@article {pmid41735336,
year = {2026},
author = {Stabbins, A and Goffredi, S and Gasbarro, R and Dawson, K and Magyar, J and Glazier, A and Meinert, K and Orphan, V and Cordes, E},
title = {Microbially mediated carbon utilization by a cold-water coral inhabiting methane seeps.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41735336},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Deep-sea methane seeps fuel biodiverse habitats sustained by the release of hydrocarbon-rich fluids and associated microbial activity. Here, we describe the ecology of a seep-associated cold-water coral and provide evidence of its associations with chemosynthetic bacteria. High-resolution seafloor surveys revealed that the distribution of this coral was predominantly confined to actively seeping zones, and habitat suitability models confirmed that proximity to active seepage was an important factor influencing the coral’s distribution. Stable carbon-isotope values were consistent with a nutritional strategy incorporating chemosynthetically derived carbon, likely as a supplement to suspension feeding on photosynthetically derived material. Microbial metabarcoding confirmed the presence of both thiotrophic and methanotrophic bacteria, including SUP05 and MMG-2 groups. Incubations with [13]C-labelled methane further revealed this species may also be capable of assimilating methane-derived carbon into its biomass. These findings provide new evidence of a previously underrecognized facultative symbiosis between cold-water corals and chemosymbiotic bacteria and suggest that these corals are not restricted to the periphery of seep habitats. Instead, they may exploit microbial associations, including contributions from both thiotrophic and potentially methanotrophic taxa, to persist in actively seeping areas.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-025-32153-0.},
}

@article {pmid41876966,
year = {2026},
author = {Eshetu, FB and Barnes, I and Nahrung, HF and Fitza, KNE and Slippers, B},
title = {A Century of Invasion: How Biosecurity Influenced Populations of Sirex noctilio and Its Fungal Symbiont in Australasia.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {35},
number = {6},
pages = {e70311},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70311},
pmid = {41876966},
issn = {1365-294X},
support = {//Australian National Sirex Co-ordinate Committee/ ; //Tree Protection Co-operative Programme/ ; //University of Pretoria/ ; //University of Tasmania/ ; //Forest Research Institute/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis/genetics ; Microsatellite Repeats ; Animals ; *Introduced Species ; Australasia ; *Genetics, Population ; Genetic Variation ; DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Australia ; *Basidiomycota/genetics ; New Zealand ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; },
abstract = {The woodwasp, Sirex noctilio, and its mutualistic fungal symbiont, Amylostereum areolatum, are native to Eurasia and northern Africa. Sirex noctilio was first reported outside its native range in New Zealand in 1900, Tasmania in 1952 and mainland Australia in 1961. In this study, we consider the invasion history of these organisms across Australasia through population genetic analysis using mitochondrial sequence data and microsatellite markers and compared them with a previously published dataset from global collections. The study included contemporary (n = 461) and historical (n = 41) samples of S. noctilio dating back to 1952 and fungal (n = 176) samples from across the range. No population structure was found in Australian and New Zealand populations of S. noctilio or the fungal symbiont A. areolatum, reflecting both the natural (within the countries) and human-assisted (between the countries) spread of these symbionts. The S. noctilio populations in these countries had lower genetic diversity than other populations sampled globally. Amylostereum areolatum populations from Australia and New Zealand clustered separately from all other countries and were highly clonal. While the results suggested multiple early introductions in these two countries, it also reflected an efficient recent quarantine system that isolated these populations and reduced their complexity compared to other parts of the world. The findings also have relevance to the application of biological control for the pest complex.},
}

*Symbiosis/genetics
Microsatellite Repeats
Animals
*Introduced Species
Australasia
*Genetics, Population
Genetic Variation
DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics
Australia
*Basidiomycota/genetics
New Zealand
Sequence Analysis, DNA

@article {pmid41877353,
year = {2026},
author = {Buzzoni, D and Van Nynatten, A and Cunning, R and Baum, JK},
title = {Persistent Legacy Effects of Marine Heatwaves on Coral Symbioses.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {32},
number = {3},
pages = {e70818},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.70818},
pmid = {41877353},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {SAS-2021-047//The Leverhulme Trust, Study Abroad Studentship/ ; OCE-1446402//National Science Foundation (NSF) RAPID/ ; //Rufford Maurice Laing Foundation/ ; //Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; //Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) Leaders Opportunity Fund/ ; //University of Victoria/ ; NFRFT-2020-00073//Government of Canada's New Frontiers in Research Fund (NFRF), BIOSCAN/ ; NGS-146R-18//National Geographic Society, Committee for Research and Exploration/ ; NGS-63112R-19//National Geographic Society, Committee for Research and Exploration/ ; //The Pew Charitable Trusts, Pew Fellowship in Marine Conservation/ ; //David and Lucile Packard Foundation/ ; //British Columbia Knowledge Development Fund/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis ; Animals ; *Anthozoa/physiology ; *Climate Change ; Coral Reefs ; *Hot Temperature ; *Dinoflagellida/physiology ; },
abstract = {Obligate endosymbioses between eukaryotes and their single-celled inhabitants form the basis of many ecosystems, yet little is known about the long-term impacts of climate change on them. On coral reefs, extensive studies have shown that climate change-driven heatwaves and other environmental stressors can disrupt the obligate symbiosis between reef-building corals and Symbiodiniaceae, with consequences for coral fitness and survival. However, despite coral symbioses playing a fundamental role in reef resilience to climate change, whether, and at what rate, they recover following heatwave disruption is largely unknown. We used ITS2 DNA metabarcoding to characterise symbiont assemblages in colonies (n = 237; 598 samples) of the brain coral Platygyra ryukyuensis over a decade (2014-2023), spanning from before to long after the 2015-2016 El Niño at its epicentre, Kiritimati, in the central equatorial Pacific. Although before the heatwave only P. ryukyuensis colonies exposed to high levels of chronic local disturbance were dominated by stress-tolerant Durusdinium symbionts, surviving colonies around the atoll transitioned during the heatwave from Cladocopium dominance to Durusdinium dominance. Here, we show that nearly eight years after this transition, these symbiotic partnerships had not recovered, but rather Durusdinium remained entrenched in virtually all (92%) Platygyra colonies. Recovery of symbionts in the genus Cladocopium was severely limited and restricted to taxa distinct from their 'C3' and 'C50a' pre-heatwave congenerics. Moreover, in the three immediate post-heatwave years, many tracked corals, and especially those at low local disturbance, high in-water visibility sites, hosted transient symbiont assemblages codominated by Durusdinium and the previously rare genus Symbiodinium. Our results demonstrate that heatwave-driven symbiont transitions can persist for longer than the average heatwave return time, potentially impairing coral resilience to future extreme weather events.},
}

*Symbiosis
Animals
*Anthozoa/physiology
*Climate Change
Coral Reefs
*Hot Temperature
*Dinoflagellida/physiology

@article {pmid41878743,
year = {2026},
author = {Cui, S and Wang, F and Wu, H and Li, L and Huang, X and Jin, D and Xiao, H and Li, W and Liu, Y},
title = {The impact of dinotefuran application at different concentrations on soil microbial communities in vineyards.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1784722},
pmid = {41878743},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Soil microbiomes are essential for grapevine health and vineyard sustainability. Grape phylloxera poses a serious threat to the grape industry, although dinotefuran effectively controls this pest, the concentration-dependent effects of this insecticide on vineyard soil microbial communities remain unclear. Using high-throughput sequencing, this study examined the structural and functional responses of soil bacterial and fungal communities to varying concentrations of dinotefuran. Our results revealed that both 10 and 20% dinotefuran treatments significantly altered bacterial community structure without affecting bacterial alpha diversity. Fungal communities were more sensitive, showing significant structural changes, and significantly reduced alpha diversity (particularly richness) under the 20% treatment. In bacterial communities, high-concentration treatment reduced key soil health and nutrient cycling (e.g., Kaistobacter, Solibacter), and biocontrol (e.g., Streptomyces) group. The 10% treatment retained bacteria with potential ecological remediation (e.g., Nocardioides), whereas the relative abundance of potential stress-adapted bacteria (e.g., Arthrobacter) significantly increased. For fungi, high-concentration treatment reduced beneficial phosphate-solubilizing (e.g., Mortierella) and biocontrol (e.g., Trichoderma) fungi, while potential pathogenic fungal groups exhibited significantly higher relative abundances. Functionally, high-concentration insecticide treatment suppressed beneficial bacterial functions, including secondary metabolite synthesis, lipid metabolism, and microbial group behavior, while also reducing fundamental metabolic and genetic information processing activities. This treatment additionally increased the abundance of pathogenic and saprotrophic fungi, and decreased symbiotic fungi, with the relative abundances of plant pathogens showing a significant increasing under high doses. In contrast, low-concentration treatment enhanced bacterial detoxification pathways, whereas high-concentration treatment activated stress-response functions. These findings elucidate the dose-dependent responses of microorganisms to insecticides, and underscore the critical importance of rational pesticide application in maintaining soil ecological balance and vineyard sustainability.},
}

@article {pmid41880019,
year = {2026},
author = {Ghosh, S and Sharma, B},
title = {Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi-Mediated Phytoremediation: Harnessing a Sustainable Approach in Environmental Cleanup of Heavy Metals and Organic Pollutants.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {41880019},
issn = {1432-0991},
support = {24D/03/00569//University Grants Commission-India/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/metabolism/genetics/physiology ; *Biodegradation, Environmental ; *Metals, Heavy/metabolism ; *Soil Pollutants/metabolism ; Symbiosis ; *Plants/microbiology/metabolism ; Soil Microbiology ; },
abstract = {Wastelands, often defined as unutilized lands or areas where the current biomass seldom exceeds 20% of its total potential, pose ecological and socio-economic challenges. Restoring wastelands can help bridge the gap between food availability and population growth. Previous studies have demonstrated that arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi can be a sustainable yet effective amelioration strategy for restoring wastelands. Yet, limited knowledge exists on the genetic foundation and role of nutrient availability in AMF-plant symbiosis. This review paper addresses the role of Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in pollutant degradation while highlighting the importance of AMF specificity. Additionally, it addresses the genetic basis of the interaction and environmental influence in the symbiosis. By focusing on recent advances, the review underscores the prospective role of AMF as a bio-tool in ecological restoration and addresses critical knowledge gaps to guide future directions.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/metabolism/genetics/physiology
*Biodegradation, Environmental
*Metals, Heavy/metabolism
*Soil Pollutants/metabolism
Symbiosis
*Plants/microbiology/metabolism
Soil Microbiology

@article {pmid41872234,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, X and Long, Q and Jiang, M and Tan, W and Ding, N and Sun, H and Liu, X and Hu, X and Liu, H and Li, X and Liu, J and Zhou, J and Du, X},
title = {Engineered microbial hydrogels with confined architecture and binary microbes for efficient hydrogen production.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41467-026-70988-x},
pmid = {41872234},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {52173260//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 22408243//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; },
abstract = {Renewable energy sources, particularly hydrogen, offer a promising solution to address global energy crisis and carbon emissions. Microalgae-driven hydrogen production has attracted immense interest in both scientific and industrial fields. However, challenges such as high oxygen sensitivity, substantial water demand, and low hydrogen production efficiency limit their potential. Here, we develop a core-shell symbiotic hydrogel system for enhanced hydrogen production via leveraging coaxial 3D bioprinting to spatially separate microalgae (i.e., core component) and bacteria (i.e., shell component). These networks optimize light and nutrient utilization while providing a localized anaerobic microenvironment to facilitate hydrogen production from microalgal photosynthesis. The symbiotic system enables a high hydrogen yield (1763 ± 98 mL L[-][1]). The system not only provides a highly efficient, liquid-free strategy for biohydrogen generation, but also advances the understanding of symbiotic relationships and microorganism-material interactions for creating advanced living material systems.},
}

@article {pmid41872829,
year = {2026},
author = {Yuan, M and Zhu, Z and Zhang, K and Jiang, L and Zeng, T and Cheng, J},
title = {Couples' symbiotic experience in perinatal vulnerability: a phenomenological qualitative study.},
journal = {BMC pregnancy and childbirth},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12884-026-08964-y},
pmid = {41872829},
issn = {1471-2393},
support = {No. 72304105//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No. 2024D26//2024 Scientific Research Fund Proiect of Tongii Hospital/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41873149,
year = {2026},
author = {Panossian, B and McLean, AHC and Patel, V and Wu, T and Haider, MB and Oliver, KM and Henry, LM},
title = {Phage toxin variants are linked to protection specificity in a defensive symbiont.},
journal = {Molecular biology and evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/molbev/msag079},
pmid = {41873149},
issn = {1537-1719},
abstract = {Insects often depend on symbiotic bacteria for protection, yet the mechanisms by which these microbes target specific natural enemies remain poorly understood. In aphids, different strains of the facultative symbiont Hamiltonella defensa provide highly specific protection against particular species of parasitoid wasps. To uncover the genetic basis of this specificity, we analyzed 26 Hamiltonella genomes and their toxin-encoding APSE bacteriophages with distinct protective phenotypes. Our analyses revealed that Hamiltonella strains share a conserved core genome but differ significantly in accessory gene content, reflecting their distinct evolutionary origins. Strikingly, we show that variation in toxin types is the key distinguishing feature of APSE phages in Hamiltonella strains that protect against different parasitoid species. These toxin repertoires include several novel candidates, such as variants with MAC/perforin domains and leucine-rich repeat (LRR) proteins previously unreported in insect defensive symbionts. We also reveal cases of multiple co-integrated APSE phages carrying different toxins within a single genomic locus. These findings suggest phage-borne toxins are important determinants of enemy-specific defense and point to phage-driven toxin diversification as a major force shaping the functional evolution of this symbiosis. This work highlights how mobile genetic elements influence the ecological roles and diversification of protective symbionts.},
}

@article {pmid41873576,
year = {2026},
author = {Rosa-Téllez, S and García-Calderón, M and Medeiros, DB and Márquez, AJ and Fernie, AR and Betti, M},
title = {Disruption of Asparagine Synthetase Is Associated to Increased Biomass in Lotus japonicus.},
journal = {Plant biotechnology journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pbi.70637},
pmid = {41873576},
issn = {1467-7652},
support = {PID2021-122353OB-I00//MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and FEDER, UE/ ; RTI-2018-093571-B100//MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and FEDER, UE/ ; },
abstract = {Asparagine (Asn) constitutes the major form of nitrogen translocated within Lotus japonicus plants. In this work we use knock-out (KO) LORE1 mutants-deficient in the asparagine synthetase gene (LjASN1), which is the most highly expressed ASN gene in plants grown under non-symbiotic (NS) conditions, but much less expressed under symbiotic (S) conditions. The analysis of two different Ljasn1 homozygous mutant lines grown under NS or S conditions indicated that a much higher biomass was produced in Ljasn1 mutants grown under NS conditions compared to the WT (wild-type), whereas little difference with the WT was observed in mutant plants under S conditions. Metabolomic analysis revealed that Ljasn1 mutant plants are quite distinct to WT plants when grown under NS conditions, but not under S conditions. Asn levels were considerably reduced in Ljasn1 mutant plants compared to the WT when plants were grown under NS but not under S conditions. A general decrease in amino acids and an increase in carbon compounds, such as sugars and oxo-acids, was detected in NS roots and shoots, respectively, which may explain the growth phenotypes observed. RNAseq analysis showed changes related to oxidative metabolism under NS conditions, and C/N metabolism under S conditions. The data indicate that the LjASN1 deficiency produces important changes in the C/N balance and metabolite allocation of L. japonicus plants resulting in higher biomass content and lower Asn levels, two interesting traits for biotechnological crops engineering.},
}

@article {pmid41874402,
year = {2026},
author = {Bongrand, C and Lami, R and Suzuki, MT and Koch, EJ},
title = {Two Vibrio species co-colonize a morphologically complex symbiotic light organ.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wrag063},
pmid = {41874402},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {The squid-vibrio symbiosis has illuminated fundamental mechanisms of beneficial animal-microbe associations, yet the interactions within sepiolid squid of the Mediterranean Sea remain underexplored. Here we characterize the Sepiola affinis squid-vibrio symbiosis by combining whole-genome sequencing of light-organ isolates, confocal microscopy, and temperature-dependent growth assays. Comparative genomic analyses (ANI, phylogenomics, and functional analyses) revealed two previously undescribed Vibrio species to be symbionts of the S. affinis light organ. One of the species clusters more distantly from other Vibrio species, whereas the second is closer to established Vibrio clades and exhibits an expanded repertoire of mobile elements and Type VI secretion components, suggesting heightened capacity for genetic exchange and interbacterial interaction. Furthermore, confocal microscopy of juvenile squid established that the S. affinis light organ comprises twelve crypts connected by pores and ducts, expanding the number of symbiotic niches relative to other sepiolid squid. In addition, fluorescently labeled isolates from the two Vibrio species colonized juveniles in both mono- and co-colonization patterns within crypts. Finally, growth assays across 16-24°C identified species-specific temperature differences, indicating temperature preferences that may align with seasonal variability in the Mediterranean Sea. Together, these findings position S. affinis to be a tractable model for studying how symbiont diversity, organ architecture, and interbacterial interactions contribute to the stability of a mutualistic symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid41874404,
year = {2026},
author = {Kück, AC and Leibrecht, L and Morel-Letelier, I and Gros, O and Wilkins, LGE and Yuen-Simović, B and Petersen, JM},
title = {Host species-specific gene expression by a widespread and flexible chemosynthetic symbiont.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wrag065},
pmid = {41874404},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {Associations with microbial symbionts shape the ecology and evolution of almost all eukaryotes. One of their defining features is their specificity, but despite this, many symbioses show a degree of flexibility, with some symbiont species capable of colonizing multiple (often closely related) host species. Although widespread, the functional and evolutionary consequences of flexibility in host-symbiont pairings is poorly understood. Bivalves from the diverse, globally distributed, and ecologically important family Lucinidae are ideal for investigating this, as multiple host species can associate with the same symbiont species, often at the same location. We used metatranscriptomics to investigate the molecular responses of one symbiont species, Candidatus Thiodiazotropha endolucinida, in association with three different host species that co-occur in seagrass meadows in the Caribbean Sea. In replicated experiments, we identified host species-specific patterns of symbiont gene expression including those for key functions such as carbon fixation, cell division, and sulfide oxidation. Our work shows that the symbiont consistently responds in different ways to association with different host species. Because all samples were collected at the same site on the same day, and were thus exposed to the same environmental conditions, these differences are likely driven by host rather than environmental factors. In addition, host species had significantly different carbon isotope signatures, which were consistent with distinct modes of host-microbe interaction indicated by transcriptomics. Our results show that not only symbiont genotype, but also symbiont phenotype may enable coexistence of closely related host species, demonstrating the power of symbiosis in promoting and maintaining biodiversity.},
}

@article {pmid41874807,
year = {2026},
author = {Shichinohe, S and Izumiyama, S and Takaki, Y and Hirai, M and Urayama, SI and Nunoura, T and Kazama, M},
title = {Identification of a novel toti-like virus symbiotic with Giardia duodenalis.},
journal = {Archives of virology},
volume = {171},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41874807},
issn = {1432-8798},
support = {16H06429, 16K21723, 17H05809//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 2021-Ippan-35, 2022-Ippan-32, 2024-Ippan-28//The Joint Usage/Research Center on Tropical Disease, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41875802,
year = {2026},
author = {Balakrishnan, D and Magudeeswari, P and Surapaneni, M and Kumar, AP and Anantha, MS and Saiprasad, SV and Neelamraju, S and Sundaram, RM},
title = {Genotyping by sequencing of wild interspecific mapping population detected novel genetic locus harbouring OsPT11 for rice yield under nutrient stress conditions.},
journal = {Plant physiology and biochemistry : PPB},
volume = {233},
number = {},
pages = {111231},
doi = {10.1016/j.plaphy.2026.111231},
pmid = {41875802},
issn = {1873-2690},
abstract = {Nutrient deficiency is a major constraint to crop production, severely impairing crop establishment and yield. The development of high-yielding cultivars with enhanced tolerance to limited nutrient availability is therefore essential for sustainable crop production. Wild introgression lines, which have evolved to grow and reproduce under adverse environmental conditions, represent valuable genetic resources and potential donors of traits and genes that confer adaptation to nutrient-limited environments. In this study, wild introgression lines derived from Oryza rufipogon were evaluated across six environments, comprising four environments under the recommended dose of phosphorus (RDP) and two environments under low-phosphorus (low P) conditions. Genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) enabled the identification of 113 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with key agronomic traits. Of these, 41 major QTLs were detected under RDP, while 21 major QTLs were identified under low P stress, explaining up to 28.06% and 30.23% of the phenotypic variance, respectively. Notably, two major QTLs governing grain yield were consistently detected under low-phosphorus conditions, with favourable alleles enhancing yield derived from O. rufipogon. QTLs for days to 50% flowering, number of tillers per plant, and number of productive tillers per plant were consistently identified across both environments. Furthermore, a QTL hotspot region was detected on chromosome 1, harbouring eight QTLs associated with biomass, total tiller number, productive tiller number, total dry matter, and thousand-grain weight. Candidate gene analysis within this hotspot region identified the Pi transporter gene OsPT11, which is involved in phosphorus acquisition and translocation and plays a key role in activating mycorrhizal symbiosis. These findings suggest that this QTL region represents a promising target for improving grain yield under low-nutrient conditions and may enhance root-microbiome interactions, facilitating more efficient nutrient uptake under stress.},
}

@article {pmid41866923,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, LJ and Xu, T and Zhang, M and Ling, YX and Wang, W and Feng, L and Zhao, Q and Han, BX and Yi, SY},
title = {Coprinellus sp. DJL-31 Promotes Both Seed Germination and Pseudobulb Growth in Cremastra appendiculata.},
journal = {Journal of basic microbiology},
volume = {66},
number = {3},
pages = {e70164},
doi = {10.1002/jobm.70164},
pmid = {41866923},
issn = {1521-4028},
support = {2023YFC3503804//National Key Research and Development Program/ ; 2060302//Key Project at central government level, Chinese Medicine Resources/ ; YQZD2024037//Key Project of Excellent Young Teachers Training in Anhui Province/ ; 2025AHGXZK20167//Major Research Project of Anhui Provincial Department of Education/ ; XDGJ202503//The West Anhui University Campus Collaborative Research and Innovation Team Project/ ; CI2021B013//Science and Technology Innovation Project of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences/ ; TCMADM-2024-04//Open Project of Anhui Dabieshan Chinese Medicine Research Institute/ ; WXZR202427//Open Project of Anhui Engineering Research Center for Eco-agriculture of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; },
mesh = {*Germination ; *Orchidaceae/microbiology/growth & development ; *Seeds/microbiology/growth & development ; Symbiosis ; Triticum/microbiology/growth & development ; Endophytes/physiology/isolation & purification ; Mycorrhizae/physiology/growth & development ; Sorghum/microbiology/growth & development ; },
abstract = {Cremastra appendiculata is an endangered medicinal orchid with limited propagation, as its seeds depend on specific symbiotic fungi for germination, and its pseudobulbs have poor propagation efficiency. Pseudobulb-associated endophytes render ex situ cultivation of C. appendiculata more feasible than seed-associated mycorrhizal fungi, as the former are easier to culture under controlled conditions and thus better support the orchid's ex situ propagation. In this study, 35 fungal strains representing 15 genera from 12 families were isolated from C. appendiculata pseudobulbs. Six of these strains were evaluated for growth-promoting capacity, and assays on wheat and sorghum indicated five isolates demonstrated growth-promoting effects on model plants. When their specific symbiotic roles in C. appendiculata were examined, only Coprinellus sp. DJL-31 enhanced seed germination and pseudobulb development. With DJL-31, seed germination was ~85%, and protocorms formed within 45 days. DJL-31 advanced pseudobulb sprouting by 7-10 days and increased sprout number. Microscopy verified that DJL-31 colonized epidermal and cortical cells in protocorm, forming hyphal aggregates. The other four strains that promoted the growth of model crops had no significant effects on C. appendiculata. This is the first to reveal the growth-promoting potential of Coprinellus sp. DJL-31 during the "seed germination-pseudobulb growth" phase of C. appendiculata. These results provide a novel pseudobulb-based screening framework to support the ex situ propagation and conservation of C. appendiculata.},
}

*Germination
*Orchidaceae/microbiology/growth & development
*Seeds/microbiology/growth & development
Symbiosis
Triticum/microbiology/growth & development
Endophytes/physiology/isolation & purification
Mycorrhizae/physiology/growth & development
Sorghum/microbiology/growth & development

@article {pmid41868351,
year = {2026},
author = {Gou, L and Miao, X and Liu, Y and Zhang, M and Guo, M},
title = {Construction of a Cu/Fe/S multi-active-site synergistic Fenton-like system via mechanically activated natural copper sulfide ore for efficient tetracycline degradation.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {16},
number = {17},
pages = {15736-15748},
pmid = {41868351},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {Addressing the underexplored catalytic potential of natural polymetallic sulfide minerals and the unclear structure-activity relationship between symbiotic structures and catalytic performance, this study explores the use of mechanically activated natural copper sulfide ore to construct a bimetallic synergistic Fenton-like system for tetracycline degradation, with a focus on the synergistic role of Cu/Fe/S multi-active sites. By optimizing ball milling parameters (ball-to-powder ratio of 3 : 1, duration of 24 h), the catalyst achieved a remarkable 90.11% tetracycline degradation within 10 minutes. Mechanistic investigations revealed that mechanical activation refined particle size, increased specific surface area, and exposed more Cu/Fe/S active sites, establishing a "homogeneous (66.36%) - heterogeneous (33.64%)" synergistic catalytic mechanism. In the homogeneous phase, dissolved Cu[2+]/Fe[2+] accelerated H2O2 decomposition. In the heterogeneous phase, the Cu[+]/Fe[3+] redox couple (0.16 V/0.77 V) created an energy level difference. Coupled with reductive sulfur species (S[2-], S2 [2-])-mediated electron transfer, this facilitated the Fe[3+] → Fe[2+] and Cu[2+] → Cu[+] cycles, thereby enhancing radical generation efficiency. Two distinct degradation pathways for tetracycline by the copper sulfide concentrate were identified, with intermediates undergoing deep oxidation and ring-opening reactions to mineralize into H2O, CO2, and NO3 [-]. This study overcomes the limitations of traditional single iron-based sulfide catalysts, revealing the catalytic enhancement mechanism of natural mineral symbiotic structures under mechanical activation. It offers a cost-effective and efficient heterogeneous Fenton-like solution for antibiotic wastewater treatment.},
}

@article {pmid41868368,
year = {2026},
author = {Dou, W and Li, T},
title = {Wolbachia-induced cytoplasmic incompatibility triggers intergenerational dysregulation of the small RNA regulatory network in offspring.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1764569},
pmid = {41868368},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The intracellular symbiont Wolbachia, which is widespread among insects, may induce cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) between hosts with different infection statuses. Increasing evidence indicates that symbiotic bacteria can influence host reproduction, metabolism, and other biological processes by modulating non-coding small RNAs. However, it is still unclear how Wolbachia-induced CI affects the offspring reproduction. In this study, using Drosophila melanogaster as a model system, small RNA and transcriptome sequencing were conducted on the reproductive systems of the offspring resulting from crosses between Wolbachia-infected males and uninfected females. By comparing F1 males and females to their respective paternal or maternal lines, we identified distinct intergenerational discrepancies. The male offspring of the CI cross showed a significant upregulation of immune-related genes and a notable downregulation of reproductive-related genes. Moreover, the microRNA regulatory network in the testes of the offspring was significantly disrupted, with the target genes directly involved in embryonic development, energy metabolism, immune regulation, and reproductive behavior. Additionally, increased transposable element (TE) expression and piRNA dysregulation were observed in the testes of male offspring. Overall, this study offered new insights into the intergenerational regulatory effects of Wolbachia-induced CI and its potential mechanisms.},
}

@article {pmid41868371,
year = {2026},
author = {Bel Mokhtar, N and Stathopoulou, P and Asimakis, E and Augustinos, A and Salgueiro, J and Alleck, M and Sookar, P and Dembilio, Ó and Segura, DF and Tsiamis, G},
title = {Evolutionary dynamics of type VI secretion systems in fruit fly-associated Enterobacter.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1755534},
pmid = {41868371},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Species in the genus Enterobacter are widely distributed and occupy diverse ecological niches. Although many species within this genus have been extensively isolated and characterized, their symbiotic associations with Tephritidae fruit flies remain understudied, particularly through comparative genomic analyses. To address this gap, we conducted a whole-genome comparative analysis of thirteen Enterobacter strains isolated from the most economically significant fruit fly species: Anastrepha fraterculus, Bactrocera dorsalis, Bactrocera zonata, Ceratitis capitata, and Zeugodacus cucurbitae. The results revealed that different fruit flies harbor distinct Enterobacter species, with Enterobacter hormaechei being the most prevalent across hosts. Notably, distinct E. hormaechei subspecies were associated with specific hosts, suggesting a potential host-driven adaptation and coevolution. Pangenome analysis highlighted a dynamic genetic structure among these strains, with significant differences in the core, shell, and species-specific gene composition. The high proportion of metabolism-related genes in the core genome suggests a conserved role in essential biological functions, whereas the enrichment of mobile genetic elements (prophages and transposons) and cell motility genes within the shell and species-specific genomes highlights the genomic plasticity and potential host-specific adaptations. Three distinct subtypes of T6SS (type VI secretion systems) gene clusters, T6SS_C1, T6SS_C2, and T6SS_C3, were detected across Enterobacter strains. T6SS_C1 and T6SS_C2 were identified in most Enterobacter strains, whereas T6SS_C3 cluster was restricted to a single isolate. Although these clusters contained thirteen core T6SS genes, they were characterized by different gene synteny and effector/immunity gene content, suggesting that different Enterobacter strains may utilize distinct mechanisms for interbacterial interactions, host manipulation, and environmental adaptation. Overall, our findings reveal the genetic basis of the symbiosis between Enterobacter species and fruit flies, shedding light on their evolutionary dynamics, diversity of T6SS, and functional traits. These results open new avenues for developing microbiome-based strategies for pest management, including the targeted manipulation of microbial communities to enhance sterile insect technique (SIT) outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41869768,
year = {2026},
author = {Utley, D and Budnick, A and Radutoiu, S and Sederoff, H},
title = {Circular RNAs in Lotus japonicus Responses to Nutrient Supply and Mesorhizobium Symbiosis.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70496},
pmid = {41869768},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {NNF19SA0059362//Novo Nordisk Fonden/ ; },
abstract = {Symbiotic interactions between legumes and rhizobia enable nitrogen fixation under low nutrient conditions. The establishment and function of symbiotic interactions require coordinated changes in gene expression in both the host and the microbe. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are endogenous gene-specific molecules that can regulate transcription and translation in response to biotic and abiotic stress through various mechanisms. Our objective was to identify circRNAs specifically generated in response to nutrient supply and rhizobial symbiosis. We sequenced nodulated and non-inoculated roots from Lotus japonicus and identified a total of 11,923 putative circRNAs originating from 5,290 nuclear-encoded transcripts in Lotus roots under low or high nutrient supply and nodulated roots. Of those, 58 circRNAs were specific and present in most nodulated root samples. We identified circRNAs for more than half of the known symbiosis-associated genes, including SymRK, CCamK, and Cyclops, and showed that several of those genes also generated circRNAs in Phaseolus vulgaris nodules. We validated select circRNAs potentially involved in regulating symbiosis and predicted miRNA recognition elements (MREs) created only by the backsplice junctions of circRNAs. These putative backsplice-generated MREs could represent an additional mechanism by which circRNAs may modulate the abundance and translation of mRNAs in competing endogenous RNA-regulatory networks.},
}

@article {pmid41870205,
year = {2026},
author = {Senanayake, G and Pease, AB and Gautam, CK and Prüß, BM and Geddes, BA},
title = {Fluorescent bioreporters for assessing nitrogenase expression and rhizobial nodule occupancy in Lotus japonicus and Pisum sativum.},
journal = {Microbiology resource announcements},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0010326},
doi = {10.1128/mra.00103-26},
pmid = {41870205},
issn = {2576-098X},
abstract = {A bioreporter system based on sfYFP, sfCFP, and mScarlet-I in Mesorhizobium japonicum and sfYFP and sfCFP in Rhizobium leguminosarum, driven by nifH consensus promoters was established to monitor occupancy and nitrogen fixation events within legume host nodules. These bioreporter plasmids expand established rhizobium sfGFP system to new hosts and fluorophores.},
}

@article {pmid41870392,
year = {2026},
author = {de Campos Costa, MA and Macedo Fraiz, G and Rezende Cardoso, R and da Silva, A and da Silva Duarte, V and Soares Gazzinelli Cruz, CE and Rodrigues, EG and Shaikh, MW and Keshavarzian, A and Hamaker, BR and Corich, V and Giacomini, A and Stampini Duarte Martino, H and Bressan, J and Ribeiro de Barros, FA},
title = {Regular black tea kombucha consumption is associated with improved insulin resistance and increased ADIPOQ expression in adults with obesity: a pre-post clinical trial.},
journal = {Food & function},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5fo02226f},
pmid = {41870392},
issn = {2042-650X},
abstract = {Kombucha is a fermented beverage obtained by a Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast (SCOBY). Although in vitro and animal studies suggest that kombucha has anti-inflammatory and anti-obesogenic properties, no clinical trials have confirmed that. In this pre-post clinical intervention study, we aimed to evaluate whether regular black tea kombucha consumption would impact metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress markers; body weight and composition; and obesity-associated genes in individuals with and without obesity. This study follows the Transparent Reporting of Evaluations with Nonrandomized Designs (TREND) guidelines. Individuals with normal weight (Group 1; n = 20) and with obesity (Group 2; n = 16) received 200 mL of black tea kombucha for 8 consecutive weeks. Blood and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) were collected at the baseline (T0) and after 8 weeks of intervention (T8). Most inflammatory (hs-CRP, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-12p70) and oxidative stress markers (FRAP, MDA, and NO) showed significant changes over time following the intervention. However, interaction analyses revealed that responses to kombucha consumption differed between groups for only a limited number of variables: body weight, conicity index, HOMA-IR, and hs-CRP. An upregulation of the gene ADIPOQ in the SAT (p = 0.0481) was also observed, alongside a positive correlation between the BMI and PPARγ (r = 0.58; p = 0.030), and between HOMA-IR and both NFκB (r = 0.73; p = 0.002) and SREBF1 (r = 0.66; p = 0.010). In conclusion, metabolic and inflammatory pathways may respond differently to kombucha consumption depending on the obesity status. The results are mainly attributed to the high number and diversity of phenolic compounds identified in the black tea kombucha, which confer a high antioxidant capacity to the beverage.},
}

@article {pmid41871362,
year = {2026},
author = {Soto, C and Almendras, K and Orlando, J},
title = {Functional hierarchy and redundancy organize phosphorus cycling potential in Peltigera lichen microbiomes.},
journal = {FEMS microbiology letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/femsle/fnag029},
pmid = {41871362},
issn = {1574-6968},
abstract = {Lichen symbioses host complex microbial communities whose functional organization remains poorly understood. In Peltigera lichens, bacterial partners mediate key nutrient transformations, but it is unclear whether the spatial distribution of phosphorus-cycling functions follows the hierarchical control previously observed for community composition. We hypothesized that Peltigera microbiomes follow a thallus-to-soil gradient of control, in which host-driven specialization within thalli transitions toward environmentally driven reconfiguration in the substrate and soil. To test this, we quantified five bacterial genes involved in phosphorus turnover (gcd, phoD, phoN, phnX, and appA) across thalli, underlying substrates, and adjacent soils of several Peltigera species collected along contrasting Patagonian bioclimates. Absolute and relative gene abundances, together with diversity and variance partitioning analyses, were used to evaluate the influence of host identity, edaphic properties, and climate. Gene profiles revealed a shift from host-associated specialization to environmentally filtered assemblages, indicating that symbiotic and abiotic factors jointly structure phosphorus-cycling potential. The coexistence of functional specialization and redundancy provides a plausible mechanism for sustaining phosphorus turnover under changing environmental conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41871796,
year = {2026},
author = {Beigel, K and Bringhurst, B and Greenwold, M and Kellner, K and Seal, JN},
title = {Non-reciprocal coevolution in a fungus-gardening ant.},
journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108608},
doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2026.108608},
pmid = {41871796},
issn = {1095-9513},
abstract = {Symbioses are often characterized by nonrandom associations between hosts and symbionts. Hosts may obtain symbionts horizontally from the environment or vertically from a parent or sometimes use both methods. Macroevolutionary examinations of fungus-gardening ants and their fungi have shown either a 1:1 coevolution model or a 'diffuse' model between ant host and fungal symbionts. However, some of these conclusions may have been based on using relatively conservative molecular markers, which could obscure cryptic variation. The use of whole genome approaches potentially offer more power in elucidating coevolutionary history. In this study, we examined patterns of coevolution in a single species (Trachymyrmex septentrionalis) using genomic and experimental approaches. We tested whether ant-fungal specificity patterns reflected either 1:1 or diffuse models of coevolution. While we report significant co-phylogenetic signal among intraspecific ant host and fungal symbiont lineages, we found evidence of 1:1 coevolution in some lineages and diffuse in others. These conclusions were supported by the results of experiments where newly mated T. septentrionalis queens were forced to grow novel fungi that suggested that not all fungi are equivalent symbionts and would require specialized hosts. Thus, within a single ant species, there is a mixed support for both models.},
}

@article {pmid41871993,
year = {2026},
author = {Dallaire, A and Kameoka, H},
title = {Status of mycorrhiza research in 2026.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71119},
pmid = {41871993},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {W2432020//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Mycorrhizal symbiosis improves the nutrition of most land plants and plays key roles in nutrient cycling and ecosystem function. To understand and leverage the biology of mycorrhizal symbioses for sustainable agriculture and silviculture and the preservation of terrestrial ecosystems, molecular mechanisms enabling its establishment, function, and regulation are being investigated. Technological and conceptual advances are transforming the field and provide a detailed understanding of the mycorrhizal symbiosis on both the fungal and plant sides. In this viewpoint, we summarize recent advances that move the field toward a mechanistic understanding of mycorrhizal symbiosis, with a particular focus on studies presented at the 7[th] International Molecular Mycorrhiza Meeting (iMMM) held in Munich in September 2025.},
}

@article {pmid41863708,
year = {2026},
author = {Mishra, AK and Verma, S and Mishra, A and Khan, G and Singh, H},
title = {Unlocking the role of microbiome through gut-skin axis to alleviate aging: current perspectives and future scope.},
journal = {GeroScience},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41863708},
issn = {2509-2723},
abstract = {The microbiota of intestinal origin has a significant impact on the aging process, affecting skin health and overall cell longevity. Aging is marked by physiological alterations, such as enhanced oxidative stress, which is intensified by external factors like UV radiation and environmental pollution. The gut microbiota profoundly influences immune functions and results in reduced inflammation, which contributes to the anti-aging process. The present review is an attempt to showcase the current studies on the gut-skin axis, investigating the impact of gut-derived metabolites, particularly short-chain fatty acids, postbiotics, synbiotics, and psychobiotics, on the function of skin barriers and the aging process. Dietary supplements, including prebiotics along with probiotics, have demonstrated significant potential in altering gut microbiota composition and, in turn, improving skin health. Future studies must focus on investigating the connection between gut microbiota and cellular senescence, the effectiveness of microbiota-targeted therapeutics, and the incorporation of targeted therapy to delay the aging process. Comprehending these processes may facilitate the development of novel ways to enhance healthy aging and alleviate age-related diseases through the gut-skin axis via microbiome regulation.},
}

@article {pmid41863980,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiang, XQ and Zou, ZC and Zeng, YL and Yuan, HT and Feng, X and Wang, YS},
title = {Tannic acid supplementation exerts biphasic effects on growth performance, immune function, and gut microbiota in Pekin duck.},
journal = {Poultry science},
volume = {105},
number = {6},
pages = {106754},
doi = {10.1016/j.psj.2026.106754},
pmid = {41863980},
issn = {1525-3171},
abstract = {Tannins, which are polyphenols present in several plant species, have been shown to exert several beneficial effects in livestock at specific levels. However, the optimal dosage for growth promotion in waterfowl like Pekin ducks remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary tannic acid (TA) supplementation on the performance of Pekin ducks. A total of 420 male Pekin ducks were assigned to to five groups and fed a basal diet supplemented with 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.35, or 0.5% TA (control, TAS0.1, TAS0.2, TAS0.35, and TAS0.5, respectively). Growth performance, serum biochemical, oxidative parameters, immune parameters, and cecal microbiota were analyzed. Low-to-moderate TA levels (0.1-0.35%) increased the pancreatic index (P < 0.05) and enhanced systemic antioxidant capacity, as evidenced by elevated activities of glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and total antioxidant capacity. Notably,0.1% TA supplementation increased serum immunoglobulin (IgA, IgG, IgM) and complement (C3, C4) levels compared to the control (P< 0.05). Conversely, dietary supplementation with 0.5% TA significantly compromised feed efficiency, increasing the feed conversion ratio by 14.6% during the initial 14-day period (P < 0.01). Importantly, TA intervention induced a dose-responsive restructuring of the cecal microbiota, characterized by a significant decrease in the relative abundance of Proteobacteria (P< 0.05), a marked reduction in the potentially pathogenic genus Desulfovibrio (from 6.24% to 0.17-2.14%, P< 0.01), and a selective enrichment of beneficial taxa, including Succinispira andRuminococcus. Functional predictions indicated enhanced xenobiotic metabolism in the low-dose groups but stress-related dysregulation in the TAS0.5 group. Collectively, these results demonstrate that TA exhibits dose-dependent biphasic effects. Optimal inclusion levels (0.1-0.35%) enhance antioxidant capacity, immune function, and gut microbial symbiosis, whereas excessive supplementation (0.5%) induces metabolic dysregulation and microbiota dysbiosis. Overall, this study established a theoretical framework for strategically optimizing TA supplementation in poultry production systems to reconcile productivity and health outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41864699,
year = {2026},
author = {Graber, J and Saylor, J and Frapp, S and Jackson, A},
title = {Mentoring undergraduate nursing students in psychiatric mental health research: A pilot training initiative.},
journal = {Archives of psychiatric nursing},
volume = {60},
number = {},
pages = {152025},
doi = {10.1016/j.apnu.2025.152025},
pmid = {41864699},
issn = {1532-8228},
mesh = {Humans ; Pilot Projects ; *Psychiatric Nursing/education ; *Mentoring/methods ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/methods ; *Students, Nursing/psychology ; Female ; Male ; *Mentors ; Adult ; Peer Group ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Peer mentoring among various levels of nursing students can foster inclusivity and break down silos through psychiatric mental health research-driven projects. While mentorship as a teaching modality in undergraduate nursing education is not novel, a symbiotic relationship between mentor and mentee encourages professional and academic growth.

AIMS: This pilot study examined the efficacy of a mentoring training program (MTP) and mentoring competency of baccalaureate, honors nursing students to increase research process engagement in psychiatric-mental health nursing.

METHODS: Researchers used a cross-sectional design with a sample of freshman (n = 17) and junior (n = 10) undergraduate honors nursing students. Participants completed a revised 20-item Mentoring Competency Assessment (MCA) and 7 open-ended questions about the mentoring experience.

RESULTS: For each MCA item, most participants rated themselves and their mentor or mentee as possessing a high mentoring skill level, ranging from 4.50 (SD = 2.52) to 6.86 (SD = 0.35). There was no statistical difference found between mentors and mentees in mentoring competency, supporting the efficacy of the MTP. From the open-ended questions, researchers found four overarching themes: emergent leadership, bi-directional mentorship, adaptive communication, and fostering a legacy of support.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, students expressed positive feedback regarding the peer mentoring program. By implementing an MTP, nurse graduates are poised to transition into clinical practice successfully and have a deeper appreciation for psychiatric mental health nursing.},
}

Humans
Pilot Projects
*Psychiatric Nursing/education
*Mentoring/methods
Cross-Sectional Studies
*Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/methods
*Students, Nursing/psychology
Female
Male
*Mentors
Adult
Peer Group

@article {pmid41864875,
year = {2026},
author = {Saderi, SZ and Radjabian, T and Ganjeali, A and Abrishamchi, P},
title = {Mycorrhizal colonization enhances the growth and physiological traits of Melissa officinalis under drought stress and Fusarium culmorum infection.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12870-026-08601-y},
pmid = {41864875},
issn = {1471-2229},
}

@article {pmid41864978,
year = {2026},
author = {Vandenberghe, M and Marques, GM and Andersen, AC and Decker, C and Olu, K and Duperron, S and Gaudron, SM},
title = {A novel bioenergetic model outlines the metabolism of a deep-sea clam and that of its sulfur-oxidizing symbionts.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-41176-0},
pmid = {41864978},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {For the first time, two Dynamic Energy Budget (DEB) models were developed for a chemosymbiotic deep-sea vesicomyid clam. A classical DEB model was applied and then an innovative DEB model was developed (named "farming"). The models were parameterized using data on host and symbionts, including original unpublished data. In the farming model the digestion of the sulfur-oxidizing bacterial symbionts for host nutrition was explicitly modeled. Unexpected results were obtained regarding the dynamics of host and symbionts with this model: the host appears to forgo a maximal ingestion for a lower and stable ingestion, revealing a new kind of homeostasis. Moreover, when the clam is adult, most of the oxygen consumed by the chemosynthetic symbiosis was predicted to be by the symbionts. A high host energy maintenance flux was predicted and consistent with the likely high energy demand of host ion homeostasis mechanisms to cope with symbiont protons and sulfates release.},
}

@article {pmid41865437,
year = {2026},
author = {Qian, Y and Shi, J and Ren, M and Chen, H and Zhang, K and Liu, Z},
title = {The influence of static magnetic field on the removal of microplastics by bacterial-algal symbiotic system in simulated seawater.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {228},
number = {},
pages = {119593},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.119593},
pmid = {41865437},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {Plastic pollution, particularly microplastics (MPs), has emerged as a serious environmental issue, threatening ecological security and human health, especially in seawater where contamination levels are alarming. This study explores the feasibility of removing MPs from seawater using a bacterial-algal symbiotic system (BASS) under static magnetic field (SMF), while investigating the underlying mechanisms and the impact of MPs on the system. Results show that SMF of 150 mT significantly improves nutrient salts removal efficiency in BASS, with increases of 5%-10% for ammonia nitrogen, 10% for total phosphorus, and 5% for total carbon compared to non-magnetic conditions. The SMF also stimulates bacterial and algal growth. However, the accumulation of MPs exerted adverse effects on the system, with polyethylene (PE) exhibiting greater toxicity than polypropylene (PP). This accumulation significantly inhibited biomass growth and the simultaneous nitrification-denitrification process, leading to a relatively low total nitrogen removal efficiency of approximately 40%. High-throughput sequencing reveals Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota as dominant bacterial phyla, but MPs accumulation significantly reduces Bacteroidota abundance, impacting denitrification. Notably, the SMF enhances the abundance of nitrogen-removing genera like Xanthomarina and Marinobacter. The adsorption efficiency of the BASS toward MPs correlates positively with the secretion levels of extracellular polymeric substances. Experimental findings indicate that MPs removal involves both adsorption and fragmentation, with adsorption rates ranging from 7.5% to 40.7% and fragmentation rates from 3.8% to 16.9%. Elevated cumulative concentrations of MPs (exceeding 1.5 g/L) can lead to destabilization of the BASS system.},
}

@article {pmid41865823,
year = {2026},
author = {Lu, ZY and Cui, YW and Mi, YN and Gu, XY and Yang, RC and Su, MX and Li, JY},
title = {Salinity decrease leads to recovery of filamentous bacterial bulking in moderately halophilic aerobic granules: Unraveling the role of fungi.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134443},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134443},
pmid = {41865823},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Moderately halophilic aerobic granular sludge (M-HAGS) is an effective solution for treating ultra-high-salinity wastewater (≥ 50 g/L). In this study, filamentous bacterial bulking was observed for the first time. When influent salinity was reduced from 100 to 30 g/L, filamentous bacterial bulking in M-HAGS was recovered. The stable M-HAGS structure was maintained even after salinity was restored to 150 g/L. This study revealed the mechanism of granule bulking and recovery. The results indicated that at high salinity (≥ 100 g/L) a symbiotic relationship existed between filamentous bacteria and Halolactibacillus sp. within the bulking granules. Filamentous bacteria could feed on lactate and consume dissolved oxygen of granule surface, enabling in an anaerobic environment in the core of M-HAGS. When salinity was decreased from 100 to 30 g/L, the fungal population increased by 350-fold due to its low-salinity adaptation. Fungal hyphae penetrated the granules and formed oxygen-transport channels into the granule core, which disrupted the anaerobic habitat of Halolactibacillus sp. In addition, low salinity promoted the growth of Paracoccus sp., which secreted polysaccharide to promote granule adhesion. When salinity increased to 150 g/L, fungal overgrowth was limited by salinity inhibition, avoiding occurrence of fungal bulking. This study advances fundamental understanding of filamentous bacterial bulking and provides a feasible strategy for recovering disintegrated M-HAGS.},
}

@article {pmid41866241,
year = {2026},
author = {Chauhan, S and Kumari, P and Deepa, N and Chanotiya, J and Trivedi, PK and Singh, A},
title = {Proteomic insights into plant-endophyte interactions: advancing understanding of mutualistic symbiosis and plant resilience.},
journal = {Critical reviews in biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-20},
doi = {10.1080/07388551.2026.2618190},
pmid = {41866241},
issn = {1549-7801},
abstract = {Endophytic microorganisms are a vital part of the plant microbiome, contributing significantly to the plant's growth, development, and stress tolerance. Proteomics investigations have significantly enhanced our comprehension of the interactions between plants and endophytes, illuminating the complex molecular mechanisms that govern these mutually beneficial relationships. The review aims to integrate the latest developments in proteomic research concerning endophyte-plant interactions, emphasizing on elucidating the molecular mechanisms that underlie the benefit imparted to the host plant by the symbionts. The special focus of the review is to discuss the proteome level changes happening at the early recognition events, primary and secondary metabolism, signaling pathways, and defense mechanisms. By underscoring critical proteomic signatures, the review aspires to offer insights into how these interactions enhance plant health, increase stress resilience, and promote overall growth. The article discusses the potential applications of proteomics in agriculture and environmental sciences, emphasizing its role in crop resilience against biotic and abiotic stresses, optimizing biocontrol strategies, and improving nutrient use efficiency. The article also highlights that despite the advancements, critical gaps persist including the necessity for a deeper understanding of the temporal dynamics of proteomic responses, the specificity of protein-protein interactions, and the influence of environmental factors on the proteome induced by the endophytes. The review concludes by proposing future directions for proteomics research in plant-endophyte interactions for developing a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate molecular dialogues for developing a more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.},
}

@article {pmid41863048,
year = {2026},
author = {Sethu Madhavan, A and Müller, LM},
title = {Balancing mutualism: choice and sanctions in root-microbe symbioses.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71107},
pmid = {41863048},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {2022-67013-42820//National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; },
abstract = {Plant roots form symbioses with beneficial microorganisms to enhance nutrient acquisition. Most terrestrial plants form arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis (AMS) with obligate biotrophic Glomeromycotina fungi, which supply hosts with mineral nutrients in exchange for carbon through specialized symbiotic hyphal structures (arbuscules) that develop within root cortex cells. Legumes form root nodule symbiosis (RNS) with nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, which are housed as differentiated bacteroids within specialized symbiotic organs (nodules) and provide plants with ammonia in return for carbon. RNS exhibits high partner specificity, occurring only between compatible hosts and microbes. Conversely, AMS is less specific, although symbiosis outcomes are context-dependent and influenced by host and fungal genotype, environmental conditions, and microbial competition. In both cases, plants favor high-performing microsymbionts by recognizing them during symbiosis initiation or by punishing low-performing symbionts through postcolonization sanctions. Microbes, in turn, employ strategies to manipulate plants for their own benefit. Here, we review the molecular mechanisms underlying partner preference in beneficial plant-microbe interactions and discuss how host partner selection strategies maintain mutualistic stability in AMS and RNS, alongside microbial strategies to evade host control. Understanding the dynamic interplay of functionally diverse plant-microbe symbioses provides a basis for improving mutualisms in both natural and agricultural systems.},
}

@article {pmid41857304,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Z and Xu, M and Yao, J and Yu, Y and Hu, B and Wang, Y and Wang, Y and Zhang, X},
title = {Review of electroencephalography and electromyography research in robotics: opportunities and challenges.},
journal = {Visual computing for industry, biomedicine, and art},
volume = {9},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41857304},
issn = {2524-4442},
support = {62072388//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024HZ01040037//Fujian Provincial Science and Technology Major Project/ ; 20244BAB28039//Jiangxi Provincial Natural Science Foundation Key Project/ ; 3502Z20231043//Xiamen Public Technology Service Platform/ ; },
abstract = {In the evolving nexus of neuroscience and robotics, the symbiotic fusion of electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) is emerging as a paradigm-shifting avenue for enhancing human-machine interfaces. While EEG, which captures the subtle electrical nuances of the brain, offers a potent channel for nuanced brain-machine communication, EMG serves as a bridge, converting neuromuscular intentions into actionable directives for robotic apparatuses. This review highlights the current methodologies in which EEG and EMG not only function in silos but also converge harmoniously to dictate robotic control. By delving deeper into this, the intricate synergy between cognitive processes, muscular responses, and machine actions can be unraveled. Subsequently, the discourse also navigates through the myriad challenges encountered in realizing real-time, seamless integration of these bio-signals with robotics and the innovative solutions poised to address them. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between neuroscience and robotics. This insight will help drive breakthroughs in adaptive human-machine collaboration.},
}

@article {pmid41857631,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, C and Zheng, Z and Lucas, JR and Li, A and Feng, J and Zhang, C and Jiang, T},
title = {Geographical variation of chemical signals and odor discrimination in the great Himalayan leaf-nosed bat (Hipposideros armiger).},
journal = {BMC biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12915-026-02576-w},
pmid = {41857631},
issn = {1741-7007},
support = {32300392//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32400377//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32371562//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023M730913//Postdoctoral Research Foundation of China/ ; C2023205010//Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province/ ; C2023205017//Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province/ ; BJ2025044//Science Research Project of Hebei Education Department/ ; C20230345//Hebei Province to introduce overseas students funding project/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Signal divergence and sensory preferences may cause reproductive isolation and eventually speciation between animal populations. These patterns are particularly well known in systems with acoustic or visual signals. However, relatively few studies have quantified the patterns, causes and consequences of geographical variation of chemical signals, especially in mammalian populations.

RESULTS: We examined Hipposideros armiger (the great Himalayan leaf-nosed bat) and collected secretions from the forehead glands of males. We selected nine colonies across a large geographic area and investigated both the potential causes and patterns of variation in chemical signals from that gland between these colonies. We also examined whether or not males could tell the difference between gland scents from a foreign colony and their own colony using habituation-discrimination tests. To determine whether females preferred the scent of local versus foreign males, we performed two-choice tests. Overall, we found significant colony-level differences in the concentrations of compounds and in general compound categories. We show that symbiotic microbes inhabiting odor glands may explain the observed chemical variation between colonies. Moreover, behavioral studies indicated that males were able to discriminate between gland scents from their own colony and those from a distant colony. Finally, females were more attracted to scents of local males from their own colony compared to scents from foreign colonies.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate significant geographical variation in colony chemical signals linked to gland symbiotic microbes, with males discriminating colony-specific scents and females preferring the gland scents of local males. This study expands our limited knowledge of geographical variation of mammalian chemical signals and highlights the importance of bacterial communities in shaping chemical divergence.},
}

@article {pmid41858307,
year = {2026},
author = {Luu, CX and Geddes, BA},
title = {Engineering and Evaluation of Sinorhizobium meliloti Nodulation (nod) Gene Reporter Systems in Rhizobia and Non-Rhizobia.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {28},
number = {3},
pages = {e70284},
doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.70284},
pmid = {41858307},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {FF-NIA21-0000000061//New Innovator in Food & Agricultural Research (FFAR)/ ; //Richard and Linda Offerdahl Faculty Fellowship/ ; },
mesh = {*Sinorhizobium meliloti/genetics/metabolism ; Nitrogen Fixation ; *Genes, Reporter ; Symbiosis ; Plant Root Nodulation/genetics ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology ; Promoter Regions, Genetic ; Genetic Engineering ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Rhizobium/genetics ; },
abstract = {Developing N2-fixing partnerships between diazotrophs and non-legumes can enhance soil fertility and reduce dependence on synthetic fertilisers. Unlike legumes, non-legumes lack the genetic ability to form root nodule symbiosis with rhizobia but can form facultative associations with free-living diazotrophs. Engineering these microbes by transferring key traits underlying efficient nodule formation and N2-fixation from well-characterised rhizobia represents a central aim in synthetic biology to enhance biological nitrogen fixation in non-legumes. However, the lack of effective tools for identifying compatible and engineerable microbial partners is a key challenge. To address this, we have developed nodulation (nod) gene reporters to screen both rhizobia and non-rhizobia capable of expressing Sinorhizobium meliloti nod genes, which encode bacterial signals initiating nodule formation in legumes. The biosensors include a superfolder GFP reporter controlled by the inducible nod box promoter (PnodA), plant signal-dependent activators nodD1 and nodD2, and a constitutively mScarlet-I marker, named nodD1-PnodA and nodD2-PnodA. Their functionality was validated across diverse rhizobia and non-rhizobia using in vitro and in planta induction assays. This reporter system enables high-throughput identification of novel bacteria capable of recognising and responding to legume signalling molecules that coordinate symbiotic nitrogen fixation.},
}

*Sinorhizobium meliloti/genetics/metabolism
Nitrogen Fixation
*Genes, Reporter
Symbiosis
Plant Root Nodulation/genetics
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology
Promoter Regions, Genetic
Genetic Engineering
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Rhizobium/genetics

@article {pmid41858674,
year = {2026},
author = {Zholdasbek, A and Tekebayeva, Z and Kulzhanova, K and Abzhalelov, A and Bekshin, Z and Yevneyeva, D and Saylau, M and Li, X and Tan, Z and Wang, Z and Temirkhanov, A and Nurbekova, Z},
title = {Microbiome and plant relationship: a symbiosis against phytopathogens.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1722279},
pmid = {41858674},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Phytopathogens are among the major biotic stressors limiting global crop productivity. Conventional control methods, including chemical pesticides and fungicides, have contributed to pathogen resistance, environmental pollution, and soil degradation, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. This review highlights innovative, eco-friendly strategies that exploit plant-microbe interactions to enhance plant health and resilience across diverse agroecosystems. Rhizosphere-, phyllosphere-, and endosphere-associated microbial assemblages contribute to plant immune enhancement through induced systemic resistance, competitive nutrient exclusion, antimicrobial metabolite production, and mycoparasitism. The review emphasizes the functional roles of beneficial microbial communities and the emerging applications of synthetic consortia and bio-organic fertilizers to improving disease suppression, nutrient use efficiency, and soil fertility. In addition, recent progress in omics-based tools and microbial formulation technologies is discussed as a key driver for translating laboratory findings into practical field applications. However, large-scale implementation remains challenged by high research costs, limited metagenomic infrastructure, and the lack of standardized microbial formulations across environments. Strengthening institutional capacity, integrating omics-based tools, and improving technology transfer will be essential to unlock the full potential of microbiome-based pathogen control. Overall, this review highlights microbiome-based interventions as a sustainable alternative to chemical-intensive plant protection strategies under changing environmental conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41859449,
year = {2026},
author = {Han, Y and Huang, H and Zhang, Z and Li, X and Li, T and Zong, S},
title = {Microbiome and metabolome dynamics in phloem and rhizosphere of Pinus tabuliformis against Dendroctonus valens infestation.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1754801},
pmid = {41859449},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Microbial communities play essential roles in mediating plant defenses against insect pests. However, how host-associated microbiota and metabolites jointly respond to bark beetle infestation remains largely unexplored. Here, we integrated microbiome and metabolome profiling to elucidate how Pinus tabuliformis regulates its phloem and rhizosphere responses under varying levels of Dendroctonus valens infestation. Both bacterial and fungal diversity, as well as the relative abundance of dominant taxa such as Erwinia and Pseudoxanthomonas, shifted significantly with infestation intensity. Concurrently, key plant defense metabolites-including terpenoids, jasmonates, and polyphenols-were markedly elevated. Pathway enrichment analysis indicated that the phloem was characterized by enhanced phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis, whereas the rhizosphere soil accumulated terpenoids and polyketides, implicating both compartments in resistance modulation. In the phloem, differential bacterial and fungal taxa displayed distinct positive and negative correlations with phenylpropanoid intermediates and downstream derivatives, while in the rhizosphere, bacteria from Bacillota and fungi such as Candida and Ogataea were strongly linked to diterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, flavonoids, and indole derivatives. These findings demonstrate that P. tabuliformis mounts a compartment-specific, microbiome-associated metabolic response to D. valens infestation, providing new insights into the ecological roles of symbiotic microbiota in plant defense and offering a mechanistic foundation for microbe-based pest management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41859893,
year = {2026},
author = {Mugambi, K and Oliveira, J and Magurno, F and di Fossalunga, AS and Novero, M and Lanfranco, L and Ghignone, S and Yildirir, G and Wang, Y and Bonfante, P and Corradi, N},
title = {The 3D genome of Gigaspora margarita unveils stable chromatin and nucleolar organization and symbiont-dependent genome dynamics.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71100},
pmid = {41859893},
issn = {1469-8137},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are widespread plant symbionts that enhance nutrient acquisition and influence ecosystem productivity. Previous chromosome-level assemblies of the model species Rhizophagus irregularis revealed a two-compartment genome architecture (active A and repressed B chromatin compartments), yet its conservation across evolutionarily distant AMF lineages remains unresolved. Here, we present a chromosome-scale and 3D genome assembly of Gigaspora margarita isolate BEG34 - the largest and most repeat-rich AMF genome to date - alongside that of its obligate endobacterium, Candidatus Glomerobacter gigasporarum (CaGg), using PacBio HiFi and Hi-C sequencing. The G. margarita genome comprises 43 chromosomes (792 Mb) organized into A/B compartments and Topologically Associating Domains, structures that are conserved across two AMF orders and remain stable irrespective of the presence of endobacteria in germinating spores. We uncover 21 divergent rDNA operons distributed across six chromosomes and show that these physically interact, suggesting conserved nucleolar organization. We also reveal that the CaGg genome is tripartite and mobilome-rich, encoding prophages, an orphan CRISPR array, and complete pathways for many novel and essential cofactors, including heme, which may enhance host bioenergetics. We also find that the endobacterium's presence modulates transposable elements expression in G. margarita. These findings reveal conserved principles of chromatin architecture in AMF symbionts and highlight the tight molecular interplay between fungal hosts and their endosymbionts, offering new insights into genome evolution and symbiotic adaptation.},
}

@article {pmid41859969,
year = {2026},
author = {El-Beltagi, HS and Gad, M and Khedr, N and Abdel-Haleem, M and Al Saikhan, MS and Shalaby, TA and El-Mogy, MM and Khedr, EH},
title = {Strigolactones as Integrative Regulators of Plant Adaptation and Resilience to Abiotic Stress.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70490},
pmid = {41859969},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {KFU254323//Deanship of Scientific Research, Vice Presidency for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia/ ; },
abstract = {Climate change represents a major global challenge, intensifying abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity and temperature extremes, that severely constrain productivity and threaten food security. To survive under such fluctuating and adverse environments, plants depend on intricate hormonal signalling networks that coordinate growth regulation, resource allocation and stress adaptation. Among these, strigolactones (SLs) have emerged as integrative regulators that bridge developmental control with environmental responsiveness, thereby enhancing plant resilience to climate-induced stresses. Initially discovered as rhizospheric signals influencing parasitic weed germination and symbiotic associations, SLs are now recognized as multifunctional phytohormones regulating shoot branching, root system architecture, senescence and reproductive growth. SLs encounter in extensive crosstalk with other hormones notably abscisic acid, auxins and cytokinins to modulate physiological and molecular responses under stress. This review consolidates recent advances in understanding the role of SLs as central mediators of plant adaptation to climate-induced abiotic stresses, emphasizing their integrative signalling roles and interactions with other phytohormones. It also explores emerging molecular, genetic and biotechnological strategies targeting SL pathways for enhancing stress resilience. Unravelling the complex SL signalling network delivers key conceptual inputs for providing climate-smart crops capable of sustaining productivity and stability under the increasing pressures of global climate change.},
}

@article {pmid41859980,
year = {2026},
author = {Akebota, N and Ma, RF and Yang, HQ and Li, YD and He, K and Liu, HY and Tang, KY and Zhu, Y},
title = {Behavioral smearing and physiological secretions drive divergent microbiome assembly during breeding in the crested ibis.},
journal = {Zoological research},
volume = {47},
number = {2},
pages = {361-373},
doi = {10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2025.407},
pmid = {41859980},
issn = {2095-8137},
mesh = {Animals ; *Microbiota/physiology ; *Birds/physiology/microbiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Feathers/microbiology ; Seasons ; Reproduction/physiology ; Bacteria/classification/genetics ; },
abstract = {Host-microbiota interactions represent a key axis in animal adaptation, especially in species displaying pronounced seasonal variation in behavior and physiology. In avian species, behavioral processes associated with reproduction may influence symbiotic microbial communities, yet the underlying mechanisms remain poorly resolved. The endangered crested ibis (Nipponia nippon) exhibits a distinctive seasonal transition in plumage coloration, shifting from white in the non-breeding period to gray during breeding, a change linked to smearing behavior and deposition of black secretions from the neck region. In the present study, 16S rRNA sequencing across three body sites was performed to profile body surface microbiomes during breeding (gray-feather) and non-breeding (white-feather) stages. Breeding individuals exhibited lower microbial diversity, consistent with an influence of black neck secretions on microbiome structure. Microbial communities were differentiated more strongly by season than by body site, and microbial similarity among body sites increased during breeding, supporting redistribution of microbes through smearing behavior. Community assembly also showed clear season- and site-specific variation. Neck feathers exhibited a 36.5% better fit to the neutral model, indicating a stronger contribution of stochastic assembly, likely associated with microbial dispersal during smearing of black secretions. In contrast, neck skin showed a 36.3% lower neutrality and 11.87% more host-selected variants, indicating stronger deterministic selection associated with breeding-related secretions. These findings support a dual regulatory framework during breeding, in which behavioral smearing promotes microbial dispersal while physiological secretion strengthens host filtering. Such coordinated regulation likely drives seasonal microbiome variation and contributes to seasonal adaptation. Overall, this work provides novel insight into the integration of behavior and physiology in shaping host-microbiota interactions during critical life stages and establishes a microbiome-based perspective for crested ibis conservation.},
}

Animals
*Microbiota/physiology
*Birds/physiology/microbiology
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Feathers/microbiology
Seasons
Reproduction/physiology
Bacteria/classification/genetics

@article {pmid41861559,
year = {2026},
author = {Feng, Y and Zheng, R and Kong, L and Zhang, Z and Chen, B and Liu, S},
title = {Cross-feeding supports the growth of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria with reduced genomes during evolution.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {297},
number = {},
pages = {125714},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125714},
pmid = {41861559},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Bacteria usually lose redundant genes to reduce genome sizes during evolution to achieve high metabolic efficiency. Here, we combined molecular clock with flux balance analysis to propose that ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB), which are crucial for the global nitrogen cycle, have lost genes involved in essential metabolite biosynthesis during genome reduction and consequently rely on metabolic cross-feeding. A newly evolved ammonia-oxidizing bacteria originating in the Phanerozoic time with a genome size of 2.17 Mb lost genes necessary for synthetizing amino acids (asparagine and methionine, etc.), from the older AOB species originating in the Proterozoic time with genome sizes of 4.53 Mb. Symbiotic bacteria supplied these essential amino acids and dipeptides to newly evolved AOB to support their growth. Meanwhile, AOB degraded the absorbed dipeptides into amino acids or synthesized dipeptides from absorbed amino acids to trade with the symbiotic bacteria, establishing a strong mutually supportive relationship. Newly evolved AOB with reduced genomes in the Yangtze River absorb amino acids and dipeptides from other bacteria, resulting in a growth rate increase of 172.8% compared to those old AOB. This study hints the microbial division of labor becomes refined to improve metabolic efficiency during evolution and the roles of cross feedings in driving gene reduction.},
}

@article {pmid41861702,
year = {2026},
author = {Chaddad, Z and Kaddouri, K and Lamrabet, M and Alami, S and Mnasri, B and Wipf, D and Courty, PE and Missbah El Idrissi, M},
title = {Bradyrhizobium zaerense sp. nov., an efficient symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacterium isolated from Lupinus luteus and Retama dasycarpa root nodules.},
journal = {Systematic and applied microbiology},
volume = {49},
number = {3},
pages = {126712},
doi = {10.1016/j.syapm.2026.126712},
pmid = {41861702},
issn = {1618-0984},
abstract = {Three strains, LLZ isolated from root nodules of Lupinus luteus in agricultural soils in the vicinity of Rabat, and seven strains RDM, isolated from nodules of Retama dasycarpa in Maamora forest soil, were assigned to a new lineage within the genus Bradyrhizobium. The present study provides a detailed taxonomic analysis of the representative strain LLZ17[T]. Genome analysis revealed average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values far below the threshold (88.4% and 34%, respectively) with the closest type strains B. hipponense, B. rifense, and B. cytisi. Phylogenetic analyses using 81 up-to-date bacteria core genes and whole genome sequences grouped LLZ17[T] and RDM4 in a highly supported lineage, distinct from described Bradyrhizobium species. The complete genome of LLZ17[T] consists of a single 7.8 Mbp chromosome with a GC content of 63.19% and contains nitrogen fixation and nodulation genes required when forming root symbiosis. Furthermore, strains LLZ13, LLZ15, RDM4, RDM7, RDM9, RDM14, RDM15, RDM18, RDM30 and LLZ17[T] were described phenotypically and compared with their closest Bradyrhizobium-type strains. Genomic and phenotypic characterization confirmed the ten strains are novel species. Strain LLZ17[T] was designated as the type strain of this new species, for which the name Bradyrhizobium zaerense sp. nov. is proposed.},
}

@article {pmid41673866,
year = {2026},
author = {Alfattah, MA and Metwally, MGE and Alharbi, HM and Alwutayd, KM and Sindi, RA and Bahgat, LB and Naiel, MAE and El-Haroun, E and Abdelnour, SA and Moussa, M},
title = {Dictyota dichotoma extract as a potential nutraceutical for male fertility: insights into semen quality, testicular histology, immunomodulation, and anti-inflammatory markers in rabbit bucks.},
journal = {BMC veterinary research},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41673866},
issn = {1746-6148},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: This study investigated for the first time the potential symbiotic effects of using Dictyota dichotoma extract (DDE) to enhance reproductive health in bucks. The study examined semen quality, immune function, blood biochemistry, inflammatory markers, antioxidant status, testicular histology, and seminal plasma contents in rabbit bucks. A total of forty bucks (n = 10 in each group) were randomly allocated into four groups and fed a basal diet with 0, 100, 200, and 400 mg of DDE/kg diets for 3 months. The results indicated that DDE (200 mg/kg) treatment linearly enhanced sperm concentration, membrane function, motility, and viability (P < 0.01), while significantly reducing sperm abnormalities in a quadratic trend (P < 0.05). Serum concentrations of total glycerides and lactate dehydrogenase decreased linearly, while creatinine, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and urea levels exhibited a significant quadratic reduction (p < 0.01) in rabbits fed DDE-supplemented diets. Dietary DDE (200 or 400 mg/kg) inclusion linearly increased plasma SOD, GPX (quadratic effect, p < 0.01) and catalase activities, while quadratically decreased MDA levels (p < 0.01). Immunological parameters, including IgG and nitric oxide levels, exhibited a significant linear increase (p < 0.01) with the best dose 200 mg of DDE supplementation. Similarly, IgM levels and lysozyme activity were quadratically improved in groups fed DDE-fortified diets (p < 0.01). DDE supplementation (400 mg /kg) quadratically reduced capaspae-3 and IFN-γ (p < 0.01) and linearly decreased Bcl-2 (p < 0.01). In contrast, cytochrome C levels were quadratically enhanced across the DDE treatment groups (p < 0.01). DDE inclusion linearly improved seminal antioxidant activities SOD, and CAT and quadratically improved GPX (p < 0.01). Additionally, seminal plasma MDA levels were linearly reduced by DDE treatment (p < 0.01). In sperm cells, the activities of mitochondrial enzymes such as MDH (quadratic effect, p < 0.01) and SDH (linear effect, p < 0.001) were significantly improved in all DDE-supplemented groups compared to the control group. Histology, the DDE treatment enhanced the testicular integrity as evidenced by an increase in the numbers and diameters of seminiferous tubules (ST), as well as the heights of the germinal epithelium of ST (p < 0.05). Overall, dietary inclusion of DDE may have beneficial effects on the reproductive health of bucks by regulating sperm function, blood health, improving antioxidant and immune responses, and reducing inflammatory signaling.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-026-05307-z.},
}

@article {pmid41851401,
year = {2026},
author = {Ohmoto, H and Ferry, JG},
title = {The hydrogen, methane and ammonia biosphere on early Earth.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-43917-7},
pmid = {41851401},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {Current paradigms for the origin and evolutions of life and the environment on early Earth have been based on the premises that carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen gas (N2) were the principal constituents of the atmosphere and the sources of carbon and nitrogen for organisms today. Based on thermodynamic analyses of the redox state of the Hadean (4.56-4.0 Ga) mantle, the atmospheric compositions during the magma-ocean stage, and the effects of submarine hydrothermal fluids on the atmosphere of the ocean-covered Late-Hadean Earth, we suggest that life evolved sometime during 4.50-3.9 Ga under a reducing atmosphere, rich in hydrogen (H2), methane (CH4), and ammonia (NH3), but very poor in CO2, which was similar to today's atmosphere on Jupiter. The ocean water was alkaline (pH = 10 ± 1) and poor in Fe[2-] and S[2-]. CH4 and NH3 were the principal sources for carbon nitrogen and energy of the first organisms, greenhouse gases, and the UV shield on early Earth. The first organisms on Earth were possibly aerobic phototrophic methanotrophs, either oxygenic and/or anoxygenic. They evolved in micro-aerobic environments, which were created by the photodissociation of H2O on the surfaces of photocatalytic minerals (e.g., rutile (TiO2), pyrrhotite (FeS)) that accumulated in shallow water bodies on tropical islands. The enzymes for oxygenic Photosystem II (PSII) and PSI may also have evolved in the Late-Hadean microaerobic environments, facilitating the appearance of cyanobacteria. The symbiotic relationships between CO2-generating methanotrophs and the CH4-generating, H2-oxidizing methanogens and cyanobacteria characterized the first biosphere. Plate tectonics has played a key role in the transformation of the H2-CH4-NH3-rich to CO2-N2-rich atmosphere and biosphere by ~ 3.9 Ga because of the increased oxidation of the mantle, caused by the continuous subduction of the oxidized and hydrated oceanic crust into the mantle. Our study suggests that the search for life in the universe should be directed toward planets with a H2-CH4--NH3-rich atmosphere, as well as to those with a CO2-N2-rich atmosphere.},
}

@article {pmid41852102,
year = {2026},
author = {Qu, X and Liao, Y and Muthuri, CW and Winowiecki, LA and Zi, H and Zhang, Y and Li, X},
title = {Soil Functionality Undermined by Symbiotic Fungal Decline Following Forest Conversion.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {28},
number = {3},
pages = {e70268},
doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.70268},
pmid = {41852102},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {W2412011//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32430069//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; jxsq2023102214//Double Thousand Plan of Jiangxi Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Soil Microbiology ; *Forests ; *Symbiosis ; *Soil/chemistry ; *Fungi/genetics/classification/physiology ; China ; Phosphorus/metabolism ; Carbon/metabolism ; Nitrogen/metabolism ; Biodiversity ; Bacteria/genetics/classification ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {The conversion of native forests to other terrestrial ecosystems represents a profound form of land-use change, threatening aboveground biodiversity and biomass. However, its impact on soil ecological functions remains uncertain, particularly the regulatory role of soil microbial communities. To address this, we evaluated soil functionality related to carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycling by measuring nine enzyme activities in soils from native forests, plantations and croplands in subtropical China. Our results demonstrated a significant decline in soil functionality following the conversion of native forests, with the most pronounced reductions observed in croplands. This decline in soil functionality was strongly associated with a decrease in fungal richness but was independent of bacterial alpha-diversity. Specifically, the reduction in the abundance of symbiotic fungi, including key taxa such as Lactifluus and Tomentella, was identified as a primary driver of the functional impairment. Metagenomic analyses further confirmed that the loss of microbial functional genes was linked to the observed decline in soil functionality. Our findings underscore the critical role of key fungal taxa in maintaining soil processes and highlight the importance of their conservation and restoration to ensure ecosystem functionality in managed landscapes.},
}

*Soil Microbiology
*Forests
*Symbiosis
*Soil/chemistry
*Fungi/genetics/classification/physiology
China
Phosphorus/metabolism
Carbon/metabolism
Nitrogen/metabolism
Biodiversity
Bacteria/genetics/classification
Ecosystem

@article {pmid41852392,
year = {2025},
author = {Katula, AM and Johnson, NC and Chaudhary, VB and Afkhami, ME},
title = {Multilevel selection theory informs context-dependent mycorrhizal functioning.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {4},
number = {},
pages = {1676639},
pmid = {41852392},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi form widespread, ancient, and critically important symbioses with plants, but their functioning and beneficial effects are highly context-dependent. This variability stems from eco-evolutionary dynamics operating across multiple levels of biological organization (e.g., genes to holobionts), making generalizable predictions about mycorrhizal outcomes challenging. Multilevel selection theory (MLST), which posits that selection acts simultaneously on multiple levels of biological organization including in opposite directions, can serve as a powerful framework for interpreting this variability in mycorrhizal functional phenotypes. Here, we outline the key principles of MLST and explore how its application to AM fungal symbioses can improve our understanding of this ubiquitous symbiosis. We highlight how four levels of biological organization important to AM symbioses - genes, nuclei, spores, and holobionts - can serve as one or more units of selection under a tripartite framework for the units of selection. We then examine how ecological contexts, such as stress, spatial structure, and community composition, can modulate the balance of selective forces across levels, ultimately shaping the degree of cooperation among symbiotic partners. We conclude by proposing future research directions using MLST to generate deeper insights into the complexity and adaptability of this globally important symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid41852814,
year = {2022},
author = {Jagadeeshwari, U and Sasikala, C and Rai, A and Indu, B and Ipsita, S and Ramana, CV},
title = {Characterization of metagenome-assembled genomes of two endo-archaea of Candida tropicalis.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {1},
number = {},
pages = {1020341},
pmid = {41852814},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Host-microbe interactions are pivotal in host biology, ecology, and evolution. Recent developments in sequencing technologies have provided newer insights into the same through the hologenome concept.

METHODS: We report here the study on metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) associated with Candida tropicalis (studied through shotgun metagenome sequencing), adding to the knowledge about endomicrobiomes of yeast. De novo assembly and binning recovered two partial archaeal genomes, taxonomically belonging to the phylum Asgardarchaeota.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The phylogenomic analysis based on the core genes revealed that both the binned genomes cladded separately with the less studied and uncultivated 'Candidatus' superphylum, designated as Asgard archaea (the nearest known relative of eukaryotes). Between the two binned genomes, the average nucleotide index (ANI) was 71.2%. The average nucleotide identities (ANI) of the two binned genomes with 'Candidatus Heimdallarchaeota' were 60.4-61.2%. The metabolic pathways of both the binned genomes predicted genes belonging to sulfur reduction, Kreb's pathway, glycolysis, and C1 carbon metabolism. Further, both the binned genomes were predicted to support autotrophic as well as the heterotrophic mode of growth, which might probably help the host in its nutritional requirements also. Further, the genomes showed few eukaryotic signature proteins (ESPs) and SNARE proteins indicating that members of Asgardarchaeota are the closest relatives of eukaryotes. The gaps present in the metabolic potential of the MAGs obtained and the absence of a few essential pathways shows that they are probably in a symbiotic relationship with the host. The present study, reports for the first-time endosymbiosis of Asgard archaea with yeast. It also provides insights into the metabolic potential, ecology, evolutionary history, and endosymbiotic nature of the important but 160 poorly studied Asgard archaea.},
}

@article {pmid41852847,
year = {2026},
author = {Virág, E and Zombori, Z and Hegedűs, G and Ferenc, G and Dudits, D and Posta, K},
title = {Illumina RNA-seq data of Genotype-specific responses of maize plants to Funneliformis mosseae.},
journal = {Data in brief},
volume = {65},
number = {},
pages = {112611},
pmid = {41852847},
issn = {2352-3409},
abstract = {This article presents a publicly available RNA sequencing dataset generated to characterize transcriptomic responses of maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) colonization under contrasting water availability conditions. The dataset underpins a controlled greenhouse experiment involving two maize inbred lines with contrasting drought responses (K1, drought-tolerant; K2, drought-sensitive) and their hybrid (KH), grown under well-watered (60% soil moisture content) and drought-stressed (30% soil moisture content) conditions, with or without inoculation with Funneliformis mosseae (F. mosseae, BEG12). Plants were cultivated in an automated phenotyping system that enabled precise irrigation control and non-destructive monitoring of shoot and root development. AMF inoculation was applied at planting, and mycorrhizal colonization was confirmed microscopically before tissue sampling. Leaf samples were collected at identical developmental stages from three biological replicates per genotype × treatment combination and immediately frozen for RNA isolation. Total RNA was extracted using a column-based purification protocol, and RNA quality and integrity were assessed prior to sequencing library preparation. Gene expression libraries were constructed using the QuantSeq 3' mRNA-Seq Library Prep Kit (Lexogen), which enables strand-specific, 3'-end-focused transcript quantification. Libraries were sequenced on an Illumina NovaSeq X Plus platform using single-end 75 bp reads, generating approximately 22-24 million reads per library. The complete set of raw RNA-seq reads and associated metadata has been deposited in the NCBI Sequence Read Archive (SRA) under BioProject accession PRJNA1267826, providing unrestricted public access to the dataset. This dataset enables reuse for a broad range of transcriptomic applications, including differential gene expression analysis, gene set enrichment analysis, hormone- and stress-related pathway exploration, and comparative analyses across maize genotypes, water regimes, or symbiotic conditions. The data can also support integrative studies combining transcriptomic profiles with phenotypic or physiological measurements, as well as meta-analyses of plant-microbe interactions and drought-related transcriptional responses in cereal crops.},
}

@article {pmid41853367,
year = {2023},
author = {Smith, SN and Watters, JL and Siler, CD},
title = {Host ecology drives frog skin microbiome diversity across ecotone in South-Central North America.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {2},
number = {},
pages = {1286985},
pmid = {41853367},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {Anurans (frogs and toads) are an ecologically diverse group of vertebrate organisms that display a myriad of reproductive modes and life history traits. To persist in such an expansive array of habitats, these organisms have evolved specialized skin that is used for respiration while also protecting against moisture loss, pathogens, and environmental contaminants. Anuran skin is also colonized by communities of symbiotic microorganisms, and these skin microbiota serve critical roles in numerous processes associated with anuran host health and persistence such as pathogen resistance and immunity. However, gaps remain in our understanding of the environmental and evolutionary processes that shape frog skin microbial communities. Here, we combined existing anuran disease data with 16S rRNA skin microbial inventories to elucidate the roles that geographic location, host evolutionary history, host ecology, and pathogen presence play in the microbial community assemblage of five co-distributed frog host species in Oklahoma. These focal species possess distinct ecological preferences: aquatic, semi-aquatic, and arboreal, and our results indicate that host ecology is the primary driver of frog skin microbial community structure. Additionally, compositional differences were observed among select host species based on geographic location, but this was not consistent among all five frog species. We did not find evidence of phylogenetic signal among our samples and results from the Classification and Regression Tree Analysis revealed that the presence of the amphibian pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and the severity of infection were not drivers of skin microbiome differences among our focal host species. Results from this comparative study contribute to our growing understanding of the environmental and host-associated drivers of skin microbial community assemblage and represents one of the first studies on landscape-level variation in skin microbial communities among North American frogs.},
}

@article {pmid41853379,
year = {2023},
author = {Mulinge, MM and Mwanza, SS and Kabahweza, HM and Wamalwa, DC and Nduati, RW},
title = {The impact of neonatal intensive care unit antibiotics on gut bacterial microbiota of preterm infants: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {2},
number = {},
pages = {1180565},
pmid = {41853379},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {Preterm infants encounter an unnatural beginning to life, with housing in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) where they are exposed to antibiotics. Although the effectiveness of antibiotics in infection control is well established, the short- and long-term unintended effects on the microbiota of preterm infants receiving antibiotic treatment are yet to be quantified. Our aim was to investigate the unintended consequences of NICU antibiotics on preterm infants' gut microbiota. We searched three electronic databases-Embase, PubMed, and Scopus-for records from 2010 to October 2022. Eligibility criteria included intervention and observational studies that collected stool samples and analyzed microbiota data on the effect of antibiotics on the gut microbiota of preterm infants using 16S rRNA sequencing. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and the quality of the studies was judged using the Cochrane Collaboration Tool for assessing risk of bias (RoB2) for clinical trials, while non-randomized studies were assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The initial searches yielded 7,605 papers, of which 21 were included in the review. The selected studies examined 3,669 stool samples that were collected longitudinally from 878 preterm infants in seven different countries. Preterm infants exposed to antibiotics had a reduced bacterial diversity, an increased relative abundance of pathogenic bacteria such as Enterobacteriaceae, and a decrease or absence of symbiotic bacteria such as Bifidobacterium spp., which have been shown to assist in immunity development. Antibiotic discontinuation restored diversity, with variances linked to the antibiotic spectrum and treatment duration in some but not all cases. Breastfeeding confounded the association between antibiotic use and dysbiosis. Intriguingly, the reduction of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a crucial neurotransmitter for early brain development, was linked to the depletion of Veillonella spp. Despite the apparent benefits of using antibiotics on preterm infants, we conclude that they should be used only when absolutely necessary and for a short period of time. Mothers' milk is recommended to hasten the restoration of disrupted microbiota.},
}

@article {pmid41853516,
year = {2024},
author = {Ilangumaran, G and Subramanian, S and Smith, DL},
title = {Complete genome sequences of Rhizobium sp. strain SL42 and Hydrogenophaga sp. strain SL48, microsymbionts of Amphicarpaea bracteata.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {3},
number = {},
pages = {1309947},
pmid = {41853516},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {This study comprehensively analyzed two distinct rhizobacterial strains, Rhizobium sp. SL42 and Hydrogenophaga sp. SL48, through whole genome de novo sequencing. Isolated from root nodules of Amphicarpaea bracteata, a native legume related to soybean, they were selected to explore beneficial rhizobacteria from native plant relatives. Utilizing Illumina and Nanopore sequencers and MaSuRCA assembly, their complete genetic information was elucidated. Rhizobium sp. SL42 has a 4.06 Mbp circular chromosome and two plasmids with 60% GC content, while Hydrogenophaga sp. SL48 exhibits a 5.43 Mbp circular chromosome with 65% GC content. Genetic analysis identified them as new species, supported by ANI values (77.72% for SL42 and 83.39% for SL48) below the threshold. The genomic analysis unraveled a plethora of genes encoding diverse metabolic functions, secretion systems for substance transport, quorum sensing for coordination, and biosynthetic gene clusters suggesting the production of bioactive compounds. These functional properties contribute to plant growth stimulation, reflecting the symbiotic relationship of rhizobacteria with plants, potentially involving nitrogen fixation and growth-promoting compounds. This research contributes valuable knowledge about plant-microbe interactions and plant growth promotion by these two strains of rhizobacteria.},
}

@article {pmid41853532,
year = {2024},
author = {Wei, Y and Zhou, C},
title = {Bacteriophages: a double-edged sword in the gastrointestinal tract.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {3},
number = {},
pages = {1450523},
pmid = {41853532},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {The symbiotic relationship between the gut microbiome and the human body is a concept that has grown in popularity in recent years. Bacteriophages (phages) are components of the gut microbiota and their imbalance plays a role in the pathogenesis of numerous intestinal disorders. Meanwhile, as a new antimicrobial agent, phage therapy (PT) offers unique advantages when compared with antibiotics and brings a new dawn for treatment of multidrug-resistant bacteria in intestinal and extraintestinal disorders. In this review, we provide a brief introduction to the characterization of phages, particularly focusing on newly discovered phages. Additionally, we outline the involvement of gut phages in disease pathogenesis and discuss the status and challenges of utilizing phages as therapeutic targets for treatment of enteric infection.},
}

@article {pmid41853536,
year = {2024},
author = {Markovchick, LM and Belgara-Andrew, A and Richard, D and Deringer, T and Grady, KC and Hultine, KR and Allan, GJ and Whitham, TG and Querejeta, JI and Gehring, CA},
title = {Utilizing symbiotic relationships and assisted migration in restoration to cope with multiple stressors, and the legacy of invasive species.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {3},
number = {},
pages = {1331341},
pmid = {41853536},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Climate change has increased the need for forest restoration, but low planting success and limited availability of planting materials hamper these efforts. Invasive plants and their soil legacies can further reduce restoration success. Thus, strategies that optimize restoration are crucial. Assisted migration and inoculation with native microbial symbiont communities have great potential to increase restoration success. However, assisted migrants can still show reduced survival compared to local provenances depending on transfer distance. Inoculation with mycorrhizal fungi, effective if well-matched to plants and site conditions, can have neutral to negative results with poor pairings. Few studies have examined the interaction between these two strategies in realistic field environments where native plants experience the combined effects of soil legacies left by invasive plants and the drought conditions that result from a warming, drying climate.

METHODS: We planted two ecotypes (local climate and warmer climate) of Populus fremontii (Fremont cottonwoods), in soils with and without legacies of invasion by Tamarix spp. (tamarisk), and with and without addition of native mycorrhizal fungi and other soil biota from the warmer climate.

RESULTS: Four main results emerged. 1) First year survival in soil legacies left behind after tamarisk invasion and removal was less than one tenth of survival in soil without a tamarisk legacy. 2) Actively restoring soil communities after tamarisk removal tripled first year cottonwood survival for both ecotypes, but only improved survival of the warmer, assisted migrant ecotype trees in year two. 3) Actively restoring soil communities in areas without a tamarisk history reduced first year survival for both ecotypes, but improved survival of the warmer, assisted migrant ecotype trees in year two. 4) By the second year, inoculated assisted migrants survived at five times the rate of inoculated trees from the local ecotype.

DISCUSSION: Results emphasize the detrimental effects of soil legacies left after tamarisk invasion and removal, the efficacy of assisted migration and restoring soil communities alongside plants, and the need to thoughtfully optimize pairings between plants, fungi, and site conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41853715,
year = {2026},
author = {Ham, JH and Swingle, B and Pettis, GS},
title = {Editorial: Microbial interactions across species: shaping pathogenesis, symbiosis, and ecosystem dynamics.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1810035},
doi = {10.3389/fmicb.2026.1810035},
pmid = {41853715},
issn = {1664-302X},
}

@article {pmid41854163,
year = {2026},
author = {Poluzerov, SA and Dmitrovskaya, SV and Shipunova, AE},
title = {Identification of Three Species in Acanthocystis turfacea Carter 1863 Species Complex, and Notes on Its Symbiosis With Algae.},
journal = {The Journal of eukaryotic microbiology},
volume = {73},
number = {2},
pages = {e70075},
doi = {10.1111/jeu.70075},
pmid = {41854163},
issn = {1550-7408},
support = {24-74-10031//Russian Science Foundation/ ; //Saint Petersburg State University/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics/chemistry ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics/chemistry ; *Chlorophyta/physiology ; },
abstract = {Relatively large Acanthocystis turfacea Carter 1863 are the type species of the centrohelid genus Acanthocystis Carter 1863, characterized by bifurcated spine scales. In this study, several isolates and strains identified as A. turfacea are re-evaluated based on morphological, morphometric, and molecular evidence. The Len strain corresponds to A. turfacea sensu stricto, while the Luga and Kos isolates, previously considered A. turfacea paucilituatus Nicholls 2023, are elevated to species level as Acanthocystis paucilituatus n. stat. A distinct Sin strain, with a smaller cell diameter and lacking symbiotic algae, is described here as a new species, Acanthocystis ladogensis n. sp. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on 18S rRNA gene sequences confirms that these taxa form a well-supported clade within the genus Acanthocystis, and supports the hypothesis that bifurcations at the distal ends of spine scales represent an ancestral feature. Observations under long-term culture demonstrate that A. turfacea maintains a stable symbiotic association with symbiotic algae. The taxonomic status of the A. turfacea species complex and correlations between molecular and structural data are discussed.},
}

*Symbiosis
Phylogeny
RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
Molecular Sequence Data
Sequence Analysis, DNA
DNA, Protozoan/genetics/chemistry
DNA, Ribosomal/genetics/chemistry
*Chlorophyta/physiology

@article {pmid41855522,
year = {2026},
author = {West, SA and Dewar, AE and Iritani, R and Belcher, LJ and Griffin, AS},
title = {The Evolutionary and Ecological Consequences of Cooperation.},
journal = {The American naturalist},
volume = {207},
number = {4},
pages = {467-482},
doi = {10.1086/739292},
pmid = {41855522},
issn = {1537-5323},
mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Animals ; *Cooperative Behavior ; *Ecosystem ; Insecta ; Birds ; },
abstract = {AbstractThe last 30 years have seen major advances in our understanding of the evolution of cooperation-traits that have evolved because of the benefit they provide other individuals. In contrast, we have been much less successful in determining the consequences of cooperation for long-term ecological and evolutionary change. Studies of birds, insects, and bacteria suggest that cooperation has major consequences for fundamental features of life, such as ecological niche range, genetic variation within species, and rates of species diversification. However, the role of cooperation in driving these changes is largely limited to hypotheses, as we lack both data and a general theoretical framework. We synthesize the progress that has been made and highlight the major gaps in our understanding for future study.},
}

*Biological Evolution
Animals
*Cooperative Behavior
*Ecosystem
Insecta
Birds

@article {pmid41844645,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Q and Jing, L and Duan, F and Sun, Y and Wang, W and Xu, B and Hua, D and Zhang, J and Shen, Z and Zhou, W and Luan, J and Liaw, PK and Han, X and Lu, J and Zhao, Y and Yang, T},
title = {Increasing fatigue resistance in ordered intermetallic alloys with multi-element symbiosis.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41467-026-70838-w},
pmid = {41844645},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {52222112//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 52101151//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 52101162//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 52301139//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 52101135//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; },
abstract = {Intermetallic alloys, recognized for the long-range atomic ordering and resultant impressive mechanical properties, are highly sought after in various advanced fields, including aerospace, automotive, and nuclear energy. However, their widespread application is still hindered seriously due to the poor fatigue endurance. Here, we design a new-type L12-structured multi-element symbiotic intermetallic alloy (MSIMA) and achieve a fatigue limit of ~1,100 MPa that remarkably surpasses its yield strength by 1.1 times, which is superior to other structural alloys currently in use. The complex sublattice occupation strengthens the alloy by increasing the antiphase boundary energy of the superlattice, thereby suppressing the fatigue-induced lattice defects. Concurrently, the multi-element symbiosis enables the modulation of local chemistries and the architecting of the disordered interfacial nanolayer (DINL) near grain boundaries, thereby shifting the fatigue fracture mode from intergranular to transgranular cracking. Furthermore, serving as the ductilizing sources, these DINLs facilitate the unusual anti-fatigue mechanisms-mechanical faulting and twinning-that are rarely observed in ordered alloys at room temperature. This deformation behavior effectively alleviates the strain localization and blunts the crack propagation, thereby enhancing their fatigue resistance.},
}

@article {pmid41845984,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, C and Liu, Y},
title = {Cancer-associated fibroblasts: Orchestrators of the peritoneal metastatic microenvironment.},
journal = {Critical reviews in oncology/hematology},
volume = {222},
number = {},
pages = {105284},
doi = {10.1016/j.critrevonc.2026.105284},
pmid = {41845984},
issn = {1879-0461},
abstract = {Peritoneal metastasis (PM) represents a terminal stage of numerous abdominal malignancies, including gastric, colorectal, and ovarian cancers, and is associated with a dismal prognosis and limited therapeutic options. The peritoneal tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and dynamic ecosystem that actively governs cancer cell dissemination, implantation, and proliferation. Among the diverse cellular components of the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have emerged as principal regulators of this pro-tumorigenic niche. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence regarding the multifaceted roles of CAFs in driving PM. The diverse origins of peritoneal CAFs were examined, with a particular focus on the pivotal process of mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (MMT), and the profound functional heterogeneity within the CAF population was explored. Moreover, the mechanisms through which CAFs promote metastasis were delineated, including the extensive remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) that generates invasive pathways and modulates mechanotransduction. Furthermore, the complex CAF secretome, comprising cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and extracellular vesicles that directly stimulate cancer cell motility, invasion, and survival, was investigated. Besides, the critical role of CAFs in modulating metabolic symbiosis, particularly through the provision of lipids that enhance cancer cell membrane fluidity and invasiveness, was also addressed. Finally, the mechanisms by which CAFs establish a profoundly immunosuppressive microenvironment by recruiting and polarizing myeloid cells, inhibiting T-cell function, and creating a physical barrier to immune surveillance were elucidated. In conclusion, CAFs are important regulators of the peritoneal metastatic cascade, coordinating a spectrum of pro-tumorigenic events that collectively facilitate tumor progression and therapeutic resistance.},
}

@article {pmid41850296,
year = {2026},
author = {Bez, C and El Abiead, Y and Caraballo-Rodríguez, AM},
title = {From Molecules to Metabolomes, Understanding Symbiosis through Small Molecules.},
journal = {Journal of natural products},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jnatprod.5c01360},
pmid = {41850296},
issn = {1520-6025},
abstract = {Symbiosis, from Greek "living together" refers to the close association among organisms. Although these associations are found everywhere in nature, we do not know how these relationships are established or maintained over time. In this Perspective, we will focus on interorganism interactions involving microbes and eukaryotic hosts, particularly animals, plants, and humans, where symbiosis plays a critical role in health, development, and ecological fitness. We will focus on the chemical crosstalk between host and symbiont mediated by specialized small molecules. Finally, we suggest some steps for applying mass spectrometry-based metabolomic approaches to accelerate the understanding of these complex interactions.},
}

@article {pmid41850975,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, J and Valdés-López, O and Schornack, S},
title = {Beyond nitrogen: phosphate controls root nodule symbiosis commitment.},
journal = {Trends in plant science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tplants.2026.01.001},
pmid = {41850975},
issn = {1878-4372},
abstract = {While root nodule symbiosis (RNS) is primarily recognized for nitrogen acquisition, it is heavily influenced by phosphorus levels. In natural agroecosystems, nitrogen limitation frequently co-occurs with phosphorus deficiency, yet the role of phosphorus in modulating RNS remains understudied. Recent research in the legume Phaseolus vulgaris shows that phosphorus starvation suppresses nodulation by downregulating the master regulator gene Nodule Inception, mediated by phosphate-responsive factors such as Phosphate Starvation Response-Like 7. We propose an integrated model where phosphate signaling functions as a metabolic checkpoint, balancing carbon availability, nitrogen demand, and phosphorus status. Elucidating how phosphate scarcity rewires these symbiotic gene networks is essential for sustainable agriculture, allowing for the optimization of symbiotic nitrogen fixation in nutrient-depleted environments.},
}

@article {pmid41840421,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, S and Tan, S and Li, Q and He, D and Xu, L and Zhang, H and Wang, R and Guan, Y and Cheng, Z and Wu, J and Xu, W and Zhang, H and Tang, M and Fan, J and Liu, L and Xie, J},
title = {PagMYB74 orchestrates flavonoid-mediated plant-microbe feedback for drought resilience in poplar.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71086},
pmid = {41840421},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {2025D01E61//Xinjiang Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars/ ; },
abstract = {The interactions between plants and the soil microbiome play critical roles in regulating plant resistance to stresses. However, the process partly results from the complex interaction between root exudates and microbes, a relationship that remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated the interconnected responses of the root microbiome associated with the perennial tree Populus under drought stress. This was achieved via molecular genetics approaches and multi-omics analyses, combined with integrative comparisons of microbiome structure against both the host plant's metabolomic profiles and transcriptomic data, using samples collected over a 13-wk period of progressive drought treatment. We demonstrate that progressive drought triggers a phased transcriptional cascade in roots, culminating in the activation of a flavonoid biosynthesis program. Moreover, we confirm that Pseudomonas is strongly associated with flavonoid biosynthesis and identify that gene PagMYB74 is critical for quercetin and kaempferol secretion. We further found that Pseudomonas putida S110 colonization establishes positive feedback through enhanced phenylpropanoid metabolism and activation of nutrient transport pathways in PagMYB74-overexpressing plants, reinforcing the symbiotic interaction. Our findings establish a complete mechanistic continuum from a single host gene to metabolite-driven recruitment and symbiotic reprogramming, facilitating the improvement of environmental adaptation by regulating their interaction with beneficial soil microorganisms.},
}

@article {pmid41841409,
year = {2026},
author = {Chu, J and Xu, X and Xu, Y and Hu, K and Chan, HF and Chen, W and Cheung, KH and Ning, X and Yung, KKL},
title = {Bioengineered Probiotic-Prebiotic Hierarchical Microspheres With pH-Responsive Architecture Reprogram Immunometabolism in Obesity-Related Disorders.},
journal = {Small (Weinheim an der Bergstrasse, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e14910},
doi = {10.1002/smll.202514910},
pmid = {41841409},
issn = {1613-6829},
support = {82361168640//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; XJ2024043//Hong Kong Scholars Program/ ; 2021YFF1000700//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; N_EdUHK205/23//Joint Research Scheme/ ; JSTJ-2025-292//Jiangsu Youth Science and Technology Talent Support Program/ ; 20220ZB23//Jiangsu Funding Program for Excellent Postdoctoral Talent/ ; 82361168640//Joint Research Fund for Overseas Chinese Scholars and Scholars in Hong Kong and Macao/ ; },
abstract = {Obesity is increasingly recognized as a chronic immunometabolic disorder driven by dysregulated gut-adipose communication and microbiota imbalance. Here, we present bioengineered pH-responsive probiotic-prebiotic hierarchical microspheres (MicroSym) that coordinate localized microbial restoration with systemic immune reprogramming to treat obesity-related disorders. MicroSym is fabricated via microfluidic-assisted phase separation coupled with electrostatic spraying, embedding probiotic bacteria within a lotus-derived prebiotic matrix to form a protective yet responsive microenvironment that preserves viability during gastric transit. At intestinal pH, the hierarchical architecture selectively disassembles to release probiotics and prebiotic substrates, fostering beneficial colonization and metabolite production. This symbiotic modulation reshapes the gut immune landscape, suppresses proinflammatory macrophage polarization, and restores adipose tissue homeostasis. In diet-induced obese mice, oral treatment with MicroSym remodels the gut microbiota, improves glucose tolerance, reduces lipid accumulation, and normalizes cytokine profiles without overt toxicity. Transcriptomic profiling and microbiome analyses further validate comprehensive systemic immunometabolic benefits. Collectively, this work establishes a biofabricated symbiotic microsphere platform for controlling microbiota-immune-metabolic crosstalk and offers a translatable therapeutic strategy for obesity-associated immunometabolic disease.},
}

@article {pmid41841794,
year = {2026},
author = {Prasad, A and Santos-Matos, G and Szigeti-Genoud, A and Mazel, F and Engel, P},
title = {Priority effects drive strain-level community composition of honeybee gut microbiota.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wrag056},
pmid = {41841794},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {Gut microbial communities often differ at the strain level among individual hosts, but the mechanisms driving this variation remain poorly understood. One potential factor is priority effects, a process in which differences in the timing and order of microbial colonization influence subsequent community assembly ("first come, first served" dynamics). We hypothesize that such priority effects operate at the strain level within species, where closely related bacteria exhibit niche overlap, and that these dynamics can lead to community divergence even under similar environmental conditions. We tested these predictions, using the gut microbiota of honeybees, which harbor conserved microbial communities that differ in strain composition among individual bees. We sequentially colonized microbiota-depleted honeybees with two distinct microbial communities composed of the same twelve core microbiota species but different strains, ensuring that individuals shared species-level composition but differed at the strain level. We found that firstcomer strains consistently dominated the resulting communities, suggesting strong priority effects. Dropout experiments in which the firstcomer strain of a species was removed led to only partial increases in the colonization success of the conspecific latecomer, suggesting that both intra- and inter-species interactions contribute to priority effects. Our findings highlight the significant role of priority effects in strain-level community assembly and reveal their influence in shaping the specialized gut microbiota of honeybees, with important implications for the development of probiotic strategies in beekeeping.},
}

@article {pmid41842961,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, F and Pang, L and Liu, Y and Khan, F and Chen, P},
title = {Symbiotic exclusivity between CLOCK and TFPI2 drives stemness and immunosuppression in glioblastoma models.},
journal = {The Journal of clinical investigation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1172/JCI199056},
pmid = {41842961},
issn = {1558-8238},
abstract = {Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain tumor characterized by extensive crosstalk between glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) and immunosuppressive microglia, with our previous work identifying CLOCK and TFPI2 as key regulators of this interaction. Here, we uncover a 'symbiotic exclusivity' pattern between CLOCK and TFPI2, showing that despite mutually exclusive amplifications, they sustain symbiotic regulatory interactions in GBM. The CLOCK-BMAL1 complex transcriptionally upregulates TFPI2, while TFPI2-driven hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF1a) signaling activates nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) P65 to upregulate the CLOCK-BMAL1 complex, creating a positive feedback loop to promote stemness, immunosuppression, and tumor progression. Disrupting the CLOCK-TFPI2 interplay through dual inhibition of their downstream effectors reduces GSC stemness and immunosuppressive microglia, activates antitumor immunity, and synergizes with anti-PD1 therapy to achieve complete tumor regression in 50-62.5% of tumor-bearing mice. This study uncovers a promising therapeutic strategy for a broader subset of GBM patients with high expression of either CLOCK or TFPI2, and provides a framework for identifying 'symbiotic exclusivity' genes in cancer.},
}

@article {pmid41844078,
year = {2026},
author = {Lozano-Bilbao, E and Delgado-Suárez, I and Hardisson, A and González-Weller, D and Rubio, C and Paz, S and Gutiérrez, ÁJ},
title = {Microhabitat light regime drives a seasonal reversal of metal burdens in the photosymbiotic sea anemone Anemonia sulcata.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {228},
number = {},
pages = {119577},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.119577},
pmid = {41844078},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {Trace-metal accumulation in intertidal bioindicators can be strongly influenced by fine-scale ecological conditions, yet the role of microhabitat light regime in photosymbiotic species remains poorly understood. Here, we quantified Al, Fe, Zn, Cu, Cd and Pb in the sea anemone Anemonia sulcata from Tenerife and Gran Canaria using a fully crossed design that included island, microhabitat light regime (Light vs Dark), and season (Summer vs Winter). Metal profiles differed consistently between light regimes, but the strength and direction of this effect depended on season. In winter, individuals from Dark microhabitats showed higher concentrations for all analysed metals, whereas in summer the differences were weaker and restricted to a subset of elements. Multivariate and mixture-level analyses further showed that the Lighting × Season interaction explained the main structure of the dataset, while island contributed comparatively little to overall variation. These results indicate that microhabitat light regime is an important ecological modulator of metal burdens in A. sulcata, and that its effect changes seasonally. Accounting for both microhabitat and season may therefore improve the interpretation of biomonitoring data in intertidal photosymbiotic organisms.},
}

@article {pmid41844248,
year = {2026},
author = {Burghardt, LT and Sydow, P and Sutherland, J and Epstein, B and Tiffin, P},
title = {Genetic variation in host selectivity and adaptive strain enrichment in legume-rhizobia symbiosis: host-dependent, imperfect processes correlate with nodule morphology.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {293},
number = {2067},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2025.2851},
pmid = {41844248},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; //Division of Integrative Organismal Systems/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis/genetics ; *Medicago truncatula/genetics/microbiology/physiology/anatomy & histology ; *Genetic Variation ; *Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/anatomy & histology/genetics ; *Sinorhizobium meliloti/physiology ; Host Specificity/genetics ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; Nitrogen Fixation ; },
abstract = {Mutualism breakdown can be prevented if partner species preferentially select and reward partners that provide greater benefit. We examined these two components using the legume Medicago truncatula and its nitrogen-fixing symbiont Sinorhizobium meliloti. First, we re-analysed data from 202 accessions to show significant genetic variation in the capacity of Medicago to restrict strain diversity, finding that hosts with shorter nodules were more selective. A genome-wide association study on host selectivity identified genes including the hormone leginsulin, pectin degradation, multidrug and toxic compound efflux, zinc transport and DNA methylation. Second, we used two well-studied Medicago genotypes with contrasting nodule morphologies to assess the effectiveness of adaptive enrichment mechanisms by sampling the relative frequencies of rhizobial strains in pools of small nodules (indicating a lack of host investment) compared to large nodules (indicating increased host investment) and pairing these results with previous single-strain assessments of strain benefits to hosts. While both hosts enriched beneficial strains in large nodules, the host that formed larger and more variably sized nodules and thus had greater 'potential' to increase rhizobial populations was less effective. Our findings reveal that host genetic variation affects strain selectivity and suggest that nodule morphology traits warrant attention when exploring mutualism evolution.},
}

*Symbiosis/genetics
*Medicago truncatula/genetics/microbiology/physiology/anatomy & histology
*Genetic Variation
*Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/anatomy & histology/genetics
*Sinorhizobium meliloti/physiology
Host Specificity/genetics
Genome-Wide Association Study
Nitrogen Fixation

@article {pmid41834867,
year = {2026},
author = {Souza, JM and Ribeiro, PHC and Millen, DD},
title = {Review: Shifts of rumen microbiota by feeding non-fibrous carbohydrates to improve cattle performance.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1735296},
pmid = {41834867},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Ruminants play an essential role in food production due to their ability to utilize forages through fermentation in the rumen. This fermentative chamber hosts a diverse microbial community capable of degrading fiber and non-fiber carbohydrates, producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and microbial protein, which are essential for the animal's metabolism. Throughout their evolution, ruminants developed a symbiotic relationship with microorganisms specialized in the degradation of plant fibers, enabling the use of forages as a dietary foundation. However, modern intensive production systems have introduced concentrate ingredients to their diets (such as grains and industrial by-products), which represent a significant departure from ancestral diets based exclusively on forages. Dietary composition is the primary factor driving changes in the ruminal microbiota and can significantly alter its composition. Variations in the forage-to-concentrate ratio can drastically alter microbial activity, affecting the stability of the ruminal ecosystem. Sequencing technologies and omics approaches have enhanced the understanding of this ecology, allowing for more effective nutritional interventions. The objective of this review is to assess how contemporary diets in intensive production systems differ from ancestral, forage-only diets and how these differences reshape the ruminal microbiota. To this end, we characterized the variations in the ruminal microbiota composition of animals fed high-concentrate and high-forage diets, describing the specific microbial profiles of each condition and identifying beneficial and potentially detrimental microorganisms. This review synthesizes current evidence on how dietary transitions reshape ruminal microbial cross-feeding networks and proposes an integrative framework linking microbial symbiotic balance, rumen health, and production efficiency. By emphasizing the dynamic regulation of microbial interactions rather than isolated taxa, this work highlights cross-feeding stability as a central target for nutritional, microbial, and genetic interventions in intensive ruminant production systems.},
}

@article {pmid41835130,
year = {2026},
author = {Shoham, S and Weiss, C and Keren, R and Lavy, A and Polishchuk, I and Pokroy, B and Azem, A and Ilan, M},
title = {Intracellular vesicle-mediated biomineralization of arsenic and barium by a sponge symbiotic bacterium.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag039},
pmid = {41835130},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {In their soluble forms, arsenic and barium are ubiquitous toxic elements. Mechanisms for their detoxification include reducing bioavailability by assimilation into organic forms or mineralization. It was previously found that Entotheonella sp., a bacterium common to the Red Sea sponge Theonella swinhoei (Demospongiae, Tetractinellida), accumulates these elements by mineralizing them intracellularly, thus acting as a detoxifying organ to the sponge host. Here, we utilize cryo-TEM and energy-dispersive spectroscopy to investigate the accumulated minerals. Our results show that Entotheonella cells possess an internal membrane-enclosing sphere-like granules that contains barium, arsenic, sulfur, calcium, and phosphorus in high concentrations. Moreover, the bacterial cytoplasm contains many intracellular vesicles (ICVs) enriched with arsenic and sulfur. The coexistence of sulfur and arsenic may suggest the presence of cysteine-containing metal-binding proteins responsible for arsenic uptake and separation within the bacterial cell. To examine that hypothesis, we developed a protocol for vesicle isolation and performed proteomic profiling. Based on the proteins found, ICVs likely originate from the bacteria's outer membrane and contain proteins of known functions, including the transport and detoxification of toxic metals. These findings enhance our understanding of Entotheonella sp. and its host Tamiops swinhoei's unique strategies for hyper-accumulating and neutralizing toxic elements.},
}

@article {pmid41835236,
year = {2026},
author = {Ariyan, M and Mikryukov, V and Khalil, H and Gohar, D and Hosseyni Moghaddam, MS and Drenkhan, R and Tedersoo, L},
title = {Impact of plant species, mycorrhizal type, and leaf traits on foliar fungal communities (in a common garden experiment).},
journal = {IMA fungus},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {e173358},
pmid = {41835236},
issn = {2210-6340},
abstract = {Foliar fungal communities are essential components of the plant microbiome, playing a vital role in maintaining plant health and influencing ecosystem dynamics. Despite increasing interest in plant-microbe associations, the drivers shaping foliar fungal community composition remain poorly understood, including the roles of host phylogeny, functional traits, and belowground mycorrhizal symbiosis. We used the MycoPhylo experimental field, in which plant species are planted in a replicated, phylogenetically diverse design, to investigate the influence of host plant identity, mycorrhizal type, and leaf functional traits on foliar fungal assemblages. We examined foliar fungal communities across 158 plots representing 110 distinct plant species using a metabarcoding approach. The resulting operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were dominated by Dothideomycetes (44.5%), Tremellomycetes (12.7%), and Taphrinomycetes (9.0%). Functional guild analysis revealed that plant pathogens and saprotrophs were the most abundant ecological groups. Foliar fungal alpha diversity and community composition were significantly influenced by plant growth form and mycorrhizal association. Although plant deciduousness did not affect fungal richness, it significantly affected fungal community composition. The measured leaf traits (hairiness and thickness) showed the least influence on fungal richness. Mantel tests revealed weak, guild-dependent relationships between host phylogenetic distance and foliar fungal community dissimilarity. Moreover, plant phylogenetic eigenvectors accounted for up to 25.8% of the variation in fungal richness. These findings indicate that host phylogeny and plant traits contribute to-but do not solely determine-the structure of foliar fungal assemblages under field conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41835277,
year = {2026},
author = {Semenova, MG and Coba de la Peña, T and Petina, AN and Ivashina, T and Fedorova, EE},
title = {Nitrogen-fixing root nodules elicited by rhizobial potassium ion transporter Smkup1: senescence and autophagy.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1749975},
pmid = {41835277},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {With the aim to elucidate the interdependence between potassium transport by the host plant in nodule cells and potassium transport in bacteroids, a null mutant of rhizobial potassium ion transporter Smkup1 was created and investigated. The mutation, according to cytological analysis, has not caused specific aberrations in the root nodules' anatomy and ultrastructure, but a significant induction of the expression of host plant and rhizobial genes involved in the stress response was observed. At the same time, an opposite trend was observed for genes of the autophagy pathway that have shown a significant downregulation of expression. To identify the mechanisms of interplay between autophagy and senescence in the root nodule, an in silico analysis of protein-protein interactions of positive (Beclin 1) and negative (NAC1, BAK1) regulators of autophagy was performed. The resulting networks allowed the predictions of interacting proteins putatively linking symbiotic interactions, autophagy, stress, programmed cell death (PCD), and senescence. Based on these data, we hypothesized that modulation of the expression of these genes in the root nodule could be the way to extend the root nodule's lifespan and the duration of the nitrogen fixation process.},
}

@article {pmid41836174,
year = {2026},
author = {Lewis, N and Schätzle, S and Cardone, F and Erpenbeck, D and Wörheide, G and Vargas, S},
title = {Species-specific community structure in the microbiomes and eukaryotic communities associated with Mediterranean golf ball sponges.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {e20452},
doi = {10.7717/peerj.20452},
pmid = {41836174},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {*Porifera/microbiology ; Animals ; *Microbiota/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Species Specificity ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Eukaryota/genetics/classification ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sponges harbor complex and diverse microbiomes that contribute to the host's fitness and, ultimately, the health of the ecosystems sponges inhabit.

METHODS: Using high-throughput 16S and 18S rRNA amplicon sequencing, we explore the prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities associated with three sympatric Mediterranean demosponges, namely Tethya aurantium, Tethya meloni, and Tethya citrina.

RESULTS: We found species-specific prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities despite the close sympatry of the three Mediterranean Tethya species studied. This offers further support for the phylogenetic nature of the sponge microbiome, where microbial communities reflect the evolutionary ancestry of their host species. These patterns are both present in the eukaryotic and prokaryotic sponge-associated communities, since both display similar levels of host species specificity.},
}

*Porifera/microbiology
Animals
*Microbiota/genetics
Phylogeny
Species Specificity
RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Eukaryota/genetics/classification

@article {pmid41839662,
year = {2026},
author = {Abdallah, MM and Suo, C and Cui, Y and Ullah, RH and Nhung, HH and Li, L and Liu, C},
title = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi as integrative modulators of plant tolerance to drought, salinity, and heavy metal stress: mechanistic insights and future directions.},
journal = {Journal, genetic engineering & biotechnology},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {100636},
doi = {10.1016/j.jgeb.2025.100636},
pmid = {41839662},
issn = {2090-5920},
abstract = {Climate change and anthropogenic pressures have intensified abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and heavy metal (HM) contamination, severely impairing plant growth and productivity. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), through their symbiotic association with plant roots, offer a promising biological strategy to enhance plant resilience under these stresses. This review synthesizes recent advances in understanding the physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms by which AMF confer stress tolerance. Key mechanisms include modulation of aquaporin expression for water homeostasis, regulation of abscisic acid (ABA) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways, enhancement of antioxidant defenses, and fine-tuning of osmolyte metabolism such as proline. Under salinity, AMF improves ion homeostasis by regulating SOS1 and NHX transporters and enhancing K[+]/Na[+] discrimination. In HM-contaminated environments, AMF facilitate metal immobilization, chelation via phytochelatins and metallothioneins, and vacuolar sequestration, thereby reducing oxidative damage. The review also highlights AMF-mediated transcriptional reprogramming involving 14-3-3 proteins and stress-responsive transcription factors (e.g., WRKY, MYB, bHLH). By integrating rhizospheric interactions with intracellular signaling, AMF emerge as multifaceted modulators of plant stress physiology. This review delineates key gaps in current understanding and outlines strategic directions for harnessing AMF in sustainable agriculture under complex abiotic stress scenarios. By integrating mechanistic insights across drought, salinity, and heavy metal stress, it emphasizes the convergence of AMF-mediated signaling pathways and cross-tolerance mechanisms that underpin plant resilience.},
}

@article {pmid41839755,
year = {2026},
author = {Tourné, F and Medina, K and Listur, B and Báez, J and Martín, V},
title = {Commercial kombucha beverages produced in Uruguay: physicochemical composition and antioxidant profile.},
journal = {Journal of the science of food and agriculture},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jsfa.70589},
pmid = {41839755},
issn = {1097-0010},
support = {//Programa de Desarrollo de las Ciencias Básicas/ ; //Agencia Nacional de Investigación e Innovación/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Kombucha is an ancient beverage obtained by fermenting a sweetened tea infusion with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). Although its popularity has increased markedly in the past decade, there is still limited information on kombucha produced in Latin America, particularly regarding its physicochemical characteristics and antioxidant properties.

RESULTS: In this study, the chemical composition and antioxidant capacity of eight commercial kombuchas from the Uruguayan market were evaluated. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed two distinct clusters among the samples, mainly differentiated by ethanol, glycerol, total polyphenols, antioxidant capacity, volatile acidity, and titratable acidity. This multivariate pattern reflected differences in fermentation progress, where samples with lower residual sugar and higher levels of fermentation metabolites also showed greater antioxidant potential. A high degree of variability was detected among Uruguayan kombucha brands, especially regarding acidity and ethanol levels, with several products surpassing the threshold established for non-alcoholic beverages. In this set of samples, locally produced kombuchas tended to show higher phenolic content and antioxidant capacity than the imported products, highlighting their promising potential as functional beverages. However, further studies with a larger sample size are needed to confirm these trends.

CONCLUSION: This work represents the first report on the characterization of Uruguayan kombucha beverages and highlights the importance of establishing quality and regulatory standards to enhance product uniformity, safety, and consumer trust within the growing Latin American kombucha market. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41830828,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, Y and Qi, Z and Yin, L and Chang, F and Ju, H and Jing, H and Diao, X},
title = {Multi-level holobiont dysregulation increases the ecological risk of combined ocean acidification and benzo[a]pyrene pollution to the reef-building coral Porites lutea.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {507},
number = {},
pages = {141743},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141743},
pmid = {41830828},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Reef-building corals are increasingly threatened by the combined effects of global climate change and localized organic pollutants. However, the holistic impacts of co-exposure to ocean acidification (OA) and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) on coral holobionts remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the multi-level responses of the reef-building coral Porites lutea to short-term (7-day) exposure to OA (pH 7.80), BaP (10 µg/L), and their combination, by integrating physiological measurements with microbiome profiling (ITS2 and 16S rRNA). We found that combined stress was associated with a dysregulated response in Symbiodiniaceae, characterized by a significant increase in cell density without a parallel rise in chlorophyll content, suggesting a possible compensatory but inefficient proliferation response. Despite this, the dominant symbiont Cladocopium C15 remained stable. The bacterial diversity increased (e.g., enrichment of Ruegeria and Acanthopleuribacter, decline of Endozoicomonas), which may suggest enhanced functional redundancy, while the archaeal community was significantly restructured, most notably a marked decline of the putative obligate Nanoarchaeota-Halobacterota symbiosis. At the host level, combined stress was associated with suppressed antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD/POD) but upregulated genes related to protein folding (Hsp90) and calcium homeostasis (NCX1, VAMP4). These findings suggest a complex holobiont reconfiguration under combined stress, involving a stabilized core symbiont, altered microbiomes, and a shifted host defense strategy. Our study suggests that the ecological risk of combined OA and organic pollution may not be extrapolated from single-stressor responses, indicating the need to incorporate multi-stressor frameworks into coral reef risk assessments.},
}

@article {pmid41831253,
year = {2026},
author = {Maartens, LH and Gummow, B and Grewar, JD and Picard, J and Thompson, PN},
title = {A cohort study of factors associated with the incidence rate of keratoconjunctivitis in dairy heifers farmed under Mediterranean climatic conditions.},
journal = {Preventive veterinary medicine},
volume = {251},
number = {},
pages = {106849},
doi = {10.1016/j.prevetmed.2026.106849},
pmid = {41831253},
issn = {1873-1716},
abstract = {Bovine keratoconjunctivitis (BK) is a common ocular disease in cattle, often linked to symbiotic bacteria with pathogenic potential, such as Moraxella bovis. Although treatable, BK impacts productivity, animal welfare, and antimicrobial stewardship in food-producing systems. This study estimated the incidence rate of BK among dairy heifers and evaluated animal- and herd-level risk factors, including the field efficacy of a commercial M. bovis vaccine. A year-long prospective cohort study was conducted in 636 dairy heifers across nine farms in South Africa's Mediterranean climatic zone. Heifers were monitored monthly for general health and BK signs. Conjunctival swabs were collected to detect M. bovis, M. bovoculi, and Mesomycoplasma bovoculi. Risk factor data were obtained via structured interviews, environmental monitoring, and weather records. BK incidence density rate (IDR), vaccine efficacy, and risk factor associations were assessed using Poisson models. The BK IDR was 25.1 cases per 100 eye-years (95% CI: 20.7-30.4), peaking in summer. No microbial agents were significantly associated with BK IDR, underscoring its multifactorial nature. Incidence rates were similar between vaccinated and unvaccinated heifers, supporting evidence that current vaccines offer inconsistent protection. Significant animal-level risk factors included younger age, poor body condition, and peri-orbital dermatophytosis. Heifers in drylot enclosures with consistent nutrition showed lower BK incidence. Seasonal increases in solar radiation, lachryphagous fly abundance, and pyrethroid pesticide use were linked to higher BK IDR. Findings support a paradigm shift in BK prevention, emphasizing nutritional resilience, welfare-based heifer management, integrated pest control, and responsible pesticide use.},
}

@article {pmid41831708,
year = {2026},
author = {Sánchez, O and González, IC and Poyo, JG and Ureña, M and Arias, A},
title = {The hidden passengers: On the role of exotic crayfish in the spread of symbiotic and pathogenic organisms in northern Iberian Peninsula.},
journal = {Journal of invertebrate pathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108598},
doi = {10.1016/j.jip.2026.108598},
pmid = {41831708},
issn = {1096-0805},
abstract = {The spread of invasive crayfish species poses a growing threat to freshwater ecosystems and public health, not only through direct ecological impacts but also by facilitating the transmission of symbionts and potential zoonotic pathogens. This study characterizes the symbiont diversity associated with the crayfish species that occur in northern Spain. In addition, the first comprehensive and comparative compilation of reported symbiont and parasite species of crayfish species reported in Iberia is provided. A combination of scanning electron and optical microscopy analysis and a review of the literature was employed to identify the symbionts and evaluate their spatial distribution on the host, their taxonomy, and their zoonotic potential. A total of five crayfish species were analyzed, with symbionts recorded across multiple body regions, particularly the chelipeds, gills, and pleopods. The most prevalent taxa belonged to the phyla Ciliophora, Annelida, and Platyhelminthes. Some symbionts, such as Xironogiton victoriensis and Uncinocythere occidentalis, were identified as obligate ectosymbionts that could have a negative impact on protected species such as Austropotamobius fulcisianus. Furthermore, several symbiont taxa (e.g., Fusarium sp., and Paragonimus spp.) are known to be zoonotic and are associated with conditions such as keratitis, onychomycosis, and paragonimiasis. The results highlight the dual ecological and epidemiological risk posed by crayfish invasions. As vectors of both invasive symbionts and zoonotic agents, these crustaceans may facilitate the emergence of new infectious diseases in freshwater environments. This underscores the need for integrated monitoring strategies that consider symbiont-host dynamics in invasive species management and public health surveillance and highlights the importance of implementing targeted management actions to mitigate ecological impacts and reduce associated health risks.},
}

@article {pmid41831761,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, J and Liu, Z and Yin, X and Guo, Z and Wang, J and He, Z and Liu, W and Luo, H and Xu, X and Yue, X and Zhou, A},
title = {Sustainable hydrogen and vivianite recovery from waste activated sludge in electro-fermentation: Perspectives of product regulation and microbial interaction.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {298},
number = {},
pages = {124248},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2026.124248},
pmid = {41831761},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Zero-valent iron mediated electro-fermentation (EF) has recently emerged as a promising strategy for the synchronous hydrogen and vivianite recovery from waste activated sludge (WAS), while the mechanism of production regulation and microbial interaction still remains unclear. In this study, a comprehensive analysis of hydrogen and phosphorus recovery from prefermented sludge via EF was performed. The substrate reduction (∼2500 mg COD/L, fermentation liquid was diluted 1:1) resulted in the highest hydrogen yield (25.5 mmol/g COD) and complete phosphate recovery at 2 d, the recovered vivianite accomplished the largest crystal size (138.8 μm) with layered structures. The highest utilization efficiency of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and organics was also achieved in 1:1 group. Anaerobic fermentation bacteria (AFB), electroactive bacteria (EAB), homo-acetogens, and nitrate reducing bacteria (NRB) were the predominant microbes in the plankton and bio-cathode, forming a mutually beneficial and stable symbiotic network. Further analysis of metabolic pathways revealed that the 1:1 group exhibited higher abundance of key functional genes involved in hydrolysis, acidification, and hydrogen production. This study may provide the theoretical and technical foundation for sludge valorization in the future implementation of EF in wastewater treatment plants.},
}

@article {pmid41831799,
year = {2026},
author = {Qi, H and Wu, R and Liao, J and Alvarez, PJJ and Yu, P},
title = {Longitudinal multi-omics reveal phase-dependent viral adaptive strategies and functional potential during formation of algal-bacterial granular sludge.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {449},
number = {},
pages = {134410},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134410},
pmid = {41831799},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Virus-prokaryote interactions within microbial aggregates critically influence microbiome function and stability, yet the interactive dynamics during microbial aggregation remain largely unexplored. Here, longitudinal multi-omics revealed that prokaryotic host community diversity underwent decline and subsequent recovery during algal-bacterial granular sludge (ABGS) formation from activated sludge. Declined host diversity in the collapse phase enriched for lysogenic viruses and facilitated virus-host mutualistic symbiosis, during which the proportion of lysogenic metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) peaked at 84% (841,649 TPM), with auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) primarily involved in genetic information processing and amino acid metabolism. Moreover, low host diversity increased viral microdiversity by 1.97-fold and selected for virion structure genes that were conducive to viral fitness and replication. As host diversity recovered during the recovery phase, viruses and hosts engaged in an evolutionary arms race, with both host defense systems (DS) (Spearman's Rho = 0.68, P < 0.05) and viral anti-defense systems (ADS) (Spearman's Rho = 0.51, P < 0.05) enriched along with granule maturation. Furthermore, active lysogenic infections were accompanied by the dissemination of AMGs predominantly associated with the metabolism of cofactors, vitamins, terpenoids, and polyketides. Despite their phase-dependent functional profiles, lysogenic phages with AMGs putatively enhanced the structural and functional stability of the microbiome during ABGS formation. Overall, our study unveils a phase-dependent co-evolutionary interplay between viruses and prokaryotic hosts during ABGS formation, providing insights into virus-mediated microbial structural and functional resilience in engineered ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid41833385,
year = {2026},
author = {Itakura, M and Kakizaki, K and Suzuki, A and Okubo, S and Kato, H and Sugawara, M and Saeki, Y and Minamisawa, K},
title = {Screening of Bradyrhizobium ottawaense with High N2O-reducing Activity from Soybean Nodules in Japan.},
journal = {Microbes and environments},
volume = {41},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1264/jsme2.ME25062},
pmid = {41833385},
issn = {1347-4405},
mesh = {*Bradyrhizobium/genetics/isolation & purification/classification/metabolism/enzymology ; *Glycine max/microbiology ; Japan ; *Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology ; Phylogeny ; *Oxidoreductases/genetics/metabolism ; Symbiosis ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics/chemistry ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; },
abstract = {Bradyrhizobium ottawaense has prospects as an environmentally friendly inoculant for soybean farming because of its higher N2O reductase (N2OR) activity than that of B. diazoefficiens. To examine high N2O-reducing B. ottawaense, we performed a PCR anal-ysis of nosZ genes in 8,640 soybean nodules from 68 fields in Japan. Of 384 PCR-positive nodules, we obtained 90 isolates of bradyrhizobia with B. ottawaense-type nosZ, derived exclusively from 18 fields in Gunma and Osaka prefectures. Of 77 monophyletic isolates, 73 had significantly higher N2OR activity than B. diazoefficiens USDA110. Another 13 isolates‍ ‍from Osaka were phylogenetically placed outside of the B. ottawaense clade with B. liaoningense or B. betae, 8 of which also exhibited significantly higher N2OR activity than B. diazoefficiens USDA110. An anal-ysis of nopP gene sequences revealed amino acid sequence variations in the NopP effector protein among these high N2O-reducing isolates, with the NopPUSDA122 type being one of the variations identified. The NopP-mediated symbiotic incompatibility of soybean host plants may eliminate nodulation by indigenous bradyrhizobia and facilitate inoculant nodulation to reduce N2O emissions. Therefore, 90 isolates and their observed NopP types are‍ ‍potentially important resources for N2O mitigation. Furthermore, the dense geographical map of Bradyrhizobium species based on Internal Transcribed Spacer-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms (ITS-RFLP) of the 16S-23S rRNA gene from 8,640 nodules revealed the recent northward expansion of B. elkanii to central Japan potentially due to global warming. This change in indigenous soybean bradyrhizobia is important for application strategies of bradyrhizobial inoculants under field conditions.},
}

*Bradyrhizobium/genetics/isolation & purification/classification/metabolism/enzymology
*Glycine max/microbiology
Japan
*Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology
Phylogeny
*Oxidoreductases/genetics/metabolism
Symbiosis
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
DNA, Bacterial/genetics/chemistry
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Sequence Analysis, DNA

@article {pmid41833390,
year = {2026},
author = {Ito, S and Matsumoto, S and Kadowaki, M and Sato, H and Saeki, Y and Shiro, S},
title = {Effects of Soil Moisture Content and Rj Genotype Differences on Soybean Productivity and Soybean-nodulating Bradyrhizobial Occupancy.},
journal = {Microbes and environments},
volume = {41},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1264/jsme2.ME25075},
pmid = {41833390},
issn = {1347-4405},
mesh = {*Glycine max/growth & development/microbiology/genetics ; *Soil/chemistry ; Genotype ; *Bradyrhizobium/physiology/genetics/classification/isolation & purification/growth & development ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Water/analysis ; Symbiosis ; Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/growth & development ; Plant Roots/growth & development/microbiology ; },
abstract = {We exami-ned the effects of soil moisture changes on soybean growth, yield, and the structure of soybean-nodulating bradyrhizobial communities in cultivars with different Rj genotypes. The experiment was conducted using cultivation pots with soybean cultivars Bragg (non-Rj), CNS (Rj2Rj3), D-51 (Rj3), and Fukuyutaka (Rj4). Test strains included Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA 110[T], B. japonicum USDA 6[T] and USDA 123, and B. elkanii USDA 31. Cultivation pots were built with 15-cm ridges, and three soil moisture conditions were generated by varying the presence and placement of drainage holes on the pots. Declining soil moisture significantly reduced shoot length, shoot dry weight, root dry weight, root length, nodule number, pod number, pod dry weight, and seed number. An occupancy anal-ysis showed that USDA 110 dominated Fukuyutaka only; across treatments, it was the most abundant under high soil moisture, but significantly declined with reductions in soil moisture, where USDA 31 became dominant. A non-metric multidimensional scaling anal-ysis revealed shifts in community compositions in response to soil moisture and cultivar. Collectively, these results indicate that soybean growth, yield, and symbiosis with bradyrhizobia are strongly affected by soil moisture and also that these effects vary among cultivars.},
}

*Glycine max/growth & development/microbiology/genetics
*Soil/chemistry
Genotype
*Bradyrhizobium/physiology/genetics/classification/isolation & purification/growth & development
*Soil Microbiology
*Water/analysis
Symbiosis
Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/growth & development
Plant Roots/growth & development/microbiology

@article {pmid41833536,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, H and Cai, LQ and Mou, Q and Sun, YF and Yang, KY and Liang, YS and Li, HS and Pang, H},
title = {A free-living Serratia symbiotica strain enhances aphid development, potentially through alteration of host nutritional composition.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70719},
pmid = {41833536},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//Open Fund of Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Protection and Resource Utilization/ ; //National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; //National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; JCYJ20250604175510013//the Shenzhen Science and Technology Program/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Aphids harbor diverse microbial communities that influence their development, reproduction, and stress tolerance. In our previous work, we identified a free-living strain of Serratia symbiotica, SsMj, which is highly abundant in the gut of Megoura crassicauda. However, the biological effects of SsMj on its aphid host remain largely unknown.

RESULTS: In this study, SsMj- M. crassicauda were generated by rearing newly hatched nymphs separately from their parthenogenetic SsMj+ parents. Absolute quantification of the microbiome revealed that, apart from the loss of SsMj, the overall bacterial abundance and diversity did not differ significantly between SsMj- and SsMj+ aphids. Nevertheless, SsMj- individuals exhibited slower development, smaller body size, reduced survival, and produced more offspring compared to their SsMj+ counterparts. Metabolomic analyses further showed that SsMj- aphids accumulated higher levels of several sugars but lower concentrations of multiple amino acids. Consistently, the insulin-like peptide (ILP) gene showed elevated expression across developmental stages in SsMj- aphids, which is likely to reflect a response to nutrient imbalance. RNA interference targeting ILP significantly delayed development, confirming its regulatory role in aphid growth. Comparative genomics showed that the SsMj genome contains a high number of genes involved in amino acid synthesis pathways than both obligate and facultative S. symbiotica strains, a pattern consistent with other free-living strains.

CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that S. symbiotica plays an essential role in aphid nutrient metabolism, and is likely to be facilitating the conversion of dietary sugars into amino acids to support host development. The fitness benefits conferred by this free-living S. symbiotica strain suggest a close, mutualistic-like association with its aphid host, highlighting its ecological and physiological significance in insect-microbe interactions. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41833568,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, X and Zhang, P and Liu, Y and He, Y and Wang, L and Martin, FM and Zhang, F},
title = {Functional specialisation of ammonium transporters in the ectomycorrhizal fungus Laccaria bicolor.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71068},
pmid = {41833568},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {31901279//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32271829//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; ANR-11-LABX-0002-01//Laboratory of Excellence ARBRE and the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China/ ; //Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China./ ; },
abstract = {Ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi enhance nitrogen (N) uptake in trees; however, the molecular mechanisms and functional specialisation among transporter isoforms remain poorly understood. Here, we characterised two ammonium transporters, LbAMT1.1a and LbAMT2.3, in the basidiomycete Laccaria bicolor, revealing complementary roles in fungal growth and symbiosis. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that LbAMT1.1a was constitutively expressed during mycelial growth, whereas LbAMT2.3 was specifically induced during ECM formation. RNAi targeting each gene reduced mycelial growth, with LbAMT1.1a silencing producing stronger defects. [15]N-ammonium tracing demonstrated that both RNAi strains exhibited an over 83% reduction in ammonium uptake compared to wild-type. In planta experiments revealed differential impacts on symbiosis. Both RNAi strains showed a 31-60% reduction in ECM formation. LbAMT2.3 RNAi significantly reduced lateral root formation, suggesting an additional role in developmental signalling. Gene expression analysis revealed that LbAMT2.3 silencing suppressed LbAMT1.1a transcript levels, indicating regulatory crosstalk between subfamilies. Dual isotope tracing ([15]N/[13]C) confirmed that impaired fungal N uptake reduces both N transfer and carbon allocation, with LbAMT1.1a disruption having a greater impact. In conclusion, LbAMT1.1a serves as the primary ammonium uptake pathway, whereas LbAMT2.3 functions as both a symbiosis-induced transporter and a positive regulator of LbAMT1 family expression, with an additional role in modulating host root architecture.},
}

@article {pmid41829836,
year = {2026},
author = {Yuan, Y and Jia, Y and Chen, C and Wu, L and Sun, J and Zhou, Q and Wang, H and Chen, Y},
title = {Rhizosheath-Mycorrhizal Interactions in Kengyilia hirsuta Enhance Phosphorus Efficiency.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15050805},
pmid = {41829836},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {2024YFHZ0167//The Sichuan Regional Innovation Cooperation Project/ ; 2021PTJS30//Special Project from the Collaborative Innovation Center for Ecological Animal Husbandry on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Southwest Minzu University/ ; CX2023009//Discipline Construction Project of Southwest Minzu University/ ; ZYN2024013//Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities, Southwest Minzu University/ ; 2024CXTD11//The project number of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau Research Innovation Team/ ; },
abstract = {Phosphorus deficiency is a key factor limiting plant growth in desertified grasslands. Elucidating the adaptive strategies of pioneer plants that integrate root morphology and microbial interactions is crucial for understanding the natural restoration of ecosystems. This study investigated the strategies employed by Kengyilia hirsuta, a pioneer grass species in desertified grasslands, to adapt to low-phosphorus environments. By conducting sand culture experiments under varying phosphorus levels (low, optimal, and high), we focused on elucidating the synergistic adaptive mechanisms involving the root-rhizosheath system. The results showed that the rhizosheath serves as a critical micro-ecological niche for enriching arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and enhancing phosphatase activity. Under low-phosphorus stress, the plant strengthened root hair development and its symbiotic association with AMF, which markedly increased acid phosphatase activity and led to the highest phosphorus use efficiency. At the optimal phosphorus level, the plant developed an efficient "rhizosheath-mycorrhiza" synergistic system, characterized by high AMF colonization and spore density, facilitating optimized carbon-phosphorus exchange. Under phosphorus-sufficient conditions, the adaptive strategy transitioned towards root morphological plasticity, exemplified by increased surface area and branching. Multivariate analysis revealed that the phosphorus absorption efficiency of K. hirsuta is co-regulated by both morphological adaptation and symbiotic optimization. This study elucidates the mechanisms of nutrient stress adaptation in desertified grassland plants, providing a theoretical foundation for understanding the natural restoration processes of degraded ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid41829798,
year = {2026},
author = {Hussain, HA and Liang, Z and Hussain, S and Luo, J and Sui, S and Liu, D},
title = {Harnessing Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis to Enhance Growth and Resilience to Combined Drought and Heat Stress in Lily (Lilium spp.).},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15050767},
pmid = {41829798},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {CSTB2023TIAD-LDX0002//Chongqing Municipal Special Fund for Technological Innovation and Application Development/ ; CSTB2023TIAD-LUX0005//Chongqing Municipal Special Fund for Technological Innovation and Application Development/ ; },
abstract = {Abiotic stresses such as drought and heat increasingly threaten plant growth and ornamental quality, particularly in climate-sensitive floricultural crops. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are known to enhance plant resilience under such conditions, yet their role in lilies remains insufficiently explored. In this study, we used a two-tier experimental approach to evaluate AMF-mediated benefits in lilies. First, different AMF strains, namely Funneliformis mosseae (FM), Rhizophagus intraradices (RI), Rhizophagus irregularis (RIG), Claroideoglomus etunicatum (CE), Diversispora versiformis (DV), and a mixed consortium (MIX), were screened for growth-promoting effects in two Lilium species, Taiwan lily and Lilium cv. Sorbonne, under non-stress conditions. Second, a selected AMF-host combination from the screening was evaluated to improve tolerance to drought, heat, and combined drought + heat stress. Among the tested strains, DV and MIX showed the most consistent improvements across key growth traits and root colonization. In the stress experiment, stress treatments reduced growth and physiological performance, particularly under combined drought + heat. AMF inoculation enhanced plant performance by improving shoot and root biomass, improving root system architecture, and leading to a higher chlorophyll content, greater relative water content, and enhanced flower traits. Biochemical analyses further revealed that AMF mitigated stress-induced oxidative damage by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, as shown by reduced O2•[-] and H2O2 staining. This reduction in oxidative stress was supported by increased activities of key antioxidant enzymes, indicating that AMF activate cellular defense mechanisms. These findings underscore the potential of AMF as a sustainable biotechnological tool for improving stress tolerance in lilies and enhancing floricultural productivity under climate-challenged environments.},
}

@article {pmid41829734,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, Z and Wei, H and Hu, H and Yao, Y and Liang, J and Wu, P},
title = {Kinship Modulates Carbon Allocation and Phosphorus Acquisition in Chinese Fir-AMF Networks Under Neighbor P Limitation.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15050703},
pmid = {41829734},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {No. 2024J02010//Key Program of Natural Science of Fujian Province, China/ ; No. ZMGG-0801//8th Special Project on Seedling Research and Development of Forestry Science and Technology in Fujian Province, China/ ; },
abstract = {Phosphorus (P) deficiency in forest soils is a key constraint on the sustainable management and productivity of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) plantations. This study investigated how P limitation alters the reciprocal exchange of "photosynthetic carbon and mineral phosphorus" between Chinese fir and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) when the focal plant grows adjacent to neighbors with different degrees of relatedness. An indoor pot experiment simulating heterogeneous P supply was conducted using clonal seedlings of Chinese fir No. 36 as the focal plant, with Chinese fir No. 36, Chinese fir No. 41, and Schima superba as neighboring plants to establish three two-plant combinations: a kin pair (No. 36 + No. 36), a close-kin pair (No. 36 + No. 41), and an unrelated-kin pair (No. 36 + S. superba). Funneliformis mosseae was inoculated into the shared root-zone room connecting the two plants, and the neighbor was subjected to a gradient of P limitation (sufficient P, low P, and zero P). Meanwhile, the focal No. 36 plant received [13]CO2 pulse labeling to form a "Chinese fir-AMF-P-limited neighbor" symbiotic network in which No. 36 served as the [13]C donor. AMF colonization, seedling growth, and changes in [13]C enrichment and P concentration in plant tissues of the focal plant were quantified. Neighbor P limitation significantly increased AMF colonization in roots and whole-plant P concentration of the focal Chinese fir. Following [13]CO2 pulse labeling, whole-plant [13]C enrichment of the focal plant increased significantly under the neighbor zero P treatment, suggesting enhanced carbon allocation under severe neighbor P limitation. Moreover, under the neighbor zero P treatment, focal plants grown with an unrelated-kin neighbor showed significant increases in stem P concentration (1.86 g·kg[-1]) and stem atom% [13]C (1.50%), whereas focal plants grown with a kin neighbor exhibited a significant increase in root Atom% [13]C (1.29%). These patterns indicate that neighbor relatedness may modulate carbon allocation and P acquisition within the mycorrhizal network: in the kin context, the focal plant tended to allocate more photosynthetic carbon belowground and may partially subsidize the AMF carbon demand (i.e., a higher C reward), coinciding with a relatively weaker P accumulation in its own tissues; in contrast, in the unrelated kin context, carbon allocation shifted toward stems and was associated with strengthened P accumulation in stem tissues. Overall, the results highlight the dynamic nature of AMF-mediated carbon-nutrient reciprocity across hosts of contrasting relatedness and provide new insights into how mycorrhizal networks may facilitate plant adaptation to nutrient limitation.},
}

@article {pmid41829161,
year = {2026},
author = {Infante-Neta, AA and D'Almeida, AP and Lima, RS and Cecília, JA and da Silva Junior, IJ and Gonçalves, LB and de Albuquerque, TL},
title = {Waste Valorization of Passion Fruit Peel Hydrolysate for Bacterial Cellulose Production: Influence of Nitrogen Source on Yield and Functional Properties for Food Packaging.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods15050888},
pmid = {41829161},
issn = {2304-8158},
abstract = {The valorization of agro-industrial residues represents a strategic approach to advancing sustainability and circular bioeconomy principles in the food sector. Although bacterial cellulose (BC) production from waste substrates has been widely explored, limited attention has been given to the role of nitrogen source modulation in complex fermentation systems. This study evaluated passion fruit peel hydrolysate (PFPH), a cellulose- and hemicellulose-rich by-product, as an alternative carbon source for BC production using a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) under static conditions. Acid hydrolysis and detoxification were performed to obtain fermentable sugars while minimizing inhibitory compounds. Different nitrogen sources and purification strategies were comparatively assessed. The highest purified BC yield (81 g L[-1] of culture medium) was obtained using ammonium sulfate, whereas sodium nitrate promoted greater impurity removal (77.51% mass reduction). Structural and chemical analyses (FTIR, XPS, and XRD) confirmed effective delignification, enhanced surface purity, and increased crystallinity. SEM revealed a homogeneous nanofibrillar network, and thermogravimetric analysis indicated thermal stability up to approximately 300 °C. Soil burial assays showed 26% mass loss after 42 days, demonstrating controlled biodegradation consistent with food packaging requirements. Overall, PFPH proved to be an efficient and sustainable substrate for BC biosynthesis. The modulation of nitrogen source significantly influenced both production yield and structural properties, highlighting the potential of this system for developing environmentally responsible biopolymer materials for food packaging applications.},
}

@article {pmid41828632,
year = {2026},
author = {Kastuganova, K and Askerov, A and Szabó, A and Barteneva, NS},
title = {Systematic Review: Long-Read Sequencing in Algal Studies.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27052415},
pmid = {41828632},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {AP26104995//Ministry of High Education and Sciences, Kazakhstan/ ; FDCRGP grant #SSH2024005//Nazarbayev University/ ; },
mesh = {*High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; Genomics/methods ; Symbiosis/genetics ; Microbiota/genetics ; },
abstract = {Long-read sequencing (LRS) has transformed life science research by introducing third-generation sequencing (TGS) platforms applicable across various research fields, including environmental sciences. In the past decade, LRS platforms have been utilized to extensively study algal systems by improving genomic approaches such as metabarcoding, chromosome-level genome and pangenome assemblies, as well as providing new insights into algae-associated microbiomes and host-symbiont interactions. This review aims to discuss recent advancements in LRS in algal research. To achieve this aim, a systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and across three electronic databases (Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar), with additional citation searching for relevant studies in four key algal research areas: metabarcoding, genomics, pangenomics, and host-symbionts interactions. Following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, only 51 studies were selected for this review. Throughout the review, we summarize the challenges of short-read sequencing (SRS) and discuss how LRS platforms address these challenges in algal studies. Furthermore, we discuss the future of LRS and explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can advance research on algal biology and ecology.},
}

*High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods
Genomics/methods
Symbiosis/genetics
Microbiota/genetics

@article {pmid41828348,
year = {2026},
author = {Leemann, RG and Liu, Y and Hjørungnes, M and Bailly, A and Bellés-Sancho, P and Pessi, G},
title = {Paraburkholderia phymatum STM815[T] Pectate Lyase Has a Negative Impact on Nitrogen-Fixing Symbiosis with Common Bean.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27052119},
pmid = {41828348},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {310030_215282/SNSF_/Swiss National Science Foundation/Switzerland ; 1462/2025//Vontobel Stiftung/ ; },
mesh = {*Nitrogen Fixation ; *Symbiosis ; *Polysaccharide-Lyases/genetics/metabolism ; *Phaseolus/microbiology ; *Burkholderiaceae/enzymology/genetics ; Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {In the face of global challenges such as food insecurity, environmental degradation, and climate change, biological nitrogen fixation by rhizobia has become increasingly crucial for supporting sustainable agriculture and reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Paraburkholderia phymatum STM815[T] is a beta-proteobacterial rhizobium notable for its exceptionally broad host range, forming nitrogen-fixing symbioses with over 50 legume species. In this study, we identified pelB on the P. phymatum STM815[T] symbiotic plasmid, which codes for a pectate lyase, whose expression is activated by the presence of pectin in the medium and during symbiosis with common bean. In the absence of pelB, P. phymatum STM815[T] shows improved symbiotic performance with common bean. Plants infected with the pelB mutant developed fewer but larger nodules and exhibited a 43% increase in nitrogenase activity, suggesting that pelB in P. phymatum STM815[T] may negatively affect nodulation efficiency and nitrogen fixation in common bean.},
}

*Nitrogen Fixation
*Symbiosis
*Polysaccharide-Lyases/genetics/metabolism
*Phaseolus/microbiology
*Burkholderiaceae/enzymology/genetics
Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid41826648,
year = {2026},
author = {Sung, Y and Kim, DK and Kim, JS and Kim, SJ and Kim, JH and Han, JM},
title = {Metabolic networks in the tumor microenvironment: roles of amino acid and lipid metabolism pathways in cancer progression and therapy.},
journal = {Experimental & molecular medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s12276-026-01697-0},
pmid = {41826648},
issn = {2092-6413},
support = {RS-2023-00219297//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; RS-2025-00573098//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; RS-2025-18362970//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; NRF-2022R1A5A2027161//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; NRF-2023R1A2C1006159//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; RS-2024-00334337//Korea Drug Development Fund (KDDF)/ ; },
abstract = {Metabolic rewiring, a defining hallmark of cancer, sustains cell proliferation and biosynthesis while coordinating adaptive interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent advances reveal that metabolism in the TME-comprising stromal, immune and endothelial components forms a complex metabolic network in which intercellular competition, cooperation and plasticity profoundly influence tumor progression and therapeutic responses. Here we integrate emerging evidence on the organizational principles of amino acid and lipid metabolism within the TME, emphasizing how nutrient fluxes shape immune evasion, therapeutic resistance and metabolic symbiosis. We highlight key mechanisms through which cancer and nonmalignant cells engage in reciprocal nutrient manipulation, focusing on glutamine, arginine, tryptophan, branched-chain amino acids and lipids. The dual roles of these metabolites in immune regulation and tumor growth reveal the limitations of traditional single-pathway targeting and advocate for a network-centric therapeutic approach. We further discuss how metabolite-derived signaling and epigenetic regulation reinforce cell state transitions and immune suppression. Current and emerging therapeutic strategies, including multitarget combinations and immune-metabolic synergies, are evaluated alongside translational challenges. Finally, we underscore the need for spatial metabolomics, liquid biopsy platforms and artificial intelligence-driven modeling to map nutrient competition and cooperative exchange within the TME, offering new opportunities for precision metabolic interventions.},
}

@article {pmid41826362,
year = {2026},
author = {Gabandé-Rodríguez, E and Gómez de Las Heras, MM and Ramírez-Ruiz de Erenchun, P and Simó, C and García-Cañas, V and Inohara, N and Berenguer-López, I and Enríquez-Zarralanga, V and Fernández-Almeida, Á and Oller, J and Soto-Heredero, G and Carrasco, E and Vázquez-Muñoz, C and Delgado-Pulido, S and Escrig-Larena, JI and Francos-Quijorna, I and Justo-Méndez, R and Aranda, JF and Poulton, J and Lechuga-Vieco, AV and Enríquez, JA and Núñez, G and Mittelbrunn, M},
title = {Butyrate extends health and lifespan in mice with mitochondrial deficiency.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41467-026-70547-4},
pmid = {41826362},
issn = {2041-1723},
abstract = {Mitochondrial diseases progressively lead to multisystemic failure with treatment options remaining extremely limited. Here, to investigate strategies that alleviate mitochondrial dysfunction, we first generate a ubiquitous and tamoxifen-inducible knockout mouse model of mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), a nuclear-encoded protein involved in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) maintenance - Tfam[fl/fl]Ubc[Cre-ERT2] (iTfamKO) mice. Systemic TFAM deficiency triggers mitochondrial decline in a myriad of tissues in adult mice. Consequently, iTfamKO mice manifest multiorgan dysfunction including lipodystrophy, sarcopenia, metabolic alterations, kidney failure, neurodegeneration, and locomotor dysregulation, which result in the premature death of these mice. Interestingly, iTfamKO mice display intestinal barrier disruption and gut dysbiosis, with diminished levels of microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyrate. Mice with a deficient proof-reading version of the mtDNA polymerase gamma (mtDNA-mutator mice) phenocopy the dysfunction of the intestinal barrier and bacterial dysbiosis with reduced levels of butyrate, suggesting that different mouse models of mitochondrial dysfunction share insufficient generation of butyrate. Transfer of microbiota from healthy control mice or administration of tributyrin, a butyrate precursor, delay multiple signs of multimorbidity, extending lifespan in iTfamKO mice. Mechanistically, butyrate supplementation recovers epigenetic histone acylation marks that are lost in the intestine of Tfam deficient mice. Overall, our findings highlight the relevance of preserving host-microbiota symbiosis in disorders related to mitochondrial dysfunction.},
}

@article {pmid41826186,
year = {2026},
author = {Boyd, BM and Bush, SE and Dale, C},
title = {Untangling nature's experiment with lice and endosymbiotic bacteria.},
journal = {Trends in parasitology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.pt.2026.01.015},
pmid = {41826186},
issn = {1471-5007},
abstract = {Insects have formed close relationships with endosymbiotic microorganisms, enabling adaptation and promoting diversification. In this review, we examined studies of endosymbiotic bacteria in parasitic lice (Psocodea: Phthiraptera). Lice and their endosymbionts lead fairly secluded lives, with each louse-host and louse-endosymbiont pair evolving in relative isolation. Consequently, each louse lineage and its associated endosymbiont represents natural replicates, useful for understanding how endosymbiosis arises and evolves under similar ecological conditions. While louse endosymbionts are vertically transmitted, they show surprisingly low levels of cospeciation with their louse hosts. Instead, phylogenomic evidence indicates repeated, independent acquisitions of endosymbionts from free-living progenitors. Following each acquisition, endosymbiont lineages experienced elevated evolutionary rates and genomic reduction, losing functionally redundant pathways while retaining functions necessary to maintain the symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid41825597,
year = {2026},
author = {Winberg, A and Sjödin, KS and Öhlund, M and West, CE},
title = {LOSS OF SYMBIOTIC GUT BACTERIA IN CHILDREN AT DIAGNOSIS OF FOOD PROTEIN INDUCED ENTEROCOLITIS SYNDROME.},
journal = {The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jaci.2026.02.043},
pmid = {41825597},
issn = {1097-6825},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Gut microbial composition has been proposed to influence disease onset in children with food protein induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES).

OBJECTIVE: To investigate differences in gut microbiota profiles in children with newly diagnosed FPIES and healthy controls.

METHODS: Fecal samples were collected at FPIES diagnosis from 56 children stratified into three age groups: young infants at mean (SD) age 4.6 (0.5) months, infants at 6.5 (0.6) months and young children, at 11.7 (7.8) months. Gut microbiota profiles were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and compared between children with FPIES and 43 age matched controls.

RESULTS: Age was the strongest determinant of gut microbiota composition, followed by FPIES status. ß-diversity differed significantly between children with FPIES and controls (p<0.01), primarily driven by shifts in Bacteroidota, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, and Verrucomicrobiota. Children with FPIES had lower Bifidobacterium and higher abundances of Bacteroides, Haemophilus, and Veillonella. FPIES food triggers were associated with reduced Verrucomicrobiota abundance.

CONCLUSION: Children with FPIES exhibit gut microbial dysbiosis characterized by reduced Bifidobacterium and Verrucomicrobiota abundance, suggesting potential links between early-life microbiota development and disease pathogenesis.},
}

@article {pmid41825416,
year = {2026},
author = {Gao, T and Li, Y and Yang, N and Liang, X and Lin, L},
title = {Reservoir hydrological fluctuations induce rhizosphere N-cycling divergent patterns: integrating root multi-adaptive strategies perspectives.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {404},
number = {},
pages = {129330},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129330},
pmid = {41825416},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Dam regulation-induced water level fluctuations (WLFs) significantly impact plant distributions and their interactions with microbes in drawdown zones, driving ecosystem functionality and nutrient dynamics. However, an integrated understanding of how periodic WLFs affect root adaptive traits and rhizosphere microbial dynamics to regulate nitrogen cycling remains limited. To address this, we compared WLF-affected zones (Zones I-II) with an unflooded zone (Zone III) to examine root multi-adaptive strategies, microbial structure and assembly, and nitrogen-cycling divergences. Root economics space (RES) results indicated the root nutrient foraging strategy across Zones I-III. Crucially, WLFs promoted convergent resource acquisition strategies (community-weighted mean-based and functional dispersion-based) and shifted root trait networks toward higher path length, diameter, modularity, but lower edge density. We further tested whether these adaptive strategies are related to rhizosphere microbial dynamics. We found that WLFs resulted in diverse and stochastic rhizobacterial distribution, which was induced by 'outsourcing' traits (distributed on one side of the 'collaboration gradient' of RES) and key environmental drivers. Given the reduced linkage in trait networks and destabilized N-functional microbial co-occurrence networks, structural equation modeling indicated that WLFs enhanced symbiotic root-rhizobacteria relationships. Furthermore, functional traits (Root N and root length) and key soil properties jointly suppressed N-transformation in Zone I, while divergently regulated N-fixation, denitrification, and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium in Zone II. The reduction of N-transformation was linked to resource scarcity in Zone III. These findings establish that WLFs foster root-microbe cooperation to regulate N-cycles, providing a theoretical basis for managing reservoir operations and riparian ecological functions.},
}

@article {pmid41825400,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, CZ and Fu, HM and Li, TX and Gao, XY and Hu, Q and Yan, P and Guo, JS and Xu, XW and Chen, YP},
title = {Light-driven community assembly and functional performance of aeration-free filamentous algae-partial nitrification/anammox granule.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {297},
number = {},
pages = {125694},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125694},
pmid = {41825400},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {The algae-partial nitrification/anammox (A-PNA) process offers significant advantages for carbon-neutral wastewater nitrogen removal. This study successfully established a zero-aeration filamentous algal-PNA (FA-PNA) granular system by incorporating Pantanalinema sp. under stepwise increasing light intensities (0, 15, 60 and 90 μmol·m[-2]·s[-1]). Increasing light intensity promoted the enrichment of extracellular polymeric substances and filamentous algae, facilitating granular growth and achieving a nitrogen removal rate of 85 mg N·(L·d)[-1]. Quorum-sensing signaling molecules concentration increased significantly with light intensity, particularly C6-HSL (p < 0.05). Symbiotic network and transcriptomic analyses identified Pantanalinema sp. served as a central interactive hub. It formed potential cross-feeding network with the microorganisms (Nitrosomonas europaea, Candidatus Brocadia sapporoensis, and Denitratisoma sp.) based on B vitamins (vitamin B1, vitamin B2, biotin, folate, and cobalamin) and molybdenum cofactor (MOCO). Under elevated light, these microorganisms upregulated the transcriptional expression levels of key genes involved in B vitamins and MOCO synthesis, signaling molecule production, and reactive oxygen species scavenging, forming an integrated network. This synergistic "stress protection-signaling-metabolite exchange" network effectively alleviated light-induced metabolic suppression. Additionally, Candidatus Brocadia sapporoensis exhibited superior light adaptation potential compared to Candidatus Kuenenia stuttgartiensis_A and Candidatus Jettenia sp., identifying its suitability for FA-PNA systems. Overall, FA-PNA system provides a promising route for low-energy, carbon-negative nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment.},
}

@article {pmid41823843,
year = {2026},
author = {Dong, M and Sun, S},
title = {Root Fungal Endophyte Communities Differ Among Plant Functional Groups in an Alpine Meadow.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology15050415},
pmid = {41823843},
issn = {2079-7737},
abstract = {Disparities in root fungal endophyte (RFE) communities are well documented among plant species, yet differences among plant functional groups (PFGs) remain unclear. Given that RFE community structure is influenced by host plant abundance and species-specific root functional traits, and that PFGs exhibit divergent relative abundances and root traits, we hypothesize that PFGs harbor unique RFE communities, potentially aligned with their functional traits. We investigated RFE communities in 45 alpine meadow species representing four PFGs (grasses, legumes, dicot forbs, and monocot forbs), using high-throughput sequencing. Ascomycota dominated all groups (>50%) except monocot forbs (38.9%). Distinct differences in the RFE community species composition were found among PFGs. In particular, the differences were significant between dicot forbs and monocot forbs, and between monocot forbs and grasses, which contradicted with conventional PFG classification that combined monocot and dicot forbs as a single PFG. Moreover, marker operational taxonomic units (OTUs) with symbiotic lifestyles were more abundant in legumes, and their functional composition differed significantly from grasses. Roots' nitrogen concentration was the strongest predictor of RFE variation, followed by root length, biomass, and species abundance. These results emphasize the importance of integrating microbial partners into understanding plants' functional diversity and ecosystem resilience in alpine environments.},
}

@article {pmid41821961,
year = {2026},
author = {Kawano, K and Morimura, H and Awano, T and Kikuchi, Y and Sawayama, S and Nakagawa, S},
title = {Subcuticular symbionts of intertidal brittle stars: diversity, host specificity, and functional potential.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag034},
pmid = {41821961},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Echinoderms, widely distributed and abundant marine invertebrates, host diverse microbial communities, including subcuticular symbiotic bacteria (SCB). However, the diversity and functional roles of these bacteria remain largely unexplored in intertidal brittle stars. Here, we utilized both culture-dependent and -independent methods to investigate SCBs in three different intertidal brittle star species. Amplicon sequencing revealed distinct subcuticular microbiota among the three brittle star species, with Endozoicomonadaceae dominating in Ophiarachnella gorgonia, Spirochaetota prevalent in O. exigua, and Entomoplasmatales enriched in O. japonicus. Fluorescence in situ hybridization further demonstrated that these bacteria formed microcolonies within the subcuticular space of the arms. We successfully isolated strain ToK13[T], which possesses a nearly identical 16S rRNA gene sequence to that of the predominantly detected SCB. Sequence similarity analysis revealed that ToK13[T] exhibited 98.29%, 98.22%, and 98.16% 16S rRNA gene sequence identities to Kistimonas asteriae KMD 001[T], K. scapharcae JCM 17805[T], and K. alittae BGP-2[T], respectively. This isolate is an obligate aerobic heterotroph i.e. capable of utilizing various monosaccharides. Genomic analysis identified genes associated with host interaction and symbiosis, including those involved in the biosynthesis of multiple vitamins, cofactors, and secondary metabolites with potential antimicrobial activity. Competition assays with co-cultured isolates revealed that strain ToK13[T] inhibits the growth of several bacterial taxa. Collectively, these findings suggest that host-specific SCBs may contribute to the survival strategies of brittle stars by mediating microbial interactions and potentially influencing host fitness.},
}

@article {pmid41821566,
year = {2026},
author = {Pelanda, H and Rulli, E and Sultanov, M and Adornato, S and Rigante, D},
title = {Highlights on the Contribution of Gut Microbiota to Immune-Mediated Diseases in Childhood.},
journal = {Mediterranean journal of hematology and infectious diseases},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {e2026025},
pmid = {41821566},
issn = {2035-3006},
abstract = {The gut microbiota, a vast community of symbiotic microorganisms inhabiting our gut, has been recognized as a key-lever for human health, shaping immune system resilience and being essential for immunological homeostasis throughout the life course. Gut microbiota composition may influence both initiation and/or perpetuation of intestinal inflammation, but recent research has highlighted its contribution to both rising and progression of protean non-intestinal inflammatory diseases: indeed, a perturbation of host-associated microbiota during critical developmental stages like early childhood can directly condition many cellular dynamics and impact long-term health. This narrative review explores the interactions among gut microbiota, physiologic healthy equilibrium, dysbiosis, and immune-mediated non-intestinal inflammatory diseases occurring in childhood, such as inflammasome-based disorders, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Kawasaki disease, and IgA vasculitis, focusing on how microbial changes may alter disease outcomes and suggesting potentially novel therapeutic approaches. Additionally, this review examines the evolution of immune recognition mechanisms and their role in maintaining the gut microbiota-host mutualism as a result of millennia of human co-evolution with the microbial counterpart.},
}

@article {pmid41821210,
year = {2026},
author = {Ren, Y and Yang, C and Ji, H and Xie, K and Mao, H and Zeng, D and Wang, L and Wang, S and Xu, G and Chen, A},
title = {Two mycorrhiza-responsive MADS transcription factors, OsMADS61 and OsMADS26, regulate both direct and mycorrhizal nitrate transport pathways.},
journal = {Journal of integrative plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jipb.70224},
pmid = {41821210},
issn = {1744-7909},
support = {32172670//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Most land plants have evolved both a direct root uptake pathway and a symbiotic pathway, via association with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, to facilitate nutrient acquisition, particularly of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N), from soil. Recently, we revealed a highly efficient symbiotic pathway for nitrate uptake, mediated by an AM-specific NPF/NRT1 transporter, OsNPF4.5, in rice. However, the regulatory mechanism controlling the AM-specialized expression of OsNPF4.5 remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that two cis-acting elements, the CArG and GCC box, are essential for activating the expression of OsNPF4.5 in rice mycorrhizal roots. Deletion of either of the two motifs in its promoter caused almost complete abolition of the promoter activity of OsNPF4.5. An AM-responsive MADS (MCM1, AG, DEFA, and SRF) transcript factor, OsMADS61, could positively regulate OsNPF4.5 and another nitrate transporter gene, OsNRT2.2, involved in direct nitrate uptake. Knockout of OsMADS61 decreased root biomass, N accumulation, and mycorrhization efficiency in its mutants. OsMADS61 could be directly regulated by another AM-upregulated OsMADS paralog, OsMADS26, which itself can also activate OsNPF4.5, OsNRT2.2, and OsNAR2.1, encoding a nitrate transporter-activating protein. Together, our results reveal a dual regulatory role for OsMADS61 and OsMADS26 in governing both direct and symbiotic nitrate uptake pathways.},
}

@article {pmid41820838,
year = {2026},
author = {Açar, İ and Sarpkaya, K and Abid, I and Farooq, S and Yıldız, Z},
title = {Morphological and physiological responses of Pistacia rootstocks to salinity stress and commercial microbial formulation.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12870-026-08568-w},
pmid = {41820838},
issn = {1471-2229},
support = {16128//Harran Üniversitesi/ ; ORF-Ctr-2025-6//King Saud University/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41820734,
year = {2026},
author = {Terkar, A and Raut, A and Kulkarni, J and Barvkar, VT and Borde, M},
title = {Effect of epigenetic modulation on metabolites from endophytes isolated from Embelia ribes.},
journal = {International microbiology : the official journal of the Spanish Society for Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41820734},
issn = {1618-1905},
support = {(UGC-284)//University Grants Commission under Special Assistance Programme (SAP) DSA-I, India ./ ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Fungal endophytes share a symbiotic relationship with the host plants. Endophytes from medicinal plants produce metabolites similar to plants as well as some new metabolites, which serve as a promising medicinal source with, significant potential in the field of biomedicine. Epigenetic modifiers, such as DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors, activate cryptic biosynthesis gene clusters, resulting in a significant increase in cryptic metabolite production. This study elucidated the alteration in the metabolite profiles of two endophytes isolated from the medicinal plant Embelia ribes after treatment with two epigenetic modulators.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study assessed the effect of epigenetic modifiers-Azacitidine (AZ) and Sodium butyrate (SB)-on the metabolite profiles of Phomopsis azadirachtae and Diaporthe phaseolorum. Different concentrations of AZ and SB (1, 10, 50, 100, and 500 mM) were employed to assess their impact on the fungal endophyte cultures. Metabolome analysis was performed to observe the alteration of metabolites.

RESULTS: LC-MS analysis revealed 47 targeted metabolites in the AZ-treated P. azadirachtae culture. Treatment with AZ significantly affected the production of metabolites compared with the control. AZ treatment also altered the production of nine silent metabolites; namely dicerandrol B, phomosine A, epiepoxydon, taxol, cladosporine, phomonaphthalenone A, phomophyllin A, 3-indolepropionic acid (3-IPA) and ergosterol in P. azadirachtae culture. Two metabolites enhanced their production compared to the control. A total of 47 metabolites were identified in P. azadirachtae culture treated with SB, which also altered 11 silent metabolites and enhanced production of six metabolites; cytosporone B, phomophyllin A, phomosine A, phomosin B, laiolactol A, and ergosterol P by logarithmic analysis. Similarly, 41 metabolites were identified in D. phaseolorum culture treated with various concentrations of AZ. In D. phaseolorum culture treated with AZ, an epigenetic modification activated 11 silent metabolites-Cytochalasin N, bostrycoidin, phomonaphthalenone, phomopsterone, dicerandrol A, pinselin, indole-3-acetic acid, betulinic acid, phomophyllin A, dalienxanthone B and phomopoxide A. Two metabolites, phomosine A and zeatin riboside, were enhanced in majority of the AZ treatments compared to control by logarithmic analysis. SB treatment significantly modulated the metabolite profile of D. phaseolorum, with LC-MS analysis detecting 46 targeted compounds across different concentrations. The treatment activated 11 previously silent bioactive metabolites, including Ganodermaside D, lithocarpinol A, dalienxanthone B, cladospirone, dicerandrol B, libertellenone, phomonaphthalenone A, phomopoxide A, phomopsichin B, phomopsterone B, and cladospirone. Three metabolites, pinselin, dicerandrol A, and phmosine A was significantly enhanced in most of the SB treatments compared to control.

CONCLUSION: AZ treatment induced significant, concentration, dependent alterations in the metabolite profile of P. azadirachtae, with the most pronounced effects observed at the P1AZ concentration. Multivariate and clustering analyses revealed clear metabolic differentiation between treated and control cultures. A total of 47 targeted metabolites were detected under AZ treatment, including nine previously silent metabolites consistently induced across all concentrations. Notably, AZ exposure enhanced the production of phomophyllin A and phaseolorine, indicating the selective activation of cryptic biosynthetic pathways in P. azadirachtae. SB treatment significantly altered the secondary metabolite profile of P. azadirachtae in a dose-dependent manner. Metabolomic analysis detected 47 compounds in SB-treated cultures, with the most pronounced metabolic changes observed at the P50SB and P500SB concentrations. SB exposure activated a previously silent biosynthetic gene cluster responsible for the production of 11 metabolites. Furthermore, log fold-change analysis demonstrated significant and consistent upregulation of six metabolites across most SB treatments, highlighting SB's effectiveness in activating cryptic secondary metabolism in P. azadirachtae. In AZ-treated D. phaseolorum cultures, epigenetic alteration triggered 11 metabolites. Log fold change analysis reported significant upregulation of two metabolites. In D. phaseolorum, SB treatments detected 46 targeted compounds across different concentrations. The treatment activated 11 previously silent bioactive metabolites. and significantly increased the levels of three metabolites compared with controls. These findings demonstrate that the epigenetic modulators AZ and SB altered secondary metabolite profiles in fungal endophytes, indicating their potential to activate silent biosynthetic pathways. These findings support their use as exploratory tools for metabolite discovery, while highlighting the need for multi-omics and structural validation in future work.},
}