Pangolin scales as adaptations for innate immunity against pathogens.

Background: Pangolins are the only mammals that have overlapping scales covering most of their bodies, and they play a crucial role in the ecosystem, biological research, and human health and disease. Previous studies indicated pangolin scale might provide an important mechanical defense to themselves. The origin and exact functions of this unique trait remain a mystery.

Whole-transcriptome analysis reveals mechanisms underlying antibacterial activity and biofilm inhibition by a malic acid combination (MAC) in .

Background: is a highly prevalent bacterial species known for its ability to cause various infections and its remarkable adaptability and biofilm-forming capabilities. In earlier work, we conducted research involving the screening of 33 metabolites obtained from a commercial source against two prevalent bacterial strains, and . Through screening assays, we discovered a novel malic acid combination (MAC) consisting of malic acid, citric acid, glycine, and hippuric acid, which displayed significant inhibitory effects.