Minicells, which are anucleate cells generated by irregular cell division, are emerging as promising drug delivery systems owing to advances in synthetic biology. However, their development is largely limited to a few model bacteria, highlighting the need to explore minicell platforms in alternative hosts. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum), a probiotic bacterium classified as Generally Recognized as Safe, is an ideal candidate for such exploration. Minicell-producing L. plantarum was engineered by deleting the putative minD gene via plasmid-mediated homologous recombination, which inactivates cell division to form spherical minicells. Anucleate cells were isolated through differential centrifugation and filtration, followed by additional drug treatment to completely eliminate progenitor cells. Microscopy and flow cytometry analyses of the purified sample confirmed the absence of progenitor cells by DAPI staining. This protocol effectively produces bacterial minicells from L. plantarum for use in various biotechnological applications, including therapeutic agent delivery.

CRISPR-Cas technologies have emerged as powerful and versatile tools in gene therapy. In addition to the widely used SpCas9 system, alternative platforms including modified amino acid sequences, size-optimized variants, and other Cas enzymes from diverse bacterial species have been developed to apply this technology in various genetic contexts. In addition, base editors and prime editors for precise gene editing, the Cas13 system targeting RNA, and CRISPRa/i systems have enabled diverse and adaptable approaches for genome and RNA editing, as well as for regulating gene expression. Typically, CRISPR-Cas components are transported to the target in the form of DNA, RNA, or ribonucleoprotein complexes using various delivery methods, such as electroporation, adeno-associated viruses, and lipid nanoparticles. To amplify therapeutic efficiency, continued developments in targeted delivery technologies are required, with increased safety and stability of therapeutic biomolecules. CRISPR-based therapeutics hold an inexhaustible potential for the treatment of many diseases, including rare congenital diseases, by making permanent corrections at the genomic DNA level. In this review, we present various CRISPR-based tools, their delivery systems, and clinical progress in the CRISPR-Cas technology, highlighting its innovative prospects for gene therapy.

Streptomyces are a crucial source of bioactive secondary metabolites with significant clinical applications. Recent studies of bacterial and metagenome-assembled genomes have revealed that Streptomyces harbors a substantial number of uncharacterized silent secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs). These BGCs represent a vast diversity of biosynthetic pathways for natural product synthesis, indicating significant untapped potential for discovering new metabolites. To exploit this potential, genome mining using comprehensive strategies that leverage extensive genomic databases can be conducted. By linking BGCs to their encoded products and integrating genetic manipulation techniques, researchers can greatly enhance the identification of new secondary metabolites with therapeutic relevance. In this context, we present a step-by-step guide for using the antiSMASH pipeline to identify secondary metabolite-coding BGCs within the complete genome of a novel Streptomyces strain. This protocol also outlines gene manipulation methods that can be applied to Streptomyces to activate cryptic clusters of interest and validate the functions of biosynthetic genes. By following these guidelines, researchers can pave the way for discovering and characterizing valuable natural products.

The increasing environmental concerns regarding conventional plastics have led to a growing demand for sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable plastics. Yeast cell factories, specifically Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Yarrowia lipolytica, have emerged as promising platforms for bioplastic production due to their scalability, robustness, and ease of manipulation. This review highlights synthetic biology approaches aimed at developing yeast cell factories to produce key biodegradable plastics, including polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT). We explore recent advancements in engineered yeast strains that utilize various synthetic biology strategies, such as the incorporation of new genetic elements at the gene, pathway, and cellular system levels. The combined efforts of metabolic engineering, protein engineering, and adaptive evolution have enhanced strain efficiency and maximized product yields. Additionally, this review addresses the importance of integrating computational tools and machine learning into the Design-Build-Test-Learn cycle for strain development. This integration aims to facilitate strain development while minimizing effort and maximizing performance. However, challenges remain in improving strain robustness and scaling up industrial production processes. By combining advanced synthetic biology techniques with computational approaches, yeast cell factories hold significant potential for the sustainable and scalable production of bioplastics, thus contributing to a greener bioeconomy.

16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing is the most widely used approach for characterizing microbial communities, yet analyzing such data requires navigating a fragmented landscape of bioinformatics tools with distinct installation requirements, parameter settings, and data formats. Here we present 16S-Pipeline, an open-source, web-based platform that provides a complete workflow from raw FASTQ files to publication-ready statistical analyses. 16S-Pipeline automatically detects sequencing type (paired-end, single-end, long-read), variable region, and sequencing platform (Illumina, PacBio HiFi, Nanopore), then performs quality filtering, primer trimming, amplicon sequence variant (ASV) inference via DADA2, taxonomy assignment against SILVA v138.1, phylogenetic tree construction, and optional functional prediction via PICRUSt2. Downstream analyses include alpha and beta diversity, taxonomic composition visualization, differential abundance testing using five complementary methods (ALDEx2, DESeq2, ANCOM-BC2, LinDA, MaAsLin2) with consensus reporting, and KEGG pathway mapping. Built-in NCBI SRA integration enables downloading public datasets for re-analysis and generates submission metadata spreadsheets for data deposition. The interactive web interface built on FastAPI and Plotly Dash enables researchers to perform complex microbiome analyses without command-line expertise. 16S-Pipeline is freely available at https://github.com/tatsu1207/16S-Pipeline under the MIT License.

Two Gram-stain-positive, facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped, and non-motile lactic acid bacterial strains, designated as strains CBA3605^T and CBA3606^T, were isolated from kimchi, a traditional Korean fermented food. Both strains were oxidase- and catalase-negative, non-spore-forming, non-hemolytic, and non-gas-producing. Optimal growth conditions for the two strains were observed at 30°C, pH 5.0, and 0% NaCl. The two genomes were composed of a circular chromosome and three plasmids and the DNA G + C content of 43.0%, respectively. Strains CBA3605^T and CBA3606^T were most closely related to Lactiplantibacillus (Lp.) pingfangensis 382-1^T with 16S rRNA sequence similarity of 99.4% and 99.1%, respectively. However, the orthologous average nucleotide identities between CBA3605^T and CBA3606^T were 91.7%, and those with strain 382-1^T were 76.9% and 76.5%, respectively. Digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between CBA3605^T and CBA3606^T were 45.0%, and those with strain 382-1^T were 21.4% and 21.0%, respectively. The major fatty acids detected in both strains included C_16:0, C_18:1 ω9c, and summed features 7 (C_19:1 ω7c, C_19:1 ω6c, C_19:0 cyclo ω10c, and/or C_19:0 ω6c). The peptidoglycan of both strains CBA3605^T and CBA3606^T contained meso-diaminopimelic acid and was classified as A4α type (L-Lys–D-Asp). In polar lipid analyses, only strain CBA3605^T contained aminophosphoglycolipid, which was absent in CBA3606^T, although both strains harbored same major polar lipids (diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, and phosphatidylethanolamine). Based on phenotypic, phylogenetic, genomic, biochemical, and chemotaxonomic analyses, strains CBA3605^T and CBA3606^T represent two novel species of the genus Lactiplantibacillus, for which the names Lactiplantibacillus koreensis sp. nov. and Lactiplantibacillus kimchii sp. nov. are proposed, with CBA3605^T (= KACC 81073BP^T = JCM 37965^T), and CBA3606^T (= KACC 81074BP^T = JCM 37966^T) as the type strains.

Protein solubility is a critical factor in the production of recombinant proteins, which are widely used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and biotechnology. Predicting protein solubility remains a challenging task due to the complexity of protein structures and the multitude of factors influencing solubility. Recent advances in computational methods, particularly those based on machine learning, have provided powerful tools for predicting protein solubility, thereby reducing the need for extensive experimental trials. This review provides an overview of current computational approaches to predict protein solubility. We discuss the datasets, features, and algorithms employed in these models. The review aims to bridge the gap between computational predictions and experimental validations, fostering the development of more accurate and reliable solubility prediction models that can significantly enhance recombinant protein production.

Precise and tunable gene expression is crucial for various biotechnological applications, including protein overexpression, fine-tuned metabolic pathway engineering, and dynamic gene regulation. Untranslated regions (UTRs) of mRNAs have emerged as key regulatory elements that modulate transcription and translation. In this review, we explore recent advances in UTR engineering strategies for bacterial gene expression optimization. We discuss approaches for enhancing protein expression through AU-rich elements, RG4 structures, and synthetic dual UTRs, as well as ProQC systems that improve translation fidelity. Additionally, we examine strategies for fine-tuning gene expression using UTR libraries and synthetic terminators that balance metabolic flux. Finally, we highlight riboswitches and toehold switches, which enable dynamic gene regulation in response to environmental or metabolic cues. The integration of these UTR-based regulatory tools provides a versatile and modular framework for optimizing bacterial gene expression, enhancing metabolic engineering, and advancing synthetic biology applications.

The escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance has renewed global interest in peptide-based antibiotics as adaptable and effective alternatives to conventional small molecules. Peptides possess diverse mechanisms of action, high target specificity, and structural flexibility, which collectively limit the emergence of resistance. This review outlines recent advances spanning the discovery, optimization, and application of peptide antibiotics, from their biological origins and structural classifications to emerging strategies involving artificial intelligence, synthetic biology, and modern delivery technologies. Peptide antibiotics can be categorized by origin as natural, semi-synthetic, or fully synthetic, and further organized by structural class such as α-helical, β-sheet, cyclic, and extended forms. They are also grouped by function into membrane-targeted and non-membrane-targeted types. These classification schemes are not only descriptive but also critical for understanding the therapeutic potential of peptides, as each category presents distinct advantages and engineering challenges that influence stability, specificity, and overall clinical performance. Advances in artificial intelligence, synthetic biology, and continuous manufacturing are reshaping how peptide drugs are designed and produced, while innovations in drug delivery systems are addressing critical issues of stability and bioavailability. Together, these developments are laying the foundation for a new generation of peptide-based therapeutics capable of meeting the evolving challenges of antimicrobial resistance.

Bladder cancer is the most common malignancy of the urinary tract and is a major health burden globally. Recent advances in microbiome research have revealed that the urinary tract harbors a resident microbial community, overturning the long-held belief in its sterility. Increasing evidence suggests that microbial dysbiosis and microbially derived metabolites contribute to bladder cancer carcinogenesis, progression, and therapeutic responses. Distinct microbial signatures have been observed in bladder cancer patients, with notable differences across disease stages and between primary and recurrent cases. Mechanistic studies have demonstrated that microbe-associated metabolites and toxins can drive DNA damage, chronic inflammation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. In addition, biofilm formation allows bacteria to evade immune responses and promotes persistent inflammation, creating a tumor-permissive niche. Beyond pathogenesis, microbial activity also influences therapeutic outcomes; for instance, some microbial pathways can inactivate frontline chemotherapy, while others generate metabolites with anti-tumor properties. Collectively, these patterns define a microbiota–metabolite–immunity axis, presenting opportunities for precision oncology. Targeting microbial pathways, profiling urinary microbiota, and harnessing beneficial metabolites offer promising advancements in biomarker discovery, prognostic refinement, and the development of novel therapeutic strategies for bladder cancer.

Dengue, caused by four serotypes of dengue viruses (DENV-1 to DENV-4), is the most prevalent and widely mosquito-borne viral disease affecting humans. Dengue virus (DENV) infection has been reported in over 100 countries, and approximately half of the world's population is now at risk. The paucity of universally licensed DENV vaccines highlights the urgent need to address this public health concern. Action and attention to antibody-dependent enhancement increase the difficulty of vaccine development. With the worsening dengue fever epidemic, Dengvaxia^® (CYD-TDV) and Qdenga^® (TAK-003) have been approved for use in specific populations in affected areas. However, these vaccines do not provide a balanced immune response to all four DENV serotypes and the vaccination cannot cover all populations. There is still a need to develop a safe, broad-spectrum, and effective vaccine to address the increasing number of dengue cases worldwide. This review provides an overview of the existing DENV vaccines, as well as potential candidates for future studies on DENV vaccine development, and discusses the challenges and possible solutions in the field.

The increase of sequence data in public nucleotide databases has made DNA sequence-based identification an indispensable tool for fungal identification. However, the large proportion of mislabeled sequence data in public databases leads to frequent misidentifications. Inaccurate identification is causing severe problems, especially for industrial and clinical fungi, and edible mushrooms. Existing species identification pipelines require separate validation of a dataset obtained from public databases containing mislabeled taxonomic identifications. To address this issue, we developed FunVIP, a fully automated phylogeny-based fungal validation and identification pipeline (https://github.com/Changwanseo/FunVIP). FunVIP employs phylogeny-based identification with validation, where the result is achievable only with a query, database, and a single command. FunVIP command comprises nine steps within a workflow: input management, sequence-set organization, alignment, trimming, concatenation, model selection, tree inference, tree interpretation, and report generation. Users may acquire identification results, phylogenetic tree evidence, and reports of conflicts and issues detected in multiple checkpoints during the analysis. The conflicting sample validation performance of FunVIP was demonstrated by re-iterating the manual revision of a fungal genus with a database with mislabeled sequences, Fuscoporia. We also compared the identification performance of FunVIP with BLAST and q2-feature-classifier with two mass double-revised fungal datasets, Sanghuangporus and Aspergillus section Terrei. Therefore, with its automatic validation ability and high identification performance, FunVIP proves to be a highly promising tool for achieving easy and accurate fungal identification.

Denitrification and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA) were thought to be carried-out by anaerobic bacteria constrained to anoxic conditions as they use nitrate (NO₃^-) as a terminal electron acceptor instead of molecular O₂. Three soil bacilli, Neobacillus spp. strains PS2-9 and PS3-12 and Bacillus salipaludis PS3-36, were isolated from rice paddy field soil in Korea. The bacterial strains were selected as possible candidates performing aerobic denitrification and DNRA as they were observed to reduce NO₃^- and produce extracellular NH₄⁺ regardless of oxygen presence at the initial screening. Whole genome sequencing revealed that these strains possessed all the denitrification and DNRA functional genes in their genomes, including the nirK, nosZ, nirB, and nrfA genes, which were simultaneously cotranscribed under aerobic condition. The ratio between the assimilatory and dissimilatory NO₃^- reduction pathways depended on the availability of a nitrogen source for cell growth, other than NO₃^-. Based on the phenotypic and transcriptional analyses of the NO₃^- reductions, all three of the facultative anaerobic strains reduced NO₃^- likely in both assimilatory and dissimilatory pathways under both aerobic and anoxic conditions. To our knowledge, this is the first report that describes coexistence of NO₃^- assimilation, denitrification, and DNRA in a Bacillus or Neobacillus strain under aerobic condition. These strains may play a pivotal role in the soil nitrogen cycle.

This review explores current advancements in microbiome functional analysis enabled by next-generation sequencing technologies, which have transformed our understanding of microbial communities from mere taxonomic composition to their functional potential. We examine approaches that move beyond species identification to characterize microbial activities, interactions, and their roles in host health and disease. Genome-scale metabolic models allow for in-depth simulations of metabolic networks, enabling researchers to predict microbial metabolism, growth, and interspecies interactions in diverse environments. Additionally, computational methods for predicting metabolite profiles offer indirect insights into microbial metabolic outputs, which is crucial for identifying biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. Functional pathway analysis tools further reveal microbial contributions to metabolic pathways, highlighting alterations in response to environmental changes and disease states. Together, these methods offer a powerful framework for understanding the complex metabolic interactions within microbial communities and their impact on host physiology. While significant progress has been made, challenges remain in the accuracy of predictive models and the completeness of reference databases, which limit the applicability of these methods in under-characterized ecosystems. The integration of these computational tools with multi-omic data holds promise for personalized approaches in precision medicine, allowing for targeted interventions that modulate the microbiome to improve health outcomes. This review highlights recent advances in microbiome functional analysis, providing a roadmap for future research and translational applications in human health and environmental microbiology.

The escalating antibiotic resistance crisis poses a significant challenge to global public health, threatening the efficacy of current treatments and driving the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens. Among the various factors associated with bacterial antibiotic resistance, small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) have emerged as pivotal post-transcriptional regulators which orchestrate bacterial adaptation to antibiotic pressure via diverse mechanisms. This review consolidates the current knowledge on sRNA-mediated mechanisms, focusing on drug uptake, drug efflux systems, lipopolysaccharides, cell wall modification, biofilm formation, and mutagenesis. Recent advances in transcriptomics and functional analyses have revealed novel sRNAs and their regulatory networks, expanding our understanding of resistance mechanisms. These findings highlight the potential of targeting sRNA-mediated pathways as an innovative therapeutic strategy to combat antibiotic resistance, and offer promising avenues for managing challenging bacterial infections.

Triterpenoids are natural products widely found in the plant kingdom and have various pharmacological effects such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-tumour. However, the content of triterpenoids in medicinal plants is low, and it is difficult to purify and isolate them due to their complex structure. The efficient production of some triterpenoids in chassis organisms has been achieved by constructing a heterologous triterpenoid synthesis pathway in engineered strains such as yeast, modifying the key enzymes in the pathway, and adjusting the metabolism of yeast. Modification of key enzymes in the synthetic pathway is currently an effective strategy to enhance the heterologous synthesis of triterpenoids. This paper reviews the current research progress on the modification of key enzymes downstream in the synthetic pathway and the design of key enzymes around them to enhance triterpenoid production in five main areas: 1) increasing the supply of triterpenoid precursors; 2) inhibition of the natural sterol pathway; 3) fusion expression of related enzymes; 4) compartmentalisation of the metabolic pathway; and 5) tapping and enhancing the triterpenoid efflux pump. Finally, recent advances and applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in enzyme engineering and pathway design for triterpenoid biosynthesis are highlighted. Challenges and perspectives for further increasing the yield of triterpenoid synthesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae are presented.

The global spread of COVID-19 has underscored the urgent need for advanced tools to study emerging coronaviruses. Reverse genetics systems have become indispensable for dissecting viral gene functions, developing live-attenuated vaccine candidates, and identifying antiviral targets. In this study, we describe a robust and efficient reverse genetics platform for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The system is based on the assembly of a full-length infectious cDNA clone from seven overlapping fragments, each flanked by homologous sequences to facilitate seamless assembly using the Gibson assembly method. Individual cloning of each fragment into plasmids enables modular manipulation of the viral genome, allowing rapid site-directed mutagenesis by fragment exchange. Infectious recombinant virus was successfully recovered from the assembled cDNA, exhibiting uniform plaque morphology and genetic homogeneity compared to clinical isolates. Additionally, fluorescent reporter viruses were generated to enable real-time visualization of infection, and the effects of different mammalian promoters on viral rescue were evaluated. This reverse genetics platform enables efficient generation and manipulation of recombinant SARS-CoV-2, providing a valuable resource for virological research and the development of preventive and therapeutic antiviral measures.

Existing microbial engineering strategies—encompassing metabolic engineering, systems biology, and systems metabolic engineering—have significantly enhanced the potential of microbial cell factories as sustainable alternatives to the petrochemical industry by optimizing metabolic pathways. Recently, systems metabolic engineering, which integrates tools from synthetic biology, enzyme engineering, omics technology, and evolutionary engineering, has been successfully developed. By leveraging modern engineering strategies within the Design-Build-Test-Learn (DBTL) cycle framework, these advancements have revolutionized the biosynthesis of valuable compounds. This review highlights recent progress in the metabolic engineering of Corynebacterium glutamicum, a versatile microbial platform, achieved through various approaches from traditional metabolic engineering to advanced systems metabolic engineering, all within the DBTL cycle. A particular focus is placed C5 platform chemicals derived from L-lysine, one of the key amino acid production pathways of C. glutamicum. The development of DBTL cycle-based metabolic engineering strategies for this process is discussed.

Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) technologies have emerged as powerful tools for precise genome editing, leading to a revolution in genetic research and biotechnology across diverse organisms including microalgae. Since the 1950s, microalgal production has evolved from initial cultivation under controlled conditions to advanced metabolic engineering to meet industrial demands. However, effective genetic modification in microalgae has faced significant challenges, including issues with transformation efficiency, limited target selection, and genetic differences between species, as interspecies genetic variation limits the use of genetic tools from one species to another. This review summarized recent advancements in CRISPR systems applied to microalgae, with a focus on improving gene editing precision and efficiency, while addressing organism-specific challenges. We also discuss notable successes in utilizing the class 2 CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins, including Cas9 and Cas12a, as well as emerging CRISPR-based approaches tailored to overcome microalgal cellular barriers. Additionally, we propose future perspectives for utilizing CRISPR/Cas strategies in microalgal biotechnology.

Microbial biosynthesis using yeast species offers numerous advantages to produce industrially relevant biofuels and biochemicals. Conventional metabolic engineering approaches in yeast focus on biosynthetic pathways in the cytoplasm, but these approaches are disturbed by various undesired factors including metabolic crosstalk, competing pathways and insufficient precursors. Given that eukaryotic cells contain subcellular organelles with distinct physicochemical properties, an emerging strategy to overcome cytosolic pathway engineering bottlenecks is through repurposing these organelles as specialized microbial cell factories for enhanced production of valuable chemicals. Here, we review recent progress and significant outcomes of harnessing organelle engineering for biofuels and biochemicals production in both conventional and non-conventional yeasts. We highlight key engineering strategies for the compartmentalization of biosynthetic pathways within specific organelles such as mitochondria, peroxisomes, and endoplasmic reticulum; involved in engineering of signal peptide, cofactor and energy enhancement, organelle biogenesis and dual subcellular engineering. Finally, we discuss the potential and challenges of organelle engineering for future studies and propose an automated pipeline to fully exploit this approach.

Prebiotics are indigestible dietary components that improve host health by stimulating the growth and metabolic activity of beneficial intestinal microbes. The whole grains are rich in non-digestible carbohydrates, which may confer prebiotic potential. Among them, millet and quinoa have gained attention as dietary alternatives due to the growing popularity of gluten-free diets. In this study, we examined the effects of proso millet and quinoa on the human gut microbiota using an in vitro fecal incubation model. Both grains altered alpha diversity metrics, including microbial richness, evenness, and phylogenetic diversity. Beta diversity analysis showed that the proso millet and quinoa treatment groups exhibited distinct clustering patterns compared to the control, highlighting their impact on microbial community structure. Taxonomic analysis showed an increase in beneficial genera, including Bifidobacterium, and a decrease in taxa such as Enterobacteriaceae and Flavonifractor. To assess metabolic changes associated with microbial fermentation, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) intensities were measured. The intensities of acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid were significantly higher in the proso millet- and quinoa-treated groups compared to the control group. Spearman correlation analysis showed that the abundances of Bifidobacterium and Blautia were significantly positively associated with SCFA intensities. Furthermore, predicted functional pathway analysis identified enrichment of carbohydrate-related pathways in proso millet and quinoa treatments. Quinoa supplementation led to a broader enhancement of metabolic pathways, including glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, starch and sucrose metabolism, and pentose phosphate pathways, whereas proso millet enriched galactose metabolism, and starch and sucrose metabolism. These findings suggest that proso millet and quinoa influence gut microbial diversity, composition, and function.

The widespread use of antibiotics in aquaculture has led to the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens and environmental concerns, highlighting the need for sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives. In this study, we isolated and characterized three novel bacteriophages from aquaculture effluents in Korean shrimp farms that target the key Vibrio pathogens, Vibrio harveyi, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Bacteriophages were isolated through environmental enrichment and serial purification using double-layer agar assays. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the phages infecting V. harveyi, designated as vB_VhaS-MS01 and vB_VhaS-MS03, exhibited typical Siphoviridae morphology with long contractile tails and icosahedral heads, whereas the phage isolated from V. parahaemolyticus (vB_VpaP-MS02) displayed Podoviridae characteristics with an icosahedral head and short tail.

Whole-genome sequencing produced complete, circularized genomes of 81,710 bp for vB_VhaS-MS01, 81,874 bp for vB_VhaS-MS03, and 76,865 bp for vB_VpaP-MS02, each showing a modular genome organization typical of Caudoviricetes. Genomic and phylogenetic analyses based on the terminase large subunit gene revealed that although vB_VhaS-MS01 and vB_VhaS-MS03 were closely related, vB_VpaP-MS02 exhibited a distinct genomic architecture that reflects its unique morphology and host specificity. Collectively, these comparative analyses demonstrated that all three phages possess genetic sequences markedly different from those of previously reported bacteriophages, thereby establishing their novelty. One-step growth and multiplicity of infection (MOI) experiments demonstrated significant differences in replication kinetics, such as burst size and lytic efficiency, among the phages, with vB_VhaS-MS03 maintaining the most effective bacterial control, even at an MOI of 0.01. Additionally, host range assays showed that vB_VhaS-MS03 possessed a broader spectrum of activity, supporting its potential use as a stand-alone agent or key component of phage cocktails. These findings highlight the potential of region-specific phage therapy as a targeted and sustainable alternative to antibiotics for controlling Vibrio infections in aquaculture.

Recent advances in sequencing technologies, particularly long-read platforms, have substantially improved contiguity of bacterial genome assemblies and enabled the routine generation of near-complete or circular genomes. However, achieving a contiguous assembly does not necessarily guarantee accuracy. Assembly errors, including structural misassemblies, collapsed repeats, incorrect circularization, plasmid reconstruction errors, and nucleotide-level inaccuracies, remain prevalent and may lead to misleading biological interpretations if not properly identified. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of bacterial genome assembly from a validation-centered perspective and examine the underlying causes of draft genome formation and assembly uncertainty, highlighting the roles of repetitive genomic structures, platform-specific error profiles, and algorithmic limitations. We further emphasize that the central challenge in contemporary bacterial genomics is no longer simply to maximize assembly contiguity, but to determine whether apparently complete genomes are truly correct and sufficiently reliable for their intended downstream applications. We propose a practical decision-making framework that links sequencing strategy, assembly workflow, polishing, and validation rigor, and introduce a tiered confidence classification to guide the interpretation of genome assembly reliability. As bacterial genome sequencing becomes increasingly routine and large-scale, future efforts should prioritize accuracy, reproducibility, transparent reporting, and evidence-supported validation over completeness alone.

Protein quality control systems are increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of bacterial survival and antibiotic tolerance. Conventional antibiotics predominantly target nucleic acids, protein synthesis, or cell wall synthesis, yet bacterial adaptation and resistance emergence remain major challenges. Targeting the bacterial protein quality control machineries including molecular chaperones and proteases offers a promising strategy to overcome these limitations. Recent advances include small molecules and adaptor/degron mimetics that modulate the activities of chaperones and proteases, aggregation-prone peptides (APPs) that induce proteotoxic stress, and bacterial PROTAC (BacPROTAC) strategies that redirect endogenous proteases. Notably, persister and viable-but-non-culturable (VBNC) cells, which tolerate conventional antibiotics, remain susceptible to proteostasis-targeted approaches, thereby enabling killing in both actively dividing and dormant populations. Furthermore, synergistic strategies combining chaperone inhibition or protease activation with conventional antibiotics enhance bactericidal efficacy, suggesting a potential avenue to mitigate antimicrobial resistance. This review summarizes the mechanistic basis, recent developments, and translational potential of proteostasis-centered antibacterial strategies.

Ribosomes are essential macromolecular machines that facilitate protein synthesis and have long been recognized as effective targets for antimicrobial agents. While structural differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes form the basis for selective antibiotics against bacteria, similar approaches for developing antifungal agents targeting ribosomes have remained limited due to the high sequence and structural conservation with human ribosomes. However, emerging insights into ribosome homeostasis, including ribosome biogenesis, turnover, and hibernation, have uncovered a set of ribosome-associated proteins whose function is critical yet display greater sequence divergence from their human counterparts. These observations suggest that these regulatory components may represent viable antifungal targets by disrupting fungal proteostasis. The present review aims to explore this developing concept by examining ribosome-associated factors and considering whether short ribosomal protein-derived peptides may eventually serve as druggable molecules for selectively modulating these pathways in fungal pathogens.

Bacteria-free reverse genetics techniques are crucial for the efficient generation of recombinant viruses, bypassing the need for labor-intensive bacterial cloning. These methods are particularly relevant for studying the pathogenesis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of COVID-19. This study compared the efficiency of three bacteria-free approaches—circular polymerase extension reaction (CPER) with and without nick sealing and infectious sub-genomic amplicons (ISA)—to bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC)-based technology for rescuing SARS-CoV-2. Significant differences in viral titers following transfection were observed between methods. CPER with nick sealing generated virus titers comparable to those of the BAC-based method and 10 times higher than those of the standard CPER. In contrast, ISA demonstrated extremely low efficiency, as cytopathic effects were detected only after two passages. All rescued viruses exhibited replication kinetics consistent with those of the original strain, with no significant deviation in replication capacity. Furthermore, the utility of CPER and ISA in genetically modifying SARS-CoV-2 was demonstrated by successfully inserting the gene encoding green fluorescent protein into the genome. Overall, this study underscores the potential of bacteria-free methods, such as CPER and ISA, in advancing SARS-CoV-2 research while highlighting their significant differences in efficiency.

The innate immune system relies on innate immune sensors, such as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), to detect pathogens and initiate immune responses, crucial for controlling infections but also implicated in inflammatory diseases. These innate immune sensors, including Toll-like receptors (TLRs), nod-like receptors (NLRs), RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs), absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2), and Z-DNA binding protein 1 (ZBP1) trigger signaling pathways that produce cytokines, modulating inflammation and cell death. Traditional therapies focus on directly targeting pathogens; however, host-targeting therapeutic strategies have emerged as innovative approaches to modulate innate immune sensor activity. These strategies aim to fine-tune the immune response, either enhancing antiviral defenses or mitigating hyperinflammation to prevent tissue damage. This review explores innate immune sensor-based therapeutic approaches, including inhibitors, agonists, and antagonists, that enhance antiviral defense or suppress harmful inflammation, highlighting innate immune sensors as promising targets in infectious and inflammatory disease treatment.

The global rise in obesity and its associated metabolic complications underscores the urgent need for safe and effective interventions. This study investigated the anti-obesity efficacy of a probiotic mixture containing Bifidobacterium breve BR3 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP3 in C57BL/6 mice with high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity. After obesity was established by feeding a 60% kcal HFD, the probiotic mixture was administered orally for 4 weeks. Compared with the control group, mice receiving the L. plantarum LP3 and B. breve BR3 mixture exhibited significant reductions in body weight and total fat mass, as assessed by Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) and Echo Magnetic Resonance Imaging (EchoMRI). The probiotic treatment also lowered serum Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), and glucose levels, and attenuated lipid accumulation in both hepatic and epididymal adipose tissues. Transcriptomic profiling revealed upregulation of lipolytic genes (Sirt1, Pparα) and downregulation of lipogenic genes (Srebp1c, Fas), suggesting that the probiotic mixture promotes lipid catabolism while suppressing lipid synthesis. Additionally, serum adipokine levels were favorably modulated, indicating improved metabolic homeostasis. Gut microbiota analysis demonstrated an increased relative abundance of beneficial genera, including Akkermansia and Bacteroides, highlighting a microbiome-mediated contribution to the observed metabolic benefits. Overall, our findings indicate that the combined administration of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP3 and Bifidobacterium breve BR3 exerts multi-faceted anti-obesity effects by enhancing lipolysis, regulating lipid metabolism, and restoring a healthy gut microbial balance. This probiotic mixture represents a promising therapeutic approach for managing obesity and related metabolic disorders.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses an ongoing threat to global health, with the number of deaths directly attributable to AMR projected to rise to 8 million. One of the main reasons for the current crisis is the depletion of antibiotic candidates in clinical pipelines. To address this, more preclinical candidates must be advanced into development. However, the scientific challenges and limited economic incentives associated with antibiotic research have further aggravated the situation. Antibiotic hybrids, which combine two antibiotics with different modes of action, have emerged as a promising strategy to overcome AMR and are already being developed for clinical use. This approach takes advantage of the strong selective pressure exerted when two bactericidal agents act simultaneously. Importantly, because hybrids are administered as a single chemical entity, they may offer advantages over conventional combination therapies, such as simplified pharmacokinetics and dosing. Furthermore, since clinically validated antibiotics are used as the building blocks of hybrids, this strategy provides an efficient platform for generating new lead compounds. Recently, the concept of antibiotic hybrids has expanded beyond antibiotic–antibiotic conjugates to include the attachment of functional molecules designed to mitigate the disadvantages of the parent antibiotics. In this review, we summarize the definition of antibiotic hybrids, highlight representative compounds that have entered clinical evaluation, and discuss recent advances in their development.

This study aimed to determine if the microbiota in four different oral sites and the oral health status differ between patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS), non-pSS sicca symptoms, and healthy controls. All participants underwent an interview and clinical oral examination. Stimulated whole saliva (SWS), supragingival plaque (SGP), buccal mucosa tissue (BLM), and tongue scrape (TGS) samples from 23 pSS patients, 36 patients with sicca symptoms, not fulfilling the classification criteria for pSS (non-pSS sicca), and 21 age-matched healthy controls (HC) were analyzed using V3–V4 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, and determination of amplicon sequence variants (ASVs). PSS and non-pSS sicca patients did not differ with respect to oral health status, saliva flow rates, abundance of predominant genera, relative abundance on genus level or bacterial diversity in any of the oral sites. Both patient groups differed significantly from the healthy control group in the abundance of 61 ASVs across all sites. The alpha-diversity was lower in SGP from non-pSS sicca patients (p = 0.019), and in TGS from pSS patients (p = 0.04). The proportion of variation in the beta-diversity across all four sites could be explained by the diagnosis (pSS, non-pSS sicca, and HC). However, subgrouping of patients according to their stimulated salivary flow rates (SWS > 0.7 ml/min versus SWS ≤ 0.7 ml/min), revealed significantly different abundance of three ASVs in SWS, 11 in SGP, and six in TGS. Our findings suggest that hyposalivation rather than pSS itself modifies the microbial composition in oral site-specific patterns leading to oral diseases.

Extracellular vesicles derived from probiotics have received considerable attention for their pivotal role in bacterial‒host communication. These nanosized, bilayer-encapsulated vesicles carry diverse bioactive molecules, such as proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and metabolites. Currently, ample evidence has emerged that probiotic extracellular vesicles may modulate several processes of host physiological hemostasis and offer therapeutic benefits. This review examines the biogenesis, composition, and immunomodulatory functions of probiotic-derived extracellular vesicles in probiotic–host interactions, highlighting the therapeutic potential of probiotic extracellular vesicles in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. We further summarize the techniques for the separation and purification of extracellular vesicles, providing a methodological foundation for future research and applications. Although the field of probiotic extracellular vesicle research is still in its infancy, the prospects for their application in the biomedical field are broad, potentially emerging as a novel therapeutic approach.

Alcohol consumption can lead to the accumulation of harmful metabolites, such as acetaldehyde, contributing to various adverse health effects, including hangovers and liver damage. This study presents a comprehensive genomic and functional analysis of Leuconostoc suionicum VITA-PB2, a lactic acid bacterial strain isolated from kimchi, to elucidate its role in enhancing alcohol and acetaldehyde metabolism. Genomic characterization revealed key genes encoding alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), providing insights into the metabolic capabilities of strain VITA-PB2. Phylogenomic analyses confirmed its taxonomic classification and genetic similarity to other Leuconostoc species. Functional validation through in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated superior ethanol and acetaldehyde decomposition abilities of strain VITA-PB2, with significant reductions in blood ethanol and acetaldehyde levels observed in rats administered with the strain. Further analysis indicated that while hepatic ADH activity did not significantly increase; however, ALDH expression was elevated. This suggests that the microbial ADH of strain VITA-PB2 contributed to ethanol breakdown, while both microbial and host ALDH facilitated acetaldehyde detoxification. These findings highlight the potential of strain VITA-PB2 as a functional probiotic for mitigating the toxic effects of alcohol consumption.

Obesity is increasingly recognized as a systemic pro-inflammatory condition that influences not only metabolic and cardiovascular health but also the development and exacerbation of cutaneous inflammatory diseases. This review examines the interplay between obesity, microbial dysbiosis, and two archetypal inflammatory skin disorders—hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and psoriasis. We highlight how obesity-induced changes in immune signaling, gut permeability, and microbiota composition—both in the gut and the skin—contribute to cutaneous inflammation. Special emphasis is placed on shared pathways such as the Th17/IL-23 and IL-22 signaling axes, adipokine imbalance, and microbial metabolites like short-chain fatty acids and lipopolysaccharides. The review critically evaluates the current literature, distinguishing preclinical insights from clinical evidence, and underscores the potential of microbiota-targeted therapies and metabolic interventions as adjunctive treatment strategies. By integrating metabolic, immunologic, and microbiome data, we synthesize emerging evidence to better understand the gut–skin–obesity interplay and guide future therapeutic innovations.

Two novel, Gram-stain-negative, anaerobic, and non-motile bacterial strains, designated KFT8^T and CG01^T, were isolated from the feces of healthy individuals without diagnosed diseases and characterized using a polyphasic approach. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that both strains belong to the genus Bacteroides, with < 99.0% similarity in their 16S rRNA gene sequences to B. facilis NSJ-77^T and B. nordii JCM 12987^T. Within the genus Bacteroides, strain KFT8^T exhibited the highest Orthologous Average Nucleotide Identity value of 94.7% and a digital DNA-DNA hybridization value of 63.7% with B. ovatus ATCC 8483^T, whereas strain CG01^T showed the highest values of 95.3% and 63.3%, respectively, with B. nordii JCM 12987^T. The values between the two novel strains were 74.8% and 21.4%, respectively, which are below the species delineation thresholds, supporting their classification as novel species. The major fatty acid of strain KFT8^T was C_18:1 ω9c, whereas strain CG01^T predominantly contained summed feature 11 (comprising iso-C_17:0 3OH and/or C_18:2 DMA). The only respiratory quinone was MK-11, the major polar lipid was phosphatidylethanolamine. Both strains produced succinic acid and acetic acid as common metabolic end-products of fermentation, while lactic acid and formic acid were detected individually in each strain. Based on polyphasic characterization, strains KFT8^T (= KCTC 15614^T = JCM 36011^T) and CG01^T (= KCTC 15613^T = JCM 36010^T) represent two novel species within the genus Bacteroides, for which the names Bacteroides celer sp. nov. and Bacteroides mucinivorans sp. nov. are proposed, respectively. Additionally, genome-based analyses and phenotypic comparisons revealed that B. koreensis and B. kribbi represent the same strain, showing genomic relatedness to B. ovatus that exceeds the threshold for species delineation. Consequently, we propose the reclassification of B. koreensis Shin et al. 2017 and B. kribbi Shin et al. 2017 as later heterotypic synonyms of B. ovatus Eggerth and Gagnon 1933 (Approved Lists 1980).

Meiotic recombination is initiated by programmed DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), which are subsequently processed to generate single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). Replication protein A (RPA), a heterotrimeric ssDNA-binding complex, plays essential roles in DNA replication, repair, and recombination; however, the specific functions of RPA in meiotic recombination progression and chromosome morphogenesis remain unclear. Here, we investigate the role of RPA in recombination and meiotic progression by conditionally depleting Rfa1, the large subunit of the RPA complex, using an auxin-inducible degron (AID) system in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We show that Rfa1 depletion causes severe defects in meiotic recombination, including impaired DSB processing, defective chromosome axis assembly, compromised synaptonemal complex formation, and failure of ZMM-dependent crossover recombination. Notably, inhibition of Mek1 protein kinase activity, which bypasses the recombination checkpoint, does not rescue these defects in Rfa1-depleted cells. Together, these findings identify RPA as a key factor that stabilizes recombination intermediates and coordinates prophase I events with chromosome synapsis and crossover formation during meiosis.

Skin aging increases transepidermal water loss (TEWL), reduces elasticity, and perturbs the skin microbiome. Adipose tissue-derived stem cell exosomes (ASCE) show regenerative potential; however, their clinical effects on skin physiology and microbiome remain unclear. We conducted a split-face, randomized controlled trial in 16 adults aged ≥ 40 years with visible facial aging. One facial side received ultrasound-assisted transdermal delivery of a human ASCE-containing solution (HACS), whereas the other side received normal saline, at two-week intervals for three sessions. Biophysical outcomes (TEWL, stratum corneum hydration, and elasticity parameters R2/R5/R7) were assessed at baseline and week 2, 4, and 8. Wrinkles, pigmentation, and sebum levels were quantified using Mark-Vu imaging, and the Physician’s Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (PGAIS) and patient satisfaction assessment scores were recorded. Skin swabs from ten participants were subjected to 16S rRNA and ITS1 sequencing. HACS treatment significantly reduced TEWL (p = 0.006 at week 2; p = 0.009 at week 8) and increased hydration (p < 0.001 at all time points) with a significant increase in elasticity (R2/R5/R7 values, p < 0.001). Both the PGAIS and patient satisfaction scores were significantly higher on the experimental side. Bacterial α/β-diversity remained largely unchanged, and no bacterial taxa remained significantly associated with skin parameters after FDR correction. In contrast, several fungal taxa showed significant positive associations with skin parameters after FDR correction, detectable only on the HACS-treated side. No significant adverse events were observed. HACS improved barrier function, elasticity, and aesthetic outcomes, whereas microbiome analyses suggested a modest fungal response associated with treatment-related skin changes in aging skin.

I53-50 is a computationally designed, self-assembling protein nanoparticle (NP) that forms a stable icosahedral structure composed of 120 protein subunits coordinated through precise interfacial interactions. Through unique intelligent regulation, I53-50 exhibits sensitivity to environmental signals and display multimodal “nano-smart” properties. I53-50 has a variety of modifiable surface-active sites, which facilitates precise chemical modification, gene fusion, tag coupling, and other functionalizations, thereby promoting effective lymphatic uptake and optimizing the immune response. I53-50 NPs show great potential in vaccine development, drug delivery, and biomaterials, representing a model fusion of computational biology and nanomedicine and offering a versatile tool for precision medicine.

Collagenase and keratinase are two important proteolytic enzymes with recognized applications in biotechnology and medicine, particularly in the enzymatic removal of necrotic tissue and the control of infection. In the present work, a soil isolate of Bacillus subtilis strain AB2 (PX453297.1) was optimized for enzyme production under different nutritional and physicochemical conditions. The enzymes were recovered by ammonium sulphate precipitation and dialysis, examined by SDS-PAGE and zymography, and further assessed for pH and temperature optima, stability, the influence of metal ions, and kinetic parameters. Maximum collagenase activity (4.41 ± 0.22 U/ml) was observed at 37°C and pH 7.5 in a glucose–peptone medium, whereas keratinase production was enhanced between 37 and 40°C at pH 7.5 in lactose–peptone medium. Protein bands of approximately 55 and 33 kDa were detected, representing 6.2- and 5.5-fold purification. Collagenase showed an alkaline optimum (pH 10.0, 37–45°C) with K_m 0.31% and V_max 1.92 U/ml, while keratinase exhibited dual optima (pH 3.0 and ~7.0) with K_m 0.27% and V_max 0.84 U/ml. Biofilm assays revealed that collagenase reduced pre-formed biomass by 62–68% and viable counts by 1.1–1.7 log₁₀, clearly outperforming keratinase (41–57%, 0.7–1.2 log₁₀). When combined with conventional antibiotics, both enzymes potentiated activity, with notable synergy between collagenase and oxacillin against Staphylococcus aureus (FICI 0.31–0.37), ciprofloxacin against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (FICI 0.37–0.50), and meropenem against Klebsiella pneumoniae (FICI 0.28–0.44). These results indicate that B. subtilis AB2 produces collagenase and keratinase with distinct biochemical characteristics and strong antibiofilm properties, underscoring their promise as adjuncts in chronic wound care as well as in industrial applications.

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy holds significant potential for the treatment of solid tumors. However, immune suppression and tumor-specific barriers limit its application. Claudin 18.2 (CLDN18.2), a gastric lineage-specific tight junction protein highly expressed in gastric and pancreatic cancers, is a promising therapeutic target. In this study, we aimed to develop a next-generation tri-cistronic CLDN18.2-directed CAR-T cell platform that integrates a programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/CD28 chimeric switch receptor with cyclophilin A (CypA). This platform sought to counteract PD-1–mediated immunosuppression and enhance T-cell activation and persistence. We generated CLDN18.2 CAR-T cells incorporating costimulatory inducible T-cell costimulator (ICOS) domains using lentiviral vector-based recombinant engineering. We further evaluated their cytokine release, cytotoxic activity, and safety profiles. In vitro, tri-cistronic CAR-T cells exhibited markedly increased interferon γ and tumor necrosis factor α secretion and enhanced cytotoxicity against CLDN18.2-positive gastric cancer cells compared with conventional CAR-T constructs. In vivo, these cells showed superior antitumor efficacy and sustained tumor regression without observable toxicity in xenograft gastric cancer models. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that the integration of PD-1/CD28 signaling and CypA within a tri-cistronic framework significantly reinforces CAR-T cell functionality and durability. This suggests strong clinical potential as a next-generation immunotherapy for solid tumors.

This study aimed to provide a taxonomic description of two bacterial strains, NKC19-3^T and NKC19-16^T, isolated from commercially produced kimchi obtained from various regions within the Republic of Korea. Both strains were rod-shaped, gram-stain-positive, facultatively anaerobic, and displayed positive reactions for oxidase and catalase. Additionally, these bacteria were motile, halophilic (salt-tolerant), and proliferated under alkaline conditions. Genetically, both strains showed 98.0% similarity in their 16S rRNA gene sequences and were most closely related to Virgibacillus natechei FarD^T, with 96.5 and 96.8% sequence similarity, respectively. ANI values indicated that the two novel strains were distinct from V. natechei FarD^T, as they were below the species demarcation threshold. The ANI value between strains NKC19-3ᵀ and NKC19-16ᵀ was 84.64–84.75%, and the values between these strains and other related strains did not exceed 80.0%, further supporting their classification as novel species. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that strains NKC19-3^T and NKC19-16^T formed a distinct branch within the genus Virgibacillus, clearly distinguishing them from other species in the same genus. Regarding genomic characteristics, the GC content was 38.9% for strain NKC19-3^T and 39.5% for strain NKC19-16^T. The genome of strain NKC19-3^T had a size of approximately 4.1 Mb and contained 3,785 protein-coding genes (CDSs). Strain NKC19-16^T had a slightly smaller genome, approximately 3.9 Mb in size and harbored 3,726 CDSs. The polar lipid profiles of strains NKC19-3ᵀ and NKC19-16ᵀ included diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), glycolipids (GL), and an unidentified lipid (L). The predominant fatty acids of both strains were anteiso-C_15:0 and anteiso-C_17:0. Considering the comprehensive analysis encompassing phenotypic, genomic, phylogenetic, and chemotaxonomic data, strains NKC19-3^T and NKC19-16^T are proposed to represent two novel species within the genus Virgibacillus. The suggested names for these species are Virgibacillus saliphilus sp. nov. (type strain NKC19-3^T, also referred to as KACC 22326^T and DSM 112707^T) and Virgibacillus salidurans sp. nov. (type strain NKC19-16^T, also referred to as KACC 22327^T and DSM 112708^T).

Synbiotics have become a new-age treatment tool for limiting the progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease; however, inclusive comparisons of various synbiotic treatments are still lacking. Here, we have explored and evaluated multiple synbiotic combinations incorporating three distinctive prebiotics, lactitol, lactulose and fructooligosaccharides. Of the synbiotic treatments evaluated, a combination of fructooligosaccharides and probiotics (FOS+Pro) exhibited superior protection against western diet-induced liver degeneration. This synbiotic (FOS+Pro) combination resulted in the lowest body weight gains, liver weights and liver/body weight ratios. The FOS+Pro synbiotic combination substantially alleviated liver histopathological markers and reduced serum AST and cholesterol levels. FOS+Pro ameliorated hepatic inflammation by lowering expression of proinflammatory markers including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and CCL2. FOS+Pro significantly improved steatosis by restricting the expression of lipid metabolic regulators (ACC1, FAS) and lipid transporters (CD36) in the liver. These findings are critical in suggesting that synbiotic treatments are capable of restraining western diet-induced metabolic dysfunction in the liver. Additionally, this study demonstrated that adding probiotic strains amplified the effectiveness of fructooligosaccharides but not all prebiotics.

Methane gas is recognized as a promising carbon substrate for the biosynthesis of value-added products due to its abundance and low price. Methanotrophs utilized methane as their sole source of carbon and energy, thus they can serve as efficient biocatalysts for methane bioconversion. Methanotrophs-catalyzed microbial bioconversion offer numerous advantages, compared to chemical processes. Current indirect chemical conversions of methane suffer from their energy-intensive processes and high capital expenditure. Methanotrophs can be cell factories capable of synthesizing various value-added products from methane such as methanol, organic acids, ectoine, polyhydroxyalkanoates, etc. However, the large-scale commercial implementation using methanotrophs remains a formidable challenge, primarily due to limitations in gas-liquid mass transfer and low metabolic capacity. This review explores recent advancements in methanotroph research, providing insights into their potential for enabling methane bioconversion.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterised by skin fibrosis and internal organ involvement. Disruptions in the microbial communities on the skin may contribute to the onset of autoimmune diseases that affect the skin. However, current research on the skin microbiome in SSc is lacking. This study aimed to investigate skin microbiome associated with disease severity in SSc. Skin swabs were collected from the upper limbs of 46 healthy controls (HCs) and 36 patients with SSc. Metagenomic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene was conducted and stratified by cutaneous subtype and modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS) severity. Significant differences in skin bacterial communities were observed between the HCs and patients with SSc, with further significant variations based on subtype and mRSS severity. The identified biomarkers were Bacteroides and Faecalibacterium for patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc with high mRSS (≥ 10) and Mycobacterium and Parabacteroides for those with low mRSS (< 10). Gardnerella, Abies, Lactobacillus, and Roseburia were the biomarkers in patients with limited cutaneous SSc (lcSS) and high mRSS, whereas Coprococcus predominated in patients with lcSS and low mRSS. Cutaneous subtype analysis identified Pediococcus as a biomarker in the HCs, whereas mRSS analysis revealed the presence of Pseudomonas in conjunction with Pediococcus. In conclusion, patients with SSc exhibit distinct skin microbiota compared with healthy controls. Bacterial composition varies by systemic sclerosis cutaneous subtype and skin thickness.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a serious threat to public health, with the emergence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) in Enterobacteriaceae, particularly Escherichia coli, raising significant concerns. This study aims to elucidate the drivers of antimicrobial resistance, and the global spread of cefotaxime-resistant E. coli (CREC) strains. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed to explore genome-level characteristics, and phylogenetic analysis was conducted to compare twenty CREC strains from this study, which were isolated from broiler chicken farms in Bangladesh, with a global collection (n = 456) of CREC strains from multiple countries and hosts. The MIC analysis showed over 70% of strains isolated from broiler chickens exhibiting MIC values ≥ 256 mg/L for cefotaxime. Notably, 85% of the studied farms (17/20) tested positive for CREC by the end of the production cycle, with CREC counts increasing from 0.83 ± 1.75 log10 CFU/g feces on day 1 to 5.24 ± 0.72 log10 CFU/g feces by day 28. WGS revealed the presence of multiple resistance genes, including bla_CTX-M, which was found in 30% of the strains. Phylogenetic comparison showed that the Bangladeshi strains were closely related to strains from diverse geographical regions and host species. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the molecular epidemiology of CREC. The close phylogenetic relationships between Bangladeshi and global strains demonstrate the widespread presence of cefotaxime-resistant bacteria and emphasize the importance of monitoring AMR in food-producing animals to mitigate the spread of resistant strains.

Synthetic rescue (SR) describes a genetic interaction in which the deleterious effect of a primary mutation is compensated by a second mutation, restoring cellular function or viability. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, SR complements synthetic lethality (SL) by revealing compensatory mechanisms that maintain essential biological processes. Classical studies established SR as a fundamental principle of genetic robustness in yeast. Subsequent development of high-throughput genetic tools, including Synthetic Genetic Array (SGA), Epistatic Miniarray Profile (E-MAP), and CRISPR interference (CRISPRi), has enabled systematic identification of SR interactions across pathways of genome maintenance, proteostasis, and metabolism. Integration of these experimental datasets with computational and network-based analyses has transformed SR research from descriptive genetics into a predictive framework. Databases such as BioGRID, TheCellMap, and Mslar further support SR inference and link yeast genetic networks to human disease models. Understanding SR has important translational implications. The same compensatory logic that restores viability in yeast can explain therapeutic resistance in cancer cells. Together, these insights reveal SR as a powerful concept connecting microbial genetics with systems medicine, emphasizing that robustness and resilience are dynamic properties of living systems.

Marine organisms often form symbiotic relationships with various microorganisms to adapt and thrive in harsh environments. These symbiotic microbes contribute to host survival by providing nutrition, modulating the hosts’ immune system, and supporting overall physiological stability. Advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies have enabled a deeper understanding of the structure and function of symbiotic microbial communities, as well as host-microbe interactions. Notably, symbiotic bacteria associated with marine invertebrates such as corals and sponges are recognized as a potential source of useful bioactive compounds, including antibiotics and enzymes. However, obtaining high-quality microbial DNA from host tissues still remains a technical challenge due to the presence of unknown substances. This study focuses on optimizing sample preparation and DNA extraction procedures and additional purification to improve the recovery of microbial DNA while minimizing host DNA contamination. Comparison between several methods was conducted using sponge samples to evaluate DNA quality and microbial recovery. A sample designated as 2110BU-001 was collected from the east coast of the Republic of Korea and used for culture-independent microbial cell isolation. Total bacterial DNA was extracted by using a manual Phenol-Chloroform protocol and three commercial kits. DNA extracted using the standard manual method showed both the highest yield and the largest fragment size. However, PCR (Polymerase chain reaction) test showed that quality of manually extracted DNA was not enough for sequencing. Therefore, the quality of DNA was improved through additional purification steps. Briefly, host eukaryotic cells were removed by mechanical process and almost only bacterial DNA was successfully obtained by combination of manual extraction method and further purification processes. The established protocol was successfully introduced to extraction of metagenomic DNA from mussel and jellyfish microbiomes, indicating that it can be widely applied to various marine organisms.

Antarctic fungi can effectively adapt to extreme environments, which leads to the production of unique bioactive compounds. Studies on the discovery of fungi in the diverse environments of Antarctica and their potential applications are increasing, yet remain limited. In this study, fungi were isolated from various substrates on the Fildes Peninsula in Antarctica and screened for their antibiosis activity against two significant plant pathogenic fungi, Botrytis cinerea and Fusarium culmorum. Phylogenetic analysis using multiple genetic markers revealed that the isolated Antarctic fungal strains are diverse, some of which are novel, emphasizing the underexplored biodiversity of Antarctic fungi. These findings suggest that these fungi have potential for the development of new antifungal agents that can be applied in agriculture to manage fungal plant pathogens. Furthermore, the antibiosis activities of the isolated Antarctic fungi were evaluated using a dual-culture assay. The results indicated that several strains from the genera Cyathicula, Penicillium, and Pseudeurotium significantly inhibited pathogen growth, with Penicillium pancosmium showing the highest inhibitory activity against Botrytis cinerea. Similarly, Aspergillus and Tolypocladium strains exhibited strong antagonistic effects against Fusarium culmorum. This study enhances our understanding of Antarctic fungal diversity and highlights its potential for biotechnological applications.

Bandavirus dabieense, a single-stranded RNA virus, is the causative agent of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), a disease associated with high fatality rates. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for improving clinical outcomes, particularly given the limited therapeutic options and high mortality rates associated with SFTS. However, while highly sensitive, conventional diagnostic methods such as PCR and qRT-PCR require specialized laboratory facilities and trained personnel, making them impractical for rapid detection in resource-limited settings. To address these challenges, we developed a rapid and highly sensitive assay for Bandavirus dabieense detection by integrating reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) with CRISPR/Cas12a technology. LAMP primers and guide RNA sequences were designed to target the L gene, ensuring broad detection across viral genotypes. The optimized assay demonstrated a detection limit of 5 RNA copies per reaction, showing more sensitivity than qRT-PCR, and exhibited 100% concordance with qRT-PCR results in clinical samples. Given its speed, accuracy, and field applicability, this LAMP-CRISPR/Cas12a-based assay represents a promising diagnostic tool for early SFTSV detection, particularly in resource-constrained environments where conventional molecular diagnostics are not readily available.

A Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, non-motile, rod-shaped, and orange-pigmented bacterium, designated CJ426^T, was isolated from ginseng soil in Anseong, Korea. Strain CJ426^T grew optimally on Reasoner’s 2A agar at 30°C and pH 7.0 in the absence of NaCl. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain CJ426^T belonged to the family Chitinophagaceae and had the highest sequence similarity with Niabella hibiscisoli KACC 18857^T (98.7%). The 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities with other members of the genus Niabella ranged from 92.3% to 98.1%. Phylogenomic analyses and overall genomic relatedness indices, including average nucleotide identity, average amino acid identity, and the percentage of conserved proteins values, supported the classification of strain CJ426^T as a representative of a novel genus within the family Chitinophagaceae. Furthermore, genome-based analyses suggested that five members of the genus Niabella, including N. aquatica, N. defluvii, N. ginsengisoli, N. hibiscisoli, and, N. yanshanensis, should be separated from other Niabella species and be assigned as a novel genus. The major isoprenoid quinone of strain CJ426^T was menaquinone-7 (MK-7). The predominant polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine and six unidentified aminolipids. The major fatty acids were iso-C_15:0, iso-C_15:1 G, and iso-C_17:0 3-OH. The genome of strain CJ426^T was 6.3 Mbp in size, consisting of three contigs, with a G + C content of 41.9%. Based on a polyphasic taxonomic approach, strain CJ426^T represents a novel genus and species within the family Chitinophagaceae, for which the name Paraniabella aurantiaca gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CJ426^T (= KACC 23908^T = JCM 37728^T).