Limosilactobacillus reuteri in Health and Disease

House dust metagenome and pulmonary function in a US farming population

BACKGROUND

Chronic exposure to microorganisms inside homes can impact respiratory health. Few studies have used advanced sequencing methods to examine adult respiratory outcomes, especially continuous measures. We aimed to identify metagenomic profiles in house dust related to the quantitative traits of pulmonary function and airway inflammation in adults. Microbial communities, 1264 species (389 genera), in vacuumed bedroom dust from 779 homes in a US cohort were characterized by whole metagenome shotgun sequencing. We examined two overall microbial diversity measures: richness (the number of individual microbial species) and Shannon index (reflecting both richness and relative abundance). To identify specific differentially abundant genera, we applied the Lasso estimator with high-dimensional inference methods, a novel framework for analyzing microbiome data in relation to continuous traits after accounting for all taxa examined together.

RESULTS

Pulmonary function measures (forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and FEV1/FVC ratio) were not associated with overall dust microbial diversity. However, many individual microbial genera were differentially abundant (p-value < 0.05 controlling for all other microbial taxa examined) in relation to FEV1, FVC, or FEV1/FVC. Similarly, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), a marker of airway inflammation, was unrelated to overall microbial diversity but associated with differential abundance for many individual genera. Several genera, including Limosilactobacillus, were associated with a pulmonary function measure and FeNO, while others, including Moraxella to FEV1/FVC and Stenotrophomonas to FeNO, were associated with a single trait.

CONCLUSIONS

Using state-of-the-art metagenomic sequencing, we identified specific microorganisms in indoor dust related to pulmonary function and airway inflammation. Some were previously associated with respiratory conditions; others were novel, suggesting specific environmental microbial components contribute to various respiratory outcomes. The methods used are applicable to studying microbiome in relation to other continuous outcomes. Video Abstract.

Modulation of human gut microbiota by linear and branched fructooligosaccharides in an in vitro colon model (TIM-2)

AIMS

This study aimed to compare the effects of linear and branched fructooligosaccharides (FOS) extracted from chicory and grass (Lolium perenne), respectively on human microbiota composition, diversity, and metabolism.

METHODS AND RESULTS

To test the effects of linear and branched FOS on human microbiota we used the artificial in vitro human colon model (TIM-2). Microbiota composition and diversity were assessed by V3-V4 16S rRNA metagenomic sequencing, followed by differential taxa abundance and alpha/beta diversity analyses. SCFA/BCFA production was evaluated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. As a result, branched FOS had the most beneficial effects on microbial diversity and metabolite production. Also, branched FOS significantly increased the abundance of commensal bacteria associated with maintaining healthy gut functions and controlling inflammation, such as Butyricicoccus, Erysipelotrichaceae, Phascolarctobacterium, and Sutterella. Linear FOS also significantly increased the abundance of some other commensal gut bacteria (Anaerobutyricum, Lachnospiraceae, Faecalibacterium), but there were no differences in diversity metrics compared to the control.

CONCLUSIONS

The study revealed that branched FOS had the most beneficial effects compared to the linear FOS in vitro, concerning microbiota modulation, and metabolite production, making this a good candidate for further studies in food biotechnology.

Current research progress, opportunities, and challenges of Limosillactobacillus reuteri-based probiotic dietary strategies

Limosillactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri), a type of Lactobacillus spp., stands out as the most extensively researched probiotic. Its remarkable intestinal adhesion has led to widespread applications in both the food and medical sectors. Notably, recent research highlights the probiotic efficacy of L. reuteri sourced from breast milk, particularly in influencing social behavior and mitigating atopic dermatitis. In this review, our emphasis is on surveying recent literature regarding the promotion of host's health by L. reuteri. We aim to provide a concise summary of the latest regulatory effects and potential mechanisms attributed to L. reuteri in the realms of metabolism, brain- and immune-related functions. The mechanism through which L. reuteri promotes host health by modulating the intestinal microenvironment primarily involves promoting intestinal epithelial renewal, bolstering intestinal barrier function, regulating gut microbiota and its metabolites, and suppressing inflammation and immune responses. Additionally, this review delves into new technologies, identifies shortcomings, and addresses challenges in current L. reuteri research. Finally, the application prospects of L. reuteri are provided. Therefore, a better understanding of the role and mechanisms of L. reuteri will contribute significantly to the development of new probiotic functional foods and enable precise, targeted interventions for various diseases.

Mucoadhesive Mesalamine Prodrug Nanoassemblies to Target Intestinal Macrophages for the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

While mesalamine, a 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA), is pivotal in the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) through both step-up and top-down approaches in clinical settings, its widespread utilization is limited by low bioavailability at the desired site of action due to rapid and extensive absorption in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Addressing mesalamine's pharmacokinetic challenges, here, we introduce nanoassemblies composed exclusively of a mesalamine prodrug that pairs 5-ASA with a mucoadhesive and cathepsin B-cleavable peptide. In an IBD model, orally administered nanoassemblies demonstrate enhanced accumulation and sustained retention in the GI tract due to their mucoadhesive properties and the epithelial enhanced permeability and retention (eEPR) effect. This retention enables the efficient uptake by intestinal pro-inflammatory macrophages expressing high cathepsin B, triggering a burst release of the 5-ASA. This cascade fosters the polarization toward an M2 macrophage phenotype, diminishes inflammatory responses, and simultaneously facilitates the delivery of active agents to adjacent epithelial cells. Therefore, the nanoassemblies show outstanding therapeutic efficacy in inhibiting local inflammation and contribute to suppressing systemic inflammation by restoring damaged intestinal barriers. Collectively, this study highlights the promising role of the prodrug nanoassemblies in enhancing targeted drug delivery, potentially broadening the use of mesalamine in managing IBD.

Diversity and host interaction of the gut microbiota in specific pathogen-free pigs

Pigs are widely used as animal models in various studies related to humans. The interaction between the gut microbiota and the host has significant effects on the host's health and disease status. However, although there have been many studies investigating the pig gut microbiota, the findings have been inconsistent due to variations in rearing conditions. Interactions between the gut microbiota and host have not been fully explored in pigs. Specific pathogen-free (SPF) pigs are ideal non-primate large animals to study the interactions between the gut microbiota and the host. In this study, we performed high-throughput sequencing analysis of the gut microbiota and the gut tissue transcriptome of six SPF pigs to provide a systematic understanding of the composition, function, and spatial distribution of gut microbiota in SPF pigs. We identified significant differences in microbial diversity and functionality among different gastrointestinal tract sites. Metagenomics data analysis revealed significant differences in alpha diversity and beta diversity of microbiota in different gastrointestinal sites of SPF pigs. Additionally, transcriptomic data indicated significant differences in gene expression as well as KEGG and GO functional enrichment between the small intestine and large intestine. Furthermore, by combining microbial metagenomics and host transcriptomics analyses, specific correlations were found between gut microbiota and host genes. These included a negative correlation between the TCN1 gene and Prevotella dentalis, possibly related to bacterial metabolic pathways involving vitamin B12, and a positive correlation between the BDH1 gene and Roseburia hominis, possibly because both are involved in fatty acid metabolism. These findings lay the groundwork for further exploration of the co-evolution between the microbiota and the host, specifically in relation to nutrition, metabolism, and immunity. In conclusion, we have elucidated the diversity of the gut microbiota in SPF pigs and conducted a detailed investigation into the interactions between the gut microbiota and host gene expression. These results contribute to our understanding of the intricate dynamics between the gut microbiota and the host, offering important references for advancements in life science research, bioproduct production, and sustainable development in animal husbandry.

Polygonatum kingianum Polysaccharides Enhance the Preventive Efficacy of Heat-Inactivated Limosilactobacillus reuteri WX-94 against High-Fat-High-Sucrose-Induced Liver Injury and Gut Dysbacteriosis

Limosilactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) is an efficacious probiotic that could reduce inflammation and prevent metabolic disorders. Here, we innovatively found that Polygonatum kingianum polysaccharides (PKP) promoted proliferation and increased stability of L. reuteri WX-94 (a probiotic strain showing anti-inflammation potentials) in simulated digestive fluids in vitro. PKP was composed of galactose, glucose, mannose, and arabinose. The cell-free supernatant extracted from L. reuteri cultured with PKP increased ABTS•+, DPPH•, and FRAP scavenging capacities compared with the supernatant of the medium without PKP and increased metabolites with health-promoting activities, e.g., 3-phenyllactic acid, indole-3-lactic acid, indole-3-carbinol, and propionic acid. Moreover, PKP enhanced alleviating effects of heat-inactivated L. reuteri on high-fat-high-sucrose-induced liver injury in rats via reducing inflammation and regulating expressions of protein and genes involved in fatty acid metabolism (such as HIF1-α, FAβO, CPT1, and AMPK) and fatty acid profiles in liver. Such benefits correlated with its prominent effects on enriching Lactobacillus and short-chain fatty acids while reducing Dubosiella, Fusicatenilacter, Helicobacter, and Oscillospira. Our work provides novel insights into the probiotic property of PKP and emphasizes the great potential of the inactivated L. reuteri cultured with PKP in contracting unhealthy diet-induced liver dysfunctions and gut dysbacteriosis.

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.

Effects of dietary cecropin on growth performance, diarrhea rate and intestinal health of nursery Hainan pigs

Antimicrobial peptides could inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and promote the growth performance in weaned piglets. Here, we investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with cecropin antimicrobial peptides (CAP) on growth performance, diarrhea rate, intestinal health in nursery Hainan piglets. For this, 120 healthy nursery Hainan male piglets (13.29 ± 0.29 kg, 44 days old) were randomly divided into 5 groups-a control (CON) group (fed a basal diet), an antibiotic control (AC) group (fed a basal diet supplemented with 250 mg/kg colistin sulfate); and 3 experimental groups (provided the basal diet supplemented with 250, 500, or 1,000 mg/kg CAP). Pre-feeding lasted 7 days and the official period lasted 40 days. The results showed that compared with the CON group, dietary supplementation of 500 mg/kg CAP had significantly increased the average daily gain (ADG, p < 0.05), while the feed conversion ratio (FCR) and diarrhea rate were markedly reduced (p < 0.05), serum total protein (TP), albumin, IgA, IgM, and globulin concentrations were significantly increased (p < 0.05), where serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level was significantly reduced (p < 0.05), and it also increased the villus height and the villus height-to-crypt depth ratio in the jejunum, reduced the serum D-lactic acid concentrations and diamine oxidase activity, and increased the expression level of ZO-1 and occludin in the jejunum and ileum (p < 0.05), the relative abundance of Firmicutes, Lactobacillus, and Limoslactobacillus in the colon were increased (p < 0.05), whereas that of Streptococcus and Escherichia-Shigella were reduced (p < 0.05). These results indicated that dietary supplementation with 500 mg/kg CAP could improve the growth performance, reduce the diarrhea rate, improve the serum immunity, intestinal health of nursery pigs.

Exploring fermentation with lactic acid bacteria as a pretreatment for enhancing antioxidant potential in broccoli stem powders

Fruit and vegetable industries face a major environmental challenge with food loss and waste. Broccoli stems, comprising 38% of the plant's total weight, are usually discarded by the industry producing fourth-range and ready-to-use products, despite being rich in antioxidants, vitamins, fiber, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and glucosinolates. Addressing the challenge of reducing waste in this sector includes the production of stable and nutrient-concentrated powders, which can be consumed directly or used as ingredients in functional food formulation. This study investigated fermentation with lactic acid bacteria (Limosilactobacillus reuteri, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus salivarius) as a pretreatment for enhancing antioxidant and probiotic potential in broccoli stem powders. Results showed maximum counts 24 h after inoculation, and no effect of the previous disruption intensity on microbial growth was observed. Fermenting broccoli stems for 24 h with the three microbial strains led to a significant increase in total phenols and flavonoids but to a general reduction in the samples' capacity to scavenge DPPH and ABTS free radicals. Overall, ground broccoli stems exhibited the most favorable antioxidant properties following the 24 h fermentation step. The subsequent freeze-drying and final grinding had minimal impact on the microbial population but significantly enhanced the extractability of the antioxidant compounds. This study offers a valuable reference for researchers and stakeholders exploring the development of new products and innovations from vegetable waste.

Time series of chicken stool metagenomics and egg metabolomics in changing production systems: preliminary insights from a proof-of-concept

BACKGROUND

Different production systems of livestock animals influence various factors, including the gut microbiota.

METHODS

We investigated whether changing the conditions from barns to free-range chicken farming impacts the microbiome over the course of three weeks. We compared the stool microbiota of chicken from industrial barns after introducing them either in community or separately to a free-range environment.

RESULTS

Over the six time points, 12 taxa-mostly lactobacilli-changed significantly. As expected, the former barn chicken cohort carries more resistances to common antibiotics. These, however, remained positive over the observed period. At the end of the study, we collected eggs and compared metabolomic profiles of the egg white and yolk to profiles of eggs from commercial suppliers. Here, we observed significant differences between commercial and fresh collected eggs as well as differences between the former barn chicken and free-range chicken.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that the gut microbiota can undergo alterations over time in response to changes in production systems. These changes subsequently exert an influence on the metabolites found in the eggs. The preliminary results of our proof-of-concept study motivate larger scale observations with more individual chicken and longer observation periods.

In vitro fermentation characteristics of polysaccharides from coix seed and its effects on the gut microbiota

Coix seed polysaccharides had received increasing attention due to their diverse biological activities. In this study, a homogeneous polysaccharide (CSPW) was extracted and purified from coix seed. Furthermore, the saliva-gastrointestinal digestion and fecal fermentation behavior of CSPW were simulated in vitro. The results showed that CSPW was mainly composed of glucose. It cannot be degraded by the simulated salivary and intestinal digestive system, but can be degraded by the simulated gastric digestive system. After fermentation for 24 h, CSPW promoted the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), with acetic acid, propionic acid and n-butyric acid being the main metabolites. In addition, CSPW could significantly regulate the composition and microbial diversity of gut microbiota by increasing the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Limosilicactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Collinsella. Finally, further analysis of functional prediction revealed that amino acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism were the most important pathways for CSPW to promote health. In summary, our findings suggested that CSPW could potentially be used as a good source of prebiotics because it can be used by gut microbiota to produce SCFAs and regulate the gut microbiota.

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

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

Limosilactobacillus reuteri BIO7251 administration improves metabolic phenotype in obese mice fed a high fat diet: an inter-organ crosstalk between gut, adipose tissue and nervous system

Gut microbiota is implicated in the control of host physiology by releasing bioactive actors that could exert a direct or indirect effect on tissue. A dysfunction of the gut microbiota to tissue axis could participate in the development of pathological states such as obesity and diabetes. The aim of this study was to identify the metabolic effect of Limosilactobacillus reuteri (known as Lactobacillus reuteri) BIO7251 (L. reuteri BIO7251) isolated from Corsican clementine orange. Body weight gain, adiposity, glucose tolerance, glucose absorption and food intake were measured in mice fed a high-fat diet in response to a preventive oral administration of L. reuteri BIO7251. This strain of bacteria exerts a beneficial effect on body weight gain by decreasing the subcutaneous adipose tissue mass. The treatment with L. reuteri BIO7251 decreases glucose absorption and food intake in obese/diabetic mice. L. reuteri BIO7251 could be tested as new probiotic strain that could manage body weight during obesity.

Ginkgo biloba Extract Drives Gut Flora and Microbial Metabolism Variation in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disease. Numerous investigations have demonstrated that medications that regulate the "brain-gut" axis can ameliorate disease symptoms of AD. Studies have shown that Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) is involved in intestinal metabolism to meet the goal of illness treatment. EGb is currently utilized extensively in the clinical prevention and treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. However, the regulatory effect of EGb on intestinal flora and its metabolites in AD pathology remains largely speculative. In this study, the Morris water maze test showed a significant improvement of spatial memory in the AD mouse model (APP/PS1 mice) after EGb treatment. We next confirmed the positive effects of EGb on the gut flora and metabolites of APP/PS1 mice and further showed that EGb treatment reshaped the disturbed gut microbiome, in particular by reducing the Firmicutes/Bacteroides ratio and increasing the abundance of Bacteroidetes, Uroviricota, Streptophyta, and Spirochaetes. Meanwhile, a non-targeted metabolomics analysis showed that EGb treatment significantly reversed the dysfunction of the microbial metabolic phenotype by altering Limosilactobacillus and Parvibacte, with 300 differential metabolites modulated (131 up-regulated, 169 down-regulated). Our findings highlight the significant regulatory impact of EGb on intestinal microflora and microbial metabolism in AD mice models and provide a potential therapeutic strategy for AD.

Superior performance of biofilm versus planktonic Limosilactobacillus reuteri in protection of the intestines and brain in a piglet model of necrotizing enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the leading cause of gastrointestinal-related death in premature infants. Its etiology is multifactorial, with intestinal dysbiosis playing a major role. Probiotics are a logical preventative therapy for NEC, however their benefits have been inconsistent. We previously developed a novel probiotic delivery system in which planktonic (free-living) Limosilactobacillus reuteri (Lr) is incubated with biocompatible dextranomer microspheres (DM) loaded with maltose (Lr-DM-maltose) to induce biofilm formation. Here we have investigated the effects of Lr-DM-maltose in an enteral feed-only piglet model of NEC. We found a significant decrease in the incidence of Definitive NEC (D-NEC), death associated with D-NEC, and activated microglia in the brains of piglets treated with Lr-DM-maltose compared to non-treated piglets. Microbiome analyses using 16S rRNA sequencing of colonic contents revealed a significantly different microbial community composition between piglets treated with Lr-DM-maltose compared to non-treated piglets, with an increase in Lactobacillaceae and a decrease in Clostridiaceae in Lr-DM-maltose-treated piglets. Furthermore, there was a significant decrease in the incidence of D-NEC between piglets treated with Lr-DM-maltose compared to planktonic Lr. These findings validate our previous results in rodents, and support future clinical trials of Lr in its biofilm state for the prevention of NEC in premature neonates.

Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 reverses gut metabolic dysfunction induced by Western diet in adult rats

Introduction

Microencapsulation of probiotic bacteria is an efficient and innovative new technique aimed at preserving bacterial survival in the hostile conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. However, understanding whether a microcapsule preserves the effectiveness of the bacterium contained within it is of fundamental importance.

Methods

Male Wistar rats aged 90 days were fed a control diet or a Western diet for 8 weeks, with rats fed the Western diet divided into three groups: one receiving the diet only (W), the second group receiving the Western diet and free L. reuteri DSM 17938 (WR), and the third group receiving the Western diet and microencapsulated L. reuteri DSM 17938 (WRM). After 8 weeks of treatment, gut microbiota composition was evaluated, together with occludin, one of the tight junction proteins, in the ileum and the colon. Markers of inflammation were also quantified in the portal plasma, ileum, and colon, as well as markers for gut redox homeostasis.

Results

The Western diet negatively influenced the intestinal microbiota, with no significant effect caused by supplementation with free and microencapsulated L. reuteri. However, L. reuteri, in both forms, effectively preserved the integrity of the intestinal barrier, thus protecting enterocytes from the development of inflammation and oxidative stress.

Conclusion

From these whole data, it emerges that L. reuteri DSM 17938 can be an effective probiotic in preventing the unhealthy consequences of the Western diet, especially in the gut, and that microencapsulation preserves the probiotic effects, thus opening the formulation of new preparations to be able to improve gut function independent of dietary habits.

Sinapic acid alleviates inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) through localization of tight junction proteins by direct binding to TAK1 and improves intestinal microbiota

Introduction: Although sinapic acid is found in various edible plants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties including colitis, its underlying mechanism and effects on the composition of the gut microbiota are largely unknown. We aimed to identify an early response kinase that regulates the localization of tight junction proteins, act at the onset of the inflammatory response, and is regulated by sinapic acid. Additionally, we analyzed the effects of sinapic acid on the homeostasis of the intestinal microbiome. Methods: We examined the aberrant alterations of early response genes such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and activating transcription factor (ATF)-2 within 2 h of sinapic acid treatment in fully differentiated Caco-2 cells with or without lipopolysaccharide and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α stimulation. To confirm the effect of sinapic acid on stimulus-induced delocalization of tight junction proteins, including zonula occludens (ZO)-1, occludin, and claudin-2, all tight junction proteins were investigated by analyzing a fraction of membrane and cytosol proteins extracted from Caco-2 cells and mice intestines. Colitis was induced in C57BL/6 mice using 2% dextran sulfate sodium and sinapic acid (2 or 10 mg/kg/day) was administrated for 15 days. Furthermore, the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical activities of sinapic acid for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) evaluated. Results: We confirmed that sinapic acid significantly suppressed the stimulus-induced delocalization of tight junction proteins from the intestinal cell membrane and abnormal intestinal permeability as well as the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1β and TNF-α in vitro and in vivo. Sinapic acid was found to bind directly to transforming growth factor beta-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) and inhibit the stimulus-induced activation of NF-κB as well as MAPK/ATF-2 pathways, which in turn regulated the expression of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MLCK). Dietary sinapic acid also alleviated the imbalanced of gut microbiota and symptoms of IBD, evidenced by improvements in the length and morphology of the intestine in mice with colitis. Discussion: These findings indicate that sinapic acid may be an effective nutraceutical and pharmaceutical agent for IBD treatment as it targets TAK1 and inhibits subsequent NF-κB and ATF-2 signaling.

Elucidating the Mechanisms of Cell-to-Cell Crosstalk in Probiotics Co-culture: A Proteomics Study of Limosilactobacillus reuteri ZJ625 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius ZJ614

Limosilactobacillus reuteri ZJ625 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius ZJ614 are potential probiotic bacteria with improved benefits when administered to the host as a multi-strain preparation. To elucidate the mechanisms of cell-to-cell crosstalk between these two strains, we studied their intracellular and extracellular proteomes in co-culture by liquid-chromatography mass-spectrometry (LC-MS) using Dionex Nano-RSLC and fusion mass spectrometer. The experiment consisted of five biological replicates, and samples were collected during the mid-exponential growth phase. The quantitative proteomic profiles revealed several differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), which are down- or up-regulated between and within groups for both the intracellular and extracellular proteomes. These DEPs include proteins synthesising autoinducer-2, a sensor compound for cell-to-cell bacterial crosstalk during quorum sensing in mixed culture. Other important DEPs identified include enolase, phosphoglycerate kinase, and l-lactate dehydrogenase, which play roles in carbohydrate metabolism. Proteins associated with transcription, ATP production and transport across the membrane, DNA repair, and those with the potential to bind to the host epithelium were also identified. The post-translational modifications associated with the proteins include oxidation, deamidation, and ammonia loss. Importantly, this study revealed a significant expression of S-ribosylhomocysteine lyase (luxS) involved in synthesising autoinducer-2 that plays important roles in quorum sensing, aiding bacterial cell-to-cell crosstalk in co-cultures. The proteome of L. salivarius ZJ614 was most affected when co-cultured with L. reuteri ZJ625. In contrast, omitting some medium components from the defined medium exerted more effects on L. reuteri ZJ625 than L. salivarius ZJ614.

Beneficial Effects of Limosilactobacillus reuteri PBS072 and Bifidobacterium breve BB077 on Mood Imbalance, Self-Confidence, and Breastfeeding in Women during the First Trimester Postpartum

Background: The post-delivery period could be characterized by psychological distress (e.g., anxiety, sadness, and irritability), leading to postpartum depression (PPD). Objective: The present clinical study assesses the effect of probiotic supplementation containing Limosilactobacillus reuteri PBS072 and Bifidobacterium breve BB077 (4 × 109 CFU/day) on the mother's mood and breastfeeding quality during the first trimester after delivery. Methods: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled (RDBPC) trial was carried out on 200 healthy new mothers divided into an active group taking a supplement containing Limosilactobacillus reuteri PBS072 and Bifidobacterium breve BB077 (4 × 109 CFU/day) plus multivitamins and a control group (multivitamin complex only) for 90 days. Symptoms related to maternal depression and breastfeeding quality were evaluated at days 45 and 90 using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF). Results: At days 45 and 90, the probiotic treatment significantly ameliorated the mothers' mood compared to the control treatment (p < 0.001). Likewise, the breastfeeding quality and the baby's cries significantly improved in the probiotic group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Microbiota alterations could influence a post-delivery woman's mental state. According to our results, L. reuteri PBS072 and B. breve BB077 are potential candidates that are able to improve stress resilience in the postpartum period.

Probiotic-Derived Ecto-5'-Nucleotidase Produces Anti-Inflammatory Adenosine Metabolites in Treg-Deficient Scurfy Mice

Probiotic Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (DSM 17938) prolongs the survival of Treg-deficient scurfy (SF) mice and reduces multiorgan inflammation by a process requiring adenosine receptor 2A (A2A) on T cells. We hypothesized that L. reuteri-derived ecto-5'-nucleotidase (ecto-5'NT) activity acts to generate adenosine, which may be a central mediator for L. reuteri protection in SF mice. We evaluated DSM 17938-5'NT activity and the associated adenosine and inosine levels in plasma, gut, and liver of SF mice. We examined orally fed DSM 17938, DSM 17938Δ5NT (with a deleted 5'NT gene), and DSM 32846 (BG-R46) (a naturally selected strain derived from DSM 17938). Results showed that DSM 17938 and BG-R46 produced adenosine while "exhausting" AMP, whereas DSM 17938∆5NT did not generate adenosine in culture. Plasma 5'NT activity was increased by DSM 17938 or BG-R46, but not by DSM 17938Δ5NT in SF mice. BG-R46 increased both adenosine and inosine levels in the cecum of SF mice. DSM 17938 increased adenosine levels, whereas BG-R46 increased inosine levels in the liver. DSM 17938Δ5NT did not significantly change the levels of adenosine or inosine in the GI tract or the liver of SF mice. Although regulatory CD73+CD8+ T cells were decreased in spleen and blood of SF mice, these regulatory T cells could be increased by orally feeding DSM 17938 or BG-R46, but not DSM 17938Δ5NT. In conclusion, probiotic-5'NT may be a central mediator of DSM 17938 protection against autoimmunity. Optimal 5'NT activity from various probiotic strains could be beneficial in treating Treg-associated immune disorders in humans.

Understanding the mechanisms and translational implications of the microbiome for cancer therapy innovation

The intersection of the microbiota and cancer and the mechanisms that define these interactions are a fascinating, rapidly evolving area of cancer biology and therapeutics. Here we present recent insights into the mechanisms by which specific bacteria or their communities contribute to carcinogenesis and discuss the bidirectional interplay between microbiota and host gene or epigenome signaling. We conclude with comments on manipulation of the microbiota for the therapeutic benefit of patients with cancer.

Probiotic-derived ecto-5'-nucleotidase produces anti-inflammatory adenosine metabolites in Treg-deficient scurfy mice

Probiotic Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (DSM 17938) prolonges the survival of Treg-deficient scurfy (SF) mice and reduces multiorgan inflammation by a process requiring adenosine receptor 2A (A _2A ) on T cells. We hypothesized that L. reuteri -derived ecto-5'-nucleotidase (ecto-5'NT) activity acts to generate adenosine, which may be a central mediator for L. reuteri protection in SF mice. We evaluated DSM 17938-5'NT activity and the associated adenosine and inosine levels in plasma, gut and liver of SF mice. We examined orally fed DSM 17938, DSM 17938Δ5NT (with a deleted 5'NT gene), and DSM 32846 (BG-R46) (a naturally selected strain derived from DSM 17938). Results showed that DSM 17938 and BG-R46 produced adenosine while "exhausting" AMP, whereas DSM 17938∆5NT did not generate adenosine in culture. Plasma 5'NT activity was increased by DSM 17938 or BG-R46, but not by DSM 17938Δ5NT in SF mice. BG-R46 increased both adenosine and inosine levels in the cecum of SF mice. DSM 17938 increased adenosine levels, whereas BG-R46 increased inosine levels in the liver. DSM 17938Δ5NT did not significantly change the levels of adenosine or inosine in the GI tract or the liver of SF mice. Although regulatory CD73 ⁺ CD8 ⁺ T cells were decreased in spleen and blood of SF mice, these regulatory T cells could be increased by orally feeding DSM 17938 or BG-R46, but not DSM 17938Δ5NT. In conclusion, probiotic-5'NT may be a central mediator of DSM 17938 protection against autoimmunity. Optimal 5'NT activity from various probiotic strains could be beneficial in treating Treg-associated immune disorders in humans.

Special Issue “Probiotics and Their Metabolism”: Editorial

As a general theory, the benefits of probiotics to human health and the prevention of disease are promoted by metabolites, which include antimicrobial compounds, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), organic acids, and bio-actives [...]

In Vitro Characterization of Limosilactobacillus reuteri Lac Ib01 (OL468126.1) Isolated from Traditional Sheep Dry Sausage and Evaluation of the Activity of Arthrospira platensis or Phycocyanin on Its Growth-Promoting Ability

The positive impact of probiotic strains on human health is more evident than ever. To achieve the beneficial health effects and desirable functional properties of probiotics, sufficient numbers of these microorganisms must reach the intestinal tract with high survival rates. The purpose of this study was to identify and characterize a novel strain of Limosilactobacillus reuteri isolated from traditional sheep dry sausage and evaluate its growth-promoting ability with the addition of Arthrospira platensis or phycocyanin extract. In vitro experimental approaches were conducted to determine the physiological features of the candidate probiotic isolate, including biochemical identification, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, tolerance assays to acid and bile salts, antimicrobial activities, adherence ability, and antiproliferative assays. The effects of A. platensis or phycocyanin (0, 1, 5, and 8 mg/mL) on the growth of probiotic cultures were studied after 0, 24, 48, and 72 h. Our results showed that the isolated Limosilactobacillus reuteri (OL468126.1) possesses desirable characteristics as a probiotic candidate and can, therefore, be used as an ingredient in functional foods. Furthermore, A. platensis and phycocyanin extract have great potential for enhancing the growth and prolonging the stationary phase of isolated probiotics. Our findings showed that phycocyanin extract not only plays the role of a natural pigment but also acts as a growth promoter of probiotics.