Lactobacillus Supplementation Research Articles

Effects of Lactoferrin and Lactobacillus Supplementation on Immune Function, Oxidative Stress, and Gut Microbiota in Kittens.

Immune deficiency is a prevalent issue among kittens, severely threatening their health and development by increasing susceptibility to infections and diseases. This study investigates the effects of dietary supplements containing lactoferrin and Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) on the immune function, intestinal health, and microbiota composition of kittens. The results demonstrate that these supplements significantly enhance immune responses, with immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels increasing by 14.9% and IgG levels by 14.2%. Additionally, there was a notable 28.7% increase in catalase activity, indicating a reduction in oxidative stress. Gastrointestinal (GI) health improved markedly, evidenced by increased populations of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus, which rose from 4.13% to 79.03% over the study period. The DNC group also showed significant reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines, including decreases of 13.94% in IL-2, 26.46% in TNF-α, and 19.45% in IFN-γ levels. Furthermore, improvements in physical conditions were observed, including enhanced coat condition and mental status. These findings underline the potential of lactoferrin and L. plantarum as effective dietary interventions to improve kitten health, thereby reducing dependency on antibiotics and mitigating associated risks. This research provides a scientific foundation for optimizing nutritional management practices to enhance the overall vitality of kittens during their critical growth phases.

Gestational supplementation of Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Streptococcus thermophilus attenuates hepatic steatosis in offspring mice through promoting fatty acid β-oxidation.

Currently, Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Streptococcus thermophilus (BLS) are widely recognized as the crucially beneficial bacteria in the gut. Many preclinical and clinical studies have shown their protective effects against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, whether gestational BLS supplementation could alleviate NAFLD in the offspring is still unknown. Kunming mice were given a high-fat diet (HFD) for 4weeks before mating. They received BLS supplementation by gavage during pregnancy. After weaning, offspring mice were fed with a regular diet up to 5 weeks old. Gestational BLS supplementation significantly increased the abundance of Actinobacteriota, Bifidobacterium, and Faecalibaculum in the gut of dams exposed to HFD. In offspring mice exposed to maternal HFD, maternal BLS intake significantly decreased the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes as well as the relative abundance of Prevotella and Streptococcus, but increased the relative abundance of Parabacteroides. In offspring mice, maternal BLS supplementation significantly decreased the hepatic triglyceride content and mitigated hepatic steatosis. Furthermore, maternal BLS supplementation increased the glutathione content and reduced malondialdehyde content in the liver. In addition, mRNA and protein expression levels of key rate-limiting enzymes in mitochondrial β-oxidation (CPT1α, PPARα, and PGC1α) in the livers of offspring mice were significantly increased after gestational BLS supplementation. Thus, gestational BLS supplementation may ameliorate maternal HFD-induced steatosis and oxidative stress in the livers of offspring mice by modulating fatty acid β-oxidation.

Impact of vaginal microecological differences on pregnancy outcomes and endometrial microbiota in frozen embryo transfer cycles.

This prospective study investigates the correlation between vaginal microecology and pregnancy outcomes and explores their impact on endometrial microbiota composition during frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. Additionally, the impact of transvaginal Lactobacillus supplementation on reproductive outcomes in patients with previous failed cycles was assessed. A total of 379 patients undergoing FET at a reproductive medicine center were categorized into clinical pregnancy (CP), miscarriage (MISC), and non-pregnant (NP) groups. Vaginal specimens were collected for microecological evaluation prior to embryo transfer. Endometrial microbiota samples were obtained during embryo transfer for 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis to assess endometrial microbiota composition. Vaginal microecological indicators, including pH, Lactobacillus dominance, and leukocyte esterase activity, were measured. Transvaginal Lactobacillus supplementation was investigated in 60 patients with previous failed cycles. Vaginal microecology significantly correlated with pregnancy outcomes, with normal microecology associated with a higher clinical pregnancy rate. Vaginal pH and leukocyte esterase activity were significantly associated with clinical pregnancy. Furthermore, vaginal microecological differences significantly impacted endometrial microbiota composition. However, no significant differences were observed in endometrial microbiota composition among the CP, MISC, and NP groups. Notably, transvaginal Lactobacillus supplementation increased the clinical pregnancy rate without affecting the miscarriage rate. This study highlights that normal vaginal microecology, characterized by lower pH and leukocyte esterase negativity, is associated with a higher likelihood of clinical pregnancy following FET. Importantly, vaginal microecological differences influence endometrial microbiota composition. Moreover, transvaginal Lactobacillus supplementation appears promising in improving clinical pregnancy rates in patients with previous failed cycles. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the interplay between vaginal and endometrial microbiota and offer potential interventions to enhance reproductive success in assisted reproductive technologies.

Effect of transvaginal Lactobacillus supplementation on reversing lower genital tract dysbiosis and improving perinatal outcomes in PCOS patients after IVF-FET: a study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial

BackgroundSignificant lower genital tract (LGT) dysbiosis and an associated lower rate of clinical pregnancy after in vitro fertilization–frozen embryo transfer (IVF-FET) among polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients have been previously reported by our group. We aimed to assess whether transvaginal Lactobacillus supplementation can reverse LGT dysbiosis and further improve perinatal outcomes in PCOS patients after IVF-FET.Methods/designThis is a protocol for a multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled trial in China. Women diagnosed with PCOS who are undergoing IVF-FET treatment will be recruited. Allocation to the intervention/control arms at a ratio of 1:1 will be executed by an electronic randomization system. Participants in the intervention arm will receive the live Lactobacillus capsule vaginally for 10 consecutive days before embryo transfer, while those in the control arm will receive standard individualized care. The primary outcomes will be the clinical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, and live birth rate. 16S rRNA sequencing and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry will be conducted to evaluate the LGT microbiome and systemic metabonomics before and after the intervention. A sample of 260 participants will provide 95% power to detect a 20% increase in the rate of clinical pregnancy (α = 0.025, one-tailed test, 15% dropout rate). A total of 300 participants will be recruited.DiscussionThis is the first large and multicenter randomized controlled trial aimed at assessing the efficacy of transvaginal Lactobacillus supplementation on restoring the LGT microbiome and improving perinatal outcomes in PCOS patients after IVF-FET. This pragmatic trial is promising for increasing the rates of clinical pregnancy and live birth in PCOS patients after IVF-FET.Ethics and disseminationEthical review approval was obtained from the Medical Research Ethics Committees of the International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University (15 October 2020, GKLW 2020-29). To maximize dissemination, these findings will be reported in open access publications in journals with high impact, and oral and poster conference presentations will be performed.Trial registrationChiCTR ChiCTR2000036460. Registered on 13 September 2020, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=59549.

Surgery-induced gut microbial dysbiosis promotes cognitive impairment via regulation of intestinal function and the metabolite palmitic amide

BackgroundPerioperative neurocognitive disorders (PND) are the most common postoperative complications with few therapeutic options. Gut microbial dysbiosis is associated with neurological diseases; however, the mechanisms by which the microbiota regulates postoperative gastrointestinal and cognitive function are incompletely understood.MethodsBehavioral testing, MiSeq 16S rRNA gene sequencing, non-target metabolism, intestinal permeability detection, protein assays, and immunofluorescence staining were employed to discern the impacts of surgery on microbial profiles, intestinal barriers, serum metabolism, and the brain. Interventions in mice included fecal microbiota transplantation, the anti-inflammatory agent dexamethasone, Lactobacillus supplementation, indole propionic acid supplementation, and palmitic amide administration.ResultsSurgery-induced cognitive impairment occurs predominantly in aged mice, and surgery-induced alterations in the microbiota composition profile exacerbate intestinal barrier disruption in aged mice. These adverse effects can be mitigated by transferring microbiota from young donors or by bolstering the intestinal barrier function using dexamethasone, Lactobacillus, or indole propionic acid. Moreover, microbiota composition profiles can be restored by transplanting feces from young mice to aged surgical mice, improving neuropathology and cognitive function, and these effects coincide with increased intestinal permeability. Metabolomic screening identified alterations in metabolites in mouse serum after surgery, especially the increase in palmitic amide. Palmitic amide levels in serum and brain can be decreased by transplanting feces from young mice to aged surgical mice. Oral palmitic amide exacerbates cognitive impairment and neuropathological changes in mice.ConclusionsGut microbial dysbiosis in mice after surgery is a key mechanism leading to cognition dysfunction, which disrupts the intestinal barrier and metabolic abnormalities, resulting in neuroinflammation and dendritic spine loss. Intestinal barrier damage and high level of palmitic amide in old mice may be the cause of high incidence of PND in the elderly. Preoperative microbiota regulation and intestinal barrier restoration may be of therapeutic benefit in preventing PND.9Ey9teFKZKXmrKtD72aS7bVideo

In ovo feeding of probiotic lactobacilli differentially alters expression of genes involved in the development and immunological maturation of bursa of Fabricius in pre-hatched chicks

Compelling evidence indicates that immunological maturation of the gut-associated lymphoid tissues, including the bursa of Fabricius, is dependent upon antigenic stimulation post-hatch. In view of these data, the present study investigated the impact of exposing the immune system of chick embryos to antigenic stimuli, via in ovo delivery of poultry-specific lactobacilli, on the expression of genes associated with early bursal development and maturation. Broiler line embryonated eggs were inoculated with 106 and 107 colony-forming units (CFUs) of an individual or a mixture of Lactobacillus species, including L. crispatus (C25), L. animalis (P38), L. acidophilus (P42), and L. reuteri (P43), at embryonic day 18 (ED18). The bursa of Fabricius was collected from pre-hatched chicks (ED20) to measure the expression levels of various immune system genes. The results revealed that L. acidophilus and the mixture of Lactobacillus species at the dose of 106 CFU consistently elicited higher expression of genes responsible for B cell development, differentiation, and survival (B cell activating factor (BAFF), BAFF-receptor (BAFF-R)), and antibody production (interleukin (IL)-10) and diversification (TGF-β). Similar expression patterns were also noted in T helper (Th) cell-associated cytokine genes, including Th1-type cytokines (interferon (IFN)-γ and IL-12p40), Th2-type cytokines (IL-4 and IL-13) and Th17 cytokine (IL-17). Overall, these results suggest that the supplementation of poultry-specific lactobacilli to chick embryos might be beneficial for accelerating the development and immunological maturation of the bursa of Fabricius. However, further studies are required to determine if the changes in gene expression are associated with the developmental trajectory and phenotypes of bursal cells.

Gut Lactobacillus contribute to the progression of breast cancer by affecting the anti-tumor activities of immune cells in the TME of tumor-bearing mice

Studies have proven that gut microbiota dysbiosis may influence the carcinogenesis and outcomes of multiple cancers. However, it is still unclear whether gut microbiota dysbiosis affect the progression of breast cancer, especially triple-negative breast cancer. In the present study, by using gut microbiota dysbiosis murine model established by treatment of mice with streptomycin, we found Lactobacillus and the metabolite-lactic acid are the pivotal factors for 4T1 tumor progression. In fact, streptomycin-treated mice exhibited slower tumor growth, in parallel with less abundance of Lactobacillus in the gut. Supplementation with Lactobacillus resulted in a rapid tumor growth, following a decrease in the expression of mRNAs for anti-tumor-related factors but an increase in the M2 polarization. The elevated percentages of IFN-γ-producing CD4+T cells and CD8+T cells in the tumor microenvironment of streptomycin-treated tumor-bearing mice may be vanished by supplementation of Lactobacillus. It seems likely that lactobacillus-mediated pro-tumor effect is related to the production of lactic acid. A decrease in the levels of lactic acid in the cecal feces and tumor tissues were observed in streptomycin-treated tumor bearing mice. However, supplementation of Lactobacillus can restore streptomycin-reduced concentration of lactic acid in the tumor tissues, suggesting that gut Lactobacillus are the source of lactic acid. Bioinformatics analysis result suggests high concentration of lactic acid in tumor sites may be related to the diminished anti-tumor immunity in the TME. This study reveals a correlation between gut Lactobacillus and tumor progression in a murine 4T1 tumor model, providing experimental evidence for clinical treatment of breast cancer.

Resistant effects determination of Lactobacillus supplementation on broilers to consecutive hydrogen sulfide exposure

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is one of the most irritant gases present in rearing stalls that suppress broilers' healthy growth, which is seriously required an effective alleviation method. In this study, Lactobacillus was supplemented to investigate the alleviative effects on broilers reared under consecutive H2S exposure. A total of 180 healthy 1-day-old male AA broilers with similar body weight (40.8 ± 1.0 g) were randomly allotted into the control treatment (CON), the hydrogen sulfide treatment (H2S), and the Lactobacillus supplement under H2S exposure treatment (LAC) for a 42-d-long feeding process. Growth and carcass performances, immunity-related parameters, intestinal development and cecal microbial communities, and blood metabolites were measured. Results showed that Lactobacillus supplement significantly increased the body weight gain (BWG) while reduced the mortality rate, abdominal fat and bursa of fabricius weight during the whole rearing time compared with H2S treatment (P < 0.05). Serum LPS, IL-1β, IL-2, and IL-6 contents were observed significantly increased after H2S treatment while remarkably decreased after Lactobacillus supplementation(P < 0.05). Intestinal morphology results showed a significant higher in the development of ileum villus height (P < 0.05). Cecal microbiota results showed the bacterial composition was significantly altered after Lactobacillus supplement (P < 0.05). Specifically, Lactobacillus supplement significantly decreased the relative abundance of Faecalibacterium, while significantly proliferated the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Clostridium, and Campylobacter (P<0.05). Metabolic results indicated that Lactobacillus supplement may alleviate the harmful effects caused by H2S through regulating the pyrimidine metabolism, starch and sucrose metabolism, fructose and mannose degradation, and beta-alanine metabolism. In summary, Lactobacillus supplement effectively increased BWG and decreased mortality rate of broilers under H2S exposure by enhancing the body's immune capacity, proliferating beneficial microbes (e.g., Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium), and regulating the physiological pyrimidine metabolism, starch and sucrose metabolism, and beta-alanine metabolism.

Assessment of Probiotics (Lactobacillus) Supplementation in the Management of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Background Studies suggest that the bidirectional relationship existent between the gut microbiome (GM) and the central nervous system (CNS), or so-called the microbiome–gut–brain axis (MGBA), is involved in diverse neuropsychiatric diseases in children and adults. Aim and objectives The aim of the study was to assess the effect of probiotics supplementation as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) cases. Subjects and methods This was a randomized controlled study included 80 patients with ADHD diagnosed according to DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for ADHD with age ranging from 6 to 16 years old who are following up at the Child Psychiatry Clinics of both Children`s Hospital and Psychiatry Institute Faculty of medicine, Ain-Shams University, All patients randomly distributed into two equal groups, Group1:ADHD cases received probotic in addtion to atomoxetine and Group2: ADHD cases received atomoxetine without probiotic, all cases subjected to Conner’s Parent Rating Scales-Revised (CRS-R) and The Continuous Performance Test (CPT) before and after intervention. Results In group 1, there was significant decrease in mean differences between before and after intervention as regards Oppositional, inattentive, Hyperactive/impulsive and total scores after intervention in comparison with before intervention (p &amp;lt; 0.001). In group 2, the mean differences between before and after showed non-significant differences regarding Oppositional, inattentive and Hyperactive/impulsive scores (p &amp;gt; 0.05). There was statistically significant elevation (improvement) in the mean Correct trials, Correct targets, Correct foils, Target Accuracy Rate and foil Accuracy Rate scores of CPT among the group 1 compared with the group 2 (p &amp;lt; 0.05). On the other hand, group 1 had significant lower (improvement) scores of Commission errors, Omission errors, Correct Real Time Standard Deviation, Error real time mean Score and Error Real Time SD compared to group 2 (p &amp;lt; 0.05). In group 2, the mean differences between before and after showed non-significant differences regarding all sub items of CPT (p &amp;gt; 0.05). Conclusion Results of This study suggests that Probiotic supplementation could be beneficial as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of ADHD cases.. This is a relatively new area of research and the number of included studies is limited.

Probiotic and intra-nasal oxytocin combination therapy on autonomic function and gut-brain axis signaling in young children and teens with autism spectrum disorder

Autonomic dysfunction has been widely studied in individuals with autism spectral disorder (ASD); however, the autonomic response to probiotic and oxytocin (OT) combination intervention has not yet been explored. We conducted the present study that includes 35 individuals with ASD aged 3–20 years to explore autonomic responses to daily Lactobacillus plantarum probiotic supplementation and OT nasal spray treatment both alone and in combination. We identified significant improvements in autonomic indices from subjects receiving combination treatment relative to those receiving placebo. Parameters that were observed to improve following combination treatment are time domain metrics of heart rate variability (HRV), including the root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats (RMSSD), standard deviation of normal-to-normal R–R intervals (SDNN), and proportion of the number of pairs of adjacent NN intervals that differ by more than 50ms (pNN50, p < 0.05). Furthermore, individuals that received either probiotics or OT alone demonstrated fewer changes in RMSSD, pNN50, and SDNN. Several parameters that demonstrated significant improvements in combination therapy were found to be correlated with baseline levels of OT (LF power: r = −0.86, p = 0.024; mean HR: r = 0.89, p = 0.012). Additionally, Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) raw total scores (mean HR, r = 0.86, p = 0.024) and Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) raw total scores (mean HR r = 0.94, p = 0.017) were correlated with mean heart rate (HR) and HRV-derived parameters. These results provide further evidence of synergy of probiotic and OT combination and help us gain a better understanding of the role of the gut-brain axis in ASD phenotypes and pathogenesis.

Pregnancy outcomes after vaginal probiotic supplementation before frozen embryo transfer: a randomized controlled study

In women receiving assisted reproductive treatment, intrauterine lactobacilli dominance has been associated with higher rates of pregnancy achievement. This randomized controlled trial conducted in the fertility clinic of the university hospital from 7 August 2019 to May 2021, aimed to compare the clinical outcome of embryo transfer in frozen-thaw cycles with Lactobacillus supplementation prior to embryo transfer and the standard treatment. A total of 340 infertile women underwent randomization. The biochemical and clinical pregnancy rates were comparable between the groups (39.9 and 34.2% in the study group vs. 41.8 and 31.7% in the control group); however, the miscarriage rate was significantly decreased in the study group (9.5 vs. 19.1%, respectively, p = 0.02), [OR = 0.44, 95% CI (0.23, 0.86)]. Among 49 women diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis, the live birth rate in the study group was higher than the control group (42.31 vs. 26.09%, p = 0.23), [OR = 2.08, 95% CI (0.62, 6.99)]. In the blastocyst transfer group (n = 206), the live birth rate was significantly higher in the study group than in the control group (35.71 vs. 22.22%, p = 0.03) [OR = 1.9, 95% CI (1.05, 3.59)]. Therefore, intravaginal lactobacilli supplementation before embryo transfer in the frozen-thaw cycle did not improve the biochemical and clinical pregnancy rate in the general population but significantly reduced the miscarriage rate.Trial Registration: TCTR20190429001 (29/04/2019) @ www.thaiclinicaltrials.org.

Ampicillin exacerbates acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury by inducing intestinal microbiota imbalance and butyrate reduction.

Antibiotics (ATBx) and acetaminophen (APAP) are widely used worldwide. APAP is the most common cause of acute liver injury (ALI) and might be used in combination with ATBx in clinics. However, the impact of ATBx on APAP-induced ALI has rarely been studied. First, we compared the effects of seven ATBx on APAP-induced ALI. Then, we analysed faecal, serum and liver samples to investigate the impact of the gut microbiota on this process. Finally, we assessed the role of short-chain fatty acids in this process. In this work, we found that the ALI was significantly aggravated in the mice treated with ampicillin (Amp) instead of other ATBx. Amp exposure reduced the diversity and altered the composition of gut microbiota. The altered gut microbiota aggravated APAP-induced ALF, which was proven by faecal microbiota transplantation from ATBx-treated mice. Metagenomic analysis showed a significantly decreased Lactobacillus abundance in Amp-treated mice. Gavage with Lactobacillus, especially Lactobacillus rhamnosus, significantly reversed the severer ALF induced by APAP and Amp. Moreover, Lactobacillus supplementation increased butyrate-producing clostridia and lowered butyrate levels in Amp-treated mice. In accordance, butyrate supplementation could also alleviate Amp-aggravated ALI. In addition, inhibition of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 counteracted the protective effect of butyrate on aggravated ALI induced by Amp and APAP. Together, this study revealed a potential health impact of Amp that may exacerbate liver damage when co-exposed to excess APAP.

Maternal Origins of Neonatal Infections: What Do Obstetrician–Gynecologist Should/Could Do?

Neonatal infections are responsible for 20% of neonatal deaths yearly. In this review, we focused on the origins of the commoner neonatal infections, and we define the role of obstetricians. Regarding group B Streptococcus, a key measure for the prevention of neonatal infection is the vaginal-rectal culture screening at term pregnancy. Intravenous penicillin is the first-line prophylaxis at the start of labor, with intravenous ampicillin as an alternative. First-generation cephalosporins or clindamycin are recommended in case of penicillin allergy. Concerning urinary tract infections (UTIs), guidelines recommend complete urinalysis and urine culture in the first trimester of pregnancy for the screening of asymptomatic bacteriuria. For lower UTIs, guidelines recommend nitrofurantoin as first-choice antibiotic. Amoxicillin or cefalexin are second-line antibiotics. For upper UTIs, guidelines recommend cephalexin per os as first line. Candida spp. colonization affects 20% of pregnant women; however, congenital fetal candidosis and Candida amnionitis are rare. First-line treatment in case of symptomatic vaginitis during pregnancy or asymptomatic colonization during the third trimester is vaginal clotrimazole. Fluconazole is not approved in pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Genital mycoplasmas colonization during pregnancy is usually asymptomatic and associated with bacterial vaginosis. Colonization is related to neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), pneumonia, chorioamnionitis, and sepsis. Macrolides are the first-line treatment along with lactobacillus supplementation. In cases of preterm premature rupture of membranes or preterm labor, ceftriaxone, clarithromycin, and metronidazole are required to prevent intra-amniotic infection. Intra-amniotic infection affects 1 to 5% of deliveries at term and one-third of preterm ones and is associated with perinatal death, early-onset neonatal sepsis, RDS, BPD, pneumonia, meningitis, and prematurity-related diseases. Guidelines recommend a combination of ampicillin and gentamicin, and in case of caesarean section, an additional dose of clindamycin or metronidazole is required. In conclusion, obstetricians should be aware that the treatment of maternal infection during pregnancy can prevent potentially lethal infections in the newborn. KEY POINTS: · Part of neonatal infections starts from maternal infections that must be treated during pregnancy.. · Streptococcus group B and asymptomatic bacteriuria should be investigated in pregnancy and treated.. · Mycoplasma and ureaplasma vaginal colonization during pregnancy is related to negative neonatal outcomes..

Screening bile salt hydrolase activity of Lactobacillus isolated from Vietnamese human origins

Hypercholesterolemia is a major cause of cholesterol build-up in the coronary arteries, which can subsequently lead to heart disease or atherosclerosis. Cholesterol levels can be lowered by cholesterol-lowering drugs but some of these drugs may have harmful side effects, while supplementation of Lactobacillus has shown the potential to reduce serum cholesterol levels by virtue of bile salt hydrolase (bsh) activity. In this study, Lactobacillus plantarum VFE-04, L. rhamnosus VFE-08, and L. plantarum VFE-14, had been isolated from Vietnamese healthy adults, were able to deconjugate glycodeoxycholate (GDC) on MRS plates and MRS broth supplemented with GDC. In addition, deconjugating activity of L. plantarum VFE-04, L. rhamnosus VFE-08, and L. plantarum VFE-14 were also found in cell-free extract as expressed by amount of glycine that released in the supernatant. Four bsh genes including bsh1, bsh2, bsh3, and bsh4 have been identified by PCR in these strains. In addition, L. plantarum VFE-04, L. rhamnosus VFE-08, and L. plantarum VFE-14 also showed high ability to resist bile salts and low pH. The results of 16S rRNA gene analyses showed that L. plantarum VFE-04, L. rhamnosus VFE-08, and L. plantarum VFE-14 and had high similarity scores with L. plantarum ZZU 23 (100%), L. rhamnosus JCM 1136 (99%) and L. plantarum S7 (98.65%), respectively. This study suggests that L. plantarum VFE-04, L. rhamnosus VFE-08, and L. plantarum VFE-14 have the potential to be explored as probiotics in the management of hypercholesterolaemia in near future.

The therapeutic and preventive effects of a canine-origin VB12 -producing Lactobacillus on DSS-induced colitis in mice.

Vitamin B12 (VB12 ) plays vital roles as a cofactor in reactions related to biosynthesis and metabolic regulation. Animals with diarrhoea from intestinal inflammation are susceptible to VB12 deficiency due to dysfunctional absorption. No current medications for canine intestinal inflammation can simultaneously act as VB12 supplements. Here we have tested a strain of VB12 -producing Lactobacillus, to investigate its safety in healthy dogs and test for hypothesized therapeutic and preventive effects on murine colitis. Results from enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, histopathological analysis, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction showed normal physical conditions of healthy dogs given Lactobacillus, and blood biochemical indices showed no significant differences in markers, indicating safety of Lactobacillus to healthy dogs. The microbiota in animals receiving VB12 -producing Lactobacillus probiotic exhibited decreased abundance of Escherichia coli and concomitant increase in Lactobacillus. The probiotic supplement also resulted in downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines in murine colon tissues, reduced myeloperoxidase activity and malondialdehyde level, and significantly increased serum VB12 level and decreased homocysteine in therapeutic and preventive experiments. Moreover, Lactobacillus supplement decreased colonic inflammation and injury, improved gut microbiota, and ameliorated VB12 deficiency as an adjunctive therapy. We conclude this product is potentially beneficial for efficient therapy and prevention of VB12 deficiency form intestinal inflammation in canine clinical practice.

Gut Bifidobacteria enrichment following oral Lactobacillus-supplementation is associated with clinical improvements in children with cystic fibrosis

BackgroundRelationships between gut microbiomes and airway immunity have been established in murine and human studies of allergy and asthma. Early life Lactobacillus supplementation alters the composition and metabolic productivity of the gut microbiome. However, little is known of how Lactobacillus supplementation impacts the gut microbiota in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) and whether specific microbiota states that arise following gut microbiome manipulation relate to pulmonary outcomes.MethodsStool samples were collected from CF patients enrolled in a multi-center, double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial of daily Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain GG (LGG) probiotic supplementation over a 12-month period. Fecal 16S rRNA biomarker sequencing was used to profile fecal bacterial microbiota and analyses were performed in QiiME.ResultsBifidobacteria-dominated fecal microbiota were more likely to arise in LGG-treated children with CF (P = 0.04). Children with Bifidobacteria-dominated gut microbiota had a reduced rate of pulmonary exacerbations (IRR = 0.55; 95% CI 0.25 to 0.82; P = 0.01), improved pulmonary function (+ 20.00% of predicted value FEV1; 95% CI 8.05 to 31.92; P = 0.001), lower intestinal inflammation (Calprotectin; Coef = − 16.53 μg g−1 feces; 95% CI − 26.80 to − 6.26; P = 0.002) and required fewer antibiotics (IRR = 0.43; 95% CI 0.22 to 0.69; P = 0.04) compared to children with Bacteroides-dominated microbiota who were less likely to have received LGG.ConclusionsThe majority of pediatric CF patients in this study possessed a Bacteroides- or Bifidobacteria-dominated gut microbiota. Bifidobacteria-dominated gut microbiota were more likely to be associated with LGG-supplementation and with better clinical outcomes.

The Changes in Microbiotic Composition of Different Intestinal Tracts and the Effects of Supplemented Lactobacillus During the Formation of Goose Fatty Liver.

Intestinal bacteria play an important role in the formation of fatty liver in animals by participating in the digestion and degradation of nutrients, producing various metabolites, and altering the barrier effect of the intestine. However, changes in the gut microbiota during the formation of goose fatty liver are unclear. In this study, 80 healthy Landes geese with similar body weights at 70 days of age were randomly divided into two groups: the control group (n = 48; fed ad libitum) and the overfeeding group (n = 32; overfed). The intestinal contents were collected at 0, 12, and 24 days of overfeeding. The 16S rRNA and metagenomic sequencing analyses showed that the dominant phyla were Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria. At the genus level, Phyllobacterium, Bacteroides, Helicobacter, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, and Romboutsia were the dominant genera in the goose intestine, and most of them were probiotics. In the control group, the relative abundance of Firmicutes in the jejunum and ileum gradually decreased with time, while that of Proteobacteria increased, whereas in the overfeeding group, the relative abundance of Firmicutes in the jejunum and ileum decreased and then increased with time, while that of Proteobacteria showed an opposite trend. In addition, supplementing Lactobacillus to the diet reduced body weight and fatty liver weight in overfed geese, but increased the weight of abdominal fat, suggesting that Lactobacillus supplementation might affect the transport of nascent fat from the liver to abdominal fat. In conclusion, the species of intestinal-dominant bacteria in the geese are relatively stable, but their relative abundance and function are affected by a number of factors. Overfeeding promotes the metabolism of nutrients in the jejunum and ileum and increases bacterial adaptability to environmental changes by enhancing their ability to process environmental and genetic information more efficiently. These findings suggest that the effect of overfeeding on the composition of intestinal microbiota may indirectly influence the formation of goose fatty liver through the gut/liver axis.

Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 Alleviates the Inflammatory Response in Asthma by Regulating TLR2/TLR4 Expression.

BackgroundAsthma is a chronic disease, which is harmful to the health of the body and the quality of life. Supplementation of Lactobacillus can affect the immune environment of the lungs through the gut-lung axis. This study aimed to explore the potential regulatory targets of Lactobacillus to relieve inflammation in asthma and determine a new approach for improving asthma.MethodsA mouse ovalbumin (OVA)-induced model was constructed. OVA mice were supplemented with Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 by gavage. The gut microbiota composition of normal and OVA mice was analyzed using 16S ribosomal DNA identification. BALF, serum, lung tissues, and duodenal tissues were collected. Wright’s staining was performed to determine the cell content of the alveolar lavage fluid. Hematoxylin-eosin staining, Masson staining, and periodic acid-Schiff staining were performed to observe the improvement in the lungs of OVA mice supplemented with Lactobacillus. Immunofluorescence was performed to measure the severity of the intestinal barrier leakage. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was carried out to determine the expression levels of inflammatory cell factors, while quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were performed to detect the levels of toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2)/TLR4 expression and cell adhesion factors.ResultsCompared with Control mice, OVA mice exhibited malignant conditions, such as intestinal leakage and lung edema. After supplementation with Lactobacillus, the inflammatory cell content in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid decreased, and the inflammatory response was alleviated. The level of TLR2/TLR4 expression was reduced. The inflammatory cell infiltration in the airway mucosa of OVA mice was improved, alveolar swelling was reduced and the basement membrane appeared thinner.ConclusionThe Lactobacillus inhibited the TLR2/TLR4 expression in OVA mice. Supplementation with Lactobacillus can alleviate the inflammatory response in OVA mice, inhibit pulmonary fibrosis, and treat asthma.

Lactobacillus Ameliorates SD-Induced Stress Responses and Gut Dysbiosis by Increasing the Absorption of Gut-Derived GABA in Rhesus Monkeys

Sleep deprivation (SD) has become a health problem in the modern society. Although probiotics supplementation has been proven to improve SD-induced gut dysbiosis, the potential neuroendocrine mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, thirty rhesus monkeys (RMs) were recruited. Paradoxical sleep, bright light, and noise were used to build an RM SD model. We examined the plasma γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), stress hormones, and inflammatory cytokines using ELISAs. 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics sequencing were employed to detect gut microbial community and metabolites, respectively. The results of our study showed that RMs subjected to SD had elevated plasma stress hormones (such as cortisol and norepinephrine) and proinflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8), and a decreased anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL-10 level. Additionally, SD could give rise to a significant change in gut microbiota and metabolites. The differential gut microbiota and metabolites caused by SD were enriched in the signaling pathways related to GABA metabolism. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that there is a significant correlation between plasma GABA and SD-induced stress responses and gut dysbiosis. The supplementation of GABA-producing probiotics could significantly increase the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and plasma GABA levels, and reverse SD‐induced stress responses and gut dysbiosis. Therefore, we speculated that SD-induced stress response and gut dysbiosis might be an outcome of reduced gut-derived GABA absorption. The supplementation of GABA-producing Lactobacillus might be beneficial for the treatment of SD-induced intestinal dysfunction.

Effects of Lactobacillus supplementation on glycemic and lipid indices in overweight or obese adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Recent evidence suggests that gut microbiota may represent an important factor to affect the development of obesity and obesity-related diseases. Although several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have explored the ability of Lactobacillus to improve metabolic parameters in adults who are overweight or obese, their findings have been inconsistent and require further analysis. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the ability of Lactobacillus supplementation to improve glycemic control, the lipid profile, and blood pressure in adults who are overweight or obese. Seven electronic databases and two trial registers were searched up to April 2022 to identify eligible RCTs evaluating the effects of Lactobacillus supplementation in overweight or obese adults. Mean differences (MDs) or standardized mean differences were pooled using a random-effects model. Nine eligible RCTs with 598 participants were included. We found that Lactobacillus supplementation significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (MD-5.27mg/dL; 95% confidence interval [CI]-8.28,-2.25; P=0.0006) and total cholesterol (MD-4.84mg/dL; 95% CI-8.29,-1.39; P=0.006), particularly when taken in capsule, powder, or tablet form, for 12 weeks, as ≥1×1010 colony forming units/day, or as part of a normal diet. Benefits of Lactobacillus on fasting plasma glucose were seen after 12 weeks of supplementation (MD-1.81mg/dL; 95% CI-3.08,-0.54; P=0.005) and on triglycerides when taking a normal diet (MD-14.14mg/dL; 95% CI-24.38,-3.91; P=0.007). Lactobacillus had only a short-term beneficial effect on fasting plasma insulin and blood pressure and no significant beneficial effect on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Lactobacillus supplementation has a beneficial effect on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol in adults who are overweight or obese, and also on fasting plasma glucose and triglycerides under certain conditions. Therefore, Lactobacillus supplementation represents a promising approach in the management of obesity-related diseases.