Gastrointestinal inflammation by gut microbiota disturbance induces memory impairment in mice

Age-dependent sex differences in cofilin1 pathway (LIMK1/SSH1) and its association with AD biomarkers after chronic systemic inflammation in mice

Chronic systemic inflammation (CSI) results in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Cofilin1 is a stress protein that activates microglia and induces neuroinflammation, but its role in CSI at different aging stages remains unidentified. Therefore, the study aims to identify cofilin1 and its upstream regulators LIMK1 and SSH1 after CSI in young-, middle-, and advanced-aged mice. CSI was induced by injecting the male and female mice with a sub-lethal dose of Lipopolysaccharide weekly for six weeks. The results showed that normal male mice did not show cofilin pathway dysregulation, but a significant dysregulation was observed in CSI advanced-aged mice. In females, cofilin1 dysregulation was observed in healthy and CSI advanced-aged mice, while significant cofilin1 dysregulation was observed in middle-aged mice during CSI. Furthermore, cofilin1 pathway dysregulations correlated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers in the brain and saliva, astrocyte activation, synaptic degeneration, neurobehavioral impairments, gut-microbiota abnormalities, and circulatory inflammation. These results provide new insights into cofilin1 sex and age-dependent mechanistic differences that might help identify targets for modulating neuroinflammation and early onset of AD.

Motor, mood, and memory impairments persist during remission periods in chronic colitis and are influenced by neuroinflammation and sex

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic pathology characterized by relapsing-remitting phases of intestinal inflammation. Additionally, some patients develop neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety, or cognitive deficits. We aimed to investigate whether the development of chronic colitis elicits memory, locomotion, and mood impairments. It further examined whether these impairments are influenced by the relapsing-remitting phases of the colitis or by sex. Here, we used a chronic colitis model in male and female rats, induced with sodium dextran sulfate, mirroring the phases of human ulcerative colitis. Our results revealed that the severity of colitis was slightly higher in males than females. Chronic colitis triggered motor and short-term memory deficits and induced anxiety- and depression-like behaviors that remained throughout the development of the disease. There are also sex differences under control or inflammatory conditions. Therefore, in both situations, females compared to males displayed: (i) slightly lower locomotion, (ii) increased anxiety-like behaviors, (iii) similar depression-like behaviors, and (iv) similar short-term memory deficit. Additionally, under control conditions, the mRNA levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were higher in the female hippocampus. In both sexes, when chronic colitis was established, the neuroinflammation was evidenced by increased mRNA levels of these three cytokines in the hippocampus and in the motor and prefrontal cortices. Interestingly, this neuroinflammation was slightly greater in males. In summary, we show that the development of chronic colitis caused persistent behavioral abnormalities, highlighting sex differences, and that could be a consequence, at least in part, of the increase in IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the brain.

Unlocking the possibilities of therapeutic potential of silymarin and silibinin against neurodegenerative Diseases-A mechanistic overview

Silymarin, a bioflavonoid derived from the Silybum marianum plant, was discovered in 1960. It contains C25 and has been extensively used as a therapeutic agent against liver-related diseases caused by alcohol addiction, acute viral hepatitis, and toxins-inducing liver failure. Its efficacy stems from its role as a potent anti-oxidant and scavenger of free radicals, employed through various mechanisms. Additionally, silymarin or silybin possesses immunomodulatory characteristics, impacting immune-enhancing and immune-suppressive functions. Recently, silymarin has been recognized as a potential neuroprotective therapy for various neurological conditions, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, along with conditions related to cerebral ischemia. Its hepatoprotective qualities, primarily due to its anti-oxidant and tissue-regenerating properties, are well-established. Silymarin also enhances health by modifying processes such as inflammation, β-amyloid accumulation, cellular estrogenic receptor mediation, and apoptotic machinery. While believed to reduce oxidative stress and support neuroprotective mechanisms, these effects represent just one aspect of the compound's multifaceted protective action. This review article further delves into the possibilities of potential therapeutic advancement of silymarin and silibinin for the management of neurodegenerative disorders via mechanics modules.

Alzheimer's disease-related presenilins are key to intestinal epithelial cell function and gut immune homoeostasis

OBJECTIVE

Mutations in presenilin genes are the major cause of Alzheimer's disease. However, little is known about their expression and function in the gut. In this study, we identify the presenilins Psen1 and Psen2 as key molecules that maintain intestinal homoeostasis.

DESIGN

Human inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and control samples were analysed for Psen1 expression. Newly generated intestinal epithelium-specific Psen1-deficient, Psen2-deficient and inducible Psen1/Psen2 double-deficient mice were used to dissect the functional role of presenilins in intestinal homoeostasis.

RESULTS

Psen1 expression was regulated in experimental gut inflammation and in patients with IBD. Induced deletion of Psen1 and Psen2 in mice caused rapid weight loss and spontaneous development of intestinal inflammation. Mice exhibited epithelial barrier disruption with bacterial translocation and deregulation of key pathways for nutrient uptake. Wasting disease was independent of gut inflammation and dysbiosis, as depletion of microbiota rescued Psen-deficient animals from spontaneous colitis development but not from weight loss. On a molecular level, intestinal epithelial cells lacking Psen showed impaired Notch signalling and dysregulated epithelial differentiation.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our study provides evidence that Psen1 and Psen2 are important guardians of intestinal homoeostasis and future targets for barrier-promoting therapeutic strategies in IBD.

Gut Microbiota and Probiotics in Perioperative Management: A Narrative Review

The human gut is the abode of several complex and diverse microbes. It is a fact that the human brain is interconnected with the spinal cord and sense organs; however, there is also a possibility of a connection between the brain and the gut microbiome. The human gut can be altered in various ways, the principal method being the intake of prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics. Can this alteration in the gut microbiome be clinically utilised in the perioperative period? We conducted a literature search related to this topic using databases and search engines (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online {MEDLINE}, Embase, Scopus, PubMed and Google Scholar). The search revealed some preclinical and clinical studies in animals and humans that demonstrate the alteration of the gut microbiome with the use of anxiolysis, probiotics/prebiotics and other perioperative factors including opioids, anaesthetics and perioperative stress. The significant effects of this alteration have been seen on preoperative anxiety and postoperative delirium/cognitive dysfunction/pain. These effects are described in this narrative review, which opens up newer vistas for high-quality research related to the gut microbiome, gut-brain axis, the related signaling pathways and their clinical application in the perioperative period.

The brain-gut axis: communication mechanisms and the role of the microbiome as a neuroprotective factor in the development of neurodegenerative diseases: A literature overview

The study of the brain-gut axis and its impact on cognitive function and in the development of neurodegenerative diseases is a very timely topic of interest to researchers. This review summarizes information on the basic mechanisms of gut-brain communication. We then discuss the roles of the gut microbiome as a neuroprotective factor in neurodegeneration. The gut microbiota is extremely important in maintaining the body's homeostasis, shaping the human immune system and the proper functioning of the brain. The intestinal microflora affects the processes of neuroplasticity, synaptogenesis, and neuronal regeneration. This review aims to explain changes in the composition of the bacterial population of the intestinal microflora among patients with Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Abnormalities in gut microflora composition are also noted in stress, depression, or autism spectrum development. New observations on psychobiotic supplementation in alleviating the symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases are also presented.

Heat-Processed Soybean Germ Extract and Lactobacillus gasseri NK109 Supplementation Reduce LPS-Induced Cognitive Impairment and Colitis in Mice

Soybean alleviates cognitive impairment. In our preparatory experiment, we found that dry-heat (90 °C for 30 min)-processed soybean embryo ethanol extract (hSE) most potently suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α expression in BV2 cells among dry-heat-, steaming-, and oil exclusion-processed soybean embryo ethanol extracts (SEs). Heat processing increased the absorbable soyasaponin Bb content of SE. Therefore, we investigated whether hSE and its supplement could mitigate LPS-impaired cognitive function in mice. Among dry-heat-, steaming-, and oil exclusion-processed SEs, hSE mitigated LPS-impaired cognitive function more than parental SE. hSE potently upregulated LPS-suppressed brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) expression in the hippocampus, while LPS-induced TNF-α and IL-1β expression in the hippocampus and colon were downregulated. Lactobacillus gasseri NK109 additively increased the cognitive function-enhancing activity of hSE in mice with LPS-induced cognitive impairment as follows: the hSE and NK109 mix potently increased cognitive function and hippocampal BDNF expression and BDNF-positive neuron cell numbers and decreased TNF-α expression and NF-κB-positive cell numbers in the hippocampus and colon. These findings suggest that hSE and its supplement may decrease colitis and neuroinflammation by suppressing NF-κB activation and inducing BDNF expression, resulting in the attenuation of cognitive impairment.

Microbiota-Derived Extracellular Vesicle as Emerging Actors in Host Interactions

The human microbiota is an intricate micro-ecosystem comprising a diverse range of dynamic microbial populations mainly consisting of bacteria, whose interactions with hosts strongly affect several physiological and pathological processes. The gut microbiota is being increasingly recognized as a critical player in maintaining homeostasis, contributing to the main functions of the intestine and distal organs such as the brain. However, gut dysbiosis, characterized by composition and function alterations of microbiota with intestinal barrier dysfunction has been linked to the development and progression of several pathologies, including intestinal inflammatory diseases, systemic autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatic arthritis, and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, oral microbiota research has gained significant interest in recent years due to its potential impact on overall health. Emerging evidence on the role of microbiota-host interactions in health and disease has triggered a marked interest on the functional role of bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs) as mediators of inter-kingdom communication. Accumulating evidence reveals that BEVs mediate host interactions by transporting and delivering into host cells effector molecules that modulate host signaling pathways and cell processes, influencing health and disease. This review discusses the critical role of BEVs from the gut, lung, skin and oral cavity in the epithelium, immune system, and CNS interactions.

Assessment of optimal combinations of therapeutic probiotics for depression, anxiety, and stress

BACKGROUND

Accumulating data show that probiotics may be beneficial for reducing depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms. However, the best combinations and species of probiotics have not been identified. The objective of our study was to assess the most effective combinations and components of different probiotics through network meta-analysis.

METHOD

A systematic search of four databases, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Embase, was conducted from inception to 11 January 2024. The GRADE framework was used to assess the quality of evidence contributing to each network estimate.

RESULTS

We deemed 45 trials eligible, these included 4053 participants and 10 types of interventions. The quality of evidence was rated as high or moderate. The NMA revealed that Bifidobacterium exhibited a greater probability of being the optimal probiotic species for improving anxiety symptoms (SMD = -0.80; 95% CI -1.49 to -0.11), followed by Lactobacillus (SMD = -0.49; 95% CI -0.85 to -0.12). In addition, for multiple strains, compared with the other interventions, Lactobacillus + Bifidobacterium (SMD = -0.41; 95% CI -0.73 to -0.10) had a positive effect on depression.

CONCLUSION

The NMA revealed that Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium had prominent efficacy in the treatment of individuals with anxiety, depression, and combination of Lactobacillus + Bifidobacterium had a similar effect. With few direct comparisons available between probiotic species, this NMA may be instrumental in shaping the guidelines for probiotic treatment of psychological disorders.

Gut bacteria exacerbates TNBS-induced colitis and kidney injury through oxidative stress

Gut microbiota has been implicated in the initiation and progression of various diseases; however, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive and effective therapeutic strategies are scarce. In this study, we investigated the role and mechanisms of gut microbiota in TNBS-induced colitis and its associated kidney injury while evaluating the potential of dietary protein as a therapeutic intervention. The intrarectal administration of TNBS induced colitis in mice, concurrently with kidney damage. Interestingly, this effect was absent when TNBS was administered intraperitoneally, indicating a potential role of gut microbiota. Depletion of gut bacteria with antibiotics significantly attenuated the severity of TNBS-induced inflammation, oxidative damage, and tissue injury in the colon and kidneys. Mechanistic investigations using cultured colon epithelial cells and bone-marrow macrophages unveiled that TNBS induced cell oxidation, inflammation and injury, which was amplified by the bacterial component LPS and mitigated by thiol antioxidants. Importantly, in vivo administration of thiol-rich whey protein entirely prevented TNBS-induced colonic and kidney injury. Our findings suggest that gut bacteria significantly contribute to the initiation and progression of colitis and associated kidney injury, potentially through mechanisms involving LPS-induced exaggeration of oxidative cellular damage. Furthermore, our research highlights the potential of dietary thiol antioxidants as preventive and therapeutic interventions.

A comprehensive review on the progress and challenges of tetrahydroisoquinoline derivatives as a promising therapeutic agent to treat Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common and irreversible neurodegenerative disorder worldwide. While the precise mechanism behind this rapid progression and multifaceted disease remains unknown, the numerous drawbacks of the available therapies are prevalent, necessitating effective alternative treatment methods. In view of the rising demand for effective AD treatment, numerous reports have shown that tetrahydroisoquinoline (THIQ) is a valuable scaffold in various clinical medicinal molecules and has a promising potential as a therapeutic agent in treating AD due to its significant neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative properties via several mechanisms that target the altered signaling pathways. Therefore, this review comprehensively outlines the potential application of THIQ derivatives in AD treatment and the challenges in imparting the action of these prospective therapeutic agents. The review emphasizes a number of THIQ derivatives, including Dauricine, jatrorrhizine, 1MeTIQ, and THICAPA, that have been incorporated in AD studies in recent years. Subsequently, a dedicated section of the review briefly discusses the emerging potential benefits of multi-target therapeutics, which lie in their ability to be integrated with alternative therapeutics. Eventually, this review elaborates on the rising challenges and future recommendations for the development of therapeutic drug agents to treat AD effectively. In essence, the valuable research insights of THIQ derivatives presented in this comprehensive review would serve as an integral reference for future studies to develop potent therapeutic drugs for AD research.

The Emerging Role of Human Gut Bacteria Extracellular Vesicles in Mental Disorders and Developing New Pharmaceuticals

In recent years, further evidence has emerged regarding the involvement of extracellular vesicles in various human physiopathological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and mental disorders. The biogenesis and cargo of such vesicles may reveal their impact on human health nd disease and set the underpinnings for the development of novel chemical compounds and pharmaceuticals. In this review, we examine the link between bacteria-derived exosomes in the gastrointestinal tract and mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety disorders. Crucially, we focus on whether changes in the gut environment affect the human mental state or the other way around. Furthermore, the possibility of handling bacteria-derived exosomes as vectors of chemicals to treat such conditions is examined.

A leaky gut dysregulates gene networks in the brain associated with immune activation, oxidative stress, and myelination in a mouse model of colitis

The gut and brain are increasingly linked in human disease, with neuropsychiatric conditions classically attributed to the brain showing an involvement of the intestine and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) displaying an ever-expanding list of neurological comorbidities. To identify molecular systems that underpin this gut-brain connection and thus discover therapeutic targets, experimental models of gut dysfunction must be evaluated for brain effects. In the present study, we examine disturbances along the gut-brain axis in a widely used murine model of colitis, the dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) model, using high-throughput transcriptomics and an unbiased network analysis strategy coupled with standard biochemical outcome measures to achieve a comprehensive approach to identify key disease processes in both colon and brain. We examine the reproducibility of colitis induction with this model and its resulting genetic programs during different phases of disease, finding that DSS-induced colitis is largely reproducible with a few site-specific molecular features. We focus on the circulating immune system as the intermediary between the gut and brain, which exhibits an activation of pro-inflammatory innate immunity during colitis. Our unbiased transcriptomics analysis provides supporting evidence for immune activation in the brain during colitis, suggests that myelination may be a process vulnerable to increased intestinal permeability, and identifies a possible role for oxidative stress and brain oxygenation. Overall, we provide a comprehensive evaluation of multiple systems in a prevalent experimental model of intestinal permeability, which will inform future studies using this model and others, assist in the identification of druggable targets in the gut-brain axis, and contribute to our understanding of the concomitance of intestinal and neuropsychiatric dysfunction.

Immune regulation of the gut-brain axis and lung-brain axis involved in ischemic stroke

Local ischemia often causes a series of inflammatory reactions when both brain immune cells and the peripheral immune response are activated. In the human body, the gut and lung are regarded as the key reactional targets that are initiated by brain ischemic attacks. Mucosal microorganisms play an important role in immune regulation and metabolism and affect blood-brain barrier permeability. In addition to the relationship between peripheral organs and central areas and the intestine and lung also interact among each other. Here, we review the molecular and cellular immune mechanisms involved in the pathways of inflammation across the gut-brain axis and lung-brain axis. We found that abnormal intestinal flora, the intestinal microenvironment, lung infection, chronic diseases, and mechanical ventilation can worsen the outcome of ischemic stroke. This review also introduces the influence of the brain on the gut and lungs after stroke, highlighting the bidirectional feedback effect among the gut, lungs, and brain.

Role of Inflammatory Mechanisms in Major Depressive Disorder: From Etiology to Potential Pharmacological Targets

The involvement of central and peripheral inflammation in the pathogenesis and prognosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) has been demonstrated. The increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-18, and TNF-α) in individuals with depression may elicit neuroinflammatory processes and peripheral inflammation, mechanisms that, in turn, can contribute to gut microbiota dysbiosis. Together, neuroinflammation and gut dysbiosis induce alterations in tryptophan metabolism, culminating in decreased serotonin synthesis, impairments in neuroplasticity-related mechanisms, and glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity. This review aims to highlight the inflammatory mechanisms (neuroinflammation, peripheral inflammation, and gut dysbiosis) involved in the pathophysiology of MDD and to explore novel anti-inflammatory therapeutic approaches for this psychiatric disturbance. Several lines of evidence have indicated that in addition to antidepressants, physical exercise, probiotics, and nutraceuticals (agmatine, ascorbic acid, and vitamin D) possess anti-inflammatory effects that may contribute to their antidepressant properties. Further studies are necessary to explore the therapeutic benefits of these alternative therapies for MDD.

High-grain feeding contributes to endotoxin contamination in dairy milk

To support milk production and milk quality, ruminant animals like dairy cows are particularly fed using concentrate containing high grain and starch. Nonetheless, this type of regimen feeding could induce subacute rumen acidosis condition. Then, these circumstances cause the lysis of gram-negative bacteria accompanied by endotoxin release in gut. More importantly, gut endotoxin could be translocated to mammary gland, whereby this condition negatively affects to milk safety. The aim of the review is to update and summarize the current knowledge regarding high-grain diet and the occurrence of endotoxin in milk of dairy cows. The data suggest that there is interplay between high-grain feeding for dairy cows to endotoxin contamination in milk.

Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium longum Alleviate Liver Injury and Fibrosis in Mice by Regulating NF-κB and AMPK Signaling

In a preliminary study, live biotherapeutic products (LBPs) Lactobacillus plantarum LC27 and Bifidobacterium longum LC67 inhibited the secretion of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) in LPS-stimulated HepG2 cells, while Escherichia coli K1 (Ec) increased ALT and ALT secretion. Therefore, we examined the effects of LC27 and LC67 on LPS-induced liver injury and fibrosis in mice and the correlation between their biomarkers in cell and animal experiments. Orally administered LC27 or LC67 significantly decreased blood ALT, AST, γ-glutamyl transferase (γGTP), TNF-α, triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TCh), total bile acid, and LPS levels, liver TNF-α, toll-like receptor-4 gene (Tlr4), α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA), and collagen-1 expression and αSMA+GFAP+ and NF-κB+F4/80+ cell populations, and colonic Tlr4, TNF-α, and IL-6 expression and NF-κB-positive cell population in LPS-treated mice. Furthermore, they increased AMPKa phosphorylation in the liver and colon. However, Ec increased the expression of TNF-α and IL-6 in blood, liver, and colon. The suppression of LPS-stimulated ALT and AST secretion in HepG2 cells by LBPs was positively correlated with their ameliorating effects on LPS-induced blood γGTP, ALT, and AST levels and liver αSMA and collagen-1 expression in mice. Based on these findings, LC27 and LC67 may improve liver injury and fibrosis by regulating NF-κB and AMPK signaling pathway and a protocol that can assay the inhibitory activity of LBPs on LPS-induced ALT and AST secretion in HepG2 may be useful for guessing their antihepatitic effects in the in vivo experiments.

Extracellular vesicles derived from Porphyromonas gingivalis induce trigeminal nerve-mediated cognitive impairment

INTRODUCTION

Porphyromonas gingivalis (PG)-infected periodontitis is in close connection with the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). PG-derived extracellular vesicles (pEVs) contain inflammation-inducing virulence factors, including gingipains (GPs) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

OBJECTIVES

To understand how PG could cause cognitive decline, we investigated the effects of PG and pEVs on the etiology of periodontitis and cognitive impairment in mice.

METHODS

Cognitive behaviors were measured in the Y-maze and novel object recognition tasks. Biomarkers were measured using ELISA, qPCR, immunofluorescence assay, and pyrosequencing.

RESULTS

pEVs contained neurotoxic GPs and inflammation-inducible fimbria protein and LPS. Gingivally exposed, but not orally gavaged, PG or pEVs caused periodontitis and induced memory impairment-like behaviors. Gingival exposure to PG or pEVs increased TNF-α expression in the periodontal and hippocampus tissues. They also increased hippocampal GP+Iba1+, LPS+Iba1+, and NF-κB+Iba1+ cell numbers. Gingivally exposed PG or pEVs decreased BDNF, claudin-5, and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor expression and BDNF+NeuN+ cell number. Gingivally exposed fluorescein-5-isothiocyanate-labeled pEVs (F-pEVs) were detected in the trigeminal ganglia and hippocampus. However, right trigeminal neurectomy inhibited the translocation of gingivally injected F-EVs into the right trigeminal ganglia. Gingivally exposed PG or pEVs increased blood LPS and TNF-α levels. Furthermore, they caused colitis and gut dysbiosis.

CONCLUSION

Gingivally infected PG, particularly pEVs, may cause cognitive decline with periodontitis. PG products pEVs and LPS may be translocated into the brain through the trigeminal nerve and periodontal blood pathways, respectively, resulting in the cognitive decline, which may cause colitis and gut dysbiosis. Therefore, pEVs may be a remarkable risk factor for dementia.

Gut microbiota from patients with COVID-19 cause alterations in mice that resemble post-COVID symptoms

Long-term sequelae of coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 are frequent and of major concern. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection affects the host gut microbiota, which is linked to disease severity in patients with COVID-19. Here, we report that the gut microbiota of post-COVID subjects had a remarkable predominance of Enterobacteriaceae strains with an antibiotic-resistant phenotype compared to healthy controls. Additionally, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels were reduced in feces. Fecal transplantation from post-COVID subjects to germ-free mice led to lung inflammation and worse outcomes during pulmonary infection by multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae. transplanted mice also exhibited poor cognitive performance. Overall, we show prolonged impacts of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the gut microbiota that persist after subjects have cleared the virus. Together, these data demonstrate that the gut microbiota can directly contribute to post-COVID sequelae, suggesting that it may be a potential therapeutic target.

Inhibition of microfold cells ameliorates early pathological phenotypes by modulating microglial functions in Alzheimer's disease mouse model

BACKGROUND

The gut microbiota has recently attracted attention as a pathogenic factor in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Microfold (M) cells, which play a crucial role in the gut immune response against external antigens, are also exploited for the entry of pathogenic bacteria and proteins into the body. However, whether changes in M cells can affect the gut environments and consequently change brain pathologies in AD remains unknown.

METHODS

Five familial AD (5xFAD) and 5xFAD-derived fecal microbiota transplanted (5xFAD-FMT) naïve mice were used to investigate the changes of M cells in the AD environment. Next, to establish the effect of M cell depletion on AD environments, 5xFAD mice and Spib knockout mice were bred, and behavioral and histological analyses were performed when M cell-depleted 5xFAD mice were six or nine months of age.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that M cell numbers were increased in the colons of 5xFAD and 5xFAD-FMT mice compared to those of wild-type (WT) and WT-FMT mice. Moreover, the level of total bacteria infiltrating the colons increased in the AD-mimicked mice. The levels of M cell-related genes and that of infiltrating bacteria showed a significant correlation. The genetic inhibition of M cells (Spib knockout) in 5xFAD mice changed the composition of the gut microbiota, along with decreasing proinflammatory cytokine levels in the colons. M cell depletion ameliorated AD symptoms including amyloid-β accumulation, microglial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and memory impairment. Similarly, 5xFAD-FMT did not induce AD-like pathologies, such as memory impairment and excessive neuroinflammation in Spib-/- mice.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, our findings provide evidence that the inhibiting M cells can prevent AD progression, with therapeutic implications.

Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus paracasei alleviate sarcopenia and cognitive impairment in aged mice by regulating gut microbiota-mediated AKT, NF-κB, and FOXO3a signaling pathways

Sarcopenia is closely associated with gut dysbiosis. Probiotics alleviate gut dysbiosis. Therefore, we selected probiotics Lactobacillus paracasei P62 (Lp) and Bifidobacterium bifidum P61 (Bb), which suppressed muscle RING-finger protein-1 (MuRF1) expression and NF-κB activation in C2C12 cells, and examined their effects on muscle mass loss and dysfunction in aged mice. Oral administration of Lp, Bb, or their mix (LB) increased grip strength and treadmill running distance and time. They significantly increased muscle weight in aged mice. They also increased AKT activation, PGC1α, SIRT1, and myosin heavy chain (MyHC) expression, MyHC-positive cell population, and cell size in the gastrocnemius (GA) muscle, while FOXO3a and NF-κB activation, MuRF1, muscle atrophy F-box, and p16 expression, and NF-κB+CD11c+ cell population decreased. Furthermore, they reduced cognitive impairment-like behavior, IL-6 expression, FOXO3a activation, and NF-κB-positive cell population in the hippocampus, GA, and colon, while hippocampal brain-derived neurotropic factor expression increased. They shifted gut microbiota composition in aged mice: they increased Akkermansiaceae and Bacteroidaceae populations, which were positively correlated with total muscle weight and MyHC expression, and decreased Odoribacteraceae and Deferribacteriaceae populations, which were positively correlated with MuRF1 and IL-6 expression. LB alleviated sarcopenia- and cognitive impairment-like symptoms more potently than Lp or Bb alone. Based on these findings, probiotics, particularly Lp, Bb, and LB, can alleviate aging-dependent sarcopenia and cognitive impairment by regulating gut microbiota-mediated AKT, NF-κB, and/or FOXO3a signaling pathways.

The Effects of Lactobacillus johnsonii on Diseases and Its Potential Applications

Lactobacillus johnsonii has been used as a probiotic for decades to treat a wide range of illnesses, and has been found to have specific advantages in the treatment of a number of ailments. We reviewed the potential therapeutic effects and mechanisms of L. johnsonii in various diseases based on PubMed and the Web of Science databases. We obtained the information of 149 L. johnsonii from NCBI (as of 14 February 2023), and reviewed their comprehensive metadata, including information about the plasmids they contain. This review provides a basic characterization of different L. johnsonii and some of their potential therapeutic properties for various ailments. Although the mechanisms are not fully understood yet, it is hoped that they may provide some evidence for future studies. Furthermore, the antibiotic resistance of the various strains of L. johnsonii is not clear, and more complete and in-depth studies are needed. In summary, L. johnsonii presents significant research potential for the treatment or prevention of disease; however, more proof is required to justify its therapeutic application. An additional study on the antibiotic resistance genes it contains is also needed to reduce the antimicrobial resistance dissemination.

Review of microbiota gut brain axis and innate immunity in inflammatory and infective diseases

The microbiota gut brain (MGB) axis has been shown to play a significant role in the regulation of inflammatory and infective diseases. Exploring the structure and communication mode of MGB axis is crucial for understanding its role in diseases, and studying the signaling pathways and regulatory methods of MGB axis regulation in diseases is also of profound significance for future clinical research. This article reviews the composition, communication mechanism of MGB axis and its role in inflammatory and infective diseases, including Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), depression, psoriasis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). In addition, our investigation delved into the regulatory functions of the inflammasome, IFN-I, NF-κB, and PARK7/DJ-1 innate immune signaling pathway in the context of inflammatory and infective diseases. Ultimately, we discussed the efficacy of various interventions, including fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), antibiotics, probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics, in the management of inflammatory and infective diseases. Understanding the role and mechanism of the MGB axis might make positive effects in the treatment of inflammatory and infective diseases.

Unveiling the role of gut-brain axis in regulating neurodegenerative diseases: A comprehensive review

Emerging evidence have shown the importance of gut microbiota in regulating brain functions. The diverse molecular mechanisms involved in cross-talk between gut and brain provide insight into importance of this communication in maintenance of brain homeostasis. It has also been observed that disturbed gut microbiota contributes to neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and aging. Recently, gut microbiome-derived exosomes have also been reported to play an essential role in the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases and could thereby act as a therapeutic target. Further, pharmacological interventions including antibiotics, prebiotics and probiotics can influence gut microbiome-mediated management of neurological diseases. However, extensive research is warranted to better comprehend this interconnection in maintenance of brain homeostasis and its implication in neurological diseases. Thus, the present review is aimed to provide a detailed understanding of gut-brain axis followed by possibilities to target the gut microbiome for improving neurological health.

Alterations in the Gut Microbiome of Young Children with Airway Allergic Disease Revealed by Next-Generation Sequencing

Purpose

Recent studies had shown that gut microbiota played a significant role in the development of the immune system and may affect the course of airway allergic disease. We conducted this study to determine unique gut microbial associated with allergic disease in children by shotgun gene sequencing.

Methods

We collected fecal samples from children with allergic asthma (n = 23) and allergic rhinitis (n = 18), and healthy control (n = 19). The gut microbiota of specimens was analyzed by high-throughput metagenomic shotgun gene sequencing.

Results

The intestinal microbiota of children with allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis was characterized by increased microbial richness and diversity. Simpson and Shannon were significantly elevated in children with allergic asthma. Principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) showed that the gut microbial communities cluster patterns of children with asthma or rhinitis were significantly different from those of healthy controls. However, no significant difference was found between asthma group and rhinitis group At the phylum level, higher relative abundance of Firmicutes was found in the allergic rhinitis group and allergic asthma group, while the level of Bacteroidetes was significantly lower. At the genus level, Corynebacterium, Streptococcus, Dorea, Actinomyces, Bifidobacterium, Blautia, and Rothia were significantly enriched in the allergic asthma group. Finally, a random forest classifier model selected 16 general signatures to discriminate the allergic asthma group from the healthy control group.

Conclusion

In conclusion, children in the allergic rhinitis group and allergic asthma group had altered gut microbiomes in comparison with the healthy control group. Compared to healthy children, the gut microbiome in children with allergic diseases has higher pro-inflammatory potential and increased production of pro-inflammatory molecules.

The microbiota-gut-brain axis in hippocampus-dependent learning and memory: current state and future challenges

A fundamental shift in neuroscience suggests bidirectional interaction of gut microbiota with the healthy and dysfunctional brain. This microbiota-gut-brain axis has mainly been investigated in stress-related psychopathology (e.g. depression, anxiety). The hippocampus, a key structure in both the healthy brain and psychopathologies, is implicated by work in rodents that suggests gut microbiota substantially impact hippocampal-dependent learning and memory. However, understanding microbiota-hippocampus mechanisms in health and disease, and translation to humans, is hampered by the absence of a coherent evaluative approach. We review the current knowledge regarding four main gut microbiota-hippocampus routes in rodents: through the vagus nerve; via the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal-axis; by metabolism of neuroactive substances; and through modulation of host inflammation. Next, we suggest an approach including testing (biomarkers of) the four routes as a function of the influence of gut microbiota (composition) on hippocampal-dependent (dys)functioning. We argue that such an approach is necessary to proceed from the current state of preclinical research to beneficial application in humans to optimise microbiota-based strategies to treat and enhance hippocampal-dependent memory (dys)functions.

Aloe-derived nanovesicles attenuate inflammation and enhance tight junction proteins for acute colitis treatment

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic recurrent inflammatory disease of the digestive tract that causes pain and weight loss and also increases the risk of colon cancer. Inspired by the benefits of plant-derived nanovesicles and aloe, we herein report aloe-derived nanovesicles, including aloe vera-derived nanovesicles (VNVs), aloe arborescens-derived nanovesicles (ANVs), and aloe saponaria-derived nanovesicles (SNVs) and evaluate their therapeutic potential and molecular mechanisms in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute experimental colitis mouse model. Aloe-derived nanovesicles not only facilitate markedly reduced DSS-induced acute colonic inflammation, but also enable the restoration of tight junction (TJ) and adherent junction (AJ) proteins to prevent gut permeability in DSS-induced acute colonic injury. These therapeutic effects are ascribed to the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects of aloe-derived nanovesicles. Therefore, aloe-derived nanovesicles are a safe treatment option for IBD.

Alleviation of Cognitive Impairment-like Behaviors, Neuroinflammation, Colitis, and Gut Dysbiosis in 5xFAD Transgenic and Aged Mice by Lactobacillus mucosae and Bifidobacterium longum

Neuropsychiatric disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD) may cause gut inflammation and dysbiosis. Gut inflammation-suppressing probiotics alleviate neuropsychiatric disorders. Herein, to understand whether anti-inflammatory probiotics Lactobacillus mucosae NK41 and Bifidobacterium longum NK46, which suppressed tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α expression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages, could alleviate cognitive impairment, we first examined their effects on cognitive function, gut inflammation, and gut microbiota composition in 5xFAD-transgenic mice. Oral administration of NK41 or NK46 decreased cognitive impairment-like behaviors, hippocampal amyloid-β (Aβ), TNF-α and interleukin (IL)-1β expression, hippocampal NF-κB+Iba1+ cell population, and Aβ accumulation, while hippocampal brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) and IL-10 expression and BDNF+NeuN+ cell population increased. They also decreased TNF-α and IL-1β expression and NF-κB+CD11c+ cell population in the colon. They also reduced fecal and blood LPS levels and gut Proteobacteria and Verrucomicrobia populations (including Akkkermansiaceae), which are positively associated with hippocampal TNF-α and fecal LPS levels and negatively correlated with hippocampal BDNF level. However, they increased Odoribactericeae, which positively correlated with BDNF expression level and TNF-α to IL-10 expression ratio. The combination of NK41 and NK46 (4:1, NKc), which potently inhibited TNF-α expression in LPS-stimulated macrophages, additively alleviated cognitive impairment-like behaviors in 5xFAD-transgenic or aged mice. NKc increased hippocampal BDNF+NeuN+ cell population and BDNF expression in 5xFAD-transgenic or aged mice, while hippocampal TNF-α and IL-1β expression decreased. NKc also decreased TNF-α and IL-1β expression in the colon and LPS levels in the blood and feces. These findings suggest that gut bacteria and its product LPS may be closely connected with occurrence of cognitive impairment and neuroinflammation and the combination of NK41 and NK46 can additively alleviate cognitive impairment and neuroinflammation by inducing NF-κB-suppressed BDNF expression and suppressing LPS-producing gut bacteria.

Effect of the combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus (probiotic) with vitamin K3 and vitamin E on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus: An in vitro pathogen model

The gut microbiota plays a key role in maintaining health and regulating the host's immune response. The use of probiotics and concomitant vitamins can increase mucus secretion by improving the intestinal microbial population and prevent the breakdown of tight junction proteins by reducing lipopolysaccharide concentration. Changes in the intestinal microbiome mass affect multiple metabolic and physiological functions. Studies on how this microbiome mass and the regulation in the gastrointestinal tract are affected by probiotic supplements and vitamin combinations have attracted attention. The current study evaluated vitamins K and E and probiotic combinations effects on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Minimal inhibition concentrations of vitamins and probiotics were determined. In addition, inhibition zone diameters, antioxidant activities and immunohistochemical evaluation of the cell for DNA damage were performed to evaluate the effects of vitamins and probiotics. At the specified dose intervals, L. acidophilus and vitamin combinations inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. It could thus contribute positively to biological functions by exerting immune system‑strengthening activities.

Effects of gut microbiota on neurodegenerative diseases

A progressive degradation of the brain's structure and function, which results in a reduction in cognitive and motor skills, characterizes neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington's disease (HD). The morbidity linked to NDs is growing, which poses a severe threat to human being's mental and physical ability to live well. The gut-brain axis (GBA) is now known to have a crucial role in the emergence of NDs. The gut microbiota is a conduit for the GBA, a two-way communication system between the gut and the brain. The myriad microorganisms that make up the gut microbiota can affect brain physiology by transmitting numerous microbial chemicals from the gut to the brain via the GBA or neurological system. The synthesis of neurotransmitters, the immunological response, and the metabolism of lipids and glucose have all been demonstrated to be impacted by alterations in the gut microbiota, such as an imbalance of helpful and harmful bacteria. In order to develop innovative interventions and clinical therapies for NDs, it is crucial to comprehend the participation of the gut microbiota in these conditions. In addition to using antibiotics and other drugs to target particular bacterial species that may be a factor in NDs, this also includes using probiotics and other fecal microbiota transplantation to maintain a healthy gut microbiota. In conclusion, the examination of the GBA can aid in understanding the etiology and development of NDs, which may benefit the improvement of clinical treatments for these disorders and ND interventions. This review indicates existing knowledge about the involvement of microbiota present in the gut in NDs and potential treatment options.

Lactobacillus casei and Its Supplement Alleviate Stress-Induced Depression and Anxiety in Mice by the Regulation of BDNF Expression and NF-κB Activation

Stress-induced depression and anxiety (DA) are closely connected to gastrointestinal inflammation and dysbiosis, which can suppress brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain. Herein, we isolated the BDNF expression-inducing probiotics Lactobacillus casei HY2782 and Bifidobacterium lactis HY8002 in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated SH-SY5Y cells. Then, we investigated the effects of HY2782, HY8002, anti-inflammatory L-theanine, and their supplement (PfS, probiotics-fermented L-theanine-containing supplement) on DA in mice exposed to restraint stress (RS) or the fecal microbiota of patients with inflammatory bowel disease and depression (FMd). Oral administration of HY2782, HY8002, or L-theanine alleviated RS-induced DA-like behaviors. They also decreased RS-induced hippocampal interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 levels, as well as NF-κB-positive cell numbers, blood corticosterone level, and colonic IL-1β and IL-6 levels and NF-κB-positive cell numbers. L-theanine more potently suppressed DA-like behaviors and inflammation-related marker levels than probiotics. However, these probiotics more potently increased RS-suppressed hippocampal BDNF level and BDNF⁺NeuN⁺ cell numbers than L-theanine. Furthermore, HY2782 and HY8002 suppressed RS-increased Proteobacteria and Verrucomicrobia populations in gut microbiota. In particular, they increased Lachnospiraceae and Lactobacillacease populations, which are closely positively associated with hippocampal BDNF expression, and suppressed Sutterellaceae, Helicobacteriaceae, Akkermansiaceae, and Enterobacteriaceae populations, which are closely positively associated with hippocampal IL-1β expression. HY2782 and HY8002 potently alleviated FMd-induced DA-like behaviors and increased FMd-suppressed BDNF, serotonin levels, and BDNF-positive neuronal cell numbers in the brain. They alleviated blood corticosterone level and colonic IL-1β α and IL-6 levels. However, L-theanine weakly, but not significantly, alleviated FMd-induced DA-like behaviors and gut inflammation. BDNF expression-inducing probiotic (HY2782, HY8002, Streptococcus thermophilus, and Lactobacillus acidophilus)-fermented and anti-inflammatory L-theanine-containing supplement PfS alleviated DA-like behaviors, inflammation-related biomarker levels, and gut dysbiosis more than probiotics or L-theanine. Based on these findings, a combination of BDNF expression-inducing probiotics with anti-inflammatory L-theanine may additively or synergistically alleviate DA and gut dysbiosis by regulating gut microbiota-mediated inflammation and BDNF expression, thereby being beneficial for DA.

Calorie restriction mitigates metabolic, behavioral and neurochemical effects of cafeteria diet in aged male rats

Besides metabolic dysfunctions, elderly individuals with obesity are at special risk of developing cognitive decline and psychiatric disturbances. Restricted calorie consumption could be an efficient strategy to improve metabolic function after obesity. However, its effects on anxiety-like behaviors in aged rats submitted to an obesogenic diet are unknown. For this purpose, 42 Wistar rats (18-months old) were divided into four groups: Control (CT), calorie restriction (CR), cafeteria diet (CAF), and CAF+CR (CAF/CR). CT, CR, and CAF groups received the diets for 8 weeks. CAF/CR group was submitted to the CAF menu for 7 weeks and then switched to a standard diet on a CR regimen, receiving 30% lower calories than consumed by the CT, for another 5 weeks. CAF's menu consisted of ultra-processed foods such as cookies, chocolate, sausage, and bologna. Body weight, visceral adiposity, and biochemical blood analysis were evaluated for obesity diagnosis. The profile of gut microbiota was investigated, along with circulating levels of LPS. Neurochemical parameters, such as neurotransmitter levels, were dosed. Anxiety-like behaviors were accessed using open field (OF) and elevated plus maze (EPM) tests. As expected, CR reduced weight gain and improved glucose homeostasis. Gut microbiome disturbance was found in CAF-fed animals accompanied by increased levels of LPS. However, CR after CAF mitigated several harmful responses. The obesogenic diet triggered anxiety-like manifestations in the OF and EPM tests that were not evidenced in the CAF/CR group. These findings indicate that CR can be a promising strategy for the neurological effects of obesity in aged rats.

Edwardsiella piscicida infection reshapes the intestinal microbiome and metabolome of big-belly seahorses: mechanistic insights of synergistic actions of virulence factors

Uncovering the mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of Edwardsiella piscicida-induced enteritis is essential for global aquaculture. In the present study, we identified E. piscicida as a lethal pathogen of the big-belly seahorse (Hippocampus abdominalis) and revealed its pathogenic pattern and characteristics by updating our established bacterial enteritis model and evaluation system. Conjoint analysis of metagenomic and metabolomic data showed that 15 core virulence factors could mutually coordinate the remodeling of intestinal microorganisms and host metabolism and induce enteritis in the big-belly seahorse. Specifically, the Flagella, Type IV pili, and Lap could significantly increase the activities of the representative functional pathways of both flagella assembly and bacterial chemotaxis in the intestinal microbiota (P < 0.01) to promote pathogen motility, adherence, and invasion. Legiobactin, IraAB, and Hpt could increase ABC transporter activity (P < 0.01) to compete for host nutrition and promote self-replication. Capsule1, HP-NAP, and FarAB could help the pathogen to avoid phagocytosis. Upon entering epithelial cells and phagocytes, Bsa T3SS and Dot/Icm could significantly increase bacterial secretion system activity (P < 0.01) to promote the intracellular survival and replication of the pathogen and the subsequent invasion of the neighboring tissues. Finally, LPS3 could significantly increase lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis (P < 0.01) to release toxins and kill the host. Throughout the pathogenic process, BopD, PhoP, and BfmRS significantly activated the two-component system (P < 0.01) to coordinate with other VFs to promote deep invasion. In addition, the levels of seven key metabolic biomarkers, Taurine, L-Proline, Uridine, L-Glutamate, Glutathione, Xanthosine, and L-Malic acid, significantly decreased (P < 0.01), and they can be used for characterizing E. piscicida infection. Overall, the present study systematically revealed how a combination of virulence factors mediate E. piscicida-induced enteritis in fish for the first time, providing a theoretical reference for preventing and controlling this disease in the aquaculture of seahorses and other fishes.

Effect of fermented red ginseng on gut microbiota dysbiosis- or immobilization stress-induced anxiety, depression, and colitis in mice

Background

Red ginseng (RG) alleviates psychiatric disorders. Fermented red ginseng (fRG) alleviates stress-induced gut inflammation. Gut dysbiosis causes psychiatric disorders with gut inflammation. To understand the gut microbiota-mediated action mechanism of RG and fRG against anxiety/depression (AD), we investigated the effects of RG, fRG, ginsenoside Rd, and 20(S)-β-D-glucopyranosyl protopanaxadiol (CK) on gut microbiota dysbiosis-induced AD and colitis in mice.

Methods

Mice with AD and colitis were prepared by exposing to immobilization stress (IS) or transplanting the feces of patients with ulcerative colitis and depression (UCDF). AD-like behaviors were measured in the elevated plus maze, light/dark transition, forced swimming, and tail suspension tests.

Results

Oral gavage of UCDF increased AD-like behaviors and induced neuroinflammation, gastrointestinal inflammation, and gut microbiota fluctuation in mice. Oral administration of fRG or RG treatment reduced UCDF-induced AD-like behaviors, hippocampal and hypothalamic IL-6 expression, and blood corticosterone level, whereas UCDF-suppressed hippocampal BDNF+NeuN+ cell population and dopamine and hypothalamic serotonin levels increased. Furthermore, their treatments suppressed UCDF-induced colonic inflammation and partially restored UCDF-induced gut microbiota fluctuation. Oral administration of fRG, RG, Rd, or CK also decreased IS-induced AD-like behaviors, blood IL-6 and corticosterone and colonic IL-6 and TNF-α levels, and gut dysbiosis, while IS-suppressed hypothalamic dopamine and serotonin levels increased.

Conclusion

Oral gavage of UCDF caused AD, neuroinflammation, and gastrointestinal inflammation in mice. fRG mitigated AD and colitis in UCDF-exposed mice by the regulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis and IS-exposed mice by the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis.

Alleviation of Porphyromonas gingivalis or Its Extracellular Vesicles Provoked Periodontitis and Cognitive Impairment by Lactobacillus pentosus NK357 and Bifidobacterium bifidum NK391

Porphyromonas gingivalis (PG) is closely involved in the outbreak of periodontitis and cognitive impairment (CI). Herein, we examined the effects of anti-inflammatory Lactobacillus pentosus NK357 and Bifidobacterium bifidum NK391 on PG- or its extracellular vesicles (pEVs)-induced periodontitis and CI in mice. Oral administration of NK357 or NK391 significantly decreased PG-induced tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, receptor activator of nuclear factors κB (RANK), and RANK ligand (RANKL) expression, gingipain (GP)⁺lipopolysaccharide (LPS)⁺ and NF-κB⁺CD11c⁺ populations, and PG 16S rDNA level in the periodontal tissue. Their treatments also suppressed PG-induced CI -like behaviors, TNF-α expression and NF-κB-positive immune cells in the hippocampus and colon, while PG-suppressed hippocampal BDNF and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) expression increased. The combination of NK357 and NK391 additively alleviated PG- or pEVs-induced periodontitis, neuroinflammation, CI-like behaviors, colitis, and gut microbiota dysbiosis and increased PG- or pEVs-suppressed BDNF and NMDAR expression in the hippocampus. In conclusion, NK357 and NK391 may alleviate periodontitis and dementia by regulating NF-κB, RANKL/RANK, and BDNF-NMDAR signaling and gut microbiota.

Lactobacillus gasseri NK109 and Its Supplement Alleviate Cognitive Impairment in Mice by Modulating NF-κB Activation, BDNF Expression, and Gut Microbiota Composition

Aging-related gut microbiota dysbiosis initiates gut inflammation and microbiota dysbiosis, which induce the occurrence of psychiatric disorders including dementia. The alleviation of gut microbiota dysbiosis by probiotics is suggested to be able to alleviate psychiatric disorders including cognitive impairment (CI). Therefore, to understand how probiotics could alleviate CI, we examined the effects of anti-inflammatory Lactobacillus gasseri NK109 and its supplement (NS, mixture of NK109 and soybean embryo ethanol extract) on cognitive function in aged (Ag), 5XFAD transgenic (Tg), or mildly cognition-impaired adult fecal microbiota (MCF)-transplanted mice. Oral administration of NK109 or NS decreased CI-like behaviors in Ag mice. Their treatments suppressed TNF-α and p16 expression and NF-κB-activated cell populations in the hippocampus and colon, while BDNF expression was induced. Moreover, they partially shifted the β-diversity of gut microbiota in Ag mice to those of young mice: they decreased Bifidobacteriaceae, Lactobacillaceae, and Helicobacteriaceae populations and increased Rikenellaceae and Prevotellaceae populations. Oral administration of NK109 or NS also reduced CI-like behaviors in Tg mice. Their treatments induced BDNF expression in the hippocampus, decreased hippocampal TNF-α and Aβ expression and hippocampal and colonic NF-κB-activated cell populations. NK109 and NS partially shifted the β-diversity of gut microbiota in Tg mice: they decreased Muribaculaceae and Rhodospiraceae populations and increased Helicobacteriaceae population. Oral administration of NK109 or NS decreased MCF transplantation-induced CI-like behaviors in mice. NK109 and NS increased hippocampal BDNF expression, while hippocampal and colonic TNF-α expression and NF-κB-activated cell populations decreased. These findings suggest that dementia can fluctuate the gut microbiota composition and NK109 and its supplement NS can alleviate CI with systemic inflammation by inducing BDNF expression and suppressing NF-κB activation and gut microbiota dysbiosis.

Protective effects of CCL01 against Aβ-induced neurotoxicity in 5xFAD transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common dementia characterized by the excessive accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) and tau aggregates, as well as neuronal damage and neuroinflammation. Metabolic disruption in AD has been noticed because metabolite alterations closely correlate with Aβ neuropathology and behavioral phenotypes. Accordingly, controlling various neuropathological processes and metabolic disruption is an efficient therapeutic strategy for AD treatment. In this study, we evaluated the effects of a combination of Cuscuta seeds and Lactobacillus paracasei NK112 (CCL01) on AD neuropathology and altered metabolism in five familial AD (5xFAD) transgenic mice and neuronal cell cultures. First, we observed that CCL01 exerted neuroprotective effects in HT22 hippocampal neurons and primary cultured neurons. CCL01 ameliorated memory decline and protected synapses and neuronal survival in 5xFAD mice. These effects were related to the inhibition of tau phosphorylation. CCL01 also inhibited the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and neuroinflammatory processes. Moreover, the metabolite profile-particularly characterized by altered phospholipid metabolism-was significantly changed in the 5xFAD group, while CCL01 partly restored the alteration. Lysophosphatidylcholine (lysoPC), the levels of which were higher in the brains of 5xFAD mice, exerted neurotoxicity in vitro, whereas CCL01 protected neurons from lysoPC-induced toxicity by regulating MAPK signaling. Additionally, CCL01 administration reduced gut inflammation in the 5xFAD mice. In summary, we demonstrated that CCL01 improved the memory function of 5xFAD mice by protecting neurons against Aβ- and lysoPC-induced toxicity through the regulation of MAPK signaling, neuroinflammation, tau phosphorylation, and gut inflammation, suggesting the potential of CCL01 as treatment for AD.

Inflammatory bowel disease: A potential pathogenic factor of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a central nervous system disease characterised by degenerative cognitive dysfunction and memory loss. In a society where the global population is gradually ageing, the health threats and financial burdens caused by AD are becoming increasingly severe since AD often occurs in old age. With the in-depth study of AD, many new pathogenic mechanisms have been proposed, among which bidirectional communication between intestinal microbes and the brain has attracted widespread attention. The aetiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is related to the imbalance of the gut microbiota. Epidemiological investigations have shown that patients with IBD are more likely to suffer from AD. Targeting IBD as a potential AD treatment target has attracted considerable interest. Here, we reviewed the link between chronic intestinal inflammation and central nervous system inflammation and found that IBD patients had a higher risk of AD than non-IBD patients. Preclinical models based on AD also showed that IBD aggravated the condition of AD. We discussed possible biological links between AD and IBD, including the gut-brain axis, autoimmunity, and the gut microbiota. In addition, IBD-induced changes in intestinal microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, bile acids, and tryptophan, which aggravate the development of AD, were also discussed.

Involvement of Intestinal Microbiota in Adult Neurogenesis and the Expression of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor

Growing evidence suggests a possible involvement of the intestinal microbiota in generating new neurons, but a detailed breakdown of the microbiota composition is lacking. In this report, we systematically reviewed preclinical rodent reports addressing the connection between the composition of the intestinal microbiota and neurogenesis and neurogenesis-affecting neurotrophins in the hippocampus. Various changes in bacterial composition from low taxonomic resolution at the phylum level to high taxonomic resolution at the species level were identified. As for neurogenesis, studies predominantly used doublecortin (DCX) as a marker of newly formed neurons or bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) as a marker of proliferation. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was the only neurotrophin found researched in relation to the intestinal microbiota. Phylum Actinobacteria, genus Bifidobacterium and genus Lactobacillus found the strongest positive. In contrast, phylum Firmicutes, phylum Bacteroidetes, and family Enterobacteriaceae, as well as germ-free status, showed the strongest negative correlation towards neurogenesis or BDNF mRNA expression. Age, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), obesity, and chronic stress were recurring topics in all studies identified. Overall, these findings add to the existing evidence of a connection between microbiota and processes in the brain. To better understand this interaction, further investigation based on analyses of higher taxonomic resolution and clinical studies would be a gain to the matter.

Prenatal Maternal Antibiotics Treatment Alters the Gut Microbiota and Immune Function of Post-Weaned Prepubescent Offspring

This study aimed to investigate the immediate and continual perturbation to the gut microbiota of offspring in the weeks post-weaning and how these may be modulated by treating pregnant C57BL/6J dams with antibiotics (ABX). We used a broad-spectrum antibiotic cocktail consisting of ampicillin 1 mg/mL, neomycin 1 mg/mL, and vancomycin 0.5 mg/mL, or vancomycin 0.5 mg/mL alone, administered ad-lib orally to dams via drinking water during gestation and stopped after delivery. We analyzed the gut microbiota of offspring, cytokine profiles in circulation, and the brain to determine if there was evidence of a gut-immune-brain connection. Computationally predicted metabolic pathways were calculated from 16s rRNA sequencing data. ABX treatment can negatively affect the gut microbiota, including reduced diversity, altered metabolic activity, and immune function. We show that the maternal ABX-treatment continues to alter the offspring's gut microbiota diversity, composition, and metabolic pathways after weaning, with the most significant differences evident in 5-week-olds as opposed to 4-week-olds. Lower levels of chemokines and inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1α and IL-2, are also seen in the periphery and brains of offspring, respectively. In conclusion, this study shows maternal antibiotic administration alters gut microbiome profiles in offspring, which undergoes a continuous transformation, from week to week, at an early age after weaning.

Psychological stress in inflammatory bowel disease: Psychoneuroimmunological insights into bidirectional gut–brain communications

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), mainly including ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), is an autoimmune gastrointestinal disease characterized by chronic inflammation and frequent recurrence. Accumulating evidence has confirmed that chronic psychological stress is considered to trigger IBD deterioration and relapse. Moreover, studies have demonstrated that patients with IBD have a higher risk of developing symptoms of anxiety and depression than healthy individuals. However, the underlying mechanism of the link between psychological stress and IBD remains poorly understood. This review used a psychoneuroimmunology perspective to assess possible neuro-visceral integration, immune modulation, and crucial intestinal microbiome changes in IBD. Furthermore, the bidirectionality of the brain–gut axis was emphasized in the context, indicating that IBD pathophysiology increases the inflammatory response in the central nervous system and further contributes to anxiety- and depression-like behavioral comorbidities. This information will help accurately characterize the link between psychological stress and IBD disease activity. Additionally, the clinical application of functional brain imaging, microbiota-targeted treatment, psychotherapy and antidepressants should be considered during the treatment and diagnosis of IBD with behavioral comorbidities. This review elucidates the significance of more high-quality research combined with large clinical sample sizes and multiple diagnostic methods and psychotherapy, which may help to achieve personalized therapeutic strategies for IBD patients based on stress relief.

Crosstalk between the aging intestinal microflora and the brain in ischemic stroke

Aging is an inevitable phenomenon experienced by animals and humans, and its intensity varies from one individual to another. Aging has been identified as a risk factor for neurodegenerative disorders by influencing the composition of the gut microbiota, microglia activity and cognitive performance. The microbiota-gut-brain axis is a two-way communication path between the gut microbes and the host brain. The aging intestinal microbiota communicates with the brain through secreted metabolites (neurotransmitters), and this phenomenon leads to the destruction of neuronal cells. Numerous external factors, such as living conditions and internal factors related to the age of the host, affect the condition of the intestinal microflora in the form of dysbiosis. Dysbiosis is defined as changes in the composition and function of the gut microflora that affect the pathogenesis, progress, and response to treatment of a disease entity. Dysbiosis occurs when changes in the composition and function of the microbiota exceed the ability of the microflora and its host to restore equilibrium. Dysbiosis leading to dysfunction of the microbiota-gut-brain axis regulates the development and functioning of the host’s nervous, immune, and metabolic systems. Dysbiosis, which causes disturbances in the microbiota-gut-brain axis, is seen with age and with the onset of stroke, and is closely related to the development of risk factors for stroke. The review presents and summarizes the basic elements of the microbiota-gut-brain axis to better understand age-related changes in signaling along the microbiota-gut-brain axis and its dysfunction after stroke. We focused on the relationship between the microbiota-gut-brain axis and aging, emphasizing that all elements of the microbiota-gut-brain axis are subject to age-related changes. We also discuss the interaction between microbiota, microglia and neurons in the aged individuals in the brain after ischemic stroke. Finally, we presented preclinical and clinical studies on the role of the aged microbiota-gut-brain axis in the development of risk factors for stroke and changes in the post-stroke microflora.

Gingerenone A Alleviates Ferroptosis in Secondary Liver Injury in Colitis Mice via Activating Nrf2-Gpx4 Signaling Pathway

Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) have been found to be frequently associated with secondary liver injury (SLI). In this study, we investigated the protective effect of GA on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced SLI in mice and its mechanism. The SLI was established by adding 4% DSS in the drinking water of mice, and the effects of GA (5, 20 mg/kg, p.o., once a day for 7 days) in hepatic tissues were analyzed. HepG2 cells were induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to detect the effect of GA on ferroptosis and the underlying mechanism. Pathological damage was determined by H&E. Liver parameters (AST and ALT), antioxidant enzyme activities (MDA and SOD), and the level of Fe²⁺ in the liver were detected by kits. Cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and Gpx4 activity in the liver were detected by ELISA. Finally, the activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (Nrf2) was detected to explore the mechanism. The results indicated that GA significantly attenuated DSS-induced hepatic pathological damage, liver parameters, and cytokine levels and increased the antioxidant enzyme activities. Moreover, GA attenuated ferroptosis in DSS-induced liver injury and upregulated Gpx4 expression in DSS-induced mice. Mechanistic experiments revealed that GA activated Nrf2 in mice. Taken together, this study demonstrates that GA can alleviate ferroptosis in SLI in DSS-induced colitis mice, and its protective effects are associated with activating the Nrf2-Gpx4 signaling pathway.

Estrogen receptor β deficiency impairs gut microbiota: a possible mechanism of IBD-induced anxiety-like behavior

BACKGROUND

Although the lack of estrogen receptor β (ERβ) is a risk factor for the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and psychiatric disorders, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. Herein, we revealed the role of gut microbiota in the development of IBD and related anxiety-like behavior in ERβ-deficient mice.

RESULTS

In response to dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) insult, the ERβ knockout mice displayed significant shift in α and β diversity in the fecal microbiota composition and demonstrated worsening of colitis and anxiety-like behaviors. In addition, DSS-induced colitis also induced hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis hyperactivity in ERβ-deficient mice, which was associated with colitis and anxiety-like behaviors. In addition, RNA sequencing data suggested that ErbB4 might be the target of ERβ that is involved in regulating the HPA axis hyperactivity caused by DSS insult. Gut microbiota remodeling by co-housing showed that both the colitis and anxiety-like behaviors were aggravated in co-housed wild-type mice compared to single-housed wild-type mice. These findings suggest that gut microbiota play a critical role in mediating colitis disease activity and anxiety-like behaviors via aberrant neural processing within the gut-brain axis.

CONCLUSIONS

ERβ has the potential to inhibit colitis development and anxiety-like behaviors via remodeling of the gut microbiota, which suggests that ERβ is a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of IBD and related anxiety-like behaviors. Video Abstract.

ADSCs stimulated by VEGF-C alleviate intestinal inflammation via dual mechanisms of enhancing lymphatic drainage by a VEGF-C/VEGFR-3-dependent mechanism and inhibiting the NF-κB pathway by the secretome

Background

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have provided promising applications for Crohn’s disease (CD). However, the practical efficacy of ADSCs remains controversial, and their mechanism is still unclear. Based on the pathogenesis of dysregulated immune responses and abnormal lymphatic alterations in CD, vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) is thought to be a favourable growth factor to optimize ADSCs. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of VEGF-C-stimulated ADSCs and their dual mechanisms in both inhibiting inflammation “IN” and promoting inflammation “OUT” in the intestine.

Methods

Human stem cells isolated from adipose tissues were identified, pretreated with or without 100 ng/ml VEGF-C and analysed for the secretion of cell culture supernatants in vitro. Lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) were treated with ADSCs-conditioned medium or co-cultured with ADSCs and VEGF-C stimulated ADSCs. Changes in LECs transmigration, and VEGF-C/VEGFR-3 mRNA levels were assessed by transwell chamber assay and qRT–PCR. ADSCs and VEGF-C-stimulated ADSCs were intraperitoneally injected into mice with TNBS-induced chronic colitis. ADSCs homing and lymphatic vessel density (LVD) were evaluated by immunofluorescence staining. Lymphatic drainage was assessed using Evans blue. Cytokines and growth factors expression was detected respectively by ELISA and qRT–PCR. The protein levels of VEGF-C/VEGFR-3-mediated downstream signals and the NF-κB pathway were assayed by western blot. Faecal microbiota was measured by 16S rRNA sequencing.

Results

ADSCs stimulated with VEGF-C released higher levels of growth factors (VEGF-C, TGF-β1, and FGF-2) and lower expression of cytokines (IFN-γ and IL-6) in cell supernatants than ADSCs in vitro (all P < 0.05). Secretome released by VEGF-C stimulated ADSCs exhibited a stronger LEC migratory capability and led to elevated VEGF-C/VEGFR-3 expression, but these effects were markedly attenuated by VEGFR-3 inhibitor. VEGF-C-stimulated ADSCs homing to the inflamed colon and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) can exert stronger efficacy in improving colitis symptoms, reducing inflammatory cell infiltration, and significantly enhancing lymphatic drainage. The mRNA levels and protein concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors were markedly increased with decreased proinflammatory cytokines in the mice treated with VEGF-C-stimulated ADSCs. Systemic administration of VEGF-C-stimulated ADSCs upregulated the colonic VEGF-C/VEGFR-3 pathway and activated downstream AKT and ERK phosphorylation signalling, accompanied by decreased NF-κB p65 expression. A higher abundance of faecal p-Bacteroidetes and lower p-Firmicutes were detected in mice treated with VEGF-C-stimulated ADSCs (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

VEGF-C-stimulated ADSCs improve chronic intestinal inflammation by promoting lymphatic drainage and enhancing paracrine signalling via activation of VEGF-C/VEGFR-3-mediated signalling and inhibition of the NF-κB pathway. Our study may provide a new insight into optimizing ADSCs treatment and investigating potential mechanisms in CD.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-03132-3.

mPR-Specific Actions Influence Maintenance of the Blood–Brain Barrier (BBB)

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are characterized by abnormally dilated intracranial microvascular sinusoids that result in increased susceptibility to hemorrhagic stroke. It has been demonstrated that three CCM proteins (CCM1, CCM2, and CCM3) form the CCM signaling complex (CSC) to mediate angiogenic signaling. Disruption of the CSC will result in hemorrhagic CCMs, a consequence of compromised blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity. Due to their characteristically incomplete penetrance, the majority of CCM mutation carriers (presumed CCM patients) are largely asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, the disease has typically reached a clinical stage of focal hemorrhage with irreversible brain damage. We recently reported that the CSC couples both classic (nuclear; nPRs) and nonclassic (membrane; mPRs) progesterone (PRG)-receptors-mediated signaling within the CSC-mPRs-PRG (CmP) signaling network in nPR(−) breast cancer cells. In this report, we demonstrate that depletion of any of the three CCM genes or treatment with mPR-specific PRG actions (PRG/mifepristone) results in the disruption of the CmP signaling network, leading to increased permeability in the nPR(−) endothelial cells (ECs) monolayer in vitro. Finally, utilizing our in vivo hemizygous Ccm mutant mice models, we demonstrate that depletion of any of the three CCM genes, in combination with mPR-specific PRG actions, is also capable of leading to defective homeostasis of PRG in vivo and subsequent BBB disruption, allowing us to identify a specific panel of etiological blood biomarkers associated with BBB disruption. To our knowledge, this is the first report detailing the etiology to predict the occurrence of a disrupted BBB, an indication of early hemorrhagic events.

Inflammatory bowel disease-associated Escherichia coli strain LF82 in the damage of gut and cognition of honeybees

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are often accompanied with some cognitive impairment, but the mechanism is unclear. By orally exposing honeybees (Apis mellifera) to IBD-associated Escherichia coli LF82 (LF82), and non-pathogenic Escherichia coli MG1655 (MG1655) as the normal strain, we investigated whether and how LF82 induces enteritis-like manifestations and cognitive behavioral modifications in honeybees using multiparametric analysis. LF82 significantly increased gut permeability, impaired learning and memory ability in olfactory proboscis extension response conditioning, and shortened the lifespan of honeybees. Compared to MG1655, LF82 reduced the levels of tryptophan metabolism pathway substances in the honeybee gut. LF82 also upregulated genes involved in immune and apoptosis-related pathways and downregulated genes involved in G protein-coupled receptors in the honeybee brain. In conclusion, LF82 can induce enteritis-like manifestations and cognition impairment through gut metabolites and brain transcriptome alteration in honeybees. Honeybees can serve as a novel potential model to study the microbiota-gut-brain interaction in IBD condition.

Exploring the potential antidepressant mechanisms of puerarin: Anti-inflammatory response via the gut-brain axis

BACKGROUND

Puerarin has been shown to have a good antidepressant effect, and our previous study found that it can remedy stress-induced dysbiosis. However, its gut microbiota-related mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential link between puerarin on gut microbiota and inflammatory responses in depressed rats.

METHODS

A chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rat model of depression was established, open field test (OFT), sucrose preference test (SPT) and forced swimming test (FST) were used to evaluate its antidepressant effect. 16S rRNA sequencing was performed to identify the rat fecal microflora. At the same time, inflammatory cytokines, colonic histopathological changes, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), inhibitor a of NF-κB (IκB-α) protein expression were detected.

RESULTS

Puerarin attenuated CUMS-induced depressive-like behavior and gut microbiota dysregulation in rats, significantly reducing the abundance of harmful bacteria such as Desulfovibrio, Verrucomicrobiae, and Verrucomicrobia. In addition, puerarin can also reduce the pro-inflammatory factors and increase the level of anti-inflammatory factors in depressed rats, improve the damaged colon tissue, enhance the expression of BDNF and IκB-α in the hippocampus and inhibit the expression of NF-κB.

LIMITATIONS

Direct evidence that puerarin improves depressive-like behaviors via gut microbiota is lacking.

CONCLUSION

The underlying mechanism of puerarin's antidepressant-like effect is closely related to the bidirectional communication of the microbiota-gut-brain axis by regulating the inflammatory response.

Neuroinflammation in neurodegeneration via microbial infections

Recent epidemiological studies show a noticeable correlation between chronic microbial infections and neurological disorders. However, the underlying mechanisms are still not clear due to the biological complexity of multicellular and multiorgan interactions upon microbial infections. In this review, we show the infection leading to neurodegeneration mediated by multiorgan interconnections and neuroinflammation. Firstly, we highlight three inter-organ communications as possible routes from infection sites to the brain: nose-brain axis, lung-brain axis, and gut-brain axis. Next, we described the biological crosstalk between microglia and astrocytes upon pathogenic infection. Finally, our study indicates how neuroinflammation is a critical player in pathogen-mediated neurodegeneration. Taken together, we envision that antibiotics targeting neuro-pathogens could be a potential therapeutic strategy for neurodegeneration.