@article {pmid41863048,
year = {2026},
author = {Sethu Madhavan, A and Müller, LM},
title = {Balancing mutualism: choice and sanctions in root-microbe symbioses.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71107},
pmid = {41863048},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {2022-67013-42820//National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; },
abstract = {Plant roots form symbioses with beneficial microorganisms to enhance nutrient acquisition. Most terrestrial plants form arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis (AMS) with obligate biotrophic Glomeromycotina fungi, which supply hosts with mineral nutrients in exchange for carbon through specialized symbiotic hyphal structures (arbuscules) that develop within root cortex cells. Legumes form root nodule symbiosis (RNS) with nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, which are housed as differentiated bacteroids within specialized symbiotic organs (nodules) and provide plants with ammonia in return for carbon. RNS exhibits high partner specificity, occurring only between compatible hosts and microbes. Conversely, AMS is less specific, although symbiosis outcomes are context-dependent and influenced by host and fungal genotype, environmental conditions, and microbial competition. In both cases, plants favor high-performing microsymbionts by recognizing them during symbiosis initiation or by punishing low-performing symbionts through postcolonization sanctions. Microbes, in turn, employ strategies to manipulate plants for their own benefit. Here, we review the molecular mechanisms underlying partner preference in beneficial plant-microbe interactions and discuss how host partner selection strategies maintain mutualistic stability in AMS and RNS, alongside microbial strategies to evade host control. Understanding the dynamic interplay of functionally diverse plant-microbe symbioses provides a basis for improving mutualisms in both natural and agricultural systems.},
}

@article {pmid41857304,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Z and Xu, M and Yao, J and Yu, Y and Hu, B and Wang, Y and Wang, Y and Zhang, X},
title = {Review of electroencephalography and electromyography research in robotics: opportunities and challenges.},
journal = {Visual computing for industry, biomedicine, and art},
volume = {9},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41857304},
issn = {2524-4442},
support = {62072388//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024HZ01040037//Fujian Provincial Science and Technology Major Project/ ; 20244BAB28039//Jiangxi Provincial Natural Science Foundation Key Project/ ; 3502Z20231043//Xiamen Public Technology Service Platform/ ; },
abstract = {In the evolving nexus of neuroscience and robotics, the symbiotic fusion of electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) is emerging as a paradigm-shifting avenue for enhancing human-machine interfaces. While EEG, which captures the subtle electrical nuances of the brain, offers a potent channel for nuanced brain-machine communication, EMG serves as a bridge, converting neuromuscular intentions into actionable directives for robotic apparatuses. This review highlights the current methodologies in which EEG and EMG not only function in silos but also converge harmoniously to dictate robotic control. By delving deeper into this, the intricate synergy between cognitive processes, muscular responses, and machine actions can be unraveled. Subsequently, the discourse also navigates through the myriad challenges encountered in realizing real-time, seamless integration of these bio-signals with robotics and the innovative solutions poised to address them. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between neuroscience and robotics. This insight will help drive breakthroughs in adaptive human-machine collaboration.},
}

@article {pmid41857631,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, C and Zheng, Z and Lucas, JR and Li, A and Feng, J and Zhang, C and Jiang, T},
title = {Geographical variation of chemical signals and odor discrimination in the great Himalayan leaf-nosed bat (Hipposideros armiger).},
journal = {BMC biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12915-026-02576-w},
pmid = {41857631},
issn = {1741-7007},
support = {32300392//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32400377//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32371562//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023M730913//Postdoctoral Research Foundation of China/ ; C2023205010//Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province/ ; C2023205017//Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province/ ; BJ2025044//Science Research Project of Hebei Education Department/ ; C20230345//Hebei Province to introduce overseas students funding project/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Signal divergence and sensory preferences may cause reproductive isolation and eventually speciation between animal populations. These patterns are particularly well known in systems with acoustic or visual signals. However, relatively few studies have quantified the patterns, causes and consequences of geographical variation of chemical signals, especially in mammalian populations.

RESULTS: We examined Hipposideros armiger (the great Himalayan leaf-nosed bat) and collected secretions from the forehead glands of males. We selected nine colonies across a large geographic area and investigated both the potential causes and patterns of variation in chemical signals from that gland between these colonies. We also examined whether or not males could tell the difference between gland scents from a foreign colony and their own colony using habituation-discrimination tests. To determine whether females preferred the scent of local versus foreign males, we performed two-choice tests. Overall, we found significant colony-level differences in the concentrations of compounds and in general compound categories. We show that symbiotic microbes inhabiting odor glands may explain the observed chemical variation between colonies. Moreover, behavioral studies indicated that males were able to discriminate between gland scents from their own colony and those from a distant colony. Finally, females were more attracted to scents of local males from their own colony compared to scents from foreign colonies.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate significant geographical variation in colony chemical signals linked to gland symbiotic microbes, with males discriminating colony-specific scents and females preferring the gland scents of local males. This study expands our limited knowledge of geographical variation of mammalian chemical signals and highlights the importance of bacterial communities in shaping chemical divergence.},
}

@article {pmid41858307,
year = {2026},
author = {Luu, CX and Geddes, BA},
title = {Engineering and Evaluation of Sinorhizobium meliloti Nodulation (nod) Gene Reporter Systems in Rhizobia and Non-Rhizobia.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {28},
number = {3},
pages = {e70284},
doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.70284},
pmid = {41858307},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {FF-NIA21-0000000061//New Innovator in Food & Agricultural Research (FFAR)/ ; //Richard and Linda Offerdahl Faculty Fellowship/ ; },
mesh = {*Sinorhizobium meliloti/genetics/metabolism ; Nitrogen Fixation ; *Genes, Reporter ; Symbiosis ; Plant Root Nodulation/genetics ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology ; Promoter Regions, Genetic ; Genetic Engineering ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Rhizobium/genetics ; },
abstract = {Developing N2-fixing partnerships between diazotrophs and non-legumes can enhance soil fertility and reduce dependence on synthetic fertilisers. Unlike legumes, non-legumes lack the genetic ability to form root nodule symbiosis with rhizobia but can form facultative associations with free-living diazotrophs. Engineering these microbes by transferring key traits underlying efficient nodule formation and N2-fixation from well-characterised rhizobia represents a central aim in synthetic biology to enhance biological nitrogen fixation in non-legumes. However, the lack of effective tools for identifying compatible and engineerable microbial partners is a key challenge. To address this, we have developed nodulation (nod) gene reporters to screen both rhizobia and non-rhizobia capable of expressing Sinorhizobium meliloti nod genes, which encode bacterial signals initiating nodule formation in legumes. The biosensors include a superfolder GFP reporter controlled by the inducible nod box promoter (PnodA), plant signal-dependent activators nodD1 and nodD2, and a constitutively mScarlet-I marker, named nodD1-PnodA and nodD2-PnodA. Their functionality was validated across diverse rhizobia and non-rhizobia using in vitro and in planta induction assays. This reporter system enables high-throughput identification of novel bacteria capable of recognising and responding to legume signalling molecules that coordinate symbiotic nitrogen fixation.},
}

*Sinorhizobium meliloti/genetics/metabolism
Nitrogen Fixation
*Genes, Reporter
Symbiosis
Plant Root Nodulation/genetics
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology
Promoter Regions, Genetic
Genetic Engineering
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Rhizobium/genetics

@article {pmid41858674,
year = {2026},
author = {Zholdasbek, A and Tekebayeva, Z and Kulzhanova, K and Abzhalelov, A and Bekshin, Z and Yevneyeva, D and Saylau, M and Li, X and Tan, Z and Wang, Z and Temirkhanov, A and Nurbekova, Z},
title = {Microbiome and plant relationship: a symbiosis against phytopathogens.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1722279},
pmid = {41858674},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Phytopathogens are among the major biotic stressors limiting global crop productivity. Conventional control methods, including chemical pesticides and fungicides, have contributed to pathogen resistance, environmental pollution, and soil degradation, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. This review highlights innovative, eco-friendly strategies that exploit plant-microbe interactions to enhance plant health and resilience across diverse agroecosystems. Rhizosphere-, phyllosphere-, and endosphere-associated microbial assemblages contribute to plant immune enhancement through induced systemic resistance, competitive nutrient exclusion, antimicrobial metabolite production, and mycoparasitism. The review emphasizes the functional roles of beneficial microbial communities and the emerging applications of synthetic consortia and bio-organic fertilizers to improving disease suppression, nutrient use efficiency, and soil fertility. In addition, recent progress in omics-based tools and microbial formulation technologies is discussed as a key driver for translating laboratory findings into practical field applications. However, large-scale implementation remains challenged by high research costs, limited metagenomic infrastructure, and the lack of standardized microbial formulations across environments. Strengthening institutional capacity, integrating omics-based tools, and improving technology transfer will be essential to unlock the full potential of microbiome-based pathogen control. Overall, this review highlights microbiome-based interventions as a sustainable alternative to chemical-intensive plant protection strategies under changing environmental conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41859449,
year = {2026},
author = {Han, Y and Huang, H and Zhang, Z and Li, X and Li, T and Zong, S},
title = {Microbiome and metabolome dynamics in phloem and rhizosphere of Pinus tabuliformis against Dendroctonus valens infestation.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1754801},
pmid = {41859449},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Microbial communities play essential roles in mediating plant defenses against insect pests. However, how host-associated microbiota and metabolites jointly respond to bark beetle infestation remains largely unexplored. Here, we integrated microbiome and metabolome profiling to elucidate how Pinus tabuliformis regulates its phloem and rhizosphere responses under varying levels of Dendroctonus valens infestation. Both bacterial and fungal diversity, as well as the relative abundance of dominant taxa such as Erwinia and Pseudoxanthomonas, shifted significantly with infestation intensity. Concurrently, key plant defense metabolites-including terpenoids, jasmonates, and polyphenols-were markedly elevated. Pathway enrichment analysis indicated that the phloem was characterized by enhanced phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis, whereas the rhizosphere soil accumulated terpenoids and polyketides, implicating both compartments in resistance modulation. In the phloem, differential bacterial and fungal taxa displayed distinct positive and negative correlations with phenylpropanoid intermediates and downstream derivatives, while in the rhizosphere, bacteria from Bacillota and fungi such as Candida and Ogataea were strongly linked to diterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, flavonoids, and indole derivatives. These findings demonstrate that P. tabuliformis mounts a compartment-specific, microbiome-associated metabolic response to D. valens infestation, providing new insights into the ecological roles of symbiotic microbiota in plant defense and offering a mechanistic foundation for microbe-based pest management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41859893,
year = {2026},
author = {Mugambi, K and Oliveira, J and Magurno, F and di Fossalunga, AS and Novero, M and Lanfranco, L and Ghignone, S and Yildirir, G and Wang, Y and Bonfante, P and Corradi, N},
title = {The 3D genome of Gigaspora margarita unveils stable chromatin and nucleolar organization and symbiont-dependent genome dynamics.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71100},
pmid = {41859893},
issn = {1469-8137},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are widespread plant symbionts that enhance nutrient acquisition and influence ecosystem productivity. Previous chromosome-level assemblies of the model species Rhizophagus irregularis revealed a two-compartment genome architecture (active A and repressed B chromatin compartments), yet its conservation across evolutionarily distant AMF lineages remains unresolved. Here, we present a chromosome-scale and 3D genome assembly of Gigaspora margarita isolate BEG34 - the largest and most repeat-rich AMF genome to date - alongside that of its obligate endobacterium, Candidatus Glomerobacter gigasporarum (CaGg), using PacBio HiFi and Hi-C sequencing. The G. margarita genome comprises 43 chromosomes (792 Mb) organized into A/B compartments and Topologically Associating Domains, structures that are conserved across two AMF orders and remain stable irrespective of the presence of endobacteria in germinating spores. We uncover 21 divergent rDNA operons distributed across six chromosomes and show that these physically interact, suggesting conserved nucleolar organization. We also reveal that the CaGg genome is tripartite and mobilome-rich, encoding prophages, an orphan CRISPR array, and complete pathways for many novel and essential cofactors, including heme, which may enhance host bioenergetics. We also find that the endobacterium's presence modulates transposable elements expression in G. margarita. These findings reveal conserved principles of chromatin architecture in AMF symbionts and highlight the tight molecular interplay between fungal hosts and their endosymbionts, offering new insights into genome evolution and symbiotic adaptation.},
}

@article {pmid41859969,
year = {2026},
author = {El-Beltagi, HS and Gad, M and Khedr, N and Abdel-Haleem, M and Al Saikhan, MS and Shalaby, TA and El-Mogy, MM and Khedr, EH},
title = {Strigolactones as Integrative Regulators of Plant Adaptation and Resilience to Abiotic Stress.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70490},
pmid = {41859969},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {KFU254323//Deanship of Scientific Research, Vice Presidency for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia/ ; },
abstract = {Climate change represents a major global challenge, intensifying abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity and temperature extremes, that severely constrain productivity and threaten food security. To survive under such fluctuating and adverse environments, plants depend on intricate hormonal signalling networks that coordinate growth regulation, resource allocation and stress adaptation. Among these, strigolactones (SLs) have emerged as integrative regulators that bridge developmental control with environmental responsiveness, thereby enhancing plant resilience to climate-induced stresses. Initially discovered as rhizospheric signals influencing parasitic weed germination and symbiotic associations, SLs are now recognized as multifunctional phytohormones regulating shoot branching, root system architecture, senescence and reproductive growth. SLs encounter in extensive crosstalk with other hormones notably abscisic acid, auxins and cytokinins to modulate physiological and molecular responses under stress. This review consolidates recent advances in understanding the role of SLs as central mediators of plant adaptation to climate-induced abiotic stresses, emphasizing their integrative signalling roles and interactions with other phytohormones. It also explores emerging molecular, genetic and biotechnological strategies targeting SL pathways for enhancing stress resilience. Unravelling the complex SL signalling network delivers key conceptual inputs for providing climate-smart crops capable of sustaining productivity and stability under the increasing pressures of global climate change.},
}

@article {pmid41859980,
year = {2026},
author = {Akebota, N and Ma, RF and Yang, HQ and Li, YD and He, K and Liu, HY and Tang, KY and Zhu, Y},
title = {Behavioral smearing and physiological secretions drive divergent microbiome assembly during breeding in the crested ibis.},
journal = {Zoological research},
volume = {47},
number = {2},
pages = {361-373},
doi = {10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2025.407},
pmid = {41859980},
issn = {2095-8137},
mesh = {Animals ; *Microbiota/physiology ; *Birds/physiology/microbiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Feathers/microbiology ; Seasons ; Reproduction/physiology ; Bacteria/classification/genetics ; },
abstract = {Host-microbiota interactions represent a key axis in animal adaptation, especially in species displaying pronounced seasonal variation in behavior and physiology. In avian species, behavioral processes associated with reproduction may influence symbiotic microbial communities, yet the underlying mechanisms remain poorly resolved. The endangered crested ibis (Nipponia nippon) exhibits a distinctive seasonal transition in plumage coloration, shifting from white in the non-breeding period to gray during breeding, a change linked to smearing behavior and deposition of black secretions from the neck region. In the present study, 16S rRNA sequencing across three body sites was performed to profile body surface microbiomes during breeding (gray-feather) and non-breeding (white-feather) stages. Breeding individuals exhibited lower microbial diversity, consistent with an influence of black neck secretions on microbiome structure. Microbial communities were differentiated more strongly by season than by body site, and microbial similarity among body sites increased during breeding, supporting redistribution of microbes through smearing behavior. Community assembly also showed clear season- and site-specific variation. Neck feathers exhibited a 36.5% better fit to the neutral model, indicating a stronger contribution of stochastic assembly, likely associated with microbial dispersal during smearing of black secretions. In contrast, neck skin showed a 36.3% lower neutrality and 11.87% more host-selected variants, indicating stronger deterministic selection associated with breeding-related secretions. These findings support a dual regulatory framework during breeding, in which behavioral smearing promotes microbial dispersal while physiological secretion strengthens host filtering. Such coordinated regulation likely drives seasonal microbiome variation and contributes to seasonal adaptation. Overall, this work provides novel insight into the integration of behavior and physiology in shaping host-microbiota interactions during critical life stages and establishes a microbiome-based perspective for crested ibis conservation.},
}

Animals
*Microbiota/physiology
*Birds/physiology/microbiology
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Feathers/microbiology
Seasons
Reproduction/physiology
Bacteria/classification/genetics

@article {pmid41861559,
year = {2026},
author = {Feng, Y and Zheng, R and Kong, L and Zhang, Z and Chen, B and Liu, S},
title = {Cross-feeding supports the growth of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria with reduced genomes during evolution.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {297},
number = {},
pages = {125714},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125714},
pmid = {41861559},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Bacteria usually lose redundant genes to reduce genome sizes during evolution to achieve high metabolic efficiency. Here, we combined molecular clock with flux balance analysis to propose that ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB), which are crucial for the global nitrogen cycle, have lost genes involved in essential metabolite biosynthesis during genome reduction and consequently rely on metabolic cross-feeding. A newly evolved ammonia-oxidizing bacteria originating in the Phanerozoic time with a genome size of 2.17 Mb lost genes necessary for synthetizing amino acids (asparagine and methionine, etc.), from the older AOB species originating in the Proterozoic time with genome sizes of 4.53 Mb. Symbiotic bacteria supplied these essential amino acids and dipeptides to newly evolved AOB to support their growth. Meanwhile, AOB degraded the absorbed dipeptides into amino acids or synthesized dipeptides from absorbed amino acids to trade with the symbiotic bacteria, establishing a strong mutually supportive relationship. Newly evolved AOB with reduced genomes in the Yangtze River absorb amino acids and dipeptides from other bacteria, resulting in a growth rate increase of 172.8% compared to those old AOB. This study hints the microbial division of labor becomes refined to improve metabolic efficiency during evolution and the roles of cross feedings in driving gene reduction.},
}

@article {pmid41861702,
year = {2026},
author = {Chaddad, Z and Kaddouri, K and Lamrabet, M and Alami, S and Mnasri, B and Wipf, D and Courty, PE and Missbah El Idrissi, M},
title = {Bradyrhizobium zaerense sp. nov., an efficient symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacterium isolated from Lupinus luteus and Retama dasycarpa root nodules.},
journal = {Systematic and applied microbiology},
volume = {49},
number = {3},
pages = {126712},
doi = {10.1016/j.syapm.2026.126712},
pmid = {41861702},
issn = {1618-0984},
abstract = {Three strains, LLZ isolated from root nodules of Lupinus luteus in agricultural soils in the vicinity of Rabat, and seven strains RDM, isolated from nodules of Retama dasycarpa in Maamora forest soil, were assigned to a new lineage within the genus Bradyrhizobium. The present study provides a detailed taxonomic analysis of the representative strain LLZ17[T]. Genome analysis revealed average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values far below the threshold (88.4% and 34%, respectively) with the closest type strains B. hipponense, B. rifense, and B. cytisi. Phylogenetic analyses using 81 up-to-date bacteria core genes and whole genome sequences grouped LLZ17[T] and RDM4 in a highly supported lineage, distinct from described Bradyrhizobium species. The complete genome of LLZ17[T] consists of a single 7.8 Mbp chromosome with a GC content of 63.19% and contains nitrogen fixation and nodulation genes required when forming root symbiosis. Furthermore, strains LLZ13, LLZ15, RDM4, RDM7, RDM9, RDM14, RDM15, RDM18, RDM30 and LLZ17[T] were described phenotypically and compared with their closest Bradyrhizobium-type strains. Genomic and phenotypic characterization confirmed the ten strains are novel species. Strain LLZ17[T] was designated as the type strain of this new species, for which the name Bradyrhizobium zaerense sp. nov. is proposed.},
}

@article {pmid41673866,
year = {2026},
author = {Alfattah, MA and Metwally, MGE and Alharbi, HM and Alwutayd, KM and Sindi, RA and Bahgat, LB and Naiel, MAE and El-Haroun, E and Abdelnour, SA and Moussa, M},
title = {Dictyota dichotoma extract as a potential nutraceutical for male fertility: insights into semen quality, testicular histology, immunomodulation, and anti-inflammatory markers in rabbit bucks.},
journal = {BMC veterinary research},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41673866},
issn = {1746-6148},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: This study investigated for the first time the potential symbiotic effects of using Dictyota dichotoma extract (DDE) to enhance reproductive health in bucks. The study examined semen quality, immune function, blood biochemistry, inflammatory markers, antioxidant status, testicular histology, and seminal plasma contents in rabbit bucks. A total of forty bucks (n = 10 in each group) were randomly allocated into four groups and fed a basal diet with 0, 100, 200, and 400 mg of DDE/kg diets for 3 months. The results indicated that DDE (200 mg/kg) treatment linearly enhanced sperm concentration, membrane function, motility, and viability (P < 0.01), while significantly reducing sperm abnormalities in a quadratic trend (P < 0.05). Serum concentrations of total glycerides and lactate dehydrogenase decreased linearly, while creatinine, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and urea levels exhibited a significant quadratic reduction (p < 0.01) in rabbits fed DDE-supplemented diets. Dietary DDE (200 or 400 mg/kg) inclusion linearly increased plasma SOD, GPX (quadratic effect, p < 0.01) and catalase activities, while quadratically decreased MDA levels (p < 0.01). Immunological parameters, including IgG and nitric oxide levels, exhibited a significant linear increase (p < 0.01) with the best dose 200 mg of DDE supplementation. Similarly, IgM levels and lysozyme activity were quadratically improved in groups fed DDE-fortified diets (p < 0.01). DDE supplementation (400 mg /kg) quadratically reduced capaspae-3 and IFN-γ (p < 0.01) and linearly decreased Bcl-2 (p < 0.01). In contrast, cytochrome C levels were quadratically enhanced across the DDE treatment groups (p < 0.01). DDE inclusion linearly improved seminal antioxidant activities SOD, and CAT and quadratically improved GPX (p < 0.01). Additionally, seminal plasma MDA levels were linearly reduced by DDE treatment (p < 0.01). In sperm cells, the activities of mitochondrial enzymes such as MDH (quadratic effect, p < 0.01) and SDH (linear effect, p < 0.001) were significantly improved in all DDE-supplemented groups compared to the control group. Histology, the DDE treatment enhanced the testicular integrity as evidenced by an increase in the numbers and diameters of seminiferous tubules (ST), as well as the heights of the germinal epithelium of ST (p < 0.05). Overall, dietary inclusion of DDE may have beneficial effects on the reproductive health of bucks by regulating sperm function, blood health, improving antioxidant and immune responses, and reducing inflammatory signaling.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-026-05307-z.},
}

@article {pmid41851401,
year = {2026},
author = {Ohmoto, H and Ferry, JG},
title = {The hydrogen, methane and ammonia biosphere on early Earth.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-43917-7},
pmid = {41851401},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {Current paradigms for the origin and evolutions of life and the environment on early Earth have been based on the premises that carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen gas (N2) were the principal constituents of the atmosphere and the sources of carbon and nitrogen for organisms today. Based on thermodynamic analyses of the redox state of the Hadean (4.56-4.0 Ga) mantle, the atmospheric compositions during the magma-ocean stage, and the effects of submarine hydrothermal fluids on the atmosphere of the ocean-covered Late-Hadean Earth, we suggest that life evolved sometime during 4.50-3.9 Ga under a reducing atmosphere, rich in hydrogen (H2), methane (CH4), and ammonia (NH3), but very poor in CO2, which was similar to today's atmosphere on Jupiter. The ocean water was alkaline (pH = 10 ± 1) and poor in Fe[2-] and S[2-]. CH4 and NH3 were the principal sources for carbon nitrogen and energy of the first organisms, greenhouse gases, and the UV shield on early Earth. The first organisms on Earth were possibly aerobic phototrophic methanotrophs, either oxygenic and/or anoxygenic. They evolved in micro-aerobic environments, which were created by the photodissociation of H2O on the surfaces of photocatalytic minerals (e.g., rutile (TiO2), pyrrhotite (FeS)) that accumulated in shallow water bodies on tropical islands. The enzymes for oxygenic Photosystem II (PSII) and PSI may also have evolved in the Late-Hadean microaerobic environments, facilitating the appearance of cyanobacteria. The symbiotic relationships between CO2-generating methanotrophs and the CH4-generating, H2-oxidizing methanogens and cyanobacteria characterized the first biosphere. Plate tectonics has played a key role in the transformation of the H2-CH4-NH3-rich to CO2-N2-rich atmosphere and biosphere by ~ 3.9 Ga because of the increased oxidation of the mantle, caused by the continuous subduction of the oxidized and hydrated oceanic crust into the mantle. Our study suggests that the search for life in the universe should be directed toward planets with a H2-CH4--NH3-rich atmosphere, as well as to those with a CO2-N2-rich atmosphere.},
}

@article {pmid41852102,
year = {2026},
author = {Qu, X and Liao, Y and Muthuri, CW and Winowiecki, LA and Zi, H and Zhang, Y and Li, X},
title = {Soil Functionality Undermined by Symbiotic Fungal Decline Following Forest Conversion.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {28},
number = {3},
pages = {e70268},
doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.70268},
pmid = {41852102},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {W2412011//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32430069//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; jxsq2023102214//Double Thousand Plan of Jiangxi Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Soil Microbiology ; *Forests ; *Symbiosis ; *Soil/chemistry ; *Fungi/genetics/classification/physiology ; China ; Phosphorus/metabolism ; Carbon/metabolism ; Nitrogen/metabolism ; Biodiversity ; Bacteria/genetics/classification ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {The conversion of native forests to other terrestrial ecosystems represents a profound form of land-use change, threatening aboveground biodiversity and biomass. However, its impact on soil ecological functions remains uncertain, particularly the regulatory role of soil microbial communities. To address this, we evaluated soil functionality related to carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycling by measuring nine enzyme activities in soils from native forests, plantations and croplands in subtropical China. Our results demonstrated a significant decline in soil functionality following the conversion of native forests, with the most pronounced reductions observed in croplands. This decline in soil functionality was strongly associated with a decrease in fungal richness but was independent of bacterial alpha-diversity. Specifically, the reduction in the abundance of symbiotic fungi, including key taxa such as Lactifluus and Tomentella, was identified as a primary driver of the functional impairment. Metagenomic analyses further confirmed that the loss of microbial functional genes was linked to the observed decline in soil functionality. Our findings underscore the critical role of key fungal taxa in maintaining soil processes and highlight the importance of their conservation and restoration to ensure ecosystem functionality in managed landscapes.},
}

*Soil Microbiology
*Forests
*Symbiosis
*Soil/chemistry
*Fungi/genetics/classification/physiology
China
Phosphorus/metabolism
Carbon/metabolism
Nitrogen/metabolism
Biodiversity
Bacteria/genetics/classification
Ecosystem

@article {pmid41852392,
year = {2025},
author = {Katula, AM and Johnson, NC and Chaudhary, VB and Afkhami, ME},
title = {Multilevel selection theory informs context-dependent mycorrhizal functioning.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {4},
number = {},
pages = {1676639},
pmid = {41852392},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi form widespread, ancient, and critically important symbioses with plants, but their functioning and beneficial effects are highly context-dependent. This variability stems from eco-evolutionary dynamics operating across multiple levels of biological organization (e.g., genes to holobionts), making generalizable predictions about mycorrhizal outcomes challenging. Multilevel selection theory (MLST), which posits that selection acts simultaneously on multiple levels of biological organization including in opposite directions, can serve as a powerful framework for interpreting this variability in mycorrhizal functional phenotypes. Here, we outline the key principles of MLST and explore how its application to AM fungal symbioses can improve our understanding of this ubiquitous symbiosis. We highlight how four levels of biological organization important to AM symbioses - genes, nuclei, spores, and holobionts - can serve as one or more units of selection under a tripartite framework for the units of selection. We then examine how ecological contexts, such as stress, spatial structure, and community composition, can modulate the balance of selective forces across levels, ultimately shaping the degree of cooperation among symbiotic partners. We conclude by proposing future research directions using MLST to generate deeper insights into the complexity and adaptability of this globally important symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid41852814,
year = {2022},
author = {Jagadeeshwari, U and Sasikala, C and Rai, A and Indu, B and Ipsita, S and Ramana, CV},
title = {Characterization of metagenome-assembled genomes of two endo-archaea of Candida tropicalis.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {1},
number = {},
pages = {1020341},
pmid = {41852814},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Host-microbe interactions are pivotal in host biology, ecology, and evolution. Recent developments in sequencing technologies have provided newer insights into the same through the hologenome concept.

METHODS: We report here the study on metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) associated with Candida tropicalis (studied through shotgun metagenome sequencing), adding to the knowledge about endomicrobiomes of yeast. De novo assembly and binning recovered two partial archaeal genomes, taxonomically belonging to the phylum Asgardarchaeota.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The phylogenomic analysis based on the core genes revealed that both the binned genomes cladded separately with the less studied and uncultivated 'Candidatus' superphylum, designated as Asgard archaea (the nearest known relative of eukaryotes). Between the two binned genomes, the average nucleotide index (ANI) was 71.2%. The average nucleotide identities (ANI) of the two binned genomes with 'Candidatus Heimdallarchaeota' were 60.4-61.2%. The metabolic pathways of both the binned genomes predicted genes belonging to sulfur reduction, Kreb's pathway, glycolysis, and C1 carbon metabolism. Further, both the binned genomes were predicted to support autotrophic as well as the heterotrophic mode of growth, which might probably help the host in its nutritional requirements also. Further, the genomes showed few eukaryotic signature proteins (ESPs) and SNARE proteins indicating that members of Asgardarchaeota are the closest relatives of eukaryotes. The gaps present in the metabolic potential of the MAGs obtained and the absence of a few essential pathways shows that they are probably in a symbiotic relationship with the host. The present study, reports for the first-time endosymbiosis of Asgard archaea with yeast. It also provides insights into the metabolic potential, ecology, evolutionary history, and endosymbiotic nature of the important but 160 poorly studied Asgard archaea.},
}

@article {pmid41852847,
year = {2026},
author = {Virág, E and Zombori, Z and Hegedűs, G and Ferenc, G and Dudits, D and Posta, K},
title = {Illumina RNA-seq data of Genotype-specific responses of maize plants to Funneliformis mosseae.},
journal = {Data in brief},
volume = {65},
number = {},
pages = {112611},
pmid = {41852847},
issn = {2352-3409},
abstract = {This article presents a publicly available RNA sequencing dataset generated to characterize transcriptomic responses of maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) colonization under contrasting water availability conditions. The dataset underpins a controlled greenhouse experiment involving two maize inbred lines with contrasting drought responses (K1, drought-tolerant; K2, drought-sensitive) and their hybrid (KH), grown under well-watered (60% soil moisture content) and drought-stressed (30% soil moisture content) conditions, with or without inoculation with Funneliformis mosseae (F. mosseae, BEG12). Plants were cultivated in an automated phenotyping system that enabled precise irrigation control and non-destructive monitoring of shoot and root development. AMF inoculation was applied at planting, and mycorrhizal colonization was confirmed microscopically before tissue sampling. Leaf samples were collected at identical developmental stages from three biological replicates per genotype × treatment combination and immediately frozen for RNA isolation. Total RNA was extracted using a column-based purification protocol, and RNA quality and integrity were assessed prior to sequencing library preparation. Gene expression libraries were constructed using the QuantSeq 3' mRNA-Seq Library Prep Kit (Lexogen), which enables strand-specific, 3'-end-focused transcript quantification. Libraries were sequenced on an Illumina NovaSeq X Plus platform using single-end 75 bp reads, generating approximately 22-24 million reads per library. The complete set of raw RNA-seq reads and associated metadata has been deposited in the NCBI Sequence Read Archive (SRA) under BioProject accession PRJNA1267826, providing unrestricted public access to the dataset. This dataset enables reuse for a broad range of transcriptomic applications, including differential gene expression analysis, gene set enrichment analysis, hormone- and stress-related pathway exploration, and comparative analyses across maize genotypes, water regimes, or symbiotic conditions. The data can also support integrative studies combining transcriptomic profiles with phenotypic or physiological measurements, as well as meta-analyses of plant-microbe interactions and drought-related transcriptional responses in cereal crops.},
}

@article {pmid41853367,
year = {2023},
author = {Smith, SN and Watters, JL and Siler, CD},
title = {Host ecology drives frog skin microbiome diversity across ecotone in South-Central North America.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {2},
number = {},
pages = {1286985},
pmid = {41853367},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {Anurans (frogs and toads) are an ecologically diverse group of vertebrate organisms that display a myriad of reproductive modes and life history traits. To persist in such an expansive array of habitats, these organisms have evolved specialized skin that is used for respiration while also protecting against moisture loss, pathogens, and environmental contaminants. Anuran skin is also colonized by communities of symbiotic microorganisms, and these skin microbiota serve critical roles in numerous processes associated with anuran host health and persistence such as pathogen resistance and immunity. However, gaps remain in our understanding of the environmental and evolutionary processes that shape frog skin microbial communities. Here, we combined existing anuran disease data with 16S rRNA skin microbial inventories to elucidate the roles that geographic location, host evolutionary history, host ecology, and pathogen presence play in the microbial community assemblage of five co-distributed frog host species in Oklahoma. These focal species possess distinct ecological preferences: aquatic, semi-aquatic, and arboreal, and our results indicate that host ecology is the primary driver of frog skin microbial community structure. Additionally, compositional differences were observed among select host species based on geographic location, but this was not consistent among all five frog species. We did not find evidence of phylogenetic signal among our samples and results from the Classification and Regression Tree Analysis revealed that the presence of the amphibian pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and the severity of infection were not drivers of skin microbiome differences among our focal host species. Results from this comparative study contribute to our growing understanding of the environmental and host-associated drivers of skin microbial community assemblage and represents one of the first studies on landscape-level variation in skin microbial communities among North American frogs.},
}

@article {pmid41853379,
year = {2023},
author = {Mulinge, MM and Mwanza, SS and Kabahweza, HM and Wamalwa, DC and Nduati, RW},
title = {The impact of neonatal intensive care unit antibiotics on gut bacterial microbiota of preterm infants: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {2},
number = {},
pages = {1180565},
pmid = {41853379},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {Preterm infants encounter an unnatural beginning to life, with housing in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) where they are exposed to antibiotics. Although the effectiveness of antibiotics in infection control is well established, the short- and long-term unintended effects on the microbiota of preterm infants receiving antibiotic treatment are yet to be quantified. Our aim was to investigate the unintended consequences of NICU antibiotics on preterm infants' gut microbiota. We searched three electronic databases-Embase, PubMed, and Scopus-for records from 2010 to October 2022. Eligibility criteria included intervention and observational studies that collected stool samples and analyzed microbiota data on the effect of antibiotics on the gut microbiota of preterm infants using 16S rRNA sequencing. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and the quality of the studies was judged using the Cochrane Collaboration Tool for assessing risk of bias (RoB2) for clinical trials, while non-randomized studies were assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The initial searches yielded 7,605 papers, of which 21 were included in the review. The selected studies examined 3,669 stool samples that were collected longitudinally from 878 preterm infants in seven different countries. Preterm infants exposed to antibiotics had a reduced bacterial diversity, an increased relative abundance of pathogenic bacteria such as Enterobacteriaceae, and a decrease or absence of symbiotic bacteria such as Bifidobacterium spp., which have been shown to assist in immunity development. Antibiotic discontinuation restored diversity, with variances linked to the antibiotic spectrum and treatment duration in some but not all cases. Breastfeeding confounded the association between antibiotic use and dysbiosis. Intriguingly, the reduction of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a crucial neurotransmitter for early brain development, was linked to the depletion of Veillonella spp. Despite the apparent benefits of using antibiotics on preterm infants, we conclude that they should be used only when absolutely necessary and for a short period of time. Mothers' milk is recommended to hasten the restoration of disrupted microbiota.},
}

@article {pmid41853516,
year = {2024},
author = {Ilangumaran, G and Subramanian, S and Smith, DL},
title = {Complete genome sequences of Rhizobium sp. strain SL42 and Hydrogenophaga sp. strain SL48, microsymbionts of Amphicarpaea bracteata.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {3},
number = {},
pages = {1309947},
pmid = {41853516},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {This study comprehensively analyzed two distinct rhizobacterial strains, Rhizobium sp. SL42 and Hydrogenophaga sp. SL48, through whole genome de novo sequencing. Isolated from root nodules of Amphicarpaea bracteata, a native legume related to soybean, they were selected to explore beneficial rhizobacteria from native plant relatives. Utilizing Illumina and Nanopore sequencers and MaSuRCA assembly, their complete genetic information was elucidated. Rhizobium sp. SL42 has a 4.06 Mbp circular chromosome and two plasmids with 60% GC content, while Hydrogenophaga sp. SL48 exhibits a 5.43 Mbp circular chromosome with 65% GC content. Genetic analysis identified them as new species, supported by ANI values (77.72% for SL42 and 83.39% for SL48) below the threshold. The genomic analysis unraveled a plethora of genes encoding diverse metabolic functions, secretion systems for substance transport, quorum sensing for coordination, and biosynthetic gene clusters suggesting the production of bioactive compounds. These functional properties contribute to plant growth stimulation, reflecting the symbiotic relationship of rhizobacteria with plants, potentially involving nitrogen fixation and growth-promoting compounds. This research contributes valuable knowledge about plant-microbe interactions and plant growth promotion by these two strains of rhizobacteria.},
}

@article {pmid41853532,
year = {2024},
author = {Wei, Y and Zhou, C},
title = {Bacteriophages: a double-edged sword in the gastrointestinal tract.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {3},
number = {},
pages = {1450523},
pmid = {41853532},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {The symbiotic relationship between the gut microbiome and the human body is a concept that has grown in popularity in recent years. Bacteriophages (phages) are components of the gut microbiota and their imbalance plays a role in the pathogenesis of numerous intestinal disorders. Meanwhile, as a new antimicrobial agent, phage therapy (PT) offers unique advantages when compared with antibiotics and brings a new dawn for treatment of multidrug-resistant bacteria in intestinal and extraintestinal disorders. In this review, we provide a brief introduction to the characterization of phages, particularly focusing on newly discovered phages. Additionally, we outline the involvement of gut phages in disease pathogenesis and discuss the status and challenges of utilizing phages as therapeutic targets for treatment of enteric infection.},
}

@article {pmid41853536,
year = {2024},
author = {Markovchick, LM and Belgara-Andrew, A and Richard, D and Deringer, T and Grady, KC and Hultine, KR and Allan, GJ and Whitham, TG and Querejeta, JI and Gehring, CA},
title = {Utilizing symbiotic relationships and assisted migration in restoration to cope with multiple stressors, and the legacy of invasive species.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiomes},
volume = {3},
number = {},
pages = {1331341},
pmid = {41853536},
issn = {2813-4338},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Climate change has increased the need for forest restoration, but low planting success and limited availability of planting materials hamper these efforts. Invasive plants and their soil legacies can further reduce restoration success. Thus, strategies that optimize restoration are crucial. Assisted migration and inoculation with native microbial symbiont communities have great potential to increase restoration success. However, assisted migrants can still show reduced survival compared to local provenances depending on transfer distance. Inoculation with mycorrhizal fungi, effective if well-matched to plants and site conditions, can have neutral to negative results with poor pairings. Few studies have examined the interaction between these two strategies in realistic field environments where native plants experience the combined effects of soil legacies left by invasive plants and the drought conditions that result from a warming, drying climate.

METHODS: We planted two ecotypes (local climate and warmer climate) of Populus fremontii (Fremont cottonwoods), in soils with and without legacies of invasion by Tamarix spp. (tamarisk), and with and without addition of native mycorrhizal fungi and other soil biota from the warmer climate.

RESULTS: Four main results emerged. 1) First year survival in soil legacies left behind after tamarisk invasion and removal was less than one tenth of survival in soil without a tamarisk legacy. 2) Actively restoring soil communities after tamarisk removal tripled first year cottonwood survival for both ecotypes, but only improved survival of the warmer, assisted migrant ecotype trees in year two. 3) Actively restoring soil communities in areas without a tamarisk history reduced first year survival for both ecotypes, but improved survival of the warmer, assisted migrant ecotype trees in year two. 4) By the second year, inoculated assisted migrants survived at five times the rate of inoculated trees from the local ecotype.

DISCUSSION: Results emphasize the detrimental effects of soil legacies left after tamarisk invasion and removal, the efficacy of assisted migration and restoring soil communities alongside plants, and the need to thoughtfully optimize pairings between plants, fungi, and site conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41853715,
year = {2026},
author = {Ham, JH and Swingle, B and Pettis, GS},
title = {Editorial: Microbial interactions across species: shaping pathogenesis, symbiosis, and ecosystem dynamics.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1810035},
doi = {10.3389/fmicb.2026.1810035},
pmid = {41853715},
issn = {1664-302X},
}

@article {pmid41854163,
year = {2026},
author = {Poluzerov, SA and Dmitrovskaya, SV and Shipunova, AE},
title = {Identification of Three Species in Acanthocystis turfacea Carter 1863 Species Complex, and Notes on Its Symbiosis With Algae.},
journal = {The Journal of eukaryotic microbiology},
volume = {73},
number = {2},
pages = {e70075},
doi = {10.1111/jeu.70075},
pmid = {41854163},
issn = {1550-7408},
support = {24-74-10031//Russian Science Foundation/ ; //Saint Petersburg State University/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis ; Phylogeny ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics/chemistry ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics/chemistry ; *Chlorophyta/physiology ; },
abstract = {Relatively large Acanthocystis turfacea Carter 1863 are the type species of the centrohelid genus Acanthocystis Carter 1863, characterized by bifurcated spine scales. In this study, several isolates and strains identified as A. turfacea are re-evaluated based on morphological, morphometric, and molecular evidence. The Len strain corresponds to A. turfacea sensu stricto, while the Luga and Kos isolates, previously considered A. turfacea paucilituatus Nicholls 2023, are elevated to species level as Acanthocystis paucilituatus n. stat. A distinct Sin strain, with a smaller cell diameter and lacking symbiotic algae, is described here as a new species, Acanthocystis ladogensis n. sp. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on 18S rRNA gene sequences confirms that these taxa form a well-supported clade within the genus Acanthocystis, and supports the hypothesis that bifurcations at the distal ends of spine scales represent an ancestral feature. Observations under long-term culture demonstrate that A. turfacea maintains a stable symbiotic association with symbiotic algae. The taxonomic status of the A. turfacea species complex and correlations between molecular and structural data are discussed.},
}

*Symbiosis
Phylogeny
RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
Molecular Sequence Data
Sequence Analysis, DNA
DNA, Protozoan/genetics/chemistry
DNA, Ribosomal/genetics/chemistry
*Chlorophyta/physiology

@article {pmid41855522,
year = {2026},
author = {West, SA and Dewar, AE and Iritani, R and Belcher, LJ and Griffin, AS},
title = {The Evolutionary and Ecological Consequences of Cooperation.},
journal = {The American naturalist},
volume = {207},
number = {4},
pages = {467-482},
doi = {10.1086/739292},
pmid = {41855522},
issn = {1537-5323},
mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; Animals ; *Cooperative Behavior ; *Ecosystem ; Insecta ; Birds ; },
abstract = {AbstractThe last 30 years have seen major advances in our understanding of the evolution of cooperation-traits that have evolved because of the benefit they provide other individuals. In contrast, we have been much less successful in determining the consequences of cooperation for long-term ecological and evolutionary change. Studies of birds, insects, and bacteria suggest that cooperation has major consequences for fundamental features of life, such as ecological niche range, genetic variation within species, and rates of species diversification. However, the role of cooperation in driving these changes is largely limited to hypotheses, as we lack both data and a general theoretical framework. We synthesize the progress that has been made and highlight the major gaps in our understanding for future study.},
}

*Biological Evolution
Animals
*Cooperative Behavior
*Ecosystem
Insecta
Birds

@article {pmid41844645,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Q and Jing, L and Duan, F and Sun, Y and Wang, W and Xu, B and Hua, D and Zhang, J and Shen, Z and Zhou, W and Luan, J and Liaw, PK and Han, X and Lu, J and Zhao, Y and Yang, T},
title = {Increasing fatigue resistance in ordered intermetallic alloys with multi-element symbiosis.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41467-026-70838-w},
pmid = {41844645},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {52222112//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 52101151//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 52101162//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 52301139//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 52101135//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; },
abstract = {Intermetallic alloys, recognized for the long-range atomic ordering and resultant impressive mechanical properties, are highly sought after in various advanced fields, including aerospace, automotive, and nuclear energy. However, their widespread application is still hindered seriously due to the poor fatigue endurance. Here, we design a new-type L12-structured multi-element symbiotic intermetallic alloy (MSIMA) and achieve a fatigue limit of ~1,100 MPa that remarkably surpasses its yield strength by 1.1 times, which is superior to other structural alloys currently in use. The complex sublattice occupation strengthens the alloy by increasing the antiphase boundary energy of the superlattice, thereby suppressing the fatigue-induced lattice defects. Concurrently, the multi-element symbiosis enables the modulation of local chemistries and the architecting of the disordered interfacial nanolayer (DINL) near grain boundaries, thereby shifting the fatigue fracture mode from intergranular to transgranular cracking. Furthermore, serving as the ductilizing sources, these DINLs facilitate the unusual anti-fatigue mechanisms-mechanical faulting and twinning-that are rarely observed in ordered alloys at room temperature. This deformation behavior effectively alleviates the strain localization and blunts the crack propagation, thereby enhancing their fatigue resistance.},
}

@article {pmid41845984,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, C and Liu, Y},
title = {Cancer-associated fibroblasts: Orchestrators of the peritoneal metastatic microenvironment.},
journal = {Critical reviews in oncology/hematology},
volume = {222},
number = {},
pages = {105284},
doi = {10.1016/j.critrevonc.2026.105284},
pmid = {41845984},
issn = {1879-0461},
abstract = {Peritoneal metastasis (PM) represents a terminal stage of numerous abdominal malignancies, including gastric, colorectal, and ovarian cancers, and is associated with a dismal prognosis and limited therapeutic options. The peritoneal tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and dynamic ecosystem that actively governs cancer cell dissemination, implantation, and proliferation. Among the diverse cellular components of the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have emerged as principal regulators of this pro-tumorigenic niche. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence regarding the multifaceted roles of CAFs in driving PM. The diverse origins of peritoneal CAFs were examined, with a particular focus on the pivotal process of mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (MMT), and the profound functional heterogeneity within the CAF population was explored. Moreover, the mechanisms through which CAFs promote metastasis were delineated, including the extensive remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) that generates invasive pathways and modulates mechanotransduction. Furthermore, the complex CAF secretome, comprising cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and extracellular vesicles that directly stimulate cancer cell motility, invasion, and survival, was investigated. Besides, the critical role of CAFs in modulating metabolic symbiosis, particularly through the provision of lipids that enhance cancer cell membrane fluidity and invasiveness, was also addressed. Finally, the mechanisms by which CAFs establish a profoundly immunosuppressive microenvironment by recruiting and polarizing myeloid cells, inhibiting T-cell function, and creating a physical barrier to immune surveillance were elucidated. In conclusion, CAFs are important regulators of the peritoneal metastatic cascade, coordinating a spectrum of pro-tumorigenic events that collectively facilitate tumor progression and therapeutic resistance.},
}

@article {pmid41850296,
year = {2026},
author = {Bez, C and El Abiead, Y and Caraballo-Rodríguez, AM},
title = {From Molecules to Metabolomes, Understanding Symbiosis through Small Molecules.},
journal = {Journal of natural products},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jnatprod.5c01360},
pmid = {41850296},
issn = {1520-6025},
abstract = {Symbiosis, from Greek "living together" refers to the close association among organisms. Although these associations are found everywhere in nature, we do not know how these relationships are established or maintained over time. In this Perspective, we will focus on interorganism interactions involving microbes and eukaryotic hosts, particularly animals, plants, and humans, where symbiosis plays a critical role in health, development, and ecological fitness. We will focus on the chemical crosstalk between host and symbiont mediated by specialized small molecules. Finally, we suggest some steps for applying mass spectrometry-based metabolomic approaches to accelerate the understanding of these complex interactions.},
}

@article {pmid41850975,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, J and Valdés-López, O and Schornack, S},
title = {Beyond nitrogen: phosphate controls root nodule symbiosis commitment.},
journal = {Trends in plant science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tplants.2026.01.001},
pmid = {41850975},
issn = {1878-4372},
abstract = {While root nodule symbiosis (RNS) is primarily recognized for nitrogen acquisition, it is heavily influenced by phosphorus levels. In natural agroecosystems, nitrogen limitation frequently co-occurs with phosphorus deficiency, yet the role of phosphorus in modulating RNS remains understudied. Recent research in the legume Phaseolus vulgaris shows that phosphorus starvation suppresses nodulation by downregulating the master regulator gene Nodule Inception, mediated by phosphate-responsive factors such as Phosphate Starvation Response-Like 7. We propose an integrated model where phosphate signaling functions as a metabolic checkpoint, balancing carbon availability, nitrogen demand, and phosphorus status. Elucidating how phosphate scarcity rewires these symbiotic gene networks is essential for sustainable agriculture, allowing for the optimization of symbiotic nitrogen fixation in nutrient-depleted environments.},
}

@article {pmid41840421,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, S and Tan, S and Li, Q and He, D and Xu, L and Zhang, H and Wang, R and Guan, Y and Cheng, Z and Wu, J and Xu, W and Zhang, H and Tang, M and Fan, J and Liu, L and Xie, J},
title = {PagMYB74 orchestrates flavonoid-mediated plant-microbe feedback for drought resilience in poplar.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71086},
pmid = {41840421},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {2025D01E61//Xinjiang Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars/ ; },
abstract = {The interactions between plants and the soil microbiome play critical roles in regulating plant resistance to stresses. However, the process partly results from the complex interaction between root exudates and microbes, a relationship that remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated the interconnected responses of the root microbiome associated with the perennial tree Populus under drought stress. This was achieved via molecular genetics approaches and multi-omics analyses, combined with integrative comparisons of microbiome structure against both the host plant's metabolomic profiles and transcriptomic data, using samples collected over a 13-wk period of progressive drought treatment. We demonstrate that progressive drought triggers a phased transcriptional cascade in roots, culminating in the activation of a flavonoid biosynthesis program. Moreover, we confirm that Pseudomonas is strongly associated with flavonoid biosynthesis and identify that gene PagMYB74 is critical for quercetin and kaempferol secretion. We further found that Pseudomonas putida S110 colonization establishes positive feedback through enhanced phenylpropanoid metabolism and activation of nutrient transport pathways in PagMYB74-overexpressing plants, reinforcing the symbiotic interaction. Our findings establish a complete mechanistic continuum from a single host gene to metabolite-driven recruitment and symbiotic reprogramming, facilitating the improvement of environmental adaptation by regulating their interaction with beneficial soil microorganisms.},
}

@article {pmid41841409,
year = {2026},
author = {Chu, J and Xu, X and Xu, Y and Hu, K and Chan, HF and Chen, W and Cheung, KH and Ning, X and Yung, KKL},
title = {Bioengineered Probiotic-Prebiotic Hierarchical Microspheres With pH-Responsive Architecture Reprogram Immunometabolism in Obesity-Related Disorders.},
journal = {Small (Weinheim an der Bergstrasse, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e14910},
doi = {10.1002/smll.202514910},
pmid = {41841409},
issn = {1613-6829},
support = {82361168640//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; XJ2024043//Hong Kong Scholars Program/ ; 2021YFF1000700//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; N_EdUHK205/23//Joint Research Scheme/ ; JSTJ-2025-292//Jiangsu Youth Science and Technology Talent Support Program/ ; 20220ZB23//Jiangsu Funding Program for Excellent Postdoctoral Talent/ ; 82361168640//Joint Research Fund for Overseas Chinese Scholars and Scholars in Hong Kong and Macao/ ; },
abstract = {Obesity is increasingly recognized as a chronic immunometabolic disorder driven by dysregulated gut-adipose communication and microbiota imbalance. Here, we present bioengineered pH-responsive probiotic-prebiotic hierarchical microspheres (MicroSym) that coordinate localized microbial restoration with systemic immune reprogramming to treat obesity-related disorders. MicroSym is fabricated via microfluidic-assisted phase separation coupled with electrostatic spraying, embedding probiotic bacteria within a lotus-derived prebiotic matrix to form a protective yet responsive microenvironment that preserves viability during gastric transit. At intestinal pH, the hierarchical architecture selectively disassembles to release probiotics and prebiotic substrates, fostering beneficial colonization and metabolite production. This symbiotic modulation reshapes the gut immune landscape, suppresses proinflammatory macrophage polarization, and restores adipose tissue homeostasis. In diet-induced obese mice, oral treatment with MicroSym remodels the gut microbiota, improves glucose tolerance, reduces lipid accumulation, and normalizes cytokine profiles without overt toxicity. Transcriptomic profiling and microbiome analyses further validate comprehensive systemic immunometabolic benefits. Collectively, this work establishes a biofabricated symbiotic microsphere platform for controlling microbiota-immune-metabolic crosstalk and offers a translatable therapeutic strategy for obesity-associated immunometabolic disease.},
}

@article {pmid41841794,
year = {2026},
author = {Prasad, A and Santos-Matos, G and Szigeti-Genoud, A and Mazel, F and Engel, P},
title = {Priority effects drive strain-level community composition of honeybee gut microbiota.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wrag056},
pmid = {41841794},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {Gut microbial communities often differ at the strain level among individual hosts, but the mechanisms driving this variation remain poorly understood. One potential factor is priority effects, a process in which differences in the timing and order of microbial colonization influence subsequent community assembly ("first come, first served" dynamics). We hypothesize that such priority effects operate at the strain level within species, where closely related bacteria exhibit niche overlap, and that these dynamics can lead to community divergence even under similar environmental conditions. We tested these predictions, using the gut microbiota of honeybees, which harbor conserved microbial communities that differ in strain composition among individual bees. We sequentially colonized microbiota-depleted honeybees with two distinct microbial communities composed of the same twelve core microbiota species but different strains, ensuring that individuals shared species-level composition but differed at the strain level. We found that firstcomer strains consistently dominated the resulting communities, suggesting strong priority effects. Dropout experiments in which the firstcomer strain of a species was removed led to only partial increases in the colonization success of the conspecific latecomer, suggesting that both intra- and inter-species interactions contribute to priority effects. Our findings highlight the significant role of priority effects in strain-level community assembly and reveal their influence in shaping the specialized gut microbiota of honeybees, with important implications for the development of probiotic strategies in beekeeping.},
}

@article {pmid41842961,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, F and Pang, L and Liu, Y and Khan, F and Chen, P},
title = {Symbiotic exclusivity between CLOCK and TFPI2 drives stemness and immunosuppression in glioblastoma models.},
journal = {The Journal of clinical investigation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1172/JCI199056},
pmid = {41842961},
issn = {1558-8238},
abstract = {Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain tumor characterized by extensive crosstalk between glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) and immunosuppressive microglia, with our previous work identifying CLOCK and TFPI2 as key regulators of this interaction. Here, we uncover a 'symbiotic exclusivity' pattern between CLOCK and TFPI2, showing that despite mutually exclusive amplifications, they sustain symbiotic regulatory interactions in GBM. The CLOCK-BMAL1 complex transcriptionally upregulates TFPI2, while TFPI2-driven hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF1a) signaling activates nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) P65 to upregulate the CLOCK-BMAL1 complex, creating a positive feedback loop to promote stemness, immunosuppression, and tumor progression. Disrupting the CLOCK-TFPI2 interplay through dual inhibition of their downstream effectors reduces GSC stemness and immunosuppressive microglia, activates antitumor immunity, and synergizes with anti-PD1 therapy to achieve complete tumor regression in 50-62.5% of tumor-bearing mice. This study uncovers a promising therapeutic strategy for a broader subset of GBM patients with high expression of either CLOCK or TFPI2, and provides a framework for identifying 'symbiotic exclusivity' genes in cancer.},
}

@article {pmid41844078,
year = {2026},
author = {Lozano-Bilbao, E and Delgado-Suárez, I and Hardisson, A and González-Weller, D and Rubio, C and Paz, S and Gutiérrez, ÁJ},
title = {Microhabitat light regime drives a seasonal reversal of metal burdens in the photosymbiotic sea anemone Anemonia sulcata.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {228},
number = {},
pages = {119577},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.119577},
pmid = {41844078},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {Trace-metal accumulation in intertidal bioindicators can be strongly influenced by fine-scale ecological conditions, yet the role of microhabitat light regime in photosymbiotic species remains poorly understood. Here, we quantified Al, Fe, Zn, Cu, Cd and Pb in the sea anemone Anemonia sulcata from Tenerife and Gran Canaria using a fully crossed design that included island, microhabitat light regime (Light vs Dark), and season (Summer vs Winter). Metal profiles differed consistently between light regimes, but the strength and direction of this effect depended on season. In winter, individuals from Dark microhabitats showed higher concentrations for all analysed metals, whereas in summer the differences were weaker and restricted to a subset of elements. Multivariate and mixture-level analyses further showed that the Lighting × Season interaction explained the main structure of the dataset, while island contributed comparatively little to overall variation. These results indicate that microhabitat light regime is an important ecological modulator of metal burdens in A. sulcata, and that its effect changes seasonally. Accounting for both microhabitat and season may therefore improve the interpretation of biomonitoring data in intertidal photosymbiotic organisms.},
}

@article {pmid41844248,
year = {2026},
author = {Burghardt, LT and Sydow, P and Sutherland, J and Epstein, B and Tiffin, P},
title = {Genetic variation in host selectivity and adaptive strain enrichment in legume-rhizobia symbiosis: host-dependent, imperfect processes correlate with nodule morphology.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {293},
number = {2067},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2025.2851},
pmid = {41844248},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; //Division of Integrative Organismal Systems/ ; },
mesh = {*Symbiosis/genetics ; *Medicago truncatula/genetics/microbiology/physiology/anatomy & histology ; *Genetic Variation ; *Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/anatomy & histology/genetics ; *Sinorhizobium meliloti/physiology ; Host Specificity/genetics ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; Nitrogen Fixation ; },
abstract = {Mutualism breakdown can be prevented if partner species preferentially select and reward partners that provide greater benefit. We examined these two components using the legume Medicago truncatula and its nitrogen-fixing symbiont Sinorhizobium meliloti. First, we re-analysed data from 202 accessions to show significant genetic variation in the capacity of Medicago to restrict strain diversity, finding that hosts with shorter nodules were more selective. A genome-wide association study on host selectivity identified genes including the hormone leginsulin, pectin degradation, multidrug and toxic compound efflux, zinc transport and DNA methylation. Second, we used two well-studied Medicago genotypes with contrasting nodule morphologies to assess the effectiveness of adaptive enrichment mechanisms by sampling the relative frequencies of rhizobial strains in pools of small nodules (indicating a lack of host investment) compared to large nodules (indicating increased host investment) and pairing these results with previous single-strain assessments of strain benefits to hosts. While both hosts enriched beneficial strains in large nodules, the host that formed larger and more variably sized nodules and thus had greater 'potential' to increase rhizobial populations was less effective. Our findings reveal that host genetic variation affects strain selectivity and suggest that nodule morphology traits warrant attention when exploring mutualism evolution.},
}

*Symbiosis/genetics
*Medicago truncatula/genetics/microbiology/physiology/anatomy & histology
*Genetic Variation
*Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/anatomy & histology/genetics
*Sinorhizobium meliloti/physiology
Host Specificity/genetics
Genome-Wide Association Study
Nitrogen Fixation

@article {pmid41834867,
year = {2026},
author = {Souza, JM and Ribeiro, PHC and Millen, DD},
title = {Review: Shifts of rumen microbiota by feeding non-fibrous carbohydrates to improve cattle performance.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1735296},
pmid = {41834867},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Ruminants play an essential role in food production due to their ability to utilize forages through fermentation in the rumen. This fermentative chamber hosts a diverse microbial community capable of degrading fiber and non-fiber carbohydrates, producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and microbial protein, which are essential for the animal's metabolism. Throughout their evolution, ruminants developed a symbiotic relationship with microorganisms specialized in the degradation of plant fibers, enabling the use of forages as a dietary foundation. However, modern intensive production systems have introduced concentrate ingredients to their diets (such as grains and industrial by-products), which represent a significant departure from ancestral diets based exclusively on forages. Dietary composition is the primary factor driving changes in the ruminal microbiota and can significantly alter its composition. Variations in the forage-to-concentrate ratio can drastically alter microbial activity, affecting the stability of the ruminal ecosystem. Sequencing technologies and omics approaches have enhanced the understanding of this ecology, allowing for more effective nutritional interventions. The objective of this review is to assess how contemporary diets in intensive production systems differ from ancestral, forage-only diets and how these differences reshape the ruminal microbiota. To this end, we characterized the variations in the ruminal microbiota composition of animals fed high-concentrate and high-forage diets, describing the specific microbial profiles of each condition and identifying beneficial and potentially detrimental microorganisms. This review synthesizes current evidence on how dietary transitions reshape ruminal microbial cross-feeding networks and proposes an integrative framework linking microbial symbiotic balance, rumen health, and production efficiency. By emphasizing the dynamic regulation of microbial interactions rather than isolated taxa, this work highlights cross-feeding stability as a central target for nutritional, microbial, and genetic interventions in intensive ruminant production systems.},
}

@article {pmid41835130,
year = {2026},
author = {Shoham, S and Weiss, C and Keren, R and Lavy, A and Polishchuk, I and Pokroy, B and Azem, A and Ilan, M},
title = {Intracellular vesicle-mediated biomineralization of arsenic and barium by a sponge symbiotic bacterium.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag039},
pmid = {41835130},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {In their soluble forms, arsenic and barium are ubiquitous toxic elements. Mechanisms for their detoxification include reducing bioavailability by assimilation into organic forms or mineralization. It was previously found that Entotheonella sp., a bacterium common to the Red Sea sponge Theonella swinhoei (Demospongiae, Tetractinellida), accumulates these elements by mineralizing them intracellularly, thus acting as a detoxifying organ to the sponge host. Here, we utilize cryo-TEM and energy-dispersive spectroscopy to investigate the accumulated minerals. Our results show that Entotheonella cells possess an internal membrane-enclosing sphere-like granules that contains barium, arsenic, sulfur, calcium, and phosphorus in high concentrations. Moreover, the bacterial cytoplasm contains many intracellular vesicles (ICVs) enriched with arsenic and sulfur. The coexistence of sulfur and arsenic may suggest the presence of cysteine-containing metal-binding proteins responsible for arsenic uptake and separation within the bacterial cell. To examine that hypothesis, we developed a protocol for vesicle isolation and performed proteomic profiling. Based on the proteins found, ICVs likely originate from the bacteria's outer membrane and contain proteins of known functions, including the transport and detoxification of toxic metals. These findings enhance our understanding of Entotheonella sp. and its host Tamiops swinhoei's unique strategies for hyper-accumulating and neutralizing toxic elements.},
}

@article {pmid41835236,
year = {2026},
author = {Ariyan, M and Mikryukov, V and Khalil, H and Gohar, D and Hosseyni Moghaddam, MS and Drenkhan, R and Tedersoo, L},
title = {Impact of plant species, mycorrhizal type, and leaf traits on foliar fungal communities (in a common garden experiment).},
journal = {IMA fungus},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {e173358},
pmid = {41835236},
issn = {2210-6340},
abstract = {Foliar fungal communities are essential components of the plant microbiome, playing a vital role in maintaining plant health and influencing ecosystem dynamics. Despite increasing interest in plant-microbe associations, the drivers shaping foliar fungal community composition remain poorly understood, including the roles of host phylogeny, functional traits, and belowground mycorrhizal symbiosis. We used the MycoPhylo experimental field, in which plant species are planted in a replicated, phylogenetically diverse design, to investigate the influence of host plant identity, mycorrhizal type, and leaf functional traits on foliar fungal assemblages. We examined foliar fungal communities across 158 plots representing 110 distinct plant species using a metabarcoding approach. The resulting operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were dominated by Dothideomycetes (44.5%), Tremellomycetes (12.7%), and Taphrinomycetes (9.0%). Functional guild analysis revealed that plant pathogens and saprotrophs were the most abundant ecological groups. Foliar fungal alpha diversity and community composition were significantly influenced by plant growth form and mycorrhizal association. Although plant deciduousness did not affect fungal richness, it significantly affected fungal community composition. The measured leaf traits (hairiness and thickness) showed the least influence on fungal richness. Mantel tests revealed weak, guild-dependent relationships between host phylogenetic distance and foliar fungal community dissimilarity. Moreover, plant phylogenetic eigenvectors accounted for up to 25.8% of the variation in fungal richness. These findings indicate that host phylogeny and plant traits contribute to-but do not solely determine-the structure of foliar fungal assemblages under field conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41835277,
year = {2026},
author = {Semenova, MG and Coba de la Peña, T and Petina, AN and Ivashina, T and Fedorova, EE},
title = {Nitrogen-fixing root nodules elicited by rhizobial potassium ion transporter Smkup1: senescence and autophagy.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1749975},
pmid = {41835277},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {With the aim to elucidate the interdependence between potassium transport by the host plant in nodule cells and potassium transport in bacteroids, a null mutant of rhizobial potassium ion transporter Smkup1 was created and investigated. The mutation, according to cytological analysis, has not caused specific aberrations in the root nodules' anatomy and ultrastructure, but a significant induction of the expression of host plant and rhizobial genes involved in the stress response was observed. At the same time, an opposite trend was observed for genes of the autophagy pathway that have shown a significant downregulation of expression. To identify the mechanisms of interplay between autophagy and senescence in the root nodule, an in silico analysis of protein-protein interactions of positive (Beclin 1) and negative (NAC1, BAK1) regulators of autophagy was performed. The resulting networks allowed the predictions of interacting proteins putatively linking symbiotic interactions, autophagy, stress, programmed cell death (PCD), and senescence. Based on these data, we hypothesized that modulation of the expression of these genes in the root nodule could be the way to extend the root nodule's lifespan and the duration of the nitrogen fixation process.},
}

@article {pmid41836174,
year = {2026},
author = {Lewis, N and Schätzle, S and Cardone, F and Erpenbeck, D and Wörheide, G and Vargas, S},
title = {Species-specific community structure in the microbiomes and eukaryotic communities associated with Mediterranean golf ball sponges.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {e20452},
doi = {10.7717/peerj.20452},
pmid = {41836174},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {*Porifera/microbiology ; Animals ; *Microbiota/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Species Specificity ; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Eukaryota/genetics/classification ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sponges harbor complex and diverse microbiomes that contribute to the host's fitness and, ultimately, the health of the ecosystems sponges inhabit.

METHODS: Using high-throughput 16S and 18S rRNA amplicon sequencing, we explore the prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities associated with three sympatric Mediterranean demosponges, namely Tethya aurantium, Tethya meloni, and Tethya citrina.

RESULTS: We found species-specific prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities despite the close sympatry of the three Mediterranean Tethya species studied. This offers further support for the phylogenetic nature of the sponge microbiome, where microbial communities reflect the evolutionary ancestry of their host species. These patterns are both present in the eukaryotic and prokaryotic sponge-associated communities, since both display similar levels of host species specificity.},
}

*Porifera/microbiology
Animals
*Microbiota/genetics
Phylogeny
Species Specificity
RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Eukaryota/genetics/classification

@article {pmid41839662,
year = {2026},
author = {Abdallah, MM and Suo, C and Cui, Y and Ullah, RH and Nhung, HH and Li, L and Liu, C},
title = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi as integrative modulators of plant tolerance to drought, salinity, and heavy metal stress: mechanistic insights and future directions.},
journal = {Journal, genetic engineering & biotechnology},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {100636},
doi = {10.1016/j.jgeb.2025.100636},
pmid = {41839662},
issn = {2090-5920},
abstract = {Climate change and anthropogenic pressures have intensified abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and heavy metal (HM) contamination, severely impairing plant growth and productivity. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), through their symbiotic association with plant roots, offer a promising biological strategy to enhance plant resilience under these stresses. This review synthesizes recent advances in understanding the physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms by which AMF confer stress tolerance. Key mechanisms include modulation of aquaporin expression for water homeostasis, regulation of abscisic acid (ABA) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways, enhancement of antioxidant defenses, and fine-tuning of osmolyte metabolism such as proline. Under salinity, AMF improves ion homeostasis by regulating SOS1 and NHX transporters and enhancing K[+]/Na[+] discrimination. In HM-contaminated environments, AMF facilitate metal immobilization, chelation via phytochelatins and metallothioneins, and vacuolar sequestration, thereby reducing oxidative damage. The review also highlights AMF-mediated transcriptional reprogramming involving 14-3-3 proteins and stress-responsive transcription factors (e.g., WRKY, MYB, bHLH). By integrating rhizospheric interactions with intracellular signaling, AMF emerge as multifaceted modulators of plant stress physiology. This review delineates key gaps in current understanding and outlines strategic directions for harnessing AMF in sustainable agriculture under complex abiotic stress scenarios. By integrating mechanistic insights across drought, salinity, and heavy metal stress, it emphasizes the convergence of AMF-mediated signaling pathways and cross-tolerance mechanisms that underpin plant resilience.},
}

@article {pmid41839755,
year = {2026},
author = {Tourné, F and Medina, K and Listur, B and Báez, J and Martín, V},
title = {Commercial kombucha beverages produced in Uruguay: physicochemical composition and antioxidant profile.},
journal = {Journal of the science of food and agriculture},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jsfa.70589},
pmid = {41839755},
issn = {1097-0010},
support = {//Programa de Desarrollo de las Ciencias Básicas/ ; //Agencia Nacional de Investigación e Innovación/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Kombucha is an ancient beverage obtained by fermenting a sweetened tea infusion with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). Although its popularity has increased markedly in the past decade, there is still limited information on kombucha produced in Latin America, particularly regarding its physicochemical characteristics and antioxidant properties.

RESULTS: In this study, the chemical composition and antioxidant capacity of eight commercial kombuchas from the Uruguayan market were evaluated. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed two distinct clusters among the samples, mainly differentiated by ethanol, glycerol, total polyphenols, antioxidant capacity, volatile acidity, and titratable acidity. This multivariate pattern reflected differences in fermentation progress, where samples with lower residual sugar and higher levels of fermentation metabolites also showed greater antioxidant potential. A high degree of variability was detected among Uruguayan kombucha brands, especially regarding acidity and ethanol levels, with several products surpassing the threshold established for non-alcoholic beverages. In this set of samples, locally produced kombuchas tended to show higher phenolic content and antioxidant capacity than the imported products, highlighting their promising potential as functional beverages. However, further studies with a larger sample size are needed to confirm these trends.

CONCLUSION: This work represents the first report on the characterization of Uruguayan kombucha beverages and highlights the importance of establishing quality and regulatory standards to enhance product uniformity, safety, and consumer trust within the growing Latin American kombucha market. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41830828,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, Y and Qi, Z and Yin, L and Chang, F and Ju, H and Jing, H and Diao, X},
title = {Multi-level holobiont dysregulation increases the ecological risk of combined ocean acidification and benzo[a]pyrene pollution to the reef-building coral Porites lutea.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {507},
number = {},
pages = {141743},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141743},
pmid = {41830828},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Reef-building corals are increasingly threatened by the combined effects of global climate change and localized organic pollutants. However, the holistic impacts of co-exposure to ocean acidification (OA) and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) on coral holobionts remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the multi-level responses of the reef-building coral Porites lutea to short-term (7-day) exposure to OA (pH 7.80), BaP (10 µg/L), and their combination, by integrating physiological measurements with microbiome profiling (ITS2 and 16S rRNA). We found that combined stress was associated with a dysregulated response in Symbiodiniaceae, characterized by a significant increase in cell density without a parallel rise in chlorophyll content, suggesting a possible compensatory but inefficient proliferation response. Despite this, the dominant symbiont Cladocopium C15 remained stable. The bacterial diversity increased (e.g., enrichment of Ruegeria and Acanthopleuribacter, decline of Endozoicomonas), which may suggest enhanced functional redundancy, while the archaeal community was significantly restructured, most notably a marked decline of the putative obligate Nanoarchaeota-Halobacterota symbiosis. At the host level, combined stress was associated with suppressed antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD/POD) but upregulated genes related to protein folding (Hsp90) and calcium homeostasis (NCX1, VAMP4). These findings suggest a complex holobiont reconfiguration under combined stress, involving a stabilized core symbiont, altered microbiomes, and a shifted host defense strategy. Our study suggests that the ecological risk of combined OA and organic pollution may not be extrapolated from single-stressor responses, indicating the need to incorporate multi-stressor frameworks into coral reef risk assessments.},
}

@article {pmid41831253,
year = {2026},
author = {Maartens, LH and Gummow, B and Grewar, JD and Picard, J and Thompson, PN},
title = {A cohort study of factors associated with the incidence rate of keratoconjunctivitis in dairy heifers farmed under Mediterranean climatic conditions.},
journal = {Preventive veterinary medicine},
volume = {251},
number = {},
pages = {106849},
doi = {10.1016/j.prevetmed.2026.106849},
pmid = {41831253},
issn = {1873-1716},
abstract = {Bovine keratoconjunctivitis (BK) is a common ocular disease in cattle, often linked to symbiotic bacteria with pathogenic potential, such as Moraxella bovis. Although treatable, BK impacts productivity, animal welfare, and antimicrobial stewardship in food-producing systems. This study estimated the incidence rate of BK among dairy heifers and evaluated animal- and herd-level risk factors, including the field efficacy of a commercial M. bovis vaccine. A year-long prospective cohort study was conducted in 636 dairy heifers across nine farms in South Africa's Mediterranean climatic zone. Heifers were monitored monthly for general health and BK signs. Conjunctival swabs were collected to detect M. bovis, M. bovoculi, and Mesomycoplasma bovoculi. Risk factor data were obtained via structured interviews, environmental monitoring, and weather records. BK incidence density rate (IDR), vaccine efficacy, and risk factor associations were assessed using Poisson models. The BK IDR was 25.1 cases per 100 eye-years (95% CI: 20.7-30.4), peaking in summer. No microbial agents were significantly associated with BK IDR, underscoring its multifactorial nature. Incidence rates were similar between vaccinated and unvaccinated heifers, supporting evidence that current vaccines offer inconsistent protection. Significant animal-level risk factors included younger age, poor body condition, and peri-orbital dermatophytosis. Heifers in drylot enclosures with consistent nutrition showed lower BK incidence. Seasonal increases in solar radiation, lachryphagous fly abundance, and pyrethroid pesticide use were linked to higher BK IDR. Findings support a paradigm shift in BK prevention, emphasizing nutritional resilience, welfare-based heifer management, integrated pest control, and responsible pesticide use.},
}

@article {pmid41831708,
year = {2026},
author = {Sánchez, O and González, IC and Poyo, JG and Ureña, M and Arias, A},
title = {The hidden passengers: On the role of exotic crayfish in the spread of symbiotic and pathogenic organisms in northern Iberian Peninsula.},
journal = {Journal of invertebrate pathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108598},
doi = {10.1016/j.jip.2026.108598},
pmid = {41831708},
issn = {1096-0805},
abstract = {The spread of invasive crayfish species poses a growing threat to freshwater ecosystems and public health, not only through direct ecological impacts but also by facilitating the transmission of symbionts and potential zoonotic pathogens. This study characterizes the symbiont diversity associated with the crayfish species that occur in northern Spain. In addition, the first comprehensive and comparative compilation of reported symbiont and parasite species of crayfish species reported in Iberia is provided. A combination of scanning electron and optical microscopy analysis and a review of the literature was employed to identify the symbionts and evaluate their spatial distribution on the host, their taxonomy, and their zoonotic potential. A total of five crayfish species were analyzed, with symbionts recorded across multiple body regions, particularly the chelipeds, gills, and pleopods. The most prevalent taxa belonged to the phyla Ciliophora, Annelida, and Platyhelminthes. Some symbionts, such as Xironogiton victoriensis and Uncinocythere occidentalis, were identified as obligate ectosymbionts that could have a negative impact on protected species such as Austropotamobius fulcisianus. Furthermore, several symbiont taxa (e.g., Fusarium sp., and Paragonimus spp.) are known to be zoonotic and are associated with conditions such as keratitis, onychomycosis, and paragonimiasis. The results highlight the dual ecological and epidemiological risk posed by crayfish invasions. As vectors of both invasive symbionts and zoonotic agents, these crustaceans may facilitate the emergence of new infectious diseases in freshwater environments. This underscores the need for integrated monitoring strategies that consider symbiont-host dynamics in invasive species management and public health surveillance and highlights the importance of implementing targeted management actions to mitigate ecological impacts and reduce associated health risks.},
}

@article {pmid41831761,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, J and Liu, Z and Yin, X and Guo, Z and Wang, J and He, Z and Liu, W and Luo, H and Xu, X and Yue, X and Zhou, A},
title = {Sustainable hydrogen and vivianite recovery from waste activated sludge in electro-fermentation: Perspectives of product regulation and microbial interaction.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {298},
number = {},
pages = {124248},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2026.124248},
pmid = {41831761},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Zero-valent iron mediated electro-fermentation (EF) has recently emerged as a promising strategy for the synchronous hydrogen and vivianite recovery from waste activated sludge (WAS), while the mechanism of production regulation and microbial interaction still remains unclear. In this study, a comprehensive analysis of hydrogen and phosphorus recovery from prefermented sludge via EF was performed. The substrate reduction (∼2500 mg COD/L, fermentation liquid was diluted 1:1) resulted in the highest hydrogen yield (25.5 mmol/g COD) and complete phosphate recovery at 2 d, the recovered vivianite accomplished the largest crystal size (138.8 μm) with layered structures. The highest utilization efficiency of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and organics was also achieved in 1:1 group. Anaerobic fermentation bacteria (AFB), electroactive bacteria (EAB), homo-acetogens, and nitrate reducing bacteria (NRB) were the predominant microbes in the plankton and bio-cathode, forming a mutually beneficial and stable symbiotic network. Further analysis of metabolic pathways revealed that the 1:1 group exhibited higher abundance of key functional genes involved in hydrolysis, acidification, and hydrogen production. This study may provide the theoretical and technical foundation for sludge valorization in the future implementation of EF in wastewater treatment plants.},
}

@article {pmid41831799,
year = {2026},
author = {Qi, H and Wu, R and Liao, J and Alvarez, PJJ and Yu, P},
title = {Longitudinal multi-omics reveal phase-dependent viral adaptive strategies and functional potential during formation of algal-bacterial granular sludge.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {449},
number = {},
pages = {134410},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134410},
pmid = {41831799},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Virus-prokaryote interactions within microbial aggregates critically influence microbiome function and stability, yet the interactive dynamics during microbial aggregation remain largely unexplored. Here, longitudinal multi-omics revealed that prokaryotic host community diversity underwent decline and subsequent recovery during algal-bacterial granular sludge (ABGS) formation from activated sludge. Declined host diversity in the collapse phase enriched for lysogenic viruses and facilitated virus-host mutualistic symbiosis, during which the proportion of lysogenic metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) peaked at 84% (841,649 TPM), with auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) primarily involved in genetic information processing and amino acid metabolism. Moreover, low host diversity increased viral microdiversity by 1.97-fold and selected for virion structure genes that were conducive to viral fitness and replication. As host diversity recovered during the recovery phase, viruses and hosts engaged in an evolutionary arms race, with both host defense systems (DS) (Spearman's Rho = 0.68, P < 0.05) and viral anti-defense systems (ADS) (Spearman's Rho = 0.51, P < 0.05) enriched along with granule maturation. Furthermore, active lysogenic infections were accompanied by the dissemination of AMGs predominantly associated with the metabolism of cofactors, vitamins, terpenoids, and polyketides. Despite their phase-dependent functional profiles, lysogenic phages with AMGs putatively enhanced the structural and functional stability of the microbiome during ABGS formation. Overall, our study unveils a phase-dependent co-evolutionary interplay between viruses and prokaryotic hosts during ABGS formation, providing insights into virus-mediated microbial structural and functional resilience in engineered ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid41833385,
year = {2026},
author = {Itakura, M and Kakizaki, K and Suzuki, A and Okubo, S and Kato, H and Sugawara, M and Saeki, Y and Minamisawa, K},
title = {Screening of Bradyrhizobium ottawaense with High N2O-reducing Activity from Soybean Nodules in Japan.},
journal = {Microbes and environments},
volume = {41},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1264/jsme2.ME25062},
pmid = {41833385},
issn = {1347-4405},
mesh = {*Bradyrhizobium/genetics/isolation & purification/classification/metabolism/enzymology ; *Glycine max/microbiology ; Japan ; *Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology ; Phylogeny ; *Oxidoreductases/genetics/metabolism ; Symbiosis ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics/chemistry ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; },
abstract = {Bradyrhizobium ottawaense has prospects as an environmentally friendly inoculant for soybean farming because of its higher N2O reductase (N2OR) activity than that of B. diazoefficiens. To examine high N2O-reducing B. ottawaense, we performed a PCR anal-ysis of nosZ genes in 8,640 soybean nodules from 68 fields in Japan. Of 384 PCR-positive nodules, we obtained 90 isolates of bradyrhizobia with B. ottawaense-type nosZ, derived exclusively from 18 fields in Gunma and Osaka prefectures. Of 77 monophyletic isolates, 73 had significantly higher N2OR activity than B. diazoefficiens USDA110. Another 13 isolates‍ ‍from Osaka were phylogenetically placed outside of the B. ottawaense clade with B. liaoningense or B. betae, 8 of which also exhibited significantly higher N2OR activity than B. diazoefficiens USDA110. An anal-ysis of nopP gene sequences revealed amino acid sequence variations in the NopP effector protein among these high N2O-reducing isolates, with the NopPUSDA122 type being one of the variations identified. The NopP-mediated symbiotic incompatibility of soybean host plants may eliminate nodulation by indigenous bradyrhizobia and facilitate inoculant nodulation to reduce N2O emissions. Therefore, 90 isolates and their observed NopP types are‍ ‍potentially important resources for N2O mitigation. Furthermore, the dense geographical map of Bradyrhizobium species based on Internal Transcribed Spacer-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms (ITS-RFLP) of the 16S-23S rRNA gene from 8,640 nodules revealed the recent northward expansion of B. elkanii to central Japan potentially due to global warming. This change in indigenous soybean bradyrhizobia is important for application strategies of bradyrhizobial inoculants under field conditions.},
}

*Bradyrhizobium/genetics/isolation & purification/classification/metabolism/enzymology
*Glycine max/microbiology
Japan
*Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology
Phylogeny
*Oxidoreductases/genetics/metabolism
Symbiosis
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
DNA, Bacterial/genetics/chemistry
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Sequence Analysis, DNA

@article {pmid41833390,
year = {2026},
author = {Ito, S and Matsumoto, S and Kadowaki, M and Sato, H and Saeki, Y and Shiro, S},
title = {Effects of Soil Moisture Content and Rj Genotype Differences on Soybean Productivity and Soybean-nodulating Bradyrhizobial Occupancy.},
journal = {Microbes and environments},
volume = {41},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1264/jsme2.ME25075},
pmid = {41833390},
issn = {1347-4405},
mesh = {*Glycine max/growth & development/microbiology/genetics ; *Soil/chemistry ; Genotype ; *Bradyrhizobium/physiology/genetics/classification/isolation & purification/growth & development ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Water/analysis ; Symbiosis ; Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/growth & development ; Plant Roots/growth & development/microbiology ; },
abstract = {We exami-ned the effects of soil moisture changes on soybean growth, yield, and the structure of soybean-nodulating bradyrhizobial communities in cultivars with different Rj genotypes. The experiment was conducted using cultivation pots with soybean cultivars Bragg (non-Rj), CNS (Rj2Rj3), D-51 (Rj3), and Fukuyutaka (Rj4). Test strains included Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA 110[T], B. japonicum USDA 6[T] and USDA 123, and B. elkanii USDA 31. Cultivation pots were built with 15-cm ridges, and three soil moisture conditions were generated by varying the presence and placement of drainage holes on the pots. Declining soil moisture significantly reduced shoot length, shoot dry weight, root dry weight, root length, nodule number, pod number, pod dry weight, and seed number. An occupancy anal-ysis showed that USDA 110 dominated Fukuyutaka only; across treatments, it was the most abundant under high soil moisture, but significantly declined with reductions in soil moisture, where USDA 31 became dominant. A non-metric multidimensional scaling anal-ysis revealed shifts in community compositions in response to soil moisture and cultivar. Collectively, these results indicate that soybean growth, yield, and symbiosis with bradyrhizobia are strongly affected by soil moisture and also that these effects vary among cultivars.},
}

*Glycine max/growth & development/microbiology/genetics
*Soil/chemistry
Genotype
*Bradyrhizobium/physiology/genetics/classification/isolation & purification/growth & development
*Soil Microbiology
*Water/analysis
Symbiosis
Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology/growth & development
Plant Roots/growth & development/microbiology

@article {pmid41833536,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, H and Cai, LQ and Mou, Q and Sun, YF and Yang, KY and Liang, YS and Li, HS and Pang, H},
title = {A free-living Serratia symbiotica strain enhances aphid development, potentially through alteration of host nutritional composition.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70719},
pmid = {41833536},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//Open Fund of Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Protection and Resource Utilization/ ; //National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; //National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; JCYJ20250604175510013//the Shenzhen Science and Technology Program/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Aphids harbor diverse microbial communities that influence their development, reproduction, and stress tolerance. In our previous work, we identified a free-living strain of Serratia symbiotica, SsMj, which is highly abundant in the gut of Megoura crassicauda. However, the biological effects of SsMj on its aphid host remain largely unknown.

RESULTS: In this study, SsMj- M. crassicauda were generated by rearing newly hatched nymphs separately from their parthenogenetic SsMj+ parents. Absolute quantification of the microbiome revealed that, apart from the loss of SsMj, the overall bacterial abundance and diversity did not differ significantly between SsMj- and SsMj+ aphids. Nevertheless, SsMj- individuals exhibited slower development, smaller body size, reduced survival, and produced more offspring compared to their SsMj+ counterparts. Metabolomic analyses further showed that SsMj- aphids accumulated higher levels of several sugars but lower concentrations of multiple amino acids. Consistently, the insulin-like peptide (ILP) gene showed elevated expression across developmental stages in SsMj- aphids, which is likely to reflect a response to nutrient imbalance. RNA interference targeting ILP significantly delayed development, confirming its regulatory role in aphid growth. Comparative genomics showed that the SsMj genome contains a high number of genes involved in amino acid synthesis pathways than both obligate and facultative S. symbiotica strains, a pattern consistent with other free-living strains.

CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that S. symbiotica plays an essential role in aphid nutrient metabolism, and is likely to be facilitating the conversion of dietary sugars into amino acids to support host development. The fitness benefits conferred by this free-living S. symbiotica strain suggest a close, mutualistic-like association with its aphid host, highlighting its ecological and physiological significance in insect-microbe interactions. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41833568,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, X and Zhang, P and Liu, Y and He, Y and Wang, L and Martin, FM and Zhang, F},
title = {Functional specialisation of ammonium transporters in the ectomycorrhizal fungus Laccaria bicolor.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.71068},
pmid = {41833568},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {31901279//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32271829//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; ANR-11-LABX-0002-01//Laboratory of Excellence ARBRE and the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China/ ; //Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China./ ; },
abstract = {Ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi enhance nitrogen (N) uptake in trees; however, the molecular mechanisms and functional specialisation among transporter isoforms remain poorly understood. Here, we characterised two ammonium transporters, LbAMT1.1a and LbAMT2.3, in the basidiomycete Laccaria bicolor, revealing complementary roles in fungal growth and symbiosis. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that LbAMT1.1a was constitutively expressed during mycelial growth, whereas LbAMT2.3 was specifically induced during ECM formation. RNAi targeting each gene reduced mycelial growth, with LbAMT1.1a silencing producing stronger defects. [15]N-ammonium tracing demonstrated that both RNAi strains exhibited an over 83% reduction in ammonium uptake compared to wild-type. In planta experiments revealed differential impacts on symbiosis. Both RNAi strains showed a 31-60% reduction in ECM formation. LbAMT2.3 RNAi significantly reduced lateral root formation, suggesting an additional role in developmental signalling. Gene expression analysis revealed that LbAMT2.3 silencing suppressed LbAMT1.1a transcript levels, indicating regulatory crosstalk between subfamilies. Dual isotope tracing ([15]N/[13]C) confirmed that impaired fungal N uptake reduces both N transfer and carbon allocation, with LbAMT1.1a disruption having a greater impact. In conclusion, LbAMT1.1a serves as the primary ammonium uptake pathway, whereas LbAMT2.3 functions as both a symbiosis-induced transporter and a positive regulator of LbAMT1 family expression, with an additional role in modulating host root architecture.},
}

@article {pmid41829836,
year = {2026},
author = {Yuan, Y and Jia, Y and Chen, C and Wu, L and Sun, J and Zhou, Q and Wang, H and Chen, Y},
title = {Rhizosheath-Mycorrhizal Interactions in Kengyilia hirsuta Enhance Phosphorus Efficiency.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15050805},
pmid = {41829836},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {2024YFHZ0167//The Sichuan Regional Innovation Cooperation Project/ ; 2021PTJS30//Special Project from the Collaborative Innovation Center for Ecological Animal Husbandry on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Southwest Minzu University/ ; CX2023009//Discipline Construction Project of Southwest Minzu University/ ; ZYN2024013//Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities, Southwest Minzu University/ ; 2024CXTD11//The project number of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau Research Innovation Team/ ; },
abstract = {Phosphorus deficiency is a key factor limiting plant growth in desertified grasslands. Elucidating the adaptive strategies of pioneer plants that integrate root morphology and microbial interactions is crucial for understanding the natural restoration of ecosystems. This study investigated the strategies employed by Kengyilia hirsuta, a pioneer grass species in desertified grasslands, to adapt to low-phosphorus environments. By conducting sand culture experiments under varying phosphorus levels (low, optimal, and high), we focused on elucidating the synergistic adaptive mechanisms involving the root-rhizosheath system. The results showed that the rhizosheath serves as a critical micro-ecological niche for enriching arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and enhancing phosphatase activity. Under low-phosphorus stress, the plant strengthened root hair development and its symbiotic association with AMF, which markedly increased acid phosphatase activity and led to the highest phosphorus use efficiency. At the optimal phosphorus level, the plant developed an efficient "rhizosheath-mycorrhiza" synergistic system, characterized by high AMF colonization and spore density, facilitating optimized carbon-phosphorus exchange. Under phosphorus-sufficient conditions, the adaptive strategy transitioned towards root morphological plasticity, exemplified by increased surface area and branching. Multivariate analysis revealed that the phosphorus absorption efficiency of K. hirsuta is co-regulated by both morphological adaptation and symbiotic optimization. This study elucidates the mechanisms of nutrient stress adaptation in desertified grassland plants, providing a theoretical foundation for understanding the natural restoration processes of degraded ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid41829798,
year = {2026},
author = {Hussain, HA and Liang, Z and Hussain, S and Luo, J and Sui, S and Liu, D},
title = {Harnessing Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis to Enhance Growth and Resilience to Combined Drought and Heat Stress in Lily (Lilium spp.).},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15050767},
pmid = {41829798},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {CSTB2023TIAD-LDX0002//Chongqing Municipal Special Fund for Technological Innovation and Application Development/ ; CSTB2023TIAD-LUX0005//Chongqing Municipal Special Fund for Technological Innovation and Application Development/ ; },
abstract = {Abiotic stresses such as drought and heat increasingly threaten plant growth and ornamental quality, particularly in climate-sensitive floricultural crops. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are known to enhance plant resilience under such conditions, yet their role in lilies remains insufficiently explored. In this study, we used a two-tier experimental approach to evaluate AMF-mediated benefits in lilies. First, different AMF strains, namely Funneliformis mosseae (FM), Rhizophagus intraradices (RI), Rhizophagus irregularis (RIG), Claroideoglomus etunicatum (CE), Diversispora versiformis (DV), and a mixed consortium (MIX), were screened for growth-promoting effects in two Lilium species, Taiwan lily and Lilium cv. Sorbonne, under non-stress conditions. Second, a selected AMF-host combination from the screening was evaluated to improve tolerance to drought, heat, and combined drought + heat stress. Among the tested strains, DV and MIX showed the most consistent improvements across key growth traits and root colonization. In the stress experiment, stress treatments reduced growth and physiological performance, particularly under combined drought + heat. AMF inoculation enhanced plant performance by improving shoot and root biomass, improving root system architecture, and leading to a higher chlorophyll content, greater relative water content, and enhanced flower traits. Biochemical analyses further revealed that AMF mitigated stress-induced oxidative damage by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, as shown by reduced O2•[-] and H2O2 staining. This reduction in oxidative stress was supported by increased activities of key antioxidant enzymes, indicating that AMF activate cellular defense mechanisms. These findings underscore the potential of AMF as a sustainable biotechnological tool for improving stress tolerance in lilies and enhancing floricultural productivity under climate-challenged environments.},
}

@article {pmid41829734,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, Z and Wei, H and Hu, H and Yao, Y and Liang, J and Wu, P},
title = {Kinship Modulates Carbon Allocation and Phosphorus Acquisition in Chinese Fir-AMF Networks Under Neighbor P Limitation.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants15050703},
pmid = {41829734},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {No. 2024J02010//Key Program of Natural Science of Fujian Province, China/ ; No. ZMGG-0801//8th Special Project on Seedling Research and Development of Forestry Science and Technology in Fujian Province, China/ ; },
abstract = {Phosphorus (P) deficiency in forest soils is a key constraint on the sustainable management and productivity of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) plantations. This study investigated how P limitation alters the reciprocal exchange of "photosynthetic carbon and mineral phosphorus" between Chinese fir and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) when the focal plant grows adjacent to neighbors with different degrees of relatedness. An indoor pot experiment simulating heterogeneous P supply was conducted using clonal seedlings of Chinese fir No. 36 as the focal plant, with Chinese fir No. 36, Chinese fir No. 41, and Schima superba as neighboring plants to establish three two-plant combinations: a kin pair (No. 36 + No. 36), a close-kin pair (No. 36 + No. 41), and an unrelated-kin pair (No. 36 + S. superba). Funneliformis mosseae was inoculated into the shared root-zone room connecting the two plants, and the neighbor was subjected to a gradient of P limitation (sufficient P, low P, and zero P). Meanwhile, the focal No. 36 plant received [13]CO2 pulse labeling to form a "Chinese fir-AMF-P-limited neighbor" symbiotic network in which No. 36 served as the [13]C donor. AMF colonization, seedling growth, and changes in [13]C enrichment and P concentration in plant tissues of the focal plant were quantified. Neighbor P limitation significantly increased AMF colonization in roots and whole-plant P concentration of the focal Chinese fir. Following [13]CO2 pulse labeling, whole-plant [13]C enrichment of the focal plant increased significantly under the neighbor zero P treatment, suggesting enhanced carbon allocation under severe neighbor P limitation. Moreover, under the neighbor zero P treatment, focal plants grown with an unrelated-kin neighbor showed significant increases in stem P concentration (1.86 g·kg[-1]) and stem atom% [13]C (1.50%), whereas focal plants grown with a kin neighbor exhibited a significant increase in root Atom% [13]C (1.29%). These patterns indicate that neighbor relatedness may modulate carbon allocation and P acquisition within the mycorrhizal network: in the kin context, the focal plant tended to allocate more photosynthetic carbon belowground and may partially subsidize the AMF carbon demand (i.e., a higher C reward), coinciding with a relatively weaker P accumulation in its own tissues; in contrast, in the unrelated kin context, carbon allocation shifted toward stems and was associated with strengthened P accumulation in stem tissues. Overall, the results highlight the dynamic nature of AMF-mediated carbon-nutrient reciprocity across hosts of contrasting relatedness and provide new insights into how mycorrhizal networks may facilitate plant adaptation to nutrient limitation.},
}

@article {pmid41829161,
year = {2026},
author = {Infante-Neta, AA and D'Almeida, AP and Lima, RS and Cecília, JA and da Silva Junior, IJ and Gonçalves, LB and de Albuquerque, TL},
title = {Waste Valorization of Passion Fruit Peel Hydrolysate for Bacterial Cellulose Production: Influence of Nitrogen Source on Yield and Functional Properties for Food Packaging.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods15050888},
pmid = {41829161},
issn = {2304-8158},
abstract = {The valorization of agro-industrial residues represents a strategic approach to advancing sustainability and circular bioeconomy principles in the food sector. Although bacterial cellulose (BC) production from waste substrates has been widely explored, limited attention has been given to the role of nitrogen source modulation in complex fermentation systems. This study evaluated passion fruit peel hydrolysate (PFPH), a cellulose- and hemicellulose-rich by-product, as an alternative carbon source for BC production using a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) under static conditions. Acid hydrolysis and detoxification were performed to obtain fermentable sugars while minimizing inhibitory compounds. Different nitrogen sources and purification strategies were comparatively assessed. The highest purified BC yield (81 g L[-1] of culture medium) was obtained using ammonium sulfate, whereas sodium nitrate promoted greater impurity removal (77.51% mass reduction). Structural and chemical analyses (FTIR, XPS, and XRD) confirmed effective delignification, enhanced surface purity, and increased crystallinity. SEM revealed a homogeneous nanofibrillar network, and thermogravimetric analysis indicated thermal stability up to approximately 300 °C. Soil burial assays showed 26% mass loss after 42 days, demonstrating controlled biodegradation consistent with food packaging requirements. Overall, PFPH proved to be an efficient and sustainable substrate for BC biosynthesis. The modulation of nitrogen source significantly influenced both production yield and structural properties, highlighting the potential of this system for developing environmentally responsible biopolymer materials for food packaging applications.},
}

@article {pmid41828632,
year = {2026},
author = {Kastuganova, K and Askerov, A and Szabó, A and Barteneva, NS},
title = {Systematic Review: Long-Read Sequencing in Algal Studies.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27052415},
pmid = {41828632},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {AP26104995//Ministry of High Education and Sciences, Kazakhstan/ ; FDCRGP grant #SSH2024005//Nazarbayev University/ ; },
mesh = {*High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; Genomics/methods ; Symbiosis/genetics ; Microbiota/genetics ; },
abstract = {Long-read sequencing (LRS) has transformed life science research by introducing third-generation sequencing (TGS) platforms applicable across various research fields, including environmental sciences. In the past decade, LRS platforms have been utilized to extensively study algal systems by improving genomic approaches such as metabarcoding, chromosome-level genome and pangenome assemblies, as well as providing new insights into algae-associated microbiomes and host-symbiont interactions. This review aims to discuss recent advancements in LRS in algal research. To achieve this aim, a systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and across three electronic databases (Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar), with additional citation searching for relevant studies in four key algal research areas: metabarcoding, genomics, pangenomics, and host-symbionts interactions. Following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, only 51 studies were selected for this review. Throughout the review, we summarize the challenges of short-read sequencing (SRS) and discuss how LRS platforms address these challenges in algal studies. Furthermore, we discuss the future of LRS and explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can advance research on algal biology and ecology.},
}

*High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods
Genomics/methods
Symbiosis/genetics
Microbiota/genetics

@article {pmid41828348,
year = {2026},
author = {Leemann, RG and Liu, Y and Hjørungnes, M and Bailly, A and Bellés-Sancho, P and Pessi, G},
title = {Paraburkholderia phymatum STM815[T] Pectate Lyase Has a Negative Impact on Nitrogen-Fixing Symbiosis with Common Bean.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27052119},
pmid = {41828348},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {310030_215282/SNSF_/Swiss National Science Foundation/Switzerland ; 1462/2025//Vontobel Stiftung/ ; },
mesh = {*Nitrogen Fixation ; *Symbiosis ; *Polysaccharide-Lyases/genetics/metabolism ; *Phaseolus/microbiology ; *Burkholderiaceae/enzymology/genetics ; Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {In the face of global challenges such as food insecurity, environmental degradation, and climate change, biological nitrogen fixation by rhizobia has become increasingly crucial for supporting sustainable agriculture and reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Paraburkholderia phymatum STM815[T] is a beta-proteobacterial rhizobium notable for its exceptionally broad host range, forming nitrogen-fixing symbioses with over 50 legume species. In this study, we identified pelB on the P. phymatum STM815[T] symbiotic plasmid, which codes for a pectate lyase, whose expression is activated by the presence of pectin in the medium and during symbiosis with common bean. In the absence of pelB, P. phymatum STM815[T] shows improved symbiotic performance with common bean. Plants infected with the pelB mutant developed fewer but larger nodules and exhibited a 43% increase in nitrogenase activity, suggesting that pelB in P. phymatum STM815[T] may negatively affect nodulation efficiency and nitrogen fixation in common bean.},
}

*Nitrogen Fixation
*Symbiosis
*Polysaccharide-Lyases/genetics/metabolism
*Phaseolus/microbiology
*Burkholderiaceae/enzymology/genetics
Root Nodules, Plant/microbiology
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid41826648,
year = {2026},
author = {Sung, Y and Kim, DK and Kim, JS and Kim, SJ and Kim, JH and Han, JM},
title = {Metabolic networks in the tumor microenvironment: roles of amino acid and lipid metabolism pathways in cancer progression and therapy.},
journal = {Experimental & molecular medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s12276-026-01697-0},
pmid = {41826648},
issn = {2092-6413},
support = {RS-2023-00219297//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; RS-2025-00573098//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; RS-2025-18362970//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; NRF-2022R1A5A2027161//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; NRF-2023R1A2C1006159//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; RS-2024-00334337//Korea Drug Development Fund (KDDF)/ ; },
abstract = {Metabolic rewiring, a defining hallmark of cancer, sustains cell proliferation and biosynthesis while coordinating adaptive interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent advances reveal that metabolism in the TME-comprising stromal, immune and endothelial components forms a complex metabolic network in which intercellular competition, cooperation and plasticity profoundly influence tumor progression and therapeutic responses. Here we integrate emerging evidence on the organizational principles of amino acid and lipid metabolism within the TME, emphasizing how nutrient fluxes shape immune evasion, therapeutic resistance and metabolic symbiosis. We highlight key mechanisms through which cancer and nonmalignant cells engage in reciprocal nutrient manipulation, focusing on glutamine, arginine, tryptophan, branched-chain amino acids and lipids. The dual roles of these metabolites in immune regulation and tumor growth reveal the limitations of traditional single-pathway targeting and advocate for a network-centric therapeutic approach. We further discuss how metabolite-derived signaling and epigenetic regulation reinforce cell state transitions and immune suppression. Current and emerging therapeutic strategies, including multitarget combinations and immune-metabolic synergies, are evaluated alongside translational challenges. Finally, we underscore the need for spatial metabolomics, liquid biopsy platforms and artificial intelligence-driven modeling to map nutrient competition and cooperative exchange within the TME, offering new opportunities for precision metabolic interventions.},
}

@article {pmid41826362,
year = {2026},
author = {Gabandé-Rodríguez, E and Gómez de Las Heras, MM and Ramírez-Ruiz de Erenchun, P and Simó, C and García-Cañas, V and Inohara, N and Berenguer-López, I and Enríquez-Zarralanga, V and Fernández-Almeida, Á and Oller, J and Soto-Heredero, G and Carrasco, E and Vázquez-Muñoz, C and Delgado-Pulido, S and Escrig-Larena, JI and Francos-Quijorna, I and Justo-Méndez, R and Aranda, JF and Poulton, J and Lechuga-Vieco, AV and Enríquez, JA and Núñez, G and Mittelbrunn, M},
title = {Butyrate extends health and lifespan in mice with mitochondrial deficiency.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41467-026-70547-4},
pmid = {41826362},
issn = {2041-1723},
abstract = {Mitochondrial diseases progressively lead to multisystemic failure with treatment options remaining extremely limited. Here, to investigate strategies that alleviate mitochondrial dysfunction, we first generate a ubiquitous and tamoxifen-inducible knockout mouse model of mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), a nuclear-encoded protein involved in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) maintenance - Tfam[fl/fl]Ubc[Cre-ERT2] (iTfamKO) mice. Systemic TFAM deficiency triggers mitochondrial decline in a myriad of tissues in adult mice. Consequently, iTfamKO mice manifest multiorgan dysfunction including lipodystrophy, sarcopenia, metabolic alterations, kidney failure, neurodegeneration, and locomotor dysregulation, which result in the premature death of these mice. Interestingly, iTfamKO mice display intestinal barrier disruption and gut dysbiosis, with diminished levels of microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyrate. Mice with a deficient proof-reading version of the mtDNA polymerase gamma (mtDNA-mutator mice) phenocopy the dysfunction of the intestinal barrier and bacterial dysbiosis with reduced levels of butyrate, suggesting that different mouse models of mitochondrial dysfunction share insufficient generation of butyrate. Transfer of microbiota from healthy control mice or administration of tributyrin, a butyrate precursor, delay multiple signs of multimorbidity, extending lifespan in iTfamKO mice. Mechanistically, butyrate supplementation recovers epigenetic histone acylation marks that are lost in the intestine of Tfam deficient mice. Overall, our findings highlight the relevance of preserving host-microbiota symbiosis in disorders related to mitochondrial dysfunction.},
}

@article {pmid41826186,
year = {2026},
author = {Boyd, BM and Bush, SE and Dale, C},
title = {Untangling nature's experiment with lice and endosymbiotic bacteria.},
journal = {Trends in parasitology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.pt.2026.01.015},
pmid = {41826186},
issn = {1471-5007},
abstract = {Insects have formed close relationships with endosymbiotic microorganisms, enabling adaptation and promoting diversification. In this review, we examined studies of endosymbiotic bacteria in parasitic lice (Psocodea: Phthiraptera). Lice and their endosymbionts lead fairly secluded lives, with each louse-host and louse-endosymbiont pair evolving in relative isolation. Consequently, each louse lineage and its associated endosymbiont represents natural replicates, useful for understanding how endosymbiosis arises and evolves under similar ecological conditions. While louse endosymbionts are vertically transmitted, they show surprisingly low levels of cospeciation with their louse hosts. Instead, phylogenomic evidence indicates repeated, independent acquisitions of endosymbionts from free-living progenitors. Following each acquisition, endosymbiont lineages experienced elevated evolutionary rates and genomic reduction, losing functionally redundant pathways while retaining functions necessary to maintain the symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid41825597,
year = {2026},
author = {Winberg, A and Sjödin, KS and Öhlund, M and West, CE},
title = {LOSS OF SYMBIOTIC GUT BACTERIA IN CHILDREN AT DIAGNOSIS OF FOOD PROTEIN INDUCED ENTEROCOLITIS SYNDROME.},
journal = {The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jaci.2026.02.043},
pmid = {41825597},
issn = {1097-6825},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Gut microbial composition has been proposed to influence disease onset in children with food protein induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES).

OBJECTIVE: To investigate differences in gut microbiota profiles in children with newly diagnosed FPIES and healthy controls.

METHODS: Fecal samples were collected at FPIES diagnosis from 56 children stratified into three age groups: young infants at mean (SD) age 4.6 (0.5) months, infants at 6.5 (0.6) months and young children, at 11.7 (7.8) months. Gut microbiota profiles were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and compared between children with FPIES and 43 age matched controls.

RESULTS: Age was the strongest determinant of gut microbiota composition, followed by FPIES status. ß-diversity differed significantly between children with FPIES and controls (p<0.01), primarily driven by shifts in Bacteroidota, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, and Verrucomicrobiota. Children with FPIES had lower Bifidobacterium and higher abundances of Bacteroides, Haemophilus, and Veillonella. FPIES food triggers were associated with reduced Verrucomicrobiota abundance.

CONCLUSION: Children with FPIES exhibit gut microbial dysbiosis characterized by reduced Bifidobacterium and Verrucomicrobiota abundance, suggesting potential links between early-life microbiota development and disease pathogenesis.},
}

@article {pmid41825416,
year = {2026},
author = {Gao, T and Li, Y and Yang, N and Liang, X and Lin, L},
title = {Reservoir hydrological fluctuations induce rhizosphere N-cycling divergent patterns: integrating root multi-adaptive strategies perspectives.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {404},
number = {},
pages = {129330},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129330},
pmid = {41825416},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Dam regulation-induced water level fluctuations (WLFs) significantly impact plant distributions and their interactions with microbes in drawdown zones, driving ecosystem functionality and nutrient dynamics. However, an integrated understanding of how periodic WLFs affect root adaptive traits and rhizosphere microbial dynamics to regulate nitrogen cycling remains limited. To address this, we compared WLF-affected zones (Zones I-II) with an unflooded zone (Zone III) to examine root multi-adaptive strategies, microbial structure and assembly, and nitrogen-cycling divergences. Root economics space (RES) results indicated the root nutrient foraging strategy across Zones I-III. Crucially, WLFs promoted convergent resource acquisition strategies (community-weighted mean-based and functional dispersion-based) and shifted root trait networks toward higher path length, diameter, modularity, but lower edge density. We further tested whether these adaptive strategies are related to rhizosphere microbial dynamics. We found that WLFs resulted in diverse and stochastic rhizobacterial distribution, which was induced by 'outsourcing' traits (distributed on one side of the 'collaboration gradient' of RES) and key environmental drivers. Given the reduced linkage in trait networks and destabilized N-functional microbial co-occurrence networks, structural equation modeling indicated that WLFs enhanced symbiotic root-rhizobacteria relationships. Furthermore, functional traits (Root N and root length) and key soil properties jointly suppressed N-transformation in Zone I, while divergently regulated N-fixation, denitrification, and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium in Zone II. The reduction of N-transformation was linked to resource scarcity in Zone III. These findings establish that WLFs foster root-microbe cooperation to regulate N-cycles, providing a theoretical basis for managing reservoir operations and riparian ecological functions.},
}

@article {pmid41825400,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, CZ and Fu, HM and Li, TX and Gao, XY and Hu, Q and Yan, P and Guo, JS and Xu, XW and Chen, YP},
title = {Light-driven community assembly and functional performance of aeration-free filamentous algae-partial nitrification/anammox granule.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {297},
number = {},
pages = {125694},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125694},
pmid = {41825400},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {The algae-partial nitrification/anammox (A-PNA) process offers significant advantages for carbon-neutral wastewater nitrogen removal. This study successfully established a zero-aeration filamentous algal-PNA (FA-PNA) granular system by incorporating Pantanalinema sp. under stepwise increasing light intensities (0, 15, 60 and 90 μmol·m[-2]·s[-1]). Increasing light intensity promoted the enrichment of extracellular polymeric substances and filamentous algae, facilitating granular growth and achieving a nitrogen removal rate of 85 mg N·(L·d)[-1]. Quorum-sensing signaling molecules concentration increased significantly with light intensity, particularly C6-HSL (p < 0.05). Symbiotic network and transcriptomic analyses identified Pantanalinema sp. served as a central interactive hub. It formed potential cross-feeding network with the microorganisms (Nitrosomonas europaea, Candidatus Brocadia sapporoensis, and Denitratisoma sp.) based on B vitamins (vitamin B1, vitamin B2, biotin, folate, and cobalamin) and molybdenum cofactor (MOCO). Under elevated light, these microorganisms upregulated the transcriptional expression levels of key genes involved in B vitamins and MOCO synthesis, signaling molecule production, and reactive oxygen species scavenging, forming an integrated network. This synergistic "stress protection-signaling-metabolite exchange" network effectively alleviated light-induced metabolic suppression. Additionally, Candidatus Brocadia sapporoensis exhibited superior light adaptation potential compared to Candidatus Kuenenia stuttgartiensis_A and Candidatus Jettenia sp., identifying its suitability for FA-PNA systems. Overall, FA-PNA system provides a promising route for low-energy, carbon-negative nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment.},
}

@article {pmid41823843,
year = {2026},
author = {Dong, M and Sun, S},
title = {Root Fungal Endophyte Communities Differ Among Plant Functional Groups in an Alpine Meadow.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology15050415},
pmid = {41823843},
issn = {2079-7737},
abstract = {Disparities in root fungal endophyte (RFE) communities are well documented among plant species, yet differences among plant functional groups (PFGs) remain unclear. Given that RFE community structure is influenced by host plant abundance and species-specific root functional traits, and that PFGs exhibit divergent relative abundances and root traits, we hypothesize that PFGs harbor unique RFE communities, potentially aligned with their functional traits. We investigated RFE communities in 45 alpine meadow species representing four PFGs (grasses, legumes, dicot forbs, and monocot forbs), using high-throughput sequencing. Ascomycota dominated all groups (>50%) except monocot forbs (38.9%). Distinct differences in the RFE community species composition were found among PFGs. In particular, the differences were significant between dicot forbs and monocot forbs, and between monocot forbs and grasses, which contradicted with conventional PFG classification that combined monocot and dicot forbs as a single PFG. Moreover, marker operational taxonomic units (OTUs) with symbiotic lifestyles were more abundant in legumes, and their functional composition differed significantly from grasses. Roots' nitrogen concentration was the strongest predictor of RFE variation, followed by root length, biomass, and species abundance. These results emphasize the importance of integrating microbial partners into understanding plants' functional diversity and ecosystem resilience in alpine environments.},
}

@article {pmid41821961,
year = {2026},
author = {Kawano, K and Morimura, H and Awano, T and Kikuchi, Y and Sawayama, S and Nakagawa, S},
title = {Subcuticular symbionts of intertidal brittle stars: diversity, host specificity, and functional potential.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag034},
pmid = {41821961},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Echinoderms, widely distributed and abundant marine invertebrates, host diverse microbial communities, including subcuticular symbiotic bacteria (SCB). However, the diversity and functional roles of these bacteria remain largely unexplored in intertidal brittle stars. Here, we utilized both culture-dependent and -independent methods to investigate SCBs in three different intertidal brittle star species. Amplicon sequencing revealed distinct subcuticular microbiota among the three brittle star species, with Endozoicomonadaceae dominating in Ophiarachnella gorgonia, Spirochaetota prevalent in O. exigua, and Entomoplasmatales enriched in O. japonicus. Fluorescence in situ hybridization further demonstrated that these bacteria formed microcolonies within the subcuticular space of the arms. We successfully isolated strain ToK13[T], which possesses a nearly identical 16S rRNA gene sequence to that of the predominantly detected SCB. Sequence similarity analysis revealed that ToK13[T] exhibited 98.29%, 98.22%, and 98.16% 16S rRNA gene sequence identities to Kistimonas asteriae KMD 001[T], K. scapharcae JCM 17805[T], and K. alittae BGP-2[T], respectively. This isolate is an obligate aerobic heterotroph i.e. capable of utilizing various monosaccharides. Genomic analysis identified genes associated with host interaction and symbiosis, including those involved in the biosynthesis of multiple vitamins, cofactors, and secondary metabolites with potential antimicrobial activity. Competition assays with co-cultured isolates revealed that strain ToK13[T] inhibits the growth of several bacterial taxa. Collectively, these findings suggest that host-specific SCBs may contribute to the survival strategies of brittle stars by mediating microbial interactions and potentially influencing host fitness.},
}

@article {pmid41821566,
year = {2026},
author = {Pelanda, H and Rulli, E and Sultanov, M and Adornato, S and Rigante, D},
title = {Highlights on the Contribution of Gut Microbiota to Immune-Mediated Diseases in Childhood.},
journal = {Mediterranean journal of hematology and infectious diseases},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {e2026025},
pmid = {41821566},
issn = {2035-3006},
abstract = {The gut microbiota, a vast community of symbiotic microorganisms inhabiting our gut, has been recognized as a key-lever for human health, shaping immune system resilience and being essential for immunological homeostasis throughout the life course. Gut microbiota composition may influence both initiation and/or perpetuation of intestinal inflammation, but recent research has highlighted its contribution to both rising and progression of protean non-intestinal inflammatory diseases: indeed, a perturbation of host-associated microbiota during critical developmental stages like early childhood can directly condition many cellular dynamics and impact long-term health. This narrative review explores the interactions among gut microbiota, physiologic healthy equilibrium, dysbiosis, and immune-mediated non-intestinal inflammatory diseases occurring in childhood, such as inflammasome-based disorders, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Kawasaki disease, and IgA vasculitis, focusing on how microbial changes may alter disease outcomes and suggesting potentially novel therapeutic approaches. Additionally, this review examines the evolution of immune recognition mechanisms and their role in maintaining the gut microbiota-host mutualism as a result of millennia of human co-evolution with the microbial counterpart.},
}

@article {pmid41821210,
year = {2026},
author = {Ren, Y and Yang, C and Ji, H and Xie, K and Mao, H and Zeng, D and Wang, L and Wang, S and Xu, G and Chen, A},
title = {Two mycorrhiza-responsive MADS transcription factors, OsMADS61 and OsMADS26, regulate both direct and mycorrhizal nitrate transport pathways.},
journal = {Journal of integrative plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jipb.70224},
pmid = {41821210},
issn = {1744-7909},
support = {32172670//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Most land plants have evolved both a direct root uptake pathway and a symbiotic pathway, via association with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, to facilitate nutrient acquisition, particularly of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N), from soil. Recently, we revealed a highly efficient symbiotic pathway for nitrate uptake, mediated by an AM-specific NPF/NRT1 transporter, OsNPF4.5, in rice. However, the regulatory mechanism controlling the AM-specialized expression of OsNPF4.5 remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that two cis-acting elements, the CArG and GCC box, are essential for activating the expression of OsNPF4.5 in rice mycorrhizal roots. Deletion of either of the two motifs in its promoter caused almost complete abolition of the promoter activity of OsNPF4.5. An AM-responsive MADS (MCM1, AG, DEFA, and SRF) transcript factor, OsMADS61, could positively regulate OsNPF4.5 and another nitrate transporter gene, OsNRT2.2, involved in direct nitrate uptake. Knockout of OsMADS61 decreased root biomass, N accumulation, and mycorrhization efficiency in its mutants. OsMADS61 could be directly regulated by another AM-upregulated OsMADS paralog, OsMADS26, which itself can also activate OsNPF4.5, OsNRT2.2, and OsNAR2.1, encoding a nitrate transporter-activating protein. Together, our results reveal a dual regulatory role for OsMADS61 and OsMADS26 in governing both direct and symbiotic nitrate uptake pathways.},
}

@article {pmid41820838,
year = {2026},
author = {Açar, İ and Sarpkaya, K and Abid, I and Farooq, S and Yıldız, Z},
title = {Morphological and physiological responses of Pistacia rootstocks to salinity stress and commercial microbial formulation.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12870-026-08568-w},
pmid = {41820838},
issn = {1471-2229},
support = {16128//Harran Üniversitesi/ ; ORF-Ctr-2025-6//King Saud University/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41820734,
year = {2026},
author = {Terkar, A and Raut, A and Kulkarni, J and Barvkar, VT and Borde, M},
title = {Effect of epigenetic modulation on metabolites from endophytes isolated from Embelia ribes.},
journal = {International microbiology : the official journal of the Spanish Society for Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41820734},
issn = {1618-1905},
support = {(UGC-284)//University Grants Commission under Special Assistance Programme (SAP) DSA-I, India ./ ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Fungal endophytes share a symbiotic relationship with the host plants. Endophytes from medicinal plants produce metabolites similar to plants as well as some new metabolites, which serve as a promising medicinal source with, significant potential in the field of biomedicine. Epigenetic modifiers, such as DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors, activate cryptic biosynthesis gene clusters, resulting in a significant increase in cryptic metabolite production. This study elucidated the alteration in the metabolite profiles of two endophytes isolated from the medicinal plant Embelia ribes after treatment with two epigenetic modulators.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study assessed the effect of epigenetic modifiers-Azacitidine (AZ) and Sodium butyrate (SB)-on the metabolite profiles of Phomopsis azadirachtae and Diaporthe phaseolorum. Different concentrations of AZ and SB (1, 10, 50, 100, and 500 mM) were employed to assess their impact on the fungal endophyte cultures. Metabolome analysis was performed to observe the alteration of metabolites.

RESULTS: LC-MS analysis revealed 47 targeted metabolites in the AZ-treated P. azadirachtae culture. Treatment with AZ significantly affected the production of metabolites compared with the control. AZ treatment also altered the production of nine silent metabolites; namely dicerandrol B, phomosine A, epiepoxydon, taxol, cladosporine, phomonaphthalenone A, phomophyllin A, 3-indolepropionic acid (3-IPA) and ergosterol in P. azadirachtae culture. Two metabolites enhanced their production compared to the control. A total of 47 metabolites were identified in P. azadirachtae culture treated with SB, which also altered 11 silent metabolites and enhanced production of six metabolites; cytosporone B, phomophyllin A, phomosine A, phomosin B, laiolactol A, and ergosterol P by logarithmic analysis. Similarly, 41 metabolites were identified in D. phaseolorum culture treated with various concentrations of AZ. In D. phaseolorum culture treated with AZ, an epigenetic modification activated 11 silent metabolites-Cytochalasin N, bostrycoidin, phomonaphthalenone, phomopsterone, dicerandrol A, pinselin, indole-3-acetic acid, betulinic acid, phomophyllin A, dalienxanthone B and phomopoxide A. Two metabolites, phomosine A and zeatin riboside, were enhanced in majority of the AZ treatments compared to control by logarithmic analysis. SB treatment significantly modulated the metabolite profile of D. phaseolorum, with LC-MS analysis detecting 46 targeted compounds across different concentrations. The treatment activated 11 previously silent bioactive metabolites, including Ganodermaside D, lithocarpinol A, dalienxanthone B, cladospirone, dicerandrol B, libertellenone, phomonaphthalenone A, phomopoxide A, phomopsichin B, phomopsterone B, and cladospirone. Three metabolites, pinselin, dicerandrol A, and phmosine A was significantly enhanced in most of the SB treatments compared to control.

CONCLUSION: AZ treatment induced significant, concentration, dependent alterations in the metabolite profile of P. azadirachtae, with the most pronounced effects observed at the P1AZ concentration. Multivariate and clustering analyses revealed clear metabolic differentiation between treated and control cultures. A total of 47 targeted metabolites were detected under AZ treatment, including nine previously silent metabolites consistently induced across all concentrations. Notably, AZ exposure enhanced the production of phomophyllin A and phaseolorine, indicating the selective activation of cryptic biosynthetic pathways in P. azadirachtae. SB treatment significantly altered the secondary metabolite profile of P. azadirachtae in a dose-dependent manner. Metabolomic analysis detected 47 compounds in SB-treated cultures, with the most pronounced metabolic changes observed at the P50SB and P500SB concentrations. SB exposure activated a previously silent biosynthetic gene cluster responsible for the production of 11 metabolites. Furthermore, log fold-change analysis demonstrated significant and consistent upregulation of six metabolites across most SB treatments, highlighting SB's effectiveness in activating cryptic secondary metabolism in P. azadirachtae. In AZ-treated D. phaseolorum cultures, epigenetic alteration triggered 11 metabolites. Log fold change analysis reported significant upregulation of two metabolites. In D. phaseolorum, SB treatments detected 46 targeted compounds across different concentrations. The treatment activated 11 previously silent bioactive metabolites. and significantly increased the levels of three metabolites compared with controls. These findings demonstrate that the epigenetic modulators AZ and SB altered secondary metabolite profiles in fungal endophytes, indicating their potential to activate silent biosynthetic pathways. These findings support their use as exploratory tools for metabolite discovery, while highlighting the need for multi-omics and structural validation in future work.},
}

@article {pmid41820342,
year = {2026},
author = {Obana, N and Nakato, G and Nomura, N and Fukuda, S},
title = {A genetic toolkit for the human gut bacterium Mediterraneibacter gnavus identifies capsular polysaccharides as a competitive colonization factor.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41467-026-69022-x},
pmid = {41820342},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {JPMJER1902//MEXT | JST | Exploratory Research for Advanced Technology (ERATO)/ ; 25K01926//MEXT | Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)/ ; 23H05471//MEXT | Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)/ ; },
abstract = {Mediterraneibacter gnavus is a human symbiotic gut bacterium whose abundance often increases in patients with various diseases, such as active inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the genetic factors governing its gut colonization and pathogenicity remain elusive due to the lack of genetic modification systems. In this study, we developed several genetic tools for M. gnavus, including a shuttle vector, an inducible promoter, fluorescent reporters, and systems for gene disruption and deletion. Using these genetic tools, we constructed mutants for six of the eight sortase-encoding genes in M. gnavus ATCC 29149 and identified those involved in the surface presentation of capsular polysaccharide (CPS) and superantigen-like proteins. We also identified a CPS biosynthetic gene cluster adjacent to the sortase gene and demonstrated that CPS production is crucial for competitive colonization in germ-free mouse intestines. Notably, CPS production was inversely correlated with inflammatory activity, and CPS cluster-positive strains were more prevalent in healthy individuals than in Crohn's disease patients. These findings suggest that CPS contributes to the modulation of inflammation and pathogenesis. This study highlights the potential of precise gene-modification systems to uncover genetic determinants of intestinal colonization and pathogenesis in gut bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid41820263,
year = {2026},
author = {D'Agostino, L and Raturi, G and Shi, H and Lohani, N and Patange, A and Lamb, M and Patil, O and Trivedi, P and Nguyen, HT and Patil, GB},
title = {Integrative Genomic Analysis Reveals Modular Control of Mycorrhizal Fungi and Rhizobia Symbiosis in Soybean.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/pce.70491},
pmid = {41820263},
issn = {1365-3040},
}

@article {pmid41821950,
year = {2025},
author = {De León, ME and Fox, EGP and Dunaj, S and Jenner, RA and Keiser, CN and Macrander, J and Nixon, SA and Nobile, CJ and Petras, D and Rodriguez-Roman, E and Saviola, AJ and Trim, SA and Varona, NS and Yeager, J and Ul-Hasan, S and Herzig, V and Colston, TJ},
title = {A review of the venom microbiome and its utility in ecology and evolution including future directions for emerging research.},
journal = {Symbiosis (Philadelphia, Pa.)},
volume = {95},
number = {1},
pages = {3-27},
pmid = {41821950},
issn = {0334-5114},
abstract = {Microbes play vital roles in ecological systems, yet their presence and functions within venom environments of venomous organisms remain understudied. Despite the prevalent belief in the sterility of venoms, recent findings reveal diverse microbial communities within venom systems. This review aims to explore the relationships between venoms and microbes, highlighting their potential roles in evolutionary processes, ecological interactions, and therapeutic advancements. Venoms, composed of toxins utilized in hunting or defense, represent a rich source of natural products with applications in drug discovery and therapy, exemplified by FDA-approved venom toxin-derived drugs. Understanding microbial resistance mechanisms against antimicrobial peptides can illuminate coevolutionary processes and guide therapeutic development. Integrating hologenomic evolution and microbial ecology frameworks will facilitate comprehensive research on venom-microbiome interactions, and reveal the evolutionary drivers of venom diversification. Investigating and investing in these relationships promises advancements in understanding evolution, ecology, and biotechnology, with implications for human health and ecological conservation. This review synthesizes existing knowledge, identifies many gaps in literature, and investigates critical unanswered questions in the field of venom microbiology, encouraging ongoing and future collaborative research.},
}

@article {pmid41820103,
year = {2026},
author = {Shi, Y and Liu, H and Fernie, AR and Zhang, Y and Yang, W and Wang, H},
title = {Toward a multiomics framework for understanding symbiotic nitrogen fixation.},
journal = {Trends in plant science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tplants.2026.01.008},
pmid = {41820103},
issn = {1878-4372},
abstract = {Reducing dependence on synthetic nitrogen fertilizer requires biologically grounded alternatives. Symbiotic nitrogen fixation supplies fixed nitrogen but is restricted to a narrow angiosperm clade, limiting direct deployment in most major nonleguminous crops. We synthesize how telomere-to-telomere genomes and pangenomes expose structural and regulatory variants for nodulation; how single-cell and spatial transcriptomics resolve stage-specific cell states and division of labor; and how epigenomic and 3D genome maps reveal principles of regulatory control for infection, organogenesis, and fixation. Extending to actinorhizal symbioses tests single- versus multiple-origin models. We present an artificial intelligence-guided roadmap that integrates sequence, chromatin accessibility, and expression data to prioritize regulatory elements, propose compact edit sets, and guide cell type-specific deployment in nonleguminous crops, advancing from descriptive catalogs to testable models and iterative validation.},
}

@article {pmid41819687,
year = {2026},
author = {Ribeiro, FV and Santos, HF and Fagundes, TSF and Moreira, DL and de Paula, GE and Almeida, P and Saliba, BM and Carmo, FL and Ferreira, CEL and Pereira, RC},
title = {Microbial pollution disables the chemical defenses of sea fans.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {227},
number = {},
pages = {119534},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.119534},
pmid = {41819687},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {In coastal ecosystems, chemically rich species like gorgonians rely on specialized metabolites and symbiotic microbes for health and defense. In the Southwestern Atlantic, the elephant ear coral Phyllogorgia dilatata builds structurally complex forests and provides habitat for several species. Recent declines in cover have been linked to widespread disease, fouling, and necrosis. The loss of chemical defense due to anthropic perturbation has never been reported in the marine environment. We investigated whether pollution-driven stress could lead to a dysfunctional holobiont and impairment of its chemical defense. Using chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry and molecular networking, we profiled secondary metabolites and used 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to characterize microbial communities, relating these data to visual surveys of P. dilatata gorgonian forests. Defense compounds were found only in colonies far from pollution sources and correlated with bacteria associated with healthier environments. In contrast, pathogenic and sewage-associated bacteria dominated near the polluted site, where defenseless colonies of P. dilatata showed more disease and impaired health. Our results indicate that microbial pollution affects the capacity to modulate the microbiome through the use of infochemicals and leads to disruption of symbiosis and loss of chemical defense.},
}

@article {pmid41819177,
year = {2026},
author = {Liermann, W and Vogel, L and Gnott, M and Dannenberger, D and Reyer, H and Trakooljul, N and Mielenz, M and Starke, A and Tröscher, A and Hammon, HM},
title = {Influences of an abomasal fatty acid supplementation during late gestation and early lactation on the jejunal fatty acid composition, barrier function, and adherent microbiota in dairy cows.},
journal = {Journal of dairy science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3168/jds.2025-27870},
pmid = {41819177},
issn = {1525-3198},
abstract = {Fatty acids play a key role in the maintenance of intestinal health which strongly depends on the intestinal barrier function and symbiotic microbiota. Especially PUFA are able to affect both. In this context, beneficial effects of essential fatty acids (EFA) and CLA as special representatives of PUFA are also discussed. In turn, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of an abomasal supplementation of CLA, EFA, or a combination of both from wk 9 before to 9 wk after calving on indicators of intestinal permeability and the adherent intestinal microbiota in 38 dairy cows. Fat supplementations with coconut oil (CON, 76 g/d), EFA (78 and 4 g/d; linseed/ safflower oil), CLA (38 g/d Lutalin), or EFA+CLA were studied according to their effects on jejunal fatty acid composition as well as gene and protein expression of tight junction proteins and fatty acid binding proteins, free fatty acid receptors and further factors characterizing the intestinal barrier and immune function and the intestinal microbiota on d 63 after calving. Proportions of PUFA in jejunal tissue increased in the CLA and EFA+CLA groups compared with control cows. Proportions of n-3 fatty acids were increased by EFA. The EFA+CLA cows showed higher jejunal n-3 proportions compared with the other groups. Proportions of n-6 fatty acids were reduced in the EFA and EFA+CLA group compared with the CON and CLA group. The relative jejunal gene expression of fatty acid binding protein 2 (FABP2) was increased in CLA cows compared with cows without CLA supplementation. Mucin 2 (MUC2) gene expression tended to be higher in the CLA group compared with the CON group. Essential fatty acids increased the jejunal interleukin 1β (IL1β) and tended to increase tight junction protein 1 (ZO1) gene expression compared with cows without EFA supply. The EFA+CLA group increased the jejunal IL1β gene expression compared with CON cows. Protein expression of occludin tended to decrease in cows with CLA. Alpha diversity chaos richness estimator (Chao1) index was higher and abundance-based coverage estimator index tended to be higher in EFA cows compared with non-EFA cows. Chao1 and Fisher diversity index tended to be higher in the EFA group compared with the CON group. The relative abundance of Bacteroidota were reduced in EFA+CLA cows compared with CON animals. Proteobacteria, Bacteria_unclassified and Planctomycetota abundance tended to be reduced in EFA compared with CON cows. Proteobacteria were more abundant in the EFA+CLA compared with the EFA group. On class level, EFA cows showed a higher abundance of WCHB1-41 compared with EFA+CLA cows. On family level, the relative abundance of WCHB1-41_fa was higher in EFA cows compared with EFA+CLA cows. In summary, the abomasal fatty acid supplementation modulates the total intestinal fatty acid composition. There is evidence that CLA had slight effects on intestinal barrier function. A combination of EFA and CLA seemed to enable an increased colonization of microbes to the intestinal epithelium inducing a pro-inflammatory response.},
}

@article {pmid41818467,
year = {2026},
author = {Jogawat, A and Sanyasi, M and Menon, SH and Goyal, D and Nair, AM and Vadassery, J},
title = {Arabidopsis SWEET12 contributes to the regulation of sugar allocation and Defense responses during interaction with Serendipita indica.},
journal = {Plant & cell physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/pcp/pcag032},
pmid = {41818467},
issn = {1471-9053},
abstract = {Carbon availability is a central determinant of beneficial plant-fungal associations, and sugar transporters are key levers of this exchange. SWEETs (SUGARS WILL EVENTUALLY BE EXPORTED TRANSPORTER) are involved in transporting various kinds of sugars in plants; however, their functional roles in fungal symbiosis are not sufficiently explored. In this study, we investigate the functional relevance of Arabidopsis SWEETs in the interaction with endophytic fungi, Serendipita indica. Transcript profiling of SWEET genes in response to S. indica and its major elicitor, cellotriose, revealed early root-specific induction of SWEET12. Using a SWEET12 loss-of-function mutant, we demonstrate that the absence of SWEET12 disrupts the major outcomes of mutualism including growth promotion, balanced colonization, sugar allocation, and the accumulation of defense phytohormones (JA and SA). Transcriptome profiling further reveals that SWEET12 buffers whole-plant responses by coordinating genes linked to carbohydrate, nitrogen, and lipid metabolism, and by tuning defense signalling and nutrient transporter networks. Our findings indicate that SWEET12 is essential for balancing fungal colonization and host defense, thereby promoting plant growth. SWEET12 does so by acting as sugar valve that meters sugar release to the apoplast, enabling the fungus to access carbon while preserving host sugar homeostasis and immune competence.},
}

@article {pmid41814406,
year = {2026},
author = {Shi, Y and Liu, H and Yang, W and Zhai, J and Wang, H},
title = {Advances in single-cell and spatial omics for studying symbiotic nitrogen fixation: comparative cellular and evolutionary perspectives.},
journal = {Genome biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13059-026-04024-y},
pmid = {41814406},
issn = {1474-760X},
support = {2024ZD04079//Biological Breeding-National Science and Technology Major Project/ ; },
abstract = {Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics have revolutionized studies of symbiotic nitrogen fixation by resolving cellular heterogeneity, spatial gene-expression, and regulatory dynamics within root nodules. Recent investigations in model legumes have revealed conserved and species-specific programs controlling immune recognition, nodule development, and nitrogen-fixation metabolism. Integrating these datasets with single-cell epigenomic profiles, such as chromatin accessibility and three-dimensional genome architecture, provides new insight into epigenetic mechanisms that regulate key symbiotic genes. Comparative single-cell analyses across legumes and non-legumes elucidate phenotypic diversity and core regulatory networks of symbiotic nitrogen fixation at the cellular level, offering critical frameworks for engineering this process in non-legume crops.},
}

@article {pmid41813826,
year = {2026},
author = {Usländer, A and Haag, MV and Cheng, AP and Lederer, B and Khoo, JY and Dunker, F and Acosta, IF and Weiberg, A and Gutjahr, C},
title = {Cross-kingdom RNA interference promotes arbuscular mycorrhiza development.},
journal = {Nature plants},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41813826},
issn = {2055-0278},
support = {170483403//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; 433194101//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; 170483403//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; 170483403//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; 170483403//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; 170483403//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; 433194101//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; 433194101//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; 433194101//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; },
abstract = {Cross-kingdom RNA interference is an emerging concept in plant-pathogen interactions. Here we provide evidence that cross-kingdom RNA interference also occurs in a beneficial plant symbiosis called arbuscular mycorrhiza. The arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Rhizophagus irregularis transfers small RNAs into plant cells, promoting the colonization of host roots. This finding establishes inter-organismal RNA communication as a new regulatory mechanism of this ancient and widespread symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid41645062,
year = {2026},
author = {Horton, AL and Neighmond, H and Neighmond, A and Anderson, R and Lessard, M and Price, V and Leys, SP and Riesgo, A},
title = {Molecular and spatial integration of algal endosymbionts of the freshwater sponge, Ephydatia muelleri, throughout development in light and dark conditions.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41645062},
issn = {1471-2164},
support = {#9332//Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation/ ; #P20GM103423/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; #P20GM103423/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Animal-algal photosymbioses are a unique group of symbiotic relationships in which animals harbor photosynthetic algae within their cells and tissues. Both marine and freshwater sponges host algal endosymbionts. In previous work, we demonstrated that freshwater sponges can acquire these endosymbionts horizontally through algal infection and that potentially conserved evolutionary pathways may lead to the establishment of the endosymbioses including those involved in endocytosis, ion transport, vesicle-mediated transport, innate immunity, redox regulation, and metabolic processes.

RESULTS: Here, we show that algal symbionts can be transferred vertically from algal-bearing overwintering gemmules to adult sponges, and that their proliferation is enhanced by light. Sponges grown under light conditions harbored higher algal loads than those in the dark; however, algae were still able to proliferate and persist in sponges reared in the dark, occupying similar spatial locations to those grown in light. RNA-Seq analysis of algal-bearing sponges across developmental stages in light and dark conditions revealed putative genetic regulatory pathways involved in the transmission and establishment of the endosymbiosis, as well as those regulated by light. Differential expression analysis indicated that the endocytosis and SNARE pathways may regulate the internalization and transport of algae at the earliest stage of hatching under light conditions and later in development under dark conditions, potentially contributing to the recruitment of endosymbiotic algae. In sponges hatched in the dark, genes involved in vesicle acidification are regulated, alongside observable changes in the expression of genes in the pentose phosphate pathway – a key metabolic route involved in redox homeostasis and circadian rhythm regulation via NADPH metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS: E. muelleri serves as a versatile model system, supported by robust genomic and transcriptomic resources, for studying host-symbiont interactions. It offers a unique opportunity to investigate the molecular signaling and environmental factors that shape symbiosis in a system where the host can exist with or without algal endosymbionts, symbionts can be acquired either horizontally or vertically, and proliferation of the algae can occur with or without photosynthesis.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-026-12618-w.},
}

@article {pmid41813549,
year = {2026},
author = {Kou, L and Zuo, W and Freschet, GT and Zheng, J and Ma, N and Lambers, H and Li, S and Wang, H},
title = {Toward refining and contextualizing the root economics space.},
journal = {Trends in ecology & evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tree.2026.02.003},
pmid = {41813549},
issn = {1872-8383},
abstract = {The trait-based 'root economics space' (RES) offers a framework for understanding plant belowground strategies. It is structured along two axes: a 'fast-slow' conservation gradient and a 'do-it-yourself to outsourcing' collaboration gradient. However, growing evidence reveals divergent dominant trait combinations structuring the RES axes across plant types and environmental contexts, challenging the framework's generality. We propose an RES framework that refines and contextualizes these axes by incorporating functionally relevant root traits. It explicitly accounts for differences in symbiotic strategies among arbuscular, ectomycorrhizal, and ericoid associations, while also considering dual-mycorrhizal and nonmycorrhizal types, and integrating nutrient limitation patterns across ecosystems. We further define the spatial scales and organizational levels at which the RES framework is most applicable to guide its future development.},
}

@article {pmid41813028,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, YI and Zahn, FE and Chiang, YA and Yang, CK and Jiang, H and Gebauer, G},
title = {Mycorrhizal specificity of fully mycoheterotrophic Yoania in Taiwan and China and novel natural abundance stable isotope patterns.},
journal = {Plant biology (Stuttgart, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/plb.70195},
pmid = {41813028},
issn = {1438-8677},
support = {565/9-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; 107-2923-B-178-001-MY3//Taiwanese Ministry of Science and Technology/ ; //Yunnan Academy of Forestry and Grassland, People's Republic of China/ ; },
abstract = {Yoania is a rare achlorophyllous mycoheterotrophic orchid genus distributed across Japan, Taiwan, China, India and Vietnam, associating with wood-decomposing fungi. Studying mycoheterotrophic plants' mycorrhizal diversity is essential, as they depend entirely on fungi for carbon and nutrients. Here, we studied mycorrhizal interactions and nutrient strategies in three Yoania species from Taiwan and China. We hypothesize (H1) that Physisporinus associates with the Yoania species studied, and (H2) that when this symbiotic relationship alters nutritional patterns, this partnership will result in lower δ[13]C enrichment than in other fully mycoheterotrophic, wood-decaying-fungus-associated orchids. High-throughput DNA sequencing was used to investigate the mycorrhizal fungal communities of three Yoania species. In addition, natural stable isotopes (δ[13]C and δ[15]N) were measured in two species, while δ[2]H and δ[18]O were measured in one of them to further evaluate nutrient acquisition strategies. In Taiwan, Yoania japonica and Yoania amagiensis var. squamipes, and in China, Yoania prainii, all associate with a single Physisporinus taxonomic unit, distinct from the Physisporinus taxonomic units associated with Yoania species in Japan. As a white-rot fungus, Physisporinus may preferentially decompose relatively [13]C depleted lignin likely explaining the lower [13]C enrichment of Yoania in comparison with other fully mycoheterotrophic orchids associated with wood-decomposing fungi. Our combined molecular and isotopic evidence suggests that the mycoheterotrophic orchid genus Yoania employs a nutritional strategy that is most likely linked to the use of lignin by its white-root fungal partner in forest ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid41812752,
year = {2026},
author = {Feng, L and Zhang, K and Lun, X and Liu, Z},
title = {Resource Utilization and Microbial Community Evolution in Anaerobic Digestion Effluent Containing Heavy Metal Zn via Eco-remediation Technology Based on a PBR Algal-Bacterial Symbiosis System.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {124138},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2026.124138},
pmid = {41812752},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Anaerobic digestion effluent (ADE) containing heavy metal zinc (Zn) poses a severe, persistent threat to aquatic ecosystems, demanding efficient and sustainable ecological remediation technologies. Conventional physicochemical methods are costly and prone to secondary pollution, failing to restore the ecological functions of contaminated water bodies. Based on ecological engineering and water resource restoration principles, this study developed an Algae-assisted Sequencing Batch Photo-Bioreactor (A-SBPBR) - an algal-bacterial symbiotic system - for treating Zn-containing ADE, aiming to simultaneously achieve efficient pollutant removal, Zn risk mitigation, and resource recovery via microalgal biomass production, thereby providing a solution for ecological restoration and sustainable management of polluted water.The study investigated the removal efficiencies of soluble chemical oxygen demand (sCOD), total nitrogen (TN), ammonia nitrogen (AN), and total phosphorus (TP) in ADE, as well as microalgal physiological parameters. High-throughput sequencing was used to analyze the dynamic evolution of microbial community structure and evaluate its ecological functions, thus assessing the technology's restoration potential.Results showed that: (1) The A-SBPBR system exhibited excellent pollutant removal performance, with degradation rates of 71.96% for sCOD, 93.22% for TN, 81.80% for AN, and 93.31% for TP; effluent concentrations were reduced to 322.18 ± 42.65 mg/L, 2.8421 ± 0.27 mg/L, 6.0423 ± 0.59 mg/L, and 2.3418 mg/L respectively. (2) The algal-bacterial system significantly enhanced microalgal lipid accumulation: crude fat content increased to 6.45%, a 3.00% rise from the initial level, highlighting its resource recovery potential for nutrient reclamation from wastewater. (3) Microbial analysis at the order level revealed significant enrichment of Pseudomonadales in the later stage, while the potentially pathogenic Rickettsiales was suppressed to an extremely low abundance of 0.53%. These shifts confirm the system's potential in pathogen inhibition, water purification enhancement, and ecological balance maintenance.},
}

@article {pmid41811515,
year = {2026},
author = {Thiebaut, F and Urquiaga, MC and de Araújo, PM and de Carvalho Vivarini, A and Grativol, C},
title = {Small but big player: the important role of microRNAs in legume crops.},
journal = {Molecular genetics and genomics : MGG},
volume = {301},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41811515},
issn = {1617-4623},
mesh = {*MicroRNAs/genetics ; *Crops, Agricultural/genetics/growth & development ; *Fabaceae/genetics/growth & development ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; *RNA, Plant/genetics ; Symbiosis/genetics ; RNA Interference ; Gene Editing ; CRISPR-Cas Systems ; },
abstract = {Legumes are essential components of global cropping systems due to their nutritional value and contribution to sustainable agriculture. Among the regulatory molecules, small RNAs (sRNAs), particularly microRNAs (miRNAs), play crucial roles in plant development and in responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. miRNAs regulate genes involved in diverse developmental processes, including nodule formation, which is fundamental for the nitrogen-fixing symbiosis that characterizes legumes. Functional studies have demonstrated that miRNAs are key modulators of plant defense, contributing to resistance against pathogens and environmental challenges. Moreover, miRNAs also participate in cross-kingdom communication, such as plant-bacteria interactions, influencing symbiotic efficiency. Advances in molecular biology have enabled the manipulation of miRNAs and their targets for crop improvement. Current approaches include the design of artificial miRNAs (amiRNA), modulation of miRNA expression through miRNA-encoded peptides, genome editing of non-coding genes using CRISPR/Cas9, and the application of RNA interference (RNAi) technology. Together, these strategies highlight the potential of miRNA-based tools in plant biotechnology. A deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing miRNA-mediated gene silencing will provide powerful resources for optimizing legume productivity and resilience within sustainable agricultural systems.},
}

*MicroRNAs/genetics
*Crops, Agricultural/genetics/growth & development
*Fabaceae/genetics/growth & development
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
*RNA, Plant/genetics
Symbiosis/genetics
RNA Interference
Gene Editing
CRISPR-Cas Systems

@article {pmid41811444,
year = {2026},
author = {Kuwabara, JT and Beilinson, V and Hargadon, AC and Chen, GY and Hu, XM and Ladinsky, MS and Hackett, KT and Dillard, JP and Visick, KL and Ruby, EG and McFall-Ngai, M},
title = {SypC, a symbiont outer membrane vesicle protein, impacts the development of the squid-vibrio partnership.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {123},
number = {11},
pages = {e2524648123},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2524648123},
pmid = {41811444},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {R01 GM135254/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R37 AI050661/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R35 GM130355/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Decapodiformes/microbiology ; *Symbiosis/physiology ; *Aliivibrio fischeri/physiology/metabolism/genetics ; Biofilms/growth & development ; *Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; },
abstract = {Bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) and the cargo they carry are increasingly recognized as a means of communication between microbial symbionts and the cells of their host. However, few studies have focused on the biochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying OMV signaling during symbiosis onset and development. We show here that SypC, an OMV protein of the bioluminescent symbiont Vibrio fischeri, is taken up by cells of the squid host Euprymna scolopes where it assumes a new function, i.e., the facilitation of symbiont-induced light-organ morphogenesis. SypC is a Wza-like outer membrane protein found in host-associated Vibrionaceae and is essential for V. fischeri biofilm formation. Colonization or direct treatment with V. fischeri OMVs triggers host development, which was reduced or delayed if the host is instead exposed to a ∆sypC mutant or ∆sypC OMVs. RNA-seq analyses comparing light organs colonized by either the mutant or its parent revealed differential expression of host genes associated with immune responses and tissue morphogenesis. In immunocytochemical imaging, SypC-bearing OMVs were taken up by the host's macrophage-like cells near the light-organ crypts, revealing the mechanism by which SypC travels through tissue to trigger morphogenesis. Taken together, the data provide evidence that in addition to its role in biofilm formation and colonization, SypC has a second function promoting the induction of symbiotic-tissue development. These findings provide a critical piece of a puzzle whereby a rich array of host and symbiont molecules work in concert to orchestrate normal symbiont colonization and host development within the first hours to days of symbiosis.},
}

Animals
*Decapodiformes/microbiology
*Symbiosis/physiology
*Aliivibrio fischeri/physiology/metabolism/genetics
Biofilms/growth & development
*Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins/metabolism/genetics

@article {pmid41810571,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, W and Dong, R and Wu, J and Rahman, H and Xie, D and Li, Y and Zhang, Z and Guo, X and Cao, Y and Zhu, H},
title = {PR10 RNase activity drives immunity-mediated nodule cell death in Medicago littoralis.},
journal = {The Plant journal : for cell and molecular biology},
volume = {125},
number = {5},
pages = {e70783},
doi = {10.1111/tpj.70783},
pmid = {41810571},
issn = {1365-313X},
support = {2024YFA0918200//National Key R&D Program of China/ ; 32070273//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Root Nodules, Plant/immunology/cytology/genetics/enzymology/microbiology ; *Ribonucleases/metabolism/genetics ; *Plant Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Cell Death ; *Plant Immunity ; *Medicago/immunology/genetics/enzymology/microbiology/cytology ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Symbiosis ; },
abstract = {Establishment and maintenance of the legume-rhizobium symbiosis require a precise balance between host immune responses and symbiotic accommodation. In Medicago littoralis R108, mutation of NAD1 causes necrotic nodules accompanied by an overactivated immune response, indicating that tight immune regulation is essential for successful rhizobial colonization. Here, we identify members of the pathogenesis-related 10 (PR10) family as critical determinants of nodule function in M. littoralis. MltPR10 genes are transcriptionally upregulated in nad1-1 nodules. Strikingly, nad1-1 pr10c pr10d triple mutants produce nodules with almost normal morphology and restored nitrogenase activity compared with the necrotic nodules of nad1-1. MlPR10d exhibits robust ribonuclease activity against both plant and bacterial RNA, whereas the MlPR10d[Y150F] variant abolishes its RNase activity and fails to restore the necrotic phenotype when introduced into the nad1-1 pr10c pr10d-mutant plants. Together, these findings indicate that PR10 RNase activity directly influences nodule cell fate and may function as a terminal executioner of RNA degradation during immunity-overactivated nodule cell death. Our results reveal a mechanistic link between immune regulation and nodule functionality and suggest molecular targets for improving biological nitrogen fixation in legumes.},
}

*Root Nodules, Plant/immunology/cytology/genetics/enzymology/microbiology
*Ribonucleases/metabolism/genetics
*Plant Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Cell Death
*Plant Immunity
*Medicago/immunology/genetics/enzymology/microbiology/cytology
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Symbiosis

@article {pmid41808841,
year = {2026},
author = {Huo, T and Huang, X and Liao, J and Zhang, H and Hu, L and Xie, M},
title = {The bidirectional effects and mechanisms of the oral and gut microbiomes: a narrative review.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1697413},
pmid = {41808841},
issn = {1664-3224},
abstract = {Among the microbial ecosystems of the human body, the gut and oral microbiota constitute the two largest communities, collectively harboring thousands of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Under physiological conditions, these microbiotas maintain internal homeostasis and stability, thereby protecting the host against pathogenic colonization. However, when pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis translocate from the oral cavity to the gut, disruption of gut microbial homeostasis may occur, increasing the risk of disease development. Potential mechanisms underlying this association include the establishment of new symbiotic relationships, the disruption of the intestinal barrier, the activation or suppression of inflammatory cells-particularly the balance between T helper 17 (Th17) cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs)-and the induction of systemic inflammation. Conversely, gut microbiota dysbiosis, as observed in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or colorectal cancer, is also associated with alterations in the composition and diversity of the oral microbiota. Factors such as immune cell migration, malnutrition, and taste disturbances may contribute to oral microbial imbalance. In this review, we summarize the bidirectional influences on the composition and diversity of the oral and gut microbiomes and propose potential mechanisms underlying their interactions. A deeper understanding of these processes will enhance our knowledge of microbiota-host interactions and systemic health, and may shed light on the prevention and treatment of systemic diseases related to oral and gut microbiota dysbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid41808437,
year = {2026},
author = {de Beer, JC and Alayande, KA and Pirk, CWW and Adeleke, RA and Sole, CL},
title = {Dietary Specialisation Shapes Gut Bacterial Diversity in Dung Beetles: Insights From Coprophagy to Millipede Carnivory.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology reports},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {e70317},
doi = {10.1111/1758-2229.70317},
pmid = {41808437},
issn = {1758-2229},
support = {98696//National Research Foundation of South Africa/ ; SRUG220326856//National Research Foundation of South Africa/ ; //South Africa Sweden University Forum/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Coleoptera/microbiology/physiology/classification ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; *Diet ; Phylogeny ; *Arthropods/physiology ; Biodiversity ; Carnivory ; Coprophagia ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; },
abstract = {Dung beetles are ecosystem engineers, providing ecosystem services like nutrient cycling, waste degradation and parasite suppression. Their gut microbiome is essential for exploiting specialised diets, yet the eco-evolutionary factors driving microbial composition across diverse feeding strategies remain ambiguous. Here, we show that diet strongly influences gut bacterial composition across seven dung beetle species specialising in coprophagy, necrophagy, detritophagy, fungivory and carnivory. Most dietary specialisations grouped separately, though fungivores clustered with carrion and millipede feeders. The millipede-feeding species, Sceliages brittoni and S. hippias, hosted the most distinct and least diverse gut microbiomes. Taxonomically, differences were driven by distinct marker taxa, many of which are consistently isolated across taxonomic orders with similar diets. For example, the indicative bacterial species I. indica has been identified in various flesh-feeding insect taxa. Crucially, this pattern of shared bacterial communities suggests that diet is a dominant structuring factor which promotes community convergence regardless of host phylogeny. This study highlights the role of diet in shaping the dung beetle gut microbiome and provides the first characterisation of the gut microbiota in millipede-feeding dung beetles. Our findings underscore the critical role of diet, laying the foundation for functional studies into the eco-evolutionary significance of these host-microbe interactions.},
}

Animals
*Coleoptera/microbiology/physiology/classification
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
*Diet
Phylogeny
*Arthropods/physiology
Biodiversity
Carnivory
Coprophagia
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics

@article {pmid41807436,
year = {2026},
author = {Tedeschi, F and Quilbé, J and Fechete, LI and Vistisen Christiansen, SJ and Andersen, SU},
title = {RHD6LA regulates root hair responses to both symbionts and commensals.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41467-026-70504-1},
pmid = {41807436},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {07NNF19SA0059362//Novo Nordisk Fonden (Novo Nordisk Foundation)/ ; },
abstract = {While intracellular symbiosis with rhizobia relies on Nod factor signaling through the conserved common symbiosis signaling pathway (CSSP), it remains unclear how legumes simultaneously manage interactions with commensal soil microbes. Using single cell RNA-sequencing, we show that commensal soil bacteria induce a Nod factor-independent transcriptional response in specific root hairs. This response is similar to the rhizobium response in the CSSP-deficient cyclops mutant, which is unable to accommodate rhizobia in root hair infection threads. Both responses include the nodulation gene NODULATION SIGNALING PATHWAY 2 (NSP2) and a transcription factor, which we name ROOT HAIR DEFECTIVE 6 LIKE A (RHD6LA). We show that RHD6LA is required for facilitating infection thread formation in response to rhizobia and for preventing exaggerated root hair responses to commensal soil bacteria. The overlap between commensal and symbiotic signaling highlights the complexity of legume-microbe interactions at the root hair interface and suggests additional mechanisms for microbial discrimination in rhizobium-responsive root hairs.},
}

@article {pmid41806446,
year = {2026},
author = {Lo Giudice, A and Papale, M and Bertolino, M and Reboa, A and Rizzo, C},
title = {Diversity and ecology of the prokaryotic microbiome associated with marine sponges across Antarctica.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {1025},
number = {},
pages = {181655},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2026.181655},
pmid = {41806446},
issn = {1879-1026},
abstract = {Antarctic sponges host diverse and functionally relevant microbial communities that play central roles in the structure and resilience of polar benthic ecosystems. This review provides a focused analysis of the prokaryotic microbiomes associated with Antarctic sponges, with an emphasis on three ecologically significant species: Mycale (Oxymycale) acerata, Dendrilla antarctica, and Hymeniacidon torquata. Drawing from recent molecular studies, we examine the composition, predicted functional potential, and environmental responsiveness of these bacterial and archaeal communities. Comparative analyses with surrounding seawater and sediments reveal both overlaps and distinct host-specific microbial signatures, suggesting that sponge-associated microbiomes are shaped by selective pressures at the host and habitat levels. A conserved microbial core appears to coexist with more variable taxa influenced by host physiology and environmental gradients. We also discuss the impact of environmental stressors on microbiome structure and stability. Functional insights from metagenomic data highlight key microbial contributions to nutrient cycling, symbiotic lifestyles, secondary metabolite and vitamin production, quorum sensing, and the biodegradation of aromatic compounds. This review critically assesses current knowledge on Antarctic sponge-associated prokaryotic microbiomes, identifying recurrent taxonomic and functional patterns and evaluating evidence for core microbial functions across species and regions. We hypothesize that, despite taxonomic variability and geographical sampling bias, Antarctic sponge microbiomes share conserved functional traits shaped by host- and environment-driven selective pressures. Although foundational knowledge has expanded, particularly for shallow-water species, significant gaps persist-especially in underexplored habitats and in linking predicted functions to ecological dynamics. We conclude by outlining research priorities, including standardized protocols, broader spatial and temporal sampling, and multi-omics integration to better understand microbiome resilience under climate-driven change.},
}

@article {pmid41806308,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, K and He, Q and Lin, Z and Huang, S and Zhong, Z and Zhu, P and Gao, M and Zhao, L and Jin, H and Wu, G and Geoff, GM and Han, Q and Pang, R},
title = {Genome-Wide Association Study Reveals Insect Genetics and Microbial Symbiont Effects on Susceptibility of Diaphorina citri to the Citrus Greening Pathogen, Candidatus Liberibacter Asiaticus.},
journal = {Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e17056},
doi = {10.1002/advs.202517056},
pmid = {41806308},
issn = {2198-3844},
support = {32001903//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022ZDJS020//Guangdong Province Key Discipline Research Capacity Enhancement Project/ ; 2025A1515012591//Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangdong Province/ ; 2023KTSCX046//Guangdong Provincial Universities Characteristic Innovation Project/ ; 2024A04J4995//Guangzhou Science and Technology Plan Project/ ; },
abstract = {Insect-vectored pathogens pose a significant threat to global agriculture. The colonization efficiency of pathogens in vectors plays a central role in these pathosystems, yet studies of the factors that affect this aspect are limited. This study investigates the genetic and microbial symbiont factors influencing the susceptibility of Diaphorina citri to Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), the pathogen causing citrus greening disease (huanglongbing). Through a microbiome Genome Wide Association Study (mGWAS) based on 16S amplicon sequencing and genomic resequencing of 120 D. citri individuals from six populations, we identified 79 SNPs significantly associated with the relative abundance of CLas within insects. Additionally, some of these SNPs were also associated with the relative abundance of Candidatus Profftella armature, a key endosymbiont of D. citri. SNPs in the regulatory region of gene Dcitr04g11610.1 led to its overexpression in CLas-susceptible D. citri, and CLas infection further elevated its expression. Conversely, RNAi knockdown of Dcitr04g11610.1 reduced CLas infection rates and abundance, accompanied by increased abundance of Profftella. Phylogenetic analysis revealed Dcitr04g11610.1's high homology to Major Facilitator Superfamily-type transporter SLC18B1 proteins, suggesting a role in CLas polyamine utilization. These findings highlight the importance and potential interplay of insect genetics and symbiotic microbiota in insect-vectored plant pathogen systems.},
}

@article {pmid41805839,
year = {2026},
author = {Matarrita-Carranza, B and Weiss, B and Sandoval-Calderón, M and Koehler, S and Engl, T and Kaltenpoth, M},
title = {Defensive symbionts of European beewolves face competition from brood cell microbiota during vertical transmission.},
journal = {FEMS microbiology ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/femsec/fiag024},
pmid = {41805839},
issn = {1574-6941},
abstract = {Beewolf wasps rely on an ancient defensive symbiosis with Streptomyces bacteria that protect their larvae from fungal infection. Female beewolves apply the bacteria to the brood-cell ceiling, and larvae later transfer the symbionts onto the cocoon surface, where they produce antifungal metabolites. Here, we investigated the mechanism of symbiont transfer from the beewolf brood cell to the larval cocoon and characterized the microbial community dynamics across different beewolf life stages and during larval hibernation. Fluorescence in situ hybridization revealed that the symbionts are transiently taken up into the proximal midgut lumen and then regurgitated onto the cocoon during the spinning process. High-throughput sequencing showed that the bacterial community of beewolf feeding larvae resembles that of the honeybee prey, whereas that of adults and diapausing larvae is dominated by Wolbachia. Moreover, the cocoon bacterial community is initially dominated by the defensive Streptomyces philanthi symbiont, but when larvae excrete the gut content inside the cocoon, other bacterial taxa including Lactobacillus, Gilliamella and Bartonella shift the community composition toward dominance by Pseudomonadota. Our findings provide new insights into the transmission route of an ancient extracellular symbiont and its potential competition with other bacteria in this long-term defensive symbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid41805398,
year = {2026},
author = {Bouderka, F and López-García, P and Deschamps, P and Zhou, Y and Krupovic, M and Gutiérrez-Preciado, A and Ciobanu, M and Bertolino, P and David, G and Moreira, D and Jardillier, L},
title = {Parasitic connections: a patescibacterial epibiont, its methylotrophic gammaproteobacterial host, and their phages.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0002526},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.00025-26},
pmid = {41805398},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {Patescibacteriota form a very diverse and widely distributed phylum of small bacteria inferred to have an episymbiotic lifestyle. However, the prevalence of this lifestyle within the phylum and its host specificity remain poorly known due to the scarcity of cultured representatives. Here, we describe a complex system consisting of a patescibacterium, its gammaproteobacterial hosts, and their respective phages based on enrichment cultures and metagenomic data from two shallow, geographically close, freshwater ecosystems. The patescibacterium Strigamonas methylophilicida sp. nov. defines a new genus within the family Absconditicoccaceae. It grows as an epibiont on cells of methanotrophic species of the gammaproteobacterial family Methylophilaceae. Strigamonas cells grow tightly attached to the host, sometimes forming stacks that connect two host cells. Despite a surprisingly large genome (1.9 Mb) compared to many other Patescibacteriota, S. methylophilicida lacks many essential biosynthetic pathways, including the complete biosynthesis of phospholipids, amino acids, and nucleic acids, implying a dependence on the host to obtain these molecules. We also identified and assembled the complete genomes of one patescibacterial phage that might represent a new virus family within the class Caudoviricetes, and two Methylophilaceae phages predicted to have head-tailed and filamentous virions, respectively. The patesciphage uses a modified genetic code similar to that of its host and encodes four tRNA genes, including the suppressor tRNA gene for the UGA stop codon, which is reassigned to glycine in many Patescibacteriota. Our results confirm a prevalent episymbiotic lifestyle in Absconditicoccaceae and further suggest a clade-specific adaptation of this patescibacterial family for gammaproteobacterial hosts.IMPORTANCEPatescibacteriota are ultra-small bacteria with reduced genomes that rely on symbiotic interactions with other prokaryotes; however, their host specificity and associated viral parasites remain poorly characterized due to limited cultured representatives. By combining targeted cultivation with genomic and microscopy analyses, we reveal previously unrecognized host lineages and expand the known viral diversity infecting this major, but still poorly known, bacterial phylum. We describe Strigamonas methylophilicida, a new patescibacterial species of the family Absconditicoccaceae that grows as an epibiont on various methylotrophic Gammaproteobacteria. This expands the host range for this family, previously found to infect only photosynthetic partners. Using enrichment cultures and metagenomics, we retrieved complete genomes of novel phages infecting S. methylophilicida and its methylotrophic hosts, including one phage that uses a modified genetic code matching that of the patescibacterium, which shows a specific viral adaptation to infect Absconditicoccaceae hosts. Our findings reveal a previously unrecognized patescibacteria-methylotrophs-phages tripartite interaction in freshwater environments, highlight the adaptations of patescibacterial phages, and shed light on the complex ecology and evolution of host-parasite-phage dynamics in understudied bacterial lineages.},
}

@article {pmid41803708,
year = {2026},
author = {Arai, H and Bodelle, L and Mahéo, F and Cloteau, R and Denis, G and Koga, R and Kageyama, D and Sugio, A and Simon, JC},
title = {Linking genomic variation in Spiroplasma endosymbionts to male production and male-killing in the pea aphid.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12864-026-12706-x},
pmid = {41803708},
issn = {1471-2164},
support = {21J00895//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 23H02229//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; JPJ009237//Cabinet Office, Government of Japan/ ; 30001959/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; },
}

@article {pmid41803336,
year = {2026},
author = {Mandal, S and Aran, KR},
title = {Symbiotic in Alzheimer's disease: modulating the gut-brain axis for neuroimmune homeostasis and cognitive protection.},
journal = {Inflammopharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41803336},
issn = {1568-5608},
abstract = {Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder defined by progressive cognitive impairment, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation, synaptic dysfunction, mitochondrial impairment, and tau hyperphosphorylation. The gut-brain axis (GBA) is a crucial regulatory signaling cascade that links intestinal microbiome composition with both neural health and disease through the vagus nerve. Gut dysbiosis has increasingly been implicated in AD pathogenesis by exacerbating systemic and neuroinflammatory signaling, disrupting intestinal and blood-brain barrier (BBB) structural stability, and promoting microglial activation, thereby facilitating Aβ aggregation and neurodegeneration. Preclinical studies indicate that symbiotic interventions restore microbial balance and improve gut-brain communication, contributing to neuroprotective effects. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that symbiotics can restore synaptic plasticity and cognitive resilience by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, as exemplified by interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and by upregulating neurotrophic factors, particularly brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). These effects are associated with normalised glial reactivity, attenuation of oxidative stress, and improved mitochondrial bioenergetics, together contributing to enhanced synaptic function, reduced neuroinflammation, and preservation of cognitive performance. This review highlights a critical assessment of the treatment potential of symbiotic interventions in modulating the GBA in AD, emphasising mechanistic insights into neurodegenerative pathways and evaluating their capacity to mitigate symptoms and delay disease progression, as supported by current preclinical evidence.},
}

@article {pmid41803161,
year = {2026},
author = {Fang, L and Guo, J and Ning, Q and Luo, Y and Jian, J and Ning, J},
title = {High-Quality Genome Assemblies of Two Prototheca wickerhamii Strains.},
journal = {Scientific data},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41597-026-06916-x},
pmid = {41803161},
issn = {2052-4463},
abstract = {Prototheca wickerhamii is a non-photosynthetic microalgal species that has been implicated in opportunistic human infections. Understanding its genomic features is crucial for both medical applications and symbiosis research. We generated high-quality genome assemblies for two strains of Prototheca wickerhamii, Pw26 and PwS1, using PacBio HiFi reads. The assemblies were evaluated for completeness and accuracy using BUSCO analysis. The assembled genomes for Pw26 and PwS1 were 17.8 MB and 17.4 MB, respectively, with contig N50 values of 1.6 MB. The number of assembled contigs is closely related to the number of chromosomes. The GC content was 63.5% for both genomes. Comparative analysis showed high similarity in genome size and alignment, with Pw26 having slightly more protein-coding genes (46,394) than PwS1 (44,702). Repeat sequences accounted for 6.03% and 4.18% of the genomes in Pw26 and PwS1, respectively. These high-quality genome assemblies provide a valuable resource for comparative genomics and functional exploration of Prototheca wickerhamii. The detailed genomic characterization supports further studies on pathogenic mechanisms.},
}

@article {pmid41802887,
year = {2026},
author = {Glass, BH and Abraham, T and Siggers, T and Davies, SW and Gilmore, TD},
title = {NF-κB: A Diverse and Multi-Functional Transcription Factor in Holozoans.},
journal = {Molecular biology and evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/molbev/msag059},
pmid = {41802887},
issn = {1537-1719},
abstract = {Transcription factor nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and many upstream signaling components have been identified in a diversity of holozoan taxa, including unicellular holozoans (e.g., Filasterea and Choanoflagellata) and the metazoan phyla Porifera (sponges), Placozoa, and Cnidaria (e.g., jellyfishes, sea anemones, corals, and hydra). Herein, we review recent progress made towards characterizing the structure, regulation, activity, and biological functions of NF-κB proteins found in these taxa. We also provide an updated phylogenetic sampling of NF-κB orthologs highlighting their different domain configurations among holozoans, as well as a method for comparing the computationally predicted three-dimensional structures of NF-κB dimers and relating these structures to their amino acid similarities and DNA-binding specificities. This synthesis reveals new insights regarding the evolutionarily conserved and variable domain-dependent activities and regulation of holozoan NF-κBs. Further, we provide an overview of the roles of NF-κB in pathogen responses, stress responses, symbiosis, and development, with a focus on recent findings from sponges and cnidarians. This curation of a growing body of knowledge highlights both conserved and divergent roles of NF-κB in foundational biological processes. Finally, we suggest priorities for future research on the evolution of NF-κB structure and function. Overall, investigations of NF-κB in diverse holozoan taxa will continue to provide information about the origins of this important and pervasive transcriptional regulator, and will also contribute to an understanding of the responses of sentinel species to the modern-day stresses associated with changing environmental conditions and novel pathogen-based diseases.},
}

@article {pmid41800175,
year = {2026},
author = {Al-Zahrani, SS},
title = {Frontiers in fungal phosphatases: molecular diversity, regulatory mechanisms, analytical methodologies, ecological significance, and prospects for sustainable utilization.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1735288},
pmid = {41800175},
issn = {2296-4185},
abstract = {Phosphorus is an indispensable macronutrient essential for all forms of life, as it plays a central role in cellular energy metabolism, nucleic acid synthesis, and structural integrity. Since organisms can only absorb dissolved inorganic phosphate, the phosphatase enzyme is important in the process of converting organic phosphorus into forms that are bioavailable. Fungal phosphatases are a vastly diverse and heterogeneous functional and structural category that catalyzes the liberation of phosphates in a wide variety of organic compounds and facilitates the mobilization of phosphorus in the soil and symbiotic interactions. This review summarizes the existing information on fungal phosphatases, their classification, molecular regulation, methods of their analysis, ecological significance, and biotechnological use. Bibliometric analysis has been conducted using 3,944 publications published between 1944 and June-2025, and the analysis rate has shown an increase of 7.11% which indicates the rising relevance of the research. Phosphate-sensitive transcriptional networks (PHO/PHR pathways), nutrient signaling (TOR), MAPK cascades, and post-translational modifications control their activity. Analytical methods have either the traditional colorimetric assays or fluorometric and omics-based ones, such as transcriptomics and proteomics. These enzymes mediate organic phosphorus mineralization, symbiotic nutrient exchange in mycorrhizal systems, saprotrophic decomposition, and global phosphorus cycling, which are ecologically relevant. Its uses would be in biofertilizers, soil nutrient management, recovery of phosphorus in waste, industrial bioprocesses, and climate-smart agriculture. Nevertheless, a number of gaps exist in terms of the phosphatase diversity in non-model fungi, complexity of regulatory networks, and methodological sophistication. To promote sustainable phosphorus management, the combination of molecular, ecological and applied viewpoints is a requirement, especially due to the global exhaustion of phosphorus resources and the necessity of environmental sustainability.},
}

@article {pmid41800128,
year = {2026},
author = {Klinges, JG and Villoch Diaz-Mauriño, M and Wilder, RM and Erbes, MC and Karabelas, EC and Muller, EM and Krediet, CJ},
title = {A quick and reliable menthol-induced bleaching protocol for the Caribbean staghorn coral, Acropora cervicornis.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {e20888},
pmid = {41800128},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {Animals ; *Anthozoa/drug effects/physiology ; Symbiosis/drug effects ; *Menthol/pharmacology ; *Dinoflagellida/physiology/drug effects ; *Coral Bleaching ; Caribbean Region ; Coral Reefs ; Photosynthesis/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Corals and dinoflagellate algae form a unique mutualistic symbiosis that provides the energetic and structural foundation for shallow coral reef ecosystems. Despite the long success of this partnership in oligotrophic seas, coral reefs are in decline due to increasing threats from rising seawater temperatures and disease, both of which can lead to bleaching and mortality. In order to better understand the mechanisms that underpin this mutualism, it may be necessary to dismantle the coral-algal symbiosis. Previous studies have experimentally bleached corals using thermal stress, photosynthetic inhibitors (DCMU), and menthol. We compared lab-induced bleaching of staghorn coral Acropora cervicornis by menthol treatment to traditional thermal stress. The larger aim was to adapt existing bleaching protocols for this important coral species, providing a guide for future studies. Bleaching in corals treated with menthol or exposed to elevated temperature stress (31°C) was monitored by measuring photosynthetic activity determined by Fv/Fm using pulse-amplitude modulated (PAM) fluorescence and compared to untreated conspecifics. Corals were also monitored for symbiont density and overall health using the CoralWatch Coral Health Chart card throughout the experiment. We found that A. cervicornis bleached in response to both menthol treatment and thermal stress, but menthol treatment was more effective at reducing algal symbiont photosynthetic capacity (Fv/Fm) without negatively affecting the health of the coral. Our results indicate that menthol treatment at 0.38 mM rendered staghorn coral aposymbiotic within fourteen days without any visual or physiological damage to the coral. This study provides a simple and effective menthol-bleaching treatment protocol for future studies on staghorn coral.},
}

Animals
*Anthozoa/drug effects/physiology
Symbiosis/drug effects
*Menthol/pharmacology
*Dinoflagellida/physiology/drug effects
*Coral Bleaching
Caribbean Region
Coral Reefs
Photosynthesis/drug effects

@article {pmid41799286,
year = {2026},
author = {Fang, X and Guo, Y and Huang, J and Zhang, M},
title = {Polyamines as a Universal Language of Host-Microbiota Symbiosis.},
journal = {Research (Washington, D.C.)},
volume = {9},
number = {},
pages = {1184},
pmid = {41799286},
issn = {2639-5274},
abstract = {Polyamines are ancient metabolites that serve critical functions in maintaining epithelial integrity, regulating immune response, and supporting healthy aging. The gut microbiota actively synthesizes and converts polyamines, while host factors such as inflammation, barrier function, and nutritional status dynamically modulate this metabolic network. Disruption of this host-microbiota axis reduces polyamine availability, impairs barrier function, and exacerbates inflammation. In contrast, polyamines exert protective effects by promoting epithelial repair, modulating macrophage and T-cell responses, and enhancing autophagy-mediated tissue renewal and longevity. Recent advances in engineered probiotics, microbial small RNAs, and postbiotics further highlight the therapeutic potential of precisely modulating polyamine metabolism in clinical contexts such as inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic syndrome, and neurodegenerative conditions associated with aging.},
}

@article {pmid41798221,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Y and Du, Y and Alwutayd, KM and Islam, W and Zeng, F},
title = {Diversity and ecological roles of endophytic fungi in desert phreatophytes.},
journal = {3 Biotech},
volume = {16},
number = {4},
pages = {112},
pmid = {41798221},
issn = {2190-572X},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Fungal symbionts in plant roots and leaves drive ecosystem functionality by enhancing nutrient acquisition for plants and influencing plant biomass and productivity. Therefore, investigating variations in fungal communities across roots and leaves, as well as identifying the drivers of these variations, is crucial for understanding biological, abiotic factors, and microbial interactions. We utilized high-throughput Illumina HiSeq sequencing to characterize the structural and functional diversity of leaf and root endosphere (RE) fungal microbiota associated with Alhagi sparsifolia across three arid regions (Taklimakan [Cele], Gurbantünggüt [Mosuowan], and Kumtag [Turpan]) in northwest China's Xinjiang province. Our study found that the relative abundance of Ascomycota within the RE was much higher than that observed in the leaf endosphere (LE). Basidiomycota and Ascomycota were dominant in the RE. However, the niche width and multi-functionality of LE fungi were significantly lower than those of RE fungi. The number of edges, nodes, and the average degree of LE fungi were lower than those of RE across different regions and interannual variations. In Turpan, the edges, nodes, and average degree of LE fungi were higher compared to the other two sampling sites (Cele and Mosuowan), whereas RE fungi exhibited the opposite trend. Redundancy analysis and hierarchical partitioning results showed that precipitation, temperature, and root total phosphorus were the main common factors that significantly affected the variation in the composition of leaf and RE fungal community (P < 0.05). Interestingly, total potassium content in leaves, roots, and soil was found to correlate with the diversity of fungi in both the leaf and RE. This research enhances our comprehension of the ecological significance of endophytic fungi in desert plants and highlights the need for further research on the symbiotic interactions that underpin the survival and adaptation of plants in harsh environments.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-026-04743-w.},
}