Significance of Dietary Modulation of Intestinal Flora and Intestinal Environment

Effect of paprika extracts on growth performance, haemolymph chemistry, intestinal microbiota and antioxidant enzyme activities of white-leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)

This study aims to evaluate the effects of paprika extract on the survival rate, growth performance and stimulation of the innate immune system of Litopenaeus vannamei. In this experiment, 240 healthy shrimp (3.22 ± 0.12 g) were randomly divided into four groups. The shrimp were fed diets with different concentrations of paprika oil extracts (0%, 0.5%, 1% and 2%) for 8 weeks. The results showed that growth performance, urea, uric acid, creatinine, cholesterol levels, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities were not significantly affected by adding paprika extract to the shrimp diet (p > 0.05). Diets containing 1% and 0.5% paprika extract showed the highest levels of total protein and triglyceride, respectively (p < 0.05). There was a significant decrease in haemolymph glucose concentration in shrimp-fed diets containing 1% and 2% paprika extract (p < 0.05). Moreover, a diet containing 0.5% paprika extract resulted in the highest levels of total heamocyte count, hyaline cells and large-granular cells in shrimp (p < 0.05). Higher catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were also exhibited in the paprika groups (p < 0.05). Vibrio sp. bacteria were not significantly reduced by paprika extract in the intestines of L. vannamei (p > 0.05). A significant decrease in heterotrophic bacteria was observed with increasing extract concentrations (p < 0.05). The shrimp culture industry can utilize paprika extract as a cost-effective, efficient and environmentally friendly immune stimulant at a concentration of 0.5%.

A promising area of research in medicine: recent advances in properties and applications of Lactobacillus-derived exosomes

Lactobacillus-derived exosomes, small extracellular vesicles released by bacteria, have emerged as a promising area of research in recent years. These exosomes possess a unique structural and functional diversity that allows them to regulate the immune response and promote gut health. The isolation and purification of these exosomes are crucial for their effective use as a therapeutic agent. Several isolation and purification methods have been developed, including differential ultracentrifugation, density gradient centrifugation, and size-exclusion chromatography. Lactobacillus-derived exosomes have been demonstrated to have therapeutic potential in various diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease, and neurological disorders. Moreover, they have been shown to serve as effective carriers for drug delivery. Genetic engineering of these exosomes has also shown promise in enhancing their therapeutic potential. Overall, Lactobacillus-derived exosomes represent a promising area of research for the development of novel therapeutics for immunomodulation, gut health, and drug delivery.

K-Clique Multiomics Framework: A Novel Protocol to Decipher the Role of Gut Microbiota Communities in Nutritional Intervention Trials

The availability of omics data providing information from different layers of complex biological processes that link nutrition to human health would benefit from the development of integrated approaches combining holistically individual omics data, including those associated with the microbiota that impacts the metabolisation and bioavailability of food components. Microbiota must be considered as a set of populations of interconnected consortia, with compensatory capacities to adapt to different nutritional intake. To study the consortium nature of the microbiome, we must rely on specially designed data analysis tools. The purpose of this work is to propose the construction of a general correlation network-based explorative tool, suitable for nutritional clinical trials, by integrating omics data from faecal microbial taxa, stool metabolome (1H NMR spectra) and GC-MS for stool volatilome. The presented approach exploits a descriptive paradigm necessary for a true multiomics integration of data, which is a powerful tool to investigate the complex physiological effects of nutritional interventions.

Biogenic action of Lactobacillus plantarum SBT2227 promotes sleep in Drosophila melanogaster

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) influence multiple aspects of host brain function via the production of active metabolites in the gut, which is known as the pre/probiotic action. However, little is known about the biogenic effects of LAB on host brain function. Here, we reported that the Lactobacillus plantarum SBT2227 promoted sleep in Drosophila melanogaster. Administration of SBT2227 primarily increased the amount of sleep and decreased sleep latency at the beginning of night-time. The sleep-promoting effects of SBT2227 were independent of the existing gut flora. Furthermore, heat treatment or mechanical crushing of SBT2227 did not suppress the sleep-promoting effects, indicative of biogenic action. Transcriptome analysis and RNAi mini-screening for gut-derived peptide hormones revealed the requirement of neuropeptide F, a homolog of the mammalian neuropeptide Y, for the action of SBT2227. These biogenic effects of SBT2227 on the host sleep provide new insights into the interaction between the brain and gut bacteria.

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Lactobacillus plantarum SBT2227 promotes sleep at the onset of nighttime

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Existing intestinal microbes do not affect the SBT2227 sleep effect

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Heat-stable intracellular/intramembrane components are candidates for active substances

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Neuropeptide F is required for the sleep-promoting effect of SBT2227

The interaction among gut microbes, the intestinal barrier and short chain fatty acids

The mammalian gut is inhabited by a massive and complicated microbial community, in which the host achieves a stable symbiotic environment through the interdependence, coordination, reciprocal constraints and participation in an immune response. The interaction between the host gut and the microbiota is essential for maintaining and achieving the homeostasis of the organism. Consequently, gut homeostasis is pivotal in safeguarding the growth and development and potential productive performance of the host. As metabolites of microorganisms, short chain fatty acids are not only the preferred energy metabolic feedstock for host intestinal epithelial cells, but also exert vital effects on antioxidants and the regulation of intestinal community homeostasis. Herein, we summarize the effects of intestinal microorganisms on the host gut and the mechanisms of action of short chain fatty acids on the four intestinal barriers of the organism, which will shed light on the manipulation of the intestinal community to achieve precise nutrition for specific individuals and provide a novel perspective for the prevention and treatment of diseases.

Changes in serum biochemical parameters of experimental Trypanosoma brucei brucei-infected Nigerian indigenous dogs administered multispecies probiotic and diminazene aceturate

Trypanosomosis is an infectious disease with great economic impact on livestock production. In this study, the effects of probiotic on serum biochemical changes of Nigerian indigenous dogs experimentally infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei were investigated. Twenty (20) healthy dogs of both sexes (6-10 kg body weight) following screening, were randomly divided into 5 groups of 4 dogs each. Dogs in group I (uninfected and untreated); group II (uninfected + multi species (Pet dophillus®) probiotic); group III (infected + multi species probiotic); group IV (infected + diaminazene aceturate); and group V (infected + probiotic + diminazene aceturate). Dogs were fed probiotic for 21 days before infection, and up to the last day post-infection (PI). Dogs in infected groups were inoculated intraperitonially with 2.5 × 10⁶ trypanosomes on day 21 and diminazene aceturate was administered on day 5 post-infection (PI). Prepatent period and parasitaemia were determined. Blood was collected in plain sample bottles and serum harvested for serum biochemical analyses. Prepatent periods of T. brucei brucei were 4.75 ± 0.25 days (group III), 4.00 ± 0.41 days (group IV) and 4.25 ± 0.49 days (groups V); and parasitaemia was significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in groups IV and V compared to group III post-treatment. Mean serum total protein was significantly increased in group III from day 28 up to the end of the study. No significant (P > 0.05) differences existed in the mean serum albumin and creatinine levels in all groups of dogs. The mean serum activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were increased significantly (P < 0.05) in group III post infection up to the end of the study. In conclusion, the multispecies probiotic enhanced the efficacy of diaminazene aceturate in mitigating the serum biochemical changes due to experimental T. brucei brucei infection in dogs.

Development of the gut microbiota and dysbiosis in children

The gut microbiota resides in the human gastrointestinal tract, where it plays an important role in maintaining host health. Recent advancements in next-generation sequencing methods have revealed the link between dysbiosis (imbalance of the normal gut microbiota) and several diseases, as this imbalance can disrupt the symbiotic relationship between the host and associated microbes. Establishment of the gut microbiota starts in utero or just after birth, and its composition dramatically changes to an adult-like composition by 3 years of age. Because dysbiosis during childhood may persist through adulthood, it is crucial to acquire a balanced gut microbiota in childhood. Therefore, current studies have focused on the factors affecting the infant gut microbiota. This review discusses recent findings, including those from our studies, on how various factors, including the delivery mode, feeding type, and administration of drugs, including antibiotics, can influence the infant gut microbiota. Here, we also address future approaches for the prevention and restoration of dysbiosis in children.

Effects of dietary feed supplementation of heat-treated Lactobacillus sakei HS-1 on the health status, blood parameters, and fecal microbes of Japanese Black calves

This study investigated the effect of heat-killed Lactobacillus sakei HS-1 (HK-LS HS-1) on the health and fecal bacteriological change of suckling Japanese Black calves as a supplement in milk replacers. Twelve calves were separated from dams to calf-hatch after calving for milk replacers feeding. They were randomly assigned to an HK-LS HS-1 supplement or a control without HK-LS HS-1 group in milk replacers. HK-LS HS-1 was administered from separation day to 3 weeks. Blood and fecal samples were examined. Two calves with a haptoglobin concentration of >500 µg/ml on day 0 were excluded from the experiment, and 10 calves were finally included. Glucose and vitamin A levels on day 7 were significantly higher (P<0.05) in the supplement group than in the control group. No significant differences were observed in haptoglobin or serum amyloid A between the groups. The number of Escherichia coli in feces was lower in the control group than in the supplement group on day 21 (P=0.06). No difference was observed in the number of bifidobacteria, but that of lactic acid bacteria was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the supplement group on day 21. The number of medications administered was significantly lower (P<0.05) in the supplement group (5.2 ± 3.9) than in the control group (10.6 ± 5.9) during the experimental period. The results indicated that HK-LS HS-1 is potentially beneficial for improving intestinal microbes and reducing the number of medical treatments.

Yeast mannan increases Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron abundance and suppresses putrefactive compound production in in vitro fecal microbiota fermentation

Yeast mannan is a part of yeast cell wall and can potentially affect gut microflora as a soluble dietary fiber. We demonstrated that yeast mannan suppressed putrefactive production and increased the relative abundance of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron in in vitro fecal fermentation. These results suggest that yeast mannan can be used as a novel prebiotic food ingredient.

Unexpected effect of probiotics by Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis against colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium in mice

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a representative intestinal chronic inflammatory disease whose incidence is rapidly increasing worldwide. It was previously shown that some specific probiotics help to guard against UC. In this study, we analyzed the effect of Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis JCM5805 (L. lactis), which has been put to practical use as a probiotic, on the pathogenesis of UC using a dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis mouse model. Survival rate, length, and histopathological parameters of the colon were elucidated. Further, the concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in serum were measured. As a result, the oral administration of high-dose L. lactis showed significant decreases in survival rate and colon length. Histopathological analysis showed that a bleeding appearance was observed in the L. lactis group, and the histology scores in the L. lactis group were significantly higher than those in the normal saline group. Furthermore, the levels of interferon gamma, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interleukin-6 were significantly elevated in the L. lactis group. These results support that high-dose administration of L. lactis deteriorates intestinal inflammation and suggest that the careful selection of probiotics strains and administration dose is important for improving colitis including UC.

S-Layer Protein of Lactobacillus helveticus SBT2171 Promotes Human β-Defensin 2 Expression via TLR2-JNK Signaling

Antimicrobial peptides that contribute to innate immunity are among the most important protective measures against infection in many organisms. Several substances are known to regulate the expression of antimicrobial peptides. In this study, we investigated the factors in lactic acid bacteria (LAB) that induce antimicrobial peptide expression in the host. We found that Lactobacillus helveticus SBT2171 (LH2171) induced the expression of human β-defensin (hBD)2 in Caco-2 human colonic epithelial cells. Specifically, surface layer protein (SLP) of LH2171 stimulated hBD2 expression by activating c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling via Toll-like receptor (TLR)2 in Caco-2 cells. SLPs extracted from other lactobacilli similarly increased hBD2 expression, suggesting that this stimulatory effect is common feature of Lactobacillus SLPs. Interestingly, Lactobacillus strains that strongly induced hBD2 expression also potently activated JNK signaling. Thus, upregulation of hBD2 induced by TLR2–JNK signaling contributes to protection of the host against infection.

Simple and Rapid Method for Separating Lactic Acid Bacteria from Commercially Prepared Yogurt

We have reported a simple method for separating lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from yogurt. This method is based on the process of destructions and denaturation of casein micelle aggregates by vortexing, and can supply samples containing only LAB. Recovered LAB were clearly observable by microscopy, meaning that morphological changes could be directly detected at the single-cell level. This method will be a helpful tool for the analyzing various LAB, including their enzyme activity and protein expression.

Aggregation of Lactobacillus brevis associated with decrease in pH by glucose fermentation

Some Lactobacillus brevis strains were found to aggregate upon the addition of glucose, which resulted in glucose fermentation and pH decrease. Surface layer proteins (Slp) that represented the outermost layer of the bacteria decreased under these low pH conditions, probably because of the partial detachment of Slp from the cell surface triggered by the acidic environment. Similar observations of decreased Slp and aggregation were observed under the culture conditions, confirming that L. brevis aggregation was due to the partial Slp detachment under the acidic conditions of glucose fermentation. Such Slp detachment might affect the electrostatic nature of L. brevis cells by initiating the formation of irregular charge across the L. brevis cell surface, thereby leading to aggregation. These observations would be useful for elucidating the aggregation mechanism of lactic acid bacteria, which was considered to be involved in the probiotic effect of the bacteria.

Lactobacillus helveticus SBT2171 upregulates the expression of β-defensin and ameliorates periodontal disease caused by Porphyromonas gingivalis

Antimicrobial peptides play important roles in the innate immune system of various organisms, and they may also be considered to prevent the organisms from infections. In particular, β-defensins, mainly produced in epithelial cells, are recognized as one of the major antimicrobial peptides in mammals, including humans. In this study, we showed that Lactobacillus helveticus SBT2171 (LH2171), one of the several species of lactic acid bacteria, upregulates the production of β-defensins in oral epithelial cells in vitro. Moreover, LH2171 reduced the increase of proinflammatory cytokine expression, induced by Porphyromonas gingivalis stimulation, in gingival epithelial cells. These data suggested that LH2171 suppresses P. gingivalis-induced inflammation by upregulating the expression of β-defensins in gingival epithelial cells. We subsequently investigated the effects of LH2171 in vivo and revealed that β-defensin expression was increased in the oral cavities of LH2171-fed mice. Furthermore, LH2171 decreased alveolar bone loss, gingival inflammation, and amounts of P. gingivalis-specific 16S ribosomal RNA in the gingiva of P. gingivalis-inoculated mice. Taken together, our results showed that LH2171 upregulates the expression of β-defensins in oral cavity, thereby decreasing the number of P. gingivalis consequently ameliorating the experimental periodontal disease.

Dietary Fructooligosaccharide and Glucomannan Alter Gut Microbiota and Improve Bone Metabolism in Senescence-Accelerated Mouse

Gut microbiota improved using prebiotics may delay the onset of senescence-related health problems. We hypothesized that prolonged intake of prebiotics delays senile osteoporosis. Forty-five male senescence-accelerated mouse prone 6 (SAMP6) aged four weeks were raised on 5% fructooligosaccharide (FOS), 5% glucomannan (GM), or a control diet for 31 weeks. Gut microbiota were identified using culture-dependent analytical methods. Mineral content in femoral bone was analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Bone metabolism and inflammatory markers were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The numbers of Lactobacillus and Bacteroides in cecal contents were significantly higher in the FOS than in the control group ( p < 0.05); the number of Clostridium was significantly higher in the GM than in the control group ( p < 0.05). Calcium content was significantly higher in the femoral bones of the FOS group (30.5 ± 0.8 mg) than in the control group (27.5 ± 1.5 mg) ( p < 0.05). There was no difference between the GM (29.1 ± 2.0 mg) and control groups. During senescence, urinary deoxypyridinoline and serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels significantly decreased in the FOS (1.2 ± 0.2 nmol/3 d and 80 ± 6.1 ng/100 mL) and GM groups (1.2 ± 0.2 nmol/3 d and 80 ± 6.1 ng/100 mL) compared with the control group (1.8 ± 0.5 nmol/3 d and 93 ± 7.4 ng/100 mL) ( p < 0.05). Thus, dietary FOS and GM modified gut microbiota and reduced bone resorption by reducing systemic inflammation in SAMP6.

Influence of Oral Administration of Lactic Acid Bacteria Metabolites on Skin Barrier Function and Water Content in a Murine Model of Atopic Dermatitis

The effects of orally administered lactic acid bacteria metabolites on skin were studied using an atopic dermatitis-like murine model generated by feeding HR-AD to mice. Lactic acid bacteria metabolites were obtained by inoculating and culturing soy milk with 35 strains of 16 species of lactic acid bacteria. The atopic dermatitis-like murine model was generated by feeding HR-AD to HR-1 mice for 40 days. The skin condition of HR-AD-fed mice worsened compared with normal mice, showing reduced water content in the stratum corneum, increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), reduced ceramide AP content in the stratum corneum, and increased epidermis thickness. When HR-AD-fed mice were orally administered a raw liquid containing lactic acid bacteria metabolites, water content in the stratum corneum, TEWL, ceramide AP content in the stratum corneum, and epidermis thickness improved. To determine the active components responsible for these effects, filtrate, residue, and lipid components extracted from the raw liquid containing lactic acid bacteria metabolites were examined. While water-soluble components and residue obtained after filtration had no effects, the lipid fraction showed similar effects to the raw liquid. These findings suggest that lactic acid bacteria metabolites improve skin injury in an atopic dermatitis-like murine model.

Pre-surgical Administration of Microbial Cell Preparation in Colorectal Cancer Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

Disruption of normal gut function is a common side effect post abdominal surgery. It may result in reduced tolerance to oral nutrition and progress to postoperative ileus. Microbial cell preparation is beneficial as a pre-surgical nutritional supplement to aid in bowel recovery and promote the return of normal gut function following abdominal surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of pre-surgical administration of microbial cell preparation in promoting the return of normal gut function.

METHOD

The study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. In total, 40 patients were recruited. Patients were randomized to receive either microbial cell preparation (n = 20) or placebo (n = 20) for 7 days prior to elective surgery. The primary end point was the time to return of normal gut function, while the secondary end point was the duration of hospital stay.

RESULTS

The treatment group demonstrated significantly faster return of normal gut function with a median of 108.5 h (80-250 h) which was 48 h earlier than the placebo group at a median of 156.5 h (94-220 h), p = 0.022. The duration of hospital stay in the treatment group was also shorter at a median of 6.5 days (4-30 days), in comparison to the placebo group at 13 days (5-25 days), p = 0.012.

CONCLUSION

Pre-surgical administration of microbial cell preparation promotes the return of normal gut function in patients after colorectal cancer surgery, thus associated with faster recovery and shorter duration of hospital stay.

The effect of soymilk intake on the fecal microbiota, particularly Bifidobacterium species, and intestinal environment of healthy adults: a pilot study

The influence of soymilk on the fecal microbiota, particularly Bifidobacterium species, and metabolic activities were investigated in eight healthy adult humans. During the soymilk intake period, the number of bifidobacteria in feces was significantly higher (p<0.05) on day 14 of the soymilk intake period than before the intake period, whereas that of Enterobacteriaceae was significantly lower (p<0.05) on days 7 and 14 of the soymilk intake period than before the intake period. In an investigation of Bifidobacterium at the species or group level, the numbers of all species and groups studied slightly increased during the soymilk intake period. These results show that the intake of soymilk may contribute to improving the intestinal environment.

[Intestinal microbiota and ageing: A new intervention route?]

Intestinal microbiota (IM) has continued to be the subject in all types of studies and publications. More is known on its different components and functions, as well as the changes that take place in IM through the life cycle, and the role of the factors involved in these changes. The aim of this review is to update the relationship between IM and aging. The presentation in 4 sections: (i)main factors of the human ageing process, underlining those related with gut changes; (ii)conceptual meaning of words like microbiota and other related terms; (iii)to comment on the most current findings as regards the changes in IM that occur in the ageing process, whether arising from the physiology or from disease situations, or other factors (environment, diet, drugs, etc.), and the health-consequences of these changes, and (iv)possibilities of different active positive interventions, with emphasis on diet measures.

Therapeutic Application of Synbiotics, a Fusion of Probiotics and Prebiotics, and Biogenics as a New Concept for Oral Candida Infections: A Mini Review

Candida is a major human fungal pathogen causing infectious conditions predominantly in the elderly and immunocompromised hosts. Although Candida resides as a member of the oral indigenous microbiota in symbiosis, some circumstances may cause microbial imbalance leading to dysbiosis and resultant oral candidiasis. Therefore, oral microbial symbiosis that suppresses the overgrowth of Candida is important for a healthy oral ecosystem. In this regard, probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics can be considered a potential therapeutic and preventive strategy against oral candidiasis. Prebiotics have a direct effect on microbial growth as they stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria and suppress the growth of pathogens. Probiotics render a local protective effect against pathogens and a systemic indirect effect on immunological amelioration. Synbiotics are fusion products of prebiotics and probiotics. This mini review discusses the potential use and associated limitations of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics for the prevention and treatment of oral candidiasis. We will also introduce biogenics, a recent concept derived from the work on probiotics. Biogenics advocates the use of beneficial bioactive substances produced by probiotic bacteria, whose activities are independent from the viability of probiotic bacteria in human bodies.

Impact of perioperative probiotic treatment for surgical site infections in patients with colorectal cancer

The aim of the present study was to estimate the effect of the perioperative administration of probiotics in patients undergoing colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery. The study focused on a total of 156 consecutive surgeries carried out from among all the elective CRC surgeries performed between April 2009 and March 2013. The patients involved in surgeries undertaken between April 2009 and October 2011 were placed in the non-probiotic group (group A, 81 patients) and those involved in surgeries between November 2011 and March 2013 were placed in the probiotic group (group B, 75 patients). Postoperative infectious complications were recorded, and the immune responses and fecal microbiota were determined. A breakdown of infectious complications showed that 21 (13.5%) patients experienced superficial incisional surgical site infections (SSIs), of which 16 patients were from group A (19.8%), and five patients from group B (6.7%) (P=0.016). The ImmuKnow® adenosine triphosphate values peaked on the first postoperative day (POD) in both groups. In group A, the ImmuKnow value of the first POD was increased significantly compared with the preoperative value (P=0.022). In group B, the value of the first POD did not increase compared with the preoperative value (P=0.28). In conclusion, probiotic treatment can reduce superficial incisional SSIs in patients undergoing CRC surgery. Perioperative probiotic treatment can enhance immune responses and improve the intestinal microbial environment.

Xylan-mediated aggregation of Lactobacillus brevis and its relationship with the surface properties and mucin-mediated aggregation of the bacteria

Some Lactobacillus brevis strains were found to aggregate upon the addition of xylan after screening for lactic acid bacteria that interact with plant materials. The S-layer proteins of cell surface varied among the strains. The strains that displayed xylan-mediated aggregation retained its ability even after the removal of S-layer proteins. L. brevis had negative zeta potentials. A correlation between the strength of aggregation and zeta potential was not observed. However, partial removal of S-layer proteins resulted in decreases in the electric potential and aggregation ability of some strains. Therefore, xylan-mediated aggregation of L. brevis was considered to be caused by an electrostatic effect between the cells and xylan. L. brevis also aggregated in the presence of mucin, and the strengths of aggregation among the strains were similar to that induced by xylan. Thus, xylan- and mucin-mediated L. brevis aggregation was supposed to be caused by a similar mechanism.

Development of functional foods

Recent advances in intestinal microbiota research are the background for the appearance of functional foods. Lactic fermentation products are included in the functional foods and classified into 3 groups based on their mechanisms of action: probiotics, prebiotics and biogenics. Probiotics are viable microorganisms, such as lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, that beneficially affect the host by improving the intestinal bacterial balance. Prebiotics are nondigestible food ingredients, such as oligosaccharides and dietary fiber, that beneficially affect the host by selectively stimulating the growth or activities of beneficial intestinal bacteria in the colon and thus improve the health of the hosts. Biogenics are biologically active peptides, including immunopotentiators (biological response modifier: BRM), plant flavonoids, etc. They act directly or indirectly through modulation of intestinal microbiota on the health of the hosts. Thus, functional foods enhance bioregulation such as stresses, appetite and absorption; biodefence, such as immunity and suppression of allergies; prevent diseases, including diarrhea, constipation, cancer, cholesterolemia and diabetes; and suppress aging through immunostimulation as well as suppression of mutagenesis, carcinogenesis, oxidation processes, intestinal putrefaction, and cholesterolemia.

Recollections of my young days: -the pleasure of creation-

I was bashful by nature. In elementary school, I was enthusiastic about painting pictures, posters, and calligraphy, and making butterfly specimens and models. When I entered the middle school of Seikei Gakuen, I was fortunate to have good teachers and friends. Prof. Kusatao Nakamura taught us the “Preciousness of the pureness of heart”, which is the principle of my life. After World War II, school classes reopened. I was deeply moved by the lecture of botany by Prof. Fumio Maekawa, and had a notion that I should like to make research my lifework. I went to high school and had the worries of my life. During that time, it was the book Gakusei ni atau by Prof. Eijirou Kawai, and a speech by Prof. Tadao Yanaihara, that sustained my heart. In 1953, I entered the postgraduate course of the University of Tokyo, and received the guidance of Prof. Yuichi Ochi. This matter was decisive for my life. First of all, I developed a new medium, BL agar, for culturing intestinal bacteria, and then I discovered that Bifidus bacteria was one of the predominant organisms in human adults. This discovery became the basis of my research until today. For two years from 1964, I studied abroad in Germany and made good friends, to whom I owe an inestimable debt of gratitude. After returning to Japan, I discovered a number of rules governing the intestinal ecosystem. Thus, a new interdisciplinary field, intestinal bacteriology, was established. Subsequently, I discovered the health effects of fermented milks and oligosaccharides and proposed “biogenics”. I firmly believe that the fruit of creation is granted as a result of endeavoring with a pure heart.

Effects of non-fermented and fermented soybean milk intake on faecal microbiota and faecal metabolites in humans

The effects of non-fermented soybean milk (NFSM) and fermented soybean milk (FSM) intake on the faecal microbiota and metabolic activities in 10 healthy volunteers were investigated. Soybean oligosaccharides, raffinose and stachyose were utilized by bifidobacteria except for Bifidobacterium bifidum, but most strains of Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens could not use them. During the dietary administration of FSM, the number of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in the faeces increased (p < 0.05), and clostridia decreased (p < 0.05). Moreover, the concentrations of faecal sulphide were decreased (p < 0.01) in the intake of FSM. During the dietary administration of NFSM, the number of bifidobacteria tended to increase. These results indicate that the consumption of soybean milk, especially FSM, is related to improvement of the intestinal environment.

The effects of a prebiotic supplement (Prebio Support) on fecal and salivary IgA in neonatal dairy calves

The newborn calf's gastrointestinal tract is sterile at birth, but by 3 days of age coliforms, Lactobacilli, and Bifidobacteria are the predominant flora in the feces. During the preweaning period, calves are susceptible to diarrhea that can lead to high levels of morbidity and mortality. Diarrhea has been related with a decrease of beneficial microbiota and an increase of coliform counts in feces. Prebiotic supplements are believed to decrease diarrhea and positively affect some parameters of the immune system. In calves, these supplements have shown some promising effects on intestinal microbial populations but there is limited information about effects on immunity. The main objectives of this study were to evaluate effects of a prebiotic supplement containing fermentation products of lactic acid bacteria on the mucosal immune system by measuring fecal and salivary IgA and to evaluate calf health and growth performance. In this trial 40 Holstein calves were randomly assigned to receive milk replacer with a prebiotic supplement (20 g/day Prebio Support™; Meiji Feed Co., Ltd. Tokyo, Japan) or the same milk replacer with no prebiotic (control). Fecal and salivary IgA, calf health, plasma IgG, and lymphocyte counts were not affected by treatment. Lactobacilli count in feces was higher (P = 0.05) and Bifidobacteria tended to be higher (P = 0.07) in calves fed prebiotic. Prebiotic supplement increased beneficial bacteria in calves, but did not decrease overall incidence of diarrhea in this trial. Calves in this study were all affected by cryptosporidiosis and some were treated with antibiotics, so it is possible that this limited some of the effects of the prebiotic product. Fecal IgA seemed to be a good measure of mucosal immunity, and more studies are needed to develop methods to measure this type of immunity in calves.

Quantitative assessment of macrophages in the muscularis externa of mouse intestines

Quantification of intestinal cells is challenging for several reasons: The cell densities vary throughout the intestines and may be age dependent. Some cell types are ramified and/or can change shape and size. Additionally, immunolabeling is needed for the correct identification of cell type. Immunolabeling is dependent on both up- and down-regulation of the antigen being labeled as well as on the primary and secondary antibodies, the fixation, and the enhancement procedures. Here, we provide a detailed description of immunolabeling of CD169(+) cells and major histocompatibility class II antigen (MHCII(+) ) cells and the subsequent quantification of these cells using design-based stereology in the intestinal muscularis externa. We used young (5-weeks-old) and adult (10-weeks-old) mice. Cell densities were higher in jejunum-ileum, when compared with colon. In jejunum/ileum, the cell densities increased in oral-anal direction in adults, whereas the densities were highest in the midpart in young animals. In colon, the cell densities decreased in oral-anal direction in both groups of animals. Except for the density of MHCII(+) cells in colon, the cell densities were highest in young animals. Densities of CD169(+) and MHCII(+) cells did not differ, except in the colon of young animals where the CD169(+) density was almost twice as high as the MHCII(+) density. CD169 and MHCII antigens seem to be expressed simultaneously by the same cell in jejunum/ileum. We conclude that cell densities depend on both the age of the mouse and on the location in the intestines.

Health-beneficial effects of probiotics: Its mode of action

It is now widely recognized that probiotics have health-beneficial effects on humans and animals. Probiotics should survive in the intestinal tract to exert beneficial effects on the host's health. To keep a sufficient level of probiotic bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, a shorter interval between doses may be required. Although adherence to the intestinal epithelial cell and mucus is not a universal property of probiotics, high ability to adhere to the intestinal surface might strongly interfere with infection of pathogenic bacteria and regulate the immune system. The administration of probiotic Lactobacillus stimulated indigenous Lactobacilli and the production of short-chain fatty acids. This alteration of the intestinal environment should contribute to maintain the host's health. The immunomodulatory effects of probiotics are related to important parts of their beneficial effects. Probiotics may modulate the intestinal immune response through the stimulation of certain cytokine and IgA secretion in intestinal mucosa. The health-beneficial effects, in particular the immunomodulation effect, of probiotics depend on the strain used. Differences in indigenous intestinal microflora significantly alter the magnitude of the effects of a probiotic. Specific probiotic strains suitable for each animal species and their life stage as well as each individual should be found.

Effect of apple intake on fecal microbiota and metabolites in humans

The effects of apple intake on the fecal flora, water content, pH, and metabolic activities in eight healthy volunteers and the utilization of apple pectin in vitro were investigated. Although several isolates of Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, and the Bacteroides fragilis group utilized apple pectin, most isolates of Escherichia coli, Collinsela aerofaciense, Eubacterium limosum, and Clostridium perfringens could not. When fecal samples from healthy adults were incubated in liquid broth with apple pectin present or absent, the numbers of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus in the former were higher than those in the later. After the intake of apples (2 apples a day for 2 weeks) by eight healthy adult humans, the number of bifidobacteria in feces increased (p < 0.05 on day 7 and p < 0.01 on day 14 of the intake period), and the numbers of Lactobacillus and Streptococcus including Enterococcus tended to increase. However, lecithinase-positive clostridia, including C. perfringens, decreased (p < 0.05), and Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas tended to decrease. Moreover, the concentrations of fecal acetic acid tended to increase on apple intake. The fecal ammonia concentration showed a tendency to reduce and fecal sulfide decreased (p < 0.05) on apple intake. These findings indicate that apple consumption is related to an improved intestinal environment, and apple pectin is one of the effective apple components improving the fecal environment.

Meta-analysis: Lactobacillus containing quadruple therapy versus standard triple first-line therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication

BACKGROUND

Recent evidence showed that Lactobacilli could exert an inhibitory effect on Helicobacter pylori both in vitro and in vivo models. To systematically evaluate whether adding Lactobacilli to H. pylori eradication regimens could improve eradication rates and reduce side effects during anti-H. pylori treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eligible articles were identified by searches of electronic databases. We included all randomized trials comparing Lactobacilli supplementation to placebo or no treatment during anti-H. pylori regimens. Statistical analysis was performed with Review Manager 5.0.10. Subanalysis analysis was also performed.

RESULTS

We identified eight randomized trials (n = 1372). Pooled H. pylori eradication rates were 82.26% (95% CI = 78.01-86.51%) and 76.97% (95% CI = 73.11-80.83%) for patients with or without Lactobacilli by intention-to-treat analysis, respectively, the odds ratio (OR) was 1.78 (95% CI = 1.21-2.62). The occurrence of total side effects had no significant difference and were 30.84% (95% CI = 24.82-36.86%) and 42.24% (95% CI = 35.89%-48.59%) for two groups, the summary OR was 0.49 (95% CI = 0.24-1.02); However, Lactobacilli supplementation group had lower occurrence of diarrhoea, bloating and taste disturbance.

CONCLUSIONS

Our review suggests that supplementation with Lactobacilli could be effective in increasing eradication rates of anti-H. pylori therapy for first-treated patients. Furthermore, Lactobacilli showed a positive impact on some H. pylori therapy-related side effects.

Competition for proline between indigenous Escherichia coli and E. coli O157:H7 in gnotobiotic mice associated with infant intestinal microbiota and its contribution to the colonization resistance against E. coli O157:H7

Previously, we produced two groups of gnotobiotic mice, GB-3 and GB-4, which showed different responses to Escherichia coli O157:H7 challenge. E. coli O157:H7 was eliminated from GB-3, whereas GB-4 mice became carriers. It has been reported that the lag time of E. coli O157:H7 growth in 50% GB-3 caecal suspension was extended when compared to GB-4 caecal suspension. In this study, competition for nutrients between intestinal microbiota of GB-3 and GB-4 mice and E. coli O157:H7 was examined. Amino acid concentrations in the caecal contents of GB-3 and GB-4 differed, especially the concentration of proline. The supplementation of proline into GB-3 caecal suspension decreased the lag time of E. coli O157:H7 growth in vitro. When E. coli O157:H7 was cultured with each of the strains used to produce GB-3 mice in vitro, 2 strains of E. coli (proline consumers) out of 5 enterobacteriaceae strains strongly suppressed E. coli O157:H7 growth and the suppression was attenuated by the addition of proline into the medium. These results indicate that competition for proline with indigenous E. coli affected the growth of E. coli O157:H7 in vivo and may contribute to E. coli O157:H7 elimination from the intestine.

Safety evaluation of Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum G4 as assessed in BALB/c mice

AIMS

To assess the safety of Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum G4 in BALB/c mice that involves examination of bacterial translocation, changes in the internal organs and histology of the intestinal lining.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Forty male BALB/c mice were randomly assigned into five groups (n = 8). Three groups were orally fed with 50 microl of three different concentrations of B. pseudocatenulatum G4 (2 x 10(4), 1 x 10(8) and 1 x 10(11) CFU day(-1)) for 4 weeks. One group was orally administered with 50 microl of 1 x 10(8) CFU B. longum BB536 per day for 4 weeks and last group was used as a nonbifidobacterial treatment control, which received 50 microl of skim milk. The administered strains did not affect the general health of mice and incapable of carrying out translocation to blood or liver. There were no significant differences in the internal organ (liver, heart, kidney and spleen) indices, serum enzymes of liver (aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphate, alanine aminotransferase) and kidney (urea and creatinine) and histology (villi height, crypts height, mucosa thickness and epithelial cell height) of caecum, ileum and colon.

CONCLUSION

Administration of high dose of up to 1 x 10(11) CFU B. pseudocatenulatum G4 per day to mice did not show any health threatening symptoms.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum G4 is none pathogenic to BALB/c mice and could be safe probiotic for human consumption.

Putting microbes to work: Dairy fermentation, cell factories and bioactive peptides. Part I: Overview

A variety of milk-derived biologically active peptides have been shown to exert both functional and physiological roles in vitro and in vivo, and because of this are of particular interest for food science and nutrition applications. Biological activities associated with such peptides include immunomodulatory, antibacterial, anti-hypertensive and opioid-like properties. Milk proteins are recognized as a primary source of bioactive peptides, which can be encrypted within the amino acid sequence of dairy proteins, requiring proteolysis for release and activation. Fermentation of milk proteins using the proteolytic systems of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) is an attractive approach for generation of functional foods enriched in bioactive peptides given the low cost and positive nutritional image associated with fermented milk drinks and yoghurt. In this review, we discuss the exploitation of such fermentation towards the development of functional foods conferring specific health benefits to the consumer beyond basic nutrition. In particular, in Part I, we focus on the release of encrypted bioactive peptides from a range of food protein sources, as well as the use of LAB as cell factories for the de novo generation of bioactivities.

Perioperative synbiotic treatment to prevent postoperative infectious complications in biliary cancer surgery: a randomized controlled trial

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Use of synbiotics has been reported to benefit human health, but clinical value in surgical patients remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of perioperative oral administration of synbiotics upon intestinal barrier function, immune responses, systemic inflammatory responses, microflora, and surgical outcome in patients undergoing high-risk hepatobiliary resection.

METHODS

Patients with biliary cancer involving the hepatic hilus (n = 101) were randomized before hepatectomy, into a group receiving postoperative enteral feeding with synbiotics (group A); or another receiving preoperative plus postoperative synbiotics (group B). Lactulose-mannitol (L/M) ratio, serum diamine oxidase (DAO) activity, natural killer (NK) cell activity, interleukin-6 (IL-6), fecal microflora, and fecal organic acid concentrations were determined before and after hepatectomy. Postoperative infectious complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Of 101 patients, 81 completed the trial. Preoperative and postoperative changes in L/M ratio and DAO activity were similar between groups. Preoperatively in group B, NK activity, and lymphocyte counts increased, while IL-6 decreased significantly (P < 0.05). Postoperative serum IL-6, white blood cell counts, and C-reactive protein in group B were significantly lower than in group A (P < 0.05). During the preoperative period, numbers of Bifidobacterium colonies cultured from and total organic acid concentrations measured in feces increased significantly in group B (P < 0.05). Postoperative concentrations of total organic acids and acetic acid in feces were significantly higher in group B than in group A (P < 0.05). Incidence of postoperative infectious complications was 30.0% (12 of 40) in group A and 12.1% (5 of 41) in group B (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative oral administration of synbiotics can enhance immune responses, attenuate systemic postoperative inflammatory responses, and improve intestinal microbial environment. These beneficial effects likely reduce postoperative infectious complications after hepatobiliary resection for biliary tract cancer.

Challenges in the addition of probiotic cultures to foods

Probiotic cultures are increasingly being added to foods in order to develop products with health-promoting properties. Although the literature is abundant on the beneficial effects of bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus acidophilus on health, little information is available on the challenges industry faces in adding these probiotic cultures to food products. The aim of this article is to examine seven issues that should be addressed when developing functional foods: 1) type or form of probiotic that should be used; 2) addition level required to have a beneficial effect; 3) toxicity; 4) effect of the processing steps on viability; 5) determination, in the product, of the cell populations added; 6) stability during storage; 7) changes in sensory properties of the foods.

Effects of a specially designed fermented milk product containing probiotic Lactobacillus casei DN-114 001 and the eradication of H. pylori in children: a prospective randomized double-blind study

GOALS

To determine the efficacy of triple therapy supplemented with a specially designed fermented milk product containing specific probiotic Lactobacillus casei (L. casei) DN-114 001 strain on Helicobacter pylori eradication in children.

BACKGROUND

Lactobacillus species possess in vitro activity against H. pylori. There are no consistent data on the impact of eradication therapy supplemented with probiotics on H. pylori cure rates in childhood in vivo.

STUDY

Multicenter, prospective, randomized, double-blind controlled study. Eighty-six symptomatic H. pylori-positive children were randomized either to receive the control treatment of omeprazole, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin (OAC) for 7 days or the test treatment of omeprazole, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin for 7 days supplemented with fermented milk (Actimel) containing L. casei DN-114 001 (OAC-LC), for 14 days. H. pylori status was assessed at 4 weeks following therapy using two noninvasive tests.

RESULTS

Intention-to-treat (ITT) based eradication rates for the OAC-LC group were 84.6% (95% CI, 71.2%-95.5%), and 91.6% (95% CI, 76.9%-98.2%) by per-protocol (PP) analysis. Eradication in the OAC group was 57.5% (95% CI, 42.2%-72.3%) in the ITT set and 61.3% (95% CI, 44.4%-75.0%) in the PP group. Eradication success was higher in the OAC-LC group compared with the OAC group in both ITT (P=0.0045) and PP analysis (P=0.0019). Primary resistance for clarithromycin could be determined in 21.2%. Side effects were infrequent. Drug compliance was good throughout the study.

CONCLUSION

Supplementation with fermented milk, containing live special probiotic L. casei DN-114 001, confers an enhanced therapeutic benefit on H. pylori eradication in children with gastritis on triple therapy.

Synbiotics reduce postoperative infectious complications: a randomized controlled trial in biliary cancer patients undergoing hepatectomy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The clinical value of synbiotics in surgical patients remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of synbiotics on intestinal integrity and microflora, as well as on surgical outcome, in patients undergoing high-risk hepatectomy.

METHODS

Fifty-four patients with biliary cancer were randomly allocated to two groups before hepatectomy. One group received postoperative enteral feeding that included synbiotics; the other received enteral feeding only. Lactulose/mannitol (L/M) ratio, serum diamine oxidase (DAO) activity, and fecal microflora and organic acid concentrations were determined. Postoperative infectious complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Of the 54 patients, 44 completed the trial (21 receiving synbiotics and 23 others as controls). Postoperative changes in L/M ratios and serum DAO activities were identical between the two groups. Numbers of beneficial bacteria increased in the synbiotics group after surgery but decreased in controls. Numbers of harmful microorganisms decreased in the synbiotics group but increased in controls. Total organic acid concentrations increased in the synbiotics group but decreased in controls. Incidence of infectious complications was 19% (4/21) in the synbiotics group and 52% (12/23) in controls (P<0.05). All study patients tolerated surgery (mortality 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Synbiotics, combined with early enteral nutrition, can reduce postoperative infections. This beneficial effect presumably involves correction of an intestinal microbial imbalance induced by surgical stress.