Probiotic Formulations Containing Fixed and Essential Oils Ameliorates SIBO-Induced Gut Dysbiosis in Rats

New Insights into Chronic Pancreatitis: Potential Mechanisms Related to Probiotics

Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive fibroinflammatory disorder with no currently satisfactory treatment. Emerging evidence suggests an association between gut microbial dysbiosis and chronic pancreatitis. Although direct causative evidence is lacking, it is hypothesized that the gut microbiota may play a pivotal role in modulating pancreatic function via the gut-pancreas axis. Thus, modulating the gut microbiota through the administration of probiotics or prebiotics may alleviate pancreatic disorders. In this review, we first propose the potential mechanisms by which specific probiotics or prebiotics may ameliorate chronic pancreatitis, including the alleviation of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), the facilitation of short-chain fatty acids' (SCFAs) production, and the activation of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptors (GLP-1Rs) in the pancreas. Since there are currently no probiotics or prebiotics used for the treatment of chronic pancreatitis, we discuss research in other disease models that have used probiotics or prebiotics to modulate pancreatic endocrine and exocrine functions and prevent pancreatic fibrosis. This provides indirect evidence for their potential application in the treatment of chronic pancreatitis. We anticipate that this research will stimulate further investigation into the gut-pancreas axis and the potential therapeutic value of probiotics and prebiotics in chronic pancreatitis.

Gastrointestinal problems in a valproic acid-induced rat model of autism: From maternal intestinal health to offspring intestinal function

BACKGROUND

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by social deficits and repetitive behavior. Gastrointestinal (GI) problems, such as constipation, diarrhea, and inflammatory bowel disease, commonly occur in patients with ASD. Previously, GI problems of ASD patients were attributed to intestinal inflammation and vertical mother-to-infant microbiome transmission.

AIM

To explore whether GI problems in ASD are related to maternal intestinal inflammation and gut microbiota abnormalities.

METHODS

An ASD rat model was developed using valproic acid (VPA). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and fecal 16S rRNA sequencing were used to test GI changes.

RESULTS

VPA exposure during pregnancy led to pathological maternal intestinal changes, resulting in alterations in maternal gut microbiota. Additionally, the levels of inflammatory factors also increased. Moreover, prenatal exposure to VPA resulted in impaired duodenal motility in the offspring as well as increased levels of inflammatory factors.

CONCLUSION

GI problems in ASD may be associated with maternal intestinal inflammation and microbiota abnormality. Future research is required to find more evidence on the etiology and treatment of GI problems in ASD.

Human nasal microbiota shifts in healthy and chronic respiratory disease conditions

BACKGROUND

An increasing number of studies investigate various human microbiotas and their roles in the development of diseases, maintenance of health states, and balanced signaling towards the brain. Current data demonstrate that the nasal microbiota contains a unique and highly variable array of commensal bacteria and opportunistic pathogens. However, we need to understand how to harness current knowledge, enrich nasal microbiota with beneficial microorganisms, and prevent pathogenic developments.

RESULTS

In this study, we have obtained nasal, nasopharyngeal, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples from healthy volunteers and patients suffering from chronic respiratory tract diseases for full-length 16 S rRNA sequencing analysis using Oxford Nanopore Technologies. Demographic and clinical data were collected simultaneously. The microbiome analysis of 97 people from Lithuania suffering from chronic inflammatory respiratory tract disease and healthy volunteers revealed that the human nasal microbiome represents the microbiome of the upper airways well.

CONCLUSIONS

The nasal microbiota of patients was enriched with opportunistic pathogens, which could be used as indicators of respiratory tract conditions. In addition, we observed that a healthy human nasal microbiome contained several plant- and bee-associated species, suggesting the possibility of enriching human nasal microbiota via such exposures when needed. These candidate probiotics should be investigated for their modulating effects on airway and lung epithelia, immunogenic properties, neurotransmitter content, and roles in maintaining respiratory health and nose-brain interrelationships.

Diagnosis and Management of Gastrointestinal Manifestations in Children with Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is primarily known for its pulmonary consequences, which are extensively explored in the existing literature. However, it is noteworthy that individuals with CF commonly display gastrointestinal (G-I) manifestations due to the substantial presence of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein in the intestinal tract. Recognized as pivotal nonpulmonary aspects of CF, G-I manifestations exhibit a diverse spectrum. Identifying and effectively managing these manifestations are crucial for sustaining health and influencing the overall quality of life for CF patients. This review aims to synthesize existing knowledge, providing a comprehensive overview of the G-I manifestations associated with CF. Each specific G-I manifestation, along with the diagnostic methodologies and therapeutic approaches, is delineated, encompassing the impact of innovative treatments targeting the fundamental effects of CF on the G-I tract. The findings underscore the imperative for prompt diagnosis and meticulous management of G-I manifestations, necessitating a multidisciplinary team approach for optimal care and enhancement of the quality of life for affected individuals. In conclusion, the authors emphasize the urgency for further clinical studies to establish a more robust evidence base for managing G-I symptoms within the context of this chronic disease. Such endeavors are deemed essential for advancing understanding and refining the clinical care of CF patients with G-I manifestations.