Effects of two Lactobacillus strains on lipid metabolism and intestinal microflora in rats fed a high-cholesterol diet

Fried Soybean Oil Causes Systemic Low-Grade Inflammation by Disrupting the Balance of Gut Microbiota in Mice

Previous reports have mainly investigated the long-term effects (>30 d), such as gut microbiota dysbiosis and systemic low-grade inflammation, in mice fed fried oil. However, short-term intake of deep-fried oil is more likely to occur in daily life, and such studies are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the short-term effects of fried oil intake on systemic low-grade inflammation. Male Kunming mice were fed non-fried soybean oil or low (25%), medium (50%), or high (100%)-fried oil at 4.4 g/kg for 6 d. Serum and fecal samples were collected on day 7. In all groups fed fried oil, the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) were significantly elevated 2-4-fold. Among the gut microbiota, the abundance of Alloprevotella significantly decreased by up to 76%, while Lactobacilli significantly increased by up to 385%. The fecal valeric acid content was significantly increased and positively correlated with TNF-α levels. Both valeric acid and TNF-α levels were positively correlated with the abundance of Lactobacilli and negatively correlated with that of Alloprevotella. In summary, a short-term ingestion of even low doses of fried oil alters the gut microbiota Alloprevotella and Lactobacilli and increases fecal valeric acid content, which correlates with increased serum TNF-α levels.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum N4 ameliorates lipid metabolism and gut microbiota structure in high fat diet-fed rats

Lowing blood lipid levels with probiotics has good application prospects. This study aimed to isolate probiotics with hypolipidemic efficacy from homemade na dish and investigate their mechanism of action. In vitro experiments were conducted to determine the cholesterol-lowering ability of five isolates, with results showing that Lactiplantibacillus plantarum N4 exhibited a high cholesterol-lowering rate of 50.27% and significant resistance to acid (87%), bile salt (51.97%), and pepsin (88.28%) in simulated gastrointestinal fluids, indicating promising application prospects for the use of probiotics in lowering blood lipids. The findings from the in vivo experiment demonstrated that the administration of N4 effectively attenuated lipid droplet accumulation and inflammatory cell infiltration in the body weight and liver of hyperlipidemic rats, leading to restoration of liver tissue morphology and structure, as well as improvement in lipid and liver biochemical parameters. 16S analysis indicated that the oral administration of N4 led to significant alterations in the relative abundance of various genera, including Sutterella, Bacteroides, Clostridium, and Ruminococcus, in the gut microbiota of hyperlipidemia rats. Additionally, fecal metabolomic analysis identified a total of 78 metabolites following N4 intervention, with carboxylic acids and their derivatives being the predominant compounds detected. The transcriptomic analysis revealed 156 genes with differential expression following N4 intervention, leading to the identification of 171 metabolic pathways through Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis. Notably, the glutathione metabolism pathway, PPAR signaling pathway, and bile secretion pathway emerged as the primary enrichment pathways. The findings from a comprehensive multi-omics analysis indicate that N4 influences lipid metabolism and diminishes lipid levels in hyperlipidemic rats through modulation of fumaric acid and γ-aminobutyric acid concentrations, as well as glutathione and other metabolic pathways in the intestinal tract, derived from both the gut microbiota and the host liver. This research offers valuable insights into the therapeutic potential of probiotics for managing lipid metabolism disorders and their utilization in the development of functional foods.

Maternal fructose intake aggravates the harmful effects of a Western diet in rat male descendants impacting their cholesterol metabolism

Scope: fructose consumption from added sugars correlates with the epidemic rise in MetS and CVD. Maternal fructose intake has been described to program metabolic diseases in progeny. However, consumption of fructose-containing beverages is allowed during gestation. Cholesterol is also a well-known risk factor for CVD. Therefore, it is essential to study Western diets which combine fructose and cholesterol and how maternal fructose can influence the response of progeny to these diets. Methods and results: a high-cholesterol (2%) diet combined with liquid fructose (10%), as a model of an unhealthy Western diet, was administered to descendants from control and fructose-fed mothers. Gene (mRNA and protein) expression and plasma, fecal and tissue parameters of cholesterol metabolism were measured. Interestingly, progeny from fructose-fed dams consumed less liquid fructose and cholesterol-rich chow than males from control mothers. Moreover, descendants of fructose-fed mothers fed a Western diet showed an increased cholesterol elimination through bile and feces than males from control mothers. Despite these mitigating circumstances to develop a proatherogenic profile, the same degree of hypercholesterolemia and severity of steatosis were observed in all descendants fed a Western diet, independently of maternal intake. An increased intestinal absorption of cholesterol, synthesis, esterification, and assembly into lipoprotein found in males from fructose-fed dams consuming a Western diet could be the cause. Moreover, an augmented GLP2 signalling seen in these animals would explain this enhanced lipid absorption. Conclusions: maternal fructose intake, through a fetal programming, makes a Western diet considerably more harmful in their descendants than in the offspring from control mothers.

Residents or Tourists: Is the Lactating Mammary Gland Colonized by Residential Microbiota?

The existence of the human milk microbiome has been widely recognized for almost two decades, with many studies examining its composition and relationship to maternal and infant health. However, the richness and viability of the human milk microbiota is surprisingly low. Given that the lactating mammary gland houses a warm and nutrient-rich environment and is in contact with the external environment, it may be expected that the lactating mammary gland would contain a high biomass microbiome. This discrepancy raises the question of whether the bacteria in milk come from true microbial colonization in the mammary gland ("residents") or are merely the result of constant influx from other bacterial sources ("tourists"). By drawing together data from animal, in vitro, and human studies, this review will examine the question of whether the lactating mammary gland is colonized by a residential microbiome.

Intake of the different types of dairy products, genetic predisposition, and the risks of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cirrhosis: a prospective cohort study

Background: The association of dairy product consumption with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cirrhosis remains controversial. This study aimed to prospectively investigate the associations between the consumption of the different types of dairy products, genetic predisposition, and the risks of NAFLD and cirrhosis. Methods: This cohort study included 190 145 participants from the UK Biobank Study. The consumption of the different types of dairy products was assessed based on the Oxford WebQ at baseline and defined as the sum of milk, yogurt, and cheese. NAFLD and cirrhosis were evaluated using hospital inpatient records and death data in the UK Biobank. The weighted genetic risk score (GRS) for NAFLD and cirrhosis was constructed using 5 and 6 single-nucleotide variants (SNVs), respectively. Cox proportional hazards regression models were utilized to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between genetic factors and different types of dairy products with the incidence of NAFLD and cirrhosis. Results: During a median follow-up of 11.6 years, 1512 NAFLD and 556 cirrhosis cases were ascertained. After adjusting for several potential confounders, the HRs (95% CIs) (Q4 vs. Q1) of NAFLD were 0.86 (0.74, 0.995) for total dairy products, 0.96 (0.84, 1.09) for high-fat dairy products, 0.78 (0.67, 0.92) for low-fat dairy products, 0.86 (0.74, 0.99) for unfermented dairy products, and 0.79 (0.68, 0.91) for fermented dairy products. The multivariable-adjusted HRs (95% CIs) (Q4 vs. Q1) of cirrhosis were 0.75 (0.59, 0.96) for total dairy products, 0.97 (0.78, 1.19) for high-fat dairy products, 0.67 (0.51, 0.89) for low-fat dairy products, 0.75 (0.59, 0.96) for unfermented dairy products, and 0.71 (0.56, 0.90) for fermented dairy products. The associations of high-fat dairy products and fermented dairy products with NAFLD and cirrhosis were found to be nonlinear (P for nonlinear <0.05). No interaction was observed between dairy product consumption and NAFLD or cirrhosis genetic susceptibility. Conclusions: Higher consumption of dairy products, except for high-fat dairy, was correlated with lower risks of NAFLD and cirrhosis, regardless of their differences in genetic susceptibility.

Heat-killed Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Shinshu N-07 exerts antiobesity effects in western diet-induced obese mice

AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiobesity effects of heat-killed Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Shinshu N-07 (N-07) isolated from fermented Brassica rapa L.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Male mice were divided into three groups (n = 10/group); normal diet, western diet (WD), or WD + N-07 (N-07) group and administered each diet for 56 days. The N-07 group showed significant suppression of body weight gain and epididymal fat, perirenal fat, and liver weights compared with the WD group. Higher levels of fecal total cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), and free fatty acid (FFA) were observed in the N-07 group than in the WD group. The mRNA expression of the cholesterol transporter ATP-binding cassette transporter G5 (ABCG5) was significantly increased in the small intestine of N-07-fed mice compared with WD-fed mice. Moreover, N-07 supplementation significantly increased the mRNA expression of ABCG5 and ABCG8 in Caco-2 cells. Furthermore, the TG- and FFA-removal ability of N-07 was confirmed to evaluate its soybean oil- and oleic acid-binding capacities in in vitro experiments.

CONCLUSIONS

The antiobesity effects of N-07 might be due to its ability to promote lipid excretion by regulating cholesterol transporter expression and lipid-binding ability.

Applications of Strain-Specific Probiotics in the Management of Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systemic Review

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of global mortality and novel approaches for prevention and management are needed. The human gastrointestinal tract hosts a diverse microbiota that is crucial in maintaining metabolic homeostasis. The formulation of effective probiotics, alone or in combination, has been under discussion due to their impact on cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Probiotics have been shown to impact cardiovascular health positively. An imbalance in the presence of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes has been linked to the progression of CVDs due to their impact on bile acid and cholesterol metabolism. The probiotics primarily help in the reduction of plasma low-density lipoprotein levels and attenuation of the proinflammatory markers. These beneficial microorganisms contribute to lowering cholesterol levels and produce essential short-chain fatty acids. The impact of lipid-regulating probiotic strains on human health is quite significant. However, only a few have been tested for potential beneficial efficacy, and ambiguity exists regarding strain dosages, interactions with confounding factors, and potential adverse effects. Hence, more comprehensive studies and randomized trials are needed to understand the mechanisms of probiotics on CVDs and to ensure human health. This review assesses the evidence and highlights the roles of strain-specific probiotics in the management of CVDs.

Cholesterol lowering in diet-induced hypercholesterolemic mice using Lactobacillus bile salt hydrolases with different substrate specificities

The cholesterol-lowering effect of lactic acid bacteria with high activity of bile salt hydrolase (BSH) is unclear. We believe that distinguishing BSH substrate specificity is necessary to study the effect of various BSH enzymes. We engineered a BSH mutant enzyme recombinant strain named F67A, which exclusively hydrolyzes taurocholic acid (TCA) using site-directed mutagenesis, and a previously lab-constructed BSH recombinant strain, YB81 that exclusively hydrolyzes glycocholic acid (GCA). We also constructed the recombinant strain named NB5462, which carries the empty pSIP411 plasmid and was used as a blank control strain. The intestinal flora in pseudo-germ-free (PGF) mice in which intestinal flora were eliminated via antibiotics, and F67A successfully reduced serum cholesterol levels in high-cholesterol diet-fed mice, whereas YB81 did not yield the same results. However, YB81 regained its cholesterol-lowering capacity in specific pathogen-free (SPF) mice with intact intestinal flora. The cholesterol-lowering mechanism of F67A involved modifying the bile acid pool through BSH enzyme activity. This adjustment regulated the expression of intestinal farnesoid X receptor and subsequently elevated hepatic cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1), effectively reducing cholesterol levels. Conversely, GCA, the substrate of YB81, was found in minimal quantities in mice, preventing it from inducing changes in bile acid pools. In the presence of intestinal flora, the YB81 BSH enzyme induced notable alterations in bile acids by regulating changes in the intestinal flora and BSH within the flora, ultimately resulting in cholesterol reduction. This is the first study investigating the substrate specificity of BSH, demonstrating that different substrate-specific BSH enzymes exhibit cholesterol-lowering properties. Additionally, we elaborate on the mechanism of BSH-mediated enterohepatic axis regulation.

Evaluation of probiotic bifidobacteria strains from Iranian traditional dairy products for their anti-hyperlipidemic potential

This study investigated the therapeutic potential of probiotic bifidobacteria, isolated from Iranian fermented dairy products, in a hyperlipidemic animal model. Bifidobacterium strains were extracted from traditional dairy samples and screened using physiological and phenotypic examinations, 16S rRNA analysis, and probiotic properties such as tolerance to gastrointestinal juice, antimicrobial activity, and antibiotic susceptibility. The ability of the screened bifidobacteria to reduce serum and liver lipids in vivo was tested using male Wistar rats. Six strains of bifidobacteria were isolated from traditional Iranian fermented dairy. These strains showed promising in vitro activity in lowering triglyceride and cholesterol, tolerance to simulated gastrointestinal juice, the ability to adhere to Caco-2 cells, acceptable antibiotic susceptibility, and a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. The diet supplemented with isolated bifidobacteria significantly reduced serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), liver tissue lipid levels, and hepatic enzymes in animals when compared to a high-fat diet without strains (p < 0.01). Additionally, the potential probiotic-supplemented diet significantly increased bile acid excretion in the feces and upregulated hepatic CYP7A1 expression levels (p < 0.05), while NPC1L1, ACAT2, and MTP gene expressions in small intestinal cells were downregulated (p < 0.05). Bifidobacteria isolated from Iranian traditional dairy showed potential for use in the production of fermented foods that have hypolipemic activity in the host.

Exploring the Effects of Probiotic Treatment on Urinary and Serum Metabolic Profiles in Healthy Individuals

Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when administered in adequate amounts. They are used to promote gut health and alleviate various disorders. Recently, there has been an increasing interest in the potential effects of probiotics on human physiology. In the presented study, the effects of probiotic treatment on the metabolic profiles of human urine and serum using a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabonomic approach were investigated. Twenty-one healthy volunteers were enrolled in the study, and they received two different dosages of probiotics for 8 weeks. During the study, urine and serum samples were collected from volunteers before and during probiotic supplementation. The results showed that probiotics had a significant impact on the urinary and serum metabolic profiles without altering their phenotypes. This study demonstrated the effects of probiotics in terms of variations of metabolite levels resulting also from the different probiotic posology. Overall, the results suggest that probiotic administration may affect both urine and serum metabolomes, although more research is needed to understand the mechanisms and clinical implications of these effects. NMR-based metabonomic analysis of biofluids is a powerful tool for monitoring host-gut microflora dynamic interaction as well as for assessing the individual response to probiotic treatment.

Weizmannia coagulans JA845 improves atherosclerosis induced by vitamin D3 and high-fat diet in rats through modulating lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and endothelial vascular injury

AIMS

Probiotics have been proved to be strongly linked to the occurrence and progression of atherosclerosis. This study aimed to investigate the improved effects and mechanisms underlying a potential probiotic, Weizmannia coagulans JA845, on atherosclerosis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats supported on a high-fat diet with vitamin D3 supplementation were subjected to W. coagulans JA845 treatment. W. coagulans JA845 obviously alleviated histological abnormalities of the abdominal aorta. After 6 weeks of W. coagulans JA845 administration, levels of TG, TC, LDL, ox-LDL, ROS, and MDA in the JA845 group decreased significantly, and those of HDL, GSH-Px, and SOD were markedly elevated. Treatment with W. coagulans JA845 also inhibited the secretion of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 and regulated the plasma NO and eNOS content. In brief, administration of W. coagulans JA845 promoted the expression of the SIRT3/SOD2/FOXO3A pathway, inhibited the lipid metabolism pathway, SREBP-1c/FAS/DGAT2, and suppressed the JNK2/P38 MAPK/VEGF pathway implicated in endothelial injury.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicated W. coagulans JA845 improved atherosclerosis by regulating lipid metabolism, antioxidative stress, and protecting against endothelial injury.

Scientific connotation of the compatibility of traditional Chinese medicine from the perspective of the intestinal flora

Revealing the connotation of the compatibility of Chinese medicines (CM) is a requirement for the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, no consensus exists on the specific mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine compatibility (TCMC). Many studies have shown that the occurrence and development of diseases and the efficacy of CM are closely related to intestinal flora (IF), which may provide a new perspective to understand the theory of TCM. This study aimed to summarize the relationship between the changes in IF before and after the compatibility of different drugs and the synergistic, toxicity reduction, and incompatibility effects of drug pairs from the perspective of the effects of CM on the IF and the regulation of microbial metabolites. These studies showed that the effect of drug pairs on the composition of the IF is not a simple superposition of two single drugs, and that the drug pairs also play a specific role in regulating the production of intestinal bacterial metabolites; therefore, it has a different pharmacodynamic effect, which may provide a perspective to clarify the compatibility mechanism. However, research on the interpretation of the scientific connotations of TCMC from the perspective of the IF is still in its infancy and has limitations. Therefore, this study aimed to summarize previous research experience and proposed to conduct a deep and systematic study from the perspective of drug pair dismantling, IF, intestinal bacteria metabolite, organism, and disease to provide a reference for scientific research on the compatibility mechanism of CM.

Effect of fermented milk Pediococcus acidilactici BK01 on cholesterol and microbiota in Wistar mice intestine

Objective

This study examines the effect of fermented milk containing the probiotic Pediococcus acidilactici BK01 on cholesterol and intestinal microbiota.

Materials and Methods

24 male rats weighing an average of 200 gm each spent 1 week in a cage adapting to their new environment. They were fed standard feed daily and were allowed to drink ad libitum. For 3 weeks, rats were divided into four groups (doses of fermented milk): M+ (control), M1 (0.35 ml), M2 (0.70 ml), and M3 (1.05 ml). The analysis includes bodyweight determination, serum biochemical analysis, and intestine microbiota analysis.

Results

The results indicated that while P. acidilactici BK01 fermented milk did not affect body weight or high-density lipoprotein, it did have a beneficial effect on total serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Additionally, treatment of fermented milk with P. acidilactici BK01 has been shown to increase the total lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in the intestine, as indicated by changes in the intestinal villi.

Conclusion

Administering fermented milk (P. acidilactici BK01, 1.05 ml) can reduce total serum cholesterol and increase the number of LAB in intestinal villi in experimental animals, so it has the potential to be a probiotic.

The regulatory effects of second-generation antipsychotics on lipid metabolism: Potential mechanisms mediated by the gut microbiota and therapeutic implications

Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are the mainstay of treatment for schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric diseases but cause a high risk of disruption to lipid metabolism, which is an intractable therapeutic challenge worldwide. Although the exact mechanisms underlying this lipid disturbance are complex, an increasing body of evidence has suggested the involvement of the gut microbiota in SGA-induced lipid dysregulation since SGA treatment may alter the abundance and composition of the intestinal microflora. The subsequent effects involve the generation of different categories of signaling molecules by gut microbes such as endogenous cannabinoids, cholesterol, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bile acids (BAs), and gut hormones that regulate lipid metabolism. On the one hand, these signaling molecules can directly activate the vagus nerve or be transported into the brain to influence appetite via the gut-brain axis. On the other hand, these molecules can also regulate related lipid metabolism via peripheral signaling pathways. Interestingly, therapeutic strategies directly targeting the gut microbiota and related metabolites seem to have promising efficacy in the treatment of SGA-induced lipid disturbances. Thus, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of how SGAs can induce disturbances in lipid metabolism by altering the gut microbiota.

The effect of probiotic and synbiotic supplementation on appetite-regulating hormones and desire to eat: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials

Recent studies have demonstrated the effect of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics on adiponectin and leptin levels; however, those findings remain contested. The present study aimed to explore the impact of probiotics/synbiotics on appetite-regulating hormones and the desire to eat.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted by searching the Medline (PubMed) and Scopus databases from inception to December 2021, using relevant keywords and MeSH terms, and appropriate randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were extracted. The standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were calculated as part of the meta-analysis using a random-effect model to determine the mean effect sizes. Analysis of Galbraith plots and the Cochrane Chi-squared test were conducted to examine heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Meta-analysis of data from a total of 26 RCTs (n = 1536) showed a significant decrease in serum/plasma leptin concentration following probiotic/synbiotic supplementation (SMD: -0.38, 95%CI= -0.638, -0.124); P-value= 0.004; I²= 69.4%; P heterogeneity < 0.001). The leptin level decrease from probiotic/synbiotic supplementation was higher in patients with NAFLD than those with overweight/obesity or type 2 diabetes mellitus/ metabolic syndrome/ prediabetes. Probiotic/synbiotic supplementation was associated with a trending increase in adiponectin levels, stronger in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and prediabetes (SMD: 0.25, 95%CI= 0.04, 0.46) µg/mL; P-value= 0.021; I² = 16.8%; P heterogeneity= 0.30). Additionally, supplementation with probiotic/synbiotic was linked to a slight increase in desire to eat (SMD: 0.34, 95%CI= 0.03, 0.66) P-value = 0.030; I² = 39.4%; P heterogeneity= 0.16).

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis indicates a favorable impact of probiotic/synbiotic supplementation on regulating leptin and adiponectin secretion.

Lactobacillus-fermented yogurt exerts hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolemic, and anti-inflammatory activities in STZ-induced diabetic Wistar rats

Hyperglycemia is a symptom of type 2 diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disease characterized by elevated blood glucose concentrations. Antidiabetic drugs are common treatments for this metabolic disorder; however, they may have unpleasant side effects. This study hypothesized that probiotic fermented products could preserve nutritional value, maintain metabolic homeostasis, and attenuate the inflammatory response associated with diabetes while reducing side effects. Lactobacillus plantarum KU985438 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus KU985439 showed the lowest alfa-amylase enzyme (α-amylase) activity among 8 lactobacilli tested. These 2 strains were used to develop functional fermented milk products, and their antidiabetic efficacy was tested in induced diabetic Wistar rats. The treatment of diabetic rats with L. plantarum KU985438 or L. rhamnosus KU985439 fermented yogurt resulted in a considerable reduction in blood glucose concentrations (136.79% and 145.17%, respectively) and α-amylase concentrations (56.84% and 56.84%, respectively) compared with conventional treatments. Diabetes relief began after 4 days of yogurt consumption compared with drug-based treatment. Significant improvements in both liver and kidney enzyme concentrations were also observed, in addition to a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations and improved lipid profiles. Inhibition in nuclear factor κB and an increase in Bcl-2 concentrations were also detected. Histopathological examination of both hepatic and pancreatic cells revealed the positive effects of the studied treatment compared with standard treatment. Therefore, the selected Lactobacilli, which has hypoglycemic potential, could be used to produce functional nutraceutical antidiabetic supplements.

A Combination of Xyloglucan, Pea Protein and Chia Seed Ameliorates Intestinal Barrier Integrity and Mucosa Functionality in a Rat Model of Constipation-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine, which encompasses several symptoms including, but not limited to, abdominal pain, bloating and dysmotility. In particular, IBS associated with constipation (IBS-C) is characterized by hard and dry stools and inadequate evacuation and difficulty in defecation. Although several drugs ameliorate intestinal modifications and constipation-associated features, management of IBS is still a challenge. Natural compounds including Xyloglucan and pea protein (XP) and Chia seed powder (CS) are widely known to possess beneficial effects in counteracting several gastrointestinal disorders. Here, we aimed to assess the combined effects of XP and CS to treat constipation-related alterations in an IBS-C rat model. IBS-C was induced by gastric instillation of 2 mL of cold water (0-4 °C) for 14 days and Xiloglucan, Pea protein and Chia seeds (XP + CS) treatment was orally administered for 7 days. On day 22, colon tissues were collected for histological analysis. Our results showed that XP + CS administration attenuated constipation-related parameters by increasing body weight and food and water intake. Upon XP + CS treatment, from day 14 to 22, stool moisture content was restored to physiological level. Colonic tissues from IBS-C rats depicted a disruption of the organ architecture accompanied by edema. Loss of colonic structure was reflected by the marked reduction of tight junction protein expression, Occludin and zona occludens-1 (ZO-1). Administration of XP + CS treatment in IBS-C rats significantly ameliorated the colonic histological parameters and exerted a positive effect on barrier integrity by restoring the expression of Occludin and zona occludens-1 (ZO-1). Our findings demonstrated that the efficacy of XP and CS in managing constipation in rats is due to the ability of these compounds to form a protective barrier fortifying intestinal integrity and gut functionality.

Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium as anti-atherosclerotic agents

Atherosclerosis is the thickening or hardening of the arteries which is caused by a buildup of atheromatous plaque in the inner lining of an artery. Hypercholesterolemia, inflammation, oxidative stress, and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) are important risk factors for atherosclerosis. Therefore, this study aimed to review the anti-atherosclerotic effects of Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium via improving lipid profile and reducing the effects of oxidative stress, inflammation, and TMAO. To prepare the present review, several databases such as Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar were searched, and relevant articles from 1990 until 2022 were selected and reviewed. The present review showed that Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium reduce the risk of atherosclerosis in both in vitro and in vivo studies by breaking down or altering cholesterol metabolism with the help of their by-products and by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress and TMAO. Consumption of Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium can be useful in prevention of atherosclerosis.

Levilactobacillus brevis from carnivores can ameliorate hypercholesterolemia: in vitro and in vivo mechanistic evidence

AIMS

To explore the probiotic and hypocholesterolemic potential of two Levilactobacillus brevis strains of carnivore origin along with selected underlying mechanisms.

METHODS AND RESULTS

L. brevis MT950194 and L. brevis MW365351 were analyzed in vitro for oro-gastro-intestinal stress tolerance, cholesterol reduction, cholesterol adsorption (through scanning electron microscopy) and bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity. Strains could survive (> 80%) in oro-gastro-intestinal conditions, reduce high amount of cholesterol (35% and 54%) from media containing bile salts (0.3%) as compared with Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC4356 and presented least pathogenicity towards mammalian cells. Exopolysaccharide production, cell surface cholesterol adherence and BSH activity were witnessed as possible cholesterol lowering mechanisms. In in vivo experiment, the treatments of hypercholesterolemic rats with L. brevis MT950194, L. brevis MW365351 and their mixture led to significant (p < 0.05) reduction in serum and hepatic cholesterol, low density lipids, cholesterol ratio, liver steatosis, and size of adipocytes. It further ameliorated diet induced changes in hepatic enzymes.

CONCLUSIONS

L. brevis MT950194 and L. brevis MW365351 from carnivores have probiotic pharmacological potential and can reduce serum cholesterol through surface adherence and BSH production.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY

These strains may be utilized in treating hypercholesterolemia and production of low fat functional foods.

The combination of berberine and evodiamine ameliorates high-fat diet-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease associated with modulation of gut microbiota in rats

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered to be a manifestation of hepatic metabolic syndrome. Some studies on the pathogenesis of NAFLD by targeting gut microbiota have attracted wide attention. Previous studies have demonstrated the positive effects of berberine and evodiamine on metabolic diseases and gut microbiota dysbiosis. However, it is not known whether the combination of berberine and evodiamine (BE) can prevent the development of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD. Therefore, we aimed to explore the protective effects of BE on the development of HFD-induced NAFLD from the perspective of the gut microbiota. Gut microbiota profiles were established by high throughput sequencing of the bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA gene. The effects of BE on liver and intestinal tissue, intestinal barrier integrity, and hepatic inflammation were also investigated. The results showed that the abundance and diversity of gut microbiota were enriched by BE treatment, with an increase in beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, Ruminococcus, and Prevotella, and a decrease in pathogenic bacteria such as Fusobacterium and Lachnospira. In addition, BE effectively improved liver fat accumulation and tissue damage, inhibited the apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells, increased the contents of intestinal tight junction proteins, and decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory factors. Consequently, BE treatment could be an effective and alternative strategy for alleviating NAFLD by modulating gut microbiota and safeguarding the intestinal barrier.

Metagenomic and Transcriptomic Analyses Reveal the Differences and Associations Between the Gut Microbiome and Muscular Genes in Angus and Chinese Simmental Cattle

Gut microbiome and heredity are two important factors affecting the intramuscular fat (IMF) of cattle, excluding age, sex, and nutrition. This study aimed at deciphering these two differences by analyzing the gut microbiome and intramuscular differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the Angus and Chinese Simmental cattle. Feces and longissimus dorsi were collected from the two groups of animals (n = 20/group) for multiomics analysis. Angus holds a significantly higher diversity than Chinese Simmental, and the relative abundance of Roseburia, Prevotella, Coprococcus, etc., was obviously higher in Angus. Chinese Simmental had higher levels of isobutyrate, isovalerate, and valerate, although similar levels of acetate, propionate, and butyrate were observed for the two groups. The DEGs upregulated in Chinese Simmental were mainly involved in immune and inflammatory responses, while those in Angus were associated with the regulation of muscle system and myofibril. We finally identified 17 species, including Eubacterium rectale, etc., which were positively correlated to muscle and fat metabolism genes (MSTN, MYLPF, TNNT3, and FABP3/4) and illustrate the associations between them. Our study unveils the gut microbial differences and significant DEGs as well as their associations between the two breeds, providing valuable guidance for future mechanism research and development of intervention strategies to improve meat quality.

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus FM9 and Limosilactobacillus fermentum Y57 Are as Effective as Statins at Improving Blood Lipid Profile in High Cholesterol, High-Fat Diet Model in Male Wistar Rats

Elevated serum cholesterol is a major risk factor for coronary heart diseases. Some Lactobacillus strains with cholesterol-lowering potential have been isolated from artisanal food products. The purpose of this study was to isolate probiotic Lactobacillus strains from traditional yoghurt (dahi) and yogurt milk (lassi) and investigate the impact of these strains on the blood lipid profile and anti-obesity effect in a high cholesterol high fat diet model in Wistar rats. Eight candidate probiotic strains were chosen based on in vitro probiotic features and cholesterol reduction ability. By 16S rDNA sequencing, these strains were identified as Limosilactibacillus fermentum FM6, L. fermentum FM16, L. fermentum FM12, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus FM9, L. fermentum Y55, L. fermentum Y57, L. rhamnosus Y59, and L. fermentum Y63. The safety of these strains was investigated by feeding 2 × 10⁸ CFU/mL in saline water for 28 days in a Wistar rat model. No bacterial translocation or any other adverse effects were observed in animals after administration of strains in water, which indicates the safety of strains. The cholesterol-lowering profile of these probiotics was evaluated in male Wistar rats using a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet (HFCD) model. For 30 days, animals were fed probiotic strains in water with 2 × 10⁸ CFU/mL/rat/day, in addition to a high fat, high cholesterol diet. The cholesterol-lowering effects of various probiotic strains were compared to those of statin. All strains showed improvement in total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and weight gain. Serum cholesterol levels were reduced by 9% and 8% for L. rhamnosus FM9 and L. fermentum Y57, respectively, compared to 5% for the statin-treated group. HDL levels significantly improved by 46 and 44% for L. rhamnosus FM9 and L. fermentum Y57, respectively, compared to 46% for the statin-treated group. Compared to the statin-treated group, FM9 and Y57 significantly reduced LDL levels by almost twofold. These findings show that these strains can improve blood lipid profiles as effectively as statins in male Wistar rats. Furthermore, probiotic-fed groups helped weight control in animals on HFCD, indicating the possible anti-obesity potential of these strains. These strains can be used to develop food products and supplements to treat ischemic heart diseases and weight management. Clinical trials, however, are required to validate these findings.

Characterization of Changes and Driver Microbes in Gut Microbiota During Healthy Aging Using A Captive Monkey Model

Recent population studies have significantly advanced our understanding of how age shapes the gut microbiota. However, the actual role of age could be inevitably confounded due to the complex and variable environmental factors in human populations. A well-controlled environment is thus necessary to reduce undesirable confounding effects, and recapitulate age-dependent changes in the gut microbiota of healthy primates. Herein we performed 16S rRNA gene sequencing, characterized the age-associated gut microbial profiles from infant to elderly crab-eating macaques reared in captivity, and systemically revealed the lifelong dynamic changes of the primate gut microbiota. While the most significant age-associated taxa were mainly found as commensals such as Faecalibacterium, the abundance of a group of suspicious pathogens such as Helicobacter was exclusively increased in infants, underlining their potential role in host development. Importantly, topology analysis indicated that the network connectivity of gut microbiota was even more age-dependent than taxonomic diversity, and its tremendous decline with age could probably be linked to healthy aging. Moreover, we identified key driver microbes responsible for such age-dependent network changes, which were further linked to altered metabolic functions of lipids, carbohydrates, and amino acids, as well as phenotypes in the microbial community. The current study thus demonstrates the lifelong age-dependent changes and their driver microbes in the primate gut microbiota, and provides new insights into their roles in the development and healthy aging of their hosts.

Anti-Microbial Activity of Phytocannabinoids and Endocannabinoids in the Light of Their Physiological and Pathophysiological Roles

Antibiotic resistance has become an increasing challenge in the treatment of various infectious diseases, especially those associated with biofilm formation on biotic and abiotic materials. There is an urgent need for new treatment protocols that can also target biofilm-embedded bacteria. Many secondary metabolites of plants possess anti-bacterial activities, and especially the phytocannabinoids of the Cannabis sativa L. varieties have reached a renaissance and attracted much attention for their anti-microbial and anti-biofilm activities at concentrations below the cytotoxic threshold on normal mammalian cells. Accordingly, many synthetic cannabinoids have been designed with the intention to increase the specificity and selectivity of the compounds. The structurally unrelated endocannabinoids have also been found to have anti-microbial and anti-biofilm activities. Recent data suggest for a mutual communication between the endocannabinoid system and the gut microbiota. The present review focuses on the anti-microbial activities of phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids integrated with some selected issues of their many physiological and pharmacological activities.

Probiotics in prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases

Increasing knowledge of the gut microbiota and its interference in human homeostasis in recent years has contributed to a better understanding of number of different interactions occurring in the gastrointestinal tract. Disruption of the microbiota is detrimental to health and contributes to the development of numerous diseases and may also be an accelerator of pathophysiological processes such as atherosclerosis. Cardiovascular diseases are the most common cause of death worldwide, so the development of new methods to support the treatment and prevention of these diseases becoms one of the priorities of modern medicine. Probiotics may constitute an important element of support in the treatment and prevention of CVD (cardiovascular diseases). A number of papers support such a statement, however, larger clinical trials are needed. Through a number of mechanisms including mitigating inflammation, sealing the intestinal epithelium, and affecting metabolism, probiotics may have a beneficial effect on general health and slow down the pathogenesis of many diseases, including those affecting the cardiovascular system. This article contains a review of current discoveries on the role of probiotics in the prevention and support of CVD treatment.

Beneficial Effects of Jujube Juice Fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum NXU19009 on Acute Alcoholic Liver Injury in Mice

Red jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) is an important fruit that has the concomitant function of both medicine and food. It has been proven to be rich in various bioactive components. In the present study, jujube juice was fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum NXU19009 to enhance the flavor and nutritional benefits. Its potential for the prevention and treatment of acute alcohol induced-liver injury in mice was examined in this study. The results showed that the administration of the fermented jujube juice along with alcohol significantly decreased (p < 0.01) the liver indices, as well as the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), total triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and liver malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum. In contrast, the levels of liver superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) in mice administered with fermented jujube juice were found to increase significantly (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the administration of fermented jujube juice in mice was found to alter their intestinal microbiota and an improvement was observed based on the results obtained in the histopathology examination. Therefore, Jujube juice fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum NXU19009 protects against liver injury and may prove to be an effective supplement to attenuate acute alcoholic liver injury.

Probiotic Characteristics of Lactiplantibacillus Plantarum N-1 and Its Cholesterol-Lowering Effect in Hypercholesterolemic Rats

In this study, the probiotic potential and treatment effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum N-1 in hypercholesterolemic rats were investigated, and the possible regulatory mechanisms of lipid metabolism via short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase were elucidated. The strain N-1 displayed probiotic properties of antioxidant capacity, adhesion to Caco-2 cells, susceptibility to antibiotics in vitro. The results in animal study showed that the total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in serum and TC in liver declined significantly in both N-1 and simvastatin (Sta) treatment groups compared to the control (P < 0.05), and the extent of these decreases were similar between them. The expression of the HMG-CoA gene in the N-1 group was downregulated significantly by 31.18% compared to the control (P < 0.01), and the contents of butyrate and valerate in N-1 groups were significantly higher than those in both model and Sta group (P < 0.05). Thus, promoting the production of the intestinal SCFAs and inhibiting the expression of HMG-CoA reductase by L. plantarum N-1 may contribute to the improved lipid metabolism and thus lowering cholesterol level in rats. Our investigation indicated that L. plantarum N-1 has the potential to be developed into a functional food supplement for hypercholesterolemia treatment.

Weissella cibaria MG5285 and Lactobacillus reuteri MG5149 attenuated fat accumulation in adipose and hepatic steatosis in high-fat diet-induced C57BL/6J obese mice

Background

Excessive consumption of dietary fat is closely related to obesity, diabetes, insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Recently, probiotics have been highly proposed as biotherapeutic to treat and prevent diseases. Previously, there are studies that demonstrated the beneficial effects of probiotics against metabolic disorders, including obesity and diabetes.

Objective

We investigated the anti-obesity effect and mechanism of action of four human-derived lactic acid bacterial (LAB) strains (Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus MG4502, Lactobacillus gasseri MG4524, Limosilactobacillus reuteri MG5149, and Weissella cibaria MG5285) in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice.

Design

Obesity was induced in mice over 8 weeks, with a 60% HFD. The four human-derived LAB strains (2 × 10⁸ CFU/mouse) were orally administered to male C57BL/6J mice once daily for 8 weeks. Body weight, liver and adipose tissue (AT) weights, glucose tolerance, and serum biochemistry profiles were determined. After collecting the tissues, histopathological and Western blot analyses were conducted.

Results

Administration of these LAB strains resulted in decreased body weight, liver and AT weights, and glucose tolerance. Serum biochemistry profiles, including triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and leptin, pro-inflammatory cytokines, improved. Hepatic steatosis and TG levels in liver tissue were significantly reduced. In addition, the size of adipocytes in epididymal tissue was significantly reduced. In epididymal tissues, Limosilactobacillus reuteri MG5149 and Weissella cibaria MG5285 groups showed a significantly reduced expression of lipogenic proteins, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α, fatty acid synthase (FAS), and adipocyte-protein 2. In addition, sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1-c and its downstream protein FAS in the liver tissue were significantly decreased. These strains attenuated fat accumulation in the liver and AT by upregulating the phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase in HFD-fed mice.

Conclusion

We suggest that L. reuteri MG5149 and W. cibaria MG5285 could be used as potential probiotic candidates to prevent obesity.

The association between daily yogurt consumption and serum lipid profiles in the general adult population: the TCLSIH cohort study

The purpose of this cross-sectional study is to determine the association between yogurt consumption and lipid profiles in the general Chinese population. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 26,824 participants were included from Tianjin, China. Lipid profiles were determined by automated biochemical analyser. Yogurt consumption frequency was assessed by a validated food frequency questionnaire. Analysis of covariance was used to determine the association between daily yogurt consumption and lipid profiles. In the final multivariate model, daily yogurt consumption was negatively associated with triglyceride (TG) (p for trend <0.001) and positively associated with high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (p for trend = 0.02). There were no significant differences (p for trend >0.05) between daily yogurt consumption and total cholesterol (TC) or low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Results suggested that higher daily yogurt consumption was negatively correlated with TG and positively correlated with HDL-C in the general Chinese population.

Surface-Displayed Amuc_1100 From Akkermansia muciniphila on Lactococcus lactis ZHY1 Improves Hepatic Steatosis and Intestinal Health in High-Fat-Fed Zebrafish

Fatty liver and intestinal barrier damage were widespread in most farmed fish, which severely restrict the development of aquaculture. Therefore, there was an urgent need to develop green feed additives to maintain host liver and intestinal health. In this study, a probiotic pili-like protein, Amuc_1100 (AM protein), was anchored to the surface of Lactococcus lactis ZHY1, and the effects of the recombinant bacteria AM-ZHY1 on liver fat accumulation and intestinal health were evaluated. Zebrafish were fed a basal diet, high-fat diet, and high-fat diet with AM-ZHY1 (10⁸ cfu/g) or control bacteria ZHY1 for 4 weeks. Treatment with AM-ZHY1 significantly reduced hepatic steatosis in zebrafish. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) detection showed that the expression of the lipogenesis [peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptors (PPARγ), sterol regulatory element-binding proteins-1c (SREBP-1c), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC1)] and lipid transport genes (CD36 and FABP6) in the liver were significantly downregulated (p < 0.05), indicating that AM-ZHY1 could reduce liver fat accumulation by inhibiting lipid synthesis and absorption. Moreover, supplementing AM-ZHY1 to a high-fat diet could significantly reduce serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, indicating that liver injury caused by high-fat diets was improved. The expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a and interleukin (IL)-6 in the liver decreased significantly (p < 0.05), while IL-1β and IL-10 did not change significantly in the AM-ZHY1 group. Compared to the high-fat diet-fed group, the AM-ZHY1 group, but not the ZHY1 group, significantly increased the expression of intestinal tight junction (TJ) proteins (TJP1a, claudina, claudin7, claudin7b, claudin11a, claudin12, and claudin15a; p < 0.05). Compared to the high-fat diet group, the Proteobacteria and Fusobacteria were significantly reduced and increased in the AM-ZHY1 group, respectively. In conclusion, the recombinant bacteria AM-ZHY1 has the capacity to maintain intestinal health by protecting intestinal integrity and improving intestinal flora structure and improving fatty liver disease by inhibiting lipid synthesis and absorption. This study will lay a foundation for the application of AM protein in improving abnormal fat deposition and restoring the intestinal barrier in fish.

Probiotics and Prebiotics as a Strategy for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, a Narrative Review

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic non-communicable disease, with a prevalence of 25% worldwide. This pathology is a multifactorial illness, and is associated with different risks factors, including hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and obesity. Beside these predisposing features, NAFLD has been related to changes in the microbiota, which favor the disease progression. In this context, the modulation of the gut microbiota has emerged as a new therapeutic target for the prophylaxis and treatment of NAFLD. This review describes the changes in the gut microbiota associated with NAFLD and the effect of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics on the gut microbiota, liver damage, anthropometric parameters, blood lipids, inflammation markers and insulin resistance in these patients.

Probiotic Characterization of Cholesterol-Lowering Lactobacillus fermentum MJM60397

Lactobacillus fermentum MJM60397 was subjected to in vitro safety tests and in vivo probiotic characterization. The MJM60397 strain was susceptible to antibiotics and was found to be non-mucinolytic and non-hemolytic, and does not produce bioamines. In addition, MJM60397 tolerated simulated oro-gastrointestinal conditions and adhered to Caco-2 cells. MJM60397 also exhibited bile salt hydrolase activity and could deconjugate bile acids. The hypocholesterolemic effects of strain MJM60397 were studied in high-fat diet-induced hypercholesterolemic male ICR mice. The mice were fed a high-cholesterol diet (HCD) and were divided into the following three experimental groups: HCD-control (HCD-Con), mice fed with HCD + L. fermentum MJM60397 (HCD-MJM60397), and mice fed with HCD + L. acidophilus ATCC 43121 (HCD-L.ac) as the positive control. Simultaneously, a normal control diet (NCD) group was maintained. After 7 weeks, the total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were significantly reduced in the livers of the HCD-MJM60397 mice when compared to those in the HCD-Con and HCD-L.ac mice. Fecal total bile acid content was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the HCD-MJM60397 group than in the NCD, HCD-Con, and HCD-L.ac groups. Analysis of gene expression revealed higher expression of LDLR gene in the livers of the HCD-MJM60397 and HCD-L.ac mice than in the livers of the HCD-Con mice. These findings show that the hypocholesterolemic effects of the MJM60397 strain were attributable to its bile salt deconjugating activity, which resulted in decreased bile acid absorption and increased excretion of bile acids in the feces. These results indicate that L. fermentum MJM60397 could be developed into a potential probiotic for reducing the serum cholesterol levels.

Probiotic Effects of Lactobacillus fermentum ZJUIDS06 and Lactobacillus plantarum ZY08 on Hypercholesteremic Golden Hamsters

Hypercholesteremia or high cholesterol is one of the important factors leading to atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. The application of probiotics with cholesterol-lowering characteristics has become increasingly popular over the past decade due to their contribution to human health. This study aimed to evaluate the probiotic effects of Lactobacillus fermentum ZJUIDS06 and Lactobacillus plantarum ZY08 on hyperlipidemic golden hamsters. A hyperlipidemic model was established through a high cholesterol diet in golden hamsters, after which lyophilized Lactobacillus fermentum ZJUIDS06 and Lactobacillus plantarum ZY08 were orally administered individually for 8 weeks. The physiological characteristics of golden hamsters and short chain fatty acid (SCFA) in the colon were assessed by automatic Biochemical Analyzer and gas choromatograph, respectively. A MiSeq sequencing-based analysis of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene (V3–V4 region) in the cecum content was performed to analyze the cecum microbiota. Correlations between sets of these variables were also investigated using the R package “corrplot.” Results showed that neither Lactobacillus fermentum ZJUIDS06 nor Lactobacillus plantarum ZY08 inhibited body weight increase. However, supplementation with Lactobacillus fermentum ZJUIDS06 for 8 weeks increased colon SCFA levels (P < 0.05), decreased serum low-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, and triglycerides levels, and also induced changes in the cecum microbiota of hyperlipidemic golden hamsters. Remarkably, oral administration of Lactobacillus fermentum ZJUIDS06 increased the relative abundance of Parabacteroides in the cecum, which served as a biomarker for colon SCFA production and improvement of serum cholesterol levels. In a word, Lactobacillus fermentum ZJUIDS06 improved hyperlipidemia in golden hamsters, which correlated with an increase in SCFA levels and relative abundance of Parabacteroides, indicating its potential importance in functional foods that can help lower cholesterol.

Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus reuteri as Functional Feed Additives to Prevent Diarrhoea in Weaned Piglets

Simple Summary

Antimicrobial resistance is an increasing global concern. Effective alternatives that could replace and reduce antimicrobial treatments in farming have therefore become crucial for animal, human and environmental health. In swine farming, weaning is a stressful phase where piglets can develop multifactorial enteric disorders that require antibiotic treatments. Functional nutrition could thus represent a valuable alternative to reduce and tackle antibiotic resistance. This study assesses the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus reuteri on in-feed supplementation in weaned piglets. After weaning, piglets were allotted to four experimental groups fed a basal diet (CTRL) and a basal diet supplemented with 2 × 10⁸ CFU/g of L. plantarum (PLA), L. reuteri and a combination of the two strains (P+R) for 28 days. Zootechnical performance and diarrhoea occurrence were recorded. Microbiological and serum metabolism analyses of faeces and blood samples were performed. Supplemented groups with lactobacilli showed a lower occurrence of diarrhoea and improved faecal consistency compared to the control. The PLA group registered the lowest diarrhoea frequency during the 28-day experimental period. The results suggest that dietary administration of L. plantarum and L. reuteri could prevent the occurrence of diarrhoea in weaned piglets.

Abstract

The effects of Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus reuteri and their combination were assessed in weaned piglets. Three hundred and fifty weaned piglets (Landrace × Large White), balanced in terms of weight and sex, were randomly allotted to four experimental groups (25 pens, 14 piglets/pen). Piglets were fed a basal control diet (CTRL, six pens) and a treatment diet supplemented with 2 × 10⁸ CFU/g of L. plantarum (PLA, 6 pens), 2 × 10⁸ CFU/g L. reuteri (REU, six pens) and the combination of both bacterial strains (1 × 10⁸ CFU/g of L. plantarum combined with 1 × 10⁸ CFU/g of L. reuteri, P+R, 7 pens) for 28 days. Body weight and feed intake were recorded weekly. Diarrhoea occurrence was assessed weekly by the faecal score (0–3; considering diarrhoea ≥ 2). At 0 and 28 days, faecal samples were obtained from four piglets per pen for microbiological analyses and serum samples were collected from two piglets per pen for serum metabolic profiling. Treatments significantly reduced diarrhoea occurrence and decreased the average faecal score (0.94 ± 0.08 CTRL, 0.31 ± 0.08 PLA, 0.45 ± 0.08 REU, 0.27 ± 0.08 P+R; p < 0.05). The PLA group registered the lowest number of diarrhoea cases compared to other groups (20 cases CTRL, 5 cases PLA, 8 cases REU, 10 cases P+R; p < 0.01). After 28 days, the globulin serum level increased in PLA compared to the other groups (24.91 ± 1.09 g/L CTRL, 28.89 ± 1.03 g/L PLA, 25.91 ± 1.03 g/L REU, 25.31 ± 1.03 g/L P+R; p < 0.05). L. plantarum and L. reuteri could thus be considered as interesting functional additives to prevent diarrhoea occurrence in weaned piglets.

Therapeutic and Improving Function of Lactobacilli in the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular-Related Diseases: A Novel Perspective From Gut Microbiota

The occurrence and development of cardiovascular-related diseases are associated with structural and functional changes in gut microbiota (GM). The accumulation of beneficial gut commensals contributes to the improvement of cardiovascular-related diseases. The cardiovascular-related diseases that can be relieved by Lactobacillus supplementation, including hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, heart failure, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and obesity, have expanded. As probiotics, lactobacilli occupy a substantial part of the GM and play important functional roles through various GM-derived metabolites. Lactobacilli ultimately have a beneficial impact on lipid metabolism, inflammatory factors, and oxidative stress to relieve the symptoms of cardiovascular-related diseases. However, the axis and cellular process of gut commensal Lactobacillus in improving cardiovascular-related diseases have not been fully elucidated. Additionally, Lactobacillus strains produce diverse antimicrobial peptides, which help maintain intestinal homeostasis and ameliorate cardiovascular-related diseases. These strains are a field that needs to be further investigated immediately. Thus, this review demonstrated the mechanisms and summarized the evidence of the benefit of Lactobacillus strain supplementation from animal studies and human clinical trials. We also highlighted a broad range of lactobacilli candidates with therapeutic capability by mining their metabolites. Our study provides instruction in the development of lactobacilli as a functional food to improve cardiovascular-related diseases.

Effects of two potential probiotic Lactobacillus bacteria on adipogenesis in vitro

AIMS

Overweight is a major global health problem. Various methodologies to get rid of the extra fat are available, but usually, those are associated with adverse side effects. Probiotics, on the contrary, seem to have the potential to help reduce fat accumulation without much apparent adversity. In this study, we have evaluated a pair of well-documented probiotics for their anti-obesogenic effects.

MAIN METHODS

We used strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA) and a cocktail (LDB-ST) of Lactobacillus delbruckei sp. bulgaricus (LDB) and Streptococcus thermophilus (ST) in this study. The murine pre-adipocyte cell line 3T3-L1 was terminally differentiated to matured adipocytes to use as a model to evaluate the bacteria's anti-obesogenic effects. The optimal dose for treatment of both the probiotics was determined using a cell viability assay. We assessed the probiotic internalization potential of differentiated 3T3-L1 cells by flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and cell lysis method. We determined the lipolytic and anti-adipogenic potential of probiotics by intracellular lipid staining, spectrophotometry, and gene expression analysis.

KEY FINDINGS

Both probiotics were effective lipolytic agents as revealed by reducing cellular lipids and down-regulation of mammalian adipogenesis marker genes in terminally differentiated 3T3-L1 cells.

SIGNIFICANCE

Previous studies from our group had proven the immune-modulatory properties of these probiotics on an immune-biased mouse model. The present study demonstrates LA and LDB-ST to be effective against adipogenesis. Further in vivo studies will be conducted to strengthen this claim.

New Inhibitory Effect of Latilactobacillus sakei UONUMA on the Cholesterol Biosynthesis Pathway in Human HepG2 Cells

Many pharmaceuticals and dietary foods have been reported to inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis, mainly by inhibiting the presqualene enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase rather than a postsqualene enzyme. In this study, we examined the inhibitory effects of Latilactobacillus sakei UONUMA on cholesterol biosynthesis, especially postsqualene, in human HepG2 hepatoma cells. We quantified cholesterol and its precursors, and the mRNA and protein levels of enzymes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis. Three L. sakei UONUMA strains exhibited new inhibitory effects on cholesterol biosynthesis and inhibited the mRNA level of sterol-delta24-reductase (DHCR24), which is involved in the postsqualene cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. These strains will be useful for the prevention and treatment of hyperlipidemia.

Tracing Lactobacillus plantarum within the intestinal tract of mice: green fluorescent protein-based fluorescent tagging

BACKGROUND

Lactobacillus plantarum is an important probiotic with a variety of physiologic functions. Studies have focused on the effects of L. plantarum on host physiology and microbiota, but studies of the fate of strains after they enter the intestine are lacking. In this study, L. plantarum ST-III was genetically engineered to express green fluorescent protein (GFP). Mice were administered ST-III-GFP, and fluorescence imaging was used to study the distribution, location and quantity of strains within 8 h after entry into the intestine.

RESULTS

The results indicated that genetic modification did not affect the growth of ST-III, tolerance to simulated gastric juice and intestinal fluid or tolerance to antibiotics (with the exception of chloramphenicol). Fluorescence imaging and colony counting indicated that ST-III-GFP can be detected in the small intestine 5 min after oral gavage. After 30 min, nearly all ST-III-GFP was located in the small intestine. After 1.5 h, ST-III-GFP was detected in both the cecum and large intestine. After 4 and 8 h, ST-III-GFP was mainly concentrated in the cecum and large intestine. Compared to the initial amount ingested, the survival rate of ST-III-GFP within the intestine of mice was 10% after 8 h. In addition, a strong linear relationship was found between the fluorescence intensity and the viable count of ST-III-GFP.

CONCLUSIONS

The obtained data indicate that the amount of ST-III-GFP can be estimated by measuring the fluorescence intensity of this novel strain within the intestinal tract. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Gut-microbiota modulation: The impact of thegut-microbiotaon osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common medical conditions affecting > 300 million people globally which represents the formidable public health challenge. Despite its clinical and financial ramifications, there are currently no approved disease modifying OA drugs available and symptom palliation is the only alternative. Currently, the amount of data on the human intestinal microbiome is growing at a high rate, both in health and in various pathological conditions. With an increase in the amount of the accumulated data, there is an expanded understanding that the microbiome provides compelling evidence of a link between thegut microbiomeand development ofOA. The microbiota management tools of probiotics and/or prebiotics or symbiotic have been developed and indeed, commercialized over the past few decades with the expressed purpose of altering the microbiota within the gastrointestinal tract which could be a potentially novel intervention to tackle or prevent OA. However, the mechanisms how intestinal microbiota affects the OA pathogenesis are still not clear and further research targeting specific gut microbiota or its metabolites is still needed to advance OA treatment strategies from symptomatic management to individualized interventions of OA pathogenesis. This article provides an overview of the various preclinical and clinical studies using probiotics and prebiotics as plausible therapeutic options that can restore the gastrointestinal microbiota and its impact on the OA pathogenesis. May be in the near future the targeted alterations of gut microbiota may pave the way for developing new interventions to prevent and treat OA.

Effect of Lactobacillus fermentum MCC2760-Based Probiotic Curd on Hypercholesterolemic C57BL6 Mice

Lactobacillus fermentum MCC2760 is a probiotic strain proven earlier for cholesterol-reducing and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in vivo. This study investigates L. fermentum MCC2760-based probiotic curd in high-cholesterol diet (HCD)-fed C57BL6 mice. The mice were grouped into normal diet control, high-cholesterol diet control, normal diet with probiotic supplementation, and high-cholesterol diet with probiotic supplementation. Control groups and treatment groups were supplemented with market curd and probiotic curd, respectively, via oral gavage for eight weeks. The probiotic count was maintained at 10.95 log CFU/mL in the developed probiotic curd. The HCD group showed an increase in feed intake and body weight. Reduction in the levels of serum cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, glucose, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine transaminase was observed in probiotic-supplemented groups. The probiotic-supplemented group resulted in an increase in Lactobacillus spp. count along with reduced pathogen count in the feces. Probiotic supplementation also showed a reduction in the bacterial translocation count in mesenteric adipose tissue. Expression of inflammatory markers by qPCR showed the decline in the fold change of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-12 and elevation in the fold change of IL-10 in the adipose tissue of the probiotic-treated group. Probiotic supplementation also improved the expression of GLP-1, ZO-1, and CB2 in the intestine. They were thus possibly playing a role in the enhancement of barrier function. Histopathological sections showed improvement in the cellular infiltration and pathological indications due to the high-cholesterol diet intake. Our study also confirmed that probiotics could increase serum antioxidant enzymes in treated groups, showing their beneficial antioxidant activity. It suggests the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effect, and gut barrier function of the given probiotic formulation, which ameliorate hypercholesterolemia.

An appraisal of the gut health modulatory effects of a calf faecal-origin probiotic Lactobacillus salivarius CPN60 using Wistar rats with dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis

BACKGROUND

Probiotics of varied origins are being developed for augmenting the gut health of human and animals. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of a calf-origin probiotic supplement on the gut health of Wistar rats for both healthy and colitis conditions.

RESULTS

Forty-eight rats were randomly distributed into four equal groups. The 42-day study involved feeding basal diet alone (CON) or diet supplemented with the calf-origin Lactobacillus salivarius strain CPN60 (PRO). The third (CONc) and fourth (PROc) groups of rats also received the same dietary treatments (CON and PRO, respectively) but were subjected to dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis after 32 days of feeding. The results of a digestion trial conducted after 5 days of DSS administration revealed no influence of probiotic on the digestibility of nutrients. However, the reduced digestibility of protein and fat seen in the CONc rats was improved in the PROc group. The concentrations of lactate and acetate, propionate and butyrate, as well as total short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), were increased (P < 0.05) in the caecal and colonic digesta upon probiotic supplementation, together with significantly reduced colonic ammonia levels. Furthermore, there were reductions (P < 0.05) in acetate, butyrate and total SCFA levels in the caecal contents as a result of colitis. Probiotic supplementation increased (P < 0.05) lactobacilli and bifidobacteria counts in the colon, whereas clostridia and coliform counts were reduced (P < 0.05). These were reversed by the probiotic supplementation.

CONCLUSION

Dietary supplementation of L. salivarius CPN60 had a positive effect with respect to improving the overall gut health of healthy rats, as well as that of rats exposed to experimental colitis. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Assessment of exopolysaccharides, bacteriocins and in vitro and in vivo hypocholesterolemic potential of some Egyptian Lactobacillus spp

Lactobacilli probiotics have been suggested to reduce cholesterol with low side effects to host. Bacteriocins and exopolysaccharides (EPSs) production are two meaningful examples of functional applications of lactobacilli in the food industry. Eight Lactobacillus strains were isolated from some Egyptian fermented food and tested for their probiotic properties. Analysis of the monosaccharide composition by thin layer chromatography showed the presence of glucose, galactose and unknown sugar. The main functional groups of EPSs were elucidated by Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Their fermentation cultures displayed powerful antioxidant activities extending from 97.5 to 99%, 40-75% for their EPSs and free cells, respectively, and exhibited in vitro cholesterol downgrading from 48 to 82% and 72 to 91% after 48 and 120 h, respectively. Their EPSs showed good anticancer activities against carcinoma cells with low IC₅₀ values for HCT-116, PC-3 and HepG-2 cells. To the best of our knowledge, there have been no previous reports on the potential of Lactobacillus EPSs activity against PC-3. The selected strains, L. plantarum KU985433 and L. rhamnosus KU985436 produced two different bacteriocins as detected by gel permeation chromatography with good antimicrobial activities. In vivo study demonstrated that feeding Westar rats with fermented milk exhibited greater cholesterol, LDL and blood triglyceride reduction for both strains. Whereas, HDL was increased by about 43 and 38%, respectively, and the atherogenic indices decreased.

Probiotic-fermented black tartary buckwheat alleviates hyperlipidemia and gut microbiota dysbiosis in rats fed with a high-fat diet

Natural plants fermented with probiotics exert beneficial effects on hyperlipidemia and gut microbiota disorders. This study aimed to investigate the hypolipidemic activity of fermented black tartary buckwheat (FBTB) in rats with hyperlipidemia induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) in association with the regulation of gut microbiota. Probiotic fermentation by Bacillus sp. DU-106 obviously increased the contents of tyrosine, lysine, total flavonoids, total polyphenols, quercetin, and kaempferol in black tartary buckwheat (BTB) and significantly decreased the rutin content. FBTB treatment for 8 weeks significantly decreased the levels of serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in HFD-induced hyperlipidemic rats. Western blot analysis further confirmed that the protein expression levels of FXR, SREBP1, and PPARα were altered after FBTB treatment. Moreover, FBTB intervention altered the gut microbiota of HFD-fed rats by increasing the relative abundances of Lactobacillus, Faecalibaculum, and Allobaculum and decreasing the relative abundance of Romboutsia. The relative abundance of Allobaculum was positively correlated with the levels of tyrosine, total flavonoids, total polyphenols, quercetin and kaempferol and negatively correlated with that of rutin. These results suggested that FBTB could alleviate hyperlipidemia and gut microbiota dysbiosis in HFD-fed rats.

Lactobacillus delbrueckii Interfere With Bile Acid Enterohepatic Circulation to Regulate Cholesterol Metabolism of Growing-Finishing Pigs via Its Bile Salt Hydrolase Activity

Microbiota-targeted therapies for hypercholesterolemia get more and more attention and are recognized as an effective strategy for preventing and treating cardiovascular disease. The experiment was conducted to investigate the cholesterol-lowering mechanism of Lactobacillus delbrueckii in a pig model. Twelve barrows (38.70 ± 5.33 kg) were randomly allocated to two groups and fed corn–soybean meal diets with either 0% (Con) or 0.1% Lactobacillus delbrueckii (Con + LD) for 28 days. L. delbrueckii–fed pigs had lower serum contents of total cholesterol (TC), total bile acids (TBAs), and triglyceride, but higher fecal TC and TBA excretion. L. delbrueckii treatment increased ileal Lactobacillus abundance and bile acid (BA) deconjugation and affected serum and hepatic BA composition. Dietary L. delbrueckii downregulated the gene expression of ileal apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter (ASBT) and ileal bile acid binding protein (IBABP), and hepatic farnesoid X receptor (FXR), fibroblast growth factor (FGF19), and small heterodimer partner (SHP), but upregulated hepatic high-density lipoprotein receptor (HDLR), low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), sterol regulatory element binding protein-2 (SREBP-2), and cholesterol-7α hydroxylase (CYP7A1) expression. Our results provided in vivo evidence that L. delbrueckii promote ileal BA deconjugation with subsequent fecal TC and TBA extraction by modifying ileal microbiota composition and induce hepatic BA neosynthesis via regulating gut–liver FXR–FGF19 axis.

Effect of gut microbiota on depressive-like behaviors in mice is mediated by the endocannabinoid system

Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Recent observations have revealed an association between mood disorders and alterations of the intestinal microbiota. Here, using unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) as a mouse model of depression, we show that UCMS mice display phenotypic alterations, which could be transferred from UCMS donors to naïve recipient mice by fecal microbiota transplantation. The cellular and behavioral alterations observed in recipient mice were accompanied by a decrease in the endocannabinoid (eCB) signaling due to lower peripheral levels of fatty acid precursors of eCB ligands. The adverse effects of UCMS-transferred microbiota were alleviated by selectively enhancing the central eCB or by complementation with a strain of the Lactobacilli genus. Our findings provide a mechanistic scenario for how chronic stress, diet and gut microbiota generate a pathological feed-forward loop that contributes to despair behavior via the central eCB system.