Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has become one of the most prevalent diseases on earth and several treatments have been developed. However, the current intervention approaches have not been as effective as expected. One promising supplementary strategy is the use of probiotics through direct or indirect approaches. Probiotics are microbial food cultures conferring health-promoting properties. In this review, we summarized the current theories and mechanisms of T2DM intervention using probiotics and hypothesize that probiotics intervene T2DM during its onsetting, developing, and complicating. For the first time, we comprehensively analyzed T2DM intervention in animal models using both wide-type probiotics in different forms and using recombinant probiotics. Then, probiotic intervention in T2DM patients was reviewed and the main results were compared with that obtained from animal studies. Finally yet importantly, remaining questions that are important such as in which form and in which state, as well as the future potential of probiotic intervention in T2DM were discussed from a perspective of food microbiologists. In conclusion, probiotic intervention in T2DM is promising but there are still many important issues unsolved yet. Critical review of the advances, questions, and potential of probiotic intervention in T2DM promotes the development of this approach for further application in humans.

Autoinducer-2 (AI-2) molecules are one class of signalling molecules involved in gene regulation dependent on population density in a mechanism commonly referred to as quorum sensing (QS). AI-2 is produced by the methylthioadenosine/S-adenosyl-homocysteine nucleosidase LuxS. In the present study, we characterise the function of bifidobacterial LuxS proteins to address the question whether these economically important bacteria are able to perform QS communication. All publically available genome sequences of bifidobacteria harbour putative luxS genes. The deduced amino acid sequences are well conserved in the genus and show good homology to the LuxS protein of the prototypical AI-2 producer Vibrio harveyi. The luxS genes of three bifidobacterial strains were successfully expressed in AI-2-negative Escherichia coli DH5α. Supernatants of these recombinant E. coli strains contained significant AI-2 activity. In initial experiments, we failed to detect AI-2 activity in supernatants of bifidobacteria grown in MRSc. High concentration of glucose as well as acidic pH had strong inhibitory effects on AI-2 activity. AI-2 activity could be detected when lower volumes of supernatants were used in the assay. Homologous overexpression of luxS in Bifidobacterium longum NCC2705 increased AI-2 levels in the supernatant. Furthermore, over-expression of luxS or supplementation with AI-2-containing supernatants enhanced biofilm formation of B. longum NCC2705. Collectively, these results suggest that bifidobacteria indeed harbour functional luxS genes that are involved in the production of AI-2-like molecules. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first report on AI-2 activity produced by bifidobacteria. Self-produced AI-2 activity as well as AI-2-like molecules of other bacteria of the intestinal tract may have a regulatory function in biofilm formation and host colonization by bifidobacteria.

The RNA-based spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) technology represents an ecologically sustainable approach to crop protection and pathogen management. Following the recent approval of Ledprona as the first sprayable double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) biopesticide by the EPA at the end of 2023, SIGS has emerged as a focal point in both academic and industrial sectors. This review analyzes recent advances and emerging trends in SIGS. The application of SIGS for crop protection, including the control of insects, fungal pathogens, and viruses, is briefly summarized. Distinguishing this review from others, we delve into practical aspects of the technology, such as the selection and screening of target genes, large-scale production methods, and delivery systems, highlighting major advancements in these areas and also addressing the remaining questions and issues, particularly concerning safety concerns and controlling harmful weeds. Finally, this review emphasizes the emerging trends in SIGS technology, particularly its integration with nanotechnology and other methodologies. Collectively, the rapid progress in SIGS studies is poised to accelerate the maturation and application of this technology.