—tiny viruses that specifically attack harmful bacteria—on hard-to-treat infections. The study showed that clinical improvement was observed in 77% of cases, and in 61%, the bacteria were completely eradicated. These insights highlight the potential of phage therapy as a hopeful solution for the future. You can read the full study here. [2]

Bacteriophages work as precision weapons, eliminating harmful bacteria without damaging the good ones. Most bacteria are harmless and even useful, but we still prefer to tackle some dangerous culprits. This not only demonstrates the potential of phage therapy but also puts Belgium on the map as a leader in this innovative healthcare solution.

Space Bacteria in Action

Even in space, microbes take center stage. Research from 2024 showed how the unique conditions of spaceflight—such as microgravity and radiation—alter the microbiome of astronauts. The composition of microbes on their skin, in their mouths, and in their guts shifts, and some adaptations remain even after returning to Earth. [3][4]

These findings not only help astronauts better prepare for long space missions, such as trips to Mars, but also provide insights for life on Earth. They show how microbes adapt to extreme conditions, offering inspiration for innovative solutions in health and technology.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Microbes continue to amaze us, from their role as climate heroes to their adaptability in space. 2024 was a productive year full of fascinating discoveries, and we look forward to what 2025 will bring to the field of microbiology. It remains impressive how these small creatures can bring about big changes!

References

1. Peixoto, R. et al. "Harnessing the Power of Microbes for Climate Solutions." npj Clim. Action 3, 102 (2024).

2. Pirnay, J.-P. et al. "Phage Therapy in Practice: A Belgian Retrospective Study of 100 Cases." Nat. Microbiol. 9, 1434–1453 (2024).

3. Tierney, B. T. "Microbiome Adaptation During Spaceflight and Its Implications for Astronaut Health." Nat. Microbiol. 9, 1661–1675 (2024).

4. Mortazavi, S. M. J. "How the adaptation of the human microbiome to harsh space environment can determine the chances of success for a space mission to Mars and beyond." Front. Microbiol. 14, 1237564 (2024).

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