gut-microbiota-engineering
Gut-microbiota engineering involves the deliberate modification and optimization of microbial communities associated with plant roots and soil to enhance plant health and productivity. This approach is significant for plant science because the root microbiome critically influences nutrient acquisition, disease resistance, and stress tolerance. By strategically engineering these microbial assemblages, researchers can develop more resilient and productive crops while reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
PubMed · 2026-03-21
Scientists are developing tiny particles extracted from plants that can treat ulcerative colitis, a chronic gut inflammation. These plant-based nanoparticles are safe, naturally biocompatible, and work by reducing inflammation and restoring healthy gut bacteria.
Isolation uses centrifugation methods (ultracentrifugation, differential/density gradient centrifugation) to extract plant-derived exosome-like nanovesicles
PDELNs reduce colitis through three mechanisms: potent anti-inflammatory effects, gut microbiota remodeling, and immune response regulation via plant microRNAs and metabolites
PDELNs demonstrate excellent safety profile with zero reported toxicity, making them viable for clinical translation