Role of Lactobacillus reuteri in Human Health and Diseases

Multi-omics reveals host metabolism associated with the gut microbiota composition in mice with dietary ε-polylysine

This study aimed to assess the influence of dietary supplementation of ε-polylysine on the gut microbiota and host nutrient metabolism, which is not systematically discussed by multi-omics analysis. A total of 40 mice were randomly divided into two groups exposed to either a basal diet (AIN-76A) or a basal diet with 150 ppm ε-polylysine. Fecal samples were collected for gut bacteria identification. Liver and plasma samples were collected for metabolomic and proteomic analyses. The results showed that ε-polylysine decreased the body weight of mice and affected the presence of certain types of intestinal microorganisms. The richness of the microbiota and number of phyla increased with age. ε-Polylysine affected the presence of genera and species, and either regulated or took part in the metabolism of energy, nitrogen, amino acids, lipids, carbohydrates, glycans, cofactors, and vitamins. The metabolite profiling showed that lipid and lipid-like molecules metabolites occupied the majority percent of plasma and liver metabolites. Additionally, ε-polylysine regulated the key role of metabolites and related metabolic enzymes in the metabolic pathways, especially phospholipid metabolism. In conclusion, dietary ε-polylysine improved the immunity of growing mice, and had a greater effect on the anabolism of nutrients in adult mice.

Human microbiome and metabolic health: An overview of systematic reviews

To summarize the microbiome's role in metabolic disorders (insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, type 2 diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease [NAFLD], and metabolic syndrome), systematic reviews on observational or interventional studies (prebiotics/probiotics/synbiotics/transplant) were searched in MEDLINE and Embase until September 2020. The 87 selected systematic reviews included 57 meta-analyses. Methodological quality (AMSTAR2) was moderate in 62%, 12% low, and 26% critically low. Observational studies on obesity (10 reviews) reported less gut bacterial diversity with higher Fusobacterium, Lactobacillus reuteri, Bacteroides fragilis, and Staphylococcus aureus, whereas lower Methanobrevibacter, Lactobacillus plantarum, Akkermansia muciniphila, and Bifidobacterium animalis compared with nonobese. For diabetes (n = 1), the same was found for Fusobacterium and A. muciniphila, whereas higher Ruminococcus and lower Faecalibacterium, Roseburia, Bacteroides vulgatus, and several Bifidobacterium spp. For NAFLD (n = 2), lower Firmicutes, Rikenellaceae, Ruminococcaceae, whereas higher Escherichia and Lactobacillus were detected. Discriminating bacteria overlapped between metabolic disorders, those with high abundance being often involved in inflammation, whereas those with low abundance being used as probiotics. Meta-analyses (n = 54) on interventional studies reported 522 associations: 54% was statistically significant with intermediate effect size and moderate between-study heterogeneity. Meta-evidence was highest for probiotics and lowest for fecal transplant. Future avenues include better methodological quality/comparability, testing functional differences, new intervention strategies, and considerating other body habitats and kingdoms.

Latilactobacillus curvatus BYB3 Isolated from Kimchi Alleviates Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-Induced Colitis in Mice by Inhibiting IL-6 and TNF-R1 Production

Recent studies have shown that probiotics have health-promoting effects, particularly intestinal immune modulation. In this study, we focused on the immunomodulatory properties of Latilactobacillus curvatus BYB3, formerly called Lactobacillus curvatus, isolated from kimchi. In a mouse model of 14-day dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis, treatment with L. curvatus BYB3 significantly decreased the disease activity index, colon length, and weight loss. Moreover, histological analyses showed that L. curvatus BYB3 protected the structural integrity of the intestinal epithelial layer and mucin-secreting goblet cells from DSS-induced damage, with only slight infiltration by immune cells. To evaluate the molecular mechanisms underlying L. curvatus BYB3-driven inhibition of interleukin 6 production, possible in vivo anti-inflammatory effects of L. curvatus BYB3 were examined in the same mouse model. In addition, significantly lower levels of IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 upregulation were seen in the DSS+BYB3 group (compared to that in the DSS group). These results indicate that L. curvatus BYB3 exhibits health-promoting effects via immune modulation; and therefore, it can be used to treat various inflammatory diseases.

Mango Pectic Oligosaccharides: A Novel Prebiotic for Functional Food

Prebiotics are functional food ingredients that assist probiotic growth and render many other health benefits. Mango peel is the biomass of the processing industry and has recently been value-added as a dietary fiber pectin. Besides its general use as a food additive, mango peel pectin (MPP) is partially hydrolyzed by pectinase to obtain pectic oligosaccharides (POSs) that have recently gained attention as novel prebiotic products and in medical research. This review describes probiotic candidates responsible for the digestion of pectin derivatives and the advantages of POSs as functional additives and their current best retrieval options. Mango pectic oligosaccharide (MPOS) recovery from low methoxyl MPP from mango with prebiotic performance both in vivo and in vitro environments is discussed. Current research gaps and potential developments in the field are also explored. The overall worthiness of this article is the potential use of the cheap-green food processing bioresource for high-value components.

Epithelial Heat Shock Proteins Mediate the Protective Effects of Limosilactobacillus reuteri in Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis

Defects in gut barrier function are implicated in gastrointestinal (GI) disorders like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as well as in systemic inflammation. With the increasing incidence of IBD worldwide, more attention should be paid to dietary interventions and therapeutics with the potential to boost the natural defense mechanisms of gut epithelial cells. The current study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Limosilactobacillus reuteri ATCC PTA 4659 in a colitis mouse model and delineate the mechanisms behind it. Wild-type mice were allocated to the control group; or given 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water for 7 days to induce colitis; or administered L. reuteri for 7 days as pretreatment; or for 14 days starting 7 days before subjecting to the DSS. Peroral treatment with L. reuteri improved colitis severity clinically and morphologically and reduced the colonic levels of Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (Tnf), Interleukin 1-β (Il1β), and nterferon-γ (Ifng), the crucial pro-inflammatory cytokines in colitis onset. It also prevented the CD11b+Ly6G+ neutrophil recruitment and the skewed immune responses in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) of CD11b+CD11c+ dendritic cell (DC) expansion and Foxp3+CD4+ T-cell reduction. Using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and RT-qPCR, we demonstrated a colitis-driven bacterial translocation to MLNs and gut microbiota dysbiosis that were in part counterbalanced by L. reuteri treatment. Moreover, the expression of barrier-preserving tight junction (TJ) proteins and cytoprotective heat shock protein (HSP) 70 and HSP25 was reduced by colitis but boosted by L. reuteri treatment. A shift in expression pattern was also observed with HSP70 in response to the pretreatment and with HSP25 in response to L. reuteri-DSS. In addition, the changes of HSPs were found to be correlated to bacterial load and epithelial cell proliferation. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the human-derived L. reuteri strain 4659 confers protection in experimental colitis in young mice, while intestinal HSPs may mediate the probiotic effects by providing a supportive protein–protein network for the epithelium in health and colitis.

The Effect of Oral Probiotics (Streptococcus Salivarius k12) on the Salivary Level of Secretory Immunoglobulin A, Salivation Rate, and Oral Biofilm: A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial

We aimed to assess the effect of oral probiotics containing the Streptococcus salivarius K12 strain on the salivary level of secretory immunoglobulin A, salivation rate, and oral biofilm. Thirty-one consenting patients meeting the inclusion criteria were recruited in this double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-arm, parallel-group study and randomly divided into probiotic (n = 15) and placebo (n = 16) groups. Unstimulated salivation rate, concentration of salivary secretory immunoglobulin A, Turesky index, and Papillary-Marginal-Attached index were assessed after 4 weeks of intervention and 2 weeks of washout. Thirty patients completed the entire study protocol. We found no increase in salivary secretory immunoglobulin A levels and salivary flow rates in the probiotic group compared with placebo. Baseline and outcome salivary secretory immunoglobulin A concentrations (mg/L) were 226 ± 130 and 200 ± 113 for the probiotic group and 205 ± 92 and 191 ± 97 for the placebo group, respectively. A significant decrease in plaque accumulation was observed in the probiotic group at 4 and 6 weeks. Within the limitations of the present study, it may be concluded that probiotic intake (Streptococcus salivarius K12) does not affect salivation rates and secretory immunoglobulin A salivary levels but exhibits a positive effect on plaque accumulation. Trial registration NCT05039320. Funding: none.

Relationship between Gut Microbiota and Bone Health

Gut microbiota (GM) are microorganisms that live in the host gastrointestinal tract, and their abundance varies throughout the host's life. With the development of sequencing technology, the role of GM in various diseases has been increasingly elucidated. Unlike earlier studies on orthopedic diseases, this review elucidates the correlation between GM health and bone health, and discusses the potential mechanism of GM effects on host metabolism, inflammation, and ability to induce or aggravate some common orthopedic diseases such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. Finally, the prospective methods of GM manipulation and evaluation of potential GM-targeting strategies in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic diseases are reviewed.

Regulation of tissue-resident memory T cells by the Microbiota

Resident memory T cells (Trms) predominantly reside within tissue and are critical for providing rapid protection against invasive viruses, fungi and bacteria. Given that tissues are heavily impacted and shaped by the microbiota, it stands to reason that Trms are also influenced by the microbiota that inhabits barrier sites. The influence of the microbiota is largely mediated by microbial production of metabolites which are crucial to the immune response to both viral infection and cancerous tumors. In addition to the effects of metabolites, antigens derived from the microbiota can activate T cell responses. While microbiota-specific T cells may assist in tissue repair, control of infection and anti-tumor immunity, the actual 'memory' potential of these cells remains unclear. Here, we hypothesize that memory responses to antigens from the microbiota must be 'licensed' by inflammatory signals activated by invasion of the host by microorganisms.

Virtual screening and in vitro experimental verification of LuxS inhibitors from natural products for Lactobacillus reuteri

The rapid proliferation and colonization of probiotics in the intestines are essential for human health. Quorum sensing (QS) is a communication mechanism among bacteria, which can regulate various bacterial crowd behavior. This study aimed to enhance the viability of Lactobacillus reuteri 1-12 by regulating QS. Herein, we built a database containing 72 natural products (previously reported) that can improve intestinal flora. Virtual screening (VS) was subsequently conducted to screen four potential active compounds. After that, molecular docking was conducted to analyze the binding mode of the four natural products to S-Ribosylhomocysteinase (LuxS). The results showed that norathyriol, mangiferin, baicalein, and kaempferol had good binding ability to LuxS. The validation experiment showed that norathyriol, mangiferin, baicalein, and kaempferol could inhibit the production of autoinducer-2 (AI-2). Moreover, mangiferin significantly increased L. reuteri 1-12 biomass and promoted L. reuteri 1-12 biofilm formation and structure. Besides, only mangiferin inhibited luxS expression, thus increasing L. reuteri 1-12 biomass. This research indicated that mangiferin may be a potential inhibitor of LuxS, promoting the probiotic properties of L. reuteri and human health.

Limosilactobacillus reuteri in Health and Disease

Limosilactobacillus reuteri is a microorganism with valuable probiotic qualities that has been widely employed in humans to promote health. It is a well-studied probiotic bacterium that exerts beneficial health effects due to several metabolic mechanisms that enhance the production of anti-inflammatory cytochines and modulate the gut microbiota by the production of antimicrobial molecules, including reuterin. This review provides an overview of the data that support the role of probiotic properties, and the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects of some L. reuteri strains in relation to their metabolite production profile on the amelioration of many diseases and disorders. Although the results discussed in this paper are strain dependent, they show that L. reuteri, by different mechanisms and various metabolites, may control body weight and obesity, improve insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis, increase gut integrity and immunomodulation, and attenuate hepatic disorders. Gut microbiota modulation by ingesting probiotic L. reuteri strains could be a promising preventative and therapeutic approach against many diseases and disorders.

The Clinical, Microbiological, and Immunological Effects of Probiotic Supplementation on Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

(1) Background: Periodontal diseases are a global health concern. They are multi-stage, progressive inflammatory diseases triggered by the inflammation of the gums in response to periodontopathogens and may lead to the destruction of tooth-supporting structures, tooth loss, and systemic health problems. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of probiotic supplementation on the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease based on the assessment of clinical, microbiological, and immunological outcomes. (2) Methods: This study was registered under PROSPERO (CRD42021249120). Six databases were searched: PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Dentistry and Oral Science Source. The meta-analysis assessed the effects of probiotic supplementation on the prevention and treatment of periodontal diseases and reported them using Hedge’s g standardized mean difference (SMD). (3) Results: Of the 1883 articles initially identified, 64 randomized clinical trials were included in this study. The results of this meta-analysis indicated statistically significant improvements after probiotic supplementation in the majority of the clinical outcomes in periodontal disease patients, including the plaque index (SMD = 0.557, 95% CI: 0.228, 0.885), gingival index, SMD = 0.920, 95% CI: 0.426, 1.414), probing pocket depth (SMD = 0.578, 95% CI: 0.365, 0.790), clinical attachment level (SMD = 0.413, 95% CI: 0.262, 0.563), bleeding on probing (SMD = 0.841, 95% CI: 0.479, 1.20), gingival crevicular fluid volume (SMD = 0.568, 95% CI: 0.235, 0.902), reduction in the subgingival periodontopathogen count of P. gingivalis (SMD = 0.402, 95% CI: 0.120, 0.685), F. nucleatum (SMD = 0.392, 95% CI: 0.127, 0.658), and T. forsythia (SMD = 0.341, 95% CI: 0.050, 0.633), and immunological markers MMP-8 (SMD = 0.819, 95% CI: 0.417, 1.221) and IL-6 (SMD = 0.361, 95% CI: 0.079, 0.644). (4) Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that probiotic supplementation improves clinical parameters, and reduces the periodontopathogen load and pro-inflammatory markers in periodontal disease patients. However, we were unable to assess the preventive role of probiotic supplementation due to the paucity of studies. Further clinical studies are needed to determine the efficacy of probiotic supplementation in the prevention of periodontal diseases.

Use of Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in paediatric gastrointestinal disorders: an updated review

Strains of lactobacilli are the most widely used probiotics and can be found in a large variety of food products and food supplements throughout the world. In this study, the evidence on Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (LR DSM 17938) has been reviewed. This species secretes reuterin and other substances singularly or in microvesicles, inhibiting pathogen growth and interacting with the intestinal microbiota and mucosa, restoring homeostasis. The use of LR DSM 17938 has been exploited in several pathological conditions. Preclinical research has shown that this probiotic can ameliorate dysbiosis and, by interacting with intestinal mucosal cells, can raise the pain threshold and promote gastrointestinal motility. These aspects are amongst the significant components in functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as colic and regurgitation in infants, functional abdominal pain and functional constipation in children and adolescents. This strain can decrease the duration of acute diarrhoea and hospitalization for acute gastroenteritis but does not seem to prevent nosocomial diarrhoea and antibiotic-associated diarrhoea. Because of its ability to survive in the gastric environment, it has been tested in Helicobacter pylori infection, showing a significant decrease of antibiotic-associated side effects and a tendency to increase the eradication rate. Finally, all these studies have shown the excellent safety of LR DSM 17938 even at higher dosages. In conclusion data from various clinical trials here reviewed can guide the clinician to find the correct dose, frequency of administration, and therapy duration.

Innovative method to grow the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri in the omega3-rich microalga Isochrysis galbana

Microalgae are natural sources of valuable bioactive compounds, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), that show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antimicrobial activities. The marine microalga Isochrysis galbana (I. galbana) is extremely rich in ω3 PUFAs, mainly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Probiotics are currently suggested as adjuvant therapy in the management of diseases associated with gut dysbiosis. The Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri), one of the most widely used probiotics, has been shown to produce multiple beneficial effects on host health. The present study aimed to present an innovative method for growing the probiotic L. reuteri in the raw seaweed extracts from I. galbana as an alternative to the conventional medium, under conditions of oxygen deprivation (anaerobiosis). As a result, the microalga I. galbana was shown for the first time to be an excellent culture medium for growing L. reuteri. Furthermore, the gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry analysis showed that the microalga-derived ω3 PUFAs were still available after the fermentation by L. reuteri. Accordingly, the fermented compound (FC), obtained from the growth of L. reuteri in I. galbana in anaerobiosis, was able to significantly reduce the adhesiveness and invasiveness of the harmful adherent-invasive Escherichia coli to intestinal epithelial cells, due to a cooperative effect between L. reuteri and microalgae-released ω3 PUFAs. These findings open new perspectives in the use of unicellular microalgae as growth medium for probiotics and in the production of biofunctional compounds.

Safety and efficacy of a probiotic-containing infant formula supplemented with 2'-fucosyllactose: a double-blind randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) have important and diverse biological functions in early life. This study tested the safety and efficacy of a starter infant formula containing Limosilactobacillus (L.) reuteri DSM 17938 and supplemented with 2'-fucosyllactose (2'FL).

METHODS

Healthy infants < 14 days old (n = 289) were randomly assigned to a bovine milk-based formula containing L. reuteri DSM 17938 at 1 × 10⁷ CFU/g (control group; CG) or the same formula with added 1.0 g/L 2'FL (experimental group; EG) until 6 months of age. A non-randomized breastfed group served as reference (BF; n = 60). The primary endpoint was weight gain through 4 months of age in the formula-fed infants. Secondary endpoints included additional anthropometric measures, gastrointestinal tolerance, stooling characteristics, adverse events (AEs), fecal microbiota and metabolism, and gut immunity and health biomarkers in all feeding groups.

RESULTS

Weight gain in EG was non-inferior to CG as shown by a mean difference [95% CI] of 0.26 [-1.26, 1.79] g/day with the lower bound of the 95% CI above the non-inferiority margin (-3 g/day). Anthropometric Z-scores, parent-reported stooling characteristics, gastrointestinal symptoms and associated behaviors, and AEs were comparable between formula groups. Redundancy analysis indicated that the microbiota composition in EG was different from CG at age 2 (p = 0.050) and 3 months (p = 0.052), approaching BF. Similarly, between sample phylogenetic distance (weighted UniFrac) for BF vs EG was smaller than for BF vs CG at 3-month age (p = 0.045). At age 1 month, Clostridioides difficile counts were significantly lower in EG than CG. Bifidobacterium relative abundance in EG tracked towards that in BF. Fecal biomarkers and metabolic profile were comparable between CG and EG.

CONCLUSION

L. reuteri-containing infant formula with 2'FL supports age-appropriate growth, is well-tolerated and may play a role in shifting the gut microbial pattern towards that of breastfed infants.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT03090360 ) on 24/03/2017.

Oral administration of Lactobacillus delbrueckii enhances intestinal immunity through inducing dendritic cell activation in suckling piglets

Lactobacillus delbrueckii (LAB) has been demonstrated to exert versatile beneficial effects on modulating intestinal immunity, increasing gut microbial diversity, promoting growth performance, and even preventing disease onset in pigs. However, the underlying mechanism of LAB-mediated gut immunity regulation in piglets remains unclear. In this study, we found that supplementation of LAB significantly increases serum TNF-α, ileum IL-4, and IL-10 levels compared with the control group. Meanwhile, oral supplementation of LAB-modified gut microbial communities was evidenced by the increased abundance of the Lactobacillus genus in the colon. Mechanistically, LAB induced dendritic cell (DC) maturation and activation, which may be relevant to the activation of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Moreover, we found that oral administration of LAB during the suckling period shows long-lasting immunomodulatory impacts on intestinal immunity after weaning. Collectively, this study uncovers the mechanism of LAB in regulating the intestinal immunity of piglets, suggesting that LAB can be developed as an immunoenhancing biological agent during the suckling period.

Lactobacillus reuteri-an old acquaintance takes on a new task in colorectal tumor surveillance

In this issue of Cancer Cell, Bell et al. identify the commensal bacterium Lactobacillus reuteri and its major metabolite reuterin as an important gatekeeper and promising target in colorectal cancerogenesis. They decipher a metabolic interplay in which L. reuteri is suppressed by metabolites from dysplastic intestinal epithelial cells which in turn are highly sensitive to the oxidative effects of the electrophile reuterin.

The gut microbiome and antibiotic resistome of chronic diarrhea rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) and its similarity to the human gut microbiome

BACKGROUND

Chronic diarrhea is a common disease causing morbidity and mortality of captive rhesus macaques (RMs, Macaca mulatta). Chronic diarrhea in RMs is typically characterized by long-term diarrhea and a weak response to antibiotic treatment. Diarrhea is also a common disease in humans and can cause death. However, the etiology of about half of diarrheal cases of humans is still unclear. Therefore, we performed shotgun metagenomic sequencing to characterize the differences in the gut microbiome and resistome of chronic diarrhea RMs and asymptomatic individuals.

RESULTS

Our results showed Lactobacillus spp. (mainly L. johnsonii, L. reuteri and L. amylovorus) were significantly depleted in chronic diarrhea RM guts compared to asymptomatic individuals (5.2 vs 42.4%). Functional annotation of genes suggested these Lactobacillus spp. carried genes involved in the adhesion of intestinal epithelial cells and production of bacteriocin. Chronic diarrhea RM guts also had a significantly greater abundance of many other gut bacteria, including mucin-degrading bacteria and opportunistic pathogens. The metabolic pathways of chronic diarrhea RM gut microbiome were enriched in aerobactin biosynthesis, while the metabolic pathways of asymptomatic RM gut microbiome were enriched in the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Chronic diarrhea RM guts had a significantly greater abundance of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), such as ermF, aph(3')-IIIa, ermB, and floR. The strains isolated from feces and tissue fluid of chronic diarrhea RMs had higher resistance rates to the majority of tested antibiotics, but not cephamycin and carbapenem antibiotics. Gut microbial composition comparisons showed that several captive nonhuman primate (NHP) guts were more similar to the guts of humans with a non-westernized diet than humans with a westernized diet. Chronic diarrhea RM gut microbiome was strikingly similar to rural-living humans with diarrhea and humans with a non-westernized diet than asymptomatic RMs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggested chronic diarrhea significantly altered the composition and metabolic pathways of the RM gut microbiome. The frequent use of antibiotics caused antibiotic resistance in chronic diarrhea RM gut microbiome with serious consequences for individual treatment and survival. The findings of this study will help us to improve the effective prevention and treatment of diarrhea in RMs. Video Abstract.

Identification of soybean peptides and their effect on the growth and metabolism of Limosilactobacillus reuteri LR08

Lactic acid bacteria are one of the most pivotal probiotics. Promoting their viability could be an effective method to modulate the balance of intestinal flora, thereby improving human health. The current solution is to take advantage of carbon-sourced prebiotics, while protein and peptides with potential prebiotic functions have not been investigated. Soy proteins and peptides have been proven to enhance the growth and metabolism of Lactobacillus. However, research on the relationship between strains of lactobacilli and the structure of soybean peptides is still limited. In the present study, soybean protein and peptides effectively increased the growth and organic acid secretion of Limosilactobacillus reuteri LR08. Additionally, soybean peptides and fructooligosaccharides showed synergistic effects in modulating Limosilactobacillus reuteri LR08. Fraction 1 acquired from soy peptides using RP-HPLC exhibited the most effectiveness and several novel peptides were identified. These results could theoretically and practically benefit soybean peptide application as a potential prebiotic.

In silico, in vitro and in vivo safety evaluation of Limosilactobacillus reuteri strains ATCC PTA-126787 & ATCC PTA-126788 for potential probiotic applications

The last two decades have witnessed a tremendous growth in probiotics and in the numbers of publications on their potential health benefits. Owing to their distinguishing beneficial effects and long history of safe use, species belonging to the Lactobacillus genus are among the most widely used probiotic species in human food and dietary supplements and are finding increased use in animal feed. Here, we isolated, identified, and evaluated the safety of two novel Limosilactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) isolates, ATCC PTA-126787 & ATCC PTA-126788. More specifically, we sequenced the genomes of these two L. reuteri strains using the PacBio sequencing platform. Using a combination of biochemical and genetic methods, we identified the two strains as belonging to L. reuteri species. Detailed in silico analyses showed that the two strains do not encode for any known genetic sequences of concern for human or animal health. In vitro assays confirmed that the strains are susceptible to clinically relevant antibiotics and do not produce potentially harmful by-products such as biogenic amines. In vitro bile and acid tolerance studies demonstrated that the two strains have similar survival profiles as the commercial L. reuteri probiotic strain DSM 17938. Most importantly, daily administration of the two probiotic strains to broiler chickens in drinking water for 26 days did not induce any adverse effect, clinical disease, or histopathological lesions, supporting the safety of the strains in an in vivo avian model. All together, these data provide in silico, in vitro and in vivo evidence of the safety of the two novel candidates for potential probiotic applications in humans as well as animals.

Impact of Co-Delivery of EGCG and Tuna Oil within a Broccoli Matrix on Human Gut Microbiota, Phenolic Metabolites and Short Chain Fatty Acids In Vitro

(-)-Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and tuna oil (TO) are beneficial bioactive compounds. EGCG, TO or a combination of, delivered by broccoli by-products (BBP), were added to an in vitro anaerobic fermentation system containing human fecal inocula to examine their ability to generate short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), metabolize EGCG and change the gut microbiota population (assessed by 16 S gene sequencing). Following 24 h fermentation, EGCG was hydrolyzed to (-)-epigallocatechin and gallic acid. EGCG significantly inhibited the production of SCFA (p < 0.05). Total SCFA in facal slurries with BBP or TO-BBP (48–49 µmol/mL) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the negative control with cellulose (21 µmol/mL). EGCG-BBP and TO-EGCG-BBP treatment increased the relative abundance of Gluconacetobacter, Klebsiella and Trabulsiella. BBP and TO-BBP showed the greatest potential for improving gut health with the growth promotion of high butyrate producers, including Collinsella aerofaciens, Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus reuteri.

Changes in Metabolic Regulation and the Microbiota Composition after Supplementation with Different Fatty Acids in db/db Mice

Introduction

The effects of fatty acids on health vary and depend on the type, amount, and route of consumption. EPA and DHA have a defined role in health, unlike coconut oil.

Objective

The aim was to investigate the changes in metabolic regulation and the composition of the culture-dependent microbiota after supplementation with different fatty acids in db/db mice. Material and Methods. We were using 32 8-week-old db/db mice, supplemented for eight weeks with EPA/DHA derived from microalgae as well as coconut oil. The lipid, hormonal profiles, and composition of the culture-dependent microbiota and the phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequencing were determined for identification of the intestinal microbiota.

Results

Enriched diet with EPA/DHA reduced TNF-α, C-peptide, insulin resistance, resistin, and the plasma atherogenic index, but increased TC, LDL-c, VLDL-c, and TG without changes in HDL-c. Coconut oil raised the HDL-c, GIP, and TNF-α, with TG, insulin resistance, adiponectin, and C-peptide reduced.

Conclusion

The most abundant microbial populations were Firmicutes and the least Proteobacteria. EPA/DHA derived from microalgae contributes to improving the systemic inflammatory status, but depressed the diversity of the small intestine microbiota. Coconut oil only decreased the C-peptide, raising TNF-α, with an unfavorable hormonal and lipid profile.

Probiotics in the Prevention of the Calcium Oxalate Urolithiasis

Nephrolithiasis ranks third among urological diseases in terms of prevalence, making up about 15% of cases. The continued increase in the incidence of nephrolithiasis is most probably due to changes in eating habits (high protein, sodium, and sugar diets) and lifestyle (reduced physical activity) in all developed countries. Some 80% of all kidney stones cases are oxalate urolithiasis, which is also characterized by the highest risk of recurrence. Frequent relapses of nephrolithiasis contribute to severe complications and high treatment costs. Unfortunately, there is no known effective way to prevent urolithiasis at present. In cases of diet-related urolithiasis, dietary changes may prevent recurrence. However, in some patients, the condition is unrelated to diet; in such cases, there is evidence to support the use of stone-related medications. Interestingly, a growing body of evidence indicates the potential of the microbiome to reduce the risk of developing renal colic. Previous studies have primarily focused on the use of Oxalobacterformigenes in patients with urolithiasis. Unfortunately, this bacterium is not an ideal probiotic due to its antibiotic sensitivity and low pH. Therefore, subsequent studies sought to find bacteria which are capable of oxalate degradation, focusing on well-known probiotics including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, Eubacterium lentum, Enterococcus faecalis, and Escherichia coli.

Protective Effects of Novel Lactobacillaceae Strains Isolated from Chicken Caeca against Necrotic Enteritis Infection: In Vitro and In Vivo Evidences

The present study aimed to show the benefits of novel lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains isolated from the caeca of healthy chickens. These novel strains, identified as Limosilactobacillus reuteri and Ligilactobacillus salivarius, displayed high levels of lactic acid production, capability of biofilm formation, high aggregation and adhesion scores, and significant survival rates under conditions mimicking the chicken gastrointestinal tract (GIT). In addition, these novel Lactobacillaceae isolates were neither hemolytic nor cytotoxic. In vivo trials were able to establish their ability to reduce necrotic enteritis. Notably, a significant weight gain was registered, on day 10 of treatment, in the group of chickens fed with a mixture of L. reuteri ICVB416 and L. salivarius ICVB430 strains, as compared with the control group. This group has also shown a reduced number of lesions in the gut compared with other infected chicken groups. This study provides in vitro and in vivo evidence supporting the benefits of these novel Lactobacillaceae isolates for their use in poultry livestock as protective cultures to control the bacterial necrotic enteritis (NE) Clostridium perfringens.

Role of Lactobacillus reuteri&nbsp;DSM 17938 on Crying Time Reduction in Infantile Colic and Its Impact on Maternal Depression: A Real-Life Clinic-Based Study

BACKGROUND

Infantile colic is characterized by prolonged periods of inconsolable, incessant crying and persistent fussing in an otherwise healthy infant. It is a self-limiting condition, but causes significant stress to mothers.

AIM

To observe the role of Lactobacillus reuteriDSM 17938 in reducing crying time in colicky infants in routine clinical practice.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational multicentric clinic-based study. Each practitioner included approximately 30 infants < 5 months of age with infantile colic who were prescribed L. reuteri DSM 17938 for a period of 21 days. There were four physical consultations and two telephonic consultations. The parents were given a daily diary to record the duration of crying and fussing episodes and a questionnaire was administered during the consultations.

RESULTS

A total of 120 infants with a mean age of 56.9 ± 34.2 days were included in this 28-day study. The mean crying time as reported by the parents in the subject diary reduced from 248.2 ± 101.2 min, 95% CI: 229.45, 266.94 at baseline to 45.6 ± 79.1 min 95% CI: 31.02, 60.31 at study end (P < 0.01). The clinical response (defined as reduction of 50% in crying time) was observed in 85% of subjects at study end. The fussiness and parental perception of colic recorded during the consultations were reduced by 66% and 72%, respectively, at study end. The maternal depression scores were reduced to 63% at study end.

CONCLUSION

L. reuteri DSM 17938 was associated with a significant reduction in crying time in colicky infants, and showed improvement in maternal depression.

Oral and Gut Microbial Dysbiosis and Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: The Central Role of Porphyromonas gingivalis

Gut microbiota play many important roles, such as the regulation of immunity and barrier function in the intestine, and are crucial for maintaining homeostasis in living organisms. The disruption in microbiota is called dysbiosis, which has been associated with various chronic inflammatory conditions, food allergies, colorectal cancer, etc. The gut microbiota is also affected by several other factors such as diet, antibiotics and other medications, or bacterial and viral infections. Moreover, there are some reports on the oral-gut-liver axis indicating that the disruption of oral microbiota affects the intestinal biota. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the systemic diseases caused due to the dysregulation of the oral-gut-liver axis. NAFLD is the most common liver disease reported in the developed countries. It includes liver damage ranging from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis, and cancer. Recently, accumulating evidence supports an association between NAFLD and dysbiosis of oral and gut microbiota. Periodontopathic bacteria, especially Porphyromonas gingivalis, have been correlated with the pathogenesis and development of NAFLD based on the clinical and basic research, and immunology. P. gingivalis was detected in the liver, and lipopolysaccharide from this bacteria has been shown to be involved in the progression of NAFLD, thereby indicating a direct role of P. gingivalis in NAFLD. Moreover, P. gingivalis induces dysbiosis of gut microbiota, which promotes the progression of NAFLD, through disrupting both metabolic and immunologic pathways. Here, we review the roles of microbial dysbiosis in NAFLD. Focusing on P. gingivalis, we evaluate and summarize the most recent advances in our understanding of the relationship between oral-gut microbiome symbiosis and the pathogenesis and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, as well as discuss novel strategies targeting both P. gingivalis and microbial dysbiosis.

Evaluation of the Antibacterial and Prebiotic Potential of Ascophyllum nodosum and Its Extracts Using Selected Bacterial Members of the Pig Gastrointestinal Microbiota

Ascophyllum nodosum and its extracts are promising antibacterial and prebiotic dietary supplements for pigs. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of the increasing concentrations of: (1) two whole biomass samples of A. nodosum with different harvest seasons, February (ANWB-F) and November (ANWB-N), in a weaned pig faecal batch fermentation assay, and (2) A. nodosum extracts produced using four different extraction conditions of a hydrothermal-assisted extraction methodology (ANE1-4) and conventional extraction methods with water (ANWE) and ethanol (ANEE) as solvent in individual pure culture growth assays using a panel of beneficial and pathogenic bacterial strains. In the batch fermentation assay, ANWB-F reduced Bifidobacterium spp. counts (p < 0.05) while ANWB-N increased total bacterial counts and reduced Bifidobacterium spp. and Enterobacteriaceae counts (p < 0.05). Of the ANE1-4, produced from ANWB-F, ANWE and ANEE that were evaluated in the pure culture growth assays, the most interesting extracts were the ANE1 that reduced Salmonella Typhimurium, enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli and B. thermophilum counts and the ANE4 that stimulated B. thermophilum growth (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the extraction method and conditions influenced the bioactivities of the A. nodosum extracts with ANE1 and ANE4 exhibiting distinct antibacterial and prebiotic properties in vitro, respectively, that merit further exploration.

A bovine lactoferricin-lactoferrampin-encoding Lactobacillus reuteri CO21 regulates the intestinal mucosal immunity and enhances the protection of piglets against enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli K88 challenge

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) is an important cause of diarrhea in human and animal. To determine the mechanism of a bovine lactoferricin-lactoferrampin (LFCA)-encoding Lactobacillus reuteri CO21 (LR-LFCA) to enhance the intestinal mucosal immunity, we used a newborn piglet intestine model to study the intestinal response to ETEC. Pigs were chosen due to the anatomical similarity between the porcine and the human intestine.4-day-old piglets were orally administered with LR-LFCA, LR-con (L. reuteri CO21 transformed with pPG612 plasmid) or phosphate buffered saline (PBS) for three consecutive days, within 21 days after these treatments, we found that LR-LFCA can colonize the intestines of piglets, improve the growth performance, enhance immune response and is beneficial for intestinal health of piglets by improving intestinal barrier function and modulating the composition of gut microbiota. Twenty-one days after, piglets were infected with ETEC K88 for 5 days, we found that oral administration of LR-LFCA to neonatal piglets attenuated ETEC-induced the weight loss of piglets and diarrhea incidence. LR-LFCA decreased the production of inflammatory factors and oxidative stress in intestinal mucosa of ETEC-infected piglets. Additionally, LR-LFCA increased the expression of tight junction proteins in the ileum of ETEC-infected piglets. Using LPS-induced porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) in vitro, we demonstrated that LR-LFCA-mediated increases in the tight junction proteins might depend on the MLCK pathway; LR-LFCA might increase the anti-inflammatory ability by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway. We also found that LR-LFCA may enhance the antioxidant capacity of piglets by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. This study demonstrates that LR-LFCA is effective at maintaining intestinal epithelial integrity and host homeostasis as well as at repairing intestinal damage after ETEC infection and is thus a promising alternative therapeutic method for intestinal inflammation.

Effect of Long-Term and Short-Term Imbalanced Zn Manipulation on Gut Microbiota and Screening for Microbial Markers Sensitive to Zinc Status

Zinc (Zn) imbalance is a common single-nutrient disorder worldwide, but little is known about the short-term and long-term effects of imbalanced dietary zinc in the intestinal microbiome. Here, 3-week-old C57BL/6 mice were fed diets supplemented with Zn at the doses of 0 (low Zn), 30 (control Zn), 150 (high Zn), and 600 mg/kg of body weight (excess Zn) for 4 weeks (short term) and 8 weeks (long term). The gut bacterial composition at the phyla, genus, and species levels were changed as the result of the imbalanced Zn diet (e.g., Lactobacillus reuteri and Akkermansia muciniphila). Moreover, pathways including carbohydrate, glycan, and nucleotide metabolism were decreased by a short-term low-Zn diet. Valeriate production was suppressed by a long-term low-Zn diet. Pathways such as drug resistance and infectious diseases were upregulated in high- and excess-Zn diets over 4-week and 8-week intervals. Long-term zinc fortification doses, especially at the high-Zn level, suppressed the abundance of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing genera as well as the concentrations of metabolites. Finally, Melainabacteria (phylum) and Desulfovibrio sp. strain ABHU2SB (species) were identified to be potential markers for Zn status with high accuracy (area under the curve [AUC], >0.8). Collectively, this study identified significant changes in gut microbial composition and its metabolite concentration in altered Zn-fed mice and the relevant microbial markers for Zn status. IMPORTANCE Zn insufficiency is an essential health problem in developing countries. To prevent the occurrence of zinc deficit, zinc fortification and supplementation are widely used. However, in developed countries, the amounts of Zn consumed often exceed the tolerable upper intake limit. Our results demonstrated that dietary Zn is an essential mediator of microbial community structure and that both Zn deficiency and Zn overdose can generate a dysbiosis in the gut microbiota. Moreover, specific microbial biomarkers of Zn status were identified and correlated with serum Zn level. Our study found that a short-term low-Zn diet (0 mg/kg) and a long-term high-zinc diet (150 mg/kg) had obvious negative effects in a mouse model. Thus, these results indicate that the provision and duration of supplemental Zn should be approached with caution.

Imbalanced Dermic Microbiome Aggravates Inflammation in Toenail Paronychia

The commensal microbiome influences skin immunity, but its function in toenail health remains unclear. Paronychia is one of the most common inflammatory toenail diseases, but antibiotic treatment is seldom effective in clinical cases. In this study, we performed 16S rRNA sequencing to investigate the characteristics of microbes associated with paronychia in order to identify the key microorganisms involved in inflammation. Seventy dermic samples were collected from patients with paronychia and the differences in dermic microbiota were analyzed in patients with different inflammation severities. Distinct clustering of dermal microbiota was observed in the dermis with different inflammation severities. A higher relative abundance of anaerobic microorganisms such as Parvimona, Prevotella, and Peptoniphilus was observed in severe paronychia, whereas Lactobacillus disappeared with disease progression. Co-occurring network analysis suggested that the disturbance of the dermic microbiome and attenuation of antagonism by Lactobacillus against anaerobic pathogens may aggravate inflammation in paronychia. Functional analysis showed that dermic microbiome disturbance may worsen microbial metabolism and tissue repair in the skin. In conclusion, we revealed that an increased abundance of anaerobic microorganisms and loss of Lactobacillus in the dermis may promote paronychia progression and microbiological imbalance may aggravate inflammation in patients with paronychia.

Reuterin-producing Limosilactobacillus reuteri: Optimization of in situ reuterin production in alginate-based filmogenic solutions

Limosilactobacillus reuteri produces reuterin via glycerol anaerobic fermentation. This compound has antimicrobial properties and is used for food preservation purposes. Filmogenic solutions constituted of polysaccharides and glycerol are also employed, however, reuterin synthesis in filmogenic solutions has not yet been reported. Thus, the aim of this study was to optimize the in situ reuterin production by L. reuteri in alginate- and glycerol based-filmogenic solution, evaluating the survival of reuterin-producing bacteria during fermentation. The study consisted of a completely randomized design employing two L. reuteri strains (DSM 20016 and DSM 17938). The filmogenic solutions were obtained using sodium alginate (20 g/L) and two independent variables were studied: glycerol (0–300 mmol/L) and initial biomass of L. reuteri (≅6, 7, and 8 log CFU/mL). The samples were analyzed every 24 h for 72 h of anaerobic fermentation (37 °C). Both L.reuteri strains confirmed the potential for reuterin production and were susceptible to the metabolite produced. The highest reuterin production was achieved using L. reuteri DSM 20016. The initial microbial biomass of 8 log CFU/mL and 100 mmol/L of glycerol increased the reuterin production. However, higher conversion yields from glycerol to reuterin were obtained using 50 mmol/L of substrate.

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L. reuteri strains DSM 20016 and DSM 17938 produce reuterin.

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In situ reuterin production was detected in filmogenic solution.

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Reuterin production varied with initial microbial biomass and glycerol concentration.

Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Associated Colitis: From Mechanism to Management

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), as one of the innovative types of immunotherapies, including programmed cell death-1 (PD-1), programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), and cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) inhibitors, have obtained unprecedented benefit in multiple malignancies. However, the immune response activation in the body organs could arise immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Checkpoint inhibitor colitis (CIC) is the most widely reported irAEs. However, some obscure problems, such as the mechanism concerning gut microbiota, the confusing differential diagnosis with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the optimal steroid schedule, the reintroduction of ICIs, and the controversial prognosis features, influence the deep understanding and precise diagnosis and management of CIC. Herein, we based on these problems and comprehensively summarized the relevant studies of CIC in patients with NSCLC, further discussing the future research direction of this specific pattern of irAEs.

Analysis of the intestinal microbial community altered during rotavirus infection in suckling mice

Background

Rotavirus (RV) is a principal cause of diarrhea. However, there is a limited understanding regarding alteration of the gut microbial community structure and abundance during RV infection. This study was to characterize any potential associations between RV infection and the intestinal microbiota.

Methods

Suckling mice were divided into normal group (NC) and infected group (RV) randomly. All of the suckling mice were euthanized four days post-RV infection. The virus titer was counted as fluorescent focus assay, and viral load was quantified by QPCR. Five sucking mice were randomly selected from each RV group and NC group for sample collection and pathological analysis. Mixed intestinal contents of the colon and rectum were collected from all of the suckling mice. To investigate the detailed relationship between RV infection and intestinal microbiota, the composition and distribution of intestinal microbiota from suckling mice were first analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing technology.

Results

The results of the pathological characteristics showed that vacuolar degeneration, vasodilation, hyperemia, and destruction of the intestinal epithelium were apparent in the RV group. Representative genera from Lactobacillus and Fusobacterium were enriched in the NC group, while the Enterococcus and Escherichia/Shigella genera were enriched in the RV group. Helicobacter, Alloprevotrlla, Brevundimonas, Paenibacillus, and Parabacteroides were completely undetectable in the RV group. The predicted intestinal flora metabolic function results showed that “carbohydrate metabolism” and “lipid metabolism” pathways were significantly enriched within the NC group. A significant difference has been observed in the gut microbiota composition between the two groups.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated a significant difference in the gut microbiota composition in RV-infected suckling mice as compared to the RV un-infected suckling mice group. This work may provide meaningful information regarding the bacterial genera changed during RV infection. Moreover, the changes in these bacteria may be related with the replication and pathogenesis of RV infection.

The Probiotic Properties of Lactic Acid Bacteria and Their Applications in Animal Husbandry

The intestinal tract of animals is a complex ecosystem in which nutrients, microbiota and host cells interact extensively. Probiotics can be considered as part of the natural microbiota of the gut and are involved in improving homeostasis. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) is a general term for a class of non-spore forming, gram-positive bacteria whose main product of fermented sugar is lactic acid. LAB are considered to be a type of probiotic due to their health-promoting effects on the host, and are very effective in the treatment of human and animal diseases. LAB have been widely used as a class of microbial agents in the field of livestock and poultry breeding. They are also considered to be the best substitutes for antibiotics to improve animal health. Here, we review the biological functions, probiotic characteristics and applications of LAB in livestock and poultry breeding. This review is designed to provide a theoretical base for the in-depth exploration and promotion of LAB use in animal diets.

Development of Anti-inflammatory Probiotic Limosilactobacillus reuteri EFEL6901 as Kimchi Starter: in vitro and In vivo Evidence

The use of probiotic starters can improve the sensory and health-promoting properties of fermented foods. In this study, we developed an anti-inflammatory probiotic starter, Limosilactobacillus reuteri EFEL6901, for use in kimchi fermentation. The EFEL6901 strain was safe for use in foods and was stable under human gastrointestinal conditions. In in vitro experiments, EFEL6901 cells adhered well to colonic epithelial cells and decreased nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophages. In in vivo experiments, oral administration of EFEL6901 to DSS-induced colitis mice models significantly alleviated the observed colitis symptoms, prevented body weight loss, lowered the disease activity index score, and prevented colon length shortening. Analysis of these results indicated that EFEL6901 played a probiotic role by preventing the overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, improving gut barrier function, and up-regulating the concentrations of short-chain fatty acids. In addition, EFEL6901 made a fast growth in a simulated kimchi juice and it synthesized similar amounts of metabolites in nabak-kimchi comparable to a commercial kimchi. This study demonstrates that EFEL6901 can be used as a suitable kimchi starter to promote gut health and product quality.

The adjunctive effect of probiotics to nonsurgical treatment of chronic periodontitis: A randomized controlled clinical trial

Background:

Probiotics catch more attention as adjunctive periodontal therapy. This study was conducted to assess the benefit of locally delivered Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) probiotic as an adjunctive to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of chronic periodontitis clinically and microbiologically.

Materials and Methods:

Bacterial cultures and clinical evaluation were recorded in 20 sites of chronic periodontitis in 12 patients and followed up at 3 and 6 months from the start of intervention using clinical attachment level, probing pocket depth, plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing, and microbiologically for Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) load. Patients meeting the inclusion criteria were scheduled within 1 week for two sessions of SRP. After SRP, oral hygiene measures were reassured, and sites were divided randomly into two groups 10 sites each. Group I received SRP only, while Group II received SRP and subgingival delivery of 1 ml of probiotic L. reuteri suspension at baseline and 1, 2, and 4 weeks using a blunt syringe. A periodontal pack was applied after the placement of the drug.

Results:

We found noticeable variation between the two groups in all evaluation aspects at 3 and 6-month follow-up periods except PI at 6 months in which there was no significant difference between both groups.

Conclusions:

The results proved the antimicrobial benefit of L. reuteri probiotic as a promising adjunctive therapy in improving periodontal parameters. However, further long-term studies with large sample size are needed to evaluate the extent of the added value of L. reuteri suspension.

Formononetin reshapes the gut microbiota, prevents progression of obesity and improves host metabolism

Formononetin (FMNT) is an isoflavone that has been studied for its anti-hyperglycemic and anti-diabetic effects. However, the effect of FMNT on gut dysbiosis and metabolic complications associated with western-style diet consumption has not been reported yet. This study aimed to investigate how FMNT can reshape the gut microbiota at a specific dosage and ameliorate the symptoms of obesity-related metabolic disorders in both genders. Results indicate that FMNT at 60 mg per kg bodyweight dosage can effectively control body weight, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance, leptin levels and improve HDL to LDL ratio. FMNT treatment suppressed Porphyromonadaceae (Uncultured Alistipes) and augmented maximum genera from families Lachnospiraceae and Clostridiacea, but at species level, formononetin increased Clostridium aldenense, Clostridiaceae unclassified, Eubacterium plexicaum; acetate and butyrate-producing bacteria. Moreover, formononetin regulated the expression of specific liver miRNA involved in obesity and down-regulated mRNA expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-22 and TNF-α. Additionally, FMNT maintained intestinal membrane integrity by regulating the expression of Muc-2 and occludin. Our findings indicate that FMNT could be a potential prebiotic that can effectively regulate the gut microbiota, improve host metabolism and systemic inflammation, and prevent deleterious effects of a western-style diet by elevating acetate lactate and lactate butyrate producers.

Flow cytometric analysis reveals culture condition dependent variations in phenotypic heterogeneity of Limosilactobacillus reuteri

Optimisation of cultivation conditions in the industrial production of probiotics is crucial to reach a high-quality product with retained probiotic functionality. Flow cytometry-based descriptors of bacterial morphology may be used as markers to estimate physiological fitness during cultivation, and can be applied for online monitoring to avoid suboptimal growth. In the current study, the effects of temperature, initial pH and oxygen levels on cell growth and cell size distributions of Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 were measured using multivariate flow cytometry. A pleomorphic behaviour was evident from the measurements of light scatter and pulse width distributions. A pattern of high growth yielding smaller cells and less heterogeneous populations could be observed. Analysis of pulse width distributions revealed significant morphological heterogeneities within the bacterial cell population under non-optimal growth conditions, and pointed towards low temperature, high initial pH, and high oxygen levels all being triggers for changes in morphology towards cell chain formation. However, cell size did not correlate to survivability after freeze-thaw or freeze-drying stress, indicating that it is not a key determinant for physical stress tolerance. The fact that L. reuteri morphology varies depending on cultivation conditions suggests that it can be used as marker for estimating physiological fitness and responses to its environment.

Nutritional and Health Potential of Probiotics: A Review

Several products consist of probiotics that are available in markets, and their potential uses are growing day by day, mainly because some strains of probiotics promote the health of gut microbiota, especially Furmicutes and Bacteroidetes, and may prevent certain gastrointestinal tract (GIT) problems. Some common diseases are inversely linked with the consumption of probiotics, i.e., obesity, type 2 diabetes, autism, osteoporosis, and some immunological disorders, for which the disease progression gets delayed. In addition to disease mitigating properties, these microbes also improve oral, nutritional, and intestinal health, followed by a robust defensive mechanism against particular gut pathogens, specifically by antimicrobial substances and peptides producing probiotics (AMPs). All these positive attributes of probiotics depend upon the type of microbial strains dispensed. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and Bifidobacteria are the most common microbes used, but many other microbes are available, and their use depends upon origin and health-promoting properties. This review article focuses on the most common probiotics, their health benefits, and the alleviating mechanisms against chronic kidney diseases (CKD), type 1 diabetes (T1D), type 2 diabetes (T2D), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and obesity.

Supplemental Effects of Phytase on Modulation of Mucosa-Associated Microbiota in the Jejunum and the Impacts on Nutrient Digestibility, Intestinal Morphology, and Bone Parameters in Broiler Chickens

This study aimed to determine supplemental effects of phytase on modulation of the mucosa-associated microbiota in the jejunum, intestinal morphology, nutrient digestibility, bone parameters, and growth performance of broiler chickens. Three hundred and sixty newly hatched broiler chickens (Ross 308) (44 ± 2 g BW) were randomly allotted in 6 treatments with 10 birds per cage based on a completely randomized design and fed for 27 d. The treatments consisted of one negative control (NC), diet formulated meeting the requirements suggested by Ross recommendations (2019), and without phytase supplementation. The other treatments consisted of a positive control diet (PC) formulated with 0.15% deficient Ca and P and split into 5 treatments with different phytase inclusion levels (0, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000 FTU/kg feed). Titanium dioxide (0.4%) was added to feeds as an indigestible marker to measure apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of nutrients. On d 27, 3 birds were randomly selected from each cage and euthanized to collect samples for analyzing the mucosa-associated microbiota in the jejunum, oxidative stress status, AID, and bone parameters. Data were analyzed using the proc Mixed of SAS 9.4. Phytase supplementation tended to have a quadratic effect (p = 0.078) on the overall ADG (maximum: 41 g/d at 2833 FTU/kg of feed). Supplementation of phytase at 2,000 FTU/kg increased (p < 0.05) the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and reduced (p < 0.05) Pelomonas. Moreover, it tended to reduce Helicobacter (p = 0.085), Pseudomonas (p = 0.090) Sphingomonas (p = 0.071). Phytase supplementation increased (p < 0.05) the villus height and the AID of CP; and tended to increase (p = 0.086) the AID of P. Phytase supplementation increased (p < 0.05) breaking strength and P content in the tibia. In conclusion, phytase supplementation showed potential benefits on the modulation of the mucosa-associated microbiota in the jejunum by tending to reduce harmful bacteria (Pelomonas, Helicobacter, and Pseudomonas) and increase beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus). In addition, it showed positive effects increasing apparent ileal digestibility of CP and P, enhancing intestinal morphology (villus height), and improving the bone parameters (bone breaking strength, ash, and P content). Phytase supplementation at a range of 38 to 59 FTU/d or 600 to 950 FTU/kg of feed provided the most benefits related to nutrient digestibility.

Exploiting the Metabolism of the Gut Microbiome as a Vehicle for Targeted Drug Delivery to the Colon

The prevalence of colon-associated diseases has increased significantly over the past several decades, as evidenced by accumulated literature on conditions such as Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, colorectal cancer, and ulcerative colitis. Developing therapeutics for these diseases is challenging due to physiological barriers of the colon, systemic side effects, and the intestinal environment. Therefore, in a search for novel methods to overcome some of these problems, researchers discovered that microbial metabolism by gut microbiotia offers a potential method for targeted drug delivery This overview highlights several drug delivery systems used to modulate the microbiota and improve colon-targeted drug delivery. This technology will be important in developing a new generation of therapies which harness the metabolism of the human gut microflora.

Effects of red ginseng on gut, microbiota, and brain in a mouse model of post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder, is characterized by chronic abdominal pain and bowel habit changes. Although diverse complicated etiologies are involved in its pathogenesis, a dysregulated gut–brain axis may be an important factor. Red ginseng (RG), a traditional herbal medicine, is proven to have anti-inflammatory effects and improve brain function; however, these effects have not been investigated in IBS.

Methods

Three-day intracolonic zymosan injections were used to induce post-infectious human IBS-like symptoms in mice. The animals were randomized to receive either phosphate-buffered saline (CG) or RG (30/100/300 mg/kg) for 10 days. Amitriptyline and sulfasalazine were used as positive controls. Macroscopic scoring was performed on day 4. Visceral pain and anxiety-like behaviors were assessed by colorectal distension and elevated plus maze and open field tests, respectively, on day 10. Next-generation sequencing of gut microbiota was performed, and biomarkers involved in gut–brain axis responses were analyzed.

Results

Compared to CG, RG significantly decreased the macroscopic score, frequency of visceral pain, and anxiety-like behavior in the IBS mice. These effects were comparable to those after sulfasalazine and amitriptyline treatments. Moreover, RG significantly increased the proliferation of beneficial microbes, including Lactobacillus johnsonii, Lactobacillus reuteri, and Parabacteroides goldsteinii. RG significantly suppressed expression of IL-1β and c-fos in the gut and prefrontal cortex, respectively. Further, it restored the plasma levels of corticosterone to within the normal range, accompanied by an increase in adrenocorticotropic hormone.

Conclusion

RG may be a potential therapeutic option for the management of human IBS.

A Comparison of Production Performance, Egg Quality, and Cecal Microbiota in Laying Hens Receiving Graded Levels of Vitamin B12

The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of fortified diets with standard vs. high levels of vitamin B₁₂ on cecal microbiota composition, production performance, and eggshell quality of laying hens. Dietary treatments consisted of a basal diet with no supplementation of vitamin B₁₂ or supplemented with 25, 100, and 400 μg/kg vitamin B₁₂, respectively. A total of 432 laying hens were randomly assigned to four treatments with six replicates per treatment. No significant effect of dietary treatments on the production performance of hens was detected. The shell thickness of eggs from hens fed diet supplemented with 100 μg/kg of vitamin B₁₂ was higher (P < 0.01) than that of eggs from hens fed control diet or supplemented with 25 μg/kg vitamin B₁₂. The shell percentage of eggs from hens fed diet supplemented with 400 μg/kg of vitamin B₁₂ was higher (P < 0.01) than that of eggs from hens fed other treatment diets. Dietary vitamin B₁₂ did not modulate diversity of the cecal microbiota of the layers. At genus level, the cecal content from layers fed diet with supplemental level of 100 or 400 μg/kg of vitamin B₁₂ had higher (P < 0.01) abundance of Faecalibacterium and lower (P < 0.05) abundance of Acinetobacter compared with the cecal content from layers fed other two diets. The abundance of Lactobacillus in the cecal samples from layers fed 100 μg/kg of supplemental level of vitamin B₁₂ was higher (P < 0.05) than that from layers fed other three diets. The abundance of Butyricicoccus was higher (P < 0.05), while Bilophila was lower (P < 0.05) in the cecal content of layers fed 400 μg/kg of vitamin B₁₂ diet compared with those from layers fed other three diets. The results of PICRUSt analysis indicated that 10 predicted metabolic functions of the cecal microbial communities were positively correlated to dietary vitamin B₁₂ level. Overall, dietary supplementation of 100 or 400 μg/kg of vitamin B₁₂ had equivalent effects and caused the significant change in composition and metabolic functions of cecal microorganisms, which could positively impact eggshell quality, metabolism, and gut health of laying hens.

WHOLE-meal ancient wheat-based diet: Effect on metabolic parameters and microbiota

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Ancient wheat varieties are considered to be healthier than modern ones, but the data are not univocal. We investigated changes in hematochemical parameters and evaluated microbiota data before and after a set period on a diet containing a whole-meal ancient wheat mix.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

29 cloistered nuns were recruited. The study comprised two consecutive 30-day periods; during the first one (T1), the nuns received wheat-based foods produced with refined "modern" flour ("Simeto"); during the second one (T2) received wheat-based foods produced with an unrefined flour mix composed of "ancient" cultivars. At entry to the study (T0) and at the end of T1 and T2 hematochemical parameters and fecal microbiota and metabolome were evaluated.

RESULTS

At the end of T2, there was a significant reduction in serum iron, ferritin, creatinine, sodium, potassium, magnesium, total cholesterol, LDL- and HDL-cholesterol and folic acid. Furthermore, increased the abundance of cultivable enterococci, lactic acid bacteria and total anaerobes. The ability of the gut microbiome to metabolize carbohydrates increased after the period of diet containing ancient grain products. Several volatile organic compounds increased after the one month on the diet enriched with ancient grain products.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data showed the beneficial effects deriving from a diet including ancient whole-meal/unrefined wheat flours.