Changes In Microbial Composition Research Articles

Plasma Optimization as a Novel Tool to Explore Plant–Microbe Interactions in Climate Smart Agriculture

Plasma treatment has emerged as a promising tool for manipulating plant microbiomes and metabolites. This review explores the diverse applications and effects of plasma on these biological systems. It is hypothesized that plasma treatment will not induce substantial changes in the composition of plant microbiomes or the concentration of plant metabolites. We delve into the mechanisms by which plasma can regulate microbial communities, enhance antimicrobial activity, and recruit beneficial microbes to mitigate stress. Furthermore, we discuss the optimization of plasma parameters for effective microbiome interaction and the role of plasmids in plant–microbe interactions. By characterizing plasmidome responses to plasma exposure and investigating transcriptional and metabolomic shifts, we provide insights into the potential of plasma as a tool for engineering beneficial plant–microbe interactions. The review presented herein demonstrates that plasma treatment induces substantial changes in both microbial community composition and metabolite levels, thereby refuting our initial hypothesis. Finally, we integrate plasmidome, transcriptome, and metabolome data to develop a comprehensive understanding of plasma’s effects on plant biology and explore future perspectives for agricultural applications.

Unveiling the impact of biodegradable polylactic acid microplastics on meadow soil health.

Soil microplastics (MPs) pollution has garnered considerable attention in recent years. The use of biodegradable plastics for mulching has led to significant quantities of plastic entering agro-ecosystems. However, the effects of biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) plastics on meadow soils remain underexplored. This study investigates the impacts of PLA-MPs of varying particle sizes and concentrations on soil physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, and microbial communities through a 60-day incubation experiment. PLA-MPs increased the pH, soil organic matter, total nitrogen (TN) and available potassium (AK) content, as well as enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase (S-SOD), peroxidase (S-POD), soil catalase (S-CAT), β-glucosidase (S-β-GC) and urease (S-UE) activities. Conversely, a decrease in alkaline phosphatase (S-ALP) activity was observed. The influence of PLA-MPs on soil physicochemical properties was more pronounced with larger particle sizes, whereas smaller particles had a greater effect on enzyme activities. Additionally, PLA-MPs led to an increase in the abundance of Acidobacteriota, Chloroflexi, and Gemmatimonadota, while the abundance of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, and Patescibacteria declined. Mantel test analysis showed that changes in microbial community composition affected soil properties such as pH, AK, S-UE and S-β-GC. Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States (PICRUSt2) analysis demonstrated that PLA-MPs modify bacterial metabolic pathways. Our results suggest that particle size and concentration of PLA-MPs differentially affect soil nutrients and microbial community structure and function, with more significant effects observed at larger particle sizes and higher concentrations.

Impact of grazing by multiple Daphnia species on wastewater bacterial communities.

Understanding the dynamics of fecal bacterial communities is crucial for managing public health risks and protecting drinking water resources. While extensive research exists on how abiotic factors influence the survival of fecal microbial communities in water, less attention has been paid to the impact of predation by higher organisms, such as the widely distributed grazer Daphnia. Nevertheless, Daphnia plays a significant role in regulating bacterial communities in natural aquatic ecosystems, and recent studies highlighted its potential as a biofilter in alternative tertiary wastewater treatment systems. In this study, we investigated the influence of three different Daphnia species on a wastewater bacterial community, including fecal indicator bacterium E. coli. Using a microcosm setup to simulate the discharge of untreated sewage into surface water, we conducted in-depth analysis of bacterial community dynamics through sequencing the 16S rRNA gene. Our results revealed significant changes in microbial diversity and composition following exposure to Daphnia grazing, with variations observed among the three Daphnia species. D. pulicaria exerted the most pronounced impact on microbial diversity, followed by D. middendorffiana and D. mendotae. A total of 90 taxa exhibited significantly reduced relative abundance in the presence of Daphnia, with Firmicutes phylum being the most affected. At genus level, bacteria typically associated with wastewater (e.g., Zoogloea and Arcobacter) and gut microbiome constituents (e.g., Prevotella and Akkermansia) were notably affected by Daphnia exposure. The influence of Daphnia on bacterial community composition was most pronounced for D. pulicaria, while D. middendorffiana and D. mendotae primarily impacted community structure. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the microbial response to Daphnia exposure is phylogenetically conserved, potentially reflecting a grazing resistance or grazer feeding trait. Our findings shed new light on the role of Daphnia in controlling bacterial communities in polluted water bodies and underscore its potential as biofilter in wastewater treatment and reuse contexts.

Exploring the Effects of Imidacloprid on Liver Health and the Microbiome in Rats: A Comprehensive Study

The current study investigates the systemic effects of imidacloprid, one of the most widely used neonicotinoid insecticides, on the liver and gut microbiome of rats in detail. With consideration of recent discussions on the potential harmfulness of imidacloprid to environmental and human health, the aim was to investigate the influence of this compound in the framework of controlled exposure at different dosages, namely, IMI-5, IMI-10, and IMI-30. Histopathological examination showed that liver morphology changed significantly with the dose, including in terms of cellular disorganization and signs of stress, with an alteration in the hepatic architecture. Morphological changes were related to disturbances in the activity of liver enzymes, reflecting deteriorating liver function with increased imidacloprid exposure. In parallel with this, a deep analysis of the gut microbiome revealed dramatic changes in microbial diversity and composition. Alpha diversity, represented by the Chao1 and Shannon indices, was significantly reduced with an increased dosage of imidacloprid. Subsequent beta diversity analysis, as visualized by principal component analysis, showed distinct clustering among the microbial communities, separated well between control and imidacloprid-treated groups, especially at higher dosages. Taxonomic analysis revealed an increase in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and a change in key phyla including Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Verrucomicrobia. A heatmap and bar charts further confirmed dose-dependent changes in microbial abundance. These changes point toward imidacloprid-induced dysbiosis, a reduction in microbial diversity, and an imbalance in the F/B ratio, usually associated with metabolic disorders. Overall, given these findings, it would seem that imidacloprid does indeed impose serious negative impacts on both liver function and gut microbiota composition and may have further impacts on health and ecological safety.

Gut microbiome-gut brain axis-depression: interconnection.

The relationship between the gut microbiome and mental health, particularly depression, has gained significant attention. This review explores the connection between microbial metabolites, dysbiosis, and depression. The gut microbiome, comprising diverse microorganisms, maintains physiological balance and influences health through the gut-brain axis, a communication pathway between the gut and the central nervous system. Dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut microbiome, disrupts this axis and worsens depressive symptoms. Factors like diet, antibiotics, and lifestyle can cause this imbalance, leading to changes in microbial composition, metabolism, and immune responses. This imbalance can induce inflammation, disrupt neurotransmitter regulation, and affect hormonal and epigenetic processes, all linked to depression. Microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids and neurotransmitters, are key to gut-brain communication, influencing immune regulation and mood. The altered production of these metabolites is associated with depression. While progress has been made in understanding the gut-brain axis, more research is needed to clarify causative relationships and develop new treatments. The emerging field of psychobiotics and microbiome-targeted therapies shows promise for innovative depression treatments by harnessing the gut microbiome's potential. Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, are crucial in how the gut microbiota impacts mental health. Understanding these mechanisms offers new prospects for preventing and treating depression through the gut-brain axis.

Effects of Sequential Antimicrobial Phases on Root Canal Microbiome Dynamics in Two-Visit Treatment of Primary Apical Periodontitis: A Longitudinal Experimental Study.

Effective management of primary apical periodontitis depends on understanding the dynamic interactions within the root canal microbiome. This study aimed to investigate the effect of sequential antimicrobial phases on the root canal microbiome during a two-visit treatment approach, with a focus on calcium hydroxide medication. Samples were collected from three teeth across four treatment phases: initial infection (S1), after chemomechanical preparation (S2), after intracanal medication (S3), and after a final flush (S4). DNA was extracted, and the V3-V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene were sequenced using Illumina MiSeq. Sequencing data were analyzed with QIIME 2, and differentially abundant taxa were identified using linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe). While microbial community composition did not differ significantly between phases, the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio decreased after the antimicrobial stages. LEfSe analysis revealed higher abundances of Lactobacillales, Arthrobacter, and Veillonella in the untreated (CMP) group. Bifidobacterium longum was relatively more abundant in the intracanal medication (ICM) phase, and Dorea formicigenerans was more abundant in the final-flush (FF) phase. Although calcium hydroxide treatment did not induce statistically significant changes in overall root canal microbial composition, trends such as a reduction in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and a relative increase in Bifidobacterium longum numbers suggest potential ecological shifts. The observed relative increase in Bifidobacterium longum numbers may represent a hypothesis-driven observation reflecting indirect ecological effects rather than direct pH modulation. While visual patterns (e.g., PCA clustering) were observed, they lacked statistical support. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to validate these observations and assess the potential role of beneficial bacteria in root canal treatments.

Effects of the Ketogenic Diet on Microbiota Composition and Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Women with Overweight/Obesity.

Background/Objectives: The ketogenic diet (KD) is a dietary model that can impact metabolic health and microbiota and has been widely discussed in recent years. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 6-week KD on biochemical parameters, gut microbiota, and fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in women with overweight/obesity. Methods: Overall, 15 women aged 26-46 years were included in this study. Blood samples, fecal samples, and anthropometric measurements were evaluated at the beginning and end of this study. Results: After KD, the mean body mass index decreased from 29.81 ± 4.74 to 27.12 ± 4.23 kg/m2, and all decreases in anthropometric measurements were significant (p < 0.05). Fasting glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, hemoglobin A1C, urea, and creatinine levels decreased, whereas uric acid levels increased (p < 0.05). Furthermore, increased serum zonulin levels were noted (p = 0.001), whereas fecal butyrate, propionate, acetate, and total SCFA levels decreased (p < 0.05). When the changes in microbiota composition were examined, a decrease in beta diversity (p = 0.001) was observed. After the intervention, a statistically significant increase was noted in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio (p = 0.001). Although Oscilibacter, Blautia, and Akkermensia relative abundances increased, Prevotella relative abundance and Bifidobacter abundance, which were the dominant genera before the KD, decreased. Moreover, the abundance of some pathogenic genera, including Escherichia, Klebsilella, and Listeria, increased. Conclusions: In healthy individuals, KD may cause significant changes in microbial composition, leading to dysbiosis and long-term adverse outcomes with changes in serum zonulin and fecal SCFA levels.

Gut-microbiota-brain Axis and post-traumatic epilepsy.

There has been growing evidence that perturbations in gut-microbiota-brain axis (GMBA) are involved in mechanisms of chronic sequelae of traumatic brain injury (TBI). This review discusses the connection between GMBA and post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE), the latter being a common outcome of TBI. The focus is on two aspects of post-TBI GMBA dysfunction that are relevant to epilepsy. First are impairments in intestinal permeability with subsequent translocation of gut bacteria into the bloodstream. Specifically, endotoxemia following TBI may have a serendipitous protective effect against PTE through lipopolysaccharide conditioning, which may be leveraged for the development of therapeutic interventions. Second are changes in microbial composition (i.e., dysbiosis). Here, the GMBA-PTE connection is explored from predictive biomarker perspective, whereby the risk of PTE can be stratified based on specific microbial profiles. Finally, microbiota transplantation is discussed both as a tool to examine the role of gut microbiota in PTE and as a prelude to novel approaches for PTE therapy and prevention.

Rhizosphere microecological mechanism of carbon sequestration and its emission mitigation in rice ratooning

Rice ratooning plays a critical role in mitigating global climate change and enhancing soil carbon sequestration due to its properties of carbon fixation and emission reduction. The rhizosphere micro-ecosystem emerges as one of the key determinants, thus it is highly significant to investigate the impact changes in rhizosphere microbial composition on the ecological mechanisms associated with carbon sequestration and emission reduction in paddy fields. Over two consecutive years, this study analyzed greenhouse gas emission characteristics, photosynthetic carbon assimilation patterns, and rhizosphere microenvironmental differences between the main crop (MC) and ratoon season rice (RSR) using four rice varieties with distinct growth stages and genetic traits. The results demonstrated that compared to MC, RSR reduced the daily average methane (CH₄) emissions from paddy field by 57.78∼64.31 %, while decreasing the distribution of photosynthetic products to the rhizosphere soil by 78.15 %. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed a significant increase in the abundance of autotrophic microorganisms, and the carbon-fixing bacterium Pseudarthrobacter was isolated and identified in RSR soil. The exogenous addition of this microorganism increased the soil organic carbon (SOC) content of RSR by 4.65 %, while simultaneously reducing CH₄ emissions from paddy fields by 26.25 %. The significant increase in autotrophic carbon-fixing bacteria in the rhizosphere soil is one of the key micro-ecological mechanisms driving carbon sequestration and emission reduction in paddy fields. This is attributed to the reduced allocation of photosynthetic carbon assimilation products to the belowground components, thereby promoting the abundance of autotrophic carbon-fixing bacteria in RSR field. Consequently, the ecological niche width of heterotrophic microorganisms, such as methanogens, is reduced, while autotrophic carbon-fixing bacteria mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from RSR field by fixing CO₂ and increasing SOC content. The findings offer valuable theoretical and practical perspectives on attaining the overarching objectives of carbon neutrality and food security.

Bioconversion of sulfamethazine-contaminated chicken manure by black soldier fly larvae: Effects on antibiotic resistance genes and microbial communities.

Sulfamethazine (SM2), a widely detected antibiotic in livestock manure, poses environmental and health risks due to its persistence and the proliferation of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). In this study, we investigated the degradation of SM2 and the elimination of sulfonamide ARGs (sul1 and sul2) in chicken manure contaminated with varying concentration of SM2 by black soldier fly larvae (BSFL). Quantitative PCR and 16S rRNA gene sequencing were employed to monitor changes in sulfa ARGs and microbial community composition within both the larvae gut and chicken manure. During the 12-day test period, BSFL exhibited strong tolerance to SM2, significantly reducing SM2 concentrations by 80.54%-92.22% across different treatment groups. Concurrently, the abundance of sul1 and sul2 decreased by 79.27% and 79.92% in chicken manure, respectively. Additionally, microbial genera such as Firmicutes (47.18-65%) and Bacillus (9.32-10.25%), which were enriched in both the BSFL gut and chicken manure, were identified as potential contributors to SM2 degradation. These findings provide a promising biotechnological strategy for mitigating antibiotic contamination in livestock manure.

Dynamic Shifts in Antibiotic Residues and Gut Microbiome Following Tilmicosin Administration to Silkie Chickens.

Tilmicosin, an antibiotic widely used in animal husbandry to prevent and treat bacterial infections, raises concerns due to its residual accumulation, which impacts both animal health and food safety. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of tilmicosin clearance patterns in different tissues, assessed physiological impacts through blood biochemistry, and investigated changes in gut microbial composition with 16S rRNA sequencing of the tilmicosin-treated Silkie chickens. Initially, we observed rapid peaks in tilmicosin residues in all tissues within 1 day after treatment, but complete metabolism took longer, extending beyond 9 days. Moreover, tilmicosin treatment significantly decreased serum levels of total bile acid, blood urea nitrogen, and uric acid, while increasing the levels of direct bilirubin, total bilirubin, and glutathione peroxidase at day 3, followed by a decrease from day 5 onwards. The effects of tilmicosin use on microbial composition and diversity lasted for an extended period, with the relative abundance of Proteobacteria remaining significantly different between the control and tilmicosin-treated groups at 120 days. Additionally, correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between Mucispirillum_schaedleri and tilmicosin residue in all tissues, while Parabbacteroide_distasonis, Faecalibacterium_prausnitzii, and others exhibited negative correlations with tilmicosin residue. Overall, our study indicates a significant correlation between intestinal microbes and antibiotic residues, providing a theoretical basis for guiding the withdrawal period after antibiotic use.

Invasive Fascioloides magna infections impact gut microbiota in a definitive host in Europe

Invasive parasites that expand their natural range can be a threat to wildlife biodiversity and may pose a health risk to non-adapted, naive host species. The invasive giant liver fluke, Fascioloides magna, native to North America, has extended its range in Europe and uses mainly red deer (Cervus elaphus) as definitive hosts. The penetration of the intestinal barrier by the young flukes to reach the liver via the abdominal cavity as well as the release of fluke metabolism products and excreta with the bile and/or changes in the microbial community of the biliary system may enable the translocation of intestinal bacteria across the intestinal barrier and, in turn, could be associated with inflammation and changes in the intestinal bacterial community. The gut commensal community plays a key role in host nutrition and interacts with cells of the immune system to maintain host health. For this study, the gut bacterial community of red deer infected with F. magna and of non-infected red deer from one of the largest forest ecosystems in Central Europe, located on the border between the Czech Republic and Germany, was investigated. The individual fluke burden was associated with changes in the gut microbial composition of the gut of infected individuals, whereas the diversity and composition of the gut bacteria were only slightly different between fluke-infected and uninfected deer. Several bacterial taxa at the genus level were unique to individuals carrying either one or many liver flukes. Our results suggest that the microbiota of red deer is stable to perturbation by low numbers of F. magna. However, a larger parasite burden may cause changes in the gut microbial composition in definitive hosts implying that non-invasive fecal microbiome assessments could serve as indicator for wildlife health monitoring.

Analysis of the Morphological Characteristics of PM2.5 and Its Microbiological Composition in a Fattening Pig House

Particulate matter (PM2.5) in pig houses and the microorganisms in PM2.5 restrict the sustainable development of the pig industry and have a negative influence on environmental sustainability. This study aimed to investigate the morphological characteristics and diel microbial composition of PM2.5 in fattening pig sheds and explore how changes in the diel microbial composition of PM2.5 correlate with environmental factors and sources. To this end, environmental data from a fattening pig house were monitored, and PM2.5, feed, and faecal particles were examined using electron microscopy. Additionally, the bacterial and fungal assemblages contained in PM2.5 were analysed using 16S and 18S rRNA gene sequencing, respectively. The results showed that NH3, CO2, temperature, and relative humidity were significantly higher at night than during the day. PM2.5 particles from the fattening pig house exhibited different morphologies such as spherical, flocculent, and chain structures. The microbial diversity and bacterial assemblage showed significant variations, which were related to diel environmental factors in the fattening house. In addition, faeces may be the main source of airborne bacteria and feed may be the main source of airborne fungi in fattening houses. These findings provide a scientific basis for exploring the potential risks of the morphological characteristics of PM2.5 and its microbial composition to human and animal health. Additionally, they contribute to the sustainable development of the pig industry and the protection of the environment.

Industrial diet intervention modulates the interplay between gut microbiota and host in semi-stray dogs

BackgroundThe gut microbiota and derived metabolites play a key role in regulating host physiology. Diet is identified as a key regulatory factor of the microbiota composition and, potentially, of subsequent functionalities. Demonstrating the role of diet may be complex as most human studies are cross-sectional and dietary intervention is often accompanied by hygienic changes. The objective of the present study was to investigate the impact of an industrial diet on the modulation of the microbiota and targeted functionalities using a canine “natural” model.ResultsWe carried out a controlled dietary trial in a cohort of Tunisian semi-stray dogs. We made a transition from a natural diet to an industrial kibble diet and monitored the composition of the fecal microbiota, the concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and bile acids (BAs), and protease activities. We demonstrated that dietary change significantly decreased fecal primary bile acids levels and protease activities. Interestingly, correlation analyses demonstrated that variation of specific microbial genera were associated with modulated physiological parameters.ConclusionsOur study reveals that an industrial diet induces beneficial changes in microbial composition and functions characterised by increased diversity, synthesis of SCFA and secondary bile acids production, stressing the key role of the diet-microbiota-dog crosstalk.

Diurnal Rhythmicity in the Rhizosphere Microbiome—Mechanistic Insights and Significance for Rhizosphere Function

ABSTRACTThe rhizosphere is a key interface between plants, microbes and the soil which influences plant health and nutrition and modulates terrestrial biogeochemical cycling. Recent research has shown that the rhizosphere environment is far more dynamic than previously recognised, with evidence emerging for diurnal rhythmicity in rhizosphere chemistry and microbial community composition. This rhythmicity is in part linked to the host plant's circadian rhythm, although some heterotrophic rhizosphere bacteria and fungi may also possess intrinsic rhythmicity. We review the evidence for diurnal rhythmicity in rhizosphere microbial communities and its link to the plant circadian clock. Factors which may drive microbial rhythmicity are discussed, including diurnal change in root exudate flux and composition, rhizosphere physico‐chemical properties and plant immunity. Microbial processes which could contribute to community rhythmicity are considered, including self‐sustained microbial rhythms, bacterial movement into and out of the rhizosphere, and microbe‐microbe interactions. We also consider evidence that changes in microbial composition mediated by the plant circadian clock may affect microbial function and its significance for plant health and broader soil biogeochemical cycling processes. We identify key knowledge gaps and approaches which could help to resolve the spatial and temporal variation and functional significance of rhizosphere microbial rhythmicity. This includes unravelling the factors which determine the oscillation of microbial activity, growth and death, and cross‐talk with the host over diurnal time frames. We conclude that diurnal rhythmicity is an inherent characteristic of the rhizosphere and that temporal factors should be considered and reported in rhizosphere studies.

Aggregate Size Mediated the Changes in Soil Microbial Communities After the Afforestation of a Former Dryland in Northwestern China

Although the afforestation of former arable lands is a common global land-use conversion, its impact on soil microbial communities at the aggregate scale has not been adequately addressed. In this study, soil samples were categorized into large macroaggregates (LM, &gt;2 mm), small macroaggregates (SM, 2–0.25 mm), and microaggregates (MI, &lt;0.25 mm) to assess the changes in microbial composition, diversity, network complexity, and network stability within soil aggregates after the afforestation of a former dryland in northwestern China. The results revealed that afforestation enhanced the relative abundance of Actinobacteriota, Chloroflexi, Ascomycota, and Mortierellomycota within the soil aggregates, suggesting that these phyla may have greater advantages in microbial communities post-afforestation. The Shannon–Wiener and Pielou indices for bacterial communities showed no significant differences between land-use types across all aggregate fractions. However, the alpha diversity of fungal communities within the LM and SM significantly increased after afforestation. Bray–Curtis dissimilarity indices showed that afforestation altered bacterial beta diversity within the LM and MI but had a minimal impact on fungal beta diversity across all three aggregate fractions. The topological features of cross-kingdom microbial co-occurrence networks within the soil aggregates generally exhibited a decreasing trend post-afforestation, indicating a simplification of microbial community structure. The reduced robustness of microbial networks within the LM and SM fractions implies that afforestation also destabilized the structure of microbial communities within the macroaggregates. The composition of the soil microbial communities correlated closely with soil carbon and nitrogen contents, especially within the two macroaggregate fractions. The linkages suggests that improved resource conditions could be a key driver behind the shifts in microbial communities within soil aggregates following afforestation. Our findings indicate that the impact of afforestation on soil microbial ecology can be better understood by soil aggregate fractionation.

Multi-omics insights implicate the remodeling of the intestinal structure and microbiome in aging.

Aging can impair the ability of elderly individuals to fight infections and trigger persistent systemic inflammation, a condition known as inflammaging. However, the mechanisms underlying the development of inflammaging remain unknown. We conducted 16S rRNA sequencing of intestinal contents from young and old C57BL/6J mice to elucidate changes in gut microbiota diversity and microbial community composition after aging. Aging-related differential bacterial taxa were then identified, and their abundance trends were validated in human samples. The variances in intestinal barrier function and circulating endotoxin between groups were also assessed. Furthermore, widely targeted metabolomics was conducted to characterize metabolic profiles after aging and to investigate the key metabolic pathways enriched by the differential metabolites. Our findings demonstrated an increase in relative proportion of pathogenic bacteria with age, a trend also revealed in healthy populations of different age groups. Additionally, aging individuals exhibited reduced intestinal barrier function and increased circulating endotoxin levels. Widely targeted metabolomics revealed a significant increase in various secondary bile acid metabolites after aging, positively correlated with the relative abundance of several aging-related bacterial taxa. Furthermore, old group had lower levels of various anti-inflammatory or beneficial metabolites. Enrichment analysis identified the starch and sucrose metabolism pathway as potentially the most significantly impacted signaling pathway during aging. This study aimed to provide insights into the complex interactions involved in organismal inflammaging through microbial multi-omics. These findings lay a solid foundation for future research aimed at identifying novel biomarkers for the clinical diagnosis of aging-related diseases or potential therapeutic targets.

Preliminary Results From a Multicenter, Randomized Trial Using Fecal Microbiota Transplantation to Induce Remission in Patients With Mild-to-Moderate Crohn's Disease.

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has shown promise at inducing remission in ulcerative colitis. This study is the first of its kind to evaluate the efficacy and safety of FMT at inducing remission in Crohn's disease (CD). This double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in 3 Canadian academic centers; randomized patients with mild-to-moderate CD received FMT or placebo. The first treatment was administered by colonoscopy followed by weekly oral capsules for 7 weeks. Primary end point was clinical and endoscopic remission at week 8. Secondary outcomes included clinical and endoscopic response, adverse events, and health-related quality of life using generic and disease-specific instruments. From July 2017 to June 2021, 21 and 13 patients were randomized to FMT and placebo groups, respectively. The trial terminated early due to futility. At week 8, 0% (0/15) of patients in the FMT group versus 8.3% (1/11) in the placebo group reached the primary end point of combined clinical and endoscopic remission as per protocol analysis. There were no differences between the groups in clinical or endoscopic responses. One patient in each group had worsening of CD. Although both groups experienced statistically significant improvements in health-related quality of life, only the FMT group had a significant decrease in activity impairment. Although there were no significant changes in microbial diversity or composition, patients who achieved clinical response became more similar to their donors in stool microbial composition. FMT was not effective at inducing clinical and endoscopic remission in CD using the FMT regimen in this study. Future studies may use other strategies to enhance treatment response, including longer intervention, antibiotic pretreatment, optimized donor-recipient pairing, and concomitant anti-inflammatory diet, and biologic or small molecule therapies.

INTESTINAL MICROBIOTA AS A BIOMARKER OF HEALTH: AGE-SPECIFIC PROFILES AND FUNCTIONAL IMPACTS

Objective: The purpose of this research is to investigate the age-specific makeup, functional functions, and impact of the human intestinal microbiota on health outcomes over the life course. Method: Microbiota profiles at various life stages, from infancy to old age, were analyzed in a thorough assessment of recent research, with an emphasis on their effects on immune function, metabolism, and disease susceptibility. Results: The results show that each life stage has unique microbial populations that help control important physiological functions. Age-related changes in immunological responses, metabolic regulation, and heightened vulnerability to chronic illnesses are specifically correlated with changes in microbial composition. Novelty: The diagnostic potential of microbiota profiling is highlighted in this review, which also provides fresh perspectives on individualized healthcare strategies. By improving the management of chronic diseases and encouraging healthier aging, the incorporation of microbiota-based approaches into clinical practice may offer more accurate diagnoses and therapeutic interventions for age-related health concerns.

Application of osmoprotectant enhance tolerance to drought stress in rice and trigger changes in root microbial composition

Application of osmoprotectant enhance tolerance to drought stress in rice and trigger changes in root microbial composition