The bathroom is a breeding ground for microorganisms, but not all of them are harmful. In fact, some bacteria found on items like toothbrushes are similar to those that naturally inhabit the human body. However, some bacteria can be bad. A recent analysis of the viruses that coexist with us may help combat them.
An “absolutely wild” number of viruses. A new study on microbial life published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiomes recently revealed a surprising abundance of microbes on two common bathroom items: the toothbrush and the showerhead. Some of the viruses discovered in these areas were previously unknown to science.
Rather than being alarming, these findings could have positive implications. Some of the identified viruses belong to the category of bacteriophages, or phages, which are viruses that infect and destroy bacteria. This makes them potential therapeutic allies in fighting bacterial threats.
“The number of viruses that we found is absolutely wild,” lead researcher Erica Hartmann said. “We found many viruses that we know very little about and many others that we have never seen before. It’s amazing how much untapped biodiversity is all around us. And you don’t even have to go far to find it; it’s right under our noses.”
Our homes, our microbiome. Our bodies are inhabited by trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, collectively known as our microbiota. Remarkably, part of this microbiome extends into the environment around us.
Unsurprisingly, the bacteria residing in our mouths can also be found on our toothbrushes. However, the recent study of the microorganisms in our immediate surroundings has astonished its researchers with their vast diversity and abundance.
Phages. Many of the viruses found were phages. Bathrooms, being hotspots for bacterial growth, also serve as ideal environments for these viruses, which utilize bacteria to reproduce.
The most promising aspect of the study is precisely related to phages. These viruses play a crucial role in the ongoing battle against bacterial infections. In an age plagued by superbugs–bacteria that are increasingly resistant to antibiotics–finding new methods to combat infections is essential.
It’s possible that some of the newly discovered viruses could provide valuable insights into how scientists can prevent the proliferation of these resistant superbugs.
The microbiome in our bathrooms. The research team studied 96 showerheads and 34 toothbrushes. Researchers analyzed the viruses present and found that the viromes (the combination of different types of viruses) varied between the two locations. Notably, the viromes on the toothbrushes were more diverse than those found on the showerheads.
This variation is attributed to the different types of bacteria that inhabit each environment. The bacteria on toothbrushes are typically those found in our mouths, while showerheads commonly host bacteria associated with water systems.
Linked studies. The recent study was part of a larger project aimed at understanding which bacteria thrive on our toothbrushes. Fortunately, the analysis revealed that the bacteria present on toothbrushes are generally those we find in our mouths rather than harmful bacteria that may be found in bathrooms.
However, when it comes to microorganisms in bathrooms, quantity is crucial. As such, maintaining good hygiene is essential to prevent these harmless bacterial colonies from becoming a problem. As such, it’s important to remember to change out your toothbrushes.
Image | Alex Padurariu
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