@article {pmid40283107,
year = {2025},
author = {Mugivhisa, LL and Manganyi, MC},
title = {Green Catalysis: The Role of Medicinal Plants as Food Waste Decomposition Enhancers/Accelerators.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15040552},
pmid = {40283107},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {The escalating global issue of food waste, valued at billions of USD annually and significantly impacting sustainability across social, economic, and environmental dimensions, necessitates innovative solutions to enhance waste management processes. Conventional decomposition techniques frequently encounter challenges related to inefficiencies and extended processing durations. This investigation examines the potential contributions of medicinal plants as green catalysts in the decomposition of food waste, utilizing their bioactive compounds to mitigate these obstacles. Medicinal plants facilitate the decomposition process through various mechanisms as follows: they secrete enzymes and metabolites that aid in the disintegration of organic matter, enhancing microbial activity and soil pH and structure. Furthermore, they foster nitrogen cycling and generate growth regulators that further optimize the efficiency of decomposition. The symbiotic associations between medicinal plants and microorganisms, including mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobacteria, are also instrumental in enhancing nutrient cycling and improving rates of decomposition. The utilization of medicinal plants in food waste management not only accelerates the decomposition process but also underpins sustainable practices by converting waste into valuable compost, thereby enriching soil health and lessening dependence on chemical fertilizers. This methodology is congruent with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and presents a plausible trajectory toward a circular economy and improved environmental sustainability.},
}

@article {pmid40282725,
year = {2025},
author = {Pei, Y and Zheng, Y and Yuen, M and Yuen, T and Yuen, H and Peng, Q},
title = {Preparation, Quality Analysis and Antioxidant Activity of Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) Kombucha Beverage at Different Fermentation Temperatures.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods14081325},
pmid = {40282725},
issn = {2304-8158},
support = {No. GXPSMM24-2//Guangxi Key Laboratory for Polysaccharide Materials and Modifications/ ; No. 2023-Y-05//the Science and Technology Project of Xining/ ; No. 2023-Y-05//Northwest A&F University College Students' Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Programme/ ; },
abstract = {Sea buckthorn is a unique resource with high nutritional value. The objective of this study was to develop a novel kombucha beverage from sea buckthorn juice by means of inoculation with kombucha (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast, SCOBY). The study investigated and compared the differences in physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, and sensory evaluation during fermentation at different temperatures with those of traditional cultured green tea kombucha. The findings demonstrated that there were significant variations in physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, and sensory evaluation among the sea buckthorn kombuchas produced at different temperatures. Among these, the sea buckthorn kombucha produced by fermentation at 28 °C exhibited the strongest antioxidant properties and the most favorable sensory evaluation. Furthermore, changes in the active substances were observed at different temperatures, and correlation analysis revealed that the antioxidant activity of Kombucha tea was correlated with the content of total phenols and total flavonoids. Consequently, the utilization of sea buckthorn juice in the production of kombucha beverages holds considerable promise.},
}

@article {pmid40282266,
year = {2025},
author = {Palma Esposito, F and López-Mobilia, A and Tangherlini, M and Casella, V and Coppola, A and Varola, G and Vitale, L and Della Sala, G and Tedesco, P and Montano, S and Seveso, D and Galli, P and Coppola, D and de Pascale, D and Galasso, C},
title = {Novel Insights and Genomic Characterization of Coral-Associated Microorganisms from Maldives Displaying Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and UV-Protectant Activities.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology14040401},
pmid = {40282266},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {20A02494//Ministero dell'Università e della Ricerca (MUR, Roma)/ ; 101082304//European Union/ ; SBEP2023-61//European Union/ ; 101072475//European Union/ ; },
abstract = {Coral reef survival is crucial for the socio-ecological interest of many countries, particularly for the Republic of Maldives, whose reef integrity influences the country's livelihoods and economy. These ecosystems are being severely impacted by multiple stressors, leading to declines in biodiversity. In the last few decades, researchers have focused on studying coral-associated microorganisms (CAMs) and their symbiotic role in coral health and resilience. Metabarcoding analysis has been widely utilized to study CAM diversity under various conditions but provides limited information on their functional roles. Therefore, cultivation of bacterial strains remains indispensable for validating ecological and biotechnological hypotheses. In this study, we investigated the microbial community associated with two abundant corals in Maldives, Porites lobata and Acropora gemmifera, and evaluated the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and UV-protectant properties of 10 promising isolated strains. The selected CAMs, Pseudoalteromonas piscicida 39, Streptomyces parvus 79, Microbacterium sp. 92 (a potential novel species), and Micromonospora arenicola 93, exhibited antibiotic activity against a panel of pathogenic strains (MIC from 0.01 to 500 µg/mL), antioxidant (comparable effect to that of Trolox and ascorbic acid), and UV-screen activities (protection of human keratinocytes at 200 µg/mL). Genomes revealed their dual potential in contributing to coral restoration and drug discovery strategies. These findings highlight the biotechnological relevance of CAMs, representing an important step toward the identification of novel and bioactive bacterial species beneficial for coral reef ecosystems and human health.},
}

@article {pmid40282227,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, X and Jia, X and Zhao, Y and Xie, Y and Meng, X and Wang, F},
title = {Diversity of nifH Gene in Culturable Rhizobia from Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) Grown in Cadmium-Contaminated Soils.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology14040362},
pmid = {40282227},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {2024RS-CXTD-55//Innovation Capability Support Program of Shaanxi/ ; },
abstract = {(1) Background: Rhizobia can promote plant growth by providing essential nutrients such as NH4[+] and PO4[3-]; thus, rhizobia that can tolerate the stress of heavy metals will be conducive to the phytoremediation of heavy-metal-contaminated soils. Therefore, understanding the dominant heavy-metal-tolerant rhizobia that can be cultured is important for the establishment of an indigenous legume-rhizobia symbiotic remediation system; (2) Methods: Here, we investigated nifH gene diversity in culturable rhizobia from black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) grown in cadmium (Cd)-contaminated soils using high-throughput sequencing.; (3) Results: A total of 16 genera and 26 species were identified from the cultures of root nodules of black locust exposed to five Cd levels. Cadmium did not show a significant effect on the abundance, diversity, and evenness of the culturable rhizobia community. However, Cd significantly affected the community structure of culturable rhizobia containing nifH. Mesorhizobium, Sinorhizobium, and Rhizobium were the absolute dominant genera present in the cultures under five Cd treatments. Additionally, Cd significantly affected the relative abundance of Azohydromonas, Xanthobacter, Skermanella, Bradyrhizobium, Paenibacillus, and Pseudacidovorax in the cultures. Soil pH, total Cd, DTPA-Cd, and C/H ratio were the significant factors on culturable rhizobia community.; (4) Conclusions: Cd showed a negative effect on nifH gene community of culturable rhizobia from black locust, which will provide insight into the selection of excellent strains that can promote phytoremediation of heavy-metal-contaminated soils.},
}

@article {pmid40282206,
year = {2025},
author = {Hidri, R and Zorrig, W and Debez, A and Mahmoud, OM and Zamarreño, AM and García-Mina, JM and Nait Mohamed, S and Abdelly, C and Azcon, R and Aroca, R},
title = {Role of Rhizophagus intraradices in Mitigating Salt Stress of Sulla carnosa Through Modulating Plant Hormones (ABA, SA, and JA) and Nutrient Profile.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology14040341},
pmid = {40282206},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {PID2023-151376NB-I00//Ministry of Science, Innovationa and Universities/ ; },
abstract = {Salt accumulation can degrade soil properties, decrease its productivity, and harm its ecological functions. Introducing salt-tolerant plant species associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can act as an effective biological method for restoring salinized soils. AMF colonize plant roots and improve their nutrient acquisition capacity. However, there is limited knowledge on how AMF affects the production of signaling molecules, e.g., abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA), and jasmonic acid (JA), related to plant-microbe interactions under salinity. Here, we assess the potential benefits of the AMF Rhizophagus intraradices in enhancing plant growth and nutrient uptake in addition to modulating stress hormone signaling levels (ABA, SA, and JA) of the facultative halophyte Sulla carnosa under saline conditions. Plants were grown in pots filled with soil and irrigated with 200 mM NaCl for 1 month. AMF symbiosis substantially increased the shoot dry weight (+107%), root dry weight (+67%), photosynthetic pigment content (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids), and nutrient uptake (C, N, P, K, Cu, and Zn) while significantly limiting the increase in the shoot Na[+] concentration and H2O2 content caused by salinity stress. Mycorrhizal symbiosis significantly enhanced the root and shoot SA levels by 450% and 32%, respectively, compared to the stressed non-inoculated plants, potentially contributing to enhanced systemic resistance and osmotic adjustment under saline conditions. Salt stress increased the shoot ABA content, especially in R. intraradices-inoculated plants (113% higher than in stressed non-mycorrhizal plants). These findings confirm that AMF mitigated the adverse effects of salinity on S. carnosa by increasing the SA and ABA levels and reducing oxidative damage.},
}

@article {pmid40281400,
year = {2025},
author = {Binci, F and Cortese, E and Nouri, E and Capparotto, A and Guarneri, G and Settimi, AG and Dabalà, M and Antoni, V and Squartini, A and Giovannetti, M and Navazio, L},
title = {Plasma-activated water promotes and finely tunes arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis in Lotus japonicus.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {544},
pmid = {40281400},
issn = {1471-2229},
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology/drug effects ; *Lotus/microbiology/physiology/drug effects/metabolism ; *Symbiosis/drug effects ; *Water/pharmacology ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; *Plasma Gases/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Plasma-activated water (PAW) is a recently developed cutting-edge technology that is increasingly gaining interest for its applications in medicine, food industry and agriculture. In plant biology, PAW has been shown to enhance seed germination, plant growth, and plant resilience against biotic and abiotic stresses. Despite increasing knowledge of the beneficial effects exerted by PAW on plants, little information is currently available about how this emerging technology may affect mutualistic plant-microbe interactions in the rhizosphere.

RESULTS: In this work we investigated the impact of irrigation with PAW, generated by a plasma torch, on arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis. Roots of the model legume Lotus japonicus expressing the bioluminescent Ca[2+] reporter aequorin responded to treatment with PAW 5' (obtained by 5 min water exposure to plasma) with the immediate induction of cytosolic and nuclear Ca[2+] signals, indicating that Ca[2+]-mediated signalling is one of the earliest cellular responses to PAW. The long-lasting elevations in intracellular Ca[2+] levels were not found to alter cell viability. Quantitative analyses of AM fungal accommodation in the host plant roots along with phosphate accumulation in leaves, as well as chemical analysis of N, C, S in shoots, showed that treatments with PAW play a modulatory role on plant AM symbiotic performance, in a manner dependent on the time interval of water exposure to the plasma and on the duration of plant treatment with PAW. In particular, irrigation with PAW 5' increased fungal colonization after 4 weeks, leading to a significant increase in leaf phosphate content after 7 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings reveal that PAW enhances AM symbiosis by facilitating early fungal accommodation in roots and subsequently increasing phosphate content in leaves at later stages. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the effects of PAW on the plant microbiome may drive research towards a fine-tuning of this novel green technology to maximize its beneficial effects in the context of a more sustainable agriculture.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology/drug effects
*Lotus/microbiology/physiology/drug effects/metabolism
*Symbiosis/drug effects
*Water/pharmacology
Plant Roots/microbiology
*Plasma Gases/pharmacology

@article {pmid40280062,
year = {2025},
author = {Ai, D and Wu, T and Huang, D and Ying, Z and Zhang, J},
title = {Enhanced removal of carbamazepine by microalgal-fungal symbiotic systems in the presence of Mn(II): Synergistic mechanisms and microbial community dynamics.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {493},
number = {},
pages = {138342},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.138342},
pmid = {40280062},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Microalgal-fungal symbiotic systems (MFSS) have emerged as a promising approach for wastewater treatment, yet the mechanisms driving reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and pharmaceutical pollutant removal remain underexplored. This study investigates the synergistic interactions within MFSS and their role in Mn(II) oxidation, with a focus on enhancing carbamazepine (CBZ) degradation and microbial community dynamics. The results reveal that microalgal-fungal interactions inhibit Fe-S cluster activity, disrupting electron transport chains and promoting extracellular superoxide production. This superoxide surge directly accelerates Mn(II) oxidation, while Mn(III) and ROS drive synergistic effects to amplify CBZ removal efficiency. Notably, system-specific variations in superoxide generation were observed across different MFSS configurations, determining their degradation performance. Water quality factors, such as microbial community complexity and nitrate concentration, play crucial roles in CBZ degradation in natural water systems. High-throughput sequencing reveals dynamic shifts in bacterial and eukaryotic communities, highlighting their synergistic interactions in pollutant degradation. Temporal and spatial changes in microbial community structure suggest that the system evolves into a more adaptive configuration during pollutant treatment, enhancing long-term stability. These findings advance the mechanistic understanding of ROS-mediated pollutant degradation in MFSS and provide actionable strategies for optimizing bioremediation systems in engineered and natural water environments.},
}

@article {pmid40280021,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, J},
title = {Inducing factors and coping strategies for insufficient enterprise motivation in University-Industry Collaboration (UIC).},
journal = {Acta psychologica},
volume = {256},
number = {},
pages = {105034},
doi = {10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.105034},
pmid = {40280021},
issn = {1873-6297},
abstract = {University-Industry Collaboration (UIC) represents a vital pathway for cultivating high-caliber talent. However, insufficient enterprise motivation in UIC persists as a fundamental challenge in practice, significantly impacting collaboration quality and effectiveness. While this issue demands attention, related research remains in preliminary stages. Through systematic literature review and empirical investigation of UIC practices, this study employs grounded theory to analyze the inducing factors, behavioral manifestations, behavioral effects, and coping strategies associated with insufficient enterprise motivation. The findings reveal a theoretical framework comprising four major categories (inducing factors, behavioral manifestations, behavioral effects, and coping strategies) and twelve initial categories. Insufficient enterprise motivation gradually emerges through the interplay of symbiotic subject factors (such as inadequate innovation capacity and strategic planning), symbiotic environmental factors (including policy and institutional environment and market competition), and symbiotic mechanism factors (such as benefit distribution and risk-sharing mechanisms). This motivational deficiency manifests in multiple dimensions, including inadequate strategic planning, declining participation enthusiasm, lack of emotional investment, and reduced resource allocation. The behavioral effects are both significant and complex, negatively influencing enterprises' willingness to participate and decision-making processes. Countermeasures can be approached from three dimensions: enhancing symbiotic subjects, optimizing symbiotic environments, and perfecting symbiotic mechanisms. This research not only enriches the theoretical framework in the UIC field but also provides theoretical support and practical guidance for stimulating enterprise participation and improving UIC effectiveness.},
}

@article {pmid40279725,
year = {2025},
author = {Etesami, H and Santoyo, G},
title = {Boosting Rhizobium-legume symbiosis: The role of nodule non-rhizobial bacteria in hormonal and nutritional regulation under stress.},
journal = {Microbiological research},
volume = {297},
number = {},
pages = {128192},
doi = {10.1016/j.micres.2025.128192},
pmid = {40279725},
issn = {1618-0623},
abstract = {Legumes are vital for sustainable agriculture due to their unique ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen through symbiosis with rhizobia. Recent research has highlighted the significant role of non-rhizobial bacteria (NRB) within root nodules in enhancing this symbiotic relationship, particularly under stress conditions. These NRB exhibit plant growth-promoting (PGP) metabolites by modulating phytohormones and enhancing nutrient availability, thereby improving nodule development and function. Bacteria produce essential hormones, such as auxin (indole-3-acetic acid), cytokinins, gibberellic acids abscisic acid, jasmonic acid, and salicylic acid, and enzymes like 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase, which mitigate ethylene's inhibitory effects on nodulation. Furthermore, NRB contribute to nutrient cycling by solubilizing minerals like phosphate, potassium, silicate, zinc, and iron, essential for effective nitrogen fixation. The co-inoculation of legumes with both rhizobia and NRB with multiple PGP metabolites has shown synergistic effects on plant growth, yield, and resilience against environmental stresses. This review emphasizes the need to further explore the diversity and functional roles of nodule-associated non-rhizobial endophytes, aiming to optimize legume productivity through improved nutrient and hormonal management. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing sustainable agricultural practices that enhance the efficiency of legume-rhizobia symbiosis, ultimately contributing to food security and ecosystem health.},
}

@article {pmid40278349,
year = {2025},
author = {Caradonna, E and Abate, F and Schiano, E and Paparella, F and Ferrara, F and Vanoli, E and Difruscolo, R and Goffredo, VM and Amato, B and Setacci, C and Setacci, F and Novellino, E},
title = {Trimethylamine-N-Oxide (TMAO) as a Rising-Star Metabolite: Implications for Human Health.},
journal = {Metabolites},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40278349},
issn = {2218-1989},
abstract = {The intestinal microbiota, hosting trillions of microorganisms that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract, functions as a symbiotic organism that plays a crucial role in regulating health by producing biologically active molecules that can enter systemic circulation. Among them, trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), an organic compound derived from dietary sources and microbial metabolism, has emerged as a critical biomarker linking diet, the gut microbiota, and the host metabolism to various pathological conditions. This comprehensive review highlights TMAO's biosynthesis, physiological functions, and clinical significance, focusing on its mechanistic contributions to cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Notably, TMAO-mediated pathways include endothelial dysfunction, inflammation via NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and cholesterol metabolism disruption, which collectively accelerate atherosclerosis and disease progression. Nonetheless, this work underscores the innovative potential of targeting TMAO through dietary, nutraceutical, and microbiota-modulating strategies to mitigate its pathological effects, marking a transformative approach in the prevention and management of TMAO-related disorders.},
}

@article {pmid40278261,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, H and Hou, J and Zhu, Y and Wu, B and Ren, J and Sun, Z and Liu, X},
title = {Comparative Analysis of Intestinal Microbiota Between Tetrodotoxin-Containing and Tetrodotoxin-Free Takifugu rubripes.},
journal = {Marine drugs},
volume = {23},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40278261},
issn = {1660-3397},
support = {6202034//the Beijing Natural Science Foundation/ ; 2023TD25//the Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund CAFS/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Tetrodotoxin/metabolism/toxicity ; *Takifugu/microbiology/metabolism ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; Bacteria/metabolism ; Symbiosis ; },
abstract = {Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a potent marine neurotoxin found in pufferfish, causing severe poisoning or death if consumed improperly. Studies have indicated that intestinal symbiotic microbiota are associated with the production and accumulation of TTX in pufferfish. However, the specific symbiotic microorganisms involved in these processes and their respective functions remain unclear. This study explored differences in intestinal microbiota related to the TTX content between toxic and non-toxic tiger puffer Takifugu rubripes. We found that the dominant phyla exhibiting significant abundance differences between the two groups were Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota, with the core bacterial genera being Rikenella, Vibrio, Photobacterium, and Bacteroides. Moreover, the genera Marinimicrobium, Idomarina, Galbibacter, and Brumimicrobium were reported for the first time to be potentially associated with TTX bioaccumulation in T. rubripes. In addition, an integrated analysis with our previous study indicated that the "ABC transporters" pathway may play significant roles in the production and transport of TTX in both symbiotic microorganisms and T. rubripes. This study preliminarily investigated the intestinal symbiotic bacteria associated with the accumulation and metabolism of TTX in T. rubripes, as well as screening potential microbial biomarkers for assessing the safety of pufferfish.},
}

Animals
*Tetrodotoxin/metabolism/toxicity
*Takifugu/microbiology/metabolism
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
Bacteria/metabolism
Symbiosis

@article {pmid40278148,
year = {2025},
author = {Khoza, T and Masenya, A and Khanyile, N and Thosago, S},
title = {Alleviating Plant Density and Salinity Stress in Moringa oleifera Using Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi: A Review.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40278148},
issn = {2309-608X},
abstract = {Moringa oleifera (LAM) is a multipurpose tree species with extensive pharmacological and ethnomedicinal properties. Production of important medicinal plants is facing decline under changing climatic conditions, which brings along exacerbated abiotic stresses like salinity and intraspecific competition, particularly high planting densities. Increasing plant density is seen as a strategy to increase production; however, the intraspecific competition and a lack of arable land limit productivity. Salinity has been estimated to harm approximately six percent of the Earth's landmass. This leads to a loss of over 20% of agricultural output annually. These stressors can significantly curtail moringa's growth and yield potential. Literature designates that Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF), ubiquitous soil microorganisms forming symbiotic associations with plant roots, offer a promising avenue for mitigating these stresses. This narrative review aims to investigate the utilization of AMF to alleviate the detrimental effects of salinity and high planting density on Moringa oleifera. The different adaptive strategies M. oleifera undergoes to mitigate both stressors are explored. The review found that AMF inoculation enhances plant tolerance to these stressors by improving nutrient acquisition, water relations, and activating stress response mechanisms. By facilitating improved nutrient and water absorption, AMF enhance root architecture, modulate ROS scavenging mechanisms, and promote optimal biomass allocation, ensuring better survival in high-density plantings. Furthermore, AMF-mediated stress alleviation is linked to enhanced physiological efficiency, including increased chlorophyll content, root-shoot biomass balance, and ion homeostasis. This review is important because it could provide insights into a sustainable, natural solution for improving the resilience of Moringa oleifera under adverse environmental conditions, with potential applications in global agriculture and food security. Future research should prioritize identifying and characterizing moringa-specific AMF species and evaluate the long-term efficacy, feasibility, and economic viability of AMF application in real-world moringa cultivation systems to fully harness the potential of AMF in moringa cultivation.},
}

@article {pmid40278136,
year = {2025},
author = {Lin, Y and Wang, K and Wang, Z and Fang, X and Wang, H and Li, N and Shi, C and Shi, F},
title = {Microaggregates as Nutrient Reservoirs for Fungi Drive Natural Regeneration in Larch Plantation Forests.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40278136},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {No. 42407181//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No. 2024-30033//Langxiang National Nature Reserve/ ; },
abstract = {The natural regeneration of Larix gmelinii plantations plays a pivotal role in rehabilitating ecosystem services in Northeast China's degraded forests. However, mechanistic linkages between soil aggregate nutrient fluxes and fungal community assembly remain poorly constrained. Combining space-for-time substitution with particle-size fractionation and high-throughput sequencing, this study examined successional trajectories across regeneration in Langxiang National Nature Reserve to resolve nutrient-fungal interplay during long-term forest restructuring. The results demonstrated that microaggregates (<0.25 mm) functioned as nutrient protection reservoirs, exhibiting significantly higher total carbon (TC) and nitrogen (TN) contents and greater fungal diversity (p < 0.05). Both stand regeneration stage and aggregate size significantly influenced fungal community composition and structural organization (p < 0.05). Aggregate-mediated effects predominated in upper soil horizons, where fungal dominance progressively transitioned from Mortierellomycota to Ascomycota with increasing particle size. In contrast, lower soil layers exhibited regeneration-dependent dynamics: Basidiomycota abundance declined with L. gmelinii reduction, followed by partial recovery through mycorrhizal reestablishment in Pinus koraiensis broadleaf communities. Fungal co-occurrence networks displayed peak complexity during Juglans mandshurica germination (Node 50, Edge 345), with 64.6%positive correlations, indicating the critical period for functional synergy. Basidiomycota showed significant negative correlations with nutrients and major fungal phyla (R[2] = 0.89). This study confirms that natural vegetation regeneration reshapes belowground processes through litter inputs and mycorrhizal symbiosis, while microaggregate management enhances soil carbon sequestration. Near-natural plantation management should incorporate broadleaf species to preserve mycorrhizal diversity and amplify ecosystem services. These findings provide an essential soil ecological theoretical basis for sustainable plantation management in Northeast China.},
}

@article {pmid40278123,
year = {2025},
author = {Jamilano-Llames, LC and Dela Cruz, TEE},
title = {Comparative Antagonistic Activities of Endolichenic Fungi Isolated from the Fruticose Lichens Ramalina and Usnea.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40278123},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {DOST-NRCP Project No. E-261 - Project ELFHA: Biodiscovery of Endolichenic Fungi to mitigate antimicrobial resistance in Health and Agriculture by the National Research Council of the Phil-ippines (NRCP) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)//National Research Council of the Philippines/ ; },
abstract = {Persistent fungal pathogens remain a threat to global food security as these pathogens continue to infect crops despite different mitigating strategies. Traditionally, synthetic fungicides are used to combat these threats, but their environmental and health impacts have spurred interest in a more sustainable, eco-friendly approach. Endolichenic fungi (ELF) are a relatively underexplored group of microorganisms found thriving inside the lichen thalli. They are seen as promising alternatives for developing sustainable plant disease management strategies. Hence, in this study, a total of forty ELF isolates from two fruticose lichen hosts-Ramalina and Usnea, were tested and compared for their antagonistic activities against three economically important filamentous fungal pathogens-Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Cladosporium cladosporioides, and Fusarium oxysporum. The results of the dual culture assay showed that all ELF isolates successfully reduced the growth of the three filamentous fungal pathogens with varying degrees, and with direct contact inhibition as the predominant trait among the endolichenic fungi. Comparing the antagonistic activities between the different endolichenic fungi from the two lichen hosts, ELF isolates from Ramalina generally demonstrated a higher percentage inhibition of growth of the test fungi as compared to ELF isolates from Usnea. This study underscores the importance of endolichenic fungi as an efficient biocontrol agent.},
}

@article {pmid40278067,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, C and Fan, J and Hu, D and Sun, H and Lu, G and Wang, Y and Yang, Y},
title = {The Three-Dimensional Structure of the Genome of the Dark Septate Endophyte Exophiala tremulae and Its Symbiosis Effect on Alpine Meadow Plant Growth.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40278067},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {U23A2043//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {The establishment of artificial grassland is a good pathway for resolving serious social and economic problems in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Some beneficial indigenous microbes may be used to improve productivity in artificial grassland. The genome of the indigenous dark septate fungus, Exophiala tremulae CICC2537, was sequenced and assembled at the chromosome level using the PacBio sequencing platform, with the assistance of the Hi-C technique for scaffolding, and its 3D genome structures were investigated. The genome size of E. tremulae is 51.903848 Mb, and it contains eight chromosomes. A total of 12,277 protein-coding genes were predicted, and 11,932 genes (97.19%) were annotated. As for the distribution of exon and intron number and the distribution of gene GC and CDS GC, E. tremulae showed similar distribution patterns to the other investigated members of the genus Exophiala. The analysis of carbohydrate-active enzymes showed that E. tremulae possesses the greatest number of enzymes with auxiliary activities and the lowest number of enzymes with carbohydrate-binding modules among the investigated fungi. The total number of candidate effector proteins was 3337, out of which cytoplasmic and apoplastic effector proteins made up 3100 and 163, respectively. The whole genome of E. tremulae contained 40 compartment As and 76 compartment Bs, and there was no significant difference in GC content in its compartment As and Bs. The whole genome of E. tremulae was predicted to contain 155 topologically associating domains (TADs), and their average length was 250,000 bp, but there were no significant differences in the numbers of genes and the GC content per bin localized within the boundaries and interiors of TADs. Comparative genome analysis showed that E. tremulae diverged from Exophiala mesophila about 34.1 (30.0-39.1) Myr ago, and from Exophiala calicioides about 85.6 (76.1-90.6) Myr ago. Compared with all the investigated fungi, the numbers of contraction and expansion gene families in the E. tremulae genome were 13 and 89, respectively, and the numbers of contraction and expansion genes were 14 and 670, respectively. Our work provides a basis for the use of the dark septate fungus in alpine artificial grassland and further research into its symbiosis mechanisms, which may improve the growth of plant species used in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.},
}

@article {pmid40277137,
year = {2025},
author = {Kim, JA and Choi, SS and Lim, JK and Kim, ES},
title = {Unlocking marine treasures: isolation and mining strategies of natural products from sponge-associated bacteria.},
journal = {Natural product reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5np00013k},
pmid = {40277137},
issn = {1460-4752},
abstract = {Covering: 2019 to early 2025Marine sponges form unique ecosystems through symbiosis with diverse microbial communities, producing natural products including bioactive compounds. This review comprehensively addresses the key steps in the discovery of natural products from sponge-associated microorganisms, encompassing microbial isolation and cultivation, compound identification, and characterisation. Various cultivation methods, such as floating filter cultivation, microcapsule-based cultivation, and in situ systems, are examined to highlight their applications and strategies for overcoming limitations of conventional approaches. Additionally, the integration of genome-based methodologies and compound screening is explored to enhance the discovery of novel bioactive substances and establish a sustainable platform for natural product research. This review provides insights into the latest trends in sponge-associated microbial research and offers practical perspectives for expanding the utilization of marine biological resources.},
}

@article {pmid40275784,
year = {2025},
author = {Yamagishi, D and Onuma, R and Matsunaga, S and Miyagishima, SY and Maruyama, S},
title = {Algal Symbiont Diversity and Host Fitness Variation in Amoebozoan Photosymbiosis.},
journal = {The Journal of eukaryotic microbiology},
volume = {72},
number = {3},
pages = {e70008},
pmid = {40275784},
issn = {1550-7408},
support = {JPMJCR20S6//Japan Science and Technology Agency/ ; JPMJSP2108//Japan Science and Technology Agency/ ; 22H02697//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 22H05668//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 23H04962//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 23K23960//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 24H01462//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 24KJ0740//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis ; *Amoebozoa/physiology/growth & development ; *Microalgae/physiology ; Photosynthesis ; },
abstract = {Photosymbioses, the symbiotic relationships between microalgae and non-photosynthetic eukaryotes, are sporadically found in many eukaryotic lineages. Only a few taxa, such as cnidarians and ciliates hosting algal endosymbionts, have been actively studied, which has hindered understanding the universal mechanisms of photosymbiosis establishment. In Amoebozoa, few species are reported as photosymbiotic, and how the photosymbioses are established is still unclear. To investigate the extent to which one of the photosymbiotic amoebae, Mayorella viridis, depends on their symbionts, the amoebae were treated with reagents known to induce the collapsing of photosymbioses in other species. We succeeded in removing algal symbionts from the hosts with 2-amino-3-chloro-1,4-naphthoquinone. While the apo-symbiotic amoebae grew to the same extent as the symbiotic state when they fed on prey, their survival rates were lower than those of the symbiotic ones during starvation, suggesting that the impact of the photosymbiosis on fitness is condition-dependent. Furthermore, we showed that the photosymbiotic state was reversible by feeding two strains of the green alga Chlorella to the apo-symbiotic amoebae. The efficiencies of ingesting algal cells significantly differed between algal strains. These results suggest that the photosymbiotic relationship in the amoeba is facultative and that different algal strains have discrete symbiotic abilities to the amoeba.},
}

*Symbiosis
*Amoebozoa/physiology/growth & development
*Microalgae/physiology
Photosynthesis

@article {pmid40275590,
year = {2025},
author = {Haghani Dogahe, M and Mahan, MA and Zhang, M and Bashiri Aliabadi, S and Rouhafza, A and Karimzadhagh, S and Feizkhah, A and Monsef, A and Habibi Roudkenar, M},
title = {Advancing Prosthetic Hand Capabilities Through Biomimicry and Neural Interfaces.},
journal = {Neurorehabilitation and neural repair},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {15459683251331593},
doi = {10.1177/15459683251331593},
pmid = {40275590},
issn = {1552-6844},
abstract = {Background and ObjectivesProsthetic hand development is undergoing a transformative phase, blending biomimicry and neural interface technologies to redefine functionality and sensory feedback. This article explores the symbiotic relationship between biomimetic design principles and neural interface technology (NIT) in advancing prosthetic hand capabilities.MethodsDrawing inspiration from biological systems, researchers aim to replicate the intricate movements and capabilities of the human hand through innovative prosthetic designs. Central to this endeavor is NIT, facilitating seamless communication between artificial devices and the human nervous system. Recent advances in fabrication methods have propelled brain-computer interfaces, enabling precise control of prosthetic hands by decoding neural activity.ResultsAnatomical complexities of the human hand underscore the importance of understanding biomechanics, neuroanatomy, and control mechanisms for crafting effective prosthetic solutions. Furthermore, achieving the goal of a fully functional cyborg hand necessitates a multidisciplinary approach and biomimetic design to replicate the body's inherent capabilities. By incorporating the expertise of clinicians, tissue engineers, bioengineers, electronic and data scientists, the next generation of the implantable devices is not only anatomically and biomechanically accurate but also offer intuitive control, sensory feedback, and proprioception, thereby pushing the boundaries of current prosthetic technology.ConclusionBy integrating machine learning algorithms, biomechatronic principles, and advanced surgical techniques, prosthetic hands can achieve real-time control while restoring tactile sensation and proprioception. This manuscript contributes novel approaches to prosthetic hand development, with potential implications for enhancing the functionality, durability, and safety of the prosthetic limb.},
}

@article {pmid40275300,
year = {2025},
author = {Cheng, X and Liang, Y and Ji, K and Feng, M and Du, X and Jiao, D and Wu, X and Zhong, C and Cong, H and Yang, G},
title = {Enhanced propionate and butyrate metabolism in cecal microbiota contributes to cold-stress adaptation in sheep.},
journal = {Microbiome},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {103},
pmid = {40275300},
issn = {2049-2618},
mesh = {Animals ; Sheep/microbiology ; *Cecum/microbiology/metabolism ; *Propionates/metabolism ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; *Butyrates/metabolism ; *Cold-Shock Response ; Fatty Acids, Volatile/metabolism ; Cold Temperature ; Bacteria/classification/metabolism/genetics/isolation & purification ; Adaptation, Physiological ; Fermentation ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: During cold stress, gut microbes play crucial roles in orchestrating energy metabolism to enhance environmental adaptation. In sheep, hindgut microbes ferment carbohydrates to generate short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) as an energy source. However, the mechanisms by which hindgut microbes and their metabolites interact with the host to facilitate adaptation to cold environments remain ambiguous. Herein, we simulated a winter environment (- 20 °C) and provided a rationed diet to compare the cold adaptation mechanisms between Hulunbuir and Hu sheep.

RESULTS: Our findings show that cold exposure enhances SCFA metabolism in the sheep cecum. In Hu sheep, acetate, butyrate, and total SCFA concentrations increased, whereas in Hulunbuir sheep, propionate and butyrate concentrations increased, with a notable increase in total SCFAs. Notably, butyrate concentration was higher in Hulunbuir sheep than in Hu sheep under cold stress. Following cold exposure, the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β levels increased in both breeds. In addition, Hu sheep showed increased IL-10, whereas Hulunbuir sheep exhibited elevated secretory IgA levels. The cecal microbiota responded differently, Hu sheep showed no notable changes in alpha and beta diversity, whereas Hulunbuir sheep exhibited considerable alterations. In Hu sheep, the abundance of fungi, specifically Blastocystis sp. subtype 4, decreased, and that of several Lachnospiraceae species (Roseburia hominis, Faecalicatena contorta, and Ruminococcus gnavus) involved in SCFA metabolism increased. Pathways related to carbohydrate metabolism, such as starch and sucrose metabolism, galactose metabolism, and pentose and glucuronate interconversions, were upregulated. In Hulunbuir sheep, the abundance of Treponema bryantii, Roseburia sp. 499, and Prevotella copri increased, with upregulation in pathways related to amino acid metabolism and energy metabolism. Cold exposure increased node connectivity within the symbiotic networks of both breeds, with increased network vulnerability in Hu sheep. Following cold exposure, the microbial community of Hulunbuir sheep showed a decrease in the influence of stochastic processes on community assembly, with a corresponding increase in the role of environmental selection. Conversely, no such shift was evident in Hu sheep. Further transcriptomic analysis revealed distinct regulatory mechanisms between breeds. In Hu sheep, protein synthesis, energy metabolism, and thermogenesis pathways were substantially upregulated. By contrast, Hulunbuir sheep showed considerable upregulation of immune pathways and energy conservation through reduced ribosome synthesis. Correlation analysis indicated that butyrate holds a central position in both networks, with Hulunbuir sheep exhibiting a more complex and tightly regulated network involving SCFAs, microbiota, microbial functions, and transcriptomes. Partial least squares path modeling revealed that cold exposure substantially altered the cecal microbiota and transcriptomes of Hulunbuir sheep, affecting SCFAs and cytokines.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study suggest that under cold exposure, Hu sheep enhance acetate fermentation and rely on tissue thermogenesis for adaptation. By contrast, Hulunbuir sheep exhibit changes in microbial diversity and function, leading to increased propionate and butyrate metabolism. This may promote physiological energy conservation and innate immune defense, balancing heat loss and enhancing cold adaptation.},
}

Animals
Sheep/microbiology
*Cecum/microbiology/metabolism
*Propionates/metabolism
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
*Butyrates/metabolism
*Cold-Shock Response
Fatty Acids, Volatile/metabolism
Cold Temperature
Bacteria/classification/metabolism/genetics/isolation & purification
Adaptation, Physiological
Fermentation

@article {pmid40275151,
year = {2025},
author = {Agyekum, DVA and Dastogeer, KMG and Okazaki, S},
title = {Deciphering the rhizosphere microbiota composition of nature farming soybean (Glycine max L.) with different nodulation phenotypes.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {520},
pmid = {40275151},
issn = {1471-2229},
support = {23KK0108//JSPS Kakenhi/ ; JPNP18016//New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization/ ; },
mesh = {*Glycine max/microbiology/growth & development/genetics ; *Rhizosphere ; *Microbiota ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Plant Root Nodulation ; Symbiosis ; Phenotype ; Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology ; Agriculture ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nature farming, a sustainable agricultural method which avoids agrochemicals and untreated organic amendments, promotes both agricultural productivity and ecological conservation. This system may foster unique plant-microbiota interactions for growth and fitness; however, the microbiota of nature-farmed plants remains largely unexplored. Second, root nodule symbiosis (RNS) is crucial for nitrogen fixation in legumes; however, its broader impact on rhizosphere microbiota assembly is not well understood. This study examined the dynamics between impaired nodule symbiosis, soil management, and the rhizosphere microbiota composition and growth of soybean (Glycine max L.).

RESULTS: We evaluated the growth and characterized the rhizosphere bacterial and fungal communities of soybean by comparing wildtype soybeans (Enrei) with the non-nodulating mutants (En1282) across four soils under conventional and nature farming, including fumigated and unfumigated conditions. We found that the non-nodulating soybean mutants (En1282) exhibited reduced growth compared with wild-type (Enrei) plants, especially in untreated soils. Soil fumigation decreased microbial diversity and reshaped rhizosphere community composition with a significant reduction in plant growth and nodulation in all soils. Restriction in RNS increased bacterial diversity in untreated soils, possibly as a compensatory mechanism for nitrogen acquisition, whereas fungal diversity remained relatively stable. Nature farming promoted beneficial microbes like Rhizobium, Trichoderma, and Chloridium, whereas conventional soil plants favored Bacillus and Aspergillus. Notably, differential enrichment analysis identified distinct associations for each nodulation phenotype, with Enrei predominantly enriched for Pseudomonas, and En1282 associated primarily with oligotrophic microbes.

CONCLUSION: Our study sheds light on the complex interplay between legume symbiosis and rhizosphere microbiota assembly and highlights the significance of eco-friendly farming methods like nature farming in cultivating a healthy rhizosphere for plant growth. The results paves way for future strategies to manipulate rhizosphere microbiota, ultimately promoting robust and sustainable farming systems that reduce reliance on chemical inputs.},
}

*Glycine max/microbiology/growth & development/genetics
*Rhizosphere
*Microbiota
*Soil Microbiology
*Plant Root Nodulation
Symbiosis
Phenotype
Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology
Agriculture

@article {pmid40275142,
year = {2025},
author = {Hamed, DA},
title = {Utilization of gamma irradiated emulsified frying oil wastes as a carbon source for sustainable and economical production of bacterial cellulose membrane.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {242},
pmid = {40275142},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Cellulose/biosynthesis/metabolism ; *Gamma Rays ; *Carbon/metabolism ; *Industrial Waste/analysis ; Emulsions/metabolism ; *Bacteria/metabolism ; *Oils/metabolism ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a nanofibrils macromolecule that possesses unique properties and versatile applications in various fields. For commercial production, agro-industrial wastes were used as sustainable and cost effective alternative sources. Annually, a great amount of frying oil wastes are produced worldwide and disposed illegally resulting in huge environmental disasters. In this regard, the study aimed to investigate the effect of different concentration and increasing doses of gamma irradiation on the potential utilization of emulsified FOW as carbon source for BC production. In addition to tracking the behavior of SCOBY and BCM formation process in the presence of FOW.

METHODOLOGY: The effect of different factors including; concentrations of FOW, incubation period emulsification ratios and gamma irradiation on BC production were investigated and estimated gravimetrically. In addition, the manner of the cellulose membrane formation was closely tracked and was documented by photos.

RESULTS: The data proved that the symbiotic culture (SCOBY), has the ability to utilize frying oil wastes as a sole carbon source. Addition of 1% FOW resulted in (12.1%) increasing the BCM dry weight (2.81 to 3.15 gL- 1 in SWM, while the addition of 1% of the emulsified oil (FOW/E) recording (32.6%) increase in BC dry weight compared with control (5.33 and 4.02 gL- 1, respectively). Further increase in FOW/E concentration (> 2-5%) resulted in a significant gradual decreases (39%) in BC dry weight (from 5.33 to 3.25 gL- 1). Whereas, increasing the incubation period (21- days) resulted in a significant increase in BCM dry weight from 3.79 to 5.32 gL- 1 (40.4%). The effect of gamma irradiation (0-50 kGy) of FOW/E showed an increase in BCM dry weight (2.5%) at dose 10 kGy, while recorded (34.1%) increase compared with control (without FOW). The critical moments of SCOBY while struggling for surviving to gain the oxygen and nutrients required for BC biosynthesis in the presence of FOW have been documented photographically.

CONCLUSION: The present study positively contributes to the field of BC biosynthesis, where the FOW was added to the other agro-industrial wastes as a source of carbon for BC production, in addition to its potential application in the future in bioremediation for controlling environmental pollution.},
}

*Cellulose/biosynthesis/metabolism
*Gamma Rays
*Carbon/metabolism
*Industrial Waste/analysis
Emulsions/metabolism
*Bacteria/metabolism
*Oils/metabolism

@article {pmid40274934,
year = {2025},
author = {Goñi, I and Monnet, C and De Baets, K and Topper, TP and Régnier, S and Schröer, L and Cnudde, V and Jell, PA and Clausen, S},
title = {Symbiotic interactions on middle Cambrian echinoderms reveal the oldest parasitism on deuterostomes.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {14257},
pmid = {40274934},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {VR- 2021-04295//Vetenskraprådet/ ; 42072003//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 101005611//European Union's Horizon 2020/ ; 101005611//European Union's Horizon 2020/ ; BOF.COR.2022.0009//The Ghent University Special Research Fund/ ; BOF.COR.2022.0009//The Ghent University Special Research Fund/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Symbiosis ; *Fossils ; *Echinodermata/physiology/parasitology/anatomy & histology ; *Host-Parasite Interactions ; Australia ; Biological Evolution ; },
abstract = {Biotic interactions are considered as major drivers of evolutionary changes, but their identification in the fossil record is extremely rare and controversial. Based on qualitative and quantitative analyses, we report evidence of a biotic interaction between an echinoderm host and its symbiont, probably a parasitic epibiont, from the Cambrian Wuliuan Stage of Australia. The echinoderm plates bear external outgrowths with a median pit at their distal end. These unusual structures have not been previously documented from Cambrian echinoderms and their lack of consistency across various morphological parameters, supports the interpretation that a biotic interaction generated these unique structures. Perturbations in plate microstructure and the overproduction of skeletal material in specific regions, together with reduced size, negatively impact the host's growth suggesting a parasitic interaction. This reaction by the echinoderm host may represent the progressive embedment of the invasive epibiont. This record represents the oldest evidence of parasitism among deuterostomes.},
}

Animals
*Symbiosis
*Fossils
*Echinodermata/physiology/parasitology/anatomy & histology
*Host-Parasite Interactions
Australia
Biological Evolution

@article {pmid40274194,
year = {2025},
author = {Xiao, J and Liu, W and Wu, B and Zhang, Y and Li, S and Li, E},
title = {Root hair: An important guest-meeting avenue for rhizobia in legume-Rhizobium symbiosis.},
journal = {Plant science : an international journal of experimental plant biology},
volume = {356},
number = {},
pages = {112518},
doi = {10.1016/j.plantsci.2025.112518},
pmid = {40274194},
issn = {1873-2259},
abstract = {Root hairs anchor the plant in the soil, facilitating nutrient assimilation, water absorption, and interaction of plants with their environment. In legumes, they play a key role in the early infection of rhizobia. This review aimed to summarize the recent progress about the nodulation factor receptors on the root hair surface. It also discussed the importance of downstream signaling pathways of nodulation factor receptors and highlighted Rho of plants signaling pathway that controls infection thread polar growth and nodulation.},
}

@article {pmid40273425,
year = {2025},
author = {Bonacolta, AM and Weiler, BA and Grimes, CJ and Trznadel, M and Vermeij, MJA and Keeling, PJ and Del Campo, J},
title = {Fireworms are a reservoir and potential vector for coral-infecting apicomplexans.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wraf078},
pmid = {40273425},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {Corals (Cnidaria; Anthozoa) play critical roles as habitat-forming species with a wide range, from warm shallow-water tropical coral reefs to cold-water ecosystems. They also represent a complex ecosystem as intricate holobionts made up of microbes from all domains of the Tree of Life that can play significant roles in host health and fitness. The corallicolids are a clade of apicomplexans that infect a wide variety of anthozoans worldwide and can influence the thermal tolerance of habitat-forming corals. Despite their potentially important impacts on reef ecosystems, much of the basic biology and ecology of corallicolids remains unclear. Apicomplexans often have a closed life cycle, with minimal environmental exposure and sometimes multiple hosts. Corallicolids have only been documented in anthozoan hosts, with no known secondary/reservoir hosts or vectors. Here, we show that abundant corallicolid sequences are recovered from bearded fireworms (Hermodice carunculata) in tropical reef habitats off Curaçao and that they are distinct from corallicolids infecting the corals on which the fireworms were feeding at the time of their collection. These data are consistent with a fireworm-specific corallicolid infection, not merely a byproduct of the worms feeding on infected corals. Furthermore, we suggest that H. carunculata is potentially a vector moving corallicolids among coral hosts through its feces. These findings not only expand our understanding of the ecological interactions within coral reef ecosystems but also highlight the potential role of host-associated parasites in shaping the resilience of reef habitats.},
}

@article {pmid40273297,
year = {2025},
author = {Tardent, N and Schlegel, T and Jokela, J and Hartikainen, H},
title = {Positive and negative frequency dependent parasitism in naturally co-occurring diploid sexual and polyploid asexual Lumbriculus variegatus.},
journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jeb/voaf046},
pmid = {40273297},
issn = {1420-9101},
abstract = {Polyploidisation is an important evolutionary force. It drives sympatric speciation through reproductive isolation of different cytotypes, and often leads to loss of sexual reproduction in polyploid lineages. Polyploidisation and asexuality can change how other species engage in ecological interactions with the polyploid lineage and may change coevolutionary dynamics. Here, we quantified the phenotypic divergence in the freshwater oligochaete worm Lumbriculus variegatus, the California blackworm, among its co-occurring sexual diploid (Lineage II) and asexual polyploid (Lineage I) lineages. We further investigated variation in parasite communities and infection prevalence among sympatric and allopatric diploid/polyploid populations. Ten out of 18 populations showed co-existence of both lineages, with 7 populations harbouring only the polyploid lineage. Both worm lineages hosted endoparasitic nematodes, an ectoparasitic rotifer, and one potentially symbiotic gut ciliate. The parasite community similarity and overlapping size range of diploid and polyploid worms points to the ecological similarity of the worm lineages, despite the substantial ploidy and reproductive strategy differentiation. Although parasite prevalence varied independently of worm lineage, prevalence was associated with frequency of local cytotypes. Specifically, the rotifer prevalence was highest on the rare local cytotype, and nematode prevalence was highest on the common local cytotype. These results suggest the presence of both positive and negative frequency dependent parasitism, which may contribute to the co-existence in the L. variegatus species complex.},
}

@article {pmid40272864,
year = {2025},
author = {Brejon Lamartinière, E and Tremble, K and Dentinger, BTM and Dasmahapatra, KK and Hoffman, JI},
title = {A haplotype-resolved chromosomal reference genome for the porcini mushroom Boletus edulis.},
journal = {G3 (Bethesda, Md.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/g3journal/jkaf069},
pmid = {40272864},
issn = {2160-1836},
support = {680350//German Research Foundation (DFG)/ ; DEB-2114785//National Science Foundation Directorate for Biological Sciences (NSF-DEB)/ ; //the DFG/ ; //the Open Access Publication Fund of Bielefeld University/ ; },
abstract = {Haplotype-resolved chromosomal reference genomes are increasingly available for many fungi, offering insights into the evolution of pathogenic and symbiotic lifestyles. However, these resources remain scarce for ectomycorrhizal fungi, which play crucial roles in forest ecosystems. Here, we used a combination of chromatin conformation capture and PacBio sequencing to construct a haplotype-resolved chromosomal genome assembly for Boletus edulis, a prized edible fungus and emerging model for ectomycorrhizal fungal research. Our new reference assembly, "BolEdBiel_h2," derives from a B. edulis sporocarp sampled in Bielefeld, Germany. The genome assembly spans 41.8 Mb, with a scaffold N50 of 4.1 Mb, and includes 11 chromosome-level scaffolds, achieving near telomere-to-telomere coverage across multiple chromosomes. We annotated a total of 15,406 genes, with a Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs score of 96.2%. Key genomic features such as mating loci, carbohydrate-active enzymes, and effector proteins, were identified. As a first application of this new genomic resource, we mapped whole-genome resequencing data from 53 genets to investigate the population structure and genetic diversity of the European lineage of B. edulis. We identified 2 distinct genetic clusters and found that high-latitude populations from Iceland and Fennoscandia exhibited greater nucleotide diversity than populations from the United Kingdom and Central Europe. Additionally, we discovered a 0.4-Mb inversion on chromosome 3 and identified several regions of locally elevated nucleotide diversity, which may represent candidates for ecological adaptation. This genomic resource will facilitate a deeper understanding of this ecologically and commercially important wild fungus.},
}

@article {pmid40270818,
year = {2025},
author = {Cambronero-Heinrichs, JC and Biedermann, PHW and Besana, L and Battisti, A and Rassati, D},
title = {Bacterial communities associated with ambrosia beetles: current knowledge and existing gaps.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1569105},
pmid = {40270818},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Ambrosia beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae and Platypodinae) are wood-boring insects studied as examples of fungus-insect symbiosis and for their success as invasive species. While most research on their microbiota has focused on fungal associates, their bacterial communities remain largely understudied. In this review, we synthesize current knowledge on the bacterial microbiota of ambrosia beetles, identify critical gaps in the field, and provide recommendations for future research. To date, eight metabarcoding studies have explored bacterial communities in ambrosia beetles, analyzing a total of 13 species, mostly within the tribe Xyleborini (Scolytinae). These studies have examined the presence of bacteria in ambrosia beetle mycetangia, organs specialized for transporting fungal symbionts, as well as bacterial diversity in fungal gardens and whole beetles, across different life stages, and under varying environmental conditions. In general, bacterial communities appear to be highly specific to the beetle species, and differ between the beetles and their fungal gardens. Most studies employed 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding, and the optimal primer combination for characterizing bacterial communities in environmental samples is 515F/806RB (V4). Various methods for collecting beetles have been used, such as ethanol-baited traps, direct collection from galleries, logs kept in emergence cages, and rearing, but which of them to select when planning a study depends on the specific aim. A significant knowledge gap remains regarding the functional roles of dominant bacterial taxa, as metabarcoding studies often assume that these roles are similar to those played in other beetle species, such as bark beetles. More studies should be conducted to test hypotheses regarding the various factors influencing microbial composition and function, and advanced molecular techniques, including (meta-) genome and transcriptome sequencing, which have been employed in only a limited number of studies, could offer great potential to help bridging this knowledge gap.},
}

@article {pmid40270808,
year = {2025},
author = {Takahashi, H and Xu, N and Kanayama, Y and Tabara, M and Takeda, A and Fukuhara, T and Miyashita, S},
title = {Latent infection of Vigna unguiculata with seed-borne bean common mosaic virus modulates plant growth and may contribute to mutualistic symbiosis between the virus and host plant.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1524787},
pmid = {40270808},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {In evaluating the germination and growth of the seed resources of 322 cultivars of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), we found the development of yellow symptoms on ~50% of the cotyledons of 10 cultivars. RNA-Seq analysis of total RNA extracted from symptomatic cotyledons indicated that the 10 cultivars were infected with the bean common mosaic virus (Potyvirus phaseovulgaris, BCMV), which is a member of the family Potyviridae and able to seed-transmit to progeny plants. One of the BCMV isolates identified in the 10 cultivars was BCMV(Vu06), which was infected with cultivar #6. During the growth of BCMV(Vu06)-infected cowpea plants, there were no systemic symptoms in newly developing leaves, but the virus coat protein was detected in both leaves and flowers. Thus, the cowpea cultivar #6 plant was latently infected with BCMV(Vu06). There was no significant difference in the dry matter weight of the above-ground parts of the plant between BCMV(Vu06)-latently infected and non-infected plants. However, BCMV(Vu06)-latently infected plants had late flower and bud formation and longer life but slightly lower seed yield than the non-infected plants. The 1,000-seed weight and germination frequency of the seeds harvested from infected plants were the same as those of non-infected plants. Taken together, latent infection of cultivar #6 with BCMV(Vu6) modulates the balance between vegetative and reproductive plant growth and the longer lifespan of BCMV(Vu06)-latently infected plants may provide an advantage for its survivability over generations. BCMV(Vu06) and cowpea cultivar #6 might have established a mutual symbiotic relationship during their interaction.},
}

@article {pmid40270064,
year = {2025},
author = {Basu, A and Chalasani, D and Sarma, PVSRN and Uikey, S and Chenna, VR and Choudhari, PL and Podile, AR},
title = {Influence of genotype, nodule position, and edaphic factors on microbial diversity and assembly of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan) root nodules in Indian soils.},
journal = {Environmental microbiome},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {41},
pmid = {40270064},
issn = {2524-6372},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan) is an important legume crop in semi-arid regions with multiple uses. The microbial diversity within its root nodules in Indian soils remains poorly explored. We investigated the bacterial diversity of pigeonpea root nodules across different genotypes and soil types to identify the factors driving their assembly. Using a metagenomic approach and high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene, we analyzed the nodule microbiomes of three pigeonpea genotypes (Asha, Durga, and Mannem Konda Kandi) grown in three different soil types (Alfisol, Vertisol, and Inceptisol) and wild pigeonpea (C. scarabaeoides) in its native soil.

RESULTS: Our results indicated that pigeonpea nodules harbor diverse rhizobial and non-rhizobial endophytes and that host genotype, nodule position, soil type, and other edaphic factors influence significant variation in the microbial community structure. The core nodule microbiome was dominated by Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes. Bradyrhizobium and Ensifer were predominant among the rhizobial taxa, and non-rhizobial genera such as Pseudomonas, Chitinophaga, and Limnobacter were also abundant. Edaphic factors, particularly soil type, pH, and nutrient availability, had a stronger influence on the nodule bacterial community composition than the host genotype. Although bulk soil exhibited higher bacterial diversity, nodule microbiomes were less diverse but more specialized, indicating host-mediated selection. A comparison of the nodule microbiomes of wild and cultivated pigeonpea revealed distinct differences, with the core nodule microbiome of wild pigeonpea dominated by Bradyrhizobium, while that of cultivated pigeonpea exhibited a diverse bacterial community.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings demonstrate that soil properties play a more critical role than host genetics in shaping the pigeonpea nodule microbiome, emphasizing the importance of environmental conditions in symbiotic interactions. The differences between wild and cultivated genotypes suggest that domestication has altered microbial recruitment strategies. This study provides foundational insights into the factors driving microbial assembly in pigeonpea nodules, with implications for improving crop productivity through targeted microbial management. Future research should explore the functional roles of these microbial communities to optimize their use in sustainable agriculture.},
}

@article {pmid40269580,
year = {2025},
author = {Ahrar, M and Glenn, L and Held, M and Jackson, A and Kus, K and Hurst, GDD and Chrostek, E},
title = {Development of Antisense Tools to Study Bodo saltans and Its Intracellular Symbiont.},
journal = {MicrobiologyOpen},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {e70018},
pmid = {40269580},
issn = {2045-8827},
support = {//This study was funded by Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation's Symbiosis in Aquatic Systems Initiative, Grant ID: #9357 (10.37807/GBMF9357), awarded to G.H., E.C., and A.J./ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis/genetics ; Animals ; *Kinetoplastida/microbiology/genetics/physiology ; *RNA, Antisense/genetics ; },
abstract = {Obligate symbioses are common in nature and present a particular challenge for functional genetic analysis. In many cases, the host is a non-model species with poor tools for genetic manipulation, and the symbiont cannot be cultured or its gene expression manipulated to investigate function. Here, we investigated the potential for using antisense inhibition to analyze host and symbiont gene function within an obligate aquatic symbiosis. We focused on the kinetoplastid host Bodo saltans and its bacterial symbiont, Candidatus Bodocaedibacter vickermanii, a member of Rickettsiales. We conclude that antisense inhibition is not feasible in the Bodo saltans and its symbiont, as the holobiont feeds on the antisense molecules-and increases in numbers-upon treatment with the antisense construct. Although our approach has proven unsuccessful, we have developed an array of protocols that can be used to study the biology of this microeukaryote and its microbial associates.},
}

*Symbiosis/genetics
Animals
*Kinetoplastida/microbiology/genetics/physiology
*RNA, Antisense/genetics

@article {pmid40269010,
year = {2025},
author = {Heidari Latibari, M and Carolina Arias-Penna, D and Ghafouri Moghaddam, M and Butcher, BA},
title = {Bacterial symbiont as game changers for Aphis craccivora Koch's fitness and survival across distinct climate types.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {14208},
pmid = {40269010},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {BCG_FF_68_178_2300_039//Thailand Science Research and Innovation/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis ; *Aphids/microbiology/physiology ; Animals ; Climate ; Serratia/physiology ; Buchnera/physiology ; Medicago sativa/parasitology ; Enterobacteriaceae/physiology ; },
abstract = {Symbiotic bacteria play a crucial role in the survival, development, and adaptation of aphids to environmental conditions. Buchnera aphidicola (Enterobacterales: Erwiniaceae), the obligate endosymbiont of aphids, is essential for their fitness, while facultative symbionts may provide additional ecological advantages under specific conditions. A comprehensive understanding of how these symbiotic relationships respond to different climatic environments is essential for assessing aphid adaptability and potential implications for biological control. The present study investigates the vital interactions between the obligate bacterial endosymbiont, Buchnera aphidicola, and four facultative bacterial endosymbionts (Arsenophonus sp., Hamiltonella defensa, Serratia symbiotica, and Regiella insecticola), in black cowpea aphid (BCA), in the context of different climate conditions. The BCA specimens were obtained from the leaves of the host plant, alfalfa, cultivated in three distinct climates: cold semi-arid, hot desert, and humid subtropical climates. The findings, as anticipated, indicated a pervasive prevalence of B. aphidicola in BCAs infesting alfalfa crops across all three climate types. In contrast, the BCAs of each climate type exhibited a distinct array of facultative symbionts. The highest number of facultative endosymbionts was exhibited by BCAs from the humid subtropical climate, followed by BCAs from the cold semi-arid climate, whereas none of them were detected in BCAs from the hot desert climate. Rigiella insecticola was not detected molecularly in any of the BCAs from the three climates. Following the eradication of the obligate symbiont Buchnera aphidicola by the antibiotic rifampicin in BCAs, the effects on three categories of parameters were assessed, including life cycle stages, reproductive traits, and external morphological characteristics of adults. The most significant adverse effects were observed in BCAs inhabiting hot desert followed by those inhabiting cold semi-arid climate; detrimental effects in BCAs of the humid subtropical climate were considerably less pronounced. The observed discrepancies in the parameters of BCAs from the humid subtropical climate can be attributed to the presence of a greater number of facultative symbionts, especially the presence of Serratia symbiotica (Enterobacterales: Yersiniaceae). Following the eradication of B. aphidicola, this facultative symbiont continues to complement the functions of B. aphidicola in the host's survival. Conversely, the low presence of facultative symbionts in cold semi-arid climate or even their absence in hot desert climate exacerbates the negative effects of obligate symbiont eradication. These findings highlight the crucial role of symbionts in aphid biology across a spectrum of climatic conditions, and suggest that shifts in symbiotic relationships may modulate aphid fitness, which could have implications for biological control programs.},
}

*Symbiosis
*Aphids/microbiology/physiology
Animals
Climate
Serratia/physiology
Buchnera/physiology
Medicago sativa/parasitology
Enterobacteriaceae/physiology

@article {pmid40268344,
year = {2025},
author = {Förster, F and Sauzéat, L and Ferrier-Pagès, C and Reynaud, S and Sheldrake, TE},
title = {Redox-sensitive δ65Cu isotopic fractionation in the tissue of the scleractinian coral Stylophora pistillata: A biomarker of holobiont photophysiology following volcanic ash exposure.},
journal = {Metallomics : integrated biometal science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/mtomcs/mfaf011},
pmid = {40268344},
issn = {1756-591X},
abstract = {Volcanic ash is a significant source of micronutrients including iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) in oligotrophic tropical waters. These bioactive metals enhance primary productivity, influencing local and global biogeochemical cycles. This study e10xplores how volcanic ash exposure affects trace metal uptake and photophysiological response, and how redox-sensitive metal stable isotope measurements in the tissues of the scleractinian coral Stylophora pistillata can provide crucial information on coral health. Controlled coral culture experiments were conducted in which coral nubbins were exposed to varying intensity and duration of volcanic ash. Throughout the experiment, coral symbionts showed enhanced photosynthetic performance irrespective of intensity or duration of ash exposure. Stable isotopes, such as δ[65]Cu and δ56Fe, in the coral tissue are marked by systematic variations, not associated with intensity or duration of ash exposure. Instead, we suggest biologically modulated redox-sensitive fractionation associated with ash exposure, linked to the coral host's oxidative stress state. This is evidenced by significant correlations between δ[65]Cu in coral hosts and photophysiology, with lighter Cu isotope ratios associated with higher photosynthetic performances. Hence, we propose that δ65Cu, and more generally redox-sensitive isotopic ratios (i.e. δ56Fe), in coral hosts serve as an indicator of the physiological state of symbiotic corals.},
}

@article {pmid40267814,
year = {2025},
author = {Feng, L and Zhang, K and Liu, Z and Liu, C and Kang, J},
title = {Study on wastewater treatment characteristics and microbial ecosystem of bacteria-algae symbiosis coupling under carbon neutralization background.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {383},
number = {},
pages = {125331},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125331},
pmid = {40267814},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {At present, environmental pollution is becoming more and more serious, the sustainable development of human society is facing severe challenges. As a crucial nexus for pollutant discharge and greenhouse gas emissions, the establishment of carbon-neutral wastewater treatment processes in wastewater treatment plants, aiming to achieve coordinated development of pollution reduction and carbon mitigation, constitutes a pivotal pathway for environmental governance in the new era. The bacteria-algae symbiotic culture system, based on microalgae biological treatment technology, integrates wastewater treatment, carbon fixation, and biomass energy recovery. It represents a green, low-carbon, economical, and sustainable integrated sewage treatment technology, aligning with the requirements of carbon neutrality. This study constructed an algae-assisted sequencing batch photobioreactor (A-SBPBR) and individual microalgal systems to compare the degradation efficiencies of soluble chemical oxygen demand (sCOD), ammonia nitrogen (AN), and total phosphorus (TP) in high-strength food waste anaerobic digestion effluent (ADE), with high-throughput sequencing conducted to analyze bacterial community dynamics and microbial ecological shifts, coupled with carbon accounting model integration to quantify system-specific carbon emission reduction capacities. Experimental results demonstrated that the bacteria-algae symbiotic system achieved removal efficiencies of 58.89 %, 91.94 %, and 78.89 % for sCOD, AN, and TP, respectively, when treating ADE. Notably, the sCOD degradation rate was approximately 8 % higher than that of the pure algal system. At the phylum level, the bacterial community structure within the symbiotic system exhibited greater diversity and balanced phylum distribution. At the class level, the relative abundances of Gammaproteobacteria, Anaerolineae, and Microgenomatia increased by 5-12 %, 11-14 %, and 2-6 %, respectively, compared to the pure algal system. Carbon footprint analysis revealed that treating 1 m[3] of ADE with the symbiotic system reduced CO2 emissions by 51.2 g compared to conventional aerobic processes and lowered CH4 emissions (expressed as CO2 equivalents) by 111.94 g relative to anaerobic processes. These findings indicate that the bacteria-algae symbiotic technology synergistically combines high-efficiency pollutant removal with carbon sequestration capabilities, providing a viable solution for wastewater treatment aligned with carbon neutrality objectives.},
}

@article {pmid40266833,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, YH and Wang, M and Chang, XP and Ke, YL and Li, ZQ},
title = {Comparison Between Worker and Soldier Transcriptomes of Termite Neotermes binovatus Reveals Caste Specialization of Host-Flagellate Symbiotic System.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {16},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/insects16030325},
pmid = {40266833},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {2023A1515011424//Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province of China/ ; },
abstract = {Termites are eusocial insects with functionally specialized workers and soldiers, both sharing the same genotype. Additionally, lower termites host flagellates in their hindguts that assist in wood digestion. However, worker-biased and soldier-biased gene expression patterns of the host-flagellate symbiotic system remain underexplored in most taxonomic groups. In this study, we sequenced high-depth transcriptomes from the workers and soldiers of a lower termite, Neotermes binovatus (Kalotermitidae), to investigate the differentially expressed termite transcripts, flagellate transcript abundance, and co-expression patterns of the host-flagellate transcript pairs in both castes. The worker-biased transcripts were enriched in functions related to cuticle development, nervous system regulation, pheromone biosynthesis, and metabolism, whereas the soldier-biased transcripts were predominantly involved in muscle development and kinesis, body morphogenesis, protein modification, and aggression. Flagellate transcripts from the orders Cristamonadida, Trichomonadida, Tritrichomonadida, and Oxymonadida were identified in both workers and soldiers, with the abundance of most flagellate transcripts tending to be higher in workers than in soldiers. Furthermore, we observed a much larger number of strong co-expression correlations between the termite and flagellate transcripts in workers than in soldiers, suggesting the possibility that soldiers depend more on food processed by worker holobionts than on their own symbiotic system. This research provides insights into the functional specialization of the host-flagellate symbiotic system in the worker and soldier castes of termites, supporting the workers' roles in nest maintenance, preliminary food processing, and communication, while emphasizing the defensive role of soldiers. Additionally, it offers new perspectives on the potential termite-flagellate interactions and underscores the need for whole-genome data of termite flagellates in further studies.},
}

@article {pmid40266768,
year = {2025},
author = {Yu, Q and Niu, R and Gao, X and Luo, J and Cui, J and Wang, L and Zhu, X},
title = {Pseudomonas Infection Affects the Growth and Development of Aphis gossypii by Disrupting Energy Metabolism and Reproductive Processes.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {16},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/insects16030238},
pmid = {40266768},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {2023ZD04062//Science and Technology Innovation 2030/ ; 2022QNRC001//Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program by CAST/ ; Y2023QC23//the Youth Innovation Program of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences/ ; },
abstract = {For instance, Pseudomonas is involved in numerous life processes of A. gossypii and exerts a significant influence on its physiological indicators. The results demonstrate that Pseudomonas infection disturbs the normal growth and development of A. gossypii, resulting in a substantial reduction in the number of offspring. Compared with the uninfected control group, the innate rate of increase and the endogenous growth rate are markedly lower. Moreover, RNA-sequencing revealed that genes related to energy synthesis and nutrient metabolism were significantly upregulated in A. gossypii infected with Pseudomonas. Simultaneously, the infection led to a significant downregulation of genes related to alkaline phosphatase in the folate-synthesis pathway and histone proteinase B synthesis in the metabolism pathway of A. gossypii. These experimental findings indicate that Pseudomonas infection disrupts the growth and development of A. gossypii, specifically manifested as a significant upregulation of genes related to energy synthesis and nutrient metabolism and a downregulation of genes related to reproduction. Overall, these results offer support for the study of the interactions between aphids and symbiotic bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid40266412,
year = {2025},
author = {Mouras, N and Lemonnier, H and Crossay, T and Gututauava, K and Mathian, M and Robin, SL and Tardivel, O and Marchand, C},
title = {Variability of the optical signatures of dissolved organic matter in soils of different mangrove stands (Ouvéa, New Caledonia).},
journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40266412},
issn = {1614-7499},
support = {ANR-22-PEXF-00012//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; MODIcarb//Institut national des sciences de l'Univers/ ; },
abstract = {Mangrove ecosystems are known to play a key role in the global carbon cycle, due to their productivity and their ability for carbon sequestration both in the biomass and in the soil. In the latter, various geochemical processes lead to the production of dissolved organic matter (DOM) that can be exported through tidal pumping and then constitute an important source of organic carbon for adjacent ecosystems. DOM characteristics, and their variabilities, within mangrove soils depend on several factors, including the mangrove species, yet these variations and their origin still need to be precisely constrained. This study examined DOM sources in soils of a carbonate atoll mangrove (Ouvéa, New Caledonia), focusing on two tree species, Rhizophora apiculata and Bruguiera gymnorhiza, at different growth stages. We analysed porewater properties and DOM optical characteristics through spectroscopic and EEM-PARAFAC methods. Our results indicate distinct TOC and DOC concentrations across species, with mature B. gymnorhiza soils showing the highest TOC content (~ 30%) but the lowest DOC content (32 mg L[-1]). These differences seem not to be directly related to site physicochemical conditions (redox, pH, salinity) but may rather reflect differences in DOM sources and production, notably due to different symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi, which influence microbial activity and organic matter diagenesis. DOM absorbance patterns also varied significantly between species: Beneath R. apiculata, DOM had higher protein-like and fulvic-like fluorescence, indicating fresher organic matter, while beneath B. gymnorhiza, especially in mature stands, DOM was more humified, suggesting older OM because of a possible long-term accumulation due to the basin-like morphology of this site.},
}

@article {pmid40266381,
year = {2025},
author = {Cuny, MAC and Gloder, G and Bourne, ME and Kalisvaart, SN and Verreth, C and Crauwels, S and Cusumano, A and Lievens, B and Poelman, EH},
title = {Parasitoid Calyx Fluid and Venom Affect Bacterial Communities in Their Lepidopteran Host Labial Salivary Glands.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {88},
number = {1},
pages = {33},
pmid = {40266381},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {ALWOP.368//Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research/ ; ALWOP.368//Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research/ ; ALWOP.368//Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research/ ; ALWOP.368//Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research/ ; ALWOP.368//Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research/ ; G.0961.19 N//Flemish Fund for Scientific Research/ ; G.0961.19 N//Flemish Fund for Scientific Research/ ; G.0961.19 N//Flemish Fund for Scientific Research/ ; G.0961.19 N//Flemish Fund for Scientific Research/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Salivary Glands/microbiology ; *Wasps/physiology ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification/drug effects ; *Microbiota ; Larva/parasitology/microbiology ; Host-Parasite Interactions ; *Butterflies/microbiology/parasitology ; Hemolymph/microbiology ; Polydnaviridae/physiology ; *Wasp Venoms/pharmacology ; *Moths/microbiology/parasitology ; },
abstract = {The influence of gut and gonad bacterial communities on insect physiology, behaviour, and ecology is increasingly recognised. Parasitism by parasitoid wasps alters many physiological processes in their hosts, including gut bacterial communities. However, it remains unclear whether these changes are restricted to the gut or also occur in other tissues and fluids, and the mechanisms underlying such changes are unknown. We hypothesise that host microbiome changes result from the injection of calyx fluid (that contain symbiotic viruses known as polydnaviruses) and venom during parasitoid oviposition and that these effects vary by host tissue. To test this, we microinjected Pieris brassicae caterpillars with calyx fluid and venom from Cotesia glomerata, using saline solution and natural parasitism by C. glomerata as controls. We analysed changes in the bacterial community composition in the gut, regurgitate, haemolymph, and labial salivary glands of the host insects. Multivariate analysis revealed distinct bacterial communities across tissues and fluids, with high diversity in the salivary glands and haemolymph. Parasitism and injection of calyx fluid and venom significantly altered bacterial communities in the salivary glands. Differential abundance analysis showed that parasitism affected bacterial relative abundance in the haemolymph, and that Wolbachia was only found in the haemolymph of parasitized caterpillars. Altogether, our findings reveal that parasitism influences the host haemolymph microbiome, and both parasitism and injection of calyx fluid and venom drive changes in the bacterial community composition within the host salivary glands. Given that the composition of salivary glands can influence plant response to herbivory, we discuss these results in the broader context of plant-parasitoid interactions.},
}

Animals
*Salivary Glands/microbiology
*Wasps/physiology
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification/drug effects
*Microbiota
Larva/parasitology/microbiology
Host-Parasite Interactions
*Butterflies/microbiology/parasitology
Hemolymph/microbiology
Polydnaviridae/physiology
*Wasp Venoms/pharmacology
*Moths/microbiology/parasitology

@article {pmid40265877,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Y and Zhong, L and Fang, H and Liu, Z and Wang, P and Li, L and Chen, L and Ding, G},
title = {Bioactive Metabolites from the Dusty Seeds of Gastrodia elata Bl., Based on Metabolomics and UPLC-Q-TOF-MS Combined with Molecular Network Strategy.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants14060916},
pmid = {40265877},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {2023-I2M-2-006//the CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences (CIFMS)/ ; 22373030//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Orchids produce tiny, light seeds (dust-like seeds without endosperm) that rely on specific symbiotic fungi for successful germination. Plant roots often release small signaling molecules or bioactive compounds to attract arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, promoting fungal growth and hyphal branching. However, until now, no such bioactive or signaling molecules have been identified in orchids that help recruit fungi for seed germination. In this study, we used metabolomics and UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, combined with a molecular network approach, to explore potential bioactive/signaling molecules in the seeds of the achlorophyllous orchid Gastrodia elata Bl. Our analysis revealed the presence of amino acids, nucleotides, lipids, organic acids, saccharides, phospholipids, and lignanamides. Specifically, organic acids, saccharides, and lignanamides were shown to promote the growth of Mycena osmundicola, a fungus important for seed germination. Additionally, lignanamides inhibited the plant pathogen Fusarium oxysporum and exhibited strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This is the first systematic identification of bioactive/signaling molecules in G. elata Bl. seeds, providing new insights into the symbiotic relationship between orchids and fungi.},
}

@article {pmid40265759,
year = {2025},
author = {Adam, AM and Alshahrani, TS and Alqarawi, AA and Dar, BA and Malik, JA and Abd-ElGawad, AM},
title = {The Role of Mycorrhizal Fungi in the Inter and Intraspecific Competition of Nicotiana glauca and Vachellia gerrardii.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants14060858},
pmid = {40265759},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {RSPD2025R676//Researchers Supporting Project, number RSPD2025R676, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia/ ; },
abstract = {A competition experiment between Vachellia gerrardii and invasive Nicotiana glauca Graham was conducted to assess the impact of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) symbiosis on the inter and intraspecific competition between the two species. Seedlings were established under mono and mixed plantations with different species proportions (3:1, 2:2, 1:3) and plant densities (1, 2, 3, and 4 plants/pot) for mixed and mono planting respectively, with and without AMF. The vegetative growth parameters (height, leaf area and number, total dry weight/plant, relative yield, relative yield total), roots characteristics (length, surface area, volume, tips number), competitive interaction (aggressivity), and physiological traits (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, photosynthesis, stomatal conductance) were measured to evaluate plant responses to AMF symbiosis and competition. The results revealed that AMF symbiosis significantly enhanced the vegetative parameters (leaf area, height, and total dry weight) in both species under mono and mixed plantations compared to plants without AMF. Under AMF treatment, in the interspecific competition, most vegetative and root parameters of N. glauca were higher than V. gerrardii. At inoculant and species proportions, the relative yield of N. glauca exceeded that for V. gerrardii; however, N. glauca was more aggressive towards V. gerrardii. N. glauca root indices were higher than V. gerrardii under inter and intraspecific competition. Simultaneously, for both species, in monoculture plantations, most parameters decreased as plant density increased, wherein the decrease was higher for plants grown without AMF. Photosynthesis increased in AMF treatment, particularly for N. glauca. In conclusion, AMF promoted the growth of invasive N. glauca more than native V. gerrardii, particularly in terms of the root system. Our results provide a critical perspective that the AMF has the potential to contribute and facilitate the invasion of N. glauca, as well as support it with a competitive advantage over V. gerrardii, thus highlighting its potential role in shaping plant-plant interaction in invaded habitats.},
}

@article {pmid40265726,
year = {2025},
author = {Rawat, A and Han, B and Patel, N and Allehaibi, H and Rosado, AS and Hirt, H},
title = {Symbiotic plant-bacterial-fungal interaction orchestrates ethylene and auxin signaling for optimized plant growth.},
journal = {The Plant journal : for cell and molecular biology},
volume = {122},
number = {2},
pages = {e70174},
doi = {10.1111/tpj.70174},
pmid = {40265726},
issn = {1365-313X},
support = {BAS/1/1062-01-01//King Abdullah University of Science and Technology/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis/physiology ; *Arabidopsis/microbiology/growth & development/physiology ; *Indoleacetic Acids/metabolism ; *Ethylenes/metabolism ; Signal Transduction ; *Enterobacter/physiology ; *Basidiomycota/physiology ; Endophytes/physiology ; Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism ; Rhizosphere ; Plant Development ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; },
abstract = {The complex and mutual interactions between plants and their associated microbiota are key for plant survival and fitness. From the myriad of microbes that exist in the soil, plants dynamically engineer their surrounding microbiome in response to varying environmental and nutrient conditions. The notion that the rhizosphere bacterial and fungal community acts in harmony with plants is widely acknowledged, yet little is known about how these microorganisms interact with each other and their host plants. Here, we explored the interaction of two well-studied plant beneficial endophytes, Enterobacter sp. SA187 and the fungus Serendipita indica. We show that these microbes show inhibitory growth in vitro but act in a mutually positive manner in the presence of Arabidopsis as a plant host. Although both microbes can promote plant salinity tolerance, plant resilience is enhanced in the ternary interaction, revealing that the host plant has the ability to positively orchestrate the interactions between microbes to everyone's benefit. In conclusion, this study advances our understanding of plant-microbiome interaction beyond individual plant-microbe relationships, unveiling a new layer of complexity in how plants manage microbial communities for optimal growth and stress resistance.},
}

*Symbiosis/physiology
*Arabidopsis/microbiology/growth & development/physiology
*Indoleacetic Acids/metabolism
*Ethylenes/metabolism
Signal Transduction
*Enterobacter/physiology
*Basidiomycota/physiology
Endophytes/physiology
Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism
Rhizosphere
Plant Development
Plant Roots/microbiology

@article {pmid40265110,
year = {2025},
author = {Zulfiqar, S and Gu, R and Liu, Y and Zhang, Y},
title = {From genes to traits: maximizing phosphorus utilization efficiency in crop plants.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1527547},
pmid = {40265110},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Phosphorus (P) is a critical macronutrient for plant growth, but its limited availability requires efficient utilization strategies. The excessive use of P fertilizers leads to low phosphorus utilization efficiency (PUE), causing severe environmental impacts and speeding up the exhaustion of P mineral reserves. Plants respond to inorganic phosphate (Pi) deficiency through complex signaling pathways that trigger changes in gene expression, root architecture, and metabolic pathways to enhance P acquisition and utilization efficiency. By exploring the interplay between genetic regulators and microorganisms, cultivars with superior PUE traits can be developed, which will ensure agricultural resilience and productivity in the face of depleting global P reserves. We highlight the synergistic interaction between genetic regulators and microorganisms to boost PUE as well as recent advancements in unraveling molecular mechanisms governing P homeostasis in plants, emphasizing the urgency to improve plant traits for improved P utilization.},
}

@article {pmid40264335,
year = {2025},
author = {Barasarathi, J and Perveen, K and Khan, F and Muthukumaran, M and Debnath, A and Behera, M and Pongen, M and Sayyed, R and Mastinu, A},
title = {Targeting Agrobacterium tumefaciens: A Computational Study on Quorum Sensing Inhibition.},
journal = {Journal of basic microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70041},
doi = {10.1002/jobm.70041},
pmid = {40264335},
issn = {1521-4028},
support = {//King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Researchers Supporting Project Number RSP2025R358 and University of Brescia, "ex 60% - Mastinu"./ ; },
abstract = {Crown gall disease, caused by Agrobacterium tumefaciens, results in significant loss in agricultural productivity losses due to induced tumor-like growths on various crops. The virulence of A. tumefaciens is controlled by its quorum sensing (QS) system, specifically through the TraR protein, which regulates the expression of genes essential for pathogenicity and plasmid transfer. Beyond pathogenic interactions, QS plays a crucial role in the plant microbiome, influencing symbiosis, competition, and plant health. This study aimed to identify QS inhibitors (QSIs) that disrupt TraR-mediated signaling as a novel approach to mitigate crown gall disease while exploring broader implications for plant-microbe interactions. Using a combination of molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and protein-protein interaction analysis, we screened a library of potential QSIs and identified N-phenylselenourea as a potent candidate with a binding affinity of -8 kcal/mol to TraR. MD simulations confirmed the stability of this compound within the TraR binding pocket, with strong interactions observed with key residues such as Tyr53 and Asp70. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis supported these findings, highlighting the disruption of critical pathogenic pathways. Our findings underscore the dual benefits of QSIs, offering a targeted strategy to control A. tumefaciens infections while potentially enhancing plant-microbiome interactions for improved plant health. This study lays the groundwork for developing sustainable agricultural practices by leveraging QS disruption to manage plant diseases and promote beneficial microbial communities.},
}

@article {pmid40263940,
year = {2025},
author = {Gao, JP and Chiu, CH},
title = {Micronutrients: Minor yet Crucial for Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation.},
journal = {Plant communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101345},
doi = {10.1016/j.xplc.2025.101345},
pmid = {40263940},
issn = {2590-3462},
abstract = {Nodulation represents a crucial but energy-intensive strategy for legumes to survive in nutrient-poor soils. A recent study by Ren et al (2025)highlights the significance of micronutrients, particularly iron (Fe), in regulating symbiotic nitrogen fixation, which ensures that nodulation occurs only under favourable environmental conditions.},
}

@article {pmid40263668,
year = {2025},
author = {Yan, Q and Chen, Y and Tang, B and Wu, X and Zhou, H and Wang, H and Li, H and Lu, L and Zhang, H and Yang, S and Xu, C and Ma, T},
title = {Precise Engineering of Asymmetric Tri-active Sites by Symbiotic Strategy for Photocontrolled Directional Reforming of Biomass.},
journal = {Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e202505718},
doi = {10.1002/anie.202505718},
pmid = {40263668},
issn = {1521-3773},
abstract = {Sunlight-driven production of high-value chemicals from renewable resources represents a pivotal driver toward achieving sustainable energy supply. However, fundamental barriers include inadequate use of light energy and insufficient understanding of reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulating mechanisms in photocatalytic processes. To address this, a novel symbiotic strategy for design of Cux/TiO2 single-atom catalysts (SACs) supported by density functional theory (DFT) calculations was proposed. The developed catalyst achieved nearly 100% conversion and selectivity for the directional photo-oxidative transformation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5-diformylfuran (DFF) or 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) under both vis-light and UV-vis light conditions. Importantly, compared to previous works, this catalyst exhibited highest photo-oxidation activity while effectively suppressing over-oxidation of HMF to CO2. Mechanistic investigations revealed that rational construction of Cu SAs could effectively create the asymmetric Cu-Ov-Ti structure, which significantly enhanced activation of O2 and HMF, facilitating generation of oxygen vacancy (Ov) and Ti3+. Furthermore, Cu SAs served as hole (h+) extractors in the photo-oxidation process, promoting rapid charge carrier transfer and ROS formation. The applicability of this developed strategy was further demonstrated for photo-oxidative conversion of various bio-feedstocks including HMF and alcoholic substrates, indicating its great potential for harnessing light energy for sustainable valorization of biomass into high-value chemicals.},
}

@article {pmid40263612,
year = {2025},
author = {Shakiba, M and Tuveson, DA},
title = {Macrophages and fibroblasts as regulators of the immune response in pancreatic cancer.},
journal = {Nature immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40263612},
issn = {1529-2916},
support = {50340801//Lustgarten Foundation (Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research)/ ; U01CA224013//U.S. Department of Health & Human Services | NIH | National Cancer Institute (NCI)/ ; P30CA045508//U.S. Department of Health & Human Services | NIH | National Cancer Institute (NCI)/ ; R01CA2419002//U.S. Department of Health & Human Services | NIH | NCI | Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute (National Cancer Institute Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics)/ ; HT9425-24-1-0091//U.S. Department of Defense (United States Department of Defense)/ ; },
abstract = {Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the few cancers that has yet to benefit from immunotherapies. This is primarily a result of its characteristic 'cold' tumor microenvironment composed of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a dense network of extracellular matrix and several immune cell types, the most abundant of which are the tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Advances in single-cell and spatial technologies have elucidated the vast functional heterogeneity of CAFs and TAMs, their symbiotic relationship and their cooperative role in the tumor microenvironment. In this Review, we provide an overview of the heterogeneity of CAFs and TAMs, how they establish an immunosuppressive microenvironment and their collaboration in the remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Finally, we examine why the impact of immunotherapy in PDAC has been limited and how a detailed molecular and spatial understanding of the combined role of CAFs and TAMs is paramount to the design of effective therapies.},
}

@article {pmid40263549,
year = {2025},
author = {Nandigam, S and Mahendrakar, MD and Srungarapu, R and Chand, U and Gopalakrishnan, S and Thati, S and Vatluri, SR and Vadlamudi, S and Vemula, A and Kudapa, H and Samineni, S},
title = {Rapid generation advancement of RIL population and assessing the impact of Rhizobium nodulation on crop yields in Chickpea.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {13945},
pmid = {40263549},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {CRP-GLDC//Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centers/ ; },
mesh = {*Cicer/genetics/microbiology/growth & development ; Genotype ; *Plant Root Nodulation/genetics ; *Rhizobium/physiology ; Symbiosis ; Seeds/growth & development/genetics ; *Crops, Agricultural/growth & development/genetics/microbiology ; Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/genetics ; Nitrogen Fixation ; },
abstract = {Chickpea, a widely cultivated legume, actively fix atmospheric nitrogen in root nodules through a symbiotic relationship with rhizobia bacteria. A recombinant inbred line (RIL) population, progressing from F2 to F7 generations, was developed in a short-period of 18 months using the Rapid Generation Advancement (RGA) protocol. The F7 RILs were evaluated during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 crop seasons under typical field conditions to quantify the effects of nodulation on seed yield (SY) and its associated traits. The analysis of variance revealed a highly significant difference (P < 0.01) among genotypes for seed yield and other agronomic traits, with no significant seasonal effect. In the pooled analysis, nodulating genotypes (NG) exhibited a substantial increase (P < 0.01) in SY (62.55%), 100-seed weight (SW100; 12.21%), harvest index (HI; 6.40%), number of pods per plant (NPPP; 39.55%), and number of seeds per plant (NSPP; 44.37%) compared to non-nodulating genotypes (NNG). Both NG and NNG exhibited a significant (P < 0.01) positive correlation between SY and NPPP (r = 0.64 and 0.63), NSPP (r = 0.66 and 0.61), HI (r = 0.27), and number of primary branches per plant (PBr) (r = 0.31), respectively. The top-performing genotypes for yield and related traits were predominantly nodulating. Genotype-trait bi-plot analysis identified nine nodulating genotypes as the most adaptable across the two seasons-six for SY, plant height, SW100, and three for days to first flowering and maturity. These findings underscore the critical role of nodulation in maximizing chickpea yields and the significant yield penalties associated with non-nodulation. To boost chickpea production, future breeding efforts should focus on developing genotypes with high compatibility with rhizobium strains.},
}

*Cicer/genetics/microbiology/growth & development
Genotype
*Plant Root Nodulation/genetics
*Rhizobium/physiology
Symbiosis
Seeds/growth & development/genetics
*Crops, Agricultural/growth & development/genetics/microbiology
Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/genetics
Nitrogen Fixation

@article {pmid40262644,
year = {2025},
author = {Püffel, F and Kang, V and Yap, M and Shojaeifard, M and Bacca, M and Labonte, D},
title = {Behavioural biomechanics: leaf-cutter ant cutting behaviour depends on leaf edge geometry.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {292},
number = {2045},
pages = {20242926},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2024.2926},
pmid = {40262644},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//H2020 European Research Council/ ; //Human Frontier Science Program/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Ants/physiology ; *Plant Leaves/anatomy & histology ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; *Feeding Behavior ; *Behavior, Animal ; },
abstract = {Leaf-cutter ants cut fresh leaves to grow a symbiotic fungus as crop. During cutting, one mandible is typically anchored onto the leaf lamina while the other slices through it like a knife. When initiating cuts into the leaf edge, however, foragers sometimes deviate from this behaviour and instead use their mandibles symmetrically, akin to scissors. In vivo behavioural assays revealed that the preference for either of the two cutting strategies depended on leaf edge geometry and differed between natural leaf margins that were straight or serrated with notch-like folds: leaf-cutter ants displayed a strong preference for scissor-cutting when leaf edges were straight or had wide notches. This preference, however, reversed in favour of knife-cutting when notches were narrow. To investigate whether this behavioural difference had a mechanical origin, we mimicked knife-cutting in ex vivo cutting experiments: for wide notches, all but the sharpest mandibles failed to initiate cuts, or only did so at large forces, caused by substantial leaf buckling and bending. This increased force demand would substantially limit the ability of foragers to cut leaves, and so reduce the colony's access to food sources. Scissor-cutting may thus be an adaptation to the mechanical difficulties associated with bending and buckling of thin leaves.},
}

Animals
*Ants/physiology
*Plant Leaves/anatomy & histology
Biomechanical Phenomena
*Feeding Behavior
*Behavior, Animal

@article {pmid40262635,
year = {2025},
author = {Haro, R and Lee, R and Slamovits, CH},
title = {Unveiling the functional nature of retrogenes in dinoflagellates.},
journal = {Open biology},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {240221},
doi = {10.1098/rsob.240221},
pmid = {40262635},
issn = {2046-2441},
support = {//the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, NSERC/ ; },
mesh = {*Dinoflagellida/genetics ; *Retroelements ; Transcriptome ; Gene Ontology ; Phylogeny ; Molecular Sequence Annotation ; Symbiosis ; },
abstract = {Retroposition is a gene duplication mechanism that uses RNA molecules as intermediaries to generate new gene copies. Dinoflagellates are proposed as an ideal model for exploring this process due to the tagging of retrogenes with DNA-encoded remnants of the dinoflagellate-specific splice-leader motif at their 5' end. We conducted a comprehensive search for retrogenes in dinoflagellate transcriptomes to uncover their functional nature and the processes underlying their redundancy. We obtained a high-confidence set of hypothetical functional retrogenes widespread through the dinoflagellate lineage. Through annotations and gene ontology enrichment analysis, we found that the functional diversity of retrogenes reflects the most prevalent and active processes during stress periods, particularly those involving post-translational modifications and cell signalling pathways. Additionally, the significant presence of retrogenes linked to specific biological processes involved in symbiosis and toxin production underscores the role of retrogenes in adaptation. The expression profile and codon composition similar to protein-coding genes confirm the operational status of retrogenes and strengthen the idea that retrogenes recapitulate parental gene expression and function. This study provides new evidence supporting widespread gene retroposition across dinoflagellates and highlights the functional link of retrogenes with the core activity of the cell.},
}

*Dinoflagellida/genetics
*Retroelements
Transcriptome
Gene Ontology
Phylogeny
Molecular Sequence Annotation
Symbiosis

@article {pmid40262536,
year = {2025},
author = {Angeley, MNJ and Perlman, SJ},
title = {Symbiosis: A novel relationship cradled in venom.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {35},
number = {8},
pages = {R293-R295},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.016},
pmid = {40262536},
issn = {1879-0445},
mesh = {Animals ; *Wasps/physiology/microbiology/growth & development ; *Symbiosis ; Larva/microbiology/physiology/growth & development ; *Wasp Venoms/metabolism ; *Enterobacteriaceae/physiology ; },
abstract = {Spalangia wasps have evolved a new association with Sodalis bacteria, transmitting them in an unusual way. They inject them into a host, along with their venom and an egg; the wasp larva then ingests them while feeding on host tissue.},
}

Animals
*Wasps/physiology/microbiology/growth & development
*Symbiosis
Larva/microbiology/physiology/growth & development
*Wasp Venoms/metabolism
*Enterobacteriaceae/physiology

@article {pmid40261620,
year = {2025},
author = {Do, TQ and Palombo, EA and Zaferanloo, B},
title = {Applying Zymography Methods for the Detection of Enzymes from Fungal Endophytes.},
journal = {Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)},
volume = {2918},
number = {},
pages = {153-162},
pmid = {40261620},
issn = {1940-6029},
mesh = {*Endophytes/enzymology ; *Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel/methods ; *Fungi/enzymology ; *Enzyme Assays/methods ; *Fungal Proteins/metabolism/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {This chapter presents a method for the production and characterization of enzymes derived from fungal endophytes, which are symbiotic organisms residing within plants. Enzyme production is induced by cultivating the fungi on optimized growth media, and the resulting protein levels are monitored using the Bradford assay over a defined duration. Following protein depletion, the media is purified, and distinct enzymes are characterized using substrate-specific zymography employing sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels (SDS-PAGE) and appropriate buffers. Our findings underscore the efficacy of zymography in swiftly characterizing enzymes derived from fungal endophytes. This method holds significant promise for various biotechnological and industrial applications including, but not limited to, biofuel production and pharmaceuticals.},
}

*Endophytes/enzymology
*Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel/methods
*Fungi/enzymology
*Enzyme Assays/methods
*Fungal Proteins/metabolism/isolation & purification

@article {pmid40261617,
year = {2025},
author = {Dellagnola, FA and Godoy, MS and Vega, IA},
title = {Zymography Techniques for the Profiling of Digestive Protease in a Freshwater Invertebrate Model.},
journal = {Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)},
volume = {2918},
number = {},
pages = {107-123},
pmid = {40261617},
issn = {1940-6029},
mesh = {Animals ; *Peptide Hydrolases/metabolism/chemistry/isolation & purification ; *Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel/methods ; Fresh Water ; *Enzyme Assays/methods ; *Snails/enzymology ; Digestive System/enzymology ; },
abstract = {Zymography is a sensitive and specific technique that enables the detection and characterization of proteases of low abundance. Here, we describe two zymographic techniques, in-gel and in situ zymography, to discover proteases (20-120 kDa) along the gut of apple snails. Proteases of different molecular weights are separated by electrophoresis in gelatin copolymerized sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gels and then enzymatic activities revealed by Coomassie Blue negative staining. Protease families can be identified in the presence of specific inhibitors. We also use in situ zymography for localizing proteases in intracellular symbiotic corpuscles that habit in the digestive gland of the gastropod Pomacea canaliculata. Different spatial-temporal scenarios of protease synthesis, secretion, and hydrolysis of dietary proteins may be identified by a combination of in-gel and in situ zymography.},
}

Animals
*Peptide Hydrolases/metabolism/chemistry/isolation & purification
*Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel/methods
Fresh Water
*Enzyme Assays/methods
*Snails/enzymology
Digestive System/enzymology

@article {pmid40261263,
year = {2025},
author = {Hazel, CM and Panaccione, DG},
title = {A new species of Periglandula symbiotic with the morning glory Ipomoea tricolor.},
journal = {Mycologia},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/00275514.2025.2483634},
pmid = {40261263},
issn = {1557-2536},
abstract = {Many morning glories (family Convolvulaceae) contain ergot alkaloids-important bioactive compounds produced exclusively by fungi. The ergot alkaloids of the few investigated morning glories are associated with the presence of a symbiotic Clavicipitaceous fungus. The genus Periglandula (Clavicipitaceae) was erected recently for two epibiotic species of morning glory symbionts. Biochemical and limited sequence data indicate that Ipomoea tricolor, a commonly cultivated morning glory from Mexico, contains a Periglandula species, but no signs of the fungus have ever been detected. Our goal was to isolate and describe this fungus, which we hypothesize represents a new species. Observation of fungal hyphae in evacuated seed coats of I. tricolor and subsequent transfer onto malt extract agar resulted in cultures of the symbiont isolated from the plant. The fungus grew slowly as white hyphae and sometimes aggregated into synnema-like structures, both of which lacked spores. We isolated sufficient DNA to sequence the genome with Illumina technology. Phylogenetic analyses based on multiple genes indicated that the symbiont of I. tricolor was distinct from, but related to, the two described species of Periglandula previously observed in other species of morning glories. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), the fungus was quantified most abundantly in hypocotyls of I. tricolor, with lesser quantities in stems, cotyledons, and leaves. The fungus was not detected in roots, although ergot alkaloids were abundant in all tissues including roots. We conclude that the symbiotic fungus of I. tricolor is a distinct species of Periglandula and propose the name Periglandula clandestina, sp. nov.},
}

@article {pmid40260431,
year = {2025},
author = {Istanbuli, T and Alsamman, AM and Al-Shamaa, K and Abu Assar, A and Adlan, M and Kumar, T and Tawkaz, S and Hamwieh, A},
title = {Selection of high nitrogen fixation chickpea genotypes under drought stress conditions using multi-environment analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1490080},
pmid = {40260431},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Chickpea (*Cicer arietinum* L.) is an important pulse crop mainly grown in marginal lands around the world. Drought stress highly impacts symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) in chickpeas, which can limit productivity. Therefore, selecting high nitrogen fixation chickpea genotypes that can tolerate water stress is important for breeding programs.

METHODS: A total of 204 chickpea genotypes were assessed in eight different environments across Lebanon during the 2016 and 2017 growing seasons, under both rainfed and irrigated conditions. The study employed an Alpha Lattice design with two replications at two distinct locations. Data were collected for yield and nodule characteristics, then subjected to AMMI and GGE biplot analysis.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The AMMI analysis indicated that genotype (G), environments (E), and genotype × environment interaction (GEI) had significant effects on grain yield (P<0.001), highlighting the presence of genetic variation and the potential for selecting stable genotypes. The findings revealed that the environmental effect predominantly influenced chickpea grain yield, with GEI following, and G having the least impact. Environment explained 34.5% of the total (G + E + GE) variation, whereas G and GEI captured 16.4% and 24.3%, respectively. According to grain yield (GY), genotype IG70399 demonstrated the highest performance across all environments, while genotype IG8256 displayed the most consistent performance across different conditions. In a rainfed environment, genotype IG73394 had higher nodulation, while IG70384 and IG70410 had higher nodulation biomass (NB) under an irrigated environment. The NB for ten highly tolerant genotypes increased by 24% compared to the two susceptible genotypes under drought stress conditions, while the NB for these ten genotypes increased by 14.6% compared to all studied genotypes.},
}

@article {pmid40259211,
year = {2025},
author = {Maleki, N and Ghorbani, A and Rostami, M and Maina, S},
title = {Elucidating long non-coding RNA networks in tomato plants in response to Funneliformis mosseae colonization and cucumber mosaic virus infection.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {495},
pmid = {40259211},
issn = {1471-2229},
mesh = {*Solanum lycopersicum/genetics/microbiology/virology ; *RNA, Long Noncoding/genetics/metabolism ; *Cucumovirus/physiology ; *Plant Diseases/virology/microbiology/genetics ; RNA, Plant/genetics/metabolism ; MicroRNAs/genetics ; Symbiosis ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; },
abstract = {Tomato plants face biotic challenges like infections by cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), a member of the Cucumovirus genus in the Bromoviridae family, as well as beneficial interactions, such as colonization by the symbiotic fungus Funneliformis mosseae, which belongs to the Glomeraceae family. While this symbiosis boosts nutrient uptake and stress tolerance, viral infections can reduce yield and quality. Understanding how tomatoes manage these interactions is vital for enhancing crop productivity. To explore the molecular mechanisms behind these interactions, this study focuses on long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which play crucial roles in gene regulation, stress response, and plant metabolic pathways. Tomato RNA-seq data were analyzed to identify lncRNAs and their interactions with microRNAs (miRNAs) through de novo assembly, mapping, expression analysis, and localization prediction. In this study, 3210 lncRNAs were identified from 12 SRA datasets of tomato plants, including control, CMV-infected, F. mosseae-colonized, and co-infected samples. Among these, 3194 were novel lncRNAs and 16 were conserved. Expression analysis revealed significant differential expression patterns across treatments. Pathway analysis indicated that these lncRNAs are involved in key metabolic processes, such as carbon metabolism, amino acid biosynthesis, and secondary metabolite production, suggesting their role in enhancing disease resistance. Furthermore, we predicted interactions between identified lncRNAs and miRNAs, including miR160a, miR166a/b, miR167a, miR171a/b/c, miR1917, miR1918, and miR395a/b, thereby highlighting potential regulatory networks that could modulate stress responses. The subcellular localization of identified lncRNAs revealed a predominance in the cytoplasm, implying their involvement in post-transcriptional regulation. This study accentuates the significance of lncRNAs in tomato plant defense mechanisms and provides a foundation for future research focused on enriching resistance to viral infections and boosting stress resilience.},
}

*Solanum lycopersicum/genetics/microbiology/virology
*RNA, Long Noncoding/genetics/metabolism
*Cucumovirus/physiology
*Plant Diseases/virology/microbiology/genetics
RNA, Plant/genetics/metabolism
MicroRNAs/genetics
Symbiosis
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant

@article {pmid40258316,
year = {2025},
author = {Todeschini, V and Anastasia, F and Nalin, EC and Cesaro, P and Massa, N and Bona, E and Sampò, S and Berta, G and Barbato, R and Lingua, G},
title = {Effects of P nutrition on growth and photosynthetic activity of tomato plants inoculated or not with AM fungi.},
journal = {Plant physiology and biochemistry : PPB},
volume = {224},
number = {},
pages = {109923},
doi = {10.1016/j.plaphy.2025.109923},
pmid = {40258316},
issn = {1873-2690},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi colonize plant roots, improving mineral nutrition and promoting photosynthesis. Phosphorus (P) has a key role in plant physiology, affecting the photosynthetic process and being involved in sugar/carbon metabolism. The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis and P nutrition on the growth parameters and photosynthetic activity of tomato plants grown in controlled conditions. Plants were maintained in a growth chamber for 50 days and watered three times a week with a Long Ashton nutrient solution at three different P levels (32, 96 and 288 μM, respectively). At harvest, mycorrhizal colonization, biomass production, P and photosynthetic pigment concentrations were measured. Moreover, the photosynthetic efficiency relating to the activity of the two photosystems and the biochemical analysis of proteins extracted from thylakoid membranes were also performed. Results showed that inoculation did not affect growth parameters. AM symbiosis was strongly inhibited at the highest P level. Plant biomass production was positively correlated with increasing level of P. The analysis of chlorophyll fluorescence in inoculated plants highlighted that Y(I), Y(II), ETR(I), ETR(II) varied proportionally to the AM colonization and inversely proportionally to the P supply, whether this effect on NPQ and ETR occurs by a modulation of the xanthophyll cycle, remains to be established.},
}

@article {pmid40256278,
year = {2025},
author = {Kolaksazov, M and Vasileva, I and Stoycheva, I},
title = {Physiological and biochemical response of mixed lupine and barley cultures under changing environmental conditions during spring.},
journal = {Physiology and molecular biology of plants : an international journal of functional plant biology},
volume = {31},
number = {3},
pages = {493-505},
pmid = {40256278},
issn = {0971-5894},
abstract = {Mixed cultivation of grass-legume forage crops, such as lupine (Lupinus albus L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), offers significant advantages in terms of nitrogen utilization, stress resistance and a balanced diet for ruminants. This study explored the symbiotic effects of these crops on photosynthesis and stress tolerance via measuring key physiological and biochemical parameters. Measurements were performed on the photosynthetic activity, chlorophyll and carotenoid content, glycolate oxidase activity, antioxidant capacity, and total phenolic content. The varying temperatures during May, allowed the effects of mixed cultivation on the response to chilling to be analyzed. Notably, barley monoculture was the most affected by the decreased temperatures. In general, mixed culture showed mitigation of the effects from chilling, as compared with both lupine and barley monocultures alone. These results suggest an adaptive synergy between lupine and barley, highlighting the potential advantages of mixed cultivation for improving stress tolerance and overall crop performance.},
}

@article {pmid40256268,
year = {2025},
author = {Tian, Y and Zhang, L and Wang, Z and He, Z and Shu, L},
title = {Light Affects Host-Symbiont Dynamics in the Non-Photosynthetic Social Amoeba Symbiosis.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {e71320},
pmid = {40256268},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Light significantly influences phototactic behaviors and host-bacterial interactions of photosynthetic microorganisms such as algae. The non-photosynthetic slime mound amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum as the host shows phototaxis in the multicellular slugs, but the impact of light on amoeba-bacteria interactions remains unclear. Here we utilized two different clades of symbiotic Paraburkholderia species, namely Paraburkholderia agricolaris B1QS70 and Paraburkholderia hayleyella B2QS11, to investigate the light-induced symbiosis between the host amoebae and symbiotic bacteria. Our findings propose two light-induced symbiotic types (type I and type II termed from this study) likely due to amoebae metabolites or bacterial infection efficiency. The type I symbiosis reveals increased symbiotic B1QS70 amount in amoebae QS9 under light, while stable amounts persist in amoebae QS11 and QS70, both of which are native hosts of symbiotic Paraburkholderia species. Furthermore, the transcriptomics analysis suggests that certain upregulated genes, such as lectin genes, may play crucial roles in inducing the symbiosis of P. agricolaris B1QS70 in amoebae QS9 and QS70 under light stimulation. Conversely, the type II symbiosis enhances interactions between P. hayleyella B2QS11 and three individual amoebae clones (QS9, QS11, or QS70) in dark conditions due to the strong infection capability and high growth rates of B2QS11. Transcriptomic data show that a cluster of heat shock genes is upregulated in amoebae QS9 with B2QS11 under dark, indicating an immune response to the non-native host QS9, rather than that of in QS11 as the native host of B2QS11. Blue-light sensors like Cryptochrome/DNA photolyase in Paraburkholderia species might regulate the growth rate by light stimulation. These findings highlight light-regulated symbiosis between amoebae and two distinct Paraburkholderia species, indicating that light may be crucial for regulating amoebae-symbionts dynamics.},
}

@article {pmid40255466,
year = {2025},
author = {Mfangnia, CNT and Tonnang, HEZ and Tsanou, B and Keith Herren, J},
title = {An eco-epidemiological model for malaria with Microsporidia MB as bio-control agent.},
journal = {Modeling earth systems and environment},
volume = {11},
number = {3},
pages = {221},
pmid = {40255466},
issn = {2363-6203},
abstract = {Microsporidia MB is an endosymbiont which naturally infects Anopheles mosquitoes. Due to its ability to block Plasmodium transmission, it shows potential as a bio-based agent for the control of malaria. Its self-sustainability is promising, as it can spread through both vertical and horizontal transmissions. However, its low prevalence in mosquito populations remains a challenge. We develop an eco-epidemiological mathematical model describing the co-dynamics of Microsporidia MB (within mosquito population) and malaria (within human population). The model is used to assess the potential of Microsporidia MB-infected mosquitoes on the control of malaria infection. The results on the basic reproduction numbers, the stability of the equilibria, and the existence of bifurcations are obtained, providing conditions for the extinction and persistence of MB-infected mosquitoes. We highlight relevant threshold parameters for the elimination and persistence of MB-infected mosquitoes and malaria-infected individuals. Using real data from Kenya, we found that, given a horizontal transmission rate between 0 and 0.5, a minimum vertical rate of 0.55 is required to avoid extinction of MB-infected mosquitoes. The predicted prevalence of MB-infected mosquitoes using transmission rates reported from lab experiments align with the observed low prevalence of MB-infected mosquitoes in the field, thereby validating our model and results. Finally, predictions indicate that increasing MB mosquito infection could effectively control malaria, with target prevalence varying by region: 15% in Highland, 40% on the coast, and 70% in the Lake region. This study offers insights into the use of bio-based vector population replacement solutions to reduce malaria incidence in regions where Microsporidia MB is prevalent.},
}

@article {pmid40253436,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, J and Zheng, X and Yu, T and Ali, M and Wiese, J and Hu, S and Huang, L and Huang, Y},
title = {Diverse lifestyles and adaptive evolution of uncultured UBA5794 actinobacteria, a sister order of "Candidatus actinomarinales".},
journal = {Environmental microbiome},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {39},
pmid = {40253436},
issn = {2524-6372},
support = {92351301, 32470005, 42376238, and 32393970//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 91751000//Major Research Plan of the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; GML20240002//the PI Project of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou)/ ; },
abstract = {Uncultured UBA5794 actinobacteria are frequently found in marine and inland water environments by using metagenomic approaches. However, knowledge about these actinobacteria is limited, hindering their isolation and cultivation, and they are always confused with "Candidatus Actinomarinales" based on 16S rRNA gene classification. Here, to conduct genomic characterization of them, we obtained three high-quality UBA5794 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from a hydrothermal sediment on the Carlsberg Ridge (CR) and retrieved 131 high-quality UBA5794 genomes from public datasets. Phylogenomic analysis confirms UBA5794 as an independent order within the class Acidimicrobiia. Genome-based metabolic predictions reveal that flexible metabolism and diversified energy acquisition, as well as heavy metal(loid) detoxification capacity, are crucial for the ability of UBA5794 to thrive in diverse environments. Moreover, there is separation between sponge-associated and free-living UBA5794 groups in phylogeny and functional potential, which can be attributed to the symbiotic nature of the sponge-associated group and the extensive horizontal gene transfer (HGT) events observed in these bacteria. Ancestral state reconstruction suggests that the UBA5794 clade may have originated from a free-living environment and then some members gradually migrated to the sponge host. Overall, our study sheds light on the ecological adaptation and evolutionary history of the ubiquitous but poorly understood UBA5794 actinobacteria.},
}

@article {pmid40252635,
year = {2025},
author = {Taylor, H and Uhlig, HH and Powrie, F},
title = {Autoimmunity in inflammatory bowel disease: a holobiont perspective.},
journal = {Current opinion in immunology},
volume = {94},
number = {},
pages = {102557},
doi = {10.1016/j.coi.2025.102557},
pmid = {40252635},
issn = {1879-0372},
abstract = {Adaptive immunity towards self-antigens (autoimmunity) and intestinal commensal microbiota is a key feature of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Considering mucosal adaptive immunity from a holobiont perspective, where the host and its microbiome form a single physiological unit, emphasises the challenge of avoiding damaging responses to self-antigen and symbiotic microbial communities in the gut while protecting against potential pathogens. Intestinal tolerance mechanisms prevent maladaptive T and B cell responses to microbial, environmental, and self-antigens, which drive inflammation. We discuss the spectrum of antimicrobial and autoantibody responses and highlight mechanisms by which common IBD-associated adaptive immune responses contribute to disease.},
}

@article {pmid40251928,
year = {2025},
author = {Boem, F and Lamminpää, I and Amedei, A},
title = {Updating the Discontinuity Theory to the Extended Immunity: The Symmunobiome Concept.},
journal = {European journal of immunology},
volume = {55},
number = {4},
pages = {e202451528},
pmid = {40251928},
issn = {1521-4141},
support = {PE0000006//Italian Ministry of University and Research MNESYS/ ; B55F2100//University of Florence-European Union-Next Generation EU-CUP/ ; B83C22003920001//The National Recovery and Resilience Plan, Investment 1.5 Ecosystems of Innovation, Project Tuscany Health Ecosystem (THE), CUP/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Microbiota/immunology ; Animals ; *Immune System/immunology ; Symbiosis/immunology ; Homeostasis/immunology ; *Immunity ; Biological Evolution ; Immunity, Innate ; Adaptive Immunity ; },
abstract = {The immune system (IS) is commonly understood as a system composed of specific cells and tissues that have evolved to contrast pathogens and defend the host. By virtue of this capacity, it has come to be considered capable of making an essential distinction, that between self versus non-self, which would contribute to a clear identity of the organism. However, in the wake of evolution and ecology, growing evidence suggests that the so-called immune system, which also evolved from symbiotic interactions with external agents, is not just a defensive system that merely protects the organism but, on the contrary, is involved in many global regulatory and homeostatic functions. Moreover, in performing these many functions, IS is not only an ensemble of host cells and tissues but functionally is constitutively determined by the interaction with a set of associated microorganisms, that is, the human microbiome. In this scenario, it is open-and-shut that the microbiome itself is a functional part of this extended immune system. Organisms and microbiomes together, therefore, form a functional whole, which constitutes a privileged form of biological organization. In light of this evidence showing the inadequacy of traditional accounts, we propose to extend and supplement the current IS conceptualization by introducing the notion of the symmunobiome. With this term, we intend to characterize the microbiome's own and unavoidable component to overall immune functionality. Therefore, we suggest a new immune system determination, articulated in three linked pillars-adaptive immunity, innate immunity, and symmunobiome-to better grasp the diverse functionality of extended immunity.},
}

Humans
*Microbiota/immunology
Animals
*Immune System/immunology
Symbiosis/immunology
Homeostasis/immunology
*Immunity
Biological Evolution
Immunity, Innate
Adaptive Immunity

@article {pmid40250433,
year = {2025},
author = {Rao, AK and Yee, D and Chevalier, F and LeKieffre, C and Pavie, M and Olivetta, M and Dudin, O and Gallet, B and Hehenberger, E and Seifi, M and Jug, F and Deschamps, J and Wu, TD and Gast, R and Jouneau, PH and Decelle, J},
title = {Hijacking and integration of algal plastids and mitochondria in a polar planktonic host.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.076},
pmid = {40250433},
issn = {1879-0445},
abstract = {In oceanic plankton, various hosts are capable of engulfing and temporarily integrating microalgae (photosymbiosis) or just their photosynthetic plastids (kleptoplastidy) from the environment. These cellular interactions have been hypothesized to be representative of evolutionary steps in plastid acquisition in eukaryotes, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, we studied a polar kleptoplastidic dinoflagellate, which is known to steal plastids of the microalga Phaeocystis antarctica. We tracked the morphology and activity of stolen plastids over several months by combining multimodal subcellular imaging and photophysiology. Upon integration inside a host vacuole, the volume of plastids and pyrenoids significantly increased, and photosynthetic activity was boosted. This may be supported by the retention of a 50-fold larger algal nucleus for ∼1 week. Once the algal nucleus was lost, there was a decrease in plastid volume and photosynthesis, but nucleus- and plastid-encoded photosystem subunits were still detected. Carbon fixation and transfer to the host were also maintained after >2 months. We also showed that the algal mitochondrion was stolen and retained for several months, transforming into an extensive network interacting with plastids. This highlights a complex strategy in plankton along the continuum of plastid symbioses, where both plastids and mitochondria of a microalga are hijacked by a host for several months without the algal nucleus. This association, which we found to be widely distributed in polar regions, suggests that plastid-mitochondrion interaction may have played a role in the evolution of plastid acquisition and opens new questions about host control and organelle maintenance.},
}

@article {pmid40248851,
year = {2025},
author = {Weber, SE and Bascompte, J and Kahmen, A and Niklaus, PA},
title = {AMF diversity promotes plant community phosphorus acquisition and reduces carbon costs per unit of phosphorus.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70161},
pmid = {40248851},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {FK-21-106//University of Zürich/ ; //Zürich-Basel Plant Science Center/ ; 310030_197201//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung/ ; },
abstract = {Plants may benefit from more diverse communities of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), as functional complementarity of AMF may allow for increased resource acquisition, and because a high AMF diversity increases the probability of plants matching with an optimal AMF symbiont. We repeatedly radiolabeled plants and AMF in the glasshouse over c. 9 months to test how AMF species richness (SR) influences the exchange of plant C ([14]C) for AMF P ([32]P & [33]P) and resulting shoot nutrients and mass from a biodiversity-ecosystem functioning perspective. Plant P acquisition via AMF increased with sown AMF SR, as did shoot biomass, shoot P, and shoot N. The rate of plant C transferred to AMF for this P (C:P) decreased with sown AMF SR. Plants in plant communities benefit from inoculation with a variety of AMF species via more favorable resource exchange. Surprisingly, this effect did not differ among functionally distinct communities comprised entirely of either legumes, nonlegume forbs, or C3 grasses.},
}

@article {pmid40247696,
year = {2025},
author = {Tortorelli, G and Rosset, SL and Sullivan, CES and Woo, S and Johnston, EC and Walker, NS and Hancock, JR and Caruso, C and Varela, AC and Hughes, K and Martin, C and Quinn, RA and Drury, C},
title = {Heat-induced Stress Modulates Cell Surface Glycans and Membrane Lipids of Coral Symbionts.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wraf073},
pmid = {40247696},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {The susceptibility of corals to environmental stress is determined by complex interactions between host genetic variation and the Symbiodiniaceae family community. We exposed genotypes of Montipora capitata hosting primarily Cladocopium or Durusdinium symbionts to ambient conditions and an eight-day heat stress. Symbionts' cell surface glycan composition differed between genera and was significantly affected by temperature and oxidative stress. The metabolic profile of coral holobionts was primarily shaped by symbionts identity, but was also strongly responsive to oxidative stress. At peak temperature stress, betaine lipids in Cladocopium were remodeled to more closely resemble the abundance and saturation state of Durusdinium symbionts, which paralleled a larger metabolic shift in Cladocopium. Exploring how Symbiodiniaceae members regulate stress and host-symbiont affinity helps identify the traits contributing to coral resilience under climate change.},
}

@article {pmid40247144,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhao, YW and Zhao, TT and Sun, Q and Liu, XL and Huang, XY and Li, LG and Wang, HB and Li, WK and Wang, CK and Wang, WY and Xiang, Y and Ma, CN and Chen, XS and Cheng, L and Hu, DG},
title = {Enrichment of two important metabolites D-galacturonic acid and D-glucuronic acid inhibits MdHb1-mediated fruit softening in apple.},
journal = {Nature plants},
volume = {11},
number = {4},
pages = {891-908},
pmid = {40247144},
issn = {2055-0278},
support = {32122080//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; tsqnz20231206//Taishan Scholar Project of Shandong Province/ ; },
abstract = {In apples, fruit firmness is a crucial quality trait influencing fruit storability, transportability, shelf life and consumer preference. However, the genetic network underlying this trait remains unclear. Therefore, the present study investigated the changes in apple fruit at different stages of postharvest storage using a combination of transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses. With prolonged storage, we detected a significant increase in two metabolites, D-galacturonic acid (D-GalUA) and D-glucuronic acid (D-GlcA), which are associated with a key class 1 non-symbiotic haemoglobin (MdHb1). We innovatively found that MdHb1 regulates fruit softening by catalysing the conversion from protopectin to water-soluble pectin. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that MdMYB2/MdNAC14/MdNTL9 transcription factors directly bind to the MdHb1 promoter to activate its transcriptional expression and promote fruit softening. Further injection experiments in apple fruit and histological as well as transmission electron microscopy analyses of the fruit samples revealed that D-GalUA and D-GlcA reduce the transcription of MdHb1, or through the MdMYB2/MdNAC14/MdNTL9-MdHb1 regulatory module, thereby delaying fruit softening. Our study provides novel insights into the role of two important metabolites, D-GalUA and D-GlcA, in the regulation of MdHb1-mediated fruit softening in apples.},
}

@article {pmid40245733,
year = {2025},
author = {Banerjee, A and Singh, S and Bhaskar, T and Venkata Mohan, S and Ghosh, D},
title = {Anaerobic conversion of de-oiled yeast biomass fractionation waste to biomethane and biohydrogen for resource efficiency in biorefineries.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {382},
number = {},
pages = {125337},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125337},
pmid = {40245733},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {High-value intracellular bio-compounds are extracted from microbial biomass through cell fractionation processes, which generate discharge streams. These discharges are rich in organic carbon and nitrogen that are derived from the soluble and insoluble protein and carbohydrate polymers. The present study investigated the anaerobic conversion of such a tertiary waste stream generated during the production of glucan-chitin complex through fractionation of de-oiled yeast biomass (a type of spent microbial biomass, which is the solid leftover residue of yeast lipid production process). Fed-batch anaerobic processes of methanogenesis and acidogenesis were investigated for the generated discharge streams. An average COD removal of 47 % with 294 and 323.51 mg VFA/g COD, with a maximum yield of 133.61 mL CH4/g COD and 53.45 mL H2/g COD in methanogenic and acidogenic fermentation was achieved. Considering CH4 production and COD removal, methanogenesis performed better, while in terms of VFA production and subsequent COD removal, acidogenesis was suitable. The investigation indicated the relevance of anaerobic processes for the conversion of de-oiled biomass fractionation discharge streams and suggested a route for integrating aerobic downstream waste to anaerobic fermentation systems, subsequently eliminating a greywater footprint of 5233.04 g/L and opening a prospect for an industrial symbiosis system. The findings highlighted the potential of these systems in process integration for fermentation-based process chains to achieve circularity and resource efficiency in production.},
}

@article {pmid40245726,
year = {2025},
author = {Amir, N and Hussin, F and Aroua, MK and Gozan, M},
title = {Sustainable valorization of seaweed industrial by-product: Converting filter cake into valuable resources.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {382},
number = {},
pages = {125342},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125342},
pmid = {40245726},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Filter cake, a significant by-product of the seaweed industry, poses environmental risks by releasing harmful elements that can contaminate air, soil, and water. Despite its potential, the valorization of this by-product remains underexplored. Therefore, this study developed a novel pathway to valorize filter cake into valuable resources. The by-product was initially processed using practical methods, including drying, grinding, and sieving. Drying kinetics were thoroughly analyzed and compared with 24 thin-layer drying models. Subsequently, the by-product was characterized using TGA, FTIR, EDX, and SEM before calculating the associated costs and carbon dioxide emissions of valorization. Optimal valorization required two days of open sun drying, grinding, and sieving, followed by 150 min in a fluidized bed dryer. The modified Midili-Kucuk equation provided the best fit for the drying process. Valorization cost was estimated at US$ 0.651 per kg, with carbon dioxide emissions of 0.648 kg per kg. The characterization data revealed that the valorized by-product contains organic and inorganic materials, underscoring its potential as a valuable resource, specifically as a recycled aid filter, silica source, and growing medium. However, further studies are required to assess its potential. Ultimately, this research contributes to green manufacturing and chemistry by employing sustainable methods that minimize environmental impact. It also promotes sustainability, reduces costs through by-product reuse, and encourages responsible consumption and production, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 12, 9, and 15.},
}

@article {pmid40244681,
year = {2025},
author = {Maxwell, MWH and Causier, BE and Chippendale, J and Ault, JR and Bell, CA},
title = {Diet-regulated transcriptional plasticity of plant parasites in plant-mutualist environments.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {122},
number = {16},
pages = {e2421367122},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2421367122},
pmid = {40244681},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {BB/X009823/1//UKRI | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)/ ; BB/T001194/1//UKRI | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Symbiosis ; *Host-Parasite Interactions/genetics ; *Mycorrhizae/physiology ; Plant Roots/parasitology/microbiology ; Transcription Factors/metabolism/genetics ; *Tylenchoidea/genetics/physiology ; Monosaccharide Transport Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Diet ; },
abstract = {Crop pathogens often lack exclusive access to their host and must interact with plants concurrently engaged with numerous other symbionts. Here, we demonstrate that the colonization of hosts by plant-mutualistic mycorrhizal fungi can indirectly induce transcriptional responses of a major plant parasite, the nematode Globodera pallida, via a modified host resource profile. A shift in the resource profile of the root, where the parasite feeds, is perceived and responded to by the parasite through transcriptional changes, potentially to optimize resource intake. Specifically, G. pallida react to reduced host-photosynthate influx due to concurrent mycorrhizal-host symbiosis by upregulating the expression of a sugar transporter (SWEET3) in the nematode intestine. We identify this gene's role in parasite growth and development, regulated by the putative diet-responsive transcription factor Gp-HBL1. Overall, our data unveil a mechanism by which a parasitic animal responds to fluctuations in host plant quality that is induced by a plant-mutualistic fungus, to enhance parasitism and reproduction.},
}

Animals
*Symbiosis
*Host-Parasite Interactions/genetics
*Mycorrhizae/physiology
Plant Roots/parasitology/microbiology
Transcription Factors/metabolism/genetics
*Tylenchoidea/genetics/physiology
Monosaccharide Transport Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Diet

@article {pmid40244242,
year = {2025},
author = {Schenone, A and Massucco, S and Schenone, C and Venturi, CB and Nozza, P and Prada, V and Pomili, T and Di Patrizi, I and Capodivento, G and Nobbio, L and Grandis, M},
title = {Basic Pathological Mechanisms in Peripheral Nerve Diseases.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40244242},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {PE0000006 DN. 1553 11.10.2022//Ministry of University and Research (MUR)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/pathology/metabolism ; Animals ; Schwann Cells/pathology/metabolism ; Axons/pathology/metabolism ; Myelin Sheath/pathology/metabolism ; Demyelinating Diseases/pathology/metabolism ; Signal Transduction ; Wallerian Degeneration/pathology ; },
abstract = {Pathological changes and the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying axonopathy and myelinopathy are key to understanding a wide range of inherited and acquired peripheral nerve disorders. While the clinical indications for nerve biopsy have diminished over time, its diagnostic value remains significant in select conditions, offering a unique window into the pathophysiological processes of peripheral neuropathies. Evidence highlights the symbiotic relationship between axons and myelinating Schwann cells, wherein disruptions in axo-glial interactions contribute to neuropathogenesis. This review synthesizes recent insights into the pathological and molecular underpinnings of axonopathy and myelinopathy. Axonopathy encompasses Wallerian degeneration, axonal atrophy, and dystrophy. Although extensively studied in traumatic nerve injury, the mechanisms of axonal degeneration and Schwann cell-mediated repair are increasingly recognized as pivotal in non-traumatic disorders, including dying-back neuropathies. We briefly outline key transcription factors, signaling pathways, and epigenetic changes driving axonal regeneration. For myelinopathy, we discuss primary segmental demyelination and dysmyelination, characterized by defective myelin development. We describe paranodal demyelination in light of recent findings in nodopathies, emphasizing that it is not an exclusive indicator of demyelinating disorders. This comprehensive review provides a framework to enhance our understanding of peripheral nerve pathology and its implications for developing targeted therapies.},
}

Humans
*Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/pathology/metabolism
Animals
Schwann Cells/pathology/metabolism
Axons/pathology/metabolism
Myelin Sheath/pathology/metabolism
Demyelinating Diseases/pathology/metabolism
Signal Transduction
Wallerian Degeneration/pathology

@article {pmid40243922,
year = {2025},
author = {Tian, H and Lu, J and Liang, F and Ding, H and Xiao, C},
title = {Unassuming Lichens: Nature's Hidden Antimicrobial Warriors.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40243922},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {202401AT070076//Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects/ ; },
mesh = {*Lichens/chemistry/metabolism ; *Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Humans ; Candida albicans/drug effects ; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Benzofurans ; },
abstract = {In a hidden corner of the Earth, an ongoing war is being waged: a battle between lichens and microorganisms. Lichens, ancient and unique symbiotic organisms, with their unique survival wisdom, are bursting with vitality in extreme environments. Over 80% of secondary metabolites in lichens are not found in other organisms, making lichen-derived compounds a promising resource for the development of new drugs, particularly against drug-resistant microorganisms, due to their distinctive chemical structures and biological activities. This article aims to explore in depth the lichen species exhibiting antimicrobial activity and their antimicrobial metabolites and focus on unique compounds such as divaricatic acid, usnic acid, vulpinic acid, salazinic acid, and rhizocarpic acid, which demonstrate significant antimicrobial effects against various resistant microorganisms, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and Candida albicans and other drug-resistant microorganisms. Meanwhile, this paper discusses the potential applications and challenges associated with the use of lichens in medicine, agriculture, and food industry, aiming to elucidate these mysterious organisms for lichen researchers and enthusiasts while promoting further research and applications in the field of antimicrobials.},
}

*Lichens/chemistry/metabolism
*Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Humans
Candida albicans/drug effects
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Benzofurans

@article {pmid40243584,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhao, X and Mai, C and Xia, L and Jia, G and Li, X and Lu, Y and Li, Z and Yang, H and Wang, L},
title = {Molecular Insights into the Positive Role of Soybean Nodulation by GmWRKY17.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40243584},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {32241046, 32472158//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2025xczx03//Shanxi Breeding Innovation Joint research and development projects/ ; 2023ZD040350103//Scientific and Technological Innovation 2030-Major Projects/ ; 202204051001020//Science and Technology Innovation Young Talent Team of Shanxi Province/ ; 2021xG003, 2022xG0014//Scientific research fund for talents of Shanxi Agricultural University/ ; },
mesh = {*Glycine max/genetics/microbiology/metabolism ; *Plant Root Nodulation/genetics ; *Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Root Nodules, Plant/genetics/metabolism/microbiology ; CRISPR-Cas Systems ; Symbiosis ; *Transcription Factors/genetics/metabolism ; Cytokinins/metabolism ; Plants, Genetically Modified ; Abscisic Acid/metabolism ; RNA Interference ; Nitrogen Fixation ; },
abstract = {Soybean is an important economic oilseed crop, being rich in protein and plant oil, it is widely cultivated around the world. Soybeans have been shown to establish a symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) with their compatible rhizobia, resulting in the formation of nodules. Previous studies have demonstrated the critical roles of phytohormones, such as abscisic acid and cytokinin, in the process of legume nodulation. The present study investigated the role of GmWRKY17, a homolog of Rosa hybrida (Rh)WRKY13 in regulating plant immunity through cytokinin content and abscisic acid signaling in soybean nodulation. Utilizing real-time PCR and histochemical staining, we demonstrated that GmWRKY17 is predominantly expressed in soybean root nodules. Subsequently, we analyzed the function of GmWRKY17-overexpression, RNA interference (RNAi), and the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Overexpression of GmWRKY17 significantly increases soybean nodule number, while RNAi or CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of GmWRKY17 resulted in a dramatic repression of nodule formation in soybeans. These results highlight that GmWRKY17 functions as a positive regulator involved in soybean nodulation. Furthermore, manipulation of GmWRKY17 expression impacts the expression of genes associated with the nod factor (NF) signaling pathway, thereby influencing soybean nodulation. This study demonstrated that WRKY-type transcription factors are involved in the regulation of legume nodulation, offering new light on the molecular basis of the symbiotic interaction between legumes and rhizobia.},
}

*Glycine max/genetics/microbiology/metabolism
*Plant Root Nodulation/genetics
*Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Root Nodules, Plant/genetics/metabolism/microbiology
CRISPR-Cas Systems
Symbiosis
*Transcription Factors/genetics/metabolism
Cytokinins/metabolism
Plants, Genetically Modified
Abscisic Acid/metabolism
RNA Interference
Nitrogen Fixation

@article {pmid40243374,
year = {2025},
author = {Kustra, MC and Carrier, TJ},
title = {Microbes as manipulators of egg size and developmental evolution.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0365524},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.03655-24},
pmid = {40243374},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Marine invertebrates mainly reproduce by energy-poor eggs that develop into feeding larvae or energy-rich eggs that develop into non-feeding larvae. Evolutionary transitions between these developmental modes have been studied in detail, yet the evolutionary factor(s) responsible for these switches remains elusive. Here, we use theoretical models to support the premise that microbes with the capacity to manipulate host reproduction may be one possible factor. Our model predicts that microbial manipulators could create a sperm-limited environment that selects for larger eggs by shifting the host's sex ratio toward female dominance and, as a result, drive an evolutionary transition in the developmental mode for marine invertebrates. The loss of a microbial manipulator could then recover the ancestral egg size and developmental mode. We also suggest more than a dozen genera of marine invertebrates from throughout the world's oceans that fit the framework of a microbe-induced evolutionary transition between these predominant developmental modes. We anticipate that microbial manipulators have a yet-to-be-appreciated influence on the developmental evolution of marine invertebrates. We find it paramount to understand whether evolutionary transitions in developmental mode occur with and without microbial manipulators as well as whether the underlying mechanisms of these manipulations are convergent with terrestrial systems.

IMPORTANCE: Microbes that manipulate animal reproduction are widespread on land, and their evolutionary influence is widely acknowledged. Relatives of these manipulators are increasingly found in the ocean, but uniquely with taxa that recently underwent a transition in developmental evolution from feeding to non-feeding larvae. Here, we present theoretical models supporting that microbial manipulators could create a sperm-limited environment that selects for larger eggs by shifting the host's sex ratio toward female dominance and, as a result, drive an evolutionary transition in the developmental mode for free-spawning marine invertebrates. This theoretical model provides a complementary viewpoint to the theory regarding the evolutionary process that marine invertebrates undergo to transition between developmental modes as well as a fruitful opportunity to compare with terrestrial systems.},
}

@article {pmid40243333,
year = {2025},
author = {Gaddy, KE and Septer, AN and Mruk, K and Milton, ME},
title = {A mutualistic model bacterium is lethal to non-symbiotic hosts via the type VI secretion system.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0015725},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.00157-25},
pmid = {40243333},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {What makes a bacterium pathogenic? Since the early days of germ theory, researchers have categorized bacteria as pathogens or non-pathogens, those that cause harm and those that do not, but this binary view is not always accurate. Vibrio fischeri is an exclusive mutualistic symbiont found within the light organs of Hawaiian bobtail squid. This symbiotic interaction requires V. fischeri to utilize a range of behaviors and produce molecules that are often associated with pathogenicity. This juxtaposition of employing "pathogenic" behaviors for a symbiotic relationship led the field to focus on how V. fischeri establishes a beneficial association with its host. In this study, we observe that V. fischeri induces mortality in zebrafish embryos and Artemia nauplii. Non-lethal doses of V. fischeri lead to zebrafish growth delays and phenotypes indicative of disease. Our data also provide evidence that the conserved type VI secretion system on chromosome I (T6SS1) plays a role in the V. fischeri-induced mortality of zebrafish embryos and Artemia nauplii. These results support the hypothesis that the V. fischeri T6SS1 is involved in eukaryotic cell interactions. Despite its traditional view as a beneficial symbiont, we provide evidence that V. fischeri is capable of harming aquatic organisms, indicating its potential to be pathogenic toward non-symbiotic hosts.IMPORTANCEVibrio fischeri is best known for its beneficial partnership with the Hawaiian bobtail squid, where it uses molecular tools often associated with disease-causing bacteria. Our research shows that V. fischeri can also cause harm, killing zebrafish embryos and brine shrimp larvae. We pinpoint one of V. fischeri's two type VI secretion systems (T6SS1) as a key factor in this pathogenicity. These findings reveal that V. fischeri is not strictly a mutualistic microbe but can act like a pathogen under certain conditions. This broadens our understanding of how V. fischeri could interact with different hosts and offers new insights into the dual roles bacteria can play in nature.},
}

@article {pmid40242515,
year = {2025},
author = {Xu, J and Chen, N and Li, Z and Liu, Y},
title = {Gut microbiome and liver diseases.},
journal = {Fundamental research},
volume = {5},
number = {2},
pages = {890-901},
pmid = {40242515},
issn = {2667-3258},
abstract = {Symbiotic microbiota plays a crucial role in the education, development, and maintenance of the host immune system, significantly contributing to overall health. Through the gut-liver axis, the gut microbiota and liver have a bidirectional relationship that is becoming increasingly evident as more research highlights the translocation of the gut microbiota and its metabolites. The focus of this narrative review is to examine and discuss the importance of the gut-liver axis and the enterohepatic barrier in maintaining overall health. Additionally, we emphasize the crucial role of the gut microbiome in liver diseases and explore potential therapeutic strategies for liver diseases by manipulating the microbiota.},
}

@article {pmid40241821,
year = {2025},
author = {Terra, LA and Klepa, MS and Nogueira, MA and Hungria, M},
title = {Pangenome analysis indicates evolutionary origins and genetic diversity: emphasis on the role of nodulation in symbiotic Bradyrhizobium.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1539151},
pmid = {40241821},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {The Bradyrhizobium genus is widely known for encompassing many species capable of forming nodules and establishing the biological nitrogen fixation process with several legumes, significantly contributing to agriculture and environmental sustainability. Despite its importance, questions about the evolution, pangenome, and symbiotic genes of Bradyrhizobium are still poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed the pangenome of a set of Bradyrhizobium symbiotic species using the Roary and GET_HOMOLOGUES tools in strains originated from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. We also investigated the presence and correlation of the fix, nif, nod, Type III secretion system (T3SS) and their effector proteins, and T4SS genes, trying to find differences between clades, hosts, and biogeographic origin. Pangenome analysis of Bradyrhizobium species from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres provided valuable insights into their diversity, biogeography, origin, and co-evolution with their legume host plants. The genus possesses a relatively small core genome compared to the expanded accessory genome, a key feature that facilitates genetic exchange and acquisition of new genes, allowing adaptation to a variety of environments. Notably, the presence or absence of T3SS effector proteins varied significantly according to the geographic location, suggesting specific environmental adaptations, as well as a direct relationship with nodulation genes. Comparative analysis indicated that symbiotic Bradyrhizobium species originated in the Northern Hemisphere and present a greater diversity of orthologous groups than those from the Southern Hemisphere. These results contribute to our understanding of the evolutionary history of these symbiotic bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid40241336,
year = {2025},
author = {Mesquita, A and Cerqueira, D and Rocha, M and Silva, D and Martins, C and Souza, B},
title = {A Review on Rare and Symbiotic Actinobacteria: Emerging Biotechnological Tools Against Antimicrobial Resistance.},
journal = {Journal of basic microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70036},
doi = {10.1002/jobm.70036},
pmid = {40241336},
issn = {1521-4028},
support = {PNE-0112-00069.01.00/16//Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; PS1-0186-00170.01.00/21//Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; },
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global threat to public health, with projections estimating 10 million deaths annually by 2050 if current trends persist. Actinobacteria, renowned for their biosynthetic capacity, are a key source of bioactive compounds, producing over 75% of known antibiotics. The adaptability of these microorganisms allows them to thrive in diverse habitats, including extreme ones, through the production of secondary metabolites that are of paramount importance for industry. Furthermore, actinobacteria are capable of living in symbiosis with several organisms, producing metabolites to protect and promote the growth of the host in exchange for nutrients and shelter. Some of these metabolites, such as antibiotics, play a key role in combating host pathogens and can be biotechnologically exploited to combat human resistant pathogens. This review presents the origins of AMR, the unique biology of actinobacteria, as well as their diverse biosynthetic pathways and their role in mitigating the AMR crisis. It also highlights the need for innovative biotechnological strategies for the isolation of rare and understudied actinobacteria, as symbiotic actinobacteria, to avoid rediscovery of molecules while finding new potential natural products and scaffolds for synthetic drugs. By providing a better understanding of their ecological, genomic, and metabolic diversity, this review provides valuable insights into the exploration of rare and symbiotic actinobacteria for developing antimicrobial solutions.},
}

@article {pmid40241175,
year = {2025},
author = {Malassigné, S and Laÿs, M and Vallon, L and Martin, E and Meiffren, G and Vigneron, A and Tran Van, V and Minard, G and Valiente Moro, C and Luis, P},
title = {Environmental yeasts differentially impact the development and oviposition behavior of the Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus.},
journal = {Microbiome},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {99},
pmid = {40241175},
issn = {2049-2618},
mesh = {Animals ; *Oviposition ; *Aedes/microbiology/growth & development/physiology ; Female ; Larva/microbiology/growth & development ; *Yeasts/classification/physiology/metabolism ; Riboflavin/metabolism ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: While the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), a known vector of many arboviruses, establishes symbiotic associations with environmentally acquired yeasts, their impact on mosquito biology remains poorly investigated. To better understand these associations, we hypothesized that waterborne yeasts colonizing the larval gut differentially support mosquito development based on their capacity to produce riboflavin or recycle nitrogen waste into proteins by secreting uricase, as B vitamins and amino acids are crucial for mosquito development. To address this hypothesis, we used axenic and gnotobiotic insects to gauge the specific impact of different environmental yeasts on Ae. albopictus development and survival. We then evaluated whether the observed variations across yeast species could be linked to differential uricolytic activities and varying quantities of riboflavin and proteins in insecta. Finally, given that mosquito oviposition site selection favors conditions that enhance offspring performance, we tested whether yeasts that promote faster development mediate oviposition site selection by gravid females.

RESULTS: Differences in mosquito development times were observed based on the environmental yeast used. Yeasts like Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and Aureobasidium pullulans promoted rapid development and were associated with improved survival. Conversely, yeasts such as Torulaspora delbrueckii and Martiniozyma asiatica, which led to slower development, produced smaller adults. Notably, R. mucilaginosa, which promoted the fastest development, provided high riboflavin intakes and enhance nitrogenous waste recycling and protein synthesis through strong uricolytic-ureolytic activity. Behavioral experiments indicated that yeasts promoting rapid development "attract gravid females.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight that a set of environmental yeasts present in natural larval breeding sites can be associated with improved mosquito development and survival by enhancing nutritional intake, thereby attracting gravid females. Variations in mosquito development time are likely linked to the differential levels of riboflavin production and nitrogenous waste recycling capacities among yeast species. This study opens new perspectives on the trophic interactions between mosquitoes and their mycobiota, emphasizing the importance of nitrogen-containing molecules such as essential amino acids, proteins, or vitamins provided by the mycobiota. Video Abstract.},
}

Animals
*Oviposition
*Aedes/microbiology/growth & development/physiology
Female
Larva/microbiology/growth & development
*Yeasts/classification/physiology/metabolism
Riboflavin/metabolism

@article {pmid40241074,
year = {2025},
author = {Xiao, G and Wang, X and Xu, Z and Liu, Y and Jing, J},
title = {Lung-specific metastasis: the coevolution of tumor cells and lung microenvironment.},
journal = {Molecular cancer},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {118},
pmid = {40241074},
issn = {1476-4598},
support = {82404672//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023M742486//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Tumor Microenvironment ; *Lung Neoplasms/pathology/secondary/metabolism ; Animals ; Neoplasm Metastasis ; },
abstract = {The vast majority of cancer-related deaths are attributed to metastasis. The lung, being a common site for cancer metastasis, is highly prone to being a target for multiple cancer types and causes a heavy disease burden. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that tumor metastasis necessitates continuous interactions between tumor cells and distant metastatic niches. Nevertheless, a comprehensive elucidation of the underlying mechanisms governing lung-specific metastasis still poses a formidable challenge. In this review, we depict the lung susceptibility and the molecular profiles of tumors with the potential for lung metastasis. Under the conceptual framework of "Reciprocal Tumor-Lung Metastatic Symbiosis" (RTLMS), we mechanistically delineate the bidirectional regulatory dynamics and coevolutionary adaptation between tumor cells and distal pulmonary niches during lung-specific metastasis, including the induction of pre-metastatic-niches, positive responses of the lung, tumor colonization, dormancy, and reawakening. An enhanced understanding of the latest mechanisms is essential for developing targeted strategies to counteract lung-specific metastasis.},
}

Humans
*Tumor Microenvironment
*Lung Neoplasms/pathology/secondary/metabolism
Animals
Neoplasm Metastasis

@article {pmid40241006,
year = {2025},
author = {Czerwinski, A and Löwenstrom, J and Franzenburg, S and Groth, EE and Obeng, N and Schulenburg, H},
title = {PelD is required downstream of c-di-GMP for host specialization of Pseudomonas lurida.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {220},
pmid = {40241006},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Caenorhabditis elegans/microbiology ; *Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism ; Animals ; *Pseudomonas/genetics/physiology/metabolism ; Biofilms/growth & development ; Symbiosis ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Multigene Family ; Gene Expression Profiling ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The bacterial second messenger c-di-GMP is known to influence the formation of biofilms and thereby persistence of pathogenic and beneficial bacteria in hosts. A previous evolution experiment with Pseudomonas lurida MYb11, occasional symbiont of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, led to the emergence of host-specialized variants with elevated intracellular c-di-GMP. Thus far, the molecular underpinnings of c-di-GMP-mediated host specialization were unknown in this symbiosis. Therefore, the current study aimed at identifying candidate molecular processes by combining transcriptomic and functional genetic analyses.

RESULTS: We found that MYb11 host specialists differentially expressed genes related to attachment, motility and biofilm production, including pelD from the pel gene cluster. pelD deletion resulted in reduced intra-host competitive fitness, lower bacterial numbers in C. elegans and loss of biofilm biomass.

CONCLUSION: Our results identify pelD as a previously unknown key modulator of beneficial symbiont-host associations that acts downstream of c-di-GMP.},
}

*Caenorhabditis elegans/microbiology
*Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism
Animals
*Pseudomonas/genetics/physiology/metabolism
Biofilms/growth & development
Symbiosis
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Multigene Family
Gene Expression Profiling

@article {pmid40237471,
year = {2025},
author = {Njogu, AK and Logozzo, F and Conner, WR and Shropshire, JD},
title = {Counting rare Wolbachia endosymbionts using digital droplet PCR.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0326624},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.03266-24},
pmid = {40237471},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Wolbachia is the most widespread animal-associated intracellular microbe, living within the cells of over half of insect species. Since they can suppress pathogen replication and spread rapidly through insect populations, Wolbachia is at the vanguard of public health initiatives to control mosquito-borne diseases. Wolbachia's abilities to block pathogens and spread quickly are closely linked to their abundance in host tissues. The most common method for counting Wolbachia is quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), yet qPCR can be insufficient to count rare Wolbachia, necessitating tissue pooling and consequently compromising individual-level resolution of Wolbachia dynamics. Digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) offers superior sensitivity, enabling the detection of rare targets and eliminating the need for sample pooling. Here, we report three ddPCR assays to measure total Wolbachia abundance, Wolbachia abundance adjusted for DNA extraction efficiency, and Wolbachia density relative to host genome copies. Using Drosophila melanogaster with wMel Wolbachia as a model, we show these ddPCR assays can reliably detect as few as 7 to 12 Wolbachia gene copies in a 20 µL reaction. The designed oligos are homologous to sequences from at least 106 Wolbachia strains across supergroup A and 53 host species from the Drosophila, Scaptomyza, and Zaprionus genera, suggesting broad utility. These highly sensitive ddPCR assays are expected to significantly advance Wolbachia-host interactions research by enabling the collection of molecular data from individual insect tissues. Their ability to detect rare Wolbachia will be especially valuable in applied and natural field settings where pooling samples could obscure important variation.IMPORTANCEWolbachia bacteria live inside the cells of many animals, especially insects. In many insect species, almost every individual carries Wolbachia. How common Wolbachia becomes within a population often depends on how much of it is present in the insect's body. Therefore, accurately measuring Wolbachia levels is crucial for understanding how these bacteria interact with their hosts and spread. However, traditional molecular assays can lack the sensitivity needed for accurate, individual-level quantification of rare Wolbachia. Here, we present three highly sensitive digital droplet PCR assays for Wolbachia detection, offering superior sensitivity compared to existing methods. These assays will be useful for studies that measure Wolbachia abundance and related phenotypes in individual insects, providing enhanced resolution and improving efforts to characterize the mechanisms that govern phenotypic variation.},
}

@article {pmid40236481,
year = {2025},
author = {Alimu, A and Gao, Y and Liu, J and Lu, Y},
title = {Geographic factors influence communities of symbiotic bacterial communities in Aphis gossypii across China's major cotton regions.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1569543},
pmid = {40236481},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Aphids are often infected with diverse bacterial symbionts that enhance their ecological adaptation. While geographic factors significantly influence aphid bacterial communities, research on environmental effects on the cotton aphid Aphis gossypii Glover feeding on cotton plants across China's major cotton-growing regions is limited.

METHODS: This study examined the influence of geographic factors on the endosymbiotic bacterial community and diversity of A. gossypii by analyzing 58 field samples from 24 locations across China's major cotton-growing regions (2021-2022) using 16S rRNA (V3-V4) high-throughput sequencing.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Our results demonstrate that geography is an important factor in shaping the endosymbiotic bacterial composition and diversity of A. gossypii. Among China's three major cotton-growing regions, the Yangtze River Basin exhibited the highest bacterial diversity, followed by the Northwestern Inland Region, and then the Yellow River Basin. Acinetobacter, Lactobacillus, Serratia, and Aeromonas were more abundant in the Yangtze River Basin, with positive correlations observed for Acinetobacter, Serratia, and Aeromonas in relation to annual precipitation. In contrast, Candidatus Uzinura, dominant in southern Xinjiang, displayed negative correlations with precipitation and longitude but a positive correlation with altitude, and this report is the first detection of it in A. gossypii. Buchnera was ubiquitous and negatively associated with both precipitation and temperature, while Arsenophonus showed no significant environmental correlations. These findings highlight the distinct influences of geographic factors on A. gossypii endosymbiotic communities across China's major cotton-growing regions, broadening our understanding of aphid-endosymbiont-environment interactions and offering potential avenues for biocontrol strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40235960,
year = {2025},
author = {Basgaran, A and Lymberopoulos, E and Burchill, E and Reis-Dehabadi, M and Sharma, N},
title = {Machine learning determines the incidence of Alzheimer's disease based on population gut microbiome profile.},
journal = {Brain communications},
volume = {7},
number = {2},
pages = {fcaf059},
pmid = {40235960},
issn = {2632-1297},
abstract = {The human microbiome is a complex and dynamic community of microbes, thought to have symbiotic benefit to its host. Influences of the gut microbiome on brain microglia have been identified as a potential mechanism contributing to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, motor neurone disease and Parkinson's disease (Boddy SL, Giovannelli I, Sassani M, et al. The gut microbiome: A key player in the complexity of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). BMC Med. 2021;19(1):13). We hypothesize that population level differences in the gut microbiome will predict the incidence of Alzheimer's disease using machine learning methods. Cross-sectional analyses were performed in R, using two large, open-access microbiome datasets (n = 959 and n = 2012). Countries in these datasets were grouped based on Alzheimer's disease incidence and the gut microbiome profiles compared. In countries with a high incidence of Alzheimer's disease, there is a significantly lower diversity of the gut microbiome (P < 0.05). A permutational analysis of variance test (P < 0.05) revealed significant differences in the microbiome profile between countries with high versus low incidence of Alzheimer's disease with several contributing taxa identified: at a species level Escherichia coli, and at a genus level Haemophilus and Akkermansia were found to be reproducibly protective in both datasets. Additionally, using machine learning, we were able to predict the incidence of Alzheimer's disease within a country based on the microbiome profile (mean area under the curve 0.889 and 0.927). We conclude that differences in the microbiome can predict the varying incidence of Alzheimer's disease between countries. Our results support a key role of the gut microbiome in neurodegeneration at a population level.},
}

@article {pmid40235917,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, Y and Wang, Z and Sun, X and He, X and Zhang, Y},
title = {Specific soil factors drive the differed stochastic assembly of rhizosphere and root endosphere fungal communities in pear trees across different habitats.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1549173},
pmid = {40235917},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Pyrus betulifolia is tolerant to diverse environmental conditions and is commonly planted in infertile habitats (such as beaches and ridges) to conserve arable land for cereal crops. Symbiotic fungi in the rhizosphere and root endosphere benefit host plants by enhancing their resilience to nutritional deficiencies under stressful conditions. However, the mechanisms underlying the assembly of these symbiotic fungal communities in the roots of P. betulifolia across different habitats remain poorly understood.

METHODS: Pyrus betulifolia of 30-year-old were selected from five sites in northern China to investigate the assembly of fungal communities in the rhizosphere and root endosphere. Soil samples were collected to assess the heterogeneity of the environment surrounding each plant. Procrustes analysis, variance partitioning analysis, and ordination regression analysis were employed to explore the ecological relationships between soil factors and fungal community composition.

RESULTS: The rhizosphere fungal community exhibited higher richness, greater diversity and lower structural variability compared to the root endosphere. Additionally, the rhizosphere supported a fungal network with higher abundance and stronger connectivity than the root endosphere. The composition of fungal communities varies significantly among different regions. In both the rhizosphere and root endosphere fungal communities, the number of genera specific to mountainous regions was larger than those in plain areas and saline-alkali areas. Null model-based analyses indicated that the assembly of rhizosphere and root endosphere fungal communities in P. betulifolia was mainly governed by stochastic processes. Specifically, in non-saline-alkali soils, the assembly of rhizosphere fungi was primarily driven by dispersal limitation, whereas the assembly of root endosphere fungi was dominated by ecological drift. In saline-alkali soils, both rhizosphere and root endosphere fungal communities were primarily influenced by ecological drift.

CONCLUSION: The assembly of root-associated fungal communities in P. betulifolia is not only driven by soil physicochemical properties but also influenced by root compartment niche and topography. Moreover, the impact intensity of the root compartment niche is greater than topography. Specifically, the assembly of the rhizosphere fungal community was primarily influenced by alkaline nitrogen (AN) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), while the root endosphere fungal community was more strongly affected by pH and sucrase (SUC). These findings could provide valuable insights for the design of beneficial root-associated microbiomes to enhance fruit tree performance.},
}

@article {pmid40235687,
year = {2025},
author = {},
title = {Correction to: Significant role of symbiotic bacteria in the blood digestion and reproduction of Dermanyssus gallinae mites.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {ycae166},
doi = {10.1093/ismeco/ycae166},
pmid = {40235687},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1093/ismeco/ycae127.].},
}

@article {pmid40235654,
year = {2025},
author = {Ellis, SL and Baird, ME and Harrison, LP and Schulz, KG and Harrison, DP},
title = {A photophysiological model of coral bleaching under light and temperature stress: experimental assessment.},
journal = {Conservation physiology},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {coaf020},
pmid = {40235654},
issn = {2051-1434},
abstract = {Marine heatwaves occurring against the backdrop of rising global sea surface temperatures have triggered mass coral bleaching and mortality. Irradiance is critical to coral growth but is also an implicating factor in photodamage, leading to the expulsion of symbiotic algae under increased temperatures. Numerical modelling is a valuable tool that can provide insight into the state of the symbiont photochemistry during coral bleaching events. However, very few numerical physiological models combine the influence of light and temperature for simulating coral bleaching. The coral bleaching model used was derived from the coral bleaching representation in the eReefs configuration of the CSIRO Environmental Modelling Suite, with the most significant change being the equation for the rate of detoxification of reactive oxygen species. Simulated physiological bleaching outcomes from the model were compared to photochemical bleaching proxies measured during an ex situ moderate degree-heating week (up to 4.4) experiment. The bleaching response of Acropora divaricata was assessed in an unshaded and 30% shade treatment. The model-simulated timing for the onset of bleaching under elevated temperatures closely corresponded with an initial photochemical decline as observed in the experiment. Increased bleaching severity under elevated temperature and unshaded light was also simulated by the model, an outcome confirmed in the experiment. This is the first experimental validation of a temperature-mediated, light-driven model of coral bleaching from the perspective of the symbiont. When forced by realistic environmental conditions, process-based mechanistic modelling could improve accuracy in predicting heterogeneous bleaching outcomes during contemporary marine heatwave events and future climate change scenarios. Mechanistic modelling will be invaluable in evaluating management interventions for deployment in coral reef environments.},
}

@article {pmid40235528,
year = {2025},
author = {Cameirão, C and Pereira, JA and Tavares, R and Lino-Neto, T and Baptista, P},
title = {Bacterial dynamics and exchange in plant-insect interactions.},
journal = {Current research in insect science},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {100110},
pmid = {40235528},
issn = {2666-5158},
abstract = {In nature, plants and insects engage in intricate interactions. Despite the increasing knowledge of the microbiomes of plants and insects, the extent to which they exchange and alter each other's microbiomes remains unclear. In this work, the bacterial community associated with nymphs of Philaenus spumarius (Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae), the stems of Coleostephus myconis where the nymphs were feeding, and the foam produced by the nymphs, were studied by culture-dependent and -independent approaches, with an attempt to elucidate the exchange of bacteria between plants and insects. The results suggest that both approaches complement each other, as many bacterial genera identified by metabarcoding were not detected by culturing, and vice versa. Overall, stems and foam exhibited higher bacterial diversity than nymphs, with all the samples showing enrichment in bacteria known to provide diverse benefits to their host. Stems and foam were the most similar in bacterial composition, but Burkholderiaceae and Moraxellaceae dominated the stems, whereas Rhizobiaceae and Sphingobacteriaceae dominated the foam. Nymphs exhibit the most distinct bacterial composition, yet more similar to that found in the stem compared to the foam. Indeed, nymphs were enriched on endosymbiotic bacteria, mostly Candidatus Sulcia and Sodalis, not found in the stem and foam. Nevertheless, during feeding, nymphs appeared to exchange several bacteria genera with C. myconis, with a significant number being incorporated into the bacteriome of the nymph. The genera Curvibacter, Cutibacterium, Methylobacterium, Pseudomonas and Rhizobium are likely the most exchanged. Nymphs also appear to exchange bacteria to the foam, notably species from the Enhydrobacter, Pseudomonas, Rhizobium and Roseomonas genera. More studies to infer the functions of the shared bacteria between P. spumarius-C. myconis are needed.},
}

@article {pmid40235299,
year = {2025},
author = {Andongma, AA and Whitten, MMA and Chofong, GN and Dyson, PJ},
title = {The thrips gut pH and implications for symbiont-mediated RNAi.},
journal = {Bulletin of entomological research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-7},
doi = {10.1017/S0007485325000240},
pmid = {40235299},
issn = {1475-2670},
abstract = {The gut pH plays crucial roles in diet preference, habitat choice, insect fitness, and insect-microbial relationships. It significantly impacts enzyme activity efficiency, as well as the internalisation and efficacy of pesticides. Without a comprehensive understanding of the gut environment, potential pest management strategies cannot be fully optimised.This study investigates the gut pH of the globally invasive pest insect Western flower thrips Frankliniella occidentalis, and the effect its Gram-negative symbiotic gut bacterium BFo2 has on pH modulation. Indicator dyes were fed to F. occidentalis and the gut pH was found to vary between 6 and 7. In general, the larval and adult guts appear to have a pH of between 6 and 6.5; however, the posterior gut of some adults appears to be closer to 7. This almost neutral pH offers a favourable environment for the neutrophilic symbiotic BFo2. The ability of BFo2 isolates to buffer pH towards neutral was also observed during in vitro culture using broths at different pH values.This paper also discusses the implications of this gut environment on dsRNAi delivery. By laying the foundation for understanding how gut pH can be leveraged to enhance current pest management strategies, this study particularly benefits research aimed at optimising the delivery of lethal dsRNA through symbiont-mediated RNAi to Western flower thrips in pest management programs.},
}

@article {pmid40233891,
year = {2025},
author = {Luo, Y and Lan, C and Ren, W and Wu, A and Yu, B and He, J and Chen, D},
title = {Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron: A symbiotic ally against diarrhea along with modulation of gut microbial networks via tryptophan metabolism and AHR-Nrf2 signaling.},
journal = {Journal of advanced research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jare.2025.04.016},
pmid = {40233891},
issn = {2090-1224},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Bacteroides is a crucial mucosal symbiotic bacterium in mammals, with Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron (B. thetaiotaomicron) being particularly noteworthy as a glyco-specialist due to its significant nutritional impact. However, B. thetaiotaomicron may affect host health, but related research is limited.

OBJECTIVES: Our main focus is to understand the patterns of microbial community changes and the molecular mechanisms mediated by microbial metabolites in the alleviation of piglet diarrhea by B. thetaiotaomicron.

METHODS: Cold stress was induced in piglets to trigger stress-induced diarrhea. The control group and B group were administered a blank medium and 1 × 10[8] CFU of B. thetaiotaomicron, respectively, on days 1, 3, and 5. The diarrhea rate and growth performance of the piglets were recorded during the experimental period. Based on 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, microbial network analysis, and metabolomics analysis, the composition and changes of the colonic microbiota and metabolites were analyzed. The antibacterial capacity and anti-inflammatory molecular mechanisms of B. thetaiotaomicron metabolites were analyzed through in vitro antibacterial assays and inflammatory cell models.

RESULTS: B. thetaiotaomicron alleviated diarrhea in piglets and improved their growth performance. It influenced the composition of the intestinal microbiota and microbial interactions, with metabolites primarily enriched in the tryptophan metabolism pathway, particularly indole and its derivatives, which were closely related to host phenotypes. In vitro co-culture experiments demonstrated that B. thetaiotaomicron metabolites inhibited the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Further in vitro experiments revealed that these metabolites, including indole, reinforced barrier function and reduced TNF-α-induced inflammation and apoptosis in Caco-2 cells, confirming the significance of the AHR-Nrf2 pathway in mediating these positive effects.

CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this study offers a theoretical framework for understanding the role of the symbiotic bacterium B. thetaiotaomicron in the gut microbiota ecosystem during diarrhea and its interactions with the host's intestinal tract.},
}

@article {pmid40233882,
year = {2025},
author = {Gao, J and Mang, Q and Li, Q and Sun, Y and Xu, G},
title = {Microbial-algal symbiotic system drives reconstruction of nitrogen, phosphorus, and methane cycles for purification of pollutants in aquaculture water.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {132531},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.132531},
pmid = {40233882},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Intensive aquaculture's excessive nitrogen, phosphorus, and methane emissions caused environmental degradation. This study explored how algae-bacteria symbiotic systems (ABSS) enhanced water purification by regulating element cycles. We established a Chlorella pyrenoidosa-Bacillus subtilis symbiotic system. At a 1:1 bacteria-to-algae ratio, chlorophyll a and cell dry weight were highest. C. pyrenoidosa supplied organic acids, carbohydrates, and amino acids to B. subtilis, which reciprocated with amino acids, purines, and vitamins. ABSS significantly reduced total nitrogen, ammonia nitrogen (NH4[+]-N), nitrite (NO2[-]-N), nitrate (NO3[-]-N), phosphate (PO4[3-]-P), total phosphorous, dissolved organic carbon, and chemical oxygen demand in aquaculture water. It reshaped microbial communities and enriched key genus (Limnohabitans, Planktophila, Polaromonas, Methylocystis) and upregulating genes linked to organic phosphate mineralization, methane oxidation, and nitrate reduction. These changes strengthened nitrogen-phosphorus-methane cycle coupling, boosting water purification. ABSS offers an eco-engineering solution for aquaculture pollution by optimizing microbial interactions and nutrient cycling.},
}

@article {pmid40233415,
year = {2025},
author = {Diamond, MJ},
title = {Toward Eradicating the Unbearable: The Dangerous Allure of Fascistic States of Mind.},
journal = {The Psychoanalytic quarterly},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-31},
doi = {10.1080/00332828.2025.2481955},
pmid = {40233415},
issn = {2167-4086},
abstract = {To understand fascistic group movements, it is necessary to understand the dynamics of fascistic states of mind within all of us. Following a note on the American polity, the author differentiates fascism from authoritarianism before reviewing the dynamics of fascistic states of mind, including the omnipotent longing for purity and its relationship to destructive narcissism. Considering the role of the death drive, the allure of the fascistic state is explored, based largely in the need to avoid primary terrors of annihilation. In addressing the movement of such states from the individual psyche to the larger group mind, the author examines the symbiotic fit between the leader and the group's unconscious fears and phantasies, as illustrated by perverse containment within the cult of Trumpism. Finally, in noting the inability of reason alone to contain destructive forces, he ponders how we might deal with fascistic states of mind most effectively in individuals, groups, and ourselves.},
}

@article {pmid40232938,
year = {2025},
author = {Nogueira, JCC and Boldori, JR and Santos Ribas, LP and Lunardi, AG and Aguiar, TA and Carriço, MRS and Roehrs, R and Denardin, CC},
title = {Toxicity and Antioxidant Activity of Black Tea Kombucha in Wistar Rats: A 28-Day Repeated Dose Oral Study.},
journal = {Chemistry & biodiversity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e202500046},
doi = {10.1002/cbdv.202500046},
pmid = {40232938},
issn = {1612-1880},
abstract = {Kombucha is a fermented beverage produced from sweetened black tea using a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts. While studies suggest potential health benefits, such as antioxidant activity, its toxicological profile must be thoroughly evaluated to ensure safe consumption. This study aimed to assess the subacute oral toxicity of kombucha over 28 days in Wistar rats and evaluate its effects on oxidative stress markers. Forty female Wistar rats were divided into four groups: a control group receiving saline (1 mL/100 g), and three treatment groups-T1 (1 mL/100 g) and T2 (2 mL/100 g) receiving kombucha fermented for 7 days, and T3 (1 mL/100 g) receiving kombucha fermented for 14 days. All treatments were administered daily for 28 days. No signs of toxicity, mortality, or histopathological changes in tissue morphology were observed. However, significant behavioral changes, including increased exploration and self-care, were noted. Additionally, kombucha administration modulated the activity of antioxidant enzymes, specifically superoxide dismutase and catalase, and reduced tissue lipid peroxidation. These findings suggest that kombucha fermented for 7 and 14 days is non-toxic and exhibits antioxidant properties by modulating oxidative stress markers in Wistar rats.},
}

@article {pmid40232537,
year = {2025},
author = {Guarnizo, ÁL and Marqués-Gálvez, JE and Arenas, F and Navarro-Ródenas, A and Morte, A},
title = {Morphological and molecular development of Terfezia claveryi ectendomycorrhizae exhibits three well-defined stages.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {35},
number = {2},
pages = {31},
pmid = {40232537},
issn = {1432-1890},
support = {PID2020-115210RB-I00//Agencia Estatal de Investigación/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/growth & development/genetics/physiology/cytology ; *Symbiosis ; *Ascomycota/growth & development/genetics/physiology ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; },
abstract = {The normal development of mycorrhizal symbiosis is a dynamic process, requiring elaborately regulated interactions between plant roots and compatible fungi, mandatory for both partners´ survival. In the present study, we further elucidated the mycorrhizal development of the desert truffles Terfezia claveryi with the host plant Helianthemum almeriense as an ectendomycorrhizal symbiosis model under greenhouse conditions. To investigate this, we evaluated the morphology of mycorrhizal colonization, concomitantly with the dynamic expression of selected marker genes (6 fungal and 11 plant genes) measured every week until mycorrhiza maturation (three months). We were able to determine 3 main stages in the mycorrhization process, 1) pre-symbiosis stage where mycelium is growing in the soil with no direct interaction with roots, 2) early symbiosis stage when the fungus spreads along the roots intercellularly and plant-fungal signaling is proceeding, and 3) late symbiosis stage where the fungus consolidates and matures with intracellular hyphal colonization; this is characterized by the regulation of cell-wall remodeling processes.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/growth & development/genetics/physiology/cytology
*Symbiosis
*Ascomycota/growth & development/genetics/physiology
Plant Roots/microbiology

@article {pmid40231847,
year = {2025},
author = {Kamp, DL and Kerwin, AH and McAnulty, SJ and Nyholm, SV},
title = {Organ structure and bacterial microbiogeography in a reproductive organ of the Hawaiian bobtail squid reveal dimensions of a defensive symbiosis.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0216324},
doi = {10.1128/aem.02163-24},
pmid = {40231847},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Many plants and animals house symbiotic microorganisms in specialized tissues or organs. Here, we used multidimensional in situ imaging techniques to illuminate how host organ structure and bacterial microbiogeography contribute to the symbiotic function of an organ in the Hawaiian bobtail squid, Euprymna scolopes. Along with the well-studied light organ, female E. scolopes harbor a community of bacteria in the accessory nidamental gland (ANG). The ANG is a dense network of epithelium-lined tubules, some of which are dominated by a single bacterial taxon. These bacteria are deposited into squid eggs, where they defend the developing embryos from harmful biofouling. This study used a combination of imaging techniques to visualize different dimensions of the ANG and its bacterial communities. Imaging entire organs with light sheet microscopy revealed that the ANG is a composite tissue of individual, non-intersecting tubules that each harbor their own bacterial population. The organ is bisected, with tubules converging toward two points at the posterior end. At these points, tubules empty into a space where bacteria can mix with squid jelly to be deposited onto eggs. Observations of the symbiotic community correlated bacterial taxa with cell morphology and revealed that tubule populations varied: some tubules contained populations of mixed taxa, whereas others contained only one bacterial genus. Together, these data shed light on how bacterial populations interact within the ANG and how the host uses physical structure to maintain and employ a symbiotic bacterial population in a defensive context.IMPORTANCESequence-based microbiome studies have revealed much about how hosts interact with communities of symbiotic microbiota but often lack a spatial understanding of how microbes relate to each other and the host in which they reside. This study uses a combination of microscopy techniques to reveal how the structure of a symbiotic organ in the female bobtail squid, Euprymna scolopes, houses diverse, beneficial bacterial populations and deploys them for egg defense. These findings suggest that spatial partitioning may be key to harboring a diverse population of antimicrobial-producing bacteria and establishing a foundation for further understanding how host structures mediate symbiotic interactions.},
}

@article {pmid40231754,
year = {2025},
author = {Poelmans, W and Beeckman, T and Lakehal, A},
title = {The multifaceted role of auxin in root growth and branching: Insights from non-seed vascular plants.},
journal = {Physiologia plantarum},
volume = {177},
number = {2},
pages = {e70210},
doi = {10.1111/ppl.70210},
pmid = {40231754},
issn = {1399-3054},
support = {101062418//HORIZON EUROPE Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions/ ; 11I3721N//Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO)/ ; G027313N//Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO)/ ; G028421N//Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO)/ ; },
mesh = {*Indoleacetic Acids/metabolism ; *Plant Roots/growth & development/metabolism/genetics ; *Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; },
abstract = {Plant root systems play a crucial role in taking up water and nutrients, as well as in facilitating symbiotic partnerships with microorganisms like rhizobia and mycorrhizae that enhance nutrient fixation and assimilation. Extensive research in seed plants has demonstrated the dominant role of the phytohormone auxin during root development in this group of vascular plants. Non-seed vascular plants (lycophytes, horsetails and ferns) occupy a key phylogenetic position as the sister group to seed plants, making them essential for understanding the evolution of roots. These lineages exhibit distinct root development and branching patterns, in which the hormone auxin might play a pivotal role. However, the molecular basis underlying its function during root development in these plant groups remains poorly understood. In this review, we summarize the current progress in our understanding of auxin-mediated root initiation, patterning, and branching in vascular non-seed plants while highlighting outstanding key questions. Despite limited research, the available evidence suggests that both conserved and lineage-specific auxin-dependent genetic circuits regulate root development in these species. While remaining relatively limited in lycophytes and ferns, seed plants have evolved extensive environmentally sensitive regulatory networks facilitating the adaptation of their branching strategies to perceived external cues. These networks likely emerged through the duplication and neofunctionalization of gene families involved in auxin transport and signalling, as well as their downstream factors, such as LBD and PLT genes.},
}

*Indoleacetic Acids/metabolism
*Plant Roots/growth & development/metabolism/genetics
*Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant

@article {pmid40231499,
year = {2025},
author = {Nasser, A and Jahanbakhshi, S},
title = {Interaction Between Staphylococcus aureus and Microbiota: Invasion or Commensalism.},
journal = {Current pharmaceutical biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/0113892010364717250404175242},
pmid = {40231499},
issn = {1873-4316},
abstract = {The term "Microbiota" refers to the vast array of symbiotic microorganisms that coexist with their hosts in practically all organs. However, the microbiota must obtain nutrition and minerals from its host to survive; instead, they produce beneficial compounds to protect the host and regulate the immune system. Conversely, pathogenic bacteria utilize their enzymes to independently gain sustenance through an invasive process without almost any beneficial compound production. One of the fully equipped pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus, is present in nearly every organ and possesses a variety of defense and invasion systems including an enzyme, a mineral collection system, a system for detecting environmental conditions, and broad toxins. The microbiota properly can defend its kingdom against S. aureus; however, if necessary, the host immune system is alerted against the pathogen, so this system also acts against the pathogen, a game that can ultimately lead to the death of the pathogen. However, S. aureus can change the host's conditions in its favor by changing the host's conditions and causing inflammation, a condition that cannot be tolerated by the microbiota. In this review, we will explain how microbiota defend against S. aureus.},
}

@article {pmid40230086,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhong, X and Hui, J and Zhang, H and Zeng, Q and Han, D and Tian, H},
title = {TaLAC129 is a negative regulator of arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis but enhanced the growth and yield of bread wheat.},
journal = {The Plant journal : for cell and molecular biology},
volume = {122},
number = {1},
pages = {e70136},
doi = {10.1111/tpj.70136},
pmid = {40230086},
issn = {1365-313X},
support = {2021YFD1900700//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2024T170732//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; 31972497//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024JC-YBQN-0235//Natural Science Basic Research Program of Shaanxi/ ; },
mesh = {*Triticum/genetics/growth & development/microbiology/metabolism ; *Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Symbiosis/genetics/physiology ; *Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism ; Phosphorus/metabolism ; *Laccase/genetics/metabolism ; Nitrogen/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis enhances nutrient acquisition and stress resilience in plants, yet the genetic mechanisms regulating this interaction in wheat remain poorly understood. This study explores the variation in AM colonization rates across a diverse set of wheat varieties and aims to identify key genes that regulate the wheat-AM symbiosis. Understanding these molecular mechanisms is crucial for improving nutrient uptake efficiency and stress resistance in wheat breeding programs. Here, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 291 wheat varieties and integrated transcriptomic data to identify TaLAC129, a laccase (LAC)-encoding gene, as a critical negative regulator of AM colonization in wheat roots. Overexpression of TaLAC129 significantly increased root LAC activity and lignin content, concurrently suppressing AM colonization. While this suppression reduced nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) uptake in stems, leaves, and glumes, it markedly enhanced nutrient utilization efficiency (NUE) in grains. Furthermore, TaLAC129 overexpression improved agronomic traits, including grains per panicle, 1000-grain weight, and overall yield. Our findings reveal the dual role of TaLAC129 in balancing AM symbiosis and nutrient allocation, offering a novel genetic target for breeding wheat varieties with improved yield and nutrient efficiency. This study provides critical insights into the molecular coordination between symbiotic trade-offs and agricultural productivity in cereal crops.},
}

*Triticum/genetics/growth & development/microbiology/metabolism
*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Symbiosis/genetics/physiology
*Plant Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Genome-Wide Association Study
Plant Roots/microbiology/metabolism
Phosphorus/metabolism
*Laccase/genetics/metabolism
Nitrogen/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant

@article {pmid40228808,
year = {2025},
author = {Jones, KR and Duong, T and Sacci, O and Gregory, CL and Belden, LK},
title = {Amphibian bacterial communities assemble variably among host species, across development, and between similar habitats.},
journal = {Integrative and comparative biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/icb/icaf014},
pmid = {40228808},
issn = {1557-7023},
abstract = {Symbiotic host-associated microbial communities are nearly ubiquitous and are often essential to host growth and development. The assembly of these communities on hosts is the result of a combination of the processes of selection, dispersal, and drift. For some species, essential symbionts are quickly acquired from the environment during embryonic development, while others may vertically acquire symbionts from parents. For amphibians with complex life cycles that undergo metamorphosis, an additional physiological transition from larval to adult forms may represent another distinct developmental window for bacterial colonization. Prior research has demonstrated that metamorphosis impacts the composition of amphibian-associated bacterial communities, however, we do not know whether similar shifts occur during metamorphosis across different amphibian species. To more clearly understand patterns in microbiome development across host species within a given area, we assessed the bacterial communities associated with eggs from five locally-occurring amphibian species and tadpoles and juveniles from four of the species. Additionally, to determine if stochasticity result in varied microbiome composition among conspecifics, we raised one species, spring peepers (Pseudacris crucifer), in outdoor 1000 L mesocosms. Through 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, we detected distinct bacterial communities across amphibian species and development. Additionally, we found that tadpoles harbored different communities of bacteria in the different mesocosms, suggesting that stochasticity may play a large role in bacterial assembly on tadpoles. Our results serve to deepen our understanding of natural shifts in amphibian-associated bacterial communities and how these shifts are host-species dependent. Additionally, this study provides support for the idea that stochasticity in the form of drift or priority effects can drive individual variation in microbiome composition among hosts.},
}

@article {pmid40228606,
year = {2025},
author = {Lee, J and McClure, S and Weichselbaum, RR and Mimee, M},
title = {Designing live bacterial therapeutics for cancer.},
journal = {Advanced drug delivery reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {115579},
doi = {10.1016/j.addr.2025.115579},
pmid = {40228606},
issn = {1872-8294},
abstract = {Humans are home to a diverse community of bacteria, many of which form symbiotic relationships with their host. Notably, tumors can also harbor their own unique bacterial populations that can influence tumor growth and progression. These bacteria, which selectively colonize hypoxic and acidic tumor microenvironments, present a novel therapeutic strategy to combat cancer. Advancements in synthetic biology enable us to safely and efficiently program therapeutic drugs production in bacteria, further enhancing their potential. This review provides a comprehensive guide to utilizing bacteria for cancer treatment. We discuss key considerations for selecting bacterial strains, emphasizing their colonization efficiency, the delicate balance between safety and anti-tumor efficacy, and the availability of tools for genetic engineering. We also delve into strategies for precise spatiotemporal control of drug delivery to minimize adverse effects and maximize therapeutic impact, exploring recent examples of engineered bacteria designed to combat tumors. Finally, we address the underlying challenges and future prospects of bacterial cancer therapy. This review underscores the versatility of bacterial therapies and outlines strategies to fully harness their potential in the fight against cancer.},
}

@article {pmid40228525,
year = {2025},
author = {Bruyant, P and Doré, J and Vallon, L and Moënne-Loccoz, Y and Almario, J},
title = {Needle in a Haystack: Culturing Plant-Beneficial Helotiales Lineages From Plant Roots.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {27},
number = {4},
pages = {e70082},
pmid = {40228525},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {//French Ministère de l'Enseignemnet Supérieur et la Recherche/ ; //AnaEE France (ANR-11-INBS- 0001 AnaEE-Services, Investissements d'Avenir frame/ ; //the French National program EC2CO (Ecosphère Continentale et Côtière)/ ; //Défi ISOTOP initiative (CNRS, MITI, France)/ ; ANR-22-CE02-0018//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; //Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique/ ; //Lautaret Garden - UAR 3370 (Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, 38000 Grenoble, France)/ ; },
mesh = {*Plant Roots/microbiology ; Phylogeny ; *Endophytes/isolation & purification/classification/genetics ; Soil Microbiology ; Mycorrhizae/isolation & purification/genetics ; *Brassicaceae/microbiology ; Caryophyllaceae/microbiology ; Symbiosis ; DNA, Fungal/genetics ; },
abstract = {Root-associated Helotiales fungi are increasingly recognised as beneficial fungal partners promoting plant growth under nutrient-limited conditions, particularly, in non-mycorrhizal hosts lacking the ancestral arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis. However, the ecology of these fungi is still cryptic as relatively few lineages have been successfully cultivated from roots for further study. Here, we attempted the mass isolation of root endophytic fungi to evaluate the recovery of known plant-beneficial Helotiales lineages using a tailored culture-based approach. We sampled six wild non-mycorrhizal species from the Brassicaceae, Caryophyllaceae, and Cyperaceae, growing in nutrient-limited alpine soils. We isolated 602 root endophytes and compared this culturable diversity with the one observed via fungal ITS2 metabarcoding. Metabarcoding revealed that Helotiales taxa dominated the fungal communities, with 43% of these detected taxa also represented in our collection. Accordingly, most root endophytes in our collection (53%) were Helotiales. These isolates, some with P solubilisation potential, belonged primarily to three Helotialean clades and were phylogenetically related to plant growth-promoting or mycorrhizal-like strains. This analysis highlights that the roots of alpine non-mycorrhizal plants harbour diverse plant-beneficial root-endophytic Helotiales, and the isolates obtained are a promising resource to explore the plant-beneficial mechanisms and ecological traits of these fungi.},
}

*Plant Roots/microbiology
Phylogeny
*Endophytes/isolation & purification/classification/genetics
Soil Microbiology
Mycorrhizae/isolation & purification/genetics
*Brassicaceae/microbiology
Caryophyllaceae/microbiology
Symbiosis
DNA, Fungal/genetics

@article {pmid40228454,
year = {2025},
author = {Asif, A and Koner, S and Hsu, PC and He, BJ and Paul, S and Hussain, B and Hsu, BM},
title = {Synergistic interactions between AMF and MHB communities in the rhizospheric microenvironment facilitated endemic hyperaccumulator plants growth thrive under heavy metal stress in ultramafic soil.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {492},
number = {},
pages = {138233},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.138233},
pmid = {40228454},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Ultramafic outcrop settings are characterized by long-term heavy metal (HM) stress and nutrient imbalances, making plant resilience highly challenging. This study investigated that how native plant types in the serpentine environment influence the variation of synergistic interactions between rhizosphere arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and mycorrhizal helper bacteria (MHB) communities under HM stress and nutrient-deficient conditions, which support native plant endemism and their HM accumulation potential. The results displayed significant enrichment of key MHB (Rhizobium_tropici, Bacillus_subtilis, Pseudomonas_parafulva, Pseudomonas_akapagensis) and AMF species (Glomus_constrictum, Glomus_aggregatum, Rhizophagus_intraradices, Rhizophagus_irregularis) in rhizosphere soils (q < 0.05). Pseudomonas_chlororaphis and Burkholderia_cepacia were strongly associated with Rhizophagus_irregularis and Glomus_mosseae in Panicum maximum Jacq (PMJ) and Bidens pilosa (BP) under chromium (Cr), and cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As) stress. Pseudomonas_fluorescens and Bacillus_pabuli were linked to Geosiphon_pyriformis and Glomus_aggregatum in Pueraria montana (PM) under nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and cobalt (Co) stress, while Arthrobacter_globiformis and Rhizobium_leguminosarum were associated with Glomus_intraradices under copper (Cu) stress in Leucaena leucocephala (LL). Pathways related to nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (NPK) cycling, HM detoxification, and resistance were enriched, with AMF predominantly symbiotrophic root-endophytic, except for one as lichenized nostoc endosymbiont. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) showed HM stress and nutrients influence MHB-AMF symbiosis, while pH moisture content (MC) and electric conductivity (EC) significantly regulate their distribution. Rhizobium_leguminosarum, Rhizobium_tropici, Nitrospira_japonica, and Rhizobium_cauense with Glomus_mosseae and Rhizophagus_irregularis drive NPK cycling in HM-stressed rhizosphere soils. This finding suggested that association between plants type and their functional rhizosphere microbiome promote an eco-friendly strategy for HM recovery from serpentine soil.},
}