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Challenges and future directions in AI-driven biomaterials for microbiome-associated oral infectious diseases: A systematic review.

Oral biofilm-induced antimicrobial resistance is the core pathogenic mechanism of microbiome-associated oral infectious diseases (dental caries, periodontitis, peri-implantitis, and endodontic infection). Traditional therapies and biomaterials are limited by poor biofilm penetration, drug resistance induction, single functionality, and inadequate adaptation to dynamic oral microenvironmental changes (e.g., pH fluctuations, salivary rinsing, masticatory stimulation). Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the field by integrating materials science, microbiology, and stomatology data. Via machine learning, deep learning, and multi-physics simulation, AI optimizes biomaterial physicochemical properties, decodes microenvironmental signals, constructs precise sensing-response loops, and supports the full chain of material design, performance prediction, and action simulation, advancing treatment from empirical intervention to precision regulation. This systematic review retrieved literature from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science (January 2016-January 2026) using keywords across three dimensions: AI, biomaterials, and oral microbiome. Following inclusion/exclusion criteria, 99 articles were included. It elaborates on five core mechanisms of AI-driven oral biomaterials (precise oral microbiome analysis, targeted material design/optimization, performance prediction/simulation, targeted delivery/intervention, effect evaluation/dynamic regulation), analyzes their applications in microbiome-targeted biomaterial research and development (R&D) and clinical practice for the four major oral infectious diseases, addresses technical bottlenecks (insufficient targeting specificity and precision of biomaterials, poor stability and durability in complex oral microenvironments, inadequate biofilm disruption capacity, and clinical translation obstacles), and proposes future directions (multimodal design to enhance targeting specificity, structural and component optimization to improve stability/durability, development of multi-mechanism synergistic biofilm disruption strategies, strengthening translational research for clinical application, and deep integration of AI in the full chain of biomaterial R&D). This work provides comprehensive theoretical and practical support for the R&D, optimization, and clinical translation of AI-driven microbiome-targeted oral biomaterials.

Humans

Transcriptomic changes in the gut mucosa of fasting northern elephant seal pups reveal immune modulation during early microbiome establishment.

Fasting is an integral component of the life-history of many species. Following abrupt weaning, northern elephant seal pups (Mirounga angustirostris) undergo an extended post-weaning fast of approximately 60 days. During this period, enteric bacterial diversity increases, suggesting that host immune regulation may facilitate the establishment of microbial communities. However, the molecular processes occurring within the intestinal mucosa during this transition remain poorly understood. To investigate these mechanisms, we characterized transcriptional changes in the enteric mucosa of male and female northern elephant seal pups sampled at weaning and after one month of fasting. Total RNA isolated from rectal swabs was sequenced and aligned to the Mirounga angustirostris reference genome. Differential gene expression and gene set enrichment analyses were used to identify genes and pathways associated with fasting and sex-specific responses. Fasting was accompanied primarily by transcriptional downregulation, including genes involved in antimicrobial defense, inflammation, protein turnover, and epithelial remodeling. In contrast, several genes associated with B-cell activity and immune recognition were upregulated. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis revealed coordinated activation of immune-regulatory pathways indicating dynamic modulation of intestinal immunity rather than generalized immune suppression. Pronounced sex-specific differences were also observed. Male pups exhibited transcriptional patterns consistent with enhanced immune tolerance, whereas females showed broader immune-pathway activation, including enrichment of pro-inflammatory and stress-response pathways. Several non-coding RNAs also displayed sex-specific changes in expression. Together, these findings suggest that fasting induces transcriptional remodeling of the gut and may contribute to immune regulation during a critical period of microbiome establishment in northern elephant seal pups.

Animals

Characterization and application potential of two newly isolated phages targeting the prevalent multidrug resistant Salmonella serovars in China.

The escalating global threat of multidrug resistant (MDR) Salmonella, a foodborne pathogen with animal-derived foods serving as the primary transmission vehicle, underscores the urgent need for effective lytic phages for biocontrol. From 142 environmental and farm samples in Shandong Province, we isolated 103 phages active against MDR S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium, which were the most prevalent Salmonella serovars in China. Two Siphoviridae phages vB-SenS-S1 and vB-SenS-SEC2 were selected for further study. With optimal multiplicities of infection (MOIs) of 10-2 (vB-SenS-S1) and 10-5 (vB-SenS-SEC2), both phages exhibited a 20 min latent period, yielding burst sizes of 52 and 37 PFU/cell, respectively. They also demonstrated stability across a range of temperatures (50-60 °C), pH levels (5-11), and after 1 h of UV exposure. Genomic analysis identified vB-SenS-S1 (43,002 bp, 47.04% GC) and vB-SenS-SEC2 (42,948 bp, 47.65% GC) as novel double-stranded DNA phages. Functional annotation confirmed the presence of genes essential for structural assembly, host lysis, and DNA replication/metabolism, and also verified the absence of resistance, virulence, and lysogeny-associated genes. Both phages vB-SenS-S1 and vB-SenS-SEC2 exhibited synergy with colistin and tetracycline. The synergy with colistin was particularly potent, leading to complete bacterial eradication in vitro. The in vivo therapeutic efficacy was further validated in both Galleria mellonella larvae and murine models of MDR Salmonella infection. Combination therapy with vB-SenS-SEC2 and colistin not only dramatically increased survival but also achieved a significant reduction in bacterial burden across multiple visceral organs of infected mice. Moreover, vB-SenS-S1 (108 PFU/mL) completely inhibited MDR Salmonella on chicken meat at 4 °C and -20 °C when initial contamination was ≤103 CFU/mL. This study not only expands the diversity of Salmonella phages but also highlights their potential as biocontrol agents in both clinical veterinary use and food decontamination, thereby enhancing food quality and safety at both the meat production source and the terminal product.

Animals

The Brazilian contribution to ant toxinology: challenges and perspectives.

Ant toxinology in Brazil is a small but growing field that has revealed wide biochemical diversity and clear potential for bioprospecting therapeutic molecules. This review compiles the Brazilian contribution, focusing on advances in the characterization of venoms from medically and ecologically important species of Dinoponera, Solenopsis, Paraponera, Pachycondyla, Neoponera, and Ectatomma. Brazilian groups applied omics approaches, including transcriptomics and proteomics, to resolve the composition of these venoms and identified peptide-rich arsenals with antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antitumor, and neuroactive activity. Studies of venom phenotypic plasticity showed ecological factors such as diet and seasonality shape venom composition. Two challenges persist: assigning function to still unidentified components and obtaining venom in the quantities that broad analysis requires. The near-term prospects are the rational design of peptide analogues with improved activity and continued bioprospecting of new species, which together position Brazil as a central contributor to ant toxinology.

Animals

Multi-omics analysis reveals stage-associated differences in gut immunity and microbiota between juvenile and adult common carp (Cyprinus carpio).

In vertebrates, the development of intestinal immunity is closely associated with dynamic changes in the gut microbiota. However, stage-associated differences in intestinal immunity and gut microbial communities remain poorly characterized in teleost fish. In this study, transcriptomic analysis combined with 16S rRNA gene sequencing was employed to characterize intestinal immunity and gut microbial communities in juvenile and adult common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Transcriptomic profiling revealed marked developmental differences in intestinal immune function. Juvenile carp exhibited a predominantly innate immune phenotype, characterized by elevated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, antimicrobial peptides, and lysozyme-related genes. This immune profile was accompanied by enhanced mucosal barrier function and a relatively pro-inflammatory intestinal environment. In contrast, adult carp displayed increased expression of genes associated with adaptive immunity, suggesting that adult common carp exhibit relatively stronger adaptive immune characteristics than juvenile fish. Gut microbiota analysis demonstrated significant stage-dependent differences in microbial diversity and community composition. Juvenile fish were enriched with bacterial taxa potentially associated with innate immune activation, whereas adult fish harbored distinct microbial communities linked to intestinal homeostasis and barrier maintenance. Furthermore, correlation analyses identified significant associations between specific microbial taxa and innate immune-related gene expression, suggesting a close association between gut microbiota composition and intestinal immune characteristics in juvenile and adult common carp. Collectively, these findings reveal stage-associated differences in intestinal immunity and gut microbial communities between juvenile and adult common carp, thereby providing insights into intestinal immune characteristics at different developmental stages in teleost fish.

Animals

Spore-forming Clostridia as overlooked determinants of microbial risk in wastewater reuse systems.

Using treated municipal wastewater for crop irrigation is a key strategy to combat drought-induced water scarcity. However, current wastewater reclamation standards systematically underestimate risks from spore-forming pathogens. As highlighted in a recent minireview by A. Mrozinski, C. Le Maréchal, and E. Topp in Applied and Environmental Microbiology (92:e00173-26, 2026, https://doi.org/10.1128/aem.00173-26), Clostridioides difficile and Clostridium perfringens survive conventional disinfection, persist indefinitely in agricultural soils, and harbor critical antibiotic resistance genes. To safeguard the food supply and protect public health, regulatory frameworks must shift from relying solely on standard vegetative bacterial indicators and include monitoring resilient, spore-forming pathogens.

Clostridium

Domestication-associated reduction of methyl salicylate in tomato root and its significance for resistance to root-knot nematode.

Methyl salicylate (MeSA) plays diverse roles in the aerial parts of plants. By contrast, its biosynthesis and function in roots remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated root MeSA biosynthesis and function in tomato. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were performed using root MeSA levels as the phenotype in a diversity panel of 167 accessions to identify associated loci. Candidate genes were biochemically characterized, and the role of MeSA in defense against root-knot nematode (RKN, Meloidogyne incognita) was evaluated using transgenic plants. MeSA was identified as a major root volatile in tomato and showed a domestication-associated reduction. GWAS revealed multiple loci associated with natural variation in root MeSA, including a major locus on Chromosome 9 encoding the salicylic acid methyltransferase (SlSAMT). SlSAMT-overexpressing plants showed reduced resistance to RKNs, whereas SlSAMT-knockdown plants exhibited enhanced resistance. Our results suggest complex roles of MeSA and the salicylic acid (SA) signaling pathway in belowground plant defense. The SA signaling pathway likely plays critical roles in protecting roots against diverse natural enemies, including RKNs. Nevertheless, RKNs appear to have co-opted MeSA as a host-location signal, and the domestication-associated reduction of root MeSA in tomato has likely contributed to enhanced resistance against RKNs.

Solanum lycopersicum

Alginate-based edible coating incorporating green tea extract for preserving postharvest quality and safety of white mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus).

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a sodium alginate based edible coating incorporated with green tea extract (GTE) (Camellia sinensis) on the postharvest quality attributes and antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes in white mushrooms during refrigerated storage. The phenolic profile of GTE was characterized, and its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against L. monocytogenes (1.6&#xa0;mg/mL) was determined. Sodium alginate coatings, with (ALG-GTE) or without GTE (ALG) at MIC (1.6&#xa0;mg/mL), were characterized (functional groups, solubility in water, moisture, thickness, water contact angle and color) for their chemical and physical properties. The effects of ALG-GTE coatings on quality parameters (firmness, weight loss, color, pH, sugars and organic acids), enzymatic activity [polyphenol oxidase (PPO), peroxidase (POD) and pectin methylesterase (PME)], antimicrobial activity against L. monocytogenes (5 log CFU/g), and surface characteristics (3D optical profilometry) were assessed in white mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) during refrigerated storage (8&#xa0;days, 4&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;1&#xa0;&#xb0;C, 90-95% RH). The ALG-GTE coatings preserved sugar composition, particularly rhamnose, reduced organic acids accumulation and delayed weight and firmness loss, reduced color changes, and decreased PME activity in coated white mushrooms. L. monocytogenes counts decreased by 1.4 log CFU/g after 1&#xa0;day, and no viable cells were detected after 2&#xa0;days (< 1.5 log CFU/g) in ALG-GTE coated white mushrooms. In addition, ALG-GTE coated white mushrooms exhibited smoother surfaces than uncoated samples. These findings highlight the potential of ALG-GTE coatings as a sustainable alternative capable of improving the microbiological safety and delaying the postharvest changes in fresh mushrooms.

Agaricus

Single-cell transcriptomics reveals heterogeneous stress responses and Mg2+-mediated survival mechanisms in Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus during freeze-drying and storage.

Maintaining the viability of lactic acid bacteria during dehydration and subsequent storage remains a significant challenge. Here, we employed single-cell RNA sequencing to reveal the heterogeneous stress responses of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, identifying seven distinct transcriptional clusters across the liquid culture, freeze-drying, and storage phases. The dominant clusters in the freeze-drying and storage were not completely consistent, showing significant functional differentiation. Genomic stability may be important for survival during freeze-drying and storage, while intracellular energy homeostasis appears important for viability during storage. The magnesium transporter mgtB was highly expressed in clusters tolerant to freeze-drying and storage, suggesting a critical role for Mg2+ homeostasis. Further experimental validation confirmed that Mg2+ treatment significantly bolstered stress resistance, increasing immediate post-freeze-drying survival by over 2-fold (up to 92.90%) and post-storage survival by over 5-fold (up to 5.98%). Proteomic data indicated that Mg2+ supplementation correlated with the maintenance of several biological functions potentially relevant to bacterial survival during freeze-drying and storage, including DNA repair, translation, and central carbon metabolism. These findings provide a map of microbial stress resistance through population heterogeneity and offer a potential strategy that may be adapted for enhancing the stability of other industrial lactic acid bacteria products.

Freeze Drying

Integrated assessment of biocontrol potential and genome analysis of endophytic Bacillus velezensis MGL-B1 against mango stem-end rot.

Mango stem-end rot is a globally significant postharvest disease that severely threatens the mango industry, primarily caused by Botryosphaeria dothidea. However, information on biocontrol agents targeting this pathogen in mango remains limited. In this study, we isolated and identified a strain of Bacillus velezensis MGL-B1 from mango leaf tissues for the first time, which exhibited broad-spectrum antifungal activity. Both in vitro and in vivo assays demonstrated that MGL-B1 effectively inhibited the growth of B. dothidea, with an in vivo biocontrol efficacy reaching 83.72&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;5.10%, comparable to that of the commonly used chemical fungicide thiabendazole. Further mechanistic analysis revealed that MGL-B1 acts by directly disrupting the integrity of the pathogen's mycelial cell membrane. In addition, its released volatile organic compounds (VOCs) also displayed significant antifungal activity, with components such as 2-nonanone, 2-nonanol, and phenylethyl alcohol being confirmed to exert antifungal effects in in vitro fumigation assays. qPCR analysis showed that MGL-B1 treatment significantly upregulated the transcriptional levels of genes involved in plant-pathogen interaction, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and antioxidant defense pathways in mango fruits, with upregulation folds of 16.32, 37.19, and 75.93, respectively; meanwhile, the expression of browning-related genes such as polyphenol oxidase (PPO) was markedly suppressed. Whole-genome sequencing further revealed 14 biosynthetic gene clusters for antimicrobial compounds, including five unknown gene clusters. Collectively, B. velezensis MGL-B1 represents a promising biocandidate strain with multiple antifungal mechanisms and excellent control efficacy, providing a valuable resource for green and sustainable management of mango diseases.

Mangifera

Olive leaf protein hydrolysates yield gastro-resistant peptides with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential: peptidomics, in vitro validation and molecular docking analyses.

Olive (Olea europaea L.) leaves are an abundant olive-oil by-product and a promising feedstock for sustainable valorisation. An olive leaf protein isolate (OLPI) from olive-leaf powder (OLP) was enzymatically hydrolysed to yield seven hydrolysates (OLPHs). All showed notable antioxidant activity as whole hydrolysate matrices (EC&#x2085;&#x2080;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.11-0.28&#xa0;mg&#xa0;mL-1); likely reflecting the combined contribution of released peptides and co-extracted phenolic compounds; the 15-min Alcalase product (OLPH15A) showed high activity with the shortest processing time. Its INFOGEST digest (dOLPH15A) attenuated LPS-induced inflammation in Caco-2 cells, down-regulating pro-inflammatory and up-regulating anti-inflammatory genes. Peptidomics identified 7037 peptides in OLPH15A and 534 in dOLPH15A, from which twenty gastro-resistant sequences were prioritised for in silico analysis. Multi-tool prediction and docking highlighted four peptides, GAAGGIGQPL, QSAYPGTGPL, GGGAGGGDGGIL and LDAQFPGVN, with favourable predicted affinity for the TLR4/MD2 complex, suggesting that they may contribute to the observed immunomodulatory response. These findings position olive leaves as a viable source of protein hydrolysate-based ingredients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, advancing the valorisation of olive-oil by-products.

Olea

Integration of single-cell transcriptomics and genomic mutation analysis identifies an immunotherapy-resistant tumor subcluster and validates ARNTL2 as a malignant driver in lung adenocarcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Immunotherapy resistance in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains a critical clinical challenge, and the mechanisms underlying resistance-associated intratumoral heterogeneity are poorly characterized. METHODS: We performed single-cell RNA sequencing of LUAD patients receiving neoadjuvant immunotherapy (responders vs. non-responders), integrating inferCNV, GSVA, and differential expression analyses. Cluster-specific genes were validated across seven independent cohorts (TCGA-LUAD, GSE13213, GSE26939, GSE29016, GSE30219, GSE31210, GSE42127). A multi-algorithm machine learning framework was used to construct a prognostic model, and the immune microenvironment was characterized using TCIA scoring, seven infiltration algorithms, and ESTIMATE. ARNTL2 function was assessed by CCK-8 and Transwell assays in A549 and H1299 cells. RESULTS: Non-responders showed significant enrichment of epithelial cells, depletion of cytotoxic T/NK cells, and elevated copy number variation burden versus responders (p < 0.0001). A resistance-enriched malignant subcluster (Cluster 2) exhibited hyperproliferative and metabolic reprogramming signatures with upregulated KRT17, S100A2, and CST6, which showed tumor-specific overexpression, adverse prognostic value, and genomic amplification across cohorts. CoxBoost combined with survivalSVM achieved optimal predictive performance (C-index = 0.686), yielding robust risk stratification (HR: 2.54-10.51, all p < 0.05). Low-risk patients showed greater immune infiltration and higher TCIA immunophenoscores. ARNTL2 was an independent prognostic factor (HR: 2.07-4.64) strongly correlated with risk score (r = 0.69), and its knockdown suppressed proliferation and invasion in both LUAD cell lines (all p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study identifies a resistance-associated malignant subcluster in LUAD, constructs a validated CoxBoost + survivalSVM prognostic model with robust immune stratification, and establishes ARNTL2 as a core oncogenic driver and therapeutic target.

ARNTL2

Ruling out pediatric bacterial epididymo-orchitis with urinalysis - The case for minimizing unnecessary antibiotic prescription.

INTRODUCTION: Epididymo-orchitis in pediatric patients is predominantly non-bacterial, often stemming from viral or reactive etiologies. Despite guidelines recommending conservative management for non-bacterial cases, antibiotic overtreatment remains prevalent in the outpatient setting. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of urinalysis in ruling out bacterial infection to support antibiotic stewardship in this population. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional diagnostic accuracy study using electronic health records from a large health maintenance organization in Israel. The cohort included patients younger than 18 years with a diagnosis of epididymo-orchitis or clinically overlapping entities (acute scrotum, appendage torsion) who had paired urinalysis and urine culture results within one week of diagnosis. Logistic regression and ROC curve analysis were performed to assess the ability of urinalysis parameters to predict positive urine cultures. RESULTS: Of 682 eligible cases, confirmed bacterial infection was rare, occurring in only 17 patients (2.5%). Nitrite positivity was the strongest independent predictor of infection (OR 43.98; p < 0.001). A prediction model incorporating all urinalysis parameters yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.825 and achieved a 97.7% classification accuracy for correctly predicting negative cultures. Despite the low prevalence of infection, antibiotics were prescribed in 237 cases (34.7%). Urinary anatomic abnormalities were significantly associated with culture positivity. CONCLUSIONS: Bacterial coinfection in pediatric epididymo-orchitis is uncommon. Urinalysis serves as a highly accurate screening tool to rule out bacterial etiology. A negative urinalysis supports withholding antibiotics in this setting, reserving treatment for children with positive markers or known anatomic abnormalities. This evidence-based approach This evidence-based approach has the potential to reduce unnecessary antibiotic exposure, however prospective studies are needed to validate these findings before broad implementation.

Humans

Ventriculostomy-Related Infections by Country-Income Level: A Systematic Review and Bayesian Hierarchical Meta-analysis.

Our objective was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of published literature on ventriculostomy-related infection (VRI) and evaluate temporal and global trends. We conducted a systematic review and Bayesian hierarchical random-effects meta-analysis of VRI rates in adults, stratified by country-income level (high-income countries [HIC]; low- or middle-income countries [LMIC]), study design, sample size, enrollment period, VRI intervention, and VRI definition. We identified 159 articles published between 1989 and 2025 that included 523,704 patients with 7293 VRIs. The pooled VRI rate was 8.64% [95% CI: 7.44-9.97], with moderate heterogeneity and good model fit. The leave-one-out sensitivity analysis showed a mean absolute change of 0.06% and a maximum change of 0.2%, indicating robust analysis. Five of the 33 represented countries had VRI rates below the global pooled rate of 8.64%. Four were HICs: Singapore (VRI rate 3.3% [0.8-7]), the United States (VRI rate 4.6% [3.4-5.9]), Germany (VRI rate 6.1% [1.1-18.9]), Norway (8.3% [0.3-68.4]), with 1 LMIC: China (8.5% [5.4-12.4]). VRI was significantly higher in studies using definitions beyond CSF culture alone for VRI (+3.16% [0.11- 6.52]) and in those from Europe (+7.29% [4.62-10.10]) and the Western Pacific (+4.09% [1.55-6.98]). No other subgroup demonstrated significant differences. This Bayesian meta-analysis provides global estimates and factors associated with VRI. Standardization of VRI definitions is critical for future benchmarking of VRI rates.

Humans

Genome-wide identification and characterization of ABC transporters and their expression in response to saline-alkaline stress and WSSV infection in Fenneropenaeus chinensis.

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters play crucial roles in stress responses across organisms, yet their functions in Fenneropenaeus chinensis remain largely unknown. In this study, we identified 42 FcABC genes (FcABCs) in the F. chinensis genome and analyzed their phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, and chromosomal distributions. Phylogenetic analysis grouped the FcABCs into eight subfamilies (ABCA-ABCH), with conserved motif and domain compositions within each subfamily. Expression analysis showed that several FcABC genes, including FcABCG5, FcABCA1, and FcABCC3, were significantly induced under saline-alkaline stress in gill and hepatopancreas tissues. In contrast, most FcABCs were downregulated after WSSV challenge, though a subset (e.g., FcABCB1, FcABCC1) exhibited early upregulation. Functional validation via RNA interference demonstrated that knockdown of FcABCG5 increased shrimp mortality under saline-alkaline stress. Cis-regulatory element analysis revealed an enrichment of stress- and immune-related elements in FcABC promoters. Protein-protein interaction network predictions indicated potential roles for FcABCs in cholesterol metabolism and organic anion transport. Our findings provide insights into the roles of FcABC genes in stress adaptation and immune defense, offering candidate genes for the breeding of stress-resistant shrimp varieties.

Animals

Ramu stunt virus genome reveals previously unreported segments and nucleocapsid domain duplication in Mechlorovirus.

Ramu stunt virus (RmSV), a member of the genus Mechlorovirus within the family Phenuiviridae, was previously described as a six-segmented RNA virus infecting sugarcane. In this study, we re-examined type material and additional isolates using high-throughput sequencing and RT-PCR validation, revealing that RmSV possesses a nine-segmented genome, making it the largest reported in the Phenuiviridae. This expanded architecture includes duplicated RNA segments (RNA 2a and RNA 2b) encoding nucleocapsid-like proteins and two novel segments (RNA 7 and RNA 8). Comparative analysis showed that RNA 2a and 2b share about 84% amino acid identity, while RNA 5 encodes a third nucleocapsid homolog, indicating unprecedented domain redundancy. Structural modeling confirmed that all three nucleocapsid proteins maintain a conserved fold despite low sequence identity, with electrostatic mapping suggesting differential RNA-binding potential. Additionally, RNA 6 encodes a hypothetical protein structurally similar to the rice stripe virus disease-specific S-protein, implicating a role in symptom development. Transcript abundance analysis revealed RNA 6 as the most highly expressed segment across isolates. These findings revise the genomic composition of RmSV, highlight mechanisms of genome plasticity and adaptive evolution in plant-infecting bunyaviruses, and underscore practical implications for diagnostic assay design, resistance breeding, and biosecurity surveillance.

Genome, Viral

Therapeutic approaches for the treatment of bovine metritis: a systematic review of clinical, reproductive and productive outcomes.

Bovine metritis is a complex multifactorial disease associated with substantial clinical and economic impact due to reduced milk production, subfertility, and increased culling rates. Considerable uncertainty remains regarding the comparative efficacy of the many therapeutic strategies used to manage it. This systematic review aimed to summarize and critically evaluate the available evidence on therapeutic approaches for bovine metritis, with respect to clinical cure, reproductive performance, productive performance, and culling. A literature search conducted in PubMed, Web of Science and CABI Digital Library (2010-2025) identified 18 randomized controlled clinical trials eligible for inclusion. Risk of bias was assessed independently by two reviewers using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool. Given substantial clinical and methodological heterogeneity across studies, findings were synthesized narratively by outcome, without meta-analytic pooling, and the certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE for the comparisons supported by more than one study. Overall, systemic antimicrobial therapies consistently improved short-term clinical cure rates, although their effects on long-term reproductive and productive performance remained inconsistent. In selected cases, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) showed clinical outcomes comparable to antimicrobial treatments, allowing reductions in antimicrobial use ranging from 50% to 92%. Alternative approaches, such as intrauterine flavonoid, chitosan or dextrose-based therapies, produced inconsistent results that appeared to correlate with disease severity and treatment protocol. The evidence base is limited by substantial heterogeneity in disease definitions, postpartum timing of diagnosis, and cure criteria across studies, and by the near-universal absence of allocation concealment in the primary literature; these limitations restrict the certainty of most conclusions to low or moderate. Therefore, effective metritis control should move beyond symptom resolution and incorporate integrated and preventive strategies targeting inflammatory and metabolic dysregulation during the transition period.

Animals

Transcriptomic analysis provides molecular insights into the innate immune defense of Mactra veneriformis against Vibrio alginolyticus infection.

Mactra veneriformis is an economically important bivalve mollusc in China, but its aquaculture is frequently threatened by Vibrio infections, particularly Vibrio alginolyticus. To investigate the molecular immune response of M. veneriformis to V. alginolyticus, we performed RNA-seq analysis of hepatopancreatic tissues collected at 48&#xa0;h post-infection, the peak mortality time point, with PBS-injected individuals used as controls. Infection with V. alginolyticus caused severe histopathological damage in the hepatopancreas and resulted in a cumulative mortality of 53.3% over 14 d, compared with 3.3% in the control group. Transcriptomic analysis identified 2623 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 1585 significantly up-regulated genes and 1038 down-regulated genes. KEGG enrichment analysis demonstrated that DEGs were significantly enriched in immune related and metabolism pathways, including the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, RIG-I-like receptor (RLR) signaling pathway, and cytochrome P450 (CYP450) signaling pathway. Collectively, these findings revealed candidate immune related genes (tlr3, tlr5, myd88, nfkb1, il-17d, and ifi44l), a putative TLR-MyD88-NF-&#x3ba;B signaling axis, and KEGG signaling pathways, including JAK-STAT, RLR and CYP450, that may be involved in the innate immune response of M. veneriformis to V. alginolyticus infection. These results provide a transcriptomic basis for understanding host-pathogen interactions in this species and highlight candidate genes and pathways for future functional validation and potential application in disease-resistance breeding.

Animals