Endosymbionts are widely distributed across various cell types in insects and are transmitted primarily vertically, while also spreading among different hosts through horizontal transmission. Functionally, they can be divided into obligate (primary) and facultative (secondary) endosymbionts. Obligate endosymbionts are essential for host survival, supporting growth, development, and stress resistance by synthesizing key nutrients such as amino acids and vitamins. Although facultative endosymbionts are not required for survival, they influence host phenotypes through reproductive manipulation, immune regulation, and environmental adaptation. The two types are functionally complementary, jointly meeting the host’s core needs in nutrient acquisition, reproductive strategies, and environmental adaptation.

Canavalia gladiata, commonly known as sword bean, is a leguminous crop with high seed protein content (26%–30%) and oil rich in unsaturated fatty acids. Despite its nutritional promise, the species has remained underutilized, largely because a complete genome and the genetic basis of its nutritional traits were lacking. Now, a research team from Yunnan University and BGI Research (Wuhan) has assembled the first gap-free telomere-to-telomere (T2T) genome of C. gladiata, combined with integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic profiling of developing seeds. The study was published in Journal of Systematics and Evolution.

Recently, Rice University’s Anna-Karin Gustavsson published a method in Nano Letters expanding the use of light sheet microscopy to include a single objective in commercially available sample chambers. 

Human stem cells from Adelaide University’s Centre for Cancer Biology have successfully travelled to the edge of space and back as part of a landmark mission for Australian cancer research.

An international research team has reported results from the first clinical cohort of 10 blind patients with advanced retinitis pigmentosa treated with optogenetic therapy. The treatment, which combines gene therapy with light stimulating goggles, was considered safe in all participants. Six patients showed a clinically meaningful increase in light sensitivity, while several improved in tasks such as detecting or locating objects, finding doorways and following lines. Visual signals were also detected in the brain. The findings extend an earlier single patient result and provide a foundation for the further development of optogenetic therapies.

1 in 20 pet cats in North America might have Giardia infection, with young, male, unneutered cats especially at risk, per analysis of more than 150,000 feline stool samples