1
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Ntiri ES, Chun Nin Wong A. Microbial metabolites as engines of behavioral variation across animals. Gut Microbes 2025; 17:2501191. [PMID: 40357979 PMCID: PMC12077453 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2025.2501191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2025] [Revised: 04/07/2025] [Accepted: 04/28/2025] [Indexed: 05/15/2025] Open
Abstract
The microbiome, especially that present in the gut, has emerged as a key modulator of animal behavior. However, the extent of its influence across species and behavioral repertoires, as well as the underlying mechanisms, remains poorly understood. Increasing evidence suggests that microbial metabolites play an important role in driving behavioral variation. In this review, we synthesize findings from vertebrates to invertebrates, spanning both model and non-model organisms, to define key groups of microbial-derived metabolites involved in modulating seven distinct behaviors: nutrition, olfaction, circadian rhythms, reproduction, locomotion, aggression, and social interactions. We discuss how these microbial metabolites interact with host chemosensory systems, neurotransmitter signaling, and epigenetic modifications to shape behavior. Additionally, we highlight critical gaps in mechanistic understanding, including the need to map additional host receptors and signaling pathways, as well as the untapped potential of microbial biosynthetic gene clusters as sources for novel bioactive compounds. Advancing these areas will enhance understanding of the microbiome's role in behavioral modulation and open new avenues for microbiome-based interventions for behavioral disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Siaw Ntiri
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Adam Chun Nin Wong
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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2
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Ohara TE, Hsiao EY. Microbiota-neuroepithelial signalling across the gut-brain axis. Nat Rev Microbiol 2025; 23:371-384. [PMID: 39743581 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-024-01136-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2024] [Indexed: 01/04/2025]
Abstract
Research over the past two decades has established a remarkable ability of the gut microbiota to modulate brain activity and behaviour. Conversely, signals from the brain can influence the composition and function of the gut microbiota. This bidirectional communication across the gut microbiota-brain axis, involving multiple biochemical and cellular mediators, is recognized as a major brain-body network that integrates cues from the environment and the body's internal state. Central to this network is the gut sensory system, formed by intimate connections between chemosensory epithelial cells and sensory nerve fibres, that conveys interoceptive signals to the central nervous system. In this Review, we provide a broad overview of the pathways that connect the gut and the brain, and explore the complex dialogue between microorganisms and neurons at this emerging intestinal neuroepithelial interface. We highlight relevant microbial factors, endocrine cells and neural mechanisms that govern gut microbiota-brain interactions and their implications for gastrointestinal and neuropsychiatric health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro E Ohara
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Elaine Y Hsiao
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- UCLA Goodman-Luskin Microbiome Center, Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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3
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Mendez-Hernandez R, Braga I, Bali A, Yang M, de Lartigue G. Vagal Sensory Gut-Brain Pathways That Control Eating-Satiety and Beyond. Compr Physiol 2025; 15:e70010. [PMID: 40229922 DOI: 10.1002/cph4.70010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2025] [Revised: 03/20/2025] [Accepted: 03/31/2025] [Indexed: 04/16/2025]
Abstract
The vagus nerve is the body's primary sensory conduit from gut to brain, traditionally viewed as a passive relay for satiety signals. However, emerging evidence reveals a far more complex system-one that actively encodes diverse aspects of meal-related information, from mechanical stretch to nutrient content, metabolic state, and even microbial metabolites. This review challenges the view of vagal afferent neurons (VANs) as simple meal-termination sensors and highlights their specialized subpopulations, diverse sensory modalities, and downstream brain circuits, which shape feeding behavior, metabolism, and cognition. We integrate recent advances from single-cell transcriptomics, neural circuit mapping, and functional imaging to examine how VANs contribute to gut-brain communication beyond satiety, including their roles in food reward and memory formation. By synthesizing the latest research and highlighting emerging directions for the field, this review provides a comprehensive update on vagal sensory pathways and their role as integrators of meal information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Mendez-Hernandez
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Isadora Braga
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Avnika Bali
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mingxin Yang
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Guillaume de Lartigue
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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4
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Romaní‐Pérez M, Líebana‐García R, Flor‐Duro A, Bonillo‐Jiménez D, Bullich‐Vilarrubias C, Olivares M, Sanz Y. Obesity and the gut microbiota: implications of neuroendocrine and immune signaling. FEBS J 2025; 292:1397-1420. [PMID: 39159270 PMCID: PMC11927058 DOI: 10.1111/febs.17249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Obesity is a major health challenge due to its high prevalence and associated comorbidities. The excessive intake of a diet rich in fat and sugars leads to a persistent imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure, which increases adiposity. Here, we provide an update on relevant diet-microbe-host interactions contributing to or protecting from obesity. In particular, we focus on how unhealthy diets shape the gut microbiota and thus impact crucial intestinal neuroendocrine and immune system functions. We describe how these interactions promote dysfunction in gut-to-brain neuroendocrine pathways involved in food intake control and postprandial metabolism and elevate the intestinal proinflammatory tone, promoting obesity and metabolic complications. In addition, we provide examples of how this knowledge may inspire microbiome-based interventions, such as fecal microbiota transplants, probiotics, and biotherapeutics, to effectively combat obesity-related disorders. We also discuss the current limitations and gaps in knowledge of gut microbiota research in obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Romaní‐Pérez
- Institute of Agrochemistry and Food TechnologySpanish National Research Council (IATA‐CSIC)ValenciaSpain
| | - Rebeca Líebana‐García
- Institute of Agrochemistry and Food TechnologySpanish National Research Council (IATA‐CSIC)ValenciaSpain
| | - Alejandra Flor‐Duro
- Institute of Agrochemistry and Food TechnologySpanish National Research Council (IATA‐CSIC)ValenciaSpain
| | - Daniel Bonillo‐Jiménez
- Institute of Agrochemistry and Food TechnologySpanish National Research Council (IATA‐CSIC)ValenciaSpain
| | - Clara Bullich‐Vilarrubias
- Institute of Agrochemistry and Food TechnologySpanish National Research Council (IATA‐CSIC)ValenciaSpain
| | - Marta Olivares
- Institute of Agrochemistry and Food TechnologySpanish National Research Council (IATA‐CSIC)ValenciaSpain
| | - Yolanda Sanz
- Institute of Agrochemistry and Food TechnologySpanish National Research Council (IATA‐CSIC)ValenciaSpain
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5
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Brito CF, Fonseca RC, Rodrigues-Ribeiro L, Guimarães JSF, Vaz BF, Tofani GSS, Batista ACS, Diniz AB, Fernandes P, Nunes NAM, Pessoa RM, Oliveira ACC, Lula IS, Cardoso VN, Fernandes SOA, Poletini MO, Alvarez-Leite JI, Menezes GB, Ferreira AVM, Magalhães MTQ, Gorshkov V, Kjeldsen F, Verano-Braga T, Araujo AM, Oliveira AG. Vagus Nerve Mediated Liver-Brain-Axis Is a Major Regulator of the Metabolic Landscape in the Liver. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:2166. [PMID: 40076796 PMCID: PMC11901116 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26052166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2025] [Revised: 02/17/2025] [Accepted: 02/21/2025] [Indexed: 03/14/2025] Open
Abstract
The liver serves as a major energetic reservoir for other tissues and its metabolic function is controlled by humoral and neural factors. The vagus nerve innervating the gastrointestinal tract plays an important role in regulating peripheral metabolism and energy expenditure. Although the liver receives vagus nerve fibers, the impact of this circuitry in the regulation of hepatic metabolism is still poorly understood. Herein, we used a combination of quantitative proteomics and in vivo imaging techniques to investigate the impact of the vagus nerve on liver metabolism in male mice. Liver-brain axis was impaired by vagotomy (VNX) or knocking down of the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT-KD). Mice were challenged with high carbohydrate or high-fat feeding. The vagus nerve shapes the metabolic framework of the liver, as vagotomy led to a significant alteration of the hepatic proteome landscape. Differential protein expression and pathway enrichment analyses showed that glycolytic and fatty acid biosynthesis were increased following VNX, whereas β-oxidation was decreased. These results were corroborated in VAChT-KD mice. This metabolic shift facilitated lipid accumulation in hepatocytes in mice fed with a standard commercial diet. Furthermore, VNX worsened liver steatosis following high-carbohydrate or high-fat dietary challenges. This study describes the liver-brain axis mediated by the vagus nerve as an important regulator of the hepatic metabolic landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila F. Brito
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil; (C.F.B.); (R.C.F.)
| | - Roberta C. Fonseca
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil; (C.F.B.); (R.C.F.)
| | - Lucas Rodrigues-Ribeiro
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil; (C.F.B.); (R.C.F.)
| | - João S. F. Guimarães
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil; (C.F.B.); (R.C.F.)
| | - Bruna F. Vaz
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil; (C.F.B.); (R.C.F.)
| | - Gabriel S. S. Tofani
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil; (C.F.B.); (R.C.F.)
| | - Ana C. S. Batista
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Ariane B. Diniz
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Paola Fernandes
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil; (C.F.B.); (R.C.F.)
| | - Núbia A. M. Nunes
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Rafaela M. Pessoa
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Amanda C. C. Oliveira
- Department of Nutrition, Nursing School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Ivana S. Lula
- Department of Chemistry, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil;
| | - Valbert N. Cardoso
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Simone O. A. Fernandes
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Maristela O. Poletini
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil; (C.F.B.); (R.C.F.)
| | - Jacqueline I. Alvarez-Leite
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Gustavo B. Menezes
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Adaliene V. M. Ferreira
- Department of Nutrition, Nursing School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Mariana T. Q. Magalhães
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Vladimir Gorshkov
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Frank Kjeldsen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Thiago Verano-Braga
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil; (C.F.B.); (R.C.F.)
| | - Alan M. Araujo
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - André G. Oliveira
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil; (C.F.B.); (R.C.F.)
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6
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Chao J, Coleman RA, Keating DJ, Martin AM. Gut Microbiome Regulation of Gut Hormone Secretion. Endocrinology 2025; 166:bqaf004. [PMID: 40037297 PMCID: PMC11879239 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaf004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2025]
Abstract
The gut microbiome, comprising bacteria, viruses, fungi, and bacteriophages, is one of the largest microbial ecosystems in the human body and plays a crucial role in various physiological processes. This review explores the interaction between the gut microbiome and enteroendocrine cells (EECs), specialized hormone-secreting cells within the intestinal epithelium. EECs, which constitute less than 1% of intestinal epithelial cells, are key regulators of gut-brain communication, energy metabolism, gut motility, and satiety. Recent evidence shows that gut microbiota directly influence EEC function, maturation, and hormone secretion. For instance, commensal bacteria regulate the production of hormones like glucagon-like peptide 1 and peptide YY by modulating gene expression and vesicle cycling in EE cells. Additionally, metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, derived from microbial fermentation, play a central role in regulating EEC signaling pathways that affect metabolism, gut motility, and immune responses. Furthermore, the interplay between gut microbiota, EECs, and metabolic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes, is examined, emphasizing the microbiome's dual role in promoting health and contributing to disease states. This intricate relationship between the gut microbiome and EECs offers new insights into potential therapeutic strategies for metabolic and gut disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Chao
- Gut Hormones in Health and Disease Lab, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
| | - Rosemary A Coleman
- Gut Hormones in Health and Disease Lab, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
| | - Damien J Keating
- Gut Sensory Systems Group, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
| | - Alyce M Martin
- Gut Hormones in Health and Disease Lab, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
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7
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Jameson KG, Kazmi SA, Ohara TE, Son C, Yu KB, Mazdeyasnan D, Leshan E, Vuong HE, Paramo J, Lopez-Romero A, Yang L, Schweizer FE, Hsiao EY. Select microbial metabolites in the small intestinal lumen regulate vagal activity via receptor-mediated signaling. iScience 2025; 28:111699. [PMID: 39877906 PMCID: PMC11772968 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.111699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 09/22/2024] [Accepted: 12/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2025] Open
Abstract
The vagus nerve is proposed to enable communication between the gut microbiome and the brain, but activity-based evidence is lacking. We find that mice reared germ-free exhibit decreased vagal tone relative to colonized controls, which is reversed via microbiota restoration. Perfusing antibiotics into the small intestines of conventional mice, but not germ-free mice, acutely decreases vagal activity which is restored upon re-perfusion with intestinal filtrates from conventional, but not germ-free, mice. Microbiome-dependent short-chain fatty acids, bile acids, and 3-indoxyl sulfate indirectly stimulate vagal activity in a receptor-dependent manner. Serial perfusion of each metabolite class activates both shared and distinct neuronal subsets with varied response kinetics. Metabolite-induced and receptor-dependent increases in vagal activity correspond with the activation of brainstem neurons. Results from this study reveal that the gut microbiome regulates select metabolites in the intestinal lumen that differentially activate vagal afferent neurons, thereby enabling the microbial modulation of chemosensory signals for gut-brain communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly G. Jameson
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Sabeen A. Kazmi
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Takahiro E. Ohara
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Celine Son
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Kristie B. Yu
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Donya Mazdeyasnan
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Emma Leshan
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Helen E. Vuong
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jorge Paramo
- UCLA Goodman-Luskin Microbiome Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Arlene Lopez-Romero
- UCLA Goodman-Luskin Microbiome Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Long Yang
- Department of Neurobiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Felix E. Schweizer
- Department of Neurobiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Elaine Y. Hsiao
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- UCLA Goodman-Luskin Microbiome Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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8
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Kelty TJ, Kerr NR, Chou CH, Shryack GE, Taylor CL, Krause AA, Knutson AR, Bunten J, Childs TE, Meers GM, Dashek RJ, Puchalska P, Crawford PA, Thyfault JP, Booth FW, Rector RS. Cognitive impairment caused by compromised hepatic ketogenesis is prevented by endurance exercise. J Physiol 2025. [PMID: 39808588 DOI: 10.1113/jp287573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2024] [Accepted: 12/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2025] Open
Abstract
Extensive research has demonstrated endurance exercise to be neuroprotective. Whether these neuroprotective benefits are mediated, in part, by hepatic ketone production remains unclear. To investigate the role of hepatic ketone production on brain health during exercise, healthy 6-month-old female rats underwent viral knockdown of the rate-limiting enzyme in the liver that catalyses the first reaction in ketogenesis: 3-hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA synthase 2 (HMGCS2). Rats were then subjected to either a bout of acute exercise or 4 weeks of chronic treadmill running (5 days/week) and cognitive behavioural testing. Acute exercise elevated ketone plasma concentration 1 h following exercise. Hepatic HMGCS2 knockdown, verified by protein expression, reduced ketone plasma concentration 1 h after acute exercise and 48 h after chronic exercise. Proteomic analysis and enrichment of the frontal cortex revealed hepatic HMGCS2 knockdown reduced markers of mitochondrial function 1 h after acute exercise. HMGCS2 knockdown significantly reduced state 3 complex I + II respiration in isolated mitochondria from the frontal cortex after chronic exercise. Spatial memory and protein markers of synaptic plasticity were significantly reduced by HMGCS2 knockdown. These deficiencies were prevented by chronic endurance exercise training. In summary, these are the first data to propose that hepatic ketogenesis is required to maintain cognition and mitochondrial function, irrespective of training status, and that endurance exercise can overcome neuropathology caused by insufficient hepatic ketogenesis. These results establish a mechanistic link between liver and brain health that enhance our understanding of how peripheral tissue metabolism influences brain health. KEY POINTS: Decades of literature demonstrate endurance exercise to be neuroprotective. Whether neuroprotective benefits are mediated, in part, by hepatic ketone production remains unclear. This study provides the first set of data that suggest hepatic ketogenesis is required to maintain cognition, synaptic plasticity and mitochondrial function. These data indicate endurance exercise can protect against cognitive decline caused by compromised hepatic ketogenesis. These results establish a mechanistic link between liver and brain function, prompting further investigation of how hepatic metabolism influences brain health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor J Kelty
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Nathan R Kerr
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Chih H Chou
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Grace E Shryack
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Christopher L Taylor
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Alexa A Krause
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Alexandra R Knutson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Josh Bunten
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Tom E Childs
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Grace M Meers
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Ryan J Dashek
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Patrycja Puchalska
- Division of Molecular Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Peter A Crawford
- Division of Molecular Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - John P Thyfault
- Departments of Cellular Biology and Physiology and Internal Medicine-Division of Endocrinology, KU Diabetes Institute University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
- Research Service, Kansas City VA Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Frank W Booth
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - R Scott Rector
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Research Service, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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9
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Yao M, Qu Y, Zheng Y, Guo H. The effect of exercise on depression and gut microbiota: Possible mechanisms. Brain Res Bull 2025; 220:111130. [PMID: 39557221 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2024.111130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2024] [Revised: 11/09/2024] [Accepted: 11/12/2024] [Indexed: 11/20/2024]
Abstract
Exercise can effectively prevent and treat depression and anxiety, with gut microbiota playing a crucial role in this process. Studies have shown that exercise can influence the diversity and composition of gut microbiota, which in turn affects depression through immune, endocrine, and neural pathways in the gut-brain axis. The effectiveness of exercise varies based on its type, intensity, and duration, largely due to the different changes in gut microbiota. This article summarizes the possible mechanisms by which exercise affects gut microbiota and how gut microbiota influences depression. Additionally, we reviewed literature on the effects of exercise on depression at different intensities, types, and durations to provide a reference for future exercise-based therapies for depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingchen Yao
- School of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Yaqi Qu
- School of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Yalin Zheng
- School of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Guo
- School of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China.
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10
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López-Almada G, Mejía-León ME, Salazar-López NJ. Probiotic, Postbiotic, and Paraprobiotic Effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus as a Modulator of Obesity-Associated Factors. Foods 2024; 13:3529. [PMID: 39593945 PMCID: PMC11592899 DOI: 10.3390/foods13223529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2024] [Revised: 10/28/2024] [Accepted: 11/02/2024] [Indexed: 11/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a pandemic currently affecting the world's population that decreases the quality of life and promotes the development of chronic non-communicable diseases. Lactobacillus rhamnosus is recognized for multiple positive effects on obesity and overall health. In fact, such effects may occur even when the microorganisms do not remain alive (paraprobiotic effects). This raises the need to elucidate the mechanisms by which obesity-associated factors can be modulated. This narrative review explores recent findings on the effects of L. rhamnosus, particularly, its postbiotic and paraprobiotic effects, on the modulation of adiposity, weight gain, oxidative stress, inflammation, adipokines, satiety, and maintenance of intestinal integrity, with the aim of providing a better understanding of its mechanisms of action in order to contribute to streamlining its clinical and therapeutic applications. The literature shows that L. rhamnosus can modulate obesity-associated factors when analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, its postbiotic and paraprobiotic effects may be comparable to the more studied probiotic actions. Some mechanisms involve regulation of gene expression, intracellular signaling, and enteroendocrine communication, among others. We conclude that the evidence is promising, although there are still multiple knowledge gaps that require further study in order to fully utilize L. rhamnosus to improve human health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Norma Julieta Salazar-López
- Facultad de Medicina de Mexicali, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Dr. Humberto Torres Sanginés, Centro Cívico, Mexicali 21000, BCN, Mexico
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11
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Kang JW, Vemuganti V, Kuehn JF, Ulland TK, Rey FE, Bendlin BB. Gut microbial metabolism in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Neurotherapeutics 2024; 21:e00470. [PMID: 39462700 PMCID: PMC11585892 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurot.2024.e00470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2024] [Revised: 09/30/2024] [Accepted: 10/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple studies over the last decade have established that Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) are associated with changes in the gut microbiome. These alterations in organismal composition result in changes in the abundances of functions encoded by the microbial community, including metabolic capabilities, which likely impact host disease mechanisms. Gut microbes access dietary components and other molecules made by the host and produce metabolites that can enter circulation and cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In recent years, several microbial metabolites have been associated with or have been shown to influence host pathways relevant to ADRD pathology. These include short chain fatty acids, secondary bile acids, tryptophan derivatives (such as kynurenine, serotonin, tryptamine, and indoles), and trimethylamine/trimethylamine N-oxide. Notably, some of these metabolites cross the BBB and can have various effects on the brain, including modulating the release of neurotransmitters and neuronal function, inducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and impacting synaptic function. Microbial metabolites can also impact the central nervous system through immune, enteroendocrine, and enteric nervous system pathways, these perturbations in turn impact the gut barrier function and peripheral immune responses, as well as the BBB integrity, neuronal homeostasis and neurogenesis, and glial cell maturation and activation. This review examines the evidence supporting the notion that ADRD is influenced by gut microbiota and its metabolites. The potential therapeutic advantages of microbial metabolites for preventing and treating ADRD are also discussed, highlighting their potential role in developing new treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jea Woo Kang
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Vaibhav Vemuganti
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jessamine F Kuehn
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Tyler K Ulland
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Federico E Rey
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Barbara B Bendlin
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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12
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Fox EA, Serlin HK. Gaps in our understanding of how vagal afferents to the small intestinal mucosa detect luminal stimuli. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2024; 327:R173-R187. [PMID: 38860288 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00252.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Vagal afferents to the gastrointestinal tract are crucial for the regulation of food intake, signaling negative feedback that contributes to satiation and positive feedback that produces appetition and reward. Vagal afferents to the small intestinal mucosa contribute to this regulation by sensing luminal stimuli and reporting this information to the brain. These afferents respond to mechanical, chemical, thermal, pH, and osmolar stimuli, as well as to bacterial products and immunogens. Surprisingly, little is known about how these stimuli are transduced by vagal mucosal afferents or how their transduction is organized among these afferents' terminals. Furthermore, the effects of stimulus concentration ranges or physiological stimuli on vagal activity have not been examined for some of these stimuli. Also, detection of luminal stimuli has rarely been examined in rodents, which are most frequently used for studying small intestinal innervation. Here we review what is known about stimulus detection by vagal mucosal afferents and illustrate the complexity of this detection using nutrients as an exemplar. The accepted model proposes that nutrients bind to taste receptors on enteroendocrine cells (EECs), which excite them, causing the release of hormones that stimulate vagal mucosal afferents. However, evidence reviewed here suggests that although this model accounts for many aspects of vagal signaling about nutrients, it cannot account for all aspects. A major goal of this review is therefore to evaluate what is known about nutrient absorption and detection and, based on this evaluation, identify candidate mucosal cells and structures that could cooperate with EECs and vagal mucosal afferents in stimulus detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward A Fox
- Behavioral Neurogenetics Laboratory, Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States
| | - Hannah K Serlin
- Behavioral Neurogenetics Laboratory, Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States
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13
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Firoozi D, Masoumi SJ, Mohammad-Kazem Hosseini Asl S, Labbe A, Razeghian-Jahromi I, Fararouei M, Lankarani KB, Dara M. Effects of short-chain fatty acid-butyrate supplementation on expression of circadian-clock genes, sleep quality, and inflammation in patients with active ulcerative colitis: a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Lipids Health Dis 2024; 23:216. [PMID: 39003477 PMCID: PMC11245831 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-024-02203-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The regulation of the circadian clock genes, which coordinate the activity of the immune system, is disturbed in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Emerging evidence suggests that butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid produced by the gut microbiota is involved in the regulation of inflammatory responses as well as circadian-clock genes. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of sodium-butyrate supplementation on the expression of circadian-clock genes, inflammation, sleep and life quality in active ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. METHODS In the current randomized placebo-controlled trial, 36 active UC patients were randomly divided to receive sodium-butyrate (600 mg/kg) or placebo for 12-weeks. In this study the expression of circadian clock genes (CRY1, CRY2, PER1, PER2, BMAl1 and CLOCK) were assessed by real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in whole blood. Gene expression changes were presented as fold changes in expression (2^-ΔΔCT) relative to the baseline. The faecal calprotectin and serum level of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method (ELIZA). Moreover, the sleep quality and IBD quality of life (QoL) were assessed by Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) and inflammatory bowel disease questionnaire-9 (IBDQ-9) respectively before and after the intervention. RESULTS The results showed that sodium-butyrate supplementation in comparison with placebo significantly decreased the level of calprotectin (-133.82 ± 155.62 vs. 51.58 ± 95.57, P-value < 0.001) and hs-CRP (-0.36 (-1.57, -0.05) vs. 0.48 (-0.09-4.77), P-value < 0.001) and upregulated the fold change expression of CRY1 (2.22 ± 1.59 vs. 0.63 ± 0.49, P-value < 0.001), CRY2 (2.15 ± 1.26 vs. 0.93 ± 0.80, P-value = 0.001), PER1 (1.86 ± 1.77 vs. 0.65 ± 0.48, P-value = 0.005), BMAL1 (1.85 ± 0.97 vs. 0.86 ± 0.63, P-value = 0.003). Also, sodium-butyrate caused an improvement in the sleep quality (PSQI score: -2.94 ± 3.50 vs. 1.16 ± 3.61, P-value < 0.001) and QoL (IBDQ-9: 17.00 ± 11.36 vs. -3.50 ± 6.87, P-value < 0.001). CONCLUSION Butyrate may be an effective adjunct treatment for active UC patients by reducing biomarkers of inflammation, upregulation of circadian-clock genes and improving sleep quality and QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donya Firoozi
- Student Research Committee, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Decision Sciences, HEC, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Seyed Jalil Masoumi
- Nutrition Research Center, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran.
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | | | - Aurélie Labbe
- Department of Decision Sciences, HEC, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Mohammad Fararouei
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kamran Bagheri Lankarani
- Health Policy Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mahintaj Dara
- Stem Cells Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Wei T, Mueed A, Luo T, Sun Y, Zhang B, Zheng L, Deng Z, Li J. 1,3-Dioleoyl-2-palmitoyl-glycerol and 1-oleoyl-2-palmitoyl-3-linoleoyl-glycerol: Structure-function relationship, triacylglycerols preparation, nutrition value. Food Chem 2024; 443:138560. [PMID: 38295563 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.138560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Based on multivariate statistics, this review compared major triacylglycerols (TAGs) in animal milk and human milk fat from China and other countries. Human milk fat differs from animal milk fat in that it has longer acyl chains and higher concentrations of 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoyl-glycerol (O-P-O) and 1-oleoyl-2-palmitoyl-3-linoleoylglycerol (O-P-L). O-P-L is a significant and distinct TAG in human milk fat, particularly in China. 1-oleoyl-2-palmitoyl-3-linoleoylglycerol (OPL) is human milk's major triglyceride molecule of O-P-L, accounting for more than 70%. As a result, OPL has piqued the interest of Chinese academics. The synthesis process and nutritional outcomes of OPL have been studied, including changes in gut microbiota, serum lipid composition, improved fatty acid and calcium absorption, and increased total bile acid levels. However, current OPL research is limited. Therefore, this review discussed enzymatic preparation of 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoyl-glycerol (OPO) and OPL and their nutritional and physiological activity to direct future research direction for sn-2 palmitate and OPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, China.
| | - Abdul Mueed
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, China
| | - Ting Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, China; International Institute of Food Innovation, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China.
| | - Yong Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, China; International Institute of Food Innovation, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China.
| | - Bing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, China; International Institute of Food Innovation, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China.
| | - Liufeng Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, China; International Institute of Food Innovation, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China.
| | - Zeyuan Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, China; International Institute of Food Innovation, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China; National Center of Technology Innovation for Dairy, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010110, China.
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, China; International Institute of Food Innovation, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China; National Center of Technology Innovation for Dairy, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010110, China.
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15
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Lee DH, Kim MT, Han JH. GPR41 and GPR43: From development to metabolic regulation. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116735. [PMID: 38744220 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors are a diverse class of cell surface receptors that orchestrate numerous physiological functions. The G-protein-coupled receptors, GPR41 and GPR43, sense short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are metabolites of dietary fermentation by the host's intestinal bacteria. These receptors have gained attention as potential therapeutic targets against various diseases because of their SCFA-mediated beneficial effects on the host's intestinal health. Mounting evidence has associated the activity of these receptors with chronic metabolic diseases, including obesity, diabetes, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease. However, despite intensive research using various strategies, including gene knockout (KO) mouse models, evidence about the precise roles of GPR41 and GPR43 in disease treatment remains inconsistent. Here, we comprehensively review the latest findings from functional studies of the signaling mechanisms that underlie the activities of GPR41 and GPR43, as well as highlight their multifaceted roles in health and disease. We anticipate that this knowledge will guide future research priorities and the development of effective therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do-Hyung Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, the Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Tae Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Research, KyongBo Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, 174, Sirok-ro, Asan-si, Chungcheongnam-do 31501, the Republic of Korea
| | - Joo-Hui Han
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Woosuk University, Wanju 55338, the Republic of Korea.
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16
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Zeng H, Xu J, Zheng L, Zhan Z, Fang Z, Li Y, Zhao C, Xiao R, Zheng Z, Li Y, Yang L. Traditional Chinese herbal formulas modulate gut microbiome and improve insomnia in patients with distinct syndrome types: insights from an interventional clinical study. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1395267. [PMID: 38817449 PMCID: PMC11137223 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1395267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) comprising herbal formulas has been used for millennia to treat various diseases, such as insomnia, based on distinct syndrome types. Although TCM has been proposed to be effective in insomnia through gut microbiota modulation in animal models, human studies remain limited. Therefore, this study employs machine learning and integrative network techniques to elucidate the role of the gut microbiome in the efficacies of two TCM formulas - center-supplementing and qi-boosting decoction (CSQBD) and spleen-tonifying and yin heat-clearing decoction (STYHCD) - in treating insomnia patients diagnosed with spleen qi deficiency and spleen qi deficiency with stomach heat. Methods Sixty-three insomnia patients with these two specific TCM syndromes were enrolled and treated with CSQBD or STYHCD for 4 weeks. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) every 2 weeks. In addition, variations in gut microbiota were evaluated through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Stress and inflammatory markers were measured pre- and post-treatment. Results At baseline, patients exhibiting only spleen qi deficiency showed slightly lesser severe insomnia, lower IFN-α levels, and higher cortisol levels than those with spleen qi deficiency with stomach heat. Both TCM syndromes displayed distinct gut microbiome profiles despite baseline adjustment of PSQI, ISI, and IFN-α scores. The nested stratified 10-fold cross-validated random forest classifier showed that patients with spleen qi deficiency had a higher abundance of Bifidobacterium longum than those with spleen qi deficiency with stomach heat, negatively associated with plasma IFN-α concentration. Both CSQBD and STYHCD treatments significantly improved sleep quality within 2 weeks, which lasted throughout the study. Moreover, the gut microbiome and inflammatory markers were significantly altered post-treatment. The longitudinal integrative network analysis revealed interconnections between sleep quality, gut microbes, such as Phascolarctobacterium and Ruminococcaceae, and inflammatory markers. Conclusion This study reveals distinct microbiome profiles associated with different TCM syndrome types and underscores the link between the gut microbiome and efficacies of Chinese herbal formulas in improving insomnia. These findings deepen our understanding of the gut-brain axis in relation to insomnia and pave the way for precision treatment approaches leveraging TCM herbal remedies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimei Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, and The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia Xu
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Liming Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, and The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Zhan
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, and The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zenan Fang
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, and The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunxi Li
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, and The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunyi Zhao
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong Xiao
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Eighth People’s Hospital of Hefei, Hefei, China
| | - Zhuanfang Zheng
- Teaching and research Center, Guangdong Provincial Trade Union Cadre School, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Li
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, and The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lingling Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, and The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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17
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Dalile B, Fuchs A, La Torre D, Vervliet B, Van Oudenhove L, Verbeke K. Colonic butyrate administration modulates fear memory but not the acute stress response in men: A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 131:110939. [PMID: 38199487 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.110939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are produced in the colon following bacterial fermentation of dietary fiber and are important microbiota-gut-brain messengers. However, their mechanistic role in modulating psychobiological processes that underlie the development of stress- and anxiety-related disorders is scarcely studied in humans. We have previously shown that colonic administration of a SCFA mixture (acetate, propionate, butyrate) lowers the cortisol response to stress in healthy participants, but does not impact fear conditioning and extinction. To disentangle the effects of the three main SCFAs, we examined whether butyrate alone would similarly modulate these psychobiological responses in a randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled intervention study in 71 healthy male participants (Mage = 25.2, MBMI = 22.7 [n = 35 butyrate group, n = 36 placebo group]). Colon-delivery capsules with pH-dependent coating were used to administer 5.28 g of butyrate or placebo daily for one week. Butyrate administration significantly increased serum butyrate concentrations without modulating serum acetate or propionate, nor fecal SCFAs. Butyrate administration also significantly modulated fear memory at the subjective but not physiological levels. Contrary to expectations, no changes in subjective nor neuroendocrine responses to acute stress were evident between the treatment groups from pre- to post-intervention. We conclude that colonic butyrate administration alone is not sufficient to modulate psychobiological stress responses, unlike administration of a SCFA mixture. The influence of colonic and systemic butyrate on fear memory and the persistence of fear extinction should be further systematically investigated in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boushra Dalile
- Translational Research Center in Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Biological Psychology, Brain & Cognition, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Annalena Fuchs
- Translational Research Center in Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Danique La Torre
- Translational Research Center in Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bram Vervliet
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Biological Psychology, Brain & Cognition, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lukas Van Oudenhove
- Translational Research Center in Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience Lab, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Kristin Verbeke
- Translational Research Center in Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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18
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Hart JB, Poon RK, Ward RE, Hintze KJ, Freeman SM. Effects of Dietary Fiber on Short Chain Fatty Acid Receptor mRNA in Microglia and Serotonergic Neurons in the Mouse Brain. Neuroscience 2024; 544:88-101. [PMID: 38431042 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are bioactive lipids that are released into the colon as a metabolite of bacterial fermentation of dietary fibers. Beyond their function in the gastrointestinal tract, SCFAs can also have effects inthe brain, as a part of the gut-brain axis. Recent investigations into potential therapeutic interventions via the manipulation of the gut microbiome-and thus their SCFA metabolites-has been emerging as a new branch of personalized medicine,especially for mental health conditions. The current study sought to measure and localize SCFA receptors in the mouse brain. Two cell types have been implicated in the gut-brain axis: microglia and serotonergic neurons. We used fluorescentin situhybridization in brain sections from mice fed diets with different compositions of fat and fiber to quantify the mRNA levels of known gene markers of these two cell types and colocalize each with mRNA for free fatty acid receptors that bind SCFAs. We focused onmicroglia in the hippocampus and the serotonergic neurons of the dorsal raphe. We found high colocalization of SCFA receptors in both microglia and serotonergic neurons and discovered that SCFA receptor expression in the dorsal raphe is driven by fiber solubility, while SCFA receptor expression in the hippocampus is driven by fiber amount. Higher dietary fiber was associated with decreased tyrosine hydroxylase expression. Thus, our results indicate that the amount and solubility of dietary fiber can change gene expression in the brain's microglia and serotonin neurons, potentially via sensitivity to circulating levels of SCFAs produced in the gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna B Hart
- Department of Biology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Robert K Poon
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Robert E Ward
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Korry J Hintze
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Sara M Freeman
- Department of Biology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA.
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19
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Hamamah S, Hajnal A, Covasa M. Influence of Bariatric Surgery on Gut Microbiota Composition and Its Implication on Brain and Peripheral Targets. Nutrients 2024; 16:1071. [PMID: 38613104 PMCID: PMC11013759 DOI: 10.3390/nu16071071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity remains a significant global health challenge, with bariatric surgery remaining as one of the most effective treatments for severe obesity and its related comorbidities. This review highlights the multifaceted impact of bariatric surgery beyond mere physical restriction or nutrient malabsorption, underscoring the importance of the gut microbiome and neurohormonal signals in mediating the profound effects on weight loss and behavior modification. The various bariatric surgery procedures, such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG), act through distinct mechanisms to alter the gut microbiome, subsequently impacting metabolic health, energy balance, and food reward behaviors. Emerging evidence has shown that bariatric surgery induces profound changes in the composition of the gut microbiome, notably altering the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and enhancing populations of beneficial bacteria such as Akkermansia. These microbiota shifts have far-reaching effects beyond gut health, influencing dopamine-mediated reward pathways in the brain and modulating the secretion and action of key gut hormones including ghrelin, leptin, GLP-1, PYY, and CCK. The resultant changes in dopamine signaling and hormone levels contribute to reduced hedonic eating, enhanced satiety, and improved metabolic outcomes. Further, post-bariatric surgical effects on satiation targets are in part mediated by metabolic byproducts of gut microbiota like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and bile acids, which play a pivotal role in modulating metabolism and energy expenditure and reducing obesity-associated inflammation, as well as influencing food reward pathways, potentially contributing to the regulation of body weight and reduction in hedonic eating behaviors. Overall, a better understanding of these mechanisms opens the door to developing non-surgical interventions that replicate the beneficial effects of bariatric surgery on the gut microbiome, dopamine signaling, and gut hormone regulation, offering new avenues for obesity treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevag Hamamah
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 9176, USA;
| | - Andras Hajnal
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA 17033, USA;
| | - Mihai Covasa
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 9176, USA;
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, 7200229 Suceava, Romania
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20
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Fan C, Xu J, Tong H, Fang Y, Chen Y, Lin Y, Chen R, Chen F, Wu G. Gut-brain communication mediates the impact of dietary lipids on cognitive capacity. Food Funct 2024; 15:1803-1824. [PMID: 38314832 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo05288e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment, as a prevalent symptom of nervous system disorders, poses one of the most challenging aspects in the management of brain diseases. Lipids present in the cell membranes of all neurons within the brain and dietary lipids can regulate the cognition and memory function. In recent years, the advancements in gut microbiome research have enabled the exploration of dietary lipids targeting the gut-brain axis as a strategy for regulating cognition. This present review provides an in-depth overview of how lipids modulate cognition via the gut-brain axis depending on metabolic, immune, neural and endocrine pathways. It also comprehensively analyzes the effects of diverse lipids on the gut microbiota and intestinal barrier function, thereby affecting the central nervous system and cognitive capacity. Moreover, comparative analysis of the positive and negative effects is presented between beneficial and detrimental lipids. The former encompass monounsaturated fatty acids, short-chain fatty acids, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, phospholipids, phytosterols, fungal sterols and bioactive lipid-soluble vitamins, as well as lipid-derived gut metabolites, whereas the latter (detrimental lipids) include medium- or long-chain fatty acids, excessive proportions of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, industrial trans fatty acids, and zoosterols. To sum up, the focus of this review is on how gut-brain communication mediates the impact of dietary lipids on cognitive capacity, providing a novel theoretical foundation for promoting brain cognitive health and scientific lipid consumption patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenhan Fan
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Jingxuan Xu
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Haoxiang Tong
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Yucheng Fang
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Yiming Chen
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Yangzhuo Lin
- School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Rui Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Fuhao Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Guoqing Wu
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
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21
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Cuciureanu DI, Bistriceanu CE, Vulpoi GA, Cuciureanu T, Antochi F, Roceanu AM. Migraine Comorbidities. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:74. [PMID: 38255689 PMCID: PMC10820535 DOI: 10.3390/life14010074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Novel knowledge about the interrelationships and reciprocal effects of migraine and epilepsy, migraine and mood disorders, or migraine and irritable bowel syndrome has emerged in recent decades. Over time, comorbid pathologies associated with migraine that share common physiopathological mechanisms were studied. Among these studied pathologies is epilepsy, a disorder with common ion channel dysfunctions as well as dysfunctions in glutamatergic transmission. A high degree of neuronal excitement and ion channel abnormalities are associated with epilepsy and migraine and antiepileptic drugs are useful in treating both disorders. The coexistence of epilepsy and migraine may occur independently in the same individual or the two may be causally connected. The relationship between cortical spreading depression (CSD) and epileptic foci has been suggested by basic and clinical neuroscience research. The most relevant psychiatric comorbidities associated with migraine are anxiety and mood disorders, which influence its clinical course, treatment response, and clinical outcome. The association between migraine and major depressive disorder can be explained by a robust molecular genetic background. In addition to its role as a potent vasodilator, CGRP is also involved in the transmission of nociception, a phenomenon inevitably linked with the stress and anxiety caused by frequent migraine attacks. Another aspect is the role of gut microbiome in migraine's pathology and the gut-brain axis involvement. Irritable bowel syndrome patients are more likely to suffer migraines, according to other studies. There is no precise explanation for how the gut microbiota contributes to neurological disorders in general and migraines in particular. This study aims to show that migraines and comorbid conditions, such as epilepsy, microbiota, or mood disorders, can be connected from the bench to the bedside. It is likely that these comorbid migraine conditions with common pathophysiological mechanisms will have a significant impact on best treatment choices and may provide clues for future treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Iulian Cuciureanu
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
- Neurology Department I, “Prof. Dr. N. Oblu” Emergency Clinical Hospital, 700309 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Cătălina Elena Bistriceanu
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
- Elytis Hospital Hope, 700010 Iasi, Romania
| | - Georgiana-Anca Vulpoi
- Neurology Department I, “Prof. Dr. N. Oblu” Emergency Clinical Hospital, 700309 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Tudor Cuciureanu
- Gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Florina Antochi
- Neurology Department, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania; (F.A.); (A.-M.R.)
| | - Adina-Maria Roceanu
- Neurology Department, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania; (F.A.); (A.-M.R.)
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22
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Tang Y, Du J, Wu H, Wang M, Liu S, Tao F. Potential Therapeutic Effects of Short-Chain Fatty Acids on Chronic Pain. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:191-203. [PMID: 36173071 PMCID: PMC10788890 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220927092016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The intestinal homeostasis maintained by the gut microbiome and relevant metabolites is essential for health, and its disturbance leads to various intestinal or extraintestinal diseases. Recent studies suggest that gut microbiome-derived metabolites short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are involved in different neurological disorders (such as chronic pain). SCFAs are produced by bacterial fermentation of dietary fibers in the gut and contribute to multiple host processes, including gastrointestinal regulation, cardiovascular modulation, and neuroendocrine-immune homeostasis. Although SCFAs have been implicated in the modulation of chronic pain, the detailed mechanisms that underlie such roles of SCFAs remain to be further investigated. In this review, we summarize currently available research data regarding SCFAs as a potential therapeutic target for chronic pain treatment and discuss several possible mechanisms by which SCFAs modulate chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Tang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Neurology of Xinxiang, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Juan Du
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Hongfeng Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Mengyao Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Sufang Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Dentistry, Texas A&M University Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Feng Tao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Dentistry, Texas A&M University Dallas, Texas, USA
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23
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Jameson KG, Kazmi SA, Son C, Mazdeyasnan D, Leshan E, Vuong HE, Paramo J, Lopez-Romero A, Yang L, Schweizer FE, Hsiao EY. Vagal interoception of microbial metabolites from the small intestinal lumen. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.18.572257. [PMID: 38187610 PMCID: PMC10769238 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.18.572257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The vagus nerve is proposed to enable communication between the gut microbiome and brain, but activity-based evidence is lacking. Herein, we assess the extent of gut microbial influences on afferent vagal activity and metabolite signaling mechanisms involved. We find that mice reared without microbiota (germ-free, GF) exhibit decreased vagal afferent tone relative to conventionally colonized mice (specific pathogen-free, SPF), which is reversed by colonization with SPF microbiota. Perfusing non-absorbable antibiotics (ABX) into the small intestine of SPF mice, but not GF mice, acutely decreases vagal activity, which is restored upon re-perfusion with bulk lumenal contents or sterile filtrates from the small intestine and cecum of SPF, but not GF, mice. Of several candidates identified by metabolomic profiling, microbiome-dependent short-chain fatty acids, bile acids, and 3-indoxyl sulfate stimulate vagal activity with varied response kinetics, which is blocked by co-perfusion of pharmacological antagonists of FFAR2, TGR5, and TRPA1, respectively, into the small intestine. At the single-unit level, serial perfusion of each metabolite class elicits more singly responsive neurons than dually responsive neurons, suggesting distinct neuronal detection of different microbiome- and macronutrient-dependent metabolites. Finally, microbial metabolite-induced increases in vagal activity correspond with activation of neurons in the nucleus of the solitary tract, which is also blocked by co-administration of their respective receptor antagonists. Results from this study reveal that the gut microbiome regulates select metabolites in the intestinal lumen that differentially activate chemosensory vagal afferent neurons, thereby enabling microbial modulation of interoceptive signals for gut-brain communication. HIGHLIGHTS Microbiota colonization status modulates afferent vagal nerve activityGut microbes differentially regulate metabolites in the small intestine and cecumSelect microbial metabolites stimulate vagal afferents with varied response kineticsSelect microbial metabolites activate vagal afferent neurons and brainstem neurons via receptor-dependent signaling.
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24
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Liu Z, Qiu E, Yang B, Zeng Y. Uncovering hub genes in sepsis through bioinformatics analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e36237. [PMID: 38050254 PMCID: PMC10695588 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In-depth studies on the mechanisms of pathogenesis of sepsis and diagnostic biomarkers in the early stages may be the key to developing individualized and effective treatment strategies. This study aimed to identify sepsis-related hub genes and evaluate their diagnostic reliability. The gene expression profiles of GSE4607 and GSE131761 were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus. Differentially co-expressed genes between the sepsis and control groups were screened. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis and gene set variation analysis were performed to investigate the biological functions of the hub genes. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate diagnostic value. Datasets GSE154918 and GSE185263 were used as external validation datasets to verify the reliability of the hub genes. Four differentially co-expressed genes, FAM89A, FFAR3, G0S2, and FGF13, were extracted using a weighted gene co-expression network analysis and differential gene expression analysis methods. These 4 genes were upregulated in the sepsis group and were distinct from those in the controls. Moreover, the receiver operating characteristic curves of the 4 genes exhibited considerable diagnostic value in discriminating septic blood samples from those of the non-septic control group. The reliability and consistency of these 4 genes were externally validated. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis and gene set variation analysis analyses indicated that the 4 hub genes were significantly correlated with the regulation of immunity and metabolism in sepsis. The identified FAM89A, FFAR3, G0S2, and FGF13 genes may help elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying sepsis and drive the introduction of new biomarkers to advance diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Liu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, China
| | - Eryue Qiu
- Department of Trauma Center, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, China
| | - Bihui Yang
- Department of Hematology, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, China
| | - Yiqian Zeng
- Department of Trauma Center, Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, China
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25
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Di Lauro M, Guerriero C, Cornali K, Albanese M, Costacurta M, Mercuri NB, Di Daniele N, Noce A. Linking Migraine to Gut Dysbiosis and Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases. Nutrients 2023; 15:4327. [PMID: 37892403 PMCID: PMC10609600 DOI: 10.3390/nu15204327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In the world, migraine is one of the most common causes of disability in adults. To date, there is no a single cause for this disorder, but rather a set of physio-pathogenic triggers in combination with a genetic predisposition. Among the factors related to migraine onset, a crucial role seems to be played by gut dysbiosis. In fact, it has been demonstrated how the intestine is able to modulate the central nervous system activities, through the gut-brain axis, and how gut dysbiosis can influence neurological pathologies, including migraine attacks. In this context, in addition to conventional pharmacological treatments for migraine, attention has been paid to an adjuvant therapeutic strategy based on different nutritional approaches and lifestyle changes able to positively modulate the gut microbiota composition. In fact, the restoration of the balance between the different gut bacterial species, the reconstruction of the gut barrier integrity, and the control of the release of gut-derived inflammatory neuropeptides, obtained through specific nutritional patterns and lifestyle changes, represent a possible beneficial additive therapy for many migraine subtypes. Herein, this review explores the bi-directional correlation between migraine and the main chronic non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, obesity, cancer, and chronic kidney diseases, whose link is represented by gut dysbiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Di Lauro
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy; (M.D.L.); (C.G.); (K.C.); (M.A.); (N.B.M.); (N.D.D.)
| | - Cristina Guerriero
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy; (M.D.L.); (C.G.); (K.C.); (M.A.); (N.B.M.); (N.D.D.)
| | - Kevin Cornali
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy; (M.D.L.); (C.G.); (K.C.); (M.A.); (N.B.M.); (N.D.D.)
| | - Maria Albanese
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy; (M.D.L.); (C.G.); (K.C.); (M.A.); (N.B.M.); (N.D.D.)
- Neurology Unit, Headache Center, Tor Vergata University Hospital, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Micaela Costacurta
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy;
| | - Nicola Biagio Mercuri
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy; (M.D.L.); (C.G.); (K.C.); (M.A.); (N.B.M.); (N.D.D.)
- Neurology Unit, Headache Center, Tor Vergata University Hospital, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Nicola Di Daniele
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy; (M.D.L.); (C.G.); (K.C.); (M.A.); (N.B.M.); (N.D.D.)
- Fondazione Leonardo per le Scienze Mediche Onlus, Policlinico Abano, 35031 Abano Terme, PD, Italy
| | - Annalisa Noce
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy; (M.D.L.); (C.G.); (K.C.); (M.A.); (N.B.M.); (N.D.D.)
- UOSD Nephrology and Dialysis, Policlinico Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy
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26
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Zhou Y, Xie L, Schröder J, Schuster IS, Nakai M, Sun G, Sun YBY, Mariño E, Degli-Esposti MA, Marques FZ, Grubman A, Polo JM, Mackay CR. Dietary Fiber and Microbiota Metabolite Receptors Enhance Cognition and Alleviate Disease in the 5xFAD Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. J Neurosci 2023; 43:6460-6475. [PMID: 37596052 PMCID: PMC10506626 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0724-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with poorly understood etiology. AD has several similarities with other "Western lifestyle" inflammatory diseases, where the gut microbiome and immune pathways have been associated. Previously, we and others have noted the involvement of metabolite-sensing GPCRs and their ligands, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), in protection of numerous Western diseases in mouse models, such as Type I diabetes and hypertension. Depletion of GPR43, GPR41, or GPR109A accelerates disease, whereas high SCFA yielding diets protect in mouse models. Here, we extended the concept that metabolite-sensing receptors and SCFAs may be a more common protective mechanism against Western diseases by studying their role in AD pathogenesis in the 5xFAD mouse model. Both male and female mice were included. Depletion of GPR41 and GPR43 accelerated cognitive decline and impaired adult hippocampal neurogenesis in 5xFAD and WT mice. Lack of fiber/SCFAs accelerated a memory deficit, whereas diets supplemented with high acetate and butyrate (HAMSAB) delayed cognitive decline in 5xFAD mice. Fiber intake impacted on microglial morphology in WT mice and microglial clustering phenotype in 5xFAD mice. Lack of fiber impaired adult hippocampal neurogenesis in both W and AD mice. Finally, maternal dietary fiber intake significantly affects offspring's cognitive functions in 5xFAD mice and microglial transcriptome in both WT and 5xFAD mice, suggesting that SCFAs may exert their effect during pregnancy and lactation. Together, metabolite-sensing GPCRs and SCFAs are essential for protection against AD, and reveal a new strategy for disease prevention.Significance Statement Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases; currently, there is no cure for AD. In our study, short-chain fatty acids and metabolite receptors play an important role in cognitive function and pathology in AD mouse model as well as in WT mice. SCFAs also impact on microglia transcriptome, and immune cell recruitment. Out study indicates the potential of specialized diets (supplemented with high acetate and butyrate) releasing high amounts of SCFAs to protect against disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichen Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
| | - Liang Xie
- Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Hypertension Research Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
| | - Jan Schröder
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
| | - Iona S Schuster
- Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Center for Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia, 6009
| | - Michael Nakai
- Hypertension Research Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
| | - Guizhi Sun
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
| | - Yu B Y Sun
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
| | - Eliana Mariño
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
| | - Mariapia A Degli-Esposti
- Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Center for Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia, 6009
| | - Francine Z Marques
- Hypertension Research Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Heart Failure Research Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 6009
| | - Alexandra Grubman
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
| | - Jose M Polo
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
| | - Charles R Mackay
- Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, 3800
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong Analysis and Test Center, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, China, 6009
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27
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Li S, Liu M, Cao S, Liu B, Li D, Wang Z, Sun H, Cui Y, Shi Y. The Mechanism of the Gut-Brain Axis in Regulating Food Intake. Nutrients 2023; 15:3728. [PMID: 37686760 PMCID: PMC10490484 DOI: 10.3390/nu15173728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increasing prevalence of energy metabolism disorders such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and anorexia, the regulation of feeding has become the focus of global attention. The gastrointestinal tract is not only the site of food digestion and absorption but also contains a variety of appetite-regulating signals such as gut-brain peptides, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bile acids (BAs), bacterial proteins, and cellular components produced by gut microbes. While the central nervous system (CNS), as the core of appetite regulation, can receive and integrate these appetite signals and send instructions to downstream effector organs to promote or inhibit the body's feeding behaviour. This review will focus on the gut-brain axis mechanism of feeding behaviour, discussing how the peripheral appetite signal is sensed by the CNS via the gut-brain axis and the role of the central "first order neural nuclei" in the process of appetite regulation. Here, elucidation of the gut-brain axis mechanism of feeding regulation may provide new strategies for future production practises and the treatment of diseases such as anorexia and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouren Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (S.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Mengqi Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (S.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Shixi Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (S.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Boshuai Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (S.L.); (M.L.)
- Henan Key Laboratory of Innovation and Utilization of Grassland Resources, Zhengzhou 450002, China
- Henan Forage Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Defeng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (S.L.); (M.L.)
- Henan Key Laboratory of Innovation and Utilization of Grassland Resources, Zhengzhou 450002, China
- Henan Forage Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Zhichang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (S.L.); (M.L.)
- Henan Key Laboratory of Innovation and Utilization of Grassland Resources, Zhengzhou 450002, China
- Henan Forage Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Hao Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (S.L.); (M.L.)
- Henan Key Laboratory of Innovation and Utilization of Grassland Resources, Zhengzhou 450002, China
- Henan Forage Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Yalei Cui
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (S.L.); (M.L.)
- Henan Key Laboratory of Innovation and Utilization of Grassland Resources, Zhengzhou 450002, China
- Henan Forage Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Yinghua Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; (S.L.); (M.L.)
- Henan Key Laboratory of Innovation and Utilization of Grassland Resources, Zhengzhou 450002, China
- Henan Forage Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhengzhou 450002, China
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28
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Mansuy-Aubert V, Ravussin Y. Short chain fatty acids: the messengers from down below. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1197759. [PMID: 37483350 PMCID: PMC10359501 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1197759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), produced by the metabolism of dietary fibers in the gut, have wide-ranging effects locally and throughout the body. They modulate the enteric and central nervous systems, benefit anti-inflammatory pathways, and serve as energy sources. Recent research reveals SCFAs as crucial communicators between the gut and brain, forming the gut-brain axis. This perspective highlights key findings and discusses signaling mechanisms connecting SCFAs to the brain. By shedding light on this link, the perspective aims to inspire innovative research in this rapidly developing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Mansuy-Aubert
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Yann Ravussin
- Laboratory of Energetics and Advanced Nutrition (LEAN), Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Systems (EMC), Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg (UNIFR), Fribourg, Switzerland
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29
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Wang H, Zhao T, Liu Z, Danzengquzhen, Cisangzhuoma, Ma J, Li X, Huang X, Li B. The neuromodulatory effects of flavonoids and gut Microbiota through the gut-brain axis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1197646. [PMID: 37424784 PMCID: PMC10327292 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1197646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent investigations show that dietary consumption of flavonoids could potentially confer neuroprotective effects through a variety of direct and indirect mechanisms. Numerous flavonoids have been shown to cross the BBB and accumulate within the central nervous system (CNS). Some of these compounds purportedly counteract the accumulation and deleterious effects of reactive oxygen species, fostering neuronal survival and proliferation by inhibiting neuroinflammatory and oxidative stress responses. Moreover, several studies suggest that gut microbiota may participate in regulating brain function and host behavior through the production and modulation of bioactive metabolites. Flavonoids may shape gut microbiota composition by acting as carbon substrates to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria that produce these neuroprotective metabolites, consequently antagonizing or suppressing potential pathogens. By influencing the microbiota-gut-brain axis through this selection process, flavonoids may indirectly improve brain health. This review examines the current state of research into the relationship between bioactive flavonoids, gut microbiota, and the gut-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Wang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lhasa, China
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Tingting Zhao
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lhasa, China
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Zhenjiang Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Danzengquzhen
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lhasa, China
| | - Cisangzhuoma
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lhasa, China
| | - Jinying Ma
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lhasa, China
| | - Xin Li
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Xiaodan Huang
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Bin Li
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lhasa, China
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30
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Wu J, Yang K, Fan H, Wei M, Xiong Q. Targeting the gut microbiota and its metabolites for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1114424. [PMID: 37229456 PMCID: PMC10204722 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1114424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. The incidence of T2DM is increasing globally, and a growing body of evidence suggests that gut microbiota dysbiosis may contribute to the development of this disease. Gut microbiota-derived metabolites, including bile acids, lipopolysaccharide, trimethylamine-N-oxide, tryptophan and indole derivatives, and short-chain fatty acids, have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of T2DM, playing a key role in the host-microbe crosstalk. This review aims to summarize the molecular links between gut microbiota-derived metabolites and the pathogenesis of T2DM. Additionally, we review the potential therapy and treatments for T2DM using probiotics, prebiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation and other methods to modulate gut microbiota and its metabolites. Clinical trials investigating the role of gut microbiota and its metabolites have been critically discussed. This review highlights that targeting the gut microbiota and its metabolites could be a potential therapeutic strategy for the prevention and treatment of T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqiang Wu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Kangping Yang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Hancheng Fan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Meilin Wei
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qin Xiong
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Disease, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Disease, Nanchang, China
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31
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Simmen FA, Pabona JMP, Al-Dwairi A, Alhallak I, Montales MTE, Simmen RCM. Malic Enzyme 1 (ME1) Promotes Adiposity and Hepatic Steatosis and Induces Circulating Insulin and Leptin in Obese Female Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076613. [PMID: 37047583 PMCID: PMC10095602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Malic Enzyme 1 (ME1) supports lipogenesis, cholesterol synthesis, and cellular redox potential by catalyzing the decarboxylation of L-malate to pyruvate, and the concomitant reduction of NADP to NADPH. We examined the contribution of ME1 to the development of obesity by provision of an obesogenic diet to C57BL/6 wild type (WT) and MOD-1 (lack ME1 protein) female mice. Adiposity, serum hormone levels, and adipose, mammary gland, liver, and small intestine gene expression patterns were compared between experimental groups after 10 weeks on a diet. Relative to WT female mice, MOD-1 female mice exhibited lower body weights and less adiposity; decreased concentrations of insulin, leptin, and estrogen; higher concentrations of adiponectin and progesterone; smaller-sized mammary gland adipocytes; and reduced hepatosteatosis. MOD-1 mice had diminished expression of Lep gene in abdominal fat; Lep, Pparg, Klf9, and Acaca genes in mammary glands; Pparg and Cdkn1a genes in liver; and Tlr9 and Ffar3 genes in the small intestine. By contrast, liver expression of Cdkn2a and Lepr genes was augmented in MOD-1, relative to WT mice. Results document an integrative role for ME1 in development of female obesity, suggest novel linkages with specific pathways/genes, and further support the therapeutic targeting of ME1 for obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank A. Simmen
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
- The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - John Mark P. Pabona
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Ahmed Al-Dwairi
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Iad Alhallak
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Maria Theresa E. Montales
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Rosalia C. M. Simmen
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
- The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
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32
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Bastings JJAJ, Venema K, Blaak EE, Adam TC. Influence of the gut microbiota on satiety signaling. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2023; 34:243-255. [PMID: 36870872 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies show a link between the gut microbiota and the regulation of satiety and energy intake, processes that contribute to the development and pathophysiology of metabolic diseases. However, this link is predominantly established in animal and in vitro studies, whereas human intervention studies are scarce. In this review we focus on recent evidence linking satiety and the gut microbiome, with specific emphasis on gut microbial short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Based on a systematic search we provide an overview of human studies linking the intake of prebiotics with gut microbial alterations and satiety signaling. Our outcomes highlight the importance of in-depth examination of the gut microbiota in relation to satiety and provide insights into recent and future studies in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacco J A J Bastings
- Department of Human Biology, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Koen Venema
- Department of Human Biology, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands; Centre for Healthy Eating and Food Innovation, Maastricht University, Campus Venlo, Venlo, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen E Blaak
- Department of Human Biology, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Tanja C Adam
- Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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33
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Reintam Blaser A, Preiser JC, Forbes A. The need for biomarkers to determine response to enteral nutrition during and after critical illness: an update. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2023; 26:120-128. [PMID: 36440798 DOI: 10.1097/mco.0000000000000893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Biomarkers proposed to provide prognosis or to determine the response to enteral nutrition have been assessed in a number of experimental and clinical studies which are summarized in the current review. RECENT FINDINGS There are several pathophysiological mechanisms identified which could provide biomarkers to determine response to enteral nutrition. Several biomarkers have been studied, most of them insufficiently and none of them has made its way to clinical practice. Available studies have mainly assessed a simple association of a biomarker with outcomes, but are less focused on dynamic changes in the biomarker levels. Importantly, studies on pathophysiology and clinical features of gastrointestinal dysfunction, including enteral feeding intolerance, are also needed to explore the mechanisms potentially providing specific biomarkers. Not only an association of the biomarker with any adverse outcome, but also a rationale for repeated assessment to assist in treatment decisions during the course of illness is warranted. SUMMARY There is no biomarker currently available to reliably provide prognosis or determine the response to enteral nutrition in clinical practice, but identification of such a biomarker would be valuable to assist in clinical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Reintam Blaser
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Lucerne Cantonal Hospital, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Charles Preiser
- Medical Direction, Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alastair Forbes
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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34
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Caetano-Silva ME, Rund L, Hutchinson NT, Woods JA, Steelman AJ, Johnson RW. Inhibition of inflammatory microglia by dietary fiber and short-chain fatty acids. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2819. [PMID: 36797287 PMCID: PMC9935636 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-27086-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglia play a vital role maintaining brain homeostasis but can also cause persistent neuroinflammation. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by the intestinal microbiota have been suggested to regulate microglia inflammation indirectly by signaling through the gut-brain axis or directly by reaching the brain. The present work evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of SCFAs on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated microglia from mice fed inulin, a soluble fiber that is fermented by intestinal microbiota to produce SCFAs in vivo, and SCFAs applied to primary microglia in vitro. Feeding mice inulin increased SCFAs in the cecum and in plasma collected from the hepatic portal vein. Microglia isolated from mice fed inulin and stimulated with LPS in vitro secreted less tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) compared to microglia from mice not given inulin. Additionally, when mice were fed inulin and injected i.p with LPS, the ex vivo secretion of TNF-α by isolated microglia was lower than that secreted by microglia from mice not fed inulin and injected with LPS. Similarly, in vitro treatment of primary microglia with acetate and butyrate either alone or in combination downregulated microglia cytokine production with the effects being additive. SCFAs reduced histone deacetylase activity and nuclear factor-κB nuclear translocation after LPS treatment in vitro. Whereas microglia expression of SCFA receptors Ffar2 or Ffar3 was not detected by single-cell RNA sequencing analysis, the SCFA transporters Mct1 and Mct4 were. Nevertheless, inhibiting monocarboxylate transporters on primary microglia did not interfere with the anti-inflammatory effects of SCFAs, suggesting that if SCFAs produced in the gut regulate microglia directly it is likely through an epigenetic mechanism following diffusion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laurie Rund
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Noah T Hutchinson
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Woods
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Andrew J Steelman
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Rodney W Johnson
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
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35
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Wang H, Bin Wang, Pan MB, Jiang ST, Wang YC, Zhu Y, Zhang QC, Dong YF. Disorders in the gut and liver are involved in depression contagion between isosexual post-stroke depression mice and the healthy cohabitors. Behav Brain Res 2023; 439:114246. [PMID: 36481213 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2022.114246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite the accumulated evidence that pair housing could attenuate post-stroke depression (PSD), but less attention has been paid to the healthy cohabitors, and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to determine whether there is depressive contagion between PSD mice and their healthy cohabitors. PSD was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) plus restraint stress for four weeks. Three days after MCAO, the mice were restrained two hours per day and isosexually pair-housed for four weeks. The results showed that, compared with the partners pair housed with normal control mice (Ctrl group), the partners pair housed with PSD mice (CH group) displayed depressive-like behaviors, including decreased sucrose preference rate, significantly shorter duration in the center arena and reduced total distance in the open-field test, and extended immobile time in forced swimming test and tail-suspension test without sex differences. Regarding the change in the body weight, only the males showed a significant reduction on days 17 and 24 after treatment. Furthermore, the CH group showed significantly increased corticosterone and decreased oxytocin (OXT) levels in serum, while the mRNA levels of OXT, vasopressin and oxytocin receptor were remarkably upregulated in the hypothalamus of the CH group. However, there was no significant change in the vasopressin receptor V1a. Interestingly, compared with the Ctrl group, there was a significant decrease in butyrate in serum of the CH group. Consistently, they had mild liver dysfunction with increased alanine transaminase, extended hepatic sinus surrounded by enhanced SLC22A9, and significantly increased Iba1-positive macrophages. Moreover, the expression of tight junction protein (Occludin and ZO-1) obviously decreased in the colon with increasing Iba1-positive cells. These results suggest that isosexual pair-housing with PSD mice causes the healthy partners to develop depressive-like behaviors with disturbances in the gut and liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Mei-Bo Pan
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Su-Ting Jiang
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yi-Chen Wang
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Qi-Chun Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Toxicity, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yin-Feng Dong
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
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36
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Hatahet J, Cook TM, Bonomo RR, Elshareif N, Gavini CK, White CR, Jesse J, Mansuy-Aubert V, Aubert G. Fecal microbiome transplantation and tributyrin improves early cardiac dysfunction and modifies the BCAA metabolic pathway in a diet induced pre-HFpEF mouse model. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1105581. [PMID: 36844730 PMCID: PMC9944585 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1105581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
More than 50% of patients with heart failure present with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), and 80% of them are overweight or obese. In this study we developed an obesity associated pre-HFpEF mouse model and showed an improvement in both systolic and diastolic early dysfunction following fecal microbiome transplant (FMT). Our study suggests that the gut microbiome-derived short-chain fatty acid butyrate plays a significant role in this improvement. Cardiac RNAseq analysis showed butyrate to significantly upregulate ppm1k gene that encodes protein phosphatase 2Cm (PP2Cm) which dephosphorylates and activates branched-chain α-keto acid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) enzyme, and in turn increases the catabolism of branched chain amino acids (BCAAs). Following both FMT and butyrate treatment, the level of inactive p-BCKDH in the heart was reduced. These findings show that gut microbiome modulation can alleviate early cardiac mechanics dysfunction seen in the development of obesity associated HFpEF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jomana Hatahet
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States
| | - Tyler M Cook
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States
| | - Raiza R Bonomo
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States
| | - Nadia Elshareif
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States
| | - Chaitanya K Gavini
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States.,Department of Biomedical Science, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Chelsea R White
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States
| | - Jason Jesse
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States
| | - Virginie Mansuy-Aubert
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States.,Department of Biomedical Science, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gregory Aubert
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States.,Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States
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Tan C, Yan Q, Ma Y, Fang J, Yang Y. Recognizing the role of the vagus nerve in depression from microbiota-gut brain axis. Front Neurol 2022; 13:1015175. [PMID: 36438957 PMCID: PMC9685564 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1015175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is a worldwide disease causing severe disability, morbidity, and mortality. Despite abundant studies, the precise mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of depression remain elusive. Recently, cumulate research suggests that a disturbance of microbiota-gut-brain axis may play a vital role in the etiology of depression while correcting this disturbance could alleviate depression symptoms. The vagus nerve, linking brain and gut through its afferent and efferent branches, is a critical route in the bidirectional communication of this axis. Directly or indirectly, the vagus afferent fibers can sense and relay gut microbiota signals to the brain and induce brain disorders including depression. Also, brain changes in response to stress may result in gut hyperpermeability and inflammation mediating by the vagal efferents, which may be detrimental to depression. Notably, vagus nerve stimulation owns an anti-inflammatory effect and was proved for depression treatment. Nevertheless, depression was accompanied by a low vagal tone, which may derive from response to stress and contribute to pathogenesis of depression. In this review, we aim to explore the role of the vagus nerve in depression from the perspective of the microbiota-gut-brain axis, highlighting the relationship among the vagal tone, the gut hyperpermeability, inflammation, and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoren Tan
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Qiqi Yan
- Institute of Basic Theory for Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Ma
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiliang Fang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongsheng Yang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
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38
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Solas M, Zamarbide M, Ardanaz CG, Ramírez MJ, Pérez-Mediavilla A. The Cognitive Improvement and Alleviation of Brain Hypermetabolism Caused by FFAR3 Ablation in Tg2576 Mice Is Persistent under Diet-Induced Obesity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13591. [PMID: 36362376 PMCID: PMC9654726 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity and aging are becoming increasingly prevalent across the globe. It has been established that aging is the major risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), and it is becoming increasingly evident that obesity and the associated insulin resistance are also notably relevant risk factors. The biological plausibility of the link between high adiposity, insulin resistance, and dementia is central for understanding AD etiology, and to form bases for prevention efforts to decrease the disease burden. Several studies have demonstrated a strong association between short chain fatty acid receptor FFAR3 and insulin sensitivity. Interestingly, it has been recently established that FFAR3 mRNA levels are increased in early stages of the AD pathology, indicating that FFAR3 could play a key role in AD onset and progression. Indeed, in the present study we demonstrate that the ablation of the Ffar3 gene in Tg2576 mice prevents the development of cognitive deficiencies in advanced stages of the disease. Notably, this cognitive improvement is also maintained upon a severe metabolic challenge such as the exposure to high-fat diet (HFD) feeding. Moreover, FFAR3 deletion restores the brain hypermetabolism displayed by Tg2576 mice. Collectively, these data postulate FFAR3 as a potential novel target for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maite Solas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdISNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Marta Zamarbide
- Neuroscience Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carlos G. Ardanaz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdISNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - María J. Ramírez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- IdISNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Alberto Pérez-Mediavilla
- IdISNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Neuroscience Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
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39
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Jadhav VV, Han J, Fasina Y, Harrison SH. Connecting gut microbiomes and short chain fatty acids with the serotonergic system and behavior in Gallus gallus and other avian species. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1035538. [PMID: 36406988 PMCID: PMC9667555 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1035538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The chicken gastrointestinal tract has a diverse microbial community. There is increasing evidence for how this gut microbiome affects specific molecular pathways and the overall physiology, nervous system and behavior of the chicken host organism due to a growing number of studies investigating conditions such as host diet, antibiotics, probiotics, and germ-free and germ-reduced models. Systems-level investigations have revealed a network of microbiome-related interactions between the gut and state of health and behavior in chickens and other animals. While some microbial symbionts are crucial for maintaining stability and normal host physiology, there can also be dysbiosis, disruptions to nutrient flow, and other outcomes of dysregulation and disease. Likewise, alteration of the gut microbiome is found for chickens exhibiting differences in feather pecking (FP) behavior and this alteration is suspected to be responsible for behavioral change. In chickens and other organisms, serotonin is a chief neuromodulator that links gut microbes to the host brain as microbes modulate the serotonin secreted by the host's own intestinal enterochromaffin cells which can stimulate the central nervous system via the vagus nerve. A substantial part of the serotonergic network is conserved across birds and mammals. Broader investigations of multiple species and subsequent cross-comparisons may help to explore general functionality of this ancient system and its increasingly apparent central role in the gut-brain axis of vertebrates. Dysfunctional behavioral phenotypes from the serotonergic system moreover occur in both birds and mammals with, for example, FP in chickens and depression in humans. Recent studies of the intestine as a major site of serotonin synthesis have been identifying routes by which gut microbial metabolites regulate the chicken serotonergic system. This review in particular highlights the influence of gut microbial metabolite short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) on the serotonergic system. The role of SCFAs in physiological and brain disorders may be considerable because of their ability to cross intestinal as well as the blood-brain barriers, leading to influences on the serotonergic system via binding to receptors and epigenetic modulations. Examinations of these mechanisms may translate into a more general understanding of serotonergic system development within chickens and other avians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidya V. Jadhav
- Department of Biology, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, United States
| | - Jian Han
- Department of Biology, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, United States
| | - Yewande Fasina
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, United States,*Correspondence: Yewande Fasina, ; Scott H. Harrison,
| | - Scott H. Harrison
- Department of Biology, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, United States,*Correspondence: Yewande Fasina, ; Scott H. Harrison,
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Jiang W, Wu J, Zhu S, Xin L, Yu C, Shen Z. The Role of Short Chain Fatty Acids in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. J Neurogastroenterol Motil 2022; 28:540-548. [PMID: 36250361 PMCID: PMC9577580 DOI: 10.5056/jnm22093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that is characterized by abdominal pain and disordered bowel habits. The etiology of IBS is multifactorial, including abnormal gut-brain interactions, visceral hypersensitivity, altered colon motility, and psychological factors. Recent studies have shown that the intestinal microbiota and its metabolites short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) may be involved in the pathogenesis of IBS. SCFAs play an important role in the pathophysiology of IBS. We discuss the underlying mechanisms of action of SCFAs in intestinal inflammation and immunity, intestinal barrier integrity, motility, and the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Limited to previous studies, further studies are required to investigate the mechanisms of action of SCFAs in IBS and provide more precise therapeutic strategies for IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxi Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiali Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shefeng Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Linying Xin
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chaohui Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Central and peripheral regulations mediated by short-chain fatty acids on energy homeostasis. Transl Res 2022; 248:128-150. [PMID: 35688319 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The human gut microbiota influences obesity, insulin resistance, and the subsequent development of type 2 diabetes (T2D). The gut microbiota digests and ferments nutrients resulting in the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which generate various beneficial metabolic effects on energy and glucose homeostasis. However, their roles in the central nervous system (CNS)-mediated outputs on the metabolism have only been minimally studied. Here, we explore what is known and future directions that may be worth exploring in this emerging area. Specifically, we searched studies or data in English by using PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Human Metabolome Database. Studies were filtered by time from 1978 to March 2022. As a result, 195 studies, 53 reviews, 1 website, and 1 book were included. One hundred and sixty-five of 195 studies describe the production and metabolism of SCFAs or the effects of SCFAs on energy homeostasis, glucose balance, and mental diseases through the gut-brain axis or directly by a central pathway. Thirty of 195 studies show that inappropriate metabolism and excessive of SCFAs are metabolically detrimental. Most studies suggest that SCFAs exert beneficial metabolic effects by acting as the energy substrate in the TCA cycle, regulating the hormones related to satiety regulation and insulin secretion, and modulating immune cells and microglia. These functions have been linked with AMPK signaling, GPCRs-dependent pathways, and inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDACs). However, the studies focusing on the central effects of SCFAs are still limited. The mechanisms by which central SCFAs regulate appetite, energy expenditure, and blood glucose during different physiological conditions warrant further investigation.
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Lednovich KR, Nnyamah C, Gough S, Priyadarshini M, Xu K, Wicksteed B, Mishra S, Jain S, Zapater JL, Yadav H, Layden BT. Intestinal FFA3 mediates obesogenic effects in mice on a Western diet. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2022; 323:E290-E306. [PMID: 35858247 PMCID: PMC9448285 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00016.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Free fatty acid receptor 3 (FFA3) is a recently-deorphanized G-protein-coupled receptor. Its ligands are short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are key nutrients derived from the gut microbiome fermentation process that play diverse roles in the regulation of metabolic homeostasis and glycemic control. FFA3 is highly expressed within the intestine, where its role and its effects on physiology and metabolism are unclear. Previous in vivo studies involving this receptor have relied on global knockout mouse models, making it difficult to isolate intestine-specific roles of FFA3. To overcome this challenge, we generated an intestine-specific knockout mouse model for FFA3, Villin-Cre-FFA3 (Vil-FFA3). Model validation and general metabolic assessment of male mice fed a standard chow diet revealed no major congenital defects. Because dietary changes are known to alter gut microbial composition, and thereby SCFA production, an obesogenic challenge was performed on male Vil-FFA3 mice and their littermate controls to probe for a phenotype on a high-fat, high-sugar "Western diet" (WD) compared with a low-fat control diet (CD). Vil-FFA3 mice versus FFA3fl/fl controls on WD, but not CD, were protected from the development of diet-induced obesity and exhibited significantly less fat mass as well as smaller adipose depositions and adipocytes. Although overall glycemic control was unchanged in the WD-fed Vil-FFA3 group, fasted glucose levels trended lower. Intestinal inflammation was significantly reduced in the WD-fed Vil-FFA3 mice, supporting protection from obesogenic effects. Furthermore, we observed lower levels of gastric inhibitory protein (GIP) in the WD-fed Vil-FFA3 mice, which may contribute to phenotypic changes. Our findings suggest a novel role of intestinal FFA3 in promoting the metabolic consequences of a WD, including the development of obesity and inflammation. Moreover, these data support an intestine-specific role of FFA3 in whole body metabolic homeostasis and in the development of adiposity.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Here, we generated a novel intestine-specific knockout mouse model for FFA3 (Vil-FFA3) and performed a comprehensive metabolic characterization of mice in response to an obesogenic challenge. We found that Vil-FFA3 mice fed with a Western diet were largely protected from obesity, exhibiting significantly lower levels of fat mass, lower intestinal inflammation, and altered expression of intestinal incretin hormones. Results support an important role of intestinal FFA3 in contributing to metabolism and in the development of diet-induced obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen R Lednovich
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Chioma Nnyamah
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sophie Gough
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Medha Priyadarshini
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kai Xu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Barton Wicksteed
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sidharth Mishra
- USF Center for Microbiome Research, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida
| | - Shalini Jain
- USF Center for Microbiome Research, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida
| | - Joseph L Zapater
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Hariom Yadav
- USF Center for Microbiome Research, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida
| | - Brian T Layden
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
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de Wouters d’Oplinter A, Huwart SJP, Cani PD, Everard A. Gut microbes and food reward: From the gut to the brain. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:947240. [PMID: 35958993 PMCID: PMC9358980 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.947240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inappropriate food intake behavior is one of the main drivers for fat mass development leading to obesity. Importantly the gut microbiota-mediated signals have emerged as key actors regulating food intake acting mainly on the hypothalamus, and thereby controlling hunger or satiety/satiation feelings. However, food intake is also controlled by the hedonic and reward systems leading to food intake based on pleasure (i.e., non-homeostatic control of food intake). This review focus on both the homeostatic and the non-homeostatic controls of food intake and the implication of the gut microbiota on the control of these systems. The gut-brain axis is involved in the communications between the gut microbes and the brain to modulate host food intake behaviors through systemic and nervous pathways. Therefore, here we describe several mediators of the gut-brain axis including gastrointestinal hormones, neurotransmitters, bioactive lipids as well as bacterial metabolites and compounds. The modulation of gut-brain axis by gut microbes is deeply addressed in the context of host food intake with a specific focus on hedonic feeding. Finally, we also discuss possible gut microbiota-based therapeutic approaches that could lead to potential clinical applications to restore food reward alterations. Therapeutic applications to tackle these dysregulations is of utmost importance since most of the available solutions to treat obesity present low success rate.
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Cook TM, Mansuy-Aubert V. Communication between the gut microbiota and peripheral nervous system in health and chronic disease. Gut Microbes 2022; 14:2068365. [PMID: 35482894 PMCID: PMC9067538 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2022.2068365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Trillions of bacteria reside within our gastrointestinal tract, ideally forming a mutually beneficial relationship between us. However, persistent changes in diet and lifestyle in the western diet and lifestyle contribute to a damaging of the gut microbiota-host symbiosis leading to diseases such as obesity and irritable bowel syndrome. Many symptoms and comorbidities associated with these diseases stem from dysfunctional signaling in peripheral neurons. Our peripheral nervous system (PNS) is comprised of a variety of sensory, autonomic, and enteric neurons which coordinate key homeostatic functions such as gastrointestinal motility, digestion, immunity, feeding behavior, glucose and lipid homeostasis, and more. The composition and signaling of bacteria in our gut dramatically influences how our peripheral neurons regulate these functions, and we are just beginning to uncover the molecular mechanisms mediating this communication. In this review, we cover the general anatomy and function of the PNS, and then we discuss how the molecules secreted or stimulated by gut microbes signal through the PNS to alter host development and physiology. Finally, we discuss how leveraging the power of our gut microbes on peripheral nervous system signaling may offer effective therapies to counteract the rise in chronic diseases crippling the western world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler M. Cook
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Virginie Mansuy-Aubert
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA,CONTACT Virginie Mansuy-Aubert Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
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Crawford J, Liu S, Tao F. Gut microbiota and migraine. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2022; 11:100090. [PMID: 35464185 PMCID: PMC9018445 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2022.100090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Migraine is a leading cause of disability among the adult population and is a significant burden on the economies of the world. Studies into the underlying causes of migraine have spanned centuries but its underlying mechanisms are still not fully understood. In recent years, accumulating evidence implicates that microbiota-mediated gut-brain crosstalk may contribute to the pathogenesis of migraine. This review provides a brief account of the history of migraine theories and summarizes the recent studies showing how gut microbiota is involved in the pathophysiology of migraine. Future research perspectives for better understanding the role of the gut microbiota in migraine are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Crawford
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX 75246, USA
| | - Sufang Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX 75246, USA
| | - Feng Tao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX 75246, USA
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Lee AH, Manly A, Dong TS. Leveraging the Microbiome for Obesity: Moving From Form to Function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:918923. [PMID: 35873002 PMCID: PMC9300920 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.918923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of obesity, an ongoing global epidemic, is challenging, as weight-loss efforts require a multidisciplinary approach addressing both behavioral and biologic needs that are not completely understood. Recent studies of the gut microbiome may provide better insight into the condition, and ultimately serve to advance more effective therapies. Research in this field has shifted from analyzing microbiome compositional differences to investigating functional changes that affect disease pathophysiology and outcome. Bacteria-derived metabolites are a way to bridge compositional changes to functional consequences. Through the production of metabolites, such as short chain fatty acids, tryptophan derivatives and bile acids, and interactions with peripheral and central signaling pathways, the gut microbiome may alter the body's metabolic and behavioral responses to food. Here, we summarize these mechanisms driven by gut-derived metabolites, through which the microbiome is thought to contribute to obesity, as well as review recent investigations of interventions related to these metabolites. Limitations of existing research, primarily due to paucity of causal studies in humans, are also discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna H. Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Anna H. Lee,
| | - Amanda Manly
- Department of Medicine, Garden City Hospital, Garden City, MI, United States
| | - Tien S. Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Greater Los Angeles Veterans Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Vatche & Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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