The effects of the probiotic cocktail on modulation of the NF-kB and JAK/STAT signaling pathways involved in the inflammatory response in bowel disease model

The gut-eye axis: from brain neurodegenerative diseases to age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is a serious neurodegenerative disease of the retina that significantly impacts vision. Unfortunately, the specific pathogenesis remains unclear, and effective early treatment options are consequently lacking. The microbiome is defined as a large ecosystem of microorganisms living within and coexisting with a host. The intestinal microbiome undergoes dynamic changes owing to age, diet, genetics, and other factors. Such dysregulation of the intestinal flora can disrupt the microecological balance, resulting in immunological and metabolic dysfunction in the host, and affecting the development of many diseases. In recent decades, significant evidence has indicated that the intestinal flora also influences systems outside of the digestive tract, including the brain. Indeed, several studies have demonstrated the critical role of the gut-brain axis in the development of brain neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Similarly, the role of the "gut-eye axis" has been confirmed to play a role in the pathogenesis of many ocular disorders. Moreover, age-related macular degeneration and many brain neurodegenerative diseases have been shown to share several risk factors and to exhibit comparable etiologies. As such, the intestinal flora may play an important role in age-related macular degeneration. Given the above context, the present review aims to clarify the gut-brain and gut-eye connections, assess the effect of intestinal flora and metabolites on age-related macular degeneration, and identify potential diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies. Currently, direct research on the role of intestinal flora in age-related macular degeneration is still relatively limited, while studies focusing solely on intestinal flora are insufficient to fully elucidate its functional role in age-related macular degeneration. Organ-on-a-chip technology has shown promise in clarifying the gut-eye interactions, while integrating analysis of the intestinal flora with research on metabolites through metabolomics and other techniques is crucial for understanding their potential mechanisms.

Clostridium butyricum Regulates the Inflammatory and Immunoregulatory Pathway Through NFKB1 in Colorectal Cancer Treatment

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks among the top three most prevalent malignancies globally and is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Traditional therapeutic approaches usually cause significant adverse effects, highlighting the urgent demand for alternative, more effective treatments. Probiotics have gained attentions as potential cancer therapy due to their beneficial impacts on host health. Clostridium butyricum (Cl. butyricum) has shown anticancer properties in recent studies, though the underlying mechanisms remain inadequately understood. This study presents an integrative analysis of network pharmacology and proteomics to elucidate the key targets of Cl. butyricum in CRC treatment. The network pharmacology analysis identified 72 overlapping genes, and functional analysis of these genes indicated that most pathways were related to pathways in cancer and inflammation, and butyrate emerging as the pivotal product of Cl. butyricum due to its strong associations with the identified hub genes. In parallel, proteomics analysis revealed 168 differential expressed proteins (DEPs) in Cl. butyricum-treated HCT-116 cells, comprising 78 upregulated and 90 downregulated proteins. These DEPs were primarily enriched in apoptosis and inflammatory pathways. PPI analysis further highlighted NFKB1 as key contributors to the anticancer effects of Cl. butyricum. The integrative analysis revealed a significant convergence of pathways enrichment patterns, particularly in inflammatory and immune-related pathways. Computational and experimental validation identified NFKB1 as a pivotal molecular target in CRC intervention. These collective findings elucidate the mechanistic basis of the antitumor properties of Cl. butyricum, highlighting its regulatory effects on NFKB1 through both inflammatory and, to a lesser extent, immunoregulatory pathways.

Native potential probiotics and postbiotics improve the gut-kidney axis by the modulation of autophagy signaling pathway

The gut-kidney axis is the bidirectional relationship between the gut microbiota and the kidney function. Chronic inflammatory responses can impair kidney function and probiotics and postbiotics agents can have positive effects on gut health and kidney function by modulating inflammation through affecting autophagy signaling pathway. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the properties of our probiotic and postbiotics to improve kidney health by focusing the autophagy signaling pathway. The probiotic and postbiotics of four Lactobacillus and two Bifidobacterium strains were selected. Dextran sulfate sodium induced colitis in mice, and probiotics and postbiotics treatments were accomplished in animal experiment. A qPCR assay was performed to assess the gene expression involved in the autophagy process in the kidney. In contrast to the dextran sulfate sodium group, both the probiotic and postbiotics cocktails exhibited the capacity to inhibit colitis-associated indicators. Of note, the postbiotics cocktails demonstrated a greater efficacy in preventing colitis-related indicators and also it could display a more pronounced effect in upregulating autophagy-related genes. Our native potential probiotics and postbiotics can be able to reduce gut inflammation and cope with kidney inflammation by triggering autophagy signaling pathway through the considerable impact on gut-organ axis. There is an encouraging concept about the anti-inflammatory effects of our probiotics and postbiotics cocktails with least side effects as a supplementary treatment not only in the gut, but also in the other organs particularly kidneys.

Impact of Native Probiotics on Autophagy and Oxidative Stress in Nickel-Exposed Mice: Insights Into the Gut-Brain Axis

BACKGROUND

The gut-brain axis plays a crucial role in mitigating the adverse effects of environmental agents such as nickel exposure. Nickel, recognized as a heavy metal, poses significant concerns for public health because of its impact on neurological disorders and oxidative stress; consequently, it is prioritized for evaluations of its effects on biological pathways. This study investigates the potential of native probiotic strains to modulate inflammatory and autophagy signaling pathways, which are vital for combating oxidative stress.

METHODS

Twenty male NMRI mice were divided into 4 groups randomly and were gavaged with NiCl2, followed by administration of a probiotic cocktail that consisted of 4 native probiotic Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. Brain tissues from these treated mice were collected to analyze the expression of autophagy-related genes involved in phagophore, autophagosome, and autolysosome formation using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

RESULTS

Our findings demonstrated that treatment with this cocktail of native probiotic Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. significantly increased the expression of autophagy genes compared to the control group exposed to NiCl2 alone. Specifically, there was a notable upregulation in genes associated with autophagic processes, indicating that these probiotic strains effectively activated autophagy pathways in response to nickel-induced oxidative stress.

CONCLUSION

The beneficial effects of our native probiotic strains were confirmed through enhanced expression of autophagy genes and reduced neuroinflammation, suggesting their potential as therapeutic agents in mitigating the adverse impacts of nickel exposure on brain health via modulation of the gut-brain axis.

Evolution of the PE_PGRS Proteins of Mycobacteria: Are All Equal or Are Some More Equal than Others?

PE_PGRS domain proteins represent a family of proteins found in pathogenic and non-pathogenic mycobacteria such as M. smegmatis. This conserved family is characterized by two distinct regions denoted as the variable PGRS domain defined by glycine-rich repeats, and a PE domain consisting of two antiparallel alpha-helices. There are many indications that PE_PGRS proteins are involved in immunopathogenesis and virulence by evading or triggering the host immune response. However, there is not yet any information on their degree of specialization or redundancy. Computational analysis and structural annotation using AlphaFold3 combined with other tools reveals an exceptionally powerful and unprecedented ability to undergo phase separation by the PGRS domain. This suggests that PGRS's glycine-rich, multivalent, low-complexity composition supports phase separation while adopting a structured conformation, contrary to the disordered nature typical of such domains. While previously never reported, the hypothesized role of PGRS in virulence indicates a novel window into the seemingly ubiquitous role of phase separation in cellular compartmentalization and molecular dynamics. This review aims to summarize the current understanding of the PE_PGRS family and its various biological roles in the context of bioinformatic analyses of some interesting representatives of M. marinum that are under control by host sterols. Based on the structural bioinformatics analysis, we discuss future approaches to uncover the mechanistic role of this intriguing family of mycobacterial proteins in both pathogenic and non-pathogenic mycobacteria.

Genetically Engineered Bacteria as a Promising Therapeutic Strategy Against Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

As a significant cause of global mortality, the cancer has also economic impacts. In the era of cancer therapy, mitigating side effects and costs and overcoming drug resistance is crucial. Microbial species can grow inside the tumor microenvironment and inhibit cancer growth through direct killing of tumor cells and immunoregulatory effects. Although microbiota or their products have demonstrated anticancer effects, the possibility of acting as pathogens and exerting side effects in certain individuals is a risk. Hence, several genetically modified/engineered bacteria (GEB) have been developed to this aim with ability of diagnosing and selective targeting and destruction of cancers. Additionally, GEB are expected to be considerably more efficient, safer, more permeable, less costly, and less invasive theranostic approaches compared to wild types. Potential GEB strains such as Escherichia coli (Nissle 1917, and MG1655), Salmonella typhimurium YB1 SL7207 (aroA gene deletion), VNP20009 (∆msbB/∆purI) and ΔppGpp (PTet and PBAD), and Listeria monocytogenes Lmat-LLO have been developed to combat cancer cells. When used in tandem with conventional treatments, GEB substantially improve the efficacy of anticancer therapy outcomes. In addition, public acceptance, optimal timing (s), duration (s), dose (s), and strains identification, interactions with other strains and the host cells, efficacy, safety and quality, and potential risks and ethical dilemmas include major challenges.

A comprehensive review on probiotics and their use in aquaculture: Biological control, efficacy, and safety through the genomics and wet methods

Probiotics, defined as viable microorganisms that enhance host health when consumed through the diet, exert their effects through mechanisms such as strengthening the immune system, enhancing resistance to infectious diseases, and improving tolerance to stressful conditions. Driven by a growing market, research on probiotics in aquaculture is a burgeoning field. However, the identification of new probiotics presents a complex challenge, necessitating careful consideration of both the safety and efficacy of the microorganisms employed. This review aims to delineate the most utilized and effective methods for identifying probiotics. The most effective approach currently combines in silico analysis of genomic sequences with in vitro and in vivo experiments. Two main categories of genetic traits are analyzed using bioinformatic tools: those that could harm the host or humans (e.g., toxin production, antibiotic resistance) and those that offer benefits (e.g., production of helpful compounds, and enzymes). Similarly, in vitro experiments allow us to examine the safety of a probiotic but also its effectiveness (e.g., ability to adhere to epithelia). Finally, in vivo experiments allow us to study the effect of probiotics on fish growth and health, including the ability of the probiotic to manipulate the host's microbiota and the ability to mitigate the infections. This review comprehensively analyzes these diverse aspects, with a particular focus on the potential of studying the interaction between bacterial pathogens and probiotics through these integrated methods.

Health benefits, antimicrobial activities, and potential applications of probiotics: A review

Gut microbiota and its metabolic activities can influence the physiology and pathology of the human body. It is well established that alterations in the balance of living microbiota can contribute to various health problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune disorders. Probiotics administered in sufficient quantities as functional food ingredients provide health benefits to hosts. They help to maintain the stability and composition of the gut microbiota and provide resistance to infection by pathogens. The most important probiotic bacteria are Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacteria spp., which protect the intestine through various mechanisms such as the production of organic acids and bacteriocins. Scientific and clinical research has demonstrated that probiotics play a role in modulating immune response and preventing cancer and chronic inflammatory diseases, especially in the gastrointestinal tract. This article summarizes the potential health benefits, antimicrobial activities, and purposes for which probiotics can be used as functional foods to improve human health.

Comparison of novel native probiotics and paraprobiotics in modulating oxidative stress and inflammation in DSS-induced colitis: implications for enhanced therapeutic strategies in high fat diet

AIM

IBD is a condition that may result from the presence of oxidative stress. The objective of this research is to evaluate and compare the potency of probiotics and paraprobiotics to modulate oxidative stress and inflammation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In the initial phase, the antioxidant capabilities of 88 strains from Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium were evaluated. In the subsequent phase, during the in-vivo stage, four experimental groups were established, consisting of a high-fat diet (HFD) + PBS, HFD + DSS, HFD + DSS + 10^9 cfu/ml of 6 selected native probiotic, and HFD + DSS + 10^9 cfu/ml of paraprobiotic (from 6 selected strains), with male wild-type C57BL/6 mice being assigned to these groups. The phenotypical indices and pathological scores along with the evaluation of the expression of genes associated with the NF-kB and Nrf2 signaling pathways, as well as enzymes linked to oxidant/anti-oxidant activities, and proinflammatory/inflammatory cytokines were performed. A significant difference was noted among the groups exposed to DSS and groups that given our native agents. The mice receiving a blend of probiotics and paraprobiotics alongside DSS demonstrated a mitigation of the harmful impacts caused by DSS, both regarding phenotypic traits, including pathological scores and also the level of cytokines and antioxidant markers and also molecular indicators like the Nrf2 and NF-kB associated genes. Also, there was no notable difference between our native probiotic and paraprobiotic.

CONCLUSION

The study's findings provide evidence that the expression of inflammation can be successfully alleviated by utilizing our native probiotics and paraprobiotics, with a greater emphasis on the latter due to its inherent safety.

IMPACT STATEMENTS

This study highlighted the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of probiotic and paraprobiotic that could be useful for patients with inflammatory status.

Supplementation of Yupingfeng polysaccharides in low fishmeal diets enhances intestinal health through influencing the intestinal barrier, immunity, and microflora in Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a low-fishmeal diet (LF, substituting soybean meal for 40% fish meal) and the supplementation of 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg Yu Ping Feng (YPF) polysaccharides on the growth performance, antioxidant enzyme activities, intestinal ultrastructure, non-specific immunity, and microbiota of Macrobrachium rosenbergii.

Methods

The study involved the administration of different diets to M. rosenbergii, including a control diet, a low-fishmeal diet (LF), and LF diets supplemented with 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg YPF polysaccharides. Growth performance, antioxidant enzyme activities, intestinal ultrastructure, non-specific immunity, and microbiota were assessed.

Results

The LF diet significantly reduced growth performance parameters compared to the control group. However, YPF supplementation notably improved these parameters, with the greatest improvement observed at a 1000 mg/kg dosage. Antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, GSH-PX) were diminished in the LF group, accompanied by elevated MDA levels, whereas YPF supplementation restored these activities and reduced MDA levels. Ultrastructural analysis revealed that the LF diet caused intestinal villi detachment and peritrophic matrix (PM) shedding, which were alleviated by YPF. Gene expression related to PM formation (GS, CHS, EcPT) was downregulated in the LF group but significantly upregulated in the 1000P group. Non-specific immune gene expressions (IMD, Relish, IκBα) and enzyme activities (NO, iNOS) were suppressed in the LF group but enhanced by YPF supplementation. Microbial community analysis showed reduced diversity and altered composition in the LF group, with increased Proteobacteria and decreased Firmicutes, which were partially restored by YPF. Correlation analysis revealed that Lactobacillus and Chitinibacter play pivotal roles in regulating intestinal health. Lactobacillus exhibited a positive relationship with the intestinal PM and immune-related indicators, whereas Chitinibacter was negatively associated with these factors.

Discussion

These results highlight the adverse impacts of a low-fishmeal diet on the intestinal health of M. rosenbergii and demonstrate the beneficial effects of YPF polysaccharides in alleviating these negative consequences through various mechanisms, including improved growth performance, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities, restored intestinal ultrastructure, and modulated immune responses. The findings suggest that YPF supplementation could be a valuable strategy for mitigating the negative effects of low-fishmeal diets in aaquaculture.

Anti-inflammatory properties of Bacillus pumilus TS1 in lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory damage in broilers

This study investigates whether Bacillus pumilus TS1 improves growth performance and alleviates inflammatory damage in broilers and explored its feasibility as an antibiotic alternative. We divided 240 one-day-old AA308 white-finned broilers into five groups (con, LPS, TS1L + LPS, TS1M + LPS and TS1H + LPS). The TS1L + LPS, TS1M + LPS and TS1H + LPS groups were fed TS1 for 15 days by gavage. The LPS, TS1L + LPS, TS1M + LPS and TS1H + LPS groups were injected intraperitoneally with 1 mg/kg LPS for three days. We investigated the probiotic and anti-inflammatory activities by measuring body weight, sequencing the intestinal flora and examining the structure of tissues by using pathological stain, real-time PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemical detection. TS1 could improve growth performance and intestinal flora composition, also reduced different organ damage and inflammatory cytokine expression in serum and organs. The mechanism may involve upregulating HSP60 and HSP70 expression, targeting and regulating Nrf2 and P38 MAPK and modulating NF-κB and HO-1 expression at the transcriptional level in different organs. B. pumilus TS1 alleviated Inflammatory injury caused by LPS and attenuated the inflammatory response in broilers, and these effects were achieved through MAPK and Nrf2 regulation of HSPs/HO-1 in different organs. The above results suggested broilers fed with TS1 could release the LPS caused organ damage, and the most suggested dosage was 1.4 × 108 CFU/mL.

Inflammatory Modulation Effects of Probiotics: A Safe and Promising Modulator for Cancer Prevention

Chronic inflammation is the gate of many human illnesses and happens when the immune system is unable to suppress external attacks in the correct form. Nonetheless, the gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in keeping homeostasis in the human body and preventing inflammation. Imbalanced microbiota and many diseases can result in inflammation, which when not taken seriously, can be turned into chronic ones and ultimately lead to serious diseases such as cancer. One approach to maintaining hemostasis in the human body is consumption of probiotics as a supplement. Probiotics impact the immune functions of dendritic cells (DCs), T cells, and B cells in the gut-associated lymphoid tissue by inducing the secretion of an array of cytokines. They activate the innate immune response through their microbial-associated molecular pattern, and this activation is followed by multiple cytokine secretion and adaptive elicitation that mitigates pro-inflammatory expression levels and tumor incidence. Thus, according to several studies showing the benefit of probiotics application, alone or in combination with other agents, to induce potent immune responses in individuals against some inflammatory disorders and distinct types of cancers, this review is devoted to surveying the role of probiotics and the modulation of inflammation in some cancer models.

From Gut to Eye: Exploring the Role of Microbiome Imbalance in Ocular Diseases

Background: The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in human health, and recent research has highlighted its potential impact on ocular health through the gut-eye axis. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut microbiota, has been implicated in various ocular diseases. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using relevant keywords in major electronic databases, prioritizing recent peer-reviewed articles published in English. Results: The gut microbiota influences ocular health through immune modulation, maintenance of the blood-retinal barrier, and production of beneficial metabolites. Dysbiosis can disrupt these mechanisms, contributing to ocular inflammation, tissue damage, and disease progression in conditions such as uveitis, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye disease, and glaucoma. Therapeutic modulation of the gut microbiome through probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation shows promise in preclinical and preliminary human studies. Conclusions: The gut-eye axis represents a dynamic and complex interplay between the gut microbiome and ocular health. Targeting the gut microbiome through innovative therapeutic strategies holds potential for improving the prevention and management of various ocular diseases.

The preventive effects of native probiotic and postbiotic on inflammation and oxidative stress in DSS-induced colitis with normal diet: Which of these agents may offer greater advantages?

Background

Maintaining a well-rounded and healthy diet is essential to promote the well-being and optimal performance of the body, especially for those suffering from Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). The objective of this study is to examine whether probiotics and postbiotics can modulate oxidative stress and inflammation, and to evaluate the properties of these compounds.

Methods

A total of eighty eight strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium were assessed for their antioxidant activities. C57BL/6 mice were allocated into four groups: normal diet (ND) + PBS, ND + DSS, ND + DSS + 10⁹ cfu/ml of probiotics, and ND + DSS + 10⁹ cfu/ml of postbiotics. Biochemical antioxidant assays, along with colitis indices, were evaluated. The ELISA assay was conducted to measure oxidant/antioxidant properties and cytokines. Additionally, the genes enrolled in NF-kB and Nrf2 signaling pathways was analyzed.

Results

In comparison to the groups exposed to DSS alone, mice that received our native agents in addition to DSS demonstrated an improvement in the negative effects induced by DSS on DAI and pathological scores, as well as on colon length and body weight. The levels of cytokines and antioxidant markers have also been normalized following the administration of our native agents, along with molecular markers. It should also be noted that our native postbiotic was able to develop more pronounced and significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in comparison to the probiotic strains.

Conclusion

In this study, our native postbiotic has demonstrated a more pronounced ability to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This finding is particularly important for individuals with impaired immune function, for whom the use of live bacteria could be risky. Therefore, the utilization of agents like probiotics and postbiotics, which come with minimal side effects in compared to chemical drugs, could be essential in managing symptoms in IBD patients.

Bacterial supplementation in mitigation of radiation-induced gastrointestinal damage

Pelvic irradiation, a crucial treatment for pelvic malignancies, is associated with the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) damage due to the high proliferation rate of epithelial cells. The radiosensitive gastrointestinal tract acts as a dose-limiting organ. High doses of ionizing radiation can cause inflammation and rupture of mucosal barriers and can also lead to intestinal fibrosis. Intestinal damage can cause acute to chronic complications, reducing patients' quality of life. The gut microbiota plays a vital role in maintaining gut health, and any changes in the gut microbial composition can worsen damage, emphasizing the importance of therapies that target and sustain the gut microbiota during radiotherapy. One potential strategy to prevent radiation-induced GI damage is to use bacterial supplements. Research suggests that probiotic supplementation may alleviate radiation-induced gastrointestinal damage, maintaining intestinal morphology and decreasing epithelial injury in cancer patients. The observed protective effects occur through various mechanisms, including antioxidant activities, modulation of the immune response, and preservation of gut barrier function. To optimize probiotic therapies, it is imperative to elucidate these mechanisms. The efficiency of probiotics as radioprotectors is highly dependent on the time and dose of administration, and their interaction with the host immune system is a key facet of their therapeutic potential. This review explores the potential benefits of bacterial supplementation in mitigating radiation-induced GI damage and the underlying mechanism. This highlights the need for further research to establish standardized protocols and refine probiotic supplementation strategies, underscoring the potential for enhancing therapeutic outcomes in patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy.

Gut instinct: harnessing the power of probiotics to tame pathogenic signaling pathways in ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) marked by persistent inflammation of the mucosal lining of the large intestine, leading to debilitating symptoms and reduced quality of life. Emerging evidence suggests that an imbalance of the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in UC pathogenesis, and various signaling pathways are implicated in the dysregulated immune response. Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host, have attracted significant attention for their potential to restore gut microbial balance and ameliorate inflammation in UC. Recent studies have elucidated the mechanisms by which probiotics modulate these signaling pathways, often by producing anti-inflammatory molecules and promoting regulatory immune cell function. For example, probiotics can inhibit the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway by stabilizing Inhibitor of kappa B alpha (IκBα), dampening the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Similarly, probiotics can modulate the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway, suppressing the activation of STAT1 and STAT3 and thus reducing the inflammatory response. A better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of probiotics in modulating pathogenic signaling pathways in UC will pave the way for developing more effective probiotic-based therapies. In this review, we explore the mechanistic role of probiotics in the attenuation of pathogenic signaling pathways, including NF-κB, JAK/STAT, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), Wnt/β-catenin, the nucleotide-binding domain (NOD)-, leucine-rich repeat (LRR)- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, Toll-like receptors (TLRs), interleukin-23 (IL-23)/IL-17 signaling pathway in UC.

Enhanced anti-inflammatory activity of chlorogenic acid via folic acid-TPGS-modified liposomes encapsulation: characterization and In vivo evaluation on colitis mice

Introduction

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) has been identified to possess salient anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer attributes. However, its application is limited by its instability and low bioavailability. Liposomes have been considered effective pharmaceutical delivery vehicles due to their ability to continuously release loaded drugs, improve drug stability, and display good biocompatibility. They can be easily modified by other small molecules to acquire additional biological functions. In this study, we developed and characterized folic acid-TPGS-modified chlorogenic acid liposome (FTCLP) and evaluated its anti-inflammatory activity.

Methods

The successful encapsulation of CGA within FTCLP was confirmed through examination using electron microscopy, fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The in vitro release characteristics of FTCLP were evaluated using the dialysis bag membrane method. Meanwhile, a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) -induced colitis model was employed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of FTCLP and its mechanism.

Results

The FTCLP exhibited an encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 84.85 ± 1.20% and a drug loading (DL) of 11.67 ± 0.04%. The particle size of FTCLP was determined to be 150.63 ± 0.71 nm, with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.198 ± 0.02 and a zeta potential of 2.61 ± 0.38 mV. The in vitro release profile followed the Higuchi model, indicating sustained-release characteristics. The in vivo study demonstrated that FTCLP treatment was effective in improving the symptoms of DSS-induced inflammatory response, as evidenced by mitigation of weight loss, reduction in the disease activity index (DAI) score, restoration of colon length, and attenuation of colon tissue damage. Furthermore, the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interferon-gamma (INF-γ), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), were markedly diminished in both the serum and colon tissue. FTCLP was also observed to suppress the expression of INF-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65, while concomitantly upregulating the expression of Janus kinase (JAK) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). Besides, the administration of FTCLP was found to result in an increase in the abundance of Lactobacillaceae and Peptostreptococcaceae, while decreasing the abundance of Bacteroidaceae, Rikenellaceae, and Helicobacteraceae.

Conclusion

Following encapsulation of CGA within liposomes, FTCLP revealed favorable stability and sustained release properties, and enhanced the anti-inflammatory effects by modulating multiple inflammation-related biomarkers. FTCLP has the potential to be a safe and effective drug for targeted therapy of colitis.

Antioxidant Role of Probiotics in Inflammation-Induced Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) continues to be a significant contributor to global morbidity and mortality. Emerging evidence indicates that disturbances in gut microbial composition, the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the resulting inflammation can lead to DNA damage, driving the pathogenesis and progression of CRC. Notably, bacterial metabolites can either protect against or contribute to oxidative stress by modulating the activity of antioxidant enzymes and influencing signaling pathways that govern ROS-induced inflammation. Additionally, microbiota byproducts, when supplemented through probiotics, can affect tumor microenvironments to enhance treatment efficacy and selectively mediate the ROS-induced destruction of CRC cells. This review aims to discuss the mechanisms by which taxonomical shifts in gut microbiota and related metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, secondary bile acids, and trimethylamine-N-oxide influence ROS concentrations to safeguard or promote the onset of inflammation-mediated CRC. Additionally, we focus on the role of probiotic species in modulating ROS-mediated signaling pathways that influence both oxidative status and inflammation, such as Nrf2-Keap1, NF-κB, and NLRP3 to mitigate carcinogenesis. Overall, a deeper understanding of the role of gut microbiota on oxidative stress may aid in delaying or preventing the onset of CRC and offer new avenues for adjunct, CRC-specific therapeutic interventions such as cancer immunotherapy.

The preventive and therapeutic role of Lactobacillus spp. in in vitro model of inflammation via affecting autophagy signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Intestinal inflammation has various causes and leads to some inflammatory diseases, of which autophagy pathway dysfunction could be considered as one of them. Probiotics could have a positive effect on reducing inflammation by activating the autophagy pathway. To evaluate the precise effects of probiotics as preventive and therapeutic agents to control the symptoms of inflammatory diseases, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of Lactobacillus spp. in regulating the autophagy signaling pathway.

METHODS

A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay was used to analyze the expression of autophagy genes involved in the formation of phagophores, autophagosomes, and autolysosomes after exposing the HT-29 cell line to sonicated pathogens and adding Lactobacillus spp. before, after, and simultaneously with inflammation. A cytokine assay was also accomplished to evaluate the interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-1β level following the probiotic treatment.

RESULTS

Lactobacillus spp. generally increased autophagy gene expression and consumption of Lactobacillus spp. before, simultaneously, and after inflammation, ultimately leading to activate autophagy pathways. The proinflammatory cytokines including IL-6 and IL-1β decreased after probiotic treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our native probiotic Lactobacillus spp. showed beneficial effects on HT-29 cells by increasing autophagy gene expression and decreasing the proinflammatory cytokines production in all treatments. Therefore, this novel probiotic cocktail Lactobacillus spp. can prevent and treat inflammation-related diseases.

Boric Acid (Boron) Attenuates AOM-Induced Colorectal Cancer in Rats by Augmentation of Apoptotic and Antioxidant Mechanisms

Boric acid (BA) is a naturally occurring weak Lewis acid containing boron, oxygen, and hydrogen elements that can be found in water, soil, and plants. Because of its numerous biological potentials including anti-proliferation actions, the present investigates the chemopreventive possessions of BA on azoxymethane (AOM)-induced colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in rats. Thirty laboratory rats were divided into 5 groups: negative control (A) received two subcutaneous inoculations of normal saline and nourished on 10% Tween 20; groups B-E had two injections of 15 mg/kg azoxymethane followed by ingestion of 10% Tween 20 (B, cancer control), inoculation with intraperitoneal 35 mg/kg 5-fluorouracil injection (C, reference group), or ingested with boric acid 30 mg/kg (D) and 60 mg/kg (E). The gross morphology results showed significantly increased total colonic ACF in cancer controls, while BA treatment caused a significant reduction of ACF values. Histopathological evaluation of colons from cancer controls showed bizarrely elongated nuclei, stratified cells, and higher depletion of the submucosal glands than that of BA-treated groups. Boric acid treatment up-surged the pro-apoptotic (Bax) expression and reduced anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) protein expressions. Moreover, BA ingestion caused upregulation of antioxidant enzymes (GPx, SOD, CAT), and lowered MDA contents in colon tissue homogenates. Boric acid-treated rats had significantly lower pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) and higher anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10) based on serum analysis. The colorectal cancer attenuation by BA is shown by the reduced ACF numbers, anticipated by its regulatory potentials on the apoptotic proteins, antioxidants, and inflammatory cytokines originating from AOM-induced oxidative damage.

Mechanisms of medicinal, pharmaceutical, and immunomodulatory action of probiotics bacteria and their secondary metabolites against disease management: an overview

Probiotics or bacteriotherapy is today's hot issue for public entities (Food and Agriculture Organization, and World Health Organization) as well as health and food industries since Metchnikoff and his colleagues hypothesized the correlation between probiotic consumption and human's health. They contribute to the newest and highly efficient arena of promising biotherapeutics. These are usually attractive in biomedical applications such as gut-related diseases like irritable bowel disease, diarrhea, gastrointestinal disorders, fungal infections, various allergies, parasitic and bacterial infections, viral diseases, and intestinal inflammation, and are also worth immunomodulation. The useful impact of probiotics is not limited to gut-related diseases alone. Still, these have proven benefits in various acute and chronic infectious diseases, like cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) diseases, and high serum cholesterol. Recently, different researchers have paid special attention to investigating biomedical applications of probiotics, but consolidated data regarding bacteriotherapy with a detailed mechanistically applied approach is scarce and controversial. The present article reviews the bio-interface of probiotic strains, mainly (i) why the demand for probiotics?, (ii) the current status of probiotics, (iii) an alternative to antibiotics, (iv) the potential applications towards disease management, (v) probiotics and industrialization, and (vi) futuristic approach.

Bifidobacterium longum and Chlorella sorokiniana Combination Modulates IFN-γ, IL-10, and SOCS3 in Rotavirus-Infected Cells

Rotavirus is the main cause of acute diarrhea in children up to five years of age. In this regard, probiotics are commonly used to treat or prevent gastroenteritis including viral infections. The anti-rotavirus effect of Bifidobacterium longum and Chlorella sorokiniana, by reducing viral infectivity and improving IFN-type I response, has been previously reported. The present study aimed to study the effect of B. longum and/or C. sorokiniana on modulating the antiviral cellular immune response mediated by IFN-γ, IL-10, SOCS3, STAT1, and STAT2 genes in rotavirus-infected cells. To determine the mRNA relative expression of these genes, HT-29 cells were treated with B. longum and C. sorokiniana alone or in combination, followed by rotavirus infection. In addition, infected cells were treated with B. longum and/or C. sorokiniana. Cellular RNA was purified, used for cDNA synthesis, and amplified by qPCR. Our results demonstrated that the combination of B. longum and C. sorokiniana stimulates the antiviral cellular immune response by upregulating IFN-γ and may block pro-inflammatory cytokines by upregulating IL-10 and SOCS3. The results of our study indicated that B. longum, C. sorokiniana, or their combination improve antiviral cellular immune response and might modulate pro-inflammatory responses.

A proteomic insight reveals the role of food-associated Lactiplantibacillus plantarum C9O4 in reverting intestinal inflammation

Nowadays, Western diets and lifestyle lead to an increasing occurrence of chronic gut inflammation that represents an emerging health concern with still a lack of successful therapies. Fermented foods, and their associated lactic acid bacteria, have recently regained popularity for their probiotic potential including the maintenance of gut homeostasis by modulating the immune and inflammatory response. Our study aims to investigate the crosstalk between the food-borne strain Lactiplantibacillus plantarum C9O4 and intestinal epithelial cells in an in vitro inflammation model. Cytokines profile shows the ability of C9O4 to significantly reduce levels of IL-2, IL-5, IL-6, and IFN-γ. Proteomic functional analysis reveals an immunoregulatory role of C9O4, able to revert the detrimental effects of IFN-γ through the JAK/STAT pathway in inflamed intestinal cells. These results suggest a promising therapeutic role of fermented food-associated microbes for the management of gastrointestinal inflammatory diseases. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD042175.

Investigating the crucial role of selected Bifidobacterium probiotic strains in preventing or reducing inflammation by affecting the autophagy pathway

Several studies have shown that probiotics can prevent and reduce inflammation in inflammation-related diseases. However, few studies have focused on the interaction between host and probiotics in modulating the immune system through autophagy. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the preventive and/or therapeutic effects of native potential probiotic breast milk-isolated Bifidobacterium spp. (i.e. B. bifidum, B. longum, and B. infantis) on the inflammatory cascade by affecting autophagy gene expression 24 and 48 h after treatment. Autophagy genes involved in different stages of the autophagy process were selected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Gene expression investigation was accomplished by exposing the human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line (HT-29) to sonicated pathogens (1.5 × 108 bacterial CFU ml-1) and adding Bifidobacterium spp. (MOI10) before, after, and simultaneously with induction of inflammation. An equal volume of RPMI medium was used as a control. Generally, our native potential probiotic Bifidobacterium spp. can increase the autophagy gene expression in comparison with pathogen. Moreover, an increase in gene expression was observed with our probiotic strains' consumption in all stages of autophagy. Totally, our selected Bifidobacterium spp. can increase autophagy gene expression before, simultaneously, and after the inflammation induction, so they can prevent and reduce inflammation in an in vitro model of inflammation.

Huoxin Pill Reduces Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Rats via TLR4/NFκB/NLRP3 Signaling Pathway

OBJECTIVE

To explore the protective effect of Huoxin Pill (HXP) on acute myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (MIRI) injury in rats.

METHODS

Seventy-five adult SD rats were divided into the sham-operated group, model group, positive drug group (diltiazem hydrochloride, DH), high dose group (24 mg/kg, HXP-H) and low dose group (12 mg/kg, HXP-L) of Huoxin Pill (n=15 for every group) according to the complete randomization method. After 1 week of intragastric administration, the left anterior descending coronary artery of the rat's heart was ligated for 45 min and reperfused for 3 h. Serum was separated and the levels of creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA), hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were measured. Myocardial ischemia rate, myocardial infarction rate and myocardial no-reflow rate were determined by staining with Evans blue and 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC). Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) and Bioinformatics Analysis Tool for Molecular mechANism of Traditional Chinese Medicine (BATMAN) databases were used to screen for possible active compounds of HXP and their potential therapeutic targets; the results of anti-inflammatory genes associated with MIRI were obtained from GeneCards, Drugbank, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM), and Therapeutic Target Datebase (TTD) databases was performed; Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment were used to analyze the intersected targets; molecular docking was performed using AutoDock Tools. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor kappa-B (NFκB)/NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3).

RESULTS

Compared with the model group, all doses of HXP significantly reduced the levels of LDH, CK and CK-MB (P<0.05, P<0.01); HXP significantly increased serum activity of SOD (P<0.05, P<0.01); all doses of HXP significantly reduced the levels of hs-CRP and IL-1β (P<0.05, P<0.01) and the myocardial infarction rate and myocardial no-reflow rate (P<0.01). GO enrichment analysis mainly involved positive regulation of gene expression, extracellular space and identical protein binding, KEGG pathway enrichment mainly involved PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and lipid and atherosclerosis. Molecular docking results showed that kaempferol and luteolin had a better affinity with TLR4, NFκB and NLRP3 molecules. The protein expressions of TLR4, NFκB and NLRP3 were reduced in the HXP group (P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

HXP has a significant protective effect on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats, and its effect may be related to the inhibition of redox response and reduction of the inflammatory response by inhibiting the TLR4NFκB/NLRP3 signaling pathway.

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) alleviates the inflammatory response and recovers oral microbiota in acetic acid-induced oral inflammation mice

The oral microbiota, the second largest microbiome in the human body, plays an integral role in maintaining both the local oral and systemic health of the host. Oral microecological imbalances have been identified as a potential risk factor for numerous oral and systemic diseases. As a representative component of tea, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has demonstrated inhibitory effects on most pathogens in single-microbial models. In this study, the regulatory effect of EGCG on more complex oral microbial systems was further explored through a mouse model of acetic acid-induced oral inflammation. Acetic acid induces histological damage in the cheek pouch, tongue, and throat, such as broken mucosa, submucosal edema, and muscular disorders. These detrimental effects were ameliorated significantly following EGCG treatment. Additionally, EGCG reduced the levels of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α to alleviate the inflammation of the tongue, cheek pouch, and throat. According to the 16S rDNA gene sequencing data, EGCG treatment contributed to increased diversity of the oral microbiota and the reversal of oral microecological disorder. This study demonstrates the regulatory effect of EGCG on dysregulated oral microbiota, providing a potential option for the prevention and treatment of oral-microbiota-associated diseases.

Investigation of the anti-inflammatory effects of native potential probiotics as supplementary therapeutic agents in an in-vitro model of inflammation

BACKGROUND

IBD is considered an inflammatory disease with abnormal and exaggerated immune responses. To control the symptoms, different theraputic agents could be used, however, utilizing the agents with the least side effects could be important. Probiotics as beneficial microorganisms are one of the complementory theraputic agents that could be used to modulate inflammatory signaling pathways. In the current study, we aimed to identify the precise molecular effects of potential probiotics on signaling pathways involved in the development of inflammation.

METHODS

A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay was used to analyze the expression of JAK /STAT (JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, TYK2, STAT1, STAT2, STAT3, STAT4, STAT5 and STAT6) and inflammatory genes (NEMO, TIRAP, IRAK, and RIP) after the HT -29 cell line treatment with the sonicated pathogens and potential probiotics. A cytokine assay was also used to evaluate IL -6 and IL -1β production after potential probiotic treatment.

RESULTS

The potential probiotic cocktail downregulated the JAK genes and TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO, and RIP genes in the NF-kB pathway compared with cells that were treated with sonicated gram negative pathogens. The expression of STAT genes was different after potential probiotic treatment. The production of IL -6 and IL -1β decreased after potential probiotic treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the importance of controlling the symptoms of IBD to improve the life quality of the patients, using probiotic could be crucial. In the current study the studied native potential probiotic cocktails showed anti-inflammatory effects via modulation of JAK /STAT and NF-kB signaling pathways. This observation suggests that our native potential probiotics consumption could be useful in reducing intestinal inflammation.

Ameliorating inflammation in an in vitro model by screening the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory roles of putative probiotics in inflammatory bowel disease

IBD is considered a relapsing disease with relapsing phases. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that modulate inflammatory signaling pathways. Our aim was to identify the precise molecular effects of probiotics on inflammatory signaling pathways during the presence of inflammation. Evaluation of the expression of JAK/STAT and inflammatory genes after treatment of the HT -29 cell line with the sonicated pathogens and probiotics, simultaneously was performed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay. The production of IL-6 and IL-1β after administration of probiotics was conducted by means of cytokine assay. The probiotic cocktail resulted in the downregulation of TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO, and RIP genes in the NF-кB pathway compared with Sonicat-treated cells. The expression of JAK/STAT genes was various after probiotic treatment. The application of probiotics has been observed to result in a notable decrease in the production of IL-6 and IL-1β. The investigated probiotic cocktail, especially Bifidobacterium spp. showed anti-inflammatory effects on HT -29 cells via modulation of JAK/STAT and NF-кB signaling pathways. The use of probiotics with the least side effects could be considered a suitable treatment for patients with inflammatory bowel disease, even at the beginning of inflammation.

Targeting the Gut-Eye Axis: An Emerging Strategy to Face Ocular Diseases

The human microbiota refers to a large variety of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) that live in different human body sites, including the gut, oral cavity, skin, and eyes. In particular, the presence of an ocular surface microbiota with a crucial role in maintaining ocular surface homeostasis by preventing colonization from pathogen species has been recently demonstrated. Moreover, recent studies underline a potential association between gut microbiota (GM) and ocular health. In this respect, some evidence supports the existence of a gut-eye axis involved in the pathogenesis of several ocular diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, uveitis, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye, and glaucoma. Therefore, understanding the link between the GM and these ocular disorders might be useful for the development of new therapeutic approaches, such as probiotics, prebiotics, symbiotics, or faecal microbiota transplantation through which the GM could be modulated, thus allowing better management of these diseases.

Metabolomics analysis in rat hearts with ischemia/reperfusion injury after diazoxide postconditioning

Background: Diazoxide is a selective mitochondrial-sensitive potassium channel opening agent that has a definite effect on reducing myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI). However, the exact effects of diazoxide postconditioning on the myocardial metabolome remain unclear, which might contribute to the cardioprotective effects of diazoxide postconditioning. Methods: Rat hearts subjected to Langendorff perfusion were randomly assigned to the normal (Nor) group, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) group, diazoxide (DZ) group and 5-hydroxydecanoic acid + diazoxide (5-HD + DZ) group. The heart rate (HR), left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), and maximum left ventricular pressure (+dp/dtmax) were recorded. The mitochondrial Flameng scores were analysed according to the ultrastructure of the ventricular myocardial tissue in the electron microscopy images. Rat hearts of each group were used to investigate the possible metabolic changes relevant to MIRI and diazoxide postconditioning. Results: The cardiac function indices in the Nor group were better than those in the other groups at the end point of reperfusion, and the HR, LVDP and +dp/dt_max of the Nor group at T2 were significantly higher than those of the other groups. Diazoxide postconditioning significantly improved cardiac function after ischaemic injury, and the HR, LVDP and +dp/dt_max of the DZ group at T2 were significantly higher than those of the I/R group, which could be abolished by 5-HD. The HR, LVDP and +dp/dt_max of the 5-HD + DZ group at T2 were significantly lower than those of the DZ group. The myocardial tissue in the Nor group was mostly intact, while it exhibited considerable damage in the I/R group. The ultrastructural integrity of the myocardium in the DZ group was higher than that in the I/R and 5-HD + DZ groups. The mitochondrial Flameng score in the Nor group was lower than that in the I/R, DZ and 5-HD + DZ groups. The mitochondrial Flameng score in the DZ group was lower than that in the I/R and 5-HD + DZ groups. Five metabolites, namely, L-glutamic acid, L-threonine, citric acid, succinate, and nicotinic acid, were suggested to be associated with the protective effects of diazoxide postconditioning on MIRI. Conclusion: Diazoxide postconditioning may improve MIRI via certain metabolic changes. This study provides resource data for future studies on metabolism relevant to diazoxide postconditioning and MIRI.

RETRACTED: Sinapic Acid Attenuate Liver Injury by Modulating Antioxidant Activity and Inflammatory Cytokines in Thioacetamide-Induced Liver Cirrhosis in Rats

Sinapic acid (SA) is a natural pharmacological active compound found in berries, nuts, and cereals. The current study aimed to investigate the protective effects of SA against thioacetamide (TAA) fibrosis in rats by histopathological and immunohistochemical assays. The albino rats (30) were randomly divided into five groups (G). G1 was injected with distilled water 3 times/week and fed orally daily with 10% Tween 20 for two months. G2-5 were injected with 200 mg/kg TAA three times weekly for two months and fed with 10% Tween 20, 50 mg/kg silymarin, 20, and 40 mg/kg of SA daily for 2 months, respectively. The results showed that rats treated with SA had fewer hepatocyte injuries with lower liver index (serum bilirubin, total protein, albumin, and liver enzymes (ALP, ALT, and AST) and were similar to that of control and silymarin-treated rats. Acute toxicity for 2 and 4 g/kg SA showed to be safe without any toxic signs in treated rats. Macroscopic examination showed that hepatotoxic liver had an irregular, rough surface with micro and macro nodules and histopathology expressed by Hematoxylin and Eosin, and Masson Trichrome revealed severe inflammation and infiltration of focal necrosis, fibrosis, lymphocytes, and proliferation bile duct. In contrast, rats fed with SA had significantly lower TAA toxicity in gross and histology and liver tissues as presented by less liver tissue disruption, lesser fibrosis, and minimum in filtered hepatocytes. Immunohistochemistry of rats receiving SA showed significant up-regulation of HSP 70% and down-regulation of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein expression compared to positive control rats. The homogenized liver tissues showed a notable rise in the antioxidant enzymes (SOD and CAT) actions with significantly lower malondialdehyde (MDA) levels compared to that of the positive control group. Furthermore, the SA-treated rats had significantly lower TNF-a, IL-6, and higher IL-10 levels than the positive control rats. Thus, the findings suggest SA as a hepatoprotective compound due to its inhibitory effects on fibrosis, hepatotoxicity, liver cell proliferation, up-regulation of HSP 70, and downregulation of α-SMA expression, inhibiting lipid peroxidation (MDA), while retaining the liver index and antioxidant enzymes to normal.

Probiotics as functional foods: How probiotics can alleviate the symptoms of neurological disabilities

Neurological disorders are diseases of the central nervous system with progressive loss of nervous tissue. One of the most difficult problems associated with neurological disorders is that there is no clear treatment for these diseases. In this review, the physiopathology of some neurodegenerative diseases, etiological causes, drugs used and their side effects, and finally the role of probiotics in controlling the symptoms of these neurodegenerative diseases are presented. Recently, researchers have focused more on the microbiome and the gut-brain axis, which may play a critical role in maintaining brain health. Probiotics are among the most important bacteria that have positive effects on the balance of homeostasis via influencing the microbiome. Other important functions of probiotics in alleviating symptoms of neurological disorders include anti-inflammatory properties, short-chain fatty acid production, and the production of various neurotransmitters. The effects of probiotics on the control of abnormalities seen in neurological disorders led to probiotics being referred to as "psychobiotic. Given the important role of the gut-brain axis and the imbalance of the gut microbiome in the etiology and symptoms of neurological disorders, probiotics could be considered safe agents that positively affect the balance of the microbiome as complementary treatment options for neurological disorders.

Immunomodulatory Properties of Probiotics and Their Derived Bioactive Compounds

Immune system modulation is an intriguing part of scientific research. It is well established that the immune system plays a crucial role in orchestrating cellular and molecular key mediators, thus establishing a powerful defense barrier against infectious pathogens. Gut microbiota represent a complex community of approximately a hundred trillion microorganisms that live in the mammalian gastrointestinal (GI) tract, contributing to the maintenance of gut homeostasis via regulation of the innate and adaptive immune responses. However, impairment in the crosstalk between intestinal immunity and gut microbiota may reflect on detrimental health issues. In this context, many studies have indicated that probiotics and their bioactive compounds, such as bacteriocins and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), display distinct immunomodulatory properties through which they suppress inflammation and enhance the restoration of microbial diversity in pathological states. This review highlights the fundamental features of probiotics, bacteriocins, and SCFAs, which make them ideal therapeutic agents for the amelioration of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. It also describes their underlying mechanisms on gut microbiota modulation and emphasizes how they influence the function of immune cells involved in regulating gut homeostasis. Finally, it discusses the future perspectives and challenges of their administration to individuals.

Bacillus pumilus TS1 alleviates Salmonella Enteritidis-induced intestinal injury in broilers

BACKGROUND

In the current context of reduced and limited antibiotic use, several pathogens and stressors cause intestinal oxidative stress in poultry, which leads to a reduced feed intake, slow or stagnant growth and development, and even death, resulting in huge economic losses to the poultry breeding industry. Oxidative stress in animals is a non-specific injury for which no targeted drug therapy is available; however, the health of poultry can be improved by adding appropriate feed additives. Bacillus pumilus, as a feed additive, promotes growth and development and reduces intestinal oxidative stress damage in poultry. Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) senses oxidative damage and repairs unfolded and misfolded proteins; its protective effect has been widely investigated. Mitogen-activated protein kinase/protein kinase C (MAPK/PKC) and hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) are also common proteins associated with inflammatory response induced by several stressors, but there is limited research on these proteins in the context of poultry intestinal Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) infections. In the present study, we isolated a novel strain of Bacillus pumilus with excellent performance from the feces of healthy yaks, named TS1. To investigate the effect of TS1 on SE-induced enteritis in broilers, 120 6-day-old white-feathered broilers were randomly divided into four groups (con, TS1, SE, TS1 + SE). TS1 and TS1 + SE group chickens were fed with 1.4 × 107 colony-forming units per mL of TS1 for 15 days and intraperitoneally injected with SE to establish the oxidative stress model. Then, we investigated whether TS1 protects the intestine of SE-treated broiler chickens using inflammatory cytokine gene expression analysis, stress protein quantification, antioxidant quantification, and histopathological analysis.

RESULTS

The TS1 + SE group showed lower MDA and higher GSH-Px, SOD, and T-AOC than the SE group. TS1 alleviated the effects of SE on intestinal villus length and crypt depth. Our results suggest that SE exposure increased the expression of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-4, and MCP-1), p38 MAPK, and PKCβ and decreased the expression of HSP60, HSP70, and HIF-1α, whereas TS1 alleviated these effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Bacillus pumilus TS1 alleviated oxidative stress damage caused by SE and attenuated the inflammatory response in broilers through MAPK/PKC regulation of HSPs/HIF-1α.

Probiotics Mechanism of Action on Immune Cells and Beneficial Effects on Human Health

Immune cells and commensal microbes in the human intestine constantly communicate with and react to each other in a stable environment in order to maintain healthy immune activities. Immune system-microbiota cross-talk relies on a complex network of pathways that sustain the balance between immune tolerance and immunogenicity. Probiotic bacteria can interact and stimulate intestinal immune cells and commensal microflora to modulate specific immune functions and immune homeostasis. Growing evidence shows that probiotic bacteria present important health-promoting and immunomodulatory properties. Thus, the use of probiotics might represent a promising approach for improving immune system activities. So far, few studies have been reported on the beneficial immune modulatory effect of probiotics. However, many others, which are mainly focused on their metabolic/nutritional properties, have been published. Therefore, the mechanisms behind the interaction between host immune cells and probiotics have only been partially described. The present review aims to collect and summarize the most recent scientific results and the resulting implications of how probiotic bacteria and immune cells interact to improve immune functions. Hence, a description of the currently known immunomodulatory mechanisms of probiotic bacteria in improving the host immune system is provided.

Live probiotic bacteria administered in a pathomimetic Leaky Gut Chip ameliorate impaired epithelial barrier and mucosal inflammation

Here, we report a pathomimetic Leaky Gut Chip that recapitulates increased epithelial permeability and intestinal inflammation to assess probiotic intervention as live biotherapeutics. We leveraged a mechanodynamic human gut-on-a-chip (Gut Chip) that recreates three-dimensional epithelial layers in a controlled oxygen gradient and biomechanical cues, where the addition of a cocktail of pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IL-1β, reproducibly induced impaired epithelial barrier followed by intestinal inflammation. This inflamed leaky epithelium was not recovered for up to 3 days, although the cytokine treatment ceased. However, when probiotic bacteria, either Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG or a multi-species mixture (VSL#3), were respectively administered on the leaky epithelium, bacterial cells colonized mucosal surface and significantly improved barrier function, enhanced the localization of tight junction proteins such as ZO-1 and occludin, and elevated mucus production. In addition, inflammatory markers, including p65, pSTAT3, and MYD88, that were highly expressed in the germ-free control were significantly reduced when probiotic bacteria were co-cultured in a Leaky Gut Chip. Probiotic treatment also significantly reduced the production of secretory pro-inflammatory cytokines. Hence, our pathomimetic Leaky Gut Chip may offer a translational strategy to dissect the therapeutic mechanism of live biotherapeutic products and validate their clinical potential by incorporating patient-derived organoids.

Antibiotic resistance and the alternatives to conventional antibiotics: The role of probiotics and microbiota in combating antimicrobial resistance

From the introduction of the first antibiotic to the present day, the emergence of antibiotic resistance has been a difficult problem for medicine. Regardless of the type of antibiotic resistance, the presence of resistant isolates in clinical and even asymptomatic fecal carriers becomes a difficult public health problem. Therefore, the use of new antimicrobial combination therapies or alternative agents with antimicrobial activity that have the least side effects, including plant-, metal-, and nanoparticle-based agents, could be crucial and useful. Recently, the use of probiotics as a hypothetical candidate to combat infectious disease control and antimicrobial resistance has received notable attention. Considering the alteration of the microbiota in fecal carriers and also in patients with resistant bacterial isolates, the use of probiotics could have an appropriate effect on the balance of the microbial population. In this review, we have attempted to discuss the history of antimicrobial resistance and provide an overview of microbiota change and the use of probiotics as new agents with antimicrobial activity associated with the emergence of resistant isolates.

The Role of Combining Probiotics in Preventing and Controlling Inflammation: A Focus on the Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Effects of Probiotics in an In Vitro Model of IBD

OBJECTIVE

IBD is an inflammatory disease with abnormalities such as dysbiosis and abnormal immune system activity. Probiotics, as live beneficial microorganisms, play a role in maintaining health through various mechanisms, including the modulation of the immune system and the control of inflammation. Here, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of a probiotic mixture of Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. in modulating JAK/STAT and NF-kB inflammatory signaling pathways.

METHOD

A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay was conducted to analyze the expression of JAK/STAT and inflammatory genes after treatment with the probiotic mixture before, after, and simultaneously with the sonicated pathogen in the HT-29 cell line. The production of IL-6 and IL-1β after probiotic treatment was investigated via cytokine assay.

RESULTS

Treatment with probiotics resulted in downregulation of TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO, and RIP genes in the NF-kB pathway and JAK/STAT genes compared with sonicat-treated cells as inflammation inducers. The production of IL-6 and IL-1 decreased after probiotic treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The probiotic mixture of Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. showed anti-inflammatory effects by modulating JAK/STAT and NF-kB signaling pathways. The use of probiotics could be considered as an appropriate complementary treatment for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

The potential role of Bifidobacterium spp. as a preventive and therapeutic agent in controlling inflammation via affecting inflammatory signalling pathways

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease with relapses and periods of remission. Forasmuch as, dysregulation of the immune system is one of the triggers of IBD, taking probiotics as one of the immunomodulators in the gut, could help to control inflammation and IBD via influencing signalling pathways. Here, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of five selected Bifidobacterium strains in modulating JAK/STAT and NF-kB inflammatory signalling pathways via using the in vitro assay. A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay was used to analyse the expression of JAK/STAT and inflammatory genes followed by potential probiotic treatments before, after and simultaneously with the inflammation induction (sonicated pathogen). The production of IL-6 and IL-1β after probiotic treatment was evaluated. Probiotic treatment resulted in the downregulation of TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO and RIP genes in the NF-kB pathway, as well as JAK genes compared to sonicate-treated cells. The expression of STAT genes was different after our selected Bifidobacterium strains treatment. The production of IL-6 and IL-1β decreased after probiotic treatment. These strains of Bifidobacterium spp. showed anti-inflammatory effects on HT-29 cells via modulation of JAK/STAT and NF-kB signalling pathways. The use of Bifidobacterium spp. could be considered as a suitable preventive and complementary treatment for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.