Hypocholesterolaemic effect of dietary inclusion of two putative probiotic bile salt hydrolase-producing Lactobacillus plantarum strains in Sprague-Dawley rats

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum P470 Isolated from Fermented Chinese Chives Has the Potential to Improve In Vitro the Intestinal Microbiota and Biological Activity in Feces of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) Patients

Traditional fermented foods are known to offer cardiovascular health benefits. However, the potential of fermented Chinese chives (FCC) in reducing coronary heart disease (CHD) remains unclear. This study employed anaerobic fermentation to investigate Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) P470 from FCC. The results indicated that L. plantarum P470 enhanced hydroxyl radical scavenging and exhibited anti-inflammatory effects on RAW264.7 macrophages in the fecal fermentation supernatant of CHD patients. These effects were attributed to the modulation of gut microbiota and metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Specifically, L. plantarum P470 increased the abundance of Bacteroides and Lactobacillus while decreasing Escherichia-Shigella, Enterobacter, Veillonella, Eggerthella, and Helicobacter in CHD patient fecal samples. Furthermore, L. plantarum P470 regulated the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids and linoleic acid metabolism. These findings suggest that L. plantarum P470 from FCC can improve the fecal physiological status in patients with CHD by modulating intestinal microbiota, promoting SCFA production, and regulating lipid metabolism.

Gut Microbiota and Metabolic Syndrome: Relationships and Opportunities for New Therapeutic Strategies

Since its discovery, numerous studies have shown the role of the microbiota in well-being and disease. The gut microbiota represents an essential factor that plays a multidirectional role that affects not just the gut but also other parts of the body, including the brain, endocrine system, humoral system, immune system, and metabolic pathways, as well as host-microbiome interactions. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing literature using the desktop research methodology, this review elucidates the mechanisms by which gut microbiota dysbiosis contributes to metabolic dysfunction, including obesity, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, atherosclerosis, hyperuricemia, and hyperglycaemia. Furthermore, it examines the bidirectional communication pathways between gut microbiota and host metabolism, highlighting the role of microbial-derived metabolites, immune modulation, and gut barrier integrity in shaping metabolic homeostasis. Importantly, the review identifies promising therapeutic strategies targeting the gut microbiota as potential interventions for metabolic syndrome, including probiotics, prebiotics, symbiotics, dietary modifications, and faecal microbiota transplantation. By delineating the bidirectional interactions between gut microbiota and metabolic syndrome, the review not only advances our understanding of disease pathophysiology but also underscores the potential for innovative microbiota-based interventions to mitigate the global burden of metabolic syndrome and its associated complications.

Therapeutic potential of lipid-lowering probiotics on the atherosclerosis development

Hypercholesterolemia is a critical risk factor for atherosclerosis, mostly attributed to lifestyle behavior such as diet. Recent advances have emphasized the critical effects of gastrointestinal bacteria in the pathology of hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis, suggesting that the gastrointestinal microbiome can therefore provide efficient therapeutic targets for preventing and treating atherosclerosis. Thus, interventions, such as probiotic therapy, aimed at altering the bacterial composition introduce a promising therapeutic procedure. In the current review, we will provide an overview of anti-atherogenic probiotics contributing to lipid-lowering, inhibiting atherosclerotic inflammation, and suppressing bacterial atherogenic metabolites.

The antimicrobial peptide Abaecin alleviates colitis in mice by regulating inflammatory signaling pathways and intestinal microbial composition

Abaecin is a natural antimicrobial peptide (AMP) rich in proline from bees. It is an important part of the innate humoral immunity of bees and has broad-spectrum antibacterial ability. This study aimed to determine the effect of Abaecin on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) -induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in mice and to explore its related mechanisms. Twenty-four mice with similar body weight were randomly divided into 4 groups. 2.5% DSS was added to drinking water to induce colitis in mice. Abaecin and PBS were administered rectally on the third, fifth, and seventh days of the experimental period. The results showed that Abaecin significantly alleviated histological damage and intestinal mucosal barrier damage caused by colitis in mice, reduced the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and the phosphorylation of NF-κB / MAPK inflammatory signaling pathway proteins, and improved the composition of intestinal microorganisms. These findings suggest that Abaecin may have potential prospects for the treatment of UC.

In Vitro Development of Enteric-Coated Tablets of the Probiotic Lactobacillus fermentum LF-G89: A Possible Approach to Intestinal Colonization

BACKGROUND

Probiotics must be able to withstand the demanding environment of the gastrointestinal system to adhere to the intestinal epithelium, promoting health benefits. The use of probiotics can prevent or attenuate the effects of dysbiosis that have a deleterious effect on health, promoting anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant effects.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to prepare tablets containing Lactobacillus fermentum LF-G89 coated with 20% Acryl-Eze II® or Opadry® enteric polymers.

METHODS

Tablet dissolution was evaluated under acidic and basic pH conditions, and aliquots of the dissolution medium were plated to count the Colony-forming Units (CFU). The free probiotic's tolerance to pH levels of 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0, as well as to pepsin, pancreatin, and bile salts, was assessed.

RESULTS

The probiotic was released from tablets coated after they withstood the pH 1.2 acid stage for 45 minutes. The release was higher with the Acry-Eze II® polymer in the basic stage. The amount of CFU of free probiotics at pH 1.0 to 4.0 as well as pepsin reduced over time, indicating cell death. Conversely, the CFU over time with pancreatin and bile salts increased, demonstrating the resistance of L. fermentum to these conditions due to hydrolases.

CONCLUSION

Both coating polymers were able to withstand the acid step, likely ensuring the release of the probiotic in the small intestine, promoting colonization. Coating with enteric material is a simple and effective process to increase the survival of probiotics, offering a promising alternative to mitigate the negative effects of the dysbiosis process.

Screening of an efficient cholesterol-lowering strain of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 54-1 and investigation of its degradation molecular mechanism

In this study, an efficient cholesterol-lowering strain of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 54-1 was screened and its degradation molecular mechanism was investigated. Furthermore, a novel practical MRS medium for screening cholesterol-lowering lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was developed based on ultrasound treatment. L. plantarum 54-1 was found to have the highest ability to eliminate cholesterol (340.69 ± 5.87 µg/mL). According to SEM and the count of viable LAB results, the morphology of LAB in the cholesterol-containing medium developed in this experiment was close to the normal (full and smooth), and it can grow normally. Metabolomics revealed that L. plantarum 54-1 initially converted a portion of cholesterol to 7α-hydroxy-cholesterol and then to the key metabolite taurine, via the phosphotransferase system. These metabolites were further transformed into L-alanine, L-lysine, N6-Acetyl-L-lysine, (R)-b-aminoisobutyric acid, and 2-oxoarginine, through glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, citrate cycle, D-arginine and D-ornithine metabolism, lysine degradation, and pyruvate metabolism pathways. Prokaryotic reference transcriptomics found that this may be mainly regulated by the bsh, phnE, ptsP, B0667_RS04545, and B0667_RSRS12300 genes, which was further validated by qPCR. Furthermore, molecular docking results demonstrated that 8 differential metabolites might bind to another portion of cholesterol via PI-PI conjugation and hydrophobic interactions and lower cholesterol via co-sedimentation. This study has strategic implications for developing probiotic powder food that lowers cholesterol.

Bacillus coagulans T4 and Lactobacillus paracasei TD3 Ameliorate Skeletal Muscle Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in High-Fat Diet-Fed C57BL/6J Mice

Background

This study aims to investigate the effects of Bacillus coagulans T4 and Lactobacillus paracasei TD3 probiotics on skeletal muscle inflammation and oxidative stress in C57BL/6J mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD).

Methods

Probiotics B. coagulans T4, and L. paracasei TD3 were administered to male C57BL/6J mice fed with HFD. The gene expression of macrophage infiltration markers, inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress indicators in the muscle tissue was investigated.

Results

Treatment with B. coagulans T4 and L. paracasei TD3 reduced macrophage infiltration, accompanied by a decrease in the expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and an increase in the expression of interleukin (IL)-10. On the other hand, L. paracasei TD3 decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) while B. coagulans T4 decreased carbonyl and increased catalase activity.

Conclusions

Treatment with probiotics B. coagulans T4 and L. paracasei TD3 partially ameliorated obesity-induced skeletal muscle inflammation in HFD-fed mice.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum PGB02 Improved Serum Cholesterol Profile by Tweaking Genes Involved in Cholesterol Homeostasis in Male Swiss Albino Mice

The effect of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum PGB02 isolated from buttermilk on serum cholesterol profile of normal and hypercholesterolemic mice was evaluated. Further changes in the expression of mice genes were determined. The hypercholesterolemia was induced in experimental mice by feeding high cholesterol and fat diet. Serum cholesterol parameters, physical parameters, cholic acid excretion, and cholesterol metabolism related gene expression analysis was carried out. L. plantarum PGB02 efficiently reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL-cholesterol and improved HDL-cholesterol in hypercholesterolaemic mice. Body weight was reduced and fecal cholic acid increased in probiotic treatment groups. Gene expression analysis revealed that L. plantarum PGB02 up-regulated the expression of LDL receptors, CYP7A1, ABCA1, ABCG5, ABCG8, and down-regulated the expression of FXR and NPC1L1 genes. Summarizing the mechanism, L. plantarum PGB02 improved hypercholesterolemia by increasing bile acid synthesis and excretion, reducing exogeneous cholesterol absorption from the intestine, and increased LDL clearance through upregulation of LDL-receptors. The present study has given insight into the mechanism of serum cholesterol reduction by bile salt hydrolase positive L. plantarum PGB02 in mice. L. plantarum PGB02 reduced the serum cholesterol level through increased bile acid synthesis and deconjugation and reduced absorption of cholesterol in the intestine. Isolate PGB02 shown cholesterol removal potential as good as statin.

Updates on the Role of Probiotics against Different Health Issues: Focus on Lactobacillus

This review article is built on the beneficial effects of Lactobacillus against different diseases, and a special focus has been made on its effects against neurological disorders, such as depression, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's disease. Probiotics are live microbes, which are found in fermented foods, beverages, and cultured milk and, when administered in an adequate dose, confer health benefits to the host. They are known as "health-friendly bacteria", normally residing in the human gut and involved in maintaining homeostatic conditions. Imbalance in gut microbiota results in the pathophysiology of several diseases entailing the GIT tract, skin, immune system, inflammation, and gut-brain axis. Recently, the use of probiotics has gained tremendous interest, because of their profound effects on the management of these disease conditions. Recent findings suggest that probiotics enrichment in different human and mouse disease models showed promising beneficial effects and results in the amelioration of disease symptoms. Thus, this review focuses on the current probiotics-based products, different disease models, variable markers measured during trials, and evidence obtained from past studies on the use of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of different diseases, covering the skin to the central nervous system diseases.

Nutritional and Therapeutic Properties of Fermented Camel Milk Fortified with Red Chenopodium quinoa Flour on Hypercholesterolemia Rats

Quinoa is a nutrient-dense food that lowers chronic disease risk. This study evaluated the physicochemical and sensory qualities of fermented camel milk with 1, 2, 3, and 4% quinoa. The results showed that improvement in camel's milk increased the total solids, protein, ash, fiber, phenolic content, and antioxidant activity more effectively. Fermented camel milk with 3% of quinoa flour exhibited the highest sensory characteristics compared to other treatments. Fermented camel milk enriched with 3% red quinoa flour was studied in obese rats. Forty male Wistar rats were separated into five groups: the first group served as a normal control, while groups 2-4 were fed a high-fat, high-cholesterol (HF)-diet and given 2 mL/day of fermented milk and quinoa aqueous extract. Blood glucose, malondialdehyde (MDA), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol, triglyceride, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatinine, and urea levels decreased dramatically in comparison to the positive control group, while high-density lipoprotein (HDL), albumin, and total protein concentrations increased significantly. Fortified fermented camel milk decreased the number of giant adipocytes while increasing the number of tiny adipocytes in the body. The results showed that the liver and renal functions of hypercholesterolemic rats were enhanced by consuming fermented milk and quinoa. These results demonstrated the ability of quinoa and camel milk to protect rats from oxidative stress and hyperlipidemia. Further studies are needed to clarify the mechanisms behind the metabolic effects of fermented camel milk and quinoa.

Levilactobacillus brevis from carnivores can ameliorate hypercholesterolemia: in vitro and in vivo mechanistic evidence

AIMS

To explore the probiotic and hypocholesterolemic potential of two Levilactobacillus brevis strains of carnivore origin along with selected underlying mechanisms.

METHODS AND RESULTS

L. brevis MT950194 and L. brevis MW365351 were analyzed in vitro for oro-gastro-intestinal stress tolerance, cholesterol reduction, cholesterol adsorption (through scanning electron microscopy) and bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity. Strains could survive (> 80%) in oro-gastro-intestinal conditions, reduce high amount of cholesterol (35% and 54%) from media containing bile salts (0.3%) as compared with Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC4356 and presented least pathogenicity towards mammalian cells. Exopolysaccharide production, cell surface cholesterol adherence and BSH activity were witnessed as possible cholesterol lowering mechanisms. In in vivo experiment, the treatments of hypercholesterolemic rats with L. brevis MT950194, L. brevis MW365351 and their mixture led to significant (p < 0.05) reduction in serum and hepatic cholesterol, low density lipids, cholesterol ratio, liver steatosis, and size of adipocytes. It further ameliorated diet induced changes in hepatic enzymes.

CONCLUSIONS

L. brevis MT950194 and L. brevis MW365351 from carnivores have probiotic pharmacological potential and can reduce serum cholesterol through surface adherence and BSH production.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY

These strains may be utilized in treating hypercholesterolemia and production of low fat functional foods.

Revealing Probiotic Potential of Enterococcus Strains Isolated From Traditionally Fermented Chhurpi and Healthy Human Gut

In this study, the two lactic acid bacterial strains Enterococcus durans and Enterococcus lactis previously isolated from soft chhurpi, a traditionally fermented milk product prepared by the indigenous community of Sikkim Himalayas and healthy human gut were used. In this study, we attempted to investigate the probiotic attributes, safety, and health beneficial role, and hypercholesterolemia of Enterococcus durans and Enterococcus lactis. Both probiotic potential strains showed good hypocholesterolemic activity in vitro along with tolerance to acid pH (2 and 2.5), tolerance to three bile salts, oxbile, cholic acid, and taurocholic acid (0.5 and 1%), presence of BSH enzyme and its activity, and cell surface adherence. On assessing for safety, both LAB strains were sensitive to antibiotics and exhibited no hemolytic activity. The probiotic strains were tested in vivo in the Sprague–Dawley rats which were divided into five experimental groups: Normal Control (ND), probiotic strain Enterococcus durans HS03 (BSH-negative) and high-cholesterol diet (HCD1), probiotic strain Enterococcus lactis YY1 (BSH-positive) and high-cholesterol diet (HCD2), and a combination of both strains and high-cholesterol diet (HCD3) and Negative Control (HCD). The probiotic-treated groups HCD1, HCD2, and HCD3 showed a decrease in serum cholesterol levels up to 22.55, 6.67, and 31.06%; the TG and VLDL concentrations were 25.39, 26.3, and 33.21%; reduction in LDL-cholesterol was 33.66, 28.50, and 35.87%; and increase of HDL was 38.32, 47.9, and 41.92%. Similarly, the effects of total cholesterol and TG in the liver, kidney and liver histopathology, liver and body lipid index, and oxidative stress in rat liver were also studied. The fecal lactobacilli were more in the samples of the probiotic-treated groups and their fecal coliform and E. coli counts decreased relatively as compared to the control groups in 0, 7, 14, and 21 days. This is the first report on the probiotic potential of Enterococcus durans HS03 and Enterococcus lactis YY1 strains that gives a new insight into the cholesterol-lowering and probiotic product development with wide health attributes.

Comparative Genomics of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum: Insights Into Probiotic Markers in Strains Isolated From the Human Gastrointestinal Tract and Fermented Foods

Lactiplantibacillus (Lpb.) plantarum is a versatile species commonly found in a wide variety of ecological niches including dairy products and vegetables, while it may also occur as a natural inhabitant of the human gastrointestinal tract. Although Lpb. plantarum strains have been suggested to exert beneficial properties on their host, the precise mechanisms underlying these microbe-host interactions are still obscure. In this context, the genome-scale in silico analysis of putative probiotic bacteria represents a bottom-up approach to identify probiotic biomarkers, predict desirable functional properties, and identify potentially detrimental antibiotic resistance genes. In this study, we characterized the bacterial genomes of three Lpb. plantarum strains isolated from three distinct environments [strain IMC513 (from the human GIT), C904 (from table olives), and LT52 (from raw-milk cheese)]. A whole-genome sequencing was performed combining Illumina short reads with Oxford Nanopore long reads. The phylogenomic analyses suggested the highest relatedness between IMC513 and C904 strains which were both clade 4 strains, with LT52 positioned within clade 5 within the Lpb. plantarum species. The comparative genome analysis performed across several Lpb. plantarum representatives highlighted the genes involved in the key metabolic pathways as well as those encoding potential probiotic features in these new isolates. In particular, our strains varied significantly in genes encoding exopolysaccharide biosynthesis and in contrast to strains IMC513 and C904, the LT52 strain does not encode a Mannose-binding adhesion protein. The LT52 strain is also deficient in genes encoding complete pentose phosphate and the Embden-Meyerhof pathways. Finally, analyses using the CARD and ResFinder databases revealed that none of the strains encode known antibiotic resistance loci. Ultimately, the results provide better insights into the probiotic potential and safety of these three strains and indicate avenues for further mechanistic studies using these isolates.

Beneficial Effects of Fermented Camel and Cow’s Milk in Lipid Profile, Liver, and Renal Function in Hypercholesterolemic Rats

As hyperlipidemia has been associated with cardiovascular diseases, this study investigated the influence of probiotic-fermented camel and cow’s milk on blood lipid profiles in hypercholesterolemic rats. When tested, probiotic-fermented camel and cow’s milk exhibited the highest overall acceptance score in flavor and texture. Forty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into eight groups (n = 6). The first group served as normal control, while groups 2–8 were fed on a high-fat (HFD), high-cholesterol diet throughout the experimental period and treated with different types of fermented milks. Feeding rats on probiotic-fermented milk resulted in a significant decrease in the level of triglycerides (TG), cholesterol, and LDL compared with the positive control group. Albumin and total protein concentrations increased significantly, while ALT, AST, and creatinine were significantly reduced in rats fed on probiotic-fermented milk. The results indicated that probiotic-fermented milk might improve liver and kidney functions in hypercholesterolemic rats. These findings highlighted the ameliorative potentials of camel milk against hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress in rats.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Therapeutics: A Focus on Probiotic Engineering

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory condition of gastrointestinal (GI) tract with dysregulated mucosal immune functions and disturbed commensal ecosystem of the intestinal lumen. IBD is categorized into two major subsets: Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Though advent of biologics has shifted the treatment with relatively longer remission compared to small molecule pharmaceuticals, patients still suffer from long-term complications. Since gut-microbiome is now accepted as another human organ holding potential for long-lasting human health, probiotics, and its engineering hold great promises to treat several previously untreatable chronic inflammatory conditions including IBD. Several emerging biological engineering tools have unlimited potential to manipulate probiotic bacterial system. These can produce useful therapeutic biologics with a goal to either ameliorate and/or treat previously untreatable chronic inflammatory conditions. As gut-microbiome is diverse and vary in different ethnic, geographic, and cultural human population, it will be important to develop vision for personalized probiotic treatment and develop the technology thereof to make personalized probiotic options a reality. The aim of this review paper is to present an overview of the current knowledge on both pharmacological and nonpharmacological IBD treatment modalities with a special emphasis on probiotic strains that are developed through the probiotic engineering. These engineered probiotics contain the most anti-inflammatory cytokines found within the human immune response and are currently being used to treat the intestinal inflammation in IBD for the IBD treatment.

Targeting gut microbial bile salt hydrolase (BSH) by diet supplements: new insights into dietary modulation of human health

Dietary supplements could modulate the abundance of BSH-producing bacteria to regulate the BSH enzyme activity, thereby change the BAs composition to regulate FXR signaling, which then regulate human health.

Gut microbiota is a potential goalkeeper of dyslipidemia

Dyslipidemia, as a common metabolic disease, could cause atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, stroke and other cardio-cerebrovascular diseases. It is mainly caused by the interaction of genetic and environmental factors and its incidence has increased for several years. A large number of studies have shown that gut microbiota disorder is related to the development of dyslipidemia closely. Especially its metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, bile acids and trimethylamine N-oxide affect dyslipidemia by regulating cholesterol balance. In this paper, we systematically reviewed the literature and used knowledge graphs to analyze the research trends and characteristics of dyslipidemia mediated by gut microbiota, revealing that the interaction between diet and gut microbiota leads to dyslipidemia as one of the main factors. In addition, starting from the destruction of the dynamic balance between gut microbiota and host caused by dyslipidemia, we systematically summarize the molecular mechanism of gut microbiota regulating dyslipidemia and provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of dyslipidemia by targeting the gut microbiota.

Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) Activation by 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-Dioxin (TCDD) Dose-Dependently Shifts the Gut Microbiome Consistent with the Progression of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Gut dysbiosis with disrupted enterohepatic bile acid metabolism is commonly associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and recapitulated in a NAFLD-phenotype elicited by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in mice. TCDD induces hepatic fat accumulation and increases levels of secondary bile acids, including taurolithocholic acid and deoxycholic acid (microbial modified bile acids involved in host bile acid regulation signaling pathways). To investigate the effects of TCDD on the gut microbiota, the cecum contents of male C57BL/6 mice orally gavaged with sesame oil vehicle or 0.3, 3, or 30 µg/kg TCDD were examined using shotgun metagenomic sequencing. Taxonomic analysis identified dose-dependent increases in Lactobacillus species (i.e., Lactobacillus reuteri). Increased species were also associated with dose-dependent increases in bile salt hydrolase sequences, responsible for deconjugation reactions in secondary bile acid metabolism. Increased L. reuteri levels were further associated with mevalonate-dependent isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) biosynthesis and o-succinylbenzoate synthase, a menaquinone biosynthesis associated gene. Analysis of the gut microbiomes from cirrhosis patients identified an increased abundance of genes from the mevalonate-dependent IPP biosynthesis as well as several other menaquinone biosynthesis genes, including o-succinylbenzoate synthase. These results extend the association of lactobacilli with the AhR/intestinal axis in NAFLD progression and highlight the similarities between TCDD-elicited phenotypes in mice to human NAFLD.

Influence of Cultivation pH on Composition, Diversity, and Metabolic Production in an In Vitro Human Intestinal Microbiota

Fecal microbiota transplantation, an alternative treatment method for gastrointestinal diseases, has a high recovery rate, but comes with disadvantages, such as high donor requirements and the low storability of stool. A solution to overcome these problems is the cultivation of an in vitro microbiota. However, the influence of cultivation conditions on the pH are yet unknown. In this study, the influence of the cultivation pH (6.0–7.0) on the system’s behavior and characteristics, including cell count, metabolism, and microbial composition, was investigated. With an increasing cultivation pH, an increase in cell count, total amount of SCFAs, acetate, propionate, and the abundance of Bacteroidetes and Verrucomicrobia were observed. For the concentration of butyrate and the abundance of Actinobacteria and Firmicutes, a decrease with increasing pH was determined. For the concentration of isovalerate, the abundance of Proteobacteria and diversity (richness and Shannon effective), no effect of the pH was observed. Health-promoting genera were more abundant at lower pH levels. When cultivating an in vitro microbiota, all investigated pH values created a diverse and stable system. Ultimately, therefore, the choice of pH creates significant differences in the established in vitro microbiota, but no clear recommendations for a special value can be made.

Degradation of Bile Acids by Soil and Water Bacteria

Bile acids are surface-active steroid compounds with a C5 carboxylic side chain at the steroid nucleus. They are produced by vertebrates, mainly functioning as emulsifiers for lipophilic nutrients, as signaling compounds, and as an antimicrobial barrier in the duodenum. Upon excretion into soil and water, bile acids serve as carbon- and energy-rich growth substrates for diverse heterotrophic bacteria. Metabolic pathways for the degradation of bile acids are predominantly studied in individual strains of the genera Pseudomonas, Comamonas, Sphingobium, Azoarcus, and Rhodococcus. Bile acid degradation is initiated by oxidative reactions of the steroid skeleton at ring A and degradation of the carboxylic side chain before the steroid nucleus is broken down into central metabolic intermediates for biomass and energy production. This review summarizes the current biochemical and genetic knowledge on aerobic and anaerobic degradation of bile acids by soil and water bacteria. In addition, ecological and applied aspects are addressed, including resistance mechanisms against the toxic effects of bile acids.

Establishment of an In Vitro System of the Human Intestinal Microbiota: Effect of Cultivation Conditions and Influence of Three Donor Stool Samples

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an alternative method for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases with a high recovery rate. Disadvantages are ethical concerns, high donor requirements and the low storability of stool samples. The cultivation of an in vitro microbiota in a continuous bioreactor was established as an alternative to FMT to overcome these problems. In this study, the influence of the system parameters and donor stool characteristics was investigated. Each continuous colonic fermentation system was inoculated with feces from three different donors until a stable state was established. The influence of the fermentation conditions on the system's behavior regarding cell count, metabolic activity, short-chain fatty acid profile and microbiota composition as well as richness and diversity was assessed. Cultivation conditions were found to affect the microbial system: the number of cells and the production of short-chain fatty acids increased. The abundance of Actinobacteria and Firmicutes decreased, Bacteroidetes increased, while Proteobacteria and Verrucomicrobia remained largely unaffected. Diversity in the in vitro system decreased, but richness was unaffected. The cultivation of stool from different donors revealed that the performance of the created in vitro system was similar and comparable, but unique characteristics of the composition of the original stool remained.

The Role of Bifidobacteria in Predictive and Preventive Medicine: A Focus on Eczema and Hypercholesterolemia

Bifidobacteria colonize the human gastrointestinal tract early on in life, their interaction with the host starting soon after birth. The health benefits are strain specific and could be due to the produced polysaccharides. The consumption of probiotics may prevent obesity, irritable bowel syndrome, eczema or atopic dermatitis, and asthma. Non-replicative strains of Bifidobacterium longum (NCC3001 and NCC2705) promote the differentiation of normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs), inducing a high expression of differentiation markers (keratin —KRT1—, and transglutaminase —TGM1—) and pro-regeneration markers (cathepsins), including β-defensin-1, which plays an important role in modulating the cutaneous immune response. Strains belonging to the genera Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus can increase tight-junction proteins in NHEKs and enhance barrier function. Bifidobacteria and lactobacilli may be used as prophylactic or therapeutic agents towards enteric pathogens, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, lactose intolerance, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, colorectal cancer, cholesterol reduction, and control of obesity and metabolic disorders. Bifidobacterium bifidum showed an in vitro capability of lowering cholesterol levels thanks to its absorption into the bacterial membrane. Several strains of the species Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, L. casei, and L. gasseri led to a reduced amount of serum cholesterol due to their ability to assimilate cholesterol (in vitro). Lactococcus lactis KF147 and Lactobacillus plantarum Lp81 have also been shown to reduce cholesterol levels by 12%. Clarifying the specific health mechanisms of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains in preventing high-cost pathologies could be useful for delineating effective guidelines for the treatment of infants and adults.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum H-87 prevents high-fat diet-induced obesity by regulating bile acid metabolism in C57BL/6J mice

Bile salt hydrolase (BSH)-producing bacteria are negatively related to the body weight gain and energy storage of the host. We aimed to obtain a novel BSH-producing strain with excellent anti-obesity effect and explained its mechanism. Here, we selected a strain named Lactiplantibacillus plantarum H-87 (H-87) with excellent ability to hydrolyze glycochenodeoxycholic acid (GCDCA) and tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) in vitro from 12 lactobacilli, and evaluated its anti-obesity effect in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed C57BL/6J mice. The results suggested that H-87 could inhibit HFD-induced body weight gain, fat accumulation, liver lipogenesis and injury, insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. In addition, H-87 could colonize in the ileum and hydrolyze GCDCA and TUDCA, reflected as changes in the concentrations of GCDCA, TUDCA, CDCA and UDCA in the ileum or liver. Furthermore, the study identified that H-87 reduced TUDCA and GCDCA levels in the ileum, which decreased the GLP-1 secretion by L cells to alleviate insulin resistance in HFD-fed mice. Furthermore, H-87 increased the CDCA level in the ileum and liver to activate FXR signaling pathways to inhibit liver lipogenesis in HFD-fed mice. In addition, the decrease of intestinal conjugated bile acids (TUDCA and GCDCA) also increased fecal lipid content and decreased intestinal lipid digestibility. In conclusion, H-87 could inhibit liver fat deposition, insulin resistance and lipid digestion by changing bile acid enterohepatic circulation, and eventually alleviate HFD-induced obesity.

Isolation of Bile Salt Hydrolase and Uricase Producing Lactobacillus brevis SF121 from Pak Sian Dong (Fermented Spider Plant) for using as Probiotics

The interesting application of bile salt hydrolase enzyme is reduction of cholesterol in serum and amelioration lipid profile. While uricase enzyme can be applied to convert insoluble uric acid to be soluble form and excrete from the body. Probiotics are living organisms with generally know that they can provide beneficial effects to their host. Several reports show that probiotic bacteria with bile salt hydrolase and uricase can improve hypercholesterolemia and hyperuricemia patient. The novel isolate of Lactobacillus from Pak Sian Dong in this study is identified as L. brevis SF121 and probably use as probiotic bacteria in the future. However, this isolate still need further experiments to investigate and improve properties of probiotics. Moreover, this finding suggests that Pak Sian Dong or fermented spider plant can be designated as a good source for probiotic screening and also defines as health-promoting diet.

Lactococcus lactis Subspecies cremoris Elicits Protection Against Metabolic Changes Induced by a Western-Style Diet

BACKGROUND & AIMS

A Western-style diet, which is high in fat and sugar, can cause significant dyslipidemia and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; the diet has an especially strong effect in women, regardless of total calorie intake. Dietary supplementation with beneficial microbes might reduce the detrimental effects of a Western-style diet. We assessed the effects of Lactococcus lactis subspecies (subsp) cremoris on weight gain, liver fat, serum cholesterol, and insulin resistance in female mice on a high-fat, high-carbohydrate diet.

METHODS

Female C57BL/6 mice were fed either a high-fat, high-carbohydrate (Western-style) diet that contained 40% fat (mostly milk fat) and 43% carbohydrate (mostly sucrose) or a calorie-matched-per-gram control diet. The diets of mice were supplemented with 1 × 10⁹ colony-forming units of L lactis subsp cremoris ATCC 19257 or Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG ATCC 53103 (control bacteria) 3 times per week for 16 weeks. Body weights were measured, and fecal, blood, and liver tissues were collected and analyzed. Livers were analyzed for fat accumulation and inflammation, and blood samples were analyzed for cholesterol and glucose levels. Mice were housed within Comprehensive Lab Animal Monitoring System cages, and respiratory exchange ratio and activity were measured. Hepatic lipid profiles of L lactis subsp cremoris-supplemented mice were characterized by lipidomics mass spectrometry analysis.

RESULTS

Mice fed L lactis subsp cremoris while on the Western-style diet gained less weight, developed less hepatic steatosis and inflammation, and had a lower mean serum level of cholesterol and body mass index than mice fed the control bacteria. Mice fed the L lactis subsp cremoris had increased glucose tolerance while on the Western-style diet compared to mice fed control bacteria and had alterations in hepatic lipids, including oxylipins.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary supplementation with L lactis subsp cremoris in female mice on a high-fat, high-carbohydrate (Western-style) diet caused them to gain less weight, develop less liver fat and inflammation, reduce serum cholesterol levels, and increase glucose tolerance compared with mice on the same diet fed control bacteria. L lactis subsp cremoris is safe for oral ingestion and might be developed for persons with metabolic and liver disorders caused by a Western-style diet.

Multifarious cholesterol lowering potential of lactic acid bacteria equipped with desired probiotic functional attributes

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates possessed functional probiotic attributes, such as high hydrophobicity and autoaggregation ability, coaggregation capability with bacterial pathogens, antimicrobial activity, antioxidant potential, and hypocholesterolemic effects. Selected potential probiotic LAB, i.e. Lactobacillus paracasei M3, L. casei M5, L. paracasei M7, and few others were studied for their ability to lower cholesterol using a number of methods viz. cholesterol assimilation, bile salt deconjugation, cholesterol co-precipitation, cholesterol adhesion to probiotic cell wall, and miceller sequestration of cholesterol. L. casei M5 showed maximum bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity, and released 57.63 nmol of glycine/min, and was closely followed by LAB isolate M9 which generated 52.12 nmol of glycine/min. Sodium glycocholate was deconjugated by L. casei M5 to produce 27.77 μmol/mL of cholic acid, while other isolates produced 20-26 μmol/mL of cholic acid. Cholesterol was assimilated significantly by isolate M6 (82.15%) and L. casei M5 (76.51%). L. casei M5 showed higher cholesterol co-precipitation ability (50.16 μg/mL) as compared to other LAB isolates (33-44 μg/mL). Miceller cholesterol concentration was reduced maximally by LAB isolate M8 (87.5%), followed by isolates M5 (84.75%), M9 (84%), M10 (80%), and M37 (79%). Higher cell wall adhesion of cholesterol was realized by L. casei M5 (42.48 μg/mL) than other LAB isolates (30-40 μg/mL). Selected LAB probiotics demonstrated short chain fatty acid (acetate, propionate, and butyrate) producing ability, yet another way of probiotics-mediated cholesterol lowering.

Assessing the Safety and Efficacy of Lactobacillus plantarum MTCC 5690 and Lactobacillus fermentum MTCC 5689 in Colitis Mouse Model

Probiotic lactobacilli have an unprecedented history of safe use, although some cases of infections have raised concerns about their safety, and hence, a rigorous screening of any new strain even of Lactobacillus is a must in order to study possible adverse interactions with the host, particularly under unhealthy conditions. The present study was, therefore, undertaken to investigate the safety as well as therapeutic efficacy of probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum MTCC 5690 and L. fermentum MTCC 5689 strains in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model. Both MTCC 5690 and MTCC 5689 did not induce any detrimental effect on the colitic mice, as was reflected by normal colon and caecum length, blood biochemistry, hematology, and absence of inflammation. Although translocation of both the strains was observed in extraintestinal organs, probiotic-fed mice had significantly improved intestinal permeability and decreased myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Probiotic interventions also led to an improved health index and better growth of colitis mice compared to colitis animals with no probiotic intervention. These results point towards the safe use of L. plantarum MTCC 5690 and L. fermentum MTCC 5689 as biotherapeutics for amelioration of inflammatory conditions after establishing their efficacy in human clinical trials.

Probiotic and synbiotic supplementation could improve metabolic syndrome in prediabetic adults: A randomized controlled trial

AIMS

Modulation of the gastrointestinal microbiome is suggested to contribute to the progression of metabolic syndrome associated diseases. This study was designed to assess the effects of probiotics and synbiotics on metabolic syndrome in individuals with prediabetes.

METHODS

120 adults with prediabetes were enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized parallel-group clinical trial. Participants were randomized to a multi-species probiotic or inulin-based synbiotic or placebo. Blood samples and anthropometric measures were collected at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks after treatment. The primary outcome measures were the changes between groups in metabolic syndrome and its components' prevalence.

RESULTS

A significant trend for a reduction in the prevalence of hyperglycemia in probiotic and synbiotic groups (p = 0.01 and 0.005 respectively), and hypertension in probiotic group (p = 0.04) was found. The decreases in metabolic syndrome prevalence were significant after taking probiotic and synbiotic supplementation as compared with placebo (p = 0.02). Also, the prevalence of low HDL-cholesterol level was decreased during the study in the probiotic group compared with placebo (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The potential benefits of using probiotic and synbiotic for metabolic syndrome management in prediabetes have been supported by the results in the current study which might provide an important strategy to combat metabolic syndrome-associated diseases.

Cholesterol-lowering potentials of Lactobacillus strain overexpression of bile salt hydrolase on high cholesterol diet-induced hypercholesterolemic mice

Hypercholesterolemia is closely associated with cardiovascular disease. Supplementation with probiotics has been shown to contribute to improving lipid metabolism. The probiotic mechanisms of cholesterol reduction are complicated and remain unclear. One of the potential probiotic mechanisms for cholesterol reduction is the deconjugation of bile salts. We previously found a high bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity of Lactobacillus casei pWQH01 (overexpression of bsh1) and Lactobacillus plantarum AR113, but found no BSH activity for Lactobacillus casei LC2W in vitro. Therefore, we decided to investigate whether the high BSH activity of L. plantarum AR113 and L. casei pWQH01 could exert a cholesterol-reducing effect in vivo. Compared to the high-cholesterol diet (HCD) group, AR113 and pWQH01 groups had a significantly lower body weight (BW), serum total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and atherogenic index (AI), whereas the LC2W group had a poor capability to mitigate the blood lipid levels in the hypercholesterolemic mice. In addition, the AR113 and pWQH01 groups decreased the hepatic levels of TC and LDL-C and improved hepatic steatosis compared with the HCD group. To explore their cholesterol-lowering mechanisms of action, we determined the expression levels of these genes on the cholesterol metabolic pathways. AR113 and pWQH01 groups downregulated the expression of farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and small heterodimer partner (SHP) genes, but upregulated the expression of the cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) gene in the liver. Simultaneously, the expression of cholesterol liver X receptor (LXR) and low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) genes was upregulated in the liver. These results indicated that L. plantarum AR113 and L. casei pWQH01 could inhibit the cholesterol absorption and accelerate the cholesterol transportation. Taken together, these findings suggest that Lactobacillus strain overexpression of bile salt hydrolase has beneficial effects against hypercholesterolemia by reducing cholesterol absorption and increasing cholesterol catabolism.

Antimicrobial Effect and Probiotic Potential of Phage Resistant Lactobacillus plantarum and its Interactions with Zoonotic Bacterial Pathogens

Development of phage-resistant probiotic particularly Lactobacillus is an alternative approach to enhance their beneficial effects as in animal feed supplements. In this study, we developed phage-resistant Lactobacillus plantarum (LP^+PR) mutant and compared their antimicrobial effects and probiotic potential against zoonotic bacterial pathogens including Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC), Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes with phage-sensitive L. plantarum (LP) strain. LP^+PR strain showed markedly higher growth rate than wild-type LP strain. In co-culture with LP^+PR and in the presence of cell-free cultural supernatants (CFCSs) of LP^+PR, the growth of S. Typhimurium, EHEC, S. aureus, and L. monocytogenes were reduced significantly (P < 0.05). The adhesion ability of LP^+PR was slightly higher than the LP on human epithelial INT-407 cells. Most importantly, LP^+PR strain significantly inhibited the adhesive and invasive abilities of all four zoonotic pathogens to INT-407 cells (P < 0.05). Moreover, real-time qPCR revealed that in the presence of LP^+PR strain or its CFCSs, expression of virulence genes of these zoonotic bacterial pathogens were suppressed significantly (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that the LP^+PR strain is capable of inhibiting major zoonotic bacterial pathogens efficiently and would be a potential candidate for industrial usage in animal production or fermentation.

Lactobacillus mucosae DPC 6426 as a bile-modifying and immunomodulatory microbe

Background

Lactobacillus mucosae DPC 6426 has previously demonstrated potentially cardio-protective properties, in the form of dyslipidaemia and hypercholesterolemia correction in an apolipoprotein-E deficient mouse model. This study aims to characterise the manner in which this microbe may modulate host bile pool composition and immune response, in the context of cardiovascular disease. Lactobacillus mucosae DPC 6426 was assessed for bile salt hydrolase activity and specificity. The microbe was compared against several other enteric strains of the same species, as well as a confirmed bile salt hydrolase-active strain, Lactobacillus reuteri APC 2587.

Results

Quantitative bile salt hydrolase assays revealed that enzymatic extracts from Lactobacillus reuteri APC 2587 and Lactobacillus mucosae DPC 6426 demonstrate the greatest activity in vitro. Bile acid profiling of porcine and murine bile following incubation with Lactobacillus mucosae DPC 6426 confirmed a preference for hydrolysis of glyco-conjugated bile acids. In addition, the purified exopolysaccharide and secretome of Lactobacillus mucosae DPC 6426 were investigated for immunomodulatory capabilities using RAW264.7 macrophages. Gene expression data revealed that both fractions stimulated increases in interleukin-6 and interleukin-10 gene transcription in the murine macrophages, while the entire secretome was necessary to increase CD206 transcription. Moreover, the exopolysaccharide elicited a dose-dependent increase in nitric oxide and interleukin-10 production from RAW264.7 macrophages, concurrent with increased tumour necrosis factor-α secretion at all doses.

Conclusions

This study indicates that Lactobacillus mucosae DPC 6426 modulates both bile pool composition and immune system tone in a manner which may contribute significantly to the previously identified cardio-protective phenotype.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12866-019-1403-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Mechanisms of Action of Probiotics

Probiotics are living microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host when administered in adequate amounts; however, dead bacteria and their components can also exhibit probiotic properties. Bifidobacterium and strains of lactic acid bacteria are the most widely used bacteria that exhibit probiotic properties and are included in many functional foods and dietary supplements. Probiotics have been shown to prevent and ameliorate the course of digestive disorders such as acute, nosocomial, and antibiotic-associated diarrhea; allergic disorders such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) and allergic rhinitis in infants; and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea and some inflammatory bowel disorders in adults. In addition, probiotics may be of interest as coadjuvants in the treatment of metabolic disorders, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and type 2 diabetes. However, the mechanisms of action of probiotics, which are diverse, heterogeneous, and strain specific, have received little attention. Thus, the aim of the present work was to review the main mechanisms of action of probiotics, including colonization and normalization of perturbed intestinal microbial communities in children and adults; competitive exclusion of pathogens and bacteriocin production; modulation of fecal enzymatic activities associated with the metabolization of biliary salts and inactivation of carcinogens and other xenobiotics; production of short-chain and branched-chain fatty acids, which, in turn, have wide effects not only in the intestine but also in peripheral tissues via interactions with short-chain fatty acid receptors, modulating mainly tissue insulin sensitivity; cell adhesion and mucin production; modulation of the immune system, which results mainly in the differentiation of T-regulatory cells and upregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors, i.e., interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor; and interaction with the brain-gut axis by regulation of endocrine and neurologic functions. Further research to elucidate the precise molecular mechanisms of action of probiotics is warranted.

Lactobacillus plantarum LRCC 5273 isolated from Kimchi ameliorates diet-induced hypercholesterolemia in C57BL/6 mice

This study was designed to select potent cholesterol-lowering probiotic strains on HepG2 cell and investigate the effect of selected strain, Lactobacillus plantarum LRCC 5273 and LRCC 5279 in hypercholesterolemic mice. In the results, LP5273 group showed significantly reduced total and LDL cholesterol compared to HCD group. In addition to significantly up-regulated hepatic mRNA expression of LXR-α and CYP7A1, intestinal LXR-α and ABCG5 were significantly up-regulated in LP5273 group. With activation of hepatic and intestinal LXR-α and its target genes, fecal cholesterol and bile acid excretion were increased in LP5273 fed mice. These results suggest that LP5273 ameliorates hypercholesterolemia in mice through the activation of hepatic and intestinal LXR-α, resulting in enhancement of fecal cholesterol and bile acids excretion in the small intestine. The results of present study suggest mechanistic evidences for hypocholesterolemic effects of L. plantarum spp., and may contribute to future researches for prevention of hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular disease.

Multifunctional Role of the Whey Culture Medium in the Spray Drying Microencapsulation of Lactic Acid Bacteria

This study aims to evaluate the multifunctional role of whey culture medium during the spray drying microencapsulation of Lactobacillus fermentum K73. Whey culture medium containing growing microorganisms served to hydrate different mixtures (gum arabic, maltodextrin and whey). We evaluated the use of these mixtures as carbon sources and their protective effects on simulated gastrointestinal conditions. The optimal mixture was spray-dried while varying the outlet temperature and atomizing pressure using a response surface design. These conditions served to evaluate microorganism survival, tolerance to gastrointestinal conditions in vitro, physicochemical properties, morphometric features and stability at 4, 25 and 37 °C. Lactobacillus fermentum K73 replicated in the carrier material. Bacterial change cycles were (-1.97±0.16) log CFU/g after the drying process and 
(-0.61±0.08) and (-0.23±0.00) log CFU/g after exposure of the capsules to simulated gastric pH and bile salt content, respectively. The physicochemical properties and morphometric features were within the normal ranges for a powder product. The powder was stable at a storage temperature of 4 °C. The spray drying of the whey culture medium with growing microorganisms using the optimized drying conditions was successful. This study demonstrates the use of whey culture medium as a component of carrier material or as the carrier material itself, as well as its protective effects during drying, under simulated gastrointestinal conditions, and at varied storage temperatures.

Probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei HII01 protects rats against obese-insulin resistance-induced kidney injury and impaired renal organic anion transporter 3 function

The relationship between gut dysbiosis and obesity is currently acknowledged to be a health topic which causes low-grade systemic inflammation and insulin resistance and may damage the kidney. Organic anion transporter 3 (Oat3) has been shown as a transporter responsible for renal handling of gut microbiota products which are involved in the progression of metabolic disorder. The present study investigated the effect of probiotic supplementation on kidney function, renal Oat3 function, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and apoptosis in obese, insulin-resistant rats. After 12 weeks of being provided with either a normal or a high-fat diet (HF), rats were divided into normal diet (ND); ND treated with probiotics (NDL); HF; and HF treated with probiotic (HFL). Lactobacillus paracasei HII01 1 × 108 colony forming unit (CFU)/ml was administered to the rats daily by oral gavage for 12 weeks. Obese rats showed significant increases in serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS), plasma lipid profiles, and insulin resistance. Renal Oat 3 function was decreased along with kidney dysfunction in HF-fed rats. Obese rats also demonstrated the increases in inflammation, ER stress, apoptosis, and gluconeogenesis in the kidneys. These alterations were improved by Lactobacillus paracasei HII01 treatment. In conclusion, probiotic supplementation alleviated kidney inflammation, ER stress, and apoptosis, leading to improved kidney function and renal Oat3 function in obese rats. These benefits involve the attenuation of hyperlipidemia, systemic inflammation, and insulin resistance. The present study also suggested the idea of remote sensing and signaling system between gut and kidney by which probiotic might facilitate renal handling of gut microbiota products through the improvement of Oat3 function.

Dose-Dependent Effects of Multispecies Probiotic Supplementation on the Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) Level and Cardiometabolic Profile in Obese Postmenopausal Women: A 12-Week Randomized Clinical Trial

During the postmenopausal period, the risk of cardiovascular diseases is increased in many obese women and is associated with a worse cardiometabolic profile and a sub-chronic low-grade systemic inflammation caused by a gut barrier permeability dysfunction. Here, we tested whether administration of two different dosages of the multispecies probiotic Ecologic^® Barrier influenced the cardiometabolic biochemical parameters and lipopolysaccharide levels, the latter used as a marker of increased gut permeability in obese postmenopausal women. A total of 81 obese Caucasian postmenopausal women participated in the trial. The subjects were randomly assigned to three groups that received a placebo, a low dose (LD) (2.5 × 10⁹ colony forming units (CFU) per day), or a high dose (HD) (1 × 10¹⁰ CFU per day) of lyophilisate powder containing live multispecies probiotic bacteria. The probiotic supplement was administered each day in two equal portions for 12 weeks. We found significant (p < 0.05) favorable changes (mostly large or medium effects) in the evaluated parameters in both the HD and LD groups but not in the placebo group. In the HD group, lipopolysaccharide, waist, fat mass, subcutaneous fat, uric acid, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, glucose, insulin, and insulin-resistant index (HOMA-IR) were improved. Similar changes were observed in the LD group, except for lipopolysaccharide, uric acid, triglycerides, and glucose levels. Additionally, significant differences were observed in both groups in terms of fat percentage and visceral fat. When the mean changes were compared between the three groups, statistically significant differences in lipopolysaccharide levels, uric acid, glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR were found. Post hoc tests revealed significant differences in the mean changes (mostly medium effects) between the HD and LD groups for uric acid, glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR. In the 12-week randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind intervention, we observed that supplementation with the multispecies probiotic Ecologic^® Barrier favorably affected the risk factors in a dose-dependent manner, showing beneficial effects on the cardiometabolic parameters and gut permeability of the patients. Our results suggest that this product can be effective in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases in obese postmenopausal women.