American scientists have discovered over 600 viruses that can infect bacteria on commonly used toothbrushes and shower heads, including many "new faces" that have not been discovered by humans. The research team stated that these viruses are not harmful to humans. By delving deeper into their 'personalities', perhaps new methods can be found to kill drug-resistant bacteria. The relevant paper was published in the latest issue of the journal "Frontiers in the Microbiome". The toothbrushes and shower heads used by people are covered with bacteria from the mouth and water sources, but scientists' understanding of these bacteria is very limited. To unveil their 'mysterious veil', scientists from Northwestern University in the United States sampled 92 showerheads and 36 toothbrushes used by American residents. Through DNA sequencing of swab samples, they discovered over 600 viruses known to infect bacteria - bacteriophages. Most of these bacteriophages come from toothbrushes and pose no threat to humans. Researchers suggest that these bacteriophages are likely to be present on any damp surface in the home, such as sinks, refrigerators, etc. Bacteriophages typically "hijack" bacteria, replicate themselves, and kill them when they "escape". Bacteriophages can also integrate into the genome of bacteria, altering their behavior. Genetic engineering of bacteriophages can be used to kill resistant bacteria when antibiotics fail. The latest research has discovered numerous new bacteriophages, which are expected to open up new avenues for addressing antibiotic resistance. (New Society)