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Collins JM, Keane JM, Deady C, Khashan AS, McCarthy FP, O'Keeffe GW, Clarke G, Cryan JF, Caputi V, O'Mahony SM. Prenatal stress impacts foetal neurodevelopment: Temporal windows of gestational vulnerability. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 164:105793. [PMID: 38971516 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Prenatal maternal stressors ranging in severity from everyday occurrences/hassles to the experience of traumatic events negatively impact neurodevelopment, increasing the risk for the onset of psychopathology in the offspring. Notably, the timing of prenatal stress exposure plays a critical role in determining the nature and severity of subsequent neurodevelopmental outcomes. In this review, we evaluate the empirical evidence regarding temporal windows of heightened vulnerability to prenatal stress with respect to motor, cognitive, language, and behavioural development in both human and animal studies. We also explore potential temporal windows whereby several mechanisms may mediate prenatal stress-induced neurodevelopmental effects, namely, excessive hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity, altered serotonin signalling and sympathetic-adrenal-medullary system, changes in placental function, immune system dysregulation, and alterations of the gut microbiota. While broadly defined developmental windows are apparent for specific psychopathological outcomes, inconsistencies arise when more complex cognitive and behavioural outcomes are considered. Novel approaches to track molecular markers reflective of the underlying aetiologies throughout gestation to identify tractable biomolecular signatures corresponding to critical vulnerability periods are urgently required.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M Collins
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - James M Keane
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Clara Deady
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Ali S Khashan
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; The Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research (INFANT), Cork University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Fergus P McCarthy
- The Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research (INFANT), Cork University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Ireland; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Gerard W O'Keeffe
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; The Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research (INFANT), Cork University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Gerard Clarke
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; The Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research (INFANT), Cork University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Ireland; Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - John F Cryan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Valentina Caputi
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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Holuka C, Grova N, Charalambous EG, Le Cléac H J, Turner JD, Mposhi A. Transgenerational impacts of early life adversity: from health determinants, implications to epigenetic consequences. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 164:105785. [PMID: 38945418 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Exposure to different environmental factors, social and socioeconomic factors promotes development of the early-life adversity (ELA) phenotype. The persistence of this phenotype across generations is an interesting phenomenon that remains unexplored. Of late many studies have focused on disease-associated outcomes of ELA following exposure during childhood but the persistence of epigenetic imprints transmitted by ELA exposed parents to their offspring remains poorly described. It is possible that both parents are able to transmit ELA-associated genetic imprints to their offspring via transgenerational inheritance mechanisms. Here, we highlight the role of the mother and father in the biological process of conception, from epigenetic reprogramming cycles to later environmental exposures. We explain some of the known determinants of ELA (pollution, socioeconomic challenges, infections, etc.) and their disease-associated outcomes. Finally, we highlight the role of epigenetics, mitochondria and ncRNAs as mechanisms mediating transgenerational inheritance. Whether these transgenerational inheritance mechanisms occur in the human context remains unclear but there is a large body of suggestive evidence in non-human models that points out to its existence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyrielle Holuka
- Immune Endocrine Epigenetics Research Group, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Luxembourg; Faculty of Science, University of Luxembourg, Belval L-4365, Luxembourg
| | - Nathalie Grova
- Immune Endocrine Epigenetics Research Group, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Luxembourg; UMR Inserm 1256 nGERE, Nutrition-Génétique et exposition aux risques environnementaux, Institute of Medical Research (Pôle BMS) - University of Lorraine, B.P. 184, Nancy 54511, France
| | - Eleftheria G Charalambous
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medecine Greifswald, Ellernholzstr. 1-2, Greifswald 17489, Germany; Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus
| | - Jeanne Le Cléac H
- Immune Endocrine Epigenetics Research Group, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Luxembourg; Faculty of Science, University of Luxembourg, Belval L-4365, Luxembourg
| | - Jonathan D Turner
- Immune Endocrine Epigenetics Research Group, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Luxembourg.
| | - Archibold Mposhi
- Immune Endocrine Epigenetics Research Group, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Luxembourg
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Chen J, Zeng R, Chen H, Cao M, Peng Y, Tong J, Huang J. Microbial reconstitution reverses prenatal stress-induced cognitive impairment and synaptic deficits in rat offspring. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 120:231-247. [PMID: 38851306 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Stress during pregnancy is often linked with increased incidents of neurodevelopmental disorders, including cognitive impairment. Here, we report that stress during pregnancy leads to alterations in the intestinal flora, which negatively affects the cognitive function of offspring. Cognitive impairment in stressed offspring can be reproduced by transplantation of cecal contents of stressed pregnant rats (ST) to normal pregnant rats. In addition, gut microbial dysbiosis results in an increase of β-guanidinopropionic acid in the blood, which leads to an activation of the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in the fetal brain. Moreover, β-guanidinopropionic acid supplementation in pregnant rats can reproduce pregnancy stress-induced enhanced glial differentiation of the fetal brain, resulting in impaired neural development. Using probiotics to reconstruct maternal microbiota can correct the cognitive impairment in the offspring of pregnant stressed rats. These findings suggest that microbial reconstitution reverses gestational stress-induced cognitive impairment and synaptic deficits in male rat offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, 172th Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Ru Zeng
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, 172th Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Huimin Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, No.127, Jinbi Road, Xishan District, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Mengya Cao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 138th Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Yihan Peng
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, 172th Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Jianbin Tong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 138th Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China; Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Brain Homeostasis, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 138th Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
| | - Jufang Huang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, 172th Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
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Vasileva S, Yap CX, Whitehouse AJ, Gratten J, Eyles D. Absence of association between maternal adverse events and long-term gut microbiome outcomes in the Australian autism biobank. Brain Behav Immun Health 2024; 39:100814. [PMID: 39027090 PMCID: PMC11254947 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Maternal immune activation (MIA) and prenatal maternal stress (MatS) are well-studied risk factors for psychiatric conditions such as autism and schizophrenia. Animal studies have proposed the gut microbiome as a mechanism underlying this association and have found that risk factor-related gut microbiome alterations persist in the adult offspring. In this cross-sectional study, we assessed whether maternal immune activation and prenatal maternal stress were associated with long-term gut microbiome alterations in children using shotgun metagenomics. Methods This cross-sectional study included children diagnosed with autism (N = 92), siblings without a diagnosis (N = 42), and unrelated children (N = 40) without a diagnosis who were recruited into the Australian Autism Biobank and provided a faecal sample. MIA exposure was inferred from self-reported data and included asthma/allergies, complications during pregnancy triggering an immune response, auto-immune conditions, and acute inflammation. Maternal stress included any of up to 9 stressful life events during pregnancy, such as divorce, job loss, and money problems. Data were analysed for a total of 174 children, of whom 63 (36%) were born to mothers with MIA and 84 (48%) were born to mothers who experienced maternal stress during pregnancy (where 33 [19%] experienced both). Gut microbiome data was assessed using shotgun metagenomic sequencing of the children's faecal samples. Results In our cohort, MIA, but not MatS, was associated with ASD. Variance component analysis revealed no associations between any of the gut microbiome datasets and neither MIA nor MatS. After adjusting for age, sex, diet and autism diagnosis, there was no significant difference between groups for bacterial richness, α-diversity or β-diversity. We found no significant differences in species abundance in the main analyses. However, when stratifying the cohort by age, we found that Faecalibacterium prausnitzii E was significantly decreased in MIA children aged 11-17. Discussion Consistent with previous findings, we found that children who were born to mothers with MIA were more likely to be diagnosed with autism. Unlike within animal studies, we found negligible microbiome differences associated with MIA and maternal stress. Given the current interest in the microbiome-gut-brain axis, researchers should exercise caution in translating microbiome findings from animal models to human contexts and the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlina Vasileva
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Chloe X. Yap
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Long Pocket, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Jacob Gratten
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Long Pocket, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Darryl Eyles
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Wacol, Australia
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Beurel E, Nemeroff CB. Early Life Adversity, Microbiome, and Inflammatory Responses. Biomolecules 2024; 14:802. [PMID: 39062516 PMCID: PMC11275239 DOI: 10.3390/biom14070802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Early life adversity has a profound impact on physical and mental health. Because the central nervous and immune systems are not fully mature at birth and continue to mature during the postnatal period, a bidirectional interaction between the central nervous system and the immune system has been hypothesized, with traumatic stressors during childhood being pivotal in priming individuals for later adult psychopathology. Similarly, the microbiome, which regulates both neurodevelopment and immune function, also matures during childhood, rendering this interaction between the brain and the immune system even more complex. In this review, we provide evidence for the role of the immune response and the microbiome in the deleterious effects of early life adversity, both in humans and rodent models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eléonore Beurel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Charles B. Nemeroff
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Mulva Clinic for Neurosciences, University of Texas (UT) Dell Medical School, Austin, TX 78712, USA
- Mulva Clinic for Neurosciences, UT Austin Dell Medical School, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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Hu JH, Sheng J, Guo HM, Liu H, Zhang X, Han B, Peng K, Ji FH. Association between labor epidural analgesia and gut microbiota: A prospective cohort study. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29883. [PMID: 38699036 PMCID: PMC11064136 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Labor epidural analgesia (LEA) may influence gut microbiota. We explored the association between LEA and gut microbiota for both mothers and their newborns. Methods In this prospective cohort study, parturients aged 25-35 years with a gestational age of 37-42 weeks and planned vaginal delivery were recruited. Twenty-one parturients received LEA (the LEA group), and 24 did not (the control group). Maternal and neonatal fecal samples were collected, and the gut microbiota profiles were analyzed using the 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The impact of LEA on gut microbiota was assessed using the general liner models. Results We showcased the gut microbiota profile from the phyla to species levels based on data on 45 mother-newborn dyads. The results of α- and β-diversity suggested significant changes in gut microbiota between the LEA and control groups. After adjusting for baseline confounders, the administration of LEA had positive correlations with R. ilealis (β = 91.87, adjusted P = 0.007) in mothers; LEA also had negative correlations with A. pittii (β = -449.36, adjusted P = 0.015), P. aeruginosa (β = -192.55, adjusted P = 0.008), or S. maltophilia (β = -142.62, adjusted P = 0.001) in mothers, and with Muribaculaceae (β = -2702.77, adjusted P = 0.003) in neonates. Conclusion LEA was associated with changes in maternal and neonatal gut microbiota, and future studies are still required to assess their impact on clinical outcomes and explore the mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-hui Hu
- Departments of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Institute of Anesthesiology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Sheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hui-min Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bing Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ke Peng
- Departments of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Institute of Anesthesiology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fu-hai Ji
- Departments of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Institute of Anesthesiology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Scheible K, Beblavy R, Sohn MB, Qui X, Gill AL, Narvaez-Miranda J, Brunner J, Miller RK, Barrett ES, O’Connor TG, Gill SR. Affective Symptoms in Pregnancy are Associated with the Vaginal Microbiome. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.12.589254. [PMID: 38645042 PMCID: PMC11030453 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.12.589254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Composition of the vaginal microbiome in pregnancy is associated with adverse maternal, obstetric, and child health outcomes. Identifying the sources of individual differences in the vaginal microbiome is therefore of considerable clinical and public health interest. The current study tested the hypothesis that vaginal microbiome composition during pregnancy is associated with an individual's experience of affective symptoms and stress exposure. Data were based on a prospective longitudinal study of a diverse and medically healthy community sample of 275 mother-infant pairs. Affective symptoms and stress exposure and select measures of associated biomarkers (diurnal salivary cortisol, serum measures of sex hormones) were collected at each trimester; self-report, clinical, and medical records were used to collect detailed data on socio-demographic factors and health behavior, including diet and sleep. Vaginal microbiome samples were collected in the third trimester (34-40 weeks) and characterized by 16S rRNA sequencing. Identified taxa were clustered into three community state types (CST1-3) based on dissimilarity of vaginal microbiota composition. Results indicate that depressive symptoms during pregnancy were reliably associated with individual taxa and CST3 in the third trimester. Prediction of functional potential from 16S taxonomy revealed a differential abundance of metabolic pathways in CST1-3 and individual taxa, including biosynthetic pathways for the neuroactive metabolites, serotonin and dopamine. With the exception of bioavailable testosterone, no significant associations were found between symptoms- and stress-related biomarkers and CSTs. Our results provide further evidence of how prenatal psychological distress during pregnancy alters the maternal-fetal microbiome ecosystem that may be important for understanding maternal and child health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Scheible
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Robert Beblavy
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Michael B. Sohn
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Xing Qui
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Ann L. Gill
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Janiret Narvaez-Miranda
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Jessica Brunner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Richard K. Miller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Emily S. Barrett
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Tom G. O’Connor
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
- Wynne Center for Family Research, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Steven R. Gill
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
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Dong Y, Wang L, Yang M, Zhou X, Li G, Xu K, Ma Y, Chen J, Wang Z, Zhou J, Li H, Zhu Z. Effect of icariin on depressive behaviour in rat pups. Evidences for its mechanism of action by integrating network pharmacology, metabolomics and gut microbiota composition. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 126:155422. [PMID: 38422651 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal stress (PS) can cause cognitive disorder and a range of psychological illnesses, including anxiety and depression. Icariin (ICA) has shown promising effects in improving PS-induced depressive behaviour. However, its mechanism of action remains unclear. PURPOSE This study was performed to reveal the key targets, metabolites and gut microbiota for ICA in improving depressive behaviour in PS rat pups. METHODS A prenatal restraint stress animal model was established for Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats in late pregnancy. Male pups were randomly divided into six groups: no stress group (NS), PS group, PS + saline group (PS_S), PS + high-dose ICA group (ICAH, 80 mg/kg*day), PS + low-dose ICA group (ICAL, 40 mg/kg*day) and PS + fluoxetine group (FLU, 10 mg/kg*day). The depressive behaviour of each group of rat pups was evaluated using open field test, forced swimming test and sucrose preference test. Different metabolites were identified using untargeted metabolomics of serum and faeces, and metabolic pathways were analyzed through MetaboAnalyst. Targets for ICA acting on depression were determined after network pharmacology was applied. An integrated network of network pharmacology and metabolomics were constructed using Cytoscape software, and molecular docking were performed to verify the interactions between ICA and key targets. Finally, gut microbiota of rat pups in each group were analyzed after 16S rDNA sequencing. RESULTS PS could cause rat pups to exhibit depressive behaviour, and ICA could significantly improve this depressive behaviour. A total of 49 differential metabolites were found in serum and 23 differential metabolites were found in faeces, and 24 metabolites in serum and 6 metabolites in faeces could be reversed following ICA administration. Integrated analysis focused on five key targets (i.e. adenosyl homocysteinase; medium-chain specific acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, mitochondrial; thymidine phosphorylase; cGMP-specific 3',5'-cyclic phosphodiesterase and xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase) and three metabolites (i.e. palmitoylcarnitine, methionine and hypoxanthine). Molecular docking indicated that ICA combined well with key targets. Gut microbiota analysis showed that g_Bacteroides, f_Bacteroidaceae and s_Lactobacillus reuteri were required for ICA to improve depressive behaviour. CONCLUSION In this study, the antidepressant mechanism of ICA was clarified with a strategy of integrating metabolomics, network pharmacology and gut microbiota. ICA has a good effect on improving metabolism and increasing the abundance of probiotics in the intestine. The present research provided new insights into the anti-depressant mechanism of ICA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yankai Dong
- Institute of Maternal and Infant Health, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lawen Wang
- Institute of Maternal and Infant Health, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Mingge Yang
- Institute of Maternal and Infant Health, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Institute of Maternal and Infant Health, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ge Li
- Institute of Maternal and Infant Health, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Kaixuan Xu
- Institute of Maternal and Infant Health, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yao Ma
- Institute of Maternal and Infant Health, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jinfeng Chen
- Institute of Maternal and Infant Health, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhifei Wang
- Institute of Maternal and Infant Health, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiahao Zhou
- Institute of Maternal and Infant Health, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Neonatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Zhongliang Zhu
- Institute of Maternal and Infant Health, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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Rajasekera TA, Galley JD, Mackos AR, Chen HJ, Mitchell JG, Kleinman JJ, Cappelucci P, Mashburn-Warren L, Lauber CL, Bailey MT, Worly BL, Gur TL. Stress and depression-associated shifts in gut microbiota: A pilot study of human pregnancy. Brain Behav Immun Health 2024; 36:100730. [PMID: 38323225 PMCID: PMC10844036 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Psychosocial stress and mood-related disorders, such as depression, are prevalent and vulnerability to these conditions is heightened during pregnancy. Psychosocial stress induces consequences via several mechanisms including the gut microbiota-brain axis and associated signaling pathways. Previous preclinical work indicates that prenatal stress alters maternal gut microbial composition and impairs offspring development. Importantly, although the fecal and vaginal microenvironments undergo alterations across pregnancy, we lack consensus regarding which shifts are adaptive or maladaptive in the presence of prenatal stress and depression. Clinical studies interrogating these relationships have identified unique taxa but have been limited in study design. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study of pregnant individuals consisting of repeated administration of psychometrics (Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D)) and collection of fecal and vaginal microbiome samples. Fecal and vaginal microbial community composition across psychometric responses were interrogated using full-length 16S rRNA sequencing followed by α and β-diversity metrics and taxonomic abundance. Results Early pregnancy stress was associated with increased abundance of fecal taxa not previously identified in related studies, and stress from late pregnancy through postpartum was associated with increased abundance of typical vaginal taxa and opportunistic pathogens in the fecal microenvironment. Additionally, in late pregnancy, maternal stress and depression scores were associated with each other and with elevated maternal C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) concentrations. At delivery, concordant with previous literature, umbilical CCL2 concentration was negatively correlated with relative abundance of maternal fecal Lactobacilli. Lastly, participants with more severe depressive symptoms experienced steeper decreases in prenatal vaginal α-diversity. Conclusion These findings a) underscore previous preclinical and clinical research demonstrating the effects of prenatal stress on maternal microbiome composition, b) suggest distinct biological pathways for the consequences of stress versus depression and c) extend the literature by identifying several taxa which may serve critical roles in mediating this relationship. Thus, further interrogation of the role of specific maternal microbial taxa in relation to psychosocial stress and its sequelae is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Therese A. Rajasekera
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jeffrey D. Galley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Amy R. Mackos
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Helen J. Chen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | | | - Paige Cappelucci
- College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Christian L. Lauber
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Michael T. Bailey
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, The Research Institute, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Brett L. Worly
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Tamar L. Gur
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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10
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Belei O, Basaca DG, Olariu L, Pantea M, Bozgan D, Nanu A, Sîrbu I, Mărginean O, Enătescu I. The Interaction between Stress and Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Pediatric and Adult Patients. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1361. [PMID: 38592680 PMCID: PMC10932475 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) have seen an exponential increase in incidence, particularly among pediatric patients. Psychological stress is a significant risk factor influencing the disease course. This review assesses the interaction between stress and disease progression, focusing on articles that quantified inflammatory markers in IBD patients exposed to varying degrees of psychological stress. Methods: A systematic narrative literature review was conducted, focusing on the interaction between IBD and stress among adult and pediatric patients, as well as animal subjects. The research involved searching PubMed, Scopus, Medline, and Cochrane Library databases from 2000 to December 2023. Results: The interplay between the intestinal immunity response, the nervous system, and psychological disorders, known as the gut-brain axis, plays a major role in IBD pathophysiology. Various types of stressors alter gut mucosal integrity through different pathways, increasing gut mucosa permeability and promoting bacterial translocation. A denser microbial load in the gut wall emphasizes cytokine production, worsening the disease course. The risk of developing depression and anxiety is higher in IBD patients compared with the general population, and stress is a significant trigger for inducing acute flares of the disease. Conclusions: Further large studies should be conducted to assess the relationship between stressors, psychological disorders, and their impact on the course of IBD. Clinicians involved in the medical care of IBD patients should aim to implement stress reduction practices in addition to pharmacological therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oana Belei
- First Pediatric Clinic, Disturbances of Growth and Development on Children Research Center, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (O.B.); (O.M.)
- Department of Pediatrics, First Pediatric Clinic, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Diana-Georgiana Basaca
- First Pediatric Clinic, Disturbances of Growth and Development on Children Research Center, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (O.B.); (O.M.)
- Department of Pediatrics, First Pediatric Clinic, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Laura Olariu
- Department of Pediatrics, First Pediatric Clinic, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Manuela Pantea
- Twelfth Department, Neonatology Clinic, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (M.P.); (I.E.)
| | - Daiana Bozgan
- Clinic of Neonatology, “Pius Brânzeu” County Emergency Clinical Hospital, 300723 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Anda Nanu
- Third Pediatric Clinic, “Louis Țurcanu” Emergency Children Hospital, 300011 Timișoara, Romania; (A.N.); (I.S.)
| | - Iuliana Sîrbu
- Third Pediatric Clinic, “Louis Țurcanu” Emergency Children Hospital, 300011 Timișoara, Romania; (A.N.); (I.S.)
| | - Otilia Mărginean
- First Pediatric Clinic, Disturbances of Growth and Development on Children Research Center, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (O.B.); (O.M.)
- Department of Pediatrics, First Pediatric Clinic, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Ileana Enătescu
- Twelfth Department, Neonatology Clinic, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (M.P.); (I.E.)
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11
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Petakh P, Oksenych V, Kamyshna I, Boisak I, Lyubomirskaya K, Kamyshnyi O. Exploring the complex interplay: gut microbiome, stress, and leptospirosis. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1345684. [PMID: 38476949 PMCID: PMC10927737 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1345684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis, a re-emerging zoonotic disease, remains a significant global health concern, especially amid floods and disasters such as the Kakhovka Dam destruction. As is known, the stress that occurs in the conditions of military conflicts among civilian and military personnel significantly affects susceptibility to infectious diseases and possibly even influences their course. This review aims to explore how the gut microbiome and stress mediators (such as catecholamines and corticosteroids) might impact the leptospirosis disease course. The review opens new horizons for research by elucidating the connections between the gut microbiome, stress, and leptospirosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavlo Petakh
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Uzhhorod National University, Uzhhorod, Ukraine
- Department of Microbiology, Virology, and Immunology, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Valentyn Oksenych
- Broegelmann Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Iryna Kamyshna
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Iryna Boisak
- Department of Childhood Diseases, Uzhhorod National University, Uzhhorod, Ukraine
| | - Katerina Lyubomirskaya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zaporizhzhia State Medical and Pharmaceuticals University, Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine
| | - Oleksandr Kamyshnyi
- Department of Microbiology, Virology, and Immunology, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine
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12
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Kimmel MC, Verosky B, Chen HJ, Davis O, Gur TL. The Maternal Microbiome as a Map to Understanding the Impact of Prenatal Stress on Offspring Psychiatric Health. Biol Psychiatry 2024; 95:300-309. [PMID: 38042328 PMCID: PMC10884954 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2023.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Stress and psychiatric disorders have been independently associated with disruption of the maternal and offspring microbiome and with increased risk of the offspring developing psychiatric disorders, both in clinical studies and in preclinical studies. However, the role of the microbiome in mediating the effect of prenatal stress on offspring behavior is unclear. While preclinical studies have identified several key mechanisms, clinical studies focusing on mechanisms are limited. In this review, we discuss 3 specific mechanisms by which the microbiome could mediate the effects of prenatal stress: 1) altered production of short-chain fatty acids; 2) disruptions in TH17 (T helper 17) cell differentiation, leading to maternal and fetal immune activation; and 3) perturbation of intestinal and microbial tryptophan metabolism and serotonergic signaling. Finally, we review the existing clinical literature focusing on these mechanisms and highlight the need for additional mechanistic clinical research to better understand the role of the microbiome in the context of prenatal stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary C Kimmel
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
| | - Branden Verosky
- Ohio State University College of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Helen J Chen
- Ohio State University College of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Olivia Davis
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Tamar L Gur
- Ohio State University College of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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13
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Madison AA, Bailey MT. Stressed to the Core: Inflammation and Intestinal Permeability Link Stress-Related Gut Microbiota Shifts to Mental Health Outcomes. Biol Psychiatry 2024; 95:339-347. [PMID: 38353184 PMCID: PMC10867428 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2023.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Stress levels are surging, alongside the incidence of stress-related psychiatric disorders. Perhaps a related phenomenon, especially in urban areas, the human gut contains fewer bacterial species than ever before. Although the functional implications of this absence are unclear, one consequence may be reduced stress resilience. Preclinical and clinical evidence has shown how stress exposure can alter the gut microbiota and their metabolites, affecting host physiology. Also, stress-related shifts in the gut microbiota jeopardize tight junctions of the gut barrier. In this context, bacteria and bacterial products can translocate from the gut to the bloodstream, lymph nodes, and other organs, thereby modifying systemic inflammatory responses. Heightened circulating inflammation can be an etiological factor in stress-related psychiatric disorders, including some cases of depression. In this review, we detail preclinical and clinical evidence that traces these brain-to-gut-to-brain pathways that underlie stress-related psychiatric disorders and potentially affect their responsivity to conventional psychiatric medications. We also review evidence for interventions that modulate the gut microbiota (e.g., antibiotics, probiotics, prebiotics) to reduce stress responses and psychiatric symptoms. Lastly, we discuss challenges to translation and opportunities for innovations that could impact future psychiatric clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelise A Madison
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Psychology, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.
| | - Michael T Bailey
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Center for Microbial Pathogenesis and the Oral and Gastrointestinal Microbiology Research Affinity Group, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.
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14
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Deflorin N, Ehlert U, Amiel Castro RT. Associations of maternal prenatal psychological symptoms and saliva cortisol with neonatal meconium microbiota: A cross-sectional study. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 129:110895. [PMID: 37951341 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
Alterations in the diversity and relative abundances of the gut microbiome have been associated with a broad spectrum of medical conditions. Maternal psychological symptoms during pregnancy may impact on offspring development by altering the maternal and the foetal gut microbiome. We aimed to investigate whether self-reported maternal anxiety, depressive symptoms, and distress as well as saliva cortisol levels in late pregnancy alter the bacterial composition of the infant's meconium. METHODS A total of N = 100 mother-infant pairs were included. Maternal psychological symptoms were measured using psychological questionnaires (EPDS, PSS-10, STAI) at 34-36 weeks gestation and salivary cortisol was measured at 34-36 and 38 weeks gestation. Infant meconium samples were collected in the first five days postpartum and analysed using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. RESULTS Correlations showed that lower alpha diversity of the meconium microbiome was significantly associated with increased maternal prenatal depressive symptoms in late gestation (τ = -0.15, p = .04). Increased saliva cortisol AUCg at T2 was significantly related to higher beta diversity of the meconium samples (Pr(>F) = 0.003*). Pseudomonas was the most abundant phylum and was associated with maternal saliva cortisol total decline. No other associations were found. CONCLUSIONS Maternal prenatal depressive symptoms are associated with infant faecal microbiome alpha diversity, whereas maternal saliva cortisol AUCg is linked to increased beta diversity and total decline related to increased Psuedomonas. Future studies are warranted to understand how these microbiota community alterations are linked to child health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Deflorin
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Ehlert
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rita T Amiel Castro
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
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15
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Cullen AE, Labad J, Oliver D, Al-Diwani A, Minichino A, Fusar-Poli P. The Translational Future of Stress Neurobiology and Psychosis Vulnerability: A Review of the Evidence. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:350-377. [PMID: 36946486 PMCID: PMC10845079 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230322145049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychosocial stress is a well-established risk factor for psychosis, yet the neurobiological mechanisms underlying this relationship have yet to be fully elucidated. Much of the research in this field has investigated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function and immuno-inflammatory processes among individuals with established psychotic disorders. However, as such studies are limited in their ability to provide knowledge that can be used to develop preventative interventions, it is important to shift the focus to individuals with increased vulnerability for psychosis (i.e., high-risk groups). In the present article, we provide an overview of the current methods for identifying individuals at high-risk for psychosis and review the psychosocial stressors that have been most consistently associated with psychosis risk. We then describe a network of interacting physiological systems that are hypothesised to mediate the relationship between psychosocial stress and the manifestation of psychotic illness and critically review evidence that abnormalities within these systems characterise highrisk populations. We found that studies of high-risk groups have yielded highly variable findings, likely due to (i) the heterogeneity both within and across high-risk samples, (ii) the diversity of psychosocial stressors implicated in psychosis, and (iii) that most studies examine single markers of isolated neurobiological systems. We propose that to move the field forward, we require well-designed, largescale translational studies that integrate multi-domain, putative stress-related biomarkers to determine their prognostic value in high-risk samples. We advocate that such investigations are highly warranted, given that psychosocial stress is undoubtedly a relevant risk factor for psychotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis E. Cullen
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Insurance Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Javier Labad
- CIBERSAM, Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Mental Health and Addictions, Consorci Sanitari del Maresme, Mataró, Spain
| | - Dominic Oliver
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Al-Diwani
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Amedeo Minichino
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Paolo Fusar-Poli
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- OASIS Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- National Institute of Health Research Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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16
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Weiss SJ, Hamidi M. Maternal stress during the third trimester of pregnancy and the neonatal microbiome. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2023; 36:2214835. [PMID: 37217447 PMCID: PMC11062404 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2023.2214835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Preliminary research suggests that maternal prenatal stress may alter the development of the fetal microbiome and resulting microbial composition after birth. However, the findings of existing studies are mixed and inconclusive. The purpose of this exploratory study was to assess whether maternal stress during pregnancy is associated with the overall number and diversity of various microbial species in the infant gut microbiome or the abundance of specific bacterial taxa. METHODS Fifty-one women were recruited during their third trimester of pregnancy. The women completed a demographic questionnaire and Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale at recruitment. A stool sample was collected from their neonate at one month of age. Data on potential confounders, such as gestational age and mode of delivery, were extracted from medical records to control for their effects. 16s rRNA gene sequencing was used to identify the diversity and abundance of microbial species, along with multiple linear regression models to examine the effects of prenatal stress on microbial diversity. We employed negative binomial generalized linear models to test for differential expression of various microbial taxa among infants exposed to prenatal stress and those not exposed to prenatal stress. RESULTS More severe symptoms of prenatal stress were associated with a greater diversity of microbial species in the gut microbiome of neonates (β = .30, p = .025). Certain microbial taxa, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, were enriched among infants exposed to greater maternal stress in utero, while others, such as Bacteroides and Enterobacteriaceae, were depleted in contrast to infants exposed to less stress. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that mild to moderate stress exposure in utero could be associated with a microbial environment in early life that is more optimally prepared to thrive in a stressful postnatal environment. Adaptation of gut microbiota under conditions of stress may involve upregulation of bacterial species, including certain protective microorganisms (e.g. Bifidobacterium), as well as downregulation of potential pathogens (e.g. Bacteroides) via epigenetic or other processes within the fetal/neonatal gut-brain axis. However, further research is needed to understand the trajectory of microbial diversity and composition as infant development proceeds and the ways in which both the structure and function of the neonatal microbiome may mediate the relationship between prenatal stress and health outcomes over time. These studies may eventually yield microbial markers and gene pathways that are biosignatures of risk or resilience and inform targets for probiotics or other therapies in utero or during the postnatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra J. Weiss
- Department of Community Health Systems, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Maryam Hamidi
- School of Health and Natural Sciences, Dominican University of California, San Rafael, CA, USA
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17
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Rojas L, van de Wouw M, Wang Y, Vaghef-Mehrabani E, Dewey D, Reimer RA, Letourneau N, Campbell T, Arrieta MC, Giesbrecht GF. Long-term and trimester-specific effects of prenatal stress on the child gut microbiota. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 158:106380. [PMID: 37696229 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Stress is common among pregnant individuals and is associated with an altered gut microbiota composition in infants. It is unknown if these compositional changes persist into the preschool years when the gut microbiota reaches an adult-like composition. This study aimed to investigate if indicators of prenatal stress (i.e., psychological distress and stress-related physiology) are associated with children's gut microbiota composition and metabolites at 3-4 years of age. METHODS Maternal-child pairs (n = 131) were from the Alberta Pregnancy Outcomes and Nutrition (APrON) cohort. Each trimester, psychological distress was measured as symptoms of anxiety (Symptom Checklist-90-R) and depressed mood (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), whereas salivary cortisol was quantified as a measure of stress-related physiology. Child stool samples were collected at 3-4 years to evaluate gut microbiota composition using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and fecal metabolome using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Associations between prenatal distress and cortisol with the gut microbiota were determined using Pearson and Spearman correlations and corrected for multiple testing. Associations between prenatal distress and cortisol with the fecal metabolome were assessed using Metaboanalyst. RESULTS Symptoms of depressed mood during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters and anxiety during the 2nd trimester of pregnancy were associated with increased alpha diversity of the child's gut microbiota. Cortisol levels during the 1st trimester were also associated with increased Faith PD diversity (r = 0.32), whereas cortisol levels during the 2nd trimester were associated with reduced Shannon diversity (r = -0.27). Depression scores during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters were associated with reductions in the relative abundances of Eggerthella, Parasutterella, and increases in Ruminococcaceae (rs = -0.28, rs = -0.32, rs = 0.32, respectively), as well as the fecal metabolome (e.g., branched-chain amino acid metabolism). Cortisol levels during the 2nd trimester correlated with 7 bacterial taxa, whereas 1st-trimester cortisol levels were associated with the child's fecal metabolome. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal distress and cortisol were associated with both child gut microbiota composition and fecal metabolome at preschool age. Understanding these associations may allow for the identification of microbiota-targeted interventions to support child developmental outcomes affected by prenatal stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Rojas
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Marcel van de Wouw
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Yanan Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Microbiomes for One Systems Health, Health & Biosecurity, CSIRO, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Deborah Dewey
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute (HBI), Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Raylene A Reimer
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Nicole Letourneau
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta
| | - Tavis Campbell
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Marie-Claire Arrieta
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada; International Microbiome Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gerald F Giesbrecht
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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18
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Mepham J, Nelles-McGee T, Andrews K, Gonzalez A. Exploring the effect of prenatal maternal stress on the microbiomes of mothers and infants: A systematic review. Dev Psychobiol 2023; 65:e22424. [PMID: 37860905 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal maternal stress (PNMS)-characterized by exposure to stress, anxiety, depression, or intimate partner violence-has been linked to biological alterations in infants, including disruptions to their intestinal microbiota, which have long-term implications for children's developmental outcomes. Significant research has been done examining the effects of PNMS on the microbiome in animals, but less is known about these effects in human research. The current systematic review aimed to synthesize current findings on the association between PNMS and mother and infant microbiomes. Medline, Embase, PsycInfo, Web of Science, and Eric databases were searched through to February 2022. A total of eight studies (n = 2219 infants, 2202 mothers) were included in the qualitative synthesis. Findings provided promising evidence of the role that PNMS plays in altering the microbial composition, diversity, and gut immunity in mothers and infants. Notably, majority of included studies found that higher PNMS was linked to increases in genera from the phylum Proteobacteria. The factors influencing these effects are explored including nutrition, birth mode, and parenting behaviors. Potential interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of PNMS are discussed, along with recommendations for future studies with longitudinal designs to better understand the appropriate type and timing of interventions needed to promote "healthy" maternal and infant microbial functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Mepham
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Taylor Nelles-McGee
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Krysta Andrews
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea Gonzalez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Zhang A, de Ángel Solá D, Acevedo Flores M, Cao L, Wang L, Kim JG, Tarr PI, Warner BB, Rosario Matos N, Wang L. Infants exposed in utero to Hurricane Maria have gut microbiomes with reduced diversity and altered metabolic capacity. mSphere 2023; 8:e0013423. [PMID: 37754563 PMCID: PMC10597457 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00134-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome is a potentially important mechanism that links prenatal disaster exposures with increased disease risks. However, whether prenatal disaster exposures are associated with alterations in the infant's gut microbiome remains unknown. We established a birth cohort study named Hurricane as the Origin of Later Alterations in Microbiome (HOLA) after Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico in 2017. We enrolled vaginally born Latino term infants aged 2 to 6 months, including n = 29 infants who were exposed in utero to Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico and n = 34 infants who were conceived at least 5 months after the hurricane as controls. Shotgun metagenomic sequencing was performed on infant stool swabs. Infants exposed in utero to Hurricane Maria had a reduced diversity in their gut microbiome compared to the control infants, which was mainly seen in the exclusively formula-fed group (P = 0.02). Four bacterial species, including Bacteroides vulgatus, Clostridium innocuum, Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum, and Clostridium neonatale, were depleted in the exposure group compared to the control group. Compositional differences in the microbial community and metabolic genes between the exposure and control groups were significant, which were driven by the formula feeding group (P = 0.02 for the microbial community and P = 0.008 for the metabolic genes). Metabolic modules involved in carbohydrate metabolism were reduced in the exposure group. Prenatal maternal exposure to Hurricane Maria was associated with a reduced gut commensal and an altered microbial composition and metabolic potential in the offspring's gut. Breastfeeding can adjust the composition of the gut microbiomes of exposed infants. IMPORTANCE Climate change is a serious issue that is affecting human health. With more frequent and intense weather disasters due to climate change, there is an urgent need to evaluate and understand the impacts of prenatal disaster exposures on the offspring. The prenatal stage is a particularly vulnerable stage for disease origination. However, the impact of prenatal weather disaster exposures on the offspring's gut microbiome has not been evaluated. Our HOLA study starts to fill this knowledge gap and provides novel insights into the microbiome as a mechanism that links prenatal disaster exposures with elevated disease risks. Our major finding that reduced microbial diversity and altered metabolic capacity are associated with prenatal hurricane exposures warrants further studies to evaluate the impact of weather disasters on the unborn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - David de Ángel Solá
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Midnela Acevedo Flores
- Department of Pediatrics and Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Juan City Hospital Research Unit, San Juan Hospital, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Lijuan Cao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Leran Wang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Edison Family Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Josh G. Kim
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Phillip I. Tarr
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Barbara B. Warner
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Nicolás Rosario Matos
- Department of Pediatrics and Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Juan City Hospital Research Unit, San Juan Hospital, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Leyao Wang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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20
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Risely A, Müller-Klein N, Schmid DW, Wilhelm K, Clutton-Brock TH, Manser MB, Sommer S. Climate change drives loss of bacterial gut mutualists at the expense of host survival in wild meerkats. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2023; 29:5816-5828. [PMID: 37485753 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.16877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Climate change and climate-driven increases in infectious disease threaten wildlife populations globally. Gut microbial responses are predicted to either buffer or exacerbate the negative impacts of these twin pressures on host populations. However, examples that document how gut microbial communities respond to long-term shifts in climate and associated disease risk, and the consequences for host survival, are rare. Over the past two decades, wild meerkats inhabiting the Kalahari have experienced rapidly rising temperatures, which is linked to the spread of tuberculosis (TB). We show that over the same period, the faecal microbiota of this population has become enriched in Bacteroidia and impoverished in lactic acid bacteria (LAB), a group of bacteria including Lactococcus and Lactobacillus that are considered gut mutualists. These shifts occurred within individuals yet were compounded over generations, and were better explained by mean maximum temperatures than mean rainfall over the previous year. Enriched Bacteroidia were additionally associated with TB exposure and disease, the dry season and poorer body condition, factors that were all directly linked to reduced future survival. Lastly, abundances of LAB taxa were independently and positively linked to future survival, while enriched taxa did not predict survival. Together, these results point towards extreme temperatures driving an expansion of a disease-associated pathobiome and loss of beneficial taxa. Our study provides the first evidence from a longitudinally sampled population that climate change is restructuring wildlife gut microbiota, and that these changes may amplify the negative impacts of climate change through the loss of gut mutualists. While the plastic response of host-associated microbiotas is key for host adaptation under normal environmental fluctuations, extreme temperature increases might lead to a breakdown of coevolved host-mutualist relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Risely
- Institute for Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- School of Science, Engineering, and the Environment, Salford University, Salford, UK
| | - Nadine Müller-Klein
- Institute for Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Dominik W Schmid
- Institute for Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Kerstin Wilhelm
- Institute for Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tim H Clutton-Brock
- Large Animal Research Group, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Kalahari Research Trust, Kuruman River Reserve, Van Zylsrus, Northern Cape, South Africa
| | - Marta B Manser
- Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Kalahari Research Trust, Kuruman River Reserve, Van Zylsrus, Northern Cape, South Africa
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simone Sommer
- Institute for Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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21
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Leigh SJ, Uhlig F, Wilmes L, Sanchez-Diaz P, Gheorghe CE, Goodson MS, Kelley-Loughnane N, Hyland NP, Cryan JF, Clarke G. The impact of acute and chronic stress on gastrointestinal physiology and function: a microbiota-gut-brain axis perspective. J Physiol 2023; 601:4491-4538. [PMID: 37756251 DOI: 10.1113/jp281951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The physiological consequences of stress often manifest in the gastrointestinal tract. Traumatic or chronic stress is associated with widespread maladaptive changes throughout the gut, although comparatively little is known about the effects of acute stress. Furthermore, these stress-induced changes in the gut may increase susceptibility to gastrointestinal disorders and infection, and impact critical features of the neural and behavioural consequences of the stress response by impairing gut-brain axis communication. Understanding the mechanisms behind changes in enteric nervous system circuitry, visceral sensitivity, gut barrier function, permeability, and the gut microbiota following stress is an important research objective with pathophysiological implications in both neurogastroenterology and psychiatry. Moreover, the gut microbiota has emerged as a key aspect of physiology sensitive to the effects of stress. In this review, we focus on different aspects of the gastrointestinal tract including gut barrier function as well as the immune, humoral and neuronal elements involved in gut-brain communication. Furthermore, we discuss the evidence for a role of stress in gastrointestinal disorders. Existing gaps in the current literature are highlighted, and possible avenues for future research with an integrated physiological perspective have been suggested. A more complete understanding of the spatial and temporal dynamics of the integrated host and microbial response to different kinds of stressors in the gastrointestinal tract will enable full exploitation of the diagnostic and therapeutic potential in the fast-evolving field of host-microbiome interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah-Jane Leigh
- APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Friederike Uhlig
- APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Physiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Lars Wilmes
- APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Paula Sanchez-Diaz
- APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Cassandra E Gheorghe
- APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Michael S Goodson
- 711th Human Performance Wing, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio, USA
| | - Nancy Kelley-Loughnane
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio, USA
| | - Niall P Hyland
- APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Physiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - John F Cryan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Gerard Clarke
- APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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22
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Warner BB, Rosa BA, Ndao IM, Tarr PI, Miller JP, England SK, Luby JL, Rogers CE, Hall-Moore C, Bryant RE, Wang JD, Linneman LA, Smyser TA, Smyser CD, Barch DM, Miller GE, Chen E, Martin J, Mitreva M. Social and psychological adversity are associated with distinct mother and infant gut microbiome variations. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5824. [PMID: 37726348 PMCID: PMC10509221 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41421-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Health disparities are driven by underlying social disadvantage and psychosocial stressors. However, how social disadvantage and psychosocial stressors lead to adverse health outcomes is unclear, particularly when exposure begins prenatally. Variations in the gut microbiome and circulating proinflammatory cytokines offer potential mechanistic pathways. Here, we interrogate the gut microbiome of mother-child dyads to compare high-versus-low prenatal social disadvantage, psychosocial stressors and maternal circulating cytokine cohorts (prospective case-control study design using gut microbiomes from 121 dyads profiled with 16 S rRNA sequencing and 89 dyads with shotgun metagenomic sequencing). Gut microbiome characteristics significantly predictive of social disadvantage and psychosocial stressors in the mothers and children indicate that different discriminatory taxa and related pathways are involved, including many species of Bifidobacterium and related pathways across several comparisons. The lowest inter-individual gut microbiome similarity was observed among high-social disadvantage/high-psychosocial stressors mothers, suggesting distinct environmental exposures driving a diverging gut microbiome assembly compared to low-social disadvantage/low-psychosocial stressors controls (P = 3.5 × 10-5 for social disadvantage, P = 2.7 × 10-15 for psychosocial stressors). Children's gut metagenome profiles at 4 months also significantly predicted high/low maternal prenatal IL-6 (P = 0.029), with many bacterial species overlapping those identified by social disadvantage and psychosocial stressors. These differences, based on maternal social and psychological status during a critical developmental window early in life, offer potentially modifiable targets to mitigate health inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara B Warner
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
| | - Bruce A Rosa
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - I Malick Ndao
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Phillip I Tarr
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - J Philip Miller
- Institute for Informatics, Data Science and Biostatistics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Sarah K England
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Joan L Luby
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Cynthia E Rogers
- Departments of Psychiatry and Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Carla Hall-Moore
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Renay E Bryant
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Jacqueline D Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Laura A Linneman
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Tara A Smyser
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Christopher D Smyser
- Departments of Neurology, Pediatrics and Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Deanna M Barch
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Psychiatry, & Radiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Gregory E Miller
- Institute for Policy Research & Department of Psychology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Edith Chen
- Institute for Policy Research & Department of Psychology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - John Martin
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Makedonka Mitreva
- Departments of Medicine and Genetics, and McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
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23
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Fernández-Tuñas MDC, Pérez-Muñuzuri A, Trastoy-Pena R, Pérez del Molino ML, Couce ML. Effects of Maternal Stress on Breast Milk Production and the Microbiota of Very Premature Infants. Nutrients 2023; 15:4006. [PMID: 37764789 PMCID: PMC10534677 DOI: 10.3390/nu15184006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Perinatal stress experienced by mothers of very premature newborns may influence the mother's milk and the infant's intestinal microbiota. This prospective study of mothers of very preterm infants fed with mother's own milk (MOM) was carried out in a tertiary hospital over a 2-year period. The assessment of maternal stress in 45 mothers of 52 very preterm newborns using the parental stress scale (PSS:NICU) revealed an inverse relationship between stress and MOM production in the first days of life (p = 0.012). The greatest contributor to stress was the one related to the establishment of a mother-child bond. Maternal stress was lower in mothers in whom the kangaroo method was established early (p = 0.011) and in those with a higher educational level (p = 0.032). Levels of fecal calprotectin (FC) decreased with the passage of days and were directly correlated with birthweight (p = 0.044). FC levels 7 days post-delivery were lower in newborns that received postnatal antibiotics (p = 0.027). High levels of maternal stress resulted in progressive decreases and increases in the proportions of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria species, respectively, over 15 days post-delivery, both in MOM and in fecal samples from premature newborns. These findings underscore the importance of recognizing and appropriately managing maternal stress in neonatal units, given its marked influence on both the microbiota of maternal milk and the intestinal microbiota of premature newborns.
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Affiliation(s)
- María del Carmen Fernández-Tuñas
- Department of Neonatology, University Clinical Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
- IDIS-Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Primary Care Interventions to Prevent Maternal and Child Chronic Diseases of Perinatal and Developmental Origin (RICORS-SAMID), Carlos III Health Institute, 5 Monforte de Lemos Av., 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Pérez-Muñuzuri
- Department of Neonatology, University Clinical Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
- IDIS-Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Primary Care Interventions to Prevent Maternal and Child Chronic Diseases of Perinatal and Developmental Origin (RICORS-SAMID), Carlos III Health Institute, 5 Monforte de Lemos Av., 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Rocío Trastoy-Pena
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela University, 15706 A Coruña, Spain; (R.T.-P.); (M.L.P.d.M.)
| | - María Luisa Pérez del Molino
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela University, 15706 A Coruña, Spain; (R.T.-P.); (M.L.P.d.M.)
| | - María L. Couce
- Department of Neonatology, University Clinical Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
- IDIS-Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Primary Care Interventions to Prevent Maternal and Child Chronic Diseases of Perinatal and Developmental Origin (RICORS-SAMID), Carlos III Health Institute, 5 Monforte de Lemos Av., 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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24
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Ahmadi H, Aghebati-Maleki L, Rashidiani S, Csabai T, Nnaemeka OB, Szekeres-Bartho J. Long-Term Effects of ART on the Health of the Offspring. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13564. [PMID: 37686370 PMCID: PMC10487905 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) significantly increase the chance of successful pregnancy and live birth in infertile couples. The different procedures for ART, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and gamete intrafallopian tube transfer (GIFT), are widely used to overcome infertility-related problems. In spite of its inarguable usefulness, concerns about the health consequences of ART-conceived babies have been raised. There are reports about the association of ART with birth defects and health complications, e.g., malignancies, high blood pressure, generalized vascular functional disorders, asthma and metabolic disorders in later life. It has been suggested that hormonal treatment of the mother, and the artificial environment during the manipulation of gametes and embryos may cause genomic and epigenetic alterations and subsequent complications in the health status of ART-conceived babies. In the current study, we aimed to review the possible long-term consequences of different ART procedures on the subsequent health status of ART-conceived offspring, considering the confounding factors that might account for/contribute to the long-term consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Ahmadi
- Department of Medical Biology and Central Electron Microscope Laboratory, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.A.); (T.C.)
| | - Leili Aghebati-Maleki
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5165665931, Iran;
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5165665931, Iran
| | - Shima Rashidiani
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Timea Csabai
- Department of Medical Biology and Central Electron Microscope Laboratory, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.A.); (T.C.)
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Endocrine Studies, Centre of Excellence, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory of Human Reproduction, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Obodo Basil Nnaemeka
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Pécs University, 7621 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Julia Szekeres-Bartho
- Department of Medical Biology and Central Electron Microscope Laboratory, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.A.); (T.C.)
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Endocrine Studies, Centre of Excellence, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory of Human Reproduction, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- MTA—PTE Human Reproduction Research Group, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
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25
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Yeramilli V, Cheddadi R, Benjamin H, Martin C. The Impact of Stress, Microbial Dysbiosis, and Inflammation on Necrotizing Enterocolitis. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2206. [PMID: 37764050 PMCID: PMC10534571 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11092206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the leading cause of intestinal morbidity and mortality in neonates. A large body of work exists; however, the pathogenesis of NEC remains poorly understood. Numerous predictors have been implicated in the development of NEC, with relatively less emphasis on maternal factors. Utilizing human tissue plays a crucial role in enhancing our comprehension of the underlying mechanisms accountable for this devastating disease. In this review, we will discuss how maternal stress affects the pathogenesis of NEC and how changes in the intestinal microbiome can influence the development of NEC. We will also discuss the results of transcriptomics-based studies and analyze the gene expression changes in NEC tissues and other molecular targets associated with the pathogenesis of NEC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Colin Martin
- Division of Pediatric, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave. S., Lowder Building Suite 300, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
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26
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Yelverton CA, Killeen SL, Feehily C, Moore RL, Callaghan SL, Geraghty AA, Byrne DF, Walsh CJ, Lawton EM, Murphy EF, Van Sinderen D, Cotter PD, McAuliffe FM. Maternal breastfeeding is associated with offspring microbiome diversity; a secondary analysis of the MicrobeMom randomized control trial. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1154114. [PMID: 37720155 PMCID: PMC10502216 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1154114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Microbial dysbiosis in infancy can influence long-term health outcomes such as childhood obesity. The aim of this study is to explore relationships among maternal well-being during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and the infant gut microbiome. Methods This is a secondary analysis of healthy pregnant women from the MicrobeMom study, a double-blind randomized control trial of maternal probiotic supplementation (Bifidobacterium breve 702258) versus placebo antenatally and up to 3 months postpartum. Maternal well-being was assessed using the WHO-5 well-being index at 16 weeks' and 34 weeks' gestation. Breastfeeding practices were recorded at discharge from hospital and at 1 month postpartum. Infant stool samples were obtained at 1 month of age. Next generation shotgun sequencing determined infant microbial diversity. Independent sample t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests informed adjusted regression analysis, which was adjusted for delivery mode, antibiotics during delivery, maternal age and body mass index (BMI), and probiotic vs. control study group. Results Women (n = 118) with at least one measure of well-being were on average 33 years (SD 3.93) of age and 25.09 kg/m2 (SD 3.28) BMI. Exclusive breastfeeding was initiated by 65% (n = 74). Any breastfeeding was continued by 69% (n = 81) after 1 month. In early and late pregnancy, 87% (n = 97/111) and 94% (n = 107/114) had high well-being scores. Well-being was not associated with infant microbial diversity at 1 month. In adjusted analysis, exclusive breastfeeding at discharge from hospital was associated with infant microbial beta diversity (PC2; 0.254, 95% CI 0.006, 0.038). At 1 month postpartum, any breastfeeding was associated with infant microbial alpha diversity (Shannon index; -0.241, 95% CI -0.498, -0.060) and observed species; (-0.325, 95% CI -0.307, -0.060), and infant microbial beta diversity (PC2; 0.319, 95% CI 0.013, 0.045). Exclusive breastfeeding at 1 month postpartum was associated with infant alpha diversity (Shannon index -0.364, 95% CI -0.573, -0.194; Simpson index 0.339, 95% CI 0.027, 0.091), and infant's number of observed microbial species (-0.271, 95% CI -0.172, -0.037). Conclusion Breastfeeding practices at 1 month postpartum were associated with lower microbial diversity and observed species in infants at 1 month postpartum, which is potentially beneficial to allow greater abundance of Bifidobacterium. Clinical trial registration ISRCTN53023014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara A. Yelverton
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sarah Louise Killeen
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Conor Feehily
- APC Microbiome Ireland, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Cork, Ireland
| | - Rebecca L. Moore
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Shauna L. Callaghan
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aisling A. Geraghty
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- UCD Institute of Food and Health, School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David F. Byrne
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Calum J. Walsh
- APC Microbiome Ireland, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Cork, Ireland
| | - Elaine M. Lawton
- APC Microbiome Ireland, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Douwe Van Sinderen
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Paul D. Cotter
- APC Microbiome Ireland, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Cork, Ireland
| | - Fionnuala M. McAuliffe
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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27
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Blackmer-Raynolds L, Sampson TR. Overview of the Gut Microbiome. Semin Neurol 2023; 43:518-529. [PMID: 37562449 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1771463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
The human gastrointestinal tract is home to trillions of microorganisms-collectively referred to as the gut microbiome-that maintain a symbiotic relationship with their host. This diverse community of microbes grows and changes as we do, with developmental, lifestyle, and environmental factors all shaping microbiome community structure. Increasing evidence suggests this relationship is bidirectional, with the microbiome also influencing host physiological processes. For example, changes in the gut microbiome have been shown to alter neurodevelopment and have lifelong effects on the brain and behavior. Age-related changes in gut microbiome composition have also been linked to inflammatory changes in the brain, perhaps increasing susceptibility to neurological disease. Indeed, associations between gut dysbiosis and many age-related neurological diseases-including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-have been reported. Further, microbiome manipulation in animal models of disease highlights a potential role for the gut microbiome in disease development and progression. Although much remains unknown, these associations open up an exciting new world of therapeutic targets, potentially allowing for improved quality of life for a wide range of patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy R Sampson
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
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28
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Ağagündüz D, Çelik E, Cemali Ö, Bingöl FG, Özenir Ç, Özoğul F, Capasso R. Probiotics, Live Biotherapeutic Products (LBPs), and Gut-Brain Axis Related Psychological Conditions: Implications for Research and Dietetics. Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins 2023; 15:1014-1031. [PMID: 37222849 DOI: 10.1007/s12602-023-10092-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
It is well-known that probiotics have key roles in the crosstalk between the gut and brain in terms of nutrition and health. However, when investigating their role in nutrition and health, it can be important to discriminate probiotics used as foods, food supplements, or drugs. For clarification of this terminology, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established a new "live biotherapeutic products" (LBP) category, expressing pharmaceutical expectations and to reduce confusion in the literature. Growing evidence advises that the community of microorganisms found in the gut microbiota is associated with psychological conditions. Hence, it is thought that LBPs may positively affect depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia by reducing inflammation, improving gut microbiota, and balancing gut neurometabolites. This review focuses on the specific position of probiotics as LBPs in psychological conditions. Condition-specific potential pathways and mechanisms of LBPs and the prominent strains are discussed in the light of novel studies for future research, dietetic and pharmaceutical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duygu Ağagündüz
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Gazi University, Emek, Ankara, 06490, Turkey.
| | - Elif Çelik
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Gazi University, Emek, Ankara, 06490, Turkey
| | - Özge Cemali
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Gazi University, Emek, Ankara, 06490, Turkey
| | - Feray Gençer Bingöl
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, İstiklal Yerleşkesi, Burdur, 15030, Turkey
| | - Çiler Özenir
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Kırıkkale University, Merkez, Kırıkkale, 71100, Turkey
| | - Fatih Özoğul
- Department of Seafood Processing Technology, Faculty of Fisheries, Cukurova University, Balcali, Adana, 01330, Turkey
- Biotechnology Research and Application Center, Cukurova University, Adana, 01330, Turkey
| | - Raffaele Capasso
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055, Portici, NA, Italy
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Anzà S, Schneider D, Daniel R, Heistermann M, Sangmaneedet S, Ostner J, Schülke O. The long-term gut bacterial signature of a wild primate is associated with a timing effect of pre- and postnatal maternal glucocorticoid levels. MICROBIOME 2023; 11:165. [PMID: 37501202 PMCID: PMC10373267 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-023-01596-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During development, elevated levels of maternal glucocorticoids (GCs) can have detrimental effects on offspring morphology, cognition, and behavior as well as physiology and metabolism. Depending on the timing of exposure, such effects may vary in strength or even reverse in direction, may alleviate with age, or may concern more stable and long-term programming of phenotypic traits. Maternal effects on gut bacterial diversity, composition, and function, and the persistence of such effects into adulthood of long-lived model species in the natural habitats remain underexplored. RESULTS In a cross-sectional sample of infant, juvenile, and adult Assamese macaques, the timing of exposure to elevated maternal GCs during ontogeny was associated with the gut bacterial community of the offspring. Specifically, naturally varying maternal GC levels during early but not late gestation or lactation were associated with reduced bacterial richness. The overall effect of maternal GCs during early gestation on the gut bacterial composition and function exacerbated with offspring age and was 10 times stronger than the effect associated with exposure during late prenatal or postnatal periods. Instead, variation in maternal GCs during the late prenatal or postnatal period had less pronounced or less stable statistical effects and therefore a weaker effect on the entire bacterial community composition, particularly in adult individuals. Finally, higher early prenatal GCs were associated with an increase in the relative abundance of several potential pro-inflammatory bacteria and a decrease in the abundance of Bifidobacterium and other anti-inflammatory taxa, an effect that exacerbated with age. CONCLUSIONS In primates, the gut microbiota can be shaped by developmental effects with strong timing effects on plasticity and potentially detrimental consequences for adult health. Together with results on other macaque species, this study suggests potential detrimental developmental effects similar to rapid inflammaging, suggesting that prenatal exposure to high maternal GC concentrations is a common cause underlying both phenomena. Our findings await confirmation by metagenomic functional and causal analyses and by longitudinal studies of long-lived, ecologically flexible primates in their natural habitat, including developmental effects that originate before birth. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Anzà
- Behavioral Ecology Department, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany.
- Primate Social Evolution Group, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany.
- Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany.
- Genomic and Applied Microbiology and Göttingen Genomics Laboratory, Institute of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Dominik Schneider
- Genomic and Applied Microbiology and Göttingen Genomics Laboratory, Institute of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Rolf Daniel
- Genomic and Applied Microbiology and Göttingen Genomics Laboratory, Institute of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Michael Heistermann
- Endocrinology Laboratory, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Somboon Sangmaneedet
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Julia Ostner
- Behavioral Ecology Department, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- Primate Social Evolution Group, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
- Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Schülke
- Behavioral Ecology Department, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- Primate Social Evolution Group, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
- Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
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Querdasi FR, Enders C, Karnani N, Broekman B, Yap Seng C, Gluckman PD, Mary Daniel L, Yap F, Eriksson JG, Cai S, Chong MFF, Toh JY, Godfrey K, Meaney MJ, Callaghan BL. Multigenerational adversity impacts on human gut microbiome composition and socioemotional functioning in early childhood. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2213768120. [PMID: 37463211 PMCID: PMC10372691 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2213768120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Adversity exposures in the prenatal and postnatal period are associated with an increased risk for psychopathology, which can be perpetuated across generations. Nonhuman animal research highlights the gut microbiome as a putative biological mechanism underlying such generational risks. In a sample of 450 mother-child dyads living in Singapore, we examined associations between three distinct adversity exposures experienced across two generations-maternal childhood maltreatment, maternal prenatal anxiety, and second-generation children's exposure to stressful life events-and the gut microbiome composition of second-generation children at 2 y of age. We found distinct differences in gut microbiome profiles linked to each adversity exposure, as well as some nonaffected microbiome features (e.g., beta diversity). Remarkably, some of the microbial taxa associated with concurrent and prospective child socioemotional functioning shared overlapping putative functions with those affected by adversity, suggesting that the intergenerational transmission of adversity may have a lasting impact on children's mental health via alterations to gut microbiome functions. Our findings open up a new avenue of research into the underlying mechanisms of intergenerational transmission of mental health risks and the potential of the gut microbiome as a target for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca R. Querdasi
- Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Craig Enders
- Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Neerja Karnani
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore138632, Singapore
| | - Birit Broekman
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore138632, Singapore
| | - Chong Yap Seng
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore138632, Singapore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore117597, Singapore
| | - Peter D. Gluckman
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore138632, Singapore
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland1023, New Zealand
| | - Lourdes Mary Daniel
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
- Department of Child Development, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore229899, Singapore
| | - Fabian Yap
- Department of Paediatrics, KK Women’s and Children’s Hopsital, Singapore229899, Singapore
- Department of Pediatrics, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore636921, Singapore
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore229899, Singapore
| | - Johan G. Eriksson
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore138632, Singapore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore117597, Singapore
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, 00100Helsinki, Finland
- Program of Public Health Research, Folkhälsan Research Center, 00250Helsinki, Finland
| | - Shirong Cai
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore138632, Singapore
| | - Mary Foong-Fong Chong
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore117561, Singapore
| | - Jia Ying Toh
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore138632, Singapore
| | - Keith Godfrey
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Southampton, SouthamptonSO16 6YD, United Kingdom
- Department of Human Development, University of Southampton, SouthamptonSO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Michael J. Meaney
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore138632, Singapore
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QuebecH3A 0G4, Canada
- Brain–Body Initiative, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore138632, Singapore
| | - Bridget L. Callaghan
- Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA90095
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Adekolurejo OO, McDermott K, Greathead HMR, Miller HM, Mackie AR, Boesch C. Effect of Red-Beetroot-Supplemented Diet on Gut Microbiota Composition and Metabolite Profile of Weaned Pigs-A Pilot Study. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2196. [PMID: 37443994 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Red beetroot is a well-recognized and established source of bioactive compounds (e.g., betalains and polyphenols) with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is proposed as a potential alternative to zinc oxide with a focus on gut microbiota modulation and metabolite production. In this study, weaned pigs aged 28 days were fed either a control diet, a diet supplemented with zinc oxide (3000 mg/kg), or 2% and 4% pulverized whole red beetroot (CON, ZNO, RB2, and RB4; respectively) for 14 days. After pigs were euthanized, blood and digesta samples were collected for microbial composition and metabolite analyses. The results showed that the diet supplemented with red beetroot at 2% improved the gut microbial richness relative to other diets but marginally influenced the cecal microbial diversity compared to a zinc-oxide-supplemented diet. A further increase in red beetroot levels (4%-RB4) led to loss in cecal diversity and decreased short chain fatty acids and secondary bile acid concentrations. Also, an increased Proteobacteria abundance, presumably due to increased lactate/lactic-acid-producing bacteria was observed. In summary, red beetroot contains several components conceived to improve the gut microbiota and metabolite output of weaned pigs. Future studies investigating individual components of red beetroot will better elucidate their contributions to gut microbiota modulation and pig health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Opeyemi O Adekolurejo
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Katie McDermott
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | | | - Helen M Miller
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Alan R Mackie
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Christine Boesch
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
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32
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Zhang X, Huang Y, Lu Y, Mao F, Cao F. Associations of maternal antenatal bonding with neonatal meconium microbiota and the behavior temperament of infants: A prospective longitudinal study. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 163:159-165. [PMID: 37210834 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.05.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to a poor intrauterine environment, such as maternal prenatal stress, has been linked to gut microbiota health in infants. Understanding the link between maternal prenatal bonding, early gut microbiota, and neuropsychological development may promote healthy development in early life. This study included 306 mother-child pairs. Women were assessed for maternal antenatal bonding using the Maternal Antenatal Attachment Scale in all three trimesters of pregnancy. Neonatal meconium samples were collected after birth. The behavioral temperament of infants was measured using the Very Short Form of the Infant Behavior Questionnaire-Revised at 6 months postpartum. Maternal prenatal bonding was negatively associated with the infants' relative abundance of Burkholderia and was positively associated with the relative abundance of Bifidobacterium, infant surgency and effortful control. The infant's relative abundance of Burkholderia mediates the association between maternal prenatal bonding and effortful control of the infant. This study provides new evidence about the long-term behavioral implications of a prenatally positive intrauterine environment in offspring microbiomes. The integration of maternal bonding assessment and intervention into prenatal healthcare and wellness models may modulate the establishment of gut microbiota in early life and long-term neuropsychological development in infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhang
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, 250012, China
| | - Yongqi Huang
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, 250012, China
| | - Yane Lu
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, 250012, China
| | - Fangxiang Mao
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, 250012, China
| | - Fenglin Cao
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, 250012, China.
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33
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Rubinstein MR, Burgueño AL, Quiroga S, Wald MR, Genaro AM. Current Understanding of the Roles of Gut-Brain Axis in the Cognitive Deficits Caused by Perinatal Stress Exposure. Cells 2023; 12:1735. [PMID: 37443769 PMCID: PMC10340286 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The term 'perinatal environment' refers to the period surrounding birth, which plays a crucial role in brain development. It has been suggested that dynamic communication between the neuro-immune system and gut microbiota is essential in maintaining adequate brain function. This interaction depends on the mother's status during pregnancy and/or the newborn environment. Here, we show experimental and clinical evidence that indicates that the perinatal period is a critical window in which stress-induced immune activation and altered microbiota compositions produce lasting behavioral consequences, although a clear causative relationship has not yet been established. In addition, we discuss potential early treatments for preventing the deleterious effect of perinatal stress exposure. In this sense, early environmental enrichment exposure (including exercise) and melatonin use in the perinatal period could be valuable in improving the negative consequences of early adversities. The evidence presented in this review encourages the realization of studies investigating the beneficial role of melatonin administration and environmental enrichment exposure in mitigating cognitive alteration in offspring under perinatal stress exposure. On the other hand, direct evidence of microbiota restoration as the main mechanism behind the beneficial effects of this treatment has not been fully demonstrated and should be explored in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Roxana Rubinstein
- Laboratorio de Psiconeuroendocrinoinmunologia, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)—Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Buenos Aires C1107AFF, Argentina; (A.L.B.); (S.Q.); (M.R.W.)
| | | | | | | | - Ana María Genaro
- Laboratorio de Psiconeuroendocrinoinmunologia, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)—Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Buenos Aires C1107AFF, Argentina; (A.L.B.); (S.Q.); (M.R.W.)
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34
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Rusch JA, Layden BT, Dugas LR. Signalling cognition: the gut microbiota and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1130689. [PMID: 37404311 PMCID: PMC10316519 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1130689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive function in humans depends on the complex and interplay between multiple body systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The gut microbiota, which vastly outnumbers human cells and has a genetic potential that exceeds that of the human genome, plays a crucial role in this interplay. The microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis is a bidirectional signalling pathway that operates through neural, endocrine, immune, and metabolic pathways. One of the major neuroendocrine systems responding to stress is the HPA axis which produces glucocorticoids such as cortisol in humans and corticosterone in rodents. Appropriate concentrations of cortisol are essential for normal neurodevelopment and function, as well as cognitive processes such as learning and memory, and studies have shown that microbes modulate the HPA axis throughout life. Stress can significantly impact the MGB axis via the HPA axis and other pathways. Animal research has advanced our understanding of these mechanisms and pathways, leading to a paradigm shift in conceptual thinking about the influence of the microbiota on human health and disease. Preclinical and human trials are currently underway to determine how these animal models translate to humans. In this review article, we summarize the current knowledge of the relationship between the gut microbiota, HPA axis, and cognition, and provide an overview of the main findings and conclusions in this broad field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jody A. Rusch
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- C17 Chemical Pathology Laboratory, Groote Schuur Hospital, National Health Laboratory Service, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brian T. Layden
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Medicine, Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Lara R. Dugas
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Public Health Sciences, Parkinson School of Health Sciences and Public Health, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States
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35
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Cheddadi R, Khandekar NN, Yeramilli V, Martin C. The impact of maternal stress on the development of necrotizing enterocolitis: A comprehensive review. Semin Pediatr Surg 2023:151324. [PMID: 37316382 DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2023.151324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating intestinal inflammatory disease with significant morbidity and mortality. Numerous predictors have been implicated in the development of NEC, with a relatively less emphasis on maternal factors. Pregnancy drives women into a new stage of life that increases their susceptibility to biological and psychological stress. Additionally, maternal stress during pregnancy has been linked to various complications that can negatively impact both the mother and the developing fetus. These detrimental effects are facilitated by various systemic modifications. Similarly, there is evidence from animal studies that suggest a relationship between maternal stress and the occurrence of NEC due to the alterations observed in neonates. In this review, we will (1) discuss the physiological and psychological burden of maternal stress and how it can be linked to NEC, (2) summarize various predictors and risk factors of NEC, and (3) discuss the most widely utilized animal models for assessing the effects of prenatal stress on offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riadh Cheddadi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's of Alabama, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave. S., Lowder Building Suite 300, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States
| | | | - Venkata Yeramilli
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's of Alabama, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave. S., Lowder Building Suite 300, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States
| | - Colin Martin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's of Alabama, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave. S., Lowder Building Suite 300, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States.
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36
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Agusti A, Lamers F, Tamayo M, Benito-Amat C, Molina-Mendoza GV, Penninx BWJH, Sanz Y. The Gut Microbiome in Early Life Stress: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15112566. [PMID: 37299527 DOI: 10.3390/nu15112566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to early life stress (ELS), prenatal or postnatal during childhood and adolescence, can significantly impact mental and physical health. The role of the intestinal microbiome in human health, and particularly mental health, is becoming increasingly evident. This systematic review aims to summarize the clinical data evaluating the effect of ELS on the human intestinal microbiome. The systematic review (CRD42022351092) was performed following PRISMA guidelines, with ELS considered as exposure to psychological stressors prenatally and during early life (childhood and adolescence). Thirteen articles met all inclusion criteria, and all studies reviewed found a link between ELS and the gut microbiome in both prenatal and postnatal periods. However, we failed to find consensus microbiome signatures associated with pre- or postnatal stress, or both. The inconsistency of results is likely attributed to various factors such as different experimental designs, ages examined, questionnaires, timing of sample collection and analysis methods, small population sizes, and the type of stressors. Additional studies using similar stressors and validated stress measures, as well as higher-resolution microbiome analytical approaches, are needed to draw definitive conclusions about the links between stress and the human gut microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Agusti
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Excellence Center Severo Ochoa-Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), 46980 Valencia, Spain
| | - Femke Lamers
- Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Public Health, Mental Health Program, Department of Psychiatry, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Tamayo
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Excellence Center Severo Ochoa-Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), 46980 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Autonomous University of Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Benito-Amat
- Institute for the Management and Innovation of Knowledge (INGENIO-CSIC-UPV), Polytechnic University of Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Gara V Molina-Mendoza
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Excellence Center Severo Ochoa-Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), 46980 Valencia, Spain
| | - Brenda W J H Penninx
- Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Public Health, Mental Health Program, Department of Psychiatry, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yolanda Sanz
- Microbiome, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Excellence Center Severo Ochoa-Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), 46980 Valencia, Spain
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37
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Ben-Azu B, del Re EC, VanderZwaag J, Carrier M, Keshavan M, Khakpour M, Tremblay MÈ. Emerging epigenetic dynamics in gut-microglia brain axis: experimental and clinical implications for accelerated brain aging in schizophrenia. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1139357. [PMID: 37256150 PMCID: PMC10225712 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1139357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain aging, which involves a progressive loss of neuronal functions, has been reported to be premature in probands affected by schizophrenia (SCZ). Evidence shows that SCZ and accelerated aging are linked to changes in epigenetic clocks. Recent cross-sectional magnetic resonance imaging analyses have uncovered reduced brain reserves and connectivity in patients with SCZ compared to typically aging individuals. These data may indicate early abnormalities of neuronal function following cyto-architectural alterations in SCZ. The current mechanistic knowledge on brain aging, epigenetic changes, and their neuropsychiatric disease association remains incomplete. With this review, we explore and summarize evidence that the dynamics of gut-resident bacteria can modulate molecular brain function and contribute to age-related neurodegenerative disorders. It is known that environmental factors such as mode of birth, dietary habits, stress, pollution, and infections can modulate the microbiota system to regulate intrinsic neuronal activity and brain reserves through the vagus nerve and enteric nervous system. Microbiota-derived molecules can trigger continuous activation of the microglial sensome, groups of receptors and proteins that permit microglia to remodel the brain neurochemistry based on complex environmental activities. This remodeling causes aberrant brain plasticity as early as fetal developmental stages, and after the onset of first-episode psychosis. In the central nervous system, microglia, the resident immune surveillance cells, are involved in neurogenesis, phagocytosis of synapses and neurological dysfunction. Here, we review recent emerging experimental and clinical evidence regarding the gut-brain microglia axis involvement in SCZ pathology and etiology, the hypothesis of brain reserve and accelerated aging induced by dietary habits, stress, pollution, infections, and other factors. We also include in our review the possibilities and consequences of gut dysbiosis activities on microglial function and dysfunction, together with the effects of antipsychotics on the gut microbiome: therapeutic and adverse effects, role of fecal microbiota transplant and psychobiotics on microglial sensomes, brain reserves and SCZ-derived accelerated aging. We end the review with suggestions that may be applicable to the clinical setting. For example, we propose that psychobiotics might contribute to antipsychotic-induced therapeutic benefits or adverse effects, as well as reduce the aging process through the gut-brain microglia axis. Overall, we hope that this review will help increase the understanding of SCZ pathogenesis as related to chronobiology and the gut microbiome, as well as reveal new concepts that will serve as novel treatment targets for SCZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benneth Ben-Azu
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
| | - Elisabetta C. del Re
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Brockton, MA, United States
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jared VanderZwaag
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Micaël Carrier
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Matcheri Keshavan
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Marie-Ève Tremblay
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Axe Neurosciences, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), Institute on Aging and Lifelong Health (IALH), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
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38
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Refisch A, Sen ZD, Klassert TE, Busch A, Besteher B, Danyeli LV, Helbing D, Schulze-Späte U, Stallmach A, Bauer M, Panagiotou G, Jacobsen ID, Slevogt H, Opel N, Walter M. Microbiome and immuno-metabolic dysregulation in patients with major depressive disorder with atypical clinical presentation. Neuropharmacology 2023; 235:109568. [PMID: 37182790 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Depression is highly prevalent (6% 1-year prevalence) and is the second leading cause of disability worldwide. Available treatment options for depression are far from optimal, with response rates only around 50%. This is most likely related to a heterogeneous clinical presentation of major depression disorder (MDD), suggesting different manifestations of underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Poorer treatment outcomes to first-line antidepressants were reported in MDD patients endorsing an "atypical" symptom profile that is characterized by preserved reactivity in mood, increased appetite, hypersomnia, a heavy sensation in the limbs, and interpersonal rejection sensitivity. In recent years, evidence has emerged that immunometabolic biological dysregulation is an important underlying pathophysiological mechanism in depression, which maps more consistently to atypical features. In the last few years human microbial residents have emerged as a key influencing variable associated with immunometabolic dysregulations in depression. The microbiome plays a critical role in the training and development of key components of the host's innate and adaptive immune systems, while the immune system orchestrates the maintenance of key features of the host-microbe symbiosis. Moreover, by being a metabolically active ecosystem commensal microbes may have a huge impact on signaling pathways, involved in underlying mechanisms leading to atypical depressive symptoms. In this review, we discuss the interplay between the microbiome and immunometabolic imbalance in the context of atypical depressive symptoms. Although research in this field is in its infancy, targeting biological determinants in more homogeneous clinical presentations of MDD may offer new avenues for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for treatment-resistant depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Refisch
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health (C-I-R-C), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany.
| | - Zümrüt Duygu Sen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health (C-I-R-C), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany; Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Tilman E Klassert
- Host Septomics Group, Centre for Innovation Competence (ZIK) Septomics, University Hospital Jena, 07745, Jena, Germany; Respiratory Infection Dynamics, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Inhoffenstr, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Anne Busch
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena, Germany
| | - Bianca Besteher
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health (C-I-R-C), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany
| | - Lena Vera Danyeli
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health (C-I-R-C), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany; Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Dario Helbing
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health (C-I-R-C), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany; Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute, 07745, Jena, Germany; Institute of Molecular Cell Biology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Ulrike Schulze-Späte
- Section of Geriodontics, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Periodontology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Andreas Stallmach
- Department of Internal Medicine IV (Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases), Jena University Hospital, Germany
| | - Michael Bauer
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena, Germany; Theoretical Microbial Ecology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Gianni Panagiotou
- Department of Microbiome Dynamics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Ilse D Jacobsen
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany, and Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Hortense Slevogt
- Host Septomics Group, Centre for Innovation Competence (ZIK) Septomics, University Hospital Jena, 07745, Jena, Germany; Respiratory Infection Dynamics, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Inhoffenstr, Braunschweig, Germany; Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nils Opel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health (C-I-R-C), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Site Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany
| | - Martin Walter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health (C-I-R-C), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany; Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Site Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
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39
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Hartman S, Belsky J, Pluess M. Prenatal programming of environmental sensitivity. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:161. [PMID: 37164986 PMCID: PMC10172185 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02461-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
According to several theories, people differ in their sensitivity to environmental influences with some more susceptible than others to both supportive and adverse contextual conditions. Such differences in environmental sensitivity have a genetic basis but are also shaped by environmental factors. Herein we narratively build on our previous work proposing that prenatal experiences contribute to the development of environmental sensitivity. This hypothesis of prenatal programming of postnatal plasticity has considerable empirical support. After presenting illustrative animal and human evidence consistent with this claim, we discuss a range of biological mechanisms likely involved in the pathway from prenatal stress exposure to postnatal environmental sensitivity. We also consider work suggesting that genetic differences, gender, as well as the timing, duration and intensity of prenatal exposures may moderate the effects of prenatal programming on postnatal environmental susceptibility or sensitivity. Before concluding, we highlight "unknowns in the prenatal programming of environmental sensitivity" and their practical implications. Ultimately, we conclude that prenatal stress does not necessarily predispose individuals to problematical development, but rather increases sensitivity to both adverse and supportive postnatal contexts. Thus, prenatal stress may actually foster positive development if paired with supportive and caring postnatal environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hartman
- Department of Human Eology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jay Belsky
- Department of Human Eology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Michael Pluess
- Department of Psychological Sciences, School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.
- Department of Biological and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
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40
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Sasso JM, Ammar RM, Tenchov R, Lemmel S, Kelber O, Grieswelle M, Zhou QA. Gut Microbiome-Brain Alliance: A Landscape View into Mental and Gastrointestinal Health and Disorders. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:1717-1763. [PMID: 37156006 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota includes a vast collection of microorganisms residing within the gastrointestinal tract. It is broadly recognized that the gut and brain are in constant bidirectional communication, of which gut microbiota and its metabolic production are a major component, and form the so-called gut microbiome-brain axis. Disturbances of microbiota homeostasis caused by imbalance in their functional composition and metabolic activities, known as dysbiosis, cause dysregulation of these pathways and trigger changes in the blood-brain barrier permeability, thereby causing pathological malfunctions, including neurological and functional gastrointestinal disorders. In turn, the brain can affect the structure and function of gut microbiota through the autonomic nervous system by regulating gut motility, intestinal transit and secretion, and gut permeability. Here, we examine data from the CAS Content Collection, the largest collection of published scientific information, and analyze the publication landscape of recent research. We review the advances in knowledge related to the human gut microbiome, its complexity and functionality, its communication with the central nervous system, and the effect of the gut microbiome-brain axis on mental and gut health. We discuss correlations between gut microbiota composition and various diseases, specifically gastrointestinal and mental disorders. We also explore gut microbiota metabolites with regard to their impact on the brain and gut function and associated diseases. Finally, we assess clinical applications of gut-microbiota-related substances and metabolites with their development pipelines. We hope this review can serve as a useful resource in understanding the current knowledge on this emerging field in an effort to further solving of the remaining challenges and fulfilling its potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet M Sasso
- CAS, a division of the American Chemical Society, 2540 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Ramy M Ammar
- Bayer Consumer Health, R&D Digestive Health, Darmstadt 64295, Germany
| | - Rumiana Tenchov
- CAS, a division of the American Chemical Society, 2540 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Steven Lemmel
- CAS, a division of the American Chemical Society, 2540 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Olaf Kelber
- Bayer Consumer Health, R&D Digestive Health, Darmstadt 64295, Germany
| | - Malte Grieswelle
- Bayer Consumer Health, R&D Digestive Health, Darmstadt 64295, Germany
| | - Qiongqiong Angela Zhou
- CAS, a division of the American Chemical Society, 2540 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
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41
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Fatima S, Altwaijry H, Abulmeaty MMA, Abudawood M, Siddiqi NJ, Alrashoudi RH, Alsobaie S. Combined Supplementation of Clostridium butyricum and Bifidobacterium infantis Diminishes Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress-Induced Intestinal Alterations via Activation of Nrf-2 Signaling Pathway in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098264. [PMID: 37175970 PMCID: PMC10178881 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to long-term chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) can cause redox imbalance and inflammation, which may affect the integrity of the gut barrier. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of a probiotics bacterium mixture, including Clostridium butyricum (C. butyricum) and Bifidobacterium infantis (B. infantis), on the intestinal homeostasis in rats exposed to multiple low-intensity stressors for 28 days. The mechanism of CUMS-induced altered intestinal homeostasis was evaluated by focusing on the nuclear factor-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf-2) pathway. In contrast to the CUMS group, probiotic mixture supplementation significantly (p < 0.01) reversed the stress-induced elevated corticosterone level, protein and lipid oxidation, and increased enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant levels, as well as upregulated Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway. Probiotics supplementation further significantly (p < 0.01) decreased the CUMS-induced inflammation, altered T-lymphocyte levels, and suppressed the protein expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in rat intestines. Improvement in histological changes and intestinal barrier integrity further validate the beneficial effects of probiotic mixtures on CUMS-induced altered intestinal morphology. In conclusion, our results suggest that the combination of C. butyricum and B. infantis significantly attenuated CUMS-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and T-lymphocyte modulation by upregulating Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling and inhibiting NF-κB expression in rat intestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabiha Fatima
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11433, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haifa Altwaijry
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11433, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud M A Abulmeaty
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11362, Saudi Arabia
| | - Manal Abudawood
- Chair of Medical and Molecular Genetics Research, Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11433, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nikhat J Siddiqi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Hamoud Alrashoudi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11433, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Alsobaie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11433, Saudi Arabia
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42
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Hua H, Huang L, Yang B, Jiang S, Zhang Y, Liu J, Yan C, Xu J. The mediating role of gut microbiota in the associations of prenatal maternal combined exposure to lead and stress with neurodevelopmental deficits in young rats. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 255:114798. [PMID: 36948003 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal single and combined exposure to lead (Pb) and stress (Ps) impairs neurodevelopment. Prenatal single exposure to Pb or Ps affects the composition of intestinal microbiota, and bidirectional communication between gut microbiota and central nervous system has been well recognized. However, whether gut microbiota mediated the effects of prenatal Pb+Ps co-exposure on neurodevelopmental deficits remains unclear. This study established rat models with prenatal single and combined exposure to Ps and Pb. We investigated the effects of such prenatal single and combined exposure on hippocampal structures using morphological analyses, on learning/memory using the Morris-water-maze test, and on fecal microbiota using 16S rRNA sequencing. The mediating roles of gut microbiota were analyzed using the bootstrap method. The study found both single and combined exposure affected hippocampal ultra-structures and spatial learning/memory, and the most significant impairments were observed in the Pb+Ps group. Prenatal Pb+Ps co-exposure decreased fecal microbial alpha/beta-diversity. Significantly lower levels of B/F-ratio, class-Bacteroidia, order-Bacteroidales, and family-S24-7, and significantly higher levels of class-Bacilli, order-Lactobacillales, family-Lactobacillaceae, and genus-Lactobacillus were observed in the co-exposure group, compared with the controls. Increased relative abundances of genus-Helicobacter mediated the detrimental effect of prenatal Ps+Pb co-exposure on learning/memory [β (95%CI) for the total and indirect effects: - 10.70 (-19.19, -2.21) and - 4.65(-11.07, -1.85)], accounting for 43.47% of the total effect. As a result, increased relative abundances of genus-Lactobacillus alleviated the adverse effects of the co-exposure on learning/memory, and the alleviation effect accounted for 44.55% of the direct effect [β (95%CI) for the direct and indirect effects: - 0.28(-0.48, -0.08) and 0.13(0.01, 0.41)]. This study suggested that prenatal combined exposure to Pb and Ps induced more impairments in offspring gut microbiota and neurodevelopment than single exposure, and alterations in fecal microbiome may mediate the developmental neurotoxicity induced by such prenatal co-exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Hua
- The International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Lihua Huang
- MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Department of Child and Adolescent Healthcare, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 20092, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Neurosurgery Department, Shanghai Children's Medical Center Affiliated to the Medical School of Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Shiwei Jiang
- MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Department of Child and Adolescent Healthcare, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 20092, China
| | - Yijing Zhang
- MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Department of Child and Adolescent Healthcare, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 20092, China
| | - Junxia Liu
- MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Department of Child and Adolescent Healthcare, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 20092, China
| | - Chonghuai Yan
- MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Department of Child and Adolescent Healthcare, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 20092, China
| | - Jian Xu
- The International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China; MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Department of Child and Adolescent Healthcare, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 20092, China.
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43
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Yeramilli V, Cheddadi R, Shah J, Brawner K, Martin C. A Review of the Impact of Maternal Prenatal Stress on Offspring Microbiota and Metabolites. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13040535. [PMID: 37110193 PMCID: PMC10142778 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13040535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal prenatal stress exposure affects the development of offspring. We searched for articles in the PubMed database and reviewed the evidence for how prenatal stress alters the composition of the microbiome, the production of microbial-derived metabolites, and regulates microbiome-induced behavioral changes in the offspring. The gut-brain signaling axis has gained considerable attention in recent years and provides insights into the microbial dysfunction in several metabolic disorders. Here, we reviewed evidence from human studies and animal models to discuss how maternal stress can modulate the offspring microbiome. We will discuss how probiotic supplementation has a profound effect on the stress response, the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and how psychobiotics are emerging as novel therapeutic targets. Finally, we highlight the potential molecular mechanisms by which the effects of stress are transmitted to the offspring and discuss how the mitigation of early-life stress as a risk factor can improve the birth outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkata Yeramilli
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Riadh Cheddadi
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Juhi Shah
- Burnett School of Medicine, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA
| | - Kyle Brawner
- Department of Biology, Lipscomb University, Nashville, TN 37204, USA
| | - Colin Martin
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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44
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Dutton CL, Maisha FM, Quinn EB, Morales KL, Moore JM, Mulligan CJ. Maternal Psychosocial Stress Is Associated with Reduced Diversity in the Early Infant Gut Microbiome. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11040975. [PMID: 37110398 PMCID: PMC10142543 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11040975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The developing infant gut microbiome is highly sensitive to environmental exposures, enabling its evolution into an organ that supports the immune system, confers protection from infection, and facilitates optimal gut and central nervous system function. In this study, we focus on the impact of maternal psychosocial stress on the infant gut microbiome. Forty-seven mother-infant dyads were recruited at the HEAL Africa Hospital in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo. Extensive medical, demographic, and psychosocial stress data were collected at birth, and infant stool samples were collected at six weeks, three months, and six months. A composite maternal psychosocial stress score was created, based on eight questionnaires to capture a diverse range of stress exposures. Full-length 16S rRNA gene sequences were generated. Infants of mothers with high composite stress scores showed lower levels of gut microbiome beta diversity at six weeks and three months, as well as higher levels of alpha diversity at six months compared to infants of low stress mothers. Longitudinal analyses showed that infants of high stress mothers had lower levels of health-promoting Lactobacillus gasseri and Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum at six weeks compared to infants of low stress mothers, but the differences largely disappeared by three to six months. Previous research has shown that L. gasseri can be used as a probiotic to reduce inflammation, stress, and fatigue, as well as to improve mental state, while B. pseudocatenulatum is important in modulating the gut-brain axis in early development and in preventing mood disorders. Our finding of reduced levels of these health-promoting bacteria in infants of high stress mothers suggests that the infant gut microbiome may help mediate the effect of maternal stress on infant health and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L Dutton
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, 1115 Turlington Hall, P.O. Box 117305, Gainesville, FL 32611-7305, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, 2033 Mowry Rd, P.O. Box 103610, Gainesville, FL 32610-3610, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, 220 Bartram Hall, P.O. Box 118525, Gainesville, FL 32611-8525, USA
| | - Felicien Masanga Maisha
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, 1115 Turlington Hall, P.O. Box 117305, Gainesville, FL 32611-7305, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, 2033 Mowry Rd, P.O. Box 103610, Gainesville, FL 32610-3610, USA
- HEAL Africa Hospital, Rue Lyn Lusi No. 111, Goma BP 319, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Edward B Quinn
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, 1115 Turlington Hall, P.O. Box 117305, Gainesville, FL 32611-7305, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, 2033 Mowry Rd, P.O. Box 103610, Gainesville, FL 32610-3610, USA
| | - Katherine Liceth Morales
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, 1115 Turlington Hall, P.O. Box 117305, Gainesville, FL 32611-7305, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, 2033 Mowry Rd, P.O. Box 103610, Gainesville, FL 32610-3610, USA
| | - Julie M Moore
- Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Room V3-111B, P.O. Box 110880, Gainesville, FL 32611-4111, USA
| | - Connie J Mulligan
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, 1115 Turlington Hall, P.O. Box 117305, Gainesville, FL 32611-7305, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, 2033 Mowry Rd, P.O. Box 103610, Gainesville, FL 32610-3610, USA
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45
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Sharvin BL, Aburto MR, Cryan JF. Decoding the neurocircuitry of gut feelings: Region-specific microbiome-mediated brain alterations. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 179:106033. [PMID: 36758820 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Research in the last decade has unveiled a crucial role for the trillions of microorganisms that reside in the gut in influencing host neurodevelopment across the lifespan via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Studies have linked alterations in the composition, complexity, and diversity of the gut microbiota to changes in behaviour including abnormal social interactions, cognitive deficits, and anxiety- and depressive-like phenotypes. Moreover, the microbiota has been linked with neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders. Interestingly, there appears to be specific brain regions governing the neurocircuitry driving higher cognitive function that are susceptible to influence from manipulations to the host microbiome. This review will aim to elucidate the region-specific effects mediated by the gut microbiota, with a focus on translational animal models and some existing human neuroimaging data. Compelling preclinical evidence suggests disruption to normal microbiota-gut-brain signalling can have detrimental effects on the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and striatum. Furthermore, human neuroimaging studies have unveiled a role for the microbiota in mediating functional connectivity and structure of specific brain regions that can be traced back to neurocognition and behavioural output. Understanding these microbiota-mediated changes will aid in identifying unique therapeutic targets for treating neurological disorders associated with these regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan L Sharvin
- APC Microbiome, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Maria Rodriguez Aburto
- APC Microbiome, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - John F Cryan
- APC Microbiome, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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46
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Galley JD, Mashburn-Warren L, Blalock LC, Lauber CL, Carroll JE, Ross KM, Hobel C, Coussons-Read M, Dunkel Schetter C, Gur TL. Maternal anxiety, depression and stress affects offspring gut microbiome diversity and bifidobacterial abundances. Brain Behav Immun 2023; 107:253-264. [PMID: 36240906 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncovering mechanisms underlying fetal programming during pregnancy is of critical importance. Atypical neurodevelopment during the pre- and immediate postnatal period has been associated with long-term adverse health outcomes, including mood disorders and aberrant cognitive ability in offspring. Maternal factors that have been implicated in anomalous offspring development include maternal inflammation and tress, anxiety, and depression. One potential mechanism through which these factors perturb normal offspring postnatal development is through microbiome disruption. The mother is a primary source of early postnatal microbiome seeding for the offspring, and the transference of a healthy microbiome is key in normal neurodevelopment. Since psychological stress, mood disorders, and inflammation have all been implicated in altering maternal microbiome community structure, passing on aberrant microbial communities to the offspring that may then affect developmental outcomes. Therefore, we examined how maternal stress, anxiety and depression assessed with standardized instruments, and maternal inflammatory cytokine levels in the pre- and postnatal period are associated with the offspring microbiome within the first 13 months of life, utilizing full length 16S sequencing on infant stool samples, that allowed for species-level resolution. Results revealed that infants of mothers who reported higher anxiety and perceived stress had reduced alpha diversity. Additionally, the relative taxonomic quantitative abundances of Bifidobacterium dentium and other species that have been associated with either modulation of the gut-brain axis, or other beneficial health outcomes, were reduced in the offspring of mothers with higher anxiety, perceived stress, and depression. We also found associations between bifidobacteria and prenatal maternal pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10. In summary, specific microbial taxa involved in maintaining proper brain and immune function are lower in offspring born to mothers with anxiety, depression, or stress, providing strong evidence for a mechanism by which maternal factors may affect offspring health through microbiota dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D Galley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Lexie C Blalock
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Christian L Lauber
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Judith E Carroll
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kharah M Ross
- Center for Social Sciences, Athabasca University, Athabasca, Alberta, Canada
| | - Calvin Hobel
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mary Coussons-Read
- Department of Psychology, The University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, CO, USA
| | | | - Tamar L Gur
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Edwards CA, Van Loo-Bouwman CA, Van Diepen JA, Schoemaker MH, Ozanne SE, Venema K, Stanton C, Marinello V, Rueda R, Flourakis M, Gil A, Van der Beek EM. A systematic review of breast milk microbiota composition and the evidence for transfer to and colonisation of the infant gut. Benef Microbes 2022; 13:365-382. [PMID: 36377578 DOI: 10.3920/bm2021.0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
The intestinal microbiota plays a major role in infant health and development. However, the role of the breastmilk microbiota in infant gut colonisation remains unclear. A systematic review was performed to evaluate the composition of the breastmilk microbiota and evidence for transfer to/colonisation of the infant gut. Searches were performed using PUBMED, OVID, LILACS and PROQUEST from inception until 18th March 2020 with a PUBMED update to December 2021. 88 full texts were evaluated before final critique based on study power, sample contamination avoidance, storage, purification process, DNA extraction/analysis, and consideration of maternal health and other potential confounders. Risk of skin contamination was reduced mainly by breast cleaning and rejecting the first milk drops. Sample storage, DNA extraction and bioinformatics varied. Several studies stored samples under conditions that may selectively impact bacterial DNA preservation, others used preculture reducing reliability. Only 15 studies, with acceptable sample size, handling, extraction, and bacterial analysis, considered transfer of bacteria to the infant. Three reported bacterial transfer from infant to breastmilk. Despite consistent evidence for the breastmilk microbiota, and recent studies using improved methods to investigate factors affecting its composition, few studies adequately considered transfer to the infant gut providing very little evidence for effective impact on gut colonisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Edwards
- Human Nutrition, School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, 84 Castle St, Glasgow G4 0SF, United Kingdom
| | - C A Van Loo-Bouwman
- Yili Innovation Center Europe, Bronland 12 E-1, 6708 WH Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - J A Van Diepen
- Medical and Scientific Affairs, Reckitt|Mead Johnson Nutrition Institute, Middenkampweg 2, 6545 CJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - M H Schoemaker
- Medical and Scientific Affairs, Reckitt|Mead Johnson Nutrition Institute, Middenkampweg 2, 6545 CJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - S E Ozanne
- Metabolic Research Laboratories and MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge, P.O. Box 289, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - K Venema
- Department of Human Biology, Centre for Healthy Eating & Food Innovation, Maastricht University - Campus Venlo, P.O. Box 8, 5900 AA Venlo, the Netherlands
| | - C Stanton
- Teagasc Moorepark Food Research Centre, and APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
| | - V Marinello
- Human Nutrition, School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, 84 Castle St, Glasgow G4 0SF, United Kingdom
| | - R Rueda
- R&D Department, Abbott Nutrition, Cam. de Purchil, 68, 18004 Granada, Spain
| | - M Flourakis
- ILSI Europe a.i.s.b.l., E. Mounierlaan 83, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; correspondence has been taken over by C.-Y. Chang of ILSI Europe
| | - A Gil
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology 'José Mataix,' Biomedical Research Centre, University of Granada, and Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs Granada, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, 18100, Armilla, Grenada, Spain
- CIBEROBN (Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - E M Van der Beek
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Postbus 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, the Netherlands
- Danone Nutricia Research, Uppsalalaan 12, 3584 CT Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Microbial effects of prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics after Caesarean section or exposure to antibiotics in the first week of life: A systematic review. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277405. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims
Disruption of the developing microbiota by Caesarean birth or early exposure to antibiotics may impact long-term health outcomes, which can potentially be prevented by nutritional supplements. This systematic review aimed to summarise the evidence regarding the effects of prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics on the intestinal microbiota composition of term infants born by Caesarean section or exposed to antibiotics in the first week of life.
Methods
A systematic search was performed from inception to August 2022 in Medline and Embase. Two researchers independently performed title and abstract screening (n = 12,230), full-text screening (n = 46) and critical appraisal. We included randomised controlled trials which included term-born infants who were born following Caesarean section or who were exposed to postpartum antibiotics in the first week of life, pre-, pro- or synbiotics were administered <6 weeks after birth and outcome(s) consisted of microbiota analyses.
Results
Twelve randomised controlled trials investigating Caesarean born infants and one randomised controlled trial including infants exposed to antibiotics were included. Group sizes varied from 11 to 230 with 1193 infants in total. Probiotic (n = 7) or synbiotic (n = 3) supplementation significantly increased the abundance of the supplemented bacterial species (of the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus genus), and there was a decrease in Enterobacteriaceae, especially <4 weeks of age. At phylum level, Actinobacteria (two studies), Proteobacteria (one study) and Firmicutes (one study) increased after probiotic supplementation. In three studies on prebiotics, two studies reported a significant increase in Bifidobacteria and one study found a significant increase in Enterobacteriaceae.
Discussion
Prebiotic, probiotic and synbiotic supplements seem to restore dysbiosis after Caesarean section towards a microbial signature of vaginally born infants by increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria. However, given the variety in study products and study procedures, it is yet too early to advocate specific products in clinical settings.
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Montazeri R, Hasanpour S, Mirghafourvand M, Gharehbaghi MM, Tehrani MMG, Rezaei SM. The effect of behavioral therapy based counseling with anxious mothers on their infants' colic: a randomized controlled clinical trial. BMC Pediatr 2022; 22:645. [PMID: 36348313 PMCID: PMC9641922 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-022-03683-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Given the possible effect of maternal anxiety on the severity of colic pain in infants, this study aimed to investigate the effects of behavioral therapy counseling on infantile colic (primary outcome), maternal anxiety, and mother-infant attachment (secondary outcomes) in anxious mothers with colicky infants. Method This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 46 anxious mothers of 2–6-weeks-old exclusively breastfed colicky infants who had a score of 112 and above according to the Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale (PSAS), reffered to the pediatric clinics of Al-Zahra, Taleghani and Children Hospitals of Tabriz, Iran. The participants were randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 23) and control (n = 23) groups using randomized block design. Mothers in the intervention group attended 8 systematic desensitization counseling sessions (2–3 sessions per week). Those in the control group received routine care. The researcher completed the Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale (PSAS), Mother-Infant Attachment Questionnaire (MIAQ), and Infant Colic Scale (ICS) by interviewing the participants before and two weeks after the intervention. Results There was no significant difference between the intervention and control groups in the socio-demographic profile of participants. After the intervention, the mean postpartum anxiety score of women in the intervention group was significantly lower than that of those in the control group (Mean Difference (MD) = 22.5, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 2.3 to 42.7; p = 0.029). The mean infant colic score of the infants of mothers in the intervention group was insignificantly lower than that of those in the control group (MD = -2.9, 95% CI = -8.3 to 2.4; p = 0.271). In addition, no significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of their mean mother-infant attachment scores (MD = -0.04, 95% CI = -3.1 to 0.3; p = 0.976). Conclusion Behavioral therapy counseling effectively reduced postpartum anxiety in women with colicky infants; however, this reduction did not lead to a significant decrease in the infants’ colic pain. Therefore, health care providers are recommended to use this counseling method in combination with other effective counseling approaches to promote mental health of these mothers. Trial Registration IRCT Registration Number: IRCT20111219008459N14, registered on 08/10/2020. https://irct.ir/user/trial/45949/view
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Zhang X, Mao F, Li Y, Wang J, Wu L, Sun J, Cao F. Effects of a maternal mindfulness intervention targeting prenatal psychological distress on infants' meconium microbiota: A randomized controlled trial. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 145:105913. [PMID: 36081227 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal psychological distress could affect gut microbiota of the infant; however, previous studies to date have been observational. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) during pregnancy on the meconium microbiota of infants by alleviating maternal psychological distress. DESIGN Randomized controlled trial. METHOD Pregnant women with symptoms of depression or anxiety were randomized to either the intervention group (n = 80), comprising usual perinatal care and six digitally guided self-help MBI sessions, or the control group (n = 80) who underwent usual perinatal care. Meconium was collected within 48 h of birth to evaluate the infant's gut microbiota. The Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test, analysis of similarities, and DESeq2 were performed to explore the effects of the MBI on alpha and beta diversity indices and specific genera. RESULTS There were no significant differences between groups regarding the alpha diversity indices, including Chao1 and Simpson (p = 0.83 and p = 0.58). However, there was a significant between-group difference in the beta diversity index (R=0.02, p = 0.03). Bifidobacterium (log2 fold change=-1.90, FDR=0.002) and Blautia (log2 fold change=-1.45, FDR=0.01) were abundant in the intervention group, whereas Staphylococcus (log2 fold change=1.44, FDR=0.01) was abundant in the control group. CONCLUSIONS MBI aimed at alleviating maternal psychological distress can positively alter the meconium microbiota of infants. However, the mechanisms underlying the effects of maternal mindfulness during pregnancy on infant meconium microbiota require further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhang
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Fangxiang Mao
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yang Li
- School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, USA
| | - Juan Wang
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Liuliu Wu
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jiwei Sun
- School of Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Fenglin Cao
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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