@article {pmid42646148,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Z and Wang, N and Zhang, H and Qian, B and Wang, D and Wang, Y},
title = {Establishment of an Efficient CRISPR-Cas9-Mediated Gene Disruption System in the Lichen-Forming Fungus Umbilicaria muhlenbergii.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42646148},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {32422003//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; XDB0810000//Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; },
abstract = {Lichen-forming fungi establish intimate symbiotic associations with photosynthetic partners and play important roles in diverse ecosystems, but functional genetic studies in these organisms remain limited by the lack of efficient genome-editing tools. In this study, we established an efficient CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene disruption system in Umbilicaria muhlenbergii. Using this system, we achieved the targeted disruption of six candidate transcription factors with a high replacement efficiency of up to 65.0%. No off-target mutations were detected in any of the three independent mutants examined for each target gene. Preliminary phenotypic characterization of the resulting mutants revealed that disruption of UmSOM1 markedly impaired fungal growth, induced pseudohyphal development, and altered colony morphology and pigmentation. Compared with conventional homologous recombination, the CRISPR-Cas9 system substantially improved gene disruption efficiency, thereby overcoming a major limitation in the genetic manipulation of lichen-forming fungi. This system provides a robust platform for functional genomic studies and will accelerate investigations into the molecular mechanisms underlying fungal-algal symbiosis and morphological transitions in lichen-forming fungi.},
}

@article {pmid42646465,
year = {2026},
author = {Shan, X and Wang, Y and Wang, W and Wang, M and Yue, S and Qin, F and Dong, M and Ahmed, W and Li, L and Lin, S and Mehmood, S and Li, W},
title = {Evaluation of Redox-Mediated Responses of Coral Symbiotic Dinoflagellates to Nano-Selenium.},
journal = {Marine drugs},
volume = {24},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42646465},
issn = {1660-3397},
support = {2024ZRBSHZ148//Ministry of Natural Resources and provincial authorities in China/ ; KYQD(ZR)-21018//Hainan University/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Dinoflagellida/drug effects/metabolism ; Oxidation-Reduction/drug effects ; Symbiosis/drug effects ; Antioxidants/pharmacology/metabolism ; *Anthozoa ; *Selenium/pharmacology/chemistry ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; Lipid Peroxidation/drug effects ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Photosynthesis/drug effects ; },
abstract = {This study investigated species-specific physiological and redox responses of two coral symbiotic dinoflagellates, Cladocopium sp. and Durusdinium sp., to green-synthesized nano-selenium (SeNP) gradients, with implications for eco-friendly marine antifouling. Growth, photosynthetic pigments, antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD, CAT), lipid peroxidation (MDA), and osmo-protectants were assessed to elucidate mechanisms. Both species exhibited a biphasic (hormetic) response, with stimulation at low concentrations and inhibition at high levels. At 50-100 mg L[-1], Cladocopium sp. showed enhanced growth, pigments, antioxidant activity, and osmotic regulation, with reduced oxidative stress, indicating improved redox homeostasis. In contrast, ≥150 mg L[-1] disrupted redox balance and suppressed growth. Durusdinium sp. displayed slower growth but maintained stable pigments, consistent antioxidant activity, and low MDA, reflecting a tolerance-oriented strategy. Overall, SeNPs synergistically regulate antioxidant systems and osmotic homeostasis to balance the intracellular redox status of symbiotic dinoflagellates, indicating their potential as antioxidant agents to improve the growth performance of symbiotic dinoflagellates in coral nursery cultivation.},
}

Animals
*Dinoflagellida/drug effects/metabolism
Oxidation-Reduction/drug effects
Symbiosis/drug effects
Antioxidants/pharmacology/metabolism
*Anthozoa
*Selenium/pharmacology/chemistry
Oxidative Stress/drug effects
Lipid Peroxidation/drug effects
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
Photosynthesis/drug effects

@article {pmid42647619,
year = {2026},
author = {Da-Anoy, J and Chen, MH and Bouchie, A and Dougherty, J and Lapadula, AKH and Skena, A and Wang, W and Abraham, T and Thompson, KR and Jasnos, O and Toyama, KS and Ayivor, J and Diya, O and Gilmore, TD and Davies, SW},
title = {Algae-specific immune modulation influences responses to heat and pathogen challenge in a symbiotic coral.},
journal = {Science advances},
volume = {12},
number = {35},
pages = {eady0833},
pmid = {42647619},
issn = {2375-2548},
mesh = {Animals ; *Anthozoa/microbiology/immunology/genetics/physiology ; *Symbiosis ; *Hot Temperature ; Vibrio/physiology ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology ; Oxidative Stress ; Transcriptome ; },
abstract = {The role of symbiotic algae in coral life history and host health is well documented, but the immune and physiological trade-offs of hosting these symbionts remain less explored. While association with the algal symbionts of the genus Durusdinium is known to confer thermotolerance, it has also been linked to coral tissue loss under stress. We investigated whether algal type influences host immunity and stress responses in the tropical coral Pocillopora acuta. Durusdinium-hosting (D-hosting) P. acuta have distinct transcriptomic profiles, higher immune-related gene expression, and elevated baseline levels of immunity transcription factor nuclear factor κB as compared to corals hosting Cladocopium (C-hosting). Under heat challenge, D-hosting P. acuta exhibited tissue loss, oxidative stress, and immune and microbial dysregulation, whereas C-hosting P. acuta were more susceptible to bleaching, metabolic dysregulation, and decline in nitrogen-fixing and antioxidant-producing bacteria. Last, infection with the bacterium Vibrio coralliilyticus caused high tissue loss in D-hosting corals but not in C-hosting corals. Our results suggest a mechanism for how Durusdinium association enhances thermotolerance yet predisposes corals to tissue damage under stress, suggesting immune trade-offs that can compromise host survival under multiple stressors.},
}

Animals
*Anthozoa/microbiology/immunology/genetics/physiology
*Symbiosis
*Hot Temperature
Vibrio/physiology
*Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology
Oxidative Stress
Transcriptome

@article {pmid42648148,
year = {2026},
author = {Du, X and Zhang, Z and Wang, Z and Song, W and Lin, D and Qu, F},
title = {Biochemical oxidation-mediated simultaneous removal of manganese and sulfamethazine in solar-activated algal-MnOBacteria symbiotic membrane bioreactor.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {308},
number = {Pt A},
pages = {126757},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.126757},
pmid = {42648148},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {The combined pollution of manganese (Mn) and sulfonamide antibiotics in eutrophic reservoir water poses urgent threat to drinking water safety. In this study, a novel solar-activated algal-MnOBacterial symbiotic membrane bioreactor (SAB-MBR) was assembled to address this issue via multiple biochemical oxidation processes. SAB-MBR achieved over 93% Mn(II) removal and reliably satisfied the Standards for Drinking Water Quality (0.1 mg/L) within 4 days. Sulfamethazine was eliminated with >99% from very beginning. This system also exhibited the highest membrane permeability (29.3 L/(m[2]·h)) and an advantageous hydraulic retention time of approximately 100 min. Illumination triggered algal extracellular organic matter (EOM) to act as natural photosensitizer, facilitating superoxide radical (O2•[-]) generation by 77% compared to non-illuminated controls. The synergistic effects between birnessite and EOM enriched highly reactive Mn(III) species, accelerating abiotic oxidation of Mn(II) and sulfamethazine. XPS and EPR analyses confirm the establishment of an efficient autocatalytic oxidation cycle. Microbial community analysis evidences the enrichment of manganese-oxidizing and organic-degrading bacteria, along with the accumulation of relevant functional genes. Elevated catalase gene expression further protected Mn(III) from H2O2-mediated reduction. Overall, SAB-MBR constitutes a low-carbon solution for efficiently addressing the combined challenges of manganese and antibiotic contamination in eutrophic reservoir water.},
}

@article {pmid42650009,
year = {2026},
author = {Franczak, J and Latif, A},
title = {Monocarboxylate Transporter 1 (MCT1) in Cancer Biology: Canonical Transport Functions, Metabolic-Epigenetic Crosstalk and Emerging Nuclear Localisation.},
journal = {Cancers},
volume = {18},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cancers18162699},
pmid = {42650009},
issn = {2072-6694},
support = {MR/W007428/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; },
abstract = {MCT1 (encoded by SLC16A1) is a key regulator of cellular metabolism, mediating proton-coupled transport of lactate, pyruvate, ketone bodies, and other monocarboxylates across biological membranes. Long recognised for its canonical role in metabolic homeostasis and the lactate shuttle, MCT1 is now implicated in tumour-promoting processes, including metabolic symbiosis, angiogenesis, immune evasion, and therapy resistance. Aberrant plasma membrane MCT1 (PM MCT1) expression is observed in diverse malignancies, where it may carry prognostic or predictive value, making it an attractive therapeutic target. This review integrates established metabolic functions of MCT1 with emerging evidence showing its unexpected nuclear localisation (nMCT1) and potential to modulate chromatin state through metabolite-driven epigenetic regulation. In particular, we discuss how PM MCT1 substrates such as lactate, pyruvate, and ketone bodies may influence histone modifications and gene regulation through direct or indirect metabolic mechanisms. We also examine reports of nuclear or nuclear-associated MCT1 (nMCT1) staining in immune and cancer contexts, while emphasising that functions of nMCT1 remain insufficiently validated. By distinguishing established transport biology from substrate-mediated epigenetic effects, this review highlights both the therapeutic promise of MCT1 targeting and the experimental gaps that must be addressed. We conclude by outlining priorities for future research, including orthogonal validation of putative nMCT1, improved patient stratification based on MCT1 expression and metabolic phenotype, and rational combination strategies for MCT1-directed therapies.},
}

@article {pmid42650258,
year = {2026},
author = {Dorantes-Aranda, JJ and Rottier, C and Camp, EF and Matthews, JL and Ferrier-Pagès, C},
title = {Trophic Antioxidant Transfer as a Measure for Scalable Coral Conservation Strategies.},
journal = {Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antiox15080994},
pmid = {42650258},
issn = {2076-3921},
support = {1184//G20 Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (CORDAP)/ ; },
abstract = {Coral reefs are increasingly threatened by elevated seawater temperatures associated with heatwaves and El Niño events. These phenomena challenge conventional management practices, highlighting an urgent need for innovative interventions to enhance reef resilience. Investigating the role of oxidative stress-one of the main explanations for coral bleaching-is central to these efforts, as excessive production of reactive oxygen species can impair coral physiology, disrupt the coral-algal symbiosis, and ultimately lead to mortality. Here, we investigated an antioxidant-rich food web approach by feeding the reef-building coral Stylophora pistillata with Artemia that had been pre-fed with (i) low-cost and in-house-produced pellets containing curcumin, fucoxanthin, astaxanthin, vitamins C or E, or (ii) the phytoplankton species Pavlova lutheri, Symbiodinium sp., Nannochloropsis sp., Dunaliella salina or Synechococcus sp. Curcumin and the microalga P. lutheri offered the best protection to corals against oxidative stress, and represent the best candidates for potential scalable coral conservation interventions involving targeted feeding of antioxidants. Curcumin pellets offer a streamlined alternative to P. lutheri by eliminating the need for multi-stage microalgal culturing. Direct enrichment of Artemia with antioxidant-rich pellets simplifies production and may provide a cost-effective, scalable strategy to enhance coral resilience to oxidative stress, bleaching and potential mortality.},
}

@article {pmid42650859,
year = {2026},
author = {Tang, Z and Fan, S and Lin, G and Yuan, T and Yang, S},
title = {Advances in Imaging of Plant Ca[2+] Signaling.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {16},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biom16081193},
pmid = {42650859},
issn = {2218-273X},
support = {No grant number was assigned to this institutional support.//Northeast Forestry University/ ; },
mesh = {*Calcium Signaling ; *Plants/metabolism ; *Calcium/metabolism ; Stress, Physiological ; *Molecular Imaging/methods ; },
abstract = {Calcium ions (Ca[2+]) function as ubiquitous second messengers that translate environmental and developmental cues into spatially and temporally defined cellular responses in plants. This review summarizes the cellular architecture and molecular mechanisms that generate, shape, and terminate Ca[2+] signals, with emphasis on plasma-membrane channels, intracellular stores, pumps, exchangers, and organelle-associated transport systems. We also examine the development of live Ca[2+] indicators, from chemical dyes and aequorin to ratiometric and single-fluorophore genetically encoded calcium indicators, and discuss principles for selecting sensors for different tissues and subcellular compartments. Recent studies have applied these tools to abiotic stress, plant immunity, polar growth, development, symbiosis, and systemic signaling. Accurate quantitative imaging nevertheless requires careful matching of sensor properties to the target cellular environment and rigorous control of motion, spectral interference, and analytical procedures. Combining improved indicators with advanced microscopy, genetic validation, and standardized data analysis should help connect distinct Ca[2+] signatures with their molecular origins and physiological roles.},
}

*Calcium Signaling
*Plants/metabolism
*Calcium/metabolism
Stress, Physiological
*Molecular Imaging/methods

@article {pmid42652430,
year = {2026},
author = {Kashkouli, M and Khajehali, J and Mehrabadi, M},
title = {Manipulation of Microbial Symbionts in Bemisia tabaci and Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) Reveals Divergent Impacts on Insect Host Fitness and Plant Defense Modulation.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {17},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/insects17080775},
pmid = {42652430},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {4004174//Iranian National Science Foundation (INSF)/ ; },
abstract = {Insect-microbe symbioses play pivotal roles in host ecology and plant-insect interactions, yet their species-specific functions in agricultural pests remain less understood. This study elucidates the functional role of symbiotic microbial communities in mediating insect host fitness and plant defense responses in two economically important whitefly species, Bemisia tabaci Gennadius and Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae). Using integrated molecular and physiological approaches, we characterized species-specific responses to antibiotic treatments (rifampicin and tetracycline) and their cascading effects on tripartite plant-insect-microbe interactions. In B. tabaci, antibiotic exposure induced significant depletion of the obligate symbiont Portiera and facultative Rickettsia (except for tetracycline-mediated Portiera proliferation), correlating with enhanced plant immune responses. In parallel, antibiotic treatments increased the titers of Hamiltonella and Rickettsia alongside constitutive plant defense suppression in T. vaporariorum, though tetracycline uniquely induced AOS expression elevation. Developmental assays revealed stage-specific vulnerabilities, with late nymphal and pupal stages showing high sensitivity to symbiont disruption, culminating in complete mortality within 40-50 d post-treatment. These findings show that microbial symbionts are essential to whitefly nutrition and evasion of plant anti-herbivore defenses. Our results provide a mechanistic basis for understanding symbiont-assisted invasion success in these whitefly species and underscore the potential of microbiome-targeted approaches for sustainable whitefly management.},
}

@article {pmid42652469,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, Y and Jiang, X and Wang, D and Dong, Q and Zhang, X and Wang, Y and Ye, W},
title = {Transcriptional Reshaping of Bacteriocytes in the Aphid-Serratia Symbiosis.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {17},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/insects17080815},
pmid = {42652469},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {25JRRK003//Gansu Provincial Science and Technology Department/ ; No. 2026JY01//Longnan City Science and Technology Plan Project/ ; },
abstract = {The facultative endosymbiont Serratia symbiotica significantly influences the ecological fitness of its aphid host. However, the molecular mechanisms by which Serratia affects the host's symbiotic organ, the bacteriocyte, remain poorly understood. Here, we conducted a comparative transcriptomic analysis of bacteriocytes from Serratia- and Serratia+ pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum) strains. Our analysis revealed that Serratia colonization extensively modulates gene expression within bacteriocytes. Key metabolic pathways were significantly altered: genes involved in ribosomal biogenesis and oxidative phosphorylation were upregulated, while those in fatty acid biosynthesis were downregulated. Furthermore, we observed a complex reshaping of the immune profile, characterized by a broad downregulation of immune recognition and signaling components alongside an upregulation of specific effector genes and antioxidant enzymes. These findings suggest that Serratia induces a state of enhanced anabolic capacity and energy production in bacteriocytes, coupled with strategic reallocation of resources and a finely tuned immune response that balances symbiont tolerance with control. Our RT-qPCR validation confirmed the RNA-seq results, further supporting these results. This study provides the first bacteriocyte-specific transcriptomic resource for the aphid-Serratia interaction system, offering novel insights into the molecular integration of a facultative symbiont into host physiology.},
}

@article {pmid42652525,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, PR and Shelomi, M},
title = {Effect of Protein Supplementation on the Gut Microbiome of Omnivorous and Herbivorous Goliath Beetles.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {17},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/insects17080871},
pmid = {42652525},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {NSTC-114-2311-B-002-017//National Science and Technology Council/ ; 113L7801//Ministry of Education/ ; },
abstract = {Scarab beetles depend on gut microbes for digestive enzymes. Some species' microbiomes show taxonomic conservation regardless of diet, while others have conserved functional profiles. We compared the hindgut microbiomes of two Cetoniinae beetle larvae: the obligately saproxylophagous Mecynorrhinella poggei and the omnivorous/predatory Goliathus goliatus, which requires protein supplementation when reared artificially. Two diets with and without supplementation were used. If diet drives the microbiome, then gut microbes in protein-supplemented hosts should produce fewer lignocellulolytic enzymes and more proteinases regardless of species. If microbiome composition is conserved within a species, then Mecynorrhinella is expected to have more lignocellulolytic microbes while Goliathus should have more proteinolytic microbes regardless of diet. In this study, low-protein diets reduced G. goliatus growth, but gut microbiome composition and predicted function remained largely stable, dominated by Bacteroidales including Dysgonomonas, Proteiniphilum, and Alistipes. Mecynorrhinella's gut microbiome showed some reduced Proteiniphilum and increased Dysgonomonas relative abundance, but otherwise the microbiome composition was statistically stable with no effect of diet on growth or predicted microbiome function. These results highlight that microbiomes of closely related insects can markedly differ even if diet does not and that microbiome functional conservation tied to host physiology may occur even if greater plasticity could theoretically reduce malnutrition.},
}

@article {pmid42653362,
year = {2026},
author = {Gupta, A and Nair, S},
title = {Microbiome-Epigenome Interplay Impacts Microbial Symbiosis and Stress Adaptations in the Brown Planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens).},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27167357},
pmid = {42653362},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {Core Grants//International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology/ ; Extra-mural Grants//Department of Biotechnology/ ; Extra-mural Grants//Department of Science and Technology/ ; Senior Research Fellowship//Council of Scientific and Industrial Research/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Hemiptera/microbiology/genetics/physiology ; *Symbiosis/genetics ; *Stress, Physiological/genetics ; *Epigenome ; *Epigenesis, Genetic ; *Adaptation, Physiological/genetics ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/genetics ; Azacitidine/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {The gut microbiota and epigenetic processes both contribute to insect survival and adaptation; however, the relationship between these two systems remains largely unexplored. In this study, we used the brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens; BPH) to explore microbiome-epigenome interactions and evaluate its impact on BPH survivability under environmental stress. Disruption of the gut microbiome using antibiotics significantly altered the epigenetic profile of various stress-responsive genes in the BPH. Similarly, perturbations in the epigenome induced by 5-azacytidine resulted in an altered microbiome with diverse metabolic capacities, thus indicating the potential role of epigenetics in maintaining microbial symbiosis in BPH. Further, analysis of gene expression profiles revealed that 5-azacytidine treatment altered the mRNA levels of various genes involved in BPH immunity, suggesting that epigenetic mechanisms regulate and sustain microbial symbionts in insects by modulating their immune system. Altogether, these findings suggest an interplay between the epigenome and microbiome, that influences gene regulation and microbe-mediated regulation of shared metabolic pathways in BPH. Our results highlight new research avenues into the molecular mechanisms of symbiont-enabled herbivory and have implications for future studies on the relationship between gut microbiota and epigenetic mechanisms, the evolution of these processes and their effects on insect-plant interactions in changing environments.},
}

Animals
*Hemiptera/microbiology/genetics/physiology
*Symbiosis/genetics
*Stress, Physiological/genetics
*Epigenome
*Epigenesis, Genetic
*Adaptation, Physiological/genetics
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/genetics
Azacitidine/pharmacology

@article {pmid42653408,
year = {2026},
author = {Marczak, Ł and Strugała, A and Szuba, A},
title = {High-Throughput Analysis Reveals Stable Metabolome of Paxillus involutus Under White Light Exposure Despite Reduced Mycelium Growth.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27167405},
pmid = {42653408},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {DEC-2011/03/D/NZ9/05500//National Science Centre/ ; },
mesh = {*Metabolome/radiation effects ; *Light ; *Mycelium/growth & development/metabolism/radiation effects ; *Basidiomycota/metabolism/growth & development/radiation effects ; Metabolomics/methods ; Mycorrhizae/metabolism/growth & development/radiation effects ; Oxidative Stress ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; Hydrogen Peroxide/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Ectomycorrhizal fungi are rarely exposed to light in their natural soil habitat, and, in consequence, the metabolic effects of light exposure on mycelia's molecular status remain largely uncharacterized. Meanwhile, such information may fill knowledge gaps and provide baseline data to understand their ecological resilience, abiotic stress responses, and metabolic regulation. This study analyzed the impact of white light on the metabolome of the ectomycorrhizal fungus Paxillus involutus. Mycelia were grown for six weeks under darkness (control) and white light conditions (150 μmol·m[-2]·s[-1]; 16/8 day/night periods). Treated mycelia were characterized by phenotypic alterations, mainly decreased growth and formation of more compact hyphal biomass. Although treated Paxillus had increased H2O2 concentrations, P. involutus exposed to light had unchanged malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating that light exposure does not lead to severe oxidative stress. Indeed, a high-throughput GC-MS study revealed that the metabolome of mycelia exposed to light did not differ significantly from that of the controls, with only a few compounds showing altered abundances, all of which were more abundant in the light-exposed treatment. Lyxose and ribitol showed significant differences between treatments based on unadjusted p-values, as confirmed by individual t-tests, whereas only xylonic acid remained significant after FDR correction (α = 0.05). This finding is consistent with the overall pattern observed in the PCA and suggests that subtle changes in metabolite abundances may contribute to the observed phenotypic modifications. This first high-throughput metabolomic analysis of ectomycorrhizal mycelium exposed to light indicates that, although light is commonly considered a stress factor for soil fungi, it does not cause significant modifications in the Paxillus involutus metabolome, despite visible phenotypic changes in the mycelium. Although this study focuses solely on mycelium and does not investigate different light spectra, it may help explain potential implications for symbiotic plant interactions under fluctuating light conditions in soil ecosystems.},
}

*Metabolome/radiation effects
*Light
*Mycelium/growth & development/metabolism/radiation effects
*Basidiomycota/metabolism/growth & development/radiation effects
Metabolomics/methods
Mycorrhizae/metabolism/growth & development/radiation effects
Oxidative Stress
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Hydrogen Peroxide/metabolism

@article {pmid42653409,
year = {2026},
author = {Samarina, L and Turbekova, A and Jantassov, S and Demir, H and Kozhakhmetova, F and Begalina, A and Akzhunis, R and Aisakulova, K},
title = {Light-Root Microbiome Interactions in Vegetable Crops: From Photoreceptor Signaling to Exudate-Mediated Recruitment.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27167408},
pmid = {42653409},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {AP23488411//Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan/ ; },
mesh = {*Microbiota/radiation effects ; *Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism/radiation effects ; *Light ; *Crops, Agricultural/microbiology/metabolism ; Symbiosis ; *Vegetables/microbiology/metabolism ; Signal Transduction ; Rhizosphere ; },
abstract = {In protected cultivation, light intensity, spectral quality, red/far-red ratio, photoperiod and diel fluctuation can alter the belowground biological environment by modifying carbon allocation, root architecture, root exudation, nutrient acquisition, immune tone and rhizosphere physicochemistry. Direct community-level evidence in vegetables remains sparse, but targeted experiments on bacterial colonization, arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis, beneficial fungi and root pathogens show that light can condition specific plant-microbe interactions. This review develops a molecular framework for light-root-microbiome interactions in protected vegetable crops and distinguishes direct community evidence, targeted colonization or symbiosis evidence, crop-specific indirect evidence and mechanistic analogues. We synthesize how photoreceptors and PIF-, HY5-, hormone- and immunity-related pathways regulate root niche construction, while also considering direct microbial photoreception. Experimental examples include tomato rhizosphere responses to shading, R:FR-dependent colonization by Serratia plymuthica, phyB-HY5-strigolactone control of tomato mycorrhization, light-intensity effects on lettuce-AMF interactions, spectrum-dependent Trichoderma harzianum colonization and light sensing by Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum. The evidence supports the view that light acts as a conditional regulator whose effects depend on crop genotype, microbial partner, substrate, nutrient status and developmental stage. Progress will require factorial lighting experiments coupled with exudomics, stable-isotope tracing, absolute microbial quantification, isolate genomics, synthetic communities and pathogen-challenge assays.},
}

*Microbiota/radiation effects
*Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism/radiation effects
*Light
*Crops, Agricultural/microbiology/metabolism
Symbiosis
*Vegetables/microbiology/metabolism
Signal Transduction
Rhizosphere

@article {pmid42654236,
year = {2026},
author = {Julien, V and Carvalho, JP and Andrade, JC and Rodrigues, CF and Rajão, A},
title = {The Impact of Children's Dietary Habits on the Oral Microbiome: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {18},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/nu18162656},
pmid = {42654236},
issn = {2072-6643},
mesh = {Humans ; *Microbiota/physiology ; *Feeding Behavior/physiology ; *Mouth/microbiology ; Child ; *Diet ; Oral Health ; Dysbiosis ; Child, Preschool ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The oral microbiome plays a central role in maintaining oral health from early life, with childhood representing a critical period for its establishment and long-term stability. While many environmental factors influence this dynamic microbial ecosystem, diet is distinct in being both universal and highly modifiable. This systematic review aims to evaluate and synthesize current evidence regarding the impact and mechanisms of distinct dietary habits, food matrices, and nutritional components on the composition, diversity, and ecological resilience of the pediatric oral microbiome. Methods: A literature review aligned with PRISMA guidelines was conducted via digital searches on PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane databases (January 2015-December 2025). Search strategies combined MeSH terms and keywords targeting "Microbiota", "Mouth", "Child", "Diet", and "Oral health". Results: From 1068 records identified, 16 relevant articles met the inclusion criteria. Dietary habits may influence taxonomic and functional profiles. Frequent consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, sucrose-rich sodas, and sweet treats induces notable dysbiosis and enriches acidogenic/aciduric taxa. Conversely, protective food matrices, including probiotic-fortified dairy products, polyol-based sugar-free chewing gums (xylitol and maltitol), bovine milk, and bioactive-rich agents like green tea, actively suppress cariogenic pathways (specifically Streptococcus mutans) and support commensal, health-associated genera without disrupting overall microbial structures. Conclusions: Diet represents an important modifiable factor shaping the pediatric oral microbiome, capable of either driving dysbiosis or reinforcing symbiosis. Cultivating a microbiome-informed dietary approach early in childhood supports a resilient microbial architecture, offering a non-invasive, public health framework for long-term oral and systemic disease prevention.},
}

Humans
*Microbiota/physiology
*Feeding Behavior/physiology
*Mouth/microbiology
Child
*Diet
Oral Health
Dysbiosis
Child, Preschool

@article {pmid42654515,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, J and Tian, Y and Tian, J and Xie, Q},
title = {Biodeterioration Control of the Longhu Pagoda Stone Heritage, China: Identification of Deteriogens and Evaluation of Biocidal Efficacy.},
journal = {Materials (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {19},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ma19163361},
pmid = {42654515},
issn = {1996-1944},
support = {22372131//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Longhu Pagoda, a national key cultural heritage site located at the southern foot of Hushan Mountain in Liubao, Jinan, Shandong Province, is a masterpiece of Tang-dynasty stone pagoda architecture and a core component of the Shentong Temple heritage complex alongside the Four Gates Pagoda. The pagoda features a distinctive "Tang-dynasty body, Song-dynasty crown" structure: its stone base and main body, carved with intricate high-reliefs of dragons, tigers, heavenly kings, arhats, and apsaras, date back to the late Tang Dynasty (717-845 AD), while the brick eaves and roof were reconstructed during the Northern Song Dynasty. Severely threatened by biodeterioration induced by bryophytes, lichens, and associated microorganisms, the pagoda's exquisitely carved stone surface has undergone irreversible aesthetic degradation and structural weakening, threatening its thousand-year-old artistic integrity. Biocide treatment is a commonly adopted strategy for stone heritage conservation. This study aims to characterize the specific biodeteriogens colonizing Longhu Pagoda and evaluate the efficacy of various biocides for targeted conservation intervention. In this study, biological samples collected from Longhu Pagoda were first identified: bryophyte samples contained chloroplasts, with some having morphological characteristics similar to Pottiaceae or Grimmiaceae; symbiotic algae isolated from lichen samples were identified as Chlorella sp.; four dominant fungal strains were isolated via morphological observation and molecular sequencing (ITS), namely Aspergillus niger (F1), Trichoderma yunnanense (F2), Talaromyces ruber (F3), and Aspergillus aflatoxiformans (F4). On this basis, the inhibitory effects of different biocides on dominant deteriorating organisms were systematically evaluated via chlorophyll fluorescence analysis, algal growth inhibition tests, and oxford cup assays, combined with field verification on Longhu Pagoda. The optimal biocide with stable inhibition efficacy and favorable stone compatibility was screened out. The results provide technical support for the biological conservation of Longhu Pagoda and similar stone cultural relics suffering from microbial biodeterioration.},
}

@article {pmid42654921,
year = {2026},
author = {Youne Oumnia, A and Mounia, AY and Kaoutar, O and Said, R and Mohammed, B and Kaddouri, H and Najib, AM and Bacem, M and Abdessamad, T and Hanane, D and Nazameen, H and Khan, Y and Lahcen, O},
title = {Mycorrhizal Fungal Inoculation Reshapes Chemotype, Nutritional Status, and Metabolic Signatures to Enhance Bioactivity in Origanum compactum Benth.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15162518},
pmid = {42654921},
issn = {2223-7747},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) establish a reciprocal interaction with plant roots, enhancing nutrient acquisition, stress tolerance, and the production of bioactive metabolites. These symbiotic fungi represent a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers to improve the quality and yield of medicinal and aromatic plants such as Oregano (Origanum compactum). In this study, we investigated the effects of mycorrhizal inoculation on the chemical composition, nutritional profile, and biological activities of Oregano cultivated under greenhouse conditions. Compared with non-mycorrhizal plants, mycorrhizal-inoculated plants showed approximately 33% higher protein content and 28% higher total sugar content, while lipid concentration decreased slightly by about 7%. Mycorrhizal inoculation also promoted the accumulation of secondary metabolites, resulting in increased concentrations of total polyphenol and flavonoid contents by approximately 33% and 25%, respectively. These compositional changes were associated with markedly enhanced antioxidant capacity, exceeding that of the reference antioxidant, as well as improved antibacterial activity, characterized by larger inhibition zones and lower minimum inhibitory concentrations against tested pathogens. Overall, mycorrhizal fungal inoculation reshaped the chemical composition and the major bioactive compounds of Oregano, thereby enhancing its nutritional and antimicrobial potential. These findings highlight the potential of AMF-based cultivation strategies to improve the phytochemical quality and medicinal potential of Oregano while supporting sustainable agricultural production.},
}

@article {pmid42654956,
year = {2026},
author = {Ali, I and Xu, X},
title = {Root Transporters Shape Rhizosphere Microbiomes to Enhance Nitrogen Acquisition Efficiency in Plants.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14081609},
pmid = {42654956},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {Y20250055//Foreign Expert Project/ ; 32471644//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023LFR052//Talent Startup Program of Zhejiang A&F University Research and Development Fund/ ; },
abstract = {Root nitrogen acquisition is a central belowground process that determines how efficiently plants capture nitrogen from the rhizosphere and influences fertilizer demand and environmental nitrogen losses. Root N transporters, including nitrate, ammonium, amino acid, and peptide transporters, provide the molecular basis for inorganic and organic N uptake. However, root N acquisition is not determined solely by plant transport systems but is also shaped by rhizosphere microbial communities that regulate N mobilization, transformation, and availability. In addition to bacteria and archaea, saprotrophic fungi and mycorrhizal associations contribute to organic matter decomposition, N mineralization, and symbiotic N transfer. Mechanistically, transporter activity may alter rhizosphere N gradients and substrate availability, while root exudates and microbial metabolites can influence microbial recruitment, root physiology, and transporter expression. Evidence from rice NRT1.1B and OsLHT1 suggests that specific N transporter genes can influence rhizosphere microbiome assembly, although direct genetic evidence remains limited to a small number of transporter systems and crop contexts. This review synthesizes current knowledge on root N transporter diversity, rhizosphere microbial N cycling, organic N availability, and transporter-microbiome feedbacks in root-level N acquisition. By integrating plant physiology, soil microbiology, and rhizosphere ecology, this review proposes a conceptual framework in which root N transporters and microbial communities act as interconnected components of belowground N acquisition. Future integration of transporter-informed breeding, microbiome management, and fertilization strategies may improve root N capture while reducing reliance on synthetic N inputs.},
}

@article {pmid42654973,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, Y and Zhong, Y and Li, S and Tu, Y and Liu, X and Wang, S},
title = {Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the WRKY Gene Family in Eucalyptus grandis Under Drought Stress During Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14081626},
pmid = {42654973},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2023JJB130365, 2024JJA130119、grant no. 3240140516//Guangxi University/ ; },
abstract = {Eucalyptus is an important timber species characterized by strong adaptability and rapid growth. However, adverse environmental conditions such as drought stress severely impact its growth and productivity. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi form beneficial symbiotic relationships with Eucalyptus root systems and significantly enhance plant stress tolerance. In this study, we identified 111 WRKY genes in Eucalyptus grandis and systematically characterized their physicochemical properties, phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, conserved motifs, synteny, and cis-acting elements. Notably, AM fungal symbiosis significantly enhanced the biomass, plant height, and root length of E. grandis seedlings under drought stress. Through integrated RNA-seq and qRT-PCR analyses, we identified 12 EgWRKY genes that responded to drought stress during AM fungal symbiosis, with their expression levels significantly elevated in AM-inoculated roots under drought conditions. These findings provide novel insights into the regulatory roles of EgWRKY genes in AM-mediated drought tolerance and establish a foundation for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying WRKY-mediated stress responses in E. grandis.},
}

@article {pmid42654995,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, E and Zhang, Y and Yue, R and Wang, Y and Ma, X and Zhang, G and Jin, L},
title = {Plant-Microbiome Interactions in Medicinal Plants: A Synergistic Partnership for Biomass Production and Secondary Metabolite Accumulation.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14081650},
pmid = {42654995},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {GSRAS-06//Gansu University Of Chinese Medicine/ ; CARS-21//Gansu University Of Chinese Medicine/ ; 2025A-116//Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; 25JRRA1171//Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; Northwest China-Tibet Medicine Collaborative Innovation Center (2026)//Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; 2025KJZC00005//Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources/ ; },
abstract = {Medicinal plants are important sources of secondary metabolites (SMs), but their production is constrained by resource shortages, low cultivation efficiency, and continuous cropping obstacles. As the "second genome" of host plants, the plant microbiome is deeply involved in plant growth and development, stress adaptation, and the accumulation of bioactive compounds, providing new pathways for the sustainable utilization of traditional Chinese medicine resources. This review summarizes the mechanisms by which the plant microbiome regulates biomass formation and SM accumulation in medicinal plants. Microorganisms can promote plant nutrient acquisition, enhance resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and regulate root architecture and hormonal signaling. Meanwhile, microorganisms can also participate in the remodeling of secondary metabolic networks in medicinal plants through elicitor- and effector protein-mediated signal transduction, regulation of metabolic gene expression, redistribution of photosynthetic carbon sources and metabolic precursors, and their own biosynthetic capacities. From the perspective of co-evolution, plants and their microbiomes constitute symbiotic systems formed through long-term interactions. Plants can selectively recruit specific microbial taxa through root exudates, SMs, and signaling molecules, whereas microorganisms influence plant adaptability and medicinal material quality through colonization, metabolic feedback, and horizontal gene transfer. This review proposes that a synergistic regulatory pattern of "close phylogenetic relatedness-similar secretions-similar microbial communities" may exist between medicinal plants and microorganisms. This pattern suggests that closely related medicinal plants may share similar core microbial taxa, which may help reveal the intrinsic mechanisms underlying specific microbial recruitment and the quality formation of geo-authentic medicinal materials. Furthermore, the design of synthetic microbial communities (SynComs) can be achieved based on the identification of shared functional genes and the screening of indigenous core functional strains.},
}

@article {pmid42655011,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, J and Xia, Y and Xu, Y and Han, G and Li, C and Liu, Q and Huang, L and Lin, M and Zhang, N and Lu, Y and Xu, J},
title = {Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Root Endophyte Serendipita indica-Mediated Growth Promotion in Wheat Is Associated with Enhanced Photosynthesis.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14081665},
pmid = {42655011},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {CX (24)3111//Jiangsu Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Fund/ ; YZLYJFJH2023YXBS103//Yangzhou "Lvyangjinfeng" PhD Talent Support Program/ ; SJZY202604//Jiangsu Agricultural Germplasm Resources Conservation and Utilization Project/ ; },
abstract = {Serendipita indica (S. indica), a root endophytic fungus of the Sebacinaceae family, promotes growth and increases biomass accumulation in a wide range of plant species. However, the mechanism underlying S. indica-mediated growth promotion in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), particularly its effects on chlorophyll accumulation, remains poorly understood. In this study, colonization by S. indica significantly enhanced shoot growth, biomass accumulation, plant height, fresh weight, dry weight and chlorophyll content in wheat seedlings. Transcriptome analysis revealed extensive transcriptional reprogramming in leaves, characterized by the upregulation of genes involved in chlorophyll biosynthesis and the downregulation of senescence-associated genes. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis indicated that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were predominantly associated with light-regulated developmental processes, whereas Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis identified significant enrichment in carotenoid biosynthesis and porphyrin metabolism pathways. These transcriptomic results were further validated by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), which confirmed the induction of chlorophyll biosynthesis-related genes and the repression of senescence-associated genes following S. indica colonization. Collectively, our results indicate that S. indica establishes a beneficial association with wheat and promotes chlorophyll accumulation through coordinated regulation of chlorophyll biosynthesis and leaf senescence, which may contribute to enhanced photosynthetic capacity and improved plant growth during the seedling stage.},
}

@article {pmid42655087,
year = {2026},
author = {Uchida, N and Kodama, Y},
title = {Effects of Ammonium Chloride-Mediated Control of Digestive Vacuole Acidification on Endosymbiosis Between Paramecium tritobursaria and Chlorella variabilis.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14081742},
pmid = {42655087},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B) (grant number 23H02529)//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; The SDGs Research Project//Shimane University/ ; },
abstract = {Paramecium tritobursaria is a ciliate that harbors intracellular Chlorella sp. symbionts and serves as a model organism for studying endosymbiosis. After ingestion by P. tritobursaria, some algal cells are digested within digestive vacuoles (DVs), whereas others escape digestion and become enclosed by a perialgal vacuole (PV) membrane, establishing a stable symbiosis. We investigated whether inhibiting DV acidification with ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) modulates algal digestion and the establishment of endosymbiosis. Congo red-stained yeast assays showed that treatment with 20 mM NH4Cl for 40 min effectively suppressed DV acidification. Under these conditions, algal intracellular behavior was altered; escape from DVs appeared to be delayed, particularly at 6 h after uptake, and many cells remained within the DVs. Despite this delay, symbiosis was established at 24 h in both groups. Notably, NH4Cl treatment significantly increased the symbiosis establishment rate, with an average 1.5-fold increase and up to a 3-fold increase compared with the control. These results demonstrate that transient inhibition of DV acidification alters digestion dynamics and promotes the establishment of symbiosis. This study provides a novel strategy for dissecting P. tritobursaria-Chlorella sp. endosymbiosis through controlled modulation of DV maturation.},
}

@article {pmid42655111,
year = {2026},
author = {Escalona-Acuña, MI and Dzul-Beh, Á and Tapia, S and Cortés Peña, P and Brito, I and Bórquez, J and Molina Salinas, GM and Orrego, PR},
title = {Chrysothrix sp., a Lichen from Paposo Fog Oasis: Antibacterial Potential to Combat Multidrug-Resistant ESKAPE-E Pathogens.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14081766},
pmid = {42655111},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {Special Topics Research Fund FTE22-004//Universidad de Antofagasta/ ; },
abstract = {Lichens are mutualistic symbiosis between a fungus (mycobiont) and an alga or cyanobacteria (photobiont), forming metabolically versatile holobionts capable of producing diverse secondary metabolites that facilitate their survival in extreme environments. Chrysothrix species, commonly known as "gold dust lichens," are characterized by their vivid yellow thalli and their production of pulvinic acid derivatives, although their bioactive potential remains poorly explored. In this study, using organic chemistry techniques, we characterized the methanolic extract of Chrysothrix sp.-collected from the Paposo Fog Oasis in northern Chile, a unique coastal ecosystem sustained by persistent fog ("camanchacas") within the Atacama Desert-and identified calycin as its major secondary metabolite through chromatographic purification and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Antibacterial assays revealed that both the crude methanolic extract and purified calycin exhibited selective inhibitory activity against multidrug-resistant Gram-positive ESKAPE-E pathogens. Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) ranged from 125 to 500 μg/mL, with the strongest effects observed against Enterococcus faecium (MDR, VRE) and Staphylococcus aureus (MDR, MRSA). No meaningful activity was detected against Gram-negative bacteria, consistent with the known permeability barrier conferred by the outer membrane. This work provides the first evidence of antibacterial activity for calycin isolated from Chrysothrix sp., highlighting the relevance of pulvinic acid derivatives as promising scaffolds for antimicrobial development. These findings highlight the potential of lichen-derived agents and alternative sources of antibacterial agents to address the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42655174,
year = {2026},
author = {Mao, J and Wu, Y and Huang, Y and Li, Y and Mo, M and Fan, Y and Chen, X and Huang, Z},
title = {Mechanisms of 915 MHz Microwave Thermal Treatment on Physicochemical Properties and Microbial Communities in Sugarcane Continuous Cropping Soil.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14081831},
pmid = {42655174},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {Guike AA22117007//Guangxi Science and Technology Major Program/ ; 2025 GXNSFBA069480//Guangxi Natural Science Foundation/ ; 2026 GXNSFBA00640373//Guangxi Natural Science Foundation/ ; 2024 GKLAMMTKFKT002//the Opening Project of Guangxi Key Laboratory of Advanced Microwave Manufacturing Technology/ ; 2025 GXKLAMMT03//the Opening Project of Guangxi Key Laboratory of Advanced Microwave Manufacturing Technology/ ; Guike AA22117005//Guangxi Science and Technology Major Program/ ; },
abstract = {Long-term sugarcane monoculture triggers severe continuous cropping obstacles accompanied by notable soil microecological degradation, including nutrient immobilization, soil acidification, salinization and microbial community imbalance. Physical soil remediation via industrial microwave irradiation represents a promising approach to alleviate soil degradation. Nevertheless, the interactive variations in soil structure, fertility and microbial communities under gradient 915 MHz industrial microwave irradiation remain poorly understood. This study aimed to clarify the correlations among physicochemical properties, microbial structure and functional genes of sugarcane continuous cropping soil under microwave thermal regulation. A continuous 915 MHz microwave device with power gradients (0, 2, 4, 6, 8 kW) and a fixed irradiation duration of 10 min was adopted. Soil samples were incubated for 0, 15 and 30 weeks for comprehensive parameter determination. The results demonstrated that appropriate microwave power exerted positive regulatory effects on soil thermal intensity, aggregate disruption and microbial succession. Soil organic matter (SOM) and pH were key factors modulating the distribution of beneficial and pathogenic microorganisms. The 4 kW treatment disintegrated compact soil aggregates, activated mineral-bound nutrients, relieved soil acidification and salinization, and upregulated genes responsible for nutrient mineralization and antifungal metabolism to sustain high abundances of partial biocontrol fungi. In contrast, high-power treatments (6 kW and 8 kW) induced substantial early-stage SOM loss, reduced soil pH and aggravated salinization in the late incubation stage, thereby inhibiting symbiotic beneficial fungi. Collectively, 4 kW was the optimal microwave parameter in this study to coordinate soil structural, nutritional and microecological balance. This study provides a theoretical basis and technical guidance for the green remediation of soil plagued by sugarcane continuous cropping obstacles.},
}

@article {pmid42655208,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, FC and Yang, YB and Liu, PP and Liu, X and Yin, QJ and Chen, XY and Yu, S},
title = {Hepatincolaceae (Alphaproteobacteria) Symbionts of Snapping Shrimp Alpheus brevicristatus: Genomic Capacity for Functions Beyond Nutrient Scavenging.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14081864},
pmid = {42655208},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2023FY100804//Science & Technology Fundamental Resources Investigation Program/ ; 2024GXNSFBA010359//Guangxi Natural Science Foundation/ ; GUIKE AD2401006//Guangxi Science and Technology Base & Talents Fund/ ; 2023GXNSFAA026466//Guangxi Natural Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Candidatus Hepatincolaceae is a poorly characterized family of obligate Alphaproteobacterial symbionts that are widely detected in ecdysozoans. They were previously assumed to play a nutrient-scavenging role in the gut lumen. In this study, two high-quality metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs, 1.39 Mb and 1.48 Mb in size) were recovered from the gut of the snapping shrimp Alpheus brevicristatus via metagenomic sequencing. Phylogenetic and whole-genome similarity analyses confirm that these two MAGs represent two novel, undescribed genera within the family Ca. Hepatincolaceae. Metabolic reconstruction reveals that they not only retain the canonical nutrient-scavenging pathways conserved across all Hepatincolaceae members, but also encode previously undocumented functional modules for antioxidant defense, vitamin B1 and B2 biosynthesis, and short-chain fatty acid production. They maintain a high oxygen-affinity cytochrome bd terminal oxidase to thrive in the anoxic gut microenvironment. Consistent with their symbiotic lifestyle, their genomes exhibit typical signatures of reductive evolution, such as reduced genome size, low GC content, and gene loss in amino acid and nucleotide de novo biosynthesis pathways. This study presents the first reported high-quality genomes of marine Ca. Hepatincolaceae symbionts, which are predicted to possess multiple metabolic functions extending beyond nutritional mutualism.},
}

@article {pmid42656081,
year = {2026},
author = {Mi, L and Guo, W and Zhang, G and Yin, Y and Mi, Q and Liu, S and Chen, J and Li, F and Tian, W and Qiao, P},
title = {Bacterial Communities Associated With Tuber indicum From the Nujiang River Basin, China.},
journal = {Journal of basic microbiology},
volume = {66},
number = {8},
pages = {e70198},
pmid = {42656081},
issn = {1521-4028},
support = {ZR2020MC001//Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation./ ; 31200248//National Natural Science Foundation of China./ ; 31500016//National Natural Science Foundation of China./ ; },
mesh = {China ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Bacteria/classification/isolation & purification/genetics ; Soil/chemistry ; *Mycorrhizae ; Rivers/microbiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Ascomycota/physiology ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Nitrogen/analysis ; Symbiosis ; Phosphorus/analysis ; Manganese/analysis ; *Microbiota ; },
abstract = {Tuber indicum, an ectomycorrhizal fungus endemic to southwestern China, typically forms brûlés, which underlying microbial and edaphic dynamics remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated bacterial community composition associated with T. indicum ascocarps and soils in- and outside the brûlé at two natural sites (LB and BZL). Soil properties were analyzed to evaluate the correlation between the bacterial community and the soil properties. LB soils show higher pH, calcium, organic matter, total nitrogen, and available phosphorus, whereas BZL soils were enriched in iron and manganese. These factors significantly shaped the microbial communities, as shown by canonical correspondence analysis. Proteobacteria dominated all samples and positively correlated with organic matter, manganese, and pH, indicating potential roles in brûlé formation. Verrucomicrobia showed positive correlations with potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Site-specific enrichment patterns suggested that soil mineral composition exerts selective pressure on microbial assembly. Notably, Bradyrhizobium elkanii and other beneficial taxa such as Bacillus, Ensifer, and Pseudomonas were differentially distributed in ascocarps and adjacent soils, implying their potential involvement in truffle symbiosis and fruiting body development. This study elucidates the interactions between soil physicochemical properties and microbial communities, offering novel ecological insights into the mechanisms underlying T. indicum fruiting body formation.},
}

China
*Soil Microbiology
*Bacteria/classification/isolation & purification/genetics
Soil/chemistry
*Mycorrhizae
Rivers/microbiology
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Ascomycota/physiology
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
Nitrogen/analysis
Symbiosis
Phosphorus/analysis
Manganese/analysis
*Microbiota

@article {pmid42656605,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Y and Du, L and Jiang, J and Tong, X and Xu, J and Wang, J and Lai, X},
title = {A novel batch effect correction framework for robust integration of high-variance data via a global-information virtual reference batch.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1877381},
pmid = {42656605},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The integration of multi-batch high-variance datasets is increasingly important in studies of complex biological systems. In application domains such as microbial symbiosis, host-microbe interactions, and ecosystem robustness, this places a stringent demand on batch correction methods which must reduce technical batch effects while preserving the biologically meaningful cross-sample structure required for downstream interpretation. Here, we present GIR-Combat, a novel batch correction framework that constructs a global-information virtual reference batch from shared cross-batch structure, thereby enabling more consistent and objective correction across datasets. GIR-Combat identifies mutually nearest neighbors across batches, leverages their shared information to define a virtual reference, and incorporates this reference into a linear modeling framework for correction. By transforming reference-batch specification from a subjective choice into a modeling step, GIR-Combat provides a more objective and robust solution for correcting high-variance and compositionally imbalanced datasets in which conventional methods frequently underperform. We evaluated GIR-Combat on simulated datasets and multiple public benchmark datasets. The results show that GIR-Combat improves batch correction performance relative to existing methods, achieving better batch correction while preserving biologically meaningful structure. Quantitative and visual evaluation metrics further demonstrate its robustness and scalability in challenging integration scenarios. Overall, GIR-Combat provides a practical and methodologically grounded framework for high-variance multi-batch data integration, with potential value in applications where reliable integrated representations are required for interpreting complex biological interactions.},
}

@article {pmid42657304,
year = {2026},
author = {Sofue, A and Takeda, N and Shigeto, S},
title = {Ultrabroadband Multiplex CARS Imaging Reveals Distinct Protein- and Lipid-Rich Domains in Arbuscules.},
journal = {Chemical & biomedical imaging},
volume = {4},
number = {8},
pages = {1794-1804},
pmid = {42657304},
issn = {2832-3637},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi form mutualistic symbioses with a wide range of terrestrial plants, in which they exchange inorganic nutrients taken up from the soil for plant-derived photosynthates such as sugars and lipids. This nutrient exchange occurs exclusively at arbuscules(?)highly branched hyphal structures that develop in the plant root cortex. Although the molecular mechanisms underlying arbuscule development and function have been extensively studied using targeted approaches based on transgenic plants and fluorescence microscopy, directly visualizing the various molecular components crucial for arbuscule function using nontargeted approaches remains a major challenge. Here, we demonstrate that ultrabroadband multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microspectroscopy enables two- and three-dimensional imaging of arbuscule-containing regions in plant roots. Using genetically transformed Lotus japonicus roots colonized by the AM fungus Rhizophagus irregularis, we identify Raman spectroscopic signatures of arbuscules indicative of protein-rich domains. These domains are associated with periarbuscular membrane-embedded transporters that are involved in AM nutrient exchange, including phosphate transporters, as well as other proteins present in fungal and plant cells adjacent to the arbuscules. Additionally, we detect adjacent lipid-rich regions corresponding to arbuscule trunks that mainly contain unsaturated triacylglycerols transferred from the host plant. Our findings highlight the potential of ultrabroadband multiplex CARS imaging as a label-free, in situ imaging tool for studying arbuscules, providing deeper chemical insights into AM symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid42642068,
year = {2026},
author = {Rosić, I and Nikolić, I},
title = {Challenges and opportunities in type III secretion system effector prediction.},
journal = {Open biology},
volume = {16},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1098/rsob.250485},
pmid = {42642068},
issn = {2046-2441},
support = {451-03-136/2025-03/200178//Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovations of the Republic of Serbia/ ; 451-03-137/2025-03/200178//Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovations of the Republic of Serbia/ ; CRP/SRB23-04_EC//International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology/ ; },
mesh = {*Type III Secretion Systems/metabolism/genetics ; *Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry ; *Computational Biology/methods ; *Gram-Negative Bacteria/metabolism/genetics ; Prediction Algorithms ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Type III secretion system effectors (T3SEs) are small bacterial proteins with big biological roles. They act as central molecular mediators of interactions between Gram-negative bacteria and eukaryotic hosts, spanning pathogenic, symbiotic and environmental contexts. Over the past three decades, T3SE discovery has progressed from genome-independent experimental assays to an expanding landscape of computational prediction methods. Early in silico approaches formalized empirically defined protein N-terminal properties into feature-engineered machine-learning models, followed by deep-learning methods that learn sequence patterns directly from amino acid sequences. More recent pipelines integrate multiple layers of information, including homology, regulatory elements, genomic context, pan-genomic context and protein language model embeddings, primarily to prioritize candidate novel effectors. Despite these advances, several challenges remain. Training data and available databases remain biased towards a limited set of well-known plant and animal pathogens; many tools are no longer maintained, and the extent to which current predictors generalize to non-pathogenic, symbiotic, environmental and host-unknown bacteria remains unclear. Here, we review the conceptual evolution of T3SE prediction, highlight persistent limitations and sources of bias, and outline open questions that must be addressed to enable robust, interpretable and ecologically inclusive prediction of T3SEs, pointing towards the need for centralized, user-friendly platforms that integrate diverse biological signals into transparent, ranked outputs suitable for experimental validation.},
}

*Type III Secretion Systems/metabolism/genetics
*Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry
*Computational Biology/methods
*Gram-Negative Bacteria/metabolism/genetics
Prediction Algorithms
Animals

@article {pmid42643606,
year = {2026},
author = {Kadnikov, VV and Mardanov, AV and Beletsky, AV and Ravin, NV},
title = {Metagenomic insights into microbial communities of terrestrial mud volcanos: functional diversity of subsurface archaea and bacteria.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1892847},
pmid = {42643606},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Terrestrial mud volcanoes are surface geological features where fluidized sediments and gasses from the subsurface are discharged along a fracture network providing a window into the deep biosphere. Although mud volcanoes constitute an important source of methane emission from natural environments, their microbial communities responsible for methane cycling remain poorly characterized. Using a metagenomics approach, we investigated the taxonomic composition and metabolic potential of microbial communities in three active mud volcanoes in the Kerch-Taman mud volcanic province. Despite the volcanoes' close proximity their microbial communities strongly differ. In the Kmv1 and Kmv2 volcanoes surface horizons mostly harbored organotrophic microbial communities, while the relative abundance of anaerobic methanotrophic archaea (ANME) increased with depth. The deep horizons (1.5 m) of Kmv1 were dominated by Ca. Methanoperedenaceae that lacked nitrate reductase and could couple methane oxidation to the reduction of metal oxides, while the abundance of sulfate-reducing bacteria was low. Consistently, with higher sulfate content, the deep horizon in Kmv2 was dominated by Ca. Methanoperedenaceae, ANME-2a/2b clade, sulfate-reducing Desulfobacterota and sulfur-oxidizing Gammaproteobacteria. No clear depth distribution of taxa was observed in the Kmv3 volcano where microorganisms of the methane and sulfur cycles, namely, methanogens, ANME-3 clade, methanotrophic bacteria, and sulfate reducers were simultaneously detected. A high-quality genome of a member of the archaeal candidate phylum EX4484-52 within the DPANN lineage was assembled from metagenomes. This archaeon, named Candidatus Lutivulcanarchaeum fermentans, has complete glycolytic pathway and ATP generation mechanisms, but lacked the biosynthetic pathways for many key cellular compounds, indicating a parasitic or symbiotic lifestyle.},
}

@article {pmid42644422,
year = {2026},
author = {Georgieva, S and Salloum, PM and Buysse, M},
title = {Beyond Symbiosis: The Mind-Bending Role of Microbiomes in Host-Parasite Interactions.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {35},
number = {16},
pages = {e70531},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70531},
pmid = {42644422},
issn = {1365-294X},
}

@article {pmid42644597,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, S and Zheng, K and Su, Y and Liang, Y and Wu, M and Yu, H and Sun, J and Wang, W and Martin, A and Kennedy, F and Ryan, K and Gao, C and McMinn, A and Wang, M},
title = {Diversity of Antarctic sea ice and under-ice seawater RNA viruses.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0147226},
doi = {10.1128/aem.01472-26},
pmid = {42644597},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Sea ice is vital to polar ecosystems and serves as a natural laboratory for studying microbial adaptations in extreme environments. Nevertheless, the diversity and ecology of Antarctic marine RNA viruses have not been sufficiently explored. Here, 11 metatranscriptomes from Antarctic sea ice and ice-associated environments were analyzed to characterize RNA viral communities and their ecological differentiation between sea ice and seawater. Diverse RNA viral lineages were identified, of which Cryppavirales and Picornavirales were dominant. Lenarviricota was predominant in sea ice, highlighting the differential distribution between the two ecosystems. Evolutionary analyses showed lower Ka/Ks values in sea ice-associated RNA viruses, suggesting stronger purifying constraints and a more conserved evolutionary pattern compared with under-ice seawater. More than half of the viral operational taxonomic units (vOTUs) could be assigned to hosts, primarily fungi and algae, suggesting a potential role for viruses in fungal-algal symbiotic/parasitic systems. This study provides new insights into the diversity and distinctiveness of RNA viruses in Antarctic sea ice-seawater systems.

IMPORTANCE: Polar sea ice is a vital component of Antarctic ecosystems and plays an important role in climate regulation, yet the diversity and ecological roles of its viral communities remain largely unknown. This study documents the diversity and complexity of RNA viruses in Antarctic sea ice-seawater systems. The potential host lineages of RNA viruses in Antarctic sea ice were explored, shedding light on the cryptic RNA viral communities in these extreme environments. These findings provide important insights into the diversity and ecology of RNA viruses in these habitats, enhancing the understanding of polar viral ecology.},
}

@article {pmid42646070,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, H and Jiao, X and Wang, Y and Sun, N},
title = {Co-Application of Organic and Ca, Mg, Zn Fertilizers Reshapes Depth-Stratified Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Communities in Orchard Soil.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jof12080543},
pmid = {42646070},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {KJCX20250926//Beijing Academy of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences/ ; Z191100004019001//Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission/ ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are crucial symbiotic microorganisms in terrestrial ecosystems, playing a vital role in maintaining orchard soil health and productivity. However, how organic-and Ca, Mg, Zn fertilizers co-application affect vertical stratification and ecological functions of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in perennial fruit orchards remains unclear. Based on a five-year in situ peach trial, we established three fertilization regimes: low- (LWF), medium- (MWF), and high-input (HWF) regimes. We systematically analyzed the AMF community structure, diversity, and their correlations with soil physicochemical properties, as well as peach tree physiology, fruit yield, and quality across two soil depths: 0-20 cm (topsoil) and 20-40 cm (subsoil). HWF significantly inhibited AMF root colonization rates and spore density (p < 0.05), while reducing community α-diversity AMF α-diversity (p < 0.05), characterized by the enrichment of genera such as Glomus and a decrease in the relative abundance of Rhizoglomus. Redundancy analysis (RDA) identified available Zn (AZn) and Mg (WMg) as key drivers of this restructuring. Integrating RDA results into depth-specific partial least squares structural equation models (PLS-SEM), we found that subsoil AZn/WMg indirectly boosted yield by reshaping AMF composition (β = 0.34, p = 0.006), mediated via improved canopy status (NDVI, PRI). Total effect analysis confirmed the dominant role of subsoil pathways. These findings challenge the prevailing topsoil-centric view of soil microbial ecology and underscore the importance of considering the full soil profile when evaluating the impacts of agricultural practices on beneficial symbionts. We conclude that sustainable management strategies should account for depth-dependent AMF responses to maintain both productivity and belowground biodiversity across the entire rooting zone.},
}

@article {pmid42646141,
year = {2026},
author = {Xie, T and Shen, K and Xia, W and Tan, W and Xie, C and Zhang, Z and Shi, Z and Wei, X},
title = {Research Advances in Gastrodia elata Endophytes: Diversity, Secondary Metabolites and Pharmacological Activities.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42646141},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {202401AU070075, 202401AU070076, 202301AU070036//Yunnan Province Science and Technology Department/ ; 202401BA070001-124, 202501BA070001-101//Association of Local Colleges and Universities/ ; TMKF2024B13//Yunnan Key Laboratory of Gastrodia Elata and Fungal Symbiotic Biology/ ; },
abstract = {Gastrodia elata, a medicinal and edible plant of the Orchidaceae family, has a long history of medicinal application and extensive development value in China. Endophytes permanently colonize G. elata and form a stable long-term symbiotic relationship with the host. The secondary metabolites produced by these fungi possess diverse structures and multiple biological activities, which are important sources for discovering novel bioactive ingredients that provide natural materials for screening and developing medicinal compounds. This article reviewed the research and development progress of endophytes associated with G. elata, including endophytes' sources, biological functions, compound classification and pharmacological activities. The results showed that more than 296 secondary metabolites were reported-mainly terpenoids, polyketides, alkaloids, anthraquinones, phenolics-with prominently characterized antifeedant and antibacterial activities. Our work aims to provide scientific references for the in-depth exploration and efficient utilization of G. elata endophytic fungal resources.},
}

@article {pmid42637426,
year = {2026},
author = {Morales, D and Lavado, L and Martinez, P and Escudero, A and Ontañón, I and Tejedor-Calvo, E},
title = {Exploring the functional, aromatic and metabolomic profile of kombucha beverages based on edible mushrooms.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {242},
number = {Pt 4},
pages = {120093},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120093},
pmid = {42637426},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {Fermentation ; *Metabolomics/methods ; *Agaricales/metabolism ; Volatile Organic Compounds/analysis ; *Kombucha Tea/analysis/microbiology ; Phenols/analysis ; *Odorants/analysis ; *Fermented Beverages/analysis ; },
abstract = {Kombucha is a fermented beverage traditionally produced with tea leaves and sugar, but the use of alternative substrates has gained increasing attention due to their potential to enhance nutritional and sensory properties. In this study, commonly consumed and commercially available edible mushrooms in Europe-Agaricus bisporus, Pleurotus ostreatus, Pleurotus eryngii, Lactarius deliciosus, Cantharellus cibarius, and Boletus edulis-were employed as substrates for kombucha fermentation using three different SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeasts) consortia. Fermentations were monitored for 21 days, assessing pH, total soluble solids, ethanol, soluble proteins, and total phenolic compounds. Across all mushroom substrates, sugar depletion and acidification occurred, while protein and phenolic contents varied depending on mushroom type and SCOBY used. Agaricus bisporus based kombucha showed the most distinctive aromatic profile. The analysis of major volatile compounds indicated that differences were mainly associated with the SCOBY used rather than with the fermentation matrix. Preliminary metabolomics analyses highlighted substrate-driven differences in fermentation outcomes. Overall, mushroom kombuchas demonstrated low residual sugar, enhanced protein levels, and complex aroma profiles, supporting their potential as novel functional beverages.},
}

Fermentation
*Metabolomics/methods
*Agaricales/metabolism
Volatile Organic Compounds/analysis
*Kombucha Tea/analysis/microbiology
Phenols/analysis
*Odorants/analysis
*Fermented Beverages/analysis

@article {pmid42637735,
year = {2026},
author = {Shi, J and Abdel-Ghany, S and Abdel-Fattah, M and Hu, X and Wadan, AS and Sabit, H},
title = {Cancer-associated adipocytes: metabolic reprogramming, crosstalk and therapeutic implications in tumor progression.},
journal = {Signal transduction and targeted therapy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42637735},
issn = {2059-3635},
mesh = {Humans ; Metabolic Reprogramming ; *Adipocytes/pathology/metabolism ; *Tumor Microenvironment/genetics ; *Neoplasms/pathology/metabolism/genetics/therapy ; Animals ; Disease Progression ; },
abstract = {Adipose tissue, once considered a passive fuel store, is now recognized as a dynamic endocrine organ that shapes cancer behavior. Within the tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer-associated adipocytes (CAAs) undergo marked reprogramming-losing large lipid droplets, adopting fibroblast-like features, and intensifying lipolysis-while releasing proinflammatory mediators that accelerate proliferation, invasion, and therapy resistance. This interaction is bidirectional: through cytokines, adipokines, and extracellular vesicles (including exosomal microRNAs), CAAs coordinate immune recruitment, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, and angiogenesis. Mechanistically, several pathways converge at this interface. YAP/TAZ, STAT3, and PI3K/AKT integrate mechanical stress, inflammatory tone, and nutrient cues; metabolic symbiosis-enhanced fatty acid oxidation alongside glycolytic rewiring-supplies energy and redox support. CAAs also amplify metastasis and chemoresistance, particularly in triple-negative breast (TNBC) and pancreatic cancers, via effectors such as CXCL8, FAM3C, and SAA1. Systemic axes also matter in cancer cachexia, adipocyte-derived lipocalin-2 (LCN2) promotes tissue wasting and dampens thermogenesis, while obesity's chronic inflammation further biases the TME toward tumor promotion. This review synthesizes how CAAs and adipose dynamics drive oncogenesis, progression and therapeutic failure and highlights actionable nodes within the adipose-tumor axis for precision oncology.},
}

Humans
Metabolic Reprogramming
*Adipocytes/pathology/metabolism
*Tumor Microenvironment/genetics
*Neoplasms/pathology/metabolism/genetics/therapy
Animals
Disease Progression

@article {pmid42638205,
year = {2026},
author = {Stefanson, R and Deyalage, S and Senarathna, S and Malalgoda, M},
title = {Sourdough fermentation as a modulator of nutritional quality in cereal-based baked products.},
journal = {Journal of the science of food and agriculture},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jsfa.70919},
pmid = {42638205},
issn = {1097-0010},
support = {//The authors thank the Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission and the Western Grains Research Association for funding support. The authors would also like to acknowledge the University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada - Discovery grant program and the University of Manitoba start-up funds for supporting this work/ ; },
abstract = {Sourdough fermentation, an ancient food bioprocessing technology, has attracted renewed attention for its positive impact on the nutritional profile and sensory attributes of leavened baked products. This process relies on the symbiotic activity between lactic acid bacteria and yeasts, which leads to acidification, proteolysis, enzyme activation, and metabolite synthesis, altering the dough and the final product. Growing consumer demand for healthy foods has prompted researchers and manufacturers to explore sourdough technology for the development of nutritious and functional baked goods with health benefits. This review provides a critical synthesis of current knowledge, with particular emphasis on linking fermentation mechanisms to nutritional outcomes and their relevance in modern food systems. Specifically, the multifaceted influence of sourdough technology on several macronutrients is explored. Previous research indicates that sourdough fermentation can lower the glycemic response, enhance protein digestibility, increase phenolic compounds, and improve mineral bioavailability. Despite these promising effects, the mechanistic basis underlying such nutritional improvements remains underexplored, particularly under controlled and industrial processing conditions. This review highlights key research gaps, including the scalability of sourdough production for nutritious food development and the specific fermentation mechanisms that promote human health. Variability in fermentation practices across artisanal and industrial settings further complicates the reproducibility of these effects. Addressing these gaps through supplemental research is essential both for consumers seeking healthy food options and for the food industry as it aims to innovate and meet market demands. © 2026 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid42638733,
year = {2025},
author = {Cardona, PJ},
title = {Decoding the tuberculosis puzzle: mechanical factors driving disease progression.},
journal = {Frontiers in tuberculosis},
volume = {3},
number = {},
pages = {1570292},
pmid = {42638733},
issn = {2813-7868},
abstract = {It is stated that, following infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), only 5-10% of individuals will develop active tuberculosis (TB), predominantly in the pulmonary form. After excluding major comorbidities that impair immune responses-such as undernourishment, alcohol abuse, smoking, HIV infection, and diabetes-there remains no clear explanation for this progression. Extensive efforts have been made to identify a transcriptomic biosignature in blood to predict disease development, yet none have been successful. This perspective aims to provide insights into this phenomenon. In adults, pulmonary TB exhibits a particular tropism for the upper lobes, primarily due to localized mechanical factors. Reduced mobility exacerbates the neutrophilic inflammatory response fuelling Mtb extracellular growth, while gravitational stress impairs the function of secondary lobular septa, hampering lesion encapsulation. Interestingly, such tropism is absent in children, as these regional differences do not exist. Instead, they develop self-healing, small lesions known as Ghon foci. However, children have a significantly higher likelihood of developing disseminated extrapulmonary TB, a phenomenon that could be named as the pediatric TB paradox. This has traditionally been attributed to an immature immune response, but an alternative explanation may lie in the profound modifications occurring in lung parenchyma and microvascular maturation during the first 2 to 3 years of life. Ultimately, the evolution of Mtb suggests an original symbiotic relationship with humans, which has been disrupted by socio-demographic and cultural factors. These shifts may have transformed Mtb from a natural enhancer of Th1 responses and trained immunity into the leading infectious killer of humankind.},
}

@article {pmid42638963,
year = {2026},
author = {Lange, K and Rottier, C and Davenet, J and Grover, R and Ferrier-Pagès, C},
title = {Energetic and carbon allocation strategies shape coral holobiont responses to combined thermal and nutrient stress.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1909606},
pmid = {42638963},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Climate change and coastal eutrophication increasingly threaten coral reefs, yet their combined impact on coral holobionts remains poorly understood. This study examined the physiological response and carbon budget of two holobionts (Galaxea fascicularis in symbiosis with Cladocopium; Heteroxenia fuscescens in symbiosis with Durusdinium) exposed to nitrate-phosphate enrichment and thermal stress (30 °C). In G. fascicularis, individual stressors severely reduced photosynthate translocation (-90%) due to a significant increase in symbiont respiration, and this species suffered significant bleaching (86% symbiont loss) after the heat-stress phase. Conversely, H. fuscescens was resilient to individual stressors, showing no bleaching and increased carbon translocation under nutrient enrichment or thermal stress alone. Both species exhibited an "energy saving" response following heat stress exposure, significantly increasing lipid and carbohydrate stores. Combined stressors temporarily boosted photosynthetic rates and carbon translocation in G. fascicularis, before a collapse in these parameters after the stress. In contrast, under combined stress H. fuscescens suffered severe bleaching but maintained high rates of carbon translocation to the host and accumulated substantial energy reserves. These findings suggest that different strategies in carbon allocation dictate competitive success under environmental stress: while G. fascicularis prioritizes symbiont maintenance, H. fuscescens maintains or enhances translocation to preserve host metabolism. This study highlights the importance of assessing holobiont carbon budgets and energy reserves to predict coral resilience in a changing ocean.},
}

@article {pmid42639485,
year = {2026},
author = {Kulkova, J and Kulkov, I and Zahlan, A and Rohrbeck, R and Menvielle, L},
title = {From theory to therapy: integrating artificial intelligence for transformative healthcare innovation.},
journal = {Health systems (Basingstoke, England)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {189-206},
pmid = {42639485},
issn = {2047-6965},
abstract = {The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping healthcare by improving diagnostics, patient outcomes, and operational efficiency. Yet, many frameworks for AI adoption overlook the complex and iterative nature of healthcare systems. This study introduces the AI Healthcare Symbiosis Cycle (AI-HSC), a novel framework based on Dynamic Capabilities Theory, Systems Theory, and Kotter's 8-Step Change Model, conceptualising AI adoption as a continuous and adaptive process. Dynamic Capabilities Theory highlights the need for organisations to sense opportunities, seize resources, and change processes in response to AI advancements. Systems Theory focuses on optimising interdependencies within healthcare organisations, while Kotter's model ensures a structured approach to managing change. The AI-HSC aligns phases of AI integration - initiation, integration, evolution, and revolution - with Kotter's steps, promoting a systematic and scalable adoption strategy. Key recommendations include implementing pilot programs, fostering interdisciplinary coalitions, embedding AI literacy into organisational culture, and developing robust ethics and compliance frameworks. By bridging theory with practice, the AI-HSC provides actionable strategies for sustainable AI integration, addressing critical barriers and fostering continuous innovation. This research contributes to the digital change discourse, offering valuable insights for academia and healthcare practitioners.},
}

@article {pmid42639815,
year = {2026},
author = {Ma, Z and Li, W and Guo, Q and Tibesigwa, DG and Meng, Q and Wang, F},
title = {Strigolactones: From Fundamental Biology to Applications in Tree Breeding.},
journal = {Physiologia plantarum},
volume = {178},
number = {5},
pages = {e71064},
doi = {10.1111/ppl.71064},
pmid = {42639815},
issn = {1399-3054},
support = {2022YFD2200303//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Lactones/metabolism ; *Trees/metabolism/genetics/physiology ; *Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism ; *Plant Breeding ; Signal Transduction ; },
abstract = {Strigolactones (SLs) are small carotenoid-derived signaling molecules that serve as both rhizosphere chemical cues and well-recognized endogenous plant hormones. They are involved in shoot branching inhibition, root system remodeling, mycorrhizal symbiosis, and diverse stress responses in plants. This paper systematically reviews the biosynthesis and metabolism of SLs, the perception and signaling mechanisms, their translocation and long-distance transport in planta, as well as how SLs modulate key traits of forest trees via crosstalk with other hormones, including auxin, cytokinin, abscisic acid, etc. Based on current technical platforms such as tissue resolved liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), isotope labeling, tissue specific clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and inducible expression systems, grafting assays, and semifield long-term monitoring, this study proposes a research and breeding roadmap progressing from molecular validation to medium- and short-term characterization in model trees and finally to multisite long-term ecological assessment. It also provides recommendations covering risks, benefits, and regulations concerning the use of chemical analogs, gene editing, and grafting strategies in forest cultivation. This review presents a multiscale theoretical framework and testable pathways for translating SLs research from model plants to forestry applications.},
}

*Lactones/metabolism
*Trees/metabolism/genetics/physiology
*Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism
*Plant Breeding
Signal Transduction

@article {pmid42640151,
year = {2026},
author = {Jia, S and Wen, J and Li, J and Feng, M and He, Y and Liu, R and Liu, Q and Zhang, J and Cheng, K and Zhang, X and Zhang, X},
title = {The Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase GhNTF3 Modulates the Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis-Immunity Trade-Off in Cotton by Regulating Salicylic Acid Biosynthesis.},
journal = {Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e77315},
doi = {10.1002/advs.77315},
pmid = {42640151},
issn = {2198-3844},
support = {U25A20661//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32301768//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Plant immunity is essential for survival against pathogen invasion. However, enhanced immune activation can restrict arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal colonization. Therefore, plants must finely balance immunity and symbiosis to optimize fitness, but the key regulators underlying this trade-off remain unclear. Here, we identify a novel mitogen-activated protein kinase, GhNTF3, as a central regulator of the AM symbiosis-immunity balance. Knockdown of GhNTF3 promotes AM symbiosis but decreases Verticillium wilt resistance in cotton. GhNTF3 overexpression suppresses AM symbiosis. GhNTF3 interacts with GhWAK13, a previously characterized wall-associated kinase that is specifically induced by AM symbiosis, at the plasma membrane. Genetic evidence indicates that GhWAK13 functions in association with GhNTF3 during AM symbiosis. GhWAK13 negatively regulates salicylic acid (SA) accumulation, whereas GhNTF3 positively regulates SA accumulation during AM symbiosis. Knockdown of SA biosynthesis genes or the SA receptor gene GhNPR1 significantly enhanced AM fungal colonization, whereas exogenous SA application strongly inhibited symbiosis. Moreover, GhNTF3 interacts with GhJAZ6 in the nucleus to enhance Verticillium wilt resistance, potentially through SA accumulation in cotton. Collectively, our findings identify a molecular module in which the interplay between GhNTF3 and GhWAK13 dynamically balances AM symbiosis and Verticillium wilt resistance through antagonistic regulation of the SA signaling pathway.},
}

@article {pmid42640803,
year = {2026},
author = {Xiao, H and Liu, J and Zhao, J and Liu, X and Wang, B and Zeng, X and Liu, Z and Li, Y and Dong, J and Cui, M and Liu, X},
title = {A gut symbiotic filamentous fungus reprograms host metabolism and the microbiota to confer radioprotection.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {123},
number = {35},
pages = {e2608386123},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2608386123},
pmid = {42640803},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {32100087//MOST | National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)/ ; 82373524//MOST | National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)/ ; 82574025//MOST | National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis ; Animals ; *Mucor/physiology/metabolism ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; Limosilactobacillus reuteri/metabolism ; },
abstract = {The gut mycobiome is increasingly linked to host physiology, yet functional insights are dominated by yeasts, leaving the roles of filamentous fungi largely unexplored. Here, we identify Mucor racemosus as a gut-resident symbiotic filamentous fungus that establishes intestinal colonization via both hyphal and spore forms. M. racemosus confers radioprotection through an integrated metabolic program coupling direct host support with microbiota-mediated amplification. The fungus produces L-glutamate, L-aspartate, and DL-lysine, which are transferred to the host to enhance DNA damage repair in radiation-exposed intestinal epithelial cells. In parallel, M. racemosus-derived methylthioadenosine remodels the gut bacterial community by enriching Limosilactobacillus reuteri and reprogramming sulfur metabolism to generate radioprotective methionine. This coordinated fungal-bacterial metabolic axis reinforces intestinal radiotolerance. Consistent with this mechanism, dietary administration of M. racemosus-fermented cheese confers radioprotection in vivo. Together, these findings establish gut filamentous fungi as active metabolic organizers of host-microbiota interactions.},
}

*Symbiosis
Animals
*Mucor/physiology/metabolism
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
Limosilactobacillus reuteri/metabolism

@article {pmid42642046,
year = {2026},
author = {Citra, N and Liu, Y and Ishangulyyeva, G and Erbilgin, N},
title = {Pine Monoterpenes Drive Growth, Competition, and Volatile Metabolism of Symbiotic Fungi Associated with the Mountain Pine Beetle.},
journal = {FEMS microbiology letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/femsle/fnag096},
pmid = {42642046},
issn = {1574-6968},
abstract = {Monoterpenes are key conifer defences that shape interactions between the mountain pine beetle and its symbiotic phytopathogenic fungi. Conifer monoterpenes vary both within and between tree species, yet how this variation affects symbiotic fungi remains poorly understood. We tested how monoterpene blends from three geographically distinct subspecies of Pinus contorta, including subsp. contorta, latifolia, and murrayana can affect the growth and volatile emissions of two fungal symbionts, Grosmannia clavigera and Ophiostoma montium, of the mountain pine beetle. We conducted a factorial experiment using monoterpene blends representing the three subspecies in combination with three fungal cultures (two alone and one mixed) to quantify fungal biomass and volatile organic compounds. Monoterpene blends reduced fungal biomass, with the subsp. murrayana blend is the most inhibitory Grosmannia clavigera tolerated monoterpenes better than O. montium, suggesting enhanced virulence. Fungal volatile emissions varied by blend and culture; 2-methyl-1-butanol and isobutanol were positively correlated with growth, whereas verbenone and cis-grandisol were negatively correlated. These findings show that the monoterpene diversity of host trees differentially modulates fungal growth and volatile emission, revealing chemical mechanisms underlying host colonization by the mountain pine beetle across regions.},
}

@article {pmid42632174,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, X and Liu, H and Jia, T and Liu, X and Li, Y and Gu, Y and Xiang, Q and Zhao, K and Zou, L and Ma, M and Zhang, L and Yu, H and Chen, Q and Yu, X},
title = {Rhizobia-mediated soybean rhizosphere and nodule endophytic microorganisms reduce bioavailability of Cd and Cu in soil.},
journal = {Ecotoxicology and environmental safety},
volume = {323},
number = {},
pages = {120704},
doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2026.120704},
pmid = {42632174},
issn = {1090-2414},
abstract = {Low-level bioavailable cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu) in agricultural soils poses a severe threat to soil health and food safety; however, the mechanisms by which indigenous Cu-Cd tolerant rhizobia modulate plant-microbe-soil interactions remain poorly understood. In this field trial, the effects of two Cu-Cd tolerant strains, Sinorhizobium xinjiangense YN5 (RB) and Rhizobium pusense GF4 (RD), when inoculated individually and in combination (RC), were assessed with respect to soybean growth, heavy‑metal partitioning, rhizosphere and nodule endophytic microbiomes, and soil functional genes under bioavailable Cu-Cd stress. RB treatment significantly promoted aboveground growth parameters (plant height, node number, and pod per plant) and biomass accumulation, whereas RC treatment favored root development and maximized the reduction in soybean Cd accumulation. Rhizobia elevated Cu concentrations in leaves, while enhanced root sequestration curtailed Cd translocation to stems and pods, thereby diminishing Cd accumulation across all organs. Soil available nutrients, soil organic matter, and nitrogenase activity were significantly increased, whereas bioavailable Cd and Cu declined. Rhizobia strengthened cooperative interactions within the rhizosphere community, with positive associations accounting for 86.56% of network links under RB. Nodule symbiotic networks exhibited greater modularity and integration, and source tracking analysis revealed that RB markedly increased microbial transfer from the rhizosphere to nodules, reaching 85.2%. Rhizobia activated function associated with carbon and sulfur cycling genes. Collectively, indigenous Cu-Cd tolerant rhizobia mitigate heavy metal stress and strengthen nutrient cycling microbial functions, presenting a promising eco-compatible strategy to enhance legume productivity in agricultural soils facing low-level bioavailable heavy metal exposure.},
}

@article {pmid42634286,
year = {2026},
author = {Qiu, W and Tang, X and Shen, Q and Yuan, J},
title = {Plant-Microbiome Interactions for Rhizosphere Health: A Three-Step Framework for Crop Resilience.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70837},
pmid = {42634286},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {42322708//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {The rhizosphere is a key ecological niche where plants interact with microorganisms, and its health directly affects plant growth, development, and disease resistance. Existing theories have laid an important foundation for understanding plant-microbe interactions. Among them, the biological market theory interprets the mutualistic symbiosis between plants and microorganisms from the perspective of nutrient exchange, offering valuable insights into resource flow and interaction mechanisms within the rhizosphere. On this basis, this study further proposes the conceptual model of 'biological corporation' to integrate interaction mechanisms covering three dimensions: plant-dominated regulation, microbial functional differentiation, and signal network coordination. Within this theoretical framework, plants modulate the screening and colonisation of microbial communities via a dual-genome regulatory system. Microbial populations reshape community structure and drive functional differentiation through resource competition, cross-feeding symbiosis, and defensive strategies. Interkingdom and intrakingdom signal cascades further link the physiological and metabolic processes of plants and microorganisms, thereby facilitating the steady-state maintenance of the rhizosphere microecosystem. Based on this hierarchical symbiotic mechanism, we propose a three-step regulatory scheme for rhizosphere health restoration, and provide practical strategies including crop germplasm improvement, synthetic microbial consortium construction, and cross-kingdom signal engineering to mitigate combined biotic and abiotic stresses in farmland.},
}

@article {pmid42635566,
year = {2026},
author = {Clark, J and Krueger, Q and Carrier, TJ and Moran, Y and Reitzel, AM},
title = {Is a Commensal Here, a Pathogen There? Genotype Specific Responses by the Sea Anemone Nematostella vectensis to Vibrio Species.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {35},
number = {16},
pages = {e70517},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70517},
pmid = {42635566},
issn = {1365-294X},
support = {2044826//National Science Foundation/ ; 2526917//National Science Foundation/ ; 2020669//Israel Binational Science Foundation/ ; //Center for Computational Intelligence to Predict Health and Environmental Risks (UNC Charlotte)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Sea Anemones/microbiology/genetics/immunology ; Genotype ; *Vibrio/pathogenicity/physiology/genetics ; *Symbiosis/genetics ; Host-Pathogen Interactions/genetics ; },
abstract = {Animals rely on diverse molecular mechanisms to maintain beneficial microbial associations while also defending against pathogens, yet the extent to which these responses vary among genotypes of a single species remains poorly understood. Using individuals from different locations of the sea anemone Nematostella vectensis, we compared transcriptional responses to a commensal (Vibrio diabolicus) and pathogen (Vibrio coralliilyticus) bacterium. We find striking genotype-specific divergence: individuals from Nova Scotia mounted a strong transcriptional response to V. diabolicus, whereas the North Carolina and Florida individuals showed almost no response to this same bacterium. In contrast, all individuals regardless of location exhibited a large transcriptional response to the pathogen V. coralliilyticus. These responses involved key immune pathways (e.g., cGAS-STING, NF-κB, and proteostasis-related stress responses), suggesting that different genotypes deploy distinct molecular responses when encountering the same bacterium. The robust, immune-like response of the individuals from Nova Scotia to a bacterium considered commensal in other populations indicates that V. diabolicus may not function as a commensal across the species range. Such genotype-by-microbe specificity points to potential local adaptation to particular bacterial partners that underscores the complexity of holobiont regulation across heterogeneous environments and stresses the importance of assessing additive, synergistic, and antagonistic interactions across hologenomic mosaics.},
}

Animals
*Sea Anemones/microbiology/genetics/immunology
Genotype
*Vibrio/pathogenicity/physiology/genetics
*Symbiosis/genetics
Host-Pathogen Interactions/genetics

@article {pmid42636907,
year = {2026},
author = {Xiang, S and Tian, Y and Tong, C and Qi, X and Ren, T and Ji, B},
title = {Ionic synergy of Ca[2+], Mg[2+], and Fe[2+] Balances hydrophobicity and microbial ecology in microalgal-bacterial granular sludge.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135700},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135700},
pmid = {42636907},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Microalgal-bacterial granular sludge (MBGS) faces structural stability challenges that limit its engineering application. To investigate the regulatory mechanisms of divalent metal ions under light-dark cycles, five experimental groups were established: a blank control, Ca[2+] addition, Mg[2+] addition, Fe[2+] addition, and combined ion addition. Results showed that Fe[2+] was crucial for maintaining granule integrity and promoting photosynthetic taxa through regulating hydrophobic carbon group accumulation in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), though its sole addition caused community specialization and compromised nitrogen/phosphorus removal stability, especially under dark conditions. Ca[2+] enhanced Proteobacteria proliferation and biomass accumulation, improving COD and TN removal, but this effect seemed to be insufficient to counteract granule disintegration caused by iron deficiency. Mg[2+] exhibited limited direct community effects but correlated positively with COD removal and Chl-a/Chl-b ratio. Notably, combined addition achieved balanced EPS hydrophilic-hydrophobic properties, maintained community diversity and functional redundancy, and demonstrated stable pollutant removal through ionic synergy. This study elucidates metal ion regulatory pathways in MBGS, providing theoretical foundations for targeted ion optimization.},
}

@article {pmid42637124,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, X and Zhou, J and Liu, X and Liu, L and Chen, Q and Xiang, Q and Gu, Y and Zhao, K and Zou, L and Wang, Q and Yu, H and Yu, X},
title = {Rhizobia block Cd absorption in peanut via rhizosphere microbiome assembly and N-regulated host defense.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {129012},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129012},
pmid = {42637124},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {Cadmium (Cd) contamination severely threatens peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) production and symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF). Although rhizobia inoculation can alleviate heavy metal toxicity in plants, how nitrate (NO3[-]) regulates Cd translocation and the defense of the "rhizobia-root-nodule" system remains unclear. Here, we investigated the mechanisms by which the peanut rhizobium, Rhizobium sp. HM13, mitigates Cd toxicity and sustains SNF under varying NO3[-] levels (N- and N+) via field and pot trials. Field trials showed that HM13 reduced rhizosphere bioavailable Cd and decreased seed Cd accumulation by 49.9%. Rhizosphere sequencing revealed that HM13 enriched functional taxa, particularly Actinobacteriota, Bacillus, and Bradyrhizobium, enhancing network complexity and stability. Pot experiments confirmed that HM13's Cd-blocking effect was strongly modulated by NO3[-]. Under N+ conditions, Cd stress reduced nitrogenase activity; nitrate supply induced premature nodule senescence, disrupted the symbiotic Cd-exclusion barrier, resulting in increased Cd accumulation in pods. Conversely, under N- conditions, robust symbiotic nitrogen fixation strengthened the root-nodule Cd-exclusion barrier, sustaining nitrogenase activity and reducing pod Cd by 38.6-41.8%. Physiologically, HM13 established a synergistic root-nodule defense network. Roots intercepted Cd via the POD-CAT-GSH-PRO pathway, while nodules protected nitrogenase activity through GR-FLA-mediated redox regulation. Overall, Rhizobium sp. HM13 is a dual-functional strain sustaining SNF and blocking Cd. This study elucidates the nitrogen-regulated SNF-antioxidant defense mechanism, providing theoretical and technical support for safe peanut production in Cd-contaminated farmlands.},
}

@article {pmid42637327,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, P and Liu, Z and Ye, S and Zhang, T and Wang, X and Wang, Y and Piao, C},
title = {Bile salt tolerance enhancement and survival mechanism in Limosilactobacillus fermentum M2 mediated by Kluyveromyces marxianus Y4.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {242},
number = {Pt 5},
pages = {120151},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120151},
pmid = {42637327},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Kluyveromyces/metabolism/physiology ; *Limosilactobacillus fermentum/metabolism/drug effects/growth & development/physiology ; *Bile Acids and Salts/metabolism/pharmacology ; *Microbial Viability/drug effects ; *Probiotics/metabolism ; Coculture Techniques ; },
abstract = {Enhancing the survival capacity of probiotic strains under bile salt (BS) stress via probiotic interactions constitutes a highly prospective novel strategy within the domain of probiotic applications. In this study, based on probiotic characterization of two probiotic strains, designated Limosilactobacillus fermentum M2 and Kluyveromyces marxianus Y4, the viable counts of L. fermentum M2 under BS stress reached from 9.1 to 7.34 log CFU/mL, while co-culture with K. marxianus Y4 significantly increased the survival of L.fermentum M2 by 76.4% compared with monoculture (p < 0.05). In contrast, no significant difference was observed under non - BS stress conditions. Meanwhile metabolites of BS treatment K. marxianus Y4 (BSTKM) enhanced the survival ability of L.fermentum M2 exposed to BS. The observations of the microbial microstructure confirm that BSTKM exerts a protective effect by preserving the structural integrity of L.fermentum M2. Subsequently, metabolomic analysis was performed to identify differential metabolites between BSTKM and BS, while proteomic profiling was used to investigate the differential protein expression in L.fermentum M2 under BSTKM and BS stress. Integrated multi - omics analysis suggested that differential metabolites such as biotin, amino acids, and purines may be associated with DNA repair processes, thereby enhancing the survival ability of L.fermentum M2 under BS stress. This study provides a theoretical foundation for improving the survivability of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) under BS conditions and proposes new perspectives on LAB - yeast symbiotic interactions.},
}

*Kluyveromyces/metabolism/physiology
*Limosilactobacillus fermentum/metabolism/drug effects/growth & development/physiology
*Bile Acids and Salts/metabolism/pharmacology
*Microbial Viability/drug effects
*Probiotics/metabolism
Coculture Techniques

@article {pmid42628764,
year = {2026},
author = {Xiao, R and Li, Y and Liu, P and Chou, HH},
title = {Synthetic microalgal-bacterial symbiotic system integrating oxidase-protease fusion enzyme for simultaneous removal of recalcitrant nitrogen-containing organic compounds and PET microplastics.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135685},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135685},
pmid = {42628764},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Industrial wastewaters-particularly those from the printing and dyeing sector-contain complex mixtures of recalcitrant nitrogen-containing organic compounds and microplastics that resist conventional treatment. Here we report a previously undescribed oxidase-protease fusion enzyme (A20674), discovered through transcriptomic analysis of wastewater-acclimated Chlorella vulgaris. Domain dissection reveals that the oxidase-like region drives broad-spectrum removal of N-heterocyclic and aromatic compounds, while the protease-like domain removes organic nitrogen. Engineered overexpression of this enzyme boosted organic nitrogen removal up to fifty-five-fold (final concentration 13-100 mg/L) across different industrial wastewaters. Capitalizing on this metabolic specialization, we constructed a synthetic microalgal-bacterial consortium in which Pseudomonas putida uses microalgal extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) as a carbon source to sustain growth, while supplying indole-3-acetic acid that stimulates microalgal biomass and EPS production. Reciprocal engineering of EPS overproduction in C. vulgaris and enhanced polysaccharide-catabolism in P. putida amplified this mutualistic loop. An evolved, PETase/MHETase-expressing P. putida strain simultaneously acquired elevated IAA output, further strengthening the symbiosis. The optimized consortium reduced organic nitrogen concentrations by sixteen-fold to discharge-compliant levels (≤5 mg/L), enhanced removal of recalcitrant organic nitrogen compounds by five-fold (final concentration 34 mg/L), and improved PET microplastic removal by nine-fold (initial concentration 1 g/L and final concentration 684 mg/L) in printing and dyeing wastewater. These findings uncover a bifunctional enzyme architecture for degrading structurally diverse industrial pollutants, and establish a synthetic-ecology framework for integrated removal of dissolved nitrogen-containing organic compounds and particulate microplastics-a combination unattainable by any single organism or conventional treatment process.},
}

@article {pmid42629340,
year = {2026},
author = {Wan, X and Zhou, Y and Yang, J and Guo, G and Lei, M and Chen, T},
title = {Engineering Plant-Microbiome Interaction Networks for Predictive Soil Bioremediation Under the Stress-Stability Paradox.},
journal = {Physiologia plantarum},
volume = {178},
number = {4},
pages = {e71082},
doi = {10.1111/ppl.71082},
pmid = {42629340},
issn = {1399-3054},
support = {2023YFD1702300//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 4257072380//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Biodegradation, Environmental ; *Plants/microbiology/metabolism ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Microbiota/physiology ; Soil/chemistry ; Soil Pollutants/metabolism ; Metals, Heavy/metabolism ; Stress, Physiological ; },
abstract = {Soil pollution poses a profound threat to ecosystem and human health. This review proposes a novel framework centered on engineering biological interaction networks for efficient and sustainable soil decontamination, moving beyond the traditional single-species paradigm. We dissect the architecture and dynamics of key interactions, including plant-plant, plant-microbe, and microbe-microbe interactions, within remediation contexts, elucidating how mechanisms like mutualism, competition, and cross-kingdom signaling govern the fate of heavy metals, organic pollutants, and complex mixtures. Crucially, we explore how these natural networks can be actively engineered through strategies such as targeted bioaugmentation, precision biostimulation, and rational plant community assembly to enhance remediation outcomes. Furthermore, we highlight how cutting-edge multi-omics, synthetic ecology, and computational modeling are transitioning the field from descriptive ecology to predictive network design, enabling the decoding of the soil black box and the rational construction of tailored, resilient remediation consortia. Finally, we discuss the ecological challenges of introducing designed networks and outline a future road map toward precision restoration ecology, where theory-guided interaction network management enables effective, stable, and ecologically sound soil clean-up. This network-centric paradigm represents a fundamental shift from experience-based trial-and-error to a principled design approach for restoring soil health.},
}

*Biodegradation, Environmental
*Plants/microbiology/metabolism
*Soil Microbiology
*Microbiota/physiology
Soil/chemistry
Soil Pollutants/metabolism
Metals, Heavy/metabolism
Stress, Physiological

@article {pmid42630429,
year = {2026},
author = {Preiner, J and Steccari, I and Oburger, E and Wienkoop, S},
title = {Excess molybdenum impairs growth, nitrogen metabolism and nutrient translocation of soybean in Bradyrhizobium symbiosis, with parallels to tungsten stress.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1905971},
doi = {10.3389/fpls.2026.1905971},
pmid = {42630429},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Molybdenum (Mo) serves an important biological role as part of cofactors of various enzymes in all domains of life. In plants, it is critical for nitrogen metabolism and integral to rhizobial enzymes such as nitrogenase, which is essential for plant-rhizobia symbiosis. However, like other transition metals, Mo can be toxic at excess concentrations. Its chemical analog tungsten (W) has no biological function in eukaryotes and is known to be toxic, primarily by inhibiting molybdoenzymes. Previously, we found that soybean (Glycine max) in symbiosis with N2-fixing rhizobia (Bradyrhizobium japonicum) (N fix plants) had greater capacity to synthesize protective compounds in response to W-induced stress than KNO3-fertilized (N fed) plants. This shotgun metabolomic and proteomic study investigates the response of N fed and N fix plants to excess Mo (0.5 mM Na2MoO4), whether the metabolic plasticity observed upon W-stress is also present in Mo-exposed N fix plants and the key drivers of this plasticity. Our results show that, similar to W, excess Mo elicits a strong metabolic response in symbiotic soybean plants, disrupting plant growth, photosynthesis, nitrogen metabolism and the translocation of essential nutrients including Fe, Cu, Mn and S. Furthermore, excess Mo elicits a profile of protective compounds that is qualitatively similar to, but quantitatively distinct from, that seen under W stress. Notably, while this defense response was more pronounced in symbiotic plants (N fix) under W and Mo stress, it did not result in restored plant growth. Together, these findings demonstrate that the deployment of protective compounds is largely independent of whether the excess metal is essential for plant growth. The fact that this response is associated with the plant-rhizobia symbiosis highlights the importance of biotic interactions for shaping a plant's chemical defense against abiotic stress.},
}

@article {pmid42631637,
year = {2026},
author = {Downey, ER and Forero Pinto, AM and Booth, AL and Brown, J and Rejniak, KA and Damaghi, M},
title = {Symbiotic cancer cell-stroma crosstalk in the acidic tumor microenvironment.},
journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jeb/voag072},
pmid = {42631637},
issn = {1420-9101},
abstract = {The acidic microenvironment (AME) is a defining metabolic feature of solid tumors that fundamentally reshapes tumor-stroma interactions. Tumor acidosis arises from multiple metabolic processes, including hypoxia-driven glycolysis in poorly vascularized regions, the Warburg Effect (WE) in well-perfused areas, and carbon dioxide accumulation from tumor respiration. As a sustained ecological stress distinct from physiological pH (∼7.4), extracellular acidosis imposes powerful selective pressures within the tumor ecosystem. In response, cancer and stromal cells must adapt through selection of pre-existing phenotypic heterogeneity or acclimate through phenotypic plasticity that enables rapid, non-genetic state transitions. AME influences all stromal components, including fibroblasts, macrophages, extracellular matrix proteins such as collagen and fibronectin, and the broader metabolic habitat, thereby remodeling the tumor niche. Through these adaptive processes, acidosis drives stromal reactivity, niche construction, and reciprocal crosstalk that promote tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. This review highlights AME as an ecological force governing cancer-stroma symbiosis and proposes mathematical modeling as a systems-level tool to dissect the dynamic and nonlinear interactions that shape the tumor ecosystem and evolution.},
}

@article {pmid42631855,
year = {2026},
author = {Cemin, AJ and Graeff-Filho, VL and Nolibos, JPS and Miola, ECC and Mello-Farias, P and Cerqueira, VS},
title = {Spore-based arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community in an olive cultivation area in southern Brazil.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {42631855},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/classification/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology ; *Olea/microbiology/growth & development ; Brazil ; *Spores, Fungal/isolation & purification/classification/genetics ; Soil Microbiology ; *Glomeromycota/classification/isolation & purification ; Rhizosphere ; Seasons ; Phylogeny ; *Mycobiome ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), belonging to the phylum Glomeromycota, establish symbiotic associations with approximately 90% of terrestrial plant species and play a key role in nutrient acquisition, tolerance to abiotic stresses, and agroecosystem functioning. Although olive cultivation has expanded in southern Brazil, information on native AMF communities associated with this crop remains scarce. This study characterized the AMF community associated with the rhizosphere of the olive cultivars Arbequina, Coratina, and Picual cultivated in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Soil sampling was conducted in February 2025, during the summer dry season, when trees were in a vegetative growth, were not flowering or fruiting. Because AMF sporulation may vary according to host phenology and seasonal environmental conditions, the present survey reflects fungal communities under vegetative growth during the dry season. Spores were extracted by wet sieving and identified based on morphological characteristics. Six species belonging to five genera: Acaulospora koskei, Glomus ambisporum, Diversispora globifera, Gigaspora decipiens, Gigaspora rosea, and Scutellospora calospora. G. ambisporum was dominant in all cultivars. Differences among cultivars were observed for G. decipiens, D. globifera, and G. rosea. Cultivar identity explained 56.2% of the total compositional variation. Coratina showed lower evenness due to the dominance of G. ambisporum. SIMPER analysis indicated that G. ambisporum and G. decipiens accounted for 59.7% of the dissimilarity between Arbequina and Coratina. This study represents the first inventory of AMF associated with olive rhizospheres in southern Brazil and provides a basis for selecting native isolates for future inoculant development.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/classification/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology
*Olea/microbiology/growth & development
Brazil
*Spores, Fungal/isolation & purification/classification/genetics
Soil Microbiology
*Glomeromycota/classification/isolation & purification
Rhizosphere
Seasons
Phylogeny
*Mycobiome

@article {pmid42631930,
year = {2026},
author = {Choi, W and Mangal, U and Cha, JK and Cho, H and Ryu, JH and Kim, JY and Koh, WG and Lee, KJ and Kim, KW and Choi, SH and Traverso, G and Hong, J},
title = {A Mucosa-Inspired Dynamic Biointerface Engineering a Biofilm-Preventive Niche Against Pathogenic Microbiome Dysbiosis.},
journal = {Advanced materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e74745},
doi = {10.1002/adma.74745},
pmid = {42631930},
issn = {1521-4095},
support = {//Korea-US Collaborative Research Fund/ ; RS-2024-00468036//Ministry of Science and ICT and Ministry of Health & Welfare/ ; 2025-RISE-10-101//Regional Innovation System & Education/ ; //Regional Anchor company-Academia Partnership Innovation Development/ ; //Institute for Project-Y Seed/ ; RS-2024-00438634//Korea Health Technology R&D Project through the Korea Health Industry Development Institute/ ; //Nano & Material Technology Development Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; RS-2024-00449435//Ministry of Science and ICT/ ; RS-2021-NR059601//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; RS-2023-00217709//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; RS-2025-00522998//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; },
abstract = {A stable symbiosis within the microbiome-host axis is essential for human health. However, preventing microbiome dysbiosis using biomaterials remains challenging due to their unpredictable influence on microbiome evolution. Inspired by the defensive niche of symbiotic mucosa, we have developed a biointerface that forms an engineered mucosa-inspired dynamic niche to prevent pathogenic dysbiosis. This biointerface features a dynamic zwitterionic network that emulates the mucosa's biophysical defensive functions. Notably, by leveraging its dynamic niche, the biointerface restricts microbial attachment and aggregation, thereby preventing biofilm formation. Comprehensive metagenomic analyses reveal that microbial communities adapt to this biofilm-preventive dynamic biointerface compositionally and functionally. In particular, Gram-negative bacteria were relatively reduced, along with decreased abundance of pathways associated with virulence and biofilm formation. Consequently, the mucosa-inspired biointerface intrinsically prevents the development of pathogenic dysbiosis. This study demonstrates the groundbreaking potential of material-based niche engineering to guide the ecological shifts of microbial communities from the material scale.},
}

@article {pmid42624061,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, Q and Zhang, W and Liao, Y and Lv, Y and Wang, W and Wang, H and Li, S and Zhu, L},
title = {Resolving the electron bottleneck in denitrification for N2O mitigation: The roles of algal-mediated metabolic coupling and extracellular electron shuttling networks.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {307},
number = {},
pages = {126669},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.126669},
pmid = {42624061},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Excessive nitrogen (N) discharge from agriculture and industry causes severe ecological harm. Moreover, conventional nitrogen removal processes often generate N2O, adding to the environmental burden. While algal-bacterial consortium has emerged as a low-carbon alternative to address these issues, the bioenergetic mechanisms governing their N2O-mitigation performance remain poorly understood. In this study, a Chlorella sorokiniana-Paracoccus denitrificans consortium was established to clarify the mechanism underlying enhanced N2O mitigation. The consortium achieved superior total nitrogen removal (86.6%) while mitigating N2O emissions by 67.7% compared with the bacterial monoculture system, effectively overcoming the metabolic limitations of denitrification. The consortium established a coordinated nitrogen-metabolic network, which not only upregulated assimilatory pathways but, crucially, enhanced the expression of downstream reductase genes to prevent intermediate accumulation. Comprehensive analysis revealed that the enhanced nitrogen transformation and N2O mitigation in the MIC&BAC system were driven by a dual mechanism involving assimilation shunt and downstream denitrification reinforcement. In this mechanism, algal-bacterial coupling increased ATP and NAD(P)H availability and promoted nitrogen assimilation into biomass, thereby reducing the nitrogen flux entering the denitrification pathway. Meanwhile, improved reducing-equivalent supply and electron-transfer regulation strengthened terminal N2O reduction to N2. Crucially, we identified a key extracellular "redox capacitor" mechanism mediated by extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). The specific enrichment of humic/fulvic acid components and c-type cytochromes formed a redox-active interfacial network with enhanced charge-transfer capacity. The enhanced extracellular electron transfer (EET) process supported more electron delivery to downstream denitrifying reductases while minimizing N2O accumulation. These findings provide new insights into the bioenergetic and electron-transfer mechanisms governing algal-bacterial symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid42625229,
year = {2026},
author = {Talebi Bezmin Abadi, A},
title = {AI in academia: navigating ethical crossroads of innovation, integrity, and equity.},
journal = {BMC research notes},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42625229},
issn = {1756-0500},
mesh = {Humans ; Academia/ethics ; *Artificial Intelligence/ethics ; Generative Artificial Intelligence ; *Biomedical Research/ethics ; Research Personnel/ethics ; },
abstract = {The recent integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into academia could usher in transformative efficiencies across scholarly workflows-from manuscript drafting to data analysis-yet it also presents problematic ethical challenges that urgently require intense attention. While some surveys suggest that over 50% of researchers employ AI chatbots like ChatGPT and DeepSeek for tasks such as language refinement and administrative coordination, their adoption raises potential concerns about cognitive dependency, systemic bias, and accountability gaps. AI tools can enhance productivity by automating repetitive tasks, democratizing access for non-native English speakers, and streamlining literature synthesis. However, reliance on these systems could gradually erode critical thinking skills, particularly among early-career researchers pressured to prioritize publication quantity over rigor. Ethical ambiguities seem to persist: AI-generated content may complicate authorship norms, potentially entrench biases against Global South scholarship, and introduce risks of misinformation. Transparency deficits could further undermine trust, as undisclosed AI use might compromise peer review integrity and patient privacy in medical research. To balance innovation with ethical imperatives, this study advocates a tripartite framework: [1] ethical governance, including mandated disclosure of AI contributions and inclusive dataset curation to mitigate bias; [2] symbiotic human-AI collaboration, preserving human oversight in critical analysis and interpretation; and [3] equitable innovation, leveraging AI to bridge global research disparities. Unresolved challenges-such as accountability for AI errors and the potential cognitive consequences of prolonged dependency-appear to underscore the urgent need for global standards to clarify liability and preserve academic rigor while fostering equitable innovation. Proactive engagement from journals, institutions, and developers may be essential to ensure AI augments, rather than undermines, the integrity and equity of scholarly ecosystems.},
}

Humans
Academia/ethics
*Artificial Intelligence/ethics
Generative Artificial Intelligence
*Biomedical Research/ethics
Research Personnel/ethics

@article {pmid42625297,
year = {2026},
author = {Torres-Llamas, A and Sampedro, A and Díaz-Sáez, V and Morales-Yuste, M and Rodríguez-Granger, J and Pedrosa-Corral, I and Navarro-Marí, JM and Morillas-Márquez, F and Martín-Sánchez, J},
title = {Natural Infection by Toscana Virus and Other Phleboviruses in Wild Sand Flies From Spain: Prevalence, Genetic Characterization and Tripartite Interactions With Leishmania infantum and Wolbachia.},
journal = {Zoonoses and public health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/zph.70086},
pmid = {42625297},
issn = {1863-2378},
support = {PID2022-142230NB-I00//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033)/ ; PREP2022-000570//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033)/ ; PID2022-142230NB-I00//FEDER, EU/ ; PREP2022-000570//FSE+/ ; //Universidad de Granada/CBUA/ ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Toscana virus (TOSV) and Leishmania species are sand fly-borne pathogens that pose a significant public health threat and an increasing risk of exposure in Europe. The objective of this study was to identify the phleboviruses circulating in an area endemic for sand fly-borne pathogens and to estimate infection prevalence in wild sand fly populations. We also aimed to analyse co-infections with L. infantum and the symbiotic bacterium Wolbachia.

METHODS: The study was conducted in southern Spain. Sand flies were collected using CDC light traps, morphologically identified and DNA/RNA was extracted individually or in pools. A generic RT-nested PCR was used to detect phleboviruses, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Leishmania infantum loads were quantified by qPCR, and Wolbachia was detected by PCR.

RESULTS: We found that 2/443 individual sand flies (0.45%) and 8/64 pools (12.5%) were infected with phleboviruses, with an estimated prevalence of 1.9%. We confirm the circulation of TOSV-lineage B, together with Massilia-like virus and Alcube virus, in three sand fly species, and report novel strains of these phleboviruses. In addition, two Phlebotomus perniciosus individuals were co-infected with TOSV-lineage B and Wolbachia wPrn. We also detected L. infantum in 27.6% (60/217) of individuals, 66.7% (40/60) of which were co-infected with Wolbachia. Mean L. infantum loads [log-(parasite load +1)] in specimens co-infected with Wolbachia were not significantly different from those in uninfected specimens (p = 0.4).

CONCLUSIONS: This study provides further evidence for the continued circulation of TOSV and other phleboviruses in sand fly populations in southern Spain, with an estimated prevalence higher than that reported in the same region over a decade ago. Our study provides the first evidence of co-infection with TOSV-lineage B and Wolbachia in P. perniciosus, as well as a high proportion of specimens co-infected with Wolbachia and L. infantum. Understanding these co-infection dynamics is essential to elucidate the potential role of Wolbachia and the impact of Leishmania-phlebovirus co-infection on transmission.},
}

@article {pmid42625767,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiang, T and Wang, Y and Wang, C and Zhou, Z},
title = {The evolution and reconstruction of digital addiction: from compulsive consumption in the internet era to symbiotic dependence in the artificial intelligence era.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1858405},
pmid = {42625767},
issn = {1664-1078},
abstract = {With the development of generative artificial intelligence (AI), human-computer interaction has shifted from a primarily instrumental function to a more human-like symbiotic relationship. However, current research on digital addiction (DA) remains limited to the compulsive consumption characteristic of the Web 2.0 era and does not adequately address the new pathological features emerging with AI. This study uses a narrative review method to systematically trace the evolution from internet addiction disorder to smartphone addiction, and subsequently to AI addiction. Research indicates that DA has progressed from dopamine-driven sensory pursuits to anthropomorphic interaction and cognitive offloading, now influenced by oxytocin and the law of cognitive economy. Building on these findings, this article introduces the concept of "intelligent symbiotic digital addiction," which encompasses "algorithmic intimacy disorder" at the emotional level and "generative dependency syndrome" at the cognitive level. Additionally, it presents the "dual-track drive" pathological theory of cognitive and emotional symbiosis, analyzes the internal mechanisms of subjectivity alienation, offers new perspectives for addressing pathological challenges in the AI era, and suggests directions for future algorithm ethics oversight and clinical intervention.},
}

@article {pmid42625942,
year = {2025},
author = {Pardis, N and Mostafa, N and Fazel, P},
title = {Isolation and Antibacterial Properties of Actinomycetes From Yellow Olive Tree (Olea europaea).},
journal = {Archives of Razi Institute},
volume = {80},
number = {6},
pages = {1533-1542},
pmid = {42625942},
issn = {2008-9872},
mesh = {*Olea/microbiology ; *Actinobacteria/isolation & purification/chemistry/physiology/genetics ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Endophytes/isolation & purification/chemistry ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/analysis ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The symbiotic relationships between actinomycetes and their host plants further enhance their potential as sources of bioactive compounds. These bacteria produce a wide array of secondary metabolites with antimicrobial, insecticidal, and anticancer properties, making them valuable for bioprospecting in pharmaceuticals and agriculture. The ineffectiveness of existing antibiotics has resulted in higher morbidity and mortality rates, alongside escalating healthcare costs due to treatment failures. The rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens poses a significant threat to global health, necessitating the discovery of novel antimicrobial agents.

MATERIALS & METHODS: This study isolates and characterizes endophytic actinomycetes from the yellow olive tree (Olea europaea), a plant known for its rich phytochemical composition, to evaluate their antibacterial potential against ESKAPE pathogens. Samples were collected from olive tree roots, yielding 54 bacterial isolates, of which 45(83.3%) were identified as actinomycetes through 16S rRNA gene amplification. Among these, 16 isolates (35.6%) exhibited antibacterial activity against drug-sensitive and drug-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

RESULTS: Molecular screening revealed that 66.7%, 28.9%, and 93.3% of the isolates harbored non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS), polyketide synthase I (PKS-I), and polyketide synthase II (PKS-II) genes, respectively, which are associated with secondary metabolites biosynthesis. However, no direct correlation was found between these biosynthetic genes and antibacterial activity, suggesting that gene expression and environmental factors play crucial roles in metabolite production.

CONCLUSION: The study highlights the potential of endophytic actinomycetes from O. europaea as a source of novel antimicrobial compounds, particularly in the fight against MDR pathogens. These findings underscore the importance of exploring plant-associated microbes for developing new therapeutic agents to address the global antibiotic resistance crisis.},
}

*Olea/microbiology
*Actinobacteria/isolation & purification/chemistry/physiology/genetics
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Endophytes/isolation & purification/chemistry
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/analysis

@article {pmid42626785,
year = {2026},
author = {Konečná, E and Steinová, J and Černajová, I and Grewe, F},
title = {Unravelling the Secret of Phantom Phenotypes in Macrolichens: Insights From Cladonia bellidiflora Complex.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {35},
number = {16},
pages = {e70515},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70515},
pmid = {42626785},
issn = {1365-294X},
support = {24-10510K//Grantová Agentura České Republiky/ ; 111824//Grantová Agentura, Univerzita Karlova/ ; EHP-BFNU-OVNKM-3-056-2020//EEA and Norway grants 2014-2021/ ; //The Grainger Foundation/ ; UNCE/24/SCI/006//University Centre of Excellence (UNCE)/ ; },
mesh = {*Phenotype ; *Symbiosis/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; *Ascomycota/genetics/classification ; *Lichens/genetics/microbiology/classification ; DNA, Fungal/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Actins/genetics ; Chlorophyta/genetics ; },
abstract = {Lichens are unique among symbiotic organisms because their distinctive features develop only through interactions between the partners and differ from the appearance of each partner when grown separately in culture. Traditionally, lichen phenotype has been assumed to be determined by the mycobiont; however, exceptions exist that challenge the universal validity of this rule. One example is the phenomenon of 'phantom phenotypes', where lichens with genetically indistinguishable mycobionts exhibit distinct morphologies, sometimes better explained by differences among other symbiotic partners. In previous work, we documented such a case in the Cladonia bellidiflora complex, a group of red-fruited macrolichens with striking morphological and ecological variation, in which photobiont identity corresponded more closely to phenotype than the mycobiont when studied using five molecular markers. Here, we investigate this phenomenon using restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) of both fungal and algal symbionts, combined with Sanger sequencing of ITS rDNA and the actin locus of the photobiont. Our results indicate that recent fungal divergence, together with correlated photobiont differentiation, is associated with the observed phenotypic differentiation, highlighting the importance of sensitive methods in similar cases. Specifically, RADseq analyses revealed a clear split between C. bellidiflora and all sorediate taxa, including C. polydactyla and C. umbricola, which showed no genomic differentiation, supporting their recognition as a single species. Additionally, substrate preference, symbiont associations and dispersal strategy appear to have acted in parallel to shape diversification in this complex. Photobiont data revealed unexpected patterns: esorediate C. bellidiflora associated with narrow photobiont sets, whereas sorediate lineages harboured a broader photobiont pool.},
}

*Phenotype
*Symbiosis/genetics
Sequence Analysis, DNA
*Ascomycota/genetics/classification
*Lichens/genetics/microbiology/classification
DNA, Fungal/genetics
DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/genetics
Phylogeny
Actins/genetics
Chlorophyta/genetics

@article {pmid42627030,
year = {2026},
author = {McDougall, R and Storey, M and Hall, K and Feldman, S and Geluk, M and Halpin, W and Simionato, J and Luo, J and Ko, D},
title = {Responding Ethically to Violence From Patients and Families in the Hospital Emergency Department: A Symbiotic Empirical Ethics Study.},
journal = {Bioethics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/bioe.70176},
pmid = {42627030},
issn = {1467-8519},
support = {2023/000175//Avant Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Violent behaviour by patients and families is a significant issue facing healthcare providers, with a particularly high prevalence in hospital emergency departments. Occupational violence and aggression (OVA) puts both staff and patients at risk of physical and psychological harm and can affect the delivery of timely patient care. To help address this issue, many healthcare settings have adopted zero-tolerance language in relation to OVA. Drawing on interviews with 25 emergency department staff in one Australian hospital, we argue that a more nuanced ethical approach is needed and develop a framework of values for responding ethically to OVA incidents in the emergency department. Staff are ethically and legally entitled to a safe working environment, and their safety should be protected. Yet some patients acting aggressively, including patients without capacity, need emergency medical or psychiatric healthcare and ways must be found to deliver such care. For some other patients and visitors however, removal from the hospital is ethically appropriate. The unique uncertainty and urgency of emergency department work means that six values are important in ethical responses to OVA: staff safety, the health needs of the patient acting aggressively, the patient's decision-making capacity, community safety, fair resource allocation, and compassion. We argue for an approach which prioritizes staff safety while also considering the other values, in order to generate nuanced ethical decisions which are sensitive to the range of OVA situations that arise in emergency departments.},
}

@article {pmid42627153,
year = {2026},
author = {Wei, N and Lu, J and Chai, B and Sun, S and Zhou, B and Lin, Z},
title = {Stage- and host-dependent microbiome remodeling and reciprocal changes between Haemaphysalis longicornis and host skin.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0086426},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.00864-26},
pmid = {42627153},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Ticks harbor diverse microbial communities that are crucial for their biology and capacity to transmit pathogens. Although interactions between tick and host skin microbiomes are likely to play critical roles in feeding and pathogen transmission, these reciprocal changes during tick-host interactions remain largely unexplored. Here, we used 16S rRNA-seq to investigate how blood feeding by Haemaphysalis longicornis (larvae, nymphs, and adults) influences both the tick microbiome and the host skin microbiome. We further characterized microbial distribution across major tick tissues. Results revealed that feeding on different host species (mice vs rabbits) significantly altered the tick microbiome. Blood feeding reshaped microbial communities in the salivary glands and midgut, whereas the ovarian microbiome exhibited remarkable stability, suggesting the maintenance of a conserved symbiotic microbial core. Notably, Coxiella was identified as the dominant and stable bacterial symbiont across developmental stages and tissues and was consistently detected in eggs, suggesting that persistent vertical transmission may contribute to tick development, fitness, and nutritional homeostasis. On the other hand, Staphylococcus was consistently enriched at tick bite sites across host species and developmental stages, indicating that it may represent a key microbial responder involved in local microbiome remodeling and host skin responses to tick feeding. Collectively, these findings suggest that blood feeding drives dynamic remodeling of both tick and host skin-associated microbiomes and highlights Coxiella persistence and Staphylococcus enrichment as key microbial signatures of tick-host microbial interactions. Our study advances current understanding of microbiome cross-talk at the tick-host interface and provides new insights into microbiome-mediated mechanisms that may influence tick adaptation, host responses, and pathogen transmission. These findings also highlight potential opportunities for the development of microbiome-based strategies for the control of ticks and tick-borne diseases.IMPORTANCEMicrobial communities are fundamental regulators of host physiology, development, and ecological interactions. In arthropod vectors, microbiomes play important roles in development, reproduction, and pathogen transmission. However, the dynamic interactions between vector-associated microbiomes and host skin microbiomes during blood feeding remain poorly understood, particularly in ticks. Here, we found that both tick-associated and host skin microbiomes showed stage- and host-dependent alterations following tick bites. Host species differentially reshaped microbial communities across tick tissues, whereas tick bites reciprocally altered the composition of host skin microbiomes. The stable vertical maintenance of Coxiella and the enrichment of Staphylococcus at bite sites suggest that specific microbial taxa might be involved in tick and host ecological interactions. Collectively, our findings provide evidence for bidirectional microbiome modulation at the tick-host interface and highlight potential targets for the development of microbiome-based strategies to control ticks and tick-borne diseases.},
}

@article {pmid42628369,
year = {2026},
author = {Zheng, M and Liu, Y and Qiu, S and Chen, G and Ge, S and Liang, H},
title = {Dark-light cycle driven metabolic H2/O2 switching for benzothiazole removal and sulfate transformation in a nano-Fe3O4-assisted anoxic bacterial-microalgal biofilm.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {307},
number = {},
pages = {126737},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.126737},
pmid = {42628369},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Benzothiazole (BTH) and sulfate coexist in thiazole-containing pharmaceutical wastewater, but their biological removal is constrained by conflicting redox requirements for oxidative ring cleavage and reductive sulfate transformation. Here, a nano-Fe3O4-assisted anoxic bacterial-microalgal biofilm (ABMB) was constructed to couple dark-light cycle driven metabolic H2/O2 switching with pollutant conversion. During long-term operation (60 days) at a hydraulic retention time of 24 h, the nano-Fe3O4-assisted ABMB achieved 99.3 ± 0.7% BTH removal, 92.9 ± 2.1% sulfate removal, and 49.8 ± 8.7% total organic carbon removal, outperforming suspended and unmodified biofilm systems. Metabolism analysis indicated that BTH was transformed through hydroxylation and thiazole-ring cleavage to 2-mercaptophenyl-carbamate and further degradable intermediates, whereas sulfate was converted mainly into recoverable elemental sulfur. The 6 h dark/6 h light cycle was optimal for coordinating the sulfate reduction and the BTH oxidation degradation. Metagenomic and physiological analyses further validated that nano-Fe3O4 enhanced extracellular electron transfer, regulated photosynthetic activity and optimized biofilm structure, as well as enriched key genes related to BTH oxidation, sulfate reduction, and sulfide oxidation. This system breaks the conventional reliance on microalgae solely for O2 supply by harnessing a dark-light cycle driven metabolic H2/O2 switching mechanism. It provides a paradigm shift in bacterial-microalgal symbiosis with a sustainable, zero-aeration, and resource-oriented strategy for treating thiazole-containing wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid42618361,
year = {2026},
author = {Zwahlen, SM and Vincent, F},
title = {Symbiotic capacity in a changing ocean: emerging questions around phytoplankton interactions.},
journal = {Trends in ecology & evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tree.2026.07.009},
pmid = {42618361},
issn = {1872-8383},
abstract = {Phytoplankton fix half of global CO2 annually and drive key global nutrient cycles. They depend on interactions with bacteria, viruses, and protists. Yet our understanding of these interactions remains fragmented. We introduce symbiotic capacity-an organism's ability to initiate, maintain, and modulate partnerships-as a quantifiable trait fundamental to phytoplankton ecology and resilience in changing oceans. By adapting Tinbergen's four questions from ethology, we reveal critical gaps in our knowledge regarding phytoplankton symbiotic capacity. While functional benefits, molecular mechanisms, and evolutionary origins of phytoplankton symbioses are increasingly documented, their developmental dynamics remain almost entirely unexplored. Bridging molecular mechanisms to planetary-scale biogeochemical processes requires a fifth question and suitable model systems, such as Chaetoceros diatoms, that integrate laboratory tractability with ecological relevance.},
}

@article {pmid42618688,
year = {2026},
author = {Atwa, MAM and El-Abeid, SE},
title = {Bioformulations of Entrophospora lutea enriched with biostimulants for growth promotion and control of Rhizoctonia root rot in lupine.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42618688},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Rhizoctonia/drug effects/growth & development ; *Lupinus/microbiology/growth & development ; *Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development ; *Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control ; *Mycorrhizae/physiology ; Symbiosis ; Soil Microbiology ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) Entrophospora lutea was previously selected as a highly compatible isolate for lupine, and the main objective of the present study was to further improve its performance and practical applicability by developing two E. lutea formulations using peat and vermiculite carriers enriched with various biostimulants. Incorporating biostimulants into AMF formulations can enhance fungal performance and root symbiosis. The first formulation contained proline, ascorbic acid, and hemicellulose, whereas the second contained proline, humic acid, and mannitol. Both formulations improved AMF performance by increasing the number of infective propagules and root colonization rate. Their efficacy against Rhizoctonia root rot in lupine was evaluated in comparison with unamended E. lutea and the fungicide Rizolex under greenhouse and field conditions. Under greenhouse conditions, Formulation 2 increased plant survival to 92% and reduced disease severity to 24.2%, compared with 48% survival and 65.8% disease severity in the infected control. Root colonization reached 78% and 69% for Formulations 1 and 2, respectively, compared with 53% for the unamended E. lutea. These improvements were associated with enhanced plant growth, nodulation, nitrogenous activity, and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities. Formulation 2 showed a more pronounced effect with increased proline accumulation and caused 82.6% reduction in H2O2 accumulation compared with the infected control. Under field conditions, both formulations improved yield compared with the untreated control across the two growing seasons. No significant differences were observed between the AMF formulations and Rizolex for most evaluated parameters. These findings demonstrate that the developed biostimulants-enriched AMF formulations are effective and environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical fungicides for controlling R. solani root rot in lupine, while improving plant growth and productivity.},
}

*Rhizoctonia/drug effects/growth & development
*Lupinus/microbiology/growth & development
*Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development
*Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control
*Mycorrhizae/physiology
Symbiosis
Soil Microbiology

@article {pmid42618767,
year = {2026},
author = {Heaver, SL and Ley, RE},
title = {Bacterial lipid structural diversity mediates commensalism and pathogenesis.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42618767},
issn = {1740-1534},
abstract = {The human immune system must continuously distinguish between pathogenic bacteria and the numerous symbiotic bacteria that live in and on our bodies. In part, this distinction is driven by host sensing of specific lipid structures that comprise the bacterial membrane. Bacterial lipids from commensal and pathogenic bacteria alike are sensed via lipid recognition receptors, initiating downstream responses in the innate and adaptive immune systems. However, structural variations in the lipids from commensal bacteria tend to enable overall less stimulatory or more immunomodulatory outcomes following host recognition. This contributes to homeostatic immunity in their hosts, supporting normal immune development, proper immune responses and functional gut physiology. Conversely, in some pathogens, similar lipid modifications enable evasion or modulation of the immune system. Here, we review how the detection of pathogenic and commensal lipids via Toll-like receptor 2, Toll-like receptor 4 and CD1 lipid antigen presentation is mediated by bacterial lipid structure, with subsequent outcomes on host physiology.},
}

@article {pmid42619259,
year = {2026},
author = {Van Haeften, S and Brunner, SM and Dinglasan, E and Fabreag, E and Eyre, J and Mens, C and Hayes, BJ and Udvardi, M and Alahmad, S and Eglinton, M and McQuinn, R and Ryan, M and van der Meer, S and Smith, MR and Hickey, LT},
title = {Genetic legacy effects in a mungbean-wheat rotation reveal potential to breed for system-level yield gains.},
journal = {Plant communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {102081},
doi = {10.1016/j.xplc.2026.102081},
pmid = {42619259},
issn = {2590-3462},
abstract = {Legume crops provide protein-rich food, critical disease breaks in cereal rotations, and contribute to soil fertility through symbiotic nitrogen fixation. However, crop improvement programs typically focus on within-crop performance rather than system-level benefits. We hypothesise that legacy effects (the influence of one crop's genotype on subsequent crop performance) are under genetic control and could be leveraged in breeding programs. To test this, we evaluated how 309 genetically diverse mungbean genotypes influence subsequent wheat performance. The mungbean panel was grown, followed by a single wheat cultivar sown in the same plot locations. Remarkably, wheat yield varied by nearly 1 t ha[-1] (2.52-3.49 t ha[-1]) depending solely on the preceding mungbean genotype, with legacy effects displaying moderate heritability (H[2]: 0.43-0.65) and demonstrating untapped genetic potential for breeding, although these estimates derive from a single site and season and require validation across environments. Analyses of mungbean traits, soil properties, and volatile organic compounds identified root architecture, symbiotic nitrogen fixation and the soil microbiome as candidate mechanisms underlying legacy effects, which remain to be tested directly. Haplotype mapping identified genomic regions in mungbean associated with wheat yield, and to a lesser extent grain protein, revealing trade-offs between within-crop performance and legacy effects. Genetic simulations using empirically derived marker effects compared genomic selection strategies targeting mungbean yield, wheat yield, or both simultaneously. A selection strategy placing equal weight on mungbean yield and subsequent wheat yield (50:50 weighting) achieved simultaneous gains in both crops (19.5% and 7.6%), highlighting the opportunity to breed for system-level productivity with reduced input requirements.},
}

@article {pmid42619407,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiang, J and Cao, Y and Dirbaba, NB and Xia, Y and Xie, J},
title = {Symbiont-mediated insecticide resistance in insect hosts: Mechanisms and integrated management prospects.},
journal = {Insect science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/1744-7917.70340},
pmid = {42619407},
issn = {1744-7917},
support = {2025YFA0924200//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2024CDJQYJCYJ-001//Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities/ ; },
abstract = {The rapid escalation of insecticide resistance poses a profound threat to global food security and public health. While chemical resistance mechanisms are well characterized, the functional contribution of symbiotic microorganisms has only recently gained prominence. However, the intricate molecular cross-talk between insect symbionts and host detoxification pathways remains poorly defined, constraining our capacity to leverage these interactions for resistance management. This review synthesizes current findings on how endosymbionts and gut microbiota modulate insecticide resistance across diverse pest lineages. We critically evaluate evidence from multiple systems, underscoring the inherent complexity and context-dependency of symbiont-mediated effects. A pivotal insight emerging from this synthesis is the dual role of specific symbionts, which may either augment or attenuate host resistance contingent upon environmental stressors and host genetic architecture. Building on these foundations, we propose a "holobiont" that conceptualizes the insect host and its associated microbiota as a unified functional entity in the evolution of resistance. This framework identifies discrete molecular interfaces and symbiont taxa as promising candidates for intervention. By integrating mechanistic insights with applied objectives, this review delineates a strategic roadmap for the development of sustainable, next-generation tools to mitigate the spread of insecticide resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42619427,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, X and Liu, BQ and Chen, ZB and Li, CQ and Li, XY and Luan, JB},
title = {A horizontally acquired pantothenate gene drives vitellogenin's benefit to whitefly symbiosis persistence.},
journal = {Insect science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/1744-7917.70345},
pmid = {42619427},
issn = {1744-7917},
support = {2024-BSLH-278//Department of Science and Technology of Liaoning Province/ ; 32402376//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2025T181038//The China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Insects can survive in nutrient-poor environments owing to nutritional symbionts that produce vitamins and essential amino acids (EAAs). Nonetheless, how symbionts actively benefit from this nutritional symbiosis remains incompletely understood. Horizontally transferred genes (HTGs) expressed in bacteriocytes can function autonomously or cooperatively with symbionts to biosynthesize EAAs or B vitamins. We previously demonstrated that the horizontally transferred panBC and the symbiont Portiera cooperatively synthesize vitamin B5 (pantothenate), thereby enhancing whitefly fecundity. Beyond supporting host reproduction, this nutritional symbiosis also confers a fitness advantage on the symbionts. We further showed that induction of autophagy reduces symbiont abundance in bacteriocytes, whereas inhibition of autophagy increases it. Here, we found that silencing panBC reduced Portiera titer, impaired whitefly oogenesis, and disrupted vitellogenin (Vg) localization in ovarioles and bacteriocytes by modulating juvenile hormone biosynthesis. Pantothenate supplementation restored Vg localization in panBC RNAi whiteflies. Furthermore, silencing either Vg or panBC induced autophagy in bacteriocytes, and rapamycin-induced autophagy decreased symbiont titers. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that pantothenate, synthesized cooperatively by the horizontally transferred panBC and Portiera, regulates Vg localization in whiteflies and that Vg, in turn, protects symbionts from autophagic degradation. Our study suggests that horizontally transferred genes and symbionts jointly contribute to an important role of Vg in maintaining and shaping the evolution of insect-symbiont interactions. This study advances our understanding of how HTGs contribute to the persistence of nutritional symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid42619670,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, H and Xu, B and Guo, Y and Zhou, C and Yang, M and Liu, Y and Zhong, Z and Li, CY and Tian, X and Wang, Y and Flatau, R and Wang, M and Zhang, T and Distel, DL and Li, Y},
title = {Hologenomics of xylotrophic bivalves reveals a minimalist, remote-acting evolutionary strategy of wood digestion.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.07.25.740686},
pmid = {42619670},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Wood constitutes the largest reservoir of biogenic carbon on Earth, yet remarkably few animals can exploit it. While terrestrial wood-feeders like termites rely on highly diverse gut microbiomes, xylotrophic marine bivalves have evolved a fundamentally different approach: a spatially segregated system where intracellular gill symbionts produce enzymes that act remotely within a nearly sterile cecum. However, the genetic and evolutionary basis of this unique symbiosis remains largely elusive. Here, we integrate hologenomics, transcriptomics, and biochemistry of a shallow-water shipworm (Teredo navalis) and a deep-sea borer (Xyloredo sp.). We find that despite diverging approximately 147 million years ago and occupying drastically different habitats, these bivalves maintain a strictly conserved ancestral karyotype and a shared genomic architecture for wood digestion. Our models reveal a clear host-symbiont division of labor. The host genome is specialized for lignin modification and targeted enzyme transport, whereas a highly streamlined symbiont community is responsible for core polysaccharide degradation. Central to this minimalist strategy is a lineage-specific GH5-GH6 dual-catalytic enzyme. By sharing amino acids across proximal binding pockets, this fusion protein unites endo- and exo-cellulase activities, enabling highly synergistic cellulose cleavage without the need for complex microbial communities. Ultimately, our comparative analysis with terrestrial models demonstrates that these marine invertebrates achieve efficient biomass degradation not through microbial expansion, but through extreme functional streamlining and molecular innovation, offering a distinct evolutionary paradigm for marine carbon cycling.},
}

@article {pmid42619704,
year = {2026},
author = {Guha, S and Gil Polo, MA and Paillan, E and Sutherland, J and Bingham, E and Clouse, K and Burghardt, L},
title = {Alfalfa varieties can weakly choose beneficial nitrogen-fixing bacteria from a population isolated from a single field.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.06.12.731664},
pmid = {42619704},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {In natural and agricultural systems, legumes recruit rhizobia from diverse soil populations to fix nitrogen in root nodules. A few legumes, including the model legume Medicago truncatula, can select and enrich beneficial rhizobia. Here, we investigated whether its perennial relative, Medicago sativa (alfalfa), a globally important forage crop, also possesses this ability. We developed a genetically variable collection of 117 Sinorhizobium meliloti strains sampled from three field-grown alfalfa varieties, performed multi-strain and single-strain inoculations in a nitrogen-free greenhouse experiment across the same hosts, and evaluated plant benefits and relative strain fitness in nodules. Alfalfa varieties differed in which strains best promoted plant growth and which strains had high fitness in nodules. Regressing strain fitness and host benefit revealed that two of three alfalfa varieties selected and enriched more beneficial strains during symbiosis, though the strength of selection was weak. In alignment with these results, no variety produced as much biomass in mixed inoculation as it did with the best-performing single strain. Legumes' ability to enrich beneficial rhizobial populations from field-representative strain diversity warrants further study to develop optimized varieties. Ultimately, identifying crop varieties that naturally select for beneficial bacteria could reduce the need for repeated inoculant applications.},
}

@article {pmid42619727,
year = {2026},
author = {Ruggeri, M and Bedgood, S and Cai, JB and Qian, J and Montesanto, F and McCauley, M and Dyer, GE and Oluokun, A and Fowowe, M and Oluokun, O and Mechref, Y and Harii, S and Loesgen, S and Weis, VM},
title = {Thermal pre-treatment of algal symbiont species differentially affects coral development.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.07.24.739192},
pmid = {42619727},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {The foundation of coral reef ecosystems centered around the nutritional relationship between corals and intracellular algal symbionts. Although these symbioses are highly obligate for coral hosts, many partnerships are re-established anew with each coral generation. Furthermore, climate change destabilizes the symbiosis, and the cellular mechanisms underlying successful symbiont colonization of hosts and host development, and how they are affected by thermal stress are poorly understood. Here, we explored the effect of algal species and thermal treatments on symbiont and host cell proliferation by offering Acropora tenuis larvae one of four algal species pre-exposed to elevated or ambient temperature. In addition, we characterized the cell-surface glycome of each species-temperature combination to understand its role in symbiont recognition and proliferation. We found that thermal pre-treatment negatively affected algal photosynthetic efficiency and initial symbiont density in hosts, but did not affect symbiont colonization rate or cell proliferation. In contrast, host cell proliferation was affected in a species-specific manner. Thermal pre-treatment of B. minutum and D. trenchii negatively affected host cell proliferation compared to control symbionts, whereas thermal treatment of S. microadriaticum did not affect developmental outcomes. Further, uptake of thermally pre-treated D. trenchii decreased host cell proliferation below that of larvae not offered any symbionts, indicating that this relationship is costly to host development despite the high thermal tolerance of this species. Algal surface glycan composition varied across species but not by thermal pre-treatment, suggesting reductions in density of thermally pre-treated algae may be due to changes in physiology rather than altered surface chemistry. Further, variation in glycan abundance across species did not track differences in colonization rate or symbiont density, hinting towards a smaller role of glycans in host-symbiont specificity.},
}

@article {pmid42619780,
year = {2026},
author = {Fong, V and Ly, M and Erickson, AW and Abeysundara, N and Hendrikse, L and Ommeren, RV and Balin, P and Mishra, J and Livingston, B and Skowron, P and Sirbu, O and Mankahla, N and Zhang, J and Richman, C and Suarez, R and Huang, N and Wang, H and Qin, L and Douglas, T and Pallotta, J and Mak, E and Kumar, SA and Kaushik, AK and Vu, H and Zacharias, L and Veerasammy, K and Chen, YX and Ocsenas, O and Voisin, V and Taj, F and Koubourli, D and Dzieciol, V and Xu, L and Harvey, M and Fan, JJ and Przelicki, D and Yeh, A and Kharas, K and Rasnitsyn, A and Wang, E and Ong, W and Jubenville, T and Yang, Q and Huang, X and Ayrault, O and Wechsler-Reya, R and Egan, SE and Largaespada, D and DeBerardinis, RJ and Ye, H and Abzalimov, R and Stein, L and Ellison, DW and Bader, G and Lucas, CH and Saulnier, O and Shih, D and Reimand, J and Daniels, C and Singh, S and Agnihotri, S and Rich, JN and Ramaswamy, V and Taylor, MD and Wu, X},
title = {Medulloblastoma Forms Symbiotic Metabolic Partnerships with Macrophages to Establish Leptomeningeal Metastases.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.07.26.740417},
pmid = {42619780},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Leptomeningeal metastases are the primary source of morbidity and mortality for pediatric medulloblastoma patients. Due to limited surgical sampling of metastases in patients, little is understood of the mechanisms of metastasis. Here, we identify biologically distinct quiescent small metastases (designated as micrometastases) and mitotically active larger metastases (macrometastases). Macrometastases are more metabolically active than micrometastases and contain higher levels of lipids, particularly cholesterol. Macrometastases secrete CXCL12, which attracts lipid-laden macrophages into the tumor. Lipid-laden macrophages upregulate the cholesterol transporter ABCG1, promoting the efflux of free cholesterol, which is then taken up by tumor cells via the HDL receptor SCARB1. CXCL12-driven macrophage recruitment and exogenous cholesterol are sufficient and necessary to drive progression of medulloblastoma leptomeningeal metastases in vivo. High fat diets drive metastatic progression in vivo. Dietary or pharmacological interventions targeting the CXCL12-SCARB1-cholesterol axis represent therapeutic strategies to either prevent or treat medulloblastoma leptomeningeal metastases.},
}

@article {pmid42621945,
year = {2026},
author = {Gao, X and Zheng, Y},
title = {Research advances in early diagnosis and treatment strategies for peri-implantitis: from microecology to regenerative therapy.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1863773},
pmid = {42621945},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *Peri-Implantitis/therapy/diagnosis/microbiology ; Early Diagnosis ; Biomarkers ; Dysbiosis ; *Regenerative Medicine/methods ; Biofilms/growth & development ; },
abstract = {Peri-implantitis, a plaque-associated inflammatory disease characterized by progressive bone loss around functional implants, poses a significant threat to the long-term success of oral rehabilitation. The understanding of its etiology has evolved from a traditional infection model to a dysbiosis-based host-microbe interaction disorder model. This paradigm shift underscores the critical need for early detection and novel therapeutic strategies. This review comprehensively summarizes recent research advances within a logical framework: microbial dysbiosis, early diagnosis, treatment evolution, and regeneration. We detail the transition from a symbiotic microflora to a pathogenic biofilm, emphasizing key pathogens and host immune dysregulation mechanisms. The review evaluates the refinement of clinical and imaging diagnostics, the application of molecular biomarkers for early warning, and the emergence of point-of-care testing (POCT). Treatment strategies are discussed, moving beyond mechanical debridement to include innovative approaches like microecological modulation and regenerative therapies employing guided bone regeneration (GBR), bioactive factors, and tissue engineering concepts. Finally, we address current challenges in clinical translation and highlight future directions, including integrated diagnostics, personalized minimally invasive treatment, and smart biomaterials. The effective management of peri-implantitis necessitates an integrated strategy combining microbiological control with predictable tissue regeneration, requiring interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure the long-term stability of implant restorations.},
}

Humans
*Peri-Implantitis/therapy/diagnosis/microbiology
Early Diagnosis
Biomarkers
Dysbiosis
*Regenerative Medicine/methods
Biofilms/growth & development

@article {pmid42612471,
year = {2026},
author = {Gong, H and Fu, M and Wang, N and Zheng, J and Zhang, W and Ye, J and Wang, Q and Jiang, L and Liao, Y and Xu, F and Cong, X and Yang, W},
title = {Research Progress on Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi-mediated Selenium Uptake, Transport, and Metabolism in Plants.},
journal = {Plant physiology and biochemistry : PPB},
volume = {238},
number = {},
pages = {111641},
doi = {10.1016/j.plaphy.2026.111641},
pmid = {42612471},
issn = {1873-2690},
abstract = {Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for human health, playing a crucial role in antioxidant defense and immune regulation. However, the uneven global distribution of bioavailable Se in soils has led to widespread dietary Se deficiency, posing a potential public health risk. Although plants are the primary dietary source of Se, their intrinsic capacity for Se enrichment is limited. This necessitates the exploration of microbial-assisted strategies for enhancing Se biofortification. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are keystone symbionts in the plant-soil continuum and are known to significantly improve plant nutrient acquisition. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms underlying AMF-mediated Se metabolism in plants remain incompletely understood. This review systematically summarizes extant knowledge on the molecular regulation of AMF-mediated Se uptake, transport, and assimilation in plants, with a focus on symbiotic signal perception, Se transport networks, Se speciation, and their integrated roles in plant stress responses. The aim is to provide a theoretical foundation for the development of Se-rich agriculture through biological approaches and for breeding crops with enhanced stress tolerance. Furthermore, this review provides insights into the sustainable advancement of agroecological restoration and functional agriculture.},
}

@article {pmid42613963,
year = {2026},
author = {Heslop, AD and Arojju, SK and Hofmann, RW and Ford, JL and Hefer, CA and Jahufer, MZZ and Larking, AC and Hong, W and Bilton, TP and Ashby, R and O'Connor, J and Griffiths, AG},
title = {Harnessing exotic germplasm for red clover improvement: Tracking genomic introgression and deploying genomic selection.},
journal = {The plant genome},
volume = {19},
number = {3},
pages = {e70287},
doi = {10.1002/tpg2.70287},
pmid = {42613963},
issn = {1940-3372},
support = {//Bioeconomy Science Institute-AgResearch/ ; PRJ0036572//TR Ellett Trust/ ; G-202201-00511//Kathleen Spragg Agricultural Fellowship/ ; //Grasslands Innovation Legume Research Programme-AgResearch Clover and Herb Breeding Continuum/ ; },
mesh = {*Trifolium/genetics ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; *Selection, Genetic ; *Genome, Plant ; Phenotype ; *Genetic Introgression ; Plant Breeding/methods ; Genotype ; },
abstract = {Red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) is a globally important temperate forage legume. Its symbiosis with soil-borne rhizobia enables nitrogen fixation, and its ability to produce quality forage under diverse soil conditions enhances pasture productivity, particularly during water deficits. With increasing climate-related stresses, harnessing adaptive traits absent in current cultivars is critical. Genebanks conserve diverse red clover germplasm, providing genetic variation for agronomic and adaptive traits. In this study, we introgressed novel germplasm into locally adapted cultivars to track the inheritance of allelic variants using genotyping-by-sequencing. Multi-location, multi-year trials evaluated half-sib families (generation two [Gen 2]) two generations removed from the exotic germplasm (genereation zero [Gen 0]) against local cultivars. Several Gen 2 populations matched or outperformed local cultivars and exhibited a moderate family mean heritability (h[2] > 0.40) for most traits. Integrating genomic, phenotypic, and environmental data, 77 bioclimatic-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified, of which 35 SNPs and 27 associated genes were significantly linked to trait expression. By using the original germplasm (Gen 0) as a training population and the derived half-sib families (Gen 2) as a validation population, genomic prediction models were developed to calculate prediction accuracies for key agronomic traits. Biomass and plot density traits showed high predictive abilities and the highest prediction accuracies across generations. This study demonstrates a route by which genetic diversity from genebanks can be successfully incorporated into local populations, enabling evaluation and selection of key traits. The identified molecular markers and genomic prediction models provide a pathway to efficiently develop climate-adaptive red clover cultivars.},
}

*Trifolium/genetics
Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
*Selection, Genetic
*Genome, Plant
Phenotype
*Genetic Introgression
Plant Breeding/methods
Genotype

@article {pmid42614658,
year = {2026},
author = {Riabzev, A and Metzner, S},
title = {From dissociation to embodied memory through voice: music therapists' perspectives on vocal music therapy with women survivors of sexualized trauma.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychiatry},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1852780},
pmid = {42614658},
issn = {1664-0640},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Sexualized trauma is frequently accompanied by dissociation, disrupted embodiment, and loss of voice. Although somatic and arts-based approaches are increasingly integrated into trauma care, little is known about how music therapists conceptualize and implement voicework with women survivors of sexualized trauma. Drawing on expert interviews, this study explores therapists' perspectives on vocal music therapy as an embodied-relational pathway from dissociation toward integration and embodied memory.

METHODOLOGY: A qualitative expert interview study employed reflexive thematic analysis. Seven experienced female music therapists (ages ~36-78) from Israel, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Belgium participated in semi-structured interviews (~120 minutes) conducted via video platform and transcribed verbatim. Analysis focused on embodied, relational, and affective dimensions of voicework.

ANALYSIS: Three interrelated themes emerged: (1) Cutting the Dissociation-breath, toning, mirroring, and free-associative singing linked fragmented self-parts and mobilized dissociated affect within co-regulated holding fields. (2) Creating Memories-titrated vocal engagement fostered bodily reconnection and embodied sensory awareness, supported agency, and enabled the formation of returnable experiential traces; voicework also carried risks of evoking traumatic memories, underscoring the need for careful pacing. (3) Changing Positions within the Abuse Constellation-dynamic, vocally enacted movement among victim, perpetrator, bystander, and neglectful caregiver positions illuminated transference-countertransference processes and facilitated shifts from avoidance and symbiosis toward boundaries, including an embodied "no," and individuation.

DISCUSSION: The discussion integrates three interrelated processes - cutting dissociation, creating embodied memory traces, and transforming positions within the abuse constellation - as a continuous, non-linear movement. Therapists' vocal presence functioned as a co-regulating holding field supporting clients' embodied reintegration. Vocal music therapy may ease dissociation, support embodied memory formation, and foster relational repair, while also carrying risks of retraumatization - emphasizing the need for specialized training, ethical sensitivity, and client-centered research.},
}

@article {pmid42615636,
year = {2026},
author = {Tak, N and Zawada, Z and Maluk, M and Beukes, C and Ketelboeter, L and Gehlot, HS and Gyaneshwar, P and James, EK},
title = {Comparative genomic analysis of North American Bradyrhizobium symbionts of Chamaecrista fasciculata (Caesalpinioideae) with related bradyrhizobia.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0079826},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.00798-26},
pmid = {42615636},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {The symbionts of Chamaecrista fasciculata, a caesalpinioid legume, were isolated from plants growing in native soil or by host trapping. To these, we added strains from the United States Department of Agriculture and strains isolated earlier from nodules of C. fasciculata and Chamaecrista nictitans. The phylogeny of 16 strains was determined by examining and comparing sequences of their rrs (16S rRNA) genes, the intergenic transcribed spacer region, two "core" housekeeping genes (recA and dnaK), and two symbiotic (nodA and nifH) genes. Seven strains were whole-genome sequenced and compared phylogenomically to related strains isolated from Caesalpinioideae nodules. All the symbionts belonged to Bradyrhizobium spp. dispersed in both Mega Clades-I and II, with some forming novel clusters and others sharing similarities with previously reported Chamaecrista symbionts. All strains nodulated and enhanced C. fasciculata growth in nitrogen-free axenic conditions. The draft genomes of seven Chamaecrista strains were sequenced, including four isolated from C. fasciculata in the United States (CFUW1, CFUSD1, CFUMN1, and USDA3010) and three from Brazil (JHI2701, JHI2711, and Cens1A). Comparative genomic analysis based on average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization suggested that six strains were closely related to Bradyrhizobium frederickii, Bradyrhizobium ferriligni, Bradyrhizobium elkanii, Bradyrhizobium australafricanum, "Bradyrhizobium brasilense," and Bradyrhizobium yuanmingense. Meanwhile, the C. fasciculata strain USDA3010 and the non-mimosoid Caesalpinioideae Dimorphandra wilsonii strain DW12.5 are potential new species.IMPORTANCEThe legume-rhizobium symbiosis is of immense economic and ecological importance, but most knowledge about its evolution and molecular biology has been obtained through the intense study of only two to three "model" species in the subfamily Papilionoideae, while nodulating symbioses in the sister subfamily, the Caesalpinioideae, which have a separate but parallel evolutionary history, are less well understood. Chamaecrista fasciculata appears to be exclusively nodulated by Bradyrhizobium, particularly Bradyrhizobium frederickii. We propose the symbiosis between C. fasciculata and B. frederickii CFUW1 as a model system to examine the parallel evolution (to the Papilionoideae) of symbiotic nodulation in the Caesalpinioideae.},
}

@article {pmid42617457,
year = {2026},
author = {Guo, H and Zhai, L and Yu, N and Wang, E},
title = {Cell cycle reprogramming in plant symbiotic and pathogenic interactions.},
journal = {Current opinion in plant biology},
volume = {93},
number = {},
pages = {102949},
doi = {10.1016/j.pbi.2026.102949},
pmid = {42617457},
issn = {1879-0356},
abstract = {Intracellular plant-microbe interactions rely on host-derived interface membranes: as sites for reciprocal nutrient and signal exchange during symbiosis, or as conduits for asymmetrical nutrient acquisition and effector delivery by pathogens. Sustaining these dynamic structures places substantial metabolic and vesicular trafficking demands on host cells. This review examines how cell cycle reprogramming may help plants meet these demands. During plant-pathogen interactions, biotrophic pathogens can reprogram host cell cycle pathways to establish metabolically favorable niches, whereas plant immunity can engage cell cycle checkpoints to restrict resource allocation and reinforce physical barriers. In arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis, localized endoreduplication in host cells could function as a "metabolic amplification program" to boost biosynthetic output, whereas host cells may adopt a "division-restricted state" that enables extensive intracellular remodeling while preserving the transcellular infection pathway. Root nodule symbiosis and mycorrhizal symbiosis share several cellular programs for microbial accommodation and the cell cycle could be further activated during symbiotic nodule development. Thus, we speculate that interface formation-during either symbiotic or pathogenic infection-may rely on a shared cellular toolkit that is potentially governed by distinct regulatory thresholds, tentatively suggesting the possibility of engineering cell cycle programs to improve symbiotic efficiency or enhance resistance against pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid42607884,
year = {2026},
author = {Ge, T and Yao, X and Li, Y and Wang, X and Li, S and Xie, F and Chen, Z and Guan, Y},
title = {GmNIGT2a/2b-mediated transcriptional cascade buffers high-nitrogen-triggered nodule senescence in soybean.},
journal = {Journal of genetics and genomics = Yi chuan xue bao},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jgg.2026.08.006},
pmid = {42607884},
issn = {1673-8527},
abstract = {Soil inorganic nitrogen (N) availability is a critical determinant of symbiotic nitrogen fixation efficiency, making it essential for legumes to respond appropriately and effectively to N fluctuations. Here, we identify a pair of high N response factors GmNIGT2a/2b (NITRATE-INDUCIBLE GARP-TYPE TRANSCRIPTIONAL REPRESSOR). GmNIGT2a/2b are activated by GmNLP4a/b (NIN-like proteins) under high N. The nodules of gmnigt2a/2b double mutants exhibit exacerbated reduction in nitrogenase activity and accelerated senescence in response to high N. Integration of RNA-seq and DAP-seq analyses reveals that GmNIGT2a/2b negatively regulate a suite of core N-induced genes, including NAC, WRKY, and bZIP transcription factors as well as trehalose metabolism genes. GmNIGT2b binds to the promoters of SNAP3 and NAC039 and represses their expression, thereby delaying nodule senescence. Our results suggest that GmNIGT2a/2b-mediated transcriptional regulation prevents excessive nodule senescence in response to high N, highlighting the complexity of transcriptional reprogramming for environmental adaptation in nodules.},
}

@article {pmid42608551,
year = {2026},
author = {Cazzaniga, SG and Lauber, T and van den Hoogen, J and Beaury, EM and Bueno, CG and Bever, JD and Damasceno, G and Catford, J and Lenoir, J and Martin, A and Mori, AS and Novakovskiy, A and Gutiérrez, AG and González-Robles, A and de Gasper, AL and Moles, A and Stanisci, A and Csecserits, A and Jentsch, A and Kuzemko, A and Perea, AJ and Nerlekar, A and Munje, A and Güler, B and Jiménez-Alfaro, B and Hérault, B and Pinho, BX and Baraloto, C and Rossi, C and Hending, D and Laughlin, DC and Rogers, D and Schellenberger Costa, D and Thakur, D and Uogintas, D and Chacón-Madrigal, E and Alvarez-Davila, E and Weiher, E and Thomas, E and Gonçalves, F and Rodrigues, F and Sabatini, FM and Schurr, FM and Essl, F and Zizka, G and Bonari, G and Swacha, G and Chen, HYH and Bruelheide, H and Ford, H and Wang, HF and Biurrun, I and Aubin, I and Dembicz, I and Willie, J and Altman, J and Svenning, JC and Lichstein, JW and Moeslund, JE and Dolezal, J and Cornelissen, JHC and Hunter, J and Messier, J and Dengler, J and Homeier, J and Orwin, KH and Korznikov, K and Van Meerbeek, K and Macía, MJ and Schmidt, M and Varricchione, M and Carlucci, MB and Spasojevic, M and Giorgis, MA and Chytrý, M and El-Sheikh, MA and Hatim, MZ and Kraft, NJB and Mohanbabu, N and Phillips, OL and Reich, PB and Pielech, R and Arasa-Gisbert, R and Guarino, R and Testolin, R and Tarifa, R and Mukul, SA and Phartyal, SS and Schmitt, S and Haider, S and Dziuba, T and Domingues, T and Liu, U and Golub, V and Silva, V and Fontana, V and Vandvik, V and Kissling, WD and Stančić, Z and Winter, M and Crowther, TW and Delavaux, CS},
title = {Mycorrhizal strategy of non-native plants varies with biome and disturbance.},
journal = {Nature ecology & evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42608551},
issn = {2397-334X},
support = {DFG FZT 118, 202548816//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; DNRF173//Danmarks Grundforskningsfond (Danish National Research Foundation)/ ; TMPFP3_209925//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung (Swiss National Science Foundation)/ ; },
abstract = {Predicting which non-native plant species will become established and where is critical for conserving and managing biodiversity. Theory suggests that the mycorrhizal strategy of non-native plants may predict their establishment success. Here we combine a global dataset of 440,788 vegetation plots with data on plant native status and mycorrhizal type to assess mycorrhizal strategy of non-native plants. The mycorrhizal strategy of non-native plants varies strongly across biomes. Across grassland and desert biomes, non-native species are more frequently non-mycorrhizal than native species, whereas in other biomes non-native species are more likely to be mycorrhizal, most commonly arbuscular-mycorrhizal. Disturbance type and intensity are key predictors of mycorrhizal strategy of non-native species, as mycorrhizal species are favoured by landscape modification and non-mycorrhizal species by natural and human-caused disturbance events. Facultatively mycorrhizal species are consistently under-represented among non-native plants compared with natives, suggesting that symbiotic flexibility does not confer an advantage for non-natives as previously expected. Our study shows that non-native mycorrhizal strategy varies across biogeographical contexts and disturbance, highlighting the need for region-specific prevention and management approaches to plant species introductions.},
}

@article {pmid42608964,
year = {2026},
author = {Hey, L and Chen, C and Xu, T and Cowell, E and Langlet, D and Methou, P},
title = {Widespread Association of Ciliates Colonizing Gills of Shrimps Inhabiting Vents and Seeps Across the Pacific Ocean.},
journal = {The Journal of eukaryotic microbiology},
volume = {73},
number = {5},
pages = {e70115},
doi = {10.1111/jeu.70115},
pmid = {42608964},
issn = {1550-7408},
support = {ANR-17-EURE-0015//ISblue project, Interdisciplinary Graduate School for the Blue Planet/ ; ANR-22-POCE-0007//National Research Agency/ ; 23K05942//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 16309324//General Research Funds (GRFs) & Collaborative Research Fund (CRF) of the Hong Kong SAR government/ ; 16100425//General Research Funds (GRFs) & Collaborative Research Fund (CRF) of the Hong Kong SAR government/ ; C2013-22G//General Research Funds (GRFs) & Collaborative Research Fund (CRF) of the Hong Kong SAR government/ ; CCRS25SC01//Otto Poon Center for Climate Resilience and Sustainability of The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology/ ; 2021HJ01//Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou)/ ; SMSEGL24SC01//Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou)/ ; YK23-16S//Cooperative Research Program of Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute/ ; SIP//Council for Science, Technology, and Innovation (CSTI), Japan/ ; FKt231024//Schmidt Ocean Institute/ ; NSF OCE 1635219//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Gills/parasitology ; Pacific Ocean ; *Ciliophora/classification/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology/ultrastructure ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; Symbiosis ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics/chemistry ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; },
abstract = {Bacterial symbiosis is well-documented in chemosynthesis-based ecosystems, but associations with microeukaryotes remain overlooked. In this study, using scanning electron microscopy and 18S rDNA barcoding, we investigate the presence, diversity, and biogeographic patterns of ciliate epibionts associated with two deep-sea caridean families: Alvinocarididae and Thoridae. We identified a widespread lineage of ciliates colonizing the gills of different alvinocaridid species, extending their previously known distribution in freshwater and coastal habitats to deep ocean down to 3388 m. These ciliates form a distinct clade related to coastal Chonotrichia, but show clear genetic divergence from the previously described species. Geographic divergence of these ciliate populations was observed across the Pacific Ocean, with no evident structure related to their host species. These chonotrichian ciliates exhibited variation in occurrence across host species, individuals, and regions, indicating a facultative association with their hosts. In contrast, the thorid shrimps harbored rare and phylogenetically diverse ciliates. More rarely, we found ciliates related to known parasitic lineages hosted by both shrimp families, with signs of immune response (black gills) in some individuals colonized by these ciliates. Our results reveal previously overlooked protist-crustacean associations in chemosynthetic ecosystems and highlight the ecological and biogeographic importance of this group in the deep ocean.},
}

Animals
*Gills/parasitology
Pacific Ocean
*Ciliophora/classification/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology/ultrastructure
Phylogeny
RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
Symbiosis
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
DNA, Ribosomal/genetics/chemistry
Sequence Analysis, DNA

@article {pmid42609619,
year = {2026},
author = {Everett, E and Gore, HM and Kallepalli, S and Duffield, KR and Flor-Weiler, L and Marino, J and Ramirez, JL},
title = {Cordyceps and Beauveria infections drive species-specific microbiome dysbiosis in the mosquito Aedes aegypti.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1879658},
pmid = {42609619},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {With the rising prevalence of vector-borne diseases and insecticide resistance in mosquitoes, alternative vector control strategies are urgently needed. Fungal entomopathogens offer a promising approach with a decreased likelihood of resistance development in mosquito populations. However, the mechanisms by which each fungus contributes to host mortality remain poorly understood, and the potential role of microbiome disruption as a secondary pathogenic mechanism has received limited attention. We evaluated the impact of four entomopathogenic fungal species (Beauveria bassiana, Cordyceps javanica, C. cateniannulata, and C. amoenerosea) on the microbiome of the yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti) colonized with a defined, field-derived bacterial community. Whole-body bacterial communities were profiled using high throughput 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, and community structure was assessed through alpha diversity metrics, beta diversity analysis, hierarchical clustering, and linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe). All four fungal species successfully infected the mosquito; however, their effects on the mosquito microbiome were species-specific. Cordyceps javanica and C. cateniannulata reduced community evenness without significantly affecting species richness, a pattern consistent with a dominance-driven dysbiosis rather than broad bacterial loss. Infections by C. amoenerosea significantly increased total bacterial load and drove strong enrichment of the opportunistic genus Pandoraea, suggesting epithelial disruption or immune dysregulation as possible contributing factors. Beta diversity analysis indicated partial community-level restructuring across all fungal infections. B. bassiana showed a distinct genus-level compositional response, with enrichment of core symbiotic taxa and depletion of Chryseobacterium and Kluyvera, which was different from the Enterobacteriaceae-dominated shifts seen across infections with Cordyceps species. LEfSe analysis identified Kluyvera and Burkholderia as the strongest genus-level discriminators of infection state, suggesting potential utility as microbiome-based indicators of successful fungal colonization. These key findings were independently validated using EdgeR and batch-corrected MaAsLin2 analyses, with Pandoraea enrichment under C. amoenerosea and Burkholderia depletion under C. cateniannulata confirmed by both methods. Taken together, these results show that entomopathogenic fungi restructure the Ae. aegypti microbiome in a species-specific manner, inducing community destabilization and opportunistic bacterial enrichment that likely contribute to the detrimental effects of fungal infection. These results provide a mechanistic insights for the selection and development of fungal biopesticides for mosquito control.},
}

@article {pmid42609926,
year = {2026},
author = {Avasiloaiei, DI and Calara, M and Brezeanu, PM and Burzo, I and Brezeanu, C},
title = {Crop wild relatives of legumes: evolutionary resources for climate-responsive pre-breeding.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1892793},
pmid = {42609926},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Legume crops are increasingly exposed to a combination of abiotic stresses - including drought, heat, salinity and flooding - alongside mounting biotic pressures from pathogens and insect pests. Historical domestication and modern breeding practices have substantially narrowed the genetic base of cultivated legumes, constraining their adaptive potential and limiting yield stability under fluctuating and extreme environments. Crop wild relatives (CWRs) represent a vital reservoir of genetic variation, providing alleles that enhance physiological resilience, reproductive stability, stress-responsive signaling and symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Across major and minor legumes such as chickpea, lentil, lupin, pea, soybean, cowpea and common bean, their CWRs harbor both single-trait and multifaceted adaptive mechanisms, including robust root systems, efficient water and nutrient use, early phenology and resistance to emerging pests and diseases. These wild gene pools maintain functional diversity lost during domestication and constitute essential evolutionary resources for sustaining legume productivity while buffering cropping systems against climate variability. Landraces complement CWRs by offering pre-adapted, locally optimized phenotypes, providing alleles suited to specific agro-ecological niches. The integration of CWRs and landraces into breeding pipelines allows the capture of both cryptic and novel alleles governing complex polygenic traits. Modern breeding innovations - including high-throughput phenotyping, multi-omics platforms, genomic selection and genome editing - have tremendously enhanced the ability to exploit this diversity systematically. By minimizing linkage drag and overcoming reproductive constraints, these technologies accelerate the development of climate-resilient cultivars. Harnessing the combined evolutionary potential of CWRs and landraces with contemporary breeding approaches enables legumes to achieve greater productivity, yield stability and nutritional quality under dynamic environmental conditions, thereby reinforcing their role in sustainable agriculture and global food security.},
}

@article {pmid42609940,
year = {2026},
author = {},
title = {Correction to: Intracellular vesicle-mediated biomineralization of arsenic and barium by a sponge symbiotic bacterium.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag224},
doi = {10.1093/ismeco/ycag224},
pmid = {42609940},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1093/ismeco/ycag039.].},
}

@article {pmid42610324,
year = {2026},
author = {Ege, YC and Foth, C and Richter, S},
title = {On Shell Closure and Beyond: Classification and Functional Interpretation of Chela Types in Paguroidea (Decapoda).},
journal = {Journal of morphology},
volume = {287},
number = {8},
pages = {e70161},
doi = {10.1002/jmor.70161},
pmid = {42610324},
issn = {1097-4687},
support = {DFG RI 837/24-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; DFG INST 264/130-1 FUGG//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; //Heisenberg-Programm 562995972/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Animal Shells/anatomy & histology/physiology ; Biological Evolution ; Phylogeny ; *Anomura/anatomy & histology ; X-Ray Microtomography ; *Decapoda/anatomy & histology/physiology/classification ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; },
abstract = {In Paguroidea, the chelae of the first thoracopods (chelipeds) encompass heterochelate (unequal), homoiochelate (subequal, weakly differentiated), and homochelate (equal, mirrored) conditions, reflecting functional differentiation and evolutionary adaptation across taxa. For 30 species from seven hermit crab families detailed 3D models of chelae were generated using microCT imaging. For these, 3D shape analysis identified six distinct shape types (I-compact, II- sturdy, III-elongate, IV-scutiform, V-discoid, VI-semidiscoid) across the investigated taxa. These shape types correspond closely with key biological roles. Paired semidiscoid chelae enable symmetrical shelter closure, while scutiform and discoid chelae function in one-sided shelter closure and defense and are associated with the utilization of gastropod shells. Compact and elongate chelae serve in food manipulation and grooming. Sturdy chelae, which include most homoiochelate forms, are associated with intermediate conditions related to alternative defensive strategies, such as complete (deep) withdrawal into shells, preference for shells with narrow apertures, or symbiotic relationships with anthozoans. Phylogenetic patterns might indicate that potentially basal taxa like Pylochelidae retain plesiomorphic, symmetrical semidiscoid chelae, but it cannot be excluded that these homochelate chelae represent an apomorphic condition for the taxon. In any case, the asymmetric hermit crabs (Parapaguridae, Paguridae, Diogenidae, Coenobitidae, Lithodidae) evolved pronounced heterochely, with the dominant chela adapted (primarily) for shelter closure and the subdominant one for feeding and grooming. Homoiochelate forms occur repeatedly across Diogenidae, suggesting multiple evolutionary transitions related to shifts in defensive strategy. The association between chela shape, biological role, and phylogeny highlights the dynamic interplay of evolutionary history, functional demands, and ecological adaptation in shaping hermit crab morphology.},
}

Animals
*Animal Shells/anatomy & histology/physiology
Biological Evolution
Phylogeny
*Anomura/anatomy & histology
X-Ray Microtomography
*Decapoda/anatomy & histology/physiology/classification
Imaging, Three-Dimensional

@article {pmid42611039,
year = {2026},
author = {Romero Picazo, D and Ripcke, K and Dagan, T},
title = {Diversity and Taxonomic Classification of Plasmids in Pantoea.},
journal = {Phytopathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1094/PHYTO-03-26-0098-IA},
pmid = {42611039},
issn = {0031-949X},
abstract = {Plasmids play a key role in prokaryotic evolution, as their acquisition can lead to the emergence of novel traits that confer adaptive advantages during niche colonization. Members of the genus Pantoea harbor diverse plasmids, many of which encode metabolic functions or mechanisms relevant for interactions with eukaryotic hosts, predominantly plants and insects. Several Pantoea plasmids have been characterized as domesticated, that is, vertically inherited similarly to chromosomes, whereas others are mobile or mobilizable. Although knowledge of Pantoea plasmid function and evolution is expanding, a general framework for their classification is still lacking. Here, we propose a framework for classifying Pantoea plasmids into plasmid taxonomic units (PTUs). This approach integrates phylogenetic analysis of plasmid backbone genes with gene content similarity. Using this framework, we recover previously described plasmid groups across broader species ranges and identify novel PTUs characterized by distinct functional traits. Our study establishes a unified framework for plasmid classification in Pantoea.},
}

@article {pmid42604383,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, G and Cheng, F and Qiao, Z and Ge, F and Bi, Y},
title = {Phycosphere microbiome contributes to ecological dominance of diatoms: a comparative study of Cyclotella atomus and Ulnaria ulna.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag211},
pmid = {42604383},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Diatoms play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, yet the mechanisms underlying their long-term dominance remain poorly understood. This study investigated the relationship between diatom ecological persistence and their phycosphere bacterial communities by comparing the long-term dominant species Cyclotella atomus with the short-term dominant species Ulnaria ulna. 16S rRNA gene sequencing combined with predictive functional profiling revealed that the bacterial community associated with C. atomus was more diverse, stable, and interconnected than that associated with U. ulna. Taxonomic analysis identified key bacterial taxa such as Gemmatimonas, Sphingobium, and Pseudorhodoferax enriched in C. atomus. Co-occurrence network analysis demonstrated higher microbial interaction complexity in C. atomus, enhancing functional redundancy and ecosystem stability. Functional predictions indicated significant enrichment in carbohydrate metabolism (glycosaminoglycan degradation, pentose/glucose interconversion) and stress response pathways (betaine biosynthesis, xenobiotic metabolism by cytochrome P450) in the C. atomus microbiome, supporting a mutualistic relationship in which diatom-derived extracellular polymeric substances sustains specialized bacteria that reciprocate with vitamin B12, phytohormones, and chemical defenses. Based on these results, a mutually reinforced symbiotic cycle model was proposed to illustrate how the diatom and its phycosphere microbiome established a resilient holobiont capable of prolonged ecological dominance. The bacterial community associated with each diatom species exhibited host specificity and contributed to the maintenance of host dominance. These findings highlight the critical role of microbial partnerships in diatom success, offering new insights for predicting phytoplankton community dynamics and managing aquatic ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid42603184,
year = {2026},
author = {Mapari, SV and Gaikwad, SB and Sutar, RR and Khare, R and Patil, RM and Behera, BC},
title = {Anticancer activity of lichen-derived compounds against triple-negative breast cancer: integrated in vitro evaluation, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and KEGG pathway analysis.},
journal = {Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42603184},
issn = {1432-1912},
abstract = {Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype that lacks ER, PR, and HER2, which results in limited treatment options and poor outcomes. Lichens are symbiotic organisms known for producing unique secondary metabolites and have a history of use in folk medicine. This study investigated the effects of lichen-derived compounds on MDA-MB-231 cells using integrated in vitro and in silico approaches to explore their anticancer potential and potential molecular targets. Six lichen compounds were isolated, characterized, and tested for antioxidant properties using DPPH and ABTS assays. In vitro cytotoxicity was evaluated on MDA-MB-231 using the MTT and FACS assays. ADMET was evaluated using SwissADME and ADMETLab3; GeneCards was used to retrieve the TNBC-associated genes. The STRING database is used to construct the protein-protein interaction network. Molecular docking analysis was done using CB Dock 2. Structural fluctuation was evaluated in CABS-flex 3.0 web server, and an open-source web-based platform, ShinyGO, was used for functional enrichment analysis. Out of six studied lichens, the extract of Everniastrum cirrhatum showed comparatively stronger antioxidant activity in terms of DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging potential. A decrease of up to 80% in cell viability at 320 µg/mL was observed when treated with Everniastrum cirrhatum, Heterodermia boryi, and Usnea longissima extracts. Six lichen compounds were isolated and characterized. ADMET analysis of isolated compounds suggests that they have acceptable drug-like characteristics with minimal major organ toxicity. The analysis of cytotoxicity using MTT and flow cytometry demonstrated a clear dose-dependent reduction in cell viability by atranorin (ATR), barbatic acid (BAR), and usnic acid (USN). Top 14 TNBC-associated hub genes were identified, and molecular docking analysis suggested that ATR and BAR have favorable binding affinities toward AKT1 and mTOR. RMSF analysis predicted reduced structural fluctuations in selected regions of AKT1 and mTOR following ligand binding, suggesting potential stabilization while preserving overall protein dynamics. KEGG pathway enrichment indicated that these hub genes are enriched in cancer-related pathways, including endometrial cancer and central carbon metabolism in cancer, and are associated with the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and RAS/MAPK signaling pathways. Lichen-derived compounds atranorin, barbatic acid, and usnic acid demonstrated anticancer activity in vitro, while integrated computational analyses suggested potential multitarget interactions that warrant further experimental validation.},
}

@article {pmid42603919,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Z and Tian, Y and Zhang, B and Zhu, K},
title = {Metabolic reprogramming in pancreatic cancer: interplay of glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism in tumor progression.},
journal = {Cytotechnology},
volume = {78},
number = {5},
pages = {179},
pmid = {42603919},
issn = {0920-9069},
abstract = {Pancreatic cancer is one of the most malignant solid tumors, with a five-year survival rate of less than 10%. The therapeutic challenges primarily stem from difficulties in early diagnosis, high heterogeneity, and extensive resistance to chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Recent studies have revealed that metabolic reprogramming, a core hallmark of cancer, is a key mechanism driving the malignant phenotype of pancreatic cancer, persisting throughout its initiation, progression, and development of treatment resistance. This article systematically reviews the molecular mechanisms underlying the dysregulation of three major nutrient metabolic pathways-glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism-and their interconnected regulatory networks. Regarding glucose metabolism, enhanced aerobic glycolysis and PPP activation collectively support tumor growth, redox maintenance, and microenvironmental remodeling, whereas lactate accumulation further contributes to immune evasion. Lipid metabolic reprogramming is characterized by coordinated alterations in de novo synthesis, fatty acid oxidation, and cholesterol homeostasis, which collectively regulate membrane remodeling, stemness maintenance, and therapeutic resistance. Amino acid metabolism is characterized by glutamine dependency and branched-chain amino acid metabolic reprogramming, which collectively support biosynthesis, redox homeostasis, and tumor adaptation. These three major metabolic pathways do not operate in isolation but form a dynamic, interconnected network. This network confers robust metabolic plasticity and adaptability to the tumor, constituting a fundamental basis for treatment resistance. Concurrently, stromal cells and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment also undergo metabolic reprogramming, forming a metabolic symbiotic system with cancer cells that further exacerbates treatment resistance. Although combination strategies targeting metabolic pathways-such as glycolysis inhibitors combined with gemcitabine, statins synergizing with chemotherapy, or metabolic interventions combined with immunotherapy-have shown promise in preclinical models, clinical translation remains challenging. These challenges arise from multiple factors, including tumor heterogeneity, metabolic compensation, drug delivery limitations, and the complexity of the tumor microenvironment. Future efforts should integrate single-cell metabolomics, organoid models, and multimodal imaging technologies to advance precision therapy based on metabolic subtyping. Additionally, the development of novel nanodelivery systems and multi-target combination regimens is needed to bridge the gap from mechanistic understanding to clinical application. Metabolic intervention holds potential not only for advanced-stage treatment but also for chemoprevention at the precancerous lesion stage, offering a novel approach to improving the prognosis of pancreatic cancer.},
}

@article {pmid42601014,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Z and Zhao, Y and Bi, B and Zhang, Y and Yang, H and Zhang, G and Zhang, J},
title = {Disruption of gut bacterial symbiont homeostasis in Streltzoviella insularis larvae under sublethal chlorantraniliprole exposure.},
journal = {Journal of insect physiology},
volume = {173},
number = {},
pages = {105048},
doi = {10.1016/j.jinsphys.2026.105048},
pmid = {42601014},
issn = {1879-1611},
abstract = {Chemical insecticides remain a cornerstone of contemporary integrated pest management (IPM). However, the toxicological profile of Streltzoviella insularis, an economically important wood-boring pest, remains insufficiently characterized. In this study, a laboratory rearing system for S. insularis was established using a customized artificial diet, providing a reliable platform for toxicological assays. Bioassays indicated that chlorantraniliprole (CAP) exhibited significantly higher insecticidal activity against fifth-instar larvae than the three other insecticides tested. Focusing on disruption of gut bacterial symbiont homeostasis as a mechanistic entry point, we investigated whether sublethal CAP exposure imposes fitness costs on S. insularis through perturbation of gut symbiotic communities. 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing revealed substantial restructuring of the larval bacterial community under sublethal CAP stress. The abundance of the core genus Enterococcus was significantly reduced, whereas Carnimonas and Levilactobacillus were significantly enriched. These three taxa came to dominate the reshaped gut microbiota, suggesting a potential compensatory functional shift following depletion of core symbionts. Activities of key digestive enzymes, including α-amylase, lipase, and trypsin, were significantly reduced. Substantial fitness costs were observed, including reduced larval and pupal weights, prolonged larval development time, and decreased pupation success, adult emergence, egg hatching, and female fecundity. Collectively, these findings suggest that sublethal CAP exposure is closely associated with gut symbiont dysbiosis in S. insularis, accompanied by impaired digestive function and delayed larval growth and development.},
}

@article {pmid42602462,
year = {2026},
author = {Bhattacharjee, S and Mukhopadhyay, A},
title = {From cooperation to collapse: the diet-microbiota-host gene triad in disease and aging.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {1872481},
pmid = {42602462},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {Symbiotic relationships are the basis of biological complexity. It can be traced back from ancient mitochondrial acquisition to modern host-microbiota interactions. In this review, we explore aging and disease susceptibility through the lens of a diet-microbiota-host gene triad, a dynamic symbiotic network in which dietary inputs, the gut microbiota, and the host genome co-regulate physiological equilibrium. The symbiotic triad evolved as nutrition was outsourced, with dietary and microbial components internalized by the host. Dietary components modulate microbial composition and metabolic activity. In contrast, microbial fermentation of nutrients produces short-chain fatty acids, vitamins, bile acids, and neuroactive compounds, which, in turn, influence host gene expression, immune responses, barrier integrity, nutrient preferences, and health. Host genes have also co-evolved as critical modulators of this triad, encoding nutrient sensors, immune effectors, and proteins that maintain microbial balance and prevent dysbiosis. Polymorphisms in key metabolic and immune genes fine-tune responses to dietary and microbial adaptations, building resilience across different contexts. As organisms age, this triadic equilibrium destabilizes, leading to reduced microbial diversity, compromised barrier integrity and function, and chronic inflammation that accelerates age-related pathologies. Therefore, understanding dietary, microbial, and genetic interdependencies and viewing aging and disease from this perspective offers a blueprint for developing personalized nutrition- and microbiome-targeted therapies to combat age-associated diseases and promote health and longevity.},
}

@article {pmid42602867,
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 = {Correction: Moderate organic-inorganic fertilization optimizes soybean productivity by reshaping rhizosphere microbiome-metabolite networks.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1902091},
doi = {10.3389/fpls.2026.1902091},
pmid = {42602867},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2026.1823609.].},
}

@article {pmid42594987,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, Z and Gong, H and Huang, Y and Wang, Y and Li, C and Yan, M},
title = {Toxicity differences of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) and polylactic acid nanoplastics (PLA-NPs) on the Paramecium bursaria - Chlorella symbiotic system.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {408},
number = {},
pages = {128954},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128954},
pmid = {42594987},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {Biodegradable plastics are often presumed to pose lower biological risks, yet their nanoparticulate forms may not follow this assumption. This study compared the 24-h acute toxicity and associated biological responses of conventional polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) and biodegradable polylactic acid nanoplastics (PLA-NPs) using the Paramecium bursaria-Chlorella symbiotic system. The 24-h median lethal concentrations (LC50) were 27.41 mg/L for PS-NPs and 5.55 mg/L for PLA-NPs, indicating greater acute lethal toxicity of PLA-NPs under the tested conditions. After exposure and washing, pronounced NP-associated fluorescence was detected for both NP types. Both materials produced concentration-related increases in ROS-associated fluorescence and MDA content, together with concentration-specific changes in SOD and CAT activities. TEM observations revealed ultrastructural alterations in mitochondria, the pellicle, nucleoli, digestive vacuoles, and symbiotic Chlorella. NP exposure also altered chlorophyll a and carotenoid contents, indicating disruption of photosynthetic pigment homeostasis. RT-qPCR further showed concentration-specific expression changes in selected genes associated with photosynthesis, antioxidant defense, proteostasis, mitochondrial respiration, and vesicular transport. Overall, PLA-NPs exhibited greater acute lethal toxicity than PS-NPs during short-term exposure. These findings demonstrate that biodegradability does not necessarily correspond to lower biological toxicity when polymers occur in nanoparticulate form and highlight the need to consider nano-specific effects in the environmental safety assessment of biodegradable plastics.},
}

@article {pmid42596090,
year = {2026},
author = {Bouzembila, S and Charaabi, K and Hamden, H and Fadhel, S and Tanfouri, N and Guerfali, MM},
title = {Beyond a dual role: how Purpureocillium lilacinum reprograms citrus metabolism for integrated biocontrol and growth promotion.},
journal = {Journal of the science of food and agriculture},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jsfa.70954},
pmid = {42596090},
issn = {1097-0010},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Plants harbor complex microbial communities that are fundamental to their health and productivity. Among them, endophytic fungi such as Purpureocillium lilacinum establish mutualistic associations, offering dual benefits as plant growth promoters and biocontrol agents. However, the potential of this fungus in citrus cultivation and the metabolic dynamics of its interaction with citrus hosts remain unexplored. This study employed an integrated dual metabolomics approach to investigate the symbiosis between P. lilacinum and Citrus aurantium. It was hypothesized that the fungus would enhance plant performance through its own bioactive metabolites, and also by systemically reprogramming the host metabolism. To test this hypothesis, the in vitro fungal metabolome was characterized, plant growth promotion was evaluated in vivo, and metabolomic shifts in host tissues were analyzed.

RESULTS: The results reveal a multilayered mode of action. Purpureocillium lilacinum stimulated plant growth directly through nutrient solubilization and phytohormone modulation. Concurrently, the fungus engaged in active metabolic cross-talk with the host, reprogramming primary metabolism, as exemplified by the spatial redistribution of amino acids like proline and arginine, and activating secondary defense pathways. The fungal metabolome also revealed a direct biocontrol arsenal, including insect-modulating acetophenone and the insecticidal alkaloid arecoline, underscoring its capacity for immediate antagonism.

CONCLUSION: These findings provide novel insights into the biochemical mechanisms underlying P. lilacinum-citrus interactions. They confirm the role of the fungus in orchestrating a synergized growth-and-defense response in citrus, highlighting its strong potential as a sustainable, multi-functional bioinoculant for citrus production systems. © 2026 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid42596721,
year = {2026},
author = {Cantera, I and Marta, S and Carteron, A and Guerrieri, A and Giachello, S and Bonin, A and Ambrosini, R and Azzoni, RS and Caccianiga, M and Pittino, F and Simonicini, A and Valle, B and Gobbi, M and Ficetola, GF},
title = {The Biodiversity of Retreating Glaciers Leaves an Ecological Legacy in Emerging Soil Communities.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {32},
number = {8},
pages = {e71040},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.71040},
pmid = {42596721},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {772284/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; 101052342//Biodiversa+/ ; },
mesh = {*Biodiversity ; *Ice Cover/microbiology ; *Soil Microbiology ; Animals ; Soil ; Argentina ; Bacteria/classification ; Fungi ; Ecosystem ; DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic ; },
abstract = {Glacier retreat is transforming high-mountain and polar landscapes, replacing ice with vast, newly exposed terrains where soil development and ecological succession start. Although ecosystems developing in deglaciated terrains are often viewed as starting from scratch, glaciers host diverse communities whose links with emerging soils remain unquantified. Using environmental DNA metabarcoding, we provide the first multi-taxa assessment of biodiversity transitions across the supraglacial-proglacial interface across five glacier systems in Svalbard, the Alps and Patagonia. We analysed 212 samples from the surfaces of retreating glaciers and their forelands, spanning a chronosequence from 1 to 483 years since deglaciation. Recently deglaciated soils (≤ 10 years since glacier retreat) showed taxonomic and functional similarity to supraglacial communities. This ecological continuity was highly taxon-specific, being pronounced for communities of microorganisms (Bacteria, Fungi, Protista) but weak for animals (e.g., Collembola, Insecta). For microbes, similarity diminished rapidly over succession as community turnover increased, and functional composition shifted from phototrophic and saprotrophic dominance toward heterotrophic and symbiotic assemblages. Shared microbial taxa and functions indicate a transient glacial influence during early soil succession. Our results suggest that early soil communities are not assembled independently of glacier ecosystems, but are initially linked to them through diverse ecological pathways that diminish over time. The observed glacier-proglacial connectivity challenges the view of succession on deglaciated terrains as beginning on lifeless substrates and instead points to a glacial legacy in emerging soils. As glaciers rapidly disappear under climate change, the unique biodiversity they host is also being lost, underscoring the urgent need to study supraglacial and proglacial systems together. Such integration is essential to understand ecological succession in proglacial ecosystems, which are expected to play an increasingly important role in this century.},
}

*Biodiversity
*Ice Cover/microbiology
*Soil Microbiology
Animals
Soil
Argentina
Bacteria/classification
Fungi
Ecosystem
DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic

@article {pmid42597203,
year = {2026},
author = {Krumsvik, RJ and Slettvoll, V},
title = {Symbiotic AI and equitable digital health: toward trustworthy and inclusive health ecosystems.},
journal = {Frontiers in digital health},
volume = {8},
number = {},
pages = {1885289},
pmid = {42597203},
issn = {2673-253X},
abstract = {Digital health has accelerated rapidly through advances in telemedicine, wearable technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), remote monitoring, and interoperable healthcare infrastructures. Despite these developments, substantial inequities persist among underserved populations, including rural and remote communities, older adults, low-socioeconomic groups, and geographically isolated populations exposed to infrastructure disruptions caused by avalanches, landslides, storms, flooding, or prolonged power outages. Current digital health approaches frequently emphasize technological innovation and connectivity while underestimating the importance of trust, contextual adaptation, resilience, health literacy, and human guidance. This Perspective argues that equitable digital health requires a shift from isolated AI tools in primary health services toward resilient symbiotic health ecosystems in which clinicians, patients, caregivers, communities, and AI systems collaboratively support healthcare delivery. Building on emerging research on symbiotic intelligence, health empowerment, telemedicine, rural resilience, and trustworthy AI, we propose a conceptual perspective in which calibrated human-AI collaboration becomes central to equitable healthcare delivery. The article discusses how resilient and locally adaptive infrastructures-including telemedicine, wearable monitoring, low-risk diagnostic technologies, local AI systems, backup energy systems, drones for medicine delivery, local Wi-Fi preparedness, and community-supported transport models-may strengthen healthcare preparedness and continuity in underserved and disrupted contexts. Although several examples are drawn from Norway and rural Nordic contexts, the conceptual framework is intended to be transferable to underserved populations globally. Finally, this Perspective highlights the need for implementation-oriented, equity-centered, and epistemically transparent approaches to future digital health ecosystems, exemplified through five models.},
}

@article {pmid42598024,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, J and Pan, A and Song, Z and Liu, X and Zhang, J and Zhang, G},
title = {Adaptation mechanisms of low-phosphorus stress in plants: physiological responses, molecular regulation, and future perspectives.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1877859},
pmid = {42598024},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Phosphorus (P) is essential for plant growth and development. Although soils contain abundant total P, about 70% of global arable land is deficient in available inorganic phosphate (Pi), severely restricting sustainable agricultural production. To date, numerous physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying plant adaptation to low-Pi stress have been elucidated. In this review, we provide an overview of recent advances in plant adaptation to low-Pi stress at both the physiological and molecular levels, including root plasticity and hormonal regulation, root exudate-mediated Pi acquisition, metabolic adaptation such as sugar metabolism, membrane lipid remodeling, and secondary metabolite accumulation, as well as arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis. Furthermore, we summarize the molecular regulatory networks governing plant responses to low-Pi stress, covering phosphate transporters, SPX-PHR signaling, transcription factors, non-coding RNAs, and epigenetic modifications. The interaction between low-Pi signaling and other signaling pathways is also discussed. This review synthesizes recent advances in adaptive mechanisms across multiple regulatory levels and discusses strategies for breeding P-efficient crops to support sustainable agriculture.},
}

@article {pmid42599078,
year = {2026},
author = {Battaje, RR and Skalenko, KS and Han, A and Abdujabbarova, K and Boyd, JM and Carabetta, VJ and Yang, JH and Yadavalli, SS},
title = {Microbiome symbiosis, host-pathogen dynamics, and the search for new therapeutics: highlights from the Theobald Smith Society Spring 2026 Symposium.},
journal = {mSphere},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0036626},
doi = {10.1128/msphere.00366-26},
pmid = {42599078},
issn = {2379-5042},
abstract = {The annual Theobald Smith Society (TSS) spring meeting was convened at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, on 8 May 2026. TSS is the New Jersey branch of ASM and holds two annual meetings, in the fall and spring. These meetings bring together microbiologists, trainees at all levels, and professionals from both academia and industry to share their research, to network, and to engage in discussions on a wide array of topics that fall under ASM's three main units: health, mechanism discovery, and applied and environmental microbiology. The TSS spring meeting brought together more than 140 attendees from institutions across New Jersey. This report highlights the vision and work of TSS and ASM, the breadth of research presented at the meeting through invited talks and posters, and the two keynote lectures on nutritional immunity and the modern decline of human microbiome diversity.},
}