bims-fagtap Biomed News
on Phage therapies and applications
Issue of 2026–08–09
48 papers selected by
Luca Bolliger, lxBio
  1. Phage therapy for Crohn's disease.
  2. Phage as a prospective arsenal against superbugs.
  3. Pathogen-phage geomapping to overcome resistance.
  4. [Advances in phage therapy for pneumonia caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae].
  5. An update on biofilms in acute and chronic wounds: Incidence, clinical evidence, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
  6. The Bacteria-Fungi-Phage Interplay in Periodontitis and Peri-Implantitis.
  7. DNA sequencing for microbial surveillance in cystic fibrosis airways: advances, challenges, and clinical translation.
  8. The Oral-Brain Axis: Mechanistic Insights Linking Periodontitis With Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases.
  9. Purification of bacteriophages by dilution streaking double agar layer (DS-DAL) assay.
  10. Salivary antibody responses to Fusobacterium nucleatum and Candida albicans as indicators of periodontitis severity.
  11. Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella and Shigella: Epidemiology, Resistance Mechanisms, and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies.
  12. Microbiotherapy: an emerging adjunct for burn wound healing.
  13. Use of Wireless Smart Devices in Remote Monitoring of Chronic Wounds: A Scoping Review.
  14. CRISPR-Cas systems as precision antimicrobials: Reversing the tide of antimicrobial resistance.
  15. Mutations in filamentous bacteriophages spark eco-evolutionary feedbacks in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
  16. Exploring the potential of extracellular matrix modulation to modify oral biofilm architecture.
  17. Cystic fibrosis: insights from zebrafish models.
  18. Key directions of fundamental research on bacteriophage Receptor Binding Proteins with applied potential.
  19. To lyse or not to lyse: biasing bacteriophage behaviors.
  20. Generative design of bacteriophages with genome language models.
  21. Biological mechanisms and applications of photobiomodulation in wound care.
  22. Active Free Radical Cold Atmosphere Plasma Promotes Healing of Diabetes Foot Ulcer: Mechanism and Challenge.
  23. Treatment parameters and safety of photobiomodulation in wound care.
  24. CRISPR/Cas system as a novel therapeutic strategy to combat multi-drug-resistant bacteria.
  25. Molecular and environmental drivers of antimicrobial resistance: global epidemiology, resistome dynamics, and one health strategies.
  26. Polymicrobial Extracellular Vesicles Reduce the Innate Immune Response of Human Cystic Fibrosis Bronchial Epithelial Cells.
  27. From Mood to Mouth: Unraveling the Impact of Emotional Dysregulation on Periodontitis.
  28. Precision periodontology in clinical practice: bridging omics and clinical decision-making.
  29. Reimagining antimicrobial resistance: AI-driven predictive epidemiology and the C-AMRE framework for next-generation antibiotic discovery.
  30. Host-Specific Interactions Between Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Impair Epithelial Repair in Chronic Rhinosinusitis.
  31. Comparing the Effectiveness of Different Types of Orthoses in Preventing Diabetic Foot Ulcer Recurrence: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials.
  32. A Comparative Study to Evaluate the Effect of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy and 3% Hypertonic Saline Dressings in the Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers.
  33. Pharmacotherapeutic strategies for the treatment of severe juvenile acne.
  34. Junior nurses' wound care knowledge and attitude towards wound care and training aspirations: a training needs analysis.
  35. Frontier research and clinical application prospects of microbiome biomarkers in autoimmune diseases.
  36. Septic Arthritis Caused by Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter Baumannii with Paradoxical Minocycline Sensitivity: A Case Report.
  37. [Evolution of DFU treatment strategies: from simple coverage with traditional dressings to active modulation with smart materials].
  38. THE ROLE OF PERIODONTITIS IN THE INITIATION AND PROGRESSION OF COGNITIVE DISORDERS: AN UMBRELLA REVIEW.
  39. Efficacy and safety of resina draconis as an adjuvant therapy for diabetic foot ulcer: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
  40. Dual-stage assessment of Salmonella-specific bacteriophage formulation: Antibiofilm activity on food matrices and in vivo efficacy against the murine salmonellosis model.
  41. Porphyromonas gingivalis sialidase reshapes gut microbiota to affect serum metabolism and splenic immunity: insights from a murine study.
  42. Lytic activity of F8-like phage φSPM-1 against One Health lineages of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
  43. Microbiome Stewardship: re-defining high-risk antibiotics.
  44. The role of dental assessment in source identification during Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia: a scoping review.
  45. Global landscape and knowledge structure of research on pancreatitis and gut microbiota: a bibliometric analysis based on WoSCC and Scopus (2006 - 2025).
  46. Application of Autologous and Allogeneic Platelet-Rich Fibrin in the Repair of Chronic Wounds.
  47. Weissella Confusa Infections and Strain-Level Biosafety: Clinical Evidence and Intrinsic Vancomycin Resistance.
  48. Resistance breakers: a novel approach to tackle biofilm associated infections and antimicrobial resistance.
  1. Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2026 Aug 04.
    Phage therapy for Crohn's disease.
    Sarah Crunkhorn.
      
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1038/d41573-026-00126-1
  2. Mol Biol Rep. 2026 Aug 04. pii: 1345. [Epub ahead of print]53(1):
    Phage as a prospective arsenal against superbugs.
    Lejia Zhao, Yirui Wan, Sharon Shui Yee Leung, Xuemei Yang, Ping Zeng.
      The escalating crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) necessitates the urgent development of alternatives to traditional antibiotics. Bacteriophage (phage) therapy, which utilizes viruses that specifically infect and lyse bacteria, has re-emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy. This review comprehensively examines the current landscape, beginning with the modern, genome-based classification of phages and detailing their key therapeutic advantages, including high specificity, self-amplification, and biofilm-penetrating capability. We explore advanced biotechnological applications such as genetic engineering of phages, the use of phage-derived proteins, and synergistic phage-antibiotic combinations (PAS). The translational workflow from phage sourcing and biobanking to characterization, formulation, and clinical delivery is critically analyzed, alongside major therapeutic areas like chronic wounds and pulmonary infections. Despite promising clinical evidence from compassionate use and trials, significant scientific, regulatory, and commercial hurdles remain. The integration of synthetic biology and artificial intelligence is poised to overcome these challenges, steering phage therapy toward becoming a precise and adaptable component of the modern antimicrobial arsenal.
    Keywords:  Antimicrobial resistance; Bacteriophage; Clinical translation; Phage engineering; Phage therapy
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1007/s11033-026-12537-9
  3. Elife. 2026 Aug 06. pii: RP109259. [Epub ahead of print]15
    Pathogen-phage geomapping to overcome resistance.
    Camilla Do, Keiko Christine Salazar, James D Chang, Justin R Clark, Austen Lee Terwilliger, Paul Ruchhoeft, Paul Nicholls, Anthony W Maresso.
      The rise of antibiotic resistance has renewed interest in bacteriophages as therapeutic alternatives. However, coevolution of phage and bacteria will naturally give rise to phage-resistant pathogens, complicating phage therapy efforts. A critical bottleneck in the production of phage therapeutics is the discovery of virulent phages against resistant pathogens. Conventional methods for discovery are time-consuming, biased, and laborious, limiting the potential for identifying suitable phage candidates. To overcome these limitations, we combined small-volume environmental sampling with 16 S rRNA sequencing to identify reservoirs where bacterial hosts co-exist with their phage predators. This strategy, which we term geographical phage mapping (geΦmapping), pinpoints ecological 'hotspots' for targeted phage hunting. We further developed a portable phage hunting device (ΦHD) that generates highly enriched phage concentrates directly from these reservoirs. By integrating geΦmapping with high-throughput enrichment, we constructed the RΦ library, a diverse collection of novel phages. We captured and isolated 36 new phages targeting extremely resistant organisms across various ESKAPE pathogens when conventional phage hunting and experimental evolution approaches failed.
    Keywords:  Escherichia phages; Klebsiella phages; Pseudomonas phages; bacteriophages; enterococcus phages; infectious disease; microbiology; viruses
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.109259
  4. Zhonghua Jie He He Hu Xi Za Zhi. 2026 Aug 12. 49(8): 902-907
    [Advances in phage therapy for pneumonia caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae].
    Y W Hu, Y Zhang, Y Ren, H Qin, H Zhao.
      Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) has emerged as a formidable nosocomial pathogen in the era of antimicrobial resistance, with mortality from pneumonia caused by carbapenem-resistant strains exceeding 50%. Phage therapy has re-emerged as a promising alternative or adjunctive strategy for managing refractory KP infections. This review consolidates the current preclinical and clinical evidence base, outlines the molecular mechanisms of phage-host interactions, and appraises evolving therapeutic approaches. Preclinical investigations in murine pneumonia models have consistently demonstrated that intranasal or nebulization phage administration markedly reduces pulmonary bacterial burden, attenuates inflammatory lung injury, and improves survival, often exhibiting synergistic effects when combined with conventional antibiotics. Clinical case reports and small compassionate-use series have further provided preliminary yet compelling evidence supporting the safety and therapeutic promise of personalized phage formulations in critically ill patients with multidrug-resistant KP pneumonia who have exhausted standard treatment options. Mechanistically, phage tropism is mediated through the specific recognition of bacterial surface receptors-principally capsular polysaccharide and, to a lesser extent, lipopolysaccharide-by phage-encoded receptor-binding proteins, culminating in bacterial lysis. In response, KP has evolved a multilayered defensive arsenal encompassing receptor modification to impede adsorption, nucleic acid interference systems (e.g., CRISPR-Cas and restriction-modification), and abortive infection mechanisms that curtail phage propagation at the population level. To surmount the inherent limitations of narrow host range and the inevitable emergence of phage-resistant mutants, a suite of optimization strategies is under active refinement, including rationally designed phage cocktails, genetically engineered phages with extended tropism, artificial intelligence-assisted host-range prediction, and innovative delivery platforms such as hydrogel encapsulation to enhance pulmonary bioavailability. Despite ongoing challenges in mechanistic complexity, manufacturing standardization, and regulatory uncertainty, current initiatives- such as the establishment of geographically diverse phage libraries, real-time surveillance of phage resistance, and the development of phage-derived enzyme products-hold promise for establishing precision phage therapy as a viable and sustainable component of the antimicrobial stewardship armamentarium.
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3760/cma.j.cn112147-20251012-00632
  5. J Intern Med. 2026 Aug 07.
    An update on biofilms in acute and chronic wounds: Incidence, clinical evidence, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
    Steven L Percival, Marcus J Swann, Kristian Daly, Dieter O Mayer, Prashini Moodley, Rui Chen.
      Pathogenic biofilms are a critical barrier to wound healing, driving infection persistence, delayed tissue repair, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and tolerance. This recognition has driven a paradigm shift from a traditional planktonic model of infection to a biofilm-mediated framework, where structured microbial communities are encased within a protective extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix. These communities are highly prevalent in chronic wounds, with reported detection rates of 60%-100% across diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, and pressure injuries. The establishment of biofilms fundamentally alters host-microbe interactions, promotes antimicrobial tolerance, and triggers therapeutic failure, prolonged inflammation, and wound chronicity. Despite their clinical relevance, management strategies remain limited. Crucially, a lack of rapid point-of-care diagnostics and standardized clinical endpoints hampers timely intervention. Conventional culture based methods frequently fail to detect sessile microbial populations, necessitating advanced techniques such as next-generation sequencing or confocal microscopy, which are largely unavailable in routine practice. A detailed understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning biofilm persistence is essential to translate knowledge into targeted clinical interventions. Effective management requires a biofilm centric, multimodal strategy that prioritizes regular mechanical debridement to disrupt the EPS matrix, supported by proactive exudate control and appropriate topical therapies. Looking forward, advances in diagnostic technologies, artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted analysis, and matrix disrupting or permeating agents offer significant potential. Furthermore, emerging biological therapies, including bacteriophages, promise to help transform wound management, reduce the burden of AMR, and potentially improve patient outcomes globally.
    Keywords:  antimicrobial resistance; biofilms; chronic wounds; diagnostic methods; infection management; wound healing
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1111/joim.70138
  6. Int J Dent. 2026 ;2026 7239600
    The Bacteria-Fungi-Phage Interplay in Periodontitis and Peri-Implantitis.
    Zhaoxin Ji, Lingying Kang, Sirui Liu, Qingsong Jiang, Wei Wei.
       Objective: This review aims to summarize current evidence on the interactions among bacteria, fungi, and bacteriophages in periodontitis and peri-implantitis, and to discuss their ecological significance, pathogenic mechanisms, and potential clinical implications.
    Subjects and Methods: This review synthesizes current insights into the roles of the oral microbiome in these diseases, with a focus on the critical interplay between bacteria, fungi, and bacteriophages.
    Results: Our analysis demonstrates that disease progression is marked by a shift toward polymicrobial synergy. Keystone pathogens and opportunistic fungi engage in intricate interactions within biofilms, including physical coadhesion and metabolic cross-feeding, which enhance microbial resilience and virulence. Bacteriophages, acting as natural modulators of bacterial populations, emerge as a promising therapeutic approach to disrupt these pathogenic communities. This bacteria-fungi-phage consortium synergistically modulates host immune responses, fostering chronic inflammation and tissue destruction.
    Conclusion: An integrated, multikingdom perspective on the oral ecosystem is critical for clinical advancement. Future strategies should prioritize personalized interventions that combine multiomics biomarker analysis with targeted therapies to effectively disrupt polymicrobial biofilms, restore homeostasis, and overcome antimicrobial resistance.
    Keywords:  bacteria–fungi interactions; dysbiosis; oral microbiome; oral mycobiome; peri-implantitis; periodontitis
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1155/ijod/7239600
  7. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2026 Aug 03. e0035225
    DNA sequencing for microbial surveillance in cystic fibrosis airways: advances, challenges, and clinical translation.
    Jessica A P Carlson-Jones, Thomas R Goddard, Bhavya Papudeshi, Vijini Mallawaarachchi, Katrine L Whiteson, Morgyn S Warner, Judith M Morton, Hubertus P A Jersmann, Robert A Edwards.
      SUMMARYDNA sequencing has revolutionized microbial surveillance in cystic fibrosis (CF), transforming pathogen identification from culture-dependent to total microbial community identification using molecular-based approaches. Techniques such as 16S rRNA gene sequencing have uncovered the complexity of the CF airway microbiome, while shotgun metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and viromics now provide strain-level, functional, and viral insights beyond bacterial identification. Despite these advances, key technical and logistical challenges remain, including the processing of high-viscosity sputum samples, overwhelming host DNA contamination, managing large data sets, and the integration of complex bioinformatic outputs into clinical workflows. Emerging innovations such as host DNA depletion protocols, targeted enrichment panels, and adaptive sampling on Oxford Nanopore platforms are helping to overcome these barriers, improving microbial recovery and sequencing efficiency. As cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator therapies are changing the lives of people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF), sequencing offers an unprecedented opportunity to track potential microbial adaptation in response. This review investigates current advances, limitations, and translational opportunities in DNA sequencing for CF airway microbiome surveillance, highlighting how these technologies can help reshape research and clinical microbiology in the post-modulator era.
    Keywords:  DNA sequencing; cystic fibrosis; diagnostics; metagenomics; respiratory pathogens
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1128/cmr.00352-25
  8. Cureus. 2026 Jun;18(6): e111856
    The Oral-Brain Axis: Mechanistic Insights Linking Periodontitis With Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases.
    Roopse Singh, Shilpi Asthana, Anveksha Arya, Mayur Kaushik, Mehvish Khan.
      Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), are major causes of disability and mortality worldwide. Emerging evidence suggests that chronic peripheral inflammation and microbial dysbiosis may contribute to neurodegenerative processes. The oral-brain axis has recently gained attention as a biological framework linking oral microbial communities, systemic inflammatory responses, immune regulation, and central nervous system function. Within this context, periodontitis, a prevalent chronic inflammatory disease driven by oral dysbiosis, has been proposed as a potential modifiable risk factor for neurodegeneration. This narrative review examines current evidence supporting the oral-brain axis and its role in the relationship between periodontitis and neurodegenerative disorders. Key mechanisms include systemic dissemination of periodontal pathogens and their virulence factors, persistent inflammatory signaling, blood-brain barrier dysfunction, neuroimmune activation, oxidative stress, and protein aggregation. Particular attention is given to the contribution of Porphyromonas gingivalis and associated virulence factors to neuroinflammation, amyloidogenesis, and neuronal injury. Epidemiological, clinical, and experimental studies linking periodontal disease with cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease are also discussed. Current evidence supports a biologically plausible association between periodontal disease and neurodegeneration through interconnected microbial, inflammatory, and vascular pathways. Although causality remains to be established, the oral-brain axis provides valuable insight into potential mechanisms underlying this relationship. Improved understanding of these interactions may facilitate the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies that integrate oral healthcare with approaches aimed at preserving neurological health and reducing the burden of neurodegenerative diseases.
    Keywords:  alzheimer’s disease; blood-brain barrier; neurodegenerative diseases; neuroinflammation; oral microbiome; oral-brain axis; parkinson’s disease; periodontal disease (pd); periodontitis
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.111856
  9. J Microbiol Methods. 2026 Aug 04. pii: S0167-7012(26)00267-8. [Epub ahead of print]248 107655
    Purification of bacteriophages by dilution streaking double agar layer (DS-DAL) assay.
    Abhinaba Chakraborty, Bomba Dam.
      We describe a simple modification of the classical double-agar-layer (DAL) assay that integrates Robert Koch's dilution-streaking to improve spatial separation of individual plaques and streamline the isolation of purified phages. In the method, named DS-DAL (dilution-streaking-DAL), a clarified phage lysate isolated against its specific host is first dilution-streaked across the surface of hard agar plates (1.5%); then the corresponding host-containing soft agar (0.75%) overlay is poured over the air-dried streaked surface, and the plates are incubated until plaques form along the streak tracks. We applied the technique to purify host-specific coliphages and Shigella phages intended for phage therapy in poultry, as well as polyvalent phages against Aeromonas for aquaculture applications. The approach produced discrete, well-spaced plaques with undiluted samples in the second or third line of the dilution streak (depending on the initial titer values), requiring only one plate to purify the phage, compared with 7-8 plates required for that many dilutions in conventional overlay plating. Thus, the dilution-streak DAL is a low-cost assay for rapid phage purification that requires no specialized equipment and is compatible with routine downstream workflows in both research and applied settings.
    Keywords:  Dilution-streak double agar layer assay (DS-DAL); Phage dilution streak; Phage purification; Phage therapy; Plaque assay
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mimet.2026.107655
  10. J Adv Periodontol Implant Dent. 2026 Jul;18(3): 122-131
    Salivary antibody responses to Fusobacterium nucleatum and Candida albicans as indicators of periodontitis severity.
    Muhammad Ihsan Rizal, Endang Winiati Bachtiar, Boy Muchlis Bachtiar, Yuniarti Soeroso, Fatimah Maria Tadjoedin, Retno Damajanti Soejoedono, Ferry Pergamus Gultom, Natalina Haerani, Melanie Sadono Djamil, Boedi Oetomo Roeslan.
       Introduction: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to the destruction of tooth-supporting tissues and remains a major cause of tooth loss worldwide. Its pathogenesis involves complex interactions between microbial pathogens and host immune responses, where salivary immunoglobulins serve as a first line of defense at mucosal surfaces. Identifying pathogen-specific salivary antibody responses that correlate with disease severity may provide noninvasive biomarkers for diagnosis and monitoring. The present work sought to explore how selected microbial pathogens and salivary antibody responses are connected with the severity of periodontitis and clinical periodontal status.
    Methods: A cross-sectional approach was applied. Saliva was obtained from 39 participants, including 31 patients diagnosed with periodontitis and 8 individuals with healthy periodontal tissues. Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunoassays were used to detect both microorganisms and immunoglobulins.
    Results: Patients classified as Stage IV periodontitis showed the highest occurrence of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Elevated IgA antibodies against Fusobacterium nucleatum (P=0.014) and Candida albicans (P=0.009) demonstrated significant associations with disease severity. Further associations were observed: plaque index with IgG to C. albicans; oral hygiene index with IgA to A. actinomycetemcomitans (P=0.008) and C. albicans (P=0.031), and papillary bleeding index with IgA to A. actinomycetemcomitans (P=0.003), F. nucleatum (P=0.002), and C. albicans (P=0.008).
    Conclusion: Salivary IgA and IgG responses to Fusobacterium nucleatum and Candida albicans exhibited significant stage-related associations with periodontitis severity, supporting their potential role as complementary immunological indicators.
    Keywords:  Humoral immune response; Keystone pathogen; Periodontitis; Polymicrobial; Saliva
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.34172/japid.026.3982
  11. Pol J Microbiol. 2026 Jun 01. 75(2): 139-156
    Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella and Shigella: Epidemiology, Resistance Mechanisms, and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies.
    Abdullah Ali Almrwani, Bassam O Al-Johny, Ali Ahmad Shaibah, Adel M Qumusani, Saleh M Al-Maaqar.
      The review article is a critical examination of the growing global problem of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella and Shigella, focusing on their epidemiology, molecular resistance mechanisms, and clinical effects. It compiles current information on increasing resistance to major antibiotics, such as fluoroquinolones, third-generation cephalosporins, and sulfonamides, that is caused by a variety of factors, including ESBL production and plasmid-mediated gene transfer, especially in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The minireview discusses the new therapeutic approaches such as bacteriophage therapy, antimicrobial peptides, antimicrobials based on nanotechnology, and a combination of antibiotic regimens and their mechanisms, efficacy, and some limitations that exist in these approaches. In addition, it discusses the issues of diagnostic challenges, infection control practices, and antibiotic stewardship as part and parcel of resistance management. It will be a focused, evidence-based review to inform research, clinical practices, and policy to turn the trend of resistance around and enhance patient outcomes. The presented multidisciplinary review shows that MDR Salmonella and Shigella infections have become a threatening problem in the world, which requires urgent measures, including multilateral cooperation, improved molecular tracking, fast diagnostics, and new therapeutic options.
    Keywords:  One Health; Salmonella; Saudi Arabia; Shigella; antibiotic resistance mechanisms; epidemiology; multidrug resistance; phage therapy
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.33073/pjm-2026-013
  12. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2026 ;16 1873498
    Microbiotherapy: an emerging adjunct for burn wound healing.
    Junxiao Zhang, Kangrui Zhang, Yiran Wang, Guojuan Fan, Yanna Lv, Jinlong Ma.
      Burn injuries rank among the most common types of severe trauma, typically causing damage to skin tissue. However, traditional management strategies, particularly those relying on broad-spectrum antibiotics, face the dual challenges of increased drug resistance and limited wound healing efficacy, necessitating urgent development of novel therapeutic strategies. In recent years, microbiotherapy has garnered significant attention as a potential adjuvant therapy in burn wound management. Microbiotherapy achieves antibacterial effects by competitively inhibiting pathogen adhesion and secreting metabolites. Additionally, it promotes burn wound healing through the secretion of anti-inflammatory and growth factors, as well as the restoration of immune homeostasis. This approach aligns with the field's shift toward personalized therapy, where microbial interventions can be tailored to the specific microenvironment of a patient's wound. Current microbiotherapies for burn treatment primarily focus on probiotics, bacteriophages, and microbial metabolic derivatives. These therapies can be used individually or in combination and are gradually transitioning from laboratory early-stage research to clinical application. Probiotics, the core component of microbiotherapy, exert their therapeutic effects mainly by secreting various metabolites. This review summarizes the latest advances in microbiotherapy for burn wound treatment, focusing on its mechanisms of action, in vivo studies, and potential combined applications. Furthermore, this review critically evaluates the future opportunities and translational challenges of microbiotherapy to provide a balanced perspective on its clinical viability.
    Keywords:  bacteriophage; burn; burn wound healing; microbiotherapy; probiotics
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2026.1873498
  13. Wound Repair Regen. 2026 Jul-Aug;34(4):34(4): e70194
    Use of Wireless Smart Devices in Remote Monitoring of Chronic Wounds: A Scoping Review.
    Kevin Tabatabaei, Aidin Gharavi, Erik J Wanberg, Dieter O Mayer, Sheila C Wang, Bijan Najafi, Afsaneh Alavi.
      The integration of Internet of Things devices in medicine has paved the way for novel diagnostic and therapeutic solutions that offer 'smart' capabilities, especially for at-home wound monitoring. Such capabilities include increasing portability, diminished gaps in care through continuous analysis, and real-time programmable manipulation of device parameters to intervene more rapidly. This scoping review explores the landscape of Internet of Things devices, including smart bandages, wearable and skin-interfaced sensors, and mobile app-connected devices, specifically designed for chronic wound monitoring in a remote, at-home setting. We reviewed literature from PubMed, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, and Web of Science, using keywords related to Internet of Things and chronic wound care. The evaluation criteria focused on biomarkers analysed, Internet of Things connectivity technology, experimental models used for device validation, and unique device strengths or weaknesses. Our review identified 52 unique studies comprising 77 data entries across five biomarker categories: gas and oxygen saturation, pH, metabolic markers, biophysical parameters of the wound microenvironment, and molecular markers of inflammation or infection. These devices span a wide landscape of biomarkers analysed to predict and monitor wound recovery, with the potential to improve patient outcomes through personalised treatment and timely interventions. However, many devices were never validated clinically on humans and faced limitations in power delivery, accuracy, stability, and reliability that challenge their potential usability in humans for wound monitoring. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of the potential and limitations of Internet of Things devices in at-home wound care, highlighting areas for future research and development.
    Keywords:  chronic wound; internet of things; remote monitoring; smart bandage; wearable sensor
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1111/wrr.70194
  14. Virus Res. 2026 Aug 04. pii: S0168-1702(26)00101-2. [Epub ahead of print]371 199782
    CRISPR-Cas systems as precision antimicrobials: Reversing the tide of antimicrobial resistance.
    Mahsa Khosrojerdi, Seyed Ahmad Hashemi, Reza Besharati, Ali Haghbin, Amir Azimian.
      Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has escalated into a global health crisis, with resistant pathogens causing over 1.2 million direct deaths annually and threatening to render modern medicine unsustainable. This review provides a comprehensive and updated synthesis of CRISPR-Cas-based antimicrobial strategies with a unique focus on: (i) critical comparison with conventional antibiotics and emerging alternatives; (ii) quantitative evaluation of delivery platforms; (iii) novel strategies including AI-optimized guide design and the ATTACK-CreTA system; (iv) comprehensive analysis of ecological risks; and (v) technology readiness level assessments for clinical translation. The CRISPR-Cas system, originally discovered as a bacterial adaptive immune mechanism, has been repurposed as a programmable precision tool to combat AMR by selectively targeting and eliminating resistance genes. We systematically evaluate the mechanistic diversity of Cas effectors, from DNA-cleaving Cas9 and Cas3 to RNA-targeting Cas13, and their application in reversing resistance phenotypes in WHO priority pathogens. We critically assess emerging delivery platforms, including engineered bacteriophages, conjugative plasmids, nanoparticles, and outer membrane vesicles, quantitatively comparing their delivery efficiency, payload capacity, and biosafety profiles. Novel strategies such as CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) for gene silencing without genomic cleavage, the ATTACK-CreTA system for enhanced bactericidal activity, and AI-driven optimization of guide RNA design are examined with appropriate caveats. We comprehensively address clinical translation challenges including immunogenicity, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, manufacturing scalability, regulatory pathways, and bacterial resistance mechanisms including anti-CRISPR proteins. No CRISPR-based antimicrobial has yet received regulatory approval, and we critically evaluate the gap between proof-of-concept and clinical utility. A detailed roadmap for clinical development is proposed. By integrating recent advances in Cas protein engineering, delivery technologies, and diagnostic applications, this review positions CRISPR-Cas systems as next-generation precision therapeutics capable of both treating resistant infections and curtailing the spread of AMR across clinical and environmental settings.
    Keywords:  Antimicrobial resistance; Antimicrobial resistance genes; CRISPR interference; CRISPR-Cas systems; Cas effectors; Delivery platforms; Gene editing; Phage therapy; Precision antimicrobials; Precision medicine
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virusres.2026.199782
  15. ISME J. 2026 Aug 04. pii: wrag193. [Epub ahead of print]
    Mutations in filamentous bacteriophages spark eco-evolutionary feedbacks in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
    Noah S B Houpt, Catherine A Hernandez, Paul E Turner.
      Microbial populations strongly shape their environment, which can re-route adaptation toward organism-generated fitness optima. However, the conditions that promote these eco-evolutionary feedbacks are unclear. Here, we used experimental evolution to test whether high population density, by strengthening niche construction, drives eco-evolutionary feedbacks in the bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa MPAO1. We then tested for adaptation to organism-modified environments by measuring the relative performance of ancestral and endpoint populations in filtrate generated by each evolutionary line sampled across generations. Contrary to expectations, we found that endpoint populations had higher performance than the ancestral strain in filtrate across nearly all evolutionary lines regardless of population density. This was caused by the emergence of hyperactive filamentous bacterio(phage) mutants during experimental passaging that inhibited the ancestral strain but not endpoint populations in modified media. Hyperactive phages emerged from one of two avirulent prophages in MPAO1's genome (Pf4 or Pf6). Hyperactive phages drove the evolution of phage resistance in bacterial populations via mutations in the type IV pilus (TIVP), the phage's binding receptor. In a follow-up experiment, we showed that these TIVP mutations pleiotropically reduced motility and decreased susceptibility to a TIVP-targeting virulent phage, both of which are important traits for P. aeruginosa infection and treatment. Overall, this work suggests that filamentous phage evolution can drive of eco-evolutionary feedbacks in bacterial populations, causing phenotypic and genetic changes that would not be anticipated from adaptation to the extrinsic environment alone.
    Keywords:  Niche construction; Pf4; Pf6; lysogenic bacteriophage; motility; phage therapy; prophage; type IV pilus; virulence evolution
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1093/ismejo/wrag193
  16. Mol Biol Rep. 2026 Aug 07. pii: 1359. [Epub ahead of print]53(1):
    Exploring the potential of extracellular matrix modulation to modify oral biofilm architecture.
    Narinder Singh, Adarsh Anand, Priyanka Garg, Palwinder Kaur, Palakurthi Yanadaiah, Md Abubakar, Nitesh Kumar, Vancha Harish, Sehajdeep Saini.
      Biofilms are well-organized, surface-attached colonies of microorganisms that can thrive in host cavities. A balanced, diverse mix of protective microbes in these biofilms helps preserve host health. Dysbiosis in biofilms is responsible for consequential diseases in associated tissues. Dietary factors and other xenobiotics can cause ecological dysbiosis in the oral cavity that underpins dental caries, periodontal diseases, halitosis, and periapical infections. Although the gold standard for oral biofilm elimination remains mechanical removal, it is achieved with manual curettage or an ultrasonic scaler. However, the removal of non-pathogenic microorganisms, which contribute to chemical signaling and metabolic complementation of the host, thereby produces deleterious side effects. Therefore, to maintain ecological balance, alternatives are a major area of research. A 'control without killing' approach to modulating biofilms focuses on maintaining biofilm ecology rather than indiscriminately using antimicrobial agents. The extracellular matrix (ECM) of a biofilm protects the embedded microbial communities; measures that disintegrate it can emerge as a promising modality to control the growth of pathogenic microbes in them. Currently, research focuses on limiting virulence traits (acid production, protease activity, or quorum sensing) to degrade the ECM and slow pathogen growth without eliminating commensals. This article highlights current research on approaches to managing oral cavity biofilms and the translational challenges they pose. Understanding these alternative approaches can help formulation researchers, microbiologists, and materials science experts work integratively to manage microbial biofilms. This article opens gateways to implementing oral biofilm-modulating strategies in the management of other biofilm-associated infections.
    Keywords:  Antibiofilm approaches; Extracellular matrix; Oral biofilms; Oral health; Oral pH; Periodontal disease
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1007/s11033-026-12390-w
  17. Dis Model Mech. 2026 Jul 01. pii: dmm052856. [Epub ahead of print]19(7):
    Cystic fibrosis: insights from zebrafish models.
    Sarahdja Cornélie, Laure Yatime, Georges Lutfalla, Stephen A Renshaw, Audrey Bernut.
      Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a severe, life-limiting genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, which lead to defective epithelial ion transport, abnormally thick mucus and multi organ dysfunction, predominantly affecting the lungs, pancreas and digestive system. Despite significant advances in patient care, the complex interplay between CFTR dysfunction, chronic infection and persistent inflammation remains a major therapeutic challenge. In this context, animal models are indispensable for elucidating the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying CF pathogenesis and accelerating drug discovery. Here, we review the relevance of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a powerful and complementary preclinical model for CF research. In particular, we highlight the unique advantages of zebrafish, including its highly conserved innate immune system and optical transparency, which together enable in vivo visualization of host immune responses under CF-like conditions at subcellular resolution. We further summarize how Cftr-deficient zebrafish models have provided key insights into the increased susceptibility to CF-relevant pathogens, disease mechanisms affecting the pancreas and the reproductive system, and the deleterious neutrophil-driven inflammation that characterizes CF. Finally, we discuss the potential of the zebrafish model for the identification and validation of novel therapeutic strategies to treat infectious and inflammatory lung pathology in CF, and outline future directions to expand its translational impact in CF research.
    Keywords:  CFTR; Cystic fibrosis; Drug discovery; Infections; Inflammation; Innate immunity; Zebrafish
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1242/dmm.052856
  18. Front Microbiol. 2026 ;17 1834523
    Key directions of fundamental research on bacteriophage Receptor Binding Proteins with applied potential.
    Bożena Szermer-Olearnik, Tomasz Mrokowski, Andrzej Gamian, Karolina Filik-Matyjaszczyk.
      Over the past decade, interest in research on bacteriophage Receptor Binding Proteins (RBPs) of tailed bacteriophages has increased substantially, reflecting a broader resurgence in phage research. Once underestimated, RBPs have now become the focus of extensive investigation, largely due to their promising applications in pathogen diagnostics, host-range engineering for improved phage therapy, and the development of tailocins, protein-based antibacterial agents capable of inhibiting or eliminating bacterial cells. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on RBPs function and applications, with particular emphasis on their translational potential. We systematically analyzed recent literature, focusing on structural, biochemical, and functional studies that elucidate mechanisms of host recognition and explore emerging biotechnological and therapeutic uses. The reviewed studies highlight significant advances in understanding RBPs specificity, modular architecture, and adaptability. These features enable targeted bacterial recognition and manipulation of host range. Furthermore, we demonstrate that RBPs can be effectively engineered to be repurposed for diagnostic and antimicrobial applications. Together, these findings position RBPs as a foundational platform for next-generation phage-based technologies and their translation into clinical and industrial applications.
    Keywords:  Receptor Binding Proteins; bacteriophages; host-range; pathogen detection; tail fibers; tail spikes; tailocins
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2026.1834523
  19. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev. 2026 Aug 04. e0025425
    To lyse or not to lyse: biasing bacteriophage behaviors.
    Rabia Fatima, Gayatri Nair, Amany Al-Anany, Alexander P Hynes.
      SUMMARYHow temperate bacteriophages choose between lysis and lysogeny (dormancy) was one of the very first-and remains among the best studied-models of gene regulation. As over 75% of bacteria have a dormant phage within their genomes, the impact of this decision is far-reaching. It is also underappreciated, with much of microbiology studied independently of this decision; for example, the ubiquitous lab E. coli strain K-12 was cured of phage lambda to make it a "better" model. Here, we review why phages "choose" to lyse or not to lyse, the wide variety of signals they can respond to, how these signals are tapped into by the phage, how the timing of the decision impacts its outcome, and how phages interact around this decision. This decision underpins so much of bacteriology that an understanding of it, and the resulting ability to bias it, will help explain phenomena ranging from failures in culturing bacteria to successes of antibiotic treatments.
    Keywords:  bacteriophages; lysis-lysogeny decision; lysogeny
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1128/mmbr.00254-25
  20. Science. 2026 Aug 06. 393(6811): eaec2657
    Generative design of bacteriophages with genome language models.
    Samuel H King, Claudia L Driscoll, David B Li, Daniel Guo, Aditi T Merchant, Garyk Brixi, Max E Wilkinson, Brian L Hie.
      Many important biological functions arise not from single genes but from complex interactions encoded by entire genomes. We report the first generative design of complete bacteriophage genomes using genome language models. We generated viable bacteriophages with target host tropism, using the phage ΦX174 as our design template. Experimental testing yielded 16 phages with diverse fitness profiles in laboratory conditions. Cryo-electron microscopy confirmed that a generated phage utilizes an evolutionarily distant DNA packaging protein in its capsid. A cocktail of generated phages rapidly overcomes ΦX174-resistant Escherichia coli strains, demonstrating a path toward artificial intelligence-generated phage therapies against rapidly evolving bacterial pathogens. This work provides a blueprint for the design of diverse synthetic bacteriophages and useful biological systems at the genome scale.
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aec2657
  21. Br J Nurs. 2026 Aug;35(Sup15B): S2-S7
    Biological mechanisms and applications of photobiomodulation in wound care.
    Emma Hallam.
      Photobiomodulation (PBM) uses specific wavelengths and light intensities to stimulate biological processes within cells, offering a non-invasive method of initiating wound repair. At a cellular level, PBM modulates signalling molecules such as reactive oxygen species and displaces nitric oxide from cytochrome c oxidase in mitochondria, allowing cells to resume signalling and ATP synthesis. This mechanism holds merit as an adjunct to treatments for chronic wounds and radiation-induced fibrosis (RIF). Chronic wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, remain in an inflammatory state due to vascular issues and chemical-signalling problems. PBM addresses these through upregulating growth factors and promoting fibroblast activity. RIF is characterised by fibroblast dysregulation, vascular injury and chronic inflammation. There is currently no pharmacological agent that can target every stage of the disease. By regulating fibroblast function, promoting angiogenesis and reducing inflammation, PBM can aid in addressing multiple aspects of the disease. However, the clinical integration of PBM is currently limited by a lack of standardised protocols for PBM use in chronic wounds and RIF. Further studies are needed to establish a therapeutic window and standardise treatment guidelines for patient safety. Such studies will also provide data regarding large-scale cost-effectiveness and longevity of antifibrotic effects.
    Keywords:  chronic wounds; diabetic foot ulcer; photobiomodulation; pressure injury; radiation-induced fibrosis
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2026.0265
  22. Diabetes Metab Res Rev. 2026 Sep;42(6): e70216
    Active Free Radical Cold Atmosphere Plasma Promotes Healing of Diabetes Foot Ulcer: Mechanism and Challenge.
    Yiran Wang, Junxiao Zhang, Jinting Yan, Wenhua Bi, Jinlong Ma.
       BACKGROUND: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) have become an important cause of disability and death in patients with diabetes. Traditional therapies are prone to problems such as recurrence and drug resistance, which result in unsatisfactory healing effects for DFUs. Although antibiotics are not the mainstay of treatment for DFUs, antibiotic resistance poses a critical clinical challenge for DFU patients who require long-term antibiotic therapy.
    MAIN TEXT: This review summarises the mechanism by which Cold Atmosphere Plasma (CAP) kills bacteria and activates healing ability through the production of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (RONS). RONS, as the key active species of CAP, exert antibacterial effects in a series of bacterial, cellular, and animal experiments, promote cell migration and proliferation, stimulate angiogenesis, and exert anti-inflammatory effects. However, current high-quality clinical trials are still lacking, leaving substantial room for further clinical exploration of CAP in the treatment of DFUs. Finally, the challenges and prospects of CAP in treating diabetic foot ulcers are summarised.
    CONCLUSIONS: As a comprehensive and innovative treatment method, the RONS produced by CAP offer a potential approach for treating DFUs and serve as a tool for promoting their healing. However, more clinical studies are needed for further verification.
    Keywords:  RONS; angiogenesis; antibacterial; cold atmosphere plasma; diabetic foot ulcers; inflammation; wound healing
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1002/dmrr.70216
  23. Br J Nurs. 2026 Aug;35(Sup15B): S8-S10
    Treatment parameters and safety of photobiomodulation in wound care.
    James Carroll.
      Hard-to-heal wounds are a major unmet clinical need, causing pain, disability, prolonged treatment and substantial healthcare costs. Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a red and near-infrared light therapy that promotes wound healing, reduces inflammation and relieves pain. The THOR LED cluster delivers a therapeutic PBM dose in 60 seconds and may be used alongside standard wound care for pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers and venous leg ulcers. PBM works by stimulating mitochondrial function. Light energy is absorbed in the mitochondria by cytochrome c oxidase, releasing nitric oxide, increasing adenosine triphosphate production and modulating reactive oxygen species, thereby reducing inflammation, improving cellular function and increasing blood flow and microcirculation. This article outlines the principles, treatment parameters and clinical protocols required for safe and effective PBM treatment of wounds.
    Keywords:  PBM; diabetic foot ulcer; leg ulcer; photobiomodulation; pressure ulcer; wound healing
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2026.0264
  24. Arch Microbiol. 2026 Aug 05. pii: 530. [Epub ahead of print]208(11):
    CRISPR/Cas system as a novel therapeutic strategy to combat multi-drug-resistant bacteria.
    Akmal Zubair, Md Abu Kawsar Prodhan Hemal, Alaeldeen Ahmed, Faisal Ahmad, Yasir Waheed, Naila Afghan.
      Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has diminished the effectiveness of present antibiotics, posing a huge threat to global community health and economic stability. This study investigates the CRISPR-Cas framework's potential as a cutting-edge tactic to fight antimicrobial resistance. Current applications, limitations, and prospective future uses are analyzed. CRISPR antimicrobial strategies, which bring together the latest developments in gene-targeting strategies, engineered delivery platforms, and translational applications to fight multidrug-resistant pathogens. CRISPR technology is different from traditional antimicrobial treatments that target general antimicrobial resistance genes, instead allowing targets to be eliminated specifically by sequence, while retaining beneficial microbial communities, which has the potential to be a transformative precision antimicrobial treatment. Nevertheless, there is still a need for optimization of delivery systems, specificity of targets, biosafety, and regulations to ensure successful clinical translation, especially given their amazing advances. Recent research confirms that CRISPR-based mechanisms also affect different bacterial species, including Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species, playing a key function in averting the emergence of resistance genes in these bacteria. Changes to CRISPR loci affect how resistance genes are targeted in ESKAPE pathogens, and CRISPR-Cas9 successfully lowers resistance by focusing on genes like tetM and ermB. A promising application of CRISPR-Cas systems in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the precise targeting of plasmid-borne mcr-1 resistance genes and other mobile genetic elements that facilitate the dissemination of colistin resistance. But the efficiency of CRISPR-Cas is diminished in some bacterial strains due to variations in their CRISPR loci. Enhancing transformation approaches and minimizing off-target impacts are critical challenges to confirm the precision and safety of CRISPR-based mechanisms in therapeutic applications. Advances in these areas are likely to continue to enable the development of next-generation CRISPR therapeutics for the effective management of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.
    Keywords:  Antimicrobial resistance; Bacteria; CRISPR-Cas systems; Gene modification
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1007/s00203-026-05118-8
  25. Arch Microbiol. 2026 Aug 07. pii: 544. [Epub ahead of print]208(11):
    Molecular and environmental drivers of antimicrobial resistance: global epidemiology, resistome dynamics, and one health strategies.
    S M Sertaz Islam, Md Nayem Chowdhury, Sumaya Islam Supty, Niaz Mahmood Tanoy, Dharam Narayan Yadav, Supriya Roy, Atia Tanzum Mollik Riea, Md Obaydullah, Zarin Tasnim, Mst Sadia Zaman, Md Ashikur Rahman, Md Shiblee Sadik Sabuj, Md Sadikul Islam, Md Anwar Hossain, Md Siddiqul Islam, Md Rashedunnabi Akanda.
      Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has evolved into a critical global health security challenge, threatening the effectiveness of modern medicine and increasing morbidity and mortality worldwide. This review integrates current evidence on the molecular and environmental drivers of AMR, alongside global epidemiological patterns, resistome dynamics, and one health-based intervention strategy. Recent surveillance data indicate that AMR contributes to approximately 4.7 million deaths annually, with the highest burden concentrated in low- and middle-income countries, where resistance rates in key pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus remain alarmingly high. At the molecular level, AMR is driven primarily by horizontal gene transfer mediated by mobile genetic elements, including plasmids, integrons, and transposons, enabling rapid dissemination of multidrug resistance among clinically important pathogens, including critical high-risk threats and critical multidrug-resistant organisms. Environmental reservoirs, including wastewater effluents, agricultural runoff, soil, and hospital discharge systems, serve as major hotspots for the selection and amplification of resistance genes. These environments facilitate the evolution of environmental resistomes, in which subinhibitory antibiotic concentrations, heavy metals, and other pollutants exert strong coselective pressures. Additionally, biofilm formation, metabolic adaptation, and climate-related stressors further increase the persistence and spread of resistance determinants. The integration of genomic surveillance and metagenomic approaches have improved the understanding of resistome structure and transmission pathways, yet significant gaps remain in linking environmental and clinical datasets. To address these challenges, emerging One Health strategies emphasize coordinated interventions across the human, animal, and environmental sectors. Novel approaches such as antimicrobial stewardship, phage therapy, CRISPR-based antimicrobials, and AI-driven drug discovery are being explored alongside improved diagnostics and environmental control measures. Collectively, a cross-sectoral, integrated One Health framework is essential to mitigate the emergence of AMR and sustain antimicrobial efficacy globally.
    Keywords:  Antimicrobial resistance; ESKAPE pathogens; Environmental drivers; Horizontal gene transfer; Next-generation antimicrobial therapies; One health
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1007/s00203-026-05107-x
  26. J Extracell Biol. 2026 Aug;5(8): e70176
    Polymicrobial Extracellular Vesicles Reduce the Innate Immune Response of Human Cystic Fibrosis Bronchial Epithelial Cells.
    Lily A Charpentier, Roxanna L Barnaby, Carolyn T Roche, Byoung-Kyu Cho, Prashant Kaushal, Young Ah Goo, Brad Vietje, Douglas J Taatjes, Alix Ashare, Fabrice Jean-Pierre, Bruce A Stanton.
      Chronic antibiotic-resistant cystic fibrosis (CF) lung infections are the leading cause of death in adults with CF. Despite advances in highly effective modulator therapies, microbial communities persist in the CF lung. The pathogenesis of CF airway infections can be exacerbated by pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which communicates with primary human bronchial epithelial cells (pHBEC) by secreting bacterial extracellular vesicles (bEVs) that diffuse through mucus and deliver virulence factors, DNA, and RNA to pHBEC. However, most CF lung infections are polymicrobial in nature, and therefore, the contribution of polymicrobial bEVs remains to be determined. By using a polymicrobial culture model representing a 'pulmotype' detected in ∼34% of lung infections in people with CF (pwCF), comprised of P. aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus sanguinis and Prevotella melaninogenica grown in synthetic sputum medium under anoxia, we report that each bacterial genus in the polymicrobial community secretes bEVs containing proteins and RNAs predicted to promote the establishment of chronic infection by reducing Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor (ETI) stimulated CF pHBEC CFTR Cl- secretion, enhancing virulence and biofilm formation, and upregulating the stress response and pro-inflammatory pathways in pHBEC. This response is most pronounced in CF pHBEC. ETI, a highly effective modulator therapy, did not ameliorate the response of CF pHBEC or return it to WT levels. These studies provide insight into why ETI does not eliminate polymicrobial lung infections and a hyperinflammatory lung environment in pwCF.
    Keywords:  bacterial extracellular vesicles; bronchial epithelial cells; cystic fibrosis; host‐pathogen interactions; inflammation; polymicrobial
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1002/jex2.70176
  27. Oral Dis. 2026 Aug 03.
    From Mood to Mouth: Unraveling the Impact of Emotional Dysregulation on Periodontitis.
    Siyao Li, Shuang Zhang, Yitong Liu, Yi Liu.
       OBJECTIVES: Periodontitis is a chronic infectious disease which is recognized as a major cause of periodontal tissue destruction. Negative emotional states have been associated with periodontitis, although causal inference remains constrained by heterogeneous exposure and outcome measures. This narrative review critically examines the evidence linking emotional dysregulation with periodontitis and summarizes plausible psychoneuroimmunological pathways.
    SUBJECTS: This review focuses on the association between psychological stress and periodontitis, including the psychoneuroimmunological pathways mediated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and sympathetic nervous system. Current experimental models and clinical epidemiological evidence support this psychophysiological interconnection.
    RESULTS: Psychological stress may influence periodontal inflammation through HPA axis and SNS/SAM-mediated changes in immune regulation and, potentially, alterations in oral microbial ecology. Converging experimental and clinical evidence supports the biological plausibility of this psychophysiological link, although heterogeneity in exposure assessment, periodontal outcome definitions, and study design limits causal inference.
    CONCLUSIONS: Further understanding of stress-periodontitis interactions provides insights into an emerging oral-brain crosstalk mechanism, which may help identify prospective therapeutic targets for interceptive periodontal management.
    Keywords:  HPA axis; periodontitis; psychoneuroimmunology; stress
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1111/odi.70440
  28. Clin Oral Investig. 2026 Aug 08. pii: 378. [Epub ahead of print]30(9):
    Precision periodontology in clinical practice: bridging omics and clinical decision-making.
    Simone Sevi, Stefano Romeggio, Gilberto Dinatale, Fortunato Alfonsi, Enrico Fiorini.
       BACKGROUND: Precision periodontology integrates molecular diagnostics, genomics, and advanced imaging into clinical decision-making. Despite major advances in microbiome characterisation, host genetics, and inflammatory biomarkers, their translation into routine care remains limited.
    OBJECTIVES: To critically appraise current evidence on microbiome-based profiling, genetic and epigenetic markers, host-response biomarkers, and three-dimensional imaging in periodontology, and to propose a conceptual decision-support framework linking diagnostic outputs to potential therapeutic actions and future implementation research.
    MATERIALS AND METHODS: A narrative review searching PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and the Cochrane Library (2010-2025) using terms related to precision periodontology, subgingival microbiome, periodontitis genetics and epigenetics, salivary and GCF biomarkers, aMMP-8, CBCT, risk assessment, and artificial intelligence. Priority was given to meta-analyses, systematic reviews, longitudinal studies, and guideline documents.
    RESULTS: Microbiological testing has defined but narrow indications; single-SNP genotyping has not demonstrated clinical utility commensurate with cost; aMMP-8 point-of-care testing is among the most extensively investigated host-response tools and may have adjunctive value in selected monitoring and peri-implant scenarios; however, current evidence remains insufficient to support routine diagnostic implementation. CBCT may directly influence surgical decision-making through defect morphology characterisation. AI-based models show promise but lack prospective clinical validation. These conclusions are consistent with the 20th EFP Workshop Consensus Report.
    CONCLUSIONS: Precision periodontology currently operates in addition to, rather than in replacement of, conventional staging and grading. We propose a conceptual decision-threshold framework for the selective consideration of molecular and advanced imaging tools when their additive contribution may meaningfully inform management. This framework should be regarded as a research-oriented decision-support model rather than a validated clinical algorithm.
    CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Clinicians are provided with a structured, evidence-based framework that identifies specific clinical scenarios where molecular diagnostics, host-response biomarkers, and three-dimensional imaging may meaningfully modify periodontal treatment decisions, supporting the operationalisation of precision approaches in daily practice.
    Keywords:  Artificial intelligence; Biomarkers; Clinical decision-making; Microbiome; Precision periodontology; Risk assessment
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1007/s00784-026-07059-4
  29. J Antibiot (Tokyo). 2026 Aug 06.
    Reimagining antimicrobial resistance: AI-driven predictive epidemiology and the C-AMRE framework for next-generation antibiotic discovery.
    Ashutosh Patil, Mangesh Jadhav, Ujban Hussain, Rajendra Kakde.
      Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) has evolved from a clinically observed phenomenon into a complex, dynamic, and partially predictable evolutionary process. Traditional approaches centered on phenotypic detection and retrospective surveillance are increasingly inadequate to address the accelerating pace of resistance emergence. This review presents a paradigm shift toward predictive antimicrobial science, driven by the convergence of Evolutionary Intelligence (EI), Artificial Intelligence (AI), genomic surveillance, molecular simulation, and digital twin technologies. Leveraging whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and resistome analytics, AI models can identify latent resistance determinants and forecast evolutionary trajectories before clinical manifestation, enabling a transition from reactive to anticipatory intervention strategies. Central to this transformation is the concept of the Computational Antimicrobial Resistance Ecosystem (C-AMRE), an integrated, multi-layered framework that unifies data acquisition, predictive modeling, mechanistic simulation, and clinical feedback into a continuous learning system. Within this ecosystem, molecular simulations provide mechanistic insights into resistance at atomic and systems levels, while AI-driven pharmacology enables the design of novel antibiotics, antimicrobial peptides, and Nano-Adjuvants through generative and optimization-based approaches. The incorporation of digital twins further advances precision medicine by simulating patient-specific infection dynamics, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK-PD), and resistance evolution in real time, thereby enabling adaptive and personalized therapeutic strategies. Across micro-, meso-, and macro-scales, these technologies collectively redefine AMR as a systems-level phenomenon that can be modeled, predicted, and strategically managed. However, challenges related to data integration, model interpretability, validation, ethical governance, and global accessibility remain critical barriers to implementation. Despite these limitations, the integration of AI and computational frameworks positions antimicrobial research at the forefront of a new era, where antibiotics are no longer static interventions but adaptive components of intelligent, continuously evolving systems. This review highlights the transition from detection to prediction and ultimately to adaptive intervention, emphasizing the role of computational ecosystems in shaping the future of sustainable antimicrobial therapy.
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1038/s41429-026-00951-x
  30. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol. 2026 Aug 03.
    Host-Specific Interactions Between Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Impair Epithelial Repair in Chronic Rhinosinusitis.
    Xiaohan Sun, Mahnaz Ramezanpour, George Bouras, Emma Barry, Alkis J Psaltis, Peter-John Wormald, Sarah Vreugde.
       BACKGROUND: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is frequently associated with polymicrobial biofilms involving Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Interactions between these organisms are thought to influence disease severity, but the epithelial effects of exoproteins derived from patient-matched cocultures remain poorly defined.
    METHODS: Clinical isolates of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa (n = 3 each) co-isolated from three CRS patients were cultured in a Transwell system as same-patient or cross-patient pairs. Cell-free exoproteins were applied to primary human nasal epithelial cells. Epithelial repair was assessed using a scratch assay, while cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses were evaluated by lactate dehydrogenase release, intracellular reactive oxygen species measurement, and interleukin-6 secretion. Exoprotein profiles were further characterized using data-independent acquisition proteomics.
    RESULTS: Exoproteins derived from same-patient cocultures consistently impaired epithelial wound closure compared with P. aeruginosa monocultures, although the timing of inhibition varied among patients. These exoproteins also induced greater epithelial cytotoxicity, elevated intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, and increased interleukin-6 secretion compared with monocultures or cross-patient cocultures. In contrast, cross-patient pairings produced epithelial responses similar to monoculture conditions. Proteomic analysis indicated that patient origin was a major determinant of exoproteome organization, with same-patient cocultures showing increased abundance of proteins associated with redox balance and metabolic regulation.
    CONCLUSIONS: Patient-matched S. aureus-P. aeruginosa interactions were associated with increased epithelial stress and inflammatory responses, together with differences in the exoproteomic profile. These findings suggest that host-specific bacterial interactions may contribute to virulence and possibly recalcitrance in CRS.
    Keywords:  Pseudomonas aeruginosa; Staphylococcus aureus; chronic rhinosinusitis; epithelial repair; host‐specific bacterial interaction; oxidative stress; polymicrobial infections
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1002/alr.70228
  31. J Foot Ankle Res. 2026 Sep;19(3): e70192
    Comparing the Effectiveness of Different Types of Orthoses in Preventing Diabetic Foot Ulcer Recurrence: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials.
    Behnam Amini, Hanieh Salehi-Pourmehr, Sevil Ghaffarzadehrad.
       INTRODUCTION: Therapeutic orthoses, such as medical shoes and custom insoles, are used to prevent diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) recurrence. This systematic review with narrative synthesis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of orthoses in preventing DFU recurrence compared to standard care.
    METHODS: We followed PRISMA guidelines for a systematic review. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science. RCTs on orthoses for preventing DFU recurrence were included. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane tools. Due to heterogeneity, narrative synthesis was used.
    RESULTS: An initial search of 4166 articles identified ten randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review, focusing on patients living with diabetes at risk of DFU recurrence compared to usual care. Narrative synthesis of the 10 RCTs, involving 1686 participants, showed that custom orthoses reduced recurrence in several studies (e.g., Bus 2013 reported 9.9% recurrence vs. 25% in controls), though the evidence was heterogeneous due to variability in orthosis types and follow-up periods.
    CONCLUSION: Orthoses can prevent diabetic foot ulcer recurrence, and we recommend their use where feasible. Further research is needed to optimize their clinical application.
    Keywords:  diabetes; foot ulcer; insoles; orthoses; peripheral neuropathy; therapeutic footwear
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1002/jfa2.70192
  32. Cureus. 2026 Jul;18(7): e111871
    A Comparative Study to Evaluate the Effect of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy and 3% Hypertonic Saline Dressings in the Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers.
    Manjesh K A, Ashwini Dutt, Nagarjun Nelluri, Sreedhar Rao Kota, Kishore Abuji, Ankith Narra, Narender Mudigonda, Diya Venkata Sai Dheeraj, Eesha Agarwal.
       OBJECTIVE: Diabetic foot ulcers are a major cause of morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and lower-extremity amputation among patients with diabetes mellitus. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has emerged as an advanced wound management modality with potential benefits over conventional dressings. The present study was undertaken to compare the effectiveness of NPWT and 3% hypertonic saline dressing in the management of diabetic foot ulcers.
    MATERIAL AND METHODS: This prospective comparative study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery, Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Medical College and Hospital, Hyderabad, India, between January 2022 and December 2024. A total of 230 patients with Wagner grade 1 and 2 diabetic foot ulcers were included. Following surgical debridement and infection control measures, 115 patients were treated with NPWT, and 115 patients received 3% hypertonic saline dressings. Patients were followed for four weeks. Outcomes assessed included wound healing, duration of hospital stay, requirement for debridement, and amputation rate.
    RESULTS: Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Mean wound dimensions in the NPWT group decreased from 8.59 ± 1.43 cm × 4.32 ± 1.25 cm to 3.20 ± 1.12 cm × 2.52 ± 1.32 cm, whereas in the hypertonic saline group they decreased from 7.98 ± 1.34 cm × 4.80 ± 1.85 cm to 5.25 ± 1.48 cm × 2.78 ± 1.89 cm (p < 0.05). The mean hospital stay was significantly shorter in the NPWT group (19.17 ± 2.3 vs. 35.12 ± 3.8 days). Healing rates were higher (91.3% vs. 78.3%), and amputation rates were lower (8.7% vs. 21.7%) in the NPWT group.
    CONCLUSION: NPWT demonstrated superior wound healing outcomes compared with 3% hypertonic saline dressing in patients with diabetic foot ulcers. The therapy resulted in enhanced wound contraction, reduced hospitalization, and improved clinical outcomes. These findings support the use of NPWT as an effective treatment modality in the management of diabetic foot ulcers.
    Keywords:  3% hypertonic saline; diabetic foot ulcers (dfu); hypertonic saline in diabetic foot ulcer; major limb amputation; management of diabetic foot; negative pressure wound therapy (npwt); vac vs 3% ns; vacuum-assisted closure (vac)
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.111871
  33. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2026 Aug 06. 1-10
    Pharmacotherapeutic strategies for the treatment of severe juvenile acne.
    Chiara Palagiano, Luca Potestio, Claudio Brescia, Maddalena Napolitano.
       INTRODUCTION: Severe juvenile acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can impair quality of life and lead to permanent scarring during adolescence. Advances in understanding acne pathophysiology have shifted treatment toward early intervention, antimicrobial stewardship, and individualized systemic strategies.
    AREAS COVERED: This narrative review summarizes current evidence on pharmacotherapy for severe juvenile acne, focusing on systemic treatments. PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov database were searchede from inception to March 2026. Key pathogenic mechanisms,, including sebaceous hyperactivity, follicular hyperkeratinization, Cutibacterium acnes, dysbiosis, immune-inflammatory activation, and hormonal influences, are reviewed.
    EXPERT OPINION: Severe juvenile acne should not be dismissed as a physiologic feature of adolescence, because delayed or inadequate treatment may cause major physical and psychological sequelae. Oral isotretinoin remains the gold standard for severe nodulocystic, scarring, or treatment-resistant acne. Timely specialist assessment is essential to avoid unnecessary delay when licensed criteria are met, while ensuring compliance with product information, regulatory requirements, and risk-minimization measures. Prolonged systemic antibiotic use should be limited through benzoyl peroxide combinations and shorter courses. Future strategies will likely become more individualized, microbiome-conscious, and inflammation-targeted, aiming to prevent scarring and psychosocial burden as well as achieve lesion clearance.
    Keywords:  Juvenile acne; acne vulgaris; adolescent acne; severe acne; systemic therapy
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1080/14656566.2026.2715706
  34. Br J Nurs. 2026 Aug 06. 35(15): S4-S10
    Junior nurses' wound care knowledge and attitude towards wound care and training aspirations: a training needs analysis.
    Fania Pagnamenta, Cheryl Teasdale, Monique Lhussier, Tim Rapley.
       AIM/OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to undertake a training needs analysis for wound care. Background: Wound care is predominantly within the remit of registered nurses. This study sought to ascertain junior nurses' knowledge, attitudes and training requirements to future-proof their education.
    METHODS: A 28-question online survey was developed, pilot tested, amended and disseminated. It covered demographics, confidence, anatomical and physiological knowledge and desire for further training and/or academic qualifications. It was electronically distributed to all junior nurses and nursing associates who have delegated responsibilities for wound care at a large tertiary trust in the north east of England.
    RESULTS: 429 junior nurses and 13 nursing associates responded. Nurses voiced that they lacked knowledge, competence and confidence in delivering pressure ulcer prevention and treatment despite national and local initiatives to reduce incidence. Nurses were able to accurately categorise pressure ulcers but not recognise deep tissue injuries nor maceration to the periwound area. Nurses wanted more 'wounds essentials' training, provided online and face to face; they also desired clinically relevant modules leading to a Master's qualification.
    CONCLUSIONS: This training needs analysis offers key recommendations for nurse educators looking to enhance their junior nurses' knowledge, confidence and attitudes towards wound care.
    Keywords:  Aspiration; Education; Junior nurses; Pressure ulcers; Training needs analysis; Wound care
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2025.0128
  35. Front Immunol. 2026 ;17 1752840
    Frontier research and clinical application prospects of microbiome biomarkers in autoimmune diseases.
    Qianqian He, Pinjun Zhang, Zhenni Chen, Chengping Wen, Mingzhu Wang.
      The microbiome is increasingly recognized as a master regulator of immune homeostasis and a key environmental factor associated with the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases (ADs). This review comprehensively synthesizes current knowledge on how microbial communities and their metabolites may contribute to ADs' development through microbial-immune interactions, dysbiosis, and the involvement of viral and fungal components within an integrated inter-kingdom ecosystem. We propose an operational definition of microbiome biomarkers as measurable microbiome-associated features reflecting disease susceptibility, activity, prognosis, or therapeutic response and categorize them into three classes: taxonomic, functional/metabolic, and host-microbiome interaction-derived biomarkers. We critically evaluate the evidence for specific microbial signatures as biomarkers for early diagnosis, disease monitoring, and prediction of therapeutic responses, incorporating evidence grading that distinguishes validated biomarkers from those that remain exploratory and discussing shared versus disease-specific signatures across ADs. The translational potential of microbiome-targeted interventions, including probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, is examined within a personalized medicine framework, with barriers to clinical implementation explicitly addressed. Key confounding factors such as diet, geographic origin, and medication use are highlighted as critical variables shaping microbiome signatures independently of disease. Looking forward, the convergence of multi-omics technologies and artificial intelligence for biomarker discovery, multi-omics integration, and clinical validation promises to unravel the complex microbiome-immune crosstalk, enabling more accurate diagnosis, prognostic stratification, and ultimately, individualized microbiota-informed therapy.
    Keywords:  autoimmune diseases; biomarkers; clinical translation; microbiome; precision medicine
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2026.1752840
  36. Niger Med J. 2026 Jan-Feb;67(1):67(1): 371-376
    Septic Arthritis Caused by Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter Baumannii with Paradoxical Minocycline Sensitivity: A Case Report.
    Ankit Batra, Ashok Kumar, Aarushi Batra.
      Multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms are emerging as an important cause for septic arthritis and one of the major projected reasons for global mortality. Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) is among the most challenging bacteria due to limited and often toxic treatment options, and with documented infection-related mortality up to 70% in some settings, as compared to an approximate 25% for susceptible isolates. We describe a rare case of septic arthritis from Northern India due to a CRAB isolate that was resistant to nearly all routine and last-line antibiotics. However, paradoxically, it remained susceptible only to minocycline. The case was treated by minocycline therapy along with surgical management, resulting in a marked clinical improvement and recovery of functional joint mobility on follow-up. This case report draws attention to new challenges faced by physicians in the management of septic arthritis with increasing carbapenem resistance, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. It supports the relevance of "older" antibiotics such as minocycline, when guided by a culture and sensitivity-based approach, and underlines the importance of strict antimicrobial stewardship to counteract the rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) challenge.
    Keywords:  Acinetobacter baumannii; Antimicrobial stewardship; CRAB; Case Report; Minocycline; Septic Arthritis
  37. Zhonghua Shao Shang Yu Chuang Mian Xiu Fu Za Zhi. 2026 Jul 20. 42(7): 603-610
    [Evolution of DFU treatment strategies: from simple coverage with traditional dressings to active modulation with smart materials].
    X L Chen.
      Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) fall into a vicious cycle of difficulty healing due to hyperglycemia-induced persistent inflammation, accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), tissue hypoxia, and susceptibility to infection. This paper reviews the pathological microenvironmental characteristics of DFUs, the design strategies of smart materials, and their integration with artificial intelligence (AI). Given the complex pathological microenvironment of DFUs, traditional dressings that provide simple coverage are no longer adequate, whereas responsive smart materials that are capable of dynamically sensing and actively modulating the wound microenvironment have demonstrated great potential. Furthermore, the paper highlights four key design strategies for responsive smart materials: using glucose-responsive smart materials to improve local hyperglycemia at the wound site; using ROS-scavenging smart materials to eliminate ROS and restore redox homeostasis; applying oxygen-generating materials to relieve hypoxia and to promote angiogenesis; and utilizing smart antibacterial materials to combat microbial biofilms and achieve potent bactericidal effects. Currently, the development trend of smart materials has shifted from single functionality towards integrated multifunctional synergistic systems. The paper further discusses the potential of integrating AI into material design, preparation optimization, and wound monitoring and treatment decision-making. Although most smart materials are still at the experimental stage and face challenges related to cost and manufacturing processes, next-generation smart materials are expected to achieve dynamic monitoring and autonomous treatment through interdisciplinary innovation, thereby fundamentally improving DFU healing rates and reducing the risk of amputation in patients.
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3760/cma.j.cn501225-20260409-00146
  38. J Evid Based Dent Pract. 2026 Sep;pii: S1532-3382(26)00081-3. [Epub ahead of print]26(3): 102307
    THE ROLE OF PERIODONTITIS IN THE INITIATION AND PROGRESSION OF COGNITIVE DISORDERS: AN UMBRELLA REVIEW.
    Celina Giuliani, Patrick R Schmidlin, Omid Fakheran.
       BACKGROUND: Cognitive disorders are a major cause of morbidity worldwide, and accumulating evidence indicates that chronic systemic inflammation may play a key role in their initiation and progression. Periodontitis, a prevalent chronic inflammatory oral disease, has been increasingly recognized as a potential risk factor for cognitive disorders.
    OBJECTIVE: This umbrella review synthesized evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses investigating the association between periodontitis and cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), dementia and cognitive impairment.
    METHODS: Following JBI methodological guidance for umbrella reviews, a comprehensive search was conducted across seven databases (Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus) from inception to April 2025 to identify systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the association between periodontitis and cognitive disorders in humans. Two reviewers independently performed study selection, data extraction, and quality appraisal using the JBI Critical Appraisal Tool. Due to heterogeneity, findings were synthesized narratively.
    RESULTS: Twenty systematic reviews and meta-analyses comprising 333 primary studies were included. Most reviews reported a significant association between periodontitis and AD or dementia. Meta-analyses consistently found increased risk estimates, with the strongest associations for severe periodontitis. Biological plausibility was supported by shared inflammatory pathways and detection of periodontal pathogens in brain tissue. However, evidence was predominantly observational, with substantial heterogeneity in diagnostic criteria.
    CONCLUSION: Evidence suggests a potential link between periodontitis and cognitive disorders, though results are inconsistent and causality remains unproven. Inflammatory and microbial mechanisms are proposed, but well-designed longitudinal and interventional studies with standardized criteria are needed.
    Keywords:  Alzheimer’s disease; Dementia; Inflammation; Neurodegeneration; Periodontitis; Umbrella review
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jebdp.2026.102307
  39. Front Pharmacol. 2026 ;17 1823436
    Efficacy and safety of resina draconis as an adjuvant therapy for diabetic foot ulcer: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
    Shiwei Zhou, Yi Guan, Qiping Yu, Jiaxin Li, Lan Ma, Chengliang Zhu.
       Background: Resina Draconis, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine with wound-healing properties, has been increasingly used as an adjunctive treatment for diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Resina Draconis in the treatment of DFUs.
    Methods: Five electronic databases were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to December 2025. Eligible studies compared Resina Draconis combined with conventional therapy versus conventional therapy alone in patients with DFUs. Dichotomous outcomes were expressed as risk ratios (RRs), and continuous outcomes as mean differences (MDs), both with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
    Results: Fourteen RCTs involving 1,011 participants were included. The meta-analysis showed that adjunctive treatment with Resina Draconis significantly improved the overall healing response (RR = 0.28; 95% CI, 0.20-0.39; P < 0.00001), shortened wound-healing time (MD = -11.66; 95% CI, -21.62 to -1.69; P = 0.02), and reduced serum C-reactive protein levels (MD = -1.99; 95% CI, -2.99 to -0.99; P < 0.0001). No serious adverse events were reported.
    Conclusions: Resina Draconis may be an effective and safe adjunctive therapy for DFUs, potentially enhancing wound healing and reducing systemic inflammation. However, the findings should be interpreted cautiously because of the limited sample sizes and potential publication bias of the included studies. Further large-scale, rigorously designed RCTs are needed to confirm these results.
    Systematic Review Registration: Identifier CRD42020189060.
    Keywords:  diabetic foot ulcer; meta-analysis; resina draconis; systematic review; wound healing
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2026.1823436
  40. Food Res Int. 2026 Oct 01. pii: S0963-9969(26)01421-3. [Epub ahead of print]241 119738
    Dual-stage assessment of Salmonella-specific bacteriophage formulation: Antibiofilm activity on food matrices and in vivo efficacy against the murine salmonellosis model.
    Nalina Murthy, Keerthan N Nayak, Tanu, Smriti Priya, Poornima Priyadarshini.
      Foodborne infections caused by Salmonella infection remain a major global concern due to increasing multidrug resistance and biofilm formation, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Thus, the development of potential alternatives, including bacteriophage cocktail formulations, is emerging as a promising strategy. In this direction, we developed a Salmonella-specific phage formulation (BPF-Sal) and evaluated its stability, biocontrol efficacy, in vitro safety, antibiofilm activity and protective potential in an in vivo model. Interestingly, BPF-Sal remained stable across a wide range of pH values and temperatures while maintaining significant lytic activity. Further, it effectively reduced Salmonella contamination on chicken breast and mixed fruit matrices to below detection limits (<1 CFU/100 μL) within 6 h and 10 h, respectively, compared to conventional preservatives. In HT-29 cells, BPF-Sal (102-101⁰ PFU/mL) exhibited no cytotoxicity, preserved cellular morphology, and showed efficient phage internalization. It also displayed antibiofilm activity, reducing preformed Salmonella biofilms by 90-92% at MOI 100 and up to 98% at MOI 1000, as confirmed by crystal violet assay, scanning electron and fluorescence microscopy. In a murine salmonellosis model, oral administration of BPF-Sal conferred significant protection, preventing weight loss and reducing bacterial loads along with improved health status and histopathological outcomes. Metagenomic analysis revealed infection-induced gut dysbiosis, characterized by enrichment of Proteobacteria and depletion of beneficial taxa. BPF-Sal partially restored microbial balance, while combination therapy further improved microbiota normalization. Thus, our findings establish BPF-Sal as a safe, effective, multifunctional phage-based strategy for Salmonella biocontrol and other phage-based applications.
    Keywords:  Bacteriophage; Biocontrol; Food safety; Gut microbiome; Non-typhoidal Salmonella
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodres.2026.119738
  41. J Oral Microbiol. 2026 ;18(1): 2710456
    Porphyromonas gingivalis sialidase reshapes gut microbiota to affect serum metabolism and splenic immunity: insights from a murine study.
    Qibing Wu, Hongxia Li, Yixi Niu, Hanmo Li, Junchao Liu, Yaping Pan, Chen Li, Shuwei Zhang.
       Background: Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), a major periodontal pathogen can alter the gut microbial composition, serum metabolites and systemic immune status in mice. However, the role of its sialidase in modulating these parameters remains unexplored.
    Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of P. gingivalis sialidase on gut microbiota, serum metabolites and their correlations with systemic immune responses.
    Design: C57BL/6 mice were orally inoculated with P. gingivalis W83, its sialidase-deficient ΔPG0352 mutant or PBS twice weekly following antibiotic pretreatment. After 40 days, spleen samples were collected for histological examination and cytokine analysis. Faecal samples were collected for 16S rRNA sequencing, and the serum samples were analysed by untargeted metabolomics.
    Results: P. gingivalis W83 group exhibited severe splenic inflammation and higher inflammatory cytokine levels than the other two groups. 16S rRNA gene analysis identified 19 differential bacterial genera (including Staphylococcus and Prevotellaceae_UCG-001) between the P. gingivalis W83 and ∆PG0352 groups. Metabolomics detected 12 key differential metabolites mainly involved in energy metabolism and amino acid biosynthesis pathways. Correlation analysis revealed phosphatidylcholine as a central metabolite, positively correlated with Staphylococcus, Prevotellaceae_UCG-001 and IL-1β, confirming its hub role linking metabolic shifts to immune activation.
    Conclusions: P. gingivalis sialidase exacerbated systemic inflammation by reshaping gut microbiota, driving phosphatidylcholine-centred metabolic reprogramming and amplifying splenic immunity.
    Keywords:  Porphyromonas gingivalis; metabolomic; microbiome; sialidase; splenic immunity
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1080/20002297.2026.2710456
  42. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2026 Aug 05.
    Lytic activity of F8-like phage φSPM-1 against One Health lineages of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
    Patrícia R Neves, Karine Dantas, Gregory Melocco, Helena Turano, Fernanda Esposito, Ana C Gales, Carlo E Levy, Elsa M Mamizuka, Nilton Lincopan.
      The increasing resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to carbapenem antibiotics is shifting the landscape of high-risk clones from a strictly hospital-acquired threat to a global pathogen with One Health relevance. Given the limited therapeutic options available, developing new treatments is essential. We previously reported the complete genome sequence of φSPM-1 phage from the family Myoviridae. In this study, we show that φSPM-1 displays lytic activity against hospital and environmental metallo-β-lactamase (MβL)-producing P. aeruginosa and confers a protective effect against lethal infection caused by the high-risk clone ST277 in a Galleria mellonella prophylactic model.
    Keywords:   Galleria mellonella ; P. aeruginosa ST277; Bacteriophages; Carbapenemases; Multidrug resistance; Phage therapy
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1007/s10096-026-05618-x
  43. Anaerobe. 2026 Aug 07. pii: S1075-9964(26)00052-1. [Epub ahead of print] 103072
    Microbiome Stewardship: re-defining high-risk antibiotics.
    Taryn Eubank, Abdulwhab Shremo Msdi, Kevin W Garey.
      Healthy human gut microbiomes are essential for overall wellness and must be safeguarded by incorporating preservation into clinical decision-making processes and policies. Given the paradigm shift of single-acting bacteria causing infectious diseases to a new understanding of interacting communities of bacteria that build up stable network structures and functions to prevent diseases, a One-Health umbrella has emerged that interconnects all life through their respective microbiota. The preservation of this homeostasis is a term coined Microbiome Stewardship. Although multi-causal, antimicrobial use has the most disruptive effect on the microbiome, quickly changing microbiome structure and function as well as promoting antimicrobial resistant gene (ARG) generation and abundance. Clinically, Microbiome Stewardship could lead to new strategies around antimicrobial administration route and enhanced consideration of whether anaerobic coverage is required, especially routine empiric coverage. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and perturbation of the microbiome effect short- and long-term patient outcomes and should drive the drug development process and repurposing of current antimicrobials. In the new scientific era of systems biology providing increasingly accessible and cost-effective studies, evaluation of the microbiome during the antimicrobial drug development process should become the new standard. Microbiome Stewardship incorporation into clinical practice and drug development will advance patient outcomes and AMR prevention on an individual and public health platform.
    Keywords:  Clostridioides difficile infection; antimicrobial resistance; antimicrobial stewardship; multi-omics
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anaerobe.2026.103072
  44. Front Oral Health. 2026 ;7 1876705
    The role of dental assessment in source identification during Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia: a scoping review.
    Laura Isabell Werneburg, Jeremias Hey, Karl-Stefan Delank, Felix Werneburg.
       Objectives: Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB) is a severe bloodstream infection associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, and metastatic complications. Early source identification is essential for antimicrobial therapy, source control, treatment duration, and prevention of recurrence. However, the role of oral and dental sources in SAB remains insufficiently defined. This scoping review mapped clinical and microbiological evidence on oral and dental sources, oral Staphylococcus aureus reservoirs, and source attribution in SAB, sepsis, and infective endocarditis.
    Methods: A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Population-Concept-Context framework and guided by PRISMA-ScR. PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science were searched for terms related to Staphylococcus aureus, bacteremia, bloodstream infection, sepsis, infective endocarditis, dental assessment, odontogenic infection, and oral colonization. Eligible sources included clinical studies, microbiological studies using human oral or dental samples, cohort studies, case reports, and case series addressing oral, dental, odontogenic, or orofacial relevance to S. aureus-related systemic infection. Data were charted according to study characteristics, oral/dental relevance, S. aureus relevance, contribution to source identification, and clinical implications.
    Results: Twenty-seven sources were included. Direct evidence mainly consisted of case reports describing severe MRSA or MSSA infections in which dental, oral, or orofacial foci were considered possible or probable sources. Endocarditis-related studies provided contextual evidence on dental procedures, oral screening, and dental status, but were rarely S. aureus-specific. Microbiological studies supported the oral cavity as a potential reservoir for S. aureus, MRSA, and resistant or virulent strains. Procedure-associated and high-risk host studies suggested possible links between oral procedures, mucosal disruption, odontogenic or oro-maxillofacial infection, and bacteremia or sepsis, although direct SAB source attribution remained limited.
    Conclusions: Current evidence does not support routine dental assessment for source identification in all patients with SAB. However, targeted dental evaluation may be clinically justified in selected situations, including persistent or unexplained bacteremia, suspected infective endocarditis, severe oral symptoms, odontogenic infection, salivary-gland infection, immunosuppression, or planned cardiac intervention. Future studies should use standardized dental assessment protocols and microbiological comparison of oral and bloodstream isolates to distinguish incidental oral pathology from true source attribution.
    Keywords:  Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia; dental focus; infective endocarditis; oral infection; oral medicine; source control
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/froh.2026.1876705
  45. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2026 ;16 1878923
    Global landscape and knowledge structure of research on pancreatitis and gut microbiota: a bibliometric analysis based on WoSCC and Scopus (2006 - 2025).
    Huichuan Tian, Liangyue Wang, Zixuan He, Guanlu Li, Ziyi He, Gang Wei.
       Background: The research on pancreatitis and gut microbiota has expanded rapidly in recent years. Growing evidence suggests that gut dysbiosis may play an important role in pancreatic inflammation, intestinal barrier dysfunction and disease progression, but global research landscape, major contributors, knowledge structure and hotspots have not been fully defined.
    Materials and methods: Publications related to pancreatitis and gut microbiota were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection and Scopus. The search was conducted on Jan 5, 2026, and covered studies published between 2006 and 2025. Bibliometrix, VOSviewer, CiteSpace and Microsoft Excel were used to analyze the annual publication trends, journal sources, authors, countries, institutions, cited articles, co-cited references, keyword co-occurrence, thematic clustering, and time evolution.
    Results: The annual number of publications increased markedly from 2006 to 2025, with sustained acceleration after 2020. Pre- and post-2020 comparison suggested a shift from early clinical and intervention-oriented topics toward more mechanism-based and translational research, including gut microbiota, immune regulation, and multi-omics approaches. China contributed the most publications, followed by the United States. Citation and co-citation analyses identified major thematic groups related to acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic homeostasis, dietary intervention, and microbiota-targeted research. Frequent keywords included human, gut microbiota, acute pancreatitis, intestinal flora, inflammation, dysbiosis, probiotics and chronic pancreatitis. Recent burst keywords were more closely related to bifidobacterium, short-chain fatty acids, metabolomics, acute lung injury, fecal analysis, and lipopolysaccharide, suggesting changing research attention toward mechanism-oriented and translational topics.
    Conclusion: This bibliometric analysis provides a detailed overview of global studies on pancreatitis and gut microbiota from 2006 to 2025. The field has expanded rapidly, and bibliometric patterns suggest increasing attention to mechanistic and translational investigations. Some highly co-cited references were related to pancreatic cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, microbial metabolites, immune regulation, and host-microbe interactions rather than pancreatitis itself, reflecting the broader knowledge base of this research field. Acute pancreatitis remained the most studied topic, while chronic pancreatitis, microbial metabolites, host response, and microbiota-targeted approaches gained increasing attention in recent years. Future research may shift from descriptive microbiota profiling to mechanism-oriented and translational studies.
    Keywords:  CiteSpace; VOSviewer; bibliometric analysis; chronic pancreatitis; dysbiosis; gut microbiota; microbial metabolites; pancreatitis
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2026.1878923
  46. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater. 2026 Aug;114(8): e70119
    Application of Autologous and Allogeneic Platelet-Rich Fibrin in the Repair of Chronic Wounds.
    Jiali Miao, Naziat Begum, Tariq Aziz, Lijun Zhang, Shangsheng Yao, Yifan Zhang, Yating Wei, Yongkang Zhu, Xin Liu, Jinhui Chen, Guangtao Huang, Jun Wu.
      Chronic wounds remain a significant clinical challenge, primarily because of persistent obstacles including prolonged healing duration, high recurrence rates, and limited responsiveness to standard therapies. These limitations impose a considerable burden, which severely affects patients' quality of life. Autologous platelet-rich fibrin has emerged as a promising regenerative strategy to overcome these challenges; however, its clinical utility is restricted in patients with underlying conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers or impaired platelet function. In this context, allogeneic platelet-rich fibrin has been proposed as a promising therapeutic alternative, offering distinct advantages in selected patient populations. This study provides a comparative evaluation of autologous versus allogeneic platelet-rich fibrin in the management of persistent wounds, specifically assessing wound area reduction, granulation tissue score quality, and time of healing. Seventeen patients with prolonged, chronic non-healing wounds were assigned to two groups: autologous platelet-rich fibrin (n = 6) and allogeneic platelet-rich fibrin (n = 11). Despite a significant difference in pre-treatment wound duration (6 vs. 13 weeks, p < 0.05), both groups showed a remarkable reduction in wound area, from a median of 7.50 to 1.25 cm2 within 2 weeks, with no statistical difference in healing rates (p > 0.05). Granulation tissue scores improved markedly post-treatment, with 64.71% of patients achieving a score of 4/5, regardless of the source. Autologous platelet-rich fibrin demonstrated a faster complete healing time (30.67 vs. 48.27 days, p < 0.05). Treatment with allogeneic platelet-rich fibrin on a diabetic foot ulcer resulted in an 85.7% reduction in affected area, reaching complete closure within a five-week period. The findings show that while both groups are equally proficient in stimulating wound closure and tissue regeneration, the autologous method may accelerate the final stage of the healing process. This research encourages the broader use of allogeneic alternatives, particularly for patients with insufficient autologous blood, without compromising healing quality.
    Keywords:  allogeneic; autologous; chronic wound healing; inflammation; platelet‐rich fibrin; tissue regeneration; wound
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1002/jbm.b.70119
  47. Infect Drug Resist. 2026 ;19 623763
    Weissella Confusa Infections and Strain-Level Biosafety: Clinical Evidence and Intrinsic Vancomycin Resistance.
    Yu Lu, Junxian Liu, Deyu Wang, Shihao Houyan, Yingye Miao.
      Weissella confusa is an emerging opportunistic pathogen increasingly implicated in invasive infection among immunocompromised individuals, while selected strains continue to be investigated for probiotic applications-creating an inherent tension between beneficial use and infection risk. This is the first systematic synthesis of 39 published cases of invasive W. confusa infection. In this review, we analyzed these cases and summarized current evidence regarding epidemiology, diagnostic approaches, antimicrobial susceptibility, therapeutic management, and biosafety implications. Bacteremia (74.4%) and infective endocarditis (10.3%) were the predominant clinical manifestations and occurred mainly in patients with malignancy, prolonged hospitalization, indwelling medical devices, gastrointestinal barrier disruption, or immunosuppression. Accurate identification remains difficult because W. confusa shares phenotypic characteristics with other lactic acid bacteria and exhibits intrinsic resistance to vancomycin, frequently leading to misidentification and delayed effective therapy. Advanced diagnostic methods including MALDI-TOF MS, 16S rRNA sequencing, and whole-genome sequencing are therefore important for definitive identification. Available evidence suggests that pathogenicity is largely host-dependent, although definitive functional genomic evidence remains limited. Clinically effective antimicrobial agents generally include beta-lactams, daptomycin, and linezolid, whereas glycopeptides should be avoided because of predictable intrinsic resistance. The overall mortality rate in this cohort was 33.3% (13/39). Beyond its clinical relevance, W. confusa highlights limitations of traditional species-level probiotic safety evaluation. We propose a strain-specific biosafety assessment framework integrating genomic screening, antimicrobial resistance profiling, virulence assessment, and phenotypic validation to support safer probiotic development and regulatory evaluation. This framework may provide a useful model for assessing other microorganisms with dual probiotic and opportunistic pathogenic potential.
    Keywords:  Weissella confusa; antimicrobial resistance; opportunistic pathogen; probiotic safety; strain-specific assessment; vancomycin resistance
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.2147/IDR.S623763
  48. Front Microbiol. 2026 ;17 1783729
    Resistance breakers: a novel approach to tackle biofilm associated infections and antimicrobial resistance.
    Zangini Nakazwe, Simone Ries, Sanchita Kar, Mitali Sarkar-Tyson, Aleksandra W Debowski, Ethan Haese, Keith A Stubbs, Maud Eijkenboom, K Swaminathan-Iyer, Andrew Barker.
      Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as one of the greatest global health concerns and its threat to effective treatment of infectious diseases is accelerating. Biofilms remain a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance and persistence of infections. Bacterial biofilms are sessile communities of bacteria surrounded by a self-produced extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). Bacterial cells in biofilms are less susceptible to conventional antibiotics and to host immune effector mechanisms as the cells are protected by the EPS, exhibit altered gene expression as well as heterogeneity in metabolic and physiological states compared to planktonic cells. This poses a challenge for antimicrobial treatments and the development of innovative antibiofilm strategies to combat biofilm associated infections and resistance. This review explores resistance in bacterial biofilms and the recent advancements in resistance breakers: compounds that can inhibit or disrupt mechanisms of resistance to restore clinical efficacy of antibiotics. Different categories of resistance breakers are discussed including matrix disruptors, efflux pump inhibitors, enzyme inhibitors, membrane permeabilizers, quorum sensing inhibitors, and metabolic modulators. Finally, we discuss perspectives on existing translational and clinical challenges.
    Keywords:  antibiofilm strategies; antimicrobial resistance; antimicrobial synergy; biofilms; combination therapy; resistance breakers
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2026.1783729
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