@article {pmid40263612,
year = {2025},
author = {Shakiba, M and Tuveson, DA},
title = {Macrophages and fibroblasts as regulators of the immune response in pancreatic cancer.},
journal = {Nature immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40263612},
issn = {1529-2916},
support = {50340801//Lustgarten Foundation (Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research)/ ; U01CA224013//U.S. Department of Health & Human Services | NIH | National Cancer Institute (NCI)/ ; P30CA045508//U.S. Department of Health & Human Services | NIH | National Cancer Institute (NCI)/ ; R01CA2419002//U.S. Department of Health & Human Services | NIH | NCI | Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute (National Cancer Institute Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics)/ ; HT9425-24-1-0091//U.S. Department of Defense (United States Department of Defense)/ ; },
abstract = {Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the few cancers that has yet to benefit from immunotherapies. This is primarily a result of its characteristic 'cold' tumor microenvironment composed of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a dense network of extracellular matrix and several immune cell types, the most abundant of which are the tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Advances in single-cell and spatial technologies have elucidated the vast functional heterogeneity of CAFs and TAMs, their symbiotic relationship and their cooperative role in the tumor microenvironment. In this Review, we provide an overview of the heterogeneity of CAFs and TAMs, how they establish an immunosuppressive microenvironment and their collaboration in the remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Finally, we examine why the impact of immunotherapy in PDAC has been limited and how a detailed molecular and spatial understanding of the combined role of CAFs and TAMs is paramount to the design of effective therapies.},
}

@article {pmid40263549,
year = {2025},
author = {Nandigam, S and Mahendrakar, MD and Srungarapu, R and Chand, U and Gopalakrishnan, S and Thati, S and Vatluri, SR and Vadlamudi, S and Vemula, A and Kudapa, H and Samineni, S},
title = {Rapid generation advancement of RIL population and assessing the impact of Rhizobium nodulation on crop yields in Chickpea.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {13945},
pmid = {40263549},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {CRP-GLDC//Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centers/ ; },
mesh = {*Cicer/genetics/microbiology/growth & development ; Genotype ; *Plant Root Nodulation/genetics ; *Rhizobium/physiology ; Symbiosis ; Seeds/growth & development/genetics ; *Crops, Agricultural/growth & development/genetics/microbiology ; Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/genetics ; Nitrogen Fixation ; },
abstract = {Chickpea, a widely cultivated legume, actively fix atmospheric nitrogen in root nodules through a symbiotic relationship with rhizobia bacteria. A recombinant inbred line (RIL) population, progressing from F2 to F7 generations, was developed in a short-period of 18 months using the Rapid Generation Advancement (RGA) protocol. The F7 RILs were evaluated during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 crop seasons under typical field conditions to quantify the effects of nodulation on seed yield (SY) and its associated traits. The analysis of variance revealed a highly significant difference (P < 0.01) among genotypes for seed yield and other agronomic traits, with no significant seasonal effect. In the pooled analysis, nodulating genotypes (NG) exhibited a substantial increase (P < 0.01) in SY (62.55%), 100-seed weight (SW100; 12.21%), harvest index (HI; 6.40%), number of pods per plant (NPPP; 39.55%), and number of seeds per plant (NSPP; 44.37%) compared to non-nodulating genotypes (NNG). Both NG and NNG exhibited a significant (P < 0.01) positive correlation between SY and NPPP (r = 0.64 and 0.63), NSPP (r = 0.66 and 0.61), HI (r = 0.27), and number of primary branches per plant (PBr) (r = 0.31), respectively. The top-performing genotypes for yield and related traits were predominantly nodulating. Genotype-trait bi-plot analysis identified nine nodulating genotypes as the most adaptable across the two seasons-six for SY, plant height, SW100, and three for days to first flowering and maturity. These findings underscore the critical role of nodulation in maximizing chickpea yields and the significant yield penalties associated with non-nodulation. To boost chickpea production, future breeding efforts should focus on developing genotypes with high compatibility with rhizobium strains.},
}

*Cicer/genetics/microbiology/growth & development
Genotype
*Plant Root Nodulation/genetics
*Rhizobium/physiology
Symbiosis
Seeds/growth & development/genetics
*Crops, Agricultural/growth & development/genetics/microbiology
Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/genetics
Nitrogen Fixation

@article {pmid40262644,
year = {2025},
author = {Püffel, F and Kang, V and Yap, M and Shojaeifard, M and Bacca, M and Labonte, D},
title = {Behavioural biomechanics: leaf-cutter ant cutting behaviour depends on leaf edge geometry.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {292},
number = {2045},
pages = {20242926},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2024.2926},
pmid = {40262644},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//H2020 European Research Council/ ; //Human Frontier Science Program/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Ants/physiology ; *Plant Leaves/anatomy & histology ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; *Feeding Behavior ; *Behavior, Animal ; },
abstract = {Leaf-cutter ants cut fresh leaves to grow a symbiotic fungus as crop. During cutting, one mandible is typically anchored onto the leaf lamina while the other slices through it like a knife. When initiating cuts into the leaf edge, however, foragers sometimes deviate from this behaviour and instead use their mandibles symmetrically, akin to scissors. In vivo behavioural assays revealed that the preference for either of the two cutting strategies depended on leaf edge geometry and differed between natural leaf margins that were straight or serrated with notch-like folds: leaf-cutter ants displayed a strong preference for scissor-cutting when leaf edges were straight or had wide notches. This preference, however, reversed in favour of knife-cutting when notches were narrow. To investigate whether this behavioural difference had a mechanical origin, we mimicked knife-cutting in ex vivo cutting experiments: for wide notches, all but the sharpest mandibles failed to initiate cuts, or only did so at large forces, caused by substantial leaf buckling and bending. This increased force demand would substantially limit the ability of foragers to cut leaves, and so reduce the colony's access to food sources. Scissor-cutting may thus be an adaptation to the mechanical difficulties associated with bending and buckling of thin leaves.},
}

Animals
*Ants/physiology
*Plant Leaves/anatomy & histology
Biomechanical Phenomena
*Feeding Behavior
*Behavior, Animal

@article {pmid40262635,
year = {2025},
author = {Haro, R and Lee, R and Slamovits, CH},
title = {Unveiling the functional nature of retrogenes in dinoflagellates.},
journal = {Open biology},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {240221},
doi = {10.1098/rsob.240221},
pmid = {40262635},
issn = {2046-2441},
support = {//the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, NSERC/ ; },
mesh = {*Dinoflagellida/genetics ; *Retroelements ; Transcriptome ; Gene Ontology ; Phylogeny ; Molecular Sequence Annotation ; Symbiosis ; },
abstract = {Retroposition is a gene duplication mechanism that uses RNA molecules as intermediaries to generate new gene copies. Dinoflagellates are proposed as an ideal model for exploring this process due to the tagging of retrogenes with DNA-encoded remnants of the dinoflagellate-specific splice-leader motif at their 5' end. We conducted a comprehensive search for retrogenes in dinoflagellate transcriptomes to uncover their functional nature and the processes underlying their redundancy. We obtained a high-confidence set of hypothetical functional retrogenes widespread through the dinoflagellate lineage. Through annotations and gene ontology enrichment analysis, we found that the functional diversity of retrogenes reflects the most prevalent and active processes during stress periods, particularly those involving post-translational modifications and cell signalling pathways. Additionally, the significant presence of retrogenes linked to specific biological processes involved in symbiosis and toxin production underscores the role of retrogenes in adaptation. The expression profile and codon composition similar to protein-coding genes confirm the operational status of retrogenes and strengthen the idea that retrogenes recapitulate parental gene expression and function. This study provides new evidence supporting widespread gene retroposition across dinoflagellates and highlights the functional link of retrogenes with the core activity of the cell.},
}

*Dinoflagellida/genetics
*Retroelements
Transcriptome
Gene Ontology
Phylogeny
Molecular Sequence Annotation
Symbiosis

@article {pmid40262536,
year = {2025},
author = {Angeley, MNJ and Perlman, SJ},
title = {Symbiosis: A novel relationship cradled in venom.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {35},
number = {8},
pages = {R293-R295},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.016},
pmid = {40262536},
issn = {1879-0445},
mesh = {Animals ; *Wasps/physiology/microbiology/growth & development ; *Symbiosis ; Larva/microbiology/physiology/growth & development ; *Wasp Venoms/metabolism ; *Enterobacteriaceae/physiology ; },
abstract = {Spalangia wasps have evolved a new association with Sodalis bacteria, transmitting them in an unusual way. They inject them into a host, along with their venom and an egg; the wasp larva then ingests them while feeding on host tissue.},
}

Animals
*Wasps/physiology/microbiology/growth & development
*Symbiosis
Larva/microbiology/physiology/growth & development
*Wasp Venoms/metabolism
*Enterobacteriaceae/physiology

@article {pmid40261620,
year = {2025},
author = {Do, TQ and Palombo, EA and Zaferanloo, B},
title = {Applying Zymography Methods for the Detection of Enzymes from Fungal Endophytes.},
journal = {Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)},
volume = {2918},
number = {},
pages = {153-162},
pmid = {40261620},
issn = {1940-6029},
mesh = {*Endophytes/enzymology ; *Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel/methods ; *Fungi/enzymology ; *Enzyme Assays/methods ; *Fungal Proteins/metabolism/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {This chapter presents a method for the production and characterization of enzymes derived from fungal endophytes, which are symbiotic organisms residing within plants. Enzyme production is induced by cultivating the fungi on optimized growth media, and the resulting protein levels are monitored using the Bradford assay over a defined duration. Following protein depletion, the media is purified, and distinct enzymes are characterized using substrate-specific zymography employing sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels (SDS-PAGE) and appropriate buffers. Our findings underscore the efficacy of zymography in swiftly characterizing enzymes derived from fungal endophytes. This method holds significant promise for various biotechnological and industrial applications including, but not limited to, biofuel production and pharmaceuticals.},
}

*Endophytes/enzymology
*Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel/methods
*Fungi/enzymology
*Enzyme Assays/methods
*Fungal Proteins/metabolism/isolation & purification

@article {pmid40261617,
year = {2025},
author = {Dellagnola, FA and Godoy, MS and Vega, IA},
title = {Zymography Techniques for the Profiling of Digestive Protease in a Freshwater Invertebrate Model.},
journal = {Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)},
volume = {2918},
number = {},
pages = {107-123},
pmid = {40261617},
issn = {1940-6029},
mesh = {Animals ; *Peptide Hydrolases/metabolism/chemistry/isolation & purification ; *Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel/methods ; Fresh Water ; *Enzyme Assays/methods ; *Snails/enzymology ; Digestive System/enzymology ; },
abstract = {Zymography is a sensitive and specific technique that enables the detection and characterization of proteases of low abundance. Here, we describe two zymographic techniques, in-gel and in situ zymography, to discover proteases (20-120 kDa) along the gut of apple snails. Proteases of different molecular weights are separated by electrophoresis in gelatin copolymerized sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gels and then enzymatic activities revealed by Coomassie Blue negative staining. Protease families can be identified in the presence of specific inhibitors. We also use in situ zymography for localizing proteases in intracellular symbiotic corpuscles that habit in the digestive gland of the gastropod Pomacea canaliculata. Different spatial-temporal scenarios of protease synthesis, secretion, and hydrolysis of dietary proteins may be identified by a combination of in-gel and in situ zymography.},
}

Animals
*Peptide Hydrolases/metabolism/chemistry/isolation & purification
*Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel/methods
Fresh Water
*Enzyme Assays/methods
*Snails/enzymology
Digestive System/enzymology

@article {pmid40261263,
year = {2025},
author = {Hazel, CM and Panaccione, DG},
title = {A new species of Periglandula symbiotic with the morning glory Ipomoea tricolor.},
journal = {Mycologia},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/00275514.2025.2483634},
pmid = {40261263},
issn = {1557-2536},
abstract = {Many morning glories (family Convolvulaceae) contain ergot alkaloids-important bioactive compounds produced exclusively by fungi. The ergot alkaloids of the few investigated morning glories are associated with the presence of a symbiotic Clavicipitaceous fungus. The genus Periglandula (Clavicipitaceae) was erected recently for two epibiotic species of morning glory symbionts. Biochemical and limited sequence data indicate that Ipomoea tricolor, a commonly cultivated morning glory from Mexico, contains a Periglandula species, but no signs of the fungus have ever been detected. Our goal was to isolate and describe this fungus, which we hypothesize represents a new species. Observation of fungal hyphae in evacuated seed coats of I. tricolor and subsequent transfer onto malt extract agar resulted in cultures of the symbiont isolated from the plant. The fungus grew slowly as white hyphae and sometimes aggregated into synnema-like structures, both of which lacked spores. We isolated sufficient DNA to sequence the genome with Illumina technology. Phylogenetic analyses based on multiple genes indicated that the symbiont of I. tricolor was distinct from, but related to, the two described species of Periglandula previously observed in other species of morning glories. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), the fungus was quantified most abundantly in hypocotyls of I. tricolor, with lesser quantities in stems, cotyledons, and leaves. The fungus was not detected in roots, although ergot alkaloids were abundant in all tissues including roots. We conclude that the symbiotic fungus of I. tricolor is a distinct species of Periglandula and propose the name Periglandula clandestina, sp. nov.},
}

@article {pmid40260431,
year = {2025},
author = {Istanbuli, T and Alsamman, AM and Al-Shamaa, K and Abu Assar, A and Adlan, M and Kumar, T and Tawkaz, S and Hamwieh, A},
title = {Selection of high nitrogen fixation chickpea genotypes under drought stress conditions using multi-environment analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1490080},
pmid = {40260431},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Chickpea (*Cicer arietinum* L.) is an important pulse crop mainly grown in marginal lands around the world. Drought stress highly impacts symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) in chickpeas, which can limit productivity. Therefore, selecting high nitrogen fixation chickpea genotypes that can tolerate water stress is important for breeding programs.

METHODS: A total of 204 chickpea genotypes were assessed in eight different environments across Lebanon during the 2016 and 2017 growing seasons, under both rainfed and irrigated conditions. The study employed an Alpha Lattice design with two replications at two distinct locations. Data were collected for yield and nodule characteristics, then subjected to AMMI and GGE biplot analysis.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The AMMI analysis indicated that genotype (G), environments (E), and genotype × environment interaction (GEI) had significant effects on grain yield (P<0.001), highlighting the presence of genetic variation and the potential for selecting stable genotypes. The findings revealed that the environmental effect predominantly influenced chickpea grain yield, with GEI following, and G having the least impact. Environment explained 34.5% of the total (G + E + GE) variation, whereas G and GEI captured 16.4% and 24.3%, respectively. According to grain yield (GY), genotype IG70399 demonstrated the highest performance across all environments, while genotype IG8256 displayed the most consistent performance across different conditions. In a rainfed environment, genotype IG73394 had higher nodulation, while IG70384 and IG70410 had higher nodulation biomass (NB) under an irrigated environment. The NB for ten highly tolerant genotypes increased by 24% compared to the two susceptible genotypes under drought stress conditions, while the NB for these ten genotypes increased by 14.6% compared to all studied genotypes.},
}

@article {pmid40259211,
year = {2025},
author = {Maleki, N and Ghorbani, A and Rostami, M and Maina, S},
title = {Elucidating long non-coding RNA networks in tomato plants in response to Funneliformis mosseae colonization and cucumber mosaic virus infection.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {495},
pmid = {40259211},
issn = {1471-2229},
mesh = {*Solanum lycopersicum/genetics/microbiology/virology ; *RNA, Long Noncoding/genetics/metabolism ; *Cucumovirus/physiology ; *Plant Diseases/virology/microbiology/genetics ; RNA, Plant/genetics/metabolism ; MicroRNAs/genetics ; Symbiosis ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; },
abstract = {Tomato plants face biotic challenges like infections by cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), a member of the Cucumovirus genus in the Bromoviridae family, as well as beneficial interactions, such as colonization by the symbiotic fungus Funneliformis mosseae, which belongs to the Glomeraceae family. While this symbiosis boosts nutrient uptake and stress tolerance, viral infections can reduce yield and quality. Understanding how tomatoes manage these interactions is vital for enhancing crop productivity. To explore the molecular mechanisms behind these interactions, this study focuses on long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which play crucial roles in gene regulation, stress response, and plant metabolic pathways. Tomato RNA-seq data were analyzed to identify lncRNAs and their interactions with microRNAs (miRNAs) through de novo assembly, mapping, expression analysis, and localization prediction. In this study, 3210 lncRNAs were identified from 12 SRA datasets of tomato plants, including control, CMV-infected, F. mosseae-colonized, and co-infected samples. Among these, 3194 were novel lncRNAs and 16 were conserved. Expression analysis revealed significant differential expression patterns across treatments. Pathway analysis indicated that these lncRNAs are involved in key metabolic processes, such as carbon metabolism, amino acid biosynthesis, and secondary metabolite production, suggesting their role in enhancing disease resistance. Furthermore, we predicted interactions between identified lncRNAs and miRNAs, including miR160a, miR166a/b, miR167a, miR171a/b/c, miR1917, miR1918, and miR395a/b, thereby highlighting potential regulatory networks that could modulate stress responses. The subcellular localization of identified lncRNAs revealed a predominance in the cytoplasm, implying their involvement in post-transcriptional regulation. This study accentuates the significance of lncRNAs in tomato plant defense mechanisms and provides a foundation for future research focused on enriching resistance to viral infections and boosting stress resilience.},
}

*Solanum lycopersicum/genetics/microbiology/virology
*RNA, Long Noncoding/genetics/metabolism
*Cucumovirus/physiology
*Plant Diseases/virology/microbiology/genetics
RNA, Plant/genetics/metabolism
MicroRNAs/genetics
Symbiosis
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant

@article {pmid40258316,
year = {2025},
author = {Todeschini, V and Anastasia, F and Nalin, EC and Cesaro, P and Massa, N and Bona, E and Sampò, S and Berta, G and Barbato, R and Lingua, G},
title = {Effects of P nutrition on growth and photosynthetic activity of tomato plants inoculated or not with AM fungi.},
journal = {Plant physiology and biochemistry : PPB},
volume = {224},
number = {},
pages = {109923},
doi = {10.1016/j.plaphy.2025.109923},
pmid = {40258316},
issn = {1873-2690},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi colonize plant roots, improving mineral nutrition and promoting photosynthesis. Phosphorus (P) has a key role in plant physiology, affecting the photosynthetic process and being involved in sugar/carbon metabolism. The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis and P nutrition on the growth parameters and photosynthetic activity of tomato plants grown in controlled conditions. Plants were maintained in a growth chamber for 50 days and watered three times a week with a Long Ashton nutrient solution at three different P levels (32, 96 and 288 μM, respectively). At harvest, mycorrhizal colonization, biomass production, P and photosynthetic pigment concentrations were measured. Moreover, the photosynthetic efficiency relating to the activity of the two photosystems and the biochemical analysis of proteins extracted from thylakoid membranes were also performed. Results showed that inoculation did not affect growth parameters. AM symbiosis was strongly inhibited at the highest P level. Plant biomass production was positively correlated with increasing level of P. The analysis of chlorophyll fluorescence in inoculated plants highlighted that Y(I), Y(II), ETR(I), ETR(II) varied proportionally to the AM colonization and inversely proportionally to the P supply, whether this effect on NPQ and ETR occurs by a modulation of the xanthophyll cycle, remains to be established.},
}

@article {pmid40256278,
year = {2025},
author = {Kolaksazov, M and Vasileva, I and Stoycheva, I},
title = {Physiological and biochemical response of mixed lupine and barley cultures under changing environmental conditions during spring.},
journal = {Physiology and molecular biology of plants : an international journal of functional plant biology},
volume = {31},
number = {3},
pages = {493-505},
pmid = {40256278},
issn = {0971-5894},
abstract = {Mixed cultivation of grass-legume forage crops, such as lupine (Lupinus albus L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), offers significant advantages in terms of nitrogen utilization, stress resistance and a balanced diet for ruminants. This study explored the symbiotic effects of these crops on photosynthesis and stress tolerance via measuring key physiological and biochemical parameters. Measurements were performed on the photosynthetic activity, chlorophyll and carotenoid content, glycolate oxidase activity, antioxidant capacity, and total phenolic content. The varying temperatures during May, allowed the effects of mixed cultivation on the response to chilling to be analyzed. Notably, barley monoculture was the most affected by the decreased temperatures. In general, mixed culture showed mitigation of the effects from chilling, as compared with both lupine and barley monocultures alone. These results suggest an adaptive synergy between lupine and barley, highlighting the potential advantages of mixed cultivation for improving stress tolerance and overall crop performance.},
}

@article {pmid40256268,
year = {2025},
author = {Tian, Y and Zhang, L and Wang, Z and He, Z and Shu, L},
title = {Light Affects Host-Symbiont Dynamics in the Non-Photosynthetic Social Amoeba Symbiosis.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {e71320},
pmid = {40256268},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Light significantly influences phototactic behaviors and host-bacterial interactions of photosynthetic microorganisms such as algae. The non-photosynthetic slime mound amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum as the host shows phototaxis in the multicellular slugs, but the impact of light on amoeba-bacteria interactions remains unclear. Here we utilized two different clades of symbiotic Paraburkholderia species, namely Paraburkholderia agricolaris B1QS70 and Paraburkholderia hayleyella B2QS11, to investigate the light-induced symbiosis between the host amoebae and symbiotic bacteria. Our findings propose two light-induced symbiotic types (type I and type II termed from this study) likely due to amoebae metabolites or bacterial infection efficiency. The type I symbiosis reveals increased symbiotic B1QS70 amount in amoebae QS9 under light, while stable amounts persist in amoebae QS11 and QS70, both of which are native hosts of symbiotic Paraburkholderia species. Furthermore, the transcriptomics analysis suggests that certain upregulated genes, such as lectin genes, may play crucial roles in inducing the symbiosis of P. agricolaris B1QS70 in amoebae QS9 and QS70 under light stimulation. Conversely, the type II symbiosis enhances interactions between P. hayleyella B2QS11 and three individual amoebae clones (QS9, QS11, or QS70) in dark conditions due to the strong infection capability and high growth rates of B2QS11. Transcriptomic data show that a cluster of heat shock genes is upregulated in amoebae QS9 with B2QS11 under dark, indicating an immune response to the non-native host QS9, rather than that of in QS11 as the native host of B2QS11. Blue-light sensors like Cryptochrome/DNA photolyase in Paraburkholderia species might regulate the growth rate by light stimulation. These findings highlight light-regulated symbiosis between amoebae and two distinct Paraburkholderia species, indicating that light may be crucial for regulating amoebae-symbionts dynamics.},
}

@article {pmid40255466,
year = {2025},
author = {Mfangnia, CNT and Tonnang, HEZ and Tsanou, B and Keith Herren, J},
title = {An eco-epidemiological model for malaria with Microsporidia MB as bio-control agent.},
journal = {Modeling earth systems and environment},
volume = {11},
number = {3},
pages = {221},
pmid = {40255466},
issn = {2363-6203},
abstract = {Microsporidia MB is an endosymbiont which naturally infects Anopheles mosquitoes. Due to its ability to block Plasmodium transmission, it shows potential as a bio-based agent for the control of malaria. Its self-sustainability is promising, as it can spread through both vertical and horizontal transmissions. However, its low prevalence in mosquito populations remains a challenge. We develop an eco-epidemiological mathematical model describing the co-dynamics of Microsporidia MB (within mosquito population) and malaria (within human population). The model is used to assess the potential of Microsporidia MB-infected mosquitoes on the control of malaria infection. The results on the basic reproduction numbers, the stability of the equilibria, and the existence of bifurcations are obtained, providing conditions for the extinction and persistence of MB-infected mosquitoes. We highlight relevant threshold parameters for the elimination and persistence of MB-infected mosquitoes and malaria-infected individuals. Using real data from Kenya, we found that, given a horizontal transmission rate between 0 and 0.5, a minimum vertical rate of 0.55 is required to avoid extinction of MB-infected mosquitoes. The predicted prevalence of MB-infected mosquitoes using transmission rates reported from lab experiments align with the observed low prevalence of MB-infected mosquitoes in the field, thereby validating our model and results. Finally, predictions indicate that increasing MB mosquito infection could effectively control malaria, with target prevalence varying by region: 15% in Highland, 40% on the coast, and 70% in the Lake region. This study offers insights into the use of bio-based vector population replacement solutions to reduce malaria incidence in regions where Microsporidia MB is prevalent.},
}

@article {pmid40253436,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, J and Zheng, X and Yu, T and Ali, M and Wiese, J and Hu, S and Huang, L and Huang, Y},
title = {Diverse lifestyles and adaptive evolution of uncultured UBA5794 actinobacteria, a sister order of "Candidatus actinomarinales".},
journal = {Environmental microbiome},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {39},
pmid = {40253436},
issn = {2524-6372},
support = {92351301, 32470005, 42376238, and 32393970//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 91751000//Major Research Plan of the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; GML20240002//the PI Project of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou)/ ; },
abstract = {Uncultured UBA5794 actinobacteria are frequently found in marine and inland water environments by using metagenomic approaches. However, knowledge about these actinobacteria is limited, hindering their isolation and cultivation, and they are always confused with "Candidatus Actinomarinales" based on 16S rRNA gene classification. Here, to conduct genomic characterization of them, we obtained three high-quality UBA5794 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from a hydrothermal sediment on the Carlsberg Ridge (CR) and retrieved 131 high-quality UBA5794 genomes from public datasets. Phylogenomic analysis confirms UBA5794 as an independent order within the class Acidimicrobiia. Genome-based metabolic predictions reveal that flexible metabolism and diversified energy acquisition, as well as heavy metal(loid) detoxification capacity, are crucial for the ability of UBA5794 to thrive in diverse environments. Moreover, there is separation between sponge-associated and free-living UBA5794 groups in phylogeny and functional potential, which can be attributed to the symbiotic nature of the sponge-associated group and the extensive horizontal gene transfer (HGT) events observed in these bacteria. Ancestral state reconstruction suggests that the UBA5794 clade may have originated from a free-living environment and then some members gradually migrated to the sponge host. Overall, our study sheds light on the ecological adaptation and evolutionary history of the ubiquitous but poorly understood UBA5794 actinobacteria.},
}

@article {pmid40252635,
year = {2025},
author = {Taylor, H and Uhlig, HH and Powrie, F},
title = {Autoimmunity in inflammatory bowel disease: a holobiont perspective.},
journal = {Current opinion in immunology},
volume = {94},
number = {},
pages = {102557},
doi = {10.1016/j.coi.2025.102557},
pmid = {40252635},
issn = {1879-0372},
abstract = {Adaptive immunity towards self-antigens (autoimmunity) and intestinal commensal microbiota is a key feature of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Considering mucosal adaptive immunity from a holobiont perspective, where the host and its microbiome form a single physiological unit, emphasises the challenge of avoiding damaging responses to self-antigen and symbiotic microbial communities in the gut while protecting against potential pathogens. Intestinal tolerance mechanisms prevent maladaptive T and B cell responses to microbial, environmental, and self-antigens, which drive inflammation. We discuss the spectrum of antimicrobial and autoantibody responses and highlight mechanisms by which common IBD-associated adaptive immune responses contribute to disease.},
}

@article {pmid40251928,
year = {2025},
author = {Boem, F and Lamminpää, I and Amedei, A},
title = {Updating the Discontinuity Theory to the Extended Immunity: The Symmunobiome Concept.},
journal = {European journal of immunology},
volume = {55},
number = {4},
pages = {e202451528},
pmid = {40251928},
issn = {1521-4141},
support = {PE0000006//Italian Ministry of University and Research MNESYS/ ; B55F2100//University of Florence-European Union-Next Generation EU-CUP/ ; B83C22003920001//The National Recovery and Resilience Plan, Investment 1.5 Ecosystems of Innovation, Project Tuscany Health Ecosystem (THE), CUP/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Microbiota/immunology ; Animals ; *Immune System/immunology ; Symbiosis/immunology ; Homeostasis/immunology ; *Immunity ; Biological Evolution ; Immunity, Innate ; Adaptive Immunity ; },
abstract = {The immune system (IS) is commonly understood as a system composed of specific cells and tissues that have evolved to contrast pathogens and defend the host. By virtue of this capacity, it has come to be considered capable of making an essential distinction, that between self versus non-self, which would contribute to a clear identity of the organism. However, in the wake of evolution and ecology, growing evidence suggests that the so-called immune system, which also evolved from symbiotic interactions with external agents, is not just a defensive system that merely protects the organism but, on the contrary, is involved in many global regulatory and homeostatic functions. Moreover, in performing these many functions, IS is not only an ensemble of host cells and tissues but functionally is constitutively determined by the interaction with a set of associated microorganisms, that is, the human microbiome. In this scenario, it is open-and-shut that the microbiome itself is a functional part of this extended immune system. Organisms and microbiomes together, therefore, form a functional whole, which constitutes a privileged form of biological organization. In light of this evidence showing the inadequacy of traditional accounts, we propose to extend and supplement the current IS conceptualization by introducing the notion of the symmunobiome. With this term, we intend to characterize the microbiome's own and unavoidable component to overall immune functionality. Therefore, we suggest a new immune system determination, articulated in three linked pillars-adaptive immunity, innate immunity, and symmunobiome-to better grasp the diverse functionality of extended immunity.},
}

Humans
*Microbiota/immunology
Animals
*Immune System/immunology
Symbiosis/immunology
Homeostasis/immunology
*Immunity
Biological Evolution
Immunity, Innate
Adaptive Immunity

@article {pmid40250433,
year = {2025},
author = {Rao, AK and Yee, D and Chevalier, F and LeKieffre, C and Pavie, M and Olivetta, M and Dudin, O and Gallet, B and Hehenberger, E and Seifi, M and Jug, F and Deschamps, J and Wu, TD and Gast, R and Jouneau, PH and Decelle, J},
title = {Hijacking and integration of algal plastids and mitochondria in a polar planktonic host.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.076},
pmid = {40250433},
issn = {1879-0445},
abstract = {In oceanic plankton, various hosts are capable of engulfing and temporarily integrating microalgae (photosymbiosis) or just their photosynthetic plastids (kleptoplastidy) from the environment. These cellular interactions have been hypothesized to be representative of evolutionary steps in plastid acquisition in eukaryotes, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, we studied a polar kleptoplastidic dinoflagellate, which is known to steal plastids of the microalga Phaeocystis antarctica. We tracked the morphology and activity of stolen plastids over several months by combining multimodal subcellular imaging and photophysiology. Upon integration inside a host vacuole, the volume of plastids and pyrenoids significantly increased, and photosynthetic activity was boosted. This may be supported by the retention of a 50-fold larger algal nucleus for ∼1 week. Once the algal nucleus was lost, there was a decrease in plastid volume and photosynthesis, but nucleus- and plastid-encoded photosystem subunits were still detected. Carbon fixation and transfer to the host were also maintained after >2 months. We also showed that the algal mitochondrion was stolen and retained for several months, transforming into an extensive network interacting with plastids. This highlights a complex strategy in plankton along the continuum of plastid symbioses, where both plastids and mitochondria of a microalga are hijacked by a host for several months without the algal nucleus. This association, which we found to be widely distributed in polar regions, suggests that plastid-mitochondrion interaction may have played a role in the evolution of plastid acquisition and opens new questions about host control and organelle maintenance.},
}

@article {pmid40248851,
year = {2025},
author = {Weber, SE and Bascompte, J and Kahmen, A and Niklaus, PA},
title = {AMF diversity promotes plant community phosphorus acquisition and reduces carbon costs per unit of phosphorus.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70161},
pmid = {40248851},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {FK-21-106//University of Zürich/ ; //Zürich-Basel Plant Science Center/ ; 310030_197201//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung/ ; },
abstract = {Plants may benefit from more diverse communities of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), as functional complementarity of AMF may allow for increased resource acquisition, and because a high AMF diversity increases the probability of plants matching with an optimal AMF symbiont. We repeatedly radiolabeled plants and AMF in the glasshouse over c. 9 months to test how AMF species richness (SR) influences the exchange of plant C ([14]C) for AMF P ([32]P & [33]P) and resulting shoot nutrients and mass from a biodiversity-ecosystem functioning perspective. Plant P acquisition via AMF increased with sown AMF SR, as did shoot biomass, shoot P, and shoot N. The rate of plant C transferred to AMF for this P (C:P) decreased with sown AMF SR. Plants in plant communities benefit from inoculation with a variety of AMF species via more favorable resource exchange. Surprisingly, this effect did not differ among functionally distinct communities comprised entirely of either legumes, nonlegume forbs, or C3 grasses.},
}

@article {pmid40247696,
year = {2025},
author = {Tortorelli, G and Rosset, SL and Sullivan, CES and Woo, S and Johnston, EC and Walker, NS and Hancock, JR and Caruso, C and Varela, AC and Hughes, K and Martin, C and Quinn, RA and Drury, C},
title = {Heat-induced Stress Modulates Cell Surface Glycans and Membrane Lipids of Coral Symbionts.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wraf073},
pmid = {40247696},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {The susceptibility of corals to environmental stress is determined by complex interactions between host genetic variation and the Symbiodiniaceae family community. We exposed genotypes of Montipora capitata hosting primarily Cladocopium or Durusdinium symbionts to ambient conditions and an eight-day heat stress. Symbionts' cell surface glycan composition differed between genera and was significantly affected by temperature and oxidative stress. The metabolic profile of coral holobionts was primarily shaped by symbionts identity, but was also strongly responsive to oxidative stress. At peak temperature stress, betaine lipids in Cladocopium were remodeled to more closely resemble the abundance and saturation state of Durusdinium symbionts, which paralleled a larger metabolic shift in Cladocopium. Exploring how Symbiodiniaceae members regulate stress and host-symbiont affinity helps identify the traits contributing to coral resilience under climate change.},
}

@article {pmid40247144,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhao, YW and Zhao, TT and Sun, Q and Liu, XL and Huang, XY and Li, LG and Wang, HB and Li, WK and Wang, CK and Wang, WY and Xiang, Y and Ma, CN and Chen, XS and Cheng, L and Hu, DG},
title = {Enrichment of two important metabolites D-galacturonic acid and D-glucuronic acid inhibits MdHb1-mediated fruit softening in apple.},
journal = {Nature plants},
volume = {11},
number = {4},
pages = {891-908},
pmid = {40247144},
issn = {2055-0278},
support = {32122080//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; tsqnz20231206//Taishan Scholar Project of Shandong Province/ ; },
abstract = {In apples, fruit firmness is a crucial quality trait influencing fruit storability, transportability, shelf life and consumer preference. However, the genetic network underlying this trait remains unclear. Therefore, the present study investigated the changes in apple fruit at different stages of postharvest storage using a combination of transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses. With prolonged storage, we detected a significant increase in two metabolites, D-galacturonic acid (D-GalUA) and D-glucuronic acid (D-GlcA), which are associated with a key class 1 non-symbiotic haemoglobin (MdHb1). We innovatively found that MdHb1 regulates fruit softening by catalysing the conversion from protopectin to water-soluble pectin. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that MdMYB2/MdNAC14/MdNTL9 transcription factors directly bind to the MdHb1 promoter to activate its transcriptional expression and promote fruit softening. Further injection experiments in apple fruit and histological as well as transmission electron microscopy analyses of the fruit samples revealed that D-GalUA and D-GlcA reduce the transcription of MdHb1, or through the MdMYB2/MdNAC14/MdNTL9-MdHb1 regulatory module, thereby delaying fruit softening. Our study provides novel insights into the role of two important metabolites, D-GalUA and D-GlcA, in the regulation of MdHb1-mediated fruit softening in apples.},
}

@article {pmid40245733,
year = {2025},
author = {Banerjee, A and Singh, S and Bhaskar, T and Venkata Mohan, S and Ghosh, D},
title = {Anaerobic conversion of de-oiled yeast biomass fractionation waste to biomethane and biohydrogen for resource efficiency in biorefineries.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {382},
number = {},
pages = {125337},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125337},
pmid = {40245733},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {High-value intracellular bio-compounds are extracted from microbial biomass through cell fractionation processes, which generate discharge streams. These discharges are rich in organic carbon and nitrogen that are derived from the soluble and insoluble protein and carbohydrate polymers. The present study investigated the anaerobic conversion of such a tertiary waste stream generated during the production of glucan-chitin complex through fractionation of de-oiled yeast biomass (a type of spent microbial biomass, which is the solid leftover residue of yeast lipid production process). Fed-batch anaerobic processes of methanogenesis and acidogenesis were investigated for the generated discharge streams. An average COD removal of 47 % with 294 and 323.51 mg VFA/g COD, with a maximum yield of 133.61 mL CH4/g COD and 53.45 mL H2/g COD in methanogenic and acidogenic fermentation was achieved. Considering CH4 production and COD removal, methanogenesis performed better, while in terms of VFA production and subsequent COD removal, acidogenesis was suitable. The investigation indicated the relevance of anaerobic processes for the conversion of de-oiled biomass fractionation discharge streams and suggested a route for integrating aerobic downstream waste to anaerobic fermentation systems, subsequently eliminating a greywater footprint of 5233.04 g/L and opening a prospect for an industrial symbiosis system. The findings highlighted the potential of these systems in process integration for fermentation-based process chains to achieve circularity and resource efficiency in production.},
}

@article {pmid40245726,
year = {2025},
author = {Amir, N and Hussin, F and Aroua, MK and Gozan, M},
title = {Sustainable valorization of seaweed industrial by-product: Converting filter cake into valuable resources.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {382},
number = {},
pages = {125342},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125342},
pmid = {40245726},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Filter cake, a significant by-product of the seaweed industry, poses environmental risks by releasing harmful elements that can contaminate air, soil, and water. Despite its potential, the valorization of this by-product remains underexplored. Therefore, this study developed a novel pathway to valorize filter cake into valuable resources. The by-product was initially processed using practical methods, including drying, grinding, and sieving. Drying kinetics were thoroughly analyzed and compared with 24 thin-layer drying models. Subsequently, the by-product was characterized using TGA, FTIR, EDX, and SEM before calculating the associated costs and carbon dioxide emissions of valorization. Optimal valorization required two days of open sun drying, grinding, and sieving, followed by 150 min in a fluidized bed dryer. The modified Midili-Kucuk equation provided the best fit for the drying process. Valorization cost was estimated at US$ 0.651 per kg, with carbon dioxide emissions of 0.648 kg per kg. The characterization data revealed that the valorized by-product contains organic and inorganic materials, underscoring its potential as a valuable resource, specifically as a recycled aid filter, silica source, and growing medium. However, further studies are required to assess its potential. Ultimately, this research contributes to green manufacturing and chemistry by employing sustainable methods that minimize environmental impact. It also promotes sustainability, reduces costs through by-product reuse, and encourages responsible consumption and production, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 12, 9, and 15.},
}

@article {pmid40244681,
year = {2025},
author = {Maxwell, MWH and Causier, BE and Chippendale, J and Ault, JR and Bell, CA},
title = {Diet-regulated transcriptional plasticity of plant parasites in plant-mutualist environments.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {122},
number = {16},
pages = {e2421367122},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2421367122},
pmid = {40244681},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {BB/X009823/1//UKRI | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)/ ; BB/T001194/1//UKRI | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Symbiosis ; *Host-Parasite Interactions/genetics ; *Mycorrhizae/physiology ; Plant Roots/parasitology/microbiology ; Transcription Factors/metabolism/genetics ; *Tylenchoidea/genetics/physiology ; Monosaccharide Transport Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Diet ; },
abstract = {Crop pathogens often lack exclusive access to their host and must interact with plants concurrently engaged with numerous other symbionts. Here, we demonstrate that the colonization of hosts by plant-mutualistic mycorrhizal fungi can indirectly induce transcriptional responses of a major plant parasite, the nematode Globodera pallida, via a modified host resource profile. A shift in the resource profile of the root, where the parasite feeds, is perceived and responded to by the parasite through transcriptional changes, potentially to optimize resource intake. Specifically, G. pallida react to reduced host-photosynthate influx due to concurrent mycorrhizal-host symbiosis by upregulating the expression of a sugar transporter (SWEET3) in the nematode intestine. We identify this gene's role in parasite growth and development, regulated by the putative diet-responsive transcription factor Gp-HBL1. Overall, our data unveil a mechanism by which a parasitic animal responds to fluctuations in host plant quality that is induced by a plant-mutualistic fungus, to enhance parasitism and reproduction.},
}

Animals
*Symbiosis
*Host-Parasite Interactions/genetics
*Mycorrhizae/physiology
Plant Roots/parasitology/microbiology
Transcription Factors/metabolism/genetics
*Tylenchoidea/genetics/physiology
Monosaccharide Transport Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Diet

@article {pmid40244242,
year = {2025},
author = {Schenone, A and Massucco, S and Schenone, C and Venturi, CB and Nozza, P and Prada, V and Pomili, T and Di Patrizi, I and Capodivento, G and Nobbio, L and Grandis, M},
title = {Basic Pathological Mechanisms in Peripheral Nerve Diseases.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40244242},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {PE0000006 DN. 1553 11.10.2022//Ministry of University and Research (MUR)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/pathology/metabolism ; Animals ; Schwann Cells/pathology/metabolism ; Axons/pathology/metabolism ; Myelin Sheath/pathology/metabolism ; Demyelinating Diseases/pathology/metabolism ; Signal Transduction ; Wallerian Degeneration/pathology ; },
abstract = {Pathological changes and the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying axonopathy and myelinopathy are key to understanding a wide range of inherited and acquired peripheral nerve disorders. While the clinical indications for nerve biopsy have diminished over time, its diagnostic value remains significant in select conditions, offering a unique window into the pathophysiological processes of peripheral neuropathies. Evidence highlights the symbiotic relationship between axons and myelinating Schwann cells, wherein disruptions in axo-glial interactions contribute to neuropathogenesis. This review synthesizes recent insights into the pathological and molecular underpinnings of axonopathy and myelinopathy. Axonopathy encompasses Wallerian degeneration, axonal atrophy, and dystrophy. Although extensively studied in traumatic nerve injury, the mechanisms of axonal degeneration and Schwann cell-mediated repair are increasingly recognized as pivotal in non-traumatic disorders, including dying-back neuropathies. We briefly outline key transcription factors, signaling pathways, and epigenetic changes driving axonal regeneration. For myelinopathy, we discuss primary segmental demyelination and dysmyelination, characterized by defective myelin development. We describe paranodal demyelination in light of recent findings in nodopathies, emphasizing that it is not an exclusive indicator of demyelinating disorders. This comprehensive review provides a framework to enhance our understanding of peripheral nerve pathology and its implications for developing targeted therapies.},
}

Humans
*Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/pathology/metabolism
Animals
Schwann Cells/pathology/metabolism
Axons/pathology/metabolism
Myelin Sheath/pathology/metabolism
Demyelinating Diseases/pathology/metabolism
Signal Transduction
Wallerian Degeneration/pathology

@article {pmid40243922,
year = {2025},
author = {Tian, H and Lu, J and Liang, F and Ding, H and Xiao, C},
title = {Unassuming Lichens: Nature's Hidden Antimicrobial Warriors.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40243922},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {202401AT070076//Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects/ ; },
mesh = {*Lichens/chemistry/metabolism ; *Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Humans ; Candida albicans/drug effects ; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Benzofurans ; },
abstract = {In a hidden corner of the Earth, an ongoing war is being waged: a battle between lichens and microorganisms. Lichens, ancient and unique symbiotic organisms, with their unique survival wisdom, are bursting with vitality in extreme environments. Over 80% of secondary metabolites in lichens are not found in other organisms, making lichen-derived compounds a promising resource for the development of new drugs, particularly against drug-resistant microorganisms, due to their distinctive chemical structures and biological activities. This article aims to explore in depth the lichen species exhibiting antimicrobial activity and their antimicrobial metabolites and focus on unique compounds such as divaricatic acid, usnic acid, vulpinic acid, salazinic acid, and rhizocarpic acid, which demonstrate significant antimicrobial effects against various resistant microorganisms, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and Candida albicans and other drug-resistant microorganisms. Meanwhile, this paper discusses the potential applications and challenges associated with the use of lichens in medicine, agriculture, and food industry, aiming to elucidate these mysterious organisms for lichen researchers and enthusiasts while promoting further research and applications in the field of antimicrobials.},
}

*Lichens/chemistry/metabolism
*Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Humans
Candida albicans/drug effects
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Benzofurans

@article {pmid40243584,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhao, X and Mai, C and Xia, L and Jia, G and Li, X and Lu, Y and Li, Z and Yang, H and Wang, L},
title = {Molecular Insights into the Positive Role of Soybean Nodulation by GmWRKY17.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40243584},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {32241046, 32472158//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2025xczx03//Shanxi Breeding Innovation Joint research and development projects/ ; 2023ZD040350103//Scientific and Technological Innovation 2030-Major Projects/ ; 202204051001020//Science and Technology Innovation Young Talent Team of Shanxi Province/ ; 2021xG003, 2022xG0014//Scientific research fund for talents of Shanxi Agricultural University/ ; },
mesh = {*Glycine max/genetics/microbiology/metabolism ; *Plant Root Nodulation/genetics ; *Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Root Nodules, Plant/genetics/metabolism/microbiology ; CRISPR-Cas Systems ; Symbiosis ; *Transcription Factors/genetics/metabolism ; Cytokinins/metabolism ; Plants, Genetically Modified ; Abscisic Acid/metabolism ; RNA Interference ; Nitrogen Fixation ; },
abstract = {Soybean is an important economic oilseed crop, being rich in protein and plant oil, it is widely cultivated around the world. Soybeans have been shown to establish a symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) with their compatible rhizobia, resulting in the formation of nodules. Previous studies have demonstrated the critical roles of phytohormones, such as abscisic acid and cytokinin, in the process of legume nodulation. The present study investigated the role of GmWRKY17, a homolog of Rosa hybrida (Rh)WRKY13 in regulating plant immunity through cytokinin content and abscisic acid signaling in soybean nodulation. Utilizing real-time PCR and histochemical staining, we demonstrated that GmWRKY17 is predominantly expressed in soybean root nodules. Subsequently, we analyzed the function of GmWRKY17-overexpression, RNA interference (RNAi), and the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Overexpression of GmWRKY17 significantly increases soybean nodule number, while RNAi or CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of GmWRKY17 resulted in a dramatic repression of nodule formation in soybeans. These results highlight that GmWRKY17 functions as a positive regulator involved in soybean nodulation. Furthermore, manipulation of GmWRKY17 expression impacts the expression of genes associated with the nod factor (NF) signaling pathway, thereby influencing soybean nodulation. This study demonstrated that WRKY-type transcription factors are involved in the regulation of legume nodulation, offering new light on the molecular basis of the symbiotic interaction between legumes and rhizobia.},
}

*Glycine max/genetics/microbiology/metabolism
*Plant Root Nodulation/genetics
*Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Root Nodules, Plant/genetics/metabolism/microbiology
CRISPR-Cas Systems
Symbiosis
*Transcription Factors/genetics/metabolism
Cytokinins/metabolism
Plants, Genetically Modified
Abscisic Acid/metabolism
RNA Interference
Nitrogen Fixation

@article {pmid40243374,
year = {2025},
author = {Kustra, MC and Carrier, TJ},
title = {Microbes as manipulators of egg size and developmental evolution.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0365524},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.03655-24},
pmid = {40243374},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Marine invertebrates mainly reproduce by energy-poor eggs that develop into feeding larvae or energy-rich eggs that develop into non-feeding larvae. Evolutionary transitions between these developmental modes have been studied in detail, yet the evolutionary factor(s) responsible for these switches remains elusive. Here, we use theoretical models to support the premise that microbes with the capacity to manipulate host reproduction may be one possible factor. Our model predicts that microbial manipulators could create a sperm-limited environment that selects for larger eggs by shifting the host's sex ratio toward female dominance and, as a result, drive an evolutionary transition in the developmental mode for marine invertebrates. The loss of a microbial manipulator could then recover the ancestral egg size and developmental mode. We also suggest more than a dozen genera of marine invertebrates from throughout the world's oceans that fit the framework of a microbe-induced evolutionary transition between these predominant developmental modes. We anticipate that microbial manipulators have a yet-to-be-appreciated influence on the developmental evolution of marine invertebrates. We find it paramount to understand whether evolutionary transitions in developmental mode occur with and without microbial manipulators as well as whether the underlying mechanisms of these manipulations are convergent with terrestrial systems.

IMPORTANCE: Microbes that manipulate animal reproduction are widespread on land, and their evolutionary influence is widely acknowledged. Relatives of these manipulators are increasingly found in the ocean, but uniquely with taxa that recently underwent a transition in developmental evolution from feeding to non-feeding larvae. Here, we present theoretical models supporting that microbial manipulators could create a sperm-limited environment that selects for larger eggs by shifting the host's sex ratio toward female dominance and, as a result, drive an evolutionary transition in the developmental mode for free-spawning marine invertebrates. This theoretical model provides a complementary viewpoint to the theory regarding the evolutionary process that marine invertebrates undergo to transition between developmental modes as well as a fruitful opportunity to compare with terrestrial systems.},
}

@article {pmid40243333,
year = {2025},
author = {Gaddy, KE and Septer, AN and Mruk, K and Milton, ME},
title = {A mutualistic model bacterium is lethal to non-symbiotic hosts via the type VI secretion system.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0015725},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.00157-25},
pmid = {40243333},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {What makes a bacterium pathogenic? Since the early days of germ theory, researchers have categorized bacteria as pathogens or non-pathogens, those that cause harm and those that do not, but this binary view is not always accurate. Vibrio fischeri is an exclusive mutualistic symbiont found within the light organs of Hawaiian bobtail squid. This symbiotic interaction requires V. fischeri to utilize a range of behaviors and produce molecules that are often associated with pathogenicity. This juxtaposition of employing "pathogenic" behaviors for a symbiotic relationship led the field to focus on how V. fischeri establishes a beneficial association with its host. In this study, we observe that V. fischeri induces mortality in zebrafish embryos and Artemia nauplii. Non-lethal doses of V. fischeri lead to zebrafish growth delays and phenotypes indicative of disease. Our data also provide evidence that the conserved type VI secretion system on chromosome I (T6SS1) plays a role in the V. fischeri-induced mortality of zebrafish embryos and Artemia nauplii. These results support the hypothesis that the V. fischeri T6SS1 is involved in eukaryotic cell interactions. Despite its traditional view as a beneficial symbiont, we provide evidence that V. fischeri is capable of harming aquatic organisms, indicating its potential to be pathogenic toward non-symbiotic hosts.IMPORTANCEVibrio fischeri is best known for its beneficial partnership with the Hawaiian bobtail squid, where it uses molecular tools often associated with disease-causing bacteria. Our research shows that V. fischeri can also cause harm, killing zebrafish embryos and brine shrimp larvae. We pinpoint one of V. fischeri's two type VI secretion systems (T6SS1) as a key factor in this pathogenicity. These findings reveal that V. fischeri is not strictly a mutualistic microbe but can act like a pathogen under certain conditions. This broadens our understanding of how V. fischeri could interact with different hosts and offers new insights into the dual roles bacteria can play in nature.},
}

@article {pmid40242515,
year = {2025},
author = {Xu, J and Chen, N and Li, Z and Liu, Y},
title = {Gut microbiome and liver diseases.},
journal = {Fundamental research},
volume = {5},
number = {2},
pages = {890-901},
pmid = {40242515},
issn = {2667-3258},
abstract = {Symbiotic microbiota plays a crucial role in the education, development, and maintenance of the host immune system, significantly contributing to overall health. Through the gut-liver axis, the gut microbiota and liver have a bidirectional relationship that is becoming increasingly evident as more research highlights the translocation of the gut microbiota and its metabolites. The focus of this narrative review is to examine and discuss the importance of the gut-liver axis and the enterohepatic barrier in maintaining overall health. Additionally, we emphasize the crucial role of the gut microbiome in liver diseases and explore potential therapeutic strategies for liver diseases by manipulating the microbiota.},
}

@article {pmid40241821,
year = {2025},
author = {Terra, LA and Klepa, MS and Nogueira, MA and Hungria, M},
title = {Pangenome analysis indicates evolutionary origins and genetic diversity: emphasis on the role of nodulation in symbiotic Bradyrhizobium.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1539151},
pmid = {40241821},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {The Bradyrhizobium genus is widely known for encompassing many species capable of forming nodules and establishing the biological nitrogen fixation process with several legumes, significantly contributing to agriculture and environmental sustainability. Despite its importance, questions about the evolution, pangenome, and symbiotic genes of Bradyrhizobium are still poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed the pangenome of a set of Bradyrhizobium symbiotic species using the Roary and GET_HOMOLOGUES tools in strains originated from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. We also investigated the presence and correlation of the fix, nif, nod, Type III secretion system (T3SS) and their effector proteins, and T4SS genes, trying to find differences between clades, hosts, and biogeographic origin. Pangenome analysis of Bradyrhizobium species from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres provided valuable insights into their diversity, biogeography, origin, and co-evolution with their legume host plants. The genus possesses a relatively small core genome compared to the expanded accessory genome, a key feature that facilitates genetic exchange and acquisition of new genes, allowing adaptation to a variety of environments. Notably, the presence or absence of T3SS effector proteins varied significantly according to the geographic location, suggesting specific environmental adaptations, as well as a direct relationship with nodulation genes. Comparative analysis indicated that symbiotic Bradyrhizobium species originated in the Northern Hemisphere and present a greater diversity of orthologous groups than those from the Southern Hemisphere. These results contribute to our understanding of the evolutionary history of these symbiotic bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid40241336,
year = {2025},
author = {Mesquita, A and Cerqueira, D and Rocha, M and Silva, D and Martins, C and Souza, B},
title = {A Review on Rare and Symbiotic Actinobacteria: Emerging Biotechnological Tools Against Antimicrobial Resistance.},
journal = {Journal of basic microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70036},
doi = {10.1002/jobm.70036},
pmid = {40241336},
issn = {1521-4028},
support = {PNE-0112-00069.01.00/16//Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; PS1-0186-00170.01.00/21//Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; },
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global threat to public health, with projections estimating 10 million deaths annually by 2050 if current trends persist. Actinobacteria, renowned for their biosynthetic capacity, are a key source of bioactive compounds, producing over 75% of known antibiotics. The adaptability of these microorganisms allows them to thrive in diverse habitats, including extreme ones, through the production of secondary metabolites that are of paramount importance for industry. Furthermore, actinobacteria are capable of living in symbiosis with several organisms, producing metabolites to protect and promote the growth of the host in exchange for nutrients and shelter. Some of these metabolites, such as antibiotics, play a key role in combating host pathogens and can be biotechnologically exploited to combat human resistant pathogens. This review presents the origins of AMR, the unique biology of actinobacteria, as well as their diverse biosynthetic pathways and their role in mitigating the AMR crisis. It also highlights the need for innovative biotechnological strategies for the isolation of rare and understudied actinobacteria, as symbiotic actinobacteria, to avoid rediscovery of molecules while finding new potential natural products and scaffolds for synthetic drugs. By providing a better understanding of their ecological, genomic, and metabolic diversity, this review provides valuable insights into the exploration of rare and symbiotic actinobacteria for developing antimicrobial solutions.},
}

@article {pmid40241175,
year = {2025},
author = {Malassigné, S and Laÿs, M and Vallon, L and Martin, E and Meiffren, G and Vigneron, A and Tran Van, V and Minard, G and Valiente Moro, C and Luis, P},
title = {Environmental yeasts differentially impact the development and oviposition behavior of the Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus.},
journal = {Microbiome},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {99},
pmid = {40241175},
issn = {2049-2618},
mesh = {Animals ; *Oviposition ; *Aedes/microbiology/growth & development/physiology ; Female ; Larva/microbiology/growth & development ; *Yeasts/classification/physiology/metabolism ; Riboflavin/metabolism ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: While the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), a known vector of many arboviruses, establishes symbiotic associations with environmentally acquired yeasts, their impact on mosquito biology remains poorly investigated. To better understand these associations, we hypothesized that waterborne yeasts colonizing the larval gut differentially support mosquito development based on their capacity to produce riboflavin or recycle nitrogen waste into proteins by secreting uricase, as B vitamins and amino acids are crucial for mosquito development. To address this hypothesis, we used axenic and gnotobiotic insects to gauge the specific impact of different environmental yeasts on Ae. albopictus development and survival. We then evaluated whether the observed variations across yeast species could be linked to differential uricolytic activities and varying quantities of riboflavin and proteins in insecta. Finally, given that mosquito oviposition site selection favors conditions that enhance offspring performance, we tested whether yeasts that promote faster development mediate oviposition site selection by gravid females.

RESULTS: Differences in mosquito development times were observed based on the environmental yeast used. Yeasts like Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and Aureobasidium pullulans promoted rapid development and were associated with improved survival. Conversely, yeasts such as Torulaspora delbrueckii and Martiniozyma asiatica, which led to slower development, produced smaller adults. Notably, R. mucilaginosa, which promoted the fastest development, provided high riboflavin intakes and enhance nitrogenous waste recycling and protein synthesis through strong uricolytic-ureolytic activity. Behavioral experiments indicated that yeasts promoting rapid development "attract gravid females.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight that a set of environmental yeasts present in natural larval breeding sites can be associated with improved mosquito development and survival by enhancing nutritional intake, thereby attracting gravid females. Variations in mosquito development time are likely linked to the differential levels of riboflavin production and nitrogenous waste recycling capacities among yeast species. This study opens new perspectives on the trophic interactions between mosquitoes and their mycobiota, emphasizing the importance of nitrogen-containing molecules such as essential amino acids, proteins, or vitamins provided by the mycobiota. Video Abstract.},
}

Animals
*Oviposition
*Aedes/microbiology/growth & development/physiology
Female
Larva/microbiology/growth & development
*Yeasts/classification/physiology/metabolism
Riboflavin/metabolism

@article {pmid40241074,
year = {2025},
author = {Xiao, G and Wang, X and Xu, Z and Liu, Y and Jing, J},
title = {Lung-specific metastasis: the coevolution of tumor cells and lung microenvironment.},
journal = {Molecular cancer},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {118},
pmid = {40241074},
issn = {1476-4598},
support = {82404672//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023M742486//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Tumor Microenvironment ; *Lung Neoplasms/pathology/secondary/metabolism ; Animals ; Neoplasm Metastasis ; },
abstract = {The vast majority of cancer-related deaths are attributed to metastasis. The lung, being a common site for cancer metastasis, is highly prone to being a target for multiple cancer types and causes a heavy disease burden. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that tumor metastasis necessitates continuous interactions between tumor cells and distant metastatic niches. Nevertheless, a comprehensive elucidation of the underlying mechanisms governing lung-specific metastasis still poses a formidable challenge. In this review, we depict the lung susceptibility and the molecular profiles of tumors with the potential for lung metastasis. Under the conceptual framework of "Reciprocal Tumor-Lung Metastatic Symbiosis" (RTLMS), we mechanistically delineate the bidirectional regulatory dynamics and coevolutionary adaptation between tumor cells and distal pulmonary niches during lung-specific metastasis, including the induction of pre-metastatic-niches, positive responses of the lung, tumor colonization, dormancy, and reawakening. An enhanced understanding of the latest mechanisms is essential for developing targeted strategies to counteract lung-specific metastasis.},
}

Humans
*Tumor Microenvironment
*Lung Neoplasms/pathology/secondary/metabolism
Animals
Neoplasm Metastasis

@article {pmid40241006,
year = {2025},
author = {Czerwinski, A and Löwenstrom, J and Franzenburg, S and Groth, EE and Obeng, N and Schulenburg, H},
title = {PelD is required downstream of c-di-GMP for host specialization of Pseudomonas lurida.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {220},
pmid = {40241006},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Caenorhabditis elegans/microbiology ; *Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism ; Animals ; *Pseudomonas/genetics/physiology/metabolism ; Biofilms/growth & development ; Symbiosis ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Multigene Family ; Gene Expression Profiling ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The bacterial second messenger c-di-GMP is known to influence the formation of biofilms and thereby persistence of pathogenic and beneficial bacteria in hosts. A previous evolution experiment with Pseudomonas lurida MYb11, occasional symbiont of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, led to the emergence of host-specialized variants with elevated intracellular c-di-GMP. Thus far, the molecular underpinnings of c-di-GMP-mediated host specialization were unknown in this symbiosis. Therefore, the current study aimed at identifying candidate molecular processes by combining transcriptomic and functional genetic analyses.

RESULTS: We found that MYb11 host specialists differentially expressed genes related to attachment, motility and biofilm production, including pelD from the pel gene cluster. pelD deletion resulted in reduced intra-host competitive fitness, lower bacterial numbers in C. elegans and loss of biofilm biomass.

CONCLUSION: Our results identify pelD as a previously unknown key modulator of beneficial symbiont-host associations that acts downstream of c-di-GMP.},
}

*Caenorhabditis elegans/microbiology
*Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism
Animals
*Pseudomonas/genetics/physiology/metabolism
Biofilms/growth & development
Symbiosis
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Multigene Family
Gene Expression Profiling

@article {pmid40237471,
year = {2025},
author = {Njogu, AK and Logozzo, F and Conner, WR and Shropshire, JD},
title = {Counting rare Wolbachia endosymbionts using digital droplet PCR.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0326624},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.03266-24},
pmid = {40237471},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Wolbachia is the most widespread animal-associated intracellular microbe, living within the cells of over half of insect species. Since they can suppress pathogen replication and spread rapidly through insect populations, Wolbachia is at the vanguard of public health initiatives to control mosquito-borne diseases. Wolbachia's abilities to block pathogens and spread quickly are closely linked to their abundance in host tissues. The most common method for counting Wolbachia is quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), yet qPCR can be insufficient to count rare Wolbachia, necessitating tissue pooling and consequently compromising individual-level resolution of Wolbachia dynamics. Digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) offers superior sensitivity, enabling the detection of rare targets and eliminating the need for sample pooling. Here, we report three ddPCR assays to measure total Wolbachia abundance, Wolbachia abundance adjusted for DNA extraction efficiency, and Wolbachia density relative to host genome copies. Using Drosophila melanogaster with wMel Wolbachia as a model, we show these ddPCR assays can reliably detect as few as 7 to 12 Wolbachia gene copies in a 20 µL reaction. The designed oligos are homologous to sequences from at least 106 Wolbachia strains across supergroup A and 53 host species from the Drosophila, Scaptomyza, and Zaprionus genera, suggesting broad utility. These highly sensitive ddPCR assays are expected to significantly advance Wolbachia-host interactions research by enabling the collection of molecular data from individual insect tissues. Their ability to detect rare Wolbachia will be especially valuable in applied and natural field settings where pooling samples could obscure important variation.IMPORTANCEWolbachia bacteria live inside the cells of many animals, especially insects. In many insect species, almost every individual carries Wolbachia. How common Wolbachia becomes within a population often depends on how much of it is present in the insect's body. Therefore, accurately measuring Wolbachia levels is crucial for understanding how these bacteria interact with their hosts and spread. However, traditional molecular assays can lack the sensitivity needed for accurate, individual-level quantification of rare Wolbachia. Here, we present three highly sensitive digital droplet PCR assays for Wolbachia detection, offering superior sensitivity compared to existing methods. These assays will be useful for studies that measure Wolbachia abundance and related phenotypes in individual insects, providing enhanced resolution and improving efforts to characterize the mechanisms that govern phenotypic variation.},
}

@article {pmid40236481,
year = {2025},
author = {Alimu, A and Gao, Y and Liu, J and Lu, Y},
title = {Geographic factors influence communities of symbiotic bacterial communities in Aphis gossypii across China's major cotton regions.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1569543},
pmid = {40236481},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Aphids are often infected with diverse bacterial symbionts that enhance their ecological adaptation. While geographic factors significantly influence aphid bacterial communities, research on environmental effects on the cotton aphid Aphis gossypii Glover feeding on cotton plants across China's major cotton-growing regions is limited.

METHODS: This study examined the influence of geographic factors on the endosymbiotic bacterial community and diversity of A. gossypii by analyzing 58 field samples from 24 locations across China's major cotton-growing regions (2021-2022) using 16S rRNA (V3-V4) high-throughput sequencing.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Our results demonstrate that geography is an important factor in shaping the endosymbiotic bacterial composition and diversity of A. gossypii. Among China's three major cotton-growing regions, the Yangtze River Basin exhibited the highest bacterial diversity, followed by the Northwestern Inland Region, and then the Yellow River Basin. Acinetobacter, Lactobacillus, Serratia, and Aeromonas were more abundant in the Yangtze River Basin, with positive correlations observed for Acinetobacter, Serratia, and Aeromonas in relation to annual precipitation. In contrast, Candidatus Uzinura, dominant in southern Xinjiang, displayed negative correlations with precipitation and longitude but a positive correlation with altitude, and this report is the first detection of it in A. gossypii. Buchnera was ubiquitous and negatively associated with both precipitation and temperature, while Arsenophonus showed no significant environmental correlations. These findings highlight the distinct influences of geographic factors on A. gossypii endosymbiotic communities across China's major cotton-growing regions, broadening our understanding of aphid-endosymbiont-environment interactions and offering potential avenues for biocontrol strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40235960,
year = {2025},
author = {Basgaran, A and Lymberopoulos, E and Burchill, E and Reis-Dehabadi, M and Sharma, N},
title = {Machine learning determines the incidence of Alzheimer's disease based on population gut microbiome profile.},
journal = {Brain communications},
volume = {7},
number = {2},
pages = {fcaf059},
pmid = {40235960},
issn = {2632-1297},
abstract = {The human microbiome is a complex and dynamic community of microbes, thought to have symbiotic benefit to its host. Influences of the gut microbiome on brain microglia have been identified as a potential mechanism contributing to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, motor neurone disease and Parkinson's disease (Boddy SL, Giovannelli I, Sassani M, et al. The gut microbiome: A key player in the complexity of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). BMC Med. 2021;19(1):13). We hypothesize that population level differences in the gut microbiome will predict the incidence of Alzheimer's disease using machine learning methods. Cross-sectional analyses were performed in R, using two large, open-access microbiome datasets (n = 959 and n = 2012). Countries in these datasets were grouped based on Alzheimer's disease incidence and the gut microbiome profiles compared. In countries with a high incidence of Alzheimer's disease, there is a significantly lower diversity of the gut microbiome (P < 0.05). A permutational analysis of variance test (P < 0.05) revealed significant differences in the microbiome profile between countries with high versus low incidence of Alzheimer's disease with several contributing taxa identified: at a species level Escherichia coli, and at a genus level Haemophilus and Akkermansia were found to be reproducibly protective in both datasets. Additionally, using machine learning, we were able to predict the incidence of Alzheimer's disease within a country based on the microbiome profile (mean area under the curve 0.889 and 0.927). We conclude that differences in the microbiome can predict the varying incidence of Alzheimer's disease between countries. Our results support a key role of the gut microbiome in neurodegeneration at a population level.},
}

@article {pmid40235917,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, Y and Wang, Z and Sun, X and He, X and Zhang, Y},
title = {Specific soil factors drive the differed stochastic assembly of rhizosphere and root endosphere fungal communities in pear trees across different habitats.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1549173},
pmid = {40235917},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Pyrus betulifolia is tolerant to diverse environmental conditions and is commonly planted in infertile habitats (such as beaches and ridges) to conserve arable land for cereal crops. Symbiotic fungi in the rhizosphere and root endosphere benefit host plants by enhancing their resilience to nutritional deficiencies under stressful conditions. However, the mechanisms underlying the assembly of these symbiotic fungal communities in the roots of P. betulifolia across different habitats remain poorly understood.

METHODS: Pyrus betulifolia of 30-year-old were selected from five sites in northern China to investigate the assembly of fungal communities in the rhizosphere and root endosphere. Soil samples were collected to assess the heterogeneity of the environment surrounding each plant. Procrustes analysis, variance partitioning analysis, and ordination regression analysis were employed to explore the ecological relationships between soil factors and fungal community composition.

RESULTS: The rhizosphere fungal community exhibited higher richness, greater diversity and lower structural variability compared to the root endosphere. Additionally, the rhizosphere supported a fungal network with higher abundance and stronger connectivity than the root endosphere. The composition of fungal communities varies significantly among different regions. In both the rhizosphere and root endosphere fungal communities, the number of genera specific to mountainous regions was larger than those in plain areas and saline-alkali areas. Null model-based analyses indicated that the assembly of rhizosphere and root endosphere fungal communities in P. betulifolia was mainly governed by stochastic processes. Specifically, in non-saline-alkali soils, the assembly of rhizosphere fungi was primarily driven by dispersal limitation, whereas the assembly of root endosphere fungi was dominated by ecological drift. In saline-alkali soils, both rhizosphere and root endosphere fungal communities were primarily influenced by ecological drift.

CONCLUSION: The assembly of root-associated fungal communities in P. betulifolia is not only driven by soil physicochemical properties but also influenced by root compartment niche and topography. Moreover, the impact intensity of the root compartment niche is greater than topography. Specifically, the assembly of the rhizosphere fungal community was primarily influenced by alkaline nitrogen (AN) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), while the root endosphere fungal community was more strongly affected by pH and sucrase (SUC). These findings could provide valuable insights for the design of beneficial root-associated microbiomes to enhance fruit tree performance.},
}

@article {pmid40235687,
year = {2025},
author = {},
title = {Correction to: Significant role of symbiotic bacteria in the blood digestion and reproduction of Dermanyssus gallinae mites.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {ycae166},
doi = {10.1093/ismeco/ycae166},
pmid = {40235687},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1093/ismeco/ycae127.].},
}

@article {pmid40235654,
year = {2025},
author = {Ellis, SL and Baird, ME and Harrison, LP and Schulz, KG and Harrison, DP},
title = {A photophysiological model of coral bleaching under light and temperature stress: experimental assessment.},
journal = {Conservation physiology},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {coaf020},
pmid = {40235654},
issn = {2051-1434},
abstract = {Marine heatwaves occurring against the backdrop of rising global sea surface temperatures have triggered mass coral bleaching and mortality. Irradiance is critical to coral growth but is also an implicating factor in photodamage, leading to the expulsion of symbiotic algae under increased temperatures. Numerical modelling is a valuable tool that can provide insight into the state of the symbiont photochemistry during coral bleaching events. However, very few numerical physiological models combine the influence of light and temperature for simulating coral bleaching. The coral bleaching model used was derived from the coral bleaching representation in the eReefs configuration of the CSIRO Environmental Modelling Suite, with the most significant change being the equation for the rate of detoxification of reactive oxygen species. Simulated physiological bleaching outcomes from the model were compared to photochemical bleaching proxies measured during an ex situ moderate degree-heating week (up to 4.4) experiment. The bleaching response of Acropora divaricata was assessed in an unshaded and 30% shade treatment. The model-simulated timing for the onset of bleaching under elevated temperatures closely corresponded with an initial photochemical decline as observed in the experiment. Increased bleaching severity under elevated temperature and unshaded light was also simulated by the model, an outcome confirmed in the experiment. This is the first experimental validation of a temperature-mediated, light-driven model of coral bleaching from the perspective of the symbiont. When forced by realistic environmental conditions, process-based mechanistic modelling could improve accuracy in predicting heterogeneous bleaching outcomes during contemporary marine heatwave events and future climate change scenarios. Mechanistic modelling will be invaluable in evaluating management interventions for deployment in coral reef environments.},
}

@article {pmid40235528,
year = {2025},
author = {Cameirão, C and Pereira, JA and Tavares, R and Lino-Neto, T and Baptista, P},
title = {Bacterial dynamics and exchange in plant-insect interactions.},
journal = {Current research in insect science},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {100110},
pmid = {40235528},
issn = {2666-5158},
abstract = {In nature, plants and insects engage in intricate interactions. Despite the increasing knowledge of the microbiomes of plants and insects, the extent to which they exchange and alter each other's microbiomes remains unclear. In this work, the bacterial community associated with nymphs of Philaenus spumarius (Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae), the stems of Coleostephus myconis where the nymphs were feeding, and the foam produced by the nymphs, were studied by culture-dependent and -independent approaches, with an attempt to elucidate the exchange of bacteria between plants and insects. The results suggest that both approaches complement each other, as many bacterial genera identified by metabarcoding were not detected by culturing, and vice versa. Overall, stems and foam exhibited higher bacterial diversity than nymphs, with all the samples showing enrichment in bacteria known to provide diverse benefits to their host. Stems and foam were the most similar in bacterial composition, but Burkholderiaceae and Moraxellaceae dominated the stems, whereas Rhizobiaceae and Sphingobacteriaceae dominated the foam. Nymphs exhibit the most distinct bacterial composition, yet more similar to that found in the stem compared to the foam. Indeed, nymphs were enriched on endosymbiotic bacteria, mostly Candidatus Sulcia and Sodalis, not found in the stem and foam. Nevertheless, during feeding, nymphs appeared to exchange several bacteria genera with C. myconis, with a significant number being incorporated into the bacteriome of the nymph. The genera Curvibacter, Cutibacterium, Methylobacterium, Pseudomonas and Rhizobium are likely the most exchanged. Nymphs also appear to exchange bacteria to the foam, notably species from the Enhydrobacter, Pseudomonas, Rhizobium and Roseomonas genera. More studies to infer the functions of the shared bacteria between P. spumarius-C. myconis are needed.},
}

@article {pmid40235299,
year = {2025},
author = {Andongma, AA and Whitten, MMA and Chofong, GN and Dyson, PJ},
title = {The thrips gut pH and implications for symbiont-mediated RNAi.},
journal = {Bulletin of entomological research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-7},
doi = {10.1017/S0007485325000240},
pmid = {40235299},
issn = {1475-2670},
abstract = {The gut pH plays crucial roles in diet preference, habitat choice, insect fitness, and insect-microbial relationships. It significantly impacts enzyme activity efficiency, as well as the internalisation and efficacy of pesticides. Without a comprehensive understanding of the gut environment, potential pest management strategies cannot be fully optimised.This study investigates the gut pH of the globally invasive pest insect Western flower thrips Frankliniella occidentalis, and the effect its Gram-negative symbiotic gut bacterium BFo2 has on pH modulation. Indicator dyes were fed to F. occidentalis and the gut pH was found to vary between 6 and 7. In general, the larval and adult guts appear to have a pH of between 6 and 6.5; however, the posterior gut of some adults appears to be closer to 7. This almost neutral pH offers a favourable environment for the neutrophilic symbiotic BFo2. The ability of BFo2 isolates to buffer pH towards neutral was also observed during in vitro culture using broths at different pH values.This paper also discusses the implications of this gut environment on dsRNAi delivery. By laying the foundation for understanding how gut pH can be leveraged to enhance current pest management strategies, this study particularly benefits research aimed at optimising the delivery of lethal dsRNA through symbiont-mediated RNAi to Western flower thrips in pest management programs.},
}

@article {pmid40233891,
year = {2025},
author = {Luo, Y and Lan, C and Ren, W and Wu, A and Yu, B and He, J and Chen, D},
title = {Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron: A symbiotic ally against diarrhea along with modulation of gut microbial networks via tryptophan metabolism and AHR-Nrf2 signaling.},
journal = {Journal of advanced research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jare.2025.04.016},
pmid = {40233891},
issn = {2090-1224},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Bacteroides is a crucial mucosal symbiotic bacterium in mammals, with Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron (B. thetaiotaomicron) being particularly noteworthy as a glyco-specialist due to its significant nutritional impact. However, B. thetaiotaomicron may affect host health, but related research is limited.

OBJECTIVES: Our main focus is to understand the patterns of microbial community changes and the molecular mechanisms mediated by microbial metabolites in the alleviation of piglet diarrhea by B. thetaiotaomicron.

METHODS: Cold stress was induced in piglets to trigger stress-induced diarrhea. The control group and B group were administered a blank medium and 1 × 10[8] CFU of B. thetaiotaomicron, respectively, on days 1, 3, and 5. The diarrhea rate and growth performance of the piglets were recorded during the experimental period. Based on 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, microbial network analysis, and metabolomics analysis, the composition and changes of the colonic microbiota and metabolites were analyzed. The antibacterial capacity and anti-inflammatory molecular mechanisms of B. thetaiotaomicron metabolites were analyzed through in vitro antibacterial assays and inflammatory cell models.

RESULTS: B. thetaiotaomicron alleviated diarrhea in piglets and improved their growth performance. It influenced the composition of the intestinal microbiota and microbial interactions, with metabolites primarily enriched in the tryptophan metabolism pathway, particularly indole and its derivatives, which were closely related to host phenotypes. In vitro co-culture experiments demonstrated that B. thetaiotaomicron metabolites inhibited the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Further in vitro experiments revealed that these metabolites, including indole, reinforced barrier function and reduced TNF-α-induced inflammation and apoptosis in Caco-2 cells, confirming the significance of the AHR-Nrf2 pathway in mediating these positive effects.

CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this study offers a theoretical framework for understanding the role of the symbiotic bacterium B. thetaiotaomicron in the gut microbiota ecosystem during diarrhea and its interactions with the host's intestinal tract.},
}

@article {pmid40233882,
year = {2025},
author = {Gao, J and Mang, Q and Li, Q and Sun, Y and Xu, G},
title = {Microbial-algal symbiotic system drives reconstruction of nitrogen, phosphorus, and methane cycles for purification of pollutants in aquaculture water.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {132531},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.132531},
pmid = {40233882},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Intensive aquaculture's excessive nitrogen, phosphorus, and methane emissions caused environmental degradation. This study explored how algae-bacteria symbiotic systems (ABSS) enhanced water purification by regulating element cycles. We established a Chlorella pyrenoidosa-Bacillus subtilis symbiotic system. At a 1:1 bacteria-to-algae ratio, chlorophyll a and cell dry weight were highest. C. pyrenoidosa supplied organic acids, carbohydrates, and amino acids to B. subtilis, which reciprocated with amino acids, purines, and vitamins. ABSS significantly reduced total nitrogen, ammonia nitrogen (NH4[+]-N), nitrite (NO2[-]-N), nitrate (NO3[-]-N), phosphate (PO4[3-]-P), total phosphorous, dissolved organic carbon, and chemical oxygen demand in aquaculture water. It reshaped microbial communities and enriched key genus (Limnohabitans, Planktophila, Polaromonas, Methylocystis) and upregulating genes linked to organic phosphate mineralization, methane oxidation, and nitrate reduction. These changes strengthened nitrogen-phosphorus-methane cycle coupling, boosting water purification. ABSS offers an eco-engineering solution for aquaculture pollution by optimizing microbial interactions and nutrient cycling.},
}

@article {pmid40233415,
year = {2025},
author = {Diamond, MJ},
title = {Toward Eradicating the Unbearable: The Dangerous Allure of Fascistic States of Mind.},
journal = {The Psychoanalytic quarterly},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-31},
doi = {10.1080/00332828.2025.2481955},
pmid = {40233415},
issn = {2167-4086},
abstract = {To understand fascistic group movements, it is necessary to understand the dynamics of fascistic states of mind within all of us. Following a note on the American polity, the author differentiates fascism from authoritarianism before reviewing the dynamics of fascistic states of mind, including the omnipotent longing for purity and its relationship to destructive narcissism. Considering the role of the death drive, the allure of the fascistic state is explored, based largely in the need to avoid primary terrors of annihilation. In addressing the movement of such states from the individual psyche to the larger group mind, the author examines the symbiotic fit between the leader and the group's unconscious fears and phantasies, as illustrated by perverse containment within the cult of Trumpism. Finally, in noting the inability of reason alone to contain destructive forces, he ponders how we might deal with fascistic states of mind most effectively in individuals, groups, and ourselves.},
}

@article {pmid40232938,
year = {2025},
author = {Nogueira, JCC and Boldori, JR and Santos Ribas, LP and Lunardi, AG and Aguiar, TA and Carriço, MRS and Roehrs, R and Denardin, CC},
title = {Toxicity and Antioxidant Activity of Black Tea Kombucha in Wistar Rats: A 28-Day Repeated Dose Oral Study.},
journal = {Chemistry & biodiversity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e202500046},
doi = {10.1002/cbdv.202500046},
pmid = {40232938},
issn = {1612-1880},
abstract = {Kombucha is a fermented beverage produced from sweetened black tea using a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts. While studies suggest potential health benefits, such as antioxidant activity, its toxicological profile must be thoroughly evaluated to ensure safe consumption. This study aimed to assess the subacute oral toxicity of kombucha over 28 days in Wistar rats and evaluate its effects on oxidative stress markers. Forty female Wistar rats were divided into four groups: a control group receiving saline (1 mL/100 g), and three treatment groups-T1 (1 mL/100 g) and T2 (2 mL/100 g) receiving kombucha fermented for 7 days, and T3 (1 mL/100 g) receiving kombucha fermented for 14 days. All treatments were administered daily for 28 days. No signs of toxicity, mortality, or histopathological changes in tissue morphology were observed. However, significant behavioral changes, including increased exploration and self-care, were noted. Additionally, kombucha administration modulated the activity of antioxidant enzymes, specifically superoxide dismutase and catalase, and reduced tissue lipid peroxidation. These findings suggest that kombucha fermented for 7 and 14 days is non-toxic and exhibits antioxidant properties by modulating oxidative stress markers in Wistar rats.},
}

@article {pmid40232537,
year = {2025},
author = {Guarnizo, ÁL and Marqués-Gálvez, JE and Arenas, F and Navarro-Ródenas, A and Morte, A},
title = {Morphological and molecular development of Terfezia claveryi ectendomycorrhizae exhibits three well-defined stages.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {35},
number = {2},
pages = {31},
pmid = {40232537},
issn = {1432-1890},
support = {PID2020-115210RB-I00//Agencia Estatal de Investigación/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/growth & development/genetics/physiology/cytology ; *Symbiosis ; *Ascomycota/growth & development/genetics/physiology ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; },
abstract = {The normal development of mycorrhizal symbiosis is a dynamic process, requiring elaborately regulated interactions between plant roots and compatible fungi, mandatory for both partners´ survival. In the present study, we further elucidated the mycorrhizal development of the desert truffles Terfezia claveryi with the host plant Helianthemum almeriense as an ectendomycorrhizal symbiosis model under greenhouse conditions. To investigate this, we evaluated the morphology of mycorrhizal colonization, concomitantly with the dynamic expression of selected marker genes (6 fungal and 11 plant genes) measured every week until mycorrhiza maturation (three months). We were able to determine 3 main stages in the mycorrhization process, 1) pre-symbiosis stage where mycelium is growing in the soil with no direct interaction with roots, 2) early symbiosis stage when the fungus spreads along the roots intercellularly and plant-fungal signaling is proceeding, and 3) late symbiosis stage where the fungus consolidates and matures with intracellular hyphal colonization; this is characterized by the regulation of cell-wall remodeling processes.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/growth & development/genetics/physiology/cytology
*Symbiosis
*Ascomycota/growth & development/genetics/physiology
Plant Roots/microbiology

@article {pmid40231847,
year = {2025},
author = {Kamp, DL and Kerwin, AH and McAnulty, SJ and Nyholm, SV},
title = {Organ structure and bacterial microbiogeography in a reproductive organ of the Hawaiian bobtail squid reveal dimensions of a defensive symbiosis.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0216324},
doi = {10.1128/aem.02163-24},
pmid = {40231847},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Many plants and animals house symbiotic microorganisms in specialized tissues or organs. Here, we used multidimensional in situ imaging techniques to illuminate how host organ structure and bacterial microbiogeography contribute to the symbiotic function of an organ in the Hawaiian bobtail squid, Euprymna scolopes. Along with the well-studied light organ, female E. scolopes harbor a community of bacteria in the accessory nidamental gland (ANG). The ANG is a dense network of epithelium-lined tubules, some of which are dominated by a single bacterial taxon. These bacteria are deposited into squid eggs, where they defend the developing embryos from harmful biofouling. This study used a combination of imaging techniques to visualize different dimensions of the ANG and its bacterial communities. Imaging entire organs with light sheet microscopy revealed that the ANG is a composite tissue of individual, non-intersecting tubules that each harbor their own bacterial population. The organ is bisected, with tubules converging toward two points at the posterior end. At these points, tubules empty into a space where bacteria can mix with squid jelly to be deposited onto eggs. Observations of the symbiotic community correlated bacterial taxa with cell morphology and revealed that tubule populations varied: some tubules contained populations of mixed taxa, whereas others contained only one bacterial genus. Together, these data shed light on how bacterial populations interact within the ANG and how the host uses physical structure to maintain and employ a symbiotic bacterial population in a defensive context.IMPORTANCESequence-based microbiome studies have revealed much about how hosts interact with communities of symbiotic microbiota but often lack a spatial understanding of how microbes relate to each other and the host in which they reside. This study uses a combination of microscopy techniques to reveal how the structure of a symbiotic organ in the female bobtail squid, Euprymna scolopes, houses diverse, beneficial bacterial populations and deploys them for egg defense. These findings suggest that spatial partitioning may be key to harboring a diverse population of antimicrobial-producing bacteria and establishing a foundation for further understanding how host structures mediate symbiotic interactions.},
}

@article {pmid40231754,
year = {2025},
author = {Poelmans, W and Beeckman, T and Lakehal, A},
title = {The multifaceted role of auxin in root growth and branching: Insights from non-seed vascular plants.},
journal = {Physiologia plantarum},
volume = {177},
number = {2},
pages = {e70210},
doi = {10.1111/ppl.70210},
pmid = {40231754},
issn = {1399-3054},
support = {101062418//HORIZON EUROPE Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions/ ; 11I3721N//Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO)/ ; G027313N//Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO)/ ; G028421N//Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO)/ ; },
mesh = {*Indoleacetic Acids/metabolism ; *Plant Roots/growth & development/metabolism/genetics ; *Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; },
abstract = {Plant root systems play a crucial role in taking up water and nutrients, as well as in facilitating symbiotic partnerships with microorganisms like rhizobia and mycorrhizae that enhance nutrient fixation and assimilation. Extensive research in seed plants has demonstrated the dominant role of the phytohormone auxin during root development in this group of vascular plants. Non-seed vascular plants (lycophytes, horsetails and ferns) occupy a key phylogenetic position as the sister group to seed plants, making them essential for understanding the evolution of roots. These lineages exhibit distinct root development and branching patterns, in which the hormone auxin might play a pivotal role. However, the molecular basis underlying its function during root development in these plant groups remains poorly understood. In this review, we summarize the current progress in our understanding of auxin-mediated root initiation, patterning, and branching in vascular non-seed plants while highlighting outstanding key questions. Despite limited research, the available evidence suggests that both conserved and lineage-specific auxin-dependent genetic circuits regulate root development in these species. While remaining relatively limited in lycophytes and ferns, seed plants have evolved extensive environmentally sensitive regulatory networks facilitating the adaptation of their branching strategies to perceived external cues. These networks likely emerged through the duplication and neofunctionalization of gene families involved in auxin transport and signalling, as well as their downstream factors, such as LBD and PLT genes.},
}

*Indoleacetic Acids/metabolism
*Plant Roots/growth & development/metabolism/genetics
*Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant

@article {pmid40231499,
year = {2025},
author = {Nasser, A and Jahanbakhshi, S},
title = {Interaction Between Staphylococcus aureus and Microbiota: Invasion or Commensalism.},
journal = {Current pharmaceutical biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/0113892010364717250404175242},
pmid = {40231499},
issn = {1873-4316},
abstract = {The term "Microbiota" refers to the vast array of symbiotic microorganisms that coexist with their hosts in practically all organs. However, the microbiota must obtain nutrition and minerals from its host to survive; instead, they produce beneficial compounds to protect the host and regulate the immune system. Conversely, pathogenic bacteria utilize their enzymes to independently gain sustenance through an invasive process without almost any beneficial compound production. One of the fully equipped pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus, is present in nearly every organ and possesses a variety of defense and invasion systems including an enzyme, a mineral collection system, a system for detecting environmental conditions, and broad toxins. The microbiota properly can defend its kingdom against S. aureus; however, if necessary, the host immune system is alerted against the pathogen, so this system also acts against the pathogen, a game that can ultimately lead to the death of the pathogen. However, S. aureus can change the host's conditions in its favor by changing the host's conditions and causing inflammation, a condition that cannot be tolerated by the microbiota. In this review, we will explain how microbiota defend against S. aureus.},
}

@article {pmid40230086,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhong, X and Hui, J and Zhang, H and Zeng, Q and Han, D and Tian, H},
title = {TaLAC129 is a negative regulator of arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis but enhanced the growth and yield of bread wheat.},
journal = {The Plant journal : for cell and molecular biology},
volume = {122},
number = {1},
pages = {e70136},
doi = {10.1111/tpj.70136},
pmid = {40230086},
issn = {1365-313X},
support = {2021YFD1900700//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2024T170732//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; 31972497//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024JC-YBQN-0235//Natural Science Basic Research Program of Shaanxi/ ; },
mesh = {*Triticum/genetics/growth & development/microbiology/metabolism ; *Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Symbiosis/genetics/physiology ; *Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism ; Phosphorus/metabolism ; *Laccase/genetics/metabolism ; Nitrogen/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis enhances nutrient acquisition and stress resilience in plants, yet the genetic mechanisms regulating this interaction in wheat remain poorly understood. This study explores the variation in AM colonization rates across a diverse set of wheat varieties and aims to identify key genes that regulate the wheat-AM symbiosis. Understanding these molecular mechanisms is crucial for improving nutrient uptake efficiency and stress resistance in wheat breeding programs. Here, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 291 wheat varieties and integrated transcriptomic data to identify TaLAC129, a laccase (LAC)-encoding gene, as a critical negative regulator of AM colonization in wheat roots. Overexpression of TaLAC129 significantly increased root LAC activity and lignin content, concurrently suppressing AM colonization. While this suppression reduced nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) uptake in stems, leaves, and glumes, it markedly enhanced nutrient utilization efficiency (NUE) in grains. Furthermore, TaLAC129 overexpression improved agronomic traits, including grains per panicle, 1000-grain weight, and overall yield. Our findings reveal the dual role of TaLAC129 in balancing AM symbiosis and nutrient allocation, offering a novel genetic target for breeding wheat varieties with improved yield and nutrient efficiency. This study provides critical insights into the molecular coordination between symbiotic trade-offs and agricultural productivity in cereal crops.},
}

*Triticum/genetics/growth & development/microbiology/metabolism
*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Symbiosis/genetics/physiology
*Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Genome-Wide Association Study
Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism
Phosphorus/metabolism
*Laccase/genetics/metabolism
Nitrogen/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant

@article {pmid40228808,
year = {2025},
author = {Jones, KR and Duong, T and Sacci, O and Gregory, CL and Belden, LK},
title = {Amphibian bacterial communities assemble variably among host species, across development, and between similar habitats.},
journal = {Integrative and comparative biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/icb/icaf014},
pmid = {40228808},
issn = {1557-7023},
abstract = {Symbiotic host-associated microbial communities are nearly ubiquitous and are often essential to host growth and development. The assembly of these communities on hosts is the result of a combination of the processes of selection, dispersal, and drift. For some species, essential symbionts are quickly acquired from the environment during embryonic development, while others may vertically acquire symbionts from parents. For amphibians with complex life cycles that undergo metamorphosis, an additional physiological transition from larval to adult forms may represent another distinct developmental window for bacterial colonization. Prior research has demonstrated that metamorphosis impacts the composition of amphibian-associated bacterial communities, however, we do not know whether similar shifts occur during metamorphosis across different amphibian species. To more clearly understand patterns in microbiome development across host species within a given area, we assessed the bacterial communities associated with eggs from five locally-occurring amphibian species and tadpoles and juveniles from four of the species. Additionally, to determine if stochasticity result in varied microbiome composition among conspecifics, we raised one species, spring peepers (Pseudacris crucifer), in outdoor 1000 L mesocosms. Through 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, we detected distinct bacterial communities across amphibian species and development. Additionally, we found that tadpoles harbored different communities of bacteria in the different mesocosms, suggesting that stochasticity may play a large role in bacterial assembly on tadpoles. Our results serve to deepen our understanding of natural shifts in amphibian-associated bacterial communities and how these shifts are host-species dependent. Additionally, this study provides support for the idea that stochasticity in the form of drift or priority effects can drive individual variation in microbiome composition among hosts.},
}

@article {pmid40228606,
year = {2025},
author = {Lee, J and McClure, S and Weichselbaum, RR and Mimee, M},
title = {Designing live bacterial therapeutics for cancer.},
journal = {Advanced drug delivery reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {115579},
doi = {10.1016/j.addr.2025.115579},
pmid = {40228606},
issn = {1872-8294},
abstract = {Humans are home to a diverse community of bacteria, many of which form symbiotic relationships with their host. Notably, tumors can also harbor their own unique bacterial populations that can influence tumor growth and progression. These bacteria, which selectively colonize hypoxic and acidic tumor microenvironments, present a novel therapeutic strategy to combat cancer. Advancements in synthetic biology enable us to safely and efficiently program therapeutic drugs production in bacteria, further enhancing their potential. This review provides a comprehensive guide to utilizing bacteria for cancer treatment. We discuss key considerations for selecting bacterial strains, emphasizing their colonization efficiency, the delicate balance between safety and anti-tumor efficacy, and the availability of tools for genetic engineering. We also delve into strategies for precise spatiotemporal control of drug delivery to minimize adverse effects and maximize therapeutic impact, exploring recent examples of engineered bacteria designed to combat tumors. Finally, we address the underlying challenges and future prospects of bacterial cancer therapy. This review underscores the versatility of bacterial therapies and outlines strategies to fully harness their potential in the fight against cancer.},
}

@article {pmid40228525,
year = {2025},
author = {Bruyant, P and Doré, J and Vallon, L and Moënne-Loccoz, Y and Almario, J},
title = {Needle in a Haystack: Culturing Plant-Beneficial Helotiales Lineages From Plant Roots.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {27},
number = {4},
pages = {e70082},
pmid = {40228525},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {//French Ministère de l'Enseignemnet Supérieur et la Recherche/ ; //AnaEE France (ANR-11-INBS- 0001 AnaEE-Services, Investissements d'Avenir frame/ ; //the French National program EC2CO (Ecosphère Continentale et Côtière)/ ; //Défi ISOTOP initiative (CNRS, MITI, France)/ ; ANR-22-CE02-0018//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; //Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique/ ; //Lautaret Garden - UAR 3370 (Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, 38000 Grenoble, France)/ ; },
mesh = {*Plant Roots/microbiology ; Phylogeny ; *Endophytes/isolation & purification/classification/genetics ; Soil Microbiology ; Mycorrhizae/isolation & purification/genetics ; *Brassicaceae/microbiology ; Caryophyllaceae/microbiology ; Symbiosis ; DNA, Fungal/genetics ; },
abstract = {Root-associated Helotiales fungi are increasingly recognised as beneficial fungal partners promoting plant growth under nutrient-limited conditions, particularly, in non-mycorrhizal hosts lacking the ancestral arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis. However, the ecology of these fungi is still cryptic as relatively few lineages have been successfully cultivated from roots for further study. Here, we attempted the mass isolation of root endophytic fungi to evaluate the recovery of known plant-beneficial Helotiales lineages using a tailored culture-based approach. We sampled six wild non-mycorrhizal species from the Brassicaceae, Caryophyllaceae, and Cyperaceae, growing in nutrient-limited alpine soils. We isolated 602 root endophytes and compared this culturable diversity with the one observed via fungal ITS2 metabarcoding. Metabarcoding revealed that Helotiales taxa dominated the fungal communities, with 43% of these detected taxa also represented in our collection. Accordingly, most root endophytes in our collection (53%) were Helotiales. These isolates, some with P solubilisation potential, belonged primarily to three Helotialean clades and were phylogenetically related to plant growth-promoting or mycorrhizal-like strains. This analysis highlights that the roots of alpine non-mycorrhizal plants harbour diverse plant-beneficial root-endophytic Helotiales, and the isolates obtained are a promising resource to explore the plant-beneficial mechanisms and ecological traits of these fungi.},
}

*Plant Roots/microbiology
Phylogeny
*Endophytes/isolation & purification/classification/genetics
Soil Microbiology
Mycorrhizae/isolation & purification/genetics
*Brassicaceae/microbiology
Caryophyllaceae/microbiology
Symbiosis
DNA, Fungal/genetics

@article {pmid40228454,
year = {2025},
author = {Asif, A and Koner, S and Hsu, PC and He, BJ and Paul, S and Hussain, B and Hsu, BM},
title = {Synergistic interactions between AMF and MHB communities in the rhizospheric microenvironment facilitated endemic hyperaccumulator plants growth thrive under heavy metal stress in ultramafic soil.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {492},
number = {},
pages = {138233},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.138233},
pmid = {40228454},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Ultramafic outcrop settings are characterized by long-term heavy metal (HM) stress and nutrient imbalances, making plant resilience highly challenging. This study investigated that how native plant types in the serpentine environment influence the variation of synergistic interactions between rhizosphere arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and mycorrhizal helper bacteria (MHB) communities under HM stress and nutrient-deficient conditions, which support native plant endemism and their HM accumulation potential. The results displayed significant enrichment of key MHB (Rhizobium_tropici, Bacillus_subtilis, Pseudomonas_parafulva, Pseudomonas_akapagensis) and AMF species (Glomus_constrictum, Glomus_aggregatum, Rhizophagus_intraradices, Rhizophagus_irregularis) in rhizosphere soils (q < 0.05). Pseudomonas_chlororaphis and Burkholderia_cepacia were strongly associated with Rhizophagus_irregularis and Glomus_mosseae in Panicum maximum Jacq (PMJ) and Bidens pilosa (BP) under chromium (Cr), and cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As) stress. Pseudomonas_fluorescens and Bacillus_pabuli were linked to Geosiphon_pyriformis and Glomus_aggregatum in Pueraria montana (PM) under nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and cobalt (Co) stress, while Arthrobacter_globiformis and Rhizobium_leguminosarum were associated with Glomus_intraradices under copper (Cu) stress in Leucaena leucocephala (LL). Pathways related to nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (NPK) cycling, HM detoxification, and resistance were enriched, with AMF predominantly symbiotrophic root-endophytic, except for one as lichenized nostoc endosymbiont. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) showed HM stress and nutrients influence MHB-AMF symbiosis, while pH moisture content (MC) and electric conductivity (EC) significantly regulate their distribution. Rhizobium_leguminosarum, Rhizobium_tropici, Nitrospira_japonica, and Rhizobium_cauense with Glomus_mosseae and Rhizophagus_irregularis drive NPK cycling in HM-stressed rhizosphere soils. This finding suggested that association between plants type and their functional rhizosphere microbiome promote an eco-friendly strategy for HM recovery from serpentine soil.},
}

@article {pmid40228382,
year = {2025},
author = {Mason, ARG and Salomon, MJ and Lowe, AJ and Cavagnaro, TR},
title = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi inoculation and biochar application enhance soil carbon and productivity in wheat and barley.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {977},
number = {},
pages = {179230},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.179230},
pmid = {40228382},
issn = {1879-1026},
abstract = {Influencing the global carbon cycle via modification to the terrestrial soil carbon pool has been suggested as one solution to help mitigate climate change. Cropping systems cover a vast expanse of earth's surface and represent a major carbon exchange point. Investigating management practices and biotechnologies capable of influencing soil carbon in cropping systems is thus a valuable endeavour, as even modest interventions have the capacity to increase carbon stocks and improve soil fertility and plant production. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are obligate biotrophs forming mutually beneficial relationships with a wide array of symbiotic partners. Increasingly, AMF are being investigated for their potential to enhance agricultural productivity through inoculation of soil and seeds with living propagules or spores. Beyond their positive influence on plant growth and resilience, AMF may have some capacity to influence the global carbon cycle through several conceptually recognised yet poorly understood mechanisms, warranting further exploration. Here, we evaluate the potential of AMF as an inoculant to promote soil carbon sequestration in wheat and barley under greenhouse conditions. We assess the growth response of these crops and explore interactive effects of AMF with several organic amendments. Both wheat and barley exhibited a strong mycorrhizal growth response, with inoculation significantly increasing biomass (root and shoot dry weight) and productivity (head dry weight), especially under low nutrient conditions. Effects of AMF on soil carbon cycling were assessed through soil respiration, total carbon (TC) content, and easily extractable organic carbon. Inoculation significantly increased soil TC concentration in both the unamended control and the biochar-amended wheat treatments. We reveal evidence for a biochar + AMF carbon stabilisation pathway, whereby biochar may act to stabilise new fungal derived carbon inputs while reducing soil respiration. We discuss these results in the context of carbon credit generation and climate change mitigation potential.},
}

@article {pmid40228122,
year = {2025},
author = {Bashyal, S and Everett, H and Matsuura, S and Müller, LM},
title = {A plant CLE peptide and its fungal mimic promote arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis via CRN-mediated ROS suppression.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {122},
number = {16},
pages = {e2422215122},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2422215122},
pmid = {40228122},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {2022-67013-42820//USDA | National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology/metabolism ; *Symbiosis/physiology ; *Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; *Medicago truncatula/microbiology/metabolism/genetics ; *Plant Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Peptides/metabolism ; Glomeromycota ; Signal Transduction ; Fungi ; },
abstract = {CLAVATA3/EMBRYO SURROUNDING REGION-related (CLE) peptides have emerged as key regulators of plant-microbe interactions, including arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis. Here, we identify Medicago truncatula CLE16 as a positive regulator of AM symbiosis. MtCLE16 is expressed in root cells colonized by AM fungi (AMF) and its overexpression within colonized tissues increases arbuscule abundance by finetuning their growth and lifespan. Functional and transcriptomic analyses reveal that MtCLE16 acts via the M. truncatula pseudokinase CORYNE (MtCRN) and suppresses the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in roots, thereby attenuating immune responses and promoting root colonization by mutualistic AM fungi. Notably, AMF also express MtCLE16-like peptides. We show that the Rhizophagus irregularis MtCLE16-like peptide, RiCLE1, also attenuates ROS and promotes AMF colonization via MtCRN. This finding suggests that RiCLE1 can interfere with the MtCLE16-MtCRN signaling module of host roots to benefit the fungus. Our research uncovers a functional mechanism underpinning cross-kingdom signaling and molecular mimicry in mutualistic plant-microbe interactions.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology/metabolism
*Symbiosis/physiology
*Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
*Medicago truncatula/microbiology/metabolism/genetics
*Plant Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Peptides/metabolism
Glomeromycota
Signal Transduction
Fungi

@article {pmid40227500,
year = {2025},
author = {Broeckhoven, I and Devriese, A and Honnay, O and Merckx, R and Bruno, V},
title = {Impact of agricultural systems on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi community composition in robusta coffee roots in the Democratic Republic of congo.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {35},
number = {2},
pages = {30},
pmid = {40227500},
issn = {1432-1890},
support = {B2/191/P1/COFFEEBRIDGE//Belgian Federal Science Policy Office/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/classification/physiology/genetics/isolation & purification ; Democratic Republic of the Congo ; *Plant Roots/microbiology ; *Agriculture/methods ; *Coffea/microbiology ; Soil Microbiology ; Soil/chemistry ; Biodiversity ; Symbiosis ; Coffee/microbiology ; *Mycobiome ; },
abstract = {Robusta coffee, grown by 25 million farmers across more than 50 countries, plays an important role in smallholder farmers' livelihoods and the economies of many low-income countries. Coffee establishes a mutualistic symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF); however, the impact of agricultural practices and soil characteristics on AMF diversity and community composition is not well understood. To address this, we characterised the AMF community composition of robusta coffee in part of its region of origin, the Democratic Republic of Congo. AMF diversity and community composition were compared between coffee monoculture, agroforestry systems and wild robusta in its native rainforest habitat. Using Illumina sequencing on 304 root samples, we identified 307 AMF operational taxonomic units (OTUs), dominated by the genera Glomus and Acaulospora. OTU richness did not vary across the three studied systems, yet large differences in community composition were found. Many unique OTUs were only observed in the coffee in the rainforest. In general, lower available soil phosphorus (P) and lower soil bulk density increased AMF diversity, yet higher available soil P and pH increased AMF diversity in the wild forest coffee. Shifts in AMF community composition across coffee systems were driven by canopy closure, soil pH, available soil P and soil bulk density. Our study is the first to characterise mycorrhizal communities in wild robusta coffee in its region of origin and shows that even low-input agricultural practices result in major AMF community shifts as compared to a natural baseline.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/classification/physiology/genetics/isolation & purification
Democratic Republic of the Congo
*Plant Roots/microbiology
*Agriculture/methods
*Coffea/microbiology
Soil Microbiology
Soil/chemistry
Biodiversity
Symbiosis
Coffee/microbiology
*Mycobiome

@article {pmid40227227,
year = {2025},
author = {Arai, H and Katsuma, S and Matsuda-Imai, N and Lin, SR and Inoue, MN and Kageyama, D},
title = {Prophage-encoded Hm-oscar gene recapitulates Wolbachia-induced male-killing in the tea tortrix moth Homona magnanima.},
journal = {eLife},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40227227},
issn = {2050-084X},
support = {19J13123//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 21J00895//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 22K14902//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 23H02229//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 24H02293//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 22H00366//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 24H02289//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 21KK0105//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Wolbachia/genetics ; Male ; *Moths/microbiology/physiology/genetics ; *Prophages/genetics ; Female ; Symbiosis ; },
abstract = {Wolbachia are maternally transmitted bacterial symbionts that are ubiquitous among arthropods. They can hijack host reproduction in various ways, including male-killing (MK), where the sons of infected mothers are killed during development. The recent discovery of MK-associated Wolbachia genes, i.e., oscar in Ostrinia moths and wmk in Drosophila flies, stimulates our interest in the diversity and commonality of MK mechanisms, which remain largely unclear. We recently discovered that a Wolbachia symbiont of the moth Homona magnanima carries an MK-associated prophage region encoding homologs of oscar (Hm-oscar) and wmk (wmk-1-4). Here, we investigated the effects of these genes in the native host. Upon transient overexpression, Hm-oscar, but not wmk, induced male lethality in H. magnanima, in contrast to our observations in Drosophila, where the wmk homologs, but not Hm-oscar, killed the males. Hm-oscar disrupted sex determination in male embryos by inducing a female-type doublesex splicing and impaired dosage compensation, recapitulating the Wolbachia phenotype. Cell-based transfection assays confirmed that Hm-oscar suppressed the function of masculinizer, the primary male sex determinant involved in lepidopteran dosage compensation. Our study highlights the conserved roles of oscar homologs in Wolbachia-induced lepidopteran MK and argues that Wolbachia have evolved multiple MK mechanisms in insects.},
}

Animals
*Wolbachia/genetics
Male
*Moths/microbiology/physiology/genetics
*Prophages/genetics
Female
Symbiosis

@article {pmid40225017,
year = {2025},
author = {Wei, T and Zhang, H and Wang, S and Wu, C and Tu, T and Wang, Y and Qian, X},
title = {Divergent altitudinal patterns of arbuscular and ectomycorrhizal fungal communities in a mid-subtropical mountain ecosystem.},
journal = {IMA fungus},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {e140187},
pmid = {40225017},
issn = {2210-6340},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) form ubiquitous symbiotic relationships with plants through co-evolutionary processes, providing multiple benefits for plant growth, productivity, health, and stress mitigation. Mountain ecosystem multifunctionality is significantly influenced by mycorrhizal responses to climate change, highlighting the importance of understanding the complex interactions between these fungi and environmental variables. In this study, we investigated five vegetation zones across an altitudinal gradient (675-2157 m a.s.l.) in Wuyi Mountain, one of the most well-preserved mid-subtropical mountain ecosystems in eastern China. Using high-throughput sequencing, we examined the altitudinal distribution patterns, community assembly mechanisms, and network interactions of soil AMF and EMF. Our analyses demonstrated significant altitudinal variations in the composition and diversity of mycorrhizal fungal communities. AMF richness peaked in the subalpine dwarf forest at intermediate elevations, whereas EMF richness was highest in the low-altitude evergreen broad-leaved forest, showing a marked decrease in the alpine meadow ecosystem. β-diversity decomposition revealed that species turnover constituted the primary mechanism of community differentiation for both fungal types, explaining >56% of the observed variation. Stochastic processes dominated community assembly, with the relative importance of dispersal limitation and drift showing distinct altitudinal patterns. Network analysis indicated that AMF networks reached maximum complexity in evergreen broad-leaved forests, while EMF networks showed similar complexity levels in coniferous forests. Among the examined factors, soil properties emerged as the predominant driver of altitudinal variations in ecosystem multifunctionality, followed by AMF communities and climatic variables. These findings provide critical insights into the ecological functions and environmental adaptations of mycorrhizal fungi, advancing our understanding of their responses to environmental changes in mountain ecosystems and informing evidence-based conservation strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40223278,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Y and Cai, S and Tao, Z and Peng, J and Li, D and Li, L and Cao, X and Jiang, J},
title = {Isolation of Endophytic Fungi and Effects on Secondary Metabolites in Hairy Roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {35},
number = {},
pages = {e2411051},
doi = {10.4014/jmb.2411.11051},
pmid = {40223278},
issn = {1738-8872},
mesh = {*Salvia miltiorrhiza/microbiology/metabolism/growth & development ; *Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism ; *Endophytes/isolation & purification/classification/metabolism/genetics ; *Fungi/isolation & purification/classification/metabolism/genetics ; Benzofurans/metabolism ; Cinnamates/metabolism/analysis ; *Secondary Metabolism ; Depsides/metabolism/analysis ; Polysaccharides/metabolism ; Rosmarinic Acid ; Abietanes/metabolism ; Biomass ; Plant Leaves/microbiology ; Coculture Techniques ; Plant Stems/microbiology ; },
abstract = {The slow growth rate of medicinal plants has made them unable to meet people's needs, and the use of biotechnology to obtain natural products from medicinal plants can alleviate this problem. This study isolated and identified 42 endophytic fungi from the roots, stems, and leaves of Salvia miltiorrhiza, belonging to 13 genera. The endophytic fungi that promote the accumulation of secondary metabolites in the hairy roots of S. miltiorrhiza were screened by co-culture and elicitors preparation. Among them, 15 endophytic fungi presented relatively high crude polysaccharide yields. Co-culture experiments showed that endophytic strains had different effects on the biomass and the accumulation of secondary metabolites in the hairy roots of S. miltiorrhiza, with strain KLBMPSM237 being the most effective. The contents of tanshinone I, salvianolic acid B and rosmarinic acid in the hairy roots of S. miltiorrhiza were significantly increased by KLBMPSM237 polysaccharide inducers at different concentrations. This study provides new microbial resources and technical methods for increasing the natural products in hairy roots of S. miltiorrhiza.},
}

*Salvia miltiorrhiza/microbiology/metabolism/growth & development
*Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism
*Endophytes/isolation & purification/classification/metabolism/genetics
*Fungi/isolation & purification/classification/metabolism/genetics
Benzofurans/metabolism
Cinnamates/metabolism/analysis
*Secondary Metabolism
Depsides/metabolism/analysis
Polysaccharides/metabolism
Rosmarinic Acid
Abietanes/metabolism
Biomass
Plant Leaves/microbiology
Coculture Techniques
Plant Stems/microbiology

@article {pmid40223234,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, R and Wang, Y and Fu, S and Liao, S and Jiang, T and Zhou, B},
title = {Combining whole genome and transcriptome sequencing to analyze the pathogenic mechanism of Diplodia sapinea blight in Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica Litv.},
journal = {Virulence},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {2490216},
doi = {10.1080/21505594.2025.2490216},
pmid = {40223234},
issn = {2150-5608},
mesh = {*Plant Diseases/microbiology ; *Ascomycota/genetics/pathogenicity ; *Pinus sylvestris/microbiology ; *Transcriptome ; Gene Expression Profiling ; *Genome, Fungal ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; Protein Interaction Maps ; Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal ; },
abstract = {Diplodia sapinea (= Sphaeropsis sapinea) is an opportunistic pathogen that usually lives in symbiosis (the coexistence of dissimilar organisms) with its host and can cause disease under extreme climatic or physiological stress. In this study, we generated a high-quality genome map of D. sapinea using PacBio Circular Consensus Sequencing (CCS) technology and analysed the key disease-causing genes of D. sapinea by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). In the study, a number of cell wall degrading enzyme genes were identified to be up-regulated during pathogen infection, which may be involved in biotic stress response in P. sylvestris var. mongolica Litv. It was also found that the expression of antioxidant-related genes, such as those involved in carotenoid biosynthesis, ascorbate and glutathione metabolism, was up-regulated in the P. s. var. mongolica Litv. after fungus infection. Differently expressed genes (DEGs) -based protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed that included 163 pairs of significantly positively correlated proteins, forming three highly interacting gene clusters, and the PPI network was predicted to be associated with the replication and propagation processes of the fungus. These results provide important information for understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of Diplodia tip blight and developing control strategies in P. s. var. mongolica Litv.},
}

*Plant Diseases/microbiology
*Ascomycota/genetics/pathogenicity
*Pinus sylvestris/microbiology
*Transcriptome
Gene Expression Profiling
*Genome, Fungal
Whole Genome Sequencing
Protein Interaction Maps
Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal

@article {pmid40222783,
year = {2025},
author = {Azarfarin, M and Moradikor, N and Salatin, S and Sarailoo, M and Dadkhah, M},
title = {Stress-related neurodegenerative diseases: Molecular mechanisms implicated in neurodegeneration and therapeutic strategies.},
journal = {Progress in brain research},
volume = {291},
number = {},
pages = {253-288},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pbr.2025.01.011},
pmid = {40222783},
issn = {1875-7855},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases/metabolism/therapy/etiology ; *Oxidative Stress/physiology ; Animals ; *Stress, Psychological/complications/metabolism ; Mitochondria/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Chronic stress is a striking cause of major neurodegenerative diseases disorders (NDDs). These diseases share several common mechanisms regarding to disease pathology, in spite of they have various properties and clinical manifestations. NDDs are defined by progressive cognitive decline, and stress contribute to the promotion and progression of disease. In addition, various pathways such as production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial dysfunction, and neurodegeneration are the main crucial hallmarks to develop common NDDs, resulting in neuronal cell death. Although the exact mechanisms of NDDs are underexplored, the potential neuroprotective critical role of such therapies in neuronal loss the treatment of NDDs are not clear. In this regard, researchers investigate the neuroprotective effects of targeting underlying cascade to introduce a promising therapeutic option to NDDs. Herein, we provide an overview of the role of non-pharmacological treatments against oxidative stress, mitochondrial symbiosis, and neuroinflammation in NDDs, mainly discussing the music, diet, and exercise effects of targeting pathways.},
}

Humans
*Neurodegenerative Diseases/metabolism/therapy/etiology
*Oxidative Stress/physiology
Animals
*Stress, Psychological/complications/metabolism
Mitochondria/metabolism

@article {pmid40222548,
year = {2025},
author = {Watanabe, Y and Kumeta, H and Watanabe, S},
title = {Structural basis for phosphatidylcholine synthesis by bacterial phospholipid N-methyltransferases.},
journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108507},
doi = {10.1016/j.jbc.2025.108507},
pmid = {40222548},
issn = {1083-351X},
abstract = {In phosphatidylcholine (PC)-containing bacteria, PC is synthesized by phospholipid N-methyltransferases (Pmts) and plays an important role in the interactions between symbiotic and pathogenic bacteria and their eukaryotic host cells. Pmts catalyze the S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) dependent three methylation reactions of the head group of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) to form PC through monomethyl PE and dimethyl PE. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying PC biosynthesis by PmtA remain largely unclear, owing to the lack of structural information. Here, we determined the crystal structures of Agrobacterium tumefaciens Pmt (AtPmtA) in complex with S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) or 5'-methylthioadenosine. Crystal structures and NMR analysis revealed the binding mode of AtPmtA to SAH in solution. Structure-based mutational analyses showed that a conserved tyrosine residue in the substrate-binding groove is involved in methylation. Furthermore, we showed that differences in substrate specificity among Pmt homologs were determined by whether the amino acid residues comprising the substrate-binding groove were isoleucine or phenylalanine. These findings provide a structural basis for understanding the mechanisms underlying Pmts-mediated PC biosynthesis.},
}

@article {pmid40222514,
year = {2025},
author = {Xie, D and Zhang, R and Huang, J and Fei, Z and Wang, L and Zhao, J and Si, J and Jin, P},
title = {Efficient production, structural characterization and bioactivity of an extracellular polysaccharide from Grifola frondosa endophytic Burkholderia sp.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {309},
number = {Pt 3},
pages = {143090},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.143090},
pmid = {40222514},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {Endophytic bacteria Burkholderia sp. (GFB) was firstly identified and isolated from Grifola frondosa. An exopolysaccharide (GFB-MP) of GFB strain was obtained following fermentation optimization, resulting in a maximum yield of 11.36 g/L in 5 L fed-batch fermentation. GFB-MP (MW 432.05 kDa) comprised mainly galactose, glucose, and mannose with a ratio of 39.52:14.22:46.26, indicating a mannose-enriched polysaccharide. Methylation and NMR analysis revealed that GFB-MP consisted of the main chain that was repeat units →4)-α-D-Glcp-(1 → bonded →6)-β-D-Galp-1 → repeat units and three O-6-linked branched chains. Antibacterial activity suggested that GFB-MP can effectively inhibit food pathogen bacteria Listeria and Escherichia coli with inhibition ratios of 73.4 % and 81.6 %, respectively. In addition, GFB-MP exhibited remarkable growth-promoting activity on probiotics with >50 % increments of cell growth. This study demonstrates that GFB-MP has the potential for health-beneficial food. Knowledge of endophyte polysaccharides in G. frondosa is important to understand their physiological activities and symbiotic interactions.},
}

@article {pmid40222493,
year = {2025},
author = {Shi, Y and Xu, C and Xu, K and Chen, C and Li, A and Ji, B},
title = {Metabolic responses of microalgal-bacterial granular sludge to enrofloxacin and sulfamethoxazole exposure.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {132516},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.132516},
pmid = {40222493},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {This study examined the removal performance and responses of the microalgal-bacterial granular sludge (MBGS) system to enrofloxacin (ENR), sulfamethoxazole (SMX), and their combination. Results showed that MBGS could achieve 73.2 % and 64.0 % removal of ENR and SMX at 1 mg/L of mixed antibiotics, while ENR severely affected organics removal (from 84.5 % to 74.7 %). Antibiotic exposure could raise reactive oxygen species levels, which disrupted cellular structures and energy metabolism. ENR had the most significant disruptive effect, markedly reducing the abundance of Oscillatoriales and impairing their interactions with other taxa. In contrast, Xanthomonadales and Micrococcales were essential for sustaining energy metabolism under ENR stress, while Hyphomicrobiales demonstrated strong adaptability to these antibiotics. Notably, the combination of ENR and SMX mitigated oxidative stress, facilitating the growth of Rhodospirillales and Chloroflexales. These findings provide insight into microbial adaptation mechanisms under antibiotic pressure and offer guidance for optimizing wastewater treatment strategies in antibiotic-polluted environments.},
}

@article {pmid40222285,
year = {2025},
author = {Shen, D and Su, L and Ding, H and Long, Y and Hui, C},
title = {Study on the growth and decline patterns and environmental drivers of pathogens during the stabilization process of simulated landfilling municipal solid waste.},
journal = {Waste management (New York, N.Y.)},
volume = {201},
number = {},
pages = {114791},
doi = {10.1016/j.wasman.2025.114791},
pmid = {40222285},
issn = {1879-2456},
abstract = {Waste and leachate in landfills are substantial reservoirs of pathogens, however information about the risk of pathogen contamination during the stabilization process under different landfill conditions is very limited. In this study, dynamic changes of culturable pathogens, bacteria community, and human bacterial pathogens (HBPs) during the stabilization process under different landfill conditions were investigated, and the environmental drivers were explored. Results showed that total coliforms, Enterococcus, and Staphylococcus aureus were the dominant pathogens detected in waste and leachate samples. During the landfill stabilization process, the concentration of culturable pathogens peaked at the hydrolysis-acidification stage (3.6 × 10[5] CFU·g[-1]) in the anaerobic condition, fluctuated from 4.18 × 10[4] to 5.35 × 10[5] CFU·g[-1] in the anaerobic leachate-recirculation condition, and kept rising (from 4.18 × 10[4] to 2.12 × 10[6] CFU·g[-1]) in the micro-aerobic condition. Moreover, HBPs abundance and diversity in the waste and leachate under micro-aerobic conditions were higher than those under the other two conditions, suggesting a higher risk of pathogen contamination. Sulfate and pH were significantly (p < 0.05) correlated with the composition of bacterial communities and HBPs, likely serving as the major environmental driving factors. Additionally, the interactions between HBPs and functional bacterial groups tended towards cooperative symbiotic relationships, with hydrolytic-acidogenic bacteria promoting the growth and proliferation of most pathogens. These findings will help to understand the changes and environmental drivers of pathogens during landfill stabilization, which will provide a theoretical basis for the risk prevention and control of pathogens in waste disposal.},
}

@article {pmid40221798,
year = {2025},
author = {Chiu, L and Guo, JL and Li, HW and Chang, HJ and Yang, SH and Dufour, S and Chang, CF and Tseng, YC and Wu, GC},
title = {Microbial diversity and pigment synthesis in the accessory nidamental gland: species-specific and color-associated patterns in bigfin reef squid (Sepioteuthis lessoniana).},
journal = {Animal microbiome},
volume = {7},
number = {1},
pages = {36},
pmid = {40221798},
issn = {2524-4671},
support = {The Featured Areas Research Center Program within the framework of the Higher Education Sprout Project//Ministry of Education/ ; NSTC 111-2326-B-019-001-MY3//National Science and Technology Council/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: In certain cephalopod species, two distinct symbiotic organs host large populations of microorganisms: the light organ, regulated by the daily cycle, and the accessory nidamental gland (ANG), regulated by the female reproductive cycle. While host-microbiota interactions in the light organ of the bobtail squid are well understood, the dynamics within the ANG remain largely unexplored. This study uses the bigfin reef squid, Sepioteuthis lessoniana, as a model to investigate the microbiomes associated with specific regions of the ANG, capitalizing on its relatively large gland size compared to the bobtail squid. Our goal was to characterize species-specific microbiomes in the ANG and explore how pigmented region-dependent microbes contribute to reproductive fitness in bigfin reef squid.

RESULTS: Histological results indicate that four types of epithelial cells were observed in the secondary tubules of inner ANG layer. Using an amplicon-based approach, we found that Alphaproteobacteria were highly abundant in different cephalopod species. Beta diversity analyses revealed significant interspecies differences in microbiomes, while alpha diversity showed that the bigfin reef squid harbored a richer bacterial community than the other two species. Notably, pigmented regions of the ANG exhibited lower microbial diversity compared to whole ANG tissues, with Alphaproteobacteria significantly enriched in these regions. Hyphomicrobiaceae (Alphaproteobacteria) were unique to the orange regions, while Fodinicurvataceae (Alphaproteobacteria) and Flavobacteriaceae (Bacteroidia) were exclusive to the white regions. qPCR results showed higher transcription levels of immune response-associated genes in the orange region compared to other pigmented regions, suggesting localized immune interactions.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that Alphaproteobacteria, particularly the Hyphomicrobiaceae clade, may correlated to the synthesis orange pigmentation in the ANG of the bigfin reef squid. The roles of Hyphomicrobiaceae in ANG symbiosis and reproductive fitness still needs further investigation. With this knowledge, we propose further investigations using in situ hybridization to detect host-expressed genes and pigmented region-dependent bacteria as markers. This approach will facilitate the study of localized host-microbiota interactions in distinct pigmented regions of the ANG, providing deeper insights into the mechanism of host-microbe communication.},
}

@article {pmid40220671,
year = {2025},
author = {Gu, L and Li, S and Zhou, L and Yuan, F and Zhang, T and Wang, Y and Liu, T and Li, M and Zhang, Z and Guo, X},
title = {Ecophysiological and transcriptional landscapes of arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi enhancing yield, quality, and stalk rot resistance in Anoectochilus roxburghii.},
journal = {Plant physiology and biochemistry : PPB},
volume = {223},
number = {},
pages = {109885},
doi = {10.1016/j.plaphy.2025.109885},
pmid = {40220671},
issn = {1873-2690},
abstract = {Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lindl. (A. roxburghii) is an increasingly popular medicinal herb. Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) fungi, known for their symbiotic relationships with plant roots, enhance nutrient uptake and disease resistance in host plants. However, their specific regulatory mechanisms in A. roxburghii are not fully understood. In this study, Fujian A. roxburghii was inoculated with the AM fungus Glomus intraradices, and successful root colonization was observed. Following AM fungal colonization, there was a significant upregulation of photosynthesis-related genes in the stems, accompanied by improved canopy phenotypes and root architecture. Consequently, AM-inoculated plants exhibited increased fresh and dry biomass, as well as elevated levels of polysaccharides and flavonoids. Additionally, the incidence of Fusarium oxysporum-induced stalk rot was reduced in AM-inoculated plants. Analysis of defense-related enzymes indicated that AM-inoculated plants exhibited a rapid and robust response to pathogen infection, mitigating oxidative stress. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant upregulation of genes associated "Fatty acid degradation", "MAPK signaling pathway-plant", and "Plant-pathogen interaction", suggesting their involvement in enhanced disease resistance. A regulatory network centered on ACX1 and calmodulin, involving multiple transcription factors such as WRKY, bHLH, ERF, NAC, and HSF, was implicated in defense responses. These findings demonstrated the beneficial effects of AM fungi on yield, quality, and disease resistance in A. roxburghii, providing a theoretical foundation for its cultivation and genetic improvement.},
}

@article {pmid40220559,
year = {2025},
author = {Vaccaro, F and Bettini, PP and Courty, PE and Mengoni, A and Passeri, I and Sarrocco, S and Fagorzi, C},
title = {Toward deciphering the molecular dialogue in the rhizomicrobiota: Transcriptomic profiling of Trichoderma in rhizobia interaction.},
journal = {Microbiological research},
volume = {297},
number = {},
pages = {128180},
doi = {10.1016/j.micres.2025.128180},
pmid = {40220559},
issn = {1618-0623},
abstract = {Microbial interactions are of key importance for the emergent properties of microbiota and ecosystems, playing a pivotal role in plant health, growth, and productivity. This study explores the interactions between soil fungi and rhizosphere bacteria, focusing specifically on fungi belonging to the genus Trichoderma and the plant symbiotic bacterium Sinorhizobium meliloti. Our aim is to provide evidence of the impact of different strains of the same bacterial species on the fungus. By analysing the effects of four S. meliloti strains on gene expression of T. velutinum, we revealed the presence of several differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (from 139 to 254 genes) indicating a remodelling of its metabolism and growth. Remarkably, the majority of the DEGs (∼90 %) could not be assigned to function, indicating the presence of a large genetic "unknown space" potentially involved in fungal-bacterial interactions. Moreover, results indicated that transcriptomic profiles of T. velutinum significantly changed with respect to the four S. meliloti strains, suggesting the ability of the fungus to perceive the presence of specific bacterial strains. Our study emphasizes that strain specificity of microbial interactions could play crucial role in shaping microbiota functions, and highlights their potential impact on the success of bioinoculants.},
}

@article {pmid40220175,
year = {2025},
author = {Mazumder, S and Bhattacharya, D and Lahiri, D and Nag, M},
title = {Rhizobacteria and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) Community in Growth Management and Mitigating Stress in Millets: A Plant-Soil Microbe Symbiotic Relationship.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {82},
number = {6},
pages = {242},
pmid = {40220175},
issn = {1432-0991},
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Symbiosis ; Rhizosphere ; Stress, Physiological ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; Bacteria/classification/metabolism/genetics ; },
abstract = {Millets, commonly referred to as the "future crop," provide a practical solution for addressing hunger and reducing the impact of climate change. The nutritional and physiological well-being of soil is crucial for the survival and resilience of plants while countering environmental stressors, both abiotic and biotic, that arise from the current climate change scenario. The health and production of millet are directly influenced by the soil microbial community. Millets have several plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria such as Pseudomonas, Azotobacter, Bacillus, Rhizobium, and fungi like Penicillium sp., that increase nutrient uptake, growth, and productivity and protect against abiotic and biotic stressors. Rhizobacteria enhance plant productivity by many mechanisms, including the release of plant hormones and secondary metabolic compounds, the conversion of nutrients into soluble forms, the ability to fix nitrogen, and the provision of resistance to both biotic and abiotic stresses. The microbial populations in the rhizosphere have a significant impact on the growth and production of millet such as enhancing soil fertility and plant nourishment. Additionally, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi invade the roots of millets. The taxon Glomus is the most prevalent in association with millet plant soil, followed by Acaulospora, Funneliformis, and Rhizophagus. The symbiotic relationship between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and millet plants improves plant growth and nutrient absorption under diverse soil and environmental circumstances, including challenging abiotic factors like drought and salinity.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Soil Microbiology
*Symbiosis
Rhizosphere
Stress, Physiological
Plant Roots/microbiology
Bacteria/classification/metabolism/genetics

@article {pmid40219166,
year = {2025},
author = {Ji, Z and Dong, Q and Yang, R and Qin, W and Peng, Y and Jia, Y},
title = {From Ordinary to Extraordinary: The Crucial Role of Common Species in Desert Plant Community Stability with Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) Fungi Under Increased Precipitation.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40219166},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {32101304//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32460321//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 42207372//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Climate change is altering precipitation patterns in Central Asia's arid zones, destabilizing desert ecosystems. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, key soil microorganisms forming symbiosis with most plants, critically maintain ecosystem stability, yet their mechanisms in regulating individual plant species to sustain community stability remain unclear. We conducted a 5-year in situ experiment in the Gurbantunggut Desert, testing how AM fungi influence desert plant community stability under increased precipitation. Using a randomized block design with three treatments-control (CK), increased precipitation (W), and precipitation with Benomyl fungicide (BW)-we monitored plant community dynamics. We discovered that both increased precipitation and AM fungi altered plant community structure without affecting diversity. Precipitation boosted aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP) and density, enhancing community stability via dominant species (e.g., Meniocus linifolius), supporting the mass ratio hypothesis. AM fungi further stabilized the community by increasing ANPP and enhancing the common species stability under increased precipitation, while the contribution of rare species was also non-negligible, aligning with the subordinate insurance hypothesis. Overall, our study elucidates how increased precipitation and AM fungi regulate plant community stability at the species level. Specifically, it overcomes key gaps by revealing AM fungi's pivotal role in stabilizing communities through sustaining common species stability.},
}

@article {pmid40219157,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, M and Shi, C and Wang, C and Yao, Y and He, J},
title = {Metabolic Regulation and Saline-Alkali Stress Response in Novel Symbionts of Epichloë bromicola-Bromus inermis.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40219157},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {23XJTRZW07//Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Soil and Plant Ecological Processes/ ; },
abstract = {Epichloë endophytic fungi are important microbial resources in agriculture and animal husbandry. Because of their stable symbiosis, species transmission, and positive effects on host plants, the use of endophytic fungi in grass breeding is of great significance. In this study, six inoculation methods were used, including the sterile seedling slit inoculation method, sterile seedling cut inoculation method, sterile seedling injection inoculation method, seed soaking inoculation method, seed piercing and then soaking inoculation method, and seed slit inoculation method. Spectrometry was used to construct new symbionts, and Liquid Chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to analyze the effects of endophytic fungi on the metabolism of new hosts. The physiological response of the new symbionts to salt and alkali stress was studied using a pot experiment. The results were as follows: In this study, Epichloë bromicola was successfully inoculated into Bromus inermis via the sterile seedling slit inoculation method, and new symbionts (EI) were obtained; the vaccination rate was 2.1%. Metabolites up-regulated by EI are significantly enriched in citrate cycle and ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, suggesting that the symbiosis of endophytic fungi indirectly triggers the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through multiple metabolic pathways. The saline-alkali stress test showed that the host antioxidant system was active after inoculation, and the total antioxidant capacity was significantly increased compared with non-symbionts (EF) under mild stress (p < 0.05), which provided important clues to reveal the complex mechanism of plant-fungus symbiosis. This study provides practical guidance and a theoretical basis for plant adaptation under climate change, health management of grass seeds, and soil improvement through endophytic fungi.},
}

@article {pmid40219154,
year = {2025},
author = {Utgés-Minguell, L and Sierras-Serra, N and Marín, C and Pintó-Marijuan, M},
title = {Enhanced Production by Terra-Sorb[®] Symbiotic Biostimulant in Two Model Species Under Nitrogen Stress.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40219154},
issn = {2223-7747},
abstract = {The increasing soil pollution has accelerated the implementation of new agricultural regulations that significantly limit the use of synthetic nitrogen (N) fertilizers. Consequently, plants are likely to experience nutrient stress, leading to decreased productivity and potential threats to food security. To address these critical challenges, microbial-based biostimulant (BS) products, which utilize metabolites from microorganisms, offer a sustainable and eco-friendly solution to mitigate plant nutrient stress. This study evaluated the effects of the radicular application of a microbial-based BS containing L-α-amino acids on lettuce and pepper crops under two nitrogen regimes: optimal N availability and N stress (NS). Various parameters, including growth, production, soluble proteins, photosynthetic pigment content, and oxidative stress markers, were assessed. Under optimal N conditions, BS application enhanced commercial biomass in lettuce and vegetative biomass in pepper, indicating that BSs can reduce the need for nitrate uptake and endogenous amino acid synthesis, thereby conserving energy for other physiological processes. Despite BS application, NS conditions significantly reduced vegetative and reproductive growth in both species. However, BS treatment in pepper plants increased chloroplast pigments, improving light absorption and photosynthetic efficiency. The reduction in the carotenoid/chlorophyll ratio suggests efficient N allocation to growth and production. Thus, BS application proved effective in mitigating NS in pepper plants, enhancing pepper production, while under optimal conditions, it improved lettuce yield, particularly commercial biomass. These findings underscore the potential of symbiotic microbial-based BSs as a promising tool for sustainable agriculture under reduced N availability.},
}

@article {pmid40219116,
year = {2025},
author = {Catania, MDV and Albornoz, PL and Rausch, AO and Ledesma, TM and Dong, S and Cai, Y and Zeng, Y and Liu, Y and Suárez, GM and Moreno, JE},
title = {Discovery of Arbuscular Mycorrhizae in Mosses of the Pottiaceae Family from the Chaco Serrano (Tucumán, Argentina).},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40219116},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {PICT2018-0650 and PICT2020-0110//AGENCIA I+D+I/ ; 50620190100039LI//Universidad Nacional del Litoral/ ; 11220220100177CO//CONICET/ ; G744//Universidad Nacional de Tucumán/ ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are symbiotic fungi that associate with the vast majority of terrestrial plants. Among non-vascular plants, while AMF associations are well-documented in liverworts and hornworts, there is a broad consensus that symbiotic associations do not occur in mosses. Here, we report the presence of AMF in the living material of mosses found in Chaco Serrano (Tucumán, Argentina). We found all characteristic structures of AMF when establishing an intimate connection with two moss species of Pottiaceae (Bryophyta). While Gertrudiella uncinicoma exhibited AMF with both Arum- and Paris-type morphologies, Pleurochaete luteola only displayed an Arum-type morphology. Plant tissue samples were subjected to high-throughput sequencing for AMF identification. We determined that Rhizophagus irregularis was a clear dominant species in both moss species, with Glomus sp. also being present as a less abundant element. In addition, we also reported the presence of vesicles, arbuscules, and spores adhered to the hyphae and the presence of septate endophytes. This finding expands our understanding of the interactions between AMF and non-vascular plants and prompt us to further characterize this interaction by considering the diversity of mycorrhizal associations with concurrent implications for the ecology of mosses and the functionality of the ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid40218980,
year = {2025},
author = {Slöcker-Barrio, M and López-Herce Cid, J and Solana-García, MJ},
title = {The Interplay Between Nutrition and Microbiota and the Role of Probiotics and Symbiotics in Pediatric Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {17},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40218980},
issn = {2072-6643},
mesh = {Humans ; *Probiotics/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; Child ; *Communicable Diseases/microbiology/therapy/immunology ; Prebiotics/administration & dosage ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Dietary Supplements ; *Nutritional Status ; *Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena ; Immunocompromised Host ; },
abstract = {The interplay between nutrition and infectious diseases has been a central theme in health sciences for the last decades due to its great impact on the pediatric population, especially in immunocompromised patients and critically ill children. As conventional treatment and the development of antimicrobials for most infections standard treatment is either limited or not possible, alternative treatment options should be explored. Recent research shows that early enteral nutrition and nutritional supplements (such as probiotics and symbiotics) could have a pivotal role in promoting a healthy microbiome and subsequently preventing and improving outcomes for certain pediatric infectious diseases. However, understanding the specific mechanism of action and tailoring nutritional interventions remains a significant challenge. The optimal dose range for different probiotic strains and prebiotics and the most effective combination for each treatment indication needs further investigation and is yet to be defined. Additionally, in the era of personalized medicine, goal- and patient-directed treatment are key to optimizing and improving outcomes and minimizing potential complications and side effects, especially in complex and immunocompromised patients. The main objectives of this narrative review are 1. to explore the relationship and the complex interactions between microbiota and the human immune system; 2. to describe the influence of nutrition on infectious diseases; 3. to evaluate the impact of supplementation with probiotics and symbiotics in the prevention and treatment of the most relevant infections in children; and 4. to identify knowledge gaps and potential research priorities regarding the use of these supplements in pediatric patients.},
}

Humans
*Probiotics/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
Child
*Communicable Diseases/microbiology/therapy/immunology
Prebiotics/administration & dosage
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Dietary Supplements
*Nutritional Status
*Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
Immunocompromised Host

@article {pmid40218328,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Z and Wang, Y and He, Z and Wu, S and Wang, S and Zhao, N and Zhu, W and Jiang, J and Wang, S},
title = {Research Status and Prospect of Amphibian Symbiotic Microbiota.},
journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ani15070934},
pmid = {40218328},
issn = {2076-2615},
support = {2022M723135//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; 31901120 and 31700320//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Amphibians are the most severely threatened vertebrate group in terms of biodiversity. The microbiota that coexist in a mutualistic relationship with amphibians play a crucial role in shaping their health status, reproductive efficiency, and environmental adaptability. Understanding the relationship between amphibians and microbiota is vital for elucidating the causes of amphibian diseases and developing effective prevention and control techniques, which in turn is significant for enhancing the effectiveness of amphibian diversity conservation. The main findings of this article are as follows: Firstly, it provides an overview of the systematic assessment and analysis methods regarding the importance of amphibians and their symbiotic microbiota, detailing the primary research techniques currently employed. Secondly, it discusses the impacts of environmental and biological factors on the characteristics of amphibian symbiotic microbial communities, including dimensions such as altitude, temperature fluctuations, and host dietary habits. Finally, the future directions of research on amphibian symbiotic microbiota are examined, with five recommendations presented: (1) Establish a comprehensive sample library and database of amphibians and their symbiotic microbiota to create a solid foundation for scientific research. (2) Explore the coevolutionary paths between amphibians and symbiotic microbiota to clarify the dynamic evolutionary patterns and principles of their interactions. (3) Strengthen research on specific areas of amphibians, especially the microbial communities in the oral cavity and cloaca. (4) Enhance research on the symbiotic microbiota of the Gymnophiona. (5) Strengthen international cooperation to build cross-border research platforms and jointly promote the rapid development of global amphibian symbiotic microbiology. This article summarizes the current research progress on the interaction between amphibians and their symbiotic microbiota (not necessarily mutualistic). It discusses the conservation of amphibian biodiversity from the perspective of their symbiotic microbial communities and provides a forward-looking analysis of future research directions. It aims to provide rich background information for understanding the complexity of this symbiotic system, while also having significant value in enhancing the effectiveness of amphibian biodiversity conservation.},
}

@article {pmid40212385,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, X and Deng, B and Lu, S and Wang, C and Liang, Y and Liu, S},
title = {Differences in rhizospheric microbial communities between cultivated and wild endangered Glyptostrobus pensilis.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1548836},
pmid = {40212385},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Glyptostrobus pensilis is an endangered species belonging to the Cupressaceae family. The comprehensive examination of soil characteristics and rhizosphere microbial communities is vital for conservation efforts, as it provides insights into the necessary environmental conditions for safeguarding and ensuring the viability of rare and endangered species. In this study, the diversity and composition of bacterial and fungal communities were compared in the roots and rhizosphere soils of cultivated and wild G. pensilis in Guangxi, China. The results revealed that, at the phylum level, the rhizosphere of cultivated G. pensilis was significantly enriched with Verrucomicrobiota, Acidobacteriota, Glomeromycota, and Chloroflexi, while wild G. pensilis was significantly enriched with Planctomycetota, Basidiomycota, and Ascomycota. Symbiotic network analysis indicated that the bacterial network in the cultivated G. pensilis rhizosphere had higher edge values, average degree, clustering coefficient, and network density, while the fungal network in the wild G. pensilis rhizosphere had higher node values, edge values, average degree, and clustering coefficient. Moreover, functional prediction results suggested that bacteria in cultivated G. pensilis showed higher metabolic activity, with fungi primarily acted as saprotrophs and symbionts. In contrast, bacteria in wild G. pensilis displayed lower metabolic activity, with fungi predominantly functioning as saprotrophs. The analysis linking rhizospheric microbial diversity to soil environmental factors showed a closer association for the wild G. pensilis microbial community, suggesting a stronger influence of soil environmental factors. The Random Forest (RF) highlighted that the total phosphorus and total potassium levels were key influencing factors for rhizospheric microbes in cultivated G. pensilis, while available potassium levels were crucial for those in wild G. pensilis. These differences underscore the significant strategies for G. pensilis in adapting to different habitats, which may be intricately linked to land management practices and soil environmental factors. Among these, phosphorus and potassium are significantly associated with the rhizosphere microorganisms of G. pensilis. Therefore, continuous monitoring of nutrient availability and regular supplementation of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers in the rhizosphere are recommended during the cultivation and ex-situ conservation of G. pensilis.},
}

@article {pmid40212382,
year = {2025},
author = {Cheng, Y and Jiang, X and He, X and Wu, Z and Lv, Q and Zhao, S and Zhang, X and Wang, S and He, H and Liu, J},
title = {Bacillus velezensis 20507 promotes symbiosis between Bradyrhizobium japonicum USDA110 and soybean by secreting flavonoids.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1572568},
pmid = {40212382},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: While co-inoculation with rhizobia and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can enhance soybean growth and nodulation, the interaction mechanisms between Bacillus velezensis 20507 and Bradyrhizobium japonicum USDA110 under varying nitrogen (N) supply levels (0-10 mmol/L) remain unclear. This study investigates how their synergistic interactions influence soybean nitrogen content per plant and molecular pathways.

METHODS: Soybean plants were co-inoculated with B. velezensis and B. japonicum across four N levels. Nodulation, plant growth, physiology, and N content were quantified. Transcriptome sequencing of soybean roots under N deficiency compared single and co-inoculation treatments. Flavonoids in B. velezensis fermentation broth were identified via mass spectrometry, and rutin's regulatory effects on B. japonicum nodulation genes (NodD1/NodD2) were tested in coculture.

RESULTS: Co-inoculation significantly increased nodulation, biomass, and N content per plant compared to single inoculations across all N levels. Under N deficiency, co-inoculation induced 5,367 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment in phenylpropanoid (ko00940) and flavonoid biosynthesis (ko00941). B. velezensis produced 29 flavonoids and 4 isoflavonoids (including rutin). Rutin (5-10 mg/L) upregulated NodD1 and suppressed NodD2 in B. japonicum.

DISCUSSION: B. velezensis enhances B. japonicum-soybean symbiosis via flavonoid secretion, particularly rutin, which modulates nodulation gene expression. This metabiotic interaction improves soybean N assimilation and growth, even under low N conditions. The findings provide a foundation for designing composite inoculants to optimize soybean yield and nitrogen-use efficiency.},
}

@article {pmid40211145,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, X and Wang, Z and Li, J and Struik, PC and Jiang, S and Jin, K and Mu, H},
title = {How do arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi enhance drought resistance of Leymus chinensis?.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {453},
pmid = {40211145},
issn = {1471-2229},
support = {32071861//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Droughts ; *Poaceae/microbiology/physiology/growth & development ; Symbiosis ; *Glomeromycota/physiology ; Stress, Physiological ; Drought Resistance ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Leymus chinensis is a vital, dominant grass species in Eurasian temperate grasslands, including the Inner Mongolian steppe. L. chinensis exhibits enhanced drought tolerance through symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The physiological mechanisms behind this drought resistance need to be unraveled. A pot experiment was conducted with four inoculation treatments (inoculation with Funneliformis mosseae, with Claroideoglomus etunicatum, or with both, and no inoculation) and three drought treatments (no drought (75.00% field capacity), mild drought (56.25% field capacity), severe drought (37.50% field capacity)) to analyze how AMF enhance drought resistance of L. chinensis.

RESULTS: The results showed that drought stress inhibited the growth of L. chinensis, depending on its intensity, whereas AMF inoculation significantly improved growth and alleviated the effects of drought stress. Regardless of drought conditions, AMF inoculation significantly enhanced key biochemistry parameters, including soluble sugar concentration and antioxidant enzyme activities, ultimately promoting plant productivity. Structural equation models (SEMs) further showed that the increase in biomass of L. chinensis inoculated with AMF during mild drought was primarily due to reduced catalase activity and increased cytokinin concentration by increased soluble sugar concentration. However, under severe drought, the increase in biomass of L. chinensis inoculated with AMF was associated with increased soluble sugar concentration caused by increased peroxidase activity and reduced cytokinin concentration.

CONCLUSIONS: The mechanisms by which AMF enhance the drought resistance of L. chinensis vary depending on the severity of drought. AMF increase the soluble sugar concentration by enhancing photosynthetic activity to improve drought resistance under mild drought. Under severe drought conditions, AMF enhance the concentration of soluble sugars in L. chinensis by further activating the expression of antioxidant enzyme genes, thereby improving its drought resistance. Additionally, C. etunicatum maintains high ectomycelium by requiring less carbon sources to efficiently absorb the residual soil moisture under severe drought, thus superiorly enhancing the drought resistance of L. chinensis. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the application of AMF fertilizer to improve the productivity of L. chinensis in arid grasslands.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Droughts
*Poaceae/microbiology/physiology/growth & development
Symbiosis
*Glomeromycota/physiology
Stress, Physiological
Drought Resistance

@article {pmid40210669,
year = {2025},
author = {Mocăniță, M and Martz, K and D'Costa, VM},
title = {Characterizing host-microbe interactions with bacterial effector proteins using proximity-dependent biotin identification (BioID).},
journal = {Communications biology},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
pages = {597},
pmid = {40210669},
issn = {2399-3642},
support = {DGECR-2019-00088//Gouvernement du Canada | Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (Conseil de Recherches en Sciences Naturelles et en Génie du Canada)/ ; },
mesh = {*Bacterial Proteins/metabolism ; *Biotin/metabolism ; Humans ; *Host Microbial Interactions ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions ; *Bacteria/metabolism/pathogenicity ; *Virulence Factors/metabolism ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Bacterial pathogens have evolved diverse strategies to manipulate host cells to establish infection. At a molecular level, this is often mediated by virulence factors that are secreted into host cells (herein referred to as effectors), which target host cellular pathways by initiating host-pathogen protein-protein interactions that alter cellular function in the host. By establishing this network of host-pathogen protein-protein interactions, pathogenic bacteria modulate and hijack host cell processes for the benefit of the pathogen, ultimately promoting survival, replication, and cell-to-cell spread within the host. Effector proteins also mediate diverse host-microbe interactions in nature, contributing to symbiotic relationships spanning from mutualism to commensalism to parasitism. While effector proteins play crucial roles in nature, molecular properties such as the transient nature of the underlying protein-protein interactions and their affinity for targeting host biological membranes often presents challenges to elucidating host targets and mechanism of action. Proximity-dependent biotin identification (termed BioID) has proven to be a valuable tool in the field of cell biology to identify candidate protein-protein interactions in eukaryotic cells, yet has remained relatively underexploited by bacterial pathogenesis researchers. Here, we discuss bacterial effector function at a molecular level, and challenges presented by traditional approaches to host target identification. We highlight the BioID approach and its potential strengths in the context of identifying host-pathogen protein-protein interactions, and explore BioID's implementation to study host-microbe interactions mediated by bacteria. Collectively, BioID represents a powerful tool for the study of bacterial effector proteins, providing new insight into our understanding of pathogenesis and other symbiotic relationships, and opportunities to identify new factors that contribute to host response to infection.},
}

*Bacterial Proteins/metabolism
*Biotin/metabolism
Humans
*Host Microbial Interactions
*Host-Pathogen Interactions
*Bacteria/metabolism/pathogenicity
*Virulence Factors/metabolism
Animals

@article {pmid40210400,
year = {2025},
author = {Wei, Y and Chen, Y and Lin, X and Zhang, S and Zhu, B and Ji, C},
title = {Integrated transcriptome and proteome analysis unveils black tea polyphenols metabolic pathways in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.},
journal = {Food microbiology},
volume = {130},
number = {},
pages = {104777},
doi = {10.1016/j.fm.2025.104777},
pmid = {40210400},
issn = {1095-9998},
mesh = {*Polyphenols/metabolism/chemistry ; *Saccharomyces cerevisiae/metabolism/genetics ; *Proteome/genetics/metabolism ; Fermentation ; *Tea/microbiology/chemistry/metabolism ; Metabolic Networks and Pathways ; *Transcriptome ; Saccharomyces cerevisiae Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Proteomics ; Kombucha Tea/microbiology ; Camellia sinensis ; },
abstract = {Kombucha is a fermented beverage produced through the fermentation of sweetened tea by a symbiotic community of bacteria and yeasts (SCOBY). Microbial fermentation in kombucha increases low-molecular-weight polyphenols contents, effectively improving the bioavailability and antioxidant properties. However, the biotransformation pathways of polymerized polyphenols remain poorly understood. This study combines polyphenol dynamics with transcriptomic and proteomic analyses to elucidate the metabolic pathways in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a yeast frequently found in kombucha, during black tea broth fermentation. Firstly, profiles of polyphenols, particularly catechins were analyzed and key points of polyphenol changes kinetics were identified, then transcriptome and proteome of S. cerevisiae were examined. The overall omics data profile indicated the reduction in protein synthesis in S. cerevisiae, reflecting a shift in resource allocation, with energy focused more on metabolic activities rather than on growth. Specifically, enzymes related to biotransformation of polymerized polyphenols and hydrolyzing of glycoside polyphenols were extracted. For polymeric polyphenols, the upregulation of peroxidases (CCP1) and multicopper oxidases (FET3) suggests their role in the degradation of organic aromatic compounds. They also showed a strong correlation with catechin changes. Additionally, S. cerevisiae enzymes like monooxygenase (COQ6) likely contribute to the reductive cleavage of the O1-C2 bond in the C-ring of flavan-3-ols. Enzymes such as NADPH dehydrogenase 3 (OYE3) may be involved in catechin degradation in the later stages of fermentation. In addition, glycoside hydrolases, involved in breaking glycosidic bonds in polyphenol glycosides, were also identified. Based on these findings, the tea polyphenol biotransformation pathways in S. cerevisiae were mapped. This research provides a foundation for uncovering polyphenol metabolism pathways in starter cultures, designing new cultures to achieve predictable polyphenol profiles in kombucha, and enhancing its health benefits.},
}

*Polyphenols/metabolism/chemistry
*Saccharomyces cerevisiae/metabolism/genetics
*Proteome/genetics/metabolism
Fermentation
*Tea/microbiology/chemistry/metabolism
Metabolic Networks and Pathways
*Transcriptome
Saccharomyces cerevisiae Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Proteomics
Kombucha Tea/microbiology
Camellia sinensis

@article {pmid40209752,
year = {2025},
author = {Akl, E and Dyrba, M and Görß, D and Schumacher, J and Weber, MA},
title = {MRI for diagnosing dementia - update 2025.},
journal = {RoFo : Fortschritte auf dem Gebiete der Rontgenstrahlen und der Nuklearmedizin},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1055/a-2563-0725},
pmid = {40209752},
issn = {1438-9010},
abstract = {Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a crucial role alongside clinical and neuropsychological assessments in diagnosing dementia. The recent and ongoing advancements in MRI technology have significantly enhanced the detection and characterization of the specific neurostructural changes seen in various neurodegenerative diseases, thereby significantly increasing the precision of diagnosis. Within this context of perpetual evolution, this review article explores the recent advances in MRI with regard to diagnosing dementia.A retrospective literature review was conducted by searching the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases for the keywords "dementia", "imaging", and "MRI". The inclusion criteria were scientific papers in English that revolved around the role of MRI as a diagnostic tool in the field of dementia. A specific time frame was not determined but the focus was on current articles, with an overall of 20 articles dating from the last 6 years (after 2018), corresponding to 55% of the total number of articles.This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in the radiologic diagnosis of dementia using MRI, with a particular focus on the last 6 years. Technical aspects of image acquisition for clinical and research purposes are discussed. MRI findings typical of dementia are described. The findings are divided into non-specific findings of dementia and characteristic findings for certain dementia subtypes. This provides information about possible causes of dementia. In addition, developed scoring systems that support MRI findings are presented, including the MTA score for Alzheimer's disease with corresponding illustrative figures.The symbiosis of clinical evaluation with high-field MRI methodologies enhances dementia diagnosis and offers a holistic and nuanced understanding of structural brain changes associated with dementia and its various subtypes. The latest advances, mainly involving the emergence of ultra-high-field (7T) MRI, despite having limited use in clinical practice, mark a pragmatic shift in the field of research. · High-field MRI (3T) and specialized sequences allow for the detection of early structural changes indicative of dementia.. · Characteristic neuroanatomical MRI patterns enable the differentiation between various subtypes of dementia.. · Established scales provide added value to the quantification and categorization of MRI findings in dementia.. · Akl E, Dyrba M, Görß D et al. MRI for diagnosing dementia - update 2024. Rofo 2025; DOI 10.1055/a-2563-0725.},
}

@article {pmid40209669,
year = {2025},
author = {Luo, M and Song, X},
title = {Phyto-metabolites on guard: Role of gut microbial deglycosylation.},
journal = {Cell host & microbe},
volume = {33},
number = {4},
pages = {451-453},
doi = {10.1016/j.chom.2025.03.011},
pmid = {40209669},
issn = {1934-6069},
mesh = {*Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Humans ; *Bacteroides/metabolism/enzymology ; *Glycosides/metabolism ; Glycosylation ; Symbiosis ; *Plants/metabolism/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Plant phenolic glycosides are thought to be beneficial for human health. In a recent issue of Cell, Kuziel et al. identified that Bacteroides species, the dominant symbiotic bacteria in the gut, harbor a unique multi-enzyme system that processes dietary plant glycosides into various aglycone metabolites with antimicrobial or immunomodulatory activities.},
}

*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Humans
*Bacteroides/metabolism/enzymology
*Glycosides/metabolism
Glycosylation
Symbiosis
*Plants/metabolism/chemistry

@article {pmid40208324,
year = {2025},
author = {Mazzella, V and Zahn, G and Dell'Anno, A and Pons, LN},
title = {Marine Mycobiomes Colonize Mediterranean Sponge Hosts in a Random Fashion.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {88},
number = {1},
pages = {25},
pmid = {40208324},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {C63C22000520001//National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP)/ ; C63C22000520001//National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP)/ ; C63C22000520001//National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Porifera/microbiology ; *Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Mediterranean Sea ; *Mycobiome ; *Seawater/microbiology ; Phylogeny ; Biodiversity ; DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic ; DNA, Fungal/genetics ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {Marine sponges are widespread, sessile, filter-feeding animals, known for living in association with complex prokaryotic communities structured by host species. Though marine fungi are ubiquitous across marine environments, little is known about sponge-associated fungal communities (mycobiome). Indeed, aside from a few studies based on the isolation of fungal strains for biotechnological purposes, little information is available to understand the diversity and structure of sponge mycobiome. Here, a metabarcoding approach based on the ITS1 marker was applied to examine the structure and composition of fungal communities associated with four Mediterranean sponges. The species: Petrosia ficiformis, Chondrosia reniformis, Crambe crambe, and Chondrilla nucula were analyzed along with the surrounding seawater, revealing Aspergillus (1-56%), Cladosporium (1-75%), Malassezia (1-38.5%), and Pennicillium (1.5-36%) as the most represented fungal genera. Our data showed high intra-specific variability and no clear core mycobiome within each of the sponge species host, suggesting stochastic and perhaps transient community membership. This study sheds light on one of the most abundant yet least understood components of the marine ecosystem. Unraveling the dynamics of fungal interactions within sponge holobionts is essential to advance our understanding of their ecological roles and functions. By addressing the enigmatic nature of sponge-associated fungi, this research opens new avenues for exploring their contributions to marine ecosystems and resolving the many unanswered questions in this field.},
}

Animals
*Porifera/microbiology
*Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Mediterranean Sea
*Mycobiome
*Seawater/microbiology
Phylogeny
Biodiversity
DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic
DNA, Fungal/genetics
Ecosystem

@article {pmid40207924,
year = {2025},
author = {Hendricks, A and Philips, TK and Engl, T and Plarre, R( and Martinson, VG},
title = {The bacterial microbiome in spider beetles and deathwatch beetles.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0198124},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.01981-24},
pmid = {40207924},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: The beetle family Ptinidae contains a number of economically important pests, such as the cigarette beetle Lasioderma serricorne, the drugstore beetle Stegobium paniceum, and the diverse spider beetles. Many of these species are stored product pests, which target a diverse range of food sources, from dried tobacco to books made with organic materials. Despite the threat that the 2,200 species of Ptinidae beetles pose, fewer than 50 have been surveyed for microbial symbionts, and only a handful have been screened using contemporary genomic methods. In this study, we screen 116 individual specimens that cover most subfamilies of Ptinidae, with outgroup beetles from closely related families Dermestidae, Endecatomidae, and Bostrichidae. We used 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon data to characterize the bacterial microbiomes of these specimens. The majority of these species had never been screened for microbes. We found that, unlike in their sister family, Bostrichidae, that has two mutualistic bacteria seen in most species, there are no consistent bacterial members of ptinid microbiomes. For specimens which had Wolbachia infections, we did additional screening using multilocus sequence typing and showed that our populations have different strains of Wolbachia than noted in previous publications.

IMPORTANCE: Ptinid beetles are both household pests of pantry goods and economic pests of dried goods warehouses and cultural archives, such as libraries and museums. Currently, the most common pest control measures for ptinid beetles are phosphine and/or heat treatments. Many ptinid beetles have been observed to have increasing resistance to phosphine, and heat treatments are not appropriate for many of the goods commonly infested by ptinids. Pest control techniques focused on symbiotic bacteria have been shown to significantly decrease populations and often have the beneficial side effect of being more specific than other pest control techniques. This survey provides foundational information about the bacteria associated with diverse ptinid species, which may be used for future control efforts.},
}

@article {pmid40206216,
year = {2025},
author = {Jin, M and Cai, L and Lu, L and Yu, M and Zhang, R},
title = {Combined metabolomic and genomic analyses reveal phage-specific and infection stage-specific alterations to marine Roseobacter metabolism.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {ycaf047},
pmid = {40206216},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Phages can reshape the metabolic network of hosts to support specific requirements for replication during infection. However, metabolomic profiling of phage-elicited host global metabolic alterations and the linkage of phage-encoded auxiliary metabolic genes to these alterations are understudied. In this study, the dynamics of intracellular metabolites of Dinoroseobacter shibae DFL12, a member of marine environmentally and biogeochemically relevant Roseobacter clade, in response to four distinct lytic roseophage infections were investigated. Metabolomic profiling indicated that roseophage infections significantly altered host metabolism in a phage-specific manner. Pathway enrichment analyses showed that the central carbon pathway and DNA, amino acid, and coenzyme metabolism were commonly altered by roseophages, revealing a central role of these pathways in phage replication. Furthermore, clear infection stage-specific host responses were observed, corresponding to different metabolic demands of phage replication in the early and late infection stages. Interestingly, the content of host vitamin B1, which is the essential nutrient provided by D. shibae to its symbiotic microalgae, increased in the early infection stage for most roseophages, implying that phage infection may impact the symbiosis of D. shibae with microalgae. Finally, combined metabolomic and phage genomics analyses showed that roseophages adopt different strategies to expand the host pyrimidine pool (recycling or de novo synthesis of pyrimidine nucleotides), and this difference was likely related to variation in the GC content between phage and host genomes. Collectively, these results highlight the potential importance of phage-specific and infection stage-specific host metabolic reprogramming in marine phage-host interactions, bacteria-microalgae symbiosis, and biogeochemical cycles.},
}

@article {pmid40205611,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Z and Liang, L and Jiang, X and Shan, J and Li, S and Liu, J and Dong, Q and Wang, X and Zhang, H},
title = {Skin microbiome influences the progression of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma through the immune system.},
journal = {World journal of surgical oncology},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {129},
pmid = {40205611},
issn = {1477-7819},
support = {2024ZYYA033//Shanxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; 2023RC-2-4//Science and Technology Bureau of Luliang/ ; 20240399//Shanxi Provincial Department of Education/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/immunology/microbiology/pathology ; *Skin Neoplasms/immunology/microbiology/pathology ; *Microbiota/immunology ; *Skin/microbiology/immunology ; Disease Progression ; *Immune System/immunology ; *Dysbiosis/immunology/microbiology ; Immunity, Innate ; Skin Microbiome ; },
abstract = {Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a type of skin tumor that develops in the epithelial cells. This disease has the second highest incidence of human skin cancers, with a high metastatic rate. While ultraviolet radiation significantly contributes to the genomic changes that support cSCC development, the dysbiosis of the skin microbiome and influence of the immune system also play important roles in this process. In this review, we discuss the effects of skin microbes and their metabolites on the immune system, including innate immune cells, T cells, and cytokines. We also discuss how Staphylococcus aureus and human papillomavirus can affect cSCC by impacting the immune system. Furthermore, we explore the antagonism of symbiotic microorganisms with cSCC-associated pathogens and their potential as novel therapeutic modalities.},
}

Humans
*Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/immunology/microbiology/pathology
*Skin Neoplasms/immunology/microbiology/pathology
*Microbiota/immunology
*Skin/microbiology/immunology
Disease Progression
*Immune System/immunology
*Dysbiosis/immunology/microbiology
Immunity, Innate
Skin Microbiome

@article {pmid40205240,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Liang, J and Shi, J and Yuan, W and Li, X and Ding, C},
title = {Applications of endophytic fungi in plant disease control.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {207},
number = {5},
pages = {117},
pmid = {40205240},
issn = {1432-072X},
support = {2023yjscx046//Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Graduate Innovative Research Project/ ; LH2020H093//Heilongjiang Natural Science Foundation joint guidance project/ ; 20060302//Central level major increase and decrease project/ ; 15041190011//Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine outstanding young and middle-aged backbone teachers training support plan project/ ; },
mesh = {*Endophytes/physiology ; *Plant Diseases/prevention & control/microbiology ; *Fungi/physiology ; *Biological Control Agents ; Crops, Agricultural/microbiology ; Symbiosis ; },
abstract = {Diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, and viruses) have resulted in the quality and yield of crops, which has seriously affected the development of the agricultural economy. The prolonged use of chemical fungicides for prevention and control can lead to environmental pollution, hindering the sustainable development of safe and eco-friendly agriculture while also promoting the resistance of pathogenic microorganisms. Nevertheless, non-pathogenic endophytic fungi that form symbiotic relationships with plants still exhibit significant antagonistic effects on pathogenic microorganisms, even in small concentrations. These fungi pose no threat to human health and are highly beneficial to the ecological environment, making them an ideal alternative to chemical fungicides. They are increasingly being recognized and have been subjected to comprehensive research. Based on this, this article summarizes the types of endophytic fungi with biocontrol effects in recent years. It focuses on elucidating the mechanisms of their biocontrol from physiological and molecular perspectives. In addition, the application and development challenges of biocontrol agents (BCAs) derived from these fungi are also discussed, including difficulties in elucidating their mechanisms of action during research and development, challenges in strain selection and improvement, difficulties in controlling environmental adaptability, and stringent storage conditions. The aim is to develop more effective endophytic fungi as emerging biocontrol resources for agricultural production.},
}

*Endophytes/physiology
*Plant Diseases/prevention & control/microbiology
*Fungi/physiology
*Biological Control Agents
Crops, Agricultural/microbiology
Symbiosis

@article {pmid40204265,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, Y and Zhao, X and Fan, Y and Huo, P and Huang, S and Wang, H and Lu, Z and Luo, Z and Zhang, Y},
title = {Transcriptome analysis of Beauveria bassiana interaction with Nicotiana benthamiana reveals signatures of N. Benthamiana growth promotion and enhanced defense responses.},
journal = {Journal of invertebrate pathology},
volume = {211},
number = {},
pages = {108334},
doi = {10.1016/j.jip.2025.108334},
pmid = {40204265},
issn = {1096-0805},
abstract = {Many entomopathogenic fungi form intimate (epi- and endo-phytic) associations with that plant that can stimulate plant growth and /or improve resistance to pathogens and insect pests. However, little is known concerning global gene networks that mediate such responses. Nicotiana benthamiana seedlings were artificially colonized by the entomogenous fungus, Beauveria bassiana, and the root tissues were examined via comparative transcriptome analyses performed versus fungal cells grown in vitro on dried root biomass. Plant hormone pathways, and genes involved in photosynthesis, immune defense response, and nutrient metabolism were triggered in roots after fungal colonization. Fungal differentially expressed genes during plant colonization included plant cell wall-degrading enzymes, and those involved in lipid metabolism, detoxification, and fungal cell wall remodeling, the latter suggesting reduction in the exposure of pathogen related molecular patterns to avoid perception by the plant immune system. Fungal metabolic genes involved in amino acid, nitrogen, sulfur and carbohydrate assimilation were activated, nutrient exchange with the plant host. Exchange was confirmed by detection of sulfur in the seedling that was increased by the fungal colonization. A set of fungal secondary metabolism-associated genes were also upregulated during the plant interaction, which might contribute to plant resistance against pathogens or/and insect pest. In addition, B. bassiana expressed a suite of effector/elicitor genes consistent with triggering plant growth and/or immune defense response pathways. These results revealed global gene networks active in both the plants and the fungus as a consequence of their symbiotic interaction, and provides insights into the molecular determinants and physiological responses affected.},
}

@article {pmid40204028,
year = {2025},
author = {Wei, Q and Wang, C and Qi, Y and Pang, F and Wang, M and Yang, G and Ma, X},
title = {Optimizing algal-bacterial systems for efficient sugar cane wastewater treatment: Pollutant removal and biomass resource recovery.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {429},
number = {},
pages = {132497},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.132497},
pmid = {40204028},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Sugarcane wastewater is highly biodegradable; however, conventional single-treatment processes are constrained by its excessive organic load. Here, we integrated anaerobic acidification with microalgal bioaugmentation to establish an algal-bacterial symbiotic system, leveraging metabolic synergies within functional microbial consortia. The results demonstrate that this system enables the synergistic integration of anaerobic and aerobic bacteria with microalgae, forming a highly efficient metabolic network that enhances water purification. By systematically investigating environmental determinants of water purification and biomass dynamics in conjunction with response surface methodology (RSM), we optimized environmental parameters. The optimized parameters included an aeration rate of 267 mL/min, a light intensity of 6985 lx, and a 12:12 h light-dark photoperiod. Under optimized conditions, the system achieved a COD removal efficiency of 98.56 % and a biomass yield of 3.43 g/L, underscoring dual efficacy in organic load reduction, aeration demand minimization, and resource recovery. This work provides a sustainable approach for treating high-strength sugarcane wastewater through integrated algal-bacterial processes.},
}

@article {pmid40204026,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, Z and Shi, W and Yuan, W and Chen, Z and Xie, Y and Lv, Z and Xu, J and Amadu, AA and Qiu, S and Ge, S},
title = {Development and operation of indigenous microalgal-bacterial consortium system treating eutrophic lake water: Consortium identification and system demonstration.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {429},
number = {},
pages = {132496},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.132496},
pmid = {40204026},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Natural water bodies such as the inland lake suffers from eutrophication due to excessive nutrient, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. This study demonstrated an indigenous microalgal-bacterial consortium (IMBC) system to treat eutrophic lake. Three IMBC were enriched from eutrophic lake water or/and sediments, exhibiting superior growth and complete nutrient removals compared to two commercial microalgal species. Particularly, the IMBC3 enriched from lake water and sediment (volume ratio of 1:1) were found to simultaneously achieve 91.0 % settling efficiency, attributed to its larger flocs and surface physical properties (e.g., higher surface hydrophobicity (78.0 %), protein/polysaccharide ratio (10.7) and zeta potential (-19.1 mV)). Subsequently, a long-term photobioreactor using IMBC3 further demonstrated stable nutrient removal and cold tolerance year-around. The microbial community's shift towards cold-tolerant genera and alleviated photoinhibition likely enhanced nitrogen cycling efficiency during colder months. These findings offer a feasible alternative using the IMBC with good environmental adaptation to eutrophication mitigation in nature water.},
}

@article {pmid40204004,
year = {2025},
author = {Jiang, W and Hou, X and Peng, G and Xia, Y and Cao, Y},
title = {Fungal ergot alkaloids: Metabolic pathways, biological functions, and advances in synthetic reprogramming.},
journal = {Biotechnology advances},
volume = {81},
number = {},
pages = {108578},
doi = {10.1016/j.biotechadv.2025.108578},
pmid = {40204004},
issn = {1873-1899},
abstract = {Ergot alkaloids (EAs) are a class of secondary metabolites produced by fungi. These compounds are predominantly synthesized by Ascomycota, with variations in types and biosynthetic pathways among different fungal species. The EA synthesis has minimal impact on the normal growth and development of most EA-producing fungi, but serves as a virulence factor that influences the biocontrol functions of entomopathogenic fungi and symbiotic fungi in plants. In the medical field, EAs have been widely used for treating neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease. However, the biosynthetic pathways of EAs are highly complex and significantly influenced by environmental factors, resulting in low yields from field production or chemical synthesis. To address the global demand for EAs, various strategies have been developed to reprogram the biosynthetic pathways in some chassis strains, aiming to simplify the process and increase EA production. This review summarizes the biosynthetic pathways and regulatory mechanisms of EAs in fungi, their biological functions, and recent advances in strategies for synthetic reprogramming.},
}

@article {pmid40203555,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, Y and Niu, Y and Zhou, Z and Ma, Y and Chen, M and Xu, N and Zhao, F and Sun, Y and Chen, P},
title = {Insight into endophytic microbiota-driven geographical and bioactive signatures toward a novel quality assessment model for Codonopsis Radix.},
journal = {Plant physiology and biochemistry : PPB},
volume = {223},
number = {},
pages = {109888},
doi = {10.1016/j.plaphy.2025.109888},
pmid = {40203555},
issn = {1873-2690},
abstract = {Codonopsis Radix, a medicinal and dietary herb in traditional Chinese medicine, largely owes its pharmacological efficacy to both intrinsic phytochemistry and symbiotic interactions with plant-associated microbes. Here, we deciphered the geo-environmental regulation of Codonopsis Radix's endophytic microbiota across four major production regions using 16S rRNA/ITS sequencing and bioactive compound profiling. Results demonstrated that the planting environment significantly shaped the endophytic community of Codonopsis Radix, where Bifidobacteriaceae and Muribaculaceae exhibited the strongest correlations with its bioactive components. Monolobus and Bradyrhizobium not only exhibit distinct associations with Lobetyolin and Atractylenolide III respectively, but also demonstrate significant correlations with the key biosynthetic pathways of these compounds. Leveraging machine learning, we developed the first microbiota-driven quality assessment model, achieving 100.0% and 85.7% prediction accuracies for Lobetyolin and Atractylenolide III respectively, using Random Forest algorithms. This dual-metric framework-integrating microbial signatures with chemical profiles-establishes a novel paradigm for Codonopsis Radix quality control, bridging ecological insights with precision agriculture. Our findings illuminate the microbiota's role as a biosynthetic orchestrator in geoherbalism, offering actionable strategies for sustainable cultivation and standardized production of Codonopsis Radix.},
}

@article {pmid40202595,
year = {2025},
author = {Yadav, G and Meena, M},
title = {Seasonal dynamics and enzyme profiles of diverse endophytic fungi in Sterculia urens Roxb.: insights into host-associated trends.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {41},
number = {4},
pages = {128},
pmid = {40202595},
issn = {1573-0972},
support = {SUR/2022/005216//Science and Engineering Research Board/ ; },
mesh = {*Endophytes/enzymology/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Seasons ; *Fungi/enzymology/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Phylogeny ; Biodiversity ; DNA, Fungal/genetics ; },
abstract = {Sterculia urens Roxb., well known for its medicinal uses, remains largely unexplored in terms of its fungal endophytic communities. This study is the first comprehensive assessment of fungal endophyte diversity in S. urens. Sampling was conducted across different plant parts, seasons, and study sites. Molecular identification of fungal isolates was carried out using ITS sequencing. Additionally, colonization frequency and endophytic fungal diversity were analyzed. These isolates were evaluated for extracellular enzyme. A total of 31 different endophytic fungal species, representing 16 genera, were identified based on > 97% ITS sequence similarity. Colonization frequency was significantly influenced by season (P ≤ 0.0001), tissue type (P ≤ 0.0001), and site (P ≤ 0.0001). Diversity indices revealed a significant difference in relation to season and tissue type, but not with respect to location. Furthermore, this study reports, for the first time globally, the identification of Chaetomium meridiolense and Crinipellis wandoensis as endophytic fungi. Extracellular enzyme analysis revealed enzymatic activity in 29 morphotypes. The diverse enzymatic profiles of these fungal endophytes highlight their potential for various biotechnological applications. In addition, molecular and genomic investigations will provide a deeper understanding of the functional roles and symbiotic mechanisms of these fungal endophytes. Potential applications of this research include enhancing plant growth and stress tolerance, developing sustainable biofertilizers and biocontrol agents, promoting eco-friendly bioremediation strategies for dye-contaminated environments, and discovering novel enzymes suitable for industrial biotechnological processes.},
}

*Endophytes/enzymology/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Seasons
*Fungi/enzymology/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Phylogeny
Biodiversity
DNA, Fungal/genetics

@article {pmid40202371,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Gao, Y and Vandeputte, DJ and Leermakers, M and Ruytinx, J},
title = {Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Improve Rice Production in Zinc-Amended Soils by Altering Zinc Transport and Translocation Routes.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.15543},
pmid = {40202371},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {//Y.Z. is a Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC) doctoral fellow (No. 202008410213). VUB IRP GROW project is thanked by Y.G. and D.V. This study was supported by Vrije Universiteit Brussel through start-up funding granted to J.R. (OZR3483)./ ; },
abstract = {Human activities including industry and overcultivation resulted in marginal soils, unbalanced in nutrients or polluted with heavy metals. Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient and its nonoptimal soil bio-availability, negatively affects plant growth and production. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) could improve Zn acquisition in limited conditions and prevent accumulation in plant tissue in contaminated soils. However, it is not clear how AMF impact host plant Zn uptake and transport routes. In this study we assessed the potential of commercial AMF inoculum to support rice growth and production in non-Zn-fertilised, Zn-fertilised and Zn-polluted soils alongside their impact on host plant nutrient balances and Zn uptake and translocation routes. The results demonstrated that AMF inoculation restores rice growth and grain production in Zn-amended soils and that Zn amendment improves root colonisation. Shoot ionomes were particularly sensitive to differences in Zn supply and differentially affected in AMF and mock-inoculated plants. When present in excess, AMF inoculation decreased accumulation of Zn in shoots and disturbed Zn-P (phosphorus) relationship. We could not detect a mycorrhiza-specific Zn transporter in rice but rather a modification of expression for Zn transporters in the direct uptake routes. AMF inoculation interacts with the Zn-dependent response of heavy metal ATPase (OsHMA) transporters involved in root-to-shoot translocation. All together, these data indicate a change in relative importance of different direct Zn transport routes upon AMF colonisation. These findings provide valuable insights into how AMF symbiosis influences Zn uptake and distribution in rice under varying Zn conditions, allowing for the development of plant-fungus bioremediation and biofortification technologies.},
}

@article {pmid40202233,
year = {2025},
author = {Nandi, D and Ramteke, NS},
title = {Immune responses in the skin: Not so skinny at all.},
journal = {Journal of biosciences},
volume = {50},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40202233},
issn = {0973-7138},
mesh = {Humans ; *Skin/immunology/microbiology ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology ; Animals ; Microbiota/immunology ; Symbiosis/immunology ; },
abstract = {The immune system is our defence network and primarily geared to protect us from pathogens and tumors. This aspect is evident in people who lack or possess a compromised immune system and are, therefore, highly susceptible to infections and development of cancer, as in AIDS patients (Nandi et al. 2020). However, healthy humans possess commensals in the gut and have developed a symbiotic relationship with these microbes. Indeed, we benefit from gut microbes that reside within us due to the production of microbial products such as vitamins, short-chain fatty acids, and other metabolites. As the gut flora changes with disease, information on the changed microbiome can be highly reflective of our health status (Shreiner et al. 2015). Recently, efforts have been directed towards better understanding of host responses towards commensals. While it is true that most of these efforts have focused on the gut, other organs have also been studied such as the respiratory tract and oral cavities. Two new studies have shed light on immune responses in the skin (Bousbaine et al. 2024; Gribonika et al. 2024). Why the skin? In fact, the skin is the largest and most well-exposed organ harboring immune capabilities to deal with several commensals (Belkaid and Segre 2014; Honda et al. 2019; Zhang et al. 2022). Most importantly, bacteria obtained from the skin in healthy humans are coated with antibodies, demonstrating host-directed immune responses (Metze et al. 1991); also, immunodeficient people are susceptible to skin infections (Lehman 2014). However, a detailed understanding of the players involved, and the extent of skin-directed immune responses in dealing with various microbes are lacking. Two recent papers have shed new light on immune responses in the skin utilizing high end flow cytometry, several strains of mutant mice and RNA seq (Bousbaine et al. 2024; Gribonika et al. 2024).},
}

Humans
*Skin/immunology/microbiology
Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology
Animals
Microbiota/immunology
Symbiosis/immunology

@article {pmid40201846,
year = {2025},
author = {Herdiana, Y},
title = {Polymeric rumen-stable delivery systems for delivering nutricines.},
journal = {Open veterinary journal},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {565-593},
pmid = {40201846},
issn = {2218-6050},
mesh = {Animals ; *Rumen/microbiology ; *Drug Delivery Systems/veterinary ; *Polymers/chemistry ; *Ruminants/physiology ; Animal Feed/analysis ; *Nutrients/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {Ruminants face unique drug and nutrient delivery challenges because of their symbiotic rumen microorganisms. Polymeric rumen-stable delivery systems (RDSs) have emerged as a promising solution for efficiently delivering nutrition and enhancing animal health and productivity. Traditional methods such as heat and chemical treatment have been improved with polymeric coatings that facilitate the slow postruminal release of bioactive substances. Polymeric coatings of nutrients offer significant potential for improving ruminant health, reducing farmer costs, and promoting sustainability in livestock. This paper explores the mechanisms of rumen protection and abomasal release provided by polymeric coatings, discusses other RSDs, and reviews methods for evaluating their performance in vitro and in vivo. Further research in this area could advance novel nutricine delivery solutions for ruminants.},
}

Animals
*Rumen/microbiology
*Drug Delivery Systems/veterinary
*Polymers/chemistry
*Ruminants/physiology
Animal Feed/analysis
*Nutrients/administration & dosage

@article {pmid40201438,
year = {2025},
author = {Lu, W and Yi, X and Ge, Y and Zhang, X and Shen, K and Zhuang, H and Deng, Z and Liu, D and Cao, J and Ma, C},
title = {Effects of dietary fiber on the composition, function, and symbiotic interactions of intestinal microbiota in pre-weaned calves.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1554484},
pmid = {40201438},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Dietary fiber plays a crucial role in maintaining gastrointestinal health. However, its protective effects on the intestinal health of calves remain to be fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the impact of dietary fiber supplementation on the intestinal microbiota of pre-weaned calves and its potential role in modulating microbial metabolic pathways.

METHODS: A randomized controlled trial was conducted, enrolling 135 calves that were randomly assigned into three groups: (1) inulin supplementation, (2) psyllium husk powder (PHP) supplementation, and (3) a control group receiving no dietary fiber. Fecal microbiota samples were collected from calves without diarrhea at five time points (0, 7, 14, 28, and 56 days of age). Metagenomic sequencing was performed to analyze microbial composition and functional pathways. Additionally, a differential analysis of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) was performed to evaluate the effect of dietary fiber on carbohydrate metabolism enzyme activity within the intestinal microbiota.

RESULTS: Calves supplemented with dietary fiber exhibited a significant increase in the abundance of Bifidobacterium and Prevotella compared to the control group. These bacterial genera contributed to intestinal protection by modulating secondary bile acid metabolism and flavonoid metabolism pathways. CAZymes differential analysis revealed an increased abundance of carbohydrate metabolism enzymes in response to dietary fiber supplementation, with distinct microbial community compositions observed among different fiber treatments. Notably, at 56 days of age, calves fed PHP harbored intergeneric symbiotic clusters comprising Clostridium, Prevotella, and Bacteroides, suggesting a cooperative microbial network that may contribute to intestinal homeostasis.

DISCUSSION: The findings of this study highlight the beneficial effects of dietary fiber on calf intestinal microbiota, particularly in enhancing microbial diversity and enzymatic activity related to carbohydrate metabolism. The observed microbial symbiosis in PHP-fed calves suggests a potential role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis. These insights provide a theoretical foundation for optimizing dietary interventions to promote gut health in calves during the transition period. Further research is warranted to explore the mechanistic interactions between dietary fiber, gut microbiota, and host health outcomes.},
}