Intestinal barrier: an interface between health and disease

Oat Dietary Fiber Delays the Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease in Mice by Modulating the Gut Microbiota and Reducing Uremic Toxin Levels

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has emerged as a significant public health concern. In this article, we investigated the mechanism of oat dietary fiber in regulating CKD. Our findings indicated that the gut microbiota of CKD patients promoted gut microbiota dysbiosis and kidney injury in CKD mice. Intervention with oat-resistant starch prepared by ultrasonic combined enzymatic hydrolysis (ORSU) and oat β-glucan with a molecular weight of 5 × 104 Da (OBGM) elevated the levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and regulated gut dysbiosis in the gut-humanized CKD mice. ORSU and OBGM also reduced CKD-related uremic toxins such as creatinine, indoxyl sulfate (IS), and p-cresol sulfate (PCS) levels; reinforced the intestinal barrier function of the gut-humanized CKD mice; and mitigated renal inflammation and fibrosis via the NF-κB/TGF-β pathway. Therefore, ORSU and OBGM might delay the progression of CKD by modulating the gut microbiota to reduce uremic toxins levels. Our results explain the mechanism of oat dietary fiber aimed at mitigating CKD.

Astragalus polysaccharide: implication for intestinal barrier, anti-inflammation, and animal production

Intestine is responsible for nutrients absorption and plays a key role in defending against various dietary allergens, antigens, toxins, and pathogens. Accumulating evidence reported a critical role of intestine in maintaining animal and human health. Since the use of antibiotics as growth promoters in animal feed has been restricted in many countries, alternatives to antibiotics have been globally investigated, and polysaccharides are considered as environmentally friendly and promising alternatives to improve intestinal health, which has become a research hotspot due to its antibiotic substitution effect. Astragalus polysaccharide (APS), a biological macromolecule, is extracted from astragalus and has been reported to exhibit complex biological activities involved in intestinal barrier integrity maintenance, intestinal microbiota regulation, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production, and immune response regulation, which are critical for intestine health. The biological activity of APS is related to its chemical structure. In this review, we outlined the source and structure of APS, highlighted recent findings on the regulation of APS on physical barrier, biochemical barrier, immunological barrier, and immune response as well as the latest progress of APS as an antibiotic substitute in animal production. We hope this review could provide scientific basis and new insights for the application of APS in nutrition, clinical medicine and health by understanding particular effects of APS on intestine health, anti-inflammation, and animal production.

A novel "microbiota-host interaction model" to study the real-time effects of fermentation of non-digestible carbohydrate (NDCs) on gut barrier function

In this study, an in vitro co-culture model using an electric cell-substrate impedance sensing system (ECIS) for testing the impact of real-time fermentation of non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs) by the intestinal microbiota on gut barrier function was established. We applied Lactobacillus plantarum WCFS1 as a model intestinal bacterium and alginate-pectin as immobilization polymers as well as a source of NDCs to determine the impact of pectin fermentation on the barrier function of T84 gut epithelial cells. In the first design, L. plantarum WCFS1 was encapsulated in an alginate capsule followed by embedding in an agar layer to mimic a firm mucus layer that might be present in the colon. In this experimental design, the presence of the agar layer interfered with the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurement of T84 cells. Subsequently, we removed the agar layer and used encapsulated bacteria in an alginate gel and found that the TEER measurement was adequate. The encapsulation of the L. plantarum WCFS1 does avoid direct contact with cells. Also, the encapsulation system allows higher amounts of packing densities of L. plantarum WCFS1 in a limited space which can limit the oxygen concentration within the capsule and therefore create anaerobic conditions. To test this design, T84 cells were co-incubated with L. plantarum alginate-capsules supplemented with graded loads of fermentable pectin (0, 4, and 8 mg/ml per capsule) to investigate the effect of pectin fermentation on gut barrier function. We observed that as the pectin content in the L. plantarum capsules increased, pectin showed a gradually stronger protective effect on the TEER of the gut epithelium. This could partly be explained by enhanced SCFA production as both lactate and acetate were enhanced in L. plantarum containing alginate capsules with 8 mg/ml pectin. Overall, this newly designed in vitro co-culture model allows for studying the impact of bacteria-derived fermentation products but also for studying the direct effects of NDCs on gut barrier function in a relatively high-throughput way.

Fabrication of the Rapid Self-Assembly Hydrogels Loaded with Luteolin: Their Structural Characteristics and Protection Effect on Ulcerative Colitis

Luteolin (LUT) is a fat-soluble flavonoid known for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Nonetheless, its use in the food industry has been limited due to its low water solubility and bioavailability. In this study, hyaluronic acid, histidine, and luteolin were self-assembled to construct tubular network hydrogels (HHL) to improve the gastrointestinal stability, bioavailability, and stimulation response of LUT. As anticipated, the HHL hydrogel's mechanical strength and adhesion allow it to withstand the challenging gastrointestinal environment and effectively extend the duration of drug presence in the body. In vivo anti-inflammatory experiments showed that HHL hydrogel could successfully alleviate colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in mice by reducing intestinal inflammation and restoring the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Moreover, HHL hydrogel also regulated the intestinal microorganisms of mice and promoted the production of short-chain fatty acids. The HHL hydrogel group demonstrated a notably superior treatment effect compared to the LUT group alone. The hydrogel delivery system is a novel method to improve the absorption of LUT, increasing its bioavailability and enhancing its pharmaceutical effects.

Gut microbiota connects the brain and the heart: potential mechanisms and clinical implications

Nowadays, high morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and high comorbidity rate of neuropsychiatric disorders contribute to global burden of health and economics. Consequently, a discipline concerning abnormal connections between the brain and the heart and the resulting disease states, known as psychocardiology, has garnered interest among researchers. However, identifying a common pathway that physicians can modulate remains a challenge. Gut microbiota, a constituent part of the human intestinal ecosystem, is likely involved in mutual mechanism CVDs and neuropsychiatric disorder share, which could be a potential target of interventions in psychocardiology. This review aimed to discuss complex interactions from the perspectives of microbial and intestinal dysfunction, behavioral factors, and pathophysiological changes and to present possible approaches to regulating gut microbiota, both of which are future directions in psychocardiology.

Gut Metabolites Acting on the Gut-Brain Axis: Regulating the Functional State of Microglia

The gut-brain axis is a communication channel that mediates a complex interplay of intestinal flora with the neural, endocrine, and immune systems, linking gut and brain functions. Gut metabolites, a group of small molecules produced or consumed by biochemical processes in the gut, are involved in central nervous system regulation via the highly interconnected gut-brain axis affecting microglia indirectly by influencing the structure of the gut-brain axis or directly affecting microglia function and activity. Accordingly, pathological changes in the central nervous system are connected with changes in intestinal metabolite levels as well as altered microglia function and activity, which may contribute to the pathological process of each neuroinflammatory condition. Here, we discuss the mechanisms by which gut metabolites, for instance, the bile acids, short-chain fatty acids, and tryptophan metabolites, regulate the structure of each component of the gut-brain axis, and explore the important roles of gut metabolites in the central nervous system from the perspective of microglia. At the same time, we highlight the roles of gut metabolites affecting microglia in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders. Understanding the relationship between microglia, gut microbiota, neuroinflammation, and neurodevelopmental disorders will help us identify new strategies for treating neuropsychiatric disorders.

Serial passage of PDCoV in cell culture reduces its pathogenicity and its damage of gut microbiota homeostasis in piglets

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is an enteropathogenic coronavirus that mainly causes diarrhea in suckling piglets, and also has the potential for cross-species transmission. However, there are still no commercial vaccines available to prevent and control PDCoV infection. In this study, PDCoV strain HNZK-02 was serially propagated in vitro for up to 150 passages and the amino acid changes have mainly occurred in the S protein during serial passage which caused structure change. PDCoV HNZK-02-passage 5 (P5)-infected piglets exhibited acute and severe watery diarrhea, an obvious intestinal damage, while the piglets infected with PDCoV HNZK-02-P150 showed no obvious clinical signs, weak intestinal lesions, and lower viral loads in rectal swabs and various tissues. Compared with the PDCoV HNZK-02-P5 infection, HNZK-02-P150 infection resulted in a decrease in intestinal mucosal permeability and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, PDCoV HNZK-02-P5 infection had significantly reduced bacterial diversity and increased relative abundance of opportunistic pathogens, while PDCoV HNZK-02-P150 infection did not significantly affect the bacterial diversity, and the relative abundance of probiotics increased. Furthermore, the alterations of gut microbiota were closely related to the change of pro-inflammatory factor. Metagenomics prediction analysis demonstrated that HNZK-02-P150 modulated the tyrosine metabolism, Nucleotide-binding and oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor signaling pathway, and lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis, which coincided with lower inflammatory response and intestinal permeability in the piglets infected with HNZK-02-P150. In conclusion, the PDCoV HNZK-02 was successfully attenuated by serial passage in vitro, and the changes of S gene, metabolic function, and gut microbiota may contribute to the attenuation. The PDCoV HNZK-02-P150 may have the potential for developing live-attenuated vaccine.IMPORTANCEPorcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is an enteropathogen causing severe diarrhea, dehydration, and death in nursing piglets, devastating great economic losses for the global swine industry, and has cross-species transmission and zoonotic potential. There are currently no approved treatments or vaccines available for PDCoV. In addition, gut microbiota has an important relationship with the development of many diseases. Here, the PDCoV virulent HNZK-02 strain was successfully attenuated by serial passage on cell cultures, and the pathogenesis and effects on the gut microbiota composition and metabolic function of the PDCoV HNZK-02-P5 and P150 strains were investigated in piglets. We also found the genetic changes in the S protein during passage in vitro and the gut microbiota may contribute to the pathogenesis of PDCoV, while their interaction molecular mechanism would need to be explored further.

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

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

Inulin prebiotic ameliorates type 1 diabetes dictating regulatory T cell homing via CCR4 to pancreatic islets and butyrogenic gut microbiota in murine model

Gut dysbiosis is linked to type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D). Inulin (INU), a prebiotic, modulates the gut microbiota, promoting beneficial bacteria that produce essential short-chain fatty acids for immune regulation. However, how INU affects T1D remains uncertain. Using a streptozotocin-induced (STZ) mouse model, we studied INU's protective effects. Remarkably, STZ + INU mice resisted T1D, with none developing the disease. They had lower blood glucose, reduced pancreatic inflammation, and normalized serum insulin compared with STZ + SD mice. STZ + INU mice also had enhanced mucus production, abundant Bifidobacterium, Clostridium cluster IV, Akkermansia muciniphila, and increased fecal butyrate. In cecal lymph nodes, we observed fewer CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells expressing CCR4 and more Foxp3+CCR4+ cells in pancreatic islets, with higher CCL17 expression. This phenotype was absent in CCR4-deficient mice on INU. INU supplementation effectively protects against experimental T1D by recruiting CCR4+ regulatory T cells via CCL17 into the pancreas and altering the butyrate-producing microbiota.

Unveiling the underwater threat: Exploring cadmium's adverse effects on tilapia

Prolonged exposure to environmentally relevant amounts of cadmium (Cd) in aquatic environments, even at small doses (0.1 and 1 μg/L), might endanger the health of underwater creatures. This research delved into the impacts of a four-month cadmium exposure on Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus), aiming to uncover the mechanisms behind it. Through close examination, we found that the 4-momth cadmium exposure led to harmful effects on the fish's gills, muscles, brain, and intestines. This exposure also triggered changes in gene expressions in the brain and liver, affected the respiratory system and weakened liver's ability to detoxify and defend against potential infections. Looking deeper into the fish's gut, we noticed alterations in energy-related genes and disruptions in immune pathways, making it more susceptible to illnesses. The exposure to cadmium also had an impact on the fish's gut and water-dwelling microorganisms, reducing diversity and encouraging harmful microbial communities. Interestingly, some gut microbes seemed to assist in breaking down and detoxifying cadmium, which could potentially protect the fish. Taken together, prolonged low-level cadmium exposure impaired gill, muscle, and brain function, suppressed immunity, disrupted intestines, and altered microbial balance, leading to hindered growth. These insights illuminate cadmium's impact on fish, addressing vital environmental concerns.

A neutral polysaccharide from Persicaria hydropiper (L.) Spach ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced intestinal barrier injury via regulating the gut microbiota and modulating AKT/PI3K/mTOR and MAPK signaling pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Persicaria hydropiper (L.) Spach, a herb that is prevalent across Asia and Europe, finds utility as both a culinary ingredient and medicinal herb. In China, P. hydropiper decoction is commonly employed to alleviate dysentery, gastroenteritis, and diarrhea symptoms.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To assess the effects of a neutral polysaccharide from P. hydropiper (PHP) on the intestinal barrier (IB) injury induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice, and elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PHP was extracted from dried P. hydropiper herb using hot water extraction, followed by ethanol precipitation. The extract underwent successive isolation and purification steps involving anion-exchange and gel filtration chromatography. The primary structure of PHP was determined using Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy, ion chromatography, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Male BALB/c mice were randomly assigned to control (CON), model (MOD), berberine hydrochloride (BBR), and PHP (20, 40 and 80 mg/kg) groups. Histopathological changes in jejunal tissues were assessed through hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. The expression levels of proteins and genes involved in AKT/PI3K/mTOR and MAPK signaling pathways were evaluated using qRT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively. The composition and abundance of the gut microbiota in mice were analyzed using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Additionally, the concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were determined using GC-MS.

RESULTS

The main components of PHP included arabinose, galactose, and glucose (molar ratio = 1.00:5.52:11.39). The backbone of PHP consisted of →4)-Glcp-(1→, →4,6)-Glcp-(1→, →4)-Galp-(1→, →4,6)-Galp-(1→. The branched chains primarily consisted of 5)-Araf-(1→ residues, which were attached to the backbone through →6)-Glcp-(1→ and →6)-Galp-(1→ at the 6-position. Histological analysis demonstrated that PHP exhibited a mitigating effect on intestinal damage induced by LPS. PHP could markedly reduce the mRNA levels of PI3K, AKT, mTOR, p70 S6K, Ras, Raf1, MEK1/2, p38, ERK1/2, and JNK, while downregulating the protein levels of p-mTOR, p-PI3K, p-AKT, p-p38, p-ERK, and p-JNK. PHP also modulated the diversities and abundances of the gut microbiota, resulting in an increase in the abundances of Lactobacillaceae, Anaerovoracaceae, Lachnospiraceae, Eggerthellaceae, and Desulfovibrionaceae and a decrease in the abundances of Muribaculaceae, Prevotellaceae, and Rikenellaceae. Additionally, PHP significantly increased the content of various SCFAs.

CONCLUSION

PHP emerges as a pivotal factor in the repair of IB injury by virtue of its ability to regulate the gut microbiota, elevate SCFA levels, and inhibit the MAPK and AKT/PI3K/mTOR pathways. It is worth noting that the therapeutic effect of high-dose PHP was remarkably significant, surpassing even the positive control of berberine hydrochloride.

Impacts of pyraclostrobin on intestinal health and the intestinal microbiota in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)

Pyraclostrobin (PYR) is a strobilurin fungicide that is commonly used in agriculture, and its use in agriculture may lead to an increase in its residue in the aquatic environment and may have a deleterious influence on the intestinal health of aquatic creatures. Here, common carp were chronically exposed to PYR (0, 0.5, or 5.0 μg/L) for 30 d to determine its effect on the physical and immunological barrier and intestinal microbiota in the intestine. PYR exposure caused significant histological changes; altered the mRNA expression levels of occludin, claudin-2, and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1); induced oxidative stress in the common carp intestine; and increased the serum D-lactate and diamine oxidase (DAO) levels. Moreover, PYR significantly increased the protein expression levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and IL-6 while decreasing the level of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). Further studies revealed that PYR significantly reduced lysozyme (LZM) and acid phosphatase (ACP) activities as well as complement 3 (C3) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels. Furthermore, PYR decreased gut microbial diversity while increasing the abundance of pathogenic bacteria such as Aeromonas and Shewanella, causing an intestinal microbial disturbances in common carp. These results imply that PYR has a negative impact on fish intestinal health and may pose serious health risks to fish by disrupting the intestinal microbiota, physical barrier, and immunological barrier in common carp.

Does gut brain axis has an impact on Parkinson's disease (PD)?

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is becoming a growing global concern by being the second most prevalent disease next to Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Henceforth new exploration is needed in search of new aspects towards the disease mechanism and origin. Evidence from recent studies has clearly stated the role of Gut Microbiota (GM) in the maintenance of the brain and as a root cause of various diseases and disorders including other neurological conditions. In the case of PD, with an unknown etiology, the GM is said to have a larger impact on the disease pathophysiology. Although GM and its metabolites are crucial for maintaining the normal physiology of the host, it is an undeniable fact that there is an influence of GM in the pathophysiology of PD. As such the Enteroendocrine Cells (EECs) in the epithelium of the intestine are one of the significant regulators of the gut-brain axis and act as a communication mediator between the gut and the brain. The communication is established via the molecules of neuroendocrine which are said to have a crucial part in neurological diseases such as AD, PD, and other psychiatry-related disorders. This review is focused on understanding the proper role of GM and EECs in PD. Here, we also focus on some of the metabolites and compounds that can interact with the PD genes causing various dysfunctions in the cell and facilitating the disease conditions using bioinformatical tools. Various mechanisms concerning EECs and PD, their identification, the latest studies, and available current therapies have also been discussed.

Characteristics of the gut microbiota of patients with symptomatic carotid atherosclerotic plaques positive for bacterial genetic material

Background

The gut microbiota (GM) is believed to be closely associated with symptomatic carotid atherosclerosis (SCAS), yet more evidence is needed to substantiate the significant role of GM in SCAS. This study, based on the detection of bacterial DNA in carotid plaques, explores the characteristics of GM in SCAS patients with plaque bacterial genetic material positivity, aiming to provide a reference for subsequent research.

Methods

We enrolled 27 healthy individuals (NHF group) and 23 SCAS patients (PFBS group). We utilized 16S rDNA V3-V4 region gene sequencing to analyze the microbiota in fecal samples from both groups, as well as in plaque samples from the carotid bifurcation extending to the origin of the internal carotid artery in all patients.

Results

Our results indicate significant differences in the gut microbiota (GM) between SCAS patients and healthy individuals. The detection rate of bacterial DNA in plaque samples was approximately 26%. Compared to patients with negative plaques (PRSOPWNP group), those with positive plaques (PRSOPWPP group) exhibited significant alterations in their GM, particularly an upregulation of 11 bacterial genera (such as Klebsiella and Streptococcus) in the gut, which were also present in the plaques. In terms of microbial gene function prediction, pathways such as Fluorobenzoate degradation were significantly upregulated in the GM of patients with positive plaques.

Conclusion

In summary, our study is the first to identify significant alterations in the gut microbiota of patients with positive plaques, providing crucial microbial evidence for further exploration of the pathogenesis of SCAS.

The Immuno-Suppressive Effects of Cyclic, Environmental Heat Stress in Broiler Chickens: Local and Systemic Inflammatory Responses to an Intradermal Injection of Lipopolysaccharide

To assess effects of environmental heat stress (HS) on the local and systemic inflammatory responses to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), broilers were reared under thermoneutral (TN) or cyclic HS conditions. Thermoneutral temperatures followed commercial production settings, with HS broilers exposed to 35 °C for 14 h/day from 4 days onward. At 37 days, HS- and TN-broilers were assigned to either LPS (100 μg/mL) or endotoxin-free phosphate-buffered saline (PBS; vehicle) treatments, eight each to HS- and TN-LPS, four each to HS- and TN-PBS. Treatments were administered by intradermal injection of growing feather (GF) pulps; 10 μL/GF; 12 GF/broiler. Blood and GF were collected before and at 6 and 24 h post-injection to assess leukocyte population changes in GF-pulps and blood, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and cytokine expression in GF-pulps, and plasma concentrations of alpha-1 acid glycoprotein (AGP-1). HS-LPS broilers had lower (p ≤ 0.05) infiltration of heterophils and macrophages, ROS generation, and inflammatory cytokine expression in GF-pulps, and lacked the increases in heterophil, monocyte, and plasma AGP-1 concentrations observed in TN-LPS broilers. HS-broilers had similar or greater drops in blood lymphocytes 6 h post-LPS or -PBS injection, respectively, and lower baseline levels (p ≤ 0.05) of circulating T- and B-lymphocytes than TN-broilers. Results indicated that cyclic HS reduced the local and systemic acute inflammatory responses to LPS in broilers, likely impairing their innate defense against microbial infection.

Exploring the potential relationships among obstructive sleep apnea, erectile dysfunction, and gut microbiota: a narrative review

INTRODUCTION

Poor sleep quality is closely associated with comorbidities affecting a multitude of organ systems. Among the sleep disorders in the population, there has recently been an increase in the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which has particularly affected men. The intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation associated with OSA can result in the manifestation or aggravation of a number of pathophysiologic conditions, including the impairment of reproductive function in men and women. In this context, erectile dysfunction (ED) is of particular concern. Other consequences of OSA are changes in the gastrointestinal microbiota, with the resultant dysbiosis having potentially harmful consequences that promote downstream exacerbation of various comorbidities.

OBJECTIVES

This narrative review aims to explore the potential relationships among ED, gut microbiota, and OSA.

METHODS

A search of the relevant literature was performed in the PubMed, Embase, Medline, and Web of Science databases.

RESULTS

Sleep is important for regulating the body's functions, and sleep deprivation can negatively affect health. OSA can damage organic functions, including reproductive function, and can lead to ED. Restoring the microbiota and improving sleep can help to improve sexual function or reverse ED and enhance other associated conditions mediated through the gut-brain axis relationship. Probiotics and prebiotics can be used as supportive strategies in the prevention and treatment of OSA, as they help to reduce systemic inflammation and improve intestinal barrier function.

CONCLUSION

A good diet, a healthy lifestyle, and proper bowel function are essential in controlling depression and several other pathologies. Modulating the gut microbiota through probiotics and prebiotics can provide a viable strategy for developing new therapeutic options in treating many conditions. A better understanding of these a priori unrelated phenomena would foster our understanding of the effects of OSA on human fertility and how changes in gut microbiota may play a role.

The bidirectional relationship between opioids and the gut microbiome: Implications for opioid tolerance and clinical interventions

Opioids are widely used in treating patients with acute and chronic pain; however, this class of drugs is also commonly abused. Opioid use disorder and associated overdoses are becoming more prevalent as the opioid crisis continues. Chronic opioid use is associated with tolerance, which decreases the efficacy of opioids over time, but also puts individuals at risk of fatal overdoses. Therefore, it is essential to identify strategies to reduce opioid tolerance in those that use these agents. The gut microbiome has been found to play a critical role in opioid tolerance, with opioids causing dysbiosis of the gut, and changes in the gut microbiome impacting opioid tolerance. These changes in turn have a detrimental effect on the gut microbiome, creating a positive feedback cycle. We review the bidirectional relationship between the gut microbiome and opioid tolerance, discuss the role of modulation of the gut microbiome as a potential therapeutic option in opioid-induced gut dysbiosis, and suggest opportunities for further research and clinical interventions.

Overcoming biological barriers by virus-like drug particles for drug delivery

Virus-like particles (VLPs) have natural structural antigens similar to those found in viruses, making them valuable in vaccine immunization. Furthermore, VLPs have demonstrated significant potential in drug delivery, and emerged as promising vectors for transporting chemical drug, genetic drug, peptide/protein, and even nanoparticle drug. With virus-like permeability and strong retention, they can effectively target specific organs, tissues or cells, facilitating efficient intracellular drug release. Further modifications allow VLPs to transfer across various physiological barriers, thus acting the purpose of efficient drug delivery and accurate therapy. This article provides an overview of VLPs, covering their structural classifications, deliverable drugs, potential physiological barriers in drug delivery, strategies for overcoming these barriers, and future prospects.

Gut microbiota metabolites, redox status, and the related regulatory effects of probiotics

Oxidative stress is a state of imbalance between oxidation and antioxidation. It is caused by excess levels of free radicals and leads to the damage of DNA, proteins, and lipids. The crucial role of gut microbiota in regulating oxidative stress has been widely demonstrated. Studies have suggested that the redox regulatory effects of gut microbiota are related to gut microbiota metabolites, including fatty acids, lipopolysaccharides, tryptophan metabolites, trimethylamine-N-oxide and polyphenolic metabolites. In recent years, the potential benefits of probiotics have been gaining increasing scientific interest owing to their ability to modulate gut microbiota and oxidative stress. In this review, we summarise the adverse health effects of oxidative stress and discuss the role of the gut microbiota and its metabolites in redox regulation. Based on the influence of gut microbiota metabolites, the roles of probiotics in preventing oxidative stress are highlighted.

Tuning Expectations to Reality: Don't Expect Increased Gut Microbiota Diversity with Dietary Fiber

Dietary approaches, particularly those including fiber supplementation, can be used to promote health benefits by shaping gut microbial communities. Whereas community diversity measures, such as richness and evenness, are often used in microbial ecology to make sense of these complex and vast microbial ecosystems, it is less clear how these concepts apply when dietary fiber supplementation is given. In this perspective, we summarize and demonstrate how factors including experimental approach, number of bacteria sharing a dietary fiber, and initial relative abundances of bacteria that use a fiber can significantly affect diversity outcomes in fiber fermentation studies. We also show that a reduction in alpha diversity is possible, and perhaps expected, for most approaches that use fermentable fibers to beneficially shape the gut microbial community while still achieving health-related improvements.

Probiotic management and inflammatory factors as a novel treatment in cirrhosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The interaction between intestinal microecological dysregulation, altered inflammatory factors, and cirrhosis is unclear. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to synthesize the results of previous studies to assess the efficacy of probiotics in the treatment of cirrhosis and their effect on inflammatory factors, as well as to explore the relationship between gut microecological dysregulation and liver disease to gain a deeper understanding of this interaction. Up to December 2022, eligible studies were identified by searching the following databases: National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Medline, and the Cochrane Library. Statistical analysis was performed using software RevMan Version 5.4. A total of 33 eligible randomized controlled trials were included in the study, and data on probiotic strains, duration of intervention, measures in the control group, and outcomes were extracted and evaluated. Compared to the control group, the experimental group had significant improvements in overall efficacy. The results of the meta-analysis revealed that probiotic use significantly decreased biochemical parameters for liver function, including aspartate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase, and total bilirubin. Similar result was obtained in interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and endotoxin. However, probiotic intervention did not significantly affect interleukin-2 and interleukin-10. The current meta-analysis illustrates that probiotic supplementation reduces inflammatory markers and biochemical parameters for liver function in patients with cirrhosis, suggesting that probiotic management may be a novel treatment for cirrhosis. Furthermore, the interaction of the gut microbiota, associated metabolites, and inflammation factors with cirrhosis may provide a promising therapeutic target for the pharmacological and clinical treatment of cirrhosis.

Specific Milk Composition of miR-30b Transgenic Mice Associated with Early Duodenum Maturation in Offspring with Lasting Consequences for Growth

BACKGROUND

Milk composition is complex and includes numerous components essential for offspring growth and development. In addition to the high abundance of miR-30b microRNA, milk produced by the transgenic mouse model of miR-30b-mammary deregulation displays a significantly altered fatty acid profile. Moreover, wild-type adopted pups fed miR-30b milk present an early growth defect.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the consequences of miR-30b milk feeding on the duodenal development of wild-type neonates, a prime target of suckled milk, along with comprehensive milk phenotyping.

METHODS

The duodenums of wild-type pups fed miR-30b milk were extensively characterized at postnatal day (PND)-5, PND-6, and PND-15 using histological, transcriptomic, proteomic, and duodenal permeability analyses and compared with those of pups fed wild-type milk. Milk of miR-30b foster dams collected at mid-lactation was extensively analyzed using proteomic, metabolomic, and lipidomic approaches and hormonal immunoassays.

RESULTS

At PND-5, wild-type pups fed miR-30b milk showed maturation of their duodenum with 1.5-fold (P < 0.05) and 1.3-fold (P < 0.10) increased expression of Claudin-3 and Claudin-4, respectively, and changes in 8 duodenal proteins (P < 0.10), with an earlier reduction in paracellular and transcellular permeability (183 ng/mL fluorescein sulfonic acid [FSA] and 12 ng/mL horseradish peroxidase [HRP], respectively, compared with 5700 ng/mL FSA and 90 ng/mL HRP in wild-type; P < 0.001). Compared with wild-type milk, miR-30b milk displayed an increase in total lipid (219 g/L compared with 151 g/L; P < 0.05), ceramide (17.6 μM compared with 6.9 μM; P < 0.05), and sphingomyelin concentrations (163.7 μM compared with 76.3 μM; P < 0.05); overexpression of 9 proteins involved in the gut barrier (P < 0.1); and higher insulin and leptin concentrations (1.88 ng/mL and 2.04 ng/mL, respectively, compared with 0.79 ng/mL and 1.06 ng/mL; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

miR-30b milk displays significant changes in bioactive components associated with neonatal duodenal integrity and maturation, which could be involved in the earlier intestinal closure phenotype of the wild-type pups associated with a lower growth rate.

Oral phage therapy with microencapsulated phage A221 against Escherichia coli infections in weaned piglets

BACKGROUND

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common pathogen that often causes diarrhea in piglets. Since bacteria are becoming more and more resistant to antibiotics, phages have become a promising alternative therapy. However, the therapy of oral phage often fails to achieve the desired effect. A novel phage named A221 was isolated by using E. coli GXXW-1103 as host strain, characterized by electron microscopy, genomic sequencing and analyzed by measuring lysis ability in vitro.

RESULTS

Phage A221 was identified as a member of Ackermannviridae, Aglimvirinae, Agtrevirus with 153297 bp genome and effectively inhibited bacterial growth in vitro for 16 h. This study was conducted to evaluate the therapeutic effect of oral microencapsulated phage A221 on E. coli GXXW-1103 infections in weaned piglets. The protective effect of phage was evaluated by body weight analysis, bacterial load and histopathological changes. The results showed that with the treatment of phage A221, the body weight of piglets increased, the percentage of Enterobacteriaceae in duodenum decreased to 0.64%, the lesions in cecum and duodenum were alleviated, and the bacterial load in the jejunal lymph nodes, cecum and spleen were also significantly different with infected group (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The results showed that phage A221 significantly increased the daily weight gain of piglets, reduced the bacterial load of tissues and the intestinal lesions, achieved the same therapeutic effect as antibiotic Florfenicol. Taken together, oral microencapsulated phage A221 has a good therapeutic effect on bacterial diarrhea of weaned piglets, which provides guidance for the clinical application of phage therapy in the future.

Difenoconazole disrupts carp intestinal physical barrier and causes inflammatory response via triggering oxidative stress and apoptosis

As a common fungicide, difenoconazole (DFZ) is widespread in the natural environment and poses many potential threats. Carp makes up a significant proportion of China's freshwater aquaculture population and are vulnerable to the DFZ. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of DFZ (0.488 mg/L and 1.953 mg/L) exposure for 4 d on the intestinal tissues of carp and explored the mechanisms. Specifically, DFZ exposure caused pathological damage to the intestinal tissues of carp, reducing the expression levels of intestinal tight junction proteins, and leading to damage to the intestinal barrier. In addition, DFZ exposure activated the NF-κB signaling pathway, increasing the levels of pro-inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and decreasing the levels of anti-inflammatory factors (IL-10, TGF-β1). As disruption of the intestinal barrier is closely linked to oxidative stress and apoptosis, we have conducted research in both areas for this reason. The results showed that DFZ exposure elevated reactive oxygen species in carp intestines, decreased antioxidant enzyme activity, and suppressed the expression of oxidative stress-related genes. TUNEL results showed that DFZ induced the onset of apoptosis. In addition, the expression levels of apoptosis-related genes and proteins were examined. Western blotting results showed that DFZ could upregulate the protein expression levels of Bax, Cytochrome C and downregulate the protein levels of Bcl-2. qPCR results showed that DFZ could upregulate the transcript levels of Bax, Caspase-3, Caspase-8 and Caspase-9 and downregulate the transcript levels of Bcl-2 transcript levels. This suggests that DFZ can induce apoptosis of mitochondrial pathway in carp intestine. In conclusion, DFZ can induce oxidative stress and apoptosis in carp intestine, leading to the destruction of intestinal physical barrier and the occurrence of inflammation. Our data support the idea that oxidative stress and apoptosis are important triggers of pesticide-induced inflammatory bowel illness.

The Role of Ion Channels in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGID): Evidence of Channelopathies and Potential Avenues for Future Research and Therapeutic Targets

Several gastrointestinal (GI) tract abnormalities, including visceral hypersensitivity, motility, and intestinal permeability alterations, have been implicated in functional GI disorders (FGIDs). Ion channels play a crucial role in all the functions mentioned above. Hormones and natural molecules modulate these channels and represent targets of drugs and bacterial toxins. Mutations and abnormal functional expression of ion channel subunits can lead to diseases called channelopathies. These channelopathies in gastroenterology are gaining a strong interest, and the evidence of co-relationships is increasing. In this review, we describe the correlation status between channelopathies and FGIDs. Different findings are available. Among others, mutations in the ABCC7/CFTR gene have been described as a cause of constipation and diarrhea. Mutations of the SCN5A gene are instead associated with irritable bowel syndrome. In contrast, mutations of the TRPV1 and TRPA genes of the transient receptor potential (TRP) superfamily manifest hypersensitivity and visceral pain in sensory nerves. Recently, mice and humans affected by Cantu syndrome (CS), which is associated with the mutations of the KCNJ8 and ABCC9 genes encoding for the Kir6.1 and SUR2 subunits, showed dysfunction of contractility throughout the intestine and death in the mice after the weaning on solid food. The discovery of a correlation between channelopathies and FIGD opens new avenues for discovering new direct drug targets for specific channelopathies, leading to significant implications for diagnosing and treating functional GI diseases.

The detrimental effects of micro-and nano-plastics on digestive system: An overview of oxidative stress-related adverse outcome pathway

With the massive manufacture and use of plastics, plastic pollution-related environmental impacts have raised great concern in recent years. As byproducts of plastic fragmentation and degradation, microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have been identified as novel pollutants that posed a threat to the ecosystem and humans. Since MPs/NPs could be transported via the food chain and retained in the water, the digestive system should be one of the major targets of MPs/NPs-related toxicity. Although considerable evidence has supported the digestive toxicity of MPs/NPs, the proposed mechanisms remained ambiguous due to the variety of study types, models, and endpoints. This review provided a mechanism-based perspective on MPs/NPs-induced digestive effects by adopting the adverse outcome pathway framework as a promising tool. The overproduction of reactive oxygen species was identified as the molecular initiating event in MPs/NPs-mediated injury to the digestive system. A series of detrimental effects including oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, dysbiosis, and metabolic disorders were summarized as key events. Finally, the occurrence of these effects eventually led to an adverse outcome, suggesting a possible increase in the incidence of digestive morbidity and mortality.

Biogenic selenium nanoparticles alleviate intestinal epithelial barrier injury by regulating mitochondria-lysosome crosstalk

The intestinal epithelial barrier plays a fundamental role in human and animal health. Mitochondrial dysfunction can lead to intestinal epithelial barrier damage. The interaction between mitochondria and lysosomes has been proved to regulate each other's dynamics. Our previous studies have demonstrated that biogenic selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) can alleviate intestinal epithelial barrier injury through regulating mitochondrial autophagy. In this study, we hypothesize that the protective effects of SeNPs against intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction are associated with mitochondrial-lysosomal crosstalk. The results showed that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and TBC1D15 siRNA transfection both caused the increase of intestinal epithelial permeability, activation of mitophagy, and mitochondrial and lysosomal dysfunction in porcine jejunal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2). SeNP pretreatment significantly up-regulated the expression levels of TBC1D15 and Fis1, down-regulated Rab7, caspase-3, MCOLN2 and cathepsin B expression levels, reduced cytoplasmic Ca²⁺ concentration, effectively alleviated mitochondrial and lysosomal dysfunction, and maintained the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier in IPEC-J2 cells exposed to LPS. Furthermore, SeNPs obviously reduced cytoplasmic Ca²⁺ concentration and activated the TBC1D15/Fis/Rab7-mediated signaling pathway, shortened the contact time between mitochondria and lysosomes, inhibited mitophagy, maintained mitochondrial and lysosomal homeostasis, and effectively attenuated intestinal epithelial barrier injury in IPEC-J2 cells transfected with TBC1D15 siRNA. These results indicated that the protective effect of SeNPs on intestinal epithelial barrier injury is closely associated with the TBC1D15/Rab7-mediated mitochondria-lysosome crosstalk signaling pathway.

Gelatin-Based Ingestible Impedance Sensor to Evaluate Gastrointestinal Epithelial Barriers

Low-profile and transient ingestible electronic capsules for diagnostics and therapeutics can replace widely used yet invasive procedures such as endoscopies. Several gastrointestinal diseases such as reflux disease, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and eosinophilic esophagitis result in increased intercellular dilation in epithelial barriers. Currently, the primary method of diagnosing and monitoring epithelial barrier integrity is via endoscopic tissue biopsies followed by histological imaging. Here, a gelatin-based ingestible electronic capsule that can monitor epithelial barriers via electrochemical impedance measurements is proposed. Toward this end, material-specific transfer printing methodologies to manufacture soft-gelatin-based electronics, an in vitro synthetic disease model to validate impedance-based sensing, and tests of capsules using ex vivo using porcine esophageal tissue are described. The technologies described herein can advance next generation of oral diagnostic devices that reduce invasiveness and improve convenience for patients.

Fermented Vegetables as a Potential Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Foods and supplements containing microorganisms with expected beneficial effects are increasingly investigated and utilized in the treatment of human illness, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Research points to a prominent role of gut dysbiosis in the multiple aberrations in gastrointestinal function, immune balance, and mental health seen in IBS. The proposition of the current Perspective is that fermented vegetable foods, in combination with a healthy and stable diet, may be particularly useful for addressing these disturbances. This is based on the recognition that plants and their associated microorganisms have contributed to shaping human microbiota and adaptation over evolutionary time. In particular, lactic acid bacteria with immunomodulatory, antipathogenic, and digestive properties are prevalent in products such as sauerkraut and kimchi. Additionally, by adjusting the salt content and fermentation time, products with a microbial and therapeutic potential beyond that of regular ferments could potentially be produced. Although more clinical data are required to make firm assertions, the low-risk profile, combined with biological considerations and reasoning and considerable circumstantial and anecdotal evidence, indicate that fermented vegetables are worthy of consideration by health professionals and patients dealing with IBS-related issues. To maximize microbial diversity and limit the risk of adverse effects, small doses of multiple products, containing different combinations of traditionally fermented vegetables and/or fruits, is suggested for experimental research and care.

Pingyin Rose Essential Oil Restores Intestinal Barrier Integrity in DSS-induced Mice Colitis Model

Rosa rugosa cv. Plena is a 'drug homologous food' in China with a long history. Pingyin rose essential oil (PREO) is a mixture of compounds extracted from blooming R. rugosa cv. Plena. With its elegant smell and excellent effects on oxidative stress and inflammation alleviation, PREO is wildly used in the food industry as a popular additive. We aimed to decipher if the PREO could alleviate and restore dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced barrier integrity damages. The results showed that a 7-day PREO (15 μL/kg) treatment alleviated the colitis symptoms by improving disease activity index (DAI) scores through weight loss, occult blood, and colon shortening. The expression of tight junction proteins and the enzyme activities of superoxide dismutases (SOD), and catalase (CAT) increased while nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) production decreased in PREO-treated C57BL6 female mice. PREO treatment inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6. Further, PREO modulated the composition of the gut microbiota and Spearman's correlation analysis revealed a positive effect. The transcriptome analysis and western blot results indicated that PREO might ameliorate intestinal barrier dysfunction in this study via the TLR4-NF-kB signaling pathway. We hypothesized that PREO has preventive potential against gut disorders and could serve as a functional food additive.

Orally Administrable Aggregation-Induced Emission-Based Bionic Probe for Imaging and Ameliorating Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

As macrophage infiltration is significantly related to the progression of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), monitoring the macrophages is a valuable strategy for IBD diagnosis. However, owing to the harsh physiological environment of the gastrointestinal tract and enzymatic degradation, the development of orally administrable imaging probes for tracking macrophages remains a considerable challenge. Accordingly, herein, an orally administrable aggregation-induced emission biomimetic probe (HBTTPIP/β-glucan particles [GPs]) is developed for tracing macrophages; HBTTPIP/GPs can diagnose and alleviate dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colonic inflammation and self-report the treatment efficiency. The fluorophore HBTTPIP can effectively aggregate in GPs, restricting intramolecular rotation and activating the fluorescence of HBTTPIP. After being orally administrated, HBTTPIP/GPs are phagocytosed by intestinal macrophages, which then migrate to colonic lesions, enabling non-invasive monitoring of the severity of IBD via in vivo fluorescence imaging. Notably, oral HBTTPIP/GPs ameliorate DSS-induced IBD by inhibiting the expressions of pro-inflammatory factors and improving colonic mucosal barrier function. Furthermore, these HBTTPIP/GPs realize self-feedback of the therapeutic effects of GPs on DSS-induced colitis. The oral biomimetic probe HBTTPIP/GPs reported herein provide a novel theranostic platform for IBD, integrating non-invasive diagnosis of IBD in situ and the corresponding treatment.

Folic Acid Protects against Hyperuricemia in C57BL/6J Mice via Ameliorating Gut-Kidney Axis Dysfunction

Emerging lines of research evidence point to a vital role of gut-kidney axis in the development of hyperuricemia (HUA), which has been identified as an increasing burden worldwide due to the high prevalence. The involved crosstalk which links the metabolic and immune-related pathways is mainly responsible for maintaining the axial homeostasis of uric acid (UA) metabolism. Nowadays, the urate-lowering drugs only aim to treat acute gouty arthritis as a result of their controversial clinical application in HUA. In this study, we established the HUA model of C57BL/6J mice to evaluate the effectiveness of folic acid on UA metabolism and further explored the underlying mechanisms. Folic acid attenuated the kidney tissue injury and excretion dysfunction, as well as the typical fibrosis in HUA mice. Molecular docking results also revealed the structure-activity relationship of the folic acid metabolic unit and the UA transporters GLUT9 and URAT1, implying the potential interaction. Also, folic acid alleviated HUA-induced Th17/Treg imbalance and intestinal tissue damage and inhibited the active state of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, which is closely associated with the circulating LPS level caused by the impaired intestinal permeability. Furthermore, the changes of intestinal microecology induced by HUA were restored by folic acid, including the alteration in the structure and species composition of the gut microbiome community, and metabolite short-chain fatty acids. Collectively, this study revealed that folic acid intervention exerted improving effects on HUA by ameliorating gut-kidney axis dysfunction.

The Mechanism of Important Components in Canine Fecal Microbiota Transplantation

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a potential treatment for many intestinal diseases. In dogs, FMT has been shown to have positive regulation effects in treating Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), canine parvovirus (CPV) enteritis, acute diarrhea (AD), and acute hemorrhagic diarrhea syndrome (AHDS). FMT involves transplanting the functional components of a donor's feces into the gastrointestinal tract of the recipient. The effective components of FMT not only include commensal bacteria, but also include viruses, fungi, bacterial metabolites, and immunoglobulin A (IgA) from the donor feces. By affecting microbiota and regulating host immunity, these components can help the recipient to restore their microbial community, improve their intestinal barrier, and induce anti-inflammation in their intestines, thereby affecting the development of diseases. In addition to the above components, mucin proteins and intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) may be functional ingredients in FMT as well. In addition to the abovementioned indications, FMT is also thought to be useful in treating some other diseases in dogs. Consequently, when preparing FMT fecal material, it is important to preserve the functional components involved. Meanwhile, appropriate fecal material delivery methods should be chosen according to the mechanisms these components act by in FMT.

Survival analyses of the ZeOxaNMulti trial: Follow-up randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of oral PMA-zeolite to prevent chemotherapy-induced side effects, especially peripheral neuropathy

Following the previously published results of the clinical randomized ZeOxaNMulti trial, we evaluated the potential of the tested product PMA-ZEO (Multizeo Med) in the prevention of chemotherapy-induced side effects (especially peripheral neuropathy) within a 30-month follow-up analysis. The aim was to determine the disease-free survival (DFS), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) in a study-population suffering from colorectal cancer that was previously enrolled in the ZeOxaNMulti trial from April 2015 to October 2018. The participants of the study were randomized to receive either PMA-ZEO or placebo while undergoing oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy. A total of 104 patients (pts) (51% of participants randomized to the PMA-ZEO group and 49% to the placebo group), out of a total of 120 pts included in the ZeOxaNMulti trial in 2015, were followed up until March 2021 and were included in the follow-up analysis. According to the chemotherapy line, 44.2% of patients received chemotherapy in an adjuvant setting, and 55.8% of patients received chemotherapy as first-line treatment. The statistical analysis for DFS, PFS, and OS was performed by comparison of the end results with data from the PMA-ZEO/placebo-intervention start point. The analysis of OS did not show statistically significant differences in the first-line chemotherapy patients randomized to PMA-ZEO than among the placebo group (p = 0.1) over the whole period of follow-up (30 months). However, focusing on the PMA-ZEO supplementation time point (7 months), a positive and statistically significant trend (p = 0.004) was documented in the OS analysis for the first-line chemotherapy patients with increasing months of PMA-ZEO treatment compared to the placebo group. Furthermore, borderline statistical significance was reached for PFS at the PMA-ZEO supplementation time point (7 months) in the first-line chemotherapy patients (p = 0.05) for cancer progression events. After stratification of the first-line chemotherapy patients, statistically relevant trends for OS for age, comorbidities, and oxaliplatin dosage (cycles) were also determined. The overall results for DFS (adjuvant patients), PFS (first-line chemotherapy patients), and OS (adjuvant and first-line chemotherapy patients) were generally slightly better in the PMA-ZEO group than in the placebo group, even though no statistically significant results were obtained between the groups within the follow-up period until 2021 (30 months). Based on this follow-up analysis, protective effects of PMA-zeolite supplementation can be deduced. A positive trend and more importantly, significant results in PFS and OS for specific patient groups during and/or after PMA-ZEO treatment were determined, which supports the use of PMA-ZEO as an oncological supportive therapy.

Alcohol use disorder as a potential risk factor for COVID-19 severity: A narrative review

In Dec. 2019-January 2020, a pneumonia illness originating in Wuhan, China, designated as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was shown to be caused by a novel RNA coronavirus designated as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). People with advanced age, male sex, and/or underlying health conditions (obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and chronic lung disease) are especially vulnerable to severe COVID-19 symptoms and death. These risk factors impact the immune system and are also associated with poor health, chronic illness, and shortened longevity. However, a large percent of patients without these known risk factors also develops severe COVID-19 disease that can result in death. Thus, there must exist risk factors that promote exaggerated inflammatory and immune response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus leading to death. One such risk factor may be alcohol misuse and alcohol use disorder because these can exacerbate viral lung infections like SARS, influenza, and pneumonia. Thus, it is highly plausible that alcohol misuse is a risk factor for either increased infection rate when individuals are exposed to SARS-CoV-2 virus and/or more severe COVID-19 in infected patients. Alcohol use is a well-known risk factor for lung diseases and ARDS in SARS patients. We propose that alcohol has three key pathogenic elements in common with other COVID-19 severity risk factors: namely, inflammatory microbiota dysbiosis, leaky gut, and systemic activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. We also propose that these three elements represent targets for therapy for severe COVID-19.

Circulating mtDNA and Impaired Intestinal Barrier after Gastrointestinal Surgery Are Correlated with Postoperative SIRS

Background: This prospective study aimed to explore the correlation between circulating mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), intestinal barrier function impairment, and postoperative SIRS in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. Methods: Patients were recruited into this study after signing an informed consent form. Circulating mitochondrial DNA and serum DAO concentrations were measured preoperatively and on day 1 and day 7 postoperatively. Postoperative vitals, routine tests, and biochemical indicators were recorded in detail. Results: Forty patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery were recruited for and completed this study. Patients were divided into non-fever, fever, and SIRS groups according to their postoperative temperature and other corresponding indexes. The mtDNA was expressed as the number of PCR cycles using three specific sequences. Circulating mtDNA tended to increase in patients after gastrointestinal surgery, but the difference was not significant. Nevertheless, mtDNA in the SIRS group was significantly higher than in patients in the fever and non-fever groups (p < 0.05). Serum DAO showed a trend of increase on the first day after surgery compared with that before surgery, but the difference was not significant (p > 0.05). However, patients in the SIRS group showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) compared with the others. Both circulating mtDNA and DAO showed a downward trend on the seventh day after surgery. Conclusions: Circulating mtDNA presented a trend of increase after gastrointestinal surgery, and the degree of the increased fold was related to the extent of the inflammation response. In general, the intestinal barrier damage indicator DAO was the same as mtDNA and tended to increase after gastrointestinal surgery and then gradually decrease, which may play a synergistic role in inducing postoperative fever and SIRS.

Dietary Supplementation with Epicatechin Improves Intestinal Barrier Integrity in Mice

Epicatechin (EPI) is a dietary flavonoid that is present in many foods and possesses various bioactivities. We assessed the effects of EPI supplementation on intestinal barrier integrity in mice. Thirty-six mice were assigned to three groups and fed a standard diet or a standard diet supplemented with 50 or 100 mg EPI/kg (n = 12 per group). After 21 days of rearing, blood and intestinal samples were collected from eight randomly selected mice. Supplementation with 50 and 100 mg/kg EPI decreased (p < 0.05) the serum diamine oxidase activity and _D-lactic acid concentration and increased (p < 0.05) the duodenal, jejunal, and ileal abundance of tight junction proteins, such as occludin. Moreover, it lowered (p < 0.05) the duodenal, jejunal, and ileal tumor necrosis factor-α contents and enhanced (p < 0.05) the duodenal and jejunal catalase activities and ileal superoxide dismutase activity. Supplementation with a lower dose (50 mg/kg) decreased (p < 0.05) the ileal interleukin-1β content, whereas supplementation with a higher dose (100 mg/kg) increased (p < 0.05) the duodenal and jejunal glutathione peroxidase activities. Furthermore, supplementation with 50 and 100 mg/kg EPI decreased (p < 0.05) cell apoptosis, cleaved cysteinyl aspartate-specific proteinase-3 (caspase-3), and cleaved caspase-9 contents in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. In conclusion, EPI could improve intestinal barrier integrity in mice, thereby suppressing intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress and reducing cell apoptosis.

Purified fish skin collagen hydrolysate attenuates TNF-α induced barrier dysfunction in-vitro and DSS induced colitis in-vivo model

Inflammatory mediators are key components in establishing pathogenesis in inflammatory bowel disease. Balanced expression of anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokines is an important cue in maintaining gut native and adaptive immunity. In the present study, purified hydrolysate fraction of fish skin collagen from Clarias batrachus and Pangasius pangasius was evaluated as a treatment agent against TNF-α induced barrier dysfunction in Caco-2 cell line model and DSS induced colitis in mice model. Cell adhesion on purified hydrolysate fraction coated surfaces was found to be enhanced with increasing concentration in both Clarias batrachus and Pangasius pangasius. Alkaline phosphatase activity was enhanced in a concentration-dependent manner. The paracellular permeability assay demonstrated that Pangasius pangasius purified hydrolysate fraction had countered TNF-α induced barrier dysfunction. Analysis of the tight junction proteins (occludin, zonulae occluden, and claudin) by RT PCR, immunofluorescence, and western blot, further confirmed the effectiveness of Pangasius pangasius purified hydrolysate fraction against TNF-α. The Pangasius pangasius purified hydrolysate fraction was further evaluated for efficacy in DSS-induced colitis mice model. Two concentration of Pangasius pangasius purified hydrolysate was chosen based on in-vitro experiments, 80 μg/kg and 200 μg/kg BW of Balb/C male mice administered through intra-rectal route along with fish skin collagen 80 μg/kg BW. Pangasius pangasius purified hydrolysate fraction treatment improved the clinical signs of colitis such as body weight, rectal bleeding, colon length, and stool consistency caused by DSS administration. Immunofluorescence of colon tissue section showed that Pangasius pangasius purified hydrolysate fraction enhanced the expression of occludin protein. This study hints at the use of Pangasius pangasius purified hydrolysate fraction as a potential nutraceutical or treatment agent in healing ulcers of the mucosa.

Effect of dexmedetomidine on postoperative systemic inflammation and recovery in patients undergoing digest tract cancer surgery: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Perioperative immune function, postoperative cognitive function and prognosis are momentous issues for patients undergoing digestive tract cancer surgery. Studies have investigated the efficacy of dexmedetomidine (DEX) administration on these issues, but the results are inconsistent. Therefore, this meta-analysis aimed to summarize all the existing evidence and draw a conclusion more accurately on these associations. Trials were located through electronic searches of the PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases sources (from the establishment date of databases to April 2022). Bibliographies of the retrieved articles were checked. A total of 17 RCTs involving 1619 patients were included. The results showed that DEX decreased the level of C-reactive protein (SMD = -4.26, 95%CI: -6.16, -2.36), TNF-α (SMD = -4.22, 95%CI: -5.91, -2.54) and IL-6 (SMD = -2.71, 95%CI: -4.46, -0.97), and increased the level of IL-10 (SMD = 1.74, 95%CI: 0.25, 3.24). DEX also increased CD4+ T cells (SMD = 0.55, 95%CI: 0.29, 0.82) and CD4+/CD8+ ratio (SMD = 0.62, 95%CI: 0.24, 1.01). Thus, DEX was associated with alleviation of postoperative systemic inflammatory response and immune dysfunction. Furthermore, DEX increased mini-mental state examination scores at 12h (SMD = 1.10, 95%CI: 0.74,1.45), 24h (SMD = 0.85, 95%CI: 0.59, 1.11), 48h (SMD = 0.89, 95%CI: 0.50, 1.28) and 72h (SMD = 0.75, 95%CI: 0.38, 1.11) after surgery. DEX decreased the occurrence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) at 24h (OR = 0.22, 95%CI: 0.11, 0.46) and 72h (OR = 0.39, 95%CI: 0.22, 0.68) after surgery. DEX decreased first flatus time (SMD = -1.55, 95%CI: -2.82, -0.27) and hospital stay (SMD = -1.23, 95%CI: -1.88, -0.59). Therefore, based on perioperative immune dysfunction alleviation, DEX attenuated POCD and potential neuroinflammation, improved postoperative recovery and clinical prognosis of patients undergoing digest tract cancer surgery. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the clinical application of DEX from an immunological perspective.

Effects of Bacillus subtilis natto JLCC513 on Gut Microbiota and Intestinal Barrier Function in obese Rats

AIMS

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Bacillus subtilis natto JLCC513(JLCC513)on gut microbiota, inflammation and intestinal barrier function in high-fat-diet (HFD) rats.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were fed HFD for 16 weeks, and treated with JLCC513 in 9th weeks. The oral administration of JLCC513 decreased body weight, and reduced the inflammation level in HFD rats. Pathologically, JLCC513 prevented the detachment of ileal villus and increased the villus height in rat. Mechanistically, Western blot analysis showed that the protein levels of tight junction (TJ) proteins involved in intestinal barrier function, including zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), occludin and claudin-1, were increased after JLCC513 treatment. Meanwhile, JLCC513 treatment also decreased the protein levels of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), indicating inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. Furthermore, fecal analysis showed that JLCC513 increased the abundance of Lactobacillus and Oscillospira and the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B), and decreased the levels of Blautia and C_Clostridium.

CONCLUSIONS

JLCC513 alleviated intestinal barrier dysfunction by inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway and regulating gut microbiota disorders.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY

Our study might provide new treatment strategies for the obesity and metabolic diseases.

Probiotics and Gut Microbiota in Obesity: Myths and Realities of a New Health Revolution

Obesity and its comorbidities are humans’ most prevalent cardio-metabolic diseases worldwide. Recent evidence has shown that chronic low-grade inflammation is a common feature in all highly prevalent chronic degenerative diseases. In this sense, the gut microbiota is a complete ecosystem involved in different processes like vitamin synthesis, metabolism regulation, and both appetite and immune system control. Thus, dysbiosis has been recognised as one of the many factors associated with obesity due to a predominance of Firmicutes, a decrease in Bifidobacterium in the gut, and a consequent short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) synthesis reduction leading to a reduction in incretins action and intestinal permeability increase. In this context, bacteria, bacterial endotoxins, and toxic bacterial by-products are translocated to the bloodstream, leading to systemic inflammation. This review focuses on gut microbiota composition and its role in obesity, as well as probiotics and prebiotics benefits in obesity.

Emerging translational strategies and challenges for enhancing regulatory T cell therapy for graft-versus-host disease

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is a curative therapy for many types of cancer. Genetic disparities between donor and host can result in immune-mediated attack of host tissues, known as graft versus host disease (GVHD), a major cause of morbidity and mortality following HSCT. Regulatory CD4+ T cells (Tregs) are a rare cell type crucial for immune system homeostasis, limiting the activation and differentiation of effector T cells (Teff) that are self-reactive or stimulated by foreign antigen exposure. Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) with Treg has demonstrated, first in murine models and now in patients, that prophylactic Treg infusion can also suppress GVHD. While clinical trials have demonstrated Treg reduce severe GVHD occurrence, several impediments remain, including Treg variability and practical need for individualized Treg production for each patient. Additionally, there are challenges in the use of in vitro expansion techniques and in achieving in vivo Treg persistence in context of both immune suppressive drugs and in lymphoreplete patients being treated for GVHD. This review will focus on 3 main translational approaches taken to improve the efficacy of tTreg ACT in GVHD prophylaxis and development of treatment options, following HSCT: genetic modification, manipulating TCR and cytokine signaling, and Treg production protocols. In vitro expansion for Treg ACT presents a multitude of approaches for gene modification to improve efficacy, including: antigen specificity, tissue targeting, deletion of negative regulators/exhaustion markers, resistance to immunosuppressive drugs common in GVHD treatment. Such expansion is particularly important in patients without significant lymphopenia that can drive Treg expansion, enabling a favorable Treg:Teff ratio in vivo. Several potential therapeutics have also been identified that enhance tTreg stability or persistence/expansion following ACT that target specific pathways, including: DNA/histone methylation status, TCR/co-stimulation signaling, and IL-2/STAT5 signaling. Finally, this review will discuss improvements in Treg production related to tissue source, Treg subsets, therapeutic approaches to increase Treg suppression and stability during tTreg expansion, and potential for storing large numbers of Treg from a single production run to be used as an off-the-shelf infusion product capable of treating multiple recipients.

Hexavalent Chromium Exposure Induces Intestinal Barrier Damage via Activation of the NF-κB Signaling Pathway and NLRP3 Inflammasome in Ducks

Hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] is a dangerous heavy metal which can impair the gastrointestinal system in various species; however, the processes behind Cr(VI)-induced intestinal barrier damage are unknown. Forty-eight healthy 1-day-old ducks were stochastically assigned to four groups and fed a basal ration containing various Cr(VI) dosages for 49 days. Results of the study suggested that Cr(VI) exposure could significantly increase the content of Cr(VI) in the jejunum, increase the level of diamine oxidase (DAO) in serum, affect the production performance, cause histological abnormalities (shortening of the intestinal villi, deepening of the crypt depth, reduction and fragmentation of microvilli) and significantly reduced the mRNA levels of intestinal barrier-related genes (ZO-1, occludin, claudin-1, and MUC2) and protein levels of ZO-1, occludin, cand laudin-1, resulting in intestinal barrier damage. Furthermore, Cr(VI) intake could increase the contents of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-18 (IL-18) but decrease the activities of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione reductase (GR), as well as up-regulate the mRNA levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, TNFα, IL-6, NLRP3, caspase-1, ASC, IL-1β, and IL-18 and protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, NLRP3, caspase-1, ASC, IL-1β, and IL-18 in the jejunum. In conclusion, Cr(VI) could cause intestinal oxidative damage and inflammation in duck jejunum by activating the NF-κB signaling pathway and the NLRP3 inflammasome.

An unexpected cause of colitis

Gastrointestinal manifestations are common among patients with advanced kidney disease. Common symptoms include poor appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Prevalent lesions include esophagitis, gastritis, and duodenitis. Uremia-associated colitis is extremely rare. In this case report we present a young patient who present with end-stage kidney disease of unknown origin accompanied by abdominal pain and vomiting. Computed tomography showed severe bowel wall thickening of the colon. Due to extreme uremic state uremia-associated colitis was suspected and hemodialysis was initiated immediately, resulted in clinical and radiology improvement.

Microbiota-microglia connections in age-related cognition decline

Aging is an inevitable process that all individuals experience, of which the extent differs among individuals. It has been recognized as the risk factor of neurodegenerative diseases by affecting gut microbiota compositions, microglia, and cognition abilities. Aging‐induced changes in gut microbiota compositions have a critical role in orchestrating the morphology and functions of microglia through the gut‐brain axis. Gut microbiota communicates with microglia by its secreted metabolites and neurotransmitters. This is highly associated with age‐related cognitive declines. Here, we review the main composition of microbiota in the aged individuals, outline the changes of the brain in age‐related cognitive decline from a neuroinflammation perspective, especially the changes of morphology and functions of microglia, discuss the crosstalk between microbiota and microglia in the aged brain and further highlight the role of microbiota‐microglia connections in neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease).

Coated tannin supplementation improves growth performance, nutrients digestibility, and intestinal function in weaned piglets

To explore the effect of coated tannin (CT) on the growth performance, nutrients digestibility, and intestinal function in weaned piglets, a total of 180 piglets Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire (28 d old) weighing about 8.6 kg were randomly allotted to three treatments: 1) Con: basal diet (contains ZnSO4); 2) Tan: basal diet + 0.15% CT; and 3) ZnO: basal diet + ZnO (Zn content is 1,600 mg/kg). The results showed that 0.15% CT could highly increase the average daily gain and average daily feed intake of weaned piglets compared with the control group, especially decreasing diarrhea incidence significantly (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, crude protein apparent digestibility and digestive enzyme activity of the piglets fed with 0.15% CT were enhanced obviously (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the intestinal villi and microvilli arranged more densely, while the content of serum diamine oxidase was decreased, and the protein expressions of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and claudin-1 were significantly upregulated (P < 0.05). In addition, CT altered the structure of intestinal microbiota and augmented some butyrate-producing bacteria such as Ruminococcaceae and Megasphaera. PICRUSt (Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States) analysis also showed that the abundances of pathways related to butyrate metabolism and tryptophan metabolism were increased; however, the function of lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis proteins was significantly decreased. The results demonstrated that 0.15% CT could improve growth performance, digestibility, and intestinal function of weaned piglets, and it had the potential to replace ZnO applied to farming.

Integrated analysis of fish intestine biomarkers: Complementary tools for pollution assessment

The gastrointestinal tract and its enteric nervous system are the first routes of food and xenobiotics uptake. Considering the importance of this organ, this study evaluated intestinal biomarkers of Sphoeroides testudineus integrating the data to generate tools for pollution assessment. The fish were collected in three sites of São Paulo Coast and their intestines were analyzed for biochemical, histology, and neuronal density and morphometry biomarkers. To evaluate the differences among the data, a PERMANOVA was applied, followed by a FA/PCA. The PERMANOVA indicated differences (P < 0.001) between the regions (RA, A1, and A2). Four factors were extracted from the FA/PCA (62% cumulative), showing that the animals from A2 presented severe alterations, mainly in intestinal morphometry and neuronal density. A1 alterations refer mainly to the increase of neuronal metabolism. Our results also evidence a gradient of environmental quality related to the protection level (AR > A1 > A2).

Preclinical In Vitro Model to Assess the Changes in Permeability and Cytotoxicity of Polarized Intestinal Epithelial Cells during Exposure Mimicking Oral or Intravenous Routes: An Example of Arsenite Exposure

The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is exposed to xenobiotics, including drugs, through both: local (oral) and systemic routes. Despite the advances in drug discovery and in vitro pre-clinical models, there is a lack of appropriate translational models to distinguish the impact of these routes of exposure. Changes in intestinal permeability has been observed in different gastrointestinal and systemic diseases. This study utilized one such xenobiotic, arsenic, to which more than 200 million people around the globe are exposed via their food, drinking water, work environment, soil, and air. The purpose of this study was to establish an in vitro model to mimic gastrointestinal tract exposure to xenobiotics via oral or intravenous routes. To achieve this, we compared the route (mimicking oral and intravenous exposure to GIT and the dose response (using threshold approach) of trivalent and pentavalent inorganic arsenic species on the permeability of in vitro cultured polarized T84 cells, an example of intestinal epithelial cells. Arsenic treatment to polarized T84 cells via the apical and basolateral compartment of the trans-well system reflected oral or intravenous routes of exposure in vivo, respectively. Sodium arsenite, sodium arsenate, dimethyl arsenic acid sodium salt (DMA^V), and disodium methyl arsonate hydrate (MMA^V) were assessed for their effects on intestinal permeability by measuring the change in trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) of T-84 cells. Polarized T-84 cells exposed to 12.8 µM of sodium arsenite from the basolateral side showed a marked reduction in TEER. Cytotoxicity of sodium arsenite, as measured by release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), was increased when cells were exposed via the basolateral side. The mRNA expression of genes related to cell junctions in T-84 cells was analyzed after exposure with sodium arsenite for 72 h. Changes in TEER correlated with mRNA expression of focal-adhesion-, tight-junction- and gap-junction-related genes (upregulation of Jam2, Itgb3 and Notch4 genes and downregulation of Cldn2, Cldn3, Gjb1, and Gjb2). Overall, exposure to sodium arsenite from the basolateral side was found to have a differential effect on monolayer permeability and on cell-junction-related genes as compared to apical exposure. Most importantly, this study established a preclinical human-relevant in vitro translational model to assess the changes in permeability and cytotoxicity during exposure, mimicking oral or intravenous routes.

Effect of Humantenine on mRNA m6A Modification and Expression in Human Colon Cancer Cell Line HCT116

Humantenine, an alkaloid isolated from the medicinal herb Gelsemium elegans (Gardner & Chapm.) Benth., has been reported to induce intestinal irritation, but the underlying toxicological mechanisms remain unclear. The object of the present study was to investigate the RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and distinct mRNA transcriptome profiles in humantenine-treated HCT116 human colon cancer cells. High-throughput MeRIP-seq and mRNA-seq were performed, and bioinformatic analysis was performed to reveal the role of abnormal RNA m6A modification and mRNA expression in humantenine-induced intestinal cell toxicity. After humantenine treatment of HCT116 cells, 1401 genes were in the overlap of differentially m6A-modified mRNA and differentially expressed mRNA. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and Gene Ontology annotation terms for actin cytoskeleton, tight junctions, and adherens junctions were enriched. A total of 11 kinds of RNA m6A methylation regulators were differentially expressed. The m6A methylation levels of target genes were disordered in the humantenine group. In conclusion, this study suggested that the HCT116 cell injury induced by humantenine was associated with the abnormal mRNA expression of m6A regulators, as well as disordered m6A methylation levels of target genes.

Effects of Immobilized Antimicrobial Peptides on Growth Performance, Serum Biochemical Index, Inflammatory Factors, Intestinal Morphology, and Microbial Community in Weaning Pigs

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of immobilized antimicrobial peptides on growth performance, serum biochemical index, inflammatory factors, intestinal morphology, and microbial community of weaning piglets. A total of 21 weaning piglets [Duroc × (Landrace × Yorkshire)] with initial body weight (7.64 ± 0.65 kg) were randomly allocated to one of three treatments with seven replicates (one pig per replicate) per treatment according to sex and weight in randomized complete block design. Pigs in the three treatments were fed corn–soybean meal-based diet (CON), corn–soybean meal based diet + flavomycin (25 mg/kg) + quinone (50 mg/kg) (AB), and corn–soybean meal based diet + 1,000 mg/kg immobilized antimicrobial peptides (IAMPs), respectively. The experiment lasted for 28 days, including early stage (0–14 days) and late stage (15–28 days). The results showed the following: (1) compared with the CON group, the average daily gain in the whole experimental time (p < 0.05) was significantly increased, and the diarrhea rate of weaning piglets was decreased (p < 0.01) in the IAMPs group; (2) compared with the CON group, the concentrations of serum IgM and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the IAMPs group were significantly higher than the CON and AB groups (p < 0.01); (3) compared with CON group, the concentrations of serum interleukin (IL)-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF-β) were significantly increased (p < 0.05), and the concentration of IL-12 was significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in the IAMPs group; (4) compared with CON group, the concentrations of serum endotoxin and D-lactate of piglets were significantly reduced (p < 0.05), and the relative expression of ZO-1 and occludin in the jejunum of piglets were significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the IAMPs group; (5) compared with the CON group, the villus height of the duodenum and jejunum of weaning piglets in IAMPs and AB groups was significantly increased (p < 0.05); and (6) compared with CON group, the relative abundance of Escherichia–Shigella in the colon and cecal digesta was decreased. In summary, the addition of 1,000 mg/kg immobilized antimicrobial peptides in the diet effectively relieved weaning stress by showing improved growth performance, antioxidant and immune capacity, intestinal morphology, and microorganisms.