immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Tag: Mikroben

  • Biofilms in the sink as breeding grounds for pathogens

    Biofilms in the sink as breeding grounds for pathogens

    Sinks are not only an everyday part of our households, they are also potential breeding grounds for dangerous microbes. According to Flinders University, so-called biofilms, slimy coatings of microorganisms that can cause serious infections, form in the drains and around the taps. These microbes not only originate from the water, but are often introduced by patients or staff washing their hands.

    Surprising findings from the study
    The study, published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, reveals that washbasins in private households have a greater diversity of bacteria than those in hospitals. Of particular concern is the higher presence of Legionella bacteria in household samples, which can cause the dangerous Legionnaires’ disease. These bacteria thrive in hot water systems and pose a significant health risk.

    Hygiene measures: Key to infection prevention
    The study underlines the importance of thorough cleaning and disinfection measures in washrooms in order to minimise the risk of infection. This is particularly crucial in hospitals, where patients with weakened immune systems are cared for. However, washroom hygiene should also not be neglected in private households, especially in home care.

    Harriet Whiley, Associate Professor at Flinders University, emphasises that regular and thorough cleaning is necessary to prevent the formation of biofilms and thus protect people’s health.

  • Microbes as power stations

    Microbes as power stations

    In an unprecedented approach, Professor Boghossian’s team has transferred the properties of exotic microbes that live under anaerobic conditions and produce electricity as a by-product of their metabolism to the widespread and well-researched bacterium E. coli. This innovation could open the door to innovative applications in various industries.

    From nature to the lab
    The natural models of research, anaerobic microbes, utilise unique metabolic pathways to donate electrons to metals and thereby generate electricity. This mechanism was successfully implemented in E. coli, which predestines the bacterium for a wide range of technological applications. The transfer was complex and required the insertion of special proteins from the electrically active microbes in E. coli, which brought the ability to produce electricity into the laboratory.

    Possible applications and practical benefits
    The modified E. coli could be used in fuel cells, in wastewater treatment or as a biosensor. Of particular interest is the potential application in wastewater treatment, where the bacteria would not only help to purify the water, but could also generate electricity as a by-product. These dual benefits represent an attractive option for a circular economy where waste products are put to valuable use.

    Innovative research and industry collaboration
    Supported by EPFL’s innovative environment and the opportunity to work across disciplines, Professor Boghossian’s team continues to explore the practical applications of “electric” bacteria. The development of a prototype for the food industry in collaboration with a newly founded start-up demonstrates the commercial potential of this technology. This commitment offers not only scientific but also sustainable industrial solutions that can contribute to reducing the carbon footprint.

    Outlook and global interest
    While the technology is still in the development phase, there is already growing interest from both academia and industry. The work of Professor Boghossian and her team is a shining example of how innovative basic research can have a transformative impact on our energy future.