@article {pmid41108337,
year = {2026},
author = {Muniz Silva, AC and Dias Rates, ER and Silva Diniz Filho, JFD and Dos Santos, CC and Noronha de Souza, PF and Mesquita, FP and Santos-Oliveira, R and Alencar, LMR},
title = {Melanoma Spotlight: New Perspectives Through Biophysical Markers.},
journal = {Cell biochemistry and biophysics},
volume = {84},
number = {1},
pages = {1177-1191},
doi = {10.1007/s12013-025-01933-w},
pmid = {41108337},
issn = {1559-0283},
abstract = {ABASTRACT: Melanoma is a highly aggressive skin cancer with significant metastatic potential. Recent studies highlight the pivotal role of fibroblasts within the melanoma microenvironment. Fibroblasts become activated in response to chronic lesions, such as melanoma, expressing molecules that sustain tumor growth and progression. The symbiotic interaction between fibroblast and tumor cells is complex and not fully elucidated. Despite its importance, few studies have directly compared the biophysical properties of fibroblasts and melanoma cells, particularly in the pulmonary context and in relation to tumor progression. Here, we combined Raman spectroscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) to investigate the vibrational signatures and morphometric parameters of MRC-5 pulmonary fibroblasts and two melanoma cell lines: SK-MEL-19 (less aggressive) and SK-MEL-103 (more aggressive). Raman spectra from melanoma cells exhibited increased intensities in bands associated with structural and signaling amino acids, indicative of extracellular matrix remodeling, cyto- and cytoskeletal reorganization, and apoptotic deregulation. SK-MEL-104 showed more pronounced proline and guanine peaks, consistent with its higher aggressiveness and known BRAF and NRAS mutations. AFM topography revealed marked crater-like features in nuclear and cytoplasmic regions, suggestive of cytoskeletal alterations. Measurements of relative surface area and nucleus-to-cytoplasm ratio confirmed the lower metabolic activity of MRC-5 fibroblasts compared with the high plasticity and metabolic activity of melanoma cells. These results provide structural and biochemical insights into melanoma adaptation and proliferation within lung tissue and underscore the complementary potential of Raman spectroscopy and AFM as powerful tools for characterization and prognosis in metastatic progression studies.},
}

@article {pmid41774382,
year = {2026},
author = {Chaudhry, A and Wang, T and Chio, C and Jeyakumar, DT and Rahman, MS and Jiang, ZH and Sun, S and Qin, W},
title = {Co-cultures of Microalgae and Other Microorganisms: Wastewater Treatment and Production of Value-Added Bioproducts.},
journal = {Applied biochemistry and biotechnology},
volume = {198},
number = {5},
pages = {3269-3302},
pmid = {41774382},
issn = {1559-0291},
support = {RGPIN-2017-05366//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; },
abstract = {Microbial interactions are crucial for a wide range of processes, including the production of high-quality food and beverages, environmental sustainability through nutrient cycling, waste valorization, bioremediation, and maintaining ecological balance across diverse ecosystems. In natural habitats, microorganisms exhibit competitive and symbiotic relationships, utilizing evolved mechanisms to protect substrates and defend habitats. The combined activity of microorganisms in co-cultures offers synergistic benefits compared to single-microorganism systems, particularly in wastewater treatment and bioproduct production. Microalgal-bacterial coculture processes have gained significant attention due to their high nutrient remediation efficiencies and low-cost wastewater treatment potential. Co-cultures of microalgae with bacteria, yeast, and fungi have shown promise not only in wastewater treatment but also in the production of valuable bioproducts such as biofuels, lactic acid, hydrogen, microbial fuel cells, antibiotics, bioethanol, and biopolymers. This review paper explores the potential of microalgae and other microorganisms in various biotechnological applications. This review highlights the importance of co-cultures in wastewater management, the production of value-added products, challenges faced in co-culture systems, and future research directions. Therefore, integrating microalgae with other microorganisms offers great promise for sustainable biotechnological applications, with the resilience of these systems being crucial for large-scale operations.},
}

@article {pmid41857737,
year = {2026},
author = {Lei, C and Wu, J and Fu, Z and Jin, R and Hu, B and Xu, K and Cheng, C and Shi, T and Gong, D and Huang, C and Qin, J},
title = {The microbiome of host saliva, gastric fluid, and gastric mucosa as accurate diagnostic tools for gastric cancer detection.},
journal = {Journal of translational medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12967-026-07953-1},
pmid = {41857737},
issn = {1479-5876},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Early non-invasive detection is crucial for improving the prognosis of gastric cancer (GC). Dysbiosis in the oral and gastric microbiome is closely associated with GC development, yet its complex nature poses challenges for traditional analytical methods. This study aims to integrate oral and gastric microbial characteristics and employ machine learning algorithms to construct a high-precision GC diagnostic model. METHODS: We collected saliva, gastric fluid, and gastric mucosa samples from 106 GC patients and 111 healthy controls. Microbiome data were obtained via 16S rRNA sequencing, with analyses conducted on species abundance, diversity and community composition. Algorithms including random forest and support vector machines were employed to identify the most discriminative bacterial genera. Multiple diagnostic models were trained based on these findings and evaluated through ten-fold cross-validation and independent external datasets. RESULTS: Results revealed significant differences in microbial composition between GC patients and healthy individuals. Diagnostic models constructed based on key bacterial genera demonstrated excellent performance: AUC values in the training set reached 0.96, 0.87, and 0.96 for oral, gastric fluid and gastric mucosa classifiers respectively, maintaining robust performance in external validation. Functional prediction revealed dysregulation in the microbiota of GC patients, while correlation analysis further indicated symbiotic relationships among cancer-associated bacterial genera. CONCLUSION: This study successfully established a GC diagnostic model based on oral and gastric microbial signatures. Its outstanding performance validates the substantial potential of the ‘oral-stomach’ microbial axis in GC auxiliary diagnosis, offering a novel cost-effective strategy for early screening.},
}

@article {pmid41968131,
year = {2026},
author = {Gortari, M and Maguire, VG and Ezquiaga, JP and Cicchino, M and Bailleres, M and Escaray, RU and Ruiz, OA and Llames, ME},
title = {Associations between soil microbiomes and carbon stabilization under long-term no-till farming systems in the Argentine Pampas.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-47621-4},
pmid = {41968131},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {PICTs 2018-3723 y 2020-2023//Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica , Argentina/ ; PICTs 2018-3723 y 2020-2023//Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica , Argentina/ ; PICTs 2018-3723 y 2020-2023//Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica , Argentina/ ; PICTs 2018-3723 y 2020-2023//Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica , Argentina/ ; PICTs 2018-3723 y 2020-2023//Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica , Argentina/ ; PICTs 2018-3723 y 2020-2023//Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica , Argentina/ ; PICTs 2018-3723 y 2020-2023//Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica , Argentina/ ; PICTs 2018-3723 y 2020-2023//Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica , Argentina/ ; PIP CONICET11220210100584CO 2022-2024//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas , Argentina/ ; PIP CONICET11220210100584CO 2022-2024//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas , Argentina/ ; PIP CONICET11220210100584CO 2022-2024//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas , Argentina/ ; PIP CONICET11220210100584CO 2022-2024//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas , Argentina/ ; PIP CONICET11220210100584CO 2022-2024//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas , Argentina/ ; PIP CONICET11220210100584CO 2022-2024//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas , Argentina/ ; PIP CONICET11220210100584CO 2022-2024//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas , Argentina/ ; PIP CONICET11220210100584CO 2022-2024//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas , Argentina/ ; },
abstract = {Soil microbial communities play a key role in carbon (C) cycling in agroecosystems; however, their long-term responses to contrasting management practices remain poorly understood in agricultural soils. In this study, we evaluated the effects of more than 20 years of no-till farming (NTF) and conventional tillage (CT) on soil physicochemical properties, bacterial and fungal community composition, and inferred functions related to C and nutrient cycling in the Argentine Pampas. We show that NTF increased total organic carbon (TOC) stocks in surface soils and promoted edaphic conditions associated with C stabilization, including higher cation exchange capacity and structural stability. Bacterial communities exhibited high functional redundancy and were primarily structured along sodium-related parameters, whereas fungal communities were more sensitive to management, with NTF favoring ligninolytic and symbiotic fungi that contribute to necromass formation and long-term carbon stabilization. In contrast, CT enriched opportunistic fungal guilds associated with disturbance and short-term nutrient turnover. Phylogenetic analyses revealed community assembly dominated by environmental filtering in both microbial domains. Overall, these results highlight the central role of fungi as mediators of soil C stabilization and suggest that conservation practices such as NTF enhance microbiome contributions to ecosystem services and climate change mitigation in intensively managed agroecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid42009852,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, L and Liu, Y and Ma, Y and Ma, W and Sang, D},
title = {Proteomic Analysis Reveals Differential Expression of Extracellular and Intracellular Proteins in Epichloë sinensis Grown Under Selenium Conditions.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {42009852},
issn = {1432-0991},
support = {32260345//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; grant number 2026-ZJ-711//the Science and Technology Program of Qinghai Province/ ; },
abstract = {Epichloë sinensis, a symbiotic fungus of Festuca sinensis, can enhance its host’s resistance to both abiotic and biotic stresses. Some microorganisms can convert toxic selenite into various forms of selenium, however, few studies have investigated the mechanisms by which Epichloë endophytes respond to selenite exposure in vitro. In the present study, we conducted a proteomic analysis of E. sinensis mycelia and secretome following treatment with 0.1 mmol/L sodium selenite, using Nano UPLC-MS/MS. The results identified approximately 141 intracellular proteins and 63 extracellular proteins. Among these, only seven differentially expressed proteins were commonly altered under both conditions. Based on Cluster of Orthologous Groups of proteins (COG) annotation, a total of 68 proteins showed significant changes in the treated intracellular condition, including 15 upregulated and 53 downregulated proteins. These proteins were primarily involved in protein turnover and chaperones, energy production and conversion, and ribosomal structure and biogenesis, compared to the control condition. Among the extracellular proteins, 25 (10 upregulated and 15 downregulated) were differentially expressed and were associated with protein turnover and chaperones, as well as inorganic ion transport and metabolism. Proteins encoded by hsp78 and catA were markedly upregulated, whereas catB, stiA, cpn10, and hsp70A were significantly downregulated, enhancing the adaptation of E. sinensis to selenium stress. Our findings suggest that E. sinensis responds to selenium stress through differential changes in intracellular and extracellular proteomes, providing a theoretical foundation for understanding the mechanism of Se metabolism in this fungus.},
}

@article {pmid42020828,
year = {2026},
author = {Bodea, M},
title = {Steps forward to synthetic consciousness measurement.},
journal = {Cognitive processing},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42020828},
issn = {1612-4790},
abstract = {Biological consciousness is the product of millions of years of evolution, being deeply rooted in the neural architecture of living organisms. It emerges from the interplay of sensory processing, memory, emotion, and metacognition, with the human brain being its most complex known expression. Synthetic consciousness, on the other hand, remains a theoretical construct, an aspiration rather than an achievement. Current AI systems, including the most advanced models, demonstrate highly sophisticated pattern recognition, reasoning, and even emergent behaviors, but they lack the embodied, affective, and subjective depth associated with biological beings. The paper focuses on the measurable aspects of conscious access the global availability of information for report, reasoning, and control, and proposes a model to quantify this capacity across biological and artificial systems. Projections based on Moore’s law, neural simulation efforts, and the exponential growth in processing power suggest that AI could begin to develop complex consciousness in the next 10 to 15 years, particularly through advances in neural architecture, affective computing, and brain-inspired hardware like neuromorphic chips. Looking forward, the interplay between biological and synthetic consciousness may become symbiotic rather than competitive. AI could help humans better understand their own consciousness by modeling cognitive processes, testing philosophical theories, and simulating consciousness under altered conditions. Conversely, biological paradigms of learning, adaptation, and emotion will continue to inspire AI development. The coming decades may see the rise of hybrid consciousness systems, where biological and synthetic processes intertwine, creating forms of awareness that transcend current definitions.},
}

@article {pmid42342450,
year = {2026},
author = {Chowdhury, S and Kruger, AJ and Roger, LM},
title = {Conserved HSP60 structure with lineage- and context-specific regulation in cnidarians.},
journal = {Life science alliance},
volume = {9},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {42342450},
issn = {2575-1077},
mesh = {Animals ; *Chaperonin 60/genetics/metabolism/chemistry ; Phylogeny ; Heat-Shock Response ; *Cnidaria/metabolism/genetics ; Sea Anemones/metabolism/genetics ; Mitochondria/metabolism ; Stress, Physiological ; },
abstract = {Heat shock proteins safeguard proteostasis under stress. We examined mitochondrial chaperonin HSP60 in three cnidarians to assess stress responses. We evaluated HSP60 expression in Pocillopora acuta (hard coral), Exaiptasia diaphana (sea anemone), and Cassiopea xamachana (upside-down jellyfish) using immunoblotting. In P. acuta, HSP60 was not detected at the fragment level under either control (25°C) or heat-stress (30°C). In contrast, isolated cells showed transient HSP60 expression under both temperature conditions, indicating context-dependent regulation in coral. E. diaphana and C. xamachana showed elevated HSP60 expression over 24 h when stressed (+5°C above laboratory optima). These patterns indicate lineage-specific regulatory mechanisms underlying chaperone-mediated stress response pathways. Thus, thermal sensitivity varies among species and across biological contexts. Consistent antibody cross-reactivity prompted evolutionary analysis. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed cnidarian HSP60 proteins are orthologous to vertebrate HSP60, demonstrating deep conservation across Metazoa. Although HSP60 is ancient and highly conserved, its role in regulating mitochondrial proteostasis varies across early-diverging metazoans. This study underlines the role of chaperone plasticity in cnidarian thermotolerance and diverging bleaching susceptibility of symbiotic cnidarians.},
}

Animals
*Chaperonin 60/genetics/metabolism/chemistry
Phylogeny
Heat-Shock Response
*Cnidaria/metabolism/genetics
Sea Anemones/metabolism/genetics
Mitochondria/metabolism
Stress, Physiological

@article {pmid42343093,
year = {2026},
author = {Lu, J and Chen, J and Jiang, K and Zhang, F and Peng, Y and Zhang, Y and Long, M and Dong, X and Yang, W and Gao, Y and Li, J and Li, X and Wang, Z},
title = {A Phytosulfokine signaling module activates the Nod factor receptor to control soybean nodulation.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41467-026-74586-9},
pmid = {42343093},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {32090062, 32472087//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 32330078//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 2025AFB582//Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province (Hubei Provincial Natural Science Foundation)/ ; },
abstract = {The rhizobia-legume symbiosis, essential for nitrogen fixation, is initiated through Nod Factor (NF) perception by the NF receptors (NFRs). However, the mechanisms regulating NFR activity remain poorly defined. Here, we identify a NODULE INCEPTION 1 (GmNIN1)- Subtilisin-like Protease 1.2 (GmSBT1.2) - Phytosulfokine 4 (GmPSK4) - Phytosulfokine Receptor 1 (GmPSKR1) signaling module that directly activates the GmNFR1ɑ to promote nodulation in soybean. We demonstrate that GmNIN1a specifically activates GmSBT1.2b/1.2d, which are important for nodulation. GmSBT1.2b cleaves the proprotein of the phytosulfokine peptide GmPSK4a into mature form. Knockout of GmPSK4a and its homolog GmPSK4b severely impairs nodulation. Genetic analyses confirm the functionally interdependency of GmSBT1.2b/1.2d and GmPSK4a/4b. GmPSKR1a/1b/1c, identified as GmPSK4 receptors, are beneficial to nodulation. Notably, GmPSKR1a physically interacts with GmNFR1ɑ and enhances its kinase activity. Thus, the activation of GmNFR1ɑ by GmPSKR1a is important to its role in initiating NF signaling. Our findings uncover a previously unknown regulatory mechanism that controls the core NF signaling, providing fundamental insights into the governance of symbiotic nitrogen fixation.},
}

@article {pmid42343230,
year = {2026},
author = {Martínez-Moré, M and Filippi, CV and Eastman, G and Quero, G and Sotelo-Silveira, M and Píriz-Pezzutto, S and Sotelo-Silveira, J and Borsani, O and Sainz, MM},
title = {Genes associated with translation and oxidative phosphorylation as components of the translational response in nodulated and water-restricted soybean.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12870-026-09344-6},
pmid = {42343230},
issn = {1471-2229},
support = {RTS_1_2014_1-ANII//Red Nacional de Biotecnología Agrícola/ ; Grant No. 22520220100256UD//CSIC I+D 2022/ ; Grant No. 282//CSIC I+D 2020/ ; Grant No. 210//FVF-MEC 2017/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Soybean primarily acquires nitrogen through symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Water deficit (WD) is a major stress limiting crop yield. Nodulation may enhance drought tolerance in legumes by modulating nitrogen and hormone metabolism, osmotic adjustment, and antioxidant defenses; however, the molecular basis underlying the differential WD responses between N-fix and N-fed plants remain unclear. Translational control of gene expression is a key regulatory mechanism during stress.

RESULTS: We compared the transcriptome and translatome of soybean roots from N-fix and N-fed plants exposed to WD across four combined treatments. N-fix plants under WD exhibited more complex responses in terms of total differentially expressed genes (DEGs) compared to N-fed plants. This increased complexity was also evident among translationally regulated DEGs and differentially expressed transcription factors, whose involvement in WD responses of N-fix plants is novel. Co-expression network analysis identified modules associated with core biological processes encompassing nodulation, WD, and notably, their interplay was particularly prominent in Module 1, which was enriched in genes related to ribosomal protein synthesis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Guilt-by-Association analysis enabled the prediction of novel functions for differentially expressed, uncharacterized hub genes related to stress and/or nodulation responses.

CONCLUSIONS: Translational regulation of genes involved in OXPHOS and translation initiation emerged as a central response in N-fix plants under WD. These findings reveal distinct molecular adaptations in N-fix soybean roots facing WD and highlight translational control as a key regulatory layer. We also identified promising candidate genes-including transcription factors and uncharacterized hub genes under translational regulation-that represent potential targets for improving drought tolerance in legumes once validated functionally.},
}

@article {pmid42343442,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, H and Cheng, L and Liu, D and Ma, Y and Fan, H and He, S and Liang, W and Mei, D and Ma, X and Li, R and Mi, H and Wang, J and Li, J and Yu, X and Zhang, S and Shu, K},
title = {Complement C5a/C5aR1 pathway facilitates glioblastoma progression via fostering glioma stem cell-macrophage symbiosis.},
journal = {Journal of neuroinflammation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12974-026-03930-z},
pmid = {42343442},
issn = {1742-2094},
support = {82403476//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82503376//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 81974452//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82072805//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024//Hubei Association for Science and Technology Young Talents Support Projects/ ; 2023AFB135//Hubei Natural Science Foundation/ ; 2022M711253//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; 2024M761034//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; 2025JCYJ053//Huazhong University of Science and Technology Young Scholars Program for Medical-Engineering Interdisciplinary Research/ ; AI2025B01//Artificial Intelligence Program of Tongji Hospital/ ; 2019kfyXJJS187//Huazhong University of Science and Technology Independent Innovation Research Fund Project/ ; 2023YFC2510000//National Key R&D Program of China, MOST/ ; },
abstract = {Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) symbiotically interact with glioma stem cells (GSCs) to facilitate GSCs stemness maintenance and glioblastoma (GBM) progression. Here we identified the complement 5a (C5a) as a key mediator of GSCs-TAMs symbiosis through integrative screening. C5a is preferentially expressed and secreted by GSCs. C5a activates the p-STAT3-cMyc-PD-L1 axis to promote GSCs proliferation, self-renewal and resistance against cytotoxic T cells through its receptor C5aR1. Moreover, GSCs-derived C5a trigger the infiltration and immunosuppressive polarization of TAMs through C5aR1-p-AKT T308 axis in tumor microenvironment. Importantly, silencing or pharmacological inhibition of C5a/C5aR1 disrupts both GSCs and TAMs and suppresses GBM tumor growth. In human GBM, the C5a/C5aR1 axis is activated and positively correlates with stemness, immunosuppressive TAMs and predicts poor prognosis. Collectively, these results demonstrate the key role of C5a/C5aR1 pathway in GSCs-TAMs symbiosis and indicate the therapeutic potential of targeting this pathway for GBM treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42343855,
year = {2026},
author = {Baños-Quintana, AP and de Carvalho, ASP and Kaltenpoth, M},
title = {Symbiotic organs in insects: diversity, functional implications, and terminology.},
journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences},
volume = {381},
number = {1953},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1098/rstb.2024.0386},
pmid = {42343855},
issn = {1471-2970},
support = {//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; //H2020 European Research Council/ ; //Max-Planck-Gesellschaft/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Symbiosis ; *Insecta/microbiology/physiology/anatomy & histology ; Terminology as Topic ; *Fungi/physiology ; *Microbiota ; *Bacterial Physiological Phenomena ; },
abstract = {With over a million described species, insects represent the most successful group of animals on Earth. One of the drivers of insect diversity is their ability to engage in multifold beneficial symbioses with microorganisms, often involving specialized host organs to accommodate intra- or extracellular symbionts. The existence of such organs and their importance for sustaining and transmitting beneficial symbionts has been known for over a century, and specific terms have been established for categorizing organs harbouring intracellular bacteria (bacteriomes) or fungi (mycetomes), or cuticular crypts containing extracellular fungi (mycetangia). For others, however, general terms are lacking, e.g. organs containing extracellular bacteria associated with the cuticle or with the digestive tract. Furthermore, previously established terms have been misused in other contexts. Notably, 'bacteriome' has been increasingly employed in the microbiome field to refer to bacterial communities, instead of the term's original meaning of specialized organs housing intracellular bacterial symbionts. Here, we review and categorize the diversity of symbiotic organs in insects and propose a unified terminology. Our hope is that this common language will facilitate communication and thereby support the field of symbiosis research in unravelling commonalities and differences in the evolution, ecology, development, physiology and molecular basis across symbiotic interactions. This article is part of the theme issue 'Life in natural microcosms'.},
}

Animals
*Symbiosis
*Insecta/microbiology/physiology/anatomy & histology
Terminology as Topic
*Fungi/physiology
*Microbiota
*Bacterial Physiological Phenomena

@article {pmid42343885,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, F and Chen, H and Ye, J and Xu, H and Lin, H and Cen, L and Luo, D and Chen, X and Hu, H and Wang, Z and Deng, Y and Deng, L},
title = {Holistic genome assembly and analysis of the Tremella fuciformis interaction community uncovers intergenomic insights beyond dual genomes.},
journal = {IMA fungus},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {e185345},
pmid = {42343885},
issn = {2210-6340},
abstract = {Tremella fuciformis (T. fuciformis) is consistently found in association with Annulohypoxylon stygium (A. stygium) in natural environments. However, their interaction remains largely cryptic and requires a dedicated in situ sequencing approach for elucidation. Traditional genome sequencing and assembly yield genetic information for only one species at a time. In this study, the interacting community of T. fuciformis was sequenced as an integrated unit, obtaining three complete genomes in a single run, specifically two heterokaryotic genomes of T. fuciformis and one of A. stygium. Validated across four dimensions, these genomes showed excellent continuity, completeness, and accuracy. Interspecifically, the cell ratio of T. fuciformis to A. stygium was estimated at 1:1.09, and no genomic evidence supported DNA exchange through long-term symbiosis. Heterokaryotically, distinct chromosomal structural variations were observed between the core and accessory chromosomes of T. fuciformis, while internal transcribed spacer (ITS) fragment polymorphism indicated that single-locus ITS data may inadequately reflect genetic complexity. Using the community genome as molecular markers enabled strain identification and confirmed interactions. Overall, this study provides methods for studying interactive community genomes and their interspecific and internuclear connections.},
}

@article {pmid42345343,
year = {2026},
author = {Zeng, MY and Zhou, CY and Wang, L and Gao, J and Yin, W and Peng, DH and Lan, S and Yang, FX and Liu, ZJ},
title = {Orchid genome evolution and trait innovation.},
journal = {Journal of integrative plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jipb.70315},
pmid = {42345343},
issn = {1744-7909},
abstract = {Orchidaceae, one of the largest and most morphologically diverse angiosperm families, showcases unique evolutionary adaptations in morphology, ecology, and function. Recent advances in molecular and genomic research have greatly reshaped our understanding of orchid evolution, revealing how genome dynamics, ecological interactions, and developmental plasticity jointly shaped their exceptional diversification. Phylogenomic frameworks derived from various genomic datasets have reconstructed the evolutionary history, revealing the influence of geological, climatic, and biotic factors on ancient divergences and global distributions. Comprehensive genomic studies have uncovered substantial variation in genome size, structure, and composition, largely driven by repetitive elements and whole-genome duplication events that facilitated adaptive radiations. Key innovations, including epiphytism, mycoheterotrophy, and deceptive pollination, are linked to gene family evolution and modifications in pathways related to CAM photosynthesis, mycorrhizal symbiosis, and floral morphogenesis. Integrative multi-omics approaches further illuminate mechanisms underlying speciation hotspots, coevolution with pollinators and fungi, and the molecular basis of developmental diversity. Overall, this review synthesizes current genomic, phylogenetic, and functional insights into orchid evolution, providing a theoretical foundation and future research framework for understanding their molecular diversification.},
}

@article {pmid42345650,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Y and Qin, C},
title = {A Hybrid Metaheuristic for High-Dimensional Constrained Optimization: Applications to Logistics and UAV Path Planning.},
journal = {Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biomimetics11060361},
pmid = {42345650},
issn = {2313-7673},
support = {NYG2024093)//Ningxia Higher Education Institution Project/ ; },
abstract = {Inspired by the hovering, diving, and cooperative hunting behaviors of the pied kingfisher, the Pied Kingfisher Optimizer (PKO) has demonstrated competitive performance in optimization tasks. However, it exhibits several phase-specific limitations, including uneven population distribution caused by random initialization, insufficient use of historical information during exploration, over-reliance on the global best during exploitation, and weakly guided perturbation in the symbiosis phase. To address these issues, this study proposes an Improved Pied Kingfisher Optimizer (IPKO), which incorporates biologically inspired adaptive strategies. Drawing inspiration from the kingfisher's diverse perching, gaze adjustment during hovering, evasive diving after failed strikes, and territory shifting based on flock position, four mechanisms are developed. Specifically, sine chaotic opposition-based initialization enhances population diversity; adaptive directional search regulates the exploration-exploitation balance; stochastic perturbation-based information fusion improves the ability to escape local optima; and centroid-based adaptive boundary handling strengthens constraint adaptability. The performance of IPKO is evaluated on the CEC2017 benchmark suite (10, 30, 50, and 100 dimensions) and two real-world engineering problems. Experimental results show that IPKO achieves superior overall performance compared with eleven state-of-the-art algorithms, with statistical significance confirmed by the Friedman test and Holm's post-hoc procedure. Ablation studies further verify the contribution of each strategy. In engineering applications such as cold chain logistics and dynamic multi-UAV cooperative path planning, the IPKO algorithm demonstrates superior solution quality, robustness, and constraint-handling capability compared with competing algorithms. These results demonstrate that IPKO is a robust and effective bio-inspired optimization approach for solving complex, high-dimensional constrained engineering problems.},
}

@article {pmid42345810,
year = {2026},
author = {Duan, Y and Huang, Z and Yang, X and Tian, Q and Ye, L and Zhang, B and Li, X},
title = {Armillaria Species: Biological Complexity, Bioactive Metabolites and Molecular Foundations for Medicinal and Agricultural Applications.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {15},
number = {12},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology15120954},
pmid = {42345810},
issn = {2079-7737},
abstract = {Armillaria is a genus of macrofungi with high ecological, biological, medicinal, and edible value. As facultative plant pathogens and nutritional symbionts, Armillaria species support the growth of valuable medicinal plants including Gastrodia elata and Polyporus umbellatus. They also exhibit unique traits such as exceptional longevity, widespread clonal expansion, rhizomorph formation, and bioluminescence, making them a valuable model for studying fungal ecology, symbiosis, specialized metabolism, and applied research. This review summarizes recent progress in Armillaria research, covering biological characteristics, nutritional components, bioactive constituents, species identification, genomic resources, and biosynthetic pathways. We discuss advances in artificial cultivation and the regulatory roles of exogenous phytohormones in mycelial and rhizomorph development. The nutritional value of fruiting bodies is highlighted, with a focus on key pharmacologically active metabolites such as protoilludane-type sesquiterpenes and polysaccharides. We also review multilocus phylogenetic analysis, comparative genomics, and the biosynthetic gene clusters of melleolides and bioluminescence, which have improved understanding of Armillaria evolution and functional differentiation.},
}

@article {pmid42346527,
year = {2026},
author = {Si, G and Zhang, X and Zhang, C and Li, Y and Wang, X and Guo, N and Chen, J},
title = {The Role of Trichoderma harzianum Elicitor Hyd1 in Inducing the Maize Endophytic Microbial Community and Bacillus Strains Against Maize Root Rot.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {42346527},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {2023YFD1401503//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; KJXM2023-12-01//Special Cooperation Project of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and Shanghai Jiao Tong University/ ; 24010701500//Domestic Collaboration Projects of the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Science and Tech-nology/ ; CARS-02//China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARA/ ; },
abstract = {Fusarium root rot (caused by Fusarium verticillioides) is a destructive soilborne disease in maize, significantly reducing crop yields. The root symbiotic fungi Trichoderma species have been confirmed as effective biocontrol microbes for Fusarium root rot; however, the mechanistic role of Trichoderma-induced endophytes in suppressing Fusarium root rot in maize remains unclear. This study found that Trichoderma harzianum T30 significantly reduced the abundance of pathogens by 48.9% and increased the abundance of potentially antagonistic Bacillus strains (33%) in the root endophytic bacterial community. In addition, the hyd1 gene in T. harzianum T30 induced a 7.5-fold upregulation of ZmOPR7 in maize roots compared to the Δhyd1 mutant treatment, a gene related to the jasmonic acid (JA) pathway. Further, several endophytic Bacillus strains were specifically induced by a hyd1-overexpressing strain, including B. amyloliquefaciens MX66, B. velezensis C9, and B. velezensis GAGAN3. Three endophytes significantly (p < 0.05) reduced Fusarium root rot incidence in maize by 46.6-55.0% and upregulated the expression of jasmonic acid/ethylene (JA/ET) pathway-related genes (ZmOPR7, ZmOPR8 and ZmEIL1) by 5.4-, 1.5-, and 4.6-fold, respectively, compared to untreated controls. Meanwhile, the Bacillus strain also improved maize plant growth. This study examined how overexpression of the T. harzianum elicitor gene hyd1 (in the OE-hyd1 strain) affects the colonization dynamics of beneficial endophytic bacteria in maize roots. Additionally, it further suggested the contribution of selected endophytic Bacillus strains in suppressing Fusarium root rot in maize.},
}

@article {pmid42346964,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, M and Zhao, X and Tang, M and Zou, W},
title = {Bacterial Outer Membrane Vesicles: Research Advances from Biogenesis Mechanisms to Engineered Applications.},
journal = {Membranes},
volume = {16},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/membranes16060208},
pmid = {42346964},
issn = {2077-0375},
abstract = {Bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) are spherical structures made up of a double layer, they are each nanostructured (20-300 nm), and they are released from all populations of Gram-negative bacteria. The purpose of this review is to synthesize a comprehensive summary of the current state of knowledge about OMV biogenesis, function in biology, and application to biomedical engineering. Using these three known biogenesis mechanisms as a basis for this review, we discuss the mechanisms of OMV biogenesis that have been described as conserved: (1) disruption of outer membrane-peptidoglycan links. (2) periplasmic stress-driven adaptive release is associated with bilayer lipid asymmetry and the use of signaling molecules. OMVs are considered to be "public goods" for the microbe, allowing for nutrient acquisition, resistance to antibiotics, and the potential for horizontal gene transfer between microbes. OMVs exhibit a different duality at the interface of the pathogen host, where the pathogenic OMV is the delivery vehicle for virulence factors and pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) leading to host immune response, while the symbiotic OMV (e.g., those produced by Bacteroides fragilis (Bact. fragilis)) promote regulatory T cell differentiation and mucosal tolerance. The review also addresses the various techniques currently available to isolate OMVs (e.g., ultracentrifugation and size-exclusion chromatographic techniques) and presents engineered/alloying strategies (e.g., genetic modifications to tolR/msbB and surface functionalization) to enhance the viability, safety, and specificity of OMVs for biomedical delivery. Finally, the review addresses significant obstacles related to standardization, batch variation, and in vivo safety associated with synthetic or personalized therapeutics based on OMVs, providing some recommendations for future research in this area.},
}

@article {pmid42348219,
year = {2026},
author = {Mederer, M and Gautam, A and Kohlbacher, O and Lupas, A and Elhabashy, H},
title = {Interacting Species Database (ISDB): Comprehensive Resource for Interspecies Interactions at the Molecular Level.},
journal = {Bioinformatics (Oxford, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/bioinformatics/btag419},
pmid = {42348219},
issn = {1367-4811},
abstract = {MOTIVATION: Organisms within ecological systems often engage in molecular interactions that mediate key biological processes, such as protein-protein interactions involved in host-pathogen recognition and symbiosis. Characterization of these interactions at a molecular level is essential for understanding the mechanistic, evolutionary, and functional basis of interspecies interactions, as well as for informing potential therapeutic interventions. However, progress in this field is significantly impeded by the lack of a comprehensive database of interacting species at molecular resolution and the limited availability of experimental data.

RESULTS: We introduce the Interacting Species Database (ISDB), a comprehensive resource that catalogs interspecies interactions, annotated with NCBI taxonomic identifiers, interaction types and known molecular interactions. The ISDB encompasses 858,229 interacting species pairs and 171,713 interspecies protein-protein interactions within 261,287 organisms. ISDB is designed to support researchers in searching for, downloading, and depositing interspecies interaction data, which facilitates the study of ecological dynamics across diverse research domains.

AVAILABILITY: The ISDB is available via a web interface (https://www.elhabashylab.org/isdb), open-source code on GitHub (https://github.com/ElhabashyLab/ISDB) under the MIT license and is archived on Zenodo (Version v1.0.1, DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.20162385).},
}

@article {pmid42348301,
year = {2026},
author = {De la Vega-Camarillo, E and Ortíz-Álvarez, J and Hernández-García, JA and Villa-Tanaca, L and Hernández-Rodríguez, C},
title = {A maize-associated Rhizobium miluonense fixes nitrogen in free-living conditions through an exopolysaccharide-dependent biofilm mechanism.},
journal = {Microbial genomics},
volume = {12},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/mgen.0.001765},
pmid = {42348301},
issn = {2057-5858},
mesh = {*Zea mays/microbiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Nitrogen Fixation ; *Polysaccharides, Bacterial/metabolism/genetics ; *Rhizobium/genetics/metabolism/physiology/isolation & purification/classification ; Symbiosis ; Genome, Bacterial ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; Nitrogen/metabolism ; Rhizosphere ; },
abstract = {Rhizobium miluonense WD29, isolated from the rhizosphere of Jala landrace maize (Mexico), demonstrates FLNF, an unusual trait for this typically symbiotic genus. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a 6.8 Mb genome (59.7% GC) with 6,908 protein-coding genes, including a complete repABC plasmid replication system and type IV secretion genes. The strain exhibits plant growth-promoting traits, including phosphate solubilization (26.1±1.9 µg ml[-1]), indolic compound production (19.7±2.5 µg ml[-1]) and metallophore production. Acetylene reduction assays demonstrated nitrogen fixation rates up to 21.7±2.3 nmol C2H4 h[-1], which correlated strongly (r=0.973) with exopolysaccharide production (0.8±0.08 g l[-1]), suggesting that biofilm formation creates microaerobic conditions protecting nitrogenase. Genomic analysis identified 12 exo-cluster genes and 98 total polysaccharide biosynthesis genes that support this phenotype. Additionally, R. miluonense WD29 exhibits remarkable environmental adaptability, harbouring genes for heavy-metal resistance and diverse stress-response pathways. These findings highlight the potential of R. miluonense WD29 as a valuable biofertilizer for sustainable agriculture, particularly for non-leguminous crops such as maize, and underscore the importance of studying nitrogen-fixing bacteria isolated from traditional agricultural systems.},
}

*Zea mays/microbiology
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Nitrogen Fixation
*Polysaccharides, Bacterial/metabolism/genetics
*Rhizobium/genetics/metabolism/physiology/isolation & purification/classification
Symbiosis
Genome, Bacterial
Whole Genome Sequencing
Nitrogen/metabolism
Rhizosphere

@article {pmid42348782,
year = {2026},
author = {Xia, H and Du, J and Kong, Y and Wang, Y and Xi, Y and Hu, C and Wang, W and Lei, L and Pan, X and Kang, L and Shi, J},
title = {Harnessing a Functional Rhizobial Partnership with Astragalus sinicus L. to Unlock Phytoremediation Potential for Soil Heavy Metals.},
journal = {Journal of agricultural and food chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jafc.6c01468},
pmid = {42348782},
issn = {1520-5118},
abstract = {Phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils is often limited by phytotoxicity and metal availability. This study evaluated the phytoremediation potential of Astragalus sinicus L. and its symbiotic rhizobia. A nationwide soil survey revealed significantly lower arsenic (As) in planted versus unplanted soils, and key factors governing metal retention were attenuated in planted soils, indicating plant-mediated interference. Pot experiments confirmed that A. sinicus L. cultivation significantly reduced soil cadmium (Cd) (33.33%), lead (Pb, 39.73%), copper (Cu, 12.92%), and As (23.70%). Among rhizobial isolates, Mesorhizobium sp. XS6-2 exhibited the highest heavy metal tolerance. Inoculation with XS6-2 increased plant biomass and specifically enhanced chromium (Cr) and Pb remediation. Microbiome analysis showed that XS6-2 reshaped the rhizosphere community and strengthened microbial interactions. Our findings demonstrate a potent plant-microbe synergy that alleviates phytotoxicity and increases metal availability, offering an effective strategy to advance phytoremediation.},
}

@article {pmid42349636,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, J and Ren, Y and Zhu, D and Hu, Z and Li, J and Li, M},
title = {A novel metabolic complementation pattern: The synergistic response between Sogatella furcifera and its symbionts under chitosan oligosaccharide stress sprayed on rice.},
journal = {Journal of insect physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105019},
doi = {10.1016/j.jinsphys.2026.105019},
pmid = {42349636},
issn = {1879-1611},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Insects and their symbionts respond synergistically to environmental changes, and metabolites are one of the important linkers in their interaction. Little is known about how plant growth regulators (PGR) affect planthoppers and their interacting symbiotic bacteria through sprayed rice.

RESULTS: Here, we observed abnormalities in the planthopper's growth length and developmental duration when rice seedlings treated with near-field concentrations of chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) were fed to first-instar nymphs of the white-backed planthopper (WBPH, Sogatella furcifera) for one week. The differentially expressed genes of WBPH were mostly enriched in downregulated metabolic pathways, suggesting the potential involvement of its symbionts. Amplicon sequencing results validated our hypothesis that the abundance of Acetobacteraceae Unclassified (closely related to Asaia sp.) was significantly increased (from an average of 1.24% to 74.68%) under COS stress, manifested in a significant upregulation of three major metabolic pathways involving carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids. Analysis of their shared differential metabolites and the resulting three bioindicators' interaction networks revealed a close triangular relationship among them. They exhibited reciprocal changes in main metabolic functions confirming that metabolites are important intermediaries between insects and symbiotic bacteria.

CONCLUSION: Our research provides a reference for the scientific use of PGR and the exploration of insect-symbiotic interaction mechanisms.},
}

@article {pmid42350118,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, B and Yang, LX and Li, F and Dong, H and Hao, JX},
title = {Fine root adaptation strategies of Pinus koraiensis and P. sylvestris var. mongolica under rocky steep slope conditions.},
journal = {Ying yong sheng tai xue bao = The journal of applied ecology},
volume = {37},
number = {5},
pages = {1422-1430},
doi = {10.13287/j.1001-9332.202605.004},
pmid = {42350118},
issn = {1001-9332},
abstract = {To improve the effectiveness of ecological restoration of rocky steep slopes and the scientific selection of tree species, we analyzed the adaptation strategies of fine roots of 14-year-old young plantations of Pinus koraiensis and P. sylvestris var. mongolica under the rocky steep slope restoration. The results showed that under non-rocky gentle normal conditions, there was no difference in the topological indices (TI) between P. koraiensis (0.69) and P. sylvestris var. mongolica (0.73). On rocky steep slopes, the topological indice of P. koraiensis fine root significantly decreased (TI=0.63), showing dichotomous branching, whereas that of P. sylvestris var. mongolica significantly increased (TI=0.79), with branching structure approaching a herringbone pattern. Under normal conditions, there were significant morphological differences between the two species. The average fine root diameter of P. koraiensis was 1.6 times that of P. sylvestris var. mongolica, while its specific root length and specific root surface area were only one-third and one-half that of P. sylvestris var. mongolica, respectively. Under rocky steep slope conditions, the average diameter and specific root length of 1st-3rd order roots significantly increased while tissue density significantly decreased in P. koraiensis, whereas P. sylvestris var. mongolica showed opposite trends. Compared with those under normal conditions, P. sylvestris var. mongolica on rocky steep slopes exhibited significantly increased carbon content and C:N but significantly decreased nitrogen content in its 1st-3rd order fine roots, while P. koraiensis showed an opposite trend. The mycorrhizal colonization rate significantly increased by 25.0% in P. koraiensis but decreased by 32.3% in P. sylvestris var. mongolica on rocky steep slopes. P. koraiensis enhanced resource acquisition through increasing fine root dichotomous branching and mycorrhizal symbiosis, whereas P. sylvestris var. mongolica adapted via simplifying branching structure of fine roots and enhancing tissue defense. Both species were suitable for ecological restoration on rocky steep slopes.},
}

@article {pmid42350145,
year = {2026},
author = {Guo, D and Liu, C and Chen, YT},
title = {Cable bacteria drive electrochemical coupling and elemental cycling in rhizosphere: A review.},
journal = {Ying yong sheng tai xue bao = The journal of applied ecology},
volume = {37},
number = {5},
pages = {1708-1716},
doi = {10.13287/j.1001-9332.202605.033},
pmid = {42350145},
issn = {1001-9332},
abstract = {Cable bacteria are a type of filamentous conductive microorganisms with the capacity of centimeter level long-range electron transfer (LDET). As a "biological cable" in the environment, they play a key role as geochemi-cal engineers in the rhizosphere microenvironment. They also drive a series of interconnected redox reactions by constructing a unique bioelectrochemical network that connects root oxygen secretion (ROL) with deep sulfide oxidation. We reviewed the colonization patterns of cable bacteria in the rhizosphere and their interactions with plants. LDET could efficiently drive the in-situ formation of sulfide detoxification and iron oxide barriers, deeply couple the sulfur iron phosphorus cycle, significantly reduce methane emissions from ecosystems such as rice paddies, and improve phosphorus fixation and retention efficiency. The interaction between cable bacteria and plants has great potential for applications in organic pollutant degradation, heavy metal stabilization, ecosystem restoration, and greenhouse gas emission reduction. This review would provide new research ideas and theoretical references for deepening the understanding of microbial-plant symbiosis and transforming it into ecological engineering strategies, such as rhizosphere remediation and greenhouse gas emission reduction.},
}

@article {pmid42335884,
year = {2026},
author = {Nickles, GR and Vaiana, A and Park, SC and Broz, K and Estes, HP and Llewellyn, T and Drott, MT and Keller, NP and Singh, G},
title = {Tracing the origins of crmA megasynthase through lichen genomes.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2026.05.036},
pmid = {42335884},
issn = {1879-0445},
abstract = {The products of isocyanide synthase (ICS) biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) have been implicated in microbial interactions, pathogenesis, and metal homeostasis. While several ICS BGCs have been described as mediating metal-associated ecologies, the evolutionary history of these clusters is unexplored among Lecanoromycetes, a clade comprised predominantly of symbiotic, lichen-forming fungi (LFF), which are known to thrive in both metal-contaminated and scarce environments. Analyzing nearly 4,000 fungal genomes, including 90 Lecanoromycetes, we identified a significant 3-fold enrichment of ICS-encoding genes in lichenized fungi compared with non-lichenized counterparts. This expansion includes six distinct clades enriched in LFF. Evolutionary reconstruction uncovered a widespread "split" variant of the copper-responsive (crmA) pathway, where the ICS- and NRPS-like components are encoded on separate genes, contrasting to the canonical "fused" crmA megasynthase. Metabolic characterization and genetic deletions in Fusarium graminearum confirmed that this split architecture is functionally equivalent to the fused form. Our chemical analysis suggests the first evidence of a potential leucine-derived isocyanide metabolite. Phylogenetic reconstruction indicates that the fused crmA arose from a split ancestor whose NRPS-like subdomain evolved from a canonical thioester reductase architecture likely via domain replacement. Redefinition of the crmA pathway to include the split ICS/NRPS-like variant reveals that crmA is one of the most prevalent ICSs in the fungi. We developed a website (https://isocyanides.fungi.wisc.edu/) that facilitates the exploration and downloading of all major results in our study. Our work demonstrates how exploring understudied fungal lineages can define new specialized metabolism lineages and reshape our understanding of the evolution of broadly conserved biosynthetic pathways.},
}

@article {pmid42337317,
year = {2026},
author = {Yi, T and Zhu, H},
title = {Net ecological benefits of co-processing papermaking waste into alkali-activated slag mortar building materials: a gate-to-gate LCA approach.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-59050-4},
pmid = {42337317},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {2025SJYB0917//Jiangsu Provincial Department of Education/ ; KYY24541//Jiangsu University of Technology/ ; 2025BSCX07//Guangdong Polytechnic of Water Resources and Electric Engineering/ ; },
abstract = {Global climate crisis and waste disposal costs drive the need for circular industrial models. This study investigates whether industrial symbiosis through co-disposal of papermaking waste and blast furnace slag can convert these materials from waste to resources. Using a system expansion Life Cycle Assessment framework, we assessed alkali-activated mortars based on global warming potential, water footprint, and toxic impacts. Results indicate that high-volume waste substitution significantly improves the material's environmental profile, achieving a net-negative Global Warming Potential of - 7.9 kg CO2 eq/m[3] and a 129% net environmental benefit for human health damage compared to the baseline. These results occur because the avoidance of landfill-related greenhouse gas emissions and primary material production outweigh the impacts of chemical activation. This study outlines a structured approach to decarbonizing construction materials. It shows how technological innovation can strengthen competitiveness within circular economic systems. This work verifies the technical feasibility of regenerative material strategies and identifies activator optimization as a critical factor for advancing next-generation sustainable materials, thereby offering practical guidance to help industrial sectors meet global sustainability requirements.},
}

@article {pmid42338329,
year = {2026},
author = {Araujo, G and Thomas, T and Montoya, JM and Webster, NS and Lurgi, M},
title = {Towards Key Principles of Host-Associated Microbiome Assembly.},
journal = {Ecology letters},
volume = {29},
number = {6},
pages = {e70433},
doi = {10.1111/ele.70433},
pmid = {42338329},
issn = {1461-0248},
support = {RPG-2022-114//Leverhulme Trust/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Microbiota ; *Symbiosis ; *Models, Biological ; *Porifera/microbiology ; Humans ; *Host Microbial Interactions ; },
abstract = {Symbiotic relationships between microbes and hosts frequently involve the assembly of complex microbial communities. Community-level patterns influence life-history traits, ecological trajectories of partners, and are often critical for host health. These patterns are driven by mechanisms acting at the individual level, including microbial dispersal, host selection, and microbe-resource interactions. Critically, we still lack a clear picture of how these mechanisms interact to shape microbiome assembly. We present a model that describes how distinct community structures arise from those underlying mechanisms. To illustrate the approach, we simulate microbiome data from marine sponges, thereby bridging mechanistic models and empirical patterns. We further apply the model to human data to explore its relevance across systems, proposing that a small set of general mechanisms may govern diverse patterns of diversity and abundance. Our findings advance ecological theory by linking individual-level processes to community-scale patterns, illuminating key drivers of microbiome assembly.},
}

Animals
*Microbiota
*Symbiosis
*Models, Biological
*Porifera/microbiology
Humans
*Host Microbial Interactions

@article {pmid42338642,
year = {2026},
author = {Tanaka, S},
title = {Aidification of the self: a phenomenological approach to machine consciousness through human-robot 'between-ness'.},
journal = {Neuroscience of consciousness},
volume = {2026},
number = {1},
pages = {niag032},
pmid = {42338642},
issn = {2057-2107},
abstract = {This paper explores the fundamental challenges of machine consciousness in the era of Physical AI, where Large Language Models (LLMs) are integrated with humanoid platforms. While current systems like 'Ameca' exhibit sophisticated conversational abilities, they remain ungrounded discursive constructs operating within the realm of 'spoken speech' (parole parlée)-linguistic patterns detached from lived experience. Drawing on phenomenology and developmental psychology, this study argues that authentic self-consciousness is not an internal property of an isolated agent but a relational quality emerging from the Aida (a Japanese concept referring to the relational 'in-between' that emerges between interacting agents). To address the symbol grounding problem, this research proposes the paradigm of 'Aidification.' Through a phenomenological analysis of bodily origins, we trace the constitution of the 'Me' through a developmental trajectory from the hands-initially experienced as visible instruments of action-to the face, which remains phenomenologically inaccessible to the self and thus requires the 'gaze of the Other' as the essential catalyst for self-objectification. Within this framework, language is reconceptualized as a 'cane for thought' that enables 'speaking speech' (parole parlante)-a creative act of meaning-generation anchored in the human 'felt sense.' Ultimately, Aidification reconceptualizes the AI robot as a dynamic participant in a shared intersubjective world rather than a solitary processor. By shifting the locus of cognition to the interactional field, we envision a 'symbiotic intelligence' that flourishes between humans and machines. This grounded intelligence does not merely simulate life but actively participates in the continuous co-creation of a shared reality, ensuring that the future of robotics is deeply rooted in the intersubjective fabric of human existence.},
}

@article {pmid42338645,
year = {2026},
author = {Modolon, F and N Garritano, A and Hugenholtz, P and Voolstra, CR and Keller-Costa, T and Costa, R and Thomas, T and Peixoto, RS},
title = {Resolving the evolutionary duality of marine symbionts: redefining the genus Endozoicomonas and proposing Neoendozoicomonas gen. nov.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag123},
pmid = {42338645},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Members of the bacterial family Endozoicomonadaceae are ubiquitous marine symbionts associated with diverse hosts, including corals, sponges, molluscs, and fishes. Despite their ecological pervasiveness, inhabiting hosts in deep-sea vents and sunlit coral reefs, their taxonomy remains inconsistent, largely due to reliance on 16S rRNA gene phylogenies that fail to fully resolve evolutionary relationships. Here, we integrate phylogenomics, comparative genomics, and overall genome relatedness indices across 63 high-quality genomes to re-define genus boundaries within the Endozoicomonadaceae family. Among the metrics, the core-proteome average amino acid identity proved the most robust for genus-level resolution, with a proposed identity cutoff of 76%, aligning with phylogenomic structure and maintaining taxonomic robustness across the family. Phylogenomic reconstructions further revealed that the taxon Endozoicomonas is paraphyletic, forming two well-supported but distinct clades. This prompts a taxonomic revision, dividing Endozoicomonas into Endozoicomonas sensu stricto and Neoendozoicomonas gen. nov., with Neoendozoicomonas montiporae designated as the type species. Furthermore, the sister clade to Endozoicomonas sensu stricto-comprising the genera Endonucleibacter and Sororendozoicomonas-is characterized by genomic streamlining, including reduced genome size, lower GC content, reduced number of orthogroups, and potential functional divergences consistent with host specialization. Functional annotations highlighted secretion and conjugation systems as key differentiators between genera, emphasizing potential distinct host-interaction strategies. This genome-based framework refines the taxonomy of the Endozoicomonadaceae, provides additional criteria for genus delimitation, and strengthens the evolutionary and ecological interpretation of these widespread marine bacterial symbionts.},
}

@article {pmid42338892,
year = {2026},
author = {Parajuli, BS and Teodosio, J and Ravenscraft, A},
title = {Leaffooted bugs enrich local soil with their horizontally acquired symbiont.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1737071},
pmid = {42338892},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Associations between hosts and their microbial symbionts are considered mutualistic when both partners benefit. While the advantages received by eukaryotic hosts from association with bacterial symbionts are frequently examined, benefits to the bacteria are rarely experimentally tested. Here, we consider whether the bug-Caballeronia symbiosis is truly mutualistic by measuring the effect of a leaffooted bug (Leptoglossus phyllopus) on the abundance of its horizontally acquired symbiont, Caballeronia grimmiae. We predicted that the free-living Caballeronia population would increase over time in the presence of its insect partner. We quantified Caballeronia titer in soil microcosms (i) at different bug densities, and (ii) in the presence and absence of L. phyllopus over time. As bug density increased, the soil Caballeronia population also increased. Insect presence resulted in a marginally higher Caballeronia titer over time. Additionally, Caballeronia titer tended to be higher in wetter soil, though this correlation should be verified by follow-up work. These results suggests that the relationship between Caballeronia and L. phyllopus is likely mutualistic and add to a small but growing body of literature that has quantified the effects of eukaryotic hosts on their bacterial partners.},
}

@article {pmid42339876,
year = {2026},
author = {Lubin, MB and Teixeira, DH and Belin, BJ},
title = {Characterization of chemotaxis in soybean symbiont Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0092826},
doi = {10.1128/aem.00928-26},
pmid = {42339876},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Symbiotic relationships between nitrogen-fixing soil bacteria and legumes provide nearly half of all biologically fixed nitrogen on Earth, playing a crucial role in sustainable agriculture. These relationships rely on bacterial navigation of complex, dynamic soil environments to reach their plant hosts. Central to this behavior are bacterial motility and chemotaxis, the ability to sense and move toward host-derived signals in the rhizosphere. In the soybean symbiont Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA110, motility is controlled by dual flagellar systems, and this strain contains three putative but uncharacterized chemotaxis operons (che1, che2, and che3). Using targeted deletions of all three predicted cheA genes, we show that che2 is the primary driver of chemotaxis toward soybean seed exudate in soft agar assays, and that the greater contribution of che2 vs. che1 to soft agar chemotaxis is not due to differences in CheA protein sequence. Interestingly, we also find that B. diazoefficiens mutants incapable of chemotaxis in semisolid media retain wild-type-like swimming speeds in aqueous media. These findings provide insight into how B. diazoefficiens coordinates its chemosensory systems to respond to its host plant.

IMPORTANCE: Chemotaxis is crucial for the establishment of beneficial plant-microbe associations, yet mechanistic studies of chemotaxis have been limited to a handful of bacterial models. The soybean symbiont Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA110 is a commonly used soybean inoculant with exceptional nitrogen fixation efficiency, but the genetic control of chemotaxis in B. diazoefficiens has not been examined. Establishing B. diazoefficiens as a model of chemotaxis provides an opportunity to understand how multiple chemotaxis systems coordinate root colonization in this major agricultural symbiont and can enable comparative analyses of plant-microbe recognition strategies across agricultural bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid42340022,
year = {2026},
author = {Magrath, IRK and Wong, SL and Palmer, JW and Saha, A and Luginbuehl, LH},
title = {Through the looking glass: A single-cell view of plant-microbe interactions.},
journal = {Journal of experimental botany},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jxb/erag314},
pmid = {42340022},
issn = {1460-2431},
abstract = {Plants interact with a vast variety of microbes that inhabit both above- and belowground tissues. Through their effect on host physiology and growth, plant-microbe interactions define the success of a plant's life cycle. A key aspect of these interactions is the requirement for highly cell-type-specific responses from the plant, be it to form symbiotic structures in certain cells or to mount a highly localised immune response. There has been long-standing interest in uncovering the cell-specific transcriptomic changes that underpin these processes to better understand the establishment, functioning, and regulation of plant-microbe interactions. The recent optimisation of single-cell and spatial transcriptomics for plants now allows us to investigate these interactions in unprecedented detail. Here, we discuss how single-cell technologies can help unravel the many mysteries of plant-microbe interactions. We focus on the key lessons we have learned from recent single-cell studies in the field and highlight the current limitations of single-cell technologies. We also offer promising avenues for future exploration and conclude by suggesting experimental and bioinformatic considerations to maximise insights from past and future studies and help make the most of this new single-cell era in the field of plant-microbe interactions.},
}

@article {pmid42340486,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Y and Sheng, S and Lu, B and Hu, J and Xu, K and Shen, J and Tang, S and Qian, J},
title = {MAPK signaling pathway and rhizosphere modulation: mechanisms of arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis in enhancing Phragmites communis tolerance to triclocarban stress.},
journal = {Mycorrhiza},
volume = {36},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {42340486},
issn = {1432-1890},
support = {No. 51779078//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No. JNHB-012//the Six Talent Peaks Project in Jiangsu Province/ ; No. 2017ZX07204003//the National Major Projects of Water Pollution Control and Management Technology/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology/drug effects ; *Rhizosphere ; *Symbiosis ; *Poaceae/microbiology/physiology/drug effects ; *Carbanilides ; *MAP Kinase Signaling System ; Plant Roots/microbiology ; *Soil Pollutants ; },
abstract = {With escalating global health challenges, triclocarban (TCC) contamination has reemerged as a critical ecological threat, especially in wetland ecosystems. Yet, the mechanisms by which arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) regulate plant root resistance and the rhizosphere environment under TCC exposure remain poorly understood. Here, we established an AMF-Phragmites communis symbiotic system and conducted TCC exposure experiments. Our results demonstrated that TCC exposure significantly inhibited mycorrhizal colonization, root morphology, and the antioxidant system of P. communis. Specifically, under the 5 mg kg[- 1] soil TCC exposure, arbuscule abundance decreased by 3.53-fold, root total length declined to 1011.13 cm, and the integrated biomarker response index value of the antioxidant system dropped to 0.25. In contrast, arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis promoted root morphological and physiological growth. Transcriptome analysis revealed that AM symbiosis upregulated genes encoding key enzymes in the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway (e.g., MAPKKK and MAPK family members), whereas TCC exposure downregulated their expressions. Furthermore, in the rhizosphere soil, the composition and structure of microbial communities were distinctly influenced by AM symbiosis and TCC exposure. Compared to AM symbiosis, which upregulated soil metabolites associated with metabolism, TCC exposure downregulated soil metabolites across multiple functional categories, including metabolism, environmental information processing, and cellular processes. This research broadens our understanding of how AM symbiosis enhances the resistance of P. communis and maintains the stability of the rhizosphere environment under TCC exposure, and evidences the potential of AMF application in improving the purification capacity of wetland systems.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology/drug effects
*Rhizosphere
*Symbiosis
*Poaceae/microbiology/physiology/drug effects
*Carbanilides
*MAP Kinase Signaling System
Plant Roots/microbiology
*Soil Pollutants

@article {pmid42340763,
year = {2026},
author = {Barbieri, C and De Leo, A and Violante, MG and Pagani, K and Cassano, A and Rocca, G and Bosco, C and Grattagliano, I and Risola, R and Di Vella, G},
title = {Living with the Dead: Mad or Bad? Five paradigmatic cases of unprocessed grief.},
journal = {La Clinica terapeutica},
volume = {177},
number = {4},
pages = {663-667},
doi = {10.7417/CT.2026.2056},
pmid = {42340763},
issn = {1972-6007},
mesh = {Humans ; *Grief ; Female ; Male ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {The death of a loved one is an event with the highest imbalance for all individuals. Although it is typically a painful but normal process, in specific vulnerable subjects, it may evolve into maladaptive trajectories, culminating in extreme behaviors that became the objective of interdisciplinary studies. This paper analyzed five cases focused on the continuation of cohabitation between survivors and corpse. This unconventional behavior draws its origins from the co-presence of three pathological elements: psychiatric disorders, fragile personality structures, and dysfunctional family systems. In these cases, death did not create a symbolic rupture, but rather a symbiotic irrational relationship between the surviving and deceased ones. The surviving family members were estranged from the real world and continued to live, and the deceased were still psychologically alive. These cases shared similar defensive dynamics and relational histories. The data analyzed reveal common patterns: symbiotic relationship with the original family, lack of self-expression, ambivalence in interpersonal relationships, distrust toward outsiders, and progressive withdrawal from reality. These factors prevent the grieving process, with the consequence of the realization of the phenomenon defined as "living with the dead", characterized by the simultaneous presence of denial, identification of the deceased, and dissociation mechanisms. The preservation of the body was by a complex interplay of emotional dependency and inability to tolerate separation, aggravated by the domestic context marked by social marginalization, as the close setting in which pathological grief crystallized. These cases occupy a specific and problematic relation between psychopathology, deviant behavior, and possible criminal liability. The prolonged cohabitation with a corpse brings up serious legal and public health questions, and it's essential to carefully consider the person's mental state, their intention, and how responsible they are for their action. The authors suggest the essential methodological insights to understand grief processing patterns that serve as a bridge between psychopathology, deviance, and criminal behavior.},
}

Humans
*Grief
Female
Male
Adult
Middle Aged

@article {pmid42341036,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Wang, H and Lin, C and Wang, X},
title = {Chemical ecology and convergent evolution of natural hallucinogens: From ecological defense to conserved neural targets.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {123},
number = {26},
pages = {e2535785123},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2535785123},
pmid = {42341036},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {82550005 W2512066//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2021ZD0203000(2021ZD0203003)//Brain Science and Brain-like Intelligence Technology-National Science and Technology Major Project/ ; 029GJHZ2024057GC//International Partnership Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {*Hallucinogens/chemistry/metabolism/pharmacology ; Animals ; Humans ; *Biological Evolution ; Psilocybin/chemistry/metabolism ; Mescaline/chemistry/metabolism ; Plants/metabolism ; Evolution, Molecular ; Ecology ; },
abstract = {Natural hallucinogenic compounds have arisen independently across plants, fungi, and animals, evolving into a diverse chemical arsenal that includes phenethylamines, indolealkylamines, and terpenoid scaffolds. Beyond clinical and cultural frameworks, their ecological origins and evolutionary trajectories may help explain why such potent modulators of perception, emotion, and cognition persist in nature. Here, integrating chemical ecology, comparative genomics, biosynthetic logic, and evolutionary biology, we propose that these molecules may function as defensive agents or symbiosis-associated manipulators of herbivore and pollinator behavior. A "building-block" biosynthetic logic links primary metabolism to convergent psychotropic scaffolds via a recurrent set of tailoring reactions, including decarboxylations and methylations. Recent advances illuminate mescaline biosynthesis in cacti, horizontal gene transfer of psilocybin clusters in fungi, and symbiont-derived alkaloids in grasses. We also assess the debate surrounding endogenous mammalian tryptamines, arguing that the leading hypothesis points toward sigma-1 receptor-mediated cytoprotection and stress responses, supported by convergent pharmacological and cellular evidence, rather than inherent hallucinogenic functions. Across kingdoms, natural hallucinogens appear to converge on conserved neural targets, including serotonergic and other neuromodulatory systems that are shared across phyla. From this perspective, human psychoactivity is likely an evolutionary by-product of molecules selected for ecological interactions with animals possessing deeply conserved receptor architectures. Framing hallucinogens through chemical ecology not only clarifies their origins but also highlights translational opportunities in target discovery, pathway engineering, and sustainable production, while emphasizing the need to integrate conservation, ethical sourcing, and benefit-sharing into the current hallucinogenic renaissance.},
}

*Hallucinogens/chemistry/metabolism/pharmacology
Animals
Humans
*Biological Evolution
Psilocybin/chemistry/metabolism
Mescaline/chemistry/metabolism
Plants/metabolism
Evolution, Molecular
Ecology

@article {pmid42341171,
year = {2026},
author = {Kalil, A and Tiwari, M and Han, L and Nagalla, S and Li, W and Irving, T and Binder, A and Venkateshwaran, M and Maeda, J and Delaux, PM and Mysore, KS and Wen, J and Parniske, M and Imaizumi-Anraku, H and Otegui, MS and Ané, JM},
title = {NUP107-160 nuclear pore sub-complex members determine symbiotic ion channel localization in legumes.},
journal = {Plant physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/plphys/kiag415},
pmid = {42341171},
issn = {1532-2548},
abstract = {The nuclear pore complex controls the movement of proteins into and out of the nucleus, allowing cells to regulate protein localization and abundance. This process influences how organisms respond to environmental stimuli. Components of the nuclear pore complex, including the NUP107-160 sub-complex, NUP133, NUP85, and NENA, are required for root nodulation and arbuscular mycorrhization in Lotus japonicus. However, the specific role of these nucleoporins in symbiotic signaling was poorly understood. Through reverse genetics, we discovered that NUP133 is also required for symbiosis in Medicago truncatula, although the mutant phenotypes were less pronounced than in Lotus. Overexpression of the symbiotic ion channels Medicago DMI1 and Lotus Castor and Pollux in the Lotus Ljnup133, Ljnup85, and Ljnena mutants partially alleviated the nodulation defects. Notably, in NUP107-160 sub-complex mutants of Lotus and Medicago, the accumulation of GFP-labeled Pollux and DMI1 on the inner nuclear membrane was reduced, indicating the NUP107-160 sub-complex plays a key role in regulating the distribution of DMI1 and Pollux on the nuclear envelope. This highlights the extreme sensitivity of nodulation in Lotus to changes in the abundance of Pollux on the inner nuclear membrane. In contrast, Medicago appears to exhibit greater tolerance to alterations in the distribution of DMI1 on the nuclear envelope.},
}

@article {pmid42341891,
year = {2026},
author = {Kong, T and Tang, Z and Liu, H and Tran, NT},
title = {Trichlorfon induces hemolymph dysbiosis, oxidative stress, and immune response in Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis).},
journal = {Developmental and comparative immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105665},
doi = {10.1016/j.dci.2026.105665},
pmid = {42341891},
issn = {1879-0089},
abstract = {Symbiotic relationship between a host and its microbiota is fundamental to health but is vulnerable to chemical stressors. The impact of the pesticide (including trichlorfon) on the microbiota in hemolymph and its interaction with the immune processes of crustaceans remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of trichlorfon exposure on changes in the hemolymph microbiota, antioxidant defenses, and immune response in the Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis). The results revealed that trichlorfon exposure altered the microbiota in a dose-dependent manner. High-dose exposure enriched potentially beneficial microbiota communities (e.g., Firmicutes and Actinobacteriota) and increased microbial species richness. Conversely, low-dose exposure selectively promoted pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Vibrio and Malaciobacter), increasing the risk of disease in crabs. Concurrently, trichlorfon disrupted crab physiology, inducing oxidative stress (elevated SOD and suppressed CAT) and suppressing the expression of antimicrobial peptide and proinflammatory cytokine genes. Correlation analysis further associated specific bacterial genera (e.g., Actinomyces, Malaciobacter, and Acidovorax) with oxidative stress markers, while others (Tahibacter, Sphingobium, and Flavobacterium) were associated with immune gene expression. Collectively, these findings confirmed the role of the hemolymph microbiota as an important component in the physiological effect of trichlorfon on crab health.},
}

@article {pmid42332311,
year = {2026},
author = {Cai, P and Xiong, Y and Wang, W and Du, X and Lu, C and Li, Y and Li, Q and Hong, Y},
title = {Foliar Application of Bacillus thuringiensis Regulates Soil Physicochemical Properties and Microbial Ecological Functions in Tea Plantations.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00248-026-02813-3},
pmid = {42332311},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {JZ240071, JAT241155//Fujian Province Young and Middle-Aged Research and Education Projects/ ; 2025N0013, 2025FJSYCXM03//Project of Fujian Provincial Department of Science and Technology/ ; YJ202307, YJ202432, YJ202433//Wuyi University Talent Introduction Project/ ; N2023Z005, N2023Z007, N2024Z009, N2025K019//Nanping Academy of Resource Industrialization Chemistry Project/ ; },
abstract = {Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is widely employed as a biological control agent against pests in tea plantations, yet its impacts on soil health and microbial ecology remain insufficiently understood. This study investigated the effects of two Bt application regimes, namely moderate-frequency conventional Bt application (Bt1, 3 sprays over 21 days) and high-frequency intensive Bt application (Bt2, 6 sprays over 42 days), on soil physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, and microbial community structure and function in tea soils. The moderate-frequency conventional Bt1 significantly improved soil nutrient status by increasing organic matter, available nitrogen, and potassium, and boosted acid protease, sucrase, and cellulase activities, while Bt2 achieved the maximum urease and polyphenol oxidase activities but failed to promote soil available nutrients and organic matter as effectively as Bt1. Although neither Bt treatment induced notable shifts in overall microbial alpha-diversity indices, community composition differed distinctly between the two treatments. Bt1 enriched beneficial taxa related to nitrogen fixation and organic matter degradation including Pseudomonas, Bradyrhizobium, and Sphingomonas, and sharply suppressed pathogenic fungi such as Aspergillus and Curvularia, whereas Bt2 caused an 18.29% reduction in Sphingomonas abundance with limited enrichment of beneficial bacteria. Functional predictions indicated that Bt1 amplified microbial carbon degradation and nitrogen cycling, enriched saprotrophic and symbiotic fungi and reduced plant pathogens by 85.78%, while both Bt treatments elevated saprotrophic fungi yet Bt2 only reduced pathogens by 11.84%. Co-occurrence network analyses revealed enhanced microbial interactions and community stability under Bt1, while excessive high-frequency Bt2 reduced network connectivity and stability compared with CK and Bt1. These results suggest that moderate-frequency conventional Bt application can positively modulate soil microbial communities and ecosystem functions, providing valuable insights for sustainable pest management and soil health maintenance in tea agroecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid42323568,
year = {2026},
author = {Alves, CPP and Pinto, OHB and Pappas, GJ and Mota, SS and Rahlff, J and Krüger, RH},
title = {Taxonomic and functional diversity of the microbiome associated with the freshwater sponge Metania sp. (Haplosclerida: Metaniidae) from the Brazilian Cerrado, a metagenomic approach.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42323568},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {Animals ; Brazil ; *Porifera/microbiology ; *Microbiota/genetics ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Fresh Water/microbiology ; *Archaea/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Symbiosis ; Phylogeny ; Metagenome ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Biodiversity ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sponges, the oldest metazoans on the planet, have an evolutionary history shaped by symbiotic associations with microorganisms. Although well studied in marine sponges, these associations are poorly understood in freshwater species. This study explored the taxonomic diversity and functional potential of the microbiome of the freshwater sponge Metania sp. and its distinction from the surrounding water, using a metagenomic approach. The samples were collected in the Brazilian Cerrado.

RESULTS: Taxonomic assignment identified 17 phyla, including bacterial and archaeal, with 19 sequence variants successfully assigned to the species level. Bacteria comprised 16 phyla, with a predominance of Pseudomonadota, Actinomycetota, and Bacteroidota in both microbiomes. The sponge microbiome is distinct from the water microbiome (PERMANOVA; F = 21.6, p = 0.04), sharing only 27% of the identified taxa. Functional prediction resulted in 7,201 KEGG Orthologs (KOs), assigned to 117 significantly enriched metabolic pathways. Although 95 pathways are shared, differential abundance analysis identified 1,024 KOs more abundant in the sponge microbiome and 1,275 in the water. The presence of bacterial defense systems such as CRISPR-Cas in the sponge microbiome suggests a crucial role in protecting against phages while maintaining symbiosis. In contrast, the water microbiota is enriched with pathways linked to environmental adaptation, such as secondary metabolite biosynthesis and pollutant degradation. Although the water microbiome harbored 1.3 times more biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), the sponge microbiome also demonstrated biotechnological potential for producing secondary metabolites, especially antimicrobial.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings demonstrate that the freshwater sponge Metania sp. hosts a complex and functionally specialized microbial community that plays fundamental roles in adaptation, nutrition, and defense, highlighting the critical importance of symbiotic associations for the host.},
}

Animals
Brazil
*Porifera/microbiology
*Microbiota/genetics
*Metagenomics/methods
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Fresh Water/microbiology
*Archaea/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Symbiosis
Phylogeny
Metagenome
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Biodiversity
Sequence Analysis, DNA

@article {pmid42324605,
year = {2026},
author = {Yin, C and Magne, K and Berrabah, F and Monachello, D and Bernal, G and Mysore, KS and Wen, J and Etchebest, C and Ratet, P and Gruber, V},
title = {MtGRF8 interacts with MtSymCRK and prevents early bacteroid death during Medicago - Sinorhizobium symbiosis.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71343},
pmid = {42324605},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {DBI0703285//National Science Foundation/ ; IOS-1127155//National Science Foundation/ ; ANR-18-IDEX-0001//IdEX Universite de Paris/ ; ANR-11-IDEX-0003-02//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; 202008410235//China Scholarship Council PhD Scholarship/ ; ANR-10-LABX-0040-SPS//LabEx Saclay Plant Sciences/ ; ANR-17-EUR-0007//LabEx Saclay Plant Sciences/ ; EUR SPS-GSR//LabEx Saclay Plant Sciences/ ; },
abstract = {In Medicago littoralis R-108, Symbiotic CYSTEINE-RICH RECEPTOR-LIKE KINASE (MtSymCRK) is required to prevent defense reactions in symbiotic nodules during chronic infection. MtSymCRK represents a key legume symbiotic gene controlling nodule immunity and early bacteroid survival, but its mode of action in the cell signaling remains poorly understood. This study investigated proteins interacting with MtSymCRK by screening an Arabidopsis thaliana open reading frame (ORF) library using yeast-two-hybrid followed by translational genetics towards R-108. Finally, we conducted a reverse genetic approach in R-108 using Transposon of Nicotiana tabacum 1 (Tnt1) insertional mutants. We identified a 14-3-3 protein, AtGENERAL REGULATORY FACTOR 8 (AtGRF8) interacting with MtSymCRK kinase domain (MtSymCRK[KIN]) and confirmed the interaction between MtSymCRK[KIN] and MtGRF8, the closest homolog of AtGRF8 in R-108. Moreover, other members of the 14-3-3 family interact with MtSymCRK[KIN] but with a lower affinity than MtGRF8. We also demonstrated that the corresponding Tnt1 mutant line Mtgrf8 displays symbiotic dysfunctions in defense and senescence responses, resulting in a reduction of bacteroid differentiation. These dysfunctions compromise the intracellular survival of the rhizobia, thereby impairing the nitrogen fixation of rhizobia. Our findings show that MtGRF8 and MtSymCRK are required for effective functioning of symbiosis and prevention of bacteroid death.},
}

@article {pmid42324709,
year = {2026},
author = {Biró, JB and Péter, C and Domonkos, Á and Hegedűs, Z and Lakatos, L and Rana, D and Gyula, P and Silhavy, D and Kaló, P},
title = {Nonsense-Mediated Decay mRNA Quality Control System Is Essential for Root Development and Efficient Root Nodule Symbiosis in Medicago truncatula.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70683},
pmid = {42324709},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {K136513//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; K139349//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; K150440//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; FK137811//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; 454004//HUN-REN Biological Research Centre/ ; //Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences/ ; 1917 1K264//Ministry of Innovation and Technology, Hungary/ ; },
}

@article {pmid42325034,
year = {2026},
author = {Parikh, M and Bhagat, P and Sutaria, AH and Bharwad, S and Vaja, H and Banker, A and Shah, K and Goswami, HM},
title = {A structured, mentored experiential clinical research programme for undergraduate students.},
journal = {The National medical journal of India},
volume = {39},
number = {4},
pages = {253-256},
doi = {10.25259/NMJI_385_2024},
pmid = {42325034},
issn = {2583-150X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Education, Medical, Undergraduate/methods ; *Mentors ; India ; *Biomedical Research/education ; Curriculum ; *Students, Medical ; *Mentoring/methods ; *Problem-Based Learning/methods ; Program Evaluation ; },
abstract = {Background Introduction to medical research early in the undergraduate years contributes to building a robust foundation for students in their medical education. In India, due to the lack of a structured curriculum incorporating research in medical under-graduation, a window opens for many unsuitable practices - predatory journals, unguided exposure to research, no checkpoint for unethical practices and reduced productivity of the student and the system alike and during the course of study, undergraduates tend to prioritize only their core subjects, with research not being acknowledged. Thus, practical applications to encourage early involvement in research during the initial stages need to be provided. Further, mentoring is a key element in professional growth, and functional mentoring is a pragmatic approach that produces measurable outcomes across several levels. Methods We designed a programme that incorporates a tangible outcome, using a functional mentorship model and experiential learning. We further evaluated the implementation of a structured, mentored clinical research programme targeting the undergraduate medical students at the institute. Results We present our experience with the first batch of this 4 month mentorship programme using the context, input, process and product model of evaluation. Conclusion Through this programme, we could create a drive for productive, ethical research at a grass root level and help students appreciate the symbiotic relationship between research and clinical care.},
}

Humans
*Education, Medical, Undergraduate/methods
*Mentors
India
*Biomedical Research/education
Curriculum
*Students, Medical
*Mentoring/methods
*Problem-Based Learning/methods
Program Evaluation

@article {pmid42325907,
year = {2026},
author = {Hua, Z and Li, L and Chen, Y and Cao, Y and Liu, W and Teng, X and Zhou, J and Zhao, Y and Yuan, Y},
title = {Chromosome-level genome assembly and population genomics unveil strigolactone-regulated growth adaptation in the mycoheterotrophic orchid Gastrodia elata.},
journal = {Horticulture research},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {uhag099},
pmid = {42325907},
issn = {2662-6810},
abstract = {Mycoheterotrophic plants rely entirely on fungal symbionts for nutrients, yet the role of intraspecific genomic variation in shaping symbiotic adaptation remains unclear. Gastrodia elata is a mycoheterotrophic orchid with multiple cultivated varieties. Here, we generated a chromosome-level genome of G. elata Bl. f. glauca. Comparative genomic analyses with published G. elata assemblies revealed extensive intraspecific variation, characterized by transposon-mediated inversions occurring in 26% of syntenic regions. Notably, these regions frequently harbored orphan genes. Population genomic analysis of 150 individuals identified three genetically distinct clades: two cultivated (Clades E and G) and one hybrid (Clade I). Transcriptomic profiling uncovered clade-specific expression patterns in symbiosis-related genes, particularly within strigolactone signaling pathways. Molecular dynamics simulations and protein interaction assays demonstrated that polymorphisms in the M domain of the suppressor protein DWARF53 (GeD53) modulate strigolactone signaling by altering the stability of its interaction with the receptor (GeD14). Specifically, a Clade G-specific haplotype enhanced signaling through stabilized protein interactions, thereby influencing tuber development genes, whereas GeD14 variants had minimal functional impact. Further co-expression networks identified LOL5, RNP1, and MTHD as downstream effectors correlating with clade-specific tuber phenotypes and carbohydrate allocation. These findings demonstrate how intraspecific variation in strigolactone signaling components drives functional divergence in G. elata, providing both mechanistic insights into mycoheterotrophic adaptation and genomic resources for future research.},
}

@article {pmid42328075,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, X and Xie, Y and Lu, Y and Hu, X and Xu, W and Pan, S and Xue, Y},
title = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobium facilitate nitrogen uptake and transfer in soybean/tobacco intercropping system.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1842437},
pmid = {42328075},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The tripartite symbiosis of legume-AMF-rhizobia is widely considered to facilitate nitrogen (N) uptakeby legumes, but its effect on non-legume plants in intercropping systems remains unclear.

METHODS: A pot experiment with three root separations (PS, MS, NS) was conducted using ¹⁵N isotope tracing in a soybean/tobacco intercropping system with double inoculation of Claroideoglomus etunicatum (CE) and Bradyrhizobium japonicum 5016 (BJ).

RESULTS: Double inoculation (CE+BJ) significantly increased bioaccumulation, N uptake, and N transfer from soybean to tobacco compared to single or no inoculation. Mycorrhizal colonization in soybean increased by up to 45.55% in the NS system. All measured parameters in tobacco were significantly higher in NS than in PS or MS systems.

DISCUSSION: The legume-AMF-rhizobium triple interaction positively affects N uptake and translocation in tobacco, showing potential for sustainable tobacco production, though the underlying mechanisms require further study.},
}

@article {pmid42328146,
year = {2026},
author = {Andressa, I and Neves, NA and do Nascimento, GKS and Dos Santos, TM and Teotônio, DO and Rodrigues, SM and Costa Sobrinho, PS and Rocha, LOF and Leite Junior, BRC and Benassi, VM and Schmiele, M},
title = {Production of symbiotic non-dairy beverage fermented by Lactobacillus sp. using a water-soluble extract from sprouted purple creole corn and xylo-oligosaccharides from corncobs.},
journal = {Journal of food science and technology},
volume = {63},
number = {7},
pages = {1389-1402},
pmid = {42328146},
issn = {0022-1155},
abstract = {This study aimed to develop beverages based on germinated purple pericarp creole corn (PPCC), with the addition of xylooligosaccharides (XOS) extracted from corn cobs, combined with Lactobacillus sp. probiotics. Xylan was first extracted from the corn cobs, followed by enzymatic hydrolysis to obtain XOS using a xylanolytic cocktail produced by the filamentous fungus Fusarium spp. E.A. 1.3.1. The XOS production yielded a satisfactory amount (~ 56%) and was free of monomeric sugars (xylose or glucose). The addition of XOS and sucrose positively influenced the reduction of macroscopic sedimentation in the beverages (P < 0.05) during the storage period (7 °C/28 days). All experiments consistently showed viable cell counts exceeding 10[8] CFU·mL[-1] throughout the entire storage period. Moreover, beverages with sucrose supplementation achieved an XOS concentration above 2.5 g per serving (200 mL), as determined by high-performance anion-exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection (HPAE-PAD). Thus, the products from all trials exhibit functional potential due to the probiotic microorganism counts and the synergistic effects of the Lactobacillus sp. and XOS combination. Developing beverages based on germinated PPCC with added XOS extracted from corn cobs presents a promising solution to address existing market gaps, while also emphasizing the role of creole seeds in agrobiodiversity.},
}

@article {pmid42328654,
year = {2026},
author = {She, M and Sun, X and Tan, Z},
title = {Polygonatum sibiricum combined with Poria cocos prevents spleen deficiency constipation via the gut microbiota-mediated brain-gut axis.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1793441},
pmid = {42328654},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The study evaluates the preventive effects of Polygonatum sibiricum and Poria cocos (3:1) on spleen deficiency constipation in mice, focusing on the brain-gut axis, gut microbiota, and oxidative stress. The findings aim to inform the prevention and treatment of this condition.

METHODS: Thirty male specific pathogen-free (SPF) KM mice (4 weeks old, 20 ± 2 g) were randomized into a normal control group (NC), a model group (NM), and a Polygonatum sibiricum and Poria cocos group (HF). Serum levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), cholecystokinin (CCK), motilin (MTL), and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) were measured by ELISA. Liver superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were measured by a spectrophotometer. Gut microbiota was analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing.

RESULTS: Compared to NM, the HF showed significantly increased 5-HT, CCK(p < 0.05), and MTL (p < 0.001), and significantly decreased VIP(p < 0.05). Liver MDA content was markedly higher in NM than in NC(p < 0.01), with a downward trend in HF. Conversely, the liver SOD activity in NM was significantly lower than in NC(p < 0.001), and the HF displayed an upward trend. Microbiota analysis revealed higher diversity in HF, as indicated by higher chao1, pielou_e, shannon, and simpson indices. The gut microbiota species composition in the HF was dominated by beneficial bacteria such as Bacteroidota and Faecalibaculum, with a reduction in pathogenic bacteria such as Proteobacteria and Escherichia-Shigella. The characteristic gut microbiota of the NM was enriched in Escherichia-Shigella and its conditional pathogens, while the characteristic gut microbiota of the HF was enriched in beneficial symbiotic bacteria such as Akkermansia, Blautia, and Bifidobacterium. The metabolic pathways and the genetic information processing pathway were improved in the HF, and the DNA repair and recombination protein pathways were also repaired.

CONCLUSION: The P. sibiricum and P. cocos combination effectively prevents spleen deficiency constipation, an effect associated with the brain-gut axis and gut microbiota. The observed trends in oxidative stress markers warrant further investigation.},
}

@article {pmid42329470,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, X and Cooksley, CM and Awad, M and Barry, EF and Psaltis, AJ and Wormald, PJ and Vreugde, S},
title = {Reciprocal adaptation is critical in enhancing S. aureus and P. aeruginosa biofilm biomass.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {42329470},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/growth & development/isolation & purification ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/growth & development/isolation & purification ; Humans ; Rhinosinusitis/microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Coculture Techniques ; Biomass ; Adaptation, Physiological ; Amikacin/pharmacology ; Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Polymicrobial communities impose a great challenge for clinical management of chronic infections. It is a consensus now that microbes exist as aggregated colonies shielded within polymeric matrix. Within this matrix more than one bacterial species can exist either in symbiotic or rival relationships. Herein, we investigated the host-specific interspecies interactions between Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The indirect interaction between the two species was assessed using Transwell co-culture chambers, where S. aureus and P. aeruginosa (n = 3 each) derived from CRS patients were cultured in separate chambers that allowed exchange of soluble factors. Later the biofilm biomass of each species was evaluated and compared to single species biofilm. Further, the influence of the co-culture conditions on antibiotic tolerance was evaluated. When derived from the same patient, co-cultured bacteria increased the biofilm biomass of each other significantly by 3.0-4.9 fold (p < 0.01) and exhibited higher tolerance to amikacin compared to co-cultures of isolates from two different patients and monocultured biofilms. Moreover, the incubation of one bacterial protein-enriched secreted fractions (PESF) with alternative species form same patient significantly increased biomass by 1.5-4.8 fold (p < 0.01), while similar trend was not observed among randomly cultured species. These data underscore the synergistic growth pattern between different bacterial species growing in the same niche and highlight the importance of further studies to aid the selection of antibiotics targeting polymicrobial biofilms.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/growth & development/isolation & purification
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/growth & development/isolation & purification
Humans
Rhinosinusitis/microbiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Coculture Techniques
Biomass
Adaptation, Physiological
Amikacin/pharmacology
Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology

@article {pmid42330866,
year = {2026},
author = {Vellani, V and Munari, M and Bacchini, SD and D'Aniello, I and Torre, CD and Matozzo, V and Nannini, M and Signorini, SG and Tamburello, L and Musco, L},
title = {Marine heatwaves outweigh microplastic exposure in driving physiological changes in the coral Astroides calycularis.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {232},
number = {},
pages = {120037},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120037},
pmid = {42330866},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {Global climate change and anthropogenic pollution are major threats to marine ecosystems, with heatwaves and microplastics posing a particular risk to corals. The combined effects of these stressors are still poorly understood, especially for non-symbiotic species like the Mediterranean coral Astroides calycularis. In this study, the combined effects of a simulated heatwave (HW) and microplastics (MPs) on physiological (respiration and excretion rates) and biochemical responses (oxidative stress and energy metabolism biomarkers) of this coral were studied for the first time. Colonies were exposed for four weeks to four conditions: control (26 °C), HW (29 °C), MPs, and a combination of both. Results show that the HW was the primary driver of change, significantly increasing respiration and excretion rates and modulating the antioxidant system. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity increased, while catalase (CAT) and glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) decreased. This indicates a strong metabolic and antioxidant response to thermal stress. In contrast, MPs had only a minor physiological effect on respiration and did not induce a significant biochemical stress response. No significant interaction was detected between the two stressors, suggesting they act independently. Our findings highlight the vulnerability of A. calycularis to thermal stress and underscore the need to study multiple stressors to better understand coral resilience in a changing ocean.},
}

@article {pmid42330923,
year = {2026},
author = {Hansson, EM and Brockhurst, MA},
title = {Symbiosis: Mutualism on the move.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {36},
number = {12},
pages = {R693-R695},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2026.04.013},
pmid = {42330923},
issn = {1879-0445},
abstract = {Symbiosis underlies the evolution of complex life and the function of ecosystems worldwide, yet the origins of symbioses are poorly understood. A new study reveals how symbiotic bacteria are created by horizontal gene transfer.},
}

@article {pmid42331038,
year = {2026},
author = {Lei, Y and Liu, Z and Chen, Q and Wu, X and Li, M and Liu, F and Liu, Y and Yin, Z and Zhao, S and Shen, P and Zhao, Y and Lamlom, SF and Ren, H and Yan, L and Zhao, H},
title = {The GmCYCLOPS paralogs regulate soybean nodulation and exhibit signatures during domestication.},
journal = {Plant science : an international journal of experimental plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {113287},
doi = {10.1016/j.plantsci.2026.113287},
pmid = {42331038},
issn = {1873-2259},
abstract = {CYCLOPS functions as a central regulator in legume-rhizobia symbiosis, but its role in cultivated soybean remains incompletely characterized. Through homology-based sequence analysis using Lotus japonicus LjCYCLOPS as a query, two soybean orthologs were identified, GmCYCLOPS1 and GmCYCLOPS2, sharing 98.1% amino acid identity. Both genes exhibited root- and nodule-enriched expression, with peak induction at 12hours post-rhizobial inoculation. Subcellular localization assays showed that both GmCYCLOPS1 and GmCYCLOPS2 proteins are enriched in the nucleus but also present in the cytoplasm. Functional analyses using Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated hairy root transformation demonstrated that RNA interference targeting either paralog reduced expression of both genes and significantly decreased nodulation. Consistently, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated disruption of both GmCYCLOPS1 and GmCYCLOPS2 generated double mutants with severe nodulation defects, whereas overexpression of these paralogs enhanced nodule formation. Population genomic analysis of 1,504 accessions (34 wild, 423 landraces, and 1,047 cultivars) revealed that the GmCYCLOPS1 haplotype Hap10, absent in wild accessions, increased to 91% in landraces and 99% in cultivars, showing strong selection signatures and enrichment in Northeast China. Meanwhile, GmCYCLOPS2 exhibited more moderate and regionally structured haplotype diversity. Together, these results reveal that GmCYCLOPS1 and GmCYCLOPS2 act as core regulators of soybean nodulation and have undergone divergent selection and geographic differentiation during soybean domestication. This study characterizes the functional and evolutionary features of the GmCYCLOPS paralogs, providing valuable gene and haplotype resources to improve soybean nodulation traits.},
}

@article {pmid42322129,
year = {2026},
author = {Usui, T and Yu, J and Frederickson, ME},
title = {For colonization success, should hosts and microbes travel alone, together, or swap partners along the way?.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71372},
pmid = {42322129},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; GBM10635//Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation/ ; GBMF9536//Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation/ ; //University of Toronto/ ; },
abstract = {Microbiomes that enhance the performance of host plants are likely to be co-introduced with their host during colonization because of their intimate association. Yet, it is unclear how co-introduced microbes will impact host colonization, as both the microbiome and its effects could vary upon introduction into a new habitat. Using the duckweed Lemna japonica - a cosmopolitan, freshwater angiosperm - and its microbiome, we tracked the colonization of both plants and microbes during an experimental co-introduction in the wild. We tested how plant performance varied during colonization when plants were co-introduced with microbes from their home habitat or with microbes local to the introduced habitat. We found that plant performance was substantially reduced when plants were co-introduced with microbes from their home habitat (i.e. with microbes that are non-local to the introduced habitat), relative to hosts with a local microbiome. Moreover, negative impacts from the initial, non-local microbiome persisted for multiple host generations despite a rapid turnover in microbiome composition. Our results suggest that the initial microbiome plants are co-introduced and can leave lasting impacts on plant performance during colonization. Considering the identity of the co-introduced microbiome will therefore be critical to predicting plant colonization dynamics in an era of global change.},
}

@article {pmid42322537,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohan, VK and Joshi, S and Joshi, SR},
title = {Synergistic effect of Rhizophagus irregularis and its associated bacteria on the growth of maize and Khasi mandarin.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {42322537},
issn = {1573-0972},
support = {BT/PR40089/NER/951663/2020)//Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; MBMA/SLM/R&D/108/2025/C-8/44//Meghalaya Basin Development Agency/ ; },
mesh = {*Zea mays/microbiology/growth & development ; *Bacteria/isolation & purification/classification/genetics/metabolism ; Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development ; Soil Microbiology ; Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Citrus/microbiology/growth & development ; Indoleacetic Acids/metabolism ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; Symbiosis ; Phylogeny ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; Rhizosphere ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Fungi ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form symbiotic associations with plant roots and play a significant role in improving plant nutrition and growth. To enrich and propagate the indigenous arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities associated with Khasi mandarin (Citrus reticulata), trap cultures were established using field-collected rhizospheric soil and root fragments. Rhizophagus irregularis was isolated from the trap culture and identified by amplifying the SSU region of 18 S rDNA. Bacterial isolates associated with AMF spores have been isolated from both the outer and inner spore surfaces. The isolates were identified by amplifying and sequencing the 16 S rDNA region. All bacterial isolates were tested for their plant growth-promoting properties, such as phosphate solubilization, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, siderophore production, and extracellular enzyme activity. The findings revealed major functional differences between bacteria on the spore surface and those found inside the spores. Selected promising isolates were then tested for their capacity to promote plant growth in maize and Khasi mandarin under controlled conditions. Plants treated with AMF and selected bacterial isolates exhibited significantly improved growth characteristics compared with untreated controls.},
}

*Zea mays/microbiology/growth & development
*Bacteria/isolation & purification/classification/genetics/metabolism
Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development
Soil Microbiology
Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Citrus/microbiology/growth & development
Indoleacetic Acids/metabolism
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
DNA, Ribosomal/genetics
Symbiosis
Phylogeny
DNA, Bacterial/genetics
Rhizosphere
Sequence Analysis, DNA
Fungi

@article {pmid42323540,
year = {2026},
author = {Yaseen, U and Nurbaity, A and Fitriatin, BN and Simarmata, T and Sujudi, IH and Ahmad, F and Safitri, A},
title = {Synergistic effects of organic amendments and dual microbial inoculation on morphophysiological traits, nutrient uptake, and microbial symbiosis of black soybean (Glycine max) in Inceptisol.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12870-026-09244-9},
pmid = {42323540},
issn = {1471-2229},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sustainable intensification of soybean production requires strategies that simultaneously enhance plant growth, nutrient acquisition, and microbial symbiosis, particularly in nutrient-limited soils.

METHODS: This experiment investigated the combined effects of organic amendments (Biochar, Vermicompost) and microbial biofertilizers [encapsulated Rhizobium and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF)] on the morphophysiological performance of black soybean (Glycine max).

RESULTS: All treatments, the integration of Vermicompost and Biochar with dual inoculation (encapsulated Rhizobium + AMF) consistently produced the most pronounced improvements. Leaf area index and height-diameter ratio were significantly enhanced from 21 days after planting onward, with the strongest canopy expansion and structural growth observed at 28 days. Biomass of shoots and roots production was maximized under Biochar + dual inoculation, surpassing all other treatments. Phosphorus uptake was significantly elevated, and AMF root colonization reached 80%, the highest across treatments. This treatment also supported the greatest nitrogen-fixing bacterial population (7.63 × 105 CFU g⁻1 soil), indicating synergistic microbial interactions. Data analyses confirmed that improvements in morphophysiology, nutrient acquisition, and microbial activity were strongly interrelated, with the majority of variance explained by coordinated responses under the Biochar + dual inoculation system.

CONCLUSION: The integration of Biochar with encapsulated Rhizobium and AMF represents a highly effective strategy to enhance black soybean productivity and microbial symbiosis in Inceptisol, offering a promising pathway toward sustainable crop management.},
}

@article {pmid42321606,
year = {2026},
author = {Okrasińska, A and Furman, M and Lisiak, J and Michalik, A and Pawłowska, J},
title = {Characterization of facultative yet endohyphal interaction between Umbelopsis and Paraburkholderia.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12864-026-13055-5},
pmid = {42321606},
issn = {1471-2164},
support = {2021/41/N/NZ8/01994//Narodowe Centrum Nauki, Poland/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The generalist and facultative symbioses are more common in nature and usually precede obligate and specialized ones. Although bacterial-fungal interactions are probably not an exception, little is known about the role that facultative bacterial-fungal symbioses may play in adaptation to occupying specific niches and changing environmental conditions. While Mucoromycota fungi are known to form close relationships with endohyphal bacteria, examples of more facultative interactions have been recently reported in this lineage as well. One example of facultative, yet endohyphal interaction is Umbelopsis-Paraburkholderia consortium which seems to be highly prevalent in deadwood. In this study we aimed to characterize this relationship as, so far, in-depth characterizations are available only for strictly endohyphal bacteria and their hosts.

RESULTS: We compared functionally annotated genomes of both partners with genomes of their free-living and symbiotic relatives. Analysis showed that the genome of Paraburkholderia does not differ greatly from genomes of free-living Burkholderiaceae, as it is not reduced and possesses a similar enzymatic potential. The genome of the fungal partner is also similar to the genomes of its close relatives, however Umbelopsis belongs to a relatively understudied taxonomic group, thus conclusions about its genomic content are less certain. In the genomes we identified some features needed for establishment and maintenance of endohyphal interaction, such as genes coding for diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) and secretion systems. Finally, we detected potential metabolic intertwinement in wood degrading capacities of partners, which, combined with the detection of genes encoding plant growth promotion factors in bacteria, allows us to assume that the consortium is well adapted to develop in the decaying wood ecosystem from which it was isolated.

CONCLUSIONS: While presence of Paraburkholderia decreases growth rate of Umbelopsis in the simplified laboratory system, it is possible that together they may occupy niches not available to each partner individually. Paraburkholderia, unlike strictly endohyphal symbionts, has a non-reduced genome, with extensive metabolic capacities which probably play an important role in adaptation to colonizing otherwise inaccessible niches by their fungal host.},
}

@article {pmid42321973,
year = {2026},
author = {Du, S and Liao, XF and Tian, F and Huang, L and Wei, TH and Huo, D and Xie, T},
title = {Functional divergence and stage-specific symbiosis of endophytic Tulasnella fungi in the endangered orchid Paphiopedilum malipoense.},
journal = {Plant signaling & behavior},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {2689804},
doi = {10.1080/15592324.2026.2689804},
pmid = {42321973},
issn = {1559-2324},
abstract = {Paphiopedilum malipoense, a critically endangered orchid, depends entirely on mycorrhizal fungi for germination, complicating its conservation. This study isolated 12 fungal strains from wild roots, all identified as Tulasnella, confirming strict host specificity. Cross-species germination assays revealed functional divergence: strains MLP116, MLP027, and MLP232 supported full protocorm-to-seedling development with germination rates of 54.27%, 54.88%, and 62.01%, respectively, while others induced developmental arrest. Seedling symbiosis showed stage-specific effects: MLP217, ineffective during germination, increased seedling biomass by 131%. MLP232 performed excellently in both stages, achieving the highest germination rate and 98% biomass increase, with elevated IAA and soluble protein. Physiological profiling demonstrated functional complementarity: MLP161 enhanced nutrient acquisition; MLP246 boosted chlorophyll and antioxidants; and MLP281 increased antioxidant activity but suppressed growth. These results indicate that part Tulasnella strains exhibit stage-specific efficiency and functional complementarity. We recommend using tailored fungal consortia in orchid conservation to synergistically support complete life cycle development, providing a practical framework for safeguarding endangered species like P. malipoense.},
}

@article {pmid42315037,
year = {2026},
author = {Cheng, S and Guan, Y and Gao, J and Sheng, Y},
title = {Niallia circulans Q3 enhances microalgal growth in algae-bacteria symbiotic systems for aquaculture wastewater purification.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135199},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135199},
pmid = {42315037},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Microalgae play an important role in microalgae-bacteria symbiotic systems (MABS), and their growth directly affects purification efficiency. This study investigated the mechanistic role of microalgae growth-promoting bacteria in MABS, focusing on the screened strain Niallia circulans Q3. Through whole-genome sequencing, microscopic characterization, and validation in actual aquaculture effluent, the facilitative effects of Q3 on microalgal proliferation and aquaculture water purification were systematically elucidated. Results indicated that Q3 mitigated oxidative stress via antioxidant defense, promoted microalgal growth through multi-pathway synthesis of phytohormones, and enhanced phosphorus bioavailability through a sugar metabolism-driven acidification-chelation-hydrolysis mechanism. The presence of prophage-encoded auxiliary metabolic genes might further expand the metabolic versatility and stress resilience of the host bacterium, thereby stabilizing the MABS structure. Application in real effluent treatment demonstrated that supplementation with Q3 restructured the inter-algal microbial community, optimized nitrogen and phosphorus metabolic pathways, and significantly increased microalgal biomass and nutrient removal efficiency. This work provides both a theoretical foundation and practical strategies for the development of efficient microalgal production and aquaculture wastewater purification systems.},
}

@article {pmid42315161,
year = {2026},
author = {Jung, P and Werner, L and Brand, R and Briegel-Williams, L and Baumann, K and Letendu, G and Lakatos, M},
title = {Fog, Symbiosis, and Survival: The Ecological Architecture of the Grit Crust From the Atacama Desert Represents a Lichen Holobiome Rather Than a Soil Microbiome.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {28},
number = {6},
pages = {e70350},
doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.70350},
pmid = {42315161},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {JU 3228/1-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; 03WIR4502A//Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung/ ; W2V-Strategy2Value//Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung/ ; 03WIR4516A//Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung/ ; 03WIR4505B//Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung/ ; 724-0079#2024/0004-1501 15404//Ministry of Science and Health Rhineland-Palatinate/ ; 182531//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung/ ; },
mesh = {*Lichens/physiology/classification/microbiology/genetics ; Desert Climate ; *Soil Microbiology ; Chile ; *Symbiosis ; *Microbiota ; Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Ecosystem ; Ascomycota/genetics ; },
abstract = {Biological soil crusts (biocrusts) fulfil key ecological functions in arid ecosystems, yet their microbiome composition remains insufficiently resolved. Here, we characterise the microbial communities of the fog-dependent grit crust in the Pan de Azúcar National Park (Atacama Desert, Chile) using multi-marker metabarcoding (16S rRNA, 18S rRNA, ITS2) across 11 coastal-inland sites. Chlorophylla+b concentrations reached up to 900 mg m[-2], ranking among the highest reported for arid biocrusts and reflecting exceptional fog-sustained productivity. Bacterial assemblages were dominated by Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria, fungal communities by lichenized Ascomycota (Caliciaceae), and eukaryotic diversity by the green algal photobiont genus Trebouxia. Black-pigmented crusts with dense colonisation exhibited higher biomass but lower taxonomic richness, consistent with later-successional, lichen-dominated stages, whereas lighter, less colonised crusts were taxonomically richer yet functionally less integrated, indicative of earlier succession. The prevalence of Trebouxia, lichenized fungi, and lichen-associated bacterial taxa demonstrates that the grit crust microbiome is structured around symbiotic photobiont-mycobiont interactions rather than typical edaphic microbial assemblages. These findings redefine biocrust paradigms by documenting a fog-driven, chlorolichen-based system that bridges the ecological spectrum between lithic lichen communities and conventional soil crusts, establishing a critical baseline for assessing dryland microbial resilience under climate change.},
}

*Lichens/physiology/classification/microbiology/genetics
Desert Climate
*Soil Microbiology
Chile
*Symbiosis
*Microbiota
Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Ecosystem
Ascomycota/genetics

@article {pmid42315406,
year = {2026},
author = {Grewe, F and Lumbsch, HT},
title = {The myth of asexual fungi.},
journal = {Trends in genetics : TIG},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tig.2026.05.012},
pmid = {42315406},
issn = {0168-9525},
abstract = {It was hypothesized that asexuality is common in fungi, but genomic research indicates there is actually a continuum of reduced, rare, or cryptic sexual activity. The symbiotic nature of lichen-forming fungi further complicates their sexual reproduction. Nevertheless, recent studies suggest that these fungi are not entirely asexual.},
}

@article {pmid42316285,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, C and Li, D and Liu, L and Ma, L and Yang, J and Huang, Y and Wang, E and Yuan, H},
title = {Humic Acid-Derived Carbon Dots Promote Soybean Growth via Enhancing Photosynthesis and Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70689},
pmid = {42316285},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {2022YFA0912103//National Key Research and Development Program/ ; //2115 Talent Development Program of China Agricultural University/ ; },
abstract = {Carbon dots (CDs), as a class of carbon-based nanomaterials have been confirmed to have great potential in promoting crop growth, but its molecular mechanism remains largely unknown. In this study, novel soluble humic acid- derived CDs (HA-CDs) was developed and it could promote soybean growth and symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) within a certain concentration range, which significantly lowered than the precursor. Further biochemical and molecular-level analyses revealed that this growth- and SNF-promoting effects of HA-CDs was mainly due to improving the photosynthesis, regulating C/N metabolism and antioxidant enzyme activity of host, and enhancing rhizobial growth and its symbiotic ability with soybeans that depended on the genes rsh and rpoZ. This study provided significant advance in our understanding of the molecular mechanism of HA-CDs on legume growth and nitrogen fixation, as well as the potential application value of HA-CDs in agriculture system.},
}

@article {pmid42316695,
year = {2026},
author = {Kataoka, T and Yoneda, T and Nakane, D and Wada, H},
title = {Bacteria harness torque-induced buckling instability for flagellar wrapping.},
journal = {Physical review. E},
volume = {113},
number = {5-1},
pages = {054402},
doi = {10.1103/ktss-zp41},
pmid = {42316695},
issn = {2470-0053},
mesh = {*Flagella/metabolism ; *Torque ; *Models, Biological ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Hydrodynamics ; Movement ; *Bacterial Physiological Phenomena ; },
abstract = {Recent advances in microscopy techniques has uncovered unique aspects of flagella-driven motility in bacteria. A remarkable example is the discovery of flagellar wrapping, a phenomenon whereby a bacterium wraps its flagellum (or flagellar bundle) around its cell body and propels itself like a corkscrew, enabling locomotion in highly viscous or confined environments. For certain bacterial species, this flagellar-wrapping mode is crucial for establishing selective symbiotic relationships with their hosts. The transformation of a flagellum from an extended to a folded (wrapped) state is triggered by a buckling instability driven by the motor-generated torque that unwinds the helical filament. This study investigated this biologically inspired, novel buckling mechanism through a combination of macroscale physical experiments, numerical simulations, and scaling theory to reveal its underlying physical principles. Excellent quantitative agreement between experiments and numerical results showed that long-range hydrodynamic interactions are essential for accurate quantitative descriptions of the geometrically nonlinear deformation of the helical filament during wrapping. By systematically analyzing extensive experimental and numerical data, we constructed a stability diagram that rationalized the stability boundary through an elastohydrodynamic scaling analysis. Leveraging the scaling nature of this study, we compared our physical results with available biological data and propose that bacteria exploit motor-induced buckling instability to initiate their flagellar wrapping. Our findings indicate that this mechanically driven process is essential to bacterial-wrapping motility and, consequently, plays a critical role in symbiosis and infection.},
}

*Flagella/metabolism
*Torque
*Models, Biological
Biomechanical Phenomena
Hydrodynamics
Movement
*Bacterial Physiological Phenomena

@article {pmid42318087,
year = {2026},
author = {Yeager, EA and Pate, J and Stevens, GMW and Turffs, B and Macdonald, C},
title = {Hiding in Plain Sight: Evidence of Echeneidae Cloacal and Gill Diving Behavior in Manta Ray Hosts.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {5},
pages = {e73548},
pmid = {42318087},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Symbioses between remoras (Family Echeneidae) and marine megafauna are well-documented across diverse lineages. However, despite recent advancements in understanding the intricacies of these interactions, the dynamics of these relationships remain poorly understood, largely due to the highly mobile nature of both host and symbiont. Here we report seven observations of Echeneidae cloacal diving behavior in manta rays. These observations span all three currently described species of manta rays (Mobula yarae, Mobula birostris, and Mobula alfredi), demonstrate that large Echeneidae can perform cloacal diving behavior in both juvenile and adult manta rays, and show that this behavior occurs across multiple ocean basins. We also document one observation of Echeneidae attachment beneath a host's gill slit and several occurrences of gill injuries consistent with Echeneidae intrusion. These observations contribute to the growing database of Echeneidae-host behavioral interactions and provide an important foundation for understanding the extent, diversity, and dynamics underlying these highly debated, cryptic megafauna-symbiont interactions in marine environments. By providing new evidence of the complexity of symbiotic relationships in marine environments, this study also offers a multi-species natural history context that may inform future research and conservation considerations.},
}

@article {pmid42318115,
year = {2026},
author = {Si, Z and Wang, Y and Shen, M and Yu, Y and Wei, F and Lu, Y and Long, X and Yi, Y and Lin, H and Li, Y},
title = {An integrated Msr-antioxidase-host gene circuit maintains redox homeostasis in legume-rhizobium symbiosis.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1811549},
pmid = {42318115},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Methionine sulfoxide reductases (Msrs) play a critical role in oxidative stress resistance; however, their functions in rhizobium-legume symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) are not well understood. In this study, we systematically characterized four Msrs (MsrA1, MsrB1, MsrA2, MsrB2) from Mesorhizobium huakuii 7653R, a symbiotic partner of Astragalus sinicus. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses confirmed the presence of conserved catalytic domains and revealed genus-specific clustering of these Msrs. Expression profiling demonstrated distinct patterns: msrA1 and msrB1 were transiently induced during early symbiotic infection, whereas msrA2 and msrB2 exhibited biphasic upregulation at both early infection and nodule maturation stages. Notably, msrA1 responded specifically to H2O2, and all msr genes were induced by sodium hypochlorite in a concentration-dependent manner. Phenotypic analyses of overexpression (OE) and deletion (Δ) strains indicated that Msrs modulate key bacterial physiological traits. Deletion mutants showed impaired motility, reduced biofilm formation, and decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase), accompanied by elevated intracellular superoxide anion and H2O2 content. In contrast, msrs overexpression enhanced oxidative stress resistance but suppressed bacterial growth. In symbiotic assays, overexpression of msrA1, msrA2, or msrB2 resulted in leaf chlorosis, reduced nodule number, and impaired nitrogen fixation efficiency, while msrA2Δ and msrB2Δ mutants affected nodulation without compromising plant vigor. Further investigation revealed that Msrs regulate host root antioxidant responses and the transcription of symbiotic-related genes (AsNIN, AsNPL2) and defense-related genes (AsFLS2, AsPR10). Bacterial two-hybrid assays identified physical interactions between Msrs and chaperone proteins (GroEL1/2/3), antioxidant enzymes (SodA/B, KatE/G), and the LysR-type transcriptional regulator LsrB, suggesting the formation of an integrated redox regulatory network. Collectively, our findings demonstrate functional specialization of Msrs in M. huakuii 7653R, mediating oxidative stress resistance, bacterial physiology, and host-symbiont crosstalk. We propose a "Msr - antioxidant enzyme - host gene" regulatory model that maintains redox homeostasis during SNF. This study provides novel insights into the roles of rhizobial Msrs and offers potential targets for engineering high-efficiency nitrogen-fixing strains.},
}

@article {pmid42318200,
year = {2026},
author = {Gou, Y and Liu, X and Zhu, W and Yuan, Y and Wang, Y and Xie, Q},
title = {Beyond the 'second brain': the gut microbiota as a constitutive co-constructor of embodied cognitive network.},
journal = {Frontiers in neuroscience},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {1808839},
pmid = {42318200},
issn = {1662-4548},
abstract = {Traditional cognitive science has historically confined the mind within the cranium. While the "second brain" metaphor underscores the autonomy of the enteric nervous system, it remains entrenched in a neurocentric paradigm. Here, we propose a transformative framework: the gut microbiota may function as a constitutively relevant contributor to specific embodied cognitive architectures. We contend that cognition, emotion, and behavior are not fully understandable in brain-isolated terms. Instead, these processes emerge from a sustained, bidirectional dialogue between the host and its symbiotic microbial ecosystem. Integrating 4E cognition theory, we systematically delineate how gut microbiota functions as an embedded signaling system-producing cognitively active metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids and neuroactive substances-to shape interoceptive states and neural function via neural, immune, and metabolic/endocrine interfaces. We establish a rigorous evidential chain, categorized as "deprivation, replacement, observation, and intervention," synthesizing germ-free animal models, fecal microbiota transplantation, human multi-omics, and clinical interventions. These data-drawn from animal models that establish causal necessity and sufficiency, human cohort studies that reveal systematic ecological associations, and proof-of-concept intervention trials that demonstrate clinical plasticity-converge to support the view that microbiota-derived processes may be constitutively relevant to the realization of specific embodied cognitive architectures, especially those organized through interoceptive prediction, affective appraisal, and vagal-metabolic signaling, rather than functioning as merely transient or incidental regulators. The multi-level nature of this evidence base, spanning causal mechanisms in controlled settings to ecological validity in human populations, provides a robust foundation for reframing the gut microbiota as a symbiotic co-constructor of the embodied mind. Ultimately, we move beyond the linear "gut-brain axis" model to outline a multispecies framework for understanding the embodied architectures within which interoceptive, affective, and related cognitive processes unfold. This paradigm shift offers a novel biological foundation for the mind and enables precision interventions for mental health, such as psychobiotics and targeted ecological remodeling. Looking forward, we envision a unified "microbiota-mind" model that integrates computational modeling and ethical frameworks. This endeavor challenges the traditional concept of a "self" bounded by the skin, providing a roadmap for the future of precision psychiatry and cognitive science.},
}

@article {pmid42320468,
year = {2026},
author = {Stuer, N and Leroy, T and Eekhout, T and De Keyser, A and Staut, J and De Rybel, B and Vandepoele, K and Van Damme, P and Van Dingenen, J and Goormachtig, S},
title = {Decoding stage-specific symbiotic programs in the Rhizophagus irregularis-tomato interaction using single-nucleus transcriptomics.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2026.05.057},
pmid = {42320468},
issn = {1879-0445},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) establish a dynamic and asynchronous symbiosis with a wide range of land plants, which involves distinct stages of root colonization and associated cellular responses that co-occur within the same root. While decades of research have significantly advanced our understanding of the plant's symbiotic gene repertoire, this spatial and temporal complexity has hindered a detailed dissection of the molecular mechanisms underlying fungal accommodation. Here, we present the first single-nucleus RNA-sequencing (snRNA-seq) dataset of Solanum lycopersicum roots colonized by Rhizophagus irregularis. Unsupervised subclustering of an arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM)-specific cell population resolves AM-responsive root epidermal cells as well as a developmental gradient of cortical cells across distinct stages of arbuscule formation, thus unveiling stage-specific transcriptional signatures during AMF colonization. Moreover, using motif-informed network inference based on single-cell expression data (MINI-EX), we put forward candidate transcription factors orchestrating these stage-specific transcriptional programs. Together, our data support novel hypotheses on how diverse plant developmental and physiological processes-including localized cell-cycle reactivation and the integration of multiple nutritional cues-are coordinated to facilitate the establishment of a functional symbiosis. As such, this high-resolution dataset serves as a valuable resource for candidate gene prioritization and future reverse genetic studies.},
}

@article {pmid42307410,
year = {2026},
author = {Myers, K and Covington, K and Barcinas, S},
title = {Educator Identity Formation of the Clinical Instructor in Physical Therapy: A Qualitative Exploration.},
journal = {Journal, physical therapy education},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1097/JTE.0000000000000491},
pmid = {42307410},
issn = {1938-3533},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Clinical instructors (CIs) play a vital role in physical therapy education, yet they often face limited support and recognition. Despite these challenges, many clinicians consistently engage in the CI role, suggesting a deeper integration of educator identity within their professional identity. Sustained participation as a CI is essential to clinical education placement capacity and understanding how educator identity supports commitment to the CI role may inform strategies to address placement challenges. The purpose of this study was to explore how physical therapists experience educator identity formation and integrate the CI role into their broader professional identity.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE: Professional identity encompasses the values, skills, and roles that define one's place within a profession. In physical therapy, research has largely focused on the clinician identity, neglecting the educator role. Studies in medicine and nursing reveal tensions between clinician and educator identities, but these findings may not fully apply to the intermittent and voluntary nature of the CI role in physical therapy and have not been fully explored in the physical therapy literature.

SUBJECTS: Thirteen experienced CIs from diverse geographic and practice settings participated.

METHODS: The study used an interpretive qualitative design grounded in Social Cognitive Career Theory. Clinical instructors who had supervised more than 5 full-time students in their career were recruited using Directors of Clinical Education from accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy programs as gatekeepers. Semi-structured interviews explored participants' experiences, motivations, and perceptions of educator identity. Data were analyzed through open and axial coding, followed by thematic analysis.

RESULTS: One overarching theme of Organizational Influence emerged as well as 4 subthemes: Hidden Identity, Symbiotic Roles, Commitment to the Profession, and Community Matters. Participants described educator identity as underrecognized yet deeply connected to their clinical role. Teaching reinforced clinical expertise, reduced burnout, and fostered professional fulfillment. Organizational culture, peer support, and student feedback influenced self-efficacy and sustained engagement as CIs.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Findings highlight the interconnectedness of clinician and educator identities among experienced CIs. Supporting educator identity development through targeted professional development and organizational support may enhance CI engagement and retention. Reframing teaching as integral to clinical excellence offers a promising strategy to advance physical therapy education.},
}

@article {pmid42308412,
year = {2026},
author = {Zeng, Q and Soltaniband, V},
title = {Biological Control Microorganisms that Induce Plant Defense Responses.},
journal = {Annual review of phytopathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1146/annurev-phyto-011325-023109},
pmid = {42308412},
issn = {1545-2107},
abstract = {Some plant-beneficial microbes, including bacteria and fungi, can induce plant defense, enabling plants to resist pathogen infections. Successful defense elicitation depends on compatible host-microbe interactions at multiple stages. The initial interaction begins with plant root exudates, which contain chemical cues that attract beneficial microbes by enhancing their motility, biofilm formation, and expression of symbiosis- and immunity-related genes. In turn, these microbes produce a diverse array of immune elicitors-such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and volatile compounds-that are perceived by plants through various mechanisms. Some elicitors are recognized by membrane-bound pattern recognition receptors, whereas others interact with the plant plasma membrane or cytoplasmic targets such as MYB72 and LOX3. These interactions can either trigger local pattern-triggered immunity, characterized by reactive oxygen species production and activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, or generate long-distance signals such as oxylipins that induce systemic resistance in distal tissues. A central outcome of these interactions is induced systemic resistance, which primes plants for a heightened immune state, enabling faster and stronger defense responses upon a subsequent pathogen challenge. In some cases, beneficial microbes can also trigger salicylic acid-mediated systemic acquired resistance, particularly enhancing resistance against biotrophic pathogens. Furthermore, beneficial microbes must balance immune activation and immune evasion by suppressing microbe-associated molecular pattern-triggered immune responses and avoiding the formation of hyperbiofilm, which allows them to establish a long-term symbiotic relationship with the host.},
}

@article {pmid42310540,
year = {2026},
author = {Kassahun, T and Admas, H},
title = {Interactive effects of field pea genotypes and Rhizobium Leguminosarum strains on nodulation, yield, and nitrogen fixation in Sinana district, Ethiopia.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12870-026-09271-6},
pmid = {42310540},
issn = {1471-2229},
abstract = {Field pea (Pisum sativum L.) is one of the most important food legumes in the highlands of Ethiopia, but its productivity in Sinana District is limited by poor soil fertility and inefficient biological nitrogen fixation (BNF). This study examined the joint effects of field pea genotypes and Rhizobium leguminosarum strains on nodulation, yield, nutrient uptake, and nitrogen fixation in greenhouse and field experiments. Two strains (EAL 300 and EAL 302), their mixture, and a control were compared for three varieties (local, 'Wayitu', and 'Dadimos') in a factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Greenhouse experiments showed that EAL 302 had better survival ability on seeds, competitiveness, and symbiotic efficiency than EAL 300. In the field experiment, significant interactions between genotypes and strains were found for nodulation and straw yield. Inoculation with EAL 302 increased nodule dry weight, plant dry matter, grain yield (2900 kg ha[-1]), straw yield (5633 kg ha[-1]), total Nitrogen (TN) uptake (169.7 kg N ha[-1]), and total nitrogen fixed (242 kg N ha[-1]) significantly compared with the uninoculated control. Among varieties, 'Wayitu' had the highest grain yield (2876 kg ha[-1]) and better nodulation and nutrient uptake. The combination of 'Wayitu' and EAL 302 was found to be the most effective symbiotic combination. The results clearly show that genotype-strain interaction is an important factor in improving BNF and yield. Inoculation with EAL 302, especially 'Wayitu', is recommended as a promising inoculation strategy to improve field pea yield, nitrogen fixation, and soil nitrogen status in Sinana District.},
}

@article {pmid42311224,
year = {2026},
author = {Kumar, J and Kim, SY and Rivera-Sierra, G and Bisquert, J},
title = {Dynamical Symbiosis of Solar Cell and Memristor.},
journal = {ACS energy letters},
volume = {11},
number = {6},
pages = {4512-4517},
pmid = {42311224},
issn = {2380-8195},
abstract = {Memristive devices have attracted significant attention due to their nonlinear dynamics, analog tunability, and ability to emulate synaptic functions. When combined with energy-harvesting components, memristors offer an opportunity to realize self-powered physical AI systems. We demonstrate a solar cell-driven perovskite memristor architecture, which is suitable for autonomous physical AI platforms for light-driven computation. In this system, incident light is directly converted into electrical stimuli by integrated solar cells, which modulate the conductance states of memristors. These conductance changes can encode computational states and learning behaviors, enabling direct processing of optical information without intermediate digital conversion. Such a light-driven memristive system enables simultaneous sensing, energy harvesting, memory storage, and computation within a unified physical structure.},
}

@article {pmid42304885,
year = {2026},
author = {Bradley, JM},
title = {From smoke to symbiosis: dissecting KAI2 signalling in rice using the specific receptor agonist, dMGer.},
journal = {Plant physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/plphys/kiag389},
pmid = {42304885},
issn = {1532-2548},
}

@article {pmid42306250,
year = {2026},
author = {Flores-Borges, DNA and Sisti, LS and Antunes, C and Brum, M and Máguas, C and Mayer, JLS},
title = {Nutrient acquisition of an underground and mycoheterotrophic orchid.},
journal = {AoB PLANTS},
volume = {18},
number = {3},
pages = {plag027},
pmid = {42306250},
issn = {2041-2851},
abstract = {Most species of orchids become autotrophic after the formation of the first leaf develops; however, some mycoheterotrophic species remain achlorophyllous at maturity and non-photosynthetic throughout their entire life cycles, depending on fungal associations for survival. However, the mechanisms governing carbon and nitrogen exchange between mycoheterotrophic plants and their associated fungi remain largely unexplored in neotropical regions. Studies with mycoheterotrophic orchids from tropical regions and different subfamilies contribute to a better understanding of the nutrition mode of these plants, and allow evaluation of the role that morphological and anatomical characteristics play in the mycoheterotrophic way of life. Samples of different individuals of Pogoniopsis schenckii were fixed and subjected to standard anatomical techniques for light microscopy, histochemical tests, transmission and scanning electron microscopy and stable isotope analysis. Pogoniopsis schenckii exhibits two distinct root types: one with acute apex and another with a rounded apex. Fungal hyphae were found in all roots but were not organized into typical pelotons; instead, they were distributed throughout the epidermis and cortex, including within cells associated with starch storage. Our isotopic results suggest that P. schenckii acquires carbon and nitrogen through its symbiotic fungi from the soil. The root system of P. schenckii exhibits two root morphotypes that differ in size, apex shape, and anatomy. The observed patterns of [13]C and [15]N abundances in P. schenckii suggest that this mycoheterotrophic orchid is associated with ectomycorrhizal fungi. Additionally, we described two trends in the degradation of the semi-coiled hyphae found within the epidermal and cortical cells of the two root morphotypes of this mycoheterotrophic species.},
}

@article {pmid42306420,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, J and Liu, Q and Chen, J and Zhou, Y and Zhang, B and Yuan, Z and Li, P and Pang, Z},
title = {Moderate organic-inorganic fertilization optimizes soybean productivity by reshaping rhizosphere microbiome-metabolite networks.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1823609},
pmid = {42306420},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Soybean, a key oilseed and fodder crop, is pivotal for national food security in China. And sustainable soybean production requires fertilization strategies that enhance yield while restoring rhizosphere ecological function. Balancing chemical and organic fertilization is crucial for sustainable soybean production, yet the underlying rhizosphere mechanisms driving crop performance remain underexplored. We conducted a nutrient-equalized gradient substitution experiment comparing chemical fertilizer (CF) with 30%, 70%, and 100% organic fertilizer replacement (OF30, OF70, OF100), investigating the effects on soybean growth, rhizosphere soil properties, bacterial and fungal microbiomes, and metabolomes, while maintaining equivalent nutrient inputs. Moderate organic-inorganic fertilization (30/70% organic substitution, designated as OF30 and OF70) significantly enhanced plant height, root length, biomass, nodulation, nitrogenase activity, photosynthetic capacity, and yield compared to full chemical fertilization (CF, 0% organic) and full organic fertilization (OF100%, 100% organic), the application of 30% organic and 70% inorganic fertilization in combination identified as the optimal strategy. These gains suggest that rhizosphere soil exhibited improved pH, organic carbon, and nutrient availability (K and P), alongside balanced nitrogen. Bacterial communities showed conserved core structure but increased α-diversity and turnover toward metabolically versatile genera (e.g., Flavobacterium, Geobacter, Luteibacter) under organic-inorganic fertilization. Fungal assemblages preserved a stable core while enriching saprotrophic and beneficial guilds (e.g., Serendipita, Chaetomium, Arthrobotrys). Metabolomics revealed conserved profiles with targeted enrichment of carbon-related classes (e.g., glycerophospholipids, flavonoids like delphinidin), supporting microbial activity and plant-microbe signaling. Integrated analyzes indicated that moderate organic substitution (30/70%) reshapes the rhizosphere toward balanced nutrient cycling, enhanced microbiome diversity, and functional metabolite pools, fostering symbiotic interactions and improving nutrient availability. These findings highlight moderate organic-inorganic blending as an optimal strategy for improving soybean productivity and soil health, with implications for sustainable cropping systems.},
}

@article {pmid42298395,
year = {2026},
author = {Montes-Ortiz, Z and Powell, D and Vogel, H and Löfstedt, C and Andersson, MN},
title = {Comparative genomics reveal signatures of ecological specialization in the striped ambrosia beetle Trypodendron lineatum.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42298395},
issn = {1471-2164},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Beetles (Coleoptera) display exceptional dietary diversity and occupy a wide range of ecological niches, often involving close associations with plants and microbes. Ambrosia beetles (Curculionidae; Scolytinae and Platypodinae) exemplify ecological specialization by cultivating mutualistic fungi within galleries excavated in their host trees' xylem, with the fungi serving as their main food source. The striped ambrosia beetle Trypodendron lineatum is a pest of conifers, relying on its nutritional mutualist Phialophoropsis ferruginea for survival. This fungiculture-based lifestyle provides a system for exploring how specialized mutualism is reflected at the genomic level. Hence, we performed a comparative genomics analysis between T. lineatum and nine other beetle species with different ecological specializations. We hypothesized that fungiculture is associated with specific genomic adaptations, including changes in gene family composition related to nutrition, detoxification, and immunity.

RESULTS: The small genome of T. lineatum (74.4-83.6 Mb) exhibits comparatively low levels of repetitive DNA (19.9%), including a reduced proportion of transposable elements. Annotation generated 14,830 high-quality gene predictions, most of which were supported by transcript evidence or functional domains. Comparative orthology analysis across ten beetle species identified 13,896 orthogroups, with T.lineatum having 78 species-specific orthogroups comprising 238 genes. Gene family evolution analyses revealed 33 families with significant size changes in T. lineatum, including 16 expansions and 17 contractions. Notably, gene families associated with digestion, detoxification, and immunity were contracted. These included glycoside hydrolase 28, cytochrome P450, serpin, and trypsin families, which may reflect the fungus-based, rather than plant-based, diet of T. lineatum, and reduced reliance on broad-spectrum immune defenses. In contrast, expansions in the THAP and CD80-like immunoglobulin domain families indicate diversification of genes involved in genomic regulation and immune recognition.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that the genome of T. lineatum is characterized by low repeat content and compact gene architecture. The observed contractions in key gene families involved in plant digestion, detoxification, and immunity may represent genomic signatures of its obligate mutualistic specialization and narrow ecological niche. Our findings provide the first insights into the genomic adaptations of fungus-farming ambrosia beetles, suggesting that co-evolved insect-microbe mutualisms may lead to reductions in a variety of gene families.},
}

@article {pmid42298695,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, P and Liu, C and Pu, W and Zhang, J and Xu, R and Liu, L and Luo, J and Huang, R and Jiang, L and Huan, H and Luo, L and Liu, G and Dong, R and Chen, Z},
title = {Telomere-to-telomere genome of Stylosanthes guianensis uncovers symbiotic adaptation to phosphorus-deficient soils.},
journal = {Genome biology},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42298695},
issn = {1474-760X},
support = {32441034, 32471766, 32371769//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 323CXTD387//Natural Science Foundation of Hainan Province/ ; CARS-22//Earmarked fund for CARS-Green Manure/ ; CARS-34//Earmarked fund for CARS-Forage and Grass/ ; 2024YFD1301203//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis/genetics ; *Fabaceae/genetics/metabolism/physiology ; *Phosphorus/deficiency/metabolism ; *Genome, Plant ; *Telomere/genetics ; *Soil/chemistry ; *Adaptation, Physiological/genetics ; Nitrogen Fixation ; Root Nodules, Plant/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Stylosanthes guianensis, a representative tropical legume, exhibits remarkable adaptation to low-phosphorus acidic soils. As a symbiotic species, it forms root nodule associations with rhizobia to fix atmospheric nitrogen, potentially enhancing phosphate use efficiency. This study aims to decipher the mechanisms linking root nodule symbiosis to low-phosphate adaptation in Stylosanthes guianensis.

RESULTS: We present the first gap-free, telomere-to-telomere genome of Stylosanthes guianensis (1.20 Gb), containing 82.28% repetitive sequences and 34,728 genes, with 99.30% BUSCO completeness and a 29.05 LTR Assembly Index score. Integrated genomic data and multi-omics analyses reveal a coordinated symbiotic strategy. Specifically, roots enhance flavonoid biosynthesis, likely driven by tandem duplication of chalcone reductase genes, to facilitate robust symbiont recruitment, while nodule development was regulated by a conserved network centered on the transcription factor NIN. In nodules, multiple phosphate starvation response pathways are activated, including enhanced phosphate transport and recycling, membrane lipid remodeling, and phosphate-conserving metabolic bypasses to support nitrogen fixation. Furthermore, co-upregulation of vitamin B6 and nitrogen assimilation pathways suggests a role in mitigating oxidative stress and sustaining metabolic balance.

CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals that root nodule symbiosis in Stylosanthes guianensis underpins a multifaceted adaptation to low-phosphate stress, integrating enhanced symbiotic signaling, conserved nodule development, reprogrammed phosphate metabolism, and improved antioxidant protection. These findings provide insights into stress-resilient symbiosis and a genomic foundation for improving nutrient efficiency in legumes.},
}

*Symbiosis/genetics
*Fabaceae/genetics/metabolism/physiology
*Phosphorus/deficiency/metabolism
*Genome, Plant
*Telomere/genetics
*Soil/chemistry
*Adaptation, Physiological/genetics
Nitrogen Fixation
Root Nodules, Plant/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid42298899,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhan, F and Shen, C and Mundock, IM and Ren, Y and Li, H and Xue, Q and Guo, W},
title = {Draft whole-genome and mitochondrial genome assemblies of Steinernema tarimense and Heterorhabditis sp. XJ-55.},
journal = {Journal of helminthology},
volume = {100},
number = {},
pages = {e63},
doi = {10.1017/S0022149X26101667},
pmid = {42298899},
issn = {1475-2697},
support = {32160377//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Genome, Mitochondrial ; *Rhabditida/genetics/classification ; *Genome, Helminth ; Phylogeny ; China ; },
abstract = {Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) from the genera Steinernema and Heterorhabditis are potent biocontrol agents. They kill insects through a unique symbiosis with pathogenic bacteria (Xenorhabdus or Photorhabdus), making them ideal for integrated pest management due to their broad host range and environmental safety. Despite high species diversity, genomic resources for these nematodes remain limited. The aim of this study was to characterise the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes of a newly described species, S. tarimense, and a putative novel Heterorhabditis species (strain XJ-55), both obtained from Xinjiang, China. A comprehensive genomic annotation and analysis were conducted to investigate the evolutionary origins of insect parasitism and the molecular adaptation mechanisms involved in host-parasite interactions. Through Illumina sequencing and de novo assembly, we obtained fragmented yet biologically informative genomes for both species. The assembly of S. tarimense reached a BUSCO completeness of 84.06% with an estimated genome size of 84.27 Mb, while that of Heterorhabditis sp. XJ-55 achieved 92.28% completeness with an estimated size of 75.11 Mb. Functional annotation revealed conserved metabolic profiles between the two species, with the Metabolism category being the most abundant. Mitochondrial genomes were successfully reconstructed using MitoZ and NOVOPlasty, resulting in a complete mitogenome of S. tarimense (13,836 bp) and a partial mitogenome of Heterorhabditis sp. XJ-55 (16,865 bp). Comparative mitogenomic analysis highlighted characteristic features such as pronounced A+T bias and distinct codon usage patterns, providing new evolutionary insights into these genera. These genomic resources establish a foundation for future comparative studies and functional investigations, with promising implications for enhancing the biological control efficacy of EPNs in sustainable agricultural systems.},
}

Animals
*Genome, Mitochondrial
*Rhabditida/genetics/classification
*Genome, Helminth
Phylogeny
China

@article {pmid42299645,
year = {2026},
author = {Paulsen, J and Sharrett, ST and Mumey, D and Larsen, EM and Nguyen, NK and Lendemer, J and Calabria, LM and Hoffman, JR and Magori, K and Allen, JL},
title = {Helitrons are enriched in lichenized fungi with long generation lengths and small distribution sizes.},
journal = {G3 (Bethesda, Md.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/g3journal/jkag153},
pmid = {42299645},
issn = {2160-1836},
abstract = {Transposable elements (TEs) have the potential to drive genome evolution by introducing mutations and causing structural instability and chromosomal rearrangements, particularly under conditions like environmental or genetic stress. In this study, we generated 18 new long-read based metagenomically assembled reference genomes for lichenized fungi, which form obligate mutualistic symbioses with algae or cyanobacteria. We used the new genomes and 10 publicly available genomes to investigate the relationships between species traits (i.e., dominant reproductive mode, distribution size, and generation length) and the abundance and spatial distribution of TEs using a phylogenetic comparative framework. We found that species with smaller distribution sizes and longer generation lengths had a higher genomic DNA transposon load. Specifically, their genomes were enriched with Rolling Circle transposons, which contradicts previous research that has identified high proportions of retrotransposons in rare species. Disproportionate distributions of TEs in rare and range-restricted species may disrupt genomic stability, decrease fitness, and be reflective of species experiencing a greater degree of stress. Conversely, greater TE activity may be an important source of novel genetic diversity in isolated populations with limited gene flow. Further research is needed to understand the potential mechanisms driving TE proliferation in rare species' genomes, and if TE content is predictive of increased extinction risk.},
}

@article {pmid42300248,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, YJ and Hwang, HJ and Lee, J and Park, HS and Son, J and Seyedsayamdost, M and Bae, M and Lee, SR and Kwon, Y},
title = {Natural products with atypical atoms: unveiling structures, biosynthetic pathways, and bioactivities.},
journal = {Natural product reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5np00083a},
pmid = {42300248},
issn = {1460-4752},
abstract = {Covering: 1944-2025Nature's biosynthetic repertoire extends far beyond conventional CHON(S) chemistry and encompasses a rare but diverse array of natural products that incorporate atypical elements such as arsenic, selenium, fluorine, iodine, boron, and vanadium. These metabolites reveal how living systems have evolved to harness atypical atoms through both enzyme-mediated and spontaneous chemical strategies. Biological C-F and Se-C bond formation, SAM-dependent arsenic methylation, and non-enzymatic boron complexation exemplify nature's ingenuity in overcoming extreme energetic or coordination constraints. Despite their scarcity, these compounds play critical ecological and physiological roles in detoxification and redox regulation (As, Se), defense, and signaling (F, I, B), and in some cases, sustain global biogeochemical cycles (Mo, V). Structurally, they exhibit exceptional chemical stability, redox versatility, and metal-ligand diversity. Functionally, these findings expand our understanding of enzyme evolution, chemical defense strategies, and symbiotic metabolism in both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Recent genomic and biochemical advances have uncovered new families of atypical natural products and the specialized enzymes responsible for their formation. Taken together, these discoveries define the limits of biogenic chemistry and highlight promising avenues for sustainable biocatalysis and drug discovery, particularly in the fluorination, selenation, and boronation pathways that bridge biological and synthetic chemistry.},
}

@article {pmid42301021,
year = {2026},
author = {Echeverry-Pérez, JS and Castelli, M and Muñoz-Leal, S and Nava, S and Sassera, D and Sánchez-Vialas, A and Olmeda, AS and Valcárcel, F and Uribe, JE},
title = {Genomic evolution of Francisella: metabolic innovation, endosymbiotic transitions to ticks, and biogeographic history.},
journal = {Genome biology and evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/gbe/evag135},
pmid = {42301021},
issn = {1759-6653},
abstract = {Ticks (Ixodida) are the second most important vectors of infectious diseases in vertebrates, after mosquitoes. Beyond vector roles, they maintain mutualistic associations with bacteria, including endosymbionts that provide essential B vitamins lacking in their blood-based diet. The most extensively studied endosymbionts belong to the genera Coxiella, Midichloria, and Francisella. The genus Francisella encompasses endosymbionts (FE), pathogens (FP), opportunistic pathogens (FO) and free-living environmental strains (FL), making it a powerful system for evolutionary and comparative genomic analyses. In this study, total DNA from six adult female ticks of the genera Hyalomma and Amblyomma was sequenced to generate new FE genomes. Seven deeply sequenced public metagenomes were also assembled, yielding 71 Francisella and three Allofrancisella strains. This dataset supported phylogenomic reconstruction and comparison of genomic features, including vitamin biosynthesis and virulence pathways, with a focus on transitions to tick endosymbiosis. A densely sampled MLST phylogeny was constructed to explore biogeographic patterns. Our results show that, except for FE, no ecological trait is monophyletic, supporting an origin of Francisella diversity from free-living ancestors. Biogeography suggests Palearctic and Afrotropical FE strains are derived and may involve horizontal transfers. Francisella comparative genomics reveals two contrasting profiles: environmental generalists and host-restricted specialists. These findings reinforce the role of tick FEs as nutritional mutualists, retaining key pathways such as riboflavin, shikimate, and biotin biosynthesis. In contrast, virulence is not ancestrally conserved but an innovation in pathogenic lineages, largely degraded in tick FEs. These results advance understanding of endosymbiont evolution and provide genomic insights with potential for disease control.},
}

@article {pmid42301407,
year = {2026},
author = {Paddock, KJ and Eastman, KE and Chen, JZ and Gerardo, NM and Corcoran, JA},
title = {Brain and antennal transcriptome changes are linked to colonization-mediated behavioral switch in an environmentally transmitted symbiosis.},
journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jeb/voag047},
pmid = {42301407},
issn = {1420-9101},
abstract = {Many organisms engage in symbiosis with microbial partners that are not passed on directly to offspring but are acquired from the environment each generation. Hosts can minimize the risk of relying on such horizontal transmission of beneficial symbionts by engaging in specialized acquisition behaviors. Squash bugs, Anasa tristis, locate their Caballeronia symbiont through olfactory cues released from adult frass. After ingesting the symbiont, nymph behavior shifts from symbiont searching to host plant feeding. To begin to elucidate the underlying changes behind this behavioral switch, we generated transcriptomes from heads of second instar squash bugs that had recently acquired their symbiont and compared them to those of aposymbiotic controls. Inoculation with Caballeronia significantly impacted overall gene expression. Functional enrichment revealed significant changes in transporter and peptidase activity in response to symbiont colonization, suggesting a strong signaling cascade between midgut crypts and the brain. Given the role of olfaction in symbiont acquisition, we manually annotated odorant receptors and odorant binding proteins, two important gene families involved in olfaction. We identified one odorant receptor and two odorant binding proteins that responded to symbiont colonization. We then evaluated the phylogenetic relationship of all identified odorant receptors and odorant binding proteins to those of other hemipterans to identify functionally relevant clades. These results highlight the tight physiological coupling that can evolve between insects and their horizontally acquired microbial symbionts and will inform future research on microbially mediated changes in insect behavior.},
}

@article {pmid42302289,
year = {2026},
author = {Bosseno, M and Demba, A and Horta Araújo, N and Colinet, D and Israel, A and Pacoud, M and Maucourt, M and El Fazaa, Y and Jacob, D and Lepetit, M and Rolin, D and Brouquisse, R and Boscari, A},
title = {Functional divergence and symbiotic significance of nitrate reductase isoforms in Medicago truncatula.},
journal = {Plant physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/plphys/kiag377},
pmid = {42302289},
issn = {1532-2548},
abstract = {Nitrate reductase (NR) is a key enzyme in nitrate assimilation, yet its function within nodules remains poorly understood. In Medicago truncatula, three NR genes, MtNR1, MtNR2, and MtNR3, exhibit distinct evolutionary origins and regulatory features. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that NR3-type genes, originated from a duplication of NR1 within Inverted Repeat-Lacking Clade (IRLC) legumes, have lost the conserved phosphorylation sites critical for post-translational regulation. To assess the functional significance of these isoforms, we characterized single and double nr mutants obtained through Tnt1 transposon insertion under nitrate nutrition and during symbiosis. MtNR1 is the primary contributor to total NR activity: with nr1 and nr2 mutants retaining around 10% and 30% of wild-type levels, respectively. The nr1/nr2 double mutant shows an almost complete loss of NR activity and fails to survive under nitrate supply, demonstrating the essential and non-redundant roles of both isoforms. Under symbiotic conditions, single mutants displayed normal nodulation, whereas nodule development was nearly abolished in the double mutant despite continued MtNR3 expression. In addition to its role in nitrogen assimilation, single nr mutants showed increased sensitivity to hypoxic stress and impaired recovery of nitrogen fixation, revealing a role for NR in nodule energy metabolism through the phytoglobin-NO respiration pathway. We propose that the combined loss of NR1 and NR2 disrupts NO cycling linked to mitochondrial electron transport, thereby compromising the energy balance required for symbiosis under microoxic conditions. This work provides a framework to investigate NR diversification in legumes and opens perspectives for improving nitrogen fixation under environmental constraints.},
}

@article {pmid42302730,
year = {2026},
author = {Bisschop, A and Risling, T and Nowell, L},
title = {Reconfiguring Nursing: The Philosophical Impact of Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence on Person-Centered Nursing Practice.},
journal = {ANS. Advances in nursing science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42302730},
issn = {1550-5014},
abstract = {As digital technologies and artificial intelligence reshape health care, nursing's humanistic foundations face profound ontological and epistemological transformations. In this paper we analyze the tensions between technological efficiency and relational presence, arguing that "datafication" risks eroding the humanness in clinical care. By synthesizing these tensions through a constructivist lens, we propose the Integrated Dimensions of Technology and Care Framework which positions technological competence and compassionate care as symbiotic, mutually reinforcing dimensions. The framework provides a conceptual structure for improved understanding around how technology and compassionate care can connect in a way that ensures person-centered care remains paramount.},
}

@article {pmid42303510,
year = {2026},
author = {Gómez de Las Heras, MM and Mittelbrunn, M},
title = {T cell control of the intestinal barrier and gut microbiota during ageing.},
journal = {Trends in immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.it.2026.05.001},
pmid = {42303510},
issn = {1471-4981},
abstract = {The epithelial, microbial, and immune components of the intestinal barrier coexist in harmony to prevent undesirable inflammatory outcomes and ensure homeostasis in the host. In this review, we outline molecular mechanisms by which T cells regulate intestinal homeostasis and how the ageing-associated dysfunction of T cells could disturb host-microbiota symbiosis and the physical integrity of the intestinal barrier, ultimately driving inflammageing and poor health outcomes. Finally, we propose microbiota- and T cell-based therapeutic interventions aimed at strengthening the intestinal barrier to promote healthier longevity. Namely, we discuss the transplantation of youthful microbiota, the use of designed probiotics, and the adoptive transfer of competent or engineered T cells.},
}

@article {pmid41114903,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Z and Li, H and Tang, G and Wu, J and Zhang, Z and Huang, R and Cao, Y},
title = {Heterologous expression of nodulation signaling pathway genes enhances grain yield in rice.},
journal = {Plant molecular biology},
volume = {115},
number = {6},
pages = {115},
pmid = {41114903},
issn = {1573-5028},
support = {2024YFA0918200//the National Key R&D Program of China/ ; 32160430//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Rhizobial symbiosis, a crucial source of nitrogen for legume hosts, is thought to have evolved from mycorrhizal symbiosis. Both symbioses share a common symbiotic signaling pathway (CSSP) in plants. One hypothesis is that the lack of nodulation-specific genes in the genome of mycorrhizal symbiotic plants limits their ability to establish rhizobial interactions. Here, we introduced nine key genes in nodulation pathway, including NFR1, NFR5, SYMRK, CCaMK, CYCLOPS, NSP1, NSP2, LHK1, and NIN) from Lotus japonicus, into rice (Oryza sativa ssp. japonica cv. Zhonghua 11) to create Nodulation Signaling Pathway Overexpression (NSPO) rice. Analysis of gene expression showed that NFR5 and CCaMK were robustly transcribed in transgenic rice roots determined by qPCR. SYMRK, CYCLOPS, NSP2, and NFR1 showed relatively low transcript abundance, while transcripts of NIN, NSP1, and LHK1 were not detected. NSPO rice did not exhibit enhanced rhizobial colonization at the roots but increased formation of 2,4-D-induced nodule-like structures at the ratoon roots compared to the wild type. Remarkably, field trials demonstrated higher grain yield in NSPO rice, despite a slight reduction in seed-setting rate. Additionally, the expression of immune-related transcription factor genes was downregulated in NSPO rice. These findings suggest that heterologous expression of nodulation-related genes can promote rhizobial interaction and improve agronomic traits, such as yield in non-leguminous crops.},
}

@article {pmid41489731,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, X and Suo, D and Zhao, B and Gao, Y and Xu, W and Pan, F},
title = {Research progress in plant endophyte-mediated lignocellulosic biomass degradation and valorization: a review.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {2},
pages = {82},
pmid = {41489731},
issn = {1432-072X},
support = {QKPTRC[2019]-035//the Science and Technology Plan Project of Guizhou, China/ ; 202310661078//he Undergraduate Training Program for Innovation and Entrepreneurship of Zunyi Medical University/ ; ZYDC202402136//the Undergraduate Training Program for Innovation and Entrepreneurship of Zunyi Medical University/ ; QKHJC-ZK[2023]YB524//and the Science and Technology Foundation of Guizhou Province/ ; },
abstract = {Endophytes establish persistent symbiotic relationships within healthy plant tissues, with certain strains demonstrating robust lignocellulose degradation capabilities, positioning them as promising biocatalysts for efficient biomass conversion. These endophytes present significant advantages in sustainable straw utilization, biosynthesis of valuable bioactive compounds, advancement of bioenergy production technologies, and the development of bio-fertilizers. This review systematically evaluates recent advancements in lignocellulose-degrading endophytes (LDE) research, addressing critical scientific aspects including strain selection, identification, host and strain distribution characteristics, enzymatic system properties, and industrial applications. Strain screening incorporates comprehensive phenotypic, enzymatic, and genomic analyses, while identification relies on integrated morphological, metabolic, and molecular genetic markers. The primary LDE producers are predominantly Ascomycota fungi and Proteobacteria bacteria, which preferentially colonize dicotyledonous plants through diverse symbiotic mechanisms. Lignocellulose degradation is mediated by a sophisticated enzymatic system, whose activity can be enhanced through carbon source induction and strain optimization strategies. Co-cultivation systems have demonstrated synergistic effects in improving degradation efficiency. Furthermore, endophytic metabolites exhibit broad applicability, facilitating lignocellulose breakdown in agricultural residues to yield high-value natural products and renewable energy sources, et al. The degradation efficiency of endophytes is intrinsically linked to their evolutionary adaptations and functional genomic modules. Recent studies indicate that a “dual carbon” strategy has significantly enhanced research on LDE, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural residue conversion and contributing to carbon neutrality objectives.},
}

@article {pmid41746517,
year = {2026},
author = {Jana, S and Raha, S},
title = {Biosynthesis of auxin and other plant growth-promoting traits from novel endophyte Fusarium incarnatum SELC2 and its in vitro plant growth-promoting efficacy on rice (Oryza sativa L.).},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41746517},
issn = {1573-0972},
abstract = {Endophytic fungi in symbiotic relationships with their host plants are recognized for promoting plant growth and mitigating the detrimental impacts of both abiotic and biotic challenges. However, due to limited knowledge of plant growth-promoting microorganisms coupled with Pteridophytes, the objective of this investigation was to identify and characterize the fungal endophytes from Selaginella ciliaris (Retz.) Spring. The endophytic fungus Fusarium incarnatum SELC2 was isolated and identified via the 18S rDNA sequencing. The isolates exhibited phosphate solubilization, ammonia production, and extracellular enzyme production activities, and had the capacity to generate indole acetic acid (IAA) whether L-tryptophan was present or not. This research explores the optimization of a number of environmental and nutritional aspects for IAA production using Central Composite Design (CCD) with Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The ambient temperature for incubation was 34℃, pH of 6.5, incubation time of 6 days, 0.35 g/L tryptophan, and 30 g/L sucrose were identified as the ideal parameters for achieving the highest IAA production. The refined IAA was analyzed using HPTLC and HPLC, showing a pink band with an Rf value of 0.92 and a peak at 2.5 min, consistent with standard IAA. Furthermore, the impact of endophyte on the initial growth parameters of Oryza sativa L. was assessed using three rice varieties, confirming that SELC2 is a significant isolate for promoting rice vegetative growth parameters, and notable changes have been observed in the photosynthetic pigments, sugar, protein, and antioxidative enzymes across both fungal extract treatments, as well as in co-inoculation.},
}

@article {pmid41774391,
year = {2026},
author = {Neves, MAS and de Paulo, RS and Bressan, J and Pereira, SS and Kravchychyn, ACP and Hermsdorff, HHM},
title = {Kefir and Its By-Products Supplementation Reduces Inflammation and Oxidative Stress, Improves Intestinal Barrier Integrity, and Modulates the Gut Microbiota in Animal Models of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41774391},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {Kefir is a beverage obtained by fermenting milk or sugary solutions with a symbiotic community of bacteria and yeasts, presenting promising antimicrobial, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. This systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence from preclinical studies evaluating the effects of kefir or its by-products on biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and gut health in animal models of IBD. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, utilizing the PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus databases. The quality of the studies was assessed using SYRCLE’s Risk of Bias tool. Sixteen experimental studies were included, comprising 585 rodents with chemically induced colitis. The interventions included traditional milk kefir, rice and water kefir, as well as isolated microorganisms and kefir-derived supernatants. Most studies reported reductions in inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and inflammatory enzymes (iNOS, COX-2, MPO), along with increases in anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, IL-4). Reductions in MDA and H2O2 were reported, supporting the antioxidant effects of kefir and its derivatives. Changes in antioxidant enzyme activity, including SOD, were also observed. In addition, kefir modulated gut microbiota composition, upregulated the expression of tight junction proteins, and influenced immune and molecular signaling pathways. Improvements were also observed in clinical parameters of IBD models, including disease activity index, rectal bleeding, and histological damage. Kefir and its derivatives exhibit beneficial effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, gut permeability, and immune modulation in animal models of IBD, suggesting a potential alternative for treating these diseases in humans. Although the findings are promising, heterogeneity among study protocols and methodological limitations highlight the need for further studies. Registration PROSPERO number: CRD420251062931.},
}

@article {pmid41803332,
year = {2026},
author = {Roy, S and Soumen, S and Arp, JT and Kaur, J and Bhowmick, R and Pettit, T and Choudhury, S and Das, TK and Nayaka, SC and Mandal, SN and Mallikarjuna, MG and Sanyal, D},
title = {From soil to sequences: mechanisms and tools unravelling plant-rhizomicrobiome interactions.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41803332},
issn = {1573-0972},
abstract = {The rhizosphere of a plant represents a dynamic interface where interactions with diverse microbial communities drive nutrient cycling, stress tolerance, and crop performance. As agricultural systems increasingly face challenges such as soil degradation, extreme climate variability, and resource limitations, understanding rhizomicrobiome functions and developing sustainable strategies to enhance them has become central to sustainable crop production. This review summarizes current knowledge of plant–rhizomicrobiome interactions, emphasizing the biological mechanisms and signaling pathways that regulate nutrient acquisition, abiotic and biotic stress responses, and rhizosphere microbial communities. It integrates evidence from symbiotic signaling, immune regulation, and microbial communication to demonstrate how coordinated plant–microbe interactions produce emergent effects on plant health and soil function. The review also examines how advances in molecular and omics-based technologies have transformed rhizomicrobiome research by enabling culture-independent, high-resolution analysis of microbial diversity, activity, and function within complex soil environments. Genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and related functional approaches have collectively shifted the field from descriptive community profiling toward mechanistic understanding. By synthesizing insights from biological mechanisms and molecular tools that have revealed plant–microbe interactions in the rhizosphere, this review offers an integrated framework for interpreting rhizomicrobiome function and linking molecular discoveries to improved production outcomes in agricultural systems. Collectively, these advances establish the rhizomicrobiome as a tractable biogeochemical system for exploring and enhancing soil health and crop resilience in sustainable agriculture.},
}

@article {pmid41806195,
year = {2026},
author = {Bavani, U and Sangwan, S and Narwal, E and Agnihotri, R and Prasanna, R and Bana, RS},
title = {Belowground-Aboveground climate allies: arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi as ecosystem bridges for greenhouse gas mitigation.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41806195},
issn = {1573-0972},
abstract = {Climate change, fuelled by rising greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, threatens ecosystems and global food security, necessitating innovative nature-based solutions. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), an ancient underground symbiosis, emerge as potent climate allies with the capacity to mitigate GHG emissions and enhance ecosystem resilience. By promoting root-derived carbon inputs, stabilizing soil aggregates, and producing glomalin, AMF enhance soil carbon sequestration, contributing to long-term soil organic matter storage. In wetland and rice systems, they influence methane dynamics by suppressing methanogenesis and stimulating methanotrophy. Their pivotal role in nitrogen cycling—improving plant N uptake efficiency and modulating nitrifier–denitrifier communities—helps lower nitrous oxide emissions, linking below-ground processes to above-ground climate benefits. Evidence across ecosystems shows that AMF-mediated functions are context-dependent and are influenced not only by agricultural management practices but also by broader anthropogenic activities (e.g., land-use change, fertilizer application, pollution) and climatic factors (e.g., temperature, precipitation, drought), yet they can be strengthened through sustainable management practices, including reduced tillage, cover cropping, and targeted inoculation. Recent molecular and omics-based insights, encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, and synthetic consortia approaches, provide mechanistic understanding and strategies to harness AMF for climate-smart agriculture. Despite their promise, methodological constraints, environmental variability, and limited long-term field studies have restricted their integration into policy and carbon accounting frameworks. Developing standardized indicators, ecosystem-specific models, and precision deployment strategies will be critical to scale AMF’s climate impact. Leveraging these underground allies can reduce GHG emissions, improve soil health, and support sustainable agricultural intensification, bridging below-ground symbioses with above-ground climate mitigation and global sustainability goals.},
}

@article {pmid41854803,
year = {2026},
author = {Das, A and Das, T and Ghosh, Z and Siddhanta, A},
title = {An intronic bidirectional promoter-driven lncRNA (LjPLR) putatively modulates a late nodulin gene during nodulation in Lotus japonicus.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41854803},
issn = {1573-4978},
support = {EMR/2017/004234//Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The development and functioning of root nodules in legumes are regulated by a cascade of gene expression events involving early and late nodulins. Early nodulins participate in infection and cortical cell division, whereas late nodulins support mature nodule function. Previously, a unique late nodulin gene, LjPLP-IV (Lotus japonicus phosphatidylinositol transfer protein-like protein IV), was identified. This gene contains a bidirectional promoter (BiP) within its tenth intron that drives the expression of both an antisense RNA and another late nodulin transcript. However, the antisense transcript remained largely unexplored. METHODS AND RESULTS: In this study, we characterized a novel long non-coding RNA, LjPLR (L. japonicus PLP-IV lncRNA), through strand-specific transcriptome analysis of L. japonicus nodules. Sequence alignment revealed that LjPLR is highly complementary to the sense strand of LjPLP-IV, with its first exon aligning precisely at the tenth exon–intron boundary of the LjPLP-IV gene. These results strongly suggest that LjPLR corresponds to the previously reported antisense RNA transcribed from the BiP. Real-time PCR analysis further demonstrated an inverse temporal expression pattern between LjPLR and LjPLP-IV during nodule development. CONCLUSION: Together with in silico target prediction analyses, our findings indicate that LjPLP-IV is the sole putative target of LjPLR. We therefore hypothesize that LjPLR likely regulates LjPLP-IV, a gene implicated in rhizobial infection of root cortical cells in L. japonicus. Collectively, these results provide novel insight into the regulatory landscape underlying symbiotic nitrogen fixation in L. japonicus.},
}

@article {pmid41920196,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, P and Singh, S and Praveen, A},
title = {Exploring the link between heavy metals detoxification and crop improvements.},
journal = {Protoplasma},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41920196},
issn = {1615-6102},
abstract = {Heavy metal (HM)/metalloids stresses have a detrimental effect on agriculture and the ecosystem because they impose severe strains on plants, which are sessile by nature, and cause extreme economic losses. It is imperative to safeguard crop plants from HMs to maintain sustainable agriculture and meet the global need for food from an ever-increasing population. Anthropogenic activities provide a threat to agricultural soils by contaminating them with toxic HMs, which can lead to an excessive build-up of arsenic (As), aluminium (Al), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg) in food crops. This offers serious health concerns to humans since they got merged into the food chain. Finding ways to stop these harmful metals from building up in food requires knowing how plants absorb, move, and break down these toxins. Therefore, in the present study, universal distribution, toxicity of HMs and their emergence in the food chain, uptake and transport, detoxification mechanisms in plants, and ways of crop improvement under HM stress conditions have been explored. Conventional remediation methods can be costly, labor intensive, and environmentally disruptive. HMs/metalloids generate oxidative stress, disrupts cellular homeostasis, inhibits photosynthesis, and interfered with nutritional uptake leading to significant yield losses in plants. To cope up these stresses, plants utilize complex molecular mechanisms for resilience such as antioxidant enzymes activation, metal’ transporters upregulation, formation of metal chelation complexes, and variation of stress related genes and transcription factors. In contrast bioremediation offers a sustainable and ecofriendly alternative by leveraging the detoxification capabilities of plants, microbes, and their symbiotic interactions. Practices like phytoremediation, microbial-assisted remediation, and combined approaches involving nanobiochar, biostimulants, and organic amendments have established promising outcomes in restoring HMs/metalloids contaminated soil. In this study we have attempted to outline the different HMs/metalloids toxicity, uptake, and detoxification in one place. This would reduce the obstacles to agricultural output and the world’s food demands while also assisting in understanding the better HMs’ resilience in crop plants.},
}

@article {pmid41933120,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, QC and Xu, M and Wei, S and Yang, QP and Zhang, J},
title = {The effects of ectomycorrhizal fungi inoculation on alleviating Cd stress in Pinus massoniana seedlings.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41933120},
issn = {1573-0972},
support = {31660150//National Nature Science Foundation of China (NSFC) project/ ; 31960234//National Nature Science Foundation of China (NSFC) project/ ; DJ-ZDXM-2023-07//Technology Project of Power Construction Corporation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF), through their symbiotic associations with plants, can effectively alleviate heavy metal toxicity in plants. Therefore, we inoculated Pinus massoniana with Suillus luteus and Suillus bovinus and exposed them to different Cd concentrations (0 mg/L and 80 mg/L CdCl2) for 20 days. Single inoculation with S. luteus and S. bovinus promoted root growth and differentiation to varying degrees, enhanced the glutathione reductase (GR) and catalase (CAT) levels in leaves. The glutathione (GSH) contents decreased in leaves and roots, whereas the malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased (although it remained significantly (p < 0.05) lower than that in the CK group. Total nitrogen (TN) decreased in leaves and roots, whereas Ca, Mg, and Mn increased in the leaves, and Fe, Mg, and Mn increased in the roots. The Cd leaf and root levels were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in the inoculated groups than in the CK. Mixed inoculation with S. luteus and S. bovinus resulted in higher Cd-translocation rates than single inoculation, whereas the Cd-retention rate was lower than found with single inoculation. These results indicate that EMF mitigate Cd-stress responses by promoting root growth, regulating nutrient element uptake, and enhancing antioxidant defense systems. These findings indicate that mycorrhizal symbiosis plays a potential role in Cd phytoremediation.},
}

@article {pmid41996045,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohanty, A and Pavan-Kumar, A and Chaudhari, A and Kumari, K and Kumar, P and Maurye, P},
title = {Comparative performance of traditional and commercial DNA extraction methods for fish gut microbiota analysis.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41996045},
issn = {1573-4978},
support = {FBT-PB1-01//Indian Council of Agricultural Research/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The symbiotic relationship between gut microbiota and their fish hosts has fuelled extensive research into microbial distribution besides their active role in host body metabolisms and paving the way for the sustainable aquaculture. This study aims to optimize and evaluate DNA extraction techniques for characterizing the gut microbiota of fish with diverse feeding habits: Hilsa (planktivorous), Catla (zooplankton feeder), Rohu (herbivorous), and Mrigal (illiophagus). METHODS AND RESULTS: Microbial genomic DNA was extracted using five traditional methods—PLICKS A, B, C, and CTAB (Methods D and E)—and three commercial kits (MN® Microbial, MN® Soil, and MN® Faecal), each with modifications. The efficacy of these methods was assessed based on DNA yield (traditional: 74–3070 ng/µL; commercial: 8.8–224 ng/µL), purity (traditional: A260/280: 1.38–1.92, A260/230: 1.03–2.21; commercial: A260/280: 1.30–3.25, A260/230: 0.5–2.0), and successful PCR amplification, a key step for downstream 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. Among traditional methods, PLICKS A (Catla), PLICKS C (Hilsa), CTAB (Mrigal and Catla), and PLICKS B (Catla, Rohu, Hilsa, Mrigal) delivered the highest DNA recovery (342–2080 ng/µL) and purity across different species. Similarly, among commercial kits, the MN® Microbial Modified Kit (Catla, Hilsa), MN® Soil Kit (Hilsa), MN® Soil Modified Kit (Catla, Rohu), MN® Faecal Kit (Catla), and MN® Modified Faecal Kit excelled, achieving optimal DNA recovery (108–224 ng/µL) and purity across various feeding habits. Overall, among traditional methods, PLICKS B proved to be the most effective, delivering high DNA yields (342–2080 ng/µL) with excellent purity (A260/280: 1.77–1.92; A260/230: 1.67–2.21) and enabling successful PCR amplification across fish species with diverse feeding habits. Similarly, among commercial kits, the MN Modified Faecal Kit achieved the highest DNA recovery (108–224 ng/µL) and purity (A260/280: 1.74–1.90; A260/230: 1.78–2.01), consistently supporting reliable amplification. CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight effective DNA extraction methods tailored to fish with different feeding habits. Careful selection and optimization of extraction protocols are therefore essential for the accurate characterization of fish gut microbiota.},
}

@article {pmid42020671,
year = {2026},
author = {Cruz, D and Saati-Santamaria, Z and Achury-Arrubla, L and Garcia-Fraile, P},
title = {From Wild to Farm: Gut Bacteriome Differences and Probiotic Potential of Pantoea Agglomerans in Two-Spotted Cricket (Gryllus Bimaculatus) Rearing.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42020671},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in insect nutrition and performance, yet its targeted exploitation in cricket farming remains underexplored. Here, we combined gut microbiota profiling of wild and farmed Gryllus bimaculatus with probiotic testing of host-derived bacterial isolates to explore microbiome-informed strategies for sustainable cricket farming. Wild crickets exhibited higher Shannon diversity but lower phylogenetic diversity than farmed counterparts. Wild populations were enriched in Oscillospiraceae and Christensenellaceae families, while farmed crickets showed higher abundance of Parabacteroides. From 199 bacterial isolates, wild populations showed higher frequencies of uricolytic capabilities (44% vs. 31%), related to nitrogen recycling, while farmed crickets had more pectinolytic isolates (70% vs. 50%), linked to plant fiber degradation. Pantoea agglomerans I53BLB, which demonstrated broad enzymatic capabilities, was selected for probiotic evaluation; we further provide its genome sequence and analysis to contextualize its metabolic and probiotic potential. A feeding experiment with a 2 × 3 factorial design (two diets × three probiotic treatments, n = 10 replicates per group) compared control chicken feed versus a high-fiber diet formulated with agricultural by-products, each supplemented with water, live or heat-inactivated P. agglomerans. A significant diet × probiotic interaction was observed for weight gain (χ[2] = 18.8, p = 0.0021) and adult emergence (χ[2] = 17.7, p = 0.0033). Live P. agglomerans enhanced performance only when combined with the high-fiber diet, with individuals reaching a mean wet weight of 0.602 g compared to 0.451 g (heat-inactivated, p = 0.035) and 0.427 g (water control, p = 0.003), and a significantly higher adult emergence rate (37%) compared to all other treatment combinations (13%, p < 0.05), suggesting a symbiotic effect likely related with carbohydrate digestion. No effects were observed on survival or reproductive output. Notably, the high-fiber diet alone performed comparably to commercial feed, suggesting potential for sustainable cricket production using agricultural by-products. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of microbiome informed probiotic strategies to enhance cricket farming efficiency while reducing feed costs.},
}

@article {pmid42020676,
year = {2026},
author = {Purohit, HV and Chakraborty, J and Kothari, RK and Bhatt, AR},
title = {Gene Exchange Mechanisms in Natural and Engineered Probiotics Within the Human Gut Implications for Antibiotic Resistance and Metabolic Modulation.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42020676},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {The human gut microbiome is a dynamic and densely populated ecosystem where microbial gene exchange plays a central role in shaping both ecological interactions and host physiology. This review critically examines the mechanisms and implications of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) among natural and engineered probiotics within the human gut, with a specific focus on antibiotic resistance dissemination and metabolic modulation. We provide an in-depth analysis of the molecular pathways of conjugation, transformation, and transduction under anaerobic gut conditions, highlighting their roles in the spread of mobile genetic elements, including antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and functional metabolic traits. Special emphasis is placed on the dual nature of gene exchange: while beneficial traits such as vitamin biosynthesis and polysaccharide degradation can be horizontally acquired to enhance probiotic efficacy and host-microbe symbiosis, the uncontrolled dissemination of ARGs or synthetic constructs poses significant clinical and ecological risks. Through a synthesis of recent findings from metagenomics, microbial ecology, and synthetic biology, we explore how natural probiotics may act as reservoirs of ARGs, and how engineered strains—if not properly contained—may contribute to genetic instability in the gut. We also evaluate current containment strategies such as chromosomal integration, kill switches, auxotrophy, and orthogonal circuit design to limit horizontal spread, alongside emerging tools for in situ gene transfer monitoring. Finally, we discuss regulatory challenges and propose a context-dependent risk assessment framework in which the consequences of probiotic gene exchange are determined by cargo properties, host ecological niche, gut inflammatory status, and biocontainment design.},
}

@article {pmid42032013,
year = {2026},
author = {Carrizosa, R and Padilla, I and Romero, M and López-Delgado, A},
title = {Harnessing salt slag and diatomite sludge by co-recycling for zeolite production.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-50164-3},
pmid = {42032013},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {Developing alternative uses for waste is one of the main concerns of modern industry, as proper waste management is necessary to pave the way towards a circular economy and sustainability. In this study, the sustainable synthesis of zeolites using salt slag, a hazardous waste product from the secondary aluminium industry, and diatomite sludge, an agri-food waste product, was explored. The aluminium salt slag and diatomite sludge served as the aluminium and silicon sources, respectively, for the LTA and NaP zeolite formulations through a one-pot hydrothermal process. The key synthesis parameters, temperature (70–90 °C), reaction time (2–24 h), and NaOH concentration (0.38–1 M), were systematically varied to adjust the type, crystallinity and textural properties of the zeolites. The synthesised materials exhibited specific surface areas of 12.7–22.5 m2 g−1 and cation exchange capacities ranging from 1.57 to 2.54 meq g−1. FTIR analysis confirmed the formation of zeolitic phases, whereas microstructural characterisation revealed a progressive topotactic transformation from cubic LTA to NaP crystalline aggregates. These findings demonstrate the potential of this approach to produce functional zeolites and promote circular economy practices by co-recycling industrial waste through industrial symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid42053608,
year = {2026},
author = {Çağatay, NS and Dageri, A and Saruhan, I and Tuncer, C and Guz, N},
title = {Diversity and Composition of the Microbiome Associated with Adult of the Green Shield Bug Palomena prasina (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae).},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00248-026-02779-2},
pmid = {42053608},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {Project number: 116O328//Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştırma Kurumu/ ; },
abstract = {Hazelnut is a major export commodity for Türkiye, the world’s leading producer, yet pest pressure in hazelnut orchards has caused substantial quantitative and qualitative yield losses in recent years. Among emerging pests, the green shield bug (GSB) Palomena prasina (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) has become a key threat due to direct feeding on developing fruits. Despite its increasing economic relevance, the microbial community associated with P. prasina remains poorly characterized. Here, we present the first comprehensive analysis of the bacterial community associated with P. prasina using 16 S rRNA gene metabarcoding combined with prevalence screening and phylogenetic analyses. A total of 36 bacterial taxa were detected across sampled populations, with Pantoea and Sodalis identified as the dominant genera. Bacterial diversity did not differ significantly between sexes or among geographic locations, indicating a relatively stable microbial community. Prevalence analyses revealed that Pantoea spp. were present in all examined individuals, whereas Sodalis spp. showed variable infection frequencies among populations. Phylogenetic reconstruction indicated contrasting evolutionary patterns between these dominant taxa, with Pantoea lineages displaying a polyphyletic structure suggestive of repeated environmental acquisition, while Sodalis sequences formed a more cohesive, host-associated lineage consistent with a facultative symbiotic lifestyle. Overall, these findings improve our understanding of stink bug-microbe associations and provide an ecological framework for future studies exploring symbiont-based pest management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42287489,
year = {2026},
author = {da Silveira Bastos, IMA and Cardoso, MS and Laux, M and Ribeiro, RR and García, GJY and Bahia, PA and de Sousa, PMV and Alves, BGT and de Rezende, DHC and Rosado, AS and Bezerra, JDP and Landell, MF and Melo, VMM and Tavares, TCL and Góes-Neto, A},
title = {Worldwide diversity and ecology of mangrove fungi: a systematic review of ITS metabarcoding studies and a quantitative, integrative analysis of raw sequence data.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {42287489},
issn = {1573-0972},
mesh = {*Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; *DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic ; *Biodiversity ; *Wetlands ; *Mycobiome ; Basidiomycota/genetics/classification ; Geologic Sediments/microbiology ; *Rhizophoraceae/microbiology ; Ecosystem ; Ascomycota/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {Fungi are integral components of the mangrove microbiome, playing critical roles in decomposition, nutrient cycling, and symbiosis. Our study synthesizes the findings from a global systematic review of fungal ITS metabarcoding studies conducted in mangrove ecosystems. This review consolidates data from 23 original research articles (1,154 samples) and provides a comprehensive overview of the diversity, community structure, and ecological functions of fungi in these critical coastal habitats. The analyses revealed a consistent core fungal mycobiome in mangroves worldwide. This community is dominated by Ascomycota, with Basidiomycota as the second most abundant phylum. A consistent set of ten highly abundant genera underpins this core community, and fungal diversity and composition are strongly influenced by the specific substrate. Non-rhizospheric sediment harbors the highest diversity, while live plant organs host a more specialized and less diverse community, slightly dominated by potential plant pathogens. Rhizospheric sediment supports a unique assemblage rich in wood-decomposing fungi. The primary ecological role of fungi in mangroves is decomposition, which is essential for breaking down lignocellulosic litter, cycling nutrients, and storing carbon in sediments. A surprisingly high relative abundance of fungi classified as plant pathogens was identified on mangrove plant tissues, suggesting an underappreciated role of fungal diseases in these ecosystems. Metabarcoding provides a far broader view of fungal diversity than traditional collection and culturing methods. It has uncovered a vast number of uncultured taxa and has been particularly effective in revealing the significant, and likely underestimated, presence of macrofungi in mangrove soils. Our study also highlights that current short-read metabarcoding can severely underestimate certain fungal groups, particularly the endomycorrhizal Glomeromycota, due to technical limitations. Altogether, our synthesis provides a global baseline against which future mangrove mycobiome studies can be benchmarked.},
}

*Fungi/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
*DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic
*Biodiversity
*Wetlands
*Mycobiome
Basidiomycota/genetics/classification
Geologic Sediments/microbiology
*Rhizophoraceae/microbiology
Ecosystem
Ascomycota/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Phylogeny

@article {pmid42287895,
year = {2026},
author = {Yao, Z and Lin, G and Liu, Y and Zhang, J},
title = {Mechanisms for the phytohormone-elevated performance of a continuous-flow baffled cyanobacterial photo-bioreactor for antibiotic removal and lipid production.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {303},
number = {},
pages = {126283},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.126283},
pmid = {42287895},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {A mixture of Synechococcus sp., Chroococcus sp., and Synechocystis sp. was immobilized in indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)-supplemented calcium alginate beads and then placed into a four-compartment baffled photo-bioreactor. A 30-day continuous-flow treatment of secondary effluent wastewater using this system achieved removal rates of 74.08-85.12% for COD, 87.52-96.89% for TN, 95.36-99.26% for TP, 84.02-88.36% for cefalexin, 67.15-75.57% for erythromycin, 91.17-96.05% for oxytetracycline, and 74.76-78.87% for norfloxacin. Chroococcus sp. contributed the most to pollutant removal, with its abundance negatively correlated with the concentrations of all pollutants. Bacterial colonization within cyanobacterial beads, upregulated genes involved in signal transduction, quorum sensing, and biofilm formation, as well as correlations between cyanobacteria and seven bacterial genera (Acidovorax, Chitinophaga, Massilia, Algoriphagus, Chryseobacterium, Comamonas, and Candidatus) together confirmed the formation of a cyanobacteria-bacteria consortium. Efficient pollutant removal was attributed to the high cyanobacterial biomass stimulated by IAA and the activation of genes related to stress response, the TCA cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, and pollutant metabolism in bead microorganisms. Reduced abundances of antibiotic resistance genes in the effluent may result from activated mismatch repair pathway and suppressed horizontal gene transfer. Antibiotics, the symbiotic bacterium Azospirillum, and IAA jointly stimulated cyanobacterial growth and lipid accumulation, contributing to a high cyanobacterial lipid productivity of 47.59-51.82 mg/(L·d), mainly through the upregulation of genes involved in the Calvin cycle, pentose phosphate pathway, and fatty acid biosynthesis. Overall, this study provides a sustainable strategy integrating pollutant removal, resistance control, and resource recovery.},
}

@article {pmid42289283,
year = {2026},
author = {Noda, M and Ito, M and Miyata, K and Suzaki, T},
title = {Nonnodulating Fagales retain the functional NODULE INCEPTION gene.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71337},
pmid = {42289283},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {JPMJAN23D2//Japan Science and Technology Agency/ ; JPMJSP2124//Japan Science and Technology Agency/ ; JP23K27188//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; JP25H01345//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; JP26K02024//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; },
abstract = {NODULE INCEPTION orthologs are present in nonnodulating species in Fagales.},
}

@article {pmid42289648,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, C and Ding, Z and Guo, Y and Ma, X and Li, J and Guo, L},
title = {Sex-specific adaptive strategies and rhizosphere microbiome responses to drought stress in Bouteloua dactyloides.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-05275-2},
pmid = {42289648},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {LJKMZ20221053//Foundation of Liaoning Province Education Administration/ ; X2021012//Shenyang Agricultural University/ ; },
abstract = {Drought is becoming more frequent and severe under global climate change. Bouteloua dactyloides (Nutt.) (hereafter, B. dactyloides) is a dioecious, drought-tolerant warm-season turfgrass, but whether males and females use different adaptive strategies under drought remains unclear. We conducted a pot experiment to compare male and female plants under well-watered (90% field capacity) and drought-stressed (30% field capacity) conditions. We hypothesized that male and female B. dactyloides plants would exhibit sex-specific adaptive strategies in physiological traits and rhizosphere microbial communities under drought stress. Drought increased malondialdehyde and proline contents and enhanced superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase activities in both sexes, while peroxidase activity decreased. Under well-watered conditions, females had a higher drought resistance index than males, whereas no significant sex difference was detected under drought. Sex-specific responses were still evident; females showed a higher root-shoot ratio, whereas males exhibited increased catalase (CAT) activity. Drought and plant sex also jointly altered rhizosphere microbial communities. Drought increased fungal alpha diversity only in males, whose rhizospheres were enriched in Basidiomycota and Glomeromycota. Drought suppressed bacterial aerobic metabolism and sulfur respiration functions, as well as saprotrophic and pathogenic fungi in both sexes. Notably, male rhizospheres were significantly enriched in symbiotic fungi, particularly arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Overall, female B. dactyloides mainly enhances drought adaptation through morphological plasticity, whereas males rely more on a microbiome-mediated strategy centered on AMF recruitment. These findings reveal sex-specific physiological and rhizosphere microbiome adaptation pathways and underscore the role of the microbiome in drought response, providing a basis for cultivar selection in arid-region turf management.},
}

@article {pmid42289812,
year = {2026},
author = {Pellegrinetti, TA and Santos, AA and Molligan, J and Pérez-López, E},
title = {Can the leafhopper microbiome unlock new strategies for its control?.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toag166},
pmid = {42289812},
issn = {1938-291X},
abstract = {Leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) are significant agricultural pests worldwide, causing direct feeding injury and transmitting plant pathogens. Conventional management still relies heavily on insecticides, but resistance development, non-target effects, and environmental concerns increasingly limit their effectiveness. Recent progress in leveraging insect microbiomes for sustainable pest control, mostly in well-studied groups such as mosquitoes, whiteflies, and aphids, suggests that symbiotic manipulation could offer new tools. Whether such strategies can be developed for leafhoppers remains an open question, given how little is currently known about their microbial partnerships. Here, we synthesize current knowledge of leafhopper-associated microbial communities and evaluate approaches that could complement existing integrated pest management programs. We discuss approaches ranging from the characterization and isolation of symbionts to biotechnology strategies. We present a case study examining microbiome dynamics in the corn leafhopper (Dalbulus maidis) as a conceptual demonstration of how microbiome data can generate testable management hypotheses. We highlight both the opportunities and challenges associated with manipulating microbial partners, including ecological predictability, host specificity, and evolutionary feedback. Framing leafhoppers as holobionts, our review outlines a roadmap for translating microbiome research into compatible control technologies for agricultural systems.},
}

@article {pmid42290043,
year = {2026},
author = {Mullally, ME and Bond, LJ and Palepu, RR and Young, JS and Frei, DR},
title = {Evaluation of novel materials for front-of-neck access simulations.},
journal = {Anaesthesia and intensive care},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {310057X261443357},
doi = {10.1177/0310057X261443357},
pmid = {42290043},
issn = {0310-057X},
abstract = {Neck rescue encompasses a variety of techniques and terms used to describe direct access to the trachea to allow delivery of oxygen into the airway, typically in the context of a 'can't intubate, can't oxygenate' (CICO) scenario. Anaesthetists rely on CICO simulation exercises to obtain competency in neck rescue using commercially available plastic airway models. Recently, innovations in three-dimensional (3D)-printed airway models and 'symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast' (SCOBY) skins have been trialled for CICO training. We undertook a study to compare the fidelity of a 3D-printed airway model and SCOBY skin model with a commercially available plastic and foam model (Crico-Trainer 'Frova', VBM-Medizintechnik GmbH, Sulz am Neckar, Germany) trialled by 27 volunteer anaesthesia specialists and trainees. Study participants performed neck rescue on all model variants and provided structured feedback. The 3D-printed model with SCOBY skin was found to have the highest fidelity for neck rescue training and was the model preferred by most participants. Model fidelity, environmental impact, and ethical considerations were rated as important or very important by participants. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings in other hospital settings.},
}