Lactobacillus plantarum bacteriocin is associated with intestinal and systemic improvements in diet-induced obese mice and maintains epithelial barrier integrity in vitro

Safety Assessment of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum GUANKE Based on Whole-Genome Sequencing, Phenotypic, and Anti-Inflammatory Capacity Analysis

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum GUANKE (L. plantarum GUANKE) is a Gram-positive bacterium isolated from the feces of healthy volunteers. Whole-genome sequencing analysis (WGS) revealed that the genome of L. plantarum GUANKE consists of one chromosome and two plasmids, with the chromosome harbors 2955 CDS, 66 tRNAs, and 5 rRNAs. The genome is devoid of virulence factors and Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated (Cas) systems. It contains three intact prophage regions and bacteriocin biosynthesis genes (plantaricins K, F, and E), as well as seventeen genomic islands lacking antibiotic resistance or pathogenicity determinants. Functional prediction outcomes identified that the genome of L. plantarum GUANKE is closely related to transcription, carbohydrate transport and metabolism, and amino acid transport and metabolism. Carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) analysis and GutSMASH analysis revealed that the genome of L. plantarum GUANKE contained 100 carbohydrate-active enzyme genes and two specialized metabolic gene clusters. Safety assessments confirmed that L. plantarum GUANKE neither exhibited β-hemolytic activity nor harbored detectable transferable drug resistance genes. The strain exhibited remarkable acid tolerance and bile salt resistance. Cellular adhesion assays demonstrated moderate binding capacity to Caco-2 intestinal epithelium (4.3 ± 0.007)%. In vitro analyses using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophage models demonstrated that L. plantarum GUANKE significantly suppressed the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β), exhibiting dose-dependent anti-inflammatory activity. In vivo experiments showed that L. plantarum GUANKE was involved in the regulation of the apical junction pathway and interferon pathway in colon tissue of normal mice.

Current status and potential of bacteriocin-producing lactic acid bacteria applied in the food industry

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have been widely applied in the food industry and have brought many beneficial effects on food products, and some of those benefits are related to their metabolic product. Bacteriocins produced by LAB have attracted the attentions for application in the food industry as natural food bio-preservatives because of their antimicrobial activity against the food spoilage and pathogenic bacteria. With the increasing demands of consumers for more healthier food and investigations on natural food preservatives, the bioactivity of bacteriocins allows them to give the application values to the bacteriocin-producing LAB. Accordingly, the capacity of LAB to produce bacteriocin in the aspects of classifications, mode of action, biosynthesis mechanisms are introduced, which leads to further consideration of the current status and potential values of bacteriocin-producing LAB applied in the food industry. The comparation of guidelines of LAB and bacteriocins for food application are also proposed for better understanding their practical application promising. This review will be helpful for current and future researches on the application of bacteriocin-producing LAB in the food industry.

Role of nasal microbiota in regulating host anti-influenza immunity in dogs

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have confirmed a close relationship between the pathogenicity of influenza and respiratory microbiota, but the mechanistic basis for this is poorly defined. Also, the majority of these studies have been conducted on murine models, and it remains unclear how far these findings can be extrapolated from murine models to other animals. Considering that influenza A virus is increasingly recognized as an important canine respiratory pathogen, this study investigated the cross-talk between nasal and lung tissues mediated by microbes and its association with influenza susceptibility in a beagle dog model.

RESULTS

Using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, combined with comparative transcriptomic, anatomical, and histological examinations, we investigated viral presence, gene expression profiles, and microbiota in the nasal cavity and lung after influenza infection in the beagles with antibiotic-induced nasal dysbiosis. Our data showed that dysbiosis of the nasal microbiome exacerbates influenza-induced respiratory disease and the epithelial barrier disruption, and impairs host antiviral responses in the nasal cavity and lung. Moreover, dysregulation of nasal microbiota exacerbates the influenza-induced disturbance in lung microbiota. Further, we also identified a strain of Lactobacillus plantarum isolated from canine nasal cavity with a significant antiviral effect in vitro, and found that its antiviral activity might be associated with the activation of the interferon (IFN) pathway and modulation of the impaired autophagy flux induced by influenza infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Our investigation reveals that nasal microbiota dysbiosis exerts a prominent impact on host antiviral responses, inflammation thresholds, and mucosal barrier integrity during influenza infection. Lactobacilli, as part of the nasal microbiota, may contribute to host antiviral defenses by modulating the IFN and autophagy pathways. Collectively, this study underscores the importance of nasal microbiota homeostasis in maintaining respiratory health. Video Abstract.

The Bacteriocins Produced by Lactic Acid Bacteria and the Promising Applications in Promoting Gastrointestinal Health

Bacteriocins produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are promising bioactive peptides. Intriguingly, bacteriocins have health benefits to the host and may be applied safely in the food industry as bio-preservatives or as therapeutic interventions preventing intestinal diseases. In recent years, finding a safe alternative approach to conventional treatments to promote gut health is a scientific hotspot. Therefore, this review aimed to give insight into the promising applications of LAB-bacteriocins in preventing intestinal diseases, such as colonic cancer, Helicobacter pylori infections, multidrug-resistant infection-associated colitis, viral gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and obesity disorders. Moreover, we highlighted the recent research on bacteriocins promoting gastrointestinal health. The review also provided insights into the proposed mechanisms, challenges and opportunities, trends and prospects. In addition, a SWOT analysis was conducted on the potential applications. Based on properties, biosafety, and health functions of LAB-bacteriocins, we conclude that the future applications of LAB-bacteriocins are promising in promoting gastrointestinal health. Further in vivo trials are needed to confirm these potential effects of LAB-bacteriocins interventions.

The anti-obesity effects of postbiotics: A systematic review of pre-clinical and clinical studies

BACKGROUND

The growing prevalence of obesity has become a major concern worldwide, therefore a great number of studies are conducted every day in the field of obesity. Since postbiotics are a newly introduced term, there is not much systematic evidence about their function and impact on obesity. We designed this study to systematically review the effect of different types of postbiotics on obesity.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases up to August 2023. Both human and animal interventional studies that investigated the effects of any type of postbiotic on obesity and obesity-related factors were eligible. Screening, data extraction, and quality assessment were conducted independently by two researchers. The quality of the studies was appraised using Cochrane and Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation (SYRCLE's) risk of bias tool.

RESULTS

Of the 19373 retrieved studies, finally, 49 studies were included (9 human studies and 40 animal studies). Short-chain fatty acids and heat-killed (inactivated) bacteria were the most used postbiotics. In human clinical trials, inactivated Lactobacillus amylovorus (CP1563), Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (CECT 8145) and Pediococcus pentosaceus (LP28) were administered orally as postbiotics which improved body composition and anthropometric indices. Animal studies evaluated other types of postbiotics including muramyl dipeptide, cell-free extracts, urolithin A&B, extracellular Vesicles, exopolysaccharides, and surface Layer Proteins, supporting the anti-obesity effects of postbiotics.

CONCLUSION

Postbiotics seem to be a safe intervention and the results were in favor of a reduction in adipogenesis as well as an increase in energy expenditure. Further high-quality studies are required in this relatively new topic.

Gut Distribution, Impact Factor, and Action Mechanism of Bacteriocin-Producing Beneficial Microbes as Promising Antimicrobial Agents in Gastrointestinal Infection

Gastrointestinal (GI) infection by intestinal pathogens poses great threats to human health, and the therapeutic use of antibiotics has reached a bottleneck due to drug resistance. The developments of antimicrobial peptides produced by beneficial bacteria have drawn attention by virtue of effective, safe, and not prone to developing resistance. Though bacteriocin as antimicrobial agent in gut infection has been intensively investigated and reviewed, reviews on that of bacteriocin-producing beneficial microbes are very rare. It is important to explicitly state the prospect of bacteriocin-producing microbes in prevention of gastrointestinal infection towards their application in host. This review discusses the potential of gut as an appropriate resource for mining targeted bacteriocin-producing microbes. Then, host-related factors affecting the bacteriocin production and activity of bacteriocin-producing microbes in the gut are summarized. Accordingly, the multiple mechanisms (direct inhibition and indirect inhibition) behind the preventive effects of bacteriocin-producing microbes on gut infection are discussed. Finally, we propose several targeted strategies for the manipulation of bacteriocin-producing beneficial microbes to improve their performance in antimicrobial outcomes. We anticipate an upcoming emergence of developments and applications of bacteriocin-producing beneficial microbes as antimicrobial agent in gut infection induced by pathogenic bacteria.

Whole-genome sequencing and characterization of human fecal isolate Lacticaseibacillus casei LC130 from NORDBIOTIC collection

We report the complete genome sequence of Lacticaseibacillus casei LC130, isolated from a healthy human fecal sample and part of the NORDBIOTIC collection. The 2.969 Mb genome of LC130 includes genes potentially involved in lactose metabolism and the production of bacteriocins, peptidases, and polyamines, suggesting potential health benefits.

Exploring the Potential of Postbiotics for Food Safety and Human Health Improvement

Food safety is a global concern, with millions suffering from foodborne diseases annually. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports significant morbidity and mortality associated with contaminated food consumption, and this emphasizes the critical need for comprehensive food safety measures. Recent attention has turned to postbiotics, metabolic byproducts of probiotics, as potential agents for enhancing food safety. Postbiotics, including organic acids, enzymes, and bacteriocins, exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that do not require live organisms, and this offers advantages over probiotics. This literature review critically examines the role of postbiotics in gut microbiome modulation and applications in the food industry. Through an extensive review of existing literature, this study evaluates the impact of postbiotics on gut microbiome composition and their potential as functional food ingredients. Research indicates that postbiotics are effective in inhibiting food pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica, and Escherichia coli, as well as their ability to prevent oxidative stress-related diseases, and they also show promise as alternatives to conventional food preservatives that can extend food shelf life by inhibiting harmful bacterial growth. Their application in functional foods contributes to improved gut health and reduced risk of foodborne illnesses. Findings suggest that postbiotics hold promise for improving health and preservation by inhibiting pathogenic bacteria growth and modulating immune responses.

Intestinal delivery of encapsulated bacteriocin peptides in cross-linked alginate microcapsules

Oral delivery of larger bioactive peptides (>20 amino acids) to the small intestine remains a challenge due to their sensitivity to proteolytic degradation and chemical denaturation during gastrointestinal transit. In this study, we investigated the capacity of crosslinked alginate microcapsules (CLAMs) formed by spray drying to protect Plantaricin EF (PlnEF) (C-EF) in gastric conditions and to dissolve and release PlnEF in the small intestine. PlnEF is an unmodified, two-peptide (PlnE: 33 amino acids; PlnF: 34 amino acids) bacteriocin produced by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum with antimicrobial and gut barrier protective properties. After 2 h incubation in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) (pH 1.5), 43.39 % ± 8.27 % intact PlnEF was liberated from the CLAMs encapsulates, as determined by an antimicrobial activity assay. Transfer of the undissolved fraction to simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) (pH 7) for another 2 h incubation resulted in an additional release of 16.13 % ± 4.33 %. No active PlnEF was found during SGF or sequential SIF incubations when pepsin (2,000 U/ml) was added to the SGF. To test PlnEF release in C-EF contained in a food matrix, C-EF was mixed in peanut butter (PB) (0.15 g C-EF in 1.5 g PB). A total of 12.52 % ± 9.09 % active PlnEF was detected after incubation of PB + C-EF in SGF without pepsin, whereas no activity was found when pepsin was included. Transfer of the remaining PB + C-EF fractions to SIF yielded the recovery of 46.67 % ± 13.09 % and 39.42 % ± 11.53 % active PlnEF in the SIF following exposure to SGF and to SGF with pepsin, respectively. Upon accounting for the undissolved fraction after SIF incubation, PlnEF was fully protected in the CLAMs-PB mixture and there was not a significant reduction in active PlnEF when pepsin was present. These results show that CLAMs alone do not guard PlnEF bacteriocin peptides from gastric conditions, however, mixing them in PB protected against proteolysis and improved intestinal release.

Bacteriocins attenuate Listeria monocytogenes-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction and inflammatory response

Bacteriocins have the potential to effectively improve food-borne infections or gastrointestinal diseases and hold promise as viable alternatives to antibiotics. This study aimed to explore the antibacterial activity of three bacteriocins (nisin, enterocin Gr17, and plantaricin RX-8) and their ability to attenuate intestinal barrier dysfunction and inflammatory responses induced by Listeria monocytogenes, respectively. Bacteriocins have shown excellent antibacterial activity against L. monocytogenes without causing any cytotoxicity. Bacteriocins inhibited the adhesion and invasion of L. monocytogenes on Caco-2 cells, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER), and cell migration showed that bacteriocin improved the permeability of Caco-2 cells. These results were attributed to the promotion of tight junction proteins (TJP) assembly, specifically zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), occludin, and claudin-1. Furthermore, bacteriocins could alleviate inflammation by inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathways and reducing the secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). Among three bacteriocins, plantaricin RX-8 showed the best antibacterial activity against L. monocytogenes and the most pronounced protective effect on the intestinal barrier due to its unique structure. Based on our findings, we hypothesized that bacteriocins may inhibit the adhesion and invasion of L. monocytogenes by competing adhesion sites. Moreover, they may further enhance intestinal barrier function by inhibiting the expression of L. monocytogenes virulence factors, increasing the expression of TJP and decreasing the secretion of inflammatory factors. Therefore, bacteriocins will hopefully be an effective alternative to antibiotics, and this study provides valuable insights into food safety concerns. KEY POINTS: • Bacteriocins show excellent antibacterial activity against L. monocytogenes • Bacteriocins improve intestinal barrier damage and inflammatory response • Plantaricin RX-8 has the best protective effect on Caco-2 cells damage.

Postbiotics as Metabolites and Their Biotherapeutic Potential

This review highlights the role of postbiotics, which may provide an underappreciated avenue doe promising therapeutic alternatives. The discovery of natural compounds obtained from microorganisms needs to be investigated in the future in terms of their effects on various metabolic disorders and molecular pathways, as well as modulation of the immune system and intestinal microbiota in children and adults. However, further studies and efforts are needed to evaluate and describe new postbiotics. This review provides available knowledge that may assist future research in identifying new postbiotics and uncovering additional mechanisms to combat metabolic diseases.

Two Enterococcus faecium Isolates Demonstrated Modulating Effects on the Dysbiosis of Mice Gut Microbiota Induced by Antibiotic Treatment

Broad-spectrum antibiotics are frequently used to treat bacteria-induced infections, but the overuse of antibiotics may induce the gut microbiota dysbiosis and disrupt gastrointestinal tract function. Probiotics can be applied to restore disturbed gut microbiota and repair abnormal intestinal metabolism. In the present study, two strains of Enterococcus faecium (named DC-K7 and DC-K9) were isolated and characterized from the fecal samples of infant dogs. The genomic features of E. faecium DC-K7 and DC-K9 were analyzed, the carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme)-encoding genes were predicted, and their abilities to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were investigated. The bacteriocin-encoding genes in the genome sequences of E. faecium DC-K7 and DC-K9 were analyzed, and the gene cluster of Enterolysin-A, which encoded a 401-amino-acid peptide, was predicted. Moreover, the modulating effects of E. faecium DC-K7 and DC-K9 on the gut microbiota dysbiosis induced by antibiotics were analyzed. The current results demonstrated that oral administrations of E. faecium DC-K7 and DC-K9 could enhance the relative abundances of beneficial microbes and decrease the relative abundances of harmful microbes. Therefore, the isolated E. faecium DC-K7 and DC-K9 were proven to be able to alter the gut microbiota dysbiosis induced by antibiotic treatment.

Bacteriocins: potentials and prospects in health and agrifood systems

Bacteriocins are highly diverse, abundant, and heterogeneous antimicrobial peptides that are ribosomally synthesized by bacteria and archaea. Since their discovery about a century ago, there has been a growing interest in bacteriocin research and applications. This is mainly due to their high antimicrobial properties, narrow or broad spectrum of activity, specificity, low cytotoxicity, and stability. Though initially used to improve food quality and safety, bacteriocins are now globally exploited for innovative applications in human, animal, and food systems as sustainable alternatives to antibiotics. Bacteriocins have the potential to beneficially modulate microbiota, providing viable microbiome-based solutions for the treatment, management, and non-invasive bio-diagnosis of infectious and non-infectious diseases. The use of bacteriocins holds great promise in the modulation of food microbiomes, antimicrobial food packaging, bio-sanitizers and antibiofilm, pre/post-harvest biocontrol, functional food, growth promotion, and sustainable aquaculture. This can undoubtedly improve food security, safety, and quality globally. This review highlights the current trends in bacteriocin research, especially the increasing research outputs and funding, which we believe may proportionate the soaring global interest in bacteriocins. The use of cutting-edge technologies, such as bioengineering, can further enhance the exploitation of bacteriocins for innovative applications in human, animal, and food systems.

Fermented foods and gastrointestinal health: underlying mechanisms

Although fermentation probably originally developed as a means of preserving food substrates, many fermented foods (FFs), and components therein, are thought to have a beneficial effect on various aspects of human health, and gastrointestinal health in particular. It is important that any such perceived benefits are underpinned by rigorous scientific research to understand the associated mechanisms of action. Here, we review in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo studies that have provided insights into the ways in which the specific food components, including FF microorganisms and a variety of bioactives, can contribute to health-promoting activities. More specifically, we draw on representative examples of FFs to discuss the mechanisms through which functional components are produced or enriched during fermentation (such as bioactive peptides and exopolysaccharides), potentially toxic or harmful compounds (such as phytic acid, mycotoxins and lactose) are removed from the food substrate, and how the introduction of fermentation-associated live or dead microorganisms, or components thereof, to the gut can convey health benefits. These studies, combined with a deeper understanding of the microbial composition of a wider variety of modern and traditional FFs, can facilitate the future optimization of FFs, and associated microorganisms, to retain and maximize beneficial effects in the gut.

Potential of postbiotics for the treatment of metabolic disorders

Postbiotics, the next generation of probiotics, are extracts that are free of living and nonviable bacteria and show strong modulatory effects on the gut flora. Examples include vitamin B12, vitamin K, folate, lipopolysaccharides, enzymes, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), representing a subset of essential nutrients commonly found in the human diet. Postbiotics have been observed to demonstrate antiobesity and antidiabetic effects through a variety of mechanisms. These pathways primarily involve an elevation in energy expenditure, a decrease in the formation and differentiation of adipocytes and food intake, modification of lipid and carbohydrate absorption and metabolism, and regulation of gut dysbiosis. Based on these above effects and mechanisms, the use of postbiotics can be considered as potential strategy for the treatment of metabolic disorders.

Biomolecular Actions by Intestinal Endotoxemia in Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a combination of metabolic disorders that concurrently act as factors promoting systemic pathologies such as atherosclerosis or diabetes mellitus. It is now believed to encompass six main interacting conditions: visceral fat, imbalance of lipids (dyslipidemia), hypertension, insulin resistance (with or without impairing both glucose tolerance and fasting blood sugar), and inflammation. In the last 10 years, there has been a progressive interest through scientific research investigations conducted in the field of metabolomics, confirming a trend to evaluate the role of the metabolome, particularly the intestinal one. The intestinal microbiota (IM) is crucial due to the diversity of microorganisms and their abundance. Consequently, IM dysbiosis and its derivate toxic metabolites have been correlated with MetS. By intervening in these two factors (dysbiosis and consequently the metabolome), we can potentially prevent or slow down the clinical effects of the MetS process. This, in turn, may mitigate dysregulations of intestinal microbiota axes, such as the lung axis, thereby potentially alleviating the negative impact on respiratory pathology, such as the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, the biomolecular mechanisms through which the IM influences the host's metabolism via a dysbiosis metabolome in both normal and pathological conditions are still unclear. In this study, we seek to provide a description of the knowledge to date of the IM and its metabolome and the factors that influence it. Furthermore, we analyze the interactions between the functions of the IM and the pathophysiology of major metabolic diseases via local and systemic metabolome's relate endotoxemia.

Effect of Probiotic Supplementation on Intestinal Permeability in Overweight and Obesity: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials and Animal Studies

Overweight and obesity are associated with increased intestinal permeability, characterized by loss of gut epithelial integrity, resulting in unregulated passage of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and other inflammatory triggers into circulation, i.e., metabolic endotoxemia. In obesity, shifts in the gut microbiome negatively impact intestinal permeability. Probiotics are an intervention that can target the gut microbiome by introducing beneficial microbial species, potentially restoring gut barrier integrity. Currently, the role of probiotic supplementation in ameliorating obesity- and overweight-associated increases in gut permeability has not been reviewed. This systematic review aimed to summarize findings from both animal and clinical studies that evaluated the effect of probiotic supplementation on obesity-induced impairment in intestinal permeability (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews, CRD42022363538). A literature search was conducted using PubMed (Medline), Web of Science, and CAB Direct from origin until August 2023 using keywords of intestinal permeability, overweight or obesity, and probiotic supplementation. Of 920 records, 26 eligible records were included, comprising 12 animal and 14 clinical studies. Clinical trials ranged from 3 to 26 wk and were mostly parallel-arm (n = 13) or crossover (n = 1) design. In both animal and clinical studies, plasma/serum LPS was the most common measure of intestinal permeability. Eleven of 12 animal studies reported a positive effect of probiotic supplementation in reducing intestinal permeability. However, results from clinical trials were inconsistent, with half reporting reductions in serum LPS and half reporting no differences after probiotic supplementation. Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Akkermansia emerged as the most common genera in probiotic formulations among the animal and clinical studies that yielded positive results, suggesting that specific bacteria may be more effective at reducing intestinal permeability and improving gut barrier function. However, better standardization of strain use, dosage, duration, and the delivery matrix is needed to fully understand the probiotic impact on intestinal permeability in individuals with overweight and obesity.

Bacteriocins: Curial guardians of gastrointestinal tract

The human gastrointestinal (GI) tract microbiome secretes various metabolites that play pivotal roles in maintaining host physiological balance and influencing disease progression. Among these metabolites, bacteriocins-small, heat-stable peptides synthesized by ribosomes-are notably prevalent in the GI region. Their multifaceted benefits have garnered significant interest in the scientific community. This review comprehensively explores the methods for mining bacteriocins (traditional separation and purification, bioinformatics, and artificial intelligence), their effects on the stomach and intestines, and their complex bioactive mechanisms. These mechanisms include flora regulation, biological barrier restoration, and intervention in epithelial cell pathways. By detailing each well-documented bacteriocin, we reveal the diverse ways in which bacteriocins interact with the GI environment. Moreover, the future research direction is prospected. By further studying the function and interaction of intestinal bacteriocins, we can discover new pharmacological targets and develop drugs targeting intestinal bacteriocins to regulate and improve human health. It provides innovative ideas and infinite possibilities for further exploration, development, and utilization of bacteriocins. The inevitable fact is that the continuously exploration of bacteriocins is sure to bring the promising future for demic GI health understanding and interference strategy.

Effects of dietary Nisin on growth performance, immune function, and gut health of broilers challenged by Clostridium perfringens

Nisin (Ni) is a polypeptide bacteriocin produced by lactic streptococci (probiotics) that can inhibit the majority of gram-positive bacteria, and improve the growth performance of broilers, and exert antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. The present study investigated the potential preventive effect of Nisin on necrotic enteritis induced by Clostridium perfringens (Cp) challenge. A total of 288 Arbor Acres broiler chickens of 1-d-olds were allocated using 2 × 2 factorial arrangement into four groups with six replicates (12 chickens per replicate), including: (1) control group (Con, basal diet), (2) Cp challenge group (Cp, basal diet + 1.0 × 108 CFU/mL Cp), (3) Ni group (Ni, basal diet + 100 mg/kg Ni), and (4) Ni + Cp group (Ni + Cp, basal diet + 100 mg/kg Ni + 1.0 × 108 CFU/mL Cp). The results showed that Cp challenge decreased the average daily gain (ADG) of days 15 to 21 (P<0.05) and increased interleukin-6 (IL-6) content in the serum (P < 0.05), as well as a significant reduction in villus height (VH) and the ratio of VH to crypt depth (VCR) (P<0.05) and a significant increase in crypt depth (CD) of jejunum (P<0.05). Furthermore, the mRNA expressions of Occludin and Claudin-1 were downregulated (P<0.05), while the mRNA expressions of Caspase3, Caspase9, Bax, and Bax/Bcl-2 were upregulated (P<0.05) in the jejunum. However, the inclusion of dietary Ni supplementation significantly improved body weight (BW) on days 21 and 28, ADG of days 15 to 21 (P<0.05), decreased CD in the jejunum, and reduced tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) content in the serum (P<0.05). Ni addition upregulated the mRNA levels of Claudin-1 expression and downregulated the mRNA expression levels of Caspase9 in the jejunum (P<0.05). Moreover, Cp challenge and Ni altered the cecal microbiota composition, which manifested that Cp challenge decreased the relative abundance of phylum Fusobacteriota and increased Shannon index (P<0.05) and the trend of phylum Proteobacteria (0.05 Collapse

Key Words

• Clostridium perfringens
• broiler
• gut health
• necrotic enteritis
• nisin

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MESH Headings

• Animals
• Clostridium perfringens
• Chickens
• Intestines
• Clostridium Infections/prevention & control
• Clostridium Infections/veterinary
• Clostridium Infections/microbiology
• Nisin/pharmacology
• Claudin-1
• bcl-2-Associated X Protein/pharmacology
• Diet/veterinary
• RNA, Messenger/genetics
• Immunity
• Poultry Diseases/microbiology
• Dietary Supplements
• Animal Feed/analysis

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Affiliation(s)

Hua Yuan College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
Guangdong Bai College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
Yu Lin College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
Xilong Yu College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
Qinghui Yang College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
Renkai Dou College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
Hao Sun College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
Zeyu Zhao College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
Zhongyu Li College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
Zhihui Chen College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
Liangmei Xu College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China

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Postbiotics: Functional Food Materials and Therapeutic Agents for Cancer, Diabetes, and Inflammatory Diseases

Postbiotics are (i) "soluble factors secreted by live bacteria, or released after bacterial lysis, such as enzymes, peptides, teichoic acids, peptidoglycan-derived muropeptides, polysaccharides, cell-surface proteins and organic acids"; (ii) "non-viable metabolites produced by microorganisms that exert biological effects on the hosts"; and (iii) "compounds produced by microorganisms, released from food components or microbial constituents, including non-viable cells that, when administered in adequate amounts, promote health and wellbeing". A probiotic- and prebiotic-rich diet ensures an adequate supply of these vital nutrients. During the anaerobic fermentation of organic nutrients, such as prebiotics, postbiotics act as a benevolent bioactive molecule matrix. Postbiotics can be used as functional components in the food industry by offering a number of advantages, such as being added to foods that are harmful to probiotic survival. Postbiotic supplements have grown in popularity in the food, cosmetic, and healthcare industries because of their numerous health advantages. Their classification depends on various factors, including the type of microorganism, structural composition, and physiological functions. This review offers a succinct introduction to postbiotics while discussing their salient features and classification, production, purification, characterization, biological functions, and applications in the food industry. Furthermore, their therapeutic mechanisms as antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory agents are elucidated.

Physiological and genomic characterization of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum isolated from Indri indri in Madagascar

AIMS

Indri indri is a lemur of Madagascar which is critically endangered. The analysis of the microbial ecology of the intestine offers tools to improve conservation efforts. This study aimed to achieve a functional genomic analysis of three Lactiplantibacillus plantarum isolates from indris.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Samples were obtained from 18 indri; 3 isolates of Lp. plantarum were obtained from two individuals. The three isolates were closely related to each other, with <10 single nucleotide polymorphisms, suggesting that the two individuals shared diet-associated microbes. The genomes of the three isolates were compared to 96 reference strains of Lp. plantarum. The three isolates of Lp. plantarum were not phenotypically resistant to antibiotics but shared all 17 genes related to antimicrobial resistance that are part of the core genome of Lp. plantarum. The genomes of the three indri isolates of Lp. plantarum also encoded for the 6 core genome genes coding for enzymes related to metabolism of hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids. The phenotype for metabolism of hydroxycinnamic acids by indri isolates of Lp. plantarum matched the genotype.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple antimicrobial resistance genes and gene coding for metabolism of phenolic compounds were identified in the genomes of the indri isolates, suggesting that Lp. plantarum maintains antimicrobial resistance in defense of antimicrobial plant secondary pathogens and that their metabolism by intestinal bacteria aids digestion of plant material by primate hosts.

Recent insights of obesity-induced gut and adipose tissue dysbiosis in type 2 diabetes

An imbalance in microbial homeostasis, referred to as dysbiosis, is critically associated with the progression of obesity-induced metabolic disorders including type 2 diabetes (T2D). Alteration in gut microbial diversity and the abundance of pathogenic bacteria disrupt metabolic homeostasis and potentiate chronic inflammation, due to intestinal leakage or release of a diverse range of microbial metabolites. The obesity-associated shifts in gut microbial diversity worsen the triglyceride and cholesterol level that regulates adipogenesis, lipolysis, and fatty acid oxidation. Moreover, an intricate interaction of the gut-brain axis coupled with the altered microbiome profile and microbiome-derived metabolites disrupt bidirectional communication for instigating insulin resistance. Furthermore, a distinct microbial community within visceral adipose tissue is associated with its dysfunction in obese T2D individuals. The specific bacterial signature was found in the mesenteric adipose tissue of T2D patients. Recently, it has been shown that in Crohn's disease, the gut-derived bacterium Clostridium innocuum translocated to the mesenteric adipose tissue and modulates its function by inducing M2 macrophage polarization, increasing adipogenesis, and promoting microbial surveillance. Considering these facts, modulation of microbiota in the gut and adipose tissue could serve as one of the contemporary approaches to manage T2D by using prebiotics, probiotics, or faecal microbial transplantation. Altogether, this review consolidates the current knowledge on gut and adipose tissue dysbiosis and its role in the development and progression of obesity-induced T2D. It emphasizes the significance of the gut microbiota and its metabolites as well as the alteration of adipose tissue microbiome profile for promoting adipose tissue dysfunction, and identifying novel therapeutic strategies, providing valuable insights and directions for future research and potential clinical interventions.

Protective Effects of Bacteriocin-Producing Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on Intestinal Barrier of Mice

Bacteriocins are crucial metabolites of probiotics that display beneficial functions. The intestinal barrier is an important target on which probiotics exert their intestinal health activity. However, the impacts of bacteriocin-producing probiotics on the intestinal barrier are unclear. In this study, the effects of bacteriocin-producing Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Q7 and L. plantarum F3-2 on the intestinal barrier of mice were explored. It was shown that L. plantarum Q7 promoted the expression of mucin MUC2 to enhance the protection provided by the intestinal mucus layer. L. plantarum Q7 up-regulated the gene expression of intestinal tight junction proteins ZO-1 and JAM-1 significantly, and L. plantarum F3-2 up-regulated ZO-1 and Claudin-1 markedly, which exhibited tight junction intestinal barrier function. The two strains promoted the release of IgA and IgG at varying degrees. The antimicrobial peptide gene RegIIIγ was up-regulated markedly, and the gene expression of inflammatory cytokines appeared to exhibit an upward trend with L. plantarum Q7 treatment, so as to enhance intestinal immune regulation function. Furthermore, L. plantarum Q7 and L. plantarum F3-2 increased the abundance of the beneficial bacteria Muribaculaceae, inhibited the growth of the harmful bacteria Parabacteroides, and facilitated the synthesis of total short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which seemed to favor the prevention of metabolic diseases. Our results suggested that L. plantarum Q7 and L. plantarum F3-2 showed strain specificity in their protective effects on the intestinal chemical, physical, immunological and biological barriers of mice, which provided theoretical support for the selective utilization of bacteriocin-producing strains to regulate host health.

Bacteriocin-Producing Lactiplantibacillus plantarum YRL45 Enhances Intestinal Immunity and Regulates Gut Microbiota in Mice

Bacteriocins production is one of important beneficial characteristics of probiotics, which has antibacterial property against intestinal pathogens and is helpful for regulating intestinal flora. To investigate the impact of bacteriocin-producing probiotics on gut microecology, bacteriocin-producing Lactiplantibacillus plantarum YRL45 was orally administered to mice. The results revealed that it promoted the release of cytokines and improved the phagocytic activity of peritoneal macrophages to activate the immune regulation system. L. plantarum YRL45 was conducive to maintaining the morphology of colon tissue without inflammation and increasing the ratio of villus height to crypt depth in the ileum. The gene expression levels of Muc2, ZO-1 and JAM-1 were significantly up-regulated in the ileum and colon, and the gene expression of Cramp presented an upward trend with L. plantarum YRL45 intervention. Moreover, L. plantarum YRL45 remarkably enhanced the levels of immunoglobulins sIgA, IgA and IgG in the intestine of mice. The 16S rRNA gene analysis suggested that L. plantarum YRL45 administration up-regulated the relative abundance of the beneficial bacteria Muribaculaceae and Akkermansia, down-regulated the abundance of the pathogenic bacteria Lachnoclostridium, and promoted the production of acetic acid, propionic acid and total short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in mice feces. Our findings indicated that L. plantarum YRL45 had the potential to be developed as a novel probiotic to regulate the intestinal barrier by altering gut microbiota to enhance intestinal immunity and ameliorate intestinal flora balance.

Bioactive Ingredients in Traditional Fermented Food Condiments: Emerging Products for Prevention and Treatment of Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are severe metabolic diseases due to inappropriate lifestyle and genetic factors and their prevention/treatment cause serious problems. Therefore, searching for effective and safe approaches to control obesity and T2D is an essential challenge. This study presents the knowledge regarding the possible use of traditional fermented condiments (TFC), a known major source of bioactive compounds (BACs), as an adjuvant treatment for obesity and T2D. Data on antiobesity, antidiabetic, and different mechanisms of BACs action of TFC were collected using a methodical search in PubMed, Scopus databases, Web of Science, SciELO, and the Cochrane Library. We discuss the mechanisms by which BCs prevent or treat obesity and T2D. The effects of TFC on obesity and T2D have been found both in animal, human, and clinical studies. The findings demonstrated that BACs in TFC confer potential promising antiobesity and antidiabetic effects. Because of the potential therapeutic significance of bioactive ingredients, the consumption of TFC could be recommended as a functional condiment. Nevertheless, further investigation is required in more clinical studies of TFC to support the formulation of functional fermented condiments and nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications.

Postbiotics against Obesity: Perception and Overview Based on Pre-Clinical and Clinical Studies

Overweight and obesity are significant global public health concerns that are increasing in prevalence at an alarming rate. Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of probiotics against obesity. Postbiotics are the next generation of probiotics that include bacteria-free extracts and nonviable microorganisms that may be advantageous to the host and are being increasingly preferred over regular probiotics. However, the impact of postbiotics on obesity has not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, the goal of this review is to gather in-depth data on the ability of postbiotics to combat obesity. Postbiotics have been reported to have significant potential in alleviating obesity. This review comprehensively discusses the anti-obesity effects of postbiotics in cellular, animal, and clinical studies. Postbiotics exert anti-obesity effects via multiple mechanisms, with the major mechanisms including increased energy expenditure, reduced adipogenesis and adipocyte differentiation, suppression of food intake, inhibition of lipid absorption, regulation of lipid metabolism, and regulation of gut dysbiosis. Future research should include further in-depth studies on strain identification, scale-up of postbiotics, identification of underlying mechanisms, and well-defined clinical studies. Postbiotics could be a promising dietary intervention for the prevention and management of obesity.

Cannabinoids modulate the microbiota-gut-brain axis in HIV/SIV infection by reducing neuroinflammation and dysbiosis while concurrently elevating endocannabinoid and indole-3-propionate levels

BACKGROUND

Although the advent of combination anti-retroviral therapy (cART) has transformed HIV into a manageable chronic disease, an estimated 30-50% of people living with HIV (PLWH) exhibit cognitive and motor deficits collectively known as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). A key driver of HAND neuropathology is chronic neuroinflammation, where proinflammatory mediators produced by activated microglia and macrophages are thought to inflict neuronal injury and loss. Moreover, the dysregulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) in PLWH, consequent to gastrointestinal dysfunction and dysbiosis, can lead to neuroinflammation and persistent cognitive impairment, which underscores the need for new interventions.

METHODS

We performed RNA-seq and microRNA profiling in basal ganglia (BG), metabolomics (plasma) and shotgun metagenomic sequencing (colon contents) in uninfected and SIV-infected rhesus macaques (RMs) administered vehicle (VEH/SIV) or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (THC/SIV).

RESULTS

Long-term, low-dose THC reduced neuroinflammation and dysbiosis and significantly increased plasma endocannabinoid, endocannabinoid-like, glycerophospholipid and indole-3-propionate levels in chronically SIV-infected RMs. Chronic THC potently blocked the upregulation of genes associated with type-I interferon responses (NLRC5, CCL2, CXCL10, IRF1, IRF7, STAT2, BST2), excitotoxicity (SLC7A11), and enhanced protein expression of WFS1 (endoplasmic reticulum stress) and CRYM (oxidative stress) in BG. Additionally, THC successfully countered miR-142-3p-mediated suppression of WFS1 protein expression via a cannabinoid receptor-1-mediated mechanism in HCN2 neuronal cells. Most importantly, THC significantly increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes and Clostridia including indole-3-propionate (C. botulinum, C. paraputrificum, and C. cadaveris) and butyrate (C. butyricum, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Butyricicoccus pullicaecorum) producers in colonic contents.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the potential of long-term, low-dose THC to positively modulate the MGBA by reducing neuroinflammation, enhancing endocannabinoid levels and promoting the growth of gut bacterial species that produce neuroprotective metabolites, like indole-3-propionate. The findings from this study may benefit not only PLWH on cART, but also those with no access to cART and more importantly, those who fail to suppress the virus under cART.

Effect of a Multistrain Probiotic on Feline Gut Health through the Fecal Microbiota and Its Metabolite SCFAs

With the increasing awareness of raising pets following scientific methods, people are becoming increasingly more interested in the nutrition and health of pets, especially their intestinal health, which has become a research hotspot. Both Saccharomyces boulardii and Pediococcus acidilactici are probiotics with strong probiotic properties that can maintain the balance of intestinal flora. However, the role of Saccharomyces boulardii and Pediococcus acidilactici in felines has not been comprehensively studied to date. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of multistrain probiotics consisting of Saccharomyces boulardii and Pediococcus acidilactici on the gut health of felines by modulating gut microbes and the production of metabolite SCFAs. The results show that the multistrain probiotic did not alter the intestinal microbial diversity and structure of short-haired domestic cats, promoted the colonization of beneficial bacteria, increased the levels of microbiota-derived SCFAs and fecal antioxidants, and reduced the levels of fecal inflammatory markers. In conclusion, the use of a multistrain probiotic in healthy, short-haired domestic cats can promote gut health by modulating gut microbes, improving microbiota-derived SCFA production, reducing inflammatory conditions, and improving antioxidant status. These results provide new insights for further exploration of the role of probiotics in the gut microbiome of cats.

Virtual screening of gut microbiome bacteriocins as potential inhibitors of stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 to regulate adipocyte differentiation and thermogenesis to combat obesity

The gut bacterial strains and their metabolites have been shown to play a significant role in obesity, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this association are largely unresolved. Obesity is a multifactorial problem and is controlled by various mechanisms and pathways to produce and store fat cells. Bacteriocins are secondary metabolites produced by gut bacteria to defend themselves against their competitors. Recently, they have gained great attention due to their role in metabolic disorders, including obesity. Stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) is a key enzyme involved in the differentiation of adipocytes. The aim of this study is to show the regulation of SCD1 by bacteriocins and thus their importance in obesity control. We screened the human gut bacteriome for the presence of bacteriocins, predicted their structures, and showed their inhibitory role by molecular docking with SCD1. Further, to confirm the docking results, MDS of six top scoring SCD1-bacteriocin complexes were carried out for 100 ns. These six bacteriocins namely, Plantaricin S-beta, Carnolysin, Lactococcin B, Bacteriocin Iic, Plantaricin N, and Thermophilin A, with strong binding affinities, are primarily produced by bacterial strains from the Lactobacillaeacea family. These findings can be the basis of further experiments for enhanced understanding of the underlying mechanisms for obesity control, specifically bacteriocins driven regulation of the SCD1 enzyme. In addition, a consortium of bacterial strains producing these bacteriocins can be developed and used as probiotics for the amelioration of obesity and other metabolic complications.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

A comparison of mining methods to extract novel bacteriocins from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NWAFU-BIO-BS29

One of the most important challenges in the field of food safety is producing natural and safe substances that act against pathogens in food. Bacteriocins and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have an anti-pathogens effect for both Gram-negative and positive bacteria. The aim of this study was to isolate and characterize safe lactic acid bacteria from traditional Chinese fermented milk that can produce anti-bacterial molecule compounds and does not harm for humans and animals. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NWAFU-BIO-BS29 was found to be safe, lacking 16 genes for virulence factors, biogenic amine production and antibiotic resistance, and no hemolysis activity was observed. In contrast, it has ability to produce a novel potential bacteriocin of Plantaricin Bio-LP1. Precipitation of bacteriocin by Ethyl-acetate proved to be a suitable method for the extraction the bacteriocin. Whilst, the purification steps were performed as follows: the protein purification system (AKTA-Purifier equipped with HiTrap (gel column)), followed by reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) equipped with C18 column. In addition, LC-MS-MS and MALDI-TOF were used to identify the peptide sequences and estimate the molecular weight, respectively. Notably, among the eight peptide sequences considered, a couple of sequences have been announced as uncharacterized in protein database (FDYYFFDKK and KEIDDNSIAVK) with a molecular mass less than 1.3 kDa. The MIC was 0.552 mg/ml and exhibited high stability under various temperature, pH, and enzymes conditions. The best activity was found at temperature and pH of 4 °C and 6 °C, respectively, which are the optimal conditions for preservation of most foods. We concluded that, the described method can arouse a growing interest in mining novel bacteriocins. Plantaricin Bio-LP1 is a potentially unique bacteriocin that is effective as a bio-preservative and could make a promising contribution in food and animal feed industries or in the medical field with further clinical studies.

Microbial metabolites in colorectal tumorigenesis and cancer therapy

Trillions of microbes are indigenous to the human gastrointestinal tract, together forming an ecological community known as the gut microbiota. The gut microbiota is involved in dietary digestion to produce various metabolites. In healthy condition, microbial metabolites have unneglectable roles in regulating host physiology and intestinal homeostasis. However, increasing studies have reported the correlation between metabolites and the development of colorectal cancer (CRC), with the identification of oncometabolites. Meanwhile, metabolites can also influence the efficacy of cancer treatments. In this review, metabolites derived from microbes-mediated metabolism of dietary carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol, are introduced. The roles of pro-tumorigenic (secondary bile acids and polyamines) and anti-tumorigenic (short-chain fatty acids and indole derivatives) metabolites in CRC development are then discussed. The impacts of metabolites on chemotherapy and immunotherapy are further elucidated. Collectively, given the importance of microbial metabolites in CRC, therapeutic approaches that target metabolites may be promising to improve patient outcome.

Comprehensive analysis of the metabolic and genomic features of tannin transforming Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains

Extracellular tannase Lactiplantibacillus plantarum-producing strains (TanA+) release bioactive metabolites from dietary tannins. However, there is a paucity of knowledge of TanA+ strains and their hydrolyzing capacities. This study aimed to shed light on the metabolic and genomic features of TanA+ L. plantarum strains and to develop a screening technique. The established spectrophotometric was validated by UPLC-UV-QToF. Eight of 115 screened strains harbored the tanA gene, and six presented TanA activity (PROBI S126, PROBI S204, RKG 1-473, RKG 1-500, RKG 2-219, and RKG 2-690). When cultured with tannic acid (a gallotannin), TanA+ strains released 3.2-11 times more gallic acid than a lacking strain (WCFS1) (p < 0.05). TanA+ strains with gallate decarboxylase (n = 5) transformed this latter metabolite, producing 2.2-4.8 times more pyrogallol than the TanA lacking strain (p < 0.05). However, TanA+ strains could not transform punicalagin (an ellagitannin). Genomic analysis revealed high similarity between TanA+ strains, as only two variable regions of phage and polysaccharide synthesis were distinguished. A phylogenetic analysis of 149 additional genome sequences showed that tanA harboring strains form a cluster and present two bacteriocin coding sequences profile. In conclusion, TanA+ L. plantarum strains are closely related and possess the ability to resist and transform gallotannins. TanA can be screened by the method proposed herein.

Effects of Astragalus, Epimedium, and Fructus Ligustri Lucidi extractive on antioxidant capacity, production performance, and immune mechanism of breeding pigeons under stress

With the large-scale and intensive development of pigeon breeding industry and the improvement of production level, stress factors have an important impact on the immune, antioxidant capacity, and productivity of pigeons. In this study, the extenuating effect of Astragalus, Epimedium, and Ligustrum lucidum (AEF) on the antioxidant, production performance, and immune mechanism was investigated in breeding pigeons. Eighty pairs of 11-month-old healthy breeding pigeons with the same egg production batch were randomly divided into 4 groups: control group (C group), treated with AEF (AEF group), in restraint stress (S group) and treated with AEF and in restraint stress (S+AEF group). Results showed that AEF reduces weight loss during lactation and increases spleen weight, increased IgA, IgG, T4, GSH-Px, and SOD in serum and decreased T3 and MDA (P < 0.05). Furthermore, treatment with AEF declined HSP60, HSP70, HSP90, GR levels in liver and cFOS, GR mRNA levels in the Hypothalamus, GR mRNA levels in the pituitary (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the results of the intestine studies showed that AEF promoted relative abundances of Firmicutes and relieve intestinal injury in the colon of pigeons. These results indicated AEF enhanced stress resistance, immunity, production performance and antioxidant capacity of pigeons.

Effects of dietary supplementation with multispecies probiotics on intestinal epithelial development and growth performance of neonatal calves challenged with Escherichia coli K99

BACKGROUND

Probiotics exhibit antibiotic properties and are capable of treating certain bacterial infections, including diarrhea. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with multispecies probiotic (MSP) on diarrhea, average daily gain (ADG) and intestinal development of neonatal calves challenged with Escherichia coli K99.

RESULTS

Thirty-six neonatal Holstein calves were randomly assigned to three treatment groups. After E. coli K99 challenge, calves in the control (C) and MSP treatment groups had significantly higher ADG and feed efficiency, and significantly lower fecal scores than those of calves in the diarrhea (D) group. The mean time of diarrhea resolution was 4.5 and 3.1 days for calves in the D and MSP treatment groups, respectively. Furthermore, the structures of the various segments (duodenum, jejunum and ileum) of the small intestine of the calves, activities of several small intestinal enzymes, and expression of several energy metabolism-related genes in the small intestine segments were significantly affected by MSP treatments.

CONCLUSION

Dietary supplementation of MSP had a positive effect in treating calf diarrhea; it improved ADG and feed efficiency and promoted development of the small intestine. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Probiotic Mechanisms Affecting Glucose Homeostasis: A Scoping Review

The maintenance of a healthy status depends on the coexistence between the host organism and the microbiota. Early studies have already focused on the nutritional properties of probiotics, which may also contribute to the structural changes in the gut microbiota, thereby affecting host metabolism and homeostasis. Maintaining homeostasis in the body is therefore crucial and is reflected at all levels, including that of glucose, a simple sugar molecule that is an essential fuel for normal cellular function. Despite numerous clinical studies that have shown the effect of various probiotics on glucose and its homeostasis, knowledge about the exact function of their mechanism is still scarce. The aim of our review was to select in vivo and in vitro studies in English published in the last eleven years dealing with the effects of probiotics on glucose metabolism and its homeostasis. In this context, diverse probiotic effects at different organ levels were highlighted, summarizing their potential mechanisms to influence glucose metabolism and its homeostasis. Variations in results due to different methodological approaches were discussed, as well as limitations, especially in in vivo studies. Further studies on the interactions between probiotics, host microorganisms and their immunity are needed.

Lactobacillus plantarum Alleviates Obesity by Altering the Composition of the Gut Microbiota in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice

Metabolic disorders and intestinal flora imbalance usually accompany obesity. Due to its diverse biological activities, Lactobacillus plantarum is widely used to alleviate various diseases as a probiotic. Here, we show that L. plantarum can reduce the body weight of mice fed high-fat diets, reduce fat accumulation, and enhance mice glucose tolerance. Our results show that L. plantarum can significantly reduce the expression of DGAT1 and DGAT2, increase the expression of Cpt1a, and promote the process of lipid metabolism. Further data show that L. plantarum can increase the SCFA content in the colon and reverse the intestinal flora disorder caused by HFD, increase the abundance of Bacteroides, and Bifidobacteriales, and reduce the abundance of Firmicutes and Clostridiales. Finally, through Pearson correlation analysis, we found that Bacteroides and SCFAs are positively correlated, while Clostridiales are negatively correlated with SCFAs. Therefore, we believe that L. plantarum can regulate the structure of the intestinal microbial community, increase the production of SCFAs and thus regulate lipid metabolism.

Effects of Lactobacillus supplementation on glycemic and lipid indices in overweight or obese adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Recent evidence suggests that gut microbiota may represent an important factor to affect the development of obesity and obesity-related diseases. Although several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have explored the ability of Lactobacillus to improve metabolic parameters in adults who are overweight or obese, their findings have been inconsistent and require further analysis. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the ability of Lactobacillus supplementation to improve glycemic control, the lipid profile, and blood pressure in adults who are overweight or obese.

METHODS

Seven electronic databases and two trial registers were searched up to April 2022 to identify eligible RCTs evaluating the effects of Lactobacillus supplementation in overweight or obese adults. Mean differences (MDs) or standardized mean differences were pooled using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Nine eligible RCTs with 598 participants were included. We found that Lactobacillus supplementation significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (MD -5.27 mg/dL; 95% confidence interval [CI] -8.28, -2.25; P = 0.0006) and total cholesterol (MD -4.84 mg/dL; 95% CI -8.29, -1.39; P = 0.006), particularly when taken in capsule, powder, or tablet form, for 12 weeks, as ≥1 × 10¹⁰ colony forming units/day, or as part of a normal diet. Benefits of Lactobacillus on fasting plasma glucose were seen after 12 weeks of supplementation (MD -1.81 mg/dL; 95% CI -3.08, -0.54; P = 0.005) and on triglycerides when taking a normal diet (MD -14.14 mg/dL; 95% CI -24.38, -3.91; P = 0.007). Lactobacillus had only a short-term beneficial effect on fasting plasma insulin and blood pressure and no significant beneficial effect on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

CONCLUSIONS

Lactobacillus supplementation has a beneficial effect on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol in adults who are overweight or obese, and also on fasting plasma glucose and triglycerides under certain conditions. Therefore, Lactobacillus supplementation represents a promising approach in the management of obesity-related diseases.

Food and gut originated bacteriocins involved in gut microbe-host interactions

The gut microbes interact with each other as well as host, influencing human health and some diseases. Many gut commensals and food originated bacteria produce bacteriocins which can inhibit pathogens and modulate gut microbiota. Bacteriocins have comparable narrow antimicrobial spectrum and are attractive potentials for precision therapy of gut disorders. In this review, the bacteriocins from food and gut microbiomes and their involvement in the interaction between producers and gut ecosystem, along with their characteristics, types, biosynthesis, and functions are described and discussed. Bacteriocins are produced by many intestinal commensals and food microbes among which lactic acid bacteria (many are probiotics) has been paid more attention. Bacteriocin production has been generally regarded as a probiotic trait. They give a competitive advantage to bacteria, enabling their colonization in human gut, and mediating the interaction between the producers and host ecosystem. They fight against unwanted bacteria and pathogens without significant impact on the composition of commensal microbiota. Bacteriocins assist the producers to survive and colonize in the gut microbial populations. There is a great need to evaluate and utilize the potential of bacteriocins for improved therapeutic implications for intestinal health.

Postbiotics as potential new therapeutic agents for metabolic disorders management

The prevalence of obesity, diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and related metabolic disorders has been steadily increasing in the past few decades. Apart from the establishment of caloric restrictions in combination with improved physical activity, there are no effective pharmacological treatments for most metabolic disorders. Many scientific-studies have described various beneficial effects of probiotics in regulating metabolism but others questioned their effectiveness and safety. Postbiotics are defined as preparation of inanimate microorganisms, and/or their components, which determine their safety of use and confers a health benefit to the host. Additionally, unlike probiotics postbiotics do not require stringent production/storage conditions. Recently, many lines of evidence demonstrated that postbiotics may be beneficial in metabolic disorders management via several potential effects including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, anti-carcinogenic, antioxidant, antihypertensive, anti-proliferative, and hypocholesterolaemia properties that enhance both the immune system and intestinal barrier functions by acting directly on specific tissues of the intestinal epithelium, but also on various organs or tissues. In view of the many reports that demonstrated the high biological activity and safety of postbiotics, we summarized in the present review the current findings reporting the beneficial effects of various probiotics derivatives for the management of metabolic disorders and related alterations.

Screening and Probiotic Potential Evaluation of Bacteriocin-Producing Lactiplantibacillus plantarum In Vitro

Probiotics are gaining attention due to their functions of regulating the intestinal barrier and promoting human health. The production of bacteriocins is one of the important factors for probiotics to exert beneficial properties. This study aimed to screen bacteriocin-producing Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and evaluate the probiotic potential in vitro. It was found that L. plantarum Q7, L. plantarum F3-2 and L. plantarum YRL45 could produce bacteriocins and inhibit common intestinal pathogens. These three strains had probiotic potential with tolerance to the gastrointestinal environmental and colonization in the gut, and exhibited various degrees of anti-inflammatory activity and tight junction function in the intestinal barrier. Particularly, L. plantarum YRL45 could significantly (p < 0.05) reduce the increase in nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), thereby easing inflammatory response. L. plantarum F3-2 could remarkably (p < 0.05) up-regulate the expression levels of ZO-1, Occludin and Claudin-1 in intestinal epithelial injured cells, which was conducive to protecting the intestinal barrier. These findings provided fundamental information about the probiotic properties of bacteriocin-producing L. plantarum, which suggested that L. plantarum Q7, L. plantarum F3-2 and L. plantarum YRL45 had the potential to be used as novel probiotic strains.

Bacteriocin-Producing Probiotic Lactic Acid Bacteria in Controlling Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota

Several strains of lactic acid bacteria are potent probiotics and can cure a variety of diseases using different modes of actions. These bacteria produce antimicrobial peptides, bacteriocins, which inhibit or kill generally closely related bacterial strains and other pathogenic bacteria such as Listeria, Clostridium, and Salmonella. Bacteriocins are cationic peptides that kill the target cells by pore formation and the dissipation of cytosolic contents, leading to cell death. Bacteriocins are also known to modulate native microbiota and host immunity, affecting several health-promoting functions of the host. In this review, we have discussed the ability of bacteriocin-producing probiotic lactic acid bacteria in the modulation of gut microbiota correcting dysbiosis and treatment/maintenance of a few important human disorders such as chronic infections, inflammatory bowel diseases, obesity, and cancer.

Impact of Food Origin Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Strains on the Human Intestinal Microbiota in an in vitro System

We have previously isolated and characterized food-dwelling strains of Lactiplantibacillus (Lpb.) plantarum that are consumed naturally as part of the microbiota of table olives and raw milk cheeses. Despite being consumed at relatively high levels, the impact of such strains on the human gut microbiota is currently unclear. In the current study we evaluated the potential impact of food-dominant Lpb. plantarum strains on the human gut microbiota using a continuous fecal fermentation system. Daily inoculation of Lpb. plantarum strains led to significant, detectable levels in the fecal fermentation system. We examined the impact of the presence of Lpb. plantarum on the microbiota derived from two separate donors. For one donor, Lpb. plantarum increased alpha diversity and beta diversity. This was reflected in significant alterations in abundance of the unclassified genera, dominated by Enterobacteriaceae_unclass and Ruminococcaceae_unclass. The microbiota of the other donor was relatively unaffected following introduction of the Lpb. plantarum strains. Overall, the work describes the response of the human microbiota to the introduction of high levels of food-dominant Lpb. plantarum strains and indicates that the response may reflect interindividual differences between donor samples.

Cytoprotective Effects of Lactobacilli on Mouse Epithelial Cells during Salmonella Infection

Treatment of common pathogens, such as Salmonella species, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, etc., is a big challenge for a practitioner. Antibiotics’ side effects during their application for the treatment of infectious diseases should not be underestimated as they have many issues, such as the transfer of antibiotics-resistant genes, dysbiosis, and antibiotic-resistant strains, which is the main hurdle in the eradication of diseases. To avoid these antibiotics complications, in modern countries, the interest of using probiotics in feed supplementation to promote health and prevent or treat intestinal infectious diseases has been increasing. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the probiotic potential of three Lactobacilli strains isolated from clinically healthy dogs for their further utilization as a dietary supplement for dogs to avoid pathogenic and antibiotic complication. After 16SrRNA sequencing, in vitro tests were conducted to assess the survival potential of Lactobacilli under simulated gastrointestinal conditions and adhesion ability to the MODE-K cell line, effects on epithelial barrier function, anti-inflammatory activities, effects on host defensin peptides (beta-defensin 3), and inhibitory effects on common pathogens. Lactobacilli showed considerable potential to survive in simulated gastrointestinal environmental conditions, low pH, and high bile salt concentrations along with good adhesion properties with MODE-K cells. Pathogenic bacterial growth and their adhesion to MODE-K cells were significantly inhibited by Lactobacilli. Real-time PCR analyses further demonstrated that the L. acidophilus strain AR1 and AR3 inhibit Salmonella-induced proinflammatory cytokine (IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β) production and reinforce the expression of tight junction protein (occludin). None of the strains induce mRNA expression of beta-defensin 3 in MODE-K cells. Based on the in vitro results, the L. acidophilus strain AR1 has the potential to be supplemented in canine feed. However, further in vivo studies investigating health-promoting effects are awaited.

Effects of Multispecies Probiotic on Intestinal Microbiota and Mucosal Barrier Function of Neonatal Calves Infected With E. coli K99

Altered gut microbiota are implicated in inflammatory neonatal calf diarrhea caused by E. coli K99. Beneficial probiotics are used to modulate gut microbiota. However, factors that mediate host-microbe interactions remain unclear. We evaluated the effects of a combination of multispecies probiotics (MSP) on growth, intestinal epithelial development, intestinal immune function and microbiota of neonatal calves infected with E. coli K99. Twelve newborn calves were randomly assigned as follows: C (control, without MSP); D (E. coli O78:K99 + gentamycin); and P (E. coli O78:K99 + supplemental MSP). All groups were studied for 21 d. MSP supplementation significantly (i) changed fungal Chao1 and Shannon indices of the intestine compared with group D; (ii) reduced the relative abundance of Bacteroides and Actinobacteria, while increasing Bifidobacteria, Ascomycetes, and Saccharomyces, compared with groups C and D; (iii) improved duodenal and jejunal mucosal SIgA and total Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFA) concentrations compared with group D; (iv) increased relative ZO-1 and occludin mRNA expression in jejunal mucosa compared with group D; and (v) enhanced intestinal energy metabolism and defense mechanisms of calves by reducing HSP90 expression in E. coli K99, thereby alleviating the inflammatory response and promoting recovery of mucosal function. Our research may provide direct theoretical support for future applications of MSP in ruminant production.

Comparative evaluation for phytochemical composition and regulation of blood glucose, hepatic oxidative stress and insulin resistance in mice and HepG2 models of four typical Chinese dark teas

BACKGROUND

Dark tea, comprising one of the six major teas, has many biological activities, which originate from their active substrates, such as polyphenols, polysaccharides, and so on. The hypoglycemic effect is one of its most prominent activities, although less is known about their evaluation and potential role in the hypoglycemic mechanism.

RESULTS

In the present study, we separately analyzed the phytochemical composition, glycosidase inhibition and free radical scavenging activities, and hypoglycemic activity in type 2 diabetes mellitus mice, as well as the alleviation of insulin resistance in HepG2 cells of four dark tea aqueous extracts. The results showed that the phytochemical composition of dark tea aqueous extracts was significantly different, and they all had good glycosidase inhibition and free radical scavenging activities, in vivo hypoglycemic activity and alleviation of insulin resistance, and could also activate the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt-perixisome proliferation-activated receptor cascade signaling pathway to regulate glucose and lipid metabolism, change the key enzyme activities related to glucose metabolism and antioxidant activity, and reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory factor levels. Among them, Liubao brick tea (LBT) and Pu-erh tea (PET) possessed better glycosidase inhibitory activity, in vivo hypoglycemic activity and improved insulin resistance activity, whereas Qingzhuan brick tea and Fuzhuan brick tea had better free radical scavenging activity, which may be explained by their distinct phytochemical compositions, such as tea proteins, polysaccharides, polyphenols, catechins, and tea pigments and some elements.

CONCLUSION

Dark tea is a highly attractive candidate for developing antidiabetic food, LBT and PET may be good natural sources of agricultural products with anti-diabetic effects. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

α-globulin-rich rice cultivar, low glutelin content-1 (LGC-1), decreases serum cholesterol concentration in exogenously hypercholesterolemic rats

BACKGROUND

Rice α-globulin has been reported to have serum cholesterol-lowering activity in rats. However, it is still unclear whether α-globulin exerts this effect when taken as one of the dietary components. In the present study, we investigated the effect of two cultivars of rice, low glutelin content (LGC)-1 and LGC-Jun, on reducing serum cholesterol in exogenously hypercholesterolemic (ExHC) rats. LGC-1 is enriched in α-globulin (10.6 mg g-1 rice flour, which is an approximately 1.5 times higher α-globulin content than in Koshihikari a predominant rice cultivar in Japan), whereas LGC-Jun is a globulin-negative cultivar.

METHODS

ExHC rats, the model strain of diet-induced hypercholesterolemia, were fed 50% LGC-1 or LGC-Jun and 0.5% cholesterol-containing diets for 2 weeks, followed by measurement of cholesterol metabolism parameters in serum and tissues.

RESULTS

Serum cholesterol and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were significantly lower in the LGC-1 group compared to the LGC-Jun group. Cholesterol intestinal absorption markers, hepatic and serum levels of campesterol and β-sitosterol, and lymphatic cholesterol transport were not different between the two groups. Levels of 7α-hydroxycholesterol, an intermediate of bile acid synthesis, showed a downward trend in the livers of rats that were fed LGC-1 (P = 0.098). There was a significant decrease in the hepatic mRNA expression of Cyp7a1 (a synthetic enzyme for 7α-hydroxycholesterol) in the LGC-1 group compared to the LGC-Jun group.

CONCLUSION

Dietary LGC-1 significantly decreased serum cholesterol levels in ExHC rats. The possible mechanism for the cholesterol-lowering activity of LGC-1 is partial inhibition of bile acid and cholesterol synthesis in the liver. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Probiotics-Mediated Bioconversion and Periodontitis

Novel bioactive metabolites have been developed through a bioconversion of dairy products or other foods using probiotics isolated from dairy products or other fermented foods. These probiotics-mediated bioconversion (PMB) metabolites show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, epithelial barrier, and anticancer activities. In addition, the effect of PMB metabolites in periodontitis is recently reported in several studies. Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by infections, and the tooth support tissue is destroyed. Common treatments for periodontitis include scaling and root planning with systemic antibiotics. However, the overuse of antibiotics has led to the emergence of drug-resistant microorganisms and disturbs the beneficial bacteria, including lactobacilli in the oral cavity. For this reason, PMB metabolites, such as fermented milk, have been suggested as substitutes for antibiotics to reduce periodontitis. This paper reviews the recent studies on the correlation between periodontitis and PMB metabolites and classifies the efficacy of major PMB metabolites for periodontitis. The review suggests that PMB is effective for periodontitis, and further studies are needed to confirm the therapeutic effect of PMB metabolites on periodontitis.

The probiotic potential of Lactobacillus plantarum strain RW1 isolated from canine faeces

AIM

To evaluation the probiotic potential of Lactobacillus plantarum strain RW1 isolated from healthy dogs for its further utilization as a dietary supplement for dogs.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This study aimed to evaluate the probiotic potential of L. plantarum strain RW1 isolated from canine faeces. After confirming by conventional and then by 16S rRNA sequencing, the identified strain RW1 was in vitro screened for its survivability in simulated gastrointestinal conditions, low pH, bile salts and adhesion to gut epithelial tissues, growth inhibitory effects on common pathogens and anti-inflammatory potential by measuring the mRNA expression level of IL-6, IL-8, IL-1ꞵ in Salmonella-infected MODE-K cells. Furthermore, the effects on epithelial barrier function and host defensin peptide (beta-defensin 3) was studied by measuring the mRNA expression level of tight junction protein (occludin) and beta-defensin 3 in MODE-K cells. The strain RW1 showed a considerable potential to survive in simulated gastrointestinal environmental conditions, low pH and high bile salt concentrations along with good adhesion to MODE-K cell line. Pathogenic bacterial growth and their adhesion to MODE-K cell line were significantly inhibited by the strain RW1. Real-time PCR analyses demonstrated that the strain RW1 inhibited Salmonella-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8 and IL-1ꞵ) production and reinforced the expression of tight junction protein (occludin). The strain RW1 did not induce mRNA expression of beta-defensin 3.

CONCLUSION

Based on in vitro results, the strain RW1 has the potential to be used as a probiotic supplement in dogs. However, further study involving in vivo health effects is needed.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Antibiotics have many side effects and nowadays the probiotics are considered as a potential alternative to antibiotics. This study evaluates the probiotic potential of dog isolated L. plantarum strain RW1 to use it as a dietary supplement in dogs feeding to control infectious diseases.

Probiotics for periodontal health-Current molecular findings

Dysbiosis of the oral microbiome is associated with a variety of oral and systemic diseases, including periodontal disease. Oral dysbiosis in periodontal disease leads to an exacerbated host immune response that induces progressive periodontal tissue destruction and ultimately tooth loss. To counter the disease‐associated dysbiosis of the oral cavity, strategies have been proposed to reestablish a “healthy” microbiome via the use of probiotics. This study reviews the literature on the use of probiotics for modifying the oral microbial composition toward a beneficial state that might alleviate disease progression. Four in vitro and 10 preclinical studies were included in the analysis, and these studies explored the effects of probiotics on cultured biofilm growth and bacterial gene expressions, as well as modulation of the host response to inflammation. The current molecular findings on probiotics provide fundamental evidence for further clinical research for the use of probiotics in periodontal therapy. They also point out an important caveat: Changing the biofilm composition might alter the normal oral flora that is beneficial and/or critical for oral health.