@article {pmid42603875,
year = {2026},
author = {Getachew, T and Birri, DJ and Ashenafi, M and Tigu, F and Bez, C and Bertani, I and Venturi, V and Desalegn, A},
title = {The bacterial microbiota of the spontaneously fermented Ethiopian honey wine, Tej.},
journal = {Journal of food science and technology},
volume = {63},
number = {9},
pages = {1691-1699},
pmid = {42603875},
issn = {0022-1155},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: The honey wine (Tej) is the most widely consumed traditionally fermented alcoholic beverage in Ethiopia. Different classes of microorganisms including lactic acid bacteria and yeasts have been reported to be involved in its fermentation. The microbial composition of Tej differs based on the raw materials and additives used by the producers. The purpose of this study was to assess the bacterial composition and diversity of Tej . Six Tej samples were collected from small-scale and household Tej producers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and bacterial diversity was analyzed by 16S rRNA amplicon library sequencing. From the examined samples, 68.5% of the sampled Tej had a pH value of ≤ 3.8. The titratable acidity ranged from 0.4 ± 0.1 to 1.2 ± 0.4, with a significant difference observed at p-value = 0.001. The alcohol content (%, v/v) varied between 10.1 ± 0.7 and 12.0 ± 0.9. Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were the two most predominant taxa, with Firmicutes dominating 99.9% of the three Tej samples and being the second most prevalent taxon in the other two samples. The two dominant genera identified were Lactobacillus and Zymomonas. These findings revealed the importance of evaluating the role of different consortia of microorganisms in the production of Tej and assessing its quality.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13197-025-06372-2.},
}

@article {pmid42603897,
year = {2026},
author = {Tran, V and Lee, C},
title = {Concurrent Acute Pyelonephritis in a Mother-Infant Dyad: A Case Report.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {e112745},
pmid = {42603897},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Acute pyelonephritis is an infection of the kidney that affects both adult and pediatric populations. We describe the case of a 31-year-old mother and her infant boy diagnosed with pyelonephritis due to the same organism. Both patients harbored risk factors that increased their susceptibility to infection; however, more importantly, maternal-to-neonatal transmission of microbiota is thought to play a large role in the neonate's infection. This case highlights the importance of and the clinical implications of maternal and neonatal microbiomes.},
}

@article {pmid42603926,
year = {2026},
author = {Vazirzadeh, M and Vatankha, ML and Morales, MA and Zaman, MS and Tamayo, EJS and Kelly, KJ},
title = {Camel milk-based probiotics: functional properties, gut health benefits, and emerging implications for the gut-brain axis-a comprehensive review.},
journal = {Journal of food science and technology},
volume = {63},
number = {9},
pages = {1648-1663},
pmid = {42603926},
issn = {0022-1155},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Camel milk is gaining scientific interest for its unique composition, including bioactive proteins, high antimicrobial peptides (lactoferrin, lysozyme), immunomodulatory components, and lower allergenic potential compared to bovine milk, positioning it as a promising matrix for probiotic delivery. Probiotics support gut homeostasis and may influence the gut-brain axis via microbial metabolites (SCFAs, GABA), immune modulation, and neuroactive compound production. This review critically assesses current evidence on camel milk-based probiotics, emphasizing functional properties, effects on gut microbiota, gastrointestinal benefits, and emerging implications for the gut-brain axis (inflammation reduction, metabolic signaling, neurotransmitter pathways). Drawing from in vitro studies, animal models (e.g., colitis, EAE, diabetes), and limited human trials, we evaluate translational relevance. Preliminary findings suggest benefits in gut health, microbiota modulation, and potential neuroprotection, but strain specificity, mechanistic details, and robust clinical efficacy remain limited. Significant knowledge gaps persist regarding optimal strains, dosing, and long-term effects. Rigorous, well-designed preclinical and clinical studies are essential to validate health claims and support development of camel milk-based functional products targeting gut and potential neurological health.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: The graphical abstract illustrates camel milk-derived probiotics as modulators of the gut-brain axis through interconnected pathways. Central mechanisms include microbiota modulation, synthesis of neuroactive compounds (SCFAs, GABA, neurotransmitters), immune regulation, and anti-inflammatory effects. Bidirectional communication between gut and brain occurs via neural, endocrine, and metabolic routes, with potential therapeutic applications for mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13197-026-06765-x.},
}

@article {pmid42604017,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, Y and Xie, L and Li, S and Ye, J and Zhu, Z and Zhang, Y and Chen, F},
title = {Ecosystem settings and urbanization shape microbial communities and antibiotic resistance genes on coastal microplastics.},
journal = {Current research in microbial sciences},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100655},
pmid = {42604017},
issn = {2666-5174},
abstract = {Coastal wetlands are increasingly contaminated by microplastics that provide long-lived substrates for microbial colonization, yet the joint effects of ecosystem settings and urbanization on plastisphere communities and their resistomes remain poorly understood. Here, we used a 2 × 2 factorial design across mangrove and sandy-beach sediments under rural and urban influence, combined with metagenomic profiling, to characterize microplastic-associated microbiota and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Microbial communities on microplastics showed clear separation between mangroves and sandy shores, with additional shifts along the rural-urban gradient, indicating context-dependent plastisphere assembly. Urbanization substantially increased richness in mangrove plastispheres, whereas effects on sandy beaches were weak or inconsistent and largely confined to low-abundance taxa. In situ exposure yielded a diverse ARG repertoire (>1 000 ARGs), and ARG composition showed significant ecosystem × human-impact interactions, with urban mangrove microplastics hosting the highest ARG diversity. Genus-ARG co-occurrence networks showed denser bacteria-ARG association patterns in mangrove than in sandy-beach plastispheres, with a limited number of genera statistically associated with multiple ARGs. These results suggest that plastisphere communities and resistomes varied across ecosystem settings and urbanization contexts, with urban mangrove microplastics showing relatively higher ARG diversity and stronger bacteria-ARG co-occurrence patterns. These findings highlight the need for habitat-specific monitoring of microplastic-associated resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42604251,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, B and Jiang, X and Zhao, H and Wang, B},
title = {BileActome reveals community-assembled bile acid metabolism in the rumen microbiome.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag205},
pmid = {42604251},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Microbial bile acid metabolism is an important link between microbiomes and host physiology, but its genetic basis remains difficult to resolve from genome and metagenome data. This is largely because existing annotation resources are not designed for the high sequence diversity and functional complexity of microbial bile acid genes. Here we present BileActome, a reusable annotation resource developed specifically for microbial bile acid metabolism. BileActome defines 27 experimentally supported gene families, including bile salt hydrolases, bile acid-inducible operon genes, and microbial hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. Its design prioritizes experimentally supported functional sites when available and conserved domain features otherwise, while also distinguishing key functional subtypes. We applied BileActome to 1693 high-quality rumen metagenome-assembled and isolate genomes and validated its performance using controlled in vitro rumen fermentations under three bile acid interventions. In metagenomic gene-catalog analyses, BileActome enabled pathway-level interpretation of microbial responses to bile acid exposure, with the most reproducible responses centered on Bai-associated gene families. At genome scale, it generated a phylogeny-informed map of bile acid metabolic potential that was broader and more informative than Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG)-based annotation. Further analyses of genomes, local gene organization, and genome-level guilds showed that bile acid metabolism in the rumen is modular, phylogenetically structured, and distributed across different microbial members. Deconjugation and oxidation/epimerization-related functions were widespread, whereas complete bile acid-inducible systems were less common. Together, these findings support a community-assembled model of bile acid metabolism and establish BileActome as an open and reproducible framework for studying specialized microbial functions in complex ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid42604380,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, D and Wang, H and Groß, V and Burns, A and Urich, T},
title = {Summer drought impacts micropredator abundance and microbial food web structure in a rewetted fen peatland.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag169},
pmid = {42604380},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Summer drought significantly affects soil microbiome diversity and functioning, and metabolic interactions in wetland ecosystems, yet its effects on the microbial food web are less understood. We investigated the dynamics of bacterivorous microorganisms and prey bacteria (PBac) in a rewetted fen peatland before, during, and after a summer drought using small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene sequencing and quantitative metatranscriptomics. We identified bacterivores including bacteria (e.g. Myxobacteria), protists, and nematodes, as well as Ca. Patescibacteria and Diapherotrites, Parvarchaeota, Aenigmarchaeota, Nanoarchaeota, and Nanohaloarchaeota archaea (PD) having a host-dependent lifestyle. In addition, bacteriophage transcripts were enumerated. The summer drought increased the diversity of bacterivorous protists (BPro) and bacteria (BBac) in the fen, along with decreases in the water level and increases in redox potential. The SSU rRNA transcripts abundance for all bacterivores (with the exception of the PD) increased during the drought, reaching a peak in October. The transcript abundance of all bacterivores remained above predrought level for at least four months after the drought ended. This became more evident when assessing the bacterivore-to-prey-bacteria ratios, with the ratios of aerobic BBac, BPro, and nematode to PBac increasing by more than two-fold compared to predrought. In contrast, the PD and bacteriophage-to-prey ratios remained rather stable. This study provides a holistic view of the diversity and composition of bacterivores in a fen peat microbiome, including the PD and bacteriophages, and suggests a long-lasting impact of summer drought on bacterivore and food web dynamics. The strong responses of aerobic bacterivores may lead to changes in ecosystem functioning through modulated trophic interactions in a changing climate.},
}

@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 {pmid42604542,
year = {2026},
author = {Sepúlveda, AMG and da Conceição Jesus, E and Molina, YC and Buttrós, VH and Carvalho, LQ and Pasqual, M and Dória, J},
title = {Strawberry micropropagation simplifies endomicrobiome and highlights potential for in vitro biotization with beneficial rhizobacteria.},
journal = {Plant biology (Stuttgart, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/plb.70278},
pmid = {42604542},
issn = {1438-8677},
support = {//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; //Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; //Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais/ ; },
abstract = {Strawberry micropropagation produces uniform, disease-free planting material. However, repeated in vitro subculturing can simplify the endophytic microbiome, reducing plant vigour and acclimatization success. This study investigated the impact of successive in vitro generations on the endomicrobiome of Fragaria × ananassa cv. San Andreas and determined if targeted biotization with beneficial rhizobacteria can enhance plant performance. Profiled endophytic bacterial and fungal communities were analysed in the mother plant and across three in vitro generations using amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene and ITS markers. Ten plant growth-promoting bacterial strains were tested in vitro. The most effective strains were combined into consortia, and their impact on growth, survival and phenolic and flavonoid accumulation was assessed under in vitro and ex vitro acclimatization conditions. Successive subcultures simplified the endophytic assemblage. The mother plant exhibited substantially higher bacterial alpha-diversity than in vitro generations, with richness and Shannon diversity declining significantly (P <0.001) across all subcultures. In vitro biotization with A. brasilense Ab-V5 and A. brasilense Ab-V6 increased total dry biomass from 190.63 mg in the control to 216.75 mg and 209.11 mg, respectively. Under ex vitro conditions, several inoculated treatments achieved 100% survival compared with 75% in the non-inoculated control. Prolonged in vitro maintenance reduces the complexity of the strawberry endomicrobiome by imposing a selective bottleneck. Targeted introduction of beneficial bacteria partially compensates by enhancing growth, survival and secondary metabolite accumulation, supporting microbiome-assisted strategies to improve tissue culture performance and ex vitro establishment.},
}

@article {pmid42604698,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, Y and Zhang, L and Li, Q and Wang, H and Shi, H and Zhao, Y and Xiao, X and Zhang, Y},
title = {Prenatal Exposure to Organophosphate Esters and Infantile Neurobehavior: Integrating the Gut Microbiome and Metabolome.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {125494},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2026.125494},
pmid = {42604698},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Organophosphate esters (OPEs) are widely used flame retardants and plasticizers. Given their structural similarity to neurotoxic organophosphorus pesticides, concerns have been raised regarding their potential developmental neurotoxicity. However, epidemiologic evidence remains limited, and the roles of gut microbial and metabolic perturbations in these associations are not well characterized. We analyzed 404 mother-child pairs from the Shanghai Maternal-Child Pairs Cohort. OPE concentrations were quantified in cord serum. Meconium samples were profiled for gut microbiota and metabolomics, and behavioral development at 2 years was assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Generalized linear models, negative-binomial hurdle regression, SHapley Additive exPlanations, high-dimensional mediation analysis, metabolome-wide association analysis, meet-in-the-middle analysis, and pathway enrichment analysis were applied. A doubling of cord serum tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBEP) concentration was associated with a 0.09-point increase in the conduct problem score at age 2 years (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.02, 0.16). A doubling of TBEP concentration was also associated with 7.9% higher Chao1 richness (95% CI: 2.8%, 14.1%) and 8.7% higher ACE richness (95% CI: 3.5%, 14.1%). A doubling of Chao1 and ACE richness was associated with 0.27-point (95% CI: 0.12, 0.42) and 0.31-point (95% CI: 0.15, 0.46) increases in conduct problem scores, respectively. Alpha diversity indices and Collinsella were identified as potential mediators of the TBEP-conduct problem association. Integrated metabolomic analyses further implicated five pathways, particularly catecholamine biosynthesis and tyrosine metabolism. Enrichment scores for these pathways were positively associated with Chao1, ACE, and Collinsella. Prenatal TBEP exposure was associated with greater behavioral problems in early childhood. Altered neonatal gut microbiota and related metabolic pathways may partly underlie this association.},
}

@article {pmid42604878,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, F and Tian, L and Xia, Y and Ye, C and Wu, H and Wang, H and Wang, Y and Guo, S and Guo, N and Yang, J and Sun, J and Li, Y and Tao, Z and Xiong, X and Huang, X and Xu, T and Liu, X and Shang, Y and Guo, Y},
title = {Geographical distribution and seasonality of insect species and gut microbiota of fly larvae from 65 real cases in China.},
journal = {International journal of legal medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42604878},
issn = {1437-1596},
support = {82402196//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82572150//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024JJ6546//Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province/ ; },
abstract = {Forensic entomology can be pivotal for minimum postmortem interval (PMImin) estimation. Case-based studies can support forensic investigations and guide laboratory research, but systematic data from real cases in China remain limited. In this study, 65 forensic entomology cases collected from 2017 to 2024 in two regions of China, Beijing and Hunan, were analyzed to characterize necrophagous insect occurrence patterns and larval gut microbiota. A total of 30 colonizing insect species from 11 families were identified. Lucilia sericata, Chrysomya megacephala, and Sarcophaga crassipalpis were the most frequently recorded species. Diptera, especially Calliphoridae and Sarcophagidae, were mainly associated with shorter postmortem intervals, whereas coleopteran taxa were more often observed in longer-interval cases. In addition, insect occurrence showed clear geographical distribution and seasonality: L. sericata and S. crassipalpis predominated in Beijing cases, whereas C. megacephala and Sarcophaga peregrina were more frequent in Hunan cases. Overall species diversity was highest in summer, whereas only Calliphora vicina and Aldrichina grahami were observed in winter. 16S rRNA gene sequencing of larval gut microbiota revealed a stable core microbiome across diverse cases and species, including Ignatzschineria, Clostridium, Peptostreptococcus, Vagococcus, and Peptoniphilus. This study provides regional forensic entomology reference data and characterizes the gut microbiota of fly larvae collected directly from human remains in police casework, offering a useful basis for future forensic investigations and laboratory studies.},
}

@article {pmid42604919,
year = {2026},
author = {Shi, C and Zhang, H and Liu, Y and Zhou, G and Zhou, Y and Yan, Y and Huang, X and Yang, X and Chen, L and Lü, F},
title = {Tobacco intercropping with Allium crops reshapes soil microbiome-metabolome interactions and improves plant health and tobacco leaf quality.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42604919},
issn = {1471-2229},
support = {32160517//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2021XM15//he Key R&D Project of Guizhou Tobacco Company/ ; },
mesh = {*Nicotiana/growth & development/physiology/metabolism/microbiology ; *Plant Leaves/physiology/metabolism ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Microbiota ; *Metabolome ; *Allium/growth & development ; Plant Diseases/virology ; *Crop Production/methods ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Intercropping systems play important roles in improving soil conditions, enhancing crop performance and suppressing soil-borne diseases. However, the mechanisms by which tobacco-Allium intercropping regulates soil microecology, tobacco growth and leaf quality remain insufficiently understood. In this study, tobacco monoculture and tobacco intercropping systems with onion, garlic or Chinese chive were established to evaluate tobacco agronomic traits, disease occurrence, cured leaf chemical composition and defence-related enzyme activities. Soil physicochemical properties, microbial community structure and metabolomic profiles were further analysed and integrated using a multi-omics approach.

RESULTS: Compared with tobacco monoculture, the tobacco-garlic intercropping treatment (CG) showed the most pronounced effects. CG alleviated soil acidification and increased the contents of available phosphorus and available potassium. The incidence and disease index of tobacco mosaic virus disease (TMVD) were significantly reduced by 27.91% and 31.77%, respectively. CG also significantly improved tobacco agronomic traits and enhanced the activities of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) by 146.50%, 162.65% and 248.87%, respectively. In cured tobacco leaves, total nitrogen, nicotine and reducing sugar contents increased by 20.57%, 28.22% and 10.49%, respectively. In addition, CG significantly increased potassium content and improved the potassium-to-chloride ratio by 55.46%. Correlation analysis showed that intercropping promoted the enrichment of beneficial bacterial genera, including Gemmatimonas and Sphingomonas, and enhanced functional pathways associated with linoleic acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, purine metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, and the biosynthesis of antibiotics and other secondary metabolites.

CONCLUSIONS: Tobacco-Allium intercropping, especially tobacco-garlic intercropping, improved tobacco growth and cured leaf chemical quality and reduced field TMVD occurrence. These effects were associated with changes in rhizosphere soil properties, microbial communities and metabolites.},
}

*Nicotiana/growth & development/physiology/metabolism/microbiology
*Plant Leaves/physiology/metabolism
*Soil Microbiology
*Microbiota
*Metabolome
*Allium/growth & development
Plant Diseases/virology
*Crop Production/methods

@article {pmid42605004,
year = {2026},
author = {Umashankar, B and Pankonien, I and Amaral, M and Ooi, CY and Jardé, T and Waters, SA},
title = {Cystic Fibrosis and Colorectal Cancer Risk: Reprogramming of the Intestinal Epithelial Niche and Cell-State Plasticity in the CFTR Modulator Era.},
journal = {Cell proliferation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70272},
doi = {10.1111/cpr.70272},
pmid = {42605004},
issn = {1365-2184},
support = {NHMRC_APP1188987//National Health and Medical Research Council/ ; //Sydney Children Hospital Network Foundation/ ; //Luminesce Alliance Research/ ; },
abstract = {Cystic fibrosis (CF) has shifted from a fatal paediatric lung disease to a multi-organ, lifespan-spanning disorder in which gastrointestinal (GI) complications and malignancies are increasingly prominent. With improved survival into mid- and late adulthood, aided by newborn screening, optimised nutrition and the advent of highly effective CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators, implementation of colonoscopic surveillance has highlighted a several-fold increase in early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC) and a broader spectrum of intestinal pathology. In parallel, work in mouse models, human tissue and patient-derived intestinal organoids now places the CFTR at the centre of a complex epithelial compartment that integrates ion and pH homeostasis, mucus biology, microbiota, redox balance and immune/stromal function. In this review, we advance the hypothesis that CF may be conceptualised as a niche-centric hereditary CRC predisposition syndrome, in which germline CFTR dysfunction chronically destabilises epithelial identity in addition to increasing mutational burden. We synthesise evidence that CFTR loss remodels stem cell regulation, promotes hypoxia and oxidative stress, perturbs microbial ecosystems, drives chronic immune activation and stromal remodelling, and induces epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP) and DNA-damage vulnerability, collectively creating a pre-neoplastic intestinal ecosystem. We situate this model within contemporary CRC frameworks that emphasise cell-state transitions, hybrid epithelial-mesenchymal (E/M) states and specialised stromal niches, and we distinguish it from oncofoetal reprogramming, an APC-driven programme that CF does not clearly recapitulate. We propose that CF may provide a naturally occurring human context in which chronic epithelial stress sustains EMP-like pressure, a concept that requires direct validation in human CF intestinal tissue. Finally, we consider how CFTR modulators, microbiome-directed therapies and redox-targeted interventions might re-programme the CF intestinal niche and outline experimental and clinical strategies needed to determine whether early, ecosystem-level correction can prevent GI cancers in this high-risk population.},
}

@article {pmid42605204,
year = {2026},
author = {Tan, W},
title = {Evolution and Mechanistic Insights of Immunometabolism in Metabolic Diseases and Infections.},
journal = {Scandinavian journal of immunology},
volume = {104},
number = {2},
pages = {e70141},
doi = {10.1111/sji.70141},
pmid = {42605204},
issn = {1365-3083},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Metabolic Diseases/immunology/metabolism ; Metabolic Reprogramming ; Trained Immunity ; Immunity, Innate ; *Infections/immunology/metabolism ; Glycolysis ; TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism ; Inflammation/immunology/metabolism ; *Energy Metabolism ; },
abstract = {Immunometabolism, an emerging field exploring metabolic reprogramming and functional regulation in immune cells, offers a lens for understanding complex diseases. This review delineates core concepts, key signalling nodes-emphasising the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) as an integrator of metabolic and immune signals-research and intervention strategies across metabolic and infectious diseases. Immune cells display metabolic plasticity: At rest, they depend mainly on mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, but swiftly shift to aerobic glycolysis upon activation to fuel effector functions. Pro-inflammatory subsets like Th1 cells and M1 macrophages lean heavily on glycolysis, whereas regulatory T cells favour fatty acid oxidation. Central pathways-glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and amino acid metabolism-directly shape immune activation and inflammation via intermediates and regulatory enzymes. For example, succinate and itaconic acid are critical in inflammation control, while fatty acid and cholesterol metabolism dictate immune cell fate. In metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes, fatty liver disease, and atherosclerosis, immune metabolic reprogramming is the main driver of chronic low-grade inflammation and tissue injury. During infection, a metabolic tug-of-war ensues: Pathogens hijack host metabolism for survival, and the host counters by reprogramming its own metabolism. The idea of "trained immunity" highlights how metabolism-epigenetics crosstalk endows innate immunity with memory-like capacity. These insights inform therapeutic avenues-modulating metabolic pathways, nutritional interventions, and microbiome targeting-with wide potential. Challenges remain, including the complexity of in vivo networks and the need for precise interventions. Yet advances in single-cell multi-omics and metabolic flux analysis will deepen mechanistic understanding and enable breakthroughs in precision strategies.},
}

Humans
Animals
*Metabolic Diseases/immunology/metabolism
Metabolic Reprogramming
Trained Immunity
Immunity, Innate
*Infections/immunology/metabolism
Glycolysis
TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism
Inflammation/immunology/metabolism
*Energy Metabolism

@article {pmid42605348,
year = {2026},
author = {Dai, Q and Deng, H and Wang, J and Shi, J and Ding, J and Gao, Y and Sun, W and Shen, Y and Wang, X and Lou, C},
title = {Neoadjuvant Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy with FOLFOX Plus Tislelizumab for Resectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma Beyond the Milan Criteria: Efficacy, Safety and Biomarker Exploration.},
journal = {Journal of hepatocellular carcinoma},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {615120},
pmid = {42605348},
issn = {2253-5969},
abstract = {PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy of oxaliplatin, fluorouracil, and leucovorin (FOLFOX-HAIC) combined with tislelizumab as a neoadjuvant regimen in patients with resectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) beyond the Milan criteria, and to explore predictive biomarkers of treatment response.

RESULTS: 26 patients completed neoadjuvant therapy, with a median tumor size of 6.35cm. The objective response rate according to mRECIST criteria reached 57.7%, and the disease control rate was 96.2%. 22 patients underwent radical surgery, and 10 patients (10/22, 45.5%) achieved major pathological response (residual viable tumor ≤10%). Six patients (27.3%) achieved complete pathological response, and 25 patients (96.2%) experienced at least one treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) The most common TRAEs were elevated transaminases (76.9%), HAIC-related pain (34.6%). Transcriptomic analysis revealed that differential genes between responding and non-responding tumors primarily involved pathways related to bile acid secretion and fatty acid metabolism. Metabolomic analysis showed elevated serum chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) in non-responders and elevated tumor glycocholic acid (GCA). Microbiome analysis further confirmed increased abundance of bile acid metabolism-related bacteria such as bacteroides in non-responders. Serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels after neoadjuvant therapy were correlated with treatment response.

CONCLUSION: FOLFOX-HAIC combined with tislelizumab as neoadjuvant therapy for HCC beyond the Milan criteria demonstrates favorable anti-tumor efficacy and controllable toxicity. The level of GCA in tumor, peripheral blood CDCA, IL-6, and fecal bacteroides may hold the potential to serve as a composite biomarker panel to predict pathological response and treatment sensitivity.},
}

@article {pmid42605509,
year = {2026},
author = {Xiao, L and Fu, C and Santos, IR and Duarte, CM and Liu, J and Zhou, L and Zhou, M and Dang, R and Lin, J and Xiao, K and Luo, Y and Han, G},
title = {Microbial Decomposition of Lignin to Methane Reduces Net Blue Carbon Benefit Across China's Saltmarshes.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {32},
number = {8},
pages = {e71059},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.71059},
pmid = {42605509},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {2022YFF0802101//National Key Research and Development Program in China/ ; U2106209//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 42077025//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 42277236//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 41991330//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2021213//Youth Innovation Promotion Association of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; YICE3510303//Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; //Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions (ONCE) Program/ ; },
mesh = {*Methane/metabolism ; *Lignin/metabolism ; China ; *Wetlands ; Carbon/metabolism ; *Microbiota ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; },
abstract = {CH4 emissions from mangrove, saltmarsh, and seagrass ecosystems partially offset carbon sequestration, potentially diminishing the climate mitigation capacity of these blue carbon habitats. However, a mechanistic understanding of the processes governing CH4 production potential across large spatial scales remains limited. By integrating incubation-based measurements from 116 sites, we reveal significant ecosystem-specific differences in CH4 production potential, with saltmarshes emerging as CH4 production hotspot relative to mangroves and seagrass meadows. Using an integrated analytical approach encompassing more than 30 environmental, biogeochemical, and microbial parameters, we demonstrate that CH4 production potential converges on sediment organic carbon availability, particularly plant-derived carbon, as a key regulatory axis. Additionally, metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) recovered from saltmarshes show a functional bias toward lignin degradation, thereby fueling downstream CH4 production via methylotrophic pathways. Lignin-addition and stable carbon isotope experiments further provide supportive evidence that lignin decomposition enhances Chinese saltmarsh CH4 production potential, revealing a pathway that may reduce net blue carbon benefit. Together, these findings underscore that saltmarsh plant-derived lignin is less stable than conventionally assumed, as microbial processing redirects stored carbon toward CH4 production, challenging current blue carbon accounting frameworks at a continental scale within China.},
}

*Methane/metabolism
*Lignin/metabolism
China
*Wetlands
Carbon/metabolism
*Microbiota
Biodegradation, Environmental

@article {pmid42605689,
year = {2026},
author = {Núñez-Belmar, J and Leyrer, J and Beltrán, V and Borie, E and Fernández-Gil, F},
title = {Beyond bactericidal surfaces: interfacial selectivity as a design principle for implant biomaterials.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-21},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2026.2715441},
pmid = {42605689},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {Within seconds of placement, an adsorbed conditioning film replaces the implant's manufactured substrate and becomes the true interface host cells and microorganisms encounter. Conventional strategies engineered to kill or suppress bacteria therefore act on an interface neither party meets, helping explain the inconsistent clinical performance of broadly bactericidal designs. We propose interfacial selectivity, the capacity of a surface to favor beneficial over detrimental interactions, as a unifying design framework for implant biomaterials, and show how interfacial physicochemistry can be programmed to discriminate between colonizers. The implant boundary is viewed as three coupled interfaces: implant-film, film-microbiome, and film-host. Shared drivers, surface energy, charge, hydration, and multiscale topography, govern all three, so modifications intended to deter pathogens also influence commensal colonization, soft-tissue sealing, and osteoimmune balance. A regime map of interfacial forces reinterprets functionalization strategies within a common selectivity space, and a proposed selectivity index, applied here to published data for three archetypal surfaces, reorients evaluation from short-term killing toward the balance between host-beneficial and pathogen-beneficial outcomes. We derive transferable design principles, propose a minimum reporting standard, identify methodological gaps limiting translation, and argue that genomic and multi-omic calibration could enable patient-specific implementation across dental, percutaneous, and orthopedic implants.},
}

@article {pmid42605778,
year = {2026},
author = {},
title = {Gut Microbiome Metabolism Links High Fat Diets to Immunotherapy Efficacy.},
journal = {Cancer discovery},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {OF1},
doi = {10.1158/2159-8290.CD-RW2026-071},
pmid = {42605778},
issn = {2159-8290},
}

@article {pmid42605963,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, S and Wang, M and Chen, J and Zhu, Y and Zhu, B and Xu, Z and Liao, Y and Wang, Y},
title = {Highly Sensitive Spatial Host-Microbiome Transcriptomics in FFPE Tissues via Iterative Hydrogel Expansion.},
journal = {Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e77219},
doi = {10.1002/advs.77219},
pmid = {42605963},
issn = {2198-3844},
support = {2026ZD0556100//Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases-National Science and Technology Major Project/ ; TD2024015//Hangzhou Leading Innovation and Entrepreneurship Team Project/ ; 2024SSYS0022//Key R&D Program of Zhejiang/ ; },
abstract = {Spatial transcriptomics (ST) of archival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues is fundamentally limited by a trade-off between spatial resolution and transcriptomic sensitivity due to severe molecular crowding and RNA degradation. Here, we present Ex-spRandom, a highly sensitive platform that overcomes this limitation by directly converting diverse, fragmented RNA biotypes into stably anchored cDNA through the integration of random-primed in situ cDNA synthesis chemistry with interpenetrating polymer network (IPN)-based tissue expansion chemistry. This physicochemical synergy physically decrowds the dense FFPE matrix, directly converting highly fragmented host and microbial RNAs into stably anchored cDNA. Consequently, Ex-spRandom improves spatial signal confinement while enabling the detection of nearly 10,000 median genes per 50-µm spatial bin. Leveraging this synergistic high resolution and sensitivity, the platform captures over 44,000 unique host genes, enabling the precise delineation of continuous neurodevelopmental trajectories in the complex embryonic eye. Furthermore, Ex-spRandom achieves simultaneous, spatial profiling of host epithelial architecture and microbial transcript signals in the colon, detecting over 150,000 unique microbial genes. Ultimately, this scalable platform establishes a framework for sensitive, cross-kingdom spatial profiling in archival FFPE tissues.},
}

@article {pmid42606123,
year = {2026},
author = {Ðuran, I and Tang, WHW and Mamic, P},
title = {The gut microbiome and allograft outcomes: implications for heart transplantation.},
journal = {The Journal of clinical investigation},
volume = {136},
number = {16},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1172/JCI207999},
pmid = {42606123},
issn = {1558-8238},
mesh = {Humans ; *Heart Transplantation/adverse effects ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology ; Allografts ; *Graft Rejection/microbiology/immunology ; Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use ; Animals ; *Heart Failure/microbiology/surgery/therapy ; Fecal Microbiota Transplantation ; },
abstract = {Heart transplantation remains the gold standard therapy for patients with end-stage heart failure. However, post-transplant complications are considerable. Emerging evidence implicates the gut microbiome as a modifiable determinant of post-heart transplant outcomes through its influence on host immunity, metabolism, and inflammation. This Review synthesizes current understanding of gut microbiome dysregulation following solid organ transplantation, with particular emphasis on heart transplantation, examining mechanistic links underpinning important complications including allograft rejection, infection, metabolic dysfunction, and cardiac allograft vasculopathy. We critically evaluate bidirectional interactions between the gut microbiome and immunosuppressive drugs, assess the potential for microbiome profiling to serve as a predictive biomarker for post-transplant complications, and examine microbiome-targeted interventions including dietary modification, prebiotics, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplant. Finally, we propose a translational roadmap to integrate microbiome science into heart transplant care to optimize immunosuppression, predict complications, and improve long-term outcomes for heart transplant recipients.},
}

Humans
*Heart Transplantation/adverse effects
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology
Allografts
*Graft Rejection/microbiology/immunology
Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use
Animals
*Heart Failure/microbiology/surgery/therapy
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation

@article {pmid42606185,
year = {2026},
author = {Demirci, M},
title = {Asthma Dysbiosis Index: A Universal Airway Microbiome Signature From Multi-Cohort Analysis.},
journal = {Pediatric pulmonology},
volume = {61},
number = {8},
pages = {e71796},
doi = {10.1002/ppul.71796},
pmid = {42606185},
issn = {1099-0496},
}

@article {pmid42606273,
year = {2026},
author = {Al Shuraiqi, A and Al-Ansari, A and Al-Habsi, A and Abed, RMM and Barry, MJ},
title = {Heat-Stress Alters the Effects of Antibiotics on Fish Behavior.},
journal = {Environmental toxicology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/tox.70188},
pmid = {42606273},
issn = {1522-7278},
support = {IG/SCI/BIOL/21/01//Sultan Qaboos University/ ; RC/GRG/SCI/BIOL/21/04//Oman, Research and Innovation Authority (RIA)/ ; },
abstract = {Antibiotics are a common contaminant of freshwaters, yet surprisingly understudied compared to other classes of drugs. Even trace concentrations of antibiotics can alter the gut microbiome, in turn affecting multiple systems including physiology, biochemistry, and behavior. Concurrently, climate change is leading to higher average temperatures and more frequent temperature spikes. The microbiome of poikilotherms is also highly sensitive to temperature. Little is known of how these two stressors interact. In this study we investigated the effects of amoxicillin, an antibiotic that is widely used in human and veterinary medicine, on the swimming behavior and predatory avoidance responses of zebrafish at two temperatures, 28°C (normal) and 32°C (heat-stressed). Additionally, we investigated the effects of the two stressors on the gut microbiome and heat shock protein expression. Both temperature and amoxicillin affected key behaviors including boldness, sociability, and swimming speed, with fish exposed to low-dose amoxicillin having higher swimming velocity suggesting a possible hormesis response. Amoxicillin exposure also increased fish boldness, while temperature had the opposite effect. A high temperature also reduced fish sociability. Both stressors also altered zebrafish responses to a conspecific alarm cue and induced heat shock protein gene expression. Heat stress and amoxicillin both altered the fish gut microbiome at the genus level with heat stress alone increasing several genera (e.g., Nordella, Nocardia, Reyranella), while heat stress plus high amoxicillin (20 μg/L) further increased others (e.g., Bradyrhizobium, Legionella, Xanthobacter). Overall alpha diversity (Shannon) changed little, but community composition (ANOSIM) shifted most clearly under high amoxicillin and under heat combined with amoxicillin, indicating dose- and temperature-dependent restructuring of the gut microbiome. Overall, the microbiome is emerging as an important regulator of physiology and behavior that is vulnerable to multiple stressors.},
}

@article {pmid42606298,
year = {2026},
author = {Abbasian, R and Parajuli, B and Yu, L and Durocher, B and Gardner, E and Chodur, E and Dwelley, MK and Ellermeier, CD and Ho, TD and Bosch, DE},
title = {Secreted nuclease effector neutralization by active site mimicry in Bacillota.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0151626},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.01516-26},
pmid = {42606298},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {Polymorphic toxins mediate interbacterial antagonism among competitors in the gut microbiome. Nuclease effectors, distantly related to the type VI-secreted Bacteroidales Tde, are enriched in human gut Bacillota. Tde mediates antagonism among Bacillota, and expression of the cognate immunity, Tdi, in recipients is protective. Crystal structures of Tde/Tdi complexes from two Bacillus spp. and Enterococcus quebecensis highlight a conserved mechanism of immunity. Tdi engages Tde with high-affinity, specific binding at an interface that features predominantly polar amino acids. A separate Tdi interface has a very highly conserved P(Φ)4GG motif that structurally mimics and displaces a short helix in Tde's active site, which contains the critical catalytic residues. An isolated P(Φ)4GG motif peptide is sufficient for Tde nuclease activity inhibition at high concentrations. However, key residues at both the polar interface and P(Φ)4GG are required for complete inhibition of nuclease activity and protection against toxicity. We propose a multivalent Tde/Tdi neutralization mechanism where an initial high-affinity interface increases the local concentration of Tdi's P(Φ)4GG motif, enabling it to displace the Tde active site through structural mimicry. The resulting conformational rearrangement of Tde increases its flexibility in solution and susceptibility to proteolysis, which may aid in eliminating the toxic effector.IMPORTANCEBacteria in the gut microbiome compete using toxin secretion systems. Prior research has emphasized the importance of secretion systems in gram-negative bacteria. We describe a class of secreted nuclease effectors (toxins) and protective immunity proteins that are enriched in gram-positive Bacillota in human gut microbiomes. These effector/immunity pairs mediate antagonism among Bacillus and Enterococcus spp. The immunity proteins neutralize the nuclease effector through a unique mechanism of enzymatic active site mimicry. The immunity proteins bind effectors with very high-affinity at an interface with polar residues. The effector undergoes a large conformational change. A very highly conserved motif on the immunity surface competitively displaces an active site short helix and loop that contains the key catalytic residues. This rearrangement of the effector renders it inactive and susceptible to elimination by proteolysis.},
}

@article {pmid42606380,
year = {2026},
author = {Zuo, Y and Su, Z and Guo, J and Zhou, M and Wang, Y and Ni, Z},
title = {Regulatory Mechanisms of Synthetic Microbial Communities on Rhizosphere Microecology to Alleviate Continuous Monoculture Obstacles of Medicinal Plants.},
journal = {Journal of applied microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jambio/lxag205},
pmid = {42606380},
issn = {1365-2672},
abstract = {Driven by industrial policies and market expansion, China has formed the world's largest medicinal plant cultivation industry. However, sustainable herbal production is seriously hindered by continuous monoculture obstacles (CMOs), which arise from prolonged single-species successive cultivation and manifest as comprehensive soil degradation featuring autotoxic allelochemical buildup, unbalanced rhizosphere microbiota, impaired soil physicochemical conditions, and frequent soil-borne pathogen outbreaks. Such adverse alterations lower soil enzyme activity, disrupt microbial community homeostasis, and severely impair both the yield and bioactive constituent quality of medicinal plants. Synthetic microbial communities (SynComs), experimentally assembled from defined microbial isolates via precise cultivation and controlled assembly, exhibit promising potential to regulate plant metabolism, optimize nutrient cycling and boost plant stress tolerance, and thus may serve as a feasible strategy to mitigate medicinal plant CMOs. This review took rhizosphere microecology as its core research perspective and summarized CMOs' status, SynComs' significance, construction methods, and their mechanisms in reshaping rhizosphere microecology-focusing on root exudates, nutrient cycling and microbiome dynamics. SynComs adjusted root exudates, participate in carbon/nitrogen/phosphorus cycling, enhance stress/pathogen resistance, and strengthen root immunity via signaling pathways (e.g. jasmonic acid). Existing experimental evidence indicated SynComs may partially repair plant-microbe communication networks impaired under continuous monoculture. Future research should prioritize innovative SynCom designs with keystone microbes, improved assembly techniques, and deeper rhizosphere mechanistic studies to advance sustainable medicinal plant production.},
}

@article {pmid42606596,
year = {2026},
author = {Kwack, KH and Sohn, J and Zhang, L and Li, L and Mullaney, R and Arao, Y and Blackshear, PJ and Kirkwood, KL},
title = {Gut microbiota transmits osteoimmune dysregulation and exacerbates trabecular bone loss in tristetraprolin-deficient mice.},
journal = {Journal of bone and mineral metabolism},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42606596},
issn = {1435-5604},
support = {R01DE028258/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; R01DE028258S1/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; R01DE032310/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; K99DE034829/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Tristetraprolin (TTP) is an RNA-binding protein essential for controlling cytokine production, and its deficiency leads to profound skeletal deterioration. Although TTP deficiency is associated with systemic inflammation and microbial dysbiosis, the contribution of the gut microbiota to bone pathology remains poorly defined.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We investigated whether the microbiome causally modulates osteoimmune mechanisms and bone microarchitecture in TTP-deficient mice. To isolate the effects of the microbiome, we utilized specific pathogen-free (SPF) and germ-free (GF) co-housing mouse models.

RESULTS: Microbial transfer bidirectionally regulated systemic inflammation and the expansion of monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (M-MDSCs), a population with potent osteoclastogenic capacity. Importantly, microbiota transfer was sufficient to induce osteoclast activation and a selective deterioration of trabecular bone microarchitecture in otherwise healthy mice, without affecting overall bone mass. Crucially, the transmission of these osteoimmune and skeletal phenotypes was microbiota-dependent; while a baseline genetic bone deficit persisted in GF TTP-deficient mice, the co-housing-induced M-MDSC expansion and trabecular bone alterations were not observed under GF conditions.

CONCLUSION: Our findings identify a microbiota-dependent osteoimmune axis that amplifies inflammatory bone loss in TTP deficiency. This work establishes the gut microbiome as a mechanistic modifier of bone quality in genetically driven inflammatory disease and highlights microbial targeting as a potential therapeutic strategy for inflammatory bone loss.},
}

@article {pmid42606623,
year = {2026},
author = {Nishihara, N and Tachibana, S and Yamakage, M},
title = {Prebiotic raffinose attenuates surgery-induced delirium-like behaviors through gut microbiota-mediated serotonergic signaling in frail senescence-accelerated mice: an experimental study using SAMP10 mice.},
journal = {Journal of anesthesia},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42606623},
issn = {1438-8359},
support = {20K17841//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 24K12053//Foundation for Promotion of Material Science and Technology of Japan/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Postoperative delirium (POD) is a severe neuropsychiatric complication characterized by acute cognitive dysfunction and neuroinflammation, particularly prevalent in frail elderly patients. While the gut-brain axis is recognized as a regulator of neuroinflammation, specific preventive strategies remain limited. We investigated whether preoperative administration of raffinose, a prebiotic trisaccharide, prevents POD-like behaviors through gut microbiota-mediated neuroimmune modulation in frail senescence-accelerated mice.

METHODS: Twenty-six-week-old senescence-accelerated mice (SAMP10) were randomly assigned to control (N), surgery (O), or raffinose-treated surgery (R) groups (n = 5-6 per group, depending on the endpoint). Raffinose (5% w/v) was administered via drinking water for 4 weeks prior to laparotomy under general anesthesia. Delirium-like behaviors were assessed using the open field, Y-maze, and buried food tests at 6 h post-surgery. Serum biomarkers were quantified via ELISA. Gut microbiota composition was analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing.

RESULTS: Surgery was associated with a numerical reduction in Y-maze spontaneous alternation that showed a large effect size but did not reach conventional statistical significance (O: 4.32 ± 3.46% vs. N: 10.71 ± 5.41%; p = 0.097, Cohen's d = 1.41, 95% CI -0.04 to 2.79), whereas a robust and statistically significant motivational deficit was observed in the Buried Food Test (O: 240.8 ± 116.7 s vs. N: 35.2 ± 25.6 s; p = 0.001, d = 2.52). Raffinose pretreatment was associated with higher Y-maze spontaneous alternation compared with the surgery group (R: 12.4 ± 4.20%; p = 0.034 vs. O, d = 2.10) and with restoration of motivational behavior in the BFT (R: 18.7 ± 4.74 s; p = 0.0006 vs. O, d = 2.77). Systemically, raffinose reduced circulating IL-6 by 56% and preserved gut microbial α- and β-diversity, with significant enrichment of Lactobacillus. Lactobacillus abundance was strongly correlated with preserved serum serotonin (r = 0.72, p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS: Prebiotic raffinose attenuates surgery-induced systemic inflammation and preserves cognitive-attentional and motivational performance in frail mice, providing convergent behavioral, biochemical, and microbiome evidence consistent with a gut-microbiota-serotonergic mechanism, which requires direct causal validation in future studies. These findings provide a preclinical rationale for prehabilitation nutritional strategies targeting the gut-brain axis, while acknowledging that individual behavioral readouts differ in the strength of the surgery-induced control-vs-surgery contrast.},
}

@article {pmid42606639,
year = {2026},
author = {Shahbaztabari, N and Shahverdi, M and Taherkhani, S and Hosseini, E and Amjadi, F},
title = {Potential Role of Prebiotics and Probiotics on Oocyte Quality, Embryo Development, Endometrial Health, and Fertility Outcomes in Assisted Reproductive Technologies.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42606639},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have transformed infertility treatment over recent decades, yet success rates remain inconsistent. Beyond the established embryological and hormonal determinants, emerging research identifies the human microbiome-particularly gut and reproductive tract communities-as a critical regulator of reproductive efficiency. The gut microbiota influences endocrine balance, metabolic signaling, and immune homeostasis, all of which have a direct impact on oocyte maturation, embryo viability, and endometrial receptivity. Dysbiosis, characterized by the depletion of beneficial lactobacilli and an increase in pro-inflammatory bacterial taxa, has been associated with oxidative stress, reduced oocyte competence, and implantation failure. In contrast, a balanced microbiota supports follicular health and hormonal coordination. Prebiotic and probiotic interventions may enhance reproductive outcomes through several complementary mechanisms. By restoring a Lactobacillus-dominant microbial profile, they help stabilize the reproductive tract ecosystem, reinforce epithelial and immune barrier function, and limit the overgrowth of potentially pathogenic species. These changes reduce local inflammation and oxidative stress while promoting the secretion of antimicrobial peptides and bacteriocins that maintain tissue integrity. Collectively, these microbiome-mediated effects can contribute to improved follicular fluid homeostasis, enhanced oocyte competence, better early embryo development, and ultimately higher ART success rates. In conclusion, modulation of the gut-reproductive axis through targeted probiotic or prebiotic therapy represents a promising biological adjunct to assisted reproduction. Further mechanistic studies and large-scale randomized trials are warranted to validate its clinical applicability and optimize therapeutic regimens.},
}

@article {pmid42606819,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, KJ and Park, JH and Park, H and Kim, MJ and Yoon, H and Kim, JM and Han, SH and Suk, KT},
title = {Phocaeicola coprocola attenuates liver fibrosis by modulating extracellular matrix remodeling.},
journal = {Gut microbes},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2718623},
doi = {10.1080/19490976.2026.2718623},
pmid = {42606819},
issn = {1949-0984},
mesh = {Animals ; *Extracellular Matrix/metabolism ; *Liver Cirrhosis/metabolism/therapy/microbiology ; Mice ; Male ; Disease Models, Animal ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Liver/metabolism/pathology ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Humans ; *Actinobacteria/physiology ; Diet, Western/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {Chronic liver diseases, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), frequently progress to liver fibrosis, yet effective antifibrotic therapies remain limited. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of the commensal bacterium Phocaeicola coprocola using Western diet (WD)-induced MASLD and DDC + TAA-induced fibrosis murine models. In the WD model, P. coprocola administration attenuated hepatic steatosis, reduced lipogenic gene expression, and improved metabolic and histological parameters. In contrast, in the DDC + TAA model of advanced fibrosis, P. coprocola significantly reduced cholestatic markers and fibrosis severity. Mechanistically, these antifibrotic effects occurred independently of broad suppression of inflammatory mediators or upstream TGF-β-Smad signaling, and were instead associated with selective downregulation of extracellular matrix (ECM)-related fibrogenic programs, including Col1a1, Col3a1, and Mmp2. Notably, these effects were observed even in the absence of detectable gut colonization, suggesting that stable engraftment is not required for therapeutic activity. P. coprocola also enhanced colonic epithelial barrier-related gene expression and host-microbial metabolic signaling. In humans, circulating ECM remodeling markers (PIIINP, MMP2, and TIMP1) were associated with fibrosis severity, supporting the translational relevance of ECM-targeted mechanisms. Collectively, these findings identify P. coprocola as a selective modulator of ECM remodeling that uncouples fibrotic output from upstream inflammatory signaling, highlighting its potential as a microbiome-based therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis across multiple disease etiologies.},
}

Animals
*Extracellular Matrix/metabolism
*Liver Cirrhosis/metabolism/therapy/microbiology
Mice
Male
Disease Models, Animal
Mice, Inbred C57BL
Liver/metabolism/pathology
Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Humans
*Actinobacteria/physiology
Diet, Western/adverse effects

@article {pmid42607235,
year = {2026},
author = {Kharazishvili, K and Hujova, A and Hucl, T and Balounova, K and Vokacova, K and Kroupa, M},
title = {Leukocyte telomere length and gut microbiome profiles in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and at-risk conditions.},
journal = {Biomolecules & biomedicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.17305/bb.2026.14506},
pmid = {42607235},
issn = {2831-090X},
abstract = {Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, highlighting the need for minimally invasive biomarkers capable of distinguishing it from related risk conditions. This study evaluated relative leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and gut microbiome profiles as potential biomarkers for PDAC. The study included 244 participants with PDAC (n = 37), chronic pancreatitis (CP; n = 56), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM; n = 99), or no related risk conditions (controls; n = 52). LTL was measured by monochrome multiplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), while gut microbiome composition was assessed by 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing in a subset of participants with PDAC (n = 12), CP (n = 13), and controls (n = 7). LTL varied with age, sex, and smoking status. After adjustment for these factors, patients with PDAC had significantly longer LTL than controls (p = 0.029), whereas differences between PDAC and CP or T2DM were not significant. LTL showed limited ability to discriminate PDAC from controls (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.651) and was not associated with overall survival. Gut microbiome diversity and taxonomic composition did not differ significantly among the analyzed groups. These findings indicate that LTL has limited utility as a standalone diagnostic or prognostic biomarker for PDAC but may warrant further evaluation as a complementary marker in larger prospective studies. The exploratory microbiome findings also require validation in adequately powered cohorts.},
}

@article {pmid42607346,
year = {2026},
author = {Morizot, C and Halper, J and Breban, M and Gill, T and Loeuille, D and Moulin, D},
title = {Experimental models of spondyloarthritis: Pathophysiological insights and translational challenges.},
journal = {Journal of autoimmunity},
volume = {163},
number = {},
pages = {103607},
doi = {10.1016/j.jaut.2026.103607},
pmid = {42607346},
issn = {1095-9157},
abstract = {Spondyloarthritis (SpA) represents a heterogeneous group of chronic inflammatory rheumatologic diseases, including axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and SpA associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These conditions share overlapping clinical manifestations, genetic predisposition-particularly a strong association with HLA-B27-and common immunopathogenic pathways, notably the IL-23/IL-17 axis and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling. Understanding SpA pathophysiology has been greatly facilitated by animal models, which have provided critical mechanistic insights and served as indispensable tools for preclinical drug testing. Among these, rodent models have been particularly informative. However, despite their contributions, no single model reproduces the full clinical spectrum of SpA, which includes axial inflammation, enthesitis, peripheral arthritis, and extra-articular manifestations such as uveitis, psoriasis, and gut involvement. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of rodent SpA models, focusing on their mechanistic underpinnings, key discoveries, and translational relevance. We first summarize the major categories of models before examining the strengths and limitations of each. We highlight how these models have advanced our understanding of the gut-joint axis, IL-23-driven entheseal inflammation, and TNF-dependent pathways, which are now major therapeutic targets. Finally, we discuss emerging strategies to enhance translational fidelity, including humanized mice, microbiome engineering, and integration of multi-omic approaches. These developments are essential to bridge the current gap between experimental findings and clinical applications in SpA.},
}

@article {pmid42603144,
year = {2026},
author = {Feidenhansl, C and Rruci, E and Knödlseder, N and Lomholt, HB and Brüggemann, H},
title = {Differential Quantification of Cutibacterium acnes Phylotypes IA and IB/II on Healthy and Acne-Prone Human Skin.},
journal = {Experimental dermatology},
volume = {35},
number = {8},
pages = {e70347},
pmid = {42603144},
issn = {1600-0625},
support = {LF-OC-21-000826//LEO Fondet/ ; //Kjærsgaard foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Acne Vulgaris/microbiology/drug therapy ; *Skin/microbiology ; Female ; Isotretinoin/therapeutic use ; Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods ; Skin Microbiome ; Adult ; Dermatologic Agents/therapeutic use ; *Propionibacteriaceae/genetics/isolation & purification ; *Propionibacterium acnes/genetics/isolation & purification ; Male ; Young Adult ; Hyaluronoglucosaminidase/genetics ; },
abstract = {Cutibacterium acnes is a common skin bacterium that inhabits sebaceous follicles and comprises multiple phylotypes. Healthy skin is colonized by a C. acnes population dominated by phylotypes IA, IB, and II. In acne, this diversity is reduced, with a predominance of phylotype IA. Quantifying C. acnes phylotypes has been challenging due to the lack of specific methods. Here, we developed a droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) assay that separately quantifies phylotype IA and phylotypes IB/II, based on a difference in the hyaluronidase gene. The method was applied to skin swabs from 14 healthy individuals and 14 acne patients. Healthy skin contained nearly equal amounts of IA and IB/II, whereas acne samples showed a 111-fold predominance of IA over IB/II, due to a marked depletion of IB/II, instead of an increase of IA. After 4-6 months of isotretinoin treatment, C. acnes levels decreased drastically, with phylotype IA reduced by 50-fold. Twelve to 15 months after treatment, both phylotypes rebounded, although IB/II recovered only partially. Taken together, this ddPCR method can quantitatively distinguish the acne-dominant phylotype IA from healthy skin-associated phylotypes IB/II, and is thus a useful tool for skin microbiome studies and specifically for assessing C. acnes dysbiosis in acne.},
}

Humans
*Acne Vulgaris/microbiology/drug therapy
*Skin/microbiology
Female
Isotretinoin/therapeutic use
Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods
Skin Microbiome
Adult
Dermatologic Agents/therapeutic use
*Propionibacteriaceae/genetics/isolation & purification
*Propionibacterium acnes/genetics/isolation & purification
Male
Young Adult
Hyaluronoglucosaminidase/genetics

@article {pmid42603146,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, R and Li, H and Wang, C and Yang, G},
title = {Synthetic microbial communities: emerging live biotherapeutics for targeted gut microbiome modulation.},
journal = {Gut microbes},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2719056},
doi = {10.1080/19490976.2026.2719056},
pmid = {42603146},
issn = {1949-0984},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; Fecal Microbiota Transplantation/methods ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Inflammatory Bowel Diseases/therapy/microbiology ; *Biological Therapy/methods ; *Dysbiosis/therapy/microbiology ; Clostridium Infections/therapy/microbiology ; Colorectal Neoplasms/therapy/microbiology ; Clostridioides difficile ; },
abstract = {Gut microbiome dysbiosis causes various intestinal diseases. However, an undefined composition and potential biosafety risks limit the applicability of traditional fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). Synthetic microbial communities (SynComs), which are compositionally defined and rationally designed emerging live biotherapeutics, offer a novel alternative to FMT. This review establishes strict boundaries between SynComs and traditional donor-derived preparations, comparatively evaluating "top-down" and "bottom-up" construction strategies. We explored the mechanisms underlying the SynComs-mediated synergistic restoration of intestinal homeostasis via direct targeted antagonism and modulation of the host immune network. Moreover, we systematically evaluated the current research landscape of SynComs in Clostridioides difficile infection, inflammatory bowel disease, and colorectal cancer. This review examines fundamental challenges, including host colonization resistance, chemistry, manufacturing, and control barriers, biosafety risks, and microbiokinetic regulatory frameworks, thereby addressing the translational gap. Our analysis of current literature provides a theoretical basis for the clinical translation of SynComs as emerging live biotherapeutics.},
}

Humans
Animals
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation/methods
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases/therapy/microbiology
*Biological Therapy/methods
*Dysbiosis/therapy/microbiology
Clostridium Infections/therapy/microbiology
Colorectal Neoplasms/therapy/microbiology
Clostridioides difficile

@article {pmid42603246,
year = {2026},
author = {Lou, J and Liu, H and Xiang, Z and Li, J and Kong, H and Le, X},
title = {Integrated analysis of the diabetic foot ulcer microbiome and host transcriptome supports a microenvironment-microbiota-host repair framework.},
journal = {Endocrine},
volume = {91},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42603246},
issn = {1559-0100},
support = {2022RC255//Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Project of Zhejiang Province/ ; 2025HY0993//Medical and Health Science Program of Zhejiang Province/ ; CXTD202502004//Zhejiang Clinovation Pride/ ; Y202140685, Y202456684//Scientific Research Fund of Zhejiang Provincial Education Department/ ; 2023RC081, 2025KY1395, 2025KY1443//Medical Scientific Research Foundation of Zhejiang Province/ ; 2022-F17//Project of Ningbo Leading Medical & Health Discipline/ ; 2022498346//Zhejiang Medical and Health Science and Technology Project/ ; 2023030615//Ningbo Top Medical and Health Research Program/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Diabetic Foot/microbiology/genetics ; *Microbiota/genetics ; *Transcriptome ; *Wound Healing/genetics/physiology ; Skin Microbiome ; Female ; Male ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) arise from interacting clinical, microbial, and host processes, yet public datasets differ substantially in design, scale, and evidentiary strength.

METHODS: We curated eight public DFU cohorts and defined an evidence hierarchy. PRJNA287759 was reprocessed from raw 16 S reads; outcome tests used one baseline sample per patient (74 healed and 15 non-healed/adverse). GSE134431 compared 13 DFU with 8 diabetic foot skin samples using limma. Host discrimination underwent fold-confined leave-one-sample-out validation, 100 repeated nested five-fold analyses, 200 label permutations, and independent rank-score evaluation in GSE80178.

RESULTS: Baseline diversity and community structure did not differ by outcome (Shannon P = 0.159; Observed ASVs P = 0.669; PERMANOVA R2 = 0.0157, P = 0.142). Rothia was the only nominal genus (P = 0.0307), and none survived FDR correction across prevalence thresholds. GSE134431 yielded 2,873 differentially expressed genes with coherent epidermal repair enrichment. Host leave-one-sample-out AUC was 0.990 (95% CI 0.964-1.000), repeated nested-CV median AUC was 0.981 (95% interval 0.952-1.000), and permutation P was 0.00995. The GSE80178 score separated 6 DFU from 3 diabetic foot skin samples (exact P = 0.0238; AUC = 1.000), although this external comparison was small.

CONCLUSIONS: Host expression provides the strongest evidence, whereas microbiome findings remain exploratory. The repair framework synthesizes parallel evidence without demonstrating causal coupling or a clinically deployable biomarker.},
}

Humans
*Diabetic Foot/microbiology/genetics
*Microbiota/genetics
*Transcriptome
*Wound Healing/genetics/physiology
Skin Microbiome
Female
Male

@article {pmid42603266,
year = {2026},
author = {Weng, R and Dong, G and Tang, J and Zhao, Y},
title = {Gut Microbiota and Ischemic Stroke: From Pre-Stroke Dysbiosis and Acute-Phase Changes to Therapeutic Applications.},
journal = {Brain and behavior},
volume = {16},
number = {8},
pages = {e71547},
pmid = {42603266},
issn = {2162-3279},
support = {LCYSSQ20220823091204009 SCRCND202501//Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases/ ; //Shenzhen High-level Hospital Construction Fund/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Dysbiosis/complications/microbiology ; *Ischemic Stroke/microbiology/therapy/physiopathology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; Animals ; *Brain-Gut Axis/physiology ; *Brain Ischemia/microbiology ; *Stroke ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: Ischemic stroke poses a major global health burden, and growing evidence points to the microbiota-gut-brain axis as an important contributor to stroke pathophysiology and recovery. The purpose of this review is to summarize current knowledge on bidirectional gut-brain communication in stroke, establishing gut dysbiosis as an upstream risk factor for stroke onset and examining microbiota dynamics across acute and chronic phases.

METHOD: A comprehensive review of the current literature was conducted to synthesize existing evidence on the mechanisms of gut-brain communication, the influence of host factors, post-stroke complications, and candidate therapeutic interventions targeting the MGBA in ischemic stroke.

FINDING: Gut dysbiosis acts as a risk factor for stroke through TMAO-mediated atherothrombosis, systemic inflammatory priming, and comorbidity-associated dysbiotic pre-conditioning. Following a stroke, dysbiosis is characterized by a depletion of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing taxa and an expansion of pro-inflammatory bacteria, particularly Proteobacteria and Enterobacteriaceae. Host factors (age, sex, genetics, and comorbidities) shape microbiota signatures and influence outcomes. Furthermore, post-stroke complications-including cognitive impairment, depression, stroke-associated pneumonia, and gastrointestinal dysfunction-are intimately linked to persistent dysbiosis. Mechanistically, the gut microbiota modulates stroke outcomes through immune regulation, metabolite signaling, blood-brain barrier integrity, and vagal pathways. Candidate therapeutic interventions (probiotics/prebiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, SCFA supplementation, traditional Chinese medicine, and neuromodulation) demonstrate promising neuroprotective and recovery-enhancing effects, predominantly in preclinical models.

CONCLUSION: While targeted interventions like probiotics and dietary fiber supplementation have shown modest benefits in small clinical trials, human clinical evidence remains largely preliminary. The translation of FMT, SCFA supplementation, and neuromodulatory approaches to clinical practice requires validation through rigorous, adequately powered randomized controlled trials. Future precision microbiome medicine demands individualized profiling and phenotype-specific interventions to establish microbiota-targeted strategies as viable adjunctive stroke therapies.},
}

Humans
*Dysbiosis/complications/microbiology
*Ischemic Stroke/microbiology/therapy/physiopathology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
Animals
*Brain-Gut Axis/physiology
*Brain Ischemia/microbiology
*Stroke

@article {pmid42603366,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, H and Sun, J and Zhai, M and Jiang, C and Zhu, G},
title = {Periodontitis in a Large Cohort of Young Chinese Adults: Associated Factors and Salivary Microbiome-Metabolome Profiles.},
journal = {International dental journal},
volume = {76},
number = {5},
pages = {109813},
doi = {10.1016/j.identj.2026.109813},
pmid = {42603366},
issn = {1875-595X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Periodontitis is a chronic multifactorial inflammatory disease that damages periodontal tissues and is associated with systemic diseases. It shows a global younger onset trend, with rising incidence in Chinese young adults, but studies mostly focus on those ≥35 years, lacking systematic exploration of 18 to 35-year-olds.

METHODS: From December 2024 to May 2025, 2888 adults aged 18 to 35 years were recruited from Tongji Hospital. Periodontitis was diagnosed per the 2018 Classification. Questionnaires collected demographic, physical and mental health, oral hygiene and lifestyle data. Saliva samples underwent 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics. Statistical analyses included independent samples t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, chi-square test and binary logistic regression.

RESULTS: Periodontitis prevalence was 25.00%. Logistic regression identified marital status, suboptimal health, adverse childhood experiences, smoking and alcohol drinking were correlated with periodontitis, while longer per-brushing duration was negatively correlated with periodontitis. Salivary microbiota community richness and composition differed significantly between groups, with higher Fusobacteriota in periodontitis patients. Untargeted metabolomics identified 267 differential metabolites (mainly lipids, amino acids) and enriched metabolic pathways (e.g., nucleotide metabolism). Fusobacteriota was negatively correlated with 5-phosphoribosyl-4-carboxy-5 aminoimidazole.

CONCLUSIONS: Multiple factors were associated with periodontitis in young adults. Salivary microbiota and metabolic abnormalities may be associated with its pathogenesis, providing a scientific basis for prevention and management. The generalizability of these findings was limited by single-center convenience sampling and exploratory multi-omics profiling performed on a small matched subgroup.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study identified a 25% prevalence of periodontitis in Chinese young adults aged 18 to 35 years, clarified its multidimensional associated factors, and revealed salivary microbiome-metabolome perturbations. It provided a scientific basis for the prevention of periodontitis in this young population.},
}

@article {pmid42603438,
year = {2026},
author = {Verma, V and Devi, YL and Devi, TB and Laishram, P and Dinesh, GK and Sarangi, PK and Singh, AK and Prasad, R},
title = {Wheat microbiome interactions under climate change: Mechanisms of abiotic stress tolerance and sustainable crop resilience.},
journal = {Plant physiology and biochemistry : PPB},
volume = {238},
number = {},
pages = {111626},
doi = {10.1016/j.plaphy.2026.111626},
pmid = {42603438},
issn = {1873-2690},
abstract = {Climate change-induced stresses, including drought, heat, and salinity, are increasingly constraining wheat productivity globally and pose a significant threat to global food security. Although beneficial rhizosphere microorganisms are known to enhance wheat stress tolerance, the mechanisms underlying wheat-microbiome interactions under climate-stress conditions remain poorly understood. This review highlights that wheat actively recruits and reshapes stress-resilient microbial communities, particularly members of Bacillus and Pseudomonas, which promote stress adaptation by regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS), phytohormone homeostasis, nutrient acquisition, and stress-responsive signalling pathways. Furthermore, wheat domestication has altered plant-microbe interactions, resulting in substantial differences in microbiome composition and functional potential between modern cultivars and their wild relatives. The wheat rhizosphere is a dynamic ecological interface where roots interact with diverse microbial communities that influence plant growth, nutrient cycling, and resilience to environmental stresses. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the effects of climate change on wheat physiology, growth, and rhizosphere microbiome composition, while examining how soil physicochemical properties shape microbial assembly and function. Particular emphasis is placed on the mechanisms by which beneficial microorganisms alleviate abiotic stress, including modification of root system architecture, antioxidant regulation, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, osmolyte accumulation, nutrient mobilization, and mitigation of stress-induced ethylene through ACC deaminase activity. We also discuss plant-microbe communication networks mediated by root exudates, microbial signalling molecules, and hormonal crosstalk that govern microbial recruitment, colonization, and establishment within the rhizosphere. Recent advances in genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and integrated multi-omics approaches have revealed that wheat dynamically restructures its microbiome in response to environmental stress, with host genotype serving as a key determinant of microbial community composition and function. By integrating evidence on soil properties, microbial functional traits, rhizosphere community dynamics, and wheat stress adaptation, this review provides a comprehensive framework for understanding microbiome-mediated stress resilience. Despite considerable progress, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding microbial community stability, functional redundancy, and the long-term field performance of microbial consortia across locations, seasons, and combined stress scenarios. Addressing these challenges through the integration of multi-omics technologies, microbiome-assisted breeding, synthetic microbial consortia, and climate-smart management strategies will be essential for developing resilient and sustainable wheat production systems under changing climatic conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42603583,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, X and Li, J and Yang, Z and Zheng, S and Huang, Q and Meng, F and Zhang, Y},
title = {Maternal co-exposure to polystyrene microplastics and DEHP impairs thyroid function in adult rat offspring.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {128962},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128962},
pmid = {42603583},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {Maternal combined exposure to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) poses potential risks to offspring endocrine development; however, the combined effects of these two contaminants remain poorly characterized. Pregnant rats were exposed to PS-MPs, DEHP or a combination of both throughout pregnancy and lactation. The hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis function and gut microbiota composition were then assessed in adult offspring. Single-contaminant exposure altered thyroid hormone levels and HPT axis gene expression. Co-exposure exacerbated these disruptions, producing greater TSH suppression, elevated thyroid hormone levels, and uniform downregulation of Nis expression in offspring of both sexes. Sex-specific differences in hypothalamic and pituitary gene expression were observed, suggesting that upstream HPT axis regulation was disrupted via sex-divergent mechanisms. The combined exposure also induced morphological disruption of thyroid follicular epithelial cells and elevated oxidative stress markers. In co-exposed offspring, gut microbiome profiling revealed Bacteroides depletion and Enterococcus enrichment as the most prominent taxa-level shifts. The parallel perturbations in gut microbiome composition and HPT axis function across treatment groups support a proposed disruption model of the gut-brain-thyroid axis. Our findings demonstrate that maternal co-exposure to PS-MPs and DEHP induces sex-divergent thyroid endocrine disruption in offspring, driven by a complex integration of additive and synergistic toxicities. Consequently, relying exclusively on single-pollutant models likely underestimates the developmental health threats of real-world plastic mixtures, highlighting the critical need to incorporate mixture interactions and sex-specific vulnerabilities into future environmental risk assessments.},
}

@article {pmid42603665,
year = {2026},
author = {Stewart, GE and Guo, Y and Cao, S},
title = {Emerging bacterial membrane vesicles from microbial messengers to therapeutic nanocarriers.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {115250},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.115250},
pmid = {42603665},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {Bacterial membrane vesicles (BMVs) are nanoscale vesicles that are naturally released by bacteria into the extracellular environment. By retaining the bacterium's membrane and luminal cargo, BMVs represent natural nanocarriers and long-distance messengers capable of influencing human health and disease progression. Depending on the bacterial species of origin, BMVs present important transport roles by carrying diverse native molecular cargo, protecting luminal cargo from degradation, promoting intracellular delivery and cytosolic release, crossing biological barriers, and mediating interactions with host cells. Recently, engineering strategies have emerged to harness these natural nanocarriers for the improved delivery of a wide range of therapeutic cargos, including proteins, antigens, nucleic acids, oncolytic viruses, polymers, and nanoparticles. These engineering strategies include genetic engineering, encapsulation, surface modification, and detoxification methods. Together, these strategies provide features including superior loading efficiency, targeted delivery, controlled release, longer circulation time, and multi-composite delivery approaches. This review discusses BMVs as versatile, multi-functional, and bio-active delivery vehicles along with current preparation methods, delivery routes, engineering strategies, highlighting unique features and challenges for translation.},
}

@article {pmid42603715,
year = {2026},
author = {Altaffer, AL and Weisman, MH and Kaplan, RM and Horváth-Puhó, E and Sørensen, HT and Weiss, PF},
title = {Early life exposures association with later diagnosis of spondyloarthritis: A population-based case-control study.},
journal = {The Journal of rheumatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3899/jrheum.2026-0087},
pmid = {42603715},
issn = {1499-2752},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess whether early-life antibiotics are associated with spondyloarthritis (SpA) diagnosed by age 21.

METHODS: In this population-based, matched case-control study, we used Danish live births (1997-2023) restricted to those reaching minimum relevant ages by December 31, 2024: 1-21 years for psoriatic arthritis (PsA), 6-21 years for peripheral/axial SpA and inflammatory bowel disease-associated arthritis (IBD-AA). Cases (n=560) had physician-recorded SpA (peripheral/axial SpA, PsA, or IBD-AA). Controls were matched 1:50 by birth year, sex, and calendar year of diagnosis. Primary exposure was systemic antibiotic use the first year of life; secondary exposures included antibiotic class, number of courses, delivery mode, early upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), and systemic nonbacterial antimicrobials. Conditional logistic regression estimated adjusted odds ratios (aORs); dose-response was tested with the Wald test.

RESULTS: Among cases (median age 16.8 years; 59% peripheral/axial SpA, 28% PsA, 13% IBDAA), 50% received antibiotics, versus 42% of controls. First-year antibiotic exposure was associated with higher odds of SpA (aOR 1.35, 95% CI: 1.14-1.59). Broad-spectrum penicillins had the strongest class-specific association (aOR 1.42, 95% CI 1.19-1.70). Early URTI was independently associated with SpA (aOR 1.88, 95% CI 1.32-2.67); delivery mode and systemic nonbacterial antimicrobials were not. In SpA subgroup analysis, the association with first-year antibiotics was significant only for PsA (aOR 1.75, 95% CI: 1.27-2.41).

CONCLUSION: Antibiotic exposure in the first year of life, particularly broad-spectrum penicillins, was associated with increased odds of SpA by age 21, supporting the hypothesis that early-life microbiome disruption may increase later SpA risk.},
}

@article {pmid42600524,
year = {2026},
author = {Khan, R and Uddin, N and Srivastava, AK and Iqbal, A and Riaz, A and Kamran, A and Xie, X and Yang, S},
title = {Nanoparticles in climate-resilient agriculture: Biological mechanisms, rhizosphere interactions, and yield enhancement under abiotic stress.},
journal = {Microbiological research},
volume = {313},
number = {},
pages = {128683},
doi = {10.1016/j.micres.2026.128683},
pmid = {42600524},
issn = {1618-0623},
abstract = {Climate change intensifies abiotic stresses that limit crop productivity, requiring innovative strategies to enhance resilience without compromising sustainability. Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as potential modulators of plant stress responses by influencing molecular regulation, physiological adaptation, and stress resilience. However, current evidence remains fragmented because studies are dispersed across different NP types, crop species, abiotic stress conditions, and omics platforms, with most investigations conducted under controlled experimental conditions and few integrating molecular responses with agronomic performance. In this study, we synthesize evidence from plant physiology, omics (including transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and soil microbiome analyses), and agronomic studies to provide an integrated conceptual synthesis linking NPs' physicochemical properties with multi-omics reprogramming and yield-related outcomes under abiotic stress. Collectively, the available evidence indicates that NP size, surface charge, composition, and redox activity strongly influence uptake behavior, intracellular interactions, and signaling intensity, thereby shaping coordinated system-level responses rather than isolated modifications in individual genes, proteins, or metabolites. Across abiotic stresses, NPs modulate stress responses through effects on redox homeostasis, hormonal signaling, ion transport, metabolic flexibility, and rhizosphere interactions. However, their effects vary with NP properties, application conditions, plant species, and stress environments, ranging from stress mitigation to growth inhibition. These responses can improve photosynthetic stability, reproductive performance, and resource allocation, contributing to partial recovery of growth and yield under certain stress conditions. Conversely, excessive or poorly controlled NP exposure disrupts redox balance and growth, underscoring the importance of narrow efficacy windows. We further identify key limitations in the existing literature, including dose and crop specificity, short-term experimental designs, limited field validation, and limited mechanistic linkage between multi-omics responses and agronomic performance, highlighting the need for synchronized multi-omics validation. We contend that future advancements require a transition from proof-of-concept demonstrations to predictive, system-level approaches that integrate multi-omics with developmental stage, environmental context, and yield stability. By reframing NPs as context-dependent modulators of stress resilience rather than universal growth enhancers, this review provides a conceptual foundation for their responsible evaluation and potential application in climate-resilient agriculture.},
}

@article {pmid42600695,
year = {2026},
author = {Merenstein, C and McGinniss, JE and Gallop, R and Whiteside, SA and Pandya, K and Oyster, M and Graham-Wooten, J and Kalman, L and Clausen, E and Cantu, E and Diamond, JM and Bushman, FD and Christie, JD and Collman, RG},
title = {The Early Post-Transplantation Lung Microbiome and CXCL10 are Associated with Chronic Lung Allograft Dysfunction: A Prospective Study with 5-year Follow-Up.},
journal = {American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.ajt.2026.08.009},
pmid = {42600695},
issn = {1600-6143},
abstract = {Chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) is the major barrier to long-term lung transplantation success. Microbial factors have been linked to CLAD risk, and sequence-based methods have been applied recently to identify potential microbial drivers, though patient heterogeneity and follow-up time have been limitations. We undertook a longitudinal cohort study of 186 patients transplanted for diseases other than cystic fibrosis. Dense lung sampling was done over the first-year and patients were followed for 6.04 (median) years. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was analyzed by bacterial 16S rRNA gene sequencing and quantification. Post-implantation BAL was assayed for cytokines and metabolomics. Seventy patients (38%) developed CLAD. CLAD development and shorter time-to-CLAD were associated with higher lung bacterial burden particularly 6-months post-transplant, low Streptococcus/Prevotella ratio in lung six-weeks post-transplant, and elevated lung IP10/CXCL10 immediately post-implantation. Each factor associated with distinct CLAD timing. These factors, together with previously-recognized clinical features, stratify patients into groups differing by >3-fold CLAD risk. Thus, increased lung bacteria and altered composition during the first-year post-transplantation and immediate post-implantation IP10/CXCL10 associate with CLAD after transplantation for non-CF lung disease. Early events in the allograft may establish conditions impacting later graft failure, identify potentially modifiable mechanisms of injury, and provide biomarkers of CLAD risk.},
}

@article {pmid42600761,
year = {2026},
author = {Hong, Z and Lu, Z and Shi, R and Zheng, S and Luo, J and Chen, J and Xie, Z and Zheng, JS and Chen, YM and Zhang, Z},
title = {Prospective associations of tea consumption with skeletal muscle mass and strength: Insights from the gut microbiome and proteomics.},
journal = {Pharmacological research},
volume = {231},
number = {},
pages = {108398},
doi = {10.1016/j.phrs.2026.108398},
pmid = {42600761},
issn = {1096-1186},
abstract = {Tea consumption may be associated with skeletal muscle health, but longitudinal evidence based on repeated assessments remains limited. We examined the associations of tea intake and serum biomarkers with repeated skeletal muscle measures and explored whether these associations might be partly explained by multi-omics features. In this prospective cohort, 3408 adults were followed for approximately 12 years. Skeletal muscle mass was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, handgrip strength by digital dynamometry, gut microbial taxonomic and functional profiles by shotgun metagenomic sequencing, serum proteins by data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry, and fecal metabolites by targeted UPLC-MS/MS metabolomics. Linear mixed-effects models examined longitudinal associations, and mediation analyses estimated indirect effects. In longitudinal analyses, higher tea consumption frequency was associated with greater appendicular skeletal muscle mass, appendicular skeletal muscle index, and handgrip strength (β: 0.037-0.140; 95% CI: 0.002-0.205). Higher circulating flavan-3-ols showed similar associations with these muscle-related outcomes (β: 0.085-0.174; 95% CI: 0.007-0.254), whereas no significant associations were observed with walking speed. Exploratory multi-omics analyses identified tea-related differences in gut microbial species and functional pathways, fecal metabolites, and circulating proteins, including Gemmiger formicilis, amino acid biosynthesis pathways, fructose 1,6-bisphosphate, VTN, CFI, CNDP1, and ITIH4. Exploratory mediation analyses identified statistical indirect associations involving multi-omics features, with estimated proportions mediated ranging from 4.5% to 19.0%. Overall, higher tea consumption and circulating biomarkers were associated with greater skeletal muscle mass and strength, accompanied by distinct multi-omics features that may provide potential biological links between tea exposure and muscle-related outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid42600831,
year = {2026},
author = {Fabian Plaza, S and Gonzalo Tortella, F and Larama, G and Rodriguez, R and Lebeau, T and Lapie, C and Valdivia, W and Fajardo, E and Fernández-Baldo, M and Hirzel, J and Santoyo, G and Schoebitz, M},
title = {Forest conversion is more strongly associated with soil microbial functioning than chronic trace element exposure in an industrialized coastal Mediterranean ecosystem.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {128963},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128963},
pmid = {42600831},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {Forest soils in industrialized coastal zones can experience chronic diffuse trace element (TE) exposure, yet how vegetation replacement influences soil microbial communities under these conditions remains poorly understood. This study compared soils from native sclerophyllous forests and exotic pine plantations in the Hualpén Peninsula Nature Sanctuary (Chile), located near an industrial complex characterized by oil refining, petrochemical, steel, and port activities. Twenty-two soil sites were evaluated for TE concentrations, contamination indices, physicochemical properties, microbial biomass, enzymatic activities, and bacterial community composition using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Native forest soils contained 89% more organic matter (14.4% vs. 7.6%) and nearly twice the available N (53.6 vs. 26.2 mg kg[-1]) than plantation soils. These soils also exhibited greater respiration and microbial biomass carbon, whereas plantation soils showed higher metabolic quotients (qCO2), indicating lower microbial metabolic efficiency. Soil pH remained acidic in both systems (5.6-5.8). Mn and Zn were the most abundant elements, while contamination factors were highest for Pb, Cr, and Mn, indicating persistent trace element enrichment across the study area. Bacterial communities were dominated by Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, and Acidobacteriota, with native forest soils showing significantly higher Faith phylogenetic diversity (p = 0.041). Redundancy analysis revealed that bacterial community structure was more strongly associated with nutrient availability and microbial functional indicators than with trace element enrichment. However, Cr showed a significant secondary association (envfit r[2] = 0.53, p = 0.032). Overall, the results indicate that variation in soil microbial functioning was more closely associated with vegetation type and related soil properties than with chronic trace element enrichment. These findings highlight the importance of considering land-use change, soil quality, and contamination together when evaluating microbial responses in industrially influenced forest ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid42600856,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Y and Chen, L and Zhang, J and Zhang, Y and Wang, M and Zhang, R and Fang, W and Zhang, P and Zhang, G},
title = {Metagenomics reveals rumen residues as a superior inoculum for volatile fatty acid production in vitro.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135627},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135627},
pmid = {42600856},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Rumen microbiome is widely recognized as an efficient system for lignocellulose degradation. Rumen fluid (RF) has been often used as the inoculum in previous study of bioprocesses, however, the potential of rumen solids (RS) to enhance volatile fatty acid (VFA) production remains underexplored. The anaerobic fermentation performance of RS, RF, and RF + RS mixture as inocula was compared using corn stover as substrate, with RS addition at 5%, 10%, or 20% (w/w) to corn stover and RF addition at 1:2 (v/v) to buffer solution. At a corn stover content of 2.5% (w/v, based on final working volume), the highest VFA concentration of 10.05 g/L was achieved with 20% RS as inoculum, outperforming those with both RF and RF + RS. Metagenomic analysis revealed significant differences in bacterial, fungal, and archaeal community structures with 20% RS and RF. With 20% RS, hydrolytic bacteria (e.g., Enterobacter) dominated the ecological niche, microbial co-occurrence network analysis of the 2,000 most abundant genera revealed a simpler network with fewer negative associations, and functional analysis demonstrated a notable increase in relative abundance of glycosyltransferase (GT) families within carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes). With 20% RS, enrichment in glycolysis-related genes was observed, indicating a preference for carbohydrate degradation, while acid-producing pathways were enriched such as pyruvate metabolism with RF. Rumen solids, as a superior inoculum for VFA production, effectively enhanced lignocellulose bioconversion by enriching specific low-abundance microbial taxa, forming a microbial network with fewer negative associations, increasing the relative abundance of GT families, and strengthening the systemic hydrolysis capacity.},
}

@article {pmid42600959,
year = {2026},
author = {Habib, MR},
title = {Snail immunity to schistosomes: insights from omics studies.},
journal = {Developmental and comparative immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105711},
doi = {10.1016/j.dci.2026.105711},
pmid = {42600959},
issn = {1879-0089},
abstract = {Schistosomiasis is a serious public health concern, with transmission facilitated by a small number of freshwater snail intermediate host species. Infection outcomes vary greatly across the primary vector genera, Biomphalaria (for Schistosoma mansoni), Bulinus (for S. haematobium), and Oncomelania (for S. japonicum), even within species, ranging from full resistance to high compatibility. Omics methods have altered this field by correlating host genotype, baseline immunological status, and time-resolved responses to whether invading miracidia are eliminated or develop sporocysts. Evidence from genomes, transcriptomics, proteomics, and epigenomics suggests that resistance is frequently primed prior to exposure. However, the clearest divergence between resistant and susceptible trajectories occurs during a small early window (<12-48 h) after penetration. During this time, recognition, hemocyte recruitment, and soluble effector deployment either come together quickly or are delayed and guided by parasite-derived modulators. Established infections cause the host to adapt to chronic conditions through immune regulation, metabolic reprogramming, tissue and neuroendocrine remodeling, microbiome modification, and parasite castration. Comparative genomics reveals that each vector genus has evolved its own immunogenomic profile, which includes lineage-specific expansions of recognition and effector gene families. Together, these findings can help with field surveillance and intervention by providing molecular compatibility markers, functional tools for testing candidate genes, and tactics that target parasite-derived immune modulators. Integrated multi-omics approaches are a top priority, yet they are still limited in snail vectors compared to other disease vector systems.},
}

@article {pmid42600988,
year = {2026},
author = {Ghanta, CC and Thapa, A and Tao, Z and Rohatgi, A and Mineo, C and Kalbasi-Ashtari, A and Pahlavani, M},
title = {Enhancing Anthocyanin Bioavailability Unlocks the Cardiovascular Potential of Grape Pomace: A Review.},
journal = {The Journal of nutrition},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101784},
doi = {10.1016/j.tjnut.2026.101784},
pmid = {42600988},
issn = {1541-6100},
abstract = {Grape pomace (GP) is a major byproduct of the wine industry, rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, anthocyanins (ACYs), and fiber, all of which have important functional properties. GP is composed of stalks, seeds, and skins. ACYs, a major component of GP, are key contributors to its functional properties, particularly in supporting cardiovascular health. However, a significant challenge with ACYs is their limited stability and bioavailability. This review explores the chemistry, extraction, and purification of ACYs, primarily from GP, where they are often bound within the plant cell wall. The cell wall matrix hinders the release and absorption of ACYs in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in low natural bioavailability. Non-thermal extraction techniques designed to liberate ACYs from this matrix are highlighted for their potential to enhance bioavailability. The review also discusses encapsulation methods and novel approaches such as electrospinning, which may further improve ACY stability and controlled release. Additionally, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of GP, its influence on short-chain fatty acid production, and findings from recent in vitro, in vivo, and human studies are summarized. Finally, the potential mechanisms by which ACYs in GP may benefit cardiovascular health are explored. Nonetheless, further research is needed to clarify the specific metabolites, underlying mechanisms, and unique properties of ACYs found in GP.},
}

@article {pmid42601049,
year = {2026},
author = {Dixit, S and Dixit, S and Rao, YK and Das, A},
title = {Late-Onset Neonatal Sepsis: Contemporary Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Precision Therapeutics.},
journal = {American journal of perinatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1055/a-2938-3600},
pmid = {42601049},
issn = {1098-8785},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Late-onset neonatal sepsis (LOS) remains a major challenge in modern neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), disproportionately affecting very low birth weight (VLBW) and extremely preterm infants. Despite advances in perinatal care, LOS continues to contribute to high mortality, prolonged hospitalization, and long-term neurodevelopmental impairment. Emerging trends-including evolving pathogen profiles, increased antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and widespread microbiome disruption-highlight persistent clinical and public health concerns. This review synthesizes current evidence on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of LOS, with emphasis on evolving diagnostics, antimicrobial stewardship, prevention strategies, and emerging precision approaches. Key gaps and research priorities are highlighted to inform future clinical practice and neonatal health policy.

STUDY DESIGN: This narrative review synthesizes contemporary literature, including multicenter cohort studies, national registries, and emerging diagnostic and predictive technologies.

RESULTS: LOS arises from the complex interplay between neonatal immune immaturity, invasive NICU interventions, and microbial exposure. Gram-positive organisms predominate in high-income settings, while multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens are increasingly reported in low- and middle-income countries, contributing to higher morbidity and mortality. Early-life antibiotic exposure and dysbiosis compromise the gut microbiome, further increasing susceptibility. Clinical recognition remains challenging due to nonspecific signs, often leading to delayed or excessive empiric antibiotic therapy. Rapid molecular diagnostics, emerging predictive tools, including early-warning models, and serial biomarker monitoring offer opportunities for pathogen-directed therapy, individualized pharmacokinetic optimization, and safe antimicrobial stewardship. Prevention through central-line bundles, human milk feeding, probiotics, strict hand hygiene, and context-specific infection-control strategies remains central to reducing LOS incidence.

CONCLUSIONS: LOS represents a multifactorial syndrome with profound implications for survival and neurodevelopment in preterm and VLBW infants. Effective management requires integration of precision diagnostics, individualized therapy, microbiome-preserving strategies, neuroprotective interventions, and equitable implementation of prevention and stewardship programs. Bridging mechanistic understanding with scalable, context-sensitive approaches is critical to improving survival, reducing morbidity, and optimizing long-term outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid42601164,
year = {2026},
author = {Spern, CJ and Hummerick, ME and Khodadad, CL and Morales, CJ and Dixit, AR and Spencer, LE and Mitchell, CA and Morrow, RC and Wheeler, RM and Massa, GD},
title = {The microbial communities of a tomato crop grown in Veggie under different lighting regimes on the International Space Station.},
journal = {Life sciences in space research},
volume = {52},
number = {},
pages = {84-97},
doi = {10.1016/j.lssr.2026.01.010},
pmid = {42601164},
issn = {2214-5532},
mesh = {*Solanum lycopersicum/microbiology/growth & development/radiation effects ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Lighting ; Space Flight ; Red Light ; Bacteria/genetics/isolation & purification ; Spacecraft ; *Microbiota ; Blue Light ; Fungi/genetics/isolation & purification ; Light ; },
abstract = {Customized lighting treatments are being investigated to help optimize space crop production. The VEG-05 experiment on the International Space Station (ISS) investigated the effect of red-rich and blue-rich lighting in the Veggie plant-growth chamber on the microbial communities of a dwarf tomato variety Solanum lycopersicum cv. Red Robin. The microbial communities were investigated using bacterial 16S rRNA and fungal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing methods to identify bacterial and fungal communities from tomato fruit, leaves, roots, rooting substrate, and Veggie chamber surfaces grown under red-rich or blue-rich lighting. The plants were also screened using culture-based methods for potential food-borne pathogens and plate counts for bacteria and fungi. Differences in microbial load were compared between lighting conditions, as well as between ISS and ground-control treatments. Fruit production was lower on ISS-grown plants, thus limiting the number of samples available for analyses from flight plants. These analyses determined the microbiological food safety for tomato plants grown under a red-rich or a blue-rich lighting treatment and microgravity conditions. The potential core microbiome for flight tomato plants included the genera Rhizobium, Azospirillum, Burkholderia, Dyadobacter, Methylobacterium/Methylorubrum, Sphingomonas, and the family Erwiniacea. Pseudomonas was the only genus common to all ground-control plants, due to low microbial diversity on leaf samples. Culture-based pathogen screening, corroborated by 16S rRNA and ITS sequencing, yielded negative results. Our results indicate flight microbial communities show increased colonization compared to ground controls, and this increase was associated with red-rich light treatment more so than blue-rich light treatment. This experiment provides valuable data for a fruiting crop grown on the ISS and how the plant microbial community may change due to different lighting conditions.},
}

*Solanum lycopersicum/microbiology/growth & development/radiation effects
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Lighting
Space Flight
Red Light
Bacteria/genetics/isolation & purification
Spacecraft
*Microbiota
Blue Light
Fungi/genetics/isolation & purification
Light

@article {pmid42601617,
year = {2026},
author = {Kim, TL and Shin, CG and Oh, SY and Lee, HJ and Kwak, S and Kwon, TG and Kim, JW and Choi, SY and Hong, SH},
title = {Enhanced salivary correlation between Streptococcus mutans and herpes simplex virus-1 in oral squamous cell carcinoma: a case-control study.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42601617},
issn = {1472-6831},
support = {2022R1A2C2006728//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Herpesvirus 1, Human/isolation & purification ; *Saliva/microbiology/virology ; Case-Control Studies ; Male ; Female ; *Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/microbiology/virology ; *Streptococcus mutans/isolation & purification ; *Mouth Neoplasms/microbiology/virology ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Adult ; Viral Envelope Proteins ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Streptococcus mutans modulates local immune responses in the oral mucosa and has been implicated in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) pathogenesis. Emerging evidence suggests that certain oral bacteria can influence viral infections through immune modulation. This case-control study aimed to determine whether the correlation between S. mutans and herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) differs between OSCC patients and non-tumor controls, thereby elucidating potential bacterial-viral association in the tumor microenvironment.

METHODS: Unstimulated whole saliva samples were collected from 121 individuals, including 60 non-tumor controls and 61 OSCC patients. Real-time qPCR was used to quantify S. mutans 16S rRNA abundance and HSV-1 glycoprotein D (gD) mRNA levels. Mann-Whitney U tests assessed differences between groups, and Pearson's correlation analyses evaluated bacterial-viral associations. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) adjusted for age and sex. Subgroup analyses examined correlations across clinical and demographic factors.

RESULTS: Salivary S. mutans 16S rRNA abundance and HSV-1 gD mRNA levels were significantly higher in OSCC patients than in controls (P = 0.0145 and P = 0.0257, respectively). A moderate correlation was observed between S. mutans and HSV-1 in non-tumor controls (r = 0.3806, P = 0.0027), whereas a substantially stronger correlation was evident in OSCC patients (r = 0.7878, P < 0.0001). Subgroup analyses revealed particularly strong correlations in individuals with alcohol consumption (r = 0.9109, P < 0.0001) and smoking history (r = 0.9062, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates a significantly stronger association between S. mutans and HSV-1 in OSCC than in non-tumor controls. These findings suggest that salivary bacterial-viral co-enrichment warrants further evaluation as a potential biomarker pair and may inform future microbiome-based strategies for OSCC risk assessment and prevention.},
}

Humans
*Herpesvirus 1, Human/isolation & purification
*Saliva/microbiology/virology
Case-Control Studies
Male
Female
*Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/microbiology/virology
*Streptococcus mutans/isolation & purification
*Mouth Neoplasms/microbiology/virology
Middle Aged
Aged
Adult
Viral Envelope Proteins

@article {pmid42601804,
year = {2026},
author = {Hunter, A and Ariaee, A and Wignall, A and Paxton, K and Bremmell, K and Prestidge, C and Joyce, P},
title = {Optimizing delivery to the gastrointestinal tract: a mechanistic approach to nutraceutical design and development.},
journal = {Expert opinion on drug delivery},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/17425247.2026.2719683},
pmid = {42601804},
issn = {1744-7593},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Nutraceuticals have garnered increasing scientific and commercial interest for their potential roles in health promotion, disease prevention and adjunctive disease management. However, the complex physicochemical and biological environment of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract presents formidable barriers to their effective oral delivery, contributing to a persistent gap between preclinical promise and clinical efficacy. A mechanistic understanding of GI physiology, nutraceutical-specific delivery challenges and available formulation strategies is therefore essential to advance the field.

AREAS COVERED: Preclinical and clinical studies exploring the oral delivery of nutraceuticals were identified through targeted PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science searches to examine the GI tract as a dynamic delivery environment. Nutraceuticals are classified according to their primary delivery challenges, including lipophilicity, chemical and enzymatic lability and requirements for colon-targeted or microbiome-directed delivery. Formulation strategies are reviewed mechanistically, with particular attention to lipid-based systems, polymeric nanoparticles, hydrogel and hybrid biomaterials and colon-targeted delivery platforms.

EXPERT OPINION: Advancing nutraceutical science requires moving toward a formulation-driven approach to overcome the biological barriers faced by oral delivery. There is a critical need for regulatory oversight to ensure that marketed claims are backed by scientific evidence relating to nutraceutical pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and safety evaluations.},
}

@article {pmid42601860,
year = {2026},
author = {Georgiadou, N and Sultan, O and Harris, BHL and Koizia, LJ},
title = {Commentary: Correlation between the gut microbiota composition and cognitive frailty: a case-control study in community-dwelling older adults.},
journal = {Frontiers in nutrition},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1929141},
pmid = {42601860},
issn = {2296-861X},
}

@article {pmid42601898,
year = {2026},
author = {Iorizzo, M and Pannella, G and Succi, M and Ganassi, S and Di Criscio, D and Tedino, C and Albanese, G and De Cristofaro, A},
title = {Seasonal dynamics of the gut microbiota in Apis mellifera ligustica: a two-year longitudinal study.},
journal = {Frontiers in insect science},
volume = {6},
number = {},
pages = {1920906},
pmid = {42601898},
issn = {2673-8600},
abstract = {The honey bee gut microbiota plays a crucial role in host nutrition, immunity, and colony health, yet the relative influence of seasonal and colony-specific factors on its long-term dynamics remains incompletely understood. This study investigated temporal variation in the gut bacterial community of three Apis mellifera ligustica colonies maintained in the same apiary and monitored over two consecutive years (2022-2023). Worker bees were sampled during eight seasonal periods, and gut microbiota composition was characterized using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Across all sampling periods, the microbiome was consistently dominated by the characteristic honey bee-associated genera Gilliamella, Snodgrassella, Bartonella, Frischella, Commensalibacter, and Lactobacillus, indicating the persistence of a conserved core bacterial community. Seasonal variation was primarily associated with changes in the relative abundance of dominant taxa rather than with major changes in community composition. In particular, Gilliamella apicola and Snodgrassella alvi exhibited complementary seasonal patterns, with Gilliamella reaching its highest abundance during autumn, particularly in autumn 2023, whereas Snodgrassella predominated during spring and winter. Alpha-diversity metrics (Observed OTUs, Chao1, Shannon, and Simpson indices) showed limited seasonal variation, whereas beta-diversity analyses detected significant differences in community composition among seasons. Principal Coordinates Analysis and PERMANOVA identified season as the factor most strongly associated with microbiome variation, while colony identity did not significantly influence bacterial community composition under the standardized experimental conditions adopted in this study. Overall, these findings show that the gut microbiome of A. mellifera ligustica maintains a conserved core bacterial community while exhibiting reproducible seasonal variation in the relative abundance of its dominant members. This study provides a longitudinal baseline for future investigations aimed at understanding the ecological mechanisms underlying seasonal microbiome dynamics and their relationship with honey bee biology and environmental change.},
}

@article {pmid42601899,
year = {2026},
author = {Jalal, H and Pompei, L and Giammarco, M and Malik, MI and Akram, S and Akram, MZ and Di Domenico, M and Ghiaccio, F and Colleluori, R and Pezzi, P and Fusaro, I},
title = {L-carvone supplementation reduces methane production and modulates rumen fermentation, digestibility and microbial communities in vitro.},
journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1900394},
pmid = {42601899},
issn = {2297-1769},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Natural feed additives are increasingly explored to reduce ruminal methane emissions. This study evaluated L-carvone (LC), a monoterpene compound present in essential oils, for its effects at different inclusion levels on rumen fermentation, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), methane production, and microbiota composition.

METHODS: Three treatments were tested: a basal diet (total mixed ration; TMR + 0 μL/L LC), LC250 (TMR + 250 μL/L LC), and LC500 (TMR + 500 μL/L LC), using a 59:41 concentrate-to-forage substrate. Fermentation parameters were analysed using the Gas Endeavour system and 16 S rRNA gene sequencing was applied to investigate the ruminal microbiota profile. Data were analysed using linear mixed models, with treatment included as a fixed effect and experimental runs as a random effect. Pairwise comparisons were conducted using Bonferroni correction, with p value below 0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS: Total gas production decreased progressively with increasing LC inclusion (p < 0.001), whereas methane production was significantly reduced only in LC500 (p < 0.001). LC500 reduced methane production by 28% compared with TMR (p < 0.001) and decreased IVDMD by approximately 15%, while LC250 showed a numerical but non-significant reduction in methane production without affecting IVDMD. Total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) concentration was lower in LC500compared with TMR (p < 0.01), whereas LC250 showed intermediate values. This reduction was mainly due to lower propionate, iso-butyrate, and iso-valerate concentrations. The proportion of butyrate increased in LC500 (p < 0.01). In addition, ammonia nitrogen concentration was lower in LC500 than in LC250 (p = 0.040), while TMR remained intermediate. At the phylum level, increasing LC supplementation reduced the abundance of Bacteroidota and increased Firmicutes. At the genus level, Prevotella abundance decreased with LC inclusion, whereas butyrate-producing genera including Butyrivibrio, Pseudobutyrivibrio, and Ruminococcus increased. Alpha diversity analysis showed that richness indices (observed OTUs and Faith's phylogenetic diversity) were highest in LC250, whereas Shannon diversity and Pielou's evenness were similarly higher in LC250 and LC500 compared with TMR.

CONCLUSION: The LC reduced methane production during a 24-h in vitro rumen fermentation while altering rumen fermentation characteristics, as evidenced by lower total gas production, IVDMD, and VFA concentrations at the highest inclusion level. These changes were accompanied by shifts in the rumen microbiota, including a reduced abundance of Euryarchaeota, a phylum associated with methanogenic archaea. Therefore, optimizing the inclusion level of LC is essential to achieve methane mitigation while minimizing adverse effects on feed digestion.},
}

@article {pmid42601972,
year = {2026},
author = {Latheef, F and Suthindhiran, K},
title = {Human relevant platforms for cutaneous wound healing research: current landscape, translational gaps, and emerging frontiers.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1917429},
pmid = {42601972},
issn = {2296-4185},
abstract = {Cutaneous wound healing is a dynamic, multicellular process that unfolds across four interrelated phases - haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodellingeach governed by precise intercellular signalling that remains incompletely understood in its human context. Animal models and two-dimensional cell cultures have shaped much of what we know about wound biology, yet both consistently fall short when the question moves from mechanism to translation. They fail to capture the structural organisation of human skin, the particular rhythms of human immune activation and resolution, and above all the multifactorial pathology that makes chronic wounds-diabetic foot ulcers especially, so resistant to treatment. This review traces the development of human-relevant alternative models as a coherent scientific response to those failures: from scratch assays and monocultures through to three-dimensional reconstructed equivalents, organoid platforms, ex vivo tissue preparations, and skin-on-a-chip systems capable of dynamic perfusion and real-time wound monitoring. We assess each class of model not simply on its merits but on what specific biological gap it was designed to close and what gaps remain. Emerging analytical frameworks-multi-omics integration, spatial transcriptomics, microbiome and biofilm modelling, multi-organ-on-a-chip architectures, artificial intelligence, and neuro-immune crosstalk -are examined as the next Frontier. These findings show that no single platform will resolve the translational deficit; what is required is a deliberately combinatorial paradigm in which complementary systems are deployed in tiered sequence, each contributing the biological information it is best positioned to generate.},
}

@article {pmid42601985,
year = {2026},
author = {Winters, AD and Rudagi, E and Koka, O and Angoa-Perez, M},
title = {Persistent gut microbiota dysbiosis and metabolic remodeling after ceftriaxone exposure in mice: a cross-study re-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1822390},
pmid = {42601985},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Animals ; *Ceftriaxone/adverse effects/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *Dysbiosis/chemically induced/microbiology ; Mice ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/adverse effects/administration & dosage/pharmacology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Bacteria/classification/genetics/drug effects ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Broad-spectrum antibiotics are known to disrupt the gut microbial environment, which can lead to sustained physiological consequences. Ceftriaxone (CTX) is a β-lactam antibiotic widely used in neuroscience research to enhance expression of the glutamate transporter GLT-1, a key regulator of excitatory neurotransmission in the brain. However, CTX also induces marked alterations in gut microbial composition, yet the consistency and functional consequences of these changes across studies remain poorly defined.

METHODS: Here, we conducted a cross-study re-analysis of four independent, publicly available murine 16S rRNA gene sequencing datasets to identify robust microbial and metabolic responses to CTX exposure. Using a bioinformatic pipeline for taxonomic annotation and functional inference, we evaluated microbial diversity, community composition, and predicted functional pathways across studies.

RESULTS: CTX treatment consistently reduced gut microbial diversity and altered community composition relative to controls, with only partial recovery over time. Predicted microbial functions were extensively remodeled, with CTX-exposed communities showing enrichment in pathways related to aromatic compound and amino acid metabolism, amine metabolism, and stress response, whereas control communities retained higher biosynthetic potential.

DISCUSSION: These findings demonstrate that CTX exposure induces persistent, system-level restructuring of the gut microbiome, with potential detriment to host physiology.},
}

Animals
*Ceftriaxone/adverse effects/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*Dysbiosis/chemically induced/microbiology
Mice
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/adverse effects/administration & dosage/pharmacology
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Bacteria/classification/genetics/drug effects

@article {pmid42602100,
year = {2026},
author = {Burnet, PWJ},
title = {Microbial neuroscience: The gut microbiota as a cognitive layer.},
journal = {Trends open},
volume = {1},
number = {2},
pages = {109-121},
pmid = {42602100},
issn = {3117-3470},
abstract = {Cognition is traditionally viewed as a brain-centred process, with gut microbes treated primarily as modulators of physiology and behaviour. Recent advances in microbiome research suggest that microbial communities can exhibit history-dependent functional states, adapt their outputs, and dynamically interact with neural systems. This opinion article proposes a distributed model of cognition in which the gut microbiota acts as an intermediate information-processing layer that may influence cognitive states through memory-like persistence and closed-loop feedback with the brain. By integrating concepts from systems neuroscience, microbiology, and cognitive theory, this framework reframes the microbiota as a potential functional contributor to cognition and outlines experimental approaches for testing causal microbiota-gut-brain interactions in behaviour and decision-making.},
}

@article {pmid42602126,
year = {2026},
author = {Ortúzar, M and Formariz, V and Suescún-Sepúlveda, JA and González-Hernández, M and Riesco, R and Garrido-Oter, R and Trujillo, ME},
title = {From natural assemblages to synthetic communities in the Lupinus microbiome.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1891479},
pmid = {42602126},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Plant roots harbour complex microbial communities that enhance nutrient acquisition, stress tolerance, and pathogen defence, yet their assembly and functional dynamics remain incompletely understood.

RESULTS: In this work, we isolated over 700 bacterial strains from wild Lupinus angustifolius across multiple compartments and soil types, capturing both dominant and rare bacterial taxa. Using co-occurrence network analysis, we selected representative strains to assemble synthetic communities (SynComs) of varying complexity, which were inoculated under sterile and non-sterile conditions. Plants were inoculated with SynComs of increasing complexity under both non-sterile soil and gnotobiotic conditions. SynCom inoculation reshaped root-associated microbiota, moderately influenced the rhizosphere, and had limited impact on bulk soil communities. Increasing SynCom complexity enhanced plant growth and triggered host transcriptional responses involving hormone signaling, defence pathways, and metabolic reprogramming.

DISCUSSION: These findings indicate that soil-driven filtering and microbial interactions govern microbiome assembly and plant responses. Incorporating taxa with distinct ecological roles, including low-abundance members, improves SynCom functionality and advances understanding of plant-microbe interactions in natural and agricultural systems.},
}

@article {pmid42602177,
year = {2026},
author = {Azimzadeh, M and Ababzadeh, S and Kahaki, AG and Babaei, SMH and Seyedebrahimi, R and Farsani, ME},
title = {The Gut-Brain Axis in Neurodegeneration: Mechanistic Links Between Dysbiosis and Neuropathology.},
journal = {Iranian journal of pathology},
volume = {21},
number = {4},
pages = {507-522},
pmid = {42602177},
issn = {1735-5303},
abstract = {BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: The gut-brain axis is essentially a two-way communication system that physically connects the brain and the intestinal tract. The connection is mediated through a series of pathways, including neural, endocrine, and immune pathways. Gut dysbiosis, which is explained as an imbalance in the microbial community, has been linked to the causation of various neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. However, the pathological mechanisms in the brain are only partially known. The present review outlines the process of gut dysbiosis and neurodegeneration, detailing the roles of protein aggregation, neuroinflammation, barrier disruption, and neuroglial dysfunction. Then, extending the comparison to a range of neurodegenerative diseases, we discuss the possibility of common pathway therapeutics and actual microbiome-based treatment options planning from the standpoint of microbiome-directed interventions.

CONTENT/FINDINGS: Gut dysbiosis triggers a definable cascade, starting with the disruption of the intestinal barrier and increased permeability (leaky gut), which allows bacterial products (lipopolysaccharides, bacterial amyloids) and pro-inflammatory cytokines to enter systemic circulation. Such peripheral changes weaken the blood-brain barrier and thus allow these factors to access the CNS, where they lead to neuroglial dysfunction (microglial priming, astrocytic reactivity, and oligodendrocyte injury) by disruption of glial homeostasis. CNS glial cell malfunction leads to the development of proteinopathies characteristic of each disease: amyloid and tau hyperphosphorylation in Alzheimer's disease through BACE1 upregulation and kinase activation; synuclein in Parkinson's disease via molecular mimicry, oxidative stress, and impaired clearance; and demyelination in multiple sclerosis through oligodendrocyte apoptosis. Oral bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis aggravate this inflammatory loop through the direct invasion of the CNS and proteolytic cleavage of amyloid and tau. The vagus nerve is yet another pathway through which gut-derived inflammatory signals and pathological synuclein can be transmitted to the brain.

CONCLUSION: The gut microbiome is more than just a correlate of neurodegeneration; it actively promotes neurodegenerative diseases through pathways that can be mechanistically defined. Microbiome-targeted interventions such as dietary changes, precision probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and anti-inflammatory agents offer a measure of hope for changing these pathological processes. Future studies need to be directed at determining the time sequence of cause and effect, finding dependable microbiota-based biomarkers, and formulating tailored strategies that can account for individual microbial composition variability, genetic susceptibility, and environmental exposures. A deeper understanding of the gut-brain axis from this mechanistic perspective could eventually lead to the prevention or postponement of neurodegeneration.},
}

@article {pmid42602225,
year = {2026},
author = {Laadsi, I and Abdelrahman, M and Ulloa, M and Fokar, M and Jobe, TO},
title = {Leveraging soil microbiome diversity for the management of highly virulent Fusarium wilt (FOV4) in cotton.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1856023},
pmid = {42602225},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Cotton (Gossypium spp.) is a globally important crop increasingly threatened by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum race 4 (FOV4), a soil-borne pathogen responsible for Fusarium wilt. FOV4 has negatively affected cotton production in California and was confirmed in the far west Texas region of El Paso, TX in 2017, where it has caused similar disruptions. Thus, there is an urgent need for improved disease management and the development of resistant commercial cotton cultivars to maintain agricultural productivity.

METHODS: To understand the relationships among soil properties, fungal communities, and disease incidence, we examined the elemental composition and fungal microbiome of five cotton fields in the lower valley of El Paso, Texas region, having varying levels of Fusarium wilt incidence. Comparisons between high Fusarium wilt incidence fields (F1, F2, and F5) and low Fusarium wilt incidence fields (F3 and F4) were performed. Metabarcoding analyses identified marked differences in fungal community composition and diversity between the fields.

RESULTS: Alpha diversity metrics indicated higher fungal diversity and evenness in the low Fusarium wilt incidence field F4, suggesting that high fungal diversity contributes to decreased disease incidence. In contrast, high Fusarium wilt incidence fields (F1, F2, and F5) exhibited lower diversity, indicative of a less resilient fungal ecosystem. Beta diversity analyses further confirmed the distinct fungal community composition between soils with contrasting Fusarium wilt incidence. Taxonomic profiling showed that the low Fusarium wilt incidence field F4 harbored beneficial fungal taxa, including Actinomucor, Fusarium (potentially non-pathogenic species), Penicillium, Preussia, and Pseudeurotium, generally recognized for their contributions to soil health and potential to suppress pathogenic organisms. In contrast, the high Fusarium wilt incidence fields were dominated by genera associated with plant pathogenicity, such as Alternaria, Cladosporium, and Stachybotrys, contributing to the higher disease prevalence observed.

DISCUSSION: These findings underscore the crucial role of fungal diversity and soil chemical composition in influencing the incidence of Fusarium wilt in cotton. Soils with low Fusarium wilt incidence, characterized by diverse and complex fungal communities, may suppress the establishment and proliferation of pathogens. Our results provide insights for developing targeted soil management practices and enhancing cotton resilience, essential for developing sustainable disease management strategies and breeding resistant cultivars.},
}

@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 {pmid42602616,
year = {2026},
author = {Basting, CM and Schroeder, TA and Shields-Cutler, R and Swanson, E and Guerrero, C and Hemmila, CR and Broedlow, CA and Chakrawarti, A and Velez, A and Cromarty, R and Riva, A and Torre, A and Lai, A and Schifanella, L and Klatt, NR},
title = {Longitudinal multi-omic dynamics in hospitalized COVID-19 patients based on disease severity.},
journal = {Gut microbes reports},
volume = {3},
number = {1},
pages = {2712728},
pmid = {42602616},
issn = {2993-3935},
abstract = {Despite a decline in global COVID-19 cases, severe disease requiring hospitalization remains a significant health burden. Microbial dysbiosis and microbial translocation have been implicated in COVID-19 severity through their contributions to systemic inflammation, yet the temporal dynamics of the microbiome and related metabolites across disease severity are not well defined. To address this, we conducted a longitudinal study of 22 hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Milan, Italy, classified as moderate, severe, or critical by the WHO criteria. Rectal and nasal microbiomes, plasma cytokines, bile acids, fatty acids, and gut barrier damage markers were measured at up to three timepoints over an average of 9 d. Critically ill patients exhibited sustained elevations in pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα), increased gut barrier damage markers (LBP, zonulin, and sCD14), early depletion of beneficial commensals (including Faecalibacterium prausnitzii), and expansion of opportunistic pathogens such as Hungatella hathewayi and Erysipelatoclostridium ramosum. These microbial shifts were accompanied by the progressive loss of secondary and conjugated bile acids and increased levels of branched- and medium-chain fatty acids. Correlation analyses linked commensal taxa to reduced gut barrier damage and opportunistic pathogens to IL-6. Together, these findings define distinct trajectories associated with COVID-19 severity and highlight the importance of early interventions targeting microbial dysbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid42602773,
year = {2026},
author = {Yuan, Z and Huang, J and Guo, J and Zhang, B and Bei, W and Wang, Y and Li, Y and Xin, H and Xing, W and Huang, Y and Sun, L and Deng, Z},
title = {Mechanically activated zinc oxide enhances growth performance and protects against diarrhea with potentially regulating gut microbiota in weaned piglets.},
journal = {Animal nutrition (Zhongguo xu mu shou yi xue hui)},
volume = {26},
number = {},
pages = {652-664},
pmid = {42602773},
issn = {2405-6383},
abstract = {High pharmacological doses of zinc oxide (ZnO) are widely used to control post-weaning diarrhea, but environmental pollution and potential adverse effects necessitate the search for effective low-dose alternatives. This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary level of mechanically activated zinc oxide on growth performance and diarrhea in weaned piglets. A total of 1152 healthy weaned piglets (6.72 ± 0.63 kg) at 21 d of age were randomly assigned to six treatment groups with six replicates of 32 pigs per pen. Piglets received either a basal diet (BD), the BD supplemented with 100, 200, 400, or 600 mg Zn/kg mechanically activated zinc oxide (100 Zn, 200 Zn, 400 Zn, and 600 Zn), or the BD supplemented with 1600 mg Zn/kg conventional ZnO (1600 Zn) over a 28-d feeding period. Compared with the BD group, dietary 400 Zn supplementation significantly increased average daily gain during d 1 to 14, and decreased the feed/gain ratio during d 1 to 14 and d 1 to 28 (P < 0.05). Additionally, dietary 400 Zn supplementation consistently decreased the diarrhea rate regardless of the experimental period (P = 0.001). Notably, these effects are comparable to those observed with 1600 Zn treatment. Moreover, compared to 1600 Zn group, 400 or 600 Zn supplementation significantly reduced interleukin-6 (IL-6) content and diamine oxidase (DAO) activity, as well as significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (P < 0.05) in serum at d 28. Conversely, no significant differences were observed in serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) concentrations between the 400 or 600 Zn groups and the 1600 Zn group throughout the experimental period (P > 0.05). Further gut microbiome and serum metabolomic analysis found that the abundances of Lactobacillus, Ligilactobacillus, and Roseburia increased and tryptophan metabolism pathway was enriched by 400 Zn supplementation. Furthermore, the differential metabolites involved in tryptophan metabolism significantly correlated with most of differential genera. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with mechanically activated zinc oxide at 400 mg Zn/kg could exerted a certain positive effect on the growth performance of weaned piglets, which was comparable to or even superior to that of 1600 mg Zn/kg ZnO, indicating that mechanically activated zinc oxide could serve as an effective alternative to high-dose ZnO used in weaned piglets.},
}

@article {pmid42602801,
year = {2026},
author = {Xiong, Y and Huang, P and Wang, J and Zhao, Y and Zhang, J and Wang, D and Zhang, H},
title = {Qing-Re-Qu-Shi formula improves clinical outcomes and is accompanied by gut microbiota and microbial metabolite remodeling in adults with moderate atopic dermatitis: a randomized placebo-controlled multi-omics trial.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1847003},
pmid = {42602801},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The gut-skin axis is increasingly implicated in atopic dermatitis (AD), but randomized adult studies linking clinical response to paired gut microbiome and circulating metabolite profiling remain limited. We evaluated Qing-Re-Qu-Shi formula in adults with moderate AD and examined associated microbiome and serum metabolite changes.

METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 12-week trial, 152 adults with moderate AD were assigned 1:1 to Qing-Re-Qu-Shi formula or placebo. Outcomes included Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), SCORAD, Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM), pruritus numerical rating scale (NRS), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and responder rates. The primary clinical analysis followed the intention-to-treat principle. Paired fecal 16S rRNA sequencing and targeted serum metabolomics were performed in the biospecimen subset. Differential feature analyses adjusted for baseline level, age, and sex; β diversity was assessed using repeated-measures-aware PERMANOVA.

RESULTS: All randomized participants were included in clinical analyses; 124 contributed paired fecal and serum specimens, and 102 also had week-12 clinical data for cross-domain analyses. Compared with placebo, Qing-Re-Qu-Shi produced greater week-12 improvements in EASI (adjusted mean difference, -3.78; 95% CI, -4.54 to -3.01), SCORAD (-9.73; 95% CI, -11.54 to -7.93), POEM (-3.39; 95% CI, -4.06 to -2.73), pruritus NRS (-0.94; 95% CI, -1.15 to -0.72), and DLQI (-2.86; 95% CI, -3.47 to -2.26) (all p < 0.001). EASI-50 and EASI-75 responses were more frequent with Qing-Re-Qu-Shi. Shannon diversity changed little, whereas β diversity showed a small but significant group-by-time effect (p = 0.001, R [2] = 0.016). Full-feature CLR analyses identified higher Blautia, Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Agathobacter and lower Escherichia/Shigella, Enterococcus, Prevotella, and Collinsella after false-discovery-rate correction. Serum metabolomics showed higher short-chain fatty acid and indole-related signals and lower kynurenine-related signals. Cross-domain correlations aligned these changes with greater symptom improvement.

CONCLUSION: Qing-Re-Qu-Shi formula improved clinical severity and patient-reported outcomes in adults with moderate AD. These benefits were accompanied by selective gut microbial remodeling and circulating microbiota-related metabolite changes, supporting an associative link between clinical improvement and gut ecosystem remodeling rather than proving causality.},
}

@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 {pmid42603099,
year = {2026},
author = {Huerta Arana, M and Wiegand, C and Omrani, O and Fabri, M},
title = {The microbiome in human skin aging.},
journal = {FEBS letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/1873-3468.70435},
pmid = {42603099},
issn = {1873-3468},
abstract = {Microbiome dysbiosis correlates with aging-associated pathological skin conditions, and our understanding of how the microbiome regulates skin aging at a molecular level is rapidly advancing. Classical hallmarks of skin aging, including genomic instability and telomere attrition, loss of proteostasis, epigenetic alterations, and altered intercellular communication, are critically regulated by the microbiome. Oxidative stress represents a key factor implicated in virtually all hallmarks of skin aging. Meanwhile, recent data underscore the role of metabolism in intercellular communication and aging. Here, we examine current evidence linking the skin microbiome to such molecular events in the aging skin.},
}

@article {pmid42593569,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Q and Liu, W},
title = {Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targeting of the Macrophage Metabolic-Epigenetic Interaction Network in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.},
journal = {Cell biochemistry and biophysics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42593569},
issn = {1559-0283},
support = {No.82560013//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Pulmonary macrophages serve as one of the primary mediators of the complex and persistent inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While driven by multiple mechanisms-including oxidative stress pathways, macrophage heterogeneity, microbiome interactions, and the dynamics of acute exacerbations-the intrinsic drivers promoting continuous inflammatory amplification remain incompletely defined. Recent findings point to a bidirectional relationship between cellular metabolism and epigenetic regulation as a driver of this abnormal activation. This review outlines the biochemical components of this crosstalk, linking shifts in glucose, lipid, and glutamine metabolism to chromatin remodeling events. We detail four major molecular axes: α-ketoglutarate-dependent DNA methylation, NAD[+]/SIRT1-mediated deacetylation, the acetyl-CoA-fueled histone acetylation feedback loop, and the regulatory influence of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Together, these pathways create a self-sustaining cycle where altered metabolic fluxes reshape the epigenetic landscape, which subsequently reinforces the initial metabolic abnormalities. This loop helps establish a stable "functional memory" in macrophages, accelerating alveolar damage. Finally, we discuss current gaps, including the need for spatial mapping and multi-omics integration, and evaluate how emerging targeted therapies-such as dual-inhibitors, PROTACs, and RNA-based treatments-could disrupt this pathogenic loop to provide novel preclinical strategies for COPD management.},
}

@article {pmid42593705,
year = {2026},
author = {Wei, W and Zhou, L and Huang, Y and Lu, Z and Zhang, R and Zeng, M and Wang, X},
title = {Association Between Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis and Bilirubin Metabolism Dysregulation in Children with Heart Failure.},
journal = {Journal of cardiovascular translational research},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42593705},
issn = {1937-5395},
mesh = {Humans ; *Heart Failure/microbiology/diagnosis/blood ; *Bilirubin/blood ; *Dysbiosis ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Female ; Child, Preschool ; Male ; Child ; Case-Control Studies ; Biomarkers/blood ; Feces/microbiology ; Age Factors ; Metabolomics ; Infant ; Ribotyping ; Clostridium/genetics ; Adolescent ; Eubacteriales ; },
abstract = {Patients with heart failure (HF) demonstrate dysregulation in bilirubin metabolism. The specific characteristics of intestinal bilirubin metabolism in HF remain unclear. This study involved metagenomic sequencing and metabolomic profiling of fecal samples from 45 children with HF and 32 healthy children. Serum total bilirubin levels were 11.3umol/L, 19.4umol/L and 5.0umol/L in HF New York Heart Association (NYHA) I-II, NYHA III-IV and control group (p < 0.001), and the median gut microbiome health index (GMHI) were - 0.78, -1.53 and 0.09 in each (p < 0.001). The abundance of 2 bacteria species containing bilirubin reductase, Ruminococcus gnavus (p = 0.028) and Clostridium sp.M62/1 (p = 0.002) significantly decreased in NYHA III-IV group. The gut downstream bilirubin products, urobilinogen and stercobilin were decreased in the HF group; while the upstream bilirubin products, unconjugated and conjugated bilirubin increased. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiome and the decrease of bilirubin reductase containing bacteria in pediatric HF patients related to a reduction in gut bilirubin metabolism.},
}

Humans
*Heart Failure/microbiology/diagnosis/blood
*Bilirubin/blood
*Dysbiosis
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Female
Child, Preschool
Male
Child
Case-Control Studies
Biomarkers/blood
Feces/microbiology
Age Factors
Metabolomics
Infant
Ribotyping
Clostridium/genetics
Adolescent
Eubacteriales

@article {pmid42594080,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, X and Yu, D and Cui, Y and Chi, Y and Yan, Z and Song, Y and Hou, L and Qin, J and Zhang, J and Wang, Y and Wei, W and Di, H},
title = {Integrated multi-omics reveals dysbiosis in hemodialysis patients: A multi-center study.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {21},
number = {8},
pages = {e0355698},
pmid = {42594080},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *Renal Dialysis/adverse effects ; Multiomics ; *Dysbiosis/metabolism/microbiology/etiology ; Case-Control Studies ; Female ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Metabolome ; Feces/microbiology ; Aged ; Metabolomics ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The gut microbiome-metabolome interplay in hemodialysis (HD) patients remains poorly characterized. Using multi-omics approaches, we compared HD patients with healthy controls (HC) to identify microbial signatures, metabolic perturbations, and their integrated correlations.

METHODS: This case-control study included 192 participants (96 HD-HC pairs under identical dietary and living conditions). The gut microbiota composition was analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing, and fecal metabolomes were analyzed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-HRMS). A multi-omics analysis was conducted utilizing Spearman correlation analysis, Mantel test analysis, and differential functional pathway analysis.

RESULTS: We observed significant differences in gut microbiota composition between the HD and HC groups, such as Ruminococcus and Bifidobacterium. Comparative analysis revealed 497 significantly altered metabolites in the HD group versus HC, primarily associated with amino acid, vitamin, lipid, purine, and pyrimidine metabolisms. ROC analysis identified 4-pyridoxic acid, nudifloramide, imidazoleacetic acid, ascorbic acid, and tocopheronic acid as potential diagnostic biomarkers (AUC > 0.8, p < 0.01). Integrated multi-omics analysis revealed correlations between Ruminococcus and metabolites such as Docosapentoic acid (DPA), 13 - EPAHAAB (EPA), and tryptamine, with shared differential pathways in bile secretion, caffeine metabolism, gastric acid secretion, and vitamin B6 metabolism.

CONCLUSION: Hemodialysis patients exhibited significant alterations in gut microbiota composition and metabolic profiles (amino acid, vitamin, and lipid metabolism) compared with healthy controls, with demonstrated microbiome-metabolome interactions and shared functional pathways. The potential diagnostic and therapeutic value of these differential features warrants further exploration and external validation.},
}

Humans
*Renal Dialysis/adverse effects
Multiomics
*Dysbiosis/metabolism/microbiology/etiology
Case-Control Studies
Female
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Male
Middle Aged
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Metabolome
Feces/microbiology
Aged
Metabolomics

@article {pmid42594838,
year = {2026},
author = {Sarma, AD and Devi, M and Kumar, D and Choudhary, N},
title = {Gut microbiota-derived TMA/TMAO and IRAK4 signaling in type 2 diabetes: Current evidence, knowledge gaps and future therapeutic opportunities.},
journal = {International immunopharmacology},
volume = {188},
number = {},
pages = {117240},
doi = {10.1016/j.intimp.2026.117240},
pmid = {42594838},
issn = {1878-1705},
abstract = {Diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) is now considered an immunometabolic condition with a long-term low-grade inflammatory state, insulin resistance, and host-microbiome interactions. Emerging evidence suggests that gut microbiota-derived trimethylamine (TMA), its hepatic metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), and IRAK4-mediated innate immune signaling may contribute to metabolic inflammation and insulin resistance. However, direct mechanistic evidence linking these components remains limited, and most available data originate from preclinical studies. Gut microbiota produces TMA based on the nutrients present in the diet, such as choline, betaine, and l-carnitine, which are then oxidized in the liver to trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a metabolite linked to inflammation, metabolic maladaptation, and cardiovascular issues. IRAK4, a signaling mediator of Toll-like receptor and interleukin-1 receptor, may induce NF- kB and MAPK signaling, which may contribute to metaflammation and defective insulin signaling. This overview highlights existing evidence of the TMAIRAK4 axis in the pathogenesis and insulin resistance in T2DM. We discuss current evidence suggesting that TMA/TMAO may influence innate immune signaling and inflammatory pathways associated with insulin resistance. Special attention is given to the interference with the IRSPI3KAkt-pathway by inflammatory signaling mediated by IRAK4. We also consider new treatment approaches, such as IRAK4 inhibitors, control of microbial TMA synthesis, and FMO3-based interventions. Lastly, we underscore important translational issues, such as inconsistency in the evidence about TMAO biology, microbiome diversity, insufficient human validation, and the necessity of multi-omics-based precision methods in patient stratification and personalized treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42594848,
year = {2026},
author = {Conte, S and Le, V and Li, MK},
title = {More Than Skin Deep: Understanding the Skin-Bone Axis.},
journal = {Skin therapy letter},
volume = {31},
number = {4},
pages = {1-5},
pmid = {42594848},
issn = {1201-5989},
mesh = {Humans ; *Bone and Bones/physiology ; Vitamin D/metabolism ; Aging/physiology ; Homeostasis/physiology ; *Skin Aging/physiology ; Collagen/metabolism/physiology ; *Skin/metabolism ; *Skin Physiological Phenomena ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; },
abstract = {The skin's role as a mirror of internal disease has long been established, with clear associations to several internal organs. However, its relationship with bone is less well known. There are clear physiological links between the two organ systems, with their shared factors crucial to maintain structural integrity and homeostasis. Collagen, vitamin D homeostasis, aging, medications, and the gut microbiome are all factors that impact both skin and bone. It is of utmost importance that the skin-bone axis be adequately understood to support a healthy aging process. In this review, we discuss the multiple facets related to skin and bone health, their interconnectivity, as well as the importance of promoting whole body health.},
}

Humans
*Bone and Bones/physiology
Vitamin D/metabolism
Aging/physiology
Homeostasis/physiology
*Skin Aging/physiology
Collagen/metabolism/physiology
*Skin/metabolism
*Skin Physiological Phenomena
Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology

@article {pmid42594868,
year = {2026},
author = {Badenoch, AJ and Pang, Z and Chung, CH and Robida, A and Badenoch, B and Natesan, R and Kakish, L and Li, J and Chandrasekaran, S},
title = {Modeling microbiome modulation of tumor metabolic networks to predict synergistic therapies.},
journal = {Cell reports methods},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101549},
doi = {10.1016/j.crmeth.2026.101549},
pmid = {42594868},
issn = {2667-2375},
abstract = {Differences in microbiome composition profoundly influence drug response, yet methods to model the metabolic impact of microbes on host cells and therapeutics remain limited. We present a microbiome-aware computational framework combining machine learning and genome-scale metabolic models to predict combination therapies for colorectal cancer (CRC) in the presence of Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) and other pathogenic, probiotic, and commensal microbes. The model learned predictive metabolic flux signatures from 6,514 drug combination profiles in CRC cell lines and predicted synergistic drug combinations across both microbe-free and microbe-associated contexts. Model performance was supported through prospective comparison with newly reported drug combinations, in vitro drug synergy assays, microbiome co-culture experiments, and targeted metabolic perturbations of predicted pathway dependencies. Pharmacological perturbations in asymmetric co-cultures revealed phosphoinositol metabolism and cysteine transport as key determinants of Fn-dependent drug synergy. Together, this work introduces a scalable strategy for discovering microbiome-dependent combination therapies, including chemotherapies, immunotherapy, and probiotics.},
}

@article {pmid42595281,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, R and Okoro, PC and Zillikens, MC and Vasan, RS and Sahni, S and Rivadeneira, F and Kiel, DP and Medina-Gomez, C},
title = {The association of gut microbiome composition with musculoskeletal features in middle-aged and older adults: A two-cohort joint study.},
journal = {Bone},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {118051},
doi = {10.1016/j.bone.2026.118051},
pmid = {42595281},
issn = {1873-2763},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Bones and muscles are connected chemically, anatomically, and functionally. While animal studies suggest the gut microbiome influences musculoskeletal aging, human evidence remains limited. We assessed associations between musculoskeletal phenotypes and gut microbiome composition in community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults.

METHODS: We analyzed DXA-derived phenotypes from two population-based cohorts: the Rotterdam Study (mean age 62.7 years; n = 1249) and the Framingham Heart Study (mean age 55.2 years; n = 1227). Phenotypes included appendicular lean mass (ALM), femoral neck bone mineral density (FN-BMD), and trabecular bone score (TBS). Gut microbiome composition was assessed via 16S rRNA sequencing, and functional potential predicted using PICRUSt2. Multivariate linear regression analyses were adjusted for demographic, lifestyle, and clinical covariates.

RESULTS: Alpha diversity was not associated with any musculoskeletal phenotype after multiple testing, whereas beta diversity was associated with ALM in the combined and female analyses. Four genera associated with ALM: lower abundance of Oscillibacter (β = -0.51, 95%CI [-0.74,-0.29]), Anaerotruncus (β = -0.41, 95%CI[-0.61,-0.21]), Eisenbergiella (β = -0.39, 95%CI[-0.59,-0.19]) and higher abundance of Agathobacter (β = 0.40, 95%CI [0.20,0.60]) were associated with higher ALM. In females, lower abundance of Anaerotruncus (β = -0.32, 95%CI[-0.45,-0.19]), Hungatella (β = -0.26, 95%CI[-0.38,-0.15]), and Clostridiales bacterium DTU089 (β = -0.37, 95%CI[-0.55,-0.19]), and higher biotin biosynthesis II pathway (β = 0.44, 95%CI[0.24,0.64]) associated with higher ALM. No robust associations were observed for bone traits.

CONCLUSION: Although no associations were identified between gut microbial features and bone measures, several microbial genera were associated with appendicular lean mass in middle-aged and older adults, with evidence of sex-specific effects. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings and clarify underlying mechanisms.},
}

@article {pmid42595349,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, Z and Ramakrishnan, M and Wang, B and Wei, Q and Ahmad, Z},
title = {Optimized Controlled-Release Fertilization Improves Productivity and Reshapes the Rhizosphere Microbiome in Lei Bamboo: A Metagenomic Assessment.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {28},
number = {8},
pages = {e70401},
pmid = {42595349},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {2018YFD060010403//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2021F1065-10//Special Project of Zhejiang Provincial Scientific Research Institutes/ ; },
mesh = {*Fertilizers/analysis ; *Rhizosphere ; *Microbiota ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Poaceae/microbiology/growth & development ; Nitrogen/metabolism ; Metagenomics ; Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification/metabolism ; Soil/chemistry ; Urea/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Intensive nitrogen fertilization in Lei bamboo (Phyllostachys praecox) plantations has increased productivity but has also reduced nitrogen-use efficiency (NUE), accelerated nutrient losses, and contributed to soil degradation. How nutrient-release strategies influence rhizosphere microbiome assembly and ecosystem functioning remains poorly understood. Here, we developed a bamboo shoot-specific controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) and evaluated different urea-CRF blending ratios to identify sustainable fertilization strategy for Lei bamboo production. Mixed CRF-urea treatments outperformed both sole-fertilizer applications and the unfertilized control. T2 (30% urea + 70% CRF) achieved the highest shoot yield, whereas T3 (50% urea + 50% CRF) enhanced NUE. Optimized fertilization improved soil nutrient availability and organic matter accumulation without significantly affecting soil pH. Metagenomic analysis revealed the enrichment of taxa associated with nutrient transformation, organic matter turnover, and plant growth. However, pathway-level analysis revealed shifts in carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur cycling activities under optimized nutrient-release regimes. Our results demonstrate that synchronizing nitrogen release with plant and microbial demand enhances rhizosphere function, productivity and NUE. T2 delivered the strongest overall agronomic performance by maximizing shoot yield while maintaining improved nutrient retention and ecological stability. These findings provide a mechanistic link between fertilization strategy, rhizosphere microbial dynamics, and ecosystem function, supporting sustainable Lei bamboo production.},
}

*Fertilizers/analysis
*Rhizosphere
*Microbiota
*Soil Microbiology
*Poaceae/microbiology/growth & development
Nitrogen/metabolism
Metagenomics
Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification/metabolism
Soil/chemistry
Urea/metabolism

@article {pmid42595650,
year = {2026},
author = {Koyama, K and Kidoguchi, M and Adachi, N and Ii, R and Nakamura, T and Yoshida, K and Tsutsumiuchi, T and Kimura, Y and Kato, Y and Ogi, K and Imoto, Y and Sakashita, M and Takabayashi, T and Noguchi, E and Fujieda, S},
title = {Nasal Corynebacterium depletion is associated with polysensitization to inhalant allergens in adults.},
journal = {Allergology international : official journal of the Japanese Society of Allergology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.alit.2026.08.001},
pmid = {42595650},
issn = {1440-1592},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Polysensitization to inhalant allergens is an important determinant of disease progression and severity in allergic conditions. Although microbial dysbiosis has been implicated in various allergic conditions, the association between nasal microbiome composition and polysensitization remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between the nasal microbiome and airborne allergen sensitization burden in adults.

METHODS: In this cross-sectional observational study, 278 adults were categorized into four groups based on the number of sensitizations (range: 0-9): zero, mono (1), oligo (2-3), and poly (≥4). Allergen-specific IgE levels were measured in blood samples. Nasal swabs were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing to characterize microbial composition and predict functional pathways.

RESULTS: Age was inversely correlated with the number of sensitizations, while both total IgE levels and allergic rhinitis prevalence increased across groups. Corynebacterium, a dominant commensal genus in the nasal microbiome, was significantly reduced in the polysensitized group and was inversely correlated with sensitization burden. Although overall microbial diversity remained stable, the abundance and co-occurrence patterns of key genera, including Corynebacterium, were altered in polysensitized individuals. Functional predictions revealed reduced activity in pathways related to carbohydrate metabolism (e.g., d-galactose degradation), cofactor biosynthesis (e.g., biotin and folate), and amino acid metabolism, all essential for epithelial integrity and repair.

CONCLUSIONS: Polysensitized individuals exhibit Corynebacterium depletion along with altered microbial interactions and metabolic potential. Thus, nasal microbiome dysbiosis may impair epithelial barrier function and contribute to allergen sensitization, serving as a potential target for preventive strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42595876,
year = {2026},
author = {Knuth, D and Mäder, P and Boekhorst, J and Poll, C and Kandeler, E and Alaoui, A and Pasković, I and Polić Pasković, M and Baldi, I and Bureau, M and Alcon, F and Contreras, J and Glavan, M and Abrantes, N and Campos, I and Norgaard, T and Huerta Lwanga, E and Geissen, V and Harkes, P},
title = {Beneath the surface: non-target effects of multiple pesticides on the soil microbiome in organic and conventional agricultural European fields.},
journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42595876},
issn = {1614-7499},
support = {862568//HORIZON EUROPE Framework Programme/ ; },
abstract = {Previous studies have shown that diverse cocktails of pesticide mixtures are omnipresent in agricultural soils yet miss a clear link to the effects on the soil microbiome. In this study, we linked the occurrence of pesticides in conventional and organic agricultural soils of the SPRINT (Sustainable plant protection transition) projects' Case Study Sites to the composition and function of soil microbial communities. Metagenomic sequencing, phospholipid fatty acids analysis and enzyme activity measurements were used to characterize the soil microbiome and effects of site-specific parameters such as pH and SOC, and pesticide residues. Differences in the soil microbiome were strongly influenced by the geographic origin of the samples, with the pH value as dominant driver. Against our hypothesis, effects of the investigated management systems were limited, yet significant at the European level. Notably, an association between some pesticides could still be observed after accounting for the variation explained by the environmental factors. Among these, especially fungicides, with modes of action that aim to interfere with processes in microorganisms, seemed to affect the soil microbiome. This might occur either by directly affecting these processes in non-target organisms or by changing co-dependencies between fungi and bacteria. Next to fungicides, aminomethylphosphonic acid showed a significant effect on the soil microbial composition and an interactive, possibly synergistic effect with the persistent pesticide hexachlorobenzene. The latter raises concerns about a possible interaction of recently applied pesticides and persistent "legacy" pesticides. This work highlights that even though environmental parameters can overshadow the effects of pesticides, especially the identity of the pesticides present, can have an influence on the soil microbiome.},
}

@article {pmid42596535,
year = {2026},
author = {Chaki, T and Maruyama, D and Doan, TNM and Tian, X and Prakash, A},
title = {Dietary tryptophan mitigates lung ischemia-reperfusion injury in association with increased indole-3-propionate and aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling.},
journal = {Gut microbes},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2715839},
doi = {10.1080/19490976.2026.2715839},
pmid = {42596535},
issn = {1949-0984},
mesh = {Animals ; *Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/metabolism/genetics ; *Tryptophan/metabolism/administration & dosage ; *Reperfusion Injury/metabolism/diet therapy/microbiology ; *Indoles/metabolism ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Mice ; Signal Transduction ; Humans ; Male ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Lung/metabolism ; Diet ; Macrophages, Alveolar/immunology/metabolism ; *Lung Injury/metabolism ; Cytokines/metabolism ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Lung ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury drives early morbidity after lung transplantation and cardiothoracic surgery, yet targeted preventive therapies are lacking. The gut-lung axis and microbiota-derived tryptophan metabolites, including indole-3-propionate (IPA), may regulate pulmonary immunity and inflammation. We investigated whether a tryptophan-rich (Trp-Rich) diet attenuates sterile lung IR injury by increasing microbiota-derived indole metabolites and reprogramming alveolar macrophage (AM) inflammatory responses.

METHODS: C57BL/6 mice receiving isocaloric tryptophan-standard (Trp-Std) or tryptophan-rich (Trp-Rich) diets underwent lung IR injury. Oxygen saturation, lung cytokines, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling readouts were evaluated. Gut microbiota was profiled by 16S rRNA sequencing, and targeted metabolomics quantified tryptophan metabolites in feces, portal vein (PV) plasma, and lung tissue. To further assess inflammatory priming in vivo, mice were additionally challenged with intratracheal lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Mechanistic studies compared IPA with related indoles in cell lines and primary human AMs, including ex vivo nutritional IR, LPS stimulation, and AhR stimulation and blockade using synthetic agonists and antagonists.

RESULTS: Trp-Rich feeding improved post-IR oxygenation, reduced lung IL-1β, and increased pulmonary AhR-downstream gene expression. Trp-Rich diet remodeled gut microbiota, enriching for Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, and increasing IPA levels across feces, PV plasma, and lung tissue. In the LPS intratracheal challenge, Trp-Rich feeding reduced IL-6 levels in lung tissue and systemic plasma. Primary AMs isolated from Trp-Rich mice also showed reduced IL-1β and IL-6 release in an ex vivo nutritional IR model. Among the tested indole metabolites, IPA showed the strongest dose-dependent suppression of LPS-induced cytokines and chemokines, suppressed ex vivo nutritional IR injury, and its effects were attenuated by pharmacologic AhR blockade.

CONCLUSIONS: A Trp-Rich diet attenuated sterile lung IR injury, coinciding with gut microbiota remodeling, increased systemic and pulmonary IPA, reduced inflammatory priming, and reprogrammed AM responses. These data support diet- or microbiome-directed strategies targeting IPA-AhR signaling to mitigate perioperative lung IR injury.},
}

Animals
*Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/metabolism/genetics
*Tryptophan/metabolism/administration & dosage
*Reperfusion Injury/metabolism/diet therapy/microbiology
*Indoles/metabolism
Mice, Inbred C57BL
Mice
Signal Transduction
Humans
Male
Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Lung/metabolism
Diet
Macrophages, Alveolar/immunology/metabolism
*Lung Injury/metabolism
Cytokines/metabolism

@article {pmid42596544,
year = {2026},
author = {Shalmani, A and Giehl, RFH},
title = {Beyond the root: microbial partners extend plant metabolic pathways to mobilize iron.},
journal = {Molecular plant},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.molp.2026.08.007},
pmid = {42596544},
issn = {1752-9867},
abstract = {Under iron (Fe)-limiting conditions, Arabidopsis thaliana roots secrete coumarins, phenylpropanoid-derived secondary metabolites that can mobilize sparingly available Fe and shape the composition of the root-associated microbiome. Recent studies show that microbial partners can act on root-secreted coumarins to produce forms with higher Fe-mobilization capacity. Besides providing a mechanistic understanding of the positive interaction of soil microbiota to improved plant Fe nutrition, these findings provide new evidence that the functional boundaries of plant metabolic pathways extend into the rhizosphere.},
}

@article {pmid42596550,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, S and Shi, G and Zhao, J and Long, X and Tang, L and Qi, Z and Xu, X and Cheng, P and Liu, J},
title = {DC vaccine loaded with Bacteroides fragilis elicits functional cross-reactivity and enhances anti-PD-1 immunotherapy.},
journal = {Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.ymthe.2026.08.021},
pmid = {42596550},
issn = {1525-0024},
abstract = {The gut microbiome profoundly influences the clinical benefits of antitumor immunotherapy. Although various gut microbiota have been shown to enhance immunotherapy, their clinical application remains unexplored. In this study, a dendritic cell (DC) vaccine loaded with the gut commensal Bacteroides fragilis (DC-Bf) was used as a therapeutic cancer vaccine. DC-Bf elicited T-cell responses that recognize both B.fragilis and tumor cells, primarily via major histocompatibility complex-I-mediated cross-presentation of B.fragilis antigens to prime CD8[+] T cells. DC-Bf treatment increased CD8[+] T cell infiltration and activation, expanded the diversity of the T-cell receptor repertoire, and reduced the proportion of regulatory T cells and M2-type tumor-associated macrophages, thereby improving the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In multiple tumor-bearing models, DC-Bf enhanced the therapeutic activity of programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitors by inducing interleukin-12-driven, CD8[+] T-cell-dependent antitumor immune responses. This study confirms the potential of using bacteria-loaded DCs to augment immunotherapy efficacy and provides a new perspective for the clinical application of the gut microbiome. Targeting the gut microbiota holds promise as a novel avenue for developing antitumor vaccines.},
}

@article {pmid42596554,
year = {2026},
author = {Kossalbayev, BD and Wang, J and Wei, M and Sadvakasova, AK and Zaletova, DE and Bauenova, MO and Kelden, D and Zhang, X and Huang, Z},
title = {Effects of single and synthetic microbial community inoculants on the rhizosphere soil and root microbiomes of rice (Oryza sativa).},
journal = {Functional plant biology : FPB},
volume = {53},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1071/FP26125},
pmid = {42596554},
issn = {1445-4416},
mesh = {*Oryza/microbiology/growth & development ; *Rhizosphere ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Microbiota ; *Plant Roots/microbiology ; Bacteria/genetics ; },
abstract = {This study compared the effects of a single-strain microbial inoculant, Brevundimonas diminuta NH1, and a synthetic microbial community (FSQN) composed of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens FH1, Ochrobactrum tritici S112, Gluconacetobacter liquefaciens QZR14, and B. diminuta NH1 on the rhizosphere soil and root microbiomes of rice (Oryza sativa) to investigate how these inoculation strategies differ in microbiome regulation and growth promotion. High-throughput sequencing was used to assess microbial α- and β-diversity, community composition, predicted bacterial and fungal functions, and correlations between microbiome shifts and rice growth traits. We found that neither inoculant significantly affected microbial α-diversity, but both significantly altered β-diversity in rhizosphere soil and roots. Compared with the control, the single-strain treatment mainly enriched Mortierella, Glaciozyma, and Bovista in rhizosphere soil, and Clostridium sensu stricto, Cronobacter, Exiguobacterium, Kosakonia, and Pseudomonas in roots. The synthetic community mainly enriched Mortierella, Tausonia, Fusarium, and Glomerella in rhizosphere soil, and Exiguobacterium, Pseudomonas, and Rhodotorula in roots. Functional prediction indicated that the single-strain inoculant enhanced sulfur respiration, ureolysis, xylanolysis, and denitrification-related functions, whereas the synthetic community enhanced ectomycorrhizal, endomycorrhizal, and plant-saprotrophic functions. Shoot height and dry weight were may positively associated with enriched taxa and functions, particularly Mortierella, Exiguobacterium, and endophytic functions.},
}

*Oryza/microbiology/growth & development
*Rhizosphere
*Soil Microbiology
*Microbiota
*Plant Roots/microbiology
Bacteria/genetics

@article {pmid42596786,
year = {2026},
author = {Chander, A and Lim, H and Bachrach, G and Ferreira, MR},
title = {The Dual Face of Fusobacterium nucleatum in Cancer: Foe, Friend or Both?.},
journal = {Journal of periodontal research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jre.70165},
pmid = {42596786},
issn = {1600-0765},
support = {CTRQQR-2021\100004//CRUK City of London Cancer Centre Award/ ; //Guy's Charity/ ; //Wilson + Olegario Philanthropy/ ; },
abstract = {Fusobacterium is a genus of anaerobic Gram-negative bacteria that has been increasingly implicated in a range of diseases, including periodontitis and cancer. This review critically evaluates the reported role of Fusobacterium nucleatum in cancer, highlighting new findings that suggest a more nuanced cross-talk with the disease. We contextualise current evidence on the interactions with the wider tumour micro-environment, including the roles of polymicrobial communities, microbial metabolites and taxonomic heterogeneity. Collectively, the evidence suggests that Fusobacterium nucleatum should not be regarded as universally pathogenic or oncogenic. Rather, its behaviour is likely context-dependent and shaped by its surrounding microenvironment. Notably, opposing pro- and anti-tumoural mechanisms can coexist within the same cancer type. For example, in colorectal cancer, F. nucleatum is predominantly associated with poorer outcomes by promoting immune evasion (e.g., suppression of cytotoxic T cell responses) and oncogenic signalling (e.g., via the E-cadherin/β-catenin pathway), yet it also displays oncosuppressive activity through promotion of neutrophil-mediated anti-tumoural cytotoxicity and butyrate-driven cytotoxic T cell activation and potentiation of immunotherapy. In head and neck cancer, by contrast, F. nucleatum detection is associated with improved survival across independent cohorts, potentially reflecting a different balance of these same competing mechanisms. We suggest implications for its proposed use as a biomarker and as a target in cancer therapy. Lingering questions are also laid out to help investigators shape future research to better capture the complexity of the TME and elucidate the overall impact of Fusobacterium nucleatum in cancer.},
}

@article {pmid42596801,
year = {2026},
author = {Habibzadeh, P and Hurd, D and Davar, D},
title = {Making dietary modification in the immunotherapy Era: from mechanistic evidence to practical implementation.},
journal = {Immunotherapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-4},
doi = {10.1080/1750743X.2026.2717073},
pmid = {42596801},
issn = {1750-7448},
}

@article {pmid42596834,
year = {2026},
author = {Zeng, J and Hu, J and Ma, Z and Zhu, S and Lv, X and Zhang, L and Shen, M and Li, T},
title = {Polyphenol‑based interventions in breast cancer: Signaling pathways, molecular mechanisms and translational therapeutic strategies (Review).},
journal = {Oncology reports},
volume = {56},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3892/or.2026.9176},
pmid = {42596834},
issn = {1791-2431},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Polyphenols/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy/pathology ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; Animals ; Translational Research, Biomedical ; },
abstract = {Breast cancer (BC) comprises multiple molecular subtypes with distinct epidemiological, biological and therapeutic features. Although advances in diagnosis and systemic therapy have improved patient outcomes, therapeutic resistance, treatment‑related toxicity and disease recurrence remain major clinical challenges. Growing evidence suggests that plant‑derived polyphenols may influence BC progression through multiple biological mechanisms. These compounds can inhibit tumor‑cell proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, inflammation, epithelial‑mesenchymal transition and metastasis, while promoting apoptosis, autophagy, cell‑cycle arrest and tumor‑suppressive responses. Mechanistically, polyphenols may regulate several interconnected signaling pathways involved in BC development and progression, including PI3K/AKT/mTOR, p53, NF‑κB, STAT3, Wnt/β‑catenin and MAPK signaling. In addition to their direct effects on tumor cells, polyphenols may interact with the gut microbiome, which in turn influences polyphenol metabolism, estrogen homeostasis, immune regulation, inflammation and bioavailability. Probiotics, prebiotics and microbiota‑derived metabolites may further influence this polyphenol‑gut microbiome‑BC axis. Polyphenols have also been explored as adjuvant or supportive agents in combination with chemotherapy, endocrine therapy and radiotherapy, as well as in novel delivery systems designed to improve their bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. However, most current evidence remains preclinical. Well‑designed clinical trials are therefore needed to define the optimal formulations, doses, safety profiles, pharmacokinetics and therapeutic relevance of polyphenol‑based interventions in BC.},
}

Humans
Female
*Polyphenols/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy/pathology
Signal Transduction/drug effects
Animals
Translational Research, Biomedical

@article {pmid42597189,
year = {2026},
author = {Xie, F and Bai, C and Xu, J and Luan, X},
title = {Microbiota-gut-brain axis in cerebral palsy: from mechanisms to interventions.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1911417},
pmid = {42597189},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common cause of chronic motor disability in childhood and arises from non-progressive injury to the developing brain. Despite the static nature of the primary lesion, children with CP frequently experience evolving gastrointestinal, nutritional, inflammatory, sleep, cognitive, and seizure-related comorbidities that substantially influence functional recovery and caregiver burden. The microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) provides a biologically plausible framework linking these multisystem manifestations. Emerging evidence suggests that children with CP may exhibit reduced gut microbial diversity, depletion of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing taxa, enrichment of opportunistic bacteria, and microbiome remodeling related to diet, constipation, antiepileptic drug exposure, oral inflammation, and care patterns. Dysbiosis may interact with CP through epithelial barrier disruption, lipopolysaccharide translocation, systemic immune activation, altered tryptophan-kynurenine metabolism, abnormal bile acid and SCFA signaling, vagal and enteric nervous system pathways, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation, and microglial priming. These mechanisms may create a self-reinforcing cycle in which early brain injury promotes gut dysfunction, gut dysfunction reshapes the microbiome, and dysbiotic immune-metabolic signals further amplify symptom burden. Current interventions, including nutritional optimization, constipation protocols, dietary fiber, probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, oral health management, and family-centered care, show promise for improving bowel symptoms and selected microbial or inflammatory indices. However, most clinical studies remain small, short-term, and focused on constipation rather than long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. All CP-specific human evidence currently demonstrates association rather than causation; no study has established that dysbiosis initiates CP or causally drives its neurological phenotype. Accordingly, mechanistic pathways are presented as testable hypotheses, not validated causal mechanisms in CP. This review synthesizes current evidence on the MGBA in CP, outlines mechanistic pathways, evaluates therapeutic opportunities, and proposes future directions for biomarker-driven and stratified intervention trials.},
}

@article {pmid42597253,
year = {2026},
author = {Stefanelli, N},
title = {Gut dysbiosis and vitamin-dependent immune regulation in degenerative musculoskeletal and bone diseases.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1920962},
pmid = {42597253},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dysbiosis/immunology ; Animals ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology ; *Bone Diseases/immunology/metabolism ; Vitamin D/metabolism ; *Immunomodulation ; *Vitamins/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Degenerative musculoskeletal and metabolic bone diseases are increasingly recognized as conditions sustained not only by endocrine and mechanical factors, but also by chronic low-grade immune activation and osteo-immune imbalance. This Perspective proposes a mechanistic framework in which gut dysbiosis may contribute to skeletal degeneration through alterations in vitamin-dependent immune regulation, with particular attention to the interaction between vitamin D signaling and microbiota-derived menaquinones. Dysbiosis may impair intestinal barrier integrity and increase exposure to microbial-associated molecular patterns, thereby sustaining innate and adaptive immune activation and promoting a pro-inflammatory cytokine milieu involving IL-6, TNF-α, IL-17, and IL-1β. These pathways may promote osteoclastogenesis and disrupt bone remodeling through the RANKL/RANK/OPG axis. While the immunomodulatory role of vitamin D is well established, microbiota-derived menaquinones may represent a less explored but biologically plausible interface between microbial metabolism, inflammatory signaling, and skeletal homeostasis . However, the extent to which microbiota-derived menaquinones significantly contribute to systemic vitamin K status in humans remains controversial and incompletely characterized. Within this framework, dietary patterns are conceptualized as modulators of microbial ecology and immune activation, while microbiota-modulating strategies may indirectly influence osteo-immune balance through immune-mediated mechanisms. This Perspective integrates microbial, immunological, and vitamin-dependent pathways into an immunology-centered model of skeletal degeneration and highlights the need for studies combining microbiome profiling, immune phenotyping, vitamin-dependent signaling, and bone remodeling outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Dysbiosis/immunology
Animals
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/immunology
*Bone Diseases/immunology/metabolism
Vitamin D/metabolism
*Immunomodulation
*Vitamins/metabolism

@article {pmid42597328,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, B and Lu, S and Liu, H},
title = {Precision diagnostics in bronchiectasis: current advances in imaging, microbiology, biomarkers, and digital health.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1907636},
pmid = {42597328},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {Bronchiectasis is a complex, chronic airway syndrome driven by a vicious cycle of irreversible bronchial dilatation, impaired mucociliary clearance, recurrent infection, and tissue-destructive inflammation. Reflecting its profound clinical heterogeneity, patients with identical structural damage on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) often exhibit divergent profiles in airway microbiology, inflammatory endotypes, exacerbation frequencies, and therapeutic responses, indicating that static anatomical classification fails to capture disease complexity. Sole reliance on visual CT inspection, standard sputum cultures, and subjective symptom tracking misses the driving mechanisms of individual disease progression. Emerging modalities-artificial intelligence (AI)-driven quantitative imaging, molecular microbiology, high-throughput biomarker profiling, and digital remote monitoring-aim to address these gaps. Our analysis shows that while these tools cannot substitute for bedside clinical acumen, they clarify obscure phenotypes, expose actionable treatable traits, and enable earlier, preemptive strategies. This review evaluates these contemporary diagnostic frameworks in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, dissecting their clinical utility, evidentiary maturity, and the economic and logistical barriers to routine adoption. Given that current evidence remains fragmented, advancing the field demands standardized imaging protocols, transparent algorithmic pipelines, clinically actionable metagenomic reporting, and robust validation in underrepresented Asian and Chinese cohorts. The real challenge lies not in generating more data, but in integrating these heterogeneous, high-dimensional datasets into pragmatic, point-of-care decision pathways that improve patient outcomes without widening disparities in global healthcare delivery.},
}

@article {pmid42597333,
year = {2026},
author = {Méndez-Sacta, V and Agreda Orellana, S and Ayavaca-Tapia, LM and Gutiérrez León, YY and Calero-Cáceres, W},
title = {Methodological bias shapes the interpretation of the urinary microbiome in low-biomass systems.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1851926},
pmid = {42597333},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The recognition of the urinary microbiome (urobiome) has challenged the long-standing paradigm of urinary tract sterility, revealing diverse microbial communities associated with both urinary health and disease. However, the characterization of the urobiome remains highly variable across studies, particularly due to the low-biomass nature of urine samples and the strong influence of methodological bias. In this Mini Review, we examine how factors such as sample collection methods, contamination dynamics, DNA extraction protocols, sequencing approaches, and bioinformatic pipelines shape microbial profiles and contribute to inconsistencies in microbiome-disease associations. We further discuss the limitations of traditional culture-based diagnostics, which fail to detect many microorganisms identified through sequencing-based approaches, and highlight the need for standardized, contamination-aware, and function-oriented frameworks. Finally, we explore the potential of integrated multi-omics strategies to improve the reliability, reproducibility, and clinical relevance of urobiome research in urinary tract health and disease.},
}

@article {pmid42597552,
year = {2026},
author = {Abusaliya, A and Al Shamsi, M and Orsud, H and Al Rasbi, Z and Zoughbor, S and Joher, N},
title = {Natural flavonoids in multiple sclerosis: molecular insights and emerging therapeutic strategies.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1888423},
pmid = {42597552},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Multiple Sclerosis/drug therapy/metabolism/immunology ; *Flavonoids/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry ; Animals ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Remyelination/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Multiple sclerosis is a chronic immune mediated disease in which current disease modifying therapies reduce inflammatory relapses but incompletely address neurodegeneration and remyelination. Natural flavonoids are pleiotropic polyphenols that can modulate immune and glial signaling, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function. This review synthesizes evidence from experimental models and human studies on flavonoids relevant to multiple sclerosis, emphasizing mechanisms involving NF-κB, Nrf2, inflammasome signaling, and microglia and macrophage polarization that shape oligodendrocyte precursor cell differentiation and remyelination permissiveness. We highlight structure activity features, metabolism and glycosylation that govern exposure, and discuss translational barriers including low and variable bioavailability, limited blood brain barrier penetration, standardization, and potential interactions with approved therapies. Emerging enabling strategies are reviewed, including lipid and polymeric nanocarriers, stimuli responsive delivery, systems biology and multi omics target discovery, network pharmacology for multi target prioritization, microbiome informed approaches, and synthetic biology for scalable production and derivative optimization. Overall, preclinical studies consistently support anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, while clinical evidence remains early and mixed, underscoring the need for well powered trials with pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic endpoints.},
}

Humans
*Multiple Sclerosis/drug therapy/metabolism/immunology
*Flavonoids/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry
Animals
Signal Transduction/drug effects
Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use
Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Remyelination/drug effects

@article {pmid42597565,
year = {2026},
author = {Okonta, EO and Nnadi, CO and Paul-Chima, UO},
title = {The gut microbiome as a plausible but unproven moderator of cinnamon trial outcomes in type 2 diabetes: toward phytochemical standardization and precision nutraceuticals.},
journal = {Frontiers in nutrition},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1874182},
pmid = {42597565},
issn = {2296-861X},
abstract = {Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.) has been widely investigated as an adjunctive nutraceutical for glycemic management in type 2 diabetes mellitus, yet clinical findings remain inconsistent. This variability is commonly attributed to differences in cinnamon species, dosage, intervention duration, baseline glycemic status and phytochemical standardization, alongside methodological factors such as trial quality, dietary patterns, medication use, adherence and endpoint selection. One potential contributor that has received limited attention is the gut microbiome. We propose a testable hypothesis that a substantial proportion of the marked inter-trial heterogeneity observed in cinnamon meta-analyses (I[2] > 75%) may reflect underlying gut-microbial metabotypes differing in their ability to convert cinnamon polyphenols and procyanidins into bioactive metabolites. Type 2 diabetes is associated with altered microbial composition, reduced butyrate-producing taxa and disrupted metabolic pathways. Cinnamon phytochemicals, including polyphenols, cinnamaldehyde, procyanidins and coumarin, undergo microbial biotransformation that may influence their bioavailability and metabolic effects. Because cinnamaldehyde is rapidly absorbed in the proximal gastrointestinal tract, colon-targeted delivery systems may be required to rigorously evaluate microbiome-mediated mechanisms. No randomized controlled trial has directly examined whether microbiome composition modifies cinnamon's glycemic effects in type 2 diabetes. Future studies should therefore incorporate microbiome-informed designs, including phytochemical fingerprinting, safety monitoring and, where feasible, metagenomic and metabolomic profiling, to distinguish true biological non-response from intervention heterogeneity and advance precision nutraceutical approaches for diabetes management.},
}

@article {pmid42597665,
year = {2026},
author = {Lv, H and Ling, G and Mo, H and Lu, M and Yao, D and Lu, C},
title = {Dual zeitgeber axes in psoriasis: a chronobiological framework for immune jet lag.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1848727},
pmid = {42597665},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Psoriasis/immunology/metabolism/physiopathology ; *Circadian Rhythm/immunology ; Animals ; *Jet Lag Syndrome/immunology/physiopathology ; Suprachiasmatic Nucleus/metabolism/immunology ; },
abstract = {Psoriasis is primarily characterized by interleukin-23/T helper 17 (IL-23/Th17)-related inflammation, but clinical and epidemiological observations also suggest recurrent temporal features, including seasonal fluctuation, nocturnal symptom exacerbation, sleep-wake disturbance, and circadian-related risk contexts. Here, we propose the Dual Zeitgeber Model as a hypothesis-generating and testable chronobiological framework for organizing these observations. The central hypothesis is that persistent misalignment between the light-suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN)-neuroendocrine axis (Axis I) and the feeding-metabolism-microbiome axis (Axis II) may contribute to immune temporal desynchronization. Within this framework, immune jet lag is reserved for this hypothesized state of immune temporal desynchronization. This concept describes a condition in which neuroendocrine immune gating and metabolic-microbial immune signals may become temporally misaligned. This hypothesis raises several testable questions: whether Axis I-Axis II temporal relationships are associated with disease activity, whether abnormal immune temporal organization persists over time, and whether adjunctive circadian-oriented strategies may provide mechanistic insight or potential clinical value alongside established therapies. More broadly, this framework reframes time as a measurable, stratifiable, and testable research dimension, thereby providing new directions for circadian phenotype-based stratification, longitudinal tracking of disease trajectories and treatment responses, and the design of time-controlled intervention studies.},
}

Humans
*Psoriasis/immunology/metabolism/physiopathology
*Circadian Rhythm/immunology
Animals
*Jet Lag Syndrome/immunology/physiopathology
Suprachiasmatic Nucleus/metabolism/immunology

@article {pmid42597686,
year = {2026},
author = {Annaswamy, V and Mikesh, M and Dinkeloo, K},
title = {The Microbiome of Nurdles: Life on the Primary Microplastics of the Texas Gulf Coast.},
journal = {microPublication biology},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42597686},
issn = {2578-9430},
abstract = {Nurdles are small, pre-production plastic pellets. Globally, nurdles are the second largest source of microplastic pollution due to release during manufacture and transport. As these nurdles persist in the environment, they undergo weathering-a process that significantly increases surface area and colonization by microbes. To gain an understanding of the composition of the microbiome found on nurdles, full-length 16S targeted metagenomic sequencing was performed on DNA extracted from nurdles collected from the Texas Gulf Coast. Sequencing data showed a greater amount and diversity of microbes found to be associated with nurdles than with the sand from which the nurdles were collected.},
}

@article {pmid42597739,
year = {2026},
author = {Skourti, K and Katsaitis, F and Pavlidi, P and Anesti, M and Balla, J and Emvalomatis, A and Kokras, N and Dalla, C and Sotiropoulos, I},
title = {Mental health and gut-brain crosstalk: implications for depression and Alzheimer's disease.},
journal = {Neuroscience applied},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {107023},
pmid = {42597739},
issn = {2772-4085},
abstract = {Brain health and mental health disorders are increasingly becoming an essential priority for modern societies as they affect different parameters of life, such as brain health, quality of life, and productivity with a heavy societal and economic burden. Among mental health disorders, depression and Alzheimer disease (AD) have the higher impact on mental health globally as they are highly prevalent, cause long-term cognitive and mood deficits while they are deeply interconnected, with chronic stress raising as a risk factor and potential link between both disorders. This review focuses on the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication network that links the gut microbiome with the central nervous system, and its role in brain malfunction and pathology related to stress, depression and AD. This intricate gut-brain crosstalk is orchestrated through top-down and bottom-up mechanisms implicating the HPA axis, the enteric nervous system as well as gut microbiota-derived metabolites, neurotransmitters, epigenetic processes and extracellular vesicles/exosomes that can contribute to depression and AD. The current work provides a comprehensive summary of evidence linking gut microbial alterations to these brain pathologies, with particular focus on lifestyle and nutrition (e.g. food, water) as critical regulators. Lastly, we explore the therapeutic potential of microbiome-targeted interventions including pro/pre/post-biotics, and trace elements (e.g. lithium and silicon). Overall, this review highlights the potential of microbiome-centered strategies as novel interventions to support mental health and wellbeing.},
}

@article {pmid42597796,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, S and Tang, Z and Ding, Y and Xu, P and Yimamu, M and Chen, K},
title = {D-serine supplementation is associated with mucosal-prioritized rumen development and propionate-enriched fermentation with selective microbial shifts in pre-weaning Hu lambs.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1899537},
pmid = {42597796},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {This study evaluated whether dietary D-serine (D-Ser) could modulate rumen development, fermentation, microbiota, and metabolomic profiles in pre-weaning Hu lambs. Twenty healthy male lambs were assigned to a control group or a D-Ser group (n = 10/group); D-Ser was supplied at 2 g·kg[-1] BW·d[-1] from 7 to 48 days of age. Growth and starter intake were recorded, and rumen morphology, volatile fatty acids, 16S rRNA profiles, and untargeted LC-MS metabolomes were analyzed in slaughtered lambs (n = 6/group). D-Ser increased average daily starter intake during the 30-d starter-intake recording period by 25.96% (p = 0.036) and tended to advance first voluntary starter intake, whereas final body weight and average daily gain were numerically but not significantly higher. Rumen weight, rumen weight-to-body weight ratio, and rumen volume were significantly increased. Papillae length, width, density, and epithelial thickness were also enhanced, while muscle layer thickness was unchanged, indicating mucosa-prioritized morphological development. D-Ser increased total volatile fatty acids, acetate, propionate, and butyrate concentrations; propionate molar proportion rose from 21.41 to 25.11%, and the acetate-to-propionate ratio decreased from 2.90 to 2.44. Microbial diversity was not significantly altered, but Bacteroidota abundance increased, with enrichment of Shuttleworthia, Erysipelotrichaceae_UCG-006/UCG-009, Corynebacterium, and Sutterella. Metabolomics identified 248 differential metabolites enriched in amino acid, carbohydrate, and secondary bile acid pathways. The upregulation of L-N-carboxymethylserine and isodeoxycholic acid was consistent with possible microbial processing of D-Ser, but direct transformation was not experimentally verified. Overall, D-Ser improved starter intake and was associated with propionate-enriched fermentation and mucosal morphological development, whereas its growth-promoting effect and causal microbial mechanisms require further validation.},
}

@article {pmid42598050,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, Z and Dong, M and Mu, Z and Zheng, Z and Zhang, Z},
title = {Gut-brain axis dysregulation in Parkinson's disease: Mechanisms linking microbiota to neuroinflammation and α-synuclein pathology.},
journal = {Journal of pharmaceutical analysis},
volume = {16},
number = {8},
pages = {101521},
pmid = {42598050},
issn = {2214-0883},
abstract = {Parkinson's disease (PD) is increasingly understood as a multisystem disorder originating not only in the central nervous system (CNS) but also involving the gut-brain axis (GBA). A key driver of PD pathogenesis is gut microbiota dysbiosis, which contributes to disease progression by inducing intestinal inflammation, altered microbial metabolite production, and compromised gut barrier integrity. These alterations can initiate the misfolding and aggregation of α-synuclein in the enteric nervous system (ENS), facilitating its spread to the CNS via vagal pathways. Furthermore, microbiota-derived molecules, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS), are implicated in triggering systemic and neuroinflammatory cascades that exacerbate the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. This review consolidates current evidence on the mechanistic connections between gut microbiota dysregulation, neuroinflammation, and α-synuclein pathology in PD. We also discuss the translational potential of microbiota-focused biomarkers and innovative therapeutic strategies, providing new perspectives for early diagnosis and disease modification. Elucidating the GBA in PD paves the way for personalized medicine and microbiome-targeted therapies.},
}

@article {pmid42598143,
year = {2026},
author = {Mollick, SA and Khual, GK and Ghosh, A and Patel, SK and Bhattacharyya, S and Roy, CS and Maile, A and Nagarajaram, HA and Longkumer, M and Babu, MN and Kundapur, AR and Uniyal, S and Chattterjee, A and Mitra, M and Sikdar, M and Urade, BP and Pulamaghatta, VN},
title = {Gut microbial diversity and candidate keystone taxa in Indian tribes: Insights across lifestyle-ecological continuum and health associations.},
journal = {Current research in microbial sciences},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100650},
pmid = {42598143},
issn = {2666-5174},
abstract = {Despite the critical role of the gut microbiome in host physiology and health, it remains poorly characterized in Indigenous populations undergoing rapid acculturation. This study presents high-resolution, whole-genome metagenomic profiling of gut microbiota from five Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of Southern India, Irula, Jenu Kuruba, Kurumba, Chenchu, and Konda Savara, spanning distinct ecological zones and cultural transitions. Using an ecology-lifestyle continuum framework, we investigated taxonomic and functional diversity with a focus on identifying computationally inferred candidate keystone taxa, defined by their association with variation in community ordination structure. A leave-one-taxon-out ordination framework identified 121 candidate keystone taxa, many of which were population-specific and have not been widely reported. Functional analyses revealed a conserved core of metabolic pathways, including glycolysis and folate biosynthesis, alongside group-specific enrichment in xenobiotic degradation, amino acid biosynthesis, mucin metabolism, and lipid processing, associated with differences in dietary and environmental exposures across populations. Large-scale disease-association mapping (n = 5,625) linked 50 candidate keystone taxa to 14 conditions, with 44 associated with health and 6 with disease. While Fusicatenibacter saccharivorans and Alistipes shahii were enriched in healthy states, Ruminococcus gnavus, Bifidobacterium longum, Flavonifractor plautii, and Blautia wexlerae were enriched in disease-associated profiles. Cross-cohort validation against an independent set of traditional metagenomes (n = 119) further showed that a subset of Indian tribal core candidate keystone taxa was consistently identified across geographically distinct populations, with partial conservation of community associations and health associations, indicating reproducible context-dependent microbial association patterns across traditional populations. Alpha diversity was highest in minimally acculturated groups, with higher degrees of acculturation associated with reduced microbial diversity and greater enrichment of disease-associated taxa. Overall, this study provides a context-aware framework for understanding gut microbiome dynamics in culturally transitioning populations, emphasizing the conservation of microbial heritage and informing population-specific microbiome-based interventions.},
}

@article {pmid42598364,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, K and Zhang, X and Jin, S and Zhong, J and Chen, H and Yue, G and Cheng, Y and Peng, R and Fang, Z and Liu, F and Lu, Z and Zhao, L and Hu, R and Tao, X and He, Q and Liu, C},
title = {Precision synbiotic intervention with 2'-fucosyllactose and infant-derived Bifidobacterium modulates gut-immune axis and reduces disease risk in toddlers: a randomized controlled trial.},
journal = {Frontiers in nutrition},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1856180},
pmid = {42598364},
issn = {2296-861X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Early childhood represents a critical window for nutritional programming of immune function and microbiome establishment. While human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and probiotics individually demonstrate health benefits, their synergistic integration as synbiotics remains underexplored in toddler populations. This study aimed to evaluate whether a precision synbiotic combining 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL) with infant-adapted Bifidobacterium strains provides superior protection against common pediatric conditions compared with probiotics alone or placebo, and to elucidate underlying gut-immune mechanisms.

AIM: To determine the efficacy of a 2'-FL-containing synbiotic on infectious and atopic disease incidence, gut microbiota composition, and intestinal immune markers in children aged 1-3 years.

METHODS: In this multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, three-arm trial, 390 healthy toddlers were randomized (1:1:1) to receive: (1) synbiotic (2'-FL 1.0 g/day + B. infantis R0033 1.5 × 10[10] CFU + B. bifidum R0071 1.5 × 10[10] CFU); (2) probiotic (identical strains/doses); or (3) placebo (maltodextrin 1.5 g/day) for 12 weeks, with 12-week follow-up. Primary outcome was upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) incidence over 24 weeks. Secondary outcomes included pneumonia, diarrhea, eczema, antibiotic use, gut microbiota (16S rRNA V3-V4 sequencing), and fecal immune biomarkers (calprotectin, sIgA, HBD-2, LL-37). Dietary intake was monitored to control nutritional confounders.

RESULT: Synbiotic vs. placebo: URTI incidence reduced from 85.4 to 55.4% (adjusted risk ratio (aRR) 0.64, 95% CI 0.43-0.95; ARR 30.0%, NNT = 3.3; p = 0.028); pneumonia from 17.7 to 7.7% (RR 0.40, 0.17-0.94; p = 0.034); diarrhea from 17.7 to 10.0% (aRR 0.54, 0.30-0.95; p = 0.032); and eczema from 13.1 to 1.5% (aRR 0.12, 0.04-0.35; ARR 11.6%, NNT = 2.9; p < 0.001). Probiotic alone reduced only eczema (aRR 0.10, 0.03-0.40; p = 0.001). The synbiotic significantly altered gut beta-diversity (Bray-Curtis, p = 0.042) and enriched Bifidobacterium catenulatum and B. kashiwanohense species with conserved HMO utilization pathways. At 24 weeks, synbiotic reduced fecal calprotectin (62.7 ± 23.9 vs. 77.9 ± 24.6 μg/g; p = 0.004) and increased sIgA (1.37 ± 0.38 vs. 1.15 ± 0.49 mg/g; p = 0.014), indicating enhanced intestinal immune homeostasis.

CONCLUSION: A 12-week precision synbiotic intervention combining 2'-FL with infant-derived Bifidobacterium strains significantly reduced the burden of respiratory infections, diarrhea, and atopic dermatitis in toddlers, with effects exceeding probiotics alone. These benefits were mediated by targeted gut microbiota modulation and enhanced mucosal immune function. This study provides evidence for integrative nutritional strategies in early childhood disease prevention and supports the development of next-generation synbiotic formulations.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2400088943) prior to enrollment (https://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojEN.html?proj=235745).},
}

@article {pmid42598458,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Z and Zhang, Y and Hou, J and Lv, B and Li, X and Gao, L and Qin, X and Liu, Y},
title = {Multi-omics uncovers the critical role of ceramide-mediated Acinetobacter growth suppression in pressure injury healing under aging and malnutrition.},
journal = {Journal of pharmaceutical analysis},
volume = {16},
number = {8},
pages = {101587},
pmid = {42598458},
issn = {2214-0883},
abstract = {The epidemiology of tolerance and susceptibility in an individual suggests that aging and malnutrition (MN) should be critically regarded as a common clinical combination in the pathomechanism of pressure ulcer/injury (PU). However, the influence of these two factors on wound healing has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we used a random forest (RF) to screen macro and laboratory indicators to compare the characteristic variables of single versus dual interventions for aging or MN. The 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) microbiome sequencing as well as serum and skin metabolomics studies were conducted, along with the integration of bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data using bioinformatics. MetOrigin, MIMOSA2, and MetaNet were used to identify the molecular driving factors. The main findings demonstrated that the dual intervention played an essential role in inflammatory infiltration, promoting Acinetobacter colonization, affecting the activity of arachidonic acid (AA) and sphingolipid metabolic pathways, and simulating the metabolic profile of natural skin aging. The results of multi-omics association analysis, molecular biology, and antibacterial experiments in vitro indicated that the dual intervention affected keratinocytes through the cascading changes of the ceramide-Acinetobacter-AA-autophagy/wingless/integrated (WNT) axis to influence the healing process of PU wounds. In summary, this study has identified previously unknown links among skin microbiota, metabolites, and genomics in MN and aging, demonstrating that ceramide supplementation promotes wound healing in the older adults.},
}

@article {pmid42598638,
year = {2026},
author = {Khanna, T and Bansal, RK and Gupta, S and Gupta, SD and Bogra, P and Kapoor, A},
title = {Precision periodontology through periodontal endophenotyping: A narrative review.},
journal = {Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology},
volume = {30},
number = {2},
pages = {193-198},
pmid = {42598638},
issn = {0972-124X},
abstract = {Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that is influenced by microbial, immunological, genetic, and systemic factors. The 2017 World Workshop staging and grading framework has improved clinical categorization. However, it does not consider underlying biological diversity among patients with similar clinical presentations. In psychiatry, endocrinology, and pulmonology, the concept of endophenotypes connects genotype, environmental factors, and clinical outcome. Evidence from periodontology suggests that genetic and epigenetic variation, local microbiology, immunoinflammatory responses, chronic systemic conditions, and behavioral factors form biologically distinct subgroups. This review aims to provide current evidence that supports the concept of periodontal endophenotypes and discusses their role in diagnostics, risk assessment, and precision therapy. Standardized markers are yet to be established. This paper seeks to identify current gaps in understanding and outline future directions for research in precision periodontology. The findings could pave the way for more personalized treatment strategies tailored to individual patient profiles. By addressing these gaps, researchers may enhance the effectiveness of interventions and improve overall patient outcomes in periodontal care.},
}

@article {pmid42598787,
year = {2026},
author = {Wyatt, G and Yasmin, F and Donaldson, AR and Schumaker, SL and Gueorguieva, GA and Zerbe, P},
title = {Growth, signals, and survival: the evolutionary divergence of terpenoid metabolism in terrestrial plants.},
journal = {Natural product reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d6np00035e},
pmid = {42598787},
issn = {1460-4752},
abstract = {Covering: primarily from 2011 to 2026Terpenoids are an ancient and immensely diverse class of natural products. Since their emergence more than two billion years ago alongside early biological membranes, terpenoid metabolism has undergone a vast expansion in both structure and function, which directly contributed to the ecological success of terrestrial plants. Biosynthetically derived from two isomeric five-carbon isoprenoid precursors, plant terpenoids include hemi-, mono-, sesqui-, di-, sester-, tri-, tetra-, and poly-, and mero-terpenoids, that exhibit extensive variation in chain length, structural scaffolds, and functional decoration. This large chemical space is generated via dynamic metabolic networks, in which functionally versatile enzymes - most notably scaffold-forming terpene synthases and tailoring cytochrome P450 monooxygenases - are assembled into combinatorial pathway modules to yield complex bioactive terpenoid structures. Lineage-specific expansion of the underlying gene families, driven by recurrent genome and gene duplications followed by functional divergence, have facilitated the evolution of both conserved and specialized metabolic branches and natural products. Functionally, conserved terpenoids act as phytohormones, signaling molecules, and pigments governing plant growth and development, whereas typically species-specific specialized terpenoids mediate dynamic plant-environment interactions, including pest and pathogen defenses, allelopathy, pollinator attraction, root-microbiome communication, and abiotic stress tolerance. Advances in genomics, metabolomics, and synthetic biology continue to accelerate the discovery of terpenoid structures, pathways, and functions at an ever-increasing pace. Elucidating the mechanisms that generate this diversity, and the multifaceted roles that terpenoids play in plant ecology and physiology not only deepens our understanding of the evolutionary history of terrestrial plants, but also unlocks new opportunities for biotechnological innovation, spanning terpenoid-derived therapeutics, biofuels, fragrances, polymers, agrochemicals, and many other bioproducts.},
}

@article {pmid42598879,
year = {2026},
author = {Fought, MK and O'Connor, JB and Wagner, BD and Quinn, AC and Kirk Harris, J and Laguna, TA},
title = {Cathepsin B, Airway Pathogens, and Inflammation in the Lower Airways of Children With Cystic Fibrosis.},
journal = {Pediatric pulmonology},
volume = {61},
number = {8},
pages = {e71793},
doi = {10.1002/ppul.71793},
pmid = {42598879},
issn = {1099-0496},
support = {NIH R01HL136499/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; CFF LAGUNA17A0//Cystic Fibrosis Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Cystic Fibrosis/microbiology/metabolism ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Cathepsin B/metabolism/analysis ; Female ; Male ; Child ; *Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid/microbiology/chemistry ; Adolescent ; Leukocyte Elastase/metabolism ; Cytokines/metabolism ; Child, Preschool ; Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification ; Inflammation/microbiology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Dysregulated protease activity contributes to airway inflammation and tissue remodeling in cystic fibrosis (CF); however, the role of the lysosomal cysteine protease Cathepsin B (CTSB) remains incompletely defined. This cross-sectional study investigates relationships between pro-CTSB and mature CTSB activity with CF-specific pathogens and airway inflammation in children with and without CF.

METHODS: Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected from clinically indicated bronchoscopies in children (N = 52 CF, N = 161 non-CF). CTSB was interrogated using ELISA, fluorogenic activity assay, and Western blot analysis to distinguish pro- and mature CTSB. Total bacterial and total fungal load (TFL) were quantified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and community composition was determined by 16S bacterial and 18S fungal sequencing. Concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines and neutrophil elastase (NE) were measured via Luminex multiplatform and a spectrophotometric assay, respectively. Analyses included Spearman's rank correlations and Wilcoxon rank-based tests.

RESULTS: Pro-CTSB and CTSB activity were significantly (p < 0.01) elevated in CF BALF and in samples with a positive Staphylococcus aureus airway culture. Pro-CTSB concentrations correlated with staphylococcal relative abundance (RA, ρ = 0.25, p < 0.02) and reduced bacterial diversity (ρ  = -0.41, p < 0.01). Mature CTSB activity correlated with TFL (ρ  = 0.50, p < 0.05) and Aspergillus spp. RA (ρ  = 0.36, p < 0.04). Western blot analysis confirmed pro-CTSB expression and mature CTSB in BALF with measurable activity. Both CTSB measures correlated strongly with NE and proinflammatory cytokines (ρ  ≥ 0.47, p < 0.001). Pro-CTSB concentrations negatively correlated with FEV1/FVC measurements in CF (ρ  = -0.32, p = 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: BALF CTSB concentration may serve as a CF-specific biomarker of infection-related inflammation and obstructive lung disease driven by specific pathogen interactions.},
}

Humans
*Cystic Fibrosis/microbiology/metabolism
Cross-Sectional Studies
*Cathepsin B/metabolism/analysis
Female
Male
Child
*Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid/microbiology/chemistry
Adolescent
Leukocyte Elastase/metabolism
Cytokines/metabolism
Child, Preschool
Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification
Inflammation/microbiology

@article {pmid42598885,
year = {2026},
author = {Baidya, AK and Aich, P},
title = {Serum-Cecal Metabolome Integration Predicts Gut Microbial Communities and Reveals Pathway-Level Host-Microbe Crosstalk Under Disease-Induced Dysbiosis.},
journal = {Omics : a journal of integrative biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {15578100261479266},
doi = {10.1177/15578100261479266},
pmid = {42598885},
issn = {1557-8100},
abstract = {The gut microbiome shapes systemic physiology through metabolites that enter circulation, yet most computational approaches focus on predicting metabolite profiles from microbial features rather than inferring microbial composition from host metabolomes. Here, we investigate whether host-derived metabolomic profiles can be leveraged to predict gut microbial community structure and to determine how disease-associated dysbiosis reshapes metabolite-microbe interactions and gut-to-systemic metabolic communication. We developed an integrative multi-omics framework combining serum and cecal metabolomics with 16S rRNA-based microbiome profiling. Supervised learning models demonstrated that cecal metabolites carry predictive signals for microbial abundances across conditions. Regularized canonical correlation analysis (rCCA) revealed cross-compartment metabolite-microbe networks. These analyses showed both conserved and condition-specific interaction patterns, indicating substantial network reorganization under disease-associated dysbiosis. Pathway-level integration further identified metabolic pathways linking the gut microbiome, the cecal environment, and the systemic circulation, representing coordinated gut-to-systemic communication axes. Together, our results establish a multi-omics strategy for predictive inference of gut microbial composition from host metabolomes and provide a framework for identifying pathway-level mechanisms underlying host-microbe metabolic crosstalk.},
}

@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.},
}