• Rethinking effector translocation of the pathogen Brucella - The pathogen Brucella causes Brucellosis, a neglected zoonotic disease with a considerable impact on global health, especially in low- and middle-income countries. It spreads from animal hosts to humans and other mammals via close contact, where it creates a niche by manipulating host cell functions. The main tool for this process is the type 4 secretion system (T4SS), a nano syringe that injects effector proteins into the host cell. The study “A subset of type 4 secretion system effectors of Brucella spp. associates to outer membrane vesicles” in the Thematic Issue “Type IV secretion systems: structure, function, evolution, and role in conjugation or host pathogen interaction”  in microLife  identified a possible alternative secretion mechanism in the pathogen, as explained by Maren Ketterer in this blog.  Read the full blog here. 
  
  
• Earth Day, the soil crisis, and human well-being - Soil is often dismissed as mere “dirt”. Yet it is one of the most essential systems sustaining life on Earth. Beneath our feet exists a dynamic, living world that regulates water quality, cycles nutrients, stores carbon, and supports immense biodiversity. For this year’s Earth Day, Juan Luis Ramos and Kenneth Timmis explore soil from a fresh perspective, making clear that soil health is not an isolated environmental concern. It is the foundation of the health of the planet, and ultimately, human well-being. Read the full blog here.
  
  
• How researchers can use AI ethically and accessibly - The internet is flooded with AI-generated content, including scientific content. Unfortunately, this can reduce the quality of scientific articles, introduce inaccuracies, and weaken their ability to educate. In this blog, Sarah Wettstadt calls for Good AI Working Habits and discusses how AI fits into science communication to create engaging and high-quality content. Read the full blog here.

FEMS is inviting nominations for a President and two Trustees to join its Board for the term 1 January 2027 to 31 December 2029. The FEMS Board is composed of the President, the Secretary General, the Treasurer, and five additional Board members. As the Federation enters a new strategic phase, this is an opportunity to shape its key priorities and help guide its impact..

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