Probiotic Group Research Articles

Effect of Probiotics on Improving Intestinal Mucosal Permeability and Inflammation after Surgery.

We explored the mechanisms underlying the improvement of postoperative ileus (POI) following probiotic pretreatment. We assessed intestinal permeability, inflammation, tight junction (TJ) protein expression in the gut epithelium, and plasma interleukin (IL)-17 levels in a guinea pig model of POI. Guinea pigs were divided into control, POI, and probiotic groups. The POI and probiotic groups underwent surgery, but the probiotic group received probiotics before the procedure. The ileum and proximal colon were harvested. Intestinal permeability was measured via horseradish peroxidase permeability. Inflammation was evaluated via leukocyte count in the intestinal wall muscle layer, and calprotectin expression in each intestinal wall layer was analyzed immunohistochemically. TJ proteins were analyzed using immunohistochemical staining, and plasma IL-17 levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The POI group exhibited increased intestinal permeability and inflammation, whereas probiotic pretreatment reduced the extent of these POI-induced changes. Probiotics restored the expression of TJ proteins occludin and zonula occludens-1 in the proximal colon, which were increased in the POI group. Calprotectin expression significantly increased in the muscle layer of the POI group and was downregulated in the probiotic group; however, no distinct differences were observed between the mucosal and submucosal layers. Plasma IL-17 levels did not significantly differ among the groups. Probiotic pretreatment may relieve POI by reducing intestinal permeability and inflammation and TJ protein expression in the gut epithelium. These findings suggest a potential therapeutic approach for POI management.

Effect of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus IDCC 3201 on irritable bowel syndrome with constipation: a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial

Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract, negatively impacting patients’ quality of life. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effects of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus IDCC 3201 (RH 3201) on irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). In this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, a total of 30 subjects with IBS-C were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive 8 weeks of probiotics administration or placebo. Concerning bowel activities, both irritant bowel movements and discomfort caused by constipation showed significant improvement with RH 3201 at 8 weeks. Symptoms including severity of abdominal bloating, frequency of abdominal bloating, and satisfaction of bowel habits based on the irritable bowel syndrome-severity scoring system also ameliorated in the probiotic group. Analysis of the fecal microbiome revealed that the abundance of Bacteroides cellulosilyticus and Akkermansia muciniphila was higher during the period of RH 3201 administration compared to the placebo. Untargeted metabolome analysis further suggested a correlation between specific metabolites, such as N-acetylornithine, xanthine, and 3-phenylpropionic acid, and the improvement of clinical symptoms. These results indicate that RH 3201 was effective in ameliorating IBS-C, potentially by enriching beneficial microbes and associated metabolites in the gut environment.

Maternal oral probiotic use is associated with decreased breastmilk inflammatory markers, infant fecal microbiome variation, and altered recognition memory responses in infants-a pilot observational study.

Early life gut microbiomes are important for brain and immune system development in animal models. Probiotic use has been proposed as a strategy to promote health via modulation of microbiomes. In this observational study, we explore if early life exposure to probiotics via the mother during pregnancy and lactation, is associated with decreased inflammation in breastmilk, maternal and infant microbiome variation, and altered infant neurodevelopmental features. Exclusively breastfeeding mother-infant dyads were recruited as part of the "Mothers and Infants Linked for Healthy Growth (MILk) Study." Probiotic comparison groups were defined by exposure to maternal probiotics (NO/YES) and by timing of probiotic exposure (prenatal, postnatal, total). C-reactive protein (CRP) and IL-6 levels were determined in breastmilk by immunoassays, and microbiomes were characterized from 1-month milk and from 1- and 6-month infant feces by 16S rDNA sequencing. Infant brain function was profiled via electroencephalogram (EEG); we assessed recognition memory using event-related potential (ERP) responses to familiar and novel auditory (1 month) and visual (6 months) stimuli. Statistical comparisons of study outcomes between probiotic groups were performed using permutational analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) (microbiome) and linear models (all other study outcomes), including relevant covariables as indicated. We observed associations between probiotic exposure and lower breastmilk CRP and IL-6 levels, and infant gut microbiome variation at 1- and 6-months of age (including higher abundances of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus). In addition, maternal probiotic exposure was associated with differences in infant ERP features at 6-months of age. Specifically, infants who were exposed to postnatal maternal probiotics (between the 1- and 6-month study visits) via breastfeeding/breastmilk, had larger differential responses between familiar and novel visual stimuli with respect to the late slow wave component of the EEG, which may indicate greater memory updating potential. The milk of mothers of this subgroup of infants had lower IL-6 levels and infants had different 6-month fecal microbiomes as compared to those in the "NO" maternal probiotics group. These results support continued research into "Microbiota-Gut-Brain" connections during early life and the role of pre- and postnatal probiotics in mothers to promote healthy microbiome-associated outcomes in infants.

Potential benefit of Lactobacillus acidophilus supplementation to rats fed with a high-fat diet on serum lipid profile, kidney amyloid protein and tumor necrosis factor-alpha level

AimIt was aimed to determine the potential effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus supplementation on rats exposed to an experimental high-fat diet on serum lipid profile and kidney total beta amyloid protein (TBAP) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels. Methods24 male Sprague-Dawley rats were used in the study to establish 4 groups. Standard rat food (SD) was provided to Group 1 as the control; Group 2 was fed a high-fat diet (HFD); Group 3 consumed SD and received L. acidophilus probiotics; Group 4 was fed HFD and received L. acidophilus probiotics. Body weights were determined weekly during the 12-week trial period. At the end of the experiment, TBP and TNF-α levels in the serum and kidney tissue of the rats were measured by ELISA method. Serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), HDL, LDL, urea and creatinine levels and paraoxanase, amylase and lipase activities were determined by spectrophotometric method on the analyzer device. ResultsWhen the control (Group 1) group and Group 2 were compared at the end of the experiment, it was found that Group 2 had gained the most weight and that both the blood and kidney tissue levels of TNF-α and TBAP, as well as the quantities of TG, TK, LDL, and urea, were significantly greater (P<0.05). Serum HDL, PON and amylase levels were found to be significantly low (P>0.05). TG, TK, LDL, urea, and the levels of TNF-α and TBAP in serum and renal tissue were shown to be lower in the groups who received L. acidophilus probiotics (Groups 3, 4) when compared to Group 2 (P>0.05). It was observed that HDL, PON and amylase levels increased and approached the control group (P<0.05). ConclusionThe study's findings showed that probiotic supplementation improved blood levels of TG, TC, HDL, LDL, urea, PON, and amylase as well as serum and kidney tissue levels of TNF-α and TBAP in obese rats fed a high-fat diet.

Effect of probiotics on glycemic control and lipid profiles in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, double blind, controlled trial.

This double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized (1:1) clinical trial was conducted at the West China Hospital, Sichuan University, from March to September 2017. Eligible participants included adults aged 18 years and older, living in the community, diagnosed with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus according to ADA guidelines, capable of self-managing their diabetes, and able to visit the study site for follow-up. The intervention group received 25 ml of a probiotic beverage containing with over 10^8 CFU/mL of Lactobacillus, administered four times daily. An equal volume of inactivated Lactobacillus was administered to the control group and the control group was administered the same volume of inactivated Lactobacillus. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of probiotics on glycemic control and other diabetes-related outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes patients. The primary outcomes were changes in HbA1c and FBG levels post-intervention. Investigators, participants, and study site personnel were blinded to the treatment allocation until the conclusion of the study. This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR-POR-17010850). Of the 490 participants screened, 213 were randomized to either the probiotics group (n = 103) or the placebo group (n = 110). After 16 weeks of follow-up, the probiotic group showed reductions in HbA1c [-0.44 (-0.66 to -0.22)] and FBG [-0.97 (-1.49 to 0.46)] post-intervention, similar to the placebo group with reductions in HbA1c [-0.33 (-0.52 to -0.15)] and FBG [-0.90 (-1.32 to -0.47)], but these changes were not statistically significant in PP and ITT analyses (P>0.05). Adverse events were similarly distributed among groups, indicating comparable safety profiles. Overall, 16-week probiotic supplementation showed no beneficial effects on glycemic control, lipid profiles, or weight. https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=18421, identifier ChiCTR-POR-17010850.

PSVI-26 The benefits of probiotics (L. plantarum and L. acidophilus) supplement in growth performance, egg production, gas emission and gut microbiome diversity in Hy-Line brown laying hens

Abstract During the past few decades, antibiotics have been widely used at subtherapeutic doses to improve growth rates and performance in the poultry industry. However, antibiotics can result in side effects including bacterial resistance; these side effects often have detrimental consequences for human health. Thus, the poultry sector was urged to seek alternative strategies to promote animal performance. One environmentally friendly approach to growth promotion involves the use of probiotics, which have been used in the poultry industry for decades. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with Lactobacillus spp. (L. plantarum and L. acidophilus) on growth performance, egg production, gas emission and gut microbiota diversity in laying hens. A total of 192 Hy-Line brown laying hens were randomly divided into four groups and assigned to one of four dietary treatments for 12 wk. The test treatments were basal diet (TRT1), basal + 0.25% antibiotic (TRT2), and basal + 0.1% probiotics (TRT3), and basal + 0.2% probiotics (TRT4). Laying hens fed a diet supplemented with 0.2% probiotics showed increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) egg production in wk 9, 10, and 12. Moreover, fecal ammonia and hydrogen sulfide emissions were reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in the probiotic groups. Microbiome analysis showed increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) species richness in the probiotic groups, as indicated by Chao1 and Shannon indices, but a decrease (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in species diversity according to the Simpson index, suggesting a specific microbial community development due to probiotic supplementation. In conclusion, this study provides us with an insight into the potential use Lactobacillus spp. probiotic as a food supplement in the laying hen industry also provides us with a better understanding of the interplay between Lactobacillus spp. and the gut microbiome diversity in laying hens.

Bifidobacterium regulates premature infant gut metabolites, reducing serum inflammatory factors: a randomised controlled trial.

Analyse the effects of Bifidobacterium BB-12 on intestinal metabolites and serum inflammatory factors in premature infants. 71 premature infants at gestational age of ≤32 weeks were randomly divided into the probiotic (n = 36) and control (n = 35) groups. Faecal and blood samples were collected from the two groups of premature infants at the 2nd and 4th week of life for intestinal metabolite detection and assessment of the level of the serum inflammatory markers TLR4, NF- κ B, IL-1β, and TNF- α. Compared to the control group, the probiotic group contained more amino acids, these elements were enriched on multiple amino acid metabolic pathways, and the probiotic group showed significantly lower levels of the serum inflammatory markers TLR4, NF-κB, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Finally, the probiotic group showed a lower incidence of feeding intolerance. The administration of Bifidobacterium BB-12 is associated with increasing the levels of glutamine, glutamic acid, and kynurenine in the gut of premature infants, and associated with reducing the levels of TLR4 and NF-κB in the serum, further decreasing the secretion of the pro-inflammatory factors IL-1β and TNF-α, and alleviating systemic inflammatory reactions, thereby reducing the incidence of feeding intolerance. 1. The use of Bifidobacterium BB-12 in premature infants can increase the levels of amino acids in the intestine. 2. Increases in Bifidobacterium BB-12 may decrease the serum levels of TLR4, NF-κB, IL-1β, and TNF-α. 3. Kynurenine may improve the prognosis of preterm infants by reducing inflammation. 4. Bifidobacterium BB-12 may improve the feeding tolerance of premature infants, thus reducing the incidence of feeding intolerance.

33 Beyond bacteria: Impact of live yeast as a probiotic on the intestinal health of dogs

Abstract Inactivated yeast and yeast-based products are commonly used in pet food to improve palatability, contribute to dietary protein content, and improve gastrointestinal functionality. However, the use of viable yeast Saccharomyces as a probiotic may contribute to additional beneficial effects on dogs and cats. Considering that, in this presentation, we will focus on the use of viable yeast as a probiotic for dogs. A study conducted at the Federal University of Parana, Brazil, observed that Beagle dogs supplemented with a probiotic yeast presented reduced fecal concentrations of total biogenic amines, ammonia, and aromatic compounds and greater fecal concentrations of butyrate. The supplemented dogs also presented an improvement in dysbiosis index, a greater abundance of Bifidobacterium and Turicibacter, and a reduced abundance of Escherichia coli in feces. In addition, control group dogs presented upregulation in microbial genes related to virulence factors (such as lipopolysaccharide export system), antibiotic resistance, and osmotic stress, compared with the probiotic group. These results may indicate a possible protective effect of the yeast probiotic against potential pathogenic bacteria in the gut. The mechanisms by which yeast probiotics may contribute to gastrointestinal functionality in dogs and cats are not fully elucidated. However, they are usually attributed to the stimulation of brush edge disaccharidases; competition for adhesion sites against potential pathogens; stimulation of nonspecific immunity; neutralization of toxins; and direct effect against potentially pathogenic microorganisms. Many of these mechanisms are influenced directly by yeast cell wall components, such as mannans and beta-glucans. One of the main mechanisms of action of mannans is the elimination of bacteria with pathogenic potential that present type-1 fimbriae, such as some strains of E. coli and Salmonella, preventing their adhesion and colonization to the host mucosa. This may also contribute to the establishment of beneficial bacteria in the gut. We can conclude that viable yeast Saccharomyces as a probiotic may have promising beneficial effects on intestinal functionality of dogs.

The Effect of Probiotics on Obesity with Comorbid Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Aims/Background Obesity and depression frequently co-occur, and the relationship between them is bidirectional. Being obese or overweight increases the risk of depression, and conversely, depression increases the risk of obesity or overweight. Emerging clinical research has shown that probiotics may be effective in treating obesity and associated depression. Modulating gut microbiota with probiotics may improve obesity-related depression, but current evidence is inconsistent. Methods We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials examining probiotics for depression in obese adults. Mean difference (MD) in depression scores between probiotic and placebo groups was pooled across studies using random-effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 to explain heterogeneity in meta-regression analysis. To detect the publication bias of the included studies, a funnel plot, and Begg and Egger tests, were used. Possible heterogeneity moderators were detected by subgroup and sensitivity analyses, Galbraith plot, and graphic display of study heterogeneity (GOSH) analysis. Leave-one-out and Influence analyses were performed to assess sensitivity. Results Five trials (n = 488) were included. Overall, probiotics did not significantly improve depressive symptoms versus placebo (MD = 0.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.63 to 0.79, p = 0.82). Considerable heterogeneity among studies was observed (I2 = 63%). In subgroup analyses, probiotics significantly reduced depression as measured by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (MD = -0.60, 95% CI = -1.17 to -0.03, p = 0.04) with no heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). Probiotics also decreased depressive symptoms after 12 weeks of supplementation (MD = -0.78, 95% CI = -1.58 to -0.01, p = 0.05) versus placebo. No publication bias was found using Begg and Egger tests. The GOSH diagnostics revealed three outliers, among the clusters identified by K-means, DBSCAN (Density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise algorithm), and GMM (Gaussian Mixture Model) analyses. Conclusion Overall, probiotics did not improve depressive symptoms in obesity. However, beneficial effects were observed with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and short-term use of probiotic. Additional rigorous randomized controlled trials are warranted to elucidate the therapeutic potential of probiotics for obesity-related depression.

Probiotics vs. Placebo: Preventing Necrotizing Enterocolitis in a Premature Infant.

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe gastrointestinal condition primarily affecting preterm newborns, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. This prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of probiotics in preventing NEC in premature infants. Secondary objectives included assessing the impact on mortality, late-onset sepsis, duration of hospital stay, and weight gain. The study was conducted at Lady Reading Hospital Medical Teaching Institute, Peshawar, from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, involving 102 preterm infants. Participants were randomly assigned to receive daily oral probiotics (Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species) or a placebo. The incidence of NEC was significantly lower in the probiotic group (7.8%) compared to the placebo group (21.6%; p = 0.04). The probiotic group also showed significant reductions in late-onset sepsis (13.7% vs. 29.4%; p = 0.03), shorter hospital stays (42.5 vs. 48.1 days; p = 0.02), and greater weight gain (15.3 vs. 13.4 grams/day; p = 0.01). These findings support the integration of probiotics into neonatal care, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Probiotics effects on the growth performance and meat quality of broiler chickens

Context In the limited field of research on Kazakhstan’s poultry, this study explores a new area by investigating the lack of studies on the impact of probiotics from camel milk and mare’s milk. This study provides valuable knowledge about an important aspect of poultry production in the region. Aims The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of probiotics isolated from traditional fermented dairy products, fermented camel milk (shubat) and fermented mare’s milk (koumiss) on the growth performance and meat quality of broiler chickens. Methods In total, 240 1-day-old Ross 308 chicks were randomly separated into four treatment groups of three replicates (20 birds per replicate). Three experimental groups were fed by basal diet plus drinking water containing 0.25 mL, 0.5 mL, and 1.0 mL of probiotics per bird (Pro1, Pro2, and Pro3 respectively). The control group was fed by basal diet plus drinking water. The carcass characteristics included the weights of the body and carcass rate. Organoleptic analysis, proximate composition, pH, drip loss, cook loss and were used to determine meat-quality properties. Key results According to the study results isolated probiotics Lacticaseibacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei SH1, Enterococcus faecalis SH6, and Kazachstania unispora Y 2.2 had a significant effect on body and carcass weight (P &lt; 0.05). Average daily gain and feed conversion ratio were also improved in probiotics groups (P &lt; 0.05). Additionally, Pro 2 group had increased meat protein contents (P &lt; 0.05). No significant differences in organoleptic quality between the control and experimental groups fed with the probiotics were determined. Conclusions Traditional fermented dairy products could become a source of new effective probiotics useful to improve broiler production. Implications The readily available shubat and koumiss in Kazakhstan present a promising opportunity for establishing localised probiotic production for poultry, indicating a viable path for promoting sustainable and tailored approaches to poultry farming in the region.

Impact of Lactocaseibacillus (Lactobacillus) paracasei sup. paracasei TISTR 2593 Probiotic Supplementation on the Gut Microbiome of Hypercholesterolemia Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Probiotics have shown potential in managing hypercholesterolemia and related metabolic conditions. This study evaluated the effects of Lactocaseibacillus (Lactobacillus) paracasei sup. paracasei TISTR 2593 on the gut microbiome and metabolic health in patients with hypercholesterolemia, and was registered in the Thai Clinical Trial Registry (TCTR 20220917002). In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 22 hypercholesterolemic participants received either the probiotic or a placebo daily for 90 days. Fecal samples collected before and after the intervention revealed significant microbiome changes, including a decrease in Subdoligranulum, linked to rheumatoid arthritis, and an increase in Flavonifractor, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the probiotic group exhibited a significant reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. These findings suggest that L. paracasei TISTR 2593 can modulate the gut microbiome and improve metabolic health, warranting further investigation into its mechanisms and long-term benefits.

Metagenomic analysis of rats with diarrhea treated with mixed probiotics: response to consecutive and alternate-hour supplementation.

Diarrhea is the leading contributory factor of sickness and mortality among children under five and an economic burden for families. This study aimed to investigate the effects of mixed probiotics supplementation at different times (consecutive and alternate-hour) on intestinal microecology in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats with acute diarrhea. A total of 40 SD rats were randomly assigned to four groups, including the control group, model group, probiotic group A, and probiotic group B. An acute diarrhea model was induced by administration of 5% dextran sulfate sodium. Rats in probiotic group A and probiotic group B were fed with Clostridium butyricum (C. butyricum), Bifidobacterium infantis (B. infantis), and Saccharomyces boulardii (S. boulardii) for a total of 7 days. Probiotic group A was fed with all probiotics simultaneously. Probiotic group B was fed with C. butyricum and B. infantis simultaneously, and then after a 2-hour interval, with S. boulardii. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing was used to analyze the fecal samples from every rat. The metagenomic sequencing used in this experiment was used to evaluate the effect of probiotics on the composition as well as function of the gut microbiota in order to gain a deeper comprehension of probiotic-host interactions on health and disease. The structure of the gut microbiota in probiotic group A showed significant changes. Compared to the model group, the abundance of some beneficial bacteria had increased, including Actinobacteria (P=0.048), Lactobacillus (P=0.050), and Lactobacillus johnsonii (P=0.042), and many opportunistic pathogenic bacteria has decreased, such as Ruminococcus (P=0.001). Compared to the control group, the abundance of some beneficial bacteria had increased, including Fusobacteria (P=0.02) and Phascolarium (P=0.002), and there was a reduction in the abundance of many opportunistic pathogenic bacteria such as Roseburia (P=0.03), Lachnoclosterium (P=0.009), and Oscillibacter_sp_1-3 (P=0.002). In addition, metagenomic analysis showed that as well as an up-regulation of glycoside hydrolase expression, amino acid and inorganic ion transport, and metabolism-related pathways, there was a down-regulation of cell motility. Simultaneous administration of probiotics may have more positive implications in improving the gut microbiota of acute diarrhea rats.

Probiotics, tetracycline fibres and chlorhexidine gel's effectiveness in treating chronic periodontitis as a supplement to scaling and root planning.

A periodontal pocket can result into progressive loss of attachment. Many agents are tried to improve periodontal health. Hence this research was done to estimate the effectiveness of Tetracycline fibers; Probiotics and Chlorhexidine gel as a conjunction to scaling and root planning (SRP) in the treatment of chronic periodontitis. In all, 60 patients between the ages of 25 and 35 who had generalized chronic periodontitis and had a probing pocket depth (PPD) of at least 5 mm were enrolled for this study. Four groups of 15 patients each were created from the patients: Group 1: Tetracycline fibres after SRP, Group 2: Chlorhexidine gel, Group 3: Probiotic mouthwash and Group 4: Rinse with regular saline. At baseline, oral prophylaxis was administered to all groups. Gingival index (GI), Plaque index (PI), and probing depth (PD), among other clinical indicators, were evaluated at baseline, two weeks, and four weeks, respectively. All clinical findings, along withPlaque index (PI), Gingival index (GI), and Probing depth at various time intervals, decreased statistically significantly. Tetracycline fibres, Chlorhexidine gel, and probiotic mouthwash are all similarly effective for treating chronic periodontitis, but they are all more effective than SRP alone, according to an intergroup comparison. When it comes to SRP, local medication delivery methods are beneficial in treating periodontitis.

Effects of Compound Probiotics on Pharmacokinetics of Cytochrome 450 Probe Drugs in Rats.

Compound probiotics have been widely used and commonly coadministered with other drugs for treating various chronic illnesses, yet their effects on drug pharmacokinetics remain underexplored. This study elucidated the impact of VSL#3 on the metabolism of probe drugs for cytochrome P450 enzymes (P450s), specifically omeprazole, tolbutamide, midazolam, metoprolol, phenacetin, and chlorzoxazone. Male Wistar rats were administered drinking water containing VSL#3 or not for 14 days and then intragastrically administered a P450 probe cocktail; this was done to investigate the host P450's metabolic phenotype. Stool, liver/jejunum, and serum samples were collected for 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing, RNA sequencing, and bile acid profiling. The results indicated significant differences in both α and β diversity of intestinal microbial composition between the probiotic and vehicle groups in rats. In the probiotic group, the bioavailability of omeprazole increased by 269.9%, whereas those of tolbutamide and chlorpropamide decreased by 28.1% and 27.4%, respectively. The liver and jejunum exhibited 1417 and 4004 differentially expressed genes, respectively, between the two groups. In the probiotic group, most of P450 genes were upregulated in the liver but downregulated in the jejunum. The expression of genes encoding metabolic enzymes and drug transporters also changed. The serum-conjugated bile acids in the probiotic group were significantly reduced. Shorter duodenal villi and longer ileal villi were found in the probiotic group. In summary, VSL#3 administration altered the gut microbiota, host drug-processing gene expression, and intestinal structure in rats, which could be reasons for pharmacokinetic changes. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study focused on the effects of the probiotic VSL#3 on the pharmacokinetic profile of cytochrome P450 probe drugs and the expression of host drug metabolism genes. Compared with previous studies, the present study provides a comprehensive explanation for the host drug metabolism profile modified by probiotics, combined here with the bile acid profile and histopathological analysis.

The effect of oral probiotics in the last trimester on the human milk and infant gut microbiotas at six months postpartum: A randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveThe main aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of oral probiotics on the human milk microbiota and determine whether that influenced infant microbiota development. MethodsA total of 27 pregnant women were recruited; 14 were assigned to the probiotic group, and the rest were assigned to the control group. Their infants were likewise assigned to the probiotic group or the control group. Pregnant women in the probiotic group received probiotic supplementation from 32 weeks of gestation until delivery. Human milk samples and infant fecal samples were collected at 6 months after delivery, and 16S rRNA sequencing was used to analyze the composition of the human milk and infant gut microbiota (NCT06241222). ResultsIn the control group, bacterial microbiota were detected in 8 out of 13 milk samples, whereas in the probiotic group, only 6 out of 14 milk samples contained bacterial microbiota. We examined the composition of the human milk and infant gut microbiota in both the control and probiotic groups. Spearman correlation analysis revealed that various genera in human milk were correlated with the infant gut microbiota. The Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) showed that 6 bacteria in the human milk microbiota in the control group were significantly more abundant than those in the probiotic group. Nine bacteria were significantly more abundant in the human milk microbiota in the probiotic group than the control group. According to the LEfSe results, 11 bacteria in the infant gut microbiota in the control group were significantly more abundant than those in the probiotic group. Fourteen bacteria were significantly more abundant in the infant gut microbiota in the probiotic group than in the control group. ConclusionThe infant gut microbiota at 6 months has a complicated relationship with the maternal human milk microbiota. Oral probiotic supplementation can change the composition of the human milk microbiota and the infant gut microbiota.

Randomized Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Effect of Probiotic Intake on Androgenic Alopecia.

This study aimed to assess the impact of a combination of probiotic strains of Lactiplantibacillus on the treatment of androgenic alopecia (AGA). To this end, 136 individuals with AGA (62 men and 74 women) aged 18-65 years were enrolled in a double-blind, parallel-group clinical trial. A total of 115 individuals (57 in the probiotic group and 58 in the placebo group) completed this study within a 16-week intervention period. Capillary density, thickness, and length of hair were analyzed before and after the intervention using FotoFinder Trichoscale Pro. In addition, the gut microbiota was assessed by paired-end sequencing on the Illumina MiSeq platform (2 × 300 bp). At the conclusion of the treatment period, a notable decline (p < 0.05) in the number of telogen hairs was evident in the probiotic group while hair thickness decreased in the placebo group (p < 0.05). However, the remaining variables did not exhibit any statistically significant changes. In the probiotic-treated group, individuals aged less than 37.5 years exhibited a reduction in the number and density of telogen hair (p = 0.0693 and p = 0.0669, respectively) and an increase in hair length (p = 0.0871). Furthermore, a notable decline in the number and density of vellus hair (p < 0.05) was observed, and this was accompanied by no change in the hair thickness. The probiotic-treated group exhibited a significantly higher abundance of Lactobacillus (p-adjusted < 0.05, DEseq2 test) and demonstrated a notable reduction in the number and density of telogen hair, and this was accompanied by an increase in the percentage of anagen hair. The probiotic mixture was well tolerated by the participants, with a treatment adherence rate of 90%. In light of this study's limitations, it can be concluded that a mixture of three strains of Lactiplantibacillus promotes the presence of terminal follicles, preventing their gradual miniaturization, which is a characteristic of AGA.

Effect of probiotic administration to breastfeeding mothers with very low birthweight neonates on some neonatal and maternal outcomes: study protocol for a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

IntroductionPremature birth and very low birth weight (VLBW) are leading causes of neonatal mortality. Almost all premature infants experience hyperbilirubinaemia. Administering probiotics to breastfeeding mothers may positively affect infant outcomes....

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IS-10506 Supplementation Improves Clinical Outcome and Immunology Markers in Psoriasis Vulgaris Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND: Probiotics may modify the gut microbiome and have been proven to improve psoriasis vulgaris. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IS-10506 is a probiotic strain of Indonesian origin. It offers a safe and effective probiotic for psoriasis patients in Indonesia. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of L. plantarum IS-10506 on clinical and immunology markers in psoriasis vulgaris.METHODS: This randomized, placebo-controlled, and double-blind trial compared L. plantarum IS-10506 (2×1010 CFU/day) and placebo in 49 patients mild-moderate psoriasis vulgaris, which were divided into intervention (n=24) and control groups (n=25). The interventions were given twice daily for 12 weeks. Both groups received topical corticosteroid and emollient as standard treatment. Psoriasis area and severity index (PASI), dermatology life quality index (DLQI), interleukin (IL)-10, IL-17, and forkhead box protein (Foxp3) were then assessed.RESULTS: Mean PASI score for the the subjects in probiotic group was significantly reduced compared to placebo at week-6 (p=0.024), and was sustained until week-12 (p=0.049). At week-12, DLQI scores in the probiotic group were lower than placebo (7.57±5.77 vs. 7.79±5.48). IL-17 level was significantly decreased (p=0.013), while the IL-10 and Foxp3 were significantly increased (p≤0.001 and p=0.048, respectively) in probiotic group. Six months after the completion of study, subjects in probiotic group had a lower probability of flares (52.2%) compared to placebo (79.2%). Two subjects receiving probiotics and one receiving placebo noticed changes in defecation frequency, while another subject in the placebo group complained of mild nausea.CONCLUSION: L. plantarum IS-10506 might effectively improve clinical outcomes and immune biomarkers in psoriasis vulgaris patients, potentially acting as an adjuvant therapy.KEYWORDS: psoriasis, probiotic, clinical severity, immune marker, human and health

Identification of immune-associated genes with altered expression in the spleen of mice enriched with probiotic Lactobacillus species using rna-seq profiling.

Probiotics are living microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed. Here, we investigated the effects of probiotics on gene expression in the spleen of mice using RNA-sequencing analysis between negative control and probiotic groups (including 4 Lactobacillus strains: Lactobacillus fermentum, L. casei, L. plantarum, and L. brevis). Mice exposed with probiotic in 4 weeks by intragastric administration. Then, spleen tissues of the control and probiotics groups were collected on days 14 and 28 for RNA sequencing. In total, 665, 186, and 81 DEGs were significantly expressed on day 14 vs. control, day 28 vs. control groups, and probiotics day 28 vs. day 14 groups, respectively. On the other hand, 12 Toll-like receptor (TLR) genes underwent additional validation through qRT-PCR, affirming the increased alignment between qRT-PCR and RNA-Seq findings. In addition, the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses revealed that the DEGs were predominantly enriched in defense responses to pathogens, including inflammatory bowel diseases, malaria, leukaemia virus 1, and herpes virus, as well as immune processes related to immune response and signal transduction. This study represents the first investigation into mice's gene expression in the spleen exposed to probiotics using Lactobacillus spp. isolated from a field strain in Vietnam. Our results provide valuable insights into the impacts and functions of probiotics on mammalian development, offering crucial information for the potential therapeutic use of probiotics in defending against pathogens in Vietnam. The findings from this study highlight the potential of probiotics in modulating gene expression in the spleen, which may have implications for immune function and overall health in mice.