Evidence for lack of absorption of soy isoflavone glycosides in humans, supporting the crucial role of intestinal metabolism for bioavailability

Association of genetic variants in soy isoflavones metabolism-related genes with decreased lung cancer risk

BACKGROUND

Soy isoflavones have been reported to exhibit anti-tumor effects. We hypothesize that genetic variants in soy isoflavone metabolism-related genes are associated with the risk of lung cancer.

METHODS

A two-stage case-control study design was conducted in this study. The discovery stage included 300 lung cancer cases and 600 healthy controls to evaluate the association of candidate genetic variants with lung cancer risk. The validation stage involved 1200 cases and 1200 controls to validate the associations found. Furthermore, qPCR was performed to assess the mRNA expression levels of different genotypes of the SNP. ELISA was used to explore the association between genotype and soy isoflavone levels, as well as the association between soy isoflavone levels and lung cancer risk.

RESULTS

A nonlinear association was observed between plasma soy isoflavone levels and lung cancer risk, with higher soy isoflavone levels associated with lower lung cancer risk (P < 0.001). The two-stage case-control study identified that UGT1A1 rs3755319 A > C was associated with decreased lung cancer risk (Recessive model: adjusted OR = 0.69, 95 %CI = 0.57-0.84, P < 0.001). Moreover, eQTL analysis showed that the expression level of UGT1A1 in the rs3755319 CC genotype was lower than in the AA + AC genotype (P < 0.05). The plasma concentration of soy isoflavones in the rs3755319 CC genotype was higher than in the AA + AC genotype (P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

We identified a potentially functional SNP, UGT1A1 rs3755319 A > C, as being associated with decreased lung cancer risk. Further experiments will be needed to explore the mechanisms underlying the observed associations.

Dynamic changes on sensory property, nutritional quality and metabolic profiles of green kernel black beans during Eurotium cristatum-based solid-state fermentation

Eurotium cristatum, a unique probiotic in Fu brick tea, is widely used in food processing to enhance added values. Here, green kernel black beans (GKBBs) were solid-fermented with E. cristatum and dynamic changes in flavour, chemical composition and metabolites during fermentation were investigated. As results, E. cristatum fermentation altered aroma profiles and sensory attributes of GKBBs, especially reduced sourness. After fermentation, total polyphenolic and flavonoid contents in GKBBs were elevated, while polysaccharides, soluble proteins and short-chain fatty acids contents were decreased. E. cristatum fermentation also induced biotransformation of glycosidic isoflavones into sapogenic isoflavones. During fermentation, dynamic changes in levels of 17 amino acids were observed, in which 3 branched-chain amino acids were increased. Non-targeted metabolomics identified 51 differential compounds and 10 related metabolic pathways involved in E. cristatum fermentation of GKBBs. This study lays foundation for the development of green kernel black bean-based functional food products with E. cristatum fermentation.

Study on biotransformation and absorption of genistin based on fecal microbiota and Caco-2 cell

Introduction

Genistin, as a kind of natural isoflavone glycoside, has good biological activity, and its weak absorption makes it closely related to intestinal flora. However, the role of the intestinal flora is still unclear and whether the metabolites produced by the intestinal flora are absorbed systemically is also variable.

Methods

Genistin was fermented for 24 h based on fecal bacteria fermentation technology. The components were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed by HPLC and UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap Mass spectrometry. The composition of intestinal flora in fermentation samples from fecal bacteria was detected by 16S rRNA sequencing. Five representative probiotics were cultured in vitro and fermented with genistin to determine similarities and differences in genistin metabolites by different bacteria at different times. Finally, the absorption results of metabolites by fermentation were verified by a Caco-2 cell monolayer.

Results

The HPLC results of fecal fermentation showed that genistein levels increased from 0.0139 ± 0.0057 mg/mL to 0.0426 ± 0.0251 mg/mL and two new metabolites were produced. A total of 46 metabolites following fecal fermentation were identified, resulting from various biotransformation reaction products, such as decarbonylation, hydroxylation, and methylation. Simultaneously, the 16S rRNA results showed that the intestinal flora changed significantly before and after fermentation and that the intestinal microorganisms in the control (Con) group and the fermentation (Fer) group showed a significant separation trend. Five genera, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Parabacteroides, Sutterella, and Dorea, were considered the dominant flora for genistin fermentation. The qualitative results of fermentation of genistin by five probiotics at different times showed that there were significant differences in small molecule metabolites by fermentation of different bacteria. Meanwhile, most metabolites could be identified following fecal bacteria fermentation, which verified the importance of the dominant bacteria in the feces for the biotransformation of components. Finally, the absorption results of the metabolites based on the Caco-2 cell monolayer showed that 14 metabolites could be absorbed into the circulation in vivo through the mesentery.

Discussion

The small molecule metabolites of genistin by fermentation of fecal bacteria can be well absorbed systemically by the body. These studies provide a reference value for explaining the transformation and absorption of flavonoid glycosides in the intestine.

Effect of Isoflavone on Muscle Atrophy in Ovariectomized Mice

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia, characterized by muscle mass decline due to aging or other causes, is exacerbated by decreased estrogen levels after menopause in women. Isoflavones, a class of flavonoids acting on estrogen receptors, may have beneficial effects on metabolic disorders. We examined these effects in ovariectomized mice fed a high-fat, high-sucrose diet (HFHSD).

METHODS

At 7 weeks old, female C57BL6/J mice (18-20 g, n = 12) underwent bilateral ovariectomy (OVX), and were then fed a high-fat, high-sucrose diet starting at 8 weeks of age. Half of the mice received isoflavone water (0.1%). Metabolic analyses, including glucose and insulin tolerance tests, were conducted. Muscle analysis involved grip strength assays, next-generation sequencing, quantitative RT-PCR, and western blotting of skeletal muscle after euthanizing the mice at 14 weeks old. Additionally, 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis of the gut microbiota was performed.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that isoflavone administration did not affect body weight, glucose tolerance, or lipid metabolism. In contrast, isoflavone-treated mice had higher grip strength. Gene expression analysis of the soleus muscle revealed decreased Trim63 expression, and western blotting showed inactivation of muscle-specific RING finger protein 1 in isoflavone-treated mice. Gut microbiota analysis indicated higher Bacteroidetes and lower Firmicutes abundance in the isoflavone group, along with increased microbiota diversity. Gene sets related to TNF-α signaling via NF-κB and unfolded protein response were negatively associated with isoflavones.

CONCLUSIONS

Isoflavone intake alters gut microbiota and increases muscle strength, suggesting a potential role in improving sarcopenia in menopausal women.

Metabolomics and gut microbiota analysis reveal the differential efficacy of areca nut and charred areca nut in treating constipation

Background

Areca nut (AN) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine used for centuries to treat gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Charred AN (CAN) is a processed product of AN with similar therapeutic effects. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic mechanisms of AN and CAN for constipation via metabolomics and gut microbiota analysis.

Methods

In this study, the rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 6): control, constipation model, positive drug, AN treatment, and CAN treatment groups. Constipation was induced by intragastric administration of loperamide hydrochloride, followed by 14-day treatment with mosapride, AN, or CAN. The efficacy difference between AN and CAN was assessed by evaluating the weight gain, fecal water content, GI transit rate, colonic histopathology, serum levels of GI hormones, gut microbiota, and fecal metabolites.

Results

The results demonstrated that both AN and CAN could alleviate loperamide-induced constipation. Furthermore, they significantly elevated the serum levels of motilin, vasoactive intestinal peptide, substance P, and acetylcholine. 16S rRNA analysis revealed that AN regulated the relative abundance of Bacillus, UCG-005, norank_f_Muribaculaceae, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, and Ruminococcus, whereas CAN modulate the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Bacillus, norank_f_Muribaculaceae, Ruminococcus, unclassified_f_Oscillospiraceae, and unclassified_f_Prevotellaceae. Moreover, the metabolic profile of AN- and CAN-treated rats was also different, where AN treatment involved pathways of citrate cycle (TCA) and tyrosine, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolisms. Whereas CAN treatment involved pathways of steroid and primary bile acid biosynthesis, as well as pyrimidine and purine metabolisms. Spearman correlation analysis indicated a close relationship between gut microbiota and fecal metabolites.

Conclusion

In summary, this study revealed that AN may protect GI mucosa, enhance GI motility, and alleviate constipation symptoms by regulating the relative abundance of specific gut microbiota (Bacillus, UCG-005, norank_f_Muribaculaceae, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, Ruminococcus) as well as citrate cycle or tyrosine, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolic pathways. Furthermore, CAN was observed to promote gastric emptying and intestinal propulsion, thereby alleviating constipation, by modulating the relative abundance of specific gut microbiota (Lactobacillus, Bacillus, norank_f_Muribaculaceae, Ruminococcus, unclassified_f_Oscillospiraceae, unclassified_f_Prevotellaceae) as well as steroid and primary bile acid biosynthesis, as well as pyrimidine and purine metabolic pathways.

Daidzein Inhibits Muscle Atrophy by Suppressing Inflammatory Cytokine- and Muscle Atrophy-Related Gene Expression

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenic obesity, which is associated with a poorer prognosis than that of sarcopenia alone, may be positively affected by soy isoflavones, known inhibitors of muscle atrophy. Herein, we hypothesize that these compounds may prevent sarcopenic obesity by upregulating the gut metabolites with anti-inflammatory effects.

METHODS

To explore the effects of soy isoflavones on sarcopenic obesity and its mechanisms, we employed both in vivo and in vitro experiments. Mice were fed a high-fat, high-sucrose diet with or without soy isoflavone supplementation. Additionally, the mouse C2C12 myotube cells were treated with palmitic acid and daidzein in vitro.

RESULTS

The isoflavone considerably reduced muscle atrophy and the expression of the muscle atrophy genes in the treated group compared to the control group (Fbxo32, p = 0.0012; Trim63, p < 0.0001; Foxo1, p < 0.0001; Tnfa, p = 0.1343). Elevated levels of daidzein were found in the muscles and feces of the experimental group compared to the control group (feces, p = 0.0122; muscle, p = 0.0020). The real-time PCR results demonstrated that the daidzein decreased the expression of the palmitate-induced inflammation and muscle atrophy genes in the C2C12 myotube cells (Tnfa, p = 0.0201; Il6, p = 0.0008; Fbxo32, p < 0.0001; Hdac4, p = 0.0002; Trim63, p = 0.0114; Foxo1, p < 0.0001). Additionally, it reduced the palmitate-induced protein expression related to the muscle atrophy in the C2C12 myotube cells (Foxo1, p = 0.0078; MuRF1, p = 0.0119).

CONCLUSIONS

The daidzein suppressed inflammatory cytokine- and muscle atrophy-related gene expression in the C2C12 myotubes, thereby inhibiting muscle atrophy.

Dietary Isoflavones Intake and Gastric Cancer

Dietary isoflavones have been associated with a lower risk of gastric cancer (GC), but the evidence for this association is still limited. We investigated the association between isoflavone intake and GC risk using data from a case-control study including 230 incident, histologically confirmed GC cases and 547 controls with acute, non-neoplastic conditions. Dietary information was collected through a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and isoflavone intake was estimated using ad hoc databases. We estimated the odds ratios (OR) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) of GC using logistic regression models, including terms for total energy intake and other major confounders. The OR for the highest versus the lowest tertile of intake was 0.65 (95%CI = 0.44-0.97, p for trend = 0.04) for daidzein, 0.75 (95%CI = 0.54-1.11, p for trend = 0.15) for genistein, and 0.66 (95%CI = 0.45-0.99, p for trend = 0.05) for total isoflavones. Stratified analyses by sex, age, education, and smoking showed no heterogeneity. These findings indicate a favorable effect of dietary isoflavones on GC.

Machine Learning-Based Analysis Reveals Triterpene Saponins and Their Aglycones in Cimicifuga racemosa as Critical Mediators of AMPK Activation

Cimicifuga racemosa (CR) extracts contain diverse constituents such as saponins. These saponins, which act as a defense against herbivores and pathogens also show promise in treating human conditions such as heart failure, pain, hypercholesterolemia, cancer, and inflammation. Some of these effects are mediated by activating AMP-dependent protein kinase (AMPK). Therefore, comprehensive screening for activating constituents in a CR extract is highly desirable. Employing machine learning (ML) techniques such as Deep Neural Networks (DNN), Logistic Regression Classification (LRC), and Random Forest Classification (RFC) with molecular fingerprint MACCS descriptors, 95 CR constituents were classified. Calibration involved 50 randomly chosen positive and negative controls. LRC achieved the highest overall test accuracy (90.2%), but DNN and RFC surpassed it in precision, sensitivity, specificity, and ROC AUC. All CR constituents were predicted as activators, except for three non-triterpene compounds. The validity of these classifications was supported by good calibration, with misclassifications ranging from 3% to 17% across the various models. High sensitivity (84.5-87.2%) and specificity (84.1-91.4%) suggest suitability for screening. The results demonstrate the potential of triterpene saponins and aglycones in activating AMP-dependent protein kinase (AMPK), providing the rationale for further clinical exploration of CR extracts in metabolic pathway-related conditions.

Importance of Considering Fed-State Gastrointestinal Physiology in Predicting the Reabsorption of Enterohepatic Circulation of Drugs

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to develop a simulation model for the pharmacokinetics (PK) of drugs undergoing enterohepatic circulation (EHC) with consideration to the environment in the gastrointestinal tract in the fed state in humans. The investigation particularly focused on the necessity of compensating for the permeability rate constant in the reabsorption process in consideration of drug entrapment in bile micelles.

METHODS

Meloxicam and ezetimibe were used as model drugs. The extent of the entrapment of drugs inside bile micelles was evaluated using the solubility ratio of Fed State Simulated Intestinal Fluid version 2 (FeSSIF-V2) to Fasted State Simulated Intestinal Fluid version 2 (FaSSIF-V2). Prediction accuracy was evaluated using the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) value, calculated from the observed and predicted oral PK profiles.

RESULTS

The solubilization of ezetimibe by bile micelles was clearly observed while that of meloxicam was not. Assuming that only drugs in the free fraction of micelles permeate through the intestinal membrane, PK simulation for ezetimibe was performed in both scenarios with and without compensation by the permeation rate constant. The MAPE value of Zetia® tablet, containing ezetimibe, was lower with compensation than without compensation. By contrast, Mobic® tablet, containing meloxicam, showed a relatively low MAPE value even without compensation.

CONCLUSION

For drugs which undergo EHC and can be solubilized by bile micelles, compensating for the permeation rate constant in the reabsorption process based on the free fraction ratio appears an important factor in increasing the accuracy of PK profile prediction.

From Gut to Hormones: Unraveling the Role of Gut Microbiota in (Phyto)Estrogen Modulation in Health and Disease

The human gut microbiota regulates estrogen metabolism through the "estrobolome," the collection of bacterial genes that encode enzymes like β-glucuronidases and β-glucosidases. These enzymes deconjugate and reactivate estrogen, influencing circulating levels. The estrobolome mediates the enterohepatic circulation and bioavailability of estrogen. Alterations in gut microbiota composition and estrobolome function have been associated with estrogen-related diseases like breast cancer, enometrial cancer, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). This is likely due to dysregulated estrogen signaling partly contributed by the microbial impacts on estrogen metabolism. Dietary phytoestrogens also undergo bacterial metabolism into active metabolites like equol, which binds estrogen receptors and exhibits higher estrogenic potency than its precursor daidzein. However, the ability to produce equol varies across populations, depending on the presence of specific gut microbes. Characterizing the estrobolome and equol-producing genes across populations can provide microbiome-based biomarkers. Further research is needed to investigate specific components of the estrobolome, phytoestrogen-microbiota interactions, and mechanisms linking dysbiosis to estrogen-related pathology. However, current evidence suggests that the gut microbiota is an integral regulator of estrogen status with clinical relevance to women's health and hormonal disorders.

Gut microbial metabolites of dietary polyphenols and their potential role in human health and diseases

Polyphenols contribute as one of the largest groups of compounds among all the phytochemicals. Common sources of dietary polyphenols are vegetables, fruits, berries, cereals, whole grains, etc. Owing to their original form, they are difficult to get absorbed. Dietary polyphenols after undergoing gut microbial metabolism form bioaccessible and effective metabolites. Polyphenols and derived metabolites are all together a diversified group of compounds exhibiting pharmacological activities against cardiovascular, cancer, oxidative stress, inflammatory, and bacterial diseases. The formed metabolites are sometimes even more bioavailable and efficacious than the parent polyphenols. Studies on gut microbial metabolism of dietary polyphenols have introduced new approach for the use of polyphenol-rich food in the form of supplementary diet. This review provides insights on various aspects including classification of polyphenols, gut microbiota-mediated metabolism of polyphenols, chemistry of polyphenol metabolism, and pharmacological actions of gut microbial metabolites of polyphenols. It also suggests the use of polyphenols from marine source for the microbial metabolism studies. Till date, gut microbial metabolism of polyphenols from terrestrial sources is extensively studied as compared to marine polyphenols. Marine ecosystem is a profound but partially explored source of phytoconstituents. Among them, edible seaweeds contain high concentration of polyphenols, especially phlorotannins. Hence, microbial metabolism studies of seaweeds can unravel the pharmacological potential of marine polyphenol-derived metabolites.

Anti-Menopausal Effect of Soybean Germ Extract and Lactobacillus gasseri in the Ovariectomized Rat Model

Menopause is a significant phase in a woman's life. Menopausal symptoms can affect overall well-being and quality of life. Conventionally, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is used to alleviate menopausal symptoms; however, depending on the conditions, HRT may lead to side effects, necessitating the exploration of alternative therapies with fewer side effects. In this study, we investigated the effects of a combination of soybean germ extract (S30) containing 30% (w/w) isoflavone and a probiotic, Lactobacillus gasseri (LGA1), on menopausal conditions in an ovariectomized (OVX) rat model. We evaluated the impact of S30+LGA on body weight, estrogen markers, uterine and bone health, vascular markers, and neurotransmitter levels. The results revealed that treatment with S30+LGA1 significantly improved body weight and uterine and bone health. Moreover, S30+LGA1 demonstrated promising effects on lipid profile, liver function, and vascular markers and positively impacted serotonin and norepinephrine levels, indicating potential mood-enhancing effects. In conclusion, S30+LGA1, possessing anti-menopausal effects in vitro and in vivo, can be recommended as a soy-based diet, which offers various health benefits, especially for menopausal women.

Arecoline alleviated loperamide induced constipation by regulating gut microbes and the expression of colonic genome

This study aimed to investigate the effects of arecoline on constipation by intervening at different times to explore its preventive and therapeutic effects. Symptoms related to constipation, gut microbes, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) content in the cecum, and gene expression in the colon were measured to examine the effect of arecoline on relieving constipation. The results showed that arecoline intervention alleviated loperamide-induced constipation, as evidenced by significantly shortened intestinal transit time, increased fecal water content, improved small bowel propulsion, and increased defecation frequency. In addition, arecoline significantly reduced the levels of gastrointestinal regulatory peptides such as somatostatin and vasoactive intestinal peptide in the serum, thereby regulating intestinal peristalsis. Histopathological analysis showed that arecoline ameliorated intestinal injury caused by constipation. Gut microbial analysis indicated that arecoline altered the taxonomic composition and levels of its metabolite SCFAs in the gut microbiota. Furthermore, the colonic transcriptome results indicated that genes expression related to intestinal diseases were significantly down-regulated by arecoline intervention. In conclusion, the results of the correlation analysis propose a possible mechanism of arecoline in alleviating constipation by modulating the gut microbes and their metabolites and regulating the gut genome.

The Different Ways Multi-Strain Probiotics with Different Ratios of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus Relieve Constipation Induced by Loperamide in Mice

Constipation is currently one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders, and its causes are diverse. Multi-strain probiotics are often considered a more effective treatment than single-strain probiotics. In this study, a constipation model was constructed using loperamide hydrochloride to evaluate the ability of a multi-strain probiotic combination of four different ratios of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus to regulate intestinal flora, relieve constipation, and explore the initial mechanism in mice. After four weeks of probiotic intervention, BM1, BM2, and PB2 effectively relieved constipation; however, the pathways involved were different. The Bifidobacteria-dominated formulations BM1 and BM2 mainly changed the composition and structure of the intestinal flora and significantly decreased the relative abundance of Tyzzerella, Enterorhabdus, Faecalibaculum, Gordonibacter, and Mucispirillum in stool; increased the relative abundance of Parabacteroides and the content of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in stool; restored motilin (MTL) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) levels; and downregulated interleukin 6 (IL-6) and IL-8 levels in serum. This repaired the inflammatory response caused by constipation. Finally, it promoted peristalsis of the gastrointestinal tract, increasing stool water content, and relieving constipation. While Lactobacillus-dominated formula PB2 mainly restored the levels of serum neurotransmitters (MTL, SP (substance P), VIP and PYY (Peptide YY)) and inflammatory factors (IL-1, IL-6 and IL-8), it significantly decreased the relative abundance of Tyzzerella, Enterorhabdus, Faecalibaculum, Gordonibacter and Mucispirillum in stool; it then increased acetic acid content, thereby reducing the level of inflammation and changing stool properties and gastrointestinal motility.

Antioxidative Properties of Fermented Soymilk Using Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP95

In recent times, there has been a growing consumer interest in replacing animal foods with alternative plant-based products. Starting from this assumption, for its functional properties, soymilk fermented with lactic acid bacteria is gaining an important position in the food industry. In the present study, soymilk was fermented with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP95 at 37 °C, without the use of stabilizers as well as thickeners and acidity regulators. We evaluated the antioxidant capacity of fermented soymilk along with its enrichment in aglycone isoflavones. The conversion of isoflavone glucosides to aglycones (genistein, glycitein, and daidzein) was analyzed together with antioxidant activity (ABTS) measurements, lipid peroxidation measurements obtained by a thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) assay, and apparent viscosity measurements. From these investigations, soymilk fermentation using Lp. plantarum LP95 as a starter significantly increased isoflavones' transformation to their aglycone forms. The content of daidzein, glycitein, and genistein increased after 24 h of fermentation, reaching levels of 48.45 ± 1.30, 5.10 ± 0.16, and 56.35 ± 1.02 μmol/100 g of dry weight, respectively. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity increased after 6 h with a reduction in MDA (malondialdehyde). The apparent viscosity was found to increase after 24 h of fermentation, while it slightly decreased, starting from 21 days of storage. Based on this evidence, Lp. plantarum LP95 appears to be a promising candidate as a starter for fermented soymilk production.

Multidirectional Effects of Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.) in Support of Menopause Therapy

Red clover is a raw material of interest primarily due to its isoflavone content. However, other groups of compounds may affect the pleiotropic biological effects of this raw material. It is used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, but the fact that there are many varieties of this plant that can be grown makes it necessary to compare the biological activity and phytochemical composition of this plant. Also of interest are the differences between the leaves and flowers of the plant. The aim of this study was to evaluate the properties of the leaves and flowers of six clover varieties-'Tenia', 'Atlantis', 'Milena', 'Magellan', 'Lemmon' and 'Lucrum'-with respect to their ability to inhibit α-glucosidase, lipase, collagenase and antioxidant activity. Therefore, the contents of polyphenols and the four main isoflavones-genistein, daidzein, biochanin and formononetin-were assessed. The study was complemented by testing for permeability through a model membrane system (PAMPA). Principal component analysis (PCA) identified a relationship between activity and the content of active compounds. It was concluded that antioxidant activity, inhibition of glucosidase, collagenase and lipase are not correlated with isoflavone content. A higher content of total polyphenols (TPC) was determined in the flowers of red clover while a higher content of isoflavones was determined in the leaves of almost every variety. The exception is the 'Lemmon' variety, characterized by high isoflavone content and high activity in the tests conducted.

The Role of Choline, Soy Isoflavones, and Probiotics as Adjuvant Treatments in the Prevention and Management of NAFLD in Postmenopausal Women

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent condition among postmenopausal women that can lead to severe liver dysfunction and increased mortality. In recent years, research has focused on identifying potential lifestyle dietary interventions that may prevent or treat NAFLD in this population. Due to the complex and multifactorial nature of NAFLD in postmenopausal women, the disease can present as different subtypes, with varying levels of clinical presentation and variable treatment responses. By recognizing the significant heterogeneity of NAFLD in postmenopausal women, it may be possible to identify specific subsets of individuals who may benefit from targeted nutritional interventions. The purpose of this review was to examine the current evidence supporting the role of three specific nutritional factors-choline, soy isoflavones, and probiotics-as potential nutritional adjuvants in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD in postmenopausal women. There is promising evidence supporting the potential benefits of these nutritional factors for NAFLD prevention and treatment, particularly in postmenopausal women, and further research is warranted to confirm their effectiveness in alleviating hepatic steatosis in this population.

A review on applications of β-glucosidase in food, brewery, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries

β-glucosidases hydrolyse glycosidic bonds to release non-reducing terminal glucosyl residues from glycosides and oligosaccharides via catalytic mechanisms. It is very well known that the β-glucosidase enzyme is used in biorefineries for cellulose degradation, where β-glucosidases is the rate-limiting enzyme for the final glucose production from cellobiose. The β-glucosidase enzyme is used as a catalyst in other industrial sectors, including pharmaceuticals, breweries, dairy, and food processing. With the aid of β-glucosidase enzymes, cyanogenic glycosides and plant glycosides are transformed into sugar moiety and aglycones. These aglycone compounds are employed as aromatic compounds in the food processing and brewing industries. They are also used as medications and dietary supplements based on their pharmacological qualities. Applications of aglycones and the microbiological sources of β-glucosidase in aglycone production have been discussed in this review.

Fermented soy beverages as vehicle of probiotic lactobacilli strains and source of bioactive isoflavones: A potential double functional effect

Soy beverages can be a source of bioactive isoflavones, with potential human health benefits. In this work, the suitability of three Lacticaseibacillus and three Bifidobacterium probiotic strains as functional starters for soy beverage fermentation were evaluated, alongside with the effect of refrigerated storage on the viability of the strains and the isoflavone composition of the fermented beverages. The three bifidobacteria strains suffered a decrease in their viability during refrigeration and only Bifidobacterium breve INIA P734 produced high concentrations of bioactive isoflavones. Meanwhile, L. rhamnosus GG and L. rhamnosus INIA P344 produced high levels of aglycones and, with L. paracasei INIA P272, maintained their viability during the refrigeration period, constituting promising starters to obtain functional soy beverages that could gather the benefits of the bioactive isoflavone aglycones and the probiotic strains. Moreover, the three lactobacilli caused an increase in the antioxidant capacity of the fermented beverages, which was maintained over the refrigerated storage.

Roles of genistein in learning and memory during aging and neurological disorders

Genistein (GEN) is a non-steroidal phytoestrogen that belongs to the isoflavone class. It is abundantly found in soy. Soy and its products are used as food components in many countries including India. The present review is focused to address roles of GEN in brain functions in the context of learning and memory as a function of aging and neurological disorders. Memory decline is one of the most disabling features observed during normal aging and age-associated neurodegenerative disorders namely Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), etc. Anatomical, physiological, biochemical and molecular changes in the brain with advancement of age and pathological conditions lead to decline of cognitive functions. GEN is chemically comparable to estradiol and binds to estrogen receptors (ERs). GEN acts through ERs and mimics estrogen action. After binding to ERs, GEN regulates a plethora of brain functions including learning and memory; however detailed study still remains elusive. Due to the neuroprotective, anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, GEN is used to restore or improve memory functions in different animal models and humans. The present review may be helpful to understand roles of GEN in learning and memory during aging and neurological disorders, its direction of research and therapeutic perspectives.

Soy yoghurts produced with efficient GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid)-producing Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ameliorate hyperglycaemia and re-establish gut microbiota in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice

Soy yogurt has been gaining popularity as a vegan food produced simply by soymilk fermentation with proper microbial manipulation. It is well known that soy containing rich isoflavones is beneficial for ameliorating hyperglycaemic disorders. Soy fermentation can improve the bioavailability of these precious nutrients. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum is one of the most abundant and frequently isolated species in soymilk manufacturing. Soy yogurts produced with efficient GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid)-producing L. plantarum and the deglycosylating activity of L. plantarum were functionally assessed in a STZ-induced hyperglycaemic mouse model. Hyperglycaemic mice were assigned into groups and treated with daily gavage of either dH₂O, soymilk, soy yoghurts produced with high GABA-producing L. plantarum GA30 (LPGA30), low GABA-producing L. plantarum PV30 (LPPV30) or the soy yoghurts fortified with additional 30 mg g^-1 GABA counterparts (GA + GABA and PV + GABA groups). Except the dH₂O group, all soy yoghurt groups retained body weight with improved glucose homeostasis, glucose tolerance test results and renal tissue integrity, while the soymilk group shows partial benefits. Plasma GABA concentrations in the daily soy yoghurt-supplemented groups (LPGA30 and LPPV30) plateaued at 5 times higher than the average 0.5 μM in dH₂O and soymilk groups, and their GABA-fortified soy yoghurt counterparts (GA + GABA and PV + GABA) groups were accountable for the restored plasma insulin levels. Gut microbiome analysis revealed dysbiosis in STZ-induced hyperglycemic mice of the dH₂O group with breached out facultative anaerobic Proteobacteria over the normal phyla Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. Restored gut microbiota with transitionally populated Actinobacteria was demonstrated in the LPGA30 group but not in the LPPV30 group. Soy yoghurts produced with efficient GABA-producing L. plantarum GA30 showed exceptional benefits in modulating gut microbiota with dominant genera of Enterococcus, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, and the presence of some minor beneficial microbial communities including Akkermansia muciniphila, Butyricicoccus pullicaecorum, Corynebacterium spp. and Adlercreutzia spp. Efficient GABA-producing L. plantarum GA30 fermented soymilk to produce soy yoghurts that exhibit profound synergistic protections over rich soy isoflavones to restore pancreatic β-cell functions for insulin production in STZ-induced hyperglycaemic mice. Additionally, the probiotic role of GABA-producing L. plantarum in re-establishing healthy gut microbiota in hyperglycaemic mice implies a possible symbiotic relationship, awaiting further exploration.

Gut microbial beta-glucuronidase: a vital regulator in female estrogen metabolism

A growing amount of evidence has supported that gut microbiota plays a vital role in the reproductive endocrine system throughout a woman's whole life, and gut microbial β-glucuronidase (gmGUS) is a key factor in regulating host estrogen metabolism. Moreover, estrogen levels also influence the composition as well as the diversity of gut microbiota. In normal condition, the gmGUS-estrogen crosstalk maintains body homeostasis of physiological estrogen level. Once this homeostasis is broken, the estrogen metabolism will be disturbed, resulting in estrogen-related diseases, such as gynecological cancers, menopausal syndrome, etc. together with gut microbial dysbiosis, which may accelerate these pathological processes. In this review, we highlight the regulatory role of gmGUS on the physical estrogen metabolism and estrogen-related diseases, summarize the present evidence of the interaction between gmGUS and estrogen metabolism, and unwrap the potential mechanisms behind them. Finally, gmGUS may become a potential biomarker for early diagnosis of estrogen-induced diseases. Regulating gmGUS activity or transplanting gmGUS-producing microbes shows promise for treating estrogen-related diseases.

Understanding the Phytoestrogen Genistein Actions on Breast Cancer: Insights on Estrogen Receptor Equivalence, Pleiotropic Essence and Emerging Paradigms in Bioavailability Modulation

Prevalent as a major phenolic ingredient of soy and soy products, genistein is recognized as an eminent phytoestrogen owing to its interacting ability with estrogen receptors (ERs). The metabolic conversion of plant-derived genistin to genistein by gut microbes and intestinal enzymes enhances its absorption at intestinal pH of ~7.5-7.8. Genistein interferes in breast cancer (BC) development via pleiotropic actions on cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, and apoptosis. Though multiple investigations have demonstrated genistein intake-driven reduced BC risk, similar efficacy has not been replicated in clinical trials. Furthermore, multiple studies have structurally and functionally equated genistein extents with 17-β-estradiol (E2), the most available physiological estrogen in females, culminating in aggravated BC growth. Of note, both genistein and E2 function via interacting with ERs (ERα and ERβ). However, although E2 shows almost equal affinity towards both ERα and ERβ, genistein shows more affinity towards ERβ than ERα. Our cautious literature survey revealed typical intake mode, ER expression pattern and the ratio of ERα and ERβ, transactivators/ regulators of ERα and ERβ expression and activities, patient age, and menopausal status as decisive factors affecting genistein BC activities. Of further interest are the mechanisms by which genistein inhibits triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs), which lack ERs, progesterone receptors (PRs), and human epidermal growth factor receptors (HER2). Herein, we attempt to understand the dosage-specific genistein actions in BC cells and patients with an insight into its better response via derivative development, nanocarrier-assisted, and combinatorial delivery with chemotherapeutic drugs.

Dietary Isoflavone Aglycons from Soy Germ Pasta Improves Reproductive Performance of Aging Hens and Lowers Cholesterol Levels of Egg Yolk

This study compared dietary isoflavone aglycones with the glycoside conjugates in a novel model of postmenopausal status, the aging domestic hen (Gallus gallus domesticus), to determine the effects on reproductive performance, cholesterol levels, and nutritional quality of eggs laid. Hens, 18 mo old, were randomized into four groups (n = 10/group) and fed for 28 d a conventional poultry corn/soymeal diet (Control), or diets supplemented with isoflavone glycosides from soy germ (diet A), isoflavone aglycons from a soy germ pasta (diet B), or conventional pasta lacking isoflavones (diet C). The egg-laying rate was recorded daily, plasma isoflavones and cholesterol were measured, and the nutritional composition of the eggs was determined. Egg-laying declined over a 4-week period in hens in the Control group and those fed isoflavone glycosides (diets A and C), whereas hens fed isoflavone aglycons (diet B) significantly increased their egg-laying efficiency. The total egg count and egg yield were significantly higher in hens fed isoflavone aglycons, and their plasma cholesterol concentrations were lower and the eggs laid had a 30% lower yolk cholesterol content. None of these effects were observed with diets containing similar levels of isoflavone glycosides. These studies recapitulate the clinical effects of soy germ pasta enriched with isoflavone aglycons and lend support to the greater efficacy of a diet rich in isoflavone aglycons.

Tissue distribution and integrated pharmacokinetic properties of major effective constituents of oral Gegen-Qinlian decoction in mice

Gegen-Qinlian decoction (GQD) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula. GQD is effective against colon or liver-related diseases including ulcerative colitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver, and type 2 diabetes. In this study, a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method was developed, validated, and then applied to reveal the tissue distribution and integrated pharmacokinetic properties of major effective constituents of oral GQD in mice. The established method was quick, sensitive, and accurate enough to analyze GQD constituents in plasma and tissue homogenate samples quantitatively. According to their concentrations in the portal vein, systemic circulation, liver and colon samples of the mice after oral administration of GQD, the concentration-time curves of the constituents were respectively plotted. The results showed that daidzein, baicalin, and baicalein had relatively high exposure levels in the livers, while puerarin, berberine, epiberberine, coptisine, palmatine, jatrorrhizine, magnoflorine, glycyrrhizic acid, and glycyrrhetinic acid were enriched in the colons. Given that these constituents have significant biological activity, they could be regarded as the major effective constituents of GQD in treating colon or liver-related diseases, respectively. In addition, the integrated pharmacokinetic properties of GQD were studied. The GQD “integrated constituent” reached peak concentration at 4.0 h in the portal vein, the systemic circulation, the livers, and the colons, with half-lives of 1.5–4.1 h and mean retention time of 4.5–6.3 h, respectively. Furthermore, the concentration of the GQD “integrated constituent” in the colons was approximately 10 times higher than that in the livers, both of which were much higher than that in the systemic circulation, indicating its accumulation in these tissues, especially in the colons. In conclusion, the tissue distribution and integrated pharmacokinetic properties of oral GQD were revealed in the study. The results of the tissue distribution study would contribute to identifying the major target tissues and effective constituents of GQD, while the results of the integrated pharmacokinetic study would help to explain the pharmacokinetic properties of oral GQD as a whole.

Interactions between dietary flavonoids and the gut microbiome: a comprehensive review

Flavonoids are natural polyphenol secondary metabolites that are widely produced in planta. Flavonoids are ubiquities in human dietary intake and exhibit a myriad of health benefits. Flavonoids-induced biological activities are strongly influenced by their in situ availability in the human GI tract, as well as the levels of which are modulated by interaction with the gut bacteria. As such, assessing flavonoids–microbiome interactions is considered a key to understand their physiological activities. Here, we review the interaction between the various classes of dietary flavonoids (flavonols, flavones, flavanones, isoflavones, flavan-3-ols and anthocyanins) and gut microbiota. We aim to provide a holistic overview of the nature and identity of flavonoids on diet and highlight how flavonoids chemical structure, metabolism and impact on humans and their microbiomes are interconnected. Emphasis is placed on how flavonoids and their biotransformation products affect gut microbiota population, influence gut homoeostasis and induce measurable physiological changes and biological benefits.

The Role of Soy Isoflavones in the Prevention of Bone Loss in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

The aim of the report was to determine the effects of soy isoflavones on lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip bone mineral density (BMD) in menopausal women. MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for articles published in English during 1995–2019. Studies were identified and reviewed for inclusion and exclusion eligibility. Weighted mean differences (WMD) were calculated for each study and were pooled by using the random effects model. Eighteen randomized controlled trials were selected for meta-analysis. Different types of soy phytoestrogens, i.e., genistein extracts, soy isoflavones extracts, soy protein isolate, and foods containing diverse amounts of isoflavones were used in the studies. The analysis showed that daily intake of 106 (range, 40–300) mg of isoflavones for 6–24 months moderately but statistically significantly positively affects BMD, compared with controls: lumbar spine WMD = 1.63 (95% CI: 0.51 to 2.75)%, p = 0004; femoral neck WMD = 1.87 (95% CI: 0.14 to 3.60)%, p = 0.034; and total hip WMD = 0.39 (95% CI: 0.08 to 0.69)%, p = 0.013. Subgroups analyses indicated that the varying effects of isoflavones on BMD across the trials might be associated with intervention duration, racial diversity (Caucasian, Asian), time after menopause, form of supplements (especially genistein), and dose of isoflavones. Our review and meta-analysis suggest that soy isoflavones are effective in slowing down bone loss after menopause.

Oxidative stress-mediated memory impairment during aging and its therapeutic intervention by natural bioactive compounds

Aging and associated neurodegenerative diseases are accompanied by the decline of several brain functions including cognitive abilities. Progressive deleterious changes at biochemical and physiological levels lead to the generation of oxidative stress, accumulation of protein aggregates, mitochondrial dysfunctions, loss of synaptic connections, and ultimately neurodegeneration and cognitive decline during aging. Oxidative stress that arises due to an imbalance between the rates of production and elimination of free radicles is the key factor for age-associated neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Due to high energy demand, the brain is more susceptible to free radicals-mediated damages as they oxidize lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, thereby causing an imbalance in the homeostasis of the aging brain. Animal, as well as human subject studies, showed that with almost no or few side effects, dietary interventions and plant-derived bioactive compounds could be beneficial to recovering the memory or delaying the onset of memory impairment. As the plant-derived bioactive compounds have antioxidative properties, several of them were used to recover the oxidative stress-mediated changes in the aging brain. In the present article, we review different aspects of oxidative stress-mediated cognitive change during aging and its therapeutic intervention by natural bioactive compounds.

Effect of food processing on antioxidants, their bioavailability and potential relevance to human health

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Processing alters the amount, matrix interaction, and structure of antioxidants.

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It is not easy to dissociate processing effects from food matrix effects.

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It is still difficult to make general statements on the effects of processing on bioavailability.

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Facilitated release by heat, pressure, etc. contributes to increased bioaccessibility.

It has long been recognized that the antioxidants present in fresh plant materials may be very different to those we ingest via our foods. This is often due to the use of food processing strategies involving thermal/non-thermal treatments. Current research mostly focuses on determining what is present in vegetative starting materials; how this is altered during processing; how this influences activity in the gut and following uptake into bloodstream; and which in vivo physiological effects this may have on human body. Having a better understanding of these different steps and their importance in a health-and-nutrition-context will place us in a better position to breed for improved crop varieties and to advise the food industry on how to optimize processing strategies to enhance biochemical composition of processed foods. This review provides an overview of what is currently known about the influence which food processing treatments can have on antioxidants and gives some pointers as to their potential relevance.

Circulating gut microbiota-related metabolites influence endothelium plaque lesion formation in ApoE knockout rats

Atherosclerosis is the main cause of cardiac and peripheral vessel infarction in developed countries. Recent studies have established that gut microbiota and their metabolites play important roles in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The present study aimed to investigate endothelium plaque lesion formation in ApoE-deficient rats fed a normal chow diet under germ-free (GF) and specific-pathogen-free (SPF) conditions at various time points. There was no difference in serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels between SPF-rats and GF-rats. Histological studies revealed that the GF-rats developed endothelium plaques in the aorta from 26 to 52 weeks, but this was not observed in SPF-rats. GF-rat coronary arteries had moderate-to-severe endothelium lesions during this time period, but SPF-rat coronary arteries had only mild lesion formation. Immunohistochemical staining showed higher accumulation of CD68-positive and arginase-negative foamy-like macrophages on the arterial walls of GF-rats, and expression of TNF-α and IL-6 in foam cells was only observed in GF-rats. In addition, microbial metabolites, including equol derivatives, enterolactone derivatives, indole-3-propionate, indole-3-acrylic acid, cholic acid, hippuric acid, and isoquinolone, were significantly higher in the SPF group than in the GF group. In conclusion, our results indicate that gut microbiota may attenuate atherosclerosis development.

In vitro and in silico evaluation of Ononis isoflavonoids as molecules targeting the central nervous system

Isoflavonoids with various structural elements show a promising potential effect on central nervous system activities. Despite their favorable medicinal properties, the pharmacokinetic characteristics of this thoroughly investigated group of natural phenolics have only been described to a limited extent. Regarding the lack of information about the BBB permeability of isoflavones, isoflavanones, and pterocarpans found in Ononis species, the aim of our study was to investigate their physico-chemical properties influencing their absorption and distribution. Furthermore, we aimed to characterize the possible MAO-B inhibiting features of Ononis isoflavonoids in silico. Octanol-water partitioning and BBB-PAMPA permeability of formononetin, calycosin D, onogenin, sativanone, medicarpin and maackiain were assessed for the first time in our study. The log P values ranged from 2.21 to 3.03 and log D^7.4 values from 2.48 to 3.03, respectively, indicating optimal polarity for BBB permeation. The results of PAMPA-BBB expressed as log P_e values fell between -5.60 and -4.45, predicting their good permeation capability as well. The effective permeability values showed structure-dependent differences, indicating that the pterocarpan type skeleton was the most preferred type, followed by isoflavanones, then isoflavones. The methoxy or methylenedioxy substitution of the same skeleton did not influence the permeability significantly, contrary to an additional hydroxyl group. Membrane retention showed a similar structure dependent pattern to that of effective permeability, ranging from 16% to 70%. For the identification of volumes of chemical space related to particular biological activities the ChemGPS-NP framework was used. The MAO-B inhibitory potency and selectivity were also predicted and validated. Based on our results, MAO-B inhibitory potency could be predicted with good precision, but in the case of selectivity, only the direction could be concluded (favors MAO-B or MAO-A), not the magnitude. Our finding reflects that Ononis isoflavonoid aglycones show an excellent fit with the suggested parameters for BBB permeability and this is the first study to confirm the highly favorable position of these natural products for MAO-B inhibition.

The multimodal action of genistein in Alzheimer's and other age-related diseases

Genistein is a phytoestrogen that, due to its structural similarity with estrogen, can both mimic and antagonize estrogen effects. Early analysis proved that at high concentrations, genistein inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation, thereby suggesting an anticancer activity. Since then, many discoveries have identified the genistein mechanism of action, including cell cycle arrest, apoptosis induction, as well as angiogenesis, and metastasis inhibition. In this review, we aim to discuss the multimodal action of genistein as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-amyloid β, and autophagy promoter, which could be responsible for the genistein beneficial effect on Alzheimer's. Furthermore, we pinpoint the main signal transduction pathways that are known to be modulated by genistein. Genistein has thus several beneficial effects in several diseases, many of them associated with age, such as the above mentioned Alzheimer disease. Indeed, the beneficial effects of genistein for health promotion depend on each multimodality. In the context of geroscience, genistein has promising beneficial effects due to its multimodal action to treat age associated-diseases.

Microwave Microfluidic Sensor for Detection of High Equol Concentrations in Aqueous Solution

This paper presents a Peano fractal geometry complementary split ring resonator (PFCSRR) loaded microstrip transmission line with a microfluidic channel for equol (EQ) sensing in a high and wide range of concentrations in aqueous solution. The proposed sensor was designed based on a CSRR loaded microstrip line with a Peano fractal in the center of a CSRR and validated through simulation and experiment. The microfluidic channel was fabricated using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and installed to cover the sensing area. The free space, empty microfluidic channels, deionized (DI) water, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and various concentrations of EQ were measured by a microwave sensor through sample-filled microfluidic channels. Detection of high levels of EQ was in the concentration range of 0.01 mM - 100 mM. The materials under test (MUTs) were measured in the frequency range of 1.0 GHz-3.5 GHz based on the magnitude of the transmission coefficient (S₂₁) and resonance frequency (F_r) at room temperature. The S₂₁ and F_r were recorded and analyzed by logarithmic concentrations of EQ for the determinant of the correlations between EQ concentration and S₂₁ and F_r. Principal component analysis (PCA) and K-means clustering were used to analyze and classify groups of MUTs.

Maximizing the Estrogenic Potential of Soy Isoflavones through the Gut Microbiome: Implication for Cardiometabolic Health in Postmenopausal Women

Soy isoflavones have been suggested as an alternative treatment for managing postmenopausal symptoms and promoting long-term health due to their structural similarity to mammalian estrogen and ability to bind to estrogen receptors. Among all soy isoflavones and their metabolites, (S)-equol is known for having the strongest estrogenic activity. Equol is a metabolite of the soy isoflavone daidzein produced through intestinal bacterial metabolism. However, more than half of the human population is not able to produce equol due to the lack of equol-producing bacteria in their gastrointestinal tract. The interpersonal variations in the gut microbiome complicate the interpretation of data collected from humans. Furthermore, because rodents are efficient equol-producers, translatability between rodent models and humans is challenging. Herein, we first summarized the current knowledge of the microbial conversion of daidzein to equol, its relation to health, and proposed the need for developing model systems by which equol production can be manipulated while controlling other known confounding factors. Determining the necessity of equol-producing capacity within a gut microbial community when consuming soy as a functional ingredient, and identifying strategies to maximize equol production by modulating the gut microbiome, may provide future therapeutic approaches to improve the health of postmenopausal women.

Use of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling to Predict Human Gut Microbial Conversion of Daidzein to S-Equol

A physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was developed for daidzein and its metabolite S-equol. Anaerobic in vitro incubations of pooled fecal samples from S-equol producers and nonproducers allowed definition of the kinetic constants. PBPK model-based predictions for the maximum daidzein plasma concentration (C_max) were comparable to literature data. The predictions also revealed that the C_max of S-equol in producers was only up to 0.22% that of daidzein, indicating that despite its higher estrogenicity, S-equol is likely to contribute to the overall estrogenicity upon human daidzein exposure to a only limited extent. An interspecies comparison between humans and rats revealed that the catalytic efficiency for S-equol formation in rats was 210-fold higher than that of human S-equol producers. The described in vitro-in silico strategy provides a proof-of-principle on how to include microbial metabolism in humans in PBPK modeling as part of the development of new approach methodologies (NAMs).

Impact of Gut Microbiota on the Pharmacokinetics of Glycyrrhizic Acid in Yokukansan, a Kampo Medicine

Individual differences in gut microbiota can affect the pharmacokinetics of drugs. Yokukansan is a traditional Japanese kampo medicine used to treat peripheral symptoms of dementia and delirium. A study examining the pharmacokinetics of the components of yokukansan reported large individual differences in the pharmacokinetics of glycyrrhizic acid (GL). It is known that GL is metabolized by intestinal bacteria to glycyrrhetinic acid (GA), which is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Thus, the gut microbiota may affect GL pharmacokinetics. We aimed to clarify the relationship between the gut microbiota composition and pharmacokinetics of GL in yokukansan. Mice were orally administered yokukansan, following the administration of various antibiotics, and the plasma concentration of GA and composition of gut microbiota were measured. The GA plasma concentration was low in mice treated with amoxicillin and vancomycin. The composition of gut microbiota revealed a different pattern from that of the control group. Mice with low plasma levels of GA had lower levels of the phylum Bacteroides and Firmicutes. Additionally, bacteria, such as those belonging to the genera Parabaceroides, Bacteroides, Ruminococcus and an unknown genus in families Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae, exerted positive correlations between the gene copies and plasma GA levels. These bacteria may contribute to the absorption of GA in the gastrointestinal tract, and multiple bacteria may be involved in GL pharmacokinetics. The pharmacokinetics of GL may be predicted by evaluating the composition of gut bacteria, rather than by evaluating the amount of a single bacterium.

Bifidobacterium breve MCC1274 Supplementation Increased the Plasma Levels of Metabolites with Potential Anti-Oxidative Activity in APP Knock-In Mice

BACKGROUND

We previously reported the effects of a probiotic strain, Bifidobacterium breve MCC1274, in improving cognitive function in preclinical and clinical studies. Recently, we demonstrated that supplementation of this strain led to decreased amyloid-β production, attenuated microglial activation, and suppressed inflammation reaction in the brain of APP knock-in (AppNL - G - F) mice.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we investigated the plasma metabolites to reveal the mechanism of action of this probiotic strain in this Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like model.

METHODS

Three-month-old mice were orally supplemented with B. breve MCC1274 or saline for four months and their plasma metabolites were comprehensively analyzed using CE-FTMS and LC-TOFMS.

RESULTS

Principal component analysis showed a significant difference in the plasma metabolites between the probiotic and control groups (PERMANOVA, p = 0.03). The levels of soy isoflavones (e.g., genistein) and indole derivatives of tryptophan (e.g., 5-methoxyindoleacetic acid), metabolites with potent anti-oxidative activities were significantly increased in the probiotic group. Moreover, there were increased levels of glutathione-related metabolites (e.g., glutathione (GSSG)_divalent, ophthalmic acid) and TCA cycle-related metabolites (e.g., 2-Oxoglutaric acid, succinic acid levels) in the probiotic group. Similar alternations were observed in the wild-type mice by the probiotic supplementation.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the supplementation of B. breve MCC1274 enhanced the bioavailability of potential anti-oxidative metabolites from the gut and addressed critical gaps in our understanding of the gut-brain axis underlying the mechanisms of the probiotic action of this strain in the improvement of cognitive function.

Adlercreutzia hattorii sp. nov., an equol non-producing bacterium isolated from human faeces

Two obligately anaerobic, Gram-stain-positive, rod-shaped bacteria were isolated from faecal samples of healthy humans in Japan. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that these two strains (8CFCBH1^T and 9CBH6) belonged to the genus Adlercreutzia, which is known as an equol-producing bacterium. The closest neighbours of strain 8CFCBH1^T were Adlercreutzia equolifaciens subsp. equolifaciens DSM 19450^T (98.6%), Adlercreutzia equolifaciens subsp. celatus do03^T (98.4%), Adlercreutzia muris WCA-131-CoC-2^T (96.6%), Parvibacter caecicola NR06^T (96.4%), Adlercreutzia caecimuris B7^T (95.3%) and Adlercreutzia mucosicola Mt1B8^T (95.3%). The closest relatives to strain 9CBH6 were A. equolifaciens subsp. equolifaciens DSM 19450^T (99.8%), A. equolifaciens subsp. celatus do03^T (99.6%) and A. muris WCA-131-CoC-2^T (96.8%). Strain 8CFCBH1^T showed 22.3-53.5% digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values with its related species. In addition, the average nucleotide identity (ANI) values between strain 8CFCBH1^T and its related species ranged from 75.4 to 93.3%. On the other hand, strain 9CBH6 was considered as A. equolifaciens based on the dDDH and ANI values (>70% dDDH and >95-96% ANI). Strain 9CBH6 showed daidzein-converting activity, as expected from the result of genome analysis. The genome of strain 8CFCBH1^T lacked four genes involved in equol production. Growing cells of strain 8CFCBH1^T were not capable of converting daidzein. Based on the collected data, strain 8CFCBH1^T represents a novel species in the genus Adlercreutzia, for which the name Adlercreutzia hattorii sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of A. hattorii is 8CFCBH1^T (=JCM 34083^T=DSM 112284^T).

Potential therapeutic interventions of plant-derived isoflavones against acute lung injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening syndrome that possibly leads to high morbidity and mortality as no therapy exists. Several natural ingredients with negligible adverse effects have recently been investigated to possibly inhibit the inflammatory pathways associated with ALI at the molecular level. Isoflavones, as phytoestrogenic compounds, are naturally occurring bioactive compounds that represent the most abundant category of plant polyphenols (Leguminosae family). A broad range of therapeutic activities of isoflavones, including antioxidants, chemopreventive, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic and antibacterial potentials, have been extensively documented in the literature. Our review exclusively focuses on the possible anti-inflammatory, antioxidant role of botanicals'-derived isoflavones against ALI and their immunomodulatory effect in experimentally induced ALI. Despite the limited scope covering their molecular mechanisms, isoflavones substantially contributed to protecting from ALI via inhibiting toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/Myd88/NF-κB pathway and subsequent cytokines, chemokines, and adherent proteins. Nonetheless, future research is suggested to fill the gap in elucidating the protective roles of isoflavones to alleviate ALI concerning antioxidant potentials, inhibition of the inflammatory pathways, and associated molecular mechanisms.

Effects of novel flavonoid-enriched yogurt on the diversity of intestinal microbiota in mice

Soy isoflavone glycoside cannot be effectively absorbed by the human intestinal tract, but probiotics with related hydrolases can transform it into aglycone to promote its absorption. In this study, a novel flavonoid-enriched yogurt was developed using an isolated β-glucosidase-producing strain (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum GY). The flavonoid aglycone-enhanced yogurt was fed to ICR mice for 21 days, and its effects were observed. The yogurt can affect the gut microbial diversity of mice, especially increasing the abundance of Parasutterella, the Bacteroidales S24-7 group, and Phascolarctobacterium in the intestinal tract of mice. Meanwhile, the ratio of Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes in the intestinal tract of mice fed with the flavonoid aglycone-enriched yogurt increased. The difference in the content of butyric acid between the L-GY + IS and the control groups was significant (P < 0.05). Therefore, milk fermentation with β-glucosidase-producing strains is a promising approach for developing flavonoid glycoside-enriched yogurt products.

Dietary synbiotic ameliorates constipation through the modulation of gut microbiota and its metabolic function

The purpose of this study is to investigate the mitigatory effect of a novel synbiotic (SBT) on constipation from the perspective of gut microbiome and metabolome. Here, intake of SBT effectively attenuated diphenoxylate-induced constipation, recuperated colonic epithelial integrity and increased serum levels of gastrointestinal excitatory neurotransmitters (P substance, vasoactive intestinal peptide, motilin, gastrin and serotonin). 16S rRNA sequencing showed that SBT intake rehabilitated the composition and functionality of gut microbiota. Relative abundances of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria including Lactobacillus, Faecalibaculum and Bifidobacterium were elevated by administration of SBT. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis confirmed that fecal concentrations of propionate and butyrate were significantly increased in the rats intervened with SBT. In addition, SBT ingestion reduced the relative levels of opportunistic pathogens, such as Oscillibacter, Parasutterella and Parabacteroides. Microbial functional prediction showed that the relative abundances of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) biosynthesis and arachidonic acid metabolism were downregulated with SBT administration, which were in accordance with the serum metabolomics results. Furthermore, serum levels of LPS, tumour necrosis factor alpha and interleukin 6 were significantly decreased, indicating that SBT supplementation suppressed inflammatory responses. Therefore, this study demonstrated that consumption of SBT ameliorated constipation possibly by regulating gut microbiota, promoting the SCFAs production and inhibiting inflammatory responses in rats. Our study also indicated that SBT may provide a novel alternative strategy for the treatment of constipation clinically in future.

Biocompatible natural deep eutectic solvent-based extraction and cellulolytic enzyme-mediated transformation of Pueraria mirifica isoflavones: a sustainable approach for increasing health-bioactive constituents

The presence of specific gut microflora limits the biotransformation of Pueraria mirifica isoflavone (PMI) glycosides into absorbable aglycones, thus limiting their health benefits. Cellulolytic enzyme-assisted extraction (CAE) potentially solves this issue; however, solvent extraction requires recovery of the hydrophobic products. Here, we established the simultaneous transformation and extraction of PMIs using cellulolytic enzymes and natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs). The NADES compositions were optimized to allow the use of NADESs as CAE media, and the extraction parameters were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal conditions were 14.7% (v/v) choline chloride:propylene glycol (1:2 mol ratio, ChCl:PG) at 56.1 °C for the cellulolytic enzyme (262 mU/mL) reaction in which daidzin and genistin were extracted and wholly transformed to their aglycones daidzein and genistein. The extraction of PMIs using ChCl:PG is more efficient than that using conventional solvents; additionally, biocompatible ChCl:PG enhances cellulolytic enzyme activity, catalyzing the transformation of PMIs into compounds with higher estrogenicity and absorbability.

Using Porcine Jejunum Ex Vivo to Study Absorption and Biotransformation of Natural Products in Plant Extracts: Pueraria lobata as a Case Study

Herbal preparations (HPs) used in folk medicine are complex mixtures of natural products (NPs). Their efficacy in vivo after ingestion depends on the uptake of the active ingredient, and, in some cases, their metabolites, in the gastrointestinal tract. Thus, correlating bioactivities measured in vitro and efficacy in vivo is a challenge. An extract of Pueraria lobata rich in different types of isoflavones was used to evaluate the capacity of viable porcine small intestine ex vivo to elucidate the absorption of HP constituents, and, in some cases, their metabolites. The identification and transport of permeants across the jejunum was monitored by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), combining targeted and untargeted metabolite profiling approaches. It was observed that the C-glycoside isoflavones were stable and crossed the intestinal membrane, while various O-glycoside isoflavones were metabolized into their corresponding aglycones, which were then absorbed. These results are consistent with human data, highlighting the potential of using this approach. A thorough investigation of the impact of absorption and biotransformation was obtained without in vivo studies. The combination of qualitative untargeted and quantitative targeted LC-MS methods effectively monitored a large number of NPs and their metabolites, which is essential for research on HPs.

Soy Isoflavones Inhibit Both GPIb-IX Signaling and αIIbβ3 Outside-In Signaling via 14-3-3ζ in Platelet

Soy diet is thought to help prevent cardiovascular diseases in humans. Isoflavone, which is abundant in soybean and other legumes, has been reported to possess antiplatelet activity and potential antithrombotic effect. Our study aims to elucidate the potential target of soy isoflavone in platelet. The anti-thrombosis formation effect of genistein and daidzein was evaluated in ex vivo perfusion chamber model under low (300 s-1) and high (1800 s-1) shear forces. The effect of genistein and daidzein on platelet aggregation and spreading was evaluated with platelets from both wildtype and GPIbα deficient mice. The interaction of these soy isoflavone with 14-3-3ζ was detected by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and co-immunoprecipitation, and the effect of αIIbβ3-mediated outside-in signaling transduction was evaluated by western blot. We found both genistein and daidzein showed inhibitory effect on thrombosis formation in perfusion chamber, especially under high shear force (1800 s-1). These soy isoflavone interact with 14-3-3ζ and inhibited both GPIb-IX and αIIbβ3-mediated platelet aggregation, integrin-mediated platelet spreading and outside-in signaling transduction. Our findings indicate that 14-3-3ζ is a novel target of genistein and daidzein. 14-3-3ζ, an adaptor protein that regulates both GPIb-IX and αIIbβ3-mediated platelet activation is involved in soy isoflavone mediated platelet inhibition.