Hidden bacterial molecules in the brain reveal new secrets of sleep

New studies show that a bacterial molecule, peptidoglycan, is present in the brain and fluctuates with sleep patterns. This challenges the idea that sleep is solely brain-driven, instead suggesting it’s a collaborative process between our bodies and microbiomes. The theory links microbes not only to sleep but also to cognition, appetite, and behavior, pointing to a profound evolutionary relationship.

Microbiomes may be corals’ secret weapon against climate change: Study

As ocean temperatures set new heat records, coral reef scientists are on a mission to identify which species and reefs can tolerate heat stress the best. But how and why do some corals cope with heat extremes better than others? A research team led by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama investigated this question […]

A blueprint for contemporary studies of microbiomes - Microbiome

This editorial piece co-authored by the Senior Editors at Microbiome aims to highlight current challenges in the field of environmental and host-associated microbiome research. We also take the opportunity to clarify our expectations for the articles submitted to the journal. At Microbiome, we are seeking studies that provide either new mechanistic insights into the role of microbiomes in health and environmental systems or substantial conceptual or technical advances. Manuscripts need to meet high standards of language accuracy, quality of microbiome analyses, and data and protocol availability, including detailed reporting of wet-lab and in silico protocols, all of which can critically enhance transparency and reproducibility. We think that such efforts are essential to push the boundaries of our knowledge on microbiomes in a concerted, international effort.

Gorillas with heart disease have altered gut microbiomes, study shows

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in zoo gorillas, but its origins remain unknown. Researchers from the University of Minnesota, in collaboration with national and international partners, have studied the trillions of microbes that live in the gastrointestinal tracts of gorillas to determine whether a link exists between the gut microbiome and heart disease. Their findings could have implications for how we may consider addressing cardiovascular issues in human health.

A new approach to controlling gene expression in microbial populations

The ability to control gene expression across a wide range is crucial for many fields, including bioengineering, disease detection, and environmental monitoring. Research led by Lingchong You, Ph.D., professor of biomedical engineering and molecular genetics and microbiology, developed a system to better regulate gene expression that could be applied to biosensors, toxin production, and metabolic pathway regulation.

Carbonate-dissolving microorganisms could be key to sustainable bioenergy

A University of Nebraska-Lincoln research team has identified new microscopic players in the global carbon cycle, a discovery that paints a clearer picture of carbon flow through the environment and provides key information for the sustainable development of bioenergy sources.

PhD Student