The Trajectory of Successful Aging: Insights from Metagenome and Cytokine Profiling

INTRODUCTION

The longevity is influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The specific changes that occur in the gut microbiome during the aging process, and their relationship to longevity and immune function, have not yet been fully understood. The ongoing research of other microbiome based on longevity cohort in Kazakhstan provides preliminary information on longevity-related aging, where cytokine expression is associated with specific microbial communities and microbial functions.

METHODS

Metagenomic shotgun sequencing study of 40 long-lived individuals aged 90 years and over was carried out, who were conditionally healthy and active, able to serve themselves, without a history of serious infection and cancer, who had not taken any antimicrobials, including probiotics. Blood serum was analyzed for clinical and laboratory characteristics. The cytokine and chemokine profile in serum and stool samples was assessed using multiplex analysis.

RESULTS

We found a significant increase in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1a, IL-6, 12p70, IP-10, IFNα2, IL-15, TNFa, as well as chemokines MIP-1a/CCL3 and MIP-1b/CCL4, chemokine motif ligands MCP-3/CCL7 and MDC/CCL22(1c). Nonagenerians and centenarians demonstrated a greater diversity of core microbiota genera and showed an elevated prevalence of the genera Bacteroides, Clostridium, Escherichia, and Alistipes. Conversely, there was a decrease in the abundance of the genera Ruminococcus, Fusicatenibacter, Dorea, as well as the species Fusicatenibacter saccharivorans. Furthermore, functional analysis revealed that the microbiome in long-lived group has a high capacity for lipid metabolism, amino acid degradation, and potential signs of chronic inflammatory status.

CONCLUSION

Long-lived individuals exhibit an immune system imbalance and observed changes in the composition of the gut microbiota at the genus level between to the two age-groups. Age-related changes in the gut microbiome, metabolic functions of the microbial community, and chronic inflammation all contribute to immunosenescence. In turn, the inflammatory state and microbial composition of the gut is related to nutritional status.

Double-Negative T (DNT) Cells in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Double-negative T (DNT) cells are a rare and unconventional T-lymphocyte subpopulation lacking both CD4 and CD8 markers. Their immunopathological roles and clinical relevance have yet to be elucidated. Beyond autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS), these cells may also play a role in rheumatic disorders, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); indeed, these two diseases share several autoimmune manifestations (including nephritis). Moreover, one of the main experimental murine models used to investigate lupus, namely the MRL/lpr mouse, is characterized by an expansion of DNT cells, which can support the production of pathogenic autoantibodies and/or modulate the immune response in this context. However, lupus murine models are not completely consistent with their human SLE counterpart, of course. In this mini review, we summarize and analyze the most relevant clinical studies investigating the DNT cell population in SLE patients. Overall, based on the present literature review and analysis, DNT cell homeostasis seems to be altered in patients with SLE. Indeed, most of the available clinical studies (which include both adults and children) reported an increased DNT cell percentage in SLE patients, especially during the active phases, even though no clear correlation with disease activity and/or inflammatory parameters has been clearly established. Well-designed, standardized, and longitudinal clinical studies focused on DNT cell population are needed, in order to further elucidate the actual contribution of these cells in SLE pathogenesis and their interactions with other immune cells (also implicated and/or altered in SLE, such as basophils), and clarify whether their expansion and/or immunophenotypic aspects may have any immunopathological relevance (and, then, represent potential disease markers and, in perspective, even therapeutic targets) or are just an unspecific epiphenomenon of autoimmunity.

Unraveling Acute and Post-COVID Cytokine Patterns to Anticipate Future Challenges

The aims of this study were to analyze cytokine profiles in patients with COVID-19, gain insights into the immune response during acute infection, identify cytokines associated with disease severity and post-COVID complications, and explore potential biomarkers for prognosis and therapeutic targets. Using a multiplex analysis, we studied the cytokine pattern in 294 acute COVID-19 and post-COVID patients with varying severities of infection. Our findings revealed that disease severity was associated with elevated levels of IL-15, IL-8, and fractalkine. Severe/extremely severe forms in comparison with mild/moderate disease were associated with MCP-1, IFNa2, IL-7, IL-15, EGF, IP-10, IL-8, Eotaxin, FGF-2, GROa, sCD40L, and IL-10. The key cytokines of post-COVID are FGF-2, VEGF-A, EGF, IL-12(p70), IL-13, and IL-6. By the sixth month after recovering from a coronavirus infection, regardless of disease severity, some patients may develop complications such as arterial hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, glucose intolerance, thyrotoxicosis, atherosclerosis, and rapid progression of previously diagnosed conditions. Each complication is characterized by distinct cytokine profiles. Importantly, these complications can also be predicted during the acute phase of the coronavirus infection. Understanding cytokine patterns can aid in predicting disease progression, identifying high-risk patients, and developing targeted interventions to improve the outcomes of COVID-19.

Compositional and functional variability of the gut microbiome in children with infantile colic

The inconsolable crying of a child for no apparent reason at an early age is a source of excitement and anxiety for parents. Previous studies have reported that crying may be caused by discomfort associated with the occupation of the intestines of the newborn by microbiota and its vital activity. We conducted a prospective observational study in which 62 newborns and their mothers were recruited. The study comprised two groups, each consisting of 15 infants with colic and 21 controls. Colic and control groups were vaginally born and exclusively breastfed. Fecal samples from children were collected over time from day 1 to 12 months. Full metagenomic sequencing of fecal samples from children and their mothers was carried out. It was determined that the trajectory of the development of the intestinal microbiome of children with colic was different from the group without colic. In the colic group, a depleted relative abundance of Bifidobacterium and enrichment of Bacteroides Clostridiales was found, while the microbial biodiversity in this group was enriched. Metabolic pathway profiling showed that the non-colic group was enriched by amino acid biosynthetic pathways, while the feces microbiome of the colic group was enriched by glycolysis metabolic pathways that correlated with the Bacteroides taxon. This study shows that infantile colic has a definite relationship with the microbiome structure of infants.

Oral Microbial Signature of Rheumatoid Arthritis in Female Patients

This study aimed to identify the oral microbial signature of Kazakh female rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. A total of 75 female patients who met the American College of Rheumatology 2010 classification criteria for RA and 114 healthy volunteers were included in the study. Amplicons of the 16S rRNA gene were sequenced to analyze the microbial composition. We identified significant differences in bacterial diversity and abundance between the RA and control groups, as measured by Shannon (p value = 0.0205) and Simpson (p value = 0.00152) indices. The oral samples from RA patients had higher bacterial diversity than those from non-RA volunteers. The RA samples had a higher relative abundance of Prevotellaceae and Leptotrichiaceae, but a lower content of butyrate and propionate-producing bacteria compared to the control group. The samples from patients in remission had a higher abundance of Treponema sp. and Absconditabacteriales (SR1), whereas those with low disease activity had higher levels of Porphyromonas and those with high RA activity had higher levels of Staphylococcus. A positive correlation was found between the taxa Prevotella_9 and serum levels of antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide (ACPA) and rheumatoid factor (RF). The predicted functional pattern of the ACPA+/RF- and ACPA+/RF+ seropositive groups was characterized by increased ascorbate metabolism, degradation of glycosaminoglycans, and reduced biodegradation of xenobiotics. These findings suggest that the functional pattern of the microflora should be considered when selecting a therapeutic strategy for RA in order to provide a personalized approach.

Study of gut microbiota alterations in Alzheimer's dementia patients from Kazakhstan

We have investigated the diversity and composition of gut microbiotas isolated from AD (Alzheimer's disease) patients (n = 41) and healthy seniors (n = 43) from Nur-Sultan city (Kazakhstan). The composition of the gut microbiota was characterized by 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing. Our results demonstrated significant differences in bacterial abundance at phylum, class, order, and genus levels in AD patients compared to healthy aged individuals. Relative abundance analysis has revealed increased amount of taxa belonging to Acidobacteriota, Verrucomicrobiota, Planctomycetota and Synergistota phyla in AD patients. Among bacterial genera, microbiotas of AD participants were characterized by a decreased amount of Bifidobacterium, Clostridia bacterium, Castellaniella, Erysipelotrichaceae UCG-003, Roseburia, Tuzzerella, Lactobacillaceae and Monoglobus. Differential abundance analysis determined enriched genera of Christensenellaceae R-7 group, Prevotella, Alloprevotella, Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group, Ruminococcus, Flavobacterium, Ohtaekwangia, Akkermansia, Bacteroides sp. Marseille-P3166 in AD patients, whereas Levilactobacillus, Lactiplantibacillus, Tyzzerella, Eubacterium siraeum group, Monoglobus, Bacteroides, Erysipelotrichaceae UCG-003, Veillonella, Faecalibacterium, Roseburia, Haemophilus were depleted. We have also found correlations between some bacteria taxa and blood serum biochemical parameters. Adiponectin was correlated with Acidimicrobiia, Faecalibacterium, Actinobacteria, Oscillospiraceae, Prevotella and Christensenellaceae R-7. The Christensenellaceae R-7 group and Acidobacteriota were correlated with total bilirubin, while Firmicutes, Acidobacteriales bacterium, Castellaniella alcaligenes, Lachnospiraceae, Christensenellaceae and Klebsiella pneumoniae were correlated with the level of CRP in the blood of AD patients. In addition, we report the correlations found between disease severity and certain fecal bacteria. This is the first reported study demonstrating gut microbiota alterations in AD in the Central Asian region.

Digestive System and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2: New Era of Microbiome Study and Gastrointestinal Tract Manifestations during the Coronavirus Disease-19 Pandemic

Main focuses of the review were that during the pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 were gastrointestinal disorders were accompanying.  Viral RNA and viral particles are found in feces for more than 30 days. Although SARS-CoV-2 primarily causes lung infection through binding to ACE2 receptors, intestinal epithelial cells, especially enterocytes of the small intestine, also express ACE2 receptors. It is also known that a respiratory viral infection causes disturbances in the gut microbiota. Diet, environmental factors, and genetics play an important role in the formation of gut microbiota, which can affect immunity. The diversity of gut microbiota diminishes in old age, and Covid-19 has been mostly fatal in older patients, further indicating the role that gut microbiota may play in this disease. It is therefore plausible that the gut microbiota could be a new therapeutic target and that probiotics could have a role in the management of these patients.

Screening of Antimicrobial and Adhesive Activity of Lactobacilli Isolated from the National Food Products from Different Districts of the Karaganda Region (Kazakhstan)

BACKGROUND: It is a national priority to look for new probiotic bacteria with highly active biological properties to create a new generation of probiotics, ferments, therapeutic, and prophylactic fermented milk products, taking into account ethnocultural and regional characteristics. AIM: The aim of the study is to assess probiotic properties of strains of lactobacilli (antimicrobial and adhesive), which are isolated from national lactic acid products from different districts of the Karaganda region (Kazakhstan). MATERIALS AND METHODS: There were modern microbiological methods applied during the experiment. To determine the morpho-cultural properties, the following methods were used: Gram staining, a catalase test, serial dilutions. The Matrix Supported Laser Desorption/Ionization Flight Time Mass Spectrometry was used for identification, and the deferred-antagonism method was used to determine the antimicrobial activity. The buccal epithelial cells were used for the cell object as a test system to determine the adhesive activity. RESULTS: In this experiment, 26 lactobacillus isolates were isolated from 68 samples of national lactic acid products produced in a traditional homemade way in different districts of the Karaganda region (Kazakhstan). As a result of the studies carried out on the cultural and morphological characteristics and identification by the mass spectrometer, the following lactobacilli were obtained: Lactobacillus acidophilus (two strains), Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricum (two strains), Lactobacillus rhamnosus (seven strains), Lactobacillus plantarum (two strains), Lactobacillus paracasei (11 strains), and Lactobacillus fermentum (two strains). Twenty-six isolates of lactobacilli were tested for antimicrobial activity, 13 isolates of which showed an inhibitory effect, but the degree of antagonism varied among lactobacillus isolates. In general, the inhibitory activity of lactobacillus isolates was shown against the Gram-negative indicator microorganisms Salmonella typhimurium NCTC 12023, Escherichia coli NCTC 12923. The antibacterial activity was shown against the Staphylococcus aureus NCTC 12973 indicator microorganism in nine isolates of lactobacilli. Only six isolates of lactobacilli showed antifungal activity against the test strain of Candida albicans NCPF 3179. Out of 13 isolates of lactobacilli, nine isolates of medium and high activity competed for binding to buccal epithelial cells. CONCLUSION: The obtained isolates from traditional dairy products are considered to be promising candidates and competitive isolates with some probiotic potential. This study calls for further researches to be made in this area.

Epidemiological Trends of Rheumatoid Arthritis and PADI4, PTPN22, and HLA-DRB9 Genes Distribution in the Kazakhstan Population

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is 1% in the global population. The lack of epidemiological studies in developing countries makes it difficult to obtain a complete global epidemiological picture of RA. RA develops due to the interaction of multiple genetic and environmental factors, though the contribution of these factors to the various disease occurrence seen in different populations is unclear. AIM: The aim of our study was to analyze the dynamics of the general prevalence and incidence of RA among the population of Kazakhstan in 2017–2019 as well as to investigate the three most common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of RA in the Kazakhstan population. METHODS: The analysis of statistical data on Form 12 “On the health of the people and the health care system” was carried out. Prevalence and incidence rates were calculated according to generally accepted rules. Demographic data for the Republic of Kazakhstan were obtained from the official website stat.gov.kz. Our study included 70 RA patients and 113 control subjects. Blood samples were collected and genotyped for peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PADI4), protein tyrosine phosphatase 22, and human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB9 SNPs by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: The prevalence of RA in Kazakhstan in 2017–2019 was 0.36–0.38%, with an incidence rate of 0.085–0.087%, which can be comparable to data of other countries in Central Asia. The allele and genotypes frequency analyses were carried out between patients and controls. The HLA-DRB9 showed significant association of the G allele odds ratio (OR) 1.96 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.252–3.081), p= 0.0025 and G/G genotype OR = 3.67 (95% CI: 1.58–8.54), p = 0.00162 with RA in our sample. Strong association between anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) profile and PADI4 (OR 12.19 [95% CI: 2.19–67.94], p = 0.00115) was found. CONCLUSION: There was an increase in RA prevalence with age among females and a higher crude prevalence and incidence of RA in the southern regions of Kazakhstan. HLA-DRB9 prevailed in Kazakhstani patients with RA, PADI4 showed association with ACPA-positive RA. Further studies on larger samples are required to confirm our obtained results.

Dynamic Changes in Microbiome Composition Following Mare's Milk Intake for Prevention of Collateral Antibiotic Effect

Introduction

Probiotics and prebiotics are widely used for recovery of the human gut microbiome after antibiotic treatment. High antibiotic usage is especially common in children with developing microbiome. We hypothesized that dry Mare’s milk, which is rich in biologically active substances without containing live bacteria, could be used as a prebiotic in promoting microbial diversity following antibiotic treatment in children. The present pilot study aims to determine the impacts of dry Mare’s milk on the diversity of gut bacterial communities when administered during antibiotic treatment and throughout the subsequent recovery phase.

Methods

Six children aged 4 to 5 years and diagnosed with bilateral bronchopneumonia were prescribed cephalosporin antibiotics. During the 60 days of the study, three children consumed dry Mare’s milk whereas the other three did not. Fecal samples were collected daily during antibiotic therapy and every 5 days after antibiotic therapy. Total DNA was isolated and taxonomic composition of gut microbiota was analyzed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. To assess the immune status of the gut, stool samples were analyzed by bead-based multiplex assays.

Results

Mare’s milk treatment seems to prevent the bloom of Mollicutes, while preventing the loss of Coriobacteriales. Immunological analysis of the stool reveals an effect of Mare’s milk on local immune parameters under the present conditions.

Psoriasis Is Associated With Elevated Gut IL-1α and Intestinal Microbiome Alterations

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition that predominantly affects the skin and is associated with extracutaneous disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease and arthritis. Changes in gut immunology and microbiota are important drivers of proinflammatory disorders and could play a role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Therefore, we explored whether psoriasis in a Central Asian cohort is associated with alterations in select immunological markers and/or microbiota of the gut.

Methods

We undertook a case-control study of stool samples collected from outpatients, aged 30-45 years, of a dermatology clinic in Kazakhstan presenting with plaque, guttate, or palmoplantar psoriasis (n = 20), and age-sex matched subjects without psoriasis (n = 20). Stool supernatant was subjected to multiplex ELISA to assess the concentration of 47 cytokines and immunoglobulins and to 16S rRNA gene sequencing to characterize microbial diversity in both psoriasis participants and controls.

Results

The psoriasis group tended to have higher concentrations of most analytes in stool (29/47 = 61.7%) and gut IL-1α was significantly elevated (4.19-fold, p = 0.007) compared to controls. Levels of gut IL-1α in the psoriasis participants remained significantly unaltered up to 3 months after the first sampling (p = 0.430). Psoriasis was associated with alterations in gut Firmicutes, including elevated Faecalibacterium and decreased Oscillibacter and Roseburia abundance, but no association was observed between gut microbial diversity or Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratios and disease status.

Conclusions

Psoriasis may be associated with gut inflammation and dysbiosis. Studies are warranted to explore the use of gut microbiome-focused therapies in the management of psoriasis in this under-studied population.

THE EFFECTS OF ANTIBIOTICS ON THE GUT MICROBIOME AND THE IMMUNE SYSTEM (Review)

Antibiotic resistance and its impact on human microbiome remains a global public health concern. Studies have shown that treatment with antibiotics leads to dramatic changes in composition and function of gut microbiome. This review focuses on the association between antibiotics use and its impact on gut microbiome of adults and children, gut microbiota metabolic interactions and presents the current understanding of the link between human gut microbiome and immune system.

Short-Chain Fatty Acid Propionate Protects From Hypertensive Cardiovascular Damage

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background:

Arterial hypertension and its organ sequelae show characteristics of T cell–mediated inflammatory diseases. Experimental anti-inflammatory therapies have been shown to ameliorate hypertensive end-organ damage. Recently, the CANTOS study (Canakinumab Antiinflammatory Thrombosis Outcome Study) targeting interleukin-1β demonstrated that anti-inflammatory therapy reduces cardiovascular risk. The gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in immune homeostasis and cardiovascular health. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are produced from dietary fiber by gut bacteria and affect host immune homeostasis. Here, we investigated effects of the SCFA propionate in 2 different mouse models of hypertensive cardiovascular damage.

Methods:

To investigate the effect of SCFAs on hypertensive cardiac damage and atherosclerosis, wild-type NMRI or apolipoprotein E knockout–deficient mice received propionate (200 mmol/L) or control in the drinking water. To induce hypertension, wild-type NMRI mice were infused with angiotensin II (1.44 mg·kg^–1·d^–1 subcutaneous) for 14 days. To accelerate the development of atherosclerosis, apolipoprotein E knockout mice were infused with angiotensin II (0.72 mg·kg^–1·d^–1 subcutaneous) for 28 days. Cardiac damage and atherosclerosis were assessed using histology, echocardiography, in vivo electrophysiology, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. Blood pressure was measured by radiotelemetry. Regulatory T cell depletion using PC61 antibody was used to examine the mode of action of propionate.

Results:

Propionate significantly attenuated cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, vascular dysfunction, and hypertension in both models. Susceptibility to cardiac ventricular arrhythmias was significantly reduced in propionate-treated angiotensin II–infused wild-type NMRI mice. Aortic atherosclerotic lesion area was significantly decreased in propionate-treated apolipoprotein E knockout–deficient mice. Systemic inflammation was mitigated by propionate treatment, quantified as a reduction in splenic effector memory T cell frequencies and splenic T helper 17 cells in both models, and a decrease in local cardiac immune cell infiltration in wild-type NMRI mice. Cardioprotective effects of propionate were abrogated in regulatory T cell–depleted angiotensin II–infused mice, suggesting the effect is regulatory T cell–dependent.

Conclusions:

Our data emphasize an immune-modulatory role of SCFAs and their importance for cardiovascular health. The data suggest that lifestyle modifications leading to augmented SCFA production could be a beneficial nonpharmacological preventive strategy for patients with hypertensive cardiovascular disease.

COMPARISON OF PHENOLIC CONTENT IN CABERNET SAUVIGNON AND SAPERAVI WINES

Several studies reveal that the phenolic compounds present in the wine and their concentrations determine physiological activities of the red wine. In this study, the main polyphenol components, including hydroxycinnamic acids, flavones, flavan-3-ols and stilbenoids, were investigated via HLPC-UV in the “Cabernet Sauvignon” and “Saperavi” wines selected from different regions and different years. In assistance of a meta-analysis, we found that there are no fundamental differences in phenolic compounds between the wines Cabernet Sauvignon and Saperavi. However, the amounts of several important phenolic materials such as catechin, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid and myricetin significantly higher in Saperavi wine as compared to Cabernet Sauvignon. Moreover, on the basis of the correlation analysis, we assume that flavones synthesis and regulation of stilbenoids coordinated to a greater extent in “Saperavi” than in “Cabernet Sauvignon”.

Mare's milk as a prospective functional product

Background: Food has a significant effect on the health of the body, the relationship between diet and health actualizes the importance of expanding the research of functional products. Kazakhstan has a huge potential for functional products, such as saumal, or mare's milk. Since ancient times saumal has been used as an antidote, since it has the ability to excrete toxins. Today it is used for pulmonary tuberculosis, anemia, rickets, diabetes mellitus, obesity, nerve diseases, inflammatory diseases of the stomach and intestines. Saumal is called a longevity drink.

Metagenomic analysis of gut microbial communities from a Central Asian population

OBJECTIVE

Changes in the gut microbiota are increasingly recognised to be involved in many diseases. This ecosystem is known to be shaped by many factors, including climate, geography, host nutrition, lifestyle and medication. Thus, knowledge of varying populations with different habits is important for a better understanding of the microbiome.

DESIGN

We therefore conducted a metagenomic analysis of intestinal microbiota from Kazakh donors, recruiting 84 subjects, including male and female healthy subjects and metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients aged 25-75 years, from the Kazakh administrative centre, Astana. We characterise and describe these microbiomes, the first deep-sequencing cohort from Central Asia, in comparison with a global dataset (832 individuals from five countries on three continents), and explore correlations between microbiota, clinical and laboratory parameters as well as with nutritional data from Food Frequency Questionnaires.

RESULTS

We observe that Kazakh microbiomes are relatively different from both European and East Asian counterparts, though similar to other Central Asian microbiomes, with the most striking difference being significantly more samples falling within the Prevotella-rich enterotype, potentially reflecting regional diet and lifestyle. We show that this enterotype designation remains stable within an individual over time in 82% of cases. We further observe gut microbiome features that distinguish MetS patients from controls (eg, significantly reduced Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio, Bifidobacteria and Subdoligranulum, alongside increased Prevotella), though these overlap little with previously published reports and thus may reflect idiosyncrasies of the present cohort.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, this exploratory study describes gut microbiome data from an understudied population, providing a starting point for further comparative work on biogeography and research on widespread diseases.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN37346212; Post-results.

Metagenomic Analysis of Koumiss in Kazakhstan

Introduction

Koumiss is a low-alcohol product made from fermented mare’s milk, which is popular in Kazakhstan, Russia, and other countries of Central Asia, China, and Mongolia. Natural mare’s milk is fermented in symbiosis of two types of microorganisms (lactobacteria and yeast). Koumiss’s microbial composition varies depending on the geographical, climatic, and cultural conditions. Based on a phenotypic characteristic from samples, Wu, R. and colleagues identified the following bacteria isolated in inner Mongolia, an autonomous region of China: L.casei, L.helveticus, L.plantarum, L.coryniformis subsp. coryniformis, L.paracasei, L.kefiranofaciens, L.curvatus, L.fermentum, and W.kandleri. Studies of the yeast composition in koumiss also showed significant variations. Thus, there were Saccharomyces unisporus related 48.3% of isolates, to Kluyveromyces marxianus (27.6%), Pichia membranaefaciens (15.0%), and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (9.2%) from 87 isolated yeast cultures. The purpose of this study was to examine the bacterial composition in koumiss.

Methods

To extract DNA, 1.8 ml of fermented milk was centrifuged to generate a pellet, which was suspended in 450 μl of lysis buffer P1 from the Powerfood Microbial DNA Isolation kit (MoBio Laboratories Inc, USA). Amplification of the microflora was used to determine the composition of a fragment of the gene 16S rRNA and ITS1. Plasmid library with target insertion was obtained on the basis of height copy plasmid vectors producing high pGem-T. The definition of direct nucleotide sequencing was performed by the method of Sanger using a set of “BigDye Terminanor v 3.1 Cycle sequencing Kit with automatic genetic analyzer ABI 3730xl (Applied Biosystems, USA). Informax Vector NTI Suite 9, Sequence Scanner v 1.0 software package used for the analysis.

Results

Our studies showed that in the most samples of koumiss isolated from Akmola region (Central Kazakhstan) prevailed the following bacteria species: Lactobacillus diolivorans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. casei, L. curvatus yeast genus Torula (62.4%) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (37.6%).

Conclusion

Thus, the first metagenomic research of koumiss, which was conducted in Kazakhstan, showed significant variations in microbial composition.

Lactobacillus for Vaginal Microflora Correction

Introduction

Despite the significant progress made in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, there is still a high rate of vaginal dysbiosis in Kazakh women. The use of antibiotics in the treatment of vaginal dysbiosis contributes to the elimination of pathogens as well as microflora, which can lead to a decrease in local immunity and more favorable conditions for infection spread. The most physiologically safe and promising method for the restoration of vaginal biocenosis is the use of probiotics administered by a vaginal route.

Methods

We have allocated 64 of cultures of Lactobacillus from the vaginal epithelium of healthy women of reproductive age and women with diagnosed bacterial vaginosis (BV). Identification of cultures was performed by PCR analysis of 16S ribosomal RNA. Evaluation of biological significance was determined by the following criteria: high antagonistic activity against Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella ozaenae, and Staphylococcus aureus; and production of hydrogen peroxide, resistance to antibiotics, adhesive activity. We studied the symbiotic relationship of selected biologically active of cultures to each other and received options for consortiums with properties of probiotics through co-cultivation.

Results

Results of genotyping showed that the isolated lactobacilli belong to the seven species: L. fermentum, L. salivarius, L. gasseri, L. crispatus, L. jensenii, L. plantarum, and L. delbrueskii. L. fermentum, L. salivarius, L. gasseri, and L. jensenii occur in women with suspected BV. The highest percentage of occurrence in the vagina of healthy women was L. fermentum (28%). Most strains of lactobacilli possess high inhibitory activity for all test-strains, except Candida albicans (37.5%). 56% of studied cultures revealed high adhesion to human erythrocytes. All lactobacillus strains were resistant to metronidazole, 80% to kanamycin, 57% to vancomycin, and sensitivity to roxithromycin, amoxiclav, ampicillin was diagnosed in all strains. 50% of cultures showed a moderate sensitivity to gentamicin and cefazolin. In a study of peroxide-producing activity, 80% of the cultures exhibited peroxide-producing activity. As a result of screening, the 7 most active strains of lactobacilli were selected for development of 10 variants of probiotic consortia. Also, there was increase of adhesive activity in the consortia compared to other components. These consortia can be used for the treatment of BV in addition to metronidazole.

Conclusion

The probiotic consortia identified in this study had high antagonistic, adhesive properties, and resistance to metronidazole. These probiotics can potentially be used for the development of biological products for the treatment and prevention of bacterial vaginosis.

The Probiotical Potential of Lactobacilli from Therapeutic Preventive Beverage Kurunga

Introduction

Kurunga is a dairy drink made of a mix of lactic acid and alcoholic fermentation, characterized by high biological value based on protein composition, amino acid spectrum, fatty acid composition of lipids, vitamin and mineral substances, and physiological activity of microbiota containing lactobacilli, lactococci, bifidobacteria, and yeast. Among the probiotic correctors of normal microbiota isolated from national products, lactobacilli was of particular interest, with regards to a therapeutic – preventive effect. The aim of the study was to examine the probiotic properties of lactobacilli from kurunga.

Methods

We isolated lactic acid bacteria strains from kurunga. The isolated cultures were identified using common microbiological methods and phylogenetic analysis. The antibiotic activities of these strains were determined by measuring the growth inhibition zone of test cultures. The probiotic properties were measured as levels of resistance to bile and hydrochloric acids, in addition to the presence of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity using the xanthine oxidase-cytochrome method. Proteolitic activity was determined at the various levels of pH (3.0, 4.2, 5.3, and 7.0).

Results

According to the morphological, cultural, physiological, biochemical properties and the genotypic analysis of the oligonucleotides sequence of specific genes, the most effective strain was identified as Lactobacillus diolivorans KL-2 (GenBank database KC438372). The isolated strain suppressed the growth of Gram-positive bacteria, such as Bacillus, Staphylococcus, and Listeria sp., as well as Gram-negative bacteria, such as E.coli, Proteus, Salmonella sp. They also possessed fungicidal action (based on Penicillum, Aspergillus sp, and Candida sp.). The strain was resistant to the action of the bile acids at concentrations of 0.8% to 1.0% and hydrochloric acid. The strain KL-2 possessed a relatively high SOD activity (25.74 U/mg of protein), a low proteolytic activity at a pH 3.0 (4.74·10-3 PU/ml), and high proteolytic activity at pH 4.2 (294.74·10-3 PU/ml), pH 5.3 (330.52·10-3 PU/ml) and pH 7.0 (713.68·10-3 PU/ml).

Conclusion

The unique properties of this strain, such as stability in the gastrointestinal tract, the wide spectrum of bactericidal and fungicidal action to the pathogenic species, the relatively high superoxide dismutase and proteolytic activities, and the absence of toxicity, make it a prime candidate for probiotic culturing.

Genotype frequencies of polymorphic MDR1 variants in the Kazakhstani population

Introduction

Statins appear to be handled by an ATP-dependent membrane transporter and three SNPs (C1236T (rs1128503), G2677T (rs2032582), and C3435T (rs1045642), which capture the common genetic variation at this locus. Individuals, who carry the T allele at each SNP (i.e., the T-T-T haplotype), have higher systemic exposure to simvastatin.

A triallelic thymine (T) - guanine (G) - adenine (A), which is a point mutation at nucleotide 2677 in exon 22, leads to ABCB1 in a non-synonymous codons (GCT alanine, TCT serine, threonine ACT) at position 893 in a cytoplasmic loop of ATP-dependent membrane transporters.

Methods

Blood samples from healthy individuals were collected in the Republican Diagnostic Center, Astana, Kazakhstan. The research samples included 461 healthy people. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood using the ‘salting out’ procedure. For the MDR1 exon 21, 2677G>T/A (Ala893Ser/Thr) polymorphism was genotyped by PCR sequencing by the use of dye-terminator (ABI 3730xl sequencer).

Results

The GG allele appeared in 23% of samples, the GA in 6.7%, the GT in 44%, the non-G heterozygote in 4.5%, and the non-G homozygote in 18%. These results are consistent with previously published data. Importantly, the frequency of 2677T alleles in our group was 15.4%. This represents the lowest frequency of this allele compared to published data in different populations. The frequency of the 2677T allele in Asians and Caucasians varies from 38 to 62%, and is 15% for African Americans. On the other hand, the 2677A allele frequency in the Japanese varies from 15 to 22%, and in Caucasians from 2% and 4%. The 2677A allele frequency has been found in 4.6% of samples.

Conclusions

Our study further emphasizes differences between various Asian populations and the importance of repeating this genetic study in different ethnic groups.

Influence of Probiotic Consortium on TH1 and TH2 Immune Response

Introduction

The main role of probiotics is to maintain homeostasis in the intestines and improve bowel protective function. The aim of the present study is to investigate immuno-modulatory effects of a probiotic consortium.

Methods

Observations were carried out in vitro. The presence of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, IFN-γ, IgA, IgM, and IgE was studied using a solid-phase enzyme immunosorbent assay on the VECTOR-BEST sets (Russia).

Results

Immunomodulatory properties of the probiotic consortium were studied, which consisted of the following strains: Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactococcus lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, and Bifidobacterium bifidum. Elevated concentrations of INFγ in control samples decreased 3.9 times (p < 0.05) after a saturation of blood with the probiotic consortium. Significant reduction of cytokine levels after the probiotic effects of the consortium was observed in IL-10 by 2.1 times (p < 0.05) and IgA by 1.87 times (p < 0.0005). There was a significant increase in the levels of IL-4, IgE, IL-6, and IL-8 by 1.3 (p < 0.005), 1.1 (p < 0.5), 18.0 (p < 0.005), and 6 (p < 0.05) times, respectively, in comparison with the control samples. IL-4 and INFγ have different effects on the synthesis of IgE. Soluble low affinity receptors FcɛRII (CD23) in association with IL-4 facilitate a differentiation of the B-lymphocytes in IgE-synthesizing cells, while γ-INF inhibits this process. It is known that the intracellular expression of γ-INF and IL-4 is the most reliable marker for Th1 and Th2 immune responses, respectively. The conducted studies determined that the ratio of INF-γ/IL-4 was 0.9 (control 4.8, P < 0.005) after the saturation of the blood cells with probiotic consortium. NF-γ/IL4 ratio decreased by 5.3 times compared with a control value, which indicates a reduction in the functional activity of Th1 type lymphocytes in comparison with the function of Th2 cells.

Conclusion

The application of the probiotic consortium results in the maintenance of homeostasis by the stimulation of immune function through the activation of humoral immunity. Moreover, the probiotic application changes the orientation of the immunological memory causing the cancellation of the recruitment of Th1 cells in the response.

Effect of Probiotic Consortium on the Local Inflammatory Process in Chronic Periodontitis

Introduction

Inflammatory periodontal disease is one of the major concerns of researchers and clinicians, because it can lead to tooth loss and an increased risk of systemic pathologies, even at the age of 35. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of gelatin-based probiotic consortium on the local and general factors of inflammation in rats with chronic periodontitis.

Methods

The study object was a complex of probiotic bacteria based in an odourless 6% gelatin plate with neutral flavour. A cellular biomass of the consortium consists of following lactobacilli: Lactobacillus casei subsp. pseudoplantarum, Lactobacillus caseisubsp.casei, L.fermentum, and L. helveticus. The viable cell number was 2.5 × 109 CFU/ml. The model of chronic periodontitis was reproduced in the white random-bred rats that weighed 160–220g, by keeping them on a low-protein diet. After three months, symptoms associated with medium and severe chronic periodontitis were observed in the rats. Application was carried out on the oral mucosa of rats 1 time per day for 14 days. The stickers lacking consortium of microorganisms were used as the placebo. The “Solcoseril” gel was chosen as a comparator. The hematologic, biochemical, and morphological characteristics were investigated.

Results

A complete clearance of periodontal pockets was observed during an objective examination of the experimental group rats on the 14^th day of the experiment. Moreover, a gingival mucous turned pink, and there were no cyanosis tissues. The local changes were accompanied by improvement in hematological parameters, such as a reduction of blood eosinophilia and neutrophilia, and a recovery of the white blood cells number to the normal degree within the group that received the probiotic complex. A decrease of the acute plethora of microvasculature was observed morphologically as a result of the treatment. There were signs of basal layer activation of the stratified squamous epithelium with a merger of the acanthosis outgrowths and a formation of the fibrotic nodules. Biochemical investigations did not show significant changes in the indicators.

Conclusions

In the settings of the chronic periodontitis model, the use of gelatin-based probiotic consortium consisting of Lactobacillus casei subsp. pseudoplantarum, Lactobacillus caseisubsp.casei, L.fermentum, L. helveticus. at 2.5 × 109 CFU/ml viable cell numbers lead to the reduction of the local inflammatory manifestations of the periodontitis in 14 days of treatment.

Health benefits of new symbiotic "NAR"

Introduction

The immune-modulatory effects of synbiotics and their ability to reduce free radical levels may be useful for functional food that is able to be active throughout whole period of colonization of the gastrointestinal tract.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the immune-modulatory and antioxidant effects of the synbiotic product “NАR,” a probiotic beverage.

Methods

The presence of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, αTNF, γIFN, Ig A, Ig M, and Ig E was studied in vitro using a solid immunosorbent analysis. The total antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase were determined by a spectrophotometry using the Sigma-Aldrich sets.

Results

Studies of the immune-modulatory properties of the synbiotic product NAR showed 1.7 fold increase of γINF levels (p<0.01) in blood after consumption of the synbiotic product “NAR” in comparison to control values, whereas the concentrations of IL-4 and Ig E decreased 2.0 times (treatment: 9.3; control: 18.7; p<0.01) and 1.3 times (p<0.1), respectively. The consumption of the synbiotic product “NAR” caused an increase in the proportion of γINF/IL 4 (treatment: 15.4; control: 4.4; p<0.01), which indicates a reduction in functional activity of Th2-type lymphocytes in comparison with the function of Th1 cells.

Our study showed a high level of the total antioxidant activity of the synbiotic product (67.4 mmol/ml). The antioxidant activity of the intact cells of consortium (15.3 mM/ml), which was the basis for the preparation of the symbiotic product, is several times lower than the activity observed in the symbiotic samples.

Expression of SOD is one of the mechanisms of antioxidant stress radicals inactivation by bacteria. The analysis identified a superoxide dismutase activity of synbiotic product (1.42 U/mg protein). A glutathione reductase activity of the synbiotic product was elevated (0.06 U/ml).

Conclusion

The majority of the inflammatory mediators found in the blood after the consumption of symbiotic product NAR were inflammatory mediators that activate a cellular component of the resistance. Moreover, the symbiotic product has a high antioxidant activity.

Antioxidant activity of the probiotic consortium in vitro

Introduction

Available evidence suggests that probiotics have different biological functions that depend on several mechanisms, such as antioxidant and DNA-protective activities. The probiotic consortium includes bacterial cultures such as Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactococcus lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum, and other bacterial cultures isolated from traditional Kazakh dairy products (ayran, kumys, shubat, and healthy clinical material). The aim of this study was to investigate the total antioxidant activity of the consortium of probiotic bacteria and to determine the activity of superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, and DNA-protective action.

Material and methods

In vitro comet assay was used to determine the antigenotoxicity of the probiotic consortium. Total antioxidant activity was determined using a method of analysis with Trolox as the equivalent. The analysis method of superoxide dismutase activity assesses the inhibition rate of the nitroblue tetrazolium reduction to formazan by superoxide dismutase. Determination of glutathione reductase activity is based on the measurement of the NADPH oxidation speed.

Results

A significantly high level of the total antioxidant activity of the probiotic consortium intact cells (15.3 mM/ml) was observed whereas the activity index of lysate was 11.1 mM/ml.

The superoxide dismutase activity of probiotic consortium lysate was evaluated, with values that peaked at 0.24 U/mg protein. The superoxide dismutase activity of the consortium was lower in comparison to L.fernentum E-3 and L.fernentum E-18 cultures with values of 0.85 U/mg and 0.76 U/mg protein, respectively. SOD activity of probiotic consortium whole cells was not observed, which is typical for lactic acid bacteria.

Glutathione reductase plays an important role in the optimal protection from oxidative stress. Glutathione reductase activity of the studied probiotic consortium was low; moreover, the activity of the lysate was two times higher than the activity of the cells reaching 0.01 units/ml. Investigations by Dr. Li have shown that the intracellular glutathione may give a significant protection of Lactococcus from the damaging action of H₂O₂, even at very low concentrations.

The data from our study suggests that the co-incubation of the epithelial cells with probiotic bacteria reduces the percentage of damaged cells (damage index–0.60).

Conclusion

The studied probiotic consortium has antigenotoxic and antioxidant activities. Preparations and products of this probiotic consortium may serve as a protective component in the intestinal microbial ecosystem.

Randomized Clinical Trial: Efficacy of a New Synbiotic in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome

Introduction

Metabolic syndrome is a lifestyle disease and is a frequent problem among the adult population. Human gut microbiota plays a key role in the development of metabolic syndrome. Recently, the gut microbiota has emerged as an important contributor to the development of obesity and metabolic disorders through its interactions with environmental (e.g. diet) and genetic factors. The aim of this study was to research the effects of synbiotic on the gut microbiota and host metabolism.

Methods

We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Our sample included 180 adults (ages 30–89) with symptoms of metabolic syndrome, who were allocated to either placebo or synbiotic group. The main inclusion criteria were: blood pressure of around 130/90 mmHg; raised fasting plasma glucose (FPG) >100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L), previous diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia triglycerides (TG) of 1.70 mmol/L, a high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) of 0.90 mmol/L in males and 1.0 mmol/L in females, and central obesity with a waist/hip ratio > 0.90 in males or > 0.85 in females or a body mass index > 30 kg/m².

Results

We enrolled 90 adults in the placebo group and 90 in the synbiotic group. The two groups had similar demographic and clinical characteristics. Consent was signed by all patients. All patients underwent clinical and laboratory evaluation, including complete blood tests, glucose test, glycosylated hemoglobin, total cholesterol and triglycerides, cholesterol, LDL, HDL plasma, immunogram, and coprogram. All patients were interviewed with a questionnaire that included 200 questions related to diet, lifestyle, and health. Synbiotic were used by patients in a dose of 200 grams twice a day. The duration of applying of the synbiotic was 90 days.

To study the composition of the intestinal microbiota, stool samples were collected before and after applying the synbiotic. The microbial composition will be determined by analyzing the locus of 16S rDNA.

Conclusion

This ongoing study is currently undergoing microbial composition analysis in order to establish the efficacy of the new synbiotic in adults with metabolic syndrome.

Complete Genome Sequence of the Probiotic Lactic Acid Bacterium Lactobacillus Rhamnosus

Introduction

Lactobacilli are a bacteria commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract. Some species of this genus have probiotic properties. The most common of these is Lactobacillus rhamnosus, a microoganism, generally regarded as safe (GRAS). It is also a homofermentative L-(+)-lactic acid producer. The genus Lactobacillus is characterized by an extraordinary degree of the phenotypic and genotypic diversity. However, the studies of the genus were conducted mostly with the unequally distributed, non-random choice of species for sequencing; thus, there is only one representative genome from the Lactobacillus rhamnosus clade available to date. The aim of this study was to characterize the genome sequencing of selected strains of Lactobacilli.

Methods

109 samples were isolated from national domestic dairy products in the laboratory of Center for life sciences. After screaning isolates for probiotic properties, a highly active Lactobacillus spp strain was chosen.Genomic DNA was extracted according to the manufacturing protocol (Wizard® Genomic DNA Purification Kit). The Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain was identified as the highly active Lactobacillus strain accoridng to its morphological, cultural, physiological, and biochemical properties, and a genotypic analysis.

Results

The genome of Lactobacillus rhamnosus was sequenced using the Roche 454 GS FLX (454 GS FLX) platforms. The initial draft assembly was prepared from 14 large contigs (20 all contigs) by the Newbler gsAssembler 2.3 (454 Life Sciences, Branford, CT).

Conclusion

A full genome-sequencing of selected strains of lactic acid bacteria was made during the study.

Component analysis of esophageal cancer incidence in Kazakhstan

Esophageal cancer (EC) incidence rates in Kazakhstan were assessed by component analysis based on primary registered cases in 2001-2010. It was found that despite an apparent general decrease in the number of EC patients in Kazakhstan, a potential increase should be evaluated, due to changes in aging as well as the increase in population. Some problems of EC patients' registration were broached with an emphasis on the importance of the expected absolute number and reasons for undercounting in the country. Based on these, ways of improving the recording and registration of such patients in the country were suggested.