Increased Relative Abundance of Ruminoccocus Is Associated With Reduced Cardiovascular Risk in an Obese Population

Increased Crystallite Stability Enhances Gut Microbial Fermentability of Type 5 Resistant Starch

The amylolytic susceptibility of starch-lipid complexes with different forms of crystallites has been studied extensively, but the fermentation properties of these complexes remain little understood. Hence, the in vitro fecal fermentation properties of starch-lipid complexes with VI-type and VII-type crystallites were investigated in the present study. Compared to VI-type complexes, fermentation of VII-type complexes caused more severe disruption to the crystallites and resulted in greater acid, reducing sugar, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production. Moreover, fermentation of VII-type complexes promoted a greater relative abundance of SCFAs-producing bacteria in the fecal microbiota than did VI-type complexes. Our results show that the more stable VII-type complexes are utilized more effectively than VI-type complexes, which can be attributed to the bacteria binding more readily to VII-type than to VI-type complexes. Therefore, VII-type complexes were considered to deliver better health benefits than VI-type complexes due to their greater potential for producing SCFAs and stimulating beneficial gut microbial activity in the colon.

Changes in the intestinal microbiota induced by the postnatal environment and their association with hypertension

It has been established that cross-fostering impacts the development of hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). However, the ability of the cross-fostering protocol to shape gut microbiota profile in SHR and impact hypertension is not known. In this sense, the current study explored the influence of normotensive and hypertensive postnatal environments on the intestinal microbiota structure, composition, and functional capacity of SHR and Wistar rats. Our findings revealed significant differences in the microbiota's composition and its metabolic activity in young non-fostered SHR (SS) vs. Wistar (WW) rats, even before hypertension onset, characterized by a reduction of the "low-abundance" bacterial genera, a diminished availability of fecal butyrate and elevated hydrogen sulfide (H2S) production by the SS gut microbiota. Despite influencing the microbiota of both strains, cross-fostering did not fully replicate the microbiota composition of the naturally reared groups in the SHR nursed by Wistar mothers (SW), or in the Wistar rats breastfed by SHR mothers (WS). The SW group had fewer significant genera identified at the Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA), despite resembling the genera profile identified in the normotensive group. While sharing bacterial genera with both SS and WW groups, the WS group is distinguished by its unique microbial composition, particularly by a greater diversity of the 'low-abundance' bacterial genera. Moreover, decreased systolic blood pressure was observed in the SW group compared to the SS group in adulthood. Thus, we could establish a link between microbiota composition and hypertension development, associating it with the loss of the "low-abundance" bacterial taxa. Our data suggest that the postnatal environment is pivotal to promoting gut microbiota compositional changes and contributes to hypertension development.

Heat Tolerance Differences Between Hu Sheep and Hu Crossbred Sheep in Microbial Community Structure and Metabolism

BACKGROUND

The frequent occurrence of extreme temperature events causes significant economic losses to the livestock industry. Therefore, delving into the differences in the physiological and molecular mechanisms of heat stress across different sheep breeds is crucial for developing effective management and breeding strategies.

METHODS

This study explores the differences in heat tolerance mechanisms between Hu sheep and Xinggao sheep by comparing their growth performance under normal and heat stress conditions, as well as examining the differences in physiological, biochemical, and antioxidant indicators related to heat tolerance, serum metabolomics, and gut microbiomics in a heat stress environment.

RESULTS

The results indicate that with changes in the temperature-humidity index (THI), Hu sheep exhibit superior stability in respiratory rate (RR) and rectal temperature (RT) fluctuations compared to Xinggao sheep. In terms of biochemical indicators and antioxidant capacity, the levels of creatinine (Cr) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in Hu sheep serum are significantly higher than those in Xinggao sheep. In comparison, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels are significantly lower. Metabolomic results showed that, compared to Hu sheep, Xinggao sheep exhibited higher cortisol (COR) and dopamine (DA) levels under heat stress conditions, a stronger lipid mobilization capacity, and elevated levels of tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle-related metabolites. Furthermore, gut microbiome analysis results indicate that Hu sheep demonstrate stronger cellulose degradation capabilities, as evidenced by significantly higher abundances of microorganisms such as Ruminococcus, Fibrobacter, and Bacteroidales_RF16_group, compared to Xinggao sheep.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, Hu sheep exhibit stronger heat tolerance compared to Xinggao sheep. These findings provide an important theoretical basis for the breeding and selection of heat-tolerant meat sheep varieties and offer strong support for the region's livestock industry in addressing the challenges posed by global warming.

Genomic features and prevalence of Ruminococcus species in humans are associated with age, lifestyle, and disease

The genus Ruminococcus is dominant in the human gut, but higher levels of some species, such as R. gnavus, R. torques, and R. bromii, have been linked to health or disease. In this study, we analyzed >9,000 Ruminococcus metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) reconstructed from >5,000 subjects and revealed significant links between the prevalence of some species/subspecies and geographic origin, age, lifestyle, and disease, with subspecies prevalent in specific subpopulations showing divergent metabolic potential. Furthermore, Ruminococcus species from Lachnospiraceae encoded for carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZy) potentially involved in the metabolism of human N- and O-glycans, whereas those from Oscillospiraceae appear to be more adapted toward fiber metabolism. These new findings contribute to elucidating the potential functional role of Ruminococcus in specific lifestyles and diseases and to decipher the diversity and the adaptation of members of this genus to the human gut.

Preventive potential of chitosan self-assembled coconut residue dietary fiber in hyperlipidemia: Mechanistic insights into gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids

Hyperlipidemia is a metabolic disorder resulted from unhealthy dietary and lifestyle habits. Its pathogenesis is possibly linked to gut microbiota dysbiosis. This study investigates the preventive effects of chitosan self-assembled coconut residue dietary fiber (CRFSC) on hyperlipidemia induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and gut microbiota. CRFSC resulted in a significant weight loss of 7.9% in HFD rats and had a preventive effect on all four lipid parameter abnormalities. HFD supplemented with oat group resulted in a weight loss of 3.8% in HFD rats and had no preventive effect on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) abnormalities. Prevention was achieved not only through the modulation of gut microbiota composition and the increase of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) levels, but also through the activation of superoxide dismutase enzyme and the inhibition of malondialdehyde accumulation, all of which are the factors leading to the controlling of lipid abnormalities and oxidative damage. The prevention of lipid parameters by chitosan self-assembled coconut residue dietary fiber (CRFSC) may be attributed to its richness in chitosan and insoluble dietary fiber, as well as its ability to enrich beneficial bacteria such as Akkermansia, Roseburia, and Ruminococcus. Correlation analysis demonstrated that key bacterial species producing SCFAs, which are rich in the CRFSC diet, had a positive impact on controlling hyperlipidemia. Hence, consumption of a CRFSC diet could serve as an effective strategy for preventing and controlling the development of hyperlipidemia due to its potential ability to regulate gut microbiota and SCFAs. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study showed that dietary fiber from coconut residue after chitosan self-assembly had preventive effects on overweight, dyslipidemia, and oxidative damage in rats. In addition, CRFSC also increased the content of short-chain fatty acids in the gut. And improve gut health by affecting gut microbiota. This finding suggests that CRFSC can be used as a dietary strategy to prevent hyperlipidemia and has practical significance in developing new healthy foods.

Efficient Biosynthesis of Theanderose, a Potent Prebiotic, Using Amylosucrase from Deinococcus deserti

The study aimed to develop an efficient bioprocess for the discovery and synthesis of theanderose by using amylosucrase from Deinococcus deserti (DdAS). An unknown trisaccharide produced by DdAS was detected by high-performance anion-exchange chromatography-pulsed amperometric detection and high-performance liquid chromatography-evaporative light scattering detection, purified using medium-pressure liquid chromatography, and identified as theanderose (α-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→6)-α-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-d-fructofuranoside) through nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. DdAS synthesized theanderose with a 25.4% yield (174.1 g/L) using 2.0 M sucrose at 40 °C for 96 h. In an in vitro digestion model, theanderose showed a 6.5% hydrolysis rate over 16 h. Prebiotic efficacy tests confirmed that theanderose significantly enhanced the proliferation of selected Bifidobacterium strains in the culturing medium with theanderose as the main carbon source. Subsequently, fecal fermentation was performed by adding theanderose to the feces of 20 individuals of varying ages to assess its effect on the gut microbiota. Theanderose increased the relative abundance of Bifidobacteriaceae and Prevotellaceae while decreasing the population ratio of Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae. Conclusively, theanderose displayed excellent prebiotic potential when judged by low digestibility and selective growth of beneficial microbes over harmful microbes.

Revealing the Potential Impacts of Nutraceuticals Formulated with Freeze-Dried Jabuticaba Peel and Limosilactobacillus fermentum Strains Candidates for Probiotic Use on Human Intestinal Microbiota

This study evaluated the impacts of novel nutraceuticals formulated with freeze-dried jabuticaba peel (FJP) and three potentially probiotic Limosilactobacillus fermentum strains on the abundance of bacterial groups forming the human intestinal microbiota, metabolite production, and antioxidant capacity during in vitro colonic fermentation. The nutraceuticals had high viable counts of L. fermentum after freeze-drying (≥ 9.57 ± 0.09 log CFU/g). The nutraceuticals increased the abundance of Lactobacillus ssp./Enterococcus spp. (2.46-3.94%), Bifidobacterium spp. (2.28-3.02%), and Ruminococcus albus/R. flavefaciens (0.63-4.03%), while decreasing the abundance of Bacteroides spp./Prevotella spp. (3.91-2.02%), Clostridium histolyticum (1.69-0.40%), and Eubacterium rectale/C. coccoides (3.32-1.08%), which were linked to positive prebiotic indices (> 1.75). The nutraceuticals reduced the pH and increased the sugar consumption, short-chain fatty acid production, phenolic acid content, and antioxidant capacity, besides altering the metabolic profile during colonic fermentation. The combination of FJP and probiotic L. fermentum is a promising strategy to produce nutraceuticals targeting intestinal microbiota.

Anti-obesogenic effect of lupin-derived protein hydrolysate through modulation of adiposopathy, insulin resistance and gut dysbiosis in a diet-induced obese mouse

The prevalence of obesity is increasingly widespread, resembling a global epidemic. Lifestyle changes, such as consumption of high-energy-dense diets and physical inactivity, are major contributors to obesity. Common features of this metabolic pathology involve an imbalance in lipid and glucose homeostasis including dyslipidemia, insulin resistance and adipose tissue dysfunction. Moreover, the importance of the gut microbiota in the development and susceptibility to obesity has recently been highlighted. In recent years, new strategies based on the use of functional foods, in particular bioactive peptides, have been proposed to counteract obesity outcomes. In this context, the present study examines the effects of a lupin protein hydrolysate (LPH) on obesity, dyslipidemia and gut dysbiosis in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). After 12 weeks of LPH treatment, mice gained less weight and showed decreased adipose dysfunction compared to the HFD-fed group. HFD-induced dyslipidemia (increased triglycerides, cholesterol and LDL concentration) and insulin resistance were both counteracted by LPH consumption. Discriminant analysis differentially distributed LPH-treated mice compared to non-treated mice. HFD reduced gut ecological parameters, promoted the blooming of deleterious taxa and reduced the abundance of commensal members. Some of these changes were corrected in the LPH group. Finally, correlation analysis suggested that changes in this microbial population could be responsible for the improvement in obesity outcomes. In conclusion, this is the first study to show the effect of LPH on improving weight gain, adiposopathy and gut dysbiosis in the context of diet-induced obesity, pointing to the therapeutic potential of bioactive peptides in metabolic diseases.

Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis, Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Epigenetic Alterations in Metabolic Diseases

Gut dysbiosis, resulting from an imbalance in the gut microbiome, can induce excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to inflammation, DNA damage, activation of the immune system, and epigenetic alterations of critical genes involved in the metabolic pathways. Gut dysbiosis-induced inflammation can also disrupt the gut barrier integrity and increase intestinal permeability, which allows gut-derived toxic products to enter the liver and systemic circulation, further triggering oxidative stress, inflammation, and epigenetic alterations associated with metabolic diseases. However, specific gut-derived metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), lactate, and vitamins, can modulate oxidative stress and the immune system through epigenetic mechanisms, thereby improving metabolic function. Gut microbiota and diet-induced metabolic diseases, such as obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, can transfer to the next generation, involving epigenetic mechanisms. In this review, we will introduce the key epigenetic alterations that, along with gut dysbiosis and ROS, are engaged in developing metabolic diseases. Finally, we will discuss potential therapeutic interventions such as dietary modifications, prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, which may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with metabolic syndrome by altering gut microbiota and epigenetic alterations. In summary, this review highlights the crucial role of gut microbiota dysbiosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation in the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases, with a particular focus on epigenetic alterations (including histone modifications, DNA methylomics, and RNA interference) and potential interventions that may prevent or improve metabolic diseases.

Diet and the Gut Microbiome as Determinants Modulating Metabolic Outcomes in Young Obese Adults

Obesity, along with metabolic disorders such as dyslipidemia and insulin resistance, increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, various cancers, and other non-communicable diseases, thereby contributing to higher mortality rates. The intestinal microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and influencing human metabolism. This study enrolled 82 young obese individuals, who were stratified into groups with or without metabolic disturbances. No significant differences in the alpha or beta diversity of the microbiota were observed among the groups. Insulin resistance was characterized by an increase in the number of Adlercreutzia and Dialister as well as a decrease in Collinsella, Coprococcus and Clostridiales. The dyslipidemia and dyslipidemia+insulin resistance groups had no significant differences in the gut microbiota. Dietary patterns also influenced microbial composition, with high protein intake increasing Leuconostoc and Akkermansia, and high fiber intake boosting Lactobacillus and Streptococcus. The genus Erwinia was associated with increases in visceral fat and serum glucose as well as a decrease in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Our findings highlight a significant association between gut microbiota composition and metabolic disturbances in young obese individuals, and they suggest that dietary modifications may promote a healthy microbiome and reduce the risk of developing metabolic disorders.

Important roles of Ruminococcaceae in the human intestine for resistant starch utilization

Intricate ecosystem of the human gut microbiome is affected by various environmental factors, genetic makeup of the individual, and diet. Specifically, resistant starch (RS) is indigestible in the small intestine but nourishes the gut microbiota in the colon. Degradation of RS in the gut begins with primary degraders, such as Bifidobacterium adolescentis and Ruminococcus bromii. Recently, new RS degraders, such as Ruminococcoides bili, have been reported. These microorganisms play crucial roles in the transformation of RS into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate. SCFAs are necessary to maintain optimal intestinal health, regulate inflammation, and protect against various illnesses. This review discusses the effects of RS on gut and highlights its complex interactions with gut flora, especially the Ruminococcaceae family.

A Multi-Omics Approach to Disclose Metabolic Pathways Impacting Intestinal Permeability in Obese Patients Undergoing Very Low Calorie Ketogenic Diet

A very low calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) impacts host metabolism in people marked by an excess of visceral adiposity, and it affects the microbiota composition in terms of taxa presence and relative abundances. As a matter of fact, there is little available literature dealing with microbiota differences in obese patients marked by altered intestinal permeability. With the aim of inspecting consortium members and their related metabolic pathways, we inspected the microbial community profile, together with the set of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from untargeted fecal and urine metabolomics, in a cohort made of obese patients, stratified based on both normal and altered intestinal permeability, before and after VLCKD administration. Based on the taxa relative abundances, we predicted microbiota-derived metabolic pathways whose variations were explained in light of our cohort symptom picture. A totally different number of statistically significant pathways marked samples with altered permeability, reflecting an important shift in microbiota taxa. A combined analysis of taxa, metabolic pathways, and metabolomic compounds delineates a set of markers that is useful in describing obesity dysfunctions and comorbidities.

Efficacy of Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis LY-66 and Lactobacillus plantarum PL-02 in Enhancing Explosive Strength and Endurance: A Randomized, Double-Blinded Clinical Trial

Probiotics are posited to enhance exercise performance by influencing muscle protein synthesis, augmenting glycogen storage, and reducing inflammation. This double-blind study randomized 88 participants to receive a six-week intervention with either a placebo, Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis LY-66, Lactobacillus plantarum PL-02, or a combination of both strains, combined with a structured exercise training program. We assessed changes in maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), exercise performance, and gut microbiota composition before and after the intervention. Further analyses were conducted to evaluate the impact of probiotics on exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), muscle integrity, and inflammatory markers in the blood, 24 and 48 h post-intervention. The results demonstrated that all probiotic groups exhibited significant enhancements in exercise performance and attenuation of muscle strength decline post-exercise exhaustion (p < 0.05). Notably, PL-02 intake significantly increased muscle mass, whereas LY-66 and the combination therapy significantly reduced body fat percentage (p < 0.05). Analysis of intestinal microbiota revealed an increase in beneficial bacteria, especially a significant rise in Akkermansia muciniphila following supplementation with PL-02 and LY-66 (p < 0.05). Overall, the combination of exercise training and supplementation with PL-02, LY-66, and their combination improved muscle strength, explosiveness, and endurance performance, and had beneficial effects on body composition and gastrointestinal health, as evidenced by data obtained from non-athlete participants.

A Comprehensive Pilot Study to Elucidate the Distinct Gut Microbial Composition and Its Functional Significance in Cardio-Metabolic Disease

Cardio-metabolic disease is a significant global health challenge with increasing prevalence. Recent research underscores the disruption of gut microbial balance as a key factor in disease susceptibility. We aimed to characterize the gut microbiota composition and function in cardio-metabolic disease and healthy controls. For this purpose, we collected stool samples of 18 subjects (12 diseased, 6 healthy) and we performed metagenomics analysis and functional prediction using QIIME2 and PICRUSt. Furthermore, we carried out assessments of microbe-gene interactions, gene ontology, and microbe-disease associations. Our findings revealed distinct microbial patterns in the diseased group, particularly evident in lower taxonomic levels with significant variations in 14 microbial features. The diseased cohort exhibited an enrichment of Lachnospiraceae family, correlating with obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic disturbances. Conversely, reduced levels of Clostridium, Gemmiger, and Ruminococcus genera indicated a potential inflammatory state, linked to compromised butyrate production and gut permeability. Functional analyses highlighted dysregulated pathways in amino acid metabolism and energy equilibrium, with perturbations correlating with elevated branch-chain amino acid levels-a known contributor to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. These findings were consistent across biomarker assessments, microbe-gene associations, and gene ontology analyses, emphasizing the intricate interplay between gut microbial dysbiosis and cardio-metabolic disease progression. In conclusion, our study unveils significant shifts in gut microbial composition and function in cardio-metabolic disease, emphasizing the broader implications of microbial dysregulation. Addressing gut microbial balance emerges as a crucial therapeutic target in managing cardio-metabolic disease burden.

Effect of in ovo feeding of xylobiose and xylotriose on plasma immunoglobulin, cecal metabolites production, microbial ecology, and metabolic pathways in broiler chickens

BACKGROUND

Dietary supplementation of xylooligosaccharides (XOS) has been found to influence gut health by manipulating cecal microbiota and producing microbe-origin metabolites. But no study investigated and compared the effect of in ovo feeding of xylobiose (XOS2) and xylotriose (XOS3) in chickens. This study investigated the effect of in ovo feeding of these XOS compounds on post-hatch gut health parameters in chickens. A total of 144 fertilized chicken eggs were divided into three groups: a) non-injected control (CON), b) XOS2, and c) XOS3. On the 17th embryonic day, the eggs of the XOS2 and XOS3 groups were injected with 3 mg of XOS2 and XOS3 diluted in 0.5 mL of 0.85% normal saline through the amniotic sac. After hatching, the chicks were raised for 21 d. Blood was collected on d 14 to measure plasma immunoglobulin. Cecal digesta were collected for measuring short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) on d 14 and 21, and for microbial ecology and microbial metabolic pathway analyses on d 7 and 21.

RESULTS

The results were considered significantly different at P < 0.05. ELISA quantified plasma IgA and IgG on d 14 chickens, revealing no differences among the treatments. Gas chromatography results showed no significant differences in the concentrations of cecal SCFAs on d 14 but significant differences on d 21. However, the SCFA concentrations were lower in the XOS3 than in the CON group on d 21. The cecal metagenomics data showed that the abundance of the family Clostridiaceae significantly decreased on d 7, and the abundance of the family Oscillospiraceae increased on d 21 in the XOS2 compared to the CON. There was a reduction in the relative abundance of genus Clostridium sensu stricto 1 in the XOS2 compared to the CON on d 7 and the genus Ruminococcus torques in both XOS2 and XOS3 groups compared to the CON on d 21. The XOS2 and XOS3 groups reduced the genes for chondroitin sulfate degradation I and L-histidine degradation I pathways, which contribute to improved gut health, respectively, in the microbiome on d 7. In contrast, on d 21, the XOS2 and XOS3 groups enriched the thiamin salvage II, L-isoleucine biosynthesis IV, and O-antigen building blocks biosynthesis (E. coli) pathways, which are indicative of improved gut health. Unlike the XOS3 and CON, the microbiome enriched the pathways associated with energy enhancement, including flavin biosynthesis I, sucrose degradation III, and Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle pathways, in the XOS2 group on d 21.

CONCLUSION

In ovo XOS2 and XOS3 feeding promoted beneficial bacterial growth and reduced harmful bacteria at the family and genus levels. The metagenomic-based microbial metabolic pathway profiling predicted a favorable change in the availability of cecal metabolites in the XOS2 and XOS3 groups. The modulation of microbiota and metabolic pathways suggests that in ovo XOS2 and XOS3 feeding improved gut health during the post-hatch period of broilers.

Investigation of the therapeutic effect of Hedan tablets on high-fat diet-induced obesity in rats by GC-MS technology and 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing

Obesity is a persistent metabolic condition resulting from the excessive accumulation or abnormal distribution of body fat. This study aimed to establish an experimental rat model of obesity. The efficacy of treating obesity with Hedan tablets (HDT) was assessed by monitoring changes in weight, blood lipid levels, analyzing inflammatory factors, evaluating organ indices, and observing liver tissue pathology. Furthermore, we utilized 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing technology to explore changes in intestinal flora. In addition, GC-MS was used to measure fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) content. The onset of obesity led to a significant decrease in the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria. Conversely, the administration of HDT demonstrated a substantial ability to increase the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria. Obesity resulted in a noteworthy reduction in total SCFAs, a trend significantly reversed in the HDT group. Through correlation analysis, it was determined that HDT mitigated the inflammatory response and improved blood lipid levels by augmenting the abundance of Lactobacillus, Limosilactobacillus, Ruminococcus, and Enterococcus. These particular intestinal flora were identified as regulators of SCFA metabolism, thereby ameliorating metabolic abnormalities associated with obesity. Moreover, HDT intervention elevated the overall fecal concentration of SCFAs, thereby improving metabolic disorders induced by obesity. The anti-obesity effects of HDT are likely attributable to their capacity to influence the composition of intestinal flora and boost SCFA levels in the intestine.

Exploring the modulatory effects of brown seaweed meal and extracts on intestinal microbiota and morphology of broiler chickens challenged with heat stress

Brown seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) is known for its prebiotic roles and can improve animal intestinal health by enhancing the growth of beneficial microbes and inhibiting pathogenic ones. However, the gut health-modulatory roles of brown seaweed on chickens challenged with heat stress (HS) are rarely studied. The current study examined the effects of brown seaweed meal (SWM) and extract (SWE) on the ceca microbiota and small intestinal morphology of chickens challenged or unchallenged with HS. Three hundred and thirty-six 1-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to either a thermoneutral (TN; 24 ± 1°C); or HS room (HS; 32-34°C, 8 h/d from d 21 to 27). All birds in each room were randomly allotted to 4 treatments - control (CON), CON + 1 mL/L seaweed extract (SWE) in drinking water, CON + 2 mL/L SWE in drinking water, and CON + 2% seaweed meal (SWM) in feed and raised for 28 d. On d 14 and 28, 12 and 24 birds per treatment group, respectively, were euthanized to collect the ceca content for gut microbiota analysis and small intestinal tissues for morphological examination. On d 14, 2% SWM increased (P = 0.047) the relative abundance of cecal Fecalibacterium and all brown seaweed treatments improved jejunal villus height (VH) and VH:CD compared to the CON diet. On d 28, HS significantly reduced (P < 0.05) ileal VH, VW, and VH:CD, and duodenal VH and VH:CD. Among the HS group, 2% SWM and 2 mL/L SWE significantly increased (P < 0.05) the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Sellimonas, and Fournierella, compared to the CON diet. HS birds fed with 2% SWM had higher ileal VH and VH:CD compared to other treatments. In summary, SWM and SWE enhanced the abundance of beneficial microbes and improved small intestinal morphology among HS chickens. This implies that seaweed could potentially alleviate HS-induced intestinal impairment in chickens.

Sex-specific differences in intestinal microbiota associated with cardiovascular diseases

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including coronary heart disease (CHD), display a higher prevalence in men than women. This study aims to evaluate the variations in the intestinal microbiota between men and women afflicted with CHD and delineate these against a non-CVD control group for each sex.

METHODS

Our research was conducted in the framework of the CORDIOPREV study, a clinical trial which involved 837 men and 165 women with CHD. We contrasted our findings with a reference group of 375 individuals (270 men, 105 women) without CVD. The intestinal microbiota was examined through 16S metagenomics on the Illumina MiSeq platform and the data processed with Quiime2 software.

RESULTS

Our results showed a sex-specific variation (beta diversity) in the intestinal microbiota, while alpha-biodiversity remained consistent across both sexes. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis revealed sex-centric alterations in the intestinal microbiota linked to CVD. Moreover, using random forest (RF) methodology, we identified seven bacterial taxa-g_UBA1819 (Ruminococcaceae), g_Bilophila, g_Subdoligranulum, g_Phascolarctobacterium, f_Barnesiellaceae, g_Ruminococcus, and an unknown genus from the Ruminococcaceae family (Ruminococcaceae incertae sedis)-as key discriminators between men and women diagnosed with CHD. The same taxa also emerged as critical discriminators between CHD-afflicted and non-CVD individuals, when analyzed separately by sex.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest a sex-specific dysbiosis in the intestinal microbiota linked to CHD, potentially contributing to the sex disparity observed in CVD incidence. Trial registration Clinical Trials.gov.Identifier NCT00924937.

Prospective Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of a Standardized Oral Pomegranate Extract on the Gut Microbiome and Short-Chain Fatty Acids

Punica granatum L., commonly known as the pomegranate, is an abundant source of polyphenols, including hydrolyzable ellagitannins, ellagic acid, anthocyanins, and other bioactive phytochemicals shown to be effective in defending against oxidative stress, and has immunomodulatory activities. Ellagitannins, and their hydrolyzed product ellagic acid, interact with the gut microbiota to yield secondary metabolites known as urolithins that may have health benefits. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of supplementation with a standardized punicalagin-enriched pomegranate extract, Pomella® (250 mg), on the gut microbiome, circulating short-chain fatty acids, and gut microbial-derived ellagitannin metabolite urolithins. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted over 4 weeks on healthy volunteers aged 25-55 years. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive either an oral supplement containing 75 mg of punicalagin or an oral placebo. Stool sample collection and venipuncture were performed to analyze the gut microbiome, SCFAs, and urolithin. There was no significant change in the gut microbial diversity in both cohorts after 4 weeks of intervention, but there was a significantly increased relative abundance of Coprococcus eutectus, Roseburia faecis, Roseburia inullnivorans, Ruminococcus bicirculans, Ruminococcus calidus, and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. Pomegranate extract (PE) supplementation led to the augmentation of circulating propionate levels (p = 0.02) and an increasing trend for acetate levels (p = 0.12). The pomegranate extract (PE) supplementation group had an increased level of circulating urolithins compared to the placebo group (6.6% vs. 1.1%, p = 0.13). PE supplementation correlated with shifts in the gut microbiome and with higher circulating levels of propionate and acetate. Further studies should explore the implications in larger cohorts and over a longer duration.

Dietary supplementation of microalgae mitigates the negative effects of heat stress in broilers

Heat stress in poultry is a serious concern, affecting their health and productivity. To effectively address the issue of heat stress, it is essential to include antioxidant-rich compounds in the poultry diet to ensure the proper functioning of the redox system. Microalgae (Spirulina platensis) are rich in antioxidants and have several health benefits in humans and animals. However, its role in health and production and the underlying mechanism in heat-stressed broilers are poorly understood. This study aimed to determine the effect of microalgae supplementation on the health and production of heat-stressed broilers. Cobb500 day-old chicks (N = 144) were raised in litter floor pens (6 pens/treatment and 8 birds/pen). The treatment groups were: 1) no heat stress (NHS), 2) heat stress (HS), and 3) heat stress + 3% microalgae (HS+MAG). The broilers in the HS+MAG group were fed a diet supplemented with 3% microalgae, whereas NHS and HS groups were fed a standard broiler diet. Broilers in the NHS were raised under standard temperature (20°C-24°C), while HS and HS+MAG broilers were subjected to cyclic heat stress from d 22 to 35 (32°C-33°C for 8 h). Heat stress significantly decreased the final body weight, whereas the supplementation of microalgae increased the final body weight of broilers (P < 0.05). The expressions of ileal antioxidant (GPX3), immune-related (IL4), and tight-junction (CLDN2) genes were increased in microalgae-supplemented broilers compared to heat-stressed broilers (P < 0.05). The ileal villus height to crypt depth ratio was improved in microalgae-supplemented broilers (P < 0.05). In addition, microbial alpha, and beta diversities were higher in the HS+MAG group compared to the HS group (P < 0.05). There was an increase in volatile fatty acid-producing bacteria at the genus level, such as Ruminococcus, Ocillospira, Lactobacillus, Oscillobacter, Flavonifractor, and Colidextribacter in the group that received microalgae supplementation. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of microalgae improved the growth performances of heat-stressed broilers by improving their physiogenomics. Thus, the dietary inclusion of microalgae can potentially mitigate heat stress in broilers.

Cardioprotective properties of quercetin in fescue toxicosis-induced cardiotoxicity via heart-gut axis in lambs (Ovis Aries)

The present study investigated whether quercetin mitigated fescue toxicosis-induced cardiovascular injury via the heart-gut axis. Twenty-four commercial Dorper lambs were stratified by body weight and assigned randomly to diets in one of four groups: endophyte-free without quercetin (E-,Q-), endophyte-positive without quercetin (E+,Q-), endophyte-positive plus 4 g/kg quercetin (E+,Q+) or endophyte-free plus 4 g/kg quercetin (E-,Q+) for 42 days. Body weight and average daily feed intake (ADFI) of lambs fed the endophyte-positive diets showed significant decreases. However, in the groups treated with quercetin, there were significant alterations of cardiac enzymes. Furthermore, reduced fescue toxicosis-induced histopathological lesions of heart and aorta were demonstrated in the E+,Q+ lambs. Results also suggested quercetin eased cardiovascular oxidative injury by inhibiting the increase of oxidative metabolites, and enhancing the levels of antioxidases. Quercetin reduced the inflammation response through suppressing NF-κB signaling pathway activation. Additionally, quercetin ameliorated fescue toxicosis-induced mitochondria dysfunction and improved mitochondrial quality control through enhancing PGC-1α-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis, maintaining the mitochondrial dynamics, and relieving aberrant Parkin/PINK-mediated mitophagy. Quercetin enhanced gastrointestinal microbial alpha and beta diversity, alleviated gut microbiota and microbiome derived metabolites-SCFAs dysbiosis by fescue toxicosis. These findings signified that quercetin may play a cardio-protective role via regulating the heart-gut microbiome axis.

Structural characterization and anti-osteoporosis effects of polysaccharide purified from Eucommia ulmoides Oliver cortex based on its modulation on bone metabolism

EuOCP3, with a molecular weight of 38.1 kDa, is an acidic polysaccharide purified from Eucommia ulmoides Oliver cortex. Herein, we determined that the main backbone of EuOCP3 was predominantly composed of →4)-α-GalpA-(1 → 4)-α-GalpA-(1→, →4)-α-GalpA-(1 → 5)-α-Araf-(1→, →4)-α-GalpA-(1 → 2)-α-Rhap-(1→, and →4)-α-GalpA-(1 → 5)-α-Araf-(1 → 2)-α-Rhap-(1 → repeating blocks, which were connected by →2,3,5)-α-Araf-(1→. The side chains, substituted at C-2 and C-5 of →2,3,5)-α-Araf-(1→, contained T-β-Araf→ and T-β-Araf → 4)-α-GalpA-(1 → residues. In dexamethasone (Dex)-induced osteoporosis (OP) mice, EuOCP3 treatment restored cortical bone thickness, increased mineralized bone area, enhanced the number of osteoblasts, and decreased the number of osteoclasts on the surface of cortical bone. Combining analysis of gut microflora, serum metabolite profiles, and biological detection results, we demonstrated that EuOCP3 regulated the abundance of specific species within the gut microflora, such as g_Dorea and g_Prevotella, and ameliorated oxidative stress. In turn, enhancement of osteogenic function and restoration of bone metabolism via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway was indicated. The current findings contribute to understanding the potential of EuOCP3 in anti-OP treatment.

Exploring body weight-influencing gut microbiota by elucidating the association with diet and host gene expression

We aimed to identify gut microbiota that influences body weight by elucidating the association with diets and host genes. Germ-free (GF) mice with and without fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) were fed a normal, high-carbohydrate, or high-fat diet. FMT mice exhibited greater total body weight; adipose tissue and liver weights; blood glucose, insulin, and total cholesterol levels; and oil droplet size than the GF mice, regardless of diet. However, the extent of weight gain and metabolic parameter levels associated with gut microbiota depended on the nutrients ingested. For example, a disaccharide- or polysaccharide-rich diet caused more weight gain than a monosaccharide-rich diet. An unsaturated fatty acid-rich diet had a greater microbial insulin-increasing effect than a saturated fatty acid-rich diet. Perhaps the difference in microbial metabolites produced from substances taken up by the host created metabolic differences. Therefore, we analyzed such dietary influences on gut microbiota, differentially expressed genes between GF and FMT mice, and metabolic factors, including body weight. The results revealed a correlation between increased weight gain, a fat-rich diet, increased Ruminococcaceae abundance, and decreased claudin 22 gene expression. These findings suggest that weight regulation might be possible through the manipulation of the gut microbiota metabolism using the host's diet.

Crosstalk between Gut Microbiota and Epigenetic Markers in Obesity Development: Relationship between Ruminococcus, BMI, and MACROD2/SEL1L2 Methylation

Changes in gut microbiota composition and in epigenetic mechanisms have been proposed to play important roles in energy homeostasis, and the onset and development of obesity. However, the crosstalk between epigenetic markers and the gut microbiome in obesity remains unclear. The main objective of this study was to establish a link between the gut microbiota and DNA methylation patterns in subjects with obesity by identifying differentially methylated DNA regions (DMRs) that could be potentially regulated by the gut microbiota. DNA methylation and bacterial DNA sequencing analysis were performed on 342 subjects with a BMI between 18 and 40 kg/m². DNA methylation analyses identified a total of 2648 DMRs associated with BMI, while ten bacterial genera were associated with BMI. Interestingly, only the abundance of Ruminococcus was associated with one BMI-related DMR, which is located between the MACROD2/SEL1L2 genes. The Ruminococcus abundance negatively correlated with BMI, while the hypermethylated DMR was associated with reduced MACROD2 protein levels in serum. Additionally, the mediation test showed that 19% of the effect of Ruminococcus abundance on BMI is mediated by the methylation of the MACROD2/SEL1L2 DMR. These findings support the hypothesis that a crosstalk between gut microbiota and epigenetic markers may be contributing to obesity development.

Modulation of gut microbiota: The effects of a fruits and vegetables supplement

The consumption of an optimal amount of fruits and vegetables is known to improve physical fitness and physiological body functions. Healthy eating habits, including intake of fruits and vegetables, can modify gut microbiota. This study aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness of a formulated fruit and vegetable supplement (FVS) in modulating the antioxidant capacity and the gut microbiota composition. We enrolled 30 healthy volunteer subjects, matched for age, gender, BMI, and smoking habits, and randomized them into the FVS and the placebo (PLA) groups. Among the serum vitamins, the folic acid level was significantly higher (p = 0.001) in the FVS group than in the PLA group, whereas the vitamin B2 level was significantly higher in the PLA group than in the FVS group (p = 0.028). The antioxidant capacity, measured by using the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) method, was also slightly higher in the FVS group than in the PLA group but did not reach statistical significance. The dietary intake, assessed by 24-h recalls, did not show any significant changes after the supplementation in both the groups. The gut microbiome composition, measured by 16S rDNA sequencing, showed no difference in both alpha and beta diversities, whereas the LEfse analysis revealed a microbial shift after the treatment, with a decreased abundance of the genus Ruminococcus from the Lachnospiraceae family (p = 0.009), and the unclassified genus from the family Erysipelotrichaceae (UC36, p = 0.003) in the FVS group compared with the PLA group (confirmed by SIAMCAT analysis, AUC = 74.1%). With a minor effect, the genus Faecalibacterium and unclassified genus and family from the order Lactobacillales (UC31) were also increased in the FVS group compared with the PLA group (p = 0.0474, p = 0.0352, respectively). SCFA measurement by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry showed an increased level of 2-methylbutyrate in the FVS group compared with the PLA group (p = 0.0385). Finally, the Spearman correlation analysis showed that in the FVS group, the genus Faecalibacterium positively correlated with 2-methyl butyrate (p = 0.040). In the PLA group, none of the significant bacteria correlated with either SCFA or serum biomarkers. The network analysis confirmed the positive correlation between genus Faecalibacterium and 2-methyl butyrate. We can conclude that the FVS in healthy individuals modified the gut microbiota composition and metabolites, and it can potentially contribute to reduce the pro-inflammatory response along with the antioxidant capacity.