@article {pmid40170762,
year = {2025},
author = {Condé, TO and Ramos, DO and Nogueira, PTS and Pereira, OL},
title = {Inside out: New root endophytic Penicillium and Talaromyces species isolated from Cattleya orchids (Orchidaceae) in Brazil.},
journal = {Fungal systematics and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {179-200},
pmid = {40170762},
issn = {2589-3831},
abstract = {The Orchidaceae family comprises a highly diverse group of flowering plants. The genus Cattleya is restricted to the Neotropics, with approximately 80 % of the species present in Brazil occurring in epiphytic, rupicolous, and terrestrial habitats. During surveys that aimed to investigate root fungal endophytes of two native orchids, C. locatellii and C. violacea, a total of 10 endophytic isolates were identified as belonging to Eurotiales. A polyphasic approach was applied for the identification and characterization of the cultured species, combining morphological and molecular data. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) of the rDNA, beta-tubulin (BenA), calmodulin (CaM), and RNA polymerase second-largest subunit (RPB2) sequences. Two new endophytic species were identified and described from roots of C. locatellii, namely Penicillium endophyticum sp. nov. (section Aspergilloides), and Talaromyces cattleyae sp. nov. (section Purpurei). In addition, P. yuyongnianii (section Lanata-Divaricata), T. amestolkiae, and T. atkinsoniae (section Talaromyces) were reported as endophytes from the genus Cattleya. Citation: Condé TO, Ramos DO, Nogueira PTS, Pereira OL (2025). Inside out: New root endophytic Penicillium and Talaromyces species isolated from Cattleya orchids (Orchidaceae) in Brazil. Fungal Systematics and Evolution 15: 179-200. doi: 10.3114/fuse.2025.15.08.},
}

@article {pmid40170736,
year = {2024},
author = {Elliot, SL and Montoya, QV and Caixeta, MCS and Rodrigues, A},
title = {The fungus Escovopsis (Ascomycota: Hypocreales): a critical review of its biology and parasitism of attine ant colonies.},
journal = {Frontiers in fungal biology},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {1486601},
pmid = {40170736},
issn = {2673-6128},
abstract = {Two biological phenomena that contribute to increasing complexity in biological systems are mutualistic symbiotic interactions and the evolution of sociality. These two phenomena are also of fundamental importance to our understanding of the natural world. An organism that poses a threat to one or both of these is therefore also of great interest as it represents a challenge that mutualistic symbioses and social organisms have to overcome. This is the case with the fungus Escovopsis (Ascomycota: Hypocreales), which attacks the fungus garden of attine ants (Formicidae: Attina) such as the leaf cutters. This parasite has attracted much high-profile scientific interest for considerable time, and its study has been fruitful in understanding evolutionary, ecological and behavioural processes. Despite this, much of the biology and ecology of this organism remains unknown. Here we discuss this fungus and three sister genera (Escovopsioides, Luteomyces and Sympodiorosea) that until recently were considered as a single group. We first describe its position as the most highly specialised microbial symbiont in this system other than the mutualistic fungal cultivar itself and as that of greatest scientific interest. We then review the taxonomic history of the group and its macroevolution and biogeography. We examine what we know of its life cycle in the field - surprisingly little is known of how it is transmitted between colonies, but we explain what is known to date. We then review how it interacts with its host(s), first at the level of its direct interaction with the basidiomycete host fungi wherein we show the evidence for it being a mycoparasite; then at the colony level where empirical evidence points towards it being a parasite with a very low virulence or even merely a opportunist. Finally, we offer directions for future research.},
}

@article {pmid40170348,
year = {2025},
author = {Montesinos-Navarro, A and Collins, S and Dumitru, C and Verdú, M},
title = {Phylogenetic relatedness predicts plant-plant nitrogen transfer better than the duration of water scarcity periods.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70116},
pmid = {40170348},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {ACIF/2020/302//Generalitat Valenciana/ ; CIPROM/2021/63//Generalitat Valenciana/ ; GRISOLIAP/2020/011//Generalitat Valenciana/ ; CNS2023-144743//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades/ ; PID2020-113157GB-I00//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades/ ; },
abstract = {Intermittent water availability is a significant stress factor for plants, particularly in arid and semi-arid ecosystems. Plant nutrient demands often do not align with precipitation pulses that trigger nutrient mobilization and availability, but biotic interactions like plant facilitation (e.g. through nitrogen transfer among distant relatives) and mycorrhizal symbiosis may mitigate this asynchrony, enabling nutrient access despite temporal disparities. We conducted a field experiment with 324 plant individuals to test two hypotheses: (1) greater mycorrhizal fungi abundance increases the amount of [15]N transferred between plants, particularly under conditions of fluctuating water availability, and (2) the amount of [15]N transferred is affected by the phylogenetic relatedness between donor and receiver plants. We show that [15]N transfer is prevalent in the studied semi-arid communities, occurring between all species pairs in 68% of the trials. Interestingly, we observed an increase in [15]N transfer between distantly related species, and this phylogenetic pattern remained consistent across fungicide and water regime treatments, which did not affect [15]N transfer. Elucidating the drivers of N transfer between plants under different environmental conditions can improve our predictions on how plant communities will respond to future climate challenges, especially prolonged droughts in Mediterranean ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid40168827,
year = {2025},
author = {Chowdhury, SR and Mitra, B and Ghannam, M and Kumar, U and Rahman, SM and Mozumder, MS},
title = {Symbiosis, zero-waste goal and resource-sharing potential for UAE industries.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {380},
number = {},
pages = {125128},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125128},
pmid = {40168827},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {At present, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the largest economies with tremendous opportunities in the Middle East. However, unsustainable resource consumption and a linear economy have significantly altered the UAE's economic patterns, making it one of the major greenhouse emitters in the world. The government introduced a few approaches to limit fossil-based energy, along with some scattered resource recycling initiatives; however, the fundamental economic cycle is not adequately structured to maximize resource utilization and foster economic circulation. In this circumstance, industrial symbiosis (IS) can be an effective approach to reshaping the economic structure while achieving financial objectives. IS refers to a structured approach in which waste materials or byproducts from one industry are fully utilized by others, ensuring economic benefits with minimal ecological impact. Therefore, the current study presents a critical analysis of the existing IS case studies pertinent to the UAE's major industries and illustrates the synergy necessary to adopt a potential symbiotic relationship in the major industrial chains. Initially, the nation's socioeconomic trends were analyzed to explore their connections with 12 successful IS case studies, aiming to develop a robust methodology for the UAE. Further, a novel conceptual framework has been developed for IS implementation in the UAE with the corresponding quantitative assessment for a zero-waste initiative that can be obtained through our proposed symbiotic relationship in the UAE industries. Present discrete sustainable industrial facilities were also mentioned so that they can be incorporated into closed symbiotic relationships for more economic benefits through an adequate IS strategy. Future studies, however, should consider the limitations of industrial byproducts and mechanical improvements in the processing of crucial resources like wastewater or solid waste in the country.},
}

@article {pmid40168372,
year = {2025},
author = {Godjo, A and Donald, DM and Ansaldi, L and Darwish, IAA and Byrne, JL and Kakouli-Duarte, T},
title = {Effects of hexavalent chromium on the biology of Steinernema feltiae: evaluating sublethal endpoints for ecotoxicity testing.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {4},
pages = {e0320329},
pmid = {40168372},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Animals ; *Chromium/toxicity ; Soil Pollutants/toxicity ; Rhabditida/drug effects ; Moths/parasitology ; Ecotoxicology ; },
abstract = {Essential information about the effects of a pollutant on an ecosystem can be obtained by observing how it influences a bioindicator organism. Hexavalent chromium (Cr VI+) naturally occurs in Irish agricultural soils at levels of up to 250 mg/kg, which raises concerns about potential negative impacts on human health and the surrounding areas. This research aimed to assess the sublethal effect concentrations (up to 300 ppm) of Cr VI + on the entomopathogenic nematode (EPN) Steinernema feltiae focusing on endpoints such as nematode movement and host finding ability in contaminated sand and pathogenicity, percentage penetration, sex ratio and reproduction in Galleria mellonella. To achieve that, an Irish isolate of S. feltiae [strain SB 12 (1)], was used in all experiments. The attraction of nematodes to the insect host was tested using PVC tubes of various lengths, containing sand with various concentrations of Cr VI + (50-300 ppm in increments of 50). The replication was tenfold and the insect mortality was recorded at the end of the experiment. Results showed that there was a significant effect of Cr VI + on the pathogenicity, movement and host finding ability of the nematodes in contaminated sand, and on the percentage of penetration in an insect host. However, no significant effects among the studied Cr VI + concentrations were observed in S. feltiae reproduction in G. mellonella. Similarly, the presence of the toxicant (at low concentration of 12ppm) did not affect the growth of the nematode symbiotic bacteria in liquid and solid media (TSA and NBTA). Reproduction, unlike the other sublethal parameters tested, appeared not to be an optimal endpoint for assessing soil Cr VI + risk contamination. Overall, this study confirms the excellent potential of S. feltiae to be used as a suitable sentinel organism in assessing the risk of Cr VI + soil contamination especially in the contexts of agriculture and soil health.},
}

Animals
*Chromium/toxicity
Soil Pollutants/toxicity
Rhabditida/drug effects
Moths/parasitology
Ecotoxicology

@article {pmid40166960,
year = {2025},
author = {Ahmad, F and Jinhao, H and Nawaz, MZ and Dar, MA and Nasser, R and Haider, SZ and Haq, WU and Sun, J and Mo, J and Zhu, D},
title = {Lignin disruption and ligninolytic enzyme activity in the symbiotic system of the Macrotermes barneyi termite.},
journal = {Insect science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/1744-7917.70026},
pmid = {40166960},
issn = {1744-7917},
support = {32250410285//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; BK20220003//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; WGXZ2023020L//the Foreign Expert Program under the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) of China/ ; 2023YFC3403600//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; BE2021691//Key Research and Development Program of Jiangsu Province/ ; },
abstract = {Fungus-farming termites efficiently degrade recalcitrant lignocellulose through a symbiotic relationship with Termitomyces and the gut microbiome, making them successful key decomposers in (sub)tropical ecosystems. Despite extensive research on plant biomass decomposition, the mechanisms of lignin degradation in fungus-farming termites remain elusive. In view of this information gap, the present study employed several analytical approaches and ligninolytic enzyme assays to investigate lignin modification in the symbiotic system of a fungus-farming termite, Macrotermes barneyi. The results revealed the structural modification of lignin across different points of the degradation process. Enzyme assays of termite guts and fungus combs showed the obvious differences in ligninolytic enzyme activity at different sites of decomposition, likely initiating the modification of lignin. The findings of the current study support the hypothesis that although young workers start the modification of lignin to some extent, they largely leave the lignin monomers p-hydroxyphenyl (H), guaiacyl (G) and syringyl (S) intact. Most of the lignin-derived compounds are transferred to the fresh comb, where the majority of lignin modification begins and continues in mature and older parts of the comb. This study provides new insights into biomass degradation within the microsymbiotic system of an insect. A better understanding of these mechanisms has the promising potential for unlocking new lignin-degrading agents for the production of renewable energy.},
}

@article {pmid40166043,
year = {2025},
author = {Feng, T and Li, J and Mao, X and Jin, X and Cheng, L and Xie, H and Ma, Y},
title = {A comparative analysis of the rhizosphere microbial communities among three species of the Salix genus.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {e19182},
pmid = {40166043},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {*Salix/microbiology ; *Rhizosphere ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Fungi/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Microbiota/genetics ; Bacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Rhizosphere microorganisms exert a significant influence in counteracting diverse external stresses and facilitating plant nutrient uptake. While certain rhizosphere microorganisms associated with Salix species have been investigated, numerous rhizosphere microorganisms from various Salix species remain underexplored. In this study, we employed high-throughput sequencing to examine the rhizosphere bacterial and fungal communities composition and diversity of three Salix species: Salix zangica (SZ), Salix myrtilllacea (SM), and Salix cheilophila (SC). Furthermore, the BugBase and FUNGuild were utilized to predict the functional roles of bacterial and fungal microorganisms. The findings revealed notable variations in the alpha and beta diversities of bacterial and fungal communities among the three Salix species exhibited significant differences (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Flavobacterium was highest in the SZ samples, while Microvirga exhibited significant enrichment in the SM samples. Microvirga and Vishniacozyma demonstrate the highest number of nodes within their respective bacterial and fungal community network structures. The functions of bacterial microorganisms, including Gram-positive, potentially pathogenic, Gram-negative, and stress-tolerant types, exhibited significant variation among the three Salix species (p < 0.05). Furthermore, for the function of fungal microbe, the ectomycorrhizal guild had the highest abundance of symbiotic modes. This results demonstrated the critical role of ectomycorrhizal fungi in enhancing nutrient absorption and metabolism during the growth of Salix plants. Additionally, this findings also suggested that S. zangica plant was better well-suited for cultivation in stressful environments. These findings guide future questions about plant-microbe interactions, greatly enhancing our understanding of microbial communities for the healthy development of Salix plants.},
}

*Salix/microbiology
*Rhizosphere
*Soil Microbiology
*Fungi/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Microbiota/genetics
Bacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Plant Roots/microbiology

@article {pmid40165074,
year = {2025},
author = {Luo, CY and Lu, Y and Su, L and Liu, JJ and Miao, JY and Lin, YC and Lin, LB},
title = {Whole genome sequencing and analysis of the symbiotic Armillaria gallica M3 with Gastrodia elata.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {324},
pmid = {40165074},
issn = {1471-2164},
mesh = {*Symbiosis/genetics ; *Gastrodia/genetics/microbiology ; *Armillaria/genetics ; *Whole Genome Sequencing/methods ; Genome, Fungal ; Molecular Sequence Annotation ; Host-Pathogen Interactions/genetics ; Genomics/methods ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: On the one hand, Armillaria is regarded as a plant disease that causes serious root rot of forest trees, on the other hand, Armillaria is also an important symbiotic fungi of the valuable Chinese herb Gastrodia elata. Currently, the whole genome database of Armillaria is relatively limited, and it is expected that a more comprehensive understanding of the symbiotic interactions between Armillaria and G. elata can be achieved through genome-wide comparisons and functional annotations. Whole genome sequencing of Armillaria gallica M3 strain was performed using Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencing platform, and the sequencing data were used to perform genome assembly, gene prediction and functional annotation, carbohydrate-active enzymes, and host-pathogen interactions using bioinformatics methods.

RESULTS: In this study, we obtained an 83.33 M genome of A. gallica M3 strain, which consisted of 38 overlapping clusters with an N50 of 6,065,498 bp and a GC content of 47.43%. A total of 12,557 genes were identified in the genome of A. gallica M3, and the repetitive sequences accounted for about 44.36% of the genome. 42.26% of the genome was composed of glycoside hydrolases (GHs), 16.15% of the genome was composed of glycosyltransferases (GTs). In addition, 3412 genes in A. gallica M3 were involved in the host-pathogen interaction mechanism.

CONCLUSIONS: These results have elucidated the characteristics of A. gallica M3 from a genomic perspective to a certain extent. They help to analyze the inner mechanism of A. gallica M3 being able to symbiosis with G. elata at the genomic level, which is of great significance to the next related research of A. gallica M3.},
}

*Symbiosis/genetics
*Gastrodia/genetics/microbiology
*Armillaria/genetics
*Whole Genome Sequencing/methods
Genome, Fungal
Molecular Sequence Annotation
Host-Pathogen Interactions/genetics
Genomics/methods

@article {pmid40165055,
year = {2025},
author = {Jia, T and Zhang, W and Zhu, W and Fan, L},
title = {Intermittent fasting driven different adaptive strategies in Eothenomys miletus (Red-backed vole) at different altitudes: based on the patterns of variations in intestinal microbiota.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {185},
pmid = {40165055},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {32160254//National Natural Scientific Foundation of China/ ; 32060115//National Natural Scientific Foundation of China/ ; 202401AS070039//Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Arvicolinae/microbiology/physiology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Altitude ; *Fasting/physiology ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; *RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Adaptation, Physiological ; Phylogeny ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; Male ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Intermittent Fasting ; },
abstract = {In the face of global warming, the Eothenomys miletus (Red - backed vole), a species dwelling in highland mountainous regions, is likely to encounter difficulties. Given its restricted mobility, it may struggle with the uncertainty of food resources. In such circumstances, it becomes increasingly crucial for this species to adjust its diverse responses to fulfill its energy requirements. E. miletus specimens were gathered from different altitudes for intermittent fasting (IF) experiments. In these experiments, the specimens underwent random fasting for 3 days within a seven - day cycle. 16 S rDNA sequencing technology, combined with physiological and biochemical assessment methods, was employed to analyze the impacts of IF on gut microorganisms, physiological and biochemical indicators, and the interactions among them. By exploring the adaptive responses of E. miletus to uncertain food resources, which provides novel perspectives on the adaptive strategies of small rodents in the wild during food-scarce periods. The results showed that IF significantly reduced the body mass of E. miletus. Significant correlations were found between various gut microbes and physiological indicators. Under IF conditions, E. miletus at high altitudes experienced a smaller reduction in body mass compared to those at low altitudes. Moreover, the diversity of gut microbes and endemic bacteria in E. miletus at high altitudes varied more than that of low altitudes. The differential response in body mass reduction between high-altitude and low-altitude E. miletus under IF conditions indicated that altitude is an important factor influencing the physiological adaptation of this species to dietary changes. High-altitude E. miletus showed a relatively smaller decrease in body mass, potentially reflecting their better adaptation to environmental stressors over time. Additionally, the greater variation in gut microbe diversity and endemic bacteria in high-altitude E. miletus implied that altitude may shape the gut microbiota, which in turn could be related to their unique physiological adaptations at high altitudes. Overall, E. miletus at high altitude may possess more stable regulatory mechanisms, demonstrating better adaptation under IF conditions. These findings provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between diet, altitude, and gut microbiota in the context of E. miletus physiology, highlighting the importance of considering both environmental and microbial factors in understanding the species' responses to nutritional challenges. .},
}

Animals
*Arvicolinae/microbiology/physiology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Altitude
*Fasting/physiology
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
*RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Adaptation, Physiological
Phylogeny
DNA, Bacterial/genetics
Male
DNA, Ribosomal/genetics
Sequence Analysis, DNA
Intermittent Fasting

@article {pmid40164744,
year = {2025},
author = {Borda, V and Burni, M and Cofré, N and Longo, S and Mansur, T and Ortega, G and Urcelay, C},
title = {Does the flavonoid quercetin influence the generalist-selective nature of mycorrhizal interactions in invasive and non-invasive native woody plants?.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {35},
number = {2},
pages = {25},
pmid = {40164744},
issn = {1432-1890},
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology/drug effects ; *Quercetin/pharmacology ; *Introduced Species ; Phosphorus/metabolism ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; },
abstract = {It has been suggested that invasive plant species are more generalist than non-invasive species in their interactions with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), allowing them to associate with novel AMF communities. There is emerging evidence suggesting that the flavonoid quercetin may play a role in regulating these interactions as a signaling compound. In this study, we experimentally grew three invasive alien and three non-invasive native woody species with AMF communities collected from within (though foreign to invasives) and outside their current distribution ranges. After 96 days, we: (a) assessed mycorrhizal colonization rates; (b) evaluated the impact of these interactions on plant performance (growth and phosphorus nutrition); and (c) tested whether these responses were influenced by the addition of quercetin to the plant growth medium. Our findings reveal that the invasive species exhibited mycorrhizal colonization when grown with both novel AMF communities and benefited from them in terms of phosphorus (P) nutrition. In contrast, two of the three non- invasive native species showed mycorrhizal colonization and enhanced P nutrition only with AMF from their current distribution range, but not with novel AMF from outside their range, suggesting selective behavior in their mycorrhizal interactions. The addition of quercetin did not have a strong effect on mycorrhizal colonization in either invasive or non-invasive native species. However, quercetin promoted moderate increases in P nutrition in the two non-invasive native species when grown with the novel AMF communities. Overall, the results suggest that invasive species are more generalist in their AM symbiosis than two of the three non-invasive species, and that the addition of quercetin had a limited, moderate influence on their AM interactions.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology/drug effects
*Quercetin/pharmacology
*Introduced Species
Phosphorus/metabolism
Plant Roots/microbiology

@article {pmid40163583,
year = {2025},
author = {Meher, R and Matheshwaran, M and Sharma, NK},
title = {Sustainable treatment of surgical cotton processing effluent through coupled biological and photocatalytic reactors.},
journal = {Environmental technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/09593330.2025.2485353},
pmid = {40163583},
issn = {1479-487X},
abstract = {The growing demand for surgical cotton in the healthcare sector has led to increased production in southern Tamil Nadu, generating effluents that pose environmental risks due to their chemical composition. Unlike conventional textile effluents, surgical cotton processing wastewater is distinct for its lack of colour additive, but it exhibits high chemical oxygen demand (COD) and contains significant inorganic pollutants, necessitating tailored treatment strategies. Despite extensive research on textile wastewater, effective solutions for surgical cotton effluents remain underexplored. This research bridges this gap by exploring a novel synergic method, algae-bacterial symbiosis combined with photocatalytic degradation for real surgical cotton effluent, in order to ultimately improve the removal ability of the contaminants. The general aim was to study the performance of three continuous reactor, a photocatalytic reactor, a biological rector and coupled biological-photocatalytic (CBPCR) reactor in the degradation of surgical cotton processing effluent during 30 days. The treatment efficacy was measured by observing the removal rates of inorganic nutrient, COD, and microbial growth. It was concluded that the CBPCR system successfully removed nitrate, phosphate, ammonia, and COD by 90%, 87%, 75%, and 93% respectively. In particular, the system fostered vigorous growth of both microalgae and bacteria, as indicated by a total chlorophyll concentration of 20.1 ± 0.91 mg/L and a dry cell weight of 1.81 ± 0.09 g/L. This paper shows the feasibility of the CBPCR system as a green, sustainable strategy for the treatment of surgical cotton effluent and as such fills a gap in current practice of industrial wastewater treatment.},
}

@article {pmid40163410,
year = {2025},
author = {Kuo, WN and Chen, PJ and Guo, ZL and Ho, MC and Ting, CL and Yang, SY},
title = {Production of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) Fungal Inoculum and Phenotypic Evaluation of Rice and AM Symbiosis Under Saline Conditions.},
journal = {Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE},
volume = {},
number = {217},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3791/67580},
pmid = {40163410},
issn = {1940-087X},
mesh = {*Oryza/microbiology ; *Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Symbiosis/physiology ; Phenotype ; Fungi ; },
abstract = {Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a vital food crop for more than half of the global population. However, its growth is severely impacted by saline soils, which present a significant challenge to crop production worldwide. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, which form mutualistic symbiotic relationships with over 90% of agricultural plants and 80% of terrestrial plant species, have been shown to enhance the salt tolerance of rice plants. AM fungi are obligate symbionts that cannot complete their life cycle without a host root. Therefore, effectively utilizing plants to produce AM fungal inoculum is crucial for advancing research in this field. In this study, we present a series of robust methods that begin with generating sand inoculum containing spores of Rhizophagus irregularis using Allium tuberosum L. These methods include inoculating rice seedlings with the sand inoculum, analyzing the growth phenotype of mycorrhizal rice, and quantifying fungal colonization levels using trypan blue staining under salt stress. These approaches can efficiently generate AM fungal inoculum for further investigation into how AM symbiosis enhances the salinity tolerance of rice.},
}

*Oryza/microbiology
*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Symbiosis/physiology
Phenotype
Fungi

@article {pmid40162784,
year = {2025},
author = {Hong, M and Tian, F and Song, Z and Liu, H and Tong, Y and Zhang, T},
title = {A novel tobamo-like mycovirus with filamentous particles replicates in plant cells.},
journal = {Journal of virology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0210224},
doi = {10.1128/jvi.02102-24},
pmid = {40162784},
issn = {1098-5514},
abstract = {Parasitic and symbiotic plant-fungus relationships have existed for millions of years, and phylogenetic analyses of certain virus families indicate transmission between plants and fungi. A group of tobamo-like viruses from various fungi has recently been identified. Tobamo-like viruses are homologous to plant viruses of the Tobamovirus genus in the Virgaviridae family, but it was unknown whether they form typical virus particles and can replicate and exhibit cell-to-cell movement in plants. Here, a novel tobamo-like virus, Nigrospora aurantiaca tobamo-like virus 1 (NaTLV1), obtained from the phytopathogenic fungus Nigrospora aurantiaca, was characterized. Its genome (10,301 nucleotides) comprises four open reading frames (ORFs) and a poly(A) tail. ORF1 encodes a methyltransferase and helicase, and ORF2 encodes RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, which are closely related to proteins of Virgaviridae viruses. ORF3 encodes a putative movement protein, and ORF4 encodes a putative coat protein, which are closely related to proteins of Gammaflexiviridae and Betaflexiviridae viruses. NaTLV1 formed filamentous virus particles and could replicate in Nicotiana benthamiana. However, the cell-to-cell movement of NaTLV1 was not observed in N. benthamiana but could not be ruled out. NaTLV1 underwent horizontal and vertical transmissions via hyphal anastomosis and conidia, respectively. There were no significant differences in phenotype or virulence between NaTLV1-infected (A4) and NaTLV1-free (V1) N. aurantiaca strains. In general, our findings may be useful in elucidating the origination and evolution of tobamo-like viruses, plant virus families (Virgaviridae and Betaflexiviridae), and a fungal virus family (Gammaflexiviridae).IMPORTANCECross-kingdom infections involving plant- and fungal-associated viruses have been directly observed in nature, and some of these viruses share a high degree of genetic similarity. A group of novel tobamo-like viruses with nonsegmented single-stranded RNA genomes was recently isolated from diverse fungal groups. Here, we identified a novel virus, Nigrospora aurantiaca tobamo-like virus 1 (NaTLV1), in the phytopathogenic fungus Nigrospora aurantiaca. NaTLV1 was phylogenetically related to other tobamo-like viruses, plant-associated viruses in the Virgaviridae and Betaflexiviridae families, and fungus-associated viruses in the Gammaflexiviridae family. NaTLV1 formed filamentous virus particles and could replicate in Nicotiana benthamiana, but the cell-to-cell movement of NaTLV1 was not observed. This study provides potential insights into the origins and evolution of mycoviruses originating from plant viruses and indicates that tobamo-like viruses may have adapted to an intracellular lifestyle during evolution. The identification of novel tobamo-like viruses is crucial for understanding fungal and plant virus evolution.},
}

@article {pmid40162002,
year = {2025},
author = {Ahmed, N and Li, J and Li, Y and Deng, L and Deng, L and Chachar, M and Chachar, Z and Chachar, S and Hayat, F and Raza, A and Umrani, JH and Gong, L and Tu, P},
title = {Symbiotic synergy: How Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi enhance nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and soil health through molecular mechanisms and hormonal regulation.},
journal = {IMA fungus},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {e144989},
pmid = {40162002},
issn = {2210-6340},
abstract = {Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis is integral to sustainable agriculture and enhances plant resilience to abiotic and biotic stressors. Through their symbiotic association with plant roots, AM improves nutrient and water uptake, activates antioxidant defenses, and facilitates hormonal regulation, contributing to improved plant health and productivity. Plants release strigolactones, which trigger AM spore germination and hyphal branching, a process regulated by genes, such as D27, CCD7, CCD8, and MAX1. AM recognition by plants is mediated by receptor-like kinases (RLKs) and LysM domains, leading to the formation of arbuscules that optimize nutrient exchange. Hormonal regulation plays a pivotal role in this symbiosis; cytokinins enhance AM colonization, auxins support arbuscule formation, and brassinosteroids regulate root growth. Other hormones, such as salicylic acid, gibberellins, ethylene, jasmonic acid, and abscisic acid, also influence AM colonization and stress responses, further bolstering plant resilience. In addition to plant health, AM enhances soil health by improving microbial diversity, soil structure, nutrient cycling, and carbon sequestration. This symbiosis supports soil pH regulation and pathogen suppression, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers and improving soil fertility. To maximize AM 's potential of AM in agriculture, future research should focus on refining inoculation strategies, enhancing compatibility with different crops, and assessing the long-term ecological and economic benefits. Optimizing AM applications is critical for improving agricultural resilience, food security, and sustainable farming practices.},
}

@article {pmid40161691,
year = {2025},
author = {Tekle, YI and Smith, AR and McGinnis, M and Ghebezadik, S and Patel, P},
title = {A new Paramoeba Isolate from Florida Exhibits a Microtubule-Bound Endosymbiont Closely Associated with the Host Nucleus.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1101/2025.03.10.642444},
pmid = {40161691},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {The genera Paramoeba and Neoparamoeba , within the family Paramoebidae (order Dactylopodida), are distinguished by their dactylopodial pseudopodia and the presence of an intracellular eukaryotic symbiont, the Perkinsela -like organism (PLO). Taxonomic classification within these genera has been challenging due to overlapping morphological traits and close phylogenetic relationships. Most species are marine, with some acting as significant parasites, contributing to sea urchin mass mortality and serving as causative agents of Amoebic Gill Disease (AGD). Despite their ecological and economic importance, many aspects of their diversity, biology, evolution, and host interactions remain poorly understood. In this study, we describe a novel amoeba species, Paramoeba daytoni n. sp., isolated from Daytona Beach, Florida. Morphological and molecular analyses confirm its placement within the Paramoeba clade, closely related to P. eilhardi, P. karteshi, and P. aparasomata . Phylogenetic assessments using 18S and COI markers demonstrate the limitations of 18S gene for species delineation, highlighting COI as a more reliable genetic marker for this group. Additionally, observations on PLO morphology, movement, and microtubule association provide insights into the endosymbiotic relationship, reinforcing the need for further research into this unique eukaryote-eukaryote symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid40161242,
year = {2025},
author = {Weeraphan, T and Chou, C and Chanthathamrongsiri, N and Sirirak, T and Putchakarn, S and Chamni, S and Phongsopitanun, W},
title = {Microbiome profiling and Actinomycetes isolation from tropical marine sponges.},
journal = {AIMS microbiology},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {182-205},
pmid = {40161242},
issn = {2471-1888},
abstract = {Marine sponges are well-known for their production of bioactive compounds, many of which are synthesized by their associated symbiotic microorganisms. Among these, Actinomycetes are of particular interest due to their ability to produce secondary metabolites with antimicrobial and antitumor activities. We aimed to investigate the bacterial microbiome of tropical marine sponges, with an emphasis on the diversity and distribution of Actinomycetes, employing both culture-dependent and culture-independent approaches. Five sponge samples (PF01-PF05) were collected from Sichang Island, Chonburi Province, Thailand. The bacterial communities were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and bioinformatics tools, revealing a significant microbial diversity dominated by Cyanobacteria, Actinomycetota, and Chloroflexi. Notably, PF01 (Penares nux) exhibited the highest microbial diversity, while PF05 (Cacospongia sp.) had the lowest. Actinomycetes, particularly the genus Micromonospora, were successfully isolated from all samples, with PF03 (Ircinia mutans) yielding the highest number of strains. Culture-independent analysis identified a greater proportion of unculturable Actinomycetes compared to those isolated through traditional methods, underscoring the limitations of culture-dependent techniques. This study enhances our understanding of sponge-associated microbial diversity and highlights the potential for isolating Actinomycetes from these sponges for novel drug discovery and other bioprospective applications.},
}

@article {pmid40160273,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, Y and Ying, Y and Li, Y and Zhang, W and Shu, J},
title = {Symbiotic bacteria associated with different species of Curculio (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and their host plants.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1531847},
pmid = {40160273},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Bacteria often play important roles in the host adaptation of phytophagous insects. Beetles of the genus Curculio (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) include pest species that bore into the seeds of trees in the family Fagaceae and damage the cotyledons. At present, there are few studies of the taxonomic diversity and functional effects of symbiotic bacteria involved in changes in host ranges and host adaptation of Curculio. Here, we used 16S rRNA gene Illumina and metagenomic sequencing to compare the composition and functions of the bacterial communities of three species of host plants and several Curculio species combinations: Curculio bimaculatus feeding on Castanopsis sclerophylla, C. bimaculatus feeding on Castanopsis tibetana, and Curculio davidi feeding on Ca. tibetana. The host plants influenced the diversity of symbiotic bacteria, while the Curculio species influenced the community structure of the symbiotic bacteria. Functional predictions showed that symbiotic bacteria contributed to the metabolism of the hosts. However, consistent with the variation in bacteria, the major metabolism-related bacterial genera varied among the treatment groups. Comparisons of metabolic enzymes based on KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) annotation revealed differences in the enzymes involved in insect development and detoxification of plant secondary compounds among the three groups, and the patterns were influenced by the dominance of the Curculio species on the host plants. This study provides valuable insights into the possible role of symbiotic bacteria in Curculio as host insects.},
}

@article {pmid40159598,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, CK and Liu, ZZ and Peng, ZR and Luo, XY and Zhang, XM and Zhang, JG and Zhang, L and Chen, W and Yang, YJ},
title = {M28 family peptidase derived from Peribacillus frigoritolerans initiates trained immunity to prevent MRSA via the complosome-phosphatidylcholine axis.},
journal = {Gut microbes},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2484386},
pmid = {40159598},
issn = {1949-0984},
mesh = {*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/immunology ; Animals ; Mice ; *Staphylococcal Infections/prevention & control/immunology/microbiology ; *Phosphatidylcholines/metabolism ; Bacillaceae/enzymology ; Peptide Hydrolases/metabolism ; Macrophages/immunology/microbiology/drug effects/metabolism ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Phagocytosis/drug effects ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics/immunology ; Liposomes/metabolism ; Female ; Trained Immunity ; },
abstract = {Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) represents a major global health threat due to its resistance to conventional antibiotics. The commensal microbiota maintains a symbiotic relationship with the host, playing essential roles in metabolism, energy regulation, immune modulation, and pathogen control. Mammals harbor a wide range of commensal bacteria capable of producing unique metabolites with potential therapeutic properties. This study demonstrated that M28 family peptidase (M28), derived from commensal bacteria Peribacillus frigoritolerans (P. f), provided protective effects against MRSA-induced pneumonia. M28 enhanced the phagocytosis and bactericidal activity of macrophages by inducing trained immunity. RNA sequencing and metabolomic analyses identified the CFB-C3a-C3aR-HIF-1α axis-mediated phosphatidylcholine accumulation as the key mechanism for M28-induced trained immunity. Phosphatidylcholine, like M28, also induced trained immunity. To enhance M28-mediated therapeutic potential, it was encapsulated in liposomes (M28-LNPs), which exhibited superior immune-stimulating properties compared to M28 alone. In vivo experiments revealed that M28-LNPs significantly reduced bacterial loads and lung damage following MRSA infection, which also provided enhanced protection against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida albicans. We first confirmed a link between complement activation and trained immunity, offering valuable insights into the treatment and prevention of complement-related autoimmune diseases.},
}

*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/immunology
Animals
Mice
*Staphylococcal Infections/prevention & control/immunology/microbiology
*Phosphatidylcholines/metabolism
Bacillaceae/enzymology
Peptide Hydrolases/metabolism
Macrophages/immunology/microbiology/drug effects/metabolism
Mice, Inbred C57BL
Phagocytosis/drug effects
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics/immunology
Liposomes/metabolism
Female
Trained Immunity

@article {pmid40158344,
year = {2025},
author = {Rebelo, A and Farabegoli, G},
title = {Water circularity index: A novel approach for authorities and operators.},
journal = {Chemosphere},
volume = {377},
number = {},
pages = {144366},
doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2025.144366},
pmid = {40158344},
issn = {1879-1298},
abstract = {The "transition to a circular economy" is frequently articulated in conventional frameworks regarding water use efficiency, predominantly emphasizing quantitative dimensions. However, water is ubiquitous, and its various applications are often directly or indirectly interlinked. Examining water quantity and quality within the water usage cycle is imperative to ensure security and optimise added value throughout the process while promoting the natural values of the surrounding environment. The present study introduces an innovative metric known as the Water Circularity Index (IC) that encompasses the complex balance between water quantity and quality throughout the water cycle at urban and industrial installation levels. The methodology for developing the IC is supported by a Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis, where key factors are divided into sub-factors categorised and weighted. The IC comprises eleven key factors, including freshwater consumption, wastewater discharge, water reuse, best management practices and technologies, hazardous substances defined under the Water Framework Directive, microplastics and emerging contaminants, biodiversity, nutrient recovery, internal industrial symbiosis, sludge management, and voluntary or incentive-based instruments. For each key factor, inputs are classified as negative, neutral, or positive, with final results categorised into five levels: negative circularity, no circularity, and low, medium, or high circularity. The index was applied to facilities across seven countries, encompassing fourteen installations across various industrial sectors and urban wastewater treatment plants, showing the versatility of the index in promoting best practices in multiple processes. In one case study involving a pulp mill, the IC was computed before and after the revision of its environmental permit. This assessment facilitated an evaluation of the measures implemented during the transition from a discharge permit aligned exclusively with the Industrial Emissions Directive principles to an integrated water management approach that integrated both directives' frameworks. The findings revealed a substantial improvement in the plant's performance, progressing from negative to medium circularity.},
}

@article {pmid40158196,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, CX and Chen, SJ and Hong, XY and Wang, LZ and Wu, HM and Tang, YY and Gao, YY and Hao, GF},
title = {Plant Exudates Driven Microbiome Recruitment and Assembly Facilitates Plant Health Management.},
journal = {FEMS microbiology reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/femsre/fuaf008},
pmid = {40158196},
issn = {1574-6976},
abstract = {Plant-microbiome symbiotic interactions play a crucial role in regulating plant health and productivity. To establish symbiotic relationships, the plant secretes a variety of substances to facilitate microbial community recruitment and assembly. In recent years, important progress has been made in studying how plant exudates attract beneficial microorganisms and regulate plant health. However, the mechanisms of plant exudates-mediated microbial community recruitment and assembly and their effects on plant health are no comprehensive review. Here, we summaries the interaction mechanisms among plant exudates, microbial community recruitment and assembly, and plant health. First, we systematically evaluate the type and distribution of plant exudates, as well as their role in microbiome recruitment and assembly. Second, we summarize the mechanisms of plant exudates in terms of microbiome recruitment, diversity regulation and chemotaxis. Finally, we list some typical examples for elucidating the importance of plant exudates in promoting plant health and development. This review contributes to utilizing plant exudate or beneficial microbiome resources to manage plant health and productivity.},
}

@article {pmid40157660,
year = {2025},
author = {Ding, J and Gao, T and Liu, S and Li, Z and Hu, B and Zhen, J and Yao, X and Liu, H and Hu, H},
title = {Rhamnosidase from Parabacteroides distasonis exhibit the catabolism of epimedin C in the human gut microbiota.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {142481},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.142481},
pmid = {40157660},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {Epimedin C, an anti-cardiovascular disease natural compound derived from Herba Epimedii, exhibits low oral bioavailability, with its metabolism closely related to the gut microbiota. In this study, we investigated the roles of intestinal bacteria in the catabolism of epimedin C. We discovered that a strain of Parabacteroides distasonis QZH 1201 (P. distasonis) from human fecal samples can convert epimedin C to 2"-O-rhamnosylicariside II and baohuoside I. More importantly, we identified an α-L-rhamnosidase enzyme from P. distasonis (PdRha), which plays a crucial role in this process by efficiently transforming epimedin C into icariside I. PdRha showed optimal activity at pH 6 and a temperature of 50 °C. Under the condition that the final concentration of epimedin C was 0.5 mM, its conversion efficiency reached 78.72 %. Additionally, we investigated the substrate profile of PdRha and discovered that it can hydrolyze rutin, naringin, and icariin, releasing isoquercitrin, prunin, and icariside I. Molecular docking was performed to gain insights into the enzymatic mechanism. This study provides valuable insights into how a common intestinal symbiotic bacterium processes an important natural flavonoid.},
}

@article {pmid40156976,
year = {2025},
author = {Shen, Y and Xiao, Y and Xie, E and Puig-Bargués, J and Yao, Y and Kuang, N and Li, Y},
title = {Biofouling control strategy through denatured extracellular proteins: An empirical evidence from reclaimed water distribution systems.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {280},
number = {},
pages = {123538},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2025.123538},
pmid = {40156976},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Biofouling remains a significant challenge in water treatment fields, leading to a decline in the hydraulic performance, increased operational costs, and potential health risks. Previous biofouling control strategies primarily focused on the removal of particulates and microorganisms, often neglecting the role of extracellular proteins. Using a reclaimed water distribution system as an example, this study proposes a strategy to inhibit biofouling formation by utilizing urea, a reported protein denaturant with fertilizer functionality. Results indicated that urea significantly slowed the accumulation of biofouling, leading to a 16.4-49.4 % decrease in biofouling weight, an 18.6-55.3 % decrease in extracellular protein content, and a 25.9-45.3 % reduction in extracellular polymer substance (EPS) content. Urea mitigated biofouling through two mechanisms: (1) disrupting protein structures, which convert tightly bound EPS to loosely bound EPS, and (2) downregulating biofilm-forming signaling proteins, thereby inhibiting biofouling formation. In the process, proteins, polysaccharides, and microorganisms exhibited clear mutual promotion relationships. Additionally, urea weakened microbial symbiotic interactions by affecting protein signaling molecules, inhibiting microbial growth and polysaccharide metabolism. The research confirms that denaturing extracellular proteins to mitigate biofouling is a feasible and efficient approach. The findings aim to provide valuable insights for the development of sustainable and effective biofouling cleaning strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40156820,
year = {2025},
author = {Nelsen, MP and Lumbsch, HT and Boyce, CK},
title = {The Geosiphon-Nostoc symbiosis: recent elaboration, or remnant of an enduring association?.},
journal = {Annals of botany},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/aob/mcaf057},
pmid = {40156820},
issn = {1095-8290},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Fungal associations with photosynthetic microbes have regularly been invoked as precursors to the evolution of land plants and their mycorrhizal associations. The fungus Geosiphon pyriformis (Glomeromycotina) deviates from its arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM)-forming relatives through the presence of an intracellular symbiosis with Nostoc cyanobacteria, and is frequently viewed as the only extant representative of an ancient and formerly widespread association between fungi and cyanobacteria that occupied early terrestrial ecosystems. Here we add to growing evidence suggesting the Geosiphon-Nostoc-like associations are not ancestral to AM associations and did not occupy landscapes prior to the evolution of land plants. In addition, we discuss the underlying drivers contributing to the origination and persistence of this argument and discuss other ways in which Geosiphon has been misunderstood.

METHODS: We inferred timescaled phylogenies of Glomeromycotina and utilized ancestral state reconstruction to both evaluate the plausibility of a Geosiphon-like ancestral state, and highlight the additional complexity required to maintain support for a Geosiphon-like ancestral state.

KEY RESULTS: Our analyses overwhelmingly recovered the Geosiphon-like state as being derived from AM associations.

CONCLUSIONS: Our work illustrates the diverse ways in which Geosiphon has been misunderstood and adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting the Geosiphon-like ecology is derived from AM-forming ancestors and did not occupy terrestrial ecosystems prior to the evolution of land plants. We conclude by discussing outstanding questions pertaining to the ecology and evolution of Glomeromycotina fungi.},
}

@article {pmid40156447,
year = {2025},
author = {Jährig, J and Kleyböcker, A and Kraus, F and Melchiorsen, LR and Milter, H and Thisgaard, P and Vredenbregt, L and Miehe, U},
title = {Innovative pre-treatments for reverse osmosis to reclaim water from biotech and municipal wastewater for the industrial symbiosis in Kalundborg.},
journal = {Water science and technology : a journal of the International Association on Water Pollution Research},
volume = {91},
number = {6},
pages = {698-713},
pmid = {40156447},
issn = {0273-1223},
support = {grant agreement number 869318//Horizon 2020/ ; },
mesh = {*Osmosis ; *Water Purification/methods ; *Wastewater/chemistry ; Waste Disposal, Fluid/methods ; Membranes, Artificial ; Pilot Projects ; Biotechnology/methods ; Industrial Waste ; Ultrafiltration/methods ; },
abstract = {The challenge of water reclamation using membranes in this study was the quite unique wastewater composition resulting from a high share of biotech wastewater. The high content of organic matter and high concentrations of calcium, bicarbonate, and sulphate were considered as challenging for membrane processes. Consequently, an innovative ultra-tight ultrafiltration (u-t UF) membrane was developed and tested on-site at pilot scale. In comparison, a conventional UF and an open nanofiltration (NF) were piloted. The aim was to find the best pre-treatment option for reverse osmosis (RO) to reduce fouling and scaling and produce fit-for-purpose water; for example, cooling. Overall, the quality of the currently used water source was surpassed by the pilot plant. Only a standard post-treatment of the RO permeate was necessary for stabilisation. Results indicated that denser membranes only minimally reduced fouling of RO. An assessment comparing the treatment trains in a life cycle assessment using the data collected from the pilot operation (UF/NF operating settings, RO plant performance, and the design of multi-stage industrial scale RO) revealed lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to seawater desalination. However, if the RO brine treatment becomes mandatory, the greenhouse gas emissions from water reclamation and supply will be higher than those from freshwater supply.},
}

*Osmosis
*Water Purification/methods
*Wastewater/chemistry
Waste Disposal, Fluid/methods
Membranes, Artificial
Pilot Projects
Biotechnology/methods
Industrial Waste
Ultrafiltration/methods

@article {pmid40156392,
year = {2025},
author = {Arfah, RA and Ahmad, A and Khairunnur, S and Taba, P and Irfandi, R},
title = {Isolation of Protein and Peptides from Symbiont Bacteria of Green Algae, Caulerpa lentillifera and Their Potency as Anticancer.},
journal = {Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention : APJCP},
volume = {26},
number = {3},
pages = {767-774},
doi = {10.31557/APJCP.2025.26.3.767},
pmid = {40156392},
issn = {2476-762X},
mesh = {*Caulerpa/chemistry ; *Symbiosis ; Animals ; *Peptides/pharmacology ; *Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology ; Humans ; Bacteria/drug effects ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism ; Cell Proliferation/drug effects ; Edible Seaweeds ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Algae contain many symbiotic bacteria, often considered pollutants in algal cultivation. Recent studies indicate that these connections enhance the longevity of both organisms. Researching the bioactive metabolites of marine bacteria has emerged as a promising strategy for drug discovery. Green algae, including Caulerpa lentillifera, have anticancer activity and possess antioxidant qualities. The research emphasizes the isolation and identification of beneficial proteins from symbiotic bacteria, particularly Caulerpa lentillifera.

METHODS: The stages of the research included isolation and identification of the endophytic bacteria of the green alga symbiont C. lentillifera, isolation of protein from the bacterial symbiont, fractionation, hydrolysis, ultrafiltration of protein into peptides, and testing for activity. Screening activities used the BSLT to obtain the value of LC50, and the mitotic test of the sea urchin zygote cell Tripneustes gratilla Linn to find the value of IC50.

RESULTS: The results of this study indicated that the bacterial symbiont of the algae C. lentillifera was a species of Cobetia marina strain CL2-2. The peptide with molecular weight < 3 kDa from Cobetia marina strain CL2-2 was active. The peptide was from protein deposited with 40-60% saturated ammonium sulfate and hydrolyzed using pepsin enzyme. BSLT toxicity tests indicate that peptides with a molecular weight of less than 3 kDa showed significant toxicity, indicated by an LC50 value of 4.061 ppm. In a mitotic cytotoxicity test involving sea urchin zygote cells, peptides with a molecular weight of less than 3 kDa indicated significant cytotoxic activity, resulting in an IC50 value of 7.236 μg/mL.

CONCLUSION: The bioactive peptide with molecular weight of less than 3 kDa resulting from protein hydrolysis isolated from the green algae symbiont C. lentillifera has the potential as an anticancer agent.},
}

*Caulerpa/chemistry
*Symbiosis
Animals
*Peptides/pharmacology
*Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
Humans
Bacteria/drug effects
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism
Cell Proliferation/drug effects
Edible Seaweeds

@article {pmid40156309,
year = {2025},
author = {Gotze, CR and Dungan, AM and van de Meene, AML and Damjanovic, K and Philip, GK and Maire, J and Høj, L and Blackall, LL and van Oppen, MJH},
title = {Differential aggregation patterns of Endozoicomonas within tissues of the coral Acropora loripes.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wraf059},
pmid = {40156309},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {Bacteria in the genus Endozoicomonas are well-known coral symbionts commonly found as clusters within tissues of several coral species. Mapping the spatial distribution of these microbial communities is critical to gaining a holistic understanding of the potential role they may play within the coral host. This study focuses on characterizing bacterial aggregates associated with the common reef-building coral, Acropora loripes, from the central Great Barrier Reef, Australia. A conventional cultivation-based method was employed to establish a pure culture collection of 11 undescribed Endozoicomonas strains isolated from A. loripes. Subsequent 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing revealed their classification into two distinct phylogenetic clades. To resolve their spatial distribution in hospite, clade-specific fluorescence in situ hybridization probes were designed. Aggregates were consistently observed in the gastrodermal tissue layers surrounding the upper and lower gastrovascular cavity and were predominantly formed by cells from the same phylogenetic clade, with a minor proportion of aggregates formed by Endozoicomonas from both targeted clades. Furthermore, a clear distinction in aggregation pattern was observed; one clade exhibited clusters with regular and contained growth patterns, whereas the other formed clusters lacking clear boundaries and having irregular shapes. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the presence of a membrane of unknown origin associated with bacterial aggregates in two instances, suggesting potential structural or functional differences in these aggregates. These morphological differences highlight the importance of further investigations into the mechanisms governing bacterial aggregate formation in corals.},
}

@article {pmid40152827,
year = {2025},
author = {Ang, WSL and Blaszynski, MM and Cai, JB and Markowitz, L and Maunders, EA and Norlin, A and Womack, HR and Li, F-W},
title = {Genome sequences of two cyanobacteria strains isolated from hornworts.},
journal = {Microbiology resource announcements},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0111824},
doi = {10.1128/mra.01118-24},
pmid = {40152827},
issn = {2576-098X},
abstract = {We report two complete genome assemblies of symbiotic cyanobacteria isolated from the hornwort species Notothylas orbicularis and Phaeoceros carolinianus. These new datasets will facilitate future comparative genomic studies across symbiotic cyanobacteria.},
}

@article {pmid40152595,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, Y and Li, X and Kormas, KA and Li, Y and Li, H and Li, J},
title = {Variable phylosymbiosis and cophylogeny patterns in wild fish gut microbiota of a large subtropical river.},
journal = {mSphere},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0098224},
doi = {10.1128/msphere.00982-24},
pmid = {40152595},
issn = {2379-5042},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: The persistence and specificity of fish host-microbial interaction during evolution is an important part of exploring the host-microbial symbiosis mechanism. However, it remains unclear how the environmental and host factors shape fish host-microbe symbiotic relationships in subtropical rivers with complex natural environments. Freshwater fish are important consumers in rivers and lakes and are considered keystone species in maintaining the stability of food webs there. In this study, patterns and mechanisms shaping gut microbiota community in 42 fish species from the Pearl River, in the subtropical zone of China, were investigated. The results showed that fish host specificity is a key driver of gut microbiota evolution and diversification. Different taxonomic levels of the host showed different degrees of contribution to gut microbiota variation. Geographical location and habitat type were the next most important factors in shaping gut microbiota across the 42 fishes, followed by diet and gut trait. Our results emphasized the contribution of stochastic processes (drift and homogenizing dispersal) in the gut microbial community assembly of freshwater fishes in the middle and lower reaches of the Pearl River. Phylosymbiosis is evident at both global and local levels, which are jointly shaped by complex factors including ecological or host physiological filtration and evolutionary processes. The core microbiota showed co-evolutionary relationships of varying degrees with different taxonomic groups. We speculate that host genetic isolation or habitat variation facilitates the heterogeneous selection (deterministic process), which occurs and results in different host-core bacterium specificity.

IMPORTANCE: Freshwater fish are regarded as the dominant consumers in rivers and lakes. Due to their diverse feeding modes, fish significantly enhance the trophic link and nutrient recycling/retention in aquatic habitats. For this, they are often considered keystone species in maintaining the stability of food webs in rivers and lakes. A significant part of fish nutrition is essentially mediated by their gut microbiota, which can enhance fish tolerance to fluctuations in external resources and improve the efficiency of nutrients extracted from various food sources. As gut bacterial symbionts have a profound impact on the nutrition and development of their hosts, as well as their overall fitness, it is critical to answer the question of how hosts maintain these benefits by procuring or inheriting these vital symbionts, which is still largely unanswered, especially for freshwater fish. Our study provides new insights into the co-evolutionary relationship between wild fish and their symbiotic microbiome, the hidden diversity of gut microbiome, and the ecological adaptation potential of wild freshwater fish.},
}

@article {pmid40152378,
year = {2025},
author = {Papa, V and Li Pomi, F and Di Gioacchino, M and Mangifesta, R and Borgia, F and Gangemi, S},
title = {Mast Cells and Microbiome in Health and Disease.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioscience (Landmark edition)},
volume = {30},
number = {3},
pages = {26283},
doi = {10.31083/FBL26283},
pmid = {40152378},
issn = {2768-6698},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mast Cells/immunology/microbiology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology/physiology ; Animals ; Dysbiosis/immunology/microbiology ; Immunity, Innate ; Microbiota/immunology ; Inflammation/immunology/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Inter-kingdom communication between human microbiota and mast cells (MCs), as sentinels of innate immunity, is crucial in determining health and disease. This complex signaling hub involves micro-organisms and, more importantly, their metabolic products. Gut microbiota is the host's largest symbiotic ecosystem and, under physiological conditions, it plays a vital role in mediating MCs tolerogenic priming, thus ensuring immune homeostasis across organs. Conversely, intestinal dysbiosis of various etiologies promotes MC-oriented inflammation along major body axes, including gut-skin, gut-lung, gut-liver, and gut-brain. This review of international scientific literature provides a comprehensive overview of the cross-talk under investigation. This process is a key biological event involved in disease development across clinical fields, with significant prognostic and therapeutic implications for future research.},
}

Humans
*Mast Cells/immunology/microbiology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology/physiology
Animals
Dysbiosis/immunology/microbiology
Immunity, Innate
Microbiota/immunology
Inflammation/immunology/microbiology

@article {pmid40152178,
year = {2025},
author = {Salzman, S and Bustos-Díaz, ED and Whitaker, MRL and Sierra, AM and Cibrián-Jaramillo, A and Barona-Gómez, F and Villarreal Aguilar, JC},
title = {Chemical ecology of symbioses in cycads, an ancient plant lineage.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70109},
pmid = {40152178},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {950-232698//Canada Research Chairs/ ; 39135//Canadian Foundation for Innovation/ ; 12-2018-4-FID16-237//Secretaria Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología/ ; },
abstract = {Cycads are an ancient lineage of gymnosperms that maintain a plethora of symbiotic associations from across the tree of life. They have myriad morphological, structural, physiological, chemical, and behavioral adaptations that position them as a unique system to study the evolution, ecology, and mechanism of symbiosis. To this end, we have provided an overview of cycad symbiosis biology covering insects, bacteria, and fungi, and discuss the most recent advances in the underlying chemical ecology of these associations.},
}

@article {pmid40151487,
year = {2025},
author = {Shishkina, OD and Gruntenko, NE},
title = {Symbiosis of intracellular bacteria Wolbachia with insects: a hundred years of study summarized.},
journal = {Vavilovskii zhurnal genetiki i selektsii},
volume = {29},
number = {1},
pages = {79-91},
doi = {10.18699/vjgb-25-10},
pmid = {40151487},
issn = {2500-0462},
abstract = {Wolbachia pipientis is an α-proteobacterium, which is a widespread intracellular symbiont in a number of Arthropoda and some Nematoda species. With insects, W. pipientis forms a symbiont-host system characterized by very close interactions between its components. The mutual effects of Wolbachia on the host and the host on Wolbachia are important biotic factors for both components of this symbiotic system. Wolbachia is able to affect both host reproduction and somatic organ function. Due to its prevalence among insects and a wide variety of both negative (cytoplasmic incompatibility and androcide are among the most well-known examples) and positive (increasing resistance to biotic and abiotic factors, providing vitamins and metabolites) effects on the host organism, Wolbachia is of great interest for both entomologists and microbiologists. The diversity of host phenotypes induced by Wolbachia provides a broad choice of evolutionary strategies (such as reproductive parasitism or mutually beneficial symbiont-host relationships) that it utilizes. The influence of Wolbachia is to be considered in the design of any experiment conducted on insects. The application of sequencing technologies has led to new approaches being created to study the existing relationships within the Wolbachia-insect system, but interpretation of the data obtained is challenging. Nevertheless, the prospects for the use of the whole-genome analysis data to study Wolbachia-host coevolution are beyond doubt. Ongoing projects to introduce Wolbachia strains, which provide antiviral host defense, into insect populations to control the spread of RNA-viruses are actively pursued, which could result in saving many human lives. The aim of this brief review is to summarize the data collected by scientists over the past hundred years of Wolbachia studies and the current understanding of its genetic diversity and mechanisms of interaction with the host, including those based on transcriptome analysis.},
}

@article {pmid40151097,
year = {2025},
author = {Danish, M and Shahid, M and Ibrahim, SM and Ahamad, L},
title = {Enhancing Pea Plant Growth, Nutrient Acquisition, and Symbiosis in Cobalt-Stressed Soil Using Metal-Tolerant Klebsiella sp.},
journal = {Journal of basic microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70025},
doi = {10.1002/jobm.70025},
pmid = {40151097},
issn = {1521-4028},
support = {//This work was funded by King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Grant/Award Number RSP2025R100./ ; },
abstract = {Excessive cobalt (Co) levels in agricultural soil cause significant toxicity, reducing crop growth and yield. This study aimed to assess the potential of Klebsiella sp. SRB-5 (Accession no. OR715782), in mitigating cobalt toxicity and enhancing the growth of garden peas under cobalt stress. Strain SRB-5, tolerant to 4000 ppm of Co(II), was evaluated for producing growth-regulating substances, including indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), ammonia, siderophore, ACC deaminase, and solubilized phosphate, under cobalt stress. The optimal conditions for Co-(II) biosorption by SRB-5 were determined to be 25°C, pH 6.0, and an incubation time of 72 h. The strain's ability to mitigate Co-(II) toxicity was tested by inoculating peas grown in soil treated with 1000, 2000, and 3000 ppm Co-(II). Inoculation with Co-tolerant SRB-5 alleviated cobalt toxicity and significantly enhanced the physiological and biochemical properties of plants. Notably, SRB-5 increased root length (19.2%), root biomass (29%), seedling vigor index (18.4%), total chlorophyll (52%), nodule biomass (41%), leghaemoglobin content (38%), root nitrogen (27%), and phosphorous content (19.3%) in 1000 ppm Co-stressed peas. Additionally, bacterial inoculation reduced proline, malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and membrane injury by 85%, 57.3%, 90%, and 75%, respectively, in 1000 ppm Co-exposed plants. Priming with SRB-5 also reduced cobalt uptake in roots (88%), shoots (53.7%), and grains (79.6%) compared to uninoculated treatments. Metal-tolerant beneficial soil bacteria, such as Klebsiella sp. strain SRB-5, could serve as an effective alternative for enhancing pea production in metal-contaminated soils. The use of Co-tolerant PGPR strains holds potential for development as biofertilizers in future agricultural practices.},
}

@article {pmid40149487,
year = {2025},
author = {Wei, Y and Li, J and Jin, J and Gao, J and Xie, Q and Lu, C and Zhu, G and Yang, F},
title = {Centenary Progress on Orchidaceae Research: A Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Genes},
volume = {16},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40149487},
issn = {2073-4425},
support = {2023YFD2300904//National Key RD Program/ ; },
mesh = {*Orchidaceae/growth & development ; *Bibliometrics ; Pollination ; Research ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Research on orchids has experienced substantial growth since the early 20th century, reflecting their ecological and evolutionary significance.

METHODS: This paper provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of orchid-related literature published between 1902 and 2024, based on data retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection™ (WoS).

RESULTS: The primary goal is to assess the global research landscape of orchids by identifying key authors, institutions, and journals, as well as major research themes in the field. A thorough analysis of publication trends, citation frequencies, and keyword co-occurrence networks was conducted to uncover significant research hotspots. The findings indicate that orchid research has evolved from foundational topics such as taxonomy and classification to more intricate subjects, including conservation strategies, orchid-pollinator dynamics, and the role of orchids in ecosystem functions. Additionally, biotechnology-related research is emerging as a dominant trend. This study also highlights that China has the highest publication output, while collaboration between the United States and Europe continues to grow. The co-word analysis of keywords suggests that future research is likely to continue to focus on orchid conservation, the impacts of climate change, pollination biology, and symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi.

CONCLUSIONS: This review offers valuable insights for researchers and conservationists, helping to identify future research priorities and strategies for the preservation and sustainable use of orchids.},
}

*Orchidaceae/growth & development
*Bibliometrics
Pollination
Research
Ecosystem

@article {pmid40149448,
year = {2025},
author = {Revalska, M and Radkova, M and Zhiponova, M and Vassileva, V and Iantcheva, A},
title = {Functional Genomics of Legumes in Bulgaria-Advances and Future Perspectives.},
journal = {Genes},
volume = {16},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40149448},
issn = {2073-4425},
mesh = {Bulgaria ; *Genomics/methods ; *Fabaceae/genetics ; Crops, Agricultural/genetics ; Genome, Plant ; Medicago truncatula/genetics ; Lotus/genetics ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; },
abstract = {Members of the Leguminosae family are important crops that provide food, animal feed and vegetable oils. Legumes make a substantial contribution to sustainable agriculture and the nitrogen cycle through their unique ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen in agricultural ecosystems. Over the past three decades, Medicago truncatula and Lotus japonicus have emerged as model plants for genomic and physiological research in legumes. The advancement of innovative molecular and genetic tools, particularly insertional mutagenesis using the retrotransposon Tnt1, has facilitated the development of extensive mutant collections and enabled precise gene tagging in plants for the identification of key symbiotic and developmental genes. Building on these resources, twelve years ago, our research team initiated the establishment of a platform for functional genomic studies of legumes in Bulgaria. In the framework of this initiative, we conducted systematic sequencing of selected mutant lines and identified genes involved in plant growth and development for detailed functional characterization. This review summarizes our findings on the functions of selected genes involved in the growth and development of the model species, discusses the molecular mechanisms underlying important developmental processes and examines the potential for the translation of this fundamental knowledge to improve commercially important legume crops in Bulgaria and globally.},
}

Bulgaria
*Genomics/methods
*Fabaceae/genetics
Crops, Agricultural/genetics
Genome, Plant
Medicago truncatula/genetics
Lotus/genetics
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant

@article {pmid40149437,
year = {2025},
author = {Alharbi, SM and Al-Sulami, N and Al-Amrah, H and Anwar, Y and Gadah, OA and Bahamdain, LA and Al-Matary, M and Alamri, AM and Bahieldin, A},
title = {Metagenomic Characterization of the Maerua crassifolia Soil Rhizosphere: Uncovering Microbial Networks for Nutrient Acquisition and Plant Resilience in Arid Ecosystems.},
journal = {Genes},
volume = {16},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40149437},
issn = {2073-4425},
mesh = {*Rhizosphere ; *Soil Microbiology ; Mycorrhizae/genetics/classification ; Bacteria/genetics/classification/metabolism/isolation & purification ; Metagenomics/methods ; Metagenome ; Ecosystem ; Microbiota/genetics ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; Fungi/genetics/classification ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives:Maerua crassifolia, a threatened medicinal species endemic to drylands, exhibits a pronounced drought sensitivity. Despite the critical role of microorganisms, particularly bacteria and fungi, the microbial consortia in M. crassifolia's rhizosphere remain underexplored. Methods: Metagenomic whole genome shotgun sequencing (WGS) was employed to elucidate the taxonomic composition of bacterial and fungal communities inhabiting the soil rhizosphere of M. crassifolia. Results: The data revealed a marked predominance of bacterial genomes relative to fungal communities, as evidenced by non-redundant gene analysis. Notably, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), specifically Rhizophagus clarus, Rhizophagus irregularis and Funneliformis geosporum, are key rhizosphere colonizers. This study confirmed the presence of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB), such as Sphingomonas spp., Cyanobacteria and Pseudomonadota, underscoring the critical role of these microorganisms in the phosphorus cycle. Additionally, the study uncovered the presence of previously uncharacterized species within the phylum Actinobacteria, as well as unidentified taxa from the Betaproteobacteria, Gemmatimonadota and Chloroflexota phyla, which may represent novel microbial taxa with potential plant growth-promoting properties. Conclusions: Findings suggest a complex, symbiotic network where AMF facilitate phosphorus uptake through plant-root interactions. In a tripartite symbiosis, PSB enhance inorganic phosphorus solubilization, increasing bioavailability, which AMF assimilate and deliver to plant roots, optimizing nutrition. This bacterial-fungal interplay is essential for plant resilience in arid environments. Future investigations should prioritize the isolation and characterization of underexplored microbial taxa residing in the rhizosphere of M. crassifolia, with particular emphasis on members of the Actinobacteria, Betaproteobacteria, Gemmatimonadota and Chloroflexota phyla to uncover their roles in nutrient acquisition and sustainability.},
}

*Rhizosphere
*Soil Microbiology
Mycorrhizae/genetics/classification
Bacteria/genetics/classification/metabolism/isolation & purification
Metagenomics/methods
Metagenome
Ecosystem
Microbiota/genetics
Plant Roots/microbiology
Fungi/genetics/classification

@article {pmid40149007,
year = {2025},
author = {Hu, B and Messerer, M and Haberer, G and Lux, T and Marosi, V and Mayer, KFX and Oliphant, KD and Kaufholdt, D and Schulze, J and Kreth, LS and Jurgeleit, J and Geffers, R and Hänsch, R and Rennenberg, H},
title = {Genomic and transcriptomic insights into legume-rhizobia symbiosis in the nitrogen-fixing tree Robinia pseudoacacia.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70101},
pmid = {40149007},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {cstc2021ycjh-bgzxm0020//Chongqing Municipal Science and Technology Bureau/ ; cstc2021ycjh-bgzxm0002//Chongqing Municipal Science and Technology Bureau/ ; TRR 356//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; },
abstract = {Robinia pseudoacacia L. (black locust) is a nitrogen (N)-fixing legume tree with significant ecological and agricultural importance. Unlike well-studied herbaceous legumes, R. pseudoacacia is a perennial woody species, representing an understudied group of legume trees that establish symbiosis with Mesorhizobium. Understanding its genomic and transcriptional responses to nodulation provides key insights into N fixation in long-lived plants and their role in ecosystem N cycling. We assembled a high-quality 699.6-Mb reference genome and performed transcriptomic analyses comparing inoculated and noninoculated plants. Differential expression and co-expression network analyses revealed organ-specific regulatory pathways, identifying key genes associated with symbiosis, nutrient transport, and stress adaptation. Unlike Medicago truncatula, which predominantly responds to nodulation in roots, R. pseudoacacia exhibited stem-centered transcriptional reprogramming, with the majority of differentially expressed genes located in stems rather than in roots. Co-expression network analysis identified gene modules associated with "leghemoglobins", metal detoxification, and systemic nutrient allocation, highlighting a coordinated long-distance response to N fixation. This study establishes R. pseudoacacia as a genomic model for nodulating trees, providing essential resources for evolutionary, ecological, and applied research. These findings have significant implications for reforestation, phytoremediation, forestry, and sustainable N management, particularly in depleted, degraded, and contaminated soil ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid40148601,
year = {2025},
author = {Kaltenpoth, M and Flórez, LV and Vigneron, A and Dirksen, P and Engl, T},
title = {Origin and function of beneficial bacterial symbioses in insects.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40148601},
issn = {1740-1534},
abstract = {Beneficial bacterial symbionts are widespread in insects and affect the fitness of their hosts by contributing to nutrition, digestion, detoxification, communication or protection from abiotic stressors or natural enemies. Decades of research have formed our understanding of the identity, localization and functional benefits of insect symbionts, and the increasing availability of genome sequences spanning a diversity of pathogens and beneficial bacteria now enables comparative approaches of their metabolic features and their phylogenetic affiliations, shedding new light on the origin and function of beneficial symbioses in insects. In this Review, we explore the symbionts' metabolic traits that can provide benefits to insect hosts and discuss the evolutionary paths to the formation of host-beneficial symbiotic associations. Phylogenetic analyses and molecular studies reveal that extracellular symbioses colonizing cuticular organs or the digestive tract evolved from a broad diversity of bacterial partners, whereas intracellular beneficial symbionts appear to be restricted to a limited number of lineages within the Gram-negative bacteria and probably originated from parasitic ancestors. To unravel the general principles underlying host-symbiont interactions and recapitulate the early evolutionary steps leading towards beneficial symbioses, future efforts should aim to establish more symbiotic systems that are amenable to genetic manipulation and experimental evolution.},
}

@article {pmid40147567,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, T and Bi, F and Liu, H and Wang, S and He, P and Zhang, J},
title = {Identification of nitrogen-fixing bacteria on green tide - Causing species and evaluation of their nitrogen-fixing capacity.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {132450},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.132450},
pmid = {40147567},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Different algae host distinct phycosphere microenvironments, where mutualistic relationships between algae and symbiotic and epiphytic bacteria are common. Ulva prolifera (U. prolifera) harbors a diverse microbial community that plays a crucial role in its morphogenesis and growth. In this study, 28 bacterial strains were isolated from U. prolifera using 2216E medium. Molecular identification via the nifH gene (nitrogenase coding gene) revealed that three of these strains harbored the nifH gene, all belonging to the genus Cobetia. When co-cultured with sterile U. prolifera for 31 days, the results indicated that these nitrogen-fixing bacteria significantly enhanced the growth of U. prolifera. Nitrogenase activity was quantified, which demonstrated that these bacteria supplied nitrogen to U. prolifera through biological nitrogen fixation, thus promoting its growth. This study demonstrates that there are indeed microorganisms with nitrogen-fixing ability on the U. prolifera, which provide nitrogen for U. prolifera and significantly promote its growth.},
}

@article {pmid40147322,
year = {2025},
author = {Shi, R and Lian, Y and Zeb, A and Liu, J and Yu, M and Wang, Q and Wang, J and Fu, X and Liu, W},
title = {Foliar exposure to microplastics disrupts lettuce metabolism and negatively interferes with symbiotic microbial communities.},
journal = {Plant physiology and biochemistry : PPB},
volume = {223},
number = {},
pages = {109823},
doi = {10.1016/j.plaphy.2025.109823},
pmid = {40147322},
issn = {1873-2690},
abstract = {Plant leaves are considered an important sink for atmospheric microplastics (MPs) because they serve as a vital interface between the atmosphere and terrestrial ecosystems. However, there is still a dearth of information regarding how plant-symbiotic microbe-soil systems are affected by foliar exposure to MPs. In this study, MPs (polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP)) were sprayed over soil-cultivated lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) four occasions, with final sprays containing 0.4 and 4 μg of MPs per plant. MPs had no discernible impact on lettuce growth as compared to the control group. However, MPs led to reductions in relative chlorophyll content from 16.91 to 30.64 % and net photosynthetic rate from 6.64 to 81.41 %. These results validate the phytotoxicity linked to MP exposure through foliar application. The presence of MPs triggered interspecific competition among phyllosphere microbial species and reduced microbial network complexity by forming ecological niches and regulating carbon- and nitrogen-related metabolic pathways. Furthermore, MPs inhibited the growth of beneficial bacteria in the rhizosphere soil, including a variety of plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPR) such as Rhizobiales, Pseudomonadales, and Bacillales. This study identifies the ecological health risks associated with atmospheric MPs, which may have a detrimental impact on crop production and further compromise soil ecosystem security.},
}

@article {pmid40147307,
year = {2025},
author = {Ahmad, M and Yousaf, M},
title = {Co-conversion of CO2 and refractory organics into bioplastics through a stable biocarrier.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {280},
number = {},
pages = {123519},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2025.123519},
pmid = {40147307},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {An attractive solution to traditional plastics is scaling up the microbial system to produce bioplastics like polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). Herein, we developed a dynamic microbial ecosystem on porous biocarrier for conversion of refractory organics to bioplastics. biocarriers of 25 mm sized were packed in a 5 L bioreactor and operated for 200 days, to achieve stable performance for commercial applications. Reaching to bioreactor stability, microbial ecosystem utilized quinoline (5.2 kg/m[3]/day) for carbon & nitrogen metabolism, phenol (4.5 kg/m[3]/day) to trigger synthesis of PHAs, pyridines (4.2 kg/m[3]/day) to manufacture hydroxy fatty acid polyesters, NH4[+](7.2 kg/m[3]/day) to regulate symbiosis, NO3/NO2 (1.2 kg/m[3]/day) to serve as mediators and electron acceptors. On 200th day, bioplastic production reached to 76.8 (kg/m[3]/day) with stable pollutants degradation of 70.3 (kg/m[3]/day). Purity of the bioplastics remained quite high (average 90 %) after 100 days of bioreactor operation. Interestingly, PHAs synthesis was triggered (31-581 g/day) with increased CO2 fixation from 45 to 594 (mol/h/g protein), due to the growth of CO2 assimilators. The developed biocarriers could be directly poured into the secondary tank of the existing wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), which will not only produce bioplastics but also boost treatment efficiency and resource recovery potential of WWTPs.},
}

@article {pmid40146583,
year = {2025},
author = {Nevicka, B and van den Hee, SM and van Loenen, M and Brummelman, E},
title = {The symbiosis of narcissistic leaders and low-self-esteem followers: Dominance complementarity in childhood.},
journal = {The American psychologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1037/amp0001518},
pmid = {40146583},
issn = {1935-990X},
support = {//Jacobs Foundation/ ; //Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research/ ; },
abstract = {Narcissistic leaders are on the rise globally. Although research has documented the harmful consequences of narcissistic leadership, little is known about the interplay between narcissistic leaders and their followers. Building on the dominance-complementarity theory, we theorized that the dominance and confidence of narcissistic leaders would match well with the submissiveness and insecurity of followers with low self-esteem. We conducted an observational-experimental study (N = 332; 46% boys; 96% born in the Netherlands) in childhood (ages 7-14), a period that is considered critical for the formation of leader-follower relationships. Children completed a collaborative decision-making task in three-person groups. Within each group, one child was randomly assigned as leader; others were followers. We combined self-reports, informant reports, and observer-coded behaviors to provide a rigorous test of our hypotheses. Consistent with dominance-complementarity theory, in groups with a more narcissistic leader, followers with lower self-esteem perceived their leader as more effective, endorsed the leader more strongly for future leadership roles, experienced more inclusion and less bullying from the leader, felt better about themselves, perceived greater group cohesion, and showed less antagonistic behavior. This complementarity effect generalized to observer-coded leader behavior: In groups with lower self-esteem followers, more narcissistic leaders showed less aggression and less social exclusion toward their followers. Overall, findings were more pronounced in younger children and did not depend on the sex composition of groups. Our research reveals childhood manifestations of leader-follower dynamics, underlines the importance of leader-follower complementarity, and uncovers conditions under which narcissistic leadership can benefit versus harm the group. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).},
}

@article {pmid40145252,
year = {2025},
author = {Rivera, C and Wakley, T and Röder, G and Bustos-Segura, C and Li, Y and Benrey, B},
title = {Rhizobia-Bean Symbiosis Increases Root Herbivore Attraction and Growth via Volatile Signals and Enhanced Nutrition.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.15485},
pmid = {40145252},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {//This study was financed by a grant from the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) (Project No: 310030-197463) awarded to Betty Benrey./ ; },
abstract = {The symbiosis between nitrogen-fixing rhizobia and plants is considered mutually beneficial, yet its indirect effects on other organisms remain understudied. We examined how rhizobia symbiosis in Phaseolus vulgaris influences the behaviour and performance of Diabrotica balteata larvae. Specifically, we tested larval preference for nodulated (R[+]) vs. non-nodulated (R[-]) roots and assessed the impact on larval growth. We also analysed root nutrient content and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to identify potential chemical cues driving feeding preferences. Larvae strongly preferred R[+] roots, where they exhibited enhanced growth and higher survival post-metamorphosis. Nutritional analysis revealed that R[+] roots had greater nutrient content, supporting improved larval performance. VOC profiles differed significantly between treatments, and olfactometer assays confirmed that larval attraction was mediated by VOCs, likely signalling enhanced nutritional benefits from rhizobia symbiosis. Our results demonstrate that rhizobia-induced metabolic changes in bean roots make them more attractive and nutritious to herbivorous larvae. This highlights a complex belowground interaction between nitrogen-fixing bacteria, host plants and herbivores, with potential implications for ecological theory and sustainable agriculture. Understanding these interactions could inform pest management strategies and improve legume cultivation by balancing plant-microbe mutualisms with herbivore dynamics.},
}

@article {pmid40144381,
year = {2025},
author = {Kryukov, AA and Yurkov, AP and Gorbunova, AO and Kudriashova, TR and Gorenkova, AI and Kosulnikov, YV and Laktionov, YV},
title = {Evaluation of the biodiversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi during regenerative succession in quarries.},
journal = {Vavilovskii zhurnal genetiki i selektsii},
volume = {29},
number = {1},
pages = {72-78},
doi = {10.18699/vjgb-25-09},
pmid = {40144381},
issn = {2500-0462},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a key role in the regenerative successions of plant communities after anthropogenic disturbances, particularly in quarries. AMF help plants with water and mineral nutrition, contributing to the restoration rate of vegetation cover. The research is aimed to study the biodiversity of AMF using molecular genetic methods at different stages of overgrowth of two quarries in the Leningrad region. Molecular genetic identification of fungi was carried out using Illumina MiSeq analysis of the ITS1 and ITS2 regions as barcodes for the identification of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) with species-level identification. An adapted and error-checked AMF genetic sequence database from NCBI was used as a reference. The study applied an optimized nucleic acid isolation technique for sandy soils. The results showed maximum AMF biodiversity at the initial stages of overgrowth - pioneer and grass stages - with minimum diversity observed at the shrub stage, where it decreased by five times. At the forest stage, the biodiversity of AMF was almost restored to the level seen at the grass stage. It has been shown that the biodiversity and species composition of AMF can vary greatly between the stages of regenerative succession and probably depends primarily on the biodiversity of grasses, with which AMF most effectively enter into symbiotic relationships. The analysis showed a reliable negative correlation between the number of AMF species and the number of woody plant species. Such studies can aid in understanding how plant-fungal symbiosis develops in regenerative successions and which AMF most effectively contribute to vegetation cover restoration.},
}

@article {pmid40144085,
year = {2025},
author = {Luong, J and Tzang, CC and McWatt, S and Brassett, C and Stearns, D and Sagoo, MG and Kunzel, C and Sakurai, T and Chien, CL and Noel, G and Wu, A},
title = {Exploring Artificial Intelligence Readiness in Medical Students: Analysis of a Global Survey.},
journal = {Medical science educator},
volume = {35},
number = {1},
pages = {331-341},
pmid = {40144085},
issn = {2156-8650},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in diverse fields, including medical education, has emerged as a pivotal topic as the integration of AI technologies is becoming increasingly prevalent. This research delved into the landscape of AI integration in academic settings aimed to evaluate the students' readiness for the evolving AI landscape in medical education.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants were recruited from the International Collaboration and Exchange Program (ICEP) in the fall of 2023. An online survey was conducted to collect data on demographics, the landscape of AI utilization in academic settings, and the perceived readiness levels related to AI from 223 participants. The Medical Artificial Intelligence Readiness Scale for Medical Students (MAIRS-MS) was used.

RESULTS: Results indicated that 41.82% of participants "agreed" or "strongly agreed" that AI education should be part of medical training. Overall levels of AI readiness exhibited a statistically significant positive correlation with the frequency of AI inclusion in the curriculum (r = 0.217, p = 0.009), the frequency of AI use for studying (r = 0.246, p = 0.003), and the agreement that AI education should be integrated into medical training (r = 0.594, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: This study offers valuable insights into the ongoing discussion on the role of AI in education, providing a foundation for educators to consider the integration of AI into their educational framework. The implementation of AI education could potentially enhance students' AI readiness, considering the multiple benefits this symbiosis can offer.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40670-024-02190-x.},
}

@article {pmid40143861,
year = {2025},
author = {Deng, AQ and Yue, SY and Niu, D and Zhang, DD and Hou, BB and Zhang, L and Liang, CZ and Du, HX},
title = {The role of microbiota in the chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvis pain syndrome: a review.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1488732},
pmid = {40143861},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Chronic prostatitis/Chronic pelvis pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), a kind of frequent urinary condition among adult males, has caused a lot of inconvenience to patients in life, whose pathogenesis is unclear. Current evidence suggests that it is most likely to be an autoimmune disease. Symbiotic microbes, a highly diverse biological community that harbors trillions of microbes in each region of the human body, have gradually made people realize their important role in immune regulation, material metabolism, and health maintenance. In recent years, increasing studies have shown a connection between microbiota and CP/CPPS. In view of this, we performed this review to summarize the literature pertaining to microbiota and its association with the pathophysiological mechanism of CP/CPPS. In addition, we gleaned the latest progress in the therapeutic strategy of CP/CPPS that related to microbiota regulation in order to offer new perspectives on the management of CP/CPPS.},
}

@article {pmid40143860,
year = {2025},
author = {Dey, R and Valle, DO and Chakraborty, A and Mayer, KA and Uppala, JK and Chakraborty, A and Mirza, S and Skwor, T and Forst, S and Dey, M},
title = {Quorum sensing regulators and non-ribosomal peptide synthetases govern antibacterial secretions in Xenorhabdus szentirmaii.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1560663},
pmid = {40143860},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The decades-long gap in antibiotic discovery has led to a significant health crisis due to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The bacterial genus Xenorhabdus, which forms symbiotic relationships with the soil nematode Steinernema, are known to secrete a variety of antimicrobial compounds with potential effectiveness against AMR. These antimicrobial compounds are primarily bio-synthesized by non-ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPS) and polyketide synthase (PKS) genes. In this study, we report that X. szentirmaii produces high levels of antibiotic activity during the stationary phase against diverse bacteria including known antibiotic resistant pathogens. It possesses 17 operons to encode predicted NRPS and PKS enzymes, designated as ste1 through ste17. The ste15-ste16 and ste17 operons are predicted to produce the known antibiotics Pax peptide and Fabclavine, respectively. Additionally, the newly identified operons ste3, ste4, ste5, ste8, ste9, and ste14 consist of single genes, each containing two or more NRPS genes. The ste13 operon harbors two NRPS genes, while the ste7 and ste12 operons contain three NRPS genes each. Further, RNA-seq analysis showed that lsrF that encodes a quorum sensing autoinducer-2 (AI-2) thiolase was expressed at high levels during stationary phase. These findings provide evidence that X. szentirmaii uses quorum sensing (QS) to synchronize the expression of multiple NRPS and PKS enzymes responsible for synthesizing various antimicrobial compounds. This study underscores the potential to leverage these regulatory insights for maximizing commercial applications of novel antibiotics combating AMR, as well as broader industrial uses.},
}

@article {pmid40142474,
year = {2025},
author = {Jaiswal, SK and Dakora, FD},
title = {Maximizing Photosynthesis and Plant Growth in African Legumes Through Rhizobial Partnerships: The Road Behind and Ahead.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40142474},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {The interplay between soil rhizobial bacteria and leguminous plants, particularly in Africa, has a profound impact on photosynthetic efficiency and overall crop productivity. This review explores the critical role of rhizobia in enhancing photosynthesis through nitrogen fixation, a process crucial for sustainable agriculture. Rhizobial bacteria residing in root nodules provide legumes with symbiotic nitrogen that significantly boosts plant growth and photosynthetic capacity. Recent advances in molecular genomics have elucidated the genetic frameworks underlying this symbiosis, identifying key genes involved in root nodule formation and nitrogen fixation. Comparative genomics of Bradyrhizobium species have revealed seven distinct lineages, with diverse traits linked to nodulation, nitrogen fixation, and photosynthesis. Field studies across Africa demonstrate that rhizobial inoculation can markedly increase nodulation, nitrogen fixation, and grain yields, though outcomes vary depending on local soil conditions and legume species. Notable findings include enhanced nutrient uptake and photosynthetic rates in inoculated legumes compared with nitrate-fed plants. This review highlights the potential of utilizing indigenous rhizobia to improve photosynthesis and crop resilience. Future prospects involve leveraging genomic insights to optimize rhizobial inoculants and enhance legume productivity in water-limited environments. As climate change intensifies, integrating these advancements into agricultural practices could play a crucial role in improving food security and sustainable soil health in Africa.},
}

@article {pmid40142448,
year = {2025},
author = {Williams, MD and Smith, L},
title = {Streptococcus salivarius and Ligilactobacillus salivarius: Paragons of Probiotic Potential and Reservoirs of Novel Antimicrobials.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40142448},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {1R41AI122441-01A1//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease/ ; },
abstract = {This review highlights several basic problems associated with bacterial drug resistance, including the decreasing efficacy of commercially available antimicrobials as well as the related problem of microbiome irregularity and dysbiosis. The article explains that this present situation is addressable through LAB species, such as Streptococcus salivarius and Ligilactobacillus salivarius, which are well established synthesizers of both broad- and narrow-spectrum antimicrobials. The sheer number of antimicrobials produced by LAB species and the breadth of their biological effects, both in terms of their bacteriostatic/bactericidal abilities and their immunomodulation, make them prime candidates for new probiotics and antibiotics. Given the ease with which several of the molecules can be biochemically engineered and the fact that many of these compounds target evolutionarily constrained target sites, it seems apparent that these compounds and their producing organisms ought to be looked at as the next generation of robust dual action symbiotic drugs.},
}

@article {pmid40142410,
year = {2025},
author = {Hassen, AI and Muema, EK and Diale, MO and Mpai, T and Bopape, FL},
title = {Non-Rhizobial Endophytes (NREs) of the Nodule Microbiome Have Synergistic Roles in Beneficial Tripartite Plant-Microbe Interactions.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40142410},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {A-089//Department of Agriculture Land Reform and Rural Development/ ; },
abstract = {Microbial symbioses deal with the symbiotic interactions between a given microorganism and another host. The most widely known and investigated microbial symbiosis is the association between leguminous plants and nitrogen-fixing rhizobia. It is one of the best-studied plant-microbe interactions that occur in the soil rhizosphere and one of the oldest plant-microbe interactions extensively studied for the past several decades globally. Until recently, it used to be a common understanding among scientists in the field of rhizobia and microbial ecology that the root nodules of thousands of leguminous species only contain nitrogen-fixing symbiotic rhizobia. With the advancement of molecular microbiology and the coming into being of state-of-the-art biotechnology innovations, including next-generation sequencing, it has now been revealed that rhizobia living in the root nodules of legumes are not alone. Microbiome studies such as metagenomics of the root nodule microbial community showed that, in addition to symbiotic rhizobia, other bacteria referred to as non-rhizobial endophytes (NREs) exist in the nodules. This review provides an insight into the occurrence of non-rhizobial endophytes in the root nodules of several legume species and the beneficial roles of the tripartite interactions between the legumes, the rhizobia and the non-rhizobial endophytes (NREs).},
}

@article {pmid40142366,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, X and Zhang, J and Xia, W and Shao, Y and Liu, Z and Guo, J and Qin, W and Wan, L and Liu, J and Liu, Y and Zhang, J},
title = {Influence of Cover Crop Root Functional Traits on Sweet Potato Yield and Soil Microbial Communities.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40142366},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {JXSNKYJCRC202301//the Special Program for Basic Research and Talent Training of Jiangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences/ ; JXSNKYJCRC202325//the Special Program for Basic Research and Talent Training of Jiangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences/ ; 32060333//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {The symbiotic relationship between cover crops and soil microorganisms is closely linked to nutrient cycling and crop growth within agroecosystems. However, how cover crops with different root functional traits influence soil microbial communities, soil properties, and crop yields has remained understudied. This study assessed the root traits of hairy vetch (HV) and rapeseed (RP), along with soil properties, sweet potato yield, and microbial enzyme activity under red soil dryland conditions. High-throughput sequencing was also employed to characterize the diversity, composition, and network structure of soil bacterial and fungal communities. According to the plant economic spectrum theory and our research results on plant root traits, HV can be identified as a resource-acquisitive cover crop, and RP treatment can be identified as a resource-conservative cover crop. Although RP treatment did not significantly increase the sweet potato yield, the increase rate reached 8.49%. Resource-conservative cover crops were associated with increased pH, SOC, and TP, which enhanced bacterial species diversity and boosted the populations of Chloroflexi and Alphaproteobacteria. In contrast, resource-acquisitive cover crops promoted the proliferation of Gammaproteobacteria. Network analysis indicated that resource-conservative cover crops facilitated network complexity through intensified intra-community competition. Resource-acquisitive cover crops enhanced the stability of microbial communities. Collectively, these findings underscore the distinct advantages of cover crops with varying root functional traits in shaping soil microbial communities. Appropriate cover crop rotations can effectively regulate microbial communities and hold the potential to enhance crop yield.},
}

@article {pmid40142300,
year = {2025},
author = {Cruz Mosquera, FE and Perlaza, CL and Naranjo Rojas, A and Murillo Rios, S and Carrero Gallego, A and Fischersworring, SI and Rodríguez, JS and Liscano, Y},
title = {Effectiveness of Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Symbiotic Supplementation in Cystic Fibrosis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {61},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40142300},
issn = {1648-9144},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cystic Fibrosis/complications/therapy ; *Probiotics/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; *Prebiotics/administration & dosage ; Synbiotics/administration & dosage ; Quality of Life ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; },
abstract = {Background and Objectives: Cystic fibrosis (CF), caused by CFTR gene mutations, primarily affects the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Microbiota modulation through probiotics, prebiotics, or synbiotics may help restore microbial diversity and reduce inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate their efficacy in CF. Materials and Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 2000 and 2024 was conducted in Cochrane, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, LILAC, BMC, PubMed, and SCOPUS following PRISMA guidelines. Methodological quality was assessed using the Jadad scale, and RevMan 5.4[®] estimated effects on pulmonary function (FEV1), exacerbations, hospitalizations, quality of life, and inflammatory markers. Results: Thirteen RCTs (n = 552), mostly in pediatric populations, were included. Most examined probiotics (e.g., Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, L. reuteri), while four used synbiotics. Several studies reported reduced fecal calprotectin and proinflammatory interleukins (e.g., IL-6, IL-8), suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect. However, no significant differences were observed regarding hospitalizations or quality of life. Additionally, none of the studies documented serious adverse events associated with the intervention. The meta-analysis showed no significant decrease in exacerbations (RR = 0.81; 95% CI = 0.48-1.37; p = 0.43) or improvements in FEV1 (MD = 4.7; 95% CI = -5.4 to 14.8; p = 0.37), even in subgroup analyses. Sensitivity analyses did not modify the effect of the intervention on pulmonary function or exacerbation frequency, supporting the robustness of the findings. Conclusions: Current evidence suggests that probiotics or synbiotics yield inconsistent clinical benefits in CF, although some reduction in inflammatory markers may occur. Larger, multicenter RCTs with longer follow-up are needed for clearer conclusions. Until more definitive evidence is available, these supplements should be considered experimental adjuncts rather than standard interventions for CF management.},
}

Humans
*Cystic Fibrosis/complications/therapy
*Probiotics/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
*Prebiotics/administration & dosage
Synbiotics/administration & dosage
Quality of Life
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

@article {pmid40141734,
year = {2025},
author = {Savic, B and Savic, B and Kalezic, T and Dacic-Krnjaja, B and Milosevic, V and Petrovic Pajic, S and Maric, V and Petrovic, T and Stanojlovic, S},
title = {Assessment of IL28 (rs12980275) and (rs8099917) Frequency in Recurrent Ocular Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infection.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15030389},
pmid = {40141734},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {(1) Introduction: The main way of spreading the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) is through direct contact, as the virus enters the host via mucous membranes. Ocular infection can occur as a primary infection or as a recurrent one. The movement of HSV-1 along the ophthalmic branch of the fifth cranial nerve from its latency phase in the trigeminal ganglion and its activation represent a process influenced by various symbiotic factors, such as environmental conditions and the host's genetic characteristics. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of IL28 (rs12980275) and (rs8099917) in recurrent ocular HSV infections. (2) Materials and methods: The study included 60 patients aged over 18, of both sexes, all of whom had a history of herpes simplex labialis (HSL). Patients were tested for HSV-1-specific IgG antibodies, and seropositive individuals were genotyped for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs12980275 and rs8099917. A total of 57 seropositive patients were included in the study. (3) Results: A statistically significant association was found between recurrent HSV keratitis (HSK) and heterozygous GT rs8099917 and homozygous TT rs8099917, as well as heterozygous AG rs12980275 and homozygous AA rs12980275 (p < 0.01). Interestingly, patients with homozygous GG polymorphism for both genotypes GG rs8099917 and GG rs12980275 did not develop recurrent HSV keratitis. (4) Conclusion: The most frequent SNP variations in patients with recurrent HSV disease were heterozygous AG rs12980275 (61.40%) and heterozygous GT rs8099917 (52.63%). Patients with recurrent HSV keratitis lacked the homozygous GG polymorphism in both GG rs8099917 and GG rs12980275 genotypes, suggesting that HSV-seropositive individuals expressing these genotypes may have lower predisposition to develop recurrent stromal HSV keratitis.},
}

@article {pmid40141271,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, J and Lu, Y and Chen, X and Liu, X and Gu, Y and Li, F},
title = {The Silent Conversation: How Small RNAs Shape Plant-Microbe Relationships.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26062631},
pmid = {40141271},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {Qiankehejichu-ZK [2022] Zhongdian 033)//Natural Science Foundation of Guizhou Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis/genetics ; *Plants/microbiology/metabolism/genetics/immunology ; *MicroRNAs/genetics/metabolism ; RNA, Plant/genetics/metabolism ; RNA, Small Interfering/genetics/metabolism ; RNA Interference ; Mycorrhizae/physiology ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Extracellular Vesicles/metabolism/genetics ; Host-Pathogen Interactions/genetics ; },
abstract = {This review highlights the emerging role of cross-kingdom RNA interference in plant-microbe interactions, particularly the transfer of sRNAs from microbes to plants and vice versa, emphasizing the importance of this mechanism in both mutualistic and pathogenic contexts. As plants adapted to terrestrial life, they formed symbiotic relationships with microbes, essential for nutrient uptake and defense. Emerging evidence underscores sRNAs, including small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), as critical regulators of gene expression and immune responses in plant-microbe interactions. In mutualistic symbioses, such as mycorrhizal fungi and nitrogen-fixing bacteria associations, sRNAs are hypothesized to regulate nutrient exchange and symbiotic stability. In pathogenic scenarios, microbes utilize sRNAs to undermine plant defenses, while plants employ strategies like host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) to counteract these threats. We further explore the emerging role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in sRNA transport, which is critical for facilitating interspecies communication in both pathogenic and mutualistic contexts. Although the potential of ckRNAi in mutualistic interactions is promising, the review highlights the need for further experimental validation to establish its true significance in these relationships. By synthesizing current research, this review highlights the intricate molecular dialogues mediated by sRNAs in plant-microbe interactions and identifies critical gaps, proposing future research directions aimed at harnessing these mechanisms for agricultural advancements.},
}

*Symbiosis/genetics
*Plants/microbiology/metabolism/genetics/immunology
*MicroRNAs/genetics/metabolism
RNA, Plant/genetics/metabolism
RNA, Small Interfering/genetics/metabolism
RNA Interference
Mycorrhizae/physiology
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Extracellular Vesicles/metabolism/genetics
Host-Pathogen Interactions/genetics

@article {pmid40140403,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, X and Han, W and Chang, X and Tang, C and Chen, K and Bao, L and Zhang, L and Hu, J and Wang, S and Bao, Z},
title = {High-quality genome assembly of the azooxanthellate coral Tubastraea coccinea (Lesson, 1829).},
journal = {Scientific data},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {507},
pmid = {40140403},
issn = {2052-4463},
mesh = {*Anthozoa/genetics ; Animals ; *Genome ; Coral Reefs ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse and economically significant ecosystems globally, yet they are increasingly degrading due to global climate change and local human activities. The sun coral Tubastraea coccinea (T. coccinea) an obligate heterotroph lacking symbiotic zooxanthellae, exhibits remarkable tolerance to conditions that cause bleaching and mortality in zooxanthellate species. With its extensive low-latitude distribution across multiple oceans, T. coccinea has become a highly invasive species, adversely impacting native species, degrading local ecosystems, and causing significant socio-economic challenges that demand effective management. Despite substantial research efforts, the molecular biology of T. coccinea remains insufficiently characterized. To address this gap, we generated a draft genome assembly for T. coccinea using PacBio Hi-Fi long-read sequencing. The assembly spans 875.9 Mb with a scaffold N50 of 694.3 kb and demonstrates high completeness, with a BUSCO score of 97.4%. A total of 37,307 protein-coding sequences were identified, 95.2% of which were functionally annotated through comparisons with established protein databases. This reference genome provides a valuable resource for understanding the genetic structure of T. coccinea, advancing research into its adaptive mechanism to environmental changes, and informing conservation and management strategies to mitigate its invasive impact.},
}

*Anthozoa/genetics
Animals
*Genome
Coral Reefs
Introduced Species

@article {pmid40138937,
year = {2025},
author = {Sarquah, K and Narra, S and Beck, G and Derkyi, NSA and Awafo, E and Hartmann, M and Nelles, M},
title = {Evaluating opportunities of refuse derived fuel for energy-based industrial symbiosis towards a circular economy - A case study.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {380},
number = {},
pages = {125126},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125126},
pmid = {40138937},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Refuse derived fuel (RDF) production enables the utilisation of municipal solid waste (MSW) as a substitute fuel for industrial applications. This contributes to reducing the challenges of MSW management and associated GHG emissions by substituting conventional fuel. However, RDF quality characteristics rely on the production process and composition, contributing to market value for RDF utilisation. In this study, RDF production from MSW and utilisation potentials were investigated through a case study at a waste-to-energy system in Kumasi, Ghana. The study consisted of field and laboratory experimentation, survey and statistical analysis to assess RDF physicochemical properties and usability options for thermal energy application. The results classify the RDF produced under NCV: II-IV, Cl: II and Hg: I, according to the EN 15359:2011 classification. An average of 14-22 MJ/kg of lower heating values recorded was within the limits for RDF thermal application. Among the potential RDF users surveyed showed positive interest in RDF utilisation as a substitute fuel. However, the outcomes suggest that RDF adoption is highly sensitive to cost concerns, perceived operational barriers, and environmental considerations. Awareness, regulations, and stakeholder support are important in improving perspectives on RDF adoption as an alternative fuel. The results establish opportunities for RDF as an industrial alternative fuel. Also, a contribution to knowledge of the demand-side factors affecting RDF utilisation, especially in Ghana and other emerging economies.},
}

@article {pmid40138088,
year = {2025},
author = {Velandia, K and Foo, E},
title = {Cracking the chitin code: how a single pair of LysM receptors deciphers symbiosis and immunity in Marchantia.},
journal = {Science China. Life sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40138088},
issn = {1869-1889},
}

@article {pmid40137778,
year = {2025},
author = {Papamentzelopoulou, M and Pitiriga, VC},
title = {Unlocking the Interactions Between the Whole-Body Microbiome and HPV Infection: A Literature Review.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens14030293},
pmid = {40137778},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Humans ; *Papillomavirus Infections/immunology/virology ; *Microbiota/physiology ; Female ; Papillomaviridae/genetics ; Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/virology/immunology/microbiology ; Dysbiosis/immunology ; },
abstract = {The human microbiome plays a vital role in maintaining human homeostasis, acting as a key regulator of host immunity and defense mechanisms. However, dysbiotic microbial communities may cause disruption of the symbiotic relationship between the host and the local microbiota, leading to the pathogenesis of various diseases, including viral infections and cancers. One of the most common infectious agents causing cancer is the human papilloma virus (HPV), which accounts for more than 90% of cervical cancers. In most cases, the host immune system is activated and clears HPV, whereas in some cases, the infection persists and can lead to precancerous lesions. Over the last two decades, the advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology and bioinformatics has allowed a thorough and in-depth analysis of the microbial composition in various anatomical niches, allowing researchers to unveil the interactions and the underlying mechanisms through which the human microbiota could affect HPV infection establishment, persistence, and progression. Accordingly, the present narrative review aims to shed light on our understanding of the role of the human microbiome in the context of HPV infection and its progression, mainly to cervical cancer. Furthermore, we explore the mechanisms by which the composition and balance of microbial communities exert potential pathogenic or protective effects, leading to either HPV persistence and disease outcomes or clearance. Special interest is given to how the microbiome can modulate host immunity to HPV infection. Lastly, we summarize the latest findings on the therapeutic efficacy of probiotics and prebiotics in preventing and/or treating HPV infections and the potential of vaginal microbiota transplantation while highlighting the significance of personalized medicine approaches emerging from NGS-based microbiome profiling and artificial intelligence (AI) for the optimal management of HPV-related diseases.},
}

Humans
*Papillomavirus Infections/immunology/virology
*Microbiota/physiology
Female
Papillomaviridae/genetics
Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/virology/immunology/microbiology
Dysbiosis/immunology

@article {pmid40137770,
year = {2025},
author = {Moretti, R and Lim, JT and Ferreira, AGA and Ponti, L and Giovanetti, M and Yi, CJ and Tewari, P and Cholvi, M and Crawford, J and Gutierrez, AP and Dobson, SL and Ross, PA},
title = {Exploiting Wolbachia as a Tool for Mosquito-Borne Disease Control: Pursuing Efficacy, Safety, and Sustainability.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens14030285},
pmid = {40137770},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {*Wolbachia/physiology/genetics ; Animals ; *Mosquito Vectors/microbiology/virology ; *Vector Borne Diseases/prevention & control/transmission ; Humans ; *Mosquito Control/methods ; Female ; Male ; Culicidae/microbiology/virology ; Mosquito-Borne Diseases ; },
abstract = {Despite the application of control measures, mosquito-borne diseases continue to pose a serious threat to human health. In this context, exploiting Wolbachia, a common symbiotic bacterium in insects, may offer effective solutions to suppress vectors or reduce their competence in transmitting several arboviruses. Many Wolbachia strains can induce conditional egg sterility, known as cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI), when infected males mate with females that do not harbor the same Wolbachia infection. Infected males can be mass-reared and then released to compete with wild males, reducing the likelihood of wild females encountering a fertile mate. Furthermore, certain Wolbachia strains can reduce the competence of mosquitoes to transmit several RNA viruses. Through CI, Wolbachia-infected individuals can spread within the population, leading to an increased frequency of mosquitoes with a reduced ability to transmit pathogens. Using artificial methods, Wolbachia can be horizontally transferred between species, allowing the establishment of various laboratory lines of mosquito vector species that, without any additional treatment, can produce sterilizing males or females with reduced vector competence, which can be used subsequently to replace wild populations. This manuscript reviews the current knowledge in this field, describing the different approaches and evaluating their efficacy, safety, and sustainability. Successes, challenges, and future perspectives are discussed in the context of the current spread of several arboviral diseases, the rise of insecticide resistance in mosquito populations, and the impact of climate change. In this context, we explore the necessity of coordinating efforts among all stakeholders to maximize disease control. We discuss how the involvement of diverse expertise-ranging from new biotechnologies to mechanistic modeling of eco-epidemiological interactions between hosts, vectors, Wolbachia, and pathogens-becomes increasingly crucial. This coordination is especially important in light of the added complexity introduced by Wolbachia and the ongoing challenges posed by global change.},
}

*Wolbachia/physiology/genetics
Animals
*Mosquito Vectors/microbiology/virology
*Vector Borne Diseases/prevention & control/transmission
Humans
*Mosquito Control/methods
Female
Male
Culicidae/microbiology/virology
Mosquito-Borne Diseases

@article {pmid40137282,
year = {2025},
author = {Yuan, Y and Lei, Y and Xu, M and Zhao, B and Xu, S},
title = {Bioactive Terpenes from Marine Sponges and Their Associated Organisms.},
journal = {Marine drugs},
volume = {23},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40137282},
issn = {1660-3397},
support = {[2024]28//the Department of Natural Resources of Guangdong Province/ ; no. 42376085//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; no. 21623210//Fundamental Research Funds for Central Universities/ ; },
mesh = {*Porifera/chemistry ; *Terpenes/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification ; Animals ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; *Biological Products/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification ; Humans ; *Aquatic Organisms ; Drug Discovery ; Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {In recent years, marine natural products have continued to serve as a pivotal resource for novel drug discovery. Globally, the number of studies focusing on Porifera has been on the rise, underscoring their considerable importance and research value. Marine sponges are prolific producers of a vast array of bioactive compounds, including terpenes, alkaloids, peptides, and numerous secondary metabolites. Over the past fifteen years, a substantial number of sponge-derived terpenes have been identified, exhibiting extensive structural diversity and notable biological activities. These terpenes have been isolated from marine sponges or their associated symbiotic microorganisms, with several demonstrating multifaceted biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, cytotoxic, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. In this review, we summarize 997 novel terpene metabolites, detailing their structures, sources, and activities, from January 2009 to December 2024. The structural features and structure-activity relationship (SAR) of different types of terpenes are broadly analyzed and summarized. This systematic and comprehensive review will contribute to the summary of and speculation on the taxonomy, activity profiles, and SAR of terpenes and the development of sponge-derived terpenes as potential lead drugs.},
}

*Porifera/chemistry
*Terpenes/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification
Animals
Structure-Activity Relationship
*Biological Products/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification
Humans
*Aquatic Organisms
Drug Discovery
Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification

@article {pmid40137236,
year = {2025},
author = {Prado, T and Degrave, WMS and Duarte, GF},
title = {Lichens and Health-Trends and Perspectives for the Study of Biodiversity in the Antarctic Ecosystem.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40137236},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {203.530/2023//Fundação Carlos Chagas Filho de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro/ ; },
abstract = {Lichens are an important vegetative component of the Antarctic terrestrial ecosystem and present a wide diversity. Recent advances in omics technologies have allowed for the identification of lichen microbiomes and the complex symbiotic relationships that contribute to their survival mechanisms under extreme conditions. The preservation of biodiversity and genetic resources is fundamental for the balance of ecosystems and for human and animal health. In order to assess the current knowledge on Antarctic lichens, we carried out a systematic review of the international applied research published between January 2019 and February 2024, using the PRISMA model (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). Articles that included the descriptors "lichen" and "Antarctic" were gathered from the web, and a total of 110 and 614 publications were retrieved from PubMed and ScienceDirect, respectively. From those, 109 publications were selected and grouped according to their main research characteristics, namely, (i) biodiversity, ecology and conservation; (ii) biomonitoring and environmental health; (iii) biotechnology and metabolism; (iv) climate change; (v) evolution and taxonomy; (vi) reviews; and (vii) symbiosis. Several topics were related to the discovery of secondary metabolites with potential for treating neurodegenerative, cancer and metabolic diseases, besides compounds with antimicrobial activity. Survival mechanisms under extreme environmental conditions were also addressed in many studies, as well as research that explored the lichen-associated microbiome, its biodiversity, and its use in biomonitoring and climate change, and reviews. The main findings of these studies are discussed, as well as common themes and perspectives.},
}

@article {pmid40137227,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, SM and Zhao, G and Niu, KY and Li, RY and Yu, FM and Karunarathna, SC and Li, L and Hyde, KD and Su, XJ and Luo, ZL},
title = {Species Diversity of Edible Mushrooms I-Four New Laccaria Species from Yunnan Province, China.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40137227},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {32260004//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 202305AM070003//Foundation of Yunnan Province Science and Technology Department/ ; YNQR-QNRC 2020-113//High-Level Talents Program of Yunnan Province/ ; },
abstract = {As symbiotic mycorrhizal associates, species within the genus Laccaria play pivotal roles in forest ecosystems, specifically forming ectomycorrhizal relationships with the root systems of various plants. Some Laccaria species are recognized for their edibility, holding potential as a sustainable food source in the context of future food security and dietary diversification. In this study, the species diversity of Laccaria in Yunnan was investigated, and four novel species were identified. Their taxonomical positions and phylogenetic affinities were confirmed through phylogenetic analysis based on ITS, nrLSU, tef1-α, and rpb2 sequence data. Macro- and micro-morphological characteristics of the new species are also given here. Laccaria brownii sp. nov. has a dark to slightly desaturated orange pileus, stipe context broadly fistulose and soft orange, and relatively smaller cheilocystidia and pleurocystidia. Laccaria orangei sp. nov. has a hemispherical to paraboloid pileus, abundant narrowly clavate, flexuose, and branched cheilocystidia. Laccaria ruber sp. nov. pileus is red on the margin, clearly striate on the pileus surface, basidia clavate, mostly four-spored, rarely two-spored. Laccaria stipalba sp. nov. stipe surface is white, long sterigmata (4-13 μm × 2-3 μm), pleurocystidia narrowly clavate to subclavate, flexuose or mucronate, rarely branch. The descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis results of the new taxa are provided. In addition, the new taxa are compared with closely related taxa.},
}

@article {pmid40137207,
year = {2025},
author = {Zheng, T and Wang, L and Ai, M and Gan, Y and Fan, R and Zhang, Y and Worthy, FR and Jin, J and Meng, W and Zhang, S and Wang, X},
title = {Taxonomic Revision of Solorina (Peltigeraceae, Ascomycota), Reveals a New Genus and Three New Species.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40137207},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {2019QZKK0503//the Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research Program (STEP)/ ; 202401AT070196//Yunnan Fundamental Research Project/ ; ZK[2023]-236//Yunnan Young & Elite Talents Project/ ; [2020] 1Y074//Science and Technology Fund of Guizhou/ ; [2023] 07//Guizhou Forestry Research Project/ ; [2023] 01//Doctoral Fund of Guizhou Academy of Sciences/ ; 2020388//Youth Innovation Promotion Association CAS/ ; 31750001//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 31970022//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32460429//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {The lichen genus Solorina exhibits significant morphological and chemical variations between species. Recent molecular studies have demonstrated that Solorina is polyphyletic, underscoring the need for a comprehensive taxonomic revision. Phylogenetic analyses employing Bayesian methods and Maximum Likelihood approaches based on three molecular loci (nrITS, nrLSU, mtSSU) revealed that species of Solorina segregate into two distinct clades. The first clade includes species characterized by bright orange lower surfaces that contain secondary metabolites, notably solorinic acid. The type species, Solorina crocea, is retained in the genus Solorina. The second clade encompasses species with white or brownish lower surfaces; most species lack secondary metabolites and are now classified as a new genus, Pseudosolorina. As a result of this taxonomic revision, two species: S. crocea and S. crocoides remain in the genus Solorina. Five species with white or brownish lower surfaces were transferred to the new genus Pseudosolorina, which consists of three newly described species and five new combinations. Four species previously described as Solorina: S. embolina, S. fuegiensis, S. octospora, and S. platycarpa have morphology consistent with Pseudosolorina, but are currently retained in Solorina due to the absence of supporting DNA sequence data. A key to Solorina and Pseudosolorina is provided. The spores of S. crocea exhibit wall ornamentation featuring rounded papillae, which are distinct from those of Pseudosolorina. Molecular data and morphological characters also indicate that both Solorina and Pseudosolorina engage in symbiotic associations with photobionts cyanobacteria Nostoc and chlorophytes Coccomyxa or Asterochloris.},
}

@article {pmid40135586,
year = {2025},
author = {Fan, X and Zhou, X and He, J and Xie, H and Tang, N and Tang, M and Xie, X},
title = {Spray-induced gene silencing of three G-protein signaling genes from the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Rhizophagus irregularis inhibits spore germination and hyphopodium formation.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70091},
pmid = {40135586},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {32370108//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32170116//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022A1515012013//Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {About 70% of land plants form symbioses with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. Some plant genes important for accommodating AM fungi within roots have been characterized, but AM fungal genes involved in asymbiotic growth and hyphopodium formation remain elusive due to a lack of methods for genetic manipulation. Here, we introduce an innovative gene silencing technology based on spraying double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to characterize the functions of three genes encoding G-protein signaling proteins, including the regulator of G-protein signaling RiRgs3, the Gα subunit RiGpa3, and the Gβ subunit RiGpb1 from the AM fungus Rhizophagus irregularis at the asymbiotic and initial symbiotic stages. RiRgs3, RiGpa3, and RiGpb1 expression is induced in the early stages of AM symbiosis. Using spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS), we discovered that R. irregularis can take up dsRNA. Moreover, SIGS of RiRgs3, RiGpa3, or RiGpb1 led to defects in spore germination and hyphopodium formation. In conclusion, our results reveal that SIGS is a suitable technique for the analysis of gene function in AM fungi and that G-protein signaling is required for spore germination and hyphopodium formation.},
}

@article {pmid40134337,
year = {2025},
author = {Wong, KK and Papachristou, E and Francesconi, M and Dekkers, TJ},
title = {Editorial: 'Like a bee and a flower' - the symbiotic relationship between physical environment and children and young people's psychosocial outcomes.},
journal = {Child and adolescent mental health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/camh.12773},
pmid = {40134337},
issn = {1475-357X},
support = {ES/Y004906/1//UKRI Economic Social Research Council Policy Fellowship/ ; },
abstract = {This special issue captures the multifaceted and dynamic human-environment relationship across a critical stage of development and illustrates the importance of the physical environment in understanding child and adolescent mental health. Illustrated through original articles, action research, systematic reviews, debates, editorial perspectives and commentaries, our authors showcase the nuances of this relationship through diverse methodologies, data sources, interdisciplinary teams and international perspectives. Authors evidence the impact of physical environmental characteristics on psychosocial outcomes early in life, for both community and clinical populations. Exposure to adversities early in life or during critical developmental periods, such as early childhood and adolescence, has the potential to shape later life outcomes. We hope this special issue provides helpful examples of good practice and the ways of working together needed to inspire future youth-led context-specific health research. We also hope that this special issue can encourage us to rethink public health and education policies, urban planning and design priorities, and clinical research and practice to have young people in the centre of this work.},
}

@article {pmid40134242,
year = {2025},
author = {Trombley, J and Celenza, JL and Frey, SD and Anthony, MA},
title = {Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Boost Development of an Invasive Brassicaceae.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.15508},
pmid = {40134242},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {//This study was supported by the Dick George Invasives Fund awarded to S.D.F. and M.A.A. M.A.A. was supported by a Vienna Science and Technology Fund (WWTF) Vienna Research Groups for Young Investigators grant awarded to MAA (VRG22-007)./ ; },
abstract = {Invasive plant growth is affected by interactions with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). AMF are mutualists of most land plants but suppress the growth of many plants within the Brassicaceae, a large plant family including many invasive species. Alliaria petiolata (garlic mustard) is a nonnative, nonmycorrhizal Brassicaceae distributed throughout North America in forest understories where native species rely on AMF. If AMF suppress growth of garlic mustard, it may be possible to inoculate AMF to manage invasions. Here, we show that in contrast to expectation, garlic mustard growth nearly doubled in response to AMF inoculation under both laboratory and field conditions. This effect was negatively linked to investments in glucosinolates, a class of defensive compounds. In contrast to typical symbiosis, AMF did not produce arbuscules where nutrient exchange occurs in roots, but AMF inoculation increased plant and soil nitrogen availability. Our findings reveal an adjacent pathway by which AMF promote invasive plant growth without classic symbiotic exchanges. Prior assumptions that garlic mustard suppresses AMF are inadequate to explain invasion success since it benefits from interactions with AMF. This study is the first to demonstrate extensive growth promotion following AMF inoculation in mustard plants, with important implications for invasion biology and agriculture.},
}

@article {pmid40130645,
year = {2025},
author = {Kennedy, PG and Smith, ME},
title = {Mountains are not like poles for symbiotic and saprotrophic soil fungi.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70084},
pmid = {40130645},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {2019518//US National Science Foundation/ ; 2106069//US National Science Foundation/ ; },
}

@article {pmid40130204,
year = {2025},
author = {Chei, E and Conti-Jerpe, IE and Pons, L and Baker, DM},
title = {Changes within the coral symbiosis underpin seasonal trophic plasticity in reef corals.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {ycae162},
pmid = {40130204},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Scleractinian corals are mixotrophic organisms that use both autotrophic and heterotrophic pathways to fulfill their metabolic needs. Corals span a spectrum of trophic strategies and vary in their dependence on associated algal symbionts, with certain species capable of increasing heterotrophic feeding to compensate for the loss of autotrophic nutrition. As this ability can improve the likelihood of survival following marine heat waves and environmental disturbance, the continued threat of global and local stressors necessitates the investigation of trophic plasticity to determine coral responses to changing conditions. Here, we examined trophic strategy shifts between wet (high temperature and light) and dry (low temperature and light) seasons for seven genera of scleractinian corals by applying a Bayesian statistical model to determine the isotopic niches of paired coral hosts and their symbionts. Using a novel index (Host Evaluation: Reliance on Symbionts), trophic strategy was evaluated along a continuum of mixotrophy for each season. Three genera exhibited significant trophic shifts and were more heterotrophic in the dry season, likely as a mechanism to compensate for decreased symbiont functioning under lower temperatures and irradiance during these months. The magnitude of trophic plasticity varied across genera, and this pattern was positively correlated with global distribution. Together, our findings substantiate taxonomic differences in nutritional flexibility and provide support for trophic plasticity as a distinguishing trait for understanding coral biogeography.},
}

@article {pmid40129736,
year = {2025},
author = {He, M and Wang, Q and Wang, Y and Zhang, J},
title = {Temporal dynamics of soil microbial symbioses in the root zone of wolfberry: deciphering the effects of biotic and abiotic factors on bacterial and fungal ecological networks.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1518439},
pmid = {40129736},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Long-term monoculture of Lycium barbarum significantly affects its productivity and soil health. Soil microbiota, which mediate the sustainable development of soil ecosystems, are influenced by the age of wolfberry plants. However, the comprehensive effects of long-term cultivation of L. barbarum on the soil microbial community are not yet fully understood. Here, we assessed the effects of stand age on the diversity, composition, assembly, and symbiotic networks of bacterial and fungal communities in the root zone soil of L. barbarum using high-throughput sequencing technology. The results showed that stand age significantly affected the α-diversity of bacterial and fungal communities, as evidenced by the tendency of their Shannon and Chao1 indices to increase and then decrease. At the same time, the structure of soil bacterial and fungal communities was significantly influenced by tree age. However, Proteobacteria (28.77%-32.81%) was always the most dominant bacterial phylum, and Ascomycetes (49.72%-55.82%) was always the most dominant fungal phylum. A number of genus-level biomarkers were also identified in soils associated with roots of trees of varying ages. Additionally, stochastic processes dominated the assembly of soil bacterial communities, whereas the balance between stochastic and deterministic processes in the assembly of fungal communities fluctuated with stand age. The complexity and stability of bacterial and fungal community networks were notably affected by tree age, particularly in networks from 10- and 15-year-old trees. The partial least squares path modeling (PLS-PM) analysis emphasized that stand age can indirectly regulate the diversity and network complexity of both bacterial and fungal communities by influencing soil physicochemical properties. Furthermore, the bacterial community, but not the fungal community, exhibited direct and strong regulation of network complexity. The study offers valuable data for improving the soil quality and fruit yield of L. barbarum under long-term continuous cropping, which has implications for the sustainable development of the L. barbarum industry.},
}

@article {pmid40128227,
year = {2025},
author = {Laanisto, L and Pavanetto, N and Puglielli, G and Gerz, M and Bueno, CG},
title = {Contrasting mycorrhizal functionality in abiotic stress tolerance of woody species.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {10123},
pmid = {40128227},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {Arctic grant//Eesti Teaduste Akadeemia/ ; by IJC2020-043331-I//MCIN/AEI/ ; MCIN/AEI//PID2021-122214NA-I00/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Stress, Physiological ; Droughts ; Symbiosis/physiology ; Wood/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Current understanding of how woody plants respond to abiotic stress and how mycorrhizal interactions mitigate this stress is limited, as research has mostly focused on single stress factors. The diverse range of woody plants and mycorrhizal fungi, and the varying intensity and composition of multiple stress factors in different regions worldwide, have made it difficult to study these highly functional symbiotic interactions from a global perspective. Here, we used a top-down approach that involved partitioning known interactions into functional types, and mapping stress tolerances and interactions into overlapping heatmaps. We used a comprehensive dataset of 621 woody species' tolerance of shade, drought, waterlogging, and cold stress, as well as their mycorrhizal interaction data, to test how stress polytolerance correlates with different functional types of mycorrhiza. We show that single mycorrhizal type associates with shade tolerance, while dual type with cold and waterlogging tolerance. Both arbuscular mycorrhiza and obligate interactions are more abundant in drought stress tolerance conditions, while ectomycorrhiza and facultative interactions are found in more cold and waterlogged stressful conditions. Thus, functionally distinct mycorrhizal interactions form significantly contrasting stress mitigation patterns with woody species, providing insights into both evolutionary and biogeographic patterns related to the development of plant-mycorrhiza interactions.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Stress, Physiological
Droughts
Symbiosis/physiology
Wood/microbiology

@article {pmid40125797,
year = {2025},
author = {Gresshoff, PM and Su, C and Su, H and Hastwell, A and Cha, Y and Zhang, M and Grundy, EB and Chu, X and Ferguson, BJ and Li, X},
title = {Functional genomics dissection of the nodulation autoregulation pathway (AON) in soybean (Glycine max).},
journal = {Journal of integrative plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jipb.13898},
pmid = {40125797},
issn = {1744-7909},
support = {32330078//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32441047//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; DP190102996//the Australian Research Council Discovery Project/ ; },
abstract = {The combination of mutation-based genetics and functional genomics has allowed a detailed dissection of the nodulation-induction and autoregulation of nodulation (AON) pathways of soybean. Applicable to all legumes, nodulation is induced by Rhizobium/Bradyrhizobium-produced lipopolysaccharides (Nod factors), perceived by Nod factor receptors (NFR1/NFR5 dimers), leading to cortical and pericycle cell divisions. These induce the production of Clavata3-like (CLE) peptides, which travel in the xylem to the shoot, where they are perceived by a receptor complex including a leucine-rich repeat (LRR) receptor kinase, encoded by GmNARK, LjHAR1, MtSUNN and closely related receptors in other legumes like Phaseolus vulgaris (common bean), Pisum sativum (pea), and Glycine soja. The activated receptor complex negatively regulates by phosphorylation of the constitutive synthesis of miR2111 in the shoot. This is normally is translocated via the phloem to the entire plant body, initiating suppression of a root-expressed Kelch repeat-containing F-box protein "Too Much Love (TML)," which in turn suppresses the nodule initiation cascade. Nodulation is therefore permitted during a developmental window between the induction and progress of the nodulation/cell division/infection cascade during the first few days after inoculation and the functional "readiness" of the AON cascade, delayed by the root-shoot-root loop. Loss-of-function mutations in GmNARK and LjTML result in excessive nodulation (supernodulation/hypernodulation/supernummary nodulation) as well as localized tolerance to externally applied nitrate. Recent analyses have indicated an interaction of the AON with lateral root formation as well as with the autoregulation of mycorrhization (AOM). Further details of the parallel functions of key points in this regulatory loop remain to be elucidated.},
}

@article {pmid40125611,
year = {2025},
author = {Tsuda, H and Iwai, K and Hayashizaki, N},
title = {Pseudovitamin B12 producing Loigolactobacillus coryniformis enhances soy milk fermentation by Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus.},
journal = {Journal of the science of food and agriculture},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jsfa.14239},
pmid = {40125611},
issn = {1097-0010},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Fermenting soy milk with lactic acid bacteria is challenging. Generally, carbohydrates are added to enhance the acid production in soy milk. However, the yoghurt starter Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus did not succeed in fermenting soy milk supplemented with carbohydrates. If this yoghurt starter could be used with soy milk, it is expected that it would produce a yoghurt-like flavour, making soy yoghurt more appealing. In this study, we aimed to ferment soy milk using Lb. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and pseudovitamin B12-producing lactic acid bacteria.

RESULTS: Loigolactobacillus coryniformis SAB01 was found to produce corrinoid in soy milk, with the highest production being observed at 20 °C. The produced corrinoid was identified as pseudovitamin B12 using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Another bacterial strain, Lb. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus NBRC 13953, was examined for its ability to produce lactic acid in soy milk. Compared with soy milk supplemented with glucose or cyanocobalamin alone, the highest lactic acid production was observed in soy milk supplemented with both glucose and cyanocobalamin. These findings indicate that the combined addition of glucose and cyanocobalamin enhances lactic acid production by strain NBRC 13953 in soy milk. We accordingly examined lactic acid production in soy milk inoculated with strains SAB01 and NBRC 13953, and found that a substantial quantity of lactic acid was produced when glucose was added to soy milk.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings in this study indicate that the growth of Lb. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus NBRC 13953 was promoted by the pseudovitamin B12 produced by Loigolactobacillus coryniformis SAB01, thereby suggesting a novel symbiotic relationship between these two lactic acid bacteria in soy milk. © 2025 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid40124518,
year = {2025},
author = {Pinko, D and Langlet, D and Sur, O and Husnik, F and Holzmann, M and Rubin-Blum, M and Rahav, E and Belkin, N and Kucera, M and Morard, R and Abdu, U and Upcher, A and Abramovich, S},
title = {Long-term functional kleptoplasty in benthic foraminifera.},
journal = {iScience},
volume = {28},
number = {3},
pages = {112028},
pmid = {40124518},
issn = {2589-0042},
abstract = {Foraminifera are highly diverse rhizarian protists, with some lineages having developed the ability to retain chloroplasts from algal prey (kleptoplasty). Recently, we revealed the evolutionary relationship between kleptoplasty and algal symbiosis in the benthic foraminifera Hauerina diversa. In this study, we explored fundamental aspects of host-kleptoplast interactions. The photosynthetic rates of H. diversa show the sequestered kleptoplast activity under a wide range of light intensities with no signs of photoinhibition. This lack of photoinhibition response may be attributed to the loss of key elements responsible for this process during the acquisition of kleptoplasts. Our study demonstrates the stability and notably extended retention of kleptoplasty in H. diversa, evidenced by its plastid retention under conditions of heterotrophic feeding deprivation for 50 days. The host-kleptoplast interactions suggest that H. diversa is highly committed to this partnership and that this kleptoplasty species likely relies on similar kleptoplast/alga maintenance mechanisms as symbiont-bearing foraminifera.},
}

@article {pmid40122915,
year = {2025},
author = {Asghari, B and Hoseinzadeh, M and Mafakheri, S},
title = {Enhancing drought resistance in Dracocephalum moldavica L. through mycorrhizal fungal inoculation and melatonin foliar application.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {10051},
pmid = {40122915},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Melatonin/metabolism/pharmacology ; *Droughts ; *Lamiaceae/metabolism/physiology ; Symbiosis ; Chlorophyll/metabolism ; Antioxidants/metabolism ; Plant Leaves/metabolism/microbiology ; Oxidative Stress ; Stress, Physiological ; Chlorophyll A/metabolism ; Drought Resistance ; },
abstract = {This research focused on improving the drought tolerance of Dracocephalum moldavica, a plant vulnerable to water stress, by exploring the combined effects of melatonin spray and mycorrhizal fungus Glomus intraradices inoculation. The experiment was designed as a factorial randomized study to evaluate the plant's morphological, physiological, and phytochemical responses under different drought conditions (100%, 75%, and 50% field capacity). The findings revealed that the combination of melatonin and mycorrhizal inoculation significantly improved the morphological traits of Moldavian balm under drought conditions. Under severe drought (50% field capacity), chlorophyll a and b levels increased by 26.3% and 35.5%, respectively, when both treatments were applied. Stress indicators, including electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde content, were substantially reduced with the simultaneous application of melatonin and mycorrhizal symbiosis, indicating decreased cellular damage. Moreover, the combined treatment resulted in the highest activities of the antioxidant enzymes catalase and peroxidase, suggesting that these treatments bolster the plant's oxidative stress defense mechanisms. Additionally, drought stress alone led to an increase in secondary metabolites like phenolic and flavonoid compounds, which were further amplified by the treatments. The study also observed significant alterations in the essential oil composition of the plant. Drought stress increased the levels of α-pinene, 1,8-cineole, and borneol, and these increases were even more pronounced with the combined treatments. Conversely, the levels of geraniol and geranial decreased under drought stress and further with treatment. Overall, this research demonstrates that melatonin and Glomus intraradices inoculation can effectively enhance drought tolerance in Dracocephalum moldavica by improving its physiological characteristics and biochemical composition.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Melatonin/metabolism/pharmacology
*Droughts
*Lamiaceae/metabolism/physiology
Symbiosis
Chlorophyll/metabolism
Antioxidants/metabolism
Plant Leaves/metabolism/microbiology
Oxidative Stress
Stress, Physiological
Chlorophyll A/metabolism
Drought Resistance

@article {pmid40122597,
year = {2025},
author = {Su, R and Wen, W and Jin, Y and Cao, Z and Feng, Z and Chen, J and Lu, Y and Zhou, G and Dong, C and Gao, S and Li, X and Zhang, H and Chao, K and Lan, P and Wu, X and Philips, A and Li, K and Gao, X and Zhang, F and Zuo, T},
title = {Dietary whey protein protects against Crohn's disease by orchestrating cross-kingdom interaction between the gut phageome and bacteriome.},
journal = {Gut},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/gutjnl-2024-334516},
pmid = {40122597},
issn = {1468-3288},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The gut microbiome and diet are important factors in the pathogenesis and management of Crohn's disease (CD). However, the role of the gut phageome under dietary influences is unknown.

OBJECTIVE: We aim to explore the effect of diet on the gut phageome-bacteriome interaction linking to CD protection.

DESIGN: We recruited CD patients and healthy subjects (n=140) and conducted a multiomics investigation, including paired ileal mucosa phageome and bacteriome profiling, dietary survey and phenome interrogation. We screened for the effect of diet on the gut phageome and bacteriome, as well as its epidemiological association with CD risks. The underlying mechanisms were explored in target phage-bacteria monocultures and cocultures in vitro and in two mouse models in vivo.

RESULTS: On dietary screening in humans, whey protein (WP) consumption was found to profoundly impact the gut phageome and bacteriome (more pronounced on the phageome) and was associated with a lower CD risk. Indeed, the WP reshaped gut phageome can causally attenuate intestinal inflammation, as shown by faecal phageome versus bacteriome transplantation from WP-consuming versus WP-non-consuming mice to recipient mice. Mechanistically, WP induced phage (a newly isolated phage AkkZT003P herein) lysis of the mucin-foraging bacterium Akkermansia muciniphila, which unleashed the symbiotic bacterium Streptococcus thermophilus to counteract intestinal inflammation.

CONCLUSION: Our study charted the importance of cross-kingdom interaction between gut phage and bacteria in mediating the dietary effect on CD protection. Importantly, we uncovered a beneficial dietary WP, a keystone phage AkkZT003P, and a probiotic S. thermophilus that can be used in CD management in the future.},
}

@article {pmid40122008,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, S and Qian, J and Zhu, Y and Lu, B and He, Y and Liu, Y and Xu, K and Shen, J},
title = {Polystyrene nanoplastics reshape the peatland plants (Sphagnum) bacteriome under simulated wet-deposition pathway: Insights into unequal impact of ecological niches.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {491},
number = {},
pages = {138004},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.138004},
pmid = {40122008},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Nanoplastics (NPs) enter peatlands through atmospheric deposition, yet their effects on Sphagnum bacterial communities (SBCs) and plant-self remain unknown. We hypothesize that NPs alter the composition, structure, and co-occurrence pattern of epiphytes (Epi) and endophytes (En), thereby differentially affecting the growth and physiological performance of Sphagnum. The 30-day simulated wet deposition experiment was conducted to test this. Here, polystyrene NPs reduced the α-diversity of SBCs, unevenly reshaped the structure of Epi and En. Mfuzz clustering was used to reveal the co-abundance behavior of SBCs, and the null model found SBCs relied on stochastic assembly, formed stable Epi molecular ecological network (MEN) and connected En MEN. NPs disrupted symbiosis of SBCs, with high-abundance phyla reductions impacting MENs and low-abundance phyla affecting the inter-domain ecological network (IDEN) between Epi and En. Increasingly positive NPs (from carboxyl-modified to unmodified, and then to amino-modified NPs) further decreased SBCs abundance. Key clusters of Proteobacteria (Pro.), with α-Pro. and γ-Pro. as module hubs of MENs, and β-Pro. as a network hub in the IDEN, could reflect these changes. Additionally, NPs lowered plant spread area (P < 0.05) and chlorophyll content (P < 0.01), but the reduction in biomass was not significant. Structural equation modeling showed reduced SBCs α-diversity alleviated the NPs phytotoxicity (up to 33.31 % offset), as genetic analysis revealed that methane oxidation, carbon fixation, and trace element metabolism may upregulate plant nutrient supply. Our findings offer critical insights into NPs deposition risks in remote areas and highlight the responses of plant-bacteriome symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid40119757,
year = {2025},
author = {Radice, VZ and Gijsbers, JC and Vimercati, S and Barshis, DJ},
title = {First reference genomes for two mesophotic, reef-building coral species: Leptoseris cf. scabra and Montipora cf. grisea.},
journal = {The Journal of heredity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jhered/esaf010},
pmid = {40119757},
issn = {1465-7333},
abstract = {Coral mortality is occurring worldwide at an alarming rate. Despite the immense and underestimated biodiversity of reef-building corals, very few genomes are available. Further, almost all genomic resources originate from shallow water corals even though photosynthetic, symbiotic corals occur at mesophotic depths deeper than 30 m and even >100 m. We present annotated, de novo genomes for two mesophotic, scleractinian (reef-building) corals Montipora cf. grisea and Leptoseris cf. scabra from American Sāmoa, the latter being the first genome for the widespread genus Leptoseris. We used PacBio continuous long reads and Omni-C data to assemble chromosome-level reference genomes. For Montipora cf. grisea, the final genome size was 1.3 Gb with a completeness level (BUSCO) of 99.9% and 97.2% against the eukaryotic and metazoan databases, respectively. The M. cf. grisea genome had a N50 of 50.2 Mb and the annotation predicted 41,981 genes. For Leptoseris cf. scabra, the final genome size was 794 Mb with a BUSCO of 99.2% and 96.1% against the eukaryotic and metazoan databases, respectively. The L. cf. scabra genome had a N50 of 45.2 Mb and 35,741 predicted genes. These genomes serve as critical references for the analysis of coral gene expression responses to climate change such as ocean warming (i.e., coral bleaching) and ocean acidification impacts. The genomes can be used to investigate the genetic diversity and adaptive divergence of shallow vs. mesophotic coral populations to understand reef resilience and guide conservation strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40118413,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Z and Mou, R and Jin, S and Wang, Q and Ju, Y and Sun, P and Xie, R and Wang, K},
title = {Streptococcus anginosus promotes gastric cancer progression via GSDME-mediated pyroptosis pathway: Molecular mechanisms of action of GSDME, cleaved caspase-3, and NLRP3 proteins.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {307},
number = {Pt 4},
pages = {142341},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.142341},
pmid = {40118413},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {Streptococcus vasculosus is a common oral and intestinal symbiotic bacteria, but it can transform into a pathogen under certain conditions, affecting the host's immune response. Studies have shown that Streptococcus vasculosus may promote tumor growth and metastasis by activating host inflammatory responses. This study simulated the environment of Streptococcus vascularis infection through in vitro cell culture experiment, and observed the influence of streptococcus vascularis at different time points and different concentrations on cancer cells. The expression and activity of GSDME, cleaved caspase-3 and NLRP3 proteins were detected by Western blot, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. By constructing gene knockout and overexpression cell models, the role of these protein molecules in promoting cancer progression of Streptococcus vascularis was further verified. It was found that GSDME activation is a key step in Pyroptosis occurrence, and cleaved caspase-3 plays an important role in GSDME cleavage activation. The activation of NLRP3 inflammatome is closely related to the inflammatory response induced by Streptococcus vasculosus, and thus affects the tumor microenvironment.},
}

@article {pmid40118036,
year = {2025},
author = {Hochstrasser, M},
title = {A cut above: Bacterial deubiquitinases with ubiquitin clippase activity.},
journal = {Molecular cell},
volume = {85},
number = {6},
pages = {1048-1050},
doi = {10.1016/j.molcel.2025.02.023},
pmid = {40118036},
issn = {1097-4164},
mesh = {*Deubiquitinating Enzymes/metabolism/genetics ; *Ubiquitin/metabolism ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry ; Ubiquitination ; Bacteria/enzymology/genetics ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Pathogenic or symbiotic bacteria residing inside eukaryotic cells often foil attempts to eliminate them by secreting deubiquitinases into the host. In this issue of Molecular Cell, Hermanns et al.[1] uncover an unexpected "clippase" activity in certain bacterial deubiquitinases, which cleaves substrate-linked ubiquitin within the ubiquitin C terminus, thereby inactivating it.},
}

*Deubiquitinating Enzymes/metabolism/genetics
*Ubiquitin/metabolism
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry
Ubiquitination
Bacteria/enzymology/genetics
Humans

@article {pmid40117186,
year = {2025},
author = {Ha, SH and Lee, MS and Park, MJ and Kwon, KK and Park, JS},
title = {Roseovarius conchicola sp. nov. and Aliiroseovarius conchicola sp. nov., isolated from the marine conch Reishia bronni.},
journal = {International journal of systematic and evolutionary microbiology},
volume = {75},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/ijsem.0.006725},
pmid = {40117186},
issn = {1466-5034},
mesh = {*RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Republic of Korea ; *Phylogeny ; *Fatty Acids ; *Bacterial Typing Techniques ; *DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; *Sequence Analysis, DNA ; *Base Composition ; Seawater/microbiology ; Arsenic/metabolism ; Phospholipids ; },
abstract = {The intertidal zone is an area located between the marine environment and the terrestrial environment and is exposed to various stresses. To investigate the mutualistic relationship between hosts and symbiotic micro-organisms inhabiting the intertidal zone, strains 2305UL8-3[T] and 2305UL8-7[T] were isolated from Reishia bronni, a species living in the intertidal zone of Ulleungdo Island, South Korea. Both strains are Gram-stain-negative, catalase- and oxidase-positive and facultatively anaerobic. Strains 2305UL8-3[T] and 2305UL8-7[T] grow optimally at 30.0 °C and 28.0-30.0 °C, respectively, under conditions of pH 8.0 and 3.0 % (w/v) NaCl. They have Q-10 as the primary quinone, and their common main fatty acids are C16:0 and summed feature 8 (C18:1 ω7c and/or C18:1 ω6c). Additionally, their primary polar lipids include phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylglycerol. The two novel strains have an arsenic reduction pathway that reduces the oxidation state of arsenic and are expected to influence environmental regulation processes through the catabolic sulphate reduction system. Based on these characteristics, they exhibit resistance potential to environmental stresses, specifically arsenic exposure in the intertidal zone, where arsenic contamination is often associated with pollution and tidal fluctuations. Analysing the 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, strain 2305UL8-3[T] shared 96.60 % similarity with Roseovarius faecimaris MME-070[T], while strain 2305UL8-7[T] showed 98.13 % similarity with Aliiroseovarius sediminilitoris M-M10[T]. Polyphasic analysis revealed that strains 2305UL8-3[T] and 2305UL8-7[T] should be identified as novel species within the genera Roseovarius and Aliiroseovarius, respectively. Therefore, Roseovarius conchicola sp. nov. with the type strain 2305UL8-3[T] (=KCTC 8475[T]=MCCC 1K09523[T]=JCM 37202[T]) and Aliiroseovarius conchicola sp. nov. with the type strain 2305UL8-7[T] (=KCTC 8476[T]=MCCC 1K09524[T]=JCM 37203[T]) are proposed.},
}

*RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Republic of Korea
*Phylogeny
*Fatty Acids
*Bacterial Typing Techniques
*DNA, Bacterial/genetics
*Sequence Analysis, DNA
*Base Composition
Seawater/microbiology
Arsenic/metabolism
Phospholipids

@article {pmid40116496,
year = {2025},
author = {Baa-Puyoulet, P and Gerlin, L and Parisot, N and Peignier, S and Renoz, F and Calevro, F and Charles, H},
title = {ArtSymbioCyc, a metabolic network database collection dedicated to arthropod symbioses: a case study, the tripartite cooperation in Sipha maydis.},
journal = {mSystems},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0014025},
doi = {10.1128/msystems.00140-25},
pmid = {40116496},
issn = {2379-5077},
abstract = {Most arthropods live in close association with bacteria. The genomes of associated partners have co-evolved, creating situations of interdependence that are complex to decipher despite the availability of their complete sequences. We developed ArtSymbioCyc, a metabolism-oriented database collection gathering genomic resources for arthropods and their associated bacteria. ArtSymbioCyc uses the powerful tools of the BioCyc community to produce high-quality annotations and to analyze and compare metabolic networks on a genome-wide scale. We used ArtSymbioCyc to study the case of the tripartite symbiosis of the cereal aphid Sipha maydis focusing on amino acid and vitamin metabolisms, as these compounds are known to be important in this strictly phloemophagous insect. We showed that the metabolic pathways of the insect host and its two obligate bacterial associates are interdependent and specialized in the exploitation of Poaceae phloem, particularly for the biosynthesis of sulfur-containing amino acids and most vitamins. This demonstrates that ArtSymbioCyc does not only reveal the individual metabolic capacities of each partner and their respective contributions to the holobiont they constitute but also allows to predict the essential inputs that must come from host nutrition.IMPORTANCEThe evolution has driven the emergence of complex arthropod-microbe symbiotic systems, whose metabolic integration is difficult to unravel. With its user-friendly interface, ArtSymbioCyc (https://artsymbiocyc.cycadsys.org) eases and speeds up the analysis of metabolic networks by enabling precise inference of compound exchanges between associated partners and helps unveil the adaptive potential of arthropods in contexts such as conservation or agricultural control.},
}

@article {pmid40116466,
year = {2025},
author = {Stillson, PT and Martinez, K and Adamson, J and Tehrani, A and Ravenscraft, A},
title = {Temperature influences outcomes of an environmentally acquired symbiosis.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wraf056},
pmid = {40116466},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {Microbial symbioses are essential for many animals, but their outcomes are often context dependent. For example, rising temperatures can disrupt symbioses by eliminating thermally sensitive symbionts. The temperature tolerance of a symbiont may therefore limit the temperature range of its host, but switching to a more thermally tolerant partner could expand this range. Eastern leaf footed bugs (Leptoglossus phyllopus) depend on symbiotic Caballeronia bacteria which they must acquire from the environment early in development. Could this result in intergenerational partner switching that improves host outcomes under changing conditions? As a first step towards answering this question, we tested the hypothesis that host outcomes in this symbiosis vary among symbiont strains in a temperature-dependent manner. Nymphs were provided with one of six Caballeronia strains with varying thermal optima and reared at temperatures from 24 - 40°C. We observed temperature- and strain-dependent tradeoffs in host outcomes, with different strains conferring improved host weight, development time, and survival at cooler versus warmer temperatures. Differences in host outcomes were most pronounced at high temperatures, with some strains imposing severe costs. However, Caballeronia's in vitro thermal optima did not predict in vivo outcomes. Regardless, strain - and temperature - dependent outcomes suggest that environmental symbiont acquisition could mitigate the effects of thermal stress on host populations. It is often assumed that vertical transmission of a beneficial symbiont from parent to offspring is the optimal strategy, but our results suggest that environmental acquisition could offer unique benefits under changing conditions.},
}

@article {pmid40115730,
year = {2025},
author = {Fujimoto, R and Kuchida, M and Ban-Tokuda, T and Matsui, H},
title = {Isolation and molecular identification of Lactobacillaceae bacteria and Bifidobacterium from horse feces.},
journal = {Journal of equine science},
volume = {36},
number = {1},
pages = {39-43},
pmid = {40115730},
issn = {1340-3516},
abstract = {The equine large intestine harbors a diverse array of symbiotic microorganisms. Disruptions in the gut microbiota can lead to various diseases in horses. Probiotics offer promising avenues for enhancing equine health and performance. However, commercial formulations lack robust scientific validation. This study aimed to isolate and identify Lactobacillaceae and Bifidobacterium spp. from horse feces to explore their potential as probiotics. Fecal samples from Thoroughbred horses were subjected to isolation procedures. Lactic acid-producing bacteria were isolated using specific media and identified. The results revealed the isolation of Lactobacillaceae strains, including Limosilactobacillus equigenerosi, Ligilactobacillus equi, Ligilactobacillus agilis, and a Bifidobacterium sp., Bifidobacterium pseudolongum. These findings contribute to the understanding of equine gut microbiota and offer insights into potential probiotic candidates.},
}

@article {pmid40115193,
year = {2025},
author = {Jiang, Y and Li, M and Guo, X},
title = {Spartina alterniflora modifies the native arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community in coastal ecosystem.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1544111},
pmid = {40115193},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The effect of invasive plants is mediated by their interactions with microbial communities. However, it is still uncertain how Spartina alterniflora impacts the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) community within the native rhizosphere what the resulting AMF differences are associated with. Here, we investigated what kind of AMF communities are formed in the roots of S. alterniflora to distinguish it from native plants such as Suaeda salsa, Phragmites australis, and Tamarix chinensis by analyzing the AMF communities and the associations with selected environmental factors. The dynamics of AM fungal communities are linked to plant-soil systems. The AMF communities of S. alterniflora and native vegetation demonstrated notable differences in composition, diversity, and symbiotic networks. Significantly higher ω, Ec, AN, AP, and AK were observed in S. alterniflora-invaded soils. Although plant rhizosphere AMF responded to soil environmental factors, AN and AP were highly explanatory environmental factors driving AMF community characteristics during S. alterniflora expansion, while increased soil P and N availability may be involved in shaping AMF community characteristics in S. alterniflora. Our findings can provide complementary evidence-based solutions for defending against invasive plants and mitigating their impacts, as well as protecting coastal ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid40113782,
year = {2025},
author = {Park, G and Johnson, K and Miller, K and Kadyan, S and Singar, S and Patoine, C and Hao, F and Lee, Y and Patterson, AD and Arjmandi, B and Kris-Etherton, PM and Berryman, CE and Nagpal, R},
title = {Almond snacking modulates gut microbiome and metabolome in association with improved cardiometabolic and inflammatory markers.},
journal = {NPJ science of food},
volume = {9},
number = {1},
pages = {35},
pmid = {40113782},
issn = {2396-8370},
support = {ECP-Nagpal-NR-001//Almond Board of California/ ; 24A05//Florida Department of Health/ ; },
abstract = {Western-style dietary patterns have been linked with obesity and associated metabolic disorders and gut dysbiosis, whereas prudent dietary and snacking choices mitigate these predispositions. Using a multi-omics approach, we investigated how almond snacking counters gut imbalances linked to adiposity and an average American Diet (AAD). Fifteen adults with overweight or obesity underwent a randomized, crossover-controlled feeding trial comparing a 4-week AAD with a similar isocaloric diet supplemented with 42.5 g/day of almonds (ALD). Almond snacking increases functional gut microbes, including Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, while suppressing opportunistic pathogens, thereby favorably modulating gut microecological niches through symbiotic and microbe-metabolite interactions. Moreover, ALD elevates health-beneficial monosaccharides and fosters bacterial consumption of amino acids, owing to enhanced microbial homeostasis. Additionally, ALD enhances metabolic homeostasis through a ketosis-like effect, reduces inflammation, and improves satiety-regulating hormones. The findings suggest that prudent dietary choices, such as almond snacking, promote gut microbial homeostasis while modulating immune metabolic state.},
}

@article {pmid40112507,
year = {2025},
author = {Tu, TH and Hsieh, HY and Meng, PJ and Chen, CC},
title = {Physiological responses of scleractinian coral to trace metal enrichment and thermal stress.},
journal = {Marine environmental research},
volume = {207},
number = {},
pages = {107085},
doi = {10.1016/j.marenvres.2025.107085},
pmid = {40112507},
issn = {1879-0291},
abstract = {Coral bleaching events are increasingly frequent due to global climate change and marine pollution. Trace metals, such as manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe), though toxic at high concentrations, are vital for coral physiology, supporting photosynthesis and antioxidation. This study investigates how thermal stress and trace metal exposure interact to influence the physiology of the scleractinian corals Turbinaria irregularis and Montipora mollis. Corals were exposed to Mn and Fe at varying concentrations under control (25 °C) and elevated (30 °C) temperatures. Mn enhanced photosynthetic efficiency, an increase of 1.7°% in M. mollis at 250 nM and 1.4°% in T. irregularis at 30 °C (p < 0.05). Fe improved photosynthesis by 1.8°% in M. mollis at 50 nM and growth rates by 2.1°% in T. irregularis at 25 °C (p < 0.05). Both metals mitigated bleaching, as seen in reduced relative gray intensity and increased symbiotic algal density, particularly at moderate concentrations. However, elevated temperatures suppressed growth and photosynthetic efficiency, with decreases up to 1.6°% in M. mollis (p < 0.01). These results highlight the pivotal role of trace metals in coral health and stress resilience, while emphasizing the importance of species-specific differences in trace metal uptake, thermal tolerance, and physiological responses. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the mechanisms and long-term impacts of these interactions in the face of ongoing climate change.},
}

@article {pmid40112150,
year = {2025},
author = {Nian, X and Wang, B and Holford, P and Beattie, GAC and Tan, S and Yuan, W and Cen, Y and He, Y and Zhang, S},
title = {Neuropeptide Ecdysis-Triggering Hormone and Its Receptor Mediate the Fecundity Improvement of 'Candidatus Liberibacter Asiaticus'-Infected Diaphorina citri Females and CLas Proliferation.},
journal = {Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e2412384},
doi = {10.1002/advs.202412384},
pmid = {40112150},
issn = {2198-3844},
support = {32202291//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32102193//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022SDZG07//Science and Technology Innovation for the 14th Five-Year Plan of Guangdong Province/ ; },
abstract = {The severe Asiatic form of huanglongbing (HLB), caused by "Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus" (CLas), threatens global citrus production via the citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri. Culturing challenges of CLas necessitate reducing D. citri populations for disease management. CLas boosts the fecundity of CLas-positive (CLas+) D. citri and fosters its own proliferation by modulating the insect host's juvenile hormone (JH), but the intricate endocrine regulatory mechanisms remain elusive. Here, it is reported that the D. citri ecdysis-triggering hormone (DcETH) and its receptor DcETHR play pivotal roles in the reciprocal benefits between CLas and D. citri within the ovaries, influencing energy metabolism and reproductive development in host insects; miR-210, negatively regulates DcETHR expression, contributing to this symbiotic interaction. CLas infection reduces 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) levels and stimulates DcETH release, elevating JH production via DcETHR, enhancing fecundity and CLas proliferation. Furthermore, circulating JH levels suppress 20E production in CLas+ ovaries. Collectively, the orchestrated functional interplay involving 20E, ETH, and JH increases energy metabolism and promotes the fecundity of CLas+ D. citri and CLas proliferation. These insights not only broaden the knowledge of how plant pathogens manipulate the reproductive behavior of insect hosts but also offer novel targets and strategies for combatting HLB and D. citri.},
}

@article {pmid40112074,
year = {2025},
author = {Shen, D and Micic, N and Venado, RE and Bjarnholt, N and Crocoll, C and Persson, DP and Samwald, S and Kopriva, S and Westhoff, P and Metzger, S and Neumann, U and Nakano, RT and Marín Arancibia, M and Andersen, TG},
title = {Apoplastic barriers are essential for nodule formation and nitrogen fixation in Lotus japonicus.},
journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)},
volume = {387},
number = {6740},
pages = {1281-1286},
doi = {10.1126/science.ado8680},
pmid = {40112074},
issn = {1095-9203},
mesh = {*Nitrogen Fixation ; *Lotus/genetics/metabolism/growth & development ; *Root Nodules, Plant/metabolism ; *Plant Root Nodulation ; *Symbiosis ; Mutation ; Plant Roots/metabolism/growth & development/genetics ; Plant Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; },
abstract = {Establishment of the apoplastic root barrier known as the Casparian strip occurs early in root development. In legumes, this area overlaps with nitrogen-fixing nodule formation, which raises the possibility that nodulation and barrier formation are connected. Nodules also contain Casparian strips, yet, in this case, their role is unknown. We established mutants with defective barriers in Lotus japonicus. This revealed that effective apoplastic blockage in the endodermis is important for root-to-shoot signals underlying nodulation. Our findings further revealed that in nodules, the genetic machinery for Casparian strip formation is shared with roots. Apoplastic blockage controls the metabolic source-sink status required for nitrogen fixation. This identifies Casparian strips as a model system to study spatially constrained symbiotic plant-microbe relationships.},
}

*Nitrogen Fixation
*Lotus/genetics/metabolism/growth & development
*Root Nodules, Plant/metabolism
*Plant Root Nodulation
*Symbiosis
Mutation
Plant Roots/metabolism/growth & development/genetics
Plant Proteins/metabolism/genetics

@article {pmid40111690,
year = {2025},
author = {He, J and Cheng, L},
title = {The Oral Microbiome: A Key Determinant of Oral Health.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1472},
number = {},
pages = {133-149},
pmid = {40111690},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; *Microbiota/physiology ; *Oral Health ; *Mouth/microbiology ; Dental Caries/microbiology ; Mouth Diseases/microbiology ; Periodontal Diseases/microbiology ; Bacteria/classification/genetics ; },
abstract = {As the second largest reservoir of human microbes, the oral cavity is colonized by millions of tiny creatures collectively named as oral microbiome. Species detected in human mouth are diverse, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa. Active bidirectional interaction exists between the oral microbiome and the host. Stresses from hosts shape the composition, distribution pattern, and the community behaviors of the oral microbiome, while any changes occurring on the oral microbiome may disrupt its symbiosis relationship with the host and ultimately lead to oral and systemic diseases that jeopardize the host's health. In this chapter, the latest understanding about the role of oral microbiome in common oral diseases, including dental caries, periodontal disease, oral candidiasis, and hyposalivation, is discussed.},
}

Humans
*Microbiota/physiology
*Oral Health
*Mouth/microbiology
Dental Caries/microbiology
Mouth Diseases/microbiology
Periodontal Diseases/microbiology
Bacteria/classification/genetics

@article {pmid40111686,
year = {2025},
author = {Colombo, APV and Lourenço, TGB and de Oliveira, AM and da Costa, ALA},
title = {Link Between Oral and Gut Microbiomes: The Oral-Gut Axis.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1472},
number = {},
pages = {71-87},
pmid = {40111686},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; *Mouth/microbiology ; *Dysbiosis/microbiology ; Animals ; Gastrointestinal Tract/microbiology ; },
abstract = {In the last decades, groundbreaking research on the human microbiome has changed our reductionist conception of the etiology and pathogenesis of several chronic diseases. As a result, we have come to appreciate the significance of a balanced microbiome in maintaining human health. In this context, the upper and lower gastrointestinal tracts (GITs) comprise the most abundant and diverse microbiotas of the human body. In addition to its diversity, functional redundancy, and temporal stability, a healthy GIT microbiome is characterized by its body site specificity. In fact, current evidence has indicated that the translocation of oral species to the gut environment through the oral-gut axis is increased in an array of illnesses, including chronic inflammatory and metabolic diseases, neurological disorders, and cancer. Oral pathogens have also been shown to promote gut dysbiosis and systemic inflammation in animal models. Yet, some level of overlapping between oral and gut microbiomes may occur without disruption of these microbial communities and loss of site specificity. The uniqueness of each host-microbiome entity may hinder our ability to define a "universal" normal GIT microbiome. Despite that, this chapter summarizes the predominant health-related taxa along the human GIT, as well as their role in the physiology and immunity of the digestive system. Some mechanisms that may lead to disturbances and relevant shifts in the oral and gut microbiomes of major inflammatory chronic diseases are also pointed out. Lastly, oral-fecal microbial signatures are presented as potential biomarkers for several oral and systemic disorders. The recognition of such symbiotic/dysbiotic microbial profiles may provide insights into the development of more accurate early diagnosis and therapeutic ecological approaches to restore the balance of the GIT microbiome.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
*Mouth/microbiology
*Dysbiosis/microbiology
Animals
Gastrointestinal Tract/microbiology

@article {pmid40111685,
year = {2025},
author = {Santonocito, S and Polizzi, A and Isola, G},
title = {The Impact of Diet and Nutrition on the Oral Microbiome.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1472},
number = {},
pages = {53-69},
pmid = {40111685},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mouth/microbiology ; *Microbiota/physiology ; *Diet/history ; *Oral Health/history ; Nutritional Status ; },
abstract = {At present, it is well known that oral health is essential for the well-being of the body as a whole, thanks to the increasing awareness of how various oral diseases, including periodontal disease, oral carcinomas, and other conditions, have a close connection with various systemic disorders. In recent decades, studies on the oral microbiome have increasingly emphasized how the balance between the host and the microbial species that coexist there is essential for oral health at all stages of life. However, there are many factors capable of interfering with that balance, and diet is precisely one of them. The real influence of diet on the oral microbiota, and consequently on oral health, has been much debated. In this context, the observation of two key periods in human history, the Neolithic and the Industrial Revolution, has proved to be diriment. The foods and processing techniques that emerged in these two historical periods, in association with changes in customs and habits, significantly altered the central constituents of the human diet, including macronutrient proportions, glycemic load, fatty acid composition, sodium and potassium levels, micronutrient levels, dietary pH, and fiber content taken in by human beings. The introduction of these foods into the daily human routine has been linked to a decline in oral health and an increase of several other diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatic diseases, many cancers, and obesity. The aim of this chapter is to update the current knowledge and further discuss the role of diet and nutrition on oral health.},
}

Humans
*Mouth/microbiology
*Microbiota/physiology
*Diet/history
*Oral Health/history
Nutritional Status

@article {pmid40111684,
year = {2025},
author = {de Barros Santos, HS and Pagnussatti, MEL and Arthur, RA},
title = {Symbiosis Between the Oral Microbiome and the Human Host: Microbial Homeostasis and Stability of the Host.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1472},
number = {},
pages = {31-51},
pmid = {40111684},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; *Symbiosis ; *Mouth/microbiology ; *Microbiota/physiology ; *Homeostasis ; *Host Microbial Interactions ; Bacteria/metabolism/genetics/classification ; Metagenomics/methods ; Oral Health ; },
abstract = {The oral cavity presents a highly diverse microbial composition. All the three domains of life, Bacteria, Eukarya, and Archaea, as well as viruses constitute the oral microbiome. Bacteria are among the most abundant microorganisms in the oral cavity, followed by viruses, fungi, and Archaea. These microorganisms tend to live in harmony with each other and with the host by preventing the colonization of oral sites by exogenous microorganisms. Interactions between the host and its microbiota are crucial for keeping ecological stability in the oral cavity and a condition compatible with oral health. This chapter focuses on describing the oral microbiota in healthy individuals based on both targeted and nontargeted genome sequencing methods and the functional activity played by those microorganisms based on metagenomic, metatranscriptomic, metaproteomic, and metabolomic analyses. Additionally, this chapter explores mutualistic and antagonistic microbe-microbe relationships. These interactions are mediated by complex mechanisms like cross-feeding networks, production of bacteriocins and secondary metabolites, synthesis of pH-buffering compounds, and the use of universal signaling molecules. At last, the role played by host-microbe interactions on colonization resistance and immune tolerance will help provide a better understanding about the harmonious and peaceful coexistence among host and microbial cells under oral health-related conditions.},
}

Humans
*Symbiosis
*Mouth/microbiology
*Microbiota/physiology
*Homeostasis
*Host Microbial Interactions
Bacteria/metabolism/genetics/classification
Metagenomics/methods
Oral Health

@article {pmid40111682,
year = {2025},
author = {Dame-Teixeira, N and Do, T and Deng, D},
title = {The Oral Microbiome and Us.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1472},
number = {},
pages = {3-9},
pmid = {40111682},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mouth/microbiology ; *Microbiota/physiology ; *Dysbiosis/microbiology ; Periodontitis/microbiology ; Animals ; Oral Health ; },
abstract = {Oral and systemic human health depend on the symbiotic relationship between the human host and its microbiome. As the second most diverse site of the human microbiome, the oral cavity is instrumental in symbiotic relationships, transforming nutrients and acting as the human body's initial barrier against pathogens. However, under certain conditions, the typically beneficial oral microbiome can become harmful. Systemic inflammatory diseases can send signals through the oral-gut axis, such as cytokines and host defensins, altering gene expression and, consequently, the composition of the oral microbiome. These changes can be responsible for causing oral diseases, such as periodontitis and candidiasis. Evidence of metabolic syndrome, including obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia, exacerbates oral microbiome dysbiosis. On the other hand, the oral microbiota can also influence systemic health. Inflammatory processes in the gingival structures caused by a dysbiotic oral microbiome are linked to worsen glycemic levels in diabetics, premature birth, and rheumatoid arthritis, among others. The idea for this book emerged from the need to explore the multifaceted nature of this relationship in its various dimensions. We discuss multispecies characteristics from an ecological perspective, focusing on how the host affects the microbiome and vice versa. Understanding how the oral microbiome influences human health will guide tailored strategies for disease prevention and treatment, which is discussed in the last section of the book. Looking ahead, predictive health and disease models will enable personalized therapies centered on restoring the healthy human microbiome.},
}

Humans
*Mouth/microbiology
*Microbiota/physiology
*Dysbiosis/microbiology
Periodontitis/microbiology
Animals
Oral Health

@article {pmid40110628,
year = {2025},
author = {Thies, AB and Paul, MR and Wangpraseurt, D and Tresguerres, M},
title = {Co-option of immune and digestive cellular machinery to support photosymbiosis in amoebocytes of the upside-down jellyfish Cassiopea xamachana.},
journal = {The Journal of experimental biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1242/jeb.249849},
pmid = {40110628},
issn = {1477-9145},
support = {2019271478//National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program/ ; //Achievement Rewards for College Scientists Foundation/ ; 2023360321//National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program/ ; 2316391//Division of Biological Infrastructure/ ; },
abstract = {The upside-down jellyfish, Cassiopea spp., host their algal symbionts inside a subset of amoebocytes, phagocytic cells that also play innate immune functions akin to macrophages from vertebrate animals. Amoebocyte precursors phagocytose algae from the jellyfish gut and store them inside intracellular compartments called symbiosomes. Subsequently, the precursors migrate to the mesoglea, differentiate into symbiotic amoebocytes, and roam throughout the jellyfish body where the algae remain photosynthetically active and supply the jellyfish host with a significant portion of their organic carbon needs. Here, we show that the amoebocyte symbiosome membrane contains V-H+-ATPase (VHA), the proton pump that acidifies phagosomes and lysosomes in all eukaryotes. Many symbiotic amoebocytes also abundantly express a carbonic anhydrase (CA), an enzyme that reversibly hydrates CO2 into H+ and HCO3-. Moreover, we found that the symbiosome lumen is pronouncedly acidic and that pharmacological inhibition of VHA or CA activities significantly decreases photosynthetic oxygen production in live jellyfish. These results point to a carbon concentrating mechanism (CCM) that co-opts VHA and CA from the phago-lysosomal machinery that ubiquitously mediates food digestion and innate immune responses. Analogous VHA-dependent CCMs have been previously described in reef-building corals, anemones, and giant clams; however, these other two cnidarians host their dinoflagellate algae inside gastrodermal cells -not in amoebocytes- and the clam hosts theirs within the gut lumen. Thus, our study identifies an example of convergent evolution at the cellular level that might broadly apply to invertebrate-microbe photosymbioses while also providing evolutionary links with intra- and extracellular food digestion and the immune system.},
}

@article {pmid40110165,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, C and Zhang, J and Li, Q and Zhang, Y and Zhang, S and Yu, Z and Li, J and Li, J},
title = {Horizontal transmission of symbiotic bacteria and host selective sweep in the giant clam Tridacna crocea.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {ycaf037},
pmid = {40110165},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Giant clams, with their significant ecological importance, depend on associated bacteria for their health and development, yet the transmission modes and succession of community dynamics of these bacteria remain poorly understood. This study employed 16S rRNA gene sequencing and microscopy to investigate the transmission and community dynamics of symbiotic bacteria in the giant clam Tridacna crocea during early developmental stages (fertilized eggs, blastocyst, D-larvae, and pediveliger larvae). Fluorescence in situ hybridization and transmission electron microscopy did not detect internal symbiotic bacteria in fertilized eggs and adult gonad gametes, but scanning electron microscopy revealed microbial structures on egg surface microvilli, suggesting their role as microbial carriers. 16S rRNA sequencing confirmed microbial presence in fertilized eggs, indicating bacterial acquisition via external vertical transmission (adherence to microvilli) or horizontal transmission. Given the lack of internalized bacteria in reproductive organs, we prefer to classify the symbiotic bacteria acquisition as horizontal transmission. Microbial community analysis showed that T. crocea acquired a significant portion of its microbiome from seawater throughout its development. Before reaching the pediveliger stage, the bacterial community composition closely resembled that of the surrounding seawater, primarily featuring the family Rhodobacteraceae. As T. crocea matured, the host's selective pressure increased (e.g. deterministic assembly), which simplified the microbial community and reduced diversity. During the pediveliger stage, the genus Endozoicomonas became dominant, forming a large proportion of the bacterial community within the gonads. This highlights the ecological significance of host-microbe interactions in maintaining biodiversity and driving ecosystem stability through dynamic community assembly processes.},
}

@article {pmid40108281,
year = {2025},
author = {Dong, J and Dai, W and Xu, J and Zhang, H and Li, Y and Xie, F},
title = {Impact and elastic modulus of coal mining on terrestrial ecosystems.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {9454},
pmid = {40108281},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {CSC202306420029//China Scholarship Council/ ; Lumeidike (2022) No.14//Key Research Projects of Shandong Bureau of Coal Geology/ ; },
abstract = {The energy consumption structure is gradually evolving into a "diversified energy structure" against the backdrop of the global implementation of energy-saving and low-carbon policies. Coal, as the main energy source in China, is difficult to change in the short term, given the characteristics of China's energy and resource endowments, as well as the actual social and economic development at the present stage. Nevertheless, coal mining inevitably leads to a range of ecological issues. Identifying the impact of coal mining on terrestrial ecosystems and adopting resilient recovery measures are crucial prerequisites for advancing green coal mining efforts and attaining carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals. Using China's open-pit coal mining as a case study: (1) the research examines the fundamental attributes and evolving patterns of spatial distribution among these mines within the country. Furthermore, it delineates the life cycle stages and distinctive features of the five principal open-pit coal mines. The life cycle of a coal mining area is divided into four distinct development phases: the initial phase, the accelerated phase, the stable phase, and the declining phase. The spatial relationship between the life cycle stages of coal mining and ecosystem succession is elucidated by examining the evolutionary types of ecosystems within coal mine area. In the accelerated and stable development phase, the adverse effects of coal mining on the ecosystem are in a long-term increasing trend, causing the key elements of the ecosystem to gradually surpass their threshold values. The ecosystem is out of balance, severely damaged, and gradually undergoing degradation or extreme degradation. The types of ecological succession in coal mining areas can be categorized as follows: terrestrial succession leading to a new terrestrial ecosystem, terrestrial to aquatic ecosystem transitions, or the development of an amphibious symbiotic ecosystem. (2) The research quantitatively assessed the impact of surface coal mining on terrestrial ecosystems by utilizing remote sensing data in conjunction with coal production information. In 2022, the affected areas of the five major open-pit coal mines due to coal mining activities amounted to approximately 0.02% of China's total land area. Meanwhile, the nationwide affected areas of all open-pit coal mines combined reached to approximately 0.13% of China's land area. Open-pit coal mining activities have a significant impact on the surface. (3) By incorporating the ecological resilience theory, we establish a model for the ecosystem's elastic modulus in coal mining areas, taking into account landscape diversity, vegetation coverage, land type, and climate factors, which are based on the concepts of elastic strength and elastic limit. A conceptual model for recognizing ecological thresholds in coal mining areas is developed by incorporating the comprehensive integrity index of the ecosystem. The comprehensive integrity of the ecosystem within a coal mining area undergoes significant alterations as it crosses three distinct ecological thresholds: the elastic point, the yield point, and the mutational point. There should be a corresponding constant (or constant interval) at the three ecological thresholds of ecosystem resilience, the elastic point, the yield point, and the mutational point, which is closely related to the scale of mining operations, mining technology, and the service life in coal mining areas. The established models for identifying ecological thresholds and the resilience modulus degree serve as both theoretical references and practical bases for managing the progress and trends of ecosystem changes during coal resource extraction, making ecological restoration in coal mine areas more target-oriented and specific.},
}

@article {pmid40107962,
year = {2025},
author = {Dourmap, C and Fustec, J and Naudin, C and Carton, N and Tcherkez, G},
title = {White lupin: improving legume-based protein production via intercropping.},
journal = {Journal of experimental botany},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jxb/eraf127},
pmid = {40107962},
issn = {1460-2431},
abstract = {Climate change, increased needs for food, industry and mitigation of environmental impacts are currently driving changes in agricultural practices. Moreover, increasing demand for plant-based protein in substitution to animal protein or to reduce soybean importations is driving cultivation of high-protein crops. Legumes are such crops that play a critical role in this process. Amongst them, white lupin is a so-called orphan species, i.e. associated with relatively little cultivated surface area worldwide and limited agronomic knowledge. Lupin is nevertheless very promising since seeds contain a high content of storage proteins with interesting nutritional properties. Also, it has low fertilisation requirements since it forms root clusters allowing efficient phosphorus (P) acquisition, along with symbiotic nitrogen (N) fixation by nodules. Nevertheless, lupin cultivation faces important challenges such as yield variability, slow vegetative development or susceptibility to weeds diseases and water stress, for example. Lupin has an enormous potential for resource-saving practices such as intercropping with non-legumes, because of niche complementarity for N acquisition and facilitation of P transfer to the associated species, which can in turn mitigate weeds and pests, and ensure yield stability. To overcome several bottlenecks associated with lupin cultivation (e.g. nutrient utilisation, drought resistance or limiting the impact of weeds), genetic, metabolic, and agronomic research is required in order to define ideotypes that are particularly well-fitted to sustainable agricultural practices such as intercropping, with optimal protein yield. This is one of the purposes of the trans-disciplinary research programme PULSAR, funded by France 2030, which aims to unlock several bottlenecks in lupin utilisation in agronomy.},
}

@article {pmid40107953,
year = {2025},
author = {Gould, AL and Osland, HK},
title = {Strain-level variation in microbial symbiosis: lessons from the Siphamia-Photobacterium mandapamensis system.},
journal = {Trends in microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tim.2025.02.010},
pmid = {40107953},
issn = {1878-4380},
abstract = {The Siphamia-Photobacterium mandapamensis symbiosis is a binary, gut-associated mutualism that serves as a powerful model for studying strain-level variation in host-microbe interactions. Its combination of high species-level specificity and significant strain diversity makes it ideal for exploring host selectivity, microbial diversity, and the broader mechanisms driving strain-level dynamics in microbial symbioses.},
}

@article {pmid40107097,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, J and Zhang, Z and Shen, N and Yu, H and Yu, G and Qi, J and Liu, R and Hu, C and Qu, J},
title = {Bipartite trophic levels cannot resist the interference of microplastics: A case study of submerged macrophytes and snail.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {491},
number = {},
pages = {137898},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.137898},
pmid = {40107097},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Some studies frequently focus on the toxic effects of compound pollution formed by microplastics and other pollutants on individual organisms, but it is still unclear how multi-trophic level organisms in compound communities resist the stress of microplastics. Thus, this research used a dose-response experiment (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1 mg L[-1]) to illustrate the influences that microplastics might have on two symbiotic freshwater organisms Vallisneria natans and Sinotaia quadrata. The results showed the reduction of V. natans biomass in 0.5 and 1 mg L[-1] groups (28-38 %), and disturbances on the photosynthetic system, reduced the chlorophyll content (15-85 %) and maximum quantum yields (10-31 %). In the case of S. quadrata, which subsisted by scraping leaf biofilms, there was a disruption in the functioning of the antioxidant system. Concurrently, the activities of digestive and neurotransmitter enzymes were affected, potentially leading to detrimental impacts on the organism's essential physiological processes. The introduction of microplastics significantly enhanced the relative abundance of specific microbial taxa, such as Proteobacteria within the biofilm of V. natans leaves and chloroflexi in the rhizosphere, thereby altering the microbial community assembly process. This means the potential ecological functions with microbes as the carrier was influenced. These results indicated that microplastic in aquatic environments can impact the metabolism, autotrophic, and heterotrophic behavior of double-end trophic organisms through symbiotic activities. Therefore, our study reveals how polystyrene microplastics affect the growth of submerged aquatic plants and snails, and from the perspective of community integrity and health, the introduction of these pollutants into freshwater environments may cause disruptive effects.},
}

@article {pmid40106994,
year = {2025},
author = {Lakshmikandan, M and Li, M},
title = {Advancements and hurdles in symbiotic microalgal co-cultivation strategies for wastewater treatment.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {380},
number = {},
pages = {125018},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125018},
pmid = {40106994},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Microalgae offer significant potential in various industrial applications, such as biofuel production and wastewater treatment, but the economic barriers to their cultivation and harvesting have been a major obstacle. However, a promising strategy involving co-cultivating microalgae in wastewater treatment could overcome the limitations of monocultivation and open the possibility for increased integration of microalgae into various industrial processes. This symbiotic relationship between microalgae and other microbes can enhance nutrient removal efficiency, increase value-added bioproduct production, promote carbon capture, and decrease energy consumption. However, unresolved challenges, such as the competition between microalgae and other microbes within the wastewater treatment system, may result in imbalances and reduced efficiency. The complexity of managing multiple microbes in a co-cultivation system poses difficulties in achieving stability and consistency in bioproduct production. In response to these challenges, strategies such as optimizing nutrient ratios, manipulating environmental conditions, understanding the dynamics of microbial relationships, and employing genetic modification to enhance the metabolic capabilities of microalgae and improve their competitiveness are critical in transitioning to a more sustainable path. Hence, this review will provide an in-depth analysis of recent advancements in symbiotic microalgal co-cultivation for applications in wastewater treatment and CO2 utilization, as well as discuss approaches for improving microalgal strains through genetic modification. Furthermore, the review will explore the use of efficient bioreactors, advanced control systems, and advancements in biorefinery processes.},
}

@article {pmid40106558,
year = {2025},
author = {Maurya, AK and Kröninger, L and Ehret, G and Bäumers, M and Marson, M and Scheu, S and Nowack, ECM},
title = {A nucleus-encoded dynamin-like protein controls endosymbiont division in the trypanosomatid Angomonas deanei.},
journal = {Science advances},
volume = {11},
number = {12},
pages = {eadp8518},
doi = {10.1126/sciadv.adp8518},
pmid = {40106558},
issn = {2375-2548},
mesh = {*Symbiosis ; *Dynamins/metabolism/genetics ; *Trypanosomatina/genetics/metabolism/microbiology ; Protozoan Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Cell Nucleus/metabolism ; Cell Division ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Cell Cycle/genetics ; },
abstract = {Angomonas deanei is a trypanosomatid of the Strigomonadinae. All members of this subfamily contain a single β-proteobacterial endosymbiont. Intriguingly, cell cycles of host and endosymbiont are synchronized. The molecular mechanisms underlying this notable level of integration are unknown. Previously, we identified a nucleus-encoded dynamin-like protein, called ETP9, that localizes at the endosymbiont division site of A. deanei. Here, we found by comparative genomics that endosymbionts throughout the Strigomonadinae lost the capacity to autonomously form a division septum. We describe the cell cycle-dependent subcellular localization of ETP9 that follows accumulation of the bacterium-encoded division protein FtsZ at the endosymbiont division site. Furthermore, we found that ETP9 is essential in symbiotic but dispensable in aposymbiotic A. deanei that lost the endosymbiont. In the symbiotic strain, ETP9 knockdowns resulted in filamentous, division-impaired endosymbionts. Our work unveiled that in A. deanei an endosymbiont division machinery of dual genetic origin evolved in which a neo-functionalized host protein compensates for losses of endosymbiont division genes.},
}

*Symbiosis
*Dynamins/metabolism/genetics
*Trypanosomatina/genetics/metabolism/microbiology
Protozoan Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Cell Nucleus/metabolism
Cell Division
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Cell Cycle/genetics