Biology[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Community Composition, Assembly Processes and Stability of Microeukaryotic Plankton in Response to Damming-Altered Heterogeneous Hydrology in a Sediment-Laden River.
Yuan H, Mei J, Lyu X … +6 more , Gao X, Dong J, Zhang J, Zhu P, Gao Y, Li X
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345801 · Full text
Suspended particulate matter (SPM) is a key environmental driver in aquatic ecosystems and plays a significant role in shaping microbial communities, particularly in sediment-rich rivers. Dam construction alters hydrolog...
Suspended particulate matter (SPM) is a key environmental driver in aquatic ecosystems and plays a significant role in shaping microbial communities, particularly in sediment-rich rivers. Dam construction alters hydrological regimes and creates distinct SPM gradients; however, the response mechanisms of microeukaryotic plankton communities remain poorly understood. In this study, we used 18S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing to characterize microeukaryotic plankton communities across riverine, lacustrine, and transitional zones of the Xiaolangdi Reservoir on the Yellow River (China). Our results revealed distinct community compositions in the lacustrine zone, with SPM identified as the primary factor driving community differentiation. Alpha diversity was highest in the riverine zone, while beta diversity differences among zones were dominated by species turnover. Dominant taxa included Cryptophyta (44.71% ± 30.79%), Metazoa (18.98% ± 17.71%), Perkinsea (7.97% ± 9.78%), Chlorophyta (7.06% ± 5.80%), and Dinophyta (6.06% ± 6.73%). Metazoa, Dinophyta, and Phaeophyta were enriched in high-SPM riverine waters, whereas Alveolata dominated low-SPM lacustrine zones. Community assembly was primarily deterministic, governed mainly by homogeneous selection, with stochastic processes exerting stronger influence in riverine zones. Network analysis indicated that riverine zones exhibited more complex and stable networks, lacustrine zones showed higher local but lower global connectivity, and transitional zones displayed stronger interactions but lower stability. These findings advance our understanding of microeukaryotic plankton responses to dam-induced environmental changes and provide a basis for assessing biodiversity impacts in regulated river systems.
Possible Triggering of Molecular Mimicry by Environmental Pollution.
Mishina S, Adams B, Uhal B … +1 more , Liang Y
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345800 · Full text
The 'molecular mimicry theory' states that foreign antigens introduced during infection can activate autoreactive T or B cells, leading to autoimmune diseases. However, despite a decrease in infectious burden, autoimmune...
The 'molecular mimicry theory' states that foreign antigens introduced during infection can activate autoreactive T or B cells, leading to autoimmune diseases. However, despite a decrease in infectious burden, autoimmune disease incidence is on the rise globally. To address this paradox, we analyzed the impact of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) on the autoimmune-prone mouse strain MRL. We found that BaP induced the expression of genes, the protein products of which showed homology to bacterial pathogens, in the MRL spleen and kidneys. Based on our findings, we propose the hypothesis that environmental pollutants may 'mimic' the impact of pathogen invasion on the immune system in autoimmune-susceptible individuals.
CaNAC61, CaNAC79, and CaNAC92 Act as Negative Regulators in Pepper Defense Response Against .
Wang Y, Chu M, Gong B … +5 more , Li X, Wang J, Azeem M, Li Y, Cheng W
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345799 · Full text
Phytophthora blight, caused by the oomycete pathogen , is a devastating disease that severely constrains pepper () production, leading to significant yield reduction and quality deterioration. Pathogen infection elicits...
Phytophthora blight, caused by the oomycete pathogen , is a devastating disease that severely constrains pepper () production, leading to significant yield reduction and quality deterioration. Pathogen infection elicits a host immune response that involves extensive transcriptional reprogramming, during which transcription factors (TFs) act as key regulatory hubs linking upstream signaling cascades to downstream defense gene expression networks. NAC TFs represent a plant-specific gene family and play crucial roles in plant growth, development, and response to various stresses. However, the infection-responsive transcriptional dynamics and functions of NAC TFs during pepper- interactions remain poorly elucidated. In this study, transcriptome profiling and RT-qPCR analysis of pepper plants challenged with identified three NAC TF genes-, , and -that were consistently upregulated at the infection stages. Subcellular localization assays demonstrated that all these three proteins localize to the nucleus. Silencing of , , or in pepper conferred enhanced resistance to . In contrast, their transient overexpression in pepper leaves significantly promoted lesion expansion and suppressed transcript levels of the defense marker genes , , and . Consistently, heterologous overexpression in transgenic further validated , , and as negative regulators in resistance to . Collectively, our findings demonstrated that CaNAC61, CaNAC79, and CaNAC92 negatively regulate plant resistance to , expanding the functional diversity of NAC TFs in plant immune responses and providing valuable candidate targets for genetic improvement against Phytophthora blight.
Characterization and Immune Function of in Snakehead ().
Wang B, Liu Y, Zhu X … +7 more , Cao M, Fu Q, Li Y, Yang N, Zhang X, Wu G, Li C
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345798 · Full text
The innate immune response is a critical defense mechanism by which vertebrates recognize and eliminate invading pathogens. Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) detect pathogen-associated molecular patterns and activate...
The innate immune response is a critical defense mechanism by which vertebrates recognize and eliminate invading pathogens. Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) detect pathogen-associated molecular patterns and activate downstream signaling pathways. , a classic PRR of the NLR family, recruits the adaptor protein to initiate antibacterial signaling. In this study, we cloned and characterized the gene from snakehead (). Briefly, the full-length cDNA is 2829 bp encoding 943 amino acids, showing high homology with Perciformes. The qPCR analysis revealed widespread gene expression in various tissues, with significant upregulation in the gill ( < 0.05) and spleen ( < 0.05) following bacterial infection. Overexpression of the gene activated the NF-κB signaling pathway in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and specifically responded to the bacterial ligand iE-DAP but not to other tested ligands. Furthermore, synergized with the downstream adaptor to enhance NF-κB activity, and direct protein interaction between and was confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that snakehead plays a critical role in the host antimicrobial immune response.
Tuning Secretomes for Regenerative Medicine.
Buschmann J
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345797 · Full text
In this narrative review, the systematic tailoring of cell-derived secretomes for regenerative medicine is comprehensively discussed. The review begins by evaluating a diverse array of cell sources, including platelets,...
In this narrative review, the systematic tailoring of cell-derived secretomes for regenerative medicine is comprehensively discussed. The review begins by evaluating a diverse array of cell sources, including platelets, endothelial cells, osteoblasts, chondrocytes, tenocytes, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). From this foundation, we critically analyze how modulating cell culture conditions can be used to directly influence the therapeutic and paracrine profiles of the resulting secretomes. Specifically, we address the impact of the following critical parameters on secretome fabrication: (i) Culture Medium Supplementation: The use of defined media, supplements, and chemical priming agents. (ii) Cell Cultivation Formats: A comparative analysis of 2D monolayer cultures versus 3D spheroids. (iii) Culture Duration and Fluidics: The effects of culture time alongside static versus dynamic culture systems. (iv) Microenvironmental Stress: The influence of varying oxygen levels (for example, hypoxia) and induced oxidative stress on secretory output.
Exploratory Metaviromic Analysis of the Sea-Rock Pool Mosquito and the Water of Its Breeding Habitat.
Mancini P, Brandtner D, Cordeschi G … +4 more , Iaconelli M, Mastrantonio V, La Rosa G, Porretta D
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345796 · Full text
The mosquito-associated virome may modulate host biology and influence vector competence, highlighting the importance of understanding its composition. Here, a metagenomic analysis was conducted to characterize the virom...
The mosquito-associated virome may modulate host biology and influence vector competence, highlighting the importance of understanding its composition. Here, a metagenomic analysis was conducted to characterize the virome of the sea-rock pool mosquito across sexes and developmental stages, together with water from its sea-rock pool breeding site in San Felice Circeo (Italy). A total of 51 viral taxa were identified, including viruses associated with bacteria and archaea (39%), plants, algae, fungi, and protists (35%), vertebrates (8%), and invertebrates (18%), including insect-specific viruses such as , , , and . Twenty-five percent of the taxa were shared across samples, suggesting acquisition from breeding-site water and persistence across stages during development. Interestingly, the need for host genome filtering highlights the potential sequence similarity between viral and mosquito genomes, which may reflect the presence of endogenous viral elements or historical virus-host interactions. These findings represent the first characterization of the virome of and highlight the role of aquatic breeding sites in shaping mosquito virome. Finally, we argue the importance of adequate sequencing depth and host genome filtering to capture the diversity of the mosquito virome.
Dietary Zinc Supplementation Improves Growth, Antioxidant Capacity, Immunity, and Intestinal Health in Juvenile Black Carp ().
Yu J, Zhang P, Zhang X … +8 more , Zhu X, Xie Y, Zhang H, Shao X, Xie M, Liu Y, Yang X, Wu C
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345795 · Full text
Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element that plays important roles in growth, digestion, antioxidant defense, immunity, and inflammation regulation in fish. This study investigated the effects of graded dietary Zn levels...
Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element that plays important roles in growth, digestion, antioxidant defense, immunity, and inflammation regulation in fish. This study investigated the effects of graded dietary Zn levels on growth performance, serum biochemistry, digestive enzyme activity, zinc transporter expression, antioxidant capacity, immune responses, and inflammatory regulation in juvenile black carp (). Six isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets were formulated to contain 27.95, 34.38, 44.90, 66.52, 116.14, and 199.56 mg/kg Zn by supplementing ZnSO·7HO. Juvenile fish with an initial weight of 2.88 ± 0.12 g were fed the experimental diets for 60 days in triplicate tanks. Growth performance increased with dietary Zn and then plateaued at 44.90-199.56 mg/kg; broken-line regression estimated the optimal dietary Zn requirement at 44.6 mg/kg. Adequate Zn supplementation also reduced whole-body lipid content, increased digestive enzyme activities, improved serum HDL-C and ALP levels, and decreased AST and ALT activities. In addition, adequate dietary Zn (44.90 mg/kg) significantly modulated the expression of zinc transporter genes in the liver and intestine. Adequate dietary Zn supplementation enhanced antioxidant capacity by activating the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway, improved intestinal immunity, and strengthened barrier function by increasing the expression of tight junction proteins and mucins. Moreover, adequate dietary Zn could alleviate inflammatory responses by upregulating anti-inflammatory factors and downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines via the signaling pathway. These findings suggest that dietary zinc at 44.60 mg/kg is sufficient to promote growth, antioxidant status, immune function, and intestinal health in juvenile black carp.
Regulation of Neuronal Senescence by and Reveals Mechanisms of Aging-Related Neurodegeneration.
Deng Z, Chen J, Li J … +4 more , Luo X, Luo Q, Ren M, Li X
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345794 · Full text
Neuronal senescence-like states are increasingly implicated in age-related neurodegeneration, yet the neuron-intrinsic regulators that drive these phenotypes remain poorly defined. Guided by prior transcriptomic analysis...
Neuronal senescence-like states are increasingly implicated in age-related neurodegeneration, yet the neuron-intrinsic regulators that drive these phenotypes remain poorly defined. Guided by prior transcriptomic analysis of aged basal forebrain cholinergic neurons, we investigated and using primary basal forebrain neuronal cultures with adeno-associated virus-mediated gain- and loss-of-function, quantitative immunocytochemistry, and low-input transcriptomic profiling of fluorescence-activated cell sorting-isolated neurons. Both perturbation strategies produced the expected directional changes in target transcripts. Overexpression of either gene increased the other, whereas knockdown did not elicit reciprocal suppression, indicating asymmetric regulatory coupling. Phenotypically, showed a bidirectional association with senescence-like changes, as both overexpression and knockdown increased p16 and p21, whereas acted more directionally, with overexpression increasing and knockdown reducing these markers. Transcriptomic profiling revealed broad direction-dependent remodeling, including a set of 55 genes that changed concordantly across perturbation directions. Pathway analysis further showed specialization, with preferentially associated with an Alzheimer's disease-related signature and more strongly linked to cholinergic synapse programs. Together, these findings identify and as coupled but non-equivalent regulators of a neuronal senescence-like program.
Genomic Analysis of the Halotolerant Hydrocarbon-Oxidizing Bacterium G3 from a Petroleum Reservoir.
Ershov AP, Tourova TP, Sokolova DS … +2 more , Semenova EM, Nazina TN
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345793 · Full text
An inevitable decrease in oil production from reservoirs all over the world necessitates the application of microbial enhancement of oil recovery (MEOR) technologies. The high total salinity of formation water is a facto...
An inevitable decrease in oil production from reservoirs all over the world necessitates the application of microbial enhancement of oil recovery (MEOR) technologies. The high total salinity of formation water is a factor strongly suppressing the growth of most industry-applicable strains of hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria. The halotolerant strain G3 isolated from an oil reservoir (Republic of Kazakhstan) has demonstrated high efficiency of oil degradation and presumable biosurfactant production. The ability of the strain to utilize crude oil, -alkanes, toluene, and xylene and its resistance to NaCl concentrations up to 6% were shown, as well as a high decrease in the interfacial tension of the culture liquid. Genomic analysis of the strain confirmed its ability to oxidize aromatic oil compounds and a wide range of -alkanes (with a chain length up to C) and revealed its potential capabilities to produce alginate, consume nitrate and urea as nitrogen sources, and synthesize betaine as an osmoprotectant. These findings demonstrate the high potential of strain G3 to be used in oil reservoirs with high-salinity formation water in the biotechnology of oil displacement through oil degradation and in situ microbial metabolite production.
From Localization to Coordination: Distributed Causality and the Emergence of Biological Function in the Brain and Plant Systems.
Castiello U
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345792 · Full text
The classical localizationist framework in biology and neuroscience has provided a powerful approach for linking structure to function. However, increasing evidence indicates that biological functions emerge from distrib...
The classical localizationist framework in biology and neuroscience has provided a powerful approach for linking structure to function. However, increasing evidence indicates that biological functions emerge from distributed interactions across complex systems. While network and systems-based approaches have advanced this transition, they often remain focused on connectivity patterns or statistical dependencies. In this review, I argue that a further conceptual step is required: a coordination-based framework in which biological function emerges from the context-dependent selective stabilization of interactions among distributed components that become causally relevant for specific outcomes. I develop this perspective comparing brain network organization and plant signaling, two systems that exhibit adaptive behavior without relying on centralized control. Across both domains, function depends on the dynamic coordination of heterogeneous processes operating across multiple spatial and temporal scales. This framework acknowledges structural specialization but argues that specialized components become effective through coordinated interaction regimes. I further discuss how this perspective extends current systems biology approaches by prioritizing temporally structured interaction patterns as the primary explanatory target. Finally, I outline empirically testable predictions suggesting that biological function is better captured by time-resolved coordination dynamics, hub-mediated integration, and metastable interaction regimes than by localized activity or static connectivity.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression of the Mulberry PLA Family Under Drought and Salinity.
Ma W, Bao L, Sun B … +6 more , Li M, Li X, Qin X, Jiao F, Su C, Zhang M
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345791 · Full text
Mulberry ( spp.) is valued for sericulture, medicine, and ecological restoration of degraded lands. Phospholipase A (PLA) enzymes hydrolyze membrane lipids and play critical roles in plant growth and stress responses, ye...
Mulberry ( spp.) is valued for sericulture, medicine, and ecological restoration of degraded lands. Phospholipase A (PLA) enzymes hydrolyze membrane lipids and play critical roles in plant growth and stress responses, yet the family in mulberry remains uncharacterized. Here, we performed genome-wide identification of PLA genes in order to systematically analyze their phylogenetic relationships and gene structures, and profile their expression across tissues and under drought and salt stress, thereby providing candidate genes for future functional studies on stress tolerance. Fifty non-redundant genes were identified and classified into three subfamilies: (22), (nine), and (19). Most predicted PLA proteins are small (100-500 aa) with predicted instability. Gene structures varied from 1 to 21 exons, and subfamily specific conserved domains (patatin/C2, PLATZ, lipase_3) were detected. Promoters contained stress- and hormone-responsive elements. Expression patterns across five tissues revealed distinct preferential patterns: 56% of genes showed highest expression in roots, with one-fifth in leaves. Under stress, 10 and 12 genes were increased >2-fold (logFC > 1.0) by drought and salt, respectively. Notably, XP_010108435.1 and XP_024022961.1 exhibited leaf-specific high expression and were salt-induced (logFC > 1.0); XP_010090405.1 (leaf-specific low) was drought-induced (logFC > 1.0); and XP_024023462.1 (root-specific high) was induced by both stresses. These results provide a basis for functional studies and genetic improvement of stress tolerance in mulberry.
Mechanisms of Copper Stress Response in Plants: Implications for the Medicinal Plant .
Liu C, Jiang S, Ma J … +6 more , Pan M, Sun W, Wen D, Zhang R, Ma W, Liu X
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345790 · Full text
Copper is an essential trace element for plant growth; however, in excessive amounts, it can cause severe toxicity by inducing bursts of reactive oxygen species and disrupting metabolic balance. As a root-based medicinal...
Copper is an essential trace element for plant growth; however, in excessive amounts, it can cause severe toxicity by inducing bursts of reactive oxygen species and disrupting metabolic balance. As a root-based medicinal plant and food, has its roots in direct contact with the soil. Its ability to accumulate copper is the most pronounced among various heavy metals; consequently, it is particularly susceptible to copper stress, which in turn affects its normal growth and medicinal quality. This paper focuses on the intrinsic stress potential and possible response pathways of to copper stress. Drawing on existing research and relevant literature, it conducts an integrated analysis of its defence mechanisms across four levels: physical barriers, non-enzymatic antioxidants, conserved physiological and biochemical pathways, and transcriptional regulation. Regarding physical barriers, the cell wall forms the first line of defence through pectin adsorption and lignin deposition; in terms of endogenous antioxidant defence, secondary metabolites such as polysaccharides and saponins can directly participate in the scavenging of reactive oxygen species; regarding conserved pathways, the glutathione-phytochelate system acts in concert with antioxidant enzymes such as SOD and CAT to participate in copper ion chelation and the alleviation of oxidative stress, with hormone signalling regulation also playing a crucial coordinating role in this process; regarding transcriptional regulation, transcription factors such as PgWRKY may mediate the perception of stress signals and the expression of downstream genes. These pathways act in a coordinated and sequential manner, collectively forming a multi-level defence network through which responds to copper stress. At the same time, this paper highlights the functional limitations of this defence system, summarises the shortcomings in current research, and proposes directions for future studies, with a view to guiding the safe cultivation and quality assurance of in copper-polluted areas, as well as for the breeding of heavy-metal-tolerant medicinal plants.
Proteome-Based Antigen Screening and Multi-Epitope Design Against : An In Silico Study.
Sripath K, E-Kobon T
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345789 · Full text
Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris, with recognised as a key etiological agent. The global increase in acne prevalence, coupled with the rising incidence of antibiotic-resistant strai...
Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris, with recognised as a key etiological agent. The global increase in acne prevalence, coupled with the rising incidence of antibiotic-resistant strains, underscores the necessity for alternative therapeutic strategies. Vaccination has emerged as a promising approach, with various candidates targeting live-attenuated strains and specific virulence factors. Nevertheless, the expanding availability of genomic data presents an opportunity to identify previously uncharacterized antigens that hold potential as novel targets for the development of next-generation acne vaccines. Therefore, this study aimed to identify core proteins among genomes and evaluate their immunogenicity as potential multi-epitope peptide constructs. In addition, IA1-specific proteins of were examined to develop the peptide constructs targeting acne-associated isolates. Pan-core analysis of 609 genomes identified 972 core genes. These genes were subsequently analysed for epitope prediction and antigenicity, and the highly antigenic epitopes were selected and combined for further analysis. Multi-epitope peptides were constructed based on predicted MHC-I, MHC-II, and linear B-cell epitopes, yielding four promising candidates derived from core proteins and IA1-specific proteins. Molecular docking analysis indicated that both groups showed binding affinity for TLR2 and TLR4 receptors, suggesting possible molecular compatibility with these receptors. Furthermore, in silico immune simulations indicated that both types of multi-epitope peptides were associated with simulated humoral and cellular immune response profiles, although these responses require experimental validation. This computational workflow may help narrow the selection of potential acne vaccine candidates and prioritise multi-epitope peptide constructs for subsequent vaccine design steps and experimental validation.
Biochemical, Immunohistochemical and Behavioral Effects of Spexin in a Methimazole-Induced Hypothyroidism Rat Model.
Koçak S, Ünlü G, Kalkan KT … +2 more , Pektaş F, Türk A
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345788 · Full text
Hypothyroidism is associated with metabolic, neurobehavioral, and reproductive alterations that may involve neuroendocrine regulatory peptides. Spexin, a neuropeptide implicated in energy homeostasis, has recently attrac...
Hypothyroidism is associated with metabolic, neurobehavioral, and reproductive alterations that may involve neuroendocrine regulatory peptides. Spexin, a neuropeptide implicated in energy homeostasis, has recently attracted attention for its possible role in thyroid and reproductive axis regulation. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of spexin on neurobehavioral responses and the tissue-specific expression of irisin and KISS-1 in the cerebral cortex and testis under hypothyroid conditions. Thirty-two male rats were randomly divided into four groups: Control, Hypothyroid (methimazole, 0.03% in drinking water for 35 days), Hypothyroid + Spexin (methimazole plus spexin, 25 µg/kg, intraperitoneally), and Spexin (25 µg/kg, intraperitoneally). Behavioral assessments were performed using the Open Field Test and Forced Swim Test. Serum thyroid hormone levels were analyzed, and brain and testis tissues were evaluated immunohistochemically for irisin and KISS-1 expression. Hypothyroid rats showed increased thyroid-stimulating hormone levels, decreased thyroxine concentrations. Spexin administration significantly reduced TSH levels and increased T4 concentrations. Spexin treatment reduced thigmotaxis compared to controls. No significant differences were found among groups in overall locomotor activity, time spent in the central zone, or FST parameters. Immunohistochemical analyses demonstrated reduced irisin and KISS-1 expression in hypothyroid rats, which was restored following spexin treatment. In conclusion, spexin exerted TSH-suppressive and T4-enhancing effects in experimental hypothyroidism. Its effects on irisin and KISS-1 expression suggest potential involvement in neuroendocrine and reproductive axis regulation.
Cultivable Fungi in Amazonian Black-, White-, and Clear-Water Rivers.
Bindá VDS, Almeida JDR, Arévalo ADS … +7 more , de Siqueira MB, da Silva RM, Cortez ACA, Canto ESM, Souza ÉS, Frickmann H, Souza JVB
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345787 · Full text
Cultivable fungi are important components of freshwater ecosystems, yet their diversity in Amazonian aquatic environments remains poorly explored. This study evaluated cultivable fungal communities associated with water,...
Cultivable fungi are important components of freshwater ecosystems, yet their diversity in Amazonian aquatic environments remains poorly explored. This study evaluated cultivable fungal communities associated with water, sediment, and submerged wood in the Negro, Solimões, and Tapajós Rivers, representing the major black-, white-, and clear-water systems of the Amazon basin, respectively. Samples were collected along 25 m transects, fungi were isolated on potato dextrose agar, grouped into morphotypes, and identified morphologically. Diversity was assessed using richness, Shannon, Simpson, Pielou, and Sørensen indices. Overall, 130 isolates and 75 morphotypes were recorded, with a predominance of morphotypes assigned to filamentous Ascomycota and widespread occurrence of and . Solid substrates yielded greater fungal abundance and richness than water samples. Submerged wood from the Negro River showed the highest overall cultivable fungal abundance, whereas the Tapajós River showed the highest diversity in water and sediment and the highest richness in both substrates. The Solimões River showed stronger dominance by a limited number of morphotypes, particularly in submerged wood. Sørensen similarity values indicated low compositional overlap among rivers, especially for submerged wood communities, suggesting apparent differentiation among river-associated cultivable fungal assemblages. Together, these exploratory results suggest that substrate type, hydrochemical differences, and potential temporal effects may be associated with the structure of cultivable fungal communities in Amazonian rivers.
Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction and Stem Cell Impairment Following Cardiac Surgery in Pigs: A Porcine Model Study.
Nian H, Li Y, Chen Z … +3 more , Zhu J, Yang P, Cui L
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345786 · Full text
Cardiac surgery induces systemic stress responses that may compromise intestinal homeostasis in animal patients, yet the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study investigated postoperative intestinal pa...
Cardiac surgery induces systemic stress responses that may compromise intestinal homeostasis in animal patients, yet the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study investigated postoperative intestinal pathophysiology in a porcine model, focusing on the activation of the NF-κB pathway and its impact on intestinal stem cell function. Thirty-two large white pigs (40-50 kg) were randomized into control and model groups; the model group underwent simulated cardiac procedures involving aortotomy and left ventricular outflow tract exposure under standardized anesthesia. Our findings revealed significant NF-κB pathway activation and upregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the intestine following surgery. Intestinal stem cells isolated from crypts showed downregulated expression of key barrier proteins. Notably, organoids derived from the model group exhibited impaired early proliferative capacity and delayed morphogenesis, despite preserved differentiation potential upon extended culture. This suggests a stress-induced state that favors the maintenance of stemness over commitment to differentiation. These results delineate an NF-κB/MMP-mediated mechanism linking surgical stress to intestinal barrier dysfunction and stem cell dysregulation in this large animal model. Crucially, the study provides insights that may help improve perioperative care and reduce gastrointestinal complications in animal patients undergoing major surgeries, thereby enhancing animal welfare. The identified pathways offer potential targets for developing supportive therapies in veterinary practice.
Ecological Roles of Biodegradable Mulch Film on Soil Nutrients and Microbes.
Wang J, Zheng X, Wei Y … +5 more , Xia J, Wang F, Zhao J, Li X, Wang J
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345785 · Full text
Biodegradable mulch film (BDM) is increasingly promoted as a sustainable alternative to conventional polyethylene mulch film because it can degrade in soil after agricultural use. However, current evaluations mainly focu...
Biodegradable mulch film (BDM) is increasingly promoted as a sustainable alternative to conventional polyethylene mulch film because it can degrade in soil after agricultural use. However, current evaluations mainly focus on degradation efficiency and crop productivity, often assuming that biodegradation automatically implies ecological safety. Here, we argue that this assumption is incomplete. Rather than acting as a passive substitute, BDM degradation represents a temporally structured ecological disturbance that actively alters soil microbial metabolism, extracellular enzyme stoichiometry, nutrient cycling, and rhizosphere function. We propose that the ecological consequences of BDM are primarily determined by whether polymer degradation is synchronized with microbial succession and crop nutrient demand. This perspective shifts the evaluation of BDM from degradation efficiency and economic benefit toward ecosystem functionality and provides a new theoretical framework for designing next-generation biodegradable agricultural materials.
Salivary Aldehyde Dehydrogenases in Oral Toxicology: Biological Functions, Disease Associations, and Translational Perspective.
Khan MA, Younus H
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345784 · Full text
Salivary aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs), particularly ALDH3A1, are increasingly recognized as potential contributors to oral defense against aldehyde-associated stress at the oral-environment interface. Unlike freely se...
Salivary aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs), particularly ALDH3A1, are increasingly recognized as potential contributors to oral defense against aldehyde-associated stress at the oral-environment interface. Unlike freely secreted salivary enzymes, measurable salivary ALDH activity primarily reflects intracellular and vesicle-associated enzymes derived from salivary gland epithelial cells, oral mucosal cells, immune cells, and exfoliated cellular components. Within the oral exposome, ALDHs expressed in oral epithelial and salivary gland tissues participate in the detoxification of reactive aldehydes, while salivary ALDH activity may serve as an indicator of local aldehyde-detoxification capacity and tissue redox status. Beyond aldehyde metabolism, emerging evidence suggests that ALDH-associated pathways are linked to redox regulation, epithelial stress adaptation, inflammatory signaling, and tissue repair through NAD(P)-dependent processes and stress-responsive networks such as Nrf2 and SIRT1. This review provides a saliva-focused synthesis of ALDH biology, emphasizing isoform-specific functions and the potential importance of ALDH3A1 in oral epithelial defense. Altered salivary ALDH activity has been reported in association with oral conditions including periodontitis, oral lichen planus, radiation-induced salivary dysfunction, and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Genetic factors, particularly ALDH2 polymorphisms, together with environmental exposures and microbial dysbiosis, may further influence aldehyde burden and oral disease susceptibility. Although current evidence supports the biological relevance of salivary ALDHs, their utility as clinical biomarkers or therapeutic targets remains investigational and requires further mechanistic and clinical validation.
Long-Standing Activity with Characteristic Genomic Insertion Signatures in Reptilian Bov-B LINEs and Associated Sauria SINEs.
Nakatsuka Y, Ohshima K
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345783 · Full text
Although long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs) and short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs) are typically passed down to descendants as part of the genome, the Bov-B LINE was likely horizontally transferred from...
Although long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs) and short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs) are typically passed down to descendants as part of the genome, the Bov-B LINE was likely horizontally transferred from a snake to the ancestor of ruminants. Plant RTE-clade LINEs and their associated SINEs possess a genomic insertion signature different from that of mammalian L1 LINEs. However, the reason for the increased frequency of horizontal transfer in RTE-clade LINEs such as Bov-B relative to that in L1-clade LINEs has not yet been clarified. In this study, we identified family members of the reptilian Bov-B LINE and associated Sauria SINE across various squamate species to determine the amplification timing of the LINE. The findings revealed that the LINE may be over 180 million years old. Moreover, profiling of target site duplications showed that a characteristic genomic insertion signature of the LINE and SINE closely resembled the signature of the plant RTE-clade LINEs. We conducted phylogenetic analyses of RTE-clade LINEs with characteristic genomic insertion signatures and estimated their divergence times. The findings suggest an ancient origin (over 411 MYA) of the retrotranspositional mechanism underlying this signature; however, a complex evolutionary trajectory of LINEs across species warrants further investigation.
Wetland Restoration Effects on Waterbird Diversity and Habitat Use: A Long-Term Case Study from Chongming Dongtan in Shanghai, China.
Yuan B, Li D, Zou Y … +1 more , Shen X
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345782 · Full text
The continued loss and degradation of wetlands pose major challenges to global waterbird conservation. In response, large-scale wetland restoration projects have been widely implemented worldwide, yet their long-term eco...
The continued loss and degradation of wetlands pose major challenges to global waterbird conservation. In response, large-scale wetland restoration projects have been widely implemented worldwide, yet their long-term ecological effectiveness has not been sufficiently evaluated. Here, we assessed the long-term impacts of wetland restoration on waterbird communities at Chongming Dongtan Wetland, China, using 17 years of monitoring data spanning pre-restoration, restoration, and post-restoration phases. Our results suggest that the Ecological Control of and Improvement of Bird Habitats substantially enhanced waterbird diversity, with both species richness and total abundance increasing significantly after restoration. Restored artificial wetlands supported particularly high abundances of waterbirds, confirming their role as critical supplementary habitats alongside natural tidal flats. Notably, different waterbird guilds exhibited pronounced seasonal shifts in habitat use: the Anatidae predominated during the wintering period, whereas Waders dominated during spring and autumn migrations, and the degree of reliance on artificial versus natural wetlands varied markedly between guilds and across seasonal cycles. Beyond local effects, we detected a clear spillover effect, whereby increases in waterbird abundance and species richness were also observed in adjacent non-restored natural intertidal mudflats following restoration. In addition, several threatened and nationally protected species were recorded exclusively during the post-restoration phase, indicating improved habitat suitability for conservation-priority taxa. Overall, our findings highlight that wetland restoration can generate both local and landscape-scale biodiversity benefits, emphasizing the importance of incorporating habitat heterogeneity, seasonal habitat requirements, and spillover effects into coastal wetland restoration and management strategies.
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