@article {pmid42323568,
year = {2026},
author = {Alves, CPP and Pinto, OHB and Pappas, GJ and Mota, SS and Rahlff, J and Krüger, RH},
title = {Taxonomic and functional diversity of the microbiome associated with the freshwater sponge Metania sp. (Haplosclerida: Metaniidae) from the Brazilian Cerrado, a metagenomic approach.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42323568},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {Animals ; Brazil ; *Porifera/microbiology ; *Microbiota/genetics ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Fresh Water/microbiology ; *Archaea/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Symbiosis ; Phylogeny ; Metagenome ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Biodiversity ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sponges, the oldest metazoans on the planet, have an evolutionary history shaped by symbiotic associations with microorganisms. Although well studied in marine sponges, these associations are poorly understood in freshwater species. This study explored the taxonomic diversity and functional potential of the microbiome of the freshwater sponge Metania sp. and its distinction from the surrounding water, using a metagenomic approach. The samples were collected in the Brazilian Cerrado.

RESULTS: Taxonomic assignment identified 17 phyla, including bacterial and archaeal, with 19 sequence variants successfully assigned to the species level. Bacteria comprised 16 phyla, with a predominance of Pseudomonadota, Actinomycetota, and Bacteroidota in both microbiomes. The sponge microbiome is distinct from the water microbiome (PERMANOVA; F = 21.6, p = 0.04), sharing only 27% of the identified taxa. Functional prediction resulted in 7,201 KEGG Orthologs (KOs), assigned to 117 significantly enriched metabolic pathways. Although 95 pathways are shared, differential abundance analysis identified 1,024 KOs more abundant in the sponge microbiome and 1,275 in the water. The presence of bacterial defense systems such as CRISPR-Cas in the sponge microbiome suggests a crucial role in protecting against phages while maintaining symbiosis. In contrast, the water microbiota is enriched with pathways linked to environmental adaptation, such as secondary metabolite biosynthesis and pollutant degradation. Although the water microbiome harbored 1.3 times more biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), the sponge microbiome also demonstrated biotechnological potential for producing secondary metabolites, especially antimicrobial.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings demonstrate that the freshwater sponge Metania sp. hosts a complex and functionally specialized microbial community that plays fundamental roles in adaptation, nutrition, and defense, highlighting the critical importance of symbiotic associations for the host.},
}

Animals
Brazil
*Porifera/microbiology
*Microbiota/genetics
*Metagenomics/methods
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Fresh Water/microbiology
*Archaea/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Symbiosis
Phylogeny
Metagenome
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Biodiversity
Sequence Analysis, DNA

@article {pmid42324605,
year = {2026},
author = {Yin, C and Magne, K and Berrabah, F and Monachello, D and Bernal, G and Mysore, KS and Wen, J and Etchebest, C and Ratet, P and Gruber, V},
title = {MtGRF8 interacts with MtSymCRK and prevents early bacteroid death during Medicago - Sinorhizobium symbiosis.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71343},
pmid = {42324605},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {DBI0703285//National Science Foundation/ ; IOS-1127155//National Science Foundation/ ; ANR-18-IDEX-0001//IdEX Universite de Paris/ ; ANR-11-IDEX-0003-02//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; 202008410235//China Scholarship Council PhD Scholarship/ ; ANR-10-LABX-0040-SPS//LabEx Saclay Plant Sciences/ ; ANR-17-EUR-0007//LabEx Saclay Plant Sciences/ ; EUR SPS-GSR//LabEx Saclay Plant Sciences/ ; },
abstract = {In Medicago littoralis R-108, Symbiotic CYSTEINE-RICH RECEPTOR-LIKE KINASE (MtSymCRK) is required to prevent defense reactions in symbiotic nodules during chronic infection. MtSymCRK represents a key legume symbiotic gene controlling nodule immunity and early bacteroid survival, but its mode of action in the cell signaling remains poorly understood. This study investigated proteins interacting with MtSymCRK by screening an Arabidopsis thaliana open reading frame (ORF) library using yeast-two-hybrid followed by translational genetics towards R-108. Finally, we conducted a reverse genetic approach in R-108 using Transposon of Nicotiana tabacum 1 (Tnt1) insertional mutants. We identified a 14-3-3 protein, AtGENERAL REGULATORY FACTOR 8 (AtGRF8) interacting with MtSymCRK kinase domain (MtSymCRK[KIN]) and confirmed the interaction between MtSymCRK[KIN] and MtGRF8, the closest homolog of AtGRF8 in R-108. Moreover, other members of the 14-3-3 family interact with MtSymCRK[KIN] but with a lower affinity than MtGRF8. We also demonstrated that the corresponding Tnt1 mutant line Mtgrf8 displays symbiotic dysfunctions in defense and senescence responses, resulting in a reduction of bacteroid differentiation. These dysfunctions compromise the intracellular survival of the rhizobia, thereby impairing the nitrogen fixation of rhizobia. Our findings show that MtGRF8 and MtSymCRK are required for effective functioning of symbiosis and prevention of bacteroid death.},
}

@article {pmid42324709,
year = {2026},
author = {Biró, JB and Péter, C and Domonkos, Á and Hegedűs, Z and Lakatos, L and Rana, D and Gyula, P and Silhavy, D and Kaló, P},
title = {Nonsense-Mediated Decay mRNA Quality Control System Is Essential for Root Development and Efficient Root Nodule Symbiosis in Medicago truncatula.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70683},
pmid = {42324709},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {K136513//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; K139349//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; K150440//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; FK137811//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; 454004//HUN-REN Biological Research Centre/ ; //Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences/ ; 1917 1K264//Ministry of Innovation and Technology, Hungary/ ; },
}

@article {pmid42325034,
year = {2026},
author = {Parikh, M and Bhagat, P and Sutaria, AH and Bharwad, S and Vaja, H and Banker, A and Shah, K and Goswami, HM},
title = {A structured, mentored experiential clinical research programme for undergraduate students.},
journal = {The National medical journal of India},
volume = {39},
number = {4},
pages = {253-256},
doi = {10.25259/NMJI_385_2024},
pmid = {42325034},
issn = {2583-150X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Education, Medical, Undergraduate/methods ; *Mentors ; India ; *Biomedical Research/education ; Curriculum ; *Students, Medical ; *Mentoring/methods ; *Problem-Based Learning/methods ; Program Evaluation ; },
abstract = {Background Introduction to medical research early in the undergraduate years contributes to building a robust foundation for students in their medical education. In India, due to the lack of a structured curriculum incorporating research in medical under-graduation, a window opens for many unsuitable practices - predatory journals, unguided exposure to research, no checkpoint for unethical practices and reduced productivity of the student and the system alike and during the course of study, undergraduates tend to prioritize only their core subjects, with research not being acknowledged. Thus, practical applications to encourage early involvement in research during the initial stages need to be provided. Further, mentoring is a key element in professional growth, and functional mentoring is a pragmatic approach that produces measurable outcomes across several levels. Methods We designed a programme that incorporates a tangible outcome, using a functional mentorship model and experiential learning. We further evaluated the implementation of a structured, mentored clinical research programme targeting the undergraduate medical students at the institute. Results We present our experience with the first batch of this 4 month mentorship programme using the context, input, process and product model of evaluation. Conclusion Through this programme, we could create a drive for productive, ethical research at a grass root level and help students appreciate the symbiotic relationship between research and clinical care.},
}

Humans
*Education, Medical, Undergraduate/methods
*Mentors
India
*Biomedical Research/education
Curriculum
*Students, Medical
*Mentoring/methods
*Problem-Based Learning/methods
Program Evaluation

@article {pmid42325907,
year = {2026},
author = {Hua, Z and Li, L and Chen, Y and Cao, Y and Liu, W and Teng, X and Zhou, J and Zhao, Y and Yuan, Y},
title = {Chromosome-level genome assembly and population genomics unveil strigolactone-regulated growth adaptation in the mycoheterotrophic orchid Gastrodia elata.},
journal = {Horticulture research},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {uhag099},
pmid = {42325907},
issn = {2662-6810},
abstract = {Mycoheterotrophic plants rely entirely on fungal symbionts for nutrients, yet the role of intraspecific genomic variation in shaping symbiotic adaptation remains unclear. Gastrodia elata is a mycoheterotrophic orchid with multiple cultivated varieties. Here, we generated a chromosome-level genome of G. elata Bl. f. glauca. Comparative genomic analyses with published G. elata assemblies revealed extensive intraspecific variation, characterized by transposon-mediated inversions occurring in 26% of syntenic regions. Notably, these regions frequently harbored orphan genes. Population genomic analysis of 150 individuals identified three genetically distinct clades: two cultivated (Clades E and G) and one hybrid (Clade I). Transcriptomic profiling uncovered clade-specific expression patterns in symbiosis-related genes, particularly within strigolactone signaling pathways. Molecular dynamics simulations and protein interaction assays demonstrated that polymorphisms in the M domain of the suppressor protein DWARF53 (GeD53) modulate strigolactone signaling by altering the stability of its interaction with the receptor (GeD14). Specifically, a Clade G-specific haplotype enhanced signaling through stabilized protein interactions, thereby influencing tuber development genes, whereas GeD14 variants had minimal functional impact. Further co-expression networks identified LOL5, RNP1, and MTHD as downstream effectors correlating with clade-specific tuber phenotypes and carbohydrate allocation. These findings demonstrate how intraspecific variation in strigolactone signaling components drives functional divergence in G. elata, providing both mechanistic insights into mycoheterotrophic adaptation and genomic resources for future research.},
}

@article {pmid42328075,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, X and Xie, Y and Lu, Y and Hu, X and Xu, W and Pan, S and Xue, Y},
title = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobium facilitate nitrogen uptake and transfer in soybean/tobacco intercropping system.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1842437},
pmid = {42328075},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The tripartite symbiosis of legume-AMF-rhizobia is widely considered to facilitate nitrogen (N) uptakeby legumes, but its effect on non-legume plants in intercropping systems remains unclear.

METHODS: A pot experiment with three root separations (PS, MS, NS) was conducted using ¹⁵N isotope tracing in a soybean/tobacco intercropping system with double inoculation of Claroideoglomus etunicatum (CE) and Bradyrhizobium japonicum 5016 (BJ).

RESULTS: Double inoculation (CE+BJ) significantly increased bioaccumulation, N uptake, and N transfer from soybean to tobacco compared to single or no inoculation. Mycorrhizal colonization in soybean increased by up to 45.55% in the NS system. All measured parameters in tobacco were significantly higher in NS than in PS or MS systems.

DISCUSSION: The legume-AMF-rhizobium triple interaction positively affects N uptake and translocation in tobacco, showing potential for sustainable tobacco production, though the underlying mechanisms require further study.},
}

@article {pmid42328146,
year = {2026},
author = {Andressa, I and Neves, NA and do Nascimento, GKS and Dos Santos, TM and Teotônio, DO and Rodrigues, SM and Costa Sobrinho, PS and Rocha, LOF and Leite Junior, BRC and Benassi, VM and Schmiele, M},
title = {Production of symbiotic non-dairy beverage fermented by Lactobacillus sp. using a water-soluble extract from sprouted purple creole corn and xylo-oligosaccharides from corncobs.},
journal = {Journal of food science and technology},
volume = {63},
number = {7},
pages = {1389-1402},
pmid = {42328146},
issn = {0022-1155},
abstract = {This study aimed to develop beverages based on germinated purple pericarp creole corn (PPCC), with the addition of xylooligosaccharides (XOS) extracted from corn cobs, combined with Lactobacillus sp. probiotics. Xylan was first extracted from the corn cobs, followed by enzymatic hydrolysis to obtain XOS using a xylanolytic cocktail produced by the filamentous fungus Fusarium spp. E.A. 1.3.1. The XOS production yielded a satisfactory amount (~ 56%) and was free of monomeric sugars (xylose or glucose). The addition of XOS and sucrose positively influenced the reduction of macroscopic sedimentation in the beverages (P < 0.05) during the storage period (7 °C/28 days). All experiments consistently showed viable cell counts exceeding 10[8] CFU·mL[-1] throughout the entire storage period. Moreover, beverages with sucrose supplementation achieved an XOS concentration above 2.5 g per serving (200 mL), as determined by high-performance anion-exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection (HPAE-PAD). Thus, the products from all trials exhibit functional potential due to the probiotic microorganism counts and the synergistic effects of the Lactobacillus sp. and XOS combination. Developing beverages based on germinated PPCC with added XOS extracted from corn cobs presents a promising solution to address existing market gaps, while also emphasizing the role of creole seeds in agrobiodiversity.},
}

@article {pmid42328654,
year = {2026},
author = {She, M and Sun, X and Tan, Z},
title = {Polygonatum sibiricum combined with Poria cocos prevents spleen deficiency constipation via the gut microbiota-mediated brain-gut axis.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1793441},
pmid = {42328654},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The study evaluates the preventive effects of Polygonatum sibiricum and Poria cocos (3:1) on spleen deficiency constipation in mice, focusing on the brain-gut axis, gut microbiota, and oxidative stress. The findings aim to inform the prevention and treatment of this condition.

METHODS: Thirty male specific pathogen-free (SPF) KM mice (4 weeks old, 20 ± 2 g) were randomized into a normal control group (NC), a model group (NM), and a Polygonatum sibiricum and Poria cocos group (HF). Serum levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), cholecystokinin (CCK), motilin (MTL), and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) were measured by ELISA. Liver superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were measured by a spectrophotometer. Gut microbiota was analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing.

RESULTS: Compared to NM, the HF showed significantly increased 5-HT, CCK(p < 0.05), and MTL (p < 0.001), and significantly decreased VIP(p < 0.05). Liver MDA content was markedly higher in NM than in NC(p < 0.01), with a downward trend in HF. Conversely, the liver SOD activity in NM was significantly lower than in NC(p < 0.001), and the HF displayed an upward trend. Microbiota analysis revealed higher diversity in HF, as indicated by higher chao1, pielou_e, shannon, and simpson indices. The gut microbiota species composition in the HF was dominated by beneficial bacteria such as Bacteroidota and Faecalibaculum, with a reduction in pathogenic bacteria such as Proteobacteria and Escherichia-Shigella. The characteristic gut microbiota of the NM was enriched in Escherichia-Shigella and its conditional pathogens, while the characteristic gut microbiota of the HF was enriched in beneficial symbiotic bacteria such as Akkermansia, Blautia, and Bifidobacterium. The metabolic pathways and the genetic information processing pathway were improved in the HF, and the DNA repair and recombination protein pathways were also repaired.

CONCLUSION: The P. sibiricum and P. cocos combination effectively prevents spleen deficiency constipation, an effect associated with the brain-gut axis and gut microbiota. The observed trends in oxidative stress markers warrant further investigation.},
}

@article {pmid42329470,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, X and Cooksley, CM and Awad, M and Barry, EF and Psaltis, AJ and Wormald, PJ and Vreugde, S},
title = {Reciprocal adaptation is critical in enhancing S. aureus and P. aeruginosa biofilm biomass.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {42329470},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/growth & development/isolation & purification ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/growth & development/isolation & purification ; Humans ; Rhinosinusitis/microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Coculture Techniques ; Biomass ; Adaptation, Physiological ; Amikacin/pharmacology ; Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Polymicrobial communities impose a great challenge for clinical management of chronic infections. It is a consensus now that microbes exist as aggregated colonies shielded within polymeric matrix. Within this matrix more than one bacterial species can exist either in symbiotic or rival relationships. Herein, we investigated the host-specific interspecies interactions between Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The indirect interaction between the two species was assessed using Transwell co-culture chambers, where S. aureus and P. aeruginosa (n = 3 each) derived from CRS patients were cultured in separate chambers that allowed exchange of soluble factors. Later the biofilm biomass of each species was evaluated and compared to single species biofilm. Further, the influence of the co-culture conditions on antibiotic tolerance was evaluated. When derived from the same patient, co-cultured bacteria increased the biofilm biomass of each other significantly by 3.0-4.9 fold (p < 0.01) and exhibited higher tolerance to amikacin compared to co-cultures of isolates from two different patients and monocultured biofilms. Moreover, the incubation of one bacterial protein-enriched secreted fractions (PESF) with alternative species form same patient significantly increased biomass by 1.5-4.8 fold (p < 0.01), while similar trend was not observed among randomly cultured species. These data underscore the synergistic growth pattern between different bacterial species growing in the same niche and highlight the importance of further studies to aid the selection of antibiotics targeting polymicrobial biofilms.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/growth & development/isolation & purification
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/growth & development/isolation & purification
Humans
Rhinosinusitis/microbiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Coculture Techniques
Biomass
Adaptation, Physiological
Amikacin/pharmacology
Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology

@article {pmid42330866,
year = {2026},
author = {Vellani, V and Munari, M and Bacchini, SD and D'Aniello, I and Torre, CD and Matozzo, V and Nannini, M and Signorini, SG and Tamburello, L and Musco, L},
title = {Marine heatwaves outweigh microplastic exposure in driving physiological changes in the coral Astroides calycularis.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {232},
number = {},
pages = {120037},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120037},
pmid = {42330866},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {Global climate change and anthropogenic pollution are major threats to marine ecosystems, with heatwaves and microplastics posing a particular risk to corals. The combined effects of these stressors are still poorly understood, especially for non-symbiotic species like the Mediterranean coral Astroides calycularis. In this study, the combined effects of a simulated heatwave (HW) and microplastics (MPs) on physiological (respiration and excretion rates) and biochemical responses (oxidative stress and energy metabolism biomarkers) of this coral were studied for the first time. Colonies were exposed for four weeks to four conditions: control (26 °C), HW (29 °C), MPs, and a combination of both. Results show that the HW was the primary driver of change, significantly increasing respiration and excretion rates and modulating the antioxidant system. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity increased, while catalase (CAT) and glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) decreased. This indicates a strong metabolic and antioxidant response to thermal stress. In contrast, MPs had only a minor physiological effect on respiration and did not induce a significant biochemical stress response. No significant interaction was detected between the two stressors, suggesting they act independently. Our findings highlight the vulnerability of A. calycularis to thermal stress and underscore the need to study multiple stressors to better understand coral resilience in a changing ocean.},
}

@article {pmid42330923,
year = {2026},
author = {Hansson, EM and Brockhurst, MA},
title = {Symbiosis: Mutualism on the move.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {36},
number = {12},
pages = {R693-R695},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2026.04.013},
pmid = {42330923},
issn = {1879-0445},
abstract = {Symbiosis underlies the evolution of complex life and the function of ecosystems worldwide, yet the origins of symbioses are poorly understood. A new study reveals how symbiotic bacteria are created by horizontal gene transfer.},
}

@article {pmid42331038,
year = {2026},
author = {Lei, Y and Liu, Z and Chen, Q and Wu, X and Li, M and Liu, F and Liu, Y and Yin, Z and Zhao, S and Shen, P and Zhao, Y and Lamlom, SF and Ren, H and Yan, L and Zhao, H},
title = {The GmCYCLOPS paralogs regulate soybean nodulation and exhibit signatures during domestication.},
journal = {Plant science : an international journal of experimental plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {113287},
doi = {10.1016/j.plantsci.2026.113287},
pmid = {42331038},
issn = {1873-2259},
abstract = {CYCLOPS functions as a central regulator in legume-rhizobia symbiosis, but its role in cultivated soybean remains incompletely characterized. Through homology-based sequence analysis using Lotus japonicus LjCYCLOPS as a query, two soybean orthologs were identified, GmCYCLOPS1 and GmCYCLOPS2, sharing 98.1% amino acid identity. Both genes exhibited root- and nodule-enriched expression, with peak induction at 12hours post-rhizobial inoculation. Subcellular localization assays showed that both GmCYCLOPS1 and GmCYCLOPS2 proteins are enriched in the nucleus but also present in the cytoplasm. Functional analyses using Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated hairy root transformation demonstrated that RNA interference targeting either paralog reduced expression of both genes and significantly decreased nodulation. Consistently, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated disruption of both GmCYCLOPS1 and GmCYCLOPS2 generated double mutants with severe nodulation defects, whereas overexpression of these paralogs enhanced nodule formation. Population genomic analysis of 1,504 accessions (34 wild, 423 landraces, and 1,047 cultivars) revealed that the GmCYCLOPS1 haplotype Hap10, absent in wild accessions, increased to 91% in landraces and 99% in cultivars, showing strong selection signatures and enrichment in Northeast China. Meanwhile, GmCYCLOPS2 exhibited more moderate and regionally structured haplotype diversity. Together, these results reveal that GmCYCLOPS1 and GmCYCLOPS2 act as core regulators of soybean nodulation and have undergone divergent selection and geographic differentiation during soybean domestication. This study characterizes the functional and evolutionary features of the GmCYCLOPS paralogs, providing valuable gene and haplotype resources to improve soybean nodulation traits.},
}

@article {pmid42322129,
year = {2026},
author = {Usui, T and Yu, J and Frederickson, ME},
title = {For colonization success, should hosts and microbes travel alone, together, or swap partners along the way?.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71372},
pmid = {42322129},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; GBM10635//Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation/ ; GBMF9536//Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation/ ; //University of Toronto/ ; },
abstract = {Microbiomes that enhance the performance of host plants are likely to be co-introduced with their host during colonization because of their intimate association. Yet, it is unclear how co-introduced microbes will impact host colonization, as both the microbiome and its effects could vary upon introduction into a new habitat. Using the duckweed Lemna japonica - a cosmopolitan, freshwater angiosperm - and its microbiome, we tracked the colonization of both plants and microbes during an experimental co-introduction in the wild. We tested how plant performance varied during colonization when plants were co-introduced with microbes from their home habitat or with microbes local to the introduced habitat. We found that plant performance was substantially reduced when plants were co-introduced with microbes from their home habitat (i.e. with microbes that are non-local to the introduced habitat), relative to hosts with a local microbiome. Moreover, negative impacts from the initial, non-local microbiome persisted for multiple host generations despite a rapid turnover in microbiome composition. Our results suggest that the initial microbiome plants are co-introduced and can leave lasting impacts on plant performance during colonization. Considering the identity of the co-introduced microbiome will therefore be critical to predicting plant colonization dynamics in an era of global change.},
}

@article {pmid42322537,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohan, VK and Joshi, S and Joshi, SR},
title = {Synergistic effect of Rhizophagus irregularis and its associated bacteria on the growth of maize and Khasi mandarin.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {42322537},
issn = {1573-0972},
support = {BT/PR40089/NER/951663/2020)//Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; MBMA/SLM/R&D/108/2025/C-8/44//Meghalaya Basin Development Agency/ ; },
mesh = {*Zea mays/microbiology/growth & development ; *Bacteria/isolation & purification/classification/genetics/metabolism ; Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development ; Soil Microbiology ; Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Citrus/microbiology/growth & development ; Indoleacetic Acids/metabolism ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; Symbiosis ; Phylogeny ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; Rhizosphere ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Fungi ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form symbiotic associations with plant roots and play a significant role in improving plant nutrition and growth. To enrich and propagate the indigenous arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities associated with Khasi mandarin (Citrus reticulata), trap cultures were established using field-collected rhizospheric soil and root fragments. Rhizophagus irregularis was isolated from the trap culture and identified by amplifying the SSU region of 18 S rDNA. Bacterial isolates associated with AMF spores have been isolated from both the outer and inner spore surfaces. The isolates were identified by amplifying and sequencing the 16 S rDNA region. All bacterial isolates were tested for their plant growth-promoting properties, such as phosphate solubilization, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, siderophore production, and extracellular enzyme activity. The findings revealed major functional differences between bacteria on the spore surface and those found inside the spores. Selected promising isolates were then tested for their capacity to promote plant growth in maize and Khasi mandarin under controlled conditions. Plants treated with AMF and selected bacterial isolates exhibited significantly improved growth characteristics compared with untreated controls.},
}

*Zea mays/microbiology/growth & development
*Bacteria/isolation & purification/classification/genetics/metabolism
Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development
Soil Microbiology
Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Citrus/microbiology/growth & development
Indoleacetic Acids/metabolism
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
DNA, Ribosomal/genetics
Symbiosis
Phylogeny
DNA, Bacterial/genetics
Rhizosphere
Sequence Analysis, DNA
Fungi

@article {pmid42323540,
year = {2026},
author = {Yaseen, U and Nurbaity, A and Fitriatin, BN and Simarmata, T and Sujudi, IH and Ahmad, F and Safitri, A},
title = {Synergistic effects of organic amendments and dual microbial inoculation on morphophysiological traits, nutrient uptake, and microbial symbiosis of black soybean (Glycine max) in Inceptisol.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12870-026-09244-9},
pmid = {42323540},
issn = {1471-2229},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sustainable intensification of soybean production requires strategies that simultaneously enhance plant growth, nutrient acquisition, and microbial symbiosis, particularly in nutrient-limited soils.

METHODS: This experiment investigated the combined effects of organic amendments (Biochar, Vermicompost) and microbial biofertilizers [encapsulated Rhizobium and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF)] on the morphophysiological performance of black soybean (Glycine max).

RESULTS: All treatments, the integration of Vermicompost and Biochar with dual inoculation (encapsulated Rhizobium + AMF) consistently produced the most pronounced improvements. Leaf area index and height-diameter ratio were significantly enhanced from 21 days after planting onward, with the strongest canopy expansion and structural growth observed at 28 days. Biomass of shoots and roots production was maximized under Biochar + dual inoculation, surpassing all other treatments. Phosphorus uptake was significantly elevated, and AMF root colonization reached 80%, the highest across treatments. This treatment also supported the greatest nitrogen-fixing bacterial population (7.63 × 105 CFU g⁻1 soil), indicating synergistic microbial interactions. Data analyses confirmed that improvements in morphophysiology, nutrient acquisition, and microbial activity were strongly interrelated, with the majority of variance explained by coordinated responses under the Biochar + dual inoculation system.

CONCLUSION: The integration of Biochar with encapsulated Rhizobium and AMF represents a highly effective strategy to enhance black soybean productivity and microbial symbiosis in Inceptisol, offering a promising pathway toward sustainable crop management.},
}

@article {pmid42321606,
year = {2026},
author = {Okrasińska, A and Furman, M and Lisiak, J and Michalik, A and Pawłowska, J},
title = {Characterization of facultative yet endohyphal interaction between Umbelopsis and Paraburkholderia.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12864-026-13055-5},
pmid = {42321606},
issn = {1471-2164},
support = {2021/41/N/NZ8/01994//Narodowe Centrum Nauki, Poland/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The generalist and facultative symbioses are more common in nature and usually precede obligate and specialized ones. Although bacterial-fungal interactions are probably not an exception, little is known about the role that facultative bacterial-fungal symbioses may play in adaptation to occupying specific niches and changing environmental conditions. While Mucoromycota fungi are known to form close relationships with endohyphal bacteria, examples of more facultative interactions have been recently reported in this lineage as well. One example of facultative, yet endohyphal interaction is Umbelopsis-Paraburkholderia consortium which seems to be highly prevalent in deadwood. In this study we aimed to characterize this relationship as, so far, in-depth characterizations are available only for strictly endohyphal bacteria and their hosts.

RESULTS: We compared functionally annotated genomes of both partners with genomes of their free-living and symbiotic relatives. Analysis showed that the genome of Paraburkholderia does not differ greatly from genomes of free-living Burkholderiaceae, as it is not reduced and possesses a similar enzymatic potential. The genome of the fungal partner is also similar to the genomes of its close relatives, however Umbelopsis belongs to a relatively understudied taxonomic group, thus conclusions about its genomic content are less certain. In the genomes we identified some features needed for establishment and maintenance of endohyphal interaction, such as genes coding for diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) and secretion systems. Finally, we detected potential metabolic intertwinement in wood degrading capacities of partners, which, combined with the detection of genes encoding plant growth promotion factors in bacteria, allows us to assume that the consortium is well adapted to develop in the decaying wood ecosystem from which it was isolated.

CONCLUSIONS: While presence of Paraburkholderia decreases growth rate of Umbelopsis in the simplified laboratory system, it is possible that together they may occupy niches not available to each partner individually. Paraburkholderia, unlike strictly endohyphal symbionts, has a non-reduced genome, with extensive metabolic capacities which probably play an important role in adaptation to colonizing otherwise inaccessible niches by their fungal host.},
}

@article {pmid42321973,
year = {2026},
author = {Du, S and Liao, XF and Tian, F and Huang, L and Wei, TH and Huo, D and Xie, T},
title = {Functional divergence and stage-specific symbiosis of endophytic Tulasnella fungi in the endangered orchid Paphiopedilum malipoense.},
journal = {Plant signaling & behavior},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {2689804},
doi = {10.1080/15592324.2026.2689804},
pmid = {42321973},
issn = {1559-2324},
abstract = {Paphiopedilum malipoense, a critically endangered orchid, depends entirely on mycorrhizal fungi for germination, complicating its conservation. This study isolated 12 fungal strains from wild roots, all identified as Tulasnella, confirming strict host specificity. Cross-species germination assays revealed functional divergence: strains MLP116, MLP027, and MLP232 supported full protocorm-to-seedling development with germination rates of 54.27%, 54.88%, and 62.01%, respectively, while others induced developmental arrest. Seedling symbiosis showed stage-specific effects: MLP217, ineffective during germination, increased seedling biomass by 131%. MLP232 performed excellently in both stages, achieving the highest germination rate and 98% biomass increase, with elevated IAA and soluble protein. Physiological profiling demonstrated functional complementarity: MLP161 enhanced nutrient acquisition; MLP246 boosted chlorophyll and antioxidants; and MLP281 increased antioxidant activity but suppressed growth. These results indicate that part Tulasnella strains exhibit stage-specific efficiency and functional complementarity. We recommend using tailored fungal consortia in orchid conservation to synergistically support complete life cycle development, providing a practical framework for safeguarding endangered species like P. malipoense.},
}

@article {pmid42315037,
year = {2026},
author = {Cheng, S and Guan, Y and Gao, J and Sheng, Y},
title = {Niallia circulans Q3 enhances microalgal growth in algae-bacteria symbiotic systems for aquaculture wastewater purification.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135199},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135199},
pmid = {42315037},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Microalgae play an important role in microalgae-bacteria symbiotic systems (MABS), and their growth directly affects purification efficiency. This study investigated the mechanistic role of microalgae growth-promoting bacteria in MABS, focusing on the screened strain Niallia circulans Q3. Through whole-genome sequencing, microscopic characterization, and validation in actual aquaculture effluent, the facilitative effects of Q3 on microalgal proliferation and aquaculture water purification were systematically elucidated. Results indicated that Q3 mitigated oxidative stress via antioxidant defense, promoted microalgal growth through multi-pathway synthesis of phytohormones, and enhanced phosphorus bioavailability through a sugar metabolism-driven acidification-chelation-hydrolysis mechanism. The presence of prophage-encoded auxiliary metabolic genes might further expand the metabolic versatility and stress resilience of the host bacterium, thereby stabilizing the MABS structure. Application in real effluent treatment demonstrated that supplementation with Q3 restructured the inter-algal microbial community, optimized nitrogen and phosphorus metabolic pathways, and significantly increased microalgal biomass and nutrient removal efficiency. This work provides both a theoretical foundation and practical strategies for the development of efficient microalgal production and aquaculture wastewater purification systems.},
}

@article {pmid42315161,
year = {2026},
author = {Jung, P and Werner, L and Brand, R and Briegel-Williams, L and Baumann, K and Letendu, G and Lakatos, M},
title = {Fog, Symbiosis, and Survival: The Ecological Architecture of the Grit Crust From the Atacama Desert Represents a Lichen Holobiome Rather Than a Soil Microbiome.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {28},
number = {6},
pages = {e70350},
doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.70350},
pmid = {42315161},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {JU 3228/1-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; 03WIR4502A//Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung/ ; W2V-Strategy2Value//Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung/ ; 03WIR4516A//Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung/ ; 03WIR4505B//Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung/ ; 724-0079#2024/0004-1501 15404//Ministry of Science and Health Rhineland-Palatinate/ ; 182531//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung/ ; },
mesh = {*Lichens/physiology/classification/microbiology/genetics ; Desert Climate ; *Soil Microbiology ; Chile ; *Symbiosis ; *Microbiota ; Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Ecosystem ; Ascomycota/genetics ; },
abstract = {Biological soil crusts (biocrusts) fulfil key ecological functions in arid ecosystems, yet their microbiome composition remains insufficiently resolved. Here, we characterise the microbial communities of the fog-dependent grit crust in the Pan de Azúcar National Park (Atacama Desert, Chile) using multi-marker metabarcoding (16S rRNA, 18S rRNA, ITS2) across 11 coastal-inland sites. Chlorophylla+b concentrations reached up to 900 mg m[-2], ranking among the highest reported for arid biocrusts and reflecting exceptional fog-sustained productivity. Bacterial assemblages were dominated by Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria, fungal communities by lichenized Ascomycota (Caliciaceae), and eukaryotic diversity by the green algal photobiont genus Trebouxia. Black-pigmented crusts with dense colonisation exhibited higher biomass but lower taxonomic richness, consistent with later-successional, lichen-dominated stages, whereas lighter, less colonised crusts were taxonomically richer yet functionally less integrated, indicative of earlier succession. The prevalence of Trebouxia, lichenized fungi, and lichen-associated bacterial taxa demonstrates that the grit crust microbiome is structured around symbiotic photobiont-mycobiont interactions rather than typical edaphic microbial assemblages. These findings redefine biocrust paradigms by documenting a fog-driven, chlorolichen-based system that bridges the ecological spectrum between lithic lichen communities and conventional soil crusts, establishing a critical baseline for assessing dryland microbial resilience under climate change.},
}

*Lichens/physiology/classification/microbiology/genetics
Desert Climate
*Soil Microbiology
Chile
*Symbiosis
*Microbiota
Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Ecosystem
Ascomycota/genetics

@article {pmid42315406,
year = {2026},
author = {Grewe, F and Lumbsch, HT},
title = {The myth of asexual fungi.},
journal = {Trends in genetics : TIG},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tig.2026.05.012},
pmid = {42315406},
issn = {0168-9525},
abstract = {It was hypothesized that asexuality is common in fungi, but genomic research indicates there is actually a continuum of reduced, rare, or cryptic sexual activity. The symbiotic nature of lichen-forming fungi further complicates their sexual reproduction. Nevertheless, recent studies suggest that these fungi are not entirely asexual.},
}

@article {pmid42316285,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, C and Li, D and Liu, L and Ma, L and Yang, J and Huang, Y and Wang, E and Yuan, H},
title = {Humic Acid-Derived Carbon Dots Promote Soybean Growth via Enhancing Photosynthesis and Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70689},
pmid = {42316285},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {2022YFA0912103//National Key Research and Development Program/ ; //2115 Talent Development Program of China Agricultural University/ ; },
abstract = {Carbon dots (CDs), as a class of carbon-based nanomaterials have been confirmed to have great potential in promoting crop growth, but its molecular mechanism remains largely unknown. In this study, novel soluble humic acid- derived CDs (HA-CDs) was developed and it could promote soybean growth and symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) within a certain concentration range, which significantly lowered than the precursor. Further biochemical and molecular-level analyses revealed that this growth- and SNF-promoting effects of HA-CDs was mainly due to improving the photosynthesis, regulating C/N metabolism and antioxidant enzyme activity of host, and enhancing rhizobial growth and its symbiotic ability with soybeans that depended on the genes rsh and rpoZ. This study provided significant advance in our understanding of the molecular mechanism of HA-CDs on legume growth and nitrogen fixation, as well as the potential application value of HA-CDs in agriculture system.},
}

@article {pmid42316695,
year = {2026},
author = {Kataoka, T and Yoneda, T and Nakane, D and Wada, H},
title = {Bacteria harness torque-induced buckling instability for flagellar wrapping.},
journal = {Physical review. E},
volume = {113},
number = {5-1},
pages = {054402},
doi = {10.1103/ktss-zp41},
pmid = {42316695},
issn = {2470-0053},
mesh = {*Flagella/metabolism ; *Torque ; *Models, Biological ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Hydrodynamics ; Movement ; *Bacterial Physiological Phenomena ; },
abstract = {Recent advances in microscopy techniques has uncovered unique aspects of flagella-driven motility in bacteria. A remarkable example is the discovery of flagellar wrapping, a phenomenon whereby a bacterium wraps its flagellum (or flagellar bundle) around its cell body and propels itself like a corkscrew, enabling locomotion in highly viscous or confined environments. For certain bacterial species, this flagellar-wrapping mode is crucial for establishing selective symbiotic relationships with their hosts. The transformation of a flagellum from an extended to a folded (wrapped) state is triggered by a buckling instability driven by the motor-generated torque that unwinds the helical filament. This study investigated this biologically inspired, novel buckling mechanism through a combination of macroscale physical experiments, numerical simulations, and scaling theory to reveal its underlying physical principles. Excellent quantitative agreement between experiments and numerical results showed that long-range hydrodynamic interactions are essential for accurate quantitative descriptions of the geometrically nonlinear deformation of the helical filament during wrapping. By systematically analyzing extensive experimental and numerical data, we constructed a stability diagram that rationalized the stability boundary through an elastohydrodynamic scaling analysis. Leveraging the scaling nature of this study, we compared our physical results with available biological data and propose that bacteria exploit motor-induced buckling instability to initiate their flagellar wrapping. Our findings indicate that this mechanically driven process is essential to bacterial-wrapping motility and, consequently, plays a critical role in symbiosis and infection.},
}

*Flagella/metabolism
*Torque
*Models, Biological
Biomechanical Phenomena
Hydrodynamics
Movement
*Bacterial Physiological Phenomena

@article {pmid42318087,
year = {2026},
author = {Yeager, EA and Pate, J and Stevens, GMW and Turffs, B and Macdonald, C},
title = {Hiding in Plain Sight: Evidence of Echeneidae Cloacal and Gill Diving Behavior in Manta Ray Hosts.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {5},
pages = {e73548},
pmid = {42318087},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Symbioses between remoras (Family Echeneidae) and marine megafauna are well-documented across diverse lineages. However, despite recent advancements in understanding the intricacies of these interactions, the dynamics of these relationships remain poorly understood, largely due to the highly mobile nature of both host and symbiont. Here we report seven observations of Echeneidae cloacal diving behavior in manta rays. These observations span all three currently described species of manta rays (Mobula yarae, Mobula birostris, and Mobula alfredi), demonstrate that large Echeneidae can perform cloacal diving behavior in both juvenile and adult manta rays, and show that this behavior occurs across multiple ocean basins. We also document one observation of Echeneidae attachment beneath a host's gill slit and several occurrences of gill injuries consistent with Echeneidae intrusion. These observations contribute to the growing database of Echeneidae-host behavioral interactions and provide an important foundation for understanding the extent, diversity, and dynamics underlying these highly debated, cryptic megafauna-symbiont interactions in marine environments. By providing new evidence of the complexity of symbiotic relationships in marine environments, this study also offers a multi-species natural history context that may inform future research and conservation considerations.},
}

@article {pmid42318115,
year = {2026},
author = {Si, Z and Wang, Y and Shen, M and Yu, Y and Wei, F and Lu, Y and Long, X and Yi, Y and Lin, H and Li, Y},
title = {An integrated Msr-antioxidase-host gene circuit maintains redox homeostasis in legume-rhizobium symbiosis.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1811549},
pmid = {42318115},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Methionine sulfoxide reductases (Msrs) play a critical role in oxidative stress resistance; however, their functions in rhizobium-legume symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) are not well understood. In this study, we systematically characterized four Msrs (MsrA1, MsrB1, MsrA2, MsrB2) from Mesorhizobium huakuii 7653R, a symbiotic partner of Astragalus sinicus. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses confirmed the presence of conserved catalytic domains and revealed genus-specific clustering of these Msrs. Expression profiling demonstrated distinct patterns: msrA1 and msrB1 were transiently induced during early symbiotic infection, whereas msrA2 and msrB2 exhibited biphasic upregulation at both early infection and nodule maturation stages. Notably, msrA1 responded specifically to H2O2, and all msr genes were induced by sodium hypochlorite in a concentration-dependent manner. Phenotypic analyses of overexpression (OE) and deletion (Δ) strains indicated that Msrs modulate key bacterial physiological traits. Deletion mutants showed impaired motility, reduced biofilm formation, and decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase), accompanied by elevated intracellular superoxide anion and H2O2 content. In contrast, msrs overexpression enhanced oxidative stress resistance but suppressed bacterial growth. In symbiotic assays, overexpression of msrA1, msrA2, or msrB2 resulted in leaf chlorosis, reduced nodule number, and impaired nitrogen fixation efficiency, while msrA2Δ and msrB2Δ mutants affected nodulation without compromising plant vigor. Further investigation revealed that Msrs regulate host root antioxidant responses and the transcription of symbiotic-related genes (AsNIN, AsNPL2) and defense-related genes (AsFLS2, AsPR10). Bacterial two-hybrid assays identified physical interactions between Msrs and chaperone proteins (GroEL1/2/3), antioxidant enzymes (SodA/B, KatE/G), and the LysR-type transcriptional regulator LsrB, suggesting the formation of an integrated redox regulatory network. Collectively, our findings demonstrate functional specialization of Msrs in M. huakuii 7653R, mediating oxidative stress resistance, bacterial physiology, and host-symbiont crosstalk. We propose a "Msr - antioxidant enzyme - host gene" regulatory model that maintains redox homeostasis during SNF. This study provides novel insights into the roles of rhizobial Msrs and offers potential targets for engineering high-efficiency nitrogen-fixing strains.},
}

@article {pmid42318200,
year = {2026},
author = {Gou, Y and Liu, X and Zhu, W and Yuan, Y and Wang, Y and Xie, Q},
title = {Beyond the 'second brain': the gut microbiota as a constitutive co-constructor of embodied cognitive network.},
journal = {Frontiers in neuroscience},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {1808839},
pmid = {42318200},
issn = {1662-4548},
abstract = {Traditional cognitive science has historically confined the mind within the cranium. While the "second brain" metaphor underscores the autonomy of the enteric nervous system, it remains entrenched in a neurocentric paradigm. Here, we propose a transformative framework: the gut microbiota may function as a constitutively relevant contributor to specific embodied cognitive architectures. We contend that cognition, emotion, and behavior are not fully understandable in brain-isolated terms. Instead, these processes emerge from a sustained, bidirectional dialogue between the host and its symbiotic microbial ecosystem. Integrating 4E cognition theory, we systematically delineate how gut microbiota functions as an embedded signaling system-producing cognitively active metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids and neuroactive substances-to shape interoceptive states and neural function via neural, immune, and metabolic/endocrine interfaces. We establish a rigorous evidential chain, categorized as "deprivation, replacement, observation, and intervention," synthesizing germ-free animal models, fecal microbiota transplantation, human multi-omics, and clinical interventions. These data-drawn from animal models that establish causal necessity and sufficiency, human cohort studies that reveal systematic ecological associations, and proof-of-concept intervention trials that demonstrate clinical plasticity-converge to support the view that microbiota-derived processes may be constitutively relevant to the realization of specific embodied cognitive architectures, especially those organized through interoceptive prediction, affective appraisal, and vagal-metabolic signaling, rather than functioning as merely transient or incidental regulators. The multi-level nature of this evidence base, spanning causal mechanisms in controlled settings to ecological validity in human populations, provides a robust foundation for reframing the gut microbiota as a symbiotic co-constructor of the embodied mind. Ultimately, we move beyond the linear "gut-brain axis" model to outline a multispecies framework for understanding the embodied architectures within which interoceptive, affective, and related cognitive processes unfold. This paradigm shift offers a novel biological foundation for the mind and enables precision interventions for mental health, such as psychobiotics and targeted ecological remodeling. Looking forward, we envision a unified "microbiota-mind" model that integrates computational modeling and ethical frameworks. This endeavor challenges the traditional concept of a "self" bounded by the skin, providing a roadmap for the future of precision psychiatry and cognitive science.},
}

@article {pmid42320468,
year = {2026},
author = {Stuer, N and Leroy, T and Eekhout, T and De Keyser, A and Staut, J and De Rybel, B and Vandepoele, K and Van Damme, P and Van Dingenen, J and Goormachtig, S},
title = {Decoding stage-specific symbiotic programs in the Rhizophagus irregularis-tomato interaction using single-nucleus transcriptomics.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2026.05.057},
pmid = {42320468},
issn = {1879-0445},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) establish a dynamic and asynchronous symbiosis with a wide range of land plants, which involves distinct stages of root colonization and associated cellular responses that co-occur within the same root. While decades of research have significantly advanced our understanding of the plant's symbiotic gene repertoire, this spatial and temporal complexity has hindered a detailed dissection of the molecular mechanisms underlying fungal accommodation. Here, we present the first single-nucleus RNA-sequencing (snRNA-seq) dataset of Solanum lycopersicum roots colonized by Rhizophagus irregularis. Unsupervised subclustering of an arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM)-specific cell population resolves AM-responsive root epidermal cells as well as a developmental gradient of cortical cells across distinct stages of arbuscule formation, thus unveiling stage-specific transcriptional signatures during AMF colonization. Moreover, using motif-informed network inference based on single-cell expression data (MINI-EX), we put forward candidate transcription factors orchestrating these stage-specific transcriptional programs. Together, our data support novel hypotheses on how diverse plant developmental and physiological processes-including localized cell-cycle reactivation and the integration of multiple nutritional cues-are coordinated to facilitate the establishment of a functional symbiosis. As such, this high-resolution dataset serves as a valuable resource for candidate gene prioritization and future reverse genetic studies.},
}

@article {pmid42307410,
year = {2026},
author = {Myers, K and Covington, K and Barcinas, S},
title = {Educator Identity Formation of the Clinical Instructor in Physical Therapy: A Qualitative Exploration.},
journal = {Journal, physical therapy education},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1097/JTE.0000000000000491},
pmid = {42307410},
issn = {1938-3533},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Clinical instructors (CIs) play a vital role in physical therapy education, yet they often face limited support and recognition. Despite these challenges, many clinicians consistently engage in the CI role, suggesting a deeper integration of educator identity within their professional identity. Sustained participation as a CI is essential to clinical education placement capacity and understanding how educator identity supports commitment to the CI role may inform strategies to address placement challenges. The purpose of this study was to explore how physical therapists experience educator identity formation and integrate the CI role into their broader professional identity.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE: Professional identity encompasses the values, skills, and roles that define one's place within a profession. In physical therapy, research has largely focused on the clinician identity, neglecting the educator role. Studies in medicine and nursing reveal tensions between clinician and educator identities, but these findings may not fully apply to the intermittent and voluntary nature of the CI role in physical therapy and have not been fully explored in the physical therapy literature.

SUBJECTS: Thirteen experienced CIs from diverse geographic and practice settings participated.

METHODS: The study used an interpretive qualitative design grounded in Social Cognitive Career Theory. Clinical instructors who had supervised more than 5 full-time students in their career were recruited using Directors of Clinical Education from accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy programs as gatekeepers. Semi-structured interviews explored participants' experiences, motivations, and perceptions of educator identity. Data were analyzed through open and axial coding, followed by thematic analysis.

RESULTS: One overarching theme of Organizational Influence emerged as well as 4 subthemes: Hidden Identity, Symbiotic Roles, Commitment to the Profession, and Community Matters. Participants described educator identity as underrecognized yet deeply connected to their clinical role. Teaching reinforced clinical expertise, reduced burnout, and fostered professional fulfillment. Organizational culture, peer support, and student feedback influenced self-efficacy and sustained engagement as CIs.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Findings highlight the interconnectedness of clinician and educator identities among experienced CIs. Supporting educator identity development through targeted professional development and organizational support may enhance CI engagement and retention. Reframing teaching as integral to clinical excellence offers a promising strategy to advance physical therapy education.},
}

@article {pmid42308412,
year = {2026},
author = {Zeng, Q and Soltaniband, V},
title = {Biological Control Microorganisms that Induce Plant Defense Responses.},
journal = {Annual review of phytopathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1146/annurev-phyto-011325-023109},
pmid = {42308412},
issn = {1545-2107},
abstract = {Some plant-beneficial microbes, including bacteria and fungi, can induce plant defense, enabling plants to resist pathogen infections. Successful defense elicitation depends on compatible host-microbe interactions at multiple stages. The initial interaction begins with plant root exudates, which contain chemical cues that attract beneficial microbes by enhancing their motility, biofilm formation, and expression of symbiosis- and immunity-related genes. In turn, these microbes produce a diverse array of immune elicitors-such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and volatile compounds-that are perceived by plants through various mechanisms. Some elicitors are recognized by membrane-bound pattern recognition receptors, whereas others interact with the plant plasma membrane or cytoplasmic targets such as MYB72 and LOX3. These interactions can either trigger local pattern-triggered immunity, characterized by reactive oxygen species production and activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, or generate long-distance signals such as oxylipins that induce systemic resistance in distal tissues. A central outcome of these interactions is induced systemic resistance, which primes plants for a heightened immune state, enabling faster and stronger defense responses upon a subsequent pathogen challenge. In some cases, beneficial microbes can also trigger salicylic acid-mediated systemic acquired resistance, particularly enhancing resistance against biotrophic pathogens. Furthermore, beneficial microbes must balance immune activation and immune evasion by suppressing microbe-associated molecular pattern-triggered immune responses and avoiding the formation of hyperbiofilm, which allows them to establish a long-term symbiotic relationship with the host.},
}

@article {pmid42310540,
year = {2026},
author = {Kassahun, T and Admas, H},
title = {Interactive effects of field pea genotypes and Rhizobium Leguminosarum strains on nodulation, yield, and nitrogen fixation in Sinana district, Ethiopia.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12870-026-09271-6},
pmid = {42310540},
issn = {1471-2229},
abstract = {Field pea (Pisum sativum L.) is one of the most important food legumes in the highlands of Ethiopia, but its productivity in Sinana District is limited by poor soil fertility and inefficient biological nitrogen fixation (BNF). This study examined the joint effects of field pea genotypes and Rhizobium leguminosarum strains on nodulation, yield, nutrient uptake, and nitrogen fixation in greenhouse and field experiments. Two strains (EAL 300 and EAL 302), their mixture, and a control were compared for three varieties (local, 'Wayitu', and 'Dadimos') in a factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Greenhouse experiments showed that EAL 302 had better survival ability on seeds, competitiveness, and symbiotic efficiency than EAL 300. In the field experiment, significant interactions between genotypes and strains were found for nodulation and straw yield. Inoculation with EAL 302 increased nodule dry weight, plant dry matter, grain yield (2900 kg ha[-1]), straw yield (5633 kg ha[-1]), total Nitrogen (TN) uptake (169.7 kg N ha[-1]), and total nitrogen fixed (242 kg N ha[-1]) significantly compared with the uninoculated control. Among varieties, 'Wayitu' had the highest grain yield (2876 kg ha[-1]) and better nodulation and nutrient uptake. The combination of 'Wayitu' and EAL 302 was found to be the most effective symbiotic combination. The results clearly show that genotype-strain interaction is an important factor in improving BNF and yield. Inoculation with EAL 302, especially 'Wayitu', is recommended as a promising inoculation strategy to improve field pea yield, nitrogen fixation, and soil nitrogen status in Sinana District.},
}

@article {pmid42311224,
year = {2026},
author = {Kumar, J and Kim, SY and Rivera-Sierra, G and Bisquert, J},
title = {Dynamical Symbiosis of Solar Cell and Memristor.},
journal = {ACS energy letters},
volume = {11},
number = {6},
pages = {4512-4517},
pmid = {42311224},
issn = {2380-8195},
abstract = {Memristive devices have attracted significant attention due to their nonlinear dynamics, analog tunability, and ability to emulate synaptic functions. When combined with energy-harvesting components, memristors offer an opportunity to realize self-powered physical AI systems. We demonstrate a solar cell-driven perovskite memristor architecture, which is suitable for autonomous physical AI platforms for light-driven computation. In this system, incident light is directly converted into electrical stimuli by integrated solar cells, which modulate the conductance states of memristors. These conductance changes can encode computational states and learning behaviors, enabling direct processing of optical information without intermediate digital conversion. Such a light-driven memristive system enables simultaneous sensing, energy harvesting, memory storage, and computation within a unified physical structure.},
}

@article {pmid42304885,
year = {2026},
author = {Bradley, JM},
title = {From smoke to symbiosis: dissecting KAI2 signalling in rice using the specific receptor agonist, dMGer.},
journal = {Plant physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/plphys/kiag389},
pmid = {42304885},
issn = {1532-2548},
}

@article {pmid42306250,
year = {2026},
author = {Flores-Borges, DNA and Sisti, LS and Antunes, C and Brum, M and Máguas, C and Mayer, JLS},
title = {Nutrient acquisition of an underground and mycoheterotrophic orchid.},
journal = {AoB PLANTS},
volume = {18},
number = {3},
pages = {plag027},
pmid = {42306250},
issn = {2041-2851},
abstract = {Most species of orchids become autotrophic after the formation of the first leaf develops; however, some mycoheterotrophic species remain achlorophyllous at maturity and non-photosynthetic throughout their entire life cycles, depending on fungal associations for survival. However, the mechanisms governing carbon and nitrogen exchange between mycoheterotrophic plants and their associated fungi remain largely unexplored in neotropical regions. Studies with mycoheterotrophic orchids from tropical regions and different subfamilies contribute to a better understanding of the nutrition mode of these plants, and allow evaluation of the role that morphological and anatomical characteristics play in the mycoheterotrophic way of life. Samples of different individuals of Pogoniopsis schenckii were fixed and subjected to standard anatomical techniques for light microscopy, histochemical tests, transmission and scanning electron microscopy and stable isotope analysis. Pogoniopsis schenckii exhibits two distinct root types: one with acute apex and another with a rounded apex. Fungal hyphae were found in all roots but were not organized into typical pelotons; instead, they were distributed throughout the epidermis and cortex, including within cells associated with starch storage. Our isotopic results suggest that P. schenckii acquires carbon and nitrogen through its symbiotic fungi from the soil. The root system of P. schenckii exhibits two root morphotypes that differ in size, apex shape, and anatomy. The observed patterns of [13]C and [15]N abundances in P. schenckii suggest that this mycoheterotrophic orchid is associated with ectomycorrhizal fungi. Additionally, we described two trends in the degradation of the semi-coiled hyphae found within the epidermal and cortical cells of the two root morphotypes of this mycoheterotrophic species.},
}

@article {pmid42306420,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, J and Liu, Q and Chen, J and Zhou, Y and Zhang, B and Yuan, Z and Li, P and Pang, Z},
title = {Moderate organic-inorganic fertilization optimizes soybean productivity by reshaping rhizosphere microbiome-metabolite networks.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1823609},
pmid = {42306420},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Soybean, a key oilseed and fodder crop, is pivotal for national food security in China. And sustainable soybean production requires fertilization strategies that enhance yield while restoring rhizosphere ecological function. Balancing chemical and organic fertilization is crucial for sustainable soybean production, yet the underlying rhizosphere mechanisms driving crop performance remain underexplored. We conducted a nutrient-equalized gradient substitution experiment comparing chemical fertilizer (CF) with 30%, 70%, and 100% organic fertilizer replacement (OF30, OF70, OF100), investigating the effects on soybean growth, rhizosphere soil properties, bacterial and fungal microbiomes, and metabolomes, while maintaining equivalent nutrient inputs. Moderate organic-inorganic fertilization (30/70% organic substitution, designated as OF30 and OF70) significantly enhanced plant height, root length, biomass, nodulation, nitrogenase activity, photosynthetic capacity, and yield compared to full chemical fertilization (CF, 0% organic) and full organic fertilization (OF100%, 100% organic), the application of 30% organic and 70% inorganic fertilization in combination identified as the optimal strategy. These gains suggest that rhizosphere soil exhibited improved pH, organic carbon, and nutrient availability (K and P), alongside balanced nitrogen. Bacterial communities showed conserved core structure but increased α-diversity and turnover toward metabolically versatile genera (e.g., Flavobacterium, Geobacter, Luteibacter) under organic-inorganic fertilization. Fungal assemblages preserved a stable core while enriching saprotrophic and beneficial guilds (e.g., Serendipita, Chaetomium, Arthrobotrys). Metabolomics revealed conserved profiles with targeted enrichment of carbon-related classes (e.g., glycerophospholipids, flavonoids like delphinidin), supporting microbial activity and plant-microbe signaling. Integrated analyzes indicated that moderate organic substitution (30/70%) reshapes the rhizosphere toward balanced nutrient cycling, enhanced microbiome diversity, and functional metabolite pools, fostering symbiotic interactions and improving nutrient availability. These findings highlight moderate organic-inorganic blending as an optimal strategy for improving soybean productivity and soil health, with implications for sustainable cropping systems.},
}

@article {pmid42298395,
year = {2026},
author = {Montes-Ortiz, Z and Powell, D and Vogel, H and Löfstedt, C and Andersson, MN},
title = {Comparative genomics reveal signatures of ecological specialization in the striped ambrosia beetle Trypodendron lineatum.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42298395},
issn = {1471-2164},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Beetles (Coleoptera) display exceptional dietary diversity and occupy a wide range of ecological niches, often involving close associations with plants and microbes. Ambrosia beetles (Curculionidae; Scolytinae and Platypodinae) exemplify ecological specialization by cultivating mutualistic fungi within galleries excavated in their host trees' xylem, with the fungi serving as their main food source. The striped ambrosia beetle Trypodendron lineatum is a pest of conifers, relying on its nutritional mutualist Phialophoropsis ferruginea for survival. This fungiculture-based lifestyle provides a system for exploring how specialized mutualism is reflected at the genomic level. Hence, we performed a comparative genomics analysis between T. lineatum and nine other beetle species with different ecological specializations. We hypothesized that fungiculture is associated with specific genomic adaptations, including changes in gene family composition related to nutrition, detoxification, and immunity.

RESULTS: The small genome of T. lineatum (74.4-83.6 Mb) exhibits comparatively low levels of repetitive DNA (19.9%), including a reduced proportion of transposable elements. Annotation generated 14,830 high-quality gene predictions, most of which were supported by transcript evidence or functional domains. Comparative orthology analysis across ten beetle species identified 13,896 orthogroups, with T.lineatum having 78 species-specific orthogroups comprising 238 genes. Gene family evolution analyses revealed 33 families with significant size changes in T. lineatum, including 16 expansions and 17 contractions. Notably, gene families associated with digestion, detoxification, and immunity were contracted. These included glycoside hydrolase 28, cytochrome P450, serpin, and trypsin families, which may reflect the fungus-based, rather than plant-based, diet of T. lineatum, and reduced reliance on broad-spectrum immune defenses. In contrast, expansions in the THAP and CD80-like immunoglobulin domain families indicate diversification of genes involved in genomic regulation and immune recognition.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that the genome of T. lineatum is characterized by low repeat content and compact gene architecture. The observed contractions in key gene families involved in plant digestion, detoxification, and immunity may represent genomic signatures of its obligate mutualistic specialization and narrow ecological niche. Our findings provide the first insights into the genomic adaptations of fungus-farming ambrosia beetles, suggesting that co-evolved insect-microbe mutualisms may lead to reductions in a variety of gene families.},
}

@article {pmid42298695,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, P and Liu, C and Pu, W and Zhang, J and Xu, R and Liu, L and Luo, J and Huang, R and Jiang, L and Huan, H and Luo, L and Liu, G and Dong, R and Chen, Z},
title = {Telomere-to-telomere genome of Stylosanthes guianensis uncovers symbiotic adaptation to phosphorus-deficient soils.},
journal = {Genome biology},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42298695},
issn = {1474-760X},
support = {32441034, 32471766, 32371769//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 323CXTD387//Natural Science Foundation of Hainan Province/ ; CARS-22//Earmarked fund for CARS-Green Manure/ ; CARS-34//Earmarked fund for CARS-Forage and Grass/ ; 2024YFD1301203//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis/genetics ; *Fabaceae/genetics/metabolism/physiology ; *Phosphorus/deficiency/metabolism ; *Genome, Plant ; *Telomere/genetics ; *Soil/chemistry ; *Adaptation, Physiological/genetics ; Nitrogen Fixation ; Root Nodules, Plant/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Stylosanthes guianensis, a representative tropical legume, exhibits remarkable adaptation to low-phosphorus acidic soils. As a symbiotic species, it forms root nodule associations with rhizobia to fix atmospheric nitrogen, potentially enhancing phosphate use efficiency. This study aims to decipher the mechanisms linking root nodule symbiosis to low-phosphate adaptation in Stylosanthes guianensis.

RESULTS: We present the first gap-free, telomere-to-telomere genome of Stylosanthes guianensis (1.20 Gb), containing 82.28% repetitive sequences and 34,728 genes, with 99.30% BUSCO completeness and a 29.05 LTR Assembly Index score. Integrated genomic data and multi-omics analyses reveal a coordinated symbiotic strategy. Specifically, roots enhance flavonoid biosynthesis, likely driven by tandem duplication of chalcone reductase genes, to facilitate robust symbiont recruitment, while nodule development was regulated by a conserved network centered on the transcription factor NIN. In nodules, multiple phosphate starvation response pathways are activated, including enhanced phosphate transport and recycling, membrane lipid remodeling, and phosphate-conserving metabolic bypasses to support nitrogen fixation. Furthermore, co-upregulation of vitamin B6 and nitrogen assimilation pathways suggests a role in mitigating oxidative stress and sustaining metabolic balance.

CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals that root nodule symbiosis in Stylosanthes guianensis underpins a multifaceted adaptation to low-phosphate stress, integrating enhanced symbiotic signaling, conserved nodule development, reprogrammed phosphate metabolism, and improved antioxidant protection. These findings provide insights into stress-resilient symbiosis and a genomic foundation for improving nutrient efficiency in legumes.},
}

*Symbiosis/genetics
*Fabaceae/genetics/metabolism/physiology
*Phosphorus/deficiency/metabolism
*Genome, Plant
*Telomere/genetics
*Soil/chemistry
*Adaptation, Physiological/genetics
Nitrogen Fixation
Root Nodules, Plant/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid42298899,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhan, F and Shen, C and Mundock, IM and Ren, Y and Li, H and Xue, Q and Guo, W},
title = {Draft whole-genome and mitochondrial genome assemblies of Steinernema tarimense and Heterorhabditis sp. XJ-55.},
journal = {Journal of helminthology},
volume = {100},
number = {},
pages = {e63},
doi = {10.1017/S0022149X26101667},
pmid = {42298899},
issn = {1475-2697},
support = {32160377//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Genome, Mitochondrial ; *Rhabditida/genetics/classification ; *Genome, Helminth ; Phylogeny ; China ; },
abstract = {Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) from the genera Steinernema and Heterorhabditis are potent biocontrol agents. They kill insects through a unique symbiosis with pathogenic bacteria (Xenorhabdus or Photorhabdus), making them ideal for integrated pest management due to their broad host range and environmental safety. Despite high species diversity, genomic resources for these nematodes remain limited. The aim of this study was to characterise the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes of a newly described species, S. tarimense, and a putative novel Heterorhabditis species (strain XJ-55), both obtained from Xinjiang, China. A comprehensive genomic annotation and analysis were conducted to investigate the evolutionary origins of insect parasitism and the molecular adaptation mechanisms involved in host-parasite interactions. Through Illumina sequencing and de novo assembly, we obtained fragmented yet biologically informative genomes for both species. The assembly of S. tarimense reached a BUSCO completeness of 84.06% with an estimated genome size of 84.27 Mb, while that of Heterorhabditis sp. XJ-55 achieved 92.28% completeness with an estimated size of 75.11 Mb. Functional annotation revealed conserved metabolic profiles between the two species, with the Metabolism category being the most abundant. Mitochondrial genomes were successfully reconstructed using MitoZ and NOVOPlasty, resulting in a complete mitogenome of S. tarimense (13,836 bp) and a partial mitogenome of Heterorhabditis sp. XJ-55 (16,865 bp). Comparative mitogenomic analysis highlighted characteristic features such as pronounced A+T bias and distinct codon usage patterns, providing new evolutionary insights into these genera. These genomic resources establish a foundation for future comparative studies and functional investigations, with promising implications for enhancing the biological control efficacy of EPNs in sustainable agricultural systems.},
}

Animals
*Genome, Mitochondrial
*Rhabditida/genetics/classification
*Genome, Helminth
Phylogeny
China

@article {pmid42299645,
year = {2026},
author = {Paulsen, J and Sharrett, ST and Mumey, D and Larsen, EM and Nguyen, NK and Lendemer, J and Calabria, LM and Hoffman, JR and Magori, K and Allen, JL},
title = {Helitrons are enriched in lichenized fungi with long generation lengths and small distribution sizes.},
journal = {G3 (Bethesda, Md.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/g3journal/jkag153},
pmid = {42299645},
issn = {2160-1836},
abstract = {Transposable elements (TEs) have the potential to drive genome evolution by introducing mutations and causing structural instability and chromosomal rearrangements, particularly under conditions like environmental or genetic stress. In this study, we generated 18 new long-read based metagenomically assembled reference genomes for lichenized fungi, which form obligate mutualistic symbioses with algae or cyanobacteria. We used the new genomes and 10 publicly available genomes to investigate the relationships between species traits (i.e., dominant reproductive mode, distribution size, and generation length) and the abundance and spatial distribution of TEs using a phylogenetic comparative framework. We found that species with smaller distribution sizes and longer generation lengths had a higher genomic DNA transposon load. Specifically, their genomes were enriched with Rolling Circle transposons, which contradicts previous research that has identified high proportions of retrotransposons in rare species. Disproportionate distributions of TEs in rare and range-restricted species may disrupt genomic stability, decrease fitness, and be reflective of species experiencing a greater degree of stress. Conversely, greater TE activity may be an important source of novel genetic diversity in isolated populations with limited gene flow. Further research is needed to understand the potential mechanisms driving TE proliferation in rare species' genomes, and if TE content is predictive of increased extinction risk.},
}

@article {pmid42300248,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, YJ and Hwang, HJ and Lee, J and Park, HS and Son, J and Seyedsayamdost, M and Bae, M and Lee, SR and Kwon, Y},
title = {Natural products with atypical atoms: unveiling structures, biosynthetic pathways, and bioactivities.},
journal = {Natural product reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5np00083a},
pmid = {42300248},
issn = {1460-4752},
abstract = {Covering: 1944-2025Nature's biosynthetic repertoire extends far beyond conventional CHON(S) chemistry and encompasses a rare but diverse array of natural products that incorporate atypical elements such as arsenic, selenium, fluorine, iodine, boron, and vanadium. These metabolites reveal how living systems have evolved to harness atypical atoms through both enzyme-mediated and spontaneous chemical strategies. Biological C-F and Se-C bond formation, SAM-dependent arsenic methylation, and non-enzymatic boron complexation exemplify nature's ingenuity in overcoming extreme energetic or coordination constraints. Despite their scarcity, these compounds play critical ecological and physiological roles in detoxification and redox regulation (As, Se), defense, and signaling (F, I, B), and in some cases, sustain global biogeochemical cycles (Mo, V). Structurally, they exhibit exceptional chemical stability, redox versatility, and metal-ligand diversity. Functionally, these findings expand our understanding of enzyme evolution, chemical defense strategies, and symbiotic metabolism in both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Recent genomic and biochemical advances have uncovered new families of atypical natural products and the specialized enzymes responsible for their formation. Taken together, these discoveries define the limits of biogenic chemistry and highlight promising avenues for sustainable biocatalysis and drug discovery, particularly in the fluorination, selenation, and boronation pathways that bridge biological and synthetic chemistry.},
}

@article {pmid42301021,
year = {2026},
author = {Echeverry-Pérez, JS and Castelli, M and Muñoz-Leal, S and Nava, S and Sassera, D and Sánchez-Vialas, A and Olmeda, AS and Valcárcel, F and Uribe, JE},
title = {Genomic evolution of Francisella: metabolic innovation, endosymbiotic transitions to ticks, and biogeographic history.},
journal = {Genome biology and evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/gbe/evag135},
pmid = {42301021},
issn = {1759-6653},
abstract = {Ticks (Ixodida) are the second most important vectors of infectious diseases in vertebrates, after mosquitoes. Beyond vector roles, they maintain mutualistic associations with bacteria, including endosymbionts that provide essential B vitamins lacking in their blood-based diet. The most extensively studied endosymbionts belong to the genera Coxiella, Midichloria, and Francisella. The genus Francisella encompasses endosymbionts (FE), pathogens (FP), opportunistic pathogens (FO) and free-living environmental strains (FL), making it a powerful system for evolutionary and comparative genomic analyses. In this study, total DNA from six adult female ticks of the genera Hyalomma and Amblyomma was sequenced to generate new FE genomes. Seven deeply sequenced public metagenomes were also assembled, yielding 71 Francisella and three Allofrancisella strains. This dataset supported phylogenomic reconstruction and comparison of genomic features, including vitamin biosynthesis and virulence pathways, with a focus on transitions to tick endosymbiosis. A densely sampled MLST phylogeny was constructed to explore biogeographic patterns. Our results show that, except for FE, no ecological trait is monophyletic, supporting an origin of Francisella diversity from free-living ancestors. Biogeography suggests Palearctic and Afrotropical FE strains are derived and may involve horizontal transfers. Francisella comparative genomics reveals two contrasting profiles: environmental generalists and host-restricted specialists. These findings reinforce the role of tick FEs as nutritional mutualists, retaining key pathways such as riboflavin, shikimate, and biotin biosynthesis. In contrast, virulence is not ancestrally conserved but an innovation in pathogenic lineages, largely degraded in tick FEs. These results advance understanding of endosymbiont evolution and provide genomic insights with potential for disease control.},
}

@article {pmid42301407,
year = {2026},
author = {Paddock, KJ and Eastman, KE and Chen, JZ and Gerardo, NM and Corcoran, JA},
title = {Brain and antennal transcriptome changes are linked to colonization-mediated behavioral switch in an environmentally transmitted symbiosis.},
journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jeb/voag047},
pmid = {42301407},
issn = {1420-9101},
abstract = {Many organisms engage in symbiosis with microbial partners that are not passed on directly to offspring but are acquired from the environment each generation. Hosts can minimize the risk of relying on such horizontal transmission of beneficial symbionts by engaging in specialized acquisition behaviors. Squash bugs, Anasa tristis, locate their Caballeronia symbiont through olfactory cues released from adult frass. After ingesting the symbiont, nymph behavior shifts from symbiont searching to host plant feeding. To begin to elucidate the underlying changes behind this behavioral switch, we generated transcriptomes from heads of second instar squash bugs that had recently acquired their symbiont and compared them to those of aposymbiotic controls. Inoculation with Caballeronia significantly impacted overall gene expression. Functional enrichment revealed significant changes in transporter and peptidase activity in response to symbiont colonization, suggesting a strong signaling cascade between midgut crypts and the brain. Given the role of olfaction in symbiont acquisition, we manually annotated odorant receptors and odorant binding proteins, two important gene families involved in olfaction. We identified one odorant receptor and two odorant binding proteins that responded to symbiont colonization. We then evaluated the phylogenetic relationship of all identified odorant receptors and odorant binding proteins to those of other hemipterans to identify functionally relevant clades. These results highlight the tight physiological coupling that can evolve between insects and their horizontally acquired microbial symbionts and will inform future research on microbially mediated changes in insect behavior.},
}

@article {pmid42302289,
year = {2026},
author = {Bosseno, M and Demba, A and Horta Araújo, N and Colinet, D and Israel, A and Pacoud, M and Maucourt, M and El Fazaa, Y and Jacob, D and Lepetit, M and Rolin, D and Brouquisse, R and Boscari, A},
title = {Functional divergence and symbiotic significance of nitrate reductase isoforms in Medicago truncatula.},
journal = {Plant physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/plphys/kiag377},
pmid = {42302289},
issn = {1532-2548},
abstract = {Nitrate reductase (NR) is a key enzyme in nitrate assimilation, yet its function within nodules remains poorly understood. In Medicago truncatula, three NR genes, MtNR1, MtNR2, and MtNR3, exhibit distinct evolutionary origins and regulatory features. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that NR3-type genes, originated from a duplication of NR1 within Inverted Repeat-Lacking Clade (IRLC) legumes, have lost the conserved phosphorylation sites critical for post-translational regulation. To assess the functional significance of these isoforms, we characterized single and double nr mutants obtained through Tnt1 transposon insertion under nitrate nutrition and during symbiosis. MtNR1 is the primary contributor to total NR activity: with nr1 and nr2 mutants retaining around 10% and 30% of wild-type levels, respectively. The nr1/nr2 double mutant shows an almost complete loss of NR activity and fails to survive under nitrate supply, demonstrating the essential and non-redundant roles of both isoforms. Under symbiotic conditions, single mutants displayed normal nodulation, whereas nodule development was nearly abolished in the double mutant despite continued MtNR3 expression. In addition to its role in nitrogen assimilation, single nr mutants showed increased sensitivity to hypoxic stress and impaired recovery of nitrogen fixation, revealing a role for NR in nodule energy metabolism through the phytoglobin-NO respiration pathway. We propose that the combined loss of NR1 and NR2 disrupts NO cycling linked to mitochondrial electron transport, thereby compromising the energy balance required for symbiosis under microoxic conditions. This work provides a framework to investigate NR diversification in legumes and opens perspectives for improving nitrogen fixation under environmental constraints.},
}

@article {pmid42302730,
year = {2026},
author = {Bisschop, A and Risling, T and Nowell, L},
title = {Reconfiguring Nursing: The Philosophical Impact of Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence on Person-Centered Nursing Practice.},
journal = {ANS. Advances in nursing science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42302730},
issn = {1550-5014},
abstract = {As digital technologies and artificial intelligence reshape health care, nursing's humanistic foundations face profound ontological and epistemological transformations. In this paper we analyze the tensions between technological efficiency and relational presence, arguing that "datafication" risks eroding the humanness in clinical care. By synthesizing these tensions through a constructivist lens, we propose the Integrated Dimensions of Technology and Care Framework which positions technological competence and compassionate care as symbiotic, mutually reinforcing dimensions. The framework provides a conceptual structure for improved understanding around how technology and compassionate care can connect in a way that ensures person-centered care remains paramount.},
}

@article {pmid42303510,
year = {2026},
author = {Gómez de Las Heras, MM and Mittelbrunn, M},
title = {T cell control of the intestinal barrier and gut microbiota during ageing.},
journal = {Trends in immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.it.2026.05.001},
pmid = {42303510},
issn = {1471-4981},
abstract = {The epithelial, microbial, and immune components of the intestinal barrier coexist in harmony to prevent undesirable inflammatory outcomes and ensure homeostasis in the host. In this review, we outline molecular mechanisms by which T cells regulate intestinal homeostasis and how the ageing-associated dysfunction of T cells could disturb host-microbiota symbiosis and the physical integrity of the intestinal barrier, ultimately driving inflammageing and poor health outcomes. Finally, we propose microbiota- and T cell-based therapeutic interventions aimed at strengthening the intestinal barrier to promote healthier longevity. Namely, we discuss the transplantation of youthful microbiota, the use of designed probiotics, and the adoptive transfer of competent or engineered T cells.},
}

@article {pmid41114903,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Z and Li, H and Tang, G and Wu, J and Zhang, Z and Huang, R and Cao, Y},
title = {Heterologous expression of nodulation signaling pathway genes enhances grain yield in rice.},
journal = {Plant molecular biology},
volume = {115},
number = {6},
pages = {115},
pmid = {41114903},
issn = {1573-5028},
support = {2024YFA0918200//the National Key R&D Program of China/ ; 32160430//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Rhizobial symbiosis, a crucial source of nitrogen for legume hosts, is thought to have evolved from mycorrhizal symbiosis. Both symbioses share a common symbiotic signaling pathway (CSSP) in plants. One hypothesis is that the lack of nodulation-specific genes in the genome of mycorrhizal symbiotic plants limits their ability to establish rhizobial interactions. Here, we introduced nine key genes in nodulation pathway, including NFR1, NFR5, SYMRK, CCaMK, CYCLOPS, NSP1, NSP2, LHK1, and NIN) from Lotus japonicus, into rice (Oryza sativa ssp. japonica cv. Zhonghua 11) to create Nodulation Signaling Pathway Overexpression (NSPO) rice. Analysis of gene expression showed that NFR5 and CCaMK were robustly transcribed in transgenic rice roots determined by qPCR. SYMRK, CYCLOPS, NSP2, and NFR1 showed relatively low transcript abundance, while transcripts of NIN, NSP1, and LHK1 were not detected. NSPO rice did not exhibit enhanced rhizobial colonization at the roots but increased formation of 2,4-D-induced nodule-like structures at the ratoon roots compared to the wild type. Remarkably, field trials demonstrated higher grain yield in NSPO rice, despite a slight reduction in seed-setting rate. Additionally, the expression of immune-related transcription factor genes was downregulated in NSPO rice. These findings suggest that heterologous expression of nodulation-related genes can promote rhizobial interaction and improve agronomic traits, such as yield in non-leguminous crops.},
}

@article {pmid41489731,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, X and Suo, D and Zhao, B and Gao, Y and Xu, W and Pan, F},
title = {Research progress in plant endophyte-mediated lignocellulosic biomass degradation and valorization: a review.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {2},
pages = {82},
pmid = {41489731},
issn = {1432-072X},
support = {QKPTRC[2019]-035//the Science and Technology Plan Project of Guizhou, China/ ; 202310661078//he Undergraduate Training Program for Innovation and Entrepreneurship of Zunyi Medical University/ ; ZYDC202402136//the Undergraduate Training Program for Innovation and Entrepreneurship of Zunyi Medical University/ ; QKHJC-ZK[2023]YB524//and the Science and Technology Foundation of Guizhou Province/ ; },
abstract = {Endophytes establish persistent symbiotic relationships within healthy plant tissues, with certain strains demonstrating robust lignocellulose degradation capabilities, positioning them as promising biocatalysts for efficient biomass conversion. These endophytes present significant advantages in sustainable straw utilization, biosynthesis of valuable bioactive compounds, advancement of bioenergy production technologies, and the development of bio-fertilizers. This review systematically evaluates recent advancements in lignocellulose-degrading endophytes (LDE) research, addressing critical scientific aspects including strain selection, identification, host and strain distribution characteristics, enzymatic system properties, and industrial applications. Strain screening incorporates comprehensive phenotypic, enzymatic, and genomic analyses, while identification relies on integrated morphological, metabolic, and molecular genetic markers. The primary LDE producers are predominantly Ascomycota fungi and Proteobacteria bacteria, which preferentially colonize dicotyledonous plants through diverse symbiotic mechanisms. Lignocellulose degradation is mediated by a sophisticated enzymatic system, whose activity can be enhanced through carbon source induction and strain optimization strategies. Co-cultivation systems have demonstrated synergistic effects in improving degradation efficiency. Furthermore, endophytic metabolites exhibit broad applicability, facilitating lignocellulose breakdown in agricultural residues to yield high-value natural products and renewable energy sources, et al. The degradation efficiency of endophytes is intrinsically linked to their evolutionary adaptations and functional genomic modules. Recent studies indicate that a “dual carbon” strategy has significantly enhanced research on LDE, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural residue conversion and contributing to carbon neutrality objectives.},
}

@article {pmid41746517,
year = {2026},
author = {Jana, S and Raha, S},
title = {Biosynthesis of auxin and other plant growth-promoting traits from novel endophyte Fusarium incarnatum SELC2 and its in vitro plant growth-promoting efficacy on rice (Oryza sativa L.).},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41746517},
issn = {1573-0972},
abstract = {Endophytic fungi in symbiotic relationships with their host plants are recognized for promoting plant growth and mitigating the detrimental impacts of both abiotic and biotic challenges. However, due to limited knowledge of plant growth-promoting microorganisms coupled with Pteridophytes, the objective of this investigation was to identify and characterize the fungal endophytes from Selaginella ciliaris (Retz.) Spring. The endophytic fungus Fusarium incarnatum SELC2 was isolated and identified via the 18S rDNA sequencing. The isolates exhibited phosphate solubilization, ammonia production, and extracellular enzyme production activities, and had the capacity to generate indole acetic acid (IAA) whether L-tryptophan was present or not. This research explores the optimization of a number of environmental and nutritional aspects for IAA production using Central Composite Design (CCD) with Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The ambient temperature for incubation was 34℃, pH of 6.5, incubation time of 6 days, 0.35 g/L tryptophan, and 30 g/L sucrose were identified as the ideal parameters for achieving the highest IAA production. The refined IAA was analyzed using HPTLC and HPLC, showing a pink band with an Rf value of 0.92 and a peak at 2.5 min, consistent with standard IAA. Furthermore, the impact of endophyte on the initial growth parameters of Oryza sativa L. was assessed using three rice varieties, confirming that SELC2 is a significant isolate for promoting rice vegetative growth parameters, and notable changes have been observed in the photosynthetic pigments, sugar, protein, and antioxidative enzymes across both fungal extract treatments, as well as in co-inoculation.},
}

@article {pmid41774391,
year = {2026},
author = {Neves, MAS and de Paulo, RS and Bressan, J and Pereira, SS and Kravchychyn, ACP and Hermsdorff, HHM},
title = {Kefir and Its By-Products Supplementation Reduces Inflammation and Oxidative Stress, Improves Intestinal Barrier Integrity, and Modulates the Gut Microbiota in Animal Models of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41774391},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {Kefir is a beverage obtained by fermenting milk or sugary solutions with a symbiotic community of bacteria and yeasts, presenting promising antimicrobial, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. This systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence from preclinical studies evaluating the effects of kefir or its by-products on biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and gut health in animal models of IBD. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, utilizing the PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus databases. The quality of the studies was assessed using SYRCLE’s Risk of Bias tool. Sixteen experimental studies were included, comprising 585 rodents with chemically induced colitis. The interventions included traditional milk kefir, rice and water kefir, as well as isolated microorganisms and kefir-derived supernatants. Most studies reported reductions in inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and inflammatory enzymes (iNOS, COX-2, MPO), along with increases in anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, IL-4). Reductions in MDA and H2O2 were reported, supporting the antioxidant effects of kefir and its derivatives. Changes in antioxidant enzyme activity, including SOD, were also observed. In addition, kefir modulated gut microbiota composition, upregulated the expression of tight junction proteins, and influenced immune and molecular signaling pathways. Improvements were also observed in clinical parameters of IBD models, including disease activity index, rectal bleeding, and histological damage. Kefir and its derivatives exhibit beneficial effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, gut permeability, and immune modulation in animal models of IBD, suggesting a potential alternative for treating these diseases in humans. Although the findings are promising, heterogeneity among study protocols and methodological limitations highlight the need for further studies. Registration PROSPERO number: CRD420251062931.},
}

@article {pmid41803332,
year = {2026},
author = {Roy, S and Soumen, S and Arp, JT and Kaur, J and Bhowmick, R and Pettit, T and Choudhury, S and Das, TK and Nayaka, SC and Mandal, SN and Mallikarjuna, MG and Sanyal, D},
title = {From soil to sequences: mechanisms and tools unravelling plant-rhizomicrobiome interactions.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41803332},
issn = {1573-0972},
abstract = {The rhizosphere of a plant represents a dynamic interface where interactions with diverse microbial communities drive nutrient cycling, stress tolerance, and crop performance. As agricultural systems increasingly face challenges such as soil degradation, extreme climate variability, and resource limitations, understanding rhizomicrobiome functions and developing sustainable strategies to enhance them has become central to sustainable crop production. This review summarizes current knowledge of plant–rhizomicrobiome interactions, emphasizing the biological mechanisms and signaling pathways that regulate nutrient acquisition, abiotic and biotic stress responses, and rhizosphere microbial communities. It integrates evidence from symbiotic signaling, immune regulation, and microbial communication to demonstrate how coordinated plant–microbe interactions produce emergent effects on plant health and soil function. The review also examines how advances in molecular and omics-based technologies have transformed rhizomicrobiome research by enabling culture-independent, high-resolution analysis of microbial diversity, activity, and function within complex soil environments. Genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and related functional approaches have collectively shifted the field from descriptive community profiling toward mechanistic understanding. By synthesizing insights from biological mechanisms and molecular tools that have revealed plant–microbe interactions in the rhizosphere, this review offers an integrated framework for interpreting rhizomicrobiome function and linking molecular discoveries to improved production outcomes in agricultural systems. Collectively, these advances establish the rhizomicrobiome as a tractable biogeochemical system for exploring and enhancing soil health and crop resilience in sustainable agriculture.},
}

@article {pmid41806195,
year = {2026},
author = {Bavani, U and Sangwan, S and Narwal, E and Agnihotri, R and Prasanna, R and Bana, RS},
title = {Belowground-Aboveground climate allies: arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi as ecosystem bridges for greenhouse gas mitigation.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41806195},
issn = {1573-0972},
abstract = {Climate change, fuelled by rising greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, threatens ecosystems and global food security, necessitating innovative nature-based solutions. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), an ancient underground symbiosis, emerge as potent climate allies with the capacity to mitigate GHG emissions and enhance ecosystem resilience. By promoting root-derived carbon inputs, stabilizing soil aggregates, and producing glomalin, AMF enhance soil carbon sequestration, contributing to long-term soil organic matter storage. In wetland and rice systems, they influence methane dynamics by suppressing methanogenesis and stimulating methanotrophy. Their pivotal role in nitrogen cycling—improving plant N uptake efficiency and modulating nitrifier–denitrifier communities—helps lower nitrous oxide emissions, linking below-ground processes to above-ground climate benefits. Evidence across ecosystems shows that AMF-mediated functions are context-dependent and are influenced not only by agricultural management practices but also by broader anthropogenic activities (e.g., land-use change, fertilizer application, pollution) and climatic factors (e.g., temperature, precipitation, drought), yet they can be strengthened through sustainable management practices, including reduced tillage, cover cropping, and targeted inoculation. Recent molecular and omics-based insights, encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, and synthetic consortia approaches, provide mechanistic understanding and strategies to harness AMF for climate-smart agriculture. Despite their promise, methodological constraints, environmental variability, and limited long-term field studies have restricted their integration into policy and carbon accounting frameworks. Developing standardized indicators, ecosystem-specific models, and precision deployment strategies will be critical to scale AMF’s climate impact. Leveraging these underground allies can reduce GHG emissions, improve soil health, and support sustainable agricultural intensification, bridging below-ground symbioses with above-ground climate mitigation and global sustainability goals.},
}

@article {pmid41854803,
year = {2026},
author = {Das, A and Das, T and Ghosh, Z and Siddhanta, A},
title = {An intronic bidirectional promoter-driven lncRNA (LjPLR) putatively modulates a late nodulin gene during nodulation in Lotus japonicus.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41854803},
issn = {1573-4978},
support = {EMR/2017/004234//Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The development and functioning of root nodules in legumes are regulated by a cascade of gene expression events involving early and late nodulins. Early nodulins participate in infection and cortical cell division, whereas late nodulins support mature nodule function. Previously, a unique late nodulin gene, LjPLP-IV (Lotus japonicus phosphatidylinositol transfer protein-like protein IV), was identified. This gene contains a bidirectional promoter (BiP) within its tenth intron that drives the expression of both an antisense RNA and another late nodulin transcript. However, the antisense transcript remained largely unexplored. METHODS AND RESULTS: In this study, we characterized a novel long non-coding RNA, LjPLR (L. japonicus PLP-IV lncRNA), through strand-specific transcriptome analysis of L. japonicus nodules. Sequence alignment revealed that LjPLR is highly complementary to the sense strand of LjPLP-IV, with its first exon aligning precisely at the tenth exon–intron boundary of the LjPLP-IV gene. These results strongly suggest that LjPLR corresponds to the previously reported antisense RNA transcribed from the BiP. Real-time PCR analysis further demonstrated an inverse temporal expression pattern between LjPLR and LjPLP-IV during nodule development. CONCLUSION: Together with in silico target prediction analyses, our findings indicate that LjPLP-IV is the sole putative target of LjPLR. We therefore hypothesize that LjPLR likely regulates LjPLP-IV, a gene implicated in rhizobial infection of root cortical cells in L. japonicus. Collectively, these results provide novel insight into the regulatory landscape underlying symbiotic nitrogen fixation in L. japonicus.},
}

@article {pmid41920196,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, P and Singh, S and Praveen, A},
title = {Exploring the link between heavy metals detoxification and crop improvements.},
journal = {Protoplasma},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41920196},
issn = {1615-6102},
abstract = {Heavy metal (HM)/metalloids stresses have a detrimental effect on agriculture and the ecosystem because they impose severe strains on plants, which are sessile by nature, and cause extreme economic losses. It is imperative to safeguard crop plants from HMs to maintain sustainable agriculture and meet the global need for food from an ever-increasing population. Anthropogenic activities provide a threat to agricultural soils by contaminating them with toxic HMs, which can lead to an excessive build-up of arsenic (As), aluminium (Al), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg) in food crops. This offers serious health concerns to humans since they got merged into the food chain. Finding ways to stop these harmful metals from building up in food requires knowing how plants absorb, move, and break down these toxins. Therefore, in the present study, universal distribution, toxicity of HMs and their emergence in the food chain, uptake and transport, detoxification mechanisms in plants, and ways of crop improvement under HM stress conditions have been explored. Conventional remediation methods can be costly, labor intensive, and environmentally disruptive. HMs/metalloids generate oxidative stress, disrupts cellular homeostasis, inhibits photosynthesis, and interfered with nutritional uptake leading to significant yield losses in plants. To cope up these stresses, plants utilize complex molecular mechanisms for resilience such as antioxidant enzymes activation, metal’ transporters upregulation, formation of metal chelation complexes, and variation of stress related genes and transcription factors. In contrast bioremediation offers a sustainable and ecofriendly alternative by leveraging the detoxification capabilities of plants, microbes, and their symbiotic interactions. Practices like phytoremediation, microbial-assisted remediation, and combined approaches involving nanobiochar, biostimulants, and organic amendments have established promising outcomes in restoring HMs/metalloids contaminated soil. In this study we have attempted to outline the different HMs/metalloids toxicity, uptake, and detoxification in one place. This would reduce the obstacles to agricultural output and the world’s food demands while also assisting in understanding the better HMs’ resilience in crop plants.},
}

@article {pmid41933120,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, QC and Xu, M and Wei, S and Yang, QP and Zhang, J},
title = {The effects of ectomycorrhizal fungi inoculation on alleviating Cd stress in Pinus massoniana seedlings.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41933120},
issn = {1573-0972},
support = {31660150//National Nature Science Foundation of China (NSFC) project/ ; 31960234//National Nature Science Foundation of China (NSFC) project/ ; DJ-ZDXM-2023-07//Technology Project of Power Construction Corporation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF), through their symbiotic associations with plants, can effectively alleviate heavy metal toxicity in plants. Therefore, we inoculated Pinus massoniana with Suillus luteus and Suillus bovinus and exposed them to different Cd concentrations (0 mg/L and 80 mg/L CdCl2) for 20 days. Single inoculation with S. luteus and S. bovinus promoted root growth and differentiation to varying degrees, enhanced the glutathione reductase (GR) and catalase (CAT) levels in leaves. The glutathione (GSH) contents decreased in leaves and roots, whereas the malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased (although it remained significantly (p < 0.05) lower than that in the CK group. Total nitrogen (TN) decreased in leaves and roots, whereas Ca, Mg, and Mn increased in the leaves, and Fe, Mg, and Mn increased in the roots. The Cd leaf and root levels were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in the inoculated groups than in the CK. Mixed inoculation with S. luteus and S. bovinus resulted in higher Cd-translocation rates than single inoculation, whereas the Cd-retention rate was lower than found with single inoculation. These results indicate that EMF mitigate Cd-stress responses by promoting root growth, regulating nutrient element uptake, and enhancing antioxidant defense systems. These findings indicate that mycorrhizal symbiosis plays a potential role in Cd phytoremediation.},
}

@article {pmid41996045,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohanty, A and Pavan-Kumar, A and Chaudhari, A and Kumari, K and Kumar, P and Maurye, P},
title = {Comparative performance of traditional and commercial DNA extraction methods for fish gut microbiota analysis.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41996045},
issn = {1573-4978},
support = {FBT-PB1-01//Indian Council of Agricultural Research/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The symbiotic relationship between gut microbiota and their fish hosts has fuelled extensive research into microbial distribution besides their active role in host body metabolisms and paving the way for the sustainable aquaculture. This study aims to optimize and evaluate DNA extraction techniques for characterizing the gut microbiota of fish with diverse feeding habits: Hilsa (planktivorous), Catla (zooplankton feeder), Rohu (herbivorous), and Mrigal (illiophagus). METHODS AND RESULTS: Microbial genomic DNA was extracted using five traditional methods—PLICKS A, B, C, and CTAB (Methods D and E)—and three commercial kits (MN® Microbial, MN® Soil, and MN® Faecal), each with modifications. The efficacy of these methods was assessed based on DNA yield (traditional: 74–3070 ng/µL; commercial: 8.8–224 ng/µL), purity (traditional: A260/280: 1.38–1.92, A260/230: 1.03–2.21; commercial: A260/280: 1.30–3.25, A260/230: 0.5–2.0), and successful PCR amplification, a key step for downstream 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. Among traditional methods, PLICKS A (Catla), PLICKS C (Hilsa), CTAB (Mrigal and Catla), and PLICKS B (Catla, Rohu, Hilsa, Mrigal) delivered the highest DNA recovery (342–2080 ng/µL) and purity across different species. Similarly, among commercial kits, the MN® Microbial Modified Kit (Catla, Hilsa), MN® Soil Kit (Hilsa), MN® Soil Modified Kit (Catla, Rohu), MN® Faecal Kit (Catla), and MN® Modified Faecal Kit excelled, achieving optimal DNA recovery (108–224 ng/µL) and purity across various feeding habits. Overall, among traditional methods, PLICKS B proved to be the most effective, delivering high DNA yields (342–2080 ng/µL) with excellent purity (A260/280: 1.77–1.92; A260/230: 1.67–2.21) and enabling successful PCR amplification across fish species with diverse feeding habits. Similarly, among commercial kits, the MN Modified Faecal Kit achieved the highest DNA recovery (108–224 ng/µL) and purity (A260/280: 1.74–1.90; A260/230: 1.78–2.01), consistently supporting reliable amplification. CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight effective DNA extraction methods tailored to fish with different feeding habits. Careful selection and optimization of extraction protocols are therefore essential for the accurate characterization of fish gut microbiota.},
}

@article {pmid42020671,
year = {2026},
author = {Cruz, D and Saati-Santamaria, Z and Achury-Arrubla, L and Garcia-Fraile, P},
title = {From Wild to Farm: Gut Bacteriome Differences and Probiotic Potential of Pantoea Agglomerans in Two-Spotted Cricket (Gryllus Bimaculatus) Rearing.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42020671},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in insect nutrition and performance, yet its targeted exploitation in cricket farming remains underexplored. Here, we combined gut microbiota profiling of wild and farmed Gryllus bimaculatus with probiotic testing of host-derived bacterial isolates to explore microbiome-informed strategies for sustainable cricket farming. Wild crickets exhibited higher Shannon diversity but lower phylogenetic diversity than farmed counterparts. Wild populations were enriched in Oscillospiraceae and Christensenellaceae families, while farmed crickets showed higher abundance of Parabacteroides. From 199 bacterial isolates, wild populations showed higher frequencies of uricolytic capabilities (44% vs. 31%), related to nitrogen recycling, while farmed crickets had more pectinolytic isolates (70% vs. 50%), linked to plant fiber degradation. Pantoea agglomerans I53BLB, which demonstrated broad enzymatic capabilities, was selected for probiotic evaluation; we further provide its genome sequence and analysis to contextualize its metabolic and probiotic potential. A feeding experiment with a 2 × 3 factorial design (two diets × three probiotic treatments, n = 10 replicates per group) compared control chicken feed versus a high-fiber diet formulated with agricultural by-products, each supplemented with water, live or heat-inactivated P. agglomerans. A significant diet × probiotic interaction was observed for weight gain (χ[2] = 18.8, p = 0.0021) and adult emergence (χ[2] = 17.7, p = 0.0033). Live P. agglomerans enhanced performance only when combined with the high-fiber diet, with individuals reaching a mean wet weight of 0.602 g compared to 0.451 g (heat-inactivated, p = 0.035) and 0.427 g (water control, p = 0.003), and a significantly higher adult emergence rate (37%) compared to all other treatment combinations (13%, p < 0.05), suggesting a symbiotic effect likely related with carbohydrate digestion. No effects were observed on survival or reproductive output. Notably, the high-fiber diet alone performed comparably to commercial feed, suggesting potential for sustainable cricket production using agricultural by-products. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of microbiome informed probiotic strategies to enhance cricket farming efficiency while reducing feed costs.},
}

@article {pmid42020676,
year = {2026},
author = {Purohit, HV and Chakraborty, J and Kothari, RK and Bhatt, AR},
title = {Gene Exchange Mechanisms in Natural and Engineered Probiotics Within the Human Gut Implications for Antibiotic Resistance and Metabolic Modulation.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42020676},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {The human gut microbiome is a dynamic and densely populated ecosystem where microbial gene exchange plays a central role in shaping both ecological interactions and host physiology. This review critically examines the mechanisms and implications of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) among natural and engineered probiotics within the human gut, with a specific focus on antibiotic resistance dissemination and metabolic modulation. We provide an in-depth analysis of the molecular pathways of conjugation, transformation, and transduction under anaerobic gut conditions, highlighting their roles in the spread of mobile genetic elements, including antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and functional metabolic traits. Special emphasis is placed on the dual nature of gene exchange: while beneficial traits such as vitamin biosynthesis and polysaccharide degradation can be horizontally acquired to enhance probiotic efficacy and host-microbe symbiosis, the uncontrolled dissemination of ARGs or synthetic constructs poses significant clinical and ecological risks. Through a synthesis of recent findings from metagenomics, microbial ecology, and synthetic biology, we explore how natural probiotics may act as reservoirs of ARGs, and how engineered strains—if not properly contained—may contribute to genetic instability in the gut. We also evaluate current containment strategies such as chromosomal integration, kill switches, auxotrophy, and orthogonal circuit design to limit horizontal spread, alongside emerging tools for in situ gene transfer monitoring. Finally, we discuss regulatory challenges and propose a context-dependent risk assessment framework in which the consequences of probiotic gene exchange are determined by cargo properties, host ecological niche, gut inflammatory status, and biocontainment design.},
}

@article {pmid42032013,
year = {2026},
author = {Carrizosa, R and Padilla, I and Romero, M and López-Delgado, A},
title = {Harnessing salt slag and diatomite sludge by co-recycling for zeolite production.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-50164-3},
pmid = {42032013},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {Developing alternative uses for waste is one of the main concerns of modern industry, as proper waste management is necessary to pave the way towards a circular economy and sustainability. In this study, the sustainable synthesis of zeolites using salt slag, a hazardous waste product from the secondary aluminium industry, and diatomite sludge, an agri-food waste product, was explored. The aluminium salt slag and diatomite sludge served as the aluminium and silicon sources, respectively, for the LTA and NaP zeolite formulations through a one-pot hydrothermal process. The key synthesis parameters, temperature (70–90 °C), reaction time (2–24 h), and NaOH concentration (0.38–1 M), were systematically varied to adjust the type, crystallinity and textural properties of the zeolites. The synthesised materials exhibited specific surface areas of 12.7–22.5 m2 g−1 and cation exchange capacities ranging from 1.57 to 2.54 meq g−1. FTIR analysis confirmed the formation of zeolitic phases, whereas microstructural characterisation revealed a progressive topotactic transformation from cubic LTA to NaP crystalline aggregates. These findings demonstrate the potential of this approach to produce functional zeolites and promote circular economy practices by co-recycling industrial waste through industrial symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid42053608,
year = {2026},
author = {Çağatay, NS and Dageri, A and Saruhan, I and Tuncer, C and Guz, N},
title = {Diversity and Composition of the Microbiome Associated with Adult of the Green Shield Bug Palomena prasina (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae).},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00248-026-02779-2},
pmid = {42053608},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {Project number: 116O328//Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştırma Kurumu/ ; },
abstract = {Hazelnut is a major export commodity for Türkiye, the world’s leading producer, yet pest pressure in hazelnut orchards has caused substantial quantitative and qualitative yield losses in recent years. Among emerging pests, the green shield bug (GSB) Palomena prasina (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) has become a key threat due to direct feeding on developing fruits. Despite its increasing economic relevance, the microbial community associated with P. prasina remains poorly characterized. Here, we present the first comprehensive analysis of the bacterial community associated with P. prasina using 16 S rRNA gene metabarcoding combined with prevalence screening and phylogenetic analyses. A total of 36 bacterial taxa were detected across sampled populations, with Pantoea and Sodalis identified as the dominant genera. Bacterial diversity did not differ significantly between sexes or among geographic locations, indicating a relatively stable microbial community. Prevalence analyses revealed that Pantoea spp. were present in all examined individuals, whereas Sodalis spp. showed variable infection frequencies among populations. Phylogenetic reconstruction indicated contrasting evolutionary patterns between these dominant taxa, with Pantoea lineages displaying a polyphyletic structure suggestive of repeated environmental acquisition, while Sodalis sequences formed a more cohesive, host-associated lineage consistent with a facultative symbiotic lifestyle. Overall, these findings improve our understanding of stink bug-microbe associations and provide an ecological framework for future studies exploring symbiont-based pest management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42287489,
year = {2026},
author = {da Silveira Bastos, IMA and Cardoso, MS and Laux, M and Ribeiro, RR and García, GJY and Bahia, PA and de Sousa, PMV and Alves, BGT and de Rezende, DHC and Rosado, AS and Bezerra, JDP and Landell, MF and Melo, VMM and Tavares, TCL and Góes-Neto, A},
title = {Worldwide diversity and ecology of mangrove fungi: a systematic review of ITS metabarcoding studies and a quantitative, integrative analysis of raw sequence data.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {42287489},
issn = {1573-0972},
mesh = {*Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; *DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic ; *Biodiversity ; *Wetlands ; *Mycobiome ; Basidiomycota/genetics/classification ; Geologic Sediments/microbiology ; *Rhizophoraceae/microbiology ; Ecosystem ; Ascomycota/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {Fungi are integral components of the mangrove microbiome, playing critical roles in decomposition, nutrient cycling, and symbiosis. Our study synthesizes the findings from a global systematic review of fungal ITS metabarcoding studies conducted in mangrove ecosystems. This review consolidates data from 23 original research articles (1,154 samples) and provides a comprehensive overview of the diversity, community structure, and ecological functions of fungi in these critical coastal habitats. The analyses revealed a consistent core fungal mycobiome in mangroves worldwide. This community is dominated by Ascomycota, with Basidiomycota as the second most abundant phylum. A consistent set of ten highly abundant genera underpins this core community, and fungal diversity and composition are strongly influenced by the specific substrate. Non-rhizospheric sediment harbors the highest diversity, while live plant organs host a more specialized and less diverse community, slightly dominated by potential plant pathogens. Rhizospheric sediment supports a unique assemblage rich in wood-decomposing fungi. The primary ecological role of fungi in mangroves is decomposition, which is essential for breaking down lignocellulosic litter, cycling nutrients, and storing carbon in sediments. A surprisingly high relative abundance of fungi classified as plant pathogens was identified on mangrove plant tissues, suggesting an underappreciated role of fungal diseases in these ecosystems. Metabarcoding provides a far broader view of fungal diversity than traditional collection and culturing methods. It has uncovered a vast number of uncultured taxa and has been particularly effective in revealing the significant, and likely underestimated, presence of macrofungi in mangrove soils. Our study also highlights that current short-read metabarcoding can severely underestimate certain fungal groups, particularly the endomycorrhizal Glomeromycota, due to technical limitations. Altogether, our synthesis provides a global baseline against which future mangrove mycobiome studies can be benchmarked.},
}

*Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
*DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic
*Biodiversity
*Wetlands
*Mycobiome
Basidiomycota/genetics/classification
Geologic Sediments/microbiology
*Rhizophoraceae/microbiology
Ecosystem
Ascomycota/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Phylogeny

@article {pmid42287895,
year = {2026},
author = {Yao, Z and Lin, G and Liu, Y and Zhang, J},
title = {Mechanisms for the phytohormone-elevated performance of a continuous-flow baffled cyanobacterial photo-bioreactor for antibiotic removal and lipid production.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {303},
number = {},
pages = {126283},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.126283},
pmid = {42287895},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {A mixture of Synechococcus sp., Chroococcus sp., and Synechocystis sp. was immobilized in indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)-supplemented calcium alginate beads and then placed into a four-compartment baffled photo-bioreactor. A 30-day continuous-flow treatment of secondary effluent wastewater using this system achieved removal rates of 74.08-85.12% for COD, 87.52-96.89% for TN, 95.36-99.26% for TP, 84.02-88.36% for cefalexin, 67.15-75.57% for erythromycin, 91.17-96.05% for oxytetracycline, and 74.76-78.87% for norfloxacin. Chroococcus sp. contributed the most to pollutant removal, with its abundance negatively correlated with the concentrations of all pollutants. Bacterial colonization within cyanobacterial beads, upregulated genes involved in signal transduction, quorum sensing, and biofilm formation, as well as correlations between cyanobacteria and seven bacterial genera (Acidovorax, Chitinophaga, Massilia, Algoriphagus, Chryseobacterium, Comamonas, and Candidatus) together confirmed the formation of a cyanobacteria-bacteria consortium. Efficient pollutant removal was attributed to the high cyanobacterial biomass stimulated by IAA and the activation of genes related to stress response, the TCA cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, and pollutant metabolism in bead microorganisms. Reduced abundances of antibiotic resistance genes in the effluent may result from activated mismatch repair pathway and suppressed horizontal gene transfer. Antibiotics, the symbiotic bacterium Azospirillum, and IAA jointly stimulated cyanobacterial growth and lipid accumulation, contributing to a high cyanobacterial lipid productivity of 47.59-51.82 mg/(L·d), mainly through the upregulation of genes involved in the Calvin cycle, pentose phosphate pathway, and fatty acid biosynthesis. Overall, this study provides a sustainable strategy integrating pollutant removal, resistance control, and resource recovery.},
}

@article {pmid42289283,
year = {2026},
author = {Noda, M and Ito, M and Miyata, K and Suzaki, T},
title = {Nonnodulating Fagales retain the functional NODULE INCEPTION gene.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71337},
pmid = {42289283},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {JPMJAN23D2//Japan Science and Technology Agency/ ; JPMJSP2124//Japan Science and Technology Agency/ ; JP23K27188//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; JP25H01345//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; JP26K02024//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; },
abstract = {NODULE INCEPTION orthologs are present in nonnodulating species in Fagales.},
}

@article {pmid42289648,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, C and Ding, Z and Guo, Y and Ma, X and Li, J and Guo, L},
title = {Sex-specific adaptive strategies and rhizosphere microbiome responses to drought stress in Bouteloua dactyloides.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-05275-2},
pmid = {42289648},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {LJKMZ20221053//Foundation of Liaoning Province Education Administration/ ; X2021012//Shenyang Agricultural University/ ; },
abstract = {Drought is becoming more frequent and severe under global climate change. Bouteloua dactyloides (Nutt.) (hereafter, B. dactyloides) is a dioecious, drought-tolerant warm-season turfgrass, but whether males and females use different adaptive strategies under drought remains unclear. We conducted a pot experiment to compare male and female plants under well-watered (90% field capacity) and drought-stressed (30% field capacity) conditions. We hypothesized that male and female B. dactyloides plants would exhibit sex-specific adaptive strategies in physiological traits and rhizosphere microbial communities under drought stress. Drought increased malondialdehyde and proline contents and enhanced superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase activities in both sexes, while peroxidase activity decreased. Under well-watered conditions, females had a higher drought resistance index than males, whereas no significant sex difference was detected under drought. Sex-specific responses were still evident; females showed a higher root-shoot ratio, whereas males exhibited increased catalase (CAT) activity. Drought and plant sex also jointly altered rhizosphere microbial communities. Drought increased fungal alpha diversity only in males, whose rhizospheres were enriched in Basidiomycota and Glomeromycota. Drought suppressed bacterial aerobic metabolism and sulfur respiration functions, as well as saprotrophic and pathogenic fungi in both sexes. Notably, male rhizospheres were significantly enriched in symbiotic fungi, particularly arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Overall, female B. dactyloides mainly enhances drought adaptation through morphological plasticity, whereas males rely more on a microbiome-mediated strategy centered on AMF recruitment. These findings reveal sex-specific physiological and rhizosphere microbiome adaptation pathways and underscore the role of the microbiome in drought response, providing a basis for cultivar selection in arid-region turf management.},
}

@article {pmid42289812,
year = {2026},
author = {Pellegrinetti, TA and Santos, AA and Molligan, J and Pérez-López, E},
title = {Can the leafhopper microbiome unlock new strategies for its control?.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toag166},
pmid = {42289812},
issn = {1938-291X},
abstract = {Leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) are significant agricultural pests worldwide, causing direct feeding injury and transmitting plant pathogens. Conventional management still relies heavily on insecticides, but resistance development, non-target effects, and environmental concerns increasingly limit their effectiveness. Recent progress in leveraging insect microbiomes for sustainable pest control, mostly in well-studied groups such as mosquitoes, whiteflies, and aphids, suggests that symbiotic manipulation could offer new tools. Whether such strategies can be developed for leafhoppers remains an open question, given how little is currently known about their microbial partnerships. Here, we synthesize current knowledge of leafhopper-associated microbial communities and evaluate approaches that could complement existing integrated pest management programs. We discuss approaches ranging from the characterization and isolation of symbionts to biotechnology strategies. We present a case study examining microbiome dynamics in the corn leafhopper (Dalbulus maidis) as a conceptual demonstration of how microbiome data can generate testable management hypotheses. We highlight both the opportunities and challenges associated with manipulating microbial partners, including ecological predictability, host specificity, and evolutionary feedback. Framing leafhoppers as holobionts, our review outlines a roadmap for translating microbiome research into compatible control technologies for agricultural systems.},
}

@article {pmid42290043,
year = {2026},
author = {Mullally, ME and Bond, LJ and Palepu, RR and Young, JS and Frei, DR},
title = {Evaluation of novel materials for front-of-neck access simulations.},
journal = {Anaesthesia and intensive care},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {310057X261443357},
doi = {10.1177/0310057X261443357},
pmid = {42290043},
issn = {0310-057X},
abstract = {Neck rescue encompasses a variety of techniques and terms used to describe direct access to the trachea to allow delivery of oxygen into the airway, typically in the context of a 'can't intubate, can't oxygenate' (CICO) scenario. Anaesthetists rely on CICO simulation exercises to obtain competency in neck rescue using commercially available plastic airway models. Recently, innovations in three-dimensional (3D)-printed airway models and 'symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast' (SCOBY) skins have been trialled for CICO training. We undertook a study to compare the fidelity of a 3D-printed airway model and SCOBY skin model with a commercially available plastic and foam model (Crico-Trainer 'Frova', VBM-Medizintechnik GmbH, Sulz am Neckar, Germany) trialled by 27 volunteer anaesthesia specialists and trainees. Study participants performed neck rescue on all model variants and provided structured feedback. The 3D-printed model with SCOBY skin was found to have the highest fidelity for neck rescue training and was the model preferred by most participants. Model fidelity, environmental impact, and ethical considerations were rated as important or very important by participants. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings in other hospital settings.},
}

@article {pmid42290978,
year = {2026},
author = {Jin, Z and Zhang, Y and Zhong, Z and Shen, Z and Huang, L and Hu, H and Chen, X and Liu, W and Li, L and Gao, C},
title = {Dynamic feedback BacGuard anchors microbial metabolism to host symbiosis in real-time ulcerative colitis therapy.},
journal = {Bioactive materials},
volume = {65},
number = {},
pages = {365-379},
pmid = {42290978},
issn = {2452-199X},
abstract = {The escalating global burden of ulcerative colitis (UC) underscores the limitations of conventional anti-inflammatory therapies. Although multi-omics insights have propelled gut microbiota modulation to the forefront of therapeutic innovation, current strategies relying on probiotics or fecal transplants remain constrained by empirical designs due to the lack of spatiotemporal precision and real-time monitoring of microbial metabolic vitality in situ. In this study, BacGuard, a metabolically orthogonal microgel platform, was developed to unify the probiotic surveillance and guided dynamic dose regulation with spatially targeted microbiota-associated metabolic modulation. Our core design featured a β-xylosidase-activated chemiluminescent probe (XOS-CL) that was conjugated with xylooligosaccharide-based hyperbranched polymers (HBXOK) and orally delivered via microgels. Thereby, this system enabled real-time monitoring of probiotic abundance and metabolic activity in the colon through enzyme-responsive signaling, while simultaneously promoting short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production via redirected bacterial metabolic flux. This dual-action system created a self-reinforcing therapeutic loop and optically quantifying the microbial activity in a dynamic manner. By resolving the causal disconnects between enzymatic activity, microbiota proliferation, and host interactions, the BacGuard bridged the diagnostic metrics to functional therapeutic outcomes. Anchoring both sensing and treatment to microbial metabolic flux, our platform reimagined the precision gut ecosystem engineering, establishing an image-guided dynamic dose regulation framework that actively preserved the microbiota-host symbiosis through in-time and function-adaptive modulation.},
}

@article {pmid42291240,
year = {2026},
author = {Montalbetti, E and Aramini, T and Bonanomi, M and Louis, YD and Brivio, E and Zhang, L and Perez, PG and Porro, D and Lucini, L and Lavorano, S and Seveso, D and Galli, P and Gaglio, D},
title = {Thermal stress-induced metabolic reprogramming in two hard coral species.},
journal = {iScience},
volume = {29},
number = {6},
pages = {116207},
pmid = {42291240},
issn = {2589-0042},
abstract = {Coral reefs are increasingly impacted by marine heatwaves that disrupt the symbiosis between corals and their symbiotic dinoflagellates. Using untargeted LC-MS metabolomics, we investigated heat-stress responses at the coral holobiont level in Stylophora pistillata (S. pistillata) and Pocillopora damicornis (P. damicornis) from the northern Red Sea. Under control conditions (25°C), the two species exhibited distinct baseline metabolic profiles, indicating different energy-metabolism strategies. After 10 days at 31°C, both the corals showed pronounced metabolic reprogramming but with contrasting responses, P. damicornis increased amino acid metabolism, redox buffering, and ammonia recycling, consistent with enhanced cellular defense. In contrast, S. pistillata reduced central carbon metabolism and shifted toward alternative energy pathways and lipid remodeling. These findings show that closely related corals can adopt divergent holobiont-level metabolic strategies under thermal stress, highlighting metabolic plasticity as an important component of coral responses to ocean warming.},
}

@article {pmid42291262,
year = {2026},
author = {Reddy, SS and Miao, S and Khan, MS and Hansen, AK},
title = {Host plant quality reshapes symbiotic organ architecture without altering symbiont density.},
journal = {iScience},
volume = {29},
number = {6},
pages = {115932},
pmid = {42291262},
issn = {2589-0042},
abstract = {Obligate nutritional symbioses enable sap-feeding insects to overcome essential amino acid limitations, yet the extent to which these associations exhibit plasticity across host plants remains unclear. We tested whether host plant quality alters the Bactericera cockerelli-Carsonella symbiosis by comparing psyllids developing on tomato and pepper. Tomato sap contained significantly higher essential amino acid concentrations than pepper. Despite these nutritional differences, only 42 genes were differentially expressed in the bacteriome, a symbiotic organ composed of insect cells (bacteriocytes) that house Carsonella. Tomato-fed psyllids upregulated genes associated with cell communication and structural organization, whereas pepper-fed psyllids upregulated metabolic and translational pathways. We also observed that bacteriocyte number was higher on tomato and in females, while bacteriocyte symbiont density remained unchanged. Psyllid fitness was also higher on tomato. These findings support a condition-dependent model in which plant nutrition shapes bacteriome structural and transcriptional investment in symbiosis without altering symbiont density per bacteriocyte.},
}

@article {pmid42293523,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, H and Zhao, Q and Luo, B and Zhang, X and Huang, J and Lu, Y and Tian, F and Sun, H and Ni, Y},
title = {Significant strain microdiversity in mother-infant dyad cohorts across ethnic groups reveals population specificity of bifidobacteria microbiota transmission.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1814222},
pmid = {42293523},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The gut microbiota of human populations shares a core of symbiotic microbial species, some of which codiversify with hosts, and are considered a complex mixture of closely related strains. However, little is known about population-wide diversity for strain-level symbiont community in the human gut so far. Here, we focused on Bifidobacterium, a key microbial group in the early-life gut microbiota. By analyzing metataxonomic datasets of the full-length 16S rRNA gene and the Bifidobacterium-specific groEL and tuf genes from 54 mother-infant dyads across three ethnic groups spanning large geographic distances in China, we determined that 16S rRNA gene primer sequencing causes significant deviations in species and strain diversity of the Bifidobacteria community. In the single-copy groEL nd tuf gene dataset, a core group comprising at least 10 bifidobacterial (sub)species was consistently identified across multiple cohorts. ASVs within the same species represent significant microdiversity, showing distinct distribution patterns across cohorts. Notably, strain similarity within a cohort was significantly higher than that across cohorts, supporting the hypothesis of population specificity in intergenerational inheritance of gut symbiotic consortia within sympatric populations.},
}

@article {pmid42293537,
year = {2026},
author = {Retzinger, AC},
title = {The Acari Hypothesis, VIII: the human apocrine-mammary-microbiota axis and Staphylococcus epidermidis mutualism.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1714798},
pmid = {42293537},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Human integument is unusual among primates for its expanded eccrine network, glandular specialization, acidic surface pH, and enrichment of staphylococcal taxa. Framed within the Acari Hypothesis, this manuscript proposes a unifying apocrine-mammary-microbiota axis in which human integumentary glands cultivate protective symbionts, with Staphylococcus epidermidis as a keystone. Reviewed evidence encompasses acid mantle biochemistry and glandular antimicrobials that favor acid- and lipid-tolerant staphylococci while restricting pathogens and possibly ectoparasites. Mammalian apocrine secretions rely on microbial metabolism to convert precursor molecules into bioactive compounds that mediate species-specific physiological functions. This reliance may be consistent with the enrichment of staphylococci at apocrine-rich sites in humans. Mammary biology indicates vertical transfer of skin- and milk-associated microbes that stabilize epithelial ecosystems across generations. The manuscript develops a mutualist model for S. epidermidis on human epithelia, reconsiders device-associated infections, and surveys staphylococcal dysbiosis across dermatologic conditions. As proposed, human integumentary and mammary glands co-evolved to cultivate and vertically transmit symbiotic staphylococci, whose metabolites and niche competition defend against ectoparasites and pathogens while balancing epithelial and metabolic homeostasis.},
}

@article {pmid42294231,
year = {2026},
author = {Uszko, JM and Abibu, SA and Eichhorn, SJ and Patil, AJ and Hall, SR},
title = {Cellulose Biofilms, New Biotemplates in the Synthesis of Cuprate Superconductors.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {11},
number = {22},
pages = {32391-32399},
pmid = {42294231},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {Bacterial cellulose (BC), obtained from fermented food byproducts (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast, and Nata de Coco), was successfully used as a template for the synthesis of a YBa2Cu3O6+δ (YBCO) superconductor. As previous studies have shown, a dry template is needed to ensure the maximum uptake of the precursor solution. BC used is obtained in a wet state; it must be dried before use as a template. A variety of template drying techniques were investigated to assess the efficacy. This included air, oven, freeze, and solvent exchange drying. Among these, freeze-drying proved to be the most effective method as it best preserved the porous internal structure of the template. The addition of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), a polychelating acid, also had a beneficial effect on the synthesis, improving both phase purity and the contribution of the superconducting phase. Waste-derived BC was shown to be a suitable substrate for the sol-gel synthesis of cuprate superconductors, providing an alternative to the ionic-liquid/nanocellulose-based approach used previously.},
}

@article {pmid42294715,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, H and Niu, X and Lei, L and Zhou, T and Zhang, G and Xu, B},
title = {The symbiotic bacteria Frischella perrara in honey bees mitigate varroa mite infection.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0096026},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.00960-26},
pmid = {42294715},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Honey bees are vulnerable to various pathogens and pests, and ectoparasitic Varroa destructor has become the main cause of population decline of western honey bees (Apis mellifera) worldwide. Currently, chemical acaricides are the primary methods for controlling Varroa mites (V. destructor), and developing non-chemical control technique is urgently needed for beekeeping industry. We aimed to evaluate if the symbiont gut bacteria from bee colonies were attributed to Varroa tolerance and could be developed as a control agent. We sequenced 16S rDNA of gut microbiota between surviving colonies at a non-acaricide treated apiary (i.e., anti-mite colonies, AMCs) and conventional mite-susceptibility colonies (CMSCs) at an apiary with routine acaricide treatment. We found that AMCs harbor higher abundance of Frischella. By supplementing CMSCs with F. perrara in the field, we found decreased Varroa infestation intensity with more fallen phoretic Varroa and more injured pupae to be removed (an indicator of hygienic behavior). By supplementing honey bees with F. perrara in laboratory, we found increased proboscis extension reflex frequency and expression of odor-binding proteins in their antennae (OBP 11, 12, 16, and 21), indicating a potential molecular mechanism of enhanced hygienic behavior. This study suggests a novel function of the gut symbiont F. perrara in mitigating Varroa parasitism, implying its potential to serve as a new method to control Varroa mites through enhancing bees' olfactory sensitivity.

IMPORTANCE: The parasitic mite of honey bees, Varroa destructor, is the major challenge of beekeeping industry across the world. We propose a practical control method, applying a gut symbiont bacterium (F. perrara) to bee colonies to address this global challenge without the side effects of using chemical treatment methods. We found F. perrara treatment can lead to a higher number of fallen mites from adult bees' body. The potential mechanism is to improve honey bees' hygienic behavior to clean mites through promoting their olfactory sensitivity, increasing the chances to detect mites. Varroa control by administrating F. perrara does not harm honey bee health and avoid product contamination and pesticide resistance to mites. This method may provide a sustainable Varroa control tool in realistic beekeeping industry.},
}

@article {pmid42294875,
year = {2026},
author = {Cai, W and Moriyama, M and Nishide, Y and Koga, R and Fukatsu, T},
title = {Symbiotic Escherichia coli strains can better colonize host stinkbugs and outcompete natural symbiotic bacteria, but confer less fitness benefit.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0095126},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.00951-26},
pmid = {42294875},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {The stinkbug Plautia stali harbors essential gut symbiotic bacteria of the genus Pantoea, whose natural strains differ in cultivability and host benefits. Using this system, we evaluated how laboratory-evolved and genetically engineered symbiotic Escherichia coli strains compete against native Pantoea symbionts and how they influence host fitness. In single infection assays, the native uncultivable symbiont Sym A conferred the highest host performance, whereas the evolved (CmL05G13) and artificial (ΔcyaA) symbiotic E. coli strains supported host survival at levels comparable to cultivable Pantoea symbionts (Sym C-F). In competitive co-infection assays, the symbiotic E. coli strains generally showed unexpectedly strong colonization ability. CmL05G13 outcompeted all the cultivable symbionts Sym C-F and even displaced the native uncultivable symbiont Sym A, whereas ΔcyaA and the nonsymbiotic control E. coli ΔintS were dominated by Sym A at the adult stage. Despite their superior infection competitiveness, the symbiotic E. coli strains provided limited reproductive benefits, behaving as "cheater-like" associates. They were able to invade and dominate the symbiotic organ but failed to match the fitness contributions of native symbionts. These results demonstrate that the experimentally evolved E. coli can rapidly acquire strong colonization ability, surpassing that of the natural symbionts that have coevolved with P. stali in nature. At the same time, the mismatch between infection success and host fitness benefits highlights potential evolutionary conflicts and provides an experimental model for studying the dynamics of cheating, mutualism, and symbiont replacement in vertically transmitted symbioses.IMPORTANCEUnderstanding how novel symbionts invade and displace long-term mutualists is central to the evolution of symbiosis. This study demonstrates that Escherichia coli, originally a nonsymbiotic bacterium, can rapidly evolve potent colonization ability and even outcompete native Pantoea symbionts of the stinkbug Plautia stali. Meanwhile, these competitive E. coli strains confer markedly lower reproductive benefits compared with the native symbionts that have developed an intimate mutualistic association with the host P. stali over evolutionary time, revealing a striking decoupling between infection success and host fitness. This finding highlights the potential for cheater-like microbes to invade vertically transmitted symbioses and destabilize coevolved partnerships. By combining experimental evolution, controlled co-infections, and quantitative analyses, the P. stali-E. coli experimental symbiotic system provides a powerful model for studying the mechanisms and evolutionary dynamics of mutualism, cheating, and symbiont replacement.},
}

@article {pmid42295492,
year = {2026},
author = {Zeng, D and Wang, L and Gong, Y and Zhou, W and Wang, W and Wang, S and Xu, G and Chen, A},
title = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis suppresses tomato bacterial wilt by coordinating plant systemic resistance with microbiome antagonism.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {36},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {42295492},
issn = {1432-1890},
support = {32472831//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32472831//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32472831//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32472831//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32472831//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32472831//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32472831//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32472831//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Solanum lycopersicum/microbiology ; *Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control ; *Ralstonia solanacearum/physiology ; *Symbiosis ; *Microbiota ; Rhizosphere ; Plant Systemic Acquired Resistance ; Soil Microbiology ; Disease Resistance ; },
abstract = {Tomato bacterial wilt, caused by Ralstonia solanacearum, is a globally devastating soil-borne disease that poses a serious threat to the sustainable development of tomato production. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are well-recognized beneficial soil microorganisms that significantly promote plant growth, enhance nutrient uptake, and improve resistance to various biotic and abiotic stresses. However, a comprehensive understanding of the potential of AMF to suppress tomato bacterial wilt is still lacking. In this study, we demonstrate that AMF inoculation remarkably reduces the disease index of bacterial wilt in tomato plants, upregulates the expression of pathogenesis-related (PR) genes, and enhances antioxidant enzyme activities, collectively strengthening systemic disease resistance. High-throughput 16 S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that AMF colonization drives substantial reassembly of the rhizosphere microbiome. Notably, AMF colonization promoted the recruitment of beneficial bacterial genera, including Bacillus and Brevibacillus, while significantly suppressing the abundance of Ralstonia. Furthermore, we isolated two Brevibacillus strains, designated AQC211 and AQC296, from the mycorrhizosphere of healthy tomato plants, both exhibited antagonistic activity against R. solanacearum in vitro. Pot experiments confirmed that inoculation with the AQC211 strain significantly reduced the incidence and severity of bacterial wilt. These findings indicate that AMF can not only directly prime plant systemic resistance but also indirectly enhance protection against bacterial wilt by shaping a disease-suppressive rhizosphere microbiome.},
}

*Solanum lycopersicum/microbiology
*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control
*Ralstonia solanacearum/physiology
*Symbiosis
*Microbiota
Rhizosphere
Plant Systemic Acquired Resistance
Soil Microbiology
Disease Resistance

@article {pmid42296348,
year = {2026},
author = {Catacora-Grundy, A and Juery, C and Chevalier, F and Yee, DP and Pavie, M and LeKieffre, C and Schieber, NL and Schwab, Y and Gallet, B and Jouneau, PH and Curien, G and Decelle, J},
title = {Sweet and fatty symbionts: Photosynthetic productivity and carbon storage boosted in microalgae within a host.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {123},
number = {25},
pages = {e2513679123},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2513679123},
pmid = {42296348},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {GBMF11532//Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation (GBMF)/ ; 101088661)//EC | Horizon Europe | Excellent Science | HORIZON EUROPE European Research Council (ERC)/ ; NR-22-PEEL-0014//Agence Nationale de la Recherche (ANR)/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis/physiology ; *Photosynthesis/physiology ; *Microalgae/metabolism/physiology ; *Carbon/metabolism ; Chloroplasts/metabolism ; *Paramecium/metabolism/physiology ; Carbon Cycle ; Starch/metabolism ; Carbon Dioxide/metabolism ; Ribulose-Bisphosphate Carboxylase/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Symbiosis between a host and intracellular eukaryotic microalgae is a widespread life strategy in aquatic ecosystems. This partnership is considered to be mainly energized by the supply of photosynthetically derived carbon energy from microalgal symbionts. A major question is whether microalgae increase their photosynthetic production and decrease carbon storage in order to maximize carbon translocation to their host. By combining three-dimensional subcellular imaging and physiological analyses, we show that the chloroplast and CO2-fixing pyrenoid of the microalga Micractinium conductrix significantly expands during symbiosis within their host (the ciliate Paramecium bursaria) compared to the free-living stage. This is accompanied by a threefold higher quantity of Rubisco enzymes, 16-fold higher carbon fixation rate per algal cell and upregulation of several Carbon Concentrating Mechanism-related genes. Time-resolved subcellular quantitative imaging revealed that photosynthetically fixed carbon is first allocated to starch during the day, with five times higher production in symbiosis. Nearly half of the carbon stored in starch is consumed overnight while some is converted into lipid droplets, which are 20-fold more voluminous in symbiotic microalgae. We also show that carbon is transferred to the host and potentially respired by the high density of surrounding host mitochondria. Yet, high starch and lipid content in symbiotic microalgae suggest a moderate carbon export to the host relative to the high primary productivity. Overall, this study provides an original view of the subcellular remodeling and dynamics of carbon metabolism of microalgae inside a host, and opens new questions on the mechanisms of the source-sink relationship in aquatic photosymbiosis.},
}

*Symbiosis/physiology
*Photosynthesis/physiology
*Microalgae/metabolism/physiology
*Carbon/metabolism
Chloroplasts/metabolism
*Paramecium/metabolism/physiology
Carbon Cycle
Starch/metabolism
Carbon Dioxide/metabolism
Ribulose-Bisphosphate Carboxylase/metabolism

@article {pmid42296622,
year = {2026},
author = {Pravara, R and Praveen, R and Seema, B},
title = {Microbial allies in a cotton pest: A descriptive account of associated microbiota dynamics in Dysdercus cingulatus across development.},
journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part D, Genomics & proteomics},
volume = {60},
number = {},
pages = {101902},
doi = {10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101902},
pmid = {42296622},
issn = {1878-0407},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hemipteran insects harbour several symbiotic partners, mainly bacteria, which play pivotal roles for hosts like dietary provision, support overall physiology, xenobiotic degradation and manipulate/regulate behaviour. Most of these symbionts usually reside and operate from the digestive tracts of the animals. Cotton is one of the major cash crops in India and Dysdercus cingulatus (D. cingulatus) though a secondary pest, is causing significant destruction of cotton bolls, poor lint quality and reduce oil content of seeds. Premature opening of cotton bolls often leads to bacterial and fungal infections, thus resulting in extensive economic loss worldwide. D. cingulatus is a hemimetabolous insect that comprises of developmental stages like egg, nymph (5 instar stages), and adult. The present work explored the ontogeny specific diversity in the associated microbiota and predicted their probable functional inputs in D. cingulatus.

RESULTS: The data obtained using 16S rRNA gene sequencing (NovaSeq 6000) revealed presence of members of Proteobacteria (65.83%), Firmicutes (24%), Actinobacteria (10%) phyla throughout the ontogeny of D. cingulatus. Highest alpha diversity of these symbiotic bacteria was recorded in the third instar nymphs in contrast to rest of the developmental stages. Among all the observed genera, Stenotrophomonas, Hungatella and Glutamicibacter were predominant from egg to adult stages. MicFunPred, a tool used for predicting the probable functional inputs of these symbionts, hinted at their probable stage specific contribution in crucial biochemical pathways such as polyketide biosynthesis, ascorbate/aldarate metabolism, pentose phosphate and glyoxylate cycles, steroid hormone and peptidoglycan biosynthesis, and glycolysis/pyruvate metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS: The primary investigations on the ontogenetic composition and diversity of associated microbiota, suggest dynamic shifts in D. cingulatus, concurrent with their probable functions/roles in the host development and metabolism. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on symbiotic microbiota variation across the developmental stages of D. cingulatus that provides preliminary descriptive observations that may guide future functional and experimental investigations into microbiota-based pest management.},
}

@article {pmid42298073,
year = {2026},
author = {Qin, F and Li, L and Chen, H and Yang, L},
title = {Whole-genome sequencing and analysis of the endophytic fungus Alternaria alternata Y-2 from Leymus chinensis.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-58118-5},
pmid = {42298073},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {2021BS03029//The Natural Science Foundation of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region/ ; 2024XJCG31//The university-level research project of Hulunbuir University/ ; 2024XJCG28//The university-level research project of Hulunbuir University/ ; },
abstract = {To explore the genetic basis and functional potential of beneficial symbiosis between the endophytic fungus Alternaria alternata Y-2 and its host Leymus chinensis, we performed Illumina-based draft whole-genome sequencing and systematic bioinformatic analysis. Although this assembly does not reach telomere-to-telomere completeness, it provides high-quality gene-level information for gene prediction, functional annotation, carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme) identification, and secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene cluster analysis. The final genome size of A. alternata Y-2 was 34,383,676 bp with a GC content of 51.0%, containing 12,724 predicted protein-coding genes, 90 tRNAs, and 12 rRNAs. BUSCO assessment showed 98.9% completeness, supporting the high quality of this draft genome. A total of 12,627 genes were successfully annotated in the NCBI NR database, and 17,183 genes were functionally categorized using GO terms. In total, 448 CAZyme genes and 21 secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters were identified, which are potentially involved in lignocellulose degradation, cellular redox homeostasis and biosynthesis of bioactive metabolites. Based on ITS sequence alignment, NR annotation, and phylogenetic analysis of single-copy orthologous genes, the strain was confidently identified as A. alternata. This study firstly reports the draft genome of an endophytic A. alternata strain derived from L. chinensis and provides valuable genetic resources for exploring the endophytic lifestyle, stress tolerance, and bioactive metabolite potential of this fungus.},
}

@article {pmid42286499,
year = {2026},
author = {Musa, M and Khan, R and Ullah, I and Ali, N and Khan, MF and Riaz, MB},
title = {Phytohormones producing endophytic fungi Paecilomyceslilacinus modulated metabolic, enzymatic, and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems of Zea mays L. under heavy metal stress.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12870-026-08812-3},
pmid = {42286499},
issn = {1471-2229},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The continuous growth of the global population is intensifying the challenge of sustaining future food production. Among the major constraints to agricultural productivity, heavy metal (HM) contamination of soils has emerged as a serious environmental problem that adversely affects crop growth and yield. Environmentally friendly strategies are therefore needed to mitigate HM stress in plants. Endophytic fungi have gained attention for their potential to enhance plant tolerance to abiotic stresses. In this study, the endophytic fungus Paecilomyces lilacinus was evaluated for its ability to produce phytohormones and alleviate lead (Pb) and cobalt (Co) stress in maize (Zea mays L.).

RESULTS: Firstly, culture filtrate of P. lilacinus was analyzed for phytohormone production under Pb and Co stress conditions. The fungus produced significant amounts of gibberellic acid (43.01 µg mL⁻¹), salicylic acid (2192.1 µg mL⁻¹), and abscisic acid (35.4 µg mL⁻¹), along with measurable protein content (170.06 µg mL⁻¹) in cobalt contaminated filtrate. Secondly, pot experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of P. lilacinus inoculation on maize plants grown under different concentrations of Pb and Co. Inoculated plants showed increased endogenous levels of GA₃, SA, and ABA, along with significantly higher chlorophyll content compared to non-inoculated controls. The fungal association also enhanced antioxidant capacity, as indicated by increased 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) inhibition activity, which reached 90.9% under Pb (90 mg) and 89.1% under Co (90 mg). Similarly, the highest ABTS inhibition activity (96%) was recorded under Pb (90 mg). Moreover, P. lilacinus inoculation significantly increased the activities of different antioxidant enzymes, including catalase, ascorbate acid oxidase, and peroxidase. Enhanced uptake of Pb and Co from the soil was also observed in inoculated maize plants compared with control plants.

CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate that Paecilomyces lilacinus mitigates heavy metal toxicity in maize by enhancing phytohormone production and strengthening antioxidant defense mechanisms in a symbiotic association with the host plant. This endophytic interaction improves plant tolerance to Pb and Co stress and promotes metal uptake, highlighting the potential of P. lilacinus as a sustainable biological approach for reducing heavy metal toxicity and improving crop productivity in contaminated soils.},
}

@article {pmid42279331,
year = {2026},
author = {Thangaretnam, K and Islam, MO and Lv, J and Chen, L and Ballout, F and Zhu, S and Lu, H and Peng, D and El-Rifai, W and Chen, Z},
title = {Architectural Refuges: Mapping Spatial Heterogeneity and Niche-Mediated Drug Resistance in Gastric and Esophageal Adenocarcinomas.},
journal = {Cancers},
volume = {18},
number = {11},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cancers18111748},
pmid = {42279331},
issn = {2072-6694},
support = {24K05//Florida Department of Health/ ; Zheng_2025//Gastric Cancer Foundation/ ; ASP24-0000000013//The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research/ ; Zheng_Chen_2025//DeGregorio Family Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Resistance to systemic therapy remains the defining challenge in the management of gastric cancer (GC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). While genomic drivers of resistance are well characterized, traditional bulk profiling has failed to capture the physical rules governing tumor survival within the complex tissue ecosystem. Emerging data from 2024-2025, leveraging high-resolution spatial transcriptomics and multi-omics, have recontextualized resistance as a phenomenon of "spatial privilege" rather than solely an intrinsic cellular fate. This review summarizes recent evidence to define "architectural refuges": distinct spatial niches that physically shield malignant clones from cytotoxic and targeted agents. We delineate three critical resistance domains common to upper gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas: (1) The "Excluded" Niche, where specific cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) subpopulations (iCAFs vs. myCAFs) and stiffened extracellular matrix create hypovascular zones that limit drug delivery; (2) the "Immune-Tolerant" Niche, characterized by the spatial exclusion of CD8+ T cells and the recruitment of suppressive myeloid populations via the MIF/CD74 and USP14 axes; and (3) the "Metabolic" Niche, where mitochondrial heterogeneity and lipid metabolic symbiosis establish nutrient-deprived niches that select for stem-like, dormant states. By mapping these conserved spatial determinants from primary GEJ tumors to peritoneal and distant metastases, we argue that overcoming resistance requires an advancement: moving beyond targeting individual mutations to dismantling the multicellular architecture that sustains malignancy.},
}

@article {pmid42279368,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Y and Chanda, D and Jeon, SW and Jeon, JH and Kim, MJ},
title = {Mitochondrial Metabolic Reprogramming in Colorectal Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: An Up-to-Date Review.},
journal = {Cancers},
volume = {18},
number = {11},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cancers18111786},
pmid = {42279368},
issn = {2072-6694},
support = {RS-2024-00507256//Korea Health Industry Development Institute/Republic of Korea ; RS-2024-00437643//Korea Health Industry Development Institute/Republic of Korea ; RS-2025-25410994//Korea Health Industry Development Institute/Republic of Korea ; RS-2025-25460277//Korea Health Industry Development Institute/Republic of Korea ; NRF-2021R1A5A2021614//Ministry of Science and ICT/ ; },
abstract = {Colorectal cancer (CRC) progression stems from dynamic metabolic crosstalk between malignant cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Among stromal components, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have emerged as pivotal metabolic drivers rather than mere structural elements. Specifically, evidence indicates that mitochondrial reprogramming in CAFs significantly orchestrates tumor growth, therapeutic resistance, and immune evasion in CRC. This review synthesizes recent insights into how CAF mitochondrial dynamics and metabolic reprogramming dictate CRC biology. We first examine the functional diversity of CAF subpopulations and their distinct mitochondrial requirements. We then contrast mitochondrial dynamics-including fission-fusion balance and mitophagy-between CRC cells and CAFs, highlighting how tumor-derived signals modulate stromal mitochondrial function. We systematically evaluate key regulatory pathways of CAF mitochondrial reprogramming, including TGF-β/HIF-1α, ROS-NF-κB, PI3K-AKT-mTOR, AMPK-PGC-1α, YAP/TAZ mechanotransduction, and mtDNA-mediated cGAS-STING signaling. Furthermore, we discuss how remodeled CAF mitochondria foster metabolic symbiosis via lactate, ketone, and glutamine shuttling; maintain redox homeostasis through the NADPH-glutathione axis and UCP2; and establish immunosuppressive niches via mitochondrial stress signaling. Collectively, these mechanisms drive resistance to chemotherapy, targeted agents, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. By integrating mitochondrial metabolism, stromal signaling, and clinical responses, this review identifies CAF mitochondria as an actionable target within the CRC TME. Targeting these CAF-specific pathways offers a novel strategy to disrupt tumor-stroma metabolic cooperation and overcome treatment resistance in colorectal cancer.},
}

@article {pmid42279684,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, J and Shi, S and Chen, Y and Zhang, S and Ji, C},
title = {Defined Microbial Communities Modulate Polyphenol Transformation and Quality of Kombucha Across Different Tea Substrates.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {11},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods15111897},
pmid = {42279684},
issn = {2304-8158},
support = {2024-MS-172//Liaoning Provincial Natural Science Foundation Program/ ; },
abstract = {Kombucha quality is largely governed by polyphenol transformation during fermentation. However, interaction between substrate composition and microbial communities regulating phenolic transformation and quality formation remains unclear. In this study, six tea substrates (white, green, yellow, black, oolong, and mint tea) were fermented using three defined microbial communities (SMC1-SMC3) and a traditional symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) to evaluate carbon metabolism, phenolic transformation, antioxidant activity, and sensory quality. After 10 d of fermentation, SMC2 and SMC3, containing acetic acid bacteria, showed stronger acidification (pH 2.2-2.5) and lower ethanol (0.34-0.52 mg/mL) than SMC1 (13.09-15.88 mg/mL). Phenolic transformation was substrate-dependent: total phenolics and flavonoids decreased in green tea, both increased in white tea, while flavonoids increased in oolong and black tea. Meanwhile, rutin decreased in white and green tea, whereas gallic acid accumulated in yellow, black, and oolong teas and was positively correlated with antioxidant activity. Sensory evaluation showed SMC3 achieved higher overall acceptability in most substrates, whereas SCOBY performed best in mint tea. These findings indicate substrate-microbiota interactions play a key role in phenolic transformation and quality formation in kombucha. Rational matching of tea substrates with defined microbial communities enables coordinated optimization of antioxidant activity, ethanol control, and sensory quality.},
}

@article {pmid42279698,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, Y and Huang, Y and Ye, L and Yu, J and Huang, Z and Yang, X and Tian, Q and Zhang, B and Liu, Y and Li, X},
title = {Oxford Nanopore Technologies Sequencing and Targeted Amino Acid Metabolomics Reveal Spatially Segregated Microbial Hijacking and Metabolic Collapse During Trichoderma Infection of Golden Ear Mushroom.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {11},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods15111912},
pmid = {42279698},
issn = {2304-8158},
abstract = {This study combines Oxford Nanopore (ONT) third-generation sequencing with targeted amino acid metabolomics to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the structural and metabolic responses of the microbial community in Golden Ear Mushroom (Naematelia sinensis) during Trichoderma infection. By comparing healthy tissue (MOCK), adjacent healthy areas (HAF) and the core lesion area (DiR), the results indicate that pathogen infection significantly reduces bacterial community diversity, with a progressive decline observed across these regions. In the DiR region, the fungal community underwent significant restructuring, with the abundance of the Trichoderma genus (T. lixii and T. afroharzianum) rising to over 45%, whilst that of host symbiotic fungi (Stereum and Tremella) decreased by 50-60%. Metabolomic analysis indicated that levels of various amino acids and antioxidant-related metabolites were significantly reduced in the host tissue of the DiR region, suggesting that amino acid metabolism was inhibited. Concurrently, changes were observed in certain metabolites associated with nitrogen metabolism (e.g., L-glutamine). KEGG analysis further revealed that amino acid biosynthesis and D-amino acid metabolic pathways were inhibited, whilst ABC transporters and arginine/proline metabolic pathways were activated. All metabolic changes originated from the host fungal tissue itself, rather than from commensal microorganisms. In summary, Trichoderma may promote the infection process by disrupting the host microbial community and metabolic networks, providing a theoretical basis for understanding the mechanisms of fungal diseases and their control.},
}

@article {pmid42280738,
year = {2026},
author = {Tian, ZX and Ke, X and Ji, XY and Chen, XY and Zhu, LH},
title = {Ectomycorrhizal Symbiosis as a Bio-Enhancement Strategy for Transplantation of Somatic Embryo-Derived Pinus elliottii.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {11},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15111701},
pmid = {42280738},
issn = {2223-7747},
abstract = {Somatic embryo-derived plantlets of pines often fail to survive acclimatization, which limits commercial micropropagation. Conventional hardening methods do not correct the physiological weaknesses of in vitro plantlets, especially the lack of beneficial microbes. Here we developed a practical protocol for resistant Pinus elliottii. First, we used an optimized maturation protocol (three sequential ABA pre-treatments) and glucose for germination. Substrate screening showed that a peat:vermiculite:perlite mixture (3:1:1) gave the highest survival (98.9%). Then, before transplantation, we introduced a key bio-enhancement step: in vitro inoculation with the ectomycorrhizal fungus Pisolithus orientalis cfcc7668. This treatment achieved a mycorrhization rate of 97.7% and transformed root morphology from thin, sparsely branched roots to a coralloid, dichotomously branched system with a well-developed Hartig net. As a result, mycorrhizal plantlets had 100% transplant survival at 30 days and remained above 94% over 360 days, whereas non-inoculated controls dropped to 95.6% at 30 days and further declined to about 73% after three months. Pre-establishing ectomycorrhizal symbiosis effectively restores a key root function missing in in vitro plantlets. Our integrated procedure provides a practical method for clonal propagation of conifers.},
}

@article {pmid42281119,
year = {2026},
author = {Dudukcu, D and Gorgulu, AB and Karakus, M and Savran Kiziltepe, R and Basbrain, A},
title = {A Comprehensive and Unified Survey on Blockchain-Enabled SDN Cybersecurity: Industry Use Cases, Threat Landscapes, Defense Architectures, and Open Challenges.},
journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {26},
number = {11},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/s26113606},
pmid = {42281119},
issn = {1424-8220},
support = {1470-612-2025//King Abdulaziz University/ ; },
abstract = {The convergence of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Blockchain (BC) creates a symbiotic relationship in which SDN's programmable global visibility complements BC's decentralized, immutable trust model to address critical cybersecurity vulnerabilities and cyber attacks. Addressing the fragmentation in the current literature, this study rigorously investigates BC and SDN (B-SDN) integration with the primary objectives of: (1) differentiating impacts across varied sectors, including the Internet of Things (IoT), Smart Grids, and Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) and more; (2) analyzing critical performance metrics such as energy efficiency and scalability; (3) classifying mitigation, detection, and prevention schemes for specific threats; (4) examining novel Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods; and (5) identifying open challenges and future research directions. Methodologically, this study conducts a survey of state-of-the-art B-SDN studies to investigate six key areas: Industry-specific applications, security mechanisms, defense strategies, defenses against specific attacks, AI integration, and implementation performance. The findings demonstrate that B-SDN integration shows strong potential in simulated and prototype environments to mitigate specific high-impact threats, such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS), Man-in-the-Middle (MiTM), and spoofing, across various domains, including IoT, 5G/6G, VANETS, and Smart Grid. Despite the benefits and advantages promised by B-SDN, several limitations continue to exist, including the latency-security trade-off inherent to consensus protocols and scalability constraints in large-scale deployments. Finally, open research challenges persist in AI-driven automation, particularly in Federated Learning (FL) and in the development of standardized interoperability protocols required to enable the transition from conceptual models to operational systems.},
}

@article {pmid42281342,
year = {2026},
author = {Nguyen, TM and Nguyet, PN and Long, NH and Le, NA and Anh, LH and Hieu, NP and Van Tri, D and Le Luu, T},
title = {Algae-to-Sludge Inoculation Ratio Regulates Organic Matter and Nitrogen Removal in Algal-Bacterial Symbiosis Systems Treating Shrimp Farming Wastewater.},
journal = {Water environment research : a research publication of the Water Environment Federation},
volume = {98},
number = {6},
pages = {e70446},
doi = {10.1002/wer.70446},
pmid = {42281342},
issn = {1554-7531},
support = {105.99-2025.60//Vietnam National Foundation for Science and Technology Development (NAFOSTED)/ ; },
abstract = {This study evaluated the influence of algae-to-sludge inoculation ratio on biomass development and pollutant removal in an algal-bacterial symbiotic system (ABSS) treating shrimp farming wastewater. Batch reactors operated at ratios of 1:2-1:6, along with monoculture controls, were assessed for biomass characteristics, organic matter removal, and nitrogen transformation. The 1:3 ratio achieved the most balanced biomass growth (MLSS: +54.9%; MLVSS: +57.8%) and the highest removal efficiencies, reaching 60.5% ± 7.3%, 89.4% ± 2.9%, and 55.2% ± 15.2% for chemical oxygen demand (COD), ammonium (NH4 [+]-N), and total nitrogen (TN), respectively. Co-culture reactors consistently outperformed monocultures, suggesting the benefits of coupling algal photosynthesis with bacterial metabolism. The results indicate that biomass balance is a key operational factor governing system performance, likely through its influence on oxygen availability, substrate utilization, and internal mass transfer. Optimizing the algae-to-sludge ratio provides a simple and effective strategy to enhance ABSS performance without increasing aeration demand, offering practical implications for sustainable aquaculture wastewater treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42282484,
year = {2026},
author = {Decena, MLÁ and Campos-Cáceres, M and Calderón-Pardo, D and Shiposha, V and Olonova, M and Pérez-Collazos, E and Catalán, P},
title = {A Palearctic divide, niche conservatism and host-fungal endophyte interactions shaped the phylogeography of the grass Brachypodium sylvaticum.},
journal = {Plant diversity},
volume = {48},
number = {3},
pages = {501-517},
pmid = {42282484},
issn = {2468-2659},
abstract = {Brachypodium sylvaticum is a perennial woodland grass selected as a model species for perenniality, which is widely distributed across the Palearctic. This plant forms a symbiosis with the endophytic fungus Epichloë sylvatica. Despite its widespread distribution and ecological importance, the evolutionary history of the B. sylvaticum complex and the role of its fungal symbiont remain poorly understood, and no integrative phylogeographic study of the grass-endophyte holobionts has been conducted to date. We hypothesize that niche dynamics and host-fungal interactions shaped the diversification and current distribution of the complex. We integrate whole-genome phylogenomics, plastome analysis, environmental niche modeling (ENM), and coevolutionary analyses to investigate the diversification of B. sylvaticum and its fungal symbiont. Using 94 representative individuals spanning Eurasia and North Africa, we recovered two deeply divergent sister lineages (Eastern and Western Palearctic), with cytonuclear discordances suggesting historical plastid capture events in the western group. Admixture analysis revealed four genetic clusters, including signatures of secondary contact and hybridization in the Western lineage. Filtered ITS sequences of E. sylvatica recovered from holobiont genome skimming reads enabled phylogenetic reconstruction, revealing two fungal clades that broadly mirror their host's evolutionary history in the West. Parafit and Procrustes Application to Cophylogenetic (PACO) analyses supported partial co-divergence between hosts and endophytes. ENM projections identified climatically stable glacial refugia for both B. sylvaticum main lineages during the Last Glacial Maximum and asymmetric postglacial expansion, with moderate niche shifts in the West and stronger turnover in the East. Evidence of niche overlap and similarity indicated niche conservatism among clades, suggesting that geographic isolation, rather than adaptive divergence, was the primary driver of lineage splitting. IBD and IBE patterns significantly influenced divergences in the Western, but not the Eastern, group, highlighting contrasting demographic and ecological dynamics. Our results provide the first evidence of coevolutionary and ecological structuring in B. sylvaticum-E. sylvatica holobionts across their Western native range, highlighting how this ubiquitous host-endophyte association may have contributed to the ecological success, persistence, and expansion of the complex under Quaternary climatic fluctuations.},
}

@article {pmid42282980,
year = {2026},
author = {Figura, T and Tylová, E and Novák, F and Merckx, VSFT and Ponert, J and Minasiewicz, J and Selosse, MA and Martos, F},
title = {Broad Fungal Compatibility and Seed Size May Facilitate Invasiveness in Two Asian Terrestrial Orchids Spathoglottis plicata and Arundina graminifolia.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {6},
pages = {e73805},
pmid = {42282980},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Two Asian orchids, the bamboo orchid (Arundina graminifolia) and the Philippine ground orchid (Spathoglottis plicata), are expanding into South and Central America, the Pacific, and Africa. Here, we tested whether seed traits and low in vitro selectivity toward mycorrhizal fungi may contribute to their successful spread outside the native range. We examined seed size and reserves, asymbiotic and symbiotic germination with orchid mycorrhizal fungi from different geographic regions. Both species have relatively large seeds, with A. graminifolia having some of the largest among orchids. Seeds contain lipids, proteins, and low amounts of soluble saccharides and starch. Despite these reserves, both orchids are initially mycoheterotrophic and require an external carbon source for early development. In asymbiotic culture, both species showed high germination on sucrose-containing media, with maximum germination exceeding 95%. In symbiotic culture, both species formed protocorms with Tulasnellaceae isolates from different continents, including isolates obtained from locations separated by more than 9000 km. This capacity was broader in S. plicata. Our results suggest that the success of S. plicata outside its native range may be facilitated by broad compatibility with Tulasnellaceae, some of which have a global distribution, and partly by self-pollination. In A. graminifolia, relatively large seeds may provide greater internal reserves for early development, but this species appears more specific toward certain Tulasnellaceae lineages and remains pollinator-dependent. Together with the ability to colonize disturbed habitats, these traits may help explain the successful spread of both orchids outside their native range.},
}

@article {pmid42283067,
year = {2026},
author = {Wei, F and Wang, X and Lv, H and Xia, H and Gan, G and Chen, X and Liu, X and Chen, H and Zhao, L},
title = {Identification of a potential novel Staphylococcus species via genomic sequencing: A neonatal infection case report.},
journal = {IDCases},
volume = {44},
number = {},
pages = {e02631},
pmid = {42283067},
issn = {2214-2509},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CoNS) are common symbiotic Gram-positive bacteria colonizing human skin and mucous membranes with lower virulence than Staphylococcus aureus. As crucial pathogens of neonatal infections, they often harbor multiple drug resistance genes and can induce neonatal pneumonia, sepsis, suppurative meningitis, and other clinical manifestations.

CASE PRESENTATION: A preterm neonate at 29[+1] weeks' gestation complicated by respiratory distress syndrome and pneumonia received empirical ceftazidime and penicillin for 8 days. The condition initially improved but suddenly deteriorated on postnatal day 17 with septic shock, fever, and anemia. Routine tests suggested Staphylococcus capitis infection, and targeted anti-infective and supportive treatments relieved symptoms. Given the inconsistenty between the infection severity and that of typical Staphylococcus infections, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) were further performed, identifying a potential novel Staphylococcus species closely related to Staphylococcus warneri. Nevertheless, the origin of this potential novel species remains unclear, which needs further verification.

CONCLUSION: For neonates with sudden clinical deterioration, intractable infection or ambiguous conventional microbial results, mNGS and WGS facilitate accurate pathogen identification and treatment adjustment. This potential novel strain discovery highlights the importance of enhanced vigilance against bacterial multidrug resistance and the emergence of potential novel pathogens in neonatal care.},
}

@article {pmid42283205,
year = {2026},
author = {Caregnato, A and Hohmann, U and Hothorn, M},
title = {Structure of the Arabidopsis receptor kinase SRF6 ectodomain determined from crystals obtained using the LRR crystallization screen.},
journal = {Acta crystallographica. Section D, Structural biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1107/S2059798326005498},
pmid = {42283205},
issn = {2059-7983},
support = {310030_205201//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung/ ; },
abstract = {Plant-specific membrane receptor kinases with structurally diverse extracellular domains regulate key processes in plant growth, development, immunity and symbiosis. Structural studies of these glycoproteins are often hampered by the limited quantities in which they can be obtained. Here, we describe the leucine-rich repeat (LRR) crystallization screen, which has enabled the successful crystallization and structure determination of multiple receptor kinase ectodomains, including ligand- and co-receptor-bound complexes. As an example, we report the 1.5 Å resolution crystal structure of the LRR domain of STRUBBELIG-RECEPTOR FAMILY 6 (SRF6) from Arabidopsis thaliana. The SRF6 ectodomain contains seven LRRs and a disulfide-bond-stabilized N-terminal capping domain but lacks the canonical C-terminal cap and the N-glycosylation pattern typically found in other family members. Previously reported protein-protein interactions between the SRF6 and SRF7 ectodomains and the receptor kinases BRI1, BRL1, BRL3, SERK3 and BIR1-BIR3 could not be confirmed by quantitative isothermal titration calorimetry and grating-coupled interferometry assays, suggesting that these structurally conserved LRR receptor kinases may have signalling functions outside the brassinosteroid pathway.},
}

@article {pmid42284160,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, F and Deng, K and Lin, X and Wen, X and Zhu, Y and Peng, S and Cai, K and Cai, S and Wu, Q and Zheng, X and Yu, Z and Mo, N and Zhu, H and Zheng, Y and Huang, J and Zheng, Y and Fox, EGP},
title = {Time-resolved comparative genomics of 'Candidatus Carsonella ruddii' across psyllid lineages reveals a conserved core genome and contrasting secondary symbiont dynamics.},
journal = {Microbial genomics},
volume = {12},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/mgen.0.001727},
pmid = {42284160},
issn = {2057-5858},
mesh = {Animals ; *Symbiosis/genetics ; *Genome, Bacterial ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Hemiptera/microbiology/classification ; Genomics ; },
abstract = {Psyllids harbour the obligate nutritional symbiont 'Candidatus Carsonella ruddii' (CaCr), yet complete CaCr genomes remain unevenly sampled across Psylloidea, limiting both comparative analysis and temporal inference. Here, seven complete CaCr genomes (165-174 kb) were assembled and annotated from psyllid hosts representing four families, including lineages for which genome-grade resources had previously been unavailable. We integrated whole-genome phylogenomics, pangenome analysis, fossil-calibrated relaxed-clock dating and quantitative PCR (based on 16S rRNA) screening of secondary symbionts. Across hosts, CaCr retained an extremely reduced, AT-rich (>82%) and gene-dense (>90% coding) genome architecture with a conserved core of 155 genes, while the accessory fraction was limited and lineage-specific. Most variable genes belonged to amino-acid metabolism or proteins of unknown function, suggesting differential erosion of peripheral functions around a stable translational and informational core. Phylogenomically, CaCr diversification broadly tracked deep host diversification, although the CaCr lineage from Diaphorina citri grouped with Triozidae-associated lineages rather than with other sampled Psyllidae. Using two host fossil-informed soft calibrations, we estimated that major CaCr divergences occurred mainly from the Paleogene to the Miocene, with crown diversification of Cacopsylla-associated CaCr at 15.95-18.99 Ma. In contrast to the stability of the primary symbiosis, secondary symbionts showed patchy host distributions: Wolbachia- and Arsenophonus-like lineages occurred in multiple hosts, 'Candidatus Profftella armatura' was restricted to D. citri, and no secondary symbiont was detected in Cacopsylla chinensis. These results provide a time-resolved comparative framework for CaCr evolution in psyllids and underscore the different evolutionary stability of primary and facultative associates.},
}

Animals
*Symbiosis/genetics
*Genome, Bacterial
Phylogeny
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Hemiptera/microbiology/classification
Genomics

@article {pmid42286259,
year = {2026},
author = {Jarosch, AC and Maloney, SNA and Weerasuriya, NM and Jacobs, CR and Thorn, RG},
title = {Community composition of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in Ontario tallgrass prairies of differing disturbance histories.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {36},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {42286259},
issn = {1432-1890},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), in the phylum Glomeromycota, form symbiotic relationships with most vascular plants, including grasses. Tallgrass prairies (TGPs) are an endangered habitat in Ontario; some undisturbed fragments remain and there have been efforts to restore disused agricultural land to prairie. The objective of this study was to investigate differences in the community composition of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi between disturbed and undisturbed TGP at five locations across southwestern Ontario. The V4 variable region of the small ribosomal subunit was amplified from DNAs extracted from soil samples, and sequence analysis yielded operational taxonomic units (OTUs) representing twelve genera of Glomeromycota. There was a significant difference in the community composition of the AMF communities in undisturbed TGP remnants and restored TGP that had been previously disturbed, with an overall greater community diversity and evenness in the undisturbed than previously disturbed sites. Ambispora fennica, three OTUs of Diversispora and four OTUs of Glomus were found to be potential indicator taxa of undisturbed TGPs and, overall, Glomus was significantly more abundant in undisturbed than disturbed sites. In contrast, two other OTUs of Diversispora, two of Entrophospora and one of Septoglomus were found to be potential indicator taxa of disturbed TGPs. These findings have implications for success of TGP restoration and should be considered in future efforts.},
}

@article {pmid42286422,
year = {2026},
author = {Odriozola, I and Větrovský, T and Barbi, F and Machac, A and Dobbler, PT and Turcu, C and Van Nuland, ME and Qin, C and Kiers, T and Soudzilovskaia, NA and Baldrian, P and Kohout, P},
title = {Global distribution and biogeography of ericoid mycorrhizal fungi.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71334},
pmid = {42286422},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {21-20802M//Grantová Agentura České Republiky/ ; CZ.02.01.01/00/22_008/0004597//Ministerstvo Školství, Mládeže a Tělovýchovy/ ; },
abstract = {Ericoid mycorrhizal (ErM) fungi play a crucial role across terrestrial ecosystems, forming mutualistic symbiosis with Ericaceae and contributing to soil organic matter dynamics. However, compared to other fungal groups, their biogeography remains unknown. Here, we combined several analytical approaches to analyze a newly compiled, large-scale dataset comprising 39 163 soil samples and more than 13 million ITS rRNA sequences assigned to ErM fungi. Specifically, we asked: What are the global patterns of ErM fungal species richness and relative abundance (out of all fungi) and their predictors, and how is the distribution of ErM fungi associated with soil carbon content at the global scale? We show that ErM fungi reach their highest species richness in very high latitudes. Soil chemistry is a stronger predictor of ErM fungal species richness than climate or ericoid vegetation cover. The relative abundance of ErM fungi is highest in soils with high surface carbon content, supporting their proposed role in soil carbon storage. Furthermore, we predict that climate change will reduce ErM fungal abundance across 38% of the land cover of their current global distribution. Our study shows distinct biogeographic patterns of ErM fungi compared with arbuscular and ectomycorrhizal fungi and indicates the vulnerability of ErM fungi to climate change.},
}

@article {pmid42002555,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, Y and Momin, AA and Hameed, UFS and Gourdoupis, S and Gonçalves, TP and Ma, H and Balakrishna, A and Huang, KW and Jaremko, Ł and Al-Babili, S and Arold, ST},
title = {Catalytic mechanism for β-carotene isomerisation and substrate selectivity by the strigolactone biosynthetic enzymes D27 and D27like1.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42002555},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {CRG//KAUST Competitive Research Grant 2022/ ; 5932//KAUST Center of Excellence for Smart Health (KCSH)/ ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Strigolactones (SLs) are important phytohormones that regulate plant architecture, stress response, and adaptation. SLs exuded by roots also act as signals that allow symbiotic fungi and root-parasitic Striga plants to detect their host. Carlactone, the precursor of SLs, is derived from all-trans-β-carotene through the sequential action of the enzymes DWARF27 (D27), carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase 7 (CCD7), and CCD8. D27 catalyses the isomerisation between all-trans and 9-cis-β-carotene, enriching 9-cis-β-carotene, which is the substrate for CCD7. D27 paralogues (D27likes) have also been reported to use 15-cis- or 13-cis-β-carotene isomers as substrates. The molecular basis for the isomerisation of β-carotene by the D27 enzyme family has remained elusive. By using AI-enabled protein structure prediction to guide experimental and computational methods, we demonstrate that D27 contains a 4Fe–4S cluster positioned deep within a hydrophobic cavity that can accommodate β-carotenes. This configuration allows iron cluster–mediated softening of β-carotene through a single-electron transfer reaction and subsequent cavity-induced stereodivergent isomerisation. Differences in cavity dimensions and stereochemistry explain the differences in isomer preference of D27 and D27like1 proteins. Structure-based analysis proposes that the rim areas lining the catalytic site openings of D27, CCD7, and CCD8 immerse into the membrane, implying a mechanism for sequential substrate capture from the membrane, catalysis, and product release into the membrane. Our findings fill a critical gap in the understanding of SL biosynthesis and may inspire new directed interventions to improve plant growth and resilience.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-026-45951-x.},
}

@article {pmid42268976,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, L and Wang, E and Ying, M and Luo, L and Ren, Y and Zhu, C and Li, J and Le, T and Feng, H and Wang, X and Chen, C and Li, Z and Ouyang, H},
title = {Restoration of endogenous electric fields with a glucose-powered symbiotic bioabsorbable bandage for diabetic wound healing.},
journal = {Science advances},
volume = {12},
number = {24},
pages = {eaed9445},
doi = {10.1126/sciadv.aed9445},
pmid = {42268976},
issn = {2375-2548},
abstract = {Endogenous electric fields (EFs) are essential for tissue regeneration but are diminished under hyperglycemia conditions, thereby impeding diabetic wound healing. Here, we report a biodegradable, glucose-powered electronic fabric bandage (GEB) that restores wound-edge electrical fields and enables closed-loop wound healing. To avoid compromising clinical applicability, we integrated all components into a soft, lightweight, and breathable bandage design to replace the traditional bulky electrical stimulator design. We also show the universal glucose-powered electricity generation and therapeutic functions of the electronic bandage across species and organs in diabetic wound models. In diabetic mouse wounds, porcine skin defects, and intestinal injury, the bandage uses endogenous glucose for power generation, thereby reducing local glucose levels and restoring the endogenous EF that guided cell migration, reprogrammed macrophage polarization, and promoted angiogenesis, to accelerate wound healing. These findings should establish an "endogenous glucose-powered symbiotic bioelectronics" paradigm for next-generation bioelectronic medicine.},
}

@article {pmid42269517,
year = {2026},
author = {Prokina, KI and López-García, P and Moreira, D},
title = {Diverse new species and genera of Developea (Stramenopiles) displaying self-aggregation and multiflagellated stages.},
journal = {Protist},
volume = {182},
number = {},
pages = {126167},
doi = {10.1016/j.protis.2026.126167},
pmid = {42269517},
issn = {1618-0941},
abstract = {Developea is a poorly studied group of flagellated protists, with only seven species known to date. It is closely related to parasitic oomycetes, hyphochytriomycetes, Pirsoniales, and photosynthetic ochrophytes (e.g., diatoms and brown algae), altogether forming the large clade Gyrista within supergroup Stramenopiles. Due to their deep phylogenetic position and phagotrophic feeding mode, developeans might have preserved ancestral characteristics shared with related large and important sister groups. Despite their cosmopolitan distribution, only few environmental 18S rRNA gene sequences related to Developea are known. Here we describe 12 new strains which represent eight new species and two new genera, as well as the previously described species Developayella elegans. We provide feeding experiments on diverse eukaryotic prey, including red algae, diatoms, and heterotrophic flagellates. The ability of the new developean species to successfully consume red algae represents missing piece of the previously postulated developean-like phagoheterotrophic model for the symbiotic ancestor of photosynthetic stramenopiles. Three species, including D. elegans, are omnivorous, i.e. able to survive on either eukaryotic or prokaryotic prey. Finally, we observe new and rare morphological features for Developea, such as facultative multiflagellated life stages, cysts and self-aggregation. These features might have been present in the ancestor of Stramenopiles.},
}

@article {pmid42269592,
year = {2026},
author = {Shi, Y and Zhang, C and Yang, W and Wang, H},
title = {Toward telomere-to-telomere genomics in Fabaceae: Unlocking comparative and functional insights into symbiotic nitrogen fixation.},
journal = {Cell genomics},
volume = {6},
number = {6},
pages = {101246},
doi = {10.1016/j.xgen.2026.101246},
pmid = {42269592},
issn = {2666-979X},
abstract = {The Fabaceae encompasses key agricultural species such as soybean, barrel medic (Medicago), and common bean, which are valued for their contributions to global food security and their ability to perform symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Although substantial progress has been made in sequencing economically important legumes, the taxonomic coverage remains uneven, with a disproportionate emphasis on model crops. Furthermore, most genome assemblies lack telomere-to-telomere (T2T) resolution, limiting insights into complex genomic regions and regulatory mechanisms. Emerging T2T technologies offer a transformative opportunity to overcome these limitations. By generating complete T2T assemblies for a representative range of Fabaceae species, including underrepresented lineages, researchers should obtain novel comparative and functional insights into the genetic and epigenetic bases of symbiotic nitrogen fixation. These high-resolution assemblies potentially facilitate the identification of conserved and divergent regulatory networks, shed light on the evolution of nodulation processes, and deepen our understanding of agronomically important traits.},
}

@article {pmid42270664,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Tang, Y and Wang, H and Zhang, J},
title = {A chromosome-level genome assembly of the chemosymbiotic species Rugalucina vietnamica (Lucinida: Lucinidae).},
journal = {Scientific data},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41597-026-07569-6},
pmid = {42270664},
issn = {2052-4463},
support = {42576103//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Rugalucina vietnamica is one of the representative symbiotic bivalves in marine chemosynthesis-based ecosystems. The species is concentrated along the Beibu Gulf-Qiongzhou Strait coastal region in the western Pacific, making it an ideal model for studying the evolution and dispersal of coastal benthic fauna in the South China Sea. However, the lack of a high-quality reference genome has limited the identification of genome-wide genetic variation and hindered population genomic investigations. In this study, we report a high-quality chromosome-level genome of R. vietnamica, generated by integrating PacBio, Illumina, and high-resolution chromosome conformation capture sequencing. The final assembled genome spans 1.23 Gb, with a scaffold N50 of 78 Mb, and was successfully anchored onto 17 chromosomes. BUSCO assessment recovered 96.50% of conserved metazoan genes, indicating high completeness. Genome annotation further revealed that transposable elements account for 65.56% of the genome, and a total of 18,649 protein-coding genes were predicted.},
}

@article {pmid42271057,
year = {2026},
author = {Bernabeu, M and Manzano-Morales, S and Marcet-Houben, M and Gabaldón, T},
title = {Gene ancestries reveal diverse microbial associations during eukaryogenesis.},
journal = {Nature},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42271057},
issn = {1476-4687},
abstract = {The origin of eukaryotes remains a central enigma in biology[1]. Continuing debates agree on the pivotal role of a symbiosis between an alphaproteobacterium and an Asgard archaeon[2,3]. However, the nature, timing and contributions of other potential bacterial partners[4-6] and the role of interactions with viruses[7-9] remain contentious. To address these questions, we used advanced phylogenomic approaches and comprehensive datasets spanning the known diversity of cellular life and viruses. Our analysis provided a revised reconstruction of the last eukaryotic common ancestor (LECA) proteome, in which we traced the phylogenetic origin of each protein family. We found compelling evidence for multiple waves of horizontal gene transfer from diverse bacterial donors, with some likely to have preceded mitochondrial endosymbiosis. We inferred plausible traits of the major donors and their functional contributions to the LECA. Our findings support a contribution of horizontal gene transfers to shaping the proteomes of pre-LECA ancestors and suggest a facilitating role of Nucleocytoviricota viruses. Taken together, our results suggest that ancient eukaryotes may have originated within complex microbial ecosystems through a succession of diverse associations that left a footprint of horizontally transferred genes.},
}

@article {pmid42274480,
year = {2026},
author = {Shen, K and Xu, M and Zhou, W and Zhou, H and Wang, W and Su, Y and He, H and Yang, S},
title = {Community Succession and Diversity Variation of Endophytic and Rhizosphere Soil Bacteria Across Gastrodia elata Seed Formation Stages.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {15},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {42274480},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {32160063//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 202401BA070001-121//Special Basic Cooperative Research Programs of Yunnan Provincial Undergraduate Universities' Association/ ; 202501BA070001-100//Special Basic Cooperative Research Programs of Yunnan Provincial Undergraduate Universities' Association/ ; 2024//the Scientific and Technological Innovation Team Program of Yunnan Provincial Department of Education/ ; 2026J1148//the Science Research Fund Project of Yunnan Provincial Department of Education/ ; 2023-3//the Zhaotong "Xingzhao Talent Support Program" Team Project/ ; },
abstract = {The Gastrodia elata Blume (GE) life cycle is unique, since its successful germination and growth rely on symbiosis with specific fungi (e.g., Armillaria mellea). However, the community succession, tissue specificity and functional potential of endophytic and rhizosphere bacterial communities during the seed formation stage of GE remain unclear. Here, we used high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing to systematically explore the composition, diversity, and dynamic succession of bacterial communities across different stages of seed formation and among various tissues. Our results revealed that the endophytic community remained relatively stable across most developmental stages and tissue types (ANOSIM R = 0.4568, p = 0.001), with significant compositional shifts only occurring at the fruiting stage in specific tissues (stems and seeds). In contrast, the rhizosphere soil bacterial community showed stronger developmental succession (ANOSIM R = 0.7037, p = 0.001), with progressive divergence and the strongest segregation observed between the initial planting and fruiting stages. Alpha diversity peaked at the flowering stage for endophytic bacteria (Shannon index) and at the bud formation stage for rhizosphere soil bacteria, with persistent core taxa (Bacteroides in endophytic bacteria, Pseudarthrobacter in rhizosphere soil bacteria) dominating across stages. Functional predictions revealed stable core metabolic pathways, with stage-specific enrichments of glycolysis or gluconeogenesis at late developmental stages. These results provide novel ecological insights into the spatiotemporal dynamics of bacterial communities across different stages of GE seed formation, highlighting the distinct ecological strategies of endophytic and rhizosphere soil bacteria during the reproductive development of the plant.},
}

@article {pmid42274548,
year = {2026},
author = {Alghannam, K and Michoud, G and Barozzi, A and Al Romaih, S and Alhazmi, R and Vernooij, B and Odokonyero, K and Gallo, A and Mishra, H and Daffonchio, D and Marasco, R},
title = {Promicromonospora noduliphila sp. nov., a nodulation-enhancing actinobacterium isolated from the root nodules of grey-hair acacia planted in the Khurais desert, Saudi Arabia.},
journal = {International journal of systematic and evolutionary microbiology},
volume = {76},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/ijsem.0.007173},
pmid = {42274548},
issn = {1466-5034},
abstract = {A set of actinobacterial strains was isolated from the root nodules of Acacia gerrardii grown as part of an afforestation trial in the Khurais desert, Saudi Arabia. Among them, five clonal isolates could not be unambiguously assigned to any recognized type species, and two of them, designated AC027S[T] and AC027N, were selected as representatives for taxonomic characterization. Cells were Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, non-motile, non-spore-forming, with short rods to coccoid-like morphology. Growth occurred at 20-42 °C, pH 5.0-10.0 and in the presence of up to 3.0% (w/v) NaCl. The major whole-cell sugar was glucose, and the muramic acid residues of the peptidoglycan carried peptide subunits composed of alanine, glutamic acid and lysine. The predominant menaquinone was MK-9(H4). Major fatty acids were iso-C15:0 and anteiso-C15:0, and the polar lipid profile included diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerols and several unidentified glycophospholipids, glycolipids, phospholipids and lipids. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences placed AC027S[T] and AC027N within the genus Promicromonospora. Whole-genome sequence-based phylogenomic reconstruction and relatedness indices confirmed that these G+C-rich strains (72%) are distinct from all described Promicromonospora species, with Promicromonospora soli NEAU-GS50[T] as the closest described relative. Consistent with their nodule-associated niche, the strains were able to degrade and utilize plant-derived substrates, tolerate microaerophilic conditions and possessed genes for mobilizing essential metals, such as iron and molybdenum, suggesting a supportive role in the nodule microbial community and in sustaining rhizobial nitrogen fixation, as reflected in an enhanced nodulation by native rhizobia when inoculated in desert soil. Based on phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and genomic evidence, strains AC027S[T] and AC027N represent a novel species of the genus Promicromonospora, for which the name Promicromonospora noduliphila sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is AC027S[T] (=KCTC 59476[ᵀ], =JCM 37759ᵀ).},
}

@article {pmid42274741,
year = {2026},
author = {Kirichek, EA and Kusakin, PG and Gorshkov, AP and Tsyganova, AV and Tsyganov, VE},
title = {The symbiotic interface in Pisum sativum L. and Rhizobium laguerreae interactions.},
journal = {Protoplasma},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42274741},
issn = {1615-6102},
support = {23-16-00090//Russian Science Foundation/ ; 23-16-00090//Russian Science Foundation/ ; 23-16-00090//Russian Science Foundation/ ; 23-16-00090//Russian Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Symbiotic interface plays a crucial role in symbiosis development and stability. In this study, the progressive remodeling of symbiotic interface components, such as pectins, arabinogalactan proteins, bacterial lipopolysaccharides, and others, were analyzed in pea (Pisum sativum L.) nodules induced with siх strains of Rhizobium laguerreae. Some strains induced effective nodules while others ineffective ones. The organization of the symbiotic interface in ineffective nodules differed from that in effective ones. Indeed, ineffective nodules were characterized by reduced pectin modification activity and lack of de-esterified homogalacturonan accumulation. Additionally, abnormal localization of arabinogalactan proteins, arabinogalactan protein-extensin, and callose was observed in response to certain rhizobia strains, indicating the involvement of these components in defense mechanisms during symbiosis. Transcriptome analysis of ineffective nodules revealed activation of plant defense responses and responses to the biotic stresses. Thus, abnormalities in the organization of the symbiotic interface were revealed, accompanying ineffective interaction of pea with R. laguerreae strains.},
}

@article {pmid42274808,
year = {2026},
author = {Soltani-Moghadam, F and Kafil, HS and Sefidan, FY and Nezhadi, J and Saedi, S and Mohammadzadeh-Asl, Y and Sattarpour, S and Rezaee, MA},
title = {Gut Bacteria: A Beneficial Symbiosis or a Hidden Threat? Investigating the Dual Role of Bacteria in Gastrointestinal Diseases.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42274808},
issn = {1432-0991},
support = {Tabriz University of Medical Sciences//Tabriz University of Medical Sciences/ ; },
abstract = {The intestinal microbiota is a highly dynamic and intricate system that supports digestive function, modulates immune responses, and protects against gut disorders. This review explores the impact of gut microorganisms on gastrointestinal conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC), and colorectal cancer (CRC). Beneficial microbiota such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium, and Akkermansia help reduce inflammation and maintain intestinal homeostasis by producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These metabolites regulate immune mechanisms and reinforce the gut barrier while also suppressing harmful pathogens. In contrast, pathogenic bacteria including Fusobacterium nucleatum, Escherichia coli, Bacteroides fragilis, and Clostridium difficile contribute to gastrointestinal disorders by producing toxins, increasing mucosal permeability, and stimulating inflammatory responses. Additionally, microbial dysbiosis-alterations in microbiota composition-can lead to chronic inflammation and neoplastic changes in intestinal cells, thereby promoting CRC development. Future studies may further clarify microbiota-pathogen interactions, which may provide a basis for exploratory therapeutic strategies.},
}