Gut Microbiome and Obesity: A Plausible Explanation for Obesity

Gut microbiota and childhood malnutrition: Understanding the link and exploring therapeutic interventions

Childhood malnutrition is a metabolic condition that affects the physical and mental well-being of children and leads to resultant disorders in maturity. The development of childhood malnutrition is influenced by a number of physiological and environmental factors including metabolic stress, infections, diet, genetic variables, and gut microbiota. The imbalanced gut microbiota is one of the main environmental risk factors that significantly influence host physiology and childhood malnutrition progression. In this review, we have evaluated the gut microbiota association with undernutrition and overnutrition in children, and then the quantitative and qualitative significance of gut dysbiosis in order to reveal the impact of gut microbiota modification using probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and engineering biology methods as new therapeutic challenges in the management of disturbed energy homeostasis. Understanding the host-microbiota interaction and the remote regulation of other organs and pathways by gut microbiota can improve the effectiveness of new therapeutic approaches and mitigate the negative consequences of childhood malnutrition.

Association between gut microbiota at 3.5 years of age and body mass index at 5 years: results from two French nationwide birth cohorts

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The relationship between gut microbiota and changes in body mass index (BMI) or pediatric overweight in early life remains unclear, and information regarding the preterm population is scarce. This study aimed to investigate how the gut microbiota at 3.5 years of age is associated with (1) later BMI at 5 years, and (2) BMI z-score variations between 2 and 5 years in children from two French nationwide birth cohorts.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Bacterial 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed to profile the gut microbiota at 3.5 years of age in preterm children (n = 143, EPIPAGE 2 cohort) and late preterm/full-term children (n = 369, ELFE cohort). The predicted abundances of metabolic functions were computed using PICRUSt2. Anthropometric measurements were collected at 2 and 5 years of age during medical examinations or retrieved from children's health records. Statistical analyses included multivariable linear and logistic regressions, random forest variable selection, and MiRKAT.

RESULTS

The Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio at 3.5 years was positively associated with the BMI z-score at 5 years. Several genera were positively ([Eubacterium] hallii group, Fusicatenibacter, and [Eubacterium] ventriosum group) or negatively (Eggerthella, Colidextribacter, and Ruminococcaceae CAG-352) associated with the BMI z-scores at 5 years. Some genera were also associated with variations in the BMI z-scores between 2 and 5 years of age. Predicted metabolic functions, including steroid hormone biosynthesis, biotin metabolism, glycosaminoglycan degradation, and amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, were associated with lower BMI z-scores at 5 years. The unsaturated fatty acids biosynthesis pathway was associated with higher BMI z-scores.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that the gut microbiota at 3.5 years is associated with later BMI during childhood, independent of preterm or term birth, suggesting that changes in the gut microbiota that may predispose to adult obesity begin in early childhood.

Bariatric Surgery and New-Onset Substance Use Disorders: A Systematic review and Meta-analysis

Increasing evidence suggests that bariatric surgery (BS) patients are at risk for substance abuse disorders (SUD). The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the relationship between BS and the development of new-onset substance abuse disorder (SUDNO) in bariatric patients. On October 31, 2023, we reviewed the scientific literature following PRISMA guidelines. A total of 3242 studies were analyzed, 7 met the inclusion criteria. The pooled incidence of SUDNO was 4.28%. Patients' characteristics associated with SUDNO included preoperative mental disorders, high pre-BS BMI, and public health insurance. Surgical factors associated with new SUDNOs included severe complications in the peri- or postoperative period. The occurrence of SUDNOs is a non-negligeable complication after BS. Predisposing factors may be identified and preventive actions undertaken.

Effect of Ketogenic Diet on Obesity and Other Metabolic Disorders: Narrative Review

Obesity is defined as an abnormal or excessive accumulation of fat that increases the burden of different chronic diseases in the population. It has reached epidemic proportions and is a major risk factor for a variety of diseases, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidaemia, atherosclerosis, and some malignancies. Weight gain is a result of excessive energy intake compared to energy expenditure (energy loss from metabolism and physical exercise). A ketogenic diet has a more useful effect on obesity than other diets. A ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat, moderate-protein diet that induces the production of ketone bodies by mimicking the breakdown of a fasting state. The mechanism behind the ketogenic diet is still unknown, although it obviously helps people with obesity lose weight. Several pathways for the ketogenic diet effect on weight loss have been hypothesized by researchers, including reduced appetite due to effects on appetite control hormones and a possible direct appetite suppressant action of ketone bodies; reduced lipogenesis and increased lipolysis; greater metabolic efficiency; and increased metabolic costs.

Preliminary characterization of gut mycobiome enterotypes reveals the correlation trends between host metabolic parameter and diet: a case study in the Thai Cohort

The association between the gut mycobiome and its potential influence on host metabolism in the Thai Cohort was assessed. Two distinct predominant enterotypes, Saccharomyces (Sa) and Aspergillus/Penicillium (Ap/Pe) showed differences in gut mycobiota diversity and composition. Notably, the Sa enterotype exhibited lower evenness and richness, likely due to the prevalence of Saccharomyces, while both enterotypes displayed unique metabolic behaviors related to nutrient metabolism and body composition. Fiber consumption was positively correlated with adverse body composition and fasting glucose levels in individuals with the Sa enterotype, whereas in the Ap/Pe enterotype it was positively correlated with fat and protein intake. The metabolic functional analysis revealed the Sa enterotype associated with carbohydrate metabolism, while the Ap/Pe enterotype involved in lipid metabolism. Very interestingly, the genes involved in the pentose and glucuronate interconversion pathway, such as polygalacturonase and L-arabinose-isomerase, were enriched in the Sa enterotype signifying a metabolic capacity for complex carbohydrate degradation and utilization of less common sugars as energy sources. These findings highlight the interplay between gut mycobiome composition, dietary habits, and metabolic outcomes within the Thai cohort studies.

Effect of Lifelong Exposure to Dietary Plant and Marine Sources of n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Morphologic and Gene Expression Biomarkers of Intestinal Health in Early Life

Altered intestinal health is also associated with the incidence and severity of many chronic inflammatory conditions, which could be attenuated via dietary n-3 PUFA interventions. However, little is known about the effect of lifelong exposure to n-3 PUFA from plant and marine sources (beginning in utero via the maternal diet) on early life biomarkers of intestinal health. Harems of C57Bl/6 mice were randomly assigned to one of three isocaloric AIN-93G modified diets differing in their fat sources consisting of the following: (i) 10% safflower oil (SO, enriched in n-6 PUFA), (ii) 3% flaxseed oil + 7% safflower oil (FX, plant-based n-3 PUFA-enriched diet), or (iii) 3% menhaden fish oil + 7% safflower oil (MO, marine-based n-3 PUFA-enriched diet). Mothers remained on these diets throughout pregnancy and offspring (n = 14/diet) continued on the same parental diet until termination at 3 weeks of age. In ileum, villi:crypt length ratios were increased in both the FX and MO dietary groups compared to SO (p < 0.05). Ileum mRNA expression of critical intestinal health biomarkers was increased by both n-3 PUFA-enriched diets including Relmβ and REG3γ compared to SO (p < 0.05), whereas only the FX diet increased mRNA expression of TFF3 and Muc2 (p < 0.05) and only the MO diet increased mRNA expression of ZO-1 (p < 0.05). In the proximal colon, both the FX and MO diets increased crypt lengths compared to SO (p < 0.05), whereas only the MO diet increased goblet cell numbers compared to SO (p < 0.05). Further, the MO diet increased proximal colon mRNA expression of Relmβ and REG3γ (p < 0.05) and both MO and FX increased mRNA expression of Muc2 compared to SO (p < 0.05). Collectively, these results demonstrate that lifelong exposure to dietary n-3 PUFA, beginning in utero, from both plant and marine sources, can support intestinal health development in early life. The differential effects between plant and marine sources warrants further investigation for optimizing health.

Long-Term Changes to the Microbiome, Blood Lipid Profiles and IL-6 in Female and Male Swedish Patients in Response to Bariatric Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Lipid metabolism dysregulation is a critical factor contributing to obesity. To counteract obesity-associated disorders, bariatric surgery is implemented as a very effective method. However, surgery such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is irreversible, resulting in life-long changes to the digestive tract. The aim of the present study was to elucidate changes in the fecal microbiota before and after RYGB in relation to blood lipid profiles and proinflammatory IL-6. Here, we studied the long-term effects, up to six years after the RYGB procedure, on 15 patients' gut microbiomes and their post-surgery well-being, emphasizing the biological sex of the patients. The results showed improved health among the patients after surgery, which coincided with weight loss and improved lipid metabolism. Health changes were associated with decreased inflammation and significant alterations in the gut microbiome after surgery that differed between females and males. The Actinobacteriota phylum decreased in females and increased in males. Overall increases in the genera Prevotella, Paraprevotella, Gemella, Streptococcus, and Veillonella_A, and decreases in Bacteroides_H, Anaerostipes, Lachnoclostridium_B, Hydrogeniiclostridium, Lawsonibacter, Paludicola, and Rothia were observed. In conclusion, our findings indicate that there were long-term changes in the gut microbiota after RYGB, and shifts in the microbial taxa appeared to differ depending on sex, which should be investigated further in a larger cohort.

An Intestinal FXR Agonist Mitigates Dysbiosis, Intestinal Tight Junctions, and Inflammation in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice

SCOPE

To analyze the effects of fexaramine (FEX), as an intestinal FXR agonist, on the modulation of the intestinal microbiota and ileum of mice fed a high-fat (HF) diet.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Three-month-old C57Bl/6 male mice are divided into two groups and received a control (C, 10% of energy from lipids) or HF (50% of energy from lipids) diet for 12 weeks. They are subdivided into the C, C + FEX, HF, and HF + FEX groups. FEX is administered (FEX-5 mg kg-1 ) via orogastric gavage for three weeks. Body mass (BM), glucose metabolism, qPCR 16S rRNA gene expression, and ileum gene expression, bile acids (BAs), tight junctions (TJs), and incretin are analyzed. FEX reduces BM and glucose intolerance, reduces plasma lipid concentrations and the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, increases the Lactobacillus sp. and Prevotella sp. abundance, and reduces the Escherichia coli abundance. Consequently, the ileal gene expression of Fxr-Fgf15, Tgr5-Glp1, and Cldn-Ocldn-Zo1 is increased, and Tlr4-Il6-Il1beta is decreased.

CONCLUSION

FEX stimulates intestinal FXR and improves dysbiosis, intestinal TJs, and the release of incretins, mitigating glucose intolerance and BM increases induced by an HF diet. However, FEX results in glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, and reduces intestinal TJs in a control group, thus demonstrating limitations to this dietary model.

Bioactives and their roles in bone metabolism of osteoarthritis: evidence and mechanisms on gut-bone axis

Bioactives significantly modify and maintain human health. Available data suggest that Bioactives might play a beneficial role in chronic inflammatory diseases. Although promised, defining their mechanisms and opting to weigh their benefits and limitations is imperative. Detailed mechanisms by which critical Bioactives, including probiotics and prebiotics such as dietary lipids (DHA, EPA, alpha LA), vitamin D, polysaccharides (fructooligosaccharide), polyphenols (curcumin, resveratrol, and capsaicin) potentially modulate inflammation and bone metabolism is limited. Certain dietary bioactive significantly impact the gut microbiota, immune system, and pain response via the gut-immune-bone axis. This narrative review highlights a recent update on mechanistic evidence that bioactive is demonstrated demonstrated to reduce osteoarthritis pathophysiology.

The Beneficial Effects of Dietary Interventions on Gut Microbiota-An Up-to-Date Critical Review and Future Perspectives

Different dietary interventions, especially intermittent fasting, are widely used and promoted by physicians; these regimens have been studied lately for their impact on the gut microbiota composition/function and, consequently, on the general physiopathological processes of the host. Studies are showing that dietary components modulate the microbiota, and, at the same time, the host metabolism is deeply influenced by the different products resulting from nutrient transformation in the microbiota compartment. This reciprocal relationship can potentially influence even drug metabolism for chronic drug regimens, significantly impacting human health/disease. Recently, the influence of various dietary restrictions on the gut microbiota and the differences between the effects were investigated. In this review, we explored the current knowledge of different dietary restrictions on animal and human gut microbiota and the impact of these changes on human health.

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.

Comparison of the Gut Microbial Communities of Domestic and Wild Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) Based on High-Throughput Sequencing Technology

Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) are currently one of the most popular species in rare bird breeding in several southern provinces of China, but there have been no studies comparing the gut microbial communities of domestic and wild mallards. In this study, 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing technology was used to compare the composition and diversity of gut microbial communities in domestic and wild mallards. Alpha diversity analysis showed significant differences in gut microbial communities between the two groups of mallards, and the diversity and richness of gut microbial communities were significantly higher in wild mallards than in domestic mallards. Beta diversity analysis showed that the two groups of stool samples were mostly separated on the principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) plot. In domestic mallards, Firmicutes (68.0% ± 26.5%) was the most abundant bacterial phylum, followed by Proteobacteria (24.5% ± 22.9%), Bacteroidetes (3.1% ± 3.2%), Fusobacteria (2.2% ± 5.9%), and Actinobacteria (1.1% ± 1.8%). The dominant bacterial phyla in wild mallards were Firmicutes (79.0% ± 10.2%), Proteobacteria (12.9% ± 9.5%), Fusobacteria (3.4% ± 2.5%), and Bacteroidetes (2.8% ± 2.4%). At the genus level, a total of 10 dominant genera (Streptococcus, Enterococcus, Clostridium, Lactobacillus, Soilbacillus, Bacillus, Acinetobacter, Comamonas, Shigella, and Cetobacterium) with an average relative abundance greater than 1% were detected in the fecal samples of both groups. The average relative abundance of five potential pathogenic genera (Streptococcus, Enterococcus, Acinetobacter, Comamonas, and Shigella) was higher in domestic mallards than in wild mallards. The enrichment of pathogenic bacteria in the intestinal tract of domestic mallards should be of sufficient concern.

Alteration of the fecal microbiome in patients with cholecystectomy: potential relationship with postcholecystectomy diarrhea - before and after study

BACKGROUND

Bile acid (BA) is a crucial determinant of the gut microbiome, and cholecystectomy can alter the physiology of BA. Physiological changes in BA resulting from cholecystectomy can also influence the gut microbiome. We aimed to identify the specific taxa associated with perioperative symptoms, including postcholecystectomy diarrhea (PCD), and to evaluate the effect of cholecystectomy on the microbiome by investigating the fecal microbiome of patients with gallstones.

METHODS

We analyzed the fecal samples of 39 patients with gallstones (GS group) and 26 healthy controls (HC group) to evaluate their gut microbiome. We also collected fecal samples from GS group 3 months postcholecystectomy. Symptoms of patients were evaluated before and after cholecystectomy. Further, 16S ribosomal RNA amplification and sequencing were performed to determine the metagenomic profile of fecal samples.

RESULTS

The microbiome composition of GS differed from that of HC; however, the alpha diversity was not different. No significant microbiome alterations were observed before and after cholecystectomy. Moreover, GS group showed a significantly lower Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio before and after cholecystectomy than the HC group (6.2, P< 0.05). The inter-microbiome relationship was lower in GS than in HC and tended to recover 3 months after surgery. Furthermore, ~28.1% ( n =9) of patients developed PCD after surgery. The most prominent species among PCD (+) patients was Phocaeicola vulgatus. Compared with the preoperative state, Sutterellaceae , Phocaeicola , and Bacteroidals were the most dominant taxa among PCD (+) patients.

CONCLUSION

GS group showed a different microbiome from that of HC; however, their microbiomes were not different 3 months after cholecystectomy. Our data revealed taxa-associated PCD, highlighting the possibility of symptom relief by restoring the gut microbiome.

Enhancing Health Benefits through Chlorophylls and Chlorophyll-Rich Agro-Food: A Comprehensive Review

Chlorophylls play a crucial role in photosynthesis and are abundantly found in green fruits and vegetables that form an integral part of our diet. Although limited, existing studies suggest that these photosynthetic pigments and their derivatives possess therapeutic properties. These bioactive molecules exhibit a wide range of beneficial effects, including antioxidant, antimutagenic, antigenotoxic, anti-cancer, and anti-obesogenic activities. However, it is unfortunate that leafy materials and fruit peels often go to waste in the food supply chain, contributing to the prevailing issue of food waste in modern societies. Nevertheless, these overlooked materials contain valuable bioactive compounds, including chlorophylls, which offer significant health benefits. Consequently, exploring the potential of these discarded resources, such as utilizing them as functional food ingredients, aligns with the principles of a circular economy and presents exciting opportunities for exploitation.

Foundational Nutrition: Implications for Human Health

Human nutrition, and what can be considered "ideal" nutrition, is a complex, multi-faceted topic which many researchers and practitioners deliberate. While some attest that basic human nutrition is relatively understood, it is undeniable that a global nutritional problem persists. Many countries struggle with malnutrition or caloric deficits, while others encounter difficulties with caloric overconsumption and micronutrient deficiencies. A multitude of factors contribute to this global problem. Limitations to the current scope of the recommended daily allowances (RDAs) and dietary reference intakes (DRIs), changes in soil quality, and reductions in nutrient density are just a few of these factors. In this article, we propose a new, working approach towards human nutrition designated "Foundational Nutrition". This nutritional lens combines a whole food approach in conjunction with micronutrients and other nutrients critical for optimal human health with special consideration given to the human gut microbiome and overall gut health. Together, this a synergistic approach which addresses vital components in nutrition that enhances the bioavailability of nutrients and to potentiate a bioactive effect.

Effects of microbial-derived biotics (meta/pharma/post-biotics) on the modulation of gut microbiome and metabolome; general aspects and emerging trends

Potential effects of metabiotics (probiotics effector molecules or signaling factors), pharmabiotics (pro-functional metabolites produced by gut microbiota (GMB)) and postbiotics (multifunctional metabolites and structural compounds of food-grade microorganisms) on GMB have been rarely reviewed. These multifunctional components have several promising capabilities for prevention, alleviation and treatment of some diseases or disorders. Correlations between these essential biotics and GMB are also very interesting and important in human health and nutrition. Furthermore, these natural bioactives are involved in modulation of the immune function, control of metabolic dysbiosis and regulation of the signaling pathways. This review discusses the potential of meta/pharma/post-biotics as new classes of pharmaceutical agents and their effective mechanisms associated with GMB-host cell to cell communications with therapeutic benefits which are important in balance and the integrity of the host microbiome. In addition, cutting-edge findings about bioinformatics /metabolomics analyses related to GMB and these essential biotics are reviewed.

A Scoping Review of the Relationship between Intermittent Fasting and the Human Gut Microbiota: Current Knowledge and Future Directions

Intermittent fasting (IF) has been promoted as an alternative to dietary caloric restriction for the treatment of obesity. IF restricts the amount of food consumed and improves the metabolic balance by synchronizing it with the circadian rhythm. Dietary changes have a rapid effect on the gut microbiota, modulating the interaction between meal timing and host circadian rhythms. Our paper aims to review the relationships between IF and human gut microbiota. In this study, the primary area of focus was the effect of IF on the diversity and composition of gut microbiota and its relationship with weight loss and metabolomic alterations, which are particularly significant for metabolic syndrome characteristics. We discussed each of these findings according to the type of IF involved, i.e., time-restricted feeding, Ramadan fasting, alternate-day fasting, and the 5:2 diet. Favorable metabolic effects regarding the reciprocity between IF and gut microbiota changes have also been highlighted. In conclusion, IF may enhance metabolic health by modifying the gut microbiota. However additional research is required to draw definitive conclusions about this outcome because of the limited number and diverse designs of existing studies.

Implication of Obesity and Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis in the Etiology of Colorectal Cancer

The complexity and variety of gut microbiomes within and among individuals have been extensively studied in recent years in connection to human health and diseases. Our growing understanding of the bidirectional communication between metabolic diseases and the gut microbiome has also highlighted the significance of gut microbiome dysbiosis in the genesis and development of obesity-related cancers. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend the possible role of the gut microbiota in the crosstalk between obesity and colorectal cancer (CRC). Through the induction of gut microbial dysbiosis, gut epithelial barrier impairment, metabolomic dysregulation, chronic inflammation, or dysregulation in energy harvesting, obesity may promote the development of colorectal tumors. It is well known that strategies for cancer prevention and treatment are most effective when combined with a healthy diet, physical activity, and active lifestyle choices. Recent studies also suggest that an improved understanding of the complex linkages between the gut microbiome and various cancers as well as metabolic diseases can potentially improve cancer treatments and overall outcomes. In this context, we herein review and summarize the clinical and experimental evidence supporting the functional role of the gut microbiome in the pathogenesis and progression of CRC concerning obesity and its metabolic correlates, which may pave the way for the development of novel prognostic tools for CRC prevention. Therapeutic approaches for restoring the microbiome homeostasis in conjunction with cancer treatments are also discussed herein.

Nutritional implications in the mechanistic link between the intestinal microbiome, renin-angiotensin system, and the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome

Obesity and metabolic disorders represent a significant global health problem and the gut microbiota plays an important role in modulating systemic homeostasis. Recent evidence shows that microbiota and its signaling pathways may affect the whole metabolism and the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS), which in turn seems to modify microbiota. The present review aimed to investigate nutritional implications in the mechanistic link between the intestinal microbiome, renin-angiotensin system, and the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome components. A description of metabolic changes was obtained based on relevant scientific literature. The molecular and physiological mechanisms that impact the human microbiome were addressed, including the gut microbiota associated with obesity, diabetes, and hepatic steatosis. The RAS interaction signaling and modulation were analyzed. Strategies including the use of prebiotics, symbiotics, probiotics, and biotechnology may affect the gut microbiota and its impact on human health.

Resistant starch from black rice, Oryza sativa L. var. ameliorates renal inflammation, fibrosis and injury in insulin resistant rats

It has recently been reported that black rice (BR) extract has anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, and anti-osteoporosis effects. It has been shown to reduce obese-related kidney dysfunction in animal models. This study aimed to investigate the effect of resistant starch from BR (RS) on renal inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in obese insulin resistant rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into six groups: normal diet (ND), ND treated with 150 mg of RS (NDRS150), high-fat (HF) diet, HF treated with 100 and 150 mg of RS (HFRS100), (HFRS150), and HF treated with metformin as a positive control. Insulin resistance was shown in the HF rats by glucose intolerance, increased insulin, total area under the curve of glucose and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. The resulting metabolic disturbance in the HF rats caused renal inflammation, fibrosis and apoptosis progressing to kidney injury and dysfunction. Prebiotic RS including anthocyanin from BR at doses of 100 and 150 mg ameliorated insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and liver injury. Treatment with RS reduced TGF-β fibrotic and apoptotic pathways by inhibition of NF-κB and inflammatory cytokines which potentially restore kidney damage and dysfunction. In conclusion, prebiotic RS from BR ameliorated obesity induced renal injury and dysfunction by attenuating inflammatory, fibrotic, and apoptotic pathways in insulin resistant rats induced by HF.

Mechanisms linking bariatric surgery to adipose tissue, glucose metabolism, fatty liver disease and gut microbiota

PURPOSE

In the last 20 years, bariatric surgery has achieved an important role in translational and clinical research because of obesity comorbidities. Initially, a tool to lose weight, bariatric surgery now has been shown to be involved in several metabolic pathways.

METHODS

We conducted a narrative review discussing the underlying mechanisms that could explain the impact of bariatric surgery and the relationship between obesity and adipose tissue, T2D, gut microbiota, and NAFLD.

RESULTS

Bariatric surgery has an impact in the relation between obesity and type 2 diabetes, but in addition  it induces the white-to-brown adipocyte trans-differentiation, by enhancing thermogenesis. Another issue is the connection of bariatric surgery with the gut microbiota and its role in the complex mechanism underlying weight gain.

CONCLUSION

Bariatric surgery modifies gut microbiota, and these modifications influence lipid metabolism, leading to improvement of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Functional and Compositional Changes in the Fecal Microbiome of a Shorebird during Migratory Stopover

Shorebirds migrate long distances twice annually, which requires intense physiological and morphological adaptations, including the ability to rapidly gain weight via fat deposition at stopover locations. The role of the microbiome in weight gain in avian hosts is unresolved, but there is substantial evidence to support the hypothesis that the microbiome is involved with host weight from mammalian microbiome literature. Here, we collected 100 fecal samples of Ruddy Turnstones to investigate microbiome composition and function during stopover weight gain in Delaware Bay, USA. Using 16S rRNA sequencing on 90 of these samples and metatranscriptomic sequencing on 22, we show that taxonomic composition of the microbiome shifts during weight gain, as do functional aspects of the metatranscriptome. We identified 10 genes that are associated with weight class, and polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis in the microbiota is significantly increasing as birds gain weight. Our results support that the microbiome is a dynamic feature of host biology that interacts with both the host and the environment and may be involved in the rapid weight gain of shorebirds. IMPORTANCE Many animals migrate long distances annually, and these journeys require intense physiological and morphological adaptations. One such adaptation in shorebirds is the ability to rapidly gain weight at stopover locations in the middle of their migrations. The role of the microbiome in weight gain in birds is unresolved but is likely to play a role. Here, we collected 100 fecal samples from Ruddy Turnstones to investigate microbiome composition (who is there) and function (what they are doing) during stopover weight gain in Delaware Bay, USA. Using multiple molecular methods, we show that both taxonomic composition and function of the microbiome shifts during weight gain. We identified 10 genes that are associated with weight class, and polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis in the microbiota is significantly increasing as birds gain weight. Our results support that the microbiome is a dynamic feature of host biology that interacts with both the host and the environment and may be involved in the rapid weight gain of shorebirds.

Short-term exposure of HFD depresses intestinal cholinergic anti-inflammatory activity through hypothalamic inflammation in mice

High-fat diet (HFD) exposure has been proven to impair vagus nerve function. However, it is not yet known whether the HFD challenge impacts vagal efferent-based intestinal cholinergic anti-inflammation activity. This investigation aims to evaluate the effect of HFD on intestinal cholinergic anti-inflammatory activity in mice. Mice with or without intracerebroventricular treatment with an antibody against toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) were fed with HFD or standard chow for 2 weeks. Vagus nerve-based anti-inflammatory activity was analyzed by heart rate variability. Acetylcholine (ACh) content, nicotinic acetylcholine receptor α7 subtype (α7nAChR), and pro-inflammatory cytokines were analyzed by biochemical kits or qRT-PCR. HFD feeding mice exhibit a significant increase in high frequency (HF) and a decrease in the ratio of low frequency/HF, which were accompanied by lower ACh levels and α7nAChR mRNA expression in the intestinal segments. However, anti-TLR4 antibody-treated HFD mice showed normal ACh levels and α7nAChR mRNA expression in the intestinal segments. Moreover, TNF-α production in small intestine was significantly reduced in HFD + antibody group compared with HFD + vehicle group. Collectively, our present results reveal that HFD challenge depresses intestinal cholinergic anti-inflammatory activity, which is mediated by hypothalamic inflammation. Impairment of intestinal cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway is the cause of intestinal low-grade inflammation by HFD consumption.

Obesity and Its Multiple Clinical Implications between Inflammatory States and Gut Microbiotic Alterations

Obesity is a chronic multifactorial disease that has become a serious health problem and is currently widespread over the world. It is, in fact, strongly associated with many other conditions, including insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, the onset of different types of malignant tumors and alterations in reproductive function. According to the literature, obesity is characterized by a state of low-grade chronic inflammation, with a substantial increase in immune cells, specifically macrophage infiltrates in the adipose tissue which, in turn, secrete a succession of pro-inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, recent studies on microbiota have postulated new possible mechanisms of interaction between obesity and unbalanced nutrition with inflammation. This intestinal "superorganism" complex seems to influence not only the metabolic balance of the host but also the immune response, favoring a state of systemic inflammation and insulin resistance. This review summarizes the major evidence on the interactions between the gut microbiota, energetic metabolism and host immune system, all leading to a convergence of the fields of immunology, nutrients physiology and microbiota in the context of obesity and its possible clinical complications. Finally, possible therapeutic approaches aiming to rebalance the intestinal microbial ecosystem are evaluated to improve the alteration of inflammatory and metabolic states in obesity and related diseases.

The Intake of Antioxidant Capacity of Children Depends on Their Health Status

The gastrointestinal digestion of food and further gut microbial activity render a myriad of different molecules that could be responsible for the biological activities that are classically assigned to their parent compounds. This has been previously shown for some phytochemicals whose antioxidant capacity was either increased or decreased after being metabolized by gut microbes. Whether a global antioxidant capacity that is extracted from food is determined by the gut microbial community structure is still not well described. In the present study, we in vitro digested and fermented 48 different foods that were submitted to different culinary treatments using the stools of lean children, obese children, celiac children and children with an allergy to cow’s milk proteins. Their antioxidant capacities were assessed with the DPPH and FRAP assays, and the percentage that each food contributed to their daily antioxidant intake as well as their antioxidant capacity by portion size was inferred. Overall, cereals, fruits and vegetables displayed a higher contribution to their daily antioxidant intake, while tubers, fish and meat exhibited a higher antioxidant capacity by serving size. The food that was fermented in the lean children’s and those children that were allergic to cow’s milk protein’s fecal material, showed a higher antioxidant capacity, which could imply that there is a larger role of the gut microbiota in this area.

Obesity and critical care nutrition: current practice gaps and directions for future research

Background

This review has been developed following a panel discussion with an international group of experts in the care of patients with obesity in the critical care setting and focuses on current best practices in malnutrition screening and assessment, estimation of energy needs for patients with obesity, the risks and management of sarcopenic obesity, the value of tailored nutrition recommendations, and the emerging role of immunonutrition. Patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) increasingly present with overweight and obesity that require individualized nutrition considerations due to underlying comorbidities, immunological factors such as inflammation, and changes in energy expenditure and other aspects of metabolism. While research continues to accumulate, important knowledge gaps persist in recognizing and managing the complex nutritional needs in ICU patients with obesity. Available malnutrition screening and assessment tools are limited in patients with obesity due to a lack of validation and heterogeneous factors impacting nutrition status in this population. Estimations of energy and protein demands are also complex in patients with obesity and may include estimations based upon ideal, actual, or adjusted body weight. Evidence is still sparse on the role of immunonutrition in patients with obesity, but the presence of inflammation that impacts immune function may suggest a role for these nutrients in hemodynamically stable ICU patients. Educational efforts are needed for all clinicians who care for complex cases of critically ill patients with obesity, with a focus on strategies for optimal nutrition and the consideration of issues such as weight stigma and bias impacting the delivery of care.

Conclusions

Current nutritional strategies for these patients should be undertaken with a focus on individualized care that considers the whole person, including the possibility of preexisting comorbidities, altered metabolism, and chronic stigma, which may impact the provision of nutritional care. Additional research should focus on the applicability of current guidelines and evidence for nutrition therapy in populations with obesity, especially in the setting of critical illness.

Bone matrix quality in a developing high-fat diet mouse model is altered by RAGE deletion

Overweightness and obesity in adolescents are epidemics linked to chronic low-grade inflammation and elevated fracture risk. The increased fracture risk observed in overweight/obese adolescence contrasts the traditional concept that high body mass is protective against fracture, and thus highlights the need to determine why weight gain becomes detrimental to fracture during growth and maturity. The Receptor for Advanced Glycation End products (RAGE) is a central inflammatory regulator that can influence bone metabolism. It remains unknown how RAGE removal impacts skeletal fragility in overweightness/obesity, and whether increased fracture risk in adolescents could result from low-grade inflammation deteriorating bone quality. We characterized the multiscale structural, mechanical, and chemical properties of tibiae extracted from adolescent C57BL/6J (WT) and RAGE null (KO) mice fed either low-fat (LF) or high-fat (HF) diet for 12 weeks starting at 6 weeks of age using micro-computed tomography, strength, Raman spectroscopy, and nanoindentation. Overweight/obese WT HF mice possessed degraded mineral-crystal quality and increased matrix glycoxidation in the form of pentosidine and carboxymethyl-lysine, with HF diet in females only showing reduced cortical surface expansion and TMD independently of RAGE ablation. Furthermore, in contrast to males, HF diet in females led to more material damage and plastic deformation. RAGE KO mitigated glycoxidative matrix accumulation, preserved mineral quantity, and led to increased E/H ratio in females. Taken together, these results highlight the complex, multi-scale and sex-dependent relationships between bone quality and function under overweightness, and identifies RAGE-controlled glycoxidation as a target to potentially preserve matrix quality and mechanical integrity.

Nicotine Exposure during Rodent Pregnancy Alters the Composition of Maternal Gut Microbiota and Abundance of Maternal and Amniotic Short Chain Fatty Acids

Tobacco smoking is the leading cause of preventable death. Numerous reports link smoking in pregnancy with serious adverse outcomes, such as miscarriage, stillbirth, prematurity, low birth weight, perinatal morbidity, and infant mortality. Corollaries of consuming nicotine in pregnancy, separate from smoking, are less explored, and the mechanisms of nicotine action on maternal–fetal communication are poorly understood. This study examined alterations in the maternal gut microbiome in response to nicotine exposure during pregnancy. We report that changes in the maternal gut microbiota milieu are an important intermediary that may mediate the prenatal nicotine exposure effects, affect gene expression, and alter fetal exposure to circulating short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and leptin during in utero development.

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.

Implications of microbe-mediated crosstalk in the gut: Impact on metabolic diseases

Metabolic diseases continue to afflict most of the U.S. population. Advancements in gut microbiota research have led to the discovery of various functional roles of microorganisms that influence the development of obesity and co-morbidities including type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disease. Many mechanisms behind these host-microbe interactions stem from processes involving the intestinal epithelium including lipid metabolism. Thus, the purpose of this review is to discuss gut microbe-mediated changes in intestinal physiology and lipid metabolism that contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disease. Within each disease state, the causal role of bacteria in both driving disease development and protecting against metabolic disease will be discussed.

Relationship between gut microbiome characteristics and the effect of nutritional therapy on glycemic control in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between the characteristics of gut microbiome and the effect of medical nutrition therapy (MNT) on glycemic control in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Seventy-four pregnant women newly diagnosed with GDM received MNT for one-week. The effect of glycemic control was evaluated by fasting and 2-hour postprandial blood glucose; and stool samples of pregnant women were collected to detect the gut microbiome before and after MNT. We used a nested case-control study design, with pregnant women with GDM who did not meet glycemic standards after MNT as the ineffective group and those with an age difference of ≤5 years, matched for pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) 1:1, and meeting glycemic control criteria as the effective group. Comparison of the gut microbiome characteristics before MNT showed that the ineffective group was enriched in Desulfovibrio, Aeromonadales, Leuconostocaceae, Weissella, Prevotella, Bacillales_Incertae Sedis XI, Gemella and Bacillales, while the effective group was enriched in Roseburia, Clostridium, Bifidobacterium, Bifidobacteriales, Bifidobacteriaceae, Holdemania and Proteus. After treatment, the effective group was enriched in Bifidobacterium and Actinomycete, while the ineffective group was enriched in Holdemania, Proteus, Carnobacteriaceae and Granulicatella. In conclusion, the decrease in the abundance of characteristic gut microbiome positively correlated with blood glucose may be a factor influencing the poor hypoglycemic effect of MNT in pregnant women with GDM. Abundance of more characteristic gut microbiome negatively correlated with blood glucose could help control blood glucose in pregnant women with GDM.

n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the regulation of adipose tissue browning and thermogenesis in obesity: Potential relationship with gut microbiota

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a worldwide public health problem characterized by fat tissue accumulation, favouring adipose tissue and metabolic alterations. Increasing energy expenditure (EE) through brown adipose tissue activation and white adipose tissue (WAT) browning has gained relevance as a therapeutic approach. Different bioactive compounds, such as n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), have been shown to induce those thermogenic effects. This process is regulated by the gut microbiota as well. Nevertheless, obesity is characterized by gut microbiota dysbiosis, which can be restored by weight loss and n-3 PUFA intake, among other factors. Knowledge gap: However, the role of the gut microbiota on the n-3 PUFA effect in inducing thermogenesis in obesity has not been fully elucidated.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to elucidate the potential implications of this interrelation on WAT browning adiposw sittue (BAT), BAT activity, and EE regulation in obesity models.

Association between severity of COVID-19 symptoms and habitual food intake in adult outpatients

Objective

To evaluate the association between habitual frequency of food intake of certain food groups during the COVID-19 pandemic and manifestations of COVID-19 symptoms in adult outpatients with suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Design

We included 236 patients who attended an outpatient clinic for suspected COVID-19 evaluation. Severity of symptoms, habitual food intake frequency, demographics and Bristol chart scores were obtained before diagnostic confirmation with real-time reverse transcriptase PCR using nasopharyngeal swab.

Results

The results of the COVID-19 diagnostic tests were positive for 103 patients (44%) and negative for 133 patients (56%). In the SARS-CoV-2-positive group, symptom severity scores had significant negative correlations with habitual intake frequency of specific food groups. Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, sex and occupation confirmed that SARS-CoV-2-positive patients showed a significant negative association between having higher symptom severity and the habitual intake frequency of ‘legumes’ and ‘grains, bread and cereals’.

Conclusions

Increase in habitual frequency of intake of ‘legumes’, and ‘grains, bread and cereals’ food groups decreased overall symptom severity in patients with COVID-19. This study provides a framework for designing a protective diet during the COVID-19 pandemic and also establishes a hypothesis of using a diet-based intervention in the management of SARS-CoV-2 infection, which may be explored in future studies.

First Report of Fecal Microflora of Wild Bar-Headed Goose in Tibet Plateau

The bar-headed goose (Anser indicus) has two black spots on its head. It is considered an important bird in China. It breeds in plateau lakes, especially saltwater lakes, and swamp areas. However, the intestinal flora of wild bar-headed geese in the Tibet Autonomous Region is currently not known. In this study, 16S rDNA sequencing was performed on the intestinal microbes of wild bar-headed geese. A total of 513,505 reads of raw data were obtained, and the results analyzed the average number of 128,376 ± 2,392 reads per sample. The microbiota of all samples consists of 10 main bacterial phyla, including Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Cyanobacteria, Patescibacteria, Deferribacteres, Planctomy-cetes, Fusobacteria, and Tenericutes. The results indicated that Firmicutes (67.34%) was the predominant phylum, followed by Proteobacteria (29.03%) and Cyanobacteria (1.97%). In our research, we identified the intestinal flora of the wild bar-headed goose, which provides valuable information for further research on the gene function of the bar-headed goose and the intestinal flora of wild animals. These findings are also useful and valuable for genetic and high-altitude research in the Tibet Autonomous Region.

Novel Insight into the Mechanism of Metabolic Surgery Causing the Diversity in Glycemic Status in Type 2 Diabetes

Metabolic surgery results in diverse glycemic status in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), including hyperglycemia without remission, significant amelioration of hyperglycemia with partial remission, complete restoration of euglycemia, or with prolonged remission, hyperglycemia recurrence in relapses after remission, or post-bariatric hypoglycemia. Unfortunately, it is not known how metabolic surgery leads to this diverse consequence. Here, we discuss the diversity of glycemic status associated with metabolic surgery and the potential mechanisms of T2D remission. We also highlight the relationship between the change in low-grade inflammation and T2D remission after metabolic surgery. We hypothesize that the level of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines controls the efficacy of metabolic surgery in patients with T2D. This hypothesis may provide further insight into the mechanism of the beneficial effects of metabolic surgery patients with T2D.

Mechanismbased role of the intestinal microbiota in gestational diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Metabolic disorders caused by intestinal microbial dysregulation are considered to be important causes of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Increasing evidence suggests that the diversity and composition of gut microbes are altered in disease states, yet the critical microbes and mechanisms of disease regulation remain unidentified.

Methods

PubMed^® (National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA), Embase^® (Elsevier, Amsterdam, the Netherlands), the Web of Science™ (Clarivate™, Philadelphia, PA, USA), and the Cochrane Library databases were searched to identify articles published between 7 July 2012 and 7 July 2022 reporting on case-control and controlled studies that analyzed differences in enterobacteria between patients with GDM and healthy individuals. Information on the relative abundance of enterobacteria was collected for comparative diversity comparison, and enterobacterial differences were analyzed using random effects to calculate standardized mean differences at a p-value of 5%.

Results

A total of 22 studies were included in this review, involving a total of 965 GDM patients and 1,508 healthy control participants. Alpha diversity did not differ between the participant groups, but beta diversity was significantly different. Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, and Proteobacteria were the dominant bacteria, but there was no significant difference between the two groups. Qualitative analysis showed differences between the groups in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, Blautia, and Collinsella, but these differences were not statistically different.

Conclusion

Enterobacterial profiles were significantly different between the GDM and non-GDM populations. Alpha diversity in patients with GDM is similar to that in healthy people, but beta diversity is significantly different. Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratios were significantly increased in GDM, and this, as well as changes in the abundance of species of Blautia and Collinsella, may be responsible for changes in microbiota diversity. Although the results of our meta-analysis are encouraging, more well-conducted studies are needed to clarify the role of the gut microbiome in GDM. The systematic review was registered with PROSPERO (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/) as CRD42022357391.

Obesity status and obesity-associated gut dysbiosis effects on hypothalamic structural covariance

BACKGROUND

Functional connectivity alterations in the lateral and medial hypothalamic networks have been associated with the development and maintenance of obesity, but the possible impact on the structural properties of these networks remains largely unexplored. Also, obesity-related gut dysbiosis may delineate specific hypothalamic alterations within obese conditions. We aim to assess the effects of obesity, and obesity and gut-dysbiosis on the structural covariance differences in hypothalamic networks, executive functioning, and depressive symptoms.

METHODS

Medial (MH) and lateral (LH) hypothalamic structural covariance alterations were identified in 57 subjects with obesity compared to 47 subjects without obesity. Gut dysbiosis in the subjects with obesity was defined by the presence of high (n = 28) and low (n = 29) values in a BMI-associated microbial signature, and posthoc comparisons between these groups were used as a proxy to explore the role of obesity-related gut dysbiosis on the hypothalamic measurements, executive function, and depressive symptoms.

RESULTS

Structural covariance alterations between the MH and the striatum, lateral prefrontal, cingulate, insula, and temporal cortices are congruent with previously functional connectivity disruptions in obesity conditions. MH structural covariance decreases encompassed postcentral parietal cortices in the subjects with obesity and gut-dysbiosis, but increases with subcortical nuclei involved in the coding food-related hedonic information in the subjects with obesity without gut-dysbiosis. Alterations for the structural covariance of the LH in the subjects with obesity and gut-dysbiosis encompassed increases with frontolimbic networks, but decreases with the lateral orbitofrontal cortex in the subjects with obesity without gut-dysbiosis. Subjects with obesity and gut dysbiosis showed higher executive dysfunction and depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity-related gut dysbiosis is linked to specific structural covariance alterations in hypothalamic networks relevant to the integration of somatic-visceral information, and emotion regulation.

It takes guts to learn: machine learning techniques for disease detection from the gut microbiome

Associations between the human gut microbiome and expression of host illness have been noted in a variety of conditions ranging from gastrointestinal dysfunctions to neurological deficits. Machine learning (ML) methods have generated promising results for disease prediction from gut metagenomic information for diseases including liver cirrhosis and irritable bowel disease, but have lacked efficacy when predicting other illnesses. Here, we review current ML methods designed for disease classification from microbiome data. We highlight the computational challenges these methods have effectively overcome and discuss the biological components that have been overlooked to offer perspectives on future work in this area.

Jaboticaba (Myrciaria jaboticaba) powder consumption improves the metabolic profile and regulates gut microbiome composition in high-fat diet-fed mice

The consumption of a high-fat diet can cause metabolic syndrome and induces host gut microbial dysbiosis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We evaluated the effect of polyphenol-rich jaboticaba peel and seed powder (JPSP) on the gut microbial community composition and liver health in a mouse model of NAFLD. Three-month-old C57BL/6 J male mice, received either a control (C, 10% of lipids as energy, n = 16) or high-fat (HF, 50% of lipids as energy, n = 64) diet for nine weeks. The HF mice were randomly subdivided into four groups (n = 16 in each group), three of which (HF-J5, HF-J10, and HF-J15) were supplemented with dietary JPSP for four weeks (5%, 10%, and 15%, respectively). In addition to attenuating weight gain, JPSP consumption improved dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. In a dose-dependent manner, JPSP consumption ameliorated the expression of hepatic lipogenesis genes (AMPK, SREBP-1, HGMCoA, and ABCG8). The effects on the microbial community structure were determined in all JPSP-supplemented groups; however, the HF-J10 and HF-J15 diets led to a drastic depletion in the species of numerous bacterial families (Bifidobacteriaceae, Mogibacteriaceae, Christensenellaceae, Clostridiaceae, Dehalobacteriaceae, Peptococcaceae, Peptostreptococcaceae, and Ruminococcaceae) compared to the HF diet, some of which represented a reversal of increases associated with HF. The Lachnospiraceae and Enterobacteriaceae families and the Parabacteroides, Sutterella, Allobaculum, and Akkermansia genera were enriched more in the HF-J10 and HF-J15 groups than in the HF group. In conclusion, JPSP consumption improved obesity-related metabolic profiles and had a strong impact on the microbial community structure, thereby reversing NAFLD and decreasing its severity.

Bile Acids as a New Type of Steroid Hormones Regulating Nonspecific Energy Expenditure of the Body (Review)

The review is devoted to the systematization, classification, and generalization of the results of modern scientific research on the role of bile acids as a new class of steroid hormones. The paper presents the evidence for bile acid participation in the regulation of the body energy metabolism, body weight control, as well as the pathogenesis of obesity, diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular diseases.

Particular attention is paid to the role of bile acids in the control of nonspecific energy expenditure of the body. The applied aspects of using the novel data about the membrane and intracellular receptors responsible for the development of hormonal regulatory effects of bile acids are analyzed. According to the authors, the modern data on the role of bile acids in the regulation of body functions allow a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of body weight disorders and associated cardiovascular diseases. The review demonstrates promising directions in the search for specific methods of prevention and correction of these pathological conditions.

Engraftment of strictly anaerobic oxygen-sensitive bacteria in irritable bowel syndrome patients following fecal microbiota transplantation does not improve symptoms

Dysbiosis of the gut microbiome has been correlated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is being explored as a therapeutic option. Little is known of the mechanisms of engraftment of microbes following FMT and whether the engraftment of certain microbes correlate with clinical improvement in IBS. Microbiome data, from a previously reported placebo-controlled trial of treatment of IBS with FMT or placebo capsules, were used to investigate microbial engraftment 15 days, 1, 3 and 6 months after treatment through assessment of gains, losses and changes in abundance of amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) and microbial diversity (CHAO-1 richness) between the FMT group and the placebo group. These data were compared to changes in IBS Symptom Severity Scores (IBS-SSS). Twelve days of treatment with 25 daily multi-donor FMT capsules induced significant short- and long-term changes in the recipients' microbiomes for at least 6 months, with persistent engraftment of a variety of anaerobic bacteria from keystone genera, such as Faecalibacterium, Prevotella and Bacteroides and increased microbial diversity, particularly in patients with low initial diversity. FMT recipients lost ASVs after treatment, which was seen to a much lesser extent in the placebo group. No ASVs increased to a greater extent between FMT responders and non-responders following treatment. Major long-term changes, lasting for at least 6 months, in the gut microbiomes of IBS patients are seen following treatment with FMT capsules. None of these changes correlated with clinical improvement. The relationship between the microbiome and the etiology of IBS still remains unsolved.

Dysbiosis, Host Metabolism, and Non-communicable Diseases: Trialogue in the Inborn Errors of Metabolism

Inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) represent a complex system model, in need of a shift of approach exploring the main factors mediating the regulation of the system, internal or external and overcoming the traditional concept of biochemical and genetic defects. In this context, among the established factors influencing the metabolic flux, i.e., diet, lifestyle, antibiotics, xenobiotics, infectious agents, also the individual gut microbiota should be considered. A healthy gut microbiota contributes in maintaining human health by providing unique metabolic functions to the human host. Many patients with IEMs are on special diets, the main treatment for these diseases. Hence, IEMs represent a good model to evaluate how specific dietary patterns, in terms of macronutrients composition and quality of nutrients, can be related to a characteristic microbiota associated with a specific clinical phenotype (“enterophenotype”). In the present review, we aim at reporting the possible links existing between dysbiosis, a condition reported in IEMs patients, and a pro-inflammatory status, through an altered “gut-liver” cross-talk network and a major oxidative stress, with a repercussion on the health status of the patient, increasing the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). On this basis, more attention should be paid to the nutritional status assessment and the clinical and biochemical signs of possible onset of comorbidities, with the goal of improving the long-term wellbeing in IEMs. A balanced intestinal ecosystem has been shown to positively contribute to patient health and its perturbation may influence the clinical spectrum of individuals with IEMs. For this, reaching eubiosis through the improvement of the quality of dietary products and mixtures, the use of pre-, pro- and postbiotics, could represent both a preventive and therapeutic strategy in these complex diseases.

Supplementation With Lycium barbarum Polysaccharides Reduce Obesity in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice by Modulation of Gut Microbiota

Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) have been proved to prevent obesity and modulate gut microbiota. However, the underlying mechanisms of LBPs’ regulating lipid metabolism remain entirely unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether LBPs are able to modulate the gut microbiota to prevent obesity. The results showed that oral administration of LBPs alleviated dyslipidemia by decreasing the serum levels of total triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and elevating the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in obese mice. Furthermore, LBP treatment decreased the number and size of adipocytes in epididymal adipose tissues and downregulated the expression of adipogenesis-related genes, including acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1, fatty acid synthase, stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1, sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α. 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis showed that LBPs increased the diversity of bacteria, reduced the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, and improved the gut dysbiosis induced by a high-fat diet; for example, LBPs increased the production of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria Lacticigenium, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, and Butyricicoccus. LBPs treatment also increased the content of fecal short-chain fatty acids, including butyric acid. These findings illustrate that LBPs might be developed as a potential prebiotic to improve lipid metabolism and intestinal diseases.

Cudrania tricuspidata Combined with Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Modulate Gut Microbiota and Alleviate Obesity-Associated Metabolic Parameters in Obese Mice

The aim of the presented study was to investigate the synbiotic effects of L. rhamnosus 4B15 and C. tricuspidata extract administration on the gut microbiota and obesity-associated metabolic parameters in diet-induced obese mice. Thirty-one 6-week-old male C57BL/N6 mice were divided into five diet groups: normal diet (ND, n = 7) group; high-fat diet (HFD, n = 6) group; probiotic (PRO, n = 5) group; prebiotic (PRE, n = 7) group; and synbiotic (SYN, n = 6) group. After 10 weeks, the percent of fat mass, serum triglyceride, and ALT levels were significantly reduced in SYN-fed obese mice, compared with other treatments. SYN treatment also modulated the abundance of Desulfovibrio, Dorea, Adlercreutzia, Allobaculum, Coprococcus, unclassified Clostridiaceae, Lactobacillus, Helicobacter, Flexispira, Odoribacter, Ruminococcus, unclassified Erysipelotrichaceae, and unclassified Desulfovibrionaceae. These taxa showed a strong correlation with obesity-associated indices. Lastly, the SYN-supplemented diet upregulated metabolic pathways known to improve metabolic health. Further investigations are needed to understand the mechanisms driving the synbiotic effect of C. tricuspidata and L. rhamnosus 4B15.

A Pilot Microbiota Study in Parkinson's Disease Patients versus Control Subjects, and Effects of FTY720 and FTY720-Mitoxy Therapies in Parkinsonian and Multiple System Atrophy Mouse Models

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) patients often suffer from gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction and GI dysbiosis (microbial imbalance). GI dysfunction also occurs in mouse models of PD and MSA.

OBJECTIVES

To assess gut dysfunction and dysbiosis in PD subjects as compared to controls, identify potential shared microbial taxa in humans and mouse models of PD and MSA, and to assess the effects of potential therapies on mouse GI microbiota.

METHODS

In this human pilot study, GI function was assessed by fecal consistency/frequency measured using the Bristol Stool Form Scale and GI transit time assessed using Sitzmarks pills and abdominal radiology. Human and mouse microbiota were analyzed by extracting fecal genomic DNA followed by 16S rRNA sequencing.

RESULTS

In our PD patients genera Akkermansia significantly increased while a trend toward increased Bifidobacterium and decreased Prevotella was observed. Families Bacteroidaceae and Lachnospiraceae and genera Prevotella and Bacteroides were detected in both humans and PD mice, suggesting potential shared biomarkers. In mice treated with the approved multiple sclerosis drug, FTY720, or with our FTY720-Mitoxy-derivative, we saw that FTY720 had little effect while FTY720-Mitoxy increased beneficial Ruminococcus and decreased Rickenellaceae family.

CONCLUSION

Akkermansia and Prevotellaceae data reported by others were replicated in our human pilot study suggesting the use of those taxa as potential biomarkers for PD diagnosis. The effect of FTY720-Mitoxy on taxa Rikenellaceae and Ruminococcus and the relevance of S24-7 await further evaluation. It also remains to be determined if mouse microbiota have predictive power for human subjects.

Impacts of high fat diet on ocular outcomes in rodent models of visual disease

High fat diets (HFD) have been utilized in rodent models of visual disease for over 50 years to model the effects of lipids, metabolic dysfunction, and diet-induced obesity on vision and ocular health. HFD treatment can recapitulate the pathologies of some of the leading causes of blindness, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) in rodent models of visual disease. However, there are many important factors to consider when using and interpreting these models. To synthesize our current understanding of the importance of lipid signaling, metabolism, and inflammation in HFD-driven visual disease processes, we systematically review the use of HFD in mouse and rat models of visual disease. The resulting literature is grouped into three clusters: models that solely focus on HFD treatment, models of diabetes that utilize both HFD and streptozotocin (STZ), and models of AMD that utilize both HFD and genetic models and/or other exposures. Our findings show that HFD profoundly affects vision, retinal function, many different ocular tissues, and multiple cell types through a variety of mechanisms. We delineate how HFD affects the cornea, lens, uvea, vitreous humor, retina, retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE), and Bruch's membrane (BM). Furthermore, we highlight how HFD impairs several retinal cell types, including glia (microglia), retinal ganglion cells, bipolar cells, photoreceptors, and vascular support cells (endothelial cells and pericytes). However, there are a number of gaps, limitations, and biases in the current literature. We highlight these gaps and discuss experimental design to help guide future studies. Very little is known about how HFD impacts the lens, ciliary bodies, and specific neuronal populations, such as rods, cones, bipolar cells, amacrine cells, and retinal ganglion cells. Additionally, sex bias is an important limitation in the current literature, with few HFD studies utilizing female rodents. Future studies should use ingredient-matched control diets (IMCD), include both sexes in experiments to evaluate sex-specific outcomes, conduct longitudinal metabolic and visual measurements, and capture acute outcomes. In conclusion, HFD is a systemic exposure with profound systemic effects, and rodent models are invaluable in understanding the impacts on visual and ocular disease.