Dietary supplementation of gingerols- and shogaols-enriched ginger root extract attenuate pain-associated behaviors while modulating gut microbiota and metabolites in rats with spinal nerve ligation

Crosstalk Among Gut Microbiota, Fecal Metabolites, and Amygdala Neuropathology Genes After Ginger Polyphenol Administration in Female Rats with Neuropathic Pain: Evidence for Microbiota-Gut-Brain Connection

Objectives. The relationships among neuropathic pain, gut microbiota, microbiome-derived metabolites, and neuropathology have received increasing attention. This study examined the effects of two dosages of gingerol-enriched ginger (GEG) on mechanical hypersensitivity, anxiety-like behavior, gut microbiome composition and its metabolites, and neuropathology markers in female rats in the spinal nerve ligation (SNL) model of neuropathic pain. Methods. Forty female rats were assigned to 4 groups: sham-vehicle, SNL-vehicle, SNL+GEG at 200 mg/kg BW, and SNL+GEG at 600 mg/kg BW via oral gavage. All animals were given an AIN-93G diet for 5 weeks. Mechanical hypersensitivity was assessed by the von Frey test. Anxiety-like behavior was assessed by the open field test. Fecal microbiota composition and metabolites were determined using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and GC-MS, respectively. Neuropathology gene expression profiling of the amygdala was assessed by an nCounter® Neuropathology pathway panel. Results. Both GEG-treated groups showed decreased mechanical hypersensitivity and anxiety-like behavior in the SNL model. Gut microbiome diversity in both GEG groups was decreased compared with untreated SNL rats. In the SNL model, phyla such as Bacteroidota, Proteobacteria and Verrucomicrobiota were decreased. Compared with the untreated SNL group, both GEG groups exhibited increased abundance of the phyla Bacteroidota (i.e., Rikenella, Alistipes, Muribaculaceae, Odoribacter), Firmicutes (i.e., UBA1819, Ruminococcaceae, Oscillospiraceae, Roseburia), and Verrucomicrobiota (i.e., Victivallis). GEG groups had higher levels of nine hydrophilic positive metabolites [val-glu, urocanic acid, oxazolidinone, L-threonine, L-norleucine, indole, imino-tryptophan, 2,3-octadiene-5,7-diyn-1-ol, and (2E)-3-(3-hydroxyphenyl) acrylaldehyde] and two hydrophilic negative metabolites [methylmalonic acid and metaphosphoric acid], as well as lower levels of five hydrophilic metabolites [xanthine, N-acetylmuramic acid, doxaprost, adenine, and 1-myristoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine]. Among the 770 neuropathology genes, 1 gene (PLA2G4A) was upregulated and 2 genes (CDK5R1 and SHH) were downregulated in SNL rats. GEG caused the upregulation of nine genes (APC, CCNH, EFNA5, GRN, HEXB, ITPR1, PCSK2, TAF9, and WFS1) and downregulation of three genes (AVP, C4A, and TSPO) in the amygdala. Conclusions. GEG supplementation mitigated pain-associated behaviors in female rats with neuropathic pain, in part by reversing the molecular neuropathology signature of the amygdala. This was associated with changes in the gut microbiome composition and fecal metabolites, which could play a role in mediating the effects of GEG on neuropathic pain.

Evaluating the anti-neuropathic effects of the thymol-loaded nanofibrous scaffold in a rat model of spinal cord injury

Background

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating condition characterized by partial or complete loss of motor and sensory function caused by mechanical trauma to the spinal cord. Novel therapeutic approaches are continuously explored to enhance spinal cord regeneration and functional recovery.

Purpose

In this study, we investigated the efficacy of the poly(vinyl alcohol) and chitosan (PVA/CS) scaffold loaded with different thymol concentrations (5, 10, and 15 wt%) in a rat compression model for SCI treatment compare to other (e.g., thymol and scaffold) control groups.

Results and discussion

The thymol-loaded scaffold exhibited a smooth surface and a three-dimensional nanofibrous structure with nanoscale diameter. The conducted analyses verified the successful incorporation of thymol into the scaffold and its high water absorption, porosity, and wettability attributes. Behavioral assessment of functional recovery showed improving sensory and locomotor impairment. Furthermore, histopathological examinations indicated the regenerative potential of the thymol-loaded nanofiber scaffold, by neuronal survival.

Conclusion

Therefore, these findings suggest that the thymol-loaded nanofibrous scaffolds have promising pharmacological activities for alleviating neuropathic pain and addressing complications induced by SCI.

Dysbiosis is associated with the behavioral phenotype observed in the triple-hit Wisket rat model of schizophrenia

Comorbidities between gastrointestinal diseases and psychiatric disorders have been widely reported, with the gut-brain axis implicated as a potential biological basis. Thus, dysbiosis may play an important role in the etiology of schizophrenia, which is barely detected. Triple-hit Wisket model rats exhibit various schizophrenia-like behavioral phenotypes. The present study aimed to compare the diversity and abundance of gut microbiota in Wisket model and control rats; furthermore, to correlate the microbial taxonomic profiles to indices of behavioral change. Tail-flick and Ambitus tests were used to assess acute heat pain sensitivity, and record exploration and locomotor activity along with motivation in young adult, control and Wisket model rats. Fecal microbiota composition was profiled by deep sequencing of bacterial 16S rRNA, and it was correlated to behavioral phenotype. Wisket rats exhibited significantly decreased pain sensitivity, lower locomotor activity and exploration, and impaired motivation compared with controls. No significant differences were observed in bacterial alpha diversity between the groups; however, clear differences in community structure were observed. Wisket rats showed decreases in several genera of Firmicutes and Saccharimonas, and increases in Bacteriodetes and Helicobacter phyla compared with controls. Correlation analysis revealed significant associations between the microbiota profile and the behavioral phenotype. This is the first demonstration that fecal microbiota composition is markedly altered in a triple-hit schizophrenia rat model, suggesting the contribution of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in the development of the schizophrenia-like behavioral phenotype. Thus targeting the gut microbiota may be a novel approach to treat such impairments.

Phytochemical analysis of dried ginger extract and its inhibitory effect and mechanism on Helicobacter pylori and associated ureases

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), one of the most common infectious pathogens in the world, can cause gastritis, digestive ulcers, and even gastric cancer. H. pylori urease (HPU) is a distinctive virulence factor of H. pylori that allows it to be distinguished from other pathogens. Dried ginger is a famous edible and medicinal herb that is commonly used to prevent and treat gastrointestinal tract-related diseases. In this study, phytochemical analysis of the aqueous extract of dried ginger (DGE) and the inhibition of DGE on H. pylori was investigated. Subsequently, we evaluated the inhibitory activity of DGE against enzymes including HPU and jack bean urease (JBU) and determined its potential mechanism of action. UPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis indicated that a total of 63 compounds including seven glycosides, nine terpenoids, two esters, seven phenols, eight lignans, five phenylpropanoids, and four phenolic acids were identified in DGE. DGE was observed to inhibit the growth of four H. pylori strains (ATCC 43504, NCTC 26695, SS1, and ICDC 111001) with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values spanning the range of 0.05 to 1.50 mg mL-1. Moreover, DGE has higher enzyme inhibitory activity on HPU (IC50 = 0.49 ± 0.01 mg mL-1) than on JBU (IC50 = 0.54 ± 0.01 mg mL-1). Enzyme inhibitory kinetic analysis revealed that the inhibition type of DGE against HPU was slow-binding and anti-competitive, whereas it was slow-binding and mixed type on JBU. A further mechanism study indicated that the protective effect of sulfhydryl-containing compounds on enzyme activity was significantly better than that of inorganic compounds, indicating that the action site of DGE inhibition of enzyme was the sulfhydryl residue. The results of DTT reactivation experiments showed that the DGE-urease complex was reversible. Furthermore, molecular docking investigation showed that the main components of DGE interacted with sulfhydryl groups and Ni2+. In conclusion, DGE effectively inhibited the growth of H. pylori and the activity of its key virulence factor urease. And the in-depth study of the kinetic characteristics and the mechanism of action showed that the active site sulfhydryl group and Ni2+ might be the targets of urease inhibition by DGE. Our study may provide experimental evidence for the traditional application of dried ginger in the treatment of H. pylori-associated gastric diseases.

Bisphenol S impairs oocyte quality by inducing gut microbiota dysbiosis

A good quality egg is essential for a successful pregnancy and early embryo development. Oocyte development is vulnerable to environmental exposures. Bisphenol S (BPS) is widely used as a replacement for its analog bisphenol A, but the reproductive toxicity of BPS has been of great concern. In this study, we showed that BPS exposure induces dysbiosis of the gut microbiota, which further leads to intestinal permeability and inflammation, and ultimately impairs oocyte quality. More importantly, we found that alginate oligosaccharide reshapes the gut microbiota to improve gut homeostasis, thereby preventing the deleterious effects of BPS on the gut and oocytes. Overall, this study not only demonstrates that BPS exposure impairs the intestine and oocytes by inducing dysbiosis of the gut microbiota but also develops a preventive strategy.

IMPORTANCE

Oocyte development is vulnerable to stimulation by intrinsic and extrinsic factors, particularly many environmental pollutants and chemicals in daily life. The reproductive toxicity of bisphenol S has been of great concern, although it is widely used as a safe substitute for its analog bisphenol A. However, it is not known how bisphenol S impairs oocyte quality. This work presents the exciting finding that bisphenol S induces gut microbiota dysbiosis, which further leads to increased intestinal permeability and inflammation and ultimately damages oocytes. More importantly, we show that alginate oligosaccharide improves gut homeostasis by reshaping the gut microbiota, therefore preventing the bisphenol S-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis and gut and oocyte damage. These findings present a major advance in the understanding of bisphenol S toxicity to oocytes and also provide a preventive strategy.

Gingerols: Preparation, encapsulation, and bioactivities focusing gut microbiome modulation and attenuation of disease symptoms

BACKGROUND

Gut dysbiosis, chronic diseases, and microbial recurrent infections concerns have driven the researchers to explore phytochemicals from medicinal and food homologous plants to modulate gut microbiota, mitigate diseases, and inhibit pathogens. Gingerols have attracted attention as therapeutic agents due to their diverse biological activities like gut microbiome regulation, gastro-protective, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-oxidative effects.

PURPOSE

This review aimed to summarize the gingerols health-promoting potential, specifically focusing on the regulation of gut microbiome, attenuation of disease symptoms, mechanisms of action, and signaling pathways involved.

METHOD

Research findings from experimental and clinical studies have been summarized regarding gingerols effects on the modulation of gut microbiome and its metabolites, and attenuation of disease symptoms.

RESULTS

Gingerols are phenolic compounds characterized by a common 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl moiety in their chemical structures, and further divided into different gingerol types, including gingerols (major), shogaols, paradols, gingerdiols, gingerdiones, and zingerones (minor). Advanced extraction techniques (e.g., ionic liquid-based-, enzyme-assisted-, microwave-assisted-, pressurized liquid-, ultrasound-assisted-, and supercritical fluid extractions) were reported as optimal alternatives to conventional methods for gingerols extraction. Research studies reported that gingerols positively modulated the composition of gut microbiome that helped to combat disease symptoms (e.g., obesity by decreasing weight gain- (Lactobacillus reuteri and Lachnospiraceae) and increasing weight loss associated-bacteria (Akkermansia, Muribaculaceae, and Alloprevotella). Gingerols intervention also ameliorated ulcerative colitis by increasing relative abundance of the beneficial bacteria (Akkermansia, Lachnospiraceae NK4A136, and Muribaculaceae_norank), and decreasing pathogenic microorganisms (Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, and Desulfovibrio). Emerging delivery systems (e.g., microcapsules, nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, nanoemulsions, and nanoliposomes) can enhance the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of gingerols by preserving their inherent properties and addressing challenges of stability, solubility, and absorption.

CONCLUSION

Gingerols are promising therapeutic agents to modulate gut microbiome (increase beneficial bacteria and inhibit pathogenic microbes), and attenuate chronic disease symptoms such as diabetes, colitis, obesity, oxidative stress, and cancer. Despite significant progress, challenges persist in transforming research findings into industrial applications, such as stability and solubility during processing and low bioavailability in the distal gut to impart desirable health benefits.

Effects of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Microplastic Particles on Gut Microbiota Composition and Health Status in Rabbit Livestock

The widespread use of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and its entry into humans and livestock is of serious concern. In our study, we investigated the impact of PVC treatments on physiological, pathological, hormonal, and microbiota changes in female rabbits. Trend-like alterations in weight were observed in the spleen, liver, and kidney in both low (P1) and high dose (P2) PVC treatment groups. Histopathological examination revealed exfoliation of the intestinal mucosa in the treated groups compared to the control, and microplastic particles were penetrated and embedded in the spleen. Furthermore, both P1 and P2 showed increased 17-beta-estradiol (E2) hormone levels, indicating early sexual maturation. Moreover, the elevated tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels suggest inflammatory reactions associated with PVC treatment. Genus-level analyses of the gut microbiota in group P2 showed several genera with increased or decreased abundance. In conclusion, significant or trend-like correlations were demonstrated between the PVC content of feed and physiological, pathological, and microbiota parameters. To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the broad-spectrum effects of PVC microplastic exposure in rabbits. These results highlight the potential health risks associated with PVC microplastic exposure, warranting further investigations in both animals and humans.

Immune cells mediate the effects of gut microbiota on neuropathic pain: a Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

The gut microbiota may be involved in neuropathic pain. However, the causal association between gut microbiota and neuropathic pain remains unclear. Whether immune cells and inflammatory factors mediate the pathway from gut microbiota to neuropathic pain has not been elucidated.

METHODS

We obtained the summary data of 412 gut microbiota, 731 immune cells, 91 inflammatory factors, and five types of neuropathic pain (drug-induced neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, sciatica, trigeminal neuralgia, and unspecified neuralgia) from large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) datasets and the FinnGen database. We used bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the causal association between gut microbiota and neuropathic pain. Additionally, we conducted a mediation analysis to identify whether immune cells and inflammatory factors act as mediators within these causal relationships.

RESULTS

Our study revealed 30 causal relationships between 26 gut bacterial taxa and five types of neuropathic pain, including four associated with drug-induced neuropathy, six with postherpetic neuralgia, five with sciatica, eight with trigeminal neuralgia, and seven with unspecified neuralgia. Moreover, we identified 35 gut bacterial pathway abundances causally involved in neuropathic pain. The reverse MR analysis showed no evidence of reverse causality from gut microbiota to neuropathic pain. Mediation analysis demonstrated that the immune cell phenotype "HLA-DR++ monocyte % leukocyte" mediated the causal relationship between p_Proteobacteria and sciatica with a mediation proportion of 36.15% (P = 0.038), whereas "CD11c on CD62L+ myeloid dendritic cell" mediated the causal pathway from assimilatory sulfate reduction to trigeminal neuralgia with a mediation proportion of 27.90% (P = 0.041).

CONCLUSION

This study identified the causal relationships between several specific gut microbiota and various neuropathic pain subtypes. Additionally, two immune cells may act as potential mediators in the pathways from gut microbiota to neuropathic pain.

Beneficial Effects of Ginger Root Extract on Pain Behaviors, Inflammation, and Mitochondrial Function in the Colon and Different Brain Regions of Male and Female Neuropathic Rats: A Gut-Brain Axis Study

BACKGROUND

Neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction have been implicated in the progression of neuropathic pain (NP) but can be mitigated by supplementation with gingerol-enriched ginger (GEG). However, the exact benefits of GEG for each sex in treating neuroinflammation and mitochondrial homeostasis in different brain regions and the colon remain to be determined.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the effects of GEG on emotional/affective pain and spontaneous pain behaviors, neuroinflammation, as well as mitochondria homeostasis in the amygdala, frontal cortex, hippocampus, and colon of male and female rats in the spinal nerve ligation (SNL) NP model.

METHODS

One hundred rats (fifty males and fifty females) were randomly assigned to five groups: sham + vehicle, SNL + vehicle, and SNL with three different GEG doses (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg BW) for 5 weeks. A rat grimace scale and vocalizations were used to assess spontaneous and emotional/affective pain behaviors, respectively. mRNA gene and protein expression levels for tight junction protein, neuroinflammation, mitochondria homeostasis, and oxidative stress were measured in the amygdala, frontal cortex, hippocampus, and colon using qRT-PCR and Western blot (colon).

RESULTS

GEG supplementation mitigated spontaneous pain in both male and female rats with NP while decreasing emotional/affective responses only in male NP rats. GEG supplementation increased intestinal integrity (claudin 3) and suppressed neuroinflammation [glial activation (GFAP, CD11b, IBA1) and inflammation (TNFα, NFκB, IL1β)] in the selected brain regions and colon of male and female NP rats. GEG supplementation improved mitochondrial homeostasis [increased biogenesis (TFAM, PGC1α), increased fission (FIS, DRP1), decreased fusion (MFN2, MFN1) and mitophagy (PINK1), and increased Complex III] in the selected brain regions and colon in both sexes. Some GEG dose-response effects in gene expression were observed in NP rats of both sexes.

CONCLUSIONS

GEG supplementation decreased emotional/affective pain behaviors of males and females via improving gut integrity, suppressing neuroinflammation, and improving mitochondrial homeostasis in the amygdala, frontal cortex, hippocampus, and colon in both male and female SNL rats in an NP model, implicating the gut-brain axis in NP. Sex differences observed in the vocalizations assay may suggest different mechanisms of evoked NP responses in females.

The dose-dependent mechanism behind the protective effect of lentinan against acute alcoholic liver injury via proliferating intestinal probiotics

Acute alcoholic liver injury (AALI) is a widespread disease that can develop into hepatitis, liver fibrosis, and cirrhosis. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening, while drug treatment presents various side effects. This study characterized the structure of natural lentinan (LNT) from the Qinba Mountain area and investigated the protective mechanism of different LNT doses (100 mg kg-1, 200 mg kg-1, and 400 mg kg-1) on AALI. The results showed that LNT was a glucose-dominated pyran polysaccharide with a triple-helical structure and a molecular weight (Mw) of 7.56 × 106 Da. An AALI mouse model showed that all the LNT doses protected liver function, reduced hepatic steatosis, alleviated oxidative stress and inflammatory response, and stimulated probiotic proliferation. Low-dose LNT increased anti-oxidant-associated beneficial bacteria, medium-dose LNT improved liver swelling and promoted anti-oxidant-associated probiotics, and high-dose LNT increased the probiotics that helped protect liver function and anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. All the LNT doses inhibited pathogenic growth, including Oscillospiraceae, Weeksellaceae, Streptococcaceae, Akkermansiaceae, Morganellaceae, and Proteus. These results indicated that the protective effect of LNT against AALI was mediated by the proliferation of various intestinal probiotics and was related to the consumption doses. These findings offer new strategies for comprehensively utilizing Lentinula edodes from the Qinba Mountain area and preventing AALI using natural food-based substances.

A comprehensive review of traditional Chinese medicine in treating neuropathic pain

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a common, intractable chronic pain caused by nerve dysfunction and primary lesion of the nervous system. The etiology and pathogenesis of NP have not yet been clarified, so there is a lack of precise and effective clinical treatments. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has shown increasing advantages in alleviating NP. Our review aimed to define the therapeutic effect of TCM (including TCM prescriptions, TCM extracts and natural products from TCM) on NP and reveal the underlying mechanisms. Literature from 2018 to 2024 was collected from databases including Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google academic and CNKI databases. Herbal medicine, Traditional Chinese medicines (TCM), neuropathic pain, neuralgia and peripheral neuropathy were used as the search terms. The anti-NP activity of TCM is clarified to propose strategies for discovering active compounds against NP, and provide reference to screen anti-NP drugs from TCM. We concluded that TCM has the characteristics of multi-level, multi-component, multi-target and multi-pathway, which can alleviate NP through various pathways such as anti-inflammation, anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic pathway, regulating autophagy, regulating intestinal flora, and influencing ion channels. Based on the experimental study and anti-NP mechanism of TCM, this paper can offer analytical evidence to support the effectiveness in treating NP. These references will be helpful to the research and development of innovative TCM with multiple levels and multiple targets. TCM can be an effective treatment for NP and can serve as a treasure house for new drug development.

Danggui Sini Decoction normalizes the intestinal microbiota and serum metabolite levels to treat sciatica

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Danggui Sini Decoction (DGSD), which is commonly used to treat sciatica, has been shown to have an analgesic effect, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Here, Danggui Sini Decoction was shown to normalize the intestinal microbiota and serum metabolite levels to exert an analgesic effect.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to elucidate the therapeutic effects of DGSD on sciatica and the underlying mechanisms involved.

METHODS

In this study, we conducted chronic constriction injury (CCI) model. Mecobalamin and DGSD were administered to CCI rats. Behavioural tests were used to examine the therapeutic effects of the drugs. UHPLC was used to identify DGSD components. 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis of the intestinal flora was used to analyse the effect of DGSD on the intestinal microbiota. UHPLC‒MS/MS was used to identify blood metabolites. KEGG pathway analysis of differentially abundant metabolites was subsequently conducted. ELISA was used to measure the serum inflammatory factor levels, and correlation analysis between the serum inflammatory factor levels and intestinal microbe abundance was conducted. PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemical staining were used to validate the results of the KEGG pathway analysis.

RESULTS

After CCI, the rats exhibited obvious thermal hyperalgesia; disruption of sciatic nerve structure; increased IL1α, SP, CCL5, and PGE2 levels; decreased IL10 levels in the blood; increased IL1β, IL6, COX2, MMP9, nNOS, and p-NF-κB levels; and decreased IL4 levels in the sciatic nerve. In addition, CCI led to increased abundances of Peptostreptococcaceae, Leuconostocaceae, Christensenellaceae, Akkermansiaceae, Staphylococcaceae, Romboutsia, Marvinbryantia, Turicibacter, Weissella, UCG-005, Christensenellaceae_R-7_group, Akkermansia, Staphylococcus, Romboutsia_ilealis, Weissella_paramesenteroides, and Akkermansia_muciniphila and decreased abundances of Lactobacillaceae, Lactobacillus, Lactobacillus_murinus, and Lactobacillus_johnsonii. Correlation analysis indicated that Turicibacter abundance was most strongly related to IL1α, PGE2, IL10, and CCL5 levels, while norank_o_Coriobacteriales abundance had the weakest relationship with SP levels. KEGG pathway analysis of the differentially abundant metabolites revealed that the 'NF-kappa B signalling pathway' was involved in sciatica. DGSD reduced the levels of inflammatory factors, including IL1α, SP, CCL5, PGE2, IL6, COX2, and MMP9, in the blood and sciatic nerve and inhibited nNOS and NF-κB phosphorylation. DGSD improved the abundance of probiotics, including Lactobacillus and Blautia, and lowered the abundance of harmful bacteria, including Romboutsia, Turicibacter, and Weissella. DGSD promoted the repair of the injured sciatic nerve.

CONCLUSIONS

DGSD can treat sciatica by inhibiting intestinal microbiota disorders induced by CCI in rats, normalizing inflammatory factor levels, and promoting nerve repair.

6-gingerol and its derivatives inhibit Helicobacter pylori-induced gastric mucosal inflammation and improve gastrin and somatostatin secretion

The resistance of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) has increased in recent years, prompting a trend in the research and development of new drugs. In our study, three derivatives (JF-1, JF-2, and JF-3) were synthesized using 6-gingerol as the main component, while JF-4, containing both 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol as the main components, was extracted from dried ginger. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), determined using the ratio dilution method, were 80 μg/mL for JF-1, 40 μg/mL for JF-2, 30 μg/mL for JF-3, 40 μg/mL for JF-4, 60 μg/mL for 6-gingerol standard (SS), and 0.03 μg/mL for amoxicillin (AMX). After treating H. pylori-infected mice, the inflammation of the gastric mucosa was suppressed. The eradication rate of H. pylori was 16.7% of JF-3 low-dose treatment (LDT), 25.0% of JF-3 high-dose treatment (HDT), 16.7% of JF-4 LDT, 16.7% of JF-4 HDT, 30% of SS LDT, 50% of SS HDT, and 36.4% of the positive control group (PCG). The levels of gastrin, somatostatin (SST), IFN-γ, IL-4, and IL-8 were significantly recovered in the JF-3 and JF-4 administration groups, but the effect was stronger in the high-dose group. These results demonstrate that 6-gingerol and its derivatives have significant anti-Helicobacter pylori effects and are promising potential treatments for H. pylori infection.

Comparative pharmacokinetics of multi-components in normal and stomach cold syndrome rats after oral administration of Zingiberis Rhizoma - Jujubae Fructus herb pair and its single herb extracts by UHPLC-MS/MS

The Zingiberis Rhizoma - Jujubae Fructus herb pair (ZJHP) is a classic herb pair in traditional Chinese medicine. The herb pair shows the effect of dispelling cold, harmonizing the middle and improving gastrointestinal function, and is widely used for patients with stomach cold syndrome (SCS), stomachache and anemofrigid cold. The gingerols, shogaols, flavonoids and triterpenic acids are the important bioactive ingredients of ZJHP. However, few pharmacokinetic studies have been investigated in vivo for the above compounds. To comprehend the kinetics of active components and promote their curative application, a fast and sensitive ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was established for simultaneous determination of 12 analytes in normal and SCS rats in this study. The results showed that the pharmacokinetic parameters (Cmax, Tmax, t1/2z, MRT0-t, AUC0-t and AUC0-∞) in SCS model were significantly different from those in normal rats. In addition, the pharmacokinetics of rats given ZJHP were also varied from single herb oral administration, especially in model condition. These results indicated that the in vivo processes of the above analytes changed under pathological conditions and the compatibility of the herb pair could significantly influence the absorption of active components, which might provide an insight and further supports for the clinical application of ZJHP.

From ancient wisdom to modern science: Gut microbiota sheds light on property theory of traditional Chinese medicine

The property theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been practiced for thousands of years, playing a pivotal role in the clinical application of TCM. While advancements in energy metabolism, chemical composition analysis, machine learning, ion current modeling, and supercritical fluid technology have provided valuable insight into how aspects of TCM property theory may be measured, these studies only capture specific aspects of TCM property theory in isolation, overlooking the holistic perspective inherent in TCM. To systematically investigate the modern interpretation of the TCM property theory from multidimensional perspectives, we consulted the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2020 edition) to compile a list of Chinese materia medica (CMM). Then, using the Latin names of each CMM and gut microbiota as keywords, we searched the PubMed database for relevant research on gut microbiota and CMM. The regulatory patterns of different herbs on gut microbiota were then summarized from the perspectives of the four natures, the five flavors and the meridian tropism. In terms of the four natures, we found that warm-natured medicines promoted the colonization of specific beneficial bacteria, while cold-natured medicines boosted populations of some beneficial bacteria while suppressing pathogenic bacteria. Analysis of the five flavors revealed that sweet-flavored and bitter-flavored CMMs positively influenced beneficial bacteria while inhibiting harmful bacteria. CMMs with different meridian tropism exhibited complex modulative patterns on gut microbiota, with Jueyin (Liver) and Taiyin (Lung) meridian CMMs generally exerting a stronger effect. The gut microbiota may be a biological indicator for characterizing the TCM property theory, which not only enhances our understanding of classic TCM theory but also contributes to its scientific advancement and application in healthcare. Please cite this article as: Yang YN, Zhan JG, Cao Y, Wu CM. From ancient wisdom to modern science: Gut microbiota sheds light on property theory of traditional Chinese medicine. J Integr Med 2024; 22(4): 413-445.

Causal relationship between gut microbiota and functional outcomes after ischemic stroke: A comprehensive Mendelian randomization study

AIMS

To investigate the association of the genetic predisposition of specific gut microbiotas with the clinical outcome of ischemic stroke.

METHODS

We leveraged publicly available genome-wide association study (GWAS) data to perform Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. The gut microbiota-related GWAS data from 18,340 individuals from the international consortium MiBioGen was used. The summary data for functional outcomes after ischemic stroke was obtained from the Genetics of Ischemic Stroke Functional Outcome (GISCOME) network meta-analysis. The primary outcomes were judged by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). The principal analyses were conducted using the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) MR method. The Cochran's Q test, weighted median, MR-Egger regression, leave-one-SNP-out analysis, MR-Pleiotropy Residual Sum, and Outlier methods were adopted as sensitivity analyses. Furthermore, we performed bi-directional MR analysis and the MR Steiger directionality test to examine the direction of the causal relations.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that the genetic predisposition of genus Lactococcus, genus Ruminococcaceae NK4A214 group, family Peptostreptococcaceae, and genus Odoribacter was positively associated with favorable functional outcome after ischemic stroke. Genus Collinsella, genus Ruminococcaceae UCG005, genus Akkermansia, genus Eubacterium oxidoreducens group, and family Verrucomicrobiaceae were identified to be associated with worse functional outcomes after ischemic stroke. Our results showed no evidence of heterogeneity, directional pleiotropic effects, or collider bias, and the sensitivity of our analysis was acceptable.

CONCLUSION

The genetic predisposition of different gut microbiotas was associated with the clinical outcome of ischemic stroke. Microbiota adjustment was a promising method to improve the clinical outcome of ischemic stroke.

Ginger Polyphenols Reverse Molecular Signature of Amygdala Neuroimmune Signaling and Modulate Microbiome in Male Rats with Neuropathic Pain: Evidence for Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis

Emerging evidence shows that the gut microbiota plays an important role in neuropathic pain (NP) via the gut-brain axis. Male rats were divided into sham, spinal nerve ligation (SNL), SNL + 200 mg GEG/kg BW (GEG200), and SNL + 600 mg GEG/kg BW (GEG600) for 5 weeks. The dosages of 200 and 600 mg GEG/kg BW for rats correspond to 45 g and 135 g raw ginger for human daily consumption, respectively. Both GEG groups mitigated SNL-induced NP behavior. GEG-supplemented animals had a decreased abundance of Rikenella, Muribaculaceae, Clostridia UCG-014, Mucispirillum schaedleri, RF39, Acetatifactor, and Clostridia UCG-009, while they had an increased abundance of Flavonifactor, Hungatella, Anaerofustis stercorihominis, and Clostridium innocuum group. Relative to sham rats, Fos and Gadd45g genes were upregulated, while Igf1, Ccl2, Hadc2, Rtn4rl1, Nfkb2, Gpr84, Pik3cg, and Abcc8 genes were downregulated in SNL rats. Compared to the SNL group, the GEG200 group and GEG600 group had increases/decreases in 16 (10/6) genes and 11 (1/10) genes, respectively. GEG downregulated Fos and Gadd45g genes and upregulated Hdac2 genes in the amygdala. In summary, GEG alleviates NP by modulating the gut microbiome and reversing a molecular neuroimmune signature.

Mulberry Leaf Dietary Supplementation Can Improve the Lipo-Nutritional Quality of Pork and Regulate Gut Microbiota in Pigs: A Comprehensive Multi-Omics Analysis

Mulberry leaves, a common traditional Chinese medicine, represent a potential nutritional strategy to improve the fat profile, also known as the lipo-nutrition, of pork. However, the effects of mulberry leaves on pork lipo-nutrition and the microorganisms and metabolites in the porcine gut remain unclear. In this study, multi-omics analysis was employed in a Yuxi black pig animal model to explore the possible regulatory mechanism of mulberry leaves on pork quality. Sixty Yuxi black pigs were divided into two groups: the control group (n = 15) was fed a standard diet, and the experimental group (n = 45) was fed a diet supplemented with 8% mulberry leaves. Experiments were performed in three replicates (n = 15 per replicate); the two diets were ensured to be nutritionally balanced, and the feeding period was 120 days. The results showed that pigs receiving the diet supplemented with mulberry leaves had significantly reduced backfat thickness (p < 0.05) and increased intramuscular fat (IMF) content (p < 0.05) compared with pigs receiving the standard diet. Lipidomics analysis showed that mulberry leaves improved the lipid profile composition and increased the proportion of triglycerides (TGs). Interestingly, the IMF content was positively correlated with acyl C18:2 and negatively correlated with C18:1 of differential TGs. In addition, the cecal microbiological analysis showed that mulberry leaves could increase the abundance of bacteria such as UCG-005, Muribaculaceae_norank, Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group, and Limosilactobacillus. Simultaneously, the relative levels of L-tyrosine-ethyl ester, oleic acid methyl ester, 21-deoxycortisol, N-acetyldihydrosphingosine, and mulberrin were increased. Furthermore, we found that mulberry leaf supplementation significantly increased the mRNA expression of lipoprotein lipase, fatty acid-binding protein 4, and peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor γ in muscle (p < 0.01). Mulberry leaf supplementation significantly increased the mRNA expression of diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (p < 0.05) while significantly decreasing the expression of acetyl CoA carboxylase in backfat (p < 0.05). Furthermore, mulberry leaf supplementation significantly upregulated the mRNA expression of hormone-sensitive triglyceride lipase and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (p < 0.05) in backfat. In addition, mulberry leaf supplementation led to increased serum leptin and adiponectin (p < 0.01). Collectively, this omic profile is consistent with an increased ratio of IMF to backfat in the pig model.

Ginger alleviates mechanical hypersensitivity and anxio-depressive behavior in rats with diabetic neuropathy through beneficial actions on gut microbiome composition, mitochondria, and neuroimmune cells of colon and spinal cord

The relationship among gut microbiota, mitochondrial dysfunction/neuroinflammation, and diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) has received increased attention. Ginger has antidiabetic and analgesic effects because of its anti-inflammatory property. We examined the effects of gingerols-enriched ginger (GEG) supplementation on pain-associated behaviors, gut microbiome composition, and mitochondrial function and neuroinflammation of colon and spinal cord in DNP rats. Thirty-three male rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: control group, DNP group (high-fat diet plus single dose of streptozotocin at 35 mg/kg body weight, and GEG group (DNP+GEG at 0.75% in the diet for 8 weeks). Von Frey and open field tests were used to assess pain sensitivity and anxio-depressive behaviors, respectively. Colon and spinal cord were collected for gene expression analysis. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was done from cecal samples and microbiome data analysis was performed using QIIME 2. GEG supplementation mitigated mechanical hypersensitivity and anxio-depressive behavior in DNP animals. GEG supplementation suppressed the dynamin-related protein 1 protein expression (colon) and gene expression (spinal cord), astrocytic marker GFAP gene expression (colon and spinal cord), and tumor necrosis factor-α gene expression (colon, P < .05; spinal cord, P = .0974) in DNP rats. GEG supplementation increased microglia/macrophage marker CD11b gene expression in colon and spinal cord of DNP rats. GEG treatment increased abundance of Acinetobacter, Azospirillum, Colidextribacter, and Fournierella but decreased abundance of Muribaculum intestinale in cecal feces of rats. This study demonstrates that GEG supplementation decreased pain, anxio-depression, and neuroimmune cells, and improved the composition of gut microbiomes and mitochondrial function in rats with diabetic neuropathy.

A neutral polysaccharide from Persicaria hydropiper (L.) Spach ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced intestinal barrier injury via regulating the gut microbiota and modulating AKT/PI3K/mTOR and MAPK signaling pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Persicaria hydropiper (L.) Spach, a herb that is prevalent across Asia and Europe, finds utility as both a culinary ingredient and medicinal herb. In China, P. hydropiper decoction is commonly employed to alleviate dysentery, gastroenteritis, and diarrhea symptoms.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To assess the effects of a neutral polysaccharide from P. hydropiper (PHP) on the intestinal barrier (IB) injury induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice, and elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PHP was extracted from dried P. hydropiper herb using hot water extraction, followed by ethanol precipitation. The extract underwent successive isolation and purification steps involving anion-exchange and gel filtration chromatography. The primary structure of PHP was determined using Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy, ion chromatography, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Male BALB/c mice were randomly assigned to control (CON), model (MOD), berberine hydrochloride (BBR), and PHP (20, 40 and 80 mg/kg) groups. Histopathological changes in jejunal tissues were assessed through hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. The expression levels of proteins and genes involved in AKT/PI3K/mTOR and MAPK signaling pathways were evaluated using qRT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively. The composition and abundance of the gut microbiota in mice were analyzed using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Additionally, the concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were determined using GC-MS.

RESULTS

The main components of PHP included arabinose, galactose, and glucose (molar ratio = 1.00:5.52:11.39). The backbone of PHP consisted of →4)-Glcp-(1→, →4,6)-Glcp-(1→, →4)-Galp-(1→, →4,6)-Galp-(1→. The branched chains primarily consisted of 5)-Araf-(1→ residues, which were attached to the backbone through →6)-Glcp-(1→ and →6)-Galp-(1→ at the 6-position. Histological analysis demonstrated that PHP exhibited a mitigating effect on intestinal damage induced by LPS. PHP could markedly reduce the mRNA levels of PI3K, AKT, mTOR, p70 S6K, Ras, Raf1, MEK1/2, p38, ERK1/2, and JNK, while downregulating the protein levels of p-mTOR, p-PI3K, p-AKT, p-p38, p-ERK, and p-JNK. PHP also modulated the diversities and abundances of the gut microbiota, resulting in an increase in the abundances of Lactobacillaceae, Anaerovoracaceae, Lachnospiraceae, Eggerthellaceae, and Desulfovibrionaceae and a decrease in the abundances of Muribaculaceae, Prevotellaceae, and Rikenellaceae. Additionally, PHP significantly increased the content of various SCFAs.

CONCLUSION

PHP emerges as a pivotal factor in the repair of IB injury by virtue of its ability to regulate the gut microbiota, elevate SCFA levels, and inhibit the MAPK and AKT/PI3K/mTOR pathways. It is worth noting that the therapeutic effect of high-dose PHP was remarkably significant, surpassing even the positive control of berberine hydrochloride.

Gut microbiota dysbiosis alters chronic pain behaviors in a humanized transgenic mouse model of sickle cell disease

ABSTRACT

Pain is the most common symptom experienced by patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) throughout their lives and is the main cause of hospitalization. Despite the progress that has been made towards understanding the disease pathophysiology, major gaps remain in the knowledge of SCD pain, the transition to chronic pain, and effective pain management. Recent evidence has demonstrated a vital role of gut microbiota in pathophysiological features of SCD. However, the role of gut microbiota in SCD pain is yet to be explored. We sought to evaluate the compositional differences in the gut microbiota of transgenic mice with SCD and nonsickle control mice and investigate the role of gut microbiota in SCD pain by using antibiotic-mediated gut microbiota depletion and fecal material transplantation (FMT). The antibiotic-mediated gut microbiota depletion did not affect evoked pain but significantly attenuated ongoing spontaneous pain in mice with SCD. Fecal material transplantation from mice with SCD to wild-type mice resulted in tactile allodynia (0.95 ± 0.17 g vs 0.08 ± 0.02 g, von Frey test, P < 0.001), heat hyperalgesia (15.10 ± 0.79 seconds vs 8.68 ± 1.17 seconds, radiant heat, P < 0.01), cold allodynia (2.75 ± 0.26 seconds vs 1.68 ± 0.08 seconds, dry ice test, P < 0.01), and anxiety-like behaviors (Elevated Plus Maze Test, Open Field Test). On the contrary, reshaping gut microbiota of mice with SCD with FMT from WT mice resulted in reduced tactile allodynia (0.05 ± 0.01 g vs 0.25 ± 0.03 g, P < 0.001), heat hyperalgesia (5.89 ± 0.67 seconds vs 12.25 ± 0.76 seconds, P < 0.001), and anxiety-like behaviors. These findings provide insights into the relationship between gut microbiota dysbiosis and pain in SCD, highlighting the importance of gut microbial communities that may serve as potential targets for novel pain interventions.

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Modulates Gut Microbiome Composition and Glial Signaling in Brain and Colon of Rats with Neuropathic Pain: Evidence for Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis

Despite evidence linking the gut microbiome to neuropathic pain (NP), it is not known if altering gut microbiota can alleviate NP via the microbiome-gut-brain axis. This study examined if healthy gut microbiota of sham male rats (Sham+V) and dysbiotic gut microbiota of NP rats (spinal nerve ligation: NP, SNL+V) can be disrupted and restored, respectively, via fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) from the opposite group [Sham+(SNL-FMT) and SNL+(Sham-FMT), respectively]. All groups received FMT daily for two weeks, followed by three weeks without FMT. SNL rats showed higher mechanical hypersensitivity [SNL+V vs. Sham+V] throughout the study. After two weeks, the FMT of healthy gut microbiota decreased mechanical hypersensitivity in SNL rats [SNL+(Sham-FMT) vs. SNL+V]. A temporal shift in microbiome profiles after 2-week FMT treatment was observed in Sham+(SNL-FMT) and SNL+(Sham-FMT) groups, while the microbiome profile shifted back a certain extent after FMT ceased. At the end of study, the Sham+(SNL-FMT) group acquired low abundance of UCG-001, Odoribacter, and Peptococcaceae, and high abundance of UBA1819 and Victivallis. The SNL+(Sham-FMT) group maintained high abundance of Butyricimonas and Escherichia-Shigella. The SNL+(Sham-FMT) group had altered glial and macrophage activation/inflammation markers in the brain/colon than the SNL+V group. Relative to the SNL+V group, the SNL+(Sham-FMT) group had significantly lower gene expressions of GFAP (hypothalamus), IBA-1 (colon), and NF-κB (amygdala/colon), but higher gene expressions of complex I (amygdala/hypothalamus) and claudin-3 (amygdala/hypothalamus/colon). In conclusion, FMT containing healthy microbiota given to SNL rats attenuates mechanical hypersensitivity, modulates microbiota composition, and mitigates downstream glial activation/inflammation markers in a NP model.

Intestinal flora, intestinal metabolism, and intestinal immunity changes in complete Freud's adjuvant-rheumatoid arthritis C57BL/6 mice

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory-mediated autoimmune disease characterized by persistent joint enlargement, synovial cartilage damage, and inflammatory infiltrates. Although the pathogenesis and treatment of RA are still currently insufficient, the importance of the intestine flora, metabolism and immunity for RA has been gradually recognized, and many intestine regulatory strategies have been used to treat RA. However, the relationship between RA and intestine flora, metabolism and immunity has not been fully expounded. In this study, Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) was used to establish RA model, CyTOF technology was used to study the changes of intestinal immune cell types, 16S rRNA technology was used to analyze the differences of intestinal flora, and LC-MS technology was used to explain the effects of metabolites produced by the changed intestinal flora on RA. Moreover, we systematically explored how the imbalance of intestinal flora changed the intestinal immune status through its metabolites in RA mice. Our results showed that the intestinal flora of RA mice changed significantly, and the bacteria producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), indole classes and secondary bile acids were significantly reduced. The abundance of SCFAs, indole classes and secondary bile acids in the intestine were significantly decreased. The balance of immune cells in the intestine of RA mice was significantly disrupted, with an overall decrease in immune cells. This work reveals the possible relationship between intestinal flora, metabolism and immunity and RA in mice, which will provide new therapeutic strategies for RA.

[6]-Shogaol and [6]-Gingerol active ingredients may improve neuropathic pain by suppressing cytokine levels in an experimental model

Background/aim

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a type of chronic pain usually caused by damage to the somatosensory system. Bioactive antioxidant compounds, such as curcumin and ginger, are widely preferred in the treatment of NP. However, the ingredient-based mechanism that underlies their pain-relieving activity remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of trans-[6]-Shogaol and [6]-Gingerol active ingredients of the Zingiber officinale Roscoe extract on the spinal cord and cortex in the neuroinflammatory pathway in rats with experimental sciatic nerve injury.

Materials and methods

Forty-six volatile phenolic components were identified in ginger samples using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Thirty 3-month-old male 250-300 g Wistar Albino rats were divided into three groups as (i) sham, (ii) chronic constriction injury (CCI), and (iii) CCI+ginger. NP was induced using the CCI model. A ginger extract treatment enriched with trans-[6]-shogaol and [6]-gingerol active ingredients was administered by gavage at 200 mg/kg/day for 7 days. On the 14th day of the experiment, locomotor activity was evaluated in open field and hyperalgesia in tail flick tests.

Results

In behavioural experiments, a significant decrease was observed in the CCI group compared to the sham group, while a significant increase was observed in the CCI+ginger group compared to the CCI group (p < 0.05). In the spinal cord and cortex tissues, there was a significant increase in the TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-18 neuroinflammation results of the CCI group compared to the sham group, while there was a significant decrease in the CCI+ginger group compared to the CCI group.

Conclusion

In this study, ginger treatment was shown to have a therapeutic effect on neuroinflammation against sciatic nerve damage.

Turmeric Bioactive Compounds Alleviate Spinal Nerve Ligation-Induced Neuropathic Pain by Suppressing Glial Activation and Improving Mitochondrial Function in Spinal Cord and Amygdala

This study examined the effects of turmeric bioactive compounds, curcumin C3 complex® (CUR) and bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC), on mechanical hypersensitivity and the gene expression of markers for glial activation, mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress in the spinal cord and amygdala of rats with neuropathic pain (NP). Twenty-four animals were randomly assigned to four groups: sham, spinal nerve ligation (SNL, an NP model), SNL+100 mg CUR/kg BW p.o., and SNL+50 mg BDMC/kg BW p.o. for 4 weeks. Mechanical hypersensitivity was assessed by the von Frey test (VFT) weekly. The lumbosacral section of the spinal cord and the right amygdala (central nucleus) were collected to determine the mRNA expression of genes (IBA-1, CD11b, GFAP, MFN1, DRP1, FIS1, PGC1α, PINK, Complex I, TLR4, and SOD1) utilizing qRT-PCR. Increased mechanical hypersensitivity and increased gene expression of markers for microglial activation (IBA-1 in the amygdala and CD11b in the spinal cord), astrocyte activation (GFAP in the spinal cord), mitochondrial dysfunction (PGC1α in the amygdala), and oxidative stress (TLR4 in the spinal cord and amygdala) were found in untreated SNL rats. Oral administration of CUR and BDMC significantly decreased mechanical hypersensitivity. CUR decreased CD11b and GFAP gene expression in the spinal cord. BDMC decreased IBA-1 in the spinal cord and amygdala as well as CD11b and GFAP in the spinal cord. Both CUR and BDMC reduced PGC1α gene expression in the amygdala, PINK1 gene expression in the spinal cord, and TLR4 in the spinal cord and amygdala, while they increased Complex I and SOD1 gene expression in the spinal cord. CUR and BDMC administration decreased mechanical hypersensitivity in NP by mitigating glial activation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) flour modulates the intestinal microbiota in Wistar rats fed a high-fat and high-fructose diet

A diet rich in sugar and fat can promote metabolic disorders development, especially in the intestine. Chia flour (Salvia hispanica. L) is a source of dietary fiber, alpha-linolenic fatty acid (ALA), bioactive peptides, and phenolics, promoting health benefits. This study aimed to analyze chia flour's effect on gut microbiota modulation and intestinal health in adult male Wistar rats fed a high-fat and high-fructose (HFHF) diet. Male Wistar rats (n = 10/group) were fed the diets standard (AIN-93M) or HFHF (31% saturated fat and 20% fructose) in the first phase to induce metabolic disorders. In the second phase, the rats were fed AIN-93M, HFHF, or HFHF plus 14.7% chia flour (HFHF + CF) for 10 weeks. The consumption of chia flour increased the ALA (3.24 ± 0.24) intake and significantly improved immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels (1126.00 ± 145.90), goblet cells number (24.57 ± 2.76), crypt thickness (34.37 ± 5.86), crypt depth (215.30 ± 23.19), the longitudinal muscle layer (48.11 ± 5.04), cecum weight (4.39 ± 0.71), Shannon index (p < 0.05), and significantly increased the production of acetic (20.56 ± 4.10) and butyric acids (5.96 ± 1.50), Monoglobus sp., Lachnospiraceae sp., and Prevotellaceae sp. abundance. Furthermore, chia significantly reduced the cecal pH content (7.54 ± 1.17), body mass index (0.62 ± 0.03) and weight (411.00 ± 28.58), and Simpson index (p < 0.05). Therefore, chia intake improved intestinal health parameters and functionality in rats with metabolic disorders, which demonstrates to be an effective strategy for gut microbiota modulation.

Sea Cucumber Peptide Alleviates Ulcerative Colitis Induced by Dextran Sulfate Sodium by Alleviating Gut Microbiota Imbalance and Regulating miR-155/SOCS1 Axis in Mice

Sea cucumber peptides have been proven to exhibit a variety of biological activities. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic disease characterized by diffuse inflammation of the mucosa of the rectum and colon with increasing incidence and long duration, and is difficult to cure. The effect of sea cucumber peptide on UC is currently unknown. In this study, 1.5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) was added to the drinking water of mice to induce a UC model, and the daily doses of sea cucumber peptide (SP) solution of 200 mg/kg·BW, 500 mg/kg·BW, and 1000 mg/kg·BW were given to UC mice to detect the relieving effect of SP. The results showed that SP can reduce the disease activity index (DAI) of UC mice induced by DSS and can alleviate colon shortening, intestinal tissue damage, and the loss of intestinal tight junction proteins (Claudin-1, Occludin). SP decreased the spleen index, pro-inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels in UC mice. SP can alleviate the imbalance of gut microbiota in UC mice, increase the abundance of the Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group, Prevotellaceae UCG-001, and Ligilactobacillus, and reduce the abundance of Bacteroides and the Eubacterium rum group, as well as alleviating the decrease in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) content in the feces of UC mice. Notably, SP inhibited miR-155 expression in the colon tissue of UC mice and increased its target protein, suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1), which acts as an inflammatory inhibitor. In summary, the ameliorative effect of SP on UC may be achieved by improving the imbalance of gut microbiota and regulating the miR-155/SOCS1 axis. This study provides a new idea for developing SP as a nutritional supplement to maintain intestinal health.

Evaluation of dynamic effects of dietary medium-chain monoglycerides on performance, intestinal development and gut microbiota of broilers in large-scale production

Medium-chain monoglycerides (MG) have been reported to affect the productive performance, gut microbiota and health of broiler chickens reared in ideal experimental conditions at home and abroad. However, the effects of MG on performance, intestinal development and gut microbiota of chickens in large-scale farms during different feed stages remain unknown. The present study was conducted on a modern farm with a total of 12,000 yellow feathered broiler chicks that were randomly allotted to 2 groups (1000 chicks/replicate, 6 replicates/group) for a 70-day trial. The control group (CON group) received a basal diet, and the treated group (MG group) was fed a basal diet containing 300 mg/kg mixed MG. The results revealed that dietary MG significantly (P < 0.05) increased the body weight and average feed intake, but notably reduced the feed conversion and mortality of chickens in large-scale production during the starter phase. The villus height of the duodenum in the MG group at 1, 2 and 7 wk of age increased notably, and the villus height to crypt depth ratio at 1, 2, 5 and 10 wk of age was improved. Dietary MG decreased the serum insulin content of chickens at 5, 7 and 10 wk of age, and decreased the serum lipopolysaccharide at 3 and 7 wk of age. The triglyceride level of chickens at 3, 5 and 10 wk of age and the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level of chickens at 7 and 10 wk of age in the MG group decreased notably, while the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased significantly. Moreover, MG supplementation selectively increased the relative abundance of genus Bacteroides (family Bacteroidaceae) and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, but decreased the content of genus Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, Collinsella and family Barnesiellaceae in the cecum of chickens at 3, 7 and 10 wk of age. Conclusively, these findings showed that dietary MG notably enhanced chicken performance, health and feed nutrient utilization at early ages by regulating gut microbiota, intestinal development and serum biochemical indices.

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Alleviated Paclitaxel-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy by Interfering with Astrocytes and TLR4/p38MAPK Pathway in Rats

Purpose

Paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) constitutes a refractory and progressive adverse consequence of paclitaxel treatment, causing pain and sensory anomalies in cancer survivors. Although the gut-brain axis is involved in multiple disorders including cancer, its impact on peripheral pain conditions remains elusive. Thus, we assessed the importance of gut microbiota and related mechanisms in PIPN.

Methods

By implementing fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in a rat PIPN model (ie, rats treated with paclitaxel; hereafter as PIPN rats), we explored the effect of gut microbiota on PIPN rats using multiple methods, including different behavioral tests, 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequencing, and biochemical techniques.

Results

Sequencing of 16S rDNA revealed that the abundance of genera Bacteroides and UCG-005 increased, while that of genera Turicibacter, Clostridium sensu stricto 1 and Corynebacterium decreased in the PIPN rats. However, when treated with FMT using fecal from normal rats, the mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in PIPN rats were significantly alleviated. In addition, FMT treatment reduced the expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), phospho-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p-p38MAPK), and the astrocytic marker glial fibrillary acidic protein in the colon and spinal dorsal horn. TAK242 (a TLR4 inhibitor) significantly alleviated the behavioral hypersensitivity of PIPN rats and inhibited the TLR4/p38MAPK pathway in astrocytes in these rats.

Conclusion

The gut microbiota played a critical role in PIPN. Future therapies treating PIPN should consider microbe-based treatment as an option.

Fructus gardeniae ameliorates anxiety-like behaviors induced by sleep deprivation via regulating hippocampal metabolomics and gut microbiota

Fructus gardeniae (FG) is a traditional Chinese medicine and health food for thousands of years of application throughout Chinese history and is still widely used in clinical Chinese medicine. FG has a beneficial impact on anxiety, depression, insomnia, and psychiatric disorders; however, its mechanism of action requires further investigation. This study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of FG on sleep deprivation (SD)-induced anxiety-like behavior in rats. A model of SD-induced anxiety-like behavior in rats was established by intraperitoneal injection of p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA). This was accompanied by neuroinflammation and metabolic abnormalities in the hippocampus and disturbance of intestinal microbiota. However reduced SD-induced anxiety-like behavior and decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-1β were observed in the hippocampus of rats after 7 days of FG intervention. In addition, metabolomic analysis demonstrated that FG was able to modulate levels of phosphatidylserine 18, Phosphatidylinositol 18, sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, deoxyguanylic acid, xylose, betaine and other metabolites in the hippocampus. The main metabolic pathways of hippocampal metabolites after FG intervention involve carbon metabolism, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, pentose phosphate, and glycerophospholipid metabolism. 16S rRNA sequencing illustrated that FG ameliorated the dysbiosis of gut microbiota in anxious rats, mainly increased the abundance of Muribaculaceae and Lactobacillus, and decreased the abundance of Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group. In addition, the correlation analysis demonstrated that there was a close relationship between hippocampal metabolites and intestinal microbiota. In conclusion, FG improved the anxiety behavior and inhibited of neuroinflammation in sleep-deprived rats, and the mechanism may be related to the FG regulation of hippocampal metabolites and intestinal microflora composition.

Efficacy and Safety of SIKD1977 in Combination with Standard Treatment for Postherpetic Neuralgia: Study Protocol for a Double Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized, Multicenter, Phase 2 Clinical Trial

Purpose

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is the most common chronic complication of herpes zoster, associated with poor quality of life and increased patient and healthcare resource expenditure. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SIKD1977 (Sogeonjungtang) in combination with standard treatment and estimate an effective dose for treating PHN.

Patients and Methods

This is a protocol for a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicenter trial. A total of 90 eligible participants with PHN will be recruited from three hospitals and randomly allocated to high-dose group, low-dose group, or placebo group in a 1:1:1 ratio. The trial will involve a 6-week oral administration of SIKD1977/placebo, and a 1-week follow-up period. The primary outcome will be the weekly average change in average daily pain score (ADPS) from baseline to the end of treatment. The secondary outcomes will include the weekly average changes in ADPS from baseline to week 2, 4, and 7, differences in Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire, Visual analogue scale, 5-level EuroQol-5 dimensions, Patient Global Impression of Change, and consumption of rescue drugs. All adverse events will be assessed during the trial.

Conclusion

This study will provide evidence for the efficacy and safety of SIKD1977, and an effective dose for PHN.

Trial Registration

This protocol has been registered in the Clinical Research Information Service with the identification code KCT0007939.

Dietary and Sexual Correlates of Gut Microbiota in the Japanese Gecko, Gekko japonicus (Schlegel, 1836)

Numerous studies have demonstrated that multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors shape the structure and composition of gut microbiota in a host. The disorder of the gut microbiota may trigger various host diseases. Here, we collected fecal samples from wild-caught Japanese geckos (Gekko japonicus) and captive conspecifics fed with mealworms (mealworm-fed geckos) and fruit flies (fly-fed geckos), aiming to examine the dietary and sexual correlates of the gut microbiota. We used 16S rRNA gene sequencing technology to determine the composition of the gut microbiota. The dominant phyla with a mean relative abundance higher than 10% were Verrucomicrobiota, Bacteroidota, and Firmicutes. Gut microbial community richness and diversity were higher in mealworm-fed geckos than in wild geckos. Neither community evenness nor beta diversity of gut microbiota differed among wild, mealworm-fed, and fly-fed geckos. The beta rather than alpha diversity of gut microbiota was sex dependent. Based on the relative abundance of gut bacteria and their gene functions, we concluded that gut microbiota contributed more significantly to the host's metabolic and immune functions. A higher diversity of gut microbiota in mealworm-fed geckos could result from higher chitin content in insects of the order Coleoptera. This study not only provides basic information about the gut microbiota of G. japonicus but also shows that gut microbiota correlates with dietary habits and sex in the species.

Chlorogenic acid combined with epigallocatechin-3-gallate mitigates D-galactose-induced gut aging in mice

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) are major polyphenolic constituents of coffee and green tea with beneficial health properties. In this study, we evaluated the gut protecting effect of CGA and EGCG, alone or in combination, on D-galactose-induced aging mice. CGA plus EGCG more effectively improved the cognition deficits and protected the gut barrier function, compared with the agents alone. Specifically, CGA plus EGCG prevented the D-galactose mediated reactive oxygen species accumulation by increasing the total antioxidant capacity, reducing the levels of malondialdehyde, and suppressing the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase. In addition, supplementation of CGA and EGCG suppressed gut inflammation by reducing the levels of the proinflammatory cytokines TNFα, IFNγ, IL-1β and IL-6. Moreover, CGA and EGCG modulated the gut microbiome altered by D-galactose. For instance, CGA plus EGCG restored the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio of the aging mice to control levels. Furthermore, CGA plus EGCG decreased the abundance of Lactobacillaceae, Erysipelotrichaceae, and Deferribacteraceae, while increased the abundance of Lachnospiraceae, Muribaculaceae, and Rikenellaceae, at the family level. In conclusion, CGA in combination with EGCG ameliorated the gut alterations induced by aging, in part, through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, along with its gut microbiota modulatory capacity.

Brown goat yogurt: Metabolomics, peptidomics, and sensory changes during production

Brown goat milk products have gained popularity for their unique taste and flavor. The emergence of chain-reversal phenomenon makes the design and development of goat milk products gradually tend to a consumer-oriented model. However, the precise mechanism of how browning and fermentation process causes characteristics is not clear. In an effort to understand how the treatments potentially lead to certain metabolite profile changes in goat milk, comprehensive, quantitative metabolomics and peptidomics analysis of goat milk samples after browning and fermentation were undertaken. An intelligent hybrid z-score standardization-principal components algorithm-multimodal denoizing autoencoder was used for feature fusion and hidden layer fusion in high-dimensional variable space. The fermentation process significantly improved the flavor of brown goat yogurt through the tricarboxylic acid-urea-glycolysis composite pathway. Bitter peptides HPFLEWAR, PPGLPDKY, and PPPPPKK have strong interactions with both putative dipeptidyl peptidase IV and angiotensin-converting enzyme, proving that brown goat yogurt can be considered as effective provider of potential putative dipeptidyl peptidase IV and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. The level of health-promoting bioactive components and sensory contributed to consumer selection. The proposed multimodal data integrative analysis platform was applicable to explain the effect of the dynamic changes of metabolites and peptides on consumer preferences.

Anxiety and Metabolic Disorders: The Role of Botanicals

Anxiety and anxiety-related disorders are becoming more evident every day, affecting an increasing number of people around the world. Metabolic disorders are often associated with anxiety. Furthermore, anxiety branches into metabolic disorders by playing multiple roles as a cofactor, symptom, and comorbidity. Taken together, these considerations open the possibility of integrating the therapy of metabolic disorders with specific drugs for anxiety control. However, anxiolytic compounds often cause disabling effects in patients. The main goal could be to combine therapeutic protocols with compounds capable of reducing side effects while performing multiple beneficial effects. In this article we propose a group of bioactive ingredients called botanicals as a healthy supplement for the treatment of metabolic disorders related to anxiety.

Potential novel therapeutic strategies for neuropathic pain

Purpose

To explore the potential therapeutic strategies of different types of neuropathic pain (NP) and to summarize the cutting-edge novel approaches for NP treatment based on the clinical trials registered on ClinicalTrials.gov.

Methods

The relevant clinical trials were searched using ClinicalTrials.gov Dec 08, 2022. NP is defined as a painful condition caused by neurological lesions or diseases. All data were obtained and reviewed by the investigators to confirm whether they were related to the current topic.

Results

A total of 914 trials were included in this study. They were divided into painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN), postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), sciatica (SC), peripheral nerve injury-related NP (PNI), trigeminal neuralgia (TN), chemotherapy-induced NP (CINP), general peripheral NP (GPNP) and spinal cord injury NP (SCI-NP). Potential novel therapeutic strategies, such as novel drug targets and physical means, were discussed for each type of NP.

Conclusion

NP treatment is mainly dominated by drug therapy, and physical means have become increasingly popular. It is worth noting that novel drug targets, new implications of conventional medicine, and novel physical means can serve as promising strategies for the treatment of NP. However, more attention needs to be paid to the challenges of translating research findings into clinical practice.

Plant-derived natural products targeting ion channels for pain

Chronic pain affects approximately one-fifth of people worldwide and reduces quality of life and in some cases, working ability. Ion channels expressed along nociceptive pathways affect neuronal excitability and as a result modulate pain experience. Several ion channels have been identified and investigated as potential targets for new medicines for the treatment of a variety of human diseases, including chronic pain. Voltage-gated channels Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ channels, K⁺ channels, transient receptor potential channels (TRP), purinergic (P2X) channels and acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) are some examples of ion channels exhibiting altered function or expression in different chronic pain states. Pharmacological approaches are being developed to mitigate dysregulation of these channels as potential treatment options. Since natural compounds of plant origin exert promising biological and pharmacological properties and are believed to possess less adverse effects compared to synthetic drugs, they have been widely studied as treatments for chronic pain for their ability to alter the functional activity of ion channels. A literature review was conducted using Medline, Google Scholar and PubMed, resulted in listing 79 natural compounds/extracts that are reported to interact with ion channels as part of their analgesic mechanism of action. Most in vitro studies utilized electrophysiological techniques to study the effect of natural compounds on ion channels using primary cultures of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. In vivo studies concentrated on different pain models and were conducted mainly in mice and rats. Proceeding into clinical trials will require further study to develop new, potent and specific ion channel modulators of plant origin.

Plant and fungi derived analgesic natural products targeting voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels

Voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels (VGSCs and VGCCs) play an important role in the modulation of physiologically relevant processes in excitable cells that range from action potential generation to neurotransmission. Once their expression and/or function is altered in disease, specific pharmacological approaches become necessary to mitigate the negative consequences of such dysregulation. Several classes of small molecules have been developed with demonstrated effectiveness on VGSCs and VGCCs; however, off-target effects have also been described, limiting their use and spurring efforts to find more specific and safer molecules to target these channels. There are a great number of plants and herbal preparations that have been empirically used for the treatment of diseases in which VGSCs and VGCCs are involved. Some of these natural products have progressed to clinical trials, while others are under investigation for their action mechanisms on signaling pathways, including channels. In this review, we synthesize information from ~30 compounds derived from natural sources like plants and fungi and delineate their effects on VGSCs and VGCCs in human disease, particularly pain. [Figure: see text].

Gut Microbiota Alternation in Disease Progression of Neurosyphilis

Background

The gut microbiota plays an important role in the development of neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. However, studies on the gut microbiota of patients with neurosyphilis (NS) were rarely reported.

Methods

In this study, we collected fecal samples from 62 syphilis patients, including 39 with NS and 23 with non-NS. Among the NS patients, 18 were general paresis (GP). The white blood cell counts, protein concentrations, and Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test positive rates of cerebrospinal fluid from patients in NS or GP group were significantly higher than those from patients in non-NS group. 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing results revealed that the alpha and beta diversities of the gut microbiota were similar between NS and non-NS patients or GP and non-NS patients.

Results

Linear discriminant analysis with effect size (LEfSe) analysis showed that some taxa, such as Coprobacter, were increased in both NS group and GP group, compared with non-NS group. Besides, the clade of Akkermansia was also overrepresented in GP Patients. Meanwhile, some taxa such as Clostridia_UCG-014 and SC-I-84 were underrepresented in NS patients. The abundances of class Bacilli and genus Alloprevotella were decreased in GP patients. Among them, the abundances of some taxa such as Coprobacter and Akkermansia have been reported to be associated with other neuropsychiatric disorders.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the alternation of the gut microbiota in NS patients may contribute to the course of NS, which will deepen our understanding of NS.

Ginger Root Extract Improves GI Health in Diabetic Rats by Improving Intestinal Integrity and Mitochondrial Function

Background Emerging research suggests hyperglycemia can increase intestinal permeability. Ginger and its bioactive compounds have been reported to benefit diabetic animals due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In this study, we revealed the beneficial effect of gingerol-enriched ginger (GEG) on intestinal health (i.e., barrier function, mitochondrial function, and anti-inflammation) in diabetic rats. Methods Thirty-three male Sprague Dawley rats were assigned to three groups: low-fat diet (control group), high-fat-diet (HFD) + streptozotocin (single low dose 35 mg/kg body weight (BW) after 2 weeks of HFD feeding) (DM group), and HFD + streptozotocin + 0.75% GEG in diet (GEG group) for 42 days. Glucose tolerance tests (GTT) and insulin tolerance tests (ITT) were conducted at baseline and prior to sample collection. Total pancreatic insulin content was determined by ELISA. Total RNA of intestinal tissues was extracted for mRNA expression using qRT-PCR. Results Compared to the DM group, the GEG group had improved glucose tolerance and increased pancreatic insulin content. Compared to those without GEG (DM group), GEG supplementation (GEG group) increased the gene expression of tight junction (Claudin-3) and antioxidant capacity (SOD1), while it decreased the gene expression for mitochondrial fusion (MFN1), fission (FIS1), biogenesis (PGC-1α, TFAM), mitophagy (LC3B, P62, PINK1), and inflammation (NF-κB). Conclusions Ginger root extract improved glucose homeostasis in diabetic rats, in part, via improving intestinal integrity and mitochondrial dysfunction of GI health.

Using Metabolomics to Identify the Exposure and Functional Biomarkers of Ginger

Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based metabolomics has become an important tool to increase our understanding of how diet affects human health. However, public and commercial mass spectral libraries of dietary metabolites are limited, resulting in the greatest challenge in converting mass spectrometry data into biological insights. In this study, we constructed an LC-MS/MS ginger library as an example to demonstrate the importance of dietary libraries for discovering food biomarkers. The functional and exposure biomarkers of ginger were investigated using plasma samples from mice treated with control and ginger extract diets. Our results showed clear discrimination between the metabolome of mice on normal and ginger extract diets. Using the in-house ginger library, we identified 20 ginger metabolites that can be used as exposure biomarkers of ginger. However, without the LC-MS/MS ginger library, none of the ginger metabolites could be accurately identified based on online mass databases. In addition, ginger treatment significantly impacts the endogenous metabolome, especially the purine metabolism and phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis. Overall, we demonstrated that the construction of LC-MS/MS spectra dietary libraries would enhance the ability to identify potential dietary biomarkers and correlate potential health benefits associated with food consumption.

Gingerol-Enriched Ginger Supplementation Mitigates Neuropathic Pain via Mitigating Intestinal Permeability and Neuroinflammation: Gut-Brain Connection

Objectives: Emerging evidence suggests an important role of the gut-brain axis in the development of neuropathic pain (NP). We investigated the effects of gingerol-enriched ginger (GEG) on pain behaviors, as well as mRNA expressions of inflammation via tight junction proteins in GI tissues (colon) and brain tissues (amygdala, both left and right) in animals with NP.

Methods: Seventeen male rats were randomly divided into three groups: Sham, spinal nerve ligation (SNL, pain model), and SNL+0.375% GEG (wt/wt in diet) for 4 weeks. Mechanosensitivity was assessed by von Frey filament tests and hindpaw compression tests. Emotional responsiveness was measured from evoked audible and ultrasonic vocalizations. Ongoing spontaneous pain was measured in rodent grimace tests. Intestinal permeability was assessed by the lactulose/D-mannitol ratio in urine. The mRNA expression levels of neuroinflammation (NF-κB, TNF-α) in the colon and amygdala (right and left) were determined by qRT-PCR. Data was analyzed statistically.

Results: Compared to the sham group, the SNL group had significantly greater mechanosensitivity (von Frey and compression tests), emotional responsiveness (audible and ultrasonic vocalizations to innocuous and noxious mechanical stimuli), and spontaneous pain (rodent grimace tests). GEG supplementation significantly reduced mechanosensitivity, emotional responses, and spontaneous pain measures in SNL rats. GEG supplementation also tended to decrease SNL-induced intestinal permeability markers. The SNL group had increased mRNA expression of NF-κB and TNF-α in the right amygdala and colon; GEG supplementation mitigated these changes in SNL-treated rats.

Conclusion: This study suggests GEG supplementation palliated a variety of pain spectrum behaviors in a preclinical NP animal model. GEG also decreased SNL-induced intestinal permeability and neuroinflammation, which may explain the behavioral effects of GEG.

Zingiber officinale and Panax ginseng ameliorate ulcerative colitis in mice via modulating gut microbiota and its metabolites

Zingiber officinale and Panax ginseng, as well-known traditional Chinese medicines, have been used together to clinically treat ulcerative colitis with synergistic effects for thousands of years. However, their compatibility mechanism remains unclear. In this study, the shift of gut microbiome and fecal metabolic profiles were monitored by 16S rRNA sequencing technology and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis, respectively, which aimed to reveal the synergistic mechanism of Zingiber officinale and Panax ginseng on the amelioration of ulcerative colitis. The results showed that the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria (such as Muribaculaceae_norank, Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group and Akkermansia) was significantly increased and the abundance of pathogenic bacteria (such as Bacteroides, Parabacteroides and Desulfovibrio) was markedly decreased after the intervention of Zingiber officinale-Panax ginseng herb pair. And a total of 16 differential metabolites related to ulcerative colitis were identified by the metabolomics analysis, which were majorly associated with the metabolic pathways, including arachidonic acid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, and steroid biosynthesis. Based on these findings, it was suggested that the regulation of the gut microbiota-metabolite axis might be a potential target for the synergistic mechanism of Zingiber officinale-Panax ginseng herb pair in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Furthermore, the integrated analysis of microbiome and metabolomics used in this study could also serve as a useful template for exploring the mechanism of other drugs.

Role of gut microbiota in neuropathy and neuropathic pain states: A systematic preclinical review

Gut microbiota has implications in Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders. Our study systematically identified preclinical studies aimed to investigate the possible gut microbiota contribution in neuropathy and neuropathic pain. The systematic review is reported in accordance with PRISMA checklist and guidelines outlined updated to 2020. We included research articles reporting neuropathy-related behavioral evaluations and/or neurological scores coupled to gut microbiota analysis performed by high-throughput technologies in the last ten years. Two investigators performed a search through 3 electronic bibliographic databases for full-text articles (PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE) and three registries (Prospero, SyRF, and bioRxiv), cross-references, and linear searches. We assessed the methodological quality via the CAMARADES checklist and appraised the heterogeneous body of evidence by narrative synthesis. In total, there were 19 eligible studies. The most of these reports showed significant changes in gut microbiota setting in neuropathy conditions. The major gut microbiome remodeling was through fecal microbiome transplantation. Mechanistic proof of the gut-CNS communication was achieved by measuring inflammatory mediators, metabolic products, or neurotransmitters. As a limitation, we found considerable heterogeneity across eligible studies. We conclude that the current understanding of preclinical findings suggested an association between neuropathy and/or neuropathic pain and gut microbiota modifications. Our analysis provides the basis for further studies targeting microbiota for managing symptoms of neuropathy or other neuroinflammation-based CNS disorders. The systematic review protocol was registered on the international database Prospero under the registration number (# 257628).

Zingiber officinale: A Systematic Review of Botany, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Gut Microbiota-Related Gastrointestinal Benefits

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) is a traditional edible medicinal herb with a wide range of uses and long cultivation history. Fresh ginger (Zingiberis Recens Rhizoma; Sheng Jiang in Chinese, SJ) and dried ginger (Zingiberis Rhizoma; Gan Jiang in Chinese, GJ) are designated as two famous traditional Chinese herbal medicines, which are different in plant cultivation, appearances and functions, together with traditional applications. Previous researches mainly focused on the differences in chemical composition between them, but there was no systematical comparison on the similarity concerning research achievements of the two herbs. Meanwhile, ginger has traditionally been used for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, but so far, the possible interaction with human gut microbiota has hardly been considered. This review comprehensively presents similarities and differences between SJ and GJ retrospectively, particularly proposing them the significant differences in botany, phytochemistry and ethnopharmacology, which can be used as evidence for clinical application of SJ and GJ. Furthermore, the pharmacology of gut microbiota-related gastrointestinal benefits has also been discussed in order to explore better ways to prevent and treat gastrointestinal disorders, which can be used as a reference for further research.