@article {pmid41044998,
year = {2025},
author = {Modin, O and Zheng, D and Schnürer, A and Lundwall, T and Bolanos, SE and Olsson, J},
title = {From Low-Loaded Mesophilic to High-Loaded Thermophilic Anaerobic Digestion: Changes in Reactor Performance and Microbiome.},
journal = {Microbial biotechnology},
volume = {18},
number = {10},
pages = {e70238},
doi = {10.1111/1751-7915.70238},
pmid = {41044998},
issn = {1751-7915},
support = {//Käppalaförbundet/ ; //The Swedish Research Council (VR)/ ; },
mesh = {*Bioreactors/microbiology ; Anaerobiosis ; *Sewage/microbiology ; Methane/metabolism ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/metabolism/isolation & purification ; Temperature ; *Microbiota ; *Archaea/classification/genetics/metabolism ; Metagenomics ; },
abstract = {This study investigated temporal dynamics in reactor performance and microbial community structure during anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge when the temperature was changed from 37°C to 55°C, followed by an increase in organic loading rate (OLR). Performance instability was observed immediately following the temperature increase and in the end of the study when the OLR was 11.1 ± 0.3 kgVS m[-3]d[-1]. The specific methane production peaked at 0.31 ± 0.06 Nm[3] kg[-1] volatile solids (VS) during thermophilic operation and when the OLR was 3.5 ± 0.9 kgVS m[-3]d[-1]. Using metagenomic sequencing, 304 species-representative genome bins (SGB) were assembled. Network analysis revealed that 186 SGB were associated with thermophilic conditions and several new species putatively involved in key reactor functions were identified. When reactor function initially stabilised, two hydrogenotrophic and one aceticlastic methanogen (Methanothermobacter spp. and Methanosarcina thermophila), the hydrolytic Coprothermobacter proteolyticus, and putative syntrophic propionate oxidisers (e.g., Pelotomaculaceae) had high relative abundance. During the peak in specific gas production, the community was dominated by one hydrogenotrophic Methanothermobacter species coexisting with syntrophic acetate oxidising bacteria (Thermacetogenium phaeum and other species). Finally, when the reaction function deteriorated due to high OLR, new hydrolytic taxa emerged and the same aceticlastic methanogen as seen during the initial acclimatisation phase returned.},
}

*Bioreactors/microbiology
Anaerobiosis
*Sewage/microbiology
Methane/metabolism
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/metabolism/isolation & purification
Temperature
*Microbiota
*Archaea/classification/genetics/metabolism
Metagenomics

@article {pmid41044404,
year = {2025},
author = {Rodríguez-Gijón, A and Pacheco-Valenciana, A and Milke, F and Dharamshi, JE and Hampel, JJ and Damashek, J and Wienhausen, G and Rodriguez-R, LM and Garcia, SL},
title = {Widely-distributed freshwater microorganisms with streamlined genomes co-occur in cohorts with high abundance.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34482},
pmid = {41044404},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {Genome size is known to reflect the eco-evolutionary history of prokaryotic species, including their lifestyle, environmental preferences, and habitat breadth. However, it remains uncertain how strongly genome size is linked to prokaryotic prevalence, relative abundance and co-occurrence. To address this gap, we present a systematic and global-scale evaluation of the relationship between genome size, relative abundance and prevalence in freshwater ecosystems. Our study includes 80,561 medium-to-high quality genomes, from which we identified 9,028 species (ANI > 95%) present in a manually curated dataset of 636 freshwater metagenomes. Our results show that prokaryotes with reduced genomes exhibited higher prevalence and relative abundance, suggesting that genome streamlining may promote cosmopolitanism. Furthermore, network analyses revealed that the most prevalent prokaryotes have streamlined genomes that are found in co-occurrent cohorts potentially sustained by metabolic dependencies. Overall, species in these groups possess a diminished capacity for synthesizing different essential metabolites such as vitamins, amino acids and nucleotides, potentially fostering metabolic complementarities within the community. Moreover, we found the presence of the essential biosynthetic functions to be usage-dependent: nucleotide and amino acids biosynthesis are the most complete, whereas vitamin biosynthesis is most incomplete. Our results underscore genome streamlining as a central eco-evolutionary strategy that both shapes and is shaped by community dynamics, ultimately fostering interdependences among prokaryotes.},
}

@article {pmid41044010,
year = {2025},
author = {Bleidorn, C and Sandberg, F and Martin, S and Vogler, AP and Podsiadlowski, L},
title = {The untapped potential of short-read sequencing in biodiversity research.},
journal = {Trends in genetics : TIG},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tig.2025.09.001},
pmid = {41044010},
issn = {0168-9525},
abstract = {The power of short-read DNA sequencing in biodiversity research and evolutionary genomics is rapidly growing due to advances in technology and bioinformatics. Short-read sequencing offers powerful solutions for taxonomic identification, biomass estimation, and phylogenetic reconstruction. Moreover, short-read data enable robust estimation of genome size and repeat content, offering valuable insights into genome evolution. Though growing in popularity, long-read genome assemblies are often not feasible with material from museum collections or raw biodiversity samples. With the growing demand for DNA-based approaches in biodiversity research, short-read genomics provides an easily generated universal data source spanning all levels from individual genomes to ecosystems, and including all species on Earth, to achieve the objectives of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) for the preservation of biodiversity.},
}

@article {pmid41042593,
year = {2025},
author = {Varliero, G and Bauder, A and Stierli, B and Qi, W and Frey, B},
title = {Host-virome associations in the weathering crust of a rapidly retreating temperate Alpine glacier.},
journal = {Microbial genomics},
volume = {11},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/mgen.0.001524},
pmid = {41042593},
issn = {2057-5858},
mesh = {*Ice Cover/microbiology/virology ; *Bacteria/genetics/virology/classification ; *Microbiota/genetics ; *Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Switzerland ; Metagenomics/methods ; Ecosystem ; Host Specificity ; },
abstract = {Glaciers are retreating rapidly, altering ecosystem dynamics and increasing meltwater outflow into populated areas. Understanding microbial-virome interactions is crucial for predicting the consequences of this release. We sampled ice from four shallow pits in the weathering crust of the Rhonegletscher, Swiss Alps, and found a microbiome dominated by bacteria and microeukaryotes, alongside a metavirome infecting both groups. Viruses exhibited variable host specificity, with some targeting particular taxa and others showing a broader infectivity range. Variable genomic regions, including metagenomic and metaviromic islands, were enriched in genes related to replication, recombination, repair and transposable elements. Detected auxiliary metabolic genes were primarily involved in host coenzyme biosynthesis, uptake or utilization and in altering bacterial methylation patterns to evade detection. These findings underscore the major role of viruses in regulating microbial dynamics in glaciers and their potential downstream environmental impacts.},
}

*Ice Cover/microbiology/virology
*Bacteria/genetics/virology/classification
*Microbiota/genetics
*Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Switzerland
Metagenomics/methods
Ecosystem
Host Specificity

@article {pmid41042396,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, J and Zhou, J and Zhao, Q and Yang, C and Bai, Y},
title = {Metagenomic analysis of microbial community dynamics in konjac rhizosphere during soft rot disease progression.},
journal = {Applied microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {109},
number = {1},
pages = {212},
pmid = {41042396},
issn = {1432-0614},
support = {32072558//the Nature Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024-620-000-001-007//Hubei Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Center Innovation Team Project/ ; },
mesh = {*Rhizosphere ; *Plant Diseases/microbiology ; *Soil Microbiology ; Metagenomics ; *Amorphophallus/microbiology ; *Microbiota/genetics ; Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Fungi/genetics/classification ; },
abstract = {Amorphophallus konjac, the sole glucomannan-rich species in the Araceae family, faces significant yield and quality losses due to soft rot disease. Understanding the relationship between soil microbial communities and soft rot incidence is critical for sustainable konjac production. Metagenomic profiling was employed to systematically characterize the spatiotemporal dynamics of rhizosphere microbiomes during disease progression. Microbial alpha diversity (Chao1 index) exhibited a significant peak in the rhizosphere of diseased plants at the mature stage, contrasting with stable diversity patterns in healthy and latently infected groups, indicating dysbiosis-associated richness inflation during disease progression. Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) revealed significant divergence in rhizosphere microbial structures between diseased and healthy/latently infected groups, with higher compositional variability observed in diseased samples. At the phylum level, Chloroflexi and Acidobacteria abundances in healthy mature plants exceeded those in diseased plants by 11.54% and 4.6%, respectively, while pathogenic Rhizopus arrhizus and Rhizopus microsporus were significantly enriched in diseased mature plants. Correlation analyses demonstrated predominantly negative associations between bacterial species and soil factors, contrasting with positive fungal correlations. KEGG pathway annotation identified carbohydrate metabolism and amino acid synthesis as core microbial functions in the konjac rhizosphere. Collectively, Chloroflexi and Acidobacteria were validated as putative biocontrol agents, while Rhizopus spp. emerged as key drivers of soft rot development. These findings provide mechanistic insights for designing microbiome-based biocontrol strategies to mitigate konjac soft rot, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional agrochemical reliance. KEY POINTS: • Diseased konjac microbial richness peaks; healthy plants enrich Chloroflexi/Acidobacteria. • Rhizopus pathogens drive soft rot; bacteria and fungi show opposing soil factor links. • Lays groundwork for microbiome approaches to cut agrochemicals in konjac rot control.},
}

*Rhizosphere
*Plant Diseases/microbiology
*Soil Microbiology
Metagenomics
*Amorphophallus/microbiology
*Microbiota/genetics
Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Fungi/genetics/classification

@article {pmid41039256,
year = {2025},
author = {Jin, W and Zhang, Y and Su, X and Xie, Z and Wang, R and Wang, Y and Qiu, Y and He, Y},
title = {Effects of different land use on functional genes of soil microbial carbon and phosphorus cycles in the desert steppe zone of the Loess Plateau.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {607},
pmid = {41039256},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {32072394//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 23ZSCQ030//Gansu Province Intellectual Property Project/ ; 2022-01//Chinese Academy of Sciences regional development projects for young scholars/ ; },
mesh = {*Soil Microbiology ; *Phosphorus/metabolism ; China ; Soil/chemistry ; Grassland ; *Carbon/metabolism ; Desert Climate ; *Carbon Cycle/genetics ; *Bacteria/genetics/metabolism/classification/isolation & purification ; Microbiota ; Metagenomics ; },
abstract = {Desert grassland ecosystems on China's Loess Plateau are characterized by diverse land use types and varying human disturbances. We aimed to evaluate how land use influences soil microbial communities and functional genes related to carbon (C) and phosphorus (P) cycling. To do this, we selected five representative land use types: natural grassland, 20-year abandoned farmland, 12-year alfalfa grassland, 5-year Lanzhou lily farmland, and 17-year Platycladus orientalis forest. High-throughput metagenomic sequencing and soil physicochemical analyses were conducted. Proteobacteria dominated the nutrient-rich lily soil, while Actinobacteria were more abundant in the other soils. Available phosphorus (AP) had the strongest influence on microbial community structure and gene composition (p < 0.01). The relative abundance of ppdK, rpiB, glpX, and epi (C fixation genes), and purS (purine metabolism) was significantly higher in forest soil than in abandoned farmland (p < 0.05). Similarly, forest soil showed elevated levels of mttB and acs (methanogenesis), sdhA (TCA cycle), pstS (P transport), and pps (pyruvate metabolism) compared to alfalfa soil. Lily soil exhibited significantly higher abundance of acr genes (involved in the hydroxypropionate-hydroxybutylate cycle) and phnE (an ATP-binding cassette transporter) than natural grassland and alfalfa soils (p < 0.05). Microbial networks involved in C and P cycling were simpler but more functionally specialized in forest soil. Positive microbial interactions related to C and P cycling were strongest in lily soil. These findings provide important insights into soil microbial functional adaptation and offer a foundation for sustainable land use management on the Loess Plateau.},
}

*Soil Microbiology
*Phosphorus/metabolism
China
Soil/chemistry
Grassland
*Carbon/metabolism
Desert Climate
*Carbon Cycle/genetics
*Bacteria/genetics/metabolism/classification/isolation & purification
Microbiota
Metagenomics

@article {pmid41039213,
year = {2025},
author = {IJdema, F and Arias-Giraldo, LM and Vervoort, E and Struyf, T and Van den Ende, W and Raaijmakers, JM and Lievens, B and De Smet, J},
title = {Metagenome-based identification of functional traits of the black soldier fly gut microbiome associated with larval performance.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {612},
pmid = {41039213},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {S008519N//ENTOBIOTA/ ; IMP20028//KU Leuven Impuls grant/ ; C3/22/041//KU Leuven CHITINERY grant/ ; G0C4622N//Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Larva/microbiology/growth & development ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics ; *Bacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification/metabolism ; *Metagenome ; *Diptera/microbiology/growth & development ; Animal Feed/analysis ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Metagenomics ; Diet ; Phylogeny ; Chickens ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The relationship between microbiomes and their hosts has been the subject of intensive study in recent years. For black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) (Hermetia illucens L., Diptera: Stratiomyidae), correlations between shifts in its microbial gut community composition and its health and performance suggest that the BSFL gut microbiome encodes important functions that complement the insect's own immune system and metabolism. To date, most BSFL microbiome studies have been based on 16S rRNA sequencing data. Because this approach derives a lot of information from very short sequencing reads, it was hypothesized that more insight into bacterial functionality could be generated using more extensive sequencing technologies. Here, whole genome shotgun (WGS) metagenomic sequencing was employed to investigate which microbiome-associated taxa and functions were associated with increased performance of larvae reared on a chicken feed (CF) or artificial supermarket food waste (SFW) based diet.

RESULTS: Taxonomic and functional profiling of the BSFL gut microbiome revealed a significant shift in response to diet, where bacterial genes encoding specific metabolic functions, such as the metabolism of sorbitol, were significantly enriched in the microbiome of larvae reared on SFW-diet. This indicates that the nutritional composition of the substrate alters the gut bacterial composition by providing competitive benefits or new niches for specific bacteria that can utilise these compounds. Moreover, specific microbial functions, such as cobalamin synthesis, appear to be correlated with larval performance. Aside from metabolic functions, biosynthetic gene cluster analysis revealed potential antimicrobial competition and protective functions among bacterial species. Improved taxonomic resolution provided by WGS led to the identification of several metagenome assembled genomes (MAGs), including a potentially novel BSFL-associated Scrofimicrobium species. Furthermore, there were differences in larval performance between rearing diets, and larval growth was correlated with high abundance of several MAGs.

CONCLUSIONS: Variation in the nutritional and bacterial load of a diet can result in functional shifts in the gut microbiome of the larvae. Analysis of the BSFL metagenome identified several bacteria that are positively correlated with larval performance, which could potentially provide beneficial metabolic functions for the host that should be further explored.},
}

Animals
Larva/microbiology/growth & development
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics
*Bacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification/metabolism
*Metagenome
*Diptera/microbiology/growth & development
Animal Feed/analysis
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Metagenomics
Diet
Phylogeny
Chickens

@article {pmid41039197,
year = {2025},
author = {Mpai, T and Diale, MO and Shargie, N and Gerrano, AS and Mtsweni, PN and Bopape, FL and Bairu, M and Hassen, AI},
title = {Functional and taxonomic profiles of soil microbial communities of tropical legume soils from smallholder farmers' fields in Tzaneen, Limpopo province, South Africa.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {601},
pmid = {41039197},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {PHP012403000067//Department of Agriculture (DoA), South Africa/ ; PHP012403000067//Department of Agriculture (DoA), South Africa/ ; PHP012403000067//Department of Agriculture (DoA), South Africa/ ; PHP012403000067//Department of Agriculture (DoA), South Africa/ ; PHP012403000067//Department of Agriculture (DoA), South Africa/ ; PHP012403000067//Department of Agriculture (DoA), South Africa/ ; PHP012403000067//Department of Agriculture (DoA), South Africa/ ; PHP012403000067//Department of Agriculture (DoA), South Africa/ ; },
mesh = {*Soil Microbiology ; South Africa ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Soil/chemistry ; Metagenomics ; *Microbiota ; *Fabaceae/growth & development/microbiology ; Agriculture ; Farmers ; Biodiversity ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Tropical Climate ; Vigna/growth & development ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Soil microorganisms play a vital role as the major indicators of soil health in sustainable agricultural farming systems. However, intensive cultivation and unrecommended farmers' soil management practices negatively affect the soil microbial communities, and hence that of the soil health. Here, we investigated the functional and taxonomic diversity of soil microorganisms on six selected smallholder farmers that grow Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) and dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) in Limpopo Province, South Africa using metagenomics and phenotypic profiles studies. Five soil samples, randomly collected per farm and pooled into a single representative sample were used. Metagenomics raw read quality control, genome assembly and annotation were performed on the KBase platform while the community level physiological profile analysis was done using Biolog Ecoplates™.

RESULTS: The results indicated that the soil microbial communities in Chosen Generation farm had higher rates of carbon source utilization. Likewise, it showed greater microbial abundance of varying taxonomy in which Actinobacteria, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were the predominant phyla while Bacillus, Streptomyces, Microvirga and Bradyrhizobium were the most represented genera.

CONCLUSIONS: This study reports that soils from the six farms studied are enriched with genetically and physiologically diverse microorganisms that are responsible for crop growth. While soil physico-chemical properties can be associated with microbial diversity in this study, further studies on farming practices such as fertilizer and irrigation are recommended to further explore their possible effects on soil microbes.},
}

*Soil Microbiology
South Africa
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Soil/chemistry
Metagenomics
*Microbiota
*Fabaceae/growth & development/microbiology
Agriculture
Farmers
Biodiversity
Phylogeny
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Tropical Climate
Vigna/growth & development

@article {pmid41037127,
year = {2025},
author = {Arunrat, N and Mhuantong, W and Sereenonchai, S},
title = {Land-use legacies shape soil microbial communities and nutrient cycling functions in rotational shifting cultivation fields of Northern Thailand.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {88},
number = {1},
pages = {102},
pmid = {41037127},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {MU-SRF-RS-21 B/67//Mahidol University (Strategic Research Fund: 2024)/ ; },
mesh = {*Soil Microbiology ; Thailand ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/metabolism/isolation & purification ; Soil/chemistry ; *Microbiota ; Nitrogen/metabolism ; Nitrification ; *Agriculture/methods ; Nitrogen Fixation ; Nitrogen Cycle ; },
abstract = {How land-use history-particularly in contrasting systems such as rotational shifting cultivation (RSC) and continuously fallow (CF) fields-influences soil microbial communities and their biogeochemical functions remains insufficiently understood. In this study, shotgun metagenomic sequencing was used to compare the taxonomic composition and functional gene profiles of soils under RSC and CF systems in Northern Thailand. The results revealed distinct microbial assemblages and metabolic potentials shaped by land-use legacy. RSC soils were characterized by a higher abundance of nitrifiers and nitrogen-fixing taxa, including Nitrosocosmicus and Streptomyces, along with enriched genes involved in nitrification (e.g., amoC_B, nxrB) and nitrogen fixation (nifD, nifK), reflecting an enhanced potential for nitrogen acquisition and retention. In contrast, CF soils showed enrichment in Bradyrhizobium, Halobaculum, and Russula, and exhibited higher expression of denitrification-related genes (norB, narJ), suggesting increased nitrogen loss via gaseous emissions. Functional genes related to phosphate metabolism (phoX, glpQ) and nutrient signal transduction were more abundant in RSC soils, indicating active nutrient cycling in response to recent disturbance. Conversely, CF soils demonstrated broader metabolic capabilities, including genes for sulfur oxidation and redox regulation, suggesting microbial adaptation to more stable but nutrient-limited conditions. These findings demonstrate that land-use legacies strongly influence microbial composition and function, with important implications for nutrient cycling and soil fertility restoration in shifting cultivation landscapes.},
}

*Soil Microbiology
Thailand
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/metabolism/isolation & purification
Soil/chemistry
*Microbiota
Nitrogen/metabolism
Nitrification
*Agriculture/methods
Nitrogen Fixation
Nitrogen Cycle

@article {pmid41036626,
year = {2025},
author = {Xia, Y and Liang, L and Wang, X and Chen, Z and Liu, J and Yang, Y and Xie, H and Ding, Z and Huang, X and Long, S and Wang, Z and Xu, X and Ding, C and Chen, Q and Feng, Q},
title = {MetaflowX: a scalable and resource-efficient workflow for multi-strategy metagenomic analysis.},
journal = {Nucleic acids research},
volume = {53},
number = {18},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/nar/gkaf954},
pmid = {41036626},
issn = {1362-4962},
support = {2022YFA1304100//National Key R&D Program of China/ ; 82 270 980//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82071122//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82 202 539//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023ZD0501406//National Science and Technology Major Program/ ; 2019//National Young Scientist Support Foundation/ ; ZR2021JQ29//Excellent Young Scientist Foundation of Shandong Province/ ; 2019//Taishan Young Scientist Project of Shandong Province/ ; 2021GXRC021//Periodontitis innovation team of Jinan City/ ; 2021SFGC0502//Major Innovation Projects in Shandong Province/ ; 2020KJK001//Oral Microbiome Innovation Team of Shandong Province/ ; 2021ZDSYS18//Shandong Province Key Research and Development Program/ ; #202412A001//horizontal cooperation project with Shenzhen 01 Life Institute/ ; #202112E401//horizontal cooperation project with Shenzhen 01 Life Institute/ ; },
mesh = {*Metagenomics/methods ; Workflow ; *Software ; *Metagenome/genetics ; *Microbiota/genetics ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Microbiomes play crucial roles in diverse ecosystems, spanning environmental, agricultural, and human health domains. However, in-depth metagenomic data analysis presents significant technical and resource challenges, particularly at scale. Existing computational pipelines are typically limited to either reference-based or reference-free approaches and exhibit inefficiencies in process large datasets. Here, we introduce MetaflowX (https://github.com/01life/MetaflowX), an open-resource workflow integrating both analytical paradigms for enhanced metagenomic investigations. This modular framework encompasses short-read quality control, rapid microbial profiling, hybrid contig assembly and binning, high-quality metagenome-assembled genome (MAG) identification, as well as bin refinement and reassembly. Benchmarking tests showed that MetaflowX completed full metagenomic analyses up to 14-fold faster and with 38% less disk usage than existing workflows. It also recovered the highest number of high-quality and taxonomically diverse MAGs. A dedicated reassembly module further improved MAG quality, increasing completeness by 5.6% and reducing contamination by 53% on average. Functional annotation modules enable detection of key features, including virulence and antibiotic resistance genes. Designed for extensibility, MetaflowX provides an efficient solution addressing current and emerging demands in large-scale metagenomic research.},
}

*Metagenomics/methods
Workflow
*Software
*Metagenome/genetics
*Microbiota/genetics
Humans

@article {pmid41035224,
year = {2025},
author = {Farini, A and Strati, F and Molinaro, M and Mostosi, D and Saccone, S and Tripodi, L and Troisi, J and Landolfi, A and Amoroso, C and Cassani, B and Blanco-Míguez, A and Leonetti, E and Bazzani, D and Bolzan, M and Fortunato, F and Caprioli, F and Facciotti, F and Torrente, Y},
title = {Immunoproteasome Inhibition Positively Impacts the Gut-Muscle Axis in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.},
journal = {Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle},
volume = {16},
number = {5},
pages = {e70054},
doi = {10.1002/jcsm.70054},
pmid = {41035224},
issn = {2190-6009},
support = {M6/C2_CALL 2022//PNRR/ ; FRRB-2022//Unmet Medical Needs, Fondazione Regionale per la Ricerca Biomedica/ ; GJC21084//Cariplo Telethon Alliance GJC2021-2022/ ; //NextGenerationEU/ ; //MUR/ ; PR-0394//Gruppo familiari beta-sarcoglicanopatie/ ; PNC-E3-2022-23683266-CUP: C43C22001630001//Hub Life Science-Diagnostica Avanzata/ ; //Associazione Centro Dino Ferrari/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne/drug therapy/metabolism/pathology ; Mice ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; *Proteasome Inhibitors/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Muscle, Skeletal/drug effects/metabolism ; Disease Models, Animal ; Mice, Inbred mdx ; Male ; *Proteasome Endopeptidase Complex/metabolism ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) features immune-muscle crosstalk, where muscle fibre degeneration enhances pro-inflammatory macrophage infiltration, worsening inflammation and impairing regeneration.

METHODS: We investigated the impact of immunoproteasome (IP) inhibition on the gut-muscle axis in mdx mice, a well-established model of DMD. We employed microbiota perturbation models, including broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment (ABX) and faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from IP-inhibited mdx mice. IP inhibition effects were assessed by analysing gut microbiota composition, intestinal inflammation, muscle integrity and associated metabolic and inflammatory pathways.

RESULTS: IP inhibitor ONX-0914 significantly impacted the intestinal inflammatory microenvironment and gut microbiota of mdx mice. ONX-0914 treatment increased gastrointestinal transit (increased wet/dry faecal weights, p = 0.0486 and p = 0.0112, respectively) and partially restored intestinal barrier integrity (reduced FITC-dextran leakage, p = 0.0449). JAM-A was significantly upregulated (p < 0.0001). Colonic CD206+ M2 macrophages increased, while CD68 + M1 cells partially decreased. ONX-0914 downregulated IP isoforms in macrophages (PSMB8: p = 0.0022; PSMB9: p = 0.0186) as well as FOXO-1 (p = 0.0380) and TNF-α (p = 0.0487). Antibiotic-induced microbiota depletion abrogated these effects. Metagenomic analysis revealed significant differences in microbiota composition between C57Bl controls and mdx mice (PERMANOVA p < 0.001), with ONX-0914 inducing enrichment of stachyose degradation pathways. Metabolomic analysis showed enrichment of bacterial metabolites, fatty acid and sugar metabolism pathways, with increased glutathione, galactose, glycerol, glyceraldehyde and TCA cycle intermediates. ONX-0914 improved mitochondrial activity in skeletal muscle, as increased expression of ETC complexes (mdx vs. mdx+ONX: Complex II, p = 0.0338; Complex IV, p = 0.0023) and TCA enzymes (mdx vs. FTMmdx+ONX: IDH p = 0.0258; FH p = 0.0366). This led to a shift towards oxidative muscle fibres and improved muscle morphology (increased fibre size, p < 0.0001 mdx vs. mdx+ONX and mdx vs. FTMmdx+ONX). Muscle performance was enhanced with reduced CPK levels (p = 0.0015 mdx vs. mdx+ONX) and fibrosis (decreased TGFβ: mdx vs. mdx+ONX, p = 0.0248; mdx vs. FTMmdx+ONX, p = 0.0279). ONX-0914 reduced CD68+ (mdx vs. mdx+ONX, p = 0.0024; mdx vs. FTMmdx+ONX, p < 0.0001) and increased CD206+ (mdx vs. FTMmdx+ONX: p = 0.0083) macrophages in muscle, downregulated inflammatory genes (mdx vs. mdx+ONX: ccl2 p = 0.0327, vcam-1p = 0.0378) and reduced pro-inflammatory proteins (MCP1, mdx vs. mdx+ONX, p = 0.0442). Inflammatory cytokines and endothelial vessel density in ONX-0914 treated mdx were restored to wild type mice. These data demonstrate that ONX-0914 enhances muscle function through microbiota-dependent mechanisms.

CONCLUSIONS: Our study advances the understanding of the role of dysbiosis in DMD disease and identifies IP inhibition as a potential therapeutic strategy to modulate the dystrophic gut-muscle axis, offering new perspectives for microbiota-targeted therapies.},
}

Animals
*Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne/drug therapy/metabolism/pathology
Mice
Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
*Proteasome Inhibitors/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Muscle, Skeletal/drug effects/metabolism
Disease Models, Animal
Mice, Inbred mdx
Male
*Proteasome Endopeptidase Complex/metabolism
Mice, Inbred C57BL

@article {pmid41034963,
year = {2025},
author = {Lewis, ZJ and Scott, A and Madden, C and Vik, D and Zayed, AA and Smith, GJ and Justice, SS and Rudinsky, A and Hokamp, J and Hale, VL},
title = {Evaluating urine volume and host depletion methods to enable genome-resolved metagenomics of the urobiome.},
journal = {Microbiome},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {199},
pmid = {41034963},
issn = {2049-2618},
support = {Canine Intramural Grant//College of Veterinary Medicine, Ohio State University/ ; DBI 20222070//National Science Foundation/ ; 1K08ES034821-01A1/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {*Metagenomics/methods ; Animals ; Dogs ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Bacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Humans ; Metagenome ; *Microbiota/genetics ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; *Urinary Tract/microbiology ; *Urine/microbiology ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The gut microbiome has emerged as a clear player in health and disease, in part by mediating host response to environment and lifestyle. The urobiome (microbiota of the urinary tract) likely functions similarly. However, efforts to characterize the urobiome and assess its functional potential have been limited due to technical challenges including low microbial biomass and high host cell shedding in urine. Here, to begin addressing these challenges, we evaluate urine sample volume (100 ml-5 mL) and host DNA depletion methods and their effects on urobiome profiles in healthy dogs, which are a robust large animal model for the human urobiome. We collected urine from seven dogs and fractionated samples into aliquots. One set of samples was spiked with host (canine) cells to model a biologically relevant host cell burden in urine. Samples then underwent DNA extraction followed by 16S rRNA gene and shotgun metagenomic sequencing. We then assembled metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) and compared microbial composition and diversity across groups. We tested six methods of DNA extraction: QIAamp BiOstic Bacteremia (no host depletion), QIAamp DNA Microbiome, Molzym MolYsis, NEBNext Microbiome DNA Enrichment, Zymo HostZERO, and propidium monoazide.

RESULTS: In relation to urine sample volume, ≥ 3.0 mL resulted in the most consistent urobiome profiling. In relation to host depletion, individual (dog) but not extraction method drove overall differences in microbial composition. DNA Microbiome yielded the greatest microbial diversity in 16S rRNA sequencing data and shotgun metagenomic sequencing data and maximized MAG recovery while effectively depleting host DNA in host-spiked urine samples. As proof-of-principle, we then mined MAGs for select metabolic functions including central metabolism pathways and environmental chemical degradation.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings provide guidelines for studying the urobiome in relation to sample volume and host depletion and lay the foundation for future evaluation of urobiome function in relation to health and disease. Video Abstract.},
}

*Metagenomics/methods
Animals
Dogs
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Bacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Humans
Metagenome
*Microbiota/genetics
DNA, Bacterial/genetics
*Urinary Tract/microbiology
*Urine/microbiology
Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics

@article {pmid41006832,
year = {2025},
author = {Hug, LA and Hatzenpichler, R and Moraru, C and Soares, AR and Meyer, F and Heyder, A and , and Probst, AJ},
title = {A roadmap for equitable reuse of public microbiome data.},
journal = {Nature microbiology},
volume = {10},
number = {10},
pages = {2384-2395},
pmid = {41006832},
issn = {2058-5276},
support = {CTC 1439/2//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; MO3498/2-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; OCE-2049445//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; },
mesh = {*Microbiota/genetics ; *Information Dissemination/methods ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Science benefits from rapid open data sharing, but current guidelines for data reuse were established two decades ago, when databases were several million times smaller than they are today. These guidelines are largely unfamiliar to the scientific community, and, owing to the rapid increase in biological data generated in the past decade, they are also outdated. As a result, there is a lack of community standards suited to the current landscape and inconsistent implementation of data sharing policies across institutions. Here we discuss current sequence data sharing policies and their benefits and drawbacks, and present a roadmap to establish guidelines for equitable sequence data reuse, developed in consultation with a data consortium of 167 microbiome scientists. We propose the use of a Data Reuse Information (DRI) tag for public sequence data, which will be associated with at least one Open Researcher and Contributor ID (ORCID) account. The machine-readable DRI tag indicates that the data creators prefer to be contacted before data reuse, and simultaneously provides data consumers with a mechanism to get in touch with the data creators. The DRI aims to facilitate and foster collaborations, and serve as a guideline that can be expanded to other data types.},
}

*Microbiota/genetics
*Information Dissemination/methods
Humans

@article {pmid40987851,
year = {2025},
author = {Du, LF and Shi, W and Cui, XM and Fan, H and Jiang, JF and Bian, C and Ye, RZ and Wang, Q and Zhang, MZ and Yuan, TT and Xia, LY and Ruan, XD and Chang, QC and Du, CH and Que, TC and Wang, X and Han, XH and Yang, TC and Jiang, BG and Chen, JY and Wang, XR and Tan, LF and Liu, YW and Deng, LL and Liu, Y and Zhu, Y and Pan, YS and Wang, N and Lin, ZT and Li, LF and Li, C and Shen, SJ and Liu, YT and Tian, D and Han, XY and Wang, J and Wang, YF and Gao, WY and Li, YY and Xiong, T and Wang, TH and Shi, XY and Zhu, DY and Zhu, JG and Wang, CC and Shi, WQ and Zhan, L and Liu, ZH and Feng, D and Zhao, L and Sun, Y and , and Wang, J and Jia, N and Zhao, F and Cao, WC},
title = {Genome-resolved metagenomics reveals microbiome diversity across 48 tick species.},
journal = {Nature microbiology},
volume = {10},
number = {10},
pages = {2631-2645},
pmid = {40987851},
issn = {2058-5276},
support = {2019YFC1200501//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 32025009//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Ticks/microbiology/classification/genetics ; *Microbiota/genetics ; *Bacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; *Genome, Bacterial ; Phylogeny ; China ; Symbiosis ; Tick-Borne Diseases ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; Host Microbial Interactions/genetics ; Host-Pathogen Interactions/genetics ; },
abstract = {Ticks are arthropod vectors capable of transmitting a wide spectrum of pathogens affecting humans and animals. However, we have relatively limited information of their genomic characteristics and the diversity of associated microbiomes. Here we used long- and short-read sequencing on 1,479 samples from 48 tick species across eight genera from China to determine their genome and associated pathogens and microbiome. Through de novo assembly, we reconstructed 7,783 bacterial genomes representing 1,373 bacterial species, of which, 712 genomes represented 32 potentially pathogenic species. Computational analysis found nutritional endosymbionts to be prevalent and highly specific to tick genera. The microbiome genome-wide association study revealed host genetic variants linked to pathogen diversity, abundance and key biological pathways essential to tick biology, including blood-feeding and pathogen invasion. These findings provide a resource for studying the host-microbe interactions within ticks, paving the way for strategies to control tick populations and tick-borne diseases.},
}

Animals
*Metagenomics/methods
*Ticks/microbiology/classification/genetics
*Microbiota/genetics
*Bacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
*Genome, Bacterial
Phylogeny
China
Symbiosis
Tick-Borne Diseases
Genome-Wide Association Study
Host Microbial Interactions/genetics
Host-Pathogen Interactions/genetics

@article {pmid40935925,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, Y and Wang, H and Sun, J and Wicaksono, WA and Liu, C and He, Y and Qin, Y and Berg, G and Li, L and Lin, H and Chai, Y and Bai, Y and Ma, Z and Cernava, T and Chen, Y},
title = {Phenazines contribute to microbiome dynamics by targeting topoisomerase IV.},
journal = {Nature microbiology},
volume = {10},
number = {10},
pages = {2396-2411},
pmid = {40935925},
issn = {2058-5276},
support = {LZ23C140004//Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province (Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation)/ ; U21A20219//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; },
mesh = {*Phenazines/metabolism/pharmacology ; Rhizosphere ; *Microbiota/drug effects ; Bacillus subtilis/drug effects/genetics/enzymology ; *DNA Topoisomerase IV/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors/genetics ; Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control ; Soil Microbiology ; *Bacteria/genetics/classification/metabolism/drug effects ; Fusarium/drug effects ; Pseudomonas/metabolism/genetics ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Genome, Bacterial ; DNA Damage/drug effects ; Metagenomics ; },
abstract = {Phenazines are highly prevalent, natural bioactive substances secreted by microbes. However, their mode of action and potential involvement in shaping microbiomes remain elusive. Here we performed a comprehensive analysis of over 1.35 million bacterial genomes to identify phenazine-producing bacteria distributed across 193 species in 34 families. Analysis of rhizosphere microbiome and public rhizosphere metagenomic datasets revealed that phenazines could shape the microbial community by inhibiting Gram-positive bacteria, which was verified by pairwise interaction assays using Phenazine-1-carboxamide (PCN)-producing Pseudomonas chlororaphis. PCN induced DNA damage in Bacillus subtilis, a model Gram-positive target, where it directly bound to the bacterial topoisomerase IV, inhibiting its decatenation activity and leading to cell death. A two-species consortium of phenazine-producing Pseudomonas and resistant B. subtilis exhibited superior synergistic activity in preventing Fusarium crown rot in wheat plants. This work advances our understanding of a prevalent microbial interaction and its potential for biocontrol.},
}

*Phenazines/metabolism/pharmacology
Rhizosphere
*Microbiota/drug effects
Bacillus subtilis/drug effects/genetics/enzymology
*DNA Topoisomerase IV/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors/genetics
Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control
Soil Microbiology
*Bacteria/genetics/classification/metabolism/drug effects
Fusarium/drug effects
Pseudomonas/metabolism/genetics
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Genome, Bacterial
DNA Damage/drug effects
Metagenomics

@article {pmid40921745,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, X and Li, Y and Qin, Y and Liao, Z and Deng, C and Chen, Y and Li, Y and Qian, H and He, Y and Chen, S and Shi, G and Liu, Y},
title = {Vientovirus capsid protein mimics autoantigens and contributes to autoimmunity in Sjögren's disease.},
journal = {Nature microbiology},
volume = {10},
number = {10},
pages = {2591-2602},
pmid = {40921745},
issn = {2058-5276},
support = {82471833//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 82101841//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 82171779//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 82371802//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 2023J06055//Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province (Fujian Provincial Natural Science Foundation)/ ; 2022XMSLCYX01//Xiamen Municipal Bureau of Science and Technology (Xiamen Science and Technology Bureau)/ ; },
mesh = {*Capsid Proteins/immunology/genetics ; *Sjogren's Syndrome/immunology/virology ; Humans ; *Autoantigens/immunology ; *Molecular Mimicry/immunology ; Animals ; Mice ; Female ; *Autoimmunity ; Saliva/virology ; Autoantibodies/immunology/blood ; Middle Aged ; Male ; Adult ; Virome ; },
abstract = {Viral infections are implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, including Sjögren's disease (SjD), but the mechanisms linking viral antigens to disease development remain poorly understood. To address this, we conducted shotgun metagenomic sequencing of saliva samples from 35 patients with SjD and 25 healthy controls. The salivary virome of the patients with SjD, particularly those with high disease activity, had an expansion of Siphoviridae bacteriophages and increased eukaryotic viral sequences, including Vientovirus. This virus was associated with lacrimal gland dysfunction and elevated anti-SSA/Ro52 autoantibody levels. Alignment analysis and cross-blocking assay identified molecular mimicry between the Vientovirus capsid protein and the autoantigen SSA/Ro52. Mice immunized with a Vientovirus capsid peptide developed anti-SSA/Ro52 antibodies and showed immunological features resembling those of patients with SjD. These findings highlight distinct virome profiles in SjD and provide mechanistic evidence supporting the role of Vientovirus in triggering autoimmunity through molecular mimicry.},
}

*Capsid Proteins/immunology/genetics
*Sjogren's Syndrome/immunology/virology
Humans
*Autoantigens/immunology
*Molecular Mimicry/immunology
Animals
Mice
Female
*Autoimmunity
Saliva/virology
Autoantibodies/immunology/blood
Middle Aged
Male
Adult
Virome

@article {pmid40819273,
year = {2025},
author = {Puranik, S and Mekali, J and Damodaram, KJP},
title = {Seed Biopriming From Basics to Omics: Relieving Plants From Biotic Stress Through the Microbial Way.},
journal = {Journal of basic microbiology},
volume = {65},
number = {10},
pages = {e70083},
doi = {10.1002/jobm.70083},
pmid = {40819273},
issn = {1521-4028},
mesh = {*Seeds/microbiology/growth & development ; *Stress, Physiological ; *Crops, Agricultural/microbiology/growth & development ; Plant Diseases/prevention & control/microbiology ; Rhizosphere ; Animals ; Metabolomics ; Proteomics ; Microbiota ; Plant Development ; *Agricultural Inoculants/physiology ; Metagenomics ; Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism ; },
abstract = {From seed to harvest, cultivated crops face numerous biotic stresses, including insects, nematodes, and diseases, which significantly hinder their growth and vigor, resulting in substantial crop losses. In contrast to use of toxic agrochemicals, seed biopriming with microbial inoculants has emerged as an effective and eco-friendly alternative against pathogens and pests. Seed biopriming involves coating seeds with beneficial microorganisms that enhance protection and immunity against a variety of harmful pests and pathogens. These microbial agents colonize the seeds and establish themselves in the rhizosphere, reducing the impact of biotic stresses while fostering a healthier environment for plant growth. They are known to exhibit several mechanisms against pathogens and pests, like production of cell wall degrading enzymes, antibiosis, competition, induced systemic resistance, chelation of iron etc. Additionally, these microorganisms regulate phytohormone levels, further optimizing the physiological and metabolic characteristics of plants. This approach not only promotes robust plant growth but also enhances tolerance to deleterious bacteria, fungi, nematodes and arthropods, ensuring healthier crops. These interactions can further be well studied and expressed by using different omics approaches like metagenomics (of seed microbiome), proteomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics and differential gene expression. This review highlights the role and benefits of seed biopriming as a sustainable strategy to manage biotic stresses effectively, and the importance of omics for better understanding of complex processes during such interactions, contributing to resilient agricultural production systems and environmental sustainability.},
}

*Seeds/microbiology/growth & development
*Stress, Physiological
*Crops, Agricultural/microbiology/growth & development
Plant Diseases/prevention & control/microbiology
Rhizosphere
Animals
Metabolomics
Proteomics
Microbiota
Plant Development
*Agricultural Inoculants/physiology
Metagenomics
Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism

@article {pmid41030387,
year = {2025},
author = {Zheng-Qiang, L and Jun, L and Rui, A and Rui, L and Wei, D and Ping, M and Xu, Y and Rong, S and Xiao-Yan, Y and Wen, X},
title = {A probiotic for preventing microplastic toxicity: Clostridium dalinum mitigates microplastic-induced damage via microbiota-metabolism-barrier interactions.},
journal = {Current research in food science},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {101200},
pmid = {41030387},
issn = {2665-9271},
abstract = {Microplastics (MPs) are widely distributed and accumulated in the environment, making it nearly impossible for humans to avoid ingestion. Their toxicity can cause serious health damage and pose a threat to human health. In this context, developing strategies to prevent and restore toxic damage from their ingestion is extremely urgent. This study comprehensively employs various techniques, including metagenomics and metabolomics, to explore the pre-protective and restorative effects of Clostridium dalinum, a potential probiotic with excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities, on damage induced by exposure to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) in mice. The results show that exposure to PS-MPs leads to significant intestinal damage in mice; preemptive intake of C. dalinum for pre-protection, or post-exposure intake of C. dalinum for restorative treatment, both significantly reduced the damage caused by MPs exposure, as evidenced by changes in intestinal length (PS-MPs exposure vs C. dalinum pre-protection vs C. dalinum restoration vs control = 36.55 vs 39.94 vs 40.12 vs 41.05 cm), barrier protein content (27.12 % vs 97.28 % vs 97.73 % vs 100.00 %), and inflammation levels (284.56 % vs 101.05 % vs 98.17 % vs 100.00 %). Mechanistically, the pre-protective and restorative effects of C. dalinum both rely on upregulating the expression of barrier proteins such as ZO-1 and Occludin and inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB inflammatory signaling pathway. Meanwhile, the two intervention modes also exhibit specific mechanisms: in the pre-protection mode, C. dalinum enhances lipid metabolic balance and antioxidant reserves by pre-activating the PPARγ/GPR43 pathway, and enriches the ABC transporters pathway to promote toxin efflux capacity, thereby preventing PS-MPs-induced damage; in the restoration mode, C. dalinum repairs intestinal damage by enriching the beneficial bacterium Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 and inhibiting the pro-inflammatory bacterium Desulfovibrio, and regulating intestinal metabolites. In summary, this study is the first to confirm that C. dalinum can effectively prevent and restore intestinal damage caused by PS-MPs exposure through the synergistic pathway of "microbiota-metabolism-barrier". Importantly, this study is the first to reveal the potential and unique mechanisms of probiotics in preventing and restoring MPs exposure toxicity, providing a theoretical basis for the future development of probiotic-based defense strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41029845,
year = {2025},
author = {Rey-Velasco, X and Auladell, A and Deulofeu-Capo, O and Lundin, D and Pinhassi, J and Ferrera, I and Sánchez, O and Gasol, JM},
title = {Decoding the genetic drivers of marine bacterial blooms through comparative genomics.},
journal = {Microbiome},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {198},
pmid = {41029845},
issn = {2049-2618},
support = {PID2021-125469NB-C31//Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación/ ; PID2021-125469NB-C31//Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación/ ; PID2021-125469NB-C31//Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación/ ; PID2021-125469NB-C31//Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación/ ; PID2021-125469NB-C31//Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación/ ; SPIP2020-02595//Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica y el Reto Demográfico/ ; SPIP2020-02595//Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica y el Reto Demográfico/ ; SPIP2020-02595//Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica y el Reto Demográfico/ ; SPIP2020-02595//Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica y el Reto Demográfico/ ; FPU20/01625//Ministerio de Universidades/ ; },
mesh = {*Bacteria/genetics/classification/growth & development/isolation & purification ; *Genome, Bacterial ; *Seawater/microbiology ; *Genomics/methods ; *Microbiota/genetics ; Phytoplankton ; Metagenome ; Eutrophication ; Metagenomics/methods ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: While oligotrophic bacteria are known to dominate most marine microbial habitats, under certain conditions, such as during phytoplankton blooms, copiotrophs can dramatically increase in abundance and reach towering proportions of the bacterial communities. We are uncertain whether the bacteria exhibiting this capacity, which we denote as "bloomers," have specific functional characteristics or if, instead, they are randomly selected from the broader pool of copiotrophs. To explore the genomic determinants of this ecological trait, we conducted a comparative genomic analysis of bacterial genomes from microcosm experiments where grazer and viral presence was reduced and nutrient availability was increased, conditions that triggered bacterial blooms.

RESULTS: We tested which functional genes were overrepresented in the bacteria that responded to the treatments, examining a total of 305 genomes from isolates and metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) that were categorized as copiotrophs or oligotrophs according to their codon usage bias (CUB). The responsive bacteria were enriched in genes related to transcriptional regulation in response to stimuli (mostly via two-component systems), transport, secretion, cell protection, catabolism of sugars and amino acids, and membrane/cell wall biosynthesis. These genes confer on them capabilities for adhesion, biofilm formation, resistance to stress, quorum sensing, chemotaxis, nutrient uptake, and fast replication. They were overrepresented mainly in copiotrophic genomes from the families Alteromonadaceae, Vibrionaceae, Rhodobacteraceae, Sphingomonadaceae, and Flavobacteriaceae. Additionally, we found that these responsive bacteria, when abundant, could affect biogeochemical cycling, particularly the phosphorus cycle.

CONCLUSIONS: In this study, we provide insights into the functional characteristics that enable certain bacteria to rapidly respond to changes in the environment and bloom. We also hint at the ecological meaning and implications of these phenomena that could affect biogeochemical cycles in the oceans. Video Abstract.},
}

*Bacteria/genetics/classification/growth & development/isolation & purification
*Genome, Bacterial
*Seawater/microbiology
*Genomics/methods
*Microbiota/genetics
Phytoplankton
Metagenome
Eutrophication
Metagenomics/methods

@article {pmid41029787,
year = {2025},
author = {Lemieux, É and Monger, XC and Saucier, L and Charette, SJ and Guay, F and Pouliot, É and Fournaise, S and Vincent, AT},
title = {Effect of an antibiotic and a probiotic on phage communities in the swine gut microbiota.},
journal = {BMC research notes},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {402},
pmid = {41029787},
issn = {1756-0500},
support = {RGPIN-2022-03321//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Probiotics/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; Swine/microbiology ; *Bacteriophages/drug effects/genetics ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Feces/microbiology/virology ; Cross-Over Studies ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The impact of dietary treatments on the phage community of porcine intestinal microbiota is not well understood. An antibiotic (tylvalosin), a probiotic (Pediococcus acidilactici), and a combination of these were given to six cannulated pigs in a double crossover design study. Samples of ileal digesta and feces were collected and whole genome shotgun sequencing was performed. The variations in phage and bacterial communities were compared for each treatment and sample type.

RESULTS: The bacteriophages present in the gut microbiome exhibited greater variations in both α- and β-diversity between sample types (digesta, feces) than between treatments. β-diversity and differential abundance showed that the effect of the combined antibiotic and probiotic treatment was the same as with the antibiotic alone. However, the effects of the probiotic and antibiotic treatments were statistically significantly different in the fecal samples. β-diversity was different in those two treatments, and differential abundance analysis identified multiple phages as markers for each treatment. No significant variations in relative abundance were found in phage lifestyle (i.e., virulent, temperate) between treatments.},
}

Animals
*Probiotics/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
Swine/microbiology
*Bacteriophages/drug effects/genetics
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Feces/microbiology/virology
Cross-Over Studies

@article {pmid41028378,
year = {2026},
author = {Sahil, R and Jain, M},
title = {A Multi-omics Approach for Microbiome Data Analysis in Legumes.},
journal = {Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)},
volume = {2977},
number = {},
pages = {181-196},
pmid = {41028378},
issn = {1940-6029},
mesh = {*Microbiota/genetics ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Fabaceae/microbiology/genetics ; *Computational Biology/methods ; Data Analysis ; Metagenome ; Multiomics ; },
abstract = {Microbiome plays a crucial role in influencing the health and function of living beings as well as in regulating the biogeochemical cycles. The plant microbiome, in particular, has garnered significant research interest aimed at exploring the microbes that play a crucial role in regulating plant growth and nutrient acquisition. Recent advancements in omics sciences have played a crucial role in uncovering the complexities of these relationships. While techniques such as amplicon and shotgun metagenomics provide taxonomic profiling up to the species level and even the strain level, metatranscriptomics further elucidates the functional roles of these microbes. These techniques are being rapidly and widely adopted to understand the influence of microbes on the host. However, the challenge lies in their integration. Most studies to date rely on only one of these techniques, which limits the scope of holistic understanding of host-microbe interactions. Additionally, there is currently no well-established workflow that effectively combines these techniques to provide comprehensive biological insights. In this work, we describe an integrated approach for microbiome data analysis to provide biologically meaningful insights.},
}

*Microbiota/genetics
*Metagenomics/methods
*Fabaceae/microbiology/genetics
*Computational Biology/methods
Data Analysis
Metagenome
Multiomics

@article {pmid40958146,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, Q and Liu, J and Lyu, S and Li, S and Han, Q and Ma, C and Du, Z and Zhang, T},
title = {Ovalbumin Peptides Restore Intestinal Barrier Integrity via Gut-Liver Axis Modulation of Bile Salt Hydrolase and Bile Acids Crosstalk.},
journal = {Journal of agricultural and food chemistry},
volume = {73},
number = {39},
pages = {24741-24752},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jafc.5c07236},
pmid = {40958146},
issn = {1520-5118},
mesh = {Animals ; *Bile Acids and Salts/metabolism ; Mice ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; *Ovalbumin/chemistry/administration & dosage ; *Liver/metabolism/drug effects ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Male ; *Amidohydrolases/metabolism/genetics ; Humans ; *Intestinal Mucosa/metabolism/drug effects ; *Peptides/administration & dosage/chemistry ; *Colitis/metabolism/drug therapy/microbiology/genetics ; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear/metabolism/genetics ; Fibroblast Growth Factors/metabolism/genetics ; *Inflammatory Bowel Diseases/metabolism/drug therapy/microbiology/genetics ; Mucin-2/genetics/metabolism ; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by intestinal barrier dysfunction and bile acid (BA) dysmetabolism. BA metabolism was a pivotal regulator in the "gut-liver axis" to maintain intestinal homeostasis. Ovalbumin-derived peptides (OVA-Ps) exhibit potential in barrier repair; however, their systemic mechanisms within the microbiota-BA-host network remain underexplored. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of the oligomer OVA-P in a DSS-induced colitis mouse model. OVA-P administration significantly alleviated colitis symptoms, restored colon length, reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α), and enhanced antioxidant markers (SOD). Mechanistically, the OVA-P reshaped gut microbiota composition, suppressed bile salt hydrolase (BSH), and elevated conjugated BAs (e.g., taurocholic acid) levels. These changes activated the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) pathway, upregulating tight junction protein (ZO-1), and mucin (MUC-2) expression, thereby restoring intestinal barrier integrity. Metabolomic and metagenomic analyses confirmed the OVA-P-mediated modulation of the gut-liver axis through FXR-SHP/FGF15 signaling, highlighting its role in maintaining BA homeostasis. These findings provide insights into the use of OVA-P as a dietary intervention for IBD by targeting microbiota-BA-FXR interactions, offering a foundation for high-value egg protein applications in functional foods.},
}

Animals
*Bile Acids and Salts/metabolism
Mice
Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
*Ovalbumin/chemistry/administration & dosage
*Liver/metabolism/drug effects
Mice, Inbred C57BL
Male
*Amidohydrolases/metabolism/genetics
Humans
*Intestinal Mucosa/metabolism/drug effects
*Peptides/administration & dosage/chemistry
*Colitis/metabolism/drug therapy/microbiology/genetics
Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear/metabolism/genetics
Fibroblast Growth Factors/metabolism/genetics
*Inflammatory Bowel Diseases/metabolism/drug therapy/microbiology/genetics
Mucin-2/genetics/metabolism
Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid40925130,
year = {2025},
author = {Sahu, KK and Yadav, K and Pradhan, M and Sharma, M and Dubey, A and Sucheta, and Kirubakaran, JJ},
title = {Pharmacological insights into gut microbiota modulation in systemic lupus erythematosus: Mechanisms, treatment strategies, and clinical implications.},
journal = {The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics},
volume = {392},
number = {9},
pages = {103659},
doi = {10.1016/j.jpet.2025.103659},
pmid = {40925130},
issn = {1521-0103},
mesh = {*Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/microbiology/immunology/therapy/drug therapy ; Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/immunology ; Animals ; Probiotics/therapeutic use ; Fecal Microbiota Transplantation/methods ; Dysbiosis/immunology ; },
abstract = {Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by widespread inflammation and immune system dysregulation. Recent research suggests that the gut microbiota may play a role in the development of SLE by modulating immune system responses, affecting cytokine production, and altering the activity of T and B cells lymphocytes. As a result, there is a growing interest in microbiota-targeted therapies, including probiotics, dietary changes, and fecal microbiota transplantation. These methods may help restore the balance of microbes and reduce disease activity, but there are still a number of problems to solve. For example, microbiota composition varies greatly from person to person, and it is not clear how dysbiosis causes disease onset. There are also safety concerns about fecal microbiota transplantation. Experimental and clinical studies have started to shed light on the complicated ways in which microbial communities and immune function affect each other in SLE. These studies provide useful information, but their results are often inconsistent. As research continues, integrative methods like metagenomics and metabolomics may help find microbial signatures linked to disease, helping create more accurate and personalized treatments. The gut microbiome is a promising yet still developing area of research that could help us learn more about autoimmune diseases and their treatment, such as SLE. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Grasping the complex interplay between gut microbiota and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has provided an avenue for therapeutic intervention. This study emphasizes the importance of gut dysbiosis in immune dysregulation, with connections between microbial translocation, molecular mimicry, and inflammatory pathways as contributing factors to the progression of SLE. This work sets the stage for novel and targeted approaches to treating SLE and improving patient outcomes by investigating microbiota-centric treatment options, such as probiotics, dietary interventions, and fecal microbiota transplantation.},
}

*Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/microbiology/immunology/therapy/drug therapy
Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/immunology
Animals
Probiotics/therapeutic use
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation/methods
Dysbiosis/immunology

@article {pmid40794770,
year = {2025},
author = {Chia, M and Pop, M and Salzberg, SL and Nagarajan, N},
title = {Challenges and Opportunities in Analyzing Cancer-Associated Microbiomes.},
journal = {Cancer research},
volume = {85},
number = {19},
pages = {3584-3595},
pmid = {40794770},
issn = {1538-7445},
support = {R01 HG006677/HG/NHGRI NIH HHS/United States ; R35 GM130151/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; OFYIRG21nov-0024//National Medical Research Council (NMRC)/ ; R35-GM130151//National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)/ ; R01-HG006677//National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI)/ ; NRFI09-0015//National Research Foundation Singapore (NRF)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Neoplasms/microbiology ; *Microbiota ; *Metagenomics/methods ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; Computational Biology/methods ; },
abstract = {The study of cancer-associated microbiomes has gained significant attention in recent years, spurred by advances in high-throughput sequencing and metagenomic analysis. Microbiome research holds promise for identifying noninvasive biomarkers and possibly new paradigms for cancer treatment. In this review, we explore the key computational challenges and opportunities in analyzing cancer-associated microbiomes (in tumor/normal tissues and other body sites, e.g., gut, oral, and skin), focusing on sequencing-driven strategies and associated considerations for taxonomic and functional characterization. The discussion covers the strengths and limitations of current analysis tools for identifying contamination, determining compositional bias, and resolving species and strains, as well as the statistical, metabolic, and network inferences that are essential to uncover host-microbiome interactions. Several key considerations are required to guide the choice of databases used for metagenomic analysis in such studies. Recent advances in spatial and single-cell technologies have provided insights into cancer-associated microbiomes, and Artificial Intelligence-driven protein function prediction might enable rapid advances in this field. Finally, we provide a perspective on how the field can evolve to manage the ever-growing size of datasets and generate robust and testable hypotheses. This article is part of a special series: Driving Cancer Discoveries with Computational Research, Data Science, and Machine Learning/AI .},
}

Humans
*Neoplasms/microbiology
*Microbiota
*Metagenomics/methods
High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods
Computational Biology/methods

@article {pmid41026172,
year = {2025},
author = {Gao, H and Ma, X and Lu, M and Wang, Y and Liu, H and Hu, X and Nie, Y},
title = {Population and Spatial Features Impact the Gut Phageome-Bacteriome Structure and Interactions in a Mammal Species Living in Fragmented Habitats.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {88},
number = {1},
pages = {98},
pmid = {41026172},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {32225033//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022YFF1301500//Ministry of Science and Technology of China/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Bacteriophages/genetics/classification/physiology/isolation & purification ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification/virology ; *Ecosystem ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Antelopes/microbiology/virology ; Metagenome ; Feces/microbiology ; },
abstract = {The mammalian gut microbiome composition has been shown to promote host adaptation to ecological environments. However, the variation in the gut phageome and bacteriome composition at both the population level and spatial scale in wild animals has not been well investigated. Here, we used viral metagenomes and 16S rRNA gene sequencing to explore how these characteristics affect the gut microbiome of Przewalski's gazelle, an endangered group-living ungulate that lives in several fragmented habitats due to anthropogenic activities. The results revealed that population and habitat geographic characteristics collectively explained much more of the variation in phageome and bacteriome compositions than did host-associated factors. Both gut phage and bacterial diversity were positively associated with population size, and differentiation in gut microbiome diversity increased with geographic distance among populations. Additionally, the gut phage and the bacterial hosts displayed similar patterns in composition across habitats, indicating that the microbiome may exhibit complex interactions in response to the environment. For the first time, our study reveals the important roles of population and habitat geographic characteristics in driving spatial patterns of gut microbiome structures in wild animals and highlights the interactions between gut phages and the bacteriome in adaptation to living environments under the influence of human disturbances.},
}

Animals
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Bacteriophages/genetics/classification/physiology/isolation & purification
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification/virology
*Ecosystem
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Antelopes/microbiology/virology
Metagenome
Feces/microbiology

@article {pmid41026152,
year = {2025},
author = {Nassirnia, S and Scherz, V and Greub, G and Caruana, G and Taffé, P and Jaton, K and Papis, S and Posfay-Barbe, KM and Mornand, A and Rochat-Guignard, I and Bertelli, C and Asner, SA},
title = {Concordance between upper and lower airway microbiota in children with cystic fibrosis.},
journal = {Journal of medical microbiology},
volume = {74},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/jmm.0.002079},
pmid = {41026152},
issn = {1473-5644},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cystic Fibrosis/microbiology ; *Sputum/microbiology ; *Microbiota ; Child ; *Pharynx/microbiology ; Male ; Female ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Prospective Studies ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Child, Preschool ; Adolescent ; Longitudinal Studies ; *Respiratory System/microbiology ; Metagenomics ; Infant ; },
abstract = {Introduction. Sputum is the most used sample type to monitor the lower respiratory tract microbiota in cystic fibrosis (CF), but young patients often cannot expectorate.Hypothesis. We hypothesized that throat swabs could reflect lower airway colonization and assessed the concordance of bacterial community composition between paired sputum and throat swab samples from children with CF.Aim. We aimed to compare bacterial community diversity and composition between sputum and throat swabs in the full cohort and in patients with paired samples from the same visit.Methodology. The prospective longitudinal multicentre MUCOVIB cohort included 379 samples from 61 CF children. Using V3-V4 16S rRNA amplicon metagenomics, we compared bacterial community diversity and composition between sputum and throat swabs in the full cohort and in 11 patients with paired samples from the same visit.Results. Sputum and throat swabs exhibited similar bacterial diversity, regardless of the exacerbation status, and presented a substantial agreement for detecting pathogens (Cohen's kappa: 0.6). Differences in bacterial abundance were observed (P=0.001), but not presence/absence (P=0.098). Community typing revealed three distinct community types, with 86% of paired samples falling into the same cluster, highlighting the homogeneity between sputum and throat swab microbiota. Network analysis demonstrated slight, non-random similarities in microbial interactions between sample types (adjusted Rand index=0.08 and 0.10). The average beta-diversity distances between samples collected from the same visit were shorter (0.505±0.056 95% confidence interval), compared with sputum (0.695±0.017) or throat swab (0.704±0.045) from the same patient collected during different visits.Conclusion. Throat swabs can provide representative information on lower respiratory microbiota. Clinicians should collect throat swabs rather than relying on sputum samples from previous visits to guide antibiotic prescriptions in CF children unable to expectorate.},
}

Humans
*Cystic Fibrosis/microbiology
*Sputum/microbiology
*Microbiota
Child
*Pharynx/microbiology
Male
Female
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Prospective Studies
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Child, Preschool
Adolescent
Longitudinal Studies
*Respiratory System/microbiology
Metagenomics
Infant

@article {pmid40940575,
year = {2025},
author = {Abenaim, L and Mercati, D and Mandoli, A and Carpentier, J and Noël, G and Conti, B and Caparros Megido, R and Dallai, R},
title = {Exploring the plastivorous activity of Hermetia illucens (Diptera Stratiomyidae) larvae.},
journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international},
volume = {32},
number = {36},
pages = {21649-21665},
pmid = {40940575},
issn = {1614-7499},
mesh = {Animals ; Larva ; *Diptera ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; },
abstract = {Hermetia illucens (Diptera Stratiomyidae), also known as Black Soldier Fly (BSF), is one of the insect species most investigated for biodegradation ability in its larvae. H. illucens larvae can biodegrade organic waste but also contaminants like pesticides, antibiotics, and mycotoxins. This study wants to investigate the ability of these larvae to degrade polystyrene (PS). Experiments evaluated the growth performance, survival rates, intestinal and intracellular morphological alterations, degradation by-product formation and intestinal microbiota alterations of larvae fed a PS-enriched diet. Despite the addition of PS microparticles, no significant differences in growth or survival were observed compared to the standard diet (p > 0.05). Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy confirmed the presence of PS microparticles in the larval gut, with potential signs of biodegradation. Metabolomic analyses identified styrene in the gut after 1 and 3 days of PS feeding, but its occurrence was likely due to thermal depolymerisation of the PS microparticles under GC-MS conditions. Metagenomic analysis revealed significant shifts in the intestinal microbiota. Notably, an enrichment of Corynebacterium, known for its role in aerobic PS degradation, and the abundance increase of other genera (Enterococcus, Enterobacteriaceae, Enterobacter, and Escherichia-Shigella) associated with synthetic polymer metabolism was observed. These results confirm the potential of BSF larvae to manage plastic waste through the interaction between their gut microbiota and synthetic materials. This study provides a foundation for future research focusing on isolating bacterial communities and enzymatic processes involved in polymer degradation, aiming to develop sustainable strategies for plastic waste management.},
}

Animals
Larva
*Diptera
Biodegradation, Environmental
Gastrointestinal Microbiome

@article {pmid40037519,
year = {2025},
author = {Jawale, N and Shenberger, JS and Rodriguez, RJ and Shetty, AK and Garg, PM},
title = {The Nonbacterial Infant Microbiome and Necrotizing Enterocolitis.},
journal = {American journal of perinatology},
volume = {42},
number = {14},
pages = {1836-1845},
pmid = {40037519},
issn = {1098-8785},
support = {U54 GM115428/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; U54GM115428/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; U54GM115428//NIGMS of the NIH/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/microbiology/virology ; Infant, Newborn ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Infant, Premature ; Dysbiosis/microbiology ; Bacteriophages ; *Infant, Premature, Diseases/microbiology ; Mycobiome ; Virome ; Virus Diseases/complications ; },
abstract = {Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is among the most devastating neonatal illnesses of premature infants. Although it is a disease of multifactorial etiology associated with bacterial dysbiosis, several reports of viral and some fungal infections associated with NEC have been published. Despite the abundance of viruses-primarily bacteriophages, and "virus-like particles" in the normal infant gut flora, there is limited understanding of the contribution of these elements to newborn gut health and disease. This study aims to review existing evidence on normal newborn virome and mycobiome development and present insights into the complex inter-kingdom interactions between gut bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the intestinal ecosystem, exploring their potential role in predisposing the preterm infant to NEC. · We have reviewed a number of viral and fungal infections reported in association with NEC-like illnesses.. · Bacteriophages play a crucial role in the gut microbiome development, but their role in pathogenesis of NEC and potential for therapeutic use is unknown.. · Development of next-gen metagenomic tools are needed to enhance our understanding of viral diversity, bacteriophages, and the gut virome in the context of neonatal health and disease..},
}

Humans
*Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/microbiology/virology
Infant, Newborn
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Infant, Premature
Dysbiosis/microbiology
Bacteriophages
*Infant, Premature, Diseases/microbiology
Mycobiome
Virome
Virus Diseases/complications

@article {pmid41025248,
year = {2025},
author = {Park, YJ and Lim, JK and Lee, YJ and Kwon, KK},
title = {Protocol for efficient recovery of high-quality DNA from microbiome of marine invertebrates.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology (Seoul, Korea)},
volume = {63},
number = {9},
pages = {e2507003},
doi = {10.71150/jm.2507003},
pmid = {41025248},
issn = {1976-3794},
support = {EA0311//Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries/ ; KIMST 20210469//Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Microbiota/genetics ; *DNA, Bacterial/isolation & purification/genetics ; *Aquatic Organisms/microbiology ; *Bacteria/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; *Porifera/microbiology ; Symbiosis ; Republic of Korea ; *Invertebrates/microbiology ; Anthozoa/microbiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; },
abstract = {Marine organisms often form symbiotic relationships with various microorganisms to adapt and thrive in harsh environments. These symbiotic microbes contribute to host survival by providing nutrition, modulating the hosts' immune system, and supporting overall physiological stability. Advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies have enabled a deeper understanding of the structure and function of symbiotic microbial communities, as well as host-microbe interactions. Notably, symbiotic bacteria associated with marine invertebrates such as corals and sponges are recognized as a potential source of useful bioactive compounds, including antibiotics and enzymes. However, obtaining high-quality microbial DNA from host tissues still remains a technical challenge due to the presence of unknown substances. This study focuses on optimizing sample preparation and DNA extraction procedures and additional purification to improve the recovery of microbial DNA while minimizing host DNA contamination. Comparison between several methods was conducted using sponge samples to evaluate DNA quality and microbial recovery. A sample designated as 2110BU-001 was collected from the east coast of the Republic of Korea and used for culture-independent microbial cell isolation. Total bacterial DNA was extracted by using a manual Phenol-Chloroform protocol and three commercial kits. DNA extracted using the standard manual method showed both the highest yield and the largest fragment size. However, PCR (Polymerase chain reaction) test showed that quality of manually extracted DNA was not enough for sequencing. Therefore, the quality of DNA was improved through additional purification steps. Briefly, host eukaryotic cells were removed by mechanical process and almost only bacterial DNA was successfully obtained by combination of manual extraction method and further purification processes. The established protocol was successfully introduced to extraction of metagenomic DNA from mussel and jellyfish microbiomes, indicating that it can be widely applied to various marine organisms.},
}

Animals
*Microbiota/genetics
*DNA, Bacterial/isolation & purification/genetics
*Aquatic Organisms/microbiology
*Bacteria/genetics/isolation & purification/classification
*Porifera/microbiology
Symbiosis
Republic of Korea
*Invertebrates/microbiology
Anthozoa/microbiology
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing
Polymerase Chain Reaction

@article {pmid41024767,
year = {2025},
author = {Ezzat, WM},
title = {Machine learning as an artificial intelligence application in management of chronic hepatitis B virus infection.},
journal = {World journal of gastroenterology},
volume = {31},
number = {35},
pages = {109776},
doi = {10.3748/wjg.v31.i35.109776},
pmid = {41024767},
issn = {2219-2840},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hepatitis B, Chronic/therapy/microbiology/diagnosis/virology ; *Machine Learning ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Hepatitis B virus/pathogenicity ; Algorithms ; Artificial Intelligence ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Supervised Machine Learning ; },
abstract = {Let's review the role of gut microbiota in pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis B infection as addressed in by Zhu et al. Zhu et al used high-throughput technology to characterize the microbial ecosystems, which led to an explosion of various types of molecular profiling data, such as metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and metabolomics. To analyze such data, machine learning (ML) algorithms have shown to be useful for identifying key molecular signatures, discovering potential patient stratifications, and, particularly, for generating models that can accurately predict phenotypes. Strong evidence suggests that such gut microbiome-based stratification could guide customized interventions to benefit human health. Supervised learning includes designing an algorithm to fix a pre-identified problem. To get an answer, ML software must access data that have been nominated. On the other hand, unsupervised learning does not address any pre-defined problems. Bias should be eliminated as much as possible. In unsupervised learning, an ML algorithm works to identify data patterns without any prior operator input. This can subsequently lead to elements being identified that could not be conceived by the operator. At the intersection between supervised and unsupervised learning is semi-supervised ML. Semi-supervised learning includes using a partially labeled data set. The ML algorithm utilizes unsupervised learning to label data (that has not yet been labelled) by drawing findings from the labeled data. Then, supervised techniques can be used to solve defined problems involving the labeled data. Reinforcement learning, which is similar to supervised learning in the meaning, is goal-oriented. Reinforcement learning does not need labeled data, instead, it is provided with a set of regulations on a problem. An algorithm will carry out operations to try to answer questions involving the problem. Based on obtained data of gut microbiota, various therapeutic modalities can be applied: Prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, engineered bacteria, bacteriophage, and novel microbe-materials therapeutic system and fecal transplantation. In conclusion, ML is an artificial intelligence application that helps in providing new perspectives on tailored therapy. Furthermore, assessing the impact of gut microbiota modification is a critical step in advanced liver disease management. These new artificial intelligence techniques although promising, still require further analysis and validation in future studies.},
}

Humans
*Hepatitis B, Chronic/therapy/microbiology/diagnosis/virology
*Machine Learning
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Hepatitis B virus/pathogenicity
Algorithms
Artificial Intelligence
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Supervised Machine Learning

@article {pmid41024212,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Y and Gong, L and Dong, D and Li, X},
title = {Metagenomic binning reveals community and functional characteristics of sulfur- and methane-oxidizing bacteria in cold seep sponge ground.},
journal = {Environmental microbiome},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {122},
pmid = {41024212},
issn = {2524-6372},
support = {KEXUE2020GZ01//The Senior User Project of R/V Kexue/ ; 42176114//The National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; ZR2023MD100//Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cold seep sponges typically reside in the carbonate rock areas surrounding the vents, often comprising only a few individuals of a limited number of species. Previous limited studies have indicated that sponges living in seeps or vents host chemolithotrophic microorganisms, including sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (SOB) and methane-oxidizing bacteria (MOB), regardless of their feeding habits. This suggests that they may utilize compounds from their environment. However, when multiple sponge species are found co-occurring in a single sponge ground sharing identical environmental and material conditions, it remains unclear how their symbiotic community structure will behave. Specifically, it is uncertain whether the community will exhibit greater similarity or, as seen in most studies, demonstrate host specificity.

RESULTS: We utilize metagenomics and binning analysis to characterize six new sponge species belonging to two classes and two distinct dietary habits, all discovered in the same cold seep. Our findings reveal that their associated microbial communities, primarily composed of SOB and MOB from the phylum Proteobacteria, exhibit a high abundance of groups with the same chemosynthetic functions. Binning recovered diverse, novel MAGs (metagenome-assembled genomes) primarily dominated by order PS1 (SOB) and order Methylococcales (MOB). This similarity extends beyond the dietary habits and higher taxonomic levels of the sponge hosts. Phylogenetic and abundance difference analyses of MAGs indicate significant host specificity in the selection of symbiotic microbial species among different sponge species. Notably, these MOB and SOB exhibit potential novelty within their clade compared to known taxa. Furthermore, the genomes of these SOB and MOB contain abundant functions related to their adaptation to the chemoautotrophic environment and symbiotic lifestyle within the cold seep.

CONCLUSIONS: The chemosynthetic environment shapes the high relative abundance of key functional groups that dominate the symbiotic community, while the species differences among host sponges determine the strain selection within these groups. The metabolic functions expressed by this "convergence with divergence" community structure collectively endow the holobionts with the ability to adapt to the cold seep environment.},
}

@article {pmid41023790,
year = {2025},
author = {Cao, L and Sun, H and Wang, Y and Wei, Z and Zhang, J and Wang, Y and Yan, J and Zhu, Y and Cheng, N and He, S and Liu, X and Li, T and Wang, M and Li, E},
title = {Comparative analysis of metagenomics between high- and medium-temperature daqu, and microbial succession in Jiang-Nong Jianxiang Baijiu fermentation.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {852},
pmid = {41023790},
issn = {1471-2164},
mesh = {*Fermentation ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Alcoholic Beverages/microbiology ; *Microbiota ; *Bacteria/genetics/classification ; Temperature ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The mixture of high-temperature Daqu and medium-temperature Daqu can be used to produce Chinese Jiang-Nong Jianxiang Baijiu. This study used metagenomic sequencing and physicochemical analysis to investigate the microbial community and functionality of high-temperature Daqu and medium-temperature Daqu. In addition, exploring the changes of microbial communities during the Jiang-Nong Jianxiang Baijiu fermentation process.

RESULTS: The results showed that Lichtheimia ramose and Saccharopolyspora rectivirgula were the significantly different species in high-temperature Daqu. However, Paecilomyces variotii, Aspergillus chevalieri, and Rasamsonia emersonii were the significantly different species in medium-temperature Daqu. The medium-temperature Daqu had higher saccharifying power (101.20 ± 1.85 U/g) than high-temperature Daqu (60.00 ± 0.58 U/g). And the protease activity of high-temperature Daqu (62.47 ± 5.84 U/mg) was significantly higher than medium-temperature Daqu (36.10 ± 1.13 U/mg). The community structure analysis results of the stack fermentation stage showed that the mixture of high-temperature Daqu and medium-temperature Daqu inherited the community advantages of both high-temperature Daqu and medium-temperature Daqu. With Jiang-Nong Jianxiang Baijiu fermentation, the significantly different species changed from Pichia sp., Acetobacter sp., and Lactobacillus sp. to Pediococcus sp., Lactobacillus sp., Lentilactobacillus sp., Saccharomyces sp., Thermoactinomyces sp., and Saccharopolyspora sp., implying the importance of acid-resistant and ethanol-resistant microorganisms for the production of flavor substances in the late Baijiu fermentation.

CONCLUSIONS: Our research revealed the difference in microbial communities between high-temperature Daqu and medium-temperature Daqu, and demonstrated the shifts and functionality of microbiota during Jiang-Nong Jianxiang Baijiu fermentation. This study provides a theoretical reference for utilizing core synergistic microbiota and their functional traits in Baijiu fermentation starters to improve Baijiu quality.},
}

*Fermentation
*Metagenomics/methods
*Alcoholic Beverages/microbiology
*Microbiota
*Bacteria/genetics/classification
Temperature
Phylogeny

@article {pmid41023192,
year = {2025},
author = {Vishal, V and Thakur, P and Tigga, SS and Lal, S},
title = {A metagenomic assessment of overburden dump of coal mine soil bacterial consortium from Jharkhand, India.},
journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment},
volume = {197},
number = {10},
pages = {1161},
pmid = {41023192},
issn = {1573-2959},
mesh = {*Soil Microbiology ; India ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics ; *Coal Mining ; *Environmental Monitoring ; *Soil Pollutants/analysis ; Metagenomics ; Soil/chemistry ; *Microbial Consortia ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S ; Coal ; },
abstract = {Overburden dump (OBD) of coal mine waste soils is arguably a major source of heavy metals and metalloids, leading to both public health and ecological consequences. This study employed hypervariable V3-V4 region of 1.5 kbp 16S rDNA gene-based amplicon metagenomic sequencing to analyze unexplored bacterial diversity and its phenotypical and hypothetical functions, emphasizing the significance of these studies for assessing the potential of bioremediation. Triplicate coal OBD soil samples were collected from the coal dumping yard of Sarubera Colliery from Atna-Chainpur and agricultural soils from Ramgarh Cantonment, Jharkhand. There were 30 phyla And 320 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) recorded in coal OBD soil, while agricultural soil had 26 phyla And 240 OTUs. Proteobacteria were the predominant phylum in both environments. Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes were the most prevalent phyla in the coal OBD soil, whereas Acidobacteria, Planctomycetes, and Nitrospirae were most frequently found in agricultural soil. Alphaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria was the most abundant classes, and whereas the mesophilic Acinetobacter were the most abundant genus detected in coal OBD soil. The PICRUSt2 pipeline predicted hypothetical functional categories, identifying 2404 EC numbers, 7813 KO terms, And 442 MetaCyc pathways. The most enriched categories were RNA polymerase sigma-70 factor, ABC transporters, And 3-oxoacyl-[acyl-carrier-protein] reductase, aerobic respiration pathways, and pyruvate fermentation biosynthesis pathways. Taxonomy-to-phenotypic mapping was used to record phenotypic categories like oxygen requirement, temperature range, energy sources, biotic relationships, and Gram stain nature between the two habitats. The presence of nitrogen-fixing and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria in coal OBD soil offers their key roles of biodegrading polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), speeding mineralization, and ameliorating environmental issues that threaten plant viability.},
}

*Soil Microbiology
India
*Bacteria/classification/genetics
*Coal Mining
*Environmental Monitoring
*Soil Pollutants/analysis
Metagenomics
Soil/chemistry
*Microbial Consortia
Biodegradation, Environmental
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S
Coal

@article {pmid41022942,
year = {2025},
author = {Halifu, S and Deng, X and Yang, L and Qian, L and Yang, L},
title = {Metagenomic analysis of pathogenicity of puccinia xanthii on invasive plant xanthium italicum.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {33530},
pmid = {41022942},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {KX031042//PhD research startup foundation of Shihezi University/ ; KX6107//a program of Shihezi University/ ; },
mesh = {*Plant Diseases/microbiology ; Plant Leaves/microbiology ; *Xanthium/microbiology ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Puccinia/genetics/pathogenicity ; Introduced Species ; Photosynthesis ; China ; },
abstract = {Biological invasion refers to the establishment and proliferation of non-indigenous species in previously unoccupied areas, where they form wild populations. Xanthium italicum, an invasive species in Xinjiang, China, negatively affects local ecosystems, agriculture, and animal husbandry. In this study, we investigated the pathogenicity of Puccinia xanthii on the leaves of X. italicum by exploring the morphological characteristics of the pathogenic fungi, leaf enzyme activity measurement, photosynthesis measurement, and metagenomic sequencing. This study showed that P. xanthii infects the leaves of X. italicum, significantly reducing the activities of lyase, oxidoreductase, and antioxidant enzymes, including phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), superoxide dismutase (SOD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and catalase (CAT), as well as impairing photosynthesis. Furthermore, metagenomic analysis indicated that P. xanthii infection reduced the homogeneity and richness of phyllosphere microorganisms and increased the abundance of P. xanthii in the phyllosphere. Functional analysis also revealed that P. xanthii infection altered the diversity of microbial functions and eventually led to the development of disease symptoms and the demise of leaves through activated oxidative phosphorylation.},
}

*Plant Diseases/microbiology
Plant Leaves/microbiology
*Xanthium/microbiology
*Metagenomics/methods
*Puccinia/genetics/pathogenicity
Introduced Species
Photosynthesis
China

@article {pmid41022706,
year = {2025},
author = {Füssy, Z and Lampe, RH and Arrigo, KR and Barry, K and Brisbin, MM and Brussaard, CPD and Decelle, J and de Vargas, C and DiTullio, GR and Elbourne, LDH and Frischer, ME and Goodstein, DM and Grigoriev, IV and Hayes, RD and Healey, AL and James, CC and Jenkins, JW and Juery, C and Kumar, M and Kustka, AB and Maumus, F and Novák Vanclová, AMG and Oborník, M and Paulsen, IT and Probert, I and Saito, MA and Schmutz, J and Skalický, T and Tec-Campos, D and Tomelka, H and Věchtová, P and Venepally, P and Wilson-Mortier, B and Zengler, K and Zheng, H and Allen, AE},
title = {Genome-resolved biogeography of Phaeocystales, cosmopolitan bloom-forming algae.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {8559},
pmid = {41022706},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {NA15OAR4320071//United States Department of Commerce | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)/ ; NA19NOS4780181//United States Department of Commerce | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)/ ; NSF OCE-1756884//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; 970820//Simons Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Phylogeny ; *Haptophyta/genetics/classification/metabolism ; Phylogeography ; Gene Transfer, Horizontal ; Metagenome ; Oceans and Seas ; Genome ; Genomics ; },
abstract = {Phaeocystales, comprising the genus Phaeocystis and an uncharacterized sister lineage, are nanoplanktonic haptophytes widespread in the global ocean. Several species form mucilaginous colonies and influence key biogeochemical cycles, yet their underlying diversity and ecological strategies remain underexplored. Here, we present new genomic data from 13 strains, including three high-quality reference genomes (N50 > 30 kbp), and integrate previous metagenome-assembled genomes to resolve a robust phylogeny. Divergence timing of P. antarctica aligns with Miocene cooling and Southern Ocean isolation. Genomic traits reveal metabolic flexibility, including mixotrophic nitrogen acquisition in temperate waters and gene expansions linked to polar nutrient adaptation. Concordantly, transcriptomic comparisons between temperate and polar Phaeocystis suggest Southern Ocean populations experience iron and B12 limitation. We also identify signatures of horizontal gene transfer and endogenous giant virus/virophage insertions. Together, these findings highlight Phaeocystales as an ecologically versatile and geographically widespread lineage shaped by evolutionary innovation and adaptation to contrasting environmental stressors.},
}

Phylogeny
*Haptophyta/genetics/classification/metabolism
Phylogeography
Gene Transfer, Horizontal
Metagenome
Oceans and Seas
Genome
Genomics

@article {pmid41021050,
year = {2025},
author = {Kishk, M and Rahmeh, R and Asiri, F and Karam, H and Al-Muhanna, K and Hejji, AB and Shajan, A and Al-Salem, SM},
title = {Substrate-specific microbial community shifts during mesophilic biodegradation of polymers in compost amended soil.},
journal = {Biodegradation},
volume = {36},
number = {5},
pages = {93},
pmid = {41021050},
issn = {1572-9729},
support = {FB187K//Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research/ ; },
mesh = {Biodegradation, Environmental ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Soil/chemistry ; *Polymers/metabolism ; *Composting ; *Bacteria/metabolism/genetics/classification ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Microbiota ; Fungi/metabolism/genetics/classification ; Starch/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Plastics are widely utilized across various industries, but their persistent accumulation in the environment has become a major ecological concern. Biodegradable alternatives offer a potential solution to plastic pollution; however, their degradation behavior under environmentally relevant conditions remains underexplored. This study evaluates the aerobic biodegradation of four polymer materials: starch, commercial thermoplastic starch of polyester origin (TPS1), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), and a co-polyester thermoplastic starch (TPS2), over 180 days at 25 °C in a compost-soil matrix using the testing protocols of ASTM D5988-18 for carbon dioxide (CO2) evolution. Microbial community dynamics were profiled using 16S rRNA and ITS2 amplicon sequencing. TPS2 reached complete mineralization (~ 100%) in 28 days, followed by starch at 71.1% by day 180. TPS1 showed partial mineralization of 38.6%, while LLDPE showed minimal mineralization (21.9%) as expected. Alpha diversity revealed higher bacterial richness in starch treatments and a marked reduction in fungal diversity in TPS1 and LLDPE. Differential abundance testing revealed significant microbial shifts between treatments. Linear discriminant analysis Effect Size (LEfSe) identified polymer-specific microbial biomarkers, including Paenibacillus and Botryotrichum for starch, Acrophialophora and Mycothermus for TPS2, and the Mycobacterium for LLDPE. Subgroup 10 Acidobacteria was uniquely enriched in TPS2-treated samples. These taxa reflect substrate-driven microbial selection. Coupling CO2 mineralization with microbial profiling offers a practical framework to evaluate polymer biodegradability and guide the design of soil-degradable bioplastics. Overall, these findings demonstrate that polymer composition significantly influences microbial community structure and mineralization performance under mesophilic conditions.},
}

Biodegradation, Environmental
*Soil Microbiology
*Soil/chemistry
*Polymers/metabolism
*Composting
*Bacteria/metabolism/genetics/classification
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Microbiota
Fungi/metabolism/genetics/classification
Starch/metabolism

@article {pmid41017911,
year = {2025},
author = {Devarajalu, P and Attri, SV and Kumar, J and Dutta, S and Kabeerdoss, J},
title = {Characterization of gut microbiota signatures in Indian preterm infants with necrotizing enterocolitis: a shotgun metagenomic approach.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1649384},
pmid = {41017911},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics ; Infant, Premature ; India/epidemiology ; Infant, Newborn ; *Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/microbiology/epidemiology ; Feces/microbiology ; *Metagenomics/methods ; Male ; Female ; Enterobacteriaceae/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects preterm infants. Predisposing risk factors for NEC include prematurity, formula feeding, anemia, and sepsis. To date, no studies have investigated the gut microbiota of preterm infants with NEC in India.

METHOD: In the current study, shotgun metagenomic sequencing was performed on fecal samples from premature infants with NEC and healthy preterm infants (n = 24). Sequencing was conducted using the NovaSeq X Plus platform, generating 2 × 150 bp paired-end reads. The infants were matched based on gestational age and postnatal age.

RESULT: The median time to NEC diagnosis was 9 days (range: 1-30 days). Taxonomic analysis revealed a high prevalence of Enterobacteriaceae at the family level, with the genera Klebsiella and Escherichia particularly prominent in neonates with NEC. No statistically significant differences in alpha or beta diversity were observed between stool samples from infants with and without NEC. Linear regression analysis demonstrated that Enterobacteriaceae were significantly more abundant in stool samples from infants with NEC than without NEC (q < 0.05). Differential abundance analysis using Linear Discriminant Analysis Effect Size (LEfSe) identified Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli as enriched in the gut microbiota of preterm infants with NEC. Functional analysis revealed an increase in genes associated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) O-antigen, the type IV secretion system (T4SS), the L-rhamnose pathway, quorum sensing, and iron transporters, including ABC transporters, in stool samples from infants with NEC.

CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of Enterobacteriaceae and enrichment of LPS O-antigen and T4SS genes may be associated with NEC in Indian preterm infants.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics
Infant, Premature
India/epidemiology
Infant, Newborn
*Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/microbiology/epidemiology
Feces/microbiology
*Metagenomics/methods
Male
Female
Enterobacteriaceae/genetics/isolation & purification/classification

@article {pmid41017909,
year = {2025},
author = {Maan, S and Batra, K and Rajendhran, J and Joseph, R and Singh, VK and Chaudhary, D and Sindhu, S and Kadian, V and Kumar, A and Maan, NS and Mor, S},
title = {Exploring viral diversity in diarrheic porcine feces: a metagenomic analysis from an Indian swine farm.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1653342},
pmid = {41017909},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Animals ; Swine ; *Feces/virology ; *Swine Diseases/virology/epidemiology ; *Metagenomics ; India/epidemiology ; *Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Phylogeny ; *Diarrhea/veterinary/virology ; Farms ; Genome, Viral ; Virome ; *Virus Diseases/veterinary/virology ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pig husbandry is a vital sector in India, providing nutritional security and employment for marginalized communities. Pigs are advantageous due to high reproduction rates and fecundity, shorter generation intervals, and efficient feed conversion, requiring minimal housing. However, the swine industry encounters significant disease challenges, particularly viral gastroenteritis, which poses serious public health risks, especially in developing countries. Pigs serve as natural reservoirs and amplifiers for numerous viruses with zoonotic potential, making disease surveillance essential.

MATERIALS: In this study, we conducted a metagenomic analysis of 15 fecal samples from diarrheic pigs on a farm in India, marking the first exploration of the fecal virome diversity in this region. Our next-generation sequencing approach has enabled the unbiased detection of multiple viral agents in the porcine fecal samples, detecting both known and novel viral agents without prior target knowledge.

RESULTS: The key and novel viruses obtained in our study were porcine circovirus, porcine parvovirus 7, porcine mamastrovirus 3, porcine sapelovirus A, and porcine enterovirus G. This work resulted in the generation of full genomes for multiple porcine viruses, including Circovirus, Enterovirus, Sapelovirus, and Mamastrovirus, along with partial genomes of Parvovirus, Picobirnavirus, Porcine stool-associated RNA virus (Porcine Posavirus), Kobuvirus, and Rotavirus, all subjected to phylogenetic analysis.

CONCLUSION: Our survey indicates frequent co-infections with diverse viruses, creating conducive environments for viral recombination and reassortment. Continuous surveillance of viral pathogens in animal populations is essential for understanding the dynamics of both known and novel viruses and for detecting emerging pathogens, along with their zoonotic and pathogenic potential.},
}

Animals
Swine
*Feces/virology
*Swine Diseases/virology/epidemiology
*Metagenomics
India/epidemiology
*Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Phylogeny
*Diarrhea/veterinary/virology
Farms
Genome, Viral
Virome
*Virus Diseases/veterinary/virology
High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing

@article {pmid41015602,
year = {2025},
author = {Nazrin, MRR and Pavan, JS and Gouda, MNR and Kumaranag, KM and Suroshe, SS and Kamil, D and Subramanian, S},
title = {Host-Driven Functional Divergence in Gut Microbiota of Honeybees Apis cerana and Apis mellifera: Implications for Pollination, Nutrition, and Sustainable Apiculture.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {82},
number = {11},
pages = {531},
pmid = {41015602},
issn = {1432-0991},
mesh = {Bees/microbiology/physiology ; Animals ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification/metabolism ; Pollination ; },
abstract = {Honeybees are indispensable in sustaining natural ecosystems and global crop production by pollinating key food crops. Understanding their gut microbiota is crucial for insights into their health, nutrition, and behavior, with broader ecological and agricultural relevance. This study compares the gut microbiota of Apis cerana and Apis mellifera, focusing on bacterial composition, diversity, and functional roles. Using culture-dependent and metagenomic methods, core bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Fructobacillus, Gilliamella apicola, Bartonella apis, and Snodgrassella alvi were identified, linked to carbohydrate and nitrogen metabolism, immune modulation, and polysaccharide degradation. A. mellifera exhibited greater microbial and functional diversity, reflected in higher Shannon (1.22 vs. 1.08) and Simpson (0.675 vs. 0.655) indices. Strong intraspecies correlations and weaker interspecies correlations (Pearson's r = 0.6486) indicated distinct microbial profiles, supported by PCA (75.3% variation) and Adonis test (P = 0.04, R[2] = 0.723). Functional analysis via MG-RAST and UniFrac-based PCoA showed species-specific differences in key metabolic pathways. Enzymatic profiling revealed Fructobacillus fructosus with high invertase activity (7.31 ± 0.30) and Apilactobacillus apinorum with strong pectinolytic activity (4.707 ± 0.36), enhancing honeybee nutrition. These findings have significant implications for pollination efficiency, probiotic development, and sustainable apiculture, ultimately supporting conservation strategies and the resilience of honeybee populations.},
}

Bees/microbiology/physiology
Animals
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification/metabolism
Pollination

@article {pmid41013611,
year = {2025},
author = {Kazarina, A and Sarkar, S and Adams, B and Vogt, B and Rodela, L and Pogranichny, S and Powell, S and Wiechman, H and Heeren, L and Reese, N and Thompson, D and Ran, Q and Hartung, E and Akhunova, A and Akhunov, E and Johnson, L and Jumpponen, A and Lee, STM},
title = {Interaction of plant-derived metabolites and rhizobiome functions enhances drought stress tolerance.},
journal = {Genome biology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {310},
pmid = {41013611},
issn = {1474-760X},
support = {2020-67019-3180//National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; 2238633//National Science Foundation CAREER Award/ ; OIA-1656006//National Science Foundation Award/ ; INV-004430/GATES/Gates Foundation/United States ; },
mesh = {*Rhizosphere ; *Stress, Physiological ; *Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism ; *Droughts ; Soil Microbiology ; *Microbiota ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Plants have evolved alongside microbes, enabling plants to better cope with abiotic and biotic stress. Interactions between plant roots and local soil microbes are critical for environmental adaptation and plant health. Plants actively regulate the microbial community composition in their rhizospheres to recruit specific microorganisms that enhance their fitness in the ecosystem they inhabit. This study builds on prior research suggesting that plants exhibit a "home field advantage" by preferentially recruiting microbes unique to their native environments, likely through mutual recognition and selective recruitment mechanisms.

RESULTS: Using gene- and genome-centric approaches, we assess the functional potential of root-associated microbes and profile their host metabolites to uncover the metabolic outputs potentially regulating host‒microbe interactions in Andropogon gerardii. We find that plants adapted to drier environments experience less stress, producing fewer stress-related metabolites and impacting the recruitment of microbes with genes linked to stress relief pathways. In particular, plant-derived trimethyllysine is highly associated with microbial populations capable of improving nutrient uptake, producing plant growth-promoting compounds, and modulating stress responses.

CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the critical interplay between host exudates and microbial substrate uptake as the primary mechanism of rhizosphere assembly. We demonstrate that plants actively produce metabolites to recruit microbial populations with the functional potential to enhance their ability to thrive in stressful environments. This research provides insights into the mechanisms of plant-microbe communication, rhizosphere recruitment, and the complex interplay of plant-microbe interactions. Furthermore, it highlights promising avenues for manipulating rhizosphere microbiomes to support conservation agriculture when coping with climate change.},
}

*Rhizosphere
*Stress, Physiological
*Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism
*Droughts
Soil Microbiology
*Microbiota

@article {pmid41013568,
year = {2025},
author = {Lei, Y and Zheng, Y and Yan, Y and Zhang, K and Sun, X and Yang, B and Ge, L and Meng, Z and Cao, X and Zhang, X and Yan, X and Xu, Y and Zhang, T and Shi, J and Chen, S and Qiu, Q and Chen, Y and Deng, L and Li, Z and Wang, X and Zhang, K},
title = {Deciphering functional landscapes of rumen microbiota unveils the role of Prevotella bryantii in milk fat synthesis in goats.},
journal = {Genome biology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {311},
pmid = {41013568},
issn = {1474-760X},
support = {2022YFD1300203//the National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2022ZD04014//the Biological Breeding-Major Projects/ ; CARS-39-03//the China Agricultural Research System/ ; 32402785//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024PT-ZCK-71-3//the Key Research and Development Program of Shaanxi Province/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Rumen/microbiology/metabolism ; *Goats/microbiology ; *Milk/metabolism ; *Prevotella/genetics/metabolism ; Female ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Lactation ; *Microbiota ; Lipid Metabolism ; Niacinamide/metabolism ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The rumen microbiome is critical for regulating milk synthesis in dairy livestock, yet the molecular mechanisms linking microbial functions to host lipid metabolism remain poorly understood. While host genetics and microbial composition have been studied, integrative analyses of the rumen-blood-mammary gland axis remain lacking.

RESULTS: Here, we present the goat rumen microbial reference gene catalog and 5514 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from 160 multi-breed rumen samples. Integrating this resource with lactation data from 177 Saanen dairy goats, we identify Prevotella spp. as keystone taxa driving concurrent increases in milk yield and fat percentage. Functional and metabolomic profiling reveals that Prevotella bryantii B14 synthesizes nicotinate, which is converted to nicotinamide in circulation. Using in vitro and in vivo models, we demonstrate that nicotinamide activates the mTORC1 pathway in mammary epithelial cells via GPR109A, which upregulates transcription factors SREBP and PPAR-γ and the downstream lipogenic genes FASN, ACCα, and SCD1 to promote milk fat synthesis. In contrast, the relative deficiency of P. bryantii B14 and the associated reduction in nicotinamide levels in the rumen of poor lactating dairy goats may represent a significant contributor to impaired lactation performance. Additionally, the enhanced hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis activity may also adversely affect their lactation phenotype.

CONCLUSIONS: Our study establishes a causal link between rumen microbial metabolism and mammary lipid synthesis mediated by nicotinamide-mTORC1 signaling and identifies Prevotella abundance as a biomarker for precision breeding. These findings advance the understanding of microbiome-host crosstalk in lactation and provide actionable strategies for enhancing dairy productivity through microbiota-targeted interventions.},
}

Animals
*Rumen/microbiology/metabolism
*Goats/microbiology
*Milk/metabolism
*Prevotella/genetics/metabolism
Female
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Lactation
*Microbiota
Lipid Metabolism
Niacinamide/metabolism

@article {pmid41012703,
year = {2025},
author = {Johnson, ML and Boezen, D and Grum-Grzhimaylo, AA and van der Vlugt, RAA and de Visser, JAGM and Zwart, MP},
title = {Living Together Apart: Quantitative Perspectives on the Costs and Benefits of a Multipartite Genome Organization in Viruses.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012703},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {016.VIDI.171.061/NWO_/Dutch Research Council/Netherlands ; },
mesh = {*Genome, Viral ; *Plant Viruses/genetics/physiology ; Host Specificity ; Metagenomics ; Plant Diseases/virology ; Plants/virology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Multipartite viruses individually package their multiple genome segments into virus particles, necessitating the transmission of multiple virus particles for effective viral spread. This dependence poses a cost in the form of reduced transmission compared to monopartite viruses, which only have a single genome segment. The notable cost of a multipartite genome organization has spurred debate on why multipartite viruses are so common among plant viruses, including a search for benefits associated with this organizational form.

METHODS: We investigated the costs and benefits of multipartite viruses with three approaches. First, we reanalyzed dose-response data to measure the cost of multipartition to between-host transmission for multipartite viruses. Second, we developed a simulation model to explore when the sharing of viral gene products between cells is beneficial. Third, we tested whether multipartite viruses have a broad host range by estimating the host range for plant viruses using metagenomics data.

RESULTS: We find that the observed cost to transmission exceeds theoretical predictions. We predict that a virus gene-product-sharing strategy only confers benefits under limited conditions, suggesting that this strategy may not be common. Our results suggest that multipartite and segmented viruses have broader host ranges than monopartite viruses.

CONCLUSIONS: Our analyses also suggest there is limited evidence for the costs and benefits of a multipartite organization, and we argue that the diversity of multipartite virus-host systems demands pluralistic explanatory frameworks.},
}

*Genome, Viral
*Plant Viruses/genetics/physiology
Host Specificity
Metagenomics
Plant Diseases/virology
Plants/virology

@article {pmid41012679,
year = {2025},
author = {Hernández, LHA and da Silva, FS and da Paz, TYB and Dias, DD and de Barros, BCV and Nunes, BTD and Casseb, LMN and da Silva, SP and da Costa Vasconcelos, PF and Cruz, ACR},
title = {Virome Analysis of Small Mammals from the Brazilian Amazon.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012679},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {3286/2013//Coordenação de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; 88887.636166/2021-00//Coordenação de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; 310295/2021-1//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; 406490/2023-6//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; 314522/2021-2//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; 406360/2022-7//Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Viroses Emergentes e Reemergentes/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Brazil ; *Virome ; *Chiroptera/virology ; *Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Genome, Viral ; Phylogeny ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; *Opossums/virology ; *Rodentia/virology ; Animals, Wild/virology ; *Mammals/virology ; },
abstract = {The municipalities of Peixe-Boi and Santa Bárbara do Pará, both in the Pará State (eastern Amazon), have more than half of their territory deforested. Understanding the viral diversity in wildlife that inhabits the surroundings of human communities contributes to strengthening surveillance. Samples from eleven bats, seven opossums, and eight rodents from the two locations were screened by high-throughput sequencing for virome analysis. Viral reads were assigned into twenty viral families, from which the most abundant was Retroviridae. Host order, tissue type, and season showed a significant effect on viral composition. Five viral genomes of bat ERVs with intact genes were recovered, showing the need to understand their endogenous nature. In addition, a new Buritiense virus (Hantaviridae) strain was also obtained, supporting its circulation in Santa Bárbara do Pará and expanding its genomic information. Together, these findings reinforce the need for continuous surveillance in wild animals, especially in the Amazon region, to anticipate potential threats to public health.},
}

Animals
Brazil
*Virome
*Chiroptera/virology
*Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Genome, Viral
Phylogeny
High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing
*Opossums/virology
*Rodentia/virology
Animals, Wild/virology
*Mammals/virology

@article {pmid41011853,
year = {2025},
author = {Saylam, E and Özden, Ö and Yerlikaya, FH and Sivrikaya, A and Yormaz, S and Arslan, U and Topkafa, M and Maçin, S},
title = {Investigation of Intestinal Microbiota and Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Colorectal Cancer and Detection of Biomarkers.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41011853},
issn = {2076-0817},
support = {22401140//Selçuk University/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Colorectal Neoplasms/microbiology/diagnosis/pathology/metabolism ; Male ; Female ; *Fatty Acids, Volatile/metabolism/analysis ; Middle Aged ; Feces/microbiology/chemistry ; Haptoglobins ; Aged ; Protein Precursors ; Acute-Phase Proteins/analysis ; Cholera Toxin/blood ; *Biomarkers, Tumor ; Carrier Proteins/blood ; Membrane Glycoproteins/blood ; Biomarkers ; Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Adult ; },
abstract = {Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide and a significant global health issue. The human gut microbiota, a complex ecosystem hosting numerous microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, plays a crucial role. Increasing evidence indicates that gut microbiota is involved in CRC pathogenesis. In this study, the gut microbiota profiles, short-chain fatty acids, zonulin, and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein levels of newly diagnosed CRC patients were analyzed along with healthy controls to elucidate the relationship between CRC and the gut microbiota. The study included 16 newly diagnosed CRC patients and 16 healthy individuals. For microbiota analysis, DNA isolation from stool samples was performed using the Quick-DNA™ Fecal/Soil Microbe Miniprep Kit followed by sequencing using the MinION device. Data processing was conducted using Guppy software (version 6.5.7) and the Python (3.12) programming language. ELISA kits from Elabscience were utilized for analyzing LBP and zonulin serum levels. Fecal short-chain fatty acids were analyzed using GC-MS/MS equipped with a flame ionization detector and DB-FFAP column. Microbial alpha diversity, assessed using Shannon and Simpson indices, was found to be lower in CRC patients compared to healthy controls (p = 0.045, 0.017). Significant differences in microbial beta diversity were observed between the two groups (p = 0.004). At the phylum level, Bacteroidota was found to be decreased in CRC patients (p = 0.027). Potential biomarker candidates identified included Enterococcus faecium, Ruminococcus bicirculans, Enterococcus gilvus, Enterococcus casseliflavus, Segatella oris, and Akkermansia muciniphila. Serum zonulin levels were higher in CRC patients (CRC = 70.1 ± 26.14, Control = 53.93 ± 17.33, p = 0.048). There is a significant relationship between gut microbiota and CRC. A multifactorial evaluation of this relationship could shed light on potential biomarker identification and the development of new treatment options for CRC.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Colorectal Neoplasms/microbiology/diagnosis/pathology/metabolism
Male
Female
*Fatty Acids, Volatile/metabolism/analysis
Middle Aged
Feces/microbiology/chemistry
Haptoglobins
Aged
Protein Precursors
Acute-Phase Proteins/analysis
Cholera Toxin/blood
*Biomarkers, Tumor
Carrier Proteins/blood
Membrane Glycoproteins/blood
Biomarkers
Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Adult

@article {pmid41011835,
year = {2025},
author = {Ezzat, A and Abd El Wahed, A and Ceruti, A and El Asely, AM and Khalifa, MS and Winters, AD and Truyen, U and Shaheen, AA and Faisal, M},
title = {Exploring the Virome of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Using Metagenomic Analysis.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41011835},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Animals ; *Cichlids/virology ; *Virome/genetics ; *Metagenomics/methods ; Phylogeny ; *Fish Diseases/virology ; *Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Egypt ; DNA Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Metagenome ; },
abstract = {Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is an indispensable source of high-quality protein worldwide. Along with the exponential expansion of tilapia aquaculture, several novel pathogenic viruses have emerged, and some cause significant economic losses. Unfortunately, there is scarce information on the biology and epidemiology of these viruses. This exploratory metagenomic study used Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) sequencing to profile the virome compositions of both wild and farmed Nile tilapia across five regions in Egypt. The Nile tilapia virome was dominated by two double-stranded DNA bacteriophages, Muvirus mu and M. sfmu, which constituted 79.8% of the detected sequences. Eukaryotic viruses, including members of the families Amnoonviridae, Peribunyaviridae, and Baculoviridae, were also identified. Two giant DNA viruses known to infect Acanthamoeba spp., Mollivirus sp., and Pandoravirus sp. were identified in the spleen virome of tilapia from a single sampling site. The diversity analysis showed no significant differences among tissue types or sampling sites. Phylogenetic analyses were performed on a single virus detected of potential pathogenicity, an amnoonvirus. The analyses demonstrated that the detected virus is a member of the family Amnoonviridae and placed it alongside members of the Tilapinevirus genus. The virus, however, was distinct from the other two members in the genus: T. tilapae and T. poikilos. This study underscores the usefulness of ONT in providing a foundational understanding of the Nile tilapia virome.},
}

Animals
*Cichlids/virology
*Virome/genetics
*Metagenomics/methods
Phylogeny
*Fish Diseases/virology
*Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Egypt
DNA Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Metagenome

@article {pmid41010985,
year = {2025},
author = {Petrelli, F and Ghidini, A and Dottorini, L and Ghidini, M and Zaniboni, A and Tomasello, G},
title = {Clinical Evidence for Microbiome-Based Strategies in Cancer Immunotherapy: A State-of-the-Art Review.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {61},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41010985},
issn = {1648-9144},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/immunology ; *Immunotherapy/methods ; *Neoplasms/therapy ; Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; Probiotics/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {The gut microbiome has emerged as a critical determinant of immune-checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) efficacy. A narrative review of 95 clinical studies (2015-2025) shows that patients with greater gut microbial diversity and relative enrichment of commensals such as Akkermansia, Ruminococcus, and other short-chain fatty acid producers experience longer progression-free and overall survival, particularly in melanoma and non-small-cell lung cancer. Broad-spectrum antibiotics given within 30 days of ICI initiation and over-the-counter mixed probiotics consistently correlate with poorer outcomes. Early phase I/II trials of responder-derived fecal microbiota transplantation in ICI-refractory melanoma achieved objective response rates of 20-40%, while pilot high-fiber or plant-forward dietary interventions improved immunologic surrogates such as CD8[+] tumor infiltration. Machine-learning classifiers that integrate 16S or metagenomic profiles predict ICI response with an area under the ROC curve of 0.83-0.92. Methodological heterogeneity across sampling, sequencing, and clinical endpoints remains a barrier, underscoring the need for standardization and larger, well-powered trials.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/immunology
*Immunotherapy/methods
*Neoplasms/therapy
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/therapeutic use
Probiotics/therapeutic use

@article {pmid41010544,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, Y and Kuang, W and Li, M and Wang, Z and Liu, Y and Zhao, M and Huan, H and Yang, Y},
title = {Cholesterol-Lowering Mechanism of Lactobacillus Bile Salt Hydrolase Through Regulation of Bifidobacterium pseudolongum in the Gut Microbiota.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {17},
number = {18},
pages = {},
pmid = {41010544},
issn = {2072-6643},
support = {2024YFF0619500; no. BK20231280; CX(22)2019//National Key Research and Development Program of China; Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu; Jiangsu Agriculture Science and Technology Innovation Fund/ ; },
mesh = {*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; Animals ; *Amidohydrolases/metabolism/pharmacology ; *Cholesterol/blood ; Mice ; Male ; *Bifidobacterium/growth & development/drug effects/metabolism ; *Lactobacillus/enzymology ; *Hypercholesterolemia/blood/microbiology ; Cholesterol 7-alpha-Hydroxylase/metabolism ; Fibroblast Growth Factors/metabolism ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; *Anticholesteremic Agents/pharmacology ; Bile Acids and Salts/metabolism ; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear/metabolism ; Probiotics ; },
abstract = {Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) represent a major global health burden, and cholesterol reduction is a key strategy for their prevention and management. This study investigated the mechanism by which bile salt hydrolase (BSH) from Lactobacilli reduces cholesterol levels by modulating the growth of Bifidobacterium pseudolongum. Methods: The BSH-recombinant strain YB334 was administered to high-cholesterol-diet mice, and the cholesterol-lowering function of the strain was evaluated by assessing serum cholesterol parameters, including total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Metagenomic sequencing was used to analyze the gut microbiota, leading to the screening and acquisition of the "responsive" strains affected by BSH. Subsequent investigations were conducted into their cholesterol-lowering effects and mechanisms of action. Results: Oral administration of the BSH-recombinant strain YB334 can effectively reduce serum cholesterol levels in hypercholesterolemic mice while simultaneously leading to a significant increase in the abundance of B. pseudolongum within the gut microbiota. In vitro experiments indicated that this increased abundance might be closely associated with the strain's high tolerance to CA, the catalytic product of the BSH enzyme. The BPL-4 strain, obtained through screening, demonstrated cholesterol-lowering efficacy. Mechanistically, BPL-4 altered bile acid pool composition and modulated the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) signaling axis: it suppressed ileal FXR-fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF15) expression, thereby de-repressing hepatic cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) and accelerating cholesterol catabolism into bile acids. Conclusions: This study provides the first evidence that BSH from lactobacilli can shape the signature gut microbiota by modulating bile acid metabolism via the FXR-CYP7A1 axis, thereby demonstrating a mechanism for its cholesterol-lowering effects.},
}

*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
Animals
*Amidohydrolases/metabolism/pharmacology
*Cholesterol/blood
Mice
Male
*Bifidobacterium/growth & development/drug effects/metabolism
*Lactobacillus/enzymology
*Hypercholesterolemia/blood/microbiology
Cholesterol 7-alpha-Hydroxylase/metabolism
Fibroblast Growth Factors/metabolism
Mice, Inbred C57BL
*Anticholesteremic Agents/pharmacology
Bile Acids and Salts/metabolism
Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear/metabolism
Probiotics

@article {pmid41009770,
year = {2025},
author = {Pita-Galeana, MA and Ruhle, M and López-Vázquez, L and de Anda-Jáuregui, G and Hernández-Lemus, E},
title = {Computational Metagenomics: State of the Art.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {18},
pages = {},
pmid = {41009770},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {*Metagenomics/methods ; Humans ; *Microbiota/genetics ; *Computational Biology/methods ; Machine Learning ; Metagenome ; },
abstract = {Computational metagenomics has revolutionized our understanding of the human microbiome, enabling the characterization of microbial diversity, the prediction of functional capabilities, and the identification of associations with human health outcomes. This review provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of state-of-the-art computational approaches in metagenomics, alongside widely used methods and tools employed in amplicon-based metagenomics. It is intended as an introductory resource for new researchers, outlining key methodologies, challenges, and future directions in the field. We discuss recent advances in bioinformatics pipelines, machine learning (ML) models, and integrative frameworks that are transforming our understanding of the microbiome's role in health and disease. By addressing current limitations and proposing innovative solutions, this review aims to outline a roadmap for future research and clinical translation in computational metagenomics.},
}

*Metagenomics/methods
Humans
*Microbiota/genetics
*Computational Biology/methods
Machine Learning
Metagenome

@article {pmid41007466,
year = {2025},
author = {Godoy-Vitorino, F},
title = {Strengthening Integrative Microbiome Research Through Regional Leadership.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {22},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41007466},
issn = {1660-4601},
support = {1P20GM156713-01/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; P20 GM103475/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; 2U54MD007600//Center for Collaborative Research in Minority Health and Health Disparities/ ; },
mesh = {*Microbiota ; Puerto Rico ; Leadership ; Humans ; Metagenomics ; Research/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {Microbiome science has revolutionized modern biology, shifting the focus from pathogens to the essential roles of beneficial microbes in health, metabolism, and ecosystems. Advances in genomic technologies like metagenomics have rapidly expanded our understanding of microbial diversity and function. Despite this progress, global microbiome research remains concentrated in high-resource regions, limiting diverse perspectives and opportunities in places like the Caribbean. This communication discusses the establishment of the first Center for Microbiome Sciences in Puerto Rico, which addresses this gap by providing local researchers with access to advanced tools, training, and infrastructure through broader collaboration. Novelty, services, and ideas on the integration of activities among local centers for the scientific improvement of the region are addressed. Additionally, how the center is poised to contribute to improving public and environmental health is also highlighted.},
}

*Microbiota
Puerto Rico
Leadership
Humans
Metagenomics
Research/organization & administration

@article {pmid41006795,
year = {2025},
author = {Aoyagi, LN and Wang, Y and Ohbayashi, T and Hirono, Y and Hayatsu, M and Tago, K},
title = {Diversity and characterization of the ammonia-oxidizing bacteria responsible for nitrification in tea field soils.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {33221},
pmid = {41006795},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {JPNP18016//New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)/ ; 16K14874//MEXT KAKENHI/ ; 19H01156//MEXT KAKENHI/ ; 28004A//Science and Technology Research Promotion Program for Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, and Food Industry/ ; },
mesh = {*Nitrification ; *Ammonia/metabolism ; *Soil Microbiology ; Oxidation-Reduction ; *Bacteria/metabolism/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Soil/chemistry ; Archaea/metabolism/genetics/classification ; Phylogeny ; *Tea/microbiology ; Biodiversity ; },
abstract = {Ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB), ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA), and comammox Nitrospira have been considered to coexist in acidic soils, oxidizing ammonia within their respective niches. However, their relative contributions to soil nitrification, as well as their properties and ecological roles in acidic soils, remain poorly understood. This study focused on AOB in acidic tea field soils, investigating their ecology and physiology through metagenomic analysis and the genomic and physiological characterization of AOB isolates. β-AOB were significantly more abundant than γ-AOB and AOA in soil layers with the highest potential for nitrification activity, indicating that β-AOB play a key role in acidic tea soil. Diversity analysis of this dominant group identified Nitrosospira as the major genus present in tea fields, and four pure strains representing some of the main operational taxonomic units in this environment were isolated. Physiological and genetic characterization of these isolates revealed some distinct traits compared to other species of the genus and closely related taxa, suggesting adaptations that may contribute to niche differentiation and survival in acidic soils. These findings provide new insights into the ecological role of β-AOB in acidic soils and may inform strategies to manage soil nitrification and reduce nitrogen loss in agricultural ecosystems.},
}

*Nitrification
*Ammonia/metabolism
*Soil Microbiology
Oxidation-Reduction
*Bacteria/metabolism/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Soil/chemistry
Archaea/metabolism/genetics/classification
Phylogeny
*Tea/microbiology
Biodiversity

@article {pmid41006325,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, L and Zhou, DD and Feng, J and Liao, ZJ and Shu, XL and Yang, RM and Gao, YC and Zhou, HH and Zhang, W and Zou, Y and Liu, R},
title = {Intestinal fungal signatures and their impact on immune checkpoint inhibitor efficacy: a multi-cohort meta-analysis.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {188},
pmid = {41006325},
issn = {2055-5008},
support = {2021YFA1301200//the National Key Research and Development Program/ ; No. 82474022, 31801121, 82373961//the National Scientific Foundation of China/ ; 2022RC1022//the Hunan Provincial Science and Technology Innovation Plan Project/ ; },
mesh = {*Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; *Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Animals ; Mice ; Feces/microbiology ; Cohort Studies ; *Neoplasms/drug therapy/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Gut microbiota influence on the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), but research on fungi-an essential component of the microbiome-has been limited. This multi-cohort meta-analysis of 976 fecal metagenomes across 8 cohorts, representing melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and renal cell carcinoma (RCC), identified fungal species associated with ICI efficacy. In melanoma, Rhizophagus irregularis and Debaryomyces hansenii were correlated with poor responses, whereas Aspergillus avenaceus was associated with great efficacy. In NSCLC, an increased abundance of Aspergillus pseudonomiae was associated with a favorable prognosis. Stronger bacterial-fungal interactions were observed in responders. The presence of certain fungi in fungal enterotypes, like Aspergillus or Saccharomyces, was linked to better efficacy to ICIs. Mouse models revealed Debaryomyces hansenii impaired ICI efficacy by reducing CD8+ T cells. Our findings highlight specific fungal signatures that may inform strategies to enhance ICI efficacy and encourage further research on microbial impacts on treatment outcomes.},
}

*Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
*Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Animals
Mice
Feces/microbiology
Cohort Studies
*Neoplasms/drug therapy/microbiology

@article {pmid41005935,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, W and Xin, X and Cao, X},
title = {Impacts of trace ofloxacin on autotrophic denitrification process driven by pyrite/sulfur: Performance, microbial community evolution and metagenomic analysis.},
journal = {Journal of environmental sciences (China)},
volume = {159},
number = {},
pages = {775-784},
doi = {10.1016/j.jes.2025.03.062},
pmid = {41005935},
issn = {1001-0742},
mesh = {*Denitrification/drug effects ; Autotrophic Processes ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/toxicity/analysis ; Sulfides/chemistry ; *Ofloxacin/toxicity/analysis ; Sulfur/chemistry ; Iron/chemistry ; Metagenomics ; *Microbiota/drug effects ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/toxicity ; Bioreactors ; },
abstract = {In this work, ofloxacin (OFL), a kind of frequently detected antibiotic in groundwater, was selected to explore its impact (at ng/L-µg/L-level) on denitrification performance in an autotrophic denitrification system driven by pyrite/sulfur (FeS2/S[0]). Results showed that OFL restrained nitrate removal efficiency, and the inhibition degree was positively related to the concentration of OFL. After being exposed to increased OFL (200 ng/L-100 µg/L) for 69 days, higher inhibition of electron transport activity (ETSA), enzyme activities of nitrate reductase (NAR), and nitrite reductase (NIR) were acquired. Meanwhile, the extracellular protein (PN) content of sludge samples was remarkably stimulated by OFL to resist the augmented toxicity. OFL contributed to increased microbial diversity and sulfur/sulfide oxidation functional genes in ng/L-level bioreactors, whereas led to a decline in µg/L level experiments. With OFL at concentrations of 200 ng/L and 100 µg/L, the whole expression of 10 key denitrification functional genes was depressed, and the higher the OFL concentration, the lower the expression level. However, no significant proliferation of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) either in 200 ng/L-OFL or 100 µg/L-OFL groups was observed. Two-factor correlation analysis results indicated that Thiobacillus, Anaerolineae, Anaerolineales, and Nitrospirae might be the main hosts of existing ARGs in this system.},
}

*Denitrification/drug effects
Autotrophic Processes
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/toxicity/analysis
Sulfides/chemistry
*Ofloxacin/toxicity/analysis
Sulfur/chemistry
Iron/chemistry
Metagenomics
*Microbiota/drug effects
Anti-Bacterial Agents/toxicity
Bioreactors

@article {pmid41005808,
year = {2025},
author = {Purcell, M and Ackland, J and Staples, KJ and Freeman, A and Wilkinson, TMA},
title = {The respiratory tract virome: unravelling the role of viral dark matter in respiratory health and disease.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {34},
number = {177},
pages = {},
pmid = {41005808},
issn = {1600-0617},
mesh = {Humans ; *Virome ; *Viruses/genetics/pathogenicity/immunology ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; *Microbiota ; *Respiratory System/virology ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/virology ; Metagenomics ; *Respiratory Tract Diseases/virology/diagnosis ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The human respiratory tract virome is an underexplored component of the microbiome that includes eukaryotic viruses, bacteriophages and archaeal viruses. The respiratory virome represents a dynamic and heterogeneous ecosystem, shaped by host, environmental and microbial factors. Advances in metagenomic sequencing have expanded our understanding of virome composition, dynamics and potential roles in health and disease. Despite increasing interest, virome research remains fragmented and often secondary to bacteriome studies. Challenges in study design, genomic characterisation and interpretation limit consistent conclusions. This review summarises current knowledge of the respiratory virome in health and across acute and chronic respiratory diseases, including acute respiratory infection, asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis. While each condition is distinct, they share features of airway inflammation and immune dysregulation where the virome may act as a modifier or marker. Across these syndromes, emerging evidence highlights the consistent detection of respiratory viruses including potential commensals, such as Anelloviridae, and the often-overlooked role of bacteriophages. We also discuss the concept of viral dark matter, where large proportions of sequence data remain unclassified, potentially representing novel viral taxa. Technical and conceptual challenges are evaluated, alongside recent methodological innovations such as meta-transcriptomics and viral enrichment protocols. We outline how standardised, multi-omic and longitudinal approaches are urgently needed to clarify the virome's functional role, interactions with immunity and microbial communities and its utility as a biomarker or therapeutic target.},
}

Humans
*Virome
*Viruses/genetics/pathogenicity/immunology
Host-Pathogen Interactions
*Microbiota
*Respiratory System/virology
*Respiratory Tract Infections/virology
Metagenomics
*Respiratory Tract Diseases/virology/diagnosis
Animals

@article {pmid40999698,
year = {2025},
author = {Elliott, L and Coissac, E},
title = {Can Amplicon Sequencing Be Replaced by Metagenomics for Biodiversity Inventories?.},
journal = {Molecular ecology resources},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70047},
doi = {10.1111/1755-0998.70047},
pmid = {40999698},
issn = {1755-0998},
support = {819192//European Research Council (ERC)/ ; },
}

@article {pmid40998902,
year = {2025},
author = {Satpathy, SS and Pradhan, D},
title = {Unveiling community structure, antimicrobial resistance, and virulence factor of a wastewater sample of dairy farm located in mayurbhanj, odisha, India.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {32919},
pmid = {40998902},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Wastewater/microbiology ; India ; *Virulence Factors/genetics ; *Dairying ; *Bacteria/genetics/drug effects/pathogenicity/isolation & purification ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; Farms ; Animals ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Microbiota ; Water Microbiology ; },
abstract = {Nutrient-rich dairy wastewater (DWW) is an excellent growing medium for microbes. Their antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes and pathogenic roles remain in the DWW and even multiply in environmental settings, in contrast to many chemical toxins that break down over time. Necessary steps and standardized techniques for tracking AMR in DWW samples are desperately needed. In this context, a DWW sample was evaluated to assess the necessity of remediation and develop a suitable treatment technique. Physicochemical characterizations of the sample showed an elevated level of pollutants like proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that led to the water pollution and microbial diversity (e.g., 36 phyla, 72 classes, 111 orders, 168 families, 275 genera, and 347 species). The Shannon and Simpson indices showed that the DWW sample had a high level of microbial diversity of a few species. The gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed the functional categories with 2795 genes belonging to 11 virulence categories. Most of the identified AMR genes belonged to beta-lactamase, and the majority of them were linked to Escherichia coli, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter cloacae, etc. The major bacterial phyla carrying AMR genes included Firmicutes (36%), Proteobacteria (31%), Actinobacteria (21%), and Bacteroidetes (5%).},
}

*Wastewater/microbiology
India
*Virulence Factors/genetics
*Dairying
*Bacteria/genetics/drug effects/pathogenicity/isolation & purification
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics
Farms
Animals
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Microbiota
Water Microbiology

@article {pmid40996787,
year = {2025},
author = {Bergner, L and Catalano, S and Nichols, J and Da Silva Felipe, A and Cao, X and Mair, D and Nankasi, A and Arinaitwe, M and Mubangizi, A and Pybus, OG and Standley, C and Faust, CL and Raghwani, J},
title = {Quantifying viral load and characterizing virus diversity in wildlife samples with target enrichment sequencing.},
journal = {Microbial genomics},
volume = {11},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/mgen.0.001513},
pmid = {40996787},
issn = {2057-5858},
mesh = {Animals ; *Viral Load ; *Metagenomics/methods ; Feces/virology ; *Animals, Wild/virology ; Genome, Viral ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; *Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; RNA Viruses/genetics/isolation & purification ; DNA Viruses/genetics/isolation & purification ; Rodentia/virology ; },
abstract = {Metagenomics is a powerful tool for characterizing viruses, with broad applications across diverse disciplines, from understanding the ecology and evolutionary history of viruses to identifying causative agents of emerging outbreaks with unknown aetiology. Additionally, metagenomic data contain valuable information about the amount of virus present within samples (i.e. viral load), which can provide insights into transmission potential, time since infection and, in turn, epidemic trajectories. However, before we can effectively use metagenomic data to inform transmission, we need to understand the general relationship between sequencing outputs and viral load. Here, using a commercially available probe panel targeting a wide diversity of viruses, we investigated the detection and recovery of virus genomes by spiking known concentrations of DNA and RNA viruses into wild rodent faecal samples. In total, 15 experimental replicates were sequenced with target enrichment sequencing and compared to shotgun sequencing of the same background samples. Target-enriched sequencing recovered all spike-in viruses at every concentration (10[2], 10[3] and 10[5]±1 log genome copies) and showed a log-linear relationship between spike-in concentration and mean read depth. Background viruses (including Kobuvirus and Cardiovirus) were recovered consistently across all biological and technical replicates and by shotgun sequencing, but genome coverage was variable between virus genera and likely reflected the composition of the target enrichment probe panel. Overall, our study highlights the strengths and weaknesses of using commercially available panels to quantify and characterize wildlife viromes and underscores the importance of probe panel design for accurately interpreting coverage and read depth. To advance the use of metagenomics for understanding virus transmission, further research will be needed to elucidate how sequencing strategy (e.g. library depth and pooling), virome composition and probe design influence viral read counts and genome coverage.},
}

Animals
*Viral Load
*Metagenomics/methods
Feces/virology
*Animals, Wild/virology
Genome, Viral
High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods
*Viruses/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
RNA Viruses/genetics/isolation & purification
DNA Viruses/genetics/isolation & purification
Rodentia/virology

@article {pmid40996703,
year = {2025},
author = {Sierra, MA and Ryon, K and Arikatla, MR and Elshafey, R and Bhaskar, H and Proszynski, J and Bhattacharya, C and Shaaban, H and Danko, DC and Ambrose, P and Spaulding, SA and Zambrano, MM and Consortium, TMD and Mason, CE},
title = {The Microbe Directory: a centralized database for biological interpretation of microbiome data.},
journal = {Database : the journal of biological databases and curation},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40996703},
issn = {1758-0463},
support = {U01DA053941/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; U54AG089334/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01AI151059/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; 80NSSC24K0728/NASA/NASA/United States ; 80NSSC24K1052/NASA/NASA/United States ; //WorldQuant Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Microbiota/genetics ; Humans ; *Databases, Genetic ; Data Curation ; Metadata ; Animals ; Metagenomics ; },
abstract = {The Microbe Directory (TMD) is a centralized database of metadata for microbes from all domains that helps with the biological interpretation of metagenomic data. The database comprises phenotypical and ecological traits of microorganisms, which have been verified by independent manual annotations. This effort has been possible by the help of a community of volunteer students worldwide who were trained in manual curation of microbiology data. To summarize this information, we have built an interactive browser that makes the database accessible to everyone, including non-bioinformaticians. We used the TMD data to analyse microbiome samples from different projects such as MetaSUB, TARA Oceans, Human Microbiome Project, and Sponge Microbiome Project, showcasing the utility of TMD. Furthermore, we compare our microbial annotations with annotations collected by artificial intelligence (AI) and demonstrate that despite the high speed of AI in reviewing and collecting microbial data, annotation requires domain knowledge and therefore manual curation. Collectively, TMD provides a unique source of information that can help to interpret microbiome data and uncover biological associations. Database URL: www.themicrobedirectory.com/.},
}

*Microbiota/genetics
Humans
*Databases, Genetic
Data Curation
Metadata
Animals
Metagenomics

@article {pmid40995781,
year = {2025},
author = {Hensen, T and Thiele, I},
title = {Metabolic modeling links gut microbiota to metabolic markers of Parkinson's disease.},
journal = {Gut microbes},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2554195},
pmid = {40995781},
issn = {1949-0984},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; *Parkinson Disease/microbiology/metabolism/blood ; Male ; Female ; Biomarkers/blood/metabolism ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; *Bacteria/classification/metabolism/genetics/isolation & purification ; Metagenomics ; Leucine/metabolism/blood ; },
abstract = {Human gut microbiota have been implicated in metabolic disruptions in Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the underlying mechanisms linking gut microbiota to these disease-related metabolic changes remain largely unknown. In this study, we applied constraint-based metabolic modeling to identify potential causal links between compositional shifts in gut microbiota in PD and metabolic blood markers of PD. We personalized in silico whole-body metabolic models with gut metagenomics of 435 PD patients and 219 healthy controls and profiled in silico gut microbiome influences on 116 blood metabolites with replicated associations with PD diagnosis. Our analysis identified a reduced capacity of the PD host-microbiome co-metabolism to produce L-leucine and leucylleucine in blood. These metabolic predictions were traced back to lower L-leucine production of Roseburia intestinalis and higher L-leucine consumption by Methanobrevibacter smithii in PD microbiomes. We further predicted reduced host-microbiome production capacities of butyrate, myristic acid, and pantothenate in the blood of PD patients and linked these associations to reduced relative abundances of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. Finally, lower nicotinic acid production capacities were predicted in PD patients, which were associated with increased relative abundances and increased nicotinic acid consumption of Ruthenibacterium lactatiformans in PD. In conclusion, we predicted that the gut microbiome can drive altered blood levels of six metabolites in PD and identified candidate microbial species that may influence these metabolic alterations. These findings may facilitate the development of novel therapies targeting the gut-brain axis in PD.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
*Parkinson Disease/microbiology/metabolism/blood
Male
Female
Biomarkers/blood/metabolism
Middle Aged
Aged
*Bacteria/classification/metabolism/genetics/isolation & purification
Metagenomics
Leucine/metabolism/blood

@article {pmid40995227,
year = {2025},
author = {Lee, SH and Kim, EB and Park, SC and Nam, SJ and Cho, H and Jeon, HJ and Lee, SP},
title = {Evaluation of the gastric microbiota based on body mass index using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1651316},
pmid = {40995227},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Body Mass Index ; Female ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Obesity/microbiology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics ; Adult ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics/chemistry ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/genetics ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; *Stomach/microbiology ; Overweight/microbiology ; Metagenomics ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Obesity is a multifactorial condition influenced by various factors, including the gut microbiota. However, the relationship between the gastric microbiota and obesity remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the composition of gastric microbiota, excluding Helicobacter pylori, in relation to body mass index (BMI) and metabolic indicators.

METHODS: Thirty participants undergoing health checkups were classified into three groups-normal weight (BMI 18.5-22.9), overweight (BMI 23.0-24.9), and obese (BMI ≥25.0)-with ten individuals per group. Those with H. pylori infection, atrophic gastritis, or intestinal metaplasia were excluded. Gastric microbiota from four antral biopsies per subject were analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing and functional profiling by metagenomic prediction.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Alpha diversity (Gini-Simpson index) was significantly lower in the combined overweight/obese group than that in the normal group (P=0.049). Beta diversity analysis revealed clear group separation (Bray-Curtis, P=0.005; unweighted UniFrac, P=0.004). Significant species differences between the groups were observed; specifically, the abundances of Muribaculum gordoncarteri, Turicibacter bilis, and Duncaniella dubosii, were significantly reduced in the overweight/obese group. Functional predictions showed differential enrichment of pathways related to fatty acid, amino acid, vitamin, and carbohydrate metabolism across BMI categories. These findings suggest that alterations in the gastric microbiota may be linked to obesity and metabolic dysregulation.},
}

Humans
*RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Body Mass Index
Female
Male
Middle Aged
Obesity/microbiology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics
Adult
DNA, Bacterial/genetics/chemistry
Sequence Analysis, DNA
DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/genetics
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
*Stomach/microbiology
Overweight/microbiology
Metagenomics
Phylogeny

@article {pmid40993967,
year = {2025},
author = {Bibbò, S and Ahlström, G and Pes, GM and Graham, DY and Engstrand, L and Merola, E and Dore, MP},
title = {Resilience of the Gut Microbiome to Short Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy With or Without High-Dosage L. reuteri in H. pylori-Infected Adults.},
journal = {Helicobacter},
volume = {30},
number = {5},
pages = {e70064},
pmid = {40993967},
issn = {1523-5378},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; *Limosilactobacillus reuteri/physiology/growth & development ; *Helicobacter Infections/drug therapy/microbiology ; *Proton Pump Inhibitors/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; Female ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Double-Blind Method ; Adult ; Pantoprazole/therapeutic use ; *Probiotics/administration & dosage ; Helicobacter pylori/drug effects ; Feces/microbiology ; Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy typically consists of a combination of antibiotics and an antisecretory drug. Probiotics may be added to reduce side effects and possibly improve outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a double-blind, randomized trial of pantoprazole plus either Lactobacillus reuteri (Gastrus) (high dose) or a matching placebo to assess the impact on the gut microbiota of H. pylori-positive adults. Fecal samples were collected at baseline and after one and 2 months for shotgun metagenomic sequencing.

RESULTS: A total of 26 patients were recruited and completed therapy. L. reuteri was only detected in the group that received supplemental L. reuteri and only at the 1-month post-treatment interval. L. reuteri failed to colonize for long-term the gut, and challenge with L. reuteri failed to alter alpha-diversity (Shannon index) or beta-diversity (community ordination) metrics at any time point. Machine learning (PLS-DA) analysis identified the presence of L. reuteri as the most distinguishing feature at 1 month. No other taxa showed a significant difference between groups.

CONCLUSION: Short-term administration of pantoprazole and L. reuteri had no lasting effects on gut microbial composition. While L. reuteri transiently bloomed during supplementation, the overall gut microbiota showed resilience, returning to baseline shortly after therapy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: Identifier: NCT03404440.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
*Limosilactobacillus reuteri/physiology/growth & development
*Helicobacter Infections/drug therapy/microbiology
*Proton Pump Inhibitors/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
Female
Male
Middle Aged
Double-Blind Method
Adult
Pantoprazole/therapeutic use
*Probiotics/administration & dosage
Helicobacter pylori/drug effects
Feces/microbiology
Aged

@article {pmid40993109,
year = {2025},
author = {Zeng, Y and Zhong, X and Chai, L and Zhang, X and Lu, Z and Liu, G and Tu, T and Lu, L and Zhang, R and Yu, H and Zhang, S and Wang, S and Shen, C and Shi, J and Xu, Z},
title = {Prokaryotic evolution shapes specialized communities in long term engineered pit mud ecosystem.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {186},
pmid = {40993109},
issn = {2055-5008},
support = {32201993//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 31901658//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024T170375//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Bacteria/classification/genetics/metabolism/isolation & purification ; *Microbial Consortia ; Ecosystem ; *Microbiota ; *Archaea/classification/genetics/metabolism ; Metagenomics ; Fermentation ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {Elucidating the temporal dynamics of complex microbial consortia is crucial for engineering robust microbiome. We investigated prokaryotic evolution in pit mud, a centuries-old engineered environment used in Chinese liquor fermentation. Metagenomic analysis of 120 pit mud samples across different ages revealed a transition from generalist-dominated to specialist-enriched communities. This shift was characterized by decreased hydrolytic potential and increased organic acid metabolism, with key taxonomic changes including declines in Proteiniphilum and Petrimonas, and increases in Methanobacterium and Caproicibacter. The mature specialist community accelerates the short-chain organic acids turnover through syntrophic fatty acid oxidation, methanogenesis, and carbon chain elongation, maintaining ecosystem stability. While nutrient availability primarily shapes early stages community interactions, environmental stress becomes a dominant factor in mature systems. These insights into long-term prokaryotic adaptation provide a foundation for the rational design of resilient, functionally optimized microbial communities for biotechnological applications.},
}

*Bacteria/classification/genetics/metabolism/isolation & purification
*Microbial Consortia
Ecosystem
*Microbiota
*Archaea/classification/genetics/metabolism
Metagenomics
Fermentation
Phylogeny

@article {pmid40989903,
year = {2025},
author = {Malygina, EV and Potapova, NA and Imidoeva, NA and Vavilina, TN and Belyshenko, AY and Morgunova, MM and Dmitrieva, ME and Shelkovnikova, VN and Vlasova, AA and Lipatova, OE and Zhilenkov, VM and Batalova, AA and Stoyanova, EE and Axenov-Gribanov, DV},
title = {Microbial communities inhabiting the surface and gleba of white (Tuber magnatum) and black (Tuber macrosporum) truffles from Russia.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {e20037},
pmid = {40989903},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {Russia ; *Microbiota ; *Ascomycota/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Symbiosis ; Soil Microbiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Mycorrhizae/genetics ; },
abstract = {The complex symbiotic relationships between truffles and their microbiota, coupled with their obligate mycorrhizal lifestyle, present significant challenges for obtaining axenic mycelium and achieving controlled cultivation. This study aimed to characterize the microbial communities within the surface and gleba of truffle ascomata using 16S and 18S rRNA gene sequencing and identify the taxonomic composition and ecological roles of these microbiota. Specimens of Tuber magnatum (white truffle) and Tuber macrosporum (smooth black truffle) were collected, with T. magnatum representing the first documented discovery of this species in Russia. Metabarcoding profiling identified both species-specific and shared microbial taxa, with the yeast-like fungus Geotrichum spp. emerging as a core symbiont in both truffle species. Its consistent detection in surface and gleba tissues suggests a critical role in mycorrhizal establishment and spore dispersal, potentially mediated by sulfur volatiles that attract mycophagous fauna. In T. magnatum, the bacterial community was dominated by Proteobacteria, particularly Alphaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria, with the nitrogen-fixing genus Bradyrhizobium being especially abundant. The truffle microbiota predominantly comprised soil-derived microorganisms (e.g., nitrogen-fixing Rhizobiaceae spp., phenol-degrading Mycoplana spp.) and plant-associated symbionts (e.g., ectomycorrhizal Sebacina spp.), implicating these communities in nutrient cycling, xenobiotic degradation, and host plant interactions. By elucidating the taxonomic and functional profiles of truffle-associated microbiota, this study provides foundational insights into their ecological contributions. Chemical differences align with tissue-specific microbial communities, suggesting microenvironmental specialization in bioactive compound synthesis. These findings advance efforts to replicate critical symbiotic interactions in vitro, a prerequisite for developing sustainable cultivation protocols for T. magnatum and T. macrosporum under controlled conditions.},
}

Russia
*Microbiota
*Ascomycota/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Symbiosis
Soil Microbiology
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
Phylogeny
Mycorrhizae/genetics

@article {pmid40988537,
year = {2025},
author = {Tsamadou, V and Ohlsson, JA and Schnürer, A},
title = {Converge or Diverge? Exploring the Fate of Taxonomically Different Anaerobic Digestion Communities Under Uniform Growth Conditions.},
journal = {Microbial biotechnology},
volume = {18},
number = {9},
pages = {e70233},
pmid = {40988537},
issn = {1751-7915},
support = {310432//Energimyndigheten/ ; //Swedish Research Council (VR). The grant agreement corresponds to the Swedish Research Council./ ; //Sveriges Lantbruksuniversitet/Swedish University of Agricultural Sciencesarch Council through grant agreement no. 2022-06725/ ; },
mesh = {Anaerobiosis ; Culture Media/chemistry ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/metabolism/growth & development ; Sewage/microbiology ; Ammonia/metabolism ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Bioreactors/microbiology ; Biofuels ; DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/genetics ; *Biota ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Metagenomics ; },
abstract = {Biogas inocula with distinct taxonomic compositions often converge to similar communities when fed the same substrate, indicating strong substrate-driven deterministic assembly. Nevertheless, stochastic processes have also been suggested as a critical element for microbial assembly in biogas systems. To date, assembly processes have mainly been investigated with undefined, non-sterile substrates, making it difficult to exclude the influence of external microorganisms. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether three taxonomically distinct anaerobic digestion (AD) communities would converge when exposed to uniform growth conditions during semi-continuous operation with a sterilised defined medium. The inocula originated from mesophilic processes using different substrates (food waste, sludge, and manure) and total ammonia levels (0.5-7.2 g/L). The medium was formulated to support all four main metabolic steps of AD: hydrolysis, fermentation, anaerobic oxidation, and methanogenesis. Taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional analyses conducted via 16S and metagenomic sequencing showed that the substrate had no deterministic effect on microbial community taxonomic composition. Instead, the final community structure was dictated primarily by the initial inoculum, regardless of changes in substrate composition or ammonia levels. Despite taxonomic divergence, broad-level functionality and operational performance remained similar between communities.},
}

Anaerobiosis
Culture Media/chemistry
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/metabolism/growth & development
Sewage/microbiology
Ammonia/metabolism
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Phylogeny
Bioreactors/microbiology
Biofuels
DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry/genetics
*Biota
Sequence Analysis, DNA
Metagenomics

@article {pmid40983948,
year = {2025},
author = {Zafeiropoulos, H and Delopoulos, EIM and Erega, A and Schneider, A and Geirnaert, A and Morris, J and Faust, K},
title = {microbetag: simplifying microbial network interpretation through annotation, enrichment tests, and metabolic complementarity analysis.},
journal = {Genome biology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {292},
pmid = {40983948},
issn = {1474-760X},
support = {101000309//Horizon 2020/ ; 101000309//Horizon 2020/ ; 9017//EMBO Scientific Exchange Grant/ ; },
mesh = {*Software ; *Metabolic Networks and Pathways ; Molecular Sequence Annotation ; Metagenome ; Databases, Genetic ; *Microbiota ; },
abstract = {Microbial co-occurrence network inference is often hindered by low accuracy and tool dependency. We introduce microbetag, a comprehensive software ecosystem designed to annotate microbial networks. Nodes, representing taxa, are enriched with phenotypic traits, while edges are enhanced with metabolic complementarities, highlighting potential cross-feeding relationships. microbetag's online version relies on microbetagDB, a database of 34,608 annotated representative genomes. microbetag can be applied to custom (metagenome-assembled) genomes via its stand-alone version. MGG, a Cytoscape app designed to support microbetag, offers a streamlined, user-friendly interface for network retrieval and visualization. microbetag effectively identified known metabolic interactions and serves as a robust hypothesis-generating tool.},
}

*Software
*Metabolic Networks and Pathways
Molecular Sequence Annotation
Metagenome
Databases, Genetic
*Microbiota

@article {pmid40982389,
year = {2025},
author = {Pizzini, JD and Midani, FS and Britton, RA},
title = {Updated Protocol for the Assembly and Use of the Minibioreactor Array (MBRA).},
journal = {Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE},
volume = {},
number = {223},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3791/68788},
pmid = {40982389},
issn = {1940-087X},
mesh = {*Bioreactors/microbiology ; *Microbiota/physiology ; Humans ; },
abstract = {The human microbiome comprises diverse and dynamic microbial communities that play essential roles in host health. Understanding these communities and their responses to environmental factors is critical for advancing microbiome-based therapeutics. Traditional in vitro models for cultivating human-derived microbiota often lack scalability and require extensive technical expertise, limiting their accessibility and throughput. To address these limitations, we developed the Minibioreactor Array (MBRA) system -- a modular, single-stage, continuous-flow platform for high-throughput cultivation of microbial communities. This system enables parallel cultivation of up to 48 distinct microbial communities, supporting experimental flexibility while maintaining the stable growth of complex ecosystems. This protocol provides detailed guidance on MBRA fabrication, assembly, sterilization, and operation. The system's modular design allows for easy integration into anaerobic chambers and supports customization for a wide range of experimental applications. It has been used to study microbial responses to antibiotics, dietary compounds, and pathogen invasion, and to screen for pathogen-resistant communities. With its accessibility, scalability, and reproducibility, the MBRA represents a powerful model system for investigating microbial interactions and advancing microbiome research.},
}

*Bioreactors/microbiology
*Microbiota/physiology
Humans

@article {pmid40982108,
year = {2025},
author = {Saini, K and Kumar, SS and Kumar, V and Bajar, S},
title = {Demonstrated role of sulfate-reducing bacterial consortia in anaerobic paracetamol biodegradation.},
journal = {Biodegradation},
volume = {36},
number = {5},
pages = {91},
pmid = {40982108},
issn = {1572-9729},
support = {SR/PURSE/2022/126(G)//Department of Science and Technology (DST) PURSE Grant, New Delhi, India/ ; },
mesh = {*Acetaminophen/metabolism ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; *Microbial Consortia ; *Sulfates/metabolism ; Anaerobiosis ; *Bacteria/metabolism/genetics/classification ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; },
abstract = {The escalating global production and usage of paracetamol (C8H9NO2), a widely administered analgesic and antipyretic pharmaceutical, has led to its ubiquitous presence in environmental matrices, including surface waters, municipal wastewater, and even potable water sources. Owing to its persistence and bioaccumulative potential, paracetamol poses a significant ecotoxicological threat, particularly through trophic transfer in aquatic ecosystems. Conventional wastewater treatment methods often fall short in completely eliminating such micropollutants. In this context, bioremediation offers a promising, sustainable, and cost-effective alternative for pharmaceutical remediation. This study investigates the anaerobic degradation potential of two sulfate-reducing bacterial consortia, designated Consortium I and Consortium II, isolated from Okhla landfill leachate and enriched with distinct Postgate media formulations. Paracetamol was introduced at varying concentrations (50-500 mg/L), with and without supplementation of an auxiliary carbon source, sodium lactate. Metagenomic profiling via 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that Consortium I was primarily composed of Clostridium (40.1%) and Acidipropionibacterium (31.2%), whereas Consortium II exhibited a dominant presence of Clostridium (80.3%) and Bacillus (7.99%). Consortium II exhibited superior degradation kinetics, achieving complete removal of 500 mg/L paracetamol in 48 h under lactate-free conditions. Conversely, the presence of sodium lactate significantly attenuated degradation efficiency, suggesting substrate competition and metabolic preference. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) identified 4-aminophenol and hydroquinone as transient intermediates, supporting a proposed anaerobic degradation pathway for paracetamol. These findings underscore the potential of native sulfate reducing bacterial consortia in the bioremediation of contaminants and provide mechanistic insight into anaerobic paracetamol degradation, offering a viable strategy for enhanced treatment efficacy of contaminated waste streams.},
}

*Acetaminophen/metabolism
Biodegradation, Environmental
*Microbial Consortia
*Sulfates/metabolism
Anaerobiosis
*Bacteria/metabolism/genetics/classification
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics

@article {pmid40981149,
year = {2025},
author = {Medina-Martínez, I and Gil-Gutiérrez, R and García-García, J and de la Hera-Fernández, FJ and Navarrete-Navarrete, N and Zamora-Pasadas, M and Ortego-Centeno, N and Callejas-Rubio, JL and García-García, F and Gálvez-Peralta, J and Rodríguez-Nogales, A and Correa-Rodríguez, M and Rueda-Medina, B},
title = {Association of Gut Dysbiosis with Disease Phenotype and Treatment in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.},
journal = {Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40981149},
issn = {2076-3271},
support = {20.000 €//B-CTS-100-UGR20, Consejería de Economía, Innovación y Ciencia de la Junta de Andalucía I+D+i Programa operativo FEDER Andalucía 2014-2020/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/microbiology/drug therapy/complications ; *Dysbiosis/microbiology/complications ; Female ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics ; Male ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Phenotype ; Feces/microbiology ; Case-Control Studies ; },
abstract = {Introduction: Gut dysbiosis has been associated with the development of autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Although previous studies suggest microbial alterations in SLE, evidence at the species level and its clinical relevance remain limited. This study aimed to characterise the gut microbiota at species level in SLE patients and evaluate its association with clinical features. Materials and methods: A total of 57 SLE patients and 57 matched controls were included. Faecal samples were collected using the OMNIgene-GUT kit, and microbial DNA was extracted with the Maxwell RSC PureFood GMO kit. Metagenomic sequencing was performed using the Illumina MiSeq platform, and the data was analysed with QIIME2. Microbial diversity and relative abundance were assessed using the phyloseq package, and differentially abundant taxa were identified using DESeq2. Clinical subgroups among SLE patients were identified via k-means clustering. Results: SLE patients exhibited significantly different beta diversity compared to controls (p = 0.001), with increased abundance of Pseudomonadota (3.81% vs. 6.80%, p < 0.05) and decreased Bacteroidota (53.42% vs. 38.04%, p < 0.05). Only 10 bacterial species were consistently present across all SLE samples, including Akkermansia muciniphila, Bacteroides dorei, and Lactobacillus gasseri. Hypertensive patients and those treated with corticosteroids presented a marked depletion of key microbial taxa. Conversely, Belimumab-treated patients displayed a distinct microbiota enriched in species such as Alistipes shahii and Prevotella corporis. Conclusions: This study confirms significant gut microbiota alterations in SLE and pinpoints microbial profiles associated with clinical subgroups. These findings suggest gut dysbiosis may contribute to SLE pathogenesis and indicate biomarkers for disease stratification.},
}

Humans
*Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/microbiology/drug therapy/complications
*Dysbiosis/microbiology/complications
Female
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics
Male
Adult
Middle Aged
Phenotype
Feces/microbiology
Case-Control Studies

@article {pmid40977701,
year = {2025},
author = {Ren, P and Zhao, Y and Li, X and Xie, J and Liao, X and Luo, Q and Liu, X and Li, J and Fan, Y and Cheng, X and Fu, X and Zhou, J and Wu, X},
title = {Comprehensive metagenomic and lipidomic analysis showed that baicalin could improve depressive behaviour in atherosclerotic mice by inhibiting nerve cell ferroptosis.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1599570},
pmid = {40977701},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Animals ; *Flavonoids/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Ferroptosis/drug effects ; *Atherosclerosis/drug therapy/metabolism/complications ; Mice ; *Depression/drug therapy/metabolism/etiology ; *Neurons/drug effects/metabolism ; Metagenomics/methods ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Lipidomics/methods ; Disease Models, Animal ; Male ; Lipid Metabolism/drug effects ; Behavior, Animal/drug effects ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Atherosclerosis (AS) concomitant depression is a serious clinical problem with unclear mechanisms of co-morbidity. Baicalin (BA) can resist atherosclerosis and depression by regulating intestinal flora and host lipid metabolism. Therefore, based on intestinal microorganisms and lipid metabolism, this study explored the mechanism of baicalin against AS concomitant depression.

METHODS: 16 C57BL/6 mice were fed with normal diet as blank control group. 48 ApoE[-/-]mice were randomly divided into 3 groups (model group and BAL, BAH two treatment groups). The mouse model of atherosclerosis concomitant depression was established by high-fat feeding combined with restraint stimulation for 16 weeks. Behavioural experiments and biochemical indexes were used to detect the antidepressant effect and anti-atherosclerosis effect of baicalin. Metagenomic sequencing technology combined with metabolomics analysis was used to detect the effects of BA on intestinal microflora structure and brain lipids in AS co-depressed mice. Erastin was used to induce HT-22 hippocampal neurons to construct a model of ferroptosis. The inhibition of baicalin on ferrotosis was verified by detecting the cell viability, ROS production, and expression levels of glutathione, SLC7A11, GPX4 and ACSL4 in each group.

RESULTS: Baicalin could effectively improve the indexes of AS co-depressed mice, and the results of metagenomics and lipidomics showed that there were disorders of intestinal flora represented by Helicobacter_typhlonius and Escherichia_coli and disorders of lipid metabolism represented by PE in the AS co-depressed model mice. The correlation analysis showed that the lipid metabolism disorders in the model mice were closely related to the intestinal flora disorders, and baicalin intervention could effectively improve the intestinal flora and lipid metabolism disorders in the AS co-depressed mice. Metabolic pathway enrichment analysis showed that differential lipid PEs were significantly enriched in the iron death pathway, and our further in vitro cellular experiments showed that baicalin could inhibit Erastin-induced Ferroptosis in the hippocampal neuronal cell line HT-22 by promoting the expression of SLC7A11, GSH, and GPX4, inhibiting the expression of ACSL4, and decreasing the cellular ROS.

CONCLUSION: Baicalin improves intestinal microbiota and brain lipid metabolism and inhibits ferroptosis of nerve cells, which possesses the application value of anti-atherosclerotic concomitant depression.},
}

Animals
*Flavonoids/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Ferroptosis/drug effects
*Atherosclerosis/drug therapy/metabolism/complications
Mice
*Depression/drug therapy/metabolism/etiology
*Neurons/drug effects/metabolism
Metagenomics/methods
Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
Mice, Inbred C57BL
Lipidomics/methods
Disease Models, Animal
Male
Lipid Metabolism/drug effects
Behavior, Animal/drug effects

@article {pmid40974374,
year = {2025},
author = {Hemnani, M and Karatas, M and Cruz, AVS and da Silva, PG and Thompson, G and Poeta, P and Rebelo, H and Matthijnssens, J and Mesquita, JR},
title = {Metagenomic analysis of viral diversity in Portuguese bats.},
journal = {Veterinary research communications},
volume = {49},
number = {6},
pages = {319},
pmid = {40974374},
issn = {1573-7446},
mesh = {Animals ; *Chiroptera/virology ; Metagenomics ; Portugal/epidemiology ; Feces/virology ; *Coronavirus/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/genetics ; *Coronavirus Infections/veterinary/virology/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {Bats are highly diverse mammals and known reservoirs of numerous zoonotic viruses. Their role in the ecology of emerging infectious diseases continues to be of significant interest. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of coronaviruses (CoVs) in Portuguese bats and predict the affinity of their spike proteins with the aminopeptidase N (APN) receptor of several host species. The study also explored the viral diversity in bat samples using metagenomic sequencing. Ten bats (five Myotis myotis and five Miniopterus schreibersii) were captured at an underground roost in 2022 (Central Portugal), and fecal samples, oral, and anal swabs were collected (n = 27). A Pan-CoV nested RT-PCR was used for initial screening, followed by viral metagenomic sequencing of all fecal samples and one CoV-positive buccal swab. In silico protein docking studies were performed between a Portuguese bat CoV spike protein and APNs of bats, pigs, and humans. Pan-CoV nested RT-PCR identified three positive samples: two fecal samples and one buccal sample. Metagenomic sequencing allowed us to determine two near complete CoV genomes. Protein docking predicted strong binding of this spike protein to bat, porcine, and human APN receptors. Metagenomics also identified picornaviruses, adenovirus, and dependoparvovirus in fecal samples. This study reports the first near complete genome sequences of two members of the Alphacoronavirus genus from a Portuguese bat The identification of other viral families highlights the diverse virome of these cave-dwelling bat species. Protein docking studies suggest a potential for cross-species transmission of this bat CoV between bats, porcines and humans, though further research is needed to confirm these interactions.},
}

Animals
*Chiroptera/virology
Metagenomics
Portugal/epidemiology
Feces/virology
*Coronavirus/genetics/isolation & purification/classification
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/genetics
*Coronavirus Infections/veterinary/virology/epidemiology
Phylogeny

@article {pmid40973961,
year = {2025},
author = {Lin, PT and Wu, YW},
title = {Highly-accurate prediction of colorectal cancer through low abundance uncultivated genomes recovered using metagenomic co-assembly and binning approach.},
journal = {BMC cancer},
volume = {25},
number = {Suppl 2},
pages = {1418},
pmid = {40973961},
issn = {1471-2407},
support = {MOST110-2221-E-038-019-MY3//Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan/ ; MOST111-2221-E-038-023-MY3//Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan/ ; grant TMU-NTUST-108-08//Taipei Medical University-National Taiwan University of Science and Technology Joint Research Program/ ; },
mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Male ; Asian People/genetics ; *Colorectal Neoplasms/microbiology/genetics/diagnosis ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics ; Metagenome ; *Metagenomics/methods ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; White People/genetics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Recent microbiome studies have established the association between the composition of gut microbiota and various diseases. Since 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing may suffer from problems such as lower taxonomic resolution or limited sensitivity, more and more studies embraced whole-metagenome approach, which has the potential of sequencing everything in the target microbiome, to conduct microbial association analysis. However, species profiling, which is the most popular analysis technique for whole-metagenome analysis, cannot detect uncultivated species. Since uncultivated species may also be indispensable in the gut environments, it is crucial to identify those uncultivated species and evaluate their importance in discerning disease samples from healthy ones.

RESULTS: After conducting de novo co-assembly and genome binning procedures on two colorectal cancer (CRC) cohorts, in which one of them was from the Asian population while the other was from the Caucasian population, we identified that the Asian and Caucasian cohorts shared a significant amount of microbial species in their microbiota. In addition we found that low abundance genomes may be more important in classifying disease and healthy metagenomes. By sorting the genomes based on their random forest importance scores in differentiating disease and healthy samples and cumulatively evaluating the genome subsets in predicting CRC status, we identified dozens of "important" genomes for each of the cohorts that were able to predict CRC with very high accuracy (0.90 and 0.98 AUROC for the Asian and Caucasian cohorts respectively). Uncultivated species were also identified among the selected genomes, highlighting the importance of including the uncultivated species in order to build better disease prediction models and evaluate the roles of the uncultivated species in the disease formation or progression. Finally we found that the "important" species for both cohorts did not overlap with each other, hinting that the species highly associated with CRC disease may be different between the Eastern and Western populations.

CONCLUSION: In this study we demonstrated the importance of recovering and analyzing low abundance uncultivated species to identify their associations with colorectal cancer. We hope this work shed new light on a more comprehensive understanding of how our gut microbes are correlated with diseases.},
}

Female
Humans
Male
Asian People/genetics
*Colorectal Neoplasms/microbiology/genetics/diagnosis
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics
Metagenome
*Metagenomics/methods
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
White People/genetics

@article {pmid40970702,
year = {2025},
author = {Hu, J and Blazier, JC and Gitter, A and Gregory, LF and Gentry, TJ},
title = {How sequencing technology shapes our understanding of river water microbiomes and resistomes: a comparative study.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0172325},
doi = {10.1128/aem.01723-25},
pmid = {40970702},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: River ecosystems are vital for supporting biodiversity and supplying freshwater, but are increasingly impacted by microbial pollution, including the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), which poses growing public health concerns. While high-throughput sequencing technologies have advanced our ability to study microbial communities and resistomes, their varying capabilities and biases require comparative analysis. In this study, we compared three sequencing approaches-Illumina 16S rRNA amplicon, Illumina shotgun metagenomics, and Oxford Nanopore-based long-read metagenomics-to profile microbial communities, ARGs, and virulence factors (VFs) in 48 river water samples. All methods identified Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria as dominant phyla, but substantial differences emerged at finer taxonomic levels. Long-read metagenomics and 16S data showed greater consistency at the genus level, while Illumina metagenomics differed, detecting more potential pathogens and fewer native freshwater taxa. For ARG and VF profiling, unassembled Illumina data yielded higher diversity and abundance, but assembled Illumina data showed comparable results to long-read metagenomics data in terms of dominant genes and host associations. Although Illumina provides high sensitivity, the use of short reads and associated assembly limitations can compromise functional accuracy. In contrast, long-read metagenomics facilitates gene-level resolution and direct host linkage, providing a more comprehensive understanding of environmental microbiomes. Our findings highlight the strengths and limitations of each method and support Oxford Nanopore technology (ONT)-based long-read metagenomic sequencing as a cost-effective and informative tool for high-resolution taxonomic and functional analysis of complex environmental samples.

IMPORTANCE: Accurate characterization of microbial communities and their functional traits, such as antibiotic resistance, is essential for evaluating water quality and associated public health risks. However, the selection of sequencing methods can substantially influence the detection and interpretation of microbial community composition and functional potential in environmental samples. By directly comparing amplicon, short-read metagenomic, and long-read metagenomic sequencing across 48 freshwater samples collected across different sites and time points, this study builds upon earlier work that typically focused on only two methods or less complex communities. It provides a comparative evaluation of three widely used sequencing approaches, demonstrating how methodological differences affect the resolution and reliability of taxonomic and functional profiling in complex environmental microbiomes. By highlighting the strengths and limitations of each platform, these findings enhance our understanding of how sequencing strategy shapes environmental microbiome analyses and contributes to evidence-based method selection in environmental microbiology and antimicrobial resistance monitoring.},
}

@article {pmid40970218,
year = {2024},
author = {Finn, RD and Balech, B and Burgin, J and Chua, P and Corre, E and Cox, CJ and Donati, C and Dos Santos, VM and Fosso, B and Hancock, J and Heil, KF and Ishaque, N and Kale, V and Kunath, BJ and Médigue, C and Nogueira, T and Pafilis, E and Pesole, G and Richardson, L and Santamaria, M and Strepis, N and Van Den Bossche, T and Vizcaíno, JA and Zafeiropoulos, H and Willassen, NP and Pelletier, E and Batut, B},
title = {Establishing the ELIXIR Microbiome Community.},
journal = {F1000Research},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40970218},
issn = {2046-1402},
mesh = {Computational Biology ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Microbiota ; },
abstract = {Microbiome research has grown substantially over the past decade in terms of the range of biomes sampled, identified taxa, and the volume of data derived from the samples. In particular, experimental approaches such as metagenomics, metabarcoding, metatranscriptomics and metaproteomics have provided profound insights into the vast, hitherto unknown, microbial biodiversity. The ELIXIR Marine Metagenomics Community, initiated amongst researchers focusing on marine microbiomes, has concentrated on promoting standards around microbiome-derived sequence analysis, as well as understanding the gaps in methods and reference databases, and identifying solutions to the computational overheads of performing such analyses. Nevertheless, the methods used and the challenges faced are not confined to marine microbiome studies, but are broadly applicable to other biomes. Thus, expanding this Marine Metagenomics Community to a more inclusive ELIXIR Microbiome Community will enable it to encompass a broader range of biomes and link expertise across 'omics technologies. Furthermore, engaging with a large number of researchers will improve the efficiency and sustainability of bioinformatics infrastructure and resources for microbiome research (standards, data, tools, workflows, training), which will enable a deeper understanding of the function and taxonomic composition of the different microbial communities.},
}

Computational Biology
*Metagenomics/methods
*Microbiota

@article {pmid40969555,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Zhang, Y and Xing, G and Mei, T and Wang, M and Huang, C and Yi, H and Zhan, Y and Yang, S and Yan, Q and Li, S and Chen, C},
title = {Characterization of the oral virome in patients with diabetes mellitus.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1607798},
pmid = {40969555},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *Virome ; *Mouth/virology/microbiology ; Male ; Female ; *Diabetes Mellitus/virology/microbiology ; Middle Aged ; *Viruses/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Metagenomics ; Microbiota ; Bacteria/classification/genetics ; Adult ; Aged ; Dysbiosis ; Metagenome ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Diabetes mellitus (DM), a globally prevalent chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, has been increasingly linked to dysbiosis of the oral microbiome. However, the relationship between the virome, a crucial component of the oral microbiome, and DM remains poorly understood.

METHODS: To explore the characteristics of the oral virome in DM patients, we analyze the oral viral communities of 45 DM patients and 40 healthy controls (HC) using a publicly available metagenomic dataset.

RESULTS: Our analysis revealed no significant differences in a-diversity between DM patients and HC. However, Podovirus was enriched in DM patients, whereas Microviridae was more prevalent in HC. A total of 1,131 virus signal was identified, primarily belonging to the Siphovirus and Myovirus taxa. Notably, HC-enriched vOTUs exhibited broader host tropism, predominantly infecting Prevotella, Fusobacterium, and Gemella, whereas DM-enriched vOTUs showed narrower specificity for Pauljensenia and Veillonella. Cross-kingdom network analysis suggested that certain viruses (HMP_1157.k81_309051) may have potential links to the development of DM, and the bacteria genus F0040 might play a significant role in maintaining oral health. Additionally, the random forest model based on viral markers effectively distinguished between HC and DM patients (AUC =90.8%), significantly outperforming the bacterial model.

DISCUSSION: This indicates that these unique viral markers could serve as potential targets for DM intervention. Taken together, our findings reveal distinct alterations in the oral virome of DM patients and highlight its promise as a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target in metabolic disease research.},
}

Humans
*Virome
*Mouth/virology/microbiology
Male
Female
*Diabetes Mellitus/virology/microbiology
Middle Aged
*Viruses/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Metagenomics
Microbiota
Bacteria/classification/genetics
Adult
Aged
Dysbiosis
Metagenome

@article {pmid40969552,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, J and Ren, W and Liu, S and Li, Z and Zeng, Y and Meng, J and Yao, X},
title = {Changes in antioxidant capacity and gut microbiota in mice after intake of camel milk.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1621031},
pmid = {40969552},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Animals ; Camelus ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Antioxidants/metabolism/analysis ; *Milk/chemistry ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred ICR ; Liver/metabolism ; Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Colon/microbiology ; Metagenomics ; Male ; Fermentation ; Probiotics/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {Fermented camel milk offers significant nutritional benefits, enriched with probiotics that generate bioactive compounds advantageous to human health. In order to investigate the effects of camel milk with different treatments on Antioxidant Capacity and Gut Microbiota in mice, 32 ICR mice were selected and randomly divided into 4 groups, including gavage with 10 mL/kg body weight of distilled water (DW Group), camel milk (CM Group), fermented camel milk (FCM Group), and pasteurized fermented camel milk (PFCM Group) every morning, respectively. After 28 days, liver and colon samples were collected to assess liver antioxidant capacity, and metagenomic analysis was performed on alterations in microbial community structures. Results demonstrated that all camel milk treatments elevated liver total protein levels while reducing MDA and SOD activity. In addition, the PFCM group had the highest total antioxidant capacity and the lowest SOD content. In addition, the intestinal microorganisms of mice changed at the phylum, genus and species levels after being gavaged with camel milk of different treatments. A total of 4732 microorganisms were identified, of which 259, 222, 116 and 164 were unique to the DW, CM, FCM and PFCM groups, respectively. The relative abundances of Adlercreutzia caecimuris, Adlercreutzia mucosicola and Enterorhabdus sp. P55 were significantly higher in the CM, FCM and PFCM groups than in the DW group, and the relative abundances of Parvibacter caecicola, Adlercreutzia muris and Roseburia sp. 1XD42-69 were significantly higher in the CM and PFCM groups than in the DW group. In addition, the relative abundances of Faecalibaculum rodentium, Alistipes muris and Limosilactobacillus reuteri were different between the CM and FCM groups. The results of the correlation analysis between the relative abundance of microbial species and antioxidant indices showed that Adlercreutzia mucosicola, Adlercreutzia muris, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Enterorhabdus sp. P55 were significantly correlated with the antioxidant indices of mice. Further functional annotations indicated that these microorganisms might modulate antioxidant activity via metabolic and organismal systems. In summary, camel milk and fermented camel milk can play a positive role in regulating the intestinal flora of mice, thereby regulating the antioxidant capacity of mice and alleviating the effects of oxidative stress on the body. This study provides a scientific foundation for the further exploration and utilization of camel milk.},
}

Animals
Camelus
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Antioxidants/metabolism/analysis
*Milk/chemistry
Mice
Mice, Inbred ICR
Liver/metabolism
Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Colon/microbiology
Metagenomics
Male
Fermentation
Probiotics/administration & dosage

@article {pmid40968405,
year = {2025},
author = {Trubl, G and Probst, AJ},
title = {Clarifying Terminology in Microbial Ecology: A Call for Precision in Scientific Communication.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {27},
number = {9},
pages = {e70177},
doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.70177},
pmid = {40968405},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {SCW1632//U.S. Department of Energy Office of Biological and Environmental Research through the Genomic Science Program and the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory/ ; CRC 1439/1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; CRC 1439/2//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; 426547801//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; },
mesh = {Communication ; *Ecology ; *Microbiology ; *Microbiota ; *Terminology as Topic ; },
abstract = {The rapid evolution of microbiology as a field of research has led to the introduction of new terminology and the adaptation of existing terms. However, inconsistencies in the use of these terms, including variations across different scientific disciplines, can lead to confusion and miscommunication within the scientific community. This article discusses the importance of precise terminology in microbiome research, highlighting examples where terms have been misused or redefined without clear justification. We also present a list of frequently used terms in microbial ecology along with their specific definitions. We argue that the misuse of terminology can hinder scientific progress by creating ambiguity and misunderstanding. To address this, we propose a set of guidelines for the consistent use of key terms and provide clear definitions for some of the most commonly misused or newly introduced terms in the field. The definitions provided herein will also function as a guide for young researchers new to the field of microbial ecology. Accurate and consistent use of terminology is crucial for effective communication and collaboration in microbiology research. By adhering to standardised definitions, researchers can ensure that their work is clearly communicated and contributes meaningfully to the progress of science.},
}

Communication
*Ecology
*Microbiology
*Microbiota
*Terminology as Topic

@article {pmid40967861,
year = {2025},
author = {Ma, Y and Si, JH and Sun, DJY and Yu, CQ and Pang, YJ and Lyu, J and Li, LM},
title = {[Progress in population-based research of human microbiome and cardiovascular diseases].},
journal = {Zhonghua liu xing bing xue za zhi = Zhonghua liuxingbingxue zazhi},
volume = {46},
number = {9},
pages = {1680-1687},
doi = {10.3760/cma.j.cn112338-20241219-00816},
pmid = {40967861},
issn = {0254-6450},
support = {2023ZD0510101, 2023ZD0510100//Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases-National Science and Technology Major Project/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/microbiology ; *Microbiota ; Metagenomics ; },
abstract = {The human microbiome encompasses a diverse array of microorganisms and their functional interactions within the human body. It exhibits a vast diversity of species and complex roles across various body environments. Advanced sequencing technologies, such as 16S amplicon sequencing and metagenomic sequencing, facilitate in-depth analysis on this microbial community. Recent researches have suggested that characteristics of the human microbiome (such as diversity and composition of microbiome, involving metabolic pathways and metabolites) might be associated with the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases. These findings provide valuable insights into the etiology of chronic diseases and might aid in the development of novel disease biomarkers and intervention strategies. This paper summarizes the designs, current status and key findings of current population-based research in this field, and introduce the future development and analyze the existing critical problems that need further investigations.},
}

Humans
*Cardiovascular Diseases/microbiology
*Microbiota
Metagenomics

@article {pmid40965271,
year = {2025},
author = {Dell'Acqua, AN and Scicchitano, D and Simoncini, N and Mercanti, I and Leuzzi, D and Turroni, S and Corlatti, L and Rampelli, S and Colonna, M and Corinaldesi, C and Candela, M and Palladino, G},
title = {Ski Tourism Shapes the Snow Microbiome on Ski Slopes in the Italian Central Alps.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology reports},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {e70195},
pmid = {40965271},
issn = {1758-2229},
mesh = {Italy ; *Microbiota ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; *Skiing ; *Snow/microbiology/virology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Tourism ; Humans ; Viruses/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Metagenomics ; Seasons ; },
abstract = {Winter sports exert significant anthropogenic pressures on the snow microbiome, affecting the entire alpine ecosystem. The massive usage of artificial snow, human occupation, and the release of xenobiotics like microplastics or ski wax components on ski tracks can profoundly alter snow microbial ecology. Here, we reconstructed the temporal dynamics of the snow microbiome at three sites in the Italian Alps: inside and outside a ski track at the impacted site of Santa Caterina Valfurva and near Cancano lake as an unimpacted control. Using epifluorescence microscopy, 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, and inferred metagenomics, we found that the snow microbiome inside the track presented a higher load of prokaryotes and viruses. Notably, N2-fixing microorganisms from cryospheric environments and host-associated taxa, like Terrisporobacter, Clostridium sensu stricto, Enterococcus, and Muribaculaceae, and the opportunistic pathogen Citrobacter characterised the impacted site. These microorganisms could originate from the river water used to produce artificial snow during winter. Our findings highlight the complexity and multifunctionality of the snow microbiome, where microorganisms with different ecological propensities can coexist, and the detectable impact of ski tourism, which enriches host-associated and xenobiotic-degrading microorganisms. This underscores the need for systematic monitoring and protection of the snow microbiome in the Alpine environment from anthropogenic threats.},
}

Italy
*Microbiota
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
*Skiing
*Snow/microbiology/virology
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Tourism
Humans
Viruses/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Metagenomics
Seasons

@article {pmid40964625,
year = {2025},
author = {López Clinton, S and Iwaszkiewicz-Eggebrecht, E and Miraldo, A and Goodsell, R and Webster, MT and Ronquist, F and van der Valk, T},
title = {Small Bugs, Big Data: Metagenomics for Arthropod Biodiversity Monitoring.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {9},
pages = {e72163},
pmid = {40964625},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Obtaining genome-wide data from complex samples, such as environmental material or bulk species collections, is increasingly feasible, yet inferring species presence and population genomic insights remains challenging. We applied metagenomic sequencing to 40 arthropod bulk samples collected with Malaise traps across Sweden and compared results with metabarcoding of the same material. Using a custom genome database, we achieved genus-level classification largely consistent with metabarcoding. While metagenomics detected all genera identified by metabarcoding, conservative filtering thresholds designed to minimise false positives also excluded some true signals, particularly for low-abundance taxa. Taxonomic overlap between methods was further constrained by limited reference database representation. Beyond taxonomic assignment, metagenomic sequencing yielded genome-level information: we inferred haplotype diversity, heterozygosity and geographic population structure for several abundant species, including variable degrees of hybrid origin in red wood ants and the genetic distinctiveness of Gotland bumblebees. Finally, by-catch plant DNA present in the bulk samples revealed plausible arthropod-plant interactions, several of which align with known ecological associations. Together, these results demonstrate the potential of metagenomics for biodiversity monitoring and population genomics, while underscoring the importance of filtering criteria and comprehensive reference databases.},
}

@article {pmid40963595,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Q and Luo, Y and Mao, C and Xiang, X and Chen, J},
title = {Combined metagenomic and metabolomic analyses reveal gut microbiota dysbiosis and metabolic dysfunction in pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1645137},
pmid = {40963595},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Female ; Male ; *Metabolomics/methods ; *Metagenomics/methods ; Child, Preschool ; *Dysbiosis/metabolism/microbiology ; *Neurodevelopmental Disorders/metabolism/microbiology/etiology ; Child ; Feces/microbiology ; Metabolome ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are chronic brain diseases linked to innate immune signaling abnormalities, affecting children with complex gut-brain axis etiologies and limited targeted therapies. While infant microbes/metabolites may predict childhood NDDs, their landscape and host-metabolism interactions in NDDchildren remain unclear.

METHODS: This study enrolled 40 NDDchildren (mean age: 5.18 ± 1.77, F:M = 11:29) and 60 healthy controls (HCs; mean age:5.11 ± 1.42, F:M = 25:35) from Gansu Province Hospital Rehabilitation Center. Shotgun metagenomics and untargeted metabolomics was used to analyze gut microbiota and fecal/plasma metabolites, multi-omics integration analysis was performed to explore host-microbe interactions.

RESULTS: Clinically, NDD children showed self-care, concentration, and social behavior deficits, with grandparents as primary caregivers, versus parents in HCs. Microbiome analysis revealed reduced gut diversity and dysregulation in NDDs: depleted beneficial taxa including Akkermansia muciniphila and Lactococcus lactis, but enriched GABA/lactateproducing bacteria; and disrupted pathways included polysaccharides/fatty acids/amino acid/purine ribonucleosides metabolism. Fecal metabolomics identified 100 enriched metabolites including polyamines and GABA in 45 pathways and 254 depleted metabolites including bile acids and butyrate in 57 pathways. Plasma metabolomics showed 321 enriched metabolites like free fatty acids in 143 pathways and 270 depleted metabolites including glycerophospholipids in 84 pathways. Notably, phenolic acids, arginine/proline metabolism, and HIF-1 signaling were enriched in both feces and plasma of NDDs children. Benzene derivatives, indoles, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and tryptophan/tyrosine/phenylalanine metabolism were increased in plasma but decreased in feces, while oxidized lipids, amino acids and derivatives, metabolism of glycine/serine/threonine, alanine/aspartate/glutamate, and cysteine/methionine showed the opposite pattern. Venn analysis identified 29 common metabolites, with eight in KEGG maps. 11-dehydrocorticosterone, LPC (17:0/0:0), adipic acid, and sucralose were decreased in feces but increased in plasma; 1-methylhistidine and trigonelline were decreased in both; L-asparagine anhydrous was increased in feces but decreased in plasma; and sarcosine increased in both. Microbe-metabolite correlation analyses linked these metabolites to NDDs depleted species A. muciniphila, L. lactis, A. butyriciproducens, and etc.

DISCUSSIONS: Collectively, our study presents the first integrated profile of gut microbiome, microbial metabolites, and host metabolome, reveals gut microbiota dysbiosis, functional impairment, and metabolic disturbance in pediatric NDDs. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for microbiotaand metabolite-targeted therapeutic strategies in childhood NDDs.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Female
Male
*Metabolomics/methods
*Metagenomics/methods
Child, Preschool
*Dysbiosis/metabolism/microbiology
*Neurodevelopmental Disorders/metabolism/microbiology/etiology
Child
Feces/microbiology
Metabolome

@article {pmid40961652,
year = {2025},
author = {Gao, X and Ning, P and Luo, S and Wang, Y and Li, W and Fan, X and Li, X},
title = {Microbiome and pathogen identification, and associated antimicrobial resistance genes and virulence factors in seafood revealed by 16S rRNA amplicon and metagenomic sequencing.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {443},
number = {},
pages = {111441},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2025.111441},
pmid = {40961652},
issn = {1879-3460},
mesh = {*Seafood/microbiology ; *Virulence Factors/genetics ; *Bacteria/genetics/isolation & purification/drug effects/classification/pathogenicity ; Animals ; Metagenomics ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Fishes/microbiology ; *Microbiota ; Food Microbiology ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Shellfish/microbiology ; },
abstract = {16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) were employed to comprehensively analyze the microbial communities, foodborne pathogens, antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), and virulence factors (VFs) in four seafood categories: ready-to-eat fish (RET-fish), non-ready-to-eat fish (non-RTE-fish), shellfish, and shrimp. At the phylum level, Pseudomonadota dominated across all samples. The microbial community composition of shellfish exhibited significant distinctions compared to other seafood categories. Metagenomic profiling identified high-risk pathogens, such as pathogenic Vibrio, Salmonella enterica, and Listeria monocytogenes. ARGs and VFs displayed the highest relative abundance in RET-fish, while shellfish exhibited the lowest abundance with statistically significant differences compared to other groups. For ARGs carried hosts, Bacillus-associated tet(L) and Lactobacillus-associated Inu(A) in RTE-fish demonstrated elevated abundance. In contrast, Vibrio species in other groups carried high abundances of ARGs such as qnrS and tet(34). Additionally, Vibrio harbored high levels of VFs, such as flagella and EF-Tu. Furthermore, plasmid-derived contigs co-harboring ARGs and mobile genetic elements (MGEs) were identified, displaying broad host ranges and high homology with plasmids from previously isolated clinical pathogenic strains, which underscores the potential role of seafood as a critical reservoir for the dissemination of ARGs. High-throughput sequencing approaches, integrated with multi-tool bioinformatics pipelines, provided robust insights into microbial communities and associated safety risk factors. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted surveillance of seafood products and stricter antibiotic regulations in aquaculture to mitigate public health risks posed by foodborne pathogens and antimicrobial resistance.},
}

*Seafood/microbiology
*Virulence Factors/genetics
*Bacteria/genetics/isolation & purification/drug effects/classification/pathogenicity
Animals
Metagenomics
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Fishes/microbiology
*Microbiota
Food Microbiology
High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Shellfish/microbiology

@article {pmid40958540,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, X and Wang, W and Deng, L and Li, T and Lei, S and Zhang, L and Liao, L and Song, Z and Liu, G and Zhang, C},
title = {Shifts in Genome Size and Energy Utilization Strategies Sustain Microbial Functions Along an Aridity Gradient.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {31},
number = {9},
pages = {e70498},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.70498},
pmid = {40958540},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {2023YFF1305103//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 42130717//National Sciences Foundation of China/ ; 42177449//National Sciences Foundation of China/ ; 2024JC-JCQN-35//Shaanxi Provincial Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars/ ; },
mesh = {*Soil Microbiology ; *Microbiota ; *Genome Size ; Desert Climate ; *Energy Metabolism ; *Bacteria/genetics/metabolism ; *Genome, Bacterial ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; },
abstract = {Microbes acquire energy to sustain their survival and function through the decomposition of organic carbon (C) or by oxidizing atmospheric trace gases (e.g., H2, CO, CH4). However, how these two microbial energy-acquisition strategies change along environmental gradients and the underlying mechanisms are unclear. This study investigated the energy strategies and genomic traits of soil microbiomes along a natural aridity gradient, ranging from semi-humid forests to arid deserts. By analyzing 374 metagenome-assembled genomes from 13 microbial phyla, we found that the most prevalent microbes are metabolically versatile aerobes that use atmospheric trace gases to support aerobic respiration, C fixation, and N, P, and S cycling. Soil microbes adapt genomic traits associated with reduced energy expenditure in more arid soils, including smaller genome sizes, lower GC content, and fewer 16S rRNA gene copies. Microbial communities in diverse arid habitats are capable of utilizing organic compounds and the oxidation of trace gases (e.g., H2, CO, CH4, and H2S) as energy sources. However, the utilization of organic energy decreased while reliance on trace gas oxidation increased with increasing aridity. Higher consumption rates of H2, CO, and CH4 in desert soils from ex situ culture experiments confirmed that increased aridity stimulates microbial oxidation of atmospheric trace gases. This shift in energy utilization was strongly correlated with declining soil organic C levels. As organic C decreased along the aridity gradient, the abundance of trace gas oxidizers (both specialized and multi-gas oxidizers) increased significantly, while that of non-oxidizers declined. Trace gas oxidizers exhibited smaller genomes, lower 16S rRNA operon copy numbers, and slower predicted growth rates, indicative of oligotrophic lifestyles. In contrast, copiotrophic non-oxidizers had larger genomes and faster growth rates. These findings reveal that microbial communities adapt their genomic traits and energy-acquisition strategies to sustain functionality across aridity gradients, enhancing our understanding of soil microbiome responses to climate change.},
}

*Soil Microbiology
*Microbiota
*Genome Size
Desert Climate
*Energy Metabolism
*Bacteria/genetics/metabolism
*Genome, Bacterial
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics

@article {pmid40958166,
year = {2025},
author = {Ghaly, TM and Rajabal, V and Russell, D and Colombi, E and Tetu, SG},
title = {EcoFoldDB: Protein Structure-Guided Functional Profiling of Ecologically Relevant Microbial Traits at the Metagenome Scale.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {27},
number = {9},
pages = {e70178},
pmid = {40958166},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {CE200100029//ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology/ ; //Macquarie University Research Fellowship/ ; },
mesh = {*Metagenome ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Bacteria/genetics/classification/metabolism ; Soil Microbiology ; Phylogeny ; *Microbiota/genetics ; Computational Biology/methods ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/chemistry ; *Databases, Protein ; Protein Conformation ; },
abstract = {Microbial communities are fundamental to planetary health and ecosystem processes. High-throughput metagenomic sequencing has provided unprecedented insights into the structure and function of these communities. However, functionally profiling metagenomes remains constrained due to the limited sensitivity of existing sequence homology-based methods to annotate evolutionarily divergent genes. Protein structure, more conserved than sequence and intrinsically tied to molecular function, offers a solution. Capitalising on recent breakthroughs in structural bioinformatics, we present EcoFoldDB, a database of protein structures curated for ecologically relevant microbial traits, and its companion pipeline, EcoFoldDB-annotate, which leverages Foldseek with the ProstT5 protein language model for rapid structural homology searching directly from sequence data. EcoFoldDB-annotate outperforms state-of-the-art sequence-based methods in annotating metagenomic proteins, in terms of sensitivity and precision. To demonstrate its utility and scalability, we performed structure-guided functional profiling of 32 million proteins encoded by 8000 high-quality metagenome-assembled genomes from the global soil microbiome. EcoFoldDB-annotate could resolve the phylogenetic partitioning of important nitrogen cycling pathways, from taxonomically restricted nitrifiers to more widespread denitrifiers, as well as identifying novel, uncultivated bacterial taxa enriched in plant growth-promoting traits. We anticipate that EcoFoldDB will enable researchers to extract ecological insights from environmental genomes and metagenomes and accelerate discoveries in microbial ecology.},
}

*Metagenome
*Metagenomics/methods
*Bacteria/genetics/classification/metabolism
Soil Microbiology
Phylogeny
*Microbiota/genetics
Computational Biology/methods
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/chemistry
*Databases, Protein
Protein Conformation

@article {pmid40953197,
year = {2025},
author = {Ogarkov, O and Orlova, E and Suzdalnitsky, A and Mokrousov, I},
title = {Microbiota of the Lung Tuberculoma: Paucibacillary Bacterial Community.},
journal = {International journal of mycobacteriology},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {209-218},
pmid = {40953197},
issn = {2212-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Mycobacterium tuberculosis/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; *Microbiota ; *Tuberculoma/microbiology ; *Lung/microbiology/pathology ; *Tuberculosis, Pulmonary/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Caseum, the central necrotic material of tuberculous lesions, is a reservoir of drug-resistant persisting Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). However, tubercle bacilli are not the only bacterial inhabitants of this necrosis. We discuss the available data on metagenomic and amplicon sequencing of 16S rRNA of caseous necrosis from surgically excised tuberculosis (TB) foci. This approach facilitated the characterization of the biodiversity and the potential biochemical pathways of these bacterial communities. We postulate that in terms of MTB content relative to satellite anaerobic lipophilic bacteria, caseum may present two distinct terminal states. "True" TB necrosis, containing 99.9% tubercle bacilli, and a polymicrobial community wherein anaerobic lipophilic bacteria predominate over MTB. Isolation from caseum and genomic characterization of several Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus species support this concept.},
}

Humans
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Mycobacterium tuberculosis/genetics/isolation & purification/classification
*Microbiota
*Tuberculoma/microbiology
*Lung/microbiology/pathology
*Tuberculosis, Pulmonary/microbiology

@article {pmid40953029,
year = {2025},
author = {Park, R and Chevalier, C and Kieser, S and Marizzoni, M and Paquis, A and Armand, S and Scheffler, M and Allali, G and Assal, F and Momjian, S and Frisoni, GB},
title = {Gut microbiome signatures in iNPH: Insights from a shotgun metagenomics study.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {9},
pages = {e0330251},
pmid = {40953029},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics ; *Metagenomics/methods ; Male ; Female ; Aged ; *Hydrocephalus, Normal Pressure/microbiology ; Alzheimer Disease/microbiology ; Aged, 80 and over ; Dysbiosis/microbiology ; Case-Control Studies ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH), a leading cause of reversible dementia in older adults, is marked by ventriculomegaly, gait disturbances, cognitive decline, and urinary incontinence. Emerging evidence suggests that gut dysbiosis (microbial imbalance) may influence neuroinflammation and cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, potentially contributing to glymphatic system dysfunction and ventricular enlargement. This study used shotgun metagenomics to analyze the gut microbiome in iNPH patients (n = 18) compared to healthy controls (n = 50), individuals with ventriculomegaly but no iNPH symptoms (n = 50), and Alzheimer's disease patients (n = 50). Microbiome analysis showed an enrichment of species previously linked to various disease states, such as Enterocloster bolteae and Ruminococcus gnavus, indicating general dysbiosis. In contrast, enrichment of specific taxa, including Evtepia gabavorous and Cuneatibacter sp., were specifically associated with iNPH clinical traits, pointing to possible disease-specific microbial markers. Functional analysis showed enrichment of pathways related to carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, including the S-adenosyl-L-methionine superpathway, implicating inflammatory and immune processes. These findings suggest distinct gut microbiome signatures in iNPH, offering insights into potential gut-brain interactions that may contribute to the disorder's pathophysiology and highlighting possible targets for future therapeutic strategies.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics
*Metagenomics/methods
Male
Female
Aged
*Hydrocephalus, Normal Pressure/microbiology
Alzheimer Disease/microbiology
Aged, 80 and over
Dysbiosis/microbiology
Case-Control Studies
Middle Aged

@article {pmid40951316,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, B and Sheng, Z and Bu, C and Wang, L and Lv, W and Wang, Y and Xu, Y and Yan, G and Gong, M and Liu, L and Hu, W},
title = {Whipworm infection remodels the gut microbiome ecosystem and compromises intestinal homeostasis in elderly patients revealed by multi-omics analyses.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1663666},
pmid = {40951316},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Animals ; Humans ; *Homeostasis ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Aged ; Metabolomics/methods ; Metagenomics ; *Trichuriasis/parasitology/microbiology ; *Trichuris ; Female ; Male ; Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Metabolic Networks and Pathways ; Aged, 80 and over ; Metabolome ; *Intestines/microbiology ; Multiomics ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Whipworm (Trichuris trichiura) coexists with symbiotic microbiota in the gastrointestinal ecosystem. There is a paucity of data on the association between whipworm infection and the gut microbiota composition in elderly individuals. This study was designed to investigate changes in gut microbiota and function and its metabolite profile in patients with whipworm infection.

METHODS: We used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to identify microbial signatures associated with whipworm infection. Subsequently, shotgun metagenomic sequencing revealed functional changes that highlighted disruptions in microbial gene expression and metabolic pathways influencing host health. Ultraperformance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry metabolomics was used to characterize whipworm infectioninduced metabolic perturbations and elucidate metabolite dynamics linked to microbial activity. Collectively, this multi-omics approach deciphered structural, functional, and metabolic remodeling of the gut ecosystem that distinguished whipworm-infected patients from healthy controls.

RESULTS: Analyses of the gut microbiome in patients with whipworm infection revealed significantly increased observed species richness and ACE indices, along with an enrichment of Prevotella 9-driven enterotypes. Additionally, metagenomic and metabolomic analyses indicated enrichment in metabolic pathways related to amino acid, energy and carbohydrate metabolism. Metabolic network analysis further suggested that the upregulated Prevotella copri and Siphoviridae sp. were positively correlated with elevated levels of myristic acid and DL-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine.

CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that whipworm infection significantly remodels the gut microbiome ecosystem and compromises intestinal homeostasis.},
}

*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Animals
Humans
*Homeostasis
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Aged
Metabolomics/methods
Metagenomics
*Trichuriasis/parasitology/microbiology
*Trichuris
Female
Male
Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Metabolic Networks and Pathways
Aged, 80 and over
Metabolome
*Intestines/microbiology
Multiomics

@article {pmid40950593,
year = {2025},
author = {Silva, ACP and Migliaccio, F and Barosa, B and Gallucci, L and Yücel, M and Foustoukos, D and Le Bris, N and Bartlett, SJ and D'Alessandro, V and Vetriani, C and Giovannelli, D},
title = {Hydrodynamic flow and benthic boundary layer interactions shape the microbial community in Milos shallow water hydrothermal vents.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1649514},
pmid = {40950593},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {In shallow-water hydrothermal vents, the dynamic interface between the discharged reduced hydrothermal fluids and the oxidized seawater allows the establishment of gradients capable of supporting diverse and complex microbial mats. Due to their shallow depths and proximity to land masses, shallow vents are heavily influenced by dynamic forcing, tidal fluctuations, and episodic events (e.g., storms, tides, etc.). Although several studies have investigated the microbial communities inhabiting shallow vents in the last decades, less is known about how microbial communities respond to episodic events and how the complex interplay of physical and chemical drivers shapes the establishment and structure of microbial biofilms in these systems. Here we present data combining the taxonomic and functional diversity of the white microbial mats commonly found in sulfide rich shallow-water hydrothermal vents in Paleochori Bay (Milos Island, Greece), using a combined approach of 16S rRNA transcript amplicon sequencing (from RNA) and shotgun metagenomic sequencing (from which 16S rRNA genes were retrieved). We show that the white microbial mats of Milos shallow-water hydrothermal vents are dominated by Epsilonproteobacteria, now classified as Campylobacterota, with metabolic functions associated with chemolithoautotrophic lifestyles and exposed to a diverse array of viral communities. Taxonomic names follow the classification available at the time of analysis (2012). We explore how dynamic forcing and storm events influence microbial community restructuring and turn-over, and provide evidence that dynamic interactions with the benthic boundary layer play a key role in controlling the spatial distribution of taxa. Overall, our results show diverse processes through which geodynamic events influence microbial taxonomic and functional diversity.},
}

@article {pmid40948444,
year = {2025},
author = {Bryson, S and Sisson, Z and Nelson, B and Grove, J and Reister, E and Liachko, I and Auch, B and Graiziger, C and Khoruts, A},
title = {Use of proximity ligation shotgun metagenomics to investigate the dynamics of plasmids and bacteriophages in the gut microbiome following fecal microbiota transplantation.},
journal = {Gut microbes},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2559019},
pmid = {40948444},
issn = {1949-0984},
support = {R44 AI172703/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {*Fecal Microbiota Transplantation ; Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Bacteriophages/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; *Plasmids/genetics ; Feces/microbiology/virology ; *Clostridium Infections/therapy/microbiology ; *Bacteria/genetics/classification/virology/isolation & purification ; Clostridioides difficile/genetics ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {Proximity ligation shotgun metagenomics facilitate the analysis of the relationships between mobile genetic elements, such as plasmids and bacteriophages, and their specific bacterial hosts. We applied this technique to investigate the changes in the fecal microbiome of patients receiving fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections (rCDI). FMT was associated with successful engraftment of donor bacteria along with their associated bacteriophages. While fecal microbial diversity increased in all patients, the extent of specific bacterial taxa engraftment varied among individual patients. Interestingly, some donor bacteriophages remained closely linked to their original bacterial hosts, while others expanded their associations across different bacterial taxa. Notably, FMT partially reduced the content of vancomycin resistance and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase genes in the fecal microbiome of rCDI patients.},
}

*Fecal Microbiota Transplantation
Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics
*Metagenomics/methods
*Bacteriophages/genetics/isolation & purification/classification
*Plasmids/genetics
Feces/microbiology/virology
*Clostridium Infections/therapy/microbiology
*Bacteria/genetics/classification/virology/isolation & purification
Clostridioides difficile/genetics
Male
Female
Middle Aged

@article {pmid40946204,
year = {2025},
author = {Burnett, J and Buckley, D and Grinstead, DA and Oliver, HF},
title = {Microbial Community Associations With Listeria monocytogenes in Food Processing Environments: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Comprehensive reviews in food science and food safety},
volume = {24},
number = {5},
pages = {e70277},
pmid = {40946204},
issn = {1541-4337},
support = {//Diversey/ ; },
mesh = {*Listeria monocytogenes/growth & development/physiology/isolation & purification ; *Food Microbiology ; *Food Handling ; Microbiota ; Biofilms ; },
abstract = {Listeria monocytogenes persistence in food processing environments challenges current understanding of microbial community dynamics. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined peer-reviewed studies that screened for Listeria spp. and performed culture-independent metagenomics on FPE surface samples. Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Food Science and Technology Abstracts databases, screening 464 studies, with 73 qualifying for full-text review. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria for final analysis, encompassing 1659 environmental samples from meat processing (n = 4 studies) and produce facilities (n = 3 studies). Meta-analysis using random effects models revealed no significant correlation between Listeria presence and overall microbial community alpha diversity (Shannon: z = -0.89, p = 0.40; inverse Simpson and Chao1 indices similarly non-significant). This finding challenges previous assumptions about the relationship between microbial diversity and pathogen persistence. Differential abundance analyses identified three genera most frequently associated with Listeria presence across multiple studies: Pseudomonas, Psychrobacter, and Acinetobacter. These Gammaproteobacteria are characterized as aerobic biofilm formers capable of growth at refrigeration temperatures. One study using rigorous mixed-effects modeling identified Veillonella as significantly associated with L. monocytogenes presence, suggesting potential anaerobic niche interactions within biofilm communities. Synthesis of metabolic capabilities reported in the literature suggests these associated genera may provide structural biofilm matrices and potentially complementary metabolic functions that could facilitate L. monocytogenes survival in FPE conditions. However, the genus-level resolution of 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing data and methodological variations across studies limit definitive conclusions about specific metabolic interactions. These findings indicate that L. monocytogenes persistence appears to be associated with specific microbial partners rather than overall community diversity metrics. Understanding these ecological relationships may inform targeted control strategies focusing on biofilm-forming genera that create favorable conditions for Listeria survival in food processing environments.},
}

*Listeria monocytogenes/growth & development/physiology/isolation & purification
*Food Microbiology
*Food Handling
Microbiota
Biofilms

@article {pmid40945093,
year = {2025},
author = {Niu, Y and Zhang, X and Jiao, M and Storey, KB and Shekhovtsov, SV},
title = {Metabolic plasticity and gut microbiome synergy underlie high-altitude adaptation in the plateau frog Rana kukunoris: A multi-omics perspective.},
journal = {Ecotoxicology and environmental safety},
volume = {303},
number = {},
pages = {119050},
doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.119050},
pmid = {40945093},
issn = {1090-2414},
mesh = {Animals ; *Altitude ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; *Ranidae/physiology/microbiology/metabolism ; *Adaptation, Physiological ; Metabolomics ; Liver/metabolism ; Acclimatization ; Muscle, Skeletal/metabolism ; Metabolome ; Multiomics ; },
abstract = {Life on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is exposed to extreme abiotic stressors, yet endemic frog species such as Rana kukunoris thrive due to specialized adaptations. However, the metabolic and gut microbial mechanisms that enable survival at high altitude remain unclear. Here, we used metabolomic analysis and metagenomic sequencing to compare metabolic profiles of liver and skeletal muscle, as well as gut microbial composition and function, between high- (3730 m) and low-altitude (1990 m) populations. Metabolomic profiling revealed significant altitude-driven shifts, including the down-regulation of glycolysis (fructose-1,6-bisphosphate and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate decreased by 44.2 % and 40.7 %, respectively) and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates (fumaric acid and malic acid reduced by 37.7 % and 35.9 %, respectively) in the liver, and enhanced oxidative phosphorylation efficiency via elevated flavins (flavin mononucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide increased 1.43- and 1.28-fold, respectively) in skeletal muscle. These findings suggest a conserved strategy of metabolic rate depression and tissue-specific metabolic regulation. Significantly differential metabolites were enriched in glycerophospholipid metabolism and glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchor biosynthesis, highlighting membrane remodeling as a key adaptive response to cold stress at high altitudes. Moreover, gut microbiomes of high-altitude frogs exhibited increased α-diversity and functional enrichment in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, cofactors, amino acids, and carbohydrate-active enzymes (GHs/GTs), all likely improving tolerance to stressful environments and maintaining homeostasis. Key microbial taxa, including Candidatus Udaeobacter, Desulfovibrio, Bradyrhizobium, and Akkermansia, showed a specific dominance in high-altitude frogs, which may support host energy homeostasis and fortify gut barrier function. Multi-omics data highlighted the convergence of protective mechanisms in high-altitude frogs, including autophagy and two-component/quorum sensing systems. This study reveals significant adaptive remodeling of metabolism and gut microbiota in high-altitude R. kukunoris, providing novel insights into host-microbe synergistic interactions under extreme environments.},
}

Animals
*Altitude
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
*Ranidae/physiology/microbiology/metabolism
*Adaptation, Physiological
Metabolomics
Liver/metabolism
Acclimatization
Muscle, Skeletal/metabolism
Metabolome
Multiomics

@article {pmid40944761,
year = {2025},
author = {Gundogdu, A and Nalbantoglu, OU and Ulgen, M and Sav, MA and Ekinci, G and Kelestimur, F and Türe, U},
title = {Unveiling gut microbiome divergence in sellar-parasellar masses and brain tumors: A link beyond the skull.},
journal = {Neurosurgical review},
volume = {48},
number = {1},
pages = {641},
pmid = {40944761},
issn = {1437-2320},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; Female ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; *Brain Neoplasms/microbiology/metabolism ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Pituitary Neoplasms/microbiology/metabolism ; Aged ; },
abstract = {The gut microbiome is increasingly linked to systemic health and central nervous system disorders, including brain tumors. This study investigated gut microbiome composition and metabolic profiles in patients with sellar-parasellar tumors (SPTs), other brain tumor types (OBTs) and healthy controls (HCs) to identify microbial and metabolic biomarkers for brain tumor phenotypes. A cross-sectional study involving 56 participants (17 SPTs, 11 OBTs, 28 HCs) was conducted. Gut microbiota composition was analyzed with 16 S rRNA sequencing, and metabolic activity was inferred via metagenome-scale metabolic models. Multivariable regression and machine learning were used to evaluate microbial and metabolic differences across groups. Taxonomic and metabolic analyses revealed distinct profiles across these groups. The result showed that HCs exhibited higher levels of Lachnospira and Comamonadaceae, while tumor patients had an over-representation of Bacilli. OBT patients showed elevated metabolic exchange scores (MES) for amino acids (D-alanine, L-glutamic acid), carbohydrates (mucin-type O-glycans, alpha-lactose), and lipids (stearic acid, choline), most likely reflecting tumor-associated metabolic demands. Conversely, SPT patients had profiles closer to HCs, with lower MES and reduced systemic disruption. Key taxa such as Akkermansia, Faecalibacterium, and Lachnospira demonstrated tumor-specific adaptive metabolic outputs, emphasizing functional microbial contributions over purely taxonomic roles. These findings highlight the role of gut microbiota in brain tumor progression through altered metabolic pathways, suggesting potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for neuro- oncology. The study integrates genome-scale metabolic modeling with 16 S profiling to show that functional metabolic divergence can exist even when taxonomic differences are subtle, revealing overlooked biomarkers of the gut-brain axis in neuro-oncology.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
Female
Male
Middle Aged
Adult
*Brain Neoplasms/microbiology/metabolism
Cross-Sectional Studies
*Pituitary Neoplasms/microbiology/metabolism
Aged

@article {pmid40943646,
year = {2025},
author = {Kovenskiy, A and Katkenov, N and Ramazanova, A and Vinogradova, E and Jarmukhanov, Z and Mukhatayev, Z and Kushugulova, A},
title = {Bacteroides fragilis and Microbacterium as Microbial Signatures in Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {17},
pages = {},
pmid = {40943646},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {AP19675503//Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Bacteroides fragilis/genetics/isolation & purification ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Female ; Male ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Hashimoto Disease/microbiology ; Young Adult ; Adolescent ; Aged ; Feces/microbiology ; Metagenomics/methods ; *Actinobacteria/genetics ; Case-Control Studies ; },
abstract = {Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) and alopecia areata (AA) are organ-specific autoimmune diseases that frequently co-occur, suggesting shared immunological and microbial pathways. The gut microbiome has emerged as a key modulator of immune function, yet disease-specific microbial signatures remain poorly defined. Fecal samples from 51 participants (HT: n = 16, AA: n = 17, healthy controls: n = 18) aged 18-65 years were analyzed using shotgun metagenomic sequencing followed by multivariate statistical analyses. While alpha and beta diversity did not differ significantly across groups, taxonomic profiling revealed disease-specific microbial patterns. Bacteroides fragilis was significantly enriched in HT, suggesting a potential role in immune modulation; although mechanisms such as polysaccharide A production and molecular mimicry have been proposed in previous studies, their involvement in HT remains to be confirmed. Microbacterium sp. T32 was elevated in both HT and AA, indicating its potential as a shared autoimmune marker. Functional analysis showed increased fermentation and amino acid biosynthesis in AA, contrasting with reduced metabolic activity and elevated carbohydrate biosynthesis in HT. HT and AA exhibit distinct gut microbial and metabolic signatures. Bacteroides fragilis and Microbacterium sp. T32 may serve as potential microbial correlates for autoimmune activity, offering new insights into disease pathogenesis and targets for microbiome-based interventions.},
}

Humans
*Bacteroides fragilis/genetics/isolation & purification
Adult
Middle Aged
Female
Male
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Hashimoto Disease/microbiology
Young Adult
Adolescent
Aged
Feces/microbiology
Metagenomics/methods
*Actinobacteria/genetics
Case-Control Studies

@article {pmid40943581,
year = {2025},
author = {Gałęcki, R and Nowak, A and Szulc, J},
title = {Tenebrio molitor Meal-Induced Changes in Rat Gut Microbiota: Microbiological and Metagenomic Findings.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {17},
pages = {},
pmid = {40943581},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {LIDER/5/0029/ L-12/20/NCBR/2021//National Centre for Research and Development/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Tenebrio/chemistry ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics ; Rats ; Rats, Wistar ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Animal Feed ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Bacteria/genetics/classification ; Male ; Feces/microbiology ; },
abstract = {As demand for sustainable protein sources grows, edible insects like Tenebrio molitor (yellow mealworm) are gaining attention as functional feed ingredients. This study investigated how dietary inclusion of T. molitor meal affects gut microbiota composition and diversity in laboratory rats. Wistar rats were divided into three diet groups: standard feed, 35% chicken meal, and 35% T. molitor meal. Fecal samples were collected at weeks 4, 6, and 8. Microbial populations were assessed using culture-based methods, and community structure was analyzed at week 9 via Illumina MiSeq 16S rRNA sequencing. Bioinformatic analyses evaluated microbial diversity and predicted functions. Rats fed T. molitor meal showed significantly reduced counts of total aerobic/anaerobic bacteria, fungi, and coagulase-positive staphylococci. Metagenomics revealed a Firmicutes-dominated microbiota, with enrichment of protein- and cholesterol-metabolizing taxa (e.g., Eubacterium coprostanoligenes, Oscillospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae), and a decline in fiber- and mucin-degrading bacteria like Akkermansia and Muribaculaceae. Functional predictions indicated upregulated amino acid metabolism and chitin degradation. Despite compositional shifts, microbial diversity remained stable, with no signs of dysbiosis. These findings suggest that T. molitor meal supports a safe, functional adaptation of gut microbiota to high-protein, chitin-rich diets, supporting its potential use in monogastric animal nutrition.},
}

Animals
*Tenebrio/chemistry
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics
Rats
Rats, Wistar
*Metagenomics/methods
*Animal Feed
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Bacteria/genetics/classification
Male
Feces/microbiology

@article {pmid40943165,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, R and Ren, W and Liu, S and Li, Z and Li, L and Ma, S and Yao, X and Meng, J and Zeng, Y and Wang, J},
title = {Metagenomic Analysis Reveals the Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Mare Milk.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {17},
pages = {},
pmid = {40943165},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {2022A02007-1 and ZYYD2025JD02.//Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Major Science and Technology Special Project and the Central Guidance for Local Science and Technology Development Fund/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Horses ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/genetics ; *Milk/metabolism ; *Metagenomics/methods ; Mice ; *Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology ; Female ; Cytokines/metabolism ; },
abstract = {This study aimed to assess the anti-inflammatory properties of mare milk by analyzing immune markers in mice following gavage of mare milk. Metagenomic sequencing was employed to examine variations in the composition and functional profiles of the intestinal microbiota across different experimental groups. Bacterial diversity, abundance, and functional annotations of gut microbiota were evaluated for each group. The results show that, compared to the control group, the mare milk group exhibited a significant decrease in the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 levels and a significant increase in secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) levels (p < 0.05). The fermented mare milk group and the pasteurized fermented mare milk group demonstrated a significant downregulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β, along with a significant increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 levels (p < 0.05). Additionally, metagenomic analysis revealed that both the mare milk and fermented mare milk groups were able to regulate the imbalance of the intestinal microenvironment by improving the diversity of the gut microbiota and reshaping its structure. Specifically, the mare milk group enhanced gut barrier function by increasing the abundance of Bacteroides acidifaciens, while the fermented mare milk group increased the proportion of Bacillota and the relative abundance of beneficial bacterial genera such as Faecalibaculum and Bifidobacterium. KEGG pathway annotation highlighted prominent functions related to carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, followed by coenzyme and vitamin metabolism activities. In conclusion, mare milk and its fermented products demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in modulating immune responses and inhibiting inflammatory cascades. Additionally, the administration of mare milk enhances the composition and metabolic activity of intestinal microbiota in mice, supporting intestinal microecological balance and overall gut health, and offering valuable insights for the development of mare milk-based functional foods.},
}

Animals
Horses
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/genetics
*Milk/metabolism
*Metagenomics/methods
Mice
*Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology
Female
Cytokines/metabolism

@article {pmid40938427,
year = {2025},
author = {Sharma, S and Gajjar, B and Desai, C and Madamwar, D},
title = {Metagenomic analysis reveals the influence of wastewater discharge on the microbial community structures and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria at Mohar river, Gujarat.},
journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment},
volume = {197},
number = {10},
pages = {1112},
pmid = {40938427},
issn = {1573-2959},
support = {GSBTM/JD(R&D)/616/21-22/1236//Gujarat State Biotechnology Mission, Department of Science and Technology, Government of Gujarat/ ; },
mesh = {*Wastewater/microbiology/chemistry ; *Rivers/microbiology ; *Bacteria/genetics/classification ; India ; *Environmental Monitoring ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Metagenomics ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/analysis ; Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis ; *Water Microbiology ; *Microbiota ; },
abstract = {An extensive use of antibiotics has evolved bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and its spread through horizontal gene transfer within microbial communities of the natural environment. The water bodies receiving wastewater from sewage treatment plant (STP) serve as a conducive reservoir for the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB). This study revealed occurrence of multidrug-resistant and extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producing bacteria present in STP inlet (SI1), outlet (SO1), riverine environment receiving the STP wastewater (MP1), and control site (C1) of the river Mohar, Gujarat. Microbial community analysis revealed Proteobacteria and Firmicutes as dominating phyla in water samples of Mohar River sites. Shotgun analysis showed presence of antibiotic-degrading enzymes and pathways. The resistance profiling of ARBs showed the higher resistance towards cefotaxime at MP1 (77.4%), followed by SO1 (70.5%), SI1 (64.14%), and the least at C1 (57.13%). The highest ESBL isolates were observed at MP1 (96.42%), followed by SI1 (84.51%), SO1 (80.55%), and C1 (78.57%). Moreover, the RT-qPCR analysis for abundance of intI1 gene (responsible for HGT) showed a descending pattern from SI1 to the C1. The abundance of intI1 was found to correlate positively with mercury, chromium, and chlorine, and a negative correlation was observed with arsenic. The results obtained in this research suggest that AMR spreads and evolves in the water environment via discharge of wastewaters from STPs into the river ecosystems.},
}

*Wastewater/microbiology/chemistry
*Rivers/microbiology
*Bacteria/genetics/classification
India
*Environmental Monitoring
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Metagenomics
Anti-Bacterial Agents/analysis
Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis
*Water Microbiology
*Microbiota

@article {pmid40935093,
year = {2025},
author = {Marangi, M and Palladino, G and Valzano, F and Scicchitano, D and Turroni, S and Rampelli, S and Candela, M and Arena, F},
title = {Genetic characterization of enteric protozoan microorganisms in newly arrived migrants in Italy and correlation with the gut microbiome layout.},
journal = {Travel medicine and infectious disease},
volume = {67},
number = {},
pages = {102901},
doi = {10.1016/j.tmaid.2025.102901},
pmid = {40935093},
issn = {1873-0442},
abstract = {The prevalence of the enteric protozoan microorganisms, its genetic characterization as well as its associated gut microbiome has been molecularly and 16S metagenomic characterized in a cohort of newly arrived migrants in Italy from African countries over the period 2022-2024. Out of 199 individuals, 92 (46.2%) were found to be carrier of protozoan microorganisms with a higher prevalence of Blastocystis sp. (15.5%), followed by Giardia duodenalis (12.6%), Dientamoeba fragilis (7.5%), Cryptosporidium parvum (6.5%), and Entamoeba histolytica (4%). Subtypes ST1, ST2 and ST3 were genetically characterized for Blastocystis sp., assemblages A and B for G. duodenalis, subtypes families IIa and IIc for C. parvum and genotype 1 for D. fragilis. High prevalence of Butyrivibrio, Lachnospiraceae UGC 10 and Paraprevotella, were identified in the protozoan non-carrier individual group. This work shed lights on the circulation of enteric protozoan microorganisms in apparently healthy migrants from African countries and the potential relationship with the host-microbiome composition. Moreover, these results give an overview of the importance of microbiological surveys among migrants and asylum seekers arriving to hosting countries in order to evaluate the reliable risk of several microorganisms introduction though migration. Ultimately, further investigation of interplays between the intestinal microbiota and protozoan microorganisms will provide new approaches in the diagnosis and treatment of intestinal infections.},
}

@article {pmid40933366,
year = {2025},
author = {Gutleben, J and Podell, S and Mizell, K and Sweeney, D and Neira, C and Levin, LA and Jensen, PR},
title = {Extremophile hotspots linked to containerized industrial waste dumping in a deep-sea basin.},
journal = {PNAS nexus},
volume = {4},
number = {9},
pages = {pgaf260},
pmid = {40933366},
issn = {2752-6542},
abstract = {Decaying barrels on the seafloor linked to DDT contamination have raised concerns about the public health implications of decades old industrial waste dumped off the coast of Los Angeles. To explore their contents, we collected sediment cores perpendicular to five deep-sea barrels. The concentration of DDT and its breakdown products were highly elevated relative to control sites yet did not vary with distance from the barrels, suggesting that they were not associated with the contamination. Sediment cores collected through white halos surrounding three barrels were enriched in calcite and had elevated pH. The associated microbial communities were low diversity and dominated by alkalophilic bacteria with metagenome-assembled genomes adapted to high pH. A solid concretion sampled between a white halo and barrel was composed of brucite, a magnesium hydroxide mineral that forms at high pH. Based on these findings, we postulate that leakage of containerized alkaline waste triggered the formation of mineral concretions that are slowly dissolving and raising the pH of the surrounding sediment pore water. This selects for taxa adapted to extreme alkalinity and drives the precipitation of "anthropogenic" carbonates forming white halos, which serve as a visual identifier of barrels that contained alkaline waste. Remarkably, containerized alkaline waste discarded >50 years ago represents a persistent pollutant creating localized mineral formations and microbial communities that resemble those observed at some hydrothermal systems. These formations were observed at one-third of the visually identified barrels in the San Pedro Basin and have unforeseen, long-term consequences for benthic communities in the region.},
}

@article {pmid40931350,
year = {2025},
author = {Ye, G and Hong, H and Li, T and Li, J and Wu, JQ and Jiang, S and Meng, ZT and Yuan, HT and Xue, W and Li, AL and Zhou, T and Li, TT and Li, T},
title = {MAGdb: a comprehensive high quality MAGs repository for exploring microbial metagenome-assemble genomes.},
journal = {Genome biology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {276},
pmid = {40931350},
issn = {1474-760X},
support = {No. 32100421//China National Natural Science Foundation/ ; No. 82341098//China National Natural Science Foundation/ ; No. 82130052//China National Natural Science Foundation/ ; No. NSS2021CI05002//Nanhu Laboratory/ ; No. 2024ZYYDSA400333//The Central Government Guides Local Science and Technology Development Fund Projects/ ; },
mesh = {*Metagenome ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Databases, Genetic ; *Microbiota ; },
abstract = {Metagenomic analyses of microbial communities have unveiled a substantial level of interspecies and intraspecies genetic diversity by reconstructing metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs). The MAG database (MAGdb) boasts an impressive collection of 74 representative research papers, spanning clinical, environmental, and animal categories and comprising 13,702 paired-end run accessions of metagenomic sequencing and 99,672 high quality MAGs with manually curated metadata. MAGdb provides a user-friendly interface that users can browse, search, and download MAGs and their corresponding metadata information. It represents a valuable resource for researchers in discovering potential novel microbial lineages and understanding their ecological roles. MAGdb is publicly available at https://magdb.nanhulab.ac.cn/ .},
}

*Metagenome
*Metagenomics/methods
*Databases, Genetic
*Microbiota

@article {pmid40929881,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, Y and Li, K and Xu, J and Shen, W and Li, Y and Ma, J and Wang, T and Liu, J and Li, T and Zhang, X and Tian, W and Tian, J and Wang, H and Zhang, X},
title = {Alpha-linolenic acid ameliorates T2DM via reshaping gut-liver axis and inflammatory GPR120-NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway in mouse and rat models.},
journal = {Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology},
volume = {147},
number = {},
pages = {157214},
doi = {10.1016/j.phymed.2025.157214},
pmid = {40929881},
issn = {1618-095X},
mesh = {Animals ; *alpha-Linolenic Acid/pharmacology ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/drug therapy/metabolism ; Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; Male ; Mice ; Liver/drug effects/metabolism ; NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/metabolism ; NF-kappa B/metabolism ; Rats ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Disease Models, Animal ; Insulin Resistance ; Inflammation/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The gut-liver axis, pivotal in managing glucose balance and insulin responsiveness, is central to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Research has highlighted the regulatory effects of dietary alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), but it remains unclear how ALA modulates gut microbiota and liver inflammation in T2DM.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to systematically investigate ALA's influence on liver inflammation, intestinal barrier integrity, gut microbial composition, and metabolic homeostasis in T2DM, with a focus on the underlying molecular mechanisms.

STUDY DESIGN: A dual-model approach was employed using both db/db mouse model and the SCZ/NA-induced T2DM rat model to ensure robust species and model validation.

METHODS: Animals received oral ALA supplementation, followed by assessments of glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, hepatic histology, and inflammatory markers. Intestinal barrier function, permeability, and systemic LPS levels were evaluated. Mechanistic analysis focused on the GPR120-NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway. Multi-omics profiling including fecal metagenomics, SCFA quantification, and plasma metabolomics were conducted to assess gut microbiota and host metabolic responses.

RESULTS: Our results revealed that ALA therapy significantly mitigated insulin resistance and glucose intolerance in db/db mice. Histopathological analysis revealed a decrease in hepatic steatosis following ALA administration, alongside a reduction in inflammatory markers indicative of T2DM. Importantly, our findings demonstrated that ALA mitigates liver inflammation by inhibiting the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway, possibly via its interaction with GPR120. Beyond this, augmenting ALA bolstered intestinal integrity, minimized permeability, curbed lipopolysaccharide leakage, and suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokine expression within the intestines. Significantly, an integrated multi-omics investigation, encompassing fecal metagenomic sequencing, SCFA evaluation, and plasma non-targeted metabolomics, disclosed a potent correlation between ALA's hypoglycemic efficacy and the modulation of gut microbial community structure, elevation of SCFA synthesis, and enhancement of metabolic signatures.

CONCLUSION: Our study's initial insights indicated that dietary ALA modulates inflammation and metabolism in T2DM via the gut-liver axis, specifically through the GPR120-NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. This elucidates ALA's dual function in reshaping the gut microbiota and combating systemic inflammation, positioning it as a potentially efficacious dietary component for managing T2DM.},
}

Animals
*alpha-Linolenic Acid/pharmacology
*Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/drug therapy/metabolism
Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism
Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
Male
Mice
Liver/drug effects/metabolism
NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/metabolism
NF-kappa B/metabolism
Rats
Signal Transduction/drug effects
Mice, Inbred C57BL
Disease Models, Animal
Insulin Resistance
Inflammation/drug therapy

@article {pmid40929115,
year = {2025},
author = {Gonzalez, FL and Kettenburg, G and Ranaivoson, HC and Andrianiaina, A and Andry, S and Raharinosy, V and Randriambolamanantsoa, TH and Lacoste, V and Dussart, P and Héraud, JM and Brook, CE},
title = {Genomic characterization of novel bat kobuviruses in Madagascar: Implications for viral evolution and zoonotic risk.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {9},
pages = {e0331736},
pmid = {40929115},
issn = {1932-6203},
support = {DP2 AI171120/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI129822/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R25 GM066522/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {*Chiroptera/virology ; Animals ; Madagascar ; Phylogeny ; *Zoonoses/virology ; *Genome, Viral ; *Evolution, Molecular ; *Viral Zoonoses/virology ; Humans ; Genomics ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; *Picornaviridae Infections/virology/veterinary/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Kobuviruses (family Picornaviridae, genus Kobuvirus) are enteric viruses that infect a wide range of both human and animal hosts. Much of the evolutionary history of kobuviruses remains elusive, largely due to limited screening in wildlife. Bats have been implicated as major sources of virulent zoonoses, including coronaviruses, henipaviruses, lyssaviruses, and filoviruses, though much of the bat virome still remains uncharacterized. While most bat virus research has historically focused on immediately recognizable zoonotic clades (e.g., SARS-related coronaviruses), a handful of prior reports catalog kobuvirus carriage in bats and posit the role of bats as progenitors of downstream kobuvirus evolution. As part of a multi-year study, we carried out metagenomic Next Generation Sequencing (mNGS) on fecal samples obtained from endemic, wild-caught Madagascar fruit bats to characterize potentially zoonotic viruses circulating within these populations. The wild bats of Madagascar represent diverse Asian and African phylogeographic histories, presenting a unique opportunity for viruses from disparate origins to mix, posing a significant public health threat. Here, we report detection of kobuvirus RNA in Malagasy fruit bats (Eidolon dupreanum) and undertake phylogenetic characterization of Malagasy kobuvirus sequences, which nest within the Aichivirus A clade - a kobuvirus clade known to infect a wide range of hosts including humans, rodents, canids, felids, birds, and bats. Given the propensity of kobuviruses for recombination and cross-species transmission, further characterization of this clade is critical for accurate evaluation of future zoonotic threats.},
}

*Chiroptera/virology
Animals
Madagascar
Phylogeny
*Zoonoses/virology
*Genome, Viral
*Evolution, Molecular
*Viral Zoonoses/virology
Humans
Genomics
High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing
*Picornaviridae Infections/virology/veterinary/epidemiology

@article {pmid40927879,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, X and Wang, J and Chen, J and Bezemer, TM and Song, Z and Wanek, W and Liu, G and Zhang, C},
title = {Environmental Stresses Constrain Soil Microbial Community Functions by Regulating Deterministic Assembly and Niche Width.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70096},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70096},
pmid = {40927879},
issn = {1365-294X},
support = {2023YFF1305103//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 42130717//National Sciences Foundation of China/ ; 42177449//National Sciences Foundation of China/ ; 2024JC-JCQN-35//Shaanxi Provincial Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars/ ; },
abstract = {Increasing evidence indicates that the loss of soil microbial α-diversity triggered by environmental stress negatively impacts microbial functions; however, the effects of microbial α-diversity on community functions under environmental stress are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the changes in bacterial and fungal α- diversity along gradients of five natural stressors (temperature, precipitation, plant diversity, soil organic C and pH) across 45 grasslands in China and evaluated their connection with microbial functional traits. By quantifying the five environmental stresses into an integrated stress index, we found that the bacterial and fungal α-diversity declined under high environmental stress across three soil layers (0-20 cm, 20-40 cm and 40-60 cm). Metagenomic-based analyses showed that the diversity of functional genes decreased along the stress gradients. High stress enhanced the abundance of genes associated with broad functional categories (e.g., glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, TCA cycle, DNA replication/repair and cell growth/death) but reduced the abundance of genes linked to specialised functional categories (e.g., C, N, S and methane metabolism). Phylogenetic null models and niche analyses indicated that stochastic assembly processes predominated in high-diversity communities, in which bacterial and fungal taxa had a narrow ecological niche. However, in low-diversity communities, deterministic assembly processes were dominant, and taxa had wide niches, correlating with the reduction in gene abundance observed for broad and specialised functional categories. Given the essential role of the microbiome in regulating ecosystem functions, our findings suggest that low-diversity-induced deterministic community assembly processes and a wide niche under high environmental stress may regulate microbial functions. These findings emphasise the ecological mechanisms through which microbial biodiversity regulates terrestrial ecosystem functioning.},
}