Structure Of Intestinal Microbiota Research Articles

Lactobacillus rhamnosus ZJUIDS07 ameliorates type 2 diabetes in mice through the microbiome-gut-pancreas axis

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia, with its prevalence escalating. It exerts a profound impact on human health care and socio-economic development. Probiotics, known as natural, safe, and minimal side effects, have emerged as promising intervention agents to manage chronic diabetes. Our study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of Lactobacillus rhamnosus ZJUIDS07 for mitigating T2D in mice induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ). Administration of L. rhamnosus ZJUIDS07 led to a reduction in diabetic symptoms, including reversal of weight loss, improvement in hyperglycemia and insulin resistance, mitigation of disruptions in glucose and lipid metabolism, alleviation of pancreatic pathological damage, and reduction in oxidative stress and inflammation. Moreover, treatment with L. rhamnosus ZJUIDS07 could restore intestinal microbiota balance in T2D mice by altering the structure and composition of intestinal microbiota, and increased short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) levels. Specifically, L. rhamnosus ZJUIDS07 significantly decreased the abundance of harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, and Odoribacte, while increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria (especially SCFAs-producing bacteria) such as Muribaculaceae_norank, Dubosiella, Clostridium sensu stricto 1, Lactobacillus, and Faecalibaculum. Our findings highlight that L. rhamnosus ZJUIDS07 represents a promising probiotic strategy for future treatment of T2D, and that the modulation of gut microbiota and their metabolites through the microbiome-gut-pancreas axis play a pivotal role for the antidiabetic effects of L. rhamnosus ZJUIDS07.

Ganoderma lucidum driven fermentation of Rosa roxburghii pomace: Effects on noodle physicochemical properties, digestion, and gut microbiota

Rosa roxburghii pomace (RRP) is a high dietary fiber byproduct that is underutilized. This study investigated the effects of Ganoderma lucidum fermented Rosa roxburghii pomace (FRRP) on noodle cooking characteristics, texture, structure, in vitro digestion, and fermentation. The results showed that soluble dietary fiber, active components (polysaccharides, triterpenoids and dietary flavonoids), and the total cellulase (Filter paper enzymes, Carboxymethyl cellulase), β-glucosidase and laccase activity were significantly increased in FRRP (p < 0.05). FRRP improved the cooking and sensory properties of noodles and inhibited starch hydrolysis during in vitro digestion. The resistant starch content in noodles with 15 % FRRP increased by 12.63 %, and the predicted glycemic index decreased by 9.34 %. Moreover, the intestinal microbiota structure was significantly improved, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. This study contributed to the high-value and environmentally friendly utilization of RRP and provided new insights into the development of efficient noodles.

Protective Role of Indole-3-Acetic Acid Against Salmonella Typhimurium: Inflammation Moderation and Intestinal Microbiota Restoration.

Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), a metabolite derived from microbial tryptophan metabolism, plays a crucial role in regulating intestinal homeostasis. However, the influence and potential applications of IAA in the context of animal pathogen infections remain underexplored. This study investigates the prophylactic effects of IAA pretreatment against Salmonella typhimurium (ST) SL1344 infection, focusing on its ability to attenuate inflammatory responses, enhance intestinal barrier integrity, inhibit bacterial colonization, and restore colonic microbiota dysbiosis. The results demonstrated that IAA ameliorated the clinical symptoms in mice, as evidenced by reduced weight loss and histopathological damage. Furthermore, IAA inhibited the inflammatory response by downregulating the gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-17A, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in colon, ileum, and liver. IAA also preserved the integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier and promoted the expression of tight junction proteins. Additionally, 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed significant alterations in intestinal microbiota structure induced by ST infection following IAA treatment. Notable changes in β diversity and species richness were characterized by the enrichment of beneficial bacteria including Bacteroideaceae, Spirillaceae, and Bacillus. The proliferation of Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar Typhi was significantly inhibited, thereby enhancing the intestinal health of the host. In summary, the oral administration of IAA contributes to the alleviation of inflammation, restoration of the intestinal barrier, and correction of colonic microbiota disturbance in mice challenged with ST.

Unraveling the causation of flatulence on silver pomfret after starvation aquaculture involved in intestinal microbiota structure, enzyme, and histology

During periods of starvation aquaculture, silver pomfret often suffer from flatulence and lateral flapping, which prevents them from refeeding and dying. Despite existing research on this phenomenon, the understanding of the associated changes in the intestine remains limited. This study aimed to investigate flatulence in silver pomfret during starvation. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the enzymatic activity, histology, and microbial communities in the gut. Through the examination of 28 samples, we found that the trigger for flatulence under starvation does not appear to be enzyme activity but rather gut microbes. During periods of food deprivation, the fish often ingest air bubbles, leading to an increased proportion of aerobic bacteria. We observed a notable shift in the β - diversity of the intestinal microbial community in flatulent fish, accompanied by a significant decrease in network stability. A marked enrichment in functional microbes was noted, which contributed to increased activities related to CO2 production. In conclusion, this study provides novel insights into the mechanism of flatulence in silver pomfret during starvation stress, highlighting the role of microbial composition. These findings have significant implications for improving aquaculture practices by addressing microbial management.

Common carp Peptidoglycan Gecognition Protein 2 (CcPGRP2) alleviates gut dysbiosis induced by Aeromonas hydrophila

ObjectivesPeptidoglycan recognition protein 2 (PGRP2) plays a role in regulating immune defense in fish. Our previous studies found that CcPGRP2 helped maintain the integrity of the intestinal mucosa of carp and could bind and agglutinate bacteria when infected with A. hydrophila. However, its effect on the structure of the microbiota has not yet been clarified. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the effect of CcPGRP2 on the intestinal microbiota structure in fish. MethodsIn the present study, common carp were injected with CcPGRP2 protein intraperitoneally and high-throughput sequencing technology was used to study the difference in intestinal microbiota structure. Firstly, the variations in α- and β-diversity of the intestinal microbiota of common carp in control and treatment groups were tested, and the results indicated that intraperitoneal injection of A. hydrophila significantly reduced the microbial α-diversity (within-samples) and β-diversity (between-samples) in common carp gut samples, but CcPGRP2 protein could alleviate these reduction, no matter in the case of simultaneous injection of CcPGRP2 protein and A. hydrophila or a intermitted injection with first injection of CcPGRP2 and then A. hydrophila after 6 h. Subsequently, the intestinal microbiota structures of common carp on various taxonomic levels were interrogated under the treatments. ResultsThe data revealed that the abundance of intestinal pathogen Aeromonas was reduced when CcPGRP2 was injected in the common carp, and the alleviation effect was better when CcPGRP2 was injected with A. hydrophila at the same time, implying the function of CcPGRP2 in inhibiting intestinal dysbiosis. Moreover, the functional prediction demonstrated the possible physiological shifts and the influences of microbes on the environment after the common carp is injected with A. hydrophila and CcPGRP2. Finally, the bacterial interaction patterns results showed that the groups injected with A. hydrophila were diverted away from the control group in terms of clustering relationship, while the injection of CcPGRP2 could reverse the effect of A. hydrophila and keep the microbial structure closer to that of the control group; meanwhile, the effect of simultaneous injection of A. hydrophila and CcPGRP2 was better than that of intermitted injections. ConclusionsAll the results in this study suggest that the CcPGRP2 could alleviate the internal dysbiosis under pathogen infection, which will provide a foundation for disease resistance breeding.

Improvement in Glycolipid Metabolism Parameters After Supplementing Fish Oil-Derived Omega-3 Fatty Acids Is Associated with Gut Microbiota and Lipid Metabolites in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of fish oil-derived omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 PUFAs) on gut microbiota and serum lipid metabolites in T2DM. In a three-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 110 T2DM patients received either fish oil (n = 55) or corn oil (n = 55) capsules daily. Serum lipids, glycemic parameters, gut microbiota diversity, and lipidomics were assessed. This study found that fish oil-derived omega-3 PUFAs intervention did not significantly lower the fasting plasma glucose levels when compared with the baseline level (p > 0.05). However, serum fasting blood glucose (p = 0.039), glycosylated hemoglobin levels (p = 0.048), HOMA-IR (p = 0.022), total cholesterol (p < 0.001), triglyceride (p = 0.034), LDL cholesterol (p = 0.048), and non-HDL levels (p = 0.046) were significantly lower in the fish oil group compared with the corn oil group after three months of intervention. Also, it altered glycerophospholipid metabolism and gut microbiota. After three months, the fish oil group showed a significantly lower abundance of Desulfobacterota compared with the corn oil control group (p = 0.003), with reduced levels of Colidextribacter (p = 0.002), Ralstonia (p = 0.021), and Klebsiella (p = 0.013). Conversely, the abundance of Limosilactobacillus (p = 0.017), Lactobacillus (p = 0.011), and Haemophilus (p = 0.018) increased significantly. In addition, relevant glycolipid metabolism indicators showed significant correlations with the altered profiles of serum lipid metabolites, intestinal bacteria, and fungi. This study highlights the impact of fish oil-derived omega-3 PUFAs on intestinal microbiota structure and function in patients with type 2 diabetes. The observed decrease in pathogenic bacterial species and the enhancement of beneficial species may have significant implications for gut health and systemic inflammation, both of which are pivotal in managing diabetes. Further research is warranted to comprehensively elucidate the long-term benefits and underlying mechanisms of these microbiota alterations.

Characteristics of intestinal microbiota in the acute phase of Kawasaki disease in infants and children

To study the composition, abundance, and functional profiles of the intestinal microbiota in infants and young children with Kawasaki disease (KD) during the acute phase, and to explore the potential role of intestinal microbiota in the pathogenesis of KD. Six children aged 0-3 years with acute KD admitted to the Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Capital Institute of Pediatrics from July to October 2021 were prospectively included as the KD group. Six age- and sex-matched healthy children who underwent physical examinations at the hospital during the same period were selected as the healthy control group. Metagenomics sequencing was used to detect and compare the differences in the microflora structure and functional profiles of fecal samples between the two groups. There were significant differences in the structural composition and diversity of intestinal microbiota between the two groups (P<0.05). Compared with the healthy control group, the abundance of Listeria_monocytogenes (family Listeriaceae and genus Listeria), Bifidobacterium_rousetti, Enterococcus_avium, and Enterococcus_hirae was significantly higher in the intestinal microbiota in the KD group (|LDA|>2.0, P<0.05). The steroid degradation and apoptosis pathways were significantly upregulated in the KD group compared with the healthy control group, while the Bacterial_secretion_system, Sulfur_metabolism, Butanoate_metabolism, Benzoate_degradation, β-alanine metabolism, and α-linolenic acid pathways were significantly downregulated (|LDA|>2, P<0.05). There are significant differences in the structure and diversity of intestinal microbiota between children aged 0-3 years with acute KD and healthy children, suggesting that disturbances in intestinal microbiota occur during the acute phase of KD. In particular, Listeria_monocytogenes, Enterococcus_avium, and Enterococcus_hirae may be involved in the pathogenesis of KD through steroid degradation and apoptosis pathways.

Proteomic analysis and experimental validation reveal the blood–brain barrier protective of Huanshaodan in the treatment of SAMP8 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease

BackgroundHuanshaodan (HSD) is a Chinese Herbal Compound which has a definite clinical effect on Alzheimer’s disease (AD), however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The aim of this study is to preliminarily reveal the mechanism of HSD in the treatment of AD model of SAMP8 mice.MethodsChemical composition of HSD and its drug-containing serum were identified by Q-Orbitrap high resolution liquid mass spectrometry. Six-month-old SAMP8 mice were treated with HSD and Donepezil hydrochloride by gavage for 2 months, and Wogonin for 28 days. Behavioral test was performed to test the learning and memory ability of mice. Immunofluorescence (IF) or Western-blot methods were used to detect the levels of pSer404-tau and β-amyloid (Aβ) in the brain of mice. Hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) staining and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) assay was applied to observe the pathological changes of neurons. Proteomic technology was carried out to analyze and identify the protein network of HSD interventions in AD. Then the pathological process of the revealed AD-related differential proteins was investigated by IF, Q-PCR, Western-blot, Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and 16S rRNA sequencing methods.ResultsThe results showed that HSD and Wogonin, one of the components in its drug-containing serum, can effectively improve the cognitive impairments of SAMP8 mice, protect hippocampal neurons and synapses, and reduce the expression of pSer404-tau and Aβ. HSD and Wogonin reduced the levels of fibrinogen β chain (FGB) and γ chain (FGG), the potential therapeutic targets revealed by proteomics analysis, reduced the colocalization of FGB and FGG with Aβ, ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba-1), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), increased level of and myelin basic protein (MBP). Meanwhile, HSD and Wogonin increased ZO-1 and Occludin levels, improved brain microvascular injury, and reduced levels of bacteria/bacterial DNA and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the brain of mice. In addition, 16S rRNA sequencing indicated that HSD regulated the structure of intestinal microbiota of mice.ConclusionThe effects of HSD on AD may be achieved by inhibiting the levels of fibrinogen and the interactions on glia cells in the brain, and by modulating the structure of intestinal microbiota and improving the blood–brain barrier function.

A multi-omics approach reveals the changes in the gut microbiome and metabolism of large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) by dietary supplementation with Bacillus

The intestine serves as the primary site for nutrient absorption in animals. Research in gut biology is increasingly focused on understanding its correlation with the microbiome, specifically by employing probiotics in diets to enhance gut health and stimulate animal growth. In this study, we isolated two Bacillus species (Bacillus halophilus and Lysinibacillus sphaericus) from the intestinal tract of a large yellow croaker and investigated their roles as dietary supplements, assessing their impact on intestinal microbial composition and their efficacy in large yellow croaker growth and immunity. These functions are intrinsically linked to the growth and immune response of large yellow croaker. Our investigation included a comprehensive analysis of various omics results derived from intestinal content samples, encompassing 16S rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics. These analyses were combined with assessments of differences in immune functionalities observed in the liver and head kidney, aiming to understand the interaction between the two Bacillus species, intestinal microorganisms, and host metabolism. Our findings demonstrated several significant outcomes: (1) Supplementation with two Bacillus species induced considerable alterations in the intestinal microbiome, particularly in the suppression of Vibrionaceae among juvenile large yellow croaker. (2) The influence of pathogenic bacteria such as Vibrio on intestinal health is not solely associated with their characteristics but also closely linked to their relative abundance in the intestine. (3) Distinct dietary groups further influenced changes in the metabolome profile by impacting the intestinal microbiota structure in juvenile large yellow croaker, thereby influencing various metabolites such as amino acids, terpenes, bile acids, and steroids. (4) Differences in the composition of intestinal microbiota among different feed types significantly affected individual antioxidant functionalities, impacting the morphology and immune capabilities of immune organs like the liver. Exploring intricate host-microbiome interactions using multi-omics approaches can provide a better assessment of probiotics' functional potential. Our results revealed that Lysinibacillus sphaericus enhanced intestinal development, increased antioxidant enzyme activity, and facilitated the growth of large yellow croaker.

A novel arabinogalactan extracted from Epiphyllum oxypetalum (DC.) Haw improves the immunity and gut microbiota in cyclophosphamide‐induced immunosuppressed mice

AbstractA novel type I arabinogalactan (AG‐I) polysaccharide (EPS) from Epiphyllum oxypetalum (DC.) Haw's flowers is hypothesized to possess immunomodulatory activity. This study investigated EPS's effects on immune functions and its potential mechanism for enhancing intestinal health in immunosuppressed mice. The results showed that supplementing EPS significantly alleviated immune organ damage, increased the thymus index (p &lt; 0.01), and regulated the key immune factors, including the tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), immunoglobulin A (IgA), and complement 3 (C3) in the liver (p &lt; 0.05). EPS promoted the expression of intestinal immune barrier and chemical barrier proteins such as interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) and mucin 2 (MUC2) (p &lt; 0.05), effectively repairing intestinal damage. EPS improved the diversity and structure of intestinal microbiota in immunosuppressed mice (p &lt; 0.05) and significantly altered the abundance of intestinal immune‐related microbial taxa, including Lactobacillaceae and Lactobacillus (p &lt; 0.01). Furthermore, EPS supplementation altered intestinal lactic acid metabolism, significantly increasing lactic acid levels by up to 3.4‐fold (p &lt; 0.01), and enhanced the expression of Gpr81, Wnt3a, and β‐catenin proteins at the bottom of the colonic crypts, which may repair the intestinal physical barrier. Overall, EPS represents a novel AG‐I immunomodulatory dietary polysaccharide that enhances immunity and improves gut health.

Positive Intervention of Distinct Peptides in Clostridioides difficile Infection in a Mouse Model

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a common healthcare-associated infection and the leading cause of gastroenteritis-related deaths worldwide. To investigate the effects of peptide composition of different protein products on CDI, we analyzed and compared the peptide sequences and compositions from Engraulis japonicus and Glycine max using Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). An animal model of CDI was also established to investigate the potential therapeutic effects of these peptides in vivo. The peptide compositions of E. japonicus and G. max differed, with only 11% of the peptide sequences being identical. Oral administration of the tested peptides could reduce intestinal inflammation, repair the intestinal barrier, increase the proportion of beneficial bacteria, and reduce the proportion of harmful bacteria, providing a therapeutic effect against CDI. However, the peptides may differ considerably in some aspects. E. japonicus peptides were superior to G. max peptides in promoting colon epithelial cell proliferation and repairing tight intestinal cell junctions. Interestingly, the two sources of peptides have different effects on the cecal microbiome. E. japonicus peptides can effectively restore the diversity and richness of intestinal microbiota, while G. max peptides have poor regulatory effects on the intestinal microbiota structure. Overall, E. japonicus peptides showed better results than G. max peptides in treating CDI. This study supports the potential treatment of CDI with natural peptides and promotes the development of specialty foods for CDI enteritis. Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a common healthcare-associated infection and the leading cause of gastroenteritis-related deaths worldwide. To investigate the effects of peptide composition of different protein products on CDI, we analyzed and compared the peptide sequences and compositions from Engraulis japonicus and Glycine max using Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). An animal model of CDI was also established to investigate the potential therapeutic effects of these peptides in vivo. The peptide compositions of E. japonicus and G. max differed, with only 11% of the peptide sequences being identical. Oral administration of the tested peptides could reduce intestinal inflammation, repair the intestinal barrier, increase the proportion of beneficial bacteria, and reduce the proportion of harmful bacteria, providing a therapeutic effect against CDI. However, the peptides may differ considerably in some aspects. E. japonicus peptides were superior to G. max peptides in promoting colon epithelial cell proliferation and repairing tight intestinal cell junctions. Interestingly, the two sources of peptides have different effects on the cecal microbiome. E. japonicus peptides can effectively restore the diversity and richness of intestinal microbiota, while G. max peptides have poor regulatory effects on the intestinal microbiota structure.

The Indigenous Probiotic Lactococcus lactis PH3-05 Enhances the Growth, Digestive Physiology, and Gut Microbiota of the Tropical Gar (Atractosteus tropicus) Larvae.

Probiotics in aquaculture hold promise for enhancing fish health and growth. Due to their increased specificity and affinity for their host, indigenous probiotics may offer isolated and potentially amplified benefits. This study investigated the effects of Lactococcus lactis PH3-05, previously isolated from adults of tropical gar (Atractosteus tropicus), on the growth, survival, digestive enzyme activity, intestinal morphology, expression of barrier and immune genes, and intestinal microbiota composition in the larvae of tropical gar. Larvae were fed with live L. lactis PH3-05 concentrations of 104, 106, and 108 CFU/g for 15 days alongside a control diet without probiotics. Higher concentrations of L. lactis PH3-05 (106 and 108 CFU/g) positively influenced larval growth, increasing hepatocyte area and enterocyte height. The 106 CFU/g dose significantly enhanced survival (46%) and digestive enzyme activity. Notably, the 108 CFU/g dose stimulated increased expression of muc-2 and il-10 genes, suggesting enhanced mucosal barrier function and anti-inflammatory response. Although L. lactis PH3-05 did not significantly change the diversity, structure, or Phylum level composition of intestinal microbiota, which was constituted by Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota, Chloroflexi, and Firmicutes, an increase in Lactobacillus abundance was observed in fish fed with 106 CFU/g, suggesting enhanced probiotic colonization. These results demonstrate that administering L. lactis PH3-05 at 106 CFU/g promotes growth, survival, and digestive health in A. tropicus larvae, establishing it as a promising indigenous probiotic candidate for aquaculture applications.

LACTIC ACID BACTERIA AS INGREDIENTS OF PROBIOTIC PREPARATIONS

Lactic acid bacteria have a long and extensive application record as probiotic strains. Lately, due to wide-spread use of molecular-genetic, transcirptomic, proteomic, metabolomic etc. studies and the massive accumulation of data on the structure and functions of symbiotic intestinal microbiota, the interest in probiotic microorganisms tends to expand year-by-year. Lactic acid bacteria were the first used probiotic species, are still of sharp market demand and have been recognized as the most thoroughly studied microbes among functional relatives. However, characteristics inherent to probiotic bacteria are strain-specific, as a rule, and for preparations with defined purpose it is essential to select special strains showing a complex of appropriate properties. It accentuates the top relevance of research aimed at selection of lactic acid bacterial strains suitable for diverse probiotic preparations. For several decades we curried out investigations to isolate strains of lactic acid bacteria from various natural sources, to characterize their properties and to derive technologies of producing pro- and prebiotic preparations for farm stock, poultry, veterinary practice, food processing, cosmetic formulas, etc. Enrichment, in addition to bifidobacteria, of probiotic product Poultrybac with lactic acid bacteria showing high antagonistic activity toward pathogen Salmonella typhimurium and producing enzymes capable to hydrolyze feed oligo- and polysaccharides, promotes prevention of salmonellosis cases, normalizes gut microbiocenosis, contributes to assimilation of fodder, accelerates growth of broilers. Bacteria of genera Lacticaseibacillus, Limosilactobacillus, Lactococcus constitute bacterial preparation Bilametrit designed for prophylaxis and complex therapy of endometrites in cows, actively suppress growth of pathogenic microorganisms of the genera Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pseudomonas, Salmonella, Escherichia, including isolates from uterus exudate from animals with post-partum endometritis. Owing to the pronounced adhesive ability to protein ligands the selected lactic acid bacteria recover microbiocenosis in reproductive system, especially after antibiotic therapy, facilitate regeneration of endometrium, produce organic acids, antimicrobial peptides, amino acids, enzymes of carbohydrate and protein metabolism. Inclusion, in addition to bifidobacteria, of microorganisms of genus Lactiplantibacillus with a high antagonistic activity against pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms responsible for inflammation of the mammary gland in animals as component of dry probiotic preparation Bactomast shifts the bias of the mammary gland biocenosis towards lactic acid bacteria, curtails general insemination level 2.4–4.8 times, provides a shield protecting from penetration of pathogenic agents, decreases the ratio of somatic cells in milk. The constituent bacterial strains raise non-specific macro host resistance, display tolerance to a series of antimicrobial compounds (antibiotics of aminoglycoside and cephalosporin groups), allowing to recommend it for comprehensive therapy of mastites in cows. Bactomast is not inferior to veterinary drug iodomastin in therapeutic efficacy (83.3%). A crucial characteristic of the above-mentioned preparations, as well as probiotics Lactimet, Bilavet (liquid form), Bilavet-C (dry product), complex probiotic Synvet, probiotic ingredient Lyobact in whole milk substitutes, dry bacterial concentrate IM-pro fortifying dairy products with probiotics is that they are safe and eco-friendly, i.e. they will not cause adverse effects on the body and reproductive functions of humans, animals, poultry, are not accompanied by health complications, do not deteriorate quality of milk and meat products. Farm products may be consumed without restraints following treatment with biopreparations.

Organic Trace Minerals Enhance the Gut Health of British Shorthair Cats by Regulating the Structure of Intestinal Microbiota.

Trace minerals are essential for biological processes, including enzyme function, immune response, and hormone synthesis. The study assessed the effects of different dietary trace minerals on the gut health, microbiota composition, and immune function of cats. Eighteen adult British Shorthair cats were divided into three groups receiving inorganic trace minerals (ITM), a 50/50 mix of inorganic and organic trace minerals (ITM + OTM), or organic trace minerals (OTM) for 28 days. The OTM showed enhanced immune capacities, reduced intestinal barrier function, and lower inflammation condition. The OTM altered gut microbiota diversity, with a lower Simpson index and higher Shannon index (p < 0.05). Specifically, the abundance of Bacteroidota, Lachnospiraceae, and Prevotella in the OTM group were higher than the ITM group (p < 0.05). Metabolomic analysis identified 504 differential metabolites between the OTM and ITM groups (p < 0.05, VIP-pred-OPLS-DA > 1), affecting pathways related to steroid hormone biosynthesis and glycerophospholipid metabolism (p < 0.05, VIP-pred-OPLS-DA > 2). Additionally, there was a significant correlation between intestinal microbiota and differential metabolites. To conclude, dietary OTM can modulate the gut metabolite and microbiota composition, enhance immune and intestinal barrier function, and mitigate inflammation in cats, highlighting the benefit of using OTM in feline diet to promote the intestinal and overall health.

Beneficial effects of Lactobacillus plantarum on growth performance, immune status, antioxidant function and intestinal microbiota in broilers

Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) has been globally regarded as antibiotic alternative in animal farming in the past few years. However, the potential function of L. plantarum in broilers has not been systemically explored. In this study, a total of 560 one-day-old yellow-feathered broilers were randomly divided into 3 groups, fed with basal diet and drank with L. plantarum HJZW08 (LP) at the concentration of 0 (CON), 1000 × 10^5 (LP1000), and 2000 × 10^5 CFU/L (LP2000) for 70 d. Results showed that the body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), immunoglobulin A (IgA), IgY, and anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 (IL-10) were markedly improved (P < 0.05), while the levels of pro-inflammatory IL-2, IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in serum were decreased (P < 0.05) in the LP2000 group comparing with the CON group. Besides, LP treatment groups prominently increased the levels and activities of antioxidant enzymes and decreased the content of malondialdehyde (MDA). Additionally, the levels of isobutyric acid in the LP1000 and LP2000 groups and isovaleric acid in the LP2000 group were significantly improved. More importantly, the α-diversity and microbial structure of intestinal microbiota were pronounced altered by LP supplementation. The results showed that only the relative abundance of Actinobacteriota was significantly increased in the LP2000 group, while 6 kinds of bacteria on genus level were significantly changed. For further validation, linear discriminant analysis with effect size (LEfSe) plots revealed that 8 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were predominant in the CON group, while Bacteroides and other beneficial species such as Lactimicrobium massiliense (ASV4 and ASV36), Intestinimonas butyriciproducens (ASV71), and Barnesiella viscericola (ASV152 and ASV571) were enriched in the LP groups. Taken together, dietary supplementation with LP obviously enhanced the immune status, antioxidant capacity, and stabilized the cecal microbiota and SCFAs, contributing to the improvement of growth performance of broilers. Our study laid good foundation for the application of probiotic Lactobacillus in animal industry in the future.

Ziziphus Jujube Polysaccharides inhibit over-abundance of fecal butyric acid in mildly stressed growing mice to ameliorate depression-like behavior

The microbial-gut-brain axis is the main pathway that induces depression in adolescents. In Chinese medicine, Ziziphus Jujube Polysaccharides (ZJP) are recognized for their capacity to modulate gut microbiota and bolster immune function, suggesting their potential as a therapeutic agent for mitigating youth depression. In this study, a 44 d chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model was used to investigate how ZJP alleviates depression-like behavior in male C57BL/6 mice. The administration of ZJP ameliorated depression-like behavior, down-regulated serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and up-regulated hippocampal 5-HT. Correlation analysis revealed that fecal butyric acid (BA) concentration was positively correlated with depression-like behavior index (P＜0.05). ZJP modified the gut microbiota by replenishing deficient saccharides (fructose, galactose, rhamnose, arabinose), diminishing the prevalence of SCFA-producing bacteria (Alistipes, Lachnospiraceae, Colidextribacter). Additionally, ZJP decreased the gene abundance of the sugar and SCFA metabolism pathways, and related enzymes in the gut of model mice, thereby reversing butyrate enrichment and ameliorating associated depression-like behavior. In summary, ZJP stabilized the intestinal microbiota structure and balanced the BA metabolism in CUMS mice by regulating the metabolism of gut microbiota-sugar-SCFAs, thereby improving depression-like behavior.

Pharmacological mechanisms of Ma Xing Shi Gan Decoction in treating influenza virus-induced pneumonia: intestinal microbiota and pulmonary glycolysis.

Influenza virus is one of the most common pathogens that cause viral pneumonia. During pneumonia, host immune inflammation regulation involves microbiota in the intestine and glycolysis in the lung tissues. In the clinical guidelines for pneumonia treatment in China, Ma Xing Shi Gan Decoction (MXSG) is a commonly prescribed traditional Chinese medicine formulation with significant efficacy, however, it remains unclear whether its specific mechanism of action is related to the regulation of intestinal microbiota structure and lung tissue glycolysis. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of action of MXSG in an animal model of influenza virus-induced pneumonia. Specifically, we aimed to elucidate how MXSG modulates intestinal microbiota structure and lung tissue glycolysis to exert its therapeutic effects on pneumonia. We established a mouse model of influenza virus-induced pneumoni, and treated with MXSG. We observed changes in inflammatory cytokine levels and conducted 16S rRNA gene sequencing to assess the intestinal microbiota structure and function. Additionally, targeted metabolomics was performed to analyze lung tissue glycolytic metabolites, and Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were performed to assess glycolysis-related enzymes, lipopolysaccharides (LPSs), HIF-1a, and macrophage surface markers. Correlation analysis was conducted between the LPS and omics results to elucidate the relationship between intestinal microbiota and lung tissue glycolysis in pneumonia animals under the intervention of Ma Xing Shi Gan Decoction. MXSG reduced the abundance of Gram-negative bacteria in the intestines, such as Proteobacteria and Helicobacter, leading to reduced LPS content in the serum and lungs. This intervention also suppressed HIF-1a activity and lung tissue glycolysis metabolism, decreased the number of M1-type macrophages, and increased the number of M2-type macrophages, effectively alleviating lung damage caused by influenza virus-induced pneumonia. MXSG can alleviate glycolysis in lung tissue, suppress M1-type macrophage activation, promote M2-type macrophage activation, and mitigate inflammation in lung tissue. This therapeutic effect appears to be mediated by modulating gut microbiota and reducing endogenous LPS production in the intestines. This study demonstrates the therapeutic effects of MXSG on pneumonia and explores its potential mechanism, thus providing data support for the use of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of respiratory infectious diseases.

Aluminum-induced oxidative stress promotes changes in the structure of the gut microbiota and liver deficiency

As a low-toxicity metal, aluminum has garnered increasing attention in relation to its impact on the human body; however, the specific mechanism of action remains unclear. To bridge this knowledge gap and facilitate practical applications, this study took 8-week-old ICR mice as the research object to study the effects of dietary addition of aluminum potassium sulfate on intestinal flora structure and liver. As the concentration of aluminum increased, it inhibited mice weight growth rate and significantly altered the composition of white blood cells in their bloodstream. Histological examination revealed liver inflammation through HE staining sections. The oxidative stress markers MDA increased, GSH-PX and CAT decreased significantly. And liver function index MAO increased, TC and ALP decreased first and then increased. Moreover, there was a significant increase in pro-inflammatory factor TNF-α content. Further 16S rRNA sequencing analysis demonstrated substantial changes in both composition and structure of mouse intestinal microbiota induced by aluminum exposure; microbial phenotype prediction indicated that aluminum-induced oxidative stress promoted an increase in abundance of oxidation-resistant microbial types. Alterations in gut flora structure also influenced the liver via the gut-liver axis. These findings lay a foundation for further research on the regulation and interaction of aluminum on intestinal flora.

Effect of different delivery modes on intestinal microbiota and immune function of neonates

Different delivery methods can cause variations in the composition and structure of intestinal microbiota in neonates. However, the impact of the microecological environment on host immune function requires further investigation. In this study, 75 healthy neonates were divided into two groups: vaginal delivery group (n = 36) and cesarean section group (n = 39). Fecal and peripheral blood samples were collected from the 7th to the 10th day. 16S rRNA sequencing technique was performed to investigate the gut microbiota on fecal samples. Levels of immunoglobulins and Th1 and Th2 cells in the peripheral blood of neonates were measured. The abundance of Escherichia, Bifidobacterium, and Bacteroides in neonates in the cesarean section group was significantly lower than that in the vaginal delivery group. Metabolic pathway analysis showed three significantly up-regulated metabolic pathways in the intestinal microbiota of neonates in the cesarean section group. The levels of serum IgG and IL-12p70 in the cesarean section group were lower than those in the vaginal delivery group, and the proportion of IFN-γ/IL-4 was significantly lower in the cesarean section group compared to the vaginal delivery group. The mode of delivery has potential impact on the intestinal microbiota and immune functions of neonates, potentially leading to an imbalance of Th1/Th2 cells in neonates delivered by cesarean section.

Intestinal microbiota dysbiosis contributes to the liver damage in subchronic arsenic-exposed mice.

There is an extensive amount of evidence that links changes in the intestinal microbiota structure to the progression and pathophysiology of many liver diseases. However, comprehensive analysis of gut flora dysbiosis in arsenic-induced hepatotoxicity is lacking. Herein, C57BL/6 mice are exposed to arsenic (1, 2, or 4 mg/kg) for 12 weeks, after which fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) study is conducted to confirm the roles of the intestinal microbiome in pathology. Treatment with arsenic results in pathological and histological changes in the liver, such as inflammatory cell infiltration and decreased levels of TP and CHE but increased levels of ALP, GGT, TBA, AST, and ALT. Arsenic causes an increase in the relative abundance of Escherichia-Shigella, Klebsiella and Blautia, but a decrease in the relative abundance of Muribaculum and Lactobacillus. In arsenic-exposed mice, protein expressions of Occludin, ZO-1, and MUC2 are significantly decreased, but the level of FITC in serum is increased, and FITC fluorescence is extensively dispersed in the intestinal tract. Importantly, FMT experiments show that mice gavaged with stool from arsenic-treated mice exhibit severe inflammatory cell infiltration in liver tissues. Arsenic-manipulated gut microbiota transplantation markedly facilitates gut flora dysbiosis in the recipient mice, including an up-regulation in Escherichia-Shigella and Bacteroides, and a down-regulation in Lactobacillus and Desulfovibrio. In parallel with the intestinal microbiota wreck, protein expressions of Occludin, ZO-1, and MUC2 are decreased. Our findings suggest that subchronic exposure to arsenic can affect the homeostasis of the intestinal microbiota, induce intestinal barrier dysfunction, increase intestinal permeability, and cause damage to liver tissues in mice.