Phys.org Biology news

Hidden small RNA in cholera bacterium helps determine whether it can infect humans

Scientists from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have uncovered what gives Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium that causes cholera, the ability to colonize the human gut. The researchers found that a small RNA embedded within another gene controls where cholera thrives, a discovery that could improve prediction and prevention strategies. The study is published in the journal Nature Communications.