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Chen Q, Chen D, Gao X, Jiang Y, Yu T, Jiang L, Tang Y. Association between fecal short-chain fatty acid levels and constipation severity in subjects with slow transit constipation. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 36:394-403. [PMID: 38417059 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We measured the fecal levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in subjects with slow transit constipation (STC) and assessed the correlation between SCFA levels and disease severity as well as quality of life. METHODS We isolated the supernatant from fecal samples of healthy and STC subjects and measured the SCFA levels. To assess the correlation between fecal SCFA levels and disease severity as well as quality of life, we used the Constipation Scoring System, Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptoms, and Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life questionnaires. RESULTS 16 STC subjects and 16 healthy controls were enrolled. STC subjects had lower SCFA levels, but the difference was not statistically significant (475.85 ± 251.68 vs. 639.77 ± 213.97 µg/ml, P = 0.056). Additionally, STC subjects had lower acetic and propionic acid levels (149.06 ± 88.54 vs. 261.33 ± 109.75 µg/ml and 100.60 ± 60.62 vs. 157.34 ± 66.37 µg/ml, respectively, P < 0.05) and higher isobutyric and isovaleric acid levels (27.21 ± 15.06 vs. 18.16 ± 8.65 µg/ml and 31.78 ± 18.81 vs. 16.90 ± 10.05 µg/ml, respectively, P < 0.05). At 252.21 µg/ml acetic acid, the specificity and sensitivity to distinguish healthy from STC subjects were 93.7% and 56.3%, respectively. In STC subjects, there were significant negative correlations between acetic and propionic acid levels and Constipation Scoring System scores. CONCLUSION Fecal SCFA, acetic acid, and propionic acid levels decreased in STC subjects. There were significant negative correlations between the levels of the two acids and constipation severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
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2
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Stummer N, Feichtinger RG, Weghuber D, Kofler B, Schneider AM. Role of Hydrogen Sulfide in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1570. [PMID: 37627565 PMCID: PMC10452036 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), originally known as toxic gas, has now attracted attention as one of the gasotransmitters involved in many reactions in the human body. H2S has been assumed to play a role in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases, of which the exact pathogenesis remains unknown. One of them is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a chronic intestinal disease subclassified as Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Any change in the amount of H2S seems to be linked to inflammation in this illness. These changes can be brought about by alterations in the microbiota, in the endogenous metabolism of H2S and in the diet. As both too little and too much H2S drive inflammation, a balanced level is needed for intestinal health. The aim of this review is to summarize the available literature published until June 2023 in order to provide an overview of the current knowledge of the connection between H2S and IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Stummer
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (N.S.); (R.G.F.); (D.W.); (B.K.)
| | - René G. Feichtinger
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (N.S.); (R.G.F.); (D.W.); (B.K.)
| | - Daniel Weghuber
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (N.S.); (R.G.F.); (D.W.); (B.K.)
| | - Barbara Kofler
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (N.S.); (R.G.F.); (D.W.); (B.K.)
- Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Paracelsus Medical University (PMU), 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Anna M. Schneider
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (N.S.); (R.G.F.); (D.W.); (B.K.)
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Procházková N, Falony G, Dragsted LO, Licht TR, Raes J, Roager HM. Advancing human gut microbiota research by considering gut transit time. Gut 2023; 72:180-191. [PMID: 36171079 PMCID: PMC9763197 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2022-328166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence indicates that gut transit time is a key factor in shaping the gut microbiota composition and activity, which are linked to human health. Both population-wide and small-scale studies have identified transit time as a top covariate contributing to the large interindividual variation in the faecal microbiota composition. Despite this, transit time is still rarely being considered in the field of the human gut microbiome. Here, we review the latest research describing how and why whole gut and segmental transit times vary substantially between and within individuals, and how variations in gut transit time impact the gut microbiota composition, diversity and metabolism. Furthermore, we discuss the mechanisms by which the gut microbiota may causally affect gut motility. We argue that by taking into account the interindividual and intraindividual differences in gut transit time, we can advance our understanding of diet-microbiota interactions and disease-related microbiome signatures, since these may often be confounded by transient or persistent alterations in transit time. Altogether, a better understanding of the complex, bidirectional interactions between the gut microbiota and transit time is required to better understand gut microbiome variations in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Procházková
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Gwen Falony
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Microbiology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lars Ove Dragsted
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Tine Rask Licht
- National Food Institute, Technical University, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Jeroen Raes
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Microbiology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Henrik M Roager
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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4
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Gut Microbial Stability is Associated with Greater Endurance Performance in Athletes Undertaking Dietary Periodization. mSystems 2022; 7:e0012922. [PMID: 35579384 PMCID: PMC9238380 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00129-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Dietary manipulation with high-protein or high-carbohydrate content are frequently employed during elite athletic training, aiming to enhance athletic performance. Such interventions are likely to impact upon gut microbial content. This study explored the impact of acute high-protein or high-carbohydrate diets on measured endurance performance and associated gut microbial community changes. In a cohort of well-matched, highly trained endurance runners, we measured performance outcomes, as well as gut bacterial, viral (FVP), and bacteriophage (IV) communities in a double-blind, repeated-measures design randomized control trial (RCT) to explore the impact of dietary intervention with either high-protein or high-carbohydrate content. High-dietary carbohydrate improved time-trial performance by +6.5% (P < 0.03) and was associated with expansion of Ruminococcus and Collinsella bacterial spp. Conversely, high dietary protein led to a reduction in performance by −23.3% (P = 0.001). This impact was accompanied by significantly reduced diversity (IV: P = 0.04) and altered composition (IV and FVP: P = 0.02) of the gut phageome as well as enrichment of both free and inducible Sk1virus and Leuconostoc bacterial populations. Greatest performance during dietary modification was observed in participants with less substantial shifts in community composition. Gut microbial stability during acute dietary periodization was associated with greater athletic performance in this highly trained, well-matched cohort. Athletes, and those supporting them, should be mindful of the potential consequences of dietary manipulation on gut flora and implications for performance, and periodize appropriately. IMPORTANCE Dietary periodization is employed to improve endurance exercise performance but may impact on gut microbial communities. Bacteriophage are implicated in bacterial cell homeostasis and have been identified as biomarkers of disequilibrium in the gut ecosystem possibly brought about through dietary periodization. We find high-carbohydrate and high-protein diets to have opposing impacts on endurance performance in highly trained athlete populations. Reduced performance is linked with disturbance of microbial stasis in the gut. We demonstrate bacteriophage communities are the most sensitive component of the gut microbiota to increased gut stress following dietary manipulation. Athletes undertaking dietary periodization should be aware of potential negative impacts of drastic changes to dietary composition on gut microbial stasis and, in turn, endurance performance.
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Rodríguez-Romero JDJ, Durán-Castañeda AC, Cárdenas-Castro AP, Sánchez-Burgos JA, Zamora-Gasga VM, Sáyago-Ayerdi SG. What we know about protein gut metabolites: Implications and insights for human health and diseases. Food Chem X 2022; 13:100195. [PMID: 35499004 PMCID: PMC9039920 DOI: 10.1016/j.fochx.2021.100195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota is a complex ecosystem of symbiotic bacteria that contribute to human metabolism and supply intestinal metabolites, whose production is mainly influenced by the diet. Dietary patterns characterized by a high intake of protein promotes the growth of proteolytic bacteria's, which produce metabolites from undigested protein fermentation. Microbioal protein metabolites can regulate immune, metabolic and neuronal responses in different target organs. Metabolic pathways of these compounds and their mechanisms of action on different pathologies can lead to the discovery of new diagnostic techniques, drugs and the potential use as functional ingredients in food. This review discusses the potential mechanisms by which amino acid catabolism is involved in microbial protein metabolites. In addition, results from several studies on the association of products from the intestinal metabolism of indigestible proteins and the state of health or disease of the host are revised.
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Affiliation(s)
- José de Jesús Rodríguez-Romero
- Tecnológico Nacional de México, Instituto Tecnológico de Tepic, Laboratorio Integral de Investigación en Alimentos, División de Estudios de Posgrado, Av. Tecnológico No 2595, Col. Lagos del Country CP 63175, Tepic, Nayarit, México
| | - Alba Cecilia Durán-Castañeda
- Tecnológico Nacional de México, Instituto Tecnológico de Tepic, Laboratorio Integral de Investigación en Alimentos, División de Estudios de Posgrado, Av. Tecnológico No 2595, Col. Lagos del Country CP 63175, Tepic, Nayarit, México
| | - Alicia Paulina Cárdenas-Castro
- Tecnológico Nacional de México, Instituto Tecnológico de Tepic, Laboratorio Integral de Investigación en Alimentos, División de Estudios de Posgrado, Av. Tecnológico No 2595, Col. Lagos del Country CP 63175, Tepic, Nayarit, México
| | - Jorge Alberto Sánchez-Burgos
- Tecnológico Nacional de México, Instituto Tecnológico de Tepic, Laboratorio Integral de Investigación en Alimentos, División de Estudios de Posgrado, Av. Tecnológico No 2595, Col. Lagos del Country CP 63175, Tepic, Nayarit, México
| | - Victor Manuel Zamora-Gasga
- Tecnológico Nacional de México, Instituto Tecnológico de Tepic, Laboratorio Integral de Investigación en Alimentos, División de Estudios de Posgrado, Av. Tecnológico No 2595, Col. Lagos del Country CP 63175, Tepic, Nayarit, México
| | - Sonia Guadalupe Sáyago-Ayerdi
- Tecnológico Nacional de México, Instituto Tecnológico de Tepic, Laboratorio Integral de Investigación en Alimentos, División de Estudios de Posgrado, Av. Tecnológico No 2595, Col. Lagos del Country CP 63175, Tepic, Nayarit, México
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Abstract
The aim of this review is to provide an overview of how person-specific interactions between diet and the gut microbiota could play a role in affecting diet-induced weight loss responses. The highly person-specific gut microbiota, which is shaped by our diet, secretes digestive enzymes and molecules that affect digestion in the colon. Therefore, weight loss responses could in part depend on personal colonic fermentation responses, which affect energy extraction of food and production of microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which exert various effects on host metabolism. Colonic fermentation is the net result of the complex interplay between availability of dietary substrates, the functional capacity of the gut microbiome and environmental (abiotic) factors in the gut such as pH and transit time. While animal studies have demonstrated that the gut microbiota can causally affect obesity, causal and mechanistic evidence from human studies is still largely lacking. However, recent human studies have proposed that the baseline gut microbiota composition may predict diet-induced weight loss-responses. In particular, individuals characterised by high relative abundance of Prevotella have been found to lose more weight on diets rich in dietary fibre compared to individuals with low Prevotella abundance. Although harnessing of personal diet-microbiota interactions holds promise for more personalised nutrition and obesity management strategies to improve human health, there is currently insufficient evidence to unequivocally link the gut microbiota and weight loss in human subjects. To move the field forward, a greater understanding of the mechanistic underpinnings of personal diet-microbiota interactions is needed.
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Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant public health problem accounting for about 10% of all new cancer cases globally. Though genetic and epigenetic factors influence CRC, the gut microbiota acts as a significant component of the disease's etiology. Further research is still needed to clarify the specific roles and identify more bacteria related to CRC development. This review aims to provide an overview of the "driver-passenger" model of CRC. The colonization and active invasion of the "driver(s)" bacteria cause damages allowing other commensals, known as "passengers," or their by-products, i.e., metabolites, to pass through the epithelium . This review will not only focus on the species of bacteria implicated in this model but also on their biological functions implicated in the occurrence of CRC, such as forming biofilms, mucus, penetration and production of enterotoxins and genotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Avril
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - R. William DePaolo
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA,Department of Medicine, Center for Microbiome Sciences & Therapeutics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA,CONTACT R. William DePaolo Department of Medicine, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific Avenue, Seattle, WA98195, USA
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8
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Tomasova L, Grman M, Ondrias K, Ufnal M. The impact of gut microbiota metabolites on cellular bioenergetics and cardiometabolic health. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2021; 18:72. [PMID: 34266472 PMCID: PMC8281717 DOI: 10.1186/s12986-021-00598-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent research demonstrates a reciprocal relationship between gut microbiota-derived metabolites and the host in controlling the energy homeostasis in mammals. On the one hand, to thrive, gut bacteria exploit nutrients digested by the host. On the other hand, the host utilizes numerous products of gut bacteria metabolism as a substrate for ATP production in the colon. Finally, bacterial metabolites seep from the gut into the bloodstream and interfere with the host’s cellular bioenergetics machinery. Notably, there is an association between alterations in microbiota composition and the development of metabolic diseases and their cardiovascular complications. Some metabolites, like short-chain fatty acids and trimethylamine, are considered markers of cardiometabolic health. Others, like hydrogen sulfide and nitrite, demonstrate antihypertensive properties. Scientific databases were searched for pre-clinical and clinical studies to summarize current knowledge on the role of gut microbiota metabolites in the regulation of mammalian bioenergetics and discuss their potential involvement in the development of cardiometabolic disorders. Overall, the available data demonstrates that gut bacteria products affect physiological and pathological processes controlling energy and vascular homeostasis. Thus, the modulation of microbiota-derived metabolites may represent a new approach for treating obesity, hypertension and type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Tomasova
- Institute of Clinical and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 05, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
| | - Marian Grman
- Institute of Clinical and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 05, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Karol Ondrias
- Institute of Clinical and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 05, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Marcin Ufnal
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091, Warsaw, Poland.
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9
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Mitchell SC. Nutrition and sulfur. ADVANCES IN FOOD AND NUTRITION RESEARCH 2021; 96:123-174. [PMID: 34112351 DOI: 10.1016/bs.afnr.2021.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Sulfur is unusual in that it is a mineral that may be taken into the body in both inorganic and organic combinations. It has been available within the environment throughout the development of lifeforms and as such has become integrated into virtually every aspect of biochemical function. It is essential for the nature and maintenance of structure, assists in communication within the organism, is vital as a catalytic assistant in intermediary metabolism and the mechanism of energy flow as well as being involved in internal defense against potentially damaging reactive species and invading foreign chemicals. Recent studies have suggested extended roles for sulfur-containing molecules within living systems. As such, questions have been raised as to whether or not humans are receiving sufficient sulfur within their diet. Sulfur appears to have been the "poor relation" with regards to mineral nutrition. This may be because of difficulties encountered over its multifarious functions, the many chemical guises in which it may be ingested and its complex biochemical interconversions once taken into the body. No established daily requirements have been determined, unlike many minerals, although suggestions have been proposed. Owing to its widespread distribution within dietary components its intake has almost been taken for granted. In the majority of individuals partaking of a balanced diet the supply is deemed adequate, but those opting for specialized or restrictive diets may experience occasional and low-level shortages. In these instances, the careful use of sulfur supplements may be of benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen C Mitchell
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, England, United Kingdom.
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10
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Nestel N, Hvass JD, Bahl MI, Hansen LH, Krych L, Nielsen DS, Dragsted LO, Roager HM. The Gut Microbiome and Abiotic Factors as Potential Determinants of Postprandial Glucose Responses: A Single-Arm Meal Study. Front Nutr 2021; 7:594850. [PMID: 33585532 PMCID: PMC7874175 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2020.594850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome has combined with other person-specific information, such as blood parameters, dietary habits, anthropometrics, and physical activity been found to predict personalized postprandial glucose responses (PPGRs) to various foods. Yet, the contributions of specific microbiome taxa, measures of fermentation, and abiotic factors in the colon to glycemic control remain elusive. We tested whether PPGRs 60 min after a standardized breakfast was associated with gut microbial α-diversity (primary outcome) and explored whether postprandial responses of glucose and insulin were associated with specific microbiome taxa, colonic fermentation as reflected by fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and breath hydrogen and methane exhalation, as well as abiotic factors including fecal pH, fecal water content, fecal energy density, intestinal transit time (ITT), and stool consistency. A single-arm meal trial was conducted. A total of 31 healthy (24 female and seven male) subjects consumed a standardized evening meal and a subsequent standardized breakfast (1,499 kJ) where blood was collected for analysis of postprandial glucose and insulin responses. PPGRs to the same breakfast varied across the healthy subjects. The largest inter-individual variability in PPGRs was observed 60 min after the meal but was not associated with gut microbial α-diversity. In addition, no significant associations were observed between postprandial responses and specific taxa of the gut microbiome, measures of colonic fermentation, ITT, or other abiotic factors. However, fasting glucose concentrations were negatively associated with ITT, and fasting insulin was positively associated with fasting breath hydrogen. In conclusion, the gut microbiome, measures of colonic fermentation, and abiotic factors were not shown to be significantly associated with variability in postprandial responses, suggesting that contributions of the gut microbiome, colonic fermentation, and abiotic factors to PPGRs may be subtle in healthy adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Nestel
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Josephine D. Hvass
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Martin I. Bahl
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Lars H. Hansen
- Department of Plant and Environmental Science, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Lukasz Krych
- Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Dennis S. Nielsen
- Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Lars Ove Dragsted
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Henrik M. Roager
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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11
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Smith NW, Shorten PR, Altermann E, Roy NC, McNabb WC. Examination of hydrogen cross-feeders using a colonic microbiota model. BMC Bioinformatics 2021; 22:3. [PMID: 33407079 PMCID: PMC7789523 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-020-03923-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hydrogen cross-feeding microbes form a functionally important subset of the human colonic microbiota. The three major hydrogenotrophic functional groups of the colon: sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB), methanogens and reductive acetogens, have been linked to wide ranging impacts on host physiology, health and wellbeing. Results An existing mathematical model for microbial community growth and metabolism was combined with models for each of the three hydrogenotrophic functional groups. The model was further developed for application to the colonic environment via inclusion of responsive pH, host metabolite absorption and the inclusion of host mucins. Predictions of the model, using two existing metabolic parameter sets, were compared to experimental faecal culture datasets. Model accuracy varied between experiments and measured variables and was most successful in predicting the growth of high relative abundance functional groups, such as the Bacteroides, and short chain fatty acid (SCFA) production. Two versions of the colonic model were developed: one representing the colon with sequential compartments and one utilising a continuous spatial representation. When applied to the colonic environment, the model predicted pH dynamics within the ranges measured in vivo and SCFA ratios comparable to those in the literature. The continuous version of the model simulated relative abundances of microbial functional groups comparable to measured values, but predictions were sensitive to the metabolic parameter values used for each functional group. Sulphate availability was found to strongly influence hydrogenotroph activity in the continuous version of the model, correlating positively with SRB and sulphide concentration and negatively with methanogen concentration, but had no effect in the compartmentalised model version. Conclusions Although the model predictions compared well to only some experimental measurements, the important features of the colon environment included make it a novel and useful contribution to modelling the colonic microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick W Smith
- School of Food and Advanced Technology, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Riddet Institute, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.,AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
| | - Paul R Shorten
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand. .,AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand.
| | - Eric Altermann
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.,AgResearch, Grasslands Research Centre, Private Bag 11008, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.,High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Nicole C Roy
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.,High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Human Nutrition, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.,Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Warren C McNabb
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.,High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge, Auckland, New Zealand
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12
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Wei W, Wang HF, Zhang Y, Zhang YL, Niu BY, Yao SK. Altered metabolism of bile acids correlates with clinical parameters and the gut microbiota in patients with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:7153-7172. [PMID: 33362374 PMCID: PMC7723672 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i45.7153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bile acids (BAs) have attracted attention in the research of irritable bowel syndrome with predominant diarrhea (IBS-D) due to their ability to modulate bowel function and their tight connection with the gut microbiota. The composition of the fecal BA pool in IBS-D patients is reportedly different from that in healthy populations. We hypothesized that BAs may participate in the pathogenesis of IBS-D and the altered BA profile may be correlated with the gut microbiome. AIM To investigate the role of BAs in the pathogenesis of IBS-D and the correlation between fecal BAs and gut microbiota. METHODS Fifty-five IBS-D patients diagnosed according to the Rome IV criteria and twenty-eight age-, sex-, and body mass index-matched healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled in this study at the gastroenterology department of China-Japan Friendship Hospital. First, clinical manifestations were assessed with standardized questionnaires, and visceral sensitivity was evaluated via the rectal distension test using a high-resolution manometry system. Fecal primary BAs including cholic acid (CA) and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), secondary BAs including deoxycholic acid (DCA), lithocholic acid (LCA), and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) as well as the corresponding tauro- and glyco-BAs were examined by ultraperformance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. The gut microbiota was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Correlations between fecal BAs with clinical features and gut microbiota were explored. RESULTS Fecal CA (IBS-D: 3037.66 [282.82, 6917.47] nmol/g, HC: 20.19 [5.03, 1304.28] nmol/g; P < 0.001) and CDCA (IBS-D: 1721.86 [352.80, 2613.83] nmol/g, HC: 57.16 [13.76, 1639.92] nmol/g; P < 0.001) were significantly increased, while LCA (IBS-D: 1621.65 [58.99, 2396.49] nmol/g, HC: 2339.24 [1737.09, 2782.40]; P = 0.002] and UDCA (IBS-D: 8.92 [2.33, 23.93] nmol/g, HC: 17.21 [8.76, 33.48] nmol/g; P = 0.025) were significantly decreased in IBS-D patients compared to HCs. Defecation frequency was positively associated with CA (r = 0.294, P = 0.030) and CDCA (r = 0.290, P = 0.032) and negatively associated with DCA (r = -0.332, P = 0.013) and LCA (r = -0.326, P = 0.015) in IBS-D patients. In total, 23 of 55 IBS-D patients and 15 of 28 HCs participated in the visceral sensitivity test. The first sensation threshold was negatively correlated with CDCA (r = -0.459, P = 0.028) in IBS-D patients. Furthermore, the relative abundance of the family Ruminococcaceae was significantly decreased in IBS-D patients (P < 0.001), and 12 genera were significantly lower in IBS-D patients than in HCs (P < 0.05), with 6 belonging to Ruminococcaceae. Eleven of these genera were negatively correlated with primary BAs and positively correlated with secondary BAs in all subjects. CONCLUSION The altered metabolism of BAs in the gut of IBS-D patients was associated with diarrhea and visceral hypersensitivity and might be ascribed to dysbiosis, especially the reduction of genera in Ruminococcaceae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wei
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Hui-Fen Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yan-Li Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Bing-Yu Niu
- Department of Gastroenterology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Shu-Kun Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
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13
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Smith NW, Shorten PR, Altermann E, Roy NC, McNabb WC. Competition for Hydrogen Prevents Coexistence of Human Gastrointestinal Hydrogenotrophs in Continuous Culture. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1073. [PMID: 32547517 PMCID: PMC7272605 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the metabolic dynamics of the human gastrointestinal tract (GIT) microbiota is of growing importance as research continues to link the microbiome to host health status. Microbial strains that metabolize hydrogen have been associated with a variety of both positive and negative host nutritional and health outcomes, but limited data exists for their competition in the GIT. To enable greater insight into the behaviour of these microbes, a mathematical model was developed for the metabolism and growth of the three major hydrogenotrophic groups: sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB), methanogens and reductive acetogens. In batch culture simulations with abundant sulphate and hydrogen, the SRB outcompeted the methanogen for hydrogen due to having a half-saturation constant 106 times lower than that of the methanogen. The acetogen, with a high model threshold for hydrogen uptake of around 70 mM, was the least competitive. Under high lactate and zero sulphate conditions, hydrogen exchange between the SRB and the methanogen was the dominant interaction. The methanogen grew at 70% the rate of the SRB, with negligible acetogen growth. In continuous culture simulations, both the SRB and the methanogen were washed out at dilution rates above 0.15 h−1 regardless of substrate availability, whereas the acetogen could survive under abundant hydrogen conditions. Specific combinations of conditions were required for survival of more than one hydrogenotroph in continuous culture, and survival of all three was not possible. The stringency of these requirements and the inability of the model to simulate survival of all three hydrogenotrophs in continuous culture demonstrates that factors outside of those modelled are vital to allow hydrogenotroph coexistence in the GIT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick W Smith
- School of Food and Advanced Technology, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand.,AgResearch, Grasslands Research Centre, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Paul R Shorten
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Eric Altermann
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,AgResearch, Grasslands Research Centre, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Nicole C Roy
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,AgResearch, Grasslands Research Centre, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge, Auckland, New Zealand.,Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Warren C McNabb
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge, Auckland, New Zealand
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14
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Qaisrani SN, Van Krimpen MM, Verstegen MWA, Hendriks WH, Kwakkel RP. Effects of three major protein sources on performance, gut morphology and fermentation characteristics in broilers. Br Poult Sci 2019; 61:43-50. [PMID: 31547675 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2019.1671958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
1. This study determined the effects of three protein sources (PS), each at two digestibility crude protein (DCP) levels, on performance, gut morphology and fermentation characteristics in the hindgut of broilers.2. It was hypothesised that broilers fed ingredients high in indigestible CP, i.e. rapeseed meal (RSM) or maize gluten (MG), could potentially cause reduced growth, impaired gut health, and more protein fermentation products in caecal digesta. Increasing the DCP level in each of the indigestible CP diets may compensate for these detrimental effects.3. In total, 288 one-d-old male Ross 308 broilers were used in a completely randomised 3 × 2 factorial design, with six replicate pens per treatment. Three PS: soybean meal (SBM), rapeseed meal (RSM) or maize gluten (MG), and two DCP levels: 15.8 and 17.2% were used.4. Broilers fed SBM had increased feed intake and BWG and improved FCR compared with those fed RSM and MG diets. Broilers fed high DCP had better performance compared with those on low DCP. No significant effects of PS or DCP level were found on gastrointestinal tract development, caecal ammonia or volatile fatty acid concentrations.5. Broilers fed SBM had longer villi, smaller crypts and increased villus height to crypt depth ratio compared with those fed RSM and MG diets. Broilers fed RSM diet had a lower caecal pH, and had 16.5% and 14.9% more branched chain fatty acid contents in caecal digesta compared with those fed SBM and MG diets, respectively, indicating more proteolytic fermentation.6. Replacing SBM by RSM and MG negatively affected growth performance and gut morphology. Hindgut protein fermentation was substantially increased in RSM fed birds.7. To a certain extent, retarded growth performance in RSM and MG fed birds could be counterbalanced by increasing the dietary level of digestible CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- S N Qaisrani
- Animal Nutrition Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands.,Lahore-Pakistan, Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - M M Van Krimpen
- Department Animal Nutrition, Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - M W A Verstegen
- Animal Nutrition Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - W H Hendriks
- Animal Nutrition Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - R P Kwakkel
- Animal Nutrition Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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15
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16
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Metabolite-Sensing G Protein-Coupled Receptors Connect the Diet-Microbiota-Metabolites Axis to Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Cells 2019; 8:cells8050450. [PMID: 31091682 PMCID: PMC6562883 DOI: 10.3390/cells8050450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence has indicated that diet and metabolites, including bacteria- and host-derived metabolites, orchestrate host pathophysiology by regulating metabolism, immune system and inflammation. Indeed, autoimmune diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are associated with the modulation of host response to diets. One crucial mechanism by which the microbiota affects the host is signaling through G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) termed metabolite-sensing GPCRs. In the gut, both immune and nonimmune cells express GPCRs and their activation generally provide anti-inflammatory signals through regulation of both the immune system functions and the epithelial integrity. Members of GPCR family serve as a link between microbiota, immune system and intestinal epithelium by which all these components crucially participate to maintain the gut homeostasis. Conversely, impaired GPCR signaling is associated with IBD and other diseases, including hepatic steatosis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and asthma. In this review, we first outline the signaling, function, expression and the physiological role of several groups of metabolite-sensing GPCRs. We then discuss recent findings on their role in the regulation of the inflammation, their existing endogenous and synthetic ligands and innovative approaches to therapeutically target inflammatory bowel disease.
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17
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Rosario D, Benfeitas R, Bidkhori G, Zhang C, Uhlen M, Shoaie S, Mardinoglu A. Understanding the Representative Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in Metformin-Treated Type 2 Diabetes Patients Using Genome-Scale Metabolic Modeling. Front Physiol 2018; 9:775. [PMID: 29988585 PMCID: PMC6026676 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysbiosis in the gut microbiome composition may be promoted by therapeutic drugs such as metformin, the world’s most prescribed antidiabetic drug. Under metformin treatment, disturbances of the intestinal microbes lead to increased abundance of Escherichia spp., Akkermansia muciniphila, Subdoligranulum variabile and decreased abundance of Intestinibacter bartlettii. This alteration may potentially lead to adverse effects on the host metabolism, with the depletion of butyrate producer genus. However, an increased production of butyrate and propionate was verified in metformin-treated Type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients. The mechanisms underlying these nutritional alterations and their relation with gut microbiota dysbiosis remain unclear. Here, we used Genome-scale Metabolic Models of the representative gut bacteria Escherichia spp., I. bartlettii, A. muciniphila, and S. variabile to elucidate their bacterial metabolism and its effect on intestinal nutrient pool, including macronutrients (e.g., amino acids and short chain fatty acids), minerals and chemical elements (e.g., iron and oxygen). We applied flux balance analysis (FBA) coupled with synthetic lethality analysis interactions to identify combinations of reactions and extracellular nutrients whose absence prevents growth. Our analyses suggest that Escherichia sp. is the bacteria least vulnerable to nutrient availability. We have also examined bacterial contribution to extracellular nutrients including short chain fatty acids, amino acids, and gasses. For instance, Escherichia sp. and S. variabile may contribute to the production of important short chain fatty acids (e.g., acetate and butyrate, respectively) involved in the host physiology under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. We have also identified pathway susceptibility to nutrient availability and reaction changes among the four bacteria using both FBA and flux variability analysis. For instance, lipopolysaccharide synthesis, nucleotide sugar metabolism, and amino acid metabolism are pathways susceptible to changes in Escherichia sp. and A. muciniphila. Our observations highlight important commensal and competing behavior, and their association with cellular metabolism for prevalent gut microbes. The results of our analysis have potential important implications for development of new therapeutic approaches in T2D patients through the development of prebiotics, probiotics, or postbiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorines Rosario
- Science for Life Laboratory, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rui Benfeitas
- Science for Life Laboratory, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gholamreza Bidkhori
- Science for Life Laboratory, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Science for Life Laboratory, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mathias Uhlen
- Science for Life Laboratory, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Saeed Shoaie
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.,Centre for Translational Microbiome Research, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Adil Mardinoglu
- Science for Life Laboratory, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
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18
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Yao CK, Rotbart A, Ou JZ, Kalantar-Zadeh K, Muir JG, Gibson PR. Modulation of colonic hydrogen sulfide production by diet and mesalazine utilizing a novel gas-profiling technology. Gut Microbes 2018; 9:510-522. [PMID: 29561196 PMCID: PMC6287689 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2018.1451280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive hydrogen sulfide (H2S) production from gut microbial metabolism may have clinically important relevance in the pathogenesis of gut disorders, including ulcerative colitis. However, little is known regarding factors that alter its production. Using a newly-designed in vitro gas-profiling technology, the study aimed to verify real-time H2S measurement reproducibility and thereafter, assess its production following exposure to dietary factors and 5-aminosalicylate acid (5-ASA). Measurements of H2S, carbon dioxide, hydrogen and methane measurements were compared between gas-profiling systems. Homogenized slurries were prepared from freshly-passed healthy human feces. Fifty ml slurries were aliquoted into separate fermentation chambers and substrates added including 1 g highly fermentable fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) or resistant starch Hi-Maize (RS), or minimally fermentable psyllium or sterculia, 1 g cysteine, 0.9 g sodium sulfate or 1.2 mL of 1 M 5-ASA alone or in combinations. H2S release was sampled every 5 mins over 4-h and expressed relative to unspiked controls. RS suppressed H2S production by a mean 89.0 (SEM 4.8)% and FOS by 82.2 (6.2)% compared to <35 (17)% by psyllium and sterculia (p<0.001, two-way ANOVA). Cysteine stimulated H2S production by 1557 (532)%. The addition of FOS to slurries containing cysteine significantly suppressed H2S by 90 (2)% over the addition of 5-ASA (0.3 (2)%, p<0.001). Sulfate and 5-ASA had minimal overall effects. In conclusion, the H2S-profiling technology is a reproducible tool. Production of H2S is greatly enhanced by sulfur-amino acids but not inorganic sulfate, and is effectively suppressed by readily fermentable fibers. These findings inform potential designs of dietary therapies to reduce H2S production in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu K. Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Central Clinical School, Alfred Centre, Monash University & Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia,CONTACT Dr. Chu K. Yao Department of Gastroenterology, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Level 6, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne VIC 3004
| | - Asaf Rotbart
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jian Z. Ou
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Jane G. Muir
- Department of Gastroenterology, Central Clinical School, Alfred Centre, Monash University & Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter R. Gibson
- Department of Gastroenterology, Central Clinical School, Alfred Centre, Monash University & Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
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19
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Poelaert C, Despret X, Sindic M, Beckers Y, Francis F, Portetelle D, Soyeurt H, Théwis A, Bindelle J. Cooking Has Variable Effects on the Fermentability in the Large Intestine of the Fraction of Meats, Grain Legumes, and Insects That Is Resistant to Digestion in the Small Intestine in an in Vitro Model of the Pig's Gastrointestinal Tract. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2017; 65:435-444. [PMID: 27997168 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.6b04599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the fermentation in the large intestine of indigestible dietary protein sources from animal, insect, and plant origin using an in vitro model of the pig's gastrointestinal tract. Protein sources were used raw and after a cooking treatment. Results showed that the category of the ingredient (meats, insects, or grain legumes) exerts a stronger impact on enzymatic digestibility, fermentation patterns, and bacterial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) than the cooking treatment. The digestibility and the fermentation characteristics of insects were more affected by the cooking procedure than the other categories. Per gram of consumed food, ingredients from animal origin, namely, meats and insects, were associated with fewer fermentation end-products (gas, H2S, SCFA) than ingredients from plant origin, which is related to their higher small intestinal digestibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Poelaert
- Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege , 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
- Microbiology and Genomics Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege , 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Xavier Despret
- Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege , 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Marianne Sindic
- Laboratory of Agro-food Quality and Safety, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege , 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Yves Beckers
- Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege , 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Frédéric Francis
- Laboratory of Functional and Evolutionary Entomology, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege , 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Daniel Portetelle
- Microbiology and Genomics Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege , 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Hélène Soyeurt
- Applied Statistics, Computer Science and Mathematics Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege , 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - André Théwis
- Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege , 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Jérôme Bindelle
- Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege , 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
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20
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Gottlieb K, Wacher V, Sliman J, Pimentel M. Review article: inhibition of methanogenic archaea by statins as a targeted management strategy for constipation and related disorders. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 43:197-212. [PMID: 26559904 PMCID: PMC4737270 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Revised: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Observational studies show a strong association between delayed intestinal transit and the production of methane. Experimental data suggest a direct inhibitory activity of methane on the colonic and ileal smooth muscle and a possible role for methane as a gasotransmitter. Archaea are the only confirmed biological sources of methane in nature and Methanobrevibacter smithii is the predominant methanogen in the human intestine. AIM To review the biosynthesis and composition of archaeal cell membranes, archaeal methanogenesis and the mechanism of action of statins in this context. METHODS Narrative review of the literature. RESULTS Statins can inhibit archaeal cell membrane biosynthesis without affecting bacterial numbers as demonstrated in livestock and humans. This opens the possibility of a therapeutic intervention that targets a specific aetiological factor of constipation while protecting the intestinal microbiome. While it is generally believed that statins inhibit methane production via their effect on cell membrane biosynthesis, mediated by inhibition of the HMG-CoA reductase, there is accumulating evidence for an alternative or additional mechanism of action where statins inhibit methanogenesis directly. It appears that this other mechanism may predominate when the lactone form of statins, particularly lovastatin lactone, is administered. CONCLUSIONS Clinical development appears promising. A phase 2 clinical trial is currently in progress that evaluates the effect of lovastatin lactone on methanogenesis and symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. The review concludes with an outlook for the future and subsequent work that needs to be done.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - V. Wacher
- Synthetic BiologicsInc.RockvilleMDUSA
| | - J. Sliman
- Synthetic BiologicsInc.RockvilleMDUSA
| | - M. Pimentel
- GastroenterologyCedars‐Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesCAUSA
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21
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Yao CK, Muir JG, Gibson PR. Review article: insights into colonic protein fermentation, its modulation and potential health implications. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 43:181-96. [PMID: 26527169 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2015] [Revised: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Beneficial effects of carbohydrate fermentation on gastrointestinal health are well established. Conversely, protein fermentation generates harmful metabolites but their relevance to gastrointestinal health is poorly understood. AIM To review the effects of increased protein fermentation on biomarkers of colonic health, factors influencing fermentative activity and potential for dietary modulation to minimise detrimental effects. METHODS A literature search was performed in PubMed, Medline, EMBASE and Google scholar for clinical and pre-clinical studies using search terms - 'dietary protein', 'fermentation', 'putrefaction', 'phenols', 'sulphide', 'branched-chain fatty acid', 'carbohydrate fermentation', 'gastrointestinal'. RESULTS High protein, reduced carbohydrate diets alter the colonic microbiome, favouring a potentially pathogenic and pro-inflammatory microbiota profile, decreased short-chain fatty acid production and increased ammonia, phenols and hydrogen sulphide concentrations. These metabolites largely compromise the colonic epithelium structure, causing mucosal inflammation but may also directly modulate the enteric nervous system and intestinal motility. Increased protein fermentation as a result of a high-protein intake can be attenuated by addition of oligosaccharides, resistant starch and nonstarch polysaccharides and a reduction in total protein or specifically, aromatic and sulphur-containing amino acids. These factors may have clinical importance as novel therapeutic approaches to problems, in which protein fermentation may be implicated, such as malodorous flatus, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis and prevention of colorectal cancer. CONCLUSIONS The direct clinical relevance of excessive protein fermentation in the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome, malodorous flatus and ulcerative colitis are underexplored. Manipulating dietary carbohydrate and protein intake have potential therapeutic applications in such settings and warrant further clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C K Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash University, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - J G Muir
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash University, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - P R Gibson
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash University, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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22
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Esposito S, Umbrello G, Castellazzi L, Principi N. Treatment of Clostridium difficile infection in pediatric patients. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2015; 9:747-55. [PMID: 25912469 DOI: 10.1586/17474124.2015.1039988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Clostridium difficile causes infections that can either remain asymptomatic or manifest as clinical disease. In this report, problems, possible solutions, and future perspectives on the treatment of C. difficile infections (CDIs) in pediatric patients are discussed. CDI, despite increasing as a consequence of the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, remains relatively uncommon in pediatrics mainly because younger children are poorly susceptible to the action of C. difficile toxins. In most such cases, C. difficile disease is mild to moderate and discontinuation of the administered antibiotics in patients receiving these drugs when CDI develops, or administration of metronidazole, is sufficient to solve this problem. In severe or frequently relapsing cases, vancomycin is the drug of choice. Probiotics do not seem to add significant advantages. Other treatment options must be reserved for severe cases and be considered as a salvage treatment, although potential advantages in pediatric patients remain unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Esposito
- Pediatric Highly Intensive Care Unit, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Abstract
The aetiology and pathology of IBS, a functional bowel disorder thought to lack an organic cause, is largely unknown. However, studies suggest that various features, such as altered composition of the gut microbiota, together with increased intestinal permeability, a changed balance in the enteroendocrine system and a dysregulated immune system in the gut, most likely have an important role in IBS. Exactly how these entities act together and give rise to symptoms is still unknown, but an altered gut microbiota composition could lead to dysregulation of the intestinal barrier as well as the enteroendocrine and the immune systems, which (through interactions with the nervous system) might generate symptoms. This Review highlights the crosstalk between the gut microbiota, the enteroendocrine system, the immune system and the role of intestinal permeability in patients with IBS.
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24
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Gaci N, Borrel G, Tottey W, O’Toole PW, Brugère JF. Archaea and the human gut: New beginning of an old story. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:16062-16078. [PMID: 25473158 PMCID: PMC4239492 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i43.16062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 05/14/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Methanogenic archaea are known as human gut inhabitants since more than 30 years ago through the detection of methane in the breath and isolation of two methanogenic species belonging to the order Methanobacteriales, Methanobrevibacter smithii and Methanosphaera stadtmanae. During the last decade, diversity of archaea encountered in the human gastrointestinal tract (GIT) has been extended by sequence identification and culturing of new strains. Here we provide an updated census of the archaeal diversity associated with the human GIT and their possible role in the gut physiology and health. We particularly focus on the still poorly characterized 7th order of methanogens, the Methanomassiliicoccales, associated to aged population. While also largely distributed in non-GIT environments, our actual knowledge on this novel order of methanogens has been mainly revealed through GIT inhabitants. They enlarge the number of final electron acceptors of the gut metabolites to mono- di- and trimethylamine. Trimethylamine is exclusively a microbiota-derived product of nutrients (lecithin, choline, TMAO, L-carnitine) from normal diet, from which seems originate two diseases, trimethylaminuria (or Fish-Odor Syndrome) and cardiovascular disease through the proatherogenic property of its oxidized liver-derived form. This therefore supports interest on these methanogenic species and its use as archaebiotics, a term coined from the notion of archaea-derived probiotics.
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Louis P, Hold GL, Flint HJ. The gut microbiota, bacterial metabolites and colorectal cancer. Nat Rev Microbiol 2014; 12:661-72. [PMID: 25198138 DOI: 10.1038/nrmicro3344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1745] [Impact Index Per Article: 174.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that the human intestinal microbiota contributes to the aetiology of colorectal cancer (CRC), not only via the pro-carcinogenic activities of specific pathogens but also via the influence of the wider microbial community, particularly its metabolome. Recent data have shown that the short-chain fatty acids acetate, propionate and butyrate function in the suppression of inflammation and cancer, whereas other microbial metabolites, such as secondary bile acids, promote carcinogenesis. In this Review, we discuss the relationship between diet, microbial metabolism and CRC and argue that the cumulative effects of microbial metabolites should be considered in order to better predict and prevent cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Louis
- Microbiology Group, Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Greenburn Road, Bucksburn, Aberdeen AB21 9SB, UK
| | - Georgina L Hold
- Gastrointestinal Research Group, Division of Applied Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Harry J Flint
- Microbiology Group, Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Greenburn Road, Bucksburn, Aberdeen AB21 9SB, UK
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Gerasimidis K, Bertz M, Hanske L, Junick J, Biskou O, Aguilera M, Garrick V, Russell RK, Blaut M, McGrogan P, Edwards CA. Decline in presumptively protective gut bacterial species and metabolites are paradoxically associated with disease improvement in pediatric Crohn's disease during enteral nutrition. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2014; 20:861-71. [PMID: 24651582 DOI: 10.1097/mib.0000000000000023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The gut microbiota is implicated in the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease (CD). Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is a successful treatment, but its mode of action remains unknown. This study assessed serial changes in the fecal microbiota milieu during EEN. METHODS Five fecal samples were collected from CD children: 4 during EEN (start, 15, 30, end EEN approximately 60 days) and the fifth on habitual diet. Two samples were collected from healthy control subjects. Fecal pH, bacterial metabolites, global microbial diversity abundance, composition stability, and quantitative changes of total and 7 major bacterial groups previously implicated in CD were measured. RESULTS Overall, 68 samples were from 15 CD children and 40 from 21 control subjects. Fecal pH and total sulfide increased and butyric acid decreased during EEN (all P < 0.05). Global bacterial diversity abundance decreased (P < 0.05); a higher degree of microbiota composition stability was seen in control subjects than in CD children during EEN (at P ≤ 0.008). Faecalibacterium prausnitzii spp concentration significantly decreased after 30 days on EEN (P < 0.05). In patients who responded to EEN, the magnitude of the observed changes was greater and the concentration of Bacteroides/Prevotella group decreased (P < 0.05). All these changes reverted to pretreatment levels on free diet, and EEN microbiota diversity increased when the children returned to their free diet. CONCLUSIONS EEN impacts on gut microbiota composition and changes fecal metabolic activity. It is difficult to infer a causative association between such changes and disease improvement, but the results do challenge the current perception of a protective role for F. prausnitzii in CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Gerasimidis
- *Human Nutrition, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom; †Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, National Health Service Scotland, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Glasgow, United Kingdom; ‡Department of Gastrointestinal Microbiology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee, Nuthetal, Germany; and §Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, Granada, Spain
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He X, Marco ML, Slupsky CM. Emerging aspects of food and nutrition on gut microbiota. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2013; 61:9559-9574. [PMID: 24028159 DOI: 10.1021/jf4029046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The human gastrointestinal tract contains a highly complex ecosystem that harbors various microorganisms, which together create a unique environment within each individual. There is growing awareness that dietary habits are one of the essential factors contributing to the microbial diversity and community configuration that ultimately affects human health. From an evolutionary perspective, human dietary history can be viewed as a central factor in the selection of the gut microbial community and stabilization of the mutualistic host-microbial interaction, that together drive host phenotype. Herein, current knowledge concerning the influence of major dietary macrostructure and individual food ingredients is presented. This knowledge will provide perspectives for personalized gut microbiota management and, ultimately, movement toward an era of personalized nutrition and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan He
- Department of Nutrition and ‡Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California , Davis, California 95616, United States
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28
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El Aidy S, Van den Abbeele P, Van de Wiele T, Louis P, Kleerebezem M. Intestinal colonization: how key microbial players become established in this dynamic process: microbial metabolic activities and the interplay between the host and microbes. Bioessays 2013; 35:913-23. [PMID: 23946088 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201300073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we provide an overview of the dynamic changes within the microbiota and its metabolites that are implicated in establishing and maintaining gastrointestinal homeostasis during various stages of microbial colonization. The gradual conversion of the gut microbiota toward a mutualistic microbial community involves replacement of pioneer gut colonizers with bacterial taxa that are characteristic for the adult gut. An important microbial signature of homeostasis in the adult gut is the prevalence and activity of a diverse spectrum of bacterial species that produce beneficial metabolites through metabolic interactions between microbial groups. Deciphering these microbial signatures and their metabolites that govern short and long-term equilibrium, as well as imbalances in host-microbial relationships, may provide novel diagnostic tools and/or therapeutic targets for specific disorders associated with intestinal dysbiosis and loss of homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar El Aidy
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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29
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Aminov RI. Role of archaea in human disease. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2013; 3:42. [PMID: 23964350 PMCID: PMC3741462 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2013.00042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Accepted: 07/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rustam I Aminov
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of West Indies at Mona Kingston, Jamaica.
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30
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Chen X, D'Souza R, Hong ST. The role of gut microbiota in the gut-brain axis: current challenges and perspectives. Protein Cell 2013; 4:403-14. [PMID: 23686721 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-013-3017-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 04/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract are intimately connected to form a bidirectional neurohumoral communication system. The communication between gut and brain, knows as the gut-brain axis, is so well established that the functional status of gut is always related to the condition of brain. The researches on the gut-brain axis were traditionally focused on the psychological status affecting the function of the GI tract. However, recent evidences showed that gut microbiota communicates with the brain via the gut-brain axis to modulate brain development and behavioral phenotypes. These recent findings on the new role of gut microbiota in the gut-brain axis implicate that gut microbiota could associate with brain functions as well as neurological diseases via the gut-brain axis. To elucidate the role of gut microbiota in the gut-brain axis, precise identification of the composition of microbes constituting gut microbiota is an essential step. However, identification of microbes constituting gut microbiota has been the main technological challenge currently due to massive amount of intestinal microbes and the difficulties in culture of gut microbes. Current methods for identification of microbes constituting gut microbiota are dependent on omics analysis methods by using advanced high tech equipment. Here, we review the association of gut microbiota with the gut-brain axis, including the pros and cons of the current high throughput methods for identification of microbes constituting gut microbiota to elucidate the role of gut microbiota in the gut-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Chen
- BDRD Research Institute, JINIS Biopharmaceuticals Inc, 948-9 Dunsan, Bongdong, Wanju, Chonbuk, 565-902, South Korea
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31
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Carbonero F, Benefiel AC, Alizadeh-Ghamsari AH, Gaskins HR. Microbial pathways in colonic sulfur metabolism and links with health and disease. Front Physiol 2012; 3:448. [PMID: 23226130 PMCID: PMC3508456 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2012.00448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 345] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2012] [Accepted: 11/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sulfur is both crucial to life and a potential threat to health. While colonic sulfur metabolism mediated by eukaryotic cells is relatively well studied, much less is known about sulfur metabolism within gastrointestinal microbes. Sulfated compounds in the colon are either of inorganic (e.g., sulfates, sulfites) or organic (e.g., dietary amino acids and host mucins) origin. The most extensively studied of the microbes involved in colonic sulfur metabolism are the sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB), which are common colonic inhabitants. Many other microbial pathways are likely to shape colonic sulfur metabolism as well as the composition and availability of sulfated compounds, and these interactions need to be examined in more detail. Hydrogen sulfide is the sulfur derivative that has attracted the most attention in the context of colonic health, and the extent to which it is detrimental or beneficial remains in debate. Several lines of evidence point to SRB or exogenous hydrogen sulfide as potential players in the etiology of intestinal disorders, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) and colorectal cancer in particular. Generation of hydrogen sulfide via pathways other than dissimilatory sulfate reduction may be as, or more, important than those involving the SRB. We suggest here that a novel axis of research is to assess the effects of hydrogen sulfide in shaping colonic microbiome structure. Clearly, in-depth characterization of the microbial pathways involved in colonic sulfur metabolism is necessary for a better understanding of its contribution to colonic disorders and development of therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franck Carbonero
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana, IL, USA
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32
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Ulbricht C, Conquer J, Costa D, Hamilton W, Higdon ERB, Isaac R, Rusie E, Rychlik I, Serrano JMG, Tanguay-Colucci S, Theeman M, Varghese M. An evidence-based systematic review of senna (Cassia senna) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. J Diet Suppl 2012; 8:189-238. [PMID: 22432689 DOI: 10.3109/19390211.2011.573186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
An evidence-based systematic review, including written and statistical analysis of scientific literature, expert opinion, folkloric precedent, history, pharmacology, kinetics/dynamics, interactions, adverse effects, toxicology, and dosing.
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33
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Poulsen H, Jensen B, Finster K, Spence C, Whitehead T, Cotta M, Canibe N. Microbial production of volatile sulphur compounds in the large intestine of pigs fed two different diets. J Appl Microbiol 2012; 113:143-54. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2012.05309.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The 'gut-brain' or 'brain-gut axis', depending on whether we emphasize bottom-up or top-bottom pathways, is a bi-directional communication system, comprised of neural pathways, such as the enteric nervous system (ENS), vagus, sympathetic and spinal nerves, and humoral pathways, which include cytokines, hormones, and neuropeptides as signaling molecules. Recent evidence, mainly arising from animal models, supports a role of microbes as signaling components in the gut-brain axis. AIMS The purpose of this review is to summarize our current knowledge regarding the role of microbes, including commensals, probiotics and gastrointestinal pathogens, in bottom-up pathways of communication in the gut-brain axis. Although this has clear implications for psychiatric co-morbidity in functional and inflammatory conditions of the gut, the focus of this review will be to discuss the current evidence for a role of bacteria (commensals, probiotics, and pathogens) as key modulators of gut-brain communication. RESULTS & CONCLUSIONS The strongest evidence for a role of microbes as signaling components in the gut-brain axis currently arises from animal studies and indicate that mechanisms of communication are likely to be multiple. There is need for the concepts generated in animal models to be translated to the human in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Bercik
- Farcombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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35
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Jahng J, Jung IS, Choi EJ, Conklin JL, Park H. The effects of methane and hydrogen gases produced by enteric bacteria on ileal motility and colonic transit time. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2012; 24:185-90, e92. [PMID: 22097886 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2011.01819.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gases produced by intestinal flora may modulate intestinal motor function in healthy individuals as well as those with functional bowel disease. Methane, produced by enteric bacteria in the human gut, is associated with slowed intestinal transit and constipation. The effects of hydrogen, another main gas produced by bacterial fermentation in the gut, on small bowel and colonic motor function remains unrecognized. Therefore, we set out to investigate whether intestinal gases including methane and hydrogen could influence the small bowel motility and colonic transit. METHODS Guinea pig ileum was placed in the peristaltic bath with tension transducers attached to measure velocity and amplitude of peristaltic contraction before and after the infusion of control, hydrogen, and methane gases. Also, changes in the intraluminal pressures were monitored before and after the gas infusions. KEY RESULTS Methane decreased peristaltic velocity and increased contraction amplitude significantly of guinea pig ileum (P < 0.05). The AUC of intraluminal pressure was significantly increased with methane in guinea pig ileum (P < 0.05). In a second experiment, guinea pig colon was placed in the peristaltic bath to measure transit time before and after control, hydrogen, methane, and methane-hydrogen mixture gas infusions. Hydrogen shortened colonic transit time by 47% in the proximal colon, and by 10% in the distal colon, when compared with baselines (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Methane delayed ileal peristaltic conduction velocity by augmenting contractility. Hydrogen shortened colonic transit, and that effect was more prominent in the proximal colon than distal colon.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Jahng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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36
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Nakamura N, Lin HC, McSweeney CS, Mackie RI, Gaskins HR. Mechanisms of microbial hydrogen disposal in the human colon and implications for health and disease. Annu Rev Food Sci Technol 2012; 1:363-95. [PMID: 22129341 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.food.102308.124101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In the human gastrointestinal tract, dietary components, including fiber, that reach the colon are fermented principally to short-chain fatty acids, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide. Microbial disposal of the hydrogen generated during anaerobic fermentation in the human colon is critical to optimal functioning of this ecosystem. However, our understanding of microbial hydrogenotrophy is fragmented and, at least as it occurs in the colon, is mostly theoretical in nature. Thorough investigation and integration of knowledge on the diversity of hydrogenotrophic microbes, their metabolic variation and activities as a functional group, as well as the nature of their interactions with fermentative bacteria, are necessary to understand hydrogen metabolism in the human colon. Here, we review the limited data available on the three major groups of H(2)-consuming microorganisms found in the human colon [methanogens, sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB), and acetogens] as well as evidence that end products of their metabolism have an important impact on colonic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Nakamura
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
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Hamer HM, De Preter V, Windey K, Verbeke K. Functional analysis of colonic bacterial metabolism: relevant to health? Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2012; 302:G1-9. [PMID: 22016433 PMCID: PMC3345969 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00048.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
With the use of molecular techniques, numerous studies have evaluated the composition of the intestinal microbiota in health and disease. However, it is of major interest to supplement this with a functional analysis of the microbiota. In this review, the different approaches that have been used to characterize microbial metabolites, yielding information on the functional end products of microbial metabolism, have been summarized. To analyze colonic microbial metabolites, the most conventional way is by application of a hypothesis-driven targeted approach, through quantification of selected metabolites from carbohydrate (e.g., short-chain fatty acids) and protein fermentation (e.g., p-cresol, phenol, ammonia, or H(2)S), secondary bile acids, or colonic enzymes. The application of stable isotope-labeled substrates can provide an elegant solution to study these metabolic pathways in vivo. On the other hand, a top-down approach can be followed by applying metabolite fingerprinting techniques based on (1)H-NMR or mass spectrometric analysis. Quantification of known metabolites and characterization of metabolite patterns in urine, breath, plasma, and fecal samples can reveal new pathways and give insight into physiological regulatory processes of the colonic microbiota. In addition, specific metabolic profiles can function as a diagnostic tool for the identification of several gastrointestinal diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Nevertheless, future research will have to evaluate the relevance of associations between metabolites and different disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrike M. Hamer
- Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders and Leuven Food Science and Nutrition Research Center, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Vicky De Preter
- Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders and Leuven Food Science and Nutrition Research Center, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karen Windey
- Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders and Leuven Food Science and Nutrition Research Center, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kristin Verbeke
- Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders and Leuven Food Science and Nutrition Research Center, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Windey K, De Preter V, Verbeke K. Relevance of protein fermentation to gut health. Mol Nutr Food Res 2011; 56:184-96. [PMID: 22121108 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201100542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 416] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2011] [Revised: 10/03/2011] [Accepted: 10/19/2011] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
It is generally accepted that carbohydrate fermentation results in beneficial effects for the host because of the generation of short chain fatty acids, whereas protein fermentation is considered detrimental for the host's health. Protein fermentation mainly occurs in the distal colon, when carbohydrates get depleted and results in the production of potentially toxic metabolites such as ammonia, amines, phenols and sulfides. However, the effectivity of these metabolites has been established mainly in in vitro studies. In addition, some important bowel diseases such as colorectal cancer (CRC) and ulcerative colitis appear most often in the distal colon, which is the primary site of protein fermentation. Finally, epidemiological studies revealed that diets rich in meat are associated with the prevalence of CRC, as is the case in Western society. Importantly, meat intake not only increases fermentation of proteins but also induces increased intake of fat, heme and heterocyclic amines, which may also play a role in the development of CRC. Despite these indications, the relationship between gut health and protein fermentation has not been thoroughly investigated. In this review, the existing evidence about the potential toxicity of protein fermentation from in vitro animal and human studies will be summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Windey
- Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders, Leuven Food Science and Nutrition Research Centre, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Blachier F, Davila AM, Mimoun S, Benetti PH, Atanasiu C, Andriamihaja M, Benamouzig R, Bouillaud F, Tomé D. Luminal sulfide and large intestine mucosa: friend or foe? Amino Acids 2009; 39:335-47. [PMID: 20020161 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-009-0445-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2009] [Accepted: 12/02/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H(2)S) is present in the lumen of the human large intestine at millimolar concentrations. However, the concentration of free (unbound) sulfide is in the micromolar range due to a large capacity of fecal components to bind the sulfide. H(2)S can be produced by the intestinal microbiota from alimentary and endogenous sulfur-containing compounds including amino acids. At excessive concentration, H(2)S is known to severely inhibit cytochrome c oxidase, the terminal oxidase of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, and thus mitochondrial oxygen (O(2)) consumption. However, the concept that sulfide is simply a metabolic troublemaker toward colonic epithelial cells has been challenged by the discovery that micromolar concentration of H(2)S is able to increase the cell respiration and to energize mitochondria allowing these cells to detoxify and to recover energy from luminal sulfide. The main product of H(2)S metabolism by the colonic mucosa is thiosulfate. The enzymatic activities involved in sulfide oxidation by the colonic epithelial cells appear to be sulfide quinone oxidoreductase considered as the first and rate-limiting step followed presumably by the action of sulfur dioxygenase and rhodanese. From clinical studies with human volunteers and experimental works with rodents, it appears that H(2)S can exert mostly pro- but also anti-inflammatory effects on the colonic mucosa. From the available data, it is tempting to propose that imbalance between the luminal concentration of free sulfide and the capacity of colonic epithelial cells to metabolize this compound will result in an impairment of the colonic epithelial cell O(2) consumption with consequences on the process of mucosal inflammation. In addition, endogenously produced sulfide is emerging as a prosecretory neuromodulator and as a relaxant agent toward the intestinal contractibility. Lastly, sulfide has been recently described as an agent involved in nociception in the large intestine although, depending on the experimental design, both pro- and anti-nociceptive effects have been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Blachier
- INRA, AgroParisTech, CRNH IdF, UMR 914 Nutrition Physiology and Ingestive Behavior, Paris, France.
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Nakamura N, Leigh SR, Mackie RI, Gaskins HR. Microbial community analysis of rectal methanogens and sulfate reducing bacteria in two non-human primate species. J Med Primatol 2009; 38:360-70. [PMID: 19548980 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0684.2009.00361.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methanogenesis by methanogenic Archaea and sulfate reduction by sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB) are the major hydrogenotrophic pathways in the human colon. Methanogenic status of mammals is suggested to be under evolutionary rather than dietary control. However, information is lacking regarding the dynamics of hydrogenotrophic microbial communities among different primate species. METHODS Rectal swabs were collected from 10 sooty mangabeys (Cercocebus atys) and 10 baboons (Papio hamadryas). The diversity and abundance of methanogens and SRB were examined using PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR). RESULTS The DGGE results revealed that intestinal Archaea and SRB communities differ between mangabeys and baboons. Phylogenetic analyses of Archaea DGGE bands revealed two distinct clusters with one representing a putative novel order of methanogenic Archaea. The qPCR detected a similar abundance of methanogens and SRB. CONCLUSIONS Intestinal Archaea and SRB coexist in these primates, and the community patterns are host species-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Nakamura
- Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Development of a screening method to determine the pattern of fermentation metabolites in faecal samples using on-line purge-and-trap gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric analysis. J Chromatogr A 2009; 1216:1476-83. [PMID: 19167006 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2008.12.095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2008] [Revised: 12/19/2008] [Accepted: 12/31/2008] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
An on-line screening method to analyse volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in faecal samples was developed. VOCs were isolated from a standard solution or faecal samples using a purge-and-trap system and identified and quantified by GC-MS. The experimental conditions were optimised and the performance of the system was evaluated. Linear calibration curves were obtained with correlation coefficients of at least 0.992. RSDs within and between days were less than 10%. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of faecal samples, yielding 135 different volatile organic compounds identified in 11 faecal samples. Of those, 22 VOCs were found in all volunteers, whereas 34 VOCs were person-specific.
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