Effects of Mesalamine Combined with Live Combined Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus and Enterococcus Capsules on Intestinal Mucosa Barrier Function and Intestinal Microbiota in Mildly Active Crohn's Disease Patients

Objective: This study is aimed at investigating the impact of mesalamine combined with Live combined Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus and Enterococcus capsules on intestinal mucosa barrier function and intestinal microbiota in mildly active Crohn's disease patients.Methods: Ninety-six Crohn's disease patients in mild activity period were randomized into the control group (treated with mesalamine) and the observation group (treated with mesalamine combined with Live combined Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus and Enterococcus capsules) (n = 48). After 4 wk of treatment, the patients were evaluated for their clinical efficacy. Intestinal microbiota counts, serum inflammatory factors, T lymphocyte subsets, and mucosal barrier function indicators in both groups were assessed.Results: After 4 wk of treatment, the total clinical effective rate of the observation group was higher than that of the control group. The number of Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus) and Bifidobacterium Longum (B. longum) in the intestinal tract, serum IL-10 levels, and peripheral blood CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ levels were higher, and the number of Bacteroides vulgatus (B. vulgatus), the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, CRP, CD8+, ET, D-lactate, DAO, and urine L/M ratio were lower in the observation group in comparison to those in the control group (all p < 0.05).Conclusion: Mesalamine combined with Live combined Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus and Enterococcus capsules are more effective in treating mildly active Crohn's disease.

Endolysin EN572-5 as an alternative to treat urinary tract infection caused by Streptococcus agalactiae

Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus, GBS) is an opportunistic pathogen causing urinary tract infection (UTI). Endolysin EN572-5 was identified in prophage KMB-572-E of the human isolate Streptococcus agalactiae KMB-572. The entire EN572-5 gene was cloned into an expression vector and the corresponding recombinant protein EN572-5 was expressed in Escherichia coli in a soluble form, isolated by affinity chromatography, and characterized. The isolated protein was highly active after 30 min incubation in a temperature range of - 20 °C to 37 °C and in a pH range of 5.5-8.0. The endolysin EN572-5 lytic activity was tested on different Streptococcus spp. and Lactobacillus spp. The enzyme lysed clinical GBS (n = 31/31) and different streptococci (n = 6/8), and also exhibited moderate lytic activity against UPEC (n = 4/4), but no lysis of beneficial vaginal lactobacilli (n = 4) was observed. The ability of EN572-5 to eliminate GBS during UTI was investigated using an in vitro model of UPSA. After the administration of 3 μM EN572-5, a nearly 3-log decrease of urine bacterial burden was detected within 3 h. To date, no studies have been published on the use of endolysins against S. agalactiae during UTI. KEY POINTS: • A lytic protein, EN572-5, from a prophage of a human GBS isolate has been identified. • This protein is easily produced, simple to prepare, and stable after lyophilization. • The bacteriolytic activity of EN572-5 was demonstrated for the first time in human urine.

Vaginal prevention of Candida albicans: synergistic effect of lactobacilli and mannan oligosaccharides (MOS)

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) affects approximately 30-50% of women at least once during their lifetime, causing uncomfortable symptoms and limitations in their daily quality of life. Antifungal therapy is not very effective, does not prevent recurrencies and usually causes side effects. Therefore, alternative therapies are urgently needed. The goal of this work was to investigate the potential benefits of using mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) extracts together with a Lactobacillus sp. pool, composed by the most significant species present in the vaginal environment, to prevent infections by Candida albicans. Microbial growth of isolated strains of the main vaginal lactobacilli and Candida strains was assessed in the presence of MOS, to screen their impact upon growth. A pool of the lactobacilli was then tested against C. albicans in competition and prophylaxis studies; bacterial and yeast cell numbers were quantified in specific time points, and the above-mentioned studies were assessed in simulated vaginal fluid (SVF). Finally, adhesion to vaginal epithelial cells (HeLa) was also evaluated, once again resorting to simultaneous exposure (competition) or prophylaxis assays, aiming to measure the effect of MOS presence in pathogen adherence. Results demonstrated that MOS extracts have potential to prevent vaginal candidiasis in synergy with vaginal lactobacilli, with improved results than those obtained when using lactobacilli alone. KEY POINTS: Potential benefits of MOS extracts with vaginal lactobacilli to prevent C. albicans infections. MOS impacts on growth of vaginal lactobacilli pool and C. albicans in SVF. MOS extracts in synergy with L. crispatus inhibit C. albicans adhesion in HeLa cells.

Moderate concentration of Lactobacillus metabolites does not adversely affect mouse sperm

Many couples in contemporary societies suffer from infertility of unexplained origins (idiopathic). A promising treatment strategy within this context involves the administration to women of preparations containing lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus) and/or their metabolites. Recent investigations underscore the role of lactobacilli in sustaining female fertility and enhancing the effectiveness of assisted reproductive techniques. There have also been reports describing the effect of lactobacilli on sperm functions, but our knowledge in this domain remains uncertain. In this study, the effect of supernatant from Lactobacillus rhamnosus culture on mouse sperm viability and motility was tested. The protective properties of lactobacilli metabolites against hydrogen peroxide-induced DNA damage were also verified. It was shown that the metabolites have no effect on viability, motility, and genome integrity of spermatozoa, but in excessive concentrations they become toxic. The obtained results imply that probiotic and/or postbiotic preparations taken by women should not adversely affect the sperm of their partners, provided the dose is correctly selected.

Postbiotic, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects of aqueous microbial lysozyme in broiler chickens

Lysozymes, efficient alternative supplements to antibiotics, have several benefits in poultry production. In the present study, 120, one-day-old, Ross 308 broiler chickens of mixed sex, were allocated into 2 equal groups, lysozyme treated group (LTG) and lysozyme free group (LFG), to evaluate the efficacy of lysozyme (Lysonir®) usage via both drinking water (thrice) and spray (once). LTG had better (p = 0.042) FCR, and higher European production efficiency factor compared to LFG (p = 0.042). The intestinal integrity score of LTG was decreased (p = 0.242) compared to that of LFG; 0.2 vs. 0.7. Higher (p ≤ 0.001) intestinal Lactobacillus counts were detected in chickens of LTG. Decreased (p ≤ 0.001) IL-1β and CXCL8 values were reported in LTG. The cellular immune modulation showed higher (p ≤ 0.001) opsonic activity (MΦ and phagocytic index) in LTG vs. LFG at 25 and 35 days. Also, higher (p ≤ 0.001) local, IgA, and humoral, HI titers, for both Newcastle, and avian influenza H5 viruses were found in LTG compared to LFG. In conclusion, microbial lysozyme could improve feed efficiency, intestinal integrity, Lactobacillus counts, anti-inflammatory, and immune responses in broiler chickens.

Impairment of Listeria monocytogenes biofilm developed on industrial surfaces by Latilactobacillus curvatus CRL1579 bacteriocin

The effect of lactocin AL705, bacteriocin produced by Latilactobacillus (Lat.) curvatus CRL1579 against Listeria biofilms on stainless steel (SS) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coupons at 10 °C was investigated. L. monocytogenes FBUNT showed the greatest adhesion on both surfaces associated to the hydrophobicity of cell surface. Partially purified bacteriocin (800 UA/mL) effectively inhibited L. monocytogenes preformed biofilm through displacement strategy, reducing the pathogen by 5.54 ± 0.26 and 4.74 ± 0.05 log cycles at 3 and 6 days, respectively. The bacteriocin-producer decreased the pathogen biofilm by ∼2.84 log cycles. Control and Bac- treated samples reached cell counts of 7.05 ± 0.18 and 6.79 ± 0.06 log CFU/cm2 after 6 days of incubation. Confocal scanning laser microscopy (CLSM) allowed visualizing the inhibitory effect of lactocin AL705 on L. monocytogenes preformed biofilms under static and hydrodynamic flow conditions. A greater effect of the bacteriocin was found at 3 days independently of the surface matrix and pathogen growth conditions at 10 °C. As a more realistic approach, biofilm displacement strategy under continuous flow conditions showed a significant loss of biomass, mean thickness and substratum coverage of pathogen biofilm. These findings highlight the anti-biofilm capacity of lactocin AL705 and their potential application in food industries.

The identification of active compounds and therapeutic properties of fermented and non-fermented red sorghum for the treatment of Alzheimer's dementia

Sorghum is a promising treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD), due to its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. Fermentation may also affect nutritional values. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to discover the phenolic and flavonoid chemicals found in both fermented and non-fermented red sorghum, as well as their potential therapeutic uses for AD. L. fermentum, and L. reuteri, and/or L. plantarum and L. casei were used to ferment samples of sorghum. The rats were grouped into five groups, healthy animals, and rats with Alzheimer's receiving 200 mg/kg of saline, non-fermented sorghum, and fermented sorghum fermented with L. fermentum and L. reuteri, as well as L. plantarum and L. casei. Various assessments were conducted, including evaluations of behavioral responses, antioxidant responses, inflammatory responses, acetylcholine levels and acetylcholine esterase, and bacterial populations in stool. P-hydroxybenzoic acid, eriodictyo naringenin, and apigenin were significantly higher in fermented samples, while glycerols were higher in non-fermented samples. The induction of Alzheimer's led to decrease step-through latency, time in target zone, FRAP, acetylcholine levels, Bifidobacterium population and lactobacillus population, while increased escape latency, platform location latency, MDA levels, IL-6, TNF-α, acetylcholine esterase, and coliform population (P = 0.001). The administration of both non-fermented sorghum and fermented sorghum demonstrated the potential to reverse the effects of AD, with a notably higher efficacy observed in the fermented samples compared to the non-fermented ones. In conclusion, fermentation exerted significant effects on the bioactive compounds the administration of fermented sorghum resulted in improved behavioral responses, characterized by a reduction in oxidation, inflammation and microbial population.

In vivo evaluations of Lactobacillus-fermented Eucheuma spinosum polysaccharides on alleviating food allergy activity

In order to explore the in vivo anti-food allergy activity of Lactobacillus sakei subsp. sakei-fermented Eucheuma spinosum polysaccharides F1-ESP-3, an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced food allergy mouse model was established by ascites immunization and gavage. The weight, temperature, incidence of diarrhea, levels of allergic mediators and inflammatory factors in the serum of mice were analyzed. We analyzed the differentiation of mouse spleen lymphocytes and the proportion of sensitized mast cells by flow cytometry. The intestinal barrier status of mice was analyzed by intestinal pathological tissue sections and microbiota sequencing. The results showed that F1-ESP-3 could alleviate the food allergy symptoms of mice, such as hypothermia and loose stool; levels of OVA-specific immunoglobulin E, mast cell protease and histamine in the serum of sensitized mice and the proportion of dendritic cells and mast cells in mouse spleen were significantly reduced; in addition, F1-ESP-3 may protect the intestinal barrier and further improve the intestinal microenvironment of food-allergic mice by regulating the abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. F1-ESP-3 can further improve the intestinal microenvironment of food-allergic mice by upregulating the levels of Lachnospiraceae, and may affect the signal pathways such as NOD-like receptor, MAPK, I kappa B and antigen processing and presentation.

Treatment of chickens with lactobacilli prior to challenge with Clostridium perfringens modifies innate responses and gut morphology

Necrotic enteritis caused by Clostridium perfringens (CP), is a common enteric disease of poultry that has been previously controlled by in-feed antibiotics. However, due to the rapid emergence of antimicrobial resistance, alternatives to antibiotics such as probiotics have received considerable attention because of their immunomodulatory and intestinal health benefits. The present study investigated the effects of probiotic lactobacilli on gut histomorphology and intestinal innate responses in chickens. Day-old male broiler chickens were treated with 1 × 107 or 1 × 108 colony-forming units (CFU) of a lactobacilli cocktail on days 1, 7, 14, and 20 post-hatch, while control groups were not treated with lactobacilli. On day 21, birds in all groups (except the negative control) were challenged with 3 × 108 CFU of CP for 3 days. Intestinal tissue samples were collected before and after the CP challenge to assess gene expression and for histomorphological analysis. Lactobacilli treatment at a dose of 1 × 108 CFU conferred partial protection against NE by lowering lesion scores, increasing villus height in the ileum and reducing crypt depth in the jejunum. In addition, 1 × 108 CFU of lactobacilli enhanced the expression of Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin (IL)-10, IL-12, and IL-13 in both the jejunum and ileum at different timepoints and subsequently decreased the expression of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and IL-1β post-CP challenge. In conclusion, the results indicate that treatment with lactobacilli mitigated NE in a dose-dependent manner via improvement of intestinal morphology and modulation of innate immune response in chickens.

Optimal probiotic combinations for treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Probiotic administration is a promising therapy for improving conditions in NAFLD patients. This network meta-analysis aimed to compare and estimate the relative effects of probiotic interventions and identify the optimal probiotic species for the treatment of NAFLD (Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) patients.

METHODS

The PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to 29 January 2024 to identify RCTs that were published in English. The GRADE framework was used to assess the quality of evidence contributing to each network estimate.

RESULTS

A total of 35 RCTs involving 2212 NAFLD patients were included in the analysis. For primary outcomes, Lactobacillus + Bifidobacterium + Streptococcus exhibited the highest probability of being the finest probiotic combination in terms of enhancing acceptability as well as reducing AST (SMD: -1.95 95% CI: -2.90, -0.99), ALT (SMD = -1.67, 95% CI: -2.48, -0.85), and GGT levels (SMD = -2.17, 95% CI: -3.27, -1.06). In terms of the secondary outcomes, Lactobacillus + Bifidobacterium + Streptococcus was also the best probiotic combination for reducing BMI (SMD = -0.45, 95% CI: -0.86, -0.04), LDL levels (SMD = -0.45, 95% CI: -0.87, -0.02), TC levels (SMD = -1.09, 95% CI: -1.89, -0.29), and TNF-α levels (SMD = -1.73, 95% CI: -2.72, -0.74).

CONCLUSION

This network meta-analysis revealed that Lactobacillus + Bifidobacterium + Streptococcus may be the most effective probiotic combination for the treatment of liver enzymes, lipid profiles, and inflammation factors. These findings can be used to guide the development of a probiotics-based treatment guideline for NAFLD since there are few direct comparisons between different therapies.

Effect of staphylococci fermentation and their synergistic Lactobacillus on the physicochemical characteristics and nonvolatile metabolites of Chinese bacon

The impacts of Staphylococcus cohnii, S. saprophyticus and their synergistic Lactobacillus plantarum on the quality and flavor of Chinese bacon were investigated by monitoring the physicochemical characteristics and characterizing metabolites with non-targeted metabolomics. Results showed that S. cohnii could increase the tenderness and decrease the oxidation of muscle, while S. saprophyticus stabilized the springiness and increased the proteolysis. The metabolites produced by the co-fermentation of S. cohnii and S. saprophyticus showed a higher hierarchy, then exhibited the highest hierarchy in synergy with L. plantarum. The promising flavor may be related to the arginine biosynthesis, nicotinic acid and nicotinamide metabolism, and pyrimidine metabolism pathways. Staphylococcus contributed to flavor by promoting the accumulation of di- and tripeptides and activating the amino acid metabolic pathway through arginine metabolism. These findings provide thoughts for understanding the fermentation mechanism of Staphylococcus and the targeted modulation of the flavor of Chinese bacon.

Lactobacillus delbrueckii CIDCA 133 fermented milk modulates inflammation and gut microbiota to alleviate acute colitis

Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. lactis CIDCA 133 is a health-promoting bacterium that can alleviate gut inflammation and improve the epithelial barrier in a mouse model of mucositis. Despite these beneficial effects, the protective potential of this strain in other inflammation models, such as inflammatory bowel disease, remains unexplored. Herein, we examined for the first time the efficacy of Lactobacillus delbrueckii CIDCA 133 incorporated into a fermented milk formulation in the recovery of inflammation, epithelial damage, and restoration of gut microbiota in mice with dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis. Oral administration of Lactobacillus delbrueckii CIDCA 133 fermented milk relieved colitis by decreasing levels of inflammatory factors (myeloperoxidase, N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, toll-like receptor 2, nuclear factor-κB, interleukins 10 and 6, and tumor necrosis factor), secretory immunoglobulin A levels, and intestinal paracellular permeability. This immunobiotic also modulated the expression of tight junction proteins (zonulin and occludin) and the activation of short-chain fatty acids-related receptors (G-protein coupled receptors 43 and 109A). Colonic protection was effectively associated with acetate production and restoration of gut microbiota composition. Treatment with Lactobacillus delbrueckii CIDCA 133 fermented milk increased the abundance of Firmicutes members (Lactobacillus genus) while decreasing the abundance of Proteobacteria (Helicobacter genus) and Bacteroidetes members (Bacteroides genus). These promising outcomes influenced the mice's mucosal healing, colon length, body weight, and disease activity index, demonstrating that this immunobiotic could be explored as an alternative approach for managing inflammatory bowel disease.

Understanding the Effect of Compound Probiotics on the Health of Rabbits and Its Mechanisms Through Metagenomics

In this study, we investigated the effects of probiotics on growth performance, immunity, intestinal flora, and antioxidant capacity of rabbits. Three hundred New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into four groups. Groups A, B, C, and D were the lactobacillus group, compound probiotic group, control group, and antibiotic group, respectively. The results showed compared with the control group, the average weight of groups A, B, and D increased by 14.88%, 12.33%, and 11.97%, respectively. Moreover, the index of immune organs and the IgG and IgM in serum of group B were significantly increased (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in group B and catalase (CAT) in group A were significantly increased (P < 0.05). At week 5, the contents of rabbit cecum were taken for metagenome sequencing, and the results showed probiotics increased the relative abundance of Akkermansia, and decreased the relative abundance of Bacteroides. According to the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database, we found probiotics could enrich metabolic pathways such as carbohydrates, amino acids, and lipids. According to the Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database (CARD), we found antibiotic resistance ontology (ARO) in cecum mainly included β-lactamases, macrolide 2'-phosphotransferase II, and plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance protein. Among them, there were 1964, 2105, and 1982 types of ARO in group B, group D, and groups A and C, respectively. These results showed probiotics played a beneficial role in maintaining or enhancing the health and growth of rabbits and could replace antibiotics under certain feeding conditions.

The effects of synbiotics on the liver steatosis, inflammation, and gut microbiome of metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease patients-randomized trial

INTRODUCTION

Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Liver Disease (MASLD) represents a spectrum of conditions from simple fat accumulation to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. The possible role of the intestinal microbiome on MASLD development has been in focus. Our study aimed to examine the effects of synbiotics on the liver steatosis, inflammation, and stool microbiome.

METHODS

A double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted involving 84 MASLD patients, defined by an elastometric attenuation coefficient (ATT) greater than 0.63 dB/cm/MHz with an alanine aminotransferase level above 40 U/L for men and 35 U/L for women. The patients were divided into an intervention group treated with a synbiotic with 64x109 CFU of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and 6.4g of inulin and a control group treated with a placebo.

RESULTS

Using synbiotics for 12 weeks significantly decreased liver steatosis (ΔATT -0.006±0.023 vs -0.016±0.021 dB/cm/MHz, p=0.046). The group of patients treated with synbiotics showed a significant decrease in the level of high-sensitive C-reactive protein (Δhs-CRP 0 vs -0.7 mg/L, p≤0.001). Synbiotics enriched the microbiome of patients in the intervention group with the genera Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium, and Streptococcus, by 81%, 55%, 51%, and 40%, respectively, with a reduction of Ruminococcus and Enterobacterium by 35% and 40%. Synbiotic treatment significantly shortened the gut transition time (ΔGTT -5h vs. -10h, p=0.031).

CONCLUSION

Synbiotics could be an effective and safe option that could have place in MASLD treatment.

Probiotics for managing patients after bowel preparation for colonoscopy: an interventional, double-arm, open, randomized, multi-center, and national study (COLONSTUDY)

BACKGROUND

Bowel preparation (BP) for colonoscopy induces significant changes in gut microbiota, causing dysbiosis that, in turn, elicits intestinal symptoms. Consequently, probiotics may counterbalance the disturbed microbiota after BP. So, probiotics may restore microbiota homeostasis.

METHODS

The current study evaluated the efficacy and safety of Abincol®, an oral nutraceutical containing a probiotic mixture with Lactobacillus plantarum LP01 (1 billion living cells), Lactobacillus lactis subspecies cremoris LLC02 (800 millions living cells), and Lactobacillus delbrueckii LDD01 (200 millions living cells), Patients were randomized in two groups (2:1). Group A took one stick/daily for four weeks after colonoscopy. Group B was considered as control. Patients were evaluated at baseline (T0) and after one (T1), two (T2), and four (T3) weeks. The severity of symptoms was measured by patients using a Visual Analog Scale.

RESULTS

Abincol® significantly diminished the presence and the severity of intestinal symptoms at T2 and even more at T3. All patients well tolerated the probiotic mixture.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggests that Abincol® may be considered an effective and safe therapeutic option in managing patients undergoing BP. The course should last one month.

Untangling Associations of Microbiomes of Pregnancy and Preterm Birth

This review illuminates the complex interplay between various maternal microbiomes and their influence on preterm birth (PTB), a driving and persistent contributor to neonatal morbidity and mortality. Here, we examine the dynamics of oral, gastrointestinal (gut), placental, and vaginal microbiomes, dissecting their roles in the pathogenesis of PTB. Importantly, focusing on the vaginal microbiome and PTB, the review highlights (1) a protective role of Lactobacillus species; (2) an increased risk with select anaerobes; and (3) the influence of social health determinants on the composition of vaginal microbial communities.

Faecal microbiota transplantation is better than probiotics for tissue regeneration of type 2 diabetes mellitus injuries in mice

CONTEXT

Western diet and unhealthy lifestyle have contributed to the continued growth of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). T2DM is associated with dysbacteriosis, and studies have found that altering the gut microbiota has a positive effect on treatment.

OBJECTIVE

In addition to hyperglycaemia, T2DM often causes damage to multiple organs. However, there are few studies on organ damage from faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

T2DM mice were divided into four groups and were given phosphate buffered saline (PBS) (T2DM group), FMT (FMT group), Lactobacillus (LAB group), and Bifidobacterium (BIO group) by gavage for six weeks, respectively. Mice on a normal diet (control group) were gavaged with PBS for six weeks.

RESULTS

After gavage treatment, FMT, LAB, and BIO groups were similar in lowering glucose, endotoxemia was slightly reduced, and the colonic mucus layer and liver lobules developed towards normal tissue. Surprisingly, we found that the FMT group had unique effects on islet cell regeneration, increased functional β cells, and insulin sensitivity.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Lactobacillus has the best glucose-lowering effect, but FMT has obvious advantages in β-cell regeneration, which provides new treatment ideas for tissue damage caused by T2DM.

The comparative anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory efficacy of postbiotics and probiotics through Nrf-2 and NF-kB pathways in DSS-induced colitis model

IBD is a disorder which could be caused by oxidative stress. This investigation aims to determine if probiotics and postbiotics can control oxidative stress and inflammation and compare the effectiveness of these two probiotic and postbiotic mixtures of substances. 88 strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium were tested for antioxidant activity. Male wild-type C57BL/6 mice were divided into four experimental groups, namely high fat diet (HFD) + PBS, HFD + DSS, HFD + DSS + 109 cfu/ml of probiotics, and HFD + DSS + 109 cfu/ml of postbiotics. The phenotypical indices and pathological scores were assessed. The expression of genes related to NF-kB and Nrf2 signaling pathways and enzymes associated with oxidant/anti-oxidant activities, and proinflammatory/inflammatory cytokines were assessed. In contrast to the groups exposed to DSS, mice treated with probiotics mixture and postbiotics mixture alongside DSS displayed alleviation of DSS-induced adverse effects on phenotypical characteristics, as well as molecular indices such as the Nrf2 and NF-kB related genes, with a greater emphasis on the postbiotics component. In accordance with the findings of the present investigation, it can be inferred that even in using a high-fat dietary regimen as an inducer of oxidative stress, the emergence of inflammation can be effectively addressed through the utilization of probiotics and, more specifically, postbiotics.

Milk-derived Lactobacillus with high production of short-chain fatty acids relieves antibiotic-induced diarrhea in mice

Antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) is a common side effect during antibiotic treatment, and this has warranted research into alternative protocols. In this study, we investigated the potential therapeutic effects of three cohorts, Lactobacillus plantarum KLDS 1.0386, Lactobacillus acidophilus KLDS 1.0901 and a mixed strain of both, on intestinal inflammation, the intestinal mucosal barrier, and microbial community in mice with ampicillin-induced diarrhea. The results showed that Lactobacillus inhibited the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, increased the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines in the murine intestine, and alleviated the intestinal barrier damage and inflammation induced by ampicillin. In addition, Lactobacillus ameliorates intestinal epithelial barrier damage by increasing the expression of tight junction proteins and aquaporins. After Lactobacillus treatment, the diversity of gut microbiota increased significantly, and the composition and function of gut microbiota gradually recovered. In the gut microbiota, Bacteroidetes and Escherichia Shigella related to the synthesis of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were significantly affected by ampicillin, while Lactobacillus regulates the cascade of the microbial-SCFA signaling pathway, which greatly promoted the generation of SCFAs. Collectively, Lactobacillus showed better results in treating AAD, especially in mixed strains.

Effectiveness of Prophylactic Oral and/or Vaginal Probiotic Supplementation in the Prevention of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Widespread antibiotic resistance has sparked interest in the identification of nonantibiotic strategies, particularly probiotics for the prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). We evaluated the effectiveness of prophylactic probiotic supplementation through oral and intravaginal routes in the prevention of recurrent UTIs.

METHODS

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study enrolled 174 premenopausal women with a history of recurrent UTIs and randomized them to 1 of the 4 treatment groups: placebo (G1, oral placebo + vaginal placebo), oral probiotic (G2, oral lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria + vaginal placebo), vaginal probiotic (G3, oral placebo + vaginal lactobacilli), and probiotic combination (oral lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria + vaginal lactobacilli), for 4 months. Participants were followed up for symptomatic UTIs for 1 year. The primary end points were the number of symptomatic UTIs at 4 months, the proportion of participants with at least 1 symptomatic UTI, and the time to the first symptomatic UTI.

RESULTS

The incidence of UTI at 4 months in G1, G2, G3, and G4 was 70.4%, 61.3%, 40.9%, and 31.8%, respectively. The mean number of symptomatic UTI recurrences at 4 months was significantly lower (P < .05) in G3 (1.06) and G4 (1.07) compared with G1 (2.1) and G2 (1.63). Further, the time to first symptomatic UTI (days) was significantly longer (P < .05) in G3 (123.8) and G4 (141.8) compared with G1 (69.3) and G2 (71.9). Probiotic supplementations were well tolerated with no serious adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic supplementation with either vaginal probiotics or in combination with oral probiotics demonstrated effectiveness in preventing recurrent symptomatic UTI episodes.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

Registered at Clinical Trials Registry India (CTRI): CTRI/2014/02/004425 (https://ctri.nic.in).

The Effect of Orally Administered Multi-Strain Probiotic Formulation (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) on the Phagocytic Activity and Oxidative Metabolism of Peripheral Blood Granulocytes and Monocytes in Lambs

Probiotic feed additives have attracted considerable research interest in recent years because the effectiveness of probiotics can differ across microbial strains and the supplemented macroorganisms. The present study was conducted on 16 lambs divided equally into two groups (C-control and E-experimental). The examined lambs were aged 11 days at the beginning of the experiment and 40 days at the end of the experiment. The diet of group E lambs was supplemented with a multi-strain probiotic formulation (Lactobacillus plantarum AMT14, Lactobacillus plantarum AMT4, Lactobacillus rhamnosus AMT15, and Bifidobacterium animalis AMT30), whereas group C lambs did not receive the probiotic additive. At the beginning of the experiment (day 0) and on experimental days 15 and 30, blood was sampled from the jugular vein to determine and compare: phagocytic activity (Phagotest) and oxidative metabolism (Phagoburst) of peripheral blood granulocytes and monocytes by flow cytometry. An analysis of the phagocytic activity of granulocytes and monocytes revealed significantly higher levels of phagocytic activity (expressed as the percentage of phagocytic cells and mean fluorescence intensity) in lambs that were administered the multi-strain probiotic formulation compared with lambs in the control group. The probiotic feed additive also exerted a positive effect on the oxidative metabolism of both granulocytes and monocytes (expressed as the percentage of oxidative metabolism and mean fluorescence intensity) after stimulation with Escherichia coli bacteria and with PMA (4-phorbol-12-β-myristate-13-acetate). These findings suggest that the tested probiotic formulation may have a positive effect on the immune status of lambs.

Yogurt Alleviates Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppression in Mice through D-Lactate

Numerous studies have investigated the immunomodulatory effects of yogurt, but the underlying mechanism remained elusive. This study aimed to elucidate the alleviating properties of yogurt on immunosuppression and proposed the underlying mechanism was related to the metabolite D-lactate. In the healthy mice, we validated the safety of daily yogurt consumption (600 μL) or D-lactate (300 mg/kg). In immunosuppressed mice induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX), we evaluated the immune regulation of yogurt and D-lactate. The result showed that yogurt restored body weight, boosted immune organ index, repaired splenic tissue, recovered the severity of delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions and increased serum cytokines (IgA, IgG, IL-6, IFN-γ). Additionally, yogurt enhanced intestinal immune function by restoring the intestinal barrier and upregulating the abundance of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. Further studies showed that D-lactate alleviated immunosuppression in mice mainly by promoting cellular immunity. D-lactate recovered body weight and organ development, elevated serum cytokines (IgA, IgG, IL-6, IFN-γ), enhanced splenic lymphocyte proliferation and increased the mRNA level of T-bet in splenic lymphocyte to bolster Th1 differentiation. Finally, CTX is a chemotherapeutic drug, thus, the application of yogurt and D-lactate in the tumor-bearing mouse model was initially explored. The results showed that both yogurt (600 μL) and D-lactate (300 mg/kg) reduced cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression without promoting tumor growth. Overall, this study evaluated the safety, immune efficacy and applicability of yogurt and D-lactate in regulating immunosuppression. It emphasized the potential of yogurt as a functional food for immune regulation, with D-lactate playing a crucial role in its immunomodulatory effects.

Invasive lactobacillus infection in pediatric patients in a tertiary center in Taiwan - 16 years' experience and literature review

BACKGROUND

Lactobacilli are common microorganisms in the human body. Some species were used as probiotics supplement for many purposes such as preventing necrotizing enterocolitis, or improving allergic diseases or diarrhea. Previously, Lactobacillus infection was thought of as contamination due to its low pathogenicity. However, there have been reports of invasive Lactobacillus infection in immunocompromised patients or patients with comorbidities. The purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics, antibiotic treatment and outcomes of pediatric patients with invasive Lactobacillus infection.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed pediatric patients diagnosed with invasive Lactobacillus infection between 2004 and 2020. Invasive Lactobacillus infection was diagnosed if sterile sites yielded Lactobacillus spp. Clinical manifestations, chronic diseases, potential predisposing factors, medical treatments, antimicrobial susceptibility tests and outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

Fifteen pediatric patients were diagnosed with invasive Lactobacillus infection, accounting for 2.4% of total invasive Lactobacillus infections during the 16-year period. Eleven infections were bacteremia, two were intra-abdominal infections, and two were biliary tract infections. Fever was the most common symptom. Potential predisposing factors were immunocompromised status, central venous device, prolonged antibiotics use and receiving supplemented probiotics for at least one week. All patients survived with favorable outcomes. Most pathogens were identified as Lactobacillus spp, and two were Lactobacillus rhamnosus, which were related to supplemented probiotics. The antimicrobial susceptibility tests showed that Lactobacilli were all sensitive to ampicillin but resistant to glycopeptides.

CONCLUSION

Invasive Lactobacillus infections in pediatric patients were rare. Despite its low pathogenicity, Lactobacillus could cause invasive infection in those immunocompromised patients.

Construction of Fu brick tea polysaccharide-cold plasma modified alginate microgels for probiotic delivery: Enhancing viability and colonization

Emerging food processing technologies provide broader avenues for enhancing probiotic delivery systems. In this study, the new Fu brick tea polysaccharide (FBTP) was extracted and combined with cold plasma-modified alginate nano-montmorillonite (AMT) to prepare microgels by ionic gelation to improve the viability of encapsulated Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens JKSP109. Results showed that cold plasma treatment for 3 min changed the surface charge of AMT biopolymer solution, and FBTP addition reduced the particle size to the lowest of 223 ± 5.50 nm. Morphological analysis showed that the AMT treated with cold plasma for 3 min and FBTP (C3AMT + FBTP) formed a dense microgel through electrostatic interaction, and the probiotics were randomly distributed in their internal polysaccharide network, as well as the interlayer and surrounding of nanoparticles. The probiotics immobilized in C3AMT + FBTP microgel exhibited the highest viability (8.48 ± 0.03 log CFU/g) and colonic colonization after exposure to simulated gastrointestinal conditions. In addition, the good antioxidant activity of FBTP reduced the loss of probiotic viability during storage, with only 2.58 log CFU/g decreased after 4 weeks. Therefore, such probiotic products enriched with natural bioactive ingredients can be developed as a potential functional food additive.

Different microbial ecological agents change the composition of intestinal microbiota and the levels of SCFAs in mice to alleviate loperamide-induced constipation

Probiotics exert beneficial effects by regulating the intestinal microbiota, metabolism, immune function and other ways of their host. Patients with constipation, a common gastrointestinal disorder, experience disturbances in their intestinal microbiota. In the present study, we investigated the effectiveness of two microbial ecological agents (postbiotic extract PE0401 and a combination of postbiotic extract PE0401 and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei CCFM 2711) in regulating the makeup of the intestinal microbiota and alleviating loperamide hydrochloride-induced constipation in mice. We also preliminarily explored the mechanism underlying their effects. Both microbial ecological agents increased the abundance of the beneficial bacteria Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium after administration and were able to relieve constipation. However, the degree of improvement in constipation symptoms varied depending on the makeup of the supplement. The postbiotic extract PE0401 increased peristalsis time and improved faecal properties throughout the intestinal tract of the host. PE0401 relieved constipation, possibly by modulating the levels of the constipation-related gastrointestinal regulatory transmitters mouse motilin, mouse vasoactive intestinal peptide, and 5-hydoxytryptamine in the intestinal tract of the host and by increasing the levels of the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) acetic acid, propionic acid, and isovaleric acid. It also increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and reduced that of Faecalibaculum, Mucispirillum, Staphylococcus, and Lachnoclostridium, which are among the beneficial microbiota in the host intestine. Furthermore, PE0401 decreased the levels of constipation-induced host inflammatory factors. Therefore, the two microbial ecological agents can regulate the intestinal microbiota of constipation mice, and PE0401 has a stronger ability to relieve constipation.