Scientists have discovered a new protein used for communication in bacteria when attacking another organism. This protein, called Ax21, causes drastic changes in bacteria, transforming them from a docile state to a fiercely invasive one. It also causes nearby bacteria to congregate into biofilms, increasing their antibiotic resistance. An interesting side fact, certain rice plants have an immune receptor called XA21 that reacts to a detected presence of Ax21, initiating a powerful defense response from the plant. This knowledge could help with the production of more resistant rice crops.
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