Modulation Of Immune System Research Articles

Retinal microvascular alterations in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis without cardiovascular risk factors: the potential effects of T cell co-stimulation blockade.

The evaluation of microvascular alterations might provide clinically useful information for patients with an increased cardiovascular (CV) risk, such as those with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), being the small artery remodeling the earliest form of target organ damage in primary CV diseases, such as arterial hypertension. The evaluation of retinal arterioles is a non-invasive technique aimed to identify an early microvascular damage, represented by the increase of the wall-to-lumen ratio (WLR) index. Abatacept (ABA), a T-cell co-stimulator blocker, is used to treat RA. A CV protective action was hypothesized for its peculiar mechanism of action in the modulation of T-cells, potentially involved in the pathogenesis of CV comorbidity. The study aimed to non-invasively investigate morphological characteristics of retinal arterioles in a cohort of RA patients treated with ABA. Seventeen RA patients [median (25th-75thpercentile) age = 58 (48-64) years, baseline 28-joint Disease Activity Score DAS28-C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP) = 4.4 (3.9-4.6), body mass index (BMI) = 24.2 (23.4-26) kg/m2, rheumatoid factor positive:52.9%, anti-citrullinated peptide autoantibodies positive:76.5%] without known CV risk factors (arterial hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, previous CV events, smoking) were evaluated by the adaptive optics imaging system of retinal arterioles before and every 6 months of therapy with ABA (T0, T6 and T12). Office blood pressure evaluation, 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and tissue-doppler echocardiography were also performed. A progressive significant reduction of the WLR of retinal arterioles was observed [T0 = 0.28 (0.25-0.30), T6 = 0.27 (0.24-0.31), T12 = 0.23 (0.23-0.26); p T0 vs. T6 = 0.414; p T6 vs. T12 = 0.02; p T0 vs. T12 = 0.009], without significant variations in other parameters. The T0-T12 reduction of WLR was correlated with that of DAS28-CRP (r:0.789; p = 0.005). Moreover, a significant reduction of diastolic office blood pressure and a trend for reduction of daily pressure measured by ambulatory monitoring were observed. In a cohort of RA patients without known CV risk factors, a reduction of retinal microvascular alterations was demonstrated after treatment for 12 months with ABA, in parallel with the reduction of disease activity. These results might suggest the possibility of microvascular abnormalities regression induced by the immune system modulation.

A brief overview of carotenoids and their applications

Carotenoids are naturally occurring pigments found abundantly across various fruits, vegetables, and other foods that are plant-based. They impart variety of colors to the microorganism, fruits, vegetables with their striking red, orange, and yellow colors. Beyond contributing to the aesthetic appeal of these foods, carotenoids make a significant impact on human health. They are known for their antioxidant properties, offering protection against oxidative stress and damage caused by potentially harmful free radicals. Antioxidant property of carotenoids is due to presence of conjugated double bonds (CDB) that are present in their chemical structure.By reducing oxidative stress, carotenoids help protect the body against various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. They are also well known for their pro-vitamin A activity, immune system modulation, and ability to scavenge free radicals while protecting against UV radiation. Because humans are not able to synthesize carotenoids, they must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Carotenoids’ anti-cancerous/cancer preventative action is the main factor contributing to their pharmacological significances.Carotenoids also known for bacterial pathogenicity by acting as virulence factors.Carotenoids are also known to impart color hence beneficial for the food and beverage industries, textile industries etc.They are being used more frequently as substitutes for artificial colorants and additives as growing consumer interest in sustainable and natural products. Thus, the primary focus of this review is on the fundamental knowledge of carotenoids and its numerous applications in industries and human health.

Systemic Immune Modulation by Gastrointestinal Nematodes.

Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infection has applied significant evolutionary pressure to the mammalian immune system and remains a global economic and human health burden. Upon infection, type 2 immune sentinels activate a common antihelminth response that mobilizes and remodels the intestinal tissue for effector function; however, there is growing appreciation of the impact GIN infection also has on the distal tissue immune state. Indeed, this effect is observed even in tissues through which GINs never transit. This review highlights how GIN infection modulates systemic immunity through (a) induction of host resistance and tolerance responses, (b) secretion of immunomodulatory products, and (c) interaction with the intestinal microbiome. It also discusses the direct consequences that changes to distal tissue immunity can have for concurrent and subsequent infection, chronic noncommunicable diseases, and vaccination efficacy. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Immunology, Volume 42 is April 2024. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.

Gene-environment interaction in the pathophysiology of type 1 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a complex metabolic autoimmune disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide and often leads to significant comorbidities. However, the precise trigger of autoimmunity and disease onset remain incompletely elucidated. This integrative perspective article synthesizes the cumulative role of gene-environment interaction in the pathophysiology of T1D. Genetics plays a significant role in T1D susceptibility, particularly at the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) locus and cathepsin H (CTSH) locus. In addition to genetics, environmental factors such as viral infections, pesticide exposure, and changes in the gut microbiome have been associated with the development of T1D. Alterations in the gut microbiome impact mucosal integrity and immune tolerance, increasing gut permeability through molecular mimicry and modulation of the gut immune system, thereby increasing the risk of T1D potentially through the induction of autoimmunity. HLA class II haplotypes with known effects on T1D incidence may directly correlate to changes in the gut microbiome, but precisely how the genes influence changes in the gut microbiome, and how these changes provoke T1D, requires further investigations. These gene-environment interactions are hypothesized to increase susceptibility to T1D through epigenetic changes such as DNA methylation and histone modification, which in turn modify gene expression. There is a need to determine the efficacy of new interventions that target these epigenetic modifications such as "epidrugs", which will provide novel avenues for the effective management of T1D leading to improved quality of life of affected individuals and their families/caregivers.

Obesity and Cancer Rehabilitation for Functional Recovery and Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Review

Obesity is a global health challenge with increasing prevalence, and its intricate relationship with cancer has become a critical concern in cancer care. As a result, understanding the multifactorial connections between obesity and breast cancer is imperative for risk stratification, tailored screening, and rehabilitation treatment planning to address long-term survivorship issues. The review follows the SANRA quality criteria and includes an extensive literature search conducted in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus. The biological basis linking obesity and cancer involves complex interactions in adipose tissue and the tumor microenvironment. Various mechanisms, such as hormonal alterations, chronic inflammation, immune system modulation, and mitochondrial dysfunction, contribute to cancer development. The review underlines the importance of comprehensive oncologic rehabilitation, including physical, psychological, and nutritional aspects. Cancer rehabilitation plays a crucial role in managing obesity-related symptoms, offering interventions for physical impairments, pain management, and lymphatic disorders, and improving both physical and psychological well-being. Personalized and technology-driven approaches hold promise for optimizing rehabilitation effectiveness and improving long-term outcomes for obese cancer patients. The comprehensive insights provided in this review contribute to the evolving landscape of cancer care, emphasizing the importance of tailored rehabilitation in optimizing the well-being of obese cancer patients.

Why D3 Is Most Selling Vitamin?

Purpose: This whitepaper examines the chemical composition, synthesis, and sources of Vitamin D3, emphasizing the importance of optimal levels for overall well-being. It explores the role of Vitamin D3 in various physiological processes beyond bone health, including immune system support, anti-inflammatory effects, cardiovascular health, cancer prevention, mental well-being, autoimmune disease management, muscle function, weight management, hormone regulation, dental health, and skin health.
 Methodology: The document provides a comprehensive overview of natural and dietary sources of Vitamin D3, including supplements. It outlines the synthesis process in the human body, emphasizing the role of magnesium and key enzymes. Popular Vitamin D3 supplements in the U.S. market are also presented.
 Findings: Vitamin D3, recognized as the "sunshine vitamin," offers diverse health benefits across multiple systems in the human body. Its popularity stems from advantages beyond bone health, contributing to immune system modulation, anti-inflammatory effects, cardiovascular health, cancer prevention, mental health, autoimmune disease management, muscle function, weight management, hormone regulation, dental health, and skin health.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: The paper contributes a comprehensive understanding of vitamin D3's multifaceted benefits, stressing the need for dietary intake and supplementation. It suggests potential implications for public health strategies, especially in regions with limited sunlight exposure.

Genomic analysis of Salmonella enterica from Metropolitan Manila abattoirs and markets reveals insights into circulating virulence and antimicrobial resistance genotypes.

The integration of next-generation sequencing into the identification and characterization of resistant and virulent strains as well as the routine surveillance of foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella enterica have not yet been accomplished in the Philippines. This study investigated the antimicrobial profiles, virulence, and susceptibility of the 105 S. enterica isolates from swine and chicken samples obtained from slaughterhouses and public wet markets in Metropolitan Manila using whole-genome sequence analysis. Four predominant serovars were identified in genotypic serotyping, namely, Infantis (26.7%), Anatum (19.1%), Rissen (18.1%), and London (13.3%). Phenotypic antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiling revealed that 65% of the isolates were resistant to at least one antibiotic, 37% were multidrug resistant (MDR), and 57% were extended-spectrum β-lactamase producers. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that isolates had resistance genes and plasmids belonging to the Col and Inc plasmid families that confer resistance against tetracycline (64%), sulfonamide (56%), and streptomycin (56%). Further analyses revealed the presence of 155 virulence genes, 42 of which were serovar-specific. The virulence genes primarily code for host immune system modulators, iron acquisition enzyme complexes, host cell invasion proteins, as well as proteins that allow intracellular and intramacrophage survival. This study showed that virulent MDR S. enterica and several phenotypic and genotypic AMR patterns were present in the food chain. It serves as a foundation to understand the current AMR status in the Philippines food chain and to prompt the creation of preventative measures and efficient treatments against foodborne pathogens.

Self-assembled fructo-oligosaccharide conjugated ferulic acid microparticle: Anticancer, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects

Fructo-oligosaccharide ferulic acid conjugate was synthesized, which self-assembles into disc shaped amorphous microparticles (FA FOS I), that could be used for targeted delivery to the colon. It is accessed for its ability to ameliorate colorectal cancer and inflammation. The microparticle exhibited selective cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction in colon cancer cells. The microparticle arrested the cell cycle in the G0-G1 phase. In-vivo anti-colorectal cancer activity were evaluated in colitis associated colon cancer mice model. There was a reduction in 60.83% of tumour lesions and 48.27% reduction in the malignant cells. The immunohistochemistry (IHC) revealed the suppression of inflammation and related inflammatory cytokines in the colon. The inhibition of cell proliferation, up-regulation of tumour suppressor protein and induction of apoptosis in the malignant cells were observed. The evaluation of immune modulation by FA FOS I microparticle revealed a 9% increase in WBC count and an increase in the infiltration of T-helper cells and cytotoxic T-cells into the tumour microenvironment. There was a considerable decrease in the expression of immune suppressing PD-L1 by the tumour cells on treatment with FA FOS I microparticle. All these data implicate better efficacy of the FA FOS I microparticle delivery to colon and amelioration of colitis associated colorectal cancer through multimodal route of inflammation reduction, apoptosis induction and positive modulation of immune system in the tumour microenvironment. FA FOS I was proposed to be a candidate drug which is physiologically and metabolically stable under gastro-intestinal condition and potentiating its effect in the target site large intestine; without being absorbed or transported to other tissue nor causing any adverse cytotoxicity to the neighbouring normal tissue.

Xylooligosaccharide Production From Lignocellulosic Biomass and Their Health Benefits as Prebiotics

Lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) comprising of wheat bran, coconut husk, rice husk, cereals straw, and other hardwood and softwoods is a good source for the production of xylooligosaccharides (XOS) (prebiotic). XOS produced are nondigestible carbohydrates being stable under stomach pH and digestive enzymes so they can be easily delivered to the intestine in native form, thus stimulating the growth of probiotics. Here we review about the raw material, production, purification, and application of XOS with health benefits. Importance of XOS being valuable food ingredient is increasing as they perform a variety of functions, including reduction in cholesterol levels, gastrointestinal health maintenance, anticancer and antioxidant properties, and modulation of immune system. We also discuss the different characterization methods which are necessary to determine the degree of polymerization (DP) of XOS. Low DP (xylobiose and xylotriose) is usually preferred for the application of XOS in various sectors. This review emphasizes the growing significance of XOS as a prebiotic, serving as nourishment for probiotics.

A whole-course-repair system based on ROS/glucose stimuli-responsive EGCG release and tunable mechanical property for efficient treatment of chronic periodontitis in diabetic rats.

Elevated glucose levels, multiple pro-inflammatory cytokines and the generation of excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) are pivotal characteristics within the microenvironments of chronic periodontitis with diabetes mellitus (CPDM). Control of inflammation and modulation of immune system are required in the initial phase of CPDM treatment, while late severe periodontitis requires a suitable scaffold to promote osteogenesis, rebuild periodontal tissue and reduce alveolar bone resorption. Herein, a whole-course-repair system is introduced by an injectable hydrogel using phenylboronic acid functionalized oxidized sodium alginate (OSA-PBA) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC). Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) was loaded to simultaneously adjust the mechanical property of the OSA-PBA/CMC + EGCG hydrogel (OPCE). This hydrogel has distinctive adaptability, injectability, and ROS/glucose-triggered release of EGCG, making it an ideal drug delivery carrier. As expected, OPCE hydrogel shows favourable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, along with a regulatory influence on the phenotypic transition of macrophages, providing a favourable immune microenvironment. Apart from that, it provides a favourable mechanical support for osteoblast/osteoclast differentiation regulation at the late proliferation stage of periodontal regeneration. The practical therapeutic effects of OPCE hydrogels were also confirmed when applied for treating periodontitis in diabetic rats. In summary, OPCE hydrogel may be a promising whole-course-repair system for the treatment of CPDM.

Evaluation of the Hepatoprotective Effect of the Lumpy Bracket Medicinal Mushroom Trametes gibbosa (Agaricomycetes) on CCl4-Induced Liver Injury in Rats.

Mushrooms have been used as medicine by humans for more than 5000 years. They have had a successful role in treating immune deficiencies. Nowadays, some extracts and compounds obtained from medicinal mushrooms have increased a great prospect of treating many disorders by having a great role in modulation of immune system, cancer inhibiting, cardio-vascular health, antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant and protective effects against hepatitis and diabetes. In this study, we evaluated the antioxidant effect of methanol and hot water extract of the Trametes gibbosa (Pers.) Fr. mushroom and hepatoprotective effect of the extract with the most radical scavenging potency. To assess the antioxidant properties of different extracts of the mushroom, DPPH method was used. For assessing the hepatoprotective properties, a seven-day experiment was designed, and liver toxicity was induced by carbon tetrachloride [intraperitoneal (ip) for 7 consecutive days, 0.5 mL/kg body weight (BW)]. Rats were simultaneously fed with aqueous extract of the mushroom with the dose of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg BW and silymarin (100 mg/kg BW) as positive control. At the end of the experiment, blood serums of the rats were collected for quantification of major liver factors (e.g., aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alanine phosphatase, bilirubin, etc.). Tissue samples were obtained for pathological examination. Based on the results, the aqueous extract showed more potent radical scavenging activity (half-maximal inhibitory concentration = 414.33 μg/mL, compared with 936.92 μg/mL for methanolic extract). Indeed, hepatoprotective properties of the aqueous extract of the mushroom (500 and 1000 mg/kg BW) were comparable with those of silymarin and even showed superior protective effects in histopathological examination. It seems that with further complementary studies, T. gibbosa could be considered a potential candidate for hepatoprotection.

Exploring the Link Between the Gut Mycobiome and Neurological Disorders

Long‐standing theories link genetics, environmental factors, and microbial dysbiosis as causes of neurological diseases. Even though the role of the human gut mycobiome in these disorders has drawn a lot of attention, recent research has begun to shed light on another microbial component, the gut mycobiome, and its potential involvement in neurological diseases. In an effort to comprehend the connection between the gut mycobiome and neurological illnesses, this exploratory investigation concentrates on the complex interactions between fungal populations and the central nervous system. This study investigates the mechanisms through which fungus species and their metabolites impact brain health and disease progression by evaluating the body of literature and recent discoveries. It also investigates how the gut mycobiome affects the blood–brain barrier’s integrity, the control of neurotransmitters, and immune system modulation. The outcomes provide new information on therapeutic approaches that target the fungal component of the gut microbiota and imply that changes in the composition and function of the gut mycobiome contribute to the onset and progression of neurological diseases. It is necessary to conduct more studies to clarify the precise mechanisms underpinning the gut mycobiome’s impact on neurological illnesses and to investigate the possibility of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches based on fungus modulation.

Synthesis of novel fluorescence probes and their application in the enantioselective recognition of arginine.

Arginine (Arg) plays a crucial and multifaceted role in various biological processes, encompassing cell division, wound healing, immune system modulation, and plant signaling. This study introduced a pair of novel chiral fluorescent probes, (R)-5 and (S)-5, constructed upon the BINOL framework, which exhibited enantiomeric selectivity and sensitivity to d-Arg/l-Arg in fluorescence experiments. These probes offered a simple, rapid, low-cost, and highly selective method for detecting Arg enantiomers, thereby providing a highly sensitive approach for their qualitative and quantitative analysis. The enantioselective fluorescence enhancement ratios {ef = [(I1 - I0)/(I2 - I0) = ΔI1/ΔI2]} of (R)-5 and (S)-5 to Arg were 1694 and 5163, respectively. Moreover, the probes demonstrated the capability to detect the concentration of d-Arg and l-Arg with a limit of detection of 4.84 × 10-7 M and 3.35 × 10-7 M, respectively, as well as determine the enantiomeric excess. These probes exhibited high chemical selectivity and enantioselectivity, enabling the identification of different configurations of Arg, quantification of Arg concentrations, and determination of the enantiomeric composition of Arg. This study provides valuable insights for the development of sensitive and selective chiral molecular detection methods, significantly advancing our comprehension of the relationship between Arg concentration and probe fluorescence response.

Application of methylene blue for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19: A narrative review.

The newest virus from the SARS family of viruses called acute syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes COVID-19 disease, was identified in China at the end of 2019. In March 2020, after it spread to 29 additional countries, it was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). SARS-CoV-2 infection mainly starts through the respiratory tract and causes a wide spectrum of symptoms from asymptomatic infections to acute respiratory distress syndrome with multi-organ failure and vasoplegic shock. Among the many immunomodulatory and antiviral drugs that have been studied for the treatment of COVID-19, methylene blue (MB) may play an influential role. This article reviews the history of MB applications, the antiviral effects of MB against SARS-CoV-2, and the results of in vivo and in vitro studies of the use of MB in COVID-19. Based on studies, MB can simultaneously affect most of the host's harmful responses caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection due to its multiple properties, including anti-hypoxemia, anti-oxidant, immune system modulator, and antiviral. The use of MB is associated with a reduction in the possibility of getting infection, and mortality, and can be used as a safe, effective, cheap, and available treatment option with minimal side effects for the clinical management of COVID-19.

ПРИМЕНЕНИЕ АНТИБАКТЕРИАЛЬНЫХ ПРЕПАРАТОВ В ПТИЦЕВОДСТВЕ

Due to the intensive development of poultry farming, infectious diseases have become widespread. One of the most common in poultry farming is colibacteriosis. In addition, salmonellosis, campylobacteriosis, staphylococcosis, clostridiosis, etc. are becoming more widespread. Antibiotics have so far been considered the main means of combating bacterial diseases. And for the treatment of humans, antibiotics are very often prescribed without taking into account the resistance of the etiological agent. The widespread use of antibiotics in poultry farming has led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which pose a significant risk to human and animal health. These public health issues, which have led to the adoption of legislation restricting the use of antibiotics in animals, necessitate the search for alternative strategies for the control and treatment of bacterial infections. Modulation of the innate immune system of birds using immunostimulating compounds is a promising solution to enhance the immune response of birds to a wide range of bacterial infections without the risk of developing antibiotic resistance. It was also found that antibiotics penetrate into livestock products — milk, meat, eggs and remain there even after heat treatment. After consuming products with a residual amount of antibiotics in the human body, microorganisms become resistant to antimicrobial drugs used in humane medicine, therefore, antibiotic therapy is often ineffective. The use of antibiotics for preventive purposes, non-compliance with the waiting period for the removal of animals and poultry from the body, the lack of production control for the content of antibiotics before the release of products leads to the appearance and spread of antibiotic-resistant, including epidemiologically (epizootically) significant strains of microorganisms. As for alternative therapies for bacterial diseases in birds, phage therapy against infection caused by S. typhimurium in chickens proved to be as effective as antibiotic therapy (enrofloxacin or colistin) and less invasive than the use of antibiotics, since fewer changes in the microbiome were observed.

Riboflavin ameliorates intestinal inflammation via immune modulation and alterations of gut microbiota homeostasis in DSS-colitis C57BL/6 mice.

While there have been advancements in understanding the direct and indirect impact of riboflavin (B2) on intestinal inflammation, the precise mechanisms are still unknown. This study focuses on evaluating the effects of riboflavin (B2) supplementation on a colitis mouse model induced with 3% dextran sodium sulphate (DSS). We administered three different doses of oral B2 (VB2L, VB2M, and VB2H) and assessed its impact on various physiological and biochemical parameters associated with colitis. Mice given any of the three doses exhibited relative improvement in the symptoms and intestinal damage. This was evidenced by the inhibition of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and CALP, along with an increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. B2 supplementation also led to a restoration of oxidative homeostasis, as indicated by a decrease in myeloperoxidase (MPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and an increase in reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) activities. B2 intervention showed positive effects on intestinal barrier function, confirmed by increased expression of tight junction proteins (occludin and ZO-1). B2 was linked to an elevated relative abundance of Actinobacteriota, Desulfobacterota, and Verrucomicrobiota. Notably, Verrucomicrobiota showed a significant increase in the VB2H group, reaching 15.03% relative abundance. Akkermansia exhibited a negative correlation with colitis and might be linked to anti-inflammatory function. Additionally, a remarkable increase in n-butyric acid, i-butyric acid, and i-valeric acid was reported in the VB2H group. The ameliorating role of B2 in gut inflammation can be attributed to immune system modulation as well as alterations in the gut microbiota composition, along with elevated levels of fecal SCFAs.

Formulation and Evaluation of Drumstick Leaves Tablet as An Immunomodulator.

The human immune system plays a pivotal role in protecting the body against pathogens, maintaining homeostasis, and preventing disease. Immunomodulation, the process of regulating immune responses, is crucial for optimal health. In recent years, there has been growing interest in natural remedies for immune system modulation, driven by the recognition of their potential efficacy and safety profiles. This project aims to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of drumstick leaves tablets, derived from Moringa oleifera, a plant known for its rich nutritional and medicinal properties. The study will explore the potential of drumstick leaves tablets to modulate immune responses through in vitro and in vivo experiments. Through comprehensive analysis of the immunomodulatory properties of drumstick leaves tablets, this project aims to contribute to our understanding of natural remedies for immune system modulation. The findings could have significant implications for the development of novel therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing immune function and improving human health.

Microbiota, natural products, and human health: exploring interactions for therapeutic insights.

The symbiotic relationship between the human digestive system and its intricate microbiota is a captivating field of study that continues to unfold. Comprising predominantly anaerobic bacteria, this complex microbial ecosystem, teeming with trillions of organisms, plays a crucial role in various physiological processes. Beyond its primary function in breaking down indigestible dietary components, this microbial community significantly influences immune system modulation, central nervous system function, and disease prevention. Despite the strides made in microbiome research, the precise mechanisms underlying how bacterial effector functions impact mammalian and microbiome physiology remain elusive. Unlike the traditional DNA-RNA-protein paradigm, bacteria often communicate through small molecules, underscoring the imperative to identify compounds produced by human-associated bacteria. The gut microbiome emerges as a linchpin in the transformation of natural products, generating metabolites with distinct physiological functions. Unraveling these microbial transformations holds the key to understanding the pharmacological activities and metabolic mechanisms of natural products. Notably, the potential to leverage gut microorganisms for large-scale synthesis of bioactive compounds remains an underexplored frontier with promising implications. This review serves as a synthesis of current knowledge, shedding light on the dynamic interplay between natural products, bacteria, and human health. In doing so, it contributes to our evolving comprehension of microbiome dynamics, opening avenues for innovative applications in medicine and therapeutics. As we delve deeper into this intricate web of interactions, the prospect of harnessing the power of the gut microbiome for transformative medical interventions becomes increasingly tantalizing.

Impact of cooperative or competitive dynamics between the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and lactobacilli on the immune response of the host.

Fungi and bacteria can be found coexisting in a wide variety of environments. The combination of their physical and molecular interactions can result in a broad range of outcomes for each partner, from competition to cooperative relationships. Most of these interactions can also be found in the human gastrointestinal tract. The gut microbiota is essential for humans, helping the assimilation of food components as well as the prevention of pathogen invasions through host immune system modulation and the production of beneficial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Several factors, including changes in diet habits due to the progressive Westernization of the lifestyle, are linked to the onset of dysbiosis statuses that impair the correct balance of the gut environment. It is therefore crucial to explore the interactions between commensal and diet-derived microorganisms and their influence on host health. Investigating these interactions through co-cultures between human- and fermented food-derived lactobacilli and yeasts led us to understand how the strains' growth yield and their metabolic products rely on the nature and concentration of the species involved, producing either cooperative or competitive dynamics. Moreover, single cultures of yeasts and lactobacilli proved to be ideal candidates for developing immune-enhancing products, given their ability to induce trained immunity in blood-derived human monocytes in vitro. Conversely, co-cultures as well as mixtures of yeasts and lactobacilli have been shown to induce an anti-inflammatory response on the same immune cells in terms of cytokine profiles and activation surface markers, opening new possibilities in the design of probiotic and dietary therapies.

Promoting Growth and Health of African Catfish, Clarias gariepinus, Through Dietary Novel Supplement, Ginger, Zingiber officinale Rosc, Leaf Powder

African catfish is a popular freshwater aquaculture species as it can be farmed at high stocking density. However, high stocking density caused growth and health impairment. Hence, nutritional approach such as feed additive can be applied in fish farming to overcome this issue. This study evaluated the impacts of ginger (Zingiber officinale) leaf powder (GLP) on growth performance, digestive enzymes activities, antioxidative response, and disease resistance towards Edwardsiella tarda infection in African catfish. A feeding trial was performed using a control diet and four formulated diets with GLP at 1, 2, 3, and 4%. Ginger is an herb used in cuisine and traditional medicine. It was reported possesses medicinal values such as antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, and immune system modulator. After eight weeks, the growth performance of GLP-treated African catfish was significantly improved than control, and the best results were observed in the 2 and 3% groups (p<0.05). Meanwhile, fish supplemented with 1 and 4% GLP demonstrated comparable growth performance. There was a significant decreasing trend in FCR, HSI, and VI, where the lowest values were recorded by the 2 and 3% GLP diet groups, followed by 1% GLP, 4% GLP, and control groups (p<0.05). The digestive enzymes activity, including amylase, lipase, and protease, was significantly higher in dietary GLP groups than in control, where the highest activity was exhibited by groups 2 and 3% GLP (p<0.05), followed by 1% and 4% GLP groups. There was an increasing trend in the antioxidative response, where the GLP-treated groups had significantly higher catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities than the control, and the highest was observed in fish fed with 2 and 3% GLP (p<0.05). Furthermore, the GLP-treated groups had a significantly higher cumulative survival rate than the control, where 2 and 3% GLP groups demonstrated the highest survival (p<0.05), followed by 1 and 4% GLP groups. In summary, this study revealed that dietary GLP potentially enhanced African catfish production at recommended doses of 2 and 3%.