The pros, cons, and many unknowns of probiotics

Surface nanocoating-based universal platform for programmed delivery of microorganisms in complicated digestive tract

Microbial therapies have promising applications in the treatment of a broad range of diseases. However, effective colonization of the target region by therapeutic microorganisms remains a significant challenge owing to the complexity of the intestinal system. Here, we developed surface nanocoating-based universal platform (SNUP), which enabled the manipulation of controlled release and targeted colonization of therapeutic microbes in the digestive tract without the utilization of any targeting molecules. The system controlled the decomposition time of SNUP in the gut by regulating different modification layers and modification sequences on the microorganism's surface, so that the microorganism was released at a predetermined time and space. With the SNUP nanomodification technology, we could effectively deliver therapeutic microorganisms to specific complex intestinal regions such as the small intestine and colon, and protect the bioactivity of therapeutic microorganisms from destruction by both strong acids and digestive enzymes. In this study, we found that two layers SNUP-encapsulated Liiliilactobacillus salivarius (LS@CCMC) could efficiently colonize the small intestine and significantly improve the symptoms of a mouse model of Parkinson's disease through sustained secretion of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This surface nanocoating-based universal platform system does not require the design of specific targeting molecules, providing a simple and universal method for colonized microbial therapy, target theranostics, precision medicine, and personalized medicine.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG coating with nanocomposite ameliorates intestinal inflammation

The steady increase in the prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is regarded as a worldwide health issue. Gut microorganisms could modulate host immune and metabolic status and are associated with health effects. Probiotics, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), are beneficial microorganisms that ameliorate disease and exert advantageous effects on intestinal homeostasis. However, the viability of probiotics will suffer from various risk factors in the digestive tract. In this view, we developed a probiotic coating with nanocomposite using tannic acid (TA) and casein phosphopeptide (CPP) through layer-by-layer technology to overcome the challenges after oral administration. LGG showed an improved survival rate in simulated gastrointestinal conditions after coated. The coating (LGG/TA-Mg2+/CPP) had potent reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging ability and improved the survival rate of colorectal epithelial cells after H2O2 stimulation. In DSS-induced colitis, administration of LGG/TA-Mg2+/CPP ameliorated intestinal inflammation and reduced the disruption of barrier function. Furthermore, LGG/TA-Mg2+/CPP increased the abundance and diversity of the gut microbiota. In the mouse model of DSS colitis, LGG/TA-Mg2+/CPP can better activate the EGFR/AKT signaling pathway, thereby protecting the epithelial barrier function of the colon epithelium. In conclusion, the probiotic coating with nanocomposite may become a delivery platform for probiotics applied to IBD.

Exploring the gut-brain Axis: Potential therapeutic impact of Psychobiotics on mental health

One of the most challenging and controversial issues in microbiome research is related to gut microbial metabolism and neuropsychological disorders. Psychobiotics affect human behavior and central nervous system processes via the gut-brain axis, involving neuronal, immune, and metabolic pathways. They have therapeutic potential in the treatment of several neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders such as depression, anxiety, autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, Huntington's disease, anorexia nervosa, and multiple sclerosis. However, the mechanisms underlying the interaction between psychobiotics and the abovementioned diseases need further exploration. This review focuses on the relationship between gut microbiota and its impact on neurological and neurodegenerative disorders, examining the potential of psychobiotics as a preventive and therapeutic approach, summarising recent research on the gut-brain axis and the potential beneficial effects of psychobiotics, highlighting the need for further research and investigation in this area.

Limosilactobacillus fermentum HNU312 alleviates lipid accumulation and inflammation induced by a high-fat diet: improves lipid metabolism pathways and increases short-chain fatty acids in the gut microbiome

A high-fat diet can cause health problems, such as hyperlipidemia, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders. Dietary supplementation with beneficial microbes might reduce the detrimental effects of a high-fat diet by modulating the gut microbiome, metabolic pathways and metabolites. This study assessed the effects of Limosilactobacillus fermentum HNU312 (L. fermentum HNU312) on blood lipid levels, fat accumulation, inflammation and the gut microbiome in mice on a high-fat diet. The results indicate that L. fermentum HNU312 supplementation to high-fat diet-fed mice led to decreases of 7.52% in the final body weight, 22.30% in total triglyceride, 24.87% in total cholesterol, and 27.3% in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Furthermore, the addition of L. fermentum HNU312 significantly reduced the fat accumulation in the liver and adipose tissue by 18.99% and 32.55%, respectively, and decreased chronic inflammation induced by a high-fat diet. Further analysis of the gut microbiome revealed that on the one hand, L. fermentum HNU312 changed the structure of the intestinal microbiota, increased the abundance of beneficial intestinal bacteria related to lipid metabolism, and reversed the enrichment of lipid-related metabolic pathways. On the other hand, L. fermentum HNU312 increased the production of short-chain fatty acids, which can reduce liver inflammation and chronic inflammation induced by a high-fat diet. In summary, by regulating gut microbiota, L. fermentum HNU312 improved lipid metabolism pathways and increased short-chain fatty acids, which reduced body weight, blood lipids, fat accumulation and chronic inflammation caused by high-fat diets. Therefore, L. fermentum HNU312 could be a good candidate probiotic for ameliorating metabolic syndrome.

Probiotics functionalized with a gallium-polyphenol network modulate the intratumor microbiota and promote anti-tumor immune responses in pancreatic cancer

The intratumor microbiome imbalance in pancreatic cancer promotes a tolerogenic immune response and triggers immunotherapy resistance. Here we show that Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG probiotics, outfitted with a gallium-polyphenol network (LGG@Ga-poly), bolster immunotherapy in pancreatic cancer by modulating microbiota-immune interactions. Upon oral administration, LGG@Ga-poly targets pancreatic tumors specifically, and selectively eradicates tumor-promoting Proteobacteria and microbiota-derived lipopolysaccharides through a gallium-facilitated disruption of bacterial iron respiration. This elimination of intratumor microbiota impedes the activation of tumoral Toll-like receptors, thus reducing immunosuppressive PD-L1 and interleukin-1β expression by tumor cells, diminishing immunotolerant myeloid populations, and improving the infiltration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes in tumors. Moreover, LGG@Ga-poly hampers pancreatic tumor growth in both preventive and therapeutic contexts, and amplifies the antitumor efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade in preclinical cancer models in female mice. Overall, we offer evidence that thoughtfully designed biomaterials targeting intratumor microbiota can efficaciously augment immunotherapy for the challenging pancreatic cancer.

Dysbiosis promotes recurrence of adenomatous polyps in the distal colorectum

BACKGROUND

Colorectal polyps, which are characterized by a high recurrence rate, represent preneoplastic conditions of the intestine. Due to unclear mechanisms of pathogenesis, first-line therapies for non-hereditary recurrent colorectal polyps are limited to endoscopic resection. Although recent studies suggest a mechanistic link between intestinal dysbiosis and polyps, the exact compositions and roles of bacteria in the mucosa around the lesions, rather than feces, remain unsettled.

AIM

To clarify the composition and diversity of bacteria in the mucosa surrounding or 10 cm distal to recurrent intestinal polyps.

METHODS

Mucosal samples were collected from four patients consistently with adenomatous polyps (Ade), seven consistently with non-Ade (Pol), ten with current Pol but previous Ade, and six healthy individuals, and bacterial patterns were evaluated by 16S rDNA sequencing. Linear discriminant analysis and Student's t-tests were used to identify the genus-level bacteria differences between groups with different colorectal polyp phenotypes. Pearson's correlation coefficients were used to evaluate the correlation between intestinal bacteria at the genus level and clinical indicators.

RESULTS

The results confirmed a decreased level of probiotics and an enrichment of pathogenic bacteria in patients with all types of polyps compared to healthy individuals. These changes were not restricted to the mucosa within 0.5 cm adjacent to the polyps, but also existed in histologically normal tissue 10 cm distal from the lesions. Significant differences in bacterial diversity were observed in the mucosa from individuals with normal conditions, Pol, and Ade. Increased abundance of Gram-negative bacteria, including Klebsiella, Plesiomonas, and Cronobacter, was observed in Pol group and Ade group, suggesting that resistance to antibiotics may be one risk factor for bacterium-related harmful environment. Meanwhile, age and gender were linked to bacteria changes, indicating the potential involvement of sex hormones.

CONCLUSION

These preliminary results support intestinal dysbiosis as an important risk factor for recurrent polyps, especially adenoma. Targeting specific pathogenic bacteria may attenuate the recurrence of polyps.

Differential Age-Based Response Induced by a Commercial Probiotic Supplementation in Pastured Goats

The potential benefit of probiotics in small ruminant production systems has largely been unexplored. We evaluated the effect of a goat commercial probiotic on health and performance indicators in pastured goats from birth until 10 months. We randomly allocated 26 newborn nursing goat kids to two groups: a control group that received saline and a treatment group that received a commercial probiotic paste orally. We evaluated select observable health indicators (inappetence, diarrhea, coughing), weight, immunity (IgA, IgG, and innate immune response), total protein, hematocrit (HCT), total lactic acid bacteria (LAB), total coliforms, and prevalence of Escherichia coli (E. coli) primary virulence genes (stx1, stx2, and eae) during the experimental period. The results revealed no significant differences in the health indicators, LAB count, and total E. coli count. Prevalence of stx1 at 1 week of age and both stx1 and stx2 genes 4 months post-weaning was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in probiotic-supplemented goats. Probiotic supplementation significantly (P < 0.05) increased the total protein and IgA 1 month post-supplementation during the pre-weaning period and innate immune markers 2 days post-weaning. The HCT in probiotic-supplemented goats was significantly (P < 0.05) higher at 1 and 2 months post-weaning. The growth rate was not affected by probiotic supplementation in pre- and peri-weaned goats but was significantly (P < 0.05) lowered in goats older than 4 months in the supplemented group. In this pastured goat production study, there were mixed responses to a commercial probiotic in healthy goats based on age. The study suggests that early daily probiotic supplementation in pre-weaned pastured goats may have immune stimulation benefits, but in older healthy animals, post-weaning net benefits are unclear and further research is recommended.

Probiotics in Traumatic Brain Injury: New Insights into Mechanisms and Future Perspectives

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious global public health issue, recognized as a chronic and progressive disease that can affect multiple organs, including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Research shows that there is a specific link between the GI tract and the central nervous system, termed the gut-brain axis, which consists of bidirectional exchange between these two. Several preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated intestinal barrier dysfunction, intestinal inflammation and gut dysbiosis in patients with TBI. It is proven that probiotics can modulate the inflammatory process and modify gut microbiota. Numerous animal studies and human clinical trials have proven the effectiveness of selected bacterial strains as an adjuvant treatment in reducing inflammation, infection rates and time spent in intensive care of hospitalized patients suffering from brain injury. Thus, this review summarizes the current evidence regarding the beneficial effects of probiotic administration in patients suffering from TBI-related complications. This review will help identify novel therapeutic strategies in the future as probiotics have an extensive history of apparently safe use.

Clickable nanozyme enhances precise colonization of probiotics for ameliorating inflammatory bowel disease

Convincing evidence suggests that aberrant gut microbiota changes play a critical role in the progression and pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Probiotic therapeutic interventions targeting the microbiota may provide alternative avenues to treat IBD, but currently available probiotics often suffer from low intestinal colonization and limited targeting capability. Here, we developed azido (N3)-modified Prussian blue nanozyme (PB@N3) spatio-temporal guidance enhances the targeted colonization of probiotics to alleviate intestinal inflammation. First, clickable PB@N3 targets intestinal inflammation, simultaneously, it scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS). Subsequently, utilizing "click" chemistry to spatio-temporally guide targeted colonization of dibenzocyclooctyne (DBCO)-modified Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (LR@DBCO). The "click" reaction between PB@N3 and LR@DBCO has excellent specificity and efficacy both in vivo and in vitro. Despite the complex physiological environment of IBD, "click" reaction can prolong the retention time of probiotics in the intestine. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mice model, demonstrates that the combination of PB@N3 and LR@DBCO effectively mitigates levels of ROS, enhances the colonization of probiotics, modulates intestinal flora composition and function, regulates immune profiles, restores intestinal barrier function, and alleviates intestinal inflammation. Hence, PB@N3 spatio-temporal guidance enhances targeted colonization of LR@DBCO provides a promising medical treatment strategy for IBD.

Beyond the Gut: The intratumoral microbiome's influence on tumorigenesis and treatment response

The intratumoral microbiome (TM) refers to the microorganisms in the tumor tissues, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and so on, and is distinct from the gut microbiome and circulating microbiota. TM is strongly associated with tumorigenesis, progression, metastasis, and response to therapy. This paper highlights the current status of TM. Tract sources, adjacent normal tissue, circulatory system, and concomitant tumor co-metastasis are the main origin of TM. The advanced techniques in TM analysis are comprehensively summarized. Besides, TM is involved in tumor progression through several mechanisms, including DNA damage, activation of oncogenic signaling pathways (phosphoinositide 3-kinase [PI3K], signal transducer and activator of transcription [STAT], WNT/β-catenin, and extracellular regulated protein kinases [ERK]), influence of cytokines and induce inflammatory responses, and interaction with the tumor microenvironment (anti-tumor immunity, pro-tumor immunity, and microbial-derived metabolites). Moreover, promising directions of TM in tumor therapy include immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, the application of probiotics/prebiotics/synbiotics, fecal microbiome transplantation, engineered microbiota, phage therapy, and oncolytic virus therapy. The inherent challenges of clinical application are also summarized. This review provides a comprehensive landscape for analyzing TM, especially the TM-related mechanisms and TM-based treatment in cancer.

Genetic Connectivity of Gut Microbiota and Oral Ulcers: A Mendelian Randomization Study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to reveal the relationship, if any, between gut microbiota and oral ulcers.

METHODS

We performed a 2-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study to estimate the roles of gut microbiota in mouth ulcers. The summary datasets of gut microbiota were from the largest genome-wide association study (GWAS) conducted by MiBioGen, and data of mouth ulcers were obtained from UK Biobank. Random effect inverse variance-weighted, weighted median, MR Egger, simple mode and weighted mode were used to estimate the relationship. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the heterogeneity and pleiotropy of instrumental variables. MR Steiger filtering was also applied to orient the causal direction.

RESULTS

Three gut microbiota taxa were positively associated with mouth ulcers: Holdemania (odds ratio [OR] = 1.005, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.001-1.009, P = .019), Oxalobacter (OR = 1.004, 95% CI: 1.000-1.007, P = .032), and Ruminococcaceae UCG011 (OR = 1.006, 95% CI: 1.001-1.011, P = .029), while 4 gut microbiota taxa were negatively associated with mouth ulcers: Actinobacteria (OR = 0.992, 95% CI: 0.985-1.000, P = .042), Lactobacillales (OR = 0.995, 95% CI: 0.990-1.000, P = .034), Oscillospira (OR = 0.990, 95% CI: 0.984-0.997, P = .007) and Phascolarctobacterium (OR = 0.992, 95% CI: 0.986-0.997, P = .003). Sensitivity analyses validated the robustness of the association in between.

CONCLUSIONS

This MR study identified a strong association between the quality of gut microbiota and oral ulcers. The findings are likely to expand the therapeutic targets for mouth ulcers.

Intestinal Delivery of Probiotics: Materials, Strategies, and Applications

Probiotics with diverse and crucial properties and functions have attracted broad interest from many researchers, who adopt intestinal delivery of probiotics to modulate the gut microbiota. However, the major problems faced for the therapeutic applications of probiotics are the viability and colonization of probiotics during their processing, oral intake, and subsequent delivery to the gut. The challenges of simple oral delivery (stability, controllability, targeting, etc.) have greatly limited the use of probiotics in clinical therapies. Nanotechnology can endow the probiotics to be delivered to the intestine with improved survival rate and increased resistance to the adverse environment. Additionally, the progress in synthetic biology has created new opportunities for efficiently and purposefully designing and manipulating the probiotics. In this article, a brief overview of the types of probiotics for intestinal delivery, the current progress of different probiotic encapsulation strategies, including the chemical, physical, and genetic strategies and their combinations, and the emerging single-cell encapsulation strategies using nanocoating methods, is presented. The action mechanisms of probiotics that are responsible for eliciting beneficial effects are also briefly discussed. Finally, the therapeutic applications of engineered probiotics are discussed, and the future trends toward developing engineered probiotics with advanced features and improved health benefits are proposed.

Probiotics and the reduction of SARS-CoV-2 infection through regulation of host cell calcium dynamics

Calcium is a secondary messenger that interacts with several cellular proteins, regulates various physiological processes, and plays a role in diseases such as viral infections. Next-generation probiotics and live biotherapeutic products are linked to the regulation of intracellular calcium levels. Some viruses can manipulate calcium channels, pumps, and membrane receptors to alter calcium influx and promote virion production and release. In this study, we examined the use of bacteria for the prevention and treatment of viral diseases, such as coronavirus of 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Vaccination programs have helped reduce disease severity; however, there is still a lack of well-recognized drug regimens for the clinical management of COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 interacts with the host cell calcium (Ca2+), manipulates proteins, and disrupts Ca2+ homeostasis. This article explores how viruses exploit, create, or exacerbate calcium imbalances, and the potential role of probiotics in mitigating viral infections by modulating calcium signaling. Pharmacological strategies have been developed to prevent viral replication and block the calcium channels that serve as viral receptors. Alternatively, probiotics may interact with cellular calcium influx, such as Lactobacillus spp. The interaction between Akkermansia muciniphila and cellular calcium homeostasis is evident. A scientific basis for using probiotics to manipulate calcium channel activity needs to be established for the treatment and prevention of viral diseases while maintaining calcium homeostasis. In this review article, we discuss how intracellular calcium signaling can affect viral replication and explore the potential therapeutic benefits of probiotics.

A thiolated oxidized guar gum and sodium alginate dual-network microspheres with enhanced gastric acid resistance and mucoadhesion for delivery of probiotics

Probiotics offer numerous beneficial functions for human bodies, while the low survival rate under gastric acid and short retention time in the intestine are the major obstacles to their utilization. To address these issues, we designed a novel dual-network hydrogel microsphere that combines gastric acid resistance with enhanced mucoadhesion, aiming for the targeted delivery of probiotics. Thiolated oxidized guar gum (SOGG) was disulfide-linked to form the first network, and sodium alginate (SA) was cross-linked with Ca2+ to form the second network. Under the protection of the interpenetrating dual network microspheres, a much higher viability of Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) (8.73 log CFU/mL) was achieved in simulated gastric fluid, compared to the zero-survival rate of free LGG. Mucoadhesion tests showed that the adhesion rate of SOGG/SA microspheres to the intestinal mucosa was 1.75 times higher than that of thiol-free microspheres. In vivo studies revealed that LGG-loaded microspheres significantly enhanced intestinal barrier function, remodeled the gut microbiome, and alleviated DSS-induced colitis in mice. Overall, SOGG/SA microspheres provide an effective strategy to the challenges of probiotic reduction in the stomach and rapid expulsion from the intestines, enhancing their health benefits.

Effect of probiotics on pregnancy outcomes in gestational diabetes: systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a prevalent complication during pregnancy associated with numerous adverse outcomes. There is emerging evidence suggesting the potential of probiotics as a therapeutic measure for GDM; however, existing studies have yielded contradictory results. This meta-analysis assessed the efficacy of probiotics on blood glucose management and pregnancy outcomes in patients with GDM.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases was conducted up to August 22, 2023, to identify relevant studies. The primary outcomes focused on fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting serum insulin (FSI), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI). The secondary outcomes included various maternal and neonatal outcomes.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis included 15 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), encompassing 1006 patients with GDM. The results showed that, compared to a placebo, probiotics demonstrated a significant reduction in FBG (MD - 2.58, 95% CI - 4.38 to - 0.79, p < 0.01), FSI (MD - 2.29, 95% CI - 3.40 to - 1.18, p < 0.01), HOMA-IR (MD - 0.56, 95% CI - 0.81 to - 0.32, p < 0.01), and birth weight (MD - 101.20, 95% CI - 184.62 to - 17.77, p = 0.02). Furthermore, it resulted in fewer neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions (RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.40-0.89, p = 0.01), instances of hyperbilirubinemia (RR 0.31, 95% CI 0.16-0.61, p < 0.01), and elevated QUICKI (MD 0.01, 95% CI 0.00-0.01, p < 0.01). No significant impact was observed in the other analyzed outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, probiotics improve FBG, FSI, and HOMA-IR, and reduce the occurrence of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, NICU admissions, and birth weight in the offspring of patients with GDM. However, the quality of the evidence, as per the GRADE approach, varies from high to low, necessitating further studies to consolidate these findings.

Dietary Commensal Wrestles Iron from Tumor Microenvironment to Activate Antitumoral Macrophages

The microbiome dictates the response to cancer immunotherapy efficacy. However, the mechanisms of how the microbiota impacts therapy efficacy remain poorly understood. In a recent issue of Nature Immunology, Sharma and colleagues elucidate a multifaceted, macrophage-driven mechanism exerted by a specific strain of fermented food commensal plantarum strain IMB19, LpIMB19. LpIMB19 activates tumor macrophages, resulting in the enhancement of cytotoxic cluster differentiation 8 (CD8) T cells. LpIMB19 administration led to an expansion of tumor-infiltrating CD8 T cells and improved the efficacy of anti-PD-L1 therapy. Rhamnose-rich heteropolysaccharide, a strain-specific cell wall component, was identified as the primary effector molecule of LplMB19. Toll-like receptor 2 signaling and the ability of macrophages to sequester iron were both critical for rhamnose-rich heteropolysaccharide-mediated macrophage activation upstream of the CD8 T-cell effector response and contributed to tumor cell apoptosis through iron deprivation. These findings reveal a well-defined mechanism connecting diet and health outcomes, suggesting that diet-derived commensals may warrant further investigation. Additionally, this work emphasizes the importance of strain-specific differences in studying microbiome-cancer interactions and the concept of "nutritional immunity" to enhance microbe-triggered antitumor immunity.

Microbial Mysteries: Staphylococcus aureus and the Enigma of Carcinogenesis

Staphylococcus aureus, a common human pathogen, has long been the focus of scientific investigation due to its association with various infections. However, recent research has unveiled a tantalizing enigma surrounding this bacterium and its potential involvement in carcinogenesis. Chronic S. aureus infections have been linked to an elevated risk of certain cancers, including skin cancer and oral cancer. This review explores the current state of knowledge regarding this connection, examining epidemiological evidence, pathogenic mechanisms, and biological interactions that suggest a correlation. Although initial studies point to a possible link, the precise mechanisms through which S. aureus may contribute to cancer development remain elusive. Emerging evidence suggests that the chronic inflammation induced by persistent S. aureus infections may create a tumor-promoting environment. This inflammation can lead to DNA damage, disrupt cellular signaling pathways, and generate an immunosuppressive microenvironment conducive to cancer progression. Additionally, S. aureus produces a variety of toxins and metabolites that can directly interact with host cells, potentially inducing oncogenic transformations. Despite these insights, significant gaps remain in our understanding of the exact biological processes involved. This review emphasizes the urgent need for more comprehensive research to clarify these microbiological mysteries. Understanding the role of S. aureus in cancer development could lead to novel strategies for cancer prevention and treatment, potentially transforming therapeutic approaches.

Pediococcus pentosaceus PP34 Ameliorates 5-Fluorouracil-Induced Intestinal Mucositis via Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Restoring the Gut Microbiota

Chemotherapy-induced intestinal mucositis based on 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) slows down the progress of cancer treatment and causes significant suffering to patients. Pediococcus pentosaceus (P. pentosaceus), as a type of LAB, has a range of probiotic properties, including antioxidant, immune benefits, and cholesterol-lowering effects, which are attracting increasing attention. However, studies on the protective effect of P. pentosaceus against chemotherapeutic-induced intestinal mucositis caused by 5-FU remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential relieving effects of P. pentosaceus PP34 on 5-FU-induced intestinal mucositis and its mechanism. In the present study, a P. pentosaceus PP34 solution (2 × 109 CFU/mL) was administered daily by gavage followed by intraperitoneal injection of 5-FU to model intestinal mucositis. The body weight, serum biochemical indices, jejunal pathological organization, and expression levels of inflammatory cytokines in the jejunum were examined. The results indicated that the mice induced with 5-FU developed typical intestinal mucositis symptoms and histopathological changes with intense inflammatory and oxidative responses. Moreover, the gut microbiota was disturbed, while PP34 effectively decreased the oxidative reactions and the expression levels of inflammatory mediators and regulated the gut microbiota in 5-FU-exposed mice. Taken together, the study indicated that P. pentosaceus PP34 ameliorates 5-Fluorouracil-induced intestinal mucositis via inhibiting oxidative stress and restoring the gut microbiota.

Effect of probiotics at different intervention time on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) is characterized by hyperglycemia. Gut microbiome adjustment plays a positive part in glucose regulation, which has become a hotspot. Probiotics have been studied for their potential to control the gut flora and to treat T2DM. However, the conclusion of its glucose-lowering effect is inconsistent based on different probiotic intervention times.

Objectives

To comprehensively evaluate how various probiotic intervention times affect glycemic control in people with T2DM.

Methods

We retrieved PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library on randomized controlled trials(RCTs)regarding the impact of probiotics on glycemic control in patients with T2DM from the inception to November 16, 2023. Separately, two researchers conducted a literature analysis, data extraction, and bias risk assessment of the involved studies. We followed the PRISMA guidelines, used RevMan 5.4 software for meta-analysis, and assessed the risk of bias by applying the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews 5.1.0.

Results

We included eight RCTs with 507 patients. Meta-analysis revealed that the use of probiotics might considerably reduce levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) {mean deviation (MD) = -0.33, 95% confidence interval (CI) (-0.59, -0.07), p = 0.01}, Insulin {standard mean deviation (SMD) = -0.48, 95% CI (-0.74, -0.22), p = 0.0003} and Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR){SMD = -1.36, 95% CI (-2.30, -0.41), p = 0.005} than placebo group. No statistically significant differences were found regarding fasting blood glucose (FBG) and body mass index (BMI) {SMD = -0.39, 95% CI (-0.83, 0.05), p = 0.08}, {SMD = -0.40, 95% CI (-1.07, 0.27), p = 0.25}, respectively. Subgroup analyses, grouped by intervention times, showed that six to eight weeks of intervention improved HbA1c compared to the control group (p < 0.05), both six to eight weeks and 12-24 weeks had a better intervention effect on Insulin, and HOMA-IR (p < 0.05).In contrast, there was no statistically significant variation in the length between FBG and BMI regarding duration.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis found probiotics at different intervention times play a positive role in modulating glucose in T2DM, specifically for HbA1c in six to eight weeks, Insulin and HOMA-IR in six to eight weeks, and 12-24 weeks. To confirm our findings, further excellent large-sample research is still required.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023483325.

Impact of probiotics on weight loss, glucose and lipid metabolism in overweight or obese women: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Our meta-analysis aimed to assess the effectiveness of probiotics in weight loss and glucose and lipid metabolism in overweight or obese women. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were used from inception until March 2024 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCT's) literature. Finally, 11 RCTs were included. Following critical appraisal, a meta-analysis was conducted using the fixed effects model and the random effects model found that probiotic consumption significantly decreased waist circumference (WC) (SMD = -0.39 cm, 95% CI: -0.60, -0.18 cm, P < 0.00001, I2 = 33%), insulin (SMD = -0.45 mcU/ml; 95% CI: -0.72, -0.18 mcU/ml; P = 0.04, I2 = 40%) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels (SMD = -0.51 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.92, -0.11 mmol/L; P = 0.02, I2 = 75%) in overweight or obese women. Moreover, subgroup analyses revealed that the effects of probiotic supplementation were significantly influenced by the intervention duration and diet and/or exercise intervention. This meta-analysis suggested that probiotic supplementation has a moderate and statistically significant effect on weight loss and glucose and lipid metabolism in overweight and obese women.

Ligilactobacillus salivarius XP132 with antibacterial and immunomodulatory activities inhibits horizontal and vertical transmission of Salmonella Pullorum in chickens

Probiotics are increasingly recognized for their capacity to combat pathogenic bacteria. In this study, we isolated a strain of Ligilactobacillus salivarius XP132 from the gut microbiota of healthy chickens. This strain exhibited resistance to low pH and bile salts, auto-aggregation capabilities, and the ability to co-aggregate with pathogenic Salmonella. The in vitro antibacterial activity of Ligilactobacillus salivarius XP132 was tested using an Oxford cup antibacterial test, and the results showed that Ligilactobacillus salivarius XP132 exhibited broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, with especially strong antibacterial activity against Salmonella. In animal experiments with white feather broilers and specific-pathogens-free (SPF) chickens, we orally administered 1 × 109 CFU XP132 live bacteria per chicken per day, and detected the content of Salmonella in the liver, spleen, intestinal contents, and eggs of the chickens by RT-qPCR. Oral administration of Lactobacillus salivarius XP132 group significantly reduced the levels of Salmonella in chicken liver, spleen, intestinal contents and eggs, and the oral administration of Ligilactobacillus salivarius XP132 significantly inhibited the horizontal and vertical transmission of Salmonella in SPF chickens and white-feathered broilers. After oral administration of XP132, the production of chicken serum anti-infective cytokine IFN-γ was also significantly up-regulated, thereby enhancing the host's ability to resist infection. In addition, the production of various serum inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α, was down-regulated, leading to significant amelioration of the inflammatory response induced by S. Pullorum in chickens. These findings suggest that Ligilactobacillus salivarius XP132 possesses potent antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties that effectively prevent both horizontal and vertical transmission of Salmonella Pullorum, highlighting its potential as a valuable tool for the prevention and control of Salmonella disease.

A synbiotic of Anaerostipes caccae and lactulose prevents and treats food allergy in mice

Depletion of beneficial microbes by modern lifestyle factors correlates with the rising prevalence of food allergies. Re-introduction of allergy-protective bacteria may be an effective treatment strategy. We characterized the fecal microbiota of healthy and food-allergic infants and found that the anaerobe Anaerostipes caccae (A. caccae) was representative of the protective capacity of the healthy microbiota. We isolated a strain of A. caccae from the feces of a healthy infant and identified lactulose as a prebiotic to optimize butyrate production by A. caccae in vitro. Administration of a synbiotic composed of our isolated A. caccae strain and lactulose increased luminal butyrate in gnotobiotic mice colonized with feces from an allergic infant and in antibiotic-treated specific pathogen-free (SPF) mice, and prevented or treated an anaphylactic response to allergen challenge. The synbiotic's efficacy in two models and microbial contexts suggests that it may be a promising approach for the treatment of food allergy.

Lactobacillus reuteri alleviates LPS-induced intestinal mucosal damage by stimulating the expansion of intestinal stem cells via activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in broilers

The continuous expansion of intestinal stem cells (ISCs) is crucial for maintaining the renewal of the intestinal epithelium, particularly in inflammatory conditions. It remains largely unknown how the internal microbiota repair damage to the internal mucosal barrier. Hence, investigating potential anti-inflammatory probiotics from the intestinal symbolic microbes of broilers and analyzing their mechanism of action to support the intestinal mucosal barrier function can offer novel regulatory tools to alleviate broiler enteritis. In this research, we utilized in vivo broilers plus ex vivo organoids model to thoroughly examine the effectiveness of Lactobacillus reuteri (LR) in protecting the integrity of the intestinal mucosa during lipopolysaccharide-induced (LPS-induced) enteritis in broilers. The findings indicated that LR feeding maintained intestinal morphological and structural integrity, enhanced proliferation of intestinal epithelial cells, and inhibited cell apoptosis and inflammatory response against the deleterious effects triggered by LPS. Simultaneously, LR enhanced ISCs activity and stimulated intestinal epithelial regeneration to protect the intestinal barrier during LPS-induced injury conditions. The coculture system of LR and ileum organoids revealed that LR increased the growth of organoids and attenuated LPS-stimulated damage to organoids. Furthermore, the LPS-induced decrease in ISC activity was rescued by reactivation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling by LR ex vivo and in vivo. This research revealed that LR promoted the expansion of ISCs and intestinal epithelial cell renewal by regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, thereby maintaining the integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier. This finding provided theoretical support for lactobacillus as a probiotic additive in livestock feed to improve intestinal inflammation and treat intestinal diseases.

W-GA nanodots restore intestinal barrier functions by regulating flora disturbance and relieving excessive oxidative stress to alleviate colitis

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may arise due to disruption of mucosal barriers as a result of dysregulation of the intestinal flora and excessive oxidative stress. The creation of nanomaterials with only microbiota-regulating effects often leads to inadequate therapeutic outcomes caused by the disruption of a healthy microbial balance and the emergence of tissue harm caused by excessive oxidative stress. This report describes the multifunctional activity of ultrasmall W-GA nanodots, which can precisely regulate the intestinal microbiome by inhibiting the abnormal expansion of Enterobacteriaceae during colitis and alleviating the damage caused by oxidative stress to the reconstructive microflora, ultimately restoring intestinal barrier function. W-GA nanodots have been synthesized through a simple coordination reaction and can be dispersed in various solvents in vitro, demonstrating favorable safety profiles in cells, significant clearance of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), and increased cell survival in models of oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Through oral or intravenous administration, the W-GA nanodots were shown to be highly safe when tested in vivo, and they effectively reduced colon damage in mice with DSS-induced colitis by restoring the integrity of the intestinal barrier. W-GA nanodots have enabled the integration of microflora reprogramming and RONS clearance, creating a potent therapeutic strategy for treating gut inflammation. Consequently, the development of W-GA nanodots represents a promising strategy for enhancing the formation and preservation of the intestinal barrier to treat IBD by suppressing the growth of Enterobacteriaceae, a type of facultative anaerobic bacterium, and facilitating the effective removal of RONS. Ultimately, this leads to the restoration of the intestinal barrier's functionality. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: An increasing number of nanoparticles are under development for treating inflammatory bowel disease. Although they can alleviate inflammation symptoms by regulating reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) and microbiota, their understanding of the mechanism behind microbiota regulation is limited. This study synthesized W-GA nanodots using a straightforward one-pot synthesis method. Simple synthesis holds significant promise for clinical applications, as it encompasses multiple nanoenzyme functions and also exhibits Enterobacteriaceae inhibitory properties.Thus, it contributes to ameliorating the current medical landscape of inflammatory bowel disease.

The role of Bifidobacterium in longevity and the future of probiotics

This review explores the role and health impacts of probiotics, focusing specifically on Bifidobacterium spp. It highlights the functionalities that Bifidobacteria can provide, underscored by the historical evolution of definitions and technological advancements related to probiotics. By examining the association between Bifidobacteria and longevity, this review suggests new avenues for health enhancement. Highlighting case studies of centenarians, it presents examples related to human aging, illuminating the potential links to longevity through research on Bifidobacterium strains found in centenarians. This review not only emphasizes the importance of current research but also advocates for further investigation into the health benefits of Bifidobacteria, underlining the necessity for continuous study in the nutraceutical field.

Novel strategies for modulating the gut microbiome for cancer therapy

Recent advancements in genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics have significantly advanced our understanding of the human gut microbiome and its impact on the efficacy and toxicity of anti-cancer therapeutics, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy. In particular, prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics are recognized for their unique properties in modulating the gut microbiota, maintaining the intestinal barrier, and regulating immune cells, thus emerging as new cancer treatment modalities. However, clinical translation of microbiome-based therapy is still in its early stages, facing challenges to overcome physicochemical and biological barriers of the gastrointestinal tract, enhance target-specific delivery, and improve drug bioavailability. This review aims to highlight the impact of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics on the gut microbiome and their efficacy as cancer treatment modalities. Additionally, we summarize recent innovative engineering strategies designed to overcome challenges associated with oral administration of anti-cancer treatments. Moreover, we will explore the potential benefits of engineered gut microbiome-modulating approaches in ameliorating the side effects of immunotherapy and chemotherapy.

Higher dietary live microbe intake is associated with a lower risk of sarcopenia

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the potential association between dietary live microbe intake and sarcopenia.

METHODS

Data from 5368 participants were gathered from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Dietary information was assessed using a self-report questionnaire. The participants were categorized into low, medium, and high dietary live microbe groups. Sarcopenia was defined according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) definition (appendicular skeletal muscle mass/body mass index <0.789 for men and <0.512 for women). Multivariate regression analysis and stratified analyses were performed.

RESULTS

After adjusting for potential confounding factors, individuals in the high dietary live microbe group exhibited a lower prevalence of sarcopenia compared to those in the low dietary live microbe group. The adjusted odds ratio (with 95% confidence intervals) was 0.63 (0.44-0.89) (p for trend <0.05). Subgroup analyses indicated a potential difference in the impact of dietary live microbe intake on sarcopenia between individuals with and without diabetes (p for interaction = 0.094).

CONCLUSION

Higher dietary live microbe intake was associated with a lower risk of sarcopenia.

Prevention of IgE-Mediated Food Allergy: Emerging Strategies Through Maternal and Neonatal Interventions

Whereas the early introduction of highly allergenic foods has been shown to be effective at preventing the onset of food allergy (FA) in high-risk infants, sensitization to food antigens can occur prior to complementary food introduction, and thus, additional earlier FA prevention strategies are urgently needed. Currently, aside from early introduction of peanut and egg, no therapies are strongly recommended by international professional allergy societies for the primary prevention of FA. This review focuses on maternal- and neonatal-directed interventions that are being actively investigated and developed, including maternal dietary factors and supplementation, specific elimination diets, breastfeeding, cow's milk formula supplementation, microbiome manipulations, bacterial lysate therapy, and skin barrier therapies. Evaluating how these factors and various prenatal/early life environmental exposures may impact the development of FA is crucial for accurately counseling caregivers in the prevention of FA.

Understanding the nutritional benefits through plant proteins-probiotics interactions: mechanisms, challenges, and perspectives

The nutritional benefits of combining probiotics with plant proteins have sparked increasing research interest and drawn significant attention. The interactions between plant proteins and probiotics demonstrate substantial potential for enhancing the functionality of plant proteins. Fermented plant protein foods offer a unique blend of bioactive components and beneficial microorganisms that can enhance gut health and combat chronic diseases. Utilizing various probiotic strains and plant protein sources opens doors to develop innovative probiotic products with enhanced functionalities. Nonetheless, the mechanisms and synergistic effects of these interactions remain not fully understood. This review aims to delve into the roles of promoting health through the intricate interplay of plant proteins and probiotics. The regulatory mechanisms have been elucidated to showcase the synergistic effects, accompanied by a discussion on the challenges and future research prospects. It is essential to recognize that the interactions between plant proteins and probiotics encompass multiple mechanisms, highlighting the need for further research to address challenges in achieving a comprehensive understanding of these mechanisms and their associated health benefits.

Breaking barriers: bacterial-microalgae symbiotic systems as a probiotic delivery system

The gut microbiota is one of the essential contributors of the pathogenesis and progress of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Compared with first-line drug therapy, probiotic supplementation has emerged as a viable and secure therapeutic approach for managing IBD through the regulation of both the immune system and gut microbiota. Nevertheless, the efficacy of oral probiotic supplements is hindered by their susceptibility to the gastrointestinal barrier, leading to diminished bioavailability and restricted intestinal colonization. Here, we developed a bacteria-microalgae symbiosis system (EcN-SP) for targeted intestinal delivery of probiotics and highly effective treatment of colitis. The utilization of mircroalge Spirulina platensis (SP) as a natural carrier for the probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) demonstrated potential benefits in promoting EcN proliferation, facilitating effective intestinal delivery and colonization. The alterations in the binding affinity of EcN-SP within the gastrointestinal environment, coupled with the distinctive structural properties of the SP carrier, served to overcome gastrointestinal barriers, minimizing transgastric EcN loss and enabling sustained intestinal retention and colonization. The oral administration of EcN-SP could effectively treat IBD by reducing the expression of intestinal inflammatory factors, maintaining the intestinal barrier and regulating the balance of gut microbiota. This probiotic delivery approach is inspired by symbiotic interactions found in nature and offers advantages in terms of feasibility, safety, and efficacy, thus holding significant promise for the management of gastrointestinal disorders.

Helicobacter pylori and the Human Gastrointestinal Microbiota: A Multifaceted Relationship

Helicobacter pylori is a type of Gram-negative bacteria belonging to the Proteobacteria phylum which is known to cause gastrointestinal disorders such as gastritis and gastric ulcers. Its treatment is based on current eradication regimens, which are composed of combinations of antibiotics such as clarithromycin, metronidazole, levofloxacin and amoxicillin, often combined with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). With the development of sequencing technologies, it has been demonstrated that not only does the colonization of the gastric and gut environment by H. pylori cause microbial changes, but also the treatment regimens used for its eradication have a significant altering effect on both the gastric and gut microbiota. Here, we review current knowledge on microbiota modulations of current therapies in both environments. We also summarize future perspectives regarding H. pylori infection, the integration of probiotics into therapy and what challenges are being faced on a global basis when we talk about eradication.

Advancements in understanding the role of intestinal dysbacteriosis mediated mucosal immunity in IgA nephropathy

IgA nephropathy, presently recognized as the foremost primary glomerular disorder, emerges as a principal contributor to renal failure globally, with its pathogenesis yet to be fully elucidated. Extensive research has highlighted the critical role of gut microbiome in the onset and progression of IgA nephropathy, underscoring its importance in accurately delineating the disease's etiology. For example, gut microbiome dysbacteriosis can lead to the production of nephritogenic IgA1 antibodies, which form immune complexes that deposit in the kidneys, causing inflammation and damage. The gut microbiome, a source of numerous bioactive compounds, interacts with the host and plays a regulatory role in gut-immune axis modulation, earning it the moniker of the "second brain." Recent investigations have particularly emphasized a significant correlation between IgA nephropathy and gut microbiome dysbacteriosis. This article offers a detailed overview of the pathogenic mechanisms of IgA nephropathy, specifically focusing on elucidating how alterations in the gut microbiome are associated with anomalies in the intestinal mucosal system in IgA nephropathy. Additionally, it describes the possible influence of gut microbiome on recurrent IgA nephropathy following kidney transplantation. Furthermore, it compiles potential therapeutic interventions, offering both theoretical and practical foundations for the management of IgA nephropathy. Lastly, the challenges currently faced in the therapeutic approaches to IgA nephropathy are discussed.

Dietary Supplementation of Compound Probiotics Improves Intestinal Health by Modulated Microbiota and Its SCFA Products as Alternatives to In-Feed Antibiotics

Enterococcus faecium, Bifidobacterium, and Pediococcus acidilactici, as intestinal probiotics, have been proved to play a positive role in treating intestinal diseases, promoting growth and immune regulation in poultry. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of compound probiotics on growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, intestinal microbiome characteristics, as well as intestinal morphology in broiler chickens. Treatment diets with chlortetracycline and compound probiotics were used for two groups of sixty broilers each throughout the feeding process. Another group was fed the basal diet. The BW (2589.41 ± 13.10 g vs 2422.50 ± 19.08 g) and ADG (60.57 ± 0.31 g vs 56.60 ± 0.45 g) of the compound probiotics added feed treatment group were significantly increased, and the FCR was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). The supplementation of a compound probiotics enhanced the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Faecalibacterium, and norank_f_norank_o_Clostridia_vadinBB60_group (P < 0.05), and modulated the cecal microbiota structure, thereby promoting the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and elevating their levels (P < 0.05), particularly propionic and butyric acids. Furthermore, the administration of the compound probiotics supplements significantly enhanced the villi height, V/C ratio, and reduced the crypt depth (P < 0.05). In addition, the activity of digestive enzymes in the duodenum and jejunum was elevated (P < 0.05). Collectively, the selected compound probiotics supplemented in this experiment have demonstrated efficacy, warranting further application in practical production settings as a viable alternative to antibiotics, thereby facilitating efficient production and promoting gastrointestinal health.

The vast landscape of carbohydrate fermentation in prokaryotes

Fermentation is a type of metabolism carried out by organisms in environments without oxygen. Despite being studied for over 185 years, the diversity and complexity of this metabolism are just now becoming clear. Our review starts with the definition of fermentation, which has evolved over the years and which we help further refine. We then examine the range of organisms that carry out fermentation and their traits. Over one-fourth of all prokaryotes are fermentative, use more than 40 substrates, and release more than 50 metabolic end products. These insights come from studies analyzing records of thousands of organisms. Next, our review examines the complexity of fermentation at the biochemical level. We map out pathways of glucose fermentation in unprecedented detail, covering over 120 biochemical reactions. We also review recent studies coupling genomics and enzymology to reveal new pathways and enzymes. Our review concludes with practical applications for agriculture, human health, and industry. All these areas depend on fermentation and could be improved through manipulating fermentative microbes and enzymes. We discuss potential approaches for manipulation, including genetic engineering, electrofermentation, probiotics, and enzyme inhibitors. We hope our review underscores the importance of fermentation research and stimulates the next 185 years of study.

Gastrointestinal Biofilms: Endoscopic Detection, Disease Relevance, and Therapeutic Strategies

Gastrointestinal biofilms are highly heterogenic and spatially organized polymicrobial communities that can expand and cover large areas in the gastrointestinal tract. Gut microbiota dysbiosis, mucus disruption, and epithelial invasion are associated with pathogenic biofilms that have been linked to gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases, gastric cancer, and colon cancer. Intestinal biofilms are highly prevalent in ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome patients, and most endoscopists will have observed such biofilms during colonoscopy, maybe without appreciating their biological and clinical importance. Gut biofilms have a protective extracellular matrix that renders them challenging to treat, and effective therapies are yet to be developed. This review covers gastrointestinal biofilm formation, growth, appearance and detection, biofilm architecture and signalling, human host defence mechanisms, disease and clinical relevance of biofilms, therapeutic approaches, and future perspectives. Critical knowledge gaps and open research questions regarding the biofilm's exact pathophysiological relevance and key hurdles in translating therapeutic advances into the clinic are discussed. Taken together, this review summarizes the status quo in gut biofilm research and provides perspectives and guidance for future research and therapeutic strategies.

Modulating the Gut Microbiota and Metabolites with Traditional Chinese Medicines: An Emerging Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications

Currently, an estimated 537 million individuals are affected by type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the occurrence of which is invariably associated with complications. Glucose-lowering therapy remains the main treatment for alleviating T2DM. However, conventional antidiabetic agents are fraught with numerous adverse effects, notably elevations in blood pressure and lipid levels. Recently, the use of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) and their constituents has emerged as a preferred management strategy aimed at curtailing the progression of diabetes and its associated complications with fewer adverse effects. Increasing evidence indicates that gut microbiome disturbances are involved in the development of T2DM and its complications. This regulation depends on various metabolites produced by gut microbes and their interactions with host organs. TCMs' interventions have demonstrated the ability to modulate the intestinal bacterial microbiota, thereby restoring host homeostasis and ameliorating metabolic disorders. This review delves into the alterations in the gut microbiota and metabolites in T2DM patients and how TCMs treatment regulates the gut microbiota, facilitating the management of T2DM and its complications. Additionally, we also discuss prospective avenues for research on natural products to advance diabetes therapy.

Effect of Postbiotics Derived from Lactobacillus rhamnosus PB01 (DSM 14870) on Sperm Quality: A Prospective In Vitro Study

Vaginally administered postbiotics derived from Lactobacillus were recently demonstrated to be effective in alleviating bacterial vaginosis and increasing pregnancy rates. However, their potential effect on sperm quality has not been well investigated. This controlled in vitro study aimed to assess the dose- and time-dependent effects of postbiotics derived from Lactobacillus rhamnosus PB01 (DSM 14870) on sperm quality parameters. The experiment was conducted in vitro to eliminate potential confounding factors from the female reproductive tract and vaginal microbiota. Sperm samples from 18 healthy donors were subjected to analysis using Computer-Aided Sperm Analysis (CASA) in various concentrations of postbiotics and control mediums at baseline, 60 min, and 90 min of incubation. Results indicated that lower postbiotic concentration (PB5) did not adversely affect sperm motility, kinematic parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation, and normal morphology at any time. However, concentrations exceeding 15% demonstrated a reduction in progressively motile sperm and a negative correlation with non-progressively motile sperm at all time points. These findings underscore the importance of balancing postbiotic dosage to preserve sperm motility while realizing the postbiotics' vaginal health benefits. Further research is warranted to understand the underlying mechanisms and refine practical applications in reproductive health.

Development of probiotic yogurt products incorporated with Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens OSU-BSGOA1 in mono- and co-culture with Kluyveromyces marxianus

The bacterium Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens OSU-BDGOA1 and yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus bdgo-ym6 were previously isolated from kefir grains and have shown probiotic traits in mono- and coculture. This research evaluates the effect of introducing probiotic kefir microorganisms in monoculture and in coculture alongside yogurt starter cultures on the physicochemical and rheological properties, volatile flavor compounds, survival of the microorganisms during simulated digestion, and sensory attributes of the final fermented products. The incorporation of Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens OSU-BDGOA1 in monoculture showed promising outcomes, resulting in a final product showing more solid-like characteristics and potentially improving the texture of the product. There was also a significant increase in the concentration of desirable volatile flavor compounds in the yogurt with the monoculture, particularly 2,3-butanedione, displaying a positive correlation with buttery flavor in the sensory analysis. The inclusion of L. kefiranofaciens in monoculture also promoted better sensory attributes and was significantly better than the yogurt with the coculture with the yeast showing promising results for the incorporation of this probiotic bacterium into functional fermented dairy products.

Prevention and treatment of antibiotics-associated adverse effects through the use of probiotics: A review

BACKGROUND

The human gut hosts a diverse microbial community, essential for maintaining overall health. However, antibiotics, commonly prescribed for infections, can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to antibiotic-associated diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and even neurological disorders. Recognizing this, probiotics have emerged as a promising strategy to counteract these adverse effects.

AIM OF REVIEW

This review aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the latest evidence concerning the utilization of probiotics in managing antibiotic-associated side effects.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

Probiotics play a crucial role in preserving gut homeostasis, regulating intestinal function and metabolism, and modulating the host immune system. These mechanisms serve to effectively alleviate antibiotic-associated adverse effects and enhance overall well-being.

Chronic pancreatitis-associated metabolic bone diseases: epidemiology, mechanisms, and clinical advances

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a progressive inflammatory disease with an increasing global prevalence. In recent years, a strong association between CP and metabolic bone diseases (MBDs), especially osteoporosis, has been identified, attracting significant attention in the research field. Epidemiological data suggest a rising trend in the incidence of MBDs among CP patients. Notably, recent studies have highlighted a profound interplay between CP and altered nutritional and immune profiles, offering insights into its linkage with MBDs. At the molecular level, CP introduces a series of biochemical disturbances that compromise bone homeostasis. One critical observation is the disrupted metabolism of vitamin D and vitamin K, both essential micronutrients for maintaining bone integrity, in CP patients. In this review, we provide physio-pathological perspectives on the development and mechanisms of CP-related MBDs. We also outline some of the latest therapeutic strategies for treating patients with CP-associated MBDs, including stem cell transplantation, monoclonal antibodies, and probiotic therapy. In summary, CP-associated MBDs represent a rising medical challenge, involving multiple tissues and organs, complex disease mechanisms, and diverse treatment approaches. More in-depth studies are required to understand the complex interplay between CP and MBDs to facilitate the development of more specific and effective therapeutic approaches.

Advances in serum-free media for CHO cells: From traditional serum substitutes to microbial-derived substances

The Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell is an epithelial-like cell that produces proteins with post-translational modifications similar to human glycosylation. It is widely used in the production of recombinant therapeutic proteins and monoclonal antibodies. Culturing CHO cells typically requires the addition of a certain proportion of fetal bovine serum (FBS) to maintain cell proliferation and passaging. However, serum is characterized by its complex composition, batch-to-batch variability, high cost, and potential risk of exogenous contaminants such as mycoplasma and viruses, which impact the purity and safety of the synthesized proteins. Therefore, search for serum alternatives and development of serum-free media for CHO-based protein biomanufacturing are of great significance. This review systematically summarizes the application advantages of CHO cells and strategies for high-density expression. It highlights the developmental trends of serum substitutes from human platelet lysates to animal-free extracts and microbial-derived substances and elucidates the mechanisms by which these substitutes enhance CHO cell culture performance and recombinant protein production, aiming to provide theoretical guidance for exploring novel serum alternatives and developing serum-free media for CHO cells.

Safety Evaluation of a Novel Potentially Probiotic Limosilactobacillus fermentum in Rats

Limosilactobacillus (L) fermentum (strains 139, 263, 296) is a novel probiotic mixture isolated from fruit processing by-products. The use of this formulation has been associated with improvements in cardiometabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress parameters. The present study evaluated the safety of a potential multi-strain probiotic by genotoxicity (micronucleus assay) and subchronic toxicity study (13-week repeated dose). In the genotoxicity evaluation, L. fermentum 139, 263, 296 did not increase the frequency of micronuclei in erythrocytes of rats of both sexes at doses up to 1010 CFU/mL. In the subchronic toxicity study, the administration of L. fermentum did not promote adverse health effects, such as behavioral changes, appearance of tumors, changes in hematological and biochemical parameters. In addition, higher doses of L. fermentum 139, 263, 296 have been shown to reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Administration of potentially probiotic L. fermentum did not promote adverse health effects in rats and could be evaluated as a potential probiotic for humans.

Galactooligosaccharides: Synthesis, metabolism, bioactivities and food applications

Prebiotics are non-digestible ingredients that exert significant health-promoting effects on hosts. Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) have remarkable prebiotic effects and structural similarity to human milk oligosaccharides. They generally comprise two to eight sugar units, including galactose and glucose, which are synthesized from substrate lactose by microbial β-galactosidase. Enzyme sources from probiotics have received particular interest because of their safety and potential to synthesize specific structures that are particularly metabolized by intestinal probiotics. Owing to advancements in modern analytical techniques, many GOS structures have been identified, which vary in degree of polymerization, glycosidic linkage, and branch location. After intake, GOS adjust gut microbiota which produce short chain fatty acids, and exhibit excellent biological activities. They selectively stimulate the proliferation of probiotics, inhibit the growth and adhesion of pathogenic bacteria, alleviate gastrointestinal, neurological, metabolic and allergic diseases, modulate metabolites production, and adjust ion storage and absorption. Additionally, GOS are safe and stable, with high solubility and clean taste, and thus are widely used as food additives. GOS can improve the appearance, flavor, taste, texture, viscosity, rheological properties, shelf life, and health benefits of food products. This review systemically covers GOS synthesis, structure identifications, metabolism mechanisms, prebiotic bioactivities and wide applications, focusing on recent advances.

A Shotgun Metagenomics Investigation into Labeling Inaccuracies in Widely Sold Probiotic Supplements in the USA

While probiotics are generally considered safe, concerns persist regarding the accuracy of labels on these supplements and their potential contribution to the spread of antibiotic resistance genes. Given that probiotics are predominantly ingested with a view towards obtaining particular health benefits. The objective of this study is to assess the composition of 50 widely available probiotic supplements in the USA using shotgun metagenome sequencing. The study also determines the potential resistome profile, and the functional characteristics of these products. This study finds that 67% of products does not contain any labeling inaccuracies. Antimicrobial Resistance Genes (ARGs) are identified in several products, particularly Bacillus-based products carrying between 10 and 56 genes. The risk posed by the presence of these ARGs requires further study. Functional analysis reveals differences in metabolic profiles among probiotic supplements, indicating the importance of strain-level selection for personalized probiotics. This study provides updated and comprehensive analysis to evaluate a snapshot of the USA market. The study demonstrates that label inaccuracies occur on approximately one third of popular dietary supplement products sold in the USA, supporting the need for improved approaches to marketing and quality control. Further, the risk of antibiotic resistance, especially in Bacillus-based formulations, should be assessed.

Eating away cancer: the potential of diet and the microbiome for shaping immunotherapy outcome

The gut microbiome (GMB) plays a substantial role in human health and disease. From affecting gut barrier integrity to promoting immune cell differentiation, the GMB is capable of shaping host immunity and thus oncogenesis and anti-cancer therapeutic response, particularly with immunotherapy. Dietary patterns and components are key determinants of GMB composition, supporting the investigation of the diet-microbiome-immunity axis as a potential avenue to enhance immunotherapy response in cancer patients. As such, this review will discuss the role of the GMB and diet on anti-cancer immunity. We demonstrate that diet affects anti-cancer immunity through both GMB-independent and GMB-mediated mechanisms, and that different diet patterns mold the GMB's functional and taxonomic composition in distinctive ways. Dietary modulation therefore shows promise as an intervention for improving cancer outcome; however, further and more extensive research in human cancer populations is needed.

Exploring the lung-gut direction of the gut-lung axis in patients with ARDS

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) represents a life-threatening inflammatory reaction marked by refractory hypoxaemia and pulmonary oedema. Despite advancements in treatment perspectives, ARDS still carries a high mortality rate, often due to systemic inflammatory responses leading to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Indeed, the deterioration and associated mortality in patients with acute lung injury (LI)/ARDS is believed to originate alongside respiratory failure mainly from the involvement of extrapulmonary organs, a consequence of the complex interaction between initial inflammatory cascades related to the primary event and ongoing mechanical ventilation-induced injury resulting in multiple organ failure (MOF) and potentially death. Even though recent research has increasingly highlighted the role of the gastrointestinal tract in this process, the pathophysiology of gut dysfunction in patients with ARDS remains mainly underexplored. This review aims to elucidate the complex interplay between lung and gut in patients with LI/ARDS. We will examine various factors, including systemic inflammation, epithelial barrier dysfunction, the effects of mechanical ventilation (MV), hypercapnia, and gut dysbiosis. Understanding these factors and their interaction may provide valuable insights into the pathophysiology of ARDS and potential therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes.

Bidirectional communication of the gut-brain axis: new findings in Parkinson's disease and inflammatory bowel disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are the two chronic inflammatory diseases that are increasingly affecting millions of people worldwide, posing a major challenge to public health. PD and IBD show similarities in epidemiology, genetics, immune response, and gut microbiota. Here, we review the pathophysiology of these two diseases, including genetic factors, immune system imbalance, changes in gut microbial composition, and the effects of microbial metabolites (especially short-chain fatty acids). We elaborate on the gut-brain axis, focusing on role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of PD and IBD. In addition, we discuss several therapeutic strategies, including drug therapy, fecal microbiota transplantation, and probiotic supplementation, and their potential benefits in regulating intestinal microecology and relieving disease symptoms. Our analysis will provide a new understanding and scientific basis for the development of more effective therapeutic strategies for these diseases.

Precision probiotics supplement strategy in aging population based on gut microbiome composition

With the increasing prevalence of age-related chronic diseases burdening healthcare systems, there is a pressing need for innovative management strategies. Our study focuses on the gut microbiota, essential for metabolic, nutritional, and immune functions, which undergoes significant changes with aging. These changes can impair intestinal function, leading to altered microbial diversity and composition that potentially influence health outcomes and disease progression. Using advanced metagenomic sequencing, we explore the potential of personalized probiotic supplements in 297 older adults by analyzing their gut microbiota. We identified distinctive Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium signatures in the gut microbiota of older adults, revealing probiotic patterns associated with various population characteristics, microbial compositions, cognitive functions, and neuroimaging results. These insights suggest that tailored probiotic supplements, designed to match individual probiotic profile, could offer an innovative method for addressing age-related diseases and functional declines. Our findings enhance the existing evidence base for probiotic use among older adults, highlighting the opportunity to create more targeted and effective probiotic strategies. However, additional research is required to validate our results and further assess the impact of precision probiotics on aging populations. Future studies should employ longitudinal designs and larger cohorts to conclusively demonstrate the benefits of tailored probiotic treatments.

Role of probiotic as adjuvant in treating various infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Research on the advantages of probiotics has attracted increasing interest based on the number of publications, products, and public awareness of their benefits. This review evaluated the role of probiotics (single and multiple regimens) as an additional regimen to treat common infectious diseases, including Helicobacter. pylori, diarrheal infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), and HIV infections.

METHODS

We searched randomized controlled trials from PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane and identified 6,950 studies. Duplicates were removed, and titles and abstracts were filtered. Bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Trials (ROB 1.0 and 2.0). The certainty of the evidence was evaluated using GRADE. Data were extracted and meta-analysis was performed using RevMan.

RESULTS

A total of 32 studies were included in this study (22 H. pylori studies, 2 diarrheal infection studies, 6 UTI studies, and 2 HIV infection studies). There was no study on URTI. Probiotics, in addition to primary treatment, could improve the eradication of H. pylori versus the control (RR: 1.09; 95% CI:1.04 - 1.13, p value = 0.001) and achieve a cure range of Nugent score in UTI patients (RR 1.38; 95% CI: 1.01 - 1.89, p value = 0.04). For eradicating H. pylori infection, subgroup analysis based on the therapy regimen showed that standard triple therapy was slightly superior compared to quadruple therapy in eradicating H. pylori (RR: 1.14 vs. 1.01, respectively). Single strain probiotics showed a similar effect to multiple strain probiotic regimens (both had an RR of 1.09). The effect estimates of the use of single strain probiotics as adjuvant therapy in eradicating H. pylori and the use of probiotics in UTI had a high certainty of evidence. Meta-analysis was not performed for infectious diarrheal because there were only two eligible studies with different probiotic supplementations and outcome parameters. Nonetheless, they showed that the diarrheal incidence was lower and complete remission of diarrheal was higher after the regimen of probiotics. Similarly, a meta-analysis was not performed for HIV infection because the two eligible studies used different designs and comparators with contradicting findings.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis showed beneficial use of single strain probiotics as adjuvant therapy in eradicating H. pylori and the use of probiotics in UTI. Probiotic supplementation might not be beneficial for patients given a quadruple therapy. Single-strain and multi-strain probiotic regimens had similar effects in increasing the eradication rate of H. pylori. Our study also suggested that the benefits of probiotics as an additional regimen in infectious diarrheal and HIV infections remain unclear; more studies are needed to confirm the benefits.

Does "all disease begin in the gut"? The gut-organ cross talk in the microbiome

The human microbiome, a diverse ecosystem of microorganisms within the body, plays pivotal roles in health and disease. This review explores site-specific microbiomes, their role in maintaining health, and strategies for their upkeep, focusing on oral, lung, vaginal, skin, and gut microbiota, and their systemic connections. Understanding the intricate relationships between these microbial communities is crucial for unraveling mechanisms underlying human health. Recent research highlights bidirectional communication between the gut and distant microbiome sites, influencing immune function, metabolism, and disease susceptibility. Alterations in one microbiome can impact others, emphasizing their interconnectedness and collective influence on human physiology. The therapeutic potential of gut microbiota in modulating distant microbiomes offers promising avenues for interventions targeting various disorders. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and technological advancements, we can harness the power of the microbiome to revolutionize healthcare, emphasizing microbiome-centric approaches to promote holistic well-being while identifying areas for future research.