Goji berry juice fermented by probiotics attenuates dextran sodium sulfate-induced ulcerative colitis in mice

Lactobacillus acidophilus 6074 Fermented Jujube Juice Ameliorated DSS-induced Colitis via Repairing Intestinal Barrier, Modulating Inflammatory Factors, and Gut Microbiota

Lactobacillus acidophilus L. acidophilus Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Akkermansia, This study aimed to explore the ameliorative effects and underlying mechanisms of oral administration Lactobacillus acidophilus 6074 fermented jujube juice (LAFJ) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. In this study, jujube juice was used as a substrate and fermented by L. acidophilus 6074 to investigate its effects on gut microbiota, intestinal barrier function, oxidative stress, inflammatory factors, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in mice with colitis and to reveal its potential mechanism for alleviating colitis. The results demonstrated that fermentation caused significant changes in the nutrients and nonnutrients of jujube juice, mainly in organic acids (malic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, and succinic acid) and free amino acids (Thr, Met, Ser, Ile, and Lys). High-dose LAFJ (20 mL/kg/day) significantly reduced the disease activity index (DAI), improved histopathological morphology, and increased colon length in colitis mice. LAFJ alleviated colon damage and preserved the integrity of the colonic mucosal barrier by promoting the expression of colonic tight junction proteins occludin, claudin-1, and zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1). Furthermore, LAFJ inhibited the production of proinflammatory factors and attenuated oxidative stress. Gut microbiota of mice revealed that LAFJ increased beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Akkermansia, promoted the production of SCFAs, and inhibited the growth of harmful microorganisms. Overall, LAFJ could reshape and restore gut microbiota imbalance caused by intestinal inflammation and alleviate the development of colitis, which may become a novel dietary intervention.

Biotransformation characteristics of urate-lowering probiotic fermented apple juice and potential regulatory mechanisms for ameliorating hyperuricemia via mediating gut microbiota and metabolic pathways

Hyperuricemia has evolved into a global public health concern, and applying probiotics fermented apple juice holds promise for alleviating this condition. This study aimed to investigate the biotransformation and metabolic features of urate-lowering probiotics sequentially fermented dealcoholized apple juice (PSFA), and assess its ameliorative effects and potential mechanisms on hyperuricemia mice. Results showed that CICC 6074 and 20,292 possessed excellent purine, nucleotide and nucleoside degradation and acid and bile salt resistance; sequential fermentation decreased the fructose in apple juice, and viable counts reached 3.76 × 108 CFU/mL. Histopathological analysis showed that PSFA ameliorated kidney damage in hyperuricemia mice. Furthermore, PSFA significantly reduced Urea, Creatinine and Uric acid levels in hyperuricemia mice; and inhibited xanthine oxidase activity and the expression of pro-inflammatory factors. Importantly, PSFA reversed gut microbiota dysbiosis and raised the abundance of beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillush, Faecalibaculum and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group). KEGG and COG functional prediction results revealed that the potential mechanism of PSFA to ameliorate hyperuricemia may be lipid metabolism and glycolysis pathways.

Probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum Dad-13 Alleviates 2,4,6-Trinitrobenzene Sulfonic Acid-Induced Colitis Through Short-Chain Fatty Acid Production and Inflammatory Cytokine Regulation

The development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is closely linked to inflammatory damage and dysbiosis. Recently, probiotics are being increasingly used to improve intestinal health. Probiotic-based therapies can prevent IBD by restoring the balance of gastrointestinal microbiota, reducing gut inflammation, and increasing the concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum Dad-13, a novel probiotic strain derived from dadih (Indonesian curd from buffalo milk), on 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis in BALB/c mice. The results showed that probiotic Dad-13 supplementation at a dose of 107 or 109 CFU/mL improved the clinical symptoms of IBD and enhanced the production of SCFAs, particularly propionate and butyrate. Moreover, probiotic Dad-13 supplementation significantly decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β] and significantly increased the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10). These findings show that L. plantarum Dad-13 can effectively prevent TNBS-induced colitis by modulating SCFA production and inflammatory cytokines.

Untargeted Metabolomics Analysis of Lactic Acid Bacteria Fermented Acanthopanax senticosus with Regard to Regulated Gut Microbiota in Mice

Previous studies have shown that Acanthopanax senticosus (AS) has a beneficial preventive and therapeutic effect on colitis. The fermentation of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can alter the efficacy of AS by modifying or producing new compounds with potential bioactive properties. However, the specific components and mechanisms that enhance the efficacy are still unclear. In the present experiment, untargeted metabolomics was used to analyze the changes in active components before and after LAB fermentation of AS. The aim was to explain the mechanism of AS fermentation in treating colitis using a colitis model in mice. The results indicated that the fermentation of LAB could enhance the levels of total flavonoids and total polyphenols in FAS. Additionally, the beneficial components such as Delphinidin chloride, Diosmetin, Psoralidin, and Catechol significantly increased (p < 0.05). The colitis treatment experiment demonstrated that fermented AS could alleviate symptoms and improve the morphology of colitis in mice by enhancing antioxidant enzymes like CAT, T-SOD, and T-AOC. It also regulated the composition and abundance of intestinal flora species, such as Lactobacillus and Pseudogracilibacillus. The effectiveness of fermented AS was significantly superior to that of unfermented AS (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study contributes to the application of lactic acid bacteria in AS fermentation and reveals the mechanism of fermentation AS for colitis.

Fermentation: improvement of pharmacological effects and applications of botanical drugs

Fermentation is an important concoction technique for botanical drugs. Fermentation transforms and enhances the active ingredients of botanical drugs through specific microbiological processes, ultimately affecting their pharmacological effects. This review explores the use of fermented botanical drugs in areas such as anti-tumor, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, cosmetology, and intestinal flora regulation. It elucidates the potential pharmacological mechanisms and discusses the benefits of fermentation technology for botanical drugs, including reducing toxic side effects, enhancing drug efficacy, and creating new active ingredients. This article also discussesdelves into the common strains and factors influencing the fermentation process, which are crucial for the successful transformation and enhancement of these drugs. Taken together, this study aimed to provide a reference point for further research and wider applications of botanical drug fermentation technology.

Prebiotic Potential of Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum) in Improving Intestinal Integrity and Inflammatory Profiles via Modification of the Gut Microbiota in High-Fat Diet-Fed Rats

Background: Imbalances in gut microbiota and subsequent destabilization of intestinal barrier equilibrium have been related to the evolution of metabolic disorders. Goji berries (Lycium barbarum; GB) and their fermented counterpart (FGB) have been identified for their prebiotic capacity in managing intestinal barrier functions and inflammatory profiles Consequently, this research was designed to investigate the effects of supplementing GB and FGB on intestinal integrity, inflammation, and changes in the composition of gut microbiota in high-fat (HF)-fed rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats (6 weeks old, 8 per group) were divided into four categories based on their weight and provided with either respective diets over a 6-week period: low-fat (LF; 10% of calories from fat), HF (45% of calories from fat), and HF diets supplemented with either GB or FGB at a 2% (w/w). Results: Supplementation of GB and FGB resulted in compositional changes in the gut microbiota, denoted by a distinct abundance of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii with GB and Akkermansia muciniphila species with FGB, which have been linked to ameliorated obesity phenotypes and metabolic parameters. These alterations were correlated with enhancements in gut barrier integrity, thereby protecting against local and systemic inflammation induced by a HF diet. Supplementation with GB and FGB also mitigated lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation through inhibition of its downstream pathway. Conclusion: These findings indicate that both GB and FGB supplementation can improve gut barrier function and inflammatory profiles in HF-fed rats via modulation of the microbial composition of the gut, supporting the potential application of GB and FGB in improving gut barrier function and managing inflammation amid metabolic challenges.

Black Goji Berry (Lycium ruthenicum) Juice Fermented with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG Enhances Inhibitory Activity against Dipeptidyl Peptidase-IV and Key Steps of Lipid Digestion and Absorption

With the global increase in hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, there is an urgent need to explore dietary interventions targeting the inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) and lipid digestion and absorption. This study investigated how Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) affects various aspects of black goji berry (BGB) (Lycium ruthenicum Murr.) juice, including changes in physicochemical and functional properties, as well as microbiological and sensory attributes. Throughout the fermentation process with 2.5-10% (w/v) BGB, significantly improved probiotic viability, lactic acid production, and decreased sugar content. While total flavonoids increase, anthocyanins decrease, with no discernible change in antioxidant activities. Metabolite profiling reveals elevated phenolic compounds post-fermentation. Regarding the inhibition of lipid digestion and absorption, fermented BGB exhibits improved bile acid binding, and disrupted cholesterol micellization by approximately threefold compared to non-fermented BGB, while also increasing pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity. Furthermore, a decrease in cholesterol uptake was observed in Caco-2 cells treated with fermented BGB (0.5 mg/mL), with a maximum reduction of 16.94%. Fermented BGB also shows more potent DPP-IV inhibition. Sensory attributes are significantly improved in fermented BGB samples. These findings highlight the potential of BGB as a bioactive resource and a promising non-dairy carrier for LGG, enhancing its anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemic properties.

Ferroptosis: a new mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine for treating ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC), a subtype of inflammatory bowel disease, manifests with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and mucopurulent, bloody stools. The pathogenesis of UC is not fully understood. At present, the incidence of UC has increased significantly around the world. Conventional therapeutic arsenals are relatively limited, with often poor efficacy and many adverse effects. In contrast, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) holds promise due to their notable effectiveness, reduced recurrence rates, and minimal side effects. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the basic research on TCM for UC treatment. It has been found that the inhibition of ferroptosis through the intervention of TCM can significantly promote intestinal mucosal healing and reverse UC. The mechanism of action involves multiple targets and pathways.

Aim of the review

This review summarizes the experimental studies on the targeted regulation of ferroptosis by TCM and its impact on UC in recent years, aiming to provide theoretical basis for the prevention, treatment, and further drug development for UC.

Results

Ferroptosis disrupts antioxidant mechanisms in intestinal epithelial cells, damages the intestinal mucosa, and participates in the pathological process of UC. TCM acts on various pathways such as Nrf2/HO-1 and GSH/GPX4, blocking the pathological progression of ferroptosis in intestinal epithelial cells, inhibiting pathological damage to the intestinal mucosa, and thereby alleviating UC.

Conclusion

The diverse array of TCM single herbs, extracts and herbal formulas facilitates selective and innovative research and development of new TCM methods for targeting UC treatment. Although progress has been made in studying TCM compound formulas, single herbs, and extracts, there are still many issues in clinical and basic experimental designs, necessitating further in-depth scientific exploration and research.

Fermented Gracilaria lemaneiformis polysaccharides alleviate food allergy by regulating Treg cells and gut microbiota

Food allergy has a significant impact on the health and well-being of individuals, affecting both their physical and mental states. Research on natural bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides extracted from seaweeds, holds great promise in the treatment of food allergies. In this study, fermented Gracilaria lemaneiformis polysaccharides (F-GLSP) were prepared using probiotic fermentation. Probiotic fermentation of Gracilaria lemaneiformis reduces the particle size of polysaccharides. To compare the anti-allergic activity of F-GLSP with unfermented Gracilaria lemaneiformis polysaccharides (UF-GLSP), an OVA-induced mouse food allergy model was established. F-GLSP exhibited a significant reduction in OVA-specific IgE and mMCP levels in allergic mice. Moreover, it significantly inhibited Th2 differentiation and IL-4 production and significantly promoted Treg differentiation and IL-10 production in allergic mice. In contrast, UF-GLSP only reduced OVA-specific IgE and mMCP in the serum of allergic mice. Furthermore, F-GLSP demonstrated a more pronounced regulation of intestinal flora abundance compared to UF-GLSP, significantly influencing the populations of Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Lactobacillus, and Clostridiales in the intestines of mice with food allergy. These findings suggest that F-GLSP may regulate food allergies in mice through multiple pathways. In summary, this study has promoted further development of functional foods with anti-allergic properties based on red algae polysaccharides.

Protective effects of sinomenine against dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis in rats via alteration of HO-1/Nrf2 and inflammatory pathway

BACKGROUND

Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS) induces ulcerative colitis (UC), a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that leads to inflammation, swelling, and ulcers in the large intestine. The aim of this experimental study is to examine how sinomenine, a plant-derived alkaloid, can prevent or reduce the damage caused by DSS in the colon and rectum of rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Induction of ulcerative colitis (UC) in rats was achieved by orally administering a 2% Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS) solution, while the rats concurrently received oral administrations of sinomenine and sulfasalazine. The food, water intake was estimated. The body weight, disease activity index (DAI), colon length and spleen index estimated. Antioxidant, cytokines, inflammatory parameters and mRNA expression were estimated. The composition of gut microbiota was analyzed at both the phylum and genus levels in the fecal samples obtained from all groups of rats.

RESULTS

Sinomenine treatment enhanced the body weight, colon length and reduced the DAI, spleen index. Sinomenine treatment remarkably suppressed the level of NO, MPO, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 along with alteration of antioxidant parameters such as SOD, CAT, GPx, GR and MDA. Sinomenine treatment also decreased the cytokines like TNF-α, IL-1, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, IL-18 in the serum and colon tissue; inflammatory parameters viz., PAF, COX-2, PGE2, iNOS, NF-κB; matrix metalloproteinases level such as MMP-1 and MMP-2. Sinomenine significantly (P < 0.001) enhanced the level of HO-1 and Nrf2. Sinomenine altered the mRNA expression of RIP1, RIP3, DRP3, NLRP3, IL-1β, caspase-1 and IL-18. Sinomenine remarkably altered the relative abundance of gut microbiota like firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, F/B ratio, Verrucomicrobia, and Actinobacteria.

CONCLUSION

The results clearly indicate that sinomenine demonstrated a protective effect against DSS-induced inflammation, potentially through the modulation of inflammatory pathways and gut microbiota.

Wallace melon juice fermented with Lactobacillus alleviates dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis in mice through modulating gut microbiota and the metabolism

Fermented foods have shown promise in preventing or treating ulcerative colitis (UC) via regulating intestinal flora and correcting metabolic disorders. However, the prevention effect of fermented Wallace melon juice (FMJ) on UC is unclear. In this study, the effects of FMJ on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced UC were investigated via 16S rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics. The results showed that FMJ was effective in alleviating the symptoms of UC, reducing histological damage and oxidative stress, decreasing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. After FMJ treatment, the level of propionic acid, butyric acid, and valeric acid increased by 14.1%, 44.4%, and 52.4% compared to DSS-induced UC mice. Meanwhile, the levels of harmful bacteria such as Oscillospira, Bacteroidetes, and Erysipelotrichaceae and Clostridium decreased, while the levels of beneficial bacteria such as Akkermansia, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium increased. Fecal metabolomics analysis identified 31 differential metabolites, which could regulate metabolic disorders in UC mice by controlling the primary bile acid biosynthesis, purine metabolism, and pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis pathway. Additionally, the abundances of butyric acid, bile acids, and pantothenic acid were positively correlated with Allobaculum, Bifidobacterium, and other beneficial bacteria (R2 > 0.80, p < 0.01). The results indicated that FMJ played a role in regulating the structure of intestinal flora, which in turn helped in repairing metabolic disorders and alleviated colitis inflammation.

Probiotic-fermented edible herbs as functional foods: A review of current status, challenges, and strategies

Recently, consumers have become increasingly interested in natural, health-promoting, and chronic disease-preventing medicine and food homology (MFH). There has been accumulating evidence that many herbal medicines, including MFH, are biologically active due to their biotransformation through the intestinal microbiota. The emphasis of scientific investigation has moved from the functionally active role of MFH to the more subtle role of biotransformation of the active ingredients in probiotic-fermented MFH and their health benefits. This review provides an overview of the current status of research on probiotic-fermented MFH. Probiotics degrade toxins and anti-nutritional factors in MFH, improve the flavor of MFH, and increase its bioactive components through their transformative effects. Moreover, MFH can provide a material base for the growth of probiotics and promote the production of their metabolites. In addition, the health benefits of probiotic-fermented MFH in recent years, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-neurodegenerative, skin-protective, and gut microbiome-modulating effects, are summarized, and the health risks associated with them are also described. Finally, the future development of probiotic-fermented MFH is prospected in combination with modern development technologies, such as high-throughput screening technology, synthetic biology technology, and database construction technology. Overall, probiotic-fermented MFH has the potential to be used in functional food for preventing and improving people's health. In the future, personalized functional foods can be expected based on synthetic biology technology and a database on the functional role of probiotic-fermented MFH.

Lactic acid fermentation of goji berries (Lycium barbarum) prevents acute alcohol liver injury and modulates gut microbiota and metabolites in mice

Juice fermented with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) has received attention due to its health benefits, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Previous research on LAB-fermented goji juice mainly focused on exploring the changes in the metabolite profile and antioxidant activity in vitro, whereas the liver protection properties of LAB-fermented goji juice in vivo are still unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei E10-fermented goji juice (E10F), Lactiplantibacillus plantarum M-fermented goji juice (MF), Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LGG-fermented goji juice (LGGF) on preventing acute alcoholic liver injury with physiology, gut microbial, and metabolic profiles in mice. Compared with goji juice, E10F, MF, and LGGF enhanced the protective effect against liver injury by reducing serum alanine transaminase (ALT) levels, improving the hepatic glutathione (GSH) antioxidant system, and attenuating inflammation by decreasing the levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. Furthermore, E10F, MF, and LGGF increased intestinal integrity, restructured the gut microbiota including Bacteroides and Lactobacillus, and altered gut microbial metabolites including kyotorphin, indolelactic acid, and N-methylserotonin. Pretreatment of different LAB-fermented goji juice in mice showed significant differences in gut microbiota and metabolism. The correlation analysis demonstrated that the increase of Lactobacillus, indolelactic acid, and N-methylserotonin by E10F, MF, and LGGF was positively correlated with reduced inflammation and improved liver and gut function. Taken together, E10F, MF, and LGGF all have the potential to be converted into dietary interventions to combat acute alcoholic liver injury. It provided a reference for the study of the hepatoprotective effect of LAB-fermented goji juice.

A polyphenol-rich plant extract prevents hypercholesterolemia and modulates gut microbiota in western diet-fed mice

Introduction

Totum-070 is a combination of five plant extracts enriched in polyphenols to target hypercholesterolemia, one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Totum-070 on cholesterol levels in an animal model of diet-induced hypercholesterolemia.

Methods

C57BL/6JOlaHsd male mice were fed a Western diet and received Totum-070, or not, by daily gavage (1g/kg and 3g/kg body weight) for 6 weeks.

Results

The Western diet induced obesity, fat accumulation, hepatic steatosis and increased plasma cholesterol compared with the control group. All these metabolic perturbations were alleviated by Totum-070 supplementation in a dose-dependent manner. Lipid excretion in feces was higher in mice supplemented with Totum-070, suggesting inhibition of intestinal lipid absorption. Totum-070 also increased the fecal concentration of short chain fatty acids, demonstrating a direct effect on intestinal microbiota.

Discussion

The characterization of fecal microbiota by 16S amplicon sequencing showed that Totum-070 supplementation modulated the dysbiosis associated with metabolic disorders. Specifically, Totum-070 increased the relative abundance of Muribaculum (a beneficial bacterium) and reduced that of Lactococcus (a genus positively correlated with increased plasma cholesterol level). Together, these findings indicate that the cholesterol-lowering effect of Totum-070 bioactive molecules could be mediated through multiple actions on the intestine and gut microbiota.

Chaenomeles sinensis polysaccharide and its carboxymethylated derivative alleviate dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis via suppression of inflammation and oxidative stress

Chaenomeles sinensis fruit polysaccharide (CSP) and carboxymethylated CSP (CSP-M) were prepared using ultrasound extraction and the sodium hydroxide-chloroacetic acid method. Structural analysis revealed that both CSP and CSP-M mainly consisted of glucose, arabinose, rhamnose, glucuronic acid, galactose, and xylose, and the introduction of carboxymethyl did not damage the polymer chain of CSP. In vivo studies verified that both CSP and CSP-M could remarkably alleviate the symptoms of ulcerative colitis (UC) mice and reduce intestinal epithelial cell depletion, along with the infiltration of inflammatory cells in colon tissue, by mediating the expression of myeloperoxidase (MPO), inflammatory factors [tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-6], and oxidative stress factors [malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and nitric oxide (NO)]. Most importantly, the introduction of carboxymethyl significantly enhanced the anti-UC activity of CSP, confirming the efficacy of carboxymethylation as a method to enhance the biological activities of CSP, thereby suggesting the potential of CSP-M as a therapeutic option for UC.

Bioactive Components of Lycium barbarum and Deep-Processing Fermentation Products

Lycium barbarum, a homology of medicine and food, contains many active ingredients including polysaccharides, polyphenol, betaine, and carotenoids, which has health benefits and economic value. The bioactive components in Lycium barbarum exhibit the effects of antioxidation, immune regulation, hypoglycemic effects, and vision improvement. Recently, the development of nutrition and health products of Lycium barbarum has been paid more and more attention with the increase in health awareness. A variety of nutrients and bioactive components in wolfberry can be retained or increased using modern fermentation technology. Through fermentation, the products have better flavor and health function, which better meet the needs of market diversification. The main products related to wolfberry fermentation include wolfberry fruit wine, wolfberry fruit vinegar, and lactic acid fermented beverage. In this review, the mainly bioactive components of Lycium barbarum and its deep-processing products of fermentation were summarized and compared. It will provide reference for the research and development of fermented and healthy products of Lycium barbarum.

Reviewing the potential of probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics: advancements in treatment of ulcerative colitis

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn's and ulcerative colitis (UC) are multifactorial pathologies caused by environmental factors and genetic background. UC is a chronic inflammatory disorder that specifically targets the colon, resulting in inflammation. Various chemical interventions, including aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and biological therapies, have been extensively employed for the purpose of managing symptoms associated with UC. Nevertheless, it is important to note that these therapeutic interventions may give rise to undesirable consequences, including, but not limited to, the potential for weight gain, fluid retention, and heightened vulnerability to infections. Emerging therapeutic approaches for UC are costly due to their chronic nature. Alternatives like synbiotic therapy, combining prebiotics and probiotics, have gained attention for mitigating dysbiosis in UC patients. Prebiotics promote beneficial bacteria proliferation, while probiotics establish a balanced gut microbiota and regulate immune system functionality. The utilisation of synbiotics has been shown to improve the inflammatory response and promote the resolution of symptoms in individuals with UC through the stimulation of beneficial bacteria growth and the enhancement of intestinal barrier integrity. Hence, this review article aims to explore the potential benefits and underlying reasons for incorporating alternative approaches in the management of UC with studies performed using prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics to treat ulcerative colitis and to highlight safety and considerations in UC and future perspectives. This will facilitate the utilisation of novel treatment strategies for the safer and more efficacious management of patients with UC.

Therapeutic effect of Lactobacillus plantarum JS19 on mice with dextran sulfate sodium induced acute and chronic ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis is associated with intestinal inflammation and dysbiosis. Previous studies have shown that probiotics are potential agents for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Jiang-shui is a traditional fermented vegetable that is rich in lactic acid bacteria (LABs), but the preventive effect of LABs in jiang-shui on IBD is not yet fully understood.

RESULTS

We isolated 38 LAB strains from jiang-shui, and Lactobacillus plantarum JS19 exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity among them. Our data indicate that oral administration of L. plantarum JS19 significantly inhibited body weight loss, colon shortening and damage, and reduced the disease activity index score in the mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. In addition, L. plantarum JS19 also alleviated inflammatory responses and oxidative stress through reducing lipid peroxidation, tumor necrosis factor-α expression, and myeloperoxidase activity and enhancing the antioxidant enzyme activity. Importantly, L. plantarum JS19 significantly rebalanced DSS-induced dysbiosis of gut microbiota.

CONCLUSION

L. plantarum JS19 may be used as a potential probiotic to prevent IBD, particularly ulcerative colitis. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Role of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics in management of inflammatory bowel disease: Current perspectives

Experimental evidence supports the fact that changes in the bowel microflora due to environmental or dietary factors have been investigated as implicating factors in the etiopathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The amassing knowledge that the inhabited microbiome regulates the gut physiology and immune functions in IBD, has led researchers to explore the effectiveness of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics in treating IBD. This therapeutic approach focuses on restoring the dynamic balance between the microflora and host defense mechanisms in the intestinal mucosa to prevent the onset and persistence of intestinal inflammation. Numerous microbial strains and carbohydrate blends, along with their combinations have been examined in experimental colitis models and clinical trials, and the results indicated that it can be an attractive therapeutic strategy for the suppression of inflammation, remission induction, and relapse prevention in IBD with minimal side effects. Several mechanisms of action of probiotics (for e.g., Lactobacillus species, and Bifidobacterium species) have been reported such as suppression of pathogen growth by releasing certain antimicrobial mediators (lactic and hydrogen peroxide, acetic acid, and bacteriocins), immunomodulation and initiation of an immune response, enhancement of barrier activity, and suppression of human T-cell proliferation. Prebiotics such as lactulose, lactosucrose, oligofructose, and inulin have been found to induce the growth of certain types of host microflora, resulting in an enriched enteric function. These non-digestible food dietary components have been reported to exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α-related cytokines while augmenting interleukin-10 levels. Although pro-and prebiotics has established their efficacy in healthy subjects, a better understanding of the luminal ecosystem is required to determine which specific bacterial strain or combination of probiotics and prebiotics would prove to be the ideal treatment for IBD. Clinical trials, however, have given some conflicting results, requiring the necessity to cite the more profound clinical effect of these treatments on IBD remission and prevention. The purpose of this review article is to provide the most comprehensive and updated review on the utility of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics in the management of active Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis/pouchitis.

Goji berry leaf exerts a comparable effect against colitis and microbiota dysbiosis to its fruit in dextran-sulfate-sodium-treated mice

Goji berry and mulberry are both popular berries with anti-colitis effects, but their leaves have received less attention. In this study, the anti-colitis effects of goji berry leaf and mulberry leaf were investigated in dextran-sulfate-sodium-induced colitis C57BL/6N mice compared with their fruits. Goji berry leaf and goji berry reduced colitic symptoms and ameliorated tissue damage, while mulberry leaf did not. ELISA and western blotting analysis suggested that goji berry showed the best performance in inhibiting the overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10) and improving damaged colonic barrier (occludin and claudin-1). Besides, goji berry leaf and goji berry reversed the gut microbiota dysbiosis by increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Muribaculaceae, and decreasing the abundance of harmful bacteria like Bilophila and Lachnoclostridium. Goji berry, mulberry and goji berry leaf could restore acetate, propionate, butyrate and valerate to ameliorate inflammation, while mulberry leaf could not restore butyrate. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the comparison of the anti-colitis effects of goji berry leaf, mulberry leaf and their fruits, which is meaningful for the rational utilization of goji berry leaf as a functional food.

Kimchi and Leuconostoc mesenteroides DRC 1506 Alleviate Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-Induced Colitis via Attenuating Inflammatory Responses

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is caused by inflammation only in the mucosa of the colon, and its incidence is increasing worldwide. The intake of probiotics is known to have a beneficial effect on the development of UC. In this study, we investigated the alleviating effects of kimchi (KC), a fermented food rich in probiotics, and Leuconostoc mesenteroides DRC 1506 (DRC) isolated from kimchi on UC. A freeze-dried kimchi suspension and DRC were orally given to mice at a dose of 1 × 10⁹ CFU/day for 3 weeks. Furthermore, 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water was given to induce UC. The KC and DRC groups reduced symptoms of colitis, such as disease activity index, decrease in colon length, colon weight-to-length ratio, and pathological damage to the colon caused by DSS treatment. The KC and DRC groups decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α) and increased anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) in the colon tissues. At the mRNA and protein expression levels in the colon tissue, KC and DRC groups downregulated inflammatory factors and upregulated tight junction-related factors. Therefore, DRC, as well as KC supplementation, are potent in alleviating UC by improving the inflammatory response and mucosal barrier function in the colon.

GelNB molecular coating as a biophysical barrier to isolate intestinal irritating metabolites and regulate intestinal microbial homeostasis in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory disease characterized by the destruction of the structure and function of the intestinal epithelial barrier. Due to the poor remission effect and severe adverse events associated with current clinical medications, IBD remains an incurable disease. Here, we demonstrated a novel treatment strategy with high safety and effective inflammation remission via tissue-adhesive molecular coating. The molecular coating is composed of o-nitrobenzaldehyde (NB)-modified Gelatin (GelNB), which can strongly bond with –NH₂ on the intestinal surface of tissue to form a thin biophysical barrier. We found that this molecular coating was able to stay on the surface of the intestine for long periods of time, effectively protecting the damaged intestinal epithelium from irritations of external intestinal metabolites and harmful flora. In addition, our results showed that this coating not only provided a beneficial environment for cell migration and proliferation to promote intestinal repair and regeneration, but also achieved a better outcome of IBD by reducing intestinal inflammation. Moreover, the in vivo experiments showed that the GelNB was better than the classic clinical medication—mesalazine. Therefore, our molecular coating showed potential as a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of IBD.

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GelNB molecular coating can protect the intestinal epithelium from irritations of intestinal metabolites and harmful flora.

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GelNB molecular coating not only promote intestinal repair and regeneration, but also reduce intestinal inflammation.

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GelNB molecular coating shows potential as a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of IBD.

Effects of Lycium barbarum Polysaccharides on Immunity and Metabolic Syndrome Associated with the Modulation of Gut Microbiota: A Review

Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) have attracted increasing attention due to their multiple pharmacological activities and physiological functions. Recently, both in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that the biological effects of dietary LBPs are related to the regulation of gut microbiota. Supplementation with LBPs could modulate the composition of microbial communities, and simultaneously influence the levels of active metabolites, thus exerting their beneficial effects on host health. Interestingly, LBPs with diverse chemical structures may enrich or reduce certain specific intestinal microbes. The present review summarizes the extraction, purification, and structural types of LBPs and the regulation effects of LBPs on the gut microbiome and their derived metabolites. Furthermore, the health promoting effects of LBPs on host bidirectional immunity (e.g., immune enhancement and immune inflammation suppression) and metabolic syndrome (e.g., obesity, type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) by targeting gut microbiota are also discussed based on their structural types. The contents presented in this review might help to better understand the health benefits of LBPs targeting gut microbiota and provide a scientific basis to further clarify the structure-function relationship of LBPs.

Fermented natural product targeting gut microbiota regulate immunity and anti-inflammatory activity: A possible way to prevent COVID-19 in daily diet

Low immune function makes the body vulnerable to being invaded by external bacteria or viruses, causing influenza and inflammation of various organs, and this trend is shifting to the young and middle-aged group. It has been pointed out that natural products fermented by probiotic have benign changes about their active ingredients in some studies, and it have shown strong nutritional value in anti-oxidation, anti-aging, regulating lipid metabolism, anti-inflammatory and improving immunity. In recent years, the gut microbiota plays a key role and has been extensively studied in improving immunity and anti-inflammation activity. By linking the relationship between natural products fermented by probiotic, gut microbiota, immunity, and inflammation, this review presents the modulating effects of probiotics and their fermented natural products on the body, including immunity-enhancing and anti-inflammatory activities by modulating gut microbiota, and it is discussed that the current understanding of its molecular mechanisms. It may become a possible way to prevent COVID-19 through consuming natural products fermented by probiotic in our daily diet.

Silk sericin stabilized proanthocyanidins for synergetic alleviation of ulcerative colitis

Silk sericin (SS) has become a noticeable drug nanocarrier due to its excellent biocompatibility and bioactivity. To further extend the application of SS, a facile one-step process was constructed to fabricate SS-stabilized-drug composites. Various insoluble drugs can be encapsulated into SS with high loading amount, and showed good dispersity in aqueous solution. For example, proanthocyanidins (PAC), a natural polyphenol with initial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, can be loaded on SS to form SS/PAC composites. The SS/PAC can disperse uniformly in aqueous solution with an average particle diameter of ~136 nm, and showed high drug loading amount of 1767 mg/g. The SS/PAC exhibited high antioxidant efficiency and excellent biocompatibility (non-irritant, non-hemolysis, and non-cytotoxicity), could remarkably alleviate the symptoms of dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis by decreasing the disease activity index scores, inhibiting the shortening of colon length, regulating oxidative stress, suppressing inflammation, and reversing the histopathological injuries. This work provides a simple method to fabricate SS-stabilized-drug composites, promises high potential in therapeutic and pharmaceutical applications.

Lycium barbarum (Goji) as functional food: a review of its nutrition, phytochemical structure, biological features, and food industry prospects

Lycium genus (Goji berry) is recognized as a good source of homology of medicine and food, with various nutrients and phytochemicals. Lately, numerous studies have focused on the chemical constituents and biological functions of the L. barbarum L., covering phytochemical and pharmacological aspects. We aim to provide exclusive data on the nutrients of L. barbarum L. fruits and phytochemicals, including their structural characterization, the evolution of extraction, and purification processes of different phytochemicals of L. barbarum L. fruit while placing greater emphasis on their wide-ranging health effects. This review also profitably offers innovative approaches for the food industry and industrial applications of L. barbarum L. and addresses some current situations and problems in the development of L. barbarum L. in deep processing products, which can provide clues for the sustainable development of L. barbarum L. industry.

Health Benefits and Applications of Goji Berries in Functional Food Products Development: A Review

Goji berries have long been used for their nutritional value and medicinal purposes in Asian countries. In the last two decades, goji berries have become popular around the world and are consumed as a functional food due to wide-range bioactive compounds with health-promoting properties. In addition, they are gaining increased research attention as a source of functional ingredients with potential industrial applications. This review focuses on the antioxidant properties of goji berries, scientific evidence on their health effects based on human interventional studies, safety concerns, goji berry processing technologies, and applications of goji berry-based ingredients in developing functional food products.