Probiotics in Medicine: A Long Debate

The combined use of B vitamins and probiotics promotes B vitamin absorption and increases Akkermansia abundance

B vitamins and probiotics are commonly used dietary supplements with well-documented health benefits. However, their potential interactions remain poorly understood. This study aims to explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of the combined use of B vitamins and probiotics by liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry analysis, pharmacokinetic modeling, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. By intragastric administration of seven B vitamins and three Lactobacillus strains to healthy rats (n = 8 per group), we found that probiotics significantly promoted the absorption (by approximately 14.5% to 71.2%) of vitamins B1, B3, B5, and B12. By conducting in vitro experiments (n = 3 per group) and a pseudo-germ-free rat model-based pharmacokinetic study (n = 6 per group), we confirmed that probiotics primarily enhanced the B vitamin absorption through gut microbiota-mediated mechanisms, rather than by directly producing B vitamins. Furthermore, we evaluated the effects of B vitamins and probiotics on the colon and gut microbiota by treating the pseudo-germ-free rats with blank solution, B vitamins, probiotics, and B vitamins + probiotics (n = 5 per group), respectively. Histopathological examination showed that the combination of B vitamins and probiotics synergistically alleviated the rat colon damage. High-throughput genetic sequencing also revealed the synergistic effect of B vitamins and probiotics in modulating the gut microbiota, particularly increasing the abundance of Verrucomicrobia and Akkermansia. In summary, the combined administration of B vitamins and probiotics may have a higher efficacy than using them alone.

Effect of probiotic supplementation on the gut microbiota in very preterm infants: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

There is increasing evidence that probiotic supplementation in very preterm infants decreases the risk of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), sepsis and mortality. The underlying mechanisms, including effects on the gut microbiota, are largely unknown. We aimed to systematically review the available literature on the effects of probiotic supplementation in very preterm infants on gut microbiota development.

DESIGN

A systematic review in Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL and Web of Science.

SETTING

Neonatal intensive care unit.

PATIENTS

Premature infants.

INTERVENTION

Probiotic supplementation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Gut microbiota.

RESULTS

A total of 1046 articles were screened, of which 29 were included. There was a large heterogeneity in study design, dose and type of probiotic strains, timepoints of sample collection and analysing techniques. Bifidobacteria and lactobacilli were the most used probiotic strains. The effects of probiotics on alpha diversity were conflicting; however, beta diversity was significantly different between probiotic-supplemented infants and controls in the vast majority of studies. In most studies, probiotic supplementation led to increased relative abundance of the supplemented strains and decreased abundance of genera such as Clostridium, Streptococcus, Klebsiella and Escherichia.

CONCLUSIONS

Probiotic supplementation to preterm infants seems to increase the relative abundance of the supplemented strains with a concurrent decrease of potentially pathogenic species. These probiotic-induced microbial alterations may contribute to the decreased risk of health complications such as NEC. Future trials, including omics technologies to analyse both microbiota composition and function linked to health outcomes, are warranted to identify the optimal mixture and dosing of probiotic strains.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42023385204.

Probiotic Potential and Application of Indigenous Non-Starter Lactic Acid Bacteria in Ripened Short-Aged Cheese

There are massive sources of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in traditional dairy products. Some of these indigenous strains could be novel probiotics with applications in human health and supply the growing needs of the probiotic industry. In this work, were analyzed the probiotic and technological properties of three Lactobacilli strains isolated from traditional Brazilian cheeses. In vitro tests showed that the three strains are safe and have probiotic features. They presented antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria, auto-aggregation values around 60%, high biofilm formation properties, and a survivor of more than 65% to simulated acid conditions and more than 100% to bile salts. The three strains were used as adjunct cultures separately in a pilot-scale production of Prato cheese. After 45 days of ripening, the lactobacilli counts in the cheeses were close to 8 Log CFU/g, and was observed a reduction in the lactococci counts (around -3 Log CFU/g) in a strain-dependent manner. Cheese primary and secondary proteolysis were unaffected by the probiotic candidates during the ripening, and the strains showed no lipolytic effect, as no changes in the fatty acid profile of cheeses were observed. Thus, our findings suggest that the three strains evaluated have probiotic properties and have potential as adjunct non-starter lactic acid bacteria (NSLAB) to improve the quality and functionality of short-aged cheeses.

Therapeutic benefit of probiotic in alcohol dependence syndrome: Evidence from a tertiary care centre of India

Probiotic adjuvant has promising effects in treating alcohol induced hepatitis, depression, and anxiety. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of adjuvant probiotic use in improving the liver functions, anxiety, and depression among patients with alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS) in a tertiary care hospital in Andhra Pradesh, India. In this prospective observational design, ADS patients with or without probiotics were followed-up at one and three months after initiation of treatment. They were assessed for liver function test (LFT), anxiety by HAM-A and depression by HAM-D scale. A total of 120 patients complied with the treatment, 60 in each group, mean age being 35.0 years (SD 9.5 years). The baseline socio-demographic and clinical characteristics were similar in both the groups. Significant reduction was noted in the probiotic group for total bilirubin (Mean difference (MD) 0.18; 95 % CI: 0.04, 0.31), AST (MD 5.0; 95 % CI: 0.5, 9.5), and ALT (MD 8.6; 95 % CI: 1.4, 15.7) at one month after treatment. Both the groups showed a considerable change in anxiety and depression scores (HAM-A and HAM-D) till three months. At three months of treatment initiation, proportional improvement of severity grade to mild form in anxiety was more in the probiotic group (35 %) than the non-probiotic group (13.3 %) (p < 0.05). Hence, probiotic supplementation can significantly reduce the hepatic enzymes and depression severity in patients with alcohol dependence syndrome but demands additional robust evidence on the causal inference.

The Therapeutic Effects of Probiotic on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Lupus Mice Models: A Systematic Review

Increasing evidence suggests the beneficial immunomodulatory effects of probiotics can reduce inflammation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, there is no summary of the existing evidence available. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic effects of probiotics on SLE in a lupus mouse model by examining various markers, including inflammatory cytokines, Treg cells, disease activity, and gut microbiota. A systematic search was conducted using three databases (Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus) to identify animal studies that reported the therapeutic benefits of probiotics against SLE. Data extracted from the selected articles were qualitatively synthesized. The SYRCLE risk of bias tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias. Out of a total of 3205 articles, 12 met the inclusion criteria. Probiotic strains, quantities, and routes of administration varied among the studies. The treatment ranged from 8 to 47 weeks. Probiotic strains such as L. fermentum CECT5716, L. casei B255, L. reuteri DSM 17509, L. plantarum LP299v, and L. acidophilus can significantly reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-12, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-17, and IFN-γ) levels while increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10 and Treg cells. Probiotics also delay the production of autoantibodies, thus prolonging the remission period, decreasing flare frequency, and delaying disease progression. Furthermore, probiotic administration prevents gut dysbiosis, increases intestinal stability, and prevents pathogen colonization. In conclusion, probiotics can be considered a new alternative therapeutic approach for the management of SLE. Further clinical studies are required to investigate and validate the safety and effectiveness of probiotics in humans.

Exploring the Gut Microbiome's Role in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Insights and Interventions

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory condition of the intestine that significantly impairs quality of life and imposes a heavy burden on healthcare systems globally. While the exact etiology of IBD is unclear, it is influenced by genetic, environmental, immunological, and microbial factors. Recent advances highlight the gut microbiome's pivotal role in IBD pathogenesis. The microbial dysbiosis characteristic of IBD, marked by a decline in beneficial bacteria and an increase in pathogenic microbes, suggests a profound connection between microbial imbalance and disease mechanisms. This review explores diagnostic approaches to IBD that integrate clinical assessment with advanced microbiological analyses, highlighting the potential of microbiome profiling as a non-invasive diagnostic tool. In addition, it evaluates conventional and emerging treatments and discusses microbiome-targeted intervention prospects, such as probiotics, symbiotics, and faecal microbiota transplantation. The necessity for future research to establish their efficacy and safety is emphasised.

Effects of Combined Live Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, and Bacillus Cereus Tablets on the Structure and Function of the Intestinal Flora in Rabbits Undergoing Hepatic Artery Infusion Chemotherapy

Few studies have explored the biological mechanism by which probiotics alleviate adverse reactions to chemotherapy drugs after local hepatic chemotherapy perfusion by regulating the intestinal flora. This study investigates the effects of Combined Live Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, and Bacillus Cereus Tablets on the intestinal microbial structure and intestinal barrier function, as well as the potential mechanism in rabbits after local hepatic chemotherapy infusion. Eighteen New Zealand White rabbits were randomly divided into a control group, a hepatic local chemotherapy perfusion group, and a hepatic local chemotherapy perfusion + Combined Live Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, and Bacillus Cereus Tablets group to assess the effects of Combined Live Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, and Bacillus Cereus Tablets on the adverse reactions. The administration of Combined Live Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, and Bacillus Cereus Tablets alleviated the intestinal flora disorder caused by local hepatic perfusion chemotherapy, promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria, and inhibited the growth of harmful bacteria. The Combined Live Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, and Bacillus Cereus Tablets also reduced the levels of serum pro-inflammatory cytokines and liver injury factors induced by local hepatic perfusion chemotherapy. Our findings indicate that Combined Live Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, and Bacillus Cereus Tablets can ameliorate the toxicity and side effects of chemotherapy by regulating intestinal flora, blocking pro-inflammatory cytokines, reducing liver injury factors, and repairing the intestinal barrier. Probiotics may be used as a potential alternative therapeutic strategy to prevent the adverse reactions caused by chemotherapy with local hepatic perfusion.

Gut microbiota and childhood malnutrition: Understanding the link and exploring therapeutic interventions

Childhood malnutrition is a metabolic condition that affects the physical and mental well-being of children and leads to resultant disorders in maturity. The development of childhood malnutrition is influenced by a number of physiological and environmental factors including metabolic stress, infections, diet, genetic variables, and gut microbiota. The imbalanced gut microbiota is one of the main environmental risk factors that significantly influence host physiology and childhood malnutrition progression. In this review, we have evaluated the gut microbiota association with undernutrition and overnutrition in children, and then the quantitative and qualitative significance of gut dysbiosis in order to reveal the impact of gut microbiota modification using probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and engineering biology methods as new therapeutic challenges in the management of disturbed energy homeostasis. Understanding the host-microbiota interaction and the remote regulation of other organs and pathways by gut microbiota can improve the effectiveness of new therapeutic approaches and mitigate the negative consequences of childhood malnutrition.

Probiotic Mixture Ameliorates a Diet-Induced MASLD/MASH Murine Model through the Regulation of Hepatic Lipid Metabolism and the Gut Microbiome

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a prevalent metabolic disease that has no effective treatment. Our proprietary probiotic mixture, Prohep, has been proven in a previous study to be helpful in reducing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in vivo. However, its prospective benefits on the treatment of other liver diseases such as MASLD, which is one of the major risk factors in the development of HCC, are unclear. To investigate the potential of Prohep in modulating the development and progression of MASLD, we first explored the effect of Prohep supplementation via voluntary intake in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced MASLD/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) murine model. Our results indicated that Prohep alleviated HFD-induced liver steatosis and reduced excessive hepatic lipid accumulation and improved the plasma lipid profile when compared with HFD-fed control mice through suppressing hepatic de novo lipogenesis and cholesterol biosynthesis gene expressions. In addition, Prohep was able to modulate the gut microbiome, modify the bile acid (BA) profile, and elevate fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels. Next, in a prolonged HFD-feeding MASLD/MASH model, we observed the effectiveness of Prohep in preventing the transition from MASLD to MASH via amelioration in hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Taken together, Prohep could ameliorate HFD-induced MASLD and control the MASLD-to-MASH progression in mice. Our findings provide distinctive insights into the development of novel microbial therapy for the management of MASLD and MASH.

A comprehensive review on the utilization of probiotics in aquaculture towards sustainable shrimp farming

Probiotics in shrimp aquaculture have gained considerable attention as a potential solution to enhance production efficiency, disease management, and overall sustainability. Probiotics, beneficial microorganisms, have shown promising effects when administered to shrimp as dietary supplements or water additives. Their inclusion has been linked to improved gut health, nutrient absorption, and disease resistance in shrimp. Probiotics also play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced microbial community within the shrimp pond environment, enhancing water quality and reducing pathogen prevalence. This article briefly summarizes the many ways that probiotics are used in shrimp farming and the advantages that come with them. Despite the promising results, challenges such as strain selection, dosage optimization, and environmental conditions are carefully addressed for successful probiotic integration in shrimp aquaculture. The potential of probiotics as a sustainable and ecologically friendly method of promoting shrimp development and health while advancing environmentally friendly shrimp farming techniques is highlighted in this analysis. Further research is required to fully exploit probiotics' benefits and develop practical guidelines for their effective implementation in shrimp aquaculture.

Effects of probiotic supplementation on chronic inflammatory process modulation in colorectal carcinogenesis

The current study investigated the potential effects of probiotic supplementation on colorectal carcinogenesis chemically induced with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) and treated with 5-fluorouracil (5FU)-based chemotherapy in mice. Animals were randomly allocated in five different groups: Control: which not receive any treatment throughout the experimental course; Colitis model group (DMH): treated with DMH; DMH+ 5FU: animals received I.P. (intraperitoneal) dose of chemotherapy on a weekly basis; DMH+PROB: animals received daily administrations (via gavage) of probiotics (Lactobacillus: acidophilus and paracasei, Bifidobacterium lactis and bifidum); and DMH+ PROB+ 5FU: animals received the same treatment as the previous groups. After ten-week treatment, mice's large intestine was collected and subjected to colon length, histopathological, periodic acid-schiff (PAS) staining and immunohistochemistry (TLR2, MyD88, NF-κB, IL-6, TLR4, TRIF, IRF-3, IFN-γ, Ki-67, KRAS, p53, IL-10, and TGF-β) analyzes. Variance (ANOVA) and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for statistical analysis, at significance level p 0.05. Probiotics' supplementation has increased the production of Ki-67 cell-proliferation marker, reduced body weight, and colon shortening, as well as modulated the chronic inflammatory process in colorectal carcinogenesis by inhibiting NF-κB expression and mitigating mucin depletion. Thus, these findings lay a basis for guide future studies focused on probiotics' action mechanisms in tumor microenvironment which might have implications in clinical practice.

The inhibitory effects of live and UV-killed Akkermansia muciniphila and its derivatives on cytotoxicity and inflammatory response induced by Clostridioides difficile RT001 in vitro

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is the leading cause of healthcare-acquired infections worldwide. Probiotics are widely recommended to prevent CDI and its recurrences. Akkermansia muciniphila, as a therapeutic symbiont colonizing the intestinal mucosal layer, is considered to be a promising next-generation probiotic. In this work, we assessed the inhibitory effects of A. muciniphila MucT and its derivatives on cytotoxicity and inflammatory response induced by C. difficile RT001 in Caco-2 cells. The results obtained from SEM revealed that the morphology of UV-killed A. muciniphila remained unchanged after UV inactivation. TEM analysis showed that A. muciniphila-isolated extracellular vesicles (EVs) were spherical and ranged from 50 to 200 nm in size. Toxigenic supernatant (Tox-S) of C. difficile RT001 (500 μg/ml) significantly (P <0.01) reduced the cell viability of Caco-2 cells. Caco-2 cells treated with live (MOI 10), UV-killed (MOI 10), cell-free supernatant (CFS, 106 cfu/ml), and EVs (20 μg/ml) of A. muciniphila exhibited over 90% viability in comparison to untreated control. The neutralized CFS preparation using A. muciniphila and its derivatives could notably reduce the expression level of inflammatory markers. Additionally, A. muciniphila and its derivatives modulated the production of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10 in Tox-S stimulated Caco-2 cells. We demonstrated that A. muciniphila and its derivatives can modulate changes in the gut barrier-related genes and inflammatory response caused by C. difficile Tox-S in Caco-2 cells.

A Narrative Review on the Advance of Probiotics to Metabiotics

Recently, the term metabiotics has emerged as a new concept of probiotics. This concept entails combining existing probiotic components with metabolic by-products improve specific physiological functionalities. Representative ingredients of these metabiotics include short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bacteriocins, polysaccharides, and peptides. The new concept is highly regarded as it complements the side effects of existing probiotics and is safe and easy to administer. Known health functions of metabiotics are mainly immune regulation, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and brain-neurological health. Research has been actively conducted on the health benefits related to the composition of intestinal microorganisms. Among them, the focus has been on brain neurological health, which requires extensive research. This study showed that neurological disorders, such as depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease, can be treated and prevented according to the gut-brain axis theory by changing the intestinal microflora. In addition, various studies are being conducted on the immunomodulatory and anticancer effects of substances related to metabiotics of the microbiome. In particular, its efficacy is expected to be confirmed through human studies on various cancers. Therefore, developing various health functional effects of the next-generation probiotics such as metabiotics to prevent or treatment of various diseases is anticipated.

Past, present, and future of microbiome-based therapies

Technological advances in studying the human microbiome in depth have enabled the identification of microbial signatures associated with health and disease. This confirms the crucial role of microbiota in maintaining homeostasis and the host health status. Nowadays, there are several ways to modulate the microbiota composition to effectively improve host health; therefore, the development of therapeutic treatments based on the gut microbiota is experiencing rapid growth. In this review, we summarize the influence of the gut microbiota on the development of infectious disease and cancer, which are two of the main targets of microbiome-based therapies currently being developed. We analyze the two-way interaction between the gut microbiota and traditional drugs in order to emphasize the influence of gut microbial composition on drug effectivity and treatment response. We explore the different strategies currently available for modulating this ecosystem to our benefit, ranging from 1st generation intervention strategies to more complex 2nd generation microbiome-based therapies and their regulatory framework. Lastly, we finish with a quick overview of what we believe is the future of these strategies, that is 3rd generation microbiome-based therapies developed with the use of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms.

Exploring the Influence of Gut-Brain Axis Modulation on Cognitive Health: A Comprehensive Review of Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Symbiotics

Recent research exploring the relationship between the gut and the brain suggests that the condition of the gut microbiota can influence cognitive health. A well-balanced gut microbiota may help reduce inflammation, which is linked to neurodegenerative conditions. Prebiotics, probiotics, and symbiotics are nutritional supplements and functional food components associated with gastrointestinal well-being. The bidirectional communication of the gut-brain axis is essential for maintaining homeostasis, with pre-, pro-, and symbiotics potentially affecting various cognitive functions such as attention, perception, and memory. Numerous studies have consistently shown that incorporating pre-, pro-, and symbiotics into a healthy diet can lead to improvements in cognitive functions and mood. Maintaining a healthy gut microbiota can support optimal cognitive function, which is crucial for disease prevention in our fast-paced, Westernized society. Our results indicate cognitive benefits in healthy older individuals with probiotic supplementation but not in healthy older individuals who have good and adequate levels of physical activity. Additionally, it appears that there are cognitive benefits in patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease, while mixed results seem to arise in younger and healthier individuals. However, it is important to acknowledge that individual responses may vary, and the use of these dietary supplements should be tailored to each individual's unique health circumstances and needs.

The Efficacy of Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus Supplementation in Managing Body Weight and Blood Lipids of People with Overweight: A Randomized Pilot Trial

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus (L. bulgaricus) in improving body weight, obesity-related outcomes, and lipid profiles of overweight people. Thirty-six overweight participants were randomly assigned to either a probiotic or a placebo group. A placebo powder or L. bulgaricus powder (containing 1 × 108 colony-forming unit (CFU) of the probiotic) was administered daily for 12 weeks. Body composition was determined, and blood tests were performed before and after the intervention. L. bulgaricus supplementation under the present condition did not affect the body weight, fat percentage, or body mass index (BMI) of the participants, while it resulted in a notable decrease in blood triglyceride (TG) levels, which corresponded to a lowering of the TG proportion in the composition of large VLDL (L-XXL sized fractions) and HDL (M and L fractions) in the probiotic-treated group. These results suggest that L. bulgaricus supplementation under the current conditions may not be helpful for losing weight, but it has the potential to decrease blood TG levels by modulating TG accumulation in or transport by VLDL/HDL in obese patients. L. bulgaricus supplements may have health-promoting properties in preventing TG-related diseases in overweight people.

Anticancer Properties of Saccharomyces boulardii Metabolite Against Colon Cancer Cells

Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii has been used as a probiotic yeast in the medical and food industries. Colon cancers have been known as the third most common cancer type worldwide. Nowadays, cell-free extract and metabolites of probiotics have been employed for the treatment or prevention of different cancer diseases. This study investigates the anticancer properties of S. boulardii metabolites against human colon carcinoma. We evaluated cytotoxicity, apoptosis induction, and suppression of survivin, IL-8, and NFƙB gene expression effects of SBM against caco-2 cells after 24 and 48 h. IC50 concentrations of SBM were measured at 815 and 1411 µg/mL for 24 and 48 h treatments, respectively. The total proportion of apoptotic caco-2 cells treated with SBM after 24 and 48 h were calculated at 62.23 and 88.7%, respectively. Also, relative expression of survivin, IL-8, and NFƙB genes were significantly suppressed in caco-2 cells treated with SBM after 24 and 48 h. In conclusion, we found that SBM induced apoptosis, inhibited the growth rate, and suppressed the expression of the survivin, IL-8, and NFƙB genes in human colorectal cancer cells and it can be considered as a perspective supplement or drug for the treatment or prevention of colon cancer in humans.

Probiotics: truths and illusions

The Article Abstract is not available.  

Salmonellosis: An Overview of Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, and Innovative Approaches to Mitigate the Antimicrobial Resistant Infections

Salmonella is a major foodborne pathogen and a leading cause of gastroenteritis in humans and animals. Salmonella is highly pathogenic and encompasses more than 2600 characterized serovars. The transmission of Salmonella to humans occurs through the farm-to-fork continuum and is commonly linked to the consumption of animal-derived food products. Among these sources, poultry and poultry products are primary contributors, followed by beef, pork, fish, and non-animal-derived food such as fruits and vegetables. While antibiotics constitute the primary treatment for salmonellosis, the emergence of antibiotic resistance and the rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella strains have highlighted the urgency of developing antibiotic alternatives. Effective infection management necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the pathogen's epidemiology and transmission dynamics. Therefore, this comprehensive review focuses on the epidemiology, sources of infection, risk factors, transmission dynamics, and the host range of Salmonella serotypes. This review also investigates the disease characteristics observed in both humans and animals, antibiotic resistance, pathogenesis, and potential strategies for treatment and control of salmonellosis, emphasizing the most recent antibiotic-alternative approaches for infection control.

Probiotics and their Beneficial Health Effects

Probiotics are living microorganisms that are present in cultured milk and fermented food. Fermented foods are a rich source for the isolation of probiotics. They are known as good bacteria. They have various beneficial effects on human health including antihypertensive effects, antihypercholesterolemic effects, prevention of bowel disease, and improving the immune system. Microorganisms including bacteria, yeast, and mold are used as probiotics but the major microorganisms that are used as probiotics are bacteria from the genus Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Streptococcus, and Bifidobacterium. Probiotics are beneficial in the prevention of harmful effects. Recently, the use of probiotics for the treatment of various oral and skin diseases has also gained significant attention. Clinical studies indicate that the usage of probiotics can alter gut microbiota composition and provoke immune modulation in a host. Due to their various health benefits, probiotics are attaining more interest as a substitute for antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs leading to the growth of the probiotic market.

Probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics in health and disease

The gut microbiota and its homeostasis play a crucial role in human health. However, for some diseases related to the gut microbiota, current traditional medicines can only relieve symptoms, and it is difficult to solve the root causes or even cause side effects like disturbances in the gut microbiota. Increasing clinical studies and evidences have demonstrated that probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics can prevent and treat various diseases, but currently they can only be used as dietary supplements rather than medicines, which restricts the application of probiotics in the field of medicine. Here, this review analyzes the importance of gut microbiota in human health and the current problems of traditional medicines, and systematically summarizes the effectiveness and mechanisms of probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics in maintaining health and treating diseases based on animal models and clinical trials. And based on current research outcomes and development trends in this field, the challenges and prospects of their clinical application in maintaining health, alleviating and treating diseases are analyzed. It is hoped to promote the application of probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics in disease treatment and open up new frontiers in probiotic research.

Bifidobacteria in Fermented Dairy Foods: A Health Beneficial Outlook

Bifidobacteria, frequently present in the human gastrointestinal tract, play a crucial role in preserving gut health and are mostly recognized as beneficial probiotic microorganisms. They are associated with fermenting complex carbohydrates, resulting in the production of short-chain fatty acids, bioactive peptides, exopolysaccharides, and vitamins, which provide energy and contribute to gut homeostasis. In light of these findings, research in food processing technologies has harnessed probiotic bacteria such as lactobacilli and bifidobacteria for the formulation of a wide range of fermented dairy products, ensuring their maximum survival and contributing to the development of distinctive quality characteristics and therapeutic benefits. Despite the increased interest in probiotic dairy products, introducing bifidobacteria into the dairy food chain has proved to be complicated. However, survival of Bifidobacterium species is conditioned by strain of bacteria used, metabolic interactions with lactic acid bacteria (LAB), fermentation parameters, and the temperature of storage and preservation of the dairy products. Furthermore, fortification of dairy foods and whey beverages with bifidobacteria have ability to change physicochemical and rheological properties beyond economic value of dairy products. In summary, this review underscores the significance of bifidobacteria as probiotics in diverse fermented dairy foods and accentuates their positive impact on human health. By enhancing our comprehension of the beneficial repercussions associated with the consumption of bifidobacteria-rich products, we aim to encourage individuals to embrace these probiotics as a means of promoting holistic health.

An Overview of Chronic Kidney Disease Pathophysiology: The Impact of Gut Dysbiosis and Oral Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a severe condition and a significant public health issue worldwide, carrying the burden of an increased risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. The traditional factors that promote the onset and progression of CKD are cardiometabolic risk factors like hypertension and diabetes, but non-traditional contributors are escalating. Moreover, gut dysbiosis, inflammation, and an impaired immune response are emerging as crucial mechanisms in the disease pathology. The gut microbiome and kidney disease exert a reciprocal influence commonly referred to as "the gut-kidney axis" through the induction of metabolic, immunological, and endocrine alterations. Periodontal diseases are strictly involved in the gut-kidney axis for their impact on the gut microbiota composition and for the metabolic and immunological alterations occurring in and reciprocally affecting both conditions. This review aims to provide an overview of the dynamic biological interconnections between oral health status, gut, and renal pathophysiology, spotlighting the dynamic oral-gut-kidney axis and raising whether periodontal diseases and gut microbiota can be disease modifiers in CKD. By doing so, we try to offer new insights into therapeutic strategies that may enhance the clinical trajectory of CKD patients, ultimately advancing our quest for improved patient outcomes and well-being.

COVID-19 on the spectrum: a scoping review of hygienic standards

The emergence of COVID-19 in Wuhan, China, rapidly escalated into a worldwide public health crisis. Despite numerous clinical treatment endeavors, initial defenses against the virus primarily relied on hygiene practices like mask-wearing, meticulous hand hygiene (using soap or antiseptic solutions), and maintaining social distancing. Even with the subsequent advent of vaccines and the commencement of mass vaccination campaigns, these hygiene measures persistently remain in effect, aiming to curb virus transmission until the achievement of herd immunity. In this scoping review, we delve into the effectiveness of these measures and the diverse transmission pathways, focusing on the intricate interplay within the food network. Furthermore, we explore the virus's pathophysiology, considering its survival on droplets of varying sizes, each endowed with distinct aerodynamic attributes that influence disease dispersion dynamics. While respiratory transmission remains the predominant route, the potential for oral-fecal transmission should not be disregarded, given the protracted presence of viral RNA in patients' feces after the infection period. Addressing concerns about food as a potential viral vector, uncertainties shroud the virus's survivability and potential to contaminate consumers indirectly. Hence, a meticulous and comprehensive hygienic strategy remains paramount in our collective efforts to combat this pandemic.

Probiotic and Safety Evaluation of Twelve Lactic Acid Bacteria as Future Probiotics

The human gut flora is highly diverse. Most lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are widely used as probiotics in human and animal husbandry and have a variety of physiological benefits. This article mainly studied the bacteriostatic ability of LAB against four pathogenic bacteria, gastrointestinal environment tolerance, and adhesion ability to Caco-2 cells. The genome of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum L461 was sequenced and analyzed. The results showed that strains F512, L461, and D469 had the most significant inhibitory effects on Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica B, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes. In addition, strains L461, C502, and P231 showed good tolerance after exposure to simulated gastric fluid for 0-4 h. Strains C502, H781, and L461 showed good tolerance in simulated intestinal fluid. Strains L461 and H781 showed good adhesion to Caco-2 cells. The number of viable bacteria was more than 60. Therefore, we screened L. plantarum L461 from 12 LAB strains through three aspects of evaluation, and conducted whole genome sequencing and analysis. Sequencing results showed that L. plantarum L461 had more defense mechanisms and phage annotation genes than L. plantarum WCFS1. Virulence factor studies showed that L. plantarum L461 has iron absorption system and adhesion-related gene annotation, indicating that L. plantarum L461 has survival advantage in intestinal tract. The predicted results showed that there were eight phages with phage resistance in L. plantarum L461. L. plantarum L461 is sensitive to several antibiotics, notably penicillin and oxacillin. In summary, the results of this study prove that L. plantarum L461 has good prebiotic function and is safe. Therefore, L. plantarum L461 can be safely used as a potential functional probiotic.

Autoimmune diseases and gut microbiota: a bibliometric and visual analysis from 2004 to 2022

Many studies have shown that gut microbiota is closely related to autoimmune diseases (ADs). Studies on gut microbiota and ADs have also increased significantly, but no bibliometric analysis has summarized the association between gut microbiota and ADs. This study aimed to conduct a bibliometric and visual analysis of published studies on gut microbiota and ADs. Based on the Web of Science Core Collection SCI-expanded database, we utilize Excel 2019 and visualization analysis tools VOSviewer and co-occurrence13.2 (COOC13.2) for analysis. A total of 2516 related kinds of literature were included, and the number of papers presented an overall increasing trend. The country/region with the most publications is the USA, the institution is the Harvard Medical School, and the author is Mikael Knip from the USA. Hot research areas include intestinal regulation (such as dysbiosis, short chain fatty acids, and probiotics), multisystem ADs (such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease), and immune-related cells (such as T cells, and dendritic cells). Psoriasis, dysbiosis, autoimmune liver disease, and fecal microbiota transplantation may be the future research direction. Our research results can help researchers grasp the current status of ADs and gut microbiota research and find new research directions in the future.

Can acid produced from probiotic bacteria alter the surface roughness, microhardness, and elemental composition of enamel? An in vitro study

Probiotics are live microorganisms that upon administration in adequate amounts provide various health benefits to the host. Probiotics are "lactic acid-producing bacteria" as they release large amounts of organic acids, particularly lactic acids, in their surrounding environment. Although the acids produced by probiotics are beneficial for gastrointestinal and vaginal health, the acidogenic nature of probiotics has raised concerns among dental professionals, especially concerning their effect on the enamel and dentin. Previous studies have found that probiotics can lower the pH of the saliva and cause essential elements like Calcium and Phosphorus to leach from the enamel. This can alter the surface topography of enamel and increase the risk of enamel defects. Studies have also noted that probiotic bacteria can replace cariogenic bacteria and lower the risk of tooth decay. However, the effect of acid produced by probiotics on the enamel surface remains unclear. Hence, the present study aims to evaluate the effect of probiotics on the surface roughness, microhardness, and elemental composition of enamel compared to 0.1 M Lactic acid (demineralizing agent). Twenty enamel sections were randomly divided into groups and subjected to a pH cycling model using a probiotic suspension and 0.1 M lactic acid. The changes in the surface roughness, microhardness, surface morphology, and elemental composition of the enamel with regard to Carbon, Oxygen, Sodium, Hydrogen, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Fluoride, Chlorine, and Calcium of the enamel were evaluated before and after the emersion in both the groups. The results showed a significant increase in the mean surface roughness in the probiotic group before and after the exposure. The microhardness of the enamel decreased along with altered arrangement of the enamel prisms, increased striations, scratch marks, and pitting after exposure to the probiotic group. A decrease in the atomic/weight% for Calcium, Phosphorous, Fluoride, Aluminium, and Oxygen and an increase in the weight/atomic% for Carbon, Nitrogen, and Sodium were noted compared to the baseline in the probiotic solution. The results in the probiotic group were comparable to the 0.1 M lactic acids. The pH changed from 5.78 to 3.06 at the end of 24 h in the probiotic group. Based on these findings, we conclude that exposure to probiotics can affect microhardness and surface roughness and cause leaching of essential elements like Calcium and Phosphorous from the enamel.

Immune-Stimulating Potential of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LM1019 in RAW 264.7 Cells and Immunosuppressed Mice Induced by Cyclophosphamide

Probiotics, including Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus), have gained recognition for their potential health benefits, such as enhancing immune function, maintaining gut health, and improving nutrient absorption. This study investigated the effectiveness of L. rhamnosus LM1019 (LM1019) in enhancing immune function. In RAW 264.7 cells, LM1019 demonstrated dose-dependent immune stimulation by increasing nitric oxide production, gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines, and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). These effects were mediated through the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) translocation without inducing cytotoxicity. Furthermore, orally administered LM1019 was evaluated in immunosuppressed mice induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX). High-dose administration of LM1019 significantly increased the subpopulations of lymphocytes, specifically helper T cells (CD4+), as well as two subtypes of natural killer (NK) cells, namely, IFN-γ+ and granzyme B+ NK cells. Additionally, LM1019 at a high dose led to elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including IFN-γ and IL-12, compared to CTX-treated mice. These findings highlight the potential of LM1019 in enhancing the immune system. The study contributes to the growing body of research on the beneficial effects of probiotics on immune function.

Probiotics Modulate Host Immune Response and Interact with the Gut Microbiota: Shaping Their Composition and Mediating Antibiotic Resistance

The consortium of microbes inhabiting the human body, together with their encoded genes and secreted metabolites, is referred to as the "human microbiome." Several studies have established a link between the composition of the microbiome and its impact on human health. This impact spans local gastrointestinal inflammation to systemic autoimmune disorders and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Autism. Some of these links have been validated by rigorous experiments that identify specific strains as mediators or drivers of a particular condition. Consequently, the development of probiotics to compensate for a missing beneficial microbe(s) has advanced and become popular, especially in the treatment of irritable bowel diseases and to restore disrupted gut flora after antibiotic administration. The widespread use of probiotics is often advocated as a natural ecological therapy. However, this perception is not always accurate, as there is a potential for unexpected interactions when administering live microbial cultures. Here, we designed this research to explore the intricate interactions among probiotics, the host, and microbes through a series of experiments. Our objectives included assessing their immunomodulatory effects, response to oral medications, impact on microbial population dynamics, and mediation of antibiotic resistance. To achieve these goals, we employed diverse experimental protocols, including cell-based enzyme -linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), antibiotic susceptibility testing, antimicrobial activity assays, computational prediction of probiotic genes responsible for antibiotic resistance, polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based validation of predicted genes, and survival assays of probiotics in the presence of selected oral medications. Our findings highlight that more than half of the tested probiotics trigger an inflammatory response in the Caco-2 cell line, are influenced by oral medications, exhibit antibacterial activity, and possess genes encoding antimicrobial resistance. These results underscore the necessity for a reevaluation of probiotic usage and emphasize the importance of establishing regulations to govern probiotic testing, approval, and administration.

Probiotic OMNi-BiOTiC® 10 AAD Reduces Cyclophosphamide-Induced Inflammation and Adipose Tissue Wasting in Mice

Cancer therapy is often associated with severe side effects such as drug induced weight loss, also known as chemotherapy-induced cachexia. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a multispecies probiotic (OMNi-BiOTiC® 10 AAD) in a chemotherapy mouse model. A total of 24 male BALB/c mice were gavage-fed with the probiotic formulation or water, once a day for 3 weeks. In the third week, the mice received intraperitoneal cyclophosphamide. At euthanasia, the organs were dissected, and serum was sampled for cytokine analysis. Tight junction components, myosin light chain kinase, mucins, and apoptosis markers were detected in the ileum and colon using histological analyses and qRT-PCR. Lipolysis was analyzed by enzymatic activity assay, Western blotting analyses, and qRT-PCR in WAT. The fecal microbiome was measured with 16S-rRNA gene sequencing from stool samples, and fecal volatile organic compounds analysis was performed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The probiotic-fed mice exhibited significantly less body weight loss and adipose tissue wasting associated with a reduced CGI58 mediated lipolysis. They showed significantly fewer pro-inflammatory cytokines and lower gut permeability compared to animals fed without the probiotic. The colons of the probiotic-fed animals showed lower inflammation scores and less goblet cell loss. qRT-PCR revealed no differences in regards to tight junction components, mucins, or apoptosis markers. No differences in microbiome alpha diversity, but differences in beta diversity, were observed between the treatment groups. Taxonomic analysis showed that the probiotic group had a lower relative abundance of Odoribacter and Ruminococcus-UCG014 and a higher abundance of Desulfovibrio. VOC analysis yielded no significant differences. The results of this study indicate that oral administration of the multispecies probiotic OMNi-BiOTiC® 10 AAD could mitigate cyclophosphamide-induced chemotherapy side effects.

Probing the functional and therapeutic properties of postbiotics in relation to their industrial application

Functional foods are gaining significant research attention of researchers due to their health-endorsing properties due to their bioactive components either living cells (probiotics) or nonviable cells (prebiotics). The term "postbiotic" specifies the soluble substances, such as enzymes, peptides, teichoic acids, muropeptides derived from peptidoglycans, polysaccharides, cell surface proteins, and organic acids, that are secreted by living bacteria or released after bacterial lysis. Due to various signaling molecules which may have antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antiinflammatory, antihypertensive, and antiproliferative activities, postbiotics offer great potential to be used in pharmaceutical, food, and nutraceutical industries, to promote health and ailment prevention. This recent review is a landmark of information relevant to the production of postbiotics along with salient features to use in various fields ranging from food to immunomodulation and selective and effective therapy. It also puts forward the concept that postbiotics are way more effective than probiotics in the veterinary, food as well as medical field which ultimately helps in reducing the disease burden along with human health.

The Challenge of Overcoming Antibiotic Resistance in Carbapenem-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria: "Attack on Titan"

The global burden of bacterial resistance remains one of the most serious public health concerns. Infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in critically ill patients require immediate empirical treatment, which may not only be ineffective due to the resistance of MDR bacteria to multiple classes of antibiotics, but may also contribute to the selection and spread of antimicrobial resistance. Both the WHO and the ECDC consider carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE), carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA), and carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) to be the highest priority. The ability to form biofilm and the acquisition of multiple drug resistance genes, in particular to carbapenems, have made these pathogens particularly difficult to treat. They are a growing cause of healthcare-associated infections and a significant threat to public health, associated with a high mortality rate. Moreover, co-colonization with these pathogens in critically ill patients was found to be a significant predictor for in-hospital mortality. Importantly, they have the potential to spread resistance using mobile genetic elements. Given the current situation, it is clear that finding new ways to combat antimicrobial resistance can no longer be delayed. The aim of this review was to evaluate the literature on how these pathogens contribute to the global burden of AMR. The review also highlights the importance of the rational use of antibiotics and the need to implement antimicrobial stewardship principles to prevent the transmission of drug-resistant organisms in healthcare settings. Finally, the review discusses the advantages and limitations of alternative therapies for the treatment of infections caused by these "titans" of antibiotic resistance.

Probiotics for the treatment of ulcerative colitis: a review of experimental research from 2018 to 2022

Ulcerative colitis (UC) has become a worldwide public health problem, and the prevalence of the disease among children has been increasing. The pathogenesis of UC has not been elucidated, but dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is considered the main cause of chronic intestinal inflammation. This review focuses on the therapeutic effects of probiotics on UC and the potential mechanisms involved. In animal studies, probiotics have been shown to alleviate symptoms of UC, including weight loss, diarrhea, blood in the stool, and a shortened colon length, while also restoring intestinal microecological homeostasis, improving gut barrier function, modulating the intestinal immune response, and attenuating intestinal inflammation, thereby providing theoretical support for the development of probiotic-based microbial products as an adjunctive therapy for UC. However, the efficacy of probiotics is influenced by factors such as the bacterial strain, dose, and form. Hence, the mechanisms of action need to be investigated further. Relevant clinical trials are currently lacking, so the extension of animal experimental findings to clinical application requires a longer period of consideration for validation.

Bifidobacterium longum BORI inhibits pain behavior and chondrocyte death, and attenuates osteoarthritis progression

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form of arthritis, is characterized by pain and cartilage damage; it usually exhibits gradual development. However, the pathogenesis of OA remains unclear. This study was undertaken to improve the understanding and treatment of OA. OA was induced in 7-week-old Wistar rats by intra-articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA); subsequently, the rats underwent oral administration of Bifidobacterium longum BORI (B. BORI). The effects of B. BORI were examined in chondrocytes and an MIA-induced OA rat model. In the rats, B. BORI-mediated effects on pain severity, cartilage destruction, and inflammation were recorded. Additional effects on mRNA and cytokine secretion were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Paw withdrawal threshold, paw withdrawal latency, and weight-bearing assessments revealed that pain severity in MIA-induced OA rats was decreased after B. BORI treatment. Histopathology analyses and three-dimensional surface renderings of rat femurs from micro-computed tomography images revealed cartilage protection and cartilage loss inhibition effects in B. BORI-treated OA rats. Immunohistochemical analyses of inflammatory cytokines and catabolic markers (e.g., matrix metalloproteinases) showed that the expression levels of both were reduced in tissue from B. BORI-treated OA rats. Furthermore, B. BORI treatment decreased the expression levels of the inflammatory cytokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and inflammatory gene factors (e.g., inflammatory cell death markers) in chondrocytes. The findings indicate that oral administration of B. BORI has therapeutic potential in terms of reducing pain, progression, and inflammation in OA.

Harnessing the potential of probiotics in the treatment of alcoholic liver disorders

In the current scenario, prolonged consumption of alcohol across the globe is upsurging an appreciable number of patients with the risk of alcohol-associated liver diseases. According to the recent report, the gut-liver axis is crucial in the progression of alcohol-induced liver diseases, including steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite several factors associated with alcoholic liver diseases, the complexity of the gut microflora and its great interaction with the liver have become a fascinating area for researchers due to the high exposure of the liver to free radicals, bacterial endotoxins, lipopolysaccharides, inflammatory markers, etc. Undoubtedly, alcohol-induced gut microbiota imbalance stimulates dysbiosis, disrupts the intestinal barrier function, and trigger immune as well as inflammatory responses which further aggravate hepatic injury. Since currently available drugs to mitigate liver disorders have significant side effects, hence, probiotics have been widely researched to alleviate alcohol-associated liver diseases and to improve liver health. A broad range of probiotic bacteria like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria, Escherichia coli, Sacchromyces, and Lactococcus are used to reduce or halt the progression of alcohol-associated liver diseases. Several underlying mechanisms, including alteration of the gut microbiome, modulation of intestinal barrier function and immune response, reduction in the level of endotoxins, and bacterial translocation, have been implicated through which probiotics can effectively suppress the occurrence of alcohol-induced liver disorders. This review addresses the therapeutic applications of probiotics in the treatment of alcohol-associated liver diseases. Novel insights into the mechanisms by which probiotics prevent alcohol-associated liver diseases have also been elaborated.

The Role of the Microbiome in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Asthma

The role of the microbiome in the pathogenesis and treatment of asthma is significant. The purpose of this article is to show the interplay between asthma and the microbiome, and main areas that require further research are also highlighted. The literature search was conducted using the PubMed database. After a screening process of studies published before May 2023, a total of 128 articles were selected in our paper. The pre-treatment bronchial microbiome in asthmatic patients plays a role in their responsiveness to treatment. Gut microbiota and its dysbiosis can contribute to immune system modulation and the development of asthma. The association between the microbiome and asthma is complex. Further research is necessary to clarify which factors might moderate that relationship. An appropriate gut microbiome and its intestinal metabolites are a protective factor for asthma development. Prebiotics and certain dietary strategies may have a prophylactic or therapeutic effect, but more research is needed to establish final conclusions. Although the evidence regarding probiotics is ambiguous, and most meta-analyses do not support the use of probiotic intake to reduce asthma, several of the most recent studies have provided promising effects. Further studies should focus on the investigation of specific strains and the examination of their mechanistic and genetic aspects.

Evaluation of Rouxiella badensis Subsp Acadiensis (Canan SV-53) as a Potential Probiotic Bacterium

The advent of omic platforms revealed the significant benefits of probiotics in the prevention of many infectious diseases. This led to a growing interest in novel strains of probiotics endowed with health characteristics related to microbiome and immune modulation. Therefore, autochthonous bacteria in plant ecosystems might offer a good source for novel next-generation probiotics. The main objective of this study was to analyze the effect of Rouxiella badensis acadiensis Canan (R. acadiensis) a bacterium isolated from the blueberry biota, on the mammalian intestinal ecosystem and its potential as a probiotic microorganism. R. acadiensis, reinforced the intestinal epithelial barrier avoiding bacterial translocation from the gut to deep tissues, even after feeding BALB/c mice for a prolonged period of time. Moreover, diet supplementation with R. acadiensis led to increases in the number of Paneth cells, well as an increase in the antimicrobial peptide α defensin. The anti-bacterial effect of R. acadiensis against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium was also reported. Importantly, R. acadiensis-fed animals showed better survival in an in vivo Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium challenge compared with those that received a conventional diet. These results demonstrated that R. acadiensis possesses characteristics of a probiotic strain by contributing to the reinforcement and maintenance of intestinal homeostasis.

A large-scale causal analysis of gut microbiota and delirium: A Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Several studies have linked gut microbiota to human brain activity. This study used Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the causal relationship between gut microbes and delirium.

METHODS

MR was used to select SNPs from large-scale GWAS summary data on 211 gut microbiota taxa and delirium. Inverse variance weighting (IVW), weighted median, and MR-Egger methods were used for statistical analyses. Outliers were assessed using the leave-one-out method. To avoid horizontal pleiotropy, we performed the MR-PRESSO and MR-Egger intercept tests. Cochran's Q and I₂ values for IVW and MR-Egger were used to assess heterogeneity.

RESULTS

IVW suggested that genetic prediction of the family Desulfovibrionaceae (1.784 (1.267-2.512), P = 0.001), order Desulfovibrionales (1.501 (1.058-2.128), P = 0.023), and genus Candidatus Soleaferrea (1.322 (1.052-1.659), P = 0.016) increased the risk of delirium, but the family Oxalobacteraceae (0.841 (0.722-0.981), P = 0.027), and genera Holdemania (0.766 (0.620-0.946), P = 0.013), Ruminococcus gnavus (0.806 (0.661-0.982), P = 0.033), and Eggerthella (0.815 (0.667-0.997), P = 0.047) reduced the risk of delirium.

LIMITATIONS

(1) Limited sample size, (2) inability to assess gut microbiota interactions, and (3) limited to European populations.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that presence of the microbial family Desulfovibrionaceae, order Desulfovibrionales, and genus Candidatus Soleaferrea increased the risk of delirium, whereas the Oxalobacteraceae family, and the genera Holdemania, Ruminococcus gnavus, and Eggerthella decreased the risk of delirium. However, the potential of gut probiotic interventions in the prevention of perioperative delirium should be emphasized.

The Effect of Probiotic Supplementation on the Gut-Brain Axis in Psychiatric Patients

The pathophysiology of several psychiatric diseases may entail disturbances in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and metabolic pathways. Variations in how these effects present themselves may be connected to individual variances in clinical symptoms and treatment responses, such as the observation that a significant fraction of participants do not respond to current antipsychotic drugs. A bidirectional signaling pathway between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract is known as the microbiota-gut-brain axis. The large and small intestines contain more than 100 trillion microbial cells, contributing to the intestinal ecosystem's incredible complexity. Interactions between the microbiota and intestinal epithelium can alter brain physiology and affect mood and behavior. There has recently been a focus on how these relationships impact mental health. According to evidence, intestinal microbiota may play a role in neurological and mental illnesses. Intestinal metabolites of microbial origin, such as short-chain fatty acids, tryptophan metabolites, and bacterial components that might stimulate the host's immune system, are mentioned in this review. We aim to shed some on the growing role of gut microbiota in inducing/manipulating several psychiatric disorders, which may pave the way for novel microbiota-based therapies.

Analysis of the microbial content of probiotic products commercialized worldwide and survivability in conditions mimicking the human gut environment

Introduction

Probiotics are living microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. Adequate number of living microbes, the presence of specific microorganisms, and their survival in the gastrointestinal (GI) environment are important to achieve desired health benefits of probiotic products. In this in vitro study, 21 leading probiotic formulations commercialized worldwide were evaluated for their microbial content and survivability in simulated GI conditions.

Methods

Plate-count method was used to determine the amount of living microbes contained in the products. Culture-dependent Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry and culture-independent metagenomic analysis through 16S and 18S rDNA sequencing were applied in combination for species identification. To estimate the potential survivability of the microorganisms contained in the products in the harsh GI environment, an in vitro model composed of different simulated gastric and intestinal fluids was adopted.

Results

The majority of the tested probiotic products were concordant with the labels in terms of number of viable microbes and contained probiotic species. However, one product included fewer viable microbes than those displayed on the label, one product contained two species that were not declared, and another product lacked one of the labeled probiotic strains. Survivability in simulated acidic and alkaline GI fluids was highly variable depending on the composition of the products. The microorganisms contained in four products survived in both acidic and alkaline environments. For one of these products, microorganisms also appeared to grow in the alkaline environment.

Conclusion

This in vitro study demonstrates that most globally commercialized probiotic products are consistent with the claims described on their labels with respect to the number and species of the contained microbes. Evaluated probiotics generally performed well in survivability tests, although viability of microbes in simulated gastric and intestinal environments showed large variability. Although the results obtained in this study indicate a good quality of the tested formulations, it is important to stress that stringent quality controls of probiotic products should always be performed to provide optimal health benefits for the host.

Promising biotherapeutic prospects of different probiotics and their derived postbiotic metabolites: in-vitro and histopathological investigation

BACKGROUND

Probiotics and their derived postbiotics, as cell-free supernatants (CFS), are gaining a solid reputation owing to their prodigious health-promoting effects. Probiotics play a valuable role in the alleviation of various diseases among which are infectious diseases and inflammatory disorders. In this study, three probiotic strains, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, and Pediococcus acidilactici, were isolated from marketed dietary supplements. The antimicrobial activity of the isolated probiotic strains as well as their CFS was investigated. The neutralized CFS of the isolated probiotics were tested for their antibiofilm potential. The anti-inflammatory activity of the isolated Lactobacillus spp., together with their CFS, was studied in the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model in male Wistar rats. To the best of our knowledge, such a model was not previously experimented to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of the CFS of probiotics. The histopathological investigation was implemented to assess the anti-inflammatory prospect of the isolated L. plantarum and L. rhamnosus strains as well as their CFS.

RESULTS

The whole viable probiotics and their CFS showed variable growth inhibition of the tested indicator strains using the agar overlay method and the microtiter plate assay, respectively. When tested for virulence factors, the probiotic strains were non-hemolytic lacking both deoxyribonuclease and gelatinase enzymes. However, five antibiotic resistance genes, blaZ, ermB, aac(6')- aph(2"), aph(3'')-III, and vanX, were detected in all isolates. The neutralized CFS of the isolated probiotics exhibited an antibiofilm effect as assessed by the crystal violet assay. This effect was manifested by hindering the biofilm formation of the tested Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolates in addition to P. aeruginosa PAO1 strain. Generally, the cell cultures of the two tested probiotics moderately suppressed the acute inflammation induced by carrageenan compared to indomethacin. Additionally, the studied CFS relatively reduced the inflammatory changes compared to the inflammation control group but less than that observed in the case of the probiotic cultures treated groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The tested probiotics, along with their CFS, showed promising antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Thus, their safety and their potential use as biotherapeutics for bacterial infections and inflammatory conditions are worthy of further investigation.

Use of probiotic lactobacilli in the treatment of vaginal infections: In vitro and in vivo investigations

The vaginal microbiome is a distinct component of the human microbiome that is colonized by a wide variety of microorganisms. Lactobacilli are the most frequently identified microorganisms in the healthy human vagina. These Gram-positive bacilli can acidify the vaginal microenvironment, inhibit the proliferation of other pathogenic microorganisms, and promote the maintenance of a eubiotic vaginal microbiome. However, a vaginal flora with a reduced proportion or abundance of lactobacilli is associated with various vaginal infections that have been linked to serious health consequences such as infertility, preterm birth, pelvic inflammatory disease, premature rupture of membranes, and miscarriage. Due to their “Generally Recognized as Safe” classification and critical role in vaginal health, probiotic lactobacilli have been widely used as an alternative or adjunct to traditional antibiotic therapy for the treatment of vaginal infections and restoration of the vaginal microbiome. This review focuses on the significant role of probiotic lactobacilli in the vaginal microenvironment and discusses the use of probiotic lactobacilli in the treatment of female vaginal infections in vitro and in vivo.

Metabotropic Effect of Probiotic Supplementation and High-Intensity Interval Training in Menopause-Induced Metabolic Syndrome in Rats

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the interactive effect of supplementation with a native potential probiotic lactobacillus and 8-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on insulin resistance and dyslipidemia in a menopause-induced metabolic syndrome.

METHODS

A total of 40 ovariectomized (OVX) Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control (OVX + Vehicle), exercise (EXE) (OVX + Exe), probiotic (Prob) (OVX + Prob), exercise and probiotic (OVX + Exe + Prob), and sham surgery. After the end of the treatment interventions, body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), visceral fat, and serum concentrations of glucose, insulin, lipid profile, and adiponectin were measured using colorimetric analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively.

RESULTS

Data revealed a significant decrease in weight, waist circumference , visceral fat, BMI, and levels of glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, triacylglyceride, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), but an increase in high-density lipoprotein and adiponectin levels (P = 0.001), in OVX + Exe + Prob compared with the OVX + Vehicle group.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicates that native probiotic lactobacillus combined with HIIT effectively reduces body weight, visceral fat, and levels of LDL, glucose, and insulin and increases adiponectin level, although exercise contributes more to fat reduction and probiotics to insulin resistance.

Can Probiotics, Particularly Limosilactobacillus fermentum UCO-979C and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus UCO-25A, Be Preventive Alternatives against SARS-CoV-2?

COVID-19, an infection produced by the SARS-CoV-2 virus in humans, has rapidly spread to become a high-mortality pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 is a single-stranded RNA virus characterized by infecting epithelial cells of the intestine and lungs, binding to the ACE2 receptor present on epithelial cells. COVID-19 treatment is based on antivirals and antibiotics against symptomatology in addition to a successful preventive strategy based on vaccination. At this point, several variants of the virus have emerged, altering the effectiveness of treatments and thereby attracting attention to several alternative therapies, including immunobiotics, to cope with the problem. This review, based on articles, patents, and an in silico analysis, aims to address our present knowledge of the COVID-19 disease, its symptomatology, and the possible beneficial effects for patients if probiotics with the characteristics of immunobiotics are used to confront this disease. Moreover, two probiotic strains, L. fermentum UCO-979C and L. rhamnosus UCO-25A, with different effects demonstrated at our laboratory, are emphasized. The point of view of this review highlights the possible benefits of probiotics, particularly those associated with immunomodulation as well as the production of secondary metabolites, and their potential targets during SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Uptake of Levilactobacillus brevis JCM 1059 by THP-1 Cells via Interaction between SlpB and CAP-1 Promotes Cytokine Production

Several probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) exert immunomodulatory effects on the host. However, the reasons for the different effects of LAB have not been fully elucidated. To understand the different immunomodulatory effects of LAB, we evaluated the levels of critical molecules in differentiated monocytic THP-1 and dendritic cells (DCs) following the uptake of various LAB strains. Lactobacillus helveticus JCM 1120, Lactobacillus acidophilus JCM 1132, Levilactobacillus brevis JCM 1059, and Lentilactobacillus kefiri JCM 5818 showed significantly higher uptake among the 12 LAB species tested. The uptake of microbeads by THP-1 DC increased when coupled with the surface layer proteins (Slps) from the tested strains. SlpB was mainly observed in the L. brevis JCM 1059 Slps extract. The expected cell surface receptor for SlpB on THP-1 DC was purified using SlpB-coupled affinity resin and identified as adenylyl cyclase-associated protein 1 (CAP-1). SlpB binding to THP-1 DC decreased after the addition of anti-CAP-1 and anti-DC-SIGN antibodies but not after the addition of anti-macrophage-inducible C-type lectin (Mincle) antibody. These results suggest that SlpB on L. brevis JCM 1059 plays preferentially binds to CAP-1 on THP-1 DC and plays a crucial role in bacterial uptake by THP-1 cells as well as in subsequent interleukin-12 (IL-12) production.

Effects of Losartan, Atorvastatin, and Aspirin on Blood Pressure and Gut Microbiota in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

Many studies have shown that alterations in the gut microbiota are associated with hypertension. Our study aimed to observe the characteristics of the gut microbiota in hypertension and to further explore whether drug molecules can play a therapeutic role in hypertension by interfering with the gut microbiota. We evaluated the differences in the composition of the gut microbiota in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY). Meanwhile, three first-line cardiovascular disease (CVD) drugs, losartan, atorvastatin, and aspirin, were used to treat the SHR in order to observe their effects on the gut microbiota in SHR. The 16S rDNA results showed that the diversity and richness of the gut microbiota in SHR were significantly reduced compared with that of the WKY, the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio was increased, the abundances of Bifidobacterium and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria decreased, and the abundance of lactate-producing bacteria increased. In addition to lowering the blood pressure, losartan increased the abundances of Alistipes, Bacteroides, and Butyricimonas in SHR, reduced the abundances of Ruminococcaceae, Streptococcus, and Turicibacter, reduced the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, and rebalanced the gut microbiota. Losartan also increased the abundances of Bifidobacterium and SCFAs-producing bacteria and reduced the abundance of lactate-producing bacteria. However, atorvastatin and aspirin had no significant effect on the gut microbiota in SHR. The above results showed that losartan could change the characteristics of the gut microbiota in hypertension and rebalance the gut microbiota, which may be related to lowering the blood pressure. Atorvastatin and aspirin have no significant influence on the gut microbiota in SHR.

Assessing the Safety and Probiotic Characteristics of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus X253 via Complete Genome and Phenotype Analysis

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus is a generalist that can adapt to different ecological niches, serving as a valuable source of probiotics. The genome of L. rhamnosus X253 contains one chromosome and no plasmids, with a size of 2.99 Mb. Both single-copy orthologous gene-based phylogenetic analysis and average nucleotide identity indicated that dairy-derived L. rhamnosus X253 was most closely related to the human-intestine-derived strain L. rhamnosus LOCK908, rather than other dairy strains. The adaptation of L. rhamnosus X253 and the human-intestine-derived strain L. rhamnosus GG to different ecological niches was explained by structural variation analysis and COG annotation. Hemolytic assays, API ZYM assays, and antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed to validate risk-related sequences such as virulence factors, toxin-encoding genes, and antibiotic-resistance genes in the genomes of L. rhamnosus X253 and GG. The results showed that L. rhamnosus GG was able to use L-fucose, had a higher tolerance to bile salt, and adhered better to CaCo-2 cells. In contrast, L. rhamnosus X253 was capable of utilizing D-lactose, withstood larger quantities of hydrogen peroxide, and possessed excellent antioxidant properties. This study confirmed the safety and probiotic properties of L. rhamnosus X253 via complete genome and phenotype analysis, suggesting its potential as a probiotic.

Oral administration of Lacticaseibacillus casei ATCC393 promotes angiogenesis by enhancing neutrophil activity in a murine hind-limb ischemia model

Angiogenesis is a highly regulated biological event and requires the participation of neutrophils, which are innate immune cells, to initiate the systematic responses. Some strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can be used for probiotics that provide functional modifications in our immune systems. Here, we show that oral administration of Lacticaseibacillus casei ATCC393 promoted inflammatory angiogenesis accompanied by enhanced neutrophil activity. Heat-killed L. casei (HK-LC) administration improved angiogenesis in a murine hind-limb ischemia (HLI) model. The recruitment and activity of neutrophils were enhanced by HK-LC administration under the HLI conditions. Our results provide novel evidence of an immunological contribution of LAB uptake in the prevention of or recovery from cardiovascular diseases.

Complex probiotics alleviate ampicillin-induced antibiotic-associated diarrhea in mice

Aim

Antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) is a common side effect during antibiotic treatment, which can cause dysbacteriosis of the gut microbiota. Previous studies have shown beneficial effects in AAD treatment with Bifidobacterium lactis XLTG11, Lactobacillus casei Zhang, Lactobacillus plantarum CCFM8661, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus Probio-M9. However, no studies have been conducted on the immunomodulatory effects and protective intestinal barrier function of four complex probiotics. The aim of our study is to investigate the alleviation effects of complex probiotics on ampicillin-induced AAD.

Methods

Thirty-six BALB/c mice were randomly divided into six groups: normal control group (NC), model control group (MC), low-, medium-, and high-dose probiotics groups (LD, MD, and HD), and positive drug (Bifico, 1 × 10⁷ cfu) control group (PDC; Bifico, also known as Bifidobacterium Triple Live Capsule, is composed of Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Enterococcus faecalis). An AAD model was established by intragastric administration of ampicillin, by gavage of different doses of complex probiotics and Bifico. The weight gain, fecal water content, loose stool grade, intestinal permeability, total protein and albumin levels, intestinal barrier, cytokine levels, and gut microbiota were determined.

Results

The results showed that complex probiotics significantly decreased the fecal water content, loose stool grade, intestinal permeability, and ileum tissue damage. Their application increased the weight gain, SIgA, TP, and ALB levels. Additionally, complex probiotics significantly decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased those of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Meanwhile, the mRNA expression levels of ZO-1, occludin, claudin-1, and MUC2 were significantly upregulated in the probiotic-treated group. Furthermore, the complex probiotics increased the gut microbiota diversity and modulated the changes in the gut microbiota composition caused by ampicillin. At the phylum level, the abundance of Proteobacteria in the HD group was lower than that in the MC group, whereas that of Bacteroidetes was higher. At the genus level, the abundances of Klebsiella and Parabacteroides in the HD group were lower, whereas those of Bacteroides, Muribaculaceae, and Lactobacillus were higher than those in the MC group. Moreover, Spearman's correlation analysis also found that several specific gut microbiota were significantly correlated with AAD-related indicators.

Conclusion

We found that complex probiotics improved the diarrhea-related indexes, regulated gut microbiota composition and diversity, increased the expression levels of intestinal protective barrier-related genes, preserved the intestinal barrier function, and relieved inflammation and intestinal injury, thereby effectively improving AAD-associated symptoms. Graphical Abstract.

In vitro assessment of probiotic attributes for strains contained in commercial formulations

Although probiotics are often indiscriminately prescribed, they are not equal and their effects on the host may profoundly differ. In vitro determination of the attributes of probiotics should be a primary concern and be performed even before clinical studies are designed. In fact, knowledge on the biological properties a microbe possesses is crucial for selecting the most suitable bacteriotherapy for each individual. Herein, nine strains (Bacillus clausii NR, OC, SIN, T, Bacillus coagulans ATCC 7050, Bifidobacterium breve DSM 16604, Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus ATCC 53103, and Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745) declared to be contained in six commercial formulations were tested for their ability to tolerate simulated intestinal conditions, adhere to mucins, and produce β-galactosidase, antioxidant enzymes, riboflavin, and D-lactate. With the exception of B. breve, all microbes survived in simulated intestinal fluid. L. rhamnosus was unable to adhere to mucins and differences in mucin adhesion were evidenced for L. reuteri and S. boulardii depending on oxygen levels. All microorganisms produced antioxidant enzymes, but only B. clausii, B. coagulans, B. breve, and L. reuteri synthesize β-galactosidase. Riboflavin secretion was observed for Bacillus species and L. rhamnosus, while D-lactate production was restricted to L. reuteri and L. rhamnosus. Our findings indicate that the analyzed strains possess different in vitro biological properties, thus highlighting the usefulness of in vitro tests as prelude for clinical research.