Protective effect of vaginal resveratrol administration on joint tissues in ovariectomized rats: Targeting mTOR and сaspase 3

INTRODUCTION

Estrogens play a considerable role in maintaining bone and articular cartilage homeostasis. Menopause provokes joint disorders due to metabolic syndrome and altered signaling pathways. Phytoestrogen resveratrol was demonstrated to provide chondroprotective and osteoprotective effects. However, the mechanisms of such action of Resveratrol are still being explored.

AIM

The study aims to determine the effect of Resveratrol on the joints and its therapeutic mechanism in ovariectomized rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was carried out on Wistar female rats that were divided into three groups, including control animals; ovariectomized rats (OVX); and the OVX group treated with an intravaginal gel containing Resveratrol (0.5 % 0.1 mL, daily 28 days). Knee joint tissues (articular cartilage, subchondral plate, subchondral bone) were assessed by histomorphometry. The expression of mTOR, PTEN, Caspase 3 and BCL-2 in articular cartilage and subchondral bone were evaluated immunohistochemically.

RESULTS

Resveratrol treatment of OVX rats prevented weight gain by 17 % (P < 0.001), demonstrating the systemic effect on metabolic pathways. Although there were no statistically significant differences in the thickness of articular cartilage between groups, OVX rats possessed degenerative changes in chondrocytes, associated with the enhanced expression of mTOR (P < 0.001) and Casp-3 (P = 0.005). Resveratrol decreased mTOR (P = 0.007) and Casp-3 (P = 0.011) expression in chondrocytes, reducing degenerative changes. At the same time, resveratrol attenuated the deterioration of trabecular bone in OVX rats (P = 0.002). This effect was through the up-regulation of BCL-2 (P = 0.018) and down-regulation of Casp-3 expression (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Intravaginal administration of resveratrol provided systemic effects and ameliorated joint tissue structure and signaling in OVX rats through stimulation of BCL-2 and reduced Casp-3 expression.

Efficacy of interferon alpha for the treatment of hospitalized patients with COVID-19: A meta-analysis

Introduction

IFN-α intervention may block SARS-CoV-2 replication and normalize the deregulated innate immunity of COVID-19.

Aim

This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the efficacy of interferon IFN-α-containing regimens when treating patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19.

Material and methods

PubMed, SCOPUS, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception to 15 January 2022. A systematic literature search was conducted by applying relevant terms for 'COVID-19' and 'interferon-α'. The primary outcome enclosed the all-cause hospital mortality. The secondary outcomes constituted the length of hospital stay; hospital discharge; nucleic acid negative conversion.

Results

Eleven studies are enclosed in the meta-analysis. No significant difference in the all-cause mortality rate was found between the study and control groups (OR 0.2; 95% CI 0.05-1.2; I² = 96%). The implementation of interferon did not influence such outcomes as the length of hospital stay (OR 0.9; 95% CІ, 0.3-2.6; I^{2 =} 91%), nucleic acid negative conversion (OR 0.8; 95% CI, 0.04-17.2; I^{2 =} 94%). Nevertheless, IFN-α treatment resulted in a higher number of patients discharged from the hospital (OR 26.6; 95% CІ, 2.7-254.3; I² = 95%).

Conclusions

Thus, IFN-α does not benefit the survival of hospitalized COVID-19 patients but may increase the number of patients discharged from the hospital.

Systematic review registration

www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier (CRD42022374589).

Fecal microbiota transplantation in patients with post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome: A randomized, clinical trial

Introduction

Research in recent years has shown the potential benefits of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Acute infectious gastroenteritis is a well-established risk factor for developing such forms of IBS as post-infectious IBS (PI-IBS). However, the effective use of FMT in patients with IP-IBS has not yet been clarified.

Aim

The study aimed to conduct a single-center, randomized clinical trial (RCT) to assess FMT’s safety, clinical and microbiological efficacy in patients with PI-IBS.

Materials and methods

Patients with PI-IBS were randomized into two groups: I (standard-care, n = 29) were prescribed basic therapy, namely a low FODMAP diet, as well as Otilonium Bromide (1 tablet TID) and a multi-strain probiotic (1 capsule BID) for 1 month; II (FMT group, n = 30), each patient with PI-IBS underwent a single FMT procedure with fresh material by colonoscopy. All patients underwent bacteriological examination of feces for quantitative and qualitative microbiota composition changes. The clinical efficacy of treatment was evaluated according to the dynamics of abdominal symptoms, measured using the IBS-SSS scale, fatigue reduction (FAS scale), and a change in the quality of life (IBS-QoL scale).

Results

FMT was associated with rapid onset of the effect, manifested in a significant difference between IBS-SSS points after 2 weeks of intervention (p < 0.001). In other time points (after 4 and 12 weeks) IBS-SSS did not differ significantly across both groups. Only after 3 months of treatment did their QoL exceed its initial level, as well value for 2 and 4 weeks, to a significant extent. The change in the ratio of the main microbial phenotypes in the form of an increase in the relative abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes was recorded in all patients after 4 weeks. It should be noted that these changes were significant but eventually normalized only in the group of PI-IBS patients who underwent FMT. No serious adverse reactions were noted.

Conclusion

This comparative study of the results of FMT use in patients with PI-IBS demonstrated its effectiveness compared to traditional pharmacotherapy, as well as a high degree of safety and good tolerability.

Response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer: do microRNAs matter?

BACKGROUND

Conventionally, breast cancer (BC) prognosis and prediction of response to therapy are based on TNM staging, histological and molecular subtype, as well as genetic alterations. The role of various epigenetic factors has been elucidated in carcinogenesis. However, it is still unknown to what extent miRNAs affect the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). This pilot study is focused on evaluating the role of miR-34a, miR-124a, miR-155, miR-137 and miR-373 in response to NACT.

METHODS

That was a prospective study enrolling 34 patients with histologically confirmed BC of II-III stages. The median age of patients was 53 (47-59.8) years old, 70.6% of whom were HR-positive. MiRs levels were measured in the primary tumor before and after NACT. The response to therapy was assessed after surgery using the Miller-Payne scoring system. To establish the role of miRs in modulating response to NACT the Cox model was applied for analysis.

RESULTS

BC demonstrated a great variability of miRs expression before and after NACT with no strong links to tumor stage and molecular subtype. Only miR-124a and miR-373 demonstrated differential expression between malignant and normal breast tissues before and after therapy though these distinctions did not impact response to NACT. Besides miR-124a and miR-137 levels after NACT were found to be dependent on HR status. While miR-124a levels increased (p = 0.021) in the tumor tissue, the expression of miR-137 was downregulated (p = 0.041) after NACT in HR positive BC.

CONCLUSIONS

The study revealed differences in miR-124a and miR-373 expression after NACT in primary BC tissues. Although miRs levels did not impact the response to NACT, we found miR-124a and miR-137 levels to be related to hormonal sensitivity of BC.

Effect of a specific Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 strain on minimal/mild hepatic encephalopathy treatment

BACKGROUND

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) can be considered a result of dysregulated gut-liver-brain axis function, where cognitive impairment can be reversed or prevented by the beneficial effects induced by "gut-centric" therapies, such as the administration of nonabsorbable disaccharides, nonabsorbable antibiotics, probiotics and prebiotics.

AIM

To assess the short-term efficacy and safety of the probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle (EcN) 1917 strain compared to lactulose and rifaximin in patients with minimal/mild HE.

METHODS

From January 2017 to March 2020, a total of 45 patients with HE were enrolled in this prospective, single-centre, open-label, randomized study. Participants were randomly assigned at a ratio of 1:1:1 to one of the treatment groups: The EcN group (n = 15), lactulose group (n = 15) or rifaximin group (n = 15) for a 1 mo intervention period. The main primary outcomes of the study were changes in serum ammonia and Stroop test score. The secondary outcomes were markers of a chronic systemic inflammatory response (ІL-6, ІL-8, and IFN-γ) and bacteriology of the stool flora evaluated by specialized nonculture techniques after a 1 mo intervention period.

RESULTS

Patients who were given rifaximin or EcN showed a more significant reduction in serum ammonia and normalization of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli abundance compared to the lactulose group. However, the most pronounced restoration of the symbiotic microflora was associated with EcN administration and characterized by the absence of E. coli with altered properties and pathogenic enterobacteria in patient faeces. In the primary outcome analysis, improvements in the Stroop test parameters in all intervention groups were observed. Moreover, EcN-treated patients performed 15% faster on the Stroop test than the lactulose group patients (P = 0.017). Both EcN and rifaximin produced similar significant reductions in the proinflammatory cytokines INF-γ, IL-6 and IL-8. EcN was more efficient than lactulose in reducing proinflammatory cytokine levels.

CONCLUSION

The use of the probiotic EcN strain was safe and quite efficient for HE treatment. The probiotic reduced the ammonia content and the level of serum proinflammatory cytokines, normalized the gut microbiota composition and improved the cognitive function of patients with HE. The application of the EcN strain was more effective than lactulose treatment.

Probiotics and obesity associated disease: an extended view beyond traditional strains

Interaction between intestinal microbiota and obesity is becoming abundantly according to current many scientific investigations. In this article, probiotic therapy was offered as the promising strategy of metabolic disorders control through the recovery of microbiota composition and health maintenance with the help of impact on the abovementioned mechanisms. First, this therapy is safe, with minimal side effects, well-tolerated, and appropriate for long-term use. Second, it can improve body mass, glucose, and fat metabolism, increase insulin sensitivity, and decrease systemic chronic inflammation. In conclusion, the restorative role of gut microbiota on metabolic disorders and associated diseases could open new ways in the treatment of obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.

Vitamin D3 deficiency is associated with more severe insulin resistance and metformin use in patients with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D3 (vit. D3) deficiency is considered as one of the main factors involved in the development of type 2 diabetes (T2D). We assessed insulin resistance (IR), β-cell functional activity and metabolic profile according to 25(OH) vit. D3 status in patients with T2D.

METHODS

The study included 109 patients with T2D, divided in 3 groups: group 1 (N.=11) with normal levels of vit. D3 (>30 ng/mL); group 2 (N.=38) with vit. D3 insufficiency (21-29 ng/mL); and group 3 (N.=60) with vit. D3 deficiency (<20 ng/mL). IR and β-cell functional activity were assessed as change in C-peptide concentration and homeostasis model assessment-estimated (HOMA) β-cell function which was calculated using HOMA2 calculator.

RESULTS

Patients with vit. D3 deficiency presented significantly higher C-peptide concentration compared to other groups. HOMA2 (3.29±1.89 vs. 2.12±0.71; P=0.049) and hemoglobin (H8b)A1c (9.11±1.63 vs. 7.75±1.06; P=0.016) levels changed significantly only in patients with vit. D3 deficiency compared to diabetics with normal vit. D3 levels. Furthermore, in univariate Pearson's correlation analysis, we observed significant association between vit. D3 levels and C-peptide, insulin sensitivity, HOMA2, triglyceride-glucose index, HbA1c and Body Mass Index, only in the vit. D3 deficiency group. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, poor glycemic control, as defined by HbA1c levels, was independent from metformin use while high density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels were associated with vit. D3 deficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that vit. D3 deficiency in patients with T2D was associated with more severe IR, poor glycemic control and obesity compared to normal status or vit. D3 insufficiency.

Histological differentiation impacts the tumor immune microenvironment in gastric carcinoma: Relation to the immune cycle

BACKGROUND

Various histological types of gastric carcinomas (GCs) differ in terms of their pathogenesis and their preexisting background, both of which could impact the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). However, the current understanding of the immune contexture of GC is far from complete.

AIM

To clarify the tumor-host immune interplay through histopathological features and the tumor immune cycle concept.

METHODS

In total, 50 GC cases were examined (15 cases of diffuse GC, 31 patients with intestinal-type GC and 4 cases of mucinous GC). The immunophenotype of GC was assessed and classified as immune desert (ID), immune excluded (IE) or inflamed (Inf) according to CD8+ cell count and spatial pattern. In addition, CD68+ and CD163+ macrophages and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression were estimated.

RESULTS

We found that GCs with different histological differentiation demonstrated distinct immune contexture. Most intestinal-type GCs had inflamed TIMEs rich in both CD8+ cells and macrophages. In contrast, more aggressive diffuse-type GC more often possessed ID characteristics with few CD8+ lymphocytes but abundant CD68+ macrophages, while mucinous GC had an IE-TIME with a prevalence of CD68+ macrophages and CD8+ lymphocytes in the peritumor stroma. PD-L1 expression prevailed mostly in intestinal-type Inf-GC, with numerous CD163+ cells observed. Therefore, GCs of different histological patterns have specific mechanisms of immune escape. While intestinal-type GC was more often related to PD-L1 expression, diffuse and mucinous GCs possessing more aggressive behavior demonstrated low immunogenicity and a lack of tumor antigen recognition or immune cell recruitment into the tumor clusters.

CONCLUSION

These data help to clarify the links between tumor histogenesis and immunogenicity for a better understanding of GC biology and more tailored patient management.

Importance of the Microbiota Inhibitory Mechanism on the Warburg Effect in Colorectal Cancer Cells

METHODS AND RESULTS

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in the world. Genetic backgrounds, lifestyle, and diet play an important role in CRC risk. The human gut microbiota has an influence on many features of human physiology such as metabolism, nutrient absorption, and immune function. Imbalance of the microbiota has been implicated in many disorders including CRC. It seems Warburg effect hypothesis corresponds to the early beginning of carcinogenesis because of eventual failure in the synthesis of a pyruvate dehydrogenase complex in cooperation with a supply of glucose in carbohydrates rich diets. From investigation among previous publications, we attempted to make it clear importance of Warburg effect in tumors; it also discusses the mechanisms of probiotics in inhibiting tumor progression and reverse Warburg effect of probiotics in modulating the microbiota and CRC therapies. These effects were observed in some clinical trials, the application of probiotics as a therapeutic agent against CRC still requirements further investigation.

CONCLUSION

Fiber is fermented by colonic bacteria into SCFAs such as butyrate/acetate, which may play a vital role in normal homeostasis by promoting turnover of the colonic epithelium. Butyrate enters the nucleus and functions as a histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi). Because cancerous colonocytes undertake the Warburg effect pathway, their favored energy source is glucose instead of butyrate. Therefore, accumulation of moderate concentrations of butyrate in cancerous colonocytes and role as HDACi. Probiotics have been shown to play a protective role against cancer development by modulating intestinal microbiota and immune response.

Mechanisms of the Impact of Hashimoto Thyroiditis on Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Progression: Relationship with the Tumor Immune Microenvironment

BACKGROUND

The relationship between Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) and papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) remains uncertain. We assessed the impact of HT on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in PTC.

METHODS

Thirty patients with PTC (group 1) and 30 patients with PTC and HT (group 2) were enrolled in this pilot study. The distribution and number of CD8+ lymphocytes, plasma cells (CD138+), regulatory T cells (forkhead box P3 [FOXP3+)], mast cell tryptase (MCT+), and M2 macrophages (CD163+) were evaluated. To test the hypothesis that HT impacts PTC development via signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) activation and M2 macrophage polarization, we investigated STAT6 expression in tumor and stromal cells. We also evaluated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression by lymph node metastasis (LNM) status.

RESULTS

TIME showed significant between-group differences. Group 1 patients demonstrated immune desert or immune-excluded immunophenotypes, while an inflamed phenotype with more CD8+ cells (P&lt;0.001) predominated in group 2. Immune-excluded TIME was associated with the highest LNM rate. In PTC, LNM was associated with more numerous CD163+ cells. Moreover, LNM in group 1 was associated with increased numbers of mast cells peritumorally and FOXP3+ cells intratumorally and peritumorally. Group 2 demonstrated higher STAT6 but not higher VEGF expression in tumor cells. High VEGF expression was associated with LNM regardless of HT status.

CONCLUSION

Concomitant HT impacted PTC signaling via STAT6 and TIME by increasing the number of CD8+ cells. LNM is associated with increases in CD163+ cells and VEGF expression in PTC, whereas HT affected LNM through different mechanisms.

New insights on strain-specific impacts of probiotics on insulin resistance: evidence from animal study

Background and aims

сomparative animal study of effectiveness of intermittent administration of lyophilized single-, three- and alive multistrain probiotic in short courses on insulin resistance (IR) in rats with experimental obesity.

Methods

70 rats were divided into 7 groups (n = 10 in each). Rats of group I were left intact. Newborn rats in groups II-VII were administered monosodium glutamate (MSG) (4 mg/g) by injection. Rats in group II (MSG-obesity group) were left untreated. The rats in groups III-V received lyophilized mono-probiotics B.animalis VKL, B.animalis VKB, L.casei IMVB-7280 respectively. The rats in group VI received all three of these probiotic strains mixed together. Group VII was treated with multi-probiotic "Symbiter", containing 14 different live probiotic strains (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Propionibacterium, Acetobacter genera).

Results

Treatment of newborn rats with MSG lead to the development of obesity in all MSG-obesity rats and up to 20-70% after probiotic administration. Additions to probiotic composition, with preference to alive strains (group VII), led to significantly lower rates of obesity, decrease in HOMA-IR (p < 0.001), proinflammatory cytokines levels - IL-1β (p = 0.003), IL-12Bp40 (p < 0.001) and elevation of adiponectin (p = 0.003), TGF-β (p = 0.010) in comparison with MSG-obesity group. Analysis of results in groups treated with single-strain probiotics (groups III-V) shows significant decrease in HOMA-IR, but changes were less pronounced as compared to mixture groups and did not achieve intact rats level. Other metabolic parameters were not affected significantly by single strains.

Conclusion

Our findings provide major clues for how to design and use probiotics with more efficient compositions in obesity and IR management and may bring new insights into how host-microbe interactions contribute to such protective effects.

A Multi-strain Probiotic Reduces the Fatty Liver Index, Cytokines and Aminotransferase levels in NAFLD Patients: Evidence from a Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Probiotics have a beneficial effect on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in animal models. Randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) in NAFLD are still lacking in humans despite a large number of data from animal research.

AIM

We performed a double-blind single center RCT of live multi-strain probiotic vs. placebo in type 2 diabetes patients with NAFLD.

METHODS

A total of 58 patients met the criteria for inclusion. They were randomly assigned to receive the multi-probiotic "Symbiter" (concentrated biomass of 14 probiotic bacteria genera Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Propionibacterium) or placebo for 8-weeks administered as a sachet formulation in double-blind treatment. The primary main outcomes were the changes in fatty liver index (FLI) and liver stiffness (LS) measured by Shear Wave Elastography (SWE). Secondary outcomes were the changes in aminotransferase activity, serum lipids and cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and IFN-γ) levels. Analysis of covariance was used to assess the difference between groups.

RESULTS

In the probiotic group, FLI significantly decreased from 84.33+/-2.23 to 78.73+/-2.58 (p<0.001) but it did not change in the placebo group (82.57+/-2.45 to 81.6 +/-2.36; p=0.367). In both groups a slight but not significant reduction of LS measured by SWE was detected. Analysis of the secondary outcomes showed that probiotics reduced the level of serum AST and GGT. Among the markers of chronic systemic inflammatory state, only TNF-α and IL-6 levels changed significantly after the treatment with the probiotic.

CONCLUSION

The probiotic "Symbiter" reduces liver fat, aminotransferase activity, and the TNF-α and IL-6 levels in NAFLD patients. Modulation of the gut microbiota might represent a new therapy for NAFLD, which should be tested in larger studies.

Crosstalk between gut microbiota and antidiabetic drug action

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a disorder characterized by chronic inflated blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia), at first due to insulin resistance and unregulated insulin secretion but with tendency towards global spreading. The gut microbiota is recognized to have an influence on T2D, although surveys have not formed a clear overview to date. Because of the interactions between gut microbiota and host homeostasis, intestinal bacteria are believed to play a large role in various diseases, including metabolic syndrome, obesity and associated disease. In this review, we highlight the animal and human studies which have elucidated the roles of metformin, α-glucosidase inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors γ agonists, inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase-4, sodium/glucose cotransporter inhibitors, and other less studied medications on gut microbiota. This review is dedicated to one of the most widespread diseases, T2D, and the currently used antidiabetic drugs and most promising new findings. In general, the gut microbiota has been shown to have an influence on host metabolism, food consumption, satiety, glucose homoeostasis, and weight gain. Altered intestinal microbiota composition has been noticed in cardiovascular diseases, colon cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, T2D, and obesity. Therefore, the main effect of antidiabetic drugs is on the microbiome composition, basically increasing the short-chain fatty acids-producing bacteria, responsible for losing weight and suppressing inflammation.

Neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers treated with cerium dioxide nanoparticles: A case report

Wound healing in diabetes is frequently impaired and its treatment remains a challenge. The ability of topical application of cerium (Ce) dioxide nanoparticles (CNPs) to accelerate wound healing in an animal model provides a rationale to develop this technology for use in humans affected by traumatic injury, diabetes and burns. We first described a case report of successful topical treatment of neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers with novel gel containing CNPs. The CNPs has bacteriostatic activity, anti-inflammatory properties and can penetrated into the wound tissue and reduced oxidative damage therefore protect regenerative tissue, suggesting a therapeutic potential for topical treatment of diabetic foot ulcers.

The effects of Z56822977 on biosynthesis of serotonin in the brain of rats in the conditions of MSG-induced obesity

Wstęp: Badanie przeprowadzono w celu wyjaśnienia wpływu Z56822977 na biosyntezę serotoniny w mózgu szczurów z otyłością wy-wołaną podawaniem glutaminianu sodu (monosodium glutamate, MSG). Materiał i metody: W badaniu wykorzystano 18 samców szczura. Zwierzęta podzielono na trzy grupy: 1 - grupa kontrolna, 2 - grupa MSG, 3 - grupa MSG + Z56822977. Szczurzym oseskom w grupie 2 i 3 podawano podskórnie MSG rozpuszczony w soli fizjologicznej w dawce 4 mg/g masy ciała w objętości 8 μl/g w 2., 4., 6., 8. i 10. dniu życia. Grupie 3 podawano doustnie wodny roztwór Z56822977 w dawce 25 mg/kg w objętości 1 ml/kg. Pierwszą dawkę Z56822977 podawano po ukończeniu 4 tygodni życia, a następnie kontynuowa-no podawanie badanej substancji cyklicznie wedlug schematu tydzień podawania substancji badanej/3 tygodnie przerwy. Zwierzętom z grupy MSG podawano odpowiednio 1 ml/kg wody doustnie. Przez pierwsze 4 miesiące życia szczury otrzymywały standardową karmę. Zmierzono zawartość serotoniny, tryptofanu i 5-hydroksytryptofanu (5-HTr) oraz aktywność hydroksylazy tryptofanowej (tryptophan hydroxylase, TRH), dekarboksylazy aminokwasów (amino acid decarboxylase, AADC) i monoaminooksydazy (MAO) w tkance mózgowej. WYNIKI: Wykazano, że podawanie Z56822977 ma pozytywny wpływ na główne wskaźniki otyłości, co odzwierciedlają zmiany podsta-wowych parametrów fizjologicznych i biochemicznych [zmniejszenie masy ciała o 13% vs. MSG (p < 0,05); zmniejszenie wskaźnika masy ciała (body mass index, BMI), wskaźnika Lee oraz masy tkanki tłuszczowej trzewnej odpowiednio o 18%, 7% i 55%, (p < 0,05) w porównaniu z grupą MSG]. Zawartość tryptofanu i serotoniny była istotnie niższa (p < 0,05) u szczurów z otyłością wywołaną przez MSG. W badaniach wykazano, że u otyłych szczurów aktywność MAO zwiększa się o 97% (p < 0,05), a aktywność TRH i AADC odpowiednio o 44% i 53% (p < 0,05). Podawanie Z56822977 powodowało zwiększenie zawartości serotoniny i tryptofanu w mózgach szczurów i przywracało poziom aktywności enzymów (MAO, TRH, AADC) do wartości mierzonych u zwierząt kontrolnych. WNIOSKI: Wiadomo, że otyłość wiąże się z zaburzeniem syntezy serotoniny w mózgu szczurów. Jednak podawanie Z56822977 prowadzi do normalizacji stężenia serotoniny i tryptofanu oraz przywrócenia prawidłowej aktywności enzymów uczestniczących w biosynte-zie i degradacji serotoniny. Podawanie Z56822977, cząsteczki wpływającej na układ serotoninergiczny, może powodować korzystne efekty w leczeniu otyłości wywołanej przez MSG u szczurów. Można rozważać zastosowanie cząsteczki Z56822977 jako nowego leku stosowanego w otyłości, jednak konieczne są dalsze badania w celu potwierdzenia jej działania.

Efficacy of Probiotics and Smectite in Rats with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

INTRODUCTION AND AIM

Today probiotics have been suggested as a treatment for the prevention of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Smectite is a natural silicate that binds to digestive mucous and has the ability to bind endo- and exotoxins. The present study was designed to determine whether probiotics plus smectite is superior to probiotic alone on the monosodium glutamate (MSG) induced NAFLD model in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We included 60 rats divided into 4 groups 15 animals in each. Rats of group I were intact. Newborns rats of groups II-IV were injected with MSG. The III (Symbiter) group received 2.5 ml/kg of multiprobiotic "Symbiter" containing concentrated biomass of 14 probiotic bacteria genera. The IV (Symbiter+Smectite) groups received "Symbiter Forte" combination of probiotic biomass with smectite gel (250 mg).

RESULTS

In both interventional groups reduction of total NAS score as compared to MSG-obesity was observed. Indeed similar values of steatosis score (0.93 ± 0.22 vs. 0.87 ± 0.16) in both treatment groups, we observed that lower total score for Symbiter+ Smectite are associated with more pronounced reduction of lobular inflammation (0.13 ± 0.09 vs. 0.33 ± 0.15) as compared to administration of probiotic alone. This data accompanied with significant reduction of IL-1 and restoration of IL-10 between these 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Additional to alive probiotic administration of smectite gel due to his absorbent activity and mucus layer stabilization properties can impact on synergistic enhancement of single effect which manifested with reduction of lobular inflammation and at list partly steatohepatitis prevention.

Obeticholic Acid: A New Era in the Treatment of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

The main treatments for patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are currently based on lifestyle changes, including ponderal decrease and dietary management. However, a subgroup of patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), who are unable to modify their lifestyle successfully, may benefit from pharmaceutical support. Several drugs targeting pathogenic mechanisms of NAFLD have been evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of NASH. Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a nuclear key regulator controlling several processes of the hepatic metabolism. NAFLD has been proven to be associated with abnormal FXR activity. Obeticholic acid (OCA) is a first-in-class selective FXR agonist with anticholestatic and hepato-protective properties. Currently, OCA is registered for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis. However, promising effects of OCA on NASH and its metabolic features have been reported in several studies.

Beneficial effects of probiotic combination with omega-3 fatty acids in NAFLD: a randomized clinical study

BACKGROUND

The manipulation of gut microbiota via administration of probiotics has been proposed as a potential strategy for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Hence, we performed a double-blind single center randomized placebo-controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the efficacy of coadministration of probiotics with omega-3 vs. placebo in type-2 diabetic patients with NAFLD.

METHODS

A total of 48 patients met the criteria for inclusion. They were randomly assigned to receive "Symbiter Omega" combination of probiotic biomass supplemented with flax and wheat germ oil (250 mg of each, concentration of omega-3 fatty acids 1-5%) or placebo for 8-weeks. The primary main outcomes were the change in fatty liver index (FLI) and liver stiffness (LS) measured by Shear Wave Elastography (SWE). Secondary outcomes were the changes in transaminases level, serum lipids and cytokines levels.

RESULTS

In probiotic-omega group, FLI significantly decreased from 83.53±2.60 to 76.26±2.96 (P<0.001) while no significant changes were observed in the placebo group (82.86±2.45 to 81.09±2.84; P=0.156). Changes of LS in both groups were insignificant. Analysis of secondary outcomes showed that the coadministration of probiotics with omega-3 lead to significant reduction of serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. Chronic systemic inflammatory markers after intervention decrease significantly only in Symbiter Omega group: IL-1β (P=0.029), TNF-α (P<0.001), IL-8 (P=0.029), IL-6 (P=0.003), and INF-γ (P=0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

Coadministration of a live multi-strain probiotic mixture with omega-3 fatty acids once daily for 8 weeks to patients with NAFLD can reduce liver fat, improve serum lipids, metabolic profile, and reduce chronic systemic inflammatory state.

Effect of alive probiotic on insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes patients: Randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Probiotics have beneficial effect on obesity related disorders in animal models. Despite a large number of animal data, randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCT) concluded that probiotics have a moderate effect on glycemic control-related parameters. However, effect of probiotics on insulin resistance are inconsistent.

AIM

In a double-blind single center RCT, effect of alive multistrain probiotic vs. placebo on insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes patient were assessed.

METHODS

A total of 53 patients met the criteria for inclusion. They were randomly assigned to receive multiprobiotic "Symbiter" (concentrated biomass of 14 probiotic bacteria genera Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Propionibacterium) or placebo for 8-weeks administered as a sachet formulation. The primary main outcome was the change HOMA-IR (homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance) which calculated using Matthews et al.'s equation. Secondary outcomes were the changes in glycemic control-related parameters, anthropomorphic variables and cytokines.

RESULTS

Supplementation with alive multiprobiotic for 8 weeks was associated with significant reduction of HOMA-IR from 6.85 ± 0.76 to 5.13 ± 0.49 (p = 0.047), but remained static in the placebo group. With respect to our secondary outcomes, HbA1c insignificant decreased by 0.09% (p = 0.383) and 0.24% (p = 0.068) respectively in placebo and probiotics groups. However, in probiotic responders (n = 22, patient with decrease in HOMA-IR) after supplementation a significant reduction in HbA1c by 0.39% (p = 0.022) as compared to non-responders was observed. In addition, from markers of chronic systemic inflammatory state only TNF-α and IL-1β changes significantly after treatment with probiotics.

CONCLUSION

Probiotic therapies modestly improved insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Probiotics and nutraceuticals as a new frontier in obesity prevention and management

INTRODUCTION

The beneficial interaction between the microbiota and humans is how bacteria contained within the gut 'talk' to the immune system and in this landscape, probiotics and nutraceuticals play a major role. The study aims to determine whether probiotics plus nutraceuticals such as smectite or omega-3 are superior to probiotic alone on the monosodium glutamate (MSG) induced obesity model in rats.

METHODS

Totally, 75 rats divided into five groups were included (n = 15, in each). Rats in group I were intact. Newborn rats in groups II-V were injected with MSG. Group III (Symbiter) received 2.5 ml/kg of multiprobiotic "Symbiter" containing concentrated biomass of 14 probiotic bacteria genera. Groups IV (Symbiter-Omega) and V (Symbiter-Smectite) received a combination of probiotic biomass supplemented with flax and wheat germ oil (250 mg of each, concentration of omega-3 fatty acids 1-5%) or smectite gel (250 mg), respectively.

RESULTS

In all interventional groups, significant reductions of total body and visceral adipose tissue weight as compared to MSG-obesity were observed. However, the lowest prevalence of obesity was noted for Symbiter-Omega (20% vs 33.3% as compared to other interventional groups). Moreover, supplementation of probiotics with omega-3 lead to a more pronounced decrease in HOMA-IR (2.31 ± 0.13 vs 4.02 ± 0.33, p < 0.001) and elevation of adiponectin levels (5.67 ± 0.39 vs 2.61 ± 0.27, P < 0.001), compared to the obesity group.

CONCLUSION

Probiotics and nutraceuticals led to a significantly lower prevalence of obesity, reduction of insulin resistance, total and VAT weight. Our study demonstrated that supplementation of probiotics with omega-3 may have the most beneficial antiobesity properties.

Probiotics Supplemented with Omega-3 Fatty Acids are More Effective for Hepatic Steatosis Reduction in an Animal Model of Obesity

Today probiotics have been suggested as a treatment for the prevention of NAFLD. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may have beneficial effects in regulating hepatic lipid metabolism, adipose tissue function and inflammation. The present study was designed to determine whether probiotics plus omega-3 are superior to probiotics alone on the monosodium glutamate (MSG)-induced NAFLD model in rats. We included 60 rats divided into four groups, 15 animals in each. Rats of group I were intact. Newborn rats of groups II-IV were injected with MSG. The III (Symbiter) group received 2.5 ml/kg of multiprobiotic "Symbiter" containing concentrated biomass of 14 probiotic bacteria genera. The IV (Symbiter-Omega) groups received "Symbiter-Omega" combination of probiotic biomass supplemented with flax and wheat germ oil (250 mg of each, concentration of omega-3 fatty acids 1-5 %). In both interventional groups reduction in total NAS score was observed. Supplementation of alive probiotic mixture with omega-3 fatty acids lead to 20 % higher decrease in steatosis score (0.73 ± 0.11 vs 0.93 ± 0.22, p = 0.848) and reduction by 16.6 % of triglycerides content in liver as compared to probiotic alone. Our study demonstrated more pronounced reduction in hepatic steatosis and hepatic lipid accumulation after treatment with combination of alive probiotics and omega-3 as compared to probiotics alone.

Pathophysiological role of host microbiota in the development of obesity

Overweight and obesity increase the risk for a number of diseases, namely, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, premature death, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease as well as different types of cancer. Approximately 1.7 billion people in the world suffer from being overweight, most notably in developed countries. Current research efforts have focused on host and environmental factors that may affect energy balance. It was hypothesized that a microbiota profile specific to an obese host with increased energy-yielding behavior may exist. Consequently, the gut microbiota is becoming of significant research interest in relation to obesity in an attempt to better understand the aetiology of obesity and to develop new methods of its prevention and treatment. Alteration of microbiota composition may stimulate development of obesity and other metabolic diseases via several mechanisms: increasing gut permeability with subsequent metabolic inflammation; increasing energy harvest from the diet; impairing short-chain fatty acids synthesis; and altering bile acids metabolism and FXR/TGR5 signaling. Prebiotics and probiotics have physiologic functions that contribute to the health of gut microbiota, maintenance of a healthy body weight and control of factors associated with obesity through their effects on mechanisms that control food intake, body weight, gut microbiota and inflammatory processes.

Prevention of NAFLD development in rats with obesity via the improvement of pro/antioxidant state by cerium dioxide nanoparticles

BACKGROUND

One of the pathogenic mechanisms of the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, which in turn aggravates the disease progress. We have investigated novel cerium dioxide nanoparticles (nCeO2) due to their promising antioxidant auto-regenerative ability and low toxicity.

METHODS

30 white male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups: control, monosodium glutamate (MSG)-induced obesity and MSG treated with nCeO2 (MSG+nCeO2) groups. Newborn rats of control group were injected with saline (control). MSG- and MSG+nCeO2 groups were injected with MSG (4 mg/g concentration, 8 μl/g volume) between the 2nd and the 10th days of life subcutaneously [13]. At the age of 1 month, rats of group II were administered water 2.9 ml/kg orally, MSG+nCeO2 group received 1 mM solution of nCeO2 1 mg/kg orally. 4-months rats were sacrificed and the liver was harvested for histological and biochemical analysis. To assess the morphological changes in the liver we used NAS (NAFLD activity score). The content of lipid peroxidation products and enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase in the liver were studied by standard biochemical methods [Refs].

RESULTS

In 4-month rats we found significantly lower total score (1.3±0.26 vs 3.6±0.34, p<0.001), degree of steatosis (1.1±0.18 vs 2.1±0.18, p<0.001), manifestation of lobular inflammation (0.2±0.13 vs 1.2±0.2, p<0.001) and ballooning degeneration (0.0±0.0 vs 0.3±0.15, p=0.034) due to NAS in the nCeO2 group compared to the MSG-group. nCeO2 significantly decreased lipid peroxidation in the liver tissue, namely it reduced the conjugated dienes content by 27% (p<0.05), TBA-products - by 43% (p<0.05) and Schiff bases - by 21% (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Due to its antioxidant properties nCeO2 significantly reduces the incidence of NASH and improves the main NAFLD histological features.

Comparative experimental investigation on the efficacy of mono- and multiprobiotic strains in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease prevention

Background

To investigate the efficacy of different probiotic strains, their combinations and forms (alive or lyophilized) in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) prevention.

Methods

In this study, 70 rats have been used divided into 7 groups of 10 animals in each: I – intact rats, II-VII – rats with monosodium glutamate (MSG)-induced NAFLD. Rats with NAFLD were untreated (group II, MSG-obesity group) and treated with probiotics (groups III–VII). In order to develop NAFLD, newborn rats of groups II–VII were injected with a solution of monosodium glutamate (MSG) (4 mg/g) subcutaneously (s.c.) at 2nd,4th, 6th, 8th,10th postnatal day. The groups III–V received lyophilized monoprobiotics B. animalis VKL, B. animalis VKB, L.casei IMVB-7280, respectively. The group VI received 2.5 ml/kg of an aqueous solution of a mixture of the three probiotic strains (2:1:1 Lactobacillus casei IMVB-7280, Bifidobacterium animalis VKL, Bifidobacterium animalis VKB) at a dose of 50 mg/kg (5 × 10⁹ CFU/kg) (g) (intragastrically). The group VII was treated with multiprobiotic “Symbiter” containing biomass of 14 alive probiotic strains (Lactobacillus + Lactococcus (6 × 10¹⁰ CFU/g), Bifidobacterium (1 × 10¹⁰/g), Propionibacterium (3 × 10¹⁰/g), Acetobacter (1 × 10⁶/g)) at a dose of 140 mg/kg (1.4 × 10¹⁰ CFU/kg). The treatment with probiotics was started at the age of 1 month. There were 3 courses of treatment, each included 2-week administration and 2-week break. All parameters were measured in 4-month aged rats.

Results

Introduction of MSG during the neonatal period leads to the NAFLD development in the 4-months old rats. For steatosis degree there was no significant difference between MSG-obesity group and lyophilized monocomponent probiotics groups (III–V). The highest manifestation of steatosis was observed for B. animalis VKL group (2.0 ± 0.25) as compared to B. animalis VKB (1.70 ± 0.21) and L. casei IMVB-7280 (1.80 ± 0.20). The steatosis score changes between all monoprobiotics groups (III–V) were insignificant. Administration from birth of both alive (VII) and lyophilized (VI) probiotic mixture lead to a significant decrease by 69.5 % (p < 0.001) and 43.5 % (p < 0.025) of steatosis score respectively as compared to the MSG-obesity group (2.3 ± 0.21 %). For both alive and lyophilized probiotic mixtures, reduction of lobular inflammation was observed. These histological data were confirmed by the significant decrease of total lipids and triglycerides content in the liver approximately by 22–25 % in groups treated with probiotic mixtures (VI, VII) compared to the MSG-obesity group.

Conclusion

We established failure of NAFLD prevention with lyophilized monoprobiotic strains and the efficacy of probiotic mixture with the preference of alive probiotic strains.