@article {pmid42144716,
year = {2026},
author = {Shen, Y and Li, Y and Zheng, R and Xia, C and Gundel, PE and Nan, Z and Duan, T},
title = {Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Dominate Over Maternally Inherited Epichloë Endophytes in Controlling Rhizosphere Processes and Pathogen Resistance.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70613},
pmid = {42144716},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {32071879//National Science Foundation of China/ ; CARS-22 Green Manure//China Modern Agriculture Research System/ ; },
abstract = {Plant-microbe symbioses form a multi-layered system integrating vertically transmitted Epichloë endophytes, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and the rhizosphere microbiome, with implications for nutrient acquisition and pathogen resistance. Epichloë endophytes are maternally inherited and may exert priority effects that influence subsequent associations with AMF and root microorganisms, ultimately shaping defensive pathways. Here, we manipulated symbiosis of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) with Epichloë sp. LpTG-3 strain AR37 and the AM fungus Acaulospora delicata to examine exudate metabolites and the recruited rhizosphere microbiome in relation to host responses to the pathogen Bipolaris sorokiniana. Dual symbiosis with Epichloë and AMF increased host growth and pathogen resistance through enhanced nutrient uptake, elevated defensive enzyme activities in leaves and rhizosphere, and reduced malondialdehyde concentrations. It also recruited potentially beneficial microorganisms and enriched metabolites negatively associated with disease severity; notably, the metabolite Acetamide 1, which accumulated under dual symbiosis, strongly inhibited the pathogen in vitro. Significant correlations among metabolites, rhizosphere microbial communities, and rhizosphere soil properties revealed coordinated belowground responses under the synergistic regulation of AMF and Epichloë that reduced disease severity. Although both symbionts enhanced host performance, AMF played a stronger role than maternally inherited Epichloë in shaping the rhizosphere processes driving growth and pathogen resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42144853,
year = {2026},
author = {Mbaluto, CM},
title = {Arbuscules up close: Spatiotemporal and single cell translatomics in rice and arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis.},
journal = {The Plant cell},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/plcell/koag146},
pmid = {42144853},
issn = {1532-298X},
}

@article {pmid42144915,
year = {2026},
author = {Humza, M and Shahzadi, E and Basit, A and Khan, MUZ and Imade, FN and Iqbal, B and Shahid, M and Erkoyuncu, MT and Hakki, EE},
title = {Harnessing the Power of Phenolic Compounds for Boosted Crop Resilience and Health.},
journal = {Physiologia plantarum},
volume = {178},
number = {3},
pages = {e70851},
doi = {10.1111/ppl.70851},
pmid = {42144915},
issn = {1399-3054},
mesh = {*Phenols/metabolism ; *Crops, Agricultural/metabolism/physiology ; },
abstract = {Phenolic compounds are secondary metabolites synthesized by plants that play crucial roles in plant defense, growth, and adaptation to environmental stresses. These compounds are primarily derived from the shikimate pathway and are classified based on their carbon skeleton into simple phenolics (C6, C6-Cn, and C6-Cn-C6) and complex phenolics, such as flavonoids, lignans, stilbenes and tannins. Phenolic compounds act as signaling molecules in plant-microbe interactions, including legume-rhizobia symbiosis and arbuscular mycorrhization. They also contribute to plant defense against biotic and abiotic stressors through direct antimicrobial activity, structural reinforcement and modulation of plant immune responses. Phenolic compounds are synthesized via the shikimate/phenylpropanoid or polyketide acetate/malonate pathways, resulting in a diverse array of compounds with distinct biological activities. Recent advances in biotechnology, including elicitation, genetic transformation, and metabolic engineering, have enabled the enhanced production of valuable phenolic compounds in plants. However, challenges remain in optimizing phenolic biosynthesis for improved crop resilience due to the complexity of the regulatory networks and potential trade-offs with plant growth and ecological interactions. Future research should focus on integrating systems biology, multi-omics approaches, and precision breeding to harness the potential of phenolic compounds for sustainable agriculture and crop improvement in the face of increasing biotic and abiotic stress.},
}

*Phenols/metabolism
*Crops, Agricultural/metabolism/physiology

@article {pmid42146066,
year = {2026},
author = {Matsushima, Y and Himi, E and Kitashima, M and Ogura, K and Kotani, S and Hino, A and Inoue, K and Hosoya, H},
title = {A defined synthetic algal medium enables lettuce-free culturing of unfed Paramecium bursaria while preserving host-associated microbiome composition.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1821058},
pmid = {42146066},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Paramecium bursaria is widely cultured using undefined plant-based infusions such as lettuce extract, yet the variable composition of these media remains a major obstacle to experimental reproducibility and microbiome research. Here, we tested whether a chemically defined synthetic algal medium (AF-6) can replace conventional lettuce infusion while maintaining host physiology and associated microbial communities. An unfed clonal strain of P. bursaria, established in 2023 and capable of growth without external nutrient supplementation, proliferated comparably in AF-6 and lettuce media. To confirm that these results were not specific to unfed conditions, we additionally examined a publicly maintained algae-fed strain (NIES-2891), which exhibited similar growth patterns across both media. Cell size, compression-induced extension, and symbiotic algal abundance showed no significant differences between culture conditions. rbcL metataxonomic analysis revealed that Chlorella variabilis was the sole algal endosymbiont detected in all samples. Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing demonstrated that host-associated bacterial community composition remained largely conserved after replacement of lettuce infusion with AF-6 within each strain, although clear differences were observed between strains. Together, these findings establish an "unfed strain + defined algal medium" framework as a reproducible experimental platform for investigating tripartite interactions among ciliate hosts, symbiotic algae, and associated bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid42146069,
year = {2026},
author = {Robinson, JD and Thorp, DT and Van Cleve, J and White, JA},
title = {Symbiont-mediated feminization imposes unavoidable host fitness costs.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1798411},
pmid = {42146069},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Maternally inherited bacterial endosymbionts such as Wolbachia are common in arthropods. Some serve as reproductive manipulators, favoring the production of infected females in host populations despite possible fitness costs to the host. One such manipulation is feminization, in which the symbiont turns genetic males into functional females. To date, all described cases of feminization occur in host systems that are either female heterogametic (ZW-female/ZZ-male) or where females are diploid and males are haploid for sex chromosomes (XX-female/X0-male). Here we test potential fitness costs associated with feminization in the spider Mermessus fradeorum (Linyphiidae), which has a type of XX/X0 sex determination. In addition to a feminizing Wolbachia, this spider can be co-infected with up to four additional maternally-inherited bacterial endosymbionts. Using a series of increasingly speciose symbiont co-infections, including three containing the feminizing Wolbachia, we measured female fecundity and the proportion of developed versus undeveloped offspring. We found that fitness costs were associated only with the feminizing Wolbachia, but not with any of the other symbionts. Eggmasses infected with this Wolbachia had 16% fewer eggs, and 20% of those eggs failed to develop, compared to only 4% failure in eggmasses from other symbiotypes. We hypothesize that the reduced egg viability results from the production of inviable 00 zygotes by feminized X0 individuals, which can provision X chromosomes to only half of their eggs. These results suggest that fitness costs may be an unavoidable consequence of feminization in hosts with an XX/X0 sex determination system, potentially limiting the distribution of this reproductive manipulation phenotype.},
}

@article {pmid42146468,
year = {2026},
author = {Stoutland, IM and Walker, SA and Blackwell, HE},
title = {Domain-swapped LuxR-type quorum sensing receptors reveal divergent ligand-response mechanisms among homologs.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.04.27.721074},
pmid = {42146468},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Many common bacteria use quorum sensing to regulate cell density-dependent phenotypes, including luminescence, biofilm formation, virulence, and symbiosis. The LuxI/R system is the best-characterized quorum sensing pathway in Gram-negative bacteria and consists of a LuxI-type synthase that produces an N -acyl L-homoserine lactone (AHL) autoinducer and a LuxR-type transcription factor that is regulated by AHL binding. Binding of native AHL signal promotes DNA binding and transcriptional regulation in some LuxR homologs (associative-type), while other homologs regulate transcription in the absence of ligand and are inactivated by native signal binding (dissociative-type). To better characterize what features determine ligand-response type, we generated structural mutants of two associative receptors (LasR of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and MrtR of Mesorhizobium tianshanense) and two dissociative receptors (EsaR of Pantoea stewartii and ExpR2 of Pectobacterium versatile). Swapping domains between these receptors revealed that the ligand-binding domain primarily determines associative vs. dissociative activity in response to native AHL agonists. Further, non-native AHL-derived antagonists maintained their activity profiles in receptors with interchanged DNA-binding domains. We also found that the extended linker between domains observed in the dissociative receptors does not determine mechanism of ligand response, and that inter-domain interactions may play an important role in activation for some receptors but not others. Notably, deletion of just one residue from the dissociative receptor EsaR produced a mutant with associative activity, the first time such mechanism switching has been reported for a LuxR-type receptor. These findings illuminate features essential for ligand response and highlight the mechanistic diversity of the LuxR family.

IMPORTANCE: LuxI/R quorum sensing regulates various cell density-dependent phenotypes in Gram-negative bacteria. Prior research has developed small molecule modulators of LuxR-type receptors, with potential applications in anti-virulence, anti-biofouling, and bioengineering. Competitive antagonists have been reported for receptors active in the presence of native ligand but not for receptors active in its absence. A lack of knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of receptor response to ligand limits both our fundamental understanding of the LuxI/R quorum sensing process and the rational design of chemical modulators with superior activity profiles. We used a structural mutagenesis strategy with four LuxR-type receptors that operate via two distinct mechanisms to begin to dissect the structural features that drive differences in ligand response between receptors. These insights could aid in efforts to characterize novel LuxR homologs, understand potential interspecies communication via quorum sensing, and develop improved chemical probes to alter LuxR-type receptor activity.},
}

@article {pmid42147826,
year = {2026},
author = {Taboada, S and Gracia-Sancha, C and Galià-Camps, C and Böhne, A and Monteiro, R and Marcussen, T and Oomen, RA and Struck, TH and Gut, M and Aguilera, L and Câmara Ferreira, F and Cruz, F and Gómez-Garrido, J and Alioto, TS and Martin, F and Lazar, A and Haggerty, L and Bortoluzzi, C},
title = {ERGA-BGE reference genome of Xylophaga dorsalis - a common deep-sea wood-boring bivalve with Atlantic-Mediterranean distribution.},
journal = {Open research Europe},
volume = {6},
number = {},
pages = {33},
doi = {10.12688/openreseurope.22692.2},
pmid = {42147826},
issn = {2732-5121},
abstract = {Xylophaga dorsalis is a common Atlantic-Mediterranean mollusc that plays a crucial role in deep-sea habitats, where it digests wood that reaches the seabed through a unique symbiosis with specialised bacteria. The reference genome of X. dorsalis thus offers a crucial resource for uncovering the genetic basis of the species adaptability to wood bore in deep-water ecosystems. The entirety of the genome sequence was assembled into 18 contiguous chromosomal pseudomolecules (superscaffolds) and 1 mitochondrial genome. This chromosome-level assembly encompasses 0.451 Gb, composed of 1,259 contigs and 320 scaffolds, with contig and scaffold N50 values of 1.30 Mb and 25.4 Mb, respectively. The genome assembly encodes 19,441 protein-coding genes (34,405 transcripts) and 6,716 non-coding genes.},
}

@article {pmid42148382,
year = {2025},
author = {Al-Aali, ZHA and Jawad, S},
title = {Impact of high wind speed on blooming plants-honeybees-honey production model .},
journal = {F1000Research},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1459},
doi = {10.12688/f1000research.172134.2},
pmid = {42148382},
issn = {2046-1402},
mesh = {Animals ; Bees/physiology ; *Wind ; Pollination ; *Honey ; Ecosystem ; *Models, Biological ; Symbiosis ; *Models, Theoretical ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Local ecosystems and global agriculture are contingent upon the mutualistic relationship between pollinators and floral plants. In symbiosis, pollinators increase agricultural production by improving plant cross-pollination, genetic variety, crop quality, and yield. The potential impact on plant reproduction is particularly alarming due to the decline of pollinating insects. Habitat loss, diseases, climate change, pesticides, and predation have all contributed to the decline of pollinator species. High-speed wind is a significant factor that impacts the mutualistic relationship between plants and pollinators.

METHODS: Studying the dynamics of interactions between blooming plants and honeybee populations is crucial for addressing honeybee decline and ensuring sustainable ecosystems. This work employs mathematical modeling to analyze the dynamics of a blooming plant, honeybee population, and honey production symbiosis, with a special emphasis on the effect of high-speed wind flow.

RESULTS: The stability of various ecological equilibria has been investigated using dynamical system theory. Bifurcation phenomena, such as transcritical and Hopf bifurcations, have been discovered using bifurcation theory. Furthermore, the numerical results show that high wind flow can cause the extinction of the honeybee population and honey production.

CONCLUSIONS: Due to the rapid depletion of flowering plants and the high rate of wind speed, the populations of honeybees and blossoming plants are at risk of becoming unsustainable. However, the combination of reduced wind flow and increased symbiotic strengths can bolster the stability and sustainability of blooming plant-honeybee-honey production ecosystems. These findings inform conservation policies targeted toward protecting honeybees and increasing biodiversity.},
}

Animals
Bees/physiology
*Wind
Pollination
*Honey
Ecosystem
*Models, Biological
Symbiosis
*Models, Theoretical

@article {pmid42148643,
year = {2026},
author = {Galib, FA and Kafi, AA and Biswas, S and Hasnat, S and Sujon, MSP and Sakif, TI and Hoque, MN and Rahman, M and Rahman, MM and Alam, JM and Gupta, DR and Islam, T},
title = {Draft genome sequences of two Ralstonia mannitolilytica strains (H3G44 and H3G46) isolated from the gut of captured Tenualosa ilisha.},
journal = {Microbiology resource announcements},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0031026},
doi = {10.1128/mra.00310-26},
pmid = {42148643},
issn = {2576-098X},
abstract = {We report draft genome sequences of Ralstonia mannitolilytica strains H3G44 and H3G46 isolated from the gut of captured Tenualosa ilisha in Bangladesh. Oxford Nanopore sequencing generated 4.76 and 4.77 Mb assemblies (66% GC) in three and two contigs, revealing metabolic traits linked to possible iron acquisition, stress response, and potential symbiotic interactions.},
}

@article {pmid42149909,
year = {2026},
author = {Bonacolta, AM and Kravitz, T and Mozo, R and Baker, LJ and Heuer, RM and Grosell, M and Del Campo, J},
title = {Symbiotic bacteria may support calcium carbonate precipitation in the Gulf toadfish.},
journal = {PLoS biology},
volume = {24},
number = {5},
pages = {e3003764},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pbio.3003764},
pmid = {42149909},
issn = {1545-7885},
abstract = {Marine fish play a significant yet understudied role in the oceanic carbon cycle through the production of magnesium-rich calcium carbonate (CaCO3) precipitates known as ichthyocarbonates. These deposits form in the gut of marine teleost fish in response to salinity, serving as part of their osmoregulation strategy. Through this, marine fish may contribute as much as 9.04 Pg of CaCO3 per year in global new carbonate production, being equivalent to or potentially higher than the production by coccolithophores and pelagic foraminifera. Despite their ecological relevance, the biological mechanisms driving ichthyocarbonate precipitation remain to be fully resolved. Intriguingly, bacteria are consistently found in intimate association with ichthyocarbonate precipitates. Given the widespread capacity of prokaryotes to mediate CaCO3 precipitation, this association points to a previously unexplored microbial contribution to the process. To investigate the potential role of bacteria in ichthyocarbonate production, we subjected Gulf toadfish (Opsanus beta) to salinity treatments common to their native range and known to elicit changes in CaCO3 precipitation. To assess the respective contributions of the host and its microbiota to ichthyocarbonate formation in the gut, we characterized the microbiome across the toadfish gut and performed meta-transcriptomic analysis. Across the toadfish gut, we identify a high abundance of vibrios associated with ichthyocarbonates with the metabolic potential for CaCO3 precipitation. Specifically, we observe the expression of the transcriptional activator of urease (ureR) by Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae, which can induce the precipitation of CaCO3 via the production of bicarbonate. We demonstrate that CaCO3 precipitation in marine fish may not solely be a host-driven process, but potentially the result of a functional symbiosis with gut-associated Vibrio bacteria. We hypothesize that just as photosymbionts enable corals to build reefs, fish hosts, along with their microbial partners, may synergistically contribute to oceanic carbonate production. This discovery, if confirmed, expands the role of symbiosis in marine biomineralization and underscores its broader influence on global biogeochemical cycles.},
}

@article {pmid42150496,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, C and Hao, Q and Zhang, T and Sun, T and Hou, N and Zhao, X and Li, D},
title = {Nanobubbles alleviate iron-mediated cell death in algae-bacteria symbiotic systems under sulfamethoxazole stress: Insights into electron transfer and ferrikinetics.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {512},
number = {},
pages = {142389},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.142389},
pmid = {42150496},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {In livestock wastewater, antibiotics infiltrate microbial cells through the siderophore-mediated "Trojan horse" mechanism, disrupting iron metabolic homeostasis and potentially inducing ferroptosis, thereby posing a significant threat to microbial communities. Given the close association between iron metabolism and electron transfer processes, it remains uncertain whether enhancing electron transfer under antibiotic stress can alleviate this effect and reduce the risk of ferroptosis. Here, we investigated how the addition of nanobubbles (NBs) carrying electrons enhances the iron-nitrogen cycle coupling mechanism of algae-bacteria symbiotic systems (ABSS) and improves the microbial interactions and iron metabolic functions under the stress of sulfamethoxazole (SMX). The results show that NBs activate the strict response of ABSS by carrying electrons and significantly increase the content of (p)ppGpp to regulate the release of iron carriers. Concurrently, the enhanced activity of the electron transport and key enzymes involved in nitrogen metabolism contributes to the high-efficiency synchronous removal of NH4[+]-N (81.5% ± 10.6%) and SMX (78.2% ± 11.4%) by the ABSS. Microbial community analysis demonstrated that NBs alleviated the inhibitory impact of SMX on microbial activity and enriched functional bacterial groups, especially nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria. Moreover, genome-scale metabolic models indicated that NBs triggered an increase in the metabolic exchange fluxes of (p)ppGpp and glutathione within the microbial community, implying that microbial communities may maintain iron homeostasis via interspecies cooperation and the stringent response to deal with SMX contamination. This study offers significant insights into the response mechanisms of microbial interactions to antibiotic contamination in wastewater treatment systems.},
}

@article {pmid42150636,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, F and Feng, X and Hou, W and Xu, Y and Liu, C and Li, X and Zhang, Y},
title = {The performance and microbial community characteristics of a novel multilayer high-light energy utilization rate algal-bacterial symbiotic wastewater treatment system.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134898},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134898},
pmid = {42150636},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The algal-bacterial symbiotic system is a promising sustainable technology for wastewater treatment. This study conducted a comparative analysis of a novel multilayer high-light energy utilization rate algal-bacterial symbiotic system and a conventional activated sludge system, focusing on pollutant removal efficiency, energy consumption, and microbial community structure under temperature variation. Experiments were performed over two 48-day periods at 20 °C and 30 °C. Results indicated that at 30 °C, the symbiotic system achieved removal efficiencies of 96.84 ± 1.20% for COD, 99.87 ± 0.12% for NH4[+]-N, and 93.00 ± 1.80% for PO4[3-]-P, was all significantly better than the treatment efficiency under 20 °C conditions (p < 0.05). However, total nitrogen removal was somewhat limited, likely due to elevated dissolved oxygen levels (averaging 6.7 ± 0.45 mg/L). The symbiotic system consumed 0.364 kWh per day, representing a 46% reduction in energy use compared to the activated sludge system. The aeration energy consumption of the algal-bacterial symbiotic system is only 0.096 kWh/day, which is 20% of that of the activated sludge system. At 30 °C, the microbial-algal symbiosis system supported a more diverse microbial community, and the beneficial bacterial genera and microalgae flourished, while algivorous microorganisms were suppressed. Overall, the algal-bacterial symbiotic system operated at 30 °C demonstrated superior performance in efficient pollutant removal, energy savings, and carbon emission reduction, which can be attributed to a stable and synergistic microbial ecosystem promoted by optimal temperature regulation. This study provides theoretical support for optimizing and advancing resource-oriented applications of algal-bacterial symbiotic systems.},
}

@article {pmid42150701,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, Z and Xu, H},
title = {Distinct microbiome signatures associated with wing polyphenism in the wing-dimorphic planthopper Nilaparvata lugens.},
journal = {Journal of insect physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {104994},
doi = {10.1016/j.jinsphys.2026.104994},
pmid = {42150701},
issn = {1879-1611},
abstract = {Wing polyphenism is crucial for the ecological adaptation of the wing-dimorphic planthopper Nilaparvata lugens, yet its underlying association with symbiotic microbiota remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated three N. lugens strains (Field, HSD, and Lab) exhibiting stable but distinct macropterous-to-brachypterous ratios. 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing revealed that the composition and structure of the microbiota differed significantly not only among the diverse strains but also between distinct wing morphs within the same genetic background and living environment. Furthermore, functional predictions demonstrated that the relative abundance of aerobic bacteria and specific metabolic pathways, notably steroid hormone biosynthesis and linoleic acid metabolism, were positively correlated with the macropterous ratio. These findings suggest that wing morph determination in N. lugens is intimately associated with distinct microbiome configurations and host-microbe metabolic interactions, providing a novel microecological perspective on insect phenotypic plasticity. However, further experimental validations are required to determine whether these microbial shifts drive wing morph development or are a consequence of divergent host physiology.},
}

@article {pmid42151236,
year = {2026},
author = {Khalifa, AM and ElBaghdady, KZ and Hamed, MM and Mohammad, AS and Khaled, MA},
title = {Integrating spectral signatures and microbial profiling to differentiate diseased and healthy corals in the Red sea.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42151236},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Animals ; *Anthozoa/microbiology ; Indian Ocean ; Coral Reefs ; *Bacteria/classification/isolation & purification ; Microbiota ; },
abstract = {Coral reef ecosystems face increasing threats from microbial diseases, especially those induced by bacterial infections. Conventional diagnostic techniques often require invasive sampling, extended processing time and are limited in their spatial applicability. Spectral reflectance analysis offers a non-invasive means for detecting subtle physiological alterations associated with coral disease; however, its application in characterizing microbiological changes remains largely unexplored. This research aimed to differentiate healthy from diseased coral colonies by analyzing the spectral fingerprints of the disease and their associated bacterial communities, using hyperspectral data, microbial profiling, and multivariate statistical analysis. The bacterial species identified in healthy coral samples included Bacillus subtilis, Cytobacillus firmus, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, and Bacillus sporothermodurans. In contrast, the bacteria associated with diseased coral samples were Vibrio pelagius and Vibrio fortis. Healthy corals demonstrate consistently lower reflectance across all bands in comparison to diseased corals. The reflectance of diseased Favia lacuna showed a notable increase when compared to healthy specimens, especially at wavelengths of 594 nm, 649 nm, and 702 nm. In contrast, Acropora humilis exhibited heightened peaks at wavelengths of 580 nm, 693 nm, and 702 nm. The analysis of the second derivative revealed that coral colonies affected by disease exhibited distinct negative peaks at wavelengths of 450-460 nm, 580-590 nm, and 700-800 nm. The identified peaks are likely associated with tissue thinning, skeletal exposure, or microbial biofilm accumulation rather than pigment absorption, given that this region is dominated by scattering effects. In contrast, healthy colonies exhibited stable characteristics at approximately 675 nm, indicating the presence of intact symbiotic chlorophyll and preserved physiological structure. The present study demonstrates that hyperspectral reflectance profiling of bacterially infected corals shows promising potential as a non-invasive approach for differentiating healthy and diseased coral microbiomes. The integration of spectral indicators with microbial community data provides preliminary insights into coral health assessment and may contribute to the development of improved strategies for disease detection and understanding coral-microbe interactions under environmental stress.},
}

Animals
*Anthozoa/microbiology
Indian Ocean
Coral Reefs
*Bacteria/classification/isolation & purification
Microbiota

@article {pmid42151475,
year = {2026},
author = {Kobiałka, M and Świerczewski, D and Walczak, M and Pisarek-Pacek, A and Wóycicki, RK},
title = {Complementary Microscopic and Metabarcoding Studies Allow for a Better Understanding of the Symbiotic Microbiome of Leafhopper Species Iassus lanio (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae).},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00248-026-02790-7},
pmid = {42151475},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {Sonata 17, project no. 2021/43/D/NZ8/02183//National Science Centre, Poland/ ; },
abstract = {Leafhoppers' microbiome patterns were shaped by deep co-evolutionary adaptation driven by dietary specialization. Their microbiome is dominated by obligate symbionts that supplement their nutrient-poor phloem-sap diet, as well as facultative symbionts, including both bacterial and fungal microorganisms. In this study, NGS metabarcoding techniques were performed, supplemented by confocal and electron microscopy, to thoroughly investigate the symbiotic system of the Auchenorrhyncha species Iassus lanio, a representative of the poorly studied leafhopper subfamily Iassinae. The obtained results include descriptions of the composition, distribution, and ultrastructure of microorganisms, as well as the phylogeny of ancient symbionts. Two obligate symbionts were found: the ancient Auchenorrhyncha symbiont Karelsulcia bacterium and the yeast-like symbiont Ophiocordyceps. Karelsulcia bacteria occur exclusively in specialized organs called bacteriomes, while fungal microorganisms inhabit mycetocytes within the fat body. Both symbionts are transmitted transovarially from mother to offspring. The presence of Wolbachia, Sodalis and Cardinium was detected. Sodalis and Cardinium were observed in the fat body. The ultrastructure of Cardinium showed a characteristic microtubule crest inside. The obtained phylogeny of Karelsulcia bacteria indicates Iassinae affinity with the Coelidiinae and Deltocephalinae subfamily symbionts. Taxonomic profiling revealed that both sequencing methods detected the same range of bacterial taxa, while ONT exhibited improved resolution for dominant species. Differential abundance analysis emphasized platform-specific biases. These studies highlight the complementary roles of different microscopy and metabarcoding techniques, demonstrating the complexity of symbiotic systems in leafhoppers and thereby improving our understanding of the host-symbiont relationship and expanding our knowledge of the structure and localization of insect microorganisms.},
}

@article {pmid42151591,
year = {2026},
author = {Zavarshani, N and Zarei, M and Shamloo-Dashtpagerdi, R and Dadkhodaie, A and Shirazi, SS},
title = {AMF-induced salinity tolerance in durum wheat is associated with transcriptomic modulation of the Cation/Calcium Exchanger 1 (CCX1).},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {36},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {42151591},
issn = {1432-1890},
mesh = {*Triticum/genetics/microbiology/physiology/metabolism ; *Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Salt Tolerance/genetics ; *Transcriptome ; *Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Plant Roots/microbiology/genetics ; },
abstract = {Salinity is a major abiotic stress that severely constrains durum wheat (Triticum turgidum subsp. durum) productivity. Although the beneficial effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on plant performance under salt stress are well established, the molecular mechanisms underlying this symbiosis remain insufficiently characterized. In this study, we applied an integrated transcriptomic and network-based approach to identify regulatory components associated with AMF-mediated salt stress responses in durum wheat. Comparative RNA-Seq analysis between salinity-stressed and AMF-treated plants revealed 572 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Network topology analysis identified the Cation/Calcium Exchanger 1 (TdCCX1) as a candidate hub gene with high centrality, suggesting a potential integrative role in ion and stress signaling pathways. Promoter analysis of TdCCX1 revealed multiple stress- and symbiosis-related cis-elements, indicating dual regulatory control. Physiological and biochemical validation in a salinity-susceptible durum wheat genotype showed that AMF inoculation, particularly with Rhizophagus irregularis, significantly improved shoot and root biomass, enhanced K[+]/Na[+] homeostasis, increased phosphorus accumulation, and reduced oxidative damage under salinity. Notably, TdCCX1 expression was strongly induced by salt stress but significantly attenuated in AMF-colonized plants. These findings suggest that AMF colonization modulates ion-exchange-related transcriptional networks, potentially reducing the plant's reliance on energy-intensive internal transport processes. This study provides transcriptome-guided insights into AMF-host interactions under salinity and highlights TdCCX1 as a promising candidate for future functional studies.},
}

*Triticum/genetics/microbiology/physiology/metabolism
*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Salt Tolerance/genetics
*Transcriptome
*Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Plant Roots/microbiology/genetics

@article {pmid42151636,
year = {2026},
author = {Khateb, AM},
title = {Review of the Microbial Spectrum of Mixed Respiratory Fungal Infections.},
journal = {Journal of epidemiology and global health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s44197-026-00583-2},
pmid = {42151636},
issn = {2210-6014},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This review examines the increasing clinical challenge of mixed respiratory fungal infections (MRFIs), emphasizing interkingdom interactions and their impact on disease progression and patient outcomes.

MAIN BODY: We critically analyze current literature on the clinical implications, risk factors, and diagnostic complexities of MRFIs, with a primary focus on fungal-bacterial, fungal-viral, and fungal-parasitic co-infections. Fungal-bacterial co-infections, often involving Candida spp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, significantly worsen disease severity. Fungal-viral co-infections, particularly in COVID-19 patients with Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus, represent a major threat. While rare, fungal-parasitic co-infections pose risks for immunocompromised individuals. The review highlights diagnostic difficulties due to non-specific symptoms and the vital need to distinguish colonization from true infection. It also explores the complex symbiotic, synergistic, and antagonistic relationships between fungi and other microorganisms, alongside the immune-modulating role of commensal fungi.

CONCLUSION: Ultimately, this review seeks to enhance understanding of MRFIs to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies and patient care.},
}

@article {pmid42142570,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Z and Ren, M and Ji, H and Lu, H and Yang, L and Cui, D and Peng, Y},
title = {A loofah-based microalgae-bacteria symbiosis drives efficient nutrient removal from low-C/N wastewater: high biomass characterization and mechanism insights.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {124769},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2026.124769},
pmid = {42142570},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {This study developed a biodegradable loofah-immobilized microalgae-bacteria (LMB) system to enhance nutrient removal from municipal wastewater through coupled algal assimilation, bacterial transformation, and biomass retention. Operated under a 12 h:12 h light-dark cycle without aeration or external carbon addition, the LMB system achieved high removal efficiencies of 97.71 ± 1.83% for NH4[+]-N and 93.84 ± 5.32% for PO4[3-]-P, with corresponding removal rates of 27.65 ± 0.15 and 2.65 ± 0.32 g·m[-3]·d[-1], respectively. The total inorganic nitrogen removal efficiency reached 81.84 ± 7.38%, indicating efficient deep nitrogen removal under carbon-limited conditions. Mechanistic investigations showed that the loofah carrier continuously released bioavailable organic carbon, including proteins, polysaccharides, humus and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which supported microalgal growth and promoted the coupling of photoautotrophic nutrient assimilation with heterotrophic denitrification. Phase-specific nitrogen transformation analysis further revealed that microalgal assimilation dominated nitrogen removal during the light phase, whereas heterotrophic denitrification driven by loofah-derived organic carbon, became the major pathway for deep nitrogen removal in the dark phase. Microbial community analysis indicated that functional bacteria, including SM1A02 (4.53%), Exiguobacterium (6.95%) and Clostridium (36.98%), were enriched together with the dominant microalgal genus Tetradesmus (42.75%), forming a cooperative pollutant-degrading consortium. These results suggest that the LMB system offers a low-energy and carbon-efficient strategy for nutrient removal from wastewater while providing potential for biomass valorization.},
}

@article {pmid42142801,
year = {2026},
author = {Gerlei, M and Villéger, R and Pailler, L and Lafitte, A and Linder, M and Braquart-Varnier, C},
title = {Sex and Wolbachia endosymbiont modulate lipid profiles in terrestrial isopod Armadillidium vulgare.},
journal = {Journal of invertebrate pathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108651},
doi = {10.1016/j.jip.2026.108651},
pmid = {42142801},
issn = {1096-0805},
abstract = {Most eukaryotic organisms live in close association with microorganisms known as symbionts, which influence host evolution, physiology, and ecosystem functioning. Among these, Wolbachia pipientis, a vertically transmitted endosymbiont widespread in arthropods, can manipulate host reproduction, such as feminizing genetic males in isopod crustaceans, raising the possibility that it also modulates host metabolism. Here, we investigated the impact of Wolbachia infection on the lipid composition of the woodlouse Armadillidium vulgare. Lipid profiling using TLC-FID, RP-LC-RI and GC-FID was performed on asymbiotic males, asymbiotic females, and Wolbachia-symbiotic females. Our results show that both sex and symbiont infection shape the quantitative distribution of lipid classes despite a largely conserved fatty acid spectrum. Males had higher proportions of polar (44.25%) and saturated (22.42%) lipids, whereas females accumulated more neutral lipids (46.39%), a trend amplified by Wolbachia carriage (53.58%). These shifts likely reflect targeted manipulation of host lipid metabolism by Wolbachia, altering hydrocarbon abundance, optimizing energy storage, and adjusting membrane composition to promote its persistence. Overall, our findings highlight the intersecting roles of sex and symbiont carriage in shaping the lipid landscape of woodlice and suggest that lipid remodeling is a key mechanism by which Wolbachia ensures its viability and reproductive success.},
}

@article {pmid42141721,
year = {2026},
author = {An, J and Limpens, E},
title = {Regulating Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Permissiveness.},
journal = {Molecular plant},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.molp.2026.05.009},
pmid = {42141721},
issn = {1752-9867},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have facilitated the colonization of land by plants some 470 million years ago. The vast majority of land plants have maintained a symbiotic association with these fungi to facilitate the uptake of mineral nutrients, such as phosphorus, at the cost of photosynthates delivered to the fungus in the form of lipids and sugars. Despite their importance for plant nutrient status, plants can refuse AMF if soil nutrient conditions are such that it is less costly for the plants to take up the nutrients by themselves or if environmental conditions are not appropriate. Recently, Hong et al. (2026) revealed how multiple signaling pathways in rice converge on a transcription factor complex involving the GRAS transcription factors NSP1 and NSP2 to control AM colonization. In this spotlight we highlight recent insights into the molecular mechanisms that control the permissiveness of plants to allow AMF entry into their roots (Figure 1fig1).},
}

@article {pmid42049999,
year = {2026},
author = {Jelínková, B and Bellinvia, E and Schwarzerová, K},
title = {Recent insights into the plant ARP2/3 complex.},
journal = {Protoplasma},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42049999},
issn = {1615-6102},
abstract = {More than two decades have passed since the first identification of the ARP2/3 complex in plants. During this time, numerous studies have advanced our understanding of the complex's role in actin cytoskeleton regulation. However, compared with opisthokonts, the mechanisms and functional contexts of ARP2/3 activity in plants remain only partially understood. Since the last comprehensive synthesis, substantial progress has been made in elucidating plant-specific features of ARP2/3 regulation, including upstream control via the WAVE/SCAR module, emerging roles of additional nucleation-promoting factors, and evidence for subunit specialization. This review shows that plant ARP2/3 acts as a context-dependent, membrane-associated actin nucleator instead of a global organizer of the cortical actin network. We summarize current knowledge on the localized activities of ARP2/3 at distinct membrane systems-including the plasma membrane, endomembranes, and autophagy-related structures-and discuss the mechanisms that recruit ARP2/3 to these membranes and enable its functions in cell expansion, membrane trafficking, immunity, and symbiotic interactions. Despite this progress, the downstream mechanistic consequences of ARP2/3-nucleated branched actin in plants remain largely unresolved.},
}

@article {pmid42137797,
year = {2026},
author = {Khan, GW and Gu, G and Lai, Y and Yang, C and Zhou, T and Lai, R and Zhang, B},
title = {Effects of symbiotic bacteria on the parasitism efficacy of Aphidius gifuensis against Myzus persicae.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1811839},
pmid = {42137797},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Aphidius gifuensis is an important parasitic wasp used to control Myzus persicae (tobacco aphid), a key pest in tobacco-producing areas. Over the past 10 years, the use of A. gifuensis has been widely promoted, and its natural population has steadily increased, playing a crucial role in aphid control and the prevention of aphid-transmitted viral diseases. However, long-term aphid protection and inbreeding of A. gifuensis populations have led to the degeneration of the species, reduced parasitism efficiency, and increased control costs. In response to these challenges, this study investigated the effects of symbiotic bacteria on the parasitism and reproductive capacity of A. gifuensis. The results show that Bacillus subtilis and Exiguobacterium gifuensis significantly promoted the parasitism rate of A. gifuensis, with the highest increases of 5.33 and 3.67%, respectively, compared to the control. Additionally, the presence of Acinetobacter radioresistens altered the activity of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme in A. gifuensis. At all tested concentrations, except for 0.97 × 10[10] CFU/mL[-1], SOD enzyme protein levels were inhibited, with the greatest reduction of 1.81% compared to the control. Furthermore, A. radioresistens significantly reduced the total activity of the SOD enzyme by 1.54%. Bacillus subtilis also significantly suppressed phenoloxidase activity, which was reduced by 44.78% compared to the control. These findings suggest that B. subtilis and E. gifuensis are beneficial for enhancing the parasitism efficacy of A. gifuensis in controlling M. persicae.},
}

@article {pmid42138075,
year = {2026},
author = {Basakis, P and Shih, LK and Li, J and Brat, DJ},
title = {Uncovering a feedback loop in glioblastoma that reinforces stemness and immunosuppression.},
journal = {The Journal of clinical investigation},
volume = {136},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1172/JCI205841},
pmid = {42138075},
issn = {1558-8238},
mesh = {*Glioblastoma/immunology/pathology/genetics/metabolism ; Humans ; *Neoplastic Stem Cells/pathology/immunology/metabolism ; Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1, alpha Subunit/immunology/metabolism/genetics ; *Feedback, Physiological ; *Brain Neoplasms/immunology/pathology/metabolism/genetics ; Animals ; Transcription Factor RelA/immunology/metabolism/genetics ; Tumor Microenvironment ; },
abstract = {Glioma stem cells (GSCs) are a small subset of self-renewing, plastic, and multipotent neoplastic cells in glioblastoma (GBM) that sit at the apex of a cellular differentiation hierarchy. Elucidating pathways that enhance GSC properties and determine their cell-specific interactions within the immunosuppressive GBM microenvironment are critical for developing effective therapeutic approaches. The CLOCK-BMAL1 complex, which is well known for its activity as a circadian rhythm-regulating transcription factor, plays a critical role in maintaining GSC stemness, and the gene encoding CLOCK was found to be amplified in about 5% of GBM cases. Here, Zhou et al. have uncovered a "symbiotic exclusivity" relationship between CLOCK-BMAL1 and TFPI2, which is also amplified in a small proportion of GBM cases. This relationship forms a HIF-1α/NF-κB P65-mediated positive feedback loop that boosts the proliferative and tumor-enhancing capacities of GSC and immunosuppressive microglia. This self-amplifying regulatory circuit represents an opportunity for intervention to inhibit GBM growth.},
}

*Glioblastoma/immunology/pathology/genetics/metabolism
Humans
*Neoplastic Stem Cells/pathology/immunology/metabolism
Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1, alpha Subunit/immunology/metabolism/genetics
*Feedback, Physiological
*Brain Neoplasms/immunology/pathology/metabolism/genetics
Animals
Transcription Factor RelA/immunology/metabolism/genetics
Tumor Microenvironment

@article {pmid42139541,
year = {2026},
author = {Hamm, JN and Dombrowski, N and Valentin-Alvarado, LE and Greening, C and Williams, TA and Spang, A},
title = {New lineages provide insights into the convergent evolution of extreme salt adaptation within symbiotic Archaea.},
journal = {Molecular biology and evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/molbev/msag091},
pmid = {42139541},
issn = {1537-1719},
abstract = {Environmental genomics has led to the discovery of many new lineages of archaea, including "DPANN" (or Nanobdellati), comprising organisms with small genomes, reduced gene content, and potentially symbiotic or parasitic lifestyles. DPANN live in various environments, and several lineages have been identified that are adapted to extremely high salt concentrations, including the Nanohaloarchaeota. Since it was long thought that the Haloarchaea (within 'Euryarchaeota') were the only high salt-adapted archaea, the origins of these genome-reduced halophiles have been debated. Here we used phylogenetic, comparative genomic, and gene-tree/species-tree reconciliation approaches to resolve the evolution of halophily within DPANN, making use of recently-published genomes that help to inform the phylogenetic placement and genome evolution of salt-adapted lineages. Phylogenetic analysis placed Nanohaloarchaeota sister to a previously uncharacterised lineage, which we here refer to as Terrarchaeota. Terrarchaeota appear to be predominantly anaerobic thermophiles that are not adapted to high salt concentrations, indicating that adaptation to high salt evolved after their divergence from Nanohaloarchaeota. Furthermore, our analyses identified genomic hallmarks of salt adaptation in another recently discovered halophilic DPANN lineage within Aenigmatarchaeota, the Haloaenigmatarchaeaceae. We found that the Nanohaloarchaeota and Haloaenigmatarchaeaceae have distinct sets of proteins that enable life at high salt concentrations but share a common mechanism of evolutionary adaptation, in which niche-relevant genes were acquired horizontally from their halophilic hosts. This work provides the first detailed investigation into the enigmatic Terrarchaeota, and new insights into the convergent evolution of high salt adaptation within symbiotic clades of Archaea.},
}

@article {pmid42141429,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, MC and Lin, HC and Kolbasov, GA and Høeg, JT and Chan, BKK},
title = {Host-driven adaptive radiation and host usage in sponge-associated barnacles.},
journal = {BMC biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12915-026-02618-3},
pmid = {42141429},
issn = {1741-7007},
support = {21-54-52003 MNT_a//Russian Foundation for Basic Research/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Adaptive radiation often involves ecological and morphological diversification, influenced by environmental opportunities, such as symbiotic interactions. Sponge-associated barnacles have evolved specialized traits, such as modified shells, to thrive within sponge hosts. However, the evolutionary mechanisms driving their diversification and host specificity remain unclear.

RESULTS: We integrate molecular phylogenetics (12S, 16S, 18S, COI, H3), detailed morphology, and ecological assessment to examine how host usage influences sponge-associated barnacle diversification. Our findings reveal two primary barnacle clades: Membranous-Base (M-Base) and Calcareous-Base (C-Base), each exhibiting distinct morphological adaptations. Most of the species exhibit strong host specificity being specialists within particular sponges. However, there is no significant correlation between morphology and host specificity, nor a clear co-evolutionary pattern with sponge hosts. These results challenge the assumption that host-driven specialization alone explains diversification.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that sponge-associated barnacles show a pattern of host-associated divergence, with generalist species occupying basal positions and specialization evolving from ancestrally broader host-use states. The last common ancestor of sponge barnacles appears to have been associated with Clionaida sponges, which may serve as permissive hosts due to their lower biochemical diversity.},
}

@article {pmid41922553,
year = {2026},
author = {Cloud, RE and Irwin, P and Muturi, EJ and Cáceres, CE},
title = {Characterizing the Microbiome and Prevalence of Wolbachia in Culex pipiens Complex and Culex restuans Mosquitoes in the Midwest United States.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {89},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41922553},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {DEB - 1754115//National Science Foundation/ ; DBI - 2022049//Genomics and Eco-evolution of Multi-scale Symbioses Institute/ ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Despite the ecological importance of symbiotic relationships, few studies have explored how microbial communities vary across species complexes or within hybrid zones. We characterized the spatial and temporal variation in microbial communities in Culex pipiens complex and Culex restuans mosquitoes, the most important vectors for West Nile virus in the midwestern United States. Cx. pipiens complex and Cx. restuans mosquitoes were collected monthly from May to September 2023 from three geographic regions (Champaign County, IL, Cook County, IL and Dane County, WI). DNA from individual mosquitoes was sequenced using Illumina NovaSeq amplicon sequencing to identify the mosquito species and characterize their bacterial communities. Microbial composition differed between Cx. pipiens complex and Cx. restuans, driven by high relative abundance of Wolbachia in Cx. pipiens complex compared to Cx. restuans, which also contributed to greater within-species microbiome variability. Despite the limited sample sizes for some forms and hybrids, there were no detectable differences in the bacterial diversity or community composition among the five observed Cx. pipiens forms. Microbial diversity also varied regionally and over the sampling season, increasing later in the season. These findings demonstrate a microbial convergence within Cx. pipiens complex and reveal that spatiotemporal factors influence acquisition of environmentally acquired microbes highlighting the dynamic nature of mosquito-microbe interactions.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00248-026-02750-1.},
}

@article {pmid42130170,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, Y and Hu, F and Yin, W and Fan, Z and Fan, H and He, W and Guo, C and Bao, X and Zhao, L and Wang, F and Nan, Y and Yu, A and Zhao, C and Wu, Z and Chai, Q},
title = {Gibberellin-flavonoid crosstalk intensifies symbiotic nitrogen fixation in pea during maize-pea interspecific root interactions.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71259},
pmid = {42130170},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {24JRRA844//Gansu Province Joint Research Foundation of China/ ; GSAU-DKZY-2025-002//China Agricultural University Corresponding Support Research Joint Fund/ ; 23ZDNA008//Gansu Provincial Science and Technology Major Project/ ; 32360550//the Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32472247//the Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; GSCS-2023-03//the State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science of China/ ; GSCS-2023-05//the State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science of China/ ; },
abstract = {Excessive synthetic nitrogen (N) fertilizer use threatens sustainable agriculture, highlighting the need to optimize symbiotic N fixation (SNF) in cereal/legume intercropping systems. Although interspecific root interactions (IRIs) may enhance SNF, the associated regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. A 3-yr field experiment showed that Zea mays/Pisum sativum intercropping can promote SNF and N accumulation. Furthermore, glasshouse root barrier and rhizobial inoculation experiments revealed that IRIs can enhance N accumulation via pea-rhizobia symbiosis. Mechanistically, IRIs increase nodule number and inhibit nodule senescence, which are accompanied by transcriptional reprogramming and altered phytohormone abundance (e.g. gibberellin). Exogenous paclobutrazol and gibberellin treatments confirmed that SNF enhancement during IRIs involves gibberellin synthesis. Exogenous gibberellin did not affect SNF-related advantages due to IRIs, indicating that IRIs autonomously optimize endogenous gibberellin to fine-tune SNF. Genetic evidence (silencing of PsGA20OX8 and PsCHS1-4, which affect gibberellin and flavonoid biosynthesis, respectively) and pharmacological evidence (complementation with exogenous gibberellin and flavonoid, respectively) demonstrated that crosstalk between the gibberellin and flavonoid increases nodule number and inhibits nodule senescence, thereby enhancing SNF. These findings support improving legume SNF via IRIs to optimize intercropping systems and promote sustainable agriculture development.},
}

@article {pmid42130343,
year = {2026},
author = {de Oliveira Rocha, M and Messenburger, G and Nuñez, FF and Lindenau, IB and Pieniz, S},
title = {Effect of Probiotic and Symbiotic Supplementation on Lipid Parameters in Individuals With Overweight and Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Obesity reviews : an official journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70158},
doi = {10.1111/obr.70158},
pmid = {42130343},
issn = {1467-789X},
support = {//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul/ ; //Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; //Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of probiotic and symbiotic supplementation on lipid parameters in individuals with overweight and obesity to elucidate the aspects involved in this topic.

METHODS: The PubMed, EMBASE, LILACS, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Science Direct electronic databases were systematically searched for RCTs up to April 2023. The risk of bias was evaluated using the updated version of the Cochrane tool for assessing bias risk in randomized trials (RoB 2). The certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. The review was registered in PROSPERO under the number: CRD42023442133.

RESULTS: Of the 1363 articles identified in the search, 28 were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Data analysis showed a significant effect of probiotics and symbiotics in reducing total cholesterol (MD = -0.09 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.16, -0.03), LDL (MD = -0.06 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.12, -0.01), and triglycerides (MD = -0.05 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.10, -0.01) levels, but no significant effect on HDL (MD = 0.01 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.01, 0.03) levels compared to the control group. In subgroup analyses, symbiotics showed a greater reduction in total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides.

CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis suggests that probiotic and symbiotic supplementation can reduce total cholesterol, LDL, and triglyceride levels in individuals with overweight or obesity, with a greater effect observed for symbiotic supplementation.},
}

@article {pmid42133089,
year = {2026},
author = {Detcharoen, M and Arthofer, W and Steiner, FM and Schlick-Steiner, BC},
title = {Three decades of analyzing Wolbachia bacterial endosymbionts in arthropods: Trends and gaps.},
journal = {Parasitology research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00436-026-08694-2},
pmid = {42133089},
issn = {1432-1955},
abstract = {Wolbachia are the most pervasive bacterial endosymbionts yet described, infecting half of all arthropod species. These bacteria trigger outstanding phenotypes in their hosts including cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI), which has also been used as a mechanism to control pest species. Here, we analyzed peer-reviewed articles published in the 30 years from 1995 to 2024. Our results show that most studies continue to use traditional methods such as PCR and Sanger sequencing, approaches that remain sufficient and appropriate in many cases, particularly when working with well-characterized strains or applied systems. Only a smaller proportion of studies have employed newer genome-based techniques, which are increasingly important for exploring Wolbachia diversity and uncovering novel mechanisms. Research has focused mainly on a small number of insect groups and a limited set of Wolbachia strains. In addition, most work focuses on CI, especially since the discovery of cif genes related to this trait. Although the use of Wolbachia in pest and disease control is expanding, other possible effects and interactions with different microbes remain less explored. Our analysis shows how the field has advanced through some key discoveries, while many studies continue to use established approaches and concentrate on a limited set of hosts and strains. To make further progress, we suggest using a wider range of methods and sampling a broader set of hosts, alongside integrating genetic tools with studies of natural populations. This work outlines clear areas where more research is needed and points to ways the field can develop a fuller understanding of Wolbachia and its roles in nature.},
}

@article {pmid42133476,
year = {2026},
author = {Walker, NS and Zucco, H and Basave, E and Chen, JYD and Crow, R and Chavez-Gonzalez, E},
title = {Symbiodiniaceae community structure and thermal tolerance in soft corals from captive aquarium environments.},
journal = {Integrative and comparative biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/icb/icag042},
pmid = {42133476},
issn = {1557-7023},
abstract = {Corals in aquarium systems experience environmental conditions that differ substantially from those in the wild, potentially altering their microbiomes and influencing health and stress resilience. In this study, we investigated shifts in symbiotic dinoflagellates (family Symbiodiniaceae) in common soft corals sourced from aquarium stores across Southern California. Using ITS2 amplicon sequencing, we characterized symbiont communities across coral genera and store locations. We then conducted a high heat pulse assay on a subset of samples to examine relationships between thermal tolerance, symbiont community composition, coral genus, and source location. We found that Symbiodiniaceae communities were highly similar among corals within shared aquarium store environments, rather than exhibiting genus-specific symbiont profiles, and most corals had Cladocopium-dominated symbiont communities. Thermal tolerance varied strongly among coral genera, with Briareum (green star polyps) displaying the highest heat tolerance. These findings suggest that captive aquarium environments can structure coral symbiont communities across distantly related hosts although the coral host strongly influences physiological responses to heat stress. Understanding how artificial environments shape coral holobionts is relevant not only for the aquarium trade but also for coral husbandry in research and conservation, where symbiont composition can influence survival and experimental outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid42133553,
year = {2026},
author = {Fahs, N and Axmanová, I and Svenning, JC and Těšitelová, T and Padullés Cubino, J and Biurrun, I and Campos, JA and Dengler, J and Garbolino, E and Těšitel, J},
title = {Ecological niches and biogeography of nitrogen-fixing plants in Europe.},
journal = {Plant biology (Stuttgart, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/plb.70230},
pmid = {42133553},
issn = {1438-8677},
support = {CZ.02.2.69/0.0/0.0/19_073/0016943//Operational Programme Research, Development and Education - 'Project Internal Grant Agency of Masaryk University'/ ; 24-12161S//Grantová Agentura České Republiky/ ; DNRF173//Danmarks Grundforskningsfond/ ; },
abstract = {Symbiotic nitrogen fixation by vascular plants represents a major pathway for nitrogen input in terrestrial ecosystems, fundamentally altering nutrient cycles and plant community dynamics. Nitrogen-fixing plants comprise phylogenetically and physiologically distinct lineages whose ecological niches and responses to environmental gradients remain poorly resolved at continental scales. We investigated the geographic distribution and ecological responses of major nitrogen-fixing lineages across Europe, focusing on legumes (inverted repeat lacking clade [IRLC], characterised by high symbiont regulation ability, and non-IRLC) and actinorhizal genera. We analysed 707,673 vegetation plots (1970-2021) from the European Vegetation Archive to map lineage density at 30-km resolution, assess habitat associations, model climatic drivers and evaluate distributions along environmental gradients using ecological indicator values. Non-IRLC legumes predominated in Mediterranean scrublands and dry grasslands, whereas IRLC legumes extended into northern regions and mesic grasslands. Legumes were associated with high diurnal temperature range, high summer temperatures, low summer rainfall and low soil nitrogen and water availability-patterns pronounced in non-IRLC legumes, but less distinct or even absent in IRLC legumes. Actinorhizal lineages showed disparate habitat associations and contrasting climatic responses, with temperature seasonality as the strongest predictor-positive for Alnus and Elaeagnaceae and negative for the other lineages. Our findings demonstrate fundamentally divergent ecological niches among European nitrogen-fixing lineages, reflecting distinct evolutionary histories and physiological strategies. Enhanced symbiont regulation in IRLC legumes likely facilitates persistence where the benefits of nitrogen fixation are limited. Despite sharing a common adaptive trait, nitrogen-fixing lineages have evolved different strategies to colonise various environments under diverse climatic conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42134451,
year = {2026},
author = {Vishwakarma, M and Anitha, K and Ashique, S and Mishra, N},
title = {Advances in siRNA and synbiotic therapies for colorectal cancer: a molecular and microbiota perspective.},
journal = {Drug discovery today},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {104697},
doi = {10.1016/j.drudis.2026.104697},
pmid = {42134451},
issn = {1878-5832},
abstract = {Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health challenge, with rising incidence and mortality despite advances in conventional therapies, often limited by recurrence, toxicity and drug resistance. siRNA-based therapeutics offer a precision approach by selectively silencing oncogenic and chemoresistance-related genes; but their clinical application is hindered by delivery, stability and off-target effects. Concurrently, synbiotics (prebiotics and probiotics) modulate gut microbiota, immune responses and inflammatory pathways involved in CRC progression. Integrating siRNA targeting with synbiotic-mediated microbiome modulation provides a complementary strategy addressing molecular and microenvironmental drivers of CRC. This review highlights key pathways, delivery strategies, co-therapeutic approaches and translational challenges, emphasizing the potential of combined RNAi and microbiome-based therapies for improved CRC management.},
}

@article {pmid42135688,
year = {2026},
author = {Metwally, RA and Shehata, RS and Abdelhameed, RE},
title = {Endophytic mycorrhizal fungi strengthen Lactuca sativa defense against Alternaria alternata as a sustainable biocontrol approach.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42135688},
issn = {1471-2229},
abstract = {Most terrestrial plants can establish symbiotic relationships with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, which increase the host plants' resilience to pathogens. The effect of pre-inoculation with AM fungi as a bio-agent on lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) plant resistance against Alternaria alternata RaSh3 leaf spot disease was investigated. The findings demonstrated that in A. alternata-infected plants, AM fungi could effectively colonize lettuce roots at a higher rate (100%) than in non-infected plants (91.66%). According to the disease assessment, lettuce plants pre-inoculated with AM and infected with A. alternata RaSh3 showed a 33.33 and 30.00% reduction in disease incidence and severity, respectively. During A. alternata RaSh3 infection, the primary growth responses, pigment fraction, proline, and carbohydrates of lettuce plants were reduced, accompanied by increases in oxidative stress markers [malondialdehyde (87%) and hydrogen peroxide (30.8%)]. Contrarily, AM-inoculated plants showed a significant increase in growth, photosynthetic pigments, osmolytes and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant enzymes either in A. alternata RaSh3-infected or non-infected ones. Overall, our results highlight the significance of AM fungi in alleviating infection symptoms by increasing proline (13%), flavonoids (28.3%), and phenolic compounds (44.7%). Moreover, a boost in the enzymatic status (phosphatases, antioxidants, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase) was detected in A. alternata RaSh3-infected plants due to AM inoculation, proving the essential role of its inoculation in increasing plant resistance against A. alternata RaSh3. Finally, this experiment has proved the sustainable defense strategy of mycorrhizal symbiosis as a new bio-agent for the biological control of A. alternata in lettuce plants.},
}

@article {pmid42121023,
year = {2026},
author = {Joseph, RA and Bansal, K and Keyhani, NO},
title = {Carrying the seeds of your crop: fungal genetic networks activated during colonization of the ambrosia beetle symbiotic organ.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12864-026-12931-4},
pmid = {42121023},
issn = {1471-2164},
support = {IOS-2418026//National Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Myco-cultivation by ambrosia beetles involves unique symbiotic partnerships with select fungi. These beetles grow and tend their fungal gardens as food for larvae and adults. This close association has led to the evolution of specialized structures, termed mycangia, on or within the beetle to house fungal cells as "seeds" for establishing and maintaining their gardens. However, little is known concerning fungal gene networks involved in mediating the symbiotic colonization of the mycangia of their host beetles. Here, we report on global gene expression changes that occur in the fungus during mycangial colonization of the Xyleborus affinis ambrosia beetle mycangia by its the partner fungus, Harringtonia lauricola, which, while beneficial to the beetle, is the causative agent of the devastating laurel wilt disease in plant hosts.

RESULTS: A temporal map, ranging from 1 h to 72 h of H. lauricola gene expression during colonization of X. affinis mycangia was constructed and compared to fungal cells grown in vitro (PDB) and to a previous dataset of H. lauricola isolated from infected plants. These data revealed a rapid adaptation (6-12 h) of fungal cells to the mycangial environment with high expression of genes involved in cell wall remodeling, some of which were shared with H. lauricola-plant infection. Differential expression of genes involved in metabolism, effectors, and pathogen-host interactions (PHI) were noted, providing clues to the nutritional landscape within mycangia as well as discrete mechanisms employed by the fungus to interact with its ambrosia beetle host. Consistent with a dimorphic shift, but also a general suppression of growth, genes involved in hyphal and filamentous growth, and conidiation, showed significantly lower expression in the mycangial environment as compared to in vitro media conditions. Intriguingly, GO terms involved in the RNAi pathway were enriched in upregulated datasets, suggesting a novel role for miRNAs in ambrosia symbioses.

CONCLUSIONS: Our data indicate that the transition to the mycangial environment begins almost immediately post-colonization, with gene expression changes noted as early as 1 h, adaptation by 6 h, and maintenance thereafter. Specific metabolic gene networks were identified that suggest nutrient exchange and facilitation of fungal adaptation to the ambrosia beetle mycangia. While aspects of cell wall remodeling appear conserved between fungal colonization of the beetle mycangia and infection of plants, distinct sets of fungal genes involved in nutrient assimilation (transport and metabolism), effector production, suppression of growth, transcription factors, and PHIs are expressed during mutualism. These data open new avenues for functional analysis of genes that define symbiotic associations in context dependent host-microbe interactions that results in disparate, i.e., parasitic vs. mutualistic, outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid42121845,
year = {2026},
author = {Kalyuzhny, AE},
title = {Spatial Biology Evolution: Past, Present and Future of Mapping Life in Context.},
journal = {Cells},
volume = {15},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cells15090743},
pmid = {42121845},
issn = {2073-4409},
mesh = {Humans ; Proteomics/methods ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The life sciences are currently undergoing a serious transition from the reductive biochemical analysis of dissociated tissues to non-destructive "spatial forensics". In addition to discovering new molecules, we are moving towards finding out their precise tissue localization and performing in situ interrogation to uncover a biological logic within preserved cellular "neighborhoods". Our perspective is focused on exploring the spatial imperative, including the structural logic and "neighborhood effects" of the tissue microenvironment, which is a prerequisite to understanding cellular function in normal and in pathological conditions. Beginning with a historical foundation of the origins of histochemistry, dating back to the 19th century with pioneer botanist François-Vincent Raspail, we emphasize the technological metamorphosis, transitioning from classical immunohistochemistry to modern multi- and high-plex spatial multi-omics. A critical evaluation of the current operational landscape has been made, addressing the engineering strategies behind multiplexed immunofluorescence (mIF), the challenges of experimental design in spatial transcriptomics, and the functional symbiosis between targeted and unbiased spatial proteomics. There are many layers of genomic and proteomic information we have to consider in order to unravel the mechanisms underlying body function. If we learn how to combine all this information together, we will be able to better understand how cells communicate with each other and what disrupts their communication, leading to cancer and many other pathologies. It is obvious that by implementing spatial biology tools, it becomes possible to develop new medicines and treat diseases in the most efficient ways. At the same time, we realize that there is an urgent need to learn how to put data pieces together so that they blend seamlessly into a meaningful output, further transitioning spatial biology over time into a routine tool to cure for both common and rare diseases and improve our lives and health.},
}

Humans
Proteomics/methods
Animals

@article {pmid42122864,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, S and Jiang, Y and Fang, J and Wang, T},
title = {Evolutionary Repurposing of Cytokinin Signaling in Plant Development and Symbiosis.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15091370},
pmid = {42122864},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {LY22C020004//Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province/ ; 32441048//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024SSYS0103//Pioneer" and "Leading Goose" R&D Program of Zhejiang/ ; },
abstract = {Cytokinin (CK) is a central regulator of plant development, yet its roles cannot be understood fully without considering how CK signaling was assembled during evolution and redeployed in different physiological contexts. In this review, we examine how prokaryotic two-component modules were elaborated into the land-plant CK system and how this system now integrates biosynthesis, transport, receptor selectivity, and feedback control to shape developmental and symbiotic outcomes. We argue that three recurring interpretive dimensions are especially useful for organizing current evidence: compartmentalized CK pools, context-dependent decoding of local CK availability, and the coupling of local CK responses to whole-plant nutrient status. These dimensions help organize current observations on why CK effects in arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) are often conditional and readout-dependent, whereas evidence from legume-rhizobium symbiosis supports a more direct role for CK in cortical competence, nodule organogenesis, and autoregulation of nodulation. Rather than treating CK as a generic positive regulator of symbiosis, we propose that it functions as a spatially partitioned and nutritionally gated integrator whose outputs depend on cell type, developmental stage, transport route, and resource context. We conclude by highlighting key mechanistic gaps-particularly in transporter-resolved CK partitioning and systemic integration-and by outlining experimentally testable priorities for translating CK biology into crop improvement.},
}

@article {pmid42122908,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, Q and Wu, Z and Xu, R and Zhang, J and Deng, M and Wang, T and Zhang, Q and Li, P and Yan, Z},
title = {Transcriptomic Comparison of Soybean Roots Inoculated with Different Rhizobium Strains During Early Symbiosis.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15091417},
pmid = {42122908},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {No.2023C4S02001//The Key Scientific Research Projects of Xianghu Laboratory/ ; 2024SSYS0103//"Pioneer"and"Leading Goose" R&D Program of Zhejiang/ ; 2023R01009//Innovation Team Basic Research Project of Zhejiang/ ; },
abstract = {The symbiotic relationship between soybean and rhizobia facilitates nodulation and nitrogen fixation, providing a sustainable nutrient supply for increasing crop yields and reducing chemical fertilizer use. However, comparative studies on the conservation and strain-specificity of host gene expression regulated by different rhizobial strains remain limited. Here, we performed a comparative analysis between the previously isolated strain, Bradyrhizobium ottawaense Bott 59, and the model strain, Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA 110. Symbiotic phenotypes were evaluated after inoculation, and a root transcriptomic analysis was conducted at 3 dpi to assess early molecular responses. At 21 dpi, Bott 59-inoculated plants outperformed plants inoculated with USDA 110 in nodule number, nitrogenase activity, and biomass. Transcriptomic analysis revealed conserved host responses to both rhizobial strains, including NIN-mediated signaling, AON signaling, and the biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids and brassinosteroids. Further analysis revealed that Bott 59 specifically induced the expression of genes involved in isoflavonoid and flavonoid biosynthesis, including those encoding I2H, and HI4OMT. Moreover, Bott 59 triggered more pronounced transcriptional reprogramming in auxin, cytokinin, and jasmonic acid signaling pathways, along with differential expression of a broader set of transcription factor genes. Collectively, this study systematically unravels the conserved and strain-specific transcriptional regulatory events underlying host-rhizobium interactions. Our findings provide valuable theoretical insights and transcriptomic resources for further dissecting the molecular mechanisms of symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF), as well as for the targeted genetic improvement of crop nodulation and nitrogen fixation efficiency.},
}

@article {pmid42123484,
year = {2026},
author = {Ahmad, A and Ahmed, MM and Akhtar, A and Liu, W and Yang, R and Sun, X and Wang, X and Bibi, S and Khan, MB and Chen, S},
title = {Unlocking Grass Stress Resistance: Fungal Endophyte-Mediated Pathogen Recognition and RNA Regulation.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27093899},
pmid = {42123484},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {32260356//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; (Outstanding Youth Project, Grant No. 2025DB003)//Corps Science and Technology Program/ ; (TDZKPY202607)//Tarim University of Agricultural Reclamation/ ; },
mesh = {*Endophytes/physiology ; *Stress, Physiological ; *Poaceae/microbiology/genetics/physiology ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Symbiosis ; *Fungi/physiology ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Disease Resistance ; Plant Diseases/microbiology/genetics ; },
abstract = {Fungal endophytes are symbiotic microorganisms that establish strong relationships inside plant tissues, providing potential advantages, especially in grasses, by enhancing tolerance to both abiotic and biotic stresses. This review investigates the molecular mechanisms through which fungal endophytes mediate stress tolerance, targeting host-pathogen interactions. By modulating pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), and effector proteins, fungal endophytes may contribute to priming the plant's immune system, enhancing its resistance to pathogen invasion. Moreover, endophyte colonization regulates core processes such as osmotic regulation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification, and secondary metabolite biosynthesis that enable plants to tolerate environmental stresses like drought, heat, and salinity. The review highlights the impact of endophytes on immune priming, systemic acquired resistance (SAR), and the regulation of non-coding RNAs that regulate host gene networks associated with stress tolerance. Furthermore, the integration of advanced multi-omics techniques genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and fluxomics has revealed emerging insights into the genetic and metabolic pathways driving these symbiotic associations. However, grass-specific molecular datasets remain limited, and the consistency of endophyte-mediated tolerance across host species and environmental conditions is not yet fully resolved. Fungal endophytes increase grass stress resilience through coordinated pathogen recognition, RNA regulation, and metabolic reprogramming while AI-assisted multi-omics approaches are emerging as tools for identifying candidate regulatory networks, although empirical validation in grass-endophyte systems remains limited. Together, these advances highlight the potential for climate-smart and sustainable crop improvement. Future research integrating functional genomics, field validation, and biosafety assessment will be essential for translating endophyte-based strategies into reliable agricultural applications.},
}

*Endophytes/physiology
*Stress, Physiological
*Poaceae/microbiology/genetics/physiology
*Host-Pathogen Interactions
Symbiosis
*Fungi/physiology
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Disease Resistance
Plant Diseases/microbiology/genetics

@article {pmid42123638,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiménez-Florido, P and Planelló, R and Buckley, D and Bella, JL},
title = {Wolbachia Induces Epigenetic and Transcriptional Modifications in the Orthopteran Chorthippus parallelus (Acrididae: Gomphocerinae).},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27094060},
pmid = {42123638},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {PID2019-104952GBI00//Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (MINECO)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Wolbachia/physiology ; *Epigenesis, Genetic ; DNA Methylation ; Female ; Male ; Symbiosis ; *Orthoptera/microbiology/genetics ; *Transcription, Genetic ; Gonads/metabolism/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Wolbachia is an obligate endosymbiotic alphaproteobacterium that is widely distributed among insects. It also infects the European orthopteran Chorthippus parallelus parallelus (Cpp). In this subspecies, Wolbachia induces a reproductive barrier through uni- and bidirectional cytoplasmic incompatibilities. Recently, we found that it also modifies the expression of genes related to essential physiological pathways in Cpp. Here, we have analysed the influence of Wolbachia infection on the epigenetic profiles in Cpp gonads of infected and uninfected males and females, since they constitute Wolbachia's main target. We characterised de novo nine genes related to epigenetic mechanisms and their transcriptional activity, together with global DNA methylation levels. The results indicate that Wolbachia influences the epigenetic mechanisms in Cpp mainly in females, inducing the expression of genes related to histone deacetylation and reducing the global DNA methylation percentage. This study provides the first evidence of Wolbachia's ability to alter epigenetic processes in Cpp, increasing our understanding of this symbiotic relationship, with potential implications for the induced reproductive isolation within and between subspecies of C. parallelus. It also offers new insights into the molecular basis of host-symbiont biology in a group for which this information is rather scarce.},
}

Animals
*Wolbachia/physiology
*Epigenesis, Genetic
DNA Methylation
Female
Male
Symbiosis
*Orthoptera/microbiology/genetics
*Transcription, Genetic
Gonads/metabolism/microbiology

@article {pmid42126686,
year = {2026},
author = {Mis, B and Kuşcu, MC and Eltem, R},
title = {Investigation of symbiotic-like interactions between Pseudomonas chlororaphis and non-pathogenic Fusarium sp. for enhanced biopreparation potential.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42126686},
issn = {1874-9356},
abstract = {The rhizosphere layer of the soil is a complex environment where various organisms interact with each other. Understanding this complex structure and utilising its interactions in industry can provide significant benefits in many areas, particularly in sustainable agriculture. In this study, the symbiotic effects between plant growth-promoting (PGP) Pseudomonas chlororaphis and non-pathogenic Fusarium sp. were examined, and symbiotic-like culture experiments were conducted for potential biopreparation production. Initially, the PGP properties of the interacting species were qualitatively screened, and their non-pathogenicity was confirmed in vitro. Then, symbiotic-like culture trials were performed with the selected species. Subsequently, the quantitative PGP properties of these species, both individually and in symbiotic-like culture, were determined. The symbiotic-like culture significantly enhanced phosphate solubilization and IAA production efficiency by approximately 70%. Moreover, the antifungal effects of all symbiotic-like cultures increased and remained effective for 15 days. This study demonstrates the potential of harnessing microbial interactions in the rhizosphere to develop biopreparations with enhanced plant growth-promoting and antifungal properties. Based on the results, important steps have been taken by clarifying the naturally occurring symbiosis in the rhizosphere of soil and paving the way to develop biopreparations with higher efficiency by leveraging interactions between microorganisms.},
}

@article {pmid42127819,
year = {2026},
author = {Velásquez, AC},
title = {Actin filaments form(in) root hairs to welcome rhizobia.},
journal = {Cell host & microbe},
volume = {34},
number = {5},
pages = {814-816},
doi = {10.1016/j.chom.2026.04.007},
pmid = {42127819},
issn = {1934-6069},
mesh = {*Symbiosis ; *Actin Cytoskeleton/metabolism ; *Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism ; *Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Rhizobium/physiology ; Actins/metabolism ; Plant Root Nodulation ; },
abstract = {Dramatic cytoskeleton modifications are involved in establishing mutualistic bacterial and fungal associations with plants, as new specialized symbiotic structures are formed. A recent study in Science[1] explores actin remodeling during the inception of these interactions, potentially creating opportunities to increase mycorrhizal and nodulation efficiency and reduce our need for fertilizers.},
}

*Symbiosis
*Actin Cytoskeleton/metabolism
*Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism
*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Rhizobium/physiology
Actins/metabolism
Plant Root Nodulation

@article {pmid42128241,
year = {2026},
author = {Kang, K and Zhang, Y and Yang, X and Liu, X and Feng, J and Xie, S and Lv, J},
title = {How the ammonium-to-nitrate ratio shaped system performance: The role of keystone taxa and network stability in microalgal-bacterial symbiotic system.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134850},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134850},
pmid = {42128241},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The microalgal-bacterial symbiotic system (MBSS) represents a promising sustainable technology for wastewater treatment, and its performance is tightly linked to operational parameters. Nevertheless, the systematic understanding of how the ammonium-to-nitrate ratio drives MBSS performance remains largely insufficient. Here MBSS was operated under a constant total nitrogen concentration with varying ammonium-to-nitrate ratios (4: 0, 3: 1, 2: 2, 1: 3, 0: 4). By integrating physicochemical analysis, amplicon sequencing, nitrogen cycling functional prediction, and multivariate statistics, it was found that the ammonium-to-nitrate ratio significantly regulated MBSS performance and bacterial community dynamics. Specifically, high-ammonium conditions (4: 0 ratio) promoted microalgal growth, total phosphorus (TP) removal, and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal, whereas high-nitrate conditions (0: 4 ratio) enhanced total inorganic nitrogen (TIN) removal. Functional prediction revealed distinct nitrogen metabolic pathways under different conditions. Under high-ammonium conditions, bacteria preferentially employed nitrogen-removal pathways (e.g., amoA → hao → narB → nirS → norB → nosZ) that operated in concert with microalgae. Conversely, under high-nitrate conditions, bacteria competed with microalgae for nitrogen, employing pathways such as napA/nasA → nirK → norB. Co-occurrence network analysis indicated that high-ammonium conditions promoted a tightly connected, stable community. Furthermore, five keystone taxa (Pseudoxanthomonas, Cloacibacterium, Dyella, Paraburkholderia, and Pandoraea) were identified, collectively explaining 74.2% of system performance variation. Comprehensive assessment via microalgal-bacterial multifunctionality index, developed by combining key data on pollutant removal efficiency and bacterial community characteristics, confirmed that MBSS achieved optimal overall performance when ammonium served as the sole nitrogen source. This work clarified the regulatory mechanism of the ammonium-to-nitrate ratio in MBSS, providing a theoretical basis for optimizing nitrogen-containing wastewater treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42115921,
year = {2026},
author = {Bulfoni, M and De Martino, M and Gualandi, N and Marzinotto, S and Vesca, G and Krpan, B and Marcon, B and Bertoni, M and Tascini, C and Pipan, C and Curcio, F},
title = {Gut microbiota profiling of the population residing in Friuli-Venezia Giulia through next-generation sequencing.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-05117-1},
pmid = {42115921},
issn = {1471-2180},
abstract = {The gut microbiota is an ecological community of symbiotic and commensal microorganisms that play crucial roles in nutrient metabolism, maintaining the structural integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier, immunomodulation, and pathogen protection. The composition of the gut microbiota varies with age, ethnicity, lifestyle, and dietary habits. Given the microbiota's growing role as a modulator of various physiological and pathological conditions, our study aimed to investigate the genetic profile of the microbiome individuals residing in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. We analyzed fecal swab samples from 109 individuals belonging to a general population cohort. The hypervariable V3-V4 regions of bacterial 16 S rRNA were analyzed using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) on the MiSeq system (Illumina). The relative abundance of phyla, classes, orders, families, and species was defined using the BaseSpace 16s metagenomics app (Illumina). Firmicutes was the most represented phylum (51.1%), followed by Bacteroidetes (38.3%) and Actinobacteria (3%). At the class level, Clostridia (45.2%) and Bacteroidia (37.7%) were predominant, while Clostridiales (46.9%), Bacteroidales (26.6%), and Anaeroplasmatales (12.6%) were notable orders. Lachnospiraceae (21.9%) and Ruminococcaceae (16.2%) were the most frequent families, with Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (10.3%), Bacteroides vulgatus (4.6%), and Bacteroides dorei (3.5%) being prominent species. Each participant's taxa were analyzed to identify genera associated with alterations in gut microbial composition. Significant associations emerged between specific taxa of microorganisms and age, gender, anti-inflammatory drugs, tobacco consumption, and allergies. This study provides valuable insights into gut microbiota composition in a population-based cohort. The characterization of the microbiota in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia (FVG) region lays the foundation for future research into regional variations in microbiota composition and its impact on health.},
}

@article {pmid42116760,
year = {2026},
author = {Abdrabo, KAE and Wu, YT and Huang, YT},
title = {Metabolic and Elemental Stoichiometric Analyses in Ambrosia Fungi Reveal Lineage-Specific Strategies in Symbiotic Associations.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {28},
number = {5},
pages = {e70323},
doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.70323},
pmid = {42116760},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {110-2621-B-037-002-MY3//National Science and Technology Council/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis ; Animals ; Phylogeny ; Nitrogen/metabolism ; *Ascomycota/metabolism/genetics/classification/physiology ; Carbon/metabolism ; *Coleoptera/microbiology/physiology ; Amino Acids/biosynthesis ; Uric Acid/metabolism ; },
abstract = {The ambrosia fungus-beetle symbiosis is an obligate nutritional association, yet the specific metabolic contributions of fungal partners to beetle nutrition remain incompletely characterised. We compared several ambrosia fungal species with closely related non-ambrosia species to investigate their metabolic capabilities, carbon-nitrogen stoichiometry and uric acid catabolism. Ambrosia fungi displayed distinct but lineage-specific metabolic features that were largely influenced by phylogeny. Although both groups shared overarching metabolic similarities, ambrosia fungi such as Ambrosiella roeperi (Ceratocystidaceae) and Irpex subulatus (Irpicaceae) exhibited enriched amino acid biosynthesis pathways, especially for L-histidine and L-phenylalanine. Formaldehyde assimilation pathway was detected in ambrosia fungi, specifically A. roeperi (Ceratocystidaceae) and Harringtonia lauricola (Ophiostomataceae), reflecting strategies for coping with volatile environments of stressed host trees. Elemental stoichiometry revealed elevated C:N ratios in ambrosia fungi, particularly A. roeperi and I. subulatus, despite no significant differences in carbon or nitrogen when assessed independently. However, nitrogen content was not significantly enhanced, suggesting that nitrogen provisioning may not be conserved as an adaptive trait in ambrosia symbiosis. Similarly, fungal growth on uric acid as the sole nitrogen source did not differ between groups, indicating that nitrogen provisioning through recycling of beetle wastes may reflect lineage-specific patterns rather than a convergent trait across ambrosia fungi.},
}

*Symbiosis
Animals
Phylogeny
Nitrogen/metabolism
*Ascomycota/metabolism/genetics/classification/physiology
Carbon/metabolism
*Coleoptera/microbiology/physiology
Amino Acids/biosynthesis
Uric Acid/metabolism

@article {pmid42119384,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, Y and Tian, K and Hao, P and Gu, J and Xie, L and Zhou, D and Huo, H},
title = {Insect-mediated polystyrene (PS) degradation: Mechanisms, efficiency, ecological impacts, and application prospects.},
journal = {Ecotoxicology and environmental safety},
volume = {318},
number = {},
pages = {120243},
doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2026.120243},
pmid = {42119384},
issn = {1090-2414},
abstract = {Plastic pollution is a critical global issue. Polystyrene (PS) is highly stable and degrades slowly, causing massive accumulation in ecosystems and severe threats to soil, marine life, and human health. Recent studies have demonstrated that the synergy between insects and their gut microbiota can achieve PS biodegradation, offering a novel green remediation approach. This paper systematically reviews insect species capable of PS degradation and the core roles of gut microbiota and their enzyme systems. It elaborates the multi-stage mechanisms of physical activation, enzymatic oxidation, depolymerization-mineralization, and bioassimilation, and analyzes influencing factors such as PS properties and insect developmental stage, along with the ecotoxicological effects and application potential of this process. Evidence confirms that insects such as Tenebrio molitor, Zophobas atratus, and Galleria mellonella oxidize and metabolize PS via symbiosis with gut microbes, leading to surface damage, molecular weight reduction, and oxygen incorporation. Part of the PS carbon is mineralized to CO2 or assimilated into biomass. However, current research exhibits marked methodological heterogeneity, with studies differing in PS substrate forms, experimental designs, and detection endpoints, hindering cross‑study comparison of degradation efficiency. Furthermore, most studies lack standardized validation such as isotope tracing, undermining the reliability and comparability of results. Unified experimental and reporting standards, along with wider adoption of validated methods, are urgently needed to underpin future research and application.},
}

@article {pmid42120438,
year = {2026},
author = {Hendrick, GC and Nicholson, MD and Brown, AL and Sikkel, PC},
title = {Rapid reduction in biodiversity and abundance of Caribbean coral reef fishes at cleaning stations following removal of coral-dwelling cleaner gobies.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-51656-y},
pmid = {42120438},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {Understanding the dynamics of species distribution and abundance, as well as interactions with the biotic environment, is a fundamental goal of ecology. While factors such as food availability, predation, mating, and habitat use have been extensively studied, symbioses, such as parasitism and mutualism, are also crucial drivers of community structure and ecosystem function. A prominent example of this in coral reef environments is cleaning symbiosis, where small fishes or shrimps remove parasites and tissue from larger fishes (clients). In the tropical Atlantic, where Elacatinus cleaner gobies are the dominant cleaner fish, large-scale empirical data on their effects on the distribution, abundance, and diversity of clients are lacking. Thus, how Elacatinus cleaner gobies affect coral reef community structure remains unresolved. This study investigated the impact of cleaner gobies (Elacatinus evelynae) on the spatiotemporal dynamics of mobile clients. We show that biodiversity at locations where cleaner gobies had been experimentally removed was reduced by 23%. Additionally, cleaning stations with cleaner gobies had 1.85 times the number of visits by client fish than cleaning stations where the goby was removed (n = 3,673), and that this effect was apparent within only 10 days. Following cleaner goby removal, client fish visited goby-present cleaning stations more than removal stations, with visitation rates 4.04, 1.85, and 1.97 times higher in Surveys 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Furthermore, the proportion of cleaning stations visited by clients, including goby-present stations, shifted shortly after goby removals. These findings show that cleaner gobies can be important contributors to coral reef community structure by altering activity and distribution of other fishes.},
}

@article {pmid42120815,
year = {2026},
author = {Rammitsu, K and Ikeyama, Y and Chamara, RMSR and Watanabe, K and Tetsuka, K and Yukawa, T and Ogiso-Tanaka, E and Ogura-Tsujita, Y},
title = {Differences in orchid mycorrhizal diversity between terrestrial and epiphytic habitats on Yakushima Island, Japan.},
journal = {Journal of plant research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42120815},
issn = {1618-0860},
support = {21K06306//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 24K09594//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 24K17907//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 23K05914//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; },
abstract = {Epiphytic orchids account for 68% of vascular epiphytes and 69% of orchid species, demonstrating the importance of epiphytism to the diversification of the Orchidaceae. All orchids require mycorrhizal associations with specific fungi at the earliest stages of germination and development, and these symbioses may have played crucial roles in their adaptation to, and diversification within, canopy habitats. We present the first comprehensive comparison of fungal communities, encompassing both epiphytic and terrestrial orchids as well as their habitat substrates (bark and soil) on Yakushima Island, Japan. We analyzed mycorrhizal communities associated with 29 orchid species, representing eight tribes in four subfamilies, using both Sanger and high-throughput sequencing (HTS) methods, and also characterized fungal communities in the substrates using HTS. Our results reveal that epiphytic and terrestrial orchids have differing mycorrhizal communities and the fungal composition of their habitat substrates also differs. Although overall fungal richness was lower in epiphytic than in terrestrial substrates, the diversity of fungi in the rhizoctonia, including members of Tulasnellaceae, Ceratobasidiaceae, and Serendipitaceae, was similarly high for both habitat types. Furthermore, some rhizoctonia fungi were shared between orchid life forms and exhibited symbiotic compatibility across habitats in in vitro culture. Although rhizoctonia communities differed between habitat substrates, comparable diversity and the presence of shared taxa across habitats imply that these fungi may have reduced barriers to canopy colonization and contribute to the successful establishment and diversification of epiphytic orchids.},
}

@article {pmid42108639,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Y and Feng, W and Liu, X and Feng, X and Hao, S and Lian, L and Gao, L and Shao, Y and Chen, H and Chen, Z and Yuan, J and Qin, L and Ma, Y and Li, X and Li, X and Wang, X},
title = {Integrative genomic and transcriptomic analyses characterize the regulatory landscape of symbiotic nitrogen fixation in the soybean diversity panel.},
journal = {Journal of integrative plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jipb.70284},
pmid = {42108639},
issn = {1744-7909},
abstract = {Symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) is essential for legume productivity and sustainable agriculture, yet the genetic and regulatory bases of its natural variation remain incompletely understood. Here, we implemented an integrative multi-omics framework to dissect SNF architecture in a diversity panel of 360 soybean accessions encompassing both wild and cultivated lineages. SNF-related traits exhibited extensive variation and strong environmental sensitivity. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) detected only modest-effect loci, consistent with a polygenic and context-dependent genetic architecture. To resolve regulatory mechanisms underlying this complexity, we analyzed population-scale mature nodule transcriptomes using independent component analysis (ICA), identifying 136 expression modules, of which 15 were significantly associated with SNF traits and enriched for circadian rhythm, lipid metabolism, and defense response pathways. Transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS) identified 1,453,806, and 178 significant gene-trait associations for nitrogen fixation per plant (NFP), nodule weight (NW), and nitrogen fixation efficiency (NFE), respectively. Among these, 185 transcription factors were identified, 39% overlapping selective sweeps, suggesting evolutionary selection on transcriptional regulation. Expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) mapping further uncovered 4,654 significant regulatory variants (1,241 cis-, 2,505 trans-, and 908 mixed), including 38 trans-regulatory hotspots collectively influencing ~2,400 genes, nearly half of which are located in domestication-diverged genome regions. Functional validation confirmed that the circadian regulator GmLHY acts as a negative modulator of nodulation, while Dt2, a developmental transcription factor, exerts pleiotropic effects on nodule biomass and fixation efficiency. To facilitate community access, we developed SoySNFdb, an open database integrating all information for SNF in soybean, featuring AI-assisted querying for interactive exploration of regulatory networks. Together, our results suggest that, within this population and experimental context, natural diversity in SNF is associated with regulatory and expression-level variation rather than major-effect coding variants. This integrative framework and accompanying resources establish a basis for system-level dissection and predictive improvement of nitrogen fixation efficiency in legumes.},
}

@article {pmid42108676,
year = {2026},
author = {de la Fuente, D and Catalano, MI and Carpane, P and Toledo, AV and Brentassi, ME},
title = {Obligate endosymbionts as promising targets for planthopper pest control: Exploring their effect on probing behavior.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70897},
pmid = {42108676},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//Agencia Nacional de Promoción de la Investigación, el Desarrollo Tecnológico y la Innovación/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Planthoppers (Hemiptera: Delphacidae) are sap-sucking insects that have emerged as major pests of economically important agricultural crops worldwide. These insects establish an obligate mutualistic relationship with fungal endosymbionts (yeast-like symbionts, YLS) which play a key role in their nutrition and physiology. Despite this, the influence of YLS on host probing behavior remains poorly understood. In this study, we experimentally reduced YLS abundance in the maize planthopper Delphacodes kuscheli, the main vector of Mal de Río Cuarto virus in the Neotropical region, by exposing host plants to systemic fungicides. We then evaluated the effects of YLS depletion on female probing behavior using the electrical penetration graph technique.

RESULTS: Sub-symbiotic females showed longer non-probing periods (mean values, 95% CI 70.80 min, 46.3-108) than control females (19.59 min, 12.8-30). They also required more probes and more time to reach the phloem and allocated less time to phloem sap ingestion (113.82 min, 84.9-153) than control females (180.96 min, 136.4-240). Additionally, sub-symbiotic females exhibited a higher proportion of probing time spent in pathway activities (32.52%, 26.30-39.42) than control females (22.38%, 17.13-28.70).

CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that nutritional symbionts may play an overlooked role in shaping probing behavior in D. kuscheli females. Our results highlight the ecological significance of YLS in these phloem-feeding insects and provide novel insights into symbiont-vector-plant interactions. The ability to alter probing behavior through reduction of obligate mutualistic symbionts in an agricultural pest opens new avenues for the development of integrated pest management strategies. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid42111288,
year = {2026},
author = {Sanches, P and Mescher, MC and De Moraes, CM},
title = {Endosymbionts affect plant virus transmission by winged and wingless aphids.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag096},
pmid = {42111288},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Vector-borne pathogens frequently modify host-vector interactions, and their influence can be modulated by other microbial symbionts. We recently documented endosymbiont effects on aphid traits involved in plant virus transmission, showing that facultative endobacteria-particularly Hamiltonella defensa-enhanced transmission of pea enation mosaic virus. Here, we examine transmission steps and associated molecular signatures in winged and wingless aphid morphs. Consistent with our previous findings, we observed enhanced pea enation mosaic virus transmission, as well as elevated viral titer in wingless aphids harboring H. defensa. However, winged aphids with this endosymbiont displayed similar effects on virus titer but not transmission. Furthermore, whereas wingless aphids exhibited higher transmission than winged aphids when H. defensa was present, this pattern was reversed for aphids harboring only the obligate endosymbiont Buchnera aphidicola; in parallel, we observed no differences between morphs of lines harboring other facultative endosymbionts. Subsequent experiments comparing lines harboring H. defensa versus the obligate symbiont alone revealed divergent effects on winged and wingless morphs on (i) virus inoculation efficiency (i.e., delivery of acquired virus; H. defensa), (ii) key salivary proteins (carbonic anhydrases, CAs; both lines), and (iii) plant defense-related marker transcripts (PR-1, salicylic acid pathway; LOX, jasmonic acid pathway; both lines). The correspondence of these patterns to the observed transmission effects suggests that endosymbiont-mediated effects on transmission may reflect changes in salivary secretions and related feeding traits. Our findings highlight the role of vector endosymbionts in disease transmission and provide insights into candidate processes by which they may influence virus-vector-host interactions.},
}

@article {pmid42111295,
year = {2026},
author = {Nielsen, DA and Heraud, P and Haydon, TD and Petrou, K},
title = {Heat stress reproportions distinct metabolic sub-populations of coral-algal endosymbionts.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag099},
pmid = {42111295},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Increasing occurrences of mass heat-induced coral bleaching around the globe have propelled research effort into enhancing coral resilience. Yet, significant progress in this space is hampered by an incomplete understanding of the inter-cellular processes sustaining the delicate, animal-algal symbiosis that underlie coral health. To elucidate links between changes in the symbiotic algal physiology and bleaching, we measured metabolic fingerprints of >1500 endosymbiotic algal cells from four coral species exposed to control and heat-stress conditions. We detected four co-occurring endosymbiont metabolomes based on spectral features, finding strong parallels across species. Clear temporal shifts in the dominance of each metabolome helped link metabolic profiles to cellular physiological states within the coral colony endosymbiotic landscape. We found two profiles common to healthy endosymbionts and two profiles reflective of physiological stress. In the absence of heat-stress, the most prevalent metabolic profiles were differentiated by high protein, high nucleic acid content and low carbon (lipid and/or carbohydrate) content. Whereas during late-stage bleaching, the dominant metabolic profiles exhibited comparatively low protein, but high carbon content. This work has uncovered the existence of endosymbiont metabolic sub-populations within coral colonies and shown their dynamic yet predictable reproportioning during heat stress conditions across different coral species. In identifying a physiological cascade of single-cell metabolomes in response to heat stress, this research highlights promising metabolic markers for detecting the onset of heat stress and dysbiosis within individual endosymbiotic coral cells.},
}

@article {pmid42111719,
year = {2026},
author = {Devabhakthini, N and Eichler-Löbermann, B and Haghi, R and Willner, E and Dehmer, KJ and Kavka, M},
title = {Effect of phosphorus deficiency on biomass and root system architecture in diverse Medicago accessions.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1812278},
pmid = {42111719},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Phosphorus (P) is essential for legume growth and symbiotic nitrogen fixation, yet its low availability in many soils frequently constrains plant productivity.

METHODS: To evaluate phenotypic and genotypic variation in P efficiency, 200 genetically diverse accessions of the Medicago sativa complex were assessed under high and low P conditions in a greenhouse experiment, followed by detailed root system architecture (RSA) analysis in a subset of 20 accessions using a rhizotron system.

RESULTS: Significant intraspecific variation was observed for shoot and root dry matter, root-to-shoot ratio, shoot P content, and P utilisation efficiency (PUE). Across the full panel of 200 accessions, shoot and root dry matter decreased by 24% and 23% respectively under low P, and in the subset of 20 accessions PUE increased by 38% under low P. Genome-wide association studies identified candidate genes associated with plant height and biomass related traits under high and low P conditions including genes involved in cell-wall modification, hormonal regulation, and growth-related stress responses. Rhizotron analyses revealed RSA plasticity, with increased specific root length and specific convex hull area under low P, reflecting morphological adjustments that enhance soil exploration.

DISCUSSION: Accessions that combined stable biomass production, high PUE, and adaptive RSA features under low P represent valuable genetic resources for breeding nutrient-efficient alfalfa cultivars suitable for low-input agricultural systems.},
}

@article {pmid42112453,
year = {2025},
author = {Usman, M and Ashebir, S and Okey-Mbata, C and Yun, Y and Kim, S},
title = {Neuroengineering Frontiers: A Selective Review of Neural Interfaces, Brain-Machine Interactions, and Artificial Intelligence in Neurodegenerative Diseases.},
journal = {Applied sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {21},
pages = {},
pmid = {42112453},
issn = {2076-3417},
abstract = {Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), present a growing public health challenge globally. Recent advancements in neurotechnology and neuroengineering have significantly enhanced brain-computer interfaces, artificial intelligence, and organoid technologies, making them pivotal instruments for diagnosis, monitoring, disease modeling, treatment development, and rehabilitation of various diseases. Nonetheless, the majority of neural interface platforms focus on unidirectional control paradigms, neglecting the need for co-adaptive systems where both the human user and the interface continually learn and adapt. This selected review consolidates information from neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and organoid engineering to identify the conceptual underpinnings of co-adaptive and symbiotic human-machine interaction. We emphasize significant shortcomings in the advancement of long-term AI-facilitated co-adaptation, which permits individualized diagnostics and progression tracking in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. We concentrate on incorporating deep learning for adaptive decoding, reinforcement learning for bidirectional feedback, and hybrid organoid-brain-computer interface platforms to mimic disease dynamics and expedite therapy discoveries. This study outlines the trends and limitations of the topics at hand, proposing a research framework for next-generation AI-enhanced neural interfaces targeting neurodegenerative diseases and neurological disorders that are both technologically sophisticated and clinically viable, while adhering to ethical standards.},
}

@article {pmid42112817,
year = {2026},
author = {Gil-Polo, A and Bledsoe, RB and Calvert, M and Cherry, L and Epstein, B and Fudge, R and Harris, J and Tiffin, P and Burghardt, LT},
title = {Rhizobia independently adapt to soil and legume host environments, but soil conditions influence the abundance of high-quality partners.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0379325},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.03793-25},
pmid = {42112817},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Rhizobia live as free-living microorganisms in the soil and in association with legume hosts. Both environments exert selective pressures on rhizobia, influencing the reproductive success of individual strains (e.g., fitness). The soil, a heterogeneous and fluctuating environment, is often overlooked, and little is known about whether selection in the soil influences the outcomes of the rhizobium-legume mutualism. We exposed a mixture of 68 Sinorhizobium meliloti strains to soil-mediated selection using eight different treatments (temperature, osmotic, and texture perturbations) and host-mediated selection with two Medicago species as hosts. We found that cold (4°C) and warm (32°C) temperatures, as well as salt addition, had the strongest effects on diversity, population composition, or population size. Strain relative fitness was strongly positively correlated among soil treatments, except cold, warm, and salinity, suggesting strains undergo similar selection in the soil. Genome-wide association analysis revealed a complex genetic architecture for soil fitness, characterized by numerous loci of small effect that did not show significant associations. In contrast, when comparing rhizobial fitness between soil and host environments, we found minimal strain fitness correlations, suggesting an independent genetic basis and habitat-specific adaptations. Finally, by examining the relationship between rhizobial fitness in soil and their benefits to the host plant, we found that soil selection influenced the relative abundance of high- and low-quality strains; however, whether these effects were positive or negative for the plant was host-dependent. Our results suggest that rhizobial evolution in soil and host are largely independent, but soil selection can alter mutualism benefits.

IMPORTANCE: Rhizobium-legume mutualism is crucial for introducing nitrogen into agricultural and natural ecosystems, and rhizobial persistence in the soil is an important component of agroecosystems. However, we know little about how populations of rhizobia persist and adapt to this environment, especially in the context of the soil's spatial and temporal variations (temperature, moisture, and soil texture). We found that rhizobia are similarly selected across abiotic soil conditions, but their reproductive success in the soil is independent from their reproductive success in the host. Intriguingly, we found that certain soil conditions increase (or decrease) the relative abundance of more beneficial strains. Understanding how rhizobia adapt to diverse environments is crucial for developing effective bioinoculants that persist in the soil while remaining highly competitive for host colonization and beneficial to the plant.},
}

@article {pmid42113365,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, Z and Lu, R and Zhang, Q and Jing, Y and Peng, C},
title = {Colonization of three Sphagneticola species by Funneliformis mosseae under cadmium stress is beneficial to phosphatase activity and nutrient uptake in rhizosphere soil.},
journal = {Botanical studies},
volume = {67},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42113365},
issn = {1817-406X},
support = {32501397//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 202502GY008//Chaozhou Science and Technology Plan Project/ ; 2021B1212040015//Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Substances in Medicinal Edible Resources and Healthcare Products/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Soil cadmium (Cd) contamination poses threats to ecosystems and human health, and the plant arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) symbiotic system represents a promising green remediation strategy. However, the underlying mechanisms are complex and context-dependent, and systematic comparative studies remain scarce regarding differential regulation of Cd tolerance enhancement in plants of the same genus but different ecotypes. This study used a native species (Sphagneticola calendulacea), invasive species (Sphagneticola trilobata), and their hybrid as materials. It conducted an integrated analysis of the synergistic effects of inoculating Funneliformis mosseae (FM) on the rhizosphere microenvironment and mineral element uptake of three plants under a Cd stress gradient. The objective was to elucidate the interactive mechanisms by which FM enhances plant Cd tolerance and to evaluate its remediation potential.

RESULTS: Results indicate that FM regulation of rhizosphere pH exhibits species specificity but generally alleviates Cd induced acidification. FM significantly enhances acid phosphatase activity in rhizosphere soil and substantially promotes plant phosphorus (P) uptake. FM comprehensively altered plant mineral element uptake, including promoting root accumulation of sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), and calcium (Ca), shoot potassium (K) allocation, and copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) absorption.

CONCLUSIONS: This study elucidates how FM enhances P uptake and systematically optimizes elemental absorption homeostasis by regulating rhizosphere pH and phosphatase activity. These synergistic effects improve Cd tolerance in Sphagneticola species and highlight the broad potential of AMF-plant symbioses for Cd remediation. It provides crucial theoretical foundations and germplasm selection references for targeted soil restoration using ecologically distinct Sphagneticola ecotypes and their optimal FM partners.},
}

@article {pmid41995255,
year = {2026},
author = {Underwood, TJ and Poole, PS},
title = {Resource allocation to pea plant nodules impacted by nitrogen fixation potential of infecting rhizobia.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wrag097},
pmid = {41995255},
issn = {1751-7370},
mesh = {*Pisum sativum/microbiology ; *Nitrogen Fixation ; *Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/metabolism ; *Rhizobium leguminosarum/metabolism/physiology ; Symbiosis ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Legumes host nitrogen-fixing bacteria, called rhizobia, within specialized root structures called 'nodules', where carbon from the plant is exchanged for ammonia fixed from N2 by the bacteria. Legumes can host multiple bacterial strains at the same time, which vary in their fixation effectiveness, but legumes sanction nodules containing less effectively fixing strains by reducing the provision of nutrients. Understanding how sanctions are applied by plants and how bacteria may try to avoid them is important for understanding the stability of legume-rhizobial symbioses. Using near isogenic Rhizobium leguminosarum strains, on pea, we demonstrate that sanctions are sensitive to the proportion of nodules occupied by a less effective strain and by using split roots we show that sanctions are applied based on a global comparison of nodules across the plant's root system. By using several rhizobia with different levels of fixation, but all derived from the same parent, we show that pea plants can differentiate between bacteria with relatively small variations in fixation effectiveness. We demonstrate that peas integrate global signals to determine whether individual nodules are sanctioned. At the same time these results show that poorly fixing strains can avoid sanctions if they dominate nodulation.},
}

*Pisum sativum/microbiology
*Nitrogen Fixation
*Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/metabolism
*Rhizobium leguminosarum/metabolism/physiology
Symbiosis
Plant Roots/microbiology

@article {pmid42105118,
year = {2026},
author = {da Silva, CV},
title = {A Decolonial Lexicon for Immunology.},
journal = {Acta biotheoretica},
volume = {74},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {42105118},
issn = {1572-8358},
mesh = {Humans ; *Allergy and Immunology/history ; },
abstract = {The discipline of immunology has historically been foundationally framed by metaphors of war, portraying the body as a sovereign state defending its territory against foreign invaders. This paradigm, however, is not strictly a biological necessity but also a historical artifact of colonial logic that arguably limits our understanding of symbiosis, tolerance, and the nature of relational pathologies. This paper argues for a decolonial paradigm shift, proposing a comprehensive reframing of the immune system not as a military force but as a sophisticated system of communication, governance, and diplomacy within a multi-species community, the holobiont. We trace the colonial genealogy of war metaphors and expose its conceptual inadequacies in the face of modern biology, distinguishing between historical rhetorical resonances and causal scientific developments. Drawing inspiration from relational and ecological philosophies, we then propose a new conceptual lexicon, using the metaphor of the body as a quilombo, a diverse and resilient community. By separating canonical biological mechanisms from metaphorical interpretation, this framework reframes core immunological processes: inflammation becomes an urgent community assembly, the adaptive response a journey of information, and pathologies like autoimmunity, cancer, and immunodeficiency become crises of communication and social cohesion. Offered as a conceptual heuristic rather than a wholesale structural equivalent, this relational approach offers not only new avenues for research and therapy but also serves as a powerful pedagogical tool to foster a more holistic, integrated, and ecologically conscious view of life itself.},
}

Humans
*Allergy and Immunology/history

@article {pmid42105545,
year = {2026},
author = {Shan, X and Wang, H and Liu, X and Li, P and Zhang, F and Wang, R and Xue, M and Li, F},
title = {Remodeling distinct rhizosphere interactions of plant-microbiome by legacy and alternative PFASs: A multi-omics insight and biphasic role of iron plaque.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {512},
number = {},
pages = {142313},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.142313},
pmid = {42105545},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Rhizosphere microhabitat as a dominant sink for per(poly)fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and hotspot for redox reactions and root iron plaque (IP) forming is largely affected by the interactions between plants and bacteria. However, whether PFOA and its substitute (HFPO-DA) modulated distinct rhizosphere symbiotic patterns and what roles IP played remain unclear. This study integrated plant physiology, metabolism and rhizosphere microbiome to systematically elucidate their differences in remodulating plant-microbiome interactions and IP roles. Results showed that PFOA preferred to accumulate in roots and induced serious oxidative stress, while HFPO-DA was more easily transported to shoots directly affecting photosynthesis. Molecular docking suggested higher proteinic affinity of HFPO-DA, inhibiting superoxide dismutase activity. PFOA and HFPO-DA increased organic acids and sugars in root exudates recruiting differential beneficial bacteria. However, HFPO-DA downregulated the glycerophospholipid metabolism, shaped a more vulnerable and simpler bacterial network. Remarkably, PFASs concentration determined the double-edged roles of IP. At environmental levels, IP promoted glycerophospholipids and small peptides release facilitating azotobacter recruitment and photosynthesis. But under high-dose stress, it induced accelerated pollutant migration especially HFPO-DA, thereby exacerbating phytotoxicity. Partial least squares path modeling revealed that PFOA indirectly influenced plant phenotypes via shaping bacterial community, while HFPO-DA not only modified that but also altered root exudates. This work unveils distinct rhizosphere symbiotic patterns and IP biphasic role remodulated by legacy and alternative PFASs, and provides a reference for their risk assessment and control through nature-based solutions.},
}

@article {pmid42105795,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiang, JH and Wang, XW and Shen, ZQ and Li, QS and Liu, SL and Zhou, LW},
title = {Genomic insights into the transition from saprophytic to parasitic lifestyles in Hymenochaetales.},
journal = {Molecular phylogenetics and evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108632},
doi = {10.1016/j.ympev.2026.108632},
pmid = {42105795},
issn = {1095-9513},
abstract = {Macrofungi play key roles in forest ecosystems by forming symbiotic, saprophytic, and parasitic associations with various plant species. Although previous genomic studies have investigated the transitions between these modes of nutrition, limited attention has been paid to the transition from saprophytic to parasitic ecological lifestyles. Hymenochaetales originated as a saprophytic species, and subsequently transitioned to parasitism on multiple occasions. In this study, we sequenced and compared 27 high-quality genomes of the Hymenochaetales. We identified differences in transposable element content and secretome composition between the saprophyte and parasite species. Specifically, the insertion of long-terminal repeat retrotransposons shortly after parasite speciation may drive the transition from saprophytic to parasitic ecological types. Additionally, the close genomic proximity of TEs to CAZymes and SSPs, along with the higher content in several CAZyme and protease families and SSPs in parasites may contribute to shaping host and substrate preferences. Notably, the Ser/Thr protein kinase was postulated to be crucial for the interaction between parasitic species and their host plants. In conclusion, we provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the transition from saprotrophy to parasitism in Hymenochaetales.},
}

@article {pmid42108234,
year = {2026},
author = {Kato, K and Kaneko, T and Hirayama, R and Tanaka, N and Nakai, H and Torigoe, H and Nakajima, M},
title = {Structural and thermodynamic analyses of a novel β-1,2-glucan binding mode in the ABC transporter solute-binding protein Chy400_4166 from Chloroflexus aurantiacus.},
journal = {The FEBS journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/febs.70576},
pmid = {42108234},
issn = {1742-4658},
abstract = {β-1,2-Glucans are glucose polymers widely distributed in nature and play various physiological roles in the interactions between organisms such as pathogenicity and symbiosis. While various β-1,2-glucan-degrading enzymes have been identified recently, transporters incorporating β-1,2-glucans are still poorly characterized. In this study, we have found a β-1,2-glucan binding protein of ABC transporter from Chloroflexus aurantiacus Y-400-fl, a filamentous anoxygenic phototrophic bacterium. The protein showed a clear affinity for linear β-1,2-glucan in the gel shift assay. Isothermal titration calorimetric analysis revealed high binding affinities for both linear and cyclic β-1,2-glucans, unlike for the barley β-glucan. The recorded binding constants were high for the binding of the ABC transporter to β-1,2-glucans. The observed unfavorable negative entropy change may have resulted from conformational restraints upon complex formation. Complex structures with linear β-1,2-glucan and cyclic β-1,2-glucans with degrees of polymerization of 17-20 were obtained using X-ray crystallography. Ten glucose units, designated A-J from the nonreducing end, were shared among the substrates in the complexes. Unit G is recognized by W74, W308, and D336, which are highly conserved residues within the phylogenetic group Chy400_4166. The substrate-binding mode of Chy400_4166 is completely different from that of the β-1,2-glucooligosaccharide-binding protein from Listeria innocua. The discovery of a new type of β-1,2-glucan-related binding protein has expanded our understanding of the metabolism of β-1,2-glucans.},
}

@article {pmid42108419,
year = {2026},
author = {Chancellor, T and Ferreras Garrucho, G and Akmakjian, GZ and Montero, H and Bowden, S and Hope, MS and Wallington, E and Bhattacharya, S and Korfhage, C and Bailey-Serres, J and Paszkowski, U},
title = {Spatiotemporal regulation of arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis at cellular resolution.},
journal = {The Plant cell},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/plcell/koag133},
pmid = {42108419},
issn = {1532-298X},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis develops through fungal colonization of root epidermal and cortical cells, culminating in the formation of arbuscules, transient, tree-like intracellular hyphal structures for nutrient exchange. To dissect the complexity of AM establishment in rice (Oryza sativa) roots colonized by Rhizophagus irregularis, we conducted spatial transcriptomics of plant and fungal genes at single-cell resolution. This revealed differences in transcriptional activity between fungal structures and reprogramming of plant cell-identity markers upon colonisation. Furthermore, cells hosting similarly developed arbuscules showed striking transcriptional heterogeneity, suggesting hidden functional diversity at the individual cell level. For stage-resolved profiling of translation, we used AM-stage specific Translating Ribosome Affinity Purification RNA-sequencing (TRAP-seq) with promoters active at discrete stages of symbiosis or arbuscule development. This revealed extensive spatiotemporal changes in the ribosome-bound transcript population, including sets of phosphate, nitrogen, and carbon transporters and regulators with specific enrichment and depletion patterns at different stages of arbuscule development. Rice transcripts encoding cell wall biosynthesis genes and defence markers were present in low abundance at early stages but highly abundant at late stages of the arbuscule lifespan, supporting a host-driven shift toward arbuscule termination. Together, these findings highlight the nuanced dynamic regulation of AM symbiosis at the cellular level, refining our understanding of how nutrient exchange and fungal development are coordinated in space and time.},
}

@article {pmid41922966,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Ran, Z and Ma, S and Yao, Y and Liu, Z and Wang, R and Zhang, P and Guo, L and Fang, L and Zhou, J},
title = {Analysis of key nodes and metabolic pathways in the protein network of secondary metabolism in Panax quinquefolius L. enhanced by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41922966},
issn = {1471-2229},
support = {2023YFC3503802//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2060302//Key project at central government level: The ability establishment of sustainable use for valuable Chinese medicine resources/ ; YDZX2025015//Central-Guided Local Science and Technology Development Fund Program/ ; ZR2024MH253//Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) formed symbiotic relationships with roots and were capable of promoting the growth of the medicinal plant Panax quinquefolius L. as well as the accumulation of its active component, ginsenosides. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying this process remained unclear. To elucidate the protein signaling pathways through which AMF regulates the secondary metabolism of P. quinquefolius and to promote the application of AMF inoculants in the cultivation of medicinal herbs, this study employed a controlled pot experiment, establishing an AMF-inoculated group along with a control group. Tandem mass tag (TMT) labeling quantitative techniques were utilized for the proteomic analysis of the roots, and these results were utilized to conduct a correlation analysis with the previous transcriptomics and metabolomics data.

RESULTS: AMF significantly regulated the growth and protein expression profile of P. quinquefolius, leading to the identification of 214 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment analysis indicated that the DEPs were involved in oxidoreductase activity, ligase activity. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional enrichment analysis showed that pathways related to nitrogen metabolism biosynthesis, carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and pyruvate metabolism were significantly enriched among the DEPs. Additionally, pyruvate kinase was identified as a key network node in protein interactions. Multi-omics analysis revealed that proteins such as S-adenosylmethionine synthetase, involved in cysteine and methionine metabolism, and genes such as CYCD3, related to plant hormone signal transduction, were significantly upregulated, with their expression levels showing a significant positive correlation with ginsenoside accumulation.

CONCLUSIONS: This study identifies critical nodes and pathways at the protein level through which AMF regulates secondary metabolism in P. quinquefolius, providing foundational data for the expansion of AMF research and application in the field of medicinal herbs.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12870-026-08629-0.},
}

@article {pmid42104558,
year = {2026},
author = {Luo, X and Lei, Z and Fang, D and Chen, H and Qian, L and Jin, C and Wang, X and Liu, X and Liu, H and Wang, Y},
title = {Integrated multi-omics decipher the complex nodule microbiota and distinct Frankiaceae symbiotic traits in wild actinorhizal plants.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71234},
pmid = {42104558},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {32300265//Young Scientists Fund of the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Actinorhizal plants are ecologically important pioneer species in temperate regions, capable of nitrogen-fixing root nodule symbiosis with Frankiaceae bacteria. Despite their significance within the nitrogen-fixing clades (NFC), multi-omics studies of actinorhizal symbiosis remain scarce. We profiled prokaryotic communities in the rhizosphere, root, and/or nodule compartments from five phylogenetically representative actinorhizal species, three legumes, and four nonnodulated NFC species using 16S rDNA sequencing. Transcriptomic and metagenomic analyses were performed on actinorhizal roots and nodules, respectively. Metagenome-assembled genomes revealed four novel Frankiaceae species. Frankiae relative abundance levels in nodules were generally lower than rhizobia in legumes. Actinorhizal nodules harbour diverse bacterial taxa, which exhibit predominantly positive interactions, with Frankiae forming a tightly interacting subgroup. Actinorhizal plants engage actively with soil microbiota, recruiting a specific rhizosphere community enriched with beneficial microbes, including ammonia-oxidising archaea. Many symbiotic mechanisms in nodulating host plants are conserved and derived from pre-existing molecular modules. Our analysis suggests the phosphoinositide signalling likely functions in actinorhizal symbiotic signal transduction. However, Frankiae exhibit fundamentally different symbiotic functional characteristics compared to rhizobia, reflecting less intimate symbiosis, which might favour the life-history strategies of temperate perennial actinorhizal plants.},
}

@article {pmid42099577,
year = {2026},
author = {Penton, CR and Vadakattu, G},
title = {The root rhizosphere as a functional analog to the gut microbiome: Cases for microbial symbiosis and dysbiosis in parallel contexts.},
journal = {PNAS nexus},
volume = {5},
number = {5},
pages = {pgag132},
pmid = {42099577},
issn = {2752-6542},
abstract = {Microbiomes associated with both the human gut and plant root rhizosphere are essential for the maintenance of host health and function as holobionts where both the host and microbiome operate as an integrated unit. Though substantial differences exist in both host biology and environment, these systems share functional parallels: both are enriched by host-derived nutrients, undergo successional shifts during development, and maintain core microbiomes that are taxonomically variable yet functionally redundant. Central to both systems is the balance that is maintained where beneficial microbes regulate nutrient cycling, modulate host immune response, and suppress pathogens in the presence of biotic and abiotic influences that may serve to disrupt this equilibrium. When dysbiosis occurs, there is a disruption in the composition and/or function of the associated microbiome and a loss of beneficial functional guilds, which results in a reduction in host fitness. These shared dynamics underscore dysbiosis as a cross-kingdom pathology that may be treated with similar interventions. Probiotics and prebiotics mirror microbial inoculants and organic amendments; synbiotics incorporate both biotic and abiotic factors, while fecal and soil microbiome transplants represent parallel strategies to restore a beneficial microbiome. By framing dysbiosis within a "One Health" perspective and illustrating the connectedness between human and plant health, this review advocates for microbial stewardship as a unifying strategy to mitigate disease, enhance resilience, and ensure sustainable health across both systems.},
}

@article {pmid42099763,
year = {2026},
author = {Alkan, G and Yıkmış, S and Türkol, M and Karrar, E and Aljobair, MO and Mohamed Ahmed, IA and Althawab, SA},
title = {Evaluation of the antidiabetic potential and bioaccessibility of propolis-enriched aronia kombucha: an in vitro study.},
journal = {Frontiers in nutrition},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1819568},
pmid = {42099763},
issn = {2296-861X},
abstract = {Defined as a fermented tea beverage, kombucha is obtained via the metabolic activity of a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts (SCOBY) in sweetened tea, and it is widely recognized for its associated functional and bioactive properties. In this study, kombucha fermented with aronia tea (AK) and aronia kombucha enriched with propolis (PAK) were examined together to evaluate bioactive components, phenolic profile, in vitro bioaccessibility, and antidiabetic potential. Response surface methodology showed that the amount of aronia tea (X1) and the concentration of propolis (X2) had significant effects on TPC, TFC, and DPPH; the optimum formulation was obtained at a level of 11.09 g/L aronia tea and 1.42% propolis. Throughout the fermentation, PAK exhibited higher values for TPC compared to AK; TPC, which was 367.32 ± 2.56 μg GAE/mL on day 0, was maintained at 345.28 ± 4.40 μg GAE/mL on day 14. Although TPC/TFC decreased in both groups during simulated digestion, PAK maintained a higher level in all phases; recovery was found to be ~34% in TPC and ~40% in TFC. In the phenolic profile, rutin (1.18 → 3.03 μg/mL) and t-ferulic acid (0.66 → 2.21 μg/mL) increased with fermentation, while the addition of propolis significantly enriched flavonoids, especially chrysin (≈17.75-19.14 μg/mL) and quercetin (day 14: 1.55 μg/mL). This phenolic potentiation is consistent with PAK enhancing α-glucosidase (42.04%) and α-amylase (44.68%) inhibition. Future studies should investigate reproducibility, colonic fermentation-microbiota interaction, and target metabolite tracking under varying sucrose levels and SCOBY profiles; clinical validation should also be supported by sensory acceptance, shelf life, and safety parameters.},
}

@article {pmid42100031,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, R and Kong, X and Hu, B and Chen, M and Wang, C and Qiu, L and Yan, Z},
title = {Multi-omics reveals metabolic reprogramming underlying differential modulation of nodulation and root development by nitrate and ammonium in soybean.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1813591},
pmid = {42100031},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Nitrogen form and concentration are key environmental regulators that mediate symbiotic nitrogen fixation and root development in legumes.

METHODS: To understand the metabolic and molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of distinct nitrogen sources (nitrate and ammonium) on soybean nodulation and root development, this study evaluated root and nodulation phenotypes, and their corresponding transcriptional and metabolomic responses under different concentrations of NH₄Cl or KNO₃.

RESULTS: Results showed that both high concentrations of NH₄Cl and KNO₃ significantly suppressed nodulation and promoted root growth, with nitrate exerting a stronger effect than ammonium. Metabolomic analysis revealed that ammonium treatment enhanced nitrogen assimilation and primary metabolism while suppressing symbiosis-related flavonoids. Nitrate specifically activated chemical defense pathways and inhibited parts of central carbon metabolism. Integrated multi-omics analysis indicated that the nitrogen sources differentially regulated key genes and metabolites involved in nitrogen metabolism, flavonoid/isoflavonoid biosynthesis, and arginine metabolism, leading to distinct metabolic fluxes.

DISCUSSION: Our results demonstrate that soybean perceives different nitrogen forms to orchestrate a metabolic trade-off between autonomous growth, defense, and symbiosis, thereby providing new insights into the mechanistic basis of nitrogen-form adaptation in legumes.},
}

@article {pmid42100037,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, Y and Sun, L and Li, X and Yang, M and Tang, X and Wang, K},
title = {The effect of endophytic bacteria on the growth, medicinal quality, and rhizosphere soil environment of Isatis indigotica Fort.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1821717},
pmid = {42100037},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Plant growth-promoting endophytes (PGPE) can form a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship with host plants, analyzing the ability of endophytic bacteria of Isatis indigotica to promote growth and improve the rhizosphere environment and exploring the influence of dominant endophytic bacteria on the structure of rhizosphere microbial communities. In this study, we evaluated the ability of the three endophytic bacteria strains by a field experiment. The single endophytic bacterial strain and combination of every two bacterial strains were used for irrigating the rhizosphere of I. indigotica four times, and related indicators and rhizosphere soil of I. indigotica were measured. We screened out the dominant treatment groups based on the total active biomass of I. indigotica and analyzed microbial diversity of rhizosphere soil in dominant treatment groups. The results showed that endophyte treatments had significant effects on growth and physiology of I. indigotica, in which T11-28 and BC00 had the most significant effect on the dry weight of the aboveground part and underground part, respectively. The endophyte treatments had different effects on the content of active ingredients, rhizosphere soil chemical properties, and enzyme activities of I. indigotica, with BC00 promoting indigo and indirubin in leaves most significantly and BV11 promoting epigoitrin in roots most effectively. Total active biomass was calculated as the product of active ingredient content and biomass per plant. Based on this parameter, BC00 was the dominant treatment group, and the analysis of the diversity of its rhizosphere soil flora revealed that BC00 was able to enrich Methylobacillus, Alternaria, and other plant-growth-friendly flora. In the comprehensive analysis, the treatments of three endophytic bacterial strains of I. indigotica had significant promotion effects on its growth physiology and active ingredients and had obvious improvement effects on the rhizosphere environment, among which BC00 had the best comprehensive effect, which was associated with alterations in the rhizosphere soil microbial community structure.},
}

@article {pmid42100413,
year = {2026},
author = {Ba, C and Tong, S and Wang, Z and Zhu, H and Qian, S},
title = {Metabolic symbiosis and competition: the dual nature of TAM-tumor cell cross-talk in tumor progression.},
journal = {Frontiers in oncology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1821192},
pmid = {42100413},
issn = {2234-943X},
abstract = {Cancer cells and tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) engage in a sophisticated metabolic symbiosis within the tumor microenvironment (TME), where reciprocal metabolite exchange drives immune evasion and malignant progression. This review posits that TAMs functional plasticity is not merely a consequence but a driver of tumor fitness, governed by extensive metabolic rewiring. We dissect the mechanistic underpinnings of this "metabolic dialogue," focusing on the convergence of glycolytic flux, the lactate shuttle, amino acid catabolism, lipid reprogramming, hypoxia-induced adaptations, and TCA cycle anaplerosis. Beyond delineating these pathways, we critically evaluate emerging therapeutic paradigms that target these metabolic nodes, advocating for precision interventions capable of disrupting this pro-tumorigenic alliance while restoring immune surveillance.},
}

@article {pmid42100676,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, A and Zhang, C and Xu, T and Savic, D and Jiang, J and Xiao, P and He, C and Tao, Y and Daigger, G and Ren, N},
title = {Global data-water symbiosis reduces AI infrastructure's carbon and water footprint.},
journal = {Environmental science and ecotechnology},
volume = {31},
number = {},
pages = {100702},
pmid = {42100676},
issn = {2666-4984},
abstract = {Data centres support artificial intelligence (AI) development but place rapidly increasing demands on electricity and freshwater resources, with cooling representing a significant portion of their total energy consumption. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) discharge large volumes of treated effluent with substantial cooling potential; however, their integration with data centre infrastructure has not been evaluated. Here we construct a global geodatabase of over 4775 data centres and 57,547 municipal WWTPs across 98 countries, integrating spatial analysis, engineering systems modelling, optimisation, and life-cycle assessment to quantify the benefits of combining treated water reuse with bidirectional thermal recovery. The analysis reveals a strong global spatial co-occurrence between data centres and WWTPs, enabling optimized national-scale pairings in which treated effluent is used for data centre cooling and the return heat is recovered to support sludge drying and anaerobic digestion. This symbiotic approach reduces greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 84 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent annually, conserves approximately 1300 million m[3] of freshwater, and provides net annual cost savings of approximately US$95.4 billion. The greatest mitigation and water-saving potential lies in the United States, Japan, China, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. These findings establish data-water symbiosis as a readily scalable infrastructure solution that decouples AI from its carbon and water footprints. WWTPs are poised to evolve from disposal facilities into critical energy-coupling hubs, enabling efficient thermal and water exchange across urban systems and accelerating progress towards multiple Sustainable Development Goals.},
}

@article {pmid42101166,
year = {2026},
author = {Huo, L and Wang, Y and Zhai, R and Ji, Q and Qiao, C and Yang, F and Li, F and Pan, L},
title = {Research Progress in the Application of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Alcoholic Liver Disease.},
journal = {Molecular nutrition & food research},
volume = {70},
number = {9},
pages = {e70489},
doi = {10.1002/mnfr.70489},
pmid = {42101166},
issn = {1613-4133},
support = {NYG2024042//Scientific Research Project of Higher Education Institutions of Ningxia Autonomous Region/ ; 2024AAC05047//Natural Science Foundation of Ningxia Province/ ; 2023BCF01028//Science and Technology Department of Ningxia Province/ ; 2022BBF02007//Science and Technology Department of Ningxia Province/ ; 2023BCF01029//Science and Technology Department of Ningxia Province/ ; 2022BBF01003//Science and Technology Department of Ningxia Province/ ; 2025CXTD002//Ningxia hui autonomous region technology innovation team for high-quality development of characteristic agricultural products/ ; },
mesh = {*Liver Diseases, Alcoholic/therapy/microbiology ; Humans ; *Probiotics/therapeutic use ; *Lactobacillales/physiology ; Animals ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Oxidative Stress ; Lipid Metabolism ; },
abstract = {Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are the main probiotic microorganisms in the human gastrointestinal tract, and their safety in food is recognized globally. Exploring the mechanisms by which LAB mitigate liver injury is crucial for their appropriate application. Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) can be alleviated by improving intestinal epithelial barrier function, controlling lipid metabolism, downregulating inflammatory mediators, and reducing oxidative stress. These mechanisms play important roles in the positive effects of LAB in alleviating liver injury, providing a systematic theoretical basis and practical basis for the clinical application of these bacteria. Future research should focus on transitioning LAB-based interventions for ALD from mechanistic exploration to precision applications. This transition will require a concerted effort in screening functional strains with well-defined molecular targets, developing characterized postbiotic formulations, and rationally designing synergistic symbiotic systems. Nevertheless, the strain-specific effects, potential safety concerns in advanced liver disease, and the need for validation in large-scale, endpoint-driven clinical trials remain significant challenges. To address these challenges, the application of intelligent delivery platforms and multidisciplinary strategies will be critical to achieving the ultimate goal of efficient translation into clinical-grade functional foods.},
}

*Liver Diseases, Alcoholic/therapy/microbiology
Humans
*Probiotics/therapeutic use
*Lactobacillales/physiology
Animals
Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Oxidative Stress
Lipid Metabolism

@article {pmid42101191,
year = {2026},
author = {Luo, Y and Tian, P},
title = {Effects and Mechanisms of Sodium Nitroprusside, Spermidine, and Coumarin Addition In Vitro on Epichloë sinensis.},
journal = {Phytopathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {PHYTO09250312R},
doi = {10.1094/PHYTO-09-25-0312-R},
pmid = {42101191},
issn = {0031-949X},
abstract = {Epichloë sinensis forms mutualistic symbiosis with the Chinese native grass Festuca sinensis. However, the mechanisms by which E. sinensis responds to host-derived defense signals remain unclear. To explore these responses, three compounds, sodium nitroprusside, spermidine, and coumarin, were added to a potato dextrose broth (PDB) medium to mimic host defense-related signals. Their effects on the growth, antioxidant capacity, and gene expression of three E. sinensis strains (1, 2, and 84F) isolated from different ecotypes of F. sinensis were identified. The results showed that in PDB, certain concentrations of sodium nitroprusside, spermidine, and coumarin treatments significantly promoted the growth of the three E. sinensis strains (P < 0.05) and significantly increased the total antioxidant capacity, superoxide anion scavenging ability, and hydroxyl radical scavenging ability of culture filtrate (P < 0.05). Most of the sodium nitroprusside and spermidine treatments significantly increased the nitric oxide (NO) concentration in the mycelia of these three E. sinensis strains (P < 0.05), except for the 1.0 mM spermidine treatment, which significantly reduced the NO concentration of strain 84F (P < 0.05). Three coumarin treatments significantly increased the NO concentration in the mycelia of strain 2 (P < 0.05) but significantly reduced the NO concentration of strain 84F (P < 0.05), and 0.68 mM coumarin treatment significantly reduced the NO concentration of strain 1 (P < 0.05). Structural equation modeling supported the hypothesis that exogenous additives affect mycelial biomass through the superoxide anion radical scavenging ability and provided moderate support for additives affecting growth through hydroxyl radical scavenging ability. These three compounds also affected the gene expression of E. sinensis strain 84F, with 135 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) detected in all of the comparisons. Functional annotation revealed that these DEGs were significantly enriched in "amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism," "biosynthesis of antibiotics," "biosynthesis of amino acids," "sulfur metabolism," and "cellular iron ion homeostasis." In addition, these three compounds regulated the expression of 59 antioxidant-related genes and 31 NO synthesis-related genes of E. sinensis. These results suggest that E. sinensis is sensitive to host defense-related signals and can adjust its antioxidant capacity and key metabolic pathways in response, reflecting its physiological adaptability under in vitro conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42101618,
year = {2026},
author = {Nguyen, PN and Rehan, SM},
title = {Microbial Communities Across Social Roles in Small Carpenter Bee Nests.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00248-026-02787-2},
pmid = {42101618},
issn = {1432-184X},
abstract = {Bee microbiota form important symbiotic relationships with their hosts, but microbial communities vary across bee species, sociality, and environment. Comparing the microbiome of bees with different social roles and foraging behaviours may uncover the ways in which microbiota are environmentally acquired and subsequently introduced and spread into the nest environment. Here, we performed metabarcoding of the 16S rRNA, ITS, and ribulose biphosphate carboxylase large (rbcL) regions on mothers, dwarf eldest daughters, and regular daughters in nests of the facultatively social, small carpenter bee, Ceratina calcarata, contrasting bacteria, fungi, and plant associates. We also performed two different sampling types by characterizing the microbiome using whole-guts and whole-bodies. Social role in nest impacted the microbial community composition and mothers were found to demonstrate increased plant diversity compared to their daughters, more specifically in whole-bodies, highlighting the ability to determine plants that bees are visiting during foraging through DNA metabarcoding. We also found that metabarcoding of the whole-body recovered increased fungal and plant diversity compared to whole-guts, suggesting that including microbiota from beyond the gut offers an opportunity to characterize uncommon associates that bees encounter, particularly through plant-pollinator relationships. As the transmission of beneficial symbionts and pathogens between individuals are studied for its impact on bee health, microbial analyses of bees across different environments and levels of sociality provides unique biomonitoring that can indicate the health of the larger bee community.},
}

@article {pmid42101639,
year = {2026},
author = {Makkar, P and Singh, CK and V, N and Narang, PK and Sodhi, KK},
title = {Insect immunity unveiled: exploring the molecular and cellular defenses against microbial threats.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42101639},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {Animals ; *Immunity, Innate ; *Insecta/immunology/microbiology ; Receptors, Pattern Recognition/immunology ; Microbiota/immunology ; Hemocytes/immunology ; Symbiosis ; Drosophila melanogaster/immunology/microbiology ; Bombyx/immunology/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Insects, as diverse and ecologically dominant organisms, rely exclusively on innate immunity to defend against a wide array of microbial threats. This paper presents an integrative review of insect immune mechanisms, highlighting the molecular, cellular, and systemic components that underpin host defense. The immune response is orchestrated through physical barriers, cellular processes and humoral factors. Evolutionarily conserved pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) are essential to these processes. Emphasis is laid on pivotal functions of hemocytes, the significance of microbiome interactions in immune regulation, and the emerging influence of non-coding RNAs. Furthermore, the paper explores defensive symbiosis, environmental and evolutionary influences on immune dynamics, and applications in biotechnology and pest management. Model organisms, such as Drosophila melanogaster and Bombyx mori, serve as critical systems for unravelling innate immunity, with translational relevance to vertebrate immunology and vector control strategies. Understanding these mechanisms offers valuable insights into conserved immune pathways and holds promise for advancing strategies in human disease prevention, therapeutic innovation, and global health.},
}

Animals
*Immunity, Innate
*Insecta/immunology/microbiology
Receptors, Pattern Recognition/immunology
Microbiota/immunology
Hemocytes/immunology
Symbiosis
Drosophila melanogaster/immunology/microbiology
Bombyx/immunology/microbiology

@article {pmid42101888,
year = {2026},
author = {Gould, AL},
title = {Specificity across scales: Insights from the Siphamia-Photobacterium mandapamensis symbiosis.},
journal = {Integrative and comparative biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/icb/icag043},
pmid = {42101888},
issn = {1557-7023},
abstract = {Specificity, the selective partnership between a host and particular microbial taxa, is a fundamental feature of microbial symbioses, yet the mechanisms that generate and maintain specificity can be difficult to disentangle across the evolutionary, ecological and molecular scales at which they operate. Binary symbioses, in which a single host and microbial species interact, offer powerful systems for investigating these mechanisms across biological scales. Here, current knowledge of the symbiosis between siphonfish in the genus Siphamia and their bioluminescent symbiont, Photobacterium mandapamensis, is synthesized to illustrate ways in which specificity operates across multiple scales in this vertebrate-bacteria association. At the evolutionary scale, P. mandapamensis is the exclusive symbiont across all Siphamia species throughout the Indo-Pacific examined to date, indicating specificity is a conserved feature of the association. At the ecological scale, host behavior may generate local symbiont pools that reinforce specificity across host generations, promoting fine-scale genetic divergence among symbiont populations. At the molecular scale, comparative genomics between P. mandapamensis and the closely related, yet incompatible P. leiognathi reveals candidate loci unique to P. mandapamensis that encode putative systems for exopolysaccharide biosynthesis, iron transport, host-specific attachment and surface recognition, and nitrogen assimilation. Together, these findings illustrate that specificity in this system is not the product of any single mechanism, but of multiple processes operating across these scales and feeding back to one another, positioning the Siphamia-P. mandapamensis symbiosis as a tractable model for investigating how partner fidelity is generated, maintained, and potentially disrupted in a changing world.},
}

@article {pmid42104021,
year = {2026},
author = {De Lara-Del Rey, IA and Pérez-Fernández, M and Magadlela, A},
title = {The Interplay of Light and Microbial Symbiosis in Shaping Plant Economic Spectrum Strategies.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00248-026-02777-4},
pmid = {42104021},
issn = {1432-184X},
abstract = {Legume-rhizobia symbiosis are fundamental drivers of nitrogen cycling and plant performance, yet their role in facilitating species strategies along the Plant Economic Spectrum (PES) remains insufficiently understood. We conducted a field experiment with four legume species subjected to light and shade treatments, with and without rhizobial inoculation, to assess plant survival, biomass accumulation, nodulation, nitrogen acquisition, and isotopic signatures, alongside microbial community diversity and shifts in vegetation composition. Results demonstrate that inoculation significantly enhanced survival, growth rates, nitrogen accumulation, and nodulation across species, particularly under light conditions, indicating that microbial symbiosis promotes acquisitive strategies within the PES framework. Contrary, shaded environments consistently favoured higher survival and root allocation but reduced growth, nodulation, and nitrogen fixation, reflecting more conservative resource-use strategies. Species-specific responses revealed differential PES positioning: Trifolium repens L. exhibited high acquisitive capacity under light, while Coronilla juncea L. showed poor survival and growth under both conditions, highlighting the interaction between phylogenetic identity and resource availability. Additionally, δ[15]N and %Ndfa values confirmed that inoculation increased nitrogen fixation efficiency, whereas microbial diversity analyses indicated strong shifts in soil bacterial communities associated with inoculated plants, suggesting feedback between symbiosis and soil microbiota. These findings support two main hypotheses: (i) rhizobial inoculation acts as a biotic driver promoting acquisitive strategies by enhancing resource acquisition and growth efficiency, and (ii) light availability serves as an abiotic axis that modulates species positions along the PES continuum. Together, our study provides novel evidence that both microbial interactions and resource availability jointly determine legume strategies within the PES.},
}

@article {pmid42104451,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, R and Huang, P and Pu, C and Zhu, F and Wang, C and Cai, C and Xiang, N and Ren, M and Ma, Q and Li, J},
title = {Azolla reshapes rhizosphere microbiomes and nutrient cycling in paddy fields.},
journal = {Environmental microbiome},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s40793-026-00903-w},
pmid = {42104451},
issn = {2524-6372},
support = {1+9KJGG008//Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences/ ; NKYRCZX2024024//Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences/ ; 5+1QYGG006//Science and Technology Program of Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences/ ; 2024NSFSC1229//National Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan Province of China/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Soil quality is a critical determinant of agricultural productivity and sustainability. The symbiotic nitrogen fixation by Azolla plays a key role in enhancing soil quality. However, despite its potential as a green manure for enhancing soil quality, the role of Azolla in paddy systems remains inadequately characterized. This study aims to elucidate the effects of Azolla on soil quality by examining nutrient cycling dynamics and microbial community composition, along with their interactions.

RESULTS: We integrated soil physicochemical analyses, enzyme activity assays, bacterial community profiling, co-occurrence network analysis, and correlation assessments to evaluate the effects of Azolla on soil microbial ecology. Rice monoculture (R) and rice-Azolla co-cultivation (RA) systems were established. RA significantly increased activities of carbon- and nitrogen-cycle-related enzymes by 3-44% (P < 0.05), while phosphorus-cycle-related enzyme activities decreased by 12-42%. Under high nitrogen fertilization, Azolla altered bacterial community structure and reduced alpha diversity. Notably, Azolla recruited specific functional taxa-including Haliangium, SC-I-84, Candidatus_Solibacter, Anaerolinea, and Sphingomonas-whose relative abundances were 1.03-1.33 times higher in RA than in R.

CONCLUSIONS: This study elucidates the interactions between soil properties and microbial communities under Azolla application and uncovers the mechanisms by which Azolla enhances soil quality through nutrient cycling. Our findings demonstrate that Azolla, as a green manure, not only elevates soil nutrient content but also improves soil quality by driving microbe-mediated nutrient recycling. These results underscore the potential of Azolla as a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilization practices, offering novel insights into biofertilizer strategies for agricultural soil enhancement.},
}

@article {pmid41904374,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, H and Zhang, M and Hu, Y and Bai, A and Zhou, W},
title = {Phosphorus-driven rhizobial community assembly underpins superior nitrogen fixation efficiency in high-oil soybean.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41904374},
issn = {1471-2229},
support = {2023ZD0403106//Major Project of Agricultural Biological Breeding/ ; LJGXCG2022-107//Low-carbon Green Agriculture of Grain Crops Project/ ; LBH-Q21162//Postdoctoral Scientific Research Startup Fund Project of Heilongjiang Province/ ; zd-2025-030//Guiding Science and Technology Plan Project of Daqing City/ ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Phosphorus (P) supply plays a critical role in regulating symbiotic nitrogen (N) acquisition in soybeans, yet the mechanisms underlying varietal differences between high-oil and non-high-oil varieties remain poorly understood. This study investigated the varietal-specific mechanisms of phosphorus supply intensity on plant nitrogen acquisition via rhizobial community restructuring using two high-oil (Kenong 18, Kenong 39) and two non-high-oil varieties (Heihe 43, Longken 310) under five phosphorus levels (0, 35, 70, 105, 140 kg·hm[− 2]). The results showed that high-oil varieties exhibited superior growth performance and nitrogen acquisition efficiency at 105 kg·hm[− 2] phosphorus supply, with increases of 20.0% in plant height, 4.1% in shoot dry weight and 18.0% in root dry weight versus controls. Nodule number, dry weight and haemoglobin content increased by 83.0%, 30.0% and 33.0%, respectively, in high-oil genotypes. Enhanced nitrogen metabolism was evidenced by significantly elevated GOGAT/GS activities (9.3–17.1%) and leaf total nitrogen content. Crucially, under optimal phosphorus conditions, high-oil varieties enriched specific nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, such as Bradyrhizobium sp. 173_3_module and Rhizobium sp., and exhibited stronger correlations between community structure and soil available phosphorus (AP), along with a predicted greater potential for nitrogen acquisition and aerobic chemoheterotrophy. This study demonstrates that optimal phosphorus supply enhances symbiotic nitrogen acquisition efficiency in high-oil soybeans by driving the assembly of more specialized rhizobial communities, providing microbial mechanistic insights for varietal-specific phosphorus management in soybean cultivation.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12870-026-08459-0.},
}

@article {pmid42093056,
year = {2026},
author = {Itoh, H and Shimoji, H and Nakane, D and Jang, S and Kikuchi, Y},
title = {Soil pH as an external filter shaping stink bug-Burkholderia gut symbiosis.},
journal = {Microbiome},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42093056},
issn = {2049-2618},
support = {19K15724//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 22H05065//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Symbiosis ; *Burkholderia/physiology/isolation & purification/genetics/classification ; *Soil/chemistry ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Heteroptera/microbiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Many animals and plants establish intimate symbiotic relationships with specific microorganisms acquired from the environment. Given the immense diversity of environmental microbiomes, selecting appropriate partners from such a vast microbial pool poses a critical challenge for host organisms. To meet this challenge, hosts have evolved sophisticated internal partner-choice mechanisms that ensure stable associations with beneficial microbes. However, because these symbionts primarily inhabit external environments, environmental conditions themselves are also expected to influence the establishment of symbiosis. Despite this expectation, the mechanistic role of external environmental filters in shaping the intended symbiosis remains largely unexplored. Focusing on stink bugs, which acquire their symbiotic bacteria from soil each generation, we investigated how soil properties influence the establishment of gut symbiosis in terrestrial insects.

RESULTS: Microbiome analyses confirmed that Burkholderia sensu lato overwhelmingly dominates a specific gut organ in six stink bug species from the superfamilies Coreoidea and Lygaeoidea, including serious agricultural pests (relative abundance ranging from 74.5 to 100%). Rearing experiments with isolated Burkholderia revealed that insects were strictly dependent on this symbiont; failure to acquire it from soil severely reduced host growth and reproduction, indicating that the availability of symbionts from soil can represent an ecological constraint. Field surveys identified patches of exceptionally high stink bug density in weedy fields with soil pH < 7.0, whereas such aggregations were absent in fields with pH ≥ 7.0. Laboratory experiments with collected field soils showed that the abundance of Burkholderia in soils was negatively correlated with soil pH, and stink bugs readily acquired their symbionts from soils with pH < 7.0 but rarely from soils with pH ≥ 7.0. Experimental manipulations of soil pH followed by rearing experiments confirmed that increasing soil pH to 7-8 markedly suppressed symbiont acquisition by the host, likely by impairing symbiont growth and motility.

CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrate that, beyond host-intrinsic mechanisms, a soil chemical property can act as an externally filter that constrains symbiont acquisition prior to colonization inside the host in a stink bug-Burkholderia symbiosis. This finding highlights how local environmental conditions can shape the assembly of environmentally acquired insect-microbe symbioses. Video Abstract.},
}

Animals
*Symbiosis
*Burkholderia/physiology/isolation & purification/genetics/classification
*Soil/chemistry
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
*Soil Microbiology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Heteroptera/microbiology

@article {pmid42093691,
year = {2026},
author = {Shivashakarappa, K and Ghimire, N and Wang, L and Dumenyo, K and Pariyar, S and Busch, W and Taheri, A},
title = {YOLO-based high-throughput phenotyping pipeline for soybean nodulation traits in genomic research.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1816132},
pmid = {42093691},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {The symbiotic interaction between soybean (Glycine max) and Bradyrhizobium japonicum results in the formation of root nodules, specialized organs that house nitrogen-fixing bacteria converting atmospheric N2 into plant-accessible ammonia (NH3). Accurate quantification of nodule traits is essential for understanding host-microbe interactions and genetic determinants of nodulation. However, traditional manual or semi-quantitative approaches are labor-intensive, subjective, and unsuitable for large-scale studies. Here, we present a high-throughput phenotyping pipeline based on the YOLO deep learning architecture for the automated detection and extraction of soybean root traits. The pipeline quantifies nodule count, dimensions, and spatial distribution, enabling measurement of 24 distinct nodulation-related traits. Using root images from 21-day-old hydroponically grown soybean plants, the model achieved a precision of 0.94, a recall of 0.95, and an F1 score of 0.94 for nodule detection, maintaining accuracy across count ranges. It processes 50 root images in 37 seconds on a single GPU (45 GB memory), representing a ~227-fold improvement in efficiency compared to manual scoring (~2 h 20 min). As proof of concept, we applied this pipeline in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using the FarmCPU approach and identified 50 significant SNPs associated with multiple nodulation traits, including novel ones. Several candidate genes linked to these loci suggest potential new regulators of nodulation. This YOLO-based phenotyping framework provides a robust, scalable, and reproducible tool for trait discovery and genetic analysis, advancing research in legume genomics and crop improvement. To promote the adoption of this user-friendly nodulation phenotyping pipeline and to support its further development, we have made all essential resources publicly available at: https://github.com/Salk-Harnessing-Plants-Initiative/soybean-nodule-detection.},
}

@article {pmid42094709,
year = {2026},
author = {Mallick, S and Pavloudi, C and Chakkalakkal, GJ and Lažetić, V and Saw, J and Eleftherianos, I},
title = {A dataset on microbiome alterations in Drosophila melanogaster infected by entomopathogenic nematodes.},
journal = {Data in brief},
volume = {66},
number = {},
pages = {112794},
pmid = {42094709},
issn = {2352-3409},
abstract = {The fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster is an excellent model for dissecting the molecular processes that regulate host-microbe interactions and the role of the microbiome in host homeostasis. More recently, the fly has also been used as a model for understanding entomopathogenic nematode infection and host response against these parasites. To gain insights into the effect of entomopathogenic nematode infection on the insect microbiome, D. melanogaster larvae were exposed to Heterorhabditis bacteriophora containing their symbiotic bacteria Photorhabdus luminescens (symbiotic worms) and nematodes lacking their bacterial symbionts (axenic worms). Microbiome changes were examined through 16S rRNA sequencing. Data were collected at 24- and 48-hours following infection of D. melanogaster larvae with either type of nematode. The complete set of raw sequencing data generated in this study has been deposited in the European Nucleotide Archive under accession number PRJEB85826.},
}

@article {pmid42094744,
year = {2026},
author = {Ohashi, H and Shigaki, S and Fujii, S and Shimizu, M and Hosoda, K},
title = {Evaluation of material effects on three-dimensional cultured skeletal muscle cells for biohybrid robots.},
journal = {Frontiers in robotics and AI},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1778864},
pmid = {42094744},
issn = {2296-9144},
abstract = {Robots are traditionally confined to controlled environments such as factories, where human interactions are limited. However, the demand for robots that are capable of collaborating with humans is increasing. To achieve symbiosis, integrating the physical flexibility and environmental adaptability of living organisms into robotic systems is crucial. An example of such a robot is a biohybrid robot driven by three-dimensional (3D) cultured skeletal muscle cells. These muscle cells, which are composed of myoblasts and an extracellular matrix (ECM), contract and generate force in response to external stimuli. The standardization of such 3D-cultured skeletal muscle cells is essential for practical applications. However, their complete standardization has not yet been achieved. The contractile force of 3D-cultured skeletal muscle cells produced via 3D printing is still insufficient for practical applications as actuators in biohybrid robots. In a previous study, we developed a simple fabrication method for 3D-cultured skeletal muscle cells. These bio-cultured artificial muscle (BiCAM) cells can control the shape and cell alignment of tissues. Differences in the composition of an ECM have been suggested to affect the contractile force of 3D skeletal muscle tissues; however, their impact on the response characteristics remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated how the ECM composition influences the contractile force of 3D skeletal muscle cells in biohybrid robots as a step toward their eventual standardization. Compared with tissues cultured under MF conditions, in which electrically induced contraction was previously confirmed, tissues cultured under CM conditions exhibited an approximately two-fold greater contractile force at voltage amplitudes of 10 and 30 V. Furthermore, the fabrication success rate was 100 % under CM conditions but only 62.5-70 % under other ECM conditions. In contrast, although CM tissues generated larger forces, tissues cultured under MgF and CMg conditions exhibited higher-frequency response. These findings demonstrated that the BiCAM is a viable actuator and offers new possibilities for the design of biohybrid robots.},
}

@article {pmid42094764,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, RZ and Zhao, XY and Zhao, XY and Zhao, WS and Hu, SP and Li, RP and Yu, XF and Gao, JL and Borjigin, Q},
title = {From the 3rd to the 7th year after straw return, different straw-returning practices drive shifts in soil fungal community composition, functional differentiation, and the reconfiguration of community assembly processes.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1808010},
pmid = {42094764},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: In long-term straw-returning systems, a year-scale understanding of how contrasting tillage practices shape soil fungal succession and community assembly remains limited.

METHODS: Based on a long-term field experiment, we investigated soil fungal communities using ITS sequencing during years 3-7 after straw return (2020-2024) under farmer shallow rotary tillage (CK) and three treatments: deep ploughing return (DPR), subsoiling straw return (SSR), and no-tillage mulching return (NTR). Fungal diversity, community composition, functional guilds, and assembly pathways were evaluated by integrating functional guild assignment, co-occurrence network analysis, and null-model metrics (βNTI) with a neutral community model.

RESULTS: Fungal α-diversity showed a pronounced mid-term increase (years 4-5; +18-40% in Shannon index) and stabilized thereafter (variation <15%), indicating a transition toward community equilibrium. Community composition exhibited directional turnover, with Ascomycota decreasing (~31-44%) and Basidiomycota increasing (up to ~226-228%). By year 7, clear treatment-specific differences emerged: Ascomycota was higher in DPR than in SSR (+62.96%), whereas Blastocladiomycota increased markedly in NTR (4.49-31.40-fold). At the genus level, DPR enriched Trichosporiella (up to 29.74-fold higher than NTR), while Solicoccozyma was more abundant in SSR and NTR (2.94-3.00-fold higher than DPR). Functionally, DPR increased symbiotic guilds (+90.81%), whereas SSR and NTR showed higher pathogen-associated guilds (e.g., SSR 1.63-fold higher than DPR). Network analysis revealed that NTR formed the largest network but with stronger pathogen-associated signals, whereas DPR showed higher cooperativity (93.61% positive edges) and stability. Assembly analyses indicated overall stochastic dominance, with increased deterministic processes in NTR in year 5 (βNTI > 2). The neutral model showed moderate fit (R[2] = 0.5132), with greater deviation under NTR. Soil microbial biomass, enzyme activities, soil organic matter, and moisture were key drivers of community shifts.

DISCUSSION: These results demonstrate that contrasting straw-returning practices regulate fungal succession through compositional turnover, functional differentiation, and assembly reconfiguration, providing insights for optimizing straw-return management and promoting sustainable cropland systems.},
}

@article {pmid42095092,
year = {2026},
author = {Gavrieli, N and Amit, T and Gross, M and Kramer, N and Loya, Y},
title = {Persistent phenological synchrony in a coral-bivalve symbiosis across five decades.},
journal = {iScience},
volume = {29},
number = {5},
pages = {115527},
pmid = {42095092},
issn = {2589-0042},
abstract = {Long-term species interactions are often sensitive to environmental change, yet some symbioses maintain coordinated phenological patterns over extended timescales. We examined a five-decade record of reproductive timing in the Red Sea coral Stylophora pistillata and its boring bivalve symbiont Leiosolenus lessepsianus at 30 m depth in the Gulf of Eilat/Aqaba. Historical data (1970s-80s) were compared with monthly observations from 2021-22 of coral and bivalve reproductive development. Both species exhibited clear shifts in seasonal phenology, yet their temporal synchrony remained intact. S. pistillata displayed a 3-month extension of its planula-release season, whereas L. lessepsianus now begins and ends reproduction approximately 1 month later than historically observed. Despite these shifts, larval settlement continues to coincide with the coral's reproductive period. These findings demonstrate sustained phenological coordination within a tightly integrated symbiosis and underscore the importance of multi-decadal datasets in resolving ecological stability under environmental change.},
}

@article {pmid42095891,
year = {2026},
author = {Moukarzel, R and Ridgway, HJ and Waller, L and Guerin-Laguette, A and Cripps-Guazzone, N and Jones, EE},
title = {Root-derived AMF communities modulate growth and nutrient dynamics in grapevine rootstocks.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {36},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {42095891},
issn = {1432-1890},
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology/classification ; *Vitis/microbiology/growth & development/metabolism ; *Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development ; Soil Microbiology ; *Nutrients/metabolism ; Rhizosphere ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play vital roles in sustainable agriculture, yet evidence linking AMF community composition to plant benefits remains limited. To address this gap, we inoculated two commercial rootstocks (Schwarzmann and 5 C) with AMF communities recovered from different rootstocks from one site to determine effects on plant growth parameters and physiological responses. A glasshouse experiment using a 'home' and 'away' approach was designed to examine the interaction between rootstock variety and different AMF communities, including those from their own ('home') and other rootstocks' rhizosphere soils ('away'). Our results showed that rootstocks grown in their 'home' AMF communities exhibited greater above and below ground biomass compared to 'away' AMF communities, highlighting rootstock specificity in selecting AMF communities. AMF communities increased chlorophyll content and nutrient uptake (copper, boron) in grapevine leaves, where AMF communities dominated by Funneliformis sp., Ambispora sp. followed by Glomus spp. were associated with enhanced grapevine growth. This study enhances our understanding of community-level AMF-grapevine interactions and highlight the ecosystem services these fungi provide. Future research is needed using grafted plants to evaluate their response with different scions following AMF inoculation and to assess the effects of these AMF communities on berry biochemical composition.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology/classification
*Vitis/microbiology/growth & development/metabolism
*Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development
Soil Microbiology
*Nutrients/metabolism
Rhizosphere

@article {pmid42095931,
year = {2026},
author = {da Cruz, MO and Montoya, QV and de Sousa, RL and Pennachioni, GGP and Rodrigues, A},
title = {Unraveling Culturable Microfungal Communities Associated with Colonies of the Fungus-Farming Ant Mycetomoellerius urichii (Forel, 1893).},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00248-026-02776-5},
pmid = {42095931},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {2022/16087-7//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 2021/04706-1//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 2019/03746-0//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 001//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; 126804/2024-9//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; },
abstract = {Microfungal communities inhabit the fungus gardens of fungus-growing ants (Formicidae: Myrmicinae: Attini: Attina, the "attines") and may play cryptic yet important ecological roles within this symbiosis. While the diversity and composition of these microorganisms are relatively well characterized in leaf-cutting ant colonies, they remain poorly understood in non-leaf-cutting attine species, including Mycetomoellerius urichii. To address this gap, we investigated the microfungal communities in colonies of M. urichii using culture-dependent methods. Based on analyses of four independent molecular loci, we identified 94 microfungal species, with Trichoderma spirale, Syncephalastrum sp., and Cladosporium sp. as the most abundant taxa. Several of the microfungi found in this study have also been reported from leaf-cutting ant colonies. The microfungal communities were dominated by fungi exhibiting a multitrophic lifestyle (pathotroph-saprotroph-symbiotroph). Community composition showed considerable variation among colonies, with no consistent species co-occurrence patterns detected. Together, these findings provide the first community-level characterization of culturable microfungi inhabiting the fungus gardens of M. urichii and offer new insights into the microbial communities associated with the fungus-farming ant symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid42095936,
year = {2026},
author = {Andreu-Ardil, L and Guarnizo, ÁL and Navarro-Ródenas, A and Arenas, F and Pérez-Gilabert, M and Marqués-Gálvez, JE and Paolocci, F and Morte, A},
title = {Terfezia claveryi MAT locus characterization uncovers evolutionary insights about sexual reproduction of Pezizomycetes and reveals mating type dynamics in mycorrhizal plants.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {36},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {42095936},
issn = {1432-1890},
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/genetics/physiology ; *Genes, Mating Type, Fungal/genetics ; *Ascomycota/genetics/physiology ; Reproduction ; Phylogeny ; *Evolution, Molecular ; *Cistaceae/microbiology ; Symbiosis ; },
abstract = {Terfezia claveryi is a hypogeous fungus that forms desert truffles through ectendomycorrhizal symbiosis with Cistaceae plants in arid and semiarid environments. The study presented herein elucidates the organization and structure of the mating type (MAT) locus in this species and the spatio-temporal dynamics of T. claveryi strains in Helianthemum almeriense mycorrhizal plants and soil from nursery to field. MAT genes are the master loci controlling sexual reproduction and development in fungi. Our findings demonstrate that T. claveryi is a haploid and heterothallic species as its strains harbor and express either TcMAT1-1-1 or TcMAT1-2-1 genes as revealed by genome sequencing and RNAseq analyses. DNA-binding motifs located in their respective promoter regions appear to play a major role in the regulation of reproductive processes. The α-box and HMG-box domains are highly conserved along the Pezizomycetes and their strong structural similarity despite its poor sequence similarity supports a common evolutionary origin. Moreover, we set out a PCR-based approach to monitor the dynamics of T. claveryi strains of opposite mating type on mycorrhizal plants and soil. T. claveryi mycorrhizal plants at the nursery stage presented strains of both mating types, whereas a notable dominance of strains with the TcMAT1-1-1 gene was observed in field stage. Altogether, this research provides insights about genetic regulation and evolution of the MAT locus within the Pezizomycetes, and the reproductive biology of this important desert truffle, along with reliable markers to track the spatio-temporal distribution of strains of opposite mating types.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/genetics/physiology
*Genes, Mating Type, Fungal/genetics
*Ascomycota/genetics/physiology
Reproduction
Phylogeny
*Evolution, Molecular
*Cistaceae/microbiology
Symbiosis

@article {pmid42096271,
year = {2026},
author = {Shivaiah, KK and Rosset, SL and Quinn, RA},
title = {Microbe Profile: Durusdinium trenchii: a thermotolerant coral symbiont.},
journal = {Microbiology (Reading, England)},
volume = {172},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42096271},
issn = {1465-2080},
mesh = {Animals ; *Symbiosis ; *Anthozoa/physiology/microbiology/parasitology ; *Dinoflagellida/physiology/genetics/classification ; Coral Reefs ; *Thermotolerance ; Climate Change ; },
abstract = {Durusdinium trenchii is a unicellular dinoflagellate in the family Symbiodiniaceae, a diverse group of photosynthetic microalgae known for forming symbiotic relationships with cnidarians and other reef organisms. Notably, this species displays exceptional tolerance to heat stress, enabling it to persist within the coral gastrodermis and often dominate symbiont communities under elevated temperatures. D. trenchii can confer increased thermal tolerance and reduced bleaching susceptibility to corals, though frequently with trade-offs in host growth and calcification. Its resilience has been linked to genome duplication, photoprotective mechanisms and characteristic lipid profiles. Its unique molecular traits, host generalist nature, ecological flexibility and increasing prevalence in warming oceans underscore the importance of this microbe in coral reef responses to climate change.},
}

Animals
*Symbiosis
*Anthozoa/physiology/microbiology/parasitology
*Dinoflagellida/physiology/genetics/classification
Coral Reefs
*Thermotolerance
Climate Change

@article {pmid42096418,
year = {2026},
author = {Santini, AT and Cerqueira, AES and Moran, NA and Resende, HC and Santana, WC and de Paula, SO and da Silva, CC},
title = {Gut microbiota of Brazilian Melipona stingless bees: Dominant members and their localization in different gut regions.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {21},
number = {5},
pages = {e0326546},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0326546},
pmid = {42096418},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Animals ; Bees/microbiology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Brazil ; Symbiosis ; *Bacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {The gut microbiome of eusocial corbiculate bees, which include honeybees, bumblebees, and stingless bees, consists of anciently associated, host-specific bacteria that play crucial role in nutrition, pathogen defense and host fitness. While the core microbiota of honeybees and bumblebees is well characterized, the composition, spatial organization, and evolutionary dynamics of the microbiota of stingless bees remain poorly understood. This gap is particularly evident in the diverse genus Melipona, where Snodgrassella and Gilliamella, ubiquitous symbionts of honeybees and bumblebees, appear rare or absent, indicating a shift in microbiota composition in these stingless bees. Here, we address this gap by characterizing the microbiota of multiple Melipona species using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing of newly collected and previously published data from field-collected samples. We also mapped the spatial localization of the dominant microbiota members within the gut regions of Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides through targeted dissection. The Melipona microbiota is dominated by members of the genera Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Apilactobacillus, Floricoccus, and Bombella, with striking regional structure. Apilactobacillus and Bombella dominate in the crop, whereas Apilactobacillus and other members of the Lactobacillaceae are most abundant in the ventriculus. The ileum lacks Snodgrassella and Gilliamella but contains a putative new symbiont closely related to Floricoccus, as well as strains of Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillaceae (including Apilactobacillus), and Bombella. The rectum is dominated by Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. These findings reveal a distinct microbiota architecture in Melipona that differs from other corniculate bees yet retains compartment-specific specialization, suggesting an alternative symbiotic strategy that may reflect unique dietary ecology and evolutionary history. Understanding these patterns advances our knowledge of host-microbe symbiosis and provides a baseline for microbiome conservation in declining stingless bee populations.},
}

Animals
Bees/microbiology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Brazil
Symbiosis
*Bacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Phylogeny

@article {pmid42096550,
year = {2026},
author = {Xie, M and Xu, C and Xiang, N and Liao, T and Liu, X and Liu, Z and Feng, X and He, Q and Liang, Z and Wang, W and Dai, Y and Yan, L and Pogoreutz, C and Barra, L and Au, SWN and Jiang, L and Voolstra, CR and Luo, H},
title = {Trait-based signatures associated with persistence and thermal benefit in a genomically decayed coral probiotic.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wrag106},
pmid = {42096550},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {A key bottleneck in microbiome engineering is ensuring long-term host association of introduced microbes. Selecting probiotic candidates based on evolutionary genomic decay signatures of emerging host dependency offers a potential solution. The Ruegeria strain B4 of population MC10, identified by such signatures, showed persistent coral colonization in a companion study. Whether this persistence translates into measurable host benefit compared to other coral-associated Ruegeria strains, and which mechanisms underlie such benefit, remained unknown. Here we directly compare the probiotic efficacy of MC10-B4 against two sympatric Ruegeria strains isolated from the same coral colony and mucus compartment, controlling for host genotype and microenvironment. MC10-B4 inoculation significantly increased heat stress tolerance in the model cnidarian Aiptasia (Exaiptasia diaphana strain H2), outperforming both controls. To understand the mechanistic basis, we characterized the functional profile of MC10-B4 using integrated multi-omics. The MC10 genome is enriched in host-interaction genes, including siderophore-mediated iron acquisition and exopolysaccharide biosynthesis, confirmed phenotypically by iron scavenging and enhanced biofilm formation. Following exposure to coral tissue extract, MC10-B4 underwent a coordinated "motile-to-sessile" proteomic reprogramming, downregulating flagellar motor components whereas upregulating flagellin and biofilm regulators. This response was distinct from sympatric relatives, which instead mounted broad upregulation of nutrient acquisition systems. MC10-B4's functional profile, particularly its oxidative stress sensitivity, contrasts with traits favored in conventional probiotic screens. Our results provide mechanistic insight into traits associated with long-term host association and thermal benefit, validating an evolution-guided approach that prioritizes innate colonization potential over pre-defined laboratory functionalities for rational probiotic design.},
}

@article {pmid42096980,
year = {2026},
author = {Lintner, M and Golen, J and Schagerl, M and Wildner, M and Wanek, W and Cyran, N and Tyszka, J},
title = {Reversible bleaching of photobionts in marine protists to a chemical stress - A case study of Amphistegina lobifera.},
journal = {Journal of photochemistry and photobiology. B, Biology},
volume = {279},
number = {},
pages = {113454},
doi = {10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2026.113454},
pmid = {42096980},
issn = {1873-2682},
abstract = {Bleaching in symbiont-bearing organisms has been a topic of frequent discussion for years. The most prominent example in the marine environment is coral bleaching, which is associated with the loss of symbionts due to various environmental stressors. Other symbiont-bearing organisms that can be affected by bleaching include Foraminifera (protists). We investigated controlled bleaching in the foraminifera Amphistegina lobifera under laboratory conditions using the menthol/DCMU method to inactivate their obligate photobionts. Specimens were incubated for 35 days and regularly monitored by fluorescence, isotopic uptake, transmission electron microscopy, Pulse-Amplitude-Modulation Fluorometry, and visible and near-infrared spectroscopy. Symbiont metabolic activity decreased steadily with increasing incubation time. Although symbionts were inactive towards the end of the bleaching period, they were neither expelled nor degraded at the subcellular level. Reinoculation of bleached foraminifera with other algae was not possible. Instead, the bleached foraminifera and their original photobionts fully recovered after menthol/DCMU was no longer provided to the culture medium. These results suggest that bleaching cannot be equated to loss of photobionts in A. lobifera. Under the laboratory conditions provided, it is a reversible process, providing positive feedback that bleaching is also reversible under natural conditions if the organisms are only briefly in contact with the disruptive factor.},
}

@article {pmid42098022,
year = {2026},
author = {Baba, Y},
title = {[Esophageal Cancer and Gut Microbiome].},
journal = {Gan to kagaku ryoho. Cancer & chemotherapy},
volume = {53},
number = {3},
pages = {158-161},
pmid = {42098022},
issn = {0385-0684},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Esophageal Neoplasms/microbiology/therapy ; },
abstract = {The gut microbiota has recently garnered considerable attention across the medical field, as its involvement has been reported in a broad spectrum of conditions including cancer, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, and even neuropsychiatric disorders. The human body is composed of approximately 30 trillion human cells and an almost equal number of bacterial cells, forming a highly integrated symbiotic relationship. While the human genome encodes only about 20,000 genes, the gut microbiota harbors several million to tens of millions of genes, offering an overwhelmingly greater genetic repertoire. The composition of the microbiota is influenced by diet, lifestyle, medications, and aging, thereby shaping unique individual - specific patterns. Regional and temporal variations are also recognized, and functional redundancy among different bacterial taxa, known as"functional mimicry,"further underscores its flexibility. Thus, the gut microbiota should be regarded as a dynamic and modifiable ecosystem rather than a fixed entity, making it a promising target for disease prevention and therapeutic intervention. In the context of esophageal cancer, emerging evidence indicates that alterations in the microbiota may affect carcinogenesis, disease progression, and therapeutic responses. These insights highlight the potential of the microbiota as both a biomarker and a therapeutic target, and suggest that integrating microbiome research into clinical oncology could open new avenues for improving patient outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Esophageal Neoplasms/microbiology/therapy

@article {pmid42098336,
year = {2026},
author = {Ge, S and Yuan, K and Lei, M},
title = {The SPX protein family in plants: from phosphate sensors to multifunctional signaling hubs.},
journal = {Stress biology},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42098336},
issn = {2731-0450},
support = {32570313//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; U24A20385//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2025JCXK01//Hangzhou Normal University/ ; },
abstract = {Phosphorus (P) is an essential macronutrient for plant growth and development, yet its limited availability in soil severely constrains crop productivity. To cope with phosphate (Pi) deficiency, plants have evolved a sophisticated signaling network centered on SPX domain proteins, which serve as central regulators of Pi homeostasis. Recent breakthrough structural studies have revolutionized our understanding of these proteins, revealing their function as cellular Pi sensors through binding of the inositol pyrophosphate InsP8. This review synthesizes current knowledge of SPX protein molecular structures, evolution, and functions within the Pi signaling network. We detail their sensing mechanism, focusing on inositol pyrophosphate binding and the subsequent control of PHR activity and phosphate starvation response (PSR) gene expression. Recent cryo-electron microscopy structures of rice SPX1-PHR2, Arabidopsis PHO1;H1, and human XPR1 have provided unprecedented insights into phosphate transport mechanisms and SPX domain regulation. We also discuss emerging functions of SPX proteins in coordinating arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis, plant immunity, nitrogen-phosphorus balance, and cold stress responses, highlighting their broad significance in plant biology. Finally, we discuss key challenges and future research directions crucial for translating these mechanistic insights into innovative strategies to enhance phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) in crops, including structure-guided protein engineering approaches.},
}

@article {pmid42088931,
year = {2026},
author = {Miranda-Rius, J and Àlvarez, G and Blanc, V and León, R and Ramírez-Rámiz, A and Brunet-Llobet, L},
title = {Teaching Patients to Self-Care for Active, Recurrent Periodontal or Peri-Implant Pockets Guided by the TIME Wound-Healing Model: A Pilot Feasibility Study Based on Clinical and Microbiological Outcomes.},
journal = {Patient preference and adherence},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {596403},
pmid = {42088931},
issn = {1177-889X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The TIME therapeutic model is used for the management of chronic wounds: Tissue (non-viable); Infection/Inflammation; Moisture (imbalance); Edges (non-advancing). These four components will determine the persistence or the healing of any chronic ulcer on the skin's surface and, by analogy, also those of the ulcerated epithelium at the subgingival level. We aimed to evaluate the clinical and microbiological changes recorded after implementation of this personalized subgingival model.

METHODS: Twelve patients with active periodontal or peri-implant pockets were recruited for a feasibility study. Patients were instructed to deeply clean these lesions subgingivally using an angulated interdental brush in a vertical position, twice per day for 15 days. On the first and last days, Löe & Silness gingival index and bleeding on probing (BoP) were recorded and samples were collected using the brush head for the quantitative PCR analysis of 8 bacterial species (commensal and pathogenic).

RESULTS: Severe gingival inflammation with profuse bleeding was present at baseline in ten patients. Eight of them complied and adhered with 100% of the treatment. Following self-treatment at home, ten patients exhibited normal or mildly inflamed gums. Seven patients no longer had bleeding, four had slight bleeding and only one moderate bleeding. Microbiologically, the total bacterial load significantly decreased from 7E07 to 9.39E06 cfu/head.

CONCLUSION: This proposed conservative cost-effective subgingival model could significantly improve the inflammatory activity of certain recurrent periodontal or peri-implant pockets, stabilize them and thus minimize their progression. The preliminary findings reflected a reduction or absence of bleeding, a relative decrease in pathogenic species, and the restoration of a microbial community in symbiosis with the host.},
}

@article {pmid42089410,
year = {2026},
author = {Liao, W and Li, J and Guo, R and Xu, J and Whelan, J and Shou, H},
title = {Fatty Acid Desaturases GmROD1s Are Involved in Nodulation by Regulating the Flux of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70575},
pmid = {42089410},
issn = {1365-3040},
abstract = {Legume-rhizobia symbiosis requires induction of fatty acid (FA) biosynthesis, especially the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), as essential lipid and membrane components for nodulation. However, the regulation of PUFA homoeostasis remains poorly understood. Direct molecular and genetic evidence linking specific FA desaturation enzymes to this process is limited. Here, we investigated two soybean FA desaturation genes, GmROD1a/b, and provided their previously unrecognised roles in nodulation. Both were strongly induced during early rhizobial infection and remained highly expressed throughout nodule development. Overexpression significantly enhanced nodulation and plant growth, whereas disruption reduced nodule numbers. Transcriptomic analyses further revealed that GmROD1s promote PUFA accumulation and regulate genes associated with nodulation and nodule function, energy metabolism, membrane biogenesis, etc. We also identified two members of the WRINKLED family of transcription factors that are co-expressed with GmROD1 in rhizobia-infected roots and nodules. Further, promoter binding and transcription activation assays confirmed that GmWRI1 and the newly identified nodulation-associated factor, GmWRI3, directly promote GmROD1a/b expression, and overexpression of either transcription factor in soybean hairy roots significantly promoted nodulation. Together, our study uncovers a previously unappreciated role of ROD1 in nodulation, extending the functional role beyond FA desaturation. More importantly, we provide new molecular evidence linking nodulation to PUFA biosynthesis mediated by a previously unappreciated GmWRI1/3-GmROD1a/b regulatory module. Notably, the biological function of GmWRI3 in soybean has not been experimentally characterised. These findings establish a mechanistic connection between fatty acid metabolism and nodulation, offering potential targets for improving legume crop yields.},
}

@article {pmid42089607,
year = {2026},
author = {Rey, C and Toscani, AM and Nilsson, JF and Castellani, LG and Rocco Welsh, RE and Luchetti, A and Busche, T and Kalinowski, J and Torres Tejerizo, G and Pistorio, M},
title = {Comparative genomic analysis of Sinorhizobium meliloti LPU88: plasmid diversity and conjugative mechanisms.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0199625},
doi = {10.1128/aem.01996-25},
pmid = {42089607},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: In this study, we present a comprehensive genomic and comparative analysis of Sinorhizobium meliloti strain LPU88, highlighting the structure, function, and evolutionary dynamics of its plasmids. The complete genome sequencing revealed five replicons: a chromosome, two megaplasmids (pSymA-like pSmeLPU88c and pSymB-like pSmeLPU88d), and two accessory plasmids (pSmeLPU88a and pSmeLPU88b). Furthermore, the genome of LPU88 harbored a rich repertoire of mobile genetic elements, diverse replication modules, and unique gene clusters, reflecting its dynamic architecture. Strain LPU88 contained diverse conjugation systems distributed across its plasmids. Comparative analyses with other S. meliloti and Sinorhizobium medicae strains demonstrated the heterogeneous distribution of conjugative and regulatory elements, indicating variable evolutionary pressures among these plasmids. Besides, the mobilization of the pSymA-like plasmid pSmeLPU88c was mediated by a mating pair formation system encoded on the accessory plasmid pSmeLPU88a, reflecting the intricate mechanisms and evolutionary dynamics of horizontal gene transfer mediated by plasmids in Sinorhizobium. By integrating genomic sequencing, functional annotation, and comparative approaches, this work establishes LPU88 as a valuable model strain for understanding plasmid diversity, horizontal gene transfer, and symbiotic efficiency in rhizobia.

IMPORTANCE: Rhizobia are soil bacteria that establish symbiotic associations with legumes, converting atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia through biological nitrogen fixation, while the host provides nutrients. Among them, Sinorhizobium meliloti is one of the best-studied species. In this work, we compared the complete genomes of S. meliloti strains, including the laboratory model strain LPU88, with a particular focus on pSymA plasmids. Previous studies proposed that the pSymA plasmid could have been acquired through horizontal gene transfer. Analysis of their conjugation machinery revealed that all pSymA plasmids harbor a type II conjugation system, although in many cases the regulatory circuit required for activation was absent. In LPU88, we identified and characterized multiple conjugation systems, offering new insights into horizontal gene transfer in S. meliloti. Understanding these processes is essential for clarifying rhizobial evolutionary dynamics, improving the stability and efficiency of symbiotic interactions, and promoting their use as bioinoculants in sustainable agriculture.},
}

@article {pmid42089950,
year = {2026},
author = {Robinson, JM and Robinson, K and Barrable, A},
title = {Viewing ourselves as nature: Holobiont literacy influences nature connectedness.},
journal = {Ambio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42089950},
issn = {1654-7209},
abstract = {The human holobiont concept-humans as symbiotic assemblages of a host and trillions of microbes-offers a compelling lens for understanding human-nature relationships. This study examined whether: (a) prior holobiont knowledge correlates with nature connectedness, (b) exposure to holobiont information influences nature connectedness and (c) people feel more or less connected to microbes than to other natural entities. Using a randomised, blinded online survey (n = 190), participants were assigned to a holobiont treatment group (n = 91) receiving multimedia information or a control group (n = 99) receiving neutral content. Nature connectedness was measured before and after exposure. Results showed that prior holobiont knowledge was associated with higher nature connectedness, and, strikingly, that exposure to holobiont information significantly increased nature connectedness scores. No differences were found across nature types. These findings suggest that framing humans as holobionts may strengthen psychological connections to nature, with implications for environmental psychology, education and well-being.},
}

@article {pmid42090359,
year = {2026},
author = {Cui, S and Zhou, L and Zhu, N and Hu, K and Wang, F and Huang, X and Kong, F and Jin, D and Xiao, H and Liu, Y},
title = {Grass-Livestock-Fruit System Enhances Grape Health and Productivity by Regulating Leaf and Fruit Microbiota.},
journal = {Journal of agricultural and food chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jafc.5c17775},
pmid = {42090359},
issn = {1520-5118},
abstract = {The crop-livestock system is a sustainable agricultural model. Plant microbiomes play essential roles in host fitness and functionality. Here, the responses and functional roles of microorganisms in leaves and fruits were systematically investigated. Endophytic communities remained stable and predominantly beneficial, while epiphytic microorganisms responded more strongly to grass planting and sheep grazing. Grass planting increased the alpha diversity of epiphytic bacteria on leaves, while grazing enhanced the alpha diversity of epiphytic fungi, though both treatments reduced epiphytic bacterial richness on fruits. Grazing enriched potentially beneficial taxa, suppressed potential pathogens, and enhanced the bacterial metabolic potential and symbiotic fungal guilds. Correlations between microbial community variation and grape growth, health, and yield were stronger in leaves than in fruits, more pronounced for epiphytic than endophytic, and greater for bacteria than for fungi. Management simplified fruit and endophytic networks while increasing leaf epiphytic complexity. These findings reveal that microbiome-mediated mechanisms underpin the ecological benefits of integrated management.},
}

@article {pmid42091750,
year = {2026},
author = {Eroğlu, V and Eren Eroğlu, AE and Yaşa, İ},
title = {Genomic insights into Rhizobium anhuiense IY2 isolated from Trifolium caudatum root nodules.},
journal = {Functional & integrative genomics},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42091750},
issn = {1438-7948},
mesh = {*Trifolium/microbiology ; *Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology ; *Rhizobium/genetics/isolation & purification ; Symbiosis/genetics ; Phylogeny ; *Genome, Bacterial ; Nitrogen Fixation/genetics ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Nitrogen fixing Rhizobia play an important role in legume growth and sustainable agriculture, and genome based analyses have become essential for understanding the genetic basis of their symbiotic traits and functional potential. Here, Rhizobium anhuiense strain IY2 was isolated from the root nodules of the endemic legume Trifolium caudatum and characterized using 16 S rRNA and whole-genome sequencing. The genome, sequenced via the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform, spans 6,917,460 bp with approximately 6,900 predicted coding sequences (CDSs). Genomic analysis suggested the presence of various genetic determinants potentially linked to plant growth promotion, including those involved in iron acquisition, nitrogen metabolism, stress response, and auxin biosynthesis. While no CRISPR arrays were detected, two prophage regions were identified. Bioinformatic screening via the CARD database identified 47 AMR-related sequences, primarily comprising putative efflux systems and antibiotic targets rather than confirmed resistance determinants. The genome also harbors nod, nif, and fix gene clusters, indicating the genomic potential for symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF). Phylogenetic analysis of the nodC amino acid sequence supports a host-specific symbiotic relationship with Trifolium species. Notably, the presence of two distinct copies of the nodD gene suggests a potential for broad host range and strong symbiotic adaptability. This study provides the first genomic insights into the symbiotic association between a rhizobial species and T. caudatum, a legume endemic to Turkey.},
}

*Trifolium/microbiology
*Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology
*Rhizobium/genetics/isolation & purification
Symbiosis/genetics
Phylogeny
*Genome, Bacterial
Nitrogen Fixation/genetics
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid42083199,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, C and Zhang, Z and Bai, Y},
title = {Interpreting the asymmetric interaction between yeast and acetic acid bacteria in kefir grains from a metabolic perspective.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {235},
number = {},
pages = {119142},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.119142},
pmid = {42083199},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Kefir/microbiology ; *Kluyveromyces/metabolism ; *Acetic Acid/metabolism ; *Microbial Interactions ; *Acetobacter/metabolism ; Coculture Techniques ; Metabolomics ; Biofilms ; Food Microbiology ; Fermentation ; },
abstract = {As a naturally complex mixed microbial system, the intricate microbial interactions within kefir grains remain poorly understood, particularly regarding the relationships between yeasts and acetic acid bacteria. To elucidate the strain interaction mechanisms in kefir grains, this study systematically investigated the interactions between kefir-derived yeast (Kluyveromyces marxianus Y7) and acetic acid bacteria (Acetobacter fabarum A26) by integrating species-specific primer-based qPCR quantification, growth status analysis, biofilm formation, exopolysaccharide (EPS) measurement, and non-targeted metabolomics. The results demonstrated that co-culture established an asymmetric interaction pattern dominated by A26, with Y7 continuously adapting. Metabolomics and pathway enrichment analyses (KEGG) revealed that the interactions specifically activated core pathways such as ABC transporters, amino acid biosynthesis, and protein digestion and absorption. Dynamic changes in key metabolites elucidated their functional roles in the interaction: Y7 upregulated phenyllactic acid (as an antagonistic and signaling molecule) and hexylglutathione (antioxidant) in response to stress; the riboflavin secreted by Y7 may provide metabolic assistance to A26; the accumulation of (S)-2-hydroxyglutarate suggested energy metabolism remodeling in Y7; while the upregulation of 12-hydroxydodecanoic acid was associated with biofilm formation. This study is the first to discover a unique EPS metabolic cycle during co- culture: early synthesis followed by degradation, accompanied by the re-accumulation of sucrose, which constitutes a key internal carbon resource recycling strategy. In summary, from the perspective of metabolites and pathways, this research reveals that the two strains establish an efficient symbiotic metabolic system by defining functional roles, driving metabolic division of labor, and achieving resource cycling.},
}

*Kefir/microbiology
*Kluyveromyces/metabolism
*Acetic Acid/metabolism
*Microbial Interactions
*Acetobacter/metabolism
Coculture Techniques
Metabolomics
Biofilms
Food Microbiology
Fermentation

@article {pmid42083270,
year = {2026},
author = {Kelly, KH and Coleine, C and Coshland, C and Stajich, JE},
title = {Novel Glomeromycotina-moss associations identified in California dryland biocrusts.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71211},
pmid = {42083270},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {CA-R-PPA-211-5062-H//National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; DBI-1429826//Division of Biological Infrastructure/ ; DBI-2215705//Division of Biological Infrastructure/ ; S10-OD016290/RI/ORIP NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Drylands, which comprise c. 45% of Earth's land area, host biological soil crusts (biocrusts): symbiotic communities of cyanobacteria, fungi, algae, lichen, and bryophytes that stabilize soil and support key ecosystem functions. Moss-dominated biocrusts are particularly interesting due to their potential to illuminate ancient bryophyte-fungal interactions. To test the hypothesis that mosses in biocrusts host endophytic Mucoromycota fungi and that local climate influences the composition of these fungal communities, we conducted amplicon metabarcoding and microscopic surveys employing fungal staining across sites with varying aridity. We identified novel associations between mosses and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), with phylogenetic analyses revealing distinct fungal communities in moss biocrusts compared with adjacent bare soil. Intracellular branching by fungi resembling Glomeromycotina was observed within healthy Trichostomopsis australasiae (Bryophyta) cells. Moreover, shifts in AMF community composition across different aridity levels within the same moss species highlight the variation in moss-associated Glomeromycotina diversity, composition, and relative abundance. These findings provide critical insights into ancient bryophyte-fungal symbioses, potentially analogous to those enabling early land plant colonization during the Ordovician (c. 470 million years ago). They also underscore the need to understand and protect biocrust microbial communities as aridity intensifies under climate change.},
}