Core Insights - The article emphasizes the critical role of microorganisms in sustainable development and highlights the urgent need for their recognition in global environmental policies [5][6]. Group 1: Importance of Microorganisms - Microorganisms, despite constituting only about 10% of the Earth's total biomass, play an indispensable role in biodiversity conservation, climate regulation, food security, water sanitation, and human health [5]. - The lack of direct representation of microorganisms in the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and multilateral treaties indicates a significant oversight that needs to be addressed [5]. Group 2: Environmental Challenges - Global warming accelerates soil microbial mineralization of organic carbon, releasing greenhouse gases that exacerbate climate change and increase the risk of vector-borne diseases, threatening human health [5]. Group 3: Upcoming Event - A Cell Press Live event will gather top researchers in China to discuss the urgent challenges and cutting-edge scientific solutions regarding microorganisms in various ecosystems [6][8]. Group 4: Featured Research Presentations - Research presentations will cover topics such as microbial adaptation strategies in extreme environments, the role of volatile compounds in soil immunity, and methane emission mechanisms in mangrove wetlands [14][18][22]. Group 5: Researcher Profiles - Notable researchers include Xiao Xiang from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, who has pioneered deep-sea microbial research, and Hu Lingfei from Zhejiang University, focusing on soil-root interactions in dense planting systems [12][16][20].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant contributions of Xu Jianguo, a prominent figure in pathogen research and disease control in China, emphasizing the need for advanced capabilities in discovering new pathogens and continuous technological innovation in the face of emerging infectious diseases [1][2]. Group 1: Pathogen Research and Disease Control - Xu Jianguo has dedicated over 40 years to the mission of pathogen detection and disease control, emphasizing the importance of being proactive in identifying dangerous pathogens [2]. - In 1999, Xu played a crucial role in identifying the pathogen responsible for an outbreak of hemorrhagic colitis, demonstrating the importance of rapid response and accurate diagnosis in controlling infectious diseases [3][4]. - The establishment of a reserve catalog of 80 rare pathogens in 2004 was a strategic move to prepare for future challenges posed by emerging infectious diseases [5]. Group 2: Technological Advancements and Innovations - The Chinese disease control system has shown resilience, with the average reporting time for infectious diseases reduced to 4 hours, and a network capable of identifying over 300 pathogens within 72 hours [5]. - Over the past decade, Xu's team has discovered more than 150 new bacteria and over 20 new viruses, showcasing the continuous innovation in pathogen research [6]. - The ability to decode the genomes of unknown microorganisms rapidly is crucial for transforming reactive disease control into proactive measures [6]. Group 3: Commitment to Public Health - Xu Jianguo emphasizes the commitment of Chinese disease control professionals to protect public health, stating their willingness to work diligently behind the scenes to safeguard lives [6]. - The article reflects on the historical evolution of disease control efforts in China, from rudimentary methods to advanced mobile laboratories, highlighting the dedication of past and present scientists [6].

Core Viewpoint - The event led by Academician Gao Fu emphasizes the dual role of microorganisms in human health, portraying them as both friends and foes, and aims to educate children about the importance of microbes in daily life and health [3][5]. Group 1: Event Overview - The event took place at Peking University, focusing on the relationship between microorganisms and human health, particularly in the context of children's understanding [1][3]. - Gao Fu utilized his popular science books to explain complex scientific concepts in an engaging manner, making the information accessible to young audiences [3][5]. Group 2: Educational Content - The discussion highlighted beneficial aspects of microorganisms, such as their roles in food production (soy sauce, vinegar, bread) and medical advancements (vaccines) [3]. - Gao Fu described the historical context of human interaction with microorganisms, framing it as a narrative of struggle and scientific application [3]. Group 3: Interactive Engagement - The event included an interactive Q&A session where children actively participated by asking questions about bacteria and viruses, demonstrating their curiosity and engagement [3]. - Gao Fu encouraged children to observe their surroundings and enjoy reading, promoting a culture of inquiry and learning [3].