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Plague Bacterium Evolves: Less Lethal, More Resilient

5/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The plague bacterium, Yersinia pestis, has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving to become less lethal over centuries. A groundbreaking study in Science reveals that a reduction in the gene pla has diminished its virulence, allowing it to linger longer in hosts and thrive through three devastating pandemics. This adaptation showcases the bacterium's resilience and survival strategy.

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Story summary

The plague bacterium, Yersinia pestis, has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving to become less lethal over centuries. A groundbreaking study in Science reveals that a reduction in the gene pla has diminished its virulence, allowing it to linger longer in hosts and thrive through three devastating pandemics. This adaptation showcases the bacterium's resilience and survival strategy.