Astilbin from Smilax glabra Roxb. alleviates high-fat diet-induced metabolic dysfunction

Astilbin Alleviates Radiation-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis via circPRKCE Targeting the TGF-β/Smad7 Pathway to Inhibit Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition

Purpose: This study aimed to clarify the protective effect of astilbin (AST) on radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis (RIPF) and explore its underlying molecular mechanism, focusing on non-coding RNAs. Methods: Mouse lung epithelial cells (MLE-12 and TC-1) and C57BL/6J mice were used to establish in vitro radiation injury models and in vivo RIPF models, respectively. Cell viability, apoptosis, the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and fibrosis-related markers were assessed using cell-counting kit-8 assays, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and histological staining. High-throughput sequencing identified differentially expressed circRNAs. The mechanistic studies included RNA-FISH, a dual-luciferase reporter assay, an RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay, and loss-of-function experiments. Results: AST significantly alleviated radiation-induced apoptosis and EMT in vitro, as well as RIPF in vivo. AST treatment reduced collagen deposition, fibrosis-related protein expression, and EMT marker changes. High-throughput sequencing revealed that AST upregulated circPRKCE, a non-coding RNA that functions through a ceRNA mechanism by binding to miR-15b-5p, thereby promoting Smad7 expression and suppressing the TGF-β/Smad7 pathway. Knockdown of circPRKCE abolished AST's protective effects, confirming its pivotal role in mediating AST's anti-fibrotic activity. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that Astilbin alleviates radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis via circPRKCE targeting the TGF-β/Smad7 pathway to inhibit EMT, suggesting AST as a potential therapeutic agent for managing this severe complication of radiotherapy.

Cadmium exposure induced spleen inflammation by activating the MAPK/NF-κB/ NLRP3 signaling pathway and the intervention effect of astilbin

Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental pollutant with strong immunotoxicity effects. Despite this, the mechanisms by which Cd causes spleen damage in chickens are not well understood. Astilbin (ASB) is a dihydroflavone glycoside with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidation properties. In the present study, a chicken spleen injury model induced by cadmium exposure (90d) was established to explore the specific mechanisms of Cd-induced spleen injury. If and how ASB ameliorates the damage was also explored. A total of 60 chickens were randomly divided into four groups: Con, Cd, ASB, and Cd+ASB groups. The pathological changes in the spleen were observed by H&E staining. Cd-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and the involvement of the MAPK/NF-κB/NLRP3 in ameliorating spleen damage were also analyzed by Western blotting, qRT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry. Our results showed that Cd exposure for 90 days damaged the spleen, which mainly manifested as eosinophil infiltration, an increase in MDA content, a decrease in the CAT, GSH, SOD, and T-AOC, and activation of MAPK/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway. The overall outcome of these events was the induction of oxidative stress and inflammation in the spleen of the chickens. Interestingly, ASB treatment ameliorated Cd-induced damages. In conclusion, the present study revealed the specific mechanism of Cd-induced spleen damage using a chicken model. But ASB ameliorates Cd-induced cadmium poisoning.

Gut microbes of the cecum versus the colon drive more severe lethality and multi-organ damage

Intestinal perforations lead to a high risk of sepsis-associated morbidity and multi-organ dysfunctions. A perforation allows intestinal contents (IC) to enter the peritoneal cavity, causing abdominal infections. Right- and left-sided perforations have different prognoses in humans, but the mechanisms associated with different cecum and colon perforations remain unclear. This study investigates how gut flora influences outcomes from perforations at different sites in mice. Using fecal-induced peritonitis mouse model, isolated IC from the cecum or colon was injected peritoneally at 2 mg/kg. Bacterial burden was quantified with quantitative PCR, and microbial communities were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Survival rates were monitored, and blood biochemical indices, histological changes, cytokines expression, immunological signaling and multiple-organ damage were assessed at 16 h post-injections. The results showed cecum IC developed more severe sepsis than colon IC, with shorter median survival time and greater multi-organ damage. Mice treated with cecum IC displayed elevated tissue damage markers in the liver, heart, and kidneys, contributing to worsened pathology. This was likely driven by systematic inflammatory cytokines production and lung inflammation. Mechanistically, cecum IC triggered stronger cGAS-STING and TBK1-NF-κB signaling, promoting systemic inflammation compared to the colon IC. Moreover, bacterial analysis demonstrated that cecum IC carry a higher bacterial burden than colon IC and exhibit a different microbial community. A detailed microbiome comparison revealed an increased abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria in the cecum IC. These findings suggest that the site of intestinal perforation influences sepsis severity, with the cecum being associated with a higher bacterial burden and a relatively increased abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria compared to the colon. Our findings first compared the lethality associated with the microbial composition of the cecum and colon, indicating the perforation site could help providers predict the severity of sepsis, thereby introducing a novel perspective to microbiology and sepsis research.

Oral administration of astilbin mitigates acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury in mice by modulating the gut microbiota

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose-induced acute liver injury (ALI) is characterized by extensive oxidative stress, and the clinical interventions for this adverse effect remain limited. Astilbin is an active compound found in the rhizome of Smilax glabra Roxb. with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Due to its low oral bioavailability, astilbin can accumulate in the intestine, which provides a basis for the interaction between astilbin and gut microbiota (GM). In the present study we investigated the protective effects of astilbin against APAP-induced ALI by focusing on the interaction between astilbin and GM. Mice were treated with astilbin (50 mg·kg-1·d-1, i.g.) for 7 days. After the last administration of astilbin for 2 h, the mice received APAP (300 mg/kg, i.g.) to induce ALI. We showed that oral administration of astilbin significantly alleviated APAP-induced ALI by altering the composition of GM and enriching beneficial metabolites including hydroxytyrosol (HT). GM depletion using an "antibiotics cocktail" or paraoral administration of astilbin abolished the hepatoprotective effects of astilbin. On the other hand, administration of HT (10 mg/kg, i.g.) caused similar protective effects in APAP-induced ALI mice. Transcriptomic analysis of the liver tissue revealed that HT inhibited reactive oxygen species and inflammation-related signaling in APAP-induced ALI; HT promoted activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway to combat oxidative stress following APAP challenge in a sirtuin-6-dependent manner. These results highlight that oral astilbin ameliorates APAP-induced ALI by manipulating the GM and metabolites towards a more favorable profile, and provide an alternative therapeutic strategy for alleviating APAP-induced ALI.

Integrating larval zebrafish model and network pharmacology for screening and identification of edible herbs with therapeutic potential for MAFLD: A promising drug Smilax glabra Roxb

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is becoming a prevalent chronic liver disease. Many medicinal and edible herbs exhibit remarkable biological activities in ameliorating MAFLD but lack a comprehensive assessment of their therapeutic efficacy. This study determined total phenolic and flavonoid contents and in vitro antioxidant properties of 34 edible herbs. Smilax glabra Roxb. (SGR), Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt., and Smilax china L. were obtained with the best bioactivity and antioxidant capacity. The high-cholesterol diet-induced larval zebrafish model was established to compare the anti-MAFLD activity of the three herb extracts mentioned above. In vivo experiments revealed that SGR intervention significantly decreased lipid accumulation, alleviated oxidative stress, and modulated intestinal microbiota composition in zebrafish. Furthermore, three potential active components in SGR and their possible mechanisms were explored through network pharmacology and molecular docking. Our study suggested that SGR is a potential candidate for developing new drugs or dietary supplements for MAFLD therapy.

Dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis alters the proportion and composition of replicating gut bacteria

The bacteria living in the human gut are essential for host health. Though the composition and metabolism of these bacteria are well described in both healthy hosts and those with intestinal disease, less is known about the metabolic activity of the gut bacteria prior to, and during, disease development-especially regarding gut bacterial replication. Here, we use a recently developed single-cell technique alongside existing metagenomics-based tools to identify, track, and quantify replicating gut bacteria both ex vivo and in situ in the dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) mouse model of colitis. We show that the proportion of replicating gut bacteria decreases when mice have the highest levels of inflammation and returns to baseline levels as mice begin recovering. In addition, we report significant alterations in the composition of the replicating gut bacterial community ex vivo during colitis development. On the taxa level, we observe significant changes in the abundance of taxa such as the mucus-degrading Akkermansia and the poorly described Erysipelatoclostridium genus. We further demonstrate that many taxa exhibit variable replication rates in situ during colitis, including Akkermansia muciniphila. Lastly, we show that colitis development is positively correlated with increases in the presence and abundance of bacteria in situ which are predicted to be fast replicators. This could suggest that taxa with the potential to replicate quickly may have an advantage during intestinal inflammation. These data support the need for additional research using activity-based approaches to further characterize the gut bacterial response to intestinal inflammation and its consequences for both the host and the gut microbial community.IMPORTANCEIt is well known that the bacteria living inside the gut are important for human health. Indeed, the type of bacteria that are present and their metabolism are different in healthy people versus those with intestinal disease. However, less is known about how these gut bacteria are replicating, especially as someone begins to develop intestinal disease. This is particularly important as it is thought that metabolically active gut bacteria may be more relevant to health. Here, we begin to address this gap using several complementary approaches to characterize the replicating gut bacteria in a mouse model of intestinal inflammation. We reveal which gut bacteria are replicating, and how quickly, as mice develop and recover from inflammation. This work can serve as a model for future research to identify how actively growing gut bacteria may be impacting health, or why these particular bacteria tend to thrive during intestinal inflammation.

Citrus aurantium 'Changshan-huyou' physiological premature fruit drop: A promising prebiotic to tackle obesity

BACKGROUND

Presently, the mitigation and governance of obesity have surfaced as significant public health dilemmas on a global scale. A wealth of studies indicated that the host gut microbiota is instrumental in regulating the interplay between high-fat diet (HFD) intake and the pathogenesis of obesity. Physiological premature fruit drop, a major byproduct of citrus, is rich in a variety of bioactive constituents, yet its potential has remained underutilized for an extended period.

PURPOSE

The objective of this investigation is to examine the chemical constituents of Citrus aurantium'Changshan-huyou' premature fruit drop (HYFD) and investigate its anti-obesity effects, elucidating its potential pathways.

METHODS

Volatile compounds and flavonoids in HYFD were analyzed using chromatographic and mass spectrometric techniques. Furthermore, this study utilized biochemical assays and histopathological examinations to evaluate the effects of HYFD on HFD-fed mice. The impact of HYFD on the gut microbiota of the mice was examined through 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and fecal microbiota transplantation was employed to validate the role of the gut microbial community in host obesity prevention. Concurrently, transcriptome was employed to identify differentially expressed genes, providing further insights into the molecular mechanisms through which HYFD manifests its anti-obesity effects.

RESULTS

Our findings demonstrated that HYFD supplementation significantly alleviated adiposity and ameliorated the dysbiosis of gut microbiota in HFD-induced mice. HYFD rectified the HFD-induced gut microbiota dysregulation, enhanced the presence of beneficial microbial taxa linked to lipid metabolism, including Parabacteroides and Alistipes, and elevated concentrations of the anti-obesity short-chain fatty acids, comprising caproic acid and isocaproic acid. Additionally, transcriptomic analyses confirmed that HYFD prevented obesity in mice by enhancing fatty acid catabolism via the activation of the AMPK/PPARα/CPT1a signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Our results provided novel insights into the mechanism of citrus physiological premature fruit drop and its potential role in preventing obesity, while sparking greater interest in leveraging more biomass waste.

Tremella fuciformis Berk Alleviated Atherosclerosis Symptoms via Nuclear Factor-Kappa B-Mediated Inflammatory Response in ApoE-/- Mice

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis, a persistent inflammatory disease marked by the presence of atherosclerotic plaques or fibrous plaques, is a significant contributor to the onset of the development of cardiovascular disease. Tremella fuciformis Berk contains various active ingredients that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hypolipidemic properties. Nevertheless, the potential effects of T. fuciformis on atherosclerosis have not been systematically reported.

METHOD

In this study, ApoE-/- mice were employed as models of atherosclerosis caused by a high-fat diet (HFD) to investigate the effect of T. fuciformis. Gut microbiota and serum metabolism analysis were performed to elucidate the potential mechanism of T. fuciformis for its anti-atherosclerosis effects.

RESULTS

T. fuciformis significantly decreased the aortic root wall thickness and the area of lipid droplets, regulated lipid levels, and inhibited fat accumulation to improve aortic root lesions. Furthermore, T. fuciformis significantly altered serum metabolite (including diethyl phthalate and succinate) levels, regulated the abundance of microbiota, such as Coriobacteriaceae_UCG-002 and Alistipes, and suppressed the inflammatory response to ameliorate atherosclerosis via the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)-mediated inflammatory response in HFD-induced ApoE-/- mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These results offer a theoretical basis and data to support T. fuciformis as a potential strategy for treating atherosclerosis.

The relationship between a high-fat diet, gut microbiome, and systemic chronic inflammation: insights from integrated multiomics analysis

BACKGROUND

The detrimental effects of a high-fat diet (HFD) extend beyond metabolic consequences and include systemic chronic inflammation (SCI), immune dysregulation, and gut health disruption.

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we used Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the relationship between HFD, gut microbiota, and SCI.

METHODS

Genetic variants associated with dietary fat were utilized to explore causal relationships. Genome-wide association study data for the analyses of the gut microbiota, inflammatory cytokines, immune cell characteristics, and serum metabolites were obtained from European individuals. Mediation analysis was used to reveal potential mediating factors. The GMrepo database was used to analyze the bacterial composition in different groups. Transcriptomic and single-cell sequencing analyses explored inflammation and barrier function in colonic tissue.

RESULTS

HFD consumption was linked to changes in the abundance of 3 bacterial families and 11 bacterial genera. Combined with the GMrepo database, the increased abundance of the genus Lachnospiraceae_FCS020group and the decreased abundance of genus Bacteroides and genus Barnesiella are consistent with the MR results. Transcriptomic and single-cell sequencing analyses revealed intestinal inflammation and mucosal barrier dysfunction in HFD-fed mice. MR revealed a link between HFD consumption and increased levels of interleukin (IL)-18 [odds ratio (OR): 3.64, 95%CI: 1.24, 10.69, P = 0.02], MIG (OR = 3.14, 95%CI: 1.17, 8.47, P = 0.02), IL-13 [OR = 3.21, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08, -9.52, P = 0.04], and IL-2RA (OR = 2.93, 95%CI: 1.01, 8.53, P = 0.049). Twenty-nine immune cell signatures, including altered monocyte and T-cell subsets, were affected by HFD consumption. Twenty-six serum metabolites that are linked to HFD consumption, particularly lipid and amino acid metabolites, were identified. The positive gut microbiota exhibit extensive associations with inflammatory cytokines. In particular, Lachnospiraceae_FCS020 group (OR: 1.93, 95% CI: 1.11, 3.37, P = 0.02) may play a mediating role in HFD-induced increases in IL-2RA concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

Microbial dysbiosis appears to be an important mechanism for HFD-induced SCI. The Lachnospiraceae_FCS020 group may act as a key genus in HFD-mediated elevation of IL-2RA.

Astilbin exerts anti-hypersensitivity by regulating metabolic demand and neuronal activity in rodent model of neuropathic pain

OBJECTIVE

Astilbe chinensis, is a traditional Chinese medicine commonly employed for pain management. However, its primary active ingredient remains a subject of debate.

METHODS

Spinal nerve ligation (SNL) and formalin-induced pain models were employed. Network pharmacology and bioinformatics were utilized to identify targets. Verification was performed through spinal cord double immunofluorescence staining, quantitative PCR and whole-cell recording techniques.

RESULTS

In experiments conducted on neuropathic rats, both systemic and intrathecal administration of astilbin, an essential constituent, exhibited a noteworthy and dose-dependently decrease in chronic and acute pain behaviours. The ED50 value, which represents the dose at which 50% effectiveness is achieved, was measure at 7.59 μg, while the Emax value, indicating the maximum attainable effect, was found to be 60% of the maximal possible effect (% MPE). Forty-two shared targets were identified, enriching the metabolic and synaptic pathways in the network pharmacology analysis, as confirmed by transcriptomic analysis. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed a strong correlation between the anti-nociceptive effects of astilbin and neuronal metabolic processes. Spinal functional ultrasound (FUS) analysis indicated increased spinal blood flow intensity and changes in metabolism-related enzyme activity, including stearoyl-CoA desaturase (Scd), 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (Hsd17b7) and sterol 14alpha-demethylase (Cyp51) in neuropathic rats, pretreatment with astilbin decreased formalin-induced blood flow in acute pain. Bath application of astilbin dose-dependently inhibited neuronal activity by reducing the frequency and amplitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) without affecting miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs).

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, this study provides evidence that astilbin alleviates pain by modulating neuronal metabolic processes and synaptic homeostasis.

Wenshenqianlie capsule improves benign prostatic hyperplasia via its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects play crucial roles in the recovery of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Wenshenqianlie (WSQL) capsule, a typical traditional Chinese medicine formulation combining 14 Chinese herbs, has been reported to exert tonic effects on the kidneys and improve clinical symptoms of BPH. However, its potential antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties and effects on the improvement of hormone levels have not been reported in depth. In this study, mice were subcutaneously injected with TP (5 mg/kg·d-1) to induce BPH. Forty-eight adult BALB/c male mice were randomly allocated to six groups based on the type of drug administered by gavage: control, BPH, BPH+WSQL (40 and 80 mg/kg·d-1), BPH+finasteride (1 mg/kg·d-1), and WSQL-only treated (80 mg/kg·d-1). We investigated the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect and mechanism of WSQL on BPH via histopathological examination, immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and western blotting combined with in vivo serum metabolomics, gut microbiomics analysis. WSQL alleviated prostate hyperplasia and reduced prostate-specific antigen, dihydrotestosterone, testosterone, and inflammation levels. Gut microbiomics and serum non-targeted metabolomics determined that the protective effect of WSQL against BPH may be related to the improvement of inflammation and testosterone-related gut microbiota and serum metabolites. Further studies showed that WSQL ameliorated nuclear factor-kappa B, its downstream inflammatory factors, and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 pathway.

A narrative review on the mechanism of natural flavonoids in improving glucolipid metabolism disorders

Glucolipid metabolism disorder (GLMD) is a complex chronic disease characterized by glucose and lipid metabolism disorders with a complex and diverse etiology and rapidly increasing incidence. Many studies have identified the role of flavonoids in ameliorating GLMD, with mechanisms related to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, nuclear factor kappa-B, AMP-activated protein kinase, nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2, glucose transporter type 4, and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B pathway. However, a comprehensive summary of the flavonoid effects on GLMD is lacking. This study reviewed the roles and mechanisms of natural flavonoids with different structures in the treatment of GLMD reported globally in the past 5 years and provides a reference for developing flavonoids as drugs for treating GLMD.

Investigation of the molecular mechanism of Smilax glabra Roxb. in treating hypertension based on proteomics and bioinformatics

Background

Smilax glabra Roxb. (named tufuling in Chinese, SGR) has both medicinal and edible value. SGR has obvious pharmacological activity, especially in anti-inflammation and treating immune system diseases. This study investigated differential protein expression and its relationship with immune infiltration in hypertension treated with SGR using proteomics and bioinformatics.

Methods

N-Nitro L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) was used to replicate the hypertension model, with SGR administered by gavage for 4 weeks, and the systolic and diastolic blood pressure in each group of rats was measured using the tail-cuff method every 7 days. Furthermore, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) expressions in each group, followed by the detection of protein expression in rat liver samples using the tandem mass tag (TMT) technique. Additionally, hub targets were output using Cytoscape 3.9.1 software, and ALDH2 expression in the liver and serum in each group of rats was detected by ELISA. Moreover, R4.3.0 software was used to evaluate the relationship between acetaldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) and immune cells, and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) was performed to identify the components of SGR. Furthermore, the association between components of SGR and ALDH2 was analyzed with molecular docking and LigPlot1.4.5 software.

Results

Compared with the model group (L-NAME), SGR at high and medium doses reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure while reducing TC, TG, and LDL-C levels and increasing HDL-C levels in hypertensive rats (p < 0.05). Moreover, 92 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified using TMT. These DEPs participated in peroxisome functioning, fatty acid degradation, and other signaling pathways, with ALDH2 being the core target and correlated with various immune cells. In addition, 18 components were determined in SGR, with 8 compounds binding to ALDH2. Molecular docking was performed to confirm that SGR played a role in hypertension based on the combined action of multiple components.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SGR has an antihypertensive effect on L-NAME-induced hypertension, with ALDH2 as its hub target. SGR may regulate neutrophil, regulatory T cell, and other cells' infiltration by targeting ALDH2, thereby contributing to the treatment of hypertension.

Benefits of Monascus anka solid-state fermentation for quinoa polyphenol bioaccessibility and the anti-obesity effect linked with gut microbiota

In our previous study, a polyphenol-utilization targeted quinoa product was developed via solid-state fermentation with Monascus anka. In this study, we investigated the polyphenol-related novel functions of the fermented product further. Compared with unfermented quinoa, M. anka fermented quinoa alleviated the trapping effect of the macromolecules, especially in the colonic fermentation stage, resulting in enhanced polyphenol bioaccessibility. Lachnoclostridium, Megasphaera, Megamonas, Dialister, and Phascolarctobacterium might contribute to polyphenol liberation and metabolism in fermented quinoa. Additionally, fermented quinoa polyphenols presented an efficient anti-obesity effect by enhancing hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities, suppressing fatty acid synthesis, accelerating fatty acid oxidation, and improving bile acid synthesis. Moreover, fermented quinoa polyphenol supplementation alleviated gut microbiota disorder induced by a high-fat diet, resulting in a decreased ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidota, and increased relative abundances of Lactobacillus and Lachnoclostridium. The obtained results suggested that the principal anti-obesity effect of fermented quinoa polyphenols might act through the AMPK/PPARα/CPT-1 pathway. In conclusion, M. anka solid-state fermentation effectively enhanced the bioaccessibility of quinoa, and the fermented quinoa polyphenols showed considerable anti-obesity effect. Our findings provide new perspectives for the development of dietary polyphenol-based satiety-enhancing functional foods.

Dynamics of the Gut Microbiota and Faecal and Serum Metabolomes during Pregnancy-A Longitudinal Study

Normal pregnancy involves numerous physiological changes, including changes in hormone levels, immune responses, and metabolism. Although several studies have shown that the gut microbiota may have an important role in the progression of pregnancy, these findings have been inconsistent, and the relationship between the gut microbiota and metabolites that change dynamically during and after pregnancy remains to be clarified. In this longitudinal study, we comprehensively profiled the temporal dynamics of the gut microbiota, Bifidobacterium communities, and serum and faecal metabolomes of 31 women during their pregnancies and postpartum periods. The microbial composition changed as gestation progressed, with the pregnancy and postpartum periods exhibiting distinct bacterial community characteristics, including significant alterations in the genera of the Lachnospiraceae or Ruminococcaceae families, especially the Lachnospiraceae FCS020 group and Ruminococcaceae UCG-003. Metabolic dynamics, characterised by changes in nutrients important for fetal growth (e.g., docosatrienoic acid), anti-inflammatory metabolites (e.g., trans-3-indoleacrylic acid), and steroid hormones (e.g., progesterone), were observed in both serum and faecal samples during pregnancy. Moreover, a complex correlation was identified between the pregnancy-related microbiota and metabolites, with Ruminococcus1 and Ruminococcaceae UCG-013 making important contributions to changes in faecal and serum metabolites, respectively. Overall, a highly coordinated microbiota-metabolite regulatory network may underlie the pregnancy process. These findings provide a foundation for enhancing our understanding of the molecular processes occurring during the progression of pregnancy, thereby contributing to nutrition and health management during this period.

Selective biosynthesis of a rhamnosyl nosiheptide by a novel bacterial rhamnosyltransferase

Nosiheptide (NOS) is a thiopeptide antibiotic produced by the bacterium Streptomyces actuosus. The hydroxyl group of 3-hydroxypyridine in NOS has been identified as a promising site for modification, which we therefore aimed to rhamnosylate. After screening, Streptomyces sp. 147326 was found to regioselectively attach a rhamnosyl unit to the 3-hydroxypyridine site in NOS, resulting in the formation of a derivative named NOS-R at a productivity of 24.6%. In comparison with NOS, NOS-R exhibited a 17.6-fold increase in aqueous solubility and a new protective effect against MRSA infection in mice, while maintaining a similar in vitro activity. Subsequently, SrGT822 was identified as the rhamnosyltransferase in Streptomyces sp. 147326 responsible for the biosynthesis of NOS-R using dTDP-L-rhamnose. SrGT822 demonstrated an optimal reaction pH of 10.0 and temperature of 55°C, which resulted in a NOS-R yield of 74.9%. Based on the catalytic properties and evolutionary analysis, SrGT822 is anticipated to be a potential rhamnosyltransferase for use in the modification of various complex scaffolds.

Therapeutic effects of Zhuling Jianpi capsule on experimental ulcerative colitis and characterization of its chemical constituents and metabolomics using UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS

Zhuling Jianpi Capsule (Zhuling) is a traditional Chinese medicinal formula used to treat symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the protective effects of Zhuling on experimental ulcerative colitis (UC) and the effective substance responsible for its efficacy have rarely been reported. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of orally administrated Zhuling on DSS-induced UC in mice. The chemical constituents and metabolomics of Zhuling were qualitatively analyzed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS). The results showed that Zhuling treatment markedly alleviated DSS-induced clinical symptoms, restrained the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and improved intestinal epithelial barrier function. Furthermore, a total of 167 compounds have been identified or characterized, and 120 prototype components were detected in the urine, plasma, bile and feces of mice. Among them, altogether 26 representative prototypes were associated with 139 metabolites via the corresponding biotransformation pathways, and both of them mainly contained flavonoids, alkaloids, organic acids, monoterpenes, phenylpropanoids, triterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids and anthraquinones. Finally, 12 potent compounds mainly containing flavonoids, terpenoids and phenylpropanoids were screened out as potential quality control index components and might be the main substances that exert a pharmacological effect. Our data indicated that Zhuling administration prominently alleviates DSS-induced colitis in mice. Additionally, the chemical and metabolic profiling provided helpful information on the potential pharmacodynamic substances of Zhuling, which can be further investigated in the future.

Carbon dots induce pathological damage to the intestine via causing intestinal flora dysbiosis and intestinal inflammation

BACKGROUND

Carbon dots (CDs), as excellent antibacterial nanomaterials, have gained great attention in treating infection-induced diseases such as periodontitis and stomatitis. Given the eventual exposure of CDs to the intestine, elucidating the effect of CDs on intestinal health is required for the safety evaluation of CDs.

RESULTS

Herein, CDs extracted from ε-poly-L-lysine (PL) were chosen to explore the modulation effect of CDs on probiotic behavior in vitro and intestinal remodeling in vivo. Results verify that PL-CDs negatively regulate Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) growth via increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and reducing the antioxidant activity, which subsequently destroys membrane permeability and integrity. PL-CDs are also inclined to inhibit cell viability and accelerate cell apoptosis. In vivo, the gavage of PL-CDs is verified to induce inflammatory infiltration and barrier damage in mice. Moreover, PL-CDs are found to increase the Firmicutes to Bacteroidota (F/B) ratio and the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae while decreasing that of Muribaculaceae.

CONCLUSION

Overall, these evidences indicate that PL-CDs may inevitably result in intestinal flora dysbiosis via inhibiting probiotic growth and simultaneously activating intestinal inflammation, thus causing pathological damage to the intestine, which provides an effective and insightful reference for the potential risk of CDs from the perspective of intestinal remodeling.

Intestinal microbiomics and hepatic metabolomics insights into the potential mechanisms of probiotic Bifidobacterium pseudolongum CCFM1253 preventing acute liver injury in mice

BACKGROUND

Bifidobacterium pseudolongum is widely exists in mammal gut and its abundance is associated with human and animal health. The present study aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms of B. pseudolongum CCFM1253 on protecting against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) by metagenomic analysis and liver metabolomic profiles.

RESULTS

Bifidobacterium pseudolongum CCFM1253 preintervention remarkably attenuated the influence of LPS on serum alanine transaminase and aspartate amino transferase activities. B. pseudolongum CCFM1253 preintervention remarkably attenuated the inflammation responses (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6) and elevated antioxidative enzymes activities [total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase] in ALI mice by intervening in the Nf-kβ and Nrf2 pathways, respectively. Bifidobacterium pseudolongum CCFM1253 treatment elevated the proportion of Alistipes and Bifidobacterium, and decreased the proportion of uncultured Bacteroidales bacterium, Muribaculum, Parasutterella and Ruminococcaceae UCG-010 in ALI mice, which were strongly correlated with the inhibition of inflammation responses and oxidative stress. Untargeted liver metabolomics exhibited that the hepatoprotective efficacy of B. pseudolongum CCFM1253 might be achieved by altering liver metabolites-related riboflavin metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, alanine, citrate cycle (tricarboxylic acid cycle), and so on. Furthermore, riboflavin exposure could control the contents of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in hydrogen peroxide-treated HepG2 cells.

CONCLUSION

Bifidobacterium pseudolongum CCFM1253 can effectively alleviate inflammatory response and oxidative stress, and regulate the intestinal microbiota composition and liver metabolism, and elevate the liver riboflavin content in LPS-treated mice. Therefore, B. pseudolongum CCFM1253 could serves as a potential probiotic to ameliorate the host health. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Phyllanthus emblica aqueous extract retards hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in NAFLD mice in association with the reshaping of intestinal microecology

Accumulating evidence suggests that dysregulation of the intestinal flora potentially contributes to the occurrence and development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Phyllanthus emblica (PE), an edible and medicinal natural resource, exerts excellent effects on ameliorating NAFLD, but the potential mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, a mouse NAFLD model was established by administering a choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined, high-fat diet (CDAHFD). The protective effects of the aqueous extract of PE (AEPE) on the gut microbiota and fecal metabolites in NAFLD mice were detected by performing 16S rRNA gene sequencing and untargeted metabolomics. The administration of middle- and high-dose AEPE decreased the levels of ALT, AST, LDL-C, TG, and Hyp and increased HDL-C levels in CDAHFD-fed mice. Hematoxylin–eosin (H&E), Oil Red O, and Masson’s trichrome staining indicated that AEPE treatment attenuated hepatic steatosis and fibrotic lesions. Moreover, the disordered intestinal microflora was remodeled by AEPE, including decreases in the abundance of Peptostreptococcaceae, Faecalibaculum, and Romboutsia. The untargeted metabolomics analysis showed that AEPE restored the disturbed glutathione metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, taurine and hypotaurine metabolism, and primary bile acid biosynthesis of the gut bacterial community in NAFLD mice, which strongly correlated with hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. Collectively, AEPE potentially ameliorates NAFLD induced by a CDAHFD through a mechanism associated with its modulatory effects on the gut microbiota and microbial metabolism.

The Protective Effects of Neoastilbin on Monosodium Urate Stimulated THP-1-Derived Macrophages and Gouty Arthritis in Mice through NF-κB and NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathways

Gouty arthritis (GA) is a frequent inflammatory disease characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness of joints. Neoastilbin is a flavonoid isolated from the rhizome of Smilax glabra, which possesses various anti-inflammatory effects. However, the mechanism of neoastilbin in treating GA has not yet been clarified. Thus, this study was to investigate the protective effects of neoastilbin in both monosodium urate (MSU) stimulated THP-1-derived macrophages and the animal model of GA by injecting MSU into the ankle joints of mice. The levels of key inflammatory cytokines in MSU stimulated THP-1-derived macrophages were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Protein expressions of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathways were further detected by Western blotting. In addition, swelling degree of ankle joints, the levels of inflammatory factors, infiltration of inflammatory cells and the expressions of related proteins were determined. Swelling degree and histopathological injury in ankle joints of MSU-injected mice were significantly decreased after being treated with neoastilbin. Moreover, neoastilbin significantly diminished the secretion of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), suppressing the activation of NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome pathways in both MSU stimulated THP-1-derived macrophages and the mouse model of GA. In summary, neoastilbin could alleviate GA by inhibiting the NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome pathways, which provided some evidence for neoastilbin as a promising therapeutic agent for GA treatment.