@article {pmid42847686,
year = {2026},
author = {Lane, KR and Meyer-Kaiser, KS and Collens, AB and Leal, CV and Collins, AG and Herrera, S and Hansel, CM},
title = {Deep-sea siliceous sponges harbor distinct and functionally diverse microbiomes.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0174726},
doi = {10.1128/aem.01747-26},
pmid = {42847686},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Sponges, phylum Porifera, are long-lived and basal-branching metazoans that play important roles in ocean biogeochemistry and host diverse microbial communities. Siliceous sponges form a major clade of the Porifera; however, their microbiome is not well characterized, particularly in the deep ocean. Here, we used shotgun metagenomics to investigate the composition of the microbial communities of 13 siliceous sponges collected from four sites near Puerto Rico from depths ranging from 400 to 1,900 meters. Nine of the sponges in this study are from five sponge families that have not previously been sequenced using shotgun metagenomics. We assembled a total of 176 metagenome-assembled genomes from 20 bacterial phyla and 1 archaeal phylum. Ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) Nitrosopumilaceae dominated most siliceous sponge microbial communities and was strikingly the sole symbiont associated with one sponge (Farrea). Overall, microbiome diversity was relatively low across siliceous sponges, except for a Phloeodictyidae, which is likely a high microbial abundance (HMA) sponge. Our results suggest that host sponge phylogeny may shape microbial community structure, with limited evidence for an environmental role. The sponge-associated microbial communities contained genetic capabilities for diverse metabolic functions, particularly contributing to the carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur cycles. In addition to the AOA, evidence of potential for microbial autotrophy was found through the presence of genes for RuBisCO, methanotrophy, and ATP citrate lyase. These results reveal both conserved relationships and metabolic flexibility across siliceous sponge lineages, suggesting unique evolutionary dynamics and demonstrating the importance of microbial metabolism to sponge host health and nutrient cycling in the oligotrophic deep ocean.IMPORTANCEMarine sponges, emerging ~600 million years ago, have close relationships with microorganisms, but the microbiome of deep-sea siliceous sponges is not well understood. Siliceous sponges play essential roles in deep-sea ecosystems by providing habitats for other metazoans and mediating carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur cycling; however, they remain some of the least-studied sponges. By shotgun sequencing DNA from 13 siliceous sponges collected near Puerto Rico, this study found that host sponge phylogeny is linked to microbial community composition and structure. Ammonia-oxidizing archaea dominated the microbial communities associated with marine sponges, likely playing key roles in utilizing metabolic byproducts and supporting host health. Other microbes also contributed to nutrient cycling and contained the potential to fix carbon, suggesting metabolic flexibility, which may benefit sponge hosts in low-resource environments. These findings emphasize the ecological importance of siliceous sponge-microbe symbioses and contribute to our understanding of the drivers shaping their structure and function.},
}

@article {pmid42848508,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, C and Manuse, S and Perrier, Q and Venkatasubramaniyan, S and Akherraz, H and Lodej, N and Ramos, CI and Zhang, M and Grangeasse, C and Razim, A and Leulier, F and Matos, RC},
title = {Host-triggered prophage induction drives Lactiplantibacillus plantarum symbiosis through bacterial lysis.},
journal = {Cell reports},
volume = {45},
number = {10},
pages = {118110},
doi = {10.1016/j.celrep.2026.118110},
pmid = {42848508},
issn = {2211-1247},
abstract = {The release of bacterial bioactive molecules across the gut barrier is a crucial yet poorly understood step in host-microbe communication. Here, we identify a phage-driven mechanism associated with this process in the beneficial symbiont Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NC8 (Lp[NC8]). We show that a stress-responsive prophage, pp2, undergoes activation and triggers holin-lysin-mediated bacterial lysis, leading to the production of infectious phage particles and increased extracellular recovery of bacterial vesicles carrying lipoteichoic acids. In a model of nutritional symbiosis, pp2-dependent lysis is required for Lp[NC8] to promote juvenile growth in undernourished Drosophila melanogaster. Disruption of prophage-mediated lysis impairs vesicle recovery and host growth promotion. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the copper cell region of the Drosophila midgut acts as a physiological trigger of prophage induction. Together, our findings link host intestinal physiology to prophage activity and bacterial lysis, revealing phage-driven lysis as a mechanism contributing to beneficial bacterial-host interactions during nutritional stress.},
}

@article {pmid42848823,
year = {2026},
author = {Teulet, A and Schornack, S},
title = {Type III effectors of symbiotic Rhizobia include diverse predicted transcriptional and post-transcriptional modulators.},
journal = {PLoS biology},
volume = {24},
number = {10},
pages = {e3004038},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pbio.3004038},
pmid = {42848823},
issn = {1545-7885},
abstract = {Rhizobia are soil bacteria that establish nitrogen-fixing symbioses with legumes. While many rhizobia use a Type III Secretion System to deliver "Nodulation Outer Protein" (Nop) effectors, some uniquely use these proteins to initiate nodule organogenesis, bypassing classical signalling. The molecular functions of these effectors remain largely unknown due to extreme sequence divergence. Using AlphaFold2-mediated structural proteomics, we identified a modular architecture in rhizobial effectors composed of 22 distinct structural units. We reveal that many Nop effectors are cryptic transcriptional or post-transcriptional regulators, harbouring unrecognised nucleic acid-binding modules and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase domains. Crucially, these modules are conserved in specific plant pathogens, such as gall-inducing Pantoea, where our predicted structural units align with experimentally validated DNA-binding domains. Furthermore, we discovered the BPN (B3 and PUA-like nucleic acid binding) domain as a structural mimic of plant B3-domain transcription factors, pointing to a direct mechanism for hijacking legume development. Our findings strongly suggest that rhizobia employ a modular domain-fusion strategy to act as direct genetic modulators, uncovering a conserved mechanism used by both symbionts and pathogens to hijack host developmental programmes.},
}

@article {pmid42849016,
year = {2026},
author = {Martignoni, MM and Bordenstein, SR and Karakoç, C and Tyson, RC and Brown, SP and Garnier, J},
title = {An eco-evolutionary consumer-resource theory of host-microbe symbioses.},
journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jeb/voag100},
pmid = {42849016},
issn = {1420-9101},
abstract = {Symbiotic associations between microorganisms and hosts are universal, diverse, and dynamic. Yet, our ability to represent this complexity mathematically remains limited. We propose extending consumer-resource theory to incorporate evolutionary processes to advance our understanding of symbioses, from pairwise interactions to complex host-microbe assemblages. The resulting eco-evolutionary framework captures feedbacks between host-microbe interaction structure, biotic resource availability, and selection acting across biological scales. Importantly, this approach relaxes the assumption of separated ecological and evolutionary timescales, so that both processes unfold simultaneously. The coupling between ecological and evolutionary dynamics allows key properties of symbioses, such as ecological dependence and functional integration, to emerge from evolving resource-mediated interactions, rather than being imposed a priori. We illustrate the framework with a mathematical model of mycorrhizal symbiosis. The proposed consumer-resource formulation provides a unified basis for linking ecological and evolutionary dynamics in host-microbe symbioses, with implications for both basic theory and applied management.},
}

@article {pmid42849780,
year = {2026},
author = {Dai, L and Liu, J and Jiang, N and Zhou, Y and Zhao, M},
title = {Nutritional flexibility of the Euwallacea interjectus-Fusarium populicola mutualism: Fungal physiology, beetle development, and insulin signaling.},
journal = {Journal of insect physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105074},
doi = {10.1016/j.jinsphys.2026.105074},
pmid = {42849780},
issn = {1879-1611},
abstract = {Ambrosia beetles thrive on nutritionally barren xylem through obligate mutualisms with fungi that translocate and concentrate essential elements from wood. However, the nutritional physiology of most beetle-fungus systems and the molecular responses of the beetle host remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the Euwallacea interjectus-Fusarium populicola mutualism through an integrated approach combining fungal nutritional assays, insect developmental bioassays, and transcriptional profiling of the insulin/insulin-like signaling (IIS) pathway. F. Populicola exhibited pronounced metabolic flexibility: On organic nitrogen, soluble sugars supported maximal growth, whereas on inorganic nitrogen, cellulose and sawdust outperformed soluble carbohydrates-A shift indicating that the fungus efficiently degrades lignocellulose when nitrogen form changes. Sporulation strategies also varied, with soluble sugars favoring macroconidia resting spore production and recalcitrant polymers promoting high conidial yields. Larval feeding bioassays demonstrated that fungal nutritional quality directly determines survival, pupation dynamics, and pupal weight, with organic nitrogen being indispensable for successful development. Semi-artificial diet experiments revealed that 5% NaNO3 maximized adult production, while higher concentrations arrested development, and phosphorus partially rescued nitrogen-induced growth suppression. Transcriptional profiling of 19 IIS genes showed stage- and tissue-specific expression patterns, with EiAKT upregulated only on optimal fungal diets, but these findings remain correlative due to the lack of protein-level validation. Collectively, our results demonstrate that F. Populicola acts as a 'translocator-accumulator' that converts woody substrates into a nutritionally complete diet, with beetle fitness tightly linked to fungal nutritional quality.},
}

@article {pmid42850393,
year = {2026},
author = {Biró, JB and Domonkos, Á and Güngör, B and Farkas, A and Mohammadi Eghbash, E and Kiss, GB and Kaló, P},
title = {Loss of Nod25 function does not affect nitrogen-fixing symbiosis in Medicago truncatula.},
journal = {Plant molecular biology},
volume = {116},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42850393},
issn = {1573-5028},
support = {2022-2.1.1-NL-2022-00005 and TKP-2021-EGA-05//KIM NKFIA/ ; 739593//EU's Horizon 2020/ ; K-132646 and K-150440//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; Highlighted research topic (454004)//HUN-REN Biological Research Centre/ ; },
mesh = {*Medicago truncatula/genetics/microbiology/metabolism/physiology ; *Symbiosis/genetics/physiology ; *Nitrogen Fixation/genetics/physiology ; *Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/genetics/metabolism ; Sinorhizobium meliloti/physiology ; Membrane Proteins ; },
abstract = {The formation of nitrogen-fixing symbiotic nodules is a complex process that involves extensive transcriptional reprogramming of legume roots to enable intracellular accommodation of host compatible rhizobia. This process requires coordinated regulation of hundreds to thousands of genes, including the induction of highly expressed genes, traditionally referred to as nodulin genes. While the functions of many nodulins have been elucidated, a substantial number remained poorly characterized, or their functions are still unclear. One such gene, NOD25, was originally identified based on differential hybridization between roots and nodules and is expressed at exceptionally high levels in Medicago nodules. MtNOD25-like proteins in IRLC legumes exhibit a repetitive modular structure flanked by conserved N- and C-terminal regions, with clade-specific repeat organization. To understand the role of NOD25 in symbiotic nitrogen fixation, we generated loss-of-function mutants in Medicago truncatula using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing. Four independent Mtnod25 mutant lines displayed normal growth under symbiotic conditions and showed no detectable defects in nodule colonization, symbiosome formation, or bacteroid differentiation. These results indicate that MtNOD25 is not essential for symbiosis in M. truncatula under the conditions tested. However, the biological function of MtNOD25 has not yet been elucidated, and its highly specialized evolutionary conservation suggests that it may have a specific, non-essential role in modulating or fine-tuning symbiotic processes under particular environmental or physiological conditions that remain to be defined.},
}

*Medicago truncatula/genetics/microbiology/metabolism/physiology
*Symbiosis/genetics/physiology
*Nitrogen Fixation/genetics/physiology
*Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/genetics/metabolism
Sinorhizobium meliloti/physiology
Membrane Proteins

@article {pmid42850929,
year = {2026},
author = {Osuji, IE and Akanmu, AO and Babalola, OO},
title = {Amplicon Characterization of Fungal Diversity and Functional Prediction of Glycine max L. Rhizosphere Microbiome Under Different Organic Fertilization.},
journal = {MicrobiologyOpen},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {e70437},
doi = {10.1002/mbo3.70437},
pmid = {42850929},
issn = {2045-8827},
support = {CRP/ZAF22-93//International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology/ ; },
mesh = {*Rhizosphere ; *Glycine max/microbiology ; *Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; *Soil Microbiology ; Animals ; *Fertilizers/analysis ; Cattle ; DNA, Fungal/genetics ; Manure/microbiology ; Biodiversity ; *Mycobiome ; Phylogeny ; Soil/chemistry ; DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; *Microbiota ; },
abstract = {The rhizosphere microbiome is extremely important for soil health and plant productivity, with fungi primarily acting as the drivers of soil ecosystem functions. This study explores the fungal diversity and predicted functional potential of the soybean (Glycine max L.) rhizosphere under different organic fertilization treatments, including cattle dung, poultry waste, untreated control, and bulk. Fungal communities were profiled using ITS rRNA gene amplicon sequencing on the Illumina NovaSeq. 6000 platform following DNA extraction from rhizosphere soil. Raw sequences were processed and analyzed using QIIME 2 version 2019.1. Significant differences in fungal richness were observed among treatments. Bulk soil and cattle dung-amended soils showed the highest richness (Chao1 = 1603.33 and 1456.64, respectively), whereas poultry waste-amended soil exhibited the lowest richness (Chao1 = 957.93) and the lowest evenness (Pielou's index = 0.560), and the untreated control showed intermediate richness (Chao1 = 1242.11). The dominant phyla include Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Zygomycota, with enrichment in organic matter degradation and plant symbiosis. Beta-diversity analysis showed the greatest compositional divergence between cattle dung and poultry waste (ANOSIM R = 0.74), none of the pairwise comparisons reached conventional statistical significance (p > 0.05), indicating ecologically relevant but statistically subtle shifts in community structure. LEfSe identified Hypocreales as a significant biomarker of cattle dung and Onygenales of poultry waste, consistent with FUNGuild predictions of enriched dung/wood-saprotrophic and keratinolytic functions, respectively. FUNGuild predictions showed increased saprotroph and symbiotroph diversity in organically amended soils. Organic fertilizers enrich beneficial fungi, enhancing ecosystem functions in sustainable soybean cultivation.},
}

*Rhizosphere
*Glycine max/microbiology
*Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
*Soil Microbiology
Animals
*Fertilizers/analysis
Cattle
DNA, Fungal/genetics
Manure/microbiology
Biodiversity
*Mycobiome
Phylogeny
Soil/chemistry
DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/genetics
Sequence Analysis, DNA
*Microbiota

@article {pmid42851078,
year = {2026},
author = {Doumbia, B and Luo, S and Yang, S and Wang, C and Jia, Y and Kuprin, AV and Geng, A and Zhu, D and Sun, J and Ezenwanne, BC and Xie, R and Dar, MA},
title = {Harnessing bacterial symbionts of beetles for the valorization of lignin into value-added byproducts: Recent advances and future perspectives.},
journal = {Insect science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/1744-7917.70378},
pmid = {42851078},
issn = {1744-7917},
support = {32250410285//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023YFC3403600//National Key R&D Program of China/ ; WGXZ2023020L//Foreign Expert Program, of Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) of China/ ; 124012400285-7//Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation/ ; },
abstract = {Lignin is the most abundant renewable aromatic heteropolymer in nature and is highly recalcitrant due to its complex structure. The gut systems of beetles function as an evolutionarily optimized microreactor wherein mechanical pretreatment, physicochemical gradients, and selectively maintained microbial consortia act synergistically to transform, mineralize, and metabolize lignin as an energy source. Beetle-associated bacterial symbionts represent a promising yet underexploited resource for lignin valorization into value-added products. This review provides emerging evidence of lignin degradation by beetles in association with their gut symbionts and indicates the diversity of gut bacteria involved in lignin depolymerization. We further discuss the mechanisms by which beetles and their gut bacteria metabolize lignin, the lignin-transforming capacities of the bacterial symbionts and their potential application in the valorization of waste lignin into added-value byproducts. Finally, we assess the emerging research trends on the bioprospection of lignin-degrading bacteria from underexplored beetle species. Despite significant advantages, several key challenges remain unresolved, including difficulties in isolation and culturing of key gut bacteria in vitro, limited biochemical validation of candidate enzymes and the unresolved linking of specific genes or taxa to in situ lignin transformation. Future studies should integrate discovery-driven microbial ecology, multi-omics, predictive modeling and precision genome engineering to convert the complexity of beetle gut bacterial communities into a practical blueprint for scalable lignin valorization, and the biomanufacturing of high-value products from lignin-based waste.},
}

@article {pmid42851465,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, WY and Chi, HR},
title = {Vulnerability and resilience in symbiotic interaction: a qualitative study on the lived experiences of rural older women in China.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1842419},
pmid = {42851465},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Resilience, Psychological ; China ; *Rural Population/statistics & numerical data ; Aged ; Qualitative Research ; Adaptation, Psychological ; Interviews as Topic ; *Vulnerable Populations/psychology ; Social Support ; Middle Aged ; *Symbiosis ; Aged, 80 and over ; },
abstract = {Against the strategic backdrop of comprehensively advancing rural revitalization and actively addressing population aging, rural elderly women represent a structurally vulnerable group whose living conditions and coping strategies warrant in-depth exploration. Existing studies pre-dominantly view them as passive recipients of assistance and interpret the relationship between fragility and resilience through a linear lens. Based on semi-structured in-depth interviews with 18 rural elderly women in Hakka rural areas of northeastern Guangdong, this study employs constructivist grounded theory to conduct three-level coding and develops an interactive "fragility-resilience symbiosis" model. The findings indicate first that the risks faced by this group arise from structural suppression resulting from the coupling of individual, familial, community, and cultural dimensions. The overlapping impacts of gender-based socialization, intergenerational outsourcing of maternal roles, and institutional neglect have deeply embedded fragility within local culture. Second, these women proactively cope by reconstructing cognitive frameworks, adjusting emotional support networks, and mobilizing social resources to sustain their daily lives despite structural constraints. Third, fragility and resilience are not opposing linear extremes but rather coexist and interweave amid repeated cycles of adaptation and disruption. Resilience is frequently attained at the expense of unrecognized, invisible labor. This research challenges the prevailing success-oriented narrative in resilience studies and redefines the agency boundaries of rural elderly women as constrained subjects. It advocates that relevant policies should transition from focusing solely on individual vulnerability assistance to prioritizing supportive system reconstruction, thereby offering a novel analytical framework for understanding the survival logic of vulnerable groups amidst rural social transformation.},
}

Humans
Female
*Resilience, Psychological
China
*Rural Population/statistics & numerical data
Aged
Qualitative Research
Adaptation, Psychological
Interviews as Topic
*Vulnerable Populations/psychology
Social Support
Middle Aged
*Symbiosis
Aged, 80 and over

@article {pmid42851877,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, J and Yang, L and Jacquemyn, H and Li, T and Yang, A and Wang, Y and Xing, X},
title = {Mycorrhizal specificity in orchids: a multidimensional filtering framework.},
journal = {Mycology},
volume = {17},
number = {3},
pages = {794-810},
pmid = {42851877},
issn = {2150-1203},
abstract = {Understanding how specificity emerges in mutualistic symbioses remains a central challenge in evolutionary ecology. In orchids, mycorrhizal specificity ranges from strict specialization to broad generalism. Although many orchids show low physiological specificity in vitro, natural populations associate with much narrower subsets of partners, indicating that realized specificity reflects constraints rather than compatibility alone. To provide a unified explanation and testable predictions for this discrepancy, we propose a multidimensional filtering framework that distinguishes physiological compatibility, representing the fundamental niche, from ecological filters that determine realized associations. Physiological compatibility, mediated by signal recognition and immune modulation, establishes the fundamental prerequisites for symbiosis. However, the transition to realized specificity is constrained by four hierarchical ecological filters. Phylogeny and biogeography first delineate the potential regional lineage pool, while local environmental heterogeneity restricts fungal availability. Subsequently, host-specific nutritional demands drive active partner selection, and interspecific competition enforces niche differentiation. This synthesis clarifies the observed discrepancy between fundamental and realized mycorrhizal niches and provides a conceptual foundation that may inform conservation strategies for endangered orchids through targeted ecological matching.},
}

@article {pmid42852207,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, J and Zhang, Y and Jin, Y and Ni, X and Lv, R and Liu, S and Wang, J},
title = {Geological Controls and Symbiotic Assemblage Models of Coal Measure Gas in the Shanxi Formation, Eastern Pingdingshan Mining Area, China.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {11},
number = {39},
pages = {58660-58675},
pmid = {42852207},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {Coal measure gas (CMG) is an important unconventional energy resource, and a clear understanding of its accumulation mechanisms is essential for effective exploration and development. This study investigates the coal measure strata of the Shanxi Formation in the eastern Pingdingshan mining area. An integrated approach combining geostatistical analysis, geochemical characterization, X-ray diffraction, and high-pressure mercury intrusion measurements, together with a Markov chain model, was employed to elucidate the accumulation framework and spatial organization of CMG systems. The results show that (1) the study area is characterized by a coal-mudstone-sandstone tripartite assemblage. The thickness of the main coal seam (No. 2-1) ranges from 0.65 to 12.42 m (average 5.50 m), thickening toward the central area and thinning toward the margins, and serves as the primary source rock. Mudstonethickness ranges from 5.66 to 89.91 m (average 39.67 m) in thickness and acts as an effective seal, whereas sandstone (ranging from 2.15 to 68.28 m, average 34.72 m) is preferentially developed in the central area and constitutes the main reservoir. (2) Source rocks exhibit high organic abundance and thermal maturity, whereas reservoirs typically exhibit low porosity and extremely low permeability. The coal seam exhibits a maximum vitrinite reflectance (R o,max) ranging from 1.106% to 1.651% (average 1.461%) and high organic matter abundance. Mudstone exhibits a total organic carbon (TOC) content ranging from 2.61% to 28.00% (average 9.34%) and is dominated by type III kerogen, indicating a mature to highly mature thermal evolution stage. Coal, mudstone, and sandstone reservoirs all display low porosity and extremely low permeability characteristics. (3) Based on the Markov chain analysis, five dominant lithofacies sequences were quantitatively identified, and three CMG accumulation patterns were recognized: single-source dual-reservoir, dual-source dual-reservoir, and dual-source multi-reservoir types. These results suggest that depositional environment exerts the primary control on the spatial differentiation of CMG accumulation patterns. This study provides a geological basis for integrated source-reservoir-seal assessment and sweet-spot prediction in CMG exploration.},
}

@article {pmid42841421,
year = {2026},
author = {Booth, NJ and Ramesh, SA and Soole, KL and Day, DA and Tyerman, SD},
title = {The symbiosome-localised aquaporin GmNOD26 functions as a non-selective monovalent cation channel capable of transporting NH4+ in heterologous systems.},
journal = {Plant & cell physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/pcp/pcag136},
pmid = {42841421},
issn = {1471-9053},
abstract = {Legumes have developed a symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria known collectively as rhizobia, which when present in root nodules fix atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by the plant. The functioning unit of symbiotic nitrogen fixation is referred to as the symbiosome and the membrane separating symbionts acts to regulate the metabolite exchange within the root nodule cells. The efflux of fixed nitrogen from the symbiosome is through an unidentified non-selective cation channel, which is inwardly rectified by cytosolic Mg2+ and has a preference for ammonium. Expression of Nodulin 26 (NOD26), a major component of the soybean symbiosome membrane, in Xenopus laevis oocytes reveals monovalent cation-induced currents. These currents display time- and voltage dependent characteristic similar to those previously observed in patch-clamp studies of the symbiosome membrane and exhibited an apparent monovalent cation preference of NH4+ > methylammonium (MeA+) ≥ K+ > Na+ ≥ C5H15NO+. GmNOD26-mediated currents in X. laevis oocytes were inhibited by divalent cations and inhibited by phosphorylation at serine 262. Together, these findings demonstrate that GmNOD26 functions as a non-selective cation channel capable of facilitating ammonium transport in nitrogen-fixing soybean nodules. Furthermore, pronounced inhibition of GmNOD26 by divalent cations provides as likely explanation for why monovalent cation-induced currents have not previously been characterised in GmNOD26-expressing X. laevis oocytes.},
}

@article {pmid42842926,
year = {2026},
author = {Paillan, EL and Gil-Polo, A and Guha, S and Swartley, A and Burghardt, LT},
title = {Natural genetic variation in rhizobia and alfalfa influence nodule shape and symbiotic performance.},
journal = {Journal of experimental botany},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jxb/erag464},
pmid = {42842926},
issn = {1460-2431},
abstract = {In many host-microbe symbioses, hosts develop specialized organs that house microbial symbionts. In legume-rhizobium symbiosis, these organs are called root nodules. While many studies have focused on host traits like plant growth, nodule number, and their structural changes, nodule morphology may influence rhizobial benefits (e.g., bacterial population size). Here, we investigated how variation in alfalfa nodule morphologies influences the fitness outcome of both partners. We used 117 strains and 3 alfalfa varieties to test how genetic variation influenced 1) nodule branch number, area, and rhizobial fitness at the individual nodule level and 2) the proportion of branched nodules, nodule number, and plant benefits at the whole plant level. In all tested hosts, larger or more branched nodules tend to release more rhizobia regardless of rhizobial strain, although baseline rhizobial fitness values differed across hosts. From the host perspective, the proportion of branched nodules was strongly negatively correlated with total nodule number and positively correlated with host benefit. Both host and strain genetic variation contributed to the proportion of branched nodules on a plant. Together, these results provide insight into host and rhizobial genetic contributions to nodule morphology and symbiotic outcomes, suggesting a novel direction for research in legume-rhizobium mutualism.},
}

@article {pmid42843003,
year = {2026},
author = {Tse, TW and Wong, THH and Tsang, LM},
title = {Protective benefit of sea anemone host to symbiotic palaemonid shrimps and predator-avoidance behaviours among palaemonid shrimps.},
journal = {Zoology (Jena, Germany)},
volume = {178-179},
number = {},
pages = {126353},
doi = {10.1016/j.zool.2026.126353},
pmid = {42843003},
issn = {1873-2720},
abstract = {In symbiotic relationships, protection is believed to be the primary benefit that symbionts obtain from a host. Palaemonid shrimps are of notable interest when examining marine symbiosis, with over 500 described species forming symbiotic associations with other macrofauna. Instead of maintaining close contact with the host, several symbiotic palaemonid shrimps were found to leave their host temporarily when disturbed, suggesting that they may not completely rely on host protection and possess abilities to evade predators. This study examined protection obtained by symbiotic palaemonid shrimps from sea anemone host. It compared survival and behavioural responses of symbiotic shrimps with different levels of host association to free-living shrimps in the presence of a predator. A selected model predator, juvenile giant grouper, was introduced to the aquarium to investigate the protective benefit offered by the bubble-tip anemone. The survivorship of all three symbiotic shrimps examined, Ancylocaris brevicarpalis, Ancylomenes holthuisi, and Ancylomenes venustus, was significantly increased when associated with the anemone host, even though the latter two species form a loose association with their host. In the anemone treatment, most of the symbiotic shrimps showed a 100% survival rate, while all free-living shrimps were consumed. The stinging cells of the anemone serves as the major protective function rather than the physical complexity of its structure because the synthetic anemone did not provide detectable protection to the shrimps. Swaying motion and remaining motionless were the predominant behaviours for symbiotic cleaner shrimps and symbiotic non-cleaner shrimp, respectively, in responses to the predator. The symbiotic shrimps exhibited fewer tail-flipping responses as compared to the free-living shrimps, suggesting that the dependency on host protection reduced the self-protective capability of symbiotic shrimps. The present study highlights the importance of the protective benefit offered by sea anemone host to both closely and loosely associated symbiotic shrimps and reveals differences in predator-avoidance behaviours among palaemonid shrimps.},
}

@article {pmid42843232,
year = {2026},
author = {Biţă, A and Scorei, IR and Mogoşanu, GD and Gheonea, DI},
title = {From boron symbiotaxis to symbiogenic nutrients: extending the concept of ecological essentiality.},
journal = {Journal of trace elements in medicine and biology : organ of the Society for Minerals and Trace Elements (GMS)},
volume = {98},
number = {},
pages = {127974},
doi = {10.1016/j.jtemb.2026.127974},
pmid = {42843232},
issn = {1878-3252},
abstract = {Nutritional science has traditionally interpreted the biological functions of nutrients according to their metabolic roles within the host organism. Microbiome-oriented concepts, including prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics, have substantially expanded this perspective by recognizing the biological importance of microbial communities. However, existing nutritional classifications remain largely centered on either the host or the microbiota, without explicitly considering the functional organization emerging from their continuous interaction. In this review, we propose the concept of symbiogenic nutrients (SNs) as a complementary functional classification of nutrients defined according to their demonstrated capacity to preserve, restore, or enhance host-microbiome functional organization (HMFO). Building upon the concepts of ecological essentiality and boron (B) symbiotaxis, we introduce a systems-oriented framework in which nutritional function is interpreted not only through direct metabolic activities or microbial modulation but also through preservation of the structural, communicative, ecological, and metabolic processes that collectively sustain functional symbiosis. To facilitate operational implementation, we propose explicit principles and criteria for the classification of SNs and illustrate their application using B as the first experimentally supported prototype. Current evidence indicates that B contributes to biological interface integrity, microbial communication, ecological regulation, and host metabolic integration, thereby fulfilling the proposed operational framework. The concept is further extended from individual SNs to symbiogenic compositions, interface-active compositions, and symbiogenic nutrition, as a systems-oriented nutritional strategy aimed at preserving HMFO. This framework provides new perspectives for healthy longevity, metabolic health, chronic inflammation, and precision nutrition, establishing a conceptual foundation for future interface-targeted nutritional interventions.},
}

@article {pmid42843905,
year = {2026},
author = {Prithiv Sivaji Dorai, A and Hoffmann, AA and Gu, X and Umina, PA and van Rooyen, A and Thia, JA},
title = {Novel transinfections of Rickettsiella across multiple clonal genotypes are compatible with chemical and entomopathogen control of Myzus persicae.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toag304},
pmid = {42843905},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {UOM1906-002RTX//Grains Research and Development Corporation/ ; UOM2404-006RT//Grains Research and Development Corporation/ ; ST23002//Hort Innovation Australia/ ; //The University of Melbourne/ ; },
abstract = {Symbiotic bacteria are of increasing interest as new, alternative biological control candidates for managing insect pests. Previous work has found that a novel, self-spreading, transinfection of the endosymbiont, Rickettsiella viridis, can induce fitness costs in the globally invasive aphid pest, Myzus persicae (Sulzer). Endosymbiont transinfections could be used in broad scale management if they do not interfere with other common control options that are compatible with integrated pest management at local scales. In this work, we studied the effect of a novel Rickettsiella transinfection on chemical and entomopathogen responses in M. persicae. Our experiments used 4 different clonal genotypes that varied in their resistance to chemical insecticides, allowing us to capture the potential genetic variability in the response of aphid hosts to the Rickettsiella infection. These aphid genotypes were exposed to 3 chemical insecticides registered for aphid control in Australian agriculture (bifenthrin, a pyrethroid; dimethoate, an organophosphate; and imidacloprid, a neonicotinoid), as well as the fungal entomopathogen, Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo). Mortality following chemical insecticide exposure varied considerably among aphid genotypes but was unaffected by the Rickettsiella infection. Mortality and fecundity following fungal entomopathogen exposure exhibited interactions between genotype and Rickettsiella infection status, with some possible transgenerational effects. However, there was no evidence that the efficacy of Beauveria was compromised by Rickettsiella. These results support the potential for the general use of Rickettsiella as a biological control agent, which could be released into natural populations as part of area-wide strategies to establish infections and suppress pest populations.},
}

@article {pmid42845486,
year = {2026},
author = {De Santiago, A and Han, MK and Hargadon, SB and Marcellino Barros, M and Brito De Jesus, S and Pereira, TJ and Bik, HM},
title = {Marine nematodes exhibit widespread symbiosis, novel chemoautotrophy, and evolutionary conservation of holobiont taxa.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.08.12.744518},
pmid = {42845486},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Microbial symbioses drive the evolutionary and functional diversification of eukaryotic clades, from single-celled protists to large invertebrates. However, our knowledge of host-associated assemblages (the "holobiont") is limited in microscopic animal phyla with a body size <1mm, due to practical challenges such as low biomass and difficult taxonomy of host species. Marine nematodes represent an ideal case study for rapidly advancing our knowledge of bacterial-animal symbioses, representing a globally abundant invertebrate group with strong links to terrestrial and model organism species within the same phylum. Here, we sequenced the holobionts of 220 marine nematodes and generated 815 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) of host-associated bacteria/archaea. Our data indicates that 20-34% of marine nematodes harbor an obligate intracellular symbiont, often with multiple endosymbionts co-occurring within the same host. Three bacterial phyla (Pseudomonadota Bacteroidota, and Verrucomicrobiota) account for three-quarters of all nematode-associated MAGs, and the majority of these holobiont MAGs represent deeply divergent lineages in the prokaryotic tree of life. The Flavobacteriaceae (a core microbiome taxon in C. elegans and other terrestrial nematodes), were consistently recovered across phylogenetically diverse marine nematode lineages, suggesting evolutionary conservation of holobiont taxa across marine and terrestrial environments. We also report a novel chemoautotroph family (Ca. Thionematobacter) recovered from nematode hosts in both deep-sea and shallow-water habitats, and report the first confirmed instance of Cardinium endosymbionts from marine invertebrates. Finally, ∼65% of nematode-associated MAGs are able to degrade chitin, via hexosaminidase, implying that benthic invertebrate holobionts make significant contributions to global carbon cycling. These results underline the importance of evaluating symbiosis in microscopic marine invertebrates, and accelerating our understanding of animal evolution and ecosystem dynamics in vast benthic habitats.},
}

@article {pmid42846748,
year = {2026},
author = {Locke, AM and Ortiz, AC and Sikes, TR and Gold, NL and Ramirez, ME},
title = {Rhizobia bacteroid transcription helps to coordinate the soybean nodule drought response.},
journal = {AoB PLANTS},
volume = {18},
number = {5},
pages = {plag044},
doi = {10.1093/aobpla/plag044},
pmid = {42846748},
issn = {2041-2851},
abstract = {Soybean (Glycine max L. [Merr.]) nitrogen fixation is sensitive to soil drying and is an important target for improving soybean drought resilience. Transcriptional regulation of the nodule drought response and the influence of symbiotic rhizobia are not well understood. We measured whole-plant responses to mild and moderate soil moisture deficit (41% and 20% of field capacity) alongside the nodule transcriptome, including soybean and Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens transcripts, in two soybean genotypes ('Benning' and PI 471938) that were previously found to have diverging nitrogen fixation drought responses. The transcriptomes of the two genotypes responded very similarly to soil moisture deficit, with only eight genes responding to soil moisture deficit differently between genotypes. Mild soil moisture deficit reduced stomatal conductance and increased stem and petiole ureide while altering transcript abundance of genes involved in nitrogen assimilation-related pathways in both plant genotypes and in the bacteroid. Gene regulatory network inference identified two B. diazoefficiens loci, BAC49768 and BAC47090, as major regulators in the whole-nodule transcriptome during soil moisture deficit. Several soybean network nodes were located within quantitative trait loci previously associated with relevant drought responses. This work revealed new soybean and rhizobia candidate genes with important roles in the soybean nodule drought response.},
}

@article {pmid42846959,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Z and Li, Q and Li, X and Wang, Z and Wu, X},
title = {Dual-brain fusion: Bidirectional empowerment between human brain and brain-inspired systems.},
journal = {Fundamental research},
volume = {6},
number = {5},
pages = {3529-3543},
doi = {10.1016/j.fmre.2026.03.020},
pmid = {42846959},
issn = {2667-3258},
abstract = {Artificial intelligence (AI) is fundamentally reshaping societal futures, with its transformative applications driving profound, cross-sectoral change. From surgical robots that enhance medical precision and safety to autonomous vehicles that reconfigure transportation ecosystems, AI is accelerating social progress at an unprecedented pace and scale. Yet current AI technologies face persistent foundational challenges: overreliance on static, context-insensitive rules; limited capacity for dynamic, real-world simulation; and representation models that lack depth and integrative coherence. These limitations constrain adaptability in non-stationary environments, hinder the emergence of holistic intelligence, and obscure the mechanistic essence of true intelligence, constituting a critical barrier to artificial general intelligence (AGI). Dual-Brain Fusion, the deep, bidirectional synergy between the human brain and brain-inspired systems, represents the essential pathway to overcoming this barrier. As nature's most sophisticated intelligent system, the human brain offers fundamental insights for brain-inspired research through its capacities for multimodal perception, adaptive cognition, and goal-directed decision-making. Although existing research has advanced perception optimization, cognitive enhancement, and decision-making improvement, it remains constrained by a single-layer simulation paradigm of brain functions, incomplete understanding of neural functional mechanisms, and the absence of engineered bidirectional interaction between the two systems. To address these challenges, this paper proposes leveraging the human brain's perceptual, cognitive, and decision-making functional mechanisms as a unifying bridge, breaking down interdisciplinary barriers to construct a full-chain collaborative innovation paradigm centered on Dual-Brain Fusion, which enables mutual inspiration between the human brain and brain-inspired systems. Within this framework, brain-inspired systems are optimized using principles derived from human brain mechanisms, while empirical feedback from these systems informs refined analysis of brain functional mechanisms, establishing a closed loop of bidirectional empowerment. Looking ahead, the continued advancement of Dual-Brain Fusion will catalyze an intelligence leap grounded in brain functional mechanisms. This paradigm, anchored in brain mechanisms as a source of principled inspiration, drives AI breakthroughs at the level of intelligence itself, unlocks synergistic human-machine co-adaptation, and charts a developmental path toward human-machine symbiosis and co-evolution.},
}

@article {pmid42847282,
year = {2026},
author = {Stévenne, C and Ferrier-Pagès, C and Grover, R and Plumier, JC and Roberty, S},
title = {Nitrogen-Dependent Regulation of Nitrate Reductase in Coral Symbioses.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wrag260},
pmid = {42847282},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {The nutritional symbiosis between corals and their photosynthetic dinoflagellate partners underpins the ecological success of reef-building corals in nutrient-poor environments. Although coral holobionts can assimilate the abundant yet highly variable environmental nitrate, direct insight into how nitrate reductase is regulated in these symbiotic algae has been lacking. Here, nitrate reductase protein abundance and gene expression were characterized in cultured Symbiodiniaceae exposed to different nitrogen regimes and light conditions, revealing the multifactorial nature of its regulation. The results indicate that nitrate reductase behaves as a substrate-induced enzyme: nitrate stimulates protein synthesis in nitrogen-starved cultures, whereas ammonium actively suppresses its expression in a concentration-dependent manner. Light availability and photosynthetic electron transport further modulate protein abundance, suggesting that although nitrate reductase synthesis depends on nitrate availability, its stability may rely on photosynthesis. In hospite, nitrate reductase is synthesized within hours of nitrate exposure by symbionts from nitrogen-starved corals, indicating that nitrate reduction can occur within the host environment. However, this response is transient and reduced relative to free-living cells, suggesting that nitrate reduction may function as a facultative pathway activated when preferred nitrogen sources become limited. Finally, gene expression measurements and pharmacological inhibition experiments are consistent with predominant post-transcriptional regulation of nitrate reductase protein expression, enabling rapid and reversible control of nitrate assimilation. Together, these findings describe a tightly regulated and responsive nitrate reduction system in coral symbionts that provides a flexible mechanism contributing to nitrogen homeostasis under fluctuating nutrient regimes.},
}

@article {pmid42836559,
year = {2026},
author = {Keller, TT and Cleveland, CC and Heumann, RE and Link, AC and McGuire, LT and Turner, MG},
title = {Nitrogen dynamics 35 years after stand-replacing fire: Aboveground pools grow as surface soil pools remain unchanged.},
journal = {Ecology},
volume = {107},
number = {10},
pages = {e70546},
pmid = {42836559},
issn = {1939-9170},
support = {DEB-2027261//National Science Foundation/ ; DEB-2027263//National Science Foundation/ ; //University of Wisconsin Vilas Trust/ ; },
mesh = {*Soil/chemistry ; *Nitrogen/chemistry/metabolism ; *Pinus/physiology ; *Fires ; Time Factors ; *Wildfires ; Forests ; Biomass ; Trees ; },
abstract = {Natural disturbances induce variable recovery pathways, and long-term studies are key to understanding how that variability affects ecosystem function over time and across space. In subalpine forests, high-severity wildfires produce high variability in postfire tree density, but how this variability relates to nitrogen (N) cycling remains unclear. We resampled lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia) stands 35 years after stand-replacing fire and asked (1) how N concentrations, pools, and mineralization changed with increasing lodgepole pine biomass from 15 to 35 years postfire; (2) how N concentrations, pools, and rates of change varied across the gradient of early postfire stand density; and (3) whether among-stand structure and function were converging over time. Vegetation, forest floor litter, downed coarse wood, surface mineral soil (0-15 cm), and resin-sorbed N were measured in fourteen 0.25-ha plots in Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, USA). From 25 to 35 years postfire, average total aboveground N pools increased from 252 to 405 kg N ha[-1]. Over the same 10-year period, soil N pools averaged 986 kg N ha[-1] and did not change, resin-sorbed soil N remained low, and the only common symbiotic N-fixing plant in the plots (silvery lupine, Lupinus argenteus) remained sparse. Aboveground lodgepole pine biomass increased at similar rates from 15 to 25 and 25 to 35 years postfire (2.5 and 2.2 Mg ha[-1] year[-1], respectively) along with N pools (4.6 and 3.8 kg N ha[-1] year[1]) and forest floor litter N (1.2 and 2.2 kg N ha[-1] year[1]). Among stands 35 years postfire, total aboveground N varied threefold (212-638 kg N ha[-1]) and was positively correlated with lodgepole pine aboveground net primary productivity and biomass but unrelated to stem density. Soil N pools ranged from 570 to 1668 kg N ha[-1] and were negatively correlated with lodgepole pine stem density but unrelated to tree productivity or biomass. Among-stand variation in stem density remained high but declined over time while N pools became less variable even as pools increased and variability in tree productivity increased from 25 to 35 years postfire. Rapid tree growth and biomass accumulation strongly regulate the N cycle in 35-year-old lodgepole pine stands, but sources of recovered N remain unresolved.},
}

*Soil/chemistry
*Nitrogen/chemistry/metabolism
*Pinus/physiology
*Fires
Time Factors
*Wildfires
Forests
Biomass
Trees

@article {pmid42836617,
year = {2026},
author = {Smith, S and Septer, A},
title = {Draft genome sequences of two Vibrio jasicida strains isolated from the Atlantic brief squid Lolliguncula brevis.},
journal = {Microbiology resource announcements},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0096326},
doi = {10.1128/mra.00963-26},
pmid = {42836617},
issn = {2576-098X},
abstract = {We report draft genome sequences of two Vibrio jasicida strains, LB10LO4 and LB14LO7, cultured from tissues of the Atlantic brief squid Lolliguncula brevis in Bogue Sound, North Carolina, USA.},
}

@article {pmid42837257,
year = {2026},
author = {Gao, Y and Cai, T and Wang, X and Nadal-Jimenez, P and Li, C and Su, C and He, S and Li, J and Wan, H},
title = {Bacterial endosymbiont suppresses detoxification through folate-mediated DNA methylation in Nilaparvata lugens.},
journal = {Cell reports},
volume = {45},
number = {10},
pages = {118103},
doi = {10.1016/j.celrep.2026.118103},
pmid = {42837257},
issn = {2211-1247},
abstract = {Symbiont-derived metabolites can regulate host physiology, but how they affect xenobiotic detoxification remains poorly understood. Here, we provide evidence that the endosymbiont Arsenophonus nilaparvatae increases insecticide susceptibility in Nilaparvata lugens through a folate-associated DNA methylation pathway. Specifically, A. nilaparvatae enhances folate biosynthesis through metabolic complementation with host alkaline phosphatase, while folate supplementation reduces P450 expression and monooxygenase activity. Metabolomics reveals an increased ratio of S-adenosylmethionine to S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAM/SAH). Consistent with this shift, symbiont infection and folate treatment are accompanied by increased NlDNMT3 expression and global 5-methylcytosine (5mC) levels. Moreover, genome-wide and targeted bisulfite analyses identify increased promoter-associated methylation at NlCYP6ER1, coinciding with reduced transcription. Importantly, inhibiting DNA methylation partially reverses these molecular and phenotypic effects. Finally, folate-associated sensitization is observed with high-folate transgenic rice and in other tested insects. Together, these findings support a symbiont-folate-DNA methylation axis regulating host detoxification and suggest folate metabolism as a potential target for insect control.},
}

@article {pmid42838452,
year = {2026},
author = {Melkikh, AV},
title = {Deceptive simplicity and law-governed symbiosis: a critical mini-review of the mechanisms underlying the emergence of multicellular organisms.},
journal = {Bio Systems},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105983},
doi = {10.1016/j.biosystems.2026.105983},
pmid = {42838452},
issn = {1872-8324},
abstract = {The mechanisms underlying the evolutionary emergence of multicellular organisms are examined from a systems perspective. The key parameter of this evolution is complexity, both of individual cells and of the multicellular organism. The main problems of cell integration are examined, such as genome integration and the coordination of the functioning of immune and transport systems. As a result, the emergence of a multicellular organism from any unicellular organism is an unattainable task for random mutations and selection. The concept of regulated symbiosis is proposed as a mechanism for the formation of a multicellular organism. The problem of the origin of multicellularity is also examined from the perspective of systems theory. This perspective allows us to understand the most general problems concerning the origin of multicellular organisms. As a mechanism for implementing regulated symbiosis, immanent laws of form generation are proposed, realized through hidden variables in quantum mechanics.},
}

@article {pmid42838567,
year = {2026},
author = {Methou, P and Mathieu-Resuge, M and Michel, LN and Cueff-Gauchard, V and Watanabe, HK and Cowell, EJ and Copley, JT and Beinart, RA and Zbinden, M and Pradillon, F and Cambon, MA and Chen, C},
title = {Correction to: 'Evolutionary convergence and trophic diversity in hot vent and cold seep shrimps showcase a continuum of symbiosis' (2026), by Methou et al.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {293},
number = {2080},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2026.2069},
pmid = {42838567},
issn = {1471-2954},
}

@article {pmid42839778,
year = {2026},
author = {Nogueira, JCC and Ribas, LPS and Moura, R and Boldori, JR and Garcia, AP and Amaral, KR and Smaniotto, FA and Emanuelle, T and Denardin, CC},
title = {Combined effects of kombucha consumption and aerobic exercise on oxidative stress and metabolic parameters in Wistar rats.},
journal = {Journal of the science of food and agriculture},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jsfa.71108},
pmid = {42839778},
issn = {1097-0010},
support = {//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - Brasil (CAPES) - Finance Code 001 and Unipampa for partial financial assistance to carry out this work./ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Kombucha, a fermented tea containing symbiotic bacteria and yeast, and aerobic exercise each confer distinct health benefits, but their combined effects remain poorly understood. This study investigated the combined effects of consuming kombucha fermented for 7 days and performing moderate aerobic exercise on physiological outcomes in Wistar rats.

METHODS: Sixty animals were divided into six groups (n = 10 per group): control (saline); K1 (1 mL/100 g/day kombucha); K2 (2 mL/100 g/day kombucha); exercise (EA); and combined treatment (K1 + EA, K2 + EA) for 4 weeks.

RESULTS: Exercise alone reduced body weight, retroperitoneal fat, and triglyceride levels. Combining kombucha with exercise enhanced antioxidant activity in the brain and reduced lipid peroxidation, exceeding the effects observed with either intervention alone. Kombucha independently modulated the intestinal microbiota, increasing short-chain fatty acid production. These findings suggest three potentially important interactions: (i) the metabolic benefits of exercise are maintained with kombucha co-administration; (ii) kombucha may potentiate exercise-induced neuroprotection against oxidative stress; and (iii) kombucha maintains its prebiotic effects regardless of exercise.

CONCLUSION: Overall, these findings suggest a potential interaction between kombucha consumption, aerobic exercise, intestinal fermentation, and cerebral oxidative stress, warranting further investigation of the underlying gut-brain mechanisms. © 2026 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid42832478,
year = {2026},
author = {Calzada, D and Martín-López, L and Carnés, J},
title = {Genetic and microbiomics approaches allow the monitoring of the growth of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus cultures and their environmental influences.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {21},
number = {10},
pages = {e0359777},
pmid = {42832478},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Animals ; *Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus/growth & development/microbiology/genetics ; *Microbiota ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; },
abstract = {Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus is cultured in industrial facilities to produce allergen extracts for allergy diagnosis and therapeutic treatment. In these facilities, mite growth and production should be monitored, and exhaustive quality control is mandatory to harvest mites, reach optimal expansion, and avoid potential microbial contamination. In this study, we explored genetic approaches to monitor the growth of five independent D. pteronyssinus cultures. Microbiological studies were performed to characterise the evolution of microbial communities during culture. Finally, we designed a qRT-PCR application to quantify mite populations in the cultures. Our microbiome studies revealed the presence of non-pathogenic bacteria and the absence of Gram-negative bacteria. Despite the variability in microbiome genera at the beginning of the five cultures, the microbiome composition tended to be more homogeneous among the culture batches as mite growth progressed. Specifically, Staphylococcus sp., Virgibacillus sp., and Malassezia sp. appeared to be the most significant taxa involved in culture progression. In summary, we developed a specific method for quantifying and monitoring mite cultures, which could be used to establish an objective method for harvesting mites to manufacture standardised allergen extracts. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive description of the relationship between mites and their symbiotic microorganisms.},
}

Animals
*Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus/growth & development/microbiology/genetics
*Microbiota
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics

@article {pmid42832880,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, Q and Huang, H and Meng, Y and Lin, X and Wu, Y and Xiong, L and Duan, X and Chen, H and Xue, G},
title = {Transforming anaerobic granular sludge into a symbiotic system with aerobic granular and floc sludge: Self-assembly and niche differentiation of simultaneous nitrification and denitrification.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {308},
number = {Pt C},
pages = {127062},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.127062},
pmid = {42832880},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) facilitates simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND) but suffers from protracted start-up and instability. Meanwhile, the synergistic nitrogen removal mechanisms between AGS and its disintegration-derived flocculent sludge (FS) remain unclear. In this study, sieve-enclosed anaerobic granular sludge (AnGS) was inoculated into a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) and transformed into an AGS-FS symbiotic system. This system achieved up to 80.17% total nitrogen (TN) removal and maintained TN removal as high as 78.05% when treating authentic wastewater. Spatial dissolved oxygen (DO) differentiation contributed to the functional differentiation of AGS and FS, favoring denitrification in AGS and nitrification in FS. External carbon was partially sequestered as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) within AGS, creating a low-carbon environment favorable for nitrification and subsequently supporting endogenous denitrification. Microbial analysis revealed spatially differentiated nitrogen removal potentials. AGS enriched denitrification-associated genera (Diaphorobacter, Denitratisoma, and Hydrogenophaga), accompanied by the enrichment of nirK/S, norB/C, and nosZ, whereas FS enriched Nitrospira and Paracoccus associated with nitrification potential and SND-related functions, accompanied by nxrA/B enrichment. Regarding carbon metabolism, AGS exhibited enrichment of genes involved in the phosphotransacetylase-acetate kinase (PTA-ACK) pathway, tricarboxylic acid (TCA), and glyoxylate cycles, potentially supporting energy metabolism and PHAs storage for denitrification. Conversely, FS was primarily associated with carbon metabolism supporting energy supply for nitrification. This study elucidates the cooperative nitrogen removal mechanisms in AGS-FS symbiosis formed by AnGS inoculation, offering a robust strategy for biological nitrogen removal.},
}

@article {pmid42832884,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, BB and Wang, X and Guo, JS and Chen, YP and Yan, P},
title = {A 3D-printed algal-bacterial microreactor for photobiological hydrogen production coupled with actual wastewater treatment.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {308},
number = {Pt C},
pages = {127071},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.127071},
pmid = {42832884},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Microalgae-driven photosynthetic hydrogen production has emerged as a promising approach to tackle the global energy crisis and reduce carbon emissions. Simultaneously, microalgae can remove phosphorus and nitrogen from wastewater while sequestering CO2 during hydrogen production. However, challenges such as the intrinsic oxygen sensitivity of hydrogenases and the relatively low hydrogen productivity remain major hurdles that constrain the process viability of microalgae for combined wastewater treatment and hydrogen production. A 3D-bioprinted algal-bacterial microreactor (ABMR) with a core-shell structure was constructed for simultaneous actual wastewater treatment and photobiological hydrogen production. 3D bioprinting was employed to achieve precise spatial segregation of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii in the core and Shewanella sp. in the shell, thereby promoting hydrogen production. The ABMR achieved effective pollutant removal (COD 98.3 %, TN 95.7 %, TP 94.0 %) and a cumulative hydrogen yield of 1681.5 μmol H2/mg Chl. Metabolomics revealed that algal-bacterial symbiosis promoted [Fe-Fe]-hydrogenase (HydA) maturation, strengthened photosynthetic carbon fixation, and activated pyruvate metabolism to supply additional electrons. Interspecies AI‑2 signalling and the stringent response regulator ppGpp were upregulated, enhancing metabolic coordination. The ABMR fixed CO2 at 53.8 g/(L·d) and achieved a net carbon emission of only -0.21 kg CO2/m[3], substantially lower than conventional processes such as A/A/O and oxidation ditch. This study demonstrated that the 3D‑printed algal‑bacterial microreactor is a promising green platform integrating wastewater treatment, renewable hydrogen generation, and carbon reduction.},
}

@article {pmid42833187,
year = {2026},
author = {Medina, M},
title = {Mónica Medina.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {36},
number = {19},
pages = {R1008-R1009},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2026.07.069},
pmid = {42833187},
issn = {1879-0445},
mesh = {Animals ; History, 21st Century ; History, 20th Century ; *Marine Biology/history ; *Anthozoa/microbiology/physiology ; Symbiosis ; },
abstract = {Mónica trained as a marine biologist at the University of Miami and completed postdoctoral research at the Marine Biological Laboratory and California Academy of Sciences. Having previously led coral reef research at the Joint Genome Institute, the University of California, Merced, and Penn State, she is now Professor of Ecology and Evolution at University of California, Los Angeles. Her work focuses on coral ancient DNA, microbial diversity, cnidarian development, and coral-algal symbiosis.},
}

Animals
History, 21st Century
History, 20th Century
*Marine Biology/history
*Anthozoa/microbiology/physiology
Symbiosis

@article {pmid42833478,
year = {2026},
author = {Yuan, J and Zhang, H and Huang, J and Wang, B and Wang, M and Yang, L},
title = {Metabolic reprogramming and plasticity in breast Cancer: Mechanisms driving tumor progression, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance.},
journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta. Reviews on cancer},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {189733},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbcan.2026.189733},
pmid = {42833478},
issn = {1879-2561},
abstract = {Breast cancer remains the most frequently diagnosed malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide. Despite substantial advances in endocrine therapy, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-targeted therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, therapeutic resistance and metastatic progression remain major clinical challenges. Accumulating evidence has established metabolic reprogramming as a fundamental hallmark of breast cancer, enabling tumor cells to adapt dynamically to nutrient limitation, hypoxia, oxidative stress, and therapeutic pressure. Beyond the classical Warburg effect, breast cancer cells exhibit remarkable metabolic plasticity through coordinated reprogramming of glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), glutamine metabolism, lipid metabolism, and one‑carbon metabolism. These metabolic alterations not only sustain bioenergetic and biosynthetic demands but also reshape the tumor microenvironment (TME), promote immune evasion, maintain cancer stemness, and facilitate metastatic dissemination. Recent studies further reveal that metabolic heterogeneity varies substantially across molecular subtypes, metastatic niches, and treatment-resistant cell populations. In parallel, stromal cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), and immune cells establish complex metabolic symbiotic relationships with tumor cells through metabolite exchange and immunometabolic regulation. Importantly, therapy-induced metabolic adaptation has emerged as a central mechanism underlying resistance to chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, HER2-targeted therapy, CDK4/6 inhibitors, and immune checkpoint blockade. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the molecular mechanisms governing metabolic reprogramming and metabolic plasticity in breast cancer, with particular emphasis on how they contribute to tumor progression, metastasis, immune escape, and therapeutic resistance. We further discuss emerging therapeutic strategies targeting glycolysis, mitochondrial metabolism, glutamine utilization, lipid metabolism, ferroptosis-associated pathways, and immunometabolic vulnerabilities. Finally, we highlight current challenges in clinical translation, including metabolic heterogeneity, compensatory pathway activation, and limited therapeutic selectivity, and outline future directions that integrate multi-omics profiling, spatial metabolomics, and precision metabolic targeting for individualized breast cancer therapy.},
}

@article {pmid42834901,
year = {2026},
author = {Arvinder, D and Ravindran, G and Gumathannavar, R},
title = {Dataset of soil particle images and particle size distribution for applications in granular materials.},
journal = {Data in brief},
volume = {69},
number = {},
pages = {113271},
pmid = {42834901},
issn = {2352-3409},
abstract = {This dataset introduces soil particle images corresponding to sieve-based particle size distribution (PSD) obtained from black cotton soil sourced from the laboratory stock of the Geotechnical Laboratory, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, Maharashtra, India. A bulk sample of 1500 grams was processed by implementing the mechanical sieve analysis using ASTM/ISO standard sieves (2.36 mm to 0.075 mm) under mechanical vibration for 15 min in three stages of 500 grams each. Representative fractions from each sieve were used for multi-scale image acquisition. A total of 1350 smartphone images were captured with the use of an iPhone 15 Pro Max at three heights (15 cm, 30 cm, 45 cm), incorporating repeated disturbance cycles to ensure the variability in particle exposure. In addition to the smartphone images, 1350 microscopic images were acquired from sub-sampled sieve fractions using varying magnifications (4x, 10x, and 20x) under an inverted microscope Olympus CKX53. The inclusion of both macro-scale and micro-scale imaging aligned with standardized sieve data supports development and validation of predictive models in geotechnical engineering. Even though the dataset is generated from black cotton soil obtained from a single source, it provides a useful benchmark for developing and evaluating image-based characterization methods. Application to other soil types or granular materials requires additional validation.},
}

@article {pmid42835444,
year = {2026},
author = {Suman, K and Ravi, H and Sharma, P and Sharma, MP and Grover, M and Kaushik, R},
title = {Untargeted LC-QToF-MS profiling of the soybean (Glycine max) root-soil continuum reveals spatial compartmentalisation of putative exudate, defence, and iron-acquisition metabolite signatures.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1940810},
pmid = {42835444},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Compartment-resolved metabolite baselines for legumes grown under field conditions are notably scarce. Most root exudate data are obtained from hydroponic or pot systems using targeted assays. These methods fail to accurately represent the soil-borne and microbially derived chemical environments surrounding roots in situ. Furthermore, no such baseline has been established for soybeans grown on the calcareous Vertisols of central and western India, where phosphorus, Zn, and Fe availability are the primary constraints.

METHODS: We employed untargeted liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QToF-MS) to analyze four compartments of a field-grown soybean system in Hadoti, southeastern Rajasthan, India. These included non-rhizospheric bulk soil (NRBS), rhizospheric soil (RS), surface-sterilized (SRS), and unsterilized (SRU) roots, with three replicates each. We aimed to identify compartment-specific metabolic signatures and potential plant-microbe interaction mediators. As data were obtained at the MS1 level without tandem-MS confirmation, all annotations are putative, in accordance with Metabolomics Standards Initiative Levels 2-3.

RESULTS: Principal component analysis distinguished the root compartments, whereas the soil compartments were differentiated along the first component with overlapping confidence regions. Set analyses revealed 43 features exclusive to RS and 120 features exclusive to SRU. Soil chemistry differed markedly between NRBS and RS: available phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and manganese were lower in the rhizosphere, whereas exchangeable aluminium was approximately 15 times higher and was the sole element accumulating in the root zone. Among the ecological features, root colonization correlated with reduced abundance of jasmonic acid features and increased abundance of isoflavonoid features (including daidzein) and microbial siderophores. Although substantial, these differences did not withstand false discovery rate correction and are reported as candidate observations.

DISCUSSION: The observed patterns align with established models of nutrient mobilization, symbiotic signalling, and iron competition. However, targeted MS/MS validation and independent quantification are required before drawing mechanistic conclusions. The dataset serves as a hypothesis-generating baseline and provides a prioritized set of candidate features for subsequent targeted investigations of soybean root-microbe chemical interactions.},
}

@article {pmid42836343,
year = {2026},
author = {Ren, Q and Zou, Q and Yang, S and Xie, J and Cheng, G},
title = {The preprotein translocase YajC mediates biofilm formation and symbiotic nitrogen-fixation in Mesorhizobium huakuii.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0201626},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.02016-26},
pmid = {42836343},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: In bacteria, the auxiliary complex SecDF-YajC participates in the Sec system, facilitating post-translational translocation of preproteins across the membrane through the SecYEG channel. Although YajC homologs are strongly conserved in rhizobial strains and may play important roles in many processes, the functions and mechanisms by which they are involved in the interaction between rhizobia and host legumes are unknown. By constructing Mesorhizobium huakuii yajC mutant, we observed an increase in the strain growth rate, but a reduction in both the biomass and average thickness of the biofilm in the yajC gene mutant compared to the wild type. Deletion of yajC gene results in severe suppression of competitive ability in the plant rhizosphere, alongside a substantial reduction in root hair curling and infection thread initiation during the early infection stages. The yajC-deficient mutant formed more numerous but smaller root nodules, with a 77% decrease in nitrogen-fixing capacity. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that yajC mutant bacteroids displayed, alongside clear hallmarks of cellular deformation, dissociation, and premature senescence. From nodule bacteroid proteomic analysis, we further identified 210 differentially expressed proteins, including 32 transport-related proteins, and 10 associated with nitrogen fixation. Altogether, our findings reveal the importance of YajC-mediated transport and biofilm formation in rhizobial infection and nodule development during M. huakuii-Astragalus sinicus symbiosis.

IMPORTANCE: In Mesorhizobium huakuii-Astragalus sinicus symbiosis, deletion of the conserved Sec subunit YajC delays early biofilm formation by impairing flagellar-driven attachment. However, the yajC mutant restores wild-type biofilm biomass later, via upregulation of EPS synthesis genes (exoA/exoY), the PTS(Ntr) regulator ptsN, and polysaccharide deacetylase. This recovery contrasts with permanent biofilm defects in other bacteria, underscoring the need for longer-term assessment. YajC loss also disrupts nitrogenase activity by impairing iron-sulfur cluster biogenesis, Nif complex assembly, and electron transfer. As a compensatory response, plants form more nodules, offsetting reduced nitrogenase activity per nodule. Thus, multipath processes like biofilm formation show adaptability to secretion defects, whereas essential, linear pathways (e.g., nitrogenase maturation) remain highly sensitive. Our work redefines YajC: beyond its canonical role in Sec-mediated secretion, it is a rhizobium-specific factor critical for symbiosis, advancing understanding of secretion system roles in host-microbe interactions.},
}

@article {pmid42836349,
year = {2026},
author = {Zou, H and Yu, J and Li, H and Xu, J and An, M and Tian, L and Ma, Y},
title = {Microbial insights into the survival adaptation of the endemic orchid Corybas fanjingshanensis in a "sky island" habitat.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0371925},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.03719-25},
pmid = {42836349},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Understanding the microbiological basis of species adaptation is crucial for effective conservation. This study investigates the endangered, narrow-endemic orchid Corybas fanjingshanensis and its symbiotic moss substrate in a "sky island" habitat, using high-throughput sequencing to analyze microbial communities and their potential roles in host survival. Results reveal significant divergence between endophytic and environmental microbiomes. Endophytic bacterial diversity was lower, but dominance was higher than in the moss substrate. We identified 65 core bacterial and 18 core fungal genera, predominantly enriched in nutrient acquisition and stress tolerance functions. Five key bacterial taxa, including Vicinamibacteraceae and Mucilaginibacter, were highlighted as potential conservation targets. The C. fanjingshanensis-moss symbiotic network exhibited strong positive interactions and high modularity, forming tight functional clusters likely enhancing environmental stress resistance. While bacterial functional genes remained stable across communities, fungal nutritional strategies were influenced by environmental heterogeneity. We propose conservation measures, including microbial transplantation to rebuild host-microbe symbioses, selective amplification of core taxa, and a holistic framework integrating habitat integrity with long-term microbial monitoring. This study offers insights into the survival strategies of narrow-endemic plants and advances microbiome-based orchid conservation, shifting the paradigm from habitat simulation to microbial network restoration.IMPORTANCEUsing Corybas fanjingshanensis, a critically endangered species with an extremely limited distribution, as the research subject, high-throughput sequencing technology was employed to investigate its survival adaptations from a microbial perspective within the unique "sky island" habitat. The findings provide a reference for microbiome-based conservation of endangered narrow-endemic species and offer insights into plant habitat reconstruction.},
}

@article {pmid42825322,
year = {2026},
author = {Takahashi, C},
title = {Collagen-mediated biofilm formation and fibrillar organization in Staphylococcus epidermidis.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-17},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2026.2740722},
pmid = {42825322},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {The symbiotic skin bacterium Staphylococcus epidermidis moisturizes human skin, contributes to protection against external pathogens, and supports innate immune stimulation. However, the interaction between collagen, a major skin protein, and S. epidermidis remains insufficiently explored. In this study, biofilm development was investigated using scanning electron microscopy with ionic liquid pretreatment, confocal laser scanning microscopy, biofilm quantification assays, and growth curve analysis. In the presence of collagen, cells adhered to the substrate, secreted microvesicles, formed web-like intercellular fibrillar connections, and became embedded in an extracellular polymeric substance-like matrix. Confocal microscopy and quantitative analyses showed that collagen supplementation significantly increased biofilm thickness and biomass over time, with biomass approximately 1.6-fold higher at 36 h, while growth curves indicated minimal effects on bacterial proliferation. As biofilms matured, surface cells exhibited organized alignment, and thread-like fibrils connected cells in less dense regions. These findings suggest that collagen promotes distinct biofilm architectures and influences the structural development of biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid42826710,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, X and Ye, H and Yu, Y and Guo, L and Sun, M and Cao, X and Yu, Y and Fang, Z and Hu, L and Zhao, Y and Song, Q and Zhang, Y and Chen, Y and Shen, Q and Zhang, P and Qian, C and Zhang, Y and Hu, S and Qiu, Y},
title = {Role of host nitrogen use efficiency in determining arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi responses to nitrogen enrichment.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2026.09.024},
pmid = {42826710},
issn = {1879-0445},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form widespread symbiotic relationships with plants, influencing nutrient acquisition and ecosystem functioning. Although nitrogen (N) enrichment effects on AMF have been widely studied, whether host N-use efficiency (NUE) mediates these responses remains unclear. Here, we integrated a global meta-analysis with a greenhouse experiment using low- and high-NUE maize (Zea mays) cultivars Xianyu335 (XY335) and Qianyu568 (QY568) and a decade-long field experiment using low-NUE Sidan19 (SD19) and high-NUE Jidan27 (JD27). The global synthesis revealed a nonlinear response of AMF to increasing N addition, while the complementary experiments showed that host NUE altered both the response direction and its underlying regulatory pathway. In the field, AMF abundance and richness of SD19 declined linearly with increasing N availability, largely through root morphological plasticity. By contrast, JD27 exhibited a hump-shaped response to N addition, mediated by N-induced soil acidification. Furthermore, N addition altered AMF community composition, inducing taxonomic trade-offs between Glomeraceae and Paraglomeraceae, which contributed to the hump-shaped response of AMF in JD27. Together, our findings identify host NUE as a biological filter that modifies how established plant, soil, and fungal mechanisms regulate mycorrhizal responses to N enrichment, offering critical insights for sustainable agricultural management under future global change scenarios.},
}

@article {pmid42826911,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, X and Xian, X and Zhang, H and Wang, S and Fu, B},
title = {Lipid metabolic regulation and targeting strategies in the brain metastasis tumor microenvironment.},
journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta. Reviews on cancer},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {189729},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbcan.2026.189729},
pmid = {42826911},
issn = {1879-2561},
abstract = {Brain metastasis is a major contributor to poor prognosis in cancer patients, with therapeutic efficacy severely constrained by the blood-brain barrier and the complex brain microenvironment. Although lipid metabolic reprogramming has been linked to tumor progression across multiple cancer types, its mechanistic involvement in brain metastasis, particularly its reciprocal interactions with central nervous system microenvironmental cells, remains insufficiently defined. This review synthesizes existing evidence to elucidate how lipid metabolic reprogramming promotes tumor cell colonization and growth in the brain and to evaluate its therapeutic relevance. Current findings indicate that metastatic tumor cells adapt to the brain microenvironment via increased de novo lipogenesis, altered cholesterol metabolism, reduced fatty acid oxidation, and enhanced uptake of exogenous lipids. Emerging evidence further indicates reciprocal lipid-metabolic interactions between metastatic tumor cells and central nervous system-resident cells; however, the directionality, cell-type specificity, and underlying molecular mechanisms of this metabolic crosstalk remain insufficiently characterized. Such interactions may promote immunosuppressive microenvironmental remodeling and facilitate metastatic progression. Significant heterogeneity is observed among primary tumor types in their use of lipid metabolism associated mechanisms. Targeting critical nodes at the interface of lipid metabolic reprogramming and microenvironmental interactions may therefore help overcome current therapeutic limitations in brain metastasis. Future studies using advanced multi-omics approaches are expected to define spatial heterogeneity and support the development of combination strategies capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier, ultimately informing improved clinical management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42827569,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, X and Wen, I and Qu, Q and Chen, W},
title = {Editorial: Reimagining roles and identity in the era of human - AI collaboration, volume II.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1965573},
pmid = {42827569},
issn = {1664-1078},
}

@article {pmid42829935,
year = {2026},
author = {Han, Y and Tan, TY and Zhang, B and Fu, YB and Chen, W and Yang, MH and Wang, YQ and Ding, YQ and Wang, S},
title = {Epithelial SLC25A20 Deficiency Drives Immunosuppressive Neutrophil Remodeling via ARG1 Palmitoylation to Promote Colorectal Cancer.},
journal = {Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e78114},
pmid = {42829935},
issn = {2198-3844},
support = {82473083//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82073237//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82472777//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2025A1515010489//Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation/ ; 2024M761341//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {While lipid metabolic reprogramming is increasingly recognized as a substantial driver of tumor microenvironment (TME) remodeling, how dysregulated fatty acid oxidation (FAO) contributes to immune evasion in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression remains obscure. Here, we identify the mitochondrial carnitine-acylcarnitine translocase solute carrier 25 member 20 (SLC25A20), an essential conduit for FAO, as a key regulator of CRC progression through neutrophil phenotypic remodel. Mechanistically, SLC25A20 deficiency in CRC cells blunts mitochondrial long-chain fatty acid (LCFA) import and FAO, triggering the release of LCFAs into the TME. This lipid-rich niche not only vigorously recruits tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), but intrinsically programs them toward an immunosuppressive phenotype. Specifically, tumor-derived LCFAs enforce arginase-1 (ARG1) protein stability in TANs via ZDHHC18-mediated palmitoylation. This distinct post-translational modification (PTM) is indispensable for TAN-mediated CD8[+] T cell suppression and subsequent tumor immune evasion. Importantly, genetic or pharmacological blockade of this palmitoylation axis in TANs reinvigorates antitumor immunity and abolishes the tumor-promoting effects of SLC25A20 deficiency. Collectively, our findings uncover a novel lipid-driven metabolic symbiosis between CRC and neutrophils, highlighting the ZDHHC18-ARG1 palmitoylation axis as a promising therapeutic strategy for CRC intervention.},
}

@article {pmid42830422,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, H and Chen, L and Engel, MS and Ren, D and Gao, T},
title = {Mimicry of mantis and Selaginella from Cretaceous provides new evidence for the deep-time co-evolution of insects and plants.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71619},
pmid = {42830422},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {2025YFF0811700//National Key R&D Program of China/ ; YESS20240393//Young Elite Scientist Sponsorship Program by Cast/ ; 32270467//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32400347//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Mimicry between insects and plants represents sophisticated survival strategies. Their long-term evolutionary interactions led to mutual adaptation, creating a complex ecological symbiosis. However, the deep-time ecological associations of mimicry between insects and plants remain limited due to the scarcity of preserved fossils. Here, we report the fossil evidences of mimicry between praying mantis and spike mosses in 98-Myr-old Kachin amber. The new Cretaceous mantis, Folimantis hyalinala gen. et sp. nov., has a rare form of leaf mimicry via abdominal leaf-shaped extensions that resemble contemporaneous vegetative leaves (trophophylls) of Selaginella in shape, size, and pattern of arrangement. The new findings provide the earliest direct evidence of the co-associations between mantis and its mimetic plants during the Cretaceous and suggest that the stem-group had already developed distinct structural features that mimic plant leaves during the early divergences of Mantodea. A diversification analysis of mimicry between fossil insects and plants from the Late Paleozoic and Mesozoic indicates that, before the rise of angiosperms in the Late Cretaceous, mimicry between insects and gymnosperms, ferns, lichens, and even Selaginella had existed for a long time and that changes in mimicry forms paralleled the evolutionary succession of plant lineages.},
}

@article {pmid42831636,
year = {2026},
author = {Pogoreutz, C},
title = {The gut within: reframing the coral gastrovascular cavity as a discrete anaerobic microbial ecosystem.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0143026},
doi = {10.1128/aem.01430-26},
pmid = {42831636},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Coral holobionts are typically studied at colony or fragment scale, erasing the spatial context of the microenvironments which microbial life occupies. Recent microsensor work (Q. Zhang, E. Bollati, and M. Kühl, Appl Environ Microbiol 92:e02441-25, 2026, https://doi.org/10.1128/aem.02441-25) shows the coral gastrovascular cavity (GVC) sustains active anaerobic metabolism, reflecting patterns of symbiotic state and heterotrophic feeding. These findings recast the GVC as a discrete, gut-like ecosystem with its own redox regime, substrate supply, and bacterial community, calling for spatially explicit approaches in coral research to resolve metabolism at microscopic scales.},
}

@article {pmid42825194,
year = {2026},
author = {Prasad, SS and Singh, A and Ramteke, P and Veres, C and Büchner, R and Vágvölgyi, C},
title = {Symbiotic interactions of plant microbiota in alleviating stress: a review.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1892395},
pmid = {42825194},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Plants continuously encounter a wide range of biotic and abiotic stresses that adversely affect their growth, development, and productivity. Because they are sessile, plants cannot escape these unfavorable conditions and therefore rely on a diverse array of morpho-physiological, biochemical, and molecular adaptations to survive. Among these adaptive strategies, symbiotic associations with beneficial microorganisms have emerged as a crucial mechanism for enhancing stress tolerance. These plant-microbe interactions are mediated by intricate chemical signaling networks that regulate nutrient exchange, defense responses, and stress adaptation. Despite their immense potential for sustainable agriculture, the large-scale application of beneficial microbes remains limited owing to poor microbial establishment under field conditions and an incomplete understanding of the complex mechanisms governing plant-microbe mutualism. Deciphering these interactions is particularly challenging because they are highly dynamic and involve continuous communication between plants and diverse microbial communities. Recent advances in omics technologies, synthetic biology, and nanotechnology provide unprecedented opportunities to unravel these complex relationships at the molecular and systems levels. This review summarizes plant adaptive strategies under biotic and abiotic stresses, examines the role of microbial symbiosis in stress alleviation, and highlights emerging approaches, including multi-omics integration, synthetic microbial consortia, engineered quorum-sensing circuits, holobiont-level analyses, and nanoparticle-mediated modulation of the rhizosphere microbiome, for understanding and engineering beneficial plant-microbe interactions. Collectively, these advances offer new insights into symbiotic crosstalk and provide a foundation for developing resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.},
}

@article {pmid42465508,
year = {2026},
author = {Jones, MW and Stilwell, PA and Lindsey, ARI},
title = {Asymmetry and niche partitioning shape the infection dynamics of co-transmitted Wolbachia symbionts.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42465508},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Wolbachia is an incredibly widespread maternally transmitted bacterium in arthropods that can alter host physiology, nutrition, reproduction, and immunity. In some cases, multiple Wolbachia strains infect the same host and are stably transmitted alongside each other. This raises the question of how multiple intracellular symbionts interact with each another and with the host to ensure stable transmission. Here, we use fluorescence in situ hybridizations and confocal microscopy to investigate co-transmission in a naturally occurring co-infection of two Wolbachia strains in Drosophila simulans: wHa and wNo. We find significant differences in spatial occupancy and abundance between the co-transmitted strains across stages of oogenesis and embryogenesis. We show that wHa and wNo have biases for different niches during oogenesis, and their strain-specific abundance is driven by egg chamber development, mating status, and their interaction. After differential curing of the co-infection, we find that wNo is dependent on wHa for vertical transmission, but not vice versa. Additionally, while wHa localization patterns are unchanged by loss of co-infection, abundance of wHa in the ovaries increases when wNo is removed. Understanding how symbiont co-infections achieve stability has important implications for the ongoing use of Wolbachia as a tool for insect management programs, but also for our understanding of the ecology of intracellular communities more broadly.},
}

@article {pmid42818851,
year = {2026},
author = {Hart, R and Steinrücken, M},
title = {Microevolutionary cophylogeny reflects host-symbiont population dynamics and human mitonuclear interactions.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.09.11.751054},
pmid = {42818851},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Cophylogeny, the study of phylogenetic similarity between interacting organisms, provides insights into the specificity and shared evolutionary history of symbiosis. While the ecological drivers of cophylogeny have been investigated at the macroevolutionary scale, the influence of these processes on microevolution remains unclear. This is due, in part, to the fact that the ancestral relations between individuals within a sexually reproducing eukaryotic host species cannot be well represented with a single phylogenetic tree, since genetic distances between individuals change substantially across the genome due to meiotic recombination. This heterogeneity can be captured and utilized through the inference of an ancestral recombination graph (ARG) built from the genomic data of the host. Here, we propose to measure microevolutionary cophylogeny by comparing a symbiont evolutionary tree to a host ARG. This approach simultaneously measures genome-wide cophylogeny, as well as locus-specific signals. Through simulations, we investigate the effects of transmission mode, population structure, admixture, and allelic incompatibility on microevolutionary cophylogeny. In contrast to macroevolutionary patterns, we find a limited relationship between cophylogeny and vertical transmission, with vertically transmitted host-symbiont systems displaying no cophylogeny in large panmictic populations. We apply our approach to mitochondrial and nuclear genomes within the 1000 Genomes Project- a host-symbiont system with strict maternal transmission-and observe substantial variation in mitochondrial-nuclear (mitonuclear) cophylogeny across human populations. Finally, we investigate locus-specific signals of cophylogeny and observe limited evidence of mitonuclear incompatibility.},
}

@article {pmid42820219,
year = {2026},
author = {Navajas-Preciado, B and Martillanes, S and Delgado-Adámez, J},
title = {Fermentative valorisation of agri-food residues: optimisation of Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum fermentation conditions for the production of platform organic acids.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1935066},
pmid = {42820219},
issn = {2296-4185},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Organic acid fermentation is a key route for integrating second-generation (2G) biomass into biorefineries and promoting industrial symbiosis between agri-food residues and platform-chemical production. However, plant matrices such as tomato pomace (TP) and spent coffee grounds (SCG) show limited carbon accessibility and contain phenolic and lipidic compounds that may inhibit bacterial growth.

METHODS: This study uses hydroalcoholically pretreated TP and develops an iterative strategy for organic acid production using Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum as a biofactory, while evaluating selectivity towards lactate. Quantitative proton nuclear magnetic resonance was used to monitor lactic acid (LA) and acetic acid (AA) titres and apparent glucose-equivalent conversion (aGEC) into these acids. The aGEC is a comparative, non-stoichiometric index rather than a closed carbon yield, because it includes buffer-derived acetate.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Response surface methodology identified 44.7% TP replacement, 79.6 h and an initial pH of 5.77 as the basal fermentation conditions (4.73 ± 0.26 gL-1 LA; aGEC ≈ 6%). Nitrogen-source optimisation and pH buffering increased LA to 7.68 ± 0.56 and 14.52 ± 0.76 gL-1 and aGEC to ≈ 10% and ≈ 26%, respectively. The final combined intensification treatment comprised cellulase pretreatment, a modified incubation atmosphere and CaCO3 as an additional buffering system. It increased aGEC to ≈ 85% but did not significantly increase LA. Acetate accumulated substantially, and the simultaneous modifications prevented attribution of the response to any individual factor. Transfer of the basal conditions optimised for TP to SCG was feasible only at moderate substitution levels. At 44-60% replacement of standard glucose, SCG maintained comparable aGEC values of approximately 28-29% and produced 16.92-15.87 gL-1 LA, whereas higher substitution reduced both aGEC and LA production. This sequential framework distinguishes total-acid accumulation from LA selectivity and shows the limited transferability of residue-specific fermentation conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42820940,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, Y and Wang, L and Song, Z and Shi, H and Lv, Y and Yin, X and Cai, B},
title = {A Hyphal-Mycorrhizal Framework for Interpreting Sulfur Transport and Assimilation-Related Transcriptional Responses Between AMF Extraradical Hyphae and Mycorrhizal Roots in Soybean.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70957},
pmid = {42820940},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {31972502//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023-KYYWF-1445//Basic Research Operating Expenses of Provincial Higher Education Institutions in Heilongjiang Province in 2023/ ; },
abstract = {Sulfur (S) is an essential macronutrient that plays a critical role in plant growth and development. Under intensive agricultural management, declining sulfur availability in cold-region black soils has become a major constraint on sulfur acquisition in soybean. Although arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are known to enhance sulfur uptake through symbiosis, the molecular mechanisms underlying AMF-mediated sulfur transport and assimilation remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated molecular responses associated with AMF-mediated sulfur acquisition, transport and assimilation in soybean, with particular emphasis on coordinated processes between extraradical hyphae and mycorrhizal roots. A compartmented pot culture system was employed to assess biological traits and transcriptomic profiles of Funneliformis mosseae (F. mosseae) hyphae and soybean mycorrhizal roots. In the extraradical hyphae compartment, sulfur supply strongly induced the expression of F. mosseae SULTR2;1 and SULTR4;1 homologs, as well as assimilation-related genes sat and cysH. In the mycorrhizal root compartment, key sulfur transporter genes (SULTR3;5, SULTR4;2) and assimilation genes (cysC, cysH) were significantly upregulated. Integrated analyses revealed coordinated expression patterns of genes related to sulfur transport and assimilation between the F. mosseae extraradical hyphal compartment and the mycorrhizal root compartment, which were associated with a 65.4% increase in soybean root sulfur content. Consistently, the abundances of key sulfur assimilation enzymes (ATPS, APR and APSK) increased in mycorrhizal roots, accompanied by enhanced sulfur assimilation responses and cysteine accumulation. Collectively, this study provides insights into the molecular basis of AMF-mediated sulfur acquisition, transport and assimilation, and highlights the coordinated responses between fungal hyphae and mycorrhizal roots within the hyphal-mycorrhizal symbiotic system, thereby providing a theoretical basis for improving sulfur nutrition in soybean.},
}

@article {pmid42821351,
year = {2026},
author = {Niki, H and Noda, S and Fujiwara, K and Miyake, T and Akiyama, K and Seike, T},
title = {Constitutive sporulation in wild fission yeast enhances insect-mediated survival.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {123},
number = {40},
pages = {e2607475123},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2607475123},
pmid = {42821351},
issn = {1091-6490},
mesh = {Animals ; *Schizosaccharomyces/physiology/genetics ; *Spores, Fungal/physiology/genetics ; *Drosophila melanogaster/microbiology ; Mutation ; Phenotype ; },
abstract = {Sexual reproduction is generally considered costly for unicellular organisms and is typically induced in yeast only under nutrient limitation. However, wild strains of Schizosaccharomyces japonicus isolated from fruit flies in Japan exhibit constitutive sporulation even under nutrient-rich conditions. Here, we investigated the ecological and evolutionary significance of this unusual phenotype. We demonstrate that spores produced under nutrient-rich conditions survive passage through the digestive tract of Drosophila melanogaster, whereas vegetative cells do not. Although constitutive sporulation reduces competitive growth during laboratory serial passaging, fly-mediated transmission strongly enriches high-sporulation (hc[90]) strains, indicating positive selection by insect predation. Experimental evolution using a chemically mutagenized library further confirmed that passage through fruit flies enriches mutants capable of nutrient-independent sporulation. Whole-genome and genetic analyses revealed that the hc[90] phenotype is associated with combinations of mutations in six meiotic regulatory genes-byr2, mcs4, ste6, ste11, tor2, and win1-suggesting epistatic interactions rather than single-gene effects. Suppressor mutations arising during laboratory cultivation frequently targeted ste11, reinforcing its central role in regulating this trait. Field surveys showed that genetically diverse hc[90] strains are widely distributed across Japan from insects, flowers, moss, and soil. Together, our findings indicate that long-term yeast-insect interactions can maintain costly sexual reproduction as an adaptive strategy for survival and dispersal. This study provides direct experimental evidence linking microbial reproductive strategies to ecological selection by animal hosts.},
}

Animals
*Schizosaccharomyces/physiology/genetics
*Spores, Fungal/physiology/genetics
*Drosophila melanogaster/microbiology
Mutation
Phenotype

@article {pmid42823540,
year = {2026},
author = {Khalkho, JP and Chandra, R},
title = {Profiling of Bioactive Secondary Metabolites of Colletotrichum siamense Isolated from Catharanthus roseus with Emphasis on Moschamine by Advanced Chromatographic and Mass Spectrometric Techniques.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {42823540},
issn = {1432-0991},
support = {202021/NFST-JHA-03517//NFST/ ; },
mesh = {*Catharanthus/microbiology ; *Colletotrichum/metabolism/isolation & purification/chemistry/genetics/classification ; *Endophytes/isolation & purification/metabolism/chemistry ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; Secondary Metabolism ; Mass Spectrometry ; Plant Leaves/microbiology ; *Indole Alkaloids/chemistry/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Endophytic fungi are microorganisms that live in symbiotic relationships with plants, residing within their tissues without causing damage or disease to the host. Endophytic fungi provide vitality to the host plant and are excellent producers of many secondary metabolites that may contain pharmaceutical properties. In this study, Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. was collected from various places in Jharkhand to identify and isolate the endophytic fungi found in the leaf tissues of these plants. A total of 30 unique fungal isolates were obtained and maintained through subculturing at regular intervals. Among them, Colletotrichum siamense was chosen for targeted indole alkaloid compounds and their chemical profiling due to its bioactive potential. Primary screening of the metabolites was done through alkaloid tests and HPTLC analysis. A comprehensive metabolite profiling of the selected isolate has been performed by employing advanced analytical techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry. The data obtained through GC-MS showed many bioactive constituents present within the fungal extracts and included: chlorozotocin, indole, 2-Amino-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-propanoic acid, 7-Methyl-Z-tetradecen-1-ol acetate, digitoxin, and glucobrassicin. In addition, LC-HRMS confirmed the presence of indole alkaloids found in the extracts of C. siamense, including moschamine and many other secondary metabolites. HPLC-DAD further analysed the fungal extracts, with quantification of moschamine at 109.13 µg/mL. The current research identified endophytic fungi isolated from C. roseus that may serve as valuable sources of pharmacologically active compounds. The observation of unique metabolic patterns among the isolates indicates that a variety of biosynthetic pathways exist within the endophytic fungi, as exemplified by the discovery of moschamine from Colletotrichum siamense.},
}

*Catharanthus/microbiology
*Colletotrichum/metabolism/isolation & purification/chemistry/genetics/classification
*Endophytes/isolation & purification/metabolism/chemistry
Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Secondary Metabolism
Mass Spectrometry
Plant Leaves/microbiology
*Indole Alkaloids/chemistry/metabolism

@article {pmid42824095,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, Z and Xie, D},
title = {From technology anxiety to technology symbiosis: a grounded theory study of mid-career foreign language teachers' subjectivity evolution in the AI era.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1914637},
pmid = {42824095},
issn = {1664-1078},
abstract = {The integration of generative AI into foreign language education has profoundly challenged teacher professional identity, particularly for mid-career educators navigating the dual burden of experiential wisdom and technological change. This study employed grounded theory to investigate how 10 mid-career foreign language teachers transition from technology anxiety to symbiosis. Through in-depth interviews and systematic coding, we developed a theoretical model comprising four anxiety types (substitution, autonomy, generational, ethical), three adaptive stages (exploration adjustment, strategy integration, autonomous symbiosis), and the double-edged effects of experiential wisdom as the core mediating mechanism. Findings reveal that experiential wisdom can function as either an evolutionary resource (critical scrutiny, pedagogical design, humanistic commitment) or a barrier (thinking set inertia) depending on its activation mode, with support systems moderating this process. The study reveals the existential dimensions of technology anxiety and offers stage-sensitive implications for supporting mid-career teachers' professional growth in the AI era.},
}

@article {pmid42814348,
year = {2027},
author = {Struk, S and Gevaert, K and Goormachtig, S and Qu, F},
title = {Virus-Induced Gene Silencing for Nodulation Analysis in Soybean.},
journal = {Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)},
volume = {3086},
number = {},
pages = {25-39},
pmid = {42814348},
issn = {1940-6029},
mesh = {*Glycine max/genetics/virology ; *Gene Silencing ; *Comovirus/genetics ; *Plant Root Nodulation/genetics ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Agrobacterium/genetics ; Nicotiana/genetics/virology ; Genetic Vectors/genetics ; Symbiosis/genetics ; },
abstract = {Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) is a powerful reverse genetics tool that enables the transient knockdown of gene expression in plants by exploiting their natural antiviral defense mechanisms. This chapter presents a detailed protocol for applying a Cowpea severe mosaic virus (CPSMV)-based VIGS system to study gene function in soybean (Glycine max), with a focus on symbiotic root nodulation. VIGS allows systemic silencing of target genes, making it especially valuable to study pathways involving systemic signaling. The protocol includes Agrobacterium-mediated propagation of CPSMV variants in Nicotiana benthamiana, followed by mechanical inoculation of soybean plants and nodulation analysis. Detailed steps for vector construction, viral amplification, plant infection, and downstream molecular and phenotypic analyses are provided. This protocol is reproducible, accessible, and suitable for functional genomics studies in soybean, particularly for genes involved in nodulation but also in other developmental or stress-related processes.},
}

*Glycine max/genetics/virology
*Gene Silencing
*Comovirus/genetics
*Plant Root Nodulation/genetics
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Agrobacterium/genetics
Nicotiana/genetics/virology
Genetic Vectors/genetics
Symbiosis/genetics

@article {pmid42814349,
year = {2027},
author = {Gasser, M and Brottier, L and Marquès, L and Péret, B},
title = {Protocols for Root Developmental Studies in White Lupin.},
journal = {Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)},
volume = {3086},
number = {},
pages = {41-53},
pmid = {42814349},
issn = {1940-6029},
mesh = {*Lupinus/growth & development/genetics/microbiology/metabolism ; *Plant Roots/growth & development/genetics ; Symbiosis ; Agrobacterium/genetics ; Nitrogen/metabolism ; Phosphates/metabolism ; Hydroponics/methods ; Plant Root Nodulation ; Transformation, Genetic ; },
abstract = {White lupin (Lupinus albus) is a legume species that develops two remarkable root adaptations to nutrient limitation: nitrogen-fixing nodules and dense cluster roots specialized for phosphate acquisition. These traits, together with the species' agronomic relevance and strong developmental plasticity, make white lupin a powerful model for studying local and systemic regulation of root development under nutrient stress. This chapter provides a comprehensive collection of experimental procedures designed to investigate cluster root formation, nodulation, and associated physiological responses at both cellular and whole-plant levels. We describe optimized hydroponic culture systems that allow precise control of nitrogen and phosphate availability, together with reliable seed sterilization and germination procedures. We present a robust protocol for Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated hairy-root transformation to investigate gene function in root tissues. A controlled nodulation assay using Bradyrhizobium lupini enables reproducible symbiotic infection and nodule development. A grafting method is also provided to dissect local versus systemic contributions to root architectural responses. Finally, we detail three in situ physiological assays-phosphatase activity, ferric reductase activity, and proton efflux-that collectively allow the visualization of key functional traits associated with nutrient foraging. Together, these protocols provide an integrated toolkit for exploring the developmental and physiological mechanisms underpinning root plasticity and symbiotic regulation in white lupin.},
}

*Lupinus/growth & development/genetics/microbiology/metabolism
*Plant Roots/growth & development/genetics
Symbiosis
Agrobacterium/genetics
Nitrogen/metabolism
Phosphates/metabolism
Hydroponics/methods
Plant Root Nodulation
Transformation, Genetic

@article {pmid42816147,
year = {2026},
author = {Chatterley, L and Hull, N and Hughes, I and Sougoufara, S and Meek, O and Ceyran, M and Dhokiya, V and Bandibabone, J and Adala, C and Cunningham, E and Awandu, SS and Kaminski-Nenkam, H and Nkondjio, A and Hughes, GL and Heinz, E and Walker, T},
title = {Assessing the Use of Oxford Nanopore Technologies Sequencing for Detection of Stable Wolbachia Bacterial Strain in Symbiosis in Wild Anopheles Mosquitoes From the WHO African Region.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {28},
number = {10},
pages = {e70435},
pmid = {42816147},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {INV-048598//Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation/ ; //Open Philanthropy via Anti-Vec/ ; UKRI543:2023BBSRC-NSF/BIO/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/V011278/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/X018024/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/W018446/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; BB/V011278/2/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; 2038930//National Health and Medical Research Council/ ; 101285/Z/13/Z//Sir Henry Dale Wellcome Trust Royal Society Fellowship/ ; 20197//UK Research and Innovation/ ; NIHR2000907//National Institute for Health and Care Research/ ; AREF-312-AWAN-F-C0906//African Research Excellence Fund/ ; AREF-312-AWAN-S-C1027//African Research Excellence Fund/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Anopheles/microbiology ; *Wolbachia/isolation & purification/genetics/classification/physiology ; *Symbiosis ; *Nanopore Sequencing/methods ; },
abstract = {Malaria remains a significant global health challenge with 263 million cases in 2023. Anopheles insecticide resistance threatens current vector control methods, and novel strategies are crucial to combat malaria transmission. Wolbachia, an endosymbiotic bacteria that can invade mosquito populations and inhibit pathogen replication, has only recently been shown as a high-density symbiont in two wild Anopheles species. Detection of Wolbachia in symbiosis with Anopheles mosquitoes has relied on PCR amplification of Wolbachia genes and/or Sanger and Illumina sequencing. This study assesses Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) to detect Wolbachia, which could facilitate screening for symbiosis with wild Anopheles mosquitoes in endemic settings. We used 46 samples; 10 were pooled for a single MinION flow cell run and the rest processed individually using Flongle flow cells, comparing three mosquito species with three kit combinations. Using the ONT Field sequencing kit, there were 13X more Wolbachia reads in An. demeilloni (genuine symbiosis) than An. gambiae (no evidence of Wolbachia). The ONT 16S barcoding kit and Rapid barcoding kit were then assessed using more economical Flongle flow cells. Wolbachia was successfully identified in An. demeilloni and An. moucheti but not in An. gambiae. This study demonstrates the feasibility of ONT for field-based detection of Wolbachia.},
}

Animals
*Anopheles/microbiology
*Wolbachia/isolation & purification/genetics/classification/physiology
*Symbiosis
*Nanopore Sequencing/methods

@article {pmid42816272,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, J and Shi, T and Qian, D and Cheng, K and Xu, P and Chen, X and Wang, C and Ru, N and Li, T and Ma, N and Dawulieti, J and Shi, J and Zhang, Y and Liu, G and Zhao, X and Nie, G},
title = {Engineered E. coli Nissle 1917 alleviates colitis-associated depression via gut-brain axis restoration.},
journal = {Science bulletin},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.scib.2026.09.052},
pmid = {42816272},
issn = {2095-9281},
abstract = {Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients disproportionately suffer from depression and anxiety, which exacerbate clinical outcomes yet remain inadequately addressed by current anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) biologics. To bridge this therapeutic gap, we engineered Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (eEcN) as a clinically translatable living microbial therapeutics platform for dual-targeted intervention. eEcN is designed to autonomously secrete immunomodulatory outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) bearing TNFα-neutralizing nanobodies (TNFαnb). These bioengineered nanovesicles specifically target inflamed colon tissue, enabling localized TNFα blockade, mucosal healing, and immune regulation. Concurrently, the eEcN remodels the gut microbiota, increasing symbiotic Lactobacillus abundance to elevate intestinal γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, addressing a core neurotransmitter deficit in IBD-associated depression. In murine colitis models, this integrated strategy surpassed conventional anti-TNF therapy, simultaneously ameliorating intestinal pathology and depression-like behaviors. Mechanistically, eEcN attenuated neuroinflammation and restored hippocampal GABAergic neurotransmission via the gut-brain axis. This engineered living biomaterial platform, synergizing targeted OMVs-mediated nanobody delivery with microbiota-driven neurometabolite production, represents a promising approach for the complex pathophysiology of IBD and its neuropsychiatric comorbidities.},
}

@article {pmid42816479,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, PJ and Tu, YT and Chang, YT and Ho, MC and Kuo, WN and Guo, ZL and Chang, KC and Lin, YZ and Shih, HC and Cheng, YS and Yang, SY},
title = {OsIDD7 integrates signaling networks for arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42816479},
issn = {2041-1723},
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology/genetics/metabolism ; *Symbiosis/genetics ; *Plant Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; *Oryza/microbiology/genetics/metabolism ; *Signal Transduction ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Promoter Regions, Genetic ; Transcription Factors/metabolism/genetics ; Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis is a widespread mutualism between plant roots and Glomeromycotina fungi that enables nutrient exchange through arbuscules. Although many transcriptional regulators of AM symbiosis have been identified, the role of the INDETERMINATE DOMAIN (IDD) proteins remain unknown. We show that rice IDD7 expression is strongly induced in arbuscule-containing cells, and its loss markedly reduces fungal colonization and disrupts arbuscule development. IDD7 is required for induction of genes associated with fatty acid biosynthesis, nutrient transport, and symbiotic signaling during AM symbiosis. IDD7 interacts with the transcription factors SLENDER RICE 1 (SLR1) and PHOSPHATE STARVATION RESPONSE 2 (PHR2) through its conserved TQDFLG domain. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays show that IDD7 binds multiple promoter motifs. Together with SLR1 and PHR2, IDD7 synergistically activates the promoters of PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTER 11 (PT11) and the AM-associated transcription factors PHR2, REQUIRED FOR ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZATION 1 (RAM1), WRINKLED 5a (WRI5a), and CYCLOPS. Moreover, IDD7 is required for PHR2 expression in arbuscule-containing cells. Here, we show that IDD7 is a central transcriptional regulator in arbuscule-containing cells.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology/genetics/metabolism
*Symbiosis/genetics
*Plant Proteins/metabolism/genetics
*Oryza/microbiology/genetics/metabolism
*Signal Transduction
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Promoter Regions, Genetic
Transcription Factors/metabolism/genetics
Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism

@article {pmid42817006,
year = {2026},
author = {Akçay, S and Başyiğit Kılıç, G and Bilecen Şen, D},
title = {Effects of different herbal teas on the fermentation and functional properties of kombucha symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts (SCOBY).},
journal = {Journal of the science of food and agriculture},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jsfa.71115},
pmid = {42817006},
issn = {1097-0010},
support = {//Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University Scientific Research Projects Coordination Office under the Project number of 0892-YL-23/E-90383742-604.02-226693./ ; //the Livestock Specialization Coordination Office under Project No. 0892-YL-23/E-90383742-604.02-226693/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Kombucha is a fermented beverage traditionally produced from sweetened tea by a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts (SCOBY), forming a bacterial cellulose layer during fermentation. Alternative herbal substrates have attracted attention for their potential to influence the composition and characteristics of kombucha. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of black tea, green tea, Echinacea purpurea, and lavender on the microbiological, physicochemical, antioxidant, organic acid, sugar, volatile aroma compound, and ethanol profiles of kombucha cultures.

RESULTS: Significant substrate-dependent differences were observed in most microbiological and biochemical parameters (P < 0.05). Green tea and echinacea SCOBY exhibited higher microbial counts than black tea SCOBY, whereas lactic acid bacteria were not detected in black tea samples. Echinacea SCOBY showed the highest total phenolic content (219.36 mg gallic acid equivalents g[-1]) and strong antioxidant activity. Lavender SCOBY was characterized by the highest concentrations of volatile aroma compounds and ethanol, indicating enhanced fermentative activity. Organic acid profiles differed among substrates; echinacea SCOBY contained the highest levels of malic and ascorbic acids, while green tea SCOBY showed elevated lactic and citric acid concentrations. Sugar analysis showed greater glucose utilization in lavender SCOBY, consistent with increased ethanol and metabolite production.

CONCLUSION: The type of fermentation substrate significantly influenced microbial growth, metabolite formation, antioxidant potential, and fermentation characteristics of SCOBY. Echinacea SCOBY showed the highest phenolic content and high antioxidant capacity, whereas lavender promoted aroma development. These findings demonstrate that alternative herbal substrates can be successfully utilized to diversify kombucha products. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid42818742,
year = {2026},
author = {Belmondo, S and Daghino, S and Miyauchi, S and Chiapello, M and Shelest, E and Bortolot, M and Kohler, A and Jacob, C and Perotto, S and Martino, E},
title = {Polyketide synthase gene clusters in the ericoid mycorrhizal fungus Oidiodendron maius: genome-wide prediction, expression profiling, and functional characterization of knockout mutants.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1924430},
pmid = {42818742},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Fungal polyketides constitute a structurally diverse class of secondary metabolites involved in ecological adaptation, stress responses, antagonistic interactions, and host-associated processes. However, their roles in mycorrhizal fungi remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the repertoire and potential functions of polyketide synthases (PKSs) in the ericoid mycorrhizal fungus Oidiodendron maius.

METHODS AND RESULTS: Genome-wide analyses identified 45 PKS-coding genes and 59 predicted biosynthetic gene clusters associated with secondary metabolite production. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that several PKS genes were differentially regulated during symbiosis with Vaccinium myrtillus and under cadmium exposure. Among these, the gene OmPKS197601 was strongly upregulated under both conditions and was selected for functional characterization through Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated gene disruption. Three independent OmPKS197601 knockout mutants were generated and evaluated for their ability to establish mycorrhizal symbiosis and tolerate cadmium and zinc stress. Knock-out mutants were also tested for their ability to antagonize the growth of selected fungal species. No significant differences were observed between the wild-type strain and the three OmPKS197601 knock-out mutants in either mycorrhization efficiency or metal tolerance. In contrast, dual-culture assays with the M2 knock-out mutant demonstrated reduced antagonistic activity against both plant pathogenic and saprotrophic fungi, including Heterobasidion annosum, Pythium sp., Kuehneromyces mutabilis, and Stereum hirsutum.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, these findings reveal the extensive genetic potential of O. maius for polyketide biosynthesis and suggest that regulated expression of PKS genes may contribute to the ecological fitness and biocontrol potential of ericoid mycorrhizal fungi.},
}

@article {pmid42818753,
year = {2026},
author = {Zünd, M and Ortiz de Ora, L and Haro-Ramirez, N and Wiles, ET and Leonard, JT and Chen, YJ and Gallardo, ME and Ho, K and O'Malley, TP and Gonen, S and Griffin, ME and Whiteson, KL and Wiles, TJ},
title = {Capsular Polysaccharide Safeguards a Prophage-Bacterium Symbiosis by Preventing Collateral Attack and Promoting Viral Transmission.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.09.09.750276},
pmid = {42818753},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Many symbioses exist along a continuum from cooperation to conflict. Latent bacterial viruses known as prophages embody this duality. Acting as both partner and predator, they can enhance bacterial fitness while retaining the capacity to kill their hosts through lytic replication. Yet what determines the balance between cooperation and conflict in prophage-bacterium symbioses, and how these associations avoid collapse, remains poorly characterized. To identify mechanisms that stabilize prophage-bacterium partnerships, we used experimental evolution to perturb a natural association through repeated cycles of transmission and reinfection. This perturbation consistently selected mutant hosts lacking capsular polysaccharide production and exposed a hidden conflict that proved detrimental to both partners. During lytic outbreaks, host cells suffered lethal collateral prophage attack while dispersing virions became entrapped on neighboring cells and lysis debris, severely restricting transmission. Genetic and imaging-based studies revealed that capsular polysaccharides suppress these maladaptive interactions by limiting phage readsorption at the cell surface. We term this host-mediated safeguard the Hyperion effect, after the Greek Titan of light. Hyperion interactions enable phages to radiate outward from host populations, thereby averting collateral attack and promoting viral transmission. Our findings demonstrate that conflicts between prophages and their hosts can extend beyond individual cells to whole populations, with consequences that scale to shape patterns of prophage spread and microbial community assembly. More broadly, our work illustrates how mutually beneficial prophage-bacterium interactions can arise not only through cooperation, but also through the suppression of mutually detrimental conflicts.},
}

@article {pmid42809721,
year = {2026},
author = {Eriksson, S and Nitschke, MR and Pernice, M and Fineran, E and Camp, EF},
title = {High-throughput phenotyping reveals nutrient availability alters thermal performance in two Symbiodiniaceae species.},
journal = {Journal of experimental botany},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jxb/erag488},
pmid = {42809721},
issn = {1460-2431},
abstract = {Nutrient sharing between corals and Symbiodiniaceae is crucial to the survival of coral reefs. However, optimal nutrient conditions for different Symbiodiniaceae species remains unclear, partly due to a lack of high-throughput methods for phenotyping Symbiodiniaceae. We developed a high-throughput phenotyping method for Symbiodiniaceae to grow monocultures of Cladocopium proliferum and Durusdinium trenchii in 96-well plates. We utilised spectrophotometry, light-induced fluorescence transient-fast repetition rate fluorometry, and flow cytometry to characterise physiological responses over 11 days to differing nitrogen and phosphorus conditions (125 nutrient treatments) under two temperatures (250 experimental conditions). In our study, Durusdinium trenchii had higher specificity to growth conditions, requiring high nitrogen concentrations and nitrate proportions to grow. Contrastingly, Cladocopium proliferum was able to grow at all nutrient conditions. Elevated temperature resulted in higher growth rates in both species, with interactions between temperature and nutrient conditions determining photosynthetic health and cell size changes. These findings suggest that Cladocopium proliferum and Durusdinium trenchii differ vastly in their nutritional niches, which could have substantial impacts on both their free-living and symbiotic life stages. The ability to collect high-throughput phenotyping data for different Symbiodiniaceae species may allow us to uncover more of the functional variation that is present within this essential family.},
}

@article {pmid42810587,
year = {2026},
author = {Hervé, HAAS and Olivier, HAASFERRUA and Sébastien, HAASFERRUA},
title = {Symbiotoxicity and infectious diseases: A proposed conceptual framework linking the exposome, microbiome, resistome, and infection risk.},
journal = {Infectious diseases now},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105356},
doi = {10.1016/j.idnow.2026.105356},
pmid = {42810587},
issn = {2666-9919},
abstract = {Symbiotoxicity refers to the capacity of environmental stressors to alter not only the host organism, but also the microbiomes with which it lives in symbiosis. Applied to infectious diseases, this concept suggests that drug, chemical, or environmental exposure could promote certain infections by disrupting the protective functions of the microbiome. Intestinal, respiratory, skin, and vaginal microbiomes contribute to colonization resistance, maintenance of epithelial barriers, maturation of anti-infective immunity, and structuring of the resistome. Antibiotics provide the best-established model, particularly through recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection, alteration of the neonatal microbiome, and enrichment of the resistome. More recent data suggest that non-antibiotic drugs, industrial or agricultural contaminants, metals, air pollutants, and plasticizers may likewise modify microbial communities. This issue is particularly relevant in newborns and preterm infants, whose microbiome, barriers, and immune system are still maturing. Intestinal colonization preceding some neonatal bloodstream infections illustrates a possible continuum from ecological disruption to pathobiont dominance and invasive infection. However, infectious symbiotoxicity should be regarded as a conceptual framework rather than an established diagnostic entity. It represents an integrative approach linking the exposome, microbiome, resistome, immune maturation, and infection risk, which remains to be confirmed by longitudinal, mechanistic, and interventional studies.},
}

@article {pmid42810606,
year = {2026},
author = {Kryukov, V and Kosman, E and Ganina, M and Alekseev, A and Vorontsova, Y and Slepneva, I and Ilinsky, Y and Yaroslavtseva, O},
title = {Sex-dependent effects of Wolbachia on antifungal immunity in Drosophila melanogaster.},
journal = {Developmental and comparative immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105739},
doi = {10.1016/j.dci.2026.105739},
pmid = {42810606},
issn = {1879-0089},
abstract = {Wolbachia can enhance dipteran resistance to fungal infections, yet the effects of this symbiont on antifungal defense mechanisms remain poorly understood. We studied immune parameters in male and female Drosophila melanogaster with (W+) and without (W-) Wolbachia. We assessed the constitutive expression of Toll pathway genes and several components of the melanization cascade, including expression of prophenoloxidase genes, phenoloxidase activity, levels of reactive oxygen species, and concentrations of tyrosine, dopamine, and N-acetyldopamine. In addition, we analyzed the induction of Toll signaling components and Toll-related antimicrobial peptides in males and females of the W+ and W- flies following natural infection with the fungus Beauveria bassiana. We show that increased female survival following infection is associated with a Wolbachia-dependent constitutive shift toward catecholamine-dependent melanization.In males, by contrast, the effect of the symbiont is primarily reflected in stronger infection-induced expression of Toll pathway components, particularly spaetzle, dorsal, and Drosomycin. A common feature in both sexes was constitutively elevated expression of Metchnikowin. Together, these results demonstrate that Wolbachia modifies antifungal immunity in a sex-specific manner and highlight new directions for investigating the molecular mechanisms by which Wolbachia influences immune-signaling cascades.},
}

@article {pmid42810706,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, D and Wei, X and Gong, L and Wang, M and Shentu, X},
title = {A co-regulatory switch for immunity and yeast-like symbiont release: Pleiotropic mechanism of the JH-Met signaling pathway in Nilaparvata lugens (Stål).},
journal = {Journal of invertebrate pathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108759},
doi = {10.1016/j.jip.2026.108759},
pmid = {42810706},
issn = {1096-0805},
abstract = {Hormonal signaling pleiotropically regulates insect physiological processes, including development, reproduction, and immunity. Juvenile hormone (JH) and its receptor Methoprene-tolerant (Met) modulate immune responses across many insect species. Our previous studies demonstrated that mating behavior in Nilaparvata lugens induces the expression of defensin genes NlDfA/B, enhancing resistance to pathogens. Furthermore, the abundance of yeast-like symbionts (YLS) is closely linked to the reproduction-immunity trade-off. However, the regulatory mechanism underlying the dynamic changes in NlDfA/B expression and YLS remains unclear. Here, ELISA assays revealed that JH titers in female brown planthoppers gradually increased after eclosion, whereas NlDfA/B genes expression showed the opposite trend, accompanied by the release of YLS from the fat body to hemolymph. Exogenous JH treatment significantly suppressed NlDfA/B expression and promoted YLS release. Conversely, RNAi-mediated knockdown of juvenile hormone acid methyltransferase (NlJHAMT) upregulated NlDfA/B expression and reduced YLS levels in hemolymph. Western blot results further confirmed the inhibitory effect of JH on NlDfA/B protein expression. Mechanistically, JH via its receptor Met directly suppressed NlDfA/B promoter activity. Our findings reveal a regulatory circuit: JH suppresses NlDfA/B-mediated immune defense, thereby facilitating YLS release from fat body into hemolymph. This establishes an intrinsic link among insect hormone, immunity, and symbiotic fungus release, providing insights for green pest control targeting key genes and symbionts.},
}

@article {pmid42811674,
year = {2026},
author = {Carson-Austin, J and Bruce, C and Spence, S and Hart, M},
title = {Intraspecific variation in an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus affects a plant and an AMF community.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71617},
pmid = {42811674},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) show substantial genetic, trait, and functional variation within species. Whether this intraspecific variability has community-level consequences for plant and AMF communities is unclear. This study investigated whether introduced conspecific AMF affected a resident AMF and plant community. Mesocosms containing natural soils and a mixed plant community were inoculated with three conspecific isolates of Rhizophagus irregularis and grown for 17 wk. We measured AMF isolate abundance, plant performance (aboveground biomass, foliar phosphorus, seed production), and plant and AMF community response (diversity and composition). AMF isolate identity affected AMF isolate abundance though effects varied with host identity. Isolate identity affected aboveground biomass of two host species. A small shift in plant community composition, but not diversity, occurred between two isolate treatments. The most abundant isolate affected turnover of rare AMF taxa in the soil community but did not alter the dominant AMF community. Whether small community shifts would compound or stabilize over time remains to be seen. Given the growing use of AMF-based agricultural and forestry products, often represented by a single genetic isolate, there is a pressing need to understand how intraspecific AMF variation fits within ecological frameworks.},
}

@article {pmid42813422,
year = {2026},
author = {Okuma, N and Sugiura, D and Terashima, I and Kawaguchi, M},
title = {Lotus japonicus CLV1-Like Receptor HAR1 Promotes Nitrogen Utilisation and Growth Under Non-Symbiotic Conditions.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70923},
pmid = {42813422},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {20H03283//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 23H00381//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; },
abstract = {Legumes establish mutualistic symbiosis with nitrogen (N)-fixing bacteria, which allows them to utilise atmospheric N2. Because the maintenance of symbiosis requires abundant carbon (C) sources, legumes regulate the balance between carbon consumption and nitrogen acquisition by systemically controlling the nodule number through CLAVATA1 (CLV1)-like receptors. In Lotus japonicus, the CLV1-like receptor HYPERNODULATION ABERRANT ROOT FORMATION1 (HAR1) acts in shoots to regulate root nodulation and contributes to symbiotic C/N coordination. This raises the possibility that HAR1 may also influence plant growth and nitrogen utilisation beyond symbiotic nodulation. In this study, we showed that HAR1 plays a critical role in regulating nitrogen use to enhance growth under conditions of high nitrate availability, even in non-symbiotic environments. Unlike the wild-type, the har1 mutant failed to increase its growth in response to higher nitrate availability. This lack of growth response was associated with a lower rate of net biomass production per unit leaf area and a reduced capacity for biomass production per unit plant nitrogen. We further found that nitrate-responsive TCA cycle-related organic acids were higher in har1 leaves than in wild-type leaves even under low nitrate conditions. Because the HAR1 mutation did not affect photosynthetic traits, we propose that HAR1 promotes growth under non-symbiotic conditions by coordinating nitrogen utilisation with primary metabolism.},
}

@article {pmid42813798,
year = {2026},
author = {Tjahjono, O and Wang, J and Turner, E and Prell, J and Huang, WE and Poole, PS and Sánchez-Cañizares, C},
title = {Regulation of central carbon metabolism and storage polymers by PTS[Ntr] in Rhizobium leguminosarum.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0107326},
doi = {10.1128/aem.01073-26},
pmid = {42813798},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {The coordination of intracellular carbon and nitrogen levels is essential for optimal bacterial growth and, in rhizobia, for survival in the soil, root colonization, and symbiotic interactions with their host plants. Here, we show that the phosphotransferase system PTS[Ntr], a global regulator of carbon and nitrogen metabolism, modulates the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle activity and the accumulation of three major carbon storage polymers: glycogen, polyhydroxybutyrate, and exopolysaccharide in Rhizobium leguminosarum. The unphosphorylated form of the effector protein ManX is sufficient for the full activation of the TCA cycle dehydrogenase enzymes. Accordingly, loss of manX reduced dehydrogenase activity and redirected overflow carbon into storage polymers, phenocopying wild-type cells grown under nitrogen starvation. We further demonstrate that carbon metabolism in R. leguminosarum is also tightly regulated by the HPr kinase (HprK) protein. In an hprK mutant, loss of NPr Ser48 phosphorylation favors phosphotransfer through the histidyl arm and is predicted to increase phosphorylation of downstream PTS[Ntr] components. When grown on glucose, the hprK mutant accumulates elevated intracellular pyrimidine levels and exhibits increased malate dehydrogenase and TCA cycle activity, consistent with a misregulated shift toward gluconeogenesis. This mutant also overproduces exopolysaccharide, an effect potentially mediated by crosstalk between phosphorylated PtsN and the ChvI/ChvG two-component regulatory system. Together, these data suggest that HprK exerts pleiotropic control over processes regulated by PTS[Ntr], influencing central metabolism while repressing exopolysaccharide production, likely by promoting the unphosphorylated state of PtsN.IMPORTANCEBacteria must continuously balance growth, nutrient availability, and storage to ensure fitness and survival in fluctuating environments. However, how regulatory networks integrate central metabolism with carbon storage remains poorly understood. This study reinforces the role of the PTS[Ntr] system as a central coordinator of carbon routing and polymer accumulation. By revealing how ManX and HprK-dependent phosphorylation influence central metabolism and the production of major carbon storage polymers in Rhizobium leguminosarum, we show that disruption of PTS[Ntr] signaling reprograms carbon allocation, uncoupling growth from carbon storage and mimicking nitrogen starvation even under nitrogen-replete conditions. These findings highlight a regulatory link between carbon-nitrogen signaling and bacterial storage strategies, with implications for cellular survival and plant symbiosis. More broadly, our work illustrates how global metabolic regulators shape bacterial physiological states, providing new insights into mechanisms that support microbial adaptation in complex environments.},
}

@article {pmid42804279,
year = {2026},
author = {Nouioui, I and Neumann-Schaal, M and Pujic, P and Fournier, P and Abrouk, D and Vemulapally, S and Guerra, T and Hahn, D and Normand, P},
title = {Polyphasic taxonomic description of Frankia abietis sp. nov., Frankia limosa sp. nov., Frankia palustris sp. nov. and Frankia luti sp. nov. isolated from Alnus spp.},
journal = {International journal of systematic and evolutionary microbiology},
volume = {76},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/ijsem.0.007226},
pmid = {42804279},
issn = {1466-5034},
mesh = {*Frankia/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; *Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Alnus/microbiology ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Bacterial Typing Techniques ; Base Composition ; Nitrogen Fixation ; Fatty Acids/chemistry/analysis ; Finland ; Germany ; Symbiosis ; Nucleic Acid Hybridization ; },
abstract = {Frankia strain AiPa1[T] was isolated from root nodules of Alnus incana induced from soil under Picea abies in Finland. Strains AgKG'84/4[T], AgB32[T] and AgB1.8[T] were isolated from Alnus glutinosa nodules from Germany. AiPa1[T], AgB32[T] and AgKG'84/4[T] are infective on A. glutinosa and fix nitrogen in symbiotic nodules and pure culture, and strain AgB1.8[T] is infective on A. glutinosa but does not fix nitrogen and does not have the nif genes. Colonies of the four strains are white, and they form hyphae and sporangia. N2-fixing vesicles are formed by AiPa1[T], AgB32[T] and AgKG'84/4[T] in NH4[+]-free medium but not by AgB1.8[T]. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequence analyses showed AiPa1[T], AgB32[T] and AgKG'84/4[T] were in cluster 1 (Fig. S1), while strain AgB1.8[T] was in cluster 4. A whole-genome phylogeny confirmed this positioning. Digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) and average nucleotide identity (ANI) values between the four strains and all validly named Frankia species were below the defined threshold for prokaryotic species demarcation, with dDDH and ANI values at or below 64 and 71%, respectively. Strains AiPa1[T], AgB32[T] and AgKG'84/4[T] have genome sizes of 7.00, 6.40 and 6.71 Mb, respectively, while the genome size of AgB1.8[T] is 9.82 Mb. Phenotypic, physiological and phylogenomic analyses confirmed the assignment of strain AiPa1[T] (=DSM 114742[T]=LMG 32596[T]) to a novel species, for which the name Frankia abietis sp. nov. is proposed. Strain AgKG'84/4[T] (=DSM 114736[T]=LMG 32597[T]) is assigned to a novel species, for which the name Frankia limosa sp. nov. is proposed. Strain AgB32[T] (=DSM 114735[T]=LMG 32598[T]) is assigned to a novel species, with AgB32[T] as the type strain, for which the name Frankia palustris sp. nov. is proposed. Strain AgB1.8[T] (=DSM 114738[T]=LMG 33088[T]) is assigned to a novel species, for which the name Frankia luti sp. nov. is proposed.},
}

*Frankia/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
*Phylogeny
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Alnus/microbiology
DNA, Bacterial/genetics
Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology
Sequence Analysis, DNA
Bacterial Typing Techniques
Base Composition
Nitrogen Fixation
Fatty Acids/chemistry/analysis
Finland
Germany
Symbiosis
Nucleic Acid Hybridization

@article {pmid42804281,
year = {2026},
author = {Al Musawi, HK},
title = {The symbiotic shift: How AI is reshaping rehabilitation and the future of work.},
journal = {Work (Reading, Mass.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {10519815261491691},
doi = {10.1177/10519815261491691},
pmid = {42804281},
issn = {1875-9270},
abstract = {BackgroundThe rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into healthcare and industry is often framed as a threat to human roles. Within rehabilitation and occupational health, this polarized discourse risks obscuring more nuanced possibilities for human-AI collaboration.ObjectiveThis article challenges the dominant automation narrative by arguing that AI is instead catalyzing a symbiotic shift within rehabilitation and return-to-work contexts. It aims to conceptualize how AI can augment human expertise to create more personalized, efficient, and equitable outcomes across the rehabilitation-to-work continuum.MethodsA structured literature exploration was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, PsycINFO, and Scopus. An initial search covered literature published between 2018 and March 2024, followed by an updated search conducted on 3 April 2026, which identified five additional relevant publications.ResultsThe analysis reveals three interconnected domains of AI application. First, in clinical rehabilitation, AI enables data-driven precision through personalized therapeutic programs, computer vision for objective movement analysis, and predictive analytics for prognostic forecasting. Second, AI facilitates safer and more sustainable return-to-work transitions through objective functional capacity evaluations and AI-assisted job coaching, as illustrated in a hypothetical scenario. Third, AI fosters inclusive workplace integration through intelligent accommodations and skills redeployment, supporting sustained employment for individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions. The review also identifies critical ethical imperatives, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and equitable access, that must guide this integration to prevent the exacerbation of existing disparities.ConclusionWhen implemented ethically and collaboratively, AI does not replace human judgment but liberates rehabilitation professionals and workplace managers to focus on higher-order tasks of empathy, strategy, and complex decision-making. The future of work, therefore, lies not in automation alone, but in a human-AI partnership that builds a more adaptive, inclusive, and ultimately more humane environment. In this emerging paradigm, individuals are not simply returned to work but are empowered to thrive.},
}

@article {pmid42805044,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, H and Wang, X and Chen, Q and Dewancker, B},
title = {Optimizing peri-urban land cover configurations for multi-seasonal cooling: The cross-seasonal role of suburban parks.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {418},
number = {},
pages = {131027},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.131027},
pmid = {42805044},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Urban parks are recognized as nature-based solutions to mitigate urban heat island effects, but existing evidence is largely limited to urban cores and summer-only analysis. With severe spatial constraints in urban cores, suburban parks are increasingly prioritized for heat mitigation; yet, the cross-seasonal cooling efficacy and scale-dependent mechanisms of these peripheral green spaces remain critically underexplored. Unlike isolated urban parks, suburban parks are deeply embedded within a wider matrix of agricultural fields, natural vegetation, and wetlands, functioning as complex symbiotic systems. Targeting this gap, this study assesses the cross-seasonal cooling effects of 16 suburban parks and their surrounding land cover configurations in Hangzhou, China, using land surface temperature derived from single-year snapshots (based on meteorologically representative clear-sky observations) across four seasons in 2022. Four complementary indicators (cooling distance, area, intensity, and efficiency) were quantified to distinguish spatial extent from cooling strength. Spearman correlation analysis, Random Forest modeling, and K-means clustering were employed to identify dominant drivers and configuration-dependent patterns. The results show that suburban parks provided measurable cooling cross-seasonally, with peak intensity (mean 4.7 ± 1.5 °C) and spatial reach in summer. Cooling area increased consistently with park size, whereas cooling intensity and efficiency did not, indicating a non-linear scale-effect relationship. Surrounding land cover composition exerted stronger influence than park area alone, with driver importance shifting seasonally. Landscape typology analysis revealed that parks nested within farmland-dominated matrices maximized summer cooling, while heterogeneous water-farmland systems sustained more stable cooling across cooler seasons. While limited by the temporal constraints of specific clear-sky observations, these findings clarify seasonal variability, scale effects, and configuration-dependent cooling in suburban parks, providing actionable evidence for optimizing peri-urban green infrastructure within metropolitan thermal systems.},
}

@article {pmid42805421,
year = {2026},
author = {Wei, W and Xu, C and Wang, S and Wang, Y and Peng, J and Li, J and Zheng, X and Huang, Y and Chen, R and Zhong, S},
title = {Procyanidins and Bifidobacterium infantis alleviate anxiety and depression-like behavior in alcohol use disorder withdrawal mice via the gut-immune-brain axis.},
journal = {Brain, behavior, and immunity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107035},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbi.2026.107035},
pmid = {42805421},
issn = {1090-2139},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is frequently comorbid with anxiety and depression, conditions closely tied to gut microbiota dysbiosis, systemic inflammation, and immune imbalance-particularly between pro-inflammatory Th17 cells and regulatory T (Treg) cells. These peripheral immune perturbations can propagate neuroinflammation and disrupt central myelination, but the precise gut-immune-brain myelin cascade in AUD remains poorly defined.

PURPOSE: This study investigated whether a combination of procyanidins (PC) and Bifidobacterium infantis (B. infantis)-administered either individually or as a symbiotic- could ameliorate anxiety and depression-like behaviors in an AUD withdrawal mouse model. We hypothesized that these interventions would restore peripheral Treg/Th17 balance, reduce systemic and central neuroinflammation, and promote remyelination in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HIP).

STUDY DESIGN: An AUD withdrawal model was established using a 6-week ethanol "drinking-in-the-dark" paradigm. After withdrawal, mice received daily oral administration of procyanidins (50 mg/kg),B. infantis(1 × 10[7] CFU), their synbiotic combination, or saline for 28 days; a normal control group was included. Anxiety and depression-like behaviors were assessed by open field, elevated plus maze, tail suspension, and forced swim tests.

METHODS: Peripheral Treg (CD4⁺CD25⁺Foxp3⁺) and Th17 (CD4⁺IL-17A⁺) cell proportions and serum cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β, IL-17A) were quantified. Central cytokines and Treg/Th17 transcription factor (FoxP3,RORγt) mRNA levels were measured in the PFC and hippocampus. Myelin proteins (MAG, MOG, MBP) were analyzed by western blotting, and PFC myelin ultrastructure was examined by electron microscopy. Gut microbiota composition was profiled by 16S rRNA sequencing, and intestinal permeability markers (Zonulin, iFABP) were detected by immunohistochemistry. Integrative multi-system correlation analyses were conducted.

RESULTS: Mice receiving PC,B. infantis, or their synbiotic combination all showed reduced anxiety and depression-like behaviors, with comparable efficacy among the three treatment groups. This improvement coincided with a restored peripheral immune profile: Treg cells and IL-10/TGF-β increased, while Th17 cells and IL-17A decreased. In the PFC and HIP, IL-10 and TGF-β were elevated, while IL-17A decreased. Importantly, each intervention upregulated PFC myelin proteins (MAG, MOG, MBP) and increased myelin density.

CONCLUSION: Interventions with procyanidins,B. infantis, or their synbiotic combination ameliorate anxiety and depression-like behaviors in AUD withdrawal mice, likely through modulation of the gut-immune-brain axis. These treatments restore gut microbial ecology and barrier function, rebalance peripheral Treg/Th17 immunity, and enhance IL-10-mediated central anti-inflammatory signaling, thereby facilitating remyelination in the PFC. The integrated gut-immune-myelin-behavior correlations highlight a novel gut targeted strategy for treating AUD associated affective disorders.},
}

@article {pmid42806175,
year = {2026},
author = {Brubaker, M and Spence, S and Hart, M},
title = {AMF genotype and host identity determine AMF inoculant performance.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {36},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42806175},
issn = {1432-1890},
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/genetics/physiology/classification ; Soil Microbiology ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; *Genotype ; Symbiosis ; Phylogeny ; *Plants/microbiology ; *Glomeromycota/genetics/physiology ; },
abstract = {The use of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) as biofertilizers is limited by variable outcomes. Although differential outcomes among AMF and hosts are well documented, the relative importance of fungal identity, host identity, and soil nutrient availability in determining symbiotic outcomes remains unclear, particularly in soils containing resident AMF communities. We crossed five AMF isolates spanning a gradient of phylogenetic relatedness and ecological strategies with four host plant species under two soil nutrient levels in a greenhouse experiment. We quantified inoculant establishment and target gene abundance using isolate-specific digital droplet PCR assays and measured host responses as mycorrhizal responses for root biomass, shoot biomass, and shoot phosphorus content. Differential effects occurred in both directions: AMF isolates differed in their performance among hosts, and hosts differed in their responses to AMF isolates, including conspecific Rhizophagus isolates. AMF isolate identity was the strongest predictor of inoculant establishment and target abundance in roots and soil, whereas host identity explained much of the variation in plant responses. Rhizophagus irregularis isolates consistently established more successfully than other taxa and reached target gene root abundance several orders of magnitude greater than Acaulospora and Gigaspora. Plants inoculated with Gigaspora experienced the most positive growth response overall. Our results show that the ability of AMF inoculants to establish and proliferate within resident communities is largely independent of their capacity to benefit host plants. Thus, evaluating biofertilizer candidates solely on measures of host or fungal performance is insufficient; effective AMF inoculants must be assessed for both competitive establishment and mutualistic function across diverse host and soil communities.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/genetics/physiology/classification
Soil Microbiology
Plant Roots/microbiology
*Genotype
Symbiosis
Phylogeny
*Plants/microbiology
*Glomeromycota/genetics/physiology

@article {pmid42806395,
year = {2026},
author = {Hirose, M and Hirose, E},
title = {Molecular phylogeny implies exclusive, repetitive, convergent establishment of cyanobacterial symbiosis in didemnid ascidians (Tunicata: Ascidiacea: Didemnidae).},
journal = {Zoological letters},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42806395},
issn = {2056-306X},
abstract = {Despite the great diversity of the phylum Chordata, lifelong obligate symbiosis with cyanobacteria is only known in certain species belonging to four genera of didemnid ascidians: Didemnum, Diplosoma, Lissoclinum, and Trididemnum. This photosymbiosis in didemnid ascidians exhibits diversity in photosymbiont taxa, symbiont location in the host ascidian, and modes of vertical transmission of symbionts. While the family Didemnidae comprises over 600 colonial species, approximately 30 symbiotic species are known from tropical waters, alongside many non-symbiotic congeners. This study aimed to elucidate the evolutionary history of this unique photosymbiosis in the family Didemnidae by constructing molecular phylogenetic trees based on the partial sequences of two regions in the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (COI) and mapping the character states of photosymbiosis in each ascidian species harboring obligate photosymbionts onto the trees. The molecular phylogenetic trees generally supported the monophyly of Didemnum, Diplosoma, and Lissoclinum, but not that of Trididemnum. In contrast, the phylogenetic tree did not support the monophyly of the following character states of obligate photosymbiosis in ascidians: photosymbiont taxa (Prochloron, Synechocystis, and filamentous species), photosymbiont location (tunic, tunic cells, and peribranchial/common cloacal cavities), and modes of vertical transmission of photosymbionts in which the symbionts are attached to the larval trunk, collected by the rastrum, or transferred by tunic cells. These results suggest that obligate photosymbiosis with similar character states may have been exclusively established multiple times within the family Didemnidae. Because the modes of vertical transmission are closely associated with symbiont location, similar modes of vertical transmission may have evolved multiple times under similar colony structures and reproductive modes.},
}

@article {pmid42806690,
year = {2026},
author = {Firoozi, M and Mahdavinezhad, A and Shirzad, M and Motevaseli, E and Dalirfardouei, R and Modarressi, MH and Najafi, R},
title = {Biotechnological Approaches to Probiotics and Postbiotics through the Gut-Brain Axis Modulation.},
journal = {Iranian biomedical journal},
volume = {30},
number = {4},
pages = {193-211},
doi = {10.22034/IBJ.30.4.193},
pmid = {42806690},
issn = {2008-823X},
abstract = {The gut microbiome and gut-brain axis are central to systemic homeostasis, with dysbiosis implicated in neurodegenerative (Alzheimer's and Parkinson's) disorders and gastrointestinal conditions (inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and fibromyalgia). These conditions are marked by a reduction in beneficial taxa (e.g., Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Bifidobacterium) and an increase in harmful ones (e.g., Escherichia coli and Clostridium scindens). Probiotic, prebiotic, postbiotic, and symbiotic interventions show therapeutic promise, but results can vary. Biotechnological advances, including CRISPR-Cas9 and genetic kill-switch systems, enable precision-engineered probiotics and postbiotics, though concerns about safety, genetic stability, gene transfer, and immune compatibility persist. Encapsulation and nanoencapsulation strategies improve microbial viability and site-specific delivery; i.e., microencapsulating Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium animalis in alginate-pectin matrices enhances survival during freeze-drying, storage, and gastrointestinal transit. Advancing clinical translation requires integrating multi-omics and machine learning with bioengineering approaches. This review examines the microbial-neural interface and surveys emerging biotechnological strategies for improving microbial-based therapeutics.},
}

@article {pmid42809163,
year = {2026},
author = {Ngo, TT and Dang, QH and Le, NT and Kumla, J and Nguyen, DH and Pham, HND},
title = {New record of ectomycorrhizal association of the genus Nothojafnea in the Northern Hemisphere.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {36},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42809163},
issn = {1432-1890},
support = {VINIF.2021.DA00163//Quỹ Đổi mới sáng tạo Vingroup/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/classification/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification ; Phylogeny ; Vietnam ; DNA, Fungal/genetics ; *Pinus/microbiology ; DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/genetics ; Symbiosis ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; *Basidiomycota/classification/genetics/physiology ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; Seedlings/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Nothojafnea is recognized as an ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungal genus currently comprising only two species, both previously reported exclusively from the Southern Hemisphere. Although this genus has been taxonomically recognized, detailed descriptions of its ECM morphology and anatomical characteristics have remained limited and, in some cases, ambiguous. Simultaneously, molecular data for this genus deposited in the NCBI database are still quite limited, with a substantial proportion consisting of unpublished sequences. In this study, we report the first occurrence of Nothojafnea in Vietnam, based on ECM root tip samples obtained from symbiotic associations with 6-month-old Pinus kesiya seedlings. The identification was supported by an integrated approach combining detailed morphological characterization of ECM structures with multilocus phylogenetic analyses using ITS and LSU sequence data. These findings provide new insights into the diversity and biogeography of this genus, significantly extending its known distribution into Southeast Asia.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/classification/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification
Phylogeny
Vietnam
DNA, Fungal/genetics
*Pinus/microbiology
DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/genetics
Symbiosis
Sequence Analysis, DNA
*Basidiomycota/classification/genetics/physiology
Plant Roots/microbiology
Seedlings/microbiology

@article {pmid42800824,
year = {2026},
author = {Hill, CEL and Tilstra, A and El-Khaled, YC and Garcias-Bonet, N and Bonacker, VA and Novoa-Lamprea, A and Rich, WA and Ostendarp, M and Fox, MD and Carvalho, S and Peixoto, RS and Wild, C},
title = {Coral-associated denitrification is seasonally variable and species-specific.},
journal = {Communications biology},
volume = {9},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42800824},
issn = {2399-3642},
mesh = {Animals ; *Seasons ; *Anthozoa/metabolism/microbiology/physiology ; *Denitrification ; Symbiosis ; Species Specificity ; *Nitrogen/metabolism ; Nitrates/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Nitrogen (N) plays a critical role in coral growth, but maintaining an N-limited state is essential for coral-algal symbiosis stability. Coral-associated denitrifiers may help regulate excess N, though denitrification in corals remains poorly quantified. To better understand species-specific and environmental effects on the denitrification pathway, we investigated year-long denitrification dynamics in four Red Sea corals, using acetylene inhibition assays alongside physiological and environmental measurements. All species exhibited measurable denitrification activity, ranging from 0 - 0.8 nmol N cm[-2] h[-1] for Stylophora pistillata and Acropora sp., 0 - 0.4 nmol N cm[-2] h[-1] for Millepora dichotoma, and 0 - 2.0 nmol N cm[-2] h[- 1] for Dendrophylliidae indet. Denitrification displayed seasonal patterns, with higher rates in the spring/summer compared to autumn/winter, and we identified temperature, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and nitrate availability as key environmental drivers. Lastly, we observed up to fivefold higher denitrification rates in the fully heterotrophic azooxanthellate coral Dendrophylliidae indet, than among mixotrophic species harbouring Symbiodiniaceae. Our findings indicate that denitrifiers use both photosynthetically derived and environmental carbon (C), with DOC central in maintaining tight coupling of C and N cycling in coral holobionts. Additionally, denitrification is modulated by environmental conditions, highlighting its vulnerability to environmental change.},
}

Animals
*Seasons
*Anthozoa/metabolism/microbiology/physiology
*Denitrification
Symbiosis
Species Specificity
*Nitrogen/metabolism
Nitrates/metabolism

@article {pmid42801097,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, J and Wei, Y and Du, Y and Lan, G},
title = {Leaf nutrients regulate phyllosphere microbial dynamics in rubber trees.},
journal = {Plant diversity},
volume = {48},
number = {5},
pages = {997-1010},
pmid = {42801097},
issn = {2468-2659},
abstract = {Mechanisms underlying the assembly and succession of phyllosphere microbiota in rubber plantations are crucial for understanding ecosystem health and functionality, yet poorly understood. In this study, high-throughput sequencing was used to analyze the diversity, assembly mechanisms, and potential sources of phyllosphere microbial communities at developmental stages. Key findings include: (1) Epiphytic and endophytic bacterial diversity peaked at the budding stage, then decreased and subsequently showed a gradual increase again toward the senescence stage, primarily driven by leaf nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). However, epiphytic and endophytic fungal diversity was significantly regulated by leaf N and P. (2) Assembly processes exhibited niche differentiation: the assembly of epiphytic bacteria during the color-changing and stable stages was dominated by stochastic processes, while deterministic regulation prevailed in other stages and in endophytic communities. Both assembly and network complexity were driven by leaf N and K dynamics. Fungal network complexity and deterministic regulation, in both epiphytic and endophytic niches, were promoted by leaf N and P during early stages but gradually weakened thereafter. (3) Active material exchange occurred between epiphytic and endophytic niches, and below-ground niches contributed more significantly to the fungal community. Overall, our results underscores that leaf nutrients modulate the diversity, assembly, and resultant compositional landscape of phyllosphere microorganisms at different developmental stages. These insights contribute to deepening the fundamental understanding of plant-microbial symbiosis and inform strategies for the cultivation of rubber trees.},
}

@article {pmid42801307,
year = {2026},
author = {Pasari, N and Bhandhari, N and Shruti, and Kumar, R and Yazdani, SS and Sinharoy, S},
title = {CRISPR-Cas9 Genome Editing in Mesorhizobium ciceri Through nodC Disruption for Chickpea Symbiosis Studies.},
journal = {Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE},
volume = {},
number = {235},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3791/71513},
pmid = {42801307},
issn = {1940-087X},
mesh = {*Cicer/microbiology/physiology ; *Mesorhizobium/genetics/physiology ; Symbiosis/genetics ; *CRISPR-Cas Systems ; *N-Acetylglucosaminyltransferases/genetics ; *Gene Editing/methods ; },
abstract = {Mesorhizobium ciceri, a nitrogen-fixing symbiont of chickpea (Cicer arietinum), remains genetically challenging to manipulate using conventional homologous recombination approaches, which are labor-intensive and often leave undesirable selection markers. In this protocol, we describe a streamlined genome-editing strategy using a broad-host-range Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-associated protein 9 (Cas9) system adapted for M. ciceri. We demonstrate the efficacy of this method by targeting nodC, which encodes the N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase required for chitin backbone synthesis in Nod factors, the primary signaling molecules involved in symbiotic molecular communication. This protocol details the systematic design of single-guide RNAs (sgRNAs) and the construction of a homology-directed repair (HDR) template. The HDR template was designed to facilitate site-specific integration of a green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter flanking the nodC cleavage site. Following delivery of the Cas9/sgRNA/HDR construct through biparental mating, putative mutants were identified using a fluorescence-based screening approach. Successful disruption of the 1.3 kb nodC locus within the nodulation (nod) cassette was initially screened by visualization of GFP expression in mutant colonies using fluorescence microscopy. The disruption was further validated by restriction digestion, amplification of the integrated cassette from genomic DNA, and Sanger sequencing. GFP expression was additionally quantified by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. To validate the functional impact of the mutation, chickpea infection assays were performed, demonstrating impaired nodulation in plants inoculated with ΔnodC M. ciceri compared with the wild-type strain. Overall, this protocol provides an efficient and reproducible framework for precise gene disruption and functional genomics studies in Mesorhizobium.},
}

*Cicer/microbiology/physiology
*Mesorhizobium/genetics/physiology
Symbiosis/genetics
*CRISPR-Cas Systems
*N-Acetylglucosaminyltransferases/genetics
*Gene Editing/methods

@article {pmid42802136,
year = {2026},
author = {Bressan, ACG and Andrade, SAL},
title = {Arbuscular mycorrhizae in metalliferous and aluminum-rich soils.},
journal = {Functional plant biology : FPB},
volume = {53},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1071/FP26100},
pmid = {42802136},
issn = {1445-4416},
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology/metabolism ; *Aluminum/metabolism ; *Soil/chemistry ; Symbiosis ; Soil Microbiology ; *Metals/metabolism ; *Plants/microbiology/metabolism ; Rhizosphere ; },
abstract = {Metalliferous and aluminium (Al)-rich soils represent restrictive terrestrial environments where high concentrations of potentially toxic elements act as edaphic filters on plant communities. Since arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis can alleviate several environmental constraints, it may play an important role in plant performance in metalliferous and Al-rich soils. Here, we review current knowledge on the mechanisms and ecological relevance of AM symbiosis in naturally metalliferous and Al-rich ecosystems worldwide. Available evidence indicates that AM fungi (AMF) mitigate both trace metal and Al phytotoxicity through mechanisms including element sequestration, glomalin production, modulation of rhizosphere processes, and improvements in plant nutritional status and antioxidant responses. Cross-referencing global records of hyperaccumulator plants with genus-level mycorrhizal classifications further revealed that most trace metal- and Al-hyperaccumulating genera are potentially mycorrhizal, with AM being predominant in both groups. However, direct confirmation of these associations under natural conditions remains limited. The expression and effectiveness of AM symbiosis are also context dependent and vary with fungal identity, ecotypic differentiation, host-fungal compatibility, and environmental conditions. Current studies also indicate that metalliferous and Al-rich soils influence AMF community composition, although evidence for adaptive differentiation remains much more developed for metalliferous systems than for Al-rich systems. We conclude that identifying gaps in the knowledge of AMF diversity and function in metal- and Al-accumulating plants will benefit conservation and restoration efforts under environmental change.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology/metabolism
*Aluminum/metabolism
*Soil/chemistry
Symbiosis
Soil Microbiology
*Metals/metabolism
*Plants/microbiology/metabolism
Rhizosphere

@article {pmid42802244,
year = {2026},
author = {Hoffmann, A and Zenelt, W and Krawczyk, K},
title = {Development of a bacterial mixed culture preventing bacterial storage diseases of root vegetables.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42802244},
issn = {1573-0972},
mesh = {*Vegetables/microbiology ; *Bacteria/isolation & purification/growth & development/classification/enzymology/genetics ; *Plant Roots/microbiology ; *Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control ; *Microbial Consortia ; Soil Microbiology ; },
abstract = {The storage of root vegetables is a critical aspect of agricultural production, significantly impacting both the quality and quantity of produce available for consumption. This study aimed to develop a bacterial consortium capable of preventing storage bacterial diseases in root vegetables. A total of 225 bacterial strains were isolated from various ecological niches, including crops, peri-root soils, coastal dune soils, sewage sludge, and symbiotic bacteria of common insect pests. These strains were characterized for their ability to grow at storage temperatures (4 °C) and produce cellulase, lipase, protease, and chitinase enzymes. From 225 isolates, 24 strains exhibited the highest enzymatic activities were selected for mutual inhibition assays, resulting in the selection of four strains (SP65, Dv004, Dv008, and Dv024a) that demonstrated high growth rates and enzymatic activities. The selected strains grew at 4 °C (OD600 range: 0.061-0,190) and they exhibited the high intensity of production of the following enzymes measured as a halo diameter (cm) on bacterial medium: cellulase (from 1,4 to 1,8 cm), lipase (0,7) - 1,5), proteinase 1,2 - 1,6) and chitinase (0,3 - 0,4). These strains, identified as Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (SP65) and Serratia liquefaciens, were combined to form a bacterial consortium. The efficacy of this consortium was tested on potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), carrot (Daucus carota L.), celeriac (Apium graveolens L.), parsley (Petroselinum crispum Mill.), and onion (Allium cepa L.). The mixed culture was tested against bacterial soft rot pathogens including Pectobacterium carotovorum, Kosakonia cowanii, Enterobacter cloacae subsp. dissolvens and Burkholderia cepacia. For celeriac and parsley, the effect of inhibition of Pectobacterium carotovorum, Burkholderia cepacia, E. cloaceae subsp. dissolvens, Kosakonia cowanii, and the mixture of those pathogens were observed when pathogens were applied at concentration of 1,3 × 10[8] CFU mL[-1]. In case of onion the same effect of inhibition of growth of pathogens were observed only for P. carotovorum, and for B. cepacia at concentration of 1,3 × 10[8] CFU mL[-1]. The results demonstrated the potential of using a bacterial consortium as a biological control method to enhance the storage life and quality of root vegetables.},
}

*Vegetables/microbiology
*Bacteria/isolation & purification/growth & development/classification/enzymology/genetics
*Plant Roots/microbiology
*Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control
*Microbial Consortia
Soil Microbiology

@article {pmid42802658,
year = {2026},
author = {Ning, S and Yan, T and Wang, Z and He, X and Huang, H and Jiang, M and Sun, T and Song, C and Yan, L and Zhu, J},
title = {Age-Dependent Phosphorus Fractions Underpin Above - Belowground Nutrient Strategies in Plantation Forests.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70942},
pmid = {42802658},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {32572036//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32192431//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2026JH6/101100027//Natural Science Foundation of Liaoning Province/ ; XDB1670000//"Inner Mongolia Academician Workstation for Protective Forest Program and Desertification Control"/ ; //Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; XLYC2503060//Liaoning Revitalization Talents Program/ ; },
abstract = {Increasing atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition can stimulate tree growth, raising phosphorus (P) demand relative to supply and thereby intensifying relative P limitation. Yet how relative P limitation and above- and belowground resource-use strategies change during plantation development, and whether responses to chronic N enrichment vary with stand age, remain unclear. We integrated a synthesis of 926 observations from plantation forests across China with two co-located field experiments: a seedling P-addition bioassay and a 15-year N-addition experiment across a larch plantation chronosequence. Relative P limitation was strongest in young stands and weakened with age. This pattern coincided with coordinated shifts in resource-use strategies: leaf strategies shifted from conservative to acquisitive resource use, whereas root strategies shifted from self-reliant foraging to symbiotic acquisition. Chronic N addition further exacerbated relative P limitation, with young trees enhancing resorption of leaf nucleic acid P and lipid P and increasing reliance on rhizosphere secondary mineral P acquisition, whereas mature trees reallocated leaf P fractions. These findings link the age-related relaxation of P limitation to coordinated above- and belowground resource-use strategies and reveal that chronic N enrichment elicits age-specific adjustments in P acquisition, allocation and conservation, supporting age-specific management of plantation nutrient balance under global change.},
}

@article {pmid42802713,
year = {2026},
author = {Melkonian, K and Pellen, T and Bünger, K and Thiercelin, O and Le Ru, A and Rich, MK and Bianconi, ME and Keller, J and Bonhomme, M and Delaux, PM},
title = {Stepwise evolution of the developmental and symbiotic functions of DELLA in land plants.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71597},
pmid = {42802713},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {101105838 'SYMBIOLOSS'//H2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions/ ; 101001675-ORIGINS//HORIZON EUROPE European Research Council/ ; 536856410//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; ANR-10-LABX-41//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; ANR-18-EURE-0019//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; ANR-25-CE02-6382-01//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; },
abstract = {Proposed model for the stepwise evolution of DELLA functions in the green lineage.},
}

@article {pmid42803159,
year = {2026},
author = {Merkesvik, J and Langa, J and Pietroni, C and Alberdi, A and Poulsen, LL and Bojesen, AM and Meuronen, T and Turunen, S and Kärkkäinen, O and Westereng, B and Pope, PB and Hvidsten, TR},
title = {Integrative holo-omic data analysis predicts interactions across the host-microbiome axis.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0026326},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.00263-26},
pmid = {42803159},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Understanding the interplay between host organisms and their microbiomes is central to the development of sustainable food systems. However, high dimensionality and spurious associations remain major obstacles to extracting meaningful biological insight from multi-omic host-associated microbiome data; a challenge further exacerbated when "holo-omic" analyses across the host-microbiome boundary are considered. Here, we show that a computational method designed for multi-omic analysis in eukaryotes can be leveraged to integrate and analyze five layers of holo-omic data from porcine hosts and their gut microbiomes. We collected caecal tissue and digesta samples during a feeding trial that tested the impact of microbiota-directed fibers (acetylated galactoglucomannan) at critical developmental stages. From 800,000 features including microbial and host genes, metagenome-assembled genomes, and metabolites from caecal tissue and digesta, we used multiset correlation and factor analysis to select the most relevant features for capturing coordinated patterns across omic layers. From these features, we predicted over 2,000 putative host-microbiome interactions based on co-occurrence. Some interactions reflected previously known relationships between animal and microbiome features, such as microbial genes for carbohydrate metabolism being linked to glycoside abundances in host tissue. Other predicted co-occurrences included features that were not detected in single-omic analysis and offer new hypotheses of host-microbiome interactions that warrant future investigation. Hence, we showcase an application of holo-omic analysis that avoids common pitfalls in high-dimensional data analysis, identifies known interactions as a form of validation, and most importantly, predicts new leads for understanding host-microbiome symbiosis.IMPORTANCEWhile study systems involving mammalian hosts and their microbiomes are inherently complex, multi- and holo-omic analyses promise to provide interpretable results with translational value for the animal production industry. Unfortunately, computational methods capable of this kind of integration are currently scarce, as most existing multi-omics approaches have been developed for analysis of data layers within a single multicellular organism. We propose to adapt existing multi-omic methods for holo-omics by combining feature selection and interaction inference. This two-step analysis approach addresses common challenges in data-driven studies and can be implemented with a variety of tools for feature selection and interaction modeling. Through this holistic approach, we show that both known and novel relationships across the holobiont axis can be identified in a data-driven manner, offering new targets for the continued study and experimental validation of host-microbiome interactions and the effect of dietary interventions on production animals.},
}

@article {pmid42803295,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, W and Meng, Y and Meng, G and Mai, Y and Wu, C and Liu, D and Liu, F and Sun, J},
title = {Microbiota-Mediated Sequential Gallery Colonization by Adults and Larvae of an Invasive Bark Beetle.},
journal = {Integrative zoology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/1749-4877.70187},
pmid = {42803295},
issn = {1749-4877},
support = {2023YFC2604804//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 32522072//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024-2026QNRC//Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program by CAST/ ; C2023201034//Hebei Natural Science Foundation/ ; C2023201075//Hebei Natural Science Foundation/ ; QNTD202405//Excellent Youth Research Innovation Team of Hebei University/ ; },
abstract = {Symbiotic microbes play critical roles in facilitating the rapid adaptation of invasive insects to the defense systems in host plants. The host pine, Pinus tabuliformis, contains high levels of D-pinitol, which is inherently unsuitable for Dendroctonus valens, an invasive beetle in its introduced range in China. Our previous study has reported that gallery microbiota could degrade D-pinitol to enhance the larval adaptation. However, the adaptive strategies of adults and larvae under differential D-pinitol stress are not yet fully understood. In this study, we explored the D-pinitol-degrading capacity and potential sources of gallery microbiota and compared the structures and functions of D-pinitol-degrading microbes in the guts between adults and larvae. We confirmed that gallery microbiota, rather than native pine endophytes, are responsible for D-pinitol degradation and the formation of a low-pinitol microhabitat, and we postulate that adult beetles are the major contributors to gallery microbiota. Additionally, adult guts harbored a higher abundance of Erwinia and Serratia compared with larval guts and exhibited a stronger D-pinitol-degrading capacity. Our results indicate that adults and larvae employ distinct strategies to overcome differential D‑pinitol stress from host pines. Specifically, adult beetles enrich more D‑pinitol‑degrading microbes in their guts, whereas larvae mainly rely on the external degradation of gallery microbiota. These findings provide additional evidence supporting that the adults and larvae utilize detoxifying microbes to metabolize deterrent compounds and adapt to host pines at different developmental stages.},
}

@article {pmid42803588,
year = {2026},
author = {Zou, L and Wang, P and Yin, J and Ouwehand, K and Paas, F},
title = {Metabolic reality of cognitive load.},
journal = {The Behavioral and brain sciences},
volume = {49},
number = {},
pages = {e485},
doi = {10.1017/S0140525X26106050},
pmid = {42803588},
issn = {1469-1825},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cognition/physiology ; *Memory, Short-Term/physiology ; *Energy Metabolism/physiology ; Animals ; Adenosine Triphosphate/metabolism ; *Brain/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Haueis and Colaço argue that metabolic constraints should prune and generate cognitive models. Cognitive load theory offers an applied framework for testing these constraints. Working memory load can be viewed as the behavioral expression of local ATP limits. Primary-secondary knowledge, embodied offloading, and instructional efficiency map onto bioenergetic trade-offs. Extending CLT to human-AI symbiosis further shows how shared systems can support dynamic load balancing and testable metabolic predictions.},
}

Humans
*Cognition/physiology
*Memory, Short-Term/physiology
*Energy Metabolism/physiology
Animals
Adenosine Triphosphate/metabolism
*Brain/metabolism

@article {pmid42803773,
year = {2026},
author = {Ettinger, CL and Eisen, JA and Stajich, JE},
title = {Eukaryotic metagenome-assembled genomes recovered from deep metagenomic sequencing of the seagrass, Zostera marina, include a novel chytrid in the order Lobulomycetales.},
journal = {Microbial genomics},
volume = {12},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/mgen.0.001845},
pmid = {42803773},
issn = {2057-5858},
mesh = {*Zosteraceae/microbiology/genetics ; *Metagenome ; Phylogeny ; Metagenomics/methods ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; *Chytridiomycota/genetics/classification ; Genome, Fungal ; Diatoms/genetics/classification ; },
abstract = {Fungi play pivotal roles in terrestrial ecosystems as decomposers, pathogens and endophytes, yet their significance in marine environments is often understudied. Seagrasses, as globally distributed marine flowering plants, have critical ecological functions but knowledge about their associated fungal communities remains relatively limited. Previous amplicon surveys of the fungal community associated with the seagrass, Zostera marina, have revealed an abundance of potentially novel chytrids. In this study, we employed deep metagenomic sequencing to extract metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from these chytrids and other microbial eukaryotes associated with Z. marina leaves. Our efforts resulted in the recovery of five eukaryotic MAGs, including a single fungal MAG in the order Lobulomycetales (65% BUSCO completeness), three MAGs representing diatoms in the family Bacillariaceae (93%, 70% and 31% BUSCO completeness) and a single MAG representing a haptophyte alga in the genus Prymnesium (40% BUSCO completeness). Whole-genome phylogenomic assessment of these MAGs suggests they all largely represent undersequenced and possibly novel eukaryotic lineages. Of particular interest, the chytrid MAG was placed within the order Lobulomycetales, consistent with the identity of the dominant chytrid from previous Z. marina amplicon survey results. Annotation of this MAG yielded 5,650 gene models, of which 77% shared homology with current databases. Within these gene models, we predicted 121 carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) and 393 secreted proteins (103 cytoplasmic effectors, 30 apoplastic effectors). Exploration of orthologs between the Lobulomycetales MAG and existing Chytridiomycota genomes has revealed a landscape of high-copy gene families related to host recognition and interaction. Further machine learning analyses based on CAZyme composition classified this MAG's CAZyme profile as most consistent with a symbiotic lifestyle. Overall, these five eukaryotic MAGs represent substantial genomic novelty and valuable community resources, contributing to a deeper understanding of the roles of fungi and other microbial eukaryotes in the larger seagrass ecosystem.},
}

*Zosteraceae/microbiology/genetics
*Metagenome
Phylogeny
Metagenomics/methods
High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods
*Chytridiomycota/genetics/classification
Genome, Fungal
Diatoms/genetics/classification

@article {pmid42798876,
year = {2026},
author = {Dörr, M and Sharaf, A and Colin, L and Schuster, K and Bell, AC and Voolstra, CR},
title = {The genome of the coral model sea anemone Exaiptasia diaphana (Aiptasia) strain F003.},
journal = {GigaByte (Hong Kong, China)},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {gigabyte188},
pmid = {42798876},
issn = {2709-4715},
abstract = {We present a genome assembly of Aiptasia strain F003, a broadly used laboratory strain of the sea anemone and coral model Exaiptasia diaphana (Cnidaria; Anthozoa; Hexacorallia; Actiniaria; Aiptasiidae; Exaiptasia). The genome assembly spans 237.34 Mb across 12,480 contigs with a contig N50 of 76.47 kb (12,423 scaffolds with a scaffold N50 of 77.93 kb), including a single-contig mitochondrial genome with a length of 19.79 kb. The assembly is highly complete with a BUSCO completeness of 96.50% based on the metazoa dataset, comprising 94.80% single-copy and 1.70% duplicated BUSCO genes; 1.70% were fragmented and 1.80% were missing. Genome annotation identified 29,589 protein-coding genes (including 2 pseudogenes) and a repeat content of 32.89%. The genome of the female Aiptasia strain F003 enhances the utility of a key cnidarian model organism by enabling comparisons among Aiptasia strains in studies of symbiosis, microbiomes, and thermal stress. It thereby strengthens the value of Aiptasia as a model for investigating the mechanisms underlying coral holobiont function, response, and resilience to environmental change.},
}

@article {pmid42799762,
year = {2026},
author = {Seprianti, CV and Listiyowati, S and Surono, },
title = {Symbiotic interactions of dark septate endophytic fungi on shallot growth under drought stress.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {12},
pages = {},
pmid = {42799762},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Endophytes/physiology ; *Symbiosis ; Droughts ; Drought Resistance ; Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development ; Stress, Physiological ; *Ascomycota/physiology ; Biomass ; *Fungi/physiology ; Plant Leaves/growth & development/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Drought stress is one of the major factors limiting the growth and productivity of agricultural crops, including shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.). This study aimed to investigate the role of symbiotic associations between dark septate endophytes (DSEs) and shallot plants in improving growth performance, physiological responses, and yield under varying field capacity. A factorial completely randomized design was employed with two factors: DSE inoculation (without DSE, Cladophialophora nyingchiensis S51, and Diaporthe pandanicola TM1) and field capacity levels (100%, 80%, 50%, and 30% of available water). Observed parameters included vegetative growth, physiological responses, root colonization, and bulb yield. The results demonstrated that DSE inoculation significantly enhanced shallot plants' tolerance to drought stress. Cladophialophora nyingchiensis S51 exhibited superior performance in promoting vegetative growth, increasing plant height by 38%, root length by 122%, leaf biomass by 27%, and root biomass by 130% under severe drought conditions (30% field capacity). In contrast, Diaporthe pandanicola TM1 was more effective in enhancing root biomass (110%) and bulb formation (31%) under severe drought conditions (30% field capacity). Physiologically, both DSE inoculations increased chlorophyll content, reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation, and enhanced proline production, indicating improved adaptive responses to water deficit. Furthermore, both DSE inoculation increased bulb number and bulb weight across all field capacity levels. These findings demonstrate that C. nyingchiensis S51 and D. pandanicola TM1 have considerable potential as biological agents to improve drought tolerance and enhance shallot productivity in sustainable agricultural systems.},
}

*Endophytes/physiology
*Symbiosis
Droughts
Drought Resistance
Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development
Stress, Physiological
*Ascomycota/physiology
Biomass
*Fungi/physiology
Plant Leaves/growth & development/microbiology

@article {pmid42799775,
year = {2026},
author = {Sportès, A and Bruyant, P and Mjiyad, NEL and Wipf, D and Courty, PE},
title = {Fungal spatial organization predominates over grapevine host effects in shaping transcriptional programs of Rhizophagus irregularis.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {36},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42799775},
issn = {1432-1890},
support = {#24 CARN 0024-01//Institut Carnot Plant2Pro/ ; },
mesh = {*Vitis/microbiology ; *Glomeromycota/genetics/physiology ; *Mycorrhizae/genetics/physiology ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; *Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal ; Mycelium/genetics/physiology ; *Transcriptome ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Symbiosis ; Fungi ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) exhibit strong spatial organization, with the intraradical mycelium (IRM) interacting with host roots and the extraradical mycelium (ERM) exploring soil. However, the putative contributions of fungal spatial organization and/or host genotype to transcriptional regulation remain poorly understood. Here, we analysed the transcriptomic profiles of Rhizophagus irregularis in the intraradical mycelium (IRM) of ten grapevine rootstocks, while the extraradical mycelium (ERM) transcriptome was obtained from a pooled sample representing all rootstocks. By integrating RNA-seq datasets, we observed a clear and consistent separation between IRM and ERM transcriptomes, indicating that the spatial organization of the mycelium is the dominant driver of fungal gene expression. Across all rootstocks, 719 genes were consistently upregulated in the IRM (including fatty acid, sugar and general transporters) and 510 in the ERM (mainly associated with environmental sensing and metabolic processes), defining robust compartment-specific transcriptional signatures. Host genotype significantly modulated IRM transcriptional profiles, but this effect remained secondary to spatial differentiation. Importantly, no correlation was detected between host phylogenetic relatedness and fungal transcriptional profiles, indicating that transcriptional variation in R. irregularis is independent of host genetic relatedness. Taken together, our results support a model where transcriptional variation in R. irregularis is primarily structured by spatial organization, with host genotype only weakly tuning gene expression. These findings highlight the predominance of fungal spatial organization over host effects in shaping AMF transcriptional programs.},
}

*Vitis/microbiology
*Glomeromycota/genetics/physiology
*Mycorrhizae/genetics/physiology
Plant Roots/microbiology
*Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal
Mycelium/genetics/physiology
*Transcriptome
Gene Expression Profiling
Symbiosis
Fungi

@article {pmid42800287,
year = {2026},
author = {Delai, CV and Moura, FT and Klepa, MS and Assunção, MC and Kitagawa, HY and Ercole, TG and Ribeiro, RA and Nogueira, MA and Hungria, M},
title = {Phylogenomic analysis of Rhizobiaceae strains from the Cerrado biome, Brazil, reveals a novel genus, Brasilibacterium gen. nov., and three novel species: Brasilibacterium cachoeirinhense sp. nov., Brasilibacterium lagoinhense sp. nov., and Martinezella lalimensis sp. nov.},
journal = {Systematic and applied microbiology},
volume = {49},
number = {6},
pages = {126772},
doi = {10.1016/j.syapm.2026.126772},
pmid = {42800287},
issn = {1618-0984},
abstract = {Rhizobiaceae is one of the most representative families, encompassing rhizobial species, valuable allies in the sustainable production of legumes such as cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). Interestingly, beyond rhizobia, studies have increasingly reported the presence of a wide diversity of non-symbiotic bacteria that compose the microbiome of cowpea nodules. In this study, we performed a systematic analysis, with an emphasis on phylogenomic aspects, of 12 strains trapped from cowpea in soils of indigenous lands in Mato Grosso do Sul, Central-Western Brazil (Cerrado biome), which had been preliminarily characterized. The results highlighted the rich and little-explored Rhizobiaceae biodiversity, revealing a novel genus, Brasilibacterium gen. nov., and three novel species: Brasilibacterium cachoeirinhense sp. nov. (CNPSo 3794[T] = BR 15710[T] = LMG 34800[T]), Brasilibacterium lagoinhense sp. nov. (CNPSo 3920[T] = BR 15708[T] = 34801[T]), and Martinezella lalimensis sp. nov. (CNPSo 3959[T] = BR 15709[T] = LMG 34802[T]). However, none of the strains belonging to these novel species was able to re-nodulate cowpea or the promiscuous legumes Phaseolus vulgaris and Macroptilium atropurpureum, suggesting either the loss of symbiotic genes or their endophytic nature. In addition to the novel species accessed, "Rhizobium atlanticum", "Martinezella aureum", "Martinezella centroccidentale", "Martinezella hainanensis", and "Martinezella dioscoreae" were also identified based on genomic sequences, with the latter two reported for the first time in Brazil.},
}

@article {pmid42788617,
year = {2026},
author = {Wakabayashi, T and Mihara, H},
title = {From Management to Symbiosis: A Five-Layered Model of Negative Capability in Primary Care.},
journal = {Journal of evaluation in clinical practice},
volume = {32},
number = {6},
pages = {e70620},
doi = {10.1111/jep.70620},
pmid = {42788617},
issn = {1365-2753},
support = {0422005//Japan Community Healthcare Organaization/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Focus Groups ; Qualitative Research ; *Physician-Patient Relations ; *Primary Health Care/organization & administration ; Uncertainty ; Japan ; *General Practitioners/psychology ; Group Dynamics ; Attitude of Health Personnel ; Burnout, Professional/psychology ; },
abstract = {RATIONALE: Modern medicine has traditionally emphasised certainty, which may contribute to intolerance of uncertainty, physician burnout, and premature diagnostic closure. In recent years, the concept of 'Negative Capability' (NC) has emerged as a novel perspective to address this challenge.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to explore the perspectives of general practitioners (GPs) on the multi-layered roles of NC across individual cognition, the physician-patient relationship, and team dynamics, thereby developing a conceptual framework for clinical practice.

METHOD: We conducted a qualitative study using a hermeneutic phenomenological approach in Japan. Focus group interviews were held with a total of 12 participant-sessions (comprising 11 unique general practitioners and an academic philosopher specialising in NC, including one clinician who participated iteratively across sessions to enrich data depth). The verbatim data were analysed manually using the Steps for Coding and Theorisation (SCAT) method, ensuring credibility through continuous peer debriefing and member checking.

RESULTS: Clinical NC was conceptualised as five interconnected layers: (1) structural limitations of the medical paradigm, (2) individual transformation, (3) cultivation within a secure base, (4) joint engagement with uncertainty, and (5) inheritance of clinical philosophy. NC functions as an internal 'mental cane' for physicians, supporting a shift from managing uncertainty to remaining with it.

CONCLUSION: This perspective reframes clinical uncertainty from an individual cognitive burden to a shared relational space, alleviating the pressure to prematurely resolve it. This multi-layered approach provides a sustainable philosophy for primary care, supporting clinician well-being and helping clinicians move from rapid resolution towards more meaningful engagement with patients by relational care in complex clinical environments.},
}

Humans
Focus Groups
Qualitative Research
*Physician-Patient Relations
*Primary Health Care/organization & administration
Uncertainty
Japan
*General Practitioners/psychology
Group Dynamics
Attitude of Health Personnel
Burnout, Professional/psychology

@article {pmid42790160,
year = {2026},
author = {Kokarev, V and Rimskaya-Korsakova, N and Alfaro, KM and Dufour, SC},
title = {Exploring the applicability of SYBR stains for whole-mount high-resolution confocal microscopy of chemosymbiotic invertebrates.},
journal = {Micron (Oxford, England : 1993)},
volume = {208},
number = {},
pages = {104120},
doi = {10.1016/j.micron.2026.104120},
pmid = {42790160},
issn = {1878-4291},
abstract = {Localization of bacterial symbionts within host tissues and determination of their morphology are essential for unraveling the biology of chemosymbiotic marine invertebrates. Confocal microscopy offers the potential to visualize bacterial symbionts in whole-mount preparations of host animals or tissues with minimal sample preparation. Here, we investigated the applicability of SYBR stains for visualizing the distribution of symbionts in the gills of thyasirid bivalves and in the trophosome of the siboglinid Siboglinum fiordicum. We demonstrate that SYBR stains, particularly SYBR Gold and SYBR Safe, are suitable for visualizing extracellular symbionts in whole mounts of gills, as well as intracellular endosymbionts in cells of the trophosome in whole mounts of S. fiordicum. SYBR stains show potential for confocal microscopy of invertebrates with chemosynthetic symbionts, but their utility may depend on specific experimental design; for instance, in S. fiordicum, counterstaining with DAPI improved the visibility of symbionts. Contrary to previous descriptions, we show that in male S. fiordicum the trophosome is not confined to the posterior trunk but extends anteriorly to envelop the testes. We also document the gill structure of several thyasirid species, including the first published description of gill structure of Parathyasira dunbari. In general, SYBR Gold/Safe staining can be used as a quick screen for potential symbiont-bearing species in chemosynthetic environments or for monitoring symbiont populations in laboratory-maintained symbiont-dependent hosts.},
}

@article {pmid42790682,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, J and Xiang, Z and Shu, K and Zhu, H and Wang, J},
title = {Targeting extracellular vesicle-mediated tumor-immune symbiosis: From molecular mechanisms to translational implications.},
journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta. Reviews on cancer},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {189725},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbcan.2026.189725},
pmid = {42790682},
issn = {1879-2561},
abstract = {Symbiotic interactions between tumor cells and immune cells are key drivers of tumor progression and treatment resistance. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are key mediators of intercellular crosstalk within the tumor microenvironment. An increasing number of studies have demonstrated that EVs play a significant role in regulating tumor-immune symbiosis. Tumor cell-derived EVs can modulate the function of various immune cells within the microenvironment, mediating immune suppression and promoting tumor growth. Correspondingly, immune cells also produce EVs that promote malignant phenotypes in tumor cells, such as proliferation, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and treatment resistance. Targeting EV-mediated tumor-immune symbiosis has emerged as a promising strategy in cancer therapy. In this review, we introduce the biogenesis and heterogeneity of EVs, highlighting the bidirectional pro-tumoral crosstalk between tumor cells and immune cells. Furthermore, we summarize current therapeutic strategies targeting EVs to break tumor-immune symbiosis and offer perspectives on future directions in this advancing field.},
}

@article {pmid42790771,
year = {2026},
author = {Kamilari, M and Giannatos, G and Bourtzis, K and Tsiamis, G and Augustinos, AA},
title = {Egg-stage desiccation reduces developmental success and reveals line-dependent Wolbachia-associated costs in the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata.},
journal = {Journal of insect physiology},
volume = {174},
number = {},
pages = {105068},
doi = {10.1016/j.jinsphys.2026.105068},
pmid = {42790771},
issn = {1879-1611},
abstract = {The Mediterranean fruit fly (medfly), Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann, 1824) is a major agricultural pest, and egg desiccation is a critical constraint during handling and mass-rearing, as even short periods without moisture may compromise developmental success and downstream adult performance. The Wolbachia-medfly symbiosis is a relatively recently established artificial association, generated less than three decades ago using Rhagoletis cerasi as the Wolbachia donor. In this study, we evaluated the effects of egg-stage desiccation on developmental success and subsequent adult performance in three medfly lines differing in Wolbachia status: the uninfected Benakeion line, the wCer2-infected 88.6 line, and the wCer4-infected S.10.3 line. Eggs were exposed to desiccation for 0-24 h at 4-h intervals before transfer to larval diet, and hatching, pupation, and adult emergence were recorded. Adult survival without food and water provision was also assessed for flies emerging from the 0, 8, and 10 h egg-desiccation treatments. Under control conditions, Benakeion showed the highest hatching and developmental success, S.10.3 the lowest, and 88.6 intermediate performance. Egg-stage desiccation strongly reduced developmental success, with the clearest losses after prolonged exposure. Baseline developmental performance differed among lines, with Benakeion showing the highest egg-based success, S.10.3 the lowest, and 88.6 intermediate values. Baseline-normalized profiles and binomial generalized linear models showed that the strongest evidence for a line-specific proportional response to desiccation occurred at hatching, whereas cumulative pupation and emergence were driven mainly by desiccation duration and baseline line differences. In the adult follow-up, line identity rather than egg-stage desiccation was the main determinant of of survival under starvation-dehydration stress. Among desiccated-origin adults, S.10.3 again showed the weakest performance. These results indicate that egg-stage desiccation primarily acts at the hatching bottleneck and that the wCer4-infected S.10.3 line shows the strongest line-associated performance cost. Beyond providing insight into the Wolbachia-medfly artificial symbiosis, our findings are directly relevant to egg-handling and strain-evaluation protocols in medfly mass-rearing systems for sterile insect technique (SIT), incompatible insect technique (IIT) or other related genetic insect pest control applications.},
}

@article {pmid42792598,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Q and Yang, W and Su, J and Lv, W and Wang, L and Xu, S and Chang, Q and Gong, M},
title = {Transcriptome Analysis of Populus tomentosa Reveals Molecular Mechanisms of Jasmonate Signaling Pathway on Arsenic Tolerance Induced by Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {15},
number = {18},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology15181653},
pmid = {42792598},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {No. 31870093 and No. 31800096//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No. 242300420144//Henan Academy of Sciences/ ; No. 242102110158, No. 252102110192 and No. 252102110148//Henan University of Science and Technology/ ; },
abstract = {Arsenic (As) pollution poses serious threats to soil ecosystems and plant growth. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been confirmed to enhance As tolerance in host plants, making mycorrhizal-assisted phytoremediation a promising and practical strategy for remediating As-contaminated soils. Populus tomentosa Carr. (Chinese white poplar) is a native fast-growing woody species suitable for phytoremediation in East Asia. However, comprehensive transcriptomic analyses focusing on the molecular mechanisms by which AMF improve As tolerance in this species remain limited. In this study, a pot-based experiment was performed on P. tomentosa seedlings using a two-factor experimental design with four treatments: non-inoculated seedlings under non-As stress (CK0), non-inoculated P. tomentosa seedlings under As stress (CK100), Rhizophagus irregularis-inoculated seedlings under non-As stress (Ri0), and R. irregularis-inoculated seedlings under As stress (Ri100). Plant-growth measurements, root morphological assessment, and Illumina RNA-seq transcriptomic analysis were applied to characterize seedling responses. Our results revealed that As stress significantly inhibited AMF colonization rate, suppressed seedling growth, and disrupted root morphological architecture. Nevertheless, R. irregularis inoculation substantially alleviated As-induced growth repression, increasing plant height, shoot and root dry biomass, as well as key root morphological parameters under As exposure. Transcriptome profiling identified large sets of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) triggered by AMF symbiosis and As stress. Functional enrichment indicated that signal transduction of jasmonate (JA) biosynthesis and metabolism represented the dominant response pathways. AMF symbiosis dynamically rewrote the transcriptional patterns of core JA biosynthesis and metabolism genes in P. tomentosa seedlings under As stress. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis further highlighted hub transcription factors, including GATA5 and WRKY57, which were tightly co-expressed with JA-synthesis-related genes and potentially bridged mycorrhizal symbiotic signals and downstream defense responses. These findings illustrated that AMF enhanced As tolerance in P. tomentosa seedlings by reprogramming JA-associated transcriptional regulatory networks. This study provided novel mechanistic insights for understanding AMF-wood plant-As interactions, and offered theoretical support for developing AMF-assisted poplar phytoremediation technology in As-contaminated soils.},
}

@article {pmid42793314,
year = {2026},
author = {Chasov, V and Mukhametshin, S and Valiullina, A and Skibo, Y and Zhumabekova, M and Zharlyganova, D and Keyer, V and Kydyrbayeva, A and Shustov, A and Bulatov, E},
title = {CAR-T Cell Therapy and Gut Microbiota Modulation in Multiple Sclerosis: Emerging Therapeutic Strategies and Current Limitations.},
journal = {Current issues in molecular biology},
volume = {48},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cimb48090958},
pmid = {42793314},
issn = {1467-3045},
support = {BR25293293//Ministry of Healthcare of the Republic of Kazakhstan/ ; FZSM-2025-0001//Ministry of Science and Higher Education/ ; },
abstract = {Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by the destruction of the myelin sheath around nerve cells. The prevalence and serious consequences of MS highlight the shortcomings of existing treatments and the importance of developing innovative therapeutic approaches. Based on successful pilot studies in patients and an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model, CAR-T cells offer a novel therapeutic mechanism by directly targeting and eliminating B cells, overcoming the shortcomings of antibody-mediated B cell depletion, which is unable to penetrate deep into the CNS. Recent discoveries have also revealed an important role for the gut microbiota in maintaining immune homeostasis. In a state of homeostasis, there is a symbiotic relationship between host factors and the microbiota that helps to maintain a healthy state. However, alterations in the composition and function of the gut microbiota, known as gut dysbiosis, can disrupt this homeostasis. The microbiota, through its metabolites, can influence not only internal processes in the gut but also the CNS in MS. Therapeutic interventions that help restore the balance of the gut microbiota may be a promising additional treatment to existing therapies to alleviate symptoms and promote remission in patients with MS.},
}

@article {pmid42795458,
year = {2026},
author = {Pérez-Ferrer, PA and Nishiguchi, MK},
title = {You Talking to Me? Quorum Sensing in Symbiotic Microbes and Their Response to Environmental Variation.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14091876},
pmid = {42795458},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {NSF DBI-2214028//U.S. National Science Foundation/ ; NIH 5T34GM145511-03//NIH 5T34GM145511-03/ ; },
abstract = {Bacterial communication or quorum sensing (QS) is a common yet complex system where multiple factors influence the extent to how this chemical dialog is transferred from a single clone to the larger community of microbes in the population. More often, when bacteria are in large concentrations, their genetic and subsequent biochemical response to different chemical cues is influenced by not only which microorganisms are present but also the environmental variables that surround those individuals. This is especially relevant when symbiotic bacteria are dependent upon host functions yet are in high enough concentrations that can manifest their own behaviors in response to the present host prior, during, and after colonization. This review will examine the various abiotic and biotic factors that regulate QS when bacteria are in the process of detecting, colonizing, and persisting in a host that uptakes its microbial partner from the environment, as well as the consequences of multiple stressors on this dynamic communication process.},
}

@article {pmid42795650,
year = {2026},
author = {Korzekwa, K and Bisak, A and Lepionka, T and Obuch-Woszczatyńska, O and Bylińska, K and Kauc, A and Skuza, K and Zaborski, B and Krzyżowska, M},
title = {Re-Emerging Bacterial Pathogens, Resistance Genes and Promising Bioindicators in Raw and Treated Sewage-Addressing a Known Issue from a Different Angle and Perspective.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14092069},
pmid = {42795650},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {357/2021/DA//Ministry of National Defence/ ; },
abstract = {Municipal wastewater catchments are significant sources of symbiotic, opportunistic, and drug-resistant bacteria that can acquire or enhance their resistance. This "re-emergence of threats" presents a serious public health issue, especially during crisis conditions (COVID-19). The aim of this study was to propose a sampling algorithm, identify strategically important sites within the wastewater catchment, expand the range of bacterial indicators, and rapidly confirm potential threats using in vitro diagnostics in both raw and treated sewage. A parallel objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of sequencing methods in pre-epidemic studies. The research was conducted as part of a long-term surveillance program at transportation hubs, healthcare facilities, residential complexes, and wastewater treatment plants in Warsaw, Poland. Total nucleic acid (TNA) was isolated from samples, amplified using qPCR kits, and selected samples underwent next-generation sequencing. In raw sewage, the most frequently detected regions included sequences complementary to the bacterial vanB gene, the Integron Verona-encoded metallo-β-lactamase (VIM) gene, and markers for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Treated environmental effluents primarily contained DNA fragments complementary to the bacterial vanB sequence, along with genes related to resistance against oxacillin and imipenem, as well as the VIM gene and Legionella sp. 16S rRNA sequencing of the sewage samples revealed the presence of 12 promising bacterial indicators relevant to public health and environmental hygiene. The proposed algorithm aligns with the provisions of EU Directive 2024/3019 and in vitro diagnostic tests demonstrated the potential and utility of rapid screening analyses of wastewater during disruptions or crises, as well as in situations involving equipment shortages and logistical challenges in healthcare. The proposed expanded range of bioindicators could expedite decision-making regarding preventive measures and medical support for various counties, hospitals, and transportation hubs in large urban areas. The sequencing results further emphasized the need to broaden the scope of the bacterial indicators for environmental surveillance.},
}

@article {pmid42795698,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, J and Liu, W and Sun, Y and Shi, J and Liu, M and Dai, Y and Zuo, Y and Yao, Q},
title = {Dynamic Assembly and Multifunctional Roles of Plant Endophytic Microbiomes.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14092118},
pmid = {42795698},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {HT-2026-01-003//Heilongjiang Plant Protection Society of China/ ; XYB202010//Talent Introduction Project of Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University/ ; XYB202005//Talent Introduction Project of Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University/ ; HST2025TR008//Research Project on Ecological Environment Protection in Heilongjiang Province/ ; },
abstract = {Healthy host plants harbor taxonomically structured and diverse endophytic microbial communities that establish sophisticated symbiotic crosstalk with their hosts. These endophytic microbiomes confer multiple beneficial traits, including growth promotion, nutrient acquisition, and enhanced resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and are increasingly recognized as key modulators of plant fitness. The assembly of endophytic communities is not random but shaped by combined effects of environmental cues, host filtering, and microbial-microbial interactions, among which plant immunity constitutes an important host-selection dimension. Beneficial endophytes deploy diverse molecular tactics, such as masking microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) and secreting immune-suppressive compounds, to evade host PAMP-triggered immunity and effector-triggered immunity (PTI-ETI) surveillance for persistent internal colonization. In this review, based on the literature retrieved from Web of Science Core Collection and Scopus (2010-2026), we systematically summarize the colonization process, dynamic assembly rules, and driving factors of plant endophytic microbiomes. We further elaborate their multifaceted physiological functions in regulating plant growth, nutrient utilization, and stress adaptation. Deciphering such multilayered plant-endophyte interactions provides important insights for harnessing beneficial endophytes to advance sustainable agricultural development.},
}

@article {pmid42796595,
year = {2026},
author = {Farid, MS and Sienkiewicz, M and Łopusiewicz, Ł},
title = {Beyond Tea: Kombucha SCOBY as a Starter Culture Across Food Matrices.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {18},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules31183309},
pmid = {42796595},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {INT0400128//European Union/ ; },
mesh = {Fermentation ; *Food Microbiology ; *Yeasts/metabolism ; *Tea ; *Kombucha Tea/microbiology ; *Bacteria/metabolism ; },
abstract = {The kombucha symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) is a multispecies microbial consortium distributed between cell-containing fermentation liquid and a cellulose-rich pellicle. Here, "kombucha SCOBY" denotes the viable consortium delivered through either compartment or both compartments. Dominated by fermentative yeasts and acetic acid bacteria, the consortium produces ethanol and organic acids and biotransforms phenolic compounds, enabling fermentation beyond conventional sweetened teas. This review critically evaluates studies in which viable consortia directly fermented food matrices. In dairy systems, kombucha-derived inocula acidify milk and induce casein gelation, although more slowly than yogurt starters, and kombucha broth has also supported fresh cheese production. In soy-based matrices, fermentation converts isoflavone glucosides to aglycones, and fermented soy whey can coagulate tofu. Applications have also been reported in fruit and vegetable juices, agro-industrial by-products, botanical infusions and breadmaking. However, microbial composition and performance vary with the inoculum source, propagation history, and storage. Strain-defined preserved starters remain unvalidated in non-tea matrices, and potential hazards include mycotoxin formation and post-production ethanol accumulation. Therefore, standardized, comprehensively characterized, and matrix-specific starters are required for safe and reproducible translation across food matrices.},
}

Fermentation
*Food Microbiology
*Yeasts/metabolism
*Tea
*Kombucha Tea/microbiology
*Bacteria/metabolism

@article {pmid42796847,
year = {2026},
author = {Tunç, M and Uğurlar, F and Rufaioğlu, SB and İpekeşen, S and Yorulmaz, L and Okur, M and İpekeşen, D and Biçer, BT},
title = {Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Molybdenum Act on Different Components of the Cowpea Plant-Soil System Under Salinity.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {18},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15182816},
pmid = {42796847},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {ZİRAAT.26.035//Dicle University Scientific Research Projects (DÜBAP) Coordinatorship/ ; },
abstract = {This study evaluated the combined effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and two molybdenum (Mo) doses on cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L., cv. Karnıkara) grown under saline and non-saline soil conditions. A greenhouse experiment was conducted using a 2 × 6 factorial design with three replications, and morphological, physiological, biochemical and mycorrhizal traits were measured. The Mo doses were deliberately set above the agronomic range in order to test how the symbiosis behaves under Mo excess. Salinity reduced fresh root weight by 53% and root length by 30%, whereas stomatal conductance and soil catalase activity increased by 87% and 379%, respectively. None of the treatments changed plant height, plant fresh weight, stomatal conductance, root length or root fresh weight: the main treatment effect and the treatment × soil interaction were not significant for any plant growth trait. Under saline conditions, AMF applied alone produced the highest mycorrhizal density (3.7%), and the addition of Mo reduced it, indicating a dose-dependent suppression of colonization rather than a synergistic enhancement. The AMF × Mo interaction was significant for soil enzyme activities but not for plant biomass, indicating that the combination acted mainly on the soil biochemical compartment. Overall, AMF and Mo influenced largely separable components of the cowpea plant-soil system under salinity. Under the experimental conditions, AMF application under salinity was associated with more favorable responses in terms of root development and stomatal characteristics, whereas the combined application of supra-optimal Mo doses with AMF did not provide a marked improvement in these responses. These results should be interpreted within the context of the application doses and experimental conditions used in this study. Further field studies encompassing different soil properties, salinity levels, Mo doses, and growing conditions are needed before these findings can be directly generalized to broader agronomic conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42796870,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, W and Meng, F and Rao, D and Yao, X},
title = {Continuous Cropping Differentially Regulates Nitrogen Metabolism and Nodulation in Soybean Cultivars with Contrasting Continuous Cropping Tolerance Under Varied Nitrogen Levels.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {18},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15182839},
pmid = {42796870},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {2024YB023//Scientific Research Fund of Hebei Normal University of Science & Technology/ ; SJ2025003//Science and Technology Innovation Project of Sanjiang Laboratory of Jilin Province: Breeding and Popularization of New Soybean Varieties with High Oil, High Protein and High Yield Project/ ; CXGC2022RCB002//Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Project of Jilin Province/ ; CXGC2022RCB010//Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Project of Jilin Province/ ; },
abstract = {Continuous cropping obstacles severely restrict soybean production; nitrogen application can alleviate continuous cropping obstacles. However, it remains unclear how nitrogen metabolism and nodulation differ between soybean cultivars with contrasting continuous cropping tolerance under varied nitrogen levels. In this study, two soybean cultivars, Liaodou 14 (L14, continuous-cropping-tolerant) and Liaodou 10 (L10, continuous-cropping-sensitive), were cultivated in a sand culture system. Three nitrogen levels, low (LN), medium (MN), and high (HN), were set with three soybean soil extract treatments, namely continuous cropping (CC), continuous cropping + sodium orthovanadate (CS), and crop rotation (CR). Key nitrogen metabolic enzyme activities and gene expression in leaves and fine roots, nodule number, nitrogenase activity, and nitrogen content were systematically determined. The results show that the CC treatment significantly inhibited nitrogen metabolism enzyme activities, gene expression, and nitrogen accumulation, whereas the HN treatment partially alleviated the growth-related inhibitory effects induced by continuous cropping, although HN treatment did not fully restore symbiotic nitrogen fixation function. Under the CC treatment, L14 exhibited superior performance over L10 for most measured parameters, except for GDH activity and GmNADH-GOGAT expression. Specifically, the leaf NR activity of L14 was 8.51% and 8.47% higher than that of L10 at the R1 and R6 growth stages, respectively. The maximum nodule number was observed under the HN treatment, while the highest nitrogenase activity occurred under the LN treatment. Most indicators under the CS treatment showed intermediate values between the CC and CR treatments. Collectively, through optimized nitrogen management, continuous-cropping-tolerant cultivars maintain higher enzyme activities, stable gene expression and efficient nitrogen translocation and allocation, potentially alleviating continuous cropping obstacles and improving yield potential.},
}