Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Applied Biosciences applbiosci	4.3	5.3	2022	25.3 Days	CHF 1200	Submit
Applied Microbiology applmicrobiol	-	3.6	2021	16.4 Days	CHF 1200	Submit
International Journal of Molecular Sciences ijms	5.6	10.0	2000	17.5 Days	CHF 2900	Submit
Microbiology Research microbiolres	2.5	3.5	2010	18.8 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Microorganisms microorganisms	4.7	8.2	2013	16.5 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
Veterinary Sciences vetsci	2.7	3.9	2014	16.3 Days	CHF 2100	Submit

17 pages, 7822 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characteristics of the Tongue Coating Microbiome and Its Subtype Differences in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

by Jiaxin Shen, Xing Yu, Jinni Xu, Zhihua Zheng and Weiwei Zheng

Microorganisms 2026, 14(6), 1381; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14061381 - 22 Jun 2026

Viewed by 319

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with microbial dysbiosis, yet subtype-specific alterations in the tongue-coating microbiome remain insufficiently characterized. In this cross-sectional study, tongue-coating samples from 158 participants (94 healthy controls [HC], 19 ulcerative colitis [UC] patients, and 45 Crohn’s disease [CD] patients) [...] Read more.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with microbial dysbiosis, yet subtype-specific alterations in the tongue-coating microbiome remain insufficiently characterized. In this cross-sectional study, tongue-coating samples from 158 participants (94 healthy controls [HC], 19 ulcerative colitis [UC] patients, and 45 Crohn’s disease [CD] patients) were analyzed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. We compared alpha and beta diversity, taxonomic composition, differential taxa, exploratory random-forest feature rankings, and SPIEC-EASI co-occurrence networks. Species richness did not differ significantly among groups, whereas Shannon and Simpson indices were lower in UC than in HC and CD. Bray–Curtis and Jaccard ordinations showed significant but partially overlapping community differences among the three groups. UC was characterized by enrichment of Proteobacteria, Neisseria, and Porphyromonass (p < 0.001), whereas CD showed higher relative abundances of Prevotella, Veillonella, Leptotrichia, and TM7x. Random forest and LEfSe analyses yielded concordant candidate discriminative taxa, but no independent validation cohort was available. Network analysis suggested group-specific co-occurrence patterns, with results interpreted as statistical associations rather than direct microbial interactions. These findings support the presence of subtype-associated tongue-coating dysbiosis in IBD and identify candidate taxa for future validation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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14 pages, 2039 KB

Open AccessArticle

Isolation and Characterization of Yeast-like and Filamentous Fungi from Lutzomyia longipalpis (Lutz & Neiva, 1912)

by Lidiane da Silva Nascimento, Caroline da Silva Moraes, Rod James Dillon, Viv Maureen Dillon, Gisela Lara da Costa, Manoel Marques Evangelista Oliveira and Fernando Ariel Genta

Microbiol. Res. 2026, 17(6), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres17060110 - 5 Jun 2026

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Abstract

Leishmaniases are vector-borne diseases transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies. While bacterial associations in sand fly microbiota are well studied, fungal communities remain poorly characterized, despite their potential role in insect biology and parasite transmission. This study aimed to isolate and characterize yeast-like and [...] Read more.

Leishmaniases are vector-borne diseases transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies. While bacterial associations in sand fly microbiota are well studied, fungal communities remain poorly characterized, despite their potential role in insect biology and parasite transmission. This study aimed to isolate and characterize yeast-like and filamentous fungi from different developmental stages of Lutzomyia longipalpis, the main vector of visceral leishmaniasis in the Americas, to expand knowledge on fungal microbiota and its possible relevance to vector–parasite interactions. Sand fly eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults were sampled from a laboratory colony. Fungi were isolated from insect tissues and diets using culture-based methods. Morphological identification was complemented by partial sequencing of the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA region to identify the species. Four fungi were consistently recovered: Candida guilliermondii, Cutaneotrichosporon dermatis, Penicillium sp., and Aspergillus sp. Their presence varied across developmental stages. Presence in the gut was observed for Cu. dermatis, Penicillium sp. and Aspergillus sp. in larvae and C. guilliermondii in adult females. Evidence suggested their presence in different stages from larvae to pupae, and sex-specific differences in adults, with fungi detected only in females. This work documented the mycobiota that may be associated with L. longipalpis, including the first report of Cutaneotrichosporon in sand flies. These findings highlight fungi that may be potential modulators of sand fly biology and Leishmania development, warranting further investigation into their ecological and epidemiological roles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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19 pages, 3158 KB

Open AccessArticle

Longitudinal Assessment of the Canine Fecal Microbiota in Response to Dietary Hempseed By-Product and Oil: A 90-Day Nutritional Intervention Study

by Jutamat Klinsoda, Sasithorn Limsuwan, Witchayaporn Sornard, Pattarawadee Thamsatit and Natthasit Tansakul

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(6), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13060534 - 29 May 2026

Viewed by 847

Abstract

Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) derivatives are emerging as functional ingredients in companion animal nutrition; however, their long-term effects on the canine gut microbiome remain unclear. This exploratory study investigated the impact of dietary supplementation with two hempseed-based formulations (fiber-rich by-product vs. [...] Read more.

Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) derivatives are emerging as functional ingredients in companion animal nutrition; however, their long-term effects on the canine gut microbiome remain unclear. This exploratory study investigated the impact of dietary supplementation with two hempseed-based formulations (fiber-rich by-product vs. fat-rich oil coating) on the fecal microbiota of healthy adult dogs over 90 days. Twenty-four dogs were randomly assigned to control, hempseed by-product (11% inclusion), or hempseed oil (2% coating) diet groups. Fecal samples collected on days 0, 30, and 90 were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing to assess microbial composition and diversity. The hempseed oil group showed a distinguishable increase in species richness. Both hempseed-based diets were associated with compositional shifts in formulation-specific ways: the oil coating with a higher relative abundance of Lactobacillaceae (notably Ligilactobacillus), and the by-product with a higher relative abundance of Actinobacteriota (particularly Collinsella). Both treatments preserved several microbiota genera. Beta diversity analysis revealed significant temporal restructuring, with convergence toward a stabilized ecosystem by day 90. These findings demonstrate that hempseed fractions modulate the canine microbiome in a formulation-specific manner without disrupting ecological stability, supporting beneficial health effects in canine nutrition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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25 pages, 1616 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sand Quality on Portuguese Blue Flagged Beaches: Fungal and Faecal Contamination Across Two Bathing Seasons

by Ana Margarida Silva, Konstantina Sarioglou, Susana Silva, Carla Viegas, Edna Ribeiro, Maria Teresa Rebelo and João Brandão

Microorganisms 2026, 14(5), 1043; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14051043 - 5 May 2026

Viewed by 570

Abstract

There is growing concern about the quality of sand on beaches, as users tend to spend most of their time on the sand rather than in the water. Numerous pathogenic agents have reportedly been isolated from sand, including bacteria, nematodes and opportunistic fungi. [...] Read more.

There is growing concern about the quality of sand on beaches, as users tend to spend most of their time on the sand rather than in the water. Numerous pathogenic agents have reportedly been isolated from sand, including bacteria, nematodes and opportunistic fungi. The ability of sand to retain pollutants and facilitate the transmission of pathogens raises public health concerns. We analysed sand-monitoring data from the 2024 and 2025 bathing seasons on Blue Flag beaches to find trends and patterns in total fungal counts, enterococci, and E. coli. The values recorded for microorganisms showed considerable variability, which may reflect the possible combined influence of multiple climatic, environmental, and anthropogenic factors contributing to their presence in beach sand. Our findings suggest that the total fungal count on coastal beaches may be influenced by periods of rainfall, which increases the fungal load in the sand. Values recorded from inland beaches vary considerably between beaches which may reflect the influence of local environmental characteristics, particularly vegetation and beach morphology, although the smaller number of inland samples also makes it difficult to define clear patterns and consistent reference values for this parameter. Bacterial indicators may be particularly influenced by occasional anthropogenic disturbances and contamination events. This study adds significantly to the understanding of the microbiological quality of beach sand, encouraging the integration of sand monitoring into environmental surveillance and management programmes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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25 pages, 1253 KB

Open AccessReview

Gut Biome-Mediated Barriers to Nutrient Absorption: Investigating the Impact of Dysbiosis

by Anna H. Sandhu and Arun Radhakrishnan

Microbiol. Res. 2025, 16(11), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres16110241 - 14 Nov 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5910

Abstract

The gut microbiome is essential for nutrient absorption, immune function, and overall metabolic health. A balanced microbial community allows for the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals into maximally absorbed nutrients and provides protection against inflammation. Dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, disrupts [...] Read more.

The gut microbiome is essential for nutrient absorption, immune function, and overall metabolic health. A balanced microbial community allows for the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals into maximally absorbed nutrients and provides protection against inflammation. Dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, disrupts these processes and leads to malabsorption, barrier dysfunction, and toxic metabolite production. These imbalances contribute to a wide variety of diseases, from obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease to anemia, osteoporosis, and nervous system dysfunctions. Advances in sequencing, metabolomics, and functional assays have facilitated an enhanced understanding of the ecological and biochemical complexity of gut microbes. AI-based models are also providing new insights into personalized diet and therapeutic approaches. Through the redefinition of malnutrition and chronic disease within microbial ecology, science proves the potential for engineered probiotics, precision prebiotics, and gut-targeted therapies. These innovations hold the potential to improve global health and propel precision medicine in nutrition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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20 pages, 1239 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Initiation Age of Starter Feeding on Growth Performance, Immunity and Antioxidant Capacity, Gastrointestinal Development, and Microbial Communities in Suckling Lambs

by Shaoyang Pang, Xiangjian Peng, Shu Li, Junli Niu, Wenqi Wang, Yanfeng Liu, Cunxi Nie and Wenju Zhang

Microorganisms 2025, 13(11), 2490; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13112490 - 30 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 993

Abstract

The optimal timing for initiating starter feeding in lambs remains controversial, warranting a systematic evaluation of its effects across multiple indicators. This study investigated the effects of initiating starter feeding at 7, 14, or 21 days of age on growth performance, rumen fermentation, [...] Read more.

The optimal timing for initiating starter feeding in lambs remains controversial, warranting a systematic evaluation of its effects across multiple indicators. This study investigated the effects of initiating starter feeding at 7, 14, or 21 days of age on growth performance, rumen fermentation, serum immunity, gastrointestinal development, and microbiota in Hu lambs. Forty-five newborn lambs were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 15 per group) and fed starter until slaughter at weaning (60 days). The 14-day group exhibited significantly higher body weight (BW) at 49 and 60 days compared with the 7-day group (p < 0.05), and greater average daily gain (ADG) during 28–35 days than the 21-day group. Rumen ammonia nitrogen (NH₃-N), acetate, propionate, valerate, and total volatile fatty acids (VFAs) were higher in the 7-day and 14-day groups than in the 21-day group (p < 0.05). The 14-day group showed lower pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) and higher immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-2, IL-4) (p < 0.05). This group also displayed improved rumen papilla width, jejunal villus dimensions, and reduced crypt depth. Beneficial microbes such as Christensenellaceae_R-7_group and Butyrivibrio were enriched in the 14-day and 21-day groups. In conclusion, initiating starter feeding at 14 days of age optimizes growth, rumen function, immune response, and colonization of beneficial microbiota in Hu lambs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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31 pages, 698 KB

Open AccessReview

Mechanistic Role of Heavy Metals in Driving Antimicrobial Resistance: From Rhizosphere to Phyllosphere

by Rahul Kumar, Tanja P. Vasić, Sanja P. Živković, Periyasamy Panneerselvam, Gustavo Santoyo, Sergio de los Santos Villalobos, Adeyemi Nurudeen Olatunbosun, Aditi Pandit, Leonard Koolman, Debasis Mitra and Pankaj Gautam

Appl. Microbiol. 2025, 5(3), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/applmicrobiol5030079 - 4 Aug 2025

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5579

Abstract

Heavy metal pollution represents a pervasive environmental challenge that significantly exacerbates the ever-increasing crisis of antimicrobial resistance and the capacity of microorganisms to endure and proliferate despite antibiotic interventions. This review examines the intricate relationship between heavy metals and AMR, with an emphasis [...] Read more.

Heavy metal pollution represents a pervasive environmental challenge that significantly exacerbates the ever-increasing crisis of antimicrobial resistance and the capacity of microorganisms to endure and proliferate despite antibiotic interventions. This review examines the intricate relationship between heavy metals and AMR, with an emphasis on the underlying molecular mechanisms and ecological ramifications. Common environmental metals, including arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and lead, exert substantial selective pressures on microbial communities. These induce oxidative stress and DNA damage, potentially leading to mutations that enhance antibiotic resistance. Key microbial responses include the overexpression of efflux pumps that expel both metals and antibiotics, production of detoxifying enzymes, and formation of protective biofilms, all of which contribute to the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains. In the soil environment, particularly the rhizosphere, heavy metals disrupt plant–microbe interactions by inhibiting beneficial organisms, such as rhizobacteria, mycorrhizal fungi, and actinomycetes, thereby impairing nutrient cycling and plant health. Nonetheless, certain microbial consortia can tolerate and detoxify heavy metals through sequestration and biotransformation, rendering them valuable for bioremediation. Advances in biotechnology, including gene editing and the development of engineered metal-resistant microbes, offer promising solutions for mitigating the spread of metal-driven AMR and restoring ecological balance. By understanding the interplay between metal pollution and microbial resistance, we can more effectively devise strategies for environmental protection and public health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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12 pages, 788 KB

Open AccessArticle

Gut Microbial Composition on Dienogest Therapy in Patients with Endometriosis

by Veronika Pronina, Pavel Denisov, Vera Muravieva, Alexey Skorobogatiy, Ksenia Zhigalova, Galina Chernukha, Gennady Sukhikh and Tatiana Priputnevich

Microbiol. Res. 2025, 16(8), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres16080169 - 1 Aug 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3110

Abstract

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age, characterized by pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and infertility. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between gut microbiota dysbiosis and endometriosis pathogenesis, mediated through hormonal regulation, immune modulation, and systemic inflammation. [...] Read more.

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age, characterized by pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and infertility. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between gut microbiota dysbiosis and endometriosis pathogenesis, mediated through hormonal regulation, immune modulation, and systemic inflammation. Dienogest (DNG) is widely used for endometriosis management, but its effects on gut microbiota remain underexplored. This study investigates the impact of DNG on gut microbial composition in endometriosis patients, aiming to elucidate its therapeutic mechanisms beyond hormonal modulation. DNG therapy led to a significant reduction in the Bacillota/Bacteroidota ratio (p = 0.0421), driven by decreased Staphylococcus spp. (p = 0.0244) and increased commensal bacteria such as Lactobacillus spp. and Collinsella aerofaciens (p = 0.049). Species richness and alpha diversity indices showed a non-significant upward trend. Notably, C. aerofaciens, a butyrate producer linked to gut barrier integrity, was detected twice as frequently during therapy. The study also observed reductions in facultative anaerobes like Enterococcus spp. and a trend toward higher titers of beneficial Bacteroidota. This study provides the first evidence that DNG therapy modulates gut microbiota in endometriosis patients, favoring a composition associated with anti-inflammatory and barrier-protective effects. The observed shifts—reduced opportunistic pathogens and increased symbionts—suggest a novel mechanism for DNG’s efficacy, potentially involving the microbial regulation of estrogen metabolism and immune responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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19 pages, 1063 KB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Evaluation of a Gel Formulation with Postbiotics and Prebiotics Against Pathogenic Microorganisms Present in the Microbiota of Psoriatic Skin

by Nadine Gonçalves Mascarenhas, Vânia Rodrigues Leite-Silva, Márcio Adriano Andréo, Newton Andréo-Filho and Patricia Santos Lopes

Microbiol. Res. 2025, 16(7), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres16070134 - 23 Jun 2025

Viewed by 2290

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease. Although current treatments help manage the condition, many present limitations that affect patient adherence, particularly topical therapies. Given that the skin microbiota represents a promising therapeutic target, this study investigated the potential of prebiotics [...] Read more.

Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease. Although current treatments help manage the condition, many present limitations that affect patient adherence, particularly topical therapies. Given that the skin microbiota represents a promising therapeutic target, this study investigated the potential of prebiotics derived from β-glucans and postbiotics produced by Lactobacillus paracasei and Saccharomyces cerevisiae to modulate microbial balance; the in vitro activity was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus and Malassezia furfur, both as isolated compounds and within topical formulations. Extracts were characterized by HPLC, and antimicrobial activity was assessed using broth microdilution and agar diffusion methods. Postbiotic extracts at 500 mg/mL inhibited microbial growth by 90–97%. Oat-derived β-glucan at 0.5% inhibited over 97% of microbial growth, while yeast-derived β-glucan showed approximately 60% inhibition. In agar diffusion tests, the active ingredients reduced the growth of both microorganisms, except for the yeast-derived β-glucan. These findings are promising and suggest that these bioactive compounds could support the rebalancing of skin microbiota in dermatological conditions. Further research is needed to identify the molecules produced by probiotics and assess the most suitable vehicle for incorporating the active compounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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9 pages, 686 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Disaggregated Helicobacter pylori Biofilm Impairs Bactericidal Activity and Bacterial Phagocytosis by Human Neutrophils

by Clara Lourdes Tovar-Robles, Yolanda Romo-Lozano, Daniel Cervantes-García and Rodolfo González-Segovia

Microbiol. Res. 2025, 16(6), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres16060121 - 8 Jun 2025

Viewed by 1271

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a prevalent human pathogen affecting nearly half the global population, is a major contributor to chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, and gastric cancer. H. pylori develops biofilms (BFs) allowing bacteria to evade the immune response. Differences in composition [...] Read more.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a prevalent human pathogen affecting nearly half the global population, is a major contributor to chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, and gastric cancer. H. pylori develops biofilms (BFs) allowing bacteria to evade the immune response. Differences in composition between planktonic and biofilm cells influence the host’s immune response, yet the specific biofilm components modulating this response remain uncharacterized. Considering the above, this study evaluated the effect of in vitro-generated H. pylori BF on the antibacterial activity of neutrophils. This work utilized sonication to obtain disaggregated H. pylori BF (d-BF-Hp) to challenge human neutrophils, assessing their bactericidal and phagocytic activity against Staphylococcus aureus. S. aureus survival in the presence of neutrophils was enhanced by 10 μg/mL of d-BF-Hp’s protein. Conversely, S. aureus survival was significantly lower at 30 µg/mL compared to 10 µg/mL d-BF-Hp. Furthermore, 10 and 30 µg/mL of d-BF-Hp significantly reduced the neutrophil phagocytosis rate. Our findings suggest that d-BF-Hp components diminish neutrophil bactericidal activity, although this effect was not observed at higher d-BF-Hp concentrations. Increased d-BF-Hp concentrations proportionally reduced neutrophil phagocytic capacity. Future work should explore the mechanisms underlying the alteration of neutrophil microbicidal properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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14 pages, 698 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mycobacterium appelbergii sp. nov., a Novel Species Isolated from a Drinking Water Fountain in a Rural Community

by Inês Cravo Roxo, Susana Alarico, Ana Fonseca, Daniela Machado, Ana Maranha, Igor Tiago, Raquel Duarte and Nuno Empadinhas

Microorganisms 2025, 13(6), 1259; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13061259 - 29 May 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1844

Abstract

Three isolates of a novel, rapidly growing, non-pigmented Mycobacterium species were recovered from the water and runoff of a public fountain in a rural village in central Portugal, formerly used by the local population as a source of drinking water and not accessible [...] Read more.

Three isolates of a novel, rapidly growing, non-pigmented Mycobacterium species were recovered from the water and runoff of a public fountain in a rural village in central Portugal, formerly used by the local population as a source of drinking water and not accessible to animals. High-quality draft genome sequencing, in silico DNA–DNA hybridization, and phylogenetic analyses confirmed that isolates 21AC1^T, 21AC14, and 21AC21 represent a previously undescribed species within the genus Mycobacterium, forming a distinct phylogenetic lineage closely related to Mycobacterium wolinskyi, Mycobacterium goodii and Mycobacterium smegmatis. MALDI-TOF MS analysis of the type strain 21AC1^T revealed a unique spectral profile. A comprehensive polyphasic characterization was performed, including chemotaxonomic analyses of fatty acid and mycolic acid composition, as well as an extensive biochemical characterization. Their susceptibility to 12 antimicrobials was also assessed. The identification and characterization of novel nontuberculous mycobacteria species are of increasing environmental and clinical relevance, as infections by these opportunistic pathogens are on the rise globally. Based on our findings, we propose that isolates 21AC1^T, 21AC14, and 21AC21 represent a novel species, for which we propose the name Mycobacterium appelbergii sp. nov., with the type strain designated as 21AC1^T (=BCCM/ITM 501212 = DSM 113570) and the additional two strains as 21AC14 (=BCCM/ITM 501447 = DSM 118402) and 21AC21 (=BCCM/ITM 501448 = DSM 118403). Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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13 pages, 1350 KB

Open AccessArticle

Control of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Using Photodynamic Therapy in Synergy with Staphylococcus epidermidis: Role of Mixed Cultures in Developing Strategies to Inhibit Infections

by Rebeca Vieira de Lima, Kate Cristina Blanco and Vanderlei Salvador Bagnato

Microorganisms 2025, 13(6), 1196; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13061196 - 23 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1532

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive bacterium living abundantly on our skin and mucous membranes. When there is an imbalance in microbiota, they are the main protagonists of various infections, such as soft tissue infections and bacteremia. However, Staphylococcus epidermidis also colonizes this microbiome, [...] Read more.

Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive bacterium living abundantly on our skin and mucous membranes. When there is an imbalance in microbiota, they are the main protagonists of various infections, such as soft tissue infections and bacteremia. However, Staphylococcus epidermidis also colonizes this microbiome, is able to compete with pathogenic bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and can contribute to treatments such as photodynamic inactivation (PDI) by inhibiting infection progression and restoring a healthy microbiota. In vitro photodynamic inactivation experiments were carried out using synthetic curcumin at a concentration of 5 μM as a photosensitizer and varying light doses (1, 2 and 5 J/cm²) at a wavelength of 450 nm, on pure cultures (S. aureus, S. epidermidis and MRSA) and mixed cultures, in which bacteria were placed together proportionally. This study revealed that pure cultures of these bacteria obtained statistically significant results with varying light doses of 2 and 5 J/cm². In addition, in an attempt to bring infections closer to reality, experiments were carried out on mixed cultures. The results were not only significant but also increased reduction of bacteria, including resistant bacteria. Study offers new perspectives on the importance of themicrobiota for treatment of infections caused by the Staphylococcus genus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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11 pages, 1233 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Atopobium vaginae: An Overview of the Bacteria Through Clinical Cases

by Anna Vaseruk, Stepan Nedzelskyi, Roksolana Konechna, Halyna Lavryk, Alicja Sękowska and Yulian Konechnyi

Microbiol. Res. 2025, 16(5), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres16050103 - 20 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 9389

Abstract

Atopobium vaginae (nowadays Fannyhessea vaginae) is an anaerobic bacterium increasingly implicated not only in bacterial vaginosis (BV) but also in a broader range of infections. Despite growing recognition of its clinical relevance, comprehensive data on the characteristics of A. vaginae remain limited. [...] Read more.

Atopobium vaginae (nowadays Fannyhessea vaginae) is an anaerobic bacterium increasingly implicated not only in bacterial vaginosis (BV) but also in a broader range of infections. Despite growing recognition of its clinical relevance, comprehensive data on the characteristics of A. vaginae remain limited. This study aimed to isolate and thoroughly characterize the clinical strains of A. vaginae from both vaginal and oral cavity samples. A multifaceted methodological approach was employed, including antibiotic susceptibility testing to assess resistance and sensitivity profiles, PCR for genetic identification, and biochemical profiling using the VITEK-2 Compact system. Additionally, the morphological traits and growth dynamics of the isolates were examined. Given the established role of A. vaginae as a significant contributor to BV, the results of this study aim to support the development of evidence-based antimicrobial strategies for effective management of A. vaginae-associated infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health)

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