Butyric Research Articles

Inclusion of slowly digestible starch source is a promising strategy than reducing starch to protein ratio in low protein broiler diets

The present study investigated the effects of low protein diets with different starch sources and starch to protein ratio on growth, digestibility, intestinal health, caecal short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), serum cholesterol and triglycerides in broiler chickens. Eight hundred one-day-old male broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly allotted to one of 4 dietary treatments with 10 repeats and 20 birds in each repeat. The dietary treatment included 1) a standard protein corn-SBM based diet (SP), 2) a low protein corn-SBM based diet (LPI) without reduced starch: protein ratio, 3) a low protein corn-SBM based diet (LPII) with reduced starch: protein ratio, and 4) a low protein corn-SBM-peas based diet (LPP) and reduced starch: protein ratio. Soy hulls were added in the LPII and LPP diets to reduce starch: protein ratio. During the experiment period from 11-24 d, FI was not affected by the dietary treatments (P > 0.05). The BWG was significantly reduced in the LPI diet compared to the SP diet (P < 0.05). Likewise, FCR deteriorated in LPI and LPII but was better in the SP diet followed by the LPP diet (P < 0.05). The apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter (DM) varied significantly among the dietary treatments (P < 0.01). While ATTD of starch was similar for all the diets except the LPP diet wherein the ATTD of starch was significantly lower (P < 0.001). Ether extract digestibility was also significantly different between the SP and LPII dietary treatments (P < 0.01). The AME and AMEn values were also significantly lower in the LPP diet compared with other dietary treatments (P < 0.001). Nitrogen retention (%) was increased in all the LP diets compared with the SP diet (P < 0.001), but it was significantly better in both LPII and LPP diets compared to the LPI diet. The data showed that cecal short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production was increased in the LPII and LPP compared to the SP and LPI diets (P < 0.001). Further, the production of acetic, butyric, and propionic acids was substantially higher in the LPP diet (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in gene expression of Claudin-1 and ZO-1 (P > 0.05). However, MUC-2 and GLUT-1 gene expression were significantly downregulated in the LPI diet (P < 0.05). The concentration of cholesterol and triglycerides was significantly increased in the LPI diet (P < 0.001). In conclusion, the addition of peas as a slowly digestible starch source combined with soy hulls in low protein diet helped to partly recover the growth performance and improved cecal SCFAs production compared to other low protein diets with and without reduced starch: protein ratio in broiler chickens.

Resilience towards organic load and activated sludge variations in co-fermentation for carboxylic acid production

Two perturbations were investigated in acidogenic co-fermentation of waste activated sludge (WAS) and food waste in continuous mesophilic fermenters: increasing the organic loading rate (OLR) and changing the WAS. A control reactor maintained an OLR of 11 gVS/(L·d), while a test reactor had a prolonged OLR change to 18 gVS/(L·d). For each OLR, two WAS were studied. The change in OLR led to differentiated fermentation product profile without compromising the fermentation yields (∼300 mgCOD/gVS). At 11 gVS/(L·d), the product profile was dominated by acetic, butyric, and propionic acids while at 18 gVS/(L·d) it shifted to acetic acid, ethanol, and caproic acid. Reverting the OLR also reverted the fermentation profile. The biomass immigration with the WAS changed the fermentation microbial structure and introduced acetic acid-consuming methanogens, which growth was only delayed by the OLR increase. Microbial monitoring and post-fermentation tests can be used for early detection of acetic acid-consuming events.

Double-blind randomized placebo-controlled supplementation of a standardized Terminalia chebula fruit extract alters the gut microbiome, phageome, and increases short chain fatty acids in High-BMI, borderline diabetic females

Terminalia chebula (TC) is an Ayurvedic herb containing polyphenolic compounds that interact with gut microbiota to modulate bioactivity. To examine how TC supplementation modulates the gut microbiome and associated metabolic pathways, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study that screened 58 and enrolled 43 females aged 25–55 with a BMI of 25–35 kg/m2 and HbA1C between 5.5–7. Subjects were randomized to standardized preparation of TC (250 mg, Synastol® TC) capsules or oral placebo twice daily for 8 weeks. Stool sample collections and venipuncture were performed. Α-diversity of the gut microbiome increased in the TC group at week 8 versus placebo (p < 0.05). Akkermansia muciniphila, Alistipes_putredinis, Bacteroides_u_s, Ruminococcaceae_u_s, Waltera_intestinalis, Lachnospira_eligens, Parabacteroides phage YZ-2015b and Uncultured_crAssphage increased at week 8 versus baseline following TC supplementation. Circulating acetic acid (p < 0.05), propionic acid (p < 0.01), and butyric acid (p = 0.12) increased at week 8 in the TC group versus placebo. Chenodeoxycholate and tauro-beta-muricholate increased following TC supplementation (p < 0.05). TC supplementation increases beneficial gut bacteria, phages, and circulating SCFAs, which may modulate bile acid synthesis. Future studies on how TC extract supplementation influences the metabolome in an expanded population are warranted.

In vitro fermentation end-products and rumen microbiome as influenced by microencapsulated phytonutrient pellets (LEDRAGON) supplementation

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of microencapsulated bioactive compounds from lemongrass mixed dragon fruit peel pellet (MiEn-LEDRAGON) supplementation on fermentation characteristics, nutrient degradability, methane production, and the microbial diversity using in vitro gas production technique. The study was carried out using a completely randomized design (CRD) with five levels of MiEn-LEDRAGON supplementation at 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4% of the total dry matter (DM) substrate. Supplementation of MiEn-LEDRAGON in the diet at levels of 3 or 4% DM resulted in increased (p < 0.05) cumulative gas production at 96 hours (h) of incubation time, reaching up to 84.842 ml/ 0.5 g DM. Furthermore, supplementation with 3% MiEn-LEDRAGON resulted in higher in vitro nutrient degradability and ammonia–nitrogen concentration at 24 h of the incubation time when compared to the control group (without supplementation) by 5.401% and 11.268%, respectively (p < 0.05). Additionally, supplementation with MiEn-LEDRAGON in the diet led to an increase in the population of Fibrobacter succinogenes at 24 h and Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens at 12 h, while decreasing the population of Ruminococcus albus, Ruminococcus flavefaciens, and Methanobacteriales (p < 0.05). Moreover, supplementation of MiEn-LEDRAGON in the diet at levels of 2 to 4% DM resulted in a higher total volatile fatty acids (VFA) at 24 h, reaching up to 73.021 mmol/L (p < 0.05). Additionally, there was an increased proportion of propionic acid (C3) and butyric acid (C4) at 12 h (p < 0.05). Simultaneously, there was a decrease in the proportion of acetic acid (C2) and the ratio of acetic acid to propionic acid (C2:C3), along with a reduction of methane (CH4) production by 11.694% when comparing to the 0% and 3% MiEn-LEDRAGON supplementation (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study suggests that supplementing MiEn-LEDRAGON at 3% of total DM substrate could be used as a feed additive rich in phytonutrients for ruminants.

The impact of high‐IgE levels on metabolome and microbiome in experimental allergic enteritis

AbstractBackgroundThe pathological mechanism of the gastrointestinal forms of food allergies is less understood in comparison to other clinical phenotypes, such as asthma and anaphylaxis Importantly, high‐IgE levels are a poor prognostic factor in gastrointestinal allergies.MethodsThis study investigated how high‐IgE levels influence the development of intestinal inflammation and the metabolome in allergic enteritis (AE), using IgE knock‐in (IgEki) mice expressing high levels of IgE. In addition, correlation of the altered metabolome with gut microbiome was analysed.ResultsOvalbumin‐sensitized and egg‐white diet‐fed (OVA/EW) BALB/c WT mice developed moderate AE, whereas OVA/EW IgEki mice induced more aggravated intestinal inflammation with enhanced eosinophil accumulation. Untargeted metabolomics detected the increased levels of N‐tau‐methylhistamine and 2,3‐butanediol, and reduced levels of butyric acid in faeces and/or sera of OVA/EW IgEki mice, which was accompanied with reduced Clostridium and increased Lactobacillus at the genus level. Non‐sensitized and egg‐white diet‐fed (NC/EW) WT mice did not exhibit any signs of AE, whereas NC/EW IgEki mice developed marginal degrees of AE. Compared to NC/EW WT mice, enhanced levels of lysophospholipids, sphinganine and sphingosine were detected in serum and faecal samples of NC/EW IgEki mice. In addition, several associations of altered metabolome with gut microbiome—for example Akkermansia with lysophosphatidylserine—were detected.ConclusionsOur results suggest that high‐IgE levels alter intestinal and systemic levels of endogenous and microbiota‐associated metabolites in experimental AE. This study contributes to deepening the knowledge of molecular mechanisms for the development of AE and provides clues to advance diagnostic and therapeutic strategies of allergic diseases.

Beneficial effects of Dendrobium officinale National Herbal Drink on metabolic immune crosstalk via regulate SCFAs-Th17/Treg

The development of gut-liver axis metabolic immune crosstalk is intimately associated with intestinal barrier disorder, intestinal SCFAs-Th17/Treg immunological imbalance, and disorders of the gut microbiota. Prior research has discovered that Dendrobium officinale National Herbal Drink (NHD), a traditional Chinese medicine drink with enhanced immunity, may enhance the immunological response in animals with impaired immune systems brought on by cyclophosphamide by repairing intestinal barrier function and controlling turbulence in the gut microbiota. However, whether NHD can further improve the gut-liver axis metabolic immune crosstalk and its related mechanisms need to be systematically studied. The purpose of this study is to clarify the function and mechanism of NHD in enhancing the gut-liver axis metabolic immunological crosstalk brought on by excessive alcohol intake. In this work, we set up a mouse model to analyze the metabolic and immunological crosstalk involving the gut-liver axis across 7 weeks of continuous, excessive drinking. At the same time, high and low doses (20,10 ml/kg) of NHD were given by gavage. The effect of NHD on improving the metabolism of gut-liver axis was evaluated by blood lipid, liver lipid deposition, liver function and intestinal pathophysiology. By measuring serum immunological indices, intestinal barrier, and intestinal immune barrier, the impact of NHD on enhancing immune and intestinal barrier function was assessed. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, 16S rRNA, Western blot, q-PCR and other methods were used to detect gut microbiota, SCFAs-GPR41/43 pathway, intestinal Th17/Treg immune cells and PPAR-α-NPC1L1/SREBP1 pathway to elucidate the mechanism by which NHD enhances the gut-liver axis' metabolic immune crosstalk. Our study demonstrated that NHD has the potential to improve the pathophysiological damage caused by gut-liver axis in model mice. NHD also ameliorated the disorder of lipid metabolism. In addition, it regulated the levels of peripheral blood T cell immunity and serum immune factors. And NHD can restore intestinal mechanical and immune barrier damage. NHD has a favorable impact on the quantity of beneficial bacteria, including uncultured_bacterium_g__norank_f__muribaculacea and uncultured_bacterium_g__Turicibacter. Additionally, it raised the model mice's levels of SCFAs (n-butyric acid, isovaleric acid, etc.). This resulted in the promotion of intestinal GPR41/43-ERK1/2 expression and the reshaping of intestinal CD4+T cell Th17/Treg homeostasis. As a consequence, colon IL-22 and IL-10 levels increased, while colon IL-17A levels decreased. Lastly, NHD raised the amount of intestinal IAP/LPS, regulated the development of PPAR-α-NPC1L1/SREBP1 pathway in gut-liver axis, and improve lipid metabolism disorder. Our study found that NHD can improve the gut-liver axis metabolic immune crosstalk in model mice caused by excessive drinking. The mechanism might be connected to how NHD controls gut microbiota disorders in model mice, the activation of intestinal SCFAs-GPR41/43 pathway, the remodeling of Th17/Treg immune homeostasis of intestinal CD4+T cells, the improvement of IAP/LPS abnormality, and further mediating the PPAR-α-NPC1L1/SREBP1 pathway of lipid metabolism in gut-liver axis.

Structural characterization and human gut microbiota fermentation in vitro of a polysaccharide from Fucus vesiculosus

In this study, an acidic polysaccharide (FVP-7 A) was isolated from Fucus vesiculosus by DEAE-Sepharose™ fast flow. The chemical composition, glycosidic bonds and in vitro fecal fermentation characteristics of FVP-7 A were studied. Results shown that FVP-7 A was a homogenous polysaccharide with average molecular weight of 30.94 kDa. Combined with FT-IR, monosaccharide composition, methylation and NMR analysis, the glycosidic bonds of FVP-7 A mainly composed of →4)-β-D-Manp-(1→, →3)-α-L-Fucp-(1→, α-D-Manp-(1→, →3)-β-D-Manp-(1 → and →4,6)-α-D-Manp-(1→. The zeta potential and atomic force microscopy images indicated that FVP-7 A could exist stably as a single chain-like structure in dilute solution. After gut fermentation, FVP-7 A was utilized and promoted multiple short-chain fatty acids production, especially acetic acid, butyric acid and valeric acid. For prebiotics, FVP-7 A significantly increased the relative abundance of short-chain fatty acids producing bacteria such as Bacteroides, Lachnospira, Faecalibacterium, Ruminococcus, Oscillospira and Dialister, and inhiited the growth of the harmful bacteria Shigella. These results indicated that FVP-7 A could be used as a potential dietary supplement to improve intestinal health.

Integrated Microbiome-Metabolomics Analysis Reveals the Potential Mechanism of Dandelion Root Polysaccharides to Ameliorate Ulcerative Colitis.

In the conducted research, a murine model for ulcerative colitis (UC) was established utilizing dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) to investigate the therapeutic potential of dandelion root polysaccharide extracts on this disease. This study employed an analysis of gut microbiota composition and serum metabolomics to understand the biochemical effects of these polysaccharides. Sequencing of the 16S ribosomal DNA component indicated an increased presence of Bacteroides in the DSS-treated model group, contrasting with a significant enhancement in Faecalibaculum populations in mice treated with dandelion root polysaccharides (DPs). This shift suggests a pivotal role of DPs in elevating fecal N-butyric acid levels-a crucial factor in the maintenance of gut microbiota equilibrium. Through metabolomic profiling of serum, this research identified distinct metabolic changes across the control, DSS model, and DP treatment groups, highlighting four major differential metabolites: (2S)-2-amino-3-[[(2R)-2-butanoyloxy-3-propanoyloxypropoxy]-hydroxyphosphoryl]oxypropanoic acid; (1R,8S,9S)-3,4-dihydroxy-8-methoxy-11,11-dimethyl-5-propan-2-yl-16-oxatetracyclo [7.5.2.01,10.02,7]hexadeca-2,4,6-trien-15-one; Aspartylasparagine; and Nap-Phe-OH. These metabolites are implicated in mitigating oxidative stress, suggesting that DPs facilitate a protective mechanism for the intestinal lining through various biochemical pathways. Additionally, a notable correlation was established between the altered gut microbiota and the serum metabolomic profiles, underscoring the intricate interplay between these two biological systems in the context of UC. This study's outcomes illustrate that UC induces significant alterations in both gut microbiota and metabolic signatures, whereas dandelion root polysaccharides exhibit a profound ameliorative effect on these disruptions. This investigation underscores the therapeutic promise of dandelion root polysaccharides in the management of UC by modulating gut microbiota and metabolic pathways.

Comparison of in vivo glycolipid metabolism regulation pathway of lotus leaf polysaccharide and its combination with flavonoids and alkaloids: Effectiveness of high-pressure homogenization-assisted dual enzyme extraction

Lotus leaf is an optimal raw material for the preparation of foods with the function of regulating glycolipid metabolism. However, further investigation is required to elucidate the synergistic regulatory effects of lotus leaf polysaccharide (LLP), flavonoids, and alkaloids, which act as the main active components in lotus leaves. This study optimally prepared LLP and whole functional components (LLE) containing LLP, flavonoids and alkaloids by high-pressure homogenization-assisted dual enzyme extraction with and without pre-/post treatment. LLP and LLE exerted regulatory roles in glycolipid metabolism and alleviated liver, kidney, and pancreas damages of db/db mice. LLP was utilized by gut bacteria, promoting the production of beneficial metabolites i.e. lithodeoxycholic and butyric acids, which reached the liver through blood circulation, activating insulin signaling, and regulating glycolipid metabolism. The combination of polysaccharide, flavonoids and alkaloids promoted the production of butyric acid but different secondary bile acids i.e. deoxycholic and ursodeoxycholic acids, acted in the intestine and liver, and intervened in more metabolic pathways, showing a synergistic effect on glycolipid metabolism. This study provided insights into the rational processing of lotus leaf for hypoglycaemic foods.

Characterization of key volatile flavor compounds in dried sausages by HS-SPME and SAFE, which combined with GC-MS, GC-O and OAV

The flavor of three types dried sausage from Guangdong, Sichuan and Harbin were studied by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and solvent-assisted flavor evaporation (SAFE) combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), sensory evaluation combined with principal component analysis. The results showed that Harbin dried sausage had more prominent spicy flavor attributes, and the varieties and contents of flavor substances were more abundant. Then Harbin dried sausage was selected for further analysis. The flavor dilution factor of 37 aroma components was obtained by gas chromatography-olfactometry-mass spectrometry and aroma extract dilution analysis. 30 compounds were quantitated, and their odor activity values were calculated. The key aroma components were validated by using recombination and omission experiments. The omission experiment of 27 aroma compounds was carried out, and 10 compounds were finally determined as the key aroma active substance. The key aroma components of Harbin dried sausage included hexanoic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, butyric acid, nonanal, acetoin, hydroxyacetone, ethyl hexanoate, eugenol, and p-cresol.

Dietary Supplementation of Compound Probiotics Improves Intestinal Health by Modulated Microbiota and Its SCFA Products as Alternatives to In-Feed Antibiotics.

Enterococcus faecium, Bifidobacterium, and Pediococcus acidilactici, as intestinal probiotics, have been proved to play a positive role in treating intestinal diseases, promoting growth and immune regulation in poultry. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of compound probiotics on growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, intestinal microbiome characteristics, as well as intestinal morphology in broiler chickens. Treatment diets with chlortetracycline and compound probiotics were used for two groups of sixty broilers each throughout the feeding process. Another group was fed the basal diet. The BW (2589.41 ± 13.10g vs 2422.50 ± 19.08g) and ADG (60.57 ± 0.31g vs 56.60 ± 0.45g) of the compound probiotics added feed treatment group were significantly increased, and the FCR was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). The supplementation of a compound probiotics enhanced the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Faecalibacterium, and norank_f_norank_o_Clostridia_vadinBB60_group (P < 0.05), and modulated the cecal microbiota structure, thereby promoting the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and elevating their levels (P < 0.05), particularly propionic and butyric acids. Furthermore, the administration of the compound probiotics supplements significantly enhanced the villi height, V/C ratio, and reduced the crypt depth (P < 0.05). In addition, the activity of digestive enzymes in the duodenum and jejunum was elevated (P < 0.05). Collectively, the selected compound probiotics supplemented in this experiment have demonstrated efficacy, warranting further application in practical production settings as a viable alternative to antibiotics, thereby facilitating efficient production and promoting gastrointestinal health.

Gut microbiota and fecal volatilome profile inspection in metabolically healthy and unhealthy obesity phenotypes.

People with metabolically healthy (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO) differ for the presence or absence of cardio-metabolic complications, respectively. Based on these differences, we are interested in deepening whether these obesity phenotypes could be linked to changes in microbiota and metabolome profiles. In this respect, the overt role of microbiota taxa composition and relative metabolic profiles is not completely understood. At this aim, biochemical and nutritional parameters, fecal microbiota, metabolome and SCFA compositions were inspected in patients with MHO and MUO under a restrictive diet regimen with a daily intake ranging from 800 to 1200kcal. Blood, fecal samples and food questionnaires were collected from healthy controls (HC), and an obese cohort composed of both MHO and MUO patients. Most impacting biochemical/anthropometric variables from an a priori sample stratification were detected by applying a robust statistics approach useful in lowering the background noise. Bacterial taxa and volatile metabolites were assessed by qPCR and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, respectively. A targeted GC-MS analyses on SCFAs was also performed. Instructed to follow a controlled and restricted daily calorie intake, MHO and MUO patients showed differences in metabolic, gut microbial and volatilome signatures. Our data revealed higher quantities of specific pro-inflammatory taxa (i.e., Desulfovibrio and Prevotella genera) and lower quantities of Clostridium coccoides group in MUO subset. Higher abundances in alkane, ketone, aldehyde, and indole VOC classes together with a lower amount of butanoic acid marked the faecal MUO metabolome. Compared to MHO, MUO subset symptom picture is featured by specific differences in gut pro-inflammatory taxa and metabolites that could have a role in the progression to metabolically unhealthy status and developing of obesity-related cardiometabolic diseases. The approach is suitable to better explain the crosstalk existing among dysmetabolism-related inflammation, nutrient intake, lifestyle, and gut dysbiosis.

Correlation between short-chain fatty acids and peri-implant disease: A cross-sectional study.

To explore the correlation between short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the peri-implant sulcular fluid (PISF) and peri-implant diseases. PISF samples were obtained from implants that have been placed for at least 5years, and peri-implant clinical parameters were examined. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography were used to detect SCFAs in PISF. The correlation between SCFAs and clinical parameters was analyzed by Spearman's correlation. SCFAs related to peri-implant disease were identified by logistic regression and ranked by random forest analysis. Eighty-six implants were divided into a peri-implant health group (PIH-group, 35 implants), peri-implant mucositis group (PIM-group, 25 implants), and peri-implantitis group (PI-group, 26 implants) according to clinical and radiographic examination results. The PIM-group had significantly lower formic acid detection rate than the other two groups (p<0.001). The PIM-group had significantly higher levels of acetic, propionic, and isovaleric acids than the PIH-group (p<0.05). The PI-group had significantly higher levels of propionic, butyric, isobutyric, valeric, and isovaleric acids than the PIH-group (p<0.05). The PI-group had significantly higher levels of butyric, isobutyric, and isovaleric acids than the PIM-group (p<0.05). SCFAs (apart from hexanoic and succinic acids) were significantly and positively correlated with clinical parameters (p<0.05). SCFAs related to peri-implant disease were ranked as follows: butyric, isovaleric, isobutyric, propionic, acetic, formic, and lactic acids. Elevated specific SCFAs are correlated with peri-implant disease. Recognition of this correlation may help in early identification of peri-implant disease and guide further clinical interventions.

Encapsulated Butyric Acid and Zinc as a Feed Additive for Lambs Abruptly Transitioned to a Grain-Based Diet.

Butyric acid is attributed to gastrointestinal epithelial development and health and two studies were conducted to determine if supplementing encapsulated butyric acid and zinc (BZ) in lambs abruptly transitioned to a finishing diet has effects on growth performance, efficiency of dietary net energy utilization, rumen morphometrics, small intestinal histology, and carcass traits. Polypay wethers (n = 84; initial shrunk body weight = 38.8 kg ± 4.8 kg) were used in a randomized complete block design study. Wethers were abruptly transitioned from a high roughage-based diet to a 100% concentrate-based diet and dietary treatments were 0 or 2 g BZ/kg of diet dry matter. Study 1 evaluated growth performance and carcass traits of lambs over a 59.5 d feeding period, and Study 2 evaluated changes in rumen morphometrics and small intestine histology in serial harvested lambs. Wethers supplemented with BZ had increased body wall thickness, decreased calculated boneless closely trimmed retail cuts, and decreased red meat yield (p ≤ 0.03) compared to non-supplemented wethers. Linear effects (p ≤ 0.01) for harvest date were observed for most rumen and small intestine measurements. Supplementing wethers with BZ did not improve growth performance, carcass traits, or rumen and small intestine measurements. The effects of BZ supplementation on fat deposition in ruminants should be further investigated.

Utjecaj komercijalnih inokulanata na kemijski sastav i fermentaciju silaže od lucerne

Krmne mahunarke teško se siliraju, pa je potrebno primijeniti starter-kulturu od odabranih sojeva bakterija mliječne kiseline koji podupiru proces siliranja i sprječavaju nepoželjne bakterijske maslačne fermentacije te time doprinose očuvanju i poboljšanju kvalitete silaže. Cilj istraživanja bio je procijeniti učinke komercijalnih inokulanata na kemijski sastav i fermentaciju silaže lucerne kultivara OS99. Masa lucerne podijeljena je u šest jednakih dijelova (kontrola – silaža bez inokulanta) i silaža tretirana komercijalnim inokulantima (PIO1 – Pioneer 11H50, PIO2 – Pioneer 11AFT, SIL – Silko, BON – Bonsilage alfa i SAL – Sil–All4 × 4), sve silirano u mikrosilosima. Nakon 90 dana od siliranja, silaže su analizirane s obzirom na kemijski sastav te fermentacijske parametre. Udio suhe tvari i sirovih proteina bio je veći, a udio mliječne i octene kiseline bio je značajno (p&amp;lt;0,05) veći u silaži tretiranoj inokulantima PIO1, PIO2, SIL, BON i SAL u odnosu na kontrolu. Silaža lucerne tretirana inokulantima PIO1, PIO2, SIL, BON i SAL imala je niži udio kiselih i neutralnih deterdžentskih vlakana, niži pH te značajno (p &amp;lt;0,05) niži udio maslačne kiseline, alkohola i NH3–N u usporedbi s kontrolom. Rezultati istraživanja pokazali su da komercijalni inokulanti PIO1, PIO2, SIL, BON i SAL povećavaju kvalitetu silaže lucerne kultivara OS99 u odnosu na kontrolu.

Microbiome and Metabolite Analysis Insight into the Potential of Shrimp Head Hydrolysate to Alleviate Depression-like Behaviour in Growth-Period Mice Exposed to Chronic Stress.

Chronic stress (CS) endangers the physical and mental health of adolescents. Therefore, alleviating and preventing such negative health impacts are a top priority. This study explores the effect of feeding shrimp head hydrolysate (SHH) on gut microbiota, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and neurotransmitters in growing C57BL/6 mice subjected to chronic unpredictable mild stress. Mice in the model group and three SHH groups were exposed to CS for 44 days, distilled water and SHH doses of 0.18, 0.45, 0.90 g/kg·BW were given respectively by gavage daily for 30 days from the 15th day. The results showed that SHH can significantly reverse depression-like behaviour, amino acids degradation, α diversity and β diversity, proportion of Firmicutes and Bacteroidota, abundance of genera such as Muribaculaceae, Bacteroides, Prevotellaceae_UCG-001, Parabacteroides and Alistipes, concentration of five short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), 5-HT and glutamate induced by CS. Muribaculaceae and butyric acid may be a controlled target. This study highlights the potential and broad application of SHH as an active ingredient in food to combat chronic stress damage.

Improvement effects of Lactobacillus-derived mannose-containing exopolysaccharides on ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a public health concern. The quest for drugs characterized by minimal side effects and optimal safety profiles for managing UC has emerged as a primary research topic. Recent evidence suggests the efficacy of Lactobacillus-derived exopolysaccharides containing mannose (MnEPSs) in alleviating UC. Lactobacillus could not synthesize MnEPSs in the glucose-only MRS medium, but with mannose added to the carbon source, MnEPSs were produced directionally, of which mannose accounts for 5.9–7.8% of the total sugar content. Subsequently, MnEPS-6M3, MnEPS-Q5M22, MnEPS-D4L1, and MnEPS-CCFM 1393 were used to investigate the mechanism of UC relief. The results showed that compared with non-MnEPSs, MnEPSs had the better effect on reliving UC. Phenotypically, four MnEPSs alleviated weight loss, DAI score, crypt disappearance, inflammatory cell infiltration, and mucosal edema of UC in mice. Mechanistically, MnEPSs increased the expression of ZO-1 by 52.38–115.87% to repair intestinal barrier, inhibited inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ and IL-17) and increasd anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10) by reducing colonic F4/80+ macrophages (decreased 4.34–7.01%) and colonic iNOS+ M1 macrophages (decreased 7.3–10.52%), and promoted the production of acetic acid (increased 153.21–226.93%), propionic acid (increased 360.71–528.57%), and butyric acid (increased 127.45–156.86%) in cecal contents. Interestingly, MnEPS-Q5M22 and MnEPS-CCFM 1393 increased the abundance of butyric acid-producing Dunaliella. In summary, this study provides a theoretical basis for the directional synthesis of functional MnEPSs.

Skin protective effects of acid-stress sorghum fermentation by extremophile Monascus pilosus against UV-induced inflammation and photoaging

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes skin damage including oxidative stress, inflammation, and photoaging. Extremophile fermentation products have been found to effectively protect the skin from UV-induced damage. This study aimed to investigate the impact of acid-induced stress on the content of bioactive compounds, as well as the anti-inflammatory and anti-photoaging properties of sorghum fermentation by the extremophilic Monascus pilosus. The study compared acid-stress fermentation (ASF) of sorghum with conventional fermentation (CF) and examined differences in total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and short-chain fatty acid levels. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry assay, the ASF sample had lower total phenolic content compared to CF, but significantly higher levels of short-chain fatty acids. Butyric acid was the predominant metabolite in the ASF sample, followed by propionic acid. The ASF sample exhibited superior protection for UV-irradiated human keratinocytes by inhibiting apoptosis, reducing ROS, and downregulating inflammatory mediators. It also decreased metalloproteinases expression levels, increased collagen and elastin production, and mitigated UV-induced photoaging. The effects of ASF samples were evaluated in volunteers, and the results confirmed the ASF sample’s effectiveness in ameliorating UV-induced skin symptoms, including pigmentation, redness, and wrinkles. These findings conclude that acid-stress enhances the anti-inflammatory and anti-photoaging capabilities of Monascus pilosus fermented sorghum.

Epimedii Folium decoction ameliorates osteoporosis in mice through NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β signalling pathway and gut-bone axis

Aim of the studyThis study aimed to determine the effect of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim. (EF) on osteoporosis (OP) and its underlying molecular mechanisms, and to explore the existence of the “Gut-Bone Axis”. Material and methodsThe impact of EF decoction (EFD) on OP was evaluated using istopathological examination and biochemical assays. Targeted metabolomics was employed to identify key molecules and explore their molecular mechanisms. Alterations in the gut microbiota (GM) were evaluated by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The role of the GM was clarified using an antibiotic cocktail and faecal microbiota transplantation. ResultsEFD significantly increased the weight (14.06%), femur length (4.34%), abdominal fat weight (61.14%), uterine weight (69.86%), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels (59.48%), while reducing serum type I collagen cross-linked carboxy-terminal peptide (CTX-I) levels (15.02%) in osteoporotic mice. The mechanism of action may involve the regulation of the NLRP3/cleaved caspase-1/IL-1β signalling pathway in improving intestinal tight junction proteins and bone metabolism. Additionally, EFD modulated the abundance of related GM communities, such as Lactobacillus, Coriobacteriaceae, bacteria of family S24-7, Clostridiales, and Prevotella, and increased propionate and butyrate levels. Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis of gut bacteria disrupted OP regulation of bone metabolism, which was restored by the recovery of GM. ConclusionsOur study is the first to demonstrate that EFD works in an OP mouse model by utilising GM and butyric acid. Thus, EF shows promise as a potential remedy for OP in the future.

Inhibiting the CB1 receptor in CIH-induced animal model alleviates colon injury

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can lead to intestinal injury, endotoxemia, and disturbance of intestinal flora. Additionally, as a crucial component of the endocannabinoid system, some studies have demonstrated that cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors are closely linked to the multiple organ dysfunction triggered by OSA. However, the role of the CB1 receptor in alleviating OSA-induced colon injury remains unclear. Here, through the construction of the OSA classic model, we found that the colon tissue of chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH)–induced mice exhibited an overexpression of the CB1 receptor. The results of hematoxylin-eosin staining and transmission electron microscopy revealed that inhibition of the CB1 receptor could decrease the gap between the mucosa and muscularis mucosae, alleviate mitochondrial swelling, reduce microvilli shedding, and promote the recovery of tight junctions of CIH-induced mice. Furthermore, CB1 receptor inhibition reduced the levels of metabolic endotoxemia and inflammatory responses, exhibiting significant protective effects on the colon injury caused by CIH. At the molecular level, through western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction techniques, we found that inhibiting the CB1 receptor can significantly increase the expression of ZO-1 and Occludin proteins, which are closely related to the maintenance of intestinal mucosal barrier function. Through 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) determination, we found that inhibition of the CB1 receptor increased the diversity of the microbial flora and controlled the makeup of intestinal flora. Moreover, butyric acid concentration and the amount of SCFA-producing bacteria, such as Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae, were both markedly elevated by CB1 receptor inhibition. The results of the spearman correlation study indicated that Lachnospiraceae showed a positive association with both ZO-1 and Occludin but was negatively correlated with the colon CB1 receptor, IL-1β, and TNF-α. According to this study, we found that inhibiting CB1 receptor can improve CIH-induced colon injury by regulating gut microbiota, reducing mucosal damage and promoting tight junction recovery.Key points•CIH leads to overexpression of CB1 receptor in colon tissue.•CIH causes intestinal flora disorder, intestinal mucosal damage, and disruption of tight junctions.•Inhibition of CB1 receptor can alleviate the colon injury caused by CIH through regulating the gut microbiota, reducing mucosal injury, and promoting tight junction recovery.Graphical abstract