Nondigestible carbohydrates, butyrate, and butyrate-producing bacteria

Decoding the synergistic potential of herbal medicine and dietary supplements for treating postmenopausal osteoporosis

PURPOSE

The exploration of the combined effects of FLL and quinoa presents an intriguing opportunity to enhance the efficacy of osteoporosis treatment.

METHODS

This study aimed to predict the potential anti-osteoporotic effects of FLL and quinoa using network pharmacology and subsequently verify these predictions through experimental investigation. Thirty rats were divided into five groups: sham operation group (SO), ovariectomized group (OVX), FLL group (FLL), quinoa group (Quinoa), and FLL combined with quinoa group (F&Q). The 12-week experiment involved measurements of bone density and microstructure, histological evaluation of femoral trabeculae and bone cortex, quantification of osteoclasts in the femur, assessment of osteoclast differentiation factor expression (NFATc1 and C-Fos), and measurement of collagen I carboxyl-terminal peptide (CTX-1). Additionally, intestinal flora analysis was performed.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated reduced bone mineral density, compromised bone microarchitecture, increased osteoclast numbers and differentiation, and enhanced bone resorption in the OVX group, which were completely ameliorated by FLL, quinoa and F&Q interventions. F&Q exhibited superior improvement in bone density and microarchitecture compared to FLL and quinoa, although no significant differences were observed in their effects on osteoclasts and bone resorption. Gut flora analysis revealed that F&Q was more effective than FLL and quinoa in alleviating OVX-induced intestinal flora disorders, particularly in terms of enhancing intestinal flora diversity and function.

CONCLUSION

The combo of FLL and quinoa was more effective in treating ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis and gut flora dysbiosis than FLL alone.

Associations between oral frailty, oral microbiota composition, and postoperative delirium in older adult patients

BACKGROUND

Poor oral health, prevalent among the older adults, can undermine overall health and contribute to frailty. Older adults experiencing oral frailty and dysbiosis potentially face an elevated risk of postoperative delirium. This study aims to explore the influence of oral frailty and changes in oral microbiota composition on occurrence of postoperative delirium in older adult patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery.

METHODS

A total of 303 older adult patients undergoing non-cardiac surgeries were recruited in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from July 2023 to December 2023. Oral swabs for oral microbiota analyses were collected before surgery. Subsequently, after propensity score matching, 21 samples from patients with postoperative delirium and 21 samples from patients without postoperative delirium were analyzed for oral microbiota. Our primary objective was to determine the association between oral frailty, changes in oral microbiota composition, and the occurrence of postoperative delirium.

RESULTS

Oral frailty emerged as an independent risk factor for postoperative delirium [HR = 1.75; 95% CI = (1.04-2.96); p = 0.035]. Additionally, patients with postoperative delirium demonstrated lower oral microbiota diversity, as indicated by a reduced Chao index compared with those without postoperative delirium (p = 0.034). A significant association was also found between the dysbiosis index and postoperative delirium (p < 0.001). ROC analysis revealed a pronounced area under the curve of 0.95 (95% CI: 0.88-1.00) for the dysbiosis index in predicting postoperative delirium. Subsequent Principal Coordinates and Kaplan-Meier analyses affirmed that both beta diversity and the dysbiosis index were significantly correlated with incidence of postoperative delirium, with p-values of 0.002 and <0.001, respectively. Furthermore, the interaction analysis through Cox proportional hazards regression suggested a combined effect of oral frailty and the dysbiosis index on the likelihood of developing postoperative delirium (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Oral frailty and changes in oral microbiota among older adult patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery may influence the incidence of postoperative delirium.

Oat Beta-Glucans Modulate the Gut Microbiome, Barrier Function, and Immune Responses in an In Vivo Model of Early-Stage Colorectal Cancer

Oat beta-glucans (OBGs) are known for their beneficial effects on gut health, including anti-inflammatory and prebiotic effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of two doses (1% or 3% w /w ) of dietary low-molar-mass OBG supplementation on colorectal cancer (CRC) development, immune cell profiles, intestinal barrier protein expression, and microbiota composition in a rat model of CRC induced by azoxymethane (AOM). Microbiome analysis revealed significant differences between the control and CRC groups. OBG supplementation influenced microbial diversity and abundance, particularly increasing the population of beneficial bacteria, such as Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae , associated with butyrate production. However, higher doses of OBG (3%) led to a decrease in butyrate-producing bacteria and a shift toward higher levels of Akkermansia muciniphila and Enterococcus faecalis . Immune cell profiling showed a higher percentage of T lymphocytes (CD3+) in rats fed a diet supplemented with 3% OBG, both in the intraepithelial (IEL) and lamina propria lymphocytes (LPLs). Immunohistochemical analysis of the large intestine revealed a significantly elevated expression of intestinal barrier proteins, i.e., claudin 3 and 4 in rats receiving 1% OBG, while claudin 7 expression was reduced in early-stage CRC. Gene expression analysis also revealed a significant downregulation of Cldn1 in CRC rats. These findings suggest that dietary OBG supplementation modulates the gut microbiota, immune response, and intestinal barrier integrity, with potential implications for nutritional CRC development prevention and treatment strategies.

Metabarcoding analysis of oral microbiome during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a dynamic physiological process involving significant hormonal, immune, and metabolic changes to support fetal growth and development. This study investigates the changes in salivary microbiome and biochemical markers from the second to the third trimester of pregnancy. Saliva samples were collected from 45 pregnant women enrolled in the Qatar Birth Cohort study at two time points (second and third trimesters). DNA was extracted and subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing using Oxford Nanopore Technology. Microbial diversity and taxonomic analyses were performed, along with correlation analyses between microbial abundance and clinical parameters. Biochemically, significant increases in BMI, pulse rate, HbA1c, LDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides were observed in the third trimester compared to the second. Microbial diversity analysis revealed significant changes in microbial richness and composition. Taxonomy analysis showed a significant 3-fold increase in Bacteroidota. Also, a significant decline in Selenomonas and a significant increase in Veillonella, specifically Veillonella dispar and Veillonella atypica, as well as an increase in Granulicatella were observed in the third trimester, along with a significant decrease in Streptococcus sanguinis. Correlation analysis during the second trimester revealed positive associations between BMI, cholesterol, LDL, and Selenomonas, and negative correlations with Streptococcus and Gemella. In the third trimester, BMI was negatively correlated with Campylobacter, glucose levels were negatively correlated with Neisseria, and triglyceride levels were negatively correlated with Prevotella. These findings highlight significant biochemical and microbial shifts during pregnancy, underscoring the importance of monitoring oral health and metabolic changes in pregnant women.

Effects of Fzd6 on intestinal flora and neuroinflammation in lipopolysaccharide-induced depression-like mice

BACKGROUND

The gut microbiome is critical for the pathophysiology of depression, and inflammation is one of the factors contributing to depression. Fzd6 has been implicated in depression. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of the Fzd6 mutation on gut microbiota structure and the possible regulatory mechanisms involved in depression-associated neuroinflammation.

METHODS

Wild-type (Fzd6WT) and Fzd6 mutant (Fzd6Q152E) male mice were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 7 days. Behavioral experiments were used to detect the behavioral changes of mice in each group, and the composition of intestinal flora and systemic inflammation levels of mice were further detected.

RESULTS

In LPS mice, the Fzd6 mutation enhanced depression-like behavior symptoms, increased the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, decreased the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, and caused intestinal flora disturbance. Subsequently, 16SrRNA sequencing revealed significant changes in the relative abundance of the inflammation-associated bacterial groups Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae in Fzd6Q152E mice. In mice with depression, the levels of G protein-coupled receptors, GPR41 and GPR43, and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in the small intestine were down-regulated, and the expression of GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R), peroxisome proliferators activated receptors gamma (PPAR-γ), and nuclear factor kappa-B inhibitor alpha (IκBα) in the hippocampus was also down-regulated, while the expression of nuclear factor kappa-B p65 (NF-κB p65) was up-regulated.

LIMITATIONS

The size of the spleen was not studied in this model, and the Fzd6 mutation itself does not cause systemic inflammation such as IL-6.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that mutations in Fzd6 regulate the composition of the gut flora, which contributes to depression-associated inflammation.

Osteopontin associated Bifidobacterium bifidum microencapsulation modulates infant fecal fermentation and gut microbiota development

Probiotic supplementation is an effective method for improving infant gut health, and probiotic encapsulation can enhance probiotic viability under adverse environmental conditions while ensuring an adequate amount of probiotic is delivered to the target site to confer a health benefit for the host. In this study, Bifidobacterium bifidum R0071 was microencapsulated using pectin or alginate, combined bovine milk osteopontin (OPN) as an excipient during the microencapsulation process. The microencapsulated probiotics were subjected to in vitro simulated infant gastrointestinal digestion and a fecal fermentation model to assess survival capacity and their impact on gas and organic acid production, as well as the development of gut microbiota. The results demonstrated that microencapsulation in the presence of osteopontin increased simulated gastrointestinal survival. During infant fecal fermentation, a significant increase in total gas production (5.5-9.1 mL) was observed for the microencapsulated probiotic with even higher level of gas production observed for osteopontin associated microencapsulated probiotic during the late stage of fermentation (8-24 h). Infant fecal fermentation of the microencapsulated probiotic also produced substantial amounts of acetate (8-17 mM) and lactate (12-35 mM), along with minor amounts of succinate (1-2 mM) and propionate (0.5-2 mM). A positive correlation was observed between metabolite production and the number of viable B. bifidum R0071 entering colon fermentation, which significantly increased with the use of OPN in the microencapsulation process. The osteopontin associated microencapsulated probiotic also significantly elevated the relative abundance of Veillonella, which, along with Bifidobacterium, influenced gas and metabolite production. Overall, our findings demonstrate that incorporating OPN as an excipient in the microencapsulation of Bifidobacterium bifidum R0071 enhances probiotic viability and positively influences the development of infant gut microbiota, highlighting its potential application in promoting infant health.

Effects of traditional Chinese medicine polysaccharides on chronic diseases by modulating gut microbiota: A review

Intestinal tract is the largest immune system of human body. Gut microbiota (GM) can produce a large number of metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids and bile acids, which regulate the physiological health of the host and affect the development of disease. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) polysaccharides have attracted extensive attention with multiple biological activities and low toxicity. TCM polysaccharides can promote the growth of intestinal beneficial bacteria and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria by regulating the structure and function of GM, thus playing a crucial role in preventing or treating chronic diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), liver diseases, cancer, etc. In this paper, the research progress of TCM polysaccharides in the treatment of chronic diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, T2DM, liver diseases, cancer, etc. by modulating GM was reviewed. Meanwhile, this review makes an in-depth discussion on the shortcomings of the research of TCM polysaccharides on chronic diseases by modulating GM, and new valuable prospection for the future researches of TCM polysaccharides are proposed, which will provide new ideas for the further study of TCM polysaccharides.

Comparative study on static and dynamic digest characteristics of oat β-Glucan and β-Gluco-Oligosaccharides

Both oat β-glucans (OGs) and their hydrolyzed counterparts, oat β-gluco-oligosaccharides (OGOs), are dietary fibers indigestible by humans. They serve as substrates for the colonic intestinal flora, exhibiting potential prebiotic properties. This study, through in vitro digestion simulation, found that OGs and OGOs are not degraded and can safely pass through the upper digestive tract to reach the colon. Anaerobic fermentation was conducted using fecal microbiota in an anaerobic tube and gastrointestinal reactor to investigate their impact on the structure and metabolism of intestinal flora. The research revealed that OGs and OGOs distinctly influence the fermentation characteristics and the intestinal flora's metabolic profile. Specifically, in static fermentation, OGs notably increased butyric acid production in both healthy individuals and those with type 2 diabetes, whereas OGOs more effectively enhanced acetic and propionic acid production in type 2 diabetics. Moreover, OGs and OGOs variably affected the composition of intestinal flora. In dynamic fermentation, there was a marked improvement in the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), with OGs significantly boosting butyric acid and OGOs enhancing acetic acid production. This study lays a theoretical foundation for employing specific dietary fibers to selectively improve intestinal flora and supports the development of functional ingredients that modulate intestinal microorganisms, utilizing in vitro research methodologies.

Comprehensive assessment of rice bran dietary fiber on gut microbiota composition and metabolism during in vitro fermentation

Rice bran, a by-product of rice processing, is rich in various nutrients. As one of the main components of rice bran, dietary fiber has a variety of potential health benefits, especially its probiotic effects on gut health. This study involved the preparation and characterization of soluble rice bran dietary fibers (RB-SDF) and insoluble rice bran dietary fibers (RB-IDF), followed by an investigation into their gastrointestinal probiotic impact and principal metabolites. These results showed that rice bran dietary fiber could promote the production of short-chain fatty acids and the growth of probiotics during the fermentation in vitro. Specifically, RB-SDF significantly stimulated the growth of Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, and Acinetobacter, while RB-IDF encouraged the expansion of Tyzzerella, Pseudoflavonifractor, and Lachnospiraceae_UCG_004. Both dietary fibers could reduce the relative abundance of Escherichia_Shigella and Fusobacterium. The differential metabolites identified by untargeted metabolomics were l-pyroglutamic acid, d-(+)-tryptophan, indole-3-lactic acid, sulfolithocholic acid, 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde, indicating that different carbohydrates could significantly affect the metabolic profile of gut microbiota. Our finding indicated that rice bran dietary fiber can produce beneficial metabolites and modulate microbial ecosystems, which deserve further development for health applications.

Traditional Chinese medicine improved diabetic kidney disease through targeting gut microbiota

CONTEXT

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) affects nearly 40% of diabetic patients, often leading to end-stage renal disease that requires renal replacement therapies, such as dialysis and transplantation. The gut microbiota, an integral aspect of human evolution, plays a crucial role in this condition. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has shown promising outcomes in ameliorating DKD by addressing the gut microbiota.

OBJECTIVE

This review elucidates the modifications in gut microbiota observed in DKD and explores the impact of TCM interventions on correcting microbial dysregulation.

METHODS

We searched relevant articles from databases including Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley, and Springer Nature. The following keywords were used: diabetic kidney disease, diabetic nephropathy, gut microbiota, natural product, TCM, Chinese herbal medicine, and Chinese medicinal herbs. Rigorous criteria were applied to identify high-quality studies on TCM interventions against DKD.

RESULTS

Dysregulation of the gut microbiota, including Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, and Clostridium, has been observed in individuals with DKD. Key indicators of microbial dysregulation include increased uremic solutes and decreased short-chain fatty acids. Various TCM therapies, such as formulas, tablets, granules, capsules, and decoctions, exhibit unique advantages in regulating the disordered microbiota to treat DKD.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights the importance of targeting the gut-kidney axis to regulate microbial disorders, their metabolites, and associated signaling pathways in DKD. The Qing-Re-Xiao-Zheng formula, the Shenyan Kangfu tablet, the Huangkui capsule, and the Bekhogainsam decoction are potential candidates to address the gut-kidney axis. TCM interventions offer a significant therapeutic approach by targeting microbial dysregulation in patients with DKD.

Licorice-regulated gut-joint axis for alleviating collagen-induced rheumatoid arthritis

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is partially affected by the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Licorice (GC), a medicinal and food-related herb, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory activity; however, studies on its mechanisms of action in RA are limited.

METHOD

Using a bovine type-II collagen-induced arthritis rat model, this study examined how GC influences the gut-joint axis to decrease RA. The Th17/Treg cell ratios in the blood, colon, and joints were also measured. Metabolomics and 16S rRNA sequencing were applied to explore the effects of variations in gut flora and metabolites.

RESULTS

The arthropathological slices, inflammation markers, and joint inflammation index scores in the GC treatment group significantly differed from those in the CIA group. Studies on the effect of GC on the gut-joint axis showed changes in the levels of lipopolysaccharide and diamine oxidase, both directly associated with intestinal permeability. ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1, three intestinal tight-junction proteins, may express themselves more when exposed to GC. By maintaining an appropriate Th17/Treg cell ratio in the blood, colon, and joints, GC may reduce impaired to the intestinal barrier. An imbalance in the intestinal microenvironment, caused by modifications in gut flora and endogenous substances, can damage the intestinal barrier. GC may modify the relative abundances of Papillibacter, Clostridium, Eubacterium, Helicobacter, Provotella, and Barnesiella during RA treatment by repairing the intestinal barrier. The metabolic differences were mainly related to primary bile acid biosynthesis, pyrimidine metabolism, steroid biosynthesis, biotin metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism. A fecal microbiota transplantation experiment confirmed the involvement of the gut microbiota and its metabolites in GC-mediated RA therapy.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrated that GC repairs the intestinal barrier and adjusts the gut-joint axis to manage immunological imbalance in RA.

Metagenomics Reveals Sex-Based Differences in Murine Fecal Microbiota Profiles Induced by Chronic Alcohol Consumption

Chronic ethanol exposure induces an inflammatory response within the intestinal tract, compromising mucosal and epithelial integrity and leading to dysbiosis of the gut microbiome. However, the specific roles of the gut microbiota in mediating ethanol-induced effects, as well as their interactions with the immune system, remain poorly characterized. This study aimed to evaluate sex-based differences in fecal microbiota profiles induced by chronic alcohol consumption and to assess whether TLR4 is involved in these effects. We analyzed the 16S rRNA gene sequencing of fecal samples from male and female wild-type (WT) and TLR4-knockout (TLR4-KO) mice with and without chronic ethanol exposure over a three-month period. Our findings provide evidence, for the first time, that male mice are more susceptible to the effects of ethanol on the fecal microbiota, since ethanol exposure induced greater alterations in the Gram-negative and -positive bacteria with immunogenic capacity in the WT male mice than in the female mice. We also demonstrate that the absence of immune receptor TLR4 leads to different microbiota in both sexes, showing anti-inflammatory and protective properties for intestinal barrier function and resulting in a phenotype more resistant to ethanol's effects. These findings may open new avenues for understanding the relationship between gut microbiota profiles and inflammation in the digestive system induced by chronic alcohol consumption.

Existence and distribution of the microbiome in tumour tissues of children with hepatoblastoma

Cancer microbiota have recently been demonstrated in several cancer types. The microbiome enhances inflammation in the cancer microenvironment and affects the disease pathology by regulating tumourigenesis, cancer progression, and chemotherapy resistance. Hepatoblastoma (HB), the most common childhood malignant tumour, is a malignant embryonic tumour. However, the pathogenesis and molecular basis of HB remain poorly understood. In this study, to explore the existence and distribution of the microbiome in tumour tissues and adjacent non-tumour tissues of children with HB, we mainly performed 16S rDNA sequencing, and the results showed that the diversity and abundance of the microbiome in children with HB were significantly different between HB tumours and adjacent non-tumour tissues (p < 0.01). At the phylum level, the dominant microbiome in the tumour tissues were Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes. At the genus level, Ruminococcus was more abundant in HB tumours than in the adjacent non-tumour tissues. Simultaneously, the abundances of Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, Lachnospiracea-NK4A136, and Alistipes in HB tumours were lower than those in the adjacent non-tumour tissues. In addition, Romboutsia strongly correlated with alpha-fetoprotein, an important indicator of HB. Sphingomonas was abundant in primary HB tumours, whereas Oscillibacter and Pandoraea were abundant in metastatic HB tumours. However, whether these bacteria are associated with HB needs further evaluation. Therefore, we identified the microbiome that correlated with the occurrence and development of HB. Ruminococcus and Romboutsia were identified as potential bacterial markers of HB tumours. To conclude, we found that HB also contains cancer microbiome, and it is necessary to shed light on the microbiome characteristics of HB in the future.

The protective effect of S-adenosylmethionine on chronic adolescent stress-induced depression-like behaviors by regulating gut microbiota

The efficacy and tolerability of current antidepressants for adolescent depression are inadequate. S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), known for its effectiveness and minimal side effects in adult depression, remains unstudied in adolescents. This study explored the potential of SAMe to address depression-like behaviors in juvenile rats induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS), with a focus on gut microbiome interactions. Adolescent male Wistar rats were subjected to a 4-week CUMS regimen and received daily intraperitoneal injections of 300 mg/kg SAMe. Behavioral assessments included the sucrose preference test, elevated plus maze test, open field test, and Y-maze test. Histopathological changes of the hippocampus and colon were observed by Nissl staining and hematoxylin and eosin staining, respectively. Gut microbiome composition was analyzed using Accurate 16S absolute quantification sequencing. The results showed that SAMe significantly improved behavioral outcomes, reduced histopathological damages in hippocampal neurons and colon tissues, and modulated the gut microbiota of depressed rats. It favorably altered the ratio of Bacteroidetes to Firmicutes, decreased the absolute abundance of Deferribacteres, and adjusted levels of key microbial genera associated with depression-like behaviors. These results suggested that SAMe could effectively counter depression-like behaviors in CUMS-exposed adolescent rats by mitigating hippocampal neuronal and colon damage and modulating the gut microbiota. This supports SAMe as a viable and tolerable treatment option for adolescent depression, highlighting the importance of the gut-brain axis in therapeutic strategies.

The effects of Mitragyna speciosa extracts on intestinal microbiota and their metabolites in vitro fecal fermentation

BACKGROUND

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) has a long history of traditional use. It contains various alkaloids and polyphenols. The properties of kratom's alkaloids have been well-documented. However, the property of kratom's polyphenols in water-soluble phase have been less frequently reported. This study assessed the effects of water-soluble Mitragyna speciosa (kratom) extract (MSE) on gut microbiota and their metabolite production in fecal batch culture.

RESULTS

The water-soluble kratom extract (MSE0) and the water-soluble kratom extract after partial sugar removal (MSE50) both contained polyphenols, with total phenolic levels of 2037.91 ± 51.13 and 3997.95 ± 27.90 mg GAE/g extract, respectively and total flavonoids of 81.10 ± 1.00 and 84.60 ± 1.43 mg CEQ/g extract. The gut microbiota in fecal batch culture was identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing at 0 and 24 h of fermentation. After fermentation, MSE50 stimulated the growth of Bifidobacterium more than MSE0. MSE0 gave the highest total fatty acids level among the treatments. The phenolic metabolites produced by some intestinal microbiota during fecal fermentation at 24 h were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The major metabolite of biotransformation of both water-soluble MSEs by intestinal microbiota was pyrocatechol (9.85-11.53%).

CONCLUSION

The water-soluble MSEs and their produced metabolites could potentially be used as ingredients for functional and medicinal food production that supports specific gut microbiota. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Dietary pectin and inulin: A promising adjuvant supplement for collagen-induced arthritis through gut microbiome restoration and CD4+ T cell reconstitution

Dietary strategies rich in fiber have been demonstrated to offer benefits to individuals afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the specific mechanisms through which a high-fiber diet (HFD) mitigates RA's autoimmunity remain elusive. Herein, we investigate the influence of pectin- and inulin-rich HFD on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). We establish that HFD significantly alleviates arthritis in CIA mice by regulating the Th17/Treg balance. The rectification of aberrant T cell differentiation by the HFD is linked to the modulation of gut microbiota, augmenting the abundance of butyrate in feces. Concurrently, adding butyrate to the drinking water mirrors the HFD's impact on ameliorating CIA, encompassing arthritis mitigation, regulating intestinal barrier integrity, and restoring the Th17/Treg equilibrium. Butyrate reshapes the metabolic profile of CD4+ T cells in an AMPK-dependent manner. Our research underscores the importance of dietary interventions in rectifying gut microbiota for RA management and offers an explanation of how diet-derived microbial metabolites influence RA's immune-inflammatory-reaction.

Polysaccharides in Medicinal and Food Homologous Plants regulate intestinal flora to improve type 2 diabetes: Systematic review

BACKGROUND

Medicinal and food homologous plants (MFHPs) which can improve Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) draw significant attention among the public due to their low toxicity and more safety. Polysaccharides, one of the various active components of MFHPs, are recognized as effective modulators of the intestinal flora. By altering the composition of intestinal flora and affecting their metabolic products, polysaccharides can improve T2DM, making them a central focus of anti-diabetic research.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to systematically review the mechanism by which polysaccharides from MFHPs (MFHPPs) regulate the composition of intestinal flora and its metabolic products to improve T2DM.

METHODS

This study follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and conducts a comprehensive search on the PubMed, Web of Science and Embase databases. All experimental articles published up to March 4, 2024, are included in the search.

RESULTS

Among the 5733 articles reviewed, 29 were selected, covering 22 different MFHPs. MFHPPs can improve T2DM, particularly in lowering blood glucose levels, with consistent results. MFHPPs can regulate the diversity of intestinal flora in T2DM animal models, primarily affecting four phyla: decreasing Firmicutes and Proteobacteria while increasing Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteriota. At the genus level, the improvement of T2DM by MFHPPs is associated with the modulation of 12 key genera: Allobaculum, Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Helicobacter, Halomonas, Olsenella, Oscillospira, Shigella, Escherichia-Shigella, Romboutsia and Bacteroides. At the molecular level, MFHPPs primarily act by modulating the intestinal flora to increase short-chain fatty acid levels, promote the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1, influence the IGF1/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, or the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway, to lower blood glucose levels. They may also improve T2DM by working in glucose metabolism through the "microbiota-gut-organ" axis. MFHPPs can also alleviate T2DM by mitigating inflammation and oxidative stress: MFHPPs regulate intestinal flora to reduce lipopolysaccharide "leakage" and enhance intestinal mucosal permeability to tackle the inflammation associated with T2DM; MFHPPs enhance the expression of oxidative stress-related enzymes to alleviate oxidative stress and improve T2DM. Lastly, from a metabolic pathway perspective, MFHPPs are primarily involved in the metabolism of amino acids and their derivatives, carbohydrate metabolism and glutathione metabolism.

CONCLUSION

MFHPPs can improve T2DM by enhancing the composition of intestinal flora, regulating its metabolic products to promote insulin secretion, inhibiting glucagon-like peptide secretion, facilitating glycogen synthesis, reducing inflammation levels and alleviating oxidative stress. Furthermore, MFHPPs demonstrate potential protective effects on critical organs such as the pancreas, liver, kidneys and heart. Therefore, MFHPPs demonstrate significant clinical potential. However, most studies can only indicate the potential of MFHPPs intervention in improving T2DM through the intestinal flora. The causality between MFHPPs regulating the intestinal flora and T2DM requires further investigation.

Marine-Derived Fucose-Containing Carbohydrates: Review of Sources, Structure, and Beneficial Effects on Gastrointestinal Health

Fucose, fucose-containing oligosaccharides, and fucose-containing polysaccharides have been widely applied in the fields of food and medicine, including applications in Helicobacter pylori eradication and renal function protection. Fucose-containing carbohydrates (FCCs) derived from marine organisms such as seaweed, invertebrates, microalgae, fungi, and bacteria have garnered growing attention due to their diverse bioactivities and potential therapeutic applications. Marine-derived FCCs characterized by high fucose residue content and extensive sulfate substitution, including fucoidan, fucosylated chondroitin sulfate, and fucose-rich microbial exopolysaccharides, have demonstrated significant potential in promoting gastrointestinal health. This review describes the unique structural features of FCCs and summarizes their health benefits, including regulation of gut microbiota, modulation of microbial metabolism, anti-adhesion activities against H. pylori and gut pathogens, protection against inflammatory injuries, and anti-tumor activities. Additionally, this review discusses the structural characteristics that influence the functional properties and the limitations related to the activity research and preparation processes of FCCs, providing a balanced perspective on the application potential and challenges of FCCs with specific structures for the regulation of gastrointestinal health and diseases.

Causal Associations Between the Gut Microbiota and Hypertension-Related Traits Through Mendelian Randomization: A Cross-Sectional Cohort Study

Previous studies have suggested a link between the gut microbiome and hypertension-related traits like blood pressure. However, these reports are often limited by weak causal evidence. This study investigates the potential causal association between gut microbiota and hypertension-related traits using Mendelian randomization with summary data from genome-wide association studies. The inverse-variance weighted method revealed that the Clostridium innocuum group (Odds ratio [OR]: 1.0047, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0004-1.0090, p = 0.0336), Eubacterium fissicatena group (OR: 1.0047, 95% CI: 1.0005-1.0088, p = 0.0266), Lachnospiraceae FCS020 group (OR: 1.0063, 95% CI: 1.0004-1.0122, p = 0.0361), and Olsenella (OR: 1.0044, 95% CI: 1.0001-1.0088, p = 0.0430) were associated with an increased risk of hypertension. Conversely, Flavonifractor (OR: 0.9901, 95% CI: 0.9821-0.9982, p = 0.0166), Parabacteroides (OR: 0.9874, 95% CI: 0.9776-0.9972, p = 0.0121), and Senegalimassilia (OR: 0.9907, 95% CI: 0.9842-0.9974, p = 0.0063) were associated with a decreased risk of hypertension. External validation with the Guangdong Gut Microbiome Project confirmed a negative correlation between Parabacteroides and hypertension, potentially through metabolic pathways. These findings provide further evidence supporting the hypothesis that microbes and their metabolites play a role in blood pressure regulation.

Impacts of ectoparasite flea infestation on gut microbiota of the Meriones unguiculatus in a rodent-flea system

Fleas, along with one of their host species, Meriones unguiculatus, possess the capability to act as vectors in the transmission of plague. Parasitism by fleas may markedly influence the physiology and immune system of their hosts. Gut microbiota plays an important role in the growth and development of rodents. However, few studies have explored the impacts of ectoparasitic flea on the gut microbiome of rodents. This study investigated the immunological responses and changes in the gut microbial diversity and composition in both wild and laboratory rodents infested with fleas and laboratory rodents infested with Ctenocephalides felis. We measured immune reactions post-infestation by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and explored the effects of ectoparasitic infestation on the diversity and composition of the rodent gut microbiota in microbiome studies by 16S rRNA gene sequencing techniques. After flea infestation, results from 16S rRNA gene sequencing techniques indicated a significant increase in alpha diversity, affecting the composition of the gut microbiota. At the genus level, the abundance of the harmful bacterium Desulfovibrio increased. Beta diversity analyses showed significant differences between the gut microbiota of the experimental and control groups. ELISA results revealed significantly elevated levels of IgG in parasitized mice, while the differences in IgA levels were not significant. Flea infections affect the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota in the M. unguiculatu, and it has been found that the biomarker Desulfovibrio increases following flea infection in these rodents. Our results indicate that the gut microbiota can regulate the stability of the rodent-flea system. These findings may provide a foundation for exploring preventive measures against plague and aid in developing more effective treatments for the infection.

Impact of quinoa and food processing on gastrointestinal health: a narrative review

Due to exceptional nutritional quality, quinoa is an ideal candidate to solve food insecurity in many countries. Quinoa's profile of polyphenols, essential amino acids, and lipids make it ideal for digestive health. How the nutrient profile and bioavailability of quinoa metabolites differs across cooking methods such as heat, pressure, and time employed has yet to be elucidated. The objective of this review is to compile available research pertaining to the impact of various cooking methods on quinoa's nutritional properties with specific emphasis on how those properties affect gut health. Replacing small percentages of wheat flour with quinoa flour in baked bread increases the antioxidant activity, essential amino acids, fiber, minerals, and polyphenols. Extruding quinoa flour reduces amino acid, lipid, and polyphenol content of the raw seed, however direct quinoa and cereal grain extrudate comparisons are absent. Boiling quinoa leads to an increase of dietary fiber as well as exceptional retention of amino acids, lipids, and polyphenols. Baking and extruding with quinoa flour results in less optimal texture due to higher density, however minor substitutions can retain acceptable texture and even improve taste. Future research on quinoa's substitution in common processing methods will create equally desirable, yet more nutritious food products.

Potential Prebiotic Effects of Artemisia capillaris-Derived Transglycosylated Product

This study investigated the impact of a transglycosylated product (ACOD) catalyzed by Leuconostoc mesenteroides MKSR dextransucrase using sucrose as a glucosyl donor and both maltose and Artemisia capillaris as acceptors on gut microbiota through fecal fermentation. ACOD promoted the growth of probiotics such as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lacticaseibacillus casei, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG, and Leuconostoc mesenteroides MKSR, while inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli, E. coli O157:H7, Enterococcus faecalis, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella flexneri, Streptococcus mutans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus cereus during independent cultivation. Fecal fermentation for 24 h revealed that ACOD significantly increased the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) compared to the blank and fructoooligosaccharide (FOS) groups. Specifically, ACOD led to a 4.5-fold increase in acetic acid production compared to FOSs and a 3.3-fold increase in propionic acid production. Both the ACOD and FOS groups exhibited higher levels of butyric acid than the blank. Notably, ACOD significantly modulated the composition of the gut microbiota by increasing the relative abundances of Lactobacillus and decreasing Escherichia/Shigella and Salmonella. In contrast, FOSs remarkably promoted the growth of Salmonella. These findings suggest that ACOD is a potential candidate for prebiotics that improve the intestinal environment by being actively used by beneficial bacteria.

Impact of butyric acid modification on the structural and functional properties of rice starch

Rice is a food with a high starch content, comprising over 75% of its composition. However, prolonged and excessive consumption of this cereal may lead to elevated blood glucose levels, which can increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Butyric acid (BA), the primary energy source for colonic epithelial cells, exhibits the highest utilization rate among short-chain fatty acids, underscoring its importance for human health. In this study, rice starch butyrate (RSB) samples were synthesized using the aqueous phase process, with broken rice starch (RS) and butyric anhydride serving as the substrate. RSB samples with different degrees of substitution (DS) were produced by modulating the addition amount of butyric anhydride. The crystal structures, morphology of starch granules, pasting properties, thermal stability, and in vitro digestibilities of the RSB were investigated and compared with those of native rice starch. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the successful incorporation of butyryl into the starch molecules. With the increase in DS, the roughness of the RSB material's surface gradually increased, leading to the deterioration of the smooth structure on certain surfaces, which resulted in the appearance of cracks and collapses. Additionally, the crystallinity diminished from 24.77% to 7.41% with increasing DS. Concurrently, in vitro digestive characterisation revealed that the percentage of resistant starch increased from 24.33% to 47.72%. Thus, this study can provide a theoretical basis for the development of novel products of amyl butyrate.

Factors affecting neutrophil functions during sepsis: human microbiome and epigenetics

Sepsis is a severe disease that occurs when the body's immune system reacts excessively to infection. The body's response, which includes an intense antibacterial reaction, can damage its tissues and organs. Neutrophils are the major components of white blood cells in circulation, play a vital role in innate immunity while fighting against infections, and are considered a feature determining sepsis classification. There is a plethora of basic research detailing neutrophil functioning, among which, the study of neutrophil extracellular traps is providing novel insights into mechanisms and treatments of sepsis. This review explores their functions, dysfunctions, and influences in the context of sepsis. The interplay between neutrophils and the human microbiome and the impact of DNA methylation on neutrophil function in sepsis are crucial areas of study. The interaction between neutrophils and the human microbiome is complex, particularly in the context of sepsis, where dysbiosis may occur. We highlight the importance of deciphering neutrophils' functional alterations and their epigenetic features in sepsis because it is critical for defining sepsis endotypes and opening up the possibility for novel diagnostic methods and therapy. Specifically, epigenetic signatures are pivotal since they will provide a novel implication for a sepsis diagnostic method when used in combination with the cell-free DNA. Research is exploring how specific patterns of DNA methylation in neutrophils, detectable in cell-free DNA, could serve as biomarkers for the early detection of sepsis.

Enhancing immunomodulation in cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppressed mice through targeted modulation of butyrate-producing gut microbiota via oral administration of astragalus polysaccharides

Astragalus polysaccharide is one of the most extensively studied traditional Chinese medicinal polysaccharides because of its immunomodulatory activity and has attracted considerable attention. Existing evidence suggests that its potential immunomodulatory mechanism is related to the modulation of intestinal microbiota. However, current research methods on the gut microbiota mainly focus on 16S rRNA sequencing, providing limited evidence of specific changes in functional bacterial groups in the intestine. Butyrate is a class of short-chain fatty acids among the microbial metabolites in the gut and is most closely associated with immunomodulatory activity. Thus, in this study, we extracted and purified a polysaccharide from astragalus composed of a main chain of →4)-α-D-Glcp-(1 → and →4,6)-α-D-Glcp-(1→, with side chains of →6)-α-D-Glcp-(1→ and aggregated arabinose, and investigated the changes in butyrate-producing bacterial groups in mice during the immunomodulation process of astragalus polysaccharide, using two butyrate-producing bacterial-specific primers. The results showed that oral administration of astragalus polysaccharide significantly increased butyrate production in the mouse intestine, restoring the disrupted butyrate-producing bacterial abundance and diversity caused by immunosuppression. In conclusion, our study provides the first evidence of the targeted modulation of the butyrate-producing gut microbiota by astragalus polysaccharide, offering insights into its pharmacological activity.

Microbiota and beneficial metabolites in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. In recent years, the impact of the gut microbiota on the development of CRC has become clear. The gut microbiota is the community of microorganisms living in the gut symbiotic relationship with the host. These microorganisms contribute to the development of CRC through various mechanisms that are not yet fully understood. Increasing scientific evidence suggests that metabolites produced by the gut microbiota may influence CRC development by exerting protective and deleterious effects. This article reviews the metabolites produced by the gut microbiota, which are derived from the intake of complex carbohydrates, proteins, dairy products, and phytochemicals from plant foods and are associated with a reduced risk of CRC. These metabolites include short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), indole and its derivatives, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and polyphenols. Each metabolite, its association with CRC risk, the possible mechanisms by which they exert anti-tumour functions and their relationship with the gut microbiota are described. In addition, other gut microbiota-derived metabolites that are gaining importance for their role as CRC suppressors are included.

Characterization of Intestinal Flora in Osteoporosis Patients Based on 16S rDNA Sequencing

Aim

This study investigated differences in gut flora between osteoporosis (OP) patients and healthy individuals using 16S rDNA sequencing. The correlation between differential flora abundance and bone mineral density (BMD) was analyzed, and key flora and potential mechanisms associated with OP were explored.

Methods

Forty-three OP patients and twenty-four healthy volunteers were recruited. Gender, age, height, weight, and BMD data were collected. DNA from fecal samples was extracted for 16S rDNA sequencing. The Kruskal-Wallis test assessed differences in gut flora composition, while LEfSe analysis identified significant flora. Spearman correlation analysis examined the relationship between differential flora and BMD, and PICRUSt predicted pathways involved in OP.

Results

Significant differences in microbial composition were found between the two groups. Klebsiella, Escherichia-Shigella, and Akkermansia were biomarkers in OP patients, with Faecalibacterium in the healthy group. Akkermansia abundance negatively correlated with lumbar BMD, while Klebsiella and Escherichia-Shigella negatively correlated with femoral neck and hip BMD. Faecalibacterium showed a positive correlation with BMD. Functional predictions indicated differences in metabolism-related pathways between the groups.

Conclusion

Gut flora differed significantly between OP patients and healthy individuals. Akkermansia, Klebsiella, and Escherichia-Shigella could serve as diagnostic biomarkers for OP, highlighting the potential of gut flora in OP diagnosis and treatment.

Encapsulated lactiplantibacillus plantarum improves Alzheimer's symptoms in APP/PS1 mice

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that can result in neurotoxicity and an imbalance in gut microbiota. Probiotics have been shown to play an important role in regulating the gut microbiota, but their viability and bioactivity are often compromised as they traverse the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing their efficacy and limiting their clinical utility.

RESULTS

In this work, layer-by-layer (LbL) encapsulation technology was used to encapsulate Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LP) to improve the above shortcomings. Studies in APPswe/PS1dE9 (APP/PS1) transgenic mice show that LbL-encapsulated LP ((CS/SP)2-LP) protects LP from gastrointestinal damage while (CS/SP)2-LP treatment It improves brain neuroinflammation and neuronal damage in AD mice, reduces Aβ deposition, improves tau protein phosphorylation levels, and restores intestinal barrier damage in AD mice. In addition, post-synaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95) expression increased in AD mice after treatment, indicating enhanced synaptic plasticity. Fecal metabolomic and microbiological analyzes showed that the disordered intestinal microbiota composition of AD mice was restored and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) levels were significantly increased after (CS/SP)2-LP treatment.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the above evidence suggests that (CS/SP)2-LP can improve AD symptoms by restoring the balance of intestinal microbiota, and (CS/SP)2-LP treatment will provide a new method to improve the symptoms of AD patients.

Hawthorn pectin plays a protective role in myocardial ischaemia by regulating intestinal flora and short chain fatty acids

Studies have shown that there is a close relationship between acute myocardial ischaemia (AMI) and intestinal flora imbalance. And pectin has a protective effect on AMI and regulates intestinal flora. Raw hawthorn pectin from hawthorn (RHP) is high methoxyl pectin, which is able to protect injury induced by AMI. After stir-frying of hawthorn, pectin from stir-fried hawthorn (FHP) transformed to low methoxyl pectin, the protective mechanisms against AMI is not well-understood. In this study, the protective effects of RHP and FHP against AMI rats were explored. The results revealed that FHP regulated myocardial enzymes including CK, CK-MB and CTn-1, oxidative stress-related indicator SOD more significantly than RHP. According to the determination of proportion of different kinds of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and abundance of microbiota producing SCFAs, it was speculated that RHP and FHP were fermented by these microbiota. RHP increased the proportion of acetic acid and butyric acid, while FHP increased the proportion of acetic acid in feces. Pretreatment with RHP and FHP enriched the beneficial microbiota and maintained the levels of SCFAs, which significantly increased after modeling. These results revealed that RHP and FHP played a protective role in myocardial ischaemia by regulating intestinal flora and SCFAs.

Gastrointestinal metabolism of Astragalus membranaceus polysaccharides and its related hypoglycemic mechanism based on gut microbial transformation

Astragalus membranaceus polysaccharides (AMP) was reported to exhibit hypoglycemic potential in diabetic host. However, the metabolic fate of AMP in gastrointestinal tract and its underlying hypoglycemic mechanisms remained unclear. Our current study aimed to reveal the structure alteration of AMP in gastrointestinal tract and its hypoglycemic mechanism from the perspective of microbial transformation. Caco-2 monolayer cell model revealed that AMP exhibited poor intestinal absorption. The in-vitro digestion and fermentation study revealed that AMP remained intact after gastrointestinal digestion while it could be degraded and utilized by gut microbiota with increased SCFA formation and decreased levels of all the monosaccharides in AMP except for mannose. Additionally, diversity of gut microbiota was improved with the increased abundance of Dubosiella and Monoglobus and decreased abundance of Escherichia-Shigella and Acinetobacter after fermentation of AMP. Further hypoglycemic mechanism study for the first time revealed that both AMP and its potential microbial metabolites, SCFA salt mixture, could enhance intestinal integrity significantly on LPS induced Caco-2 cell model, while only SCFA salt mixture rather than AMP could significantly stimulate GLP-1 secretion in NCI-H716 cell model possibly via promoting GPCR43 expression. Such findings provided insights into the hypoglycemic mechanism of AMP from the perspective of microbial transformation.

Glucose Metabolism-Modifying Natural Materials for Potential Feed Additive Development

Glucose, a primary energy source derived from animals' feed ration, is crucial for their growth, production performance, and health. However, challenges such as metabolic stress, oxidative stress, inflammation, and gut microbiota disruption during animal production practices can potentially impair animal glucose metabolism pathways. Phytochemicals, probiotics, prebiotics, and trace minerals are known to change the molecular pathway of insulin-dependent glucose metabolism and improve glucose uptake in rodent and cell models. These compounds, commonly used as animal feed additives, have been well studied for their ability to promote various aspects of growth and health. However, their specific effects on glucose uptake modulation have not been thoroughly explored. This article focuses on glucose metabolism is on discovering alternative non-pharmacological treatments for diabetes in humans, which could have significant implications for developing feed additives that enhance animal performance by promoting insulin-dependent glucose metabolism. This article also aims to provide information about natural materials that impact glucose uptake and to explore their potential use as non-antibiotic feed additives to promote animal health and production. Further exploration of this topic and the materials involved could provide a basis for new product development and innovation in animal nutrition.

Persistence and Sexual Dimorphism of Gut Dysbiosis and Pathobiome after Sepsis and Trauma

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the persistence of intestinal microbiome dysbiosis and gut-plasma metabolomic perturbations following severe trauma or sepsis weeks after admission in patients experiencing chronic critical illness (CCI).

SUMMARY

Trauma and sepsis can lead to gut dysbiosis and alterations in the plasma and fecal metabolome. However, the impact of these perturbations and correlations between gut dysbiosis and the plasma metabolome in chronic critical illness have not been studied.

METHODS

A prospective observational cohort study was performed with healthy subjects, severe trauma patients, and patients with sepsis residing in an intensive care unit for 2 to 3 weeks. A high-throughput multi-omics approach was utilized to evaluate the gut microbial and gut-plasma metabolite responses in critically ill trauma and sepsis patients 14 to 21 days after intensive care unit admission.

RESULTS

Patients in the sepsis and trauma cohorts demonstrated strikingly depleted gut microbiome diversity, with significant alterations and specific pathobiome patterns in the microbiota composition compared to healthy subjects. Further subgroup analyses based on sex revealed resistance to changes in microbiome diversity among female trauma patients compared to healthy counterparts. Sex--specific changes in fecal metabolites were also observed after trauma and sepsis, while plasma metabolite changes were similar in both males and females.

CONCLUSIONS

Dysbiosis induced by trauma and sepsis persists up to 14 to 21 days after onset and is sex-specific, underscoring the implication of pathobiome and entero-septic microbial-metabolite perturbations in post-sepsis and posttrauma chronic critical illness. This indicates resilience to infection or injury in females' microbiome and should inform and facilitate future precision/personalized medicine strategies in the intensive care unit.

Wuliangye strong aroma baijiu promotes intestinal homeostasis by improving gut microbiota and regulating intestinal stem cell proliferation and differentiation

BACKGROUND

Wuliangye strong aroma baijiu (hereafter, Wuliangye baijiu) is a traditional Chinese grain liquor containing short-chain fatty acids, ethyl caproate, ethyl lactate, other trace components, and a large proportion of ethanol. The effects of Wuliangye baijiu on intestinal stem cells and intestinal epithelial development have not been elucidated. Here, the role of Wuliangye baijiu in intestinal epithelial regeneration and gut microbiota modulation was investigated by administering a Lieber-DeCarli chronic ethanol liquid diet in a mouse model to mimic long-term (8 weeks') light/moderate alcohol consumption (1.6 g kg-1 day-1) in healthy human adults.

RESULTS

Wuliangye baijiu promoted colonic crypt proliferation in mice. According to immunofluorescence and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses, compared with the ethanol-only treatment, Wuliangye baijiu increased the number of intestinal stem cells and goblet cells and the expression of enteroendocrine cell differentiation markers in the mouse colon. Furthermore, gut microbiota analysis showed an increase in the relative abundance of microbiota related to intestinal homeostasis following Wuliangye baijiu administration. Notably, increased abundance of Bacteroidota, Faecalibaculum, Lachnospiraceae, and Blautia may play an essential role in promoting stem-cell-mediated intestinal epithelial development and maintaining intestinal homeostasis.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, these findings suggest that Wuliangye baijiu can be used to regulate intestinal stem cell proliferation and differentiation in mice and to alter gut microbiota distributions, thereby promoting intestinal homeostasis. This research elucidates the mechanism by which Wuliangye baijiu promotes intestinal health. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Ecosystemic Approach to Understanding Gut Microbiome-Mediated Prevention of Colorectal Cancer

Humans and their associated microorganisms coexist in complex symbiotic relationships. Continuously advancing research is demonstrating the crucial role of host-associated microbiota in the pathophysiology and etiology of disease and in mediating the prevention thereof. As an exemplar, the gut microbiota, especially colonic bacteria, have been extensively studied in colorectal cancer (CRC), and the growing body of evidence establishes new oncomicrobes and their oncometabolites associated with the initiation and promotion of carcinogenesis. Herein, we discuss the importance of approaching the gut microbiome as an ecosystem rather than an assortment of individual factors, especially in the context of cancer prevention. Furthermore, we argue that a dietary pattern effectively drives multiple nodes of the gut microbial ecosystem toward disease- or health-promoting qualities. In the modern circumstances of excessive consumption of ultraprocessed and animal-based foods and concomitant escalation of chronic disease burden worldwide, we focus on whole food-derived dietary fiber as a key to establishing a health-promoting eubiosis in the gut.

Bioactive Polysaccharides from Gracilaria lemaneiformis: Preparation, Structures, and Therapeutic Insights

Gracilaria lamaneiformis, a red seaweed, is an abundant source of bioactive polysaccharides with significant health-promoting properties. Nevertheless, the broad application of G. lamaneiformis in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical sectors remains constrained due to the absence of comprehensive data. This review provides a detailed examination of the preparation methods, structural characteristics, and biological activities of G. lamaneiformis polysaccharides (GLPs). We explore both conventional and advanced extraction techniques, highlighting the efficiency and yield improvements achieved through methods such as microwave-, ultrasonic-, and enzyme-assisted extraction. The structural elucidation of GLPs using modern analytical techniques, including high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, is discussed, providing comprehensive insights into their molecular composition and configuration. Furthermore, we critically evaluate the diverse biological activities of GLPs, including their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and gut microbiota modulation properties. This review underscores the therapeutic potential of GLPs and suggests future research directions to fully harness their health benefits.

Tongbian formula alleviates slow transit constipation by increasing intestinal butyric acid to activate the 5-HT signaling

Slow transit constipation (STC) is a long-lasting and prevalent intestinal condition, marked by hard, dry feces. The primary cause of STC may be attributed to an imbalance in the gut's microbial community and alterations in its metabolic byproducts. Tongbian formula (TB), a traditional Chinese medicinal formula, has been used to treat STC and shows a great effect on relieving constipation. The role of TB in regulating intestinal microbiota has not been fully elucidated. Herein, we investigated the potential effect of TB on gut microbiota and further explored the potential mechanism behind its effects. Our study demonstrated that TB significantly increased fecal water content and intestinal ink propulsion rate in loperamide (Lope)-induced STC rats. 5-HT signaling was suppressed in STC colon tissue, and the abundance of butyric acid (BA) in colonic contents was significantly down-regulated after Lope treatment. Notably, TB administration led to the restoration of microbial dysbiosis and the up-regulation of BA content, subsequently activating 5-HT signaling pathways. When BA was combined with a tryptophan hydroxylase-1 (TPH1) inhibitor, which is crucial for 5-HT synthesis, its therapeutic efficacy for treating STC was compromised. TB alleviates STC by reversing the intestinal microbiota imbalance and activating the 5-HT signaling in the colon through increasing BA levels. These findings suggest that TB is an ideal candidate for STC treatment.

Association of short-chain fatty acids and the gut microbiome with type 2 diabetes: Evidence from the Henan Rural Cohort

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Human studies about short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), the gut microbiome, and Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are limited. Here we explored the association between SCFAs and T2DM and the effects of gut microbial diversity on glucose status in rural populations.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We performed a cross-sectional study from the Henan Rural Cohort and collected stool samples. Gut microbiota composition and faecal SCFA concentrations were measured by 16S rRNA and GC-MS. The population was divided based on the tertiles of SCFAs, and logistic regression models assessed the relationship between SCFAs and T2DM. Generalized linear models tested the interactions between SCFAs and gut microbial diversity on glucose indicators (glucose, HbAlc and insulin). Compared to the lowest tertile of total SCFA, acetate and butyrate, the highest tertile exhibited lower T2DM prevalence, with ORs and 95% CIs of 0.291 (0.085-0.991), 0.160 (0.044-0.574) and 0.171 (0.047-0.620), respectively. Restricted cubic spline demonstrated an approximately inverse S-shaped association. We also noted interactions of the ACE index with the highest tertile of valerate on glucose levels (P-interaction = 0.022) and the Shannon index with the middle tertile of butyrate on insulin levels (P-interaction = 0.034). Genus Prevotella_9 and Odoribacter were inversely correlated with T2DM, and the genus Blautia was positively associated with T2DM. These bacteria are common SCFA-producing members.

CONCLUSIONS

Inverse S-shaped associations between SCFAs (total SCFA, acetate, and butyrate) and T2DM were observed. Valerate and butyrate modify glucose status with increasing gut microbial diversity.

Wheat germ supplementation has modest effects on gut health markers but improves glucose homeostasis markers in adults classified as overweight: A randomized controlled pilot study

Wheat germ (WG), a by-product of flour milling, is rich in bioactive substances that may help improve health complications associated with increased adiposity. This study investigated the effects of WG on gut health, metabolic, and inflammatory markers in adults classified as overweight. We hypothesized that WG, because of its many bioactive components, would improve gut health and metabolic, and inflammatory markers in overweight adults. Forty adults (18-45 years old) and with a body mass index between 25 and 30 kg/m2 participated in this single-blinded randomized controlled pilot study. Participants consumed the study supplements containing 30 g of either cornmeal (control, CL) or WG daily for 4 weeks. Primary outcome variables were gut health markers including gut microbiota, gut integrity markers, and fecal short-chain fatty acids, whereas secondary outcome variables included metabolic and inflammatory parameters assessed at baseline and at the end of supplementation. Thirty-nine participants (n = 19 and 20 for CL and WG group, respectively) completed the study. The genus Faecalibacterium was significantly higher in the WG group compared to CL post-supplementation but no significant changes in other gut health markers, short-chain fatty acids, inflammatory markers, and lipid profiles were observed. Compared with baseline, WG improved markers of glucose homeostasis including insulin (P = .02), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (P = .03), glycated hemoglobin (P = .07), and the pro-inflammatory adipokine, resistin (P = .04). However, these parameters after intervention were not different with control. Our findings suggest that WG supplementation have modest effects on gut health but may provide an economical option for individuals to improve glycemic control.

The branching ratio of enzymatically synthesized α-glucans impacts microbiome and metabolic outcomes of in vitro fecal fermentation

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impacts of enzymatically synthesized α-glucans possessing α-1,4- and α-1,6-glucose linkages, and varying in branching ratio, on colonic microbiota composition and metabolic function. Four different α-glucans varying in branching ratio were synthesized by amylosucrase from Neisseria polysaccharea and glycogen branching enzyme from Rhodothermus obamensis. The branching ratios were found to range from 0 % to 2.8 % using GC/MS. In vitro fecal fermentation analyses (n = 8) revealed that the branching ratio dictates the short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) generation by fecal microbiota. Specifically, slightly branched (0.49 %) α-glucan resulted in generation of significantly (P < 0.05) higher amounts of propionate, compared to more-branched counterparts. In addition, the amount of butyrate generated from this α-glucan was statistically (P > 0.05) indistinguishable than those observed in resistant starches. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that enzymatically synthesized α-glucans stimulated Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcus related OTUs. Overall, the results demonstrated metabolic function of colonic microbiota can be manipulated by altering the branching ratio of enzymatically synthesized α-glucans, providing insights into specific structure-function relationships between dietary fibers and the colonic microbiome. Furthermore, the slightly branched α-glucans could be used as functional carbohydrates to stimulate the beneficial microbiota and SCFAs in the colon.

Effects of fucoidan and synbiotics supplementation during bismuth quadruple therapy of Helicobacter pylori infection on gut microbial homeostasis: an open-label, randomized clinical trial

Background

The eradication regimen for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection can induce gut dysbiosis. In this open-label, prospective, and randomized clinical trial, we aimed to assess the effects of fucoidan supplementation on the eradication rate and gut microbial homeostasis in the context of quadruple therapy, as well as to investigate the combined effects of fucoidan and synbiotics supplementations.

Methods

Eighty patients with H. pylori infection were enrolled and randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups: the QT (a 2-week quadruple therapy alone), QF (quadruple therapy plus a 6-week fucoidan supplementation), QS (quadruple therapy plus a 6-week synbiotics supplementation), and QFS (quadruple therapy with a 6-week fucoidan and synbiotics supplementation), with 20 patients in each group. The QT regimen included rabeprazole, minocycline, amoxicillin, and bismuth potassium citrate. The synbiotics supplementation contained three strains of Bifidobacterium, three strains of Lactobacillus, along with three types of dietary fiber. All of the patients underwent 13C-urea breath test (13C-UBT) at baseline and at the end of the 6th week after the initiation of the interventions. Fresh fecal samples were collected at baseline and at the end of the 6th week for gut microbiota analysis via 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

The eradication rates among the four groups showed no significant difference. In the QT group, a significant reduction in α-diversity of gut microbiota diversity and a substantial shift in microbial composition were observed, particularly an increase in Escherichia-Shigella and a decrease in the abundance of genera from the Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae families. The Simpson index was significantly higher in the QF group than in the QT group. Neither the QS nor QFS groups exhibited significant changes in α-diversity or β-diversity. The QFS group was the only one that did not show a significant increase in the relative abundance of Escherichia-Shigella, and the relative abundance of Klebsiella significantly decreased in this group.

Conclusion

The current study provided supporting evidence for the positive role of fucoidan and synbiotics supplementation in the gut microbiota. The combined use of fucoidan and synbioticss might be a promising adjuvant regimen to mitigate gut dysbiosis during H. pylori eradication therapy.

Dietary tryptophan improves growth and intestinal health by promoting the secretion of intestinal β-defensins against enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli F4 in weaned piglets

Adequate dietary L-tryptophan (Trp) governs intestinal homeostasis in piglets. However, the defensive role of Trp in the diet against enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli F4 (K88) in pigs is still poorly understood. Here, sixty (6.15 ± 1.52 kg, 24-day-old, Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) weaned piglets were used for an E. coli F4 attack test in a 2 × 2 factorial design. The growth (ADG, ADFI, GH), immune factors (IL-10, IgA, IgG, IgM), Trp metabolite 5-HT, intestinal morphology (jejunal and colonic VH), mRNA expression of β-defensins (jejunal BD-127, BD-119, ileal BD-1, BD-127), and abundance of beneficial microorganisms in the colon (Prevotella 9, Lactobacillus, Phascolarctobacterium, Faecalibacterium) were higher in the piglets in the HT (High Trp) and HTK (High Trp, K88) groups than in the LT (Low Trp) and LTK (Low Trp, K88) groups (P<.05), while FCR, diarrhea rate, diarrhea index, serum Trp, Kyn, IDO, D-LA, ET, and abundance of harmful microorganisms in the colon (Spirochaetes, Fusobacteria, Prevotella, Christensenellaceae R7) were lower in the HT and HTK groups than in the LT and LTK groups (P<.05). High Trp reduced the expression of virulence genes (K88 and LT) after E. coli F4 attack (P<.05). The IL-6, TNF-α was lower in the HTK group than in the LT, LTK group (P<.05). In short, a diet containing 0.35% Trp protected piglets from enterotoxigenic E. coli F4 (K88) via Trp metabolism promoting BD expression in the intestinal mucosa, which improved growth and intestinal health.

Effect of a Higher-Protein Nut versus Higher-Carbohydrate Cereal Enriched Diet on the Gut Microbiomes of Chinese Participants with Overweight and Normoglycaemia or Prediabetes in the Tū Ora Study

Global increases in metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes (T2D), especially within Asian populations, highlight the need for novel approaches to dietary intervention. The Tū Ora study previously evaluated the effects on metabolic health of including a nut product into the diet of a New Zealand cohort of Chinese participants with overweight and normoglycaemia or prediabetes through a 12-week randomised, parallel-group clinical trial. In this current study, we compared the impact of this higher-protein nut bar (HP-NB) versus a higher-carbohydrate cereal bar (HC-CB) on the faecal microbiome by employing both 16S rRNA gene amplicon and shotgun metagenomic sequencing of pre- and post-intervention pairs from 84 participants. Despite the higher fibre, protein, and unsaturated fat content of nuts, there was little difference between dietary groups in gut microbiome composition or functional potential, with the bacterial phylum Firmicutes dominating irrespective of diet. The lack of observed change suggests the dietary impact of the bars may have been insufficient to affect the gut microbiome. Manipulating the interplay between the diet, microbiome, and metabolic health may require a more substantial and/or prolonged dietary perturbation to generate an impactful modification of the gut ecosystem and its functional potential to aid in T2D risk reduction.

Intestinal Targeted Nanogel with Broad-Spectrum Autonomous ROS Scavenging Performance for Enhancing the Bioactivity of trans-Resveratrol

Introduction

To improve the bioavailability of trans-resveratrol (trans-Res), it is commonly co-delivered with antioxidant bioactives using a complex synthetic intestinal targeted carrier, however, which makes practical application challenging.

Methods

A nanogel (Ngel), as broad-spectrum autonomous ROS scavenger, was prepared using selenized thiolated sodium alginate (TSA-Se) and crosslinked with calcium lactate (CL) for loading trans-Res to obtain Ngel@Res, which maintained spherical morphology in the upper digestive tract but broke down in the lower digestive tract, resulting in trans-Res release.

Results

Under protection of Ngel, trans-Res showed enhanced stability and broad-spectrum ROS scavenging activity. The synergistic mucoadhesion of Ngel prolonged the retention time of trans-Res in the intestine. Ngel and Ngel@Res increased the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans to 26.00 ± 2.17 and 26.00 ± 4.27 days by enhancing the activity of antioxidases, upregulating the expression of daf-16, sod-5 and skn-1, while downregulating the expression of daf-2 and age-1.

Conclusion

This readily available, intestinal targeted selenized alginate-based nanogel effectively improves the bioactivity of trans-Res.

Inhibitory mechanisms of decoy receptor 3 in cecal ligation and puncture-induced sepsis

Despite its high mortality, specific and effective drugs for sepsis are lacking. Decoy receptor 3 (DcR3) is a potential biomarker for the progression of inflammatory diseases. The recombinant human DcR3-Fc chimera protein (DcR3.Fc) suppresses inflammatory responses in mice with sepsis, which is critical for improving survival. The Fc region can exert detrimental effects on the patient, and endogenous peptides are highly conducive to clinical application. However, the mechanisms underlying the effects of DcR3 on sepsis are unknown. Herein, we aimed to demonstrate that DcR3 may be beneficial in treating sepsis and investigated its mechanism of action. Recombinant DcR3 was obtained in vitro. Postoperative DcR3 treatment was performed in mouse models of lipopolysaccharide- and cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis, and their underlying molecular mechanisms were explored. DcR3 inhibited sustained excessive inflammation in vitro, increased the survival rate, reduced the proinflammatory cytokine levels, changed the circulating immune cell composition, regulated the gut microbiota, and induced short-chain fatty acid synthesis in vivo. Thus, DcR3 protects against CLP-induced sepsis by inhibiting the inflammatory response and apoptosis. Our study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms associated with the protective effects of DcR3 against sepsis, paving the way for future clinical studies.

IMPORTANCE

Sepsis affects millions of hospitalized patients worldwide each year, but there are no sepsis-specific drugs, which makes sepsis therapies urgently needed. Suppression of excessive inflammatory responses is important for improving the survival of patients with sepsis. Our results demonstrate that DcR3 ameliorates sepsis in mice by attenuating systematic inflammation and modulating gut microbiota, and unveil the molecular mechanism underlying its anti-inflammatory effect.

The ileal, total tract and postileal digestibility of compound feeds either rich in wheat or rye in an ileo-caecal fistulated minipig model

Environmental issues and concerns about animal welfare display current challenges in animal husbandry and feeding. Rye, a cereal that has scarcely been used in animal feed in recent decades, could help address some of the challenges in pig feeding as a climate friendly and health promoting feed ingredient. Distinct constituents of rye - especially its non-starch-polysaccharides (NSP) - are fermented in the large intestine while short chain fatty acids (SCFA) are produced in that process. This can promote gut health and the feeling of satiety in pigs. To examine the site of the digestion of rye within the digestive tract in comparison to wheat as a widely used ingredient in pig diets, two diets with high shares of either wheat or rye (each 69.0%) were fed to ileo-caecally fistulated, adult minipigs. Ileal digesta and faeces were collected and ileal, total tract and postileal digestibility rates were calculated. In the apparent ileal digestibility (AID), significant differences were only found for organic matter (OM) and Nitrogen-free extract (NfE) with lower values for the rye-rich diets (77.2 ± 2.00 vs. 73.8 ± 2.01% and 79.8 ± 2.56 vs. 75.3 ± 2.61%, respectively). These differences could not be recovered for the total tract digestibility (ATTD - 90.2 ± 2.16 vs. 89.8 ± 1.94% and 93.0 ± 1.69 vs. 92.8 ± 1.37%, respectively), resulting in an elevated postileal digestibility which was significant for NfE (13.2 ± 2.42 vs. 17.5 ± 2.77%). Therefore, rye can be used to promote hindgut fill and fermentation in pig feeding, especially in restrictively fed animals such as pregnant sows.

Alterations in gut microbiome associated with severity of atopic dermatitis in infants

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis (AD) often arises in infancy, and gut microbial dysbiosis is associated with the development of AD. However, less is known about specific changes in early-life gut microbiome associated with AD and AD severity. This study aims to reveal the gut microbial composition and function profiles associated with the severity of AD in infants.

METHODS

Sixty-two infants (mean [SD] age, 4.7[1.9] months) with different severities of AD were enrolled and divided into three groups (mild, moderate and severe) according to the Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) index. The profiles of gut microbial composition and function were analysed by sequencing 16S ribosomal RNA amplicons. Quality of life on children and the family was evaluated using published questionnaires.

RESULTS

Decreased levels of Clostridium sensu stricto, Collinsella and increased level of Parabacteroides presented in the severe AD group compared with the mild AD group after adjusting potential confounders (p < 0.05). There were strong positive correlations between the Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) index and the relative abundance (RA) of Bacteroides and functional pathways for metabolism of sphingolipids and glycosphingolipids (p < 0.05). The SCORAD index was negatively correlated with the RA of Clostridium sensu stricto (p < 0.05), and was also positively correlated with the index of quality of life on children and the family (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Discrepancies in gut microbial composition and functional pathways were observed in infants with mild-to-severe AD. Alterations in butyrate-producing bacteria (Clostridium sensu stricto), sphingolipid-producing bacteria (Parabacteroides, Bacteroides), and related functional pathways were associated with the severity of AD infants.

Functional fractions of Astragalus polysaccharides as a potential prebiotic to alleviate ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestine that is significantly influenced by an imbalance in the gut microbiota. Astragalus membranaceus, particularly its polysaccharide components, has shown therapeutic potential for the treatment of UC, although the specific active constituents and their mechanistic pathways remain to be fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated two molecular weight fractions of Astragalus polysaccharides (APS), APS1 (Mw < 10 kDa) and APS2 (10 kDa < Mw < 50 kDa), isolated by ultrafiltration, focusing on their prebiotic effects, effects on UC, and the underlying mechanism. Our results showed that both APS1 and APS2 exhibit prebiotic properties, with APS1 significantly outperforming APS2 in ameliorating UC symptoms. APS1 significantly attenuated weight loss and UC manifestations, reduced colonic pathology, and improved intestinal mucosal barrier integrity. In addition, APS1 significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines in the serum and colonic tissue, and downregulated colonic chemokines. Furthermore, APS1 ameliorated dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS)-induced intestinal dysbiosis by promoting the growth of beneficial microbes and inhibiting the proliferation of potential pathogens, leading to a significant increase in short-chain fatty acids. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of APS1 as a novel prebiotic for the prevention and treatment of UC.

Chronic consumption of orange juice modifies urinary excretion of flavanone gut-derived metabolites through gut microbiota modulation

The metabolism and absorption of citrus flavanones are intrinsically linked to the gut microbiota, creating a bidirectional relationship where these compounds influence the microbiome, and in turn, the microbiota affects their metabolism. This study evaluates the effect of acute and chronic consumption of orange juice (OJ) on the urinary excretion of gut-derived flavanone metabolites and the gut microbiota. Health volunteers ingested 500 mL of OJ for 60 days in a single-arm human intervention study. Blood and feces were collected at baseline and after 60 days, with an additional 24-hour urine collection after a single dose on day 1 and day 63. LC-MS/MS analyzed urinary flavanone metabolites, while 16S rRNA sequencing characterized gut microbiota. Total urinary hesperetin conjugates excretion significantly decreased over 60 days, while gut-derived total phenolic acids, particularly three hydroxybenzoic acids, increased. Moreover, the heterogeneity of the total amount of flavanone conjugates, initially categorizing individuals into high-, medium- and low- urinary excretor profiles, shifted towards medium-excretor, except for five individuals who remained as low-excretors. This alteration was accompanied by a decrease in intestinal β-glucosidase activity and a shift in the relative abundance of specific genera, such as decreases in Blautia, Eubacterium hallii, Anaerostipes, and Fusicatenibacter, among which, Blautia was associated with higher urinary flavanone conjugates excretion. Conversely, an increase in Prevotella was observed. In summary, chronic OJ consumption induced transient changes in gut microbiota and altered the metabolism of citrus flavanones, leading to distinct urinary excretion profiles of flavanone metabolites.

Fermented dietary fiber from soy sauce residue exerts antidiabetic effects through regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and gut microbiota-SCFAs-GPRs axis in type 2 diabetic mellitus mice

The gut plays a crucial role in the development and progression of metabolic disorders, particularly in relation to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). While a high intake of dietary fiber is inversely associated with the risk of T2DM, the specific effects of various dietary fibers on T2DM are not fully understood. This study investigated the anti-diabetic properties of fermented dietary fiber (FDF) derived from soy sauce residue in T2DM mice, demonstrating its ability to lower blood glucose levels and ameliorate insulin resistance. Our findings revealed that FDF could enhance hepatic glucose metabolism via the IRS-1/PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Additionally, the anti-diabetic effect of FDF was correlated with alterations in gut microbiota composition in T2DM mice, promoting a healthier gut environment. Specifically, FDF increased the abundance of beneficial flora such as Dubosiella, Butyricimonas, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, Lactobacillus and Osillibacter, while reducing harmful bacteria including Bilophila, Parabacteroides and Enterorhabdus. Further analysis of microbial metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and bile acids (BAs), provided evidence of FDF's regulatory effects on cecal contents in T2DM mice. Importantly, FDF treatment significantly restored the G-protein-coupled receptors (GPRs) expression in the colon of T2DM mice. In conclusion, our study suggests that the anti-diabetic effects of FDF are associated with the regulation of both the liver-gut axis and the gut microbiota-SCFAs-GPRs axis.

Comparative proteomics analysis of Shiraia bambusicola revealed a variety of regulatory systems on conidiospore formation

Shiraia bambusicola is a typical parasitic medicinal fungus of the family Shiraiaceae. The fruiting bodies of S. bambusicola cannot be cultivated artificially, and active substances can be effectively produced via fermentation. The mechanism of conidia production is a research hotspot in the industrial utilization and growth development of S. bambusicola. This study is the first to systematically study the proteomics of conidiospore formation from S. bambusicola. Near-spherical conidia were observed and identified by internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence detection. A total of 2,840 proteins were identified and 1,976 proteins were quantified in the mycelia and conidia of S. bambusicola. Compared with mycelia, 445 proteins were differentially expressed in the conidia of S. bambusicola, with 165 proteins being upregulated and 280 proteins being downregulated. The Gene Ontology (GO) annotation results of differential proteomics showed that the biological process of S. bambusicola sporulation is complex. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) metabolic pathway analysis showed that the differential proteins were mainly involved in starch and sucrose metabolism, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, microbial metabolism in diverse environments, and other processes. Our in-depth speculative analysis showed that proteins related to carbohydrate metabolism were differentially expressed in conidiospore formation of S. bambusicola, suggesting the involvement of saccharides. Conidiation may increase the synthesis and release of ethanol and polysaccharide proteins such as glycoside hydrolase (GH), suppress host immunity, and facilitate S. bambusicola to infect and colonize of the host. In-depth analysis of differential proteomes will help reveal the molecular mechanism underlying the conidiospore formation of S. bambusicola, which has strong theoretical and practical significance.