The utilization of microbial cell-free DNA next-generation sequencing for the detection of human herpesvirus-8 in a quaternary care center.

Background: Human herpesvirus-8 (HHV8) can present with cutaneous or extracutaneous manifestations. While violaceous skin lesions characterize cutaneous Kaposi sarcoma, extracutaneous HHV8 is challenging to diagnose due to nonspecific symptoms.

Objectives: We evaluated the role of microbial cell-free DNA next-generation sequencing (mcfDNA NGS) in diagnosing HHV8-related illness.

Editorial for the Special Issue "MAPK in Health and Disease".

The objective of this Special Issue was to collate recent advances in the understanding of MAPKs' functions, particularly their roles in various pathologies, which constitute one of the most dynamic areas in cell signaling research [...

Detection of invasive infections with next-generation sequencing of microbial cell-free DNA.

We report 9 patients with invasive infections, including 5 with endocarditis, who were diagnosed with microbial cell-free DNA next-generation sequencing and serology studies. Diagnosis with plasma mcfDNA NGS enabled a faster clinical and laboratory diagnosis in 8 patients. Prompt diagnosis impacted antibiotic management in all 9 patients.

Early Atf4 activity drives airway club and goblet cell differentiation.

Activating transcription factor 4 (Atf4), which is modulated by the protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK), is a stress-induced transcription factor responsible for controlling the expression of a wide range of adaptive genes, enabling cells to withstand stressful conditions. However, the impact of the Atf4 signaling pathway on airway regeneration remains poorly understood. In this study, we used mouse airway epithelial cell culture models to investigate the role of PERK/Atf4 in respiratory tract differentiation.

Immunomodulatory effects of inactivated Ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT 9609 on respiratory epithelial cells.

The microbiota in humans and animals play crucial roles in defense against pathogens and offer a promising natural source for immunomodulatory products. However, the development of physiologically relevant model systems and protocols for testing such products remains challenging. In this study, we present an experimental condition where various natural products derived from the registered lactic acid bacteria Ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT 9609, known for their immunomodulatory activity, were tested.