Journal of Advances in Microbiology

Can Akkermansia muciniphila Serve as a Prognostic Indicator of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus? A Narrative Review

Niya Mahale — 2026-01-24

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a heterogeneous metabolic disorder characterized by progressive dysglycemia, insulin resistance, and variable trajectories of complications. In parallel with advances in host genomics and metabolomics, the gut microbiome has emerged as a candidate layer of biological information that may refine risk stratification and prognosis. Among gut taxa repeatedly linked to metabolic health, Akkermansia muciniphila—a mucin-degrading bacterium residing near the intestinal mucus layer—has attracted exceptional interest because of its mechanistic plausibility, consistent inverse associations with metabolic dysfunction, and early translational evidence from human supplementation studies. This narrative review evaluates whether A. muciniphila can credibly serve as a prognostic indicator for T2DM onset, progression, or therapeutic response. We synthesize evidence from metagenomic case–control studies, cross-cohort meta-analyses, longitudinal datasets, and interventional trials, with special attention to confounding by antidiabetic drugs, strain-level heterogeneity within Akkermansia, and analytic considerations relevant to biomarker development. Across studies, lower A. muciniphila abundance is commonly associated with T2DM and related phenotypes, while baseline abundance may modify responses to microbiome-targeted and metabolic interventions. However, the pathway from association to validated prognostic biomarker is constrained by variability in assays, geography, and diet-linked ecology, medication confounding (notably metformin), and incomplete understanding of the clinically relevant strain/functions. We conclude that A. muciniphila is best viewed as a promising component of multivariable prognostic models rather than a stand-alone marker, with near-term utility most plausible for predicting metabolic response phenotypes and for refining risk scores in prediabetes and early T2DM. Future progress will depend on prospective, multi-ethnic longitudinal cohorts with repeated sampling, standardized quantification methods, and external validation of prediction models that explicitly incorporate medication exposure. Parallel development of strain-level or function-based assays will be critical to convert a promising ecological signal into a clinically reliable prognostic tool.

Optimization of Ginger and Honey Based Wine Production Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Gauri Singh — 2026-01-31

Ginger-honey wine, a fusion of flavor and potential health benefits, has garnered attention as a unique and enjoyable beverage. Fermentation of this mixture was carried out using Saccharomyces cerevisiae. To optimise the fermentation process, several critical factors such as inoculum size, pH, temperature, substrate concentration, and incubation period were tested individually in shake flasks. After fermentation, efficiency was measured by analysing the levels of alcohol produced and the residual sugar. The amount of alcohol was measured through dichromate titration, and the remaining reducing sugars were determined using the DNSA method. The optimal inoculum size on the 6^th day of incubation yielded an impressive 14% alcohol. A pH of 4.5 on the 3^rd day of incubation resulted in the highest alcohol production (10.5%), and at 30ºC on the 3^rd day yielded maximum alcohol (11.2%). 60 ml substrate produces the maximum alcohol (14.2%) on the 9^th day of incubation. The incubation duration was found to be pivotal, with the 6^th day yielding the highest alcohol content (14.2%). Sensory evaluation of the ginger-honey wine was performed by semi-trained panellists using a nine-point Hedonic scale to assess aroma, taste, mouthfeel, color, and overall acceptability. The distinct attributes of ginger were accentuated by the wine's sweetness and spiciness, offering an enjoyable sensory experience. This research underscores the potential for small-scale ginger-honey wine production, making it accessible for immediate consumption. Our findings reveal key fermentation factors and sensory traits, emphasising this unique beverage's appeal and potential health advantages. This study aimed to optimise the production of ginger honey-based wine through a meticulous examination of fermentation parameters and sensory attributes.

Antibiotic Sensitivity Pattern of Streptococcus Isolates from Bovine Mastitis in Wayanad District of Kerala, India

Jishnu B — 2026-02-07

Aims: The study was carried out to assess the occurrence and biofilm production ability of mastitis causing streptococci and its antimicrobial resistance pattern from cases of clinical bovine mastitis in dairy cows of Wayanad district, Kerala.

Study Design: A cross-sectional study based on bacteriological and laboratory investigation of milk samples.

Place and Duration of Study: Milk samples were collected from dairy farms and rural households in Wayanad district, Kerala. The samples were processed in the Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala during the study period.

Methodology: A total of 104 milk samples were aseptically collected from cows showing clinical signs of mastitis. Samples were cultured on Brain Heart Infusion agar and examined using standard microbiological procedures. Presumptive identification of Streptococcus spp. was done based on colony characteristics, Gram staining and standard biochemical tests, followed by molecular confirmation by polymerase chain reaction targeting the 16S rRNA gene. Biofilm formation was detected using the Congo Red Agar method. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method on Mueller–Hinton agar according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines and the resultant patterns were analysed. Isolates showing resistance to three or more antimicrobial classes were considered multidrug resistant.

Results: Among the 104 bacterial isolates obtained, 90 (86.54%) were Gram-positive cocci, of which 19 (18.26%) were identified as Streptococcus spp. on PCR (317bp amplicons). Biofilm production was observed in 17 isolates (89.47%), although the intensity of biofilm formation varied. Antibiotic sensitivity test showed that isolates showed the 78.95% of the isolates were resistant to tetracycline, followed by enrofloxacin and amoxicillin–clavulanate (57.89%). Thirteen out of the nineteen streptococci were found to be multidrug resistant.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that mastitis due to biofilm-forming haemolytic streptococci is widely prevalent in the study area. Majority of the isolates were multidrug resistant, which may contribute to reduced response to therapy. Routine antimicrobial susceptibility testing and rational use of antibiotics are therefore essential for effective mastitis management.

Isolation and Characterization of Lactic Acid Bacteria from the Crop of Semi-Industrial and Traditional Chickens and Beverages Sold in the Abidjan District, Côte d’Ivoire: Probiotic Properties of Isolated Strains

Goualie Gblossi Bernadette — 2026-02-09

Probiotic microorganisms have gained increasing attention due to their potential applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and animal production industries. The intestinal microflora of poultry and traditional fermented beverages are key sources of lactic acid bacteria (LAB). This study aimed to isolate and evaluate LAB strains from broiler chickens, traditionally raised chickens, and local fermented beverages (Bandji and Tchapalo) collected in the Abidjan district (Côte d’Ivoire) during May to August 2022. A total of 36 samples (26 from poultry and 10 from fermented beverages) were collected. The isolates were tested for antimicrobial activity against multidrug-resistant Salmonella sp., sensitive Escherichia coli, ESBL-producing E. coli, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Their ability to survive under acidic conditions, tolerate bile salts, produce proteolytic and lipolytic enzymes, and adhere to epithelial cells was also evaluated.

Of the 84 isolates tested, 47 (55.95%) exhibited inhibition zones ≥ 6 mm against all pathogens. Among these, 23 (48.93%) maintained ≥ 50% survival at pH 3.5, and 18 (78.26%) survived ≥ 20% in 0.8% bile salts. Adhesion to epithelial cells ranged from 65% to 93%, with isolate 1A (from broiler chicken) showing the highest value (93%). Enzymatic activity ranged from 7–13 mm for proteolysis and 7–9 mm for lipolysis, with isolates from Bandji and Tchapalo showing the highest activities. The results indicate that the LAB strains studied possess promising probiotic properties and could potentially be used as feed additives in poultry production.

Isolation and Characterization of Bacteria with Potential as Hydrocarbon Component Degraders from Bitumen-contaminated Soil

Ohijeagbon, O.R. — 2026-02-10

Petroleum hydrocarbons are considered the main energy source and provide raw materials for many industries. There are always environmental problems in places where exploration activities take place, due majorly to spillage. Hydrocarbon contamination poses a significant ecological and health threat in the environment. In this work, bacterial isolates capable of degrading crude oil were isolated from bitumen contaminated soil in Agbabu community Ondo State. Isolation of the hydrocarbon degrading bacteria was carried out on modified minimal salt medium (MSM), with crude oil as the sole carbon source. Isolated bacteria were characterized by biochemical and molecular methods. Biodegradation experiment was carried out using different concentrations of crude oil (10%, 20%, and 30%) in broth. Residual oil was analyzed using gravimetric method and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Thirty-three (33) bacteria with the ability to use bitumen as sole carbon source were isolated. The six best hydrocarbon degrading bacteria were characterized by 16SrRNA, as Rossellomorea aquimaris, Stutzerimonas stutzeri, Pseudomonas sp1, Pseudomonas sp2, Pseudomonas cironellolis and Kocuria indica. The crude oil degrading ability of the six bacterial characterized showed that the highest degrading activity was observed in Rossellomorea aquimaris at 99%, for 10% concentration of crude oil, while the lowest degrading activity was observed in Kocuria indica at 6% for 30% of crude oil. The chromatograph spectra of the crude oil supplemented broth of the bacteria isolates showed different fractions from C₁₀ to C₄₀ interspersed with Pristane and Phytane at different quantities degraded. In conclusion, the six bacteria isolates have the ability to biodegrade crude oil at different concentrations. These bacteria could be of huge benefits for land reclamation.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Ocimum sanctum L. and Anti-mastitis Herbal Paste on Subclinical Mastitis in Cow in Different Housing Systems

Shaikh S.R. — 2026-02-12

Background and Aims: Mastitis, mammary gland inflammation, is one of the most important diseases affecting dairy cattle globally, causing significant losses to farmers. Therefore, preventive techniques, including managemental practices, need to be applied to reduce mastitis. The current study was conducted to assess prophylactic potential of O. sanctum and anti-mastitis herbal paste in subclinical mastitis in cow.

Methodology: Twenty-four HF crossbred cows diagnosed with subclinical mastitis were selected for therapeutic evaluation, while twelve healthy cows served as controls. The affected cows were randomly allocated into four treatment groups (n=6) based on housing system. Groups I (conventional housing) and II (loose housing) received Ocimum sanctum leaf powder orally, twice daily for five consecutive days. Similarly, Groups III (conventional housing) and IV (loose housing) were treated topically with an anti-mastitis paste containing Aloe vera, Curcuma longa, and lime, applied twice daily for five days.

Results: Somatic cell count (SCC) values of infected quarters showed a marked decline (P <0.05) by day 28 post-treatment with O. sanctum compared to pre-therapy levels in both conventional and loose housing systems. Similarly, SCC values were significantly reduced (P <0.05) on day 28 following herbal paste application relative to baseline values in both housing systems. Administration of powdered O. sanctum leaves resulted in therapeutic efficacies of 83.33% and 83.83% in conventional and loose housing systems, respectively. Likewise, the herbal paste demonstrated efficacy rates of 81.81% in the conventional system and 53.84% in the loose housing system. Importantly, no adverse effects or behavioral abnormalities were observed in any treated animals throughout the study period.

Conclusion: In conclusion, treatment with Ocimum sanctum leaf powder and anti-mastitis paste containing Aloe vera, Curcuma longa, and lime demonstrated promising prophylactic and therapeutic potential for managing subclinical mastitis in cows under both conventional and loose housing systems.

Long-Term Epidemiological Trends, Seasonal Dynamics and Spatial Heterogeneity of Scrub Typhus in Kerala, India: A Surveillance-Based Analysis (2012–2024)

Hariharan. R. — 2026-02-18

Scrub typhus, caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, is a major cause of acute undifferentiated febrile illness in South India. This study describes the epidemiological, seasonal, and spatial trends of scrub typhus in Kerala from 2012 to 2024 using secondary surveillance data. A total of 6,824 confirmed cases and 127 deaths were reported during the study period, yielding an overall case fatality rate of 1.86%. Disease incidence showed marked temporal fluctuations, with major peaks in 2015, 2022, and 2024, indicating persistent endemic transmission with periodic outbreaks. Seasonal analysis revealed a highly significant variation in case occurrence (χ² = 1070.5, df = 2, p < 0.001), with the highest burden during winter (47.9%) followed by the monsoon season (36.2%). Spatial analysis demonstrated pronounced geographic heterogeneity, with Trivandrum district contributing over 70% of reported cases. The findings underscore the continuing public health importance of scrub typhus in Kerala and highlight the need for strengthened surveillance, early diagnosis, and targeted district-specific control strategies.

Optimization of Antigen Concentrations to Improve the Signal-to-Noise Ratio of ELISA Tests for the Detection of Anti-Plasmodium falciparum Antibodies

Nicolas OUEDRAOGO — 2026-02-19

Malaria, caused by the parasite Plasmodium falciparum, remains a major public health priority in tropical regions. The Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for detecting anti-Plasmodium antibodies is an essential diagnostic tool. However, its sensitivity and specificity are closely dependent on the concentration of antigens used.

This study aimed to determine the optimal antigen concentration for seven P. falciparum antigens (AMA1, MSP1, GLURP, CSP, EBA175, MSP3, and EXP1) in order to optimize the signal-to-background noise ratio of indirect ELISA tests. To achieve this, titration microplates were coated with serial dilutions of each antigen (from 2 µg/ml to 0.0625 µg/ml), incubated with patient sera, and then developed using conjugated secondary antibodies. Each antigen concentration was tested in duplicate wells (n=2), using Hyper-Immune Tanzanian (HIT) plasma at antigen-specific dilutions (e.g., 1:200 for CSP/MSP1, 1: 10,000 for EXP1), alongside positive and negative controls. Optimal concentrations were identified by plotting titration curves of optical density (OD450) versus antigen dilution and selecting the point maximizing the signal-to-noise ratio (positive minus negative control OD). Reproducibility was ensured by calculating the coefficient of variation (CV) between duplicates, repeating tests if CV >15%.

The optimal antigen concentrations identified for improved diagnostic performance were as follows: AMA1 (1 µg/ml), MSP1 (0.18 µg/ml), GLURP (0.5 µg/ml), CSP (0.25 µg/ml), EXP1 (0.25 µg/ml), EBA175 (2 µg/ml), and MSP3 (0.5 µg/ml). These results may support the standardization of malaria diagnostic protocols and enhance the performance of serological tests.

Vertical Dynamics of Culturable Heterotrophic Bacteria Concentrations in the Water Column of Hydroelectric Reservoirs: A Case Study of Kossou, Taabo and Faé in Côte d’Ivoire

Gogbé Jean-Luc Tiémoko — 2026-02-19

Background and Aims: Bacteria play a critical role in trophic chains, particularly by decomposing organic matter into minerals that are required for phytoplankton. They are also actively devoured by zooplankton, allowing carbon to flow through the trophic chain. Several studies have examined the distribution of bacteria in the water column of marine environments, whereas far fewer investigations have focused on freshwater systems. This study aimed to characterize the distribution of heterotrophic bacteria in the water column of the Kossou, Taabo, and Faé hydroelectric reservoirs in Côte d’Ivoire.

Methodology: Water samples were collected at each sampling site over a one-year period during eight field campaigns, in 1 L bottles at the surface, at 1 m depth, and at 2 m depth using hydraulic bottles. During January (dry season) and July (rainy season) campaigns, samples were additionally collected every four (4) hours to study the nycthemeral dynamics of bacterial abundance. Heterotrophic bacteria were analyzed using culture methods.

Results: Heterotrophic bacteria concentrations were high at the water surface, at depths of 1 meter and 2 meters in April, June, July and September, which correspond to the rainy seasons. The bacterial nycthemeral distribution in the water column remained relatively similar for both the dry and rainy seasons. The only difference was that during the dry season at 18 hours, heterotrophic bacteria concentrations remained higher at the water surface and at a depth of 1 meter, whereas during the rainy season at 18 hours, bacterial concentrations generally remained low throughout the water column. Weak correlations were observed between bacteria and environmental variables, suggesting the involvement of other factors.

Conclusion: Thus, heterotrophic bacteria concentrations in the water column of the hydroelectric reservoirs studied are higher during the rainy season, and their nycthemeral distribution varies. However, this nycthemeral variation remains relatively similar for the dry and rainy seasons.