Inflammation and gut-brain axis link obesity to cognitive dysfunction: plausible pharmacological interventions

A high-fat diet induced depression-like phenotype via hypocretin-HCRTR1 mediated inflammation activation

Background: A high-fat diet (HFD) is generally associated with an increased risk of mental disorders that constitute a sizeable worldwide health. A HFD results in the gut microbiota-brain axis being altered and linked to mental disorders. Hypocretin-1, which can promote appetite, has been previously confirmed to be associated with depression. However, no exact relationship has been found for hypocretin between depression and HFDs. Methods: Adult male SD rats were randomly assigned to either a HFD or a normal diet for eight weeks, followed by behavioral tests and plasma biochemical analyses. Then, we investigated the protein and mRNA levels of inflammation-related factors in the hippocampus. We also observed morphological changes in brain microglia and lipid accumulation. Additionally, metagenomic and metabolomic analyses of gut microbiomes were performed. 3T3-L1 cells were utilized in vitro to investigate the impact of hypocretin receptor 1 antagonists (SB334867) on lipid accumulation. To consider the connection between the brain and adipose tissue, we used a conditioned medium (CM) treated with 3T3-L1 cells to observe the activation and phagocytosis of BV2 cells. Following a 12-week period of feeding a HFD to C57BL/6 mice, a three-week intervention period was initiated during which the administration of SB334867 was observed. This was followed by a series of assessments, including monitoring of body weight changes and emotional problems, as well as attention to plasma biochemical levels and microglial cell phenotypes in the brain. Results: The HFD rats displayed anxiety and depressive-like behaviors. HFD rats exhibited increased plasma HDL, LDL, and TC levels. A HFD also causes an increase in hypocretin-1 and hypocretin-2 in the hypothalamus. Metagenomics and metabolomics revealed that the HFD caused an increase in the relative abundance of associated inflammatory bacteria and decreased the abundance of anti-inflammatory and bile acid metabolites. Compared with the CTR group, hippocampal microglia in the HFD group were significantly activated and accompanied by lipid deposition. At the same time, protein and mRNA expression levels of inflammation-related factors were increased. We found that SB334867 could significantly reduce lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells after differentiation. The expression of inflammatory factors decreased in the SB334867 group. The administration of SB334867 was found to reverse the adverse effects of the HFD on body weight, depressive-like behaviour and anxiety-like mood. Furthermore, this treatment was associated with improvements in plasma biochemical levels and a reduction in the number of microglia in the brain. Conclusions: In summary, our results demonstrated that a HFD induced anxiety and depressive-like behaviors, which may be linked to the increased hypocretin-1 level and lipid accumulation. Supplementation with SB334867 improved the above. These observations highlight the possibility of hypocretin-1 inducing the risk of HFD-associated emotional dysfunctions.

Impact of inflammation on cognitive function in patients with highly inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate cognitive function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and inflammatory activity.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional study of a cohort of patients with RA initiating their first biological treatment due to moderate-to-high inflammation and a healthy control group (no inflammatory diseases) matched for age, sex and educational level. All participants underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment, with cognitive impairment defined as a Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score<26. Additional assessments included various cognitive tests (STROOP, forward and backward digit spans), anxiety and depression scales (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), quality of life measures (Quality of Life-Rheumatoid Arthritis) and average inflammatory activity according to the 28-joint Disease Activity Score (DAS28)-C-reactive protein (CRP) into high activity (DAS28≥3.2) and low activity (DAS28<3.2) groups, also CRP levels and interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels were measured using an ELISA.

RESULTS

The study population comprised 140 participants, 70 patients with RA and 70 controls. Patients more frequently experienced cognitive impairment than controls (60% vs 40%; p=0.019) and had lower mean (SD) values in the MoCA (23.6 (3.9) vs 25.1 (3.4); p=0.019. As for subtests of the MoCA, involvement was more marked in patients than in controls for the visuospatial-executive (p=0.030), memory (p=0.026) and abstraction (p=0.039) domains. Additionally, patients scored lower on executive function, as assessed by the backward digit span test (4.0 (1.7) vs 4.7 (1.9); p=0.039). Cognitive impairment is associated with age and a lower educational level in the general population, and among patients with RA with educational level, obesity and average inflammatory activity (DAS28, CRP, and IL-6).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with RA with high inflammatory activity are more susceptible to cognitive impairment, which specifically affects the domains of visuospatial, memory, abstraction and executive function.

Insulin resistance as the molecular link between diabetes and Alzheimer's disease

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are two major health concerns that have seen a rising prevalence worldwide. Recent studies have indicated a possible link between DM and an increased risk of developing AD. Insulin, while primarily known for its role in regulating blood sugar, also plays a vital role in protecting brain functions. Insulin resistance (IR), especially prevalent in type 2 diabetes, is believed to play a significant role in AD's development. When insulin signalling becomes dysfunctional, it can negatively affect various brain functions, making individuals more susceptible to AD's defining features, such as the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles. Emerging research suggests that addressing insulin-related issues might help reduce or even reverse the brain changes linked to AD. This review aims to explore the rela-tionship between DM and AD, with a focus on the role of IR. It also explores the molecular mechanisms by which IR might lead to brain changes and assesses current treatments that target IR. Understanding IR's role in the connection between DM and AD offers new possibilities for treatments and highlights the importance of continued research in this interdisciplinary field.

Associated between cognition, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and macronutrients in normal and overweight postmenopausal women

BDNF is a protein associated with cognitive dysfunction. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between BDNF and cognitive functions and the intake of macronutrients in postmenopausal women. For this purpose, 72 postmenopausal women were recruited to the study and divided into two subgroups: overweight/obese and normal weight. Using a 3-day food record, nutrition was assessed. The markers studied were the level of BDNF, which was determined from the venous blood serum collected from women, and selected cognitive functions. We observed that in the normal BMI group macronutrient intake was correlated with BDNF levels, and only total fat and carbohydrate intake were inversely correlated with BDNF levels. There were inverse correlations observed among selected parameters of cognitive functioning. In the Ov/Ob group, macronutrient intake correlated with the BDNF level for several variables, e.g. vice versa with total protein, fat and carbohydrate intake, as well as dietary cholesterol. It has also been noted that there are links between the BDNF factor and excessive body weight.

Modulation of Gut Microbiota Through Dietary Intervention in Neuroinflammation and Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of neuroinflammation and Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. One of the main modulators of the gut microbiota is the diet, which directly influences host homeostasis and biological processes. Some dietary patterns can affect neurodegenerative diseases' progression through gut microbiota composition, gut permeability, and the synthesis and secretion of microbial-derived neurotrophic factors and neurotransmitters. This comprehensive review critically assesses existing studies investigating the impact of dietary interventions on the modulation of the microbiota in relation to neurodegenerative diseases and neuroinflammation.

RECENT FINDINGS

There are limited studies on the effects of specific diets, such as the ketogenic diet, Mediterranean diet, vegetarian diet, and Western diet, on the progression of neuroinflammation and Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases through the gut-brain axis. The ketogenic diet displays promising potential in ameliorating the clinical trajectory of mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. However, conflicting outcomes were observed among various studies, highlighting the need to consider diverse types of ketogenic diets and their respective effects on clinical outcomes and gut microbiota composition. Vegetarian and Mediterranean diets, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, can be effective against Parkinson's disease, which is related to inflammation in the gut environment. On the other hand, the westernization of dietary patterns was associated with reduced gut microbial diversity and metabolites, which ultimately contributed to the development of neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment. Various studies examining the impact of dietary interventions on the gut-brain axis with regard to neuroinflammation and Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases are thoroughly reviewed in this article. A strong mechanistic explanation is required to fully understand the complex interactions between various dietary patterns, gut microbiota, and microbial metabolites and the effects these interactions have on cognitive function and the progression of these diseases.

Gut microbiota and its metabolites in Alzheimer's disease: from pathogenesis to treatment

Introduction

An increasing number of studies have demonstrated that altered microbial diversity and function (such as metabolites), or ecological disorders, regulate bowel-brain axis involvement in the pathophysiologic processes in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The dysregulation of microbes and their metabolites can be a double-edged sword in AD, presenting the possibility of microbiome-based treatment options. This review describes the link between ecological imbalances and AD, the interactions between AD treatment modalities and the microbiota, and the potential of interventions such as prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and dietary interventions as complementary therapeutic strategies targeting AD pathogenesis and progression.

Survey methodology

Articles from PubMed and china.com on intestinal flora and AD were summarized to analyze the data and conclusions carefully to ensure the comprehensiveness, completeness, and accuracy of this review.

Conclusions

Regulating the gut flora ecological balance upregulates neurotrophic factor expression, regulates the microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis, and suppresses the inflammatory responses. Based on emerging research, this review explored novel directions for future AD research and clinical interventions, injecting new vitality into microbiota research development.

Exploring the Interconnections of Functional Gut Disorders and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Narrative Review Article

This review reveals details of the interaction between disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by providing an in-depth review of that relationship. The review provides a nuanced understanding of this multifaceted dynamic by spanning shared symptomatology, the impact of inflammation on functional aspects, and addressing diagnostic challenges, psychological influences, treatment strategies, and emerging research directions. By synthesizing current knowledge and identifying gaps in understanding, this article aims to contribute to the evolving discourse surrounding the interplay between IBD and DGBI, offering valuable insights for clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals navigating the complexities of gastrointestinal health.

The Connection between Chronic Liver Damage and Sporadic Alzheimer's Disease: Evidence and Insights from a Rat Model

Junk foods are typically low in essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are also loaded with trans fats and saturated fats, which can increase the level of triglycerides in the blood. High triglyceride levels can contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition where excess fat accumulates in the liver. A high intake of junk foods can lead to insulin resistance, a condition where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin. A diet lacking in nutrients and loaded with unwanted toxins can impair the liver's ability to detoxify harmful substances and damage its overall function. It is known that the regular consumption of junk food can be linked to memory impairment and cognitive decline. Several studies have shown that diets high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and processed foods can negatively impact brain health, including memory function. In this study, Wistar rats were used to model Late-Onset Alzheimer's Disease (LOAD), which was inspired by knowledge of the liver-brain axis's role in causing dementia. The model mimicked junk-food-induced liver-brain damage, and was developed by using the toxins d-galactosamine, ethanol and d-galactose. To begin with, the model rats demonstrated insulin resistance, a characteristic of LOAD patients. Glucose levels in both the brain and liver tissues were significantly elevated in the model, paralleling clinical findings in LOAD patients. High glucose levels in the brain lead to the increased production of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which, along with amyloid beta, harm neighbouring neurons. Histopathological analysis revealed deformed glial nodules, apoptotic neurons, and amyloid plaques in the brain section in the later stages of the disease. Simultaneously, the liver section displayed features of cirrhosis, including an effaced lobular architecture and the extravasation of red blood cells. Liver enzymes ALT, AST and ALP were consistently elevated with disease progression. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry confirmed the presence of amyloid precursor protein (APP) in the diseased brain. The positive expression of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 3-Alpha (HIF3A) in the brain indicated hypoxic conditions, which is consistent with other LOAD studies. This model also exhibited damaged intestinal villi and excessive bowel and urinary incontinence, indicating malnutrition and a disturbed gut microbiome, which is also consistent with LOAD patients. Bioinformatics analysis on serum protein suggests a few affected molecular pathways, like the amyloid secretase pathway, androgen/oestrogen/progesterone biosynthesis, the apoptosis signalling pathway, the insulin/IGF pathway-protein kinase B signalling cascade, the Metabotropic glutamate receptor group I pathway, the Wnt signalling pathway, etc. Behavioural analysis confirmed memory decline and the loss of muscle strength with disease progression. Overall, this rat model of LOAD sheds valuable light on LOAD pathology and highlights the potential link between liver dysfunction, particularly induced by the excessive consumption of junk food, and LOAD. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms involved in LOAD, paving the way for new possibilities in therapeutic interventions.

Effects of Probiotics on Colitis-Induced Exacerbation of Alzheimer's Disease in AppNL-G-F Mice

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by progressive cognitive decline and is a leading cause of death in the United States. Neuroinflammation has been implicated in the progression of AD, and several recent studies suggest that peripheral immune dysfunction may influence the disease. Continuing evidence indicates that intestinal dysbiosis is an attribute of AD, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been shown to aggravate cognitive impairment. Previously, we separately demonstrated that an IBD-like condition exacerbates AD-related changes in the brains of the AppNL-G-F mouse model of AD, while probiotic intervention has an attenuating effect. In this study, we investigated the combination of a dietary probiotic and an IBD-like condition for effects on the brains of mice. Male C57BL/6 wild type (WT) and AppNL-G-F mice were randomly divided into four groups: vehicle control, oral probiotic, dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), and DSS given with probiotics. As anticipated, probiotic treatment attenuated the DSS-induced colitis disease activity index in WT and AppNL-G-F mice. Although probiotic feeding significantly attenuated the DSS-mediated increase in WT colonic lipocalin levels, it was less protective in the AppNL-G-F DSS-treated group. In parallel with the intestinal changes, combined probiotic and DSS treatment increased microglial, neutrophil elastase, and 5hmC immunoreactivity while decreasing c-Fos staining compared to DSS treatment alone in the brains of WT mice. Although less abundant, probiotic combined with DSS treatment demonstrated a few similar changes in AppNL-G-F brains with increased microglial and decreased c-Fos immunoreactivity in addition to a slight increase in Aβ plaque staining. Both probiotic and DSS treatment also altered the levels of several cytokines in WT and AppNL-G-F brains, with a unique increase in the levels of TNFα and IL-2 being observed in only AppNL-G-F mice following combined DSS and probiotic treatment. Our data indicate that, while dietary probiotic intervention provides protection against the colitis-like condition, it also influences numerous glial, cytokine, and neuronal changes in the brain that may regulate brain function and the progression of AD.

A State-of-Art Review of the Vicious Circle of Sleep Disorders, Diabetes and Neurodegeneration Involving Metabolism and Microbiota Alterations

In the context of neurodegenerative disorders, cognitive decline is frequently reported in older population. Recently, numerous metabolic pathways have been implicated in neurodegeneration, including signaling disruption of insulin and other glucose-regulating hormones. In fact, Alzheimer's disease has now been considered as "type-3 diabetes". In this review, we tried to clarify the role of sleep impairment as the third major player in the complex relationship between metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. Altered sleep may trigger or perpetuate these vicious mechanisms, leading to the development of both dementia and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Finally, we analyzed these reciprocal interactions considering the emerging role of the gut microbiota in modulating the same processes. Conditions of dysbiosis have been linked to circadian rhythm disruption, metabolic alterations, and release of neurotoxic products, all contributing to neurodegeneration. In a future prospective, gut microbiota could provide a major contribution in explaining the tangled relationship between sleep disorders, dementia and diabetes.

Review of Plant Extracts and Active Components: Mechanisms of Action for the Treatment of Obesity-Induced Cognitive Impairment

Obesity has been shown to negatively impact cognitive functions, but effective treatments for obesity-induced cognitive impairment are lacking. Natural dietary and plant products, functional foods, and plant-derived compounds have gained attention as potential remedies in part due to the nootropic properties of plants and certain plant-derived agents. This review discusses plant extracts and plant-derived substances that have been shown to ameliorate obesity-induced cognitive impairment in animal models. Mechanistic evaluations of their therapeutic effects are also summarized. A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases, resulting in the review of 27 English language articles meeting the inclusion criteria. The nine plants (e.g., Ashwagandha, Adzuki bean, and olive) and 18 plant-derived substances (e.g., curcumin, Huperzine A, and Roxburgh's jewel orchid polysaccharides) included in this review improved obesity-induced cognitive impairment through several mechanisms, including attenuation of neuroinflammation, improvement in both central and peripheral insulin resistance, enhancement of neuroprotection and neurogenesis, and modulation of the synthesis and release of cognition-associated neurotransmitters. Based on these findings, plants and plant-derived substances may hold promise for the prevention and treatment of obesity-induced cognitive impairment. Further research is warranted to explore the clinical potential of these plant-derived treatments and to elucidate their underlying molecular mechanisms.

Adherence to the MIND diet is inversely associated with odds and severity of anxiety disorders: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

The association between the Mediterranean-DASH diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet, odds, and severity of anxiety disorders (AD) is still unclear. We aimed to investigate whether adherence to MIND diet is associated with odds and severity of AD.

METHODS

The present case-control study carried out on 85 patients who were group matched by gender with 170 healthy subjects. Data for dietary intake was assessed by using a 147-item validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Anthropometric measures were collected using standard methods. The MIND diet score was calculated using FFQ. We assessed anxiety disorder severity using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaire. Multivariate odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to investigate the association of MIND diet and anxiety disorder.

RESULTS

We observed that higher adherence to MIND diet was associated with the lower GAD-7 score (p < 0.001). Individuals in the top category of MIND diet score were 97% less likely to have AD compared with those in the bottom category (OR: 0.03, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.09). There was significant reverse linear association between MIND diet score and AD (β = -3.63, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, we provided some evidence indicating negative association between adherence to MIND diet, odds, and severity of AD. Finally, due to the probable preventive role of diet, it is vital to clarify the association between diet and AD through large-scale prospective cohort studies in the future.

Rosa canina L. improves learning and memory-associated cognitive impairment by regulating glucose levels and reducing hippocampal insulin resistance in high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Recent studies claim that Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) overlap in several common pathological pathways which from neuronal damage to impaired memory performance. It is known that the use of Rosa canina L. (R. canina) as medicine in folk medicine dates back to ancient times and is used in the treatment of nervous diseases in Persian medicine. However, the effect of R. canina on diabetes-related cognitive decline and memory impairment has not yet been studied.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We evaluated the impact of T2DM on AD-like alterations and examined the molecular mechanism of a possible effect of R. canina on cognitive alterations in diabetic rats.

MATERIALS&METHODS

R. canina ethanol extract was obtained by maceration method. This study was performed with male Spraque-Dawley rats fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) for 8 weeks, low-dose streptozotocin (STZ; 35 mg/kg IP) injection for 4 weeks, and R. canina (250 mg/kg; per oral) and metformin (400 mg/kg; per oral) administration for 4 weeks. The weight and blood glucose of rats were measured weekly. To evaluate glucose tolerance area under the curve (AUC) was calculated by performing an oral glucose tolerance test. Then the rats were subjected to behavioural tests, and their hippocampus and cortex tissues were obtained for biochemical and morphological analyses.

RESULTS

R. canina could manage glucose responsiveness by reducing post-prandial blood glucose levels, preventing weight loss, and raising serum insulin levels in T2DM-induced rats. Behavioural tests showed that R. canina significantly improves diabetes-related cognitive decline in recall and long-term memory. Treatment with R. canina significantly reversed HFD/STZ-induced increases in insulin, amyloid-β, amyloid precursor protein levels, and acetylcholinesterase activity in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Furthermore, histological analyzes revealed the protection of R. canina against neuronal disruption in the cortical and hippocampal CA3 region caused by chronic hyperglycemia.

CONCLUSION

Analyzed collectively, these results suggest that R. canina can correct T2DM-related cognitive decline may be attributed to insulin pathway modulation, prevention of amyloid deposition, and increased cholinergic transmission.

Comorbid Cognitive Impairment in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Current Understanding, Risk Factors, Implications for Clinical Practice, and Suggested Interventions

Cognitive impairment is a common comorbidity in patients with COPD, significantly impacting health and clinical outcomes. Yet it remains under investigated and is largely overlooked. Although the exact cause of cognitive impairment in patients with COPD is still unclear, factors such as hypoxemia, vascular disease, smoking, exacerbation, and physical inactivity have been suggested. While international guidelines recommend identifying comorbidity in patients with COPD, such as cognitive impairment, cognitive assessment is not yet part of the routine assessment. Unidentified cognitive deficits in patients with COPD may have severe impacts on clinical management, resulting in an inability to maintain functional independence, poor self-management, and a greater dropout from pulmonary rehabilitation programs. There is a need to consider cognitive screening as a part of COPD assessment to promote early detection of cognitive impairment. Recognizing cognitive impairment early in the course of the illness allows the development of individualized interventions to meet patients' needs and improve clinical outcomes. Pulmonary rehabilitation should be tailored to cognitively impaired patients with COPD to maximize the benefits and minimize the incompletion rate.

Effect of semaglutide and empagliflozin on cognitive function and hippocampal phosphoproteomic in obese mice

Objective: Based on the 4D label-free phosphoproteomic technique, we examined the differences in cognitive function and hippocampal phosphorylated protein expression in high-fat diet-induced obese mice after the intervention of semaglutide and empagliflozin, as well as the effects of both on protein activity and function in obese mice’s hippocampal tissues and the signaling pathways involved.

Methods: Thirty-two C57BL/6JC male mice were assigned to two groups randomly: A control group (group C, 10% of energy is from fat, n = 8) and a high-fat diet group (group H, 60% of energy is from fat, n = 24). The high-fat diet-induced obese mice were screened after 12 weeks of feeding based on the criterion that the bodyweight of mice in fat rich diet group was greater than or equal to 20% of the average body weight of the mice in the blank control group. Group H separate into group H (n = 8), group Semaglutide (group S, n = 8), and group empagliflozin (group E, n = 8). For a total of 12 weeks, group S received 30 nmol/kg/d bodyweight of semaglutide intraperitoneally, group E received 10 mg/kg/d bodyweight of empagliflozin via gavage, and groups C and H received equal amounts of saline by intraperitoneal injection and gavage. At the end of treatment, the mice were appraised for cognitive function employing the Morris water maze (MWM), and serum fasting glucose, lipids, and inflammatory parameters were measured. The 4D label-free phosphoproteomics method was employed to screen the differential phosphoproteins and loci in hippocampal tissues of mice in different treatment groups, and bioinformatics was used to analyze the biological processes, signaling pathways, and related protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis of these differentially phosphorylated proteins.

Results: In comparison to normal controls, The escape latency of obese mice induced by high-fat diet was prolonged, the percentage of swimming time in the target quadrant was reduced, and the number of times of crossing the platform was reduced, whereas semaglutide and empagliflozin treatment reduced escape latency, increase the percentage of swim time in the target quadrant and increase the frequency of passing through the platform area, although there is little difference in the effect of the two drugs. The phosphoproteomic results showed 20,493 unique phosphorylated peptides, representing 21,239 phosphorylation sites and 4,290 phosphorylated proteins. Further analysis revealed that the proteins corresponding to these differentially phosphorylated sites are jointly distributed in signaling pathways such as dopaminergic synapses and axon guidance, and are involved in biological processes such as neuronal projection development, synaptic plasticity, and axonogenesis. Notably, the key factors voltage-dependent L-type calcium channel subunit alpha-1D (CACNA1D), voltage-dependent P/Q-type calcium channel subunit alpha-1A (CACNA1A), and voltage-dependent N-type calcium channel subunit alpha-1B (CACNA1B) were all found to be involved in the dopaminergic synapse pathway, and their expression was upregulated by semaglutide and empagliflozin.

Conclusion: We found for the first time that a high-fat diet decreased CACNA1D, CACNA1A, and CACNA1B protein serine phosphorylation, which may affect neuronal development, synaptic plasticity, and cognitive function in mice. Notably, semaglutide and empagliflozin increased the phosphorylation of these proteins.

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SC06 attenuated high-fat diet induced anxiety-like behavior and social withdrawal of male mice by improving antioxidant capacity, intestinal barrier function and modulating intestinal dysbiosis

Anxiety-like behavior and social withdrawal induced by obesity and oxidative stress are significant health concerns in contemporary society. Our previously study found that Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SC06 (SC06) decreased the body weight of high-fat diet (HFD)-fed male mice and protected porcine intestinal epithelial cells against oxidative stress. The present study further investigated the effect of SC06 on HFD-induced obesity, anxiety-like behavior and social withdrawal of male mice and explored its mechanism. Results showed that SC06 significantly decreased HFD-induced obesity as evidenced by the decreased body weight, weight of liver and epididymal fat. Meanwhile, SC06 attenuated the anxiety-like behavior of HFD-fed male mice as illustrated by the more exploration time in both the open arms of elevated plus maze and the central area of open field and the reversed their social withdrawal tested in the three-chamber social choice task. SC06 also reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentration and normalized the mitochondrial morphology in the hippocampus. SC06 reduced the systemic inflammation and increased the expression of intestinal tight junctions (ZO-1 and Claudin1). Furthermore, SC06 also altered the microbial diversity and composition, and decreased Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio of HFD-fed male mice. These findings suggest SC06 attenuate HFD-induced anxiety-like behavior and social withdrawal of male mice by attenuating hippocampal oxidation stress, systemic inflammation, dysbiosis and improving intestinal barrier function.

Dietary fiber intake and risk of incident disabling dementia: the Circulatory Risk in Communities Study

OBJECTIVES

It has been hypothesized that dietary fiber intake has a beneficial impact on prevention of dementia, but the epidemiological evidence is scant. We sought to examine whether dietary fiber intake is inversely associated with risk of dementia requiring care under the national insurance (disabling dementia).

METHODS

The study setting was the Circulatory Risk in Communities Study, involving 3739 Japanese individuals aged 40-64 years at the dietary surveys (1985-99). Dietary fiber intake was estimated using the 24-hour dietary recall method. Incident disabling dementia was followed up from 1999 through 2020. Disabling dementia was further classified into that with or without a history of stroke. Hazard ratios of disabling dementia according to quartiles of total, soluble, and insoluble fiber intake were calculated using the Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

During a median 19.7-year follow-up, a total of 670 cases of disabling dementia developed. Dietary fiber intake was inversely associated with risk of dementia: the multivariate hazards ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 0.83 (0.67-1.04), 0.81 (0.65-1.02), and 0.74 (0.57-0.96) for individuals with the second, third, and highest quartiles of dietary fiber intake, respectively, as compared with the lowest quartile (P for trend = 0.03). The inverse association was more evident for soluble fiber intake and was confined to dementia without a history of stroke. As for fiber-containing foods, potatoes, but not vegetables or fruits, showed a similar association.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary fiber intake, especially soluble fiber, was inversely associated with risk of disabling dementia in a general Japanese population.

Association between dietary inflammatory potential and mortality after cancer diagnosis in the Women's Health Initiative

BACKGROUND

Chronic inflammation is implicated in cancer prognosis and can be modulated by diet. We examined associations between post-diagnosis dietary inflammatory potential and mortality outcomes among post-menopausal women diagnosed with cancer in the Women's Health Initiative (WHI).

METHODS

Energy-adjusted dietary inflammatory index scores (E-DII) were calculated from dietary and supplemental intake data collected on the first food frequency questionnaire following the diagnosis of primary invasive cancer for 3434 women in the WHI. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for risk of death from any cause, cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and other causes by post-diagnosis quartiles of E-DII. Subgroup analyses by cancer stage and grade were performed.

RESULTS

There were 1156 deaths after a median 13 years of follow-up from the date of a cancer diagnosis. In the multivariable-adjusted analyses, a more anti-inflammatory diet plus supplements after cancer diagnosis was associated with lower all-cause mortality, cancer mortality, CVD mortality and mortality from other causes with HRsQ1vs.Q4 ranging from 0.47 to 0.68 (all P-trends < 0.05). Associations were stronger for cancers diagnosed at more distant stages or moderately differentiated grades.

CONCLUSION

A more anti-inflammatory diet plus supplements after a cancer diagnosis may improve survival for post-menopausal cancer survivors.

Effects of Qi-Fu-Yin on aging of APP/PS1 transgenic mice by regulating the intestinal microbiome

Introduction

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia and closely related to aging. Qi-Fu-Yin is widely used to treat dementia, but its anti-aging effects is unknown.

Methods

We used 11-month-old APP/PS1 transgenic mice for behavioral tests to observe the changes in cognitive function and age-related symptoms after Qi-Fu-Yin treatment. Fecal samples were collected for 16sRNA sequencing and metagenomic sequencing. Differences among the groups of intestinal microbiota and the associations with aging and intestinal microbiota were analyzed based on the results.

Results

Here we found that Qi-Fu-Yin improved the ability of motor coordination, raised survival rate and prolonged the survival days under cold stress stimulation in aged APP/ PS1 transgenic mice. Our data from 16sRNA and metagenomic sequencing showed that at the Family level, the intestinal microbiota was significantly different among wild-type mice, APP/PS1 transgenic mice and the Qi-Fu-Yin group by PCA analysis. Importantly, Qi-Fu-Yin improved the functional diversity of the major KEGG pathways, carbohydrate-active enzymes, and major virulence factors in the intestinal flora of APP/PS1 transgenic mice. Among them, the functions of eight carbohydrate-active enzymes (GT2_Glycos_transf_2, GT4, GT41, GH2, CE1, CE10, CE3, and GH24) and the functions of top three virulence factors (defensive virulence factors, offensive virulence factors and nonspecific virulence factors) were significantly and positively correlated with the level of grasping ability. We further indicated that the Qi-Fu-Yin significantly reduced the plasma levels of IL-6.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that the effects of Qi-Fu-Yin anti-aging of APP/PS1 transgenic mice might be through the regulation of intestinal flora diversity, species richness and the function of major active enzymes.

Gut Microbiota and Time-Restricted Feeding/Eating: A Targeted Biomarker and Approach in Precision Nutrition

Each individual has a unique gut microbiota; therefore, the genes in our microbiome outnumber the genes in our genome by about 150 to 1. Perturbation in host nutritional status influences gut microbiome composition and vice versa. The gut microbiome can help in producing vitamins, hormones, and other active metabolites that support the immune system; harvest energy from food; aid in digestion; protect against pathogens; improve gut transit and function; send signals to the brain and other organs; oscillate the circadian rhythm; and coordinate with the host metabolism through multiple cellular pathways. Gut microbiota can be influenced by host genetics, medications, diet, and lifestyle factors from preterm to aging. Aligning with precision nutrition, identifying a personalized microbiome mandates the provision of the right nutrients at the right time to the right patient. Thus, before prescribing a personalized treatment, it is crucial to monitor and count the gut flora as a focused biomarker. Many nutritional approaches that have been developed help in maintaining and restoring an optimal microbiome such as specific diet therapy, nutrition interventions, and customized eating patterns. One of these approaches is time-restricted feeding/eating (TRF/E), a type of intermittent fasting (IF) in which a subject abstains from food intake for a specific time window. Such a dietary modification might alter and restore the gut microbiome for proper alignment of cellular and molecular pathways throughout the lifespan. In this review, we have highlighted that the gut microbiota would be a targeted biomarker and TRF/E would be a targeted approach for restoring the gut-microbiome-associated molecular pathways such as hormonal signaling, the circadian system, metabolic regulators, neural responses, and immune-inflammatory pathways. Consequently, modulation of the gut microbiota through TRF/E could contribute to proper utilization and availability of the nutrients and in this way confer protection against diseases for harnessing personalized nutrition approaches to improve human health.

Alterations of Spatial Memory and Gut Microbiota Composition in Alzheimer's Disease Triple-Transgenic Mice at 3, 6, and 9 Months of Age

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurological disease. Gut microbial dysbiosis is associated with AD. This study involves the comparative assessment of spatial learning, β-amyloid peptide accumulation, and fecal microbiota alterations in 3×Tg-AD mice from 3 age groups: AD asymptomatic stage (3 m), presymptomatic stage (6 m), and the symptomatic stage of AD (9 m). We demonstrate that spatial memory deficits, brain Aβ accumulation, and weight gain in 3×Tg-AD mice gradually appear after 6 months of age. However, the total gut bacterial counts underwent changes from 3 to 6 months of age and were further altered at 9 months of age. Importantly, changes in gut bacteria abundance of Desulfobacterota and Actinobacteriota phyla in 6-month-old mice preceded apparent spatial memory deficits. In summary, Changes in the gut microbial community are one of the mechanisms of early AD pathology.

Potential mechanisms underlying the accelerated cognitive decline in people with chronic low back pain: A scoping review

A growing body of evidence has shown that people with chronic low back pain (CLBP) demonstrate significantly greater declines in multiple cognitive domains than people who do not have CLBP. Given the high prevalence of CLBP in the ever-growing aging population that may be more vulnerable to cognitive decline, it is important to understand the mechanisms underlying the accelerated cognitive decline observed in this population, so that proper preventive or treatment approaches can be developed and implemented. The current scoping review summarizes what is known regarding the potential mechanisms underlying suboptimal cognitive performance and cognitive decline in people with CLBP and discusses future research directions. Five potential mechanisms were identified based on the findings from 34 included studies: (1) altered activity in the cortex and neural networks; (2) grey matter atrophy; (3) microglial activation and neuroinflammation; (4) comorbidities associated with CLBP; and (5) gut microbiota dysbiosis. Future studies should deepen the understanding of mechanisms underlying this association so that proper prevention and treatment strategies can be developed.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and mental illness: Mechanisms linking mood, metabolism and medicines

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease in the world and one of the leading indications for liver transplantation. It is one of the many manifestations of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome as well as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. There is growing evidence linking the incidence of NAFLD with psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression mechanistically via genetic, metabolic, inflammatory and environmental factors including smoking and psychiatric medications. Indeed, patients prescribed antipsychotic medications, regardless of diagnosis, have higher incidence of NAFLD than population norms. The mechanistic pharmacology of antipsychotic-associated NAFLD is beginning to emerge. In this review, we aim to discuss the pathophysiology of NAFLD including its risk factors, insulin resistance and systemic inflammation as well as its intersection with psychiatric illnesses.

Intermittent fasting and mental and physical fatigue in obese and non-obese rats

Intermittent fasting (IF) is an alternating pattern of restricting eating. This study evaluated mental and physical fatigue secondary to IF (daily 18-hour fast, 7-days-a-week) in the high-fat diet (HFD)-induced male obese Sprague Dawley rats. Fifty-four rats were randomly assigned to a HFD (n = 28) or a standard diet (SD; n = 26). After six weeks, the HFD rats were divided into one of four groups: obese HFD ad libitum (OB-HFD-AL), obese HFD-IF (OB-HFD-IF), obese SD-AL (OB-SD-AL), and obese SD-IF (OB-SD-IF). Similarly, non-obese controls were grouped into HFD-AL (C-HFD-AL), non-obese HFD-IF (C-HFD-IF), non-obese SD-AL (C-SD-AL), and non-obese SD-IF (C-SD-IF). After 2 weeks of IF, mental and physical fatigue were measured using open field (OF) and novel object recognition (NOR) tests. Rats on IF gained weight at a slower pace (p<0.05) and had lower glucose levels (p<0.01) compared to the AL group. In non-obese rats, ketone levels were higher in the IF-HFD group than IF-SD (p<0.05) and AL-SD (p<0.01) animals. Obese rats exhibited elevated blood ketone levels in IF-SD conditions versus AL-SD rats (p<0.01). AL-HFD rats had higher ketone levels than AL-SD animals in both obese and non-obese groups (p<0.05). In conclusion, rats with higher blood ketone levels, whether they were on IF or AL, traveled a greater distance during OF suggesting a lack of physical fatigue. There was no significant difference between IF and AL during NOR indicating a lack of mental fatigue. Thus, IF results in reduced body weight and blood glucose levels but does not induce physical or mental fatigue.

Effect of empagliflozin on cytoskeletal repair in the hippocampus of obese mice

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the effect of empagliflozin on hippocampal phosphorylated protein levels in obese mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixteen obese mice successfully modeled on high-fat diet were randomly divided into high-fat feeding group (group H) and empagliflozin group (group H + empagliflozin, group E), eight mice in each group, and eight C57BL/6J male normal mice were selected as the control group (normal control, group C). Group E was treated with empagliflozin 10 mg/kg/d for 12 weeks, while mice in groups H and C were treated with equal amounts of saline. The spatial learning memory ability of the mice was determined by the Morris water maze experiment. Further, their body weights and serological indices were measured. Finally, total proteins were extracted from hippocampal tissues for functional analysis by the phosphorylated proteomics method.

RESULTS

The results showed that escape latency was prolonged, retention time in the target quadrant was shortened, and the number of loop penetrations was reduced in the obese mice induced by a high-calorie diet compared with normal controls, whereas escape latency was shortened, retention time in the target quadrant was increased, and the number of loop penetrations was increased after empagliflozin treatment. Phosphoproteomics in the high-fat/control (H/C), empagliflozin/high-fat (E/H), and E/C groups showed 844, 1,552, and 1,512 differentially significant phosphorylation sites, respectively. The proteins corresponding to these differentially phosphorylated sites were mainly involved in neurodegenerative pathways and actin cytoskeleton regulation. Notably, myosin heavy chain 10 (MYH10), p21 protein-activated kinase 4 (PAK4), phosphatidylinositol 3 -phosphate 5-kinase (PIKfyve), and other differentially phosphorylated proteins were involved in actin cytoskeleton regulation.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that empagliflozin protects cognitive functions by inducing serine phosphorylation in MYH10, PAK4, and PIKfyve in the hippocampal tissue of obese mice.

Pattern of serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels after acute interval exercise versus acute continuous exercise in obese adolescent females

Obesity has been linked to lower cognitive function, while exercise is known to be beneficial in enhancing the cognitive function. Exercise is also known to increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), as the biological marker of cognitive function. This study aimed to analyse the pattern of serum BDNF levels after acute interval exercise (MIE) versus acute continuous exercise (MCE) in obese adolescent females. A total of 24 obese females were enrolled in this study and given acute interval exercise and acute continuous exercise with moderate intensity. The serum level of BDNF in all samples was quantified using ELISA. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way repeated measures ANOVA, and LSD post-hoc test with a 5% significance level. The results revealed pre-exercise mean serum BDNF levels of 254.17±86.90 pg/ml (Control), 263.21±79.82 pg/ml (MIE) and 266.01±33.29 pg/ml (MCE) (P=0.948). The mean serum BDNF levels at 10 min post-exercise were 248.84±44.42 pg/ml (Control), 397.00±31.36 pg/ml (MIE), and 582.82±79.24 pg/ml (MCE) (P=0.000). The mean serum BDNF levels at 6 h post-exercise were 250.05±70.44 pg/ml (Control), 344.50±68.84 pg/ml (MIE), and 364.42±100.87 pg/ml (MCE) (P=0.029). The mean serum BDNF levels at 24 h post-exercise were 244.20±48.55 pg/ml (Control), 252.49±89.11 pg/ml (MIE), and 250.99±65.86 pg/ml (MCE) (P=0.986). It was concluded that serum BDNF in obese adolescent females increased but transiently. Serum BDNF levels increased by acute exercise in both MIE and MCE at 10 min and 6 h post-exercise. However, serum BDNF level at 24 h post-exercise decreased close to the pre-exercise serum BDNF level in all groups. Further research is needed studying the effect of chronic exercise on the kinetics of serum BDNF levels in obese adolescent females.

Regulation of gut microbiome by ketogenic diet in neurodegenerative diseases: A molecular crosstalk

The gut taxonomical profile is one of the contributory factors in maintaining homeostasis within the central nervous system (CNS). Of late, the efficacy of diet as a target of treatment, and how various dietary interventions may modulate gut microbiota differently have been an area of focus in research. The role of ketogenic diet (KD) in particular has been well-established in other diseases like intractable epilepsy due to its postulated effects on gut microbiome modulation, resulting in neuronal stability and prevention of epileptogenesis. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to critically evaluate the current available literature investigating the interplay between the three distinct entities: ketogenic diet, neurodegeneration, and gut microbiota, which may serve as a focus guide for future neurodegenerative diseases (ND) therapeutic research. A comprehensive literature search was performed on three databases; PubMed, Scopus, and Ovid Medline. A total of 12 articles were selected for critical appraisal, after subjecting to the inclusion and exclusion criteria in this study. The selected articles revealed that the hopes of KD as a treatment modality for ND are being ventured into as these individuals are said to acquire gut dysbiosis, primarily through increased colonization of phyla Proteobacteria and Firmicutes. Although positive effects including restoration of healthy gut microbes such as Akkermansia Muciphilia sp., improvement in cognitive functioning and decline in neuro-inflammatory markers were noted, this systematic review also depicted conflicting results such as decrease in alpha and beta species diversity as well as diminution of healthy gut commensals such as Bifidobacteriace. In addition, positive neuromodulation were also observed, notably an increase in cerebral blood perfusion to ventromedial hippocampal region via increased expression of eNOS and clearance of amyloid-beta proteins across the blood-brain-barrier via expression of p-glycoprotein. Neuroprotective mechanisms of ketogenic diet also included downregulation of mTOR expression, to prevention acceleration of pathological diseases such as Alzheimer's. Thus due to this conflicting/contrasting results demonstrated by ketogenic diet, such as a decline in gut species richness, diminution in beneficial microbes and decline cognition unless delivered in an intermittent fasting pattern, further studies may still be required before prior recommendation of a ketogenic diet therapeutic regime in ND patients.

Mechanistic Role of Jak3 in Obesity-Associated Cognitive Impairments

Background and Aims: A compromise in intestinal mucosal functions is associated with several chronic inflammatory diseases. Previously, we reported that obese humans have a reduced expression of intestinal Janus kinase-3 (Jak3), a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, and a deficiency of Jak3 in mice led to predisposition to obesity-associated metabolic syndrome. Since meta-analyses show cognitive impairment as co-morbidity of obesity, the present study demonstrates the mechanistic role of Jak3 in obesity associated cognitive impairment. Our data show that high-fat diet (HFD) suppresses Jak3 expression both in intestinal mucosa and in the brain of wild-type mice. Methodology: Recapitulating these conditions using global (Jak3-KO) and intestinal epithelial cell-specific conditional (IEC-Jak3-KO) mice and using cognitive testing, western analysis, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence microscopy and 16s rRNA sequencing, we demonstrate that HFD-induced Jak3 deficiency is responsible for cognitive impairments in mice, and these are, in part, specifically due to intestinal epithelial deficiency of Jak3. Results: We reveal that Jak3 deficiency leads to gut dysbiosis, compromised TREM-2-functions-mediated activation of microglial cells, increased TLR-4 expression and HIF1-α-mediated inflammation in the brain. Together, these lead to compromised microglial-functions-mediated increased deposition of β-amyloid (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated Tau (pTau), which are responsible for cognitive impairments. Collectively, these data illustrate how the drivers of obesity promote cognitive impairment and demonstrate the underlying mechanism where HFD-mediated impact on IEC-Jak3 deficiency is responsible for Jak3 deficiency in the brain, reduced microglial TREM2 expression, microglial activation and compromised clearance of Aβ and pTau as the mechanism during obesity-associated cognitive impairments. Conclusion: Thus, we not only demonstrate the mechanism of obesity-associated cognitive impairments but also characterize the tissue-specific role of Jak3 in such conditions through mucosal tolerance, gut–brain axis and regulation of microglial functions.

The role of wheat embryo globulin nutrients in improving cognitive dysfunction in AD rats

Neuroinflammation and intestinal microbiota cause pathological progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), leading to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. This study investigates the effects of wheat embryo globulin nutrient (WEGN) on depression, neuroinflammation, and intestinal microbial disorder caused by AD and its protective mechanism on cognitive impairment. Results demonstrated that rats in the WEGN group have lower feed intake but higher body weight than those in the control group. Notably, rats in the WEGN group have a higher number of cross grids and uprights and a smaller amount of fecal particles than those in the control group. Biochemical examinations revealed that rats in the WEGN group had lower expression of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor α in hippocampus tissue and the expression of genes and proteins related to the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway in AD rats was down-regulated compared to those in the control group. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing results demonstrated that WEGN treatment inhibits the increase of Erysipelotrichaceae, Erysipelatoclostridium, Erysipelotrichaceae, Corynebacterium, and Frisingicoccus, and the reduction of Lactobacillus in AD rats. WEGN has potential value as a practical food in alleviating neuroinflammation-related diseases such as AD.

Overnutrition Induced Cognitive Impairment: Insulin Resistance, Gut-Brain Axis, and Neuroinflammation

Overnutrition-related obesity has become a worldwide epidemic, and its prevalence is expected to steadily rise in the future. It is widely recognized that obesity exerts negative impacts on metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases. However, relatively fewer reports exist on the impairment of brain structure and function, in the form of memory and executive dysfunction, as well as neurogenerative diseases. Emerging evidence indicates that besides obesity, overnutrition diets independently induce cognitive impairments via multiple mechanisms. In this study, we reviewed the clinical and preclinical literature about the detrimental effects of obesity or high-nutrition diets on cognitive performance and cerebral structure. We mainly focused on the role of brain insulin resistance (IR), microbiota-gut-brain axis, and neuroinflammation. We concluded that before the onset of obesity, short-term exposure to high-nutrition diets already blunted central responses to insulin, altered gut microbiome composition, and activated inflammatory mediators. Overnutrition is linked with the changes in protein expression in brain insulin signaling, leading to pathological features in the brain. Microbiome alteration, bacterial endotoxin release, and gut barrier hyperpermeability also occur to trigger mental and neuronal diseases. In addition, obesity or high-nutrition diets cause chronic and low-grade systematic inflammation, which eventually spreads from the peripheral tissue to the central nervous system (CNS). Altogether, a large number of unknown but potential routes interact and contribute to obesity or diet-induced cognitive impairment. The challenge for future research is to identify effective interventions involving dietary shifts and personalized therapy targeting the underlying mechanisms to prevent and improve cognition deficits.

Effect of Tanshinone IIA on Gut Microbiome in Diabetes-Induced Cognitive Impairment

Diabetes-induced cognitive impairment (DCI) presents a major public health risk among the aging population. Previous clinical attempts on known therapeutic targets for DCI, such as depleted insulin secretion, insulin resistance, and hyperglycaemia have delivered poor patient outcomes. However, recent evidence has demonstrated that the gut microbiome plays an important role in DCI by modulating cognitive function through the gut–brain crosstalk. The bioactive compound tanshinone IIA (TAN) has shown to improve cognitive and memory function in diabetes mellitus models, though the pharmacological actions are not fully understood. This study aims to investigate the effect and underlying mechanism of TAN in attenuating DCI in relation to regulating the gut microbiome. Metagenomic sequencing analyses were performed on a group of control rats, rats with diabetes induced by a high-fat/high-glucose diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ) (model group) and TAN-treated diabetic rats (TAN group). Cognitive and memory function were assessed by the Morris water maze test, histopathological assessment of brain tissues, and immunoblotting of neurological biomarkers. The fasting blood glucose (FBG) level was monitored throughout the experiments. The levels of serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured by enzyme-linked immunoassays to reflect the circulatory inflammation level. The morphology of the colon barrier was observed by histopathological staining. Our study confirmed that TAN reduced the FBG level and improved the cognitive and memory function against HFD- and STZ-induced diabetes. TAN protected the endothelial tight junction in the hippocampus and colon, regulated neuronal biomarkers, and lowered the serum levels of LPS and TNF-α. TAN corrected the reduced abundance of Bacteroidetes in diabetic rats. At the species level, TAN regulated the abundance of B. dorei, Lachnoclostridium sp. YL32 and Clostridiodes difficile. TAN modulated the lipid metabolism and biosynthesis of fatty acids in related pathways as the main functional components. TAN significantly restored the reduced levels of isobutyric acid and butyric acid. Our results supported the use of TAN as a promising therapeutic agent for DCI, in which the underlying mechanism may be associated with gut microbiome regulation.

Brain Protection by Methylene Blue and Its Derivative, Azur B, via Activation of the Nrf2/ARE Pathway in Cisplatin-Induced Cognitive Impairment

Cisplatin is a cytotoxic chemotherapeutic drug that leads to DNA damage and is used in the treatment of various types of tumors. However, cisplatin has several serious adverse effects, such as deterioration in cognitive ability. The aim of our work was to study neuroprotectors capable of preventing cisplatin-induced neurotoxicity. Methylene blue (MB) and AzurB (AzB) are able to neutralize the neurotoxicity caused by cisplatin by protecting nerve cells as a result of the activation of the Ntf2 signaling pathway. We have shown that cisplatin impairs learning in the Morris water maze. This is due to an increase in the amount of mtDNA damage, a decrease in the expression of most antioxidant genes, the main determinant of the induction of which is the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, and genes involved in mitophagy regulation in the cortex. The expression of genes involved in long-term potentiation was suppressed in the hippocampus of cisplatin-injected mice. MB in most cases prevented cisplatin-induced impairment of learning and decrease of gene expression in the cortex. AzB prevented the cisplatin-induced decrease of genes in the hippocampus. Also, cisplatin induced disbalance in the gut microbiome, decreased levels of Actinotalea and Prevotella, and increased levels of Streptococcus and Veillonella. MB and AzB also prevented cisplatin-induced changes in the bacterial composition of the gut microbiome.

Danggui-Shaoyao-San Attenuates Cognitive Impairment via the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis With Regulation of Lipid Metabolism in Scopolamine-Induced Amnesia

Danggui-Shaoyao-San (DSS) has a long history of being used as a traditional medicine (TCM) and has been reported to show therapeutic effects in alleviating the symptoms of cognitive impairment. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether DSS treatment attenuates cognitive impairment via the microbiota–gut–brain axis in scopolamine-induced amnesia. In this work, we first performed the Morris water maze (MWM) test and novel object recognition (NOR) test to evaluate the memory function of treated C57BL/6N mice. Then we evaluated 16S rRNA for gut microbiota analysis, as well as assessment of blood–brain barrier function and intestinal barrier function and lipid metabolism analysis on tissues from different groups. We hypothesised that DSS may affect brain function and behavior through the gut–brain axis in a bidirectional interplay with both top-down and bottom-up regulation. Furthermore, in order to confirm whether intestinal flora plays a crucial role in scopolamine-induced amnesia, C57BL/6N mice were treated with fecal microbial transplantation (FMT), and then behavioral tests were performed. The mice’s feces were simultaneously evaluated by 16S rRNA analysis. The result supported that the FMT-induced improvement in cognitive function highlights the role of the gut microbiota–brain axis to mediate cognitive function and behavior. Besides theses works, more findings indicated that DSS altered lipid metabolism by activating LXR-PPAR-γ and repaired mucosal barrier dysfunction assessed with a broad range of techniques, which attenuated cognitive impairment via the microbiota–gut–brain axis.

Dietary Supplement of Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lindl. Polysaccharides Ameliorates Cognitive Dysfunction Induced by High Fat Diet via “Gut-Brain” Axis

Purpose

Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lindl. polysaccharides (ARPs) have been reported to exhibit multiple pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperglycemia. This study aims to investigate the effect of ARPs on cognitive dysfunction induced by high fat diet (HFD).

Methods

Six-week-old male mice were treated with ARPs by dietary supplementation for 14 weeks. The effect of ARPs on cognitive function was determined by assessing the changes in spatial learning and memory ability, neurotrophic factors in hippocampus, inflammatory parameters, intestinal barrier integrity, and gut microbiota.

Results

ARPs supplementation can effectively ameliorate cognitive dysfunction, decrease the phosphorylation levels of Tau protein in hippocampus. Meanwhile, the increased body weight, plasma glucose, total cholesterol, inflammatory factors induced by HFD were abolished by ARPs treatment. Furthermore, ARPs treatment restored the intestinal epithelial barrier as evidenced by upregulation of intestinal tight junction proteins. Additionally, ARPs supplementation significantly decreased the relative abundance of several bacteria genus such as Parabacteroides, which may play regulatory roles in cognitive function.

Conclusion

These results suggest that ARPs might be a promising strategy for the treatment of cognitive dysfunction induced by HFD. Mechanistically, alleviation of cognitive dysfunction by ARPs might be associated with the “gut-brain” axis.

Integrative analysis of multi-omics data to detect the underlying molecular mechanisms for obesity in vivo in humans

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a complex, multifactorial condition in which genetic play an important role. Most of the systematic studies currently focuses on individual omics aspect and provide insightful yet limited knowledge about the comprehensive and complex crosstalk between various omics levels.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Therefore, we performed a most comprehensive trans-omics study with various omics data from 104 subjects, to identify interactions/networks and particularly causal regulatory relationships within and especially those between omic molecules with the purpose to discover molecular genetic mechanisms underlying obesity etiology in vivo in humans.

RESULTS

By applying differentially analysis, we identified 8 differentially expressed hub genes (DEHGs), 14 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and 12 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) for obesity individually. By integrating those multi-omics biomarkers using Mendelian Randomization (MR) and network MR analyses, we identified 18 causal pathways with mediation effect. For the 20 biomarkers involved in those 18 pairs, 17 biomarkers were implicated in the pathophysiology of obesity or related diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

The integration of trans-omics and MR analyses may provide us a holistic understanding of the underlying functional mechanisms, molecular regulatory information flow and the interactive molecular systems among different omic molecules for obesity risk and other complex diseases/traits.

Abdominal Obesity: An Independent Influencing Factor of Visuospatial and Executive/Language Ability and the Serum Levels of Aβ40/Aβ42/Tau Protein

Background

Although obesity affects human health and cognitive function, the influence of abdominal obesity on cognitive function is still unclear.

Methods

The MoCA scale was used to evaluate the overall cognitive function and the function of each subitem of 196 subjects, as well as the SDMT and TMT-A scales for evaluating the attention and information processing speed. In addition, radioimmunoassay was used to detect the serum levels of Aβ40, Aβ42, and tau protein in 45 subjects. Subjects were divided into abdominal and nonabdominal obesity groups. Before and after correcting confounding factors, the differences in cognitive scale evaluation indexes and three protein levels between the two groups were compared. We also explore further the correlation between various cognitive abilities and the waist circumference/levels of the three proteins. Linear regression was used to identify the independent influencing factors of various cognitive functions and three protein levels.

Results

After correcting for multiple factors, we observed the lower scores of visuospatial function, execution, and language in the MoCA scale, as well as higher levels of Aβ40 and tau protein in the abdominal obesity group, supported by the results of correlation analysis. Abdominal obesity was identified as an independent negative influencing factor of MoCA visual space, executive power, and language scores and an independent positive influencing factor of Aβ40, Aβ42, and tau protein levels.

Conclusion

Abdominal obesity may play a negative role in visuospatial, executive ability, and language function and a positive role in the Aβ40, Aβ42, and tau protein serum levels.

Positive Interventional Effect of Engineered Butyrate-Producing Bacteria on Metabolic Disorders and Intestinal Flora Disruption in Obese Mice

The substantially increased prevalence of obesity and obesity-related diseases has generated considerable concern. Currently, synthetic biological strategies have played an essential role in preventing and treating chronic diseases such as obesity. A growing number of symbiotic bacteria used as vectors for genetic engineering have been applied to create living therapeutics. In this study, using Bacillus subtilis as a cellular chassis, we constructed the engineered butyrate-producing strain BsS-RS06551 with a butyrate yield of 1.5 g/liter. A mouse model of obesity induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) was established to study the long-term intervention effects of this butyrate-producing bacteria on obesity. Combined with phenotypic assay results, we found that BsS-RS06551 could effectively retard body weight gain induced by a high-fat diet and visceral fat accumulation of mice, whereas it could improve glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance, reducing liver damage. We explored the BsS-RS06551 mechanism of action on host function and changes in intestinal flora by integrating multiple omics profiling, including untargeted metabolomics and metagenomics. The results showed that 24 major differential metabolites were involved in the metabolic regulation of BsS-RS06551 to prevent obesity in mice, including bile acid metabolism, branch chain amino acids, aromatic amino acids, and other metabolic pathways. Continuous ingestion of BsS-RS06551 could regulate gut microbiota composition and structure and enhance intestinal flora metabolic function abundance, which was closely related to host interactions. Our results demonstrated that engineered butyrate-producing bacteria had potential as an effective strategy to prevent obesity.

IMPORTANCE Obesity is a chronic metabolic disease with an imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure, and obesity-related metabolic diseases have become increasingly common. There is an urgent need to develop effective interventions for the prevention and treatment of obesity. This study showed that long-term consumption of BsS-RS06551 had a significant inhibitory effect on obesity induced by a high-fat diet and was more potent in inhibiting obesity than prebiotic inulin. In addition, this study showed a beneficial effect on host glucose, lipid metabolism, and gut microbe composition. Considering its colonization potential, this engineered bacteria provided a new strategy for the effective and convenient treatment of obesity in the long term.

Body Mass Index and Memory Across 18 Years in the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study

BACKGROUND

Body weight is a modifiable risk factor for dementia, but results have been mixed as to the ages at which normal body weight is markedly preferable to overweight or obesity. This study assessed the association between change in body mass index (BMI) over 2 periods of the life course with change in memory between the ages of 65 and 72 for males and females.

METHODS

Participants were 3 637 White high school graduates, born in 1939, from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study. The statistical analyses were fixed-effects regression models, with moderation terms to test for sex differences. One set of models examined change in BMI between ages 54 and 65, and the other set examined change in BMI between ages 65 and 72. In both cases, cognitive change occurred between ages 65 and 72.

RESULTS

Greater increases in BMI were associated with a greater decline in immediate recall for females only, both contemporaneously and following a lag. Increases in BMI were associated with greater contemporaneous-but not lagged-declines in both delayed recall and digit ordering for both males and females.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study adds to the evidence that for White, high school educated Americans, weight gain in midlife and young-old age is a risk factor for memory decline. Results vary according to the timing of the weight gain, the aspect of memory measured, and participant sex.

Sex Differences in Obesity and Cognitive Function in Chinese Elderly Patients With Chronic Schizophrenia

BACKGROUND

It is well known that schizophrenia is associated with sex differences. However, no study has explored the sex differences in obesity and cognitive function in elderly Chinese patients with schizophrenia.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare sex differences in obesity and cognitive function in elderly Chinese individuals with schizophrenia.

METHODS

A total of 304 elderly patients with schizophrenia and 130 sex- and age-matched healthy controls from the community were recruited. Demographic, clinical, and lipid parameters were collected for all subjects. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was used to assess the global cognitive functions of the participants, while the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was used to assess psychopathological symptoms in patients with schizophrenia.

RESULTS

Of the patients with schizophrenia, the prevalence of obesity in men and women was 11.7% (19/163) and 21.3% (30/141), respectively. The score (14.51 ± 6.504) of MOCA in elderly male patients with schizophrenia was significantly higher than that (11.40 ± 6.822) in female patients. There was a positive correlation between the MOCA scores and body mass index (BMI) (r=0.206, p=0.018) in male elderly patients with schizophrenia. Conversely, the MOCA scores of female elderly patients with schizophrenia did not correlate with BMI (p>0.05). However, we found no sex differences in obesity and cognition among control older adults.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that there are significant sex differences in obesity and cognitive function in elderly Chinese patients with schizophrenia.

The schizophrenia and gut microbiota: A bibliometric and visual analysis

BACKGROUND

Many studies have explored the link between the gut microbiota and schizophrenia. To date, there have been no bibliometric analyses to summarize the association between the gut microbiota and schizophrenia. We aimed to conduct a bibliometric study of this association to determine the current status and areas for advancement in this field.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Publications related to the gut microbiota and schizophrenia were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). The WoSCC literature analysis wire and VOSviewer 1.6.16 were used to conduct the analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 162 publications were included in our study. The publications generally showed an upward trend from 2014. A total of 873 authors from 355 organizations and 40 countries/regions contributed to this field. The leading authors were Timothy Dinan, John F Cryan, and Emily Severance. The leading institutions were Johns Hopkins University, the University College Cork, and the University of Toronto. The most productive countries were the United States (US), China, and Canada. In total, 95 journals contributed to this field. Among them, the top three productive journals were Schizophrenia Research, Progress in Neuro Psychopharmacology Biological Psychiatry, and Frontiers in Psychiatry. The important keywords in the clusters were gut microbiome, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, antipsychotics, weight gain, metabolic syndrome, gut-brain axis, autism, depression, inflammation, and brain.

CONCLUSION

The main research hotspots involving the connection between schizophrenia and the gut microbiota were the characteristics of the microbiota composition in schizophrenia patients, the gut-brain axis, and microbial-based interventions for schizophrenia. The studies about the association between gut microbiota and schizophrenia are limited, and more studies are needed to provide new insights into the gut microbiota in the pathogenesis and treatment of schizophrenia.

Vitamin D mitigates diabetes-associated metabolic and cognitive dysfunction by modulating gut microbiota and colonic cannabinoid receptor 1

INTRODUCTION

Obesity is associated with elevated endocannabinoid tone, gut dysbiosis, and inflammation predisposing to diabetes. The endocannabinoid system mediates the effects of gut microbiota and regulates the gut barrier integrity. We examined the effects of vitamin D (VD) on colonic cannabinoid receptor 1(CB1R), tight junction proteins, gut dysbiosis, metabolic and cognitive dysfunction in a model of type 2 diabetes compared with metformin.

METHODS

Rats received high-fat, high-sucrose diet (HFSD) and either VD (500 IU/kg/day; p.o.), or metformin (200 mg/kg/day; p.o.) for 8 weeks. After 6 weeks, streptozotocin (STZ) (40 mg/kg; i.p) was injected. Behavioral, cognitive, and metabolic assessments were carried out. Finally, fecal, blood, and tissue samples were collected to examine Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio, colonic CB1R, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), occludin, and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4); serum lipopolysaccharides (LPS), peptidoglycan (PGN), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-ɑ), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), lipids, and VD; hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and inflammatory markers.

RESULTS

VD ameliorated HFSD/STZ-induced dysbiosis/gut barrier dysfunction as indicated by lower circulating LPS, PGN and TNF-ɑ levels, likely by downregulating colonic CB1R and upregulating ZO-1 and occludin expressions. Additionally, VD suppressed HFSD/STZ-induced hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia, and hippocampal neuroinflammation. These changes culminated in improved glycemic control and cognitive function. VD was more effective than metformin in decreasing serum LPS and TNF-ɑ levels; whereas metformin resulted in better glycemic control.

CONCLUSION

Targeting gut microbiota by VD could be a successful strategy in the treatment of diabetes and associated cognitive deficit. The crosstalk between VD axis and the endocannabinoid system needs further exploration.

Gut Microbiota and Mycobiota Evolution Is Linked to Memory Improvement after Bariatric Surgery in Obese Patients: A Pilot Study

Patients with obesity are known to exhibit gut microbiota dysbiosis and memory deficits. Bariatric surgery (BS) is currently the most efficient anti-obesity treatment and may improve both gut dysbiosis and cognition. However, no study has investigated association between changes of gut microbiota and cognitive function after BS. We prospectively evaluated 13 obese patients on anthropometric data, memory functions, and gut microbiota-mycobiota before and six months after BS. The Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT) and the symbol span (SS) of the Weschler Memory Scale were used to assess verbal and working memory, respectively. Fecal microbiota and mycobiota were longitudinally analyzed by 16S and ITS2 rRNA sequencing respectively. AVLT and SS scores were significantly improved after BS (AVLT scores: 9.7 ± 1.7 vs. 11.2 ± 1.9, p = 0.02, and SS scores: 9.7 ± 23.0 vs. 11.6 ± 2.9, p = 0.05). An increase in bacterial alpha-diversity, and Ruminococcaceae, Prevotella, Agaricus, Rhodotorula, Dipodascus, Malassezia, and Mucor were significantly associated with AVLT score improvement after BS, while an increase in Prevotella and a decrease in Clostridium, Akkermansia,&nbsp;Dipodascus and Candida were linked to SS scores improvement. We identified several changes in the microbial communities that differ according to the improvement of either the verbal or working memories, suggesting a complex gut-brain-axis that evolves after BS.

Neuroprotective potential of berberine in modulating Alzheimer's disease via multiple signaling pathways

Berberine is one of the most important quinoline alkaloids, which has shown numerous pharmacological activities. There are pieces of evidence that berberine serves as a promising substance for treating Alzheimer's disease (AD). Recently, numerous studies on animal models have shown the neuroprotective role of berberine. AD is a complex disease having multiple pathological factors. Berberine restrains the deposition of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Substantial studies have demonstrated that berberine may also exhibit the protective effect against the risk factors associated with AD. This review illustrates the role of berberine in neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and its activity against acetylcholinesterase enzyme. It also focuses on the bioavailability and safety of berberine in AD. However, more investigations are required to explore the bioavailability and safety assessment of berberine and its new perspectives in limiting the AD-related pathogenesis and risk factors. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Current therapeutic measures only provide symptomatic relief against AD by slowing memory loss, resolving thinking problems and behavioral issues. In recent past years, many biological actions and potential therapeutic applications have been observed by berberine particularly in neurological diseases. Berberine has been investigated by various researchers for its activity against AD. This review demonstrates a variety of mechanisms by which berberine imparts its neuroprotective roles and provides the possible mechanism of action of berberine by which it prevents the formation of neurofibrillary tangles and disaggregation of amyloid beta plaques in AD. It also focuses that berberine limits the neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in AD. Pre-clinical aspects of berberine against AD are also discussed. Eventually, a prospect is formulated that berberine might be a therapeutically significant agent for treating and preventing AD.

Interactions Between the Aging Gut Microbiome and Common Geriatric Giants: Polypharmacy, Frailty, and Dementia

The gut microbiome has pervasive bidirectional relationships with pharmacotherapy, chronic disease, and physical and cognitive function. We conducted a narrative review of the current literature to examine the relationships between the gut microbiome, medication use, sarcopenia and frailty, and cognitive impairment. Data from in vitro experiments, in vivo experiments in invertebrates and complex organisms, and humans indicate associations between the gut microbiome and geriatric syndromes. Better understanding of the direct and indirect roles of the microbiome may inform future prevention and management of geriatric syndromes.

Brain-gut-liver interactions across the spectrum of insulin resistance in metabolic fatty liver disease

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), formerly named "nonalcoholic fatty liver disease" occurs in about one-third of the general population of developed countries worldwide and behaves as a major morbidity and mortality risk factor for major causes of death, such as cardiovascular, digestive, metabolic, neoplastic and neuro-degenerative diseases. However, progression of MAFLD and its associated systemic complications occur almost invariably in patients who experience the additional burden of intrahepatic and/or systemic inflammation, which acts as disease accelerator. Our review is focused on the new knowledge about the brain-gut-liver axis in the context of metabolic dysregulations associated with fatty liver, where insulin resistance has been assumed to play an important role. Special emphasis has been given to digital imaging studies and in particular to positron emission tomography, as it represents a unique opportunity for the noninvasive in vivo study of tissue metabolism. An exhaustive revision of targeted animal models is also provided in order to clarify what the available preclinical evidence suggests for the causal interactions between fatty liver, dysregulated endogenous glucose production and insulin resistance.

Is Obesity Associated with Lower Mini Mental Test Scores among Elderly? A Cross Sectional Study

OBJECTIVES

Obesity leads to many chronic diseases and its association with cognitive impairment is controversial. The objective was to investigate the association between obesity, anthropometric measurements and cognitive functions of elderly.

METHODS

Planned cross-sectionally, community-dwelling Cypriots (aged ≥ 50 years) without any neurological disorders, were included. Cognitive impairment evaluated by Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) was the dependent variable. Socio-demographic variables, anthropometric measurements and obesity were the independent variables. The data was collected via face-to-face interview. Logistic regression models were constituted to determine the association of anthropometric measurements, obesity and dementia.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants (n = 541) was 60.0 ± 8.7 for women (n = 377) and 61.5 ± 6.0 years for men (n = 164). According to MMSE, 26.0% of women and 11.0% of men had mild-dementia, and the rest scored normal. After adjusted for age and sex, each unit increase in BMI (OR: 1.045, 95%CI: 1.008-1.091), Waist to height ratio (WHtR; OR: 1.030, 95%CI: 1.006-1.055) and Mid upper arm circumference (MUAC; OR: 1.077, 95%CI: 1.016-1.141) increases the risk of mild-dementia. When education, employment and smoking were included in the models, significance of anthropometric measurements was diminished and only sex and education were remained significant for all.

CONCLUSION

After controlled for age and sex, increment in anthropometric measurements increased the risk of dementia but when education was taken into consideration, this significant association was diminished showing that sex and education is more predominant in a heterogeneous group in means of education. Thus, for heterogeneous groups it might be better to revise MMSE. To determine the association between obesity and dementia cohort studies with longer follow-up duration with larger samples are needed.

Correlation between ketones and mental fatigue in high fat-induced obese and non-obese rats

Obesity, often caused by a diet high in calories and low physical activity, may induce physical fatigue, as experienced via decreased locomotor activity and mental fatigue such as impaired cognition. This study aims to evaluate glucose and ketone levels secondary to high-fat diet (HFD) exposure and signs of physical and mental fatigue. Fifty-four 7-week-old male Sprague Dawley rats (Rattus norvegicus) were assigned to either an HFD (n = 28) or a standard diet (SD; n = 26) for a 6-week period during which body weight, blood glucose, and ketones were measured twice per week. An open field (OF) paradigm was used to measure locomotor activity, while novel object recognition (NOR) test was used as an indicator of cognition. Animals in the HFD group weighed more than SD rats (8.4 g; p < 0.05) starting at Day 11, blood glucose levels were higher in the HFD group versus SD rats (3.9 mg/dl; p < 0.05) beginning in Week 5, and ketones were lower for the HFD versus the SD group throughout the study (0.34 mmol/L on average; p < 0.05). Although there was no significant difference in locomotor activity between the HFD and SD groups (p = 0.12), regardless of diet, higher ketone levels were associated with increased NOR time and ratio between the familiar and novel objects (p < 0.01). Thus, this study provides evidence that an increased level of ketones is associated with greater cognitive performance and a lesser probability of experiencing mental fatigue.

The neurotherapeutic role of a selenium-functionalized quinoline in hypothalamic obese rats

RATIONALE

Obesity is considered one of the major global health problems and increases the risk of several medical complications, such as diabetes and mental illnesses.

OBJECTIVE

The present study investigated the effect of 7-chloro-4-(phenylselanyl) quinoline (4-PSQ) on obesity parameters, behavioral and neurochemical alterations in hypothalamic obese rats.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats received subcutaneous neonatal injections of monosodium glutamate (MSG, 4g/kg) or saline. After the Lee Index evaluation, rats were divided into groups and treated with 4-PSQ (5 mg/kg, intragastric route) or canola oil once a day (post-natal days (PND) 60→76). Open-field, elevated plus-maze, forced swim task, object recognition/location memory, and stepdown inhibitory avoidance tasks were conducted from PND 66 to 74. On PND 76, rats were euthanized and epididymal fat, blood, cerebral cortex, andhippocampus were removed. Blood biochemical parameters and cortical/hippocampal acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and Na /K -ATPase activities were assessed.

RESULTS

MSG increased the Lee Index characterizing the chemically induced hypothalamic obesity model. 4-PSQ reversed the increases of epididymal fat, blood glucose, and triglyceride levels caused by MSG exposure. 4-PSQ attenuated anxiety-like and depression-like behaviors induced by neonatal administrations of MSG. Memory deficits found in MSG-obese rats were reversed by treatment with 4-PSQ. Neurochemical alterations produced by MSG evidenced by stimulation ofNa⁺/K⁺-ATPase and AChE activities in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of rats were normalized by 4-PSQ treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

In brief, 4-PSQ therapy improved hypothalamic obesity-related parameters, as well as psychiatric symptoms, cognitive impairment, and neurochemical alterations found in obese rats.

The Association of Post-Stroke Cognitive Impairment and Gut Microbiota and its Corresponding Metabolites

BACKGROUND

Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is an important factor causing disabilities after acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Emerging evidence suggested that gut microbiota play an important role in cognitive impairment.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the association between PSCI and gut microbiota.

METHOD

65 patients with newly diagnostic AIS finished the fecal collection on admission and cognitive assessment 3 months later in the clinic. Fecal samples were subjected to 16SrRNA gene sequencing and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Additionally, we enrolled new 18 AIS patients, whose treatment was supplemented by probiotics, to assess the potential of microbial treatment in PSCI.

RESULTS

PSCI patients were characterized by the significantly decreased alpha-diversity, disturbed microbial composition, and corresponding metabolites compared with non-PSCI patients. Increased Fusobacterium and deficiency of microbial metabolized short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were significantly associated with PSCI. A model based on gut microbiota and SCFAs could predict 3 months or longer PSCI early and accurately after stroke onset. While traditional probiotic administration had little effect on PSCI, it could ameliorate patients' mood, including depression and anxiety in the 3 months after stroke.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed the association between PSCI and gut microbiota and its corresponding metabolites for the first time, suggesting the potential for applying microbiota and its corresponding metabolites to early clinical diagnosis and treatment of PSCI.