Litchi fruit harbors beneficial surface microbes that change predictably during storage. A 9‑day study of litchi peel microbiota identified multiple key bacterial genera linked to storage progression. A random forest model based on these biomarkers accurately predicted fruit freshness. Among the isolates, Gluconobacter sp. Lc45 strongly inhibited two major postharvest pathogens (Peronophythora litchii and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides), offering the potential of native microbiota for freshness monitoring and eco‑friendly disease control.

Scientists have discovered a novel infection-associated organelle, termed the “virulensome,” in the nematode-trapping fungus Dactylellina haptotyla. Previously observed only as mysterious electron-dense structures, virulensomes are now shown to form specifically in response to nematode stimulation. They function as cellular hubs enriched with diverse virulence factors. These organelles rapidly deploy pathogenic molecules into the host, revealing a previously unknown strategy underlying fungal infection. The findings were published in SCIENCE CHINA Life Sciences.

Researchers have developed a solid-state electrolyte design strategy that enables rapid lithium-ion transport while using substantially less lithium. By forming connected interfacial networks inside oxychloride electrolytes, the strategy combines high ionic conductivity with tunable properties, including high-voltage stability. The concept was validated in long-life, high-rate all-solid-state batteries and may provide a new route for designing a family of lean-lithium solid electrolytes.

A recent study published in National Science Review developed an open-access interactive map of ARGs in Chinese soils. It revealed that the relative abundance of total ARGs and Rank I ARGs in croplands declined by 52.6% and 77.0%, respectively, after 2016, coinciding with the implementation of China’s National Action Plan to Contain Antimicrobial Resistance (2016–2020). The study further highlights chemical pollutants and agricultural activities as important factors for future environmental AMR management.

Professor Zheng Yanzhen's team at Xi'an Jiaotong University has discovered a single-molecule magnetic ring whose shape responds to changes in the magnetic field. In this system, the large spin ground state generated by ferromagnetic coupling can rapidly respond to the magnetic field, thereby inducing macroscopic crystal striction, a phenomenon that characterizes a 'single-molecule magnetostrictor'.

This study explores an ethanol/ammonium sulfate aqueous two-phase system as a greener extraction strategy for a four-herb mixture designed for acne-prone skin. The ATPS method effectively enriched phenolic and flavonoid compounds and enhanced antioxidant activity, with the N12 fraction showing the strongest chemical performance. However, zebrafish assays indicated that the crude extract had a better safety profile and stronger biological suitability. Based on these findings, the crude extract was incorporated into prototype cleanser and spot gel serum formulations, among which the cleanser showed promising antibacterial and antibiofilm effects against acne-related microorganisms.

This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in bioactive peptide development for cosmetic applications. It summarizes peptide classification, biological mechanisms, production strategies, stabilization technologies, and emerging discovery platforms. By integrating synthetic biology, high-throughput screening, and artificial intelligence-driven design, this work highlights new opportunities for developing multifunctional, efficient, and next-generation peptide-based cosmetic ingredients.

For the first time, researchers have detailed a complete molecular circuit where two major plant hormones—ethylene and abscisic acid (ABA)—actively promote each other's production to drive the rapid softening of persimmon fruit.

Plants can distinguish between closely related beneficial bacterial strains and respond differently depending on the dose they receive.