Gut commensal Parabacteroides goldsteinii plays a predominant role in the anti-obesity effects of polysaccharides isolated from Hirsutella sinensis

In-depth insight into correlations between gut microbiota and dietary fiber elucidates a dietary causal relationship with host health

Dietary fiber exerts a wide range of biological benefits on host health, which not only provides a powerful source of nutrition for gut microbiota but also supplies key microbial metabolites that directly affect host health. This review mainly focuses on the decomposition and metabolism of dietary fiber and the essential genera Bacteroides and Bifidobacterium in dietary fiber fermentation. Dietary fiber plays an essential role in host health by impacting outcomes related to obesity, enteritis, immune health, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, the gut microbiota-independent pathway of dietary fiber affecting host health is also discussed. Personalized dietary fiber intake combined with microbiome, genetics, epigenetics, lifestyle and other factors has been highlighted for development in the future. A higher level of evidence is needed to demonstrate which microbial phenotype benefits from which kind of dietary fiber. In-depth insights into the correlation between gut microbiota and dietary fiber provide strong theoretical support for the precise application of dietary fiber, which elucidates a dietary causal relationship with host health.

Effects of Vitamin E on the Gut Microbiome in Ageing and Its Relationship with Age-Related Diseases: A Review of the Current Literature

Ageing is inevitable in all living organisms and is associated with physical deterioration, disease and eventually death. Dysbiosis, which is the alteration of the gut microbiome, occurs in individuals during ageing, and plenty of studies support that gut dysbiosis is responsible for the progression of different types of age-related diseases. The economic burden of age-linked health issues increases as ageing populations increase. Hence, an improvement in disease prevention or therapeutic approaches is urgently required. In recent years, vitamin E has garnered significant attention as a promising therapeutic approach for delaying the ageing process and potentially impeding the development of age-related disease. Nevertheless, more research is still required to understand how vitamin E affects the gut microbiome and how it relates to age-related diseases. Therefore, we gathered and summarized recent papers in this review that addressed the impact of the gut microbiome on age-related disease, the effect of vitamin E on age-related disease along with the role of vitamin E on the gut microbiome and the relationship with age-related diseases which are caused by ageing. Based on the studies reported, different bacteria brought on various age-related diseases with either increased or decreased relative abundances. Some studies have also reported the positive effects of vitamin E on the gut microbiome as beneficial bacteria and metabolites increase with vitamin E supplementation. This demonstrates how vitamin E is vital as it affects the gut microbiome positively to delay ageing and the progression of age-related diseases. The findings discussed in this review will provide a simplified yet deeper understanding for researchers studying ageing, the gut microbiome and age-related diseases, allowing them to develop new preclinical and clinical studies.

From-Toilet-to-Freezer: A Review on Requirements for an Automatic Protocol to Collect and Store Human Fecal Samples for Research Purposes

The composition, viability and metabolic functionality of intestinal microbiota play an important role in human health and disease. Studies on intestinal microbiota are often based on fecal samples, because these can be sampled in a non-invasive way, although procedures for sampling, processing and storage vary. This review presents factors to consider when developing an automated protocol for sampling, processing and storing fecal samples: donor inclusion criteria, urine-feces separation in smart toilets, homogenization, aliquoting, usage or type of buffer to dissolve and store fecal material, temperature and time for processing and storage and quality control. The lack of standardization and low-throughput of state-of-the-art fecal collection procedures promote a more automated protocol. Based on this review, an automated protocol is proposed. Fecal samples should be collected and immediately processed under anaerobic conditions at either room temperature (RT) for a maximum of 4 h or at 4 °C for no more than 24 h. Upon homogenization, preferably in the absence of added solvent to allow addition of a buffer of choice at a later stage, aliquots obtained should be stored at either -20 °C for up to a few months or -80 °C for a longer period-up to 2 years. Protocols for quality control should characterize microbial composition and viability as well as metabolic functionality.

Effects of Human Milk Fat Substitutes on Lipid Metabolism in First-Weaned Rats

Although numerous studies indicate that formula-fed infants are more prone to obesity than breastfed ones, the underlying reasons have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to determine the impact of human milk fat substitutes (HMFS) on the lipid metabolism of first-weaned Sprague Dawley rats. The findings revealed that administering HMFS did not affect the body weight of the rats (control: 298.38 ± 26.73 g, OPO (1,3-dioleic acid-2-palmitoyl triglyceride): 287.82 ± 19.85 g and HMFS: 302.31 ± 19.21 g), but it significantly decreased their body fat content (control: 28.70 ± 1.17 cm3, OPO: 22.51 ± 1.10 cm3 and HMFS: 14.90 ± 0.95 cm3) (p < 0.05). Lipidome analysis revealed that glycerophospholipid was the primary differentiating lipid present in the liver of HMFS-fed rats. The abundance of Bacteroides significantly increased in the intestine of HMFS-fed rats (p < 0.05), and their short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) content significantly increased (p < 0.05). The multi-omics correlation analysis established the "Bacteroidetes-SCFAs-Glycerophospholipid pathway" as a potential mechanism by which administering HMFS affects body fat buildup in first-weaned rats. Additionally, it was found that HMFS administration significantly promoted lipid metabolism in the rat liver at both the gene and protein levels (p < 0.05). These findings serve to underscore the nutritional benefits of HMFS for infants.

A pectic polysaccharide isolated from Achyranthes bidentata is metabolized by human gut Bacteroides spp

Achyranthes bidentata (A. bidentata) is a famous traditional Chinese medicine (TGM) for treatment osteoporosis. Polysaccharides, a major factor for shaping the gut microbiota, are the primary ingredients of A. bidentata. However, bioactivity of A. bidentata polysaccharide on human gut microbiota (HGM) remains unknown. Here, a homogeneous pectic polysaccharide A23-1 with average molecular weight of 93.085 kDa was extracted and purified from A. bidentata. And A23-1 was compsed of rhamnose, glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose and arabinose in a molar ratio of 7.26: 0.76: 5.12: 2.54: 23.51: 60.81. GC-MS, partial acid hydrolysis and NMR results indicated the backbone of A23-1 was composed of 1, 2, 4-Rhap and 1, 4-GlapA, while the branches were composed of galactose, arabinose, glucose and glucuronic acid. Further, A23-1 was found to be degraded into monosaccharides and fragments. Taking Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron (BT) as a model, we suggested three polysaccharide utilization loci (PULs) might be involved in the A23-1 degradation. Degraded products generated by BO might not support the growth of probiotics. Besides, acetate and propionate as the main end products were generated by Bacteroides spp. and probiotics utilizing A23-1. These findings suggested A23-1 was possible one of food sources of human gut Bacteroides spp.

High-fat diet-induced gut microbiota alteration promotes lipogenesis by butyric acid/miR-204/ACSS2 axis in chickens

The gut microbiota is known to have significant involvement in the regulation of lipogenesis and adipogenesis, yet the mechanisms responsible for this relationship remain poorly understood. The current study aims to provide insight into the potential mechanisms by which the gut microbiota modulates lipogenesis in chickens. Using chickens fed with a normal-fat diet (NFD, n = 5) and high-fat diet (HFD, n = 5), we analyzed the correlation between gut microbiota, cecal metabolomics, and lipogenesis by 16s rRNA sequencing, miRNA and mRNA sequencing as well as targeted metabolomics analysis. The potential metabolite/miRNA/mRNA axis regulated by gut microbiota was identified using chickens treated with antibiotics (ABX, n = 5). The possible mechanism of gut microbiota regulating chicken lipogenesis was confirmed by fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from chickens fed with NFD to chickens fed with HFD (n = 5). The results showed that HFD significantly altered gut microbiota composition and enhanced chicken lipogenesis, with a significant correlation between 3. Furthermore, HFD significantly altered the hepatic miRNA expression profiles and reduced the abundance of hepatic butyric acid. Procrustes analysis indicated that the HFD-induced dysbiosis of the gut microbiota might affect the expression profiles of hepatic miRNA. Specifically, HFD-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis may reduce the abundance of butyric acid and downregulate the expression of miR-204 in the liver. Multiomics analysis identified ACSS2 as a target gene of miR-204. Gut microbiota depletion by an antibiotic cocktail (ABX) showed a gut microbiota-dependent manner in the abundance of butyric acid and the expression of miR-204/ACSS2, which have been observed to be significantly correlated. Fecal microbiota transplantation from NFD chickens into HFD chickens effectively attenuated the HFD-induced excessive lipogenesis, elevated the abundance of butyric acid and the relative expression of miR-204, and reduced the expression of ACSS2 in the liver. Mechanistically, our results showed that the gut microbiota plays an antiobesity role by regulating the butyric acid/miR-204/ACSS2 axis in chickens. This work contributed to a better understanding of the functions of gut microbiota in regulating chicken lipogenesis.

Recent progress in plant-derived polysaccharides with prebiotic potential for intestinal health by targeting gut microbiota: a review

Natural products of plant origin are of high interest and widely used, especially in the food industry, due to their low toxicity and wide range of bioactive properties. Compared to other plant components, the safety of polysaccharides has been generally recognized. As dietary fibers, plant-derived polysaccharides are mostly degraded in the intestine by polysaccharide-degrading enzymes secreted by gut microbiota, and have potential prebiotic activity in both non-disease and disease states, which should not be overlooked, especially in terms of their involvement in the treatment of intestinal diseases and the promotion of intestinal health. This review elucidates the regulatory effects of plant-derived polysaccharides on gut microbiota and summarizes the mechanisms involved in targeting gut microbiota for the treatment of intestinal diseases. Further, the structure-activity relationships between different structural types of plant-derived polysaccharides and the occurrence of their prebiotic activity are further explored. Finally, the practical applications of plant-derived polysaccharides in food production and food packaging are summarized and discussed, providing important references for expanding the application of plant-derived polysaccharides in the food industry or developing functional dietary supplements.

Structural characteristics and in vitro fermentation patterns of polysaccharides from Boletus mushrooms

The aim of this study was to investigate the structural characteristics and in vitro fermentation patterns of polysaccharides from Boletus mushrooms. Polysaccharides were solubilized from fruit bodies of selected mushrooms Boletus auripes, B. bicolor, and B. griseus using subcritical water extraction. Boletus polysaccharides were characterized for their general physicochemical pattern, constituent monosaccharides and molecular weight. A simulated in vitro fermentation model was used to study the utilization of Boletus polysaccharides by the gut microbiota and their consequent modulation of microbial communities. Results showed that the main constituent monosaccharides of Boletus polysaccharides were glucose, galactose and mannose, followed by fucose, xylose and rhamnose, with glucose being the most abundant. The polysaccharides from B. bicolor and B. griseus exhibited a relatively high proportion of galactose and mannose, respectively. Boletus polysaccharides exhibited a wide range of molecular weights (5 kDa to 2000 kDa), which covered multiple polysaccharide populations, but the proportions of these populations varied among the samples. Boletus polysaccharides were gradually utilized by the human fecal microbiota, promoting the production of SCFAs. Boletus polysaccharides contributed to a healthier gut microbiota composition by increasing the relative abundance of beneficial bacterial genera such as Bacteroides and Faecalibacterium and reducing the relative abundance of harmful bacterial genera such as Sutterella and Escherichia-Shigella. B. bicolor polysaccharides showed better fermentability and prebiotic effects than the other Boletus polysaccharide groups. Therefore, the consumption of select Boletus mushrooms, particularly B. bicolor, could be a potential approach to obtain polysaccharides for microbiota modulation and to support gut health.

Polysaccharides: The Potential Prebiotics for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD)

Metabolic (dysfunction) associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is recognized as the most prevalent chronic liver disease globally. However, its pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. Recent advancements in the gut-liver axis offer novel insights into the development of MAFLD. Polysaccharides, primarily derived from fungal and algal sources, abundantly exist in the human diet and exert beneficial effects on glycometabolism, lipid metabolism, inflammation, immune modulation, oxidative stress, and the release of MAFLD. Numerous studies have demonstrated that these bioactivities of polysaccharides are associated with their prebiotic properties, including the ability to modulate the gut microbiome profile, maintain gut barrier integrity, regulate metabolites produced by gut microbiota such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and bile acids (BAs), and contribute to intestinal homeostasis. This narrative review aims to present a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of the protective effects of polysaccharides on MAFLD through their interactions with the gut microbiota and its metabolites. Specifically, we highlight the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the prebiotic effects of polysaccharides, which may give new avenues for the prevention and treatment of MAFLD.

N-acetylglucosamine-6-O sulfation on intestinal mucins prevents obesity and intestinal inflammation by regulating gut microbiota

Intestinal mucins play an essential role in the defense against bacterial invasion and the maintenance of gut microbiota, which is instrumental in the regulation of host immune systems; hence, its dysregulation is a hallmark of metabolic disease and intestinal inflammation. However, the mechanism by which intestinal mucins control the gut microbiota as well as disease phenotypes remains nebulous. Herein, we report that N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc)-6-O sulfation of O-glycans on intestinal mucins performs a protective role against obesity and intestinal inflammation. Chst4-/- mice, lacking GlcNAc-6-O sulfation of the mucin O-glycans, showed significant weight gain and increased susceptibility to dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis as well as colitis-associated cancer accompanied by significantly reduced immunoglobulin A (IgA) production caused by an impaired T follicular helper cell-mediated IgA response. Interestingly, the protective effects of GlcNAc-6-O sulfation against obesity and intestinal inflammation depend on the gut microbiota, evidenced by the modulation of the gut microbiota by cohousing or microbiota transplantation reversing disease phenotypes and IgA production. Collectively, our findings provide insight into the significance of host glycosylation, more specifically GlcNAc-6-O sulfation on intestinal mucins, in protecting against obesity and intestinal inflammation via regulation of the gut microbiota.

Sex- and Age-Dependent Associations between Parabacteroides and Obesity: Evidence from Two Population Cohort

Parabacteroides levels are reported to be low in obese individuals, and this genus has shown an anti-obesity capacity in animal studies. Nevertheless, the relationship between Parabacteroides and obesity in different subpopulations, e.g., with respect to age and sex, and its association with subsequent weight change have rarely been explored. The cross-sectional associations of Parabacteroides genus- and species-level OTU abundance with obesity were explored in the Guangdong Gut Microbiome Project (GGMP), which included 5843 adults, and replicated in the Guangzhou Nutrition and Health Study (GNSH), which included 1637 individuals. Furthermore, we assessed the prospective associations of Parabacteroides and its main OTUs' abundance with the subsequent changes in body mass index (BMI) in the GNSH. We found that Parabacteroides was inversely associated with obesity among females and participants aged 40-69 years in the GGMP and the replicated cohort in the GNSH. After a 3-year follow-up, there was no significant correlation between Parabacteroides and the subsequent changes in BMI. However, Seq4172 (P. johnsonii) showed a negative correlation with subsequent BMI changes in the female and middle-aged (40-69 years) subpopulations. Overall, our results indicate that Parabacteroides have an inverse relationship with obesity and that Seq4172 (P. johnsonii) have a negative association with subsequent changes in BMI among females and middle-aged populations in perspective analyses.

Dendrobium officinale Polysaccharide Alleviates Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus by Restoring Gut Microbiota and Repairing Intestinal Barrier via the LPS/TLR4/TRIF/NF-kB Axis

Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (DOP), the main active component, has a variety of bioactivities. In this study, a type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and antibiotic-induced pseudo-germ-free mouse models were used to investigate the hypoglycemic mechanisms of DOP. The findings showed that DOP ameliorated dysfunctional glucolipid metabolism, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) leakage, and metabolic inflammation levels in T2DM mice. Furthermore, DOP significantly upregulated the mRNA expression of tight junction proteins Claudin-1, Occludin, and ZO-1 and reduced intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress damage through the LPS/TLR4/TRIF/NF-κB axis to repair the intestinal barrier. Interestingly, pseudo-germ-free mouse experiments confirmed that the above beneficial effects of DOP were dependent on gut microbiota. 16S rRNA analysis showed that DOP strongly inhibited the harmful bacterium Helicobacter by 94.57% and facilitated the proliferation of probiotics Allobaculum, Bifidobacterium, and Lactobacillus by 34.96, 139.41, and 88.95%, respectively. Therefore, DOP is capable of rebuilding certain specific intestinal microbiota to restore intestinal barrier injury, which supports the utilization of DOP as a new type of prebiotic in functional foods for T2DM.

Cordyceps cicadae polysaccharides alleviate hyperglycemia by regulating gut microbiota and its mmetabolites in high-fat diet/streptozocin-induced diabetic mice

Introduction

The polysaccharides found in Cordyceps cicadae (C. cicadae) have received increasing academic attention owing to their wide variety of therapeutic activities.

Methods

This study evaluated the hypoglycemic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of polysaccharides from C. cicadae (CH-P). In addition, 16s rDNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics analysis by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) were used to estimate the changes and regulatory relationships between gut microbiota and its metabolites. The fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was used to verify the therapeutic effects of microbial remodeling.

Results

The results showed that CH-P treatment displayed hypoglycemic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects and alleviated tissue damage induced by diabetes. The CH-P treatment significantly reduced the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and increased the abundance of Bacteroides, Odoribacter, Alloprevotella, Parabacteroides, Mucispirillum, and significantly decreased the abundance of Helicobacter and Lactobacillus compared to the diabetic group. The alterations in the metabolic pathways were mostly related to amino acid biosynthesis and metabolic pathways (particularly those involving tryptophan) according to the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. Correlation analysis showed that Bacteroides, Odoribacter, Alloprevotella, Parabacteroides, and Mucispirillum were positively correlated with indole and its derivatives, such as 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid. Indole intervention significantly improved hyperglycemic symptoms and insulin sensitivity, and increased the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in diabetic mice. FMT reduced blood glucose levels, improved glucose tolerance, and increased insulin sensitivity in diabetic mice. However, FMT did not significantly improve GLP-1 levels.

Discussion

This indicates that C. cicadae polysaccharides alleviate hyperglycemia by regulating the production of metabolites other than indole and its derivatives by gut microbiota. This study provides an important reference for the development of novel natural products.

Effect of Oral Administration of Polyethylene Glycol 400 on Gut Microbiota Composition and Diet-Induced Obesity in Mice

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a commonly used dispersant for oral administration of hydrophobic agents. PEG is partly absorbed in the small intestine, and the unabsorbed fraction reaches the large intestine; thus, oral administration of PEG may impact the gut microbial community. However, to the best of our knowledge, no study evaluated the effects of PEG on gut commensal bacteria. Herein, we aimed to determine whether oral administration of PEG modifies the gut microbiota. Administration of PEG400 and PEG4000 altered gut microbial diversity in a concentration-dependent manner. Taxonomic analysis revealed that Akkermansia muciniphila and particularly Parabacteroides goldsteinii were overrepresented in mice administered with 40% PEG. PEG400 administration ameliorated the high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and adipose tissue inflammation. Fecal microbiome transplantation from PEG400-administered donors counteracted the HFD-induced body and epididymal adipose tissue weight gain, indicating that PEG400-associated bacteria are responsible for the anti-obesity effect. Conversely, carboxymethyl cellulose, also used as a dispersant, did not affect the abundance of these two bacterial species or HFD-induced obesity. In conclusion, we demonstrated that oral administration of a high concentration of PEG400 (40%) alters the gut microbiota composition and ameliorates HFD-induced obesity.

Effects of green space on physical activity and body weight status among Chinese adults: a systematic review

Background

Green space may provide many benefits to residents' health behaviors and body weight status, but the evidence is still relatively scattered among Chinese adults. The purpose of this study was to review the scientific evidence on the effects of green space on physical activity (PA) and body weight status among Chinese adults.

Methods

A keyword and reference search was conducted in Pubmed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO. Studies examining the associations between green space and PA, body mass index (BMI) among Chinese adults were included. The quality of the included literature was evaluated using the National Institutes of Health's Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Study Quality Assessment Tool.

Results

A total of 31 studies were included that met the inclusion criteria, including 25 studies with a cross-sectional design, 3 studies with a longitudinal design, and 3 studies with an experimental design. Street-level green view index and green space accessibility were found to be positively associated with PA, but negatively associated with BMI. In most studies, there was a correlation between green space ratio in local areas and BMI. In addition, green space interventions were effective in increasing PA and decreasing BMI among Chinese adults. In contrast, further evidence is needed to support the association between the design characteristics of green space and PA and BMI.

Conclusion

Preliminary evidence suggests that green space has a positive effect on PA and BMI among Chinese adults. However, there are contradictory findings, and future studies adopting longitudinal and quasi-experimental studies are needed to further explore the causal relationship between green space and PA and BMI to provide a relevant theoretical basis for policymakers.

The balanced unsaturated fatty acid supplement constituted by woody edible oils improved lipid metabolism and gut microbiota in high-fat diet mice

The dietary intervention has demonstrated effectiveness in improving hyperlipidemia and obesity. Woody edible oils are rich in unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) that could positively affect lipid metabolism. In this study, the blended oil (BLO), a balanced UFA supplement, constituted by Zanthoxylum bungeanum (Chinese Red Pepper) seed oil, walnut (Juglans regia) oil, camellia (Camema oleifera) seed oil and perilla (Perilla frutescens) seed oil was established referring to the Chinese dietary reference intakes, in which the ratios of monounsaturated/polyunsaturated fatty acids and ω-6/ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids were 1:1 and 4:1, respectively. The BLO was administrated to KM mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) by gavage every day at a dose of 3.0 mL/kg·bw for 10 weeks to assess its effects on serum lipid levels, liver antioxidant activities and gut microbial composition. The results showed that the BLO improved hepatic steatosis, liver oxidative stress, and serum lipid levels. Additionally, there was an increased abundance of Lactobacillus, Allobaculum, and Blautia, along with a decreased abundance of Staphylococcus in cecal contents. These changes were found to be positively correlated with the metabolic improvements, as indicated by Spearman's correlation analysis. These findings implied the practicality of the balanced unsaturated fatty acid consumption in preventing hyperlipidemia and obesity.

Oral Supplementation with Algal Sulphated Polysaccharide in Subjects with Inflammatory Skin Conditions: A Randomised Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial and Baseline Dietary Differences

We examined the effect of a dietary seaweed extract-sulfated xylorhamnoglucuronan (SXRG84)-on individuals with inflammatory skin conditions. A subgroup analysis of a larger trial was undertaken, where 44 participants with skin conditions were enrolled in a double-blind placebo-controlled crossover design. Subjects ingested either SXRG84 extract (2 g/day) for six weeks and placebo for six weeks, or vice versa. At baseline, six- and twelve-weeks inflammatory markers and the gut microbiota were assessed, as well as skin assessments using the dermatology quality of life index (DQLI), psoriasis area severity index (PASI) and visual analogue scales (VAS). There were significant differences at weeks six and twelve for pro-inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ (p = 0.041), IL-1β (p = 0.030), TNF-α (p = 0.008) and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 (p = 0.026), determined by ANCOVA. These cytokines were all significantly higher at six weeks post placebo compared to twelve weeks post placebo followed by SXRG84 treatment. A total of 23% of participants reported skin improvements, as measured by VAS (mean difference 3.1, p = 0.0005) and the DQLI score (mean difference -2.0, p = 0.049), compared to the 'non-responders'. Thus, the ingestion of SXRG84 for 6 weeks reduced inflammatory cytokines, and a subset of participants saw improvements.

Effects and action mechanisms of lotus leaf (Nelumbo nucifera) ethanol extract on gut microbes and obesity in high-fat diet-fed rats

Objective

The present study aimed to clarify the effect of the lotus leaf ethanol extract (LLEE) on the mechanism of antiobesity and the intestinal microbiota of obese rats.

Methods

A total of 40 specific pathogen-free (SPF) male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were split into the blank control group, the model control group, the Orlistat capsule control group, and the LLEE group. All the groups were intervened and fed specific diets for 5 months. During the experiment, we evaluated the rats' body weight, length, serum biochemical indicators, and inflammatory factor levels. After dissection, the liver; epididymal and perirenal white adipose tissue (WAT); and the contents of the cecum were collected for pathological evaluation and intestinal flora analysis.

Results

Lotus leaf alcohol extract can significantly reduce the serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. It also decreases the accumulation of fatty deposits in the liver of rats and the levels of serum inflammatory factors IL-6 and TNF-α and increases the level of IL-10. Lotus leaf alcohol extracts significantly increased the abundance of Muribaculaceae in the intestinal flora of rats, reduced the abundance of pro-inflammatory bacteria Firmicutes, and relieved fatty liver and other inflammation and diseases caused by a high-fat diet. Besides, the ethanol extract of the lotus leaf significantly regulated the abundance of Ruminococcus, suggesting that the ethanol extract of the lotus leaf may prevent hyperlipidemia.

Conclusion

We elucidated the effects and action mechanisms of LLEE on obesity in high-fat diet-fed rats to provide suggestions for regulating intestinal flora through dietary intervention and thus improving blood lipid metabolism.

Metabolism of resistant starch RS3 administered in combination with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain 84-3 by human gut microbiota in simulated fermentation experiments in vitro and in a rat model

This study aimed to investigate the metabolic and population responses of gut microbiota to resistant starch (RS3) in the presence of exogenous Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain 84-3 (Lp84-3) in vitro and in vivo. Lp84-3 promoted acetate, propionate, and butyrate production from RS3 by gut microbiota and increased Lactobacillus and Blautia contents in vitro. Furthermore, in the presence of Lp84-3, starch granules presented a "dot-by-hole" fermentation pattern. Administration of Lp84-3 with RS3 increased the level of SCFA-producing Faecalibaculum, Parabacteroides, Alistipes, and Anaeroplasma in the faeces of rates, with Lactobacillus and Akkermansia representing the key genera that significantly promoted SCFAs, especially propionate and butyrate. Lp84-3 with RS3 promoted genes related to tryptophan synthase (EC 4.2.1.20) and beta-glucosidase (EC 3.2.1.21) in faecal bacteria. Our findings highlight the ability of Lp84-3 to enhance RS3 degradation, possibly by promoting SCFA-producing bacteria, and indicate that Lp84-3 could be a potential probiotic with a beneficial effect on gut microbiota.

Impaired flux of bile acids from the liver to the gut reveals microbiome-immune interactions associated with liver damage

Currently, there is evidence that alteration in the gut ecosystem contributes to the development of liver diseases, however, the complex mechanisms involved are still unclear. We induced cholestasis in mice by bile duct ligation (BDL), mirroring the phenotype of a bile duct obstruction, to understand how gut microbiota alterations caused by an impaired flow of bile acid to the gut contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of liver disease. We performed longitudinal stool, heart, and liver sampling using mice receiving BDL and controls receiving sham operation (ShamOP). Shotgun metagenomics profiling using fecal samples taken before and on day 1, day 3, and day 7 after surgery was performed, and the cytokines and clinical chemistry profiles from heart blood, as well as the liver bile acids profile, were measured. The BDL surgery reshaped the microbiome of mice, resulting in highly distinct characteristics compared to the ShamOP. Our analysis of the microbiome pathways and ECs revealed that BDL reduces the production of hepatoprotective compounds in the gut, such as biotin, spermidine, arginine, and ornithine, which were negatively associated with inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-23, MCP-1). The reduction of the functional potential of the gut microbiota in producing those hepatoprotective compounds is associated with the decrease of beneficial bacteria species from Anaerotruncus, Blautia, Eubacterium, and Lachnoclostridium genera, as well as the increase of disease-associated bacteria e.g., Escherichia coli and Entercoccus faecalis. Our findings advances our knowledge of the gut microbiome-bile acids-liver triangle, which may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for liver diseases.

Bacteriophage targeting microbiota alleviates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease induced by high alcohol-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae

Our previous studies have shown that high alcohol-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (HiAlc Kpn) in the intestinal microbiome could be one of the causes of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Considering antimicrobial resistance of K. pneumoniae and dysbacteriosis caused by antibiotics, phage therapy might have potential in treatment of HiAlc Kpn-induced NAFLD, because of the specificity targeting the bacteria. Here, we clarified the effectiveness of phage therapy in male mice with HiAlc Kpn-induced steatohepatitis. Comprehensive investigations including transcriptomes and metabolomes revealed that treatment with HiAlc Kpn-specific phage was able to alleviate steatohepatitis caused by HiAlc Kpn, including hepatic dysfunction and expression of cytokines and lipogenic genes. In contrast, such treatment did not cause significantly pathological changes, either in functions of liver and kidney, or in components of gut microbiota. In addition to reducing alcohol attack, phage therapy also regulated inflammation, and lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. Our data suggest that phage therapy targeting gut microbiota is an alternative to antibiotics, with potential efficacy and safety, at least in HiAlc Kpn-caused NAFLD.

Gut microbiota influence anastomotic healing in colorectal cancer surgery through modulation of mucosal proinflammatory cytokines

OBJECTIVE

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most diagnosed cancer, and requires surgical resection and reconnection, or anastomosis, of the remaining bowel to re-establish intestinal continuity. Anastomotic leak (AL) is a major complication that increases mortality and cancer recurrence. Our objective is to assess the causal role of gut microbiota in anastomotic healing.

DESIGN

The causal role of gut microbiota was assessed in a murine AL model receiving faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from patients with CRC collected before surgery and who later developed or not, AL. Anastomotic healing and gut barrier integrity were assessed after surgery. Bacterial candidates implicated in anastomotic healing were identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and were isolated from faecal samples to be tested both in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

Mice receiving FMT from patients that developed AL displayed poor anastomotic healing. Profiling of gut microbiota of patients and mice after FMT revealed correlations between healing parameters and the relative abundance of Alistipes onderdonkii and Parabacteroides goldsteinii. Oral supplementation with A. onderdonkii resulted in a higher rate of leaks in mice, while gavage with P. goldsteinii improved healing by exerting an anti-inflammatory effect. Patients with AL and mice receiving FMT from AL patients presented upregulation of mucosal MIP-1α, MIP-2, MCP-1 and IL-17A/F before surgery. Retrospective analysis revealed that patients with AL present higher circulating neutrophil and monocyte counts before surgery.

CONCLUSION

Gut microbiota plays an important role in surgical colonic healing in patients with CRC. The impact of these findings may extend to a vast array of invasive gastrointestinal procedures.

Biopanning, Heterologous Expression, and Characterization of a Shark-Derived Single-Domain Antibody Fusion Protein against Pancreatic Lipase

Nowadays, obesity severely impacts human health and is the fifth leading risk factor that leads to death globally. Pancreatic lipase (PL) inhibitors have attracted extensive attention owing to their role in effective prevention and treatment of obesity. Here, a shark-derived single-domain antibody fusion protein was used to inhibit PL for the first time. After biopanning, the heterologous expression system pET28a-SUMO-D2 was constructed using the method of double restriction enzyme digestion and T4 ligase to achieve the soluble expression of the PL-specific antibody gene D2. According to the calculation of protein concentration, the final expression of fusion protein PL-D2S was 1.183 mg per liter of Luria Bertani broth. The binding ability of the soluble fusion protein PL-D2S to PL was identified. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results showed that the fusion protein PL-D2S exhibited a strong binding affinity to PL. The experimental results of PL inhibition of PL-D2S in vitro showed that the fusion protein could significantly inhibit the activity of PL, with an IC₅₀ of 404 μg/mL. Our study shows that the fusion protein PL-D2S is a potential PL inhibitor to prevent and treat obesity.

Ultrasonic assisted extraction, characterization and gut microbiota-dependent anti-obesity effect of polysaccharide from Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae 'Chachiensis'

Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae 'Chachiensis' (PCRC), the premium aged pericarps of Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae, is widely used in traditional Chinese medicines with a diversity of promising bioactivity. Herein we report the extraction, characterization and underlying mechanism of anti-metabolic syndrome of an arabinan-rich polysaccharide from PCRC (PCRCP). This polysaccharide was obtained in a 7.0% yield by using ultrasound-assisted extraction under the optimized conditions of 30 mL/g liquid-to-solid ratio, 250 W ultrasound power for 20 min at 90 °C with pH 4.5. The PCRCP with an average molecular weight of 122.0 kDa, is mainly composed of D-galacturonic acid, arabinose and galactose, which may link via 1,4-linked Gal(p)-UA, 1,4-linked Ara(f) and 1,4-linked Gal(p). Supplementation with PCRCP not only effectively alleviated the weight gain, adiposity and hyperglycemia, but also regulated the key metabolic pathways involved in the de novo synthesis and β-oxidation of fatty acid in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. Furthermore, PCRCP treatment caused a significant normalization in the intestinal barrier and composition of gut microbiota in mice fed by HFD. Notably, PCRCP selectively enriched Lactobacillus johnsonii at the family-genus-species levels, a known commensal bacterium, the level of which was decreased in mice fed by HFD. The depletion of microbiome induced by antibiotics, significantly compromised the effects of anti-metabolic syndrome of PCRCP in mice fed by HFD, demonstrating that the protective phenotype of PCRCP against anti-obesity is dependent on gut microbiota. PCRCP is exploitable as a potential prebiotic for the intervention of obesity and its complications.

Characterization of Two Parabacteroides distasonis Candidate Strains as New Live Biotherapeutics against Obesity

The gut microbiota is now considered as a key player in the development of metabolic dysfunction. Therefore, targeting gut microbiota dysbiosis has emerged as a new therapeutic strategy, notably through the use of live gut microbiota-derived biotherapeutics. We previously highlighted the anti-inflammatory abilities of two Parabacteroides distasonis strains. We herein evaluate their potential anti-obesity abilities and show that the two strains induced the secretion of the incretin glucagon-like peptide 1 in vitro and limited weight gain and adiposity in obese mice. These beneficial effects are associated with reduced inflammation in adipose tissue and the improvement of lipid and bile acid metabolism markers. P. distasonis supplementation also modified the Actinomycetota, Bacillota and Bacteroidota taxa of the mice gut microbiota. These results provide better insight into the capacity of P. distasonis to positively influence host metabolism and to be used as novel source of live biotherapeutics in the treatment and prevention of metabolic-related diseases.

Regulation of glucolipid metabolism and gut microbiota by green and black teas in hyperglycemic mice

A high-sugar and -fat diet (HSFD) has become a primary risk factor for diabetes, and dietary intervention shows a substantial effect on the prevention and management of hyperglycemia. In this study, the chemical compositions of the aqueous extracts of stir-fried green tea (GT) and congou black tea (BT) were compared. Moreover, their potential mechanisms and regulatory effects on hepatic glycolipid metabolism and gut microbiota disorders in hyperglycemic mice were further explored. Our results show that GT or BT intervention had a prominent regulatory effect on glycolipid metabolism. Moreover, they could significantly regulate the levels of serum metabolic signatures, the activities of key enzymes in liver glucose metabolism, and the expression of genes or proteins related to glycolipid metabolism via activating the IRS-1-PI3K/AKT-GLUT2 signaling pathway. Significantly, GT or BT administration adjusted the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota, mainly reflecting a significant increase in the abundance of beneficial bacteria (including Allobaculum, Lactobacillus, and Turicibacter) and reducing the abundance of harmful or conditionally pathogenic bacteria (mainly including Clostridiales and Bacteroides). Our results suggest that dietary supplementation with GT or BT could exert a practical anti-diabetic effect. Meanwhile, BT intervention showed a better regulation effect on glycolipid metabolism. This study reveals that GT and BT have excellent potential for developing anti-diabetic food.

Polysaccharides from Fu brick tea ameliorate obesity by modulating gut microbiota and gut microbiota-related short chain fatty acid and amino acid metabolism

Fu brick tea (FBT) is a traditional tea manufactured by solid-state fermentation of tea leaves (Camellia sinensis). Although anti-obesity effects have been reported for FBT, the associated role of FBT polysaccharides (PSs) and the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, we found that FBTPSs inhibited obesity, hyperlipidemia, and inflammation; improved intestinal barrier function; and alleviated gut microbiota dysbiosis in high-fat diet-fed rats. Akkermansia muciniphila, Bacteroides, Parasutterella, Desulfovibrio, and Blautia were the core microbes regulated by FBTPSs. FBTPSs regulated the production of gut microbiota-related metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), branched-chain amino acids, and aromatic amino acids throughout the development of obesity, and regulated the SCFA-GPR signaling pathway. FBTPS-treated fecal microbiota transplant ameliorated obesity, alleviated gut microbiota dysbiosis, and improved gut microbiota-associated metabolites, suggesting that the anti-obesity effect of FBTPSs was gut microbiota-dependent. FBTPSs may serve as novel prebiotic agents for the treatment of obesity and dysbiosis of gut microbiota.

A structure defined pectin SA02B from Semiaquilegia adoxoides is metabolized by human gut microbes

Polysaccharide is one of the major factors for shaping the gut microbiota. However, bioactivity of polysaccharide isolated from Semiaquilegia adoxoides on human gut microbiota remains unclear. Thus, we hypothesize gut microbes may act on it. Herein, pectin SA02B from the roots of Semiaquilegia adoxoides with molecular weight 69.26 kDa was elucidated. The backbone of SA02B was composed of alternate 1, 2-linked α-Rhap and 1, 4-linked α-GalpA, with branches of terminal (T) -, 1, 4-, 1, 3- and 1, 3, 6-linked β-Galp, T-, 1, 5- and 1, 3, 5-linked α-Araf and T-, 1, 4-linked-β-Xylp substituted at C-4 of 1, 2, 4-linked α-Rhap. Bioactivity screening showed SA02B promoted the growth of Bacteroides spp. which deconstructed it into monosaccharide. Simultaneously, we observed competition might exist between Bacteroides spp. and probiotics. Besides, we found that both Bacteroides spp. and probiotics could generate SCFAs grown on SA02B. Our findings highlight SA02B may deserve as a prebiotic to be explored to benefit the health gut microbiota.

Structural characterization and anti-osteoporosis effects of polysaccharide purified from Eucommia ulmoides Oliver cortex based on its modulation on bone metabolism

EuOCP3, with a molecular weight of 38.1 kDa, is an acidic polysaccharide purified from Eucommia ulmoides Oliver cortex. Herein, we determined that the main backbone of EuOCP3 was predominantly composed of →4)-α-GalpA-(1 → 4)-α-GalpA-(1→, →4)-α-GalpA-(1 → 5)-α-Araf-(1→, →4)-α-GalpA-(1 → 2)-α-Rhap-(1→, and →4)-α-GalpA-(1 → 5)-α-Araf-(1 → 2)-α-Rhap-(1 → repeating blocks, which were connected by →2,3,5)-α-Araf-(1→. The side chains, substituted at C-2 and C-5 of →2,3,5)-α-Araf-(1→, contained T-β-Araf→ and T-β-Araf → 4)-α-GalpA-(1 → residues. In dexamethasone (Dex)-induced osteoporosis (OP) mice, EuOCP3 treatment restored cortical bone thickness, increased mineralized bone area, enhanced the number of osteoblasts, and decreased the number of osteoclasts on the surface of cortical bone. Combining analysis of gut microflora, serum metabolite profiles, and biological detection results, we demonstrated that EuOCP3 regulated the abundance of specific species within the gut microflora, such as g_Dorea and g_Prevotella, and ameliorated oxidative stress. In turn, enhancement of osteogenic function and restoration of bone metabolism via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway was indicated. The current findings contribute to understanding the potential of EuOCP3 in anti-OP treatment.

Hypoglycemic effects of different molecular weight konjac glucomannans via intestinal microbiota and SCFAs mediated mechanism

The hypoglycemic effects of konjac glucomannans (KGMs) are well recognized, and our previous study showed KGMs with different molecular weight have different hypoglycemic effects on diabetes rats, but the detailed mechanisms still remain unclear. In this study, KGMs with medium molecular weight (KGM-M, 757.1 kDa) and low molecular weight (KGM-L, 87.3 kDa) were utilized to investigate the possible mechanism on hypoglycemic effects of type 2 diabetic (T2DM) rats. The results revealed that KGM-M had better effects than KGM-L on decreasing fasting blood glucose, mitigating insulin resistance and improving inflammation. Further mechanism analysis showed that KGM-M better enriched gut flora diversity and the abundance of Ruminococcus and Lachnoclostridium, which was accompanied by increased short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production and expression of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), and improved regulation on bile acid synthesis. Antibiotics treatment eliminated the beneficial effects of KGMs on gut flora, SCFAs, GPCRs and bile acid synthesis. By contrast, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) treatment restored the structure of intestinal microbiota. And after FMT treatment, KGM-M displayed higher hypoglycemic activity than KGM-L, probably due to the better effects on intestinal microbiota, SCFAs production, GPCRs expression and bile acid synthesis inhibition.

Combination of Lactobacillus plantarum HAC03 and Garcinia cambogia Has a Significant Anti-Obesity Effect in Diet-Induced Obesity Mice

Obesity is a major global health problem which is associated with various diseases and psychological conditions. Increasing understanding of the relationship between obesity and gut microbiota has led to a worldwide effort to use microbiota as a treatment for obesity. However, several clinical trials have shown that obesity treatment with single strains of probiotics did not achieve as significant results as in animal studies. To overcome this limitation, we attempted to find a new combination that goes beyond the effects of probiotics alone by combining probiotics and a natural substance that has a stronger anti-obesity effect. In this study, we used a diet-induced obesity mouse (DIO) model to investigate the effects of combining Lactobacillus plantarum HAC03 with Garcinia cambogia extract, as compared to the effects of each substance alone. Combining L. plantarum HAC03 and G. cambogia, treatment showed a more than two-fold reduction in weight gain compared to each substance administered alone. Even though the total amount administered was kept the same as for other single experiments, the combination treatment significantly reduced biochemical markers of obesity and adipocyte size, in comparison to the treatment with either substance alone. The treatment with a combination of two substances also significantly decreased the gene expression of fatty acid synthesis (FAS, ACC, PPARγ and SREBP1c) in mesenteric adipose tissue (MAT). Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the fecal microbiota suggested that the combination of L. plantarum HAC03 and G. cambogia extract treatment changed the diversity of gut microbiota and altered specific bacterial taxa at the genus level (the Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group and Lachnospiraceae UCG group) and specific functions (NAD salvage pathway I and starch degradation V). Our results support that the idea that the combination of L. plantarum HAC03 and G. cambogia extract has a synergistic anti-obesity effect by restoring the composition of the gut microbiota. This combination also increases the abundance of bacteria responsible for energy metabolism, as well as the production of SCFAs and BCAAs. Furthermore, no significant adverse effects were observed during the experiment.

The Role of Next-Generation Probiotics in Obesity and Obesity-Associated Disorders: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives

Obesity and obesity-associated disorders pose a major public health issue worldwide. Apart from conventional weight loss drugs, next-generation probiotics (NGPs) seem to be very promising as potential preventive and therapeutic agents against obesity. Candidate NGPs such as Akkermansia muciniphila, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Anaerobutyricum hallii, Bacteroides uniformis, Bacteroides coprocola, Parabacteroides distasonis, Parabacteroides goldsteinii, Hafnia alvei, Odoribacter laneus and Christensenella minuta have shown promise in preclinical models of obesity and obesity-associated disorders. Proposed mechanisms include the modulation of gut flora and amelioration of intestinal dysbiosis, improvement of intestinal barrier function, reduction in chronic low-grade inflammation and modulation of gut peptide secretion. Akkermansia muciniphila and Hafnia alvei have already been administered in overweight/obese patients with encouraging results. However, safety issues and strict regulations should be constantly implemented and updated. In this review, we aim to explore (1) current knowledge regarding NGPs; (2) their utility in obesity and obesity-associated disorders; (3) their safety profile; and (4) their therapeutic potential in individuals with overweight/obesity. More large-scale, multicentric and longitudinal studies are mandatory to explore their preventive and therapeutic potential against obesity and its related disorders.

Gut microbiota: A new target of traditional Chinese medicine for insomnia

All species have a physiological need for sleep, and sleep is crucial for the preservation and restoration of many physiological processes in the body. Recent research on the effects of gut microbiota on brain function has produced essential data on the relationship between them. It has been discovered that dysregulation of the gut-brain axis is related to insomnia. Certain metabolites of gut microbiota have been linked to insomnia, and disturbances in gut microbiota can worsen insomnia. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has unique advantages for the treatment of insomnia. Taking the gut microbiota as the target and determining the scientific relevance of TCM to the prevention and treatment of insomnia may lead to new concepts for the treatment of sleep disorders and improve the therapeutic effect of sleep. Taking the gut microbiota as an entry point, this paper reviews the relationship between gut microbiota and TCM, the relationship between gut microbiota and insomnia, the mechanism by which gut microbiota regulate sleep, and the mechanism by which TCM regulates gut microbiota for insomnia prevention and treatment. This review provides new ideas for the prevention and treatment of insomnia through TCM and new ideas for drug development.

Modulation of PPARα-thermogenesis gut microbiota interactions in obese mice administrated with zingerone

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to uncover the potential effects of zingerone (ZIN), one of the bioactive compounds in ginger, on the development of obesity as well as the mechanisms responsible for these effects in C57BL/6J mice fed with a high-fat diet (HFD).

RESULTS

Supplementation with 0.2% (wt/wt) zingerone for 16 weeks significantly reduced the final body weight, liver weight, and epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) weight without changing the food intake of the mice when compared with the HFD group. The hyperlipidemia of HFD-fed mice was ameliorated after zingerone administration, including decreased plasma triacylglycerol (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) level. The lipid content in liver was lower and the adipocyte size in eWAT and inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT) was smaller in HFD + ZIN-fed mice compared with HFD group. Zingerone also binds with nuclear hormone receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) with an optimal docking energy of -7.31 kJ/mol. Uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), PPAR-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), and PR domain containing 16 (PRDM16), the downstream genes of PPAR which are related to thermogenic function of adipocytes, were significantly increased in both brown adipose tissue (BAT) and inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT) after zingerone administration, in comparison with HFD fed mice. Zingerone intake also restructured the community composition of gut microbiota. The ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes was decreased, and the relative abundance of Akkermansia_mucinphila was increased.

CONCLUSION

Zingerone can attenuate obesity and related symptoms in HFD-fed mice, probably through the modulation of PPARα-thermogenesis-gut microbiota interactions. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Tamarind Xyloglucan Oligosaccharides Attenuate Metabolic Disorders via the Gut-Liver Axis in Mice with High-Fat-Diet-Induced Obesity

Functional oligosaccharides exert obesity-reducing effects by acting at various pathological sites responsible for the development of obesity. In this study, tamarind xyloglucan oligosaccharides (TXOS) were used to attenuate metabolic disorders via the gut-liver axis in mice with high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced obesity, as determined through LC/MS-MS and 16S rRNA sequencing technology. A TXOS dose equivalent to 0.39 g/kg/day in humans restored the gut microbiota in obese mice, which was in part supported by the key microflora, particularly Bifidobacterium pseudolongum. Moreover, TXOS reduced the abundance of opportunistic pathogen species, such as Klebsiella variicola and Romboutsia ilealis. The bodyweight and weight gain of TXOS-treated (4.8 g/kg per day) mice began to decrease at the 14th week, decreasing by 12.8% and 23.3%, respectively. Sixteen fatty acids were identified as potential biomarkers in the liver, and B. pseudolongum and caprylic acid were found to tightly regulate each other. This was associated with reduced inflammation in the liver, circulation, and adipose tissue and protection from metabolic disorders. The findings of this study indicate that TXOS can significantly increase the gut microbiota diversity of obese mice and restore the HFD-induced dysbiosis of gut microbiota.

Sciadonic acid attenuates high-fat diet-induced obesity in mice with alterations in the gut microbiota

Obesity has been reported to be associated with dysbiosis of gut microbiota. Sciadonic acid (SC) is one of the main functional components of Torreya grandis "Merrillii" seed oil. However, the effect of SC on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity has not been elucidated. In this study, we evaluated the effects of SC on lipid metabolism and the gut flora in mice fed with a high-fat diet. The results revealed that SC activates the PPARα/SREBP-1C/FAS signaling pathway and reduces the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerols (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), but increases the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and inhibits weight gain. Among them, high-dose SC was the most effective; the TC, TG and LDL-C levels were reduced by 20.03%, 28.40% and 22.07%, respectively; the HDL-C level was increased by 8.55%. In addition, SC significantly increased glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels by 98.21% and 35.17%, respectively, decreased oxidative stress, and ameliorated the pathological damage to the liver caused by a high-fat diet. Furthermore, SC treatment altered the composition of the intestinal flora, promoting the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, while simultaneously decreasing the relative abundance of potentially harmful bacteria such as Faecalibaculum, norank_f_Desulfovibrionaceae, and Romboutsia. Spearman's correlation analysis indicated that the gut microbiota was associated with SCFAs and biochemical indicators. In summary, our results suggested that SC can improve lipid metabolism disorders and regulate the gut microbial structure.

Herbal formula BaWeiBaiDuSan alleviates polymicrobial sepsis-induced liver injury via increasing the gut microbiota Lactobacillus johnsonii and regulating macrophage anti-inflammatory activity in mice

Sepsis-induced liver injury (SILI) is an important cause of septicemia deaths. BaWeiBaiDuSan (BWBDS) was extracted from a formula of Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer, Lilium brownie F. E. Brown ex Miellez var. viridulum Baker, Polygonatum sibiricum Delar. ex Redoute, Lonicera japonica Thunb., Hippophae rhamnoides Linn., Amygdalus Communis Vas, Platycodon grandiflorus (Jacq.) A. DC., and Cortex Phelloderdri. Herein, we investigated whether the BWBDS treatment could reverse SILI by the mechanism of modulating gut microbiota. BWBDS protected mice against SILI, which was associated with promoting macrophage anti-inflammatory activity and enhancing intestinal integrity. BWBDS selectively promoted the growth of Lactobacillus johnsonii (L. johnsonii) in cecal ligation and puncture treated mice. Fecal microbiota transplantation treatment indicated that gut bacteria correlated with sepsis and was required for BWBDS anti-sepsis effects. Notably, L. johnsonii significantly reduced SILI by promoting macrophage anti-inflammatory activity, increasing interleukin-10+ M2 macrophage production and enhancing intestinal integrity. Furthermore, heat inactivation L. johnsonii (HI-L. johnsonii) treatment promoted macrophage anti-inflammatory activity and alleviated SILI. Our findings revealed BWBDS and gut microbiota L. johnsonii as novel prebiotic and probiotic that may be used to treat SILI. The potential underlying mechanism was at least in part, via L. johnsonii-dependent immune regulation and interleukin-10+ M2 macrophage production.

Ocean acidification drives gut microbiome changes linked to species-specific immune defence

Ocean acidification (OA) has important effects on the intrinsic phenotypic characteristics of many marine organisms. Concomitantly, OA can alter the extended phenotypes of these organisms by perturbing the structure and function of their associated microbiomes. It is unclear, however, the extent to which interactions between these levels of phenotypic change can modulate the capacity for resilience to OA. Here, we explored this theoretical framework assessing the influence of OA on intrinsic (immunological responses and energy reserve) and extrinsic (gut microbiome) phenotypic characteristics and the survival of important calcifiers, the edible oysters Crassostrea angulata and C. hongkongensis. After one-month exposure to experimental OA (pH 7.4) and control (pH 8.0) conditions, we found species-specific responses characterised by elevated stress (hemocyte apoptosis) and decreased survival in the coastal species (C. angulata) compared with the estuarine species (C. hongkongensis). Phagocytosis of hemocytes was not affected by OA but in vitro bacterial clearance capability decreased in both species. Gut microbial diversity decreased in C. angulata but not in C. hongkongensis. Overall, C. hongkongensis was capable of maintaining the homeostasis of the immune system and energy supply under OA. In contrast, C. angulata's immune function was suppressed, and the energy reserve was imbalanced, which might be attributed to the declined microbial diversity and the functional loss of essential bacteria in the guts. This study highlights a species-specific response to OA determined by genetic background and local adaptation, shedding light on the understanding of host-microbiota-environment interactions in future coastal acidification.

Trust the gut: outcomes of gut microbiota transplant in metabolic and cognitive disorders

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a main public health concern, with increasing prevalence and growingly premature onset in children, in spite of emerging and successful therapeutic options. T2DM promotes brain aging, and younger age at onset is associated with a higher risk of subsequent dementia. Preventive strategies should address predisposing conditions, like obesity and metabolic syndrome, and be started from very early and even prenatal life. Gut microbiota is an emerging target in obesity, diabetes and neurocognitive diseases, which could be safely modulated since pregnancy and infancy. Many correlative studies have supported its involvement in disease pathophysiology. Faecal material transplantation (FMT) studies have been conducted in clinical and preclinical settings to deliver cause-effect proof and mechanistic insights. This review provides a comprehensive overview of studies in which FMT was used to cure or cause obesity, metabolic syndrome, T2DM, cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease, including the evidence available in early life. Findings were analysed to dissect consolidated from controversial results, highlighting gaps and possible future directions.

Ginsenoside Rb1 protects against diabetes-associated metabolic disorders in Kkay mice by reshaping gut microbiota and fecal metabolic profiles

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Panax quinquefolius Linn. is one of the most valuable herbal medicine in the world for its broad health benefits, including anti-diabetes. Ginsenoside Rb1, the principal active constituent of Panax quinquefolius Linn., could attenuate insulin resistance and metabolic disorders. The dysfunction of gut microbiota and fecal metabolites plays an important role in the pathogenesis of Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, whether ginsenoside Rb1's hypoglycemic effect is related to gut microbiota remains elusive.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Our study aimed to explore the insulin-sensitizing and anti-diabetic effects of ginsenoside Rb1 as well as the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The T2DM model were established by high fat diet (HFD)-induced Kkay mice. The anti-diabetic effect of ginsenoside Rb1 (200 mg/kg/day) was evaluated by random blood glucose (RBG), fasting blood glucose (FBG), glucose tolerance test (OGTT), serum insulin level, insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR), pancreatic histology analysis, liver indexes, total triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC). Subsequently, 16S rRNA sequencing and LC-MS-based untargeted metabolomics were applied to characterize the microbiome and metabolites profile in HFD-induced Kkay mice, respectively. Finally, antibiotic treatment was used to validate the potential mechanism of ginsenoside Rb1 by modulating gut microbiota.

RESULTS

Our results showed that ginsenoside Rb1 reduced blood glucose, OGTT, serum insulin level, HOMA-IR, liver indexes as well as pancreatic injury. In addition, the ginsenoside Rb1 reversed the gut microbiota dysbiosis in diabetic Kkay mice, as indicated by the elevated abundance of Parasutterella, decreased population of Alistipes, f_Prevotellaceae_unclassified, Odoribacter, Anaeroplasma. Moreover, ginsenoside Rb1 altered free fatty acid (FFA) levels in fecal metabolites, such as decreased the level of α-linolenic acid, 13-OxoODE, oleic acid, 13-HODE, arachidonic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, while increased the level of PC (14:0/22:1(13Z)) and PC (16:0/16:0). Notably, ginsenoside Rb1 failed to improve HFD-induced diabetes in Kkay mice with antibiotics intervention.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that ginsenoside Rb1 may serve as a potential prebiotic agent to modulate specific gut microbes and related metabolites, which play essential roles in diabetes-associated metabolic disorders and insulin resistance.

Effects of Nemacystus decipiens polysaccharide on mice with antibiotic associated diarrhea and colon inflammation

Antibiotic associated diarrhea (AAD) is a common side effect of antibiotic therapy in which gut microbiota plays an important role in the disease. However, the function of gut microbiota in this disease is still not entirely clear. Polysaccharides have shown strong activity in shaping gut microbiota. Whether the polysaccharide can intervene with the microbiota to improve ADD has not been determined. In this study, we extract crude polysaccharides from Nemacystus decipiens (N. decipiens), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), named NDH0. The crude polysaccharide NDH0 might significantly relieve the symptom of mice with AAD, including a reduction in body weight, shortening of cecum index and the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the colon. NDH0-treated mice exhibited more abundant gut microbial diversity; significantly increased the abundance of Muribaculum, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium and decreased the abundance of Enterobacter and Clostridioides at genus level. NDH0 treatment down-regulated the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β and IL-6 in colon tissue. NDH0 protected the integrity of colon tissues and partially inactivated the related inflammation pathway by maintaining occludin and SH2-containing Inositol 5'-Phosphatase (SHIP). NDH0 could alleviate symptoms of diarrhea by modulating gut microbiota composition, improving intestinal integrity and reducing inflammation. The underlying protective mechanism was to reduce the abundance of opportunistic pathogens and maintain SHIP protein expression. Collectively, our results demonstrated the role of NDH0 as a potential intestinal protective agent in gut dysbiosis.

Lactobacillus fermentum HNU312 alleviated oxidative damage and behavioural abnormalities during brain development in early life induced by chronic lead exposure

Lead exposure is a global public health safety issue that severely disrupts brain development and causes damage to the nervous system in early life. Probiotics and gut microbes have been highlighted for their critical roles in mitigating lead toxicity. However, the underlying mechanisms by which they work yet to be fully explored. Here, we designed a two-stage experiment using the probiotic Lactobacillus fermentum HNU312 (Lf312) to uncover how probiotics alleviate lead toxicity to the brain during early life. First, we explored the tolerance and adsorption of Lf312 to lead in vitro. Second, the adsorption capacity of the strain was determined and confirmed in vivo. The shotgun metagenome sequencing showed lead exposure-induced imbalance and dysfunction of the gut microbiome. In contrast, Lf312 intake significantly modulated the structure of the microbiome, increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria, and upregulated function-related metabolic pathways such as antioxidants. Notably, Lf312 enhanced the integrity of the blood-brain barrier by increasing the levels of SCFAs in the gut, alleviated inflammation in the brain, and ultimately improved anxiety-like and depression-like behaviours induced by lead exposure in mice. Subsequently, the effective mechanism was confirmed, highlighting that Lf312 worked through integrated strategies, including ionic adsorption and microbiota-gut-brain axis regulation. Collectively, this work elucidated the mechanism by which the gut microbiota mitigates the toxic effects of lead in the brain and provides preventive measures and intervention measures for brain damage due to mass lead poisoning in children.

Dietary metabolizable energy and crude protein levels affect pectoral muscle composition and gut microbiota in native growing chickens

The experiment aimed to study effects of dietary metabolizable energy (ME) and crude protein (CP) levels alone and in interaction on performance, pectoral muscle composition and gut microbiota in native growing chickens. A total of 648 10-wks-old Beijing-You Chicken (BYC) female chickens were randomly allocated to 9 groups with 6 replicates per group and 12 chickens per replicate, and the chickens were fed with a 3 × 3 factorial diets (3 levels of dietary ME: 11.31 MJ/kg, 11.51 MJ/kg, 11.71 MJ/kg; and 3 levels of dietary CP: 14%, 15%, 16%). The results showed that dietary ME and CP levels didn't affect average feed intake (AFI), body weight gain, feed gain ratio (P > 0.05), but ME level significantly affected the AFI (P < 0.05); mortality rate of 11.31 MJ/kg group was the highest (P < 0.05). Dietary ME, CP levels, and the interaction significantly affected pectoral CP and crude fat (CF) content of the growing chickens (P < 0.01). Dietary CP level had opposite effects on pectoral CP and CF content (P < 0.01). The 16% CP increased the pectoral CF content, which may have a negative impact on meat flavor. Dietary ME level affected 11 types of pectoral free amino acids (FAA) contents, including aspartic acid, L-threonine (P < 0.05), also amino acid classification, for example, total amino acid (TAA) and essential amino acid (EAA) content (P < 0.05). The 11.51 MJ/kg group had the highest TAA, EAA, delicious amino acid (DAA) content and EAA percentage (P < 0.05), while 11.31 MJ/kg group had the lowest bitter amino acid (BAA) content and BAA percentage and the highest fresh and sweet amino acid (FSAA) percentage (P < 0.05). Dietary CP level significantly affected glutamine and tyrosine content (P < 0.05). The interaction of dietary ME and CP level affected C20:3n6 content, saturated fatty acid (SFA), and unsaturated fatty acid (UFA) percentage (P < 0.05). The CP level significantly affected SFA percentage (P < 0.05). The 16% CP level increased the diversity of gut microbiota, but at the same time increased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria (P < 0.05), which is a sign of microbiota disorder. The increase of dietary ME level resulted in a gradual decrease in the diversity and relative abundance of gut microbiota. In conclusion, the present study suggested that the medium dietary ME (11.51 MJ/kg) and low CP (14-15%) levels can be helpful for enhancing pectoral muscle composition, increase meat quality such as flavor and nutritional value, and benefit for gut microbiota in native growing chickens.

Akkermansia muciniphila Alleviates Persistent Inflammation, Immunosuppression, and Catabolism Syndrome in Mice

Many patients in intensive care units, especially the elderly, suffer from chronic critical illness and exhibit a new pathophysiological phenotype: persistent inflammation, immunosuppression, and catabolism syndrome (PICS). Most patients with PICS have a constellation of digestive-system symptoms and gut failure. Akkermansia muciniphila (Akk) is a commensal gut bacterium that reduces inflammation, balances immune responses, modulates energy metabolism, and supports gut health. This study investigated the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of live and pasteurized Akk in treating PICS in a mouse model. PICS was induced on day 14 after performing cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) on day 1 and administrating lipopolysaccharide on day 11. Pasteurized or live Akk, or phosphate-buffered saline was administered twice daily by oral gavage for 7 days. Both live and pasteurized Akk attenuated PICS, as evidenced by reduced weight loss, and a reduction in symptoms and serum cytokine/chemokine levels. Liver and intestinal injuries were mitigated, and intestinal barrier integrity improved with Akk administration. Analysis of 16S rRNA amplicon sequences showed that Akk induced significant intestinal microbiota alterations, including increased abundance of Akk, Muribaculaceae, Parabacterbides goldsteinii, and decreased abundance of Escherichia_Shigella and Enterobacteriaceae. Collectively, Akk alleviates PICS by enhancing gut barrier function and reshaped the microbial community.