Abstract Purpose of Review Bacteria are highly adaptive organisms that have evolved various survival strategies to persist and thrive in hostile environments. They especially form polymicrobial biofilms with an intricate microbial community network in a highly regulated fashion. This review covers recent findings on bacterial biofilm pathogenesis and innovative multidisciplinary therapeutic interventions for clinical infections. Recent Findings Bacterial cyclic dimeric guanosine monophosphate (cyclic di-GMP) is a central regulator for biofilm pathogenesis orchestrated by quorum sensing (QS) molecules, allowing prolonged survival, host immune evasion, antibiotic resistance, and augmented virulence with severe health consequences. Biofilms associated with medical devices or wounds pose significant risks due to sessile bacteria, which are notably more resistant to eradication than their planktonic counterparts due to diminished metabolic activities. This phenomenon complicates the treatment of biofilm-associated infections and exacerbates the persistence of chronic illnesses. Novel intervention strategies include CRISPR/Cas9, QS inhibitors, natural antimicrobial peptides, probiotics, antimicrobial nanomaterials, and advanced biophysical remedies. Summary A deeper understanding of the regulation of biofilm pathogenesis will facilitate the development of novel interventions suitable for clinical biofilms in various chronic infections.

Abstract Purpose of Review Entamoeba histolytica is the primary causative agent of amebiasis, with transmission occurring mainly through contaminated food and water. A possible, though secondary, zoonotic component has been identified, involving animal reservoirs, primarily non-human primates and dogs. Recent Findings Recent studies indicate that various amoebae species can colonize the human gut, and specific strains may have animal reservoirs capable of maintaining their life cycle and facilitating zoonotic transmission. Summary This review highlights the importance of animal-to-human transmission of pathogenic, potentially pathogenic, and non-pathogenic amoebae species, and discusses their implications from a public health perspective.

Abstract Purpose of Review This review builds upon previous global assessments of anisakidosis by focusing specifically on the diagnostic approaches and treatment strategies reported in clinical cases. Anisakidosis is caused by the ingestion of raw or undercooked seafood contaminated with larvae of parasitic nematodes. While risk factors have been explored earlier, this paper aims to synthesise what is known about the presentation, investigation, and clinical management of anisakidosis to support more accurate and timely diagnoses. Recent Findings Analysis of 1867 reported cases revealed a wide range of symptoms, most frequently abdominal pain and nausea, often emerging within 24 h of consuming raw seafood. The most commonly used diagnostic tools were endoscopy, serological tests, and CT imaging. Endoscopy was also the primary method for both diagnosis and treatment, while surgical intervention was reserved for severe cases. Variation in clinical pathways was noted across regions and case types. Summary This review highlights the critical role of diagnostic accuracy and timely intervention in managing anisakidosis and underscores the need for greater clinical awareness and standardised treatment pathways.

Purpose of ReviewFungal pathogens represent a serious cause of disease and death in immunodeficient and immunocompromised patients. The increasing incidence of antifungal drug resistance poses an elevated risk for susceptible patients. A variety of model systems can be used to study fungal - host interactions and may facilitate improved diagnosis and the development of more effective therapies.Recent FindingsA wide variety of in vivo and in vitro model systems is now used for studying different aspects of human fungal pathogens. Mammalian models such as mice, rabbits and guinea pigs have been used and provided interesting insights into the immune response to fungal infection. Cell systems have utilized epithelial and endothelial cells as well as cultured cell lines to study fungal – cell interactions. More complex 2D and 3D models systems such as organ on a chip and organoids offer more realistic environments for studying fungal – host interactions. Zebra fish embryos have recently been utilized and can offer insights into in vivo efficacy of antifungal therapies. Invertebrate models include the use of nematodes and a number of insect species (e.g. Drosophila melanogaster, Galleria mellonella) can provide a means to rapidly study aspects of fungal virulence and to measure the in vivo toxicity and efficacy of antifungal drugs.SummaryA range of in vivo and in vitro model systems is now widely used in research. In vitro cell systems and the use of insects or nematodes offer a means to rapidly assess fungal virulence or the efficacy of antifungal therapies before embarking on more costly, and ethically restricted, mammalian testing.