Soy and Gut Microbiota: Interaction and Implication for Human Health

Gastrointestinal fate of proteins from commercial plant-based meat analogs: Silent passage through the stomach, oxidative stress in intestine, and gut dysbiosis in Wistar rats

Plant-based meat analogs (PBMAs) are common ultra-processed foods (UPFs) included in the vegan/vegetarian diets as presumed healthy alternatives to meat and meat products. However, such health claims need to be supported by scientific evidence. To gain further insight into this topic, two commercial UPFs typically sold as meat analogs, namely, seitan (S) and tofu (T), were included in a cereal-based chow and provided to Wistar rats for 10 weeks. A group of animals had, simultaneously, an isocaloric and isoprotein experimental diet formulated with cooked beef (B). In all cases, experimental chows (∼4 kcal/g feed) had their basal protein concentration increased from 14% to 30% using proteins from S, T, or B. Upon slaughter, in vivo protein digestibility was assessed, and the entire gastrointestinal tract (digests and tissues) was analyzed for markers of oxidative stress and untargeted metabolomics. Metagenomics was also applied to assess the variation of microbiota composition as affected by dietary protein. Diets based on PBMAs showed lower protein digestibility than those containing meat and promoted an intense luminal glycoxidative stress and an inflammatory intestinal response. The fermentation of undigested oxidized proteins from T in the colon of Wistar rats likely led to formation of mutagenic metabolites such as p-cresol. The presence of these compounds in the animal models raises concerns about the potential effects of full replacement of meat by certain PBMAs in the diet. Therefore, future research might target on translational human studies to shed light on these findings.

Fermented Soymilk with Probiotic Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium Strains Ameliorates Dextran-Sulfate-Sodium-Induced Colitis in Rats

Background: Current treatments for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are relatively futile and the extended use of drugs may reduce effectiveness. Several probiotic strains have shown promise in relieving/treating IBD symptoms. Objectives: The current study investigated the impact of fermented soymilk with a mixture of probiotic starter cultures containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus, L. casei, L. plantarum, L. acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, and B. animalis subsp. lactis in rats with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis compared to control. Methods: Rats were randomly assigned to five groups (5 rats/group; n = 25): G1: negative normal control; G2: positive control (DSS); G3: DSS with sulfasalazine (DSS-Z); G4: DSS with soymilk (DSS-SM), and G5: DSS with fermented soymilk (DSS-FSM). Parameters monitored included the following: the disease activity index (DAI), macroscopic and histological assessments of colitis, and a fecal microbial analysis performed to assess the severity of inflammation and ulceration. Results: The DSS-FSM rats group exhibited lower DAI scores (p < 0.05) than other treated groups during the induction period. A macroscopical examination revealed no ulceration or swelling in the intestinal mucosa of rats in the DSS-FSM-treated group, resembling the findings in the negative control group. In the positive control (DSS group), the colon tissue showed increased inflammation (p < 0.05), whereas those in the DSS-SM- and DSS-FSM-treated rats groups did not show significant macroscopic scores of colitis. The positive DSS control and DSS-Z groups had crypt erosion and ulceration areas, severe crypt damage, and epithelial surface erosion, which were absent in the negative control and DSS-FSM groups. The counts of Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. remained stable in both G1 and G5 over 4 weeks. The consumption of fermented soymilk with a mixture of probiotics could minimize the severity of DSS-induced colitis in rats. Conclusion, it was found that fermented soymilk containing Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium might be an effective vehicle for reducing the severity of DSS-induced colitis in rats.

Animal and plant protein intake association with mental health, tryptophan metabolites pathways, and gut microbiota in healthy women: a cross-sectional study

Mental health is affected by tryptophane (TRP) metabolism regulation. Diet-influenced gut microbiome regulates TRP metabolism. Thus, the present study aimed to explore the relationship between type of dietary protein intake, gut microbiota, TRP metabolites homeostasis, and mental well-being in healthy women. 91 healthy females aged 18-50 were recruited based on the study protocol. Validate and reliable questionnaires assessed dietary intake and mental health. Biochemical tests and gut microbiota composition were analyzed following the manufacturer's instructions for each enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA) kit and Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) methods respectively. Regression methods were used to estimate the considered associations. The results show that in the fully adjusted model, plant protein consumption was partially inversely associated with depression risk (OR = 0.27; 95% CI: 0.06, 1.09; P = 0.06). Higher dietary animal protein intake was marginally associated with psychological distress (OR = 2.59; 95% CI: 0.91, 7.34; P = 0.07). KYN to serotonin ratio was inversely associated with animal protein consumption (ß = 1.10; 95% CI: -0.13, 2.33; P = 0.07). Firmicutes/Bacteriodetes ratio (β = -1.27 × 103, SE = 5.99 × 102, P = 0.03) was lower in the top tertile of plant protein. A partially negative correlation was found between dietary animal protein and Prevotella abundance (β = -9.20 × 1018, SE = 5.04 × 1018, P = 0.06). Overall, significant inverse associations were found between a diet high in plant protein with mental disorders, KYN levels, and Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio while adhering to higher animal protein could predispose women to psychological stress.

Natural glyceollin soybean extracts elicited with Aspergillus sojae reduce estrogen-dependent breast cancer growth in orally fed mice

Previous studies have demonstrated antiestrogenic and antiproliferative effects of these molecules in breast cancer cells. Notably, we have reported that pure synthetic glyceollins I and II act through various pathways, including ERα, FOXM1, AhR, and HIF pathways to inhibit cell proliferation and migration. In this study, the potential antitumor activity of glyceollins enriched in crude soybean extracts, obtained by solid fermentation with Aspergillus sojae, was investigated in vivo on MCF-7 breast cancer cells implanted in the chorioallantoic membrane of the chick egg and on ovariectomized nude mice. The first trial showed a substantial reduction in the migration of MCF-7 cells treated with the natural extracts. However, the natural extracts significantly reduced the estrogen-dependent growth of transplanted tumors in orally fed nude mice. Our results showed that natural soybean extracts slightly but significantly reduced estrogen-dependent growth of the transplanted tumors in orally fed nude mice. These results were confirmed by immunohistochemistry of Ki-67 and histone H3S10 phosphorylation (H3S10P), revealing lower expression of these proliferation markers in the transplanted tumors from mice fed with the fermented extracts. Additionally, compared to the control animals, we observed a lower expression of angiogenesis markers such as CD31 and CD34. Surprisingly, transcriptomic analysis of RNA from transplanted MCF-7 cells revealed no differential gene expression. These results may suggest that orally consumed natural glyceollins exert biological effects throughout the body, acting indirectly to reduce tumor angiogenesis and consequently tumor volume. Overall, our results indicate that glyceollins, elicited components of the soy origin, hold potential therapeutic applications for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.

Nutrition Intervention and Microbiome Modulation in the Management of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. The escalating incidence of BC underscores the necessity of multi-level treatment. BC is a complex and heterogeneous disease involving many genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Growing evidence suggests that nutrition intervention is an evolving effective prevention and treatment strategy for BC. In addition, the human microbiota, particularly the gut microbiota, is now widely recognized as a significant player contributing to health or disease status. It is also associated with the risk and development of BC. This review will focus on nutrition intervention in BC, including dietary patterns, bioactive compounds, and nutrients that affect BC prevention and therapeutic responses in both animal and human studies. Additionally, this paper examines the impacts of these nutrition interventions on modulating the composition and functionality of the gut microbiome, highlighting the microbiome-mediated mechanisms in BC. The combination treatment of nutrition factors and microbes is also discussed. Insights from this review paper emphasize the necessity of comprehensive BC management that focuses on the nutrition-microbiome axis.

Soybean Bioactive Peptide Supplementation Affects the Intestinal Immune Antioxidant Function, Microbial Diversity, and Reproductive Organ Development in Roosters

Soybean is an important source of high-quality vegetable protein with various health-improving properties, and its main bioactive substances are small peptides produced by in vitro enzymatic hydrolytic processes. In traditional layer breeding, the nutritional health of roosters is frequently neglected, ultimately affecting the quality and quantity of offspring. This study investigated the effects of various quantities (0%, 0.15%, 0.30%, 0.45%, and 0.60%) of soybean bioactive peptide (SBP) feed additives on immunological and antioxidant functions, gut health, and reproductive performance of roosters. SBP supplementation significantly improved male growth and reproductive performance, including growth rate, feed conversion ratio, reproductive organ development, and semen quality. SBP also increased immune and antioxidant levels, boosted the integrity of the small intestinal physiological structure and barrier function, and diversity of cecal microbes, and decreased the apoptotic ratio of small intestinal epithelial cells. The effects of SBP on various functions of males showed a quadratic trend, with the optimal concentration determined to be 0.45%.

Effects of replacing fishmeal with soybean meal on the immune and antioxidant capacity, and intestinal metabolic functions of red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii

Excess utilization of plant protein sources in animal feed has been found to adversely affect the antioxidant properties and immunity of animals. While the role of gut microbes in plant protein-induced inflammation has been identified in various models, the specific mechanisms regulating gut microbes in crustaceans remain unclear. Accordingly, this study was designed to investigate the effects of replacing fishmeal with soybean meal (SM) on the hepatopancreas antioxidant and immune capacities, and gut microbial functions of crayfish, as well as the potential microbial regulatory mechanisms. 750 crayfish (4.00 g) were randomly divided into five groups: SS0, SS25, SS50, SS75, and SS100, and fed diets with different levels of soybean meal substituted for fishmeal for six weeks. High SM supplementation proved detrimental to maintaining hepatopancreas health, as indicated by an increase in hemolymph MDA content, GPT, and GOT activities, the observed rupture of hepatopancreas cell basement membranes, along with the decreased number of hepatopancreatic F cells. Moreover, crayfish subjected to high SM diets experienced obvious inflammation in hepatopancreas, together with up-regulated mRNA expression levels of nfkb, alf, and tlr (p<0.05), whereas the lzm mRNA expression level exhibited the highest value in the SS25 group. Furthermore, hepatopancreas antioxidant properties highly attenuated by the level of dietary SM substitution levels, as evidenced by the observed increase in MDA content (p<0.05), decrease in GSH content (p<0.05), and inhabitation of SOD, CAT, GPx, and GST activities (p<0.05), along with down-regulated hepatopancreas cat, gpx, gst, and mmnsod mRNA expression levels via inhibiting nrf2/keap1 pathway. Functional genes contributing to metabolism identified that high SM diets feeding significantly activated lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis, revealing gut dysfunction acted as the cause of inflammation. The global microbial co-occurrence network further indicated that the microbes contributing more to serum indicators and immunity were in module eigengene 17 (ME17). A structural equation model revealed that the genes related to alf directly drove the serum enzyme activities through microbes in ME17, with OTU399 and OTU533 identified as major biomarkers and classified into Proteobacteria that secrete endotoxins. To conclude, SM could replace 25 % of fishmeal in crayfish diets without negatively affecting immunity, and antioxidant capacity. Excessive SM levels contributed to gut dysfunction and weakened the innate immune system of crayfish.

Effect of Plant-Based Mung Bean Products on Digestibility and Gut Microbiome Profiling Using In Vitro Fecal Fermentation

The concept of plant-based protein consumption has been increasing recently because of the growing health consciousness among people. Mung bean is one of the most consumed legumes with a dense nutrient profile. Hence, current research is aimed to study the effect of mung bean protein-based products including mung bean snack (MBS) and textured vegetable protein (TVP) for treatment groups against the control groups, commercial ingredients group consisting of mung bean powder (MBP) and pea powder (PP) and commercial products group include commercial pea texture (cPT) and commercial textured vegetable protein (cTVP) for their proximate composition, digestibility, gut microbial profile and fatty acid metabolite profiling. The MBS and TVP samples had significantly higher digestibility of 74.43% and 73.24% than the commercial products. The protein content of TVP was 0.8 times higher than its commercial control. Gut microbiome profiling showed that all the samples shared around 162 similar genera. Post-fermentation analysis provided promising results by reflecting the growth of beneficial bacteria (Parabacteroides, Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus) and the suppression of pathogens (Escherichia-Shigella, Dorea and Klebsiella). The dual relationship between gut microbiota and nutrient interaction proved the production of abundant short- and branched-chain fatty acids. The MBS sample was able to produce SCFAs (41.27 mM) significantly and BCFAs (2.02 mM) than the TVP sample (27.58 mM and 2.14 mM, respectively). Hence, our research outcomes proved that the mung bean protein-based products might infer numerous health benefits to the host due to enriched probiotics in the gut and the production of their corresponding metabolites.

Fine-tuning of mononuclear phagocytes for improved inflammatory responses: role of soybean-derived immunomodulatory compounds

The concept of inflammation encompasses beneficial and detrimental aspects, which are referred to as infectious and sterile inflammations, respectively. Infectious inflammation plays a crucial role in host defense, whereas sterile inflammation encompasses allergic, autoimmune, and lifestyle-related diseases, leading to detrimental effects. Dendritic cells and macrophages, both of which are representative mononuclear phagocytes (MNPs), are essential for initiating immune responses, suggesting that the regulation of MNPs limits excessive inflammation. In this context, dietary components with immunomodulatory properties have been identified. Among them, soybean-derived compounds, including isoflavones, saponins, flavonoids, and bioactive peptides, act directly on MNPs to fine-tune immune responses. Notably, some soybean-derived compounds have demonstrated the ability to alleviate the symptom of allergy and autoimmunity in mouse models. In this review, we introduce and summarize the roles of soybean-derived compounds on MNP-mediated inflammatory responses. Understanding the mechanism by which soybean-derived molecules regulate MNPs could provide valuable insights for designing safe immunomodulators.

Soy Protein Concentrate Diets Inversely Affect LPS-Binding Protein Expression in Colon and Liver, Reduce Liver Inflammation, and Increase Fecal LPS Excretion in Obese Zucker Rats

Dietary soy protein and soy isoflavones have anti-inflammatory properties. Previously, we reported that feeding soy protein concentrate diet (SPC) with low or high isoflavone (LIF or HIF) to young (seven-week-old) obese (fa/fa) Zucker rats inhibits lipopolysaccharide (LPS) translocation and decreases liver inflammation compared to a casein control (CAS) diet. The current study investigated whether SPC-LIF and SPC-HIF diets would reduce liver inflammation in adult obese Zucker rats fed a CAS diet. A total of 21 six-week-old male obese (fa/fa) Zucker rats were given CAS diet for 8 weeks to develop obesity then randomly assigned to CAS, SPC-LIF, or SPC-HIF (seven rats/group) diet for an additional 10 weeks. The expression of LPS-translocation, inflammation, and intestinal permeability markers were quantified by qPCR in liver, visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and colon. LPS concentration was determined in both the colon content and fecal samples by a Limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) test. SPC-LIF and SPC-HIF diets significantly decreased liver LPS-binding protein (LBP) expression compared to CAS diet (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). SPC-HIF diet also significantly decreased liver MCP-1 and TNF-α expression (p < 0.05) and had a trend to decrease liver iNOS expression (p = 0.06). In the colon, SPC-HIF diet significantly increased LBP expression compared to CAS diet (p < 0.05). When samples from all three groups were combined, there was a negative correlation between colon LBP expression and liver LBP expression (p = 0.046). SPC diets did not alter the expression of intestinal permeability markers (i.e., occludin, claudin 3, and zonula occludens-1) in the colon or inflammation markers (i.e., TNF-α and iNOS) in VAT or the colon. LPS levels in the colon content did not differ between any groups. Fecal LPS levels were significantly higher in the SPC-LIF and SPC-HIF groups compared to the CAS group (p < 0.01). In conclusion, SPC, particularly SPC with HIF, reduces liver LBP expression and inflammation makers (i.e., TNF-α and MCP-1 expression) in adult obese Zucker rats, likely by reducing LPS translocation.

Soy Product Consumption and the Risk of Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

BACKGROUND

The association between soy product consumption and cancer risk varies among studies. Therefore, this comprehensive meta-analysis of observational studies examines the association between soy product consumption and total cancer risk.

METHODS

This study was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Up to October 2023, all eligible published studies were searched through PubMed and Web of Science databases.

RESULTS

A total of 52 studies on soy product consumption were included in this meta-analysis (17 cohort studies and 35 case-control studies). High consumption of total soy products (RR: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.60, 0.80), tofu (RR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.70, 0.86), and soymilk (RR: 0.75; 95% CI: 0.60, 0.93) were associated with reduced total cancer risk. No association was found between high consumption of fermented soy products (RR: 1.18; 95% CI: 0.95, 1.47), non-fermented soy products (RR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.77, 1.18), soy paste (RR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.88, 1.14), miso soup (RR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.87, 1.12), or natto (RR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.82, 1.11) and cancer risk. A 54 g per day increment of total soy products reduced cancer risk by 11%, a 61 g per day increment of tofu reduced cancer risk by 12%, and a 23 g per day increment of soymilk reduced cancer risk by 28%, while none of the other soy products were associated with cancer risk.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that high total soy product consumption, especially soymilk and tofu, is associated with lower cancer risk. More prospective cohort studies are still needed to confirm the causal relationship between soy product consumption and cancer risk.

Exploring Impact of Probiotic-Fermented Soymilk on Dextran-Sulfate-Sodium-Induced Ulcerative Colitis via Modulating Inflammation and Gut Microbiota Profile

SCOPE

Lactic acid bacteria with probiotic functions and their fermentation products play a role in regulating ulcerative colitis (UC). This study investigates the potential role of fermented soymilk (FSM4) rich in isoflavones on DSS-induced UC.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Mice received 3% DSS and are supplemented daily once for 1 week by NFSM and FSM4. DSS usually causes intestinal inflammation and alters the gut microbiota. FSM4 intervention improves the UC-related inflammation and gut microbiota alteration. It considerably decreases pro-inflammatories such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in serum and COX-2 and MPO in colon tissues and pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia-Shigella). This facilitates gut-healthy bacteria growth. These healthy bacteria negatively correlat with pro-inflammatory factors but positively associated with acetic acid, butyric acid, and propionic acid, which may act for PPAR-γ pathway activating and NF-κB p65 pathway inhibiting, lowering the risk of UC. Overall, FSM4 might alleviate UC and significantly reverse the dysbiosis of gut microbiota via the PPAR-γ activation. It could be a good alternative for developing functional food to protect against UC.

CONCLUSION

FSM4 attenuates intestinal inflammation and modulates the SCFA-producing bacteria growth, which enable the PPAR-γ activation to alleviate the UC target, which could be a dietary intervention strategy for gut health.

Localization and identification of denatured antigenic sites of glycinin A3 subunit after using two processing technologies

Glycinin is an important allergen in soybeans. In this study, molecular cloning and recombinant phage construction were performed to explore the antigenic sites of the glycinin A3 subunit that were denatured during processing. Next, the A-1-a fragment was located as the denatured antigenic sites by indirect ELISA. The combined UHP heat treatment showed better denaturation of this subunit than the single heat treatment assay. In addition, identification of the synthetic peptide showed that the A-1-a fragment was an amino acid sequence containing a conformational and linear IgE site, in which the first synthetic peptide (P1) being both an antigenic and allergenic site. The results of alanine-scanning showed that the key amino acids affecting antigenicity and allergenicity of A3 subunit were S²⁸, K²⁹, E³², L³⁵ and N¹³. Our results could provide the basis for further development of more efficient methods to reduce the allergenicity of soybeans.

Dietary Patterns, Gut Microbiota Remodeling, and Cardiometabolic Disease

The cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, collectively known as cardiometabolic disease (CMD), are high morbidity and mortality pathologies associated with lower quality of life and increasing health-care costs. The influence of the gut microbiota (GM) in dictating the interpersonal variability in CMD susceptibility, progression and treatment response is beginning to be deciphered, as is the mutualistic relation established between the GM and diet. In particular, dietary factors emerge as pivotal determinants shaping the architecture and function of resident microorganisms in the human gut. In turn, intestinal microbes influence the absorption, metabolism, and storage of ingested nutrients, with potentially profound effects on host physiology. Herein, we present an updated overview on major effects of dietary components on the GM, highlighting the beneficial and detrimental consequences of diet-microbiota crosstalk in the setting of CMD. We also discuss the promises and challenges of integrating microbiome data in dietary planning aimed at restraining CMD onset and progression with a more personalized nutritional approach.

Soy and Gastrointestinal Health: A Review

Soybean is the most economically important legume globally, providing a major source of plant protein for millions of people; it offers a high-quality, cost-competitive and versatile base-protein ingredient for plant-based meat alternatives. The health benefits of soybean and its constituents have largely been attributed to the actions of phytoestrogens, which are present at high levels. Additionally, consumption of soy-based foods may also modulate gastrointestinal (GI) health, in particular colorectal cancer risk, via effects on the composition and metabolic activity of the GI microbiome. The aim of this narrative review was to critically evaluate the emerging evidence from clinical trials, observational studies and animal trials relating to the effects of consuming soybeans, soy-based products and the key constituents of soybeans (isoflavones, soy proteins and oligosaccharides) on measures of GI health. Our review suggests that there are consistent favourable changes in measures of GI health for some soy foods, such as fermented rather than unfermented soy milk, and for those individuals with a microbiome that can metabolise equol. However, as consumption of foods containing soy protein isolates and textured soy proteins increases, further clinical evidence is needed to understand whether these foods elicit similar or additional functional effects on GI health.

Modulation of allergic contact dermatitis via gut microbiota modified by diet, vitamins, probiotics, prebiotics, and antibiotics

Allergic contact dermatitis is one of the most common recorded occupational diseases. There are many different substances that the skin comes into contact with on a daily basis and that can cause ACD, e.g., preservatives, surfactants, and antimicrobial agents. The development of a mouse model of ACD has provided insight into the immune mechanisms involved. Drugs used in the treatment of skin diseases have many side effects. Therefore, alternative methods of suppressing the immune response to reduce the symptoms of skin diseases are being sought. In recent years, high hopes have been placed on dietary modulation and supplementation to affect the intestinal microbial composition and promote anti-inflammatory responses. In addition, other studies have shown the crucial role of intestinal microbiota in many immune-mediated diseases. Recognition and characterization of pro- and anti-inflammatory nutrients and supplements may be crucial to support the treatment of diseases such as atopic dermatitis, acne vulgaris, psoriasis, and allergic contact dermatitis.

The SWGEDWGEIW from Soybean Peptides Reduces Insulin Resistance in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes by Activating p-Akt/GLUT4 Signaling Pathway

Diabetes mellitus, a group of metabolic disorders characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, affects millions of people worldwide and is on the rise. Dietary proteins, from a wide range of food sources, are rich in bioactive peptides with anti-diabetic properties. Notably, the protective mechanism of the single peptide SWGEDWGEIW (TSP) from soybean peptides (SBPs) on insulin resistance of adipocytes in an inflammatory state was investigated by detecting the lipolysis and glucose absorption and utilization of adipocytes. The results showed that different concentrations of TSP (5, 10, 20 µg/mL) intervention can reduce 3T3-L1 adipocytes’ insulin resistance induced by inflammatory factors in a dose-dependent manner and increase glucose utilization by 34.2 ± 4.6%, 74.5 ± 5.2%, and 86.7 ± 6.1%, respectively. Thus, TSP can significantly alleviate the lipolysis of adipocytes caused by inflammatory factors. Further mechanism analysis found that inflammatory factors significantly reduced the phosphorylation (p-Akt) of Akt, two critical proteins of glucose metabolism in adipocytes, and the expression of GLUT4 protein downstream, resulting in impaired glucose utilization, while TSP intervention significantly increased the expression of these two proteins. After pretreatment of adipocytes with PI3K inhibitor (LY294002), TSP failed to reduce the inhibition of p-Akt and GLUT4 expression in adipocytes. Meanwhile, the corresponding significant decrease in glucose absorption and the increase in the fat decomposition of adipocytes indicated that TSP reduced 3T3-L1 adipocytes’ insulin resistance by specifically activating the p-Akt/GLUT4 signal pathway. Therefore, TSP has the potential to prevent obesity-induced adipose inflammation and insulin resistance.

Improvement of Estrogen Deficiency Symptoms by the Intake of Long-Term Fermented Soybeans (Doenjang) Rich in Bacillus Species through Modulating Gut Microbiota in Estrogen-Deficient Rats

Traditionally made doenjang (TMD) produced by the long-term fermentation of soybeans with salt may improve symptoms of estrogen deficiency. We aimed to evaluate the effects of four TMD types, containing low and high amounts of Bacillus species and biogenic amines (HBHA, HBLA, LBHA, and LBLA), on energy, glucose, and lipid metabolism, by altering the gut microbiota in estrogen-deficient ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Their mechanisms were also examined. The OVX rats were divided into the control, cooked soybean (CSB), HBHA, LBHA, HBLA, and LBLA groups. Sham-operated rats were the normal control group. Serum 17β-estradiol concentrations were similar among all OVX groups. Tail skin temperatures, which are indicative of hot flashes, were higher in the control than the HBHA and HBLA groups and were similar to the normal control group. Weight gain and visceral fat mass were lower in the TMD and CSB intake groups but not as low as in the normal control group. Lean body mass showed a trend opposite to that of visceral fat in the respective groups. The hepatic triglyceride content decreased with the TMD intake compared to the control and CSB groups. mRNA expressions of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 in the TMD and CSB groups were as high as in the normal control group, and the PPAR-γ mRNA expression was more elevated in the HBLA group than in the normal control group. The morphology of the intestines improved in the TMD groups compared to the control, and the HBHA and HBLA groups showed an enhanced improvement compared to the CSB group. The HBHA, HBLA, and LBHA groups increased the α-diversity of the cecal microbiota compared to the control. Akkermenia and Lactobacillus were higher in the HBLA and LBLA groups compared to the control. The expression of the estrogen, forkhead box proteins of the class-O subgroup, and insulin-signaling pathways were lower in the control group, and HBHA and HBLA prevented their decrement. In conclusion, long-term treatment with TMD containing high amounts of Bacillus potentially improves estrogen deficiency symptoms more than unfermented soybeans.

Preclinical and clinical evidence for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease with soybean: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a prevalent public health issue, involves the accumulation of triglycerides in hepatocytes, which is generally considered to be an early lesion of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Thus, the development of treatments for NAFLD is urgently needed. This study explored the preclinical and clinical evidence of soybeans to alleviate NAFLD. Studies indexed in three relevant databases-Web of Science, PubMed, and Embase-between January 2002 and August 2022 were retrieved. A total of 13 preclinical studies and five RCTs that included 212 animals and 260 patients were included in the present analysis. The preclinical analysis showed that liver function indices (AST, SMD = -1.41, p < 0.0001 and ALT, SMD = -1.47, p < 0.0001) were significantly improved in the soybean group compared to the model group, and fatty liver indicators (TG, SMD = -0.78, p < 0.0001; TC, SMD = -1.38, p < 0.0001) and that oxidative stress indices (MDA, SMD = -1.09, p < 0.0001; SOD, SMD = 1.74, p = 0.022) were improved in the soybean group. However, the five RCTs were not entirely consistent with the preclinical results; however, the results confirmed the protective effect on the liver. The results of the clinical RCTs showed that soybean significantly affected liver function, fatty liver, and oxidative stress indicators (ALT, SMD = -0.42, p = 0.006; TG, SMD = -0.31, p = 0.039; MDA, SMD = -0.76, p = 0.007). The current meta-analysis combined preclinical and clinical studies and verified that soybean could protect the liver in NAFLD by regulating lipid metabolism and oxidative stress factors via the Akt/AMPK/PPARα signaling pathway. Soybean might be a promising therapeutic agent for treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Systematic Review Registration: (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/#myprospero), identifier (CRD42022335822).

Soy isoflavone-specific biotransformation product S-equol in the colon: physiological functions, transformation mechanisms, and metabolic regulatory pathways

Epidemiological data suggest that regular intake of soy isoflavones may reduce the incidence of estrogen-dependent and aging-associated disorders. Equol is a metabolite of soy isoflavone (SI) produced by specific gut microbiota and has many beneficial effects on human health due to its higher biological activity compared to SI. However, only 1/3 to 1/2 of humans are able to produce equol in the body, which means that not many people can fully benefit from SI. This review summarizes the recent advances in equol research, focusing on the chemical properties, physiological functions, conversion mechanisms in vitro and vivo, and metabolic regulatory pathways affecting S-equol production. Advanced experimental designs and possible techniques in future research plan are also fully discussed. Furthermore, this review provides a fundamental basis for researchers in the field to understand individual differences in S-equol production, the efficiency of metabolic conversion of S-equol, and fermentation production of S-equol in vitro.

Dietary Impacts on Gestational Diabetes: Connection between Gut Microbiome and Epigenetic Mechanisms

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common obstetric complications due to an increased level of glucose intolerance during pregnancy. The prevalence of GDM increases due to the obesity epidemic. GDM is also associated with an increased risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia resulting in elevated maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Diet is one of the most important environmental factors associated with etiology of GDM. Studies have shown that the consumption of certain bioactive diets and nutrients before and during pregnancy might have preventive effects against GDM leading to a healthy pregnancy outcome as well as beneficial metabolic outcomes later in the offspring's life. Gut microbiome as a biological ecosystem bridges the gap between human health and diseases through diets. Maternal diets affect maternal and fetal gut microbiome and metabolomics profiles, which consequently regulate the host epigenome, thus contributing to later-life metabolic health in both mother and offspring. This review discusses the current knowledge regarding how epigenetic mechanisms mediate the interaction between maternal bioactive diets, the gut microbiome and the metabolome leading to improved metabolic health in both mother and offspring.

Human matters in asthma: Considering the microbiome in pulmonary health

Microbial communities form an important symbiotic ecosystem within humans and have direct effects on health and well-being. Numerous exogenous factors including airborne triggers, diet, and drugs impact these established, but fragile communities across the human lifespan. Crosstalk between the mucosal microbiota and the immune system as well as the gut-lung axis have direct correlations to immune bias that may promote chronic diseases like asthma. Asthma initiation and pathogenesis are multifaceted and complex with input from genetic, epigenetic, and environmental components. In this review, we summarize and discuss the role of the airway microbiome in asthma, and how the environment, diet and therapeutics impact this low biomass community of microorganisms. We also focus this review on the pediatric and Black populations as high-risk groups requiring special attention, emphasizing that the whole patient must be considered during treatment. Although new culture-independent techniques have been developed and are more accessible to researchers, the exact contribution the airway microbiome makes in asthma pathogenesis is not well understood. Understanding how the airway microbiome, as a living entity in the respiratory tract, participates in lung immunity during the development and progression of asthma may lead to critical new treatments for asthma, including population-targeted interventions, or even more effective administration of currently available therapeutics.

Effects of Bacillus subtilis BSNK-5-Fermented Soymilk on the Gut Microbiota by In Vitro Fecal Fermentation

The gut microbiota of soymilk intervention is beneficial to maintaining human health. Bacillus subtilis fermented soymilk has brought much interest, due to its richness of thrombolytic nattokinase and the strain of potential probiotic properties. In this study, soymilk was fermented by B. subtilis BSNK-5, and the BSNK-5-fermented soymilk (SMF) on the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and the regulation of fecal microbiota was initially evaluated by in vitro fecal fermentation. SMF supplementation obviously increased the levels of SCFAs from 32.23 mM to 49.10 mM, especially acetic acid, propionic acid, and isobutyric acid. Additionally, SMF changed the composition and microbial diversity of gut microbiota. After 24 h of anaerobic incubation in vitro, SMF decreased the Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio favoring weight loss, increased Lachnospiraceae_UCG-004 and the other beneficial bacteria producing SCFAs, as well as suppressing pathogenic Streptococcus genus. These results revealed the potential use of BSNK-5-fermented soymilk as a potential candidate to promote gut health.

Soy consumption and serum uric acid levels: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Soy consumption has health benefits, but the relationship between soy and uric acid remains uncertain. This meta-analysis and systematic review evaluated the effects of soy intake on plasma uric acid.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, CNKI, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies evaluating the effects of soy, soy products, soy protein, and soy isoflavones on uric acid levels. The primary outcome was serum or plasma uric acid concentration. Study quality was evaluated by the Cochrane Collaboration and SYRCLE risk-of-bias tools.

Results

A total of 17 studies were included. Qualitative analysis of three human clinical studies of acute effects revealed that soy consumption increased serum uric acid concentration; however, soy-derived products, including tofu, bean curd cake, and dried bean curd sticks, had no significant effect on serum uric acid. A meta-analysis of five long-term human studies (10 data sets) revealed that soy protein and soy isoflavones had no significant effects on uric acid levels [weighted mean difference (WMD) = -2.11; 95% confidence interval (CI): -8.78, 4.55; p = 0.53]. However, most epidemiological data revealed that soy intake is inversely associated with uric acid levels. Meta-analysis of nine animal trials (29 data sets) revealed that soy protein and soy isoflavones significantly reduced serum uric acid concentrations (vs. controls; MD = -38.02; 95% CI: -50.60, -25.44; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Soy and its products have different effects on serum uric acid. Soy products like tofu, bean curd cake, and dried bean curd sticks could be high-quality protein sources for individuals with hyperuricemia or gout. It can be beneficial to nutritionists and healthcare decision-makers reconsider their conceptions about the relationship between soy and uric acid levels according to the latest and further scientific study results.

Systematic review registration

[www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO], identifier [CRD42022331855].

The Impact of Plant Phytochemicals on the Gut Microbiota of Humans for a Balanced Life

The gastrointestinal tract of humans is a complex microbial ecosystem known as gut microbiota. The microbiota is involved in several critical physiological processes such as digestion, absorption, and related physiological functions and plays a crucial role in determining the host’s health. The habitual consumption of specific dietary components can impact beyond their nutritional benefits, altering gut microbiota diversity and function and could manipulate health. Phytochemicals are non-nutrient biologically active plant components that can modify the composition of gut microflora through selective stimulation of proliferation or inhibition of certain microbial communities in the intestine. Plants secrete these components, and they accumulate in the cell wall and cell sap compartments (body) for their development and survival. These compounds have low bioavailability and long time-retention in the intestine due to their poor absorption, resulting in beneficial impacts on gut microbiota population. Feeding diets containing phytochemicals to humans and animals may offer a path to improve the gut microbiome resulting in improved performance and/or health and wellbeing. This review discusses the effects of phytochemicals on the modulation of the gut microbiota environment and the resultant benefits to humans; however, the effect of phytochemicals on the gut microbiota of animals is also covered, in brief.

Fermented Soy and Fish Protein Dietary Sources Shape Ileal and Colonic Microbiota, Improving Nutrient Digestibility and Host Health in a Piglet Model

Suitable protein sources are essential requirements for piglet growth and health. Typically, intestinal microbiota co-develops with the host and impact its physiology, which make it more plastic to dietary protein sources at early stages. However, the effects of fermented soybean meal (FSB) and fish meal (FM) on foregut and hindgut microbiota, and their relationship with nutrient digestion and host health remain unclear. In this study, we identified interactions between ileac and colonic microbiota which were reshaped by FSB and FM, and assessed host digestibility and host health in a piglet model. Eighteen weaned piglets (mean weight = 8.58 ± 0.44 kg) were divided into three dietary treatments, with six replicates/treatment. The level of dietary protein was 16%, with FSB, FM, and a mixture of fermented soybean meal and fish meal (MFSM) applied as protein sources. During days 1-14 and 1-28, diets containing MFSM generated higher piglet body weight and average daily gain, but lower feed to weight gain ratios when compared with the FM diet (P < 0.05). Piglets in MFSM and FM groups had lower apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of crude protein (CP) compared with the FSB group (P < 0.05). Serum immunoglobulins (IgM and IgG) in MFSM and FM groups were significantly higher on day 28, but serum cytokines (interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α) were significantly lower than the FSB group on days 14 and 28 (P < 0.05). When compared with FSB and FM groups, dietary MFSM significantly increased colonic acetic acid and butyric acid levels (P < 0.05). Compared with the FM and MFSM groups, the FSB diet increased the relative abundance of ileac Lactobacillus and f_Lactobacillaceae, which were significant positively correlated with CP ATTD (P < 0.05). Compared with the FSB group, the relative abundance of f_Peptostreptococcaceae and Romboutsia in MFSM or FM groups were increased and were significant positively correlated with total carbohydrate (TC) ATTD (P < 0.05). Piglets fed FSB had higher α-diversity in colonic microbiota when compared with other groups (P < 0.05). The relative abundance of colonic unidentified_Clostridiales and Romboutsia in MFSM and FSB groups were significantly higher than in the FM group (P < 0.05). Dietary MFSM or FM increased the relative abundance of colonic Streptococcaceae and Streptococcus, but decreased the relative abundance of Christensenellaceae when compared with the FSB group (P < 0.05). These bacteria showed a significantly positive correlation with serum cytokine and immunoglobulin levels (P < 0.05). Therefore, dietary FSB improved CP digestibility by increasing the relative abundance of ileac f_Lactobacillaceae and Lactobacillus, while dietary MFSM benefited TC digestibility by increasing f_Peptostreptococcaceae and Romboutsia. Dietary MFSM and FM enhanced immunoglobulin secretion by increasing colonic f_Streptococcaceae and Streptococcus prevalence, while dietary FSB promoted cytokine production by increasing microbiota diversity and Romboutsia and Christensenellaceae. Our data provide a theoretical dietary basis for young animals using plant and animal protein sources.

Medicinal Plants and Their Impact on the Gut Microbiome in Mental Health: A Systematic Review

Background: Various neurocognitive and mental health-related conditions have been associated with the gut microbiome, implicating a microbiome–gut–brain axis (MGBA). The aim of this systematic review was to identify, categorize, and review clinical evidence supporting medicinal plants for the treatment of mental disorders and studies on their interactions with the gut microbiota. Methods: This review included medicinal plants for which clinical studies on depression, sleeping disorders, anxiety, or cognitive dysfunction as well as scientific evidence of interaction with the gut microbiome were available. The studies were reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Results: Eighty-five studies met the inclusion criteria and covered thirty mental health-related medicinal plants with data on interaction with the gut microbiome. Conclusion: Only a few studies have been specifically designed to assess how herbal preparations affect MGBA-related targets or pathways. However, many studies provide hints of a possible interaction with the MGBA, such as an increased abundance of health-beneficial microorganisms, anti-inflammatory effects, or MGBA-related pathway effects by gut microbial metabolites. Data for Panax ginseng, Schisandra chinensis, and Salvia rosmarinus indicate that the interaction of their constituents with the gut microbiota could mediate mental health benefits. Studies specifically assessing the effects on MGBA-related pathways are still required for most medicinal plants.

Intake of Natural, Unprocessed Tiger Nuts (Cyperus esculentus L.) Drink Significantly Favors Intestinal Beneficial Bacteria in a Short Period of Time

Horchata is a natural drink obtained from tiger nut tubers (Cyperus esculentus L.). It has a pleasant milky aspect and nutty flavor; some health benefits have been traditionally attributed to it. This study evaluated the effects of an unprocessed horchata drink on the gut microbiota of healthy adult volunteers (n = 31) who consumed 300 mL of natural, unprocessed horchata with no added sugar daily for 3 days. Although there were no apparent microbial profile changes induced by horchata consumption in the studied population, differences could be determined when volunteers were segmented by microbial clusters. Three distinctive enterogroups were identified previous to consuming horchata, respectively characterized by the relative abundances of Blautia and Lachnospira (B1), Bacteroides (B2) and Ruminococcus and Bifidobacterium (B3). After consuming horchata, samples of all volunteers were grouped into two clusters, one enriched in Akkermansia, Christenellaceae and Clostridiales (A1) and the other with a remarkable presence of Faecalibacterium, Bifidobacterium and Lachnospira (A2). Interestingly, the impact of horchata was dependent on the previous microbiome of each individual, and its effect yielded microbial profiles associated with butyrate production, which are typical of a Mediterranean or vegetable/fiber-rich diet and could be related to the presence of high amylose starch and polyphenols.

Riboflavin Bioenriched Soymilk Alleviates Oxidative Stress Mediated Liver Injury, Intestinal Inflammation, and Gut Microbiota Modification in B2 Depletion-Repletion Mice

Epidemiological evidence emphasizes that ariboflavinosis can lead to oxidative stress, which in turn may mediate the initiation and progression of liver injury and intestinal inflammation. Although vitamin B₂ has gained worldwide attention for its antioxidant defense, the relationship between B₂ status, oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and intestinal homeostasis remains indistinct. Herein, we developed a B₂ depletion-repletion BALB/c mice model to investigate the ameliorative effects of B₂ bioenriched fermented soymilk (B₂FS) on ariboflavinosis, accompanied by oxidative stress, inflammation, and gut microbiota modulation in response to B₂ deficiency. In vivo results revealed that the phenotypic ariboflavinosis symptoms, growth rate, EGRAC status, and hepatic function reverted to normal after B₂FS supplementation. B₂FS significantly elevated CAT, SOD, T-AOC, and compromised MDA levels in the serum, simultaneously up-regulated Nrf2, CAT, and SOD2, and down-regulated Keap1 gene in the colon. The histopathological characteristics revealed significant alleviation in the liver and intestinal inflammation, confirmed by the downregulation of inflammatory (IL-1β and IL-6) and nuclear transcription (NF-κB) factors after B₂FS supplementation. B₂FS also increased the abundance and diversity of gut microbiota, increased the relative abundance of Prevotella and Absiella, as well as decreased Proteobacteria, Fusobacteria, Synergistetes, and Cyanobacteria in strong conjunction with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties, and gut homeostasis along with the remarkable increase in cecal SCFAs content. We hereby reveal that B₂FS can effectively alleviate deleterious ariboflavinosis associated with oxidative stress mediated liver injury, chronic intestinal inflammation, and gut dysbiosis in the B₂ depletion-repletion mice model via activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Effect of Dietary Protein and Processing on Gut Microbiota-A Systematic Review

The effect of diet on the composition of gut microbiota and the consequent impact on disease risk have been of expanding interest. The present review focuses on current insights of changes associated with dietary protein-induced gut microbial populations and examines their potential roles in the metabolism, health, and disease of animals. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) protocol was used, and 29 highly relevant articles were obtained, which included 6 mouse studies, 7 pig studies, 15 rat studies, and 1 in vitro study. Analysis of these studies indicated that several factors, such as protein source, protein content, dietary composition (such as carbohydrate content), glycation of protein, processing factors, and protein oxidation, affect the digestibility and bioavailability of dietary proteins. These factors can influence protein fermentation, absorption, and functional properties in the gut and, consequently, impact the composition of gut microbiota and affect human health. While gut microbiota can release metabolites that can affect host physiology either positively or negatively, the selection of quality of protein and suitable food processing conditions are important to have a positive effect of dietary protein on gut microbiota and human health.

Overtraining Syndrome as a Complex Systems Phenomenon

The phenomenon of reduced athletic performance following sustained, intense training (Overtraining Syndrome, and OTS) was first recognized more than 90 years ago. Although hundreds of scientific publications have focused on OTS, a definitive diagnosis, reliable biomarkers, and effective treatments remain unknown. The present review considers existing models of OTS, acknowledges the individualized and sport-specific nature of signs/symptoms, describes potential interacting predisposing factors, and proposes that OTS will be most effectively characterized and evaluated via the underlying complex biological systems. Complex systems in nature are not aptly characterized or successfully analyzed using the classic scientific method (i.e., simplifying complex problems into single variables in a search for cause-and-effect) because they result from myriad (often non-linear) concomitant interactions of multiple determinants. Thus, this review 1) proposes that OTS be viewed from the perspectives of complex systems and network physiology, 2) advocates for and recommends that techniques such as trans-omic analyses and machine learning be widely employed, and 3) proposes evidence-based areas for future OTS investigations, including concomitant multi-domain analyses incorporating brain neural networks, dysfunction of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal responses to training stress, the intestinal microbiota, immune factors, and low energy availability. Such an inclusive and modern approach will measurably help in prevention and management of OTS.

Different Effects of Soy and Whey on Linear Bone Growth and Growth Pattern in Young Male Sprague-Dawley Rats

The aim of this investigation was to determine the better protein for supporting optimal linear growth, as the exact composition and benefits of specific dietary proteins in supporting linear growth is unknown. In the current study, we compared the effect of soy and whey proteins, both proteins contain all essential amino acids and are considered the best proteins in their categories. Young male rats were subjected to multiple feeding protocols using iso-energetic diets containing soy or whey as the sole protein source. The rats were allowed to eat ad libitum for 11, 24, or 74 days in the first set of experiments, and the soy group was pair-fed to the whey group in the second set. The differences in weight gain, food consumption, and humeri length of the soy group that were greater at the beginning of the ad libitum experiments lessened over time. Pair-fed experiments revealed that the increased weight and humeri length resulted from the differences in food consumption. However, other parameters were protein specific. Bone quality, which was better in the soy group at 24 days, was matched by the whey group and even surpassed that of the soy group in the long-term experiment, with a significantly greater bone mineral density, cortical thickness, and growth plate. Although in the short term the levels of insulin like growth factor (IGF)-I were similar between the groups, IGF-I increased with age in the whey group, and the levels at the long-term experiment were significantly higher compared to the soy group. Furthermore, using the pair fed setup made it clear that when the difference in food consumption were no longer playing part, whey was more efficient in increasing IGF-I. There were no indications of metabolic sequelae. Although the use of soy is gaining in popularity as a sustainable protein, our findings indicate a better effect of whey on linear growth by leading to slower growth with better-organized epiphyseal growth plates and bone quality.

The association between soy-based food and soy isoflavone intake and the risk of gastric cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Soy contains many bioactive phytochemicals, such as isoflavones, which have the effect of preventing many cancers. Some studies have shown the beneficial effect of soy-based food and isoflavone intake on gastric cancer (GC), while others claimed no effect. Therefore, whether the beneficial effect of soy-based food is related to its fermentation or whether its protective effect comes from isoflavones still remains inconclusive. Our aim was to investigate the relationship between total soybean, fermented soybean, non-fermented soybean and isoflavone intake, and the risk of GC. Ten cohort studies and 21 case-control studies involving 916 354 participants were included. The association between soy-based food and isoflavone intake and the risk of GC was calculated with the pooled relative risks (RRs) for the highest versus lowest intake categories. The results showed that isoflavone intake might be a protective factor to GC, but the result was not statistically significant (RR = 0.92; 95% CI: 0.79-1.07). However, total soybean intake could significantly decrease the risk of GC by 36% (RR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.51-0.80), which might be credited to non-fermented soybean products (RR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.71-0.87). In contrast, high intake of fermented soybean products could increase the risk of GC (RR = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.02-1.38). High intake of total soybean and non-fermented soybean products could reduce the risk of GC, and high intake of fermented soybean products could increase the risk, which indicated that the beneficial effect of soy-based food might be related to its non-fermentation. However, high intake of isoflavones may not be associated with the incidence of GC. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Flavonoids from Whole-Grain Oat Alleviated High-Fat Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemia via Regulating Bile Acid Metabolism and Gut Microbiota in Mice

A high-fat diet (HFD) causes hyperlipidemia, which worsens disturbances in bile acid (BA) metabolism and gut microbiota. This study aimed to investigate the regulation of flavonoids from whole-grain oat (FO) on BA metabolism and gut microbiota in HFD-induced hyperlipidemic mice. The experiment results showed that FO improved serum lipid profiles and decreased body weight and lipid deposition in HFD-fed mice. Through real-time qualitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot assays, by up-regulating the expression of PPARα, CPT-1, CYP7A1, FXR, TGR5, NTCP, and BSTP, and down-regulating those of SREBP-1c, FAS, and ASBT, FO suppressed lipogenesis, promoted lipolysis and BA synthesis, and efflux to faeces via the FXR pathway. 16s rRNA sequencing revealed that FO significantly increased Akkermansia and significantly decreased Lachnoclostridium, Blautia, Colidextribacter, and Desulfovibrio. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that these bacteria were strongly correlated with hyperlipidemia-related parameters. Therefore, our results indicated that FO possessed an antihyperlipidemic effect via regulating the gut-liver axis, i.e., BA metabolism and gut microbiota.

Do Bioactive Food Compound with Avena sativa L., Linum usitatissimum L. and Glycine max L. Supplementation with Moringa oleifera Lam. Have a Role against Nutritional Disorders? An Overview of the In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence

Functional clinical nutrition is an integrative science; it uses dietary strategies, functional foods and medicinal plants, as well as combinations thereof. Both functional foods and medicinal plants, whether associated or not, form nutraceuticals, which can bring benefits to health, in addition to being included in the prevention and treatment of diseases. Some functional food effects from Avena sativa L. (oats), Linum usitatissimum L. (brown flaxseed), Glycine max L. (soya) and Moringa oleifera have been proposed for nutritional disorders through in vitro and in vivo tests. A formulation called a bioactive food compound (BFC) showed efficiency in the association of oats, flaxseed and soy for dyslipidemia and obesity. In this review, we discuss the effects of BFC in other nutritional disorders, as well as the beneficial effects of M. oleifera in obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type 2, metabolic syndrome, intestinal inflammatory diseases/colorectal carcinogenesis and malnutrition. In addition, we hypothesized that a BFC enriched with M. oleifera could present a synergistic effect and play a potential benefit in nutritional disorders. The traditional consumption of M. oleifera preparations can allow associations with other formulations, such as BFC. These nutraceutical formulations can be easily accepted and can be used in sweet preparations (fruit and/or vegetable juices, fruit and/or vegetable vitamins, porridges, yogurt, cream, mousses or fruit salads, cakes and cookies) or savory (vegetable purees, soups, broths and various sauces), cooked or not. These formulations can be low-cost and easy-to-use. The association of bioactive food substances in dietary formulations can facilitate adherence to consumption and, thus, contribute to the planning of future nutritional interventions for the prevention and adjuvant treatment of the clinical conditions presented in this study. This can be extended to the general population. However, an investigation through clinical studies is needed to prove applicability in humans.

Derivatization of Soyasapogenol A through Microbial Transformation for Potential Anti-inflammatory Food Supplements

For the optimum use of soyasaponins isolated from soybean cake and to explore the potential anti-inflammatory agents from pentacyclic triterpenes as natural food supplements, microbial transformation of soyasapogenol A was carried out. Four strains of microbes, including Bacillus megaterium CGMCC 1.1741, Penicillium griseofulvum CICC 40293, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, and Streptomyces griseus ATCC 13273, showed robust catalytic capacity to the substrate. Preparative biotransformation and column chromatographic purification led to the isolation of 10 novel and 1 reported metabolites. The structure elucidation was performed using 1D/2D NMR and HR-ESI-MS analytical method. Several novel tailoring reactions, such as allyl oxidation, C-C double bond rearrangement, hydroxylation, dehydrogenation, and glycosylation, were observed in the biotransformation. In the follow-up bioassay, most of the metabolites exhibited low cytotoxicity and potent inhibitory activity against the production of nitric oxide (NO) in RAW 264.7 cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharide. Especially compound 6 (3-oxo-11α,21β,22β,24-tetrahydroxy-olean-12-ene) showed comparable activity to the positive control of quercetin with an IC₅₀ value of 16.70 μM. These findings provided an experimental approach to achieve the derivatization of natural aglycons in soybeans through microbial transformation for developing potent anti-inflammatory food supplements.

Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Properties of Fermented Plant Foods

Fermented plant foods are gaining wide interest worldwide as healthy foods due to their unique sensory features and their health-promoting potentials, such as antiobesity, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and anticarcinogenic activities. Many fermented foods are a rich source of nutrients, phytochemicals, bioactive compounds, and probiotic microbes. The excellent biological activities of these functional foods, such as anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory functions, are widely attributable to their high antioxidant content and lactic acid-producing bacteria (LAB). LAB contribute to the maintenance of a healthy gut microbiota composition and improvement of local and systemic immunity. Besides, antioxidant compounds are involved in several functional properties of fermented plant products by neutralizing free radicals, regulating antioxidant enzyme activities, reducing oxidative stress, ameliorating inflammatory responses, and enhancing immune system performance. Therefore, these products may protect against chronic inflammatory diseases, which are known as the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Given that a large body of evidence supports the role of fermented plant foods in health promotion and disease prevention, we aim to discuss the potential anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of selected fermented plant foods, including berries, cabbage, and soybean products, and their effects on gut microbiota.

Bioconversion of soy under the influence of Aspergillus oryzae strains producing hydrolytic enzymes

Introduction. The fungus Aspergillus oryzae is widely used in the production of fermented soy-based products. However, there is little data on how its genetic characteristics affect the biochemical and fractional composition of protein substances during fermentation and the quality of fermented products. This study aimed to investigate the conversion of soy meal under the influence of two A. oryzae strains with different morphological and cultural properties during the production of a fermented soy sauce. Study objects and methods. The study used two A. oryzae strains, RCAM 01133 and RCAM 01134, which were isolated from the industrial F-931 strain (Russian Collection of Industrial Microorganisms), a producer of hydrolytic enzymes. Micromycetes were cultivated by a solid-phase method on soy meal, followed by dry fermentation. The results were analyzed with regard to accumulation of amine nitrogen, bound and free amino acids, proteins and carbohydrates. Results and discussion. The cultivation of micromycetes resulted in a 35–38% increase in protein, a tenfold increase in free amino acids, and a 1.5–1.7 fold decrease in polysaccharides. The contents of essential amino acids in the fermented soy sauce were 1.7 and 1.2 times as high as in the initial medium (soy meal) and in the reference protein, respectively. Fermentation enhanced the biological value of proteins, increasing the amino acid scores of phenylalanine (7.3–7.7 times), phenylalanine (2 times), as well as valine, threonine, tryptophan, and lysine. The contents of protein and essential amino acids were slightly higher in the sauce with the RCAM 01133 strain. Conclusion. Fermenting soy materials with the RCAM 01133 strain of A. oryzae is an alternative way to produce food ingredients with good sensory properties containing carbohydrates and biologically complete protein in easily digestible forms.

Effects of pine pollen wall on gut microbiota and biomarkers in mice with dyslipidemia

Pinus yunnanensis pollen is rich in various physiological functions. However, whether the pine pollen wall (PW) plays a beneficial role in the body has not been studied. In this work, we have analyzed its effects on the metabolism and gut microbiota of mouse models of dyslipidemia. We found that the intake of pine PW prevents the liver pathologic changes and reduce the concentrations of TNF-α, IL-6, TC, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Moreover, it can regulate bile acid and fat metabolism, SCFAs content, and the structure of the gut microbiota. According to the change of carbohydrate metabolites, we speculated that cellulose should be the main component to play the above beneficial role, and sporopollenin cannot be utilized in the intestine. Therefore, we consider this study of great significance as it gives a description of biological effects of the pine PW and paves the road to its use in health products.

Endocrine disrupting chemicals in the pathogenesis of hypospadias; developmental and toxicological perspectives

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Penis development is regulated by a tight balance of androgens and estrogens.

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EDCs that impact androgen/estrogen balance during development cause hypospadias.

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Cross-disciplinary collaborations are needed to define a mechanistic link.

Hypospadias is a defect in penile urethral closure that occurs in approximately 1/150 live male births in developed nations, making it one of the most common congenital abnormalities worldwide. Alarmingly, the frequency of hypospadias has increased rapidly over recent decades and is continuing to rise. Recent research reviewed herein suggests that the rise in hypospadias rates can be directly linked to our increasing exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), especially those that affect estrogen and androgen signalling. Understanding the mechanistic links between endocrine disruptors and hypospadias requires toxicologists and developmental biologists to define exposures and biological impacts on penis development. In this review we examine recent insights from toxicological, developmental and epidemiological studies on the hormonal control of normal penis development and describe the rationale and evidence for EDC exposures that impact these pathways to cause hypospadias. Continued collaboration across these fields is imperative to understand the full impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals on the increasing rates of hypospadias.

Replacing Animal Protein with Soy-Pea Protein in an "American Diet" Controls Murine Crohn Disease-Like Ileitis Regardless of Firmicutes: Bacteroidetes Ratio

BACKGROUND

The current nutritional composition of the "American diet" (AD; also known as Western diet) has been linked to the increasing incidence of chronic diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), namely Crohn disease (CD).

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated which of the 3 major macronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrates) in the AD has the greatest impact on preventing chronic inflammation in experimental IBD mouse models.

METHODS

We compared 5 rodent diets designed to mirror the 2011-2012 "What We Eat in America" NHANES. Each diet had 1 macronutrient dietary source replaced. The formulated diets were AD, AD-soy-pea (animal protein replaced by soy + pea protein), AD-CHO ("refined carbohydrate" by polysaccharides), AD-fat [redistribution of the ω-6:ω-3 (n-6:n-3) PUFA ratio; ∼10:1 to 1:1], and AD-mix (all 3 "healthier" macronutrients combined). In 3 separate experiments, 8-wk-old germ-free SAMP1/YitFC mice (SAMP) colonized with human gut microbiota ("hGF-SAMP") from CD or healthy donors were fed an AD, an AD-"modified," or laboratory rodent diet for 24 wk. Two subsequent dextran sodium sulfate-colitis experiments in hGF-SAMP (12-wk-old) and specific-pathogen-free (SPF) C57BL/6 (20-wk-old) mice, and a 6-wk feeding trial in 24-wk-old SPF SAMP were performed. Intestinal inflammation, gut metagenomics, and MS profiles were assessed.

RESULTS

The AD-soy-pea diet resulted in lower histology scores [mean ± SD (56.1% ± 20.7% reduction)] in all feeding trials and IBD mouse models than did other diets (P < 0.05). Compared with the AD, the AD-soy-pea correlated with increased abundance in Lactobacillaceae and Leuconostraceae (1.5-4.7 log2 and 3.0-5.1 log2 difference, respectively), glutamine (6.5 ± 0.8 compared with 3.9 ± 0.3 ng/μg stool, P = 0.0005) and butyric acid (4:0; 3.3 ± 0.5 compared with 2.54 ± 0.4 ng/μg stool, P = 0.006) concentrations, and decreased linoleic acid (18:2n-6; 5.4 ± 0.4 compared with 8.6 ± 0.3 ng/μL plasma, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Replacement of animal protein in an AD by plant-based sources reduced the severity of experimental IBD in all mouse models studied, suggesting that similar, feasible adjustments to the daily human diet could help control/prevent IBD in humans.

Anti-obesity effects of α-amylase inhibitor enriched-extract from white common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) associated with the modulation of gut microbiota composition in high-fat diet-induced obese rats

α-Amylase inhibitors (α-AI) have great potential to treat obesity. In this study, an α-AI enriched extract (α-AIE) with a specific activity of 1027.1 ± 154.2 (U per mg protein) was prepared from white common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) seeds. Its anti-obesity effect and gut microbiota modulation properties were verified in high-fat diet-induced obese rats. The intake of the α-AIE significantly reduced body weight gain and improved serum lipid levels (p < 0.05). In addition, rats fed the α-AIE diet exhibited higher total short-chain fatty-acid (SCFA) concentrations (p < 0.05) in their colonic contents. β-Diversity analysis, principal component analysis and a Venn diagram showed that α-AIE administration changed the gut microbiota composition. At the phylum level, the relative abundances of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria decreased and the relative abundances of Bacteroidetes and Akkermansia increased. In addition, 89 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) significantly responding to the high-fat diet and 30 OTUs significantly responding to the α-AIE were identified. The OTUs enriched by the α-AIE were mainly assigned to putative SCFA-producing bacteria, including Bacteroides, Butyricoccus, Blautia and Eubacterium. Twenty-two OTUs were found to be significantly correlated with obesity indexes. Taken together, the present results suggest that the intake of the α-AIE attenuated obesity and modulated gut microbiota.