Protective effect of butyrate against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in mice by promoting the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and mucosal defense mechanisms

The Gastroprotective Effect of Sicyos angulatus Against Hydrochloric Acid/Ethanol-Induced Acute Gastritis and Gastric Ulcer in Mice

Gastritis and gastric ulcers are common gastric diseases that are caused by infection, drugs, alcohol consumption, or stress. These conditions lead to increased inflammatory cytokines and recruitment of leukocytes, which damage the stomach mucosa and exacerbate disease severity. Sicyos angulatus (SA), an annual vine in the Cucurbitaceae family, is known to have an anti-inflammatory effect, but its efficacy for preventing gastritis and gastric ulcers has not yet been evaluated. In the present study, we investigated the gastroprotective effect of SA using a hydrochloric acid/ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury mouse model and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated KATO III cells. Macroscopic analysis revealed a reduction in gastric ulcer area. Similarly, histopathological analysis showed a dose-dependent decrease in gastric mucosal injury, with significant improvement at 750 mg/kg of SA treatment. Gene expressions of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecule were reduced in the SA-administered group. Immunohistochemical staining indicated that SA significantly decreased neutrophil infiltration in the lamina propria and epithelium of the stomach. Kaempferol, a major bioactive flavonoid of SA, also improved gastric injury by reducing macroscopic and microscopic lesions, inflammatory mediator gene expression, and neutrophil infiltration. Furthermore, both SA and kaempferol downregulated LPS-mediated increases in inflammatory cytokines and chemokines following inhibition of p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation in KATO III cells. These results suggest that SA can ameliorate gastric mucosal injury by inhibiting the recruitment of inflammatory cells, particularly neutrophils, and by suppressing p38 and JNK phosphorylation.

Oral administration of Robinia pseudoacacia L. flower exosome-like nanoparticles attenuates gastric and small intestinal mucosal ferroptosis caused by hypoxia through inhibiting HIF-1α- and HIF-2α-mediated lipid peroxidation

The prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal mucosal injury caused by a plateau hypoxic environment is a clinical conundrum due to the unclear mechanism of this syndrome; however, oxidative stress and microbiota dysbiosis may be involved. The Robinia pseudoacacia L. flower, homologous to a functional food, exhibits various pharmacological effects, such as antioxidant, antibacterial, and hemostatic activities. An increasing number of studies have revealed that plant exosome-like nanoparticles (PELNs) can improve the intestinal microbiota and exert antioxidant effects. In this study, the oral administration of Robinia pseudoacacia L. flower exosome-like nanoparticles (RFELNs) significantly ameliorated hypoxia-induced gastric and small intestinal mucosal injury in mice by downregulating hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and HIF-2α expression and inhibiting hypoxia-mediated ferroptosis. In addition, oral RFELNs partially improved hypoxia-induced microbial and metabolic disorders of the stomach and small intestine. Notably, RFELNs displayed specific targeting to the gastrointestinal tract. In vitro experiments using gastric and small intestinal epithelial cell lines showed that cell death caused by elevated HIF-1α and HIF-2α under 1% O2 mainly occurred via ferroptosis. RFELNs obviously inhibited HIF-1α and HIF-2α expression and downregulated the expression of NOX4 and ALOX5, which drive reactive oxygen species production and lipid peroxidation, respectively, suppressing ferroptosis under hypoxia. In conclusion, our findings underscore the potential of oral RFELNs as novel, naturally derived agents targeting the gastrointestinal tract, providing a promising therapeutic approach for hypoxia-induced gastric and small intestinal mucosal ferroptosis.

Rosuvastatin repurposing for prophylaxis against ethanol-induced acute gastric ulceration in rats: a biochemical, histological, and ultrastructural perspective

Ethanol (EtOH) consumption is frequently associated with acute and chronic gastrointestinal disorders. Rosuvastatin (RSV), a third-generation statin, has demonstrated certain biological functions beyond its lipid-lowering properties. This study is designed to explore the gastroprotective impact of RSV in a rat model of EtOH-induced gastric ulceration in a dose-dependent manner through the evaluation of oxidant/antioxidant biomarkers, inflammatory myeloperoxidase (MPO) enzyme activity, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels in gastric tissues, along with histopathological examination of the gastric tissues. Therefore, 40 adult male rats were randomly divided into five equal groups as control, EtOH (gastric ulcer), RSV-low dose plus EtOH and RSV-high dose plus EtOH. The EtOH rat model of gastric ulceration was achieved by intragastric administration of a single dose of EtOH. Seven days before EtOH administration, rats were orally administered either omeprazole (20 mg/kg/day) or RSV (10 mg/kg/day or 20 mg/kg/day). RSV administration enhanced the antioxidant glutathione reduced, countered oxidative malondialdehyde, augmented cytoprotective PGE2, suppressed inflammatory MPO enzyme activity in gastric tissues, decreased ulcer index scoring, increased the percentage of ulcer inhibition, and reversed the associated histological and ultrastructural abnormalities, additionally, RSV treatment resulted in weak positive nuclear staining for the inflammatory nuclear factor kappa B in a dose-dependent manner. It is concluded that RSV demonstrates gastroprotective potential, attributable at least in part, to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to promote ulcer protection through the maintenance of mucosal content and PGE2 levels. Thus, RSV therapy emerges as a safe option for patients with gastric ulcers.

(-)-Fenchone Prevents Cysteamine-Induced Duodenal Ulcers and Accelerates Healing Promoting Re-Epithelialization of Gastric Ulcers in Rats via Antioxidant and Immunomodulatory Mechanisms

BACKGROUND

(-)-Fenchone is a naturally occurring monoterpene found in the essential oils of Foeniculum vulgare Mill., Thuja occidentalis L., and Peumus boldus Molina. Pharmacological studies have reported its antinociceptive, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiarrheal, and antioxidant activities.

METHODS

The preventive antiulcer effects of (-)-Fenchone were assessed through oral pretreatment in cysteamine-induced duodenal lesion models. Gastric healing, the underlying mechanisms, and toxicity after repeated doses were evaluated using the acetic acid-induced gastric ulcer rat model with oral treatment administered for 14 days.

RESULTS

In the cysteamine-induced duodenal ulcer model, fenchone (37.5-300 mg/kg) significantly decreased the ulcer area and prevented lesion formation. In the acetic acid-induced ulcer model, fenchone (150 mg/kg) reduced (p < 0.001) ulcerative injury. These effects were associated with increased levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), interleukin (IL)-10, and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β). Furthermore, treatment with (-)-Fenchone (150 mg/kg) significantly reduced (p < 0.001) malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and nuclear transcription factor kappa B (NF-κB). A 14-day oral toxicity investigation revealed no alterations in heart, liver, spleen, or kidney weight, nor in the biochemical and hematological parameters assessed. (-)-Fenchone protected animals from body weight loss while maintaining feed and water intake.

CONCLUSION

(-)-Fenchone exhibits low toxicity, prevents duodenal ulcers, and enhances gastric healing activities. Antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties appear to be involved in its therapeutic effects.

Syringic acid guards against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer by alleviating inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of syringic acid, an anti-oxidant, on indomethacin induced gastric ulcers in rats. Experimental groups were control, ulcer, ulcer treated with 20 mg/kg esomeprazole (a proton pump inhibitor that reduces acid secretion), and ulcer treated with 100 mg/kg syringic acid. Rats were pretreated with esomeprazole or syringic acid two weeks before ulcer induction. Our histopathological observations showed that either syringic acid or esomeprazole attenuated the severity of gastric mucosal damage. Moreover, syringic acid and esomeprazole pretreatments alleviated indomethacin-induced damage by regulating oxidative stress, inflammatory response, the level of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), expressions of COX and prostaglandin E2, cell proliferation, apoptosis and regulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. We conclude that either esomeprazole or syringic acid administration protected the gastric mucosa from harmful effects of indomethacin. Syringic acid might, therefore be a potential therapeutic agent for preventing and treating indomethacin-induced gastric damage.

Design of floating formulations and antiulcer activity of Desmostachya bipinnata

The study aims to design and optimize the floating formulations of the aqueous extract of Desmostachya bipinnata (ADB) to treat peptic ulcers. The trial concentrations of HPMC E50, HPMC K4M, and Carbopol 940 were used as factors, and floating lag time, total floating time, and % drug release at 12 h were used as responses. The formulation underwent evaluation for different parameters: aspirin-induced ulcers in rats assessed the antiulcer activity, and X-ray studies in rabbits evaluated the gastroretentive nature. The optimized formulation has shown a floating lag time of 32 s and floated in the gastric medium for more than 9 h with a maximum drug release of 93% at the end of 12 h by following the Korsmeyer-Peppas drug release mechanism. The optimized formulation has good flow properties. The FT-IR, DSC, and XRD studies show ADB and excipients didn't show any incompatibility. The formulation has shown significant antiulcer activity against aspirin-induced ulcers in rats, with an ulcer index of 3.38 ± 0.24 and inhibition of 76.67 ± 0.56%. The in vivo X-ray imaging proved the gastric retention of the formulations for more than 8 h. The results of the formulations demonstrate the floating ability and sustained drug release of the tablet responsible for treating peptic ulcers to show a localized effect in the gastric region and to maintain the ROS levels.

Postbiotics: An alternative and innovative intervention for the therapy of inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a persistent gastrointestinal (GI) tract inflammatory disease characterized by downregulated mucosal immune activities and a disrupted microbiota environment in the intestinal lumen. The involvement of bacterium postbiotics as mediators between the immune system and gut microbiome could be critical in determining why host-microbial relationships are disrupted in IBD. Postbiotics including Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), Organic acids, Proteins, Vitamins, Bacteriocins, and Tryptophan (Trp) are beneficial bioactive compounds formed via commensal microbiota in the gut environment during the fermentation process that can be used to improve consumer health. The use of metabolites or fragments from microorganisms can be a very attractive treatment and prevention technique in modern medicine. Postbiotics are essential in the immune system's development since they alter the barrier tightness, and the gut ecology and indirectly shape the microbiota's structure. As a result, postbiotics may be beneficial in treating or preventing various diseases, even some for which there is no effective causative medication. Postbiotics may be a promising tool for the treatment of IBD in individuals of all ages, genders, and even geographical locations. Direct distribution of postbiotics may provide a new frontier in microbiome-based therapy for IBD since it allows both the management of host homeostasis and the correction of the negative implications of dysbiosis. Further studies of the biological effects of these metabolites are expected to reveal innovative applications in medicine and beyond. This review attempts to explore the possible postbiotic-based interventions for the treatment of IBD.

Gastroprotective effects of Machilus zuihoensis Hayata bark against acidic ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in mice

Background and aim

In traditional medicine, Machilus zuihoensis Hayata bark (MZ) is used in combination with other medicines to treat gastric cancer, gastric ulcer (GU), and liver and cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to evaluate the gastroprotective effects and possible mechanism(s) of MZ powder against acidic ethanol (AE)-induced GU and its toxicity in mice.

Experimental procedure

The gastroprotective effect of MZ powder was analyzed by orally administering MZ for 14 consecutive days before AE-inducing GU. Ulcer index (UI) and protection percentage were calculated, hematoxylin and eosin staining and periodic acid-Schiff staining were performed, and gastric mucus weights were measured. The antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms, and possible signaling pathway(s) were studied.

Results and conclusion

Pretreatment with MZ (100 and 200 mg/kg) significantly decreased 10 μL/g AE-induced mucosal hemorrhage, edema, inflammation, and UI, resulted in protection percentages of 88.9% and 93.4%, respectively. MZ pretreatment reduced AE-induced oxidative stress by decreasing malondialdehyde level and restoring superoxide dismutase activity. MZ pretreatment demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by reducing both serum and gastric tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β levels. Furthermore, MZ pretreatment exhibited anti-apoptotic effect by decreasing Bcl-2 associated X protein/B-cell lymphoma 2 ratio. The gastroprotective mechanisms of MZ involved inactivations of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. Otherwise, 200 mg/kg MZ didn't induce liver or kidney toxicity. In conclusion, MZ protects AE-induced GU through mucus secreting, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms, and inhibitions of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

Hericium erinaceus, a medicinal fungus with a centuries-old history: Evidence in gastrointestinal diseases

Hericium erinaceus is an edible and medicinal mushroom commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Several studies have highlighted its therapeutic potential for gastrointestinal disorders such as gastritis and inflammatory bowel diseases. In addition, some components of this mushroom appear to possess strong antineoplastic capabilities against gastric and colorectal cancer. This review aims to analyse all available evidence on the digestive therapeutic potential of this fungus as well as the possible underlying molecular mechanisms.

Therapeutic strategies of small molecules in the microbiota-gut-brain axis for alcohol use disorder

The microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) is important in maintaining the structure and function of the central nervous system (CNS) and is regulated by the CNS environment and signals from the peripheral tissues. However, the mechanism and function of the MGBA in alcohol use disorder (AUD) are still not completely understood. In this review, we investigate the underlying mechanisms involved in the onset of AUD and/or associated neuronal deficits and create a foundation for better treatment (and prevention) strategies. We summarize recent reports focusing on the alteration of the MGBA in AUD. Importantly, we highlight the properties of small-molecule short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), neurotransmitters, hormones, and peptides in the MGBA and discusses their usage as therapeutic agents against AUD.

Bifidobacterium animalis A12 and Lactobacillus salivarius M18-6 Alleviate Alcohol Injury by keap1-Nrf2 Pathway and Thioredoxin System

Excessive drinking can significantly damage people's health and well-being. Although some lactic acid bacterial strains have been previously shown to alleviate the symptoms of alcohol injury, the mechanism underlying these effects remains unclear. The aim of this study was to establish an alcohol injury model and examine the protective effect and mechanism of B. animalis A12 and L. salivarius M18-6. The results showed that A12 freeze-dried powder could maintain the survival rate of mice with alcohol injury at 100%. Compared with Alco group, L. salivarius M18-6 dead cell improved the survival rate of mice, attenuated liver steatosis, and significantly down-regulated serum Alanine transaminase (ALT) level; at the same time, it activated keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway and up-regulated Superoxide dismutase (SOD), it protects mouse liver cells from oxidative stress induced by alcohol injury. In addition, B. animalis A12 can reduce the stress response to short-term alcohol intake and improve the ability of anti-oxidative stress by upregulating the level of isobutyric acid, reducing the level of keap1 protein in the liver of mice and upregulating the expression of thioredoxin genes (Txnrd1, Txnrd3, Txn1). Taken together, the results showed that B. animalis A12 and L. salivarius M18-6 alleviate alcohol injury in mice through keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway and thioredoxin system.

Sodium butyrate attenuates peritoneal fibroproliferative process in mice

NEW FINDINGS

What is the central question of this study? Peritoneal injury can result in a persistent fibroproliferative process in the abdominal cavity, causing pain and loss of function of internal organs. This study aimed to demonstrate the use of sodium butyrate (NaBu) as a potential agent to attenuate peritoneal fibrosis induced by a synthetic matrix. What is the main finding and its importance? Our findings provide the first evidence that NaBu attenuates the inflammatory, angiogenesis and fibrogenesis axes involved in the formation of peritoneal fibrovascular tissue, indicating the potential of this compound to ameliorate peritoneal fibrosis.

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to identify the bio-efficacy of sodium butyrate (NaBu) on preventing the development of peritoneal fibrovascular tissue induced by implantation of a synthetic matrix in the abdominal cavity. Polyether-polyurethane sponge discs were implanted in the peritoneal cavity of mice, which were treated daily with oral administration of NaBu (100 mg/kg). Control animals received water (100 μl). After 7 days, the implants were removed for assessment of inflammatory, angiogenic and fibrogenic markers. Compared with control values, NaBu treatment decreased mast cell recruitment/activation, inflammatory enzyme activities, levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the proteins p65 and p50 of the nuclear factor-κB pathway. Angiogenesis, as determined by haemoglobin content, vascular endothelial growth factor levels and the number of blood vessels in the implant, was reduced by the treatment. In NaBu-treated animals, the predominant collagen present in the abdominal fibrovascular tissue was thin collagen, whereas in control implants it was thick collagen. Transforming growth factor-β1 levels were also lower in implants of treated animals. Sodium butyrate downregulated the inflammatory, angiogenesis and fibrogenesis axes of the fibroproliferative tissue induced by the intraperitoneal synthetic matrix. This compound has potential to control/regulate chronic inflammation and adverse healing processes in the abdominal cavity.

Protective Effect of Foxtail Millet Protein Hydrolysate on Ethanol and Pyloric Ligation-Induced Gastric Ulcers in Mice

Foxtail millet has been traditionally considered to possess gastroprotective effects, but studies evaluating its use as a treatment for gastric ulcers are lacking. Here, we assessed the antiulcer effects of foxtail millet protein hydrolysate (FPH) and explored its mechanism by using blocking agents. In a mouse model of ethanol-induced gastric ulcers, pretreatment with FPH reduced the ulcerative lesion index, downregulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the gastric tissue, increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes, and improved the oxidative status. FPH increased constitutive the activity of nitric oxide synthase (cNOS), NO levels, and mucin expression in gastric mucosa, and inhibited the activation of the ET-1/PI3K/Akt pathway. In a mouse model of pyloric ligation-induced gastric ulcers, FPH inhibited gastric acid secretion and decreased the activity of gastric protease. Pretreatment of mice with the sulfhydryl blocker NEM and the NO synthesis inhibitor L-NAME abolished the gastroprotective effect of FPH, but not the KATP channel blocker glibenclamide and the PGE2 synthesis blocker indomethacin. Among the peptides identified in FPH, 10 peptides were predicted to have regulatory effects on the gastric mucosa, and the key sequences were GP and PG. The results confirmed the gastroprotective effect of FPH and revealed that its mechanism was through the regulation of gastric mucosal mucus and NO synthesis. This study supports the health effects of a millet-enriched diet and provides a basis for millet protein as a functional food to improve gastric ulcers and its related oxidative stress.

Sodium butyrate pretreatment mitigates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation through the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in bovine embryo trachea cells

The present study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects and potential mechanisms of sodium butyrate (SB) in bovine embryo tracheal cells (EBTr) stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). EBTr were exposed to either 1 mmol/L SB for 18 h for the SB group (SB) or to 0.4 μg/mL LPS for 6 h for the LPS group (LPS). PBS was added to EBTr for a control group (CON). EBTr were pretreated with SB for 18 h followed by 6 h of LPS stimulation for the LSB group (LSB). Results showed that with LPS stimulation, the gene expression of TLR4, NF-κB, IL6, and IL8, as well as cytokine production of IL6 and TNF-α, were significantly increased compared with the CON group. In contrast, protein expression of IL10 was decreased. However, these inflammatory effects induced by LPS were reversed in the LSB group. Compared with the CON group, protein expression of TLR4, phospho-NF-κB p65, phospho-IκBα, and IL1α were increased in the LPS group and these were decreased in the LSB group. Similarly, increased nuclear translocation of phospho-NF-κB p65 in the LPS group was suppressed with SB pretreatment. In conclusion, SB can reduce inflammation induced by LPS in EBTr, and this positive effect is mediated through the TLR4 and NF-κB signaling pathway.

Specific activation of hypoxia-inducible factor-2α by propionate metabolism via a β-oxidation-like pathway stimulates MUC2 production in intestinal goblet cells

Microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are known to stimulate mucin expression in the intestine, which contributes to the gut mucosal immune responses, and the gut mucosal immune system extends to the brain and other organs through several axes. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), especially HIF-1α, are known to act as the master regulator of mucin expression, however, underlying mechanism of mucin expression during hypoxia by SCFAs remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of MUC2 expression by propionate, an SCFA, in intestinal goblet cells. The real time oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and ATPase activity were measured to investigate the induction of hypoxia by propionate. Using 2-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE), microarray analysis, and siRNA-induced gene silencing, we found that propionate is metabolized via a β-oxidation-like pathway instead of the vitamin B₁₂-dependent carboxylation pathway (also known as the methylmalonyl pathway). We verified the results by analyzing several intermediates in the pathway using LC-MS and GC-MS. Propionate metabolism via the β-oxidation-like pathway leads to the depletion of oxygen and thereby induces hypoxia. Analysis of HIFs revealed that HIF-2α is the primary HIF whose activation is induced by propionate metabolism in a hypoxic environment and that HIF-2α regulates the expression of MUC2. Thus, hypoxia induced during propionate metabolism via a β-oxidation-like pathway specifically activates HIF-2α, stimulating MUC2 production in LS 174 T goblet cells. Our findings show that propionate-induced selective HIF-2α stimulation contributes to intestinal mucosal defense.

Atractylone Alleviates Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rat with Altered Gut Microbiota and Metabolites

Background

Gastric ulcer (GU) is the most common multifactor gastrointestinal disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. There is evidence that gut microbiota is closely related to the development of GU. Atractylone (ATR) has been reported to possess potential biological activities, but research on ATR alleviating GU injury is unprecedented.

Methods

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-induced GU model in zebrafish and ethanol-induced acute GU model in rat were established to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and ulcer inhibitory effects of ATR. Then, 16S rRNA sequencing and metabolomics analysis were performed to investigate the effect of ATR on the microbiota and metabolites in rat feces and their correlation.

Results

Therapeutically, ATR inhibited H. pylori-induced gastric mucosal injury in zebrafish. In the ulceration model of rat, ATR mitigated the gastric lesions damage caused by ethanol, decreased the ulcer area, and reduced the production of inflammatory factors. Additionally, ATR alleviated the gastric oxidative stress injury by increasing the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and decreasing the level of malondialdehyde (MDA). Furthermore, ATR played a positive role in relieving ulcer through reshaping gut microbiota composition including Parabacteroides and Bacteroides and regulating the levels of metabolites including amino acids, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and bile acids.

Conclusion

Our work sheded light on the mechanism of ATR treating GU from the perspective of the gut microbiota and explored the correlation between gut microbiota, metabolites, and host phenotype.

Genes vs environment in inflammatory bowel disease: an update

INTRODUCTION

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are known to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors that vary in their influence on the development of the disease. Environmental exposures seem to influence IBD susceptibility, whereas genetic background is thought to modulate the impact of the environment on disease course and phenotype.

AREAS COVERED

A broad review of the involvement of genes and the environment in IBD pathogenesis was performed, and information regarding the main genetic and environmental factors - categorized into lifestyle factors, drugs, diet, and microbes - was updated. Monogenic very early onset IBD (VEO-IBD) was also discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

In the upcoming years, better understanding of gene-environment interactions will contribute to the possibility of a better prediction of disease course, response to therapy, and therapy-related adverse events with the final goal of personalized and more efficient patient management.

Probiotics for the Treatment of Gastric Diseases

Common gastric diseases include chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers and gastric cancer. The etiology of gastric diseases is complicated, including genetics, diet, excessive smoking and drinking, environmental factors, and bacterial infections. As live microorganisms, probiotics can confer health benefits to the host. At present, probiotics have been widely used in the preparation of foods, health products, and medicines. Due to their positive effects in improving diarrhea, constipation, alleviating allergies, enhancing immunity, and maintaining intestinal homeostasis, studies worldwide have focused on whether probiotics also provide therapeutic effects on gastric diseases. Thus, this review summarizes the possible mechanism of probiotics in the treatment of gastric diseases and provides a reference for expanding not only their application but also that of other microecological agents.

Evaluation of Gastroprotective Effect from Phaleria macrocarpa Fruits Extract on Gastric Ulcer in Male Wistar Rats

Abstract   BACKGROUND: The long-term use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) triggers gastric mucosal damage and causes ulcers. Meanwhile, studies showed that God's crown fruit (Phaleria macrocarpa) contains secondary metabolites of flavonoids and tannins that can protect the gastric mucosa. AIM: This study aims to determine the gastroprotective effect of P. macrocarpa ethanolic extracts against gastric ulcers in rats induced with acetosal and ethanol. The extracts were obtained by maceration method using 96% ethanol as solvent. METHODS: The male rats used were divided into 7 groups for each test with ethanol and acetosal induction. Each group consisted of 5 rats, namely normal control, induction, carrier, positive control (sucralfate 360 mg/kg BW and omeprazole 3.6 mg/kg BW), and extract doses 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight. All groups were given treatment for 7 days except normal and induction controls. On day 6, rats were fasted for 36 hours and induced with acetosal/ethanol. In ethanol induction, the animal was sacrificed after 10 hours of immersion while in acetosal, the animal was sacrificed 6 hours later. The stomach section was taken for macroscopic, microscopic parameters and gastric acid secretion examination. RESULTS: The results of phytochemical screening showed that the extract contained flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, and glycosides. In acetosal-induced ulcers, the administration of one dose of the extract reduced the number and score of ulcers, repair epithelial cells, increase pH, and total gastric acidity. Furthermore, the percentage of ulcer inhibition at the extract dose of 400 mg/kg BW was 91.91±3.74% in ethanol induction, and 59±13.08% in acetosal. CONCLUSION: The ethanolic extract of P. macrocarpa has a gastroprotective effect on acetosal-induced gastric ulcer rats.   Keywords: Phaleria macrocarpa, Mahkota Dewa fruit, gastroprotective, gastric ulcers, extract

Role of Gastric Microorganisms Other than Helicobacter pylori in the Development and Treatment of Gastric Diseases

The microenvironment in the stomach is different from other digestive tracts, mainly because of the secretion of gastric acid and digestive enzymes, bile reflux, special mucus barrier, gastric peristalsis, and so on, which all contribute to the formation of antibacterial environment. Microecological disorders can lead to gastric immune disorders or lead to the decrease of dominant bacteria and the increase of the abundance and virulence of pathogenic microorganisms and then promote the occurrence of diseases. The body performs its immune function through innate and adaptive immunity and maintains microbial balance through the mechanism of immune homeostasis. Microecological imbalance can lead to the invasion of pathogenic microorganisms and damage mucosal barrier and immune system. The coexistence of gastric microorganisms (including viruses and fungi) may play a synergistic or antagonistic role in the pathogenesis of gastric diseases. Probiotics have the ability to compete with intestinal pathogens, increase the secretion of immunoglobulin A (IgA), stimulate the production of mucin, bacteriocin, and lactic acid, regulate the expression and secretion of cytokines, and regulate the growth of microbiota, which all have beneficial effects on the host microbial environment. At present, most studies focused on Helicobacter pylori, ignoring other stomach microbes and the overall stomach microecology. So, in this article, we reviewed advances in human gastric microecology, the relationship between gastric microecology and immunity or gastric diseases, and the treatment of probiotics in gastric diseases, in order to explore new area for further study of gastric microorganisms and treatment of gastric diseases.

Sequential loading of inclusion complex/nanoparticles improves the gastric retention of Vladimiriae Radix essential oil to promote the protection of acute gastric mucosal injury

The essential oil from Vladimiriae Radix (VEO) is a medicinal natural product with anti-ulcer activity. A novel gastroretentive drug delivery system was developed by preparing the hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) inclusion complex incorporated into chitosan nanoparticles (V-CD/NPs), to improve the bioavailability of VEO and its protective effect on gastric mucosa. The optimum preparation process of V-CD/NPs was obtained by Plackett-Burman and Box-Behnken response surface methodology. The resulting V-CD/NPs gained a suitable positive potential and small particle size, and showed stability in simulated gastric fluid, whose morphology and in vitro drug release profiles had a pH-sensitivity. Besides, V-CD/NPs was proved to strongly bind with mucin, and in vivo imaging revealed that it could be retained in the stomach for more than 8 h. The results of drug concentration in gastric tissues showed that the sequential loading of inclusion complex/nanoparticles promoted the local absorption of VEO in gastric tissues, which was favorable to reach the effective therapeutic concentration in the lesioned mucosa area. In comparison to VEO and V-CD, the callback effect of V-CD/NPs on 1L-1β, 1L-6, TNF-α, NF-κB, MDA and SOD was comparable to cimetidine, and V-CD/NPs outperformed in gastric mucosal protection. Therefore, the gastroretentive drug delivery system developed in our study effectively enhanced the anti-ulcer activity of VEO, which could be a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of the acute gastric mucosal injury.

Evaluation of antioxidant and anti-ulcerogenic effects of Eremurus persicus (Jaub & Spach) Boiss leaf hydroalcoholic extract on ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and protective effect of E. persicus leaf hydroalcoholic extract (EPE) in preventing gastric ulcers induced by ethanol in rats. Wistar rats weighing 180-220 g were randomly divided into five groups. These groups included negative control (normal) group, positive control (ethanolic) group, comparative control (ranitidine recipient) group, group recipient the dose of 250 mg/kg plant extract, and group recipient the dose of 500 mg/kg plant extract. One hour after gavage of the drug and extract, the gastric ulcer was induced by feeding 1 ml of 96% ethanol to each animal except the rats of the negative control group. After one hour, the rats were killed, and their stomachs were separated. Then, the gastric Ulcer index (UI), pH, oxidative stress parameters, and histopathological changes in the stomach of all groups were measured. Pre-treatment of ethanol-induced rats with the EPE reduced (P < 0.05) the ulcer index and gastric juice pH, compared to ethanolic group rats. Furthermore, pre-treatment with EPE at a dose-dependent manner, alleviated the gastric oxidative stress injury in rats through increase the activity of CAT, tissue NO^· and GSH levels. EPE also was able to decrease the levels of ROS, MDA, PCO and serum NO^·. According to the results, it can be concluded that pre-treatment with EPE prevents the formation of gastric ulcers caused by ethanol, which can be attributed to the antioxidant activity of plant polyphenols compounds.

Development of a compound oral liquid containing herbal extracts and its effect on immunity and gastric mucosa

Nowadays, consumers have an increasing demand for health products. In this study, an oral liquid was developed using a compound extract consisting of three herbal extracts (Dendrobium nobile Lindl., Lycium barbarum, and Puerariae lobatae Radix) because the compound extract (a combination of all three extracts) was superior to every single extract in promoting the phagocytic capacity of RAW264.7 macrophages and the proliferation ability of GES-1 cells. In this oral liquid, the dosage of the stabilizer and the sweetener was selected using a stability test and sensory quality evaluation. When 0.30% (m/v) xanthan gum and 0.20% (m/v) mogroside were added, the oral liquid had not only a good stability but also the highest sensory score for overall acceptability. The chemical composition analysis showed that the oral liquid had various functional ingredients including polysaccharides, phenols, alkaloids, and so forth. The immune-enhancing efficacy of the oral liquid was evaluated in BALB/c mice by measuring the levels of different immune indicators. The results indicated that the oral liquid obviously enhanced nonspecific and specific immunity. A rat model with ethanol-induced gastric ulcer was used to examine the protective effect of the oral liquid on the gastric mucosa and to explore the related mechanisms. The oral administration of the oral liquid for days significantly prevented the formation of gastric ulcer. This study provided an effective oral liquid that could enhance immunity and protect gastric mucosa.

Polygonum hydropiper extract attenuates ethanol-induced gastric damage through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways

The present study was conducted to investigate the underlying mechanisms and effective components of Polygonum hydropiper in ethanol-induced acute gastric mucosal lesions. The ethanol extract was purified on an AB-8 macroporous resin column and eluted with 60% ethanol and was then injected into the HPLC system for quantitative analysis. Sprague-Dawley rats were orally pretreated with P. hydropiper extract (PHLE; 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) for 5 days and then absolute ethanol was administered to induce gastric mucosal damage. One hour after ethanol ingestion, the rats were euthanized and stomach samples were collected for biochemical analysis. Antioxidant enzymes and anti-inflammatory cytokines were quantified. Western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of proteins. Cell proliferation was assayed by CCK-8 assays. The proportion of total flavonoids in the final extract of P. hydropiper was 50.05%, which contained three major bioactive flavonoid constituents, including rutin, quercitrin, and quercetin. PHLE significantly increased cell viability and effectively protected human gastric epithelial cells-1 against alcohol-induced damage in vitro. PHLE pretreatment attenuated gastric mucosal injuries in a dose-dependent manner in rats, and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione, and decreased the levels of malondialdehyde in gastric tissue. Pretreatment with PHLE also reduced the generation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β in gastric tissue by downregulating the expression of nuclear factor-kappa B. PHLE exerted protective effects against gastric injury through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways. Flavonoids might be the main effective components of P. hydropiper against gastric mucosal injury.

Short-chain fatty acid butyrate: A novel shield against chronic gastric ulcer

Butyrate is one of the most abundant short-chain fatty acids produced by intestinal bacteria. In the present study, the action of butyrate on chronic gastric mucosa lesions was investigated, as well as its underlying mechanism in mice. Male mice from the Institute of Cancer Research were randomly divided into three groups: Sham, model and butyrate groups. Butyrate was administered intragastrically for 7 days to butyrate group mice following the establishment of a gastric ulcer model. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemical analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and quantitative polymerase chain reaction were used to determine the therapeutic effects and molecular mechanism of butyrate treatment. The findings demonstrated that butyrate induced a marked shift in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, along with a decrease in malondialdehyde levels, thereby attenuating oxidative stress. Furthermore, butyrate decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β, tumour necrosis factor-α and leukotriene B4, which helped combat inflammatory responses. Moreover, butyrate treatment exerted remarkable positive influences that mediate an increase in 6-keto-PGF-1α (a degradation product of prostacyclin), trefoil factor 2, MUC5AC and fibroblast growth factor-7 levels to promote gastric mucosal repair. The expression of specific receptor GPR109A for butyrate was upregulated, with no significant difference noted in the expression of GPR43 or GPR41. Overall, the present findings revealed that butyrate exerted therapeutic effects by upregulating mucosal repair factors and stimulating protective responses against oxidation and inflammation. GPR109A may be the key receptor for butyrate therapy.

Lactate as a metabolite from probiotic Lactobacilli mitigates ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury: an in vivo study

Background

Pre-administration of probiotic Lactobacilli attenuates ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury (GMI). The underpinning mechanisms remain to be elucidated. We speculated that lactate, the main metabolite of Lactobacillus that can be safely used as a common food additive, mediated the gastroprotective effect. This study aimed to gain experimental evidence to support our hypothesis and to shed lights on its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Lactate was orally administrated to mice at different doses 30 min prior to the induction of GMI. Gastric tissue samples were collected and underwent histopathological and immunohistochemical assessments, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blot analyses.

Results

Pretreatment with lactate at 1–3 g/kg significantly curtailed the severity of ethanol-induced GMI, as shown by morphological and histopathological examinations of gastric tissue samples. Significantly lower level of cytokines indicative of local inflammation were found in mice receiving lactate treatment prior to ethanol administration. Western-blot, immunohistochemical analysis and qPCR suggested that gastroprotective properties of lactate were mediated by its modulatory effects on the expression of the apoptosis regulator gene Bax, the apoptotic executive protein gene Casp3, and genes critical for gastric mucosal integrity, including those encoding tight junction proteins Occludin, Claudin-1, Claudin-5, and that for lactate receptor GPR81.

Conclusion

Lactate mitigates ethanol-induced GMI by curtailing local gastric inflammatory response, down-regulating the expression of the apoptosis regulator and executor genes Bax and Casp3, and up-regulating the expression of genes encoding tight junction proteins Occludin, Claudin-1, and Claudin-5 and the lactate receptor GPR81.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-020-03198-7.

Association of Dietary Fiber, Fruit, and Vegetable Consumption with Risk of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

No previous investigation has summarized findings from prospective cohort studies on the association between dietary intake of fiber, fruit, and vegetables and risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Dietary fiber and its major sources can influence the risk of IBD by modulation of the gut microbiota. This study summarizes findings from published cohort studies on the association between dietary fiber, fruit, and vegetable consumption and risk of IBD. Relevant articles published up to January 2019 were searched via PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. All prospective cohort studies investigating the association between dietary fiber, fruit, and vegetable intake and risk of IBD were included. Combining 7 effect sizes from 6 studies, no significant association was found between dietary intake of fiber and risk of ulcerative colitis (UC) (RR: 1.09; 95% CI: 0.88, 1.34). However, a significant inverse association was found between dietary fiber intake and risk of Crohn disease (CD) (RR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.46, 0.74), based on 5 studies with 6 effect sizes. Pooling information from 4 studies, we found a significant protective association between dietary intake of fruit and risk of UC (RR: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.55, 0.86) and CD (RR: 0.47; 95% CI: 0.38, 0.58). We also found a significant inverse association between vegetable consumption and risk of UC (RR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.48, 0.66) and CD (RR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.46, 0.59). In conclusion, dietary intake of fruit and vegetables was inversely associated with risk of IBD and its subtypes. Dietary fiber intake was also inversely associated with incidence of IBD and CD, but not with UC. Further studies are warranted to examine the association of other fiber-rich foods with IBD.

Antiulcer Activity of Steamed Ginger Extract against Ethanol/HCl-Induced Gastric Mucosal Injury in Rats

Ginger (Zingiber officianale), the most widely consumed species, is traditionally used as a folk medicine to treat some inflammatory diseases in China and Korea. However, the functional activity of steamed ginger extract on gastric ulcers has not been previously explored. The present study aimed to investigate antiulcer activity of steamed ginger extract (GGE03) against ethanol (EtOH)/HCl-induced gastric ulcers in a rat model. GGE03 (100 mg/kg) was orally administered for 14 days to rats before oral intubation of an EtOH/HCl mixture to induce gastric damage. Pretreatment with GGE03 markedly protected the formation of microscopic pathological damage in the gastric mucosa. Further, administration of GGE03 significantly increased mucosal total nitrate/nitrite production in gastric tissues, and elevated total GSH content, catalase activity and superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression as well as decreasing lipid peroxidation and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Underlying protective mechanisms were examined by assessing inflammation-related genes, including nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels. GGE03 administration significantly reduced the expression of NF-κB and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Our findings suggest that GGE03 possesses antiulcer activity by attenuating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses.

Effects of Paeonol and Gastroretention Tablets of Paeonol on Experimental Gastric Ulcers and Intestinal Flora in Rats

Paeonol, a major ingredient isolated from Moutan Cort, has various pharmacological effects. Our previous studies have shown that paeonol can exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapeutic effects on ethanol-induced experimental gastric ulcer (GU). Therefore, in this study, we designed two GU models in rats induced by pyloric ligation (PL) and acetic acid and evaluated the protective effects of paeonol and gastroretention tablets of paeonol (GRT-Ps; 24, 48, and 96 mg/kg) on GU in rats and the effect of paeonol (48 mg/kg) on the intestinal flora. In vivo experiments showed that paeonol or GRT-Ps remarkably reduced gastric mucosal damage in a dose-dependent manner in the different types of models and improved the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and the malondialdehyde (MDA) content. And in fact, the sustained-release effect of GRT-Ps is more conducive to the improvement of GU compared with the rapid clearance of free drugs. In the PL-induced model, gastric secretion parameters, that is, pH and total acid, showed significant differences compared with the model group. In addition, paeonol treatment can improve the richness and diversity of the intestinal flora and increase the amount of beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus. Paeonol and its stable sustained-release tablet GRT-Ps can promote ulcer healing by inhibiting oxidative stress and regulating the intestinal flora. This study can provide basis for the clinical treatment of GU with paeonol. Graphical Abstract.

Research on the structural characteristics of a novel Chinese Iron Yam polysaccharide and its gastroprotection mechanism against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesion in a BALB/c mouse model

In this study, a triple-helix Chinese Iron Yam polysaccharide (CIYP) with a molecular weight of 1.67 × 10³ kDa was obtained. The CIYP was extracted with deionized water followed by deproteination, decoloration and purification using anion-exchange chromatography and size exclusion chromatography. Its structural characteristics and micromorphology were investigated by GC-MS, periodate oxidation and Smith degradation, FT-IR, NMR spectroscopy, SEM and AFM. The results showed that CIYP is a catenarian polysaccharide composed of rhamnose, arabinose, mannose, glucose, galactose and galacturonic acid in the ratio of 1 : 1.33 : 8.31 : 2.83 : 1.12 : 2.62. Meanwhile, the gastric mucosa protective effect of CIYP on an ethanol-injured BALB/c mouse model was investigated. It was found that the preventive CIYP-treatment groups (200 and 400 mg kg^-1 d^-1) showed gastric mucosa protective effects on the BALB/c mouse model. The lesion index and lesion inhibition rate of the CIYP and cimetidine treatment groups were significantly altered compared with the ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesion (GML) group. Moreover, the administration of CIYP showed definite effects of increasing the NO, PGE2 and EGF levels, and SOD activities, and reducing the MDA levels of gastric mucosa tissues to prevent gastric oxidative stress. Histopathological analysis indicated that the microscopic morphology of gastric mucosal tissues was changed after being damaged by ethanol and the damage was significantly reduced after CIYP administration. Finally, the western blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) results provided comprehensive evidence that the CIYP could repress gastric inflammation through the reduction of IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6, prevent gastric oxidative stress through the inhibition of lipid peroxides, and favor cell survival via downregulating the TAK1, MKK3, P-p38 and Bax levels and upregulating the protein expression levels, compared with the CIM group.

Effect of sodium butyrate on gastric ulcer aggravation and hepatic injury inflicted by bile duct ligation in rats

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Cholestasis is positively associated with an increased risk of peptic ulceration. The present study investigated the aggravating effect of cholestasis on piroxicam-induced gastric ulceration. The study also evaluated the effect of sodium butyrate (SoB) on piroxicam-induced gastric ulceration in cholestatic animals and its effect on hepatic tissues and both effects were compared to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) as a standard anticholestatic drug.

METHODS

Bile duct ligation was adopted for induction of cholestasis in rats. The cholestatic animals received saline, SoB (P.O, 400 mg/kg, twice daily) or UDCA (P.O, 30 mg/kg/day) for 4 days starting from the first day of surgery. On the 4th day, blood samples were collected for determination of serum hepatic markers, then gastric ulcers were induced by piroxicam administration (P.O, 50 mg/kg) and 4 h later, the stomach was isolated and gastric mucosa was collected for biochemical determinations. The ulcer indices for the investigated drugs were compared to omeprazole as a standard acid suppressive drug.

RESULTS

Piroxicam-induced ulceration was exacerbated in cholestatic rats. Gastric mucosa showed a significant elevation of MDA and TNF-α together with a significant decrease in GSH &VEGF levels. SoB treatment significantly attenuated ulcer development. The afforded protection was higher than that provided by UDCA and was not significantly different from that afforded by omeprazole. SoB significantly decreased gastric mucosal MDA and TNF-α level, whereas UDCA failed to alter these parameters. Both drugs significantly elevated GSH, VEGF and IL10 levels. Similar to UDCA, SoB showed a significant reduction in AST, ALT, GGT, ALP and bilirubin level. Histopathological examination confirmed the attenuating effect of SoB on gastric and hepatic injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Sodium butyrate effectively protected gastric and hepatic tissues against cholestasis-induced damage. Gastroprotection was mediated through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and angiogenic activities.

Pre-protective effect of polysaccharides purified from Hericium erinaceus against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats

The β-glucan H6PC20 (Mw: 2390 kDa) and α-heteropolysaccharide HPB-3 (Mw: 15 kDa) were purified from the fruiting body of Hericium erinaceus according to the previous methods. Their gastroprotective activities and corresponding structure-activity relationship were studied in the ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model of rats. After intragastric administrated with H6PC20 and HPB-3 for 14 days, macroscopic and histological evaluation of gastric mucosa was improved significantly. The defense and repair factors (EGF, bFGF and PGE₂) were increased, meanwhile, the inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) and MDA were reduced. These results indicated that H6PC20 and HPB-3 presented gastroprotective activities with the mechanism of activating repair and defense system, decreasing the inflammatory response and alleviating the oxidative injury. Furthermore, the structure-activity relationship showed that the macromolecular β-glucan was better for repair and defense system, while the low weight molecular α-heteropolysaccharide focused on the anti-inflammatory effect. The polysaccharides purified from H. erinaceus can be developed as a potential gastroprotective ingredient for applications in pharmaceutical field.

Amelioration of Alcohol Induced Gastric Ulcers Through the Administration of Lactobacillus plantarum APSulloc 331261 Isolated From Green Tea

Gastric inflammation is an indication of gastric ulcers and possible other underlying gastric malignancies. Epidemiological studies have revealed that several Asian countries, including South Korea, suffer from a high incidence of gastric diseases derived from high levels of stress, alcoholic consumption, pyloric infection and usage of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Clinical treatments of gastric ulcers are generally limited to proton pump inhibitors that neutralize the stomach acid, and the application of antibiotics for Helicobacter pylori eradication, both of which are known to have a negative effect on the gut microbiota. The potential of probiotics for alleviating gastrointestinal diseases such as intestinal bowel syndrome and intestinal bowel disease receives increasing scientific interest. Probiotics may support the amelioration of disease-related symptoms through modulation of the gut microbiota without causing dysbiosis. In this study the potential of Lactobacillus plantarum APSulloc 331261 (GTB1^TM), isolated from green tea, was investigated for alleviating gastric inflammation in an alcohol induced gastric ulcer murine model (positive control). Treatment with the test strain significantly influenced the expression of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory biomarkers, interleukin 6 (IL6) and interleukin 10 (IL10), of which the former was down- and the latter up-regulated when the alcohol induced mice were treated with the test strain. This positive effect was also indicated by less severe gastric morphological changes and the histological score of the gastric tissues. A significant increase in the abundance of Akkermansia within the GTB1^TM treated group compared to the positive control group also correlated with a decrease in the ratio of acetate over propionate. The increased levels of propionate in the GTB1^TM group appear to result from the impact of the test strain on the microbial population and the resulting metabolic activities. Moreover, there was a significant increase in beta-diversity in the group that received GTB1^TM over that of the alcohol induced control group.

High-Salt Diet-Induced Gastritis in C57BL/6 Mice is Associated with Microbial Dysbiosis and Alleviated by a Buckwheat Diet

SCOPE

A high-salt diet is a cause of gastritis, but the associated mechanism remains unclear. Recent studies have shown that gastric flora is associated with a variety of stomach diseases, but it is not known whether gastric flora is involved in gastritis induced by a high-salt diet.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Gastritis is successfully induced in C57BL/6 mice fed a high-salt diet (salt: 5% NaCl) for four weeks. Through 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the composition of the stomach microbiota of mice fed normal and high-salt diets are compared, the results of which show that the high-salt diet induces significant changes in the gastric flora. Phylogenetic investigation of communities by reconstruction of unobserved states (PICRUSt) is used to predict the function of the microbiota in the stomach of mice, and the results indicate that a high-salt diet leads to a decrease in the ability of the gastric microbiota to metabolize polysaccharides and vitamins. A buckwheat diet is used to treat gastritis. The results show gastritis induced by the high-salt diet is significantly alleviated, and the dysbiosis in the stomach also improved.

CONCLUSION

Buckwheat diet may be one of the ways to prevent and treat gastritis caused by a high-salt diet.

Effect of heat-killed Enterococcus faecalis EF-2001 on ethanol-induced acute gastric injury in mice: Protective effect of EF-2001 on acute gastric ulcer

Enterococcus faecalis is a facultative anaerobic gram-positive commensal bacterium common in the gastrointestinal tract of animals and humans. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of heat-killed E. faecalis EF-2001 (EF-2001) on acute gastric ulcer using a murine model of ethanol (EtOH)-induced acute gastric injury. EF-2001 (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg/day) was administered by oral gavage for 5 days before EtOH treatment (10 mL/kg body weight). EF-2001 effectively attenuated EtOH-induced gastric mucosal injury with reduced gastric mucosal ulcer and histological damage score. Pretreatment of EF-2001 markedly suppressed the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs; ERK1/2, JNK, and p38MAPK). In addition, EF-2001 significantly inhibited phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and subsequently suppressed the upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 1 beta, and interleukin 6 in gastric tissues. Taken together, these results suggest that EF-2001 exerts a gastroprotective effect against acute gastric injury, and the underlying mechanism might be associated with the suppression of MAPKs and NF-κB signaling and consequent reduction of pro-inflammatory mediators or cytokines.

Sodium Butyrate Ameliorates Intestinal Injury and Improves Survival in a Rat Model of Cecal Ligation and Puncture-Induced Sepsis

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition with a high rate of mortality. Unfortunately, very few therapies can improve outcomes in patients with sepsis. Butyrate, which is the most potent histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor among short-chain fatty acids, exerts anti-inflammatory effects in a variety of inflammatory diseases. Butyrate might thus be valuable in the treatment of sepsis, in which inhibition of overwhelming cytokine release is vitally important. Sepsis was induced in 7- to 8-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) with a 21-g double-puncture technique. Rats received an intravenous injection of normal saline (vehicle) or sodium butyrate (200 mg/kg) after CLP and were sacrificed 12 h later. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to observe the intestinal mucosal morphology. RT-PCR and ELISA were used to determine the intestinal inflammatory response in vivo. Intestinal permeability was evaluated by measuring fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FD-4) absorption in vivo, and tight junction protein expression was examined by western blot. NF-κB p65 activities were assessed by western blot and immunohistochemistry. Sodium butyrate treatment improved the survival rate of CLP rats and alleviated sepsis-induced intestinal mucosal injury. Proinflammatory cytokine expression was lower in butyrate-treated rats than in the vehicle group. FD-4 leakage from the intestinal tract was reduced, and the expression levels of the tight junction proteins claudin-1 and ZO-1 were also restored in rats that received sodium butyrate treatment. These effects were associated with less NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation, whereas the expression of Iκ-Bα was not affected or even increased. Sodium butyrate mitigates the inflammatory response and maintains intestinal barrier function in polymicrobial sepsis partly through inhibition of NF-κB activation and may serve as a novel therapy for sepsis.

Effects of Clostridium butyricum and Enterococcus faecalis on growth performance, intestinal structure, and inflammation in lipopolysaccharide-challenged weaned piglets

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of Clostridium butyricum and Enterococcus faecalis on growth performance, immune function, inflammation-related pathways, and microflora community in weaned piglets challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). One hundred and eighty 28-d-old weaned piglets were randomly divided into 3 treatments groups: piglets fed with a basal diet (Con), piglets fed with a basal diet containing 6 × 109 CFU C. butyricum·kg-1 (CB), and piglets fed with a basal diet containing 2 × 1010 CFU E. faecali·kg-1 (EF). At the end of trial, 1 pig was randomly selected from for each pen (6 pigs per treatment group) and these 18 piglets were orally challenged with LPS 25 μg·kg-1 body weight. The result showed that piglets fed C. butyricum and E. faecalis had greater final BW compared with the control piglets (P < 0.05). The C. butyricum and E. faecalis fed piglets had lower levels of serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), IL-1β, tumor inflammatory factor-α (TNF-α), and had greater level of serum interferon-γ (IFN-γ) than control piglets at 1.5 and 3 h after injection with LPS (P < 0.05). Furthermore, piglets in the C. butyricum or E. faecalis treatment groups had a greater ratio of jejunal villus height to crypt depth (V/C) compared with control piglets after challenge with LPS for 3 h (P < 0.05). Compared with the control treatment, the CB and EF treatments significantly decreased the expression of inflammation-related pathway factors (TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB) after challenge with LPS for 3 h (P < 0.05). High-throughput sequencing revealed that C. butyricum and E. faecalis modulated bacterial diversity in the colon. The species richness and alpha diversity (Shannon) of bacterial samples in CB or EF piglets challenged with LPS were higher than those in LPS-challenged control piglets. Furthermore, the relative abundance of Bacteroidales-Rikenellanceae in the CB group was higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05), whereas EF piglets had a higher relative abundance of Lactobacillus amylovorus and Lactobacillus gasseri (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with C. butyricum or E. faecalis promoted growth performance, improved immunity, relieved intestinal villus damage and inflammation, and optimized the intestinal flora in LPS-challenged weaned piglets.

Therapeutic effects of probiotic Clostridium butyricum WZ001 on bacterial vaginosis in mice

AIMS

To observe the therapeutic effects of vaginal infusion of probiotic Clostridium butyricum WZ001 on bacterial vaginosis (BV) in mice.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Female ICR mice were used to establish the model of BV by infecting oestrogen-treated mice with Escherichia coli, and then treated with high- and low dose of C. butyricum. Clinical indexes of mice in the C. butyricum-treated groups were significantly improved and comparable to those in the antibiotic group. Pap staining showed that neutrophil count was significantly increased after modelling and largely decreased after C. butyricum treatment (P < 0·01). Dynamic observation of E. coli and Lactobacillus showed that the number of E. coli significantly decreased in the C. butyricum-treated groups or in the antibiotic group with prolonged treatment (P < 0·01). Besides, the number of E. coli in the low-dose C. butyricum group was higher than that in either its high-dose counterpart or the antibiotic group respectively (P < 0·01). The number of Lactobacillus decreased evidently in the antibiotic group (P < 0·01), while that in the C. butyricum groups remained consistent. Moreover, C. butyricum inhibited the proliferation of E. coli by the experiment in vitro. The phosphorylation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65 in vaginal tissue and the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6, increased after modelling and significantly decreased after treated with C. butyricum (P < 0·01), with no difference found when compared with the antibiotic group.

CONCLUSION

Clostridium butyricum inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria as well as the inflammatory response induced by E. coli and promotes the growth of Lactobacillus to maintain the vaginal micro-ecological balance.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Our results suggest that probiobitc C. butyricum WZ001 has a great potential in the clinical treatment of BV.

Dynamic Change of Gut Microbiota During Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Infection in Suckling Piglets

Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) is a disease that has a devastating effect on livestock. Currently, most studies are focused on comparing gut microbiota of healthy piglets and piglets with PED, resulting in gut microbial populations related to dynamic change in diarrheal piglets being poorly understood. The current study analyzed the characteristics of gut microbiota in porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV)-infected piglets during the suckling transition stage. Fresh fecal samples were collected from 1 to 3-week-old healthy piglets (n = 20) and PEDV infected piglets (n = 18) from the same swine farm. Total DNA was extracted from each sample and the V3-V4 hypervariable region of the 16S rRNA gene was amplified and sequenced using the Illumina MiSeq platform. Statistically significant differences were observed in bacterial diversity and richness between the healthy and diarrheal piglets. Principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) showed structural segregation between diseased and healthy groups, as well as among 3 different age groups. The abundance of Escherichia-Shigella, Enterococcus, Fusobacterium, and Veillonella increased due to dysbiosis induced by PEDV infection. Notably, there was a remarkable age-related increase in Fusobacterium and Veillonella in diarrheal piglets. Certain SCFA-producing bacteria, such as Ruminococcaceae_UCG-002, Butyricimonas, and Alistipes, were shared by all healthy piglets, but were not identified in various age groups of diarrheal piglets. In addition, significant differences were observed between clusters of orthologous groups (COG) functional categories of healthy and PEDV-infected piglets. Our findings demonstrated that PEDV infection caused severe perturbations in porcine gut microbiota. Therefore, regulating gut microbiota in an age-related manner may be a promising method for the prevention or treatment of PEDV.

Short Chain Fatty Acid Acetate Protects against Ethanol-Induced Acute Gastric Mucosal Lesion in Mice

Short chain fatty acids acetate and propionate have been demonstrated protective function in the intestinal mucosa. However, their impact on gastric mucosa has not yet been elucidated. The current study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of acetate and propionate against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesion and the underlying mechanism in mice. ICR mice were orally treated with acetate and propionate, respectively, 30 min prior to the establishment of gastric mucosal injury model by challenge with absolute ethanol. The gastric samples were collected for the detection of oxidative, inflammatory and apoptotic related parameters. Acetate, but not propionate, attenuated the severity of gastric mucosal damage as evidenced by the gross changes of gastric mucosa, pathological aberrations. Acetate alleviated oxidative stress as shown by the increase in glutathione (GSH) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, and the decrease of malondialdehyde (MDA) level. The elevated concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-6, and the activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) p65 by ethanol stimulation was also reduced by acetate. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory factors, IL-4, LXA4 and IL-10, were up-regulated in acetate treated group. With respect to gastric mucosal apoptosis, acetate suppressed caspase-3 activity and BAX expression in favor of cell survival. These favorable actions were maybe associated with up-regulation of the gastric MUC5AC, the key defense factor of gastric mucosal system. These findings accentuate the gastroprotective actions of acetate in ethanol-induced gastric injury which were mediated via concerted multi-prolonged actions, including suppression of gastric oxidation, inflammation and apoptosis and promotion of MUC5AC expression.

Enhanced gastric therapeutic effects of Brucea javanica oil and its gastroretentive drug delivery system compared to commercial products in pharmacokinetics study

Background

Brucea javanica oil (BJO), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, has a variety of pharmacological activities and several BJO-related patent drugs have been widely used in China.

Purpose

The objective of this study was to evaluate the gastric therapeutic effects of self-made BJO and its pharmaceutical potential to formulate novel BJO gastroretentive floating bead by comparing with commercial products.

Methods

BJO was extracted from the seeds of B. javanica, and its therapeutic effects were evaluated by comparing with commercial products in the treatment of human gastric cancer and gastric ulcer. Furthermore, the developed gastroretentive drug delivery system was evaluated by in vivo tests. A high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) method for detecting the concentration of glycerol trioleate in the pharma-cokinetic study was applied.

Results

The antitumor activity of BJO was stronger than that of the marketed preparation; the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values of BJO extracts on HGC27, SGC7901 and BGC823 gastric carcinoma were 0.3091, 1.736 and 2.743 μg/mL, respectively, whereas the values of marked BJO preparation were 15.26, 32.60 and 7.456 μg/mL, respectively. Histopathological studies demonstrated the ability of BJO to locally prevent and treat absolute ethanol-induced gastric ulcer. Developed BJO gastroretentive floating bead showed a satisfactory in vivo study. The highest glycerol trioleate concentration in the stomach after taking BJO gastroretentive floating bead was nearly two times higher when compared to the marketed BJO soft capsule.

Conclusion

Self-made BJO has a strong therapeutic effect on the stomach, and gastroretentive drug delivery system can be a promising approach to prolong and enhance its therapy ability when treating gastric diseases.

A Novel Role of Irbesartan in Gastroprotection against Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Injury in Rats: Targeting DDAH/ADMA and EGFR/ERK Signaling

The advent of angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockers (ARBs) as intriguing gastroprotective candidates and the superior pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics displayed by irbesartan compared to many other ARBs raised the interest to investigate its gastroprotective potential in a rat model of gastric injury. Irbesartan (50 mg/Kg) was orally administered to male Wistar rats once daily for 14 days; thereafter gastric injury was induced by indomethacin (60 mg/Kg, p.o). Irbesartan reduced gastric ulcer index, gastric acidity, and ameliorated indomethacin-induced gastric mucosal apoptotic and inflammatory aberrations, as demonstrated by hampering caspase-3, prostaglandin E₂ and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels and cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA expression. This ARB increased mucosal dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase-1 (DDAH-1) gene expression and decreased elevated levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mRNA and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (pERK1/2). Histopathological evaluation corroborated biochemical findings. Overall efficacy of irbesartan was comparable to ranitidine, the widely used H₂ receptor blocker. In conclusion, irbesartan exerts significant gastroprotection against indomethacin-induced mucosal damage via acid-inhibitory, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and extracellular matrix remodeling mechanisms that are probably mediated, at least partly, by down-regulating DDAH/ADMA and EGFR/ERK1/2 signaling.

Kaempferol protects ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in mice via pro-inflammatory cytokines and NO

Gastric ulcers (GUs) are common pathologies that affect many people around the world. Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the main causes of GUs; however, there are still lack of effective drugs for the prevention or therapy of GUs. In this study, we evaluated the protective effects and possible mechanisms of kaempferol (KAE) against acute ethanol-induced lesions to the gastric mucosa in mice. Fasted mice were orally given vehicle (0.9% saline), omeprazole (20 mg/kg), or KAE (40, 80, or 160 mg/kg) for 1 h in different experimental sets prior to the establishment of the GU model by challenge with absolute ethanol (10 ml/kg). Animals were euthanized 1 h after ethanol intake, and their plasma and stomach tissues were subject to further examination. Macroscopic and microscopic lesions, and immunological and biochemical parameters were observed. The effects of inflammation were investigated using the following indicators: tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and nitric oxide (NO). Results showed that KAE significantly decreased the ulcer index, increased the preventive index, completely protected the mucosa from lesions, and preserved gastric mucosal glycoprotein. KAE decreased MPO activity and pro-inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, and IL-1β) levels, and improved NO levels. The gastroprotective activity of KAE might be attributed to the preservation of gastric mucous glycoproteins levels, thus by inhibiting neutrophil accumulation and MPO activity, adjusting the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and improving NO production.

Gastroprotective activity of polysaccharide from Hericium erinaceus against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesion and pylorus ligation-induced gastric ulcer, and its antioxidant activities

The gastroprotective activity of Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide was investigated in rats. The antioxidant activities were also evaluated. Pre-treatment of polysaccharide could reduce ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesion and pylorus ligation-induced gastric ulcer. The polysaccharide exhibited scavenging activities of 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrozyl and hydroxyl radicals, and ferrous ion-chelating ability. In the pylorus ligation-induced model, gastric secretions (volume of gastric juice, gastric acid, pepsin and mucus) of ulcer rats administrated with polysaccharide were regulated. Levels of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukins-1β in serum, and myeloperoxidase activity of gastric tissue were reduced, while antioxidant status of gastric tissue was improved. Defensive factors (nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, epidermal growth factor) in gastric tissue were increased. These results indicate that Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide possess gastroprotective activity, and the possible mechanisms are related to its regulations of gastric secretions, improvements of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant status, as well as increments of defensive factors releases.