Balance Of Gut Microbiota Research Articles

The Gut Microbiota and Major Depressive Disorder: Current Understanding and Novel Therapeutic Strategies.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common neuropsychiatric challenge that primarily targets young females. MDD as a global disorder has a multifactorial etiology related to the environment and genetic background. A balanced gut microbiota is one of the most important environmental factors involved in human physiological health. The interaction of gut microbiota components and metabolic products with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system and immune mediators can reverse depression phenotypes in vulnerable individuals. Therefore, abnormalities in the quantitative and qualitative structure of the gut microbiota may lead to the progression of MDD. In this review, we have presented an overview of the bidirectional relationship between gut microbiota and MDD, and the effect of pre-treatments and microbiomebased approaches, such as probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and a new generation of microbial alternatives, on the improvement of unstable clinical conditions caused by MDD.

Degradation of low-molecular-weight fucoidans by human intestinal microbiota and their regulation effect on intestinal microbiota and metabolites during in vitro fermentation

Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide from brown algae, has been shown to improve gut microbiota balance and function. However, the relationship between molecular weight of fucoidan and colonic fermentation characteristics is still unclear. Here, the interaction between different-molecular-weight fucoidans and intestinal microbiota was analyzed via an in vitro fecal fermentation model. Results showed that fucoidan and its 2 low-molecular-weight derivatives (Dfuc1 and Dfuc2) could be utilized by intestinal microbiota after 48 h of fermentation, and among them, Dfuc2 exhibited the highest utilization efficiency of 30.1%, followed by Dfuc1 (24.5%) and fucoidan (14.4%). Notably, the components glucose, mannose and galactose, but not fucose, in different-molecular-weight fucoidans could be utilized. Moreover, intestinal microbiota could degrade Dfuc1 and Dfuc2 to produce oligosaccharide fragments, such as fucose-hexose disaccharide. In addition, fucoidan, Dfuc1 and Dfuc2 displayed different prebiotic effects on the intestinal microbiota community. Native fucoidan preferred to promote Bacteroides and Lactococcus, and low-molecular-weight fucoidans tended to promote Parabacteroides and Lactobacillus. Furthermore, metabolites analysis showed that fucoidan, Dfuc1 and Dfuc2 had similar promoting effects on acetic acid and propionic acid, and had no effect on butyric acid. But they could regulate carbohydrate metabolic pathways and amino acid pathways to varying degrees and with decreasing molecular weight, more differential metabolites were found. Thus, Dfuc2 with a lower molecular weight has more potential to become a potential prebiotics to improve intestinal health.

Pristimerin Alleviates DSS-Induced Colitis in Mice by Modulating Intestinal Barrier Function, Gut Microbiota Balance and Host Metabolism.

Pristimerin is a pentacyclic triterpenoid mainly derived from Celastraceae plants such as Maytenus ilicifolia, which has been traditionally used for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Pharmacological studies have shown that pristimerin exhibited anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer and antibacterial activities. However, the potential mechanism of pristimerin for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) remains elusive. In the present study, pristimerin could effectively inhibit the NO generation induced by LPS in RAW 264.7 cells and upregulate the decreased expression of tight junction proteins such as occludin and claudin-1. In vivo, oral administration of pristimerin (0.5 mg/kg and 1 mg/kg) could significantly relieve UC symptoms such as body weight loss, disease activity index, shortened colon length and colonic pathological damage. Meanwhile, pristimerin decreased the TNF-α, MPO and MDA levels and increased the levels of IL-10, IL-22, SOD activity, occludin and claudin-1 in colon tissues. Gut microbiota analysis of cecum contents revealed that pristimerin treatment effectively alleviated gut microbiota dysbiosis. Additionally, serum metabolomics showed that 33 potential biomarkers involving lipid and tryptophan metabolism were identified, which may account for the therapeutic effects of pristimerin on UC mice. In conclusion, our findings indicate that pristimerin attenuates UC symptoms in DSS-induced mice through modulating intestinal barrier integrity, gut microbiota composition, lipid and tryptophan metabolism.

A metagenomic catalogue of the ruminant gut archaeome

While the ruminant gut archaeome regulates the gut microbiota and hydrogen balance, it is also a major producer of the greenhouse gas methane. However, ruminant gut archaeome diversity within the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of ruminant animals worldwide remains largely underexplored. Here, we construct a catalogue of 998 unique archaeal genomes recovered from the GITs of ruminants, utilizing 2270 metagenomic samples across 10 different ruminant species. Most of the archaeal genomes (669/998 = 67.03%) belong to Methanobacteriaceae and Methanomethylophilaceae (198/998 = 19.84%). We recover 47/279 previously undescribed archaeal genomes at the strain level with completeness of >80% and contamination of <5%. We also investigate the archaeal gut biogeography across various ruminants and demonstrate that archaeal compositional similarities vary significantly by breed and gut location. The catalogue contains 42,691 protein clusters, and the clustering and methanogenic pathway analysis reveal strain- and host-specific dependencies among ruminant animals. We also find that archaea potentially carry antibiotic and metal resistance genes, mobile genetic elements, virulence factors, quorum sensors, and complex archaeal viromes. Overall, this catalogue is a substantial repository for ruminant archaeal recourses, providing potential for advancing our understanding of archaeal ecology and discovering strategies to regulate methane production in ruminants.

Ellagic Acid Protects against Alcohol-Related Liver Disease by Modulating the Hepatic Circadian Rhythm Signaling through the Gut Microbiota-NPAS2 Axis.

Alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) encompasses a spectrum of hepatic disorders resulting from alcohol abuse, which constitutes the predominant etiology of morbidity and mortality associated with hepatic pathologies globally. Excessive alcohol consumption disrupts the integrity of the intestinal barrier and perturbs the balance of gut microbiota, thereby facilitating the progression of ALD. Ellagic acid (EA) has been extensively reported to be an effective intervention for alleviating liver symptoms. However, the target molecules of EA in improving ALD and its underlying mechanism remain elusive. First, our study indicates that EA ameliorated ALD through the hepatic circadian rhythm signaling by up-regulating neuronal PAS domain protein 2 (NPAS2). Furthermore, analysis of the intestinal microbiome showed that EA significantly enhanced the abundance of beneficial bacteria, which was positively correlated with NPAS2 expression and negatively correlated with liver injury. Finally, antibiotic treatment and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) experiments established a causal relationship between the reshaped microbiota and NPAS2 in the amelioration of ALD. In summary, our study demonstrates novel evidence that EA attenuated ALD by modulating the hepatic circadian rhythm signaling pathway via the gut microbiota-NPAS2 axis, providing valuable insights for EA and microbiome-targeted interventions against ALD.

MELAS syndrome and risk of infection

Abstract This perspective explores the relationship between mitochondrial encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) syndrome and an increased risk of infections. Mitochondrial dysfunction impairs immune cell function, impacting the body’s defense against pathogens. Additional effects on the immune system may manifest through altered B-cell function and disruptions in the gut microbiota balance. The complex connection between infections, MELAS symptoms, and treatment complicates patient management. We propose greater focus on genetic abnormalities and their immunologic impacts, indicating a possible path for targeted pharmaceutical therapies to improve overall illness management.

MIIST305 mitigates gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome injury and ameliorates radiation-induced gut microbiome dysbiosis.

High-dose radiation exposure results in gastrointestinal (GI) acute radiation syndrome identified by the destruction of mucosal layer, intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction, and aberrant inflammatory responses. In addition, radiation causes gut microbiome dysbiosis characterized by diminished microbial diversity, reduction in the abundance of beneficial commensal bacteria, and the spread of bacterial pathogens that trigger the recruitment of immune cells and the production of pro-inflammatory factors that lead to further GI tissue damage. Currently, there are no FDA-approved countermeasures that can treat radiation-induced GI injury. To meet this critical need, Synedgen Inc., has developed a glycopolymer radiomitigator (MIIST305) that is specifically targeted to the GI tract which acts by intercalating into the mucus layer and the glycocalyx of intestinal epithelial cells that could potentially ameliorate the deleterious effects of radiation. Male C57BL/6J adult mice were exposed to 13 Gy total body X-irradiation with 5% bone marrow shielding and MIIST305 was administered on days 1, 3, and 5 post-irradiation. Approximately 85% of the animals survived the irradiation exposure and were apparently healthy until the end of the 30-day study period. In contrast, no control, vehicle-treated animals survived past day 10 at this radiation dose. We show that MIIST305 improved intestinal epithelial barrier function and suppressed systemic inflammatory response mediated by radiation-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines. Taxonomic profiling and community structure of the fecal and colonic mucosa microbiota demonstrated that MIIST305 treatment increased microbial diversity and restored abundance of beneficial commensal bacteria, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera, while suppressing potentially pathogenic bacteria compared with vehicle-treated animals. In summary, MIIST305 is a novel GI-targeted therapeutic that greatly enhances survival in mice exposed to lethal radiation and protects the GI tract from injury by restoring a balanced gut microbiota and effectively reducing proinflammatory responses. Further development of this drug as an FDA-approved medical countermeasure will be of critical importance in the event of a radiation public health emergency.

Challenges in integrating traditional Chinese medicine and gut microbiota research for insomnia treatment

The gut microbiome is an extensive variety of bacteria with a range of metabolic capabilities that can be pathogenic, beneficial, or opportunistic. Changes in the gut microbiota's composition can affect the link between gut integrity and host health as well as cause disruptions to numerous neurological systems. The second most prevalent mental health problem, insomnia has a negative social and economic impact. Currently, it is becoming increasingly obvious how crucial it is to preserve the delicate balance of gut microbiota to treat illness-related symptoms like insomnia. Although traditional Chinese medicine has proposed an effective strategy against insomnia through gut microbiota alteration in animal models, studies in human models are limited. This decreases the predictive value of the studies in terms of human outcomes. This editorial places an emphasis on cultural sensitivity rather than scientific reasoning that promotes the use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). We aim to emphasize the concern that promoting TCM could divert resources from conventional medical research, leading to suboptimal care.

Role of Akkermansia muciniphila in insulin resistance.

Insulin resistance (IR) is a pathogenic factor in numerous metabolic diseases. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining the function of the intestinal barrier and overall human health, thereby influencing IR. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota can contribute to the development of IR. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a balanced and diverse gut microbiota for optimal health. Akkermansia muciniphila, a widely present microorganism in the human intestine, has been shown to regulate gastrointestinal mucosal barrier integrity, reduce endotoxin penetration, decrease systemic inflammation levels, and improve insulin sensitivity. Reduced abundance of A.muciniphila is associated with an increased risk of IR and other metabolic diseases, highlighting its correlation with IR. Understanding the role and regulatory mechanism of A.muciniphila is crucial for comprehending IR pathogenesis and developing novel strategies for preventing and treating related metabolic disorders. Individual variations may exist in both the gut microbiota composition and its impact on IR among different individuals. Further investigation into individual differences between A.muciniphila and IR will facilitate advancements in personalized medicine by promoting tailored interventions based on the gut microbiota composition, which is a potential future direction that would optimize insulin sensitivity while preventing metabolic disease occurrence. In this review, we describe the physiological characteristics of A.muciniphila, emphasize its roles in underlying mechanisms contributing to IR pathology, and summarize how alterations in its abundance affect IR development, thereby providing valuable insights for further research on A.muciniphila, as well as new drug development targeting diabetes.

Harnessing Prebiotics to Improve Type 2 Diabetes Outcomes.

The gut microbiota, a complex ecosystem of microorganisms in the human gastrointestinal tract (GI), plays a crucial role in maintaining metabolic health and influencing disease susceptibility. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in gut microbiota, has been linked to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through mechanisms such as reduced glucose tolerance and increased insulin resistance. A balanced gut microbiota, or eubiosis, is associated with improved glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications. Various strategies, including the use of prebiotics like inulin, fructooligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides, resistant starch, pectic oligosaccharides, polyphenols, β-glucan, and Dendrobium officinale have been shown to improve gut microbial composition and support glycemic control in T2DM patients. These prebiotics can directly impact blood sugar levels while promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, thus enhancing glycemic control. Studies have shown that T2DM patients often exhibit a decrease in beneficial butyrate-producing bacteria, like Roseburia and Faecalibacterium, and an increase in harmful bacteria, such as Escherichia and Prevotella. This review aims to explore the effects of different prebiotics on T2DM, their impact on gut microbiota composition, and the potential for personalized dietary interventions to optimize diabetes management and improve overall health outcomes.

Oral supplementation with lactic acid bacteria improve the intestinal epithelial barrier and gut microbiota of broiler chicks to alleviate Salmonella Enteritidis infection

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) play a key role in regulating the balance of gut microbiota and serve as a suitable alternative to antibiotics. This study aims to evaluate the characteristics of 2 LAB isolates Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lp71 (L. plantarum Lp71) and Enterococcus faecium Ef72 (E. faecium Ef72), and their roles in alleviating Salmonella Enteritidis infection. Sixty 1-day-old chicks were randomly divided into 4 groups which treated with or without L. plantarum Lp71 and E. faecium Ef72 mixture for 21 d, and then intestinal samples were collected for gut microbiota analysis, pathological and immunohistochemical analysis at 24 h post infection with or without Salmonella Enteritidis on the 22nd d. The results showed that L. plantarum Lp71 and E. faecium Ef72 had the ability to anti-acid and anti-bile salt. Salmonella Enteritidis infection damaged the intestinal epithelial barrier and reduced the expression level of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, Claudin-1, Occludin). Oral supplementation with L. plantarum Lp71 and E. faecium Ef72 mixture could alleviated the damages to intestinal epithelial barrier by Salmonella Enteritidis infection. Salmonella Enteritidis could cause abnormal Akkermansia muciniphila proliferation and decrease the diversity of cecal microbiota in chicks. These conditions could have further led to reduce gut microbiota health index (GMHI), and improve microbial dysbiosis index (MDI). Moreover, oral supplementation with L. plantarum Lp71 and E. faecium Ef72 mixture could effectively prevent the aforementioned infection outcomes and increase the abundance proportions of the several key functions in metabolic pathways metabolic pathways such as transcription and signal transduction mechanisms. In summary, L. plantarum Lp71 and E. faecium Ef72 could be the probiotics candidates that used to prevent the damage from enteric pathogens such as Salmonella Enteritidis in broiler chicks.

Evaluating the Therapeutic Efficacy of Lactobacillus Strains in the Management of Ulcerative Colitis: An Overview of Recent Advances.

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) known as a sub-category of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) is a longterm condition that causes inflammation, irritation, and ulcers in the colon and rectum. Though the precise pathogenesis of UC is not fully understood yet, impaired immune responses and imbalanced intestinal microbiome composition have been regarded as two main key players in colitis pathobiology. As conventional treatments are challenged with limitations and side effects, finding a new therapeutic approach has gained increasing attention. Probiotic bacteria with multifunctional health-promoting properties have been considered novel therapeutic options. There is strong evidence indicating that probiotics exert their therapeutic effects mostly by regulating immune system responses and restoring gut microbiome homeostasis. These results validate the rationale behind the clinical application of probiotics in UC management whether prescribed alone or in combination with conventional therapy. This article explores the pathogenesis of UC, concentrating on the influence of immune dysregulation and intestinal microbiome imbalances. Also, it reviews recent in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies that have demonstrated the efficacy of Lactobacillus species in decreasing UC symptoms by modifying immune responses, restoring gut microbiota balance, and promoting intestinal barrier function.

Gut-Brain Axis and Neuroinflammation: The Role of Gut Permeability and the Kynurenine Pathway in Neurological Disorders.

The increasing prevalence of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and multiple sclerosis presents a significant global health challenge. Despite extensive research, the precise mechanisms underlying these conditions remain elusive, with current treatments primarily addressing symptoms rather than root causes. Emerging evidence suggests that gut permeability and the kynurenine pathway are involved in the pathogenesis of these neurological conditions, offering promising targets for novel therapeutic and preventive strategies. Gut permeability refers to the intestinal lining's ability to selectively allow essential nutrients into the bloodstream while blocking harmful substances. Various factors, including poor diet, stress, infections, and genetic predispositions, can compromise gut integrity, leading to increased permeability. This condition facilitates the translocation of toxins and bacteria into systemic circulation, triggering widespread inflammation that impacts neurological health via the gut-brain axis. The gut-brain axis (GBA) is a complex communication network between the gut and the central nervous system. Dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut microbiota, can increase gut permeability and systemic inflammation, exacerbating neuroinflammation-a key factor in neurological disorders. The kynurenine pathway, the primary route for tryptophan metabolism, is significantly implicated in this process. Dysregulation of the kynurenine pathway in the context of inflammation leads to the production of neurotoxic metabolites, such as quinolinic acid, which contribute to neuronal damage and the progression of neurological disorders. This narrative review highlights the potential and progress in understanding these mechanisms. Interventions targeting the kynurenine pathway and maintaining a balanced gut microbiota through diet, probiotics, and lifestyle modifications show promise in reducing neuroinflammation and supporting brain health. In addition, pharmacological approaches aimed at modulating the kynurenine pathway directly, such as inhibitors of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, offer potential avenues for new treatments. Understanding and targeting these interconnected pathways are crucial for developing effective strategies to prevent and manage neurological disorders.

Peptidoglycan-Chi3l1 interaction shapes gut microbiota in intestinal mucus layer

The balanced gut microbiota in intestinal mucus layer plays an instrumental role in the health of the host. However, the mechanisms by which the host regulates microbial communities in the mucus layer remain largely unknown. Here, we discovered that the host regulates bacterial colonization in the gut mucus layer by producing a protein called Chitinase 3-like protein 1 (Chi3l1). Intestinal epithelial cells are stimulated by the gut microbiota to express Chi3l1. Once expressed, Chi3l1 is secreted into the mucus layer where it interacts with the gut microbiota, specifically through a component of bacterial cell walls called peptidoglycan. This interaction between Chi3l1 and bacteria is beneficial for the colonization of bacteria in the mucus, particularly for Gram-positive bacteria like Lactobacillus. Moreover, a deficiency of Chi3l1 leads to an imbalance in the gut microbiota, which exacerbates colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate. By performing fecal microbiota transplantation from Villin-cre mice or replenishing Lactobacillus in IEC∆Chil1 mice, we were able to restore their colitis to the same level as that of Villin-cre mice. In summary, this study shows a ‘scaffold model’ for microbiota homeostasis by interaction between intestinal Chi3l1 and bacteria cell wall interaction, and it also highlights that an unbalanced gut microbiota in the intestinal mucus contributes to the development of colitis.

Peptidoglycan-Chi3l1 interaction shapes gut microbiota in intestinal mucus layer.

The balanced gut microbiota in intestinal mucus layer plays an instrumental role in the health of the host. However, the mechanisms by which the host regulates microbial communities in the mucus layer remain largely unknown. Here, we discovered that the host regulates bacterial colonization in the gut mucus layer by producing a protein called Chitinase 3-like protein 1 (Chi3l1). Intestinal epithelial cells are stimulated by the gut microbiota to express Chi3l1. Once expressed, Chi3l1 is secreted into the mucus layer where it interacts with the gut microbiota, specifically through a component of bacterial cell walls called peptidoglycan. This interaction between Chi3l1 and bacteria is beneficial for the colonization of bacteria in the mucus, particularly for Gram-positive bacteria like Lactobacillus. Moreover, a deficiency of Chi3l1 leads to an imbalance in the gut microbiota, which exacerbates colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate. By performing fecal microbiota transplantation from Villin-cre mice or replenishing Lactobacillus in IEC∆Chil1 mice, we were able to restore their colitis to the same level as that of Villin-cre mice. In summary, this study shows a 'scaffold model' for microbiota homeostasis by interaction between intestinal Chi3l1 and bacteria cell wall interaction, and it also highlights that an unbalanced gut microbiota in the intestinal mucus contributes to the development of colitis.

The Nexus between Polyphenols and Gut Microbiota and Their Interplay in Human Health: A Brief Review

Polyphenols are a broad class of naturally occurring substances in plants and have drawn extensive attention as they may possess promising health-promoting benefits. Recently, gut microbiota and polyphenol interactions have been directly linked to the well-being of humans. The classification, sources, and interactions of polyphenols with the gut microbiota are presented in this review, highlighting their key health benefits in humans. Polyphenols undergo complex transformations within the gastrointestinal tract and interact with the gut microbiota, a varied collection of bacteria living in the digestive system. The interactions substantially influence the composition, functioning, metabolic activity, and gut microbiota diversity. Research indicates that polyphenols may possess prebiotic-like properties, favouring Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria growth, among other beneficial bacteria. The fermentation of polyphenols is aided by these bacteria, which produce bioactive metabolites that may improve human health and well-being in various ways. Moreover, the alteration of gut microbiology caused by polyphenols has been linked to improvements in several health outcomes, including enhanced metabolic health, fortified immunological function, and a decreased susceptibility to chronic conditions like heart disease and certain forms of cancer. In summary, the intriguing relationship between polyphenols and gut microbiota has significant health implications for humans. Understanding these relationships can open the door to tailored dietary treatments and the development of functional foods to support a balanced gut microbiota and general well-being.

Sturgeon swim bladder hydrolysates alleviate cadmium-induced reproductive toxicity in male mice via regulating homeostasis of gut microbiota and testicular redox

Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal contributing to lower male fertility, while swim bladder extracts may have a protective effect against reproductive toxicity caused by cadmium due to its various biological activities such as antioxidant and anti-aging. Herein so as to investigate the ameliorative effects of ethanol-soluble sturgeon swim bladder hydrolysate (SSBH-ES) on reproductive toxicity caused by cadmium in male mice and to explore its mechanisms involved. The results revealed that SSBH-ES could effectively alleviate Cd-induced weight loss and testicular mass loss in mice, restore testicular tissue structure, increase antioxidant levels and energy enzyme activities, and maintain serum hormone levels. Moreover, SSBH-ES could preserve the balance of gut microbiota by elevating the levels of Bacteroides, Paramuribaculum and Mucispirillum, while reducing the levels of Crytobacteroides Mailhella and Prevotella with these changes correlating with variations in reproductive indicators. These results demonstrated the beneficial effects of SSBH-ES supplementation on gut microbiota and male reproductive health, providing new insight for the therapeutic potential against Cd-induced testicular toxicity.

Life on both environment in semi-aquatic frogs: Impact of aquatic microplastic (MP) from MP enrichment to growth, immune function and physiological stress

The pervasive distribution of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic ecosystems presents a significant threat to wildlife, with amphibians being particularly vulnerable due to their complex life cycles and ecological roles. This study investigates physiological and ecological impacts of aquatic MP exposure on juvenile black-spotted pond frogs (Pelophylax nigromaculatus), focusing on juvenile frog stage, history of life after metamorphosis. MP examinations in the intestine and body revealed accumulation primarily in the gastrointestinal tracts without evidence of systemic distribution. Experimental exposure to different concentrations of MPs demonstrated adverse effects on growth, physiological stress, and immune function. Notably, higher MP concentrations led to significant reductions in growth and innate immunity, indicative of compromised health. High concentrations of MPs were associated with elevated levels of corticosterone and antioxidant enzymes, indicating physiological stress. However, there was no evidence of extreme hormonal surges or imbalances in antioxidant enzyme activity, suggesting that amphibians were able to effectively cope with the levels of MPs used in the study. Changes in gastrointestinal morphology and fecal microbiota composition were observed, reflecting response of metabolic adaptation to MP exposure. At low concentrations of MPs, adaptive changes in digestive tract morphology and the maintenance of gut microbiota balance were observed, indicating that the frogs were able to manage the exposure below a certain threshold. In contrast, high concentrations of MPs had clear negative effects on amphibians, which could impact biodiversity and ecosystem stability. These findings also suggest that MPs may trigger adaptive responses at lower concentrations, while still posing significant environmental risks at higher levels.

Diverse applications of probiotics in health and disease

Probiotics play diverse roles in promoting health and well-being, encompassing gut microbiota balance, digestive health, immune function, gut barrier integrity, metabolic health, and mental well-being. With the beneficial effects of probiotics, individuals may improve their gastrointestinal health, boost immune function, and reduce the risk of various diseases. These probiotics compete with pathogens and support gut and immune homeostasis to help in the prevention and cure of gastrointestinal disease, immune disorders, diabetes, obesity, cancer and allergic disorders, etc. Probiotic-rich foods and supplements into the diet offer a proactive approach to maintaining overall health and optimizing the functioning of the gut. Probiotics help to maintain immune homeostasis and decrease the risk of inflammatory disorders and allergic conditions. Several probiotic strains are available on the market and are being consumed in the form of foods, supplements, or drugs for health benefits. Lactobacilli, Bifidobacteria, and Bacillus species are common probiotic strains.

The Gut Health Revolution: Herbs and Dietary Phytochemicals in Balancing Gut Microbiota for Optimal Human Health.

The gut microbiota is a varied population of microorganisms that live in the human gastrointestinal system. Emerging research emphasizes the importance of this microbial ecology in general health and its influence on a variety of disorders. The review explores the synergy between herbal treatment and traditional medicine, emphasizing their cultural significance and therapeutic benefits. It delves into the intricate relationship between herbal remedies, traditional healing practices, and their sustained usage over centuries. The review highlights the pivotal role of the gut microbiota in herbal medicine, elucidating how treatments influence the gastrointestinal microorganisms, impacting overall health. Dietary phytochemicals are underscored for their significance in herbal medicine and nutritional well-being, along with the interdependence of plant extracts and botanicals. The investigation explores the molecular connections between phytoconstituents and gut microbiota, aiming to deepen the understanding of herbal medicine's tailored approach to specific health challenges. The summary concludes by emphasizing herbal treatments' unique ability to regulate gut flora, contributing to overall gastrointestinal wellbeing. In closing, the review provides a concise overview, serving as a valuable resource for integrative medicine research, with recommendations for future exploration of herbal medicine's potential in healthcare.