A new study suggests that our genetics plays a role in determining the microbial community living in our mouths, and scientists discovered 11 regions of the human genome that influence the abundances of dozens of bacterial species in the mouth. The authors found a relationship between a human gene and oral bacteria that plays a role in dental health.

UCLA Health researchers have created a comprehensive map showing how eight different genetic mutations associated with autism spectrum disorder affect early brain development, providing new insights into the ways diverse genetic causes may lead to shared features and symptoms of the disorder.

UBC researchers have engineered a gut-friendly bacterium, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, to act as a living biosensor that glows brightly under normal conditions and dims when it detects gut disruptions such as osmotic stress—a common feature of conditions like celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease. Unlike current invasive diagnostic tools that offer only momentary snapshots, this engineered bacterium can provide continuous, non-invasive monitoring through stool samples. Tested in mice, the sensor detected even subtle, symptom-free changes and remained stable for weeks, suggesting potential for early disease detection and long-term gut‑health tracking. The team envisions future versions that detect multiple signals—such as oxygen, temperature, and pH—or even deliver targeted treatments when illness‑related changes arise.