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Thorens B. Neuronal glucose sensing mechanisms and circuits in the control of insulin and glucagon secretion. Physiol Rev 2024; 104:1461-1486. [PMID: 38661565 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00038.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Glucose homeostasis is mainly under the control of the pancreatic islet hormones insulin and glucagon, which, respectively, stimulate glucose uptake and utilization by liver, fat, and muscle and glucose production by the liver. The balance between the secretions of these hormones is under the control of blood glucose concentrations. Indeed, pancreatic islet β-cells and α-cells can sense variations in glycemia and respond by an appropriate secretory response. However, the secretory activity of these cells is also under multiple additional metabolic, hormonal, and neuronal signals that combine to ensure the perfect control of glycemia over a lifetime. The central nervous system (CNS), which has an almost absolute requirement for glucose as a source of metabolic energy and thus a vital interest in ensuring that glycemic levels never fall below ∼5 mM, is equipped with populations of neurons responsive to changes in glucose concentrations. These neurons control pancreatic islet cell secretion activity in multiple ways: through both branches of the autonomic nervous system, through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and by secreting vasopressin (AVP) in the blood at the level of the posterior pituitary. Here, we present the autonomic innervation of the pancreatic islets; the mechanisms of neuron activation by a rise or a fall in glucose concentration; how current viral tracing, chemogenetic, and optogenetic techniques allow integration of specific glucose sensing neurons in defined neuronal circuits that control endocrine pancreas function; and, finally, how genetic screens in mice can untangle the diversity of the hypothalamic mechanisms controlling the response to hypoglycemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Thorens
- Center for Integrative Genomics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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2
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Sclafani A, Ackroff K. Glucose appetition in C57BL/6J mice: Influence of nonnutritive sweetener experience, food deprivation state and sex differences. Physiol Behav 2024; 283:114596. [PMID: 38815713 PMCID: PMC11246822 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2024.114596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
In addition to its sweet taste, glucose has potent and rapid postoral actions (appetition) that enhance its reward value. This has been demonstrated by the experience-induced preference for glucose over initially preferred nonnutritive sweetener solutions in 24-h choice tests. However, some sweetener solutions (e.g., 0.8% sucralose) have inhibitory postoral actions that may exaggerate glucose appetition whereas others (e.g., 0.1% sucralose + 0.1% saccharin, S+S) do not. Experiment 1 revealed that food-restricted (FR) male C57BL/6J mice displayed similar rapid glucose appetition effects (stimulation of glucose licking within minutes) and conditioned flavor preferences following 1-h experience with flavored 0.8% sucralose or 0.1% S+S and 8% glucose solutions. Thus, the inhibitory effects of 0.8% sucralose observed in 24-h tests were not apparent in 1-h tests. Experiment 2 evaluated the effects of food deprivation state and sweetener concentration on glucose appetition in female mice. Unlike FR mice tested with 0.1% S+S and 8% glucose, ad libitum (AL) fed mice displayed no stimulation of 8% glucose licking in the 1-h tests. A second ad libitum group (AL) tested with 0.2% S+S and 16% glucose solutions displayed stimulation of 16% glucose licking by the third 1-h test. Both AL groups, like the FR group, developed a preference for the glucose-paired flavor over the S+S paired flavor. Thus, food restriction promotes increased glucose licking but is not required for a conditioned preference. The FR male mice (Exp. 1) and FR female mice (Exp. 2) showed similar appetition responses (licking stimulation and flavor preference) to 8% glucose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Sclafani
- Department of Psychology, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York, Brooklyn, NY 11210, USA.
| | - Karen Ackroff
- Department of Psychology, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York, Brooklyn, NY 11210, USA
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Li JP, Ye BL, Li Q, Zhang LL, Zhuang L, Yuan YW. FXR contributes to obstructive jaundice-induced vascular hyporeactivity in mesenteric arteries by reconstituting BK Ca channels. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2024; 48:102448. [PMID: 39159828 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2024.102448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vascular hyporeactivity increases with the incidence of obstructive jaundice (OJ). Evidence suggests that OJ activates the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) as well as the large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BKCa or MaxiK) channel. This study was designed to explore the role of the FXR in vascular hyporesponsiveness induced by cholestasis. METHODS The OJ model rats were constructed by bile duct ligation (BDL) and treated with an FXR agonist or antagonist. Vasoconstriction of the mesenteric arteries (MAs) was assessed in vitro. Whole-cell patch clamp recordings were used to investigate BKCa channel function. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot were used to detect mRNA and protein levels. RESULTS A significant increase in vascular tone and responsiveness to norepinephrine (NE) was observed after the MaxiK channel blocker (IbTX) was administered. This effect was pronounced in BDL animals and can be mimicked by the FXR agonist GW4064 and inhibited by the FXR antagonist Z-guggulsterone (Z-Gu). GW4064 has a similar effect as cholestasis in promoting MaxiK currents in isolated arterial smooth muscle cells (ASMCs), while Z-Gu blunted this effect. The mRNA and protein expression of FXR and MaxiK-β1, but not MaxiK-α, were significantly increased in the BDL group in comparison to the sham. Furthermore, activation or inhibition of FXR promoted or inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of the MaxiK-β1 subunit, respectively. CONCLUSION Activation of FXR enhances the capability of the MaxiK channel to regulate vascular tone and leads to vascular hyporesponsiveness in the MAs of BDL rats, which may be mediated by the nonparallel upregulation of MaxiK-α and MaxiK-β1 subunit expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Ping Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201801, China
| | - Bing-Lu Ye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Le-le Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Lei Zhuang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Ya-Wei Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
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4
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Egan JM. Physiological Integration of Taste and Metabolism. N Engl J Med 2024; 390:1699-1710. [PMID: 38718360 DOI: 10.1056/nejmra2304578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Josephine M Egan
- From the Diabetes Section, Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore
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McMorrow HE, Lorch CM, Hayes NW, Fleps SW, Frydman JA, Xia JL, Samms RJ, Beutler LR. Incretin hormones and pharmacomimetics rapidly inhibit AgRP neuron activity to suppress appetite. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.18.585583. [PMID: 38562891 PMCID: PMC10983981 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.18.585583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Analogs of the incretin hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) have become mainstays of obesity and diabetes management. However, both the physiologic role of incretin hormones in the control of appetite and the pharmacologic mechanisms by which incretin-mimetic drugs suppress caloric intake remain incompletely understood. Hunger-promoting AgRP-expressing neurons are an important hypothalamic population that regulates food intake. Therefore, we set out to determine how incretins analogs affect their activity in vivo. Using fiber photometry, we observed that both GIP receptor (GIPR) and GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonism acutely inhibit AgRP neuron activity in fasted mice and reduce the response of AgRP neurons to food. Moreover, optogenetic stimulation of AgRP neurons partially attenuated incretin-induced feeding suppression, suggesting that AgRP neuron inhibition is necessary for the full appetite-suppressing effects of incretin-based therapeutics. Finally, we found that GIP but not GLP-1 is necessary for nutrient-mediated AgRP neuron inhibition, representing a novel physiologic role for GIP in maintaining energy balance. Taken together, these findings reveal neural mechanisms underlying the efficacy of incretin-mimetic obesity therapies. Understanding these drugs' mechanisms of action is crucial for the development of next-generation obesity pharmacotherapies with an improved therapeutic profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley E McMorrow
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Graduate Program, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Carolyn M Lorch
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Driskill Graduate Program in Life Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nikolas W Hayes
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Graduate Program, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Stefan W Fleps
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joshua A Frydman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jessica L Xia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Ricardo J Samms
- Diabetes, Obesity and Complications Therapeutic Area, Eli Lilly, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Lisa R Beutler
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Lead contact
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Cao Y, Li R, Bai L. Vagal sensory pathway for the gut-brain communication. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 156:228-243. [PMID: 37558522 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
The communication between the gut and brain is crucial for regulating various essential physiological functions, such as energy balance, fluid homeostasis, immune response, and emotion. The vagal sensory pathway plays an indispensable role in connecting the gut to the brain. Recently, our knowledge of the vagal gut-brain axis has significantly advanced through molecular genetic studies, revealing a diverse range of vagal sensory cell types with distinct peripheral innervations, response profiles, and physiological functions. Here, we review the current understanding of how vagal sensory neurons contribute to gut-brain communication. First, we highlight recent transcriptomic and genetic approaches that have characterized different vagal sensory cell types. Then, we focus on discussing how different subtypes encode numerous gut-derived signals and how their activities are translated into physiological and behavioral regulations. The emerging insights into the diverse cell types and functional properties of vagal sensory neurons have paved the way for exciting future directions, which may provide valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets for disorders involving gut-brain communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyun Cao
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Rui Li
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing 102206, China; State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Ling Bai
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing 102206, China.
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7
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Sclafani A, Ackroff K. Glucose appetition in C57BL/6J mice: Influence of nonnutritive sweetener experience, food deprivation state and sex differences. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.27.582331. [PMID: 38464099 PMCID: PMC10925266 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.27.582331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
In addition to its sweet taste, glucose has potent and rapid postoral actions (appetition) that enhance its reward value. This has been demonstrated by the experience-induced preference for glucose over initially preferred nonnutritive sweetener solutions in 24-h choice tests. However, some sweetener solutions (e.g., 0.8% sucralose) have inhibitory postoral actions that may exaggerate glucose appetition whereas others (e.g., 0.1% sucralose + 0.1% saccharin, S+S) do not. Experiment 1 revealed that food-restricted (FR) male C57BL/6J mice displayed similar rapid glucose appetition effects (stimulation of glucose licking within minutes) and conditioned flavor preferences following 1-h experience with flavored 0.8% sucralose or 0.1% S+S and 8% glucose solutions. Thus, the inhibitory effects of 0.8% sucralose observed in 24-h tests were not apparent in 1-h tests. Experiment 2 evaluated the effects of food deprivation state on 1-h glucose appetition. Unlike FR female mice, ad libitum (AL) fed mice displayed no or delayed stimulation of glucose licking depending upon the training solutions used (0.1% S+S vs. 8% glucose, or 0.2% S+S vs. 16% glucose). Both AL groups, like the FR group, developed a preference for the glucose-paired flavor over the S+S paired flavor. Thus, food restriction promotes glucose appetition but is not required for a conditioned preference. Overall, male and female mice showed similar glucose appetition responses although females displayed a more rapid initial glucose response.
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Fan C, Xu J, Tong H, Fang Y, Chen Y, Lin Y, Chen R, Chen F, Wu G. Gut-brain communication mediates the impact of dietary lipids on cognitive capacity. Food Funct 2024; 15:1803-1824. [PMID: 38314832 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo05288e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment, as a prevalent symptom of nervous system disorders, poses one of the most challenging aspects in the management of brain diseases. Lipids present in the cell membranes of all neurons within the brain and dietary lipids can regulate the cognition and memory function. In recent years, the advancements in gut microbiome research have enabled the exploration of dietary lipids targeting the gut-brain axis as a strategy for regulating cognition. This present review provides an in-depth overview of how lipids modulate cognition via the gut-brain axis depending on metabolic, immune, neural and endocrine pathways. It also comprehensively analyzes the effects of diverse lipids on the gut microbiota and intestinal barrier function, thereby affecting the central nervous system and cognitive capacity. Moreover, comparative analysis of the positive and negative effects is presented between beneficial and detrimental lipids. The former encompass monounsaturated fatty acids, short-chain fatty acids, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, phospholipids, phytosterols, fungal sterols and bioactive lipid-soluble vitamins, as well as lipid-derived gut metabolites, whereas the latter (detrimental lipids) include medium- or long-chain fatty acids, excessive proportions of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, industrial trans fatty acids, and zoosterols. To sum up, the focus of this review is on how gut-brain communication mediates the impact of dietary lipids on cognitive capacity, providing a novel theoretical foundation for promoting brain cognitive health and scientific lipid consumption patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenhan Fan
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Jingxuan Xu
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Haoxiang Tong
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Yucheng Fang
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Yiming Chen
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Yangzhuo Lin
- School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Rui Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Fuhao Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Guoqing Wu
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
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Kraimi N, Ross T, Pujo J, De Palma G. The gut microbiome in disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2360233. [PMID: 38949979 PMCID: PMC11218806 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2360233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), chronic disorders characterized by either abdominal pain, altered intestinal motility, or their combination, have a worldwide prevalence of more than 40% and impose a high socioeconomic burden with a significant decline in quality of life. Recently, FGIDs have been reclassified as disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI), reflecting the key role of the gut-brain bidirectional communication in these disorders and their impact on psychological comorbidities. Although, during the past decades, the field of DGBIs has advanced significantly, the molecular mechanisms underlying DGBIs pathogenesis and pathophysiology, and the role of the gut microbiome in these processes are not fully understood. This review aims to discuss the latest body of literature on the complex microbiota-gut-brain interactions and their implications in the pathogenesis of DGBIs. A better understanding of the existing communication pathways between the gut microbiome and the brain holds promise in developing effective therapeutic interventions for DGBIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narjis Kraimi
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Taylor Ross
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Julien Pujo
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Giada De Palma
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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Schwarz A, Hernandez L, Arefin S, Sartirana E, Witasp A, Wernerson A, Stenvinkel P, Kublickiene K. Sweet, bloody consumption - what we eat and how it affects vascular ageing, the BBB and kidney health in CKD. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2341449. [PMID: 38686499 PMCID: PMC11062370 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2341449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
In today's industrialized society food consumption has changed immensely toward heightened red meat intake and use of artificial sweeteners instead of grains and vegetables or sugar, respectively. These dietary changes affect public health in general through an increased incidence of metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity, with a further elevated risk for cardiorenal complications. Research shows that high red meat intake and artificial sweeteners ingestion can alter the microbial composition and further intestinal wall barrier permeability allowing increased transmission of uremic toxins like p-cresyl sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, trimethylamine n-oxide and phenylacetylglutamine into the blood stream causing an array of pathophysiological effects especially as a strain on the kidneys, since they are responsible for clearing out the toxins. In this review, we address how the burden of the Western diet affects the gut microbiome in altering the microbial composition and increasing the gut permeability for uremic toxins and the detrimental effects thereof on early vascular aging, the kidney per se and the blood-brain barrier, in addition to the potential implications for dietary changes/interventions to preserve the health issues related to chronic diseases in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina Schwarz
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Leah Hernandez
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Samsul Arefin
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisa Sartirana
- Department of Translational Medicine, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Unit, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Anna Witasp
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Annika Wernerson
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Stenvinkel
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Renal Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karolina Kublickiene
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Yan M, Man S, Sun B, Ma L, Guo L, Huang L, Gao W. Gut liver brain axis in diseases: the implications for therapeutic interventions. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:443. [PMID: 38057297 PMCID: PMC10700720 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01673-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Gut-liver-brain axis is a three-way highway of information interaction system among the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and nervous systems. In the past few decades, breakthrough progress has been made in the gut liver brain axis, mainly through understanding its formation mechanism and increasing treatment strategies. In this review, we discuss various complex networks including barrier permeability, gut hormones, gut microbial metabolites, vagus nerve, neurotransmitters, immunity, brain toxic metabolites, β-amyloid (Aβ) metabolism, and epigenetic regulation in the gut-liver-brain axis. Some therapies containing antibiotics, probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), polyphenols, low FODMAP diet and nanotechnology application regulate the gut liver brain axis. Besides, some special treatments targeting gut-liver axis include farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonists, takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5) agonists, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor antagonists and fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) analogs. Targeting gut-brain axis embraces cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), antidepressants and tryptophan metabolism-related therapies. Targeting liver-brain axis contains epigenetic regulation and Aβ metabolism-related therapies. In the future, a better understanding of gut-liver-brain axis interactions will promote the development of novel preventative strategies and the discovery of precise therapeutic targets in multiple diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, 300457, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuli Man
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, 300457, Tianjin, China.
| | - Benyue Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, 300457, Tianjin, China
| | - Long Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, 300457, Tianjin, China
| | - Lanping Guo
- National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, 100700, Beijing, China.
| | - Luqi Huang
- National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, 100700, Beijing, China
| | - Wenyuan Gao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Weijin Road, 300072, Tianjin, China.
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12
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Nyema NT, McKnight AD, Vargas-Elvira AG, Schneps HM, Gold EG, Myers KP, Alhadeff AL. AgRP neuron activity promotes associations between sensory and nutritive signals to guide flavor preference. Mol Metab 2023; 78:101833. [PMID: 37925021 PMCID: PMC10665654 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2023.101833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The learned associations between sensory cues (e.g., taste, smell) and nutritive value (e.g., calories, post-ingestive signaling) of foods powerfully influences our eating behavior [1], but the neural circuits that mediate these associations are not well understood. Here, we examined the role of agouti-related protein (AgRP)-expressing neurons - neurons which are critical drivers of feeding behavior [2; 3] - in mediating flavor-nutrient learning (FNL). METHODS Because mice prefer flavors associated with AgRP neuron activity suppression [4], we examined how optogenetic stimulation of AgRP neurons during intake influences FNL, and used fiber photometry to determine how endogenous AgRP neuron activity tracks associations between flavors and nutrients. RESULTS We unexpectedly found that tonic activity in AgRP neurons during FNL potentiated, rather than prevented, the development of flavor preferences. There were notable sex differences in the mechanisms for this potentiation. Specifically, in male mice, AgRP neuron activity increased flavor consumption during FNL training, thereby strengthening the association between flavors and nutrients. In female mice, AgRP neuron activity enhanced flavor-nutrient preferences independently of consumption during training, suggesting that AgRP neuron activity enhances the reward value of the nutrient-paired flavor. Finally, in vivo neural activity analyses demonstrated that acute AgRP neuron dynamics track the association between flavors and nutrients in both sexes. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these data (1) demonstrate that AgRP neuron activity enhances associations between flavors and nutrients in a sex-dependent manner and (2) reveal that AgRP neurons track and rapidly update these associations. Taken together, our findings provide new insight into the role of AgRP neurons in assimilating sensory and nutritive signals for food reinforcement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel T Nyema
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Aaron D McKnight
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - Heather M Schneps
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | | | - Amber L Alhadeff
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Lai TT, Liou CW, Tsai YH, Lin YY, Wu WL. Butterflies in the gut: the interplay between intestinal microbiota and stress. J Biomed Sci 2023; 30:92. [PMID: 38012609 PMCID: PMC10683179 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-023-00984-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychological stress is a global issue that affects at least one-third of the population worldwide and increases the risk of numerous psychiatric disorders. Accumulating evidence suggests that the gut and its inhabiting microbes may regulate stress and stress-associated behavioral abnormalities. Hence, the objective of this review is to explore the causal relationships between the gut microbiota, stress, and behavior. Dysbiosis of the microbiome after stress exposure indicated microbial adaption to stressors. Strikingly, the hyperactivated stress signaling found in microbiota-deficient rodents can be normalized by microbiota-based treatments, suggesting that gut microbiota can actively modify the stress response. Microbiota can regulate stress response via intestinal glucocorticoids or autonomic nervous system. Several studies suggest that gut bacteria are involved in the direct modulation of steroid synthesis and metabolism. This review provides recent discoveries on the pathways by which gut microbes affect stress signaling and brain circuits and ultimately impact the host's complex behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Ting Lai
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Rd., Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Rd., Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wei Liou
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Rd., Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Rd., Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsuan Tsai
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Rd., Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Rd., Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Yuan Lin
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Rd., Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Li Wu
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Rd., Tainan, 70101, Taiwan.
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Rd., Tainan, 70101, Taiwan.
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Canna A, Cantone E, Roefs A, Franssen S, Prinster A, Formisano E, Di Salle F, Esposito F. Functional MRI activation of the nucleus tractus solitarius after taste stimuli at ultra-high field: a proof-of-concept single-subject study. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1173316. [PMID: 37955018 PMCID: PMC10637550 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1173316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Using ultra-high field (7 Tesla) functional MRI (fMRI), we conducted the first in-vivo functional neuroimaging study of the normal human brainstem specifically designed to examine neural signals in the Nucleus Tractus Solitarius (NTS) in response to all basic taste stimuli. NTS represents the first relay station along the mammalian taste processing pathway which originates at the taste buds in the oral cavity and passes through the thalamus before reaching the primary taste cortex in the brain. In our proof-of-concept study, we acquired data from one adult volunteer using fMRI at 1.2 mm isotropic resolution and performed a univariate general linear model analysis. During fMRI acquisition, three shuffled injections of sweet, bitter, salty, sour, and umami solutions were administered following an event-related design. We observed a statistically significant blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) response in the anatomically predicted location of the NTS for all five basic tastes. The results of this study appear statistically robust, even though they were obtained from a single volunteer. The information derived from a similar experimental strategy may inspire novel research aimed at clarifying important details of central nervous system involvement in eating disorders, at designing and monitoring tailored therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Canna
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Elena Cantone
- Section of ENT, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, "Federico II" University, Napoli, Italy
| | - Anne Roefs
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Sieske Franssen
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Anna Prinster
- Biostructure and Bioimaging Institute, National Research Council, Napoli, Italy
| | - Elia Formisano
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Francesco Di Salle
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, University Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona", Salerno, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Esposito
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli”, Napoli, Italy
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Nyema NT, McKnight AD, Vargas-Elvira AG, Schneps HM, Gold EG, Myers KP, Alhadeff AL. AgRP neuron activity promotes associations between sensory and nutritive signals to guide flavor preference. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.19.558483. [PMID: 37786670 PMCID: PMC10541598 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.19.558483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Objective The learned associations between sensory cues (e.g., taste, smell) and nutritive value (e.g., calories, post-ingestive signaling) of foods powerfully influences our eating behavior [1], but the neural circuits that mediate these associations are not well understood. Here, we examined the role of agouti-related protein (AgRP)-expressing neurons - neurons which are critical drivers of feeding behavior [2; 3] - in mediating flavor-nutrient learning (FNL). Methods Because mice prefer flavors associated with AgRP neuron activity suppression [4], we examined how optogenetic stimulation of AgRP neurons during intake influences FNL, and used fiber photometry to determine how endogenous AgRP neuron activity tracks associations between flavors and nutrients. Results We unexpectedly found that tonic activity in AgRP neurons during FNL potentiated, rather than prevented, the development of flavor preferences. There were notable sex differences in the mechanisms for this potentiation. Specifically, in male mice, AgRP neuron activity increased flavor consumption during FNL training, thereby strengthening the association between flavors and nutrients. In female mice, AgRP neuron activity enhanced flavor-nutrient preferences independently of consumption during training, suggesting that AgRP neuron activity enhances the reward value of the nutrient-paired flavor. Finally, in vivo neural activity analyses demonstrated that acute AgRP neuron dynamics track the association between flavors and nutrients in both sexes. Conclusions Overall, these data (1) demonstrate that AgRP neuron activity enhances associations between flavors and nutrients in a sex-dependent manner and (2) reveal that AgRP neurons track and update these associations on fast timescales. Taken together, our findings provide new insight into the role of AgRP neurons in assimilating sensory and nutritive signals for food reinforcement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel T. Nyema
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Aaron D. McKnight
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | | | - Heather M. Schneps
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | | | | | - Amber L. Alhadeff
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
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16
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Song Z, Song R, Liu Y, Wu Z, Zhang X. Effects of ultra-processed foods on the microbiota-gut-brain axis: The bread-and-butter issue. Food Res Int 2023; 167:112730. [PMID: 37087282 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.112730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
The topic of gut microbiota and the microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis has become the forefront of research and reports in the past few years. The gut microbiota is a dynamic interface between the environment, food, and the host, reflecting the health status as well as maintaining normal physiological metabolism. Modern ultra-processed foods (UPF) contain large quantities of saturated and trans fat, added sugar, salt, and food additives that seriously affect the gut and physical health. In addition, these unhealthy components directly cause changes in gut microbiota functions and microbial metabolism, subsequently having the potential to impact the neural network. This paper reviews an overview of the link between UPF ingredients and the MGB axis. Considerable studies have examined that high intake of trans fat, added sugar and salt have deleterious effects on gut and brain functions, but relatively less focus has been placed on the impact of food additives on the MGB axis. Data from several studies suggest that food additives might be linked to metabolic diseases and inflammation. They may also alter the gut microbiota composition and microbial metabolites, which potentially affect cognition and behavior. Therefore, we emphasize that food additives including emulsifiers, artificial sweeteners, colorants, and preservatives interact with the gut microbiota and their possible effects on altering the brain and behavior based on the latest research. Future studies should further investigate whether gut dysbiosis mediates the effect of UPF on brain diseases and behavior. This thesis here sheds new light on future research pointing to the potentially detrimental effects of processed food consumption on brain health.
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Li C, Xiao N, Deng N, Li D, Tan Z, Peng M. Dose of sucrose affects the efficacy of Qiweibaizhu powder on antibiotic-associated diarrhea: Association with intestinal mucosal microbiota, short-chain fatty acids, IL-17, and MUC2. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1108398. [PMID: 36744095 PMCID: PMC9893413 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1108398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Due to the poor taste of Qiweibaizhu powder (QWBZP), patients have difficulty taking medicine, which leads to poor compliance and limits clinical use to a certain extent. In the trend of restricting sugar intake, sweeteners have gained massive popularity, among which sucrose is a commonly used sweetener in preparations. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different sucrose dose addition with antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) by intervened QWBZP on intestinal mucosal microbiota. Methods Thirty specific-pathogen-free (SPF) Kunming (KM) male mice were randomly divided into normal group (N), natural recovery group (M), QWBZP group (Q), low dose sucrose group (LQ), medium dose sucrose group (MQ), and high dose sucrose group (HQ). Subsequently, 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and GC-MS techniques were used to analyze the intestinal mucosal microbiota and short-chain fatty acid (SCFAs) in intestinal contents, respectively, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine mucin 2 (MUC2) and interleukin 17 (IL-17). Results Compared with the Q group, the results showed that with the increase of sucrose dose, the intestinal microbial structure of mice was significantly altered, and the intestinal microbial diversity was elevated, with the poor restoration of the intestinal biological barrier, decreased content of SCFAs, high expression of inflammatory factor IL-17 and decreased content of mucosal protective factor MUC2. In conclusion, we found that the addition of sucrose had an effect on the efficacy of the AAD intervented by QWBZP, which was less effective than QWBZP, showing a certain dose-response relationship. In this experiment, it was concluded that the addition of sucrose might also further lead to intestinal inflammation and the disruption of the intestinal mucosal barrier, and the production of metabolites SCFAs. Discussion The addition of sucrose might also further lead to intestinal inflammation and the disruption of the intestinal mucosal barrier, and the production of metabolites SCFAs. However, these findings still need to be verified in a more extensive study. The effect of adding the sweetener sucrose on the efficacy of Chinese herbal medicine in treating diseases also still needs more research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuiru Li
- College of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Nenqun Xiao
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Na Deng
- College of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Dandan Li
- College of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Zhoujin Tan
- College of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China,*Correspondence: Zhoujin Tan,
| | - Maijiao Peng
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China,Maijiao Peng,
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Stojanović O, Miguel-Aliaga I, Trajkovski M. Intestinal plasticity and metabolism as regulators of organismal energy homeostasis. Nat Metab 2022; 4:1444-1458. [PMID: 36396854 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-022-00679-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The small intestine displays marked anatomical and functional plasticity that includes adaptive alterations in adult gut morphology, enteroendocrine cell profile and their hormone secretion, as well as nutrient utilization and storage. In this Perspective, we examine how shifts in dietary and environmental conditions bring about changes in gut size, and describe how the intestine adapts to changes in internal state, bowel resection and gastric bypass surgery. We highlight the critical importance of these intestinal remodelling processes in maintaining energy balance of the organism, and in protecting the metabolism of other organs. The intestinal resizing is supported by changes in the microbiota composition, and by activation of carbohydrate and fatty acid metabolism, which govern the intestinal stem cell proliferation, intestinal cell fate, as well as survivability of differentiated epithelial cells. The discovery that intestinal remodelling is part of the normal physiological adaptation to various triggers, and the potential for harnessing the reversible gut plasticity, in our view, holds extraordinary promise for developing therapeutic approaches against metabolic and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozren Stojanović
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Centre Medical Universitaire (CMU), Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Diabetes Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Irene Miguel-Aliaga
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, London, UK.
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - Mirko Trajkovski
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Centre Medical Universitaire (CMU), Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Diabetes Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
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