Deeksha Tripathi ^1* Rajni Garg ^2*

• ¹ Department of Microbiology, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, Rajasthan, India
• ² Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Amity School of Health Sciences, Amity University Punjab, Mohali, India

exploration of characteristics across various intracellular pathogens. These studies highlight the critical need for enhanced research to decipher the complexities of host-pathogen interactions and develop targeted interventions that mitigate human well-being while preserving ecosystem integrity.Diverse pathogenic characteristics and mechanisms of a wide array of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, protozoa, fungi and helminths, has been explored by Shukla et al.The review highlights the intricate pathogenic mechanisms employed by these organisms, emphasizing their roles in host infections. Moreover, the authors stress upon the need for further study of both harmful and beneficial microorganisms for advancing agricultural practices and public health. The dual focus on pathogenic and beneficial microorganisms aims to address health threats while leveraging their positive aspects for sustainable development (https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2024.1374438).Soni et al. discuss the morphological and metabolic diversity of bacteria, highlighting their ecological significance and implications for human health. The authors provide insights into the structure, function, and pathogenicity of bacteria based on their classification. The intricate relationship between bacterial metabolism and host interactions underscores the complexity of microbial ecology. A multifaceted interplay of factors, primarily revolving around the host's immune system, genetic predispositions, and environmental conditions, have been found to influence the host's susceptibility to bacterial infections. The authors also address the escalating challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) which poses a global threat to public health. Combatting AMR requires a comprehensive strategy that integrates human, animal, and environmental health, emphasizing the importance of "One Health" approach (https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2024.1370818).The intricate dynamics of bacterial persistence is particularly exemplified in Mycobacterium Their findings suggest that bacterial persistence is a complex phenomenon involving various metabolic pathways and stress responses. Various loci msmeg_3233 (CydA), msmeg_0719, bioB, msmeg_0392 and msmeg_2263 (hybC) were identified to play critical roles in energy production, stress management, and survival strategies, highlighting their potential as targets for novel therapeutic interventions against persistent infections. The study underscores the necessity of further research on these genes and their orthologs in M. tuberculosis to develop effective treatments for chronic infections (https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2024.1302883).Small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) form a complex regulatory network that is vital for the pathogen's adaptation, virulence, and survival within the host (https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2024.1399280). These sRNAs modulate gene expression at transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and translational levels, enabling Mtb to endure the hostile conditions within macrophages. The differential expression of key sRNAs, such as MTS2823 and DrrS, in response to stressors like hypoxia and nutrient limitation, underscores their critical role in Mtb's pathogenesis. This intricate interplay between sRNAs, transcriptional regulators, and mRNA targets highlights the complexity of Mtb's regulatory framework.Targeting specific sRNAs associated with virulence or antibiotic resistance may reveal new strategies for addressing drug-resistant tuberculosis and enhancing treatment outcomes. These explorations of host-pathogen crosstalk offer critical insights into the pathogenic mechanisms influencing host cellular processes. As research continues to unravel the multifaceted relationships between hosts and pathogens, it becomes evident that a comprehensive approach-integrating ecological, genetic, and immunological perspectivesis essential for addressing public health challenges. By focusing on both harmful and beneficial microorganisms, we can develop sustainable practices that address health threats while harnessing the positive aspects of microbial diversity. This holistic understanding will be crucial for advancing therapeutic outcomes and improving disease management strategies in the future.