@article {pmid41714084,
year = {2026},
author = {Mishra, R and Kumar, SS and Panda, TS and Mahapatra, S and Prasad, P},
title = {Live biotherapeutics in cancer therapy.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {220},
number = {},
pages = {361-403},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2026.01.002},
pmid = {41714084},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neoplasms/therapy/microbiology ; *Biological Therapy/methods ; Animals ; *Biological Products/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Cancer poses a global challenge in diagnostics and therapeutics. Treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and immunotherapy have significantly decreased the fatality rate, but drug resistance, therapy side effects, and relapse remain as major concerns. Live biotherapeutics are microorganisms that can be developed as therapeutic agents to modulate cancer pathophysiology and aid in disease management. Live biotherapeutic products (LBPs) have the potential to suppress tumour growth, enhance the effectiveness of conventional therapies, and reduce treatment-related side effects. Dysbiosis in the gut and cancer-specific tissues is linked to cancers of the colon, stomach, pancreas, and liver. Live biotherapeutics aim either to re-establish microbial balance or to employ microbes directly as anticancer tools. Both native and engineered LBPs (bacteria and viruses) represent promising interventions that may form part of next-generation cancer treatment strategies. Their clinical application draws on the integration of microbiology, immunology, synthetic biology, and oncology. LBPs can be used to target cancer cells by delivering antitumour payloads such as immune modulators, toxins, exposing cancer antigens, and molecules for targeted killing. LBPs offer advantages such as reduced systemic toxicity, overcoming drug resistance, and synergy with chemo-, radio-, and immunotherapies. Despite challenges in safety, manufacturing, regulation, and personalization, advances in synthetic biology and omics are enabling precision approaches. Future innovations such as bacteriobots, biocontainment systems, and patient-specific microbiome integration highlight their potential as next-generation cancer therapeutics.},
}

Humans
*Neoplasms/therapy/microbiology
*Biological Therapy/methods
Animals
*Biological Products/therapeutic use

@article {pmid41714082,
year = {2026},
author = {Mahajan, S and Nk, A and Banerjee, SK},
title = {Recent advances of microbial medicine to prevent and treat cardiovascular disease.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {220},
number = {},
pages = {305-337},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2026.01.028},
pmid = {41714082},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/therapy/prevention & control/microbiology ; Animals ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Fecal Microbiota Transplantation ; Probiotics/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of global mortality, with standard pharmacological interventions often failing to fully address their complex pathophysiology. Recent advances in microbial medicine highlight the human gut microbiome as a critical regulator of cardiovascular health. Gut microbial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), and indole derivatives play pivotal roles in modulating inflammation, lipid metabolism, immune function, and vascular homeostasis. Dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, has been strongly associated with atherosclerosis, hypertension, and heart failure. Consequently, therapies targeting the gut microbiota including probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics have emerged as promising adjuncts in CVD prevention and treatment. Moreover, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and synthetic biology approaches using engineered microbes offer novel strategies to restore microbial balance and deliver therapeutic molecules. Dietary interventions, particularly Mediterranean and fiber-rich diets, further support cardiovascular health through microbiota modulation. While preclinical and clinical studies underscore the potential of microbiome-based interventions, challenges related to strain specificity, delivery systems, and regulatory frameworks remain. Nonetheless, integrating microbial medicine into cardiovascular care represents a transformative shift toward precision, holistic, and personalized treatment paradigms. This chapter explores these cutting-edge therapeutic interventions and their implications for reshaping the future landscape of cardiovascular disease management.},
}

Humans
*Cardiovascular Diseases/therapy/prevention & control/microbiology
Animals
Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation
Probiotics/therapeutic use

@article {pmid41714081,
year = {2026},
author = {Narendrakumar, L and Dhiman, P and Das, B},
title = {The human reproductive tract microbiome: A novel source of live biotherapeutics.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {220},
number = {},
pages = {267-303},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2026.01.027},
pmid = {41714081},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *Microbiota ; Female ; *Biological Therapy ; Vagina/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Live biotherapeutics which are live microorganisms with clinically validated therapeutic benefits are rapidly emerging as innovative interventions for a broad spectrum of health disorders. The human reproductive tract, particularly the female vagina is home to specific microbial community that play a vital role in maintaining mucosal immunity, preventing pathogen colonization and supporting successful pregnancy outcomes. Disruption to this microbial balance have been strongly associated with conditions such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), sexually transmitted infections (STI), infertility and pregnancy complications such as pre-term birth. Given the adverse effects of conventional pharmaceutical treatments, microbiome based therapeutic strategies are gaining increasing popularity as safer and more sustainable alternatives. Recent advancements in synthetic biology, genetic engineering and microbiome science have enabled the development of next generation live biotherapeutics that go beyond traditional probiotics which are intended for only maintaining general health. This chapter explores the human reproductive tract microbiome as a novel and promising source of live biotherapeutics candidates. We examine the composition and functional potential of microbial communities within the reproductive tract, the mechanisms by which they interact with the host, and the emerging evidence supporting the therapeutic applications of vaginally isolated microorganisms. Additionally, we highlight recent advancements in research focused on reproductive tract microbiome, strategies of mining live biotherapeutic product (LBP) candidates, and enlist few potential vaginal origin-LBPs and their associated studies. In addition, this chapter briefly introduces emerging strategies aimed at addressing reproductive health challenges such as vaginal microbiome transplantation (VMT) as innovative tool for addressing persistent challenges in reproductive health.},
}

Humans
*Microbiota
Female
*Biological Therapy
Vagina/microbiology

@article {pmid41714079,
year = {2026},
author = {Bhowmick, J and Bagchi, A},
title = {Fecal microbiota transplantation in liver diseases: Therapeutic potential and associated risks.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {220},
number = {},
pages = {229-246},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2026.01.001},
pmid = {41714079},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *Fecal Microbiota Transplantation/adverse effects ; *Liver Diseases/therapy/microbiology ; Risk Factors ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a biologically coherent strategy to modulate the gut-liver axis by restoring ecosystem structure and function. This chapter synthesizes current evidence and practice of FMT in various liver disease conditions. In cirrhosis with recurrent hepatic encephalopathy (HE), randomized trials demonstrate adjunctive benefits of FMT, reducing recurrence and hospitalizations as well as improving cognition, with route flexibility (lower-GI infusions or oral capsules) and emerging microbiome predictors of response. In severe alcohol-associated hepatitis and ACLF, early single-center trials suggest fewer infections and short-term survival gains, warranting confirmation in multicenter, blinded studies for further outcomes. For MASLD/MASH, FMT consistently shifts intestinal permeability, bile-acid signatures, and hepatic transcriptomics, although it has not reliably improved MRI-PDFF or insulin resistance in unselected cohorts; future success likely requires phenotype enrichment and function-matched donors or defined consortia. Data in chronic hepatitis B remain exploratory, positioning FMT, if at all, as an adjunct to antivirals. Methods are standardized around rigorous donor screening, controlled manufacturing, indication-specific endpoints, and strain-resolved engraftment analytics linking mechanism to outcome. Refractory Clostridium difficile is the only FDA-approved indication of FMT. Use of FMT in hepatology use should remain protocolled and regulated. Priorities include precision donor matching, next-generation consortia, platform trials, and long-term safety registries.},
}

Humans
*Fecal Microbiota Transplantation/adverse effects
*Liver Diseases/therapy/microbiology
Risk Factors
Animals

@article {pmid41714078,
year = {2026},
author = {Swamy, P and Singh, L and Sehrawat, P and Mahajan, D},
title = {Recombinant live biotherapeutics against chronic metabolic diseases: Challenges and opportunities.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {220},
number = {},
pages = {209-227},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2026.01.008},
pmid = {41714078},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *Metabolic Diseases/therapy/drug therapy ; Chronic Disease ; Animals ; *Recombinant Proteins/therapeutic use ; *Biological Therapy/methods ; *Biological Products/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Chronic metabolic diseases (CMDs) such as obesity, type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM), metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) represent an escalating global health crisis. The etiology and pathophysiology of CMDs are linked to persistent metabolic, inflammatory, and gut microbiome dysfunctions. Recombinant Live Biotherapeutic Products (rLBPs) are engineered microbes designed to deliver targeted metabolic, anti-inflammatory, or hormonal effects in situ, offering a promising alternative to conventional therapies. The development of the rLBPs is expected to bring a paradigm shift in the clinical management of chronic diseases. This chapter provides an overview of rLBPs by highlighting seminal examples of rLBPs, which are in the early phase of development for CMDs. It also deliberates on existing scientific, technical and regulatory challenges along with potential opportunities associated with the development of rLBPs.},
}

Humans
*Metabolic Diseases/therapy/drug therapy
Chronic Disease
Animals
*Recombinant Proteins/therapeutic use
*Biological Therapy/methods
*Biological Products/therapeutic use

@article {pmid41714075,
year = {2026},
author = {Konar, D},
title = {Clinical applications of live biotherapeutics: Current trends and future prospects.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {220},
number = {},
pages = {103-138},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2026.01.003},
pmid = {41714075},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Biological Therapy/trends/methods ; *Biological Products/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Live biotherapeutic (LBP) is defined by the FDA as a biological product that: (1) contains live organisms, such as bacteria; (2) applies to the prevention, treatment, or cure of a disease or condition of human beings; and (3) is not a vaccine. Progress in microbiome science and the limitations of antibiotics have necessitated the use of LBPs to complement or replace conventional therapies across multiple medical disciplines. The most important advancement is in the infectious disease domain, where fecal microbiota transplantation validated ecological restoration for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection and paved the way for the first approved LBPs (REBYOTA® and VOWST™/SER-109). Constructing rational microbial consortia and strain-level strategies aim to induce commensal resilience and prevent the establishment of multidrug-resistant organisms. In oncology, gut microbial composition modulates response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. So, defined microbial consortia and engineered E. coli Nissle are being developed to enhance antitumor immunity and localize payloads. Early studies in animals and humans also support the application of this approach in metabolic disease, allergy, and oral health. Translation from benchside to bedside, however, is fraught with hurdles-variable patient response, manufacturing consistency, safety standards, cost, and ethics-exacerbated by heterogeneous global regulations, underscoring the need for harmonization. Precision microbial consortia, programmable "living medicines," and biohybrid formulations could extend LBPs into broader indications and global health, shifting practice toward an ecological model of therapeutics.},
}

Humans
Animals
*Biological Therapy/trends/methods
*Biological Products/therapeutic use

@article {pmid41714074,
year = {2026},
author = {Kandiyal, B and Gupta, M and Das, B},
title = {Live biotherapeutics: Emerging trends and future directions in microbial therapy.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {220},
number = {},
pages = {1-35},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2025.12.001},
pmid = {41714074},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biological Therapy/trends/methods ; Animals ; Probiotics/therapeutic use ; *Biological Products/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Live Biotherapeutic Products (LBPs) represent a promising and rapidly advancing class of therapeutics that harness live microorganisms to prevent, treat, or manage a wide spectrum of health disorders. Distinct from traditional probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics, LBPs are rigorously developed and regulated as medicinal products with defined compositions, mechanisms of action, and clinical indications. Looking ahead, the therapeutic potential of LBPs is expanding well beyond gastrointestinal disorders, with promising applications in areas such as metabolic, neurological, and immune-mediated diseases. Their integration into precision medicine frameworks holds significant promise for shaping the future of public health. This chapter provides an overview of currently available LBPs, their mode of actions, clinical applications, and the regulatory frameworks that distinguish them from other microbial-based therapies. It also highlights the growing diversity of LBPs from single-strain products to engineered microbial communities and natural formulations, emphasizing their unique clinical value and increasingly advanced mechanisms of action. The clinical development of LBPs faces key challenges, including strain selection, complex manufacturing, viability issue and safety concerns in vulnerable populations with comorbidities, and navigating evolving regulatory frameworks. Advances in synthetic biology, CRISPR genome editing, and multi-omics are transforming LBP design, enabling more precise and personalized therapies. The evolving LBP landscape with key industry players, clinical trials, and strategic partnerships offers critical insights into the innovation and commercialization driving this dynamic field.},
}

Humans
*Biological Therapy/trends/methods
Animals
Probiotics/therapeutic use
*Biological Products/therapeutic use

@article {pmid41713874,
year = {2026},
author = {Busch, S and Ferrario, PG and Henk, AK and Engelbert, AK and Wittek, O and Seifert, S and Bub, A and Mack, CI and Hieronimus, B},
title = {Effects of Allulose vs Aspartame Consumption on Postprandial Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Profiles and Metabolic Health: Protocol for a Randomized, Crossover, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.},
journal = {JMIR research protocols},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {e81857},
doi = {10.2196/81857},
pmid = {41713874},
issn = {1929-0748},
mesh = {Humans ; *Aspartame/administration & dosage/pharmacology ; Cross-Over Studies ; Double-Blind Method ; *Glucagon-Like Peptide 1/metabolism/blood ; Adult ; *Postprandial Period/drug effects ; Male ; Female ; *Fructose/administration & dosage/pharmacology ; Sweetening Agents/administration & dosage/pharmacology ; Young Adult ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Blood Glucose ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Excessive sugar consumption is a public health concern. Allulose, a low-calorie sugar with similar functional properties to sucrose, offers potential metabolic benefits. Animal and limited human studies suggest it may stimulate glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion, improve glucose regulation, and support weight management. However, evidence to substantiate these effects in humans remains scarce.

OBJECTIVE: The primary aim of this study, the low-calorie sweetener intervention study allulose (LisA), was to assess differences in the postprandial GLP-1 profile (primary outcome) between an acute intake of allulose and aspartame interventions in healthy adults. Secondary goals included exploratively assessing potential subacute adaptation effects over a 4-week consumption period and evaluating a comprehensive set of parameters as hypothesis-generating findings for future large-scale research.

METHODS: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial in healthy adults. Participants daily consumed either 3 allulose-sweetened or aspartame-sweetened beverages for 4 weeks in crossover, with a washout in between. Standardized inpatient procedures were conducted at the study baseline and at the beginning and end of each intervention phase. The primary outcome is the postprandial profile of GLP-1. Secondary outcomes include further parameters of gut hormone secretion, insulin sensitivity (Matsuda Index), body composition (body impedance analysis), subjective satiety (visual analog scales), and gastrointestinal tolerance. We also assess multiomic endpoints, including sugaromics and gut microbiome composition. The primary outcome will be analyzed using the incremental area under the curve with a 2-tailed paired t test. All further outcomes (including peak and total area under the curve for GLP-1) will be assessed using linear mixed models.

RESULTS: A total of 10 participants (4 female and 6 male; mean age 31.2, SD 6.8 years; BMI 25.1, SD 2.6 kg/m[2]) completed all study procedures. The sample collection phase was successfully concluded in November 2023. Data processing and statistical analysis for the primary outcome are expected to be completed by June 2026.

CONCLUSIONS: The comprehensive study protocol, integrating a rigorous crossover design with multiomic analysis, is poised to provide confirmatory evidence for the acute GLP-1 effects of allulose and generate valuable mechanistic hypotheses regarding its subacute metabolic and gut health effects. The findings will contribute to the evidence base required for evaluating allulose's potential role in public health sugar reduction strategies.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00028521; https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00028521.

DERR1-10.2196/81857.},
}

Humans
*Aspartame/administration & dosage/pharmacology
Cross-Over Studies
Double-Blind Method
*Glucagon-Like Peptide 1/metabolism/blood
Adult
*Postprandial Period/drug effects
Male
Female
*Fructose/administration & dosage/pharmacology
Sweetening Agents/administration & dosage/pharmacology
Young Adult
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Blood Glucose

@article {pmid41713825,
year = {2026},
author = {Lemser, CE and Koziol, A and Boelt, SG and MacSween, N and Ernst, M and Jess, T and Ottosson, F},
title = {Pre-diagnostic Changes in the Metabolome of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.},
journal = {Clinical gastroenterology and hepatology : the official clinical practice journal of the American Gastroenterological Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cgh.2026.02.011},
pmid = {41713825},
issn = {1542-7714},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Serum metabolites reflect genetics, environmental exposures, and the gut microbiome. We analyzed changes in the serum metabolome up to 14 years before the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to identify early biomarkers and uncover pathophysiological changes during the pre-diagnostic phase.

METHODS: The Danish PREDICT cohort was established by cross-linking nationwide health registries with the Danish National Biobank to identify patients with pre-diagnostic serum samples. A total of 169 IBD individuals (72 Crohn's disease, CD; 97 ulcerative colitis, UC) and 169 matched controls were included for untargeted profiling to investigate pre-diagnostic alterations in the serum metabolome, timing of metabolomic changes, and their ability to predict IBD.

RESULTS: A total of 1,206 metabolites were significantly altered prior to IBD diagnosis (padj<0.05). For CD, 882 metabolites were significantly altered, with significant enrichment of eicosanoids, fatty acids, and glycerophosphocholines, including bioactive lipids linked to inflammation. Of these 882 metabolites, 570 (65%) were also nominally associated with UC. Metabolites were altered up to 14 years prior to diagnosis and predicted CD with an AUC of 0.78.

CONCLUSION: We identified alterations in >1000 metabolites up to 14 years prior to diagnosis of IBD, most pronounced in individuals with later CD. Our findings suggest a long pre-clinical phase of IBD, where mucosal breakdown contributes to production of inflammation-modulating lipids.},
}

@article {pmid41713731,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, J and Hu, R and Zheng, J and Ju, Q and Liu, Y and Chen, S and Liu, Z and Lei, Y and Yang, J and Zhang, D and Shen, W},
title = {Modulation of the intestinal microbiome and reversal of the immunosuppressive microenvironment by nanoparticles for chemoimmunotherapy in prostate cancer.},
journal = {Journal of advanced research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jare.2026.02.027},
pmid = {41713731},
issn = {2090-1224},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Prostate cancer (PCa), a "cold" tumor with an immunosuppressive microenvironment, exhibits poor sensitivity to immunotherapies, limiting treatment efficacy. Chemotherapeutics often cause intestinal injury and disrupt gut microbiota, further impairing chemoimmunotherapy outcomes. Modulating gut microbiota to reverse immunosuppression represents a potential strategy to enhance PCa treatment.

OBJECTIVES: To develop a novel therapeutic strategy using nanomedicine to regulate intestinal flora, thereby reversing the immunosuppressive microenvironment and improving chemoimmunotherapy efficacy in PCa.

METHODS: Cabazitaxel (CBZ)-loaded, folic acid (FA)-modified pH/ROS dual-responsive nanoparticles (CBZ/FA-CA-OCD NPs) were fabricated. In vitro and in vivo experiments evaluated NPs accumulation, cellular internalization (via FA-mediated endocytosis), drug release, intestinal mucosal injury, and tumor growth inhibition. Gut microbiota modulation (e.g., Lachnospiraceae, Firmicutes, Muribaculaceae, Bacteroidota) and CD4[+]/CD8[+] T-cell infiltration were assessed. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) validated microbiota-mediated immune effects.

RESULTS: The CBZ/FA-CA-OCD NPs accumulated in PCa tissues were internalized by PC-3/LNCaP cells and released CBZ in acidic/ROS microenvironments to inhibit tumor growth. Compared to free CBZ, NPs attenuated intestinal injury, modulated microbiota (increased Lachnospiraceae/Firmicutes, decreased Muribaculaceae/Bacteroidota), and enhanced anti-PD-1 efficacy by increasing CD4[+]/CD8[+] T-cell infiltration. FMT confirmed that microbiota from NP-treated mice promoted T-cell infiltration in tumors.

CONCLUSION: CBZ/FA-CA-OCD NPs improve PCa chemoimmunotherapy by regulating gut microbiota, reversing immunosuppression, and enhancing T-cell infiltration. This nanomedicine-based strategy provides a promising approach to boost PCa treatment outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41713718,
year = {2026},
author = {Koch, M and Umek, W and Makristathis, A and Hausmann, B and Bodner-Adler, B and Krögler-Halpern, K and Dibon, A and Loimer, R and Bauer, R and Heinzl, F and Carlin, G},
title = {Altered microbial colonization of the urogenital tract in female overactive bladder syndrome.},
journal = {American journal of obstetrics and gynecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.ajog.2026.02.023},
pmid = {41713718},
issn = {1097-6868},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The discovery of a resident urinary microbiome has challenged the long-standing view of the bladder as sterile. Overactive bladder (OAB), a common and burdensome condition, has been linked to urinary dysbiosis, yet the origins of bladder colonization and its relationship to adjacent microbiomes remain unclear.

OBJECTIVES: to compare the urinary microbiome profiles of women with OAB to those of healthy controls, to assess intra-individual relationships between the urinary and other urogenital or mucosal microbiomes-including the vaginal, urethral, buccal sites and stool-and to identify potential colonization pathways by analyzing microbial overlap within and between individuals.

STUDY DESIGN: In a cross-sectional study, we profiled the microbiomes of 50 women with OAB and 49 healthy controls across urine, urethra, vagina, oral cavity and stool. DNA was extracted using standardized protocols and the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was sequenced on the Illumina MiSeq platform. Reads were processed with DADA2 and taxonomically classified using the SILVA database. Diversity metrics (alpha and beta diversity), differential abundance testing (DESeq2), and cross-site microbial overlap analyses were performed in R using established packages (phyloseq, vegan, mia, microViz). Subgroup analyses accounted for menopausal status.

RESULTS: OAB cases exhibited higher alpha diversity in urethral and vaginal samples and significantly different beta diversity across all sites compared with controls (p < 0.004). The urethra of OAB cases contained reduced Lactobacillus but was enriched with Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, Gardnerella, Hydrotalea, Streptococcus, and other genera. Six taxa (Alistipes, Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, Bradyrhizobium, Hydrotalea, Neisseria) consistently met thresholds for abundance and prevalence in urethra and were also elevated in OAB urine, vagina, and oral cavity, but not stool. Intra-individual analyses showed greater urethra-urine and urethra-vagina divergence in OAB than in controls, indicating disruption of the normal microbial continuum. Subgroup analyses confirmed between-group differences irrespective of menopausal status. Notably, dysbiosis in OAB overrode the pre/postmenopausal contrasts observed in controls.

CONCLUSIONS: Women with OAB seem to have a distinct multi-site dysbiosis, most pronounced in the urogenital tract, characterized by loss of Lactobacillus and enrichment of select taxa across urethra, urine, vagina, and oral cavity. The observed microbial overlap across urogenital sites, compared with stool, is consistent with predominant urogenital microbial relatedness in this cross-sectional cohort. These findings provide insight into microbiome alterations in OAB and highlight the need for longitudinal studies to clarify mechanisms and evaluate potential microbiome targeted strategies. Given the cross-sectional design, these findings describe associations and cannot establish causality or the directionality of microbial transmission between compartments.},
}

@article {pmid41713485,
year = {2026},
author = {Leach, ST and Wheeler, T and Bowcock, N and Aitchison, A and Lemberg, DA and Day, AS},
title = {The emerging roles of intestinal organoid models in inflammatory bowel disease research.},
journal = {Expert review of gastroenterology & hepatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/17474124.2026.2635421},
pmid = {41713485},
issn = {1747-4132},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The chronic immune mediated gastrointestinal disease, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), is increasing in prevalence. However, IBD pathogenesis remains unclear despite decades of research. Therefore, new methods and models of disease are required to gain further insights into IBD pathogenesis. Recent advances in stem cell culture technology now allows for the routine in vitro culture of stem cells derived from an individual. These in vitro stem cells can differentiate into cell-types and cell clusters that resemble the tissue origin of the stem cells. These cell clusters have been termed organoids.

AREAS COVERED: Following review of recent available literature, the goal of this review was to specifically focus on intestinal organoids and provide basic methodology of organoid derivation. The review will also discuss the current and potential applications of intestinal organoid models in Gastroenterology research including IBD pathogenesis, host-microbiome interactions, therapeutic response and drug discovery, very-early onset IBD, organ-on-a-chip and bioprinted models.

EXPERT OPINION: Organoids offer tangible benefits for improved patient outcomes particularly with respect to personalized medicine approaches to IBD management.},
}

@article {pmid41713418,
year = {2026},
author = {Shao, Y and Wang, S and Gichuki, BM and Stares, MD and Rozday, TJ and Kumar, N and Browne, HP and Dawson, NJR and Njunge, JM and Tigoi, C and Ngao, N and Chisti, MJ and Singa, BO and Kariuki, S and Diallo, AH and Saleem, AF and Ali, SA and Mupere, E and Mbale, E and Tickell, KD and Voskuijl, WP and Lancioni, CL and Bandsma, RHJ and Ahmed, T and Walson, JL and Berkley, JA and Lawley, TD},
title = {Genomic atlas of Bifidobacterium infantis and B. longum informs infant probiotic design.},
journal = {Cell},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cell.2026.01.007},
pmid = {41713418},
issn = {1097-4172},
abstract = {Bifidobacterium longum and B. infantis are pioneer colonizers of the neonatal gut and are widely used as probiotics to support infant growth, development, and disease resistance. However, commercial strains derived largely from high-income countries (HICs) may be suboptimal for infants in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We assembled a global genomic atlas of more than 4,000 genomes from 48 countries, increasing representation from LMICs by 12- to 17-fold. High-resolution phylogenomic and functional analyses support delineating B. longum and B. infantis as distinct species with divergent functions and epidemiological patterns. B. infantis dominates early-life microbiota in LMICs but is rarely detected in HICs. Natural B. infantis strains show extreme biogeographic stratification and predicted adaptations to local plant-glycan-rich diets and breast-milk-derived substrates, including urea and B vitamins. This genomic resource enables genome-guided selection of geographically matched strains to inform more effective probiotics and precision microbiome therapeutics for diverse infant populations.},
}

@article {pmid41713400,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, XW and Wang, T and Liu, YY},
title = {Artificial intelligence for microbiology and microbiome research.},
journal = {Cell systems},
volume = {17},
number = {2},
pages = {101531},
doi = {10.1016/j.cels.2026.101531},
pmid = {41713400},
issn = {2405-4720},
mesh = {*Artificial Intelligence/trends ; *Microbiota/physiology ; Humans ; Machine Learning ; *Microbiology/trends ; },
abstract = {Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have transformed many scientific fields, with microbiology and microbiome research now experiencing significant breakthroughs through machine-learning applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of AI-driven approaches tailored for microbiology and microbiome studies, emphasizing both technical advancements and biological insights. We first introduce foundational AI techniques and offer guidance on choosing between traditional machine-learning and sophisticated deep-learning methods based on specific research goals. The primary section on application scenarios spans diverse research areas from taxonomic profiling, functional annotation and prediction, microbe-X interactions, microbial ecology, metabolic modeling, precision nutrition, and clinical microbiology to prevention and therapeutics. Finally, we discuss challenges in this field and highlight some recent breakthroughs. Together, this review underscores AI's transformative role in microbiology and microbiome research, paving the way for innovative methodologies and applications that enhance our understanding of microbial life and its impact on our planet and our health.},
}

*Artificial Intelligence/trends
*Microbiota/physiology
Humans
Machine Learning
*Microbiology/trends

@article {pmid41713334,
year = {2026},
author = {Gonchigsuren, U and Tsuji, S and Akagawa, S and Yamanouchi, S and Kato, S and Unishi, G and Okano, M and Okuda, K and Kino, J and Araki, A and Takaya, J and Teraguchi, M and Nakamura, A and Kaneko, K},
title = {Age-related changes in the urinary microbiome of healthy Japanese children.},
journal = {Journal of pediatric urology},
volume = {22},
number = {3},
pages = {105800},
doi = {10.1016/j.jpurol.2026.105800},
pmid = {41713334},
issn = {1873-4898},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The human urinary tract, once considered sterile, is now known to harbor a complex microbial community termed the "urobiome." In adults, the urobiome is shaped by sex and hormonal changes, but its developmental trajectory in healthy children remains poorly defined. Establishing a pediatric baseline is essential for understanding how dysbiosis may contribute to conditions such as urinary tract infections or enuresis. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the urobiome in a healthy Japanese pediatric cohort, contributing geographical and ethnic diversity to a field largely dominated by Western studies.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize age- and sex-specific developmental changes in the urinary microbiome of healthy Japanese children and compare them with adults.

Midstream urine was collected from 93 healthy children (54 males; median age 7.0 years) and 60 adults (30 males; median age 22.9 years). Participants were stratified into four age groups: 3-5 years, 6-10 years, 11-15 years, and adults. Bacterial composition was analyzed via 16S rRNA gene sequencing (V3-V4). Alpha diversity (Shannon, Chao1) and beta diversity (Bray-Curtis dissimilarity, Principal Coordinate Analysis) were assessed.

RESULTS: In males, Shannon diversity was significantly higher in the 3-5-year-old group than in the 6-10 (p = 0.047) and 11-15-year-old (p = 0.0019) groups. In females, diversity differed significantly across all groups (p < 0.001), decreasing after puberty. Beta diversity analysis revealed a marked compositional shift around puberty in females and a distinct separation of adult males from pediatric groups (PERMANOVA, p = 0.001 for both). At the genus level, females showed a post-pubertal increase in Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. In males, Ezakiella and Prevotella decreased in adulthood, while Bifidobacterium became detectable and increased (all p < 0.05).

DISCUSSION: Our findings demonstrate a dynamic, multi-stage maturation of the pediatric urobiome. In females, the post-pubertal decline in alpha diversity, driven by Lactobacillus dominance, indicates transition to a more specialized, stable community. In males, the emergence of a distinct adult profile suggests a more gradual maturation process. A limitation is the cross-sectional design; longitudinal studies are required to confirm individual developmental trajectories.

CONCLUSION: The healthy pediatric urobiome undergoes distinct age- and sex-specific maturation, reaching adult-like profiles after puberty. These results establish a critical baseline for normal pediatric urobiome development and provide a foundation for identifying dysbiosis in pediatric urological and systemic diseases.},
}

@article {pmid41713070,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, J and Bao, G and Liu, W and Xing, N and Ma, W and Bai, M and Zhang, X and Wu, J and Zuo, S and Ali, S},
title = {Carrier effects of microplastics in a hydroponic system: Amplifying diethyl phthalate toxicity and endophytic dysbiosis in Rye (Secale cereale L.) with implications for aquatic ecosystems.},
journal = {Aquatic toxicology (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {293},
number = {},
pages = {107754},
doi = {10.1016/j.aquatox.2026.107754},
pmid = {41713070},
issn = {1879-1514},
abstract = {Microplastics (MPs) and diethyl phthalate (DEP) co-contamination poses a growing threat to agricultural water systems, with potential risks for aquatic environments via groundwater infiltration and drainage. This study systematically investigates the individual and combined toxicological effects of polystyrene MPs and DEP on hydroponically cultivated rye (Secale cereale L.) by integrating physiological profiling, transcriptomics, endophytic microbiome analysis, and computational modeling. Co-exposure to MPs and DEP induced severe synergistic toxicity, significantly exceeding individual treatments. This was manifested as drastic growth inhibition, photosynthetic collapse due to "stomatal-non-stomatal" limitation, and exacerbated oxidative damage linked to the direct inhibition of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) by DEP. Crucially, a bidirectional interaction mechanism was uncovered: MPs adsorbed DEP, reducing its phytoaccumulation, while DEP enhanced MPs root uptake and upward translocation by altering their surface charge, leading to synergistic subcellular damage, including chloroplast disintegration. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that non-specific lipid transfer proteins (nsLTPs) facilitate DEP apoplastic transport. Furthermore, pollutants reshaped the endophytic microbiome, reducing diversity and enriching specific taxa (e.g., Rhizobiaceae), changes strongly correlated with oxidative stress and photosynthetic decline. The new insights reside in demonstrating that the synergistic toxicity stems from a bidirectional MP-DEP interaction (adsorption versus enhanced penetration), facilitated DEP transport via nsLTPs, and the consequential linkage between endophytic community disruption and the decline of plant physiological function. These findings imply that composite pollution risks are not additive but can be synergistically amplified through physicochemical and biological interactions. The study provides a mechanistic framework for assessing multipollutant risks, with broader relevance for the sustainability of hydroponic agriculture, safety of wastewater-irrigated systems, and understanding of pollutant transfer in aquatic-terrestrial food webs.},
}

@article {pmid41713032,
year = {2026},
author = {Park, J and Choi, Y and Lee, W and Kang, A and Seo, E and Kim, MG and Jang, KB and Song, M and Oh, S and Kim, Y},
title = {Heat-killed Bacteroides fragilis SLAM_BAF01 alleviates weaning-induced stress responses and cognitive impairments by modulating the gut-brain-microbiome axis.},
journal = {Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie},
volume = {196},
number = {},
pages = {119121},
doi = {10.1016/j.biopha.2026.119121},
pmid = {41713032},
issn = {1950-6007},
abstract = {Weaning transition in porcine industry is marked by nutritional, microbial, and psychological stresses that can impair growth and development. Accumulating evidence indicates that weaning-related stress not only disrupts gut microbial homeostasis but impairs gut-brain axis signaling through activation of stress-related neuroendocrine pathways. However, current interventions have largely focused on improving growth performance or enteric symptoms, while integrated strategies targeting the gut-brain-microbiome axis remain limited. Next-generation probiotics (NGPs) such as Bacteroides fragilis have been reported to exert beneficial effects on both intestinal health and brain function, positioning them as promising candidates for alleviating weaning stress. However, their practical application remains challenging due to the strict anaerobic nature. In this study, we investigated that a porcine-derived heat-killed B. fragilis SLAM_BAF01 exerts beneficial effects under weaning stress through gut-brain-microbiome modulation, thereby enabling a more stable and scalable application. First, to investigate the relationship within the gut-brain-microbiome axis under weaning stress conditions, we employed a fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT)-based mouse model and a physiologically relevant weaning pig model. Multi-omics analyses were conducted to characterize microbial and host responses. B. fragilis SLAM_BAF01 exhibited acid and bile tolerance, preserved structural integrity, and lacked enterotoxicity. In the mouse FMT model, heat-killed SLAM_BAF01 positively modulated gut microbial composition, reinforced intestinal barrier function, and attenuated stress-related responses. Especially, brain γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels increased by 150 %, while serum corticosterone levels were reduced by 17 % compared with the control. In the weaning pig model, heat-killed SLAM_BAF01 improved growth performance by 7 % and significantly reduced inflammation and stress markers. These findings demonstrate that heat-killed postbiotic B. fragilis SLAM_BAF01 as a promising candidate capable of mitigating weaning-associated stress through enhancing gut-brain-microbiome axis function in porcine industry.},
}

@article {pmid41712680,
year = {2026},
author = {},
title = {Correction to: Divergent responses of viral and bacterial communities in the gut microbiome to dietary disturbances in mice.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wrag024},
pmid = {41712680},
issn = {1751-7370},
}

@article {pmid41712536,
year = {2026},
author = {Quinn-Bohmann, N and Carr, AV and Gibbons, SM},
title = {Metabolic modeling reveals determinants of prebiotic and probiotic treatment efficacy across multiple human intervention trials.},
journal = {PLoS biology},
volume = {24},
number = {2},
pages = {e3003638},
pmid = {41712536},
issn = {1545-7885},
mesh = {Humans ; *Probiotics/therapeutic use ; *Prebiotics/administration & dosage ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/physiology ; Fatty Acids, Volatile/metabolism ; Treatment Outcome ; Inulin ; *Models, Biological ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Clostridium Infections/microbiology ; Akkermansia ; },
abstract = {Prebiotic, probiotic, and combined (synbiotic) interventions often show variable outcomes across individuals, driven by complex interactions between introduced biotics, the endogenous microbiota, and the host diet. Predicting individual-specific success or failure of probiotic and prebiotic therapies remains a major challenge. Here, we leverage microbial community-scale metabolic models (MCMMs) to predict probiotic engraftment and microbiota-mediated short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production in response to probiotic and prebiotic interventions. Using data from two human clinical trial cohorts, testing a five-strain probiotic combined with the prebiotic inulin designed to improve metabolic health and an eight-strain probiotic designed to treat recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections, respectively, we show that MCMM-predicted engraftment largely agrees with measurements, achieving 75%-80% accuracy. Engraftment probabilities varied across taxa. MCMMs captured treatment-driven shifts in predicted SCFA production, and higher model-predicted growth rates of Akkermansia muciniphila were negatively associated with glucose area under the curve (AUC) in the first trial, providing clues about the mechanisms underlying treatment efficacy. Extending these models to a third human cohort undergoing a healthy diet and lifestyle intervention revealed substantial inter-individual variability in predicted responses to increasing dietary fiber, which were significantly associated with baseline-to-follow-up changes in cardiometabolic health markers. Finally, our simulation results suggested that personalized prebiotic selection may further enhance probiotic efficacy. Together, these findings demonstrate the potential of metabolic modeling to guide personalized microbiome-mediated interventions.},
}

Humans
*Probiotics/therapeutic use
*Prebiotics/administration & dosage
Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/physiology
Fatty Acids, Volatile/metabolism
Treatment Outcome
Inulin
*Models, Biological
Male
Female
Adult
Middle Aged
Clostridium Infections/microbiology
Akkermansia

@article {pmid41712480,
year = {2026},
author = {Tan, AXH and Tee, NCH and Ang, TL},
title = {Gastric cancer in the post Helicobacter pylori era - non-H. pylori-related gastric microbiota, non-H. pylori related and post-H. pylori eradication gastric cancer.},
journal = {Digestion},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-17},
doi = {10.1159/000551095},
pmid = {41712480},
issn = {1421-9867},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: H. pylori-negative gastric cancer (GC) occurs in individuals with specific risk factors. This narrative review will evaluate the role of non-H. pylori gastric microbiota in gastric carcinogenesis and summarize the clinical aspects of non-H. pylori related GC.

SUMMARY: Epstein-Barr virus is the only other infection conclusively proven to be causative of GC. Case-control studies have reported a dysbiotic GC-associated gastric microbiome, with greater abundance of Fusobacterium nucleatum, Streptococcus anginosus, Prevotella and Veillonella. Mice model mechanistic studies have demonstrated the role of non-H. pylori microbiota in gastric carcinogenesis. Current data support their role as promotive factors, with H. pylori infection being the initiating event. In hereditary GC, inherited germline mutations initiate a genetically programmed pathway to gastric carcinogenesis. Autoimmune atrophic gastritis and Ménétrier's disease are associated with increased GC risk. Oxyntic gland adenoma/ gastric adenocarcinoma of fundic gland type and foveolar-type gastric adenoma are distinct histological subtypes of gastric neoplasia. Chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) and gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM) persist even after H. pylori eradication, increasing GC risk.

KEY MESSAGES: There must be greater awareness of H pylori-negative GC as a diagnostic possibility due to the impact on management. There is significant potential for translational application of gastric microbiome as predictive or prognostic biomarkers or even to shape treatment outcomes. Endoscopic surveillance is indicated in the case of extensive CAG or GIM, even after successful H. pylori eradication.},
}

@article {pmid41712385,
year = {2026},
author = {Hong, J and Xue, W and Wang, T},
title = {Universal gene-level bimodality in natural microbial communities.},
journal = {Cell reports},
volume = {45},
number = {3},
pages = {117013},
doi = {10.1016/j.celrep.2026.117013},
pmid = {41712385},
issn = {2211-1247},
abstract = {Bimodality-the coexistence of two peaks in trait distributions-is common in natural ecosystems. In microbiomes, bimodality of species abundances is known. However, whether this pattern applies to community functionality remains unclear. Here, we systematically investigate the abundance distributions of individual genes in different microbiomes, from human gut to ocean, revealing widespread gene-level bimodality. The bimodal genes are enriched in niche-specific pathways, suggesting their roles in ecological adaptation of the community. Based on their abundances, we develop a framework for microbiome functional typing, offering a gene-centric alternative to the taxonomy-based paradigm. Applied to the human gut, our approach identifies eleven genes exhibiting robust bimodality across western countries. These genes are associated with diseases such as liver cirrhosis. Machine learning models leveraging these genes are predictive of these diseases, underscoring their potential as clinically relevant biomarkers. Our work provides critical insights for microbiome functional architecture and has implications for microbiome-based diagnostics.},
}

@article {pmid41712268,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Y and Wei, J and Yang, H and Tan, W and Zhang, J and Hu, C and Li, H},
title = {Niche Overlap of Soil Bacteria Drives Stress Gradient Hypothesis Dynamics in Dryland Biocrust Succession.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {35},
number = {4},
pages = {e70277},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70277},
pmid = {41712268},
issn = {1365-294X},
support = {32571881//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32430005//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32370125//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023JJ40221//Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province/ ; 2022CFA105//Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars of Hubei Province/ ; 240700004//Huanghuai Lab Sci-Tech Innovation Project/ ; 252300423249//Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Soil Microbiology ; China ; *Stress, Physiological ; *Ecosystem ; Phylogeny ; *Bacteria/genetics/classification ; Cyanobacteria/genetics ; },
abstract = {Species interactions are the fundamental architecture of community assembly, yet how environmental context shapes these interdependencies remains a central question in ecology. The stress-gradient hypothesis (SGH) predicts a shift from competition to facilitation as abiotic stress intensifies, but its applicability to microbial communities and whether this shift is driven by niche partitioning or functional modification remains poorly understood. Using a 1500-km environmental gradient in Northwestern China, we tested the SGH paradigm with dryland biocrusts as a model system. Through integrated network analysis, niche-trait assessments and piecewise structural equation modelling, we identify niche overlap as a critical regulator of competition-facilitation transitions during biocrust succession, arranged within a patchy spatial pattern. High-stress cyanobacterial crusts exhibit tightly integrated and facilitation-driven communities, whereas benign moss-dominated crusts display modular networks and elevated competition. Our results demonstrate that multivariate abiotic stress regulates interaction outcomes primarily by mediating a priori niche overlap rather than functional dissimilarity, subsequently promoting phylogenetic divergence while constraining taxonomic diversity. Furthermore, as stress declined, we observed a significant increase in functional redundancy and a decoupling of taxonomic and functional structures, suggesting that environmental amelioration allows for the accumulation of ecological insurance. These findings provide a compelling validation of the microbial SGH, highlighting the trade-offs between niche architecture and functional optimization. As climate change amplifies environmental pressures, these findings illuminate the potential to leverage the facilitative interdependencies of soil microbiome for the success of dryland restoration through niche engineering.},
}

*Soil Microbiology
China
*Stress, Physiological
*Ecosystem
Phylogeny
*Bacteria/genetics/classification
Cyanobacteria/genetics

@article {pmid41712255,
year = {2026},
author = {Zang, J and Xiao, L and Zhao, X and Shi, Y and Ma, K and Zhang, C and Geng, S and Rui, X and Lin, T and Li, W},
title = {From fermentation to function: a critical review of lactic acid bacteria redesign for functional foods and precision nutrition.},
journal = {Critical reviews in food science and nutrition},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-27},
doi = {10.1080/10408398.2026.2631641},
pmid = {41712255},
issn = {1549-7852},
abstract = {Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have transitioned from their traditional roles in food preservation and flavor enhancement to more advanced applications supported by synthetic biology, genome editing, and artificial intelligence (AI). This review provides a comprehensive overview of how LAB contribute to improvements in the quality of fermented foods, including their texture, flavor, and nutritional benefits. It evaluates innovative strategies such as CRISPR-based strain improvements, microfluidic high-throughput screening, AI-enhanced precision design, and personalized nutrition frameworks that connect microbiome profiles to specific LAB functionalities. Additionally, it discusses significant challenges, including global regulatory differences, ethical concerns regarding genetically engineered LAB, technical issues related to scaling advanced fermentation technologies, and consumer acceptance. Overcoming these barriers requires a coordinated, interdisciplinary approach. Therefore, future research should focus on integrating multi-omics platforms, establishing standardized LAB functional databases, and developing AI-driven precision nutrition tools to promote sustainable and consumer-friendly innovation in the fermented food industry.},
}

@article {pmid41711913,
year = {2026},
author = {Ucar, M and Celebi, O and Celebi, D and Baser, S and Guler, MC and Tanyeli, A and Kiliclioglu, M and Dabanlioglu, B and Shahbazova, M and Yilmaz, A and Yildirim, S},
title = {Determinate the effects of Arabic gum and Lactobacillus acidophilus on the gut microbiota ALPK1/NFKB/NLRP6 and NLRP2 signaling pathway and virulence gene profile in rats with Campylobacter jejuni exosome application.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {4},
pages = {207},
pmid = {41711913},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {Animals ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; Rats ; *Exosomes/metabolism ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; *Lactobacillus acidophilus/physiology ; NF-kappa B/metabolism/genetics ; *Campylobacter jejuni/pathogenicity/genetics ; Male ; *Probiotics/administration & dosage ; *Campylobacter Infections/microbiology/therapy ; Inflammasomes ; Virulence ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Virulence Factors/genetics ; },
abstract = {Campylobacter jejuni (CJ), a major cause of bacterial gastroenteritis, employs exosomes to disseminate virulence factors and disrupt host immune homeostasis. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of Arabic Gum (AZ) and Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA), individually and in combination, against CJ exosome-induced intestinal injury in rats, with emphasis on inflammasome-related signaling and microbiota modulation. Rats received AZ, LA, or both following CJ exosome exposure. Molecular analyses, histopathology, and microbiome sequencing were performed to elucidate mechanistic responses. CJ exosomes activated key virulence pathways and triggered pronounced inflammatory signaling characterized by alpha kinase 1 (ALPK1), Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-κB), and NOD-like Receptor Pyrin (NLRP) upregulation, accompanied by epithelial injury and dysbiosis. Treatment with AZ or LA alone attenuated inflammasome activation and partially restored immune and microbial balance. Notably, the combined treatment produced a synergistic effect, effectively suppressing ALPK1/NF-κB/NLRP signaling and reestablishing a more physiologic microbial community structure. These improvements were associated with reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines and markers of tissue damage, as well as substantial recovery in intestinal, hepatic, and splenic architecture. Overall, AZ and LA significantly mitigated CJ exosome-mediated pathology, with the combined therapy demonstrating superior efficacy. The findings suggest that co-administration of AZ and LA may offer a promising dual-modal strategy to counteract CJ-induced inflammatory and microbial disturbances, potentially supporting future therapeutic approaches targeting exosome-mediated pathogenesis.},
}

Animals
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
Rats
*Exosomes/metabolism
Signal Transduction/drug effects
*Lactobacillus acidophilus/physiology
NF-kappa B/metabolism/genetics
*Campylobacter jejuni/pathogenicity/genetics
Male
*Probiotics/administration & dosage
*Campylobacter Infections/microbiology/therapy
Inflammasomes
Virulence
Rats, Sprague-Dawley
Virulence Factors/genetics

@article {pmid41711905,
year = {2026},
author = {Sudhakaran, G and Sreekutty, AR and Choi, KC and Valan Arasu, M and Guru, A and Karthick Raja Namasivayam, S and Arockiaraj, J},
title = {Microbial Dysbiosis and Pathogenic Interplay in the Gut-Vaginal Axis: Implications for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Critical Review.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {4},
pages = {194},
pmid = {41711905},
issn = {1432-0991},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Polycystic Ovary Syndrome/microbiology ; *Dysbiosis/microbiology ; *Vagina/microbiology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; },
abstract = {PCOS is the most common endocrine condition among reproductive-age women. This disorder causes irregular menstrual periods, increased hair growth, anovulation, and pregnancy difficulties. PCOS affects more than reproductive health. Recent PCOS research has focused on the Gut-Vaginal Axis, stressing the gut-vaginal microbiota reciprocal interaction. Modern society's ubiquitous stress affects hormonal activity. Stress-induced hormonal shifts may alter the vaginal and gut microbiomes These surroundings' microbial populations may contribute to PCOS-related systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and reproductive difficulties. Stress hormones and microbiome abnormalities are linked with PCOS, but the mechanisms are yet unknown. This study examines how stress hormones affect gut and vaginal microbiomes in PCOS patients.},
}

Humans
Female
*Polycystic Ovary Syndrome/microbiology
*Dysbiosis/microbiology
*Vagina/microbiology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome

@article {pmid41711893,
year = {2026},
author = {Sonkar, RM and Gade, PS and Bhatt, P},
title = {Xylooligosaccharide in combination with Lactobacillus rhamnosus ameliorates disturbed circadian rhythm and associated neurological internal desynchronization by maintaining homeostasis of neuroactive molecules and gut microbiome.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {4},
pages = {208},
pmid = {41711893},
issn = {1432-072X},
}

@article {pmid41711851,
year = {2026},
author = {Azorín, C and Fernandes, SR and Barreiros, L and Benedé, JL and Chisvert, A and Segundo, MA},
title = {Mixed sorbent in miniaturized stir bar sorptive dispersive microextraction for the determination of gut microbiome metabolites in plasma samples.},
journal = {Analytical and bioanalytical chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41711851},
issn = {1618-2650},
support = {UID/50006//Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia/ ; },
abstract = {An analytical method for the simultaneous determination of three gut microbiome metabolites related to the gut-brain axis (trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), phenylacetylglutamine (PAG), and 4-ethylphenyl sulfate (EPS)) in human plasma is presented. The proposed method is based on miniaturized stir bar sorptive dispersive microextraction (mSBSDME) followed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). In this work, a magnetic composite made of CoFe2O4 magnetic nanoparticles embedded into a mixture of commercial sorbents (hydrophilic-lipophilic balance and mixed-mode cation exchange) was employed as magnetic sorbent material, taking advantage of its affinity to the target analytes. Under the optimized conditions, the method was validated and showed good analytical features in terms of linearity (at least up to 1000 ng mL[-1]), limits of detection (22, 2, and 9 ng mL[-1] for TMAO, PAG, and EPS, respectively), repeatability (RSD ≤ 10%), and accuracy (91-101%). Moreover, relative recoveries between 84 and 104% were obtained, showing matrix effects were negligible using deuterated standards as surrogates. This new approach was successfully applied to clinical samples, allowing the rapid determination of the target metabolites in a single run for the first time.},
}

@article {pmid41711840,
year = {2026},
author = {Gamil, NM and Elsayed, HA and Salah, ET and Mostafa, HA and El-Shiekh, RA and Ghaiad, HR and Eitah, HE},
title = {Decoding the mechanistic basis of liver-muscle communication in health and disease.},
journal = {Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41711840},
issn = {1432-1912},
abstract = {The bidirectional communication between liver and skeletal muscle represents a critical yet underexplored axis in human physiology. Dysfunction in either organ can accelerate pathology in the other, amplifying disease progression. Understanding this interconnected system is essential for developing targeted and effective therapeutic strategies. This comprehensive review elucidates the complex pathophysiological mechanisms underlying liver-muscle crosstalk and identifies novel therapeutic targets for simultaneous intervention in both organs. We analyzed peer-reviewed literature focusing on molecular pathways, biomarkers, and therapeutic interventions targeting the liver-muscle axis, including cardiac muscle interactions. Key parameters examined included inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-6), metabolic regulators (mTOR, AMPK), hepatokines, myokines, cardiokines, and emerging biomarkers such as zonulin. The liver-muscle axis operates through multiple interconnected pathways: (1) inflammatory cascades where TNF-α inhibits muscle mTOR signaling while promoting hepatic stellate cell activation; (2) metabolic disruption through insulin resistance and AMPK pathway dysfunction affecting both organs simultaneously; (3) gut-liver-muscle crosstalk mediated by microbiome-derived metabolites and intestinal permeability markers like zonulin; (4) hepatokine-myokine signaling networks that coordinate metabolic homeostasis; and (5) liver-heart crosstalk involving cardiomyocyte-hepatocyte interactions through FGF21, IL-6/STAT3 signaling, and inflammatory pathways that distinguish cardiac muscle from skeletal muscle responses. Studying the liver-muscle axis helps in understanding metabolic diseases, transforming them from isolated organ pathologies to interconnected systemic disorders. This framework opens new avenues for precision medicine approaches, biomarker development, and therapeutic innovation that simultaneously optimize liver, skeletal muscle, and cardiac health.},
}

@article {pmid41711677,
year = {2026},
author = {Rinderknecht, S and Bertolo, A and Valido, E and Stojic, S and Wong, S and Farkas, GJ and Iyer, P and Jaric, I and Stoyanov, J and Glisic, M},
title = {The role of short-chain fatty acids in spinal cord injury: A systematic review of human and animal evidence.},
journal = {The journal of spinal cord medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-14},
doi = {10.1080/10790268.2025.2607831},
pmid = {41711677},
issn = {2045-7723},
abstract = {CONTEXT: Spinal cord injury (SCI) disrupts gut microbiota composition, resulting in dysbiosis that can worsen neuroinflammation and impede post-injury recovery. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), metabolites produced by the gut microbiome with anti-inflammatory properties, offer a promising avenue for improving recovery and rehabilitation outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to compile a summary of the human and animal evidence on the potential benefits of SCFA or SCFA  - producing bacteria in individuals with SCI.

METHODS: Three databases (EMBASE, Medline (Ovid) and Web of Science) were searched from inception until 19 October 2023. No language restrictions were applied. Title and abstract screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessments were done independently by two reviewers.

RESULTS: A total of 2492 studies were retrieved, 69 full-text studies were reviewed, and 13 studies were included (11 animal and 2 human). Human studies, which involved participants with chronic SCI, linked gut dysbiosis (a proxy for low SCFA production) and human metabolic profiles, suggesting a potential role for microbiome-targeted interventions even in later stages of injury. Evidence from animal studies, predominantly in acute and sub-acute models of SCI, consistently associated SCFA interventions with improved motor function, reduced tissue damage and favorable changes in inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Fecal microbiota transplantation and probiotics improved motor function and reduced lesion size in animal models. Gut microbiome modulations through treatments such as melatonin, moxibustion, and intermittent fasting was correlated with improved motor outcomes and increased abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria.

CONCLUSIONS: This review highlights the potential of targeting the gut microbiota and SCFAs as therapeutic strategies for SCI recovery. However, despite promising results in animal models, human evidence remains limited.},
}

@article {pmid41711478,
year = {2026},
author = {Mannion, A and Shen, Z and Dzink-Fox, J and Piazuelo, MB and Wilson, KT and Peek, RM and Fox, JG},
title = {Whole genome sequences of novel Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus salivarius, and Streptococcus anginosus strains isolated from human gastric biopsy tissue.},
journal = {Microbiology resource announcements},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0113625},
doi = {10.1128/mra.01136-25},
pmid = {41711478},
issn = {2576-098X},
abstract = {Three novel bacterial strains, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus salivarius, and Streptococcus anginosus, were cultured from human gastric biopsy tissue from Colombian, South America patients with a high risk for gastric cancer. Bacteria were sequenced using Illumina MiSeq technology for phylogenetic characterization and identification of genetic mechanisms conferring pathogenic or protective potential.},
}

@article {pmid41711356,
year = {2026},
author = {Nassar, RSF and Ribeiro, MC and Hernandes, ACP and Gianduzzo, LZ and Pereira, VPS and Salvador, SLS and Ervolino, E and Sávio, DSF and Messora, MR and Furlaneto, FAC},
title = {Immunological and periodontal benefits of prebiotic polydextrose in rats with induced periodontitis.},
journal = {Journal of periodontology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jper.70095},
pmid = {41711356},
issn = {1943-3670},
support = {2020/14942-1//São Paulo Research Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Prebiotic therapy is a promising approach for managing periodontitis due to its potential benefits in modulating the microbiome and the immune response. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the prebiotic (PREB) polydextrose (PDX) on the development of experimental periodontitis (EP) in rats.

METHODS: A total of 44 male adult rats (Rattus norvegicus, albinus, Wistar) were randomly allocated into groups (n = 11) C (control), PREB, EP, and EP/PREB. The PREB and EP/PREB groups received 2 g of PDX/day in the drinking water for 44 days. The EP and EP/PREB groups received cotton ligatures around mandibular first molars (M1) for 14 days. Microtomographic, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses of periodontal and intestinal tissues were performed. Data were analyzed statistically (p < 0.05).

RESULTS: The EP/PREB group showed less alveolar bone destruction than the EP group. The EP/PREB group exhibited higher expressions of IL-10 and a lower number of TRAP (tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase)-positive cells than the EP group in periodontal tissues. The EP/PREB group had increased villus heights in the duodenum and ileum, increased crypt depths in the duodenum, and higher expressions of occludin in all intestinal portions, claudin-1 in the jejunum, IL-10 in the duodenum, and lower expressions of IL-1β in the jejunum compared with the EP group.

CONCLUSION: Polydextrose exerted a protective effect against alveolar bone resorption and favorably modulated both local and systemic immune-inflammatory response in rats with experimental periodontitis.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Prebiotic therapy has emerged as a promising approach for treating periodontitis, an immunoinflammatory disease associated with a dysbiotic biofilm that leads to the loss of the supporting structures of the teeth. This is because prebiotics can positively influence the balance of bacteria in the body and the immune system's response. However, current understanding of its potential effects and mechanisms of action remains limited in periodontal therapy. The effects of the prebiotic polydextrose (PDX) on periodontal tissues remain unknown. The results of the present study show that the prebiotic PDX can minimize alveolar bone loss and improve bone microarchitecture through modulation of the immune-inflammatory response in both intestinal and periodontal tissues of rats with experimental periodontitis. Our findings suggest that the prebiotic PDX may represent a beneficial adjunctive strategy for managing periodontitis.},
}

@article {pmid41711302,
year = {2026},
author = {Silver, TH and Paullin, T},
title = {From the Field: Supporting Families as They Navigate Infant Food Allergies.},
journal = {Journal of human lactation : official journal of International Lactation Consultant Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {8903344251401908},
doi = {10.1177/08903344251401908},
pmid = {41711302},
issn = {1552-5732},
abstract = {Infant food allergies present significant challenges for breastfeeding families, who often receive conflicting information and inadequate support when implementing elimination diets. This article examines current research on protein transfer in human milk and proposes evidence-based approaches to managing suspected food allergies while preserving breastfeeding. Recent studies demonstrate that food proteins transfer into human milk with consistent timing patterns across multiple allergens, typically peaking within 2 hours of maternal ingestion and clearing within 6 to 8 hours. This understanding challenges conventional recommendations for extended elimination periods and supports more targeted dietary modifications. When appropriate trigger foods are completely removed from the maternal diet, infant symptoms typically begin improving within 72 to 96 hours, with most cases showing resolution within days to weeks, depending on symptom severity. Effective management requires a comprehensive assessment that evaluates infant factors, including gut microbiome development, medical history, feeding patterns, and oral function, alongside maternal nutritional status and mental health. Elimination diets should be viewed as short-term interventions requiring intensive monitoring to prevent nutritional deficiencies and psychological burden. Successful resolution of infant allergic symptoms can be enhanced by interprofessional collaboration between pediatricians, allergists, dietitians, International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs), or other lactation support providers, and mental health professionals. IBCLCs play a crucial role in supporting milk production and maternal wellbeing during elimination periods. The research-informed approach we present here prioritizes family-centered care, recognizing that each management strategy must be individualized based on unique circumstances, symptoms, and goals while providing families with evidence-based information and comprehensive support throughout their journey.},
}

@article {pmid41711187,
year = {2026},
author = {Reddy, MS},
title = {The future of periodontology: Emerging technologies and conceptual shifts.},
journal = {Journal of periodontology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jper.70079},
pmid = {41711187},
issn = {1943-3670},
abstract = {Periodontology is entering a transformative era driven by advances in diagnostics, therapeutics, and digital integration. Emerging technologies and conceptual shifts are currently reshaping the specialty, with a focus on predictive, preventive, and personalized care. Salivary diagnostics, artificial intelligence, and sensor-based monitoring are expanding the potential for early detection and individualized treatment. Innovations such as host modulation, regenerative therapies, gene and exosome delivery, and microbiome-preserving strategies offer promising new avenues for managing periodontal disease. The increased use of digital workflows and robotics can be leveraged to enhance precision and efficiency in clinical settings. The future of periodontology will see clinicians working in interprofessional teams that share integrated health data and collaborate for systemic health management where the periodontist assumes the role of a "sentinel of inflammation" to help maintain oral and overall health. To meet these demands, educational programs must evolve to prepare practitioners for a data-driven, patient-centered landscape. Balancing technological innovation with equitable access and ethical frameworks will allow the clinicians of the future to deliver the best possible care to patients.},
}

@article {pmid41711048,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, M and Li, W and Ji, Y and Chen, Y and Wei, G and Huo, J and Gui, T},
title = {Lactylation in colorectal cancer: Unveiling novel mechanisms in metabolism, progression and therapeutic targeting.},
journal = {Clinical and translational medicine},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {e70629},
pmid = {41711048},
issn = {2001-1326},
support = {SLJ0329//Jiangsu Province Leading Talents Cultivation Project for Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; BK20241997//Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province/ ; BK20241998//Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province/ ; H2023048//Medical Scientific Research Project of Jiangsu Provincial Commission of Health/ ; 82004288//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2021.6//Jiangsu Clinical Innovation Center of Digestive Cancer of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Colorectal Neoplasms/metabolism/drug therapy/genetics ; Tumor Microenvironment ; Disease Progression ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality characterised by a unique metabolic microenvironment and complex interactions with the gut microbiota. Lactylation, a novel post-translational modification derived from lactate, has emerged as a key epigenetic regulator connecting metabolic reprogramming to gene expression. While its general roles in cancer are recognised, the tissue-specific regulatory network of lactylation in colorectal cancer-particularly its interplay with the gut microbiome and specific chemotherapy resistance mechanisms-remains underexplored.

MAIN BODY: This review systematically dissects the dynamic 'writer‒eraser‒reader' network of lactylation, highlighting its distinct oncogenic functions in colorectal cancer. We reveal a critical 'microbiome‒metabolism‒epigenetics' axis in which gut flora-derived metabolites (including D-lactate) remodel the tumour microenvironment and drive immune evasion. Beyond histone modifications, we emphasise the pivotal role of non-histone lactylation targets (e.g., eEF1A2, PD-L1) in orchestrating malignant proliferation and promoting liver metastasis by priming the pre-metastatic niche. Furthermore, we elucidate novel mechanisms by which lactylation induces resistance to standard chemotherapeutic agents (5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin), specifically through the enhancement of DNA repair and the suppression of ferroptosis. We also critically evaluate the pharmacological challenges hindering clinical translation, such as the poor selectivity of current broad-spectrum inhibitors.

SHORT CONCLUSION: Lactylation serves as a fundamental metabolic‒epigenetic link driving aggressive phenotypes in colorectal cancer. By delineating these tissue-specific mechanisms and proposing next-generation site-specific targeting strategies, this review provides a theoretical foundation for developing precision medicine interventions to overcome therapy resistance in colorectal cancer patients.},
}

Humans
*Colorectal Neoplasms/metabolism/drug therapy/genetics
Tumor Microenvironment
Disease Progression
Gastrointestinal Microbiome

@article {pmid41711045,
year = {2026},
author = {Williams, S and Meran, L and McCartney, S and Harrow, P and Lee, JC},
title = {REACH: C-cause.},
journal = {Journal of Crohn's & colitis},
volume = {20},
number = {Supplement_2},
pages = {ii38-ii51},
doi = {10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjaf222},
pmid = {41711045},
issn = {1876-4479},
support = {M2023-1//Crohn's and Colitis/ ; //Wellcome/ ; //Lister Institute Prize Fellow/ ; //Francis Crick Institute/ ; CC2219/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; CC2219/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; CC2219/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Inflammatory Bowel Diseases/immunology/microbiology/etiology/genetics ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; Adaptive Immunity ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; },
abstract = {Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) arises from a multifaceted interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, microbial dynamics, and immune dysregulation. This complex network of interacting factors disrupts gut homeostasis, leading to chronic relapsing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. This review synthesizes the current understanding of the multifactorial causes of IBD. Central to disease pathogenesis is the altered relationship between the host immune system and the intestinal microbiome, which culminates in a persistent cycle of tissue damage and inflammation, involving both innate and adaptive immunity as well as non-immune cells. Efforts to elucidate these integrated pathways have underscored the importance of both intrinsic host factors and extrinsic environmental triggers in IBD pathogenesis. Despite this, a better understanding of disease mechanisms is still needed, and will be essential to developing better therapies that can target relevant axes of the disease process and restore immune balance, facilitate tissue repair, and induce lasting remission.},
}

Humans
*Inflammatory Bowel Diseases/immunology/microbiology/etiology/genetics
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology
Immunity, Innate
Adaptive Immunity
Genetic Predisposition to Disease

@article {pmid41711036,
year = {2026},
author = {Zakarauskas-Seth, BI and Forcari, G and Anandakumar, H and Kotlar-Goldaper, I and Barraud, C and Jovanovic, N and Brüning, U and Kirwan, J and Wilck, N and Forslund, SK and Müller, DN and Filosa, A and Sawamiphak, S},
title = {Indole-3 Acetate Limits Dysbiosis-Driven Diastolic Failure via Hcrt Neurons.},
journal = {Circulation research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.125.326990},
pmid = {41711036},
issn = {1524-4571},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The nervous, gastrointestinal, renal, and cardiovascular systems orchestrate ion-fluid homeostasis and impose reciprocal adaptations to hypertensive challenges. Mechanistic insight into the interorgan crosstalk is fundamental for tackling pathogenesis of hypertensive heart disease.

METHODS: We integrated gut microbiome profiling and targeted metabolomics in a zebrafish model of ion dyshomeostasis-induced diastolic dysfunction to identify microbial metabolites linked to hypertensive cardiac remodeling. To dissect the gut-brain-heart axis, we depleted microbiota, supplemented specific microbial metabolites, and chemogenetically ablated hypothalamic neurons. Neuronal activity was monitored using in vivo calcium imaging and immunohistochemistry, and cardiovascular function was assessed by live imaging. Patient serum metabolic profiles were analyzed to evaluate relevance to human hypertension.

RESULTS: Zebrafish larvae exposed to ion dyshomeostasis exhibited gut dysbiosis, marked by reduced microbial richness and diversity, particularly among indole- and indole-3-producing taxa. Functionally, commensal microbiota protected against cardiovascular structural and functional remodeling during hypertensive challenge, whereas antibiotic-induced perturbation worsened hemodynamic parameters of arterial hypertension and impaired ventricular relaxation. Gut metabolomics identified a lower abundance of indole-3 acetic acid as a key signature of the hypertensive response, a pattern conserved in serum metabolome from patients with hypertension. Indole-3 acetic acid supplementation, acting via the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, mitigated cardiac concentric hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction. These effects involved hypothalamic hypocretin neurons, with indole-3 acetic acid suppressing their overactivation and the associated sympathetic overdrive in cardiac-projecting paravertebral ganglia during the hypertensive challenge. Indole-3 acetic acid also prevented renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system upregulation, indicating that it operates upstream of both autonomic and hormonal pathways.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings uncover a gut-brain-heart crosstalk where hypertensive gut dysbiosis signals to the central nervous system to drive diastolic remodeling. Modulation of indole-3 acetic acid signaling and hypocretin neuron activity represents a promising strategy to counter the multisystemic pathogenesis of hypertensive heart disease.},
}

@article {pmid41711005,
year = {2026},
author = {Chaudhary, R and Bansal, N and Lal, R and Kaur, A and Bishnoi, M and Kondepudi, KK and Chopra, K and Bansal, S},
title = {Fructooligosaccharide ameliorates estrogen-gut-microbiome-brain axis dysfunction in estrogen-deficient rats.},
journal = {Food & function},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5fo03823e},
pmid = {41711005},
issn = {2042-650X},
abstract = {Reduced levels of circulating gonadal hormones in post-menopausal women can negatively affect various physiological functions, including brain and gut deficits. There is an urgent need to find novel strategies to mitigate estrogen-gut-microbiome-brain axis (EGMBA) dysfunction. This study aimed to investigate the effect of fructooligosaccharide (FOS), a non-digestible prebiotic fiber, on estrogen deficiency-induced alterations in the EGMBA using an ovariectomized (OVX) rat model. Adult female SD rats were bilaterally OVX to induce estrogen deficiency and associated EGMBA dysfunction. Rats were administered FOS (50 mg kg[-1] p.o.[-1]) for 28 consecutive days. To assess EGMBA dysfunction, after 28 days, we performed behavioral tests, biochemical estimations (oxidative stress), molecular estimations (inflammatory markers via ELISA), gene expression analysis (HPA axis, monoamine neurotransmission, apoptosis, gut microbiota alterations, & gut barrier integrity via RT-PCR/qPCR), and histopathological analysis. Administration of FOS significantly improved behavioral outcomes (reducing anxiety and depression, and improving memory). FOS also attenuates oxidative stress and inflammatory markers. FOS regulates apoptosis (upregulation of BCL-2 and downregulation of Bax), HPA axis functioning (corticosterone, GR, MR, & CRH), and monoamine neurotransmission (MAO-A & COMT) in the hippocampus of OVX rats. FOS also promoted healthy cell growth and prevented apoptosis. Additionally, FOS restored gut microbial eubiosis, improved mucus secretion (MUC-2), preserved tight junction protein expression (Lipocalin-2, Claudin, & TLR-4), and maintained the colon microstructure. FOS exerts multifaceted protective effects on the EGMBA by modulating gut and brain functions. These findings support its potential as a non-hormonal therapeutic approach for managing postmenopausal complications.},
}

@article {pmid41710943,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiang, XY and Chen, DW and Duan, T and Zhang, JD and Ren, YP and Tan, J},
title = {Unraveling the complex web: pathogenesis and prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus-related fetal overgrowth.},
journal = {Frontiers in cell and developmental biology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1744305},
pmid = {41710943},
issn = {2296-634X},
abstract = {Fetal overgrowth, manifesting as large for gestational age or macrosomia, remains a common complication of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) with neonatal and long-term metabolic implications. While maternal hyperglycemia is a key driver, evidence describes the role of dysregulated placental nutrient transport involving glucose, amino acids, and lipids mediated by signaling hubs like mTOR, IGF, and AMPK. Beyond traditional metabolic axes, this review explores emerging contributors, including gut microbiota dysbiosis and extracellular vesicle mediated communication, which modulate the environment. We synthesize evidence on fetal vascular adaptations and epigenetic programming underpinning accelerated growth. Clinically, achieving euglycemia often fails to eliminate residual overgrowth risks completely. Management is evolving to integrate advanced ultrasonic markers, such as fetal abdominal fat layer thickness, and pharmacotherapeutic candidates like metformin or pravastatin. However, addressing critical knowledge gaps requires robust longitudinal cohorts and rigorous causal inference to validate complex mechanisms. Furthermore, implementing standardized biomarker protocols remains essential for clinical translation. This review provides a comprehensive framework for precision-based strategies to manage GDM-related fetal overgrowth effectively. Search Strategy. A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was conducted for literature published up to 2025. The search utilized a combination of the following keywords and their variants: "gestational diabetes mellitus," "fetal overgrowth," "macrosomia," "placental transport," "insulin resistance," "mTOR," "extracellular vesicles," "microbiome," and "epigenetics." Boolean operators (AND, OR) were applied. Priority was given to human clinical studies, meta-analyses, and large cohort studies, with animal and in vitro experiments included as mechanistic supplements.},
}

@article {pmid41710924,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, X and Chen, Z and Lu, Y and Wu, Y and Huang, Y and Zhang, Y and Li, M and Feng, N},
title = {Fecal microbiota transplantation: a novel strategy and challenges in the adjuvant treatment of bladder Cancer.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1756107},
pmid = {41710924},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The clinical management of bladder cancer faces major challenges due to treatment resistance and recurrence, which require the development of new adjuvant strategies. The role of the gut microbiome in influencing bladder cancer progression and treatment response through the "gut-bladder axis" is gaining recognition. This understanding provides a theoretical rationale for exploring microbiota-targeting interventions, such as fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). As a method capable of thoroughly reshaping the gut microbiota, FMT may have broad clinical potential. This review systematically explores the possible role of FMT in treating bladder cancer. It begins by summarizing the observational and causal evidence linking gut microbiota dysbiosis to bladder cancer, which forms the rationale for considering FMT as an intervention. Then, it discusses how FMT might improve therapeutic effectiveness, including regulation of microbial metabolites (such as short-chain fatty acids, tryptophan, and bile acids), repair of the intestinal barrier, induction of epigenetic reprogramming and modulation of the urinary microbiota. The review also considers potential scenarios for combining FMT with existing adjuvant therapies, including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Finally, it objectively evaluates the key challenges in translating FMT into clinical practice, including effectiveness, safety, standardization, and regulatory or ethical issues, and outlines future directions. By synthesizing current evidence, this review highlights FMT as a potentially promising and innovative adjuvant strategy worthy of further investigation, which, if validated, could contribute to overcoming current therapeutic challenges in bladder cancer.},
}

@article {pmid41710921,
year = {2026},
author = {Speek, BM and Suleiman, AKA and Keuning, E and Sechi, V and Buisman, CJN and Bezemer, TM},
title = {The hidden potential of archaea in carbon and nitrogen cycling in agricultural soils: a review.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1755559},
pmid = {41710921},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The soil microbiome drives soil nutrient cycling and is intrinsically linked to plant productivity in agriculture. Archaea are members of many soil microbiomes and play important roles in nutrient cycling, particularly in the carbon and nitrogen cycle. Many archaeal groups contribute to both carbon and nitrogen cycles, but their dual roles are often underappreciated. For instance, ammonia-oxidizing archaea couple ammonia oxidation to carbon fixation, contributing to carbon sequestration in soils. Methanogenic archaea use ATP produced through methanogenesis for nitrogen fixation. N-DAMO archaea directly couple carbon and nitrogen cycling through nitrate-dependent anaerobic methane oxidation, while haloarchaea contribute to carbon sequestration and denitrification. Here, we synthesize the latest research regarding the dual roles of archaea in carbon and nitrogen cycling in agricultural soils. We pay special attention to how nutrient input influences these roles. We show that the relevance of the processes is highly context dependent. In addition, we identify several research directions that will help harness the difference roles of archaea in carbon and nitrogen cycling to increase agricultural productivity and sustainability. Finally, we showcase that abundance and activity of archaea in the soil microbiome could be steered through nutrient input or microbiome engineering strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41710919,
year = {2026},
author = {Luo, N and Zhang, Y and Ren, Z and Wang, X and Li, H and Zhang, A},
title = {Microbial agents enhance the yield and quality of pears by regulating the composition and networks of microbial communities in the phyllosphere and rhizosphere.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1763579},
pmid = {41710919},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Microbial management offers a sustainable pathway to enhance crop performance by optimizing plant-associated microbiomes. However, integrated strategies that concurrently target both the rhizosphere and phyllosphere to improve fruit tree productivity and quality remain underexplored. This study systematically evaluated the effects of combined soil and foliar microbial applications on the yield, fruit quality, and microbiome dynamics of 'Yuluxiang' pear. We compared conventional fertilization (CK) with two treatments: CK plus a soil-applied anti-replant disease agent (CF) and CK plus both the soil agent and a foliar growth-promoting inoculant (CFW). Microbial applications significantly increased the yield by up to 60.4% in CF treatment, and enhanced key fruit quality parameters, including soluble solids content (increased by 17.2% in CF and 16.7% in CFW) and fruit shape index. These agronomic improvements were closely associated with a targeted restructuring of bacterial communities in both the phyllosphere and rhizosphere. Specifically, beneficial phyla such as Actinomycetota were enriched in the phyllosphere under CFW treatment, while Bacillota increased in the rhizosphere under microbial amendments. Furthermore, co-occurrence network analysis revealed that microbial applications fostered more complex and cooperative microbial networks, with increased nodes and edges across both compartments. This work demonstrates that an integrated soil and foliar microbiome management strategy can mitigate replant disease constraints and elevate fruit quality, providing a practical approach for sustainable orchard production.},
}

@article {pmid41710918,
year = {2026},
author = {Jia, J and Chen, L and Liu, Q and Wang, K and Zhao, K and Ren, X and Gao, X and Ani, J},
title = {Enhancement of soil microbial community stability by earthworms and collembolans in soil from abandoned coal mine lands.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1636784},
pmid = {41710918},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Soil fauna play a critical role in the restoration of abandoned mining areas, uniquely contributing to soil formation, development, and the rehabilitation of degraded soils. This role is intricately linked with miwcrobial activity. Previous research has mainly concentrated on the direct effects of soil fauna on the physicochemical properties of soils in abandoned sites, often overlooking their indirect impacts on soil ecological functions via changes in soil microbial communities. This study undertakes a microcosm experiment by introducing soil fauna into the soil from coal mining abandoned lands to explore shifts in microbial communities. Results demonstrate that collembolan treatments significantly reduce fungi abundance, whereas earthworm treatments notably decrease the Shannon and Chao1 index for both bacterial and fungi communities. Soil fauna treatments modify the structure and composition of microbial communities, with more distinct differences in fungi community structures. Additionally, various soil fauna treatments markedly change microbial interactions; earthworm treatments impact microbial communities more than collembolan treatments, and combined treatments (EC) are more effective in enhancing microbial community stability compared to individual treatments (C, E). Network analysis has identified key microbial taxa that are positively correlated with soil fauna abundance, suggesting that future management strategies could manipulate key microbial taxa through soil fauna to enhance the restoration of soil ecological functions. These findings offer a detailed understanding of the dynamics of microbial communities under biotic interactions, essential for the ecological restoration of soils in abandoned mining areas.},
}

@article {pmid41710892,
year = {2026},
author = {Peng, L and Zhang, Z and Hu, Y and Chen, H and Tian, Y and Ling, H},
title = {Regulating the crosstalk between Bifidobacterium and the brain: a potential therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1706811},
pmid = {41710892},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Alzheimer Disease/therapy/microbiology/metabolism ; *Bifidobacterium/physiology/immunology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Brain/metabolism/microbiology ; *Probiotics/therapeutic use ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common dementia in the elderly population, typically manifested through symptoms of cognitive impairment (CI) and memory loss. Pathologically, it is characterized by abnormally elevated levels of amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition and tau phosphorylation. Given the rapid rate of population aging, many scientists are investigating AD, focusing on its pathogenic mechanisms and potential treatments. Unfortunately, to date, no highly effective therapeutic strategies have emerged. Intriguingly, multiple studies have revealed alterations in the gut microbiome of individuals with AD, suggesting it may serve as a novel avenue for investigating AD pathogenesis. Bifidobacterium, a pivotal probiotic in the gastrointestinal tract, is crucial in upholding the equilibrium of gut flora. Notably, marked deficiencies in Bifidobacterium have been observed in the guts of AD patients, underscoring the potential of further inquiry into the impact of Bifidobacteria on AD via the gut-microbe-brain axis. However, current research on the mechanisms through which Bifidobacteria can alleviate AD is limited, warranting further investigation. This review examines Bifidobacterial alterations in Alzheimer's disease patients and the underlying mechanisms, with the aim of evaluating their potential as a therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease.},
}

Humans
*Alzheimer Disease/therapy/microbiology/metabolism
*Bifidobacterium/physiology/immunology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Brain/metabolism/microbiology
*Probiotics/therapeutic use
Animals

@article {pmid41710876,
year = {2026},
author = {He, J and Liu, C and Ma, F and Zhou, Y and Liu, X},
title = {Global research trends and focus on biomarkers in lung cancer immunotherapy: a comprehensive bibliometric insight and visualization analysis (2001-2025).},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1622573},
pmid = {41710876},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Lung Neoplasms/therapy/immunology/metabolism ; *Immunotherapy/methods/trends ; Bibliometrics ; *Biomarkers, Tumor ; *Biomedical Research/trends ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Immunotherapy has revolutionized the therapeutic paradigm for lung cancer, yet its clinical efficacy exhibits significant interpatient heterogeneity. The implementation of personalized immunotherapy critically depends on the precise identification of predictive biomarkers. However, this field is currently characterized by rapid expansion of research outputs alongside marked fragmentation of knowledge domains, while a systematic evaluation of scientific advancements and emerging frontiers remains conspicuously absent. This study aims to synthesize global research achievements to methodologically delineate the evolutionary trajectory of immunotherapy biomarkers in lung cancer, identify research hotspots, and forecast developmental trends.

METHODS: A bibliometric analysis was conducted on 6,180 publications (2001-2025) from the Web of Science Core Collection. Advanced tools (Bibliometrix, VOSviewer, CiteSpace) were employed to analyze publication trends, country/institutional contributions, journal influence, author networks, keyword evolution, and citation dynamics.

RESULTS: The field progressed through incubation (2003-2014), rapid expansion (2015-2022), and maturation (2023-2025) phases, with a 28.87% annual growth rate. China led in productivity (9,394 publications), while the U.S. dominated academic impact (93,888 citations). Harvard University Harvard University emerged as the predominant contributor (532 publications). WANG Y was ranked first in the top 10 most prolific authors (97 publications) while RAMALINGAM SS (5,033 citations) was the most cited authors. CANCERS (319 papers; Q1) was the most published journal, while JOURNAL FOR IMMUNOTHERAPY OF CANCER (8,511 citations; Q1) was the most cited journal. Emerging frontiers encompassed genomics, gut microbiome, soluble PD-L1, and immune infiltration patterns, driven by multi-omics integration and artificial intelligence.

CONCLUSION: This study represents the first bibliometric analysis of biomarkers in lung cancer immunotherapy. Through scientometric visualization tools, our analysis delineates a paradigm shift from reductionist biomarker discovery to multidimensional integration and translational validation. Prospective advancements necessitate leveraging technological innovations, fostering international collaborative networks, and promoting multi-omics convergence. These efforts aim to facilitate a critical transition from population-based therapeutic strategies to precision-driven stratification, ultimately optimizing clinical outcomes and survival benefits for heterogeneous patient populations.},
}

Humans
*Lung Neoplasms/therapy/immunology/metabolism
*Immunotherapy/methods/trends
Bibliometrics
*Biomarkers, Tumor
*Biomedical Research/trends

@article {pmid41710744,
year = {2026},
author = {Lopes, LR and de Souza, AA and Dos Santos, TW and Dos Santos, RC},
title = {Harnessing Anthocyanins to Mitigate Inflammation, Dysbiosis, and Aging in the Gastrointestinal Tract.},
journal = {ACS pharmacology & translational science},
volume = {9},
number = {2},
pages = {252-271},
pmid = {41710744},
issn = {2575-9108},
abstract = {The gut microbiota are a dynamic ecosystem that is crucial for immune regulation and maintenance of intestinal barrier integrity. Dysbiosis within this community contributes to the chronic inflammation characteristic of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, for which no definitive cure currently exists. This comprehensive review examines recent preclinical and clinical studies on how anthocyanin-polyphenolic pigments, such as cyanidins and malvidins, modulate gut microbial communities, reduce intestinal inflammation, and counteract age-related declines in immune homeostasis. We analyzed the literature on anthocyanin-microbiota interactions in IBD pathogenesis, focusing on cytokine profiles, barrier function assays, lipopolysaccharide synthesis, oxidative stress markers, and short-chain fatty acid production. Additionally, we explored the relationship among cellular senescence, the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), and microbiome shifts during intestinal aging. Evidence indicates that anthocyanins consistently suppress key pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, TNF-α, and interferon-γ, while preserving mucosal architecture and reducing lipopolysaccharide load and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. These compounds help to restore microbial balance, promote short-chain fatty acid synthesis, and enrich bacterial taxa associated with barrier integrity. In aging models, anthocyanins attenuate oxidative stress, stabilize redox homeostasis, inhibit senescence signaling and SASP secretion, and partially restore anti-inflammatory interleukin-10 levels. In conclusion, anthocyanins are promising dietary therapeutics for IBD management and for mitigating intestinal aging. Future research should transition from murine models to human clinical trials by integrating senolytic strategies, targeted microbiome modulation, and pharmacological dissection of the senescence-microbiome axis to foster disease prevention and promote healthy aging.},
}

@article {pmid41710694,
year = {2026},
author = {Zeng, L},
title = {A comparative study on arginine metabolism by oral streptococci revealed both divergence and heterogeneity in dependence on arginine and significance of ornithine and citrulline.},
journal = {Journal of oral microbiology},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2630497},
pmid = {41710694},
issn = {2000-2297},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Current understanding in arginine metabolism by streptococci is limited in species and strains.

OBJECTIVES: We compared the ability of several abundant oral streptococci to synthesize and assimilate arginine.

DESIGN: Multiple species of oral streptococci and their genetic mutants were characterized for growth using synthetic media with specified amounts of arginine and related amino acids. Expression of relevant genes was quantified by RT-qPCR.

RESULTS: An intact arginine deiminase system (ADS) was required for S. sanguinis to grow with little or no arginine, a capacity substantially hindered by oxygen. Importantly, nearly all oral streptococci tested required arginine, ornithine or citrulline for growth, displaying much heterogeneity. S. mutans, while lacking ADS, grew without exogenous arginine; and presence of ornithine significantly affected its growth dynamics with strain-specific outcomes. Furthermore, loss of an ornithine transcarbamylase in S. mutans abolished ornithine-dependent effects and the ability to synthesize arginine. Expression of biosynthetic arg genes in both S. sanguinis and S. mutans was influenced, albeit differentially, by exogenous arginine, ornithine, oxygen, carbohydrates, and integrity of ADS and the major glucose transporter (EII[Man]).

CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggested that arginine is an essential nutrient for most oral streptococci, excluding S. mutans, and identified ornithine and citrulline as potential metabolic signals in oral microbiome.},
}

@article {pmid41710692,
year = {2026},
author = {Bao, J and Huang, M and Mao, H and Yao, Y and Zhang, S and Li, L and Chen, B and Han, L and Yan, F},
title = {Comparative effects of periodontitis - versus periodontal health-derived saliva on systemic lipid metabolism in mice: mediation through oral-gut axis.},
journal = {Journal of oral microbiology},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2630494},
pmid = {41710692},
issn = {2000-2297},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Periodontitis is linked to dyslipidaemia, but the mechanism still requires further investigation.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the periodontitis-dyslipidaemia interplay, comparing the impact of periodontitis-associated versus healthy salivary microbiota on systemic lipid metabolism in mice via the oral-gut axis.

DESIGN: NHANES analysis established epidemiological link. ApoE-/- mice received salivary microbiota from periodontally healthy (A-PH) or severe periodontitis (A-SP) donors. Serum lipids and gut microbiota were assessed; correlations between microbial shifts and lipid changes were evaluated.

RESULTS: NHANES confirmed significant association between self-reported physician-diagnosed bone loss around teeth and hypercholesterolemia (OR=1.266). A-SP mice exhibited higher TC, LDL and non-HDL compared with A-PH group. Gut dysbiosis featured increased proinflammatory genera (Helicobacter and Prevotella) and reduced beneficial bacteria (Mucispirillum, Parasutterella, and Barnesiella). Prevotella positively correlated with TC, Helicobacter with LDL; beneficial genera negatively correlated with atherogenic lipids.

CONCLUSIONS: Collectively, building upon the NHANES link, our findings demonstrate that the salivary microbiome from periodontitis patients, compared to that from healthy individuals, disrupts systemic lipid metabolism and induces gut dysbiosis in mice. The correlation between specific gut microbial shifts and atherogenic lipid profiles provides experimental support for the mediating role of the oral‒gut axis in linking periodontitis to hyperlipidaemia.},
}

@article {pmid41710534,
year = {2025},
author = {Akbar, I and Shi, Y and van de Vossenberg, BTLH and van der Lee, TAJ and Yao, L and Li, X and Chuan, J and Jewell, LE and Nguyen, HDT and Chen, W},
title = {Decoding microbiome responses to quarantine potato wart disease: first insights into suppression and biocontrol by full-length 16S rRNA gene profiling and functional prediction.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1707759},
pmid = {41710534},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Synchytrium endobioticum, the biotrophic pathogen causing potato wart, poses persistent challenges due to its long-term soil survival and quarantine status. Biological control agents (BCAs) offer a promising avenue for sustainable management, yet the ecological context of wart-associated microbiomes remains unexplored.

METHODS: We present the first comprehensive microbiome characterization of the potato wart disease system using full-length 16S rRNA gene Nanopore sequencing across bioassay-grown warts, field-collected wart tissues, diseased tare soils, and long-term descheduled (wart-free) soils. Whole genome amplification (WGA) enabled profiling of low-biomass samples, albeit with compositional shifts towards dominant taxa.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Microbiome compositional structure differed significantly across sieving fractions, host genotypes, and compartments (wart vs. tare soil). Wart microbiomes were enriched in Pseudomonas trivialis and Bacillus atrophaeus, taxa potentially involved in pathogen-specific suppression. Tare soils harbored transitional microbiomes shaped by host proximity, enriched with Bacillus species that may offer both generalist and targeted BCA activity. Descheduled soils under long-term nonhost crop rotations harbored broad-spectrum BCAs contributing to environmental sensing and nutrient requisition. Functional prediction suggested enrichment of xenobiotic degradation and chitin metabolism pathways in diseased soils, primarily associated with Bacillus, Pseudomonas, and Paenibacillus. Network analysis indicated fragile yet densely connected communities in diseased soils versus modular and stable structures in descheduled systems. Altogether, this study represents a first critical step toward developing biocontrol strategies for S. endobioticum by revealing a gradient of biocontrol reservoirs associated with disease pressure and management history. The use of functional prediction and correlation network tools provides essential starting points for hypothesis-driven research into disease suppression and biocontrol in a system with no prior microbiome data, and these findings warrant targeted isolation and in vitro/in planta validation for BCA development.},
}

@article {pmid41710518,
year = {2026},
author = {Odemer, R},
title = {Sunflower Pollen and Bumble Bee Health: Mechanisms, Modifiers and Trade-Offs.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {e73107},
pmid = {41710518},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Bumble bees face increasing pressure from interacting stressors, including pathogens, nutritional limitations, and agricultural intensification. Among natural dietary factors that modulate disease, Asteraceae pollen-particularly sunflower (Helianthus annuus)-has repeatedly been shown to reduce infection by the trypanosomatid Crithidia bombi in bumble bees under laboratory conditions. Yet the mechanisms, generality, and ecological relevance of these effects remain incompletely resolved, and field-based evidence from European systems, particularly for Bombus terrestris, is scarce. Here, I synthesise current knowledge on how Asteraceae pollen traits influence bumble bee health, focusing on the interplay between pollen morphology, phenolamide chemistry, nutrient composition, gut microbiota, and host physiology. I evaluate evidence for three non-exclusive mechanistic pathways-mechanical abrasion, chemical activity, and microbiome-associated effects-and review emerging evidence for nutritional, immunological, and colony-level trade-offs associated with medicinal pollen. To place these mechanisms in a field-relevant context, I integrate pollen-trap data from B. terrestris and Apis mellifera colonies foraging in Central European agricultural landscapes, indicating strong seasonal reliance on Solanaceae pollen, no uptake of sunflower pollen by B. terrestris, and moderate use of Silphium perfoliatum, a perennial Asteraceae crop of growing agroecological interest. Together, these patterns highlight a mismatch between laboratory efficacy and field-level pollen use, indicating that sunflower pollen is unlikely to function as a standalone medicinal resource under realistic foraging conditions. Instead, potential health effects of Asteraceae pollen appear context dependent and embedded within diverse nutritional landscapes. I identify key knowledge gaps-including cultivar-level chemical variation, species-specific responses, and interactions with co-occurring stressors-and outline research priorities for evaluating when and how medicinal pollen may contribute to pollinator-supportive cropping systems.},
}

@article {pmid41629396,
year = {2026},
author = {Norloff, E and Coker, K and Tusneem, S and Dixon, CT and Zhu, K and Graves, CL},
title = {Chronic early life stress alters the microbial and transcriptional profile of the zebrafish gut.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {6949},
pmid = {41629396},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {K12GM000678/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; T32AI007273/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; 2KR1432103//North Carolina Translational and Clinical Sciences Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill/ ; },
abstract = {Chronic early life stress (ELS) is appreciated to potently shape a myriad of biological outcomes later in life and has been associated with fertility deficits and the onset of gastrointestinal dysfunction in humans. Further, recent longitudinal cohort studies demonstrate that multigenerational adversity impacts the gut microbiome composition in early childhood, highlighting the gut-brain axis as an important target of ELS. Building on our recently published work demonstrating that ELS alters the neuroimmune profile of the developing zebrafish gut, our goal here was to establish a model of multigenerational ELS in zebrafish and determine cumulative stress impacts on fertility, gut microbial composition and the transcriptional landscape of the developing gut. Wild-type zebrafish were exposed to chronic ELS beginning at 6 dpf until 30 dpf according to our recently published stress paradigm for a total of four successive generations. We compared stressed and unstressed groups from either stressed or unstressed lineages and found that chronic ELS was associated with reduced egg viability and profound changes to the gut microbiome. RNA-sequencing revealed ELS-associated differential expression of more than 800 genes in founder generations. Altogether our data demonstrate that zebrafish are a powerful model for exploring neuroimmune interactions at mucosal surfaces across generations.},
}

@article {pmid41710320,
year = {2026},
author = {Kerai, T and Woolhouse, M and Nyazema, NZ and Mutapi, F},
title = {A narrative review of heterogeneity in SARS-CoV-2 infection outcomes and vaccine efficacy: strategizing pandemic preparedness in Africa.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1761547},
pmid = {41710320},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/immunology ; Africa/epidemiology ; *Vaccine Efficacy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; Pandemic Preparedness ; },
abstract = {Disease epidemiology during the COVID-19 pandemic differed greatly across the globe. In contrast to early pandemic predictions, Africa recorded the fewest SARS-CoV-2 related hospitalizations and deaths. Hypotheses proposed to explain this paradox include underreporting, age demographics, climate, national mitigation strategies, lifestyle factors, pre-existing cross-reactive protection, and host genetic determinants. This traditional, narrative review evaluates these hypotheses investigated in the published literature, and highlights knowledge gaps which limit our understanding and obscure validation of potential explanations. It also discusses how responses to vaccines, the primary intervention sought to control infectious disease outbreaks, may vary both within the African population and across other continents. Potential explanations in the literature include pre-existing immunity, poor nutrition, immune modulating co-infections, comorbidities, microbiome composition, genetic polymorphisms, and demographic factors. Previous studies have shown that pre-existing (infection-derived) immunity or cross-reactive immune responses can augment vaccine-elicited positive responses and can protect against reinfection in a way similar to immunization. Conversely, there are also studies showing that prior immunity interferes with the efficacy of new vaccines through mechanisms like original antigenic sin and immune imprinting. Thus, there is need for more immunology studies to understand the relative contribution of pre-existing cross-reactive immune responses to the epidemiology of new pathogens. These studies are particularly essential to understand the differences between pandemic preparedness and population vulnerability, as well as to inform vaccine development and vaccine effectiveness monitoring studies. SARS-CoV-2 serves as an important case study to understand heterogeneity between and within populations in immune responses to both the pathogen and to vaccination. This understanding is crucial in informing vaccine research and development aimed at supporting the 100-day mission for when the next pandemic threat emerges.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/immunology
Africa/epidemiology
*Vaccine Efficacy
SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*Pandemics/prevention & control
Pandemic Preparedness

@article {pmid41710234,
year = {2026},
author = {Kumar, P and Rani, S and Dahiya, P and Kaur, B and Kumar, P and Arora, K and Kumar, A and Dang, AS and Suneja, P},
title = {Indole-3-Acetic Acid Production and Molecular Insights into its Biosynthetic Pathway.},
journal = {Indian journal of microbiology},
volume = {66},
number = {1},
pages = {1-19},
pmid = {41710234},
issn = {0046-8991},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: IAA synthesis by endophytes plays an important role in establishing a successful relationship between bacteria and plants. There are multiple pathways of IAA biosynthesis, IPyA pathway being widespread among endophytes. A total of five bacterial endophytes, Pseudomonas lini PRN1, Bacillus sp. PHR5, Ochrobactrum sp. PHR6, Bacillus sp. AJhN4 and Pantoea agglomerans CPHN2, were used in the present study. Out of these, three isolates Bacillus sp. PHR5, Ochrobactrum sp. PHR6, and Bacillus sp. AJhN4 were screened and optimized for IAA production by varying physicochemical parameters using OFAT. The presence of IAA in crude extracts was confirmed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) using IAA as standard. The highest IAA producing isolate was further used for scale-up of IAA production. Maximum production of 947 µg/ml IAA was obtained with 10% inoculum size, pH 9, DO of 60 after 19 h at 30 °C using 2-L stirred tank bioreactor. The study was further carried out, to specifically decipher the IAA pathway in this isolates and to characterize the ipdC gene. The genomic analysis of ipdC gene sequence of P. agglomerans CPHN2 performed and specific primers designed after annotation and amplicons of size 1720 bp and 2500 bp were obtained respectively. It was also observed that the IPDC protein is coded by the negative or antisense strand of DNA. Homology modelling approach was employed to develop a structural model of the IPDC proteins by utilizing sequences from closely related organisms, as well as from P. agglomerans CPHN2 IPDC protein sequence. All IPDC protein models exhibited significantly higher binding energy with indole-3-pyruvate compared to pyruvate. Among these, the IPDC from P. agglomerans CPHN2 showed the maximum binding energy with indole-3-pyruvate relative to other IPDC proteins. In the present study, the identification of the Indole-3-pyruvate (IPyA) pathway and characterization of the ipdC gene in Pantoea agglomerans offers insights into optimizing the IAA production for sustainable agriculture. Understanding the enzymatic pathways also opens avenues for genetic engineering in microbial biotechnology.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12088-025-01535-3.},
}

@article {pmid41710230,
year = {2026},
author = {Sundaram, K and Vajravelu, LK},
title = {Tuberculosis Prognosis and Clinical Synergistic Activity with gut Microbiome.},
journal = {Indian journal of microbiology},
volume = {66},
number = {1},
pages = {84-94},
pmid = {41710230},
issn = {0046-8991},
abstract = {The association between tuberculosis and gut microbiota is notable clinical synergistic action. Tuberculosis is a highly contagious illness that poses a huge global risk. Mycobacterium tuberculosis, an acid-fast bacillus, is responsible for one of the top ten death associated lethal infection. The study of human commensal bacteria has a strong link to tuberculosis and its treatment. The gut microbiota is frequently altered with antimycobacterial drugs. Importantly, there was a significant association found between the gut microbiome and the brain via the gut-brain axis. This interaction is also thought to exist along the gut-liver and gut-lung axis, with possible connections to appropriate organs as well. Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Verrucomicrobia, and Fusobacteria make up the majority of the microbiota in mammals' guts. Crucially, substantial data from human and animal studies shows that mycobacterial infection causes an imbalance in the gut microbiota, known as gut microbial dysbiosis. This dysbiosis is distinguished by variations in the abundance of certain microbes, particularly those that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as Bifidobacterium and Ruminococcus. The review examined various studies on the association between tuberculosis and gut microbiota in order to develop a clinical algorithm and potential immune regulation against tuberculosis employing crucial gut commensal bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid41710228,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, W and Wei, F and Liu, H and Lv, M and Zhao, D and Qin, X and Liu, X},
title = {Microbiome-Metabolomics Reveals the Bidirectional Associations Between Aging and Depression.},
journal = {Indian journal of microbiology},
volume = {66},
number = {1},
pages = {243-259},
pmid = {41710228},
issn = {0046-8991},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Aging increases the susceptibility to depression, and depression accelerates the aging process of body. However, it is needed to be studied deeply that the connotations of the correlation between aging and depression. By integrally applying metabolome and microbiome techniques, the study aimed to explore underlying mechanisms of bidirectional associations between aging and depression. Aging rat model and depression rat model were carried out. Classical behaviors were measured to assess the impacts of aging and depression on rats. On top of this, potential changes in the organism are revealed to elucidate the bi-directional associations between aging and depression based on the 16S rRNA sequencing of gut flora and [1]H-NMR of gut metabolites, respectively. Depression weakened the ability of autonomous activities, spatial memory, and gastrointestinal functions of rats, which are also closely related to aging. Vice versa, aging also weakens the autonomous activities of rats, which frequently appears in depression. Secondly, valine, propionate, etc. are potential fecal metabolites that are commonly shared by aging and depression, and these metabolites are closely related to changes in gut microbiota composition. Lastly, both aging and depression decreased the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes. Spearman's analysis found that a variety of metabolites, including proline, strongly correlated with Lactobacillus and Corynebacterium, suggesting that these bacterial species play a significant role in the metabolic changes observed in both aging and depression. Meanwhile, differential metabolites and gut microbiota were strongly associated with the number of rearings and gastrointestinal movement of rats, suggesting that potential associations between aging and depression remarkably occur at multiple levels. Exploring the bidirectional association of aging and depression from the perspectives of metabolome and microbiome will not only deepen our understanding of aging and depression, but also provide novel ideas for clinically treating the co-existence and co-occurrence of aging with depression.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12088-025-01538-0.},
}

@article {pmid41710156,
year = {2026},
author = {Espinosa, P and Hinojosa-Figueroa, MS and Vallejo, P and Pérez, F and Burneo, G and Villarreal, C and Rodas, JA and Leon-Rojas, JE},
title = {Microbial dysbiosis as a diagnostic marker in psychiatric disorders: a systematic review of gut-brain axis disruptions.},
journal = {Frontiers in neuroscience},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {1728473},
pmid = {41710156},
issn = {1662-4548},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Mental health disorders represent a major global health burden. Recent interest has surged in the microbiome-gut-brain axis, which may influence psychiatric pathophysiology. This systematic review evaluates alterations in intestinal microbiome (IM) composition between individuals with psychiatric disorders-such as schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood and eating disorders-and healthy controls, with a focus on diagnostic relevance.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review across PubMed, Scopus, CENTRAL, and PsycINFO, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Studies were included if psychiatric diagnoses were made using DSM-V and intestinal dysbiosis was characterised at the phylum, family, and genus levels. Only observational and interventional studies were considered. Microbial alterations were extracted and analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Risk of bias was assessed using NIH Quality Assessment Tools.

RESULTS: A total of 80 studies involving 2,691 participants met the inclusion criteria. Across disorders, consistent disruptions were observed in Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria phyla presented as the percentage of affected patients within each disorder. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was associated with decreased Firmicutes (↓ 4.79%) and Bacteroidetes (↓ 3.29%) and increased Bifidobacteriaceae (↑ 5.86%) and Eggerthellaceae (↑ 5.50%). Mood disorders, including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, showed increased Christensenellaceae (↑ 18.1%) and decreased Ruminococcaceae (↓ 2.0%). Schizophrenia was marked by elevations in Lachnospiraceae, Christensenellaceae, and Enterobacteriaceae (↑ 11-28%) and reductions in Akkermansia and Turicibacteraceae (↓ 9-28%). Anorexia nervosa and binge eating disorder displayed profound dysbiosis, including ↓ Lactobacillus (48.5%) and complete loss of Akkermansia (100%). ADHD showed a Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes imbalance (↑ 49.8%, ↓ 56.6%). These alterations suggest microbial signatures that are both disorder-specific and partially overlapping.

CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight reproducible patterns of gut microbial dysbiosis that may represent candidate microbial biomarkers and inform future diagnostic research. Microbiome profiling has potential as a non-invasive adjunct to psychiatric diagnosis, warranting further exploration. Future longitudinal and mechanistic studies using standardised methods are essential to validate these microbial signatures and their diagnostic utility.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42021254293, CRD42021254293.},
}

@article {pmid41710143,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, X and Zhang, Y and Shi, LJ and Wang, H},
title = {Dual Role of the Endometrial Microbiome-Immune Axis: From Endometrial Homeostasis to Reproductive Disorders.},
journal = {International journal of women's health},
volume = {18},
number = {},
pages = {559370},
pmid = {41710143},
issn = {1179-1411},
abstract = {The homeostasis of the uterine environment is crucial for reproductive health. Recent studies have revealed the complex interplay between the endometrial microbiome, immune system, and the endometrium. Under normal physiological conditions, the microbiome, primarily composed of Lactobacillus species, promotes a healthy reproductive environment by maintaining local immune homeostasis, inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, and regulating the integrity of the endometrial barrier. However, dysbiosis can abnormally activate local immune responses, disrupting the immune tolerance mechanisms of the endometrium and thereby compromising pregnancy maintenance and overall reproductive health. This study uniquely highlights the role of the endometrial microbiome in modulating immune responses specifically within the uterine environment, a critical factor for reproductive success. Our findings also suggest novel therapeutic strategies targeting microbiome modulation and immune regulation, offering promising avenues for improving reproductive health outcomes. This review aims to explore the regulatory mechanisms of the microbiome-immune axis in both physiological and pathological conditions, with a particular focus on how these interactions specifically influence the uterine environment, while also considering the broader implications of microbiome-immune interactions throughout the entire body. We will analyze its potential role in reproductive health issues and discuss new therapeutic strategies based on microbiome and immune modulation.},
}

@article {pmid41710083,
year = {2026},
author = {Boracchini, R and Canova, C and Bendoni, S and Di Chiara, C and Giaquinto, C and Baraldi, E and Cantarutti, A},
title = {Recurrent wheezing as a mediator between early-life exposures and childhood asthma: a mediation analysis in an Italian primary care paediatric cohort.},
journal = {BMJ public health},
volume = {4},
number = {1},
pages = {e003442},
pmid = {41710083},
issn = {2753-4294},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Asthma represents a significant global public health concern, especially in children, due to its high prevalence and burden on the healthcare system. Early-life exposures, particularly to antibiotics and bronchiolitis, have been independently linked to an increased risk of wheezing and subsequent asthma. Despite extensive research on these risk factors, their interplay and combined impact throughout early childhood remains unclear. This study aims to clarify these relationships by investigating the mediating role of recurrent wheezing in the inception of childhood asthma.

METHODS: A retrospective birth-cohort study was conducted using data from the Italian Pedianet database, including children followed for at least 5 years. Exposure to antibiotics and bronchiolitis during the first year, episodes of wheezing between ages 1-4, and asthma diagnoses from age 5 onward were identified in outpatient records. Mediation analysis assessed the association between early-life exposures and asthma risk, with recurrent wheezing considered a potential mediator.

RESULTS: Among 121 255 children, 2.33% developed asthma after age 5. Our results support the hypothesis that early-life bronchiolitis and antibiotic use increase asthma risk through an indirect pathway mediated by recurrent wheezing, which accounts for the majority of the effect (up to 74%), and a direct pathway, independent of wheezing, which may reflect mechanisms such as immune dysregulation, airway remodelling or microbiome alterations. The strong mediated component underscores recurrent wheezing as a clinically relevant marker and key target for preventive strategies. Nonetheless, the presence of a residual direct effect suggests that interventions focusing exclusively on wheezing may not entirely eliminate asthma risk (up to 70%), even though they could substantially reduce it.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight the importance of preventing bronchiolitis and wheezing to reduce asthma incidence, supporting antibiotic stewardship and respiratory syncytial virus immunisation as public health interventions.},
}

@article {pmid41710035,
year = {2026},
author = {John, J and Ortiz, M and Ramond, P and Campbell, BJ},
title = {Functional redundancy and metabolic flexibility of microbial communities in two Mid-Atlantic bays.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag021},
pmid = {41710035},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Functional redundancy (FRed) is expected to buffer ecosystems against change, yet it has rarely been characterized in natural systems. How changes in microbial metabolisms, activity, and FRed in ecosystems are influenced by temporal, spatial, and environmental patterns is especially unclear. Here, we analyzed paired metagenomic and metatranscriptomic datasets from surface water samples collected in the Chesapeake and Delaware Bays, USA. These adjacent estuaries experience similar climatic conditions but differ in nutrient availability, salinity, and other environmental factors. We reconstructed 345 high quality metagenome assembled genomes and assessed their metabolic flexibility, and the extent of gene encoded (potential) and expressed (realized) FRed as a function of environmental drivers, microbial lifestyle (free living vs. particle attached), and gene function. The microbiomes exhibited high metabolic flexibility, reflecting their potential, and in many cases, realized gene expression, to exploit diverse energy sources, ranging from organic carbon substrates to trace gases. Potential and expressed FRed varied across seasons, lifestyles, and gene functions, and was structured within each bay by environmental factors such as temperature, salinity, and concentrations of phosphate, silicate, and chlorophyll a. These findings highlight variability in community-level metabolism, and FRed across estuarine microbiomes, shaped by environmental conditions, seasonality, and lifestyle, and provide insights into how these communities may respond to future perturbations.},
}

@article {pmid41709968,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, J and Pan, S and Huo, W and Wang, W and Tan, Z and Wu, Y and Kong, Y and Yin, C and Gan, K and Zhao, M and Gao, M and Xia, Q and Li, J and Lu, Y and Yang, R and Liu, Y},
title = {Fuzheng Jiedu Formula Ameliorates Acute Lung Injury by Modulating Gut Microbiota to Enhance Short-Chain Fatty Acid.},
journal = {Journal of inflammation research},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {556752},
pmid = {41709968},
issn = {1178-7031},
abstract = {AIM OF STUDY: The objective of this research is to clarify the mechanism by which FZJDF mitigates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- ALI through the enhancement of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production by Clostridium butyricum (C. butyricum), and the modulation of the gut microbiota-gut-lung axis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The mice were treated with FZJDF for 7 days and then treated with LPS. The therapeutic efficacy of FZJDF against LPS-induced ALI was evaluated through lung-to-weight ratio, Inflammatory factor, pathological changes. Additionally, the intestinal barrier function was evaluated by analyzing tight junction protein expression levels. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was employed to monitor alterations in the intestinal microbiome and pulmonary microbiota, while gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) were utilized to quantify the concentrations of SCFAs. Ultimately, the necessity of C. butyricum for FZJDF's therapeutic influence was confirmed through antibiotic-mediated gut microbiota depletion.

RESULTS: FZJDF significantly decreased lung-to-weight ratio and reducing inflammatory cell infiltration of neutrophils. Furthermore, it significantly elevated the expression levels of tight junction proteins. It is plausible that FZJDF may improve intestinal and lung microecological imbalance and stimulate the synthesis of SCFAs. Notably, we determine C. butyricum as the crucial bacterium for the role of FZJDF in gut barrier repair and suppression of lung inflammation in ALI mice. The use of antibiotics led to the repair of the intestinal barrier and a failure in SCFAs production, whereas C. butyricum colonization restores the therapeutic effect of FZJDF in ALI mice, further confirming that FZJDF attenuates ALI.

CONCLUSION: Our results imply that FZJDF could exert its palliative effect in ALI by regulating the intestinal microbiota to increase the production of SCFAs, which in turn inhibits neutrophil-mediated inflammatory responses. These findings support microbiota-targeted traditional medicine as a translational strategy for acute lung injury.},
}

@article {pmid41709953,
year = {2026},
author = {Chung, PH and Boursi, B and Baris, H and Leong, JY and Nickel, JC and Chisari, E and Parvizi, J and Tipton, CD and Ancira, J and Hochberg, A and Rifkin, J and Phillips, CD},
title = {Variations in Urinary Microbiota on a Short-Duration Space Mission to the International Space Station.},
journal = {JU open plus},
volume = {4},
number = {2},
pages = {e00017},
pmid = {41709953},
issn = {2771-554X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Space travel exposes crew to substantial stressors, which may potentially alter their microbiome and be detrimental to their health and safety. We hypothesize that urinary microbiota is altered during a short-duration spaceflight to the International Space Station (ISS).

METHODS: Urine samples were collected from 4 male crew members. One crew member provided samples while on orbit on the ISS using a urine collection kit (UCK) designed for low-gravity environments. This crew member also provided paired mid-stream and UCK samples on Earth prelaunch and on return for direct comparison of collection methods. Three additional crew members provided mid-stream samples prelaunch and on return, and also for follow-up timepoints to serve as ex post facto control samples. Urine was stored at -80℃ and sent for 16s next-generation sequencing (MicroGenDX, Lubbock, TX).

RESULTS: Bacterial load (P = .52), species richness (P = .64), and differences in microbiota composition (P = .26) did not significantly vary by the collection method (mid-stream vs UCK). Significant differences in species richness, load, and microbial composition among preflight, orbital, and return mission samples were detected (P = .047, F = 1.8092, df = 2.9, R2 = 0.34076). Orbital microbial composition significantly differed from preflight (P = .03) and return (P = .03), whereas preflight and return samples did not differ (P > .05). Comparison with the limited follow-up ex post facto Earth-bound samples serving as controls showed no significant differences among preflight or return mission samples, but preflight (P = .04) and return (P = .05) did significantly differ compositionally from orbital samples. Continuous temporal effects on composition were evaluated through which bacterial load (P = .05) was statistically significant, peaking during the orbital period.

CONCLUSIONS: Results are consistent with an effect of space travel altering the urinary microbiota. Further studies are needed to confirm this result and to better understand whether such changes may be detrimental to the health and safety of space travelers and professional astronauts.},
}

@article {pmid41709889,
year = {2026},
author = {Salo, V and Remitz, A and Lauerma, A and Salava, A},
title = {Topical probiotic Lactobacillus lactis treatment in atopic dermatitis: a placebo-controlled pilot study on tolerability and efficacy.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1694229},
pmid = {41709889},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Microbiome-targeted treatments have been investigated in atopic dermatitis (AD). We aimed to investigate the tolerability and efficacy of probiotic Lactobacillus lactis lysate cream in AD.

METHODS: A total of 13 patients with mild-to-moderate AD were treated with differently concentrated probiotic creams (3, 10, and 30%) for 4 weeks. The severity of AD [Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) and Investigator Global Assessment (IGA)], epidermal barrier function (TEWL), and the impact of AD [Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM), Atopic Dermatitis Control Tool (ADCT), and pruritus and sleep disturbance visual analog scale (VAS)] were measured at baseline (BL) and at 4 and 8 weeks. Comprehensive clinical patient data and laboratory values, including blood eosinophil count, total serum IgE levels, and specific IgEs to aeroallergens, were obtained.

RESULTS: Comparison of the treatment groups and longitudinal comparisons at various time points showed no significant differences regarding AD severity (EASI, p = 0.76, CI: 0.65-1.00), epidermal barrier dysfunction (TEWL, p = 0.37, CI: 0.19-0.73), or patient-reported subjective impact of AD (DLQI, p = 0.76, CI: 0.65-1.00; POEM, p = 0.76, CI: 0.35-0.88; ADCT, p = 0.72, CI: 0.65-1.00; pruritus VAS 0.67, CI: 0.55-1.00; sleep disturbance VAS, p = 1.00, CI: 0.79-1.00) between different probiotic lysate concentrations and placebo. The probiotic lysate cream was well-tolerated, and there were no significant adverse effects. The limitations of the study were the small patient cohort and group sizes. There was also a relatively short follow-up, and no evaluation of long-term effects was conducted.

DISCUSSION: In our patient cohort, topical probiotic L. lactis lysate cream showed good tolerability, but it did not show efficacy in the treatment of mild-to-moderate AD. Although topical probiotics have been reported to be effective in a limited number of studies, more placebo-controlled clinical studies are needed to explore their potential role in the treatment of AD.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: https://eudract.ema.europa.eu, Identifier EudraCT 2020-000514-15.},
}

@article {pmid41709871,
year = {2026},
author = {Fuller, DT and Mondal, S and Sur, S and Pal, N},
title = {Dirichlet Distribution Parameter Estimation With Applications in Microbiome Analyses.},
journal = {Statistics in medicine},
volume = {45},
number = {3-5},
pages = {e70454},
doi = {10.1002/sim.70454},
pmid = {41709871},
issn = {1097-0258},
mesh = {*Microbiota ; Humans ; Computer Simulation ; *Models, Statistical ; Likelihood Functions ; Sample Size ; },
abstract = {Microbiome analysis is the process of identifying the composition and function of a community of microorganisms in a particular location, which is essential in understanding human and environmental health. Properly quantifying microbial composition, however, remains challenging and relies on statistical modeling of either the raw taxonomic abundances or the relative abundances. Relative abundance measures are commonly preferred over the absolute abundances for microbiome analysis because absolute abundance values are dependent on the sequencing depth and sequencing method. Despite this, literature on modeling relative abundance by meaningful probability distribution, followed by subsequent statistical inferences, is limited. In this work, the Dirichlet distribution is proposed to model the relative abundances of taxa directly without the use of any further transformation (e.g., additive log-ratio transform, isometric log-ratio transform). In a comprehensive simulation study, we have compared biases and standard errors of two methods of moments estimators (MMEs) and the maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) of the Dirichlet distribution. comparison of these estimators is done over three cases of differing sample size and dimension: (i) Small dimension and small sample size; (ii) small dimension and large sample size; (iii) large dimension with both small and large sample sizes. As expected, the MLE shows the overall best performance because there is no loss of information since this estimator is based on the (minimal) sufficient statistics. We then explore the asymptotic properties of the MLE utilizing the Fisher information alongside our simulation results. We demonstrate the applicability of Dirichlet modeling methodology with four real world microbiome datasets and show how the estimated mean relative abundances obtained from the Dirichlet MLE (DMLE) differ from those obtained by a commonly used method, that is-Bayesian Dirichlet-multinomial estimator (BDME), which works with absolute abundances. For all the four datasets, the DMLE results are comparable to the BDME results while requiring much less computational time for both single uses and for large simulations.},
}

*Microbiota
Humans
Computer Simulation
*Models, Statistical
Likelihood Functions
Sample Size

@article {pmid41709346,
year = {2026},
author = {Araújo, M and Mendes-Frias, A and Silvestre, R},
title = {Sex differences in immune modulation: implications for infection, inflammation, and nutritional supplementation.},
journal = {Biology of sex differences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13293-026-00857-1},
pmid = {41709346},
issn = {2042-6410},
support = {10.54499/2022.13772//Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia/ ; 10.54499/2021.07836//Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia/ ; 10.54499/LA/P/0050/2020//Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia/ ; },
abstract = {The immune system is central to maintaining homeostasis and orchestrating defense against infection and the regulation of inflammatory responses, yet its activity is far from uniform across individuals. Sex differences profoundly shape immune responses, with sex hormones driving distinct patterns of susceptibility to infectious diseases and inflammatory conditions. Nutrition further adds a powerful layer of modulation: vitamins, amino acids, and other bioactive compounds influence immune function and disease outcomes, often in a sex-dependent manner. The microbiome, whose composition is itself influenced by sex, is a critical regulator of both intestinal and systemic immune disorders, making it an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. In this review, we examine the dynamic interplay between sex, nutrition, and the immune system, emphasizing their combined impact on infection, inflammation, and immunomodulation. A deeper understanding of these interactions will be key to advancing personalized nutritional and therapeutic strategies designed to optimize immune health.},
}

@article {pmid41709287,
year = {2026},
author = {Toyoshi, E and Watanabe, M and Namai, F and Yamane, K and Kashima, T and Ikeda-Ohtsubo, W and Agista, AZ and Yoshida, A and Sakuma, T and Fukuda, I and Suzuki, K and Yoshioka, G and Imai, Y and Tsuchida, S and Nishiyama, E and Shinkai, H and Muneta, Y and Uenishi, H and Tobe, R and Shirakawa, H and Maekawa, M and Mano, N and Kitazawa, H and Nishiyama, K},
title = {Dynamics of tryptophan metabolites and microbial adaptations during corn by-product fermentation in the pig gut microbiome.},
journal = {Journal of animal science and biotechnology},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {32},
pmid = {41709287},
issn = {1674-9782},
support = {Grant-in-Aid for Challenging Research (Exploratory) (23K18072)//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)/ ; Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B) (23K27051)//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)/ ; Development of Innovative Technology grant (JPJ007097)//Bio-oriented Technology Research Advancement Institution (BRAIN)/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Food by-products, such as corn germ meal from starch processing, are increasingly used as sustainable feed supplements, reducing competition between food and feed and supporting the valorisation of food waste. However, their effects on gut microbial metabolism and host health remain unclear. This study aimed to determine how corn germ meal fermentation influences microbial community structure and metabolite production using an ex vivo pig faecal culture system.

RESULTS: Corn germ meal supplementation significantly altered the microbial composition, increasing diversity and enriching fibre-degrading Prevotellaceae, a key bacterial family involved in complex carbohydrate metabolism. Metabolomic analysis revealed marked increases in tryptophan-derived metabolites, including indoleacrylic acid, indolepropionic acid, and indolelactic acid, which act as ligands for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and have anti-inflammatory properties. Prevotella-mediated catabolite repression reduced Escherichia coli-derived indole formation, redirecting microbial tryptophan metabolism toward the production of these bioactive compounds. Microbial and metabolic responses differed among farms, reflecting farm-specific microbiome structures.

CONCLUSIONS: Corn germ meal supplementation reshapes gut microbial communities, enhances metabolic activity, and promotes the generation of bioactive tryptophan metabolites with potential immunomodulatory effects. These findings highlight the value of corn by-products as dietary fibres that can drive beneficial microbial cross-feeding and influence host intestinal homeostasis. Although demonstrated in an ex vivo setting, this study provides a mechanistic basis and preclinical evidence for future in vivo studies, supporting the sustainable utilisation of food industry by-products to improve gut health and resource efficiency in livestock production.},
}

@article {pmid41709267,
year = {2026},
author = {Baquer, F and Grillon, A},
title = {Interaction between tick and host microbiotas: a four-step waltz.},
journal = {Parasites & vectors},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13071-026-07308-1},
pmid = {41709267},
issn = {1756-3305},
abstract = {Tick-borne diseases represent a growing public health concern worldwide, yet the microbial factors that govern pathogen transmission remain incompletely understood. Over the past decade, high-throughput metagenomics and functional studies have revealed that two distinct microbial communities-the vertebrate host's skin microbiota and the tick's own microbiome-act synergistically as key modulators of pathogen acquisition, persistence within the vector, and successful transmission to the vertebrate host. At the feeding site, the skin microbiota orchestrates local cutaneous immunity, influences inflammatory responses, and can either hinder or inadvertently facilitate dermal establishment of tick-borne pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.), Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Rickettsia species, Babesia spp., and tick-borne encephalitis virus. Tick feeding itself induces rapid and sometimes long-lasting dysbiosis of the skin microbial community, creating temporal windows of vulnerability for pathogen invasion. Concurrently, within the tick vector, a core set of endosymbiotic bacteria, including Rickettsia buchneri, Midichloria mitochondrii, Coxiella-like, and Francisella-like endosymbionts, engage in complex mutualistic, competitive, and facilitative interactions. These symbionts regulate vector competence through nutrient provisioning (especially B-vitamins), direct competition for niche space, and immune priming or suppression of the tick's innate immune system. Such interactions ultimately determine the maintenance, abundance, and transmissibility of tick-borne pathogens. By integrating these dual host-vector microbiome perspectives in a comprehensive review, we highlight emerging mechanistic insights into transmission ecology and biologically grounded targets for the prevention and control of tick-borne diseases, including anti-microbiota vaccines and paratransgenic and microbiome-based approaches.},
}

@article {pmid41709136,
year = {2026},
author = {Ferrary Américo, M and Vilela Rodrigues, T and Henry, C and Marques da Silva, W and Verano-Braga, T and Azevedo, V and Chatel, JM},
title = {Insights into the proteome of next-generation probiotic Faecalibacterium duncaniae A2-165 through label-free proteomics approach.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-04814-1},
pmid = {41709136},
issn = {1471-2180},
}

@article {pmid41709019,
year = {2026},
author = {Marco, ML and Cunningham, M and Bischoff, SC and Clarke, G and Delzenne, N and Lewis, JD and Meisel, M and Merenstein, D and O'Toole, PW and Staudacher, HM and Szajewska, H and Wells, JM and Quigley, EMM},
title = {The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) consensus statement on the definition and scope of gut health.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Gastroenterology & hepatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41709019},
issn = {1759-5053},
abstract = {The term 'gut health' is increasingly used as a catch-all phrase by many stakeholders, including scientists, health-care professionals, industry and the general public, to describe a wide range of health-related concepts. Despite its widespread use, particularly in relation to studies on diet, fermented foods, biotics and the gut microbiome, it remains unclear what the term gut health means. Therefore, an expert panel was convened by the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics to address the current state of scientific and clinical knowledge on the physiology, manifestation, application and measurement of the concept of gut health. The panel evaluated the term in the context of the central role of the gastrointestinal tract in health and overall well-being and proposed a definition of gut health as "a state of normal gastrointestinal function without active gastrointestinal disease and gut-related symptoms that affect quality of life". The definition was developed mindful of the functional, subjective and extrinsic domains that contribute to gut health. In this Consensus Statement, clinically relevant and accessible metrics to assess these domains are reviewed and a comprehensive approach to gut health is proposed that is relevant to clinical practice as well as to studies of dietary and biotic interventions.},
}

@article {pmid41708960,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, SS and Ye, L and Li, XX and Dai, QQ and Gao, Y and Chen, GH and Fang, YS and Zhao, HC and Du, WD},
title = {Intratumoral microbiome evaluated progression and outcome of patients with HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma.},
journal = {Discover oncology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s12672-026-04654-5},
pmid = {41708960},
issn = {2730-6011},
support = {2017zhyx37//Institute of Translational Medicine of Anhui Province/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41708693,
year = {2026},
author = {Gottschalk, EC and Chabanovska, O and Vasudevan, P and Barrantes, I and Kreikemeyer, B and Bergmann-Ewert, W and Engelmann, R and Müller-Hilke, B and Lang, H},
title = {Potential biomarkers for early periodontal inflammation: investigating CD5[+] B cells, salivary cytokines and oral microbiome.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {7192},
pmid = {41708693},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Biomarkers/metabolism ; Female ; *CD5 Antigens/metabolism ; Middle Aged ; *Saliva/metabolism ; Adult ; *B-Lymphocytes/metabolism/immunology ; *Cytokines/metabolism ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Microbiota ; *Periodontitis/metabolism/microbiology/diagnosis ; *Chronic Periodontitis/microbiology/metabolism ; Inflammation ; Gingivitis/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Periodontitis is a highly prevalent chronic inflammatory disease that causes progressive destruction of the tooth-supporting apparatus and is linked to multiple systemic disorders. Despite its high prevalence, early biomarkers capable of predicting individual susceptibility remain elusive. The multifactorial nature of the disease and the lack of a validated, specific indicators hinder reliable early diagnosis before irreversible tissue damage occurs. CD5[+] B cells, known for their autoreactive potential and role in bone resorption, have been previously found elevated in advanced periodontitis. Due to their association with tissue destruction, these cells may hold predictive value even at earlier stages. However, their systemic relevance in early periodontal inflammation is scarcely explored. This cross-sectional study examined differential subsets of circulating CD5[+] B cells as potential systemic biomarkers of early periodontal disease. Sixty patients were grouped as healthy, gingivitis and moderate chronic periodontitis. Multiple regression analysis revealed that besides age (p = 0.009), the double negative (CD27[-]IgD[-]) subset of CD5[+] memory B cells was related to periodontitis, while total CD5[+] B cell levels remained unchanged. To characterize the oral inflammatory milieu, salivary cytokines and the composition of the subgingival microbiome were analyzed. Salivary IL-8 levels and IL-17A detection rates were significantly elevated in periodontitis. Microbiome profiling further identified an exploratory correlation between Megasphaera and salivary IL-8 in gingivitis, which may represent an early-stage signal but requires validation in larger follow-up cohorts.},
}

Humans
Male
Biomarkers/metabolism
Female
*CD5 Antigens/metabolism
Middle Aged
*Saliva/metabolism
Adult
*B-Lymphocytes/metabolism/immunology
*Cytokines/metabolism
Cross-Sectional Studies
*Microbiota
*Periodontitis/metabolism/microbiology/diagnosis
*Chronic Periodontitis/microbiology/metabolism
Inflammation
Gingivitis/microbiology

@article {pmid41708595,
year = {2026},
author = {Moses, AB and Yeh, AC},
title = {The gut microbiome in graft-versus-host disease: mechanisms of immune modulation and therapeutic approaches.},
journal = {Gut microbes},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2631224},
doi = {10.1080/19490976.2026.2631224},
pmid = {41708595},
issn = {1949-0984},
mesh = {*Graft vs Host Disease/immunology/therapy/microbiology ; Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology ; Animals ; Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation/adverse effects ; Immunity, Innate ; T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; Gastrointestinal Tract/microbiology/immunology ; Adaptive Immunity ; Probiotics/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) remains a major complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and occurs when T cells from the donor graft target recipient-derived antigen on host tissue. The involvement of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract drives morbidity and mortality-not coincidentally, the GI tract also harbors the most complex and abundant human microbial reservoir. In this review, we first revisit how the microbiota initiates, propagates, and protects against GvHD in the context of both innate and adaptive immunity. Historically, the impact of the microbiota on GvHD has been ascribed primarily to the activation of innate immunity, setting the stage for donor alloreactivity. Although established models of GvHD focus on donor-host genetic disparity as the principal driver of donor T-cell activation, commensal microbes in the GI tract, whose collective gene content exceeds that of the human genome by more than two orders of magnitude, constitutes an immense and poorly understood source of potential T-cell antigens. We next discuss the evolution of therapeutic approaches aimed at modifying the microbiota to improve GvHD outcomes, incorporating over 40 clinical studies spanning the last 40 years, from broad decontamination strategies to pre/probiotic approaches and targeted ecosystem replacement, including fecal microbiota transplantation.},
}

*Graft vs Host Disease/immunology/therapy/microbiology
Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology
Animals
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation/adverse effects
Immunity, Innate
T-Lymphocytes/immunology
Gastrointestinal Tract/microbiology/immunology
Adaptive Immunity
Probiotics/administration & dosage

@article {pmid41708505,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, F and Cheng, P and Li, L and Li, W and Tu, C and Shan, J and Xiao, W and Liu, J and Peng, Y and Zhu, Y},
title = {Phoxim sublethal effect induces vitellogenin mediated reproductive enhancement and alters microbial symbiosis across generations in Hylyphantes graminicola.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70627},
pmid = {41708505},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {2023M731035//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; 2024AFB477//Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province/ ; 32400360//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2025K009//the Opening Project of Hubei Key Laboratory of Resource Utilizition and Quality Control of Characteristic Crops/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Phoxim, a widely used organophosphate insecticide, poses potential risks to non-target natural enemies. Hylyphantes graminicola is a dominant predatory spider in agroecosystems, yet the sublethal effects and transgenerational impacts remain poorly characterized. This study aimed to systematically evaluate the physiological, molecular, and microbial changes in H. graminicola induced by low lethal concentration of phoxim exposure across two successive generations.

RESULTS: Laboratory bioassays determined the LC30 of phoxim to be 9.442 mg/L. Exposure at this concentration significantly reduced female longevity but increased fecundity in both F0 and F1 generations, suggesting a potential hormetic effect. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that reproduction-related genes were significantly upregulated in the F0 generation, whereas detoxification genes were markedly expressed in the F1 generation. Functional validation through RNAi confirmed that vitellogenin (Vg) and cytochrome P450 (CYP2J1) are crucial in reproduction and detoxification, respectively. Furthermore, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was also found to be involved in regulatory phoxim exposure. Moreover, microbiome profiling demonstrated substantial shifts across generations, including decreased Wolbachia and increased Candidatus_Cardinium abundance, which may be related to the observed increase in fecundity. The results showed that a low lethal concentration of phoxim exposure can trigger complex physiological and microbial changes across generations.

CONCLUSION: These findings underscore the necessity of optimizing insecticide application intervals within Integrated Pest Management (IPM) frameworks to preserve biological control provided by beneficial arthropods. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41708473,
year = {2026},
author = {Liss, MA and White, JR and Doris, M and Lai, Z and Johnson-Pais, TL and Leach, RJ and Goros, M and Gelfond, J and Wickes, B},
title = {Gut Microbiome as a Lifestyle Risk Factor Associated with Prostate Cancer.},
journal = {European urology focus},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.euf.2026.01.001},
pmid = {41708473},
issn = {2405-4569},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Most prostate cancer prevention strategies suggest lifestyle modifications, which lack personalization. Gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as an influencing factor in nongastrointestinal cancers, including prostate cancer. The use of gut microbiome as a lifestyle biomarker could help identify individuals with lifestyle more prone to prostate cancer and allow for modification. We aimed to develop a gut microbiome-based biomarker derived from patients undergoing prostate cancer screening.

METHODS: We assessed whether the future cancer risk can be evaluated based on a microbiome risk analysis. After extracting DNA, sequencing, and performing a bioinformatics analysis, we identified 39 unique microbial genera of importance. We utilized an artificial intelligence model to calculate their presence, abundance, and weighted significance, generating a microbiome score (Prostate Cancer Risk Insight using Microbiome UnderStanding [PRIMUS]) that ranges from 0 to 1.

KEY FINDINGS AND LIMITATIONS: Men with an increasing PRIMUS signature showed a sequential increase in prostate cancer risk. The prostate cancer risk persisted after a median follow-up of 4.5 yr. As a risk-assessment tool, the microbiome score compared favorably with prostate cancer risk calculators. Study limitations include the use of two patient groups to diversify the population for both a screening and a prebiopsy scenario; however, the cohorts used different collection methods, including stool, rectal swabs, and glove tip samples, but the same DNA isolation and sequencing. We relied on the longitudinal approach to help reduce these initial differences.

The gut microbiome may serve as a lifestyle risk factor for prostate cancer, but it is not intended to guide biopsy decisions. The implications of this study hinge on the potential for modifiability of the microbiome that could be tested in future clinical trials on prostate cancer risk reduction.},
}

@article {pmid41708401,
year = {2026},
author = {Feyera, T and Johannsen, JC and Langendijk, P and Vodolazska, D},
title = {Review: Colostrum production and intake- functional roles in piglet survival, future reproduction, and the challenge of genetic selection.},
journal = {Animal : an international journal of animal bioscience},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101773},
doi = {10.1016/j.animal.2026.101773},
pmid = {41708401},
issn = {1751-732X},
abstract = {This review explores the vital role of colostrum in neonatal piglet survival, growth, and development, emphasising the physiological, nutritional, and immunological functions of colostrum. It highlights the challenges posed by genetic selection for larger litters, which often outpace the sow's capacity to produce and deliver adequate colostrum to each piglet. Drawing on extensive experimental data and recent literature, the review examines factors influencing colostrum production and intake, the impact of maternal nutrition on colostrum production, and the long-term effects of colostrum intake on piglet health and reproductive performance. It appears that dietary interventions during late gestation and the transition period have limited impact on a sow's ability to produce colostrum, although targeted nutritional strategies show promise in enhancing piglets' intake of colostrum and colostrum compositions such as fat, amino acids, and immunoglobulins. Future research should integrate genome, transcriptome, metabolome, and microbiome data to develop machine learning models that predict piglet performance based on early colostrum intake, thereby enabling timely interventions to improve their growth and survival during lactation.},
}

@article {pmid41707838,
year = {2026},
author = {Benagiano, G and Pluchino, N and Archer, D and Stanczyk, FZ},
title = {ESTROBOLOME: IS THERE A MISSING LINK?.},
journal = {The Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106967},
doi = {10.1016/j.jsbmb.2026.106967},
pmid = {41707838},
issn = {1879-1220},
abstract = {Estrogens play an important role throughout a woman's life; therefore, disrupting their physiological production will alter hormonal balance with consequences for estrogen-related conditions, such as endometriosis and adenomyosis. The gut microbiome (GM) plays a critical role in regulating systemic estrogen concentrations, since a number of microorganisms present in the GM possess the enzyme β-glucuronidase (β-GLC), a key factor in regulating host estrogen metabolism. Although most studies have focused on the conversion of estrogen glucuronides to active estrogens by β-GLC in gut bacteria, it is known that the GM also contains steroid sulfatases (STS), which are able to convert inactive sulfated estrogens to active ones. This is especially important because estrone (E1) sulfate (E1S) is quantitatively the most important estrogen in the human and can be readily converted to E1 and estradiol (E2). It has been shown that estrogen sulfates are present in bile and can therefore reach the intestines, raising the possibility of biologically active E1 and E2 formation in the intestine by bacterial enzyme transformation. Everything depends on the presence of sulfatases in the GM, and in this respect, STS have been found in a variety of microbial species. This means that sulfatases are poised to reactivate estrogens, which are then capable of undergoing enterohepatic recirculation and exerting systemic effects throughout the body. Given that estrogen sulfates represent the largest component of circulating estrogens that are secreted by the liver into the intestines via the bile, the role of gut microbial sulfatases may be superior to that of β-GLC.},
}

@article {pmid41707830,
year = {2026},
author = {Yuan, C and Zhao, Y and Huang, J and Fan, G and He, Z and Hu, X and Fu, Y and Lu, W},
title = {Integrated microbiome and metabolome unveiled the effect of carbonate buffer mixture alleviating subacute rumen acidosis - Mediated endometritis in dairy goats.},
journal = {Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)},
volume = {316},
number = {},
pages = {106601},
doi = {10.1016/j.tvjl.2026.106601},
pmid = {41707830},
issn = {1532-2971},
abstract = {Subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) is a prevalent metabolic disorder in ruminants, often associated with systemic inflammatory responses triggered by elevated levels of lipopolysaccharides (LPS). This study aimed to evaluate whether a carbonate buffer mixture (CBM) could alleviate SARA-induced endometritis in dairy goats by modulating the microbiota and metabolic profiles. A total of 30 healthy lactating dairy goats with similar body weight were selected for the experiment. Inflammatory markers were assessed in both uterine tissue and serum. The microbial communities in the rumen and uterus were characterized using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, while alterations in serum metabolites were analyzed via untargeted metabolomics. The results demonstrated that CBM supplementation effectively reversed SARA induced by a high-concentrate diet, reduced neutrophil infiltration, LPS levels, and inflammatory cytokine concentrations in the endometrium, and enhanced the expression of tight junction proteins in uterine tissue. Additionally, CBM mitigated SARA-induced dysbiosis of the uterine microbiota by restoring the relative abundance of key bacterial taxa, including Lachnospiraceae, Prevotella, and Ruminococcus, while also modulating rumen bacterial populations such as Stenotrophomonas, Aerococcus, and Acinetobacter. Metabolomic profiling revealed that SARA significantly increased serum concentrations of creatinine, L-methionine, and L-tyrosine, while decreasing levels of tryptamine, gabapentin, and sphinganine. These findings suggest that CBM may restore rumen pH and microbial balance in SARA-affected goats, thereby influencing systemic metabolite profiles, promoting uterine microbiota homeostasis, reducing endometrial injury, and ultimately alleviating endometritis. Collectively, this study highlights a potential link between the ruminal microenvironment and uterine health, and provides new insights into the therapeutic role of CBM in managing SARA-induced endometritis.},
}

@article {pmid41707761,
year = {2026},
author = {Maki, KA and Barb, JJ and Xu, S and Papneja, S and Alkhatib, J and Butera, G and Wallen, GR},
title = {From Alpha Diversity to Zeitgebers: Functional Implications and Potential Mechanisms Linking the Gut Microbiome to Sleep and Circadian Disruption (Part II).},
journal = {Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106609},
doi = {10.1016/j.neubiorev.2026.106609},
pmid = {41707761},
issn = {1873-7528},
abstract = {The bidirectional relationship between sleep physiology and the gut microbiome is mediated by overlapping neuroendocrine, immune, and metabolic pathways, though mechanistic evidence, particularly in humans, remains limited. This scoping review, the second in a two-part series, synthesizes preclinical and translational research examining not only gut microbial composition but also biomarkers reflecting host metabolic or functional responses to sleep and circadian disruption. We reviewed 74 preclinical rodent studies and 65 human studies that assessed sleep, gut microbiome outcomes, and at least one biomarker related to hormones, metabolites, neurotransmitters, or inflammation. Across studies, consistent links emerged between sleep and circadian disruption and changes in host homeostasis through microbiome-mediated mechanisms. These include activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, altered bile acid metabolism, inflammation-related microbial shifts, and disrupted tryptophan pathways. Together, these findings suggest that altered sleep influences metabolic and immune function via gut microbial signaling pathways. We highlight directions for future mechanistic research, particularly in translational models, to clarify causal pathways and support microbiome-informed strategies for mitigating the health consequences of sleep and circadian disruption.},
}

@article {pmid41707760,
year = {2026},
author = {Maki, KA and Barb, JJ and Alkhatib, J and Butera, G and Wallen, GR},
title = {From Alpha Diversity to Zeitgebers: Bacterial Gut Microbiome Associations with Sleep and Circadian Disruption (Part I).},
journal = {Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106578},
doi = {10.1016/j.neubiorev.2026.106578},
pmid = {41707760},
issn = {1873-7528},
abstract = {Sleep is a vital behavioral state influencing multiple body systems, including the gut-brain axis, which involves bidirectional communication between the brain and gastrointestinal system. This scoping review examines and provides a comprehensive overview of literature examining the relationship between sleep and the gut microbiome to identify literature gaps. Seventy-four pre-clinical rodent studies and 65 human translational studies reporting direct sleep and gut microbiome associations were synthesized. We found variable alpha diversity responses to sleep pathology, with decreased alpha diversity more consistent in longer sleep disruption periods. Preclinical studies showed variable phylum-level responses, while in humans, sleep disruption was linked to decreased Bacillota and circadian disruption to increased Bacillota. Unhealthy sleep patterns were commonly associated with reduced levels of beneficial genera such as Faecalibacterium and Lactobacillus, and increased Clostridium, though findings were not consistent across all studies. Recommendations are made to ensure rigorous, reproducible research in this field. The potential for gut microbiome modulation as a therapeutic target is highlighted, with suggested future research directions for preventing sleep disruption and pathology.},
}

@article {pmid41707756,
year = {2026},
author = {Lou, S and Li, W and Wang, G and Qian, H and Zhou, J},
title = {Microbiome-Gut-Liver Axis in Chronic Inflammation and Cancer Immunotherapy: Multi-omics Insights and a Translational Roadmap Toward Personalized Medicine.},
journal = {Critical reviews in oncology/hematology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105217},
doi = {10.1016/j.critrevonc.2026.105217},
pmid = {41707756},
issn = {1879-0461},
abstract = {Gut-liver axis is critical to integrate microbial, metabolic, and immune signaling networks to control hepatic homeostasis and carcinogenesis. Gut microbial balance disruption (dysbiosis) stimulates chronic inflammation, metabolic disorders, and transition from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Latest evidence points to the gut and intratumoral microbiota's roles in shaping immune regulation and responsiveness to immunotherapy against cancer. This review encapsulates the latest evidence on the microbiome-gut-liver axis in chronic liver disease and cancer, highlighting multi-omics evidence, mechanisms of immune modulation, and translational avenues to microbiome-informed precision medicine in HCC. Comprehensive literature search on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase (until September 2025) focused on the gut-liver axis, microbiome, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and multi-omics integration. Only mechanistically and translationally relevant peer-reviewed studies were included. Dysbiosis disrupts the permeability of the intestines and metabolism of bile acids and affects immune signaling to induce hepatic inflammation and fibrogenesis. Multi-omic studies identify key microbial metabolites, short-chain fatty acids, secondary bile acids, and tryptophan derivatives to govern the function of T-cell and responsiveness to checkpoint. Clinical research demonstrates that increased abundance of taxa like Akkermansia muciniphila, Bifidobacterium longum, and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii improves ICI efficacy but antibiotic exposure decreases therapeutic efficacy. Tumor-residing microbiomes further determine immune infiltration and risk of recurrence. Multi-omic and computational integration of gut and tumor microbiome data provides mechanistic insight to microbial-informed immunotherapy. Standardization, regulatory convergence, and ethical guidelines are critical to translate microbiome therapeutics, namely fecal microbiota transplantation, engineered probiotics, and metabolite-directed interventions to safe and individualized strategies to treat liver cancer.},
}

@article {pmid41707749,
year = {2026},
author = {Bantavi, V and Gloeck, L and Leven, P and Zafeiropoulou, K and Welting, O and Sengül, H and Efferz, P and Schneiker, B and McCulloch, TR and Wilhelm, C and Blaess, S and Fuss, A and Derikx, JPM and Sovran, B and de Jonge, WJ and Wehner, S and , },
title = {Tryptophan indole metabolites reduce anastomotic leakage through aryl hydrocarbon receptor-driven interleukin-22 production.},
journal = {Cellular and molecular gastroenterology and hepatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101756},
doi = {10.1016/j.jcmgh.2026.101756},
pmid = {41707749},
issn = {2352-345X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer often requires surgical resection of the tumor and an anastomosis. Anastomotic leakage (AL) occurs in 2.8-30% of patients which increases postoperative morbidity and complications. The preoperative microbiome composition is implicated in AL. Recent studies have shown that microbial tryptophan (Trp) metabolism into aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) indole-derivatives contributes to intestinal tissue healing. Here, we addressed the role of Trp and its metabolites in AL in a CRC patient cohort and a colon-anastomosis mouse model.

METHODS: Targeted quantitative metabolomics was performed in preoperative fecal samples from patients with CRC recruited in the REVEAL cohort (n = 388), including 19 AL cases. Anastomotic Healing (AH) was tested in a mouse model using wildtype, AhR[-/-], Villin[Cre]Ahr[fl/fl], and IL-22 drug-targeting to evaluate the role of AhR and IL-22 in AL.

RESULTS: Fifty-two of the 388 patients with available preoperative fecal samples were matched for AH/AL occurrence (AL, n = 19; AH, n = 33). Amongst Trp metabolites, indole-3-acetic acid was significantly reduced in AL compared to matched AH male patients. AhR[-/-] mice displayed more severe AL, reduced IL-22 expression, and a marked loss of IL-22-expressing type 3 ILCs compared to wildtype mice. Neutralizing IL-22 antibody augmented AL in wildtype mice, while IL-22Fc application ameliorated AL in AhR[-/-] mice. AhR agonism failed to rescue healing under IL-22 deficiency. Furthermore, low-Trp diet-fed wildtype mice exhibited reduced fecal concentration of AhR agonists and, AhR-agonist producing bacteria, and augmented AL. This phenotype was prevented by dietary supplementation with the AhR agonist indole-3-carbinol.

CONCLUSION: Stimulation of the AhR/IL-22 by synthetic agonists or dietary-derived Trp-metabolites can prevent AL.},
}

@article {pmid41707708,
year = {2026},
author = {Lyons, CE and Smith, AD and Schwartzman, G and Hickman, A and Grant-Kels, JM},
title = {Managing Skin Diseases that Flare During Pregnancy and in the Postpartum period: Part 1-Classification, Epidemiology & Pathogenesis.},
journal = {Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jaad.2026.01.089},
pmid = {41707708},
issn = {1097-6787},
abstract = {Pregnancy induces immunologic, hormonal, vascular, neurogenic and skin barrier changes that may exacerbate inflammatory dermatoses as atopic dermatitis (AD), and psoriasis. Part I of this CME reviews pregnancy-induced shifts in immunity, hormones, vascular dynamics and barrier function that can change the course of common dermatoses, including AD, psoriasis, acne, melasma, hidradenitisi suppurativa, and other conditions. Additionally, in Part II we present updated safety and pharmacokinetic data that supports the judicious use of topical, systemic and procedural therapies (eg, phototherapy, biologics) through gestation and lactation, replacing reliance solely on FDA categories. We include practical treatment options to enhance the balancing of maternal disease control with fetal and neonatal safety.},
}

@article {pmid41707656,
year = {2026},
author = {Sarwal, R and Tarca, V and Dubin, CA and Kalavros, N and Bhatti, G and Bhattacharya, S and Butte, A and Romero, R and Stolovitzky, G and Oskotsky, TT and Tarca, AL and Sirota, M},
title = {Benchmarking large language models for predictive modeling in biomedical research with a focus on reproductive health.},
journal = {Cell reports. Medicine},
volume = {7},
number = {2},
pages = {102594},
doi = {10.1016/j.xcrm.2026.102594},
pmid = {41707656},
issn = {2666-3791},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Biomedical Research/methods ; *Reproductive Health ; *Benchmarking ; Premature Birth/genetics ; Pregnancy ; Gestational Age ; DNA Methylation ; Large Language Models ; },
abstract = {Large language models (LLMs) are increasingly used for code generation and data analysis. This study assesses LLM performance across four predictive tasks from three DREAM challenges: gestational age regression from transcriptomics and DNA methylation and classification of preterm birth and early preterm birth from microbiome data. We prompt LLMs with task descriptions, data locations, and target outcomes and then run LLM-generated code to fit prediction models and determine accuracy on test sets. Among the eight LLMs tested, o3-mini-high, 4o, DeepseekR1, and Gemini 2.0 can complete at least one task. R code generation is more successful (14/16) than Python (7/16). OpenAI's o3-mini-high outperforms others, completing 7/8 tasks. Test set performance of the top LLM-generated models matches or exceeds the median-participating team for all four tasks and surpasses the top-performing team for one task (p = 0.02). These findings underscore the potential of LLMs to democratize predictive modeling in omics and increase research output.},
}

Humans
Female
*Biomedical Research/methods
*Reproductive Health
*Benchmarking
Premature Birth/genetics
Pregnancy
Gestational Age
DNA Methylation
Large Language Models

@article {pmid41707638,
year = {2026},
author = {Rakhshandeh, M and Khanjani, M},
title = {The First Report of Enterobacter Endosymbionts in the Dried Fruit Mite (Carpoglyphus lactis L.) (Acari, Acarida) Reared on Apricots in the Laboratory.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology reports},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {e70294},
doi = {10.1111/1758-2229.70294},
pmid = {41707638},
issn = {1758-2229},
mesh = {Animals ; *Symbiosis ; *Enterobacter/isolation & purification/genetics/classification/physiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Phylogeny ; *Acaridae/microbiology ; *Prunus armeniaca/parasitology ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Carpoglyphus lactis (Linnaeus), a member of the family Carpoglyphidae, is recognised both as a common storage mite and a significant source of indoor allergens. Despite extensive studies on its biology and distribution, little is known about its associated microbiome. In this study, for the first time, we investigated the bacterial symbionts of C. lactis reared under sterile laboratory conditions on dried apricots. Following surface sterilisation, bacterial isolates were cultured and identified through biochemical tests and molecular analyses targeting the 16S rRNA and gapA genes. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that the isolated strains shared over 98% similarity with Enterobacter hormaechei and clustered specifically within the E. hormaechei subsp. xiangfangensis clade. These findings confirm the presence of Enterobacter species as endosymbionts in C. lactis for the first time. The symbiotic relationship may contribute to host stress tolerance, nutritional efficiency and modulation of allergenic properties. This discovery opens new avenues for exploring mite-microbe interactions and developing innovative strategies for biological control and allergy mitigation.},
}

Animals
*Symbiosis
*Enterobacter/isolation & purification/genetics/classification/physiology
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Phylogeny
*Acaridae/microbiology
*Prunus armeniaca/parasitology
DNA, Bacterial/genetics/chemistry

@article {pmid41707590,
year = {2026},
author = {He, X and Liao, Z and Cai, X and Lin, J and Zhang, Y and Zeng, W and Feng, L and Mei, L and Liu, C},
title = {The oral-immune axis: neutrophil extracellular traps mediate the link between periodontitis and autoimmune diseases.},
journal = {International immunopharmacology},
volume = {174},
number = {},
pages = {116363},
doi = {10.1016/j.intimp.2026.116363},
pmid = {41707590},
issn = {1878-1705},
abstract = {Epidemiological and clinical evidence supports a strong association between periodontitis and autoimmune diseases. This review systematically elucidates the pivotal role of the "oral-immune axis" in this relationship, focusing on neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) as key mediators. Periodontal pathogens can compromise the gingival epithelial barrier, induce excessive NETs formation within the periodontium, facilitate systemic dissemination of pathogens, and promote their ectopic spread to organs such as the joints, pancreas, and kidneys. These processes, in turn, may activate neutrophils to release additional NETs. NETs can aggravate the pathology of various autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and type 1 diabetes mellitus, through mechanisms such as exposure of autoantigens, amplification of inflammatory cascades, and activation of adaptive immune responses. This article further discusses the reverse regulatory role of the oral-immune axis and compares the similarities and differences in NETs in periodontitis and autoimmune diseases. Reinforcing basic periodontal therapy may effectively reduce systemic inflammation and NETs levels, and therapeutic strategies targeting NETs formation, clearance, or function demonstrate potential in interdisciplinary disease management. Altogether, this review provides a novel perspective on the interplay between the oral microbiome and systemic immune diseases, highlighting its substantial translational medical implications.},
}

@article {pmid41707585,
year = {2026},
author = {Akoh-Arrey, T and Brooks, JF},
title = {Antimicrobial peptides and proteins as rheostats of intestinal homeostasis and immunity.},
journal = {Current opinion in immunology},
volume = {99},
number = {},
pages = {102738},
doi = {10.1016/j.coi.2026.102738},
pmid = {41707585},
issn = {1879-0372},
abstract = {Antimicrobial peptides and proteins (AMPs) function as molecular rheostats of host-microbe interactions and cell-intrinsic defense. Rather than being binary effectors, they act along a continuum. At basal levels, AMPs maintain harmony with the commensal members of the microbiome, and upon pathogen encounter, they induce levels that thwart bacterial invasion and dissemination. This duality arises from the mechanistic versatility and layered regulation by microbial, cytokine, and circadian cues. Importantly, this review is not intended to be a detailed catalog of all antimicrobial proteins, but rather a conceptual framework highlighting representative mechanisms that illustrate how AMPs function as adjustable regulators of intestinal homeostasis. Viewing AMPs as adjustable regulators of barrier integrity, rather than static effectors, reframes innate immunity as a dynamic system that balances microbial tolerance with host defense.},
}

@article {pmid41707528,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Ding, C and Zheng, Z and Liu, W and Shi, Y},
title = {The spatial distribution of heavy metal contamination, microbial communities, and resistance genes in agricultural soil near a manganese mine in China.},
journal = {Ecotoxicology and environmental safety},
volume = {311},
number = {},
pages = {119865},
doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2026.119865},
pmid = {41707528},
issn = {1090-2414},
abstract = {The large-scale manganese mining causes severe heavy metal contamination, posing a significant potential risk to human health. Songtao County is one of the most important manganese mining areas in China, where the disorderly mining and extensive production has inevitably caused serious pollution. However, it's still unclear how Mn production activities affect agricultural soils located relatively far from the mining sites. Therefore, we investigated the horizontal and vertical distribution of heavy metal contamination, microbial communities, and resistance genes in the agricultural soils located at Songtao County. Metagenomic sequencing revealed that Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Rokubacteria, Chloroflexi, and Actinobacteria were the most abundant phyla. The diversity and composition of the bacterial communities varied significantly between different sampling sites and depths. Redundancy and Spearman correlation analysis indicated that total nitrogen, total organic carbon, total K, and Mn were the primary environmental factors determining the distribution of bacterial communities. The bacterial communities in Wuluo were influenced by Hg, Zn, Cu, Ni, and As, whereas in Mushu, it was primarily affected by Mn levels. A large account of heavy metal resistance genes, manganese resistance genes, and antibiotics resistance genes were identified. The relative abundances and correlation analysis of these resistance genes exhibited observed correlations based on the potential co-selection mechanisms, suggesting that Mn and heavy metals, as well as antibiotics, might shape the microbiome and resistome in this agricultural soil. These findings provide an insight for the surveillance, maintenance, and remediation of the agricultural soil and offer theoretical evidence for improving the agricultural soil environment.},
}

@article {pmid41707491,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Z and Chen, S and Su, S and Wang, Y and Song, Y and Wu, H and Yi, X and Xiao, Z and Qin, Q},
title = {The impact of polystyrene nanoplastics on the chicken gut and liver: Based on transcriptomics and microbiomics.},
journal = {Poultry science},
volume = {105},
number = {5},
pages = {106574},
doi = {10.1016/j.psj.2026.106574},
pmid = {41707491},
issn = {1525-3171},
abstract = {Nanoplastics, an emerging environmental pollutant, pose potential hazards to organisms. The impact of nanoplastics on poultry health, a crucial protein source for humans, has raised considerable concern. This study evaluated the multidimensional toxic effects of nanoplastic exposure on 240 Sanhuang chickens over a 21-day oral administration period followed by a 21-day recovery period. While nanoplastics did not affect average daily gain and average daily feed intake, they induced cardiac index elevation, indicating myocardial compensatory hypertrophy, with partial functional recovery post-exposure. Serum analysis revealed that reduced antioxidant enzyme activities and increased lipid peroxidation, and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels rose during exposure. Oxidative stress and inflammatory responses were alleviated, but IgG levels significantly declined in recovery. Transcriptome sequencing showed disrupted mitochondrial complex I function and inhibited cholesterol synthesis through abnormal expression of key genes, exacerbating cytotoxicity. Mechanistic studies confirmed toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/ nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway activation driving hepatic/jejunal inflammation, alongside elevated pro-apoptotic Bax/Caspase-3, reduced anti-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma-2, and suppressed autophagy and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. Post-exposure, the TLR4/NF-κB pathway remained activated, and autophagy and the Nrf2 pathway remained inhibited. Intestinal barrier function was impaired via downregulated tight junction proteins, increasing jejunal permeability. Jejunal villi height was abnormally elevated in the low-dose group during exposure, which decreased in the villus height / crypt depth ratio during recovery. Microbiome analysis revealed increased Proteobacteria/Escherichia-Shigella abundance during exposure and reduced beneficial bacteria. Harmful bacteria such as Flavobacteriaceae_uncultured remained highly abundant post-exposure. This study systematically demonstrates that NPs compromise avian health via two primary mechanisms: inducing inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy inhibition in the liver and jejunum; disrupting mitochondrial respiration in the liver and causing intestinal barrier dysfunction accompanied by dysbiosis. These findings offer critical evidence for evaluating the potential risks of environmental nano-pollutants in livestock and poultry industry.},
}

@article {pmid41707423,
year = {2026},
author = {Francés, Á and López, M and González-Raurich, M and Cobo-Díaz, JF and Prieto, M and Allende, A and Gil, MI and Truchado, P and Alvarez-Ordóñez, A and Oliveira, M},
title = {Characterization of microbial diversity, chemical hazards and antimicrobial resistant bacteria in wash water from a fresh-cut vegetable processing plant.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {452},
number = {},
pages = {111667},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2026.111667},
pmid = {41707423},
issn = {1879-3460},
abstract = {This study investigated the quality of process wash water (PWW) in an industrial fresh-cut produce facility. Traditional microbiological and physico-chemical parameters, such as aerobic mesophilic counts, coliforms, molds and yeasts, pH, free chlorine, oxidation-reduction potential, and organic matter indicators, were monitored to contextualize water quality dynamics across the workday. Additionally, untargeted analyses were performed to characterize the microbiome and resistome and identify chemical hazards in PWW, highlighting the occurrence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and the presence of some pesticides at low levels, including chlorantraniliprole, cyprodinil, fludioxonil, and propyzamide, in a real-world processing environment. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests and whole genome sequencing of twelve coliform isolates revealed multidrug-resistant strains, including Enterobacter mori, Enterobacter ludwigii, and Klebsiella oxytoca, carrying resistance genes such as oqxB, fosA, and blaACT-12, as well as the plasmid-borne blaOXY-2-2. Metagenome analyses revealed a microbial community dominated by the genus Pseudomonas, together with high abundance of Rheinheimera mangrovi and Pantoea agglomerans. Moreover, resistome analysis disclosed that 83% of detected antimicrobial resistance genes were associated with beta-lactam resistance. Additionally, the efficacy of chlorine against one K. oxytoca isolate obtained from PWW using a dynamic system simulating a produce washing operation confirmed that maintaining pH at 6.5 and stable free chlorine levels of 6 mg/L was sufficient for complete inactivation. These findings demonstrate the importance of implementing proper wash water management practices in fresh produce processing, including preventing excessive organic matter accumulation through adequate water replenishment and maintaining chemical parameters within the validated operational range, supported by systematic verification and monitoring.},
}

@article {pmid41707393,
year = {2026},
author = {Tang, H and Du, S and Tan, Y and Su, W and Niu, Z and Sun, J and Shao, W and Fang, X and Tang, Z and Zhang, D and Chen, Z and Zhang, Z and Shao, J and Norback, D and Sun, Y and Fu, X and Lv, L and Zhao, Z},
title = {The role of the nasal microbiome in linking ozone pollution to allergic rhinitis in children.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {505},
number = {},
pages = {141475},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141475},
pmid = {41707393},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Ambient ozone (O3) links to childhood allergic rhinitis (AR), but the nasal microbiome's role remains unclear. We did a case-control study in Shanghai (176 AR children, 114 controls). AR children had higher 12-month O3 (OR=1.21, 95 %CI:1.11-1.29 per 10 μg/m[3]) and reduced nasal microbial α-diversity (P < 0.05). Co-occurrence network analysis showed the nasal microbial community in AR children had reduced connectivity and lost keystone taxa compared to controls. O3 was negatively correlated with α-diversity (P < 0.05) which indices mediated annual (9.15 %, 95 %CI:3.17-18.45 %) and warm-season (14.21 %, 95 %CI:5.27-27.84 %) O3-AR links; predicted microbial functional pathways in particular steroid hormone biosynthesis (8.77 % for annual O3, 18.49 % for warm-season O3) and limonene/pinene degradation (7.46 % for warm-season O3) (P < 0.05) mediated the O3-AR link too. Our findings highlighted the nasal microbiome's potential role in mediating the link between O3 exposure and childhood AR. This fills gaps in the mechanism on ambient O3 and childhood AR in perspective of the mediation by nasal microbiome and its functional pathways and offers actionable insights for O3 - targeted environmental management and precise pediatric health protection.},
}

@article {pmid41707391,
year = {2026},
author = {Werid, GM and Hemmatzadeh, F and Batterham, T and Miller, D and Edwards, R and Trott, DJ and Petrovski, K},
title = {Metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analyses reveal microbial dysbiosis and bacteria-virus interactions in the lungs of Australian feedlot cattle with bovine respiratory disease.},
journal = {Veterinary microbiology},
volume = {315},
number = {},
pages = {110926},
doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2026.110926},
pmid = {41707391},
issn = {1873-2542},
abstract = {Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) remains the leading cause of feedlot cattle morbidity and mortality. Despite its polymicrobial aetiology, microbial population structure and inter-pathogen dynamics within the lungs of cattle with BRD remain poorly understood. To characterise the lung microbiome and virome of feedlot cattle with (n = 23) and without BRD (n = 9), we applied RNA-sequencing and full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing to bovine lung tissue samples collected at post-mortem. Host-depleted RNA-seq reads were assembled and profiled, bacterial communities were classified, and diversity, differential abundance, bacteria-virus correlations, co-occurrence networks, and phage-host links analysed. Lung samples from BRD- cattle revealed pathogen-dominated communities with reduced within-sample diversity. Metamycoplasmataceae/Mycoplasmataceae, and Pasteurellaceae accounted for approximately 65.3 % of the bacterial population in samples from cattle with BRD, compared to approximately 11.3 % in lung samples from non-BRD cattle. At the species level, a significantly increased abundance of Pasteurella multocida was observed in BRD cattle. The virome was bacteriophage-dominated in both groups (led by Peduoviridae) but revealed distinct BRD-associated changes. Strong correlation between bacterial genomic abundance and transcriptional activity was observed in cattle with BRD, particularly for Mycoplasmopsis bovis, P. multocida, and Trueperella pyogenes. Network analyses consistently identified M. bovis, P. multocida, and Histophilus somni as highly connected hubs, whereas phages predicted to infect BRD-associated bacteria and Pestivirus bovis were more prevalent and/or abundant in lung samples from BRD cattle. Overall, BRD is characterised by a shift to low-diversity, pathogen-centred bacterial communities within a phage-rich virome that includes enrichment of bacterial pathogen-associated phages. These findings provide a basis for microbiome-informed, multi-pathogen diagnostics and help prioritise surveillance and control strategies that can be included into feedlot BRD management programmes to reduce antimicrobial use, animal losses, and economic impacts.},
}

@article {pmid41707342,
year = {2026},
author = {Marino, AF and Marino, FE},
title = {Those ancient teeth and the endurance predator: Dentition and human heat adaptation.},
journal = {Journal of thermal biology},
volume = {136},
number = {},
pages = {104421},
doi = {10.1016/j.jtherbio.2026.104421},
pmid = {41707342},
issn = {0306-4565},
abstract = {Human thermoregulation is characterised by the ability to sustain endurance activities in hot environments through sweating and efficient heat dissipation. Combined with habitual bipedality, these adaptations enabled persistence hunting, where prey animals, constrained by panting, succumbed to hyperthermia during prolonged pursuit. This strategy offered early Homo access to calorie-dense animal foods, but it also imposed the critical requirement to consume prey rapidly under thermally stressful conditions. We argue that dentition was a key, though often overlooked, enabler of this thermoregulatory foraging niche. Fossil evidence demonstrates reductions in canine size, the disappearance of the honing complex, and modifications to molars and enamel thickness that enhanced versatility and durability in food processing. Teeth acted in concert with emerging tool use to minimise mastication time, reduce heat production, and accelerate nutrient intake. Alongside changes in gut morphology and microbiome composition, dentition formed part of an integrated system that linked diet, thermoregulation, and survival. Viewed in this light, dental evolution was not merely a dietary adaptation but a central contributor to Homo's ecological success as an endurance-adapted omnivore. We frame our hypothesis on heat and handling time: in hot-dry contexts, versatile human dentition together with stone tools and cooperation helped compress the post-kill processing, reducing on-site heat and dehydration; we avoid teleological 'optimization' and emphasize mosaic, trade-off responses.},
}

@article {pmid41707316,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, J and Meng, X and Zhang, H and Sun, W and Yang, L and Li, S},
title = {Mobile genetic elements drive the assembly of high-risk resistance and virulence configurations at the riverine water-sediment interface.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {296},
number = {},
pages = {124055},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2026.124055},
pmid = {41707316},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Riverine ecosystems are major conduits and repositories for microplastics, heavy metals and antibiotics yet how these co-occurring stressors jointly shape resistance and virulence risks across water and sediments remains unclear. Here we combined shotgun metagenomics with pollutant profiling along a representative rural-to-urban gradient during the dry season to resolve the distribution, mobility and drivers of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), metal resistance genes (MRGs), virulence factors (VFs) and mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in paired surface waters and surficial sediments. Bacterial communities were dominated by Pseudomonadota and Actinomycetota while fungal communities were dominated by Ascomycota and Uroviricota respectively with stronger land-use effects observed in water than in sediments. Across all samples we detected 36 ARG classes and 1589 subtypes where multidrug and efflux or target alteration mechanisms predominated. Furthermore ARG richness, abundance and diversity increased from rural to urban reaches in both media. MGEs were dominated by transposases where ARG-MGE co-localization on 1474 contigs revealed dense transposase-centered networks in urban sediments that linked multidrug, peptide, glycopeptide and tetracycline resistance. Crucially we identified contigs co-harboring ARGs, MRGs, and VFs as multi-trait risk gene carriers. Urban reaches hosted diverse carrier lineages whereas rural reaches were dominated by the high abundance of specific carriers. SourceTracker and partial least squares path modeling together indicated that rural sediments are the principal upstream sources of microbes and risk genes while MGEs in urban sediments translate multi-pollutant stress into enlarged and more mobile risk gene pools. These findings highlight the need to jointly manage agricultural inputs and urban sediments under multi-stressor conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41707315,
year = {2026},
author = {Gaber, M and Moulden, LM and Wilson, AS and Payne, V and Holmes, J and Neary, K and Peoples, A and Duet, ML and Katz, AJ and Vidi, PA and Cook, KL},
title = {Microbe-associated molecular patterns differentially mediate carcinogenic alterations of the breast tissue in the context of obesity.},
journal = {Neoplasia (New York, N.Y.)},
volume = {73},
number = {},
pages = {101284},
doi = {10.1016/j.neo.2026.101284},
pmid = {41707315},
issn = {1476-5586},
abstract = {Obesity is a risk factor for breast cancer. Obesity alters the microbiome and microbiome perturbations are reported in breast cancer patients. Yet, the impact of obesity-mediated microbial shifts on breast cancer risk remains unclear. Here, we investigate the effect of microbial-associated molecular pattern (MAMP) signaling on genome instability and inflammation. We show in human samples that obesity chronically elevates breast tissue levels of two MAMPs: lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and flagellin. In contrast, obesity was not associated with chronic elevations in lipoteichoic acid (LTA). Injections of LPS and flagellin in mouse mammary glands (MG) were sufficient to induce DNA damage and inflammation. Moreover, DNA damage was reduced in MG of animals on a high-fat diet by knockdown of toll-like receptors for LPS and flagellin (TLR4 and TLR5), but not TLR2 (LTA receptor). Experiments with breast acini cultures demonstrated LPS and flagellin (but not LTA) induce DNA double-strand breaks via TLR and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Similarly, LPS and flagellin mediated nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway activation and increased expression of inflammatory cytokines. Analyses of non-cancerous breast tissue microbiome revealed an enrichment of Proteobacteria in obese women. Proteobacteria often contain LPS and many of these bacteria are flagellated. Tissue-resident Proteobacteria abundance correlated with breast tissue DNA damage. Our findings show that LPS and flagellin are systemic and local mediators of obesity-induced microbiome alterations, predisposing the breast to pre-malignant changes. These results underscore the importance of considering the tissue-resident microbiome as a biomarker of risk to improve primary prevention of breast cancer. Significance: Obesity differentially modulates non-cancerous breast tissue microbial-associated molecular pattern signaling, enriching LPS and flagellin, to promote oxidative stress and DNA damage.},
}

@article {pmid41707175,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, X and Deng, K and Zhu, G and Huang, W and Gong, G and Liu, H and Yang, T and Gui, Y and Li, W},
title = {Dynamics of soil microbiome throughout the cultivation life cycle of Phallus rubrovolvatus.},
journal = {Canadian journal of microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1139/cjm-2025-0279},
pmid = {41707175},
issn = {1480-3275},
abstract = {Phallus rubrovolvatus is a valuable edible fungus extensively cultivated in Guizhou Province, China. However, the changes in the soil microbiome throughout its growth cycle remain poorly understood. In this study, we collected 35 casing soil samples across five growth stages covering the entire 120-day cultivation cycle of P. rubrovolvatus and conducted metagenomic sequencing to examine alterations in soil microbial composition, diversity, key biomarkers, and functional potential. Our analyses revealed significant stage-dependent shifts in microbial community structure, with alpha diversity reaching its lowest at the primordium stage (Shannon of 5.12) and network complexity peaking at harvest stage (1.8-fold increase in connectivity). Through LEfSe analysis, we identified 37 stage-specific microbial biomarkers primarily affiliated with Actinomycetota and Acidobacteriota. Notably, Acidobacteriota biomarkers dominated at the primordium stage, while Nitrospirota enrichment characterized the harvest stage. Functional analyses revealed that membrane transport and energy metabolism pathways were enriched during early mycelial colonization, whereas secondary metabolite biosynthesis and signaling pathways became prominent during fruiting body maturation. Correlation analyses identified available nitrogen as the primary soil variable associated with microbial community composition. These findings provide foundational knowledge of microbiome dynamics during P. rubrovolvatus cultivation and suggest that microbiome-based management strategies may benefit from stage-specific interventions synchronized with fungal developmental transitions.},
}

@article {pmid41706615,
year = {2026},
author = {Hyoju, SK and Cira, K and McKinley, I and Faazal, R and Mailhiot, D and Ostdiek, A and Neumann, PA and Alverdy, JC},
title = {Feasibility and preliminary results of modeling a clinically meaningful anastomotic leak in pigs.},
journal = {International journal of surgery (London, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1097/JS9.0000000000004959},
pmid = {41706615},
issn = {1743-9159},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Animal models are essential for investigating the pathobiology of anastomotic leakage (AL). To be clinically meaningful, AL must occur despite a technically adequate anastomosis and reflect a phenotype relevant to surgical practice. This feasibility pilot study aimed to develop a clinically relevant porcine AL model by combining a Western diet (WD), segmental ischemia, perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (PAP), and luminal exposure to pathogenic bacteria under optimal surgical conditions.

METHODS: Twenty-one female domestic pigs were randomized into four groups. Group 1 received standard chow, PAP, and underwent a stapled colorectal anastomosis. Group 2 received WD, PAP, and perioperative luminal exposure to viable human and murine pathogens via colonoscopy. Group 3 received the same treatment with added ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Group 4 served as a negative control, receiving all exposures with autoclaved pathogens. Animals underwent a technically optimal stapled colorectal anastomosis. Healing was assessed clinically, endoscopically, and macroscopically on postoperative days 3 and 7.

RESULTS: Gross healing (P = 0.0027) and adhesion scores (P = 0.0067) differed significantly between groups, with the highest scores in pigs exposed to WD, I/R, and viable pathogens. These changes did not reach the threshold of clinically overt anastomotic failure (Clavien-Dindo grade III), and endoscopic scores showed no significant intergroup differences. A strong association was observed between gross healing and adhesion scores (r = 0.909).

CONCLUSION: While the model did not progress to clinically overt AL (Clavien-Dindo grade III), it reproducibly induced subclinical impairment of anastomotic healing under compounded perioperative stress. These findings support its feasibility and biological relevance for studying early determinants of anastomotic integrity prior to clinical failure.},
}

@article {pmid41706443,
year = {2026},
author = {Khanna, S},
title = {What potential do DNA polymerase IIIC (PolC) inhibitors hold for the treatment of clostridioides difficile infection?.},
journal = {Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/14656566.2026.2634960},
pmid = {41706443},
issn = {1744-7666},
}

@article {pmid41706330,
year = {2026},
author = {Kovacs, ED and Kovacs, MH},
title = {Agrochemical mixture combination, dose, and exposure time differently modulate soil microbiome phenotypes.},
journal = {Ecotoxicology (London, England)},
volume = {35},
number = {3},
pages = {59},
pmid = {41706330},
issn = {1573-3017},
support = {18PFE/30.12.2021//Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digitization through Program 1-Development of the national research and development system, Subprogram 1.2-Institutional performance projects that finance RDI excellence/ ; 18PFE/30.12.2021//Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digitization through Program 1-Development of the national research and development system, Subprogram 1.2-Institutional performance projects that finance RDI excellence/ ; Grant number 760104/23 May 2023, code CF 245/29, November 2022//European Union NextGeneration EU through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, Component 9. I8., Romanian Government, Ministry of the Innovation and Digitization through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) PNRR-III-C9-2022-I8/ ; Grant number 760104/23 May 2023, code CF 245/29, November 2022//European Union NextGeneration EU through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, Component 9. I8., Romanian Government, Ministry of the Innovation and Digitization through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) PNRR-III-C9-2022-I8/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41706260,
year = {2026},
author = {Matsumoto, M and Shiotani, A and Osawa, M and Handa, O and Matsumoto, H and Umegaki, E and Yonezawa, H and Osaki, T},
title = {Metagenomic analysis of the intragastric and oral microbiome associated with gastric carcinogenesis after Helicobacter pylori eradication.},
journal = {Gastric cancer : official journal of the International Gastric Cancer Association and the Japanese Gastric Cancer Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41706260},
issn = {1436-3305},
support = {Research Project Grant//Kawasaki Medical School/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41706019,
year = {2026},
author = {Rose, BD and Kreuch, D and Wu, T and Horowitz, M and Rayner, CK and Page, AJ and Miller, CL and Young, RL},
title = {Glycemic Impact of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners in Health and Type 2 Diabetes.},
journal = {Nutrition reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/nutrit/nuaf313},
pmid = {41706019},
issn = {1753-4887},
abstract = {Foods and beverages sweetened with non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) are increasingly common in modern diets and widely promoted as healthy alternatives to their sugar-sweetened counterparts, with attendant benefits for individuals with preclinical or clinical metabolic disease. Despite this position, the evidence base supporting the purported health benefits of NNSs is limited and equivocal, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes. This review discusses the metabolic effects of NNSs from the standpoint of epidemiological studies and focuses on evidence from the hitherto limited number of prospective clinical trials, as well as potential modes of interaction. Non-nutritive sweeteners are capable of binding to sweet taste receptors (STRs, a heterodimer of T1R2-T1R3) in a wide variety of tissues, including the tongue, pancreas, and small intestine. In cellular, tissue and preclinical models, the binding of NNSs to intestinal STRs triggers the release of the incretin hormones glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), which, in turn, evoke pancreatic insulin release. Sweet taste receptor activation also triggers release of the intestinotrophic peptide, glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2), which augments the expression and function of the primary apical glucose transporter in the intestine, sodium-glucose co-transporter-1 (SGLT-1). In addition, the NNSs saccharin and sucralose disrupt the composition of the gut microbiome in both pre-clinical and clinical settings in health, and do so in a manner that is individualized and causally related to glucose intolerance. Correspondingly, NNSs have the potential to impact metabolic outcomes directly via host-mediated pathways, as well as secondary to changes in the hosted microbiota. To date, most clinical trials have focused on the acute or subacute effects of NNSs on gut hormone release, glycemic control, and weight management. There is now broad recognition that longer-term, prospective randomized clinical trials are required to add mechanistic insight into how NNSs impact glycemic control in health and in type 2 diabetes.},
}

@article {pmid41705972,
year = {2026},
author = {Qiu, YZ and Yang, MT and Liu, Z and Chen, XY and Chen, JD and Huang, SY and Lan, QY and Hu, Y and Zhou, X and Wei, W and Wang, X and Ye, X and Zhu, HL},
title = {Impact of medium- and long-chain triacylglycerols and sn-2 palmitate on temperament development in term infants: potential role of gut Bifidobacterium.},
journal = {Food & function},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5fo03451e},
pmid = {41705972},
issn = {2042-650X},
abstract = {Background: Medium- and long-chain triacylglycerols (MLCTs) and sn-2 palmitate constitute 70-80% of human breast milk lipids. Our previous work showed that a formula supplemented with these structural lipids promoted adequate weight gain, but their effects on neuropsychological development and gut microbiome remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of supplementation with MLCTs and sn-2 palmitate on temperament development and the gut microbiome in term infants. Methods: This was a prospective, parallel, open-label controlled trial. Infants were divided into three groups according to their feeding patterns at the 4[th] week postpartum: the intervention group received a formula supplemented with MLCTs and sn-2 palmitate (IG, n = 65), the control group received a formula without these lipids (CG, n = 48), and the breastfed group (BG, n = 66). Assessment of infant temperament was conducted at the baseline (1 month postpartum) and endpoint (3 months postpartum) using the Early Infancy Temperament Questionnaire. Stool samples were collected concurrently for microbiome analysis via 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Results: After two months of intervention, the IG exhibited significant improvements in temperament scores compared to the CG, including activity (p = 0.039), mood (p = 0.023), persistence (p = 0.001), and distractibility (p = 0.006), but similar changes to the BG. As for the gut microbiome, the relative abundance of Bifidobacterium in the IG was significantly increased compared to the CG (p = 0.011) and was comparable to the BG (p = 0.759). Conversely, the decrease in the relative abundance of Blautia was significantly more pronounced in the IG than in both the CG (p = 0.002) and BG (p = 0.048). Furthermore, temperament characteristics were associated with microbiome genera in early infancy. Notably, a positive correlation was observed between the changes in activity scores and the relative abundance of Bifidobacterium (r = 0.25, p = 0.002). Conclusions: The intervention involving MLCTs and sn-2 palmitate improves infant temperament, potentially mediated via increased Bifidobacterium. These findings highlight the potential of nutrition to alter the infant temperament by modulating the gut microbiome, offering valuable insights for the development of optimized nutritional strategies to support neurodevelopment. The clinical trial registry number is NCT05295030 (https://clinicaltrials.gov).},
}

@article {pmid41705833,
year = {2026},
author = {Troha, N and Zorec, TM and Hošnjak, L and Strašek Smrdel, K and Celar Šturm, A and Šalamun, V and Grazio Frković, S and Vrtačnik Bokal, E and Poljak, M},
title = {Bacterial microbiome analysis of vaginal, cervical, and endometrial samples in patients with adenomyosis during the window of implantation.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0279125},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.02791-25},
pmid = {41705833},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Adenomyosis is a chronic gynecological condition affecting a substantial portion of women of reproductive age. With symptoms including abnormal uterine bleeding, chronic pelvic pain (CPP), dysmenorrhea, and infertility, poor response to symptomatic treatment and unfavorable outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies, it remains a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Here, we analyzed microbial compositions of the reproductive tract of women with adenomyosis (n = 33) in comparison with healthy controls (n = 31). Vaginal, cervical, and endometrial samples were collected using minimally invasive transcervical sampling techniques on the 22nd day of the menstrual cycle, during the so-called window of implantation. 16S rRNA was amplified and recorded using the next generation sequencing. Bioinformatic and statistical analysis focused on quantitative taxonomical characterization of the specimens' microbiomes. Vaginal bacterial microbiome composition was consistent across the three anatomical sites. Compared with the control group, adenomyosis was associated with Lactobacillus iners, whereas Lactobacillus gasseri and Gardnerella vaginalis were negatively associated with adenomyosis and its clinical symptoms. G. vaginalis, typically considered a pathogen, was highlighted as an important dominant microbiome replacement for lactobacilli, more so in healthy women than in women with adenomyosis. Anaerococcus prevotii, Peptoniphilus grossensis, and Peptrostreptococcus anaerobius also showed weak correlation to adenomyosis. Differences in taxa abundance were detected in association with adenomyosis clinical symptoms. L. iners was associated with dysmenorrhea, heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), as well as CPP. Prevotella disiens, Prevotella timonesis, and Dialister micraerophilus were associated with dysmenorrhea and Peptoniphilus grossensis with HMB, respectively. L. gasseri and L. jensenii appeared to anticorrelate with these symptoms.

IMPORTANCE: Adenomyosis poorly responds to treatment and assisted reproductive technologies. Here, we report a comprehensive 16S rRNA-based analysis of vaginal, cervical, and endometrial samples, obtained minimally invasively (transcervically) in a cohort of Caucasian women during the receptive phase of endometrium. Results revealed the least invasive option, vaginal microbiome sampling, reliably predicts the microbiome compositions of cervix and endometrium. We showed substantial variation in microbial composition of adenomyosis patients. L. iners, a species with specific functional traits, was consistently associated with adenomyosis presence and related symptoms. This finding suggests microbiome remodeling as a viable novel therapeutic option for adenomyosis. Furthermore, our findings indicate that the pathogenic role of G. vaginalis may be context-dependent. Ongoing genomic and ecological profiling is essential to clarify Gardnerella's dual commensal-pathogenic nature. Previous adenomyosis studies have mostly focused on the vaginal microbiome, whereas the endometrial microbiome has rarely been studied and never in the time of window of implantation.},
}