Integrated study of metabolomics and gut metabolic activity from ulcerative colitis to colorectal cancer: The combined action of disordered gut microbiota and linoleic acid metabolic pathway might fuel cancer

Paeoniflorin alleviates DSS-induced ulcerative colitis by suppressing inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis via regulating serum metabolites and inhibiting CDC42/JNK signaling pathway

Ulcerative colitis (UC) poses a threat to human health. The present study attempts to unravel the efficacy and potential mechanisms of paeoniflorin (PF), a naturally sourced active ingredient, for the management of UC. By establishing a DSS (dextran sulphate sodium)-induced experimental rat model of UC, this study found that PF was effective in ameliorating UC symptoms, inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis, and repairing colonic epithelial damage. In addition, metabolomics revealed that PF may alleviate UC by primarily improving linoleic acid metabolism. Mechanistically, PF inhibited the CDC42/JNK signaling pathway by targeting CDC42. In particular, HuProtTM20K proteomics, molecular docking and MST revealed that PF is a novel CDC42 inhibitor. In LPS-treated Caco-2 cells, PF similarly inhibited oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis and down-regulated the CDC42/JNK signaling pathway. Overall, PF inhibits oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis and repairs colonic epithelial damage through modulation of serum metabolites and inhibition of the CDC42/JNK signaling pathway, leading to alleviation of UC.

LC-MS analysis of chiral amino acids in human urine reveals D-amino acids as potential biomarkers for colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor in the gastrointestinal tract. Changes in amino acid metabolites have been implicated in tumorigenesis and disease progression. Biomarkers on the basis of chiral amino acids, especially D-amino acids, have not been established for early diagnosis of CRC. Quantification of chiral amino acids, especially very low concentrations of endogenous D-amino acids, is technically challenging. We report here the quantification of L- and D-amino acids in urine samples collected from 115 CRC patients and 155 healthy volunteers, using an improved method. The method of chiral labeling, liquid chromatography, and tandem mass spectrometry enabled separation and detection of 28 amino acids (14 L-amino acids, 13 D-amino acids and Gly). Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis identified 14 targeted variables among these chiral amino acids that distinguished the CRC from the healthy controls. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that D-α-aminobutyric acid (D-AABA), L-alanine (L-Ala), D-alanine (D-Ala), D-glutamine (D-Gln) and D-serine (D-Ser) could be potential biomarkers for CRC. A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of combined multi-variables contributed to an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.995 with 98.3 % sensitivity and 96.8 % specificity. A model constructed with D-AABA, D-Ala, D-Gln, and D-Ser achieved an AUC of 0.988, indicating important contributions of D-amino acids to the association with CRC. Further analysis also demonstrated that the metabolic aberration was associated with age and the development of CRC, D-methionine (D-Met) was decreased in CRC patients with age over 50, and D/L-Gln in patients at stage IV was higher than patients at stage I. This study provides the signature of D-amino acids in urine samples and offers a promising strategy for developing non-invasive diagnosis of CRC.

Magnoflorine alleviates dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis via inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Magnoflorine (Mag), a natural alkaloid component originating from the Ranunculaceae Juss. Family, has a various of pharmacological activities. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects and potential mechanism of Mag on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) based on comprehensive approaches. Therapeutic effects of Mag on 3% DSS-induced UC mice were analyzed. UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS was performed to investigate the potential metabolites and signaling pathway of Mag on DSS-induced UC. Furthermore, the predicted mRNA and protein levels of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in colon tissue were verified and assessed by qRT-PCR and Western Blotting, respectively. Therapeutic effects of Mag on UC mice were presented in down-regulation serum biochemical indices, alleviating histological damage of colon tissue. Serum untargeted metabolomics analysis showed that the potential mechanism of Mag on UC is mainly associated with the regulation of six biomarkers and 11 pathways, which may be responsible for the therapeutic efficacy of UC. The "component-metabolites-targets" interactive network indicated that Mag exerts its anti-UC effect by regulating PTGS1 and PTGS2, thereby regulating arachidonic acid. Moreover, the results of qRT-PCR showed that Mag could substantially decrease the relative mRNA expression level of Hub genes. In addition, it was found that Mag could inhibit the relative mRNA and protein expression of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. The present results highlighted the role of Mag ameliorated colon injury in DSS-induced UC mice by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. These results suggest that Mag may be an effective agent for the treatment of UC.

High Cannabigerol Hemp Extract Moderates Colitis and Modulates the Microbiome in an Inflammatory Bowel Disease Model

Cannabis sativa L. has a long history of medicinal use, particularly for gastrointestinal diseases. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) report using cannabis to manage their symptoms, despite little data to support the use of cannabis or cannabis products to treat the disease. In this study, we use the well-described dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) model of colitis in mice to assess the impact of commercially available, noneuphorigenic, high cannabigerol (CBG) hemp extract (20 mg/mL cannabigerol, 20.7 mg/mL cannabidiol, 1 mg/mL cannabichromene) on IBD activity and the colonic microbiome. Mice were given 2% DSS in drinking water for 5 days, followed by 2 days of regular drinking water. Over the 7 days, mice were dosed daily with either high CBG hemp extract or matched vehicle control. Daily treatment with high CBG hemp extract dramatically reduces the severity of disease at the histological and organismal levels as measured by decreased disease activity index, increased colon length, and decreases in percent colon tissue damage. 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the fecal microbiota reveals high CBG hemp extract treatment results in alterations in the microbiota that may be beneficial for colitis. Finally, using metabolomic analysis of fecal pellets, we find that mice treated with high CBG hemp extract have a normalization of several metabolic pathways, including those involved in inflammation. Taken together, these data suggest that high CBG hemp extracts may offer a novel treatment option for patients. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Using the dextran sodium sulfate model of colitis, the authors show that treatment with high cannabigerol hemp extract reduces the severity of symptoms associated with colitis. Additionally, they show that treatment modulates both the fecal microbiota and metabolome with potential functional significance.

Metabolic profile of Phellodendron amurense Rupr. in vivo of rat and its metabolomic study on intervention in rheumatoid arthritis

To analyze the metabolites (blood, urine and feces) in normal rats after intragastric administration of the decoction of Phellodendri Amurensis Cortex (PAC) and to map the metabolic profile of PAC in vivo of rat; meanwhile, to evaluate the anti-rheumatoid arthritis (RA) effect of PAC by blood metabolomics technique and to explore its mechanism. Performing on UPLC-Q-TOF-MS technology with a Waters ACQUITY UPLC BEH-C18 column (100 mm × 2.1 mm, 1.7 μm), the mobile phase was acetonitrile-0.1% formic acid aqueous solution (gradient elution). Prior to and following the administration of the decoction of PAC, the samples of blood, urine, and fecal were collected from the rats, in the positive ion mode, pharmacogenic metabolites in each biological sample were identified according to the accurate mass, fragment ions, retention time, metabolic reaction type, comparison of reference substance and retrieval of Pub Med database; The adjuvant-type arthritis (AA) rat model was established, and blood metabonomics method was used to study the improvement effect of rheumatoid arthritis after drug intervention with PAC, and its mechanism was preliminarily explored through analysis of metabolic pathway. A total of 72 exogenous components were identified, including 17 prototype components and 55 metabolites; 14 biomarkers were screened by blood metabolomics techniques combined with multivariate statistical analysis, and PAC significantly improved symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in rats, and the metabolic pathway analysis mainly involves 5 metabolic pathways. The components in the aqueous decoction of PAC mainly undergo phase I metabolic reactions in rats, such as oxidation, reduction, dehydrogenation, demethylation, and phase II metabolic reactions, such as acetylation, glucuronidation, methylation; PAC has anti-rheumatoid arthritis effects, and its mechanism of action may be related to biosynthesis of aminoacyl-tRNA, metabolism of phenylalanine, metabolism of tryptophan, degradation of valine, leucine and isoleucine and biosynthesis of pantothenic acid and coenzyme A, providing a scientific basis for the study of the pharmacodynamic substances and the action mechanism of PAC against RA.

Characterization of the chemical composition of different parts of Dolichos lablab L. and revelation of its anti-ulcerative colitis effects by modulating the gut microbiota and host metabolism

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a non-specific inflammatory disease characterized by long duration and easy relapse. Dolichos lablab L. (DLL) belongs to the family Fabaceae, was listed in a famous Chinese medical classic, Compendium of Materia Medic, and described as possessing features that invigorate the spleen, alleviate dampness, provide diarrhea relief, and other effects. The DLL-dried white mature seeds (DS) and dried flower (DF), which hold significant medicinal value in China, were used in clinical prescriptions to prevent and treat UC. DS and DF have appeared in different editions of the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China from 1977 to 2020. However, their chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and mechanism of treating UC are unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to characterize the chemical composition of different parts of DLL (seeds and flowers), further explore their pharmacological effects, and elaborate its underlying mechanism of treating UC.

METHODS

The chemical composition of DS and DF crude polysaccharides (DSP and DFP) and ethanolic extracts (DSE and DFE) were characterized by high-performance anion-exchange chromatography (HPAEC), ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Then, based on the acute UC mice model, the pharmacodynamic effects were investigated by Western blotting, ELISA, and other methods. Finally, the 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metabonomic analysis were used to explore the regulatory effects of DS and DF on intestinal microbiota and host metabolism.

RESULTS

DSE and DFE inhibited the oxidative stress response, reducing proinflammatory factor production and maintaining intestinal barrier integrity in UC mice. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metabonomic analysis revealed that DS and DF treated UC by regulating the intestinal microbiota structure and reversing the abnormal metabolism of the host.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that different parts of DLL (flowers and seeds) may be potential medicines for treating UC, which exert their therapeutic effects through various active ingredients and might contribute significantly to reducing the economic pressures and challenges of UC treatment worldwide.

Development of fatty acid metabolism score based on gene signature for predicting prognosis and immunotherapy response in colon cancer

PURPOSE

Metabolic reprogramming is a novel hallmark and therapeutic target of cancer. Our study aimed to establish fatty acid metabolism-associated scores based on gene signature and investigated its effects on immunotherapy in colon cancer.

METHODS

Gene expression and clinical information were collected from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to identify a gene signature by non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) clustering and Cox regression analysis. Subsequently, we constructed the fatty acid metabolism score (FA-score) model by principal component analysis (PCA) and explored its relativity of prognosis and the response to immunotherapy in colon cancer. Finally, the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was introduced and in vitro study was performed for verification.

RESULTS

The FA-score-high group had a higher level of fatty acid metabolism and was associated with worse patient overall survival. Significantly, FA-score correlated closely with the biomarkers of immunotherapy, and the FA-score-high group had a poorer therapeutic efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade. In vitro experiments demonstrated that ACSL5 may be a critical metabolic regulatory target.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provided a comprehensive analysis of the heterogeneity of fatty acid metabolism in colon cancer. We highlighted the potential clinical utility of fatty acid metabolism-related genes to be biomarkers of colon cancer prognosis and targets to improve the effect of immunotherapy.

Untargeted metabolomics of the intestinal tract of DEV-infected ducks

INTRODUCTION

Duck enteritis virus (DEV) mainly causes infectious diseases characterized by intestinal haemorrhage, inflammation and parenchymal organ degeneration in ducks and other poultry. However, the mechanism by which it causes intestinal damage in ducks is not well understood. Metabolomics can provide an in-depth understanding of the full complexity of the disease.

METHODS

In this study, 24 clinically healthy green-shell ducks (weight 1.5 kg ± 20 g) were randomly divided into 2 groups (experimental group, 18; control group, 6). The experimental group was intramuscularly injected with 0.2 mL of DEV virus in solution (TCID50 3.16 × 108 PFU/mL), and the control group was injected with 0.2 mL of sterile normal saline. Duck duodenum and ileum tissue samples were collected at 66 h, 90 h and 114 h post-injection (12 h of fasting before killing), and metabolomics analysis of duck duodenum and ileum tissues at the three time points (66, 90, 114 h) was performed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to screen for and analyse the potential differentiated metabolites and related signalling pathways.

RESULTS

Screening was performed in the positive/negative mode (Pos: Positive ion mode; the ionization of substances at the ion source with positive ions such as H+, NH4+, Na+ and K+; Neg: Negative ion mode; the ionization of substances at the ion source with negative ions such as Cl-, OAc-), and compound abundance was compared to that in the control group. The total number of differentially abundant compounds in the duodenum at 66 h, 90 h and 114 h of DEV infection gradually increased, and metabolites such as cytidine, 2'-deoxyriboside and 4-guanidinobutyric acid were differentially abundant metabolites common to all three time periods. The metabolic pathways related to inflammatory response and immune response were tryptophan acid metabolism, cysteine-methionine metabolism, histidine metabolism and other amino acid metabolism and fat metabolism. Among them, the metabolic pathways with more differentially abundant metabolites were amino acid biosynthesis, cysteine and methionine metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis and purine metabolism, and the metabolic pathways with more enrichment factors were the IgA-related intestinal immune network pathway and lysosome pathway. Compared with the control group, there were 16 differentially abundant metabolites in the ileum tissue of DEV-infected ducks at 66 h of infection, 52 at 90 h of infection, and 40 at 14 h of infection with TD114. The metabolic pathways with more enriched differentially abundant metabolites were pyrimidine metabolism, tyrosine metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism and tryptophan biosynthesis. The metabolic pathways with the most enrichment factors were the mTOR signalling pathway, ferroptosis pathway, tryptophan metabolism pathway and caffeine metabolism pathway.

CONCLUSION

Comparative analysis showed that the number of differentially abundant metabolites in the duodenum and ileum differed to some extent after DEV infection, with significantly more differentially abundant metabolites in duodenal tissues and fewer in ileal tissues; after DEV infection, the highest number of differentially abundant metabolites was obtained at 114 h of DEV infection, followed by the second highest at 90 h of infection and the lowest at 66 h of infection. The common differentially abundant metabolites in duodenal and ileal tissues were prostaglandins, arachidonic acid, and arachidonic ethanolamine. The main metabolic pathways in the duodenum were the IgA-associated intestinal immune network pathway and the lysosomal pathway, and the metabolic pathways with more enriched factors in the ileum were the mTOR signalling pathway, the ferroptosis pathway, and the tryptophan metabolism pathway.

Epigenetic and metabolic reprogramming in inflammatory bowel diseases: diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND AND AIM

"Inflammatory bowel disease" (IBD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory disease of the intestinal tract that typically begins at a young age and might transit to colorectal cancer (CRC). In this manuscript, we discussed the epigenetic and metabolic change to present a extensive view of IBDs transition to CRC. This study discusses the possible biomarkers for evaluating the condition of IBDs patients, especially before the transition to CRC.

RESEARCH APPROACH

We searched "PubMed" and "Google Scholar" using the keywords from 2000 to 2022.

DISCUSSION

In this manuscript, interesting titles associated with IBD and CRC are discussed to present a broad view regarding the epigenetic and metabolic reprogramming and the biomarkers.

CONCLUSION

Epigenetics can be the main reason in IBD transition to CRC, and Hypermethylation of several genes, such as VIM, OSM4, SEPT9, GATA4 and GATA5, NDRG4, BMP3, ITGA4 and plus hypomethylation of LINE1 can be used in IBD and CRC management. Epigenetic, metabolisms and microbiome-derived biomarkers, such as Linoleic acid and 12 hydroxy 8,10-octadecadienoic acid, Serum M2-pyruvate kinase and Six metabolic genes (NAT2, XDH, GPX3, AKR1C4, SPHK and ADCY5) expression are valuable biomarkers for early detection and transition to CRC condition. Some miRs, such as miR-31, miR-139-5p, miR -155, miR-17, miR-223, miR-370-3p, miR-31, miR -106a, miR -135b and miR-320 can be used as biomarkers to estimate IBD transition to CRC condition.

Maternal Diet Determines Milk Microbiome Composition and Offspring Gut Colonization in Wistar Rats

Mother's milk contains a unique microbiome that plays a relevant role in offspring health. We hypothesize that maternal malnutrition during lactation might impact the microbial composition of milk and affect adequate offspring gut colonization, increasing the risk for later onset diseases. Then, Wistar rats were fed ad libitum (Control, C) food restriction (Undernourished, U) during gestation and lactation. After birth, offspring feces and milk stomach content were collected at lactating day (L)4, L14 and L18. The V3-V4 region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene was sequenced to characterize bacterial communities. An analysis of beta diversity revealed significant disparities in microbial composition between groups of diet at L4 and L18 in both milk, and fecal samples. In total, 24 phyla were identified in milk and 18 were identified in feces, with Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteroidota and Bacteroidota collectively representing 96.1% and 97.4% of those identified, respectively. A higher abundance of Pasteurellaceae and Porphyromonas at L4, and of Gemella and Enterococcus at L18 were registered in milk samples from the U group. Lactobacillus was also significantly more abundant in fecal samples of the U group at L4. These microbial changes compromised the number and variety of milk-feces or feces-feces bacterial correlations. Moreover, increased offspring gut permeability and an altered expression of goblet cell markers TFF3 and KLF3 were observed in U pups. Our results suggest that altered microbial communication between mother and offspring through breastfeeding may explain, in part, the detrimental consequences of maternal malnutrition on offspring programming.

Fatty acids and lipid mediators in inflammatory bowel disease: from mechanism to treatment

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. Though the pathogenesis of IBD remains unclear, diet is increasingly recognized as a pivotal factor influencing its onset and progression. Fatty acids, essential components of dietary lipids, play diverse roles in IBD, ranging from anti-inflammatory and immune-regulatory functions to gut-microbiota modulation and barrier maintenance. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), products of indigestible dietary fiber fermentation by gut microbiota, have strong anti-inflammatory properties and are seen as key protective factors against IBD. Among long-chain fatty acids, saturated fatty acids, trans fatty acids, and ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids exhibit pro-inflammatory effects, while oleic acid and ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids display anti-inflammatory actions. Lipid mediators derived from polyunsaturated fatty acids serve as bioactive molecules, influencing immune cell functions and offering both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory benefits. Recent research has also highlighted the potential of medium- and very long-chain fatty acids in modulating inflammation, mucosal barriers, and gut microbiota in IBD. Given these insights, dietary intervention and supplementation with short-chain fatty acids are emerging as potential therapeutic strategies for IBD. This review elucidates the impact of various fatty acids and lipid mediators on IBD and delves into potential therapeutic avenues stemming from these compounds.

Gut Microbial and Associated Metabolite Markers for Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis

Globally, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cause of mortality worldwide. Considerable evidence indicates that dysbiosis of the gut microbial community and its metabolite secretions play a fundamental role in advanced adenoma (ADA) and CRC development and progression. This study is a systematic review that aims to assess the clinical association between gut microbial markers and/or gut and circulating metabolites with ADA and CRC. Five electronic databases were searched by four independent reviewers. Only controlled trials that compared ADA and/or CRC with healthy control (HC) using either untargeted (16s rRNA gene or whole genome sequencing) or targeted (gene-based real-time PCR) identification methods for gut microbiome profile, or untargeted or targeted metabolite profiling approaches from the gut or serum/plasma, were eligible. Three independent reviewers evaluated the quality of the studies using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Twenty-four studies were eligible. We identified strong evidence of two microbial markers Fusobacterium and Porphyromonas for ADA vs. CRC, and nine microbial markers Lachnospiraceae-Lachnoclostridium, Ruminococcaceae-Ruminococcus, Parvimonas spp., Parvimonas micra, Enterobacteriaceae, Fusobacterium spp., Bacteroides, Peptostreptococcus-Peptostreptococcus stomatis, Clostridia spp.-Clostridium hylemonae, Clostridium symbiosum, and Porphyromonas-Porphyromonas asaccharolytica for CRC vs. HC. The remaining metabolite marker evidence between the various groups, including ADA vs. HC, ADA vs. HC, and CRC vs. HC, was not of sufficient quality to support additional findings. The identified gut microbial markers can be used in a panel for diagnosing ADA and/or CRC. Further research in the metabolite markers area is needed to evaluate the possibility to use in diagnostic or prognostic markers for colorectal cancer.

The effect of FTO gene rs9939609 polymorphism on the association between colorectal cancer and different types of dietary fat intake: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in the world. Some dietary factors such as fat intake have been identified as the risk factors for CRC. This study aimed to investigate the effect of fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene rs9939609 polymorphism on the association between CRC and different types of dietary fats.

METHODS

This case-control study was performed on 135 CRC cases and 294 healthy controls in Tehran, Iran. Data on demographic factors, anthropometric measurements, physical activity, the intake of different types of dietary fats, and FTO gene rs9939609 polymorphism was collected from all participants. The association between cancer and dietary fat intake in individuals with different FTO genotypes was assessed using different models of logistic regression.

RESULTS

Oleic acid intake was higher in the case group compared to the control group in both people with TT (7.2±3.46 vs. 5.83±3.06 g/d, P=0.02) and AA/AT genotypes (8.7±6.23 vs. 5.57 ±3.2 g/d, P<0.001). Among carriers of AA/AT genotypes of FTO rs9939609 polymorphism, a positive association was found between CRC and higher intakes of oleic acid (OR=1.12, CI95% 1.03-1.21, P=0.01) and cholesterol (OR=1.01, CI95% 1.00-1.02; P=0.01) after adjusting for age, sex, physical activity, alcohol use, smoking, calorie intake, and body mass index.

CONCLUSION

Higher intakes of cholesterol and oleic acid were associated with a higher risk of CRC in FTO-risk allele carriers. The association of CRC and dietary fat may be influenced by the FTO genotype. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Mushroom polysaccharides from Grifola frondosa (Dicks.) Gray and Inonotus obliquus (Fr.) Pilat ameliorated dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice by global modulation of systemic metabolism and the gut microbiota

Introduction: Polysaccharides from Grifola frondosa (Dicks.) Gray (HSH) and Inonotus obliquus (Fr.) Pilat (BHR) showed noticeable effects on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis, but their systemic modulation effects have not been fully revealed. This study aimed to investigate the regulation of the gut microbiota and systemic metabolism by HSH and BHR in DSS-induced colitis. Methods: C57BL/6J mice were given DSS (2.5%) in water and were treated with HSH and BHR (200 mg/kg/day) by gavage. Body weight and colon length were recorded, and H&E and AB-PAS staining of the colon were conducted to evaluate the model and the protective effect of the polysaccharides. Additionally, an LC-QTOF/MS-based untargeted metabolomic platform was used to identify the metabolites in the serum, colon tissue, gut contents, and faeces and investigate differential metabolites and metabolic pathways. 16S rDNA gene sequencing was used to measure the composition of bacterial communities. Results: The results showed that the mouse colitis model was established successfully, as evidenced by an increased disease activity index score [2.83 ± 0.62 vs. 0.06 ± 0.14 (p < 0.001)] and shortened colon length [5.43 ± 0.64 cm vs. 7.04 ± 0.29 cm (p < 0.001)], and HSH and BHR ameliorated DSS-induced colitis by improving the disease activity index (2.17 ± 0.28 and 1.83 ± 0.29, respectively) and restoring the colon length (6.12 ± 0.30 cm and 6.62 ± 0.35 cm, respectively). HSH and BHR significantly modulated metabolites involved in aromatic amino acid metabolism, the citrate cycle, purine metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, etc. HSH and BHR increased the Chao1 index by 64.25% and 60.25%, respectively, and they increased the Shannon index by 13.02% and 10.23%, respectively. They both reversed the increase in the abundances of g_Odoribacter, g_Clostridium, g_AF12, g_Parabacteroides and g_Turicibacter and reversed the decrease in the abundance of g_unclassified_Bacteria induced by DSS. Specifically, HSH reversed the reductions in g_unclassified_Lactobacillales and g_Ruminococcus, and BHR reversed the decreases in g_unidentified_Coriobacteriaceae and g_unclassified_Firmicutes. Discussion: These results suggested that HSH and BHR may ameliorate DSS-induced colitis by global modulation of systemic metabolism and the gut microbiota. Targeting the gut microbiota may be a potentially effective strategy to modulate systemic metabolism and treat colitis.

The San-Qi-Xue-Shang-Ning formula protects against ulcerative colitis by restoring the homeostasis of gut immunity and microbiota

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality due to repetitive remissions and relapses, and many severe complications, including colitis-associated cancer (CAC). The San-Qi-Xue-Shang-Ning (SQ) formula has been utilized in clinical practice to treat gut diseases, but its pharmacological evidence is limited and awaits elucidation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Here, we elucidated the molecular mechanisms of the SQ formula.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Its therapeutic value in combating UC and CAC was predicted from network pharmacology and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Experimental colitis models were established by feeding dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) to C57BL/6N mice for 7 days, and they were subjected to the SQ formula for 14 days. High-throughput technologies and biochemical investigations were executed to corroborate the anti-colitis effect.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology and WGCNA demonstrated that the targets of the SQ formula were associated with interleukin-17 (IL-17), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), IL-1b and peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathways, and correlated with the survival in patients with colorectal cancer. In mice with colitis, the SQ treatment hindered colitis progression in a dose-dependent manner, as evidenced by the rescued colon length and weight loss, improved colonic epithelial integrity, and abolished crypt loss. In addition to the suppressed serum IL-17, TNFα, and IL-1b levels, the SQ-treated colitis mice exhibited decreased colonic protein abundance of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1 α), PPARα, and Caspase3 (Casp3) with an increased PPARγ expression. Concurrently, the high dose of SQ promoted the alternative activation of peritoneal macrophages by increasing Arg1 and inhibiting iNOS2, thereby facilitating the migration of NCM460 cells and controlling TNF-induced reactive oxygen species production and apoptosis in intestinal organoids. In colitis-accompanied dysbiosis, the SQ formula reversed the decreased microbiota diversity indexes and restored the microbiome profile in the murine colitis models.

CONCLUSION

The SQ formula is a potent anti-colitis drug that facilitates inflammation resolution and restores gut microbiota homeostasis.

The Wu-Shi-Cha formula protects against ulcerative colitis by orchestrating immunity and microbiota homeostasis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) has become a healthy burden worldwide due to its insidious onset and repetitive relapse, with a rather complex etiology, including inappropriate immune response, dysbiosis, genetic susceptibility, and unhealthy diets. The Wu-Shi-Cha (WSC) formula is a widely utilized drug to protect against gastrointestinal disorders.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study aspired to dissect the pertinent mechanisms of the WSC to treat UC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Network pharmacology and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were performed to predict the targets of WSC in the context of UC and colorectal cancer. Dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) was used to construct murine models of experimental colitis, and the WSC was given to colitis mice for 14 days. Feces and colon samples were subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing combined with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and biochemical experiments, respectively.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology analysis predicted that the WSC formula could orchestrate inflammation, infection, and tumorigenesis, and WGCNA based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database showed a potent anti-neoplastic effect of the WSC therapy for colorectal cancer. The WSC therapy rescued bursts of pro-inflammatory cytokines and colonic epithelial collapse in DSS-induced colitis mice. Moreover, the high dose of WSC treatment facilitated the alternative activation of peritoneal macrophages (Mφs) and these Mφs were conducive to the survival of intestinal stem cells (ISCs), and the disturbed homeostasis of gut microbiota was re-established after WSC treatment, as evidenced by the decreased colonization of pathological taxa in the fecal samples.

CONCLUSION

The WSC formula suppresses inflammation and re-establishes the homeostasis of gut microbiota, thereby ameliorating colitis progression.

Preventive effect of Ya'an Tibetan tea on obesity in rats fed with a hypercaloric high-fat diet revealed by gut microbiology and metabolomics studies

Ya'an Tibetan Tea (YATT) is a classic dark tea variety fermented with a unique geographical environment and traditional craftsmanship. Previous research indicates that it is beneficial for obesity and related metabolic disorders, but no systematic research currently reveals its precise mechanisms. This work investigated the preventive effect of YATT on obesity and the corresponding potential mechanisms by performing 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metabolomics studies. Our results demonstrated that YATT could significantly improve the body weight and fat deposition in hypercaloric high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats, enhance antioxidant enzymes activity and reduce inflammation, and reverse the liver damage caused by an HFD. Moreover, 16S rRNA analysis showed that YATT could improve the intestinal microbial disorders caused by the HFD by significantly reversing the increase in Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes（F/B）ratio and the relative abundance of flora associated with the HFD, such as unclassified_Lachnospiraceae and Romboutsia flora. In addition, metabolomic analysis of cecum contents identified 121 differential metabolites, of which 19 were common to all experimental rats fed with and without a high-fat diet. Strikingly, 17 of the most prevalent 19 differential metabolites, including Theobromine, L-Valine, and Diisobutyl phthalate, were considerably reversed by YATT. Enrichment analysis of the metabolic pathways of these differential metabolites indicated that Caffeine metabolism, Phenylalanine metabolism, and Lysine degradation are the potential metabolic pathways responsible for the obesity prevention effect of YATT. Collectively, this work revealed that YATT has good potential for obesity prevention and the improvement of intestinal microbial communities, potentially due to the YATT-induced alterations in the metabolic pathways and functional metabolite levels of caffeine and amino acids. These results inform the material basis of YATT for obesity prevention and its mechanisms and provide essential insights for developing YATT as a healthy beverage for obesity prevention.

The pharmacological validation of the Xiao-Jian-Zhong formula against ulcerative colitis by network pharmacology integrated with metabolomics

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is pathologically characterized by an immune response accommodative insufficiency and dysbiosis accompanied by persistent epithelial barrier dysfunction, and is divided into ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Its progression increases the susceptibility to colitis-associated cancer (CAC), as well as other complications. The Xiao-Jian-Zhong (XJZ) formula has a historical application in the clinic to combat gastrointestinal disorders.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The investigation aimed to explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms of XJZ.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) was diluted in drinking water and given to mice for a week to establish murine models of experimental colitis, and the XJZ solution was administered for two weeks. Network pharmacology analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were utilized to predict the therapeutic role of XJZ against UC and CAC. 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics were conducted utilizing murine feces to examine the changes in the microbiome profile. Biochemical experiments were conducted to confirm the predicted functions.

RESULTS

XJZ treatment markedly attenuated DSS-induced experimental colitis progression, and the targets were enriched in inflammation, infection, and tumorigenesis, predicted by network pharmacology analysis. Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, the XJZ-targets were related to the survival probability in patients with colorectal cancer, underlying a potential therapeutic value in cancer intervention. Moreover, the XJZ therapy successfully rescued the decreased richness and diversity of microbiota, suppressed the potentially pathogenic phenotype of the gut microorganisms, and reversed the declined linoleic acid metabolism and increased cytochrome P450 activity in murine colitis models. Our in-vitro experiments confirmed that the XJZ treatment suppressed Caspase1-dependent pyroptosis and increased peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor-γ(PPAR-γ) expression in the colon, facilitated the alternative activation of macrophages (Mφs), inhibited tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα)-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in intestinal organoids (IOs), thereby favoring the mucosal healing.

CONCLUSION

The XJZ formula is efficacious for colitis by a prompt resolution of inflammation and dysbiosis, and by re-establishing a microbiome profile that favors re-epithelization, and prevents carcinogenesis.

Fructus ligustri lucidi suppresses inflammation and restores the microbiome profile in murine colitis models

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is pathologically characterized by an inappropriate immune response to the gut commensal microbes accompanied by persistent epithelial barrier dysfunction, and its progression increases the susceptibility to colitis-associated cancer (CAC), as well as other complications. Fructus ligustri lucidi (FLL) has a long historical application in traditional Chinese medicine due to its various pharmacological effects, including antioxidation and anti-inflammation. The present study aimed to explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms of FLL in treating colitis.

METHODS

A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) combined with ultraviolet (UV) was performed to validate the quality of FLL; Network pharmacology analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database predicted the therapeutic value of FLL against UC and CAC; 2% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) was administered to mice to establish murine models of experimental colitis, and FLL was given for the next 14 days at different concentrations; 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics were performed on fecal samples to delineate the alteration in microbiome profile; Western blotting, flow cytometry, and immunocytochemistry experiments were conducted to confirm the predicted cellular mechanisms.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology analysis and WGCNA predicted that the targets of the FLL were associated with the progression of UC and the survival of patients with colorectal cancer by regulating tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and IL-17 signaling pathways, immune cell functions, responses to bacterial and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and cell proliferation. In vivo experiments corroborated that the high dose of FLL significantly attenuated the progression of experimental colitis by reversing the weight loss and bloody stool, reconstructing the integrity of colorectal epithelium, and suppressing the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, FLL treatment reduced the transition of macrophages (Mφs) to the proinflammatory phenotype and promoted Mφs-regulated wound healing, and suppressed the production of ROS in intestinal organoids (IOs) and crypts. 16S rRNA and untargeted metabolomics showed that the administration of FLL inhibited DSS-caused colonization of the potentially pathogenic gut microorganisms and reversed DSS-influenced metabolic profile.

CONCLUSION

FLL is a potent anti-colitis drug by suppressing inflammation and rescuing dysbiosis.

The Cao-Xiang-Wei-Kang formula attenuates the progression of experimental colitis by restoring the homeostasis of the microbiome and suppressing inflammation

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is pathologically characterized by an immune response accommodative insufficiency and dysbiosis accompanied by persistent epithelial barrier dysfunction. The Cao-Xiang-Wei-Kang (CW) formula has been utilized to treat gastrointestinal disorders in the clinic. The present study was designed to delineate the pharmacological mechanisms of this formula from different aspects of the etiology of ulcerative colitis (UC), a major subtype of IBD. Dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) was given to mice for a week at a concentration of 2%, and the CW solution was administered for 3 weeks. 16S rRNA gene sequencing and untargeted metabolomics were conducted to examine the changes in the microbiome profile, and biochemical experiments were performed to confirm the therapeutic functions predicted by system pharmacology analysis. The CW treatment hampered DSS-induced experimental colitis progression, and the targets were enriched in inflammation, infection, and tumorigenesis, which was corroborated by suppressed caspase 3 (Casp3) and interleukin-1b (IL-1b) and increased cleaved caspase 3 expression and casp-3 activity in the colon samples from colitis mice subjected to the CW therapy. Moreover, the CW therapy rescued the decreased richness and diversity, suppressed the potentially pathogenic phenotype of the gut microorganisms, and reversed the altered linoleic acid metabolism and cytochrome P450 activity in murine colitis models. In our in vitro experiments, the CW administration increased the alternative activation of macrophages (Mφs) and inhibited the tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα)-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and subsequent death in intestinal organoids (IOs). We propose that the CW formula alleviates the progression of murine colitis by suppressing inflammation, promoting mucosal healing, and re-establishing a microbiome profile that favors re-epithelization.

A Comprehensive Analysis of Microflora and Metabolites in the Development of Ulcerative Colitis into Colorectal Cancer Based on the Lung–Gut Correlation Theory

The lungs and large intestine can co-regulate inflammation and immunity through the lung–gut axis, in which the transportation of the gut microbiota and metabolites is the most important communication channel. In our previous study, not only did the composition of the gut microbiota and metabolites related to inflammation change significantly during the transition from ulcerative colitis (UC) to colorectal cancer (CRC), but the lung tissues also showed corresponding inflammatory changes, which indicated that gastrointestinal diseases can lead to pulmonary diseases. In order to elucidate the mechanisms of this lung–gut axis, metabolites in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissues were detected using UHPLC–Q-TOF-MS/MS technology, while microbiome characterization was performed in BALF using 16S rDNA sequencing. The levels of pulmonary metabolites changed greatly during the development of UC to CRC. Among these changes, the concentrations of linoleic acid and 7-hydroxy-3-oxocholic acid gradually increased during the development of UC to CRC. In addition, the composition of the pulmonary microbiota also changed significantly, with an increase in the Proteobacteria and an obvious decrease in the Firmicutes. These changes were consistent with our previous studies of the gut. Collectively, the microbiota and metabolites identified above might be the key markers related to lung and gut diseases, which can be used as an indication of the transition of diseases from the gut to the lung and provide a scientific basis for clinical treatment.

Astragali Radix-Codonopsis Radix-Jujubae Fructus water extracts ameliorate exercise-induced fatigue in mice via modulating gut microbiota and its metabolites

BACKGROUD

Astragali Radix (AR) and Codonopsis Radix (CR) are widely used as the tonic herbal medicine with efficacy of tonifying qi in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which showed significant antifatigue activities. In this study, AR and CR were combined, with Jujubae Fructus (JF) further added to improve the taste, to afford the ACJ extracts in the ratio of 2:1:2.

RESULTS

The results showed that ACJ water extract exhibited antifatigue effect by the weight-loaded exhaustive swimming test in mice. The untargeted fecal metabolomic approach and 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis showed that ACJ could improve exercise performance by regulating changes of gut metabolites and microbiota to alleviate fatigue. Four pathways were determined as the key pathways relating with its antifatigue effect, which included sphingolipid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis and d-arginine and d-ornithine metabolism. Correlation analysis showed the complex association among bacteria, metabolites and phenotypes.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this study revealed new perspectives to study the antifatigue mechanism of ACJ extracts from the gut microbiota, which provided the basis for further functional food development. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Validation of the Anticolitis Efficacy of the Jian-Wei-Yu-Yang Formula

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality due to its repetitive remission and relapse. The Jian-Wei-Yu-Yang (JW) formula has a historical application in the clinic to combat gastrointestinal disorders. The investigation aimed to explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms of JW.

Methods

2% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) was diluted in drinking water and given to mice for 5 days to establish murine models of experimental colitis, and different doses of JW solution were administered for 14 days. Network pharmacology analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were utilized to predict the therapeutic role of JW against experimental colitis and colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC). 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics were conducted using murine feces. Western blotting, immunocytochemistry, and wound healing experiments were performed to confirm the molecular mechanisms.

Results

(1) Liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry was utilized to confirm the validity of the JW formula. The high dose of JW treatment markedly attenuated DSS-induced experimental colitis progression, and the targets were enriched in inflammation, infection, and tumorigenesis. (2) The JW targets were related to the survival probability in patients with colorectal cancer, underlying a potential therapeutic value in CRC intervention. (3) Moreover, the JW therapy successfully rescued the decreased richness and diversity of microbiota, suppressed the potentially pathogenic phenotype of the gut microorganisms, and increased cytochrome P450 activity in murine colitis models. (4) Our in vitro experiments confirmed that the JW treatment suppressed caspase3-dependent pyroptosis, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α), and interleukin-1b (IL-1b) in the colon; facilitated the alternative activation of macrophages (Mφs); and inhibited tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα)-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in intestinal organoids (IOs).

Conclusion

The JW capsule attenuated the progression of murine colitis by a prompt resolution of inflammation and bloody stool and by re-establishing a microbiome profile that favors re-epithelization and prevents carcinogenesis.

Temporal Changes in Fecal Unabsorbed Carbohydrates Relative to Perturbations in Gut Microbiome of Neonatal Calves: Emerging of Diarrhea Induced by Extended-Spectrum β-lactamase-Producing Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli

Early gut microbiota development and colonization are crucial for the long-term health and performance of ruminants. However, cognition among these microbiota is still vague, particularly among the neonatal dairy calves. Here, extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing enteroaggregative E. coli (ESBL-EAEC)-induced temporal changes in diversity, stability, and composition of gut microbiota were investigated among the neonatal female calves, with the view of discerning potential biomarkers of this arising diarrhea cases in local pastures. Nearly, 116 newborn calves were enrolled in this time period study during their first 2 weeks of life, and a total of 40 selected fecal samples from corresponding calves were used in this study. The results revealed that differentiated gut microbiome and metabolome discerned from neonatal calves were accompanied by bacterial infections over time. Commensal organisms like Butyricicoccus, Faecalibacterium, Ruminococcus, Collinsella, and Coriobacterium, as key microbial markers, mainly distinguish “healthy” and “diarrheic” gut microbiome. Random forest machine learning algorithm indicated that enriched fecal carbohydrates, including rhamnose and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, and abundant short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) existed in healthy ones. In addition, Spearman correlation results suggested that the presence of Butyricicoccus, Faecalibacterium, Collinsella, and Coriobacterium, key commensal bacteria of healthy calves, is positively related to high production of unabsorbed carbohydrates, SCFAs, and other prebiotics, and negatively correlated to increased concentrations of lactic acid, hippuric acid, and α-linolenic acid. Our data suggested that ESBL-EAEC-induced diarrhea in female calves could be forecasted by alterations in the gut microbiome and markedly changed unabsorbed carbohydrates in feces during early lives, which might be conducive to conduct early interventions to ameliorate clinical symptoms of diarrhea induced by the rising prevalence of ESBL-EAEC.

Zingiber officinale and Panax ginseng ameliorate ulcerative colitis in mice via modulating gut microbiota and its metabolites

Zingiber officinale and Panax ginseng, as well-known traditional Chinese medicines, have been used together to clinically treat ulcerative colitis with synergistic effects for thousands of years. However, their compatibility mechanism remains unclear. In this study, the shift of gut microbiome and fecal metabolic profiles were monitored by 16S rRNA sequencing technology and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis, respectively, which aimed to reveal the synergistic mechanism of Zingiber officinale and Panax ginseng on the amelioration of ulcerative colitis. The results showed that the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria (such as Muribaculaceae_norank, Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group and Akkermansia) was significantly increased and the abundance of pathogenic bacteria (such as Bacteroides, Parabacteroides and Desulfovibrio) was markedly decreased after the intervention of Zingiber officinale-Panax ginseng herb pair. And a total of 16 differential metabolites related to ulcerative colitis were identified by the metabolomics analysis, which were majorly associated with the metabolic pathways, including arachidonic acid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, and steroid biosynthesis. Based on these findings, it was suggested that the regulation of the gut microbiota-metabolite axis might be a potential target for the synergistic mechanism of Zingiber officinale-Panax ginseng herb pair in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Furthermore, the integrated analysis of microbiome and metabolomics used in this study could also serve as a useful template for exploring the mechanism of other drugs.

Gancao Xiexin Decoction Ameliorates Ulcerative Colitis in Mice via Modulating Gut Microbiota and Metabolites

Purpose

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that starts with mucosal inflammation of the rectum and extends proximally in the colon in a continuous manner over a variable distance. Although it is more common in North America and Western Europe, its incidence is also increasing in Asia. Despite the introduction of several different classes of medications, the treatment options for UC may be insufficiently effective and burdened with significant side effects. In the present study, the therapeutic effects of Gancao Xiexin decoction (GCXX) were investigated on mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis with exploration of the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Colitis was induced in C57BL/6 mice by administering 3% DSS in drinking water for 7 days. GCXX and (or) the standard of care anti-inflammatory drug, mesalazine (5-aminosalicylic acid) were then administered for 7 days. The gut microbiota was characterized by 16S rDNA high-throughput gene sequencing and gut metabolites were detected by untargeted metabolomics. Germ-free mice were subsequently used to determine whether GCXX ameliorated UC principally through modulation of the gut microbiota.

Results

GCXX treatment was demonstrated to significantly reduce disease activity index (DAI) scores, prevent colonic shortening, ameliorate colonic tissue damage and reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, analysis of the gut microbiota showed that GCXX-treated mice had higher relative quantity of Dubosiella (P<0.05) and lower relative quantity of Escherichia-Shigella (P<0.05). Metabolomics analysis indicated that GCXX could reduce the level of linoleic acid (P<0.05) and regulate its metabolism pathway. Moreover, in germ-free mice, GCXX failed to increase body weight, reduce DAI scores, or alleviate either colonic shortening or colonic damage.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrated that GCXX ameliorated DSS-induced colitis principally through modulating the gut microbiota and metabolites. This information should be integrated into the overall mechanisms of GCXX treatment of UC.

Atrazine exposure and recovery alter the intestinal structure, bacterial composition and intestinal metabolites of male Pelophylax nigromaculatus

The pesticide atrazine poses a potential threat to the health of frogs living in farmland areas. The exposure concentration in traditional pesticide experiments is usually constant, while pesticide pollution in actual water may fluctuate due to periodic or seasonal application. We examined the effects of different concentrations of atrazine (50, 100 and 500 μg/L) over a 14-day exposure and a 7-day recovery on intestinal histology, bacterial composition and intestinal metabolites of male Pelophylax nigromaculatus. HE staining revealed that after a 14-day atrazine exposure, the 100 μg/L and 500 μg/L groups showed obvious cysts and significantly decreased intestinal crypt depth and villus height. After a 7-day recovery, the damaged intestine in the 100 μg/L group was partially recovered, while in the 500 μg/L exposure group there was no improvement. 16S rRNA gene analysis of intestinal bacteria showed that 500 μg/L atrazine exposure significantly caused a persistent decrease in bacterial α diversity. Compared to the control and other atrazine exposure groups, the 500 μg/L group showed significant changes in the relative abundance of predominant bacteria. In addition, most dominant bacteria in the 500 μg/L recovery group showed significant differences with the 50 μg/L and 100 μg/L recovery groups. Nontargeted metabolomics profiling based on UPLC/MS analysis showed that atrazine exposure and recovery induced changes in the intestinal metabolic profile. The changes in metabolites were mainly related to purine/pyrimidine metabolism, glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, and arginine and proline metabolism. In general, these pathways were closely related to energy metabolism and amino acid metabolism. These results suggest that the short-term exposure to 500 μg/L atrazine causes persistent harm to intestinal health. This study is an important step toward a better understanding of the toxic effects of atrazine exposure and recovery in frog intestines.

Protective Effects of Intestinal Gallic Acid in Neonatal Dairy Calves Against Extended-Spectrum β-lactamase Producing Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli Infection: Modulating Intestinal Homeostasis and Colitis

Calf diarrhea induced by enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) spreads fast among young ruminants, causing continuous hazard to dairy industry. Antimicrobial drug abuse aggravates the incidence rate of multi-drug resistant (MDR) extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing E. coli (ESBL-EC). However, knowledge of detection and significance of disease-related biomarkers in neonatal female calves are still limited. Gallic acid (GA), a natural secondary metabolite mostly derived from plants, has attracted increasing attention for its excellent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. However, it is vague how GA engenders amelioration effects on clinical symptoms and colitis induced by ESBL-EAEC infection in neonatal animals. Here, differentiated gut microbiome and fecal metabolome discerned from neonatal calves were analyzed to ascertain biomarkers in their early lives. Commensal Collinsella and Coriobacterium acted as key microbial markers mediating colonization resistance. In addition, there exists a strongly positive relation between GA, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) or other prebiotics, and those commensals using random forest machine learning algorithm and Spearman correlation analyses. The protective effect of GA pretreatment on bacterial growth, cell adherence, and ESBL-EAEC-lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated Caco-2 cells were first assessed, and results revealed direct antibacterial effects and diminished colonic cell inflammation. Then, oral GA mediated colitis attenuation and recovery of colonic short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) productions on neonatal mice peritonitis sepsis or oral infection model. To corroborate this phenomenon, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) method was adopted to remedy the bacterial infection. Of note, FMT from GA-treated neonatal mice achieved profound remission of clinical symptoms and colitis over the other groups as demonstrated by antibacterial capability and prominent anti-inflammatory abilities, revealing improved hindgut microbiota structure with enriched Clostridia_UCG-014, Lachnospiraceae, Oscillospiraceae, and Enterococcaceae, and upregulation of SCFA productions. Collectively, our findings provided the direct evidence of hindgut microbiota and intestinal metabolites, discriminating the health status of neonatal calves post ESBL-EAEC infection. The data provided novel insights into GA-mediated remission of colitis via amelioration of hindgut commensal structure and upregulation of SCFA productions. In addition, its eminent role as potential antibiotic alternative or synergist for future clinic ESBL-EAEC control in livestock.

Alterations in the Gut Microbiota and Their Metabolites in Colorectal Cancer: Recent Progress and Future Prospects

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer morbidity and mortality worldwide. The etiology and pathogenesis of CRC remain unclear. A growing body of evidence suggests dysbiosis of gut bacteria can contribute to the occurrence and development of CRC by generating harmful metabolites and changing host physiological processes. Metabolomics, a systems biology method, will systematically study the changes in metabolites in the physiological processes of the body, eventually playing a significant role in the detection of metabolic biomarkers and improving disease diagnosis and treatment. Metabolomics, in particular, has been highly beneficial in tracking microbially derived metabolites, which has substantially advanced our comprehension of host-microbiota metabolic interactions in CRC. This paper has briefly compiled recent research progress of the alterations of intestinal flora and its metabolites associated with CRC and the application of association analysis of metabolomics and gut microbiome in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of CRC; furthermore, we discuss the prospects for the problems and development direction of this association analysis in the study of CRC. Gut microbiota and their metabolites influence the progression and causation of CRC, and the association analysis of metabolomics and gut microbiome will provide novel strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, and therapy of CRC.

The Role of Gut Microbiota and Metabolites in Obesity-Associated Chronic Gastrointestinal Disorders

The gut microbiota is a complex community of microorganisms that has become a new focus of attention due to its association with numerous human diseases. Research over the last few decades has shown that the gut microbiota plays a considerable role in regulating intestinal homeostasis, and disruption to the microbial community has been linked to chronic disease conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer (CRC), and obesity. Obesity has become a global pandemic, and its prevalence is increasing worldwide mostly in Western countries due to a sedentary lifestyle and consumption of high-fat/high-sugar diets. Obesity-mediated gut microbiota alterations have been associated with the development of IBD and IBD-induced CRC. This review highlights how obesity-associated dysbiosis can lead to the pathogenesis of IBD and CRC with a special focus on mechanisms of altered absorption of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).

Serum Metabolomic Profiling Reveals Biomarkers for Early Detection and Prognosis of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common aggressive malignancies worldwide, particularly in northern China. The absence of specific early symptoms and biomarkers leads to late-stage diagnosis, while early diagnosis and risk stratification are crucial for improving overall prognosis. We performed UPLC-MS/MS on 450 ESCC patients and 588 controls consisting of a discovery group and two validation groups to identify biomarkers for early detection and prognosis. Bioinformatics and clinical statistical methods were used for profiling metabolites and evaluating potential biomarkers. A total of 105 differential metabolites were identified as reliable biomarker candidates for ESCC with the same tendency in three cohorts, mainly including amino acids and fatty acyls. A predictive model of 15 metabolites [all-trans-13,14-dihydroretinol, (±)-myristylcarnitine, (2S,3S)-3-methylphenylalanine, 3-(pyrazol-1-yl)-L-alanine, carnitine C10:1, carnitine C10:1 isomer1, carnitine C14-OH, carnitine C16:2-OH, carnitine C9:1, formononetin, hyodeoxycholic acid, indole-3-carboxylic acid, PysoPE 20:3, PysoPE 20:3(2n isomer1), and resolvin E1] was developed by logistic regression after LASSO and random forest analysis. This model held high predictive accuracies on distinguishing ESCC from controls in the discovery and validation groups (accuracies > 89%). In addition, the levels of four downregulated metabolites [hyodeoxycholic acid, (2S,3S)-3-methylphenylalanine, carnitine C9:1, and indole-3-carboxylic acid] were significantly higher in early cancer than advanced cancer. Furthermore, three independent prognostic markers were identified by multivariate Cox regression analyses with and without clinical indicators: a high level of MG(20:4)isomer and low levels of 9,12-octadecadienoic acid and L-isoleucine correlated with an unfavorable prognosis; the risk score based on these three metabolites was able to stratify patients into low or high risk. Moreover, pathway analysis indicated that retinol metabolism and linoleic acid metabolism were prominent perturbed pathways in ESCC. In conclusion, metabolic profiling revealed that perturbed amino acids and lipid metabolism were crucial metabolic signatures of ESCC. Both panels of diagnostic and prognostic markers showed excellent predictive performances. Targeting retinol and linoleic acid metabolism pathways may be new promising mechanism-based therapeutic approaches. Thus, this study would provide novel insights for the early detection and risk stratification for the clinical management of ESCC and potentially improve the outcomes of ESCC.

Construction of a "Bacteria-Metabolites" Co-Expression Network to Clarify the Anti-Ulcerative Colitis Effect of Flavonoids of Sophora flavescens Aiton by Regulating the "Host-Microbe" Interaction

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is considered an immune disease, which is related to the dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota and disorders of the host immune system and metabolism. Sophora flavescens Aiton has been used for the clinical treatment of UC in China and East Asia for thousands of years. It has many traditional prescriptions and modern preparations, and its curative effects are definite. We are the first to report that the flavonoids in Sophora flavescens (S. flavescens) Aiton EtOAc extract (SFE) could potentially attenuate the dextran sodium sulfate–induced UC in mice, which changed the current understanding of considering alkaloids as the only anti-UC pharmacological substances of S. flavescens Aiton. Based on the 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metabolomic analysis, it was found that the anti-UC effects of SFE were due to the regulation of gut microbiota, reversing the abnormal metabolisms, and regulation of the short-chain fatty acids synthesis. Notably, according to the interaction networks of specific bacteria and “bacteria and metabolites” co-expression network, the SFE could enrich the abundance of the commensal bacterium Lactobacillus, Roseburia, norank_f__Muribaculaceae, Anaerotruncus, Candidatus_Saccharimona, and Parasutterella, which are proposed as potentially beneficial bacteria, thereby playing vital roles in the treatment of UC.

Fusobacterium Nucleatum Promotes the Development of Colorectal Cancer by Activating a Cytochrome P450/Epoxyoctadecenoic Acid Axis via TLR4/Keap1/NRF2 Signaling

Emerging research has revealed regulation of colorectal cancer metabolism by bacteria. Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) plays a crucial role in the development of colorectal cancer, however, whether Fn infection modifies metabolism in patients with colorectal cancer remains unknown. Here, LC-MS/MS-based lipidomics identified the upregulation of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, primarily CYP2J2, and their mediated product 12,13-EpOME in patients with colorectal cancer tumors and mouse models, which increased the invasive and migratory ability of colorectal cancer cells in vivo and in vitro by regulating the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Metagenomic sequencing indicated a positive correlation between increased levels of fecal Fn and serum 12,13-EpOME in patients with colorectal cancer. High levels of CYP2J2 in tumor tissues also correlated with high Fn levels and worse overall survival in patients with stage III/IV colorectal cancer. Moreover, Fn was found to activate TLR4/AKT signaling, downregulating Keap1 and increasing NRF2 to promote transcription of CYP2J2. Collectively, these data identify that Fn promotes EMT and metastasis in colorectal cancer by activating a TLR4/Keap1/NRF2 axis to increase CYP2J2 and 12,13-EpOME, which could serve as clinical biomarkers and therapeutic targets for Fn-infected patients with colorectal cancer. SIGNIFICANCE: This study uncovers a mechanism by which Fusobacterium nucleatum regulates colorectal cancer metabolism to drive metastasis, suggesting the potential biomarker and therapeutic utility of the CYP2J2/12,13-EpOME axis in Fn-infected patients.

The Multifaceted Roles of Diet, Microbes, and Metabolites in Cancer

Many studies performed to date have implicated select microbes and dietary factors in a variety of cancers, yet the complexity of both these diseases and the relationship between these factors has limited the ability to translate findings into therapies and preventative guidelines. Here we begin by discussing recently published studies relating to dietary factors, such as vitamins and chemical compounds used as ingredients, and their contribution to cancer development. We further review recent studies, which display evidence of the microbial-diet interaction in the context of cancer. The field continues to advance our understanding of the development of select cancers and how dietary factors are related to the development, prevention, and treatment of these cancers. Finally, we highlight the science available in the discussion of common misconceptions with regards to cancer and diet. We conclude this review with thoughts on where we believe future research should focus in order to provide the greatest impact towards human health and preventative medicine.