Gut Microbiota: From Microorganisms to Metabolic Organ Influencing Obesity

Simiao Wan attenuates high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia in mice by modulating the gut microbiota-bile acid axis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hyperlipidemia is a lipid metabolism disorder and a risk factor for obesity, diabetes, and coronary heart disease. It occurs mostly in the old adults; however, its incidence rate is increasing annually and there is a trend towards younger adults. Current clinical drugs for treating hyperlipidemia have multiple side effects. Therefore, it is necessary to develop safe and effective drugs from natural products to prevent and treat hyperlipidemia. Simiao Wan (SMW) is a classic Chinese medicine prescription first recorded in the Cheng Fang Bian Du of the Qing Dynasty. Studies have shown that SMW has excellent efficacy in metabolic diseases, which can effectively improve hyperlipidemia combined with other metabolic diseases. However, its underlying mechanism in hyperlipidemia treatment is yet to be clarified.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the hypolipidemic effect of SMW on hyperlipidemic mice and explore whether the gut microbiota-bile acid (BA) axis is the potential mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A hyperlipidemic mouse model was established using a high-fat diet (HFD), and the hypolipidemic effect of SMW was detected in vivo. We performed 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing and BA metabolism analysis to explore the hypolipidemic mechanisms of SMW. Western blotting was conducted to detect the expression of proteins involved in the gut microbiota-bile acid axis to determine the potential lipid-lowering pathway.

RESULTS

Excessive obesity in hyperlipidemic mice was alleviated after 8 weeks of SMW treatment. The total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels decreased significantly, whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels increased. SMW also reduced hepatic lipid and inguinal white adipose tissue accumulation in HFD-induced hyperlipidemic mice. Furthermore, intestinal bile saline hydrolase (BSH) level, associated with BA excretion, decreased. Meanwhile, SMW decreased the abundance of BSH-enriched microbes in hyperlipidemic mice. SMW increased the intestinal conjugated-BAs contents in hyperlipidemic mice, especially tauro-β-muricholic acid and tauro-ursodeoxycholic acid, which are ileac farnesoid X receptor (FXR) antagonists. Inhibited intestinal FXR signaling with SMW was accompanied by a decreased expression of intestinal fibroblast growth factor 15 and the activation of hepatic FXR, which promoted hepatic cholesterol conversion to BA.

CONCLUSION

SMW indirectly attenuated HFD-induced hyperlipidemia in mice by regulating the gut microbiota-BA axis. Our results provide a pharmacological basis for SMW treating hyperlipidemia and suggest a new idea for developing lipid-lowering drugs.

Unlocking the Potential of Food Waste: A Review of Multifunctional Pectins

This review comprehensively explores the multifunctional applications of pectins derived from food waste and by-products, emphasizing their role as versatile biomaterials in the medical-related sectors. Pectins, known for their polyelectrolytic nature and ability to form hydrogels, influence the chemical composition, sensory properties, and overall acceptability of food and pharmaceutical products. The study presents an in-depth analysis of molecular parameters and structural features of pectins, such as the degree of esterification (DE), monosaccharide composition, galacturonic acid (GalA) content, and relative amounts of homogalacturonan (HG) and rhamnogalacturonan I (RG-I), which are critical for their technofunctional properties and biological activity. Emphasis is placed on pectins obtained from various waste sources, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and nuts. The review also highlights the importance of structure-function relationships, especially with respect to the interfacial properties and rheological behavior of pectin solutions and gels. Biological applications, including antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial activities, are also discussed, positioning pectins as promising biomaterials for various functional and therapeutic applications. Recalled pectins can also support the growth of probiotic bacteria, thus increasing the health benefits of the final product. This detailed review highlights the potential of using pectins from food waste to develop advanced and sustainable biopolymer-based products.

2', 3', 5'-tri-O-acetyl-N6-(3-hydroxyphenyl) adenosine alleviates diet-induced hyperlipidemia by modulating intestinal gene expression profiles and metabolic pathway

There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that the composition of intestinal flora plays a significant role in regulating lipid metabolism. 2', 3', 5'-tri-O-acetyl-N6-(3-hydroxyphenyl) adenosine (IMMH007) is a new candidate compound for regulating blood cholesterol and other lipids. In this study, we conducted metagenomic and metabolomic analyses on samples from high-fat diet-fed (HFD) hamsters treated with IMMH007. Our findings revealed that IMM-H007 reversed the imbalance of gut microbiota caused by a high-fat diet. Additionally, it activated adiponectin receptor and pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis pathway-related genes, which are known to regulate lipid and glucose metabolism. Furthermore, IMM-H007 promotes cholesterol metabolism by reducing the abundance of genes and species associated with 7α-dehydroxylation and bile salt hydrolase (BSH). Metabolomics and pharmacological studies have shown that IMM-H007 effectively improved glucose and lipid metabolism disorders caused by HFD, reduced the aggregation of secondary bile acids (SBAs), significantly increased the content of hyodeoxycholic acid (HDCA), and also activated the expression of VDR in the small intestine. As a result, there was a reduction in the leakage of diamine oxidase (DAO) into the bloodstream in hamsters, accompanied by an upregulation of ZO-1 expression in the small intestine. The results suggested that IMM-H007 regulated glucose and lipid metabolism, promoted cholesterol metabolism through activating the expression of VDR, inhibiting inflammatory and improving the permeability of the intestinal barrier. Thus, our study provides new understanding of how IMM-H007 interacts with intestinal function, microbiota, and relevant targets, shedding light on its mechanism of action.

Exploring causal effects of gut microbiota and metabolites on body fat percentage using two-sample Mendelian randomization

AIM

The relationship between the gut microbiota, metabolites and body fat percentage (BFP) remains unexplored. We systematically assessed the causal relationships between gut microbiota, metabolites and BFP using Mendelian randomization analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with gut microbiota, blood metabolites and BFP were screened via a genome-wide association study enrolling individuals of European descent. Summary data from genome-wide association studies were extracted from the MiBioGen consortium and the UK Biobank. The inverse variance-weighted model was the primary method used to estimate these causal relationships. Sensitivity analyses were performed using pleiotropy, Mendelian randomization-Egger regression, heterogeneity tests and leave-one-out tests.

RESULTS

In the aspect of phyla, classes, orders, families and genera, we observed that o_Bifidobacteriales [β = -0.05; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.07 to -0.03; false discovery rate (FDR) = 2.76 × 10-3], f_Bifidobacteriaceae (β = -0.05; 95% CI: -0.07 to -0.07; FDR = 2.76 × 10-3), p_Actinobacteria (β = -0.06; 95% CI: -0.09 to -0.03; FDR = 6.36 × 10-3), c_Actinobacteria (β = -0.05; 95% CI: -0.08 to -0.02; FDR = 1.06 × 10-2), g_Bifidobacterium (β = -0.05; 95% CI: -0.07 to -0.02; FDR = 1.85 × 10-2), g_Ruminiclostridium9 (β = -0.03; 95% CI: -0.06 to -0.01; FDR = 4.81 × 10-2) were negatively associated with BFP. G_Olsenella (β = 0.02; 95% CI: 0.01-0.03; FDR = 2.16 × 10-2) was positively associated with BFP. Among the gut microbiotas, f_Bifidobacteriales, o_Bifidobacteriales, c_Actinobacteria and p_Actinobacteria were shown to be significantly associated with BFP in the validated dataset. In the aspect of metabolites, we only observed that valine (β = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.5-1.04; FDR = 8.65 × 10-6) was associated with BFP.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple gut microbiota and metabolites were strongly associated with an increased BFP. Further studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this putative causality. In addition, BFP, a key indicator of obesity, suggests that obesity-related interventions can be developed from gut microbiota and metabolite perspectives.

Alterations in the gut microbiota community are associated with childhood obesity and precocious puberty

OBJECTIVE

To explore the distribution and differences in the intestinal microbiota in girls with obesity-related precocious puberty and the relationship between intestinal microbiota and obesity-related precocious puberty.

METHODS

16 S rRNA gene amplicons from fecal samples from girls with precocious puberty and obesity-complicated precocious puberty and healthy children were sequenced to define microbial taxa.

RESULTS

The α- and β-diversity indices of the microbiome significantly differed among the three groups. At the phylum level, the proportions of Firmicutes, Actinobacteriota, Bacteroidota, Bacteria, Campylobacterota, and Acidobacteriota were different. At the genus level, there were differences in Bifidobacterium, Bacteroides, Anaerostipes, Fusicatenibacter, Klebsiella, Lachnospiraceae, ErysipelotrichaceaeUCG-003, Prevotella9, Ruminococcus gnavus group, and Lachnoclostridium. Additionally, Bifidobacterium, Anaerostipes, Bacteroides, Candidatus Microthrix, Eubacterium hallii group, Klebsiella, and Erysipelotrichaceae UCG-003 were identified as bacterial biomarkers by LEfSe. Furthermore, Sellimonas, Intestinibacter, Anaerostipes, Ruminococcus gnavus group, and Oscillibacter were identified as the differential biomarkers by random forest. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the biomarkers with high predictive value for obesity-related precocious puberty. Spearman correlation analysis confirmed that Anaerostipes levels were negatively correlated with body weight, body mass index (BMI), bone age, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and estradiol.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a significant correlation between obesity-associated precocious puberty and gut microbiota, especially the functional characteristics of the microbiome and its interactions, which can provide a theoretical basis for the clinical intervention of obesity and precocious puberty through the microbiome.

Rapid Analysis of Colonic Metabolomics in High-Fat Diet Mice by Extraction Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (EESI-MS)

Propolis exhibits significant anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antiobesity properties in both mouse models and clinical applications. However, the underlying metabolic mechanisms remain poorly understood. Traditional metabolomic methods that rely on chromatographic separation require complex preprocessing steps and extended detection periods. In this study, we employed extraction electrospray ionization mass spectrometry combined with multivariate analysis to directly profile metabolites in the colon tissue of mice. Our findings demonstrate the efficacy of ethanol extract of propolis (EEP) in mitigating weight gain, reducing inflammatory cytokines, and improving insulin resistance induced by a high-fat diet. Additionally, EEP enhanced glucose tolerance. Through collision-induced dissociation experiments, we identified 26 metabolites, with 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, protocatechuic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, hippuric acid, histidine, and tryptophan emerging as potential biomarkers. Notably, tryptophan exhibited the highest content at 8.25 mg/g. Our research facilitates rapid profiling of colon metabolites, underscoring its significant potential for broader applications in animal metabolomic studies.

Multi-omics analysis of gut microbiota and metabolites reveals contrasting profiles in domestic pigs and wild boars across urban environments

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in host health and metabolism. This study explores the differences in gut microbiota and metabolites between domestic pigs (DP) and wild boars (WB) in urban environments. We analyzed gut microbial composition, metabolic profiles, virome composition, antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), and human pathogenic bacteria (HPB) in both DP and WB. Our results revealed that DP exhibited a higher Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and were enriched in bacterial genera associated with domestication and modern feeding practices. Metabolomic analysis showed distinct profiles, with WB significantly enriched in the Pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis pathway, highlighting dietary and environmental influences on host metabolism. Additionally, DP had a distinct gut virome composition, particularly enriched in lytic phages of the Chaseviridae family. ARG analysis indicated a higher abundance of tetracycline resistance genes in DP, likely due to antibiotic use in pig farms. Furthermore, variations in HPB composition underscored potential health risks associated with contact with pig feces. These findings provide valuable insights into the microbial ecology of domestic pigs and wild boars, emphasizing the importance of these comparisons in identifying zoonotic pathogen transmission pathways and managing antibiotic resistance. Continued research in this area is essential for developing effective strategies to mitigate public health risks and promote sustainable livestock management practices.

Resveratrol ameliorates DSS-induced ulcerative colitis by acting on mouse gut microbiota

OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a multi-faceted, recurrent immune disorder caused by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). The intestinal microbiota has multiple functions in the host, so UC requires long-term potent medication. The effect of resveratrol (RSV) has seldom been reported, and this study researched that. Herein, the effect of RSV and Grape seed oil that anti-inflammatory ability in experimental mice was explored, also why RSV altered Gut Microbiota has been researched.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experiment, the effects of experimental drugs on colon length in mice with DSS-induced colitis were compared. H&E Staining was performed on serial sections of colon tissues and histological scores were determined for all groups. The expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the colon tissue of mice was detected by immunohistochemical staining. In the end, the α-diversity index, sobs index, and rarefaction curve of the cecal and colon microbiota of different groups of mice were measured. Bray-Curtis-based Venn diagram of PCoA (principal coordinate analysis) and OTUs distribution in mouse gut microbiota were obtained.

RESULTS

The results showed that the use of 40 mg/kg RSV (high dose) significantly reduced the severity of UC. The use of 10 mg/kg RSV (low dose) significantly reduced the effect of shortened colon length in DSS mice. Compared with the DSS-treated group, the levels of COX-2 and TNF-α in the colon tissues of RSV + DSS-treated mice were significantly decreased. According to this experiment, 19 mouse gut microbiota species had a relative abundance greater than 0.1%, with Beerella, Bacteroides, Helicobacter, Oscillator, and cecum pylori being more abundant in the colon than in the colon. A higher relative abundance of Lachnospira NK4A136 was observed in DSS and RSV groups compared with the control group, whereas the opposite was observed for Alloprevotella. This proves that resveratrol increases the uniformity and diversity of gut microbes to a certain extent, and has a protective effect on the gut.

Phyllanthus emblica Fruit Improves Obesity by Reducing Appetite and Enhancing Mucosal Homeostasis via the Gut Microbiota-Brain-Liver Axis in HFD-Induced Leptin-Resistant Rats

The impact of leptin resistance on intestinal mucosal barrier integrity, appetite regulation, and hepatic lipid metabolism through the microbiota-gut-brain-liver axis has yet to be determined. Water extract of Phyllanthus emblica L. fruit (WEPE) and its bioactive compound gallic acid (GA) effectively alleviated methylglyoxal (MG)-triggered leptin resistance in vitro. Therefore, this study investigated how WEPE and GA intervention relieve leptin resistance-associated dysfunction in the intestinal mucosa, appetite, and lipid accumulation through the microbiota-gut-brain-liver axis in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rats. The results showed that WEPE and GA significantly reduced tissues (jejunum, brain, and liver) MG-evoked leptin resistance, malondialdehyde (MDA), proinflammatory cytokines, SOCS3, orexigenic neuropeptides, and lipid accumulation through increasing leptin receptor, tight junction proteins, antimicrobial peptides, anorexigenic neuropeptides, excretion of fecal triglyceride (TG), and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) via a positive correlation with the Allobaculum and Bifidobacterium microbiota. These novel findings suggest that WEPE holds the potential as a functional food ingredient for alleviating obesity and its complications.

Postbiotic potential of Bacillus velezensis KMU01 cell-free supernatant for the alleviation of obesity in mice

Attention toward the preventive effects of postbiotics on metabolic diseases has increased because of greater stability and safety over probiotics. However, studies regarding the bioactive effects of postbiotics, especially from probiotic Bacillus strains, are relatively limited. The anti-obesity effects of the cell-free culture supernatant of Bacillus velezensis KMU01 (CFS-B.vele) were evaluated using high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced mice. HFD-induced mice (n = 8 per group) received equal volumes of (1) CFS-B.vele (114 mg/kg) in PBS, (2) Xenical in PBS, or (3) PBS alone by oral gavage daily for 13 weeks. The results demonstrated that CFS-B.vele changed the gut microbiota and showed anti-obesity effects in HFD-induced obese mice. The elevated Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio induced by HFD was decreased in the CFS-B.vele group compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). The CFS-B.vele intervention led to the enrichment of SCFA-producers, such as Roseburia and Eubacterium, in the cecum, suggesting their potential involvement in the amelioration of obesity. Due to these changes, the various obesity-related biomarkers (body weight, fat in tissue, white adipose tissue weight and size, serum LDL-cholesterol level, hepatic lipid accumulation, and adipogenesis/lipogenesis-related gene/protein expression) were improved. Our findings suggest that CFS-B.vele has potential as a novel anti-obesity agent through modulation of the gut microbiota.

Decoding the role of the gut microbiome in gut-brain axis, stress-resilience, or stress-susceptibility: A review

Increased exposure to stress is associated with stress-related disorders, including depression, anxiety, and neurodegenerative conditions. However, susceptibility to stress is not seen in every individual exposed to stress, and many of them exhibit resilience. Thus, developing resilience to stress could be a big breakthrough in stress-related disorders, with the potential to replace or act as an alternative to the available therapies. In this article, we have focused on the recent advancements in gut microbiome research and the potential role of the gut-brain axis (GBA) in developing resilience or susceptibility to stress. There might be a complex interaction between the autonomic nervous system (ANS), immune system, endocrine system, microbial metabolites, and bioactive lipids like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), neurotransmitters, and their metabolites that regulates the communication between the gut microbiota and the brain. High fiber intake, prebiotics, probiotics, plant supplements, and fecal microbiome transplant (FMT) could be beneficial against gut dysbiosis-associated brain disorders. These could promote the growth of SCFA-producing bacteria, thereby enhancing the gut barrier and reducing the gut inflammatory response, increase the expression of the claudin-2 protein associated with the gut barrier, and maintain the blood-brain barrier integrity by promoting the expression of tight junction proteins such as claudin-5. Their neuroprotective effects might also be related to enhancing the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1). Further investigations are needed in the field of the gut microbiome for the elucidation of the mechanisms by which gut dysbiosis contributes to the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders.

Total Sn-2 Palmitic Triacylglycerols and the Ratio of OPL to OPO in Human Milk Fat Substitute Modulated Bile Acid Metabolism and Intestinal Microbiota Composition in Rats

In this study, the impact of sn-2 palmitic triacyclglycerols (TAGs) in combination with their ratio of two major TAGs (1-oleoyl-2-palmitoyl-3-linoleoylglycerol (OPL) to 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol (OPO)) in human milk fat substitute (HMFS) on bile acid (BA) metabolism and intestinal microbiota composition was investigated in newly-weaned Sprague-Dawley rats after four weeks of high-fat feeding. Compared to those of control group rats, HMFS-fed rats had significantly increased contents of six hepatic primary BAs (CDCA, αMCA, βMCA, TCDCA, TαMCA and TβMCA), four ileal primary BAs (UDCA, TCA, TCDCA and TUDCA) and three secondary BAs (DCA, LCA and ωMCA), especially for the HMFS with the highest sn-2 palmitic acid TAGs of 57.9% and OPL to OPO ratio of 1.4. Meanwhile, the inhibition of ileal FXR-FGF15 and activation of TGR5-GLP-1 signaling pathways in HMFS-fed rats were accompanied by the increased levels of enzymes involved in BA synthesis (CYP7A1, CYP27A1 and CYP7B1) in the liver and two key thermogenic proteins (PGC1α and UCP1) in perirenal adipose tissue, respectively. Moreover, increasing sn-2 palmitic TAGs and OPL to OPO ratio in HMFS also altered the microbiota composition both on the phylum and genus level in rats, predominantly microbes associated with bile-salt hydrolase activity, short-chain fatty acid production and reduced obesity risk, which suggested a beneficial effect on host microbial ecosystem. These observations provided important nutritional evidence for developing new HMFS products for infants.

Uncovering the effects of Giardia duodenalis on the balance of DNA viruses and bacteria in children's gut microbiota

The neglected parasitosis giardiasis is one of the most common intestinal infections worldwide, affecting mainly infants and young children. Giardia duodenalis may disturb the local microbiome, leading to intestinal ecosystem disorders, and altering different processes in the host, such as the immune response. Nevertheless, the alterations promoted by G. duodenalis on the human gut microbiome have not been thoroughly investigated. Here, we characterized the gut microbiota of G. duodenalis-infected children and determine the main alterations promoted by the parasite. To do so, fecal samples of 26 infected and four uninfected children aged 2 to 6 years old were processed for High Efficiency Microarray analysis, in order to describe their bacterial and viral profiles. Then, we quantified the total bacterial population by qPCR and assessed fecal calprotectin levels, which are closely related with gut inflammation. A total of 286 bacteria's species and 17 viruses' strains were identified. Our results revealed no statistically significant differences between G. duodenalis positive and negative groups in the taxa's phyla and families. However, bacterial species diversity was increased in children infected with G. duodenalis (p < 0.05), while the total number of bacteria was decreased (p < 0.05). Considering the virome analysis, 17 different strains were identified, 88% being bacteriophages. The correlation analysis revealed an important disruption in the balance of DNA virus and bacteria within the intestinal microbiota of Giardia-positive children. Our findings constitute the first description of the gut virome of Giardia-infected children and suggest that G. duodenalis infection exerts a modulatory effect on the gut microbiome, promoting local inflammation and altering the equilibrium of the parasite-microbiota-host triad. This highlights the importance of considering polymicrobial associations and understanding the broader context of giardiasis. Overall, our study provides new insights into the complex interactions between intestinal parasites and the microbiota, which may have implications for the development of novel therapeutic interventions in the future.

Linking Clinical Blood Metabogram and Gut Microbiota

Recently, a clinical blood metabogram was developed as a fast, low-cost and reproducible test that allows the implementation of metabolomics in clinical practice. The components of the metabogram are functionally related groups of blood metabolites associated with humoral regulation, the metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates and amines, lipid intake into the organism, and liver function, thereby providing clinically relevant information. It is known that the gut microbiota affects the blood metabolome, and the components of the blood metabolome may affect the composition of the gut microbiota. Therefore, before using the metabogram in the clinic, the link between the metabogram components and the level of gut microorganisms should be established. For this purpose, the metabogram and microbiota data were obtained in this work for the same individuals. Metabograms of blood plasma were obtained by direct mass spectrometry of blood plasma, and the gut microbiome was determined by a culture-based method and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This study involved healthy volunteers and individuals with varying degrees of deviation in body weight (n = 44). A correlation analysis determined which metabogram components are linked to which gut microorganisms and the strength of this link. Moreover, diagnostic parameters (sensitivity, specificity and accuracy) confirmed the capacity of metabogram components to be used for diagnosing gut microbiota alterations. Therefore, the obtained results allow the use of the metabogram in a clinical setting, taking into account its relationship with gut microbiota.

Unveiling the hidden world of gut health: Exploring cutting-edge research through visualizing randomized controlled trials on the gut microbiota

BACKGROUND

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in gastrointestinal and overall health. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) play a crucial role in advancing our knowledge and evaluating the efficacy of therapeutic interventions targeting the gut microbiota.

AIM

To conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the literature on RCTs involving the gut microbiota.

METHODS

Using bibliometric tools, a descriptive cross-sectional investigation was conducted on scholarly publications concentrated on RCTs related to gut microbiota, spanning the years 2003 to 2022. The study used VOSviewer version 1.6.9 to examine collaboration networks between different countries and evaluate the frequently employed terms in the titles and abstracts of the retrieved publications. The primary objective of this analysis was to identify key research areas and focal points associated with RCTs involving the gut microbiota.

RESULTS

A total of 1061 relevant articles were identified from the 24758 research articles published between 2003 and 2022. The number of publications showed a notable increase over time, with a positive correlation (R2 = 0.978, P < 0.001). China (n = 276, 26.01%), the United States (n = 254, 23.94%), and the United Kingdom (n = 97, 9.14%) were the leading contributing countries. Københavns Universitet (n = 38, 3.58%) and Dankook University (n = 35, 3.30%) were the top active institutions. The co-occurrence analysis shows current gut microbiota research trends and important topics, such as obesity interventions targeting the gut microbiota, the efficacy and safety of fecal microbiota transplantation, and the effects of dietary interventions on humans.

CONCLUSION

The study highlights the rapid growth and importance of research on RCTs that involve the gut microbiota. This study provides valuable insight into research trends, identifies key players, and outlines potential future directions in this field. Additionally, the co-occurrence analysis identified important topics that play a critical role in the advancement of science and provided insights into future research directions in this field.

Microbiome analysis of maternal and neonatal microbial communities associated with the different delivery modes based on 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing

OBJECTIVE

With the rising number of cases of non-vaginal delivery worldwide, scientists have been concerned about the influence of the different delivery modes on maternal and neonatal microbiomes. Although the birth rate trend is decreasing rapidly in Taiwan, more than 30 percent of newborns are delivered by caesarean section every year. However, it remains unclear whether the different delivery modes could have a certain impact on the postpartum maternal microbiome and whether it affects the mother-to-newborn vertical transmission of bacteria at birth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To address this, we recruited 30 mother-newborn pairs to participate in this study, including 23 pairs of vaginal delivery (VD) and seven pairs of caesarean section (CS). We here investigate the development of the maternal prenatal and postnatal microbiomes across multiple body habitats. Moreover, we also explore the early acquisition of neonatal gut microbiome through a vertical multi-body site microbiome analysis.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The results indicate that no matter the delivery mode, it only slightly affects the maternal microbiome in multiple body habitats from pregnancy to postpartum. On the other hand, about 95% of species in the meconium microbiome were derived from one of the maternal body habitats; notably, the infants born by caesarean section acquire bacterial communities resembling their mother's oral microbiome. Consequently, the delivery modes play a crucial role in the initial colonization of the neonatal gut microbiome, potentially impacting children's health and development.

Resistance to Diet Induced Visceral Fat Accumulation in C57BL/6NTac Mice Is Associated with an Enriched Lactococcus in the Gut Microbiota and the Phenotype of Immune B Cells in Intestine and Adipose Tissue

Humans and rodents exhibit a divergent obesity phenotype where not all individuals exposed to a high calorie diet become obese. We hypothesized that in C57BL/6NTac mice, despite a shared genetic background and diet, variations in individual gut microbiota function, immune cell phenotype in the intestine and adipose determine predisposition to obesity. From a larger colony fed a high-fat (HF) diet (60% fat), we obtained twenty-four 18-22-week-old C57BL/6NTac mice. Twelve had responded to the diet, had higher body weight and were termed obese prone (OP). The other 12 had retained a lean frame and were termed obese resistant (OR). We singly housed them for three weeks, monitored food intake and determined insulin resistance, fat accumulation, and small intestinal and fecal gut microbial community membership and structure. From the lamina propria and adipose tissue, we determined the population of total and specific subsets of T and B cells. The OP mice with higher fat accumulation and insulin resistance harbored microbial communities with enhanced capacity for processing dietary sugars, lower alpha diversity, greater abundance of Lactobacilli and low abundance of Clostridia and Desulfobacterota. The OR with less fat accumulation retained insulin sensitivity and harbored microbial communities with enhanced capacity for processing and synthesizing amino acids and higher diversity and greater abundance of Lactococcus, Desulfobacterota and class Clostridia. The B cell phenotype in the lamina propria and mesenteric adipose tissue of OR mice was characterized by a higher population of IgA+ cells and B1b IgM+ cells, respectively, compared to the OP. We conclude that variable responses to the HF diet are associated with the function of individuals' gut microbiota and immune responses in the lamina propria and adipose tissue.

White adipose tissue undergoes browning during preweaning period in association with microbiota formation in mice

Beige adipocytes are transiently induced during early postnatal period in mice. Previous studies have suggested that, unlike in adults, the induction is independent of the sympathetic nerve activity; however, the mechanism is yet unknown. Here, we showed that beige adipocytes are induced during the preweaning period in association with the formation of microbiota in mice. Alteration of gut microbiota composition in preweaning mice by maternal treatment with antibiotics or high-fat diet feeding substantially suppressed WAT browning. The suppression was also found in pups transplanted cecal microbiota from pups of high-fat diet-fed dams. These treatments reduced the hepatic expression of genes involved in bile acid synthesis and the serum bile acids level. The abundance of Porphyromonadaceae and Ruminococcaceae in microbiota showed a positive and negative correlation with the induction of beige adipocytes, respectively. This finding may provide comprehensive understanding of the association between gut microbiota and adipose tissue development in the neonatal period.

The benefits of edible mushroom polysaccharides for health and their influence on gut microbiota: a review

The gut microbiome is a complex biological community that deeply affects various aspects of human health, including dietary intake, disease progression, drug metabolism, and immune system regulation. Edible mushroom polysaccharides (EMPs) are bioactive fibers derived from mushrooms that possess a range of beneficial properties, including anti-tumor, antioxidant, antiviral, hypoglycemic, and immunomodulatory effects. Studies have demonstrated that EMPs are resistant to human digestive enzymes and serve as a crucial source of energy for the gut microbiome, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. EMPs also positively impact human health by modulating the composition of the gut microbiome. This review discusses the extraction and purification processes of EMPs, their potential to improve health conditions by regulating the composition of the gut microbiome, and their application prospects. Furthermore, this paper provides valuable guidance and recommendations for future studies on EMPs consumption in disease management.

Gut Microbiota and Critical Metabolites: Potential Target in Preventing Gestational Diabetes Mellitus?

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is an intractable issue that negatively impacts the quality of pregnancy. The incidence of GDM is on the rise, becoming a major health burden for both mothers and children. However, the specific etiology and pathophysiology of GDM remain unknown. Recently, the importance of gut microbiota and related metabolic molecules has gained prominence. Studies have indicated that women with GDM have significantly distinct gut microbiota and gut metabolites than healthy pregnant women. Given that the metabolic pathways of gut flora and related metabolites have a substantial impact on inflammation, insulin signaling, glucose, and lipid metabolism, and so on, gut microbiota or its metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, may play a significant role in both pathogenesis and progression of GDM. Whereas the role of intestinal flora during pregnancy is still in its infancy, this review aims to summarize the effects and mechanisms of gut microbiota and related metabolic molecules involved in GDM, thus providing potential intervention targets.

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for Weight and Glycemic Control of Obesity as Well as the Associated Metabolic Diseases: Meta-Analysis and Comprehensive Assessment

Objectives: An analysis of the weight and blood glucose management associated with fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as well as metabolic diseases associated with FMT was conducted by the authors in order to provide clinical recommendations regarding the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for papers that were published between the creation of the database and October 2022. We reviewed research that investigated how FMT affected weight and glycemic management in cases of obesity and metabolic conditions that are related to obesity. Studies that were published more than once, lacked the entire text, included insufficient information, or were impossible to extract data from were excluded. Additionally, case reports, reviews, and systematic reviews were excluded from the analysis. In order to analyze the data, STATA 15.1 was used. Outcomes: When we combined all of our findings, we discovered that pooled outcomes showed that weight levels (WMD equals -4.77, 95%CI: -7.40~-2.14), BMI levels (WMD equals -1.59, 95%CI: -2.21~-0.97), HOMA-IR (WMD equals -0.79, 95%CI: -1.57~-0.00), and HbA1c (WMD equals -0.65, 95%CI: -0.75~-0.55) after FMT treatment were significantly lower than before treatment. However, FMT treatment may have no effect on glucose and insulin levels in obese patients at fasting and related metabolic diseases. Additionally, subgroup analysis outcomes found that FMT significantly reduced fasting blood glucose in people with diabetes. Conclusions: As a weight loss and glycemic control therapy, FMT helps to prevent and treat metabolic problems linked to obesity, and is a viable alternative to bariatric surgery for patients who do not wish to undergo the procedure.

Exploring the Impact of the Gut Microbiome on Obesity and Weight Loss: A Review Article

The global obesity pandemic has prompted efforts to search for novel intervention options, including maximizing the health benefits of certain gut microbes and their metabolic byproducts. Our increased understanding of gut microbiota can potentially lead to revolutionary advancements in weight management and general well-being. We studied the association between gut microbiota and obesity, as well as the possible benefits of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics in the prevention and management of obesity in this review. We observed a relationship between the metabolism of nutrients, energy consumption, and gut flora. Numerous mechanisms, including the synthesis of short-chain fatty acids, hormone stimulation, and persistent low-grade inflammation, have been postulated to explain the role of gut bacteria in the etiology of obesity. It has been discovered that the diversity and composition of the intestinal microbiome vary in response to various forms of obesity therapy, which raises concerns about the potential impact of these changes on weight loss. According to research, probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics may alter the release of hormones, neurotransmitters, and inflammatory factors, thereby diminishing the stimuli of food consumption that lead to weight gain. More clinical research is required to determine the optimal probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic supplementation dosages, formulations, and regimens for long-term weight management and to determine how different gastrointestinal microbiome bacterial species may influence weight gain.

Exploring body weight-influencing gut microbiota by elucidating the association with diet and host gene expression

We aimed to identify gut microbiota that influences body weight by elucidating the association with diets and host genes. Germ-free (GF) mice with and without fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) were fed a normal, high-carbohydrate, or high-fat diet. FMT mice exhibited greater total body weight; adipose tissue and liver weights; blood glucose, insulin, and total cholesterol levels; and oil droplet size than the GF mice, regardless of diet. However, the extent of weight gain and metabolic parameter levels associated with gut microbiota depended on the nutrients ingested. For example, a disaccharide- or polysaccharide-rich diet caused more weight gain than a monosaccharide-rich diet. An unsaturated fatty acid-rich diet had a greater microbial insulin-increasing effect than a saturated fatty acid-rich diet. Perhaps the difference in microbial metabolites produced from substances taken up by the host created metabolic differences. Therefore, we analyzed such dietary influences on gut microbiota, differentially expressed genes between GF and FMT mice, and metabolic factors, including body weight. The results revealed a correlation between increased weight gain, a fat-rich diet, increased Ruminococcaceae abundance, and decreased claudin 22 gene expression. These findings suggest that weight regulation might be possible through the manipulation of the gut microbiota metabolism using the host's diet.

A Microbial-Based Approach to Mental Health: The Potential of Probiotics in the Treatment of Depression

Probiotics are currently the subject of intensive research pursuits and also represent a multi-billion-dollar global industry given their vast potential to improve human health. In addition, mental health represents a key domain of healthcare, which currently has limited, adverse-effect prone treatment options, and probiotics may hold the potential to be a novel, customizable treatment for depression. Clinical depression is a common, potentially debilitating condition that may be amenable to a precision psychiatry-based approach utilizing probiotics. Although our understanding has not yet reached a sufficient level, this could be a therapeutic approach that can be tailored for specific individuals with their own unique set of characteristics and health issues. Scientifically, the use of probiotics as a treatment for depression has a valid basis rooted in the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) mechanisms, which play a role in the pathophysiology of depression. In theory, probiotics appear to be ideal as adjunct therapeutics for major depressive disorder (MDD) and as stand-alone therapeutics for mild MDD and may potentially revolutionize the treatment of depressive disorders. Although there is a wide range of probiotics and an almost limitless range of therapeutic combinations, this review aims to narrow the focus to the most widely commercialized and studied strains, namely Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, and to bring together the arguments for their usage in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Clinicians, scientists, and industrialists are critical stakeholders in exploring this groundbreaking concept.

In Vitro Probiotic Properties of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis SF and Its Alleviating Effect on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease with many influencing factors. With the increasing role of the gut–liver axis in various liver diseases, research on the prevention and treatment of NAFLD with probiotics is increasing. In the present study, a Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. strain, B. lactis SF, was isolated from the feces of healthy infants and characterized by sequencing of the 16S rDNA. A systematic probiotic evaluation was carried out, and a diet-induced mouse model was constructed to study the effect and mechanism of B. lactis SF on diet-induced NAFLD. Results show that B. lactis SF has excellent gastrointestinal fluid tolerance and intestinal colonization, and strong antibacterial and antioxidant capabilities. In vivo, B. lactis SF modulated intestinal flora, restored the intestinal barrier, and inhibited LPS entrance into the portal circulation, which subsequently inhibited the TLR4/NF-κB and modulated the PI3K-Akt/AMPK signaling pathway, attenuated the inflammatory response, and reduced lipid accumulation. In addition, B. lactis SF attenuated oxidative stress and further alleviated autophagy, resulting in an ameliorative effect on NAFLD. Therefore, our study provides a new dietary method for the treatment of NAFLD.

Identification and Selection of Prospective Probiotics for Enhancing Gastrointestinal Digestion: Application in Pharmaceutical Preparations and Dietary Supplements

Our study investigated the effectiveness of 446 strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) belonging to different species and isolated from diverse sources (food, human, and animal) as potential probiotic candidates, with the perspective of producing dietary supplements or pharmacological formulations suitable for enhancing gastrointestinal digestion. The survival capability of all the isolates under harsh gastrointestinal tract conditions was evaluated, in which only 44 strains, named high-resistant, were selected for further food digestibility investigations. All 44 strains hydrolyzed raffinose and exhibited amino and iminopeptidase activities but at various extents, confirming species- and strain-specificity. After partial in vitro digestion mimicking oral and gastric digestive phases, food matrices were incubated with single strains for 24 h. Fermented partially digested matrices provided additional functional properties for some investigated strains by releasing peptides and increasing the release of highly bio-accessible free phenolic compounds. A scoring procedure was proposed as an effective tool to reduce data complexity and quantitively characterize the probiotic potential of each LAB strain, which could be more useful in the selection procedure of powerful probiotics.

Dysbiosis of the Subgingival Microbiome and Relation to Periodontal Disease in Association with Obesity and Overweight

Obesity causes gut dysbiosis; nevertheless, little is known about the oral microbiome. We aimed to identify differences in the subgingival microbiota influenced by body weight and periodontal status. Patients (n = 75) recruited at the University Dental Hospital Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, were distributed into three equal groups (healthy weight, overweight, and obese) sub-divided into having either no-mild (NM) or moderate-severe (MS) periodontitis. Subgingival plaques were collected. Microbiota were identified by 16S rRNA sequencing using nanopore technology. Linear discriminant analysis demonstrated significant bacterial biomarkers for body weight and periodontal health. Unique microbiota signatures were identified, with enrichment of periopathogens in patients with MS periodontitis (Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in obese, Tannerella forsythia and Treponema denticola in overweight, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum in healthy weight), thus reflecting differences in the microbiota affected by body weight. Other pathogenic bacteria, such as Salmonella enterica and Klebsiella pneumoniae, were enriched in overweight subjects with NM periodontitis, suggesting an increase in the relative abundance of pathogens even in patients with good periodontal health if they were overweight. Alpha and beta diversities were significantly different among the groups. Dysbiosis of the subgingival microbiota in obese and overweight individuals was associated with increased prevalence and severity of periodontal disease, which was correlated with the body mass index. This study highlights the immense importance of the oral microbiome and the need for lifestyle and dental interventions to resolve oral dysbiosis and restore normal homeostasis.

Seaweed polysaccharide relieves hexavalent chromium-induced gut microbial homeostasis

Heavy metals released in the environment pose a huge threat to soil and water quality, food safety and public health. Additionally, humans and other mammals may also be directly exposed to heavy metals or exposed to heavy metals through the food chain, which seriously threatens the health of animals and humans. Chromium, especially hexavalent chromium [Cr (VI)], as a common heavy metal, has been shown to cause serious environmental pollution as well as intestinal damage. Thus, increasing research is devoted to finding drugs to mitigate the negative health effects of hexavalent chromium exposure. Seaweed polysaccharides have been demonstrated to have many pharmacological effects, but whether it can alleviate gut microbial dysbiosis caused by hexavalent chromium exposure has not been well characterized. Here, we hypothesized that seaweed polysaccharides could alleviate hexavalent chromium exposure-induced poor health in mice. Mice in Cr and seaweed polysaccharide treatment group was compulsively receive K2Cr2O7. At the end of the experiment, all mice were euthanized, and colon contents were collected for DNA sequencing analysis. Results showed that seaweed polysaccharide administration can restore the gut microbial dysbiosis and the reduction of gut microbial diversity caused by hexavalent chromium exposure in mice. Hexavalent chromium exposure also caused significant changes in the gut microbial composition of mice, including an increase in some pathogenic bacteria and a decrease in beneficial bacteria. However, seaweed polysaccharides administration could ameliorate the composition of gut microbiota. In conclusion, this study showed that seaweed polysaccharides can restore the negative effects of hexavalent chromium exposure in mice, including gut microbial dysbiosis. Meanwhile, this research also lays the foundation for the application of seaweed polysaccharides.

Unlocking a novel determinant of athletic performance: The role of the gut microbiota, short-chain fatty acids, and "biotics" in exercise

The gut microbiota refers to the collection of trillions of intestinal microorganisms that modulate central aspects of health and disease through influential effects on host physiology. Recently, a connection has been made between the gut microbiota and exercise. Initial investigations demonstrated the beneficial effects of exercise on the gut microbiota, with cross-sectional studies revealing positive correlations between exercise-associated states, and healthy gut microbiota and exercise interventions showed post-intervention increases in the abundance of beneficial bacterial taxa. More recent investigations have focused on exploring the reverse relationship: the influence of the gut microbiota on exercise performance. Murine investigations have revealed that certain bacterial taxa may enhance endurance exercise performance by augmenting various aspects of lactate metabolism. Further, short-chain fatty acids-which modulate metabolism at various organ sites, including within skeletal muscle-have been shown to enhance endurance exercise capacity in mice. This review highlights what is currently known about the connection between the gut microbiota and exercise, with a particular focus on the ergogenic potential of the gut microbiota and how it may be leveraged to enhance endurance exercise performance.

Association of body mass index and intestinal (faecal) Streptococcus in adults in Xining city, China P.R

Body mass index (BMI) and gut microbiota show significant interaction, but most studies on the relationship between BMI and gut microbiota have been done in Western countries. Relationships that are also identified in other cultural backgrounds are likely to have functional importance. Hence here we explore gut microbiota in adults living in Xining city (China P.R.) and relate results to subject BMI. Analysis of bacterial 16s rRNA gene was performed on faecal samples from participants with normal-weight (n=24), overweight (n=24), obesity (n=11) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) (n=8). The results show that unweighted but not weighted Unifrac distance was significantly different when gut microbiota composition was compared between the groups. Importantly, the genus Streptococcus was remarkably decreased in both obese subjects and subjects suffering from T2D, as compared to normal-weight subjects. Accordingly, strong association was identified between the genus Streptococcus and BMI and especially Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophiles was a major contributor in this respect. As previous studies have shown that Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophiles is also negatively associated with obesity in Western cohorts, our results suggest that this species is a potential probiotic for the prevention of obesity and related disorders.

The Hypolipidemic Effect of Hawthorn Leaf Flavonoids through Modulating Lipid Metabolism and Gut Microbiota in Hyperlipidemic Rats

Objective. The purpose of this study was to explore the potential mechanisms of the lipid-regulating effects and the effect on modulating the gut microbiota of hawthorn leaf flavonoids (HLF) in the high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemic rats. Methods. The hypolipidemic effect of HLF was investigated in the high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemic rats. The action targets of HLF in the treatment of hyperlipidemia were predicted by network pharmacology and KEGG enrichment bubble diagram, which were verified by the test of western blotting. Meanwhile, we used 16S rRNA sequencing to evaluate the effects of HLF on the microbes. Results. The results of animal experiments showed that HLF could reduce the body weight and regulate the levels of serum lipid in high-fat diet (HFD) rats. Meanwhile, for the related targets of cholesterol metabolism, HLF could significantly upregulate the expression of LDLR, NR1H3, and ABCG5/ABCG8; reduce the expression of PCSK9; and increase the level of CYP7A1 in the intestinal tissue, whereas cholesterol biosynthetic protein expressions including HMGCR and SCAP were lowered by HLF. In addition, HLF increased the activities of plasma SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px and decreased the levels of Casp 1, NLRP3, IL-1β, IL-18, and TNF-α, improving the degree of hepatocyte steatosis and inflammatory infiltration of rats. Notably, HLF significantly regulated the relative abundance of major bacteria such as g_Lactobacillus, g_Anaerostipes, g_[Eubacterium]_hallii_group, g_Fusicatenibacter, g_Akkermansia, and g_Collinsella. Synchronously, we found that HLF could regulate the disorder of plasma HEPC and TFR levels caused by HFD. Conclusion. This study demonstrates that HLF can regulate metabolic hyperlipidemia syndromes and modulate the relative abundance of major bacteria, which illustrated that it might be associated with the modulation of gut microbiota composition and metabolites.

Effects of probiotic and magnesium co-supplementation on mood, cognition, intestinal barrier function and inflammation in individuals with obesity and depressed mood: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial

Background

The co-occurrence of obesity and mood impairments named as “metabolic mood syndrome” (MMS) is often neglected in the obesity management. This study aimed to evaluate effects of Probio-Tec ^®BG-VCap-6.5 and magnesium co-supplementation on mood, cognition, intestinal barrier function and serum C reactive protein (CRP) levels in participants with obesity and depressed mood.

Design

Seventy-four eligible participants were randomly allocated to either Probio-Tec^®BG-VCap-6.5 [containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG^®) and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis (BB-12^®)] + Magnesium chloride or placebo for 9 weeks. Sociodemographic data were collected in the beginning. Anthropometric, dietary and physical activity (PA) assessments were carried out. Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores were assessed through validated questionnaires. Fasting plasma zonulin, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and (CRP) were measured by ELIZA kits.

Results

Of seventy-four participants (mean age 37.51 ± 8.10), 52 completed the study. Changes in serum LPS and zonulin were not different significantly between groups (−3.04 ± 44.75 ng/dl, 0.11 ± 5.13, ng/dl, p > 0.05 for LPS and 1.40 ± 48.78 ng/dl, −0.17 ± 6.60, p > 0.05 for zonulin, respectively). CRP levels reduced significantly in intervention group compared to placebo [−474.75 (−1,300.00, −125.00) mg/l vs. 175.20 (−957.75, 1,683.25) mg/l, p = 0.016]. Changes in BDI-II and MoCA scores were not significantly different between intervention (−7.13 ± 5.67, 1.20 ± 2.16, respectively) and placebo (−5.42 ± 6.71, 1.94 ± 1.86, respectively) groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Nine weeks of probiotic and magnesium co-supplementation resulted in decreased CRP levels as an indicator of inflammatory state with no significant effects on mood, cognition and intestinal integrity in individuals with obesity and depressed mood.

Human gut microbiota in health and disease: Unveiling the relationship

The human gut possesses millions of microbes that define a complex microbial community. The gut microbiota has been characterized as a vital organ forming its multidirectional connecting axis with other organs. This gut microbiota axis is responsible for host-microbe interactions and works by communicating with the neural, endocrinal, humoral, immunological, and metabolic pathways. The human gut microorganisms (mostly non-pathogenic) have symbiotic host relationships and are usually associated with the host’s immunity to defend against pathogenic invasion. The dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is therefore linked to various human diseases, such as anxiety, depression, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer. The mechanism leading to the disease development has a crucial correlation with gut microbiota, metabolic products, and host immune response in humans. The understanding of mechanisms over gut microbiota exerts its positive or harmful impacts remains largely undefined. However, many recent clinical studies conducted worldwide are demonstrating the relation of specific microbial species and eubiosis in health and disease. A comprehensive understanding of gut microbiota interactions, its role in health and disease, and recent updates on the subject are the striking topics of the current review. We have also addressed the daunting challenges that must be brought under control to maintain health and treat diseases.

Lipid-lowering activity of metformin-soluble soybean polysaccharide nanoparticles

Soybean dregs are one of the most important albeit underutilized byproducts in soybean processing. In this study, soluble soybean polysaccharides with lipid-lowering activity were extracted from soybean dregs and used as a wall material for embedding metformin. Metformin-soluble soybean polysaccharide nanoparticles (MET-SSPS-NPs) were prepared by electrostatic interaction. The lipid-lowering activity and possible mechanism of MET-SSPS-NPs were investigated. Western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of cell-related protein proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) in vitro. The results showed that MET-SSPS-NPs lowered the expression of PCSK9 and improved LDLR levels. A high-fat diet (HFD) animal model was established to study the lipid-lowering effect of MET-SSPS-NPs by real-time quantitative PCR and western blotting. MET-SSPS-NPs significantly upregulated peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) expression and downregulated PCSK9, fatty acid-binding protein (FABP)7 and FABP5 expression more strongly than MET or SSPS alone. In conclusion, MET-SSPS-NPs can inhibit PCSK9 expression and improve the level of adipokines, providing a theoretical basis for the application of MET-SSPS-NPs in lipid lowering.

Analysis of the Relationship between Gut Flora Levels in Childhood Obese Population and Normal Healthy Population Based on Machine Learning

Aims

To explore the study of the relationship between the level of gut flora in childhood obese people and normal healthy people based on the analysis of machine learning.

Materials and Methods

The stools of 54 normal weight, 53 overweight, and 59 obese children from May 2021 to May 2022 were selected. And DNA was extracted, and primers specific for the four bacteria were designed according to the specificity of the four bacteria to the 16 S rDNA gene sequences of the bacteria to be tested, and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR reactions were performed to compare whether there was any difference in the number of the four bacteria between the three groups. Results. The results of agarose gel electrophoresis showed that the PCR amplification products of all four target bacteria showed clear bands at the corresponding positions, and no nonspecific bands appeared. When compared with the marker, the size matched with the target fragment, indicating good primer specificity. The comparison between normal body recombinant, super recombinant, and obese groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05) for rectal eubacteria, polymorphic anaplasma, bifidobacteria spp., and lactobacilli. The median number of bifidobacteria in the three groups was significantly higher than the median number of rectal eubacteria, polymorphomycetes, and lactobacilli. The difference in comparison was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Stratified analysis of children's age revealed that normal body composition of Lactobacillus decreased with increasing age, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

An increase in rectal eubacteria and a decrease in polymorphomycetes, bifidobacteria spp., and lactobacilli may be associated with the development of obesity. The numbers of rectal eubacteria, polymorphic methanobacteria, bifidobacteria spp., and lactobacilli in the intestine of normal weight and obese children were less affected by sex and age.

The Biotics Family: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives in Metabolic Diseases

Globally, metabolic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease pose a major public health threat. Many studies have confirmed the causal relationship between risk factors and the etiopathogenesis of these diseases. Despite this, traditional therapeutic management methods such as physical education and diet have proven insufficient. Recently, researchers have focused on other potential pathways for explaining the pathophysiological variability of metabolic diseases, such as the involvement of the intestinal microbiota. An understanding of the relationship between the microbiome and metabolic diseases is a first step towards developing future therapeutic strategies. Currently, much attention is given to the use of biotics family members such as prebiotics (lactolose, soy oligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides, xylooligosaccharides or inulin) and probiotics (genera Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Lactococcus, Streptococcus or Enterococcus). They can be used both separately and together as synbiotics. Due to their direct influence on the composition of the intestinal microbiota, they have shown favorable results in the evolution of metabolic diseases. The expansion of the research area in the biotics family has led to the discovery of new members, like postbiotics. In the age of personalized medicine, their use as therapeutic options is of great interest to our study.

Nutrition and the state of the intestinal microflora in the formation of the metabolic syndrome

The literature review presents the results of modern studies of the relationship between diet and intestinal microbiota in the regulation of metabolic disorders. Metabolic syndrome, which is a symptom complex that combines abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia and arterial hypertension, remains an important problem, being a risk factor for cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, oncological diseases and the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Although the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome has not yet been fully elucidated, it is known that visceral obesity and its associated complications, such as dyslipidemia and increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, play a central role. The article presents data on the impact of the consumption of certain food products, the inclusion of plant biologically active substances (flavonoids, polyphenols, etc.) in the diet, as well as the use of elimination diets with the exclusion of carbohydrates or fats from the diet, on reducing the risk of cardiovascular accidents, levels of fasting glucose, total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, C-reactive protein, leptin, insulin, reduction in body weight and waist circumference, reduction in the level of circulating endotoxins and changes in the activity of immunocompetent cells. Data are presented on the possible influence of the intestinal microbiota in maintaining inflammation and the formation of degenerative changes in the body. The role of changes in the ratio of the levels of pathogenic microflora, bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in the formation of a pathological condition is shown.

Circadian Rhythms Coordinated With Gut Microbiota Partially Account for Individual Differences in Hepatitis B-Related Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is the end stage of chronic liver diseases like chronic hepatitis B. In China, hepatitis B accounts for around 60% of cases of cirrhosis. So far, clinical and laboratory indexes for the early diagnosis of cirrhosis are far from satisfactory. Nevertheless, there haven’t been specific drugs for cirrhosis. Thus, it is quite necessary to uncover more specific factors which play their roles in cirrhosis and figure out the possible therapeutic targets. Among emerging factors taking part in the initiation and progression of cirrhosis, gut microbiota might be a pivot of systemic factors like metabolism and immune and different organs like gut and liver. Discovery of detailed molecular mechanism in gut microbiota and gut liver axis leads to a more promising prospect of developing new drugs intervening in these pathways. Time-based medication regimen has been proofed to be helpful in hormonotherapy, especially in the use of glucocorticoid. Thus, circadian rhythms, though haven’t been strongly linked to hepatitis B and its complications, are still pivotal to various pathophysiological progresses. Gut microbiota as a potential effective factor of circadian rhythms has also received increasing attentions. Here, our work, restricting cirrhosis to the post-hepatitis B one, is aimed to summarize how circadian rhythms and hepatitis B-related cirrhosis can intersect via gut microbiota, and to throw new insights on the development of new and time-based therapies for hepatitis B-related cirrhosis and other cirrhosis.

The treatment of Qibai Pingfei Capsule on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may be mediated by Th17/Treg balance and gut-lung axis microbiota

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a prevalent, progressive respiratory disease, has become the third leading cause of death globally. Increasing evidence suggests that intestinal and pulmonary microbiota dysbiosis is associated with COPD. Researchers have shown that T helper (Th) 17/regulatory T (Treg) imbalance is involved in COPD. Qibai Pingfei Capsule (QBPF) is a traditional Chinese medicine used to treat COPD clinically in China. However, the effects of QBPF intervention on the Th17/Treg balance and microbiota in the gut and lung are still poorly understood.

METHODS

This study divided the rats into three groups (n = 8): control, model, and QBPF group. After establishing the model of COPD for four weeks and administering of QBPF for two weeks, Th17 cells, Treg cells, their associated cytokines, transcription factors, and intestinal and pulmonary microbiota of rats were analyzed. Furthermore, the correlations between intestinal and pulmonary microbiota and between bacterial genera and pulmonary function and immune function were measured.

RESULTS

The results revealed that QBPF could improve pulmonary function and contribute to the new balance of Th17/Treg in COPD rats. Meanwhile, QBPF treatment could regulate the composition of intestinal and pulmonary microbiota and improve community structure in COPD rats, suppressing the relative abundance of Coprococcus_2, Prevotella_9, and Blautia in the gut and Mycoplasma in the lung, but accumulating the relative abundance of Prevotellaceae_UCG_003 in the gut and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group in the lung. Additionally, gut-lung axis was confirmed by the significant correlations between the intestinal and pulmonary microbiota. Functional analysis of microbiota showed amino acid metabolism was altered in COPD rats in the gut and lung. Spearman correlation analysis further enriched the relationship between the microbiota in the gut and lung and pulmonary function and immune function in COPD model rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicated that the therapeutic effects of QBPF may be achieved by maintaining the immune cell balance and regulating the gut-lung axis microbiota, providing references to explore the potential biomarkers of COPD and the possible mechanism of QBPF to treat COPD.

Camellia (Camellia oleifera bel.) seed oil reprograms gut microbiota and alleviates lipid accumulation in high fat-fed mice through the mTOR pathway

Camellia (Camellia oleifera bel.) seed oil (CO) is extensively used as an edible oil in China and Asian countries owing to its high nutritional and medicinal values. It has been shown that a high-fat diet enhances lipid accumulation and induces intestinal microbiota imbalance in mice. However, it is still to be learned whether CO prevents dyslipidemia through gut microbiota. Here, using 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis of the gut microbiota, we found that oral CO relieved lipid accumulation and reversed gut microbiota dysbiosis. Compared to mice (C57BL/6J male mice) fed a high-fat diet, treatment with CO regulated the composition and functional profiling communities related to the lipid metabolism of gut microbiota. The abundances of Dubosiella, Lactobacillus, and Alistipes were markedly increased in CO supplementation mice. In addition, the colon levels of isobutyric acid, pentanoic acid, and isovaleric acid were similar between the control and CO supplementation mice. Besides, the results indicated that CO supplementation in mice alleviated lipid droplet accumulation in the hepatocytes and subcutaneous adipose tissue, although the liver index did not show a difference. Notably, CO supplementation for 6 weeks significantly reduced the levels of LDL, TC, and TG, while enhancing the level of HDL in serum and liver. Meanwhile, we also identified that CO supplementation suppressed the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway in high fat-fed (HF-fed) mice. Taken together, our results suggest that CO improved dyslipidemia and alleviated lipid accumulation in HF-fed mice, the molecular mechanisms possibly associated with the reorganization of gut microbiota, in particular, Alistipes and Dubosiella, mediated the inhibition of the mTOR pathway.

Maternal Gut Microbiome Decelerates Fetal Endochondral Bone Formation by Inducing Inflammatory Reaction

To investigate the effect of the maternal gut microbiome on fetal endochondral bone formation, fetuses at embryonic day 18 were obtained from germ-free (GF) and specific-pathogen-free (SPF) pregnant mothers. Skeletal preparation of the fetuses’ whole bodies did not show significant morphological alterations; however, micro-CT analysis of the tibiae showed a lower bone volume fraction in the SPF tibia. Primary cultured chondrocytes from fetal SPF rib cages showed a lower cell proliferation and lower accumulation of the extracellular matrix. RNA-sequencing analysis showed the induction of inflammation-associated genes such as the interleukin (IL) 17 receptor, IL 6, and immune-response genes in SPF chondrocytes. These data indicate that the maternal gut microbiome in SPF mice affects fetal embryonic endochondral ossification, possibly by changing the expression of genes related to inflammation and the immune response in fetal cartilage. The gut microbiome may modify endochondral ossification in the fetal chondrocytes passing through the placenta.

Beneficial Effects of a Low-Glycemic Diet on Serum Metabolites and Gut Microbiota in Obese Women With Prevotella and Bacteriodes Enterotypes: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Generalized healthy eating patterns may not benefit everyone due to different genetics and enterotypes. We aimed to compare the effects of a low-glycemic diet representing the Korean traditional balanced diet (Low-GID) and westernized diet as a control diet (CD) on anthropometry, serum metabolites, and fecal bacteria in a randomized clinical trial according to enterotypes. We recruited 52 obese women aged 30-50 years, and they consumed Low-GID and CD meals for 1 month, with a 1-month washout period, in a crossover randomized clinical trial. The Low-GID was mainly composed of whole grains with fish, vegetables, seaweeds, and perilla oil, whereas CD contained refined rice, bread, noodles, meats, and processed foods. Serum lipid profiles, metabolomics, serum short-chain fatty acids, and fecal bacteria were analyzed. The important variables influenced by Low-GID and CD were determined by SHAP value in the XGBoost algorithm according to Bacteroides (ET-B) and Prevotella (ET-P). Low-GID and CD interventions did not change the enterotypes, but they modified serum metabolites and some fecal bacterial species differently according to enterotypes. The 10-fold cross-validation of the XGBoost classifier in the ET-P and ET-B clusters was 0.91 ± 0.04 and 0.8 ± 0.07, respectively. In the ET-P cluster, serum L-homocysteine, glutamate, leucine concentrations, and muscle mass were higher in the CD group than in the Low-GID group, whereas serum 3-hydroxybutyric acid concentration was significantly higher in the Low-GID group than in the CD group (p < 0.05). In fecal bacteria, Gemmiger formicilis, Collinsella aerofaciens, and Escherichia coli were higher in the CD group than in the Low-GID group. In the ET-B cohort, serum tryptophan and total cholesterol concentrations were higher in the CD group than in the Low-GID group, whereas serum glutathione and 3-hydroxybutyric acid concentrations were significantly higher in the Low-GID group than in the CD group (p < 0.05). However, Bifidobacterium longum was higher in CD than Low-GID in the ET-B cluster, but serum butyric acid levels were higher in the Low-GID than in the CD group. In conclusion, Low-GID can be recommended in obese women with both ET-P and ET-B enterotypes, although its efficacy was more effective in ET-P.

Clinical Trial Registration

[https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/detailSearch.do/17398], identifier [KCT0005340].

The AT1 Receptor Blocker Telmisartan Reduces Intestinal Mucus Thickness in Obese Mice

The angiotensin II (type 1) (AT₁) receptor blocker telmisartan (TEL) is beneficial for the treatment of individuals suffering from metabolic syndrome. As we have shown that TEL has an impact on gut microbiota, we investigated here whether TEL influences gut barrier function. C57BL/6N mice were fed with chow or high-fat diet (HFD) and treated with vehicle or TEL (8 mg/kg/day). Mucus thickness was determined by immunohistochemistry. Periodic Acid-Schiff staining allowed the number of goblet cells to be counted. Using western blots, qPCR, and immunohistochemistry, factors related to mucus biosynthesis (Muc2, St6galnac), proliferation (Ki-67), or necroptosis (Rip3) were measured. The influence on cell viability was determined in vitro by using losartan, as the water solubility of TEL was too low for in vitro experiments. Upon HFD, mice developed obesity as well as leptin and insulin resistance, which were prevented by TEL. Mucus thickness upon HFD-feeding was diminished. Independent of feeding, TEL additionally reduced mucus thickness. Numbers of goblet cells were not affected by HFD-feeding and TEL. St6galnac expression was increased by TEL. Rip3 was increased in TEL-treated and HFD-fed mice, while Ki-67 decreased. Cell viability was diminished by using >1 mM losartan. The anti-obese effect of TEL was associated with a decrease in mucus thickness, which was likely not related to a lower expression of Muc2 and goblet cells. A decrease in Ki-67 and increase in Rip3 indicates lower cell proliferation and increased necroptosis upon TEL. However, direct cell toxic effects are ruled out, as in vivo concentrations are lower than 1 mM.

The anti-obesity and gut microbiota modulating effects of taxifolin in C57BL/6J mice fed with a high-fat diet

BACKGROUND

Taxifolin is a natural dihydroflavonol found in many plants and health products. In the present study, its anti-obesity and gut microbiota modulating effects were studied. C57BL/6J mice were fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) supplemented with taxifolin (0, 0.5 and 1 mg mL^-1 , respectively) in drinking water for 15 weeks.

RESULTS

Taxifolin supplementation showed no influence on food and water intake. However, it decreased body weight gain, inhibited fat accumulation, and decreased total cholesterol and triacylglycerol level in mice liver. Taxifolin enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in mice liver, which in turn protected the liver from lipid peroxidation damage. It also improved insulin resistance in obese mice. Metagenomic analysis of bacterial 16S rRNA demonstrated that HFD decreased gut microbiota diversity and caused dysbiosis. However, taxifolin improved the gut microbiota diversity and decreased the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. In particular, it inhibited Proteobacteria from blooming, this being a signature of dysbiosis in gut microbiota.

CONCLUSION

Taxifolin ameliorated the symptoms of obesity, hepatic steatosis, lipid peroxidation, insulin resistance, and gut microbiota dysbiosis in HFD fed C57BL/6J mice. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Involvement of the Dorsal Vagal Complex in Alcohol-Related Behaviors

The neurobiological mechanisms that regulate the development and maintenance of alcohol use disorder (AUD) are complex and involve a wide variety of within and between systems neuroadaptations. While classic reward, preoccupation, and withdrawal neurocircuits have been heavily studied in terms of AUD, viable treatment targets from this established literature have not proven clinically effective as of yet. Therefore, examination of additional neurocircuitries not classically studied in the context of AUD may provide novel therapeutic targets. Recent studies demonstrate that various neuropeptides systems are important modulators of alcohol reward, seeking, and intake behaviors. This includes neurocircuitry within the dorsal vagal complex (DVC), which is involved in the control of the autonomic nervous system, control of intake of natural rewards like food, and acts as a relay of interoceptive sensory information via interactions of numerous gut-brain peptides and neurotransmitter systems with DVC projections to central and peripheral targets. DVC neuron subtypes produce a variety of neuropeptides and transmitters and project to target brain regions critical for reward such as the mesolimbic dopamine system as well as other limbic areas important for the negative reinforcing and aversive properties of alcohol withdrawal such as the extended amygdala. This suggests the DVC may play a role in the modulation of various aspects of AUD. This review summarizes the current literature on neurotransmitters and neuropeptides systems in the DVC (e.g., norepinephrine, glucagon-like peptide 1, neurotensin, cholecystokinin, thyrotropin-releasing hormone), and their potential relevance to alcohol-related behaviors in humans and rodent models for AUD research. A better understanding of the role of the DVC in modulating alcohol related behaviors may lead to the elucidation of novel therapeutic targets for drug development in AUD.

Role of the Gut Microbiome in Beta Cell and Adipose Tissue Crosstalk: A Review

In the last decades, obesity has reached epidemic proportions worldwide. Obesity is a chronic disease associated with a wide range of comorbidities, including insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), which results in significant burden of disease and major consequences on health care systems. Of note, intricate interactions, including different signaling pathways, are necessary for the establishment and progression of these two closely related conditions. Altered cell-to-cell communication among the different players implicated in this equation leads to the perpetuation of a vicious circle associated with an increased risk for the development of obesity-related complications, such as T2D, which in turn contributes to the development of cardiovascular disease. In this regard, the dialogue between the adipocyte and pancreatic beta cells has been extensively studied, although some connections are yet to be fully elucidated. In this review, we explore the potential pathological mechanisms linking adipocyte dysfunction and pancreatic beta cell impairment/insulin resistance. In addition, we evaluate the role of emerging actors, such as the gut microbiome, in this complex crosstalk.

Linking Gut Microbiota, Metabolic Syndrome and Metabolic Health among a Sample of Obese Egyptian Females

Background: Studies of the gut microbiota have revealed a great link to obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of this study was to review the dysbiosis of gut microbiota in terms of the components of MetS among a sample of obese Egyptian female patients and to assess current potential gut microbiota targeted therapies for the treatment of MetS. Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study included 82 obese Egyptian women.  All participants were subjected to anthropometric assessment; and  laboratory evaluation of fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, C-reactive protein (CRP), lipid profile and insulin resistance (HOMA), in addition to fecal microbiota analysis for Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacteroid. Results: Among obese group with MetS, Firmicutes / Bacteroidetes Ratio was negatively associated with HOMA and positively associated with serum cholesterol and LDL, while lactobacillus was negatively associated with serum cholesterol. Among obese group without MetS, Firmicutes/ Bacteroidetes ratio is negatively associated with WC (central obesity marker) and positively associated with CRP (inflammatory marker), while lactobacillus was positively correlated with FBS and HOMA, and Bifidobacteria was negatively associated with serum cholesterol and LDL.Conclusion: The two beneficial types the Lactobacillus and bifidobacteria supplementation in form of probiotic with therapeutic treatment and decreasing of WChave their important role in controlling and treating hypertension, serum cholesterol and LDL levels, among obese females even with MetS.

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.