Evidence for hypocholesterolemic effect of Lactobacillus reuteri in hypercholesterolemic mice

Effect of Linoleic Acid on Cholesterol Levels in a High-Fat Diet-Induced Hypercholesterolemia Rat Model

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for almost one-third of all deaths. The risk factors for developing this disease include high levels of serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), alongside low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Dietary linoleic acid has been suggested to reduce these risk factors. This study aims to determine the effects of linoleic acid on cholesterol levels, liver function tests, and structural changes in liver tissue in comparison with fenofibrate in a hypercholesterolemic rat model. Thirty-six male Sprague Dawley rats (150-180 g) were divided into non-hypercholesterolemic and hypercholesterolemic groups. Hypercholesterolemia was induced in the rats by feeding them with a high-fat diet for two weeks. After two weeks, the non-hypercholesterolemic and hypercholesterolemic rats were equally divided into six groups (n = 6): control non-hypercholesterolemic rats, non-hypercholesterolemic rats treated with fenofibrate (60 mg/kg), non-hypercholesterolemic rats treated with linoleic acid (5 mg/kg), control hypercholesterolemic rats, hypercholesterolemic rats treated with fenofibrate (60 mg/kg), and hypercholesterolemic rats treated with linoleic acid (5 mg/kg). The changes in the rats' body weight, serum lipid profiles, atherogenic indices, and liver function test results were obtained. The rats' liver tissues were stained for histopathological analysis. The linoleic acid-treated hypercholesterolemic rats exhibited significantly reduced serum TC, TG, LDL, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase levels, as well as increased HDL levels compared with the control hypercholesterolemic rats. These linoleic acid effects were comparable to those in the fenofibrate-treated hypercholesterolemic rats. In conclusion, linoleic acid possesses early anti-hypercholesterolemic properties, which may be due to the reductions in serum cholesterol levels and mild early structural changes in the liver tissues of hypercholesterolemic rats. Therefore, continued studies on linoleic acid in atherosclerotic and/or obese animal models are suggested.

Alleviation of Catching and Crating Stress by Dietary Supplementation of Bacillus subtilis in Pekin Ducks

Catching and crating may elicit stress and fear reactions in poultry because the procedures involve human contact and exposure to a novel environment. This study determined the effects of dietary probiotic supplementation on physiological stress, underlying fear, and growth performance of Pekin ducks subjected to catching and 4 h of crating. The study used a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement; the main factors were diet (basal or basal + probiotic) and crating durations (0 or 4 h). From 1 to 21 days of age (doa), birds were fed a basal or basal + probiotic (CLOSTAT® (Bacillus subtilis) (Kemin Industries, Inc., Des Moines, IA, USA), 1 g/kg) diet. At 21 doa, an equal number of ducklings from each dietary group were caught and crated for 4 h or left undisturbed in the home pens. Birds were examined for serum corticosterone (CORT), heat shock protein (HSP) 70, creatine kinase (CK), triglyceride (TG), glucose (GLU), cholesterol (CHOL), and lactate (LAC) concentrations, heterophil to lymphocyte ratios (HLR), tonic immobility (TI) duration, open-field (OF) test, body weight (BW), and feed conversion ratios (FCR). Diet had no significant (p > 0.05) effect on CORT among the non-crated ducks. However, after catching and crating, birds fed the control diet had significantly (p < 0.05) higher CORT than their probiotic-supplemented counterparts. Catching and crating significantly (p < 0.05) elevated HSP70, HLR, GLU, and CHOL but reduced TG in ducks. Birds fed the probiotic-supplemented diet showed significantly (p < 0.05) lower HSP70, HLR, TG, and CK than those fed the control diet. Probiotic-supplemented ducks showed reduced fear-related behaviours, including TI durations, ambulation latency, and body shaking. Diet had a negligible effect on body weights and FCR of ducks at 21 doa. In brief, catching and crating for 4 h augmented Pekin ducks’ physiological stress and fear reactions, and supplementing birds with probiotics was beneficial in ameliorating these detrimental effects.

Lactobacillus reuteri FYNLJ109L1 Attenuating Metabolic Syndrome in Mice via Gut Microbiota Modulation and Alleviating Inflammation

Metabolic syndrome is caused by an excessive energy intake in a long-term, high-fat and/or high-sugar diet, resulting in obesity and a series of related complications, which has become a global health concern. Probiotics intervention can regulate the gut microbiota and relieve the systemic and chronic low-grade inflammation, which is an alternative to relieving metabolic syndrome. The aim of this work was to explore the alleviation of two different Lactobacillusreuteri strains on metabolic syndrome. Between the two L. reuteri strains, FYNLJ109L1 had a better improvement effect on blood glucose, blood lipid, liver tissue damage and other related indexes than NCIMB 30242. In particular, FYNLJ109L1 reduced weight gain, food intake and fat accumulation. Additionally, it can regulate the gut microbiota, increase IL-10, and reduce IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), as well as liver injury, and further reduce insulin resistance and regulate lipid metabolism disorders. In addition, it could modulate the gut microbiota, particularly a decreased Romboutsia and Clostridium sensu stricto-1, and an increased Acetatifactor. The results indicated that FYNLJ109L1 could improve metabolic syndrome significantly via alleviating inflammation and gut microbiota modulation.

Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp. mesenteroides SD23 Prevents Metabolic Dysfunction Associated with High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity in Male Mice

High-fat diet (HFD) consumption induces obesity and increases blood glucose, insulin resistance, and metabolic disorders. Recent studies suggest that probiotics might be a novel approach to counteract these effects in the treatment of obesity. Here, we evaluated the effect of Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp. mesenteroides SD23 on obesity-related metabolic dysfunction. In the present study, mice were randomly divided into four dietary groups: standard diet (C), HFD (OB), standard diet with L. mesenteroides SD23 (CP), and HFD with L. mesenteroides SD23 (OBP). Diets were maintained for 14 weeks. Animal weight was monitored and biochemical and histological analyses were performed after intervention. OB showed metabolic dysfunction, and increased the number of larger adipocytes compared to C. OB induced liver tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression, increased cholesterol, leptin, and glucose levels compared to C. OBP reduced body weight, glucose, cholesterol, and leptin levels and improved glucose tolerance compared to OB. OBP also reduced liver steatosis, the number of larger adipocytes in adipose tissue, and reduced the villus height in the small intestine. OBP decreased expression of TNF-α and increased expression of IL-10 in liver. The parameters evaluated in the CP were similar to the C. This study provides novel evidence that dietary intervention with L. mesenteroides SD23 improves metabolic dysfunction related to obesity in HFD-fed mice.

Therapeutic and Improving Function of Lactobacilli in the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular-Related Diseases: A Novel Perspective From Gut Microbiota

The occurrence and development of cardiovascular-related diseases are associated with structural and functional changes in gut microbiota (GM). The accumulation of beneficial gut commensals contributes to the improvement of cardiovascular-related diseases. The cardiovascular-related diseases that can be relieved by Lactobacillus supplementation, including hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, heart failure, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and obesity, have expanded. As probiotics, lactobacilli occupy a substantial part of the GM and play important functional roles through various GM-derived metabolites. Lactobacilli ultimately have a beneficial impact on lipid metabolism, inflammatory factors, and oxidative stress to relieve the symptoms of cardiovascular-related diseases. However, the axis and cellular process of gut commensal Lactobacillus in improving cardiovascular-related diseases have not been fully elucidated. Additionally, Lactobacillus strains produce diverse antimicrobial peptides, which help maintain intestinal homeostasis and ameliorate cardiovascular-related diseases. These strains are a field that needs to be further investigated immediately. Thus, this review demonstrated the mechanisms and summarized the evidence of the benefit of Lactobacillus strain supplementation from animal studies and human clinical trials. We also highlighted a broad range of lactobacilli candidates with therapeutic capability by mining their metabolites. Our study provides instruction in the development of lactobacilli as a functional food to improve cardiovascular-related diseases.

Interesting probiotic traits of mother's milk Lactobacillus isolates; from bacteriocin to inflammatory bowel disease improvement

AIMS AND BACKGROUND

Lactobacillus spp. are an important element in breast milk. This component has a beneficial effect on the composition of the intestinal microflora and the intestinal immune system. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify Lactobacillus strains in breast milk and evaluate some of their probiotic properties, such as presence of bacteriocin genes, adhesion to HT-29 cell line, competition with enteropathogens in cell culture, and effect on serum level of lipids and digestive enzymes, and mice model of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 323 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from breast milk samples of healthy mothers with the age ranges from 21 to 45 years old. These isolates were subjected to phenotypic and molecular experiments. The frequency of bacteriocin genes was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Adhesion of Lactobacillus isolates to HT-29 cells was measured based on the number of attached bacterial cells in 20 fields of the light microscopy. Competition test was done by colony count and real-time PCR procedures. Five strongly adhesive Lactobacillus strains were selected and administered orally to the treatment groups. After 8 days, the serum level of digestive enzymes and improvement in induced IBD, and after 14 days, the serum level of lipids (triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL, and LDL) in treated mice were surveyed compared to the control groups.

RESULTS

Based on the phenotypic and molecular experiments, L. casei, L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus, and L. acidophilus strains were isolated and identified in the breast milk samples. The highest frequency of bacteriocin genes belonged to Plantaricin B (100%), followed by Plantaricin D (84.7%), Plantaricin G (84.7%), and Plantaricin EF (54.3%). Also, 71.8% of the isolates were strongly adhesive, 21.8% were non-adhesive, and 6.4% were adhesive. Lactobacillus strains had a significant effect on the displacement of enteropathogens. The in vitro cholesterol-removing ability of L. casei (L1), L. casei (L2), L. casei (L3), L. plantarum (L4), and L. rhamnosus (L5) was 3.5, 31.5, 21.3, 18.7, and 27.3%, respectively. The serum level of total cholesterol in the L. plantarum (L4) group as well as LDL in the L. casei (L3) (p = .0108) and L. rhamnosus (L5) (p = .0206) groups decreased significantly compared to the control group. The serum level of lipase increased in all the treatment groups compared to the control group, which was significant in the L. plantarum (L4) group (p = .0390). Disease activity index (DAI) scores were improved significantly in L. casei (L3) group compared to the IBD control group (p < .0001).

CONCLUSION

It could be concluded that lactobacilli strains isolated from the breast milk samples had good probiotic properties, such as presence of bacteriocin genes, attaching to enterocyte-like HT-29 cells, competing with intestinal pathogens, lowering cholesterol, and improving IBD. Thus, after further studies, they could be considered as probiotic strains.

Lactobacillus reuteri TSR332 and Lactobacillus fermentum TSF331 stabilize serum uric acid levels and prevent hyperuricemia in rats

Background

Uric acid (UA) is the end product of purine metabolism in the liver and is excreted by the kidneys. When purine metabolism is impaired, the serum UA level will be elevated (hyperuricemia) and eventually lead to gout. During evolution, humans and some primates have lost the gene encoding uricase, which is vital in UA metabolism. With the advances of human society, the prevalence of hyperuricemia has dramatically increased because of the refined food culture. Hyperuricemia can be controlled by drugs, such as allopurinol and probenecid. However, these drugs have no preventive effect and are associated with unpleasant side effects. An increasing number of probiotic strains, which are able to regulate host metabolism and prevent chronic diseases without harmful side effects, have been characterized. The identification of probiotic strains, which are able to exert beneficial effects on UA metabolism, will provide an alternative healthcare strategy for patients with hyperuricemia, especially for those who are allergic to anti-hyperuricemia drugs.

Methods

To elicit hyperuricemia, rats in the symptom control group (HP) were injected with potassium oxonate and fed a high-purine diet. Rats in the probiotic groups received the high-purine diet, oxonate injection, and supplements of probiotic strains TSR332, TSF331, or La322. Rats in the blank control group (C) received a standard diet (AIN-93G) and oxonate injection.

Results

Purine-utilizing strains of probiotics were screened using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) in vitro, and the lowering effect on serum UA levels was analyzed in hyperuricemia rats in vivo. We found that Lactobacillus reuteri strain TSR332 and Lactobacillus fermentum strain TSF331 displayed significantly strong assimilation of inosine (90%; p = 0.00003 and 59%; p = 0.00545, respectively) and guanosine (78%; p = 0.00012 and 51%; p = 0.00062, respectively) within 30 min in vitro. Further animal studies revealed that serum UA levels were significantly reduced by 60% (p = 0.00169) and 30% (p = 0.00912), respectively, in hyperuricemic rats treated with TSR332 and TSF331 for 8 days. Remarkably, TSR332 ameliorated the occurrence of hyperuricemia, and no evident side effects were observed. Overall, our study indicates that TSR332 and TSF331 are potential functional probiotic strains for controlling the development of hyperuricemia.

Effect of Lactobacillus plantarum HT121 on serum lipid profile, gut microbiota, and liver transcriptome and metabolomics in a high-cholesterol diet-induced hypercholesterolemia rat model

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate effect of Lactobacillus plantarum HT121 on serum lipid profile, gut microbiota, and liver transcriptome and metabolomics.

METHODS

L. plantarum HT121 was selected by screening of acid and bile salt tolerance and cholesterol assimilation assay. Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups and fed the respective diets for 7 wk: normal chow diet (NCD), high-cholesterol diet (HCD), and high-cholesterol diet plus L. plantarum HT121 (HT121). After 7 wk, blood lipid profile was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, gut microbiota was determined by 16 S rRNA sequencing, gene expression, and bile acids in liver were detected by transcriptome and metabolomics, respectively.

RESULTS

L. plantarum HT121 feeding decreased serum triacylglycerols (TGs), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and increased serum high-density lipoprotein levels. HT121 treatment increased the α-diversity in the HT121 group to a level close to that in the NCD group, and restored the genera of Adlercreutzia, Mucispirillum, Ruminococcus, Clostridium, Blautia, Roseburia, and Akkermansia to levels similar to those in the NCD group. Furthermore, the high-cholesterol diet decreased taurocholic acid (TCA) and increased taurochenodeoxycholic acid (TCDCA) and glycocholic acid (GCA) in the liver; all these changes were reversed by HT121 treatment, bringing the levels close to those in the NCD group. Finally, HT121 treatment increased expression of bile secretion-related genes Cyp7 a1 in rat liver, which was positively correlated with TG, Clostridium, and GCA. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that TGs, TC, and LDL were positively correlated with the relative abundance of genera of Blautia, Clostridium, and Roseburia, and levels of bile acid glycocholic acid, and inversely correlated with the relative abundance of Ruminococcus and Mucispirillum.

CONCLUSIONS

L. plantarum HT121 can improve serum lipid profiles in a high-fat diet-induced rat model, which may be attributed to alteration in gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism.

Lactobacillus species in drinking water had no main effects on sulphur compounds from manure, egg quality, and selected serum parameters of second cycle hens

1. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a combined probiotic product (Lactobacillus paracasei, L. plantarum, and L. rhamnosus) on egg quality, sulphur compounds in manure and serum biochemistry of second cycle hens. 2. A total of 48 White Leghorn hens, at 52- to 54 weeks of age, were treated in a completely randomised design with water containing 0 or 1.8375 × 10¹⁰ cfu/l of probiotics for 8 weeks. 3. Probiotic supplementation did not affect egg quality. Albumen height and Haugh units were in general lowest in week 2 and highest in week 6. 4. For manure and serum parameters, water with or without probiotics produced statistically similar effects. An interacting trend for increasing concentrations of methyl mercaptan in manure was noted for probiotics x week, and should be further investigated. The week of supplementation significantly affected hydrogen sulphide, dimethyl sulphide, and triglycerides.

Lactobacillus reuteri attenuates cardiac injury without lowering cholesterol in low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient mice fed standard chow

Disruption of the normal gut microbiome (dysbiosis) is implicated in the progression and severity of myriad disorders, including hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular disease. Probiotics attenuate and reverse gut dysbiosis to improve cardiovascular risk factors like hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. Lactobacillus reuteri is a well-studied lactic acid-producing probiotic with known cholesterol-lowering properties and anti-inflammatory effects. In the present study, we hypothesized that L. reuteri delivered to hypercholesterolemic low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout (LDLr KO) mice will reduce cholesterol levels and minimize cardiac injury from an ischemic insult. L. reuteri [1 × 10⁹ or 50 × 10⁶ colony-forming units (CFU)/day] was administered by oral gavage to wild-type mice and LDLr KO for up to 6 wk followed by an ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) protocol. After 4 wk of gavage, total serum cholesterol in wild-type mice receiving saline was 113.5 ± 5.6 mg/dL compared with 113.3 ± 6.8 and 101.9 ± 7.5 mg/dL in mice receiving 1 × 10⁹ or 50 × 10⁶ CFU/day, respectively. Over the same time frame, administration of L. reuteri at 1 × 10⁹ or 50 × 10⁶ CFU/day did not lower total serum cholesterol (283.0 ± 11.1, 263.3 ± 5.0, and 253.1 ± 7.0 mg/dL; saline, 1 × 10⁹ or 50 × 10⁶ CFU/day, respectively) in LDLr KO mice. Despite no impact on total serum cholesterol, L. reuteri administration significantly attenuated cardiac injury following I/R, as evidenced by smaller infarct sizes compared with controls in both wild-type and LDLr KO groups. In conclusion, daily L. reuteri significantly protected against cardiac injury without lowering cholesterol levels, suggesting anti-inflammatory properties of L. reuteri uncoupled from improvements in serum cholesterol.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We demonstrated that daily delivery of Lactobacillus reuteri to wild-type and hypercholesterolemic lipoprotein receptor knockout mice attenuated cardiac injury following ischemia-reperfusion without lowering total serum cholesterol in the short term. In addition, we validated protection against cardiac injury using histology and immunohistochemistry techniques. L. reuteri offers promise as a probiotic to mitigate ischemic cardiac injury.

Gut microbiota and cardiovascular disease: opportunities and challenges

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common health problem worldwide and remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Over the past decade, it has become clear that the inhabitants of our gut, the gut microbiota, play a vital role in human metabolism, immunity, and reactions to diseases, including CAD. Although correlations have been shown between CAD and the gut microbiota, demonstration of potential causal relationships is much more complex and challenging. In this review, we will discuss the potential direct and indirect causal roots between gut microbiota and CAD development via microbial metabolites and interaction with the immune system. Uncovering the causal relationship of gut microbiota and CAD development can lead to novel microbiome-based preventative and therapeutic interventions. However, an interdisciplinary approach is required to shed light on gut bacterial-mediated mechanisms (e.g., using advanced nanomedicine technologies and incorporation of demographic factors such as age, sex, and ethnicity) to enable efficacious and high-precision preventative and therapeutic strategies for CAD.

Characteristics of Intestinal Microecology during Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Therapy for Mouse Acute Liver Injury

Background

The mechanisms of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation to protect against acute liver injury have been well studied within the liver. However, the associated changes in the intestinal microbiota during this process are poorly understood.

Methods

In this study, compact bone-derived MSCs were injected into mice after carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) administration. Potential curative effect of MSC was evaluated by survival rate and biochemical and pathological results. Overall structural changes of microbial communities and alterations in the intestinal microbiota were assessed by sequenced 16S rRNA amplicon libraries from the contents of the cecum and colon.

Results

MSCs significantly reduced the serum levels of aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase and improved the histopathology and survival rate. Lower expression and discontinuous staining of zonula occludens, as well as disrupted tight junctions, were observed in CCl₄-treated mice at 48 h compared with MSC-transplanted mice. Moreover, MSC transplantation to the liver leads to intestinal microbiota changes that were reflected in the decreased abundance of Bacteroidetes S24-7 and Bacteroidaceae and increased abundance of Firmicutes Clostridiales, Ruminococcaceae, and Lactobacillus at the initial time point compared with that in CCl₄-treated mice. In addition, phylogenetic investigation of communities by the reconstruction of unobserved states (PICRUSt) based on the Greengenes database revealed functional biomarkers of MSC-transplanted mice involved in cell motility, signal transduction, membrane transport, transcription, and metabolism of lipids, cofactors, vitamins, terpenoids, and polyketides, as well as xenobiotics.

Conclusion

The initial alterations in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, which resulted from MSC infusion to the liver, maintain intestinal mucosal biology and homeostasis that may be beneficial to liver repair.

Effect of swine-origin probiotic Pediococcus acidilactici FT28 on maintenance of antioxidant status, blood haematology and biochemical profile in early weaned grower-finisher pigs

An experiment was conducted with early weaned crossbred piglets (36) to evaluate antioxidant status and blood biochemical profile in grower-finisher pigs. The piglets were distributed into three groups (4 replicates of 3 each) and supplemented with basal diet either without probiotics (T0) or with a probiotic of dairy based (Lactobacillus acidophilus NCDC-15; T1) or swine based (Pediococcus acidilactici FT28; T2). Blood was collected at 45, 90 days (grower phase) and 136, 180 days (finisher phase) of feeding and analysed for various antioxidants and metabolites. Results of the study revealed that supplementation of probiotics improved superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and reduced glutathione (GSH) activity in early weaned grower-finisher pigs. Whereas, GSH activity was better in P. acidilactici FT28 fed group compared to L. acidophilus fed group. Serum glucose level was reduced in both T1 and T2 groups compared to control, which was further reduced in T2 group compared to T1. The total protein, albumin and globulin level in serum remained higher in T2 group in comparison to other dietary groups. Serum triglyceride and LDL-cholesterol was lower in P. acidilactici FT28 fed group. The HDL-cholesterol level was better by probiotic supplementation in grower-finisher pigs. It was concluded that supplementation of hostorigin probiotic was effective to reduce stress besides having potential to improve blood biochemical profile.

Effect of a novel potential probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei Jlus66 isolated from fermented milk on nonalcoholic fatty liver in rats

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the main cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Previous evidence indicates that probiotics can be applied as a therapeutic agent for NAFLD. In this study, the potential probiotic strain Lactobacillus paracasei Jlus66 was isolated from natural fermented milk by a culture-dependent method, and its probiotic potentials were tested by established in vitro tests. In addition, the protective effect of Lactobacillus paracasei Jlus66 against NAFLD was evaluated in rat models. Compared with the high-fat-diet (HFD) group, the rats administered with 4 × 10¹⁰ cfu Jlus66 had significantly lower body weight gain, serum triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) as well as aminotransferase (ALT). Histopathological analysis showed Jlus66 also reduced the level of hepatic triglycerides and steatosis. From the above we conclude that L. paracasei Jlus66 has great potential as a probiotic in protecting from NAFLD.

The Inhibitory Effect of L. plantarum Q180 on Adipocyte Differentiation in 3T3-L1 and Reduction of Adipocyte Size in Mice Fed High-fat Diet

In this study, we examined the inhibitory effect of L. plantarum Q180 on adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 and reduction of adipocyte size in mice fed high-fat diet. L. plantarum Q180 inhibited the adipocyte differentiation of 3T3-L1 cells (18.47 ± 0.32%) at a concentration of 400 µg/mL (10⁸ CFU/g). As a result of western blot analysis, the expression of C/EBPα and PPARγ in 3T3-L1 adipocyte treated with 400 µg/mL of L. plantarum Q180 decreased 35.16% and 40.07%, respectively, compared with the control. To examine the effects, mice were fed three different diets as follows: ND (n=6) was fed ND and orally administered saline solution; HFD (n=6), HFD and orally administered saline solution; and HFD+Q180 (n=6), HFD and orally administered L. plantarum Q180. After six weeks, the rate of increase of body weight was 13.7% lower in the HFD+Q180 group compared to the HFD group. In addition, the epididymal fat weights of the HFD+Q180 group were lower than that of the HFD group. The change of adipocyte size was measured in diet-induced obese mice. Consequently, the number of large-size adipose tissue was less distributed in the ND and HFD+Q180 groups than in the HFD group. L. plantarum Q180 has an effect on the inhibition of 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation, fat absorption and reduction of adipocyte size. L. plantarum Q180 could be applied to functional food products that help improve obesity.

Genetic and microbiome influence on lipid metabolism and dyslipidemia

Disruption in the metabolism of lipids is broadly classified under dyslipidemia and relates to the concentration of lipids in the blood. Dyslipidemia is a predictor of cardio-metabolic disease including obesity. Traditionally, the large interindividual variation has been related to genetic factors and diet. Genome-wide association studies have identified over 150 loci related to abnormal lipid levels, explaining ~40% of the total variation. Part of the unexplained variance has been attributed to environmental factors including diet, but the extent of the dietary contribution remains unquantified. Furthermore, other factors are likely to influence lipid metabolism including the gut microbiome, which plays an important role in the digestion of different dietary components including fats and polysaccharides. Here we describe the contributing role of host genetics and the gut microbiome to dyslipidemia and discuss the potential therapeutic implications of advances in understanding the gut microbiome to the treatment of dyslipidemia.

Cholesterol lowering by Pediococcus acidilactici LAB4 and Lactobacillus plantarum LAB12 in adult zebrafish is associated with improved memory and involves an interplay between npc1l1 and abca1

This study assessed the cholesterol lowering effect of Pediococcus acidilactici LAB4 and Lactobacillus plantarum LAB12 using adult zebrafish. Animals were fed with a high cholesterol diet (HCD) with/without LAB for seven weeks. Serum and liver cholesterol was quantified using colorimetric and dye staining methods. Expressions of npc1l1 and abca1 in the liver and intestine and appa in the brain were quantified using RT-PCR. Serum and liver cholesterol was significantly lowered in LAB4- and LAB12-fed zebrafish (≤64% and ≤71%, respectively), with reduced liver cholesterol deposition. The cholesterol lowering effect was accompanied by down-regulation of npc1l1 in intestines (≤28.7%), up-regulation of abca1 in the liver (≥30.5%) and down-regulation of appa in the brain (≤24.5%). A moderately strong positive Pearson correlation (r = 0.617, p < 0.01) was found between appa and serum cholesterol. LAB-fed zebrafish exhibited improved spatial learning and memory. LAB4 and LAB12 can be potentially used in preventing hypercholesterolaemia and Alzheimer's diseases.

Microbes and Oxytocin: Benefits for Host Physiology and Behavior

It is now understood that gut bacteria exert effects beyond the local boundaries of the gastrointestinal tract to include distant tissues and overall health. Prototype probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus reuteri has been found to upregulate hormone oxytocin and systemic immune responses to achieve a wide array of health benefits involving wound healing, mental health, metabolism, and myoskeletal maintenance. Together these display that the gut microbiome and host animal interact via immune-endocrine-brain signaling networks. Such findings provide novel therapeutic strategies to stimulate powerful homeostatic pathways and genetic programs, stemming from the coevolution of mammals and their microbiome.

Yield improvement of exopolysaccharides by screening of the Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC and optimization of the fermentation and extraction conditions

Exopolysacharides (EPS) produced by Lactobacillus acidophilus play an important role in food processing with its well-recognized antioxidant activity. In this study, a L. acidophilus mutant strain with high-yielding EPS (2.92±0.05 g/L) was screened by chemical mutation (0.2 % diethyl sulfate). Plackett-Burman (PB) design and response surface methodology (RSM) were applied to optimize the EPS fermentation parameters and central composite design (CCD) was used to optimize the EPS extraction parameters. A strain with high-yielding EPS was screened. It was revealed that three parameters (Tween 80, dipotassium hydrogen phosphate and trisodium citrate) had significant influence (P < 0.05) on the EPS yield. The optimal culture conditions for EPS production were: Tween 80 0.6 mL, dipotassium hydrogen phosphate 3.6 g and trisodium citrate 4.1 g (with culture volume of 1 L). In these conditions, the maximum EPS yield was 3.96±0.08 g/L. The optimal extraction conditions analyzed by CCD were: alcohol concentration 70 %, the ratio of material to liquid (M/L ratio) 1:3.6 and the extraction time 31 h. In these conditions, the maximum EPS extraction yield was 1.48±0.23 g/L. It was confirmed by the verification experiments that the EPS yield from L. acidophilus mutant strains reached 5.12±0.73 g/L under the optimized fermentation and extraction conditions, which was 3.8 times higher than that of the control (1.05±0.06 g/L). The results indicated that the strain screening with high-yielding EPS was successful and the optimized fermentation and extraction conditions significantly enhanced EPS yield. It was efficient and industrially promising.

The triglyceride-lowering effect of supplementation with dual probiotic strains, Lactobacillus curvatus HY7601 and Lactobacillus plantarum KY1032: Reduction of fasting plasma lysophosphatidylcholines in nondiabetic and hypertriglyceridemic subjects

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

This study evaluated the triglyceride (TG)-lowering effects of consuming dual probiotic strains of Lactobacillus curvatus (L. curvatus) HY7601 and Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) KY1032 on the fasting plasma metabolome.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted on 92 participants with hypertriglyceridemia but without diabetes. Over a 12-week testing period, the probiotic group consumed 2 g of powder containing 5 × 10(9) colony-forming units (cfu) of L. curvatus HY7601 and 5 × 10(9) cfu of L. plantarum KY1032 each day, whereas the placebo group consumed the same product without probiotics. Fasting plasma metabolomes were profiled using UPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap MS. After 12 weeks of treatment, the probiotic group displayed a 20% reduction (p = 0.001) in serum TGs and 25% increases (p=0.001) in apolipoprotein A-V (apoA-V). At the 12-week follow-up assessment, the following 11 plasma metabolites were significantly reduced in the probiotic group than the placebo group: palmitoleamide, palmitic amide, oleamide, and lysophosphatidyl choline (lysoPC) containing C14:0, C16:1, C16:0, C17:0, C18:3, C18:2, C18:1, and C20:3. In the probiotic group, changes (▵) in TG were negatively correlated with ▵ apoA-V, which was positively correlated with ▵ FFA. In addition, ▵ FFA was strongly and positively correlated with ▵ lysoPCs in the probiotic group but not the placebo group.

CONCLUSIONS

The triglyceride-lowering effects of probiotic supplementation, partly through elevated apoA-V, in borderline to moderate hypertriglyceridemic subjects showed reductions in plasma metabolites, fatty acid primary amides and lysoPCs (NCT02215694; http://www.clinicaltrials.gov). Clinical trials: NCT02215694; http://www.clinicaltrials.gov.

Characterisation and preliminary lipid-lowering evaluation of Lactobacillus isolated from a traditional Serbian dairy product

We investigated the potential probiotic properties of indigenous lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from Serbian homemade cheese. Seventeen LAB strains were isolated and characterised using standard protocols. One of the strains showed several probiotic properties: survival at low pH and in bile salts solution, antimicrobial activity, susceptibility to antibiotics and adhesion to hexodecane. DNA analysis identified the isolate as Lactobacillus casei, hereafter named L. casei 5s. The lipid lowering effect of L. casei 5s was evaluated in vivo using a hyperlipidemic rat model. Orally administered L. casei 5s significantly decreased the elevated total serum cholesterol and triglycerides, and attenuated macro vesicular steatosis in the liver. Moreover, L. casei 5s improved the intestinal microbial balance in favour of lactobacilli, while decreasing the number of Escherichia coli cells. The bacteria were re-isolated and identified from the surface of the intestinal mucosa and from the faecal samples of treated animals, indicating adhesiveness and colonisation ability. The results of an acute oral toxicity study in mice and the absence of translocation to other organs demonstrated the safety of the strain. In conclusion, L. casei 5s demonstrated promising probiotic potential and might be a good candidate for more detailed investigations.

Role of Nutraceuticals in Hypolipidemic Therapy

Nutraceuticals are food components or active ingredients present in foods and used in therapy. This article analyzes the characteristics of the molecules with a lipid-lowering effect. The different nutraceuticals may have different mechanisms of action: inhibition of cholesterol synthesis primarily through action on the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase (policosanol, polyphenols, garlic and, above all, red yeast rice), increase in LDL receptor activity (berberine), reduction of intestinal cholesterol absorption (garlic, plant sterols, probiotics), and also the ability to interfere with bile metabolism (probiotics, guggul). Based on the different mechanisms of action, some nutraceuticals are then able to enhance the action of statins. Nutraceuticals are often used without relevant evidence: mechanisms of action are not clearly confirmed; most of clinical data are derived from small, uncontrolled studies, and finally, except for fermented red rice, there are no clinical trials which may document the relationship between these interventions and the reduction of clinical events. Therefore, among all nutraceuticals, it is necessary to extrapolate those having a really documentable efficacy. However, these kinds of treatments are usually well-tolerated by patients. Overall, subjects with a middle or low cardiovascular risk are the best indication of nutraceuticals, but they may also be useful for patients experiencing side effects during classical therapies. Finally, in consideration of the additive effect of some nutraceuticals, a combination therapy with classical drugs may improve the achievement of clinical targets. Thus, nutraceuticals may be a helpful alternative in hypolipidemic treatment and, if properly used, might represent a valid strategy of cardiovascular prevention.

A Randomized Double-blind Controlled Trial of Lactobacillus acidophilus Plus Bifidobacterium bifidum versus Placebo in Patients with Hypercholesterolemia

BACKGROUND

Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Not all patients respond well to traditional cholesterol lowering medications. Probiotics have been evaluated for their cholesterol-lowering effects in humans with variable results. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of two probiotics in lowering the serum cholesterol of hypercholesterolemic patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A randomized double-blind controlled trial was conducted comparing placebo to Lactobacillus acidophilus plus Bifidobacterium bifidum in patients diagnosed with hypercholesterolemia. Placebo or probiotic capsules were taken three times daily for six weeks. Pre- and post-treatment total cholesterol (TC), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglyceride (TG) levels and demographic parameters of the two groups were compared. From a total of 70 participants, 64 completed the assigned treatment (31 in probiotics group and 33 in the control group).The two treatment groups were matched for age, sex, weight, height, BMI, waist and hip circumferences, and blood pressure.

RESULTS

Baseline evaluation revealed no difference between the probiotics group and control group levels of TC, HDL-C, LDL-C and TG. TC levels in the probiotics group decreased during treatment (237.2 vs. 212.7 mg/dL, p<0.05). TC and LDL-C levels in the control group increased significantly from their baseline levels during treatment. TC (212.7 vs 252.8 mg/dL, p<0.001), HDL-C (52.0 vs 59.1 mg/dL, p=0.04) and LDL-C (153.9 vs 182.1 mg/dL, p<0.01) levels in the probiotics group were significantly lower at the end of treatment than the corresponding levels in the control group.

CONCLUSION

A combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum decreased serum total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol levels in hypercholesterolemic patients over a six week period. There was no effect on serum triglyceride or fasting blood glucose levels.

A new insight into the physiological role of bile salt hydrolase among intestinal bacteria from the genus Bifidobacterium

This study analyzes the occurrence of bile salt hydrolase in fourteen strains belonging to the genus Bifidobacterium. Deconjugation activity was detected using a plate test, two-step enzymatic reaction and activity staining on a native polyacrylamide gel. Subsequently, bile salt hydrolases from B. pseudocatenulatum and B. longum subsp. suis were purified using a two-step chromatographic procedure. Biochemical characterization of the bile salt hydrolases showed that the purified enzymes hydrolyzed all of the six major human bile salts under the pH and temperature conditions commonly found in the human gastrointestinal tract. Next, the dynamic rheometry was applied to monitor the gelation process of deoxycholic acid under different conditions. The results showed that bile acids displayed aqueous media gelating properties. Finally, gel-forming abilities of bifidobacteria exhibiting bile salt hydrolase activity were analyzed. Our investigations have demonstrated that the release of deconjugated bile acids led to the gelation phenomenon of the enzymatic reaction solution containing purified BSH. The presented results suggest that bile salt hydrolase activity commonly found among intestinal microbiota increases hydrogel-forming abilities of certain bile salts. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing that bile salt hydrolase activity among Bifidobacterium is directly connected with the gelation process of bile salts. In our opinion, if such a phenomenon occurs in physiological conditions of human gut, it may improve bacterial ability to colonize the gastrointestinal tract and their survival in this specific ecological niche.

Cholesterol assimilation by Lactobacillus probiotic bacteria: an in vitro investigation

Excess cholesterol is associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD), an important cause of mortality worldwide. Current CVD therapeutic measures, lifestyle and dietary interventions, and pharmaceutical agents for regulating cholesterol levels are inadequate. Probiotic bacteria have demonstrated potential to lower cholesterol levels by different mechanisms, including bile salt hydrolase activity, production of compounds that inhibit enzymes such as 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A, and cholesterol assimilation. This work investigates 11 Lactobacillus strains for cholesterol assimilation. Probiotic strains for investigation were selected from the literature: Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 11951, L. reuteri NCIMB 701359, L. reuteri NCIMB 702655, L. reuteri NCIMB 701089, L. reuteri NCIMB 702656, Lactobacillus fermentum NCIMB 5221, L. fermentum NCIMB 8829, L. fermentum NCIMB 2797, Lactobacillus rhamnosus ATCC 53103 GG, Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 314, and Lactobacillus plantarum ATCC 14917. Cholesterol assimilation was investigated in culture media and under simulated intestinal conditions. The best cholesterol assimilator was L. plantarum ATCC 14917 (15.18±0.55 mg/10(10) cfu) in MRS broth. L. reuteri NCIMB 701089 assimilated over 67% (2254.70±63.33 mg/10(10) cfu) of cholesterol, the most of all the strains, under intestinal conditions. This work demonstrates that probiotic bacteria can assimilate cholesterol under intestinal conditions, with L. reuteri NCIMB 701089 showing great potential as a CVD therapeutic.

Lactobacillus plantarum LG42 isolated from gajami sik-hae decreases body and fat pad weights in diet-induced obese mice

AIMS

This study investigated the antiobesity effect of lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus plantarum LG42) isolated from gajami sik-hae.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Male C57BL/6J mice were divided into four groups (n = 10); NDC (normal diet & DW), HDC (high-fat diet & DW), LGLAB (high-fat diet & Lactobacillus plantarum LG42, 1 × 10(7) CFU per mouse), HGLAB (high-fat diet & L. plantarum LG42, 1 × 10(9) CFU per mouse). After 12 weeks, GLAB supplemented groups showed lower body weight, with a significant reduction in epididymal and back fat. Serum and hepatic triglyceride, serum insulin and leptin levels were significantly lowered in GLAB supplemented groups. The hepatic mRNA expression of PPARα and CPT-I were significantly increased in GLAB groups, whereas the level of ACC, SREBP-1 and LXRα were significantly decreased in GLAB groups compared with HDC group. Additionally, GLAB reduces the expression of PPARγ in the epididymal adipose tissue resulting in inhibition of genes regulated by PPARγ.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the Lactobacillus plantarum LG42 has antiobesity effects in high-fat-diet-induced obese mice.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

These results may contribute to nutraceutical and food industries in developing functional food and probiotics based therapies for the treatment and prevention of obesity.

Probiotic properties of Lactobacillus strains isolated from Tibetan kefir grains

The objective of this study was to evaluate the functional properties of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from Tibetan kefir grains. Three Lactobacillus isolates identified as Lactobacillus acidophilus LA15, Lactobacillus plantarum B23 and Lactobacillus kefiri D17 that showed resistance to acid and bile salts were selected for further evaluation of their probiotic properties. The 3 selected strains expressed high in vitro adherence to Caco-2 cells. They were sensitive to gentamicin, erythromycin and chloramphenicol and resistant to vancomycin with MIC values of 26 µg/ml. All 3 strains showed potential bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity, cholesterol assimilation and cholesterol co-precipitation ability. Additionally, the potential effect of these strains on plasma cholesterol levels was evaluated in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Rats in 4 treatment groups were fed the following experimental diets for 4 weeks: a high-cholesterol diet, a high-cholesterol diet plus LA15, a high-cholesterol diet plus B23 or a high-cholesterol diet plus D17. The total cholesterol, triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in the serum were significantly (P<0.05) decreased in the LAB-treated rats compared with rats fed a high-cholesterol diet without LAB supplementation. The high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in groups B23 and D17 were significantly (P<0.05) higher than those in the control and LA15 groups. Additionally, both fecal cholesterol and bile acid levels were significantly (P<0.05) increased after LAB administration. Fecal lactobacilli counts were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the LAB treatment groups than in the control groups. Furthermore, the 3 strains were detected in the rat small intestine, colon and feces during the feeding trial. The bacteria levels remained high even after the LAB administration had been stopped for 2 weeks. These results suggest that these strains may be used in the future as probiotic starter cultures for manufacturing novel fermented foods.

Receptor-like Molecules on Human Intestinal Epithelial Cells Interact with an Adhesion Factor from Lactobacillus reuteri

A surface protein of Lactobacillus reuteri, mucus adhesion-promoting protein (MapA), is considered to be an adhesion factor. MapA is expressed in L. reuteri strains and adheres to piglet gastric mucus, collagen type I, and human intestinal epithelial cells such as Caco-2. The aim of this study was to identify molecules that mediate the attachment of MapA from L. reuteri to the intestinal epithelial cell surface by investigating the adhesion of MapA to receptor-like molecules on Caco-2 cells. MapA-binding receptor-like molecules were detected in Caco-2 cell lysates by 2D-PAGE. Two proteins, annexin A13 (ANXA13) and paralemmin (PALM), were identified by MALDI TOF-MS. The results of a pull-down assay showed that MapA bound directly to ANXA13 and PALM. Fluorescence microscopy studies confirmed that MapA binding to ANXA13 and PALM was colocalized on the Caco-2 cell membrane. To evaluate whether ANXA13 and PALM are important for MapA adhesion, ANXA13 and PALM knockdown cell lines were established. The adhesion of MapA to the abovementioned cell lines was reduced compared with that to wild-type Caco-2 cells. These knockdown experiments established the importance of these receptor-like molecules in MapA adhesion.

Lactobacillus pentosus var. plantarum C29 protects scopolamine-induced memory deficit in mice

AIMS

In the preliminary study, kimchi, a traditional food fermented with Chinese cabbage, protected scopolamine-induced mouse memory deficit in passive avoidance test. Therefore, we screened protective ingredients, particularly lactic acid bacteria, from Chinese cabbage kimchi against scopolamine-induced memory deficit in mice.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Lactic acid bacteria, isolated from Chinese cabbage kimchi, were identified by 16S rDNA sequence analysis, G+C content and cellular fatty acid composition and sugar fermentation test. Memory deficit was induced in mice by intraperitoneally injecting with scopolamine. Kimchi, particularly its supernatant, protected scopolamine-induced memory deficit in mice in passive avoidance test. Of kimchi ingredients, a lactic acid bacterium, strain C29, potently protected scopolamine-induced memory deficit in mice. C29 was a gram-positive, catalase-negative, anaerobic and non-motile rod. Its pylogenetic property was near to Lactobacillus pentosus (99%) and Lact. plantarum (99%). However, C29 fermented inulin and L-rhamnose and grew in pH 3 and at 45°C in contrast with Lact. pentosus and Lact. plantarum. Therefore, it named to be Lact pentosus var. plantarum C29. The strain C29 protected scopolamine-induced memory deficit in Y-maze and Morris water maze tests. Furthermore, C29 increased hippocampal BDNF and p-CREB expressions, which were reduced by scopolamine.

CONCLUSION

Lactobacillus pentosus var. plantarum C29 may protect memory deficit by inducing BDNF and p-CREB expressions.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Lactic acid bacteria, such as Lact pentosus var. plantarum C29, may prevent memory deficit and its contained fermented foods may be beneficial for dementia.

Selection of potential probiotic lactobacilli for cholesterol-lowering properties and their effect on cholesterol metabolism in rats fed a high-lipid diet

The objectives of this study were to screen probiotic characteristics of lactobacilli isolated from traditionally homemade koumiss products in Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia of China, and to determine and compare the effect of the Lactobacillus strains in vivo on lipid metabolism in rats fed with a high-lipid diet. Three out of 68 strains of Lactobacillus isolated from the koumiss were screened for bile-salt resistance, acid tolerance, and different hypocholesterolemic properties. The cholesterol-lowering effects of the 3 screened strains were estimated in rats fed a high-lipid diet by determination of serum lipids, liver, and fecal cholesterol, fecal total bile acids, and short-chain fatty acids. After a 4-wk feeding period, in comparison with the control group, the groups LIP-1 and MG9-2 had a significant reduction in serum total cholesterol, triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and significantly increased high-density lipoprotein, the group E7301 had similar effects on serum lipids, but the change was not significant. The groups LIP-1, MG9-2 and E7301 had a significant reduction in liver cholesterol content and an increase in fecal cholesterol content compared with the control group. Total bile acid excretion was significantly higher in rats fed MG9-2 than the other groups. Rats fed diets containing lactic acid bacteria strains had significantly higher propionic acid and butyric acid concentrations in the feces compared with the control. Results indicated that the 3 screened Lactobacillus strains were able to lower cholesterol in vitro, and reduce cholesterol effectively in vivo. The mechanisms behind the hypocholesterolemic effect of 3 strains are likely to be diverse and will need further investigation.

Fatty acid profile of pig meat after probiotic administration

The aim of this work was to study the fatty acid profile of pig meat after probiotic administration. Thirty postweaned pigs (25 day old) were distributed into 2 groups: control (n = 15) and probiotic (n = 15). Each experimental group was fed ad libitum on a commercial diet for 35 days. Lactobacillus amylovorus and Enterococcus faecium mixed culture (10(8) CFU/ml)was daily orally delivered to the probiotic group. At the end of the assay, six pigs randomly selected from each group were slaughtered and muscle samples (Longissimus dorsi) were taken for fatty acid analysis. Tissues from the probiotic group animals exhibited an increase in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids; furthermore, linoleic acid (C18:2), linolenic acid (18:3), and cis-9,trans-11 conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) concentrations were significantly higher (p < 0.05) compared to the control group. These results suggest probiotic administration could be useful to modify and improve the fatty acid profile of pig meat.