Limosilactobacillus reuteri SLZX19-12 Protects the Colon from Infection by Enhancing Stability of the Gut Microbiota and Barrier Integrity and Reducing Inflammation

Elucidating the Mechanisms of Cell-to-Cell Crosstalk in Probiotics Co-culture: A Proteomics Study of Limosilactobacillus reuteri ZJ625 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius ZJ614

Limosilactobacillus reuteri ZJ625 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius ZJ614 are potential probiotic bacteria with improved benefits when administered to the host as a multi-strain preparation. To elucidate the mechanisms of cell-to-cell crosstalk between these two strains, we studied their intracellular and extracellular proteomes in co-culture by liquid-chromatography mass-spectrometry (LC-MS) using Dionex Nano-RSLC and fusion mass spectrometer. The experiment consisted of five biological replicates, and samples were collected during the mid-exponential growth phase. The quantitative proteomic profiles revealed several differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), which are down- or up-regulated between and within groups for both the intracellular and extracellular proteomes. These DEPs include proteins synthesising autoinducer-2, a sensor compound for cell-to-cell bacterial crosstalk during quorum sensing in mixed culture. Other important DEPs identified include enolase, phosphoglycerate kinase, and l-lactate dehydrogenase, which play roles in carbohydrate metabolism. Proteins associated with transcription, ATP production and transport across the membrane, DNA repair, and those with the potential to bind to the host epithelium were also identified. The post-translational modifications associated with the proteins include oxidation, deamidation, and ammonia loss. Importantly, this study revealed a significant expression of S-ribosylhomocysteine lyase (luxS) involved in synthesising autoinducer-2 that plays important roles in quorum sensing, aiding bacterial cell-to-cell crosstalk in co-cultures. The proteome of L. salivarius ZJ614 was most affected when co-cultured with L. reuteri ZJ625. In contrast, omitting some medium components from the defined medium exerted more effects on L. reuteri ZJ625 than L. salivarius ZJ614.

Limosilactobacillus reuteri Alleviates Anxiety-like Behavior and Intestinal Symptoms in Two Stressed Mouse Models

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Limosilactobacillus (Lm.) reuteri is a widely utilized probiotic, recognized for its significant role in alleviating symptoms associated with gastrointestinal and psychiatric disorders. However, the effectiveness of Lm. reuteri is strain-specific, and its genetic diversity leads to significant differences in phenotypes among different strains. This study aims to identify potential probiotic strains by comparing the strain-specific characteristics of Lm. reuteri to better understand their efficacy and mechanisms in alleviating stress-induced anxiety-like behaviors and gastrointestinal symptoms.

METHODS

We cultivated 11 strains of Lm. reuteri from healthy human samples and conducted phenotypic and genomic characterizations. Two strains, WLR01 (=GOLDGUT-LR99) and WLR06, were screened as potential probiotics and were tested for their efficacy in alleviating anxiety-like behavior and intestinal symptoms in mouse models subjected to sleep deprivation (SD) and water avoidance stress (WAS).

RESULTS

The results showed that the selected strains effectively improved mouse behaviors, including cognitive impairment and inflammatory response, as well as improving anxiety and regulating gut microbiota composition. The improvements with WLR01 were associated with the regulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in the SD model mice and were associated with visceral hypersensitivity and intestinal integrity in the WAS model mice.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, this study identified the Lm. reuteri strain WLR01 as having the potential to alleviate anxiety-like behavior and intestinal symptoms through the analysis of Lm. reuteri genotypes and phenotypes, as well as validation in mouse models, thereby laying the foundation for future clinical applications.

Effects of Limosilactobacillus reuteri strains PTA-126787 and PTA-126788 on intestinal barrier integrity and immune homeostasis in an alcohol-induced leaky gut model

Intestinal barrier is a first line of defense that prevents entry of various harmful substances from the lumen into the systemic environment. Impaired barrier function with consequent translocation of harmful substances into systemic circulation ("leaky gut") is a central theme in many gastrointestinal, autoimmune, mental, and metabolic diseases. Probiotics have emerged as a promising strategy to maintain intestinal integrity and address "leaky gut". Using in silico, in vitro and avian in vivo analyses, we previously showed that two novel L. reuteri strains, PTA-126787 (L. reuteri 3630) and PTA-126788 (L. reuteri 3632), isolated from broiler chickens possess favorable safety profiles. Consistent with a recent study, here we show that L. reuteri 3630 and 3632 are phylogenetically similar to human L. reuteri strains. Daily administration of high doses of L. reuteri 3630 and 3632 to Sprague Dawley rats for 28 days was found to be safe with no adverse effects. More importantly, administration of L. reuteri 3630 and 3632 significantly reduced markers associated with alcohol-induced leaky gut, by downregulating inflammatory cytokines and upregulating anti-inflammatory cytokines in an alcohol model of leaky gut in mice. While L. reuteri 3630 cells and supernatant showed no activation, L. reuteri 3632 cells but not supernatant showed activation of AhR, a key transcription factor that regulates gut and immune homeostasis. L. reuteri 3630 is creamish white in morphology typical of Lactobacillus species and L. reuteri 3632 displays a unique orange pigmentation, which was stable even after passaging for 480 generations. We identified a rare polyketide biosynthetic gene cluster in L. reuteri 3632 that likely encodes for the orange-pigmented secondary metabolite. Similar to L. reuteri 3632 cells, the purified orange metabolite activated AhR. All together, these data provide evidence on the phylogenetic relatedness, safety, efficacy, and one of the likely mechanisms of action of L. reuteri 3630 and 3632 for potential probiotic applications to address "leaky gut" and associated pathologies in humans.

Tannic acid protects against colitis by regulating the IL17 - NFκB and microbiota - methylation pathways

Tannic acid, a bioactive polyphenol found in various phytogenic foods and medicinal plants, has potential prevention effects on colitis, though more evidence and mechanistic studies are required to substantiate this. In this study, we investigated the effects of different doses from 0 to 3 mg/mL of tannic acid on mice, ultimately selecting a dose of 3 mg/mL for the anti-colitis trial based on growth and intestinal morphology assessments. Using the DSS-induced colitis model, we found that tannic acid may alleviate colitis by inhibiting the IL-17 - NF-κB p65 signaling pathway and modulating epigenetic pathways, particularly methylation modifications. Additionally, tannic acid altered the gut microbiota, increasing the abundances of Prevotella, Eubacterium_siraeum_group, and Enterorhabdus in the colon. Supplementation with Eubacterium siraeum via gavage also inhibited colitis, accompanied by increased folate and methylation regulators in the colon. These findings suggest that tannic acid may inhibit colitis through the suppression of the IL-17 - NF-κB pathway and the enhancement of microbiota-mediated methylation pathways.

The prevention effect of Limosilactobacillus reuteri on acute kidney injury by regulating gut microbiota

Acute kidney injury (AKI) has considerably high morbidity and mortality but we do not have proper treatment for it. There is an urgent need to develop new prevention or treatment methods. Gut microbiota has a close connection with renal diseases and has become the new therapy target for AKI. In this study, we found the oral administration of the probiotic Limosilactobacillus reuteri had a prevention effect on the AKI induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). It reduced serum concentration of creatinine and urea nitrogen and protected the renal cells from necrosis and apoptosis. Meanwhile, L. reuteri improved the gut barrier function, which is destroyed in AKI, and modulated the gut microbiota and relevant metabolites. Compared with the LPS group, L. reuteri increased the proportion of Proteobacteria and reduced the proportion of Firmicutes, changing the overall structure of the gut microbiota. It also influenced the fecal metabolites and changed the metabolite pathways, such as tyrosine metabolism, pentose and glucuronate interconversions, galactose metabolism, purine metabolism, and insulin resistance. These results showed that L. reuteri is a potential therapy for AKI as it helps in sustaining the gut barrier integrity and modulating gut microbiota and related metabolites.

Current research progress, opportunities, and challenges of Limosillactobacillus reuteri-based probiotic dietary strategies

Limosillactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri), a type of Lactobacillus spp., stands out as the most extensively researched probiotic. Its remarkable intestinal adhesion has led to widespread applications in both the food and medical sectors. Notably, recent research highlights the probiotic efficacy of L. reuteri sourced from breast milk, particularly in influencing social behavior and mitigating atopic dermatitis. In this review, our emphasis is on surveying recent literature regarding the promotion of host's health by L. reuteri. We aim to provide a concise summary of the latest regulatory effects and potential mechanisms attributed to L. reuteri in the realms of metabolism, brain- and immune-related functions. The mechanism through which L. reuteri promotes host health by modulating the intestinal microenvironment primarily involves promoting intestinal epithelial renewal, bolstering intestinal barrier function, regulating gut microbiota and its metabolites, and suppressing inflammation and immune responses. Additionally, this review delves into new technologies, identifies shortcomings, and addresses challenges in current L. reuteri research. Finally, the application prospects of L. reuteri are provided. Therefore, a better understanding of the role and mechanisms of L. reuteri will contribute significantly to the development of new probiotic functional foods and enable precise, targeted interventions for various diseases.

Prevention and treatment of antibiotics-associated adverse effects through the use of probiotics: A review

BACKGROUND

The human gut hosts a diverse microbial community, essential for maintaining overall health. However, antibiotics, commonly prescribed for infections, can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to antibiotic-associated diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and even neurological disorders. Recognizing this, probiotics have emerged as a promising strategy to counteract these adverse effects.

AIM OF REVIEW

This review aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the latest evidence concerning the utilization of probiotics in managing antibiotic-associated side effects.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

Probiotics play a crucial role in preserving gut homeostasis, regulating intestinal function and metabolism, and modulating the host immune system. These mechanisms serve to effectively alleviate antibiotic-associated adverse effects and enhance overall well-being.

Faecalibacterium prausnitzii Supplementation Prevents Intestinal Barrier Injury and Gut Microflora Dysbiosis Induced by Sleep Deprivation

Sleep deprivation (SD) leads to impaired intestinal barrier function and intestinal flora disorder, especially a reduction in the abundance of the next generation of probiotic Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (F. prausnitzii). However, it remains largely unclear whether F. prausnitzii can ameliorate SD-induced intestinal barrier damage. A 72 h SD mouse model was used in this research, with or without the addition of F. prausnitzii. The findings indicated that pre-colonization with F. prausnitzii could protect against tissue damage from SD, enhance goblet cell count and MUC2 levels in the colon, boost tight-junction protein expression, decrease macrophage infiltration, suppress pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, and reduce apoptosis. We found that the presence of F. prausnitzii helped to balance the gut microbiota in SD mice by reducing harmful bacteria like Klebsiella and Staphylococcus, while increasing beneficial bacteria such as Akkermansia. Ion chromatography analysis revealed that F. prausnitzii pretreatment increased the fecal butyrate level in SD mice. Overall, these results suggested that incorporating F. prausnitzii could help reduce gut damage caused by SD, potentially by enhancing the intestinal barrier and balancing gut microflora. This provides a foundation for utilizing probiotics to protect against intestinal illnesses.

Effects of Peanuts and Pistachios on Gut Microbiota and Metabolic Syndrome: A Review

There is growing evidence that the gut microbiota is associated with various aspects of human health, including immune system regulation, vitamin synthesis, short-chain fatty acid production, etc. Peanuts and pistachios are foods rich in protein, unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, polyphenols, and other dietary components that have been shown to benefit the gut microbiota. Therefore, this review aims to describe the effects of consuming peanuts and pistachios on the gut microbiota and the potential role of these microbiota in human health. This review suggests that the consumption of peanuts or pistachios can demonstrate the potential to exert a beneficial effect on the gut microbiota by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that produce, for example, short-chain fatty acids that are beneficial for human health. In the case of peanuts, in particular, the possible modulation of the microbiota is associated with an improvement in the risk factors of metabolic syndrome and the inflammatory process triggered by a high-fat diet.

Ginkgo biloba Extract Drives Gut Flora and Microbial Metabolism Variation in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disease. Numerous investigations have demonstrated that medications that regulate the "brain-gut" axis can ameliorate disease symptoms of AD. Studies have shown that Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) is involved in intestinal metabolism to meet the goal of illness treatment. EGb is currently utilized extensively in the clinical prevention and treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. However, the regulatory effect of EGb on intestinal flora and its metabolites in AD pathology remains largely speculative. In this study, the Morris water maze test showed a significant improvement of spatial memory in the AD mouse model (APP/PS1 mice) after EGb treatment. We next confirmed the positive effects of EGb on the gut flora and metabolites of APP/PS1 mice and further showed that EGb treatment reshaped the disturbed gut microbiome, in particular by reducing the Firmicutes/Bacteroides ratio and increasing the abundance of Bacteroidetes, Uroviricota, Streptophyta, and Spirochaetes. Meanwhile, a non-targeted metabolomics analysis showed that EGb treatment significantly reversed the dysfunction of the microbial metabolic phenotype by altering Limosilactobacillus and Parvibacte, with 300 differential metabolites modulated (131 up-regulated, 169 down-regulated). Our findings highlight the significant regulatory impact of EGb on intestinal microflora and microbial metabolism in AD mice models and provide a potential therapeutic strategy for AD.

Effects of fungal based bioactive compounds on human health: Review paper

Since the first years of history, microbial fermentation products such as bread, wine, yogurt and vinegar have always been noteworthy regarding their nutritional and health effects. Similarly, mushrooms have been a valuable food product in point of both nutrition and medicine due to their rich chemical components. Alternatively, filamentous fungi, which can be easier to produce, play an active role in the synthesis of some bioactive compounds, which are also important for health, as well as being rich in protein content. Therefore, this review presents some important bioactive compounds (bioactive peptides, chitin/chitosan, β-glucan, gamma-aminobutyric acid, L-carnitine, ergosterol and fructooligosaccharides) synthesized by fungal strains and their health benefits. In addition, potential probiotic- and prebiotic fungi were researched to determine their effects on gut microbiota. The current uses of fungal based bioactive compounds for cancer treatment were also discussed. The use of fungal strains in the food industry, especially to develop innovative food production, has been seen as promising microorganisms in obtaining healthy and nutritious food.

The role of potential probiotic strains Lactobacillus reuteri in various intestinal diseases: New roles for an old player

Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri), a type of Lactobacillus spp., is a gut symbiont that can colonize many mammals. Since it was first isolated in 1962, a multitude of research has been conducted to investigate its function and unique role in different diseases as an essential probiotic. Among these, the basic functions, beneficial effects, and underlying mechanisms of L. reuteri have been noticed and understood profoundly in intestinal diseases. The origins of L. reuteri strains are diverse, with humans, rats, and piglets being the most common. With numerous L. reuteri strains playing significant roles in different intestinal diseases, DSM 17938 is the most widely used in humans, especially in children. The mechanisms by which L. reuteri improves intestinal disorders include protecting the gut barrier, suppressing inflammation and the immune response, regulating the gut microbiota and its metabolism, and inhibiting oxidative stress. While a growing body of studies focused on L. reuteri, there are still many unknowns concerning its curative effects, clinical safety, and precise mechanisms. In this review, we initially interpreted the basic functions of L. reuteri and its related metabolites. Then, we comprehensively summarized its functions in different intestinal diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer, infection-associated bowel diseases, and pediatric intestinal disorders. We also highlighted some important molecules in relation to the underlying mechanisms. In conclusion, L. reuteri has the potential to exert a beneficial impact on intestinal diseases, which should be further explored to obtain better clinical application and therapeutic effects.

Alginate oligosaccharide ameliorates azithromycin-induced gut microbiota disorder via Bacteroides acidifaciens-FAHFAs and Bacteroides-TCA cycle axes

Alginate oligosaccharide is a kind of prebiotic with broad application prospects. However, little attention is paid to the recovery effect of alginate oligosaccharide on disordered intestinal microecology caused by azithromycin. Therefore, we evaluated the regulatory effect of alginate oligosaccharide and its compound on azithromycin-disturbed gut microbiota in mice via microbiome-metabolomics analysis. The gut microbiota analysis revealed that alginate oligosaccharide and its compound significantly increased the richness and diversity of the gut microbiota which were reduced by azithromycin, with an obvious enrichment of beneficial bacteria such as the Akkermansia genus and Bacteroides acidifaciens, and a remarkable decrease of pathogenic bacteria such as the Staphylococcus genus, which indicated its impact on the gut microbiota dysbiosis. Additionally, the effect of the alginate oligosaccharide compound on regulating the gut microbiota disorder is more significant than that of alginate oligosaccharide. The favorable effects of alginate oligosaccharide were confirmed by beneficial alterations in metabolic effector molecules, which indicated that alginate oligosaccharide and its compound improved metabolic homeostasis via the Bacteroides acidifaciens-fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs) axis and increasing the levels of the intermediate products of the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle), such as citric acid, fumaric acid and α-ketoglutaric acid. Spearman correlation analysis showed that the contents of these three metabolites were also positively related to Bacteroides acidifaciens and Bacteroides sartorii populations, suggesting the potential regulatory role of the Bacteroides genus in energy balance through the TCA cycle. This study may provide an innovative dietary strategy for the regulation of intestinal microecological disorders caused by antibiotics, and reveal the prospect of alginate oligosaccharide as an intestinal microecological regulator.

Chloroform extracts of Atractylodes chinensis inhibit the adhesion and invasion of Salmonella typhimurium

There are 27 million cases of Salmonella Typhimurium (STM) reported worldwide annually, which have resulted in 217,000 deaths to date. Thus, there is an urgent requirement to develop novel antibacterial agents to target the multidrug-resistant strains of STM. We evaluated the inhibitory effect of the chloroform extracts of Atractylodes chinensis (Ac-CE) on the virulence of STM in vitro and develop it as a potential antibacterial agent. First, we determined the in vitro effects of Ac-CE on STM biofilm formation, and swimming, swarming, and adhesion to mucin. Further, we evaluated the effect of Ac-CE on the adhesion and invasion of STM at the gene level. Lastly, we evaluated the inhibitory effect of Ac-CE on STM infectivity at the cellular level. Ac-CE could attenuate both the adhesion and invasion abilities of STM in vitro. At the gene level, it could inhibit the expression of flagella, pilus, biofilm, SPI-1, and SPI-2 genes, which are related to the adhesion and invasion ability of STM in cells. Ac-CE significantly downregulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines and the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway in an STM infection cell model. It also significantly recovered the expression of intestinal barrier-related genes and proteins in intestinal cells that are damaged during STM infection. Ac-CE is effective as an antivirulence agent in alleviating STM infection. Although the main components of Ac-CE were analyzed.We have not demonstrated the antivirulence effect of the active ingredients in Ac-CE. And the antivirulence effect of Ac-CE and its active ingredients warrant further in vivo studies.