Is a foetus developing in a sterile environment?

Nisin, a Probiotic Bacteriocin, Modulates the Inflammatory and Microbiome Changes in Female Reproductive Organs Mediated by Polymicrobial Periodontal Infection

Periodontitis-related oral microbial dysbiosis is thought to contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs), infertility, and female reproductive inflammation. Since probiotics can modulate periodontitis and oral microbiome dysbiosis, this study examined the effects of a probiotic bacteriocin, nisin, in modulating the reproductive microbiome and inflammation triggered by periodontitis. A total of 24 eight-week-old BALB/cByJ female mice were randomly divided into four treatment groups (control, infection, nisin, and infection+nisin group), with 6 mice per group. A polymicrobial (Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, Tannerella forsythia, Fusobacterium nucleatum) mouse model of periodontal disease was used to evaluate the effects of this disease on the female reproductive system, with a focus on the microbiome, local inflammation, and nisin's therapeutic potential in this context. Moreover, 16s RNA sequencing was used to evaluate the changes in the microbiome and RT-PCR was used to evaluate the changes in inflammatory cytokines. Periodontal pathogen DNA was detected in the reproductive organs, and in the heart and aorta at the end of the experimental period, and the DNA was especially elevated in the oral cavity in the infection group. Compared to the control groups, only P. gingivalis was significantly higher in the oral cavity and uterus of the infection groups, and T. forsythia and F. nucleatum were significantly higher in the oral cavity of the infection groups. The infection and nisin treatment group had significantly lower levels of P. gingivalis, T. forsythia, and F. nucleatum in the oral cavity compared with the infection group. Since periodontal pathogen DNA was also detected in the heart and aorta, this suggests potential circulatory system transmission. The polymicrobial infection generally decreased the microbiome diversity in the uterus, which was abrogated by nisin treatment. The polymicrobial infection groups, compared to the control groups, generally had lower Firmicutes and higher Bacteroidota in all the reproductive organs, with similar trends revealed in the heart. However, the nisin treatment group and the infection and nisin group, compared to the control or infection groups, generally had higher Proteobacteria and lower Firmicutes and Bacteroidota in the reproductive organs and the heart. Nisin treatment also altered the microbiome community structure in the reproductive tract to a new state that did not mirror the controls. Periodontal disease, compared to the controls, triggered an increase in inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) in the uterus and oral cavity, which was abrogated by nisin treatment. Polymicrobial periodontal disease alters the reproductive tract's microbial profile, microbiome, and inflammatory status. Nisin modulates the microbial profile and microbiome of the reproductive tract and mitigates the elevated uterine inflammatory cytokines triggered by periodontal disease.

What Happens in the Gut during the Formation of Neonatal Jaundice-Underhand Manipulation of Gut Microbiota?

Jaundice is a symptom of high blood bilirubin levels affecting about 80% of neonates. In neonates fed with breast milk, jaundice is particularly prevalent and severe, which is likely multifactorial. With the development of genomics and metagenomics, a deeper understanding of the neonatal gut microbiota has been achieved. We find there are accumulating evidence to indicate the importance of the gut microbiota in the mechanism of jaundice. In this paper, we present new comprehensive insight into the relationship between the microbiota and jaundice. In the new perspective, the gut is a crucial crossroad of bilirubin excretion, and bacteria colonizing the gut could play different roles in the excretion of bilirubin, including Escherichia coli as the main traffic jam causers, some Clostridium and Bacteroides strains as the traffic police, and most probiotic Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains as bystanders with no effect or only a secondary indirect effect on the metabolism of bilirubin. This insight could explain why breast milk jaundice causes a longer duration of blood bilirubin and why most probiotics have limited effects on neonatal jaundice. With the encouragement of breastmilk feeding, our perspective could guide the development of new therapy methods to prevent this side effect of breastfeeding.

Maternal gut microbiota in the health of mothers and offspring: from the perspective of immunology

Due to the physiological alteration during pregnancy, maternal gut microbiota changes following the metabolic processes. Recent studies have revealed that maternal gut microbiota is closely associated with the immune microenvironment in utero during pregnancy and plays a vital role in specific pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth and recurrent miscarriages. Some other evidence has also shown that aberrant maternal gut microbiota increases the risk of various diseases in the offspring, such as allergic and neurodevelopmental disorders, through the immune alignment between mother and fetus and the possible intrauterine microbiota. Probiotics and the high-fiber diet are effective inventions to prevent mothers and fetuses from diseases. In this review, we summarize the role of maternal gut microbiota in the development of pregnancy complications and the health condition of future generations from the perspective of immunology, which may provide new therapeutic strategies for the health management of mothers and offspring.

Maternal transmission of bacterial microbiota during embryonic development in a viviparous lizard

IMPORTANCE

We investigated the presence and diversity of bacteria in the embryos of the viviparous lizard Sceloporus grammicus and their amniotic environment. We compared this diversity to that found in the maternal intestine, mouth, and cloaca. We detected bacterial DNA in the embryos, albeit with a lower bacterial species diversity than found in maternal tissues. Most of the bacterial species detected in the embryos were also found in the mother, although not all of them. Interestingly, we detected a high similarity in the composition of bacterial species among embryos from different mothers. These findings suggest that there may be a mechanism controlling the transmission of bacteria from the mother to the embryo. Our results highlight the possibility that the interaction between maternal bacteria and the embryo may affect the development of the lizards.

The importance of the intestinal microbiota in humans and dogs in the neonatal period

The neonatal period represents a critical stage for the establishment and development of the gut microbiota, which profoundly influences the future health trajectory of individuals. This review examines the importance of intestinal microbiota in humans and dogs, aiming to elucidate the distinct characteristics and variations in the composition between these two species. In humans, the intestinal microbiota contributes to several crucial physiological processes, including digestion, nutrient absorption, immune system development, and modulation of host metabolism. Dysbiosis, an imbalance or disruption of the gut microbial community, has been linked to various disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and even neurological conditions. Furthermore, recent research has unveiled the profound influence of the gut-brain axis, emphasizing the bidirectional communication between the gut microbiota and the central nervous system, impacting cognitive function and mental health. Similarly, alterations in the canine intestinal microbiota have been associated with gastrointestinal disorders, including chronic enteropathy, such as inflammatory bowel disease, food allergies, and ulcerative histiocytic colitis. However, our understanding of the intricacies and functional significance of the intestinal microbiota in dogs remains limited. Understanding the complex dynamics of the intestinal microbiota in both humans and dogs is crucial for devising effective strategies to promote health and manage disease. Moreover, exploring the similarities and differences in the gut microbial composition between these two species can facilitate translational research, potentially leading to innovative therapeutic interventions and strategies to enhance the well-being of both humans and dogs.

Effects of Bacillus licheniformis on the Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, Ileal Morphology, Intestinal Short Chain Fatty Acids, and Colonic Microflora in Piglets Challenged with Lipopolysaccharide

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of Bacillus licheniformis (BL) on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, ileal morphology, intestinal fecal short-chain fatty acids, and microflora of weaned piglets challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Piglets were assigned into three groups: basal diet (Con), a basal diet with added 10⁹ CFU B. licheniformis/kg (BLl), and a basal diet with added 10¹⁰ CFU B. licheniformis/kg (BLh). On day 28, BLh piglets were intraperitoneally injected with LPS (CBL) and sterilized saline water (BL), Con piglets were injected with LPS (LPS) and sterilized saline water (Con), with the injections being administered for three consecutive days. The average daily gain significantly increased from day 1 to day 28 and the feed: gain ratio decreased with BL supplementation compared with the Con group. Supplementation with BLl and BLh reduced the diarrhea rate in piglets. Serum catalase activity increased and malondialdehyde concentration decreased in the CBL treatment group compared with the LPS treatment group. Both BL and CBL treatments increased the ileal villus length/crypt depth ratio compared with Con and LPS treatments. BL administration significantly increased colonic propionic and isobutyric acid concentrations compared with Con treatment. Both BL and CBL piglets had significantly increased fecal acetic, propionic, and butyric acid levels compared with LPS piglets. Analysis of the colonic microbial metagenome showed that Prevotella species were the predominant bacteria in piglets treated with BL and CBL. The CBL-treated piglets had higher scores for lysine biosynthesis, arginine biosynthesis, sulfur relay system, and histidine metabolism. BL-treated piglets had higher scores for glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis-keratan sulfate, oxidative phosphorylation, and pyruvate and carbon metabolism.

When it doesn't run in the blood(vessels) - events involved in vascular disorders

In the current issue of the Biomedical Journal the underlying pathology of hemodynamic compromise in acute small subcortical infarction are elucidated. A follow-up study in patients with childhood Kawasaki disease is presented, as well as an insight into the gradually decreasing antigen expression in cases of acute myeloid leukemia. Furthermore this issue provides an exciting update concerning COVID-19 and the use of CRISPR-Cas, a review about computational approaches in the research of kidney stone formation, factors connected to central precocious puberty, and why a rock star of paleogenetics recently received a Nobel Prize. Additionally, this issue contains an article proposing the repurposing of the lung cancer drug Capmatinib, a study of how the gut microbiome develops in neonates, an impulse about the role of the transmembrane protein TMED3 in esophageal carcinoma, and the revelation about how competing endogenous RNA influences ischemic stroke. Lastly, genetic reasons for male infertility are discussed, as well as the relation between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and chronic kidney disease.

Involvement of the human microbiome in frequent cancers, current knowledge and carcinogenesis mechanisms

The human body is home to a complex microbial community, living in symbiosis. However, when an imbalance occurs, known as dysbiosis, it can lead to organic diseases such as cancers. Helicobacter pylori is commonly recognized as the causative agent of gastric cancer. Numerous studies have explored the potential role of other microorganisms in cancers. For example, the role of intestinal microbiota in the hepatocellular carcinoma formation and progression, the microbiota in breast cancer and the interaction between the microbiome and TP53 in human lung carcinogenesis. In this review, we highlight the latest findings on the microbiome involved in the most common cancers and the suggested mechanisms of carcinogenesis.

Is there a placental microbiota? A critical review and re-analysis of published placental microbiota datasets

The existence of a placental microbiota is debated. The human placenta has historically been considered sterile and microbial colonization was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Yet, recent DNA sequencing investigations reported a microbiota in typical human term placentas. However, this detected microbiota could represent background DNA or delivery-associated contamination. Using fifteen publicly available 16S rRNA gene datasets, existing data were uniformly re-analyzed with DADA2 to maximize comparability. While Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) identified as Lactobacillus, a typical vaginal bacterium, were highly abundant and prevalent across studies, this prevalence disappeared after applying likely  DNA contaminant removal to placentas from term cesarean deliveries. A six-study sub-analysis targeting the 16S rRNA gene V4 hypervariable region demonstrated that bacterial profiles of placental samples and technical controls share principal bacterial ASVs and that placental samples clustered primarily by study origin and mode of delivery. Contemporary DNA-based evidence does not support the existence of a placental microbiota.ImportanceEarly-gestational microbial influences on human development are unclear. By applying DNA sequencing technologies to placental tissue, bacterial DNA signals were observed, leading some to conclude that a live bacterial placental microbiome exists in typical term pregnancy. However, the low-biomass nature of the proposed microbiome and high sensitivity of current DNA sequencing technologies indicate that the signal may alternatively derive from environmental or delivery-associated bacterial DNA contamination. Here we address these alternatives with a re-analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequencing data from 15 publicly available placental datasets. After identical DADA2 pipeline processing of the raw data, subanalyses were performed to control for mode of delivery and environmental DNA contamination. Both environment and mode of delivery profoundly influenced the bacterial DNA signal from term-delivered placentas. Aside from these contamination-associated signals, consistency was lacking across studies. Thus, placentas delivered at term are unlikely to be the original source of observed bacterial DNA signals.

The Endometrial Microbiota—16S rRNA Gene Sequence Signatures in Healthy, Pregnant and Endometritis Dairy Cows

Endometritis is one of the most important causes of infertility in dairy cows, resulting in high economic losses in the dairy industry. Though the presence of a commensal uterine microbiota is now well established, the complex role of these bacteria in genital health, fertility, and susceptibility to uterine diseases remains unclear. In this study, we explore the endometrial microbiota through 16S rRNA gene profiling from cytobrush samples taken ex vivo from healthy, pregnant, and endometritis cows. There were no significant differences between healthy and pregnant cows, whose uterine microbiota were dominated by Streptococcus, Pseudomonas, Fusobacterium, Lactococcus and Bacteroides. Compared to pregnant and clinically healthy cows, the uterine bacterial community of endometritis cows was significantly decreased in species diversity (p < 0.05), reflecting uneven community composition in different patterns with either dominance of Escherichia-Shigella, Histophilus, Bacteroides and Porphyromonas or Actinobacteria.

Gut bacteriome, mycobiome and virome alterations in rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic destructive autoimmune disease of the joints which causes significant pain, functional disability, and mortality. Although aberrant immune cell activation induced by the imbalance between T helper Th1/Th17 and Treg cells is implicated in the RA development, its etiopathogenesis remains unclear. The presence of mucosal inflammation and systemic IgA-isotype-autoantibodies (anti-citrullinated peptide antibodies and rheumatoid factor) in pre-clinical RA supports the mucosal origin hypothesis involving altered microbiota in disease development. The gut microbiota comprises diverse bacteria, fungal and viral components, which are critical in developing host immunity. Alterations in microbial abundance are known to exacerbate or attenuate immune responses in the gut microenvironment subsequently affecting the joints. Further, these changes can provide biomarkers for disease activity and outcome in RA. Most of the research till date has been focused on describing gut bacterial components in RA. Studies on gut mycobiome and virome components in RA are relatively new and burgeoning field. Given the paucity of mycobiome or virome specific studies in RA, this review, discusses the recent findings on alterations in gut bacterial, fungal, and viral components as well as their role in regulating the spectrum of immune-pathogenic events occurring in RA which might be explored in future as a potential therapeutic target. Further, we provide an overview on inter-kingdom interactions between bacteria, fungi, and viruses in RA. The current understanding on gut microbiota modulation for managing RA is also summarised.

Understanding the Predictive Potential of the Oral Microbiome in the Development and Progression of Early Childhood Caries

BACKGROUND

Early childhood caries (ECC) is the most common chronic disease in young children and a public health problem worldwide. It is characterized by the presence of atypical and fast progressive caries lesions. The aggressive form of ECC, severe early childhood caries (S-ECC), can lead to the destruction of the whole crown of most of the deciduous teeth and cause pain and sepsis, affecting the child's quality of life. Although the multifactorial etiology of ECC is known, including social, environmental, behavioral, and genetic determinants, there is a consensus that this disease is driven by an imbalance between the oral microbiome and host, or dysbiosis, mediated by high sugar consumption and poor oral hygiene. Knowledge of the microbiome in healthy and caries status is crucial for risk monitoring, prevention, and development of therapies to revert dysbiosis and restore oral health. Molecular biology tools, including next-generation sequencing methods and proteomic approaches, have led to the discovery of new species and microbial biomarkers that could reveal potential risk profiles for the development of ECC and new targets for anti-caries therapies. This narrative review summarized some general aspects of ECC, such as definition, epidemiology, and etiology, the influence of oral microbiota in the development and progression of ECC based on the current evidence from genomics, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic studies and the effect of antimicrobial intervention on oral microbiota associated with ECC.

CONCLUSION

The evaluation of genetic and proteomic markers represents a promising approach to predict the risk of ECC before its clinical manifestation and plan efficient therapeutic interventions for ECC in its initial stages, avoiding irreversible dental cavitation.

Ameliorative Effects of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis J-12 on Hyperglycemia in Pregnancy and Pregnancy Outcomes in a High-Fat-Diet/Streptozotocin-Induced Rat Model

Bifidobacterium, a common probiotic, is widely used in the food industry. Hyperglycemia in pregnancy has become a common disease that impairs the health of the mother and can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preeclampsia, macrosomia, fetal hyperinsulinemia, and perinatal death. Currently, Bifidobacterium has been shown to have the potential to mitigate glycolipid derangements. Therefore, the use of Bifidobacterium-based probiotics to interfere with hyperglycemia in pregnancy may be a promising therapeutic option. We aimed to determine the potential effects of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis J-12 (J-12) in high-fat diet (HFD)/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced rats with hyperglycemia in pregnancy (HIP) and respective fetuses. We observed that J-12 or insulin alone failed to significantly improve the fasting blood glucose (FBG) level and oral glucose tolerance; however, combining J-12 and insulin significantly reduced the FBG level during late pregnancy. Moreover, J-12 significantly decreased triglycerides and total cholesterol, relieved insulin and leptin resistance, activated adiponectin, and restored the morphology of the maternal pancreas and hepatic tissue of HIP-induced rats. Notably, J-12 ingestion ameliorated fetal physiological parameters and skeletal abnormalities. HIP-induced cardiac, renal, and hepatic damage in fetuses was significantly alleviated in the J-12-alone intake group, and it downregulated hippocampal mRNA expression of insulin receptor (InsR) and insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) and upregulated AKT mRNA on postnatal day 0, indicating that J-12 improved fetal neurological health. Furthermore, placental tissue damage in rats with HIP appeared to be in remission in the J-12 group. Upon exploring specific placental microbiota, we observed that J-12 affected the abundance of nine genera, positively correlating with FBG and leptin in rats and hippocampal mRNA levels of InsR and IGF-1R mRNA in the fetus, while negatively correlating with adiponectin in rats and hippocampal levels of AKT in the fetus. These results suggest that J-12 may affect the development of the fetal central nervous system by mediating placental microbiota via the regulation of maternal-related indicators. J-12 is a promising strategy for improving HIP and pregnancy outcomes.

Adaptive sampling during sequencing reveals the origins of the bovine reproductive tract microbiome across reproductive stages and sexes

Cattle enterprises are one of the major livestock production systems globally and are forecasted to have stable growth in the next decade. To facilitate sustainable live weight production, optimal reproductive performance is essential. Microbial colonisation in the reproductive tract has been demonstrated as one of the factors contributing to bovine reproductive performance. Studies also implied that reproductive metagenomes are different at each stage of the estrous cycle. This study applied Oxford Nanopore Technologies’ adaptive long-read sequencing to profile the bovine reproductive microbiome collected from tropical cattle in northern Queensland, Australia. The microbiome samples were collected from cattle of different sexes, reproductive status and locations to provide a comprehensive view of the bovine reproductive microbiome in northern Australian cattle. Ascomycota, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were abundant phyla identified in the bovine reproductive metagenomes of Australian cattle regardless of sexes, reproductive status and location. The species level taxonomical investigation suggested that gastrointestinal metagenome and the surrounding environment were potentially the origins of the bovine reproductive metagenome. Functional profiles further affirmed this implication, revealing that the reproductive metagenomes of the prepubertal and postpartum animals were dominated by microorganisms that catabolise dietary polysaccharides as an energy substrate while that of the pregnant animals had the function of harvesting energy from aromatic compounds. Bovine reproductive metagenome investigations can be employed to trace the origins of abnormal metagenomes, which is beneficial for disease prevention and control. Additionally, our results demonstrated different reproductive metagenome diversities between cattle from two different locations. The variation in diversity within one location can serve as the indicator of abnormal reproductive metagenome, but between locations inferences cannot be made. We suggest establishing localised metagenomic indices that can be used to infer abnormal reproductive metagenomes which contribute to abortion or sub-fertility.

Gut microbiota development in the growing dog: A dynamic process influenced by maternal, environmental and host factors

Microorganisms of the gastrointestinal tract play a crucial role in the health, metabolism and development of their host by modulating vital functions such as digestion, production of key metabolites or stimulation of the immune system. This review aims to provide an overview on the current knowledge of factors shaping the gut microbiota of young dogs. The composition of the gut microbiota is modulated by many intrinsic (i.e., age, physiology, pathology) and extrinsic factors (i.e., nutrition, environment, medication) which can cause both beneficial and harmful effects depending on the nature of the changes. The composition of the gut microbiota is quickly evolving during the early development of the dog, and some crucial bacteria, mostly anaerobic, progressively colonize the gut before the puppy reaches adulthood. Those bacterial communities are of paramount importance for the host health, with disturbance in their composition potentially leading to altered metabolic states such as acute diarrhea or inflammatory bowel disease. While many studies focused on the microbiota of young children, there is still a lack of knowledge concerning the development of gut microbiota in puppies. Understanding this early evolution is becoming a key aspect to improve dogs' short and long-term health and wellbeing.

The healthy equine uterus harbors a distinct core microbiome plus a rich and diverse microbiome that varies with geographical location

The goal of this study was to understand the composition and existence of the resident uterine microbiome in healthy mares and to establish the presence of a core microbiome for the healthy equine uterus. We analyzed the microbiomes of 35 healthy mares that are long-time residents of three farms in Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Australia as well as that of 19 mares purchased from scattered owners in the Southern Mid-Western states of the United States. Over 6 million paired-end reads of the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene were obtained resulting in 19,542 unique Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs). ASVs were assigned to 17 known phyla and 213 known genera. Most abundant genera across all animals were Pseudomonas (27%) followed by Lonsdalea (8%), Lactobacillus (7.5%), Escherichia/Shigella (4.5%), and Prevotella (3%). Oklahoma and Louisiana samples were dominated by Pseudomonas (75%). Lonsdalea (28%) was the most abundant genus in the Australian samples but was not found in any other region. Microbial diversity, richness, and evenness of the equine uterine microbiome is largely dependent on the geographical location of the animal. However, we observed a core uterine microbiome consisting of Lactobacillus, Escherichia/Shigella, Streptococcus, Blautia, Staphylococcus, Klebsiella, Acinetobacter, and Peptoanaerobacter.

Role of Intestinal Dysbiosis and Nutrition in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic systemic immune-mediated disease caused by genetic and environmental factors. It is often characterized by the generation of autoantibodies that lead to synovial inflammation and eventual multi-joint destruction. A growing number of studies have shown significant differences in the gut microbiota composition of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients compared to healthy controls. Environmental factors, and changes in diet and nutrition are thought to play a role in developing this dysbiosis. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge of intestinal dysbiosis, the role of nutritional factors, and its implications in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmunity. The future direction focuses on developing microbiome manipulation therapeutics for RA disease management.

Comparing the maternal-fetal microbiome of humans and cattle: a translational assessment of the reproductive, placental, and fetal gut microbiomes

An analysis of sites within the maternal reproductive microbiome that potentially contribute to fetal gut microbial colonization, with a special focus on the comparison between humans and cattle.

Maternal probiotics supplementation improves immune and antioxidant function in suckling piglets via modifying gut microbiota

AIM

Probiotics could improve the health, growth and development of host or their fetuses/offspring via regulating gut microbiota. The present study was conducted to determine the effects of maternal probiotics supplementation on gut microbiota and metabolites of sows and their suckling piglets, as well as plasma biochemical parameters, oxidative/anti-oxidative indexes, and inflammatory cytokine levels of suckling piglets.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 32 pregnant Bama mini-pigs were selected and randomly divided into two groups. The sows were fed a basal diet (control group) or a basal diet supplemented with probiotics (probiotics group) from mating to day 21 of lactation. Samples from sows were collected on day 105 of pregnancy and day 21 of lactation and from piglets on day 21 of lactation. The results showed that probiotics supplementation increased the fecal abundances of Ruminococcus, Bacteroides, and Anaeroplasma and decreased Tenericutes on day 105 of pregnancy, while increased the abundances of Actinobacteria and Anaerostipes and decreased Proteobacteria and Desulfovibrio on day 21 of lactation. In addition, probiotics supplementation decreased the fecal levels of tryptamine, putrescine, and cadaverine on day 105 of pregnancy and isovalerate and skatole on day 21 of lactation, while increased butyrate level on day 21 of lactation. Further studies showed that maternal probiotics supplementation decreased the plasma levels of AMM, TC, LDL-C, Ala, Tau, MDA, H₂ O₂ , IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and IFN-α of suckling piglets. Moreover, maternal probiotics supplementation increased the abundances of Deferribacteres, Fusobacteria, and Fusobacterium, while decreased Anaerostipes in piglet's colon. The Spearman's correlation analysis revealed a potential link between gut microbiota alterations and their metabolites.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary probiotics supplementation during pregnancy and lactation periods could improve sow status, alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation response, and improve nutrient metabolism of piglets by altering the gut microbiota.

Oxytocin ameliorates KCC2 decrease induced by oral bacteria-derived LPS that affect rat primary cultured cells and PC-12 cells

Inflammation, especially neuroinflammation, which is caused by stress, leads to central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction. Because lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) cause neuroinflammation, we investigated the effect of LPSs to CNS. In PC-12 cells, LPSs derived from oral bacteria reduced the expression of KCC2, a Cl^- transporter. LPS derived from P. gingivalis (P. g) administered to rat primary cultured cells also reduced the KCC2 expression. However, LPSs derived from E. coli did not reduce the KCC2 expression. LPS treatment activated TLR4, IL-1β, and REST gene expressions, which led to KCC2 inactivation in PC-12 cells. The mechanism of KCC2 has been shown to play an important role in brain maturation, function (such as the GABA switch), and behavioral problems, we investigated the GABA function. We found that the GABA function was changed from inhibitory to excitatory by the LPS derived from P. g treatment. We demonstrated that the GSK3β also involved in the KCC2 reduction by LPS treatment. We show that oxytocin rescued the reduction in KCC2 expression caused by LPSs by inhibiting GSK3β signaling but vasopressin could not. Considered together, our results indicate that the LPSs from oral bacteria but not the LPS from E. coli increase the risk for brain disorders and oxytocin might be a candidate to overcome the abnormal behavior caused by brain disorders such as psychiatric disorders.

Antibiotic Exposure, Common Morbidities and Main Intestinal Microbial Groups in Very Preterm Neonates: A Pilot Study

Prematurity exposes newborns to increased risks of infections and it is associated with critical morbidities. Preterm infants often require antibiotic therapies that can affect the correct establishment of gut microbiota. The aim of this study was to investigate targeted intestinal bacteria in preterm neonates with common morbidities and receiving antibiotic treatments of variable duration. Stool samples were collected after birth, at 15, 30 and 90 days of life. qPCR quantification of selected microbial groups (Bifidobacterium spp., Bacteroides fragilis group, Enterobacteriaceae, Clostridium cluster I and total bacteria) was performed and correlation between their levels, the duration of antibiotic treatment and different clinical conditions was studied. An increasing trend over time was observed for all microbial groups, especially for Bifdobacterium spp. Prolonged exposure to antibiotics in the first weeks of life affected Clostridium and B. fragilis levels, but these changes no longer persisted at 90 days of life. Variations of bacterial counts were associated with the length of hospital stay, feeding and mechanical ventilation. Late-onset sepsis and patent ductus arteriosus reduced the counts of Bifidobacterium, whereas B. fragilis was influenced by compromised respiratory conditions. This study can be a start point for the identification of microbial biomarkers associated with some common morbidities and tailored strategies for a healthy microbial development.

Dominant bacteria and influencing factors of early intestinal colonization in very low birth weight infants: A prospective cohort study

Background

The intestine of newborns is colonized by bacteria immediately after birth. This study explored dominant bacteria and influencing factors of early intestinal colonization in the early life of very low birth weight infants (VLBWI).

Methods

We enrolled 81 VLBWI and collected anal swabs at 24 h, 7th, 14th and 21st day after birth. We conducted bacterial culture for anal swabs, then selected the colony with obvious growth advantages in the plate for further culture and identification. Afterward, we analyzed the distribution and influencing factors of intestinal dominant microbiota combined with clinical data.

Results

A total of 300 specimens were collected, of which 62.67% (188/300) had obvious dominant bacteria, including 29.26% (55/188) Gram‐positive bacteria and 70.74% (133/188) Gram‐negative bacteria. The top five bacteria with the highest detection rates were Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecium, Enterococcus faecalis and Serratia marcescens. Meconium‐stained amniotic fluid and chorioamnionitis were correlated with intestinal bacterial colonization within 24 h of birth. Mechanical ventilation and antibiotics were independent risk factors affecting colonization. Nosocomial infection of K. pneumoniae and S. marcescens were associated with intestinal colonization. The colonization rates of K. pneumoniae, E. coli, E. faecium, and E. faecalis increased with the birth time.

Conclusions

The colonization rate in the early life of VLBWI increased over time and the predominant bacteria were Gram‐negative bacteria. Meconium‐stained amniotic fluid and chorioamnionitis affect intestinal colonization in early life. Mechanical ventilation and antibiotics were independent risk factors for intestinal bacterial colonization. The nosocomial infection of some bacteria was significantly related to intestinal colonization.

Immune-microbiome interplay and its implications in neurodegenerative disorders

The neurodegeneration and its related CNS pathologies need an urgent toolbox to minimize the global mental health burden. The neuroimmune system critically regulates the brain maturation and survival of neurons across the nervous system. The chronic manipulated immunological drive can accelerate the neuronal pathology hence promoting the burden of neurodegenerative disorders. The gut is home for trillions of microorganisms having a mutual relationship with the host system. The gut-brain axis is a unique biochemical pathway through which the gut residing microbes connects with the brain cells and regulates various physiological and pathological cascades. The gut microbiota and CNS communicate using a common language that synchronizes the tuning of immune cells. The intestinal gut microbial community has a profound role in the maturation of the immune system as well as the development of the nervous system. We have critically summarised the clinical and preclinical reports from the past a decade emphasising that the significant changes in gut microbiota can enhance the host susceptibility towards neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, we have discussed how the gut microbiota-mediated immune response inclines the host physiology towards neurodegeneration and indicated the gut microbiota as a potential future candidate for the management of neurodegenerative disorders.

Assessing the involvement of the placental microbiome and virome in preeclampsia using non coding RNA sequencing

OBJECTIVES

Preeclampsia is a dangerous pregnancy complication. The source of preeclampsia is unknown, though the placenta is believed to have a central role in its pathogenesis. An association between maternal infection and preeclampsia has been demonstrated, yet the involvement of the placental microbiome in the etiology of preeclampsia has not been determined. In this study, we examined whether preeclampsia is associated with an imbalanced microorganism composition in the placenta.

METHODS

To this end, we developed a novel method for the identification of bacteria/viruses based on sequencing of small non-coding RNA, which increases the microorganism-to-host ratio, this being a major challenge in microbiome methods. We validated the method on various infected tissues and demonstrated its efficiency in detecting microorganisms in samples with extremely low bacterial/viral biomass. We then applied the method to placenta specimens from preeclamptic and healthy pregnancies. Since the placenta is a remarkably large and heterogeneous organ, we explored the bacterial and viral RNA at each of 15 distinct locations.

RESULTS

Bacterial RNA was detected at all locations and was consistent with previous studies of the placental microbiome, though without significant differences between the preeclampsia and control groups. Nevertheless, the bacterial RNA composition differed significantly between various areas of the placenta. Viral RNA was detected in extremely low quantities, below the threshold of significance, thus viral abundance could not be determined.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the bacterial and viral abundance in the placenta may have only limited involvement in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. The evidence of a heterogenic bacterial RNA composition in the various placental locations warrants further investigation to capture the true nature of the placental microbiome.

Interactions between the Gut Microbiome, Lung Conditions, and Coronary Heart Disease and How Probiotics Affect These

The importance of a healthy microbiome cannot be overemphasized. Disturbances in its composition can lead to a variety of symptoms that can extend to other organs. Likewise, acute or chronic conditions in other organs can affect the composition and physiology of the gut microbiome. Here, we discuss interorgan communication along the gut–lung axis, as well as interactions between lung and coronary heart diseases and between cardiovascular disease and the gut microbiome. This triangle of organs, which also affects the clinical outcome of COVID-19 infections, is connected by means of numerous receptors and effectors, including immune cells and immune-modulating factors such as short chain fatty acids (SCFA) and trimethlamine–N–oxide (TMAO). The gut microbiome plays an important role in each of these, thus affecting the health of the lungs and the heart, and this interplay occurs in both directions. The gut microbiome can be influenced by the oral uptake of probiotics. With an improved understanding of the mechanisms responsible for interorgan communication, we can start to define what requirements an ‘ideal’ probiotic should have and its role in this triangle.

Relationship between sleep disorders and gut dysbiosis: what affects what?

Sleep plays a fundamental role in maintaining good psycho-physical health, it can influence hormone levels, mood, and weight. Recent studies, focused on the interconnection between intestinal microbiome and sleep disorders, have shown the growing importance of a healthy and balanced intestinal microbiome for the hosts health. Normally, gut microbiota and his host are linked by mutualistic relationship, that in some conditions, can be compromised by shifts in microbiota's composition, called dysbiosis. Both sleep problems and dysbiosis of the gut microbiome can lead to metabolic disorders and, in this review, we will explore what is present in literature on the link between sleep pathologies and intestinal dysbiosis.

The maternal gut microbiome during pregnancy and offspring allergy and asthma

Environmental exposures during pregnancy that alter both the maternal gut microbiome and the infant's risk of allergic disease and asthma include a traditional farm environment and consumption of unpasteurized cow's milk, antibiotic use, dietary fiber and psychosocial stress. Multiple mechanisms acting in concert may underpin these associations and prime the infant to acquire immune competence and homeostasis following exposure to the extrauterine environment. Cellular and metabolic products of the maternal gut microbiome can promote the expression of microbial pattern recognition receptors, as well as thymic and bone marrow hematopoiesis relevant to regulatory immunity. At birth, transmission of maternally derived bacteria likely leverages this in utero programming to accelerate postnatal transition from a Th2 to Th1 and Th17 dominant immune phenotypes and maturation of regulatory immune mechanisms, which in turn reduce the child's risk of allergic disease and asthma. Although our understanding of these phenomena is rapidly evolving, the field is relatively nascent, and we are yet to translate existing knowledge into interventions that substantially reduce disease risk in humans. Here we review evidence that the maternal gut microbiome impacts the offspring's risk of allergic disease and asthma, discuss challenges and future directions for the field, and propose the hypothesis that maternal carriage of Prevotella copri during pregnancy decreases the offspring's risk of allergic disease via production of succinate which in turn promotes bone marrow myelopoiesis of dendritic cell precursors in the fetus.

Viruses and Type 1 Diabetes: From Enteroviruses to the Virome

For over a century, viruses have left a long trail of evidence implicating them as frequent suspects in the development of type 1 diabetes. Through vigorous interrogation of viral infections in individuals with islet autoimmunity and type 1 diabetes using serological and molecular virus detection methods, as well as mechanistic studies of virus-infected human pancreatic β-cells, the prime suspects have been narrowed down to predominantly human enteroviruses. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of evidence supporting the hypothesised role of enteroviruses in the development of islet autoimmunity and type 1 diabetes. We also discuss concerns over the historical focus and investigation bias toward enteroviruses and summarise current unbiased efforts aimed at characterising the complete population of viruses (the “virome”) contributing early in life to the development of islet autoimmunity and type 1 diabetes. Finally, we review the range of vaccine and antiviral drug candidates currently being evaluated in clinical trials for the prevention and potential treatment of type 1 diabetes.

New Insights Into Microbiota Modulation-Based Nutritional Interventions for Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Preterm Infants

Gut microbiota and the central nervous system have parallel developmental windows during pre and post-natal life. Increasing evidences suggest that intestinal dysbiosis in preterm infants predisposes the neonate to adverse neurological outcomes later in life. Understanding the link between gut microbiota colonization and brain development to tailor therapies aimed at optimizing initial colonization and microbiota development are promising strategies to warrant adequate brain development and enhance neurological outcomes in preterm infants. Breast-feeding has been associated with both adequate cognitive development and healthy microbiota in preterms. Infant formula are industrially produced substitutes for infant nutrition that do not completely recapitulate breast-feeding benefices and could be largely improved by the understanding of the role of breast milk components upon gut microbiota. In this review, we will first discuss the nutritional and bioactive component information on breast milk composition and its contribution to the assembly of the neonatal gut microbiota in preterms. We will then discuss the emerging pathways connecting the gut microbiota and brain development. Finally, we will discuss the promising microbiota modulation-based nutritional interventions (including probiotic and prebiotic supplementation of infant formula and maternal nutrition) for improving neurodevelopmental outcomes.

The ocular microbiome and microbiota and their effects on ocular surface pathophysiology and disorders

The ocular surface flora perform an important role in the defense mechanisms of the ocular surface system. Its regulation of the immunological activity and the barrier effect against pathogen invasion are remarkable. Composition of the flora differs according to the methods of investigation, because the microbiome, composed of the genetic material of bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa, and eukaryotes on the ocular surface, differs from the microbiota, which are the community of microorganisms that colonize the ocular surface. The observed composition of the ocular surface flora depends on harvesting and examining methods, whether with traditional culture or with more refined genetic analysis based on rRNA and DNA sequencing. Environment, diet, sex, and age influence the microbial flora composition, thus complicating the analysis of the baseline status. Moreover, potentially pathogenic organisms can affect its composition, as do various disorders, including chronic inflammation, and therapies applied to the ocular surface. A better understanding of the composition and function of microbial communities at the ocular surface could bring new insights and clarify the epidemiology and pathology of ocular surface dynamics in health and disease. The purpose of this review is to provide an up-to-date overview of knowledge about this topic.

The Potential Role of Nonhuman Primate Models to Better Comprehend Early Life Immunity and Maternal Antibody Transfer

Early life immunity is a complex field of research and there are still gaps in knowledge regarding the detailed mechanism of maternal antibody transfer, the impact of maternal antibodies on infant vaccine responses and the ontogeny of human early life immunity. A comprehensive understanding is necessary to identify requirements for early life vaccines and to improve early childhood immunization. New immunological methods have facilitated performing research in the youngest, however, some questions can only be addressed in animal models. To date, mostly murine models are used to study neonatal and infant immunity since they are well-described, easy to use and cost effective. Given their limitations especially in the transfer biology of maternal antibodies and the lack of infectivity of numerous human pathogens, this opinion piece discusses the potential and prerequisites of the nonhuman primate model in studying early life immunity and maternal antibody transfer.

When a Neonate Is Born, So Is a Microbiota

In recent years, the role of human microbiota as a short- and long-term health promoter and modulator has been affirmed and progressively strengthened. In the course of one’s life, each subject is colonized by a great number of bacteria, which constitute its specific and individual microbiota. Human bacterial colonization starts during fetal life, in opposition to the previous paradigm of the “sterile womb”. Placenta, amniotic fluid, cord blood and fetal tissues each have their own specific microbiota, influenced by maternal health and habits and having a decisive influence on pregnancy outcome and offspring outcome. The maternal microbiota, especially that colonizing the genital system, starts to influence the outcome of pregnancy already before conception, modulating fertility and the success rate of fertilization, even in the case of assisted reproduction techniques. During the perinatal period, neonatal microbiota seems influenced by delivery mode, drug administration and many other conditions. Special attention must be reserved for early neonatal nutrition, because breastfeeding allows the transmission of a specific and unique lactobiome able to modulate and positively affect the neonatal gut microbiota. Our narrative review aims to investigate the currently identified pre- and peri-natal factors influencing neonatal microbiota, before conception, during pregnancy, pre- and post-delivery, since the early microbiota influences the whole life of each subject.

Correlation between the Antimicrobial Activity and Metabolic Profiles of Cell Free Supernatants and Membrane Vesicles Produced by Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938

The aim of the work is to assess the antimicrobial activities of Cell Free Supernatants (CFS) and Membrane Vesicles (MVs), produced by Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, versus Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and investigate their metabolic profiles. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration was determined through the broth microdilution method and cell proliferation assay while the Minimum Bactericidal Concentration was determined by Colony Forming Units counts. The characteristics of the antimicrobial compounds were evaluated by pH adjustments, proteinase treatment, and size fractionation of the CFS. The cytotoxicity of CFS was tested on two human cell lines. A detailed snapshot of the L. reuteri metabolism was attained through an untargeted metabolic profiling by means of high resolution Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) coupled with Electrospray Ionization Source (ESI). The results showed (i) a greater efficacy of CFS and its fractions towards Gram-negative compared to Gram-positive bacteria; (ii) an antimicrobial effect related to pH-dependent compounds but not to MVs; (iii) a molecular weight < 3 KDa as well as an a non-proteinaceous nature of the antimicrobial compounds; and (iv) more than 200 and 500 putative metabolites annotated in MVs and supernatants, covering several classes of metabolites, including amino acids, lipids, fatty and organic acids, polyalcohols, nucleotides, and vitamins. Some putative compounds were proposed not only as characteristic of specific fractions, but also possibly involved in antimicrobial activity.

The development of the human uterus: morphogenesis to menarche

There is emerging evidence that early uterine development in humans is an important determinant of conditions such as ontogenetic progesterone resistance, menstrual preconditioning, defective deep placentation and pre-eclampsia in young adolescents. A key observation is the relative infrequency of neonatal uterine bleeding and hormone withdrawal at birth. The origin of the uterus from the fusion of the two paramesonephric, or Müllerian, ducts was described almost 200 years ago. The uterus forms around the 10th week of foetal life. The uterine corpus and the cervix react differently to the circulating steroid hormones during pregnancy. Adult uterine proportions are not attained until after puberty. It is unclear if the endometrial microbiome and immune response-which are areas of growing interest in the adult-play a role in the early stages of uterine development. The aim is to review the phases of uterine development up until the onset of puberty in order to trace the origin of abnormal development and to assess current knowledge for features that may be linked to conditions encountered later in life. The narrative review incorporates literature searches of Medline, PubMed and Scopus using the broad terms individually and then in combination: uterus, development, anatomy, microscopy, embryology, foetus, (pre)-puberty, menarche, microbiome and immune cells. Identified articles were assessed manually for relevance, any linked articles and historical textbooks. We included some animal studies of molecular mechanisms. There are competing theories about the contributions of the Müllerian and Wolffian ducts to the developing uterus. Endometrium features are suggestive of an oestrogen effect at 16-20 weeks gestation. The discrepancy in the reported expression of oestrogen receptor is likely to be related to the higher sensitivity of more recent techniques. Primitive endometrial glands appear around 20 weeks. Features of progestogen action are expressed late in the third trimester. Interestingly, progesterone receptor expression is higher at mid-gestation than at birth when features of endometrial maturation are rare. Neonatal uterine bleeding occurs in around 5% of neonates. Myometrial differentiation progresses from the mesenchyme surrounding the endometrium at the level of the cervix. During infancy, the uterus and endometrium remain inactive. The beginning of uterine growth precedes the onset of puberty and continues for several years after menarche. Uterine anomalies may result from fusion defects or atresia of one or both Müllerian ducts. Organogenetic differentiation of Müllerian epithelium to form the endometrial and endocervical epithelium may be independent of circulating steroids. A number of genes have been identified that are involved in endometrial and myometrial differentiation although gene mutations have not been demonstrated to be common in cases of uterine malformation. The role, if any, of the microbiome in relation to uterine development remains speculative. Modern molecular techniques applied to rodent models have enhanced our understanding of uterine molecular mechanisms and their interactions. However, little is known about functional correlates or features with relevance to adult onset of uterine disease in humans. Prepubertal growth and development lends itself to non-invasive diagnostics such as ultrasound and MRI. Increased awareness of the occurrence of neonatal uterine bleeding and of the potential impact on adult onset disease may stimulate renewed research in this area.

Is there evidence for bacterial transfer via the placenta and any role in the colonization of the infant gut? - a systematic review

With the important role of the gut microbiome in health and disease, it is crucial to understand key factors that establish the microbial community, including gut colonization during infancy. It has been suggested that the first bacterial exposure is via a placental microbiome. However, despite many publications, the robustness of the evidence for the placental microbiome and transfer of bacteria from the placenta to the infant gut is unclear and hence the concept disputed. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of the evidence for the role of the placental, amniotic fluid and cord blood microbiome in healthy mothers in the colonization of the infant gut. Most of the papers which were fully assessed considered placental tissue, but some studied amniotic fluid or cord blood. Great variability in methodology was observed especially regarding sample storage conditions, DNA/RNA extraction, and microbiome characterization. No study clearly considered transfer of the normal placental microbiome to the infant gut. Moreover, some studies in the review and others published subsequently reported little evidence for a placental microbiome in comparison to negative controls. In conclusion, current data are limited and provide no conclusive evidence that there is a normal placental microbiome which has any role in colonization of infant gut.

Comparison of Blood Loss in Manual and Spontaneous Removal of Placenta in Caesarean Section

Background: Efforts should be made to minimize the blood loss at the time of cesarean section. The techniques used to reduce the blood loss include finger splitting versus scissor cutting of incision, in situ stitching versus exteriorization and stitching of uterus and finally spontaneous or manual removal of the placenta. Objective: The main objective of this study is to correlate the frequency of loss of blood between the placenta removed manually and spontaneously during cesarean section. Methods: Randomized controlled trial in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi. The sample is collected through Consecutive (non- probability) sampling. The study was conducted after approval from the hospital ethical and research committee. Informed written consent was taken from all the patients. The patients were divided into two groups, group A and group B randomly by using random table numbers. Group A had spontaneous placental delivery. Group B had manual placental delivery. Each patient was examined thoroughly and detailed history was taken. Data Analysis: Data was analyzed using SPSS 20 for windows. The frequency and percentage of blood loss were measured. A chi-square test was applied to correlate the blood loss between the two groups. p values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. Effect modifiers like age, gestational age, parity were controlled by stratification. Results: The blood loss was compared between both groups using the chi-square test not assuming null-hypothesis. The blood loss was comparatively high in-group in which the placenta was removed manually (p=0.007). Keywords: Caesarean Section, Placenta removal, Spontaneous, Manual, Blood loss.

The Evolving Microbiome from Pregnancy to Early Infancy: A Comprehensive Review

Pregnancy induces a number of immunological, hormonal, and metabolic changes that are necessary for the mother to adapt her body to this new physiological situation. The microbiome of the mother, the placenta and the fetus influence the fetus growth and undoubtedly plays a major role in the adequate development of the newborn infant. Hence, the microbiome modulates the inflammatory mechanisms related to physiological and pathological processes that are involved in the perinatal progress through different mechanisms. The present review summarizes the actual knowledge related to physiological changes in the microbiota occurring in the mother, the fetus, and the child, both during neonatal period and beyond. In addition, we approach some specific pathological situations during the perinatal periods, as well as the influence of the type of delivery and feeding.

Prenatal establishment of the foal gut microbiota: a critique of the in utero colonisation hypothesis

Bacteria colonisation of the foal’s gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is a critical developmental stage, effecting subsequent immunological and health outcomes. It has long been thought that the equine fetus develops in a sterile intrauterine environment and GIT colonisation commences at birth. Research now suggests that bacteria isolated from amniotic fluid are the initial colonisers of the fetal GIT, and exposure to the dam’s microbiota and the external environment during birth provide supplementary colonisation. This in utero colonisation hypothesis has only recently been examined in the horse and microbiota were detected in the amniotic fluid and meconium of healthy equine pregnancies. This review highlights the possible colonisation routes of these bacteria into the fetal compartments and examines their likely origins from the existing maternal microbiome. However, the current data describing the amniotic microbiota of the horse are limited and there is a need for research to fill this gap. Understanding the significance of intrauterine microbes for foal GIT colonisation may provide strategies to improve neonatal health.

The connection between microbiome and schizophrenia

There has been an accumulation of knowledge about the human microbiome, some detailed investigations of the gastrointestinal microbiota and its functions, and the highlighting of complex interactions between the gut, the gut microbiota, and the central nervous system. That assumes the involvement of the microbiome in the pathogenesis of various CNS diseases, including schizophrenia. Given this information and the fact, that the gut microbiota is sensitive to internal and environmental influences, we have speculated that among the factors that influence the formation and composition of gut microbiota during life, possible key elements in the schizophrenia development chain are hidden where gut microbiota is a linking component. This article aims to describe and understand the developmental relationships between intestinal microbiota and the risk of developing schizophrenia.

The sex-specific interaction of the microbiome in neurodegenerative diseases

Several neurologic diseases exhibit different prevalence and severity in males and females, highlighting the importance of understanding the influence of biologic sex and gender. Beyond host-intrinsic differences in neurologic development and homeostasis, evidence is now emerging that the microbiota is an important environmental factor that may account for differences between men and women in neurologic disease. The gut microbiota is composed of trillions of bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi, that can confer benefits to the host or promote disease. There is bidirectional communication between the intestinal microbiota and the brain that is mediated via immunologic, endocrine, and neural signaling pathways. While there is substantial interindividual variation within the microbiota, differences between males and females can be detected. In animal models, sex-specific microbiota differences can affect susceptibility to chronic diseases. In this review, we discuss the ways in which neurologic diseases may be regulated by the microbiota in a sex-specific manner.

Placental colonization with periodontal pathogens: the potential missing link

Observational studies demonstrate that women with severe periodontitis have a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes like preterm birth and low birthweight. Standard treatment for periodontitis in the form of scaling and root planing during the second trimester failed to reduce the risk of preterm or low birthweight. It is premature to dismiss the association between periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcomes because one explanation for the failure of scaling and root planing to reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes is that periodontal pathogens spread to the placental tissue prior to periodontal treatment. In the placenta, orally derived organisms could cause direct tissue damage or mediate a maternal immune response that impairs the growth of the developing fetus. Sequencing studies demonstrate the presence of organisms derived from the oral microbiome in the placenta, but DNA-based sequencing studies should not be the only technique to evaluate the placental microbiome because they may not detect important shifts in the metabolic capability of the microbiome. In humans, polymerase chain reaction and histology have detected periodontal pathogens in placental tissue in association with multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes. We conclude that both placental and oral microbiomes may play a role in periodontitis-associated adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, the measure to determine the association between periodontal pathogens in the placenta and adverse pregnancy outcomes should be the amount and prevalence, not the mere presence of such microorganisms. Placental colonization with periodontal pathogens thus potentially represents the missing link between periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Composition and maternal origin of the neonatal oral cavity microbiota

Background: The origin of the initial oral microbiota in neonates still remains poorly understood.

Objective: The aim of this study was to understand how the maternal microbiota contributes to the initial neonatal oral microbiota.

Design: Twelve mother-neonate pairs with samples from the maternal oral mucosa, uterine cervix and placenta and the neonatal oral cavity immediately after birth were studied. The microbiota composition and diversity were characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing (V3-V4 region). The microbiota analyses and comparisons were carried out with Calypso software version 8.1 and with SourceTracker 1.0.1.

Results: Samples from the neonatal oral cavity showed moderately high bacterial diversity and low richness. The neonatal oral cavity microbiota seems to share features mainly with the microbes detected in the placenta, followed by the cervical microbiota and the maternal oral microbiota. No statistically significant differences in diversity (Shannon index, p = 0.14), richness (Chao1, p = 0.53) or in microbial composition were observed according to delivery mode.

Conclusion: The neonatal oral cavity microbiota is not significantly modulated by the birth canal or maternal oral microbiota but displays clear associations with microbes in the placenta. These results suggest that the neonatal oral microbiota may have a prenatal origin.

Anatomic Characterization of the Ocular Surface Microbiome in Children

The microbiome is important in the evolution of the immune system in children; however, information is lacking regarding the composition of the pediatric ocular microbiome and its surrounding structures. A prospective, cross-sectional study of the ocular microbiome was conducted in children <18 years old. Samples from the inferior conjunctival fornix of both eyes, eyelid margin, and periocular skin underwent DNA amplification and 16S sequencing using Illumina MiSeq 250. The microbiome was analyzed using Qiime. Statistical analysis was performed using a two-sided Student’s t-test, diversity indices, and principal coordinate analysis. A total of 15 children were enrolled. The ocular surface microbiome was predominantly composed of Proteobacteria, whereas Bacteroidetes dominated the eyelid margin, and Firmicutes dominated the periocular skin. Despite these variations, no statistically significant compositional differences were found with Bray-Curtis analysis. The conjunctiva had the lowest Shannon diversity index with a value of 2.3, which was significantly lower than those of the eyelid margin (3.4, p = 0.01) and the periocular skin (3.5, p = 0.001). However, the evenness of the species using Faith’s phylogenetic diversity index was similar at all sites. Overall, the ocular surface microbiome is dominated by Proteobacteria in children. The niche is similar to the surrounding structures in terms of composition, but has a lower number and relative abundance of species.

Forty-five-year evolution of probiotic therapy

In the past forty-five years, the field of probiotics has grown from a handful of laboratory studies and clinical ideas into a legitimate research and translational entity conferring multiple benefits to humans around the world. This has been founded upon three principles: (i) the need for alterna-tives to drugs that either have sub-optimal efficacy or severe adverse effects; (ii) a growing interest in natural products and microbes, in particular cata-lyzed by studies showing the extent of microbes within humans and on our planet; and (iii) evidence on the genetics and metabolic properties of probi-otic strains, and clinical studies showing their effectiveness. While some man-ufacturers have sadly taken advantage of the market growth to sell supple-ments and foods they term probiotic, without the necessary human study evidence, there are more and more companies basing their formulations on science. Adherence to the definition of what constitutes a probiotic, conclu-sions based on tested products not generalizations of the whole field, and applications emanating from microbiome research identifying new strains that provide benefits, will make the next forty-five years significantly changed approaches to health management. Exciting applications will emerge for car-diovascular, urogenital, respiratory, brain, digestive and skin health, detoxifi-cation, as well as usage across the world's ecosystems.

10-year experience with umbilical cord blood IgE and microbiome therapy

BACKGROUND

The benefit of probiotics in newborn children in relation to allergy and general morbidity later in life appears to be controversial. Allergic diseases represent an increasingly important health problem worldwide in recent years. This is evident in all age groups. The occurrence of allergic illnesses also continues to rise exponentially, and thus the use of preventive and prognostic methods, particularly in children with an inherently higher risk of allergy, is gaining increased importance. Since the advent of probiotics the effect of probiosis on immunity through alterations of composition and function of the human gut microbiome has been increasingly studied. The exact mechanisms have not yet been clearly defined. The Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (The Czech Academy of Sciences has suggested that the expression of TH1 and TH2 cytokines in umbilical blood is associated with an increased risk of allergies. The counter -balance of Th1 and Th2 affect Immunoglobulin E (IgE) production and maturation of the gastrointestinal tract epithelium.

CASE PRESENTATION

We examined IgE levels in 3000 samples of umbilical blood taken from children born into families with a positive history of allergy in one or both parents from 2007 to 2017. At the age of ten days, those with high IgE were given Colinfant Newborn (a lyophilized non-pathogenic strain of Escherichia.coli) for one month, three times weekly. At 15 months and three years we investigated the levels of Immunoglobulins E,A and G, and the incidence of illness and allergy. The results revealed that allergy and high umbilical IgE is strongly linked with family history (p ≤ 0.001). We also detected differences in seasonality, especially with regards to pollen allergies. Eighty percent of children treated with Colinfant Newborn had significantly reduced IgE and morbidity at 13-15 months and 3 years, and furthermore without any clinical signs of allergy. Normalization of Immunoglobulins A and G was seen in 90% of treated subjects (p ≤ 0.001). These levels significantly correlated with an almost negligible morbidity up to 4 years of life. Colinfant Newborn, a lyophilized strain of Esherichia coli (E. coli), and a normal component of intestinal flora, readily colonizes the intestinal tract. It's long term presence significantly stimulates the production of specific and non-specific intestinal antibodies. and optimalizes immune development through tolerance. In our study Colinfant Newborn reduced the incidence of infections later in life by safely and effectively normalizing immunoglobulin levels in the majority of treated patients.

CONCLUSION

Our study strongly suggests as positive effect of physiological Escherichia coli on the microbiome of newborn children as evidenced by a significantly reduced incidence of allergy and morbidity when applied early in life. These benefits appear to be strongly strain specific.

Canine endometrial and vaginal microbiomes reveal distinct and complex ecosystems

The objective of this study was to characterize the normal microbiome of healthy canine vagina and endometrium and to determine the effect of the stage of estrous, on the resident microbiome. Cranial vaginal swabs and uterine biopsy samples were collected from twenty-five bitches in five different stages of estrous at elective ovariohysterectomy (OVH). Over 4 million reads of the V4 region of 16S rDNA gene were obtained and used for further analyses. A total of 317 genera belonging to 24 known phyla were identified. The endometrium was higher in bacterial diversity while the vagina was higher in richness. Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes were the most abundant phyla observed across all samples. Hydrotalea, Ralstonia, and Fusobacterium accounted for nearly 60% of the OTUs identified in the vagina while organisms identified in the endometrium were more evenly distributed. Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, and Corynebacterium were the prominent genera in the endometrium. The microbiome of the endometrium was distinctly different from that of the vagina. There was large animal-to-animal variation. Other than the vaginal microbiome of bitches in estrus (i.e. in heat), there were no distinct clustering of the organisms based on the stage of estrous. These findings establish the presence of a resident microbiome of the endometrium throughout all stages of estrous cycle.

Prenatal stress enhances postnatal plasticity: The role of microbiota

Separate fields of inquiry indicate (a) that prenatal stress is associated with heightened behavioral and physiological reactivity and (b) that these postnatal phenotypes are themselves associated with increased susceptibility to both positive and negative environmental influences. Collectively, this work supports Pluess and Belsky's (Psychopathology, 2011, 23, 29) claim that prenatal stress fosters, promotes or "programs" postnatal developmental plasticity. Herein, we review animal and human evidence consistent with this hypothesis before advancing the novel idea that infant intestinal microbiota may be one candidate mechanism for instantiating developmental plasticity as a result of prenatal stress. We then review research indicating that prenatal stress predicts differences in infant intestinal microbiota; that infant intestinal microbiota is associated with behavioral and physiological reactivity phenotypes; and, thus, that prenatal stress may influence infant intestinal microbiota in a way that results in heightened physiological and behavioral reactivity and, thereby, postnatal developmental plasticity. Finally, we offer ideas for testing this claim and consider implications for intervention and use of probiotics during early infancy.

Implications of Probiotics on the Maternal-Neonatal Interface: Gut Microbiota, Immunomodulation, and Autoimmunity

Probiotics are being investigated for the treatment of autoimmune disease by re-balancing dysbiosis induced changes in the immune system. Pregnancy is a health concern surrounding autoimmune disease, both for the mother and her child. Probiotics for maternity are emerging on the market and have gained significant momentum in the literature. Thus far, evidence supports that probiotics alter the structure of the normal microbiota and the microbiota changes significantly during pregnancy. The interaction between probiotics-induced changes and normal changes during pregnancy is poorly understood. Furthermore, there is emerging evidence that the maternal gut microbiota influences the microbiota of offspring, leading to questions on how maternal probiotics may influence the health of neonates. Underpinning the development and balance of the immune system, the microbiota, especially that of the gut, is significantly important, and dysbiosis is an agent of immune dysregulation and autoimmunity. However, few studies exist on the implications of maternal probiotics for the outcome of pregnancy in autoimmune disease. Is it helpful or harmful for mother with autoimmune disease to take probiotics, and would this be protective or pathogenic for her child? Controversy surrounds whether probiotics administered maternally or during infancy are healthful for allergic disease, and their use for autoimmunity is relatively unexplored. This review aims to discuss the use of maternal probiotics in health and autoimmune disease and to investigate their immunomodulatory properties.

Bacterial Communities in the Womb During Healthy Pregnancy

The idea that healthy uterine cavity is sterile is challenged nowadays. It is still debatable whether the bacteria present in the uterine cavity during pregnancy are residents or invaders. To reveal microbiome composition and its characteristics in the womb of pregnant women, 41 decidual tissue samples and 64 amniotic fluid samples were taken from pregnant Chinese women. DNA extraction was followed by pyrosequencing of the hypervariable V4 region of the 16S rDNA gene to characterize womb microbiome. Both types of samples had low diversity microbiome with Enterobacteriaceae being the dominant phylotypes at family level. To characterize the nature of colonization during pregnancy, the presence of endogenous biomass was confirmed by cultivation. Surprisingly, all of the 50 amniotic fluid samples studied were culture-negative, whereas 379 out of 1,832 placenta samples were culture-positive. Our results suggested that womb contained microbiome with low diversity. Culture-based investigation of amniotic fluid and placenta samples confirmed the presence of cultivable microorganisms in the placenta but not in amniotic fluid. Thus it suggests that bacterial colonization does occur during healthy pregnancy.