Bifidobacterium adolescentis Exerts Strain-Specific Effects on Constipation Induced by Loperamide in BALB/c Mice

Effects of exoskeleton-assisted walking on bowel function in motor-complete spinal cord injury patients: involvement of the brain-gut axis, a pilot study

Evidence has demonstrated that exoskeleton robots can improve intestinal function in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the underlying mechanisms remain unelucidated. This study investigated the effects of exoskeleton-assisted walking (EAW) on intestinal function and intestinal flora structure in T2-L1 motor complete paraplegia patients. The results showed that five participants in the EAW group and three in the conventional group reported improvements in at least one bowel management index, including an increased frequency of bowel evacuations, less time spent on bowel management per day, and less external assistance (manual digital stimulation, medication, and enema usage). After 8 weeks of training, the amount of glycerol used in the EAW group decreased significantly (p <0.05). The EAW group showed an increasing trend in the neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) score after 8 weeks of training, while the conventional group showed a worsening trend. Patients who received the EAW intervention exhibited a decreased abundance of Bacteroidetes and Verrucomicrobia, while Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria were upregulated. In addition, there were decreases in the abundances of Bacteroides, Prevotella, Parabacteroides, Akkermansia, Blautia, Ruminococcus 2, and Megamonas. In contrast, Ruminococcus 1, Ruminococcaceae UCG002, Faecalibacterium, Dialister, Ralstonia, Escherichia-Shigella, and Bifidobacterium showed upregulation among the top 15 genera. The abundance of Ralstonia was significantly higher in the EAW group than in the conventional group, and Dialister increased significantly in EAW individuals at 8 weeks. This study suggests that EAW can improve intestinal function of SCI patients in a limited way, and may be associated with changes in the abundance of intestinal flora, especially an increase in beneficial bacteria. In the future, we need to further understand the changes in microbial groups caused by EAW training and all related impact mechanisms, especially intestinal flora metabolites. Clinical trial registration: https://www.chictr.org.cn/.

Considering traditional Chinese medicine as adjunct therapy in the management of chronic constipation by regulating intestinal flora

Chronic constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders worldwide. Due to changes in diet, lifestyle, and the aging population, the incidence of chronic constipation has increased year by year. It has had an impact on daily life and poses a considerable economic burden. Nowadays, many patients with chronic constipation try to seek help from complementary and alternative therapies, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is often their choice. The intestinal flora play an important role in the pathogenesis of constipation by affecting the body's metabolism, secretion, and immunity. Regulating the intestinal flora and optimizing its composition might become an important prevention and treatment for chronic constipation. TCM has unique advantages in regulating the imbalance of intestinal flora, and its curative effect is precise. Therefore, we reviewed the relationship between intestinal flora and chronic constipation as well as advances in research on TCM as adjunct therapy in the management of chronic constipation by regulating intestinal flora. Some single Chinese herbs and their active ingredients (e.g., Rheum palmatum, Radix Astragalus, and Cistanche deserticola), some traditional herbal formulations (e.g., Jichuan decoction, Zengye decoction, and Zhizhu decoction) and some Chinese patent medicines (e.g., Maren pills and Shouhui Tongbian capsules) that are commonly used to treat chronic constipation by regulating intestinal flora are highlighted and summarized. Moreover, some external forms of TCM, and especially acupuncture, have also been found to improve intestinal movement and alleviate constipation symptoms by regulating intestinal flora. We hope this review can contribute to an understanding of TCM as an adjunct therapy for chronic constipation and that it can provide useful information for the development of more effective constipation therapies.

Gastrointestinal Characteristics of Constipation from the Perspectives of Microbiome and Metabolome

BACKGROUND

Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints. Yet, the underlying mechanisms of constipation remain to be explored deeply. Integration of microbiome and metabolome is powerful and promising to demonstrate characteristics of constipation.

AIM OF STUDY

This study aimed to characterize intestinal microbiome and metabolome of constipation. In addition, this study revealed the correlations among behaviors, intestinal microbiota, and metabolites interrupted by constipation.

METHODS

Firstly, the constipation model was successfully applied. At the macro level, the ability of learning, memory, locomotor activity, and the defecation index of rats with constipation-like phenotype were characterized. At the micro-level, 16S rRNA sequencing was applied to analyze the intestinal microbiota in rats with constipation-like phenotype. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics was employed to investigate the metabolic phenotype of constipation. In addition, we constructed a correlation network, intuitively showing the correlations among behaviors, intestinal microbiota, and metabolites.

RESULTS

Constipation significantly attenuated the locomotor activity, memory recognition, and frequency of defecation of rats, while increased the time of defecation. Constipation significantly changed the diversity of intestinal microbial communities, which correspondingly involved in 5 functional pathways. Besides, 28 fecal metabolites were found to be associated with constipation, among which 14 metabolites were further screened that can be used to diagnose constipation. On top of this, associated networks intuitively showed the correlations among behaviors, intestinal microbiota, and metabolites.

CONCLUSIONS

The current findings are significant in terms of not only laying a foundation for understanding characteristics of constipation, but also providing accurate diagnosis and treatments of constipation clinically.

Investigation of supplementation with a combination of fermented bean dregs and wheat bran for improving the growth performance of the sow

To investigate the effect of dietary supplementation with a fermented mixture of bean dregs and wheat bran (FBW) on sow performance. FBW was given to sows during late gestation and lactation; in total, 24 sows were randomly assigned to 4 groups (control diet; 3% FBW diet; 6% FBW diet; 9% FBW diet, n = 6). The weight ratio of bean dregs (wet) to wheat bran was 4:6. Sows were fed different diets from 85 d of gestation until weaning. The results showed that supplementation with FBW increased average daily feed intake (ADFI) during lactation (p < 0.05). FBW supplementation also increased litter weight and milk yield (p < 0.05). The contents of Escherichia coli in the feces of the treatment groups were significantly reduced by FBW supplementation (p < 0.01). FBW supplementation significantly improved the fecal morphology (p < 0.05), alleviating sows' constipation. In conclusion, FBW could increase the ADFI, improve lactation and piglet litter weight in sows and reduce the pathogenic bacterial content in sow feces and constipation.

Prevalence, types, and risk factors of functional gastrointestinal diseases in Hainan Province, China

To investigate the prevalence, types, and risk factors of functional gastrointestinal diseases (FGIDs) in Hainan Province, China, in order to provide insights for future prevention and treatment strategies. A questionnaire survey was conducted from July 2022 to May 2023, using stratified sampling to sample local residents in five cities (20 townships) in Hainan Province. Out of 2057 local residents surveyed, 659 individuals (32.0%) reported experiencing at least one FGID. The most prevalent FGIDs were functional dyspepsia (FD) (10.7%), functional constipation (FC) (9.3%), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (6.8%), functional bloating (2.2%), belching disorder (2.2%), functional diarrhea (FDr) (1.5%), functional heartburn (1.5%), and fecal incontinence (0.98%). The study revealed significant associations between FGIDs and factors such as age, sleep quality, anxiety, smoking, alcohol consumption, and the consumption of pickled food (P < 0.05). Older age, poor sleep quality, anxiety, and the consumption of pickled food were identified as independent risk factors for the prevalence of FGIDs (P < 0.05). In Hainan Province, the overall prevalence of FGIDs was found to be 32.0%, with higher prevalences of FC and FD. Older age, poor sleep quality, anxiety, and the consumption of pickled food were identified as risk factors for FGIDs.

Effect of the initial pH of the culture medium on the nutrient consumption pattern of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Bb12 and the improvement of acid resistance by purine and pyrimidine compounds

AIMS

During fermentation, the accumulation of acidic products can induce media acidification, which restrains the growth of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Bb12 (Bb12). This study investigated the nutrient consumption patterns of Bb12 under acid stress and effects of specific nutrients on the acid resistance of Bb12.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Bb12 was cultured in chemically defined medium (CDM) at different initial pH values. Nutrient consumption patterns were analyzed in CDM at pH 5.3, 5.7, and 6.7. The patterns varied with pH: Asp + Asn had the highest consumption rate at pH 5.3 and 5.7, while Ala was predominant at pH 6.7. Regardless of the pH levels (5.3, 5.7, or 6.7), ascorbic acid, adenine, and Fe2+ were vitamins, nucleobases, and metal ions with the highest consumption rates, respectively. Nutrients whose consumption rates exceeded 50% were added individually in CDM at pH 5.3, 5.7, and 6.7. It was demonstrated that only some of them could promote the growth of Bb12. Mixed nutrients that could promote the growth of Bb12 were added to three different CDM. In CDM at pH 5.3, 5.7, and 6.7, it was found that the viable cell count of Bb12 was the highest after adding mixed nutrients, which were 8.87, 9.02, and 9.10 log CFU ml-1, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that the initial pH of the culture medium affects the nutrient consumption patterns of Bb12. Specific nutrients can enhance the growth of Bb12 under acidic conditions and increase its acid resistance.

Xiao Cheng Qi Decoction, an Ancient Chinese Herbal Mixture, Relieves Loperamide-Induced Slow-Transit Constipation in Mice: An Action Mediated by Gut Microbiota

Xiao Cheng Qi (XCQ) decoction, an ancient Chinese herbal mixture, has been used in treating slow-transit constipation (STC) for years. The underlying action mechanism in relieving the clinical symptoms is unclear. Several lines of evidence point to a strong link between constipation and gut microbiota. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and microbial metabolites have been shown to affect 5-HT synthesis by activating the GPR43 receptor localized on intestinal enterochromaffin cells, since 5-HT receptors are known to influence colonic peristalsis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of XCQ in alleviating clinical symptoms in a mouse model of STC induced by loperamide. The application of loperamide leads to a decrease in intestinal transport and fecal water, which is used to establish the animal model of STC. In addition, the relationship between constipation and gut microbiota was determined. The herbal materials, composed of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma (Rhizomes of Rheum palmatum L., Polygonaceae) 55.2 g, Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex (Barks of Magnolia officinalis Rehd. et Wils, Magnoliaceae) 27.6 g, and Aurantii Fructus Immaturus (Fruitlet of Citrus aurantium L., Rutaceae) 36.0 g, were extracted with water to prepare the XCQ decoction. The constipated mice were induced with loperamide (10 mg/kg/day), and then treated with an oral dose of XCQ herbal extract (2.0, 4.0, and 8.0 g/kg/day) two times a day. Mosapride was administered as a positive drug. In loperamide-induced STC mice, the therapeutic parameters of XCQ-treated mice were determined, i.e., (i) symptoms of constipation, composition of gut microbiota, and amount of short-chain fatty acids in feces; (ii) plasma level of 5-HT; and (iii) expressions of the GPR43 and 5-HT4 receptor in colon. XCQ ameliorated the constipation symptoms of loperamide-induced STC mice. In gut microbiota, the treatment of XCQ in STC mice increased the relative abundances of Lactobacillus, Prevotellaceae_UCG_001, Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group, Muribaculaceae, and Roseburia in feces and decreased the relative abundances of Desulfovibrio, Tuzzerella, and Lachnospiraceae_ NK4A136_group. The levels of SCFAs in stools from the STC group were significantly lower than those the control group, and were greatly elevated via treatment with XCQ. Compared with the STC group, XCQ increased the plasma level of 5-HT and the colonic expressions of the GPR43 and 5-HT4 receptor, significantly. The underlying mechanism of XCQ in anti-constipation could be related to the modulation of gut microbiota, the increase in SCFAs, the increase in plasma 5-HT, and the colonic expressions of the GPR43 and 5-HT4 receptor. Our results indicate that XCQ is a potent natural product that could be a therapeutic strategy for constipation.

Probiotic potential of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus VHProbi M15 on sucralfate-induced constipation in mice

The main objective of this study was to investigate the potential probiotic properties of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus VHProbi®M15 (M15). This study examined the effects of M15 on sucralfate-induced constipation in a mouse model. The BALB/c mice were randomly divided into four groups: the normal group (NOR) was without any treatment, while the constipation (CON), phenolphthalein (PHE), and probiotic (PRO) treatment groups were fed with sucralfate until the appearance of constipation symptoms. Afterward, the NOR and CON groups were given 1 ml saline orally every day until the end of the experiment; the PHE and PRO groups were given phenolphthalein or M15 suspension in 1 ml orally, respectively. Compared with the CON group, the fecal water content and intestinal peristalsis improved in the PRO group. Here, intake of M15 effectively attenuated sucralfate-induced constipation, recuperated colonic epithelial integrity, and increased serum levels of gastrointestinal excitatory neurotransmitters (motilin, gastrin, substance P). Analysis of the intestinal microbiota of mice by 16S rRNA metagenomic revealed an increase in the relative abundance of Bacteroides and a decrease in Sclerotinia, Verrucosa and Proteus in the PRO group. Compared with the CON group, the constipation-induced intestinal microecological changes were partially recovered in the PHE and PRO groups. These results demonstrate that M15 enhanced gastrointestinal transit and alleviated in mice with sucralfate-induced constipation.

A key genetic factor governing arabinan utilization in the gut microbiome alleviates constipation

Impaired gastrointestinal motility is associated with gut dysbiosis. Probiotics, such as Bifidobacteria, can improve this bowel disorder; however, efficacy is strain-dependent. We determine that a genetic factor, the abfA cluster governing arabinan utilization, in Bifidobacterium longum impacts treatment efficacy against functional constipation (FC). In mice with FC, B. longum, but not an abfA mutant, improved gastrointestinal transit time, an affect that was dependent upon dietary arabinan. abfA genes were identified in other commensal bacteria, whose effects in ameliorating murine FC were similarly abfA-dependent. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, supplementation with abfA-cluster-carrying B. longum, but not an abfA-deficient strain, enriched arabinan-utilization residents, increased beneficial metabolites, and improved FC symptoms. Across human cohorts, abfA-cluster abundance can predict FC, and transplantation of abfA cluster-enriched human microbiota to FC-induced germ-free mice improved gut motility. Collectively, these findings demonstrate a role for microbial abfA cluster in ameliorating FC, establishing principles for genomics-directed probiotic therapies.

Lactobacillus paracasei Relieves Constipation by Acting on the Acetic Acid-5-HT-Intestinal Motility Pathway

Constipation is a major health concern worldwide and requires effective and safe treatment options. In this study, we selected ten strains of two species of lactobacilli to identify whether they were effective against constipation induced by loperamide administration in BALB/c mice. Monitoring of constipation-related indicators indicated that Lactobacillus paracasei (L. paracasei) mainly acted on the whole intestinal peristalsis to relieve constipation. Furthermore, through the detection of biological, chemical, mechanical, and immune barriers in mice, it was discovered that L. paracasei changed the relative abundance of bacteria related to the levels of acetic acid and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) (such as by increasing the relative abundance of Odoribacter and Clostridium, and reducing the relative abundance of Mucispirillum, Ruminococcus, Coprobacillus, and Dorea), increased the concentration of acetic acid in the intestine, which stimulated enterochromaffin cells, promoted 5-HT synthesis in the colon, enhanced intestinal motility, and relieved constipation. In conclusion, this study provides a theoretical foundation for the development of personalized products for the treatment of constipation.

Leuconostoc mesenteroides WHH1141 ameliorates ovalbumin-induced food allergy in mice

Food allergy (FA) is acknowledged as a significant public health and food safety issue, due to its manifestation as an amplified immune reaction to food antigens. Recently, probiotics within Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium have been highlighted as a promising strategy against allergic disease by modulating the balance of Th1/Th2 responses. However, the allergy-alleviating effects of probiotic Leuconostoc mesenteroides strains are unknown. Therefore, this study investigated the potentials of eleven L. mesenteroides strains on the Th1/Th2 balance in vitro by evaluating the expression patterns of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) (Th1 cytokine) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) (Th2 cytokine) in mesenteric lymph node-derived lymphocytes from ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized mice. Among strains, WHH1141 incubation caused the highest IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio. Oral administration of WHH1141 (1 × 109  CFU/mL) in the OVA-induced FA mouse model for 40 days improved the weight loss and FA pathological symptoms and normalized the serum immunoglobulin E levels. Meanwhile, the OVA-induced elevated gene expressions of cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) and tight-junction proteins (ZO-1 and Occludin) and levels of cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) and histamine in the jejunum were restored by WHH1141. Furthermore, WHH1141 reversed the reduced gut microbial diversity and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels, specifically increased Bacteroidota abundance, and decreased Firmicutes abundance in OVA-induced mice. Overall, these findings suggest that WHH1141 exerts FA-alleviating effects on OVA-induced mice, which is involved with the inhibition of the jejunal Th2 immune responses and the modulation of gut microbiome composition and SCFA productions. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Leuconostoc mesenteroides WHH1141 with FA-alleviating potentials may be considered a promising approach in the mitigation of FA symptoms.

Multi-strain probiotics alleviate loperamide-induced constipation by adjusting the microbiome, serotonin, and short-chain fatty acids in rats

Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal (GI) disorders worldwide. The use of probiotics to improve constipation is well known. In this study, the effect on loperamide-induced constipation by intragastric administration of probiotics Consti-Biome mixed with SynBalance® SmilinGut (Lactobacillus plantarum PBS067, Lactobacillus rhamnosus LRH020, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BL050; Roelmi HPC), L. plantarum UALp-05 (Chr. Hansen), Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1 (Chr. Hansen), and Streptococcus thermophilus CKDB027 (Chong Kun Dang Bio) to rats was evaluated. To induce constipation, 5 mg/kg loperamide was intraperitoneally administered twice a day for 7 days to all groups except the normal control group. After inducing constipation, Dulcolax-S tablets and multi-strain probiotics Consti-Biome were orally administered once a day for 14 days. The probiotics were administered 0.5 mL at concentrations of 2 × 10⁸ CFU/mL (G1), 2 × 10⁹ CFU/mL (G2), and 2 × 10¹⁰ CFU/mL (G3). Compared to the loperamide administration group (LOP), the multi-strain probiotics not only significantly increased the number of fecal pellets but also improved the GI transit rate. The mRNA expression levels of serotonin- and mucin-related genes in the colons that were treated with the probiotics were also significantly increased compared to levels in the LOP group. In addition, an increase in serotonin was observed in the colon. The cecum metabolites showed a different pattern between the probiotics-treated groups and the LOP group, and an increase in short-chain fatty acids was observed in the probiotic-treated groups. The abundances of the phylum Verrucomicrobia, the family Erysipelotrichaceae and the genus Akkermansia were increased in fecal samples of the probiotic-treated groups. Therefore, the multi-strain probiotics used in this experiment were thought to help alleviate LOP-induced constipation by altering the levels of short-chain fatty acids, serotonin, and mucin through improvement in the intestinal microflora.

Untargeted mass spectrometry-based metabolomics approach unveils biochemical changes in compound probiotic fermented milk during fermentation

Probiotic functional products have drawn wide attention because of their increasing popularity. However, few studies have analyzed probiotic-specific metabolism in the fermentation process. This study applied UPLC-QE-MS-based metabolomics to track changes in the milk metabolomes in the course of fermentation by two probiotic strains, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei PC-01 and Bifidobacterium adolescentis B8589. We observed substantial changes in the probiotic fermented milk metabolome between 0 and 36 h of fermentation, and the differences between the milk metabolomes at the interim period (36 h and 60 h) and the ripening stage (60 h and 72 h) were less obvious. A number of time point-specific differential metabolites were identified, mainly belonging to organic acids, amino acids, and fatty acids. Nine of the identified differential metabolites are linked to the tricarboxylic acid cycle, glutamate metabolism, and fatty acid metabolism. The contents of pyruvic acid, γ-aminobutyric acid, and capric acid increased at the end of fermentation, which can contribute to the nutritional quality and functional properties of the probiotic fermented milk. This time-course metabolomics study analyzed probiotic-specific fermentative changes in milk, providing detailed information of probiotic metabolism in a milk matrix and the potential beneficial mechanism of probiotic fermented milk.

Integrating omics and network pharmacology reveals the anti-constipation role of chitosan with different molecular weights in constipated mice

This study aimed to reveal the constipation-relieving role of chitosan (COS) with different molecular weights (1 kDa, 3 kDa and 244 kDa). Compared with COS3K (3 kDa) and COS240K (244 kDa), COS1K (1 kDa) more significantly accelerated gastrointestinal transit and defecation frequency. These differential effects were reflected in the regulation of specific gut microbiota (Desulfovibrio, Bacteroides, Parabacteroides and Anaerovorax) and short-chain fatty acids (propionic acid, butyric acid and valeric acid). RNA-sequencing found that the differential expressed genes (DEGs) caused by different molecular weights of COS were mainly enriched in intestinal immune-related pathways, especially cell adhesion molecules. Furthermore, network pharmacology revealed two candidate genes (Clu and Igf2), which can be regarded as the key molecules for the differential anti-constipation effects of COS with different molecular weights. These results were further verified by qPCR. In conclusion, our results provide a novel research strategy to help understand the differences in the anti-constipation effects of chitosan with different molecular weights.

Study on Anti-Constipation Effects of Hemerocallis citrina Baroni through a Novel Strategy of Network Pharmacology Screening

Daylily (Hemerocallis citrina Baroni) is an edible plant widely distributed worldwide, especially in Asia. It has traditionally been considered a potential anti-constipation vegetable. This study aimed to investigate the anti-constipation effects of daylily from the perspective of gastro-intestinal transit, defecation parameters, short-chain organic acids, gut microbiome, transcriptomes and network pharmacology. The results show that dried daylily (DHC) intake accelerated the defecation frequency of mice, while it did not significantly alter the levels of short-chain organic acids in the cecum. The 16S rRNA sequencing showed that DHC elevated the abundance of Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium and Flavonifractor, while it reduced the level of pathogens (such as Helicobacter and Vibrio). Furthermore, a transcriptomics analysis revealed 736 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) after DHC treatment, which are mainly enriched in the olfactory transduction pathway. The integration of transcriptomes and network pharmacology revealed seven overlapping targets (Alb, Drd2, Igf2, Pon1, Tshr, Mc2r and Nalcn). A qPCR analysis further showed that DHC reduced the expression of Alb, Pon1 and Cnr1 in the colon of constipated mice. Our findings provide a novel insight into the anti-constipation effects of DHC.

In Vitro Digestion and Fecal Fermentation of Low-Gluten Rice and Its Effect on the Gut Microbiota

Low-gluten rice is part of a special diet for chronic kidney disease patients, but its digestive mechanism in the gastrointestinal tract is unclear. In this study, low-gluten rice (LGR), common rice (CR), and rice starch (RS) were used as experimental samples, and their digestion and bacterial fermentation were simulated using an in vitro gastrointestinal reactor to investigate the mechanism of the effect of LGR on human health. The starch digestibility of CR was higher than that of LGR, with statistically significant differences. LGR has growth-promoting and metabolic effects on Akkermansia muciniphila. Among the beneficial metabolites, the concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) from LGR reached 104.85 mmol/L, an increase of 44.94% (versus RS) and 25.33% (versus CR). Moreover, the concentration of lactic acid reached 18.19 mmol/L, an increase of 60.55% (versus RS) and 25.28% (versus CR). Among the harmful metabolites, the concentration of branched-chain fatty acids (BCFAs) in LGR was 0.29 mmol/L and the concentration of ammonia was 2.60 mmol/L, which was 79.31% and 16.15% lower than CR, respectively. A significant increase in the concentration of the beneficial intestinal bacteria Bacteroides and Bifidobacterium occurred from LGR. The 16s rDNA sequencing showed that the abundance of the Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes increased and the abundance of the Proteobacteria and Fusobacteria decreased. Thus, LGR has positive effects on digestion and gut microbiota structure and metabolism in humans.

Bifidobacterium bifidum FJSWX19M5 alleviated 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced chronic colitis by mitigating gut barrier injury and increasing regulatory T cells

Probiotics have been evaluated as alternative approaches for preventing the relapse of Crohn's disease (CD). Previously, we observed strain-specific anti-inflammatory properties of Bifidobacterium bifidum in 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) acute colitis models. In this study, we further assessed the effects of several B. bifidum strains on colonic damage, fibrosis, inflammatory factors, intestinal microbial and metabolic profiles, and peripheral regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the context of TNBS chronic colitis in mice. These results indicated that B. bifidum FJSWX19M5, but not FXJWS17M4, ameliorated body weight loss, reduced colonic shortening and injury, decreased markers of gut inflammation, and rebalanced colonic metabolism in TNBS-treated mice. FJSWX19M5 supplementation also promoted Treg cell differentiation and intestinal barrier restoration compared to other strains. All living B. bifidum strains (FJSWX19M5, FXJWS17M4 and FHENJZ3M6) seemed to restore the disruption of the gut microbiota caused by TNBS. The co-culture of B. bifidum strains and mesenteric lymph node cells from TNBS-treated mice showed that those strains with anti-colitis could induce higher IL-10 levels and a lower ratio of IL-22/IL-10 and IL-17/IL-10 when compared to those strains that were not protective. Furthermore, heat-killed FJSWX19M5 exhibited a relief effect on colitis-related symptoms (including body weight loss, colonic shortening and injury). These data imply that specific B. bifidum strains or their lysates may be the current therapeutic alternatives for CD.

Probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics in chronic constipation: Outstanding aspects to be considered for the current evidence

This integrative aimed to evaluate the effects and the potential mechanism of action of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics on constipation-associated gastrointestinal symptoms and to identify issues that still need to be answered. A literature search was performed in the PubMed database. Animal models (n = 23) and clinical trials (n = 39) were included. In animal studies, prebiotic, probiotic, and synbiotic supplementation showed a decreased colonic transit time (CTT) and an increase in the number and water content of feces. In humans, inulin is shown to be the most promising prebiotic, while B. lactis and L. casei Shirota probiotics were shown to increase defecation frequency, the latter strain being more effective in improving stool consistency and constipation symptoms. Overall, synbiotics seem to reduce CTT, increase defecation frequency, and improve stool consistency with a controversial effect on the improvement of constipation symptoms. Moreover, some aspects of probiotic use in constipation-related outcomes remain unanswered, such as the best dose, duration, time of consumption (before, during, or after meals), and matrices, as well as their effect and mechanisms on the regulation of inflammation in patients with constipation, on polymorphisms associated with constipation, and on the management of constipation via 5-HT. Thus, more high-quality randomized control trials (RCTs) evaluating these lacking aspects are necessary to provide safe conclusions about their effectiveness in managing intestinal constipation.

Positive effect of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis VHProbi YB11 in improving gastrointestinal movement of mice having constipation

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis VHProbi® YB11 (YB11) on attenuating sucralfate-induced constipation in BALB/c mice. The strain of YB11 exhibited favorable tolerance of simulated gastrointestinal (GI) juice. Only 0.42 Log value declined when the live cells of YB11 were co-incubated with simulated GI juice. Meanwhile, this strain also displayed perfect ability to adhere the intestinal epithelium Caco-2 cells with adhesion index of 18.5. 24 of female mice were randomized into four groups.

METHODS

The normal group (NOR) was fed with a normal diet, whereas the placebo group (PLA), positive group (POS), and probiotic group (PRO) were fed with sucralfate to induce constipation. After first successfully establishing the constipation model, groups NOR and PLA received the oral administration of saline solutions. Meanwhile, the POS and PRO groups were orally administered phenolphthalein and YB11 suspensions, respectively. Several indices, including fecal water content, GI transit time, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), intestinal neuropeptides level, and histopathology of colonic tissues, were investigated.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Compared with PLA, YB11 had a positive effect in increasing the fecal water content and intestinal peristalsis. Some positive trends, including the acetic and total acids level of fecal samples, and the colonic tissue histopathology, were also observed. Furthermore, YB11 had an ability to upregulate the levels of gut excitatory neuropeptides including motilin, gastrin, and substance P, whereas it downregulated the levels of inhibitory neuropeptides including endothelin-1, somatostatin, and vasoactive intestinal peptide. We conclude that the strain YB11 has a positive impact on improving gastrointestinal mobility and reducing the severity of constipation.

In vivo functional effects of Weissella confusa VP30 exopolysaccharides on loperamide-induced constipation in rats

In this work, the in vivo functionalities of milk fermented with Weissella confusa VP30 (VP30-EPS) and purified exopolysaccharide (pEPS) from the milk fermented with Weissella confusa VP30 were evaluated for their effect on constipation using an experimental constipated rat model. Rats were randomly divided into four groups: (i) control group (PBS administered normal group), (ii) loperamide treated group (constipation group), (iii) constipation with loperamide plus VP30-EPS (1 g/kg), and (iv) constipation with loperamide plus pEPS (0.6 g/kg) groups. Loperamide treatment induced animal constipation and significantly reduced the frequency of defecation, intestinal transit ratio, and water content of feces. However, all four fecal parameters were improved in both the loperamide plus VP30-EPS and pEPS administered groups as compared to the loperamide group. These results suggest that the addition of VP30-EPS potentially improves the functional laxative effects of commercial products. This study suggests the possibility that VP30-EPS can be applied to fermented and/or functional foods to relieve constipation.

Chinese patent medicine shouhui tongbian capsule attenuated loperamide-induced constipation through modulating the gut microbiota in rat

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Shouhui tongbian capsule (SHTC) is a commercial Chinese patent medicine used in the treatment of constipation. However, its mechanism of action remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was undertaken to assess SHTC relieved effects on the clinical symptoms of loperamide (LOP) induced constipation in Sprague Dawley (SD) rat model and to clarify the relationship between the protective effect of SHTC on constipation and the gut microbiota.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Constipation male SD rats models were induced with solution of LOP (1.5 mg/kg bw), and rats were treated with an oral dose of SHTC (35, 70 mg/kg bw) three times a day after successful modeling. All rats were assessed weekly by change in body weight, gastric emptying rate, fecal moisture content and wet/dry weight. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) were used to observe parts of the rats small intestine. The gut microbiota in colonic contents was analyzed using 16SrRNA gene sequencing. Contents of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GCMS).

RESULTS

The results confirmed the therapeutic effects of SHTC on constipation. Specifically, SHTC could alleviate the decrease in body weight, gastric emptying rate and fecal moisture content caused by LOP-induced constipation. The pathological damage of small intestine was significantly improved by H&E staining. Notably, SHTC increased the relative abundances of Lactobacillus and the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroides (F/B). In addition, the content of acetic acid and propionic acid was significantly increased in constipated rats fed with SHTC.

CONCLUSION

SHTC could ameliorate the development of LOP-induced constipation in rats by remodeling the structure of gut microbial community and regulating production of intestinal metabolites.

Prevention of Loperamide-Induced Constipation in Mice and Alteration of 5-Hydroxytryotamine Signaling by Ligilactobacillus salivarius Li01

Although Ligilactobacillus salivarius Li01 (Li01) has shown much promise in preventing multiple gastrointestinal diseases, the potential of the probiotic in alleviating constipation and the related mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, the effects of Li01 were evaluated in a loperamide-induced constipation mouse model. The results demonstrated that Li01 intervention can relieve constipation symptoms by improving water content, quantity, and morphology of feces and act as an intestinal barrier structure protector. Furthermore, Li01 can modulate gut motility (gastrointestinal transit rate), the fluid transit-associated expression of aquaporins, and the serum parameters vasoactive intestinal peptide, substance P, and somatostatin. Constipation significantly increased the levels of 5-hydroxytryotamine (5-HT) in serum (p < 0.01) and decreased the levels in the intestine (p < 0.001). Due to its function of elevating the expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 1, this was reversed after Li01 treatment. Li01 also promoted the expression of 5-HT receptor 3 and 4, indicating that the 5-HT signaling pathway may play a critical role in the mechanism by which Li01 alleviate constipation symptoms. Additionally, Li01 significantly altered the gut microbiota composition by enhancing the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes and increasing the abundance of Rikenellaceae_RC9 genera. Based on the above results, Li01 may have the potential to effectively alleviate constipation by regulating the 5-HT pathway and alteration of the gut microbiota.

Efficacy of Bacillus coagulans BC01 on loperamide hydrochloride-induced constipation model in Kunming mice

In this study, the laxative effect of Bacillus coagulans BC01 (BC01) in mice was investigated using a functional constipation mouse model. Six-week-old male specific pathogen-free (SPF) Kunming mice were randomly divided into five groups: normal control group (saline), model group (loperamide hydrochloride), drug control group (bisacodyl), BC01 low-dose group (4.0 × 10⁸ CFU/mL) and BC01 high-dose group (4.0 × 10⁹ CFU/mL). Except for the normal group, the functional constipation model was established by administering 0.25 mL of a loperamide hydrochloride suspension (1 mg/mL) twice daily for four consecutive days by oral gavage. After modeling, the BC01 groups were administered 0.25 mL of BC01. The bisacodyl served as a control and was administered orally at a dose of 100 mg/kg, while the other groups were administered 0.25 mL of sterile saline. After 7 days of continuous administration, the experimental mice were again induced by loperamide hydrochloride. During this period, the mechanism of BC01 to improve constipation symptoms in mice was analyzed by measuring the changes in body weight, fecal water content, small intestine propulsion rate, histology of small intestinal tissue sections, fecal microbial diversity, serum indices, as well as mRNA and protein expression levels in the small intestinal tissue. BC01 was found to significantly promote the intestinal propulsion rate and increase the fecal water content in the mice. BC01 could also alleviates constipation by regulating gastrointestinal motility (substance P, motilin, endothelin-1, somatostatin, and vasoactive intestinal peptide), gene expression (c-Kit, SCF, COX-2, NF-κB, iNOS, and eNOS), intestinal inflammation (eNOS, iNOS, NF-κB), and the intestinal microbiota composition in the constipated mice. In addition, the high-dose BC01 treatment had the best preventive effect on constipation. BC01 is a probiotic strain to effectively relieve the adverse effects of constipation.

Effect of Bacillus coagulans SNZ 1969 on the Improvement of Bowel Movement in Loperamide-Treated SD Rats

Bacillus coagulans SNZ 1969 (B. coagulans SNZ 1969) is a spore-forming bacterium reported to be effective in attenuating constipation. However, there is no study on whether B. coagulans SNZ 1969 could improve constipation through mucin secretion and changes in intestinal hormones. To address this knowledge gap, rats were orally administrated with various treatments for four weeks. The normal control (NOR) group received saline only. There were four constipation-induced groups. The LOP group received only loperamide (LOP), a constipation-inducing agent. The BIS group received both LOP and Bisacodyl (BIS, a constipation treatment agent). The SNZ-L group received both LOP and B. coagulans SNZ 1969 at 1 × 10⁸ CFU/day. The SNZ-H group received LOP and B.coagulans SNZ 1969 at 1 × 10¹⁰ CFU/day. As indicators of constipation improvement, fecal pellet weight, fecal water content, gastrointestinal transit time, and intestinal motility were measured. Mucus secretion in the colon was determined by histological colon analysis and mucin-related gene expressions. Gastrointestinal (GI) hormones were also measured. SNZ-L and SNZ-H groups showed significantly increased fecal weights, fecal water contents, and intestinal motility than the LOP group. SNZ-L and SNZ-H groups also showed higher secretion of mucin in the colon and mRNA expression levels of Mucin 2 and Aquaporin 8 than the LOP group. The SNZ-H group showed significantly increased substance P but significantly decreased somatostatin and vasoactive intestinal peptide than the LOP group. The results of this study suggest that B. coagulans SNZ 1969 intake could attenuate constipation through mucin secretion and alteration of GI hormones.

Crosstalk between the Gut Microbiome and Colonic Motility in Chronic Constipation: Potential Mechanisms and Microbiota Modulation

Chronic constipation (CC) is a highly prevalent and burdensome gastrointestinal disorder. Accumulating evidence highlights the link between imbalances in the gut microbiome and constipation. However, the mechanisms by which the microbiome and microbial metabolites affect gut movement remain poorly understood. In this review, we discuss recent studies on the alteration in the gut microbiota in patients with CC and the effectiveness of probiotics in treating gut motility disorder. We highlight the mechanisms that explain how the gut microbiome and its metabolism are linked to gut movement and how intestinal microecological interventions may counteract these changes based on the enteric nervous system, the central nervous system, the immune function, and the ability to modify intestinal secretion and the hormonal milieu. In particular, microbiota-based approaches that modulate the levels of short-chain fatty acids and tryptophan catabolites or that target the 5-hydroxytryptamine and Toll-like receptor pathways may hold therapeutic promise. Finally, we discuss the existing limitations of microecological management in treating constipation and suggest feasible directions for future research.

Different effects of Bacillus coagulans vegetative cells and spore isolates on constipation-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis in mice

Bacillus coagulans (B. coagulans) can improve and prevent functional gastrointestinal disorders. However, there has been little discussion in the literature on the difference between spores and vegetative cells for relieving constipation. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of Bacillus coagulans (B. coagulans) vegetative cells and spores against loperamide-induced constipation in mice. According to our findings, B. coagulans vegetative cells and spores differ in their ability to relieve loperamide-induced constipation. Two of the three strains of B. coagulans spores used in this experiment, B. coagulans GBI-30 6086 and B. coagulans 90, were significantly different from the model group in relieving constipation. This mainly manifested as a decreased time required for first black stool defecation (by 52 and 79 min, respectively), and increased counts of the first black stools in 5 h (by 15 and 8, respectively), the small intestine transit rate (by 23.31% and 20.52%, respectively), and the concentration of SCFAs. While the administration of vegetative cells could only relieve some indicators of intestinal transit disorders and dysbacteriosis caused by constipation. Spores of B. coagulans GBI-30 6086 and B. coagulans 90 had higher survival rates in the simulated gastrointestinal tract environment, which indicated that the functional modes of the three strains were different and had a strong relationship with the morphology of the bacteria. B. coagulans GBI-30 6086 and B. coagulans 90 spores alleviate constipation by increasing the abundances of Actinobacteria, Deferribacteres, and Lachnospiraceae UCG-006 (which were positively correlated with SCFAs) and decreasing the abundances of Cyanobateria and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut group (which were negatively correlated with SCFAs) and the levels of Ruminococcaceae UGC-014 and Alistipes. In this study, the effects of probiotics in the form of spore or vegetative cell were compared, and the optimal preparation form was determined, providing a theoretical basis for the application of probiotics of B. coagulans to relieve constipation.

Alleviating effects of gut micro-ecologically regulatory treatments on mice with constipation

Treatments targeted for gut microbial regulation are newly developed strategies in constipation management. In this study, the alleviating effects of gut micro-ecologically regulatory treatments on constipation in mice were investigated. Male BALB/c mice were treated with loperamide to induce constipation, and then the corresponding intervention was administered in each group, respectively. The results showed that administration of mixed probiotics (MP), a 5-fold dose of postbiotics (P5), both synbiotics (S and S2), as well as mixed probiotics and postbiotics (MPP) blend for 8 days shortened the time to the first black stool, raised fecal water content, promoted intestinal motility, and increased serum motilin level in loperamide-treated mice. Furthermore, these treatments altered gut microbial composition and metabolism of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). Based on linear regression analysis, SCFA was positively correlated with serum motilin except for isobutyrate. It suggested gut microbial metabolites affected secretion of motilin to increase gastrointestinal movement and transportation function and thus improved pathological symptoms of mice with constipation. In conclusion, the alteration of gut micro-ecology is closely associated with gastrointestinal function, and it is an effective way to improve constipation via probiotic, prebiotic, and postbiotic treatment.

Dietary Component-Induced Inflammation and Its Amelioration by Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Synbiotics

A balanced diet with many dietary components maintains immune homeostasis directly by interacting with innate and adaptive immune components or indirectly through gut microbiota and their metabolites. Dietary components may inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators and promote anti-inflammatory functions or vice versa. Western diets with imbalanced dietary components skew the immune balance toward pro-inflammation and induce intestinal inflammation, consequently leading to many intestinal and systemic inflammatory diseases like ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, cardiovascular problems, obesity, and diabetes. The dietary component-induced inflammation is usually chronic in nature and frequently caused or accompanied by alterations in gut microbiota. Therefore, microbiome-targeted therapies such as probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics hold great potentials to amend immune dysregulation and gut dysbiosis, preventing and treating intestinal and systemic inflammatory diseases. Probiotics, prebiotics and synbioitcs are progressively being added to foods and beverages, with claims of health benefits. However, the underlining mechanisms of these interventions for preventing and treating dietary component-induced inflammation are still not very clear. In addition, possibly ineffective or negative consequences of some probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics call for stringent testing and regulation. Here, we will first briefly review inflammation, in terms of its types and the relationship between different dietary components and immune responses. Then, we focus on current knowledge about the direct and indirect effects of probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics on intestinal and systemic inflammation. Understanding how probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics modulate the immune system and gut microbiota will improve our strategies for preventing and treating dietary component-induced intestinal inflammation and inflammatory diseases.

Lactic acid bacteria alleviate di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate-induced liver and testis toxicity via their bio-binding capacity, antioxidant capacity and regulation of the gut microbiota

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a plasticiser that, if absorbed into the human body, can cause various adverse effects including reproductive toxicity, liver toxicity and gut microbiota dysbiosis. So far, some studies have proved that the toxicity of DEHP can be reduced by using antioxidants. However, these candidates all show potential side effects and cannot prevent the accumulation of DEHP in the body, making them unable to be used as a daily dietary supplement to relieve the toxic effects of DEHP. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have antioxidant capacity and the ability to adsorb harmful substances. Herein, we investigated the protective effects of five strains of LAB, selected based on our in vitro assessments on antioxidant capacities or bio-binding capacities, against the adverse effects of DEHP exposure in rats. Our results showed that LAB strains with outstanding DEHP/MEHP binding capacities, Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis CCFM1018 and Lactobacillus plantarum CCFM1019, possess the ability to facilitate the elimination of DEHP and its metabolite mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) with the faeces, decrease DEHP and MEHP level in serum further. Meanwhile, DEHP-induced liver and testicular injuries were effectively alleviated by CCFM1018 and CCFM1019. In addition, CCFM1018 effectively alleviated the DEHP-induced oxidative stress with its strong antioxidant ability. Furthermore, both CCFM1018 and CCFM1019 modulated the gut microbiota, which in turn increased the concentrations of faecal propionate and butyrate and regulated the pathways related to host metabolism. Correlation analysis indicate that DEHP/MEHP bio-binding capacity of LAB plays a crucial role in protecting the body from DEHP exposure, and its antioxidant capacity and the ability to alleviate the gut microbiota dysbiosis are also involved in the alleviation of damage. Thus, LAB with powerful bio-binding capacity of DEHP and MEHP can be considered as a potential therapeutic dietary strategy against DEHP exposure.

Effect of 8-week intake of the n-3 fatty acid-rich perilla oil on the gut function and as a fuel source for female athletes: a randomised trial

Previous studies have examined the effects of n-3 fatty acid intake in supplement form or fish oil capsules, but there are few studies based on other foods. Perilla oil is a traditional Japanese seed oil rich in n-3 fatty acids. This randomised trial aimed to determine the appropriate n-3 fatty acid dose through consumption of perilla oil, which improves gut function and microbiota in trained athletes, and the amount of fat fuel required to provide energy to athletes involved in high-intensity training to improve athletic performance. Thirty-six female athletes training six times per week were randomly assigned to three groups according to perilla oil intake: 9 g/d (high oil intake (HOI)), 3 g/d (low oil intake (LOI)) and placebo-supplementation (PLA) groups. The HOI and LOI groups had perilla oil-containing jelly and the PLA group had placebo jelly for 8 weeks. Gut microbiota, constipation score and urinary biochemical index were measured pre- and post-intervention. The spoilage bacteria, Proteobacteria, significantly decreased (P = 0·036, d = 0·53), whereas Butyrate-producing bacteria, Lachnospiraceae, significantly increased (P = 0·007, d = 1·2) in the HOI group. Urinary indoxyl sulphate significantly decreased in the HOI group only (P = 0·010, d = 0·82). Changes in the constipation score were significantly lower in the HOI group (P = 0·020) and even lower in the LOI group (P = 0·073) than in the PLA group; there were significant differences between groups (P = 0·035). Therefore, perilla oil intake may improve gut function and microbiota in athletes, with higher doses resulting in further improvement.

Evaluation of the effect of prebiotic sesame candies on loperamide-induced constipation in mice

Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal tract symptoms. In this study, prebiotic sesame sugar (PSC) was prepared from isomalto-oligosaccharide, konjac glucomannan and sesame, and the relieving effect of PSC on constipation induced by loperamide was explored. The results showed that PSC treatment profoundly improved the defecation function and boosted intestinal motility. Moreover, PSC repaired gastrointestinal tissue injury and inflammation induced by constipation, which confirmed the effectiveness of PSC intervention in the treatment of constipation. The mechanism of PSC improving constipation might be that PSC improved the imbalance of gastrointestinal neurotransmitters and increased the content of short-chain fatty acids in feces. In conclusion, PSC dietotherapy could effectively alleviate the symptoms and lay a theoretical foundation for the development of an anti-constipation diet.

Dynamics of Changes in the Gut Microbiota of Healthy Mice Fed with Lactic Acid Bacteria and Bifidobacteria

Probiotics are living microorganisms that provide numerous health benefits for their host. Probiotics have various effects on the body; for example, they change gut microbiota, improve the integrity of the epithelial barrier and have anti-inflammatory effects. The use of probiotic supplements that are based on lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria is one of the approaches that are used to balance gut microflora. In our study, we evaluated the effects of supplements, which were based on members of the Lactobacillaceae family and bifidobacteria, on the gut microbiome of healthy mice using the 16S rRNA sequencing method. The data that were obtained demonstrated that when mice received the probiotic supplements, statistically significant changes occurred in the composition of the microbiome at the phylum level, which were characterized by an increase in the number of Actinobacteriota, Bacteroidota, Verrucomicrobia and Proteobacteria, all of which have potentially positive effects on health. At the generic level, a decrease in the abundance of members of the Nocardioides, Helicobacter and Mucispirillum genus, which are involved in inflammatory processes, was observed for the group of mice that was fed with lactic acid bacteria. For the group of mice that was fed with bifidobacteria, a decrease was seen in the number of members of the Tyzzerella and Akkermansia genus. The results of our study contribute to the understanding of changes in the gut microbiota of healthy mice under the influence of probiotics. It was shown that probiotics that are based on members of the Lactobacillaceae family have a more positive effect on the gut microbiome than probiotics that are based on bifidobacteria.

Bifidobacterium longum relieves constipation by regulating the intestinal barrier of mice

Constipation is a major health concern worldwide, requiring effective and safe treatment options. This study mainly focused on three species and nine strains of bifidobacteria from different sources to study their abilities to relieve constipation induced by loperamide in BALB/C mice. By monitoring constipation-related indicators, it was found that only Bifidobacterium longum (B. longum) relieved constipation, which indicated that bifidobacteria had inter-species differences in relieving constipation. Furthermore, through the detection of biological, chemical, mechanical, and immune barriers in mice, it was discovered that B. longum upregulates the relative abundance of 22 genera that were positively related to faecal water content, small intestinal propulsion rate, acetate, propionate, and intestinal mechanical barrier and negatively correlated with inflammatory factors, AQP8 and the time of first black stool and downregulates the relative abundance of Akkermansia. Furthermore, it increased the level of acetate in faeces and reduced the expression of AQP8 in the colon. This enhances intestinal motility and improves water and electrolyte metabolism. Meanwhile, it inhibited inflammation and prevented loperamide-induced intestinal barrier damage in constipated mice by upregulating occludin and downregulating IL-1β and TNF-α. In summary, B. longum relieved constipation by regulating the intestinal barrier in constipated mice.

The Anti-Constipation Effects of Raffino-Oligosaccharide on Gut Function in Mice Using Neurotransmitter Analyses, 16S rRNA Sequencing and Targeted Screening

Raffino-oligosaccharide (ROS), the smallest oligosaccharide of the raffinose family, is a novel food ingredient. However, the anti-constipation effects of ROS remain obscure. This study investigates the anti-constipation effects of ROS based on the loperamide-induced mice model and reveals the underlying mechanism using constipation parameters, neurotransmitter level, 16S rRNA sequencing, and the targeted screening strategy. The prevention effects were firstly investigated by the gastro-intestinal transit rate experiment (50 mice) and defecation status experiment (50 mice), which were divided into five groups (n = 10/group): blank, model, and low-, medium- and high-dose ROS. Furthermore, the slow-transit constipation experiment (blank, model, and high-dose ROS, n = 10/group) was conducted to illustrate the underlying mechanism. The results showed that ROS aided in preventing the occurrence of constipation by improving the gastro-intestinal transit rate and the defecation frequency in mice, and ROS significantly reduced the serum levels of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). In addition, ROS regulated the diversity and structure of intestinal flora. Among them, one specific family and six specific genera were significantly regulated in constipated mice. The targeted screening revealed that 29 targets related to the anti-constipation effects of ROS, indicating ROS may play a role by regulating multiple targets. Furthermore, the network pharmacology analysis showed that Akt1, Stat3, Mapk8, Hsp90aa1, Cat, Alb, Icam1, Sod2, and Gsk3b can be regarded as the core anti-constipation targets. In conclusion, ROS could effectively relieve constipation, possibly by inhibiting the level of neurotransmitters and regulating the gut flora in mice. This study also provides a novel network pharmacology-based targeted screening strategy to reveal the anti-constipation effects of ROS.

Lactic acid bacteria alleviate liver damage caused by perfluorooctanoic acid exposure via antioxidant capacity, biosorption capacity and gut microbiota regulation

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is an environmental pollutant that has multiple toxic effects. Although some medicines and functional food ingredients are currently being used to alleviate the biological toxicity effects caused by PFOA, these candidates all show potential side effects and cannot prevent the accumulation of PFOA in the body, making them unable to be used as a daily dietary supplement to relieve the toxic effects of PFOA. However, new research has shown that lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can alleviate toxicity caused by exposure to foreign substances. In this study, multiple strains of LAB with different adsorption capacities or antioxidant capacities were used to analyse their mitigation effects of on liver damage caused by PFOA exposure. The results showed that the adsorption capacity and antioxidant capacity of LAB could alleviate the liver toxicity of PFOA to a certain extent. Moreover, treatment with some strains of LAB was able to recover the gut microbiota dysbiosis caused by PFOA exposure, such as by increasing the relative abundances of Patescibacteria, Proteobacteria, Akkermansia and Alistipes or decreasing the abundances of Bacteroides and Blautia. In addition, a strain with neither outstanding antioxidant capacity nor adsorption capacity also reversed the decline in short-chain fatty acid levels caused by PFOA exposure. The ability of these strains to relieve gut microbiota dysbiosis partly explains the inconsistency between the capacity for antioxidant or PFOA adsorption and the ability of the strains to alleviate PFOA toxicity. The results indicate that the PFOA adsorption capacity and antioxidant capacity of LAB may be involved in the alleviation of PFOA liver toxicity. In addition, LAB could also alleviate liver damage caused by PFOA by adjusting the gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acid content. Therefore, some strains of LAB can be used as a potentially safe dietary supplement to relieve PFOA-induced liver damage.

Akkermansia muciniphila Exerts Strain-Specific Effects on DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice

Akkermansia muciniphila is a commensal bacterium of the gut mucus layer. Although both in vitro and in vivo data have shown that A. muciniphila strains exhibit strain-specific modulation of gut functions, its ability to moderate immunity to ulcerative colitis have not been verified. We selected three isolated human A. muciniphila strains (FSDLZ39M14, FSDLZ36M5 and FSDLZ20M4) and the A. muciniphila type strain ATCC BAA-835 to examine the effects of different A. muciniphila strains on dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis. All of the A. muciniphila strains were cultured anaerobically in brain heart infusion medium supplemented with 0.25% type II mucin from porcine stomach. To create animal models, colitis was established in C57BL/6 mice which randomly divided into six groups with 10 mice in each group by adding 3% dextran sulfate sodium to drinking water for 7 days. A. muciniphila strains were orally administered to the mice at a dose of 1 × 10⁹ CFU. Only A. muciniphila FSDLZ36M5 exerted significant protection against ulcerative colitis (UC) by increasing the colon length, restoring body weight, decreasing gut permeability and promoting anti-inflammatory cytokine expression. However, the other strains (FSDLZ39M14, ATCC BAA-835 and FSDLZ20M4) failed to provide these effects. Notably, A. muciniphila FSDLZ20M4 showed a tendency to exacerbate inflammation according to several indicators. Gut microbiota sequencing showed that A. muciniphila FSDLZ36M5 supplementation recovered the gut microbiota of mice to a similar state to that of the control group. A comparative genomic analysis demonstrated that the positive effects of A. muciniphila FSDLZ36M5 compared with the FSDLZ20M4 strain may be associated with specific functional genes that are involved in immune defense mechanisms and protein synthesis. Our results verify the efficacy of A. muciniphila in improving UC and provide gene targets for the efficient and rapid screening of A. muciniphila strains with UC-alleviating effects.

The protective effects of yellow tea extract against loperamide-induced constipation in mice

Yellow tea, a rare type tea from China, has a rich breadth of functional ingredients and benefits the gastrointestinal tract. However, it is not clear whether the yellow tea extract can alleviate constipation. Therefore, we used loperamide-induced constipation in mice to evaluate the effects of yellow tea extract. Fifty Kunming mice were randomly divided into five groups: normal, model, low-dose yellow tea extract, low-dose yellow tea extract prevention group, and high-dose yellow tea extract prevention group. Mice were administered yellow tea extract for 5 weeks followed by loperamide-induced constipation for the final 2 weeks. The results showed that yellow tea extract alleviated constipation symptoms by improving the fecal water content, defecation weight, and gastrointestinal transit rate. Yellow tea extract intervention also protected colon tissue, regulated serum neurotransmitters, and decreased the vasoactive intestinal peptide level. Furthermore, qRT-PCR indicated that yellow tea extract regulated genes associated with the constipation state, raised 5-HT3 and 5-HT4 and reduced AQP3 and AQP4 mRNA expression. Moreover, we found that yellow tea extract changed the gut microbiota composition. Community diversity and richness were increased and principal co-ordinate analysis demonstrated that the yellow tea extract prophylaxis groups differed from the model group. Difference analysis indicated that yellow tea extract increased Roseburia, Lachnospiraceae_UCG-006, and Bifidobacterium and decreased norank_f_Clostridiales_vadinBB60_group, unclassified_o_Bacteroidales, and Bacteroides, which are correlated with constipation. Based on these results, we believe that regular yellow tea consumption can effectively alleviate constipation.

Prebiotics/Probiotics Mixture Induced Changes in Cecal Microbiome and Intestinal Morphology Alleviated the Loperamide-Induced Constipation in Rat

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a mixture of multi-strain probiotics and prebiotics on loperamide-induced constipation in Sprague-Dawley rats. A multi-strain probiotics alone (loperamide-induced group with multi-strain probiotics mixture group; Lop-Pro) and a mixture of multi-strain probiotics and prebiotics (loperamide-induced group with multi-strain probiotics and prebiotics mixture group; Lop-Pro/Pre) were administered orally after inducing constipation. The fecal water content was significantly higher (by 42%) in the Lop-Pro/Pre group (33.5%) than in the loperamide-induced group (Lop) (23.7%) (p<0.05). The intestinal mucosal thickness, crypt cell area, and interstitial cells of Cajal area were significantly higher in the Lop-Pro/Pre group compared to the Lop group by 16.4%, 20.6%, and 42.3%, respectively. Additionally, the total short-chain fatty acid content was significantly increased in the Lop-Pro and Lop-Pro/Pre groups by 56.4% and 54.2%, respectively, compared with the Lop group. The Lop-Pro and Lop-Pro/Pre groups recovered loperamide-induced alteration in Bacteroidetes and Verrucomicrobia abundance among intestinal microbiota, whereas the Lop-Pro/Pre group recovered Akkermansia, Lactobacillus, Clostridium, Bacteroides, and Oscillibacter abundance. Moreover, the relative abundance of Oscillibacter and Clostridium was significantly different in the Lop-Pro/Pre group compared to the Lop group. Collectively, administration of synbiotics rather than multi-strain probiotics alone is effective in alleviating constipation.

Probiotics Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG ATCC53103 and Lactobacillus plantarum JL01 induce cytokine alterations by the production of TCDA, DHA, and succinic and palmitic acids, and enhance immunity of weaned piglets

Probiotics, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG ATCC53103 and Lactobacillus plantarum JL01, can improve growth performance and immunity of piglets, and relieve weaning stress-related immune disorders such as intestinal infections and inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the ability of co-administration of the probiotics L. rhamnosus GG ATCC53103 and L. plantarum JL01 to stimulate immune responses and improve gut health during the critical weaning period in piglets. Forty-eight weaned piglets were randomly divided into four groups, and fed daily for 28 days either without, or with the two probiotics independently, or in combination. On day 28, we analyzed the cytokine and bacterial changes in intestinal mucosa and the hepatic portal vein blood metabolites of the weaned piglets. Our results showed that combined L. rhamnosus GG ATCC53103 and L. plantarum JL01 significantly increased (p < 0.05) the growth performance and expression of IL-10 and TGF-β1 mRNAs. In contrast, this treatment significantly decreased (p < 0.05) IL-1β mRNA level in the jejunum, ileum, and cecum. Furthermore, the secretion of IL-6 in the cecum, IL-1β in the jejunum, ileum, and cecum, and TNF-α in the jejunum and ileum was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Prevotella_9 and Enterococcus in ileum and cecum was significantly increased (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Ruminococcus_1 and Ruminococcaceae_UCG-005 in cecum was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Prevotella_9 and Enterococcus may increase the accumulation of (4Z,7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z,19Z)-4,7,10,13,16,19-docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TCDA) in portal vein blood, while Ruminococcus_1 and Ruminococcaceae_UCG-005 may decrease the accumulation of succinic and palmitic acids. These results indicate that L. rhamnosus GG ATCC53103 and L. plantarum JL01 may regulate cytokine levels by reducing the accumulation of succinic and palmitic acids and increasing the accumulation of TCDA and DHA, thereby enhancing the immunity of weaned piglets.

Improvement of loperamide-induced slow transit constipation by Bifidobacterium bifidum G9-1 is mediated by the correction of butyrate production and neurotransmitter profile due to improvement in dysbiosis

A treatment option for constipation that improves the quality of life is needed since available laxatives do not effectively improve the quality of life in patients with constipation. A significant association between gut dysbiosis and constipation is recognized, suggesting that probiotics may be an important option for management of constipation. The underlying mechanism by which probiotics improve constipation remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of the probiotic Bifidobacterium bifidum G9-1 (BBG9-1) on loperamide-induced delayed colonic transit constipation and to elucidate its mechanism of action. First, the effect of BBG9-1 was evaluated in a rat model of constipation induced by subcutaneous administration of loperamide. BBG9-1 improved constipation parameters (number of feces, fecal water content, and fecal hardness) in constipated rats. Next, the relationship of organic acids and neurotransmitters to gut microbiota was investigated. BBG9-1 improved dysbiosis and prevented a decrease in butyric acid concentration in the gut, increased serum serotonin, and suppressed an increase in dopamine and a decrease in acetylcholine in serum. Further, an increase in the expression level of tryptophan hydroxylase 1, a 5-HT-synthetizing enzyme, was observed. These results suggest that BBG9-1 improves dysbiosis, which results in an increase in organic acids and improvement of neurotransmission. These actions may increase intestinal mobility, finally leading to alleviating constipation. The probiotic BBG9-1 may, therefore, be a potential option for the treatment of constipation.

Pediococcus acidilactici Strains Improve Constipation Symptoms and Regulate Intestinal Flora in Mice

Constipation is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder that seriously reduces the quality of life. Clinical studies have shown that a great change or severe imbalance occurs in the intestinal microbiota of people with constipation. This study explored whether bacteriocin-producing and non-bacteriocin-producing Pediococcus acidilactici strains resulted in differences in the alleviation of constipation and changes in the fecal flora in BALB/c mice. The constipation-related indicators, gastrointestinal regulatory peptides and gut microbiota were identified to evaluate their alleviating effects and underlying mechanisms. The time to the first black-stool defecation and the gastrointestinal transit rate in constipated mice were found to be somewhat improved by four P. acidilactici strains (P > 0.05). Moreover, there were significant differences in the level of most gastrointestinal regulatory peptides in the serum, as well as in the composition and abundance of intestinal microbiota in different groups (P < 0.05). At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Firmicutes was significantly increased, but those of Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria were significantly reduced after the administration of four P. acidilactici strains for 14 d (P < 0.05). The levels of Bacteroides and genera from Enterobacteriaceae were significantly decreased, whereas Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus were upregulated when bacteriocin-producing P. acidilactici CCFM18 and CCFM28 strains were provided in the diet (P < 0.05). The results indicated that although constipation-related symptoms were alleviated to only a limited degree, the administration of four P. acidilactici strains effectively regulated the gut flora and provided a potential health benefit to the host, especially the bacteriocin-producing P. acidilactici strains.

Perfluorooctanoic acid-induced liver injury is potentially associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), an environmental pollutant, is widely engaged in industrial products and tends to accumulate in the liver. Emerging evidence has suggested that the gut microbiome is a pivotal player in maintaining animal health and can potentially altered by xenobiotic. However, few studies explored whether PFOA-induced liver injury is associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis. In the present study, the effects of subacute and subchronic PFOA exposure on liver and gut microbiota in C57BL/6J mice were investigated. Our findings showed that both subacute and subchronic exposure to PFOA induced the liver inflammation, disrupted antioxidative homeostasis and caused liver histological abnormalities with detectable hepatomegaly, ultimately triggering liver injury. Besides, 16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed that subacute PFOA exposure caused significant changes in the abundances of intestinal flora known to contribute to liver inflammation and oxidative stress, such as the Dehalobacterium and Bacteroides genera. Exposure to subchronic toxicity mainly induced the decrease in commensal probiotics including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera, which are potentially beneficial to liver damage, compared with that in the untreated group. They also resulted in disturbed functional capabilities of the microbial communities by a Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States (PICRUSt) analysis. Additionally, the levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), especially butyric acid, were significantly reduced by PFOA administration. Collectively, our observations suggested that liver damage induced by both subacute and subchronic PFOA exposures probably partly related to the gut microbiota dysbiosis and provided a new insight into the role of PFOA in liver injury.

Relief of Cadmium-Induced Intestinal Motility Disorder in Mice by Lactobacillus plantarum CCFM8610

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal inducing a range of adverse effects on organs including liver and kidneys. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of Cd-induced intestinal toxicity through dietary intake is poorly studied. This study evaluated the toxic effects of Cd on intestinal physiology and confirmed the effectiveness of the protective mechanism of the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum CCFM8610 against chronic Cd toxicity. After treatment with Cd, the HT-29 cell line was subjected to iTRAQ analysis, which revealed that changes in the proteomic profiles after Cd exposure were related to pathways involved in the stress response and carbohydrate metabolism. The results of an animal trial also indicated that 10 weeks of Cd exposure decreased the fecal water content and contractile response of colonic muscle strips in mice, and delayed the excretion time of the first black feces. L. plantarum CCFM8610 treatment provided protective effects against these Cd-induced intestinal motility dysfunctions by recovering the levels of neurotransmitters, including substance P, acetyl cholinesterase, vasoactive intestinal peptide, 5-hydroxytryptamine, calcitonin gene-related peptide, and nitric oxide, and suppressing the cellular stress response in mice (e.g., the inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways). The administration of this probiotic was also observed to reduce Cd levels in the tissues and blood of the mice. Our results suggest a newly identified protective mechanism of probiotics against Cd toxicity that involves the recovery of intestinal motility and increase in fecal cadmium excretion.

Effect of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis MN-Gup on constipation and the composition of gut microbiota

Probiotics have been reported to be associated with the alleviation of constipation. The aim of this study was to detect and determine the effect of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis MN-Gup (MN-Gup) on the alleviation of constipation in BALB/c mice and humans, and to elucidate the mechanisms underlying its effect by measuring changes in the concentration of short-chain fatty acids and the composition of microbes in human faeces. BALB/c mice were given MN-Gup by gavage for 14 days. On the 8^th day of this treatment, constipation was induced by the application of diphenoxylate via gavage. The results showed that MN-Gup significantly decreased the first black stool defecation time, and significantly increased black faecal wet weight, black faecal number and the gastric-intestinal transit rate (P<0.05), thereby relieving constipation. In humans, a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed to investigate the effect of MN-Gup in adults with functional constipation. After 4 weeks of intervention with placebo or MN-Gup yogurt, constipation-related symptoms (including defecation frequency, stool consistency, straining and incomplete feeling during defecation) in the constipated subjects were significantly improved in the two groups, but not different between the groups at the end of the intervention. The concentration of acetate increased significantly in the MN-Gup group compared to the placebo group and before ingestion. Significant changes in the composition of gut microbiota were found after intake of MN-Gup yogurt when compared to placebo. The relative abundances of acetate-producing Bifidobacterium, Ruminoccaceae_UCG-002 and Ruminoccaceae_UCG-005 were significantly increased after intake of MN-Gup yogurt. These results showed that MN-Gup could relieve constipation related to increased acetate-producing Bifidobacterium, Ruminoccaceae_UCG-002 and Ruminoccaceae_UCG-005.

Konjac glucomannan with probiotics acts as a combination laxative to relieve constipation in mice by increasing short-chain fatty acid metabolism and 5-hydroxytryptamine hormone release

OBJECTIVES

Various probiotics and natural products can help to relieve constipation. This study aimed to explore the constipation-relieving effects and potential mechanism of a combination laxative of konjac glucomannan and probiotics.

METHODS

This study evaluated the gastrointestinal-tract viability of probiotics in vitro. A constipation model was constructed in BALB/c mice, and the efficacies of the combinations verified in terms of their bowel movement-promoting effects, including the first black-stool defecation time and gastrointestinal transit rates of mice. Colonization by the probiotics was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Hematoxylin-eosin staining, gas chromatography, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot were also used for analysis.

RESULTS

Lactobacillus paracasei X11 (X11) and L. casei YRL577 (YRL577) had outstanding gastrointestinal-tract viability. Konjac glucomannan (KGM) + X11, Prunus persica + X11, and Prunus persica + YRL577 significantly relieved constipation. In addition, KGM promoted the colonization of X11. Meanwhile, KGM + X11 effectively promoted the metabolism of short-chain fatty acids in mice better than other combinations, and the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) content in the KGM + X11 group was the highest among all the groups. Therefore, KGM + X11 was selected for further research. The combination laxative promoted the secretion of 5-HT, up-regulated mRNA and protein levels of 5-HT receptor 4 and serotonin transporter via the 5-HT pathway, and effectively relieved constipation.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination laxative konjac glucomannan-probiotic (KGM + X11) promoted defecation in constipated mice, possibly by increasing short-chain fatty acid metabolism and 5-HT hormone release.

Prevention of loperamide induced constipation in mice by KGM and the mechanisms of different gastrointestinal tract microbiota regulation

Constipation is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal tract diseases. Konjac glucomannan (KGM) dietotherapy can effectively relieve the clinical symptoms of patients with constipation. However, the causal relationship among KGM, constipation and different gastrointestinal microbiome (i.e., the stomach {St}, small intestine {S}, and large intestine {L}) remains poorly understood. In this study, constipated mice were treated with KGM (75, 150, 300 mg/kg bw). Results showed that KGM treatment improved the general physiological state, fecal character, small intestinal propulsive rate, gastric emptying rate, MTL and AchE activities, ET-1, 5-HT, and NO levels, and SCFA concentrations. KGM in the diets of constipated mice reduced the diversity of St and S microbiota, while increased those in the L. The KGM intervention regulated the microbiota profile, which afterwards was closer to the normal mouse group: confirmation was provided by different changes of bacteria like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Allobaculum spp et al.