Bifidobacterium Bifidum Research Articles

Vibriocidal efficacy of Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus acidophilus cell-free supernatants encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles against multi-drug resistant Vibrio cholerae O1 El Tor

BackgroundCholera is a diarrheal disease recognized for being caused by toxin-producing Vibrio (V.) cholerae. This study aims to assess the vibriocidal and immunomodulatory properties of derived cell-free supernatants (CFSs) of Bifidobacterium (B.) bifidum and Lactobacillus (L.) acidophilus encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (CFSb-CsNPs and CFSa-CsNPs) against clinical multi-drug resistance (MDR) isolates of V. cholerae O1 El Tor.MethodsWe synthesized CFSb-CsNPs and CFSa-CsNPs using the ionic gelation technique. The newly nanostructures were characterized for size, surface zeta potential, morphology, encapsulation efficacy (EE), stability in different pH values and temperatures, release profile, and in vitro cytotoxicity. The antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects of the obtained nanocomposites on clinical MDR isolates (N = 5) of V. cholerae E1 Tor O1 were investigated by microbroth dilution assay and crystal violet staining, respectively. We conducted quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) to analyze the relative gene expressions of Bap, Rbmc, CTXAB, and TCP in response to CFSb-CsNPs and CFSa-CsNPs. Additionally, the immunomodulatory effects of formulated structures on the expression of TLR2 and TLR4 genes in human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (Caco-2) were studied.ResultsNano-characterization analyses indicated that CFSb-CsNPs and CFSa-CsNPs exhibit spherical shapes under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging, with mean diameters of 98.16 ± 0.763 nm and 83.90 ± 0.854 nm, respectively. Both types of nanoparticles possess positive surface charges. The EE% of CFSb-CsNPs was 77 ± 4.28%, whereas that of CFSa-CsNPs was 62.5 ± 7.33%. Chitosan (Cs) encapsulation leads to increased stability of CFSs in simulated pH conditions of the gastrointestinal tract in which the release rates for CFSb-CsNPs and CFSa-CsNPs were reached at 58.00 ± 1.24% and 55.01 ± 1.73%, respectively at pH = 7.4. The synergistic vibriocidal effects observed from the co-administration of both CFSb-CsNPs and CFSa-CsNPs, as evidenced by a fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index of 0.57, resulting in a significantly lower MIC of 2.5 ± 0.05 mg/mL (p < 0.0001) compare to individual administration. The combined antibacterial effect of CFSb-CsNPs and CFSa-CsNPs on Bap (0.14 ± 0.05), Rbmc (0.24 ± 0.01), CTXAB (0.30 ± 0.09), and TCP (0.38 ± 0.01) gene expression was significant (p < 0.001). Furthermore, co-administration of CFSb-CsNPs and CFSa-CsNPs also demonstrated the potency of suppressing TLR 2/4 (0.20 ± 0.01 and 0.12 ± 0.02, respectively) gene expression (p = 0.0019) and reduced Caco-2 cells attached bacteria to 526,000 ± 51,46 colony-forming units/mL (11.19%) (p < 0.0001).ConclusionOur study revealed that encapsulating CFSs within CsNPs enhances their vibriocidal activity by improving stability and enabling a controlled release mechanism at the site of interaction between the host and bacteria. Additionally, the simultaneous use of CFSb-CsNPs and CFSa-CsNPs exhibited superior vibriocidal potency against MDR V. cholerae O1 El Tor strains, indicating these combinations as a potential new approach against MDR bacteria.

Comparative genomic analysis revealed that dietary habits affected the adaptation of Bifidobacterium bifidum to the intestinal tract in different geographic populations

Recent research on the genome of Bifidobacterium bifidum has mainly focused on the isolation sources (intestinal tract niche) recently, but reports on the isolation region are limited. This study analyzed the differences in the genome of B. bifidum isolated from different geographical populations by comparative genomic analysis. Results at the genome level indicated that the GC content of American isolates was significantly higher than that of Chinese and Russian isolates. The phylogenetic tree, based on 919 core genes showed that B. bifidum might be related to the geographical characteristics of isolation region. Furthermore, functional annotation analysis demonstrated that copy numbers of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZys) involved in the degradation of polysaccharide from plant and host sources in B. bifidum were high, and 18 CAZys showed significant differences across different geographical populations, indicating that B. bifidum had adapted to the human intestinal environment, especially in the groups with diets rich in fiber. Dietary habits were one of the main reasons for the differences of B. bifidum across different geographical populations. Additionally, B. bifidum exhibited high diversity, evident in glycoside hydrolases, the CRISPR-Cas system, and prophages. This study provides a genetic basis for further research and development of B. bifidum.

Study on synergistic and antimicrobial activity of certain Bifidobacterium bifidum strains and plant extracts against clinical isolates

To evaluate the synergistic and antimicrobial activity of certain Bifidobacterium bifidum strains and methanolic extracts of Withania somnifera (Aswagandha) and Aloe vera plant extracts against clinical isolates from veterinary hospitals by using well diffusion method. The results obtained from the combined testing of Bifidobacterium adolescentis 236 strain and methanolic plant extracts of Withania somnifera showed significantly higher antibacterial/synergistic activity against isolates of E.coli and Staphylococcus aureus with an average zone of inhibition of 19.0 mm and 20.0 mm respectively, whereas against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella typhimurium showed resistance/lower zone of inhibition with an average zone of inhibition 13.0 mm and 14.0 mm, respectively. Further, it was also observed that the Bifidobacterium bifidum strains and Withania somnifera and Aloe vera plants methanolic extracts exhibited excellent antibiotic activity when they were tested alone against the clinical pathogens. However, Bifidobacterium bifidum strains 229 and 232 tested in combination with methanolic extracts of Withania somnifera and Aloe vera plant extracts exhibited significantly low antibacterial activity/zone of inhibition against clinically isolated pathogens. The present study specifies that the Bifidobacterium adolescentis 236 strain and methanolic extract of Withania somnifera extracts exhibited good antibacterial activity when they are used in combination, such combinations can be further tested as an alternative to antibiotics for effective prophylactic measures and also for treatment of contagious diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms.

Evaluating the antibacterial, antibiofilm, and anti-toxigenic effects of postbiotics from lactic acid bacteria on Clostridium difficile.

The most common cause of healthcare-associated diarrhea is Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), which causes severe and recurring symptoms. The increase of antibiotic-resistant C. difficile requires alternate treatments. Postbiotics, metabolites produced by probiotics, fight CDI owing to their antibacterial capabilities. This study aims to evaluate the antibacterial, antibiofilm, and anti-toxigenic potential of postbiotics in combating CDI. GC-MS evaluated postbiotics from Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus plantarum. Disk diffusion and broth microdilution determined C. difficile antibacterial inhibition zones and MICs. Microtiter plates assessed antibiofilm activity. MTT assay evaluated postbiotics anti-viability on HEK293. ELISA testing postbiotic detoxification of toxins A and B. Postbiotics were examined for tcdA and tcdB genes expression using real-time PCR. The most identified B. bifidum and L. plantarum postbiotic compounds were glycolic acid (7.2%) and butyric acid (13.57%). B. bifidum and L. plantarum displayed 13 and 10 mm inhibition zones and 2.5 and 5 mg/ml MICs against C. difficile. B. bifidum reduced biofilm at 1.25 mg/ml by 49% and L. plantarum by 31%. MTT assay showed both postbiotics had little influence on cell viability, which was over 80%. The detoxification power of postbiotics revealed that B. bifidum decreased toxin A and B production more effectively than L. plantarum, and also their related tcdA and tcdB genes expression reduction were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Postbiotics' ability to inhibit bacterial growth, biofilm disruption, and toxin reduction makes them a promising adjunctive for CDI treatment and a good solution to pathogens' antibiotic resistance.

In vitro digestive system simulation and anticancer activity of soymilk fermented by probiotics and synbiotics immobilised on agro-industrial residues

In this study, a variety of probiotic strains, including Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lacticaseibacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Streptococcus thermophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, Limosilactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, and Bifidobacterium bifidum, were utilized for soymilk fermentation both as free cells and as synbiotics on agro-industrial residuals such as okara, whey protein, banana peels, apple pomace, sugarcane bagasse, orange peels, and lemon peels. Among these, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus emerged as the most significant strain for soymilk fermentation, exhibiting a viability of 10.47 log cfu/mL, a pH of 4.41, total acidity of 1.12%, and organic acid contents (lactic and acetic acid) of 11.20 and 7.50 g/L, respectively. As a synbiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus immobilised on okara, showed even more impressive results, with a viability of 12.98 log cfu/mL, a pH of 4.31, total acidity of 1.27%, and organic acid contents of 13.90 and 9.30 g/L, respectively. Over a 12-h fermentation period, cell viability values increased by 10.47-fold in free cells and 11.19-fold in synbiotics. Synbiotic supplementation of fermented soymilk proved more beneficial than free cells in terms of viability, acidity, and organic acid content. Furthermore, when synbiotic fermented soymilk was freeze-dried to simulate the digestive system in vitro, synbiotics and freeze-dried cells demonstrated superior gastrointestinal tract survival compared to free cells. Both the probiotic bacteria and the synbiotics exhibited cytotoxicity against colon and liver cancer cell lines, with half-maximal inhibitory concentrations ranging from 41.96 to 61.52 μL/well.

Effects of Bifidobacterium bifidum tetragonum tablets and Jin Gui Ren Qi Pill on intestinal flora and metabolism in patients with diabetic kidney disease.

To investigate the effects of Bifidobacterium bifidum tetragonum tablets and Jin Gui Ren Qi Pill on intestinal flora and metabolism in patients with diabetic kidney disease. In the study conducted at Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College from March 2021 to December 2022, 30 cases of patients diagnosed with diabetic nephropathy were meticulously selected as study subjects. Employing a double-blind randomized table method, these patients were randomly allocated into three groups: the control group (n = 10), the Bifidobacterium bifidum tetragonum tablets group (n = 10), and the Jin Gui Ren Qi Pill group (n = 10). The control group received standard western medical treatments for diabetic nephropathy, including serum glucose, blood lipids, blood pressure management, and other conventional therapies. In addition to the standard treatments, the Bifidobacterium bifidum tetragonum tablets group received Bifidobacterium bifidum tetragonum tablets, while the Jin Gui Ren Qi Pill group received Jin Gui Ren Qi Pill. Before and after a 4-week treatment period, various baseline parameters were assessed, including fasting blood glucose, 2-h postprandial blood glucose, triglycerides, serum total cholesterol, serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, random urine microalbumin/creatinine ratio (ACR), blood creatinine (SCr), and traditional Chinese medicine evidence scores. Stool specimens were collected from all three groups before and after treatment for 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing, followed by comprehensive analyses including OUT clustering, Alpha diversity, Beta diversity, species composition analysis, LEfSe analysis, and KEGG function prediction. Spearman correlation analysis was employed to explore the relationship between intestinal flora and clinical indicators. Furthermore, fasting peripheral venous blood was collected from patients in the Bifidobacterium tetrapunctate tablets group and the control group before and after intervention to measure the optical density values of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-2 (IL-2), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) using the Beijing Biolite ELISA kit. This study was conducted with the approval of the Ethics Committee of Changzhi Medical College. 1. The 2hPBG, total cholesterol and LDL levels were observed among patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) across all groups: the Jin Gui Ren Qi Pill group, the Bifidobacterium bifidum tetragonum tablets group, and the control group (p < 0.05). 2. The Jin Gui Ren Qi Pill demonstrated superior efficacy in alleviating TCM symptoms and reducing the ACR compared to both the Bifidobacterium bifidum tetragonum tablets group and the control group. Conversely, Bifidobacterium bifidum tetragonum tablets exhibited a more pronounced reduction in TC levels compared to both the Jin Gui Ren Qi Pill and control groups. Notably, Bifidobacterium bifidum tetragonum tablets effectively decreased (IL-2) levels in patients with DKD. 3. Bifidobacterium bifidum tetragonum tablets also demonstrated efficacy in reducing IL-2 levels in DKD patients. 4. Analysis of intestinal microorganism abundance and diversity before and after the intervention, as well as among the three groups, revealed no significant alterations. Similarly, comparisons of ACE, Chao, Simpson, and Shannon indices showed no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05). 5. Qualitative analysis of intestinal microorganisms before and after intervention, as well as among the three groups, indicated no significant differences. Anosim test results also did not reveal qualitative distinctions (Anosim test R = 0.021, p = 0.215). 6. LEfSe analysis unveiled a noteworthy increase in Prevotella_7 abundance within the Jin Gui Ren Qi Pill group post-intervention (p < 0.05). 7. Furthermore, Chinese medicine evidence scores, body mass index, TC, and LDL levels correlated positively with the relative abundance of Tyzzerella_3 bacterial flora. Conversely, age, disease duration, and 2hPBG correlated positively with the relative abundance of Christensenellaceae_R_7 flora, while TC and LDL levels displayed a negative correlation with the relative abundance of Christensenellaceae_R_7 flora. The combination of Jin Gui Ren Qi Pill with western medical treatment exhibited superior efficacy in ameliorating clinical symptoms and reducing the ACR in patients with DKD compared to western medical treatment alone. Furthermore, this combination therapy led to an increase in the abundance of Prevotella_7 within the intestinal flora of patients, suggesting a potential enhancement in carbohydrate metabolism by the intestinal microbiota. On the other hand, Bifidobacterium bifidum tetragonum tablets bacterial tablets combined with western medical treatment demonstrated enhanced efficacy in reducing TC levels in DKD patients compared to western medical treatment alone. Additionally, this combination therapy effectively reduced the levels of IL-2 in DKD patients, thus mitigating inflammation in these individuals.

Developing a Symbiotic Fermented Milk Product with Microwave-Treated Hawthorn Extract

The rising interest in functional foods has increased the use of probiotics and prebiotics in fermented dairy products to enhance gut health. This study focuses on developing a symbiotic fermented milk product using Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum activated with hawthorn extract as a prebiotic. Three versions of the product were tested: a control and two variants with B. bifidum activated with 10−5 g/cm3 and 10−10 g/cm3 hawthorn extract, respectively. Key characteristics such as microbiological safety, sensory properties, amino acid profile, vitamin and mineral content, antioxidant capacity, and nutritional values were evaluated. Results showed that products enriched with hawthorn extract had favorable sensory properties and sustained high levels of lactic acid bacteria while being free of pathogens. Product 1 based on L. acidophilus and enriched with B. bifidum activated with hawthorn extract at a concentration of 10−5 g/cm3 demonstrated significant increases in L. acidophilus (24.1%) and B. bifidum (14.7%) after 7 days compared to the control. Both enriched products exhibited slower titratable acidity increases and higher viscosities over 14 days, indicating better preservation and texture stability. Product 1 was notably enriched with essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, alongside enhanced antioxidant properties due to increased flavonoid content. The technology developed ensures probiotic viability at 109–1010 CFU/cm3 after 14 days, making it viable for dairy production.

In Vitro Evaluation of Probiotic Properties and Anti-Pathogenic Effects of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium Strains as Potential Probiotics.

Probiotics restore gut microbial balance, thereby providing health-promoting effects to the host. They have long been suggested for managing intestinal disorders caused by pathogens and for improving gut health. This study evaluated the probiotic properties and anti-pathogenic effects of specific probiotic strains against the intestinal pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The tested strains-Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LC27, Limosilactobacillus reuteri NK33, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus NK210, Bifidobacterium longum NK46, and Bifidobacterium bifidum NK175-were able to survive harsh conditions simulating gastric and intestinal fluids. These strains exhibited good auto-aggregation abilities (41.8-92.3%) and ideal hydrophobicity (30.9-85.6% and 38.3-96.1% for xylene and chloroform, respectively), along with the ability to co-aggregate with S. aureus (40.6-68.2%) and E. coli (38.6-75.2%), indicating significant adhesion levels to Caco-2 cells. Furthermore, these strains' cell-free supernatants (CFSs) demonstrated antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity against S. aureus and E. coli. Additionally, these strains inhibited gas production by E. coli through fermentative activity. These findings suggest that the strains tested in this study have potential as novel probiotics to enhance gut health.

A comparative study of the substrate preference of the sialidases, CpNanI, HpNanH, and BbSia2 towards 2-Aminobenzamide-labeled 3′-Sialyllactose, 6′-Sialyllactose, and Sialyllacto-N-tetraose-b

Sialidases catalyze the removal of terminal sialic acids from sialylated biomolecules, and their substrate preference is frequently indicated in terms of the glycosidic linkages cleaved (α2-3, α2-6, and α2-8) without mention of the remaining sub-terminal reducing-end saccharide moieties. Many human gut commensal and pathogenic bacteria secrete sialidases to forage for sialic acids, which are then utilized as an energy source or assimilated into membrane/capsular structural components. Infant gut commensals similarly utilize sialylated human milk oligosaccharides containing different glycosidic linkages. Here, we have studied the preference of the bacterial sialidases, BbSia2 from Bifidobacterium bifidum, CpNanI from Clostridium perfringens, and HpNanH from Glaesserella parasuis, for the glycosidic linkages, Siaα2-3Gal, Siaα2-6Gal, and Siaα2-6GlcNAc, by employing 2-Aminobenzamide-labeled human milk oligosaccharides, 3′-Sialyllactose (3′-SL), 6′-Sialyllactose (6′-SL), and Sialyllacto-N-tetraose-b (LSTb), respectively, as proxies for these glycosidic linkages. BbSia2, CpNanI, and HpNanH hydrolyzed these three oligosaccharides with the glycosidic linkage preferences, 3′-SL (Siaα2-3Gal) ≥ LSTb (Siaα2-6GlcNAc) ≥ 6′-SL (Siaα2-6Gal), 3′-SL (Siaα2-3Gal) ≥ 6′-SL (Siaα2-6Gal) > LSTb (Siaα2-6GlcNAc), and 3′-SL (Siaα2-3Gal) ≥ 6′-SL (Siaα2-6Gal) > LSTb (Siaα2-6GlcNAc), respectively. Our finding suggests that sub-terminal reducing-end saccharide moieties can profoundly influence the substrate preference of sialidases, and advocates for the characterization and indication of the substrate preference of sialidases in terms of both the glycosidic linkage and the sub-terminal reducing-end saccharide moiety.

Add-On Bifidobacterium Bifidum Supplement in Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A 12-Week Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.

We conducted a 12-week randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial to investigate the potential impact of Bifidobacterium bifidum (Bf-688) supplementation on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children with ADHD who were already receiving a stable dose of methylphenidate (MPH) treatment were enrolled and were randomly assigned to two groups: one receiving add-on Bf-688 (daily bacterial count of 5 × 109 CFUs) (n = 51) and the other receiving a placebo (n = 51). All participants underwent assessments using Conners' Continuous Performance Test (CPT) and Conners' Continuous Auditory Test of Attention (CATA). Additionally, fecal samples were collected at the beginning of the trial (week 0) and at the endpoint (week 12). Remarkably, the group receiving Bf-688 supplementation, but not the placebo group, exhibited significant improvements in omission errors in CPT as well as Hit reaction time in both CPT and CATA. Gut microbiome analysis revealed a significant increase in the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio (F/B ratio) only in the Bf-688 group. Furthermore, we identified significant negative correlations between N-Glycan biosynthesis and Hit reaction time in both CPT and CATA. Our results demonstrate that the probiotic Bf-688 supplement can enhance neuropsychological performance in children with ADHD, possibly by altering the composition of the gut microbiota, ultimately leading to reduced N-Glycan biosynthesis.

Fingerprint profiling for quality evaluation and the related biological activity analysis of polysaccharides from Liuweizhiji Gegen-Sangshen beverage.

Liuweizhiji Gegen-Sangshen beverage (LGS) is popular in China, which has been used for alleviating alcohol-mediated discomfort and preventing alcoholic liver disease (ALD). This beverage is consisted of six herbal components that are known as functional foods and fruits. LGS is rich in polysaccharides, however, the activity and quality evaluation of LGS-derived polysaccharides remain unexplored. The purpose of this study is thus to establish a comprehensive quality control methodology for the assessment of LGS polysaccharides (LGSP) and to further explore the anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory as well as prebiotic effect of LGSP. LGSP was extracted, followed by analysis of molecular weight distribution, monosaccharide content and structural characterization via integrating the application of high-performance size exclusion chromatography (HPSEC), 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone-HPLC (PMP-HPLC), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) as well as nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) techniques. The anti-oxidation activity of LGSP was determined by DPPH, ABTS, hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity and total antioxidant capacity. The anti-inflammation of LGSP were assessed on the RAW 264.7 cells. The effect of LGSP on growth of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bifidobacterium adolescentis was evaluated. The results demonstrated that LGSP had two molecular weight distribution peaks, with the average molecular weights of (6.569 ± 0.12) × 104 Da and (4.641 ± 0.30) × 104 Da. LGSP was composed of 8 monosaccharides, with galacturonic acid, glucose rhamnose and galactose representing the highest molar ratios. Homogalacturonic acid (HG) type and rhamnosegalacturonic acid glycans I (RG-I) type and α-1,4-glucan were present in LGSP. LGSP concentration in LGS was 17.94 ± 0.28 mg/mL. Furthermore, fingerprint analysis combined with composition quantification of 10 batches of LGSP demonstrated that there was a high similarity among batches. Notably, LGSP exhibited anti-oxidant effect and inhibited expressions of pro-inflammatory factors (TNF-α and IL-6) in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. In addition, LGSP remarkably promoted the proliferation of probiotics Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bifidobacterium adolescentis, showing good prebiotic activity. The results of present study would be of help to gain the understanding of structure-activity relationship of LGSP, provide a reference for quality evaluation of bioactive LGSP, and facilitate development of unique health and functional products in the future.

Surface proteins of Bifidobacterium bifidum DNG6 growing in 2′-fucosyllactose alleviating lipopolysaccharide-induced intestinal barrier injury in vitro

Human milk oligosaccharides promote the growth and adhesion of Bifidobacteria, thus exerting multiple biological functions on intestinal epithelial cells. Bacterial surface proteins play an important role in bacterial-host intestinal epithelial interactions. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of surface proteins extracted from Bifidobacterium bifidum DNG6 (B. bifidum DNG6) consuming 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL) on Caco-2 cells monolayer barrier injury induced by lipopolysaccharide, compared with lactose and galacto-oligosaccharides. Our results indicated that 2'-FL may promote the surface proteins of B. bifidum DNG6 to improve intestinal barrier injury by positively regulating the NF-κB signaling pathway, reducing inflammation (TNF-α reduced by 50.34%, IL-6 reduced by 22.83%, IL-1β reduced by 37.91%, and IL-10 increased by 63.47%) and strengthening tight junction proteins (ZO,1 2.39×; claudin,1 2.79×; and occluding, 4.70×). The findings of this study indicate that 2'-FL can further regulate intestinal barrier damage by promoting the alteration of B. bifidum DNG6 surface proteins. The findings of this research will also provide theoretical support for the development of synbiotic formulations.

Viability-PCR for the selective detection of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum in live bacteria-containing products.

To exert their beneficial effects, microorganisms used in live bacteria-containing products must be viable and present in certain amounts. In this study, we developed a viability assay based on quantitative PCR coupled with propidium monoazide for the identification and enumeration of viable Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum. In order to optimize the protocol, the thermal inactivation conditions for the two target microorganisms and the PMA concentration inhibiting DNA amplification from the dead cells while allowing it from the live cells were first determined. The viability-PCR protocol was then applied to analyze a commercial product containing the two microorganisms. The quantities of both microorganisms determined using viability-PCR in the tested product were significantly higher than those obtained using the standard plate count, suggesting the presence of bacteria in a viable but non-culturable physiological state. Moreover, lower amounts of the two microorganisms were detected using viability-PCR compared to those achieved using quantitative PCR, possibly because of the presence of dead cells in the samples. Our results suggest that the viability-PCR method proposed here is a suitable alternative for rapid and accurate quantification and assessment of the viability of L. acidophilus and B. bifidum and could be easily adopted in the quality control screening of live bacteria-containing products.

Insights into the Impact of Bifidobacterium bifidum, B. breve, and B. longum on the Immune Response Against Salmonella Infection in Neonatal Rats

Insights into the Impact of Bifidobacterium bifidum, B. breve, and B. longum on the Immune Response Against Salmonella Infection in Neonatal Rats

Preoperative Multistrain Probiotic Supplementation Does Not Affect Body Weight Changes or Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Bariatrics: Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.

Emerging evidence suggests that microbiota plays a crucial role in the development, progression, and therapeutic options in obesity and its comorbidities. This study assessed preoperative probiotic therapy's impact on bariatric treatment outcomes. A 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 48 patients undergoing bariatric surgery was conducted. Participants received probiotics-Sanprobi Barrier-which contained nine strains of bacteria: Bifidobacterium bifidum W23, Bifidobacterium lactis W51 and W52, Lactobacillus acidophilus W37, Levilactobacillus brevis W63, Lacticaseibacillus casei W56, Ligilactobacillus salivarius W24, Lactococcus lactis W19, and Lactococcus lactis W58. Primary outcomes included excess body weight loss, body weight loss, and excess body mass index loss, with secondary objectives focusing on metabolic profiles. Surgical treatment of obesity significantly improved anthropometric and metabolic parameters. No significant differences were observed in primary outcomes or in secondary outcomes between groups at any time point post-surgery. Preoperative probiotics administration did not affect clinical outcomes 1, 3, or 6 months following bariatric surgery.

The Effect of Probiotic Supplementation on Morphine Preference in Rats: Possible Antioxidative/Oxidative Signaling Pathway

Background: Many studies have revealed various aspects of the relationship between the stomach and the brain, but there has been no systematic study of the role of gut microbiota in drug addiction to date. This investigation is based on the novel concept that gut dysbiosis plays an important role in addiction disorders. Probiotic supplements (PBS) are thought to be a useful therapy method for opiate addiction and substance misuse. Therefore, it is postulated that changes in gut flora can play a significant part in the addiction process. Objectives: The aim of this study was to observe whether PBS, through the gut-brain axis in drug addiction, can decrease morphine (Mor) tendency in rats by affecting oxidative stress (OS) markers, using a conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm. Methods: Forty-two rats (weight 180 - 200 g) were divided into six groups (n = 7 in each). The effective dose of morphine (Mor) was 7.5 mg/kg. Two probiotic supplements were used: Prodigest (Prd) containing Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Bifidobacterium longum, and Prokid (Prk) containing Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Bifidobacterium bifidum. These were administered via gavage for 14 days. The animals were given PBS after each conditioning session in the conditioned place preference (CPP) model. The animals' locomotor activity was then evaluated using an open field apparatus. The brain was tested for malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and thiol levels. Results: Only the Prd group, but not the Prk group, significantly increased the time spent in the Mor chamber (the location preference index) during the acquisition phase (P &lt; 0.05). The anti-oxidation/oxidation profiles (MDA, NO, CAT, SOD, TAC, and thiol) were altered by PBS. Conclusions: Given the elevated location preference index generated by Mor, it may be argued that PBS influences mood and behavior via antioxidative/oxidative signaling, thereby potentiating the effect of Mor.

Bifidobacterium bifidum SAM-VI Riboswitch Conformation Change Requires Peripheral Helix Formation.

The Bifidobacterium bifidum SAM-VI riboswitch undergoes dynamic conformational changes that modulate downstream gene expression. Traditional structural methods such as crystallography capture the bound conformation at high resolution, and additional efforts would reveal details from the dynamic transition. Here, we revealed a transcription-dependent conformation model for Bifidobacterium bifidum SAM-VI riboswitch. In this study, we combine small-angle X-ray scattering, chemical probing, and isothermal titration calorimetry to unveil the ligand-binding properties and conformational changes of the Bifidobacterium bifidum SAM-VI riboswitch and its variants. Our results suggest that the SAM-VI riboswitch contains a pre-organized ligand-binding pocket and stabilizes into the bound conformation upon binding to SAM. Whether the P1 stem formed and variations in length critically influence the conformational dynamics of the SAM-VI riboswitch. Our study provides the basis for artificially engineering the riboswitch by manipulating its peripheral sequences without modifying the SAM-binding core.

QUALITATIVE STUDIES OF CREAM CHEESE MADE BY USING BIFIDOBACTERIUM BIFIDUM &amp; LACTOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS

World is facing a lot of health problems especially in under developed countries of Asia. This crucial situation demands beneficial foods. This study was planned to produce quality Cream cheese. Probiotic Cream cheese had been promoted for health benefits by using Bifidobacterium bifidum &amp; Lactobacillus acidophilus. Buffalo milk was used to produce Cream cheese. Five treatments were handled; T₀ was the regular treatment in which yoghurt culture was inoculated to make Cream cheese while a combination of yoghurt as well as Bifidobacterium bifidum &amp; Lactobacillus acidophilus was inoculated in T1, T2 and T3. Besides T4 was produced by using only Bifidobacterium bifidum &amp; Lactobacillus acidophilus. In the process milk was standardised up to 5% milk fat then it was pasteurized (63°C for 30 minutes). Cooled to 42°C and 2% starter culture was inoculated in that mixture. After incubation the pH reached up to 4.6. Salt (0.5-1%) was added and product packed into plastic cups and stored (4°C, 4 weeks). Qualitative study of the product showed that T4 treatment was better as compare to T₀, T1, T2 and T3. Conclusively, probiotic Cream cheese produced by using buffalo milk is beneficial for reducing health problems like gastric problems, colon cancer etc. This product can play a vital role in functional foods industry as well as cheese industry.

Probiotic LB101 alleviates dry eye in mice by suppressing matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression through the regulation of gut microbiota-involved NF-κB signaling.

Tear matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 is an inflammatory signal in patients with dry eye (DE). In the present study, to understand the action mechanism of probiotic LB101 (Lactobacillus plantarum NK151 and Bifidobacterium bifidum NK175 [4:1] mix) against DE, we investigated its effect on tear amount and inflammatory marker expression levels in mice with unilateral exorbital lacrimal gland excision/atropine-benzalkonium chloride application (EB) or fecal microbiota transplantation from mice with EB (eFMT). Oral gavage of LB101 increased EB-suppressed tear amount and decreased EB-induced blinking number. Furthermore, LB101 decreased EB-induced TNF-α, IL-1β, and MMP-9 expression, TNF-α+ and NF-κB+CD11c+ cell populations, and edema in the conjunctiva, while EB-suppressed IL-10 and occludin expression increased. LB101 also decreased EB-induced TNF-α and IL-1β expression and NF-κB+CD11c+ cell population in the colon. eFMT also decreased tear amount and increased blinking number in the transplanted mice. eFMT increased TNF-α, IL-1β, and MMP-9 expression and TNF-α+ and NF-κB+CD11c+ cell populations in the conjunctiva and TNF-α and IL-1β expression and NF-κB+CD11c+ cell populations in the colon. Oral gavage of LB101 increased eFMT-suppressed tear amount and decreased eFMT-induced blinking number. Furthermore, LB101 decreased TNF-α, IL-1β, and MMP-9 expression, TNF-α+ and NF-κB+CD11c+ cell populations, and edema in the conjunctiva and TNF-α and IL-1β expression and NF-κB+CD11c+ cell population in the colon, while eFMT-suppressed IL-10 and occludin expression decreased. Furthermore, LB101 increased eFMT-suppressed Muribaculaceae, Prevotellaceae, and Lactobacillaceae populations in the gut microbiota, while eFMT-induced Bacteroidaceae population decreased. These findings suggest that DE may cause gut dysbiosis, which may be a risk factor for DE, and LB101 may alleviate DE with gut inflammation by suppressing the expression of MMP-9 and proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β with the regulation of gut microbiota-involved NF-κB signaling.

Proliferation of probiotics and antioxidant effects of functional oligosaccharides added in fermented dairy product

To obtain functional fermented dairy products with strong probiotic proliferation and high antioxidant ability, the proliferation ability of oligosaccharides on probiotics and their DPPH radical scavenging ability were studied. Key functional oligosaccharides (galactooligosaccharide and galactomannan oligosaccharide) and probiotics (Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus acidophilus) were selected. The orthogonal experimental design of L9(34) was employed to study the optimal process, which was adding 5 g/L galactomannan oligosaccharide and 5 g/L galactooligosaccharide in reconstituted milk, inoculating 1% Streptococcus thermophilus, 1% Lactobacillus bulgaricus and 1% probiotics (B. bifidum and L. acidophilus = 2:1) and fermenting for 6 h. This work is important for preparing functional fermented dairy products with a high content of probiotics and strong antioxidant capacity.