Antioxidative probiotic fermented goats' milk decreases oxidative stress-mediated atherogenicity in human subjects

The effects of synbiotic supplementation on blood pressure and other maternal outcomes in pregnant mothers with mild preeclampsia: a triple-blinded randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Preeclampsia affects a significant percentage of pregnancies which is a leading cause of premature birth. Probiotics have the potential to affect inflammatory factors, and oxidative stress, which are linked to the development of preeclampsia. The study aimed to compare the effect of synbiotic and placebo on blood pressure and pregnancy duration as primary outcomes, and other pregnancy outcomes.

METHODS

This study comprised 128 pregnant women with mild preeclampsia and gestational ages exceeding 24 weeks who were referred to the high-risk pregnancy clinic. It was a randomized, controlled, phase III, triple-blinded clinical experiment. The intervention and control groups were distributed to the participants at random. Intervention group received one oral synbiotic capsule, and control group received placebo daily until delivery. Based on gestational age at the time of diagnosis, preeclampsia was stratificated as early (< 34 weeks) or late (≥ 34 weeks). Data obtained from questionnaires, and biochemical serum factors were analyzed using SPSS software version 23 software.

RESULTS

With the exception of the history of taking vitamin D3, there were no statistically significant variations in socio-demographic variables between the research groups. After the intervention, the means of systolic blood pressure (adjusted mean difference: -13.54, 95% CI: -5.01 to -22.07), and diastolic blood pressure (adjusted mean difference: -10.30, 95% CI: -4.70 to -15.90) were significantly lower in the synbiotic-supplemented group than in the placebo group. Compared to the placebo group, the incidence of severe PE (p < 0.001), proteinuria (p = 0.044), and mean serum creatinine level (p = 0.005) significantly declined in the synbiotic-supplemented group after the intervention. However, our analysis found no significant association for other outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Based on our results, synbiotic had beneficial effects on some pregnancy outcomes. Further studies with larger samples are needed to verify the advantages of synbiotic supplementation for high-risk pregnancies, particularly with regards to higher doses, and longer intervention periods.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

IRCT20110606006709N20.

Therapeutic efficacy of probiotics for symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of probiotics as a therapeutic alternative for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remain unclear.

AIMS

To investigate the effectiveness of probiotics for symptoms of ADHD and identify possible factors affecting their efficacy.

METHOD

Randomised placebo-controlled trials were identified through searching major databases from inception to April 2023, using the main keywords 'probiotics' and 'ADHD' without limitation on languages or geographic locations. The outcome of interest included improvement in total symptoms of ADHD, symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity, and drop-out rate. Continuous and categorical data were expressed as effect sizes based on standardised mean differences (SMDs) and odds ratios, respectively, with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Meta-analysis of seven trials involving 379 participants (mean age 10.37 years, range 4-18 years) showed no significant improvement in total symptoms of ADHD (SMD = 0.25; P = 0.12), symptoms of inattention (SMD = 0.14; P = 0.3) or hyperactivity/impulsivity (SMD = 0.08; P = 0.54) between the probiotic and placebo groups. Despite non-significance on subgroup analyses, there was a large difference in effect size between studies using probiotics as an adjunct to methylphenidate and those using probiotics as supplementation (SMD = 0.84 v. 0.07; P = 0.16), and a moderate difference in effect size between studies using multiple strains of probiotics and those using single-strain regimens (SMD = 0.45 v. 0.03; P = 0.19).

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence shows no significant difference in therapeutic efficacy between probiotics and placebos for treatment of ADHD symptoms. However, albeit statistically non-significant, higher therapeutic efficacies associated with multiple-strain probiotics or combining probiotics with methylphenidate may provide direction for further research.

Effects of probiotics on neurocognitive outcomes in infants and young children: a meta-analysis

Background

Therapeutic efficacies of probiotics in improving neurocognitive functions in infants and young children remained unclear. This meta-analysis focused on different cognitive outcomes in this population.

Methods

Major databases were searched electronically from inception to October 2023 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the therapeutic efficacy of probiotics in enhancing cognitive functions assessed by standardized tasks. The overall effect size was calculated as standardized mean difference (SMD) based on a random effects model.

Results

Nine RCTs with 3,026 participants were identified. Both our primary and secondary results demonstrated no significant difference in neurocognitive outcomes between infants/children treated with probiotics and those receiving placebos. However, our subgroup analysis of studies that offered a probiotics treatment course of over six months demonstrated a significantly better neurocognitive outcome than placebos (SMD = 0.21, p = 0.03, two studies with 451 participants), but this finding was based on only two RCTs.

Conclusion

Despite lack of significant therapeutic effects of probiotics on neurocognitive outcomes, our finding of a positive impact of probiotics on neurocognitive development in those undergoing treatment for over six months may provide an important direction for further investigations into the enhancement of therapeutic effects of probiotics on neurocognitive development in infants and young children.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42023463412.

The effect and safety of probiotics on depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

PURPOSE

With the escalating social pressures, there has been a continuous rise in the prevalence of depression among the population, leading to substantial healthcare burdens. Moreover, conventional pharmacological interventions still exhibit certain limitations. Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to systematically evaluate the clinical efficacy of probiotics in the treatment of depression.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials of probiotics in treating depressive symptoms were retrieved from Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Wan Fang database, and CNKI between the establishment of the database and March 2022. The primary outcome was Beck's depression rating scale (BDI) scores, while the secondary outcomes were depression scores on the DASS-21 scale, biochemical indicators (IL-6, NO, and TNF-α levels), and adverse events. In addition, Revman 5.3 was used for Meta-analysis and quality evaluation, and Stata 17 was used for the Egger test and Begg's test. A total of 776 patients, including 397 and 379 patients in the experimental and control groups, respectively, were included.

RESULTS

The total BDI score of the experimental group was lower than that of the control group (MD = - 1.98, 95%CI - 3.14 to - 0.82), and the score of DASS (MD = 0.90, 95%CI - 1.17 to 2.98), the IL-6 level (SMD = - 0.55, 95%CI - 0.88 to - 0.23), the NO level (MD = 5.27, 95% CI 2.51 to 8.03), and the TNF-α level (SMD = 0.19, 95% CI - 0.25 to 0.63).

CONCLUSION

The findings substantiate the therapeutic potential of probiotics in mitigating depressive symptoms by significantly reducing Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI) scores and alleviating the overall manifestation of depression.

Marinades Based on Natural Ingredients as a Way to Improve the Quality and Shelf Life of Meat: A Review

Marinating is a traditional method of improving the quality of meat, but it has been modified in response to consumer demand for "clean label" products. The aim of this review is to present scientific literature on the natural ingredients contained in marinades, the parameters of the marinating process, and certain mechanisms that bring about changes in meat. A review was carried out of publications from 2000 to 2023 available in Web of Science on the natural ingredients of meat marinades: fruit and vegetables, seasonings, fermented dairy products, wine, and beer. The review showed that natural marinades improve the sensory quality of meat and its culinary properties; they also extend its shelf life. They affect the safety of meat products by limiting the oxidation of fats and proteins. They also reduce biogenic amines and the formation of heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). This is possible due to the presence of biologically active substances and competitive microflora from dairy products. However, some marinades, especially those that are acidic, cause a slightly acidic flavour and an unfavourable colour change. Natural compounds in the ingredients of marinades are accepted by consumers. There are no results in the literature on the impact of natural marinades on the nutritional value and health-promoting potential of meat products, so it can be assumed that this is a future direction for scientific research.

Anti-oxidant potential of plants and probiotic spp. in alleviating oxidative stress induced by H2O2

Cells produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) as a metabolic by-product. ROS molecules trigger oxidative stress as a feedback response that significantly initiates biological processes such as autophagy, apoptosis, and necrosis. Furthermore, extensive research has revealed that hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is an important ROS entity and plays a crucial role in several physiological processes, including cell differentiation, cell signalling, and apoptosis. However, excessive production of H2O2 has been shown to disrupt biomolecules and cell organelles, leading to an inflammatory response and contributing to the development of health complications such as collagen deposition, aging, liver fibrosis, sepsis, ulcerative colitis, etc. Extracts of different plant species, phytochemicals, and Lactobacillus sp (probiotic) have been reported for their anti-oxidant potential. In this view, the researchers have gained significant interest in exploring the potential plants spp., their phytochemicals, and the potential of Lactobacillus sp. strains that exhibit anti-oxidant properties and health benefits. Thus, the current review focuses on comprehending the information related to the formation of H2O2, the factors influencing it, and their pathophysiology imposed on human health. Moreover, this review also discussed the anti-oxidant potential and role of different extract of plants, Lactobacillus sp. and their fermented products in curbing H2O2‑induced oxidative stress in both in-vitro and in-vivo models via boosting the anti-oxidative activity, inhibiting of important enzyme release and downregulation of cytochrome c, cleaved caspases-3, - 8, and - 9 expression. In particular, this knowledge will assist R&D sections in biopharmaceutical and food industries in developing herbal medicine and probiotics-based or derived food products that can effectively alleviate oxidative stress issues induced by H2O2 generation.

Supplementation with antioxidants and phenolic compounds in ruminant feeding and its effect on dairy products: a systematic review

Milk and dairy products have great importance in human nutrition related to the presence of different nutrients, including protein, fatty acid profile and bioactive compounds. Dietary supplementation with foods containing these types of compounds may influence the chemical composition of milk and dairy products and hence, potentially, the consumer. Our objective was to summarize the evidence of the effect of supplementation with antioxidants and phenolic compounds in the diets of dairy animals and their effects on milk and dairy products. We conducted a systematic search in the MEDLINE/PubMed database for studies published up until July 2022 that reported on supplementation with antioxidants and phenolic compounds in diets that included plants, herbs, seeds, grains and isolated bioactive compounds of dairy animals such as cows, sheep and goats and their effects on milk and dairy products. Of the 94 studies identified in the search, only 15 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. The review revealed that supplementation with false flax cake, sweet grass, Acacia farnesiana, mushroom myceliated grains and sweet grass promoted an effect on the milk lipid profile, whereas supplementation with dried grape pomace and tannin extract promoted an effect on the milk and cheese lipid profiles. In six studies, the addition of Acacia farnesiana, hesperidin or naringin, durum wheat bran, mushroom myceliated grains, dried grape pomace and olive leaves increased the antioxidant activity of milk. In conclusion, supplementation with bioactive compounds had a positive impact which ranged from an increase in antioxidant capacity to a decrease in oxidative biomarkers such as malondialdehyde.

Protective Effect of Limosilactobacillus fermentum ME-3 against the Increase in Paracellular Permeability Induced by Chemotherapy or Inflammatory Conditions in Caco-2 Cell Models

Chemotherapy- or inflammation-induced increase in intestinal permeability represents a severe element in disease evolution in patients suffering from colorectal cancer and gut inflammatory conditions. Emerging data strongly support the gut microbiota’s role in preserving intestinal barrier integrity, whilst both chemotherapy and gut inflammation alter microbiota composition. Some probiotics might have a strong re-balancing effect on the gut microbiota, also positively affecting intestinal barrier integrity. In this study, we asked whether Limosilactobacillus fermentum ME-3 can prevent the intestinal paracellular permeability increase caused by the chemotherapeutic drug Irinotecan or by inflammatory stimuli, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS). As an intestinal barrier model, we used a confluent and polarized Caco-2 cell monolayer and assessed the ME-3-induced effect on paracellular permeability by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and fluorescent-dextran flux assays. The integrity of tight and adherens junctions was examined by confocal microscopy analysis. Transwell co-cultures of Caco-2 cells and U937-derived macrophages were used as models of LPS-induced intestinal inflammation to test the effect of ME-3 on release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines Tumor Necrosis Factor α, Interleukin-6, and Interleukin-8, was measured by ELISA. The results demonstrate that ME-3 prevents the IRI-induced increment in paracellular permeability, possibly by modulating the expression and localization of cell junction components. In addition, ME-3 inhibited both the increase in paracellular permeability and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the co-culture model of LPS-induced inflammation. Our findings sustain the validity of L. fermentum ME-3 as a valuable therapeutic tool for preventing leaky gut syndrome, still currently without an available specific treatment.

Impact of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Inducia on metabolic and antioxidative response in cholesterol and BMI variable indices: randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials

Probiotics may have potential in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in middle-aged persons with borderline metabolic indices. The ability of potential probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Inducia to reduce CVD risk factors in persons with variable cholesterol and body mass indices (BMI) was assessed. In two parallel-armed double-blind placebo-controlled interventions (n=136) and (n=104), participants daily received either test yoghurt (Inducia) or placebo yoghurt. BMI, blood pressure, plasma glucose, cholesterol, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), oxidative stress and immunological markers were measured. Total counts of lactobacilli and L. plantarum Inducia were evaluated using real-time PCR. Significant reduction of total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and non-high-density cholesterol occurred in both trials. The change in cholesterol (P=0.023) in persons with normal BMI and borderline cholesterol levels after four weeks of yoghurt consumption was detected. A difference was also found between placebo and test yoghurt groups (P=0.042) in LDL-c with normal BMI. Blood glucose reduction (P=0.01) and antioxidative effect was detected in overweight volunteers of the test yoghurt group. The suppression of oxidised LDL was associated with lowered oxidative stress index and total peroxide concentration values and faecal recovery of Inducia. The Inducia strain expresses antioxidative effect on blood lipids and has anti-glycaemic impact that allow to apply it as dietary probiotic supplement for the management of CVD risks in humans.

Gut microbiota as an antioxidant system in centenarians associated with high antioxidant activities of gut-resident Lactobacillus

The gut microbiota plays an important role in human health and longevity, and the gut microbiota of centenarians shows unique characteristics. Nowadays, most microbial research on longevity is usually limited to the bioinformatics level, lacking validating information on culturing functional microorganisms. Here, we combined metagenomic sequencing and large-scale in vitro culture to reveal the unique gut microbial structure of the world's longevity town-Jiaoling, China, centenarians and people of different ages. Functional strains were isolated and screened in vitro, and the possible relationship between gut microbes and longevity was explored and validated in vivo. 247 healthy Cantonese natives of different ages participated in the study, including 18 centenarians. Compared with young adults, the gut microbiota of centenarians exhibits higher microbial diversity, xenobiotics biodegradation and metabolism, oxidoreductases, and multiple species (the potential probiotics Lactobacillus, Akkermansia, the methanogenic Methanobrevibacter, gut butyrate-producing members Roseburia, and SCFA-producing species uncl Clostridiales, uncl Ruminococcaceae) known to be beneficial to host metabolism. These species are constantly changing with age. We also isolated 2055 strains from these samples by large-scale in vitro culture, most of which were detected by metagenomics, with clear complementarity between the two approaches. We also screened an age-related gut-resident Lactobacillus with independent intellectual property rights, and its metabolite (L-ascorbic acid) and itself have good antioxidant effects. Our findings underscore the existence of age-related trajectories in the human gut microbiota, and that distinct gut microbiota and gut-resident as antioxidant systems may contribute to health and longevity.

Nutritional Profile, Processing and Potential Products: A Comparative Review of Goat Milk

Goat milk contains an abundance of different macro and micro-nutrients. Compared with other milk, goat milk is a viable option due to its low allergy levels and is preferred for infants with cow milk allergies. A wide variety of goat milk-based products, including yoghurt, ice cream, fermented milk, and cheese, are available on the market. They are produced using effective processing technology and are known to exhibit numerous health benefits after consumption. However, goat milk consumption is limited in many nations (compared with cow, buffalo, camel, and sheep milk) due to a lack of awareness of its nutritional composition and the significance of its different byproducts. This review provides a detailed explanation of the various macronutrients that may be present, with special attention paid to each component, its purpose, and the health benefits it offers. It also compares goat milk with milk from other species in terms of its superiority and nutritional content, as well as the types, production methods, health advantages, and other beneficial properties of the various goat milk products that are currently available on the market.

Antioxidative potential of Lactobacillus sp. in ameliorating D-galactose-induced aging

Aging is a progressive, unalterable physiological degradation process of living organisms, which leads to deterioration of biological function and eventually to senescence. The most prevalent factor responsible for aging is the accumulation of damages resulting from oxidative stress and dysbiosis. D-galactose-induced aging has become a hot topic, and extensive research is being conducted in this area. Published literature has reported that the continuous administration of D-galactose leads to the deterioration of motor and cognitive skills, resembling symptoms of aging. Hence, this procedure is employed as a model for accelerated aging. This review aims to emphasize the effect of D-galactose on various bodily organs and underline the role of the Lactobacillus sp. in the aging process, along with its anti-oxidative potential. A critical consideration to the literature describing animal models that have used the Lactobacillus sp. in amending D-galactose-induced aging is also given. KEY POINTS: • D-Galactose induces the aging process via decreasing the respiratory chain enzyme activity as well as ATP synthesis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and increased ROS production. • D-Galactose induced aging primarily affects the brain, heart, lung, liver, kidney, and skin. • The anti-oxidative potential of Lactobacillus sp. in improving D-galactose-induced aging in animal models via direct feeding and feeding of Lactobacillus-fermented food.

Bacteroides fragilis Supplementation Deteriorated Metabolic Dysfunction, Inflammation, and Aorta Atherosclerosis by Inducing Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in Animal Model

Background: The gut microbial ecosystem is an important factor that regulates host health and the onset of chronic diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes mellitus, which are important risk factors for atherosclerosis. However, the links among diet, microbiota composition, and atherosclerotic progression are unclear. Methods and results: Four-week-old mice (^-/- mice, C57Bl/6) were randomly divided into two groups, namely, supplementation with culture medium (control, CTR) and Bacteroides fragilis (BFS), and were fed a high-fat diet. The gut microbiota abundance in feces was evaluated using the 16S rDNA cloning library construction, sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis. The atherosclerotic lesion was estimated using Oil Red O staining. Levels of CD36, a scavenger receptor implicated in atherosclerosis, and F4/80, a macrophage marker in small intestine, were quantified by quantitative real-time PCR. Compared with the CTR group, the BFS group showed increased food intake, fasting blood glucose level, body weight, low-density lipoprotein level, and aortic atherosclerotic lesions. BFS dramatically reduced Lactobacillaceae (LAC) abundance and increased Desulfovibrionaceae (DSV) abundance. The mRNA expression levels of CD36 and F4/80 in small intestine and aorta tissue in the BFS group were significantly higher than those in the CTR group. Conclusions: gut microbiota dysbiosis was induced by BFS. It was characterized by reduced LAC and increased DSV abundance and led to the deterioration of glucose/lipid metabolic dysfunction and inflammatory response, which likely promoted aorta plaque formation and the progression of atherosclerosis.

Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Peptides Derived from Food Proteins

Recently, the demand for food proteins in the market has increased due to a rise in degenerative illnesses that are associated with the excessive production of free radicals and the unwanted side effects of various drugs, for which researchers have suggested diets rich in bioactive compounds. Some of the functional compounds present in foods are antioxidant and antimicrobial peptides, which are used to produce foods that promote health and to reduce the consumption of antibiotics. These peptides have been obtained from various sources of proteins, such as foods and agri-food by-products, via enzymatic hydrolysis and microbial fermentation. Peptides with antioxidant properties exert effective metal ion (Fe2+/Cu2+) chelating activity and lipid peroxidation inhibition, which may lead to notably beneficial effects in promoting human health and food processing. Antimicrobial peptides are small oligo-peptides generally containing from 10 to 100 amino acids, with a net positive charge and an amphipathic structure; they are the most important components of the antibacterial defense of organisms at almost all levels of life-bacteria, fungi, plants, amphibians, insects, birds and mammals-and have been suggested as natural compounds that neutralize the toxicity of reactive oxygen species generated by antibiotics and the stress generated by various exogenous sources. This review discusses what antioxidant and antimicrobial peptides are, their source, production, some bioinformatics tools used for their obtainment, emerging technologies, and health benefits.

Oxidative Stress in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a challenging disease caused by multiple factors, which may partly explain why it still remains an orphan of adequate therapies. This review highlights the interaction between oxidative stress (OS) and disturbed lipid metabolism. Several reactive oxygen species generators, including those produced in the gastrointestinal tract, contribute to the lipotoxic hepatic (and extrahepatic) damage by fatty acids and a great variety of their biologically active metabolites in a “multiple parallel-hit model”. This leads to inflammation and fibrogenesis and contributes to NAFLD progression. The alterations of the oxidant/antioxidant balance affect also metabolism-related organelles, leading to lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. This OS-induced damage is at least partially counteracted by the physiological antioxidant response. Therefore, modulation of this defense system emerges as an interesting target to prevent NAFLD development and progression. For instance, probiotics, prebiotics, diet, and fecal microbiota transplantation represent new therapeutic approaches targeting the gut microbiota dysbiosis. The OS and its counter-regulation are under the influence of individual genetic and epigenetic factors as well. In the near future, precision medicine taking into consideration genetic or environmental epigenetic risk factors, coupled with new OS biomarkers, will likely assist in noninvasive diagnosis and monitoring of NAFLD progression and in further personalizing treatments.

Dietary Probiotic Pediococcus acidilactici MA18/5M Improves the Growth, Feed Performance and Antioxidant Status of Penaeid Shrimp Litopenaeus stylirostris: A Growth-Ration-Size Approach

Simple Summary

Probiotics are increasingly documented to confer health and performance benefits across farmed animals. The study assessed the effect of dietary supplementation with the single-strain probiotic Pedicococcus acidilactici MA18/5M on the growth, nutritional indices, and metabolic status of the adult western blue shrimp, Litopenaeus stylirostris. The aim was to estimate its potential at optimizing the performance of the penaeid feed and shrimp farming industry. Supplementation with P. acidilactici MA18/5M improved the feed conversion efficiency and daily growth rate across fixed ration sizes; and decreased both the maintenance and optimal ration size for growth. This appeared linked to a better use of dietary carbohydrates as shown by a higher α-amylase activity, free-glucose and glycogen concentration in the digestive gland. Interestingly, P. acidilactici intake was also associated with a higher antioxidant status which may be linked to enhanced carbohydrates utilization. Using a fixed ration size approach under controlled laboratory conditions, the study documented a clear potential for P. acidilactici MA18/5M to enhance the growth, feed efficiency and metabolic health of adult penaeid shrimp during on-growing. These findings raise interesting prospects to optimize penaeid feed formulation and the performance of the shrimp-farming industry.

Abstract

Probiotics are increasingly documented to confer health and performance benefits across farmed animals. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a constant daily intake of the single-strain probiotic Pedicococcus acidilactici MA18/5M (4 × 10⁸ CFU.day⁻¹.kg⁻¹ shrimp) fed over fixed, restricted ration sizes (1% to 6% biomass.day⁻¹) on the nutritional performance and metabolism of adult penaeid shrimp Litopenaeus stylirostris (initial body-weight, BWi = 10.9 ± 1.8 g). The probiotic significantly increased the relative daily growth rate (RGR) across all ration size s tested (Mean-RGR of 0.45 ± 0.08 and 0.61 ± 0.07% BWi.day⁻¹ for the control and probiotic groups, respectively) and decreased the maintenance ration (Rm) and the optimal ration (Ropt) by 18.6% and 11.3%, respectively. Accordingly, the probiotic group exhibited a significantly higher gross (K1) and net (K2) feed conversion efficiency with average improvement of 35% and 30%, respectively. Enhanced nutritional performances in shrimps that were fed the probiotic P. acidilactici was associated with, in particular, significantly higher α-amylase specific activity (+24.8 ± 5.5% across ration sizes) and a concentration of free-glucose and glycogen in the digestive gland at fixed ration sizes of 3% and below. This suggests that the probiotic effect might reside in a better use of dietary carbohydrates. Interestingly, P. acidilactici intake was also associated with a statistically enhanced total antioxidant status of the digestive gland and haemolymph (+24.4 ± 7.8% and +21.9 ± 8.5%, respectively; p < 0.05). As supported by knowledge in other species, enhanced carbohydrate utilization as a result of P. acidilactici intake may fuel the pentose-phosphate pathway, generating NADPH or directly enhancing OH-radicals scavenging by free glucose, in turn resulting in a decreased level of cellular oxidative stress. In conclusion, the growth-ration method documented a clear contribution of P. acidilactici MA18/5M on growth and feed efficiency of on-growing L. stylirostris that were fed fixed restricted rations under ideal laboratory conditions. The effect of the probiotic on α-amylase activity and carbohydrate metabolism and its link to the shrimp’s antioxidant status raises interesting prospects to optimize dietary formulations and helping to sustain the biological and economic efficiency of the penaeid shrimp-farming industry.

Role of fermented goat milk as a nutritional product to improve anemia

Goat milk, like cow milk, needs some modifications to be used as the sole source of nutrition during early infancy. For goat milk to be more like human milk and more nutritionally complete, sugar, vitamins and minerals need to be added to it and for reduction of renal solute load, it needs to be diluted. To prevent megaloblastic anemia in infants fed exclusively on goat milk, folic acid should be supplied either by adding it to goat milk or by an oral folic acid supplement. In fortification of milk products, thermal processing, fermentation, and species differences in milk folate bioavailability are three additional factors that should be considered besides absolute difference in folate concentration between goat and human milk. Whether different feeding regimes (e.g., iron and folate content of diets) influence milk folate content needs to be elucidated by more research. Our findings showed that fermented goat milk during anemia recovery can be improve antioxidant status, protection from oxidative damage to biomolecules, protective effects on testis, improve Fe and skeletal muscle homeostasis as well as improve cardiovascular health. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: To be used as part of a postweaning nutritionally well-balanced diet, fermented goat milk is most likely an excellent source of nutrition for the human.

Antioxidant activity of Lactobacillus plantarum NJAU-01 in an animal model of aging

BACKGROUND

Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause serious damage to the human body and may cause various chronic diseases. Studies have found that lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have antioxidant and anti-aging effects, and are important resources for the development of microbial antioxidants. This paper was to explore the potential role of an antioxidant strain, Lactobacillus plantarum NJAU-01 screened from traditional dry-cured meat product Jinhua Ham in regulating D-galactose-induced subacute senescence of mice. A total of 48 specific pathogen free Kun Ming mice (SPF KM mice) were randomly allocated into 6 groups: control group with sterile saline injection, aging group with subcutaneously injection of D-galactose, treatments groups with injection of D-galactose and intragastric administration of 107, 108, and 109 CFU/mL L. plantarum NJAU-01, and positive control group with injection of D-galactose and intragastric administration of 1 mg/mL Vitamin C.

RESULTS

The results showed that the treatment group of L. plantarum NJAU-01 at 109 CFU/mL showed higher total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and the antioxidant enzymatic activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) than those of the other groups in serum, heart and liver. In contrast, the content of the oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA) showed lower levels than the other groups (P < 0.05). The antioxidant capacity was improved with the supplement of the increasing concentration of L. plantarum NJAU-01.

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, this study demonstrates that L. plantarum NJAU-01 can alleviate oxidative stress by increasing the activities of enzymes involved in oxidation resistance and decreasing level of lipid oxidation in mice.

Vitamin E and Lactobacillus Provide Protective Effects Against Liver Injury Induced by HgCl2: Role of CHOP, GPR87, and mTOR Proteins

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Mercury is one of the most harmful heavy metals and its toxicity causes severe multi-organ dysfunction. This study was designed to explore novel molecular pathways involved in the hepatoprotective effect of vitamin E (Vit-E) and Lactobacillius plantarum (Lac-B) against mercury toxicity.

METHOD

Acute hepatotoxicity was induced by administration of high dose of mercuric chloride (HgCl2) in male rats, Vit-E or/and Lac-B were given along with HgCl2 for 2 weeks. The effects of those antioxidants were studied focusing on their anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory eficacies. Histopathological examinations were also conducted.

RESULTS

The administration of HgCl2 induced liver injury which manifested by elevation in serum ALT and AST. Liver MDA, caspase-3 and TNF-α levels were markedly increased; whereas, GSH level and SOD activity were declined. HgCl2 significantly elevated the expressions of hepatic CHOP, GPR87, NF-κB and mTOR. Histopathological examination revealed massive hepatocyte degeneration following HgCl2 administration. Treatment with Vit-E or/and Lac-B restored the normal levels of the previously mentioned parameters, as well as improved hepatic architecture.

CONCLUSION

Vit-E and Lac-B provided protective effect against HgCl2-induced hepatotoxicity via reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation, and downregulation of CHOP, GPR87, NF-κB and mTOR proteins' expressions.

A randomised placebo controlled trial of VSL#3® probiotic on biomarkers of cardiovascular risk and liver injury in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with increased cardiovascular risk irrespective of conventional risk factors. The role of gut-liver interaction is implicated in its development. We investigated the effects of VSL#3^® probiotic supplementation on biomarkers of cardiovascular risk and liver injury in patients with NAFLD.

METHODS

A randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, proof-of-concept study was undertaken. Patients with NAFLD were randomly allocated to take 2 sachets VSL#3^® probiotic or placebo twice daily for 10 weeks. Measurements of endothelial function (digital photoplethysmography, sVCAM-1 and cGMP), oxidative stress (glutathione ratio and LHP), inflammation (hsCRP), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and liver injury [transaminases, fibrosis risk score and acoustic structure quantification (ASQ)] were undertaken before and after intervention. Difference in baseline characteristics between the treatment groups was analysed using independent t-test or Mann Whitney U test for non-parametric data. Independent t-test was used to compare the outcomes at the end of the study between the two treatment groups. Wilcoxon Signed Rank test was used to determine the difference in fibrosis risk scores before and after treatment. Spearman's correlation was used to determine any association between cardiovascular and hepatic markers at baseline.

RESULTS

Thirty-five patients completed the study (28 males and 7 females) with a mean age of 57 ± 8 years, body mass index of 32.6 ± 5.0 kg/m² and a relatively short duration of NAFLD (median duration 0.3 IQR 2.0 years). No significant difference was observed in biomarkers of cardiovascular risk and liver injury following VSL#3^® supplementation. Significant correlations were noted between sVCAM-1 and hsCRP (rho = 0.392, p = 0.01), and HOMA-IR and AST (rho = 0.489, p < 0.01) at baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to evaluate the effect of VSL#3^® on ASQ in patients with NAFLD. VSL#3^® did not significantly improve markers of cardiovascular risk and liver injury in patients with NAFLD. However, the study supports an association between endothelial dysfunction and inflammation in patients with NAFLD and suggests that NAFLD is linked with insulin resistance.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN05474560 ( https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN05474560 ) Registered 9 August 2012 (retrospectively registered).

Assessment of exopolysaccharides, bacteriocins and in vitro and in vivo hypocholesterolemic potential of some Egyptian Lactobacillus spp

Lactobacilli probiotics have been suggested to reduce cholesterol with low side effects to host. Bacteriocins and exopolysaccharides (EPSs) production are two meaningful examples of functional applications of lactobacilli in the food industry. Eight Lactobacillus strains were isolated from some Egyptian fermented food and tested for their probiotic properties. Analysis of the monosaccharide composition by thin layer chromatography showed the presence of glucose, galactose and unknown sugar. The main functional groups of EPSs were elucidated by Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Their fermentation cultures displayed powerful antioxidant activities extending from 97.5 to 99%, 40-75% for their EPSs and free cells, respectively, and exhibited in vitro cholesterol downgrading from 48 to 82% and 72 to 91% after 48 and 120 h, respectively. Their EPSs showed good anticancer activities against carcinoma cells with low IC₅₀ values for HCT-116, PC-3 and HepG-2 cells. To the best of our knowledge, there have been no previous reports on the potential of Lactobacillus EPSs activity against PC-3. The selected strains, L. plantarum KU985433 and L. rhamnosus KU985436 produced two different bacteriocins as detected by gel permeation chromatography with good antimicrobial activities. In vivo study demonstrated that feeding Westar rats with fermented milk exhibited greater cholesterol, LDL and blood triglyceride reduction for both strains. Whereas, HDL was increased by about 43 and 38%, respectively, and the atherogenic indices decreased.

Daily consumption effects of probiotic yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus La5 and Bifidobacterium lactis Bb12 on oxidative stress in metabolic syndrome patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Available evidence substantiates a strong association between metabolic syndrome and elevated oxidative stress. This study was aimed to assess the effects of probiotic yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus La5 and Bifidobacterium lactis Bb12 on the oxidative stress biomarkers in patients with metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, the association between uric acid levels and insulin resistance indexes was assessed.

METHODS

An 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel study was designed. Forty-four patients, 22 males and 22 females aged 20-65 years, were assigned into two groups. Treatment (n = 22) and control (n = 22) groups consumed 300 g/d of probiotic and regular yogurt, respectively. The serum concentration of uric acid, oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein (oxLDL), Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) were measured at the beginning and the end of the trial. This study was recorded at http://www.irct.ir (code: IRCT201608213140N17).

RESULTS

Probiotic yogurt consumption resulted in a significant decrease in the level of serum uric acid and a significant increase in the level of TAC (p < 0.05). A positive significant association between uric acid with insulin concentration and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and an inverse significant relationship with insulin sensitivity (Quicki) were also found (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Probiotic yogurt consumption through improvement in insulin sensitivity may exert positive effects on the oxidative stress and uric acid levels. However, further studies are needed to make concise conclusions.

Comparison of probiotic yogurt and ordinary yogurt consumption on serum Pentraxin3, NT-proBNP, oxLDL, and ApoB100 in patients with chronic heart failure: a randomized, triple-blind, controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Nowadays, the potential beneficial effects of probiotic yogurt as a functional food has raised much interest. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the probiotic yogurt and ordinary yogurt consumption on some indices in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF).

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this randomized, triple-blind clinical trial, 90 patients with CHF were randomly allocated into two groups to take either probiotic yogurt or ordinary yogurt for 10 weeks. The serum levels of pentraxin3 (PTX3), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL), and apolipoprotein B100 (ApoB100) were measured at the baseline and at the end of week 10. P-Value <0.05 was defined as statistically significant. Final analyses were performed on 78 patients. The levels of PTX3 and oxLDL in both the groups decreased significantly after 10 weeks, and these reductions were greater in the probiotic group, where the difference between the groups was statistically significant for oxLDL (P-value: 0.051, adjusted P-value: 0.010) but not significant for PTX3 (P-value: 0.956, adjusted P-value: 0.236). The changes in the serum NT-proBNP levels were not statistically significant between the groups (P-value: 0.948, adjusted P-value: 0.306). ApoB100 significantly decreased in the control group compared to the probiotic group and the difference between the groups was significant at first but was not significant after adjusting for the confounders (P-value: 0.004, adjusted P-value: 0.280).

CONCLUSION

The serum oxLDL significantly reduced due to probiotic yogurt consumption after 10 weeks compared to ordinary yogurt; thus, it may be useful for improving the oxidative status of CHF patients. The clinical trial registry number is IRCT20091114002709N48 (https://www.irct.ir/IRCT20091114002709N48, registered 12 March 2018).

Oxidative stress tolerance and antioxidant capacity of lactic acid bacteria as probiotic: a systematic review

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are the most frequently used probiotics in fermented foods and beverages and as food supplements for humans or animals, owing to their multiple beneficial features, which appear to be partially associated with their antioxidant properties. LAB can help improve food quality and flavor and prevent numerous disorders caused by oxidation in the host. In this review, we discuss the oxidative stress tolerance, the antioxidant capacity related herewith, and the underlying mechanisms and signaling pathways in probiotic LAB. In addition, we discuss appropriate methods used to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of probiotic LAB. The aim of the present review is to provide an overview of the current state of the research associated with the oxidative stress tolerance and antioxidant capacity of LAB.

Effects of maternal 25-hydroxycholecalciferol during the last week of gestation and lactation on serum parameters, intestinal morphology and microbiota in suckling piglets

This study was conducted to test the effects of maternal 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25OHD₃) supplementation on serum parameters, intestinal morphology and microbiota in suckling piglets. The experiment started on day 107 of gestation and lasted until piglets were weaned on day 21 of lactation. Thirty-two sows were allocated randomly to two treatments (ND diet, basal diet with 2000 IU/kg of vitamin D₃; 25-D diet, basal diet with 50 μg/kg 25OHD₃). Results showed that maternal 25-D treatment increased (p < 0.05) serum 25OHD₃ concentration in the umbilical cords, which led to higher (p < 0.05) serum 25OHD₃ concentration of suckling piglets from 25-D sows. The GSH-Px activity in colostrum was higher (p < 0.05), as well as SOD and GSH-Px activities in milk, were higher (p < 0.05) in 25-D sows than ND sows. Compared with piglets suckling ND sows, piglets suckling 25-D sows had higher (p < 0.05) serum SOD activity on day 7, 14 and 21 of lactation. On day 21 of lactation, piglets form 25-D sows had greater (p < 0.05) serum levels of GH and IGF-I and lower (p < 0.05) serum DAO activity than those from ND sows. Piglets from 25-D sows had higher (p < 0.05) jejunal villus height than those from ND sows. Feeding 25OHD₃ to sows tended to increase (p < 0.10) the species richness in the colonic digesta of suckling piglets, as reflected by the α-diversity index of Chao-1. In the caecal digesta, the α-diversity for bacterial community analysis of Simpson and Shannon was lower (p < 0.05) in 25-D piglets than ND piglets. The relative abundances of colonic Alloprevotella and caecal Lactobacillus were significantly higher, while the population of caecal [Eubacterium]_coprostanoligenes_group was lower (p < 0.05) in 25-D piglets than ND piglets. In conclusion, maternal 25OHD₃ supplementation partly improved antioxidant status in sows and suckling piglets and altered gut microbiota in the hindgut of piglets.

The effects of probiotic/synbiotic supplementation compared to placebo on biomarkers of oxidative stress in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

During the last decades, there has been a burst of scientific literature hypothesizing the antioxidant effect of probiotics. However, the results of these studies are inconsistent and a final conclusion has yet to be reached. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the effects of probiotic/synbiotic supplementation on serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels in adults.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The following online databases were searched until August 26th 2020: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Clarivate Analytics Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Science Direct, Google Scholar and Igaku Chuo Zasshi. The effect sizes were expressed as the weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). A total of 31 eligible trials with 1681 participants (839 cases and 842 controls) were included in this meta-analysis. The results revealed that the supplementation with probiotics/synbiotics, significantly increased serum TAC (WMD: 54.14 mmol/L, 95% CI: 27.87, 80.40, P < 0.001), GSH (WMD: 40.38 μmol/L, 95% CI: 20.72, 60.03, P < 0.001) and NO (WMD: 3.54 μmol/L, 95% CI: 1.73, 5.34, P < 0.001) levels. In addition, MDA levels were significantly reduced (WMD: -0.45 μmol/L, 95% CI: -0.58,-0.32, P < 0.001) following probiotic/synbiotic supplementation. None of the variables showed a significant change in the sensitivity analysis.

CONCLUSION

Available evidence suggests that probiotic/synbiotic supplementation can significantly increase serum TAC, GSH and NO, as well as reduce MDA levels in adults. Therefore, probiotic/synbiotic supplementation may play a role in improving antioxidant indices and reducing oxidative stress in the body.

The Role of Probiotics in the Amelioration of Cadmium Toxicity

Cadmium is extremely toxic heavy metal, and there is no specific, safe, and efficacious therapeutic management of cadmium toxicity. Scientific literature reveals several probiotic microorganisms which alleviate experimentally induced cadmium toxicity in animals. The present review attempts to collate the experimental studies on probiotics and probiotic-derived natural products with cadmium toxicity ameliorative effects. Literature survey revealed that seven (7) types of probiotic microorganisms exhibited significant protection from cadmium toxicity in experimental pre-clinical studies. Clinical study with significant outcome was not found in literature. From the outcomes of the pre-clinical studies, it appears that probiotics have the prospect for alleviation and treatment of cadmium toxicity.

Lactobacillus fermentum JX306 Restrain D-galactose-induced Oxidative Stress of Mice through its Antioxidant Activity

Oxidative stress-induced series of related degenerative diseases have received widespread attention. To screen new lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains to resist oxidative stress, traditional Chinese fermented vegetables were used as a resource library to screen of LAB. The Lactobacillus fermentum JX306 strain, which showed high scavenging activity of DPPH free radical and hydrogen radical, and a strong lipid peroxidation inhibition rate in vitro was selected. L. fermentum JX306 was also examined for its antioxidant capacity in D-galactose-induced aging mice. The results showed that L. fermentum JX306 could significantly decrease malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and improve the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and total antioxygenic capacity (TOC) in the serum, kidney, and liver. Meanwhile, the strain could remarkably upregulate the transcriptional level of the antioxidant-related enzyme genes, such as peroxiredoxin1 (Prdx1), glutathione reductase (Gsr), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx1), and thioredoxin reductase (TR3) encoding genes in the liver. Besides, histopathological observation proves that this probiotic strain could effectively inhibit oxidative damage to the liver and kidney in aging mice. Therefore, this unique antioxidant strain may have a high application value in the functional food industry and medicine industry.

Role of α-tocopherol and Lactobacillus plantarum in the alleviation of mercuric chloride-induced testicular atrophy in rat's model: Implication of molecular mechanisms

The present work was aimed to evaluate the protective effects of alpha-tocopherol (α-toco) and/or Lactobacillus plantarum (LCB) against testicular atrophy induced by mercuric chloride (MCH). Rats were injected with 5 mg/kg MCH for 5 days consecutively, then treated with 100 mg/kg α-toco and 6 × 10¹⁰ CFU 1.8701/kg LCB alone or together for 3 weeks. The MCH elevated serum TNF-α, IL- 6, caspase-3, and testicular malondialdehyde. However, serum testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, testicular messenger RNA of a steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, 17-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, glutathione level, and superoxide dismutase activity were decreased. Protein expression of Nrf2 was downregulated whereas that of Bax and DNA fragmentation was upregulated in the testicular tissues. Treatment with α-toco and LCB ameliorated the deviated biochemical parameters and improved tissue injury. It was concluded that the combination of LCB and α-toco achieved promising results in the amelioration of MCH-induced testicular atrophy. Nrf2, Bax expressions, and DNA fragmentation are involved in the testicular atrophy induced by MCH.

Modulatory Effect of the Intracellular Content of Lactobacillus casei CRL 431 Against the Aflatoxin B1-Induced Oxidative Stress in Rats

It has been recognized that lactic acid bacteria exhibit antioxidant properties, which have been mainly endorsed to the intact viable bacteria. However, recent studies have shown that intracellular content (IC) may also be good sources of antioxidative metabolites, which may potentially contribute to oxidative homeostasis in vivo. Hence, the modulatory effect of the intracellular content of Lactobacillus casei CRL 431 (IC431) on aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁)-induced oxidative stress in rats was evaluated on the basis of its influence on hepatic lipid peroxidation (LPO), antioxidant status-antioxidant capacity (TAC), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities; and on the oxidative stress index (OSi). Results demonstrated that CAT and GPx activities, and TAC, determined in plasma samples, were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in rats treated with AFB₁ plus IC431 (3.98 μM/min/mg protein, 1.88 μM/min/mg protein, and 238.7 μM Trolox equivalent, respectively) than AFB₁-treated rats (3.47 μM/min/mg protein, 1.46 μM/min/mg protein, and 179.7 μM Trolox equivalent, respectively). Furthermore, plasma and liver tissue samples from rats treated with AFB₁ plus IC431 showed significantly (P < 0.05) lower LPO values (52 and 51%, respectively) and OSi (59 and 51%, respectively) than AFB₁-treated rats. Hence, our results proved that the intracellular content of Lact. casei CRL 431 contains metabolites that are capable to modulate the antioxidant defense systems in living organism, which may help to ameliorate the damage associated to AFB₁-induced oxidative stress.

The Impacts of Synbiotic Supplementation on Periodontal Indices and Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients with Chronic Periodontitis Under Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy. A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

AIM

The aim of the current study was to investigate that combination of the synbiotic supplementation in adjunct with non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) is useful in treating periodontitis and biomarkers of oxidative stress in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

METHODS

In this study, 47 patients suffering from DM and CP were recruited and randomly assigned to two groups. The intervention (n= 23) and control (n=24) groups received either multispecies probiotic supplement plus 100 mg fructo-oligosaccharide (500 mg in each capsule) or placebo capsule containing 500 mg wheat flour, respectively, every day for 8 weeks. All subjects were treated with NSPT during the intervention period. Serum levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and periodontal indices including clinical attachment loss (CAL), pocket depth (PD) (main outcome), BOP, and plaque index were measured before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

Supplementation with the synbiotic with NSPT led to a significant decrease in the levels of IL-1β, MDA, plaque index, PD, and CAL in the intervention group post-intervention (p < 0.05). The serum levels of TAC, SOD, and GPx were significantly increased in the intervention group compared with the baseline (p < 0.05). Consumption of synbiotic with NSPT, compared to the control, resulted in a significant decrease in the mean changes of IL-1β, MDA, and CAL (p < 0.05). Also, the mean changes of TAC and GPx were significantly higher in the intervention group compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Also, in the intervention group was seen a significant reduction in plaque index (p = 0.035) and BOP (p = 0.04) compared with the control group.

CONCLUSION

It was observed that synbiotic supplementation with NSPT may be beneficial in improving inflammatory, antioxidant, and periodontal status in T2DM patients with CP.

Goat milk attenuates mimetic aging related memory impairment via suppressing brain oxidative stress, neurodegeneration and modulating neurotrophic factors in D-galactose-induced aging model

One of the most significant hallmarks of aging is cognitive decline. D-galactose administration may impair memory and mimic the effects of natural aging. In this study, the efficiency of goat milk to protect against memory decline was tested. Fifty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: (i) control group, (ii) goat milk treated group, (iii) D-galactose treated group, and (iv) goat milk plus D-galactose treated group. Subcutaneous injections of D-galactose at 120 mg/kg and oral administrations of goat milk at 1 g/kg were chosen for the study. Goat milk and D-galactose were administered concomitantly for 6 weeks, while the control group received saline. After 6 weeks, novel object recognition and T-maze tests were performed to evaluate memory of rats. Following behavioral tests, the animals were sacrificed, and right brain homogenates were analyzed for levels of lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzymes and neurotrophic factors. The left brain hemisphere was used for histological study of prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. There was a significant memory impairment, an increase in oxidative stress and neurodegeneration and a reduction in antioxidant enzymes and neurotrophic factors levels in the brain of D-galactose treated rats compared to controls. Goat milk treatment attenuated memory impairment induced by D-galactose via suppressing oxidative stress and neuronal damage and increasing neurotrophic factors levels, thereby suggesting its potential role as a geroprotective food.

Probiotics against alleviation of lead toxicity: recent advances

Lead is a toxic heavy metal and there is no specific, safe and efficacious therapeutic management of lead toxicity. Scientific literature reported that some probiotic microorganisms alleviated experimentally induced lead toxicity. The present review attempts to collate the experimental studies on probiotics with ameliorative effects. Literature survey revealed that four (4) types of probiotic microorganisms exhibited significant protection from lead toxicity in experimental pre-clinical studies. No clinical study with significant outcome was found in the literature. From the outcomes of the preclinical studies it appears that probiotics are prospective for alleviation and treatment of lead toxicity.

The Effects of Mold-Fermented Cheese on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Community-Dwelling Older Japanese Women With Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized, Controlled, Crossover Trial

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effects of mold-fermented cheese (MFC) on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in community-dwelling older Japanese women with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

DESIGN

Randomized controlled crossover trial.

INTERVENTION

Participants were randomly assigned to 2 groups. The MFC group was provided with 33.4 g MFC (camembert cheese) daily for 3 months, and the non-MFC group was provided with the same amount of non-MFC (processed cheese made from mozzarella cheese and cream cheese) for 3 months. After the post-intervention analysis (primary analysis), there was a 3-month washout period, followed by a crossover period (secondary analysis).

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Urban community in Tokyo, Japan. A total of 71 older women aged ≥70 years with MCI based on selected criteria in 689 community-dwelling women.

MEASURES

Face-to-face interviews were conducted to administer the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and collect data on medical history. Physical function measures included grip strength, knee extension strength, and usual walking speed. Blood samples were obtained to determine the levels of albumin, vitamin D, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and BDNF.

RESULTS

Significant interactions were observed in BDNF after intervention of MFC intake in the secondary (F = 5.368, P = .024) and combined analyses (F = 4.354, P = .039) but not the primary analysis. There were no significant changes in the 3 categories of MMSE score (normal, MCI, moderate or severe cognitive impairment), GDS score, physical function, and blood indicators.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Three months of MFC ingestion had beneficial effects on BDNF levels in community-dwelling older women with MCI; however, the BDNF increases did not translate into MMSE scores. Further study into the effects of interventions on cognitive function and depression in older people with MCI is necessary.

Probiotics in Goat Milk Products: Delivery Capacity and Ability to Improve Sensory Attributes

Dairy foods, particularly those of bovine origin, are the predominant vehicles for delivery of probiotic bacteria. Caprine (goat) milk also possesses potential for successful delivery of probiotics, and despite its less appealing flavor in some products, the use of goat milk as a probiotic carrier has rapidly increased over the last decade. This review reports on the diversity, applicability, and potential of using probiotics to enhance the sensory properties of goat milk and goat milk-based products. A brief conceptual introduction to probiotic microorganisms is followed by an account of the unique physicochemical, nutritive, and beneficial aspects of goat milk, emphasizing its advantages as a probiotic carrier. The sensory properties of probiotic-enriched goat milk products are also discussed. The maintenance of probiotic viability and desirable physicochemical characteristics in goat milk products over shelf life is possible. However, the unpleasant sensory features of some goat milk products remain a major disadvantage that hinder its wider utilization. Nevertheless, certain measures such as fortification with selected probiotic strains, inclusion of fruit pulps and popular flavor compounds, and production of commonly consumed tailor-made goat milk-based products have potential to overcome this limitation. In particular, certain probiotic bacteria release volatile compounds as a result of their metabolism, which are known to play a major role in the aroma profile and sensory aspects of the final products.

Effects of Dietary Taurine Supplementation to Gilts during Late Gestation and Lactation on Offspring Growth and Oxidative Stress

Simple Summary

Previous studies showed that gilts had elevated oxidative stress during late gestation and lactation, and could affect offspring growth. Taurine (Tau) is an important regulator of oxidative stress and possesses growth-enhancing properties. Our results suggested that taurine supplementation during late gestation and lactation of gilts increased growth performance in piglets through improved milk quality of gilts and intestinal morphology and barrier function of offspring.

Abstract

Birth is one of the most important events of animal production agriculture, as newborns are abruptly forced to adapt to environmental and nutritional disruptions that can lead to oxidative damage and delay in growth. Taurine (Tau) is an important regulator of oxidative stress and possesses growth-enhancing properties. In the present study, we investigated the effects of dietary Tau supplementation in gilts during late gestation and lactation on the growth performance of piglets by assessing intestinal morphology and barrier function, and oxidative stress status. Sixteen gilts were randomly allocated to the Con (basal diet) and Tau (basal diet with 1% Tau) groups from 75 d of gestation to weaning. Maternal dietary Tau supplementation significantly increased weaning weight and average daily gain weight in piglets. Piglets in the Tau group had higher villus height and villus height-to-crypt depth ratio (VCR), ZO-1 protein expression, and secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) content in the jejunum. Meanwhile, Tau bebeficial affected the milk quality of gilts, as indicated by decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and increased total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), total antioxidative capability (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) activity. Furthermore, Tau supplementation increased T-SOD activity in plasma and SOD2 protein expression in the jejunum in the piglets. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that dietary Tau supplementation to gilts improves growth performance in piglets, owing to improved intestinal morphology and barrier function, as well as inhibition of oxidative stress.

Oral Administration of Lactobacillus delbrueckii during the Suckling Phase Improves Antioxidant Activities and Immune Responses after the Weaning Event in a Piglet Model

Early colonization in the gut by probiotics influences the progressive development and maturity of antioxidant and immune system functionality in the future. This study investigated the impact of orally administrated Lactobacillus delbrueckii (LAB) during the suckling phase on future antioxidant and immune responses of the host, using a piglet model. One hundred neonatal piglets received saline (CON) or LAB at the amounts of 1, 2, 3, and 4 mL at 1, 3, 7, and 14 d of age, respectively. The piglets were weaned at the age of 21 d and fed until the age of 49 d. Serum, liver, and intestinal samples were obtained at 21, 28, and 49 d of age. The results showed that LAB tended to decrease serum 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine concentration and decreased the concentration of serum and hepatic malondialdehyde, but increased the activity of hepatic glutathione peroxidase on days 21, 28, and 49. The concentrations of secretory immunoglobulin A and some inflammatory cytokines and chemokines were increased (P < 0.05) in the intestinal mucosa of LAB-treated piglets on days 21, 28, and 49 compared to that of CON piglets. Likewise, protein expression of cyclooxygenase 2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase in the intestine of LAB-treated piglets was increased (P < 0.05) during the whole period. These results indicate that administration of LAB to the suckling piglet could improve antioxidant capacity and stimulate intestinal immune response, and these long-lasting effects are also observed up to 4 weeks after weaning. A proper utilization of LAB to neonates would be beneficial to human and animal's future health.

Effects of probiotics and synbiotic supplementation on antioxidant status: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Oxidative stress implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases. Anti-oxidative characteristics of probiotics reported previously. Thus, we aimed to critically investigate the effectiveness of probiotics and synbiotics supplementation on antioxidant biomarkers.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of Scopus and Medline was performed up to November 2017. All randomized controlled trials (RCT) which evaluate the effect of probiotics or synbiotics on superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glutathione (GSH) levels were included. Weighted mean difference (WMD) were pooled using random effect model.

RESULTS

Sixteen eligible RCTs with 915 participants were included in present study. Findings showed that probiotics could significantly increase GSH level compared to the control groups ((WMD): 132.36, 95% CI: 27.76, 236.95, P = 0.01). Because of considerable heterogeneity among included the studies, subgroup analyses were conducted. Subgroup analysis revealed that GSH level significantly increased in non-diabetic individuals; the effect size was not significant in diabetic patients. Furthermore, probiotics and synbiotics showed no significant effect on TAC level (WMD: 0.04, 95% CI: -0.07, 0.15, P: 0.50) and SOD activity (WMD: 0.04, 95% CI: -0.06, 0.13, P = 0.43).

CONCLUSION

Probiotics and synbiotics supplementation improve GSH as a biomarkers of antioxidant status in the body. However, additional studies needed for concluding about TAC and SOD activity.

The Effects of Synbiotic Supplementation on Pregnancy Outcomes in Gestational Diabetes

Synbiotics are known to exert multiple beneficial effects, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidative actions. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of synbiotic administration on biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and pregnancy outcomes among gestational diabetic (GDM) women. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was carried out among 60 subjects with GDM who were not on oral hypoglycemic agents. Patients were randomly assigned to consume either one synbiotic capsule containing Lactobacillus acidophilus strain T16 (IBRC-M10785), L. casei strain T2 (IBRC-M10783), and Bifidobacterium bifidum strain T1 (IBRC-M10771) (2 × 10⁹ CFU/g each) plus 800 mg inulin (HPX) (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 6 weeks. Compared with the placebo, synbiotic supplementation significantly decreased serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (- 1.9 ± 4.2 vs. +1.1 ± 3.5 mg/L, P = 0.004), plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) (- 0.1 ± 0.6 vs. + 0.3 ± 0.7 μmol/L, P = 0.02), and significantly increased total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (+ 70.1 ± 130.9 vs. - 19.7 ± 124.6 mmol/L, P = 0.009) and total glutathione (GSH) levels (+ 28.7 ± 61.5 vs. - 14.9 ± 85.3 μmol/L, P = 0.02). Supplementation with synbiotic had a significant decrease in cesarean section rate (16.7 vs. 40.0%, P = 0.04), lower incidence of hyperbilirubinemic newborns (3.3 vs. 30.0%, P = 0.006), and newborns' hospitalization (3.3 vs. 30.0%, P = 0.006) compared with the placebo. Synbiotic supplementation did not affect plasma nitric oxide (NO) levels and other pregnancy outcomes. Overall, synbiotic supplementation among GDM women for 6 weeks had beneficial effects on serum hs-CRP, plasma TAC, GSH, and MDA; cesarean section; incidence of newborn's hyperbilirubinemia; and newborns' hospitalization but did not affect plasma NO levels and other pregnancy outcomes. http://www.irct.ir : www.irct.ir : IRCT201704205623N108.

Methods to Assess the Antioxidative Properties of Probiotics

Probiotics prove useful in correcting and preventing numerous health conditions, including those having severe impact on society, e.g., obesity and cancer. Notably, these capabilities of probiotics appear to be associated with their antioxidant properties. The mechanisms of antioxidant action of probiotics range from immediate biochemical scavenging of reactive substances to induction of signaling events leading to increased capacity of the host's cytoprotective systems. Since the antioxidant effects of probiotics significantly vary in types and details, a broad selection of methods of assessment of these properties is required in order to identify, characterize, and develop novel probiotics for medical purposes, as well as to explain the mechanisms of action of probiotics already in use in healthcare. This review revises the versatile toolbox, which can be used to assess the antioxidant properties of probiotics.