RNA-based stable isotope probing provides no indication for rapid α-synuclein assimilation by murine gut bacteria.

In Parkinson's disease (PD), α-synuclein is a key protein in the process of neurodegeneration. Besides motor symptoms, most PD patients additionally suffer from gastrointestinal tract (GIT) dysfunctions, even several years before the onset of motor disabilities. Studies have reported a dysbiosis of gut bacteria in PD patients compared to healthy controls and have suggested that the enteric nervous system (ENS) can be involved in the development of the disease.

Minority report: small-scale metagenomic analysis of the non-bacterial kitchen sponge microbiota.

Kitchen sponges are particularly well known to harbor a high number and diversity of bacteria, including pathogens. Viruses, archaea, and eukaryotes in kitchen sponges, however, have not been examined in detail so far. To increase knowledge on the non-bacterial kitchen sponge microbiota and its potential hygienic relevance, we investigated five used kitchen sponges by means of metagenomic shot-gun sequencing.

Using autofluorescence for microplastic detection - Heat treatment increases the autofluorescence of microplastics1.

Introduction: More and more researchers are studying the effects of microplastics on the environment and the organisms living in it. Existing detection methods still require a heavy workload, complex sample preparation and high costs. In this study, autofluorescence of plastic was used as a new method for microplastic detection.