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Microorganisms Mar 2024Gut microbes play a vital role in the health and disease of animals, especially in relation to pathogen infections. Chinchillas, ferrets, and marmots are commonly used...
Gut microbes play a vital role in the health and disease of animals, especially in relation to pathogen infections. Chinchillas, ferrets, and marmots are commonly used as important laboratory animals for infectious disease research. Here, we studied the bacterial and fungal microbiota and discovered that chinchillas had higher alpha diversity and a higher abundance of bacteria compared to marmots and ferrets by using the metabarcoding of 16S rRNA genes and ITS2, coupled with co-occurrence network analysis. The dominant microbes varied significantly among the three animal species, particularly in the gut mycobiota. In the ferrets, the feces were dominated by yeast such as and , while in the , we found and dominating, and , , and in the marmots. Nevertheless, the dominant bacterial genera shared some similarities, such as and across the three animal species. However, there were significant differences observed, such as and in the ferrets, and in the chinchillas, and and in the marmots. Additionally, our differential analysis revealed significant differences in classification levels among the three different animal species, as well as variations in feeding habitats that resulted in distinct contributions from the host microbiome. Therefore, our data are valuable for monitoring and evaluating the impacts of the microbiome, as well as considering potential applications.
PubMed: 38674591
DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12040646 -
Foods (Basel, Switzerland) Apr 2024An amplicon metagenomic approach based on the ITS2 region of fungal rDNA was used to investigate the diversity of fungi associated with mature strawberries collected...
An amplicon metagenomic approach based on the ITS2 region of fungal rDNA was used to investigate the diversity of fungi associated with mature strawberries collected from a volcanic orchard and open-air market stands. Based on the Kruskal-Wallis test, no statistically significant differences were observed in both non-phylogenetic and phylogenetic alpha diversity indices. According to beta diversity analyses, significant differences in fungal communities were found between groups (orchard vs. market). Taxonomic assignment of amplicon sequence variables (ASVs) revealed 7 phyla and 31 classes. The prevalent fungal phyla were (29.59-84.58%), (15.33-70.40%), and Fungi-phy-Insertae-sedis (0.45-2.89%). The most predominant classes among the groups were in the market group, and and in the orchard group. Based on the analysis of microbiome composition (ANCOM), we found that the most differentially fungal genera were , , and Endophytic yeasts were prevalent in both groups, while was detected in fruits originating only from the market. In addition, (relative abundance varying from 1.7% to 21.18%) and (relative abundance varying from 1.58% to 16.55%) were detected in all samples regardless of origin, while was detected in samples from the market only, their relative abundance varying with the sample (from 0.80% to 19.23%). Their role in fruit quality and safety has not been yet documented. Moreover, several clinically related yeasts, such as and , were detected in samples only from the market. Understanding the variety and makeup of the mycobiome in ripe fruits during the transition from the orchard to the market is crucial for fruit safety after harvest.
PubMed: 38672848
DOI: 10.3390/foods13081175 -
Dentistry Journal Apr 2024Numerous studies have proven the important role of the oral microbiota in health and disease. The dysfunctionality of the oral microbiota, known as dysbiosis, is... (Review)
Review
Numerous studies have proven the important role of the oral microbiota in health and disease. The dysfunctionality of the oral microbiota, known as dysbiosis, is incriminated in dental caries, periodontal disease, oral infectious diseases, oral cancer, and systemic disease. The lesser-known component of the oral microbiota, the mycobiota, is now assiduously investigated. Recent technological developments have helped foster the identification of new fungal species based on genomic research. Next-generation sequencing has expanded our knowledge about the diversity, architecture, and relationships of oral microorganisms within the oral cavity. The mycobiome structure and relationships with the bacteriome have been studied to identify a mycobiotic signature. This review aimed to emphasize the latest knowledge of the oral mycobiome.
PubMed: 38668027
DOI: 10.3390/dj12040115 -
Journal of Fungi (Basel, Switzerland) Apr 2024The checklist serves as an informative method for evaluating the diversity, geography, and ecology of established and reproducing macrofungi. Additionally, considering...
The checklist serves as an informative method for evaluating the diversity, geography, and ecology of established and reproducing macrofungi. Additionally, considering macrofungi as bioindicator species, their census should be incorporated into efforts to monitor the state of health of ecosystems and directly applied to conservation policies. Between 2019 and 2023, a census of macrofungal species was conducted in Taburno-Camposauro Regional Park (Campania, Italy) across nine distinct habitats. A total of 453 fungal taxa were identified, including several new records for the Campania region. The fungal diversity exhibited significant variations based on the dominant plant species in each habitat. Fagacean tree species and spp. shared similar fungal communities. Equally, coniferous tree species displayed a comparable fungal composition. In and mixed broad-leaved forests, low levels of ectomycorrhizal taxa were observed alongside a concurrent increase in saprotrophs, indicating a disturbed habitat and a reduction in the Gadgil effect. Notably, lower fungal diversity was documented in the grassland habitat, suggesting the potential implications of wildlife imbalance and excessive grazing. The provided checklist constitutes a valuable resource for local management authorities, providing insights to formulate specific management policies.
PubMed: 38667946
DOI: 10.3390/jof10040275 -
Journal of Fungi (Basel, Switzerland) Mar 2024() infections represent a serious health risk for people affected by inflammatory bowel disease. An important fungal virulence factor is the capacity of the fungus to...
() infections represent a serious health risk for people affected by inflammatory bowel disease. An important fungal virulence factor is the capacity of the fungus to form on the colonized surface of the host. This research study aimed to determine the effect of a and co-infection on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. The colitis severity was evaluated using histology and a colonoscopy. The mice were mono-inoculated with or or co-challenged with both species. The mice were administered 3% DSS to induce acute colitis. The biofilm activity was assessed using (2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-5-[(phenylamino)carbonyl] 2H-tetrazoliumhydroxide (XTT) and dry-weight assays. The abundance of in the colon tissues was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The co-challenged mice showed a decreased colitis severity compared to the mono-inoculated mice. The dry-weight assay demonstrated a marked decrease in biofilm production in a culture incubated with supernatant. Immunohistochemical staining showed that was more abundant in the mucosa of mono-inoculated mice compared to the co-inoculated group. These data indicate an antagonistic microbial interaction between the two species, where may produce molecules capable of limiting the ability of to adhere to the host intestinal surface, leading to a reduction in biofilm formation.
PubMed: 38667916
DOI: 10.3390/jof10040245 -
Journal of Fungi (Basel, Switzerland) Mar 2024Viticulture worldwide is challenged by grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs). Involvement of arthropods in the dissemination process of GTD pathogens, notably esca pathogens,...
Viticulture worldwide is challenged by grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs). Involvement of arthropods in the dissemination process of GTD pathogens, notably esca pathogens, is indicated after detection of associated pathogens on arthropod exoskeletons, and demonstration of transmission under artificial conditions. The present study is the first to quantify spore loads via qPCR of the esca-relevant pathogen on arthropods collected in German vineyards, i.e., European earwigs (), ants (), and two species of jumping spiders ( and ). Quantification of spore loads showed acquisition on exoskeletons, but most arthropods carried only low amounts. The mycobiome on earwig exoskeletons was described for the first time to reveal involvement of earwigs in the dispersal of GTDs in general. Metabarcoding data support the potential risk of earwigs as vectors for predominantly and possibly (causative agent of Eutypa dieback), as respective operational taxonomical unit (OTU) assigned genera had relative abundances of 6.6% and 2.8% in total reads, even though with great variation between samples. Seven further GTD-related genera were present at a very low level. As various factors influence the successful transmission of GTD pathogens, we hypothesize that arthropods might irregularly act as direct vectors. Our results highlight the importance of minimizing and protecting pruning wounds in the field.
PubMed: 38667908
DOI: 10.3390/jof10040237 -
Frontiers in Cellular and Infection... 2024The role of the oral microbiota in the overall health and in systemic diseases has gained more importance in the recent years, mainly due to the systemic effects that... (Review)
Review
The role of the oral microbiota in the overall health and in systemic diseases has gained more importance in the recent years, mainly due to the systemic effects that are mediated by the chronic inflammation caused by oral diseases, such as periodontitis, through the microbial communities of the mouth. The chronic infection by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) interacts at the tissue level (e.g. gut, genital tract, brain) to create reservoirs; the modulation of the gut microbiota by HIV infection is a good example of these interactions. The purpose of the present review is to assess the state of knowledge on the oral microbiota (microbiome, mycobiome and virome) of HIV-infected patients in comparison to that of HIV-negative individuals and to discuss the reciprocal influence of HIV infection and oral microbiota in patients with periodontitis on the potential establishment of a viral gingival reservoir. The influence of different clinical and biological parameters are reviewed including age, immune and viral status, potent antiretroviral therapies, smoking, infection of the airway and viral coinfections, all factors that can modulate the oral microbiota during HIV infection. The analysis of the literature proposed in this review indicates that the comparisons of the available studies are difficult due to their great heterogeneity. However, some important findings emerge: (i) the oral microbiota is less influenced than that of the gut during HIV infection, although some recurrent changes in the microbiome are identified in many studies; (ii) severe immunosuppression is correlated with altered microbiota and potent antiretroviral therapies correct partially these modifications; (iii) periodontitis constitutes a major factor of dysbiosis, which is exacerbated in HIV-infected patients; its pathogenesis can be described as a reciprocal reinforcement of the two conditions, where the local dysbiosis present in the periodontal pocket leads to inflammation, bacterial translocation and destruction of the supporting tissues, which in turn enhances an inflammatory environment that perpetuates the periodontitis cycle. With the objective of curing viral reservoirs of HIV-infected patients in the future years, it appears important to develop further researches aimed at defining whether the inflamed gingiva can serve of viral reservoir in HIV-infected patients with periodontitis.
Topics: Humans; HIV Infections; Microbiota; Gingiva; Mouth; Disease Reservoirs; Periodontitis; Virome; Dysbiosis; Anti-Retroviral Agents; HIV
PubMed: 38660490
DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1364002 -
PloS One 2024Fungi are among key actors in the biogeochemical processes occurring in mangrove ecosystems. In this study, we investigated the changes of fungal communities in selected...
Fungi are among key actors in the biogeochemical processes occurring in mangrove ecosystems. In this study, we investigated the changes of fungal communities in selected mangrove species by exploring differences in diversity, structure and the degree of ecological rearrangement occurring within the rhizospheres of four mangrove species (Sonneratia alba, Rhizophora mucronata, Ceriops tagal and Avicennia marina) at Gazi Bay and Mida Creek in Kenya. Alpha diversity investigation revealed that there were no significant differences in species diversity between the same mangrove species in the different sites. Rather, significant differences were observed in fungal richness for some of the mangrove species. Chemical parameters of the mangrove sediment significantly correlated with fungal alpha diversity and inversely with richness. The fungal community structure was significantly differentiated by mangrove species, geographical location and chemical parameters. Taxonomic analysis revealed that 96% of the amplicon sequence variants belonged to the Phylum Ascomycota, followed by Basidiomycota (3%). Predictive FUNGuild and co-occurrence network analysis revealed that the fungal communities in Gazi Bay were metabolically more diverse compared to those of Mida Creek. Overall, our results demonstrate that anthropogenic activities influenced fungal richness, community assembly and their potential ecological functions in the mangrove ecosystems investigated.
Topics: Ecosystem; Rhizosphere; Mycobiome; Kenya; Bays
PubMed: 38635689
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298237 -
Microbiology Spectrum May 2024Microorganisms are a crucial component of lake ecosystems and significant contributors to biogeochemical cycles. However, the understanding of how primary microorganism...
Microorganisms are a crucial component of lake ecosystems and significant contributors to biogeochemical cycles. However, the understanding of how primary microorganism groups (e.g., bacteria and fungi) are distributed and constructed within different lake habitats is lacking. We investigated the bacterial and fungal communities of Hulun Lake using high-throughput sequencing techniques targeting 16S rRNA and Internal Transcribed Spacer 2 genes, including a range of ecological and statistical methodologies. Our findings reveal that environmental factors have high spatial and temporal variability. The composition and community structures vary significantly depending on differences in habitats. Variance partitioning analysis showed that environmental and geographical factors accounted for <20% of the community variation. Canonical correlation analysis showed that among the environmental factors, temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen had strong control over microbial communities. However, the microbial communities (bacterial and fungal) were primarily controlled by the dispersal limitations of stochastic processes. This study offers fresh perspectives regarding the maintenance mechanism of bacterial and fungal biodiversity in lake ecosystems, especially regarding the responses of microbial communities under identical environmental stress.IMPORTANCELake ecosystems are an important part of the freshwater ecosystem. Lake microorganisms play an important role in material circulation and energy flow owing to their unique enzymatic and metabolic capacity. In this study, we observed that bacterial and fungal communities varied widely in the water and sediments of Hulun Lake. The primary factor affecting their formation was identified as dispersal limitation during stochastic processes. Environmental and geographical factors accounted for <20% of the variation in bacterial and fungal communities, with pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen being important environmental factors. Our findings provide new insights into the responses of bacteria and fungi to the environment, shed light on the ecological processes of community building, and deepen our understanding of lake ecosystems. The results of this study provide a reference for lake management and conservation, particularly with respect to monitoring and understanding microbial communities in response to environmental changes.
Topics: Lakes; Fungi; Bacteria; Microbiota; Biodiversity; Ecosystem; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S; Stochastic Processes; Mycobiome; Temperature; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; China
PubMed: 38602397
DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03245-23 -
PloS One 2024Pneumocytis jirovecii infection in preterm newborns has recently been associated with neonatal respiratory distress syndrome and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Changes in...
BACKGROUND
Pneumocytis jirovecii infection in preterm newborns has recently been associated with neonatal respiratory distress syndrome and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Changes in the bacterial microbiota of the airways have also been described in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. However, until now there has been no information on the airway mycobiota in newborns. The purpose of this study was to describe the airway mycobiota in term and preterm newborns and its possible association with respiratory distress syndrome.
METHODS
Twenty-six matched preterm newborns with and without respiratory distress syndrome were studied, as well as 13 term babies. The identification of the fungal microbiota was carried out using molecular procedures in aspirated nasal samples at birth.
RESULTS
The ascomycota phylum was identified in 89.7% of newborns, while the basidiomycota phylum was found in 33.3%. Cladosporium was the predominant genus in both term and preterm infants 38.4% vs. 73% without statistical differences. Candida sake and Pneumocystis jirovecii were only found in preterm infants, suggesting a potential relationship with the risk of prematurity.
CONCLUSIONS
This is the first report to describe the fungal microbiota of the airways in term and preterm infants with and without respiratory distress syndrome. Although no differences have been observed, the number of cases analyzed could be small to obtain conclusive results, and more studies are needed to understand the role of the fungal microbiota of the airways in neonatal respiratory pathology.
Topics: Infant; Infant, Newborn; Humans; Infant, Premature; Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia; Mycobiome; Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn; Pneumocystis carinii
PubMed: 38598489
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302027