Applied Biosciences

Escherichia coli is a major pathogen responsible for urinary tract infections, septicemia, and other clinically relevant conditions, with increasing multidrug resistance (MDR) limiting available treatment options. In this context, bacteriophages represent a valuable resource for exploring novel antimicrobial and biotechnological tools. Here, we report the isolation and genomic characterization of BorMax, a novel lytic phage infecting multiple MDR E. coli. Transmission electron microscopy revealed a tailed morphology consistent with Dhillonvirus. Whole genome sequencing and de novo assembly showed a linear double-stranded DNA genome of 45,502 bp, encoding 70 predicted coding sequences (CDSs) and lacking tRNAs. Bioinformatic analyses confirmed the absence of lysogeny-associated genes, as well as virulence and antimicrobial resistance determinants. Comparative genomics using classified BorMax within the genus Dhillonvirus as a new species, sharing <77% intergenomic similarity with known members. Notably, predictions using PaCRISPR and AcRanker identified four CDSs with strong anti-CRISPR (Acr) potential, representing previously undescribed Acr candidates in this group. These genomic features highlight the novelty, safety, and potential biotechnological relevance of BorMax and contribute to the expanding genomic and functional diversity of Dhillonvirus and E. coli-infecting phages.

The heat shock protein 60 (Hsp60) is a highly conserved molecular chaperonin belonging to the chaperone system, a complex network that maintains proteostasis and regulates numerous cellular processes beyond protein folding. Initially described as a mitochondrial protein essential for the folding of newly imported polypeptides, Hsp60 is now recognized as a multifunctional molecule. Its expression, localization, and post-translational modifications dynamically influence cell fate and tissue homeostasis. Alterations in Hsp60 quantity, structure, or distribution underlie a heterogeneous group of disorders known as chaperonopathies, which may occur “by defect,” “by excess,” or “by mistake” (also called “by collaborationism”). Genetic Hsp60’s chaperonopathies are associated with rare neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, whereas acquired forms contribute to widespread conditions, including autoimmune, inflammatory, and malignant pathologies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of Hsp60 biology across human systems, emphasizing its structural plasticity, context-dependent functions, and dual role in health as both a biomarker and a therapeutic target. The emerging paradigm of chaperonotherapy, encompassing positive strategies to restore protective chaperones and negative strategies to inhibit pathogenic ones, highlights the translational potential of targeting Hsp60. Understanding the molecular mechanisms governing its activity will be essential for developing precision medicine approaches aimed at modulating the chaperone system in human disease.

Probiotics, whether consisting of a single strain or multiple strains, are attracting growing interest in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, their efficacy remains a matter of controversy and requires careful consideration. Accordingly, this meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy of single-strain to that of multi-strain probiotics supplementation on glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels in adults with T2DM. Nineteen articles published between 2017 and 2024 obtained from 4 databases (Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed) were included. These interventions, conducted in a total of 1159 participants, lasted from 6 to 24 weeks and were based on clearly identified probiotic formulations, with assessments of HbA1c and FBG. The results showed that, overall, probiotic supplementation had no significant effect on HbA1c (−0.24%; 95% CI [−0.76; 0.27]; p = 0.36), although a trend towards reduction was observed for single-strain formulations (−0.57%; p = 0.05). Regarding FBG, only the multi-strain group showed a significant reduction (−0.76; 95% CI [−1.18; −0.34]; p < 0.001), while the effect of the single-strain formulation was not significant. The comparison between the two formulations (Wald test) showed that there was no significant difference (p ≤ 0.05). However, high heterogeneity (I² > 75%) and variable strains/doses limit confidence in these findings.