Journal Description
Microorganisms
Microorganisms
is a scientific, peer-reviewed, open access journal of microbiology, published monthly online by MDPI. The Hellenic Society Mikrobiokosmos (MBK), the Spanish Society for Nitrogen Fixation (SEFIN) and the Society for Microbial Ecology and Disease (SOMED) are affiliated with the Microorganisms, and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, PubAg, CAPlus / SciFinder, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Microbiology) / CiteScore - Q2 (Microbiology (medical))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 15.1 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about the Microorganisms.
- Companion journal: Applied Microbiology.
Impact Factor:
4.5 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.8 (2022)
Latest Articles
Effects of Dietary Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SCAU-070 (Based on a Woody Plant-Based Diet) on Antioxidation, Immune and Intestinal Microbiota of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1049; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061049 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (BA) as one woody forage addition (as a probiotic, 1 × 107 CFU/g) on tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Woody forage is one kind of fishery feed that could significantly enhance the
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This study aimed to explore the effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (BA) as one woody forage addition (as a probiotic, 1 × 107 CFU/g) on tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Woody forage is one kind of fishery feed that could significantly enhance the growth, feed utilization, and digestibility of tilapia. At first, tilapia was divided into eight groups and fed with control, control + BA, Moringa oleifera, M. oleifera + BA, Neolamarckia cadamba, N. cadamba + BA, Broussonetia papyrifera, and B. papyrifera + BA diets, respectively. After dieting for 8 weeks, the intestinal morphology of tilapia in the eight groups was observed, and the effects of the B. amyloliquefaciens addition and wordy forage on the intestine functions were analyzed by two-way ANOVA. As no significant negative effects were found on the woody forage on tilapia, the villus height, density and width, and epithelial goblet cells in the posterior intestines of tilapia with BA supplementation were greater than those in the groups without BA supplementation, suggesting B. amyloliquefaciens SCAU-070 could promote the growth and development of tilapia intestinal tracts. Furthermore, it was found that B. amyloliquefaciens SCAU-070 enhanced the antioxidation capacity of tilapia posterior intestine tissue by promoting the activity of superoxide dismutase and content of malondialdehyde. In addition, the result of high-throughput sequencing (16S rDNA) showed that the beneficial bacteria Cetobacterium and Romboutsia in the probiotic groups increased significantly, while the potential pathogenic bacteria Acinetobacter decreased significantly.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beneficial Microorganisms in Aquaculture)
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Latent Tuberculosis Infection Is Associated with an Enrichment of Short-Chain Fatty Acid-Producing Bacteria in the Stool of Women Living with HIV
by
Suventha Moodley, Elouise Kroon, Charissa C. Naidoo, Georgina R. Nyawo, Benjamin G. Wu, Selisha Naidoo, Tinaye L. Chiyaka, Happy Tshivhula, Shivani Singh, Yonghua Li, Robin M. Warren, Eileen G. Hoal, Erwin Schurr, Jose C. Clemente, Leopoldo N. Segal, Marlo Möller and Grant Theron
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1048; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061048 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is common in people living with HIV (PLHIV) in high-TB-burden settings. Active TB is associated with specific stool taxa; however, little is known about the stool microbiota and LTBI in PLHIV. We characterised the stool microbiota of PLHIV with
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Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is common in people living with HIV (PLHIV) in high-TB-burden settings. Active TB is associated with specific stool taxa; however, little is known about the stool microbiota and LTBI in PLHIV. We characterised the stool microbiota of PLHIV with [interferon-γ release assay (IGRA)- and tuberculin skin test (TST)-positive] or without (IGRA- and TST-negative) LTBI (n = 25 per group). The 16S rRNA DNA sequences were analysed using QIIME2, Dirichlet-Multinomial Mixtures, DESeq2, and PICRUSt2. No α- or β-diversity differences occurred by LTBI status; however, LTBI-positive people were Faecalibacterium-, Blautia-, Gemmiger-, and Bacteroides-enriched and Moryella-, Atopobium-, Corynebacterium-, and Streptococcus-depleted. Inferred metagenome data showed that LTBI-negative-enriched pathways included several metabolite degradation pathways. Stool from LTBI-positive people demonstrated differential taxa abundance based on a quantitative response to antigen stimulation. In LTBI-positive people, older people had different β-diversities than younger people, whereas in LTBI-negative people, no differences occurred across age groups. Amongst female PLHIV, those with LTBI were, vs. those without LTBI, Faecalibacterium-, Blautia-, Gemmiger-, and Bacteriodes-enriched, which are producers of short-chain fatty acids. Taxonomic differences amongst people with LTBI occurred according to quantitative response to antigen stimulation and age. These data enhance our understanding of the microbiome’s potential role in LTBI.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Gut Microbiota on Human Health and Disease)
Open AccessArticle
Development of a Plant-Expressed Subunit Vaccine against Brucellosis
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Daria A. Rutkowska, Lissinda H. Du Plessis, Essa Suleman, Martha M. O’Kennedy, Deepak B. Thimiri Govinda Raj and Yolandy Lemmer
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1047; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061047 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Brucellosis is an important bacterial disease of livestock and the most common zoonotic disease. The current vaccines are effective but unsafe, as they result in animal abortions and are pathogenic to humans. Virus-like particles are being investigated as molecular scaffolds for foreign antigen
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Brucellosis is an important bacterial disease of livestock and the most common zoonotic disease. The current vaccines are effective but unsafe, as they result in animal abortions and are pathogenic to humans. Virus-like particles are being investigated as molecular scaffolds for foreign antigen presentation to the immune system. Here, we sought to develop a new-generation vaccine by presenting selected Brucella melitensis T cell epitopes on the surface of Orbivirus core-like particles (CLPs) and transiently expressing these chimeric particles in Nicotiana benthamiana plants. We successfully demonstrated the assembly of five chimeric CLPs in N. benthamiana plants, with each CLP presenting a different T cell epitope. The safety and protective efficacy of three of the highest-yielding CLPs was investigated in a mouse model of brucellosis. All three plant-expressed chimeric CLPs were safe when inoculated into BALB/c mice at specific antigen doses. However, only one chimeric CLP induced protection against the virulent Brucella strain challenge equivalent to the protection induced by the commercial Rev1 vaccine. Here, we have successfully shown the assembly, safety and protective efficacy of plant-expressed chimeric CLPs presenting B. melitensis T cell epitopes. This is the first step in the development of a safe and efficacious subunit vaccine against brucellosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Virology, Molecular Diagnostics and Vaccine Development)
Open AccessArticle
Molecular Analysis of Tick-Borne Bacterial Pathogens from Ticks Infesting Animal Hosts in Kyrgyzstan, 2021
by
Yu Jung Kim, Ji Ye Seo, Jin Seo Park, Seong Yoon Kim, Bekbolsun Aknazarov, Nurzina Atabekova and Hee Il Lee
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1046; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061046 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia in 494 engorged ticks collected from various animal hosts, including cattle, horses, sheep, chickens, dogs, and cats, in six regions of northern Kyrgyzstan. Ten tick species, belonging to two families and six genera, were
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This study investigated the prevalence of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia in 494 engorged ticks collected from various animal hosts, including cattle, horses, sheep, chickens, dogs, and cats, in six regions of northern Kyrgyzstan. Ten tick species, belonging to two families and six genera, were identified based on CO1, 16S rRNA, and ITS2 genes: Argas persicus (26.5%), Haemaphysalis punctata (18.0%), Dermacentor spp. (16.0%), Rhipicephalus annulatus (11.8%), R. turanicus (10.9%), D. marginatus (7.7%), Hyalomma scupense (4.5%), Hy. marginatum (3.8%), R. sangineus complex (0.6%), and Ornithodoros lahorensis (0.2%). PCR analysis revealed a 15.0% (74/494) overall infection rate of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia. Anaplasma species were found in six tick species and were identified as A. bovis (n = 44), Anaplasma spp. (n = 20), A. ovis (n = 5), and A. capra (n = 2). Ehrlichia species were found only in H. punctata (n = 5) and identified as E. chaffeensis (n = 1) and Ehrlichia spp. (n = 4). Additionally, two H. punctata were co-infected with Anaplasma and Ehrlichia. This is the first study to investigate tick-borne bacterial pathogens in ticks collected from animal hosts in Kyrgyzstan. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the epidemiology and emergence of tick-borne infections in Kyrgyzstan.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Parasitology)
Open AccessCommunication
In Vitro Assay Using Proboscidea parviflora W. and Phaseolus lunatus L. Plant Extracts to Control Pythium amazonianum
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Yisa María Ochoa Fuentes, Antonio Orozco Plancarte, Ernesto Cerna Chávez and Rocío de Jesús Díaz Aguilar
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1045; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061045 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Avocado tree wilt is a disease caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi Rands. Recently, this disease has been associated to Pythium amazonianum, another causal agent. Avocado tree wilt is being currently controlled with synthetic fungicides that kill beneficial microorganisms, polluting the environment and leading
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Avocado tree wilt is a disease caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi Rands. Recently, this disease has been associated to Pythium amazonianum, another causal agent. Avocado tree wilt is being currently controlled with synthetic fungicides that kill beneficial microorganisms, polluting the environment and leading to resistance problems in plant pathogens. The current research work aims to provide alternative management using extracts from Proboscidea parviflora W. and Phaseolus lunatus L. to control the development of mycelia in P. amazonianum in vitro. Raw extracts were prepared at UAAAN Toxicology Laboratory, determining the inhibition percentages, inhibition concentrations and inhibition lethal times. Several concentrations of the plant extracts were evaluated using the poisoned medium methodology, showing that both extracts control and inhibit mycelial development, in particular P. lutatus, which inhibits mycelial growth at concentrations lower than 80 mg/L, being lower than P. parviflora extracts. These extracts are promising candidates for excellent control of Pythium amazonianum.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Pathogenic Fungi: Genetics and Genomics)
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Open AccessArticle
The Role of Transplacental Infection in Leptospira spp. Epidemiology in Cattle in Caatinga Biome, Brazil
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Nathanael Natércio da Costa Barnabé, Rafael Rodrigues Soares, Deivyson Kelvis Silva Barros, João Pessoa Araújo Júnior, Camila Dantas Malossi, Maria Luana Cristiny Rodrigues Silva, Arthur Willian de Lima Brasil, Diego Figueiredo da Costa, Severino Silvano dos Santos Higino, Carolina de Sousa Américo Batista Santos, Sérgio Santos de Azevedo and Clebert José Alves
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1044; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061044 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Leptospirosis is an infectious disease that affects domestic animals, wild animals, and humans. It represents a public health problem and has an important economic impact on livestock. This study aims to investigate the importance of genital and transplacental infection in the epidemiology of
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Leptospirosis is an infectious disease that affects domestic animals, wild animals, and humans. It represents a public health problem and has an important economic impact on livestock. This study aims to investigate the importance of genital and transplacental infection in the epidemiology of leptospirosis in cows maintained in Caatinga biome conditions, Northeastern Brazil, as well as reporting organs colonized by Leptospira spp. in embryos and fetuses. Blood, urinary tract (urine, bladder, and kidney), and reproductive tract (vaginal fluid, uterus, uterine tube, ovary, and placenta) samples were collected from 15 slaughtered pregnant cows. Two embryos and 13 fetuses were sampled. Central nervous system and choroid ovoid samples were collected from embryos. Blood, central nervous system, lung, peritoneal liquid, abomasal content, liver, spleen, urine, bladder, kidney, and reproductive system samples were collected from fetuses. Diagnostic methods included the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) using a collection of 24 serovars belonging to 17 different pathogenic serogroups of five species as antigens, as well as polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies were found in 9 cows (60%), while 13 cows (86.67%) had at least one organ or urine with leptospiral DNA. No fetus was seroreactive. Among the embryos and fetuses, 13 (86.67%) presented leptospiral DNA, proving a high frequency of transplacental infection (100%). For cows, the most frequent biological materials regarding Leptospira spp. DNA detection were placenta (13 out of 15 samples; 86.7%), uterus (10 out of 15 samples; 66.7%), and vaginal fluid (5 out of 15 samples; 33.3%), while, for fetuses/embryos, the most frequent PCR-positive samples were choroid ovoid (1/2; 50%), spleen (6/13; 46.2%), kidney (5/13; 38.5%), and central nervous system (5/15; 33.3%). Sequenced samples based on the LipL32 gene presented 99% similarity with L. borgpetersenii. The results indicate that transplacental infection is an efficient way of spreading Leptospira spp. in cows maintained in Caatinga biome conditions. Therefore, prevention and control strategies must include actions that interrupt transmission through this alternative route.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology of Leptospira sp. Infection: Current Status, Insights and Future Prospects 2.0)
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Open AccessArticle
Whole Genome Sequencing Reveals Novel Insights about the Biocontrol Potential of Burkholderia ambifaria CF3 on Atractylodes lancea
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Yongxi Du, Tielin Wang, Chaogeng Lv, Binbin Yan, Xiufu Wan, Sheng Wang, Chuanzhi Kang, Lanping Guo and Luqi Huang
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1043; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061043 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Root rot caused by Fusarium spp. is the most destructive disease on Atractylodes lancea, one of the large bulks and most common traditional herbal plants in China. In this study, we isolated a bacterial strain, CF3, from the rhizosphere soil of A.
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Root rot caused by Fusarium spp. is the most destructive disease on Atractylodes lancea, one of the large bulks and most common traditional herbal plants in China. In this study, we isolated a bacterial strain, CF3, from the rhizosphere soil of A. lancea and determined its inhibitory effects on F. oxysporum in both in vitro and in vivo conditions. To deeply explore the biocontrol potential of CF3, we sequenced the whole genome and investigated the key pathways for the biosynthesis of many antibiotic compounds. The results revealed that CF3 is a member of Burkholderia ambifaria, harboring two chromosomes and one plasmid as other strains in this species. Five antibiotic compounds were found that could be synthesized due to the existence of the bio-synthesis pathways in the genome. Furthermore, the synthesis of antibiotic compounds should be confirmed by in vitro experiments and novel compounds should be purified and characterized in further studies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on Biological Control of Plant Disease or Microbial Interactions 2.0)
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Open AccessArticle
Mycophagous Mite, Tyrophagus putrescentiae, Prefers to Feed on Entomopathogenic Fungi, except Metarhizium Generalists
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Cuiyi Ou, Qichun Chen, Xiangyu Hu, Yuhao Zeng, Ke Zhang, Qiongbo Hu and Qunfang Weng
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1042; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061042 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: The mycophagous mite, Tyrophagus putrescentiae, was found to feed on entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) in our previous experiments, which seriously impacted the culture and preservation of fungal strains. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the biological characteristics of the occurrence and
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(1) Background: The mycophagous mite, Tyrophagus putrescentiae, was found to feed on entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) in our previous experiments, which seriously impacted the culture and preservation of fungal strains. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the biological characteristics of the occurrence and damage to EPF. (2) Methods: The mite’s growth and development and feeding preference were surveyed by comparative culture and observation; also, optical and electronic microscopies were employed. (3) Results: T. putrescentiae could survive normally after being fed on seven EPF species, including Purpureocillium lilacinum, Marquandii marquandii, Cordyceps fumosorosea, Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium flavoviride, Lecanicillium dimorphum, and Metacordyceps chlamydosporia. The first four fungi were the mite’s favorites with their greater feeding amount and shorter developmental duration. Interestingly, the mite could also feed on Metarhizium anisopliae and Metarhizium robertsii, but this led to the mite’s death. After feeding on M. anisopliae and M. robertsii, the mites began to die after 24 h, and the mortality rate reached 100% by 72 h. Observation under optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy revealed that the conidia of M. anisopliae and M. robertsii adhered to the mite’s surface, but there was no evidence of penetration or invasion. However, dissection observation indicated that the two Metarhizium species germinate and grow within the mite’s digestive tract, which implies that Metarhizium generalists with broad-spectrum hosts and the production of destruxins have acaricidal activity toward the mycophagous mites.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant Microbe Interactions)
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Open AccessArticle
Purpureocillium jiangxiense sp. nov.: Entomopathogenic Effects on Ostrinia furnacalis and Galleria mellonella
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Wei Chen, Yanhong Tang, Tongyi Liu, Hongwang Hu, Cuiyi Ou, Qiongbo Hu and Qunfang Weng
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1041; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061041 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The genus Purpureocillium is renowned for its role in biocontrol and biotechnological applications. The identification of new species within this genus is crucial for broadening our understanding of its ecological roles and potential utility in sustainable agriculture. This study aimed to characterize a
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The genus Purpureocillium is renowned for its role in biocontrol and biotechnological applications. The identification of new species within this genus is crucial for broadening our understanding of its ecological roles and potential utility in sustainable agriculture. This study aimed to characterize a new species of Purpureocillium, isolated from soil in eastern China, and to evaluate its bioactivity against Ostrinia furnacalis (corn moth) and Galleria mellonella (greater wax moth). We utilized morphological characterization; molecular phylogenetic analysis employing ITS, nrLSU, and tef1 genes; and bioactivity assays to identify and characterize the new species. The newly identified species, Purpureocillium jiangxiense sp. nov., displays unique morphological and genetic profiles compared to known species. Bioactivity tests showed that this species exhibits inhibitory effects against O. furnacalis and G. mellonella, highlighting its potential in biocontrol applications. By the ninth day at a spore concentration of 1 × 108 spores/mL, the mortality rate of the corn moth and greater wax moth reached 30% to 50% respectively. The discovery of P. jiangxiense sp. nov. adds to the genetic diversity known within this genus and offers a promising candidate for the development of natural biocontrol agents. It underscores the importance of continued biodiversity exploration and the potential for natural solutions in pest and disease management.
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(This article belongs to the Section Systems Microbiology)
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Open AccessArticle
A Study on the Effect of Various Media and the Supplementation of Organic Compounds on the Enhanced Production of Astaxanthin from Haematococcus lacustris (Girod—Chantrans) Rostafinski (Chlorophyta)
by
Vijay Rayamajhi, Yunji An, Huijeong Byeon, Jihyun Lee, Taesoo Kim, AhJung Choi, JongDae Lee, KwangSoo Lee, ChulHyun Kim, HyunWoung Shin and SangMok Jung
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1040; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061040 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Natural astaxanthin is in high demand due to its multiple health benefits. The microalga Haematococcus lacustris has been used for the commercial production of astaxanthin. In this study, we investigated the effects of six different media with and without a nitrogen source and
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Natural astaxanthin is in high demand due to its multiple health benefits. The microalga Haematococcus lacustris has been used for the commercial production of astaxanthin. In this study, we investigated the effects of six different media with and without a nitrogen source and supplementation with nine organic compounds on the growth and astaxanthin accumulation of H. lacustris. The highest astaxanthin contents were observed in cultures of H. lacustris in Jaworski’s medium (JM), with a level of 9.099 mg/L in JM with a nitrogen source supplemented with leucine (0.65 g/L) and of 20.484 mg/L in JM without a nitrogen source supplemented with sodium glutamate (0.325 g/L). Six of the nine organic compounds examined (leucine, lysine, alanine, sodium glutamate, glutamine, and cellulose) enhanced the production of astaxanthin in H. lacustris, while malic acid, benzoic acid, and maltose showed no beneficial effects.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosynthesis of Plant-Derived Bioactive Components by Photosynthetic Microorganisms)
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Open AccessCommunication
Association between Exposure to Leptospira spp. and Abortion in Mares in Croatia
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Iva Zečević, Mathieu Picardeau, Silvijo Vince, Suzana Hađina, Matko Perharić, Zrinka Štritof, Vladimir Stevanović, Iva Benvin, Nenad Turk, Ivana Lohman Janković and Josipa Habuš
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1039; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061039 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Leptospirosis is one of the most common zoonotic infections and a major problem in terms of both veterinary medicine and public health. However, the disease is under-recognised and under-diagnosed worldwide, particularly in horses. Clinical leptospirosis in horses is mainly associated with recurrent uveitis
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Leptospirosis is one of the most common zoonotic infections and a major problem in terms of both veterinary medicine and public health. However, the disease is under-recognised and under-diagnosed worldwide, particularly in horses. Clinical leptospirosis in horses is mainly associated with recurrent uveitis (ERU), which has recently been studied more intensively, and reproductive disorders, the epidemiology of which is still relatively poorly understood. To enhance our comprehension of abortions caused by leptospirosis in horses and to identify the causative strains, a serological study was carried out with subsequent molecular characterisation of the isolate obtained. Using the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), serum samples from mares that aborted and foetal fluids (when available) were tested for antibodies against Leptospira spp. Furthermore, bacteria isolation from kidney cultures was conducted. Of 97 mare serum samples, 21 (21.64%) tested positive, with Grippotyphosa and Pomona being the most frequently detected serogroups. A significantly higher seroprevalence was found in aborting mares compared to the healthy horse population from the same geographical area, as well as a pronounced seasonal variation. Leptospiral antibodies were not detected in any of the foetal fluids, but isolation was successful in 1 case out of 39 (2.56%). Genotyping by multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) identified the obtained isolate as Leptospira kirschneri, serogroup Pomona, serovar Mozdok. Further surveillance and molecular typing of Leptospira strains causing abortion in horses would be invaluable in understanding the prevalence and impact of leptospirosis on equine reproductive health in Europe.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology of Leptospira sp. Infection: Current Status, Insights and Future Prospects 2.0)
Open AccessReview
Bioplastic Production from Agri-Food Waste through the Use of Haloferax mediterranei: A Comprehensive Initial Overview
by
Angela Longo, Francesca Fanelli, Marianna Villano, Marco Montemurro and Carlo Giuseppe Rizzello
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1038; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061038 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The research on bioplastics (both biobased and biodegradable) is steadily growing and discovering environmentally friendly substitutes for conventional plastic. This review highlights the significance of bioplastics, analyzing, for the first time, the state of the art concerning the use of agri-food waste as
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The research on bioplastics (both biobased and biodegradable) is steadily growing and discovering environmentally friendly substitutes for conventional plastic. This review highlights the significance of bioplastics, analyzing, for the first time, the state of the art concerning the use of agri-food waste as an alternative substrate for biopolymer generation using Haloferax mediterranei.. H. mediterranei is a highly researched strain able to produce polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) since it can grow and produce bioplastic in high-salinity environments without requiring sterilization. Extensive research has been conducted on the genes and pathways responsible for PHB production using H. mediterranei to find out how fermentation parameters can be regulated to enhance cell growth and increase PHB accumulation. This review focuses on the current advancements in utilizing food waste as a substitute for costly substrates to reduce feedstock expenses. Specifically, it examines the production of biomass and the recovery of PHB from agri-food waste. Furthermore, it emphasizes the characterization of PHB and the significance of hydroxyvalerate (HV) abundance in the formation of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) copolymer. The downstream processing options are described, and the crucial factors associated with industrial scale-up are assessed, including substrates, bioreactors, process parameters, and bioplastic extraction and purification. Additionally, the economic implications of various options are discussed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Fermentation, Food and Food Sustainability)
Open AccessArticle
Lactobacillus rhamnosus PL1 and Lactobacillus plantarum PM1 Versus Placebo as Prophylaxis for Recurrence of Urinary Tract Infections in Children
by
Maria Daniel, Hanna Szymanik-Grzelak, Janusz Sierdziński and Małgorzata Pańczyk-Tomaszewska
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1037; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061037 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) rank among the most prevalent bacterial infections in children. Probiotics appear to reduce the risk of recurrence of UTIs. This study aimed to evaluate whether probiotics containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus PL1 and Lactobacillus plantarum PM1 therapy prevent UTIs in the
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Urinary tract infections (UTIs) rank among the most prevalent bacterial infections in children. Probiotics appear to reduce the risk of recurrence of UTIs. This study aimed to evaluate whether probiotics containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus PL1 and Lactobacillus plantarum PM1 therapy prevent UTIs in the pediatric population compared to a placebo. A superiority, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial was conducted. In total, 54 children aged 3–18 years with recurrent UTIs or ≥one acute pyelonephritis and ≥one risk factor of recurrence of UTIs were randomly assigned (27 patients in each arm) to a 90-day probiotic or placebo arm. The age, sex, diagnosis, renal function, risk factors, and etiology of UTIs did not vary between the groups. During the intervention, 26% of children taking the probiotic had episodes of UTI, and it was not significantly less than in the placebo group. The number of UTI episodes during the intervention and the follow-up period decreased significantly in both groups, but the difference between them was insignificant. We observed a decrease in UTIs during the study of almost 50% in the probiotic group compared to the placebo group. Probiotics can be used as natural, safe prophylaxis for children with risk factors for UTIs in whom antibiotic prevention is not indicated.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Probiotics on Health, 2nd Edition)
Open AccessArticle
The Probiotic Strain Lactobacillus acidophilus CL1285 Reduces Fat Deposition and Oxidative Stress and Increases Lifespan in Caenorhabditis elegans
by
Samir Bouasker, Sonja Nodland and Mathieu Millette
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1036; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061036 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Caenorhabditis elegans was recently shown to be a powerful model for studying and identifying probiotics with specific functions. Lactobacillus acidophilus CL1285, Lacticaseibacillus casei LBC80R, and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus CLR2, which are three bacteria that were marketed by Bio-K+, were evaluated using the nematode C. elegans
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Caenorhabditis elegans was recently shown to be a powerful model for studying and identifying probiotics with specific functions. Lactobacillus acidophilus CL1285, Lacticaseibacillus casei LBC80R, and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus CLR2, which are three bacteria that were marketed by Bio-K+, were evaluated using the nematode C. elegans to study fat accumulation, lifespan, and resistance to oxidative stress. Although the general effects of probiotics in terms of protection against oxidative stress were highlighted, the CL1285 strain had an interesting and specific feature, namely its ability to prevent fat accumulation in nematodes; this effect was verified by both the Oil Red and Nile Red methods. This observed phenotype requires daf-16 and is affected by glucose levels. In addition, in a daf-16- and glucose-dependent manner, CL1285 extended the lifespan of C. elegans; this effect was unique to CL1285 and not found in the other L. acidophilus subtypes in this study. Our findings indicate that L. acidophilus CL1285 impacts fat/glucose metabolism in C. elegans and provides a basis to further study this probiotic, which could have potential health benefits in humans and/or in mammals.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Probiotic and Postbiotic Properties of Lactobacillus)
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Open AccessReview
Contemporary Insights into Hepatitis C Virus: A Comprehensive Review
by
Malik Sallam and Roaa Khalil
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1035; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061035 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a significant global health challenge. Approximately 50 million people were living with chronic hepatitis C based on the World Health Organization as of 2024, contributing extensively to global morbidity and mortality. The advent and approval of several direct-acting
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Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a significant global health challenge. Approximately 50 million people were living with chronic hepatitis C based on the World Health Organization as of 2024, contributing extensively to global morbidity and mortality. The advent and approval of several direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimens significantly improved HCV treatment, offering potentially high rates of cure for chronic hepatitis C. However, the promising aim of eventual HCV eradication remains challenging. Key challenges include the variability in DAA access across different regions, slightly variable response rates to DAAs across diverse patient populations and HCV genotypes/subtypes, and the emergence of resistance-associated substitutions (RASs), potentially conferring resistance to DAAs. Therefore, periodic reassessment of current HCV knowledge is needed. An up-to-date review on HCV is also necessitated based on the observed shifts in HCV epidemiological trends, continuous development and approval of therapeutic strategies, and changes in public health policies. Thus, the current comprehensive review aimed to integrate the latest knowledge on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic approaches, treatment options and preventive strategies for HCV, with a particular focus on the current challenges associated with RASs and ongoing efforts in vaccine development. This review sought to provide healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers with the necessary insights to address the HCV burden more effectively. We aimed to highlight the progress made in managing and preventing HCV infection and to highlight the persistent barriers challenging the prevention of HCV infection. The overarching goal was to align with global health objectives towards reducing the burden of chronic hepatitis, aiming for its eventual elimination as a public health threat by 2030.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Public Health Microbiology)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Altitude Gradients on the Spatial Distribution Mechanism of Soil Bacteria in Temperate Deciduous Broad-Leaved Forests
by
Wenxin Liu, Shengqian Guo, Huiping Zhang, Yun Chen, Yizhen Shao and Zhiliang Yuan
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1034; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061034 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Soil bacteria are an important part of the forest ecosystem, and they play a crucial role in driving energy flow and material circulation. Currently, many uncertainties remain about how the composition and distribution patterns of bacterial communities change along altitude gradients, especially in
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Soil bacteria are an important part of the forest ecosystem, and they play a crucial role in driving energy flow and material circulation. Currently, many uncertainties remain about how the composition and distribution patterns of bacterial communities change along altitude gradients, especially in forest ecosystems with strong altitude gradients in climate, vegetation, and soil properties. Based on dynamic site monitoring of the Baiyun Mountain Forest National Park (33°38′–33°42′ N, 111°47′–111°51′ E), this study used Illumina technology to sequence 120 soil samples at the site and explored the spatial distribution mechanisms and ecological processes of soil bacteria under different altitude gradients. Our results showed that the composition of soil bacterial communities varied significantly between different altitude gradients, affecting soil bacterial community building by influencing the balance between deterministic and stochastic processes; in addition, bacterial communities exhibited broader ecological niche widths and a greater degree of stochasticity under low-altitude conditions, implying that, at lower altitudes, community assembly is predominantly influenced by stochastic processes. Light was the dominant environmental factor that influenced variation in the entire bacterial community as well as other taxa across different altitude gradients. Moreover, changes in the altitude gradient could cause significant differences in the diversity and community composition of bacterial taxa. Our study revealed significant differences in bacterial community composition in the soil under different altitude gradients. The bacterial communities at low elevation gradients were mainly controlled by stochasticity processes, and bacterial community assembly was strongly influenced by deterministic processes at middle altitudes. Furthermore, light was an important environmental factor that affects differences. This study revealed that the change of altitude gradient had an important effect on the development of the soil bacterial community and provided a theoretical basis for the sustainable development and management of soil bacteria.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Soil Microbial Ecology)
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Colonic Microbiota Improves Fiber Digestion Ability and Enhances Absorption of Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Local Pigs of Hainan
by
Pengxiang Xue, Mingming Xue, Yabiao Luo, Qiguo Tang, Feng Wang, Ruiping Sun, Yanxia Song, Zhe Chao and Meiying Fang
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1033; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061033 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Compared to commercial breeds, Chinese local pig breeds have a greater ability to digest dietary fiber, which may be due to differences in intestinal microbiota. In this study, we fed Ding’an and DLY pigs high and low levels of dietary fiber, respectively, to
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Compared to commercial breeds, Chinese local pig breeds have a greater ability to digest dietary fiber, which may be due to differences in intestinal microbiota. In this study, we fed Ding’an and DLY pigs high and low levels of dietary fiber, respectively, to investigate factors contributing to high dietary fiber adaption in Ding’an pigs. Twelve Ding’an pigs and DLY pigs were randomly divided into a 2 (diet) × 2 (breed) factorial experiment (n = 3). Compared with commercial pigs, Ding’an pigs have a stronger ability to digest dietary fiber. Prevotella was more prevalent in Ding’an pigs than in DLY pigs, which may be an important reason for the stronger ability of fiber degradation in Ding’an pigs. When the effects of feed and breed factors are considered, differences in abundance of 31 species and 14 species, respectively, may result in a greater ability of fiber degradation in Ding’an pigs. Among them, Prevotella. sp. CAG:520 may be a newly discovered bacterium related to fiber degradation, which positively correlated with many fiber-degrading bacteria (r > 0.7). We also found that the concentration of plant metabolites with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects was higher in the colonic chyme of Ding’an pigs after increasing the fiber content, which resulted in the downregulated expression of inflammatory factors in colonic mucosa. Spearman’s correlation coefficient revealed a strong correlation between microbiota and the apparent digestibility of dietary fiber (r > 0.7). The mRNA expressions of SLC16A1, PYY, and GCG were significantly increased in the colonic mucosa of Ding’an pigs fed on high-fiber diets, which indicates that Ding’an pigs have an enhanced absorption of SCFAs. Our results suggested that an appropriate increase in dietary fiber content can reduce the inflammatory response and improve feed efficiency in Ding’an pigs, and differences in the intestinal microbial composition may be an important reason for the difference in the fiber degradation capacity between the two breeds of pigs.
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(This article belongs to the Section Microbiomes)
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Identifying Mortality Predictors in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients: Insights from a Single-Center Retrospective Study at a University Hospital
by
Ondrej Zahornacky, Alena Rovnakova, Maria Surimova, Stefan Porubcin and Pavol Jarcuska
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12051032 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: The pandemic instigated by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has led to over 7 million deaths globally, primarily attributable to viral pneumonia. Identifying fundamental markers associated with an elevated risk of mortality can aid in the early identification of patients prone to disease progression
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Introduction: The pandemic instigated by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has led to over 7 million deaths globally, primarily attributable to viral pneumonia. Identifying fundamental markers associated with an elevated risk of mortality can aid in the early identification of patients prone to disease progression to a severe state, enabling prompt intervention. Methods: This was a single-center, retrospective study. Results: In this study, we examined 299 patients admitted to the Department of Infectology and Travel Medicine in Košice, Slovakia, with PCR-confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia. Patients were monitored from 1 January 2021 to 31 March 2021, with the endpoint being discharge from the hospital or death. All patient-related data were retrospectively collected from medical records. This study identified several risk factors significantly associated with an increased risk of mortality, including the requirement of HFNO (p < 0.001), age over 60 years (p < 0.001), Ne/Ly values of >6 (p < 0.001), as well as certain lymphocyte subtypes—CD4+ < 0.2 × 109/L (p = 0.035), CD8+ < 0.2 × 109/L (p < 0.001), and CD19+ < 0.1 × 109/L (p < 0.001)—alongside selected biochemical inflammatory markers—IL-6 > 50 ng/L (p < 0.001) and lactate > 3 mmol/L (p < 0.001). Conclusions: We confirmed that the mentioned risk factors were significantly associated with the death of patients from viral pneumonia in the hospital.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in SARS-CoV-2 Infection—Third Edition)
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Expanding the Spectrum of Diseases and Disease Associations Caused by Edwardsiella tarda and Related Species
by
J. Michael Janda and Muhammed Duman
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 1031; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12051031 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
The genus Edwardsiella, previously residing in the family Enterobacteriaceae and now a member of the family Hafniaceae, is currently composed of five species, although the taxonomy of this genus is still unsettled. The genus can primarily be divided into two pathogenic
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The genus Edwardsiella, previously residing in the family Enterobacteriaceae and now a member of the family Hafniaceae, is currently composed of five species, although the taxonomy of this genus is still unsettled. The genus can primarily be divided into two pathogenic groups: E. tarda strains are responsible for almost all human infections, and two other species (E. ictaluri, E. piscicida) cause diseases in fish. Human infections predominate in subtropical habitats of the world and in specific geospatial regions with gastrointestinal disease, bloodborne infections, and wound infections, the most common clinical presentations in decreasing order. Gastroenteritis can present in many different forms and mimic other intestinal disturbances. Chronic gastroenteritis is not uncommon. Septicemia is primarily found in persons with comorbid conditions including malignancies and liver disease. Mortality rates range from 9% to 28%. Most human infections are linked to one of several risk factors associated with freshwater or marine environments such as seafood consumption. In contrast, edwardsiellosis in fish is caused by two other species, in particular E. ictaluri. Both E. ictaluri and E. piscicida can cause massive outbreaks of disease in aquaculture systems worldwide, including enteric septicemia in channel catfish and tilapia. Collectively, these species are increasingly being recognized as important pathogens in clinical and veterinary medicine. This article highlights and provides a current perspective on the taxonomy, microbiology, epidemiology, and pathogenicity of this increasingly important group.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microorganisms and Diseases Associated with Aquatic Animals 2.0)
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Characteristics of Vaginal Microbiota of Women of Reproductive Age with Infections
by
Wanting Dong, Siyi Wang, Xi Wang, Guojin Xu, Qiuying Liu, Zheng Li, Na Lv, Yuanlong Pan, Qian Xiong, Donglai Liu and Baoli Zhu
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 1030; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12051030 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
The vaginal microbiota can be classified into five major community state types (CSTs) based on the bacterial content. However, the link between different CST subtypes and vaginal infection remains unclear. Here, we analyzed 2017 vaginal microbiota samples from women of a reproductive age
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The vaginal microbiota can be classified into five major community state types (CSTs) based on the bacterial content. However, the link between different CST subtypes and vaginal infection remains unclear. Here, we analyzed 2017 vaginal microbiota samples from women of a reproductive age with vaginal infections that were published in the last decade. We found that L. iners was the most dominant in 34.8% of the vaginal samples, followed by L. crispatus (21.2%). CST I was common in healthy individuals, whereas CST III and IV were associated with dysbiosis and infection. CST III-B, IV-A, IV-B, and IV-C0 were prevalent in patients with bacterial vaginosis (BV). Based on the relative abundance of bacteria at the (sub)genus level, a random forest classifier was developed to predict vaginal infections with an area under the curve of 0.83. We further identified four modules of co-occurring bacterial taxa: L. crispatus, Gardnerella, Prevotella, and Bacteroides. The functional prediction revealed that nucleotide biosynthesis pathways were upregulated in patients with human papilloma virus, and carbohydrate degradation pathways were downregulated in patients with BV. Overall, our study identified the bacterial signatures of healthy and infected vaginal microbiota, providing unique insights into the clinical diagnosis and health status prediction of women of a reproductive age.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaginal Microbiome in Women's Health)
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