Probiotic Treatment Research Articles

Topical Probiotics Reduce Atopic Dermatitis Severity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trials.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic skin disease that commonly appears during childhood but can present at any age. There are interventions that are effective in treating AD in children, but it has been difficult to find effective treatments for adults. This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to determine the efficacy of topical probiotic treatment for AD in adult populations. A database search was conducted of peer-reviewed, double-blind clinical trials, and studies underwent a systematic exclusion and inclusion process, yielding four that met the criteria. Disease severity, as measured by a standardized scoring tool SCORAD (SCORing Atopic Dermatitis), was culled from each study and compared to placebo at two-week and four-week time points. All studies showed improvement in SCORAD in the treatment groups compared to baseline at all time points. Two showed significant decreases in SCORAD after two weeks of treatment, and three studies showed long-lasting improvement after four weeks of treatment. Interestingly, while each study showed a reduction in the severity of AD at the two- and four-week time points, a pooled meta-analysis did not show a statistically significant difference between treatment and control at four weeks of treatment. Clinically, there may be benefits to topical probiotic usage as evidenced by the individual studies; more studies need to be performed including adults to show statistical significance.

Nutraceuticals and pharmacological to balance the transitional microbiome to extend immunity during COVID-19 and other viral infections

Abstract Scope The underlying medical conditions and gut dysbiosis is known to influence COVID-19 severity in high-risk patients. The current review proposed the optimal usage of nutraceuticals & pharmacological interventions can help regulate the protective immune response and balance the regulatory functionality of gut microbiota. Summary Many studies have revealed that the probiotic interventions viz., Lactobacillus rhamnosus, L. plantarum & other bacterial spp. reduce IFNγ & TNF-α and increase IL-4 & IL-10 secretions to control the immunostimulatory effects in upper respiratory tract infection. Dietary fibres utilized by beneficial microbiota and microbial metabolites can control the NF-kB regulation. Vitamin C halts the propagation of pathogens and vitamin D and A modulate the GM. Selenium and Flavonoids also control the redox regulations. Interferon therapy can antagonize the viral replications, while corticosteroids may reduce the death rates. BCG vaccine reprograms the monocytes to build trained immunity. Bifidobacterium and related microbes were found to increase the vaccine efficacy. Vaccines against COVID-19 and season flu also boost the immunity profile for robust protection. Over all, the collective effects of these therapeutics could help increase the opportunities for faster recovery from infectious diseases. Conclusion The nutraceutical supplements and pharmacological medicines mediate the modulatory functionalities among beneficial microbes of gut, which in turn eliminate pathogens, harmonize the activity of immune cells to secrete essential regulatory molecular receptors and adaptor proteins establishing the homeostasis in the body organs through essential microbiome. Therefore, the implementation of this methodology could control the severity events during clinical sickness and reduce the mortalities.

When less is more for dietary Lactobacillus rhamnosus IMC 501: The complex role gut microbiota play in energy budgets and allostasis of early juvenile Mozambique Tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus)

In aquaculture, exposure to stressors results in heightened neuroendocrine responses, increasing metabolic activities and reducing growth to offset additional stressor-related energetic costs for allostasis. Supplementation with probiotics increases metabolic expenditures from elevated fish digestion and upregulated immune systems, but effects of the probiotics concentrations on energy budgets remains unknown. This study used respirometry to determine the effects of five different probiotic concentrations: T0 control (0 × 1011 CFU/g), T1 (5 × 1011 CFU/g), T2 (10 × 1011 CFU/g), T3 (15 × 1011 CFU/g), and T4 (20 × 1011 CFU/g) of a dietary single-strain probiotic (Lactobacillus rhamnosus IMC 501) on feed consumption, and the proportion of feed intake energy (C) allocated to growth (G), and routine metabolic rates (Rr), in the energy budgets of early juvenile (1-3 g wet weight) Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus), weekly over a 28-day experimental period. Two-factor ANOVA analyses revealed that the amount of feed intake energy (C) increased in probiotic treatments over controls. Allocation of feed energy for growth (G) differed among treatments, but not with time, but for routine metabolic activities (Rr), allocation of feed energy differed among treatments and over time. Increases of somatic tissue (TTW) was highest in the T2 treatment (intermediate concentration), while Rr was highest in the T3 and T4 (highest concentration) treatments, but only after 14–21 days of supplementation. Within energy budgets, the highest proportion of feed energy was allocated to growth in all treatments (G; mean ± SE, 43.0 ± 3.1 %), followed by routine metabolic activities (Rr; mean ± SE, 26.12 ± 2.1 %). Overall, the mean net mass-specific cost of growth (cr) (mgO2l−1 g−1) was highest, and the net growth efficiency (% KN) was lowest, in the T3 and T4 treatments indicating that higher probiotic concentrations were related to higher allostatic loads (AL) compared to lower probiotic treatments (T1, T2). Overall, our results revealed that the proportion of C allocated to G and Rr varied differently with probiotic concentration, was tightly related to gut bacteria metabolic expenditures, and highlighted the importance of carefully evaluating the probiotic concentrations for optimization of growth performance in Mozambique tilapia aquaculture.

Evaluating the coral microbiome during cryopreservation

Coral reefs are threatened by various local and global stressors, including elevated ocean temperatures due to anthropogenic climate change. Coral cryopreservation could help secure the diversity of threatened corals. Recently, isochoric vitrification was used to demonstrate that coral fragments lived to 24 hr post-thaw; however, in this study, they were stressed post-thaw. The microbial portion of the coral holobiont has been shown to affect host fitness and the impact of cryopreservation treatment on coral microbiomes is unknown. Therefore, we examined the coral-associated bacterial communities pre- and post-cryopreservation treatments, with a view towards informing potential future stress reduction strategies. We characterized the microbiome of the Hawaiian finger coral, Porites compressa in the wild and at seven steps during the isochoric vitrification process. We observed significant changes in microbiome composition, including: 1) the natural wild microbiomes of P. compressa were dominated by Endozoicomonadaceae (76.5 % relative abundance) and consistent between samples, independent of collection location across Kāneʻohe Bay; 2) Endozoicomonadaceae were reduced to <6.9 % in captivity, and further reduced to <0.5 % relative abundance after isochoric vitrification; and 3) Vibrionaceae dominated communities post-thaw (58.5–74.7 % abundance). Thus, the capture and cryopreservation processes, are implicated as possible causal agents of dysbiosis characterized by the loss of putatively beneficial symbionts (Endozoicomonadaceae) and overgrowth of potential pathogens (Vibrionaceae). Offsetting these changes with probiotic restoration treatments may alleviate cryopreservation stress and improve post-thaw husbandry.

Effect of probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic supplementation on circadian clock in rats with fructose-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver

BackgroundThe rate of NAFLD in the general population is estimated to be 25.2%. NAFLD is affected by lifestyle, diet, and inflammation. In this study, the use of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics was aimed to modulate the circadian clock in the liver and improve metabolic disorder through the gut–liver axis.MethodsSix-week-old, healthy, 43 Wistar albino rats were included in the study and their average weight was determined as 140.50 g (95.00–177.00) at the beginning of the study. Before the study, the rats were randomly divided into 5 groups, 8 animals were placed in the 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 5th groups and 11 animals were placed in the 2nd group. Rats in group 1 were fed standard food for 13 weeks. Rats in the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th groups were fed with 10% fructose water during the 1-week adaptation period and then 20% fructose water. After the 7th week, probiotic treatment (2 × 109 CFU/ml Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) was administered to rats in group 3rd via gavage for 6 weeks, and prebiotic treatment was administered to rats in group 4th with feed containing 10% grape seed extract. Rats in the 5th group were given a feed consisting of 10% grape seed extract and 2 × 109 CFU/ml Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG via gavage.ResultsIt was determined that the use of prebiotics as a treatment option in fatty liver had a more positive effect on glucose, ALT, melatonin, and ZO-1 values. In addition, it was observed that synbiotic use had more positive effects on histopathological findings, NAS score, and the expression level of circadian clock genes. While there was no significant difference between the mRNA levels of circadian clock genes, it was observed that gene expression levels increased with fructose consumption and decreased especially with synbiotic treatment.ConclusionIt has been observed that fructose modulates the circadian rhythm by affecting some biochemical and genomic pathways as a result of synbiotic use in order to prevent the negative effects of fructose on fatty liver.

Probiotic treatment improves post-traumatic stress disorder outcomes in mice

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental disorder resulting from traumatic events which are characterized primarily by anxiety and depressive disorder. In this study, we determine the role of gut bacteria in PTSD. PTSD-like symptoms were produced by single prolonged stress (SPS). SPS animals showed increased levels of anxiety as measured by the elevated plus maze test, while depressive behaviour was confirmed using sucrose preference, force swim, and tail suspension tests. Gut dysbiosis was confirmed in PTSD animals by next-generation sequencing of 16 s RNA of faecal samples, while these animals also showed increased intestinal permeability and altered intestinal ultrastructure. Probiotic treatment increases beneficial microbiota, improves intestinal health and reduces PTSD-associated anxiety and depression. We also found a decrease in cortical BDNF levels in PTSD animals, which was reversed after probiotic administration. Here, we establish the link between gut dysbiosis and PTSD and show that probiotic treatment may improve the outcome of PTSD like symptoms in mice.

Role of Probiotics and Prebiotics in Human Health: A Review

Probiotics and prebiotics are essential components in maintaining and enhancing human health, primarily through their beneficial effects on gut microbiota. Probiotics, which are live microorganisms, and prebiotics, which are non-digestible food components, work synergistically to improve digestive health, enhance immune function, and support metabolic health. The historical evolution of probiotics and prebiotics has demonstrated their wide-ranging health benefits, from preventing gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to managing metabolic disorders like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Clinical applications highlight their role in reducing antibiotic-associated diarrhea, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and mitigating symptoms of allergies and autoimmune diseases. However, the field faces significant challenges, including the need for standardization and quality control, addressing individual variability in response, and ensuring safety and efficacy. The lack of uniform regulatory oversight further complicates the assurance of product reliability and effectiveness. Despite these challenges, emerging trends and innovations, such as next-generation probiotics and prebiotics, personalized nutrition based on microbiome profiles, and advances in biotechnology and bioinformatics, offer promising solutions. These advancements are poised to enhance the specificity and effectiveness of probiotic and prebiotic interventions. For example, genetically engineered probiotics and novel prebiotics derived from non-traditional sources are being explored for their unique health benefits. Personalized approaches can optimize dietary recommendations and supplement formulations based on individual gut microbiome compositions. Future research directions should focus on mechanistic studies to elucidate the specific pathways through which probiotics and prebiotics exert their effects, conducting robust and diverse clinical trials, and developing new strains and compounds from diverse sources. Regulatory frameworks need to be established to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of these products. By addressing these challenges and leveraging innovative approaches, probiotics and prebiotics can be optimized to provide personalized and effective health solutions, significantly impacting public health. Integrating these functional foods into daily dietary practices holds the potential for a new era of preventive and therapeutic nutrition, enhancing overall health and well-being.

Comparative genome analysis of microbial strains marketed for probiotic interventions: an extension of the Integrated Probiotic Database

Background: Members of the Bifidobacterium genus and lactobacilli are the most commonly used probiotics to promote human health. In this context, genome-based in silico analyses have been demonstrated as a fast and reliable tool for identifying and characterizing health-promoting activities imputed to probiotics. Methods: This study is an extension of the Integrated Probiotic Database (IPDB) previously created on probiotics of the genus Bifidobacterium , facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the genetic characteristics that contribute to the diverse spectrum of beneficial effects of probiotics. The strains integrated into this new version of the IPDB, such as various lactobacilli and strains belonging to the species Streptococcus thermophilus (S. thermophilus ) and Heyndrickxia coagulans (H. coagulans ) (formerly Bacillus coagulans ), were selected based on the labels of probiotic formulations currently on the market and using the bacterial strains whose genome had already been sequenced. On these bacterial strains, comparative genome analyses were performed, mainly focusing on genetic factors that confer structural, functional, and chemical characteristics predicted to be involved in microbe-host and microbe-microbe interactions. Results: Our investigations revealed marked inter- and intra-species variations in the genetic makeup associated with the biosynthesis of external structures and bioactive metabolites putatively associated with microbe- and host-microbe interactions. Conclusion: Although genetic differences need to be confirmed as functional or phenotypic differences before any probiotic intervention, we believe that considering these divergences will aid in improving effective and personalized probiotic-based interventions.

Alteration in gut microbiota after colonoscopy: proposed mechanisms and the role of probiotic interventions.

Colonoscopy, a widely used procedure for diagnosing and treating colonic diseases, induces transient gastrointestinal symptoms and alterations in the gut microbiota. This review comprehensively examines the evidence on alterations in the gut microbiota following colonoscopy and their possible mechanisms. Factors such as rapid colonic evacuation, increased osmolality, and mucus thinning caused by bowel preparation and exposure to oxygen during the procedure contribute to these alterations. Typically, the alterations revert to the baseline within a short time. However, their long-term implications remain unclear, necessitating further investigation. Split-dose bowel preparation and CO2 insufflation during the procedure result in fewer alterations in the gut microbiota. Probiotic administration immediately after colonoscopy shows promise in reducing alterations and gastrointestinal symptoms. However, the widespread use of probiotics remains controversial due to the transient nature of the symptoms and microbiobial alterations in the microbiota. Probiotics may offer greater benefits to individuals with preexisting gastrointestinal symptoms. Thus, probiotic administration may be a viable option for selected patients.

P.048: Probiotic intervention to reduce postoperative inflammation in liver transplantation.

P.048: Probiotic intervention to reduce postoperative inflammation in liver transplantation.

P24-03 Modulation of glucose-lipid metabolism in Type II Diabetes through butyric acid-mediated epigenetic regulation: a probiotic intervention study in mice

P24-03 Modulation of glucose-lipid metabolism in Type II Diabetes through butyric acid-mediated epigenetic regulation: a probiotic intervention study in mice

The Role of Probiotics in Managing Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease: An Updated Review

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has become a very significant health problem worldwide, characterized by hepatic steatosis and systemic metabolic disturbances. Grasping the complex interaction between the intestine and liver, referred to as the gut-liver axis, is crucial to decipher the pathogenesis of MAFLD and identify potential therapeutic targets. Probiotics, which are live microorganisms offering health benefits, have garnered attention for their potential in treating MAFLD. A literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar using "MAFLD," "NAFLD," "probiotics," and "gut microbiota" yielded 642 studies; 32 clinical trials met the inclusion criteria for the final analysis. This review encapsulates the current knowledge of MAFLD pathophysiology, emphasizing the role of the gut-liver axis, and assesses the clinical evidence supporting probiotic treatments for MAFLD. The mechanisms of action of probiotics are explored, including their ability to modulate gut microbiota composition, enhance epithelial barrier function, and influence the immune response. Various randomized controlled trials have shown that probiotics are effective in enhancing several aspects of MAFLD, such as liver enzymes, lipid profiles, body mass index, insulin sensitivity, or even histological efficacy. However, mixed results have been reported in some clinical trials, highlighting the need for further research to optimize probiotic interventions. Future investigations should focus on standardized protocols, personalized approaches and exploring synergistic combinations with other therapeutic modalities to maximize the potential of probiotics in the treatment of MAFLD.

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) behavioral phenotypes are not underscored by different gut microbiomes.

Although bold and shy behavioral phenotypes in zebrafish (Danio rerio) have been selectively bred and maintained over multiple generations, it is unclear if they are underscored by different gut microbiota. Using the microbiota-gut-brain concept, we examined the relationship between gut microbiota and the behavioral phenotypes within this model animal system to assess possible gut microbe-mediated effects on host behavior. To this end, we amplified and sequenced 16S rRNA gene amplicons from the guts of bold and shy zebrafish individuals using the Illumina Miseq platform. We did not record any significant differences in within-group microbial diversity nor between-group community composition of the two behavioral phenotypes. Interestingly, though not statistically different, we determined that the gut microbial community of the bold phenotype was dominated by Burkholderiaceae, Micropepsaceae, and Propionibacteriaceae. In contrast, the shy phenotype was dominated by Beijerinckaceae, Pirelullacaeae, Rhizobiales_Incertis_Sedis, and Rubinishaeraceae. The absence of any significant difference in gut microbiome profiles between the two phenotypes would suggest that in this species, there might exist a stable core gut microbiome, regardless of behavioral phenotypes, and possibly, a limited role for the gut microbiota in modulating this selected-for host behavior. This study characterized the gut microbiomes of distinct innate behavioral phenotypes of the zebrafish (that are not considered dysbiotic states) and did not rely on antibiotic or probiotic treatments to induce changes in behavior. Such studies are crucial to our understanding of the modulating impacts of the gut microbiome on normative animal behavior.

Probiotics-role in alleviating the impact of alcohol liver disease and alcohol deaddiction: a systematic review.

There are few efficient treatment options for alcohol addiction, which continues to be a serious public health concern. The possible contribution of gut microbiota to the onset and progression of alcohol addiction has been brought to light by recent studies. Probiotics have become a cutting-edge intervention in the treatment of alcohol consumption disorder because of its favorable effects on gut health. The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the body of research on the advantages of probiotics in treating alcoholism and associated neuroinflammatory conditions. To find pertinent research published from January 2012 to 2023, a thorough search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and Web of Science, was carried out. Included were studies looking at how probiotics affect neuroinflammation, gut- brain axis regulation, alcohol addiction, and related behaviors. Several investigations have shown how beneficial probiotics are in reducing systemic inflammation and alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Probiotic treatments successfully corrected the imbalance of microbiota, decreased intestinal permeability, and stopped the passage of bacterial constituents such lipopolysaccharides (LPS) into the bloodstream. Additionally, probiotics helped to regulate neurotransmitter pathways, especially those connected to GABA, glutamate, and dopamine, which are intimately linked to behaviors related to addiction. Furthermore, it was shown that probiotics altered the expression of neurotransmitter signaling and dopamine receptors. There is strong evidence from this systematic study that probiotics have potential advantages in treating alcohol addiction. The potential of probiotic therapies is demonstrated by the way they modulate important neurotransmitter pathways implicated in addiction, decrease neuroinflammation, and restore the balance of gut flora. To fully investigate the therapeutic potential of probiotics in treating alcohol addiction and enhancing the general wellbeing of those afflicted by this condition, more research is necessary.

Probiotic therapy modulates the brain-gut-liver microbiota axis in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury

The interplay between gut microbiota and host health is crucial for maintaining the overall health of the body and brain, and it is even more crucial how changes in the bacterial profile can influence the aftermath of traumatic brain injury (TBI). We studied the effects of probiotic treatment after TBI to identify potential changes in hepatic lipid species relevant to brain function. Bioinformatic analysis of the gut microbiota indicated a significant increase in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio in the probiotic-treated TBI group compared to sham and untreated TBI groups. Although strong correlations between gut bacteria and hepatic lipids were found in sham mice, TBI disrupted these links, and probiotic treatment did not fully restore them. Probiotic treatment influenced systemic glucose metabolism, suggesting altered metabolic regulation. Behavioral tests confirmed memory improvement in probiotic-treated TBI mice. While TBI reduced hippocampal mRNA expression of CaMKII and CREB, probiotics reversed these effects yet did not alter BDNF mRNA levels. Elevated pro-inflammatory markers TNF-α and IL1-β in TBI mice were not significantly affected by probiotic treatment, pointing to different mechanisms underlying the probiotic benefits. In summary, our study suggests that TBI induces dysbiosis, alters hepatic lipid profiles, and preemptive administration of Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum probiotics can counter neuroplasticity deficits and memory impairment. Altogether, these findings highlight the potential of probiotics for attenuating TBI's detrimental cognitive and metabolic effects through gut microbiome modulation and hepatic lipidomic alteration, laying the groundwork for probiotics as a potential TBI therapy.

Multispecies probiotic intake during pregnancy modulates neurodevelopmental trajectories of offspring: Aiming towards precision microbial intervention

Recent research highlights the pivotal role of the maternal gut microbiome during pregnancy in shaping offspring neurodevelopment. In this study, we investigated the impact of maternal intake of a multispecies probiotic formulation during a critical prenatal window (from gestational day 6 until birth) on neurodevelopmental trajectories in mice. Our findings demonstrate significant and persistent benefits in emotional behavior, gut microbiota composition, and expression of tight junction-related genes, particularly in male offspring, who exhibited heightened sensitivity to the probiotic intervention compared to females. Additionally, we observed elevated gene expression levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and the oxytocin receptor (Oxtr) in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of exposed juvenile offspring; however, these changes persisted only in the adult male offspring. Furthermore, the sustained increase in the expression of the proton-coupled oligopeptide transporter 1 (PepT1), which is involved in the transport of bacterial peptidoglycan motifs, in the PFC of exposed male offspring suggests a potential mechanistic pathway underlying the observed sex-dependent effects on behavior and gene expression. These results underscore the potential of prenatal multispecies probiotic interventions to promote long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes, with implications for precision microbial reconstitution aimed at promoting healthy neurodevelopment and behavior.

Microbiome and metabolome analyses indicate variations in the gut microbiota that disrupt regulation of appetite.

The mechanism connecting gut microbiota to appetite regulation is not yet fully understood. This study identifies specific microbial community and metabolites that may influence appetite regulation. In the initial phase of the study, mice were administered a broad-spectrum antibiotic cocktail (ABX) for 10 days. The treatment significantly reduced gut microbes and disrupted the metabolism of arginine and tryptophan. Consequently, ABX-treated mice demonstrated a notable reduction in feed consumption. The hypothalamic expression levels of CART and POMC, two key anorexigenic factors, were significantly increased, while orexigenic factors, such as NPY and AGRP, were decreased. Notably, the levels of appetite-suppressing hormone cholecystokinin in the blood were significantly elevated. In the second phase, control mice were maintained, while the ABX-treated mice received saline, probiotics, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) for an additional 10 days to restore their gut microbiota. The microbiota reconstructed by probiotic and SCFA treatments were quite similar, while microbiota of the naturally recovering mice demonstrated greater resemblance to that of the control mice. Notably, the abundance of Akkermansia and Bacteroides genera significantly increased in the reconstructed microbiota. Moreover, microbiota reconstruction corrected the disrupted arginine and tryptophan metabolism and the abnormal peripheral hormone levels caused by ABX treatment. Among the groups, SCFA-treated mice had the highest feed intake and NPY expression. Our findings indicate that gut microbes, especially Akkermansia, regulate arginine and tryptophan metabolism, thereby influencing appetite through the microbe-gut-brain axis.

The probiotic strain Bacillus subtilis CU1 primes antimicrobial innate immune response and reduces low-grade inflammation: a clinical study.

LifeinU™ Bacillus subtilis CU1 (BSCU1) has been previously shown to be effective in stimulating mucosal immune responses and supporting resistance to common infectious disease episodes in the elderly. The current clinical study aimed at exploring potential pathways by which BSCU1 could beneficially modulate the immune system and contribute to protection against infection in the general population. A total of 88 participants from three different age groups were supplemented with BSCU1 (2× 109 cfu/day) for 4 weeks. The effect of the intervention on mucosal immunity was assessed by faecal sIgA levels. In addition, a series of complementary immunoassays were selected, including immune phenotyping, gene expression, basal cytokine levels, cytokine levels in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated whole blood and phagocytosis assay. Although no significant effect was observed on faecal sIgA levels after intervention, BSCU1 showed a positive effect on a consistent set of markers of the peripheral innate immune system in adults and the elderly. Percentages of peripheral blood myeloid cells as well as the expression of the activation marker CD69 on monocytes were significantly increased after probiotic intervention. BSCU1 supplementation resulted in significant enrichment of clusters of genes involved in response to type I interferon and phagocytosis pathway. Consistently, ex vivo stimulation of whole blood with LPS resulted in a statistically significant increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6, interferon-gamma, IL-12, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1alpha, IL-8) and phagocytosis assays showed increased capacity of monocytes to engulf bacteria as well as higher phagosome maturation. BSCU1 supplementation also had a positive effect on low-grade inflammation as significant reduction in basal levels of several serum cytokines (IL-10, TNF-alpha, MIP-1alpha, IL-8) were observed in the elderly subgroup. Overall, BSCU1 primed immune cells for a better response to microbial challenges and reduced low-grade inflammation associated with aging. Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with the identifier NCT05403398.

A relationship between intestinal microbiome and epilepsy: potential treatment options for drug-resistant epilepsy

Background. According to the World Health Organization, about 50 million people worldwide suffer from epilepsy. Almost 1/3 of patients are diagnosed with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). A relationship between intestinal microbiome (IM) and the central nervous system carried out throughout life via bidirectional dynamic network exists. It has been evidenced that IM profile becomes altered in patients with DRE.Objective: to summarize the current literature data on the role for microbiome-gut-brain axis in DRE, as well as to assess an importance of IM composition changes as a prognostic marker for developing DRE.Material and methods. The authors conducted a search for publications in the electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE and eLibrary, as well as Google Scholar search engine. The evaluation of the articles was carried out in accordance with the PRISMA recommendations. Based on the search, 4,158 publications were retrieved from PubMed/MEDLINE database, 173 – from eLibrary, and 1,100 publications found with Google Scholar. After the selection procedure, 121 studies were included in the review.Results. The review provides convincing evidence about a correlation between IM and DRE demonstrating overt differences in IM composition found in patients with epilepsy related to drug sensitivity. IM dysbiosis can be corrected by exogenous interventions such as ketogenic diet, probiotic treatment and fecal microbiota transplantation subsequently resulting in altered brain neurochemical signaling and, therefore, alleviating epileptic activity.Conclusion. A ketogenic diet, probiotics and antibiotics may have some potential to affect epilepsy by correcting IM dysbiosis, but the current studies provide no proper level of evidence. Future clinical multicenter trials should use standardized protocols and a larger-scale patient sample to provide more reliable evidence. Moreover, further fundamental investigations are required to elucidate potential mechanisms and therapeutic targets.

Compound probiotics and glycyrrhizic acid alleviate DON-induced liver damage linked to the alteration of lipid metabolism in piglets

Compound probiotics are capable of effectively breaking down mycotoxins, and glycyrrhizic acid (GA) exhibits hepatoprotective properties. However, the protective efficacy and the underlying mechanism of combined intervention of GA and probiotics (GAP) on ameliorating Deoxynivalenol (DON)-induced liver toxicity remains unclear. This experiment involved 120 weaned piglets, encompassing the control group, the DON group, and the GPD group (E. faecalis and S. cerevisiae + GA + DON). Results showed that GAP significantly mitigated DON-related liver damage and oxidative stress. Furthermore, GAP inhibited the Nrf2/MAPK/NF-κB pathway, ultimately decreasing liver inflammation and apoptosis. Additionally, GAP significantly enhanced the expressions of ZO-1, GLUT2, PePT1, ASCT2, Occludin and Claudin-1. Moreover, metabolomics analysis revealed that GAP modulated lipid metabolism and mitigated liver damage by elevating serum levels of metabolites, such as phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and 3-amino-4-hydroxybenzoic acid. The research provides a theoretically based framework for using GAP to combat DON-induced hepatotoxicity in piglets.