A survey into the utilization of probiotics and medicinal plants among individuals afflicted with gastrointestinal disorders in healthcare institutions in Saïda, Algeria

Aim: Functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are recognized as a major public health concern worldwide. These disorders involve persistent digestive symptoms indicative of digestive tract dysfunction.Materials and Methods: A survey examining the utilisation of probiotics and medicinal plants as supplementary treatments was conducted on 160 patients with GI disorders at healthcare institutions in Saïda from March to April 2023 using questionnaires that had been previously adapted and tested for reliability with Cronbach's alpha test. Raw data collected through the questionnaires were transferred to a database and analysed using SPSS software.Results: Overall, 49.38% of participants possessed knowledge of or actively utilised probiotics; such awareness was strongly associated with the participants' educational attainment (p = 0.029). The noteworthy probiotic supplements were Biocharbon (36.09%), Lactocil (15.38%), Smebiocta (13.61%), Ultrabiotic Adult (12.43%), Effidigest (12.43%), and Ultralevure (7.69%). During crisis, individuals tended to consume natural goods rich in probiotics, including yoghurt (13.26%) and fermented milk (8.60%), as well as foods rich in prebiotic fibre, including vegetables (18.99%), fruits (13.26%), wheat (9.67%), bran (7.52%), rye (6.81%), and oat flakes (6.45%). Additionally, 77.56% of patients used medicinal plants during crises, with Mentha spicata (12.2%), Thymus vulgaris (11.3%), Pimpinella anisum (8.5%), Cuminum cyminum (8.0%), Punica granatum (7.8%), Trachyspermum ammi (7.5%), and Senna acutifolia (7.0%) being the more commonly favoured options in phytotherapy. The main focus of these herbs was to alleviate bloating (57%), constipation (30.12%), and diarrhoea (12.87%) (p < 0.001). The most frequently utilised plant parts were leaves (47.30%), seeds (25.21%), and bark (13.21%). Most patients (82.91%) favoured infusion as their preferred consumption method, and approximately 85.43% believed in phytotherapy's ability to extend symptomatic relief.Conclusion: The understanding of probiotics is still in its infancy, whereas phytotherapy is more widely accepted by patients. Nonetheless, patients are open to the exploration of natural alternatives to conventional medicines.

Impacts of probiotics on the efficacies of immune checkpoint inhibitors with or without chemotherapy for patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer

The relationships between the therapeutic effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and the intestinal flora have attracted increasing attention. However, the effects of oral probiotics on the efficacies of ICIs used to treat non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain unclear. We investigated the effects of probiotics on the efficacies of ICIs in patients treated with and without chemotherapy. We investigated patients with advanced NSCLC on ICI monotherapy or combination ICI and chemotherapy using the Okayama Lung Cancer Study Group Immunotherapy Database (OLCSG-ID) and the Okayama Lung Cancer Study Group Immunochemotherapy Database (OLCSG-ICD). In total, 927 patients (482 on ICI monotherapy, 445 on an ICI + chemotherapy) were enrolled. Most were male, of good performance status, smokers, and without epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) mutations. Probiotics were administered to 19% of patients on ICI monotherapies and 17% of those on ICIs + chemotherapy. Of the former patients, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were significantly better in the probiotics group (PFS 7.9 vs. 2.9 months, hazard ratio [HR] 0.54, p < .001; OS not attained vs. 13.1 months, HR 0.45, p < .001). Among patients receiving ICI and chemotherapy, there were no significant differences in PFS between those on probiotics and not but OS was significantly better in the probiotics group (PFS 8.8 vs. 8.6 months, HR 0.89, p = .43; OS not attained vs. 22.6 months, HR 0.61, p = .03). Patients on probiotics experienced better outcomes following ICI treatment.

The potential beneficial effects of Lactobacillus plantarum GM11 on rats with chronic unpredictable mild stress- induced depression

OBJECTIVE

The main purpose of the present study was to assess the beneficial effect of Lactobacillus plantarum GM11 (LacP GM11), screened from Sichuan traditional fermented food, in depressive rats induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS).

METHODS

Male SPF SD rats were randomly assigned to 3 groups: the control group, CUMS group and CUMS + LacP GM11 group (n = 10). The rats in the CUMS and LacP GM11 groups received CUMS stimulation for 42 d. The behavioral tests and levels of monoamine neurotransmitter, glucocorticoid hormone and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the serum and hippocampus were measured. The effects of LacP GM11 on the mRNA and protein expression of BDNF and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) in the hippocampus were also investigated.

RESULTS

After supplementation for 21 d, LacP GM11 was associated with alleviation of depressive-like behavior, not anxiety-like behavior, in depressive rats. LacP GM11 increased the levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and BDNF and decreased the level of cortisol (CORT) in the serum and hippocampus in depressed rats. In addition, treatment with LacP GM11 also increased the mRNA and protein expression of BDNF and CREB in the hippocampus.

CONCLUSIONS

This work has revealed that LacP GM11 has potential beneficial effects on depression. This effect might be related to alleviating monoamine neurotransmitter deficiency, HPA axis hyperfunction and CREB-BDNF signaling pathway downregulation. This study demonstrates that LacP GM11 could be a potential therapeutic approach to treat depression and other mental health problems.

Molecular docking studies on α-amylase inhibitory peptides from milk of different farm animals

Milk-derived peptides have emerged as a popular mean to manage various lifestyle disorders such as diabetes. Fermentation is being explored as one of the faster and efficient way of producing peptides with antidiabetic potential. Therefore, in this study, an attempt was made to comparatively investigate the pancreatic α-amylase (PAA) inhibitory properties of peptides derived from milk of different farm animals through probiotic fermentation. Peptide's identification was carried out using liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry and inhibition mechanisms were characterized by molecular docking. Results obtained showed a PAA-IC50 value (the amount of protein equivalent needed to inhibit 50% of enzymes) between 2.39 and 36.1 µg protein equivalent for different fermented samples. Overall, Pediococcus pentosaceus MF000957-derived fermented milk from all animals indicated higher PAA inhibition than other probiotic derived fermented milk (PAA-IC50 values of 6.01, 3.53, 15.6, and 10.8 µg protein equivalent for bovine, camel, goat, and sheep fermented milk). Further, molecular docking analysis indicated that camel milk-derived peptide IMEQQQTEDEQQDK and goat milk-derived peptide DQHQKAMKPWTQPK were the most potent PAA inhibitory peptides. Overall, the study concluded that fermentation derived peptides may prove useful in for managing diabetes via inhibition of carbohydrate digesting enzyme PAA.

Influence of supplementation with iron and probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus curvatus on selected parameters of inflammatory state in rats on a high-fat iron-deficient diet

BACKGROUND

A high-fat (HF) diet, diet iron deficiency and iron supplementation may affect inflammatory parameters. Probiotics influence both iron metabolism and inflammation. We compared the inflammatory state in rats on a HF iron-deficient diet receiving oral iron, Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus curvatus in different combinations.

METHODS

This was a two-stage experiment. In groups C (n = 8) and HF (n = 8), rats ate a control or HF diet, respectively, for 16 weeks. In the group HFDEF (n = 48), rats ate a HF iron-deficient diet for 8 weeks (first stage) and were subsequently divided into 6 groups (n = 8 each) receiving the following for a further 8 weeks (second stage): HFDEF - a HF iron-deficient diet; HFDEFFe - a HF iron-deficient diet with iron; HFDEFLp and HFDEFLc - a HF iron-deficient diet with L. plantarum or L. curvatus, respectively; and HFDEFFeLp and HFDEFFeLc - a HF iron-deficient diet with iron and L. plantarum or L. curvatus, respectively. Body composition analysis and blood sampling was performed. Markers of iron status and levels of total antioxidant status (TAS), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were measured in the blood.

RESULTS

TAS was higher in the HFDEF group (756.57 ± 489.53 ng mL-1) versus the HFDEFLc group (187.04 ± 47.84 ng mL-1; P = 0.022). No more differences were found between groups, or in TAS, CRP, TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations. Also, no differences were found between groups for alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, glucose, total cholesterol, low- and high-density lipoproteins and triglycerides. TAS level was positively correlated with ferritin concentration, IL-6 with TAS and TNF-α with hepcidin level.

CONCLUSIONS

Supplementation with L. plantarum, L. curvatus and iron in combinations exerts no influence on inflammatory status, lipid profile, hepatic function and serum fasting glucose in rats on a HF iron-deficient diet. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effectiveness of phototherapy with and without probiotics for the treatment of indirect hyperbilirubinaemia in preterm neonates: a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Raised serum bilirubin levels can cause kernicterus, and premature infants are at increased risk owing to metabolic immaturity. The standard treatment for neonatal jaundice is phototherapy, but probiotics alone can reduce the duration of phototherapy and hospitalisation.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effectiveness of phototherapy with and without probiotics for the treatment of indirect hyperbilirubinaemia in preterm neonates.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The open-labelled randomised controlled trial was conducted from January 2022 to January 2023 in the neonatal unit of the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital, Pakistan. A total of 76 preterm neonates who fulfilled the selection criteria were included and divided into two groups. Both groups received standard phototherapy. In Group B, a probiotic (Saccharomyces boulardii) 125 mg, twice daily, orally (in 5 cc of whichever milk the infant was receiving) was given until discharge from hospital. The primary outcome measurements were the duration of phototherapy and the length of hospitalisation.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) duration of phototherapy was 36.55 (14.25) hours in Group A and 24.61 (9.25) hours in Group B (p <0.05). The mean (SD) duration of hospital stay was 47.36 (16.51) hours in Group A and 33.13 (8.93) hours in Group B (p <0.05).

CONCLUSION

Oral probiotics (Saccharomyces boulardii) have a significant effect on the duration of phototherapy for neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia, and they decrease the chances of nosocomial infection. Exploration of clinical outcomes by investigating faecal flora and undertaking large randomised controlled trials of various probiotics are needed.

ABBREVIATIONS

ABE: acute bilirubin encephalopathy; CNS: central nervous system; GA: gestational age; IVIG: intravenous immunoglobulin; KSD: kernicterus; NNU: neonatal unit; RCT: randomised controlled trial; S. boulardii: Saccharomyces boulardii.

Formulation of a probiotic product using Almond gum

BACKGROUND

The application of probiotics in food has expanded significantly, yet its viability remains a challenge. In response to this issue, this study explores a unique approach. Almond gum, a natural extract from Prunus dulcis, is utilized as the primary carrier matrix for a novel probiotic product featuring Saccharomyces boulardii, a probiotic yeast.

METHODS

This study involves the entrapment of S. boulardii in almond gum through centrifugation (5 min at 1300 × g) and subsequent 24 h drying at 50 °C. Sensory evaluation and other investigations were conducted at different pH levels to assess viability and performance.

RESULTS

Post-drying entrapment efficiency was 83.85%, underscoring the benefits of choosing almond gum as a carrier matrix. Promising results were observed from viability testing conducted in gastric juice (pH 1.2) and in simulated intestinal fluid (pH 6.8). Matrix stability was assessed by measuring cfu ml-1 following 7 days' storage at different temperatures, complemented by sensory analysis.

CONCLUSION

Almond gum is a promising carrier matrix for probiotic products. Its high entrapment efficiency and its viability under challenging pH conditions demonstrate its efficacy. It is rich in carbohydrates and serves a dual purpose by acting as a prebiotic source, as confirmed through ultraviolet-visible (UV-visible) analysis. The study underscores the potential of this novel approach, providing insights into responses to viability challenges in probiotic food products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Oral delivery of probiotics using single-cell encapsulation

Adequate intake of live probiotics is beneficial to human health and wellbeing because they can help treat or prevent a variety of health conditions. However, the viability of probiotics is reduced by the harsh environments they experience during passage through the human gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Consequently, the oral delivery of viable probiotics is a significant challenge. Probiotic encapsulation provides a potential solution to this problem. However, the production methods used to create conventional encapsulation technologies often damage probiotics. Moreover, the delivery systems produced often do not have the required physicochemical attributes or robustness for food applications. Single-cell encapsulation is based on forming a protective coating around a single probiotic cell. These coatings may be biofilms or biopolymer layers designed to protect the probiotic from the harsh gastrointestinal environment, enhance their colonization, and introduce additional beneficial functions. This article reviews the factors affecting the oral delivery of probiotics, analyses the shortcomings of existing encapsulation technologies, and highlights the potential advantages of single-cell encapsulation. It also reviews the various approaches available for single-cell encapsulation of probiotics, including their implementation and the characteristics of the delivery systems they produce. In addition, the mechanisms by which single-cell encapsulation can improve the oral bioavailability and health benefits of probiotics are described. Moreover, the benefits, limitations, and safety issues of probiotic single-cell encapsulation technology for applications in food and beverages are analyzed. Finally, future directions and potential challenges to the widespread adoption of single-cell encapsulation of probiotics are highlighted.

Single-Cell Oral Delivery Platform for Enhanced Acid Resistance and Intestinal Adhesion

Oral delivery of cells, such as probiotics and vaccines, has proved to be inefficient since cells are generally damaged in an acidic stomach prior to arrival at the intestine to exert their health benefits. In addition, short retention in the intestine is another obstacle which affects inefficiency. To overcome these obstacles, a cell-in-shell structure was designed with pH-responsive and mucoadhesive properties. The pH-responsive shell consisting of three cationic layers of chitosan and three anionic layers of trans-cinnamic acid (t-CA) was made via layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly. t-CA layers are hydrophobic and impermeable to protons in acid, thus enhancing cell gastric resistance in the stomach, while chitosan layers endow strong interaction between the cell surface and the mucosal wall which facilitates cell mucoadhesion in the intestine. Two model cells, probiotic L. rhamnosus GG and dead Streptococcus iniae, which serve as inactivated whole-cell vaccine were chosen to test the design. Increased survival and retention during oral administration were observed for coated cells as compared with naked cells. Partial removal of the coating (20-60% removal) after acid treatment indicates that the coated vaccine can expose its surface immunogenic protein after passage through the stomach, thus facilitating vaccine immune stimulation in the intestine. As a smart oral delivery platform, this design can be extended to various macromolecules, thus providing a promising strategy to formulate oral macromolecules in the prevention and treatment of diseases at a cellular level.

Mitigation of Vibrio coralliilyticus-induced coral bleaching through bacterial dysbiosis prevention by Ruegeria profundi

Vibrio species are prevalent in ocean ecosystems, particularly Vibrio coralliilyticus, and pose a threat to corals and other marine organisms under global warming conditions. While microbiota manipulation is considered for coral disease management, understanding the role of commensal bacteria in stress resilience remains limited. Here, a single bacterial species (Ruegeria profundi) rather than a consortium of native was used to combat pathogenic V. coralliilyticus and protect corals from bleaching. R. profundi showed therapeutic activity in vivo, preventing a significant reduction in bacterial diversity in bleached corals. Notably, the structure of the bacterial community differed significantly among all the groups. In addition, compared with the bleached corals caused by V. coralliilyticus, the network analysis revealed that complex interactions and positive correlations in the bacterial community of the R. profundi protected non-bleached corals, indicating R. profundi's role in fostering synergistic associations. Many genera of bacteria significantly increased in abundance during V. coralliilyticus infection, including Vibrio, Alteromonas, Amphritea, and Nautella, contributing to the pathogenicity of the bacterial community. However, R. profundi effectively countered the proliferation of these genera, promoting potential probiotic Endozoicomonas and other taxa, while reducing the abundance of betaine lipids and the type VI section system of the bacterial community. These changes ultimately influenced the interactive relationships among symbionts and demonstrated that probiotic R. profundi intervention can modulate coral-associated bacterial community, alleviate pathogenic-induced dysbiosis, and preserve coral health. These findings elucidated the relationship between the behavior of the coral-associated bacterial community and the occurrence of pathological coral bleaching.IMPORTANCEChanges in the global climate and marine environment can influence coral host and pathogen repartition which refers to an increased likelihood of pathogen infection in hosts. The risk of Vibrio coralliilyticus-induced coral disease is significantly heightened, primarily due to its thermos-dependent expression of virulent and populations. This study investigates how coral-associated bacterial communities respond to bleaching induced by V. coralliilyticus. Our findings demonstrate that Ruegeria profundi exhibits clear evidence of defense against pathogenic bacterial infection, contributing to the maintenance of host health and symbiont homeostasis. This observation suggests that bacterial pathogens could cause dysbiosis in coral holobionts. Probiotic bacteria display an essential capability in restructuring and manipulating coral-associated bacterial communities. This restructuring effectively reduces bacterial community virulence and enhances the pathogenic resistance of holobionts. The study provides valuable insights into the correlation between the health status of corals and how coral-associated bacterial communities may respond to both pathogens and probiotics.

A systematic review of the beneficial effects of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics on ADHD

BACKGROUND

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may benefit from probiotics and prebiotics, but the effects are unclear. To determine whether probiotics and prebiotics affect children with ADHD, a systematic review was conducted.

METHODS

The present systematic review analyzed cohort studies and randomized controlled trials that examined whether prebiotics and probiotics are associated with ADHD. Seven randomized controlled trials and two cohort studies met our inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Research on Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) probiotic supplementation showed that children with ADHD had better emotional, physical, social, and school functioning, and a higher health-related quality of life compared to the placebo group. The studies also showed that Synbiotic 2000 reduces markers of intestinal and vascular inflammation in children with ADHD, in part through increasing SCFA levels.

CONCLUSION

The use of probiotics and prebiotics as adjuvants therapy in patients with ADHD is beneficial. Further studies with longer duration, including more participants and a variety of age groups, and using various evaluation techniques such as in vivo observation are required to examine the effects of prebiotics and probiotics on ADHD.

Study of lactobacillus plantarum coated with tremella polysaccharides to improve its intestinal adhesion

BACKGROUND

The adhesion of probiotics to the intestine is crucial to their probiotic function. Tremella polysaccharides (TPS) (with sodium casein) have shown the potential in previous studies to encapsulate probiotics and protect them in the simulated gastrointestinal tract. This paper further explored the effect of TPS (with sodium casein) on the adhesion of probiotics.

RESULTS

Lactobacillus plantarum was coated in different proportions in TPS and sodium casein and then freeze-drying. The rheological properties of the mixture of probiotics powder and mucin solution were determined by static and dynamic rheological analysis. Aqueous solutions of probiotics powder and mucin mixture exhibited pseudoplastic fluid rheological properties. The higher the proportion of TPS content, the higher the apparent viscosity and yield stress. The mixed bacterial powder and mucin fluid displayed certain thixotropy and obeyed the Herschel-Bulkley model. It indicated that TPS increased the bio-adhesive force of probiotics powder and mucin. When using TPS as the only carbon source, the adhesion of L. plantarum to Caco-2 cells increased by 228% compared to glucose in vitro. In addition, 12 proteins with adhesion function were detected in the whole-cell proteome of L. plantarum. Among them, 10 proteins with adhesion function were abundant when grown with TPS as a carbon source.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, TPS possess prebiotic properties and can promote the intestinal adhesion of L. plantarum. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Role of Synbiotics (Prebiotics and Probiotics) as Dietary Supplements in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Induced Health Complications

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder whose prevalence has become a worrying condition in recent decades. Chronic diabetes can result in serious health conditions such as impaired kidney function, stroke, blindness, and myocardial infarction. Despite a variety of currently available treatments, cases of diabetes and its complications are on the rise. This review article provides a comprehensive account of the ameliorative effect of prebiotics and probiotics individually or in combination i.e. synbiotics on health complications induced by Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Recent advances in the field underscore encouraging outcomes suggesting the consumption of synbiotics leads to favorable changes in the gut microbiota. These changes result in the production of bioactive metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (crucial for lowering blood sugar levels), reducing inflammation, preventing insulin resistance, and encouraging the release of glucagon-like peptide-1 in the host. Notably, novel strategies supplementing synbiotics to support gut microbiota are gaining attraction as pivotal interventions in mitigating T2DM-induced health complications. Thus, by nurturing a symbiotic relationship between prebiotics and probiotics i.e. synbiotics, these interventions hold promise in reshaping the microbial landscape of the gut thereby offering a multifaceted approach to managing T2DM and its associated morbidities. Supporting the potential of synbiotics underscores a paradigm shift toward holistic and targeted interventions in diabetes management, offering prospects for improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life for affected individuals. Nevertheless, more research needs to be done to better understand the single and multispecies pre/pro and synbiotics in the prevention and management of T2DM-induced health complications.

Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum In Vitro In Vivo

The genus Bifidobacterium has been widely used in functional foods for health promotion due to its beneficial effects on human health, especially in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). In this study, we characterize the anti-inflammatory potential of the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum G7, isolated from a healthy male adult. G7 secretion inhibited inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Moreover, oral administration of bacteria G7 alleviated the severity of colonic inflammation in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-treated colitis mice, which was evidenced by a decreased disease activity index (DAI) and enhanced structural integrity of the colon. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing result illustrated that the G7 alleviated DSS-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis, accompanied by the modulated bile acids and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels. Overall, our results demonstrated the potential anti-inflammatory effects of Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum G7 on both in vitro and in vivo models, which provided a solid foundation for further development of a novel anti-inflammatory probiotic.

Localization and symbiotic status of probiotics in the coral holobiont

Corals establish symbiotic relationships with microorganisms, especially endosymbiotic photosynthetic algae. Although other microbes have been commonly detected in coral tissues, their identity and beneficial functions for their host are unclear. Here, we confirm the beneficial outcomes of the inoculation of bacteria selected as probiotics and use fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to define their localization in the coral Pocillopora damicornis. Our results show the first evidence of the inherent presence of Halomonas sp. and Cobetia sp. in native coral tissues, even before their inoculation. Furthermore, the relative enrichment of these coral tissue-associated bacteria through their inoculation in corals correlates with health improvements, such as increases in photosynthetic potential, and productivity. Our study suggests the symbiotic status of Halomonas sp. and Cobetia sp. in corals by indicating their localization within coral gastrodermis and epidermis and correlating their increased relative abundance through active inoculation with beneficial outcomes for the holobiont. This knowledge is crucial to facilitate the screening and application of probiotics that may not be transient members of the coral microbiome.

IMPORTANCE

Despite the promising results indicating the beneficial outcomes associated with the application of probiotics in corals and some scarce knowledge regarding the identity of bacterial cells found within the coral tissue, the correlation between these two aspects is still missing. This gap limits our understanding of the actual diversity of coral-associated bacteria and whether these symbionts are beneficial. Some researchers, for example, have been suggesting that probiotic screening should only focus on the very few known tissue-associated bacteria, such as Endozoicomonas sp., assuming that the currently tested probiotics are not tissue-associated. Here, we provide specific FISH probes for Halomonas sp. and Cobetia sp., expand our knowledge of the identity of coral-associated bacteria and confirm the probiotic status of the tested probiotics. The presence of these beneficial microorganisms for corals (BMCs) inside host tissues and gastric cavities also supports the notion that direct interactions with the host may underpin their probiotic role. This is a new breakthrough; these results argue against the possibility that the positive effects of BMCs are due to factors that are not related to a direct symbiotic interaction, for example, that the host simply feeds on inoculated bacteria or that the bacteria change the water quality.

Draft genome sequence of Bacillus velezensis strain 3TSA-3, a potential probiotic for Pacific white shrimp Penaeus vannamei postlarvae isolated from commercial hatchery tanks

We report the draft genome of Bacillus velezensis strain 3TSA-3, isolated from Pacific white shrimp Penaeus vannamei postlarvae collected from a hatchery tank with high survival despite the presence of pathogenic Vibrio. The strain possesses genes encoding bacteriocins and lacks virulence factor genes, characteristics for a potential aquaculture probiotic.

The complete genome sequence of probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 9224 isolated from sour milk

We present the complete genome sequence of the probiotic strain Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 9224. The genome sequence provides a valuable resource for investigating the phylogenetic evolution of this lineage and conducting comparative genomics with other Lactobacillus strains and species.

Draft genome sequence of Pediococcus acidilactici 3G3 isolated from Philippine fermented pork

Pediococcus acidilactici is a well-studied fermentative bacterium reported to have potential probiotic properties. Here, we report the draft genome of P. acidilactici 3G3 previously isolated from burong babi, a Philippine fermented pork dish. The 3G3 draft genome has 1,886,498 bp, a GC content of 42.27%, and a completeness of 99.38%.

Co-administration of probiotic and vitamin D significantly improves cognitive function in schizophrenic patients: A double-blinded randomized controlled trial

AIM

Manipulation of the intestinal microbiome and supplying vitamin D can attenuate psychiatric symptoms in schizophrenic patients. The current study tried to evaluate the effects of probiotic/vitamin D supplementation on the cognitive function and disease severity of schizophrenic patients.

METHODS

In the present study, 70 patients (aged 18-65) with schizophrenia were recruited. Participants were randomly allocated to the placebo (n = 35) and intervention (probiotic supplements+400 IU vitamin D, n = 35) groups. Severity of disease and cognitive function (primary outcomes) were evaluated by Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) tests, respectively. Moreover, lipid profile, body mass index (BMI), gastrointestinal (GI) problems, serum C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were evaluated as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 69 patients completed the study. The MoCA score was increased by 1.96 units in the probiotic-containing supplement group compared to the placebo (p = 0.004). Also, the percentage of subjects with MoCA score ≥ 26 rose significantly in the intervention group (p = 0.031). Moreover, TC (p = 0.011), FBS (p = 0.009), and CRP (p < 0.001) significantly decreased in the supplement group compared to the placebo. Although the probiotic supplement reduced PANSS score by 2.82 units, the difference between the study groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.247).

CONCLUSION

Co-administration of probiotics and vitamin D has beneficial effects on the improvement of cognitive function in schizophrenic patients.

Lactococcus lactis HkyuLL 10 suppresses colorectal tumourigenesis and restores gut microbiota through its generated alpha-mannosidase

OBJECTIVE

Probiotic Lactococcus lactis is known to confer health benefits to humans. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of L. lactis in colorectal cancer (CRC).

DESIGN

L. lactis abundance was evaluated in patients with CRC (n=489) and healthy individuals (n=536). L. lactis was isolated from healthy human stools with verification by whole genome sequencing. The effect of L. lactis on CRC tumourigenesis was assessed in transgenic Apc Min/+ mice and carcinogen-induced CRC mice. Faecal microbiota was profiled by metagenomic sequencing. Candidate proteins were characterised by nano liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Biological function of L. lactis conditioned medium (HkyuLL 10-CM) and functional protein was studied in human CRC cells, patient-derived organoids and xenograft mice.

RESULTS

Faecal L. lactis was depleted in patients with CRC. A new L. lactis strain was isolated from human stools and nomenclated as HkyuLL 10. HkyuLL 10 supplementation suppressed CRC tumourigenesis in Apc Min/+ mice, and this tumour-suppressing effect was confirmed in mice with carcinogen-induced CRC. Microbiota profiling revealed probiotic enrichment including Lactobacillus johnsonii in HkyuLL 10-treated mice. HkyuLL 10-CM significantly abrogated the growth of human CRC cells and patient-derived organoids. Such protective effect was attributed to HkyuLL 10-secreted proteins, and we identified that α-mannosidase was the functional protein. The antitumourigenic effect of α-mannosidase was demonstrated in human CRC cells and organoids, and its supplementation significantly reduced tumour growth in xenograft mice.

CONCLUSION

HkyuLL 10 suppresses CRC tumourigenesis in mice through restoring gut microbiota and secreting functional protein α-mannosidase. HkyuLL 10 administration may serve as a prophylactic measure against CRC.

Milk and Lacticaseibacillus casei BL23 effects on intestinal responses in a murine model of colitis

Probiotic-containing fermented dairy foods have the potential to benefit human health, but the importance of the dairy matrix for efficacy remains unclear. We investigated the capacity of Lacticaseibacillus casei BL23 in phosphate-buffered saline (BL23-PBS), BL23-fermented milk (BL23-milk), and milk to modify intestinal and behavioral responses in a Dextran Sodium Sulfate (DSS, 3% w/v) mouse model of colitis. Significant sex-dependent differences were found such that female mice exhibited more severe colitis, greater weight loss, and higher mortality rates. Sex differences were also found for ion transport ex vivo, colonic cytokine and tight junction gene expression, and fecal microbiota composition. Measurements of milk and BL23 effects showed BL23-PBS consumption improved weight recovery in females, while milk resulted in better body weight recovery in males. Occludin and Claudin-2 gene transcript levels indicated barrier function was impaired in males, but BL23-milk was still found to improve colonic ion transport in those mice. Pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory gene expression levels were increased in both male and female mice fed BL23, and to a more variable extent, milk, compared to controls. The female mouse fecal microbiota contained high proportions of Akkermansia (average of 18.1%) at baseline, and females exhibited more changes in gut microbiota composition following BL23 and milk intake. Male fecal microbiota harbored significantly more Parasutterella and less Blautia and Roseburia after DSS treatment, independent of BL23 or milk consumption. These findings show the complex interplay between dietary components and sex-dependent responses in mitigating inflammation in the digestive tract.

Do Herbal Supplements and Probiotics Complement Antibiotics and Diet in the Management of SIBO? A Randomized Clinical Trial

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) arises from dysbiosis in the small intestine, manifesting with abdominal symptoms. This study aims to assess the efficacy of combined antibiotic therapy, herbal supplements, probiotics, and dietary modifications in SIBO management. A total of 179 SIBO-diagnosed patients underwent clinical evaluation and breath testing. Patients were categorized into hydrogen (H2-SIBO) and methane (CH4-SIBO) groups. The control group received standard antibiotic therapy and a low-FODMAP diet, while the intervention group received additional herbal antibiotics, probiotics, and prebiotics. After treatment, both groups exhibited reduced gas levels, particularly in CH4-SIBO. Clinical remission rates were higher in the intervention group, especially in CH4-SIBO cases. Logistic regression analysis showed gas concentrations at diagnosis as significant predictors of treatment success. In conclusion, adjunctive herbal supplements and probiotics did not significantly impact gas levels, but showed potential for clinical improvement, especially in CH4-SIBO.

Evaluation of Neuro-Hormonal Dynamics after the Administration of Probiotic Microbial Strains in a Murine Model of Hyperthyroidism

The microbiota-gut-brain axis has received increasing attention in recent years through its bidirectional communication system, governed by the ability of gut microorganisms to generate and regulate a wide range of neurotransmitters in the host body. In this research, we delve into the intricate area of microbial endocrinology by exploring the dynamic oscillations in neurotransmitter levels within plasma and brain samples. Our experimental model involved inducing hyperthyroidism in mice after a "probiotic load" timeframe using two strains of probiotics (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Saccharomyces boulardii, and their combination). These probiotic interventions continued throughout the experiment and were intended to uncover potential modulatory effects on neurotransmitter levels and discern if certain probiotic strains exhibit any protection from hyperthyroidism. Moreover, we aimed to outline the eventual connections between the gut microbiota and the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis. As our study reveals, there are significant fluctuations in crucial neurotransmitters within the hyperthyroidism model, related to the specific probiotic strain or combination. These findings could support future therapeutic approaches, help healthcare professionals choose between different probiotic therapies, and also allow us proceed with caution when administering such treatments, depending on the health status of hyperthyroid patients.

Probiotics for inflammatory bowel disease: Is there sufficient evidence?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to chronic inflammatory disorders of the gut. Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) are two subtypes of IBD. Evidence suggests that the intestinal microbiota plays a role in the pathogenesis of IBD, so probiotics have garnered a lot of interest as a potential treatment or prevention for IBD. However, clinical evidence of the efficacy of probiotics is still debatable. We performed a literature review. An advanced search considered clinical studies on probiotic for IBD from inception to 2023 in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. In the treatment of UC with probiotics, only Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 for maintenance treatment of UC in remission, and Bifidobacterium and VSL#3 for induction of remission in patients with mild to moderately active UC have shown strong evidence. Currently, there are no definitive conclusions regarding the effectiveness of probiotics in CD. The mechanism of probiotic treatment for IBD may be related to reducing oxidative stress, repairing the intestinal barrier, regulating intestinal flora balance, and modulating intestinal immune response. Differences in the benefits of probiotics between CD and UC may be attributable to the different lesion extent and immune-mediated pathophysiology. More robust randomized clinical trials are required to validate the efficacy and safety of diverse probiotic strains in IBD.

The Power of Psychobiotics in Depression: A Modern Approach through the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis: A Literature Review

The microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis is a complex communication network linking the gut, microbiota, and brain, influencing various aspects of health and disease. Dysbiosis, a disturbance in the gut microbiome equilibrium, can significantly impact the MGB axis, leading to alterations in microbial composition and function. Emerging evidence highlights the connection between microbiota alterations and neurological and psychiatric disorders, including depression. This review explores the potential of psychobiotics in managing depressive disorders, emphasizing their role in restoring microbial balance and influencing the MGB axis. Psychobiotics exhibit positive effects on the intestinal barrier, immune response, cortisol levels, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Studies suggest that probiotics may serve as an adjunct therapy for depression, especially in treatment-resistant cases. This review discusses key findings from studies on psychobiotics interventions, emphasizing their impact on the gut-brain axis and mental health. The increasing acceptance of the expanded concept of the MGB axis underscores the importance of microorganisms in mental well-being. As our understanding of the microbiome's role in health and disease grows, probiotics emerge as promising agents for addressing mental health issues, providing new avenues for therapeutic interventions in depressive disorders.

Oral nitrate-reducing bacteria as potential probiotics for blood pressure homeostasis

Hypertension is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and poses a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and chronic kidney disease. Research has shown that nitric oxide (NO) is a vasodilator that regulates vascular tension and the decrease of NO bioactivity is considered one of the potential pathogenesis of essential hypertension. The L-arginine-nitric oxide synthase (NOS) pathway is the main source of endogenous NO production. However, with aging or the onset of diseases, the function of the NOS system becomes impaired, leading to insufficient NO production. The nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway allows for the generation of biologically active NO independent of the NOS system, by utilizing endogenous or dietary inorganic nitrate and nitrite through a series of reduction cycles. The oral cavity serves as an important interface between the body and the environment, and dysbiosis or disruption of the oral microbiota has negative effects on blood pressure regulation. In this review, we explore the role of oral microbiota in maintaining blood pressure homeostasis, particularly the connection between nitrate-reducing bacteria and the bioavailability of NO in the bloodstream and blood pressure changes. This review aims to elucidate the potential mechanisms by which oral nitrate-reducing bacteria contribute to blood pressure homeostasis and to highlight the use of oral nitrate-reducing bacteria as probiotics for oral microbiota intervention to prevent hypertension.

Whole-genome analysis suggesting probiotic potential and safety properties of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSPZPP1, a promising LAB strain isolated from traditional fermented sausages of the Basilicata region (Southern Italy)

Introduction

Many lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains are currently gaining attention in the food industry and various biological applications because of their harmless and functional properties. Given the growing consumer demand for safe food, further research into potential probiotic bacteria is beneficial. Therefore, we aimed to characterize Pediococcus pentosaceus DSPZPP1, a LAB strain isolated from traditional fermented sausages from the Basilicata region of Southern Italy.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed the whole genome of the P. pentosaceus DSPZPP1 strain and performed in silico characterization to evaluate its applicability for probiotics and use in the food industry.

Results and Discussion

The whole-genome assembly and functional annotations revealed many interesting characteristics of the DSPZPP1 strain. Sequencing raw reads were assembled into a draft genome of size 1,891,398 bp, with a G + C content of 37.3%. Functional annotation identified 1930 protein-encoding genes and 58 RNAs including tRNA, tmRNA, and 16S, 23S, and 5S rRNAs. The analysis shows the presence of genes that encode water-soluble B-group vitamins such as biotin, folate, coenzyme A, and riboflavin. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that the DSPZPP1 strain can synthesize class II bacteriocin, penocin A, adding importance to the food industry for bio-enriched food. The DSPZPP1 genome does not show the presence of plasmids, and no genes associated with antimicrobial resistance and virulence were found. In addition, two intact bacteriophages were identified. Importantly, the lowest probability value in pathogenicity analysis indicates that this strain is non-pathogenic to humans. 16 s rRNA-based phylogenetic analysis and comparative analysis based on ANI and Tetra reveal that the DSPZPP1 strain shares the closest evolutionary relationship with P. pentosaceus DSM 20336 and other Pediococcus strains. Analysis of carbohydrate active enzymes (CAZymes) identified glycosyl transferases (GT) as a main class of enzymes followed by glycoside hydrolases (GH). Our study shows several interesting characteristics of the isolated DSPZPP1 strain from fermented Italian sausages, suggesting its potential use as a promising probiotic candidate and making it more appropriate for selection as a future additive in biopreservation.

Probiotics-A Promising Novel Therapeutic Approach in the Management of Chronic Liver Diseases

An increased incidence of liver diseases has been observed in recent years and is associated with gut dysbiosis, which causes bacterial infection, intestinal permeability, and further leads to disease-related complications. Probiotics, active microbial strains, are gaining more clinical importance due to their beneficial effect in the management of many diseases, including liver diseases. Clinical scenarios show strong evidence that probiotics have efficacy in treating liver diseases due to their ability to improve epithelial barrier function, prevent bacterial translocation, and boost the immune system. Moreover, probiotics survive both bile and gastric acid to reach the gut and exert their health benefit. Evidence shows that probiotics are a promising approach to prevent several complications in clinical practice. Herein, we discuss the recent evidence, challenges, and appropriate use of probiotics in managing advanced liver diseases, which may have an impact on future therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, the superior effect of strain-specific probiotics and their efficacy and safety in managing liver diseases are discussed.

Sleep deprivation-induced anxiety-like behaviors are associated with alterations in the gut microbiota and metabolites

The present study aimed to characterize the gut microbiota and serum metabolome changes associated with sleep deprivation (SD) as well as to explore the potential benefits of multi-probiotic supplementation in alleviating SD-related mental health disorders. Rats were subjected to 7 days of SD, followed by 14 days of multi-probiotics or saline administration. Open-field tests were conducted at baseline, end of SD (day 7), and after 14 days of saline or multi-probiotic gavage (day 21). Metagenomic sequencing was conducted on fecal samples, and serum metabolites were measured by untargeted liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry. At day 7, anxiety-like behaviors, including significant decreases in total movement distance (P = 0.0002) and staying time in the central zone (P = 0.021), were observed. In addition, increased levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS; P = 0.028) and decreased levels of uridine (P = 0.018) and tryptophan (P = 0.01) were detected in rats after 7 days of SD. After SD, the richness of the gut bacterial community increased, and the levels of Akkermansia muciniphila, Muribaculum intestinale, and Bacteroides caecimuris decreased. The changes in the host metabolism and gut microbiota composition were strongly associated with the anxiety-like behaviors caused by SD. In addition, multi-probiotic supplementation for 14 days modestly improved the anxiety-like behaviors in SD rats but significantly reduced the serum level of LPS (P = 0.045). In conclusion, SD induces changes in the gut microbiota and serum metabolites, which may contribute to the development of chronic inflammatory responses and affect the gut-brain axis, causing anxiety-like behaviors. Probiotic supplementation significantly reduces serum LPS, which may alleviate the influence of chronic inflammation.

IMPORTANCE

The disturbance in the gut microbiome and serum metabolome induced by SD may be involved in anxiety-like behaviors. Probiotic supplementation decreases serum levels of LPS, but this reduction may be insufficient for alleviating SD-induced anxiety-like behaviors.

Heterogeneous lineage-specific arginine deiminase expression within dental microbiome species

Arginine catabolism by the bacterial arginine deiminase system (ADS) has anticariogenic properties through the production of ammonia, which modulates the pH of the oral environment. Given the potential protective capacity of the ADS pathway, the exploitation of ADS-competent oral microbes through pre- or probiotic applications is a promising therapeutic target to prevent tooth decay. To date, most investigations of the ADS in the oral cavity and its relation to caries have focused on indirect measures of activity or on specific bacterial groups, yet the pervasiveness and rate of expression of the ADS operon in diverse mixed microbial communities in oral health and disease remain an open question. Here, we use a multivariate approach, combining ultra-deep metatranscriptomic sequencing with paired metataxonomic and in vitro citrulline quantification to characterize the microbial community and ADS operon expression in healthy and late-stage cavitated teeth. While ADS activity is higher in healthy teeth, we identify multiple bacterial lineages with upregulated ADS activity on cavitated teeth that are distinct from those found on healthy teeth using both reference-based mapping and de novo assembly methods. Our dual metataxonomic and metatranscriptomic approach demonstrates the importance of species abundance for gene expression data interpretation and that patterns of differential expression can be skewed by low-abundance groups. Finally, we identify several potential candidate probiotic bacterial lineages within species that may be useful therapeutic targets for the prevention of tooth decay and propose that the development of a strain-specific, mixed-microbial probiotic may be a beneficial approach given the heterogeneity of taxa identified here across health groups.

IMPORTANCE

Tooth decay is the most common preventable chronic disease, affecting more than two billion people globally. The development of caries on teeth is primarily a consequence of acid production by cariogenic bacteria that inhabit the plaque microbiome. Other bacterial strains in the oral cavity may suppress or prevent tooth decay by producing ammonia as a byproduct of the arginine deiminase metabolic pathway, increasing the pH of the plaque biofilm. While the benefits of arginine metabolism on oral health have been extensively documented in specific bacterial groups, the prevalence and consistency of arginine deiminase system (ADS) activity among oral bacteria in a community context remain an open question. In the current study, we use a multi-omics approach to document the pervasiveness of the expression of the ADS operon in both health and disease to better understand the conditions in which ADS activity may prevent tooth decay.

Recent progresses in gut microbiome mediates obstructive sleep apnea-induced cardiovascular diseases

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a multifactorial sleep disorder with a high prevalence in the general population. OSA is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), particularly hypertension, and is linked to worse outcomes. Although the correlation between OSA and CVDs is firmly established, the mechanisms are poorly understood. Continuous positive airway pressure is primary treatment for OSA reducing cardiovascular risk effectively, while is limited by inadequate compliance. Moreover, alternative treatments for cardiovascular complications in OSA are currently not available. Recently, there has been considerable attention on the significant correlation between gut microbiome and pathophysiological changes in OSA. Furthermore, gut microbiome has a significant impact on the cardiovascular complications that arise from OSA. Nevertheless, a detailed understanding of this association is lacking. This review examines recent advancements to clarify the link between the gut microbiome, OSA, and OSA-related CVDs, with a specific focus on hypertension, and also explores potential health advantages of adjuvant therapy that targets the gut microbiome in OSA.

Anti-inflammatory effects of bay laurel (Laurus nobilis L.) towards the gut microbiome in dextran sodium sulfate induced colitis animal models

Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis L.) contains active antioxidative phenolic components that are beneficial to human health. However, none was examined and reported utilizing health effects related to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) mainly ulcerative colitis (UC) in correlation to gut microbiota (GM). Thus, the current study aimed to investigate the impacts of bay leaves on UC albino rats targeting on the GM composition and their metabolites production (i.e., short-chain fatty acids; SCFAs) for improving the gut barrier functions. UC models were induced by supplementing 5% DSS into their drinking water. The models were then divided randomly for the diet with 1%, 2%, and 3% of bay leaves, as well as two control studies (positive and negative). Colon-to-body weight ratio was used as an indicator for the presence of edema tissue. From the collected fecal samples at 0, 24 h, and final day, the population changes of gut microbiota (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria, Clostridium, and sulfate-reducing bacteria) and SCFAs production were evaluated using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and gas-liquid chromatography (GC). The colon-to-body weight ratio of the rat models consuming 2% and 3% bay leaves was found to be significantly lower with better recovery of colonic function. Models consuming 3% bay leaves showed the best treatment effects on GM compositions; promoting the growth of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus in addition to producing high butyric acid levels. Meanwhile, the number of Clostridium and SRB was significantly reduced. Conclusively, consuming bay leaves brought significant colon health benefits other than stimulating appetite for a better taste.

Microbiome modulators for atopic eczema: a systematic review of experimental and investigational therapeutics

INTRODUCTION

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory cutaneous disease that arises due to dysregulation of the Th2 immune response, impaired skin barrier integrity, and dysbiosis of the skin and gut microbiota. An abundance of Staphylococcus aureus biofilms in AD lesions increases the Th2 immune response, and gut bacteria release breakdown products such as Short Chain Fatty Acids that regulate the systemic immune response.

AREAS COVERED

We aim to evaluate therapies that modulate the microbiome in humans and discuss the clinical implications of these treatments. We performed a review of the literature in which 2,673 records were screened, and describe the findings of 108 studies that were included after full-text review. All included studies discussed the effects of therapies on the human microbiome and AD severity. Oral probiotics, topical probiotics, biologics, and investigational therapies were included in our analysis.

EXPERT OPINION

Oral probiotics demonstrate mixed efficacy at relieving AD symptoms. Topical probiotics reduce S. aureus abundance in AD lesional skin, yet for moderate-severe disease, these therapies may not reduce AD severity scores to the standard of biologics. Dupilumab and tralokinumab target key inflammatory pathways in AD and modulate the skin microbiome, further improving disease severity.

Biotics: An emerging food supplement for health improvement in the era of immune modulation

The involvement of the commensal microbiota in immune function is a multifold process. Biotics, such as probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and paraprobiotics, have been subjected to animal and human trials demonstrating the association between gut microbes and immunity biomarkers leading to improvement in overall health. In recent years, studies on human microbiome interaction have established the multifarious role of biotics in maintaining overall health. The consumption of biotics has been extensively reported to help in maintaining microbial diversity, enhancing gut-associated mucosal immune homeostasis, and providing protection against a wide range of lifestyle disorders. However, the establishment of biotics as an alternative therapy for a range of health conditions is yet to be ascertained. Despite the fact that scientific literature has demonstrated the correlation between biotics and immune modulation, most in vivo and in vitro reports are inconclusive on the dosage required. This review provides valuable insights into the immunomodulatory effects of biotics consumption based on evidence obtained from animal models and clinical trials. Furthermore, we highlight the optimal dosages of biotics that have been reported to deliver maximum health benefits. By identifying critical research gaps, we have suggested a roadmap for future investigations to advance our understanding of the intricate crosstalk between biotics and immune homeostasis.

Clostridium butyricum Bacteremia Associated with Probiotic Use, Japan

Clostridium butyricum, a probiotic commonly prescribed in Asia, most notably as MIYA-BM (Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.; https://www.miyarisan.com), occasionally leads to bacteremia. The prevalence and characteristics of C. butyricum bacteremia and its bacteriologic and genetic underpinnings remain unknown. We retrospectively investigated patients admitted to Osaka University Hospital during September 2011-February 2023. Whole-genome sequencing revealed 5 (0.08%) cases of C. butyricum bacteremia among 6,576 case-patients who had blood cultures positive for any bacteria. Four patients consumed MIYA-BM, and 1 patient consumed a different C. butyricum-containing probiotic. Most patients had compromised immune systems, and common symptoms included fever and abdominal distress. One patient died of nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia. Sequencing results confirmed that all identified C. butyricum bacteremia strains were probiotic derivatives. Our findings underscore the risk for bacteremia resulting from probiotic use, especially in hospitalized patients, necessitating judicious prescription practices.

Alterations in microbiota of patients with COVID-19: implications for therapeutic interventions

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) recently caused a global pandemic, resulting in more than 702 million people being infected and over 6.9 million deaths. Patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may suffer from diarrhea, sleep disorders, depression, and even cognitive impairment, which is associated with long COVID during recovery. However, there remains no consensus on effective treatment methods. Studies have found that patients with COVID-19 have alterations in microbiota and their metabolites, particularly in the gut, which may be involved in the regulation of immune responses. Consumption of probiotics may alleviate the discomfort caused by inflammation and oxidative stress. However, the pathophysiological process underlying the alleviation of COVID-19-related symptoms and complications by targeting the microbiota remains unclear. In the current study, we summarize the latest research and evidence on the COVID-19 pandemic, together with symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 and vaccine use, with a focus on the relationship between microbiota alterations and COVID-19-related symptoms and vaccine use. This work provides evidence that probiotic-based interventions may improve COVID-19 symptoms by regulating gut microbiota and systemic immunity. Probiotics may also be used as adjuvants to improve vaccine efficacy.

Effects of fermentation with different probiotics on the quality, isoflavone content, and flavor of okara beverages

The present study aimed to prepare and evaluate a new probiotic functional beverage, using single-probiotic and compound probiotic fermentation on okara. Four different forms of fermentation microorganisms used were Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus S24 (Lr), Lacticaseibacillus paracasei 6244 (Lp), Lactobacillus acidophilus 11,073 (La), and mixed fermentation (Lr + Lp + La). The physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, flavor change, and storage period of fermented okara beverages with probiotics were investigated. The results showed that different fermentation schemes could significantly improve the physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, and sensory quality of the okara beverages. The number of viable bacteria in the Lp group (3.53 × 108 CFU/mL), isoflavone content (0.514 μg/mL) were the highest; total phenol and flavonoid content were 3.32 and 5.68 times higher than in the CK group, respectively. DPPH and ABTS+ free radical scavenging rates were increased by 11.32% and 20%, respectively (p < .05). Through SPME/GC-MS analysis, 44 volatile compounds were identified in the Lr + Lp + La groups, mainly as a result of changes in alcohols and aldehydes produced by fermentation metabolism. It enhances the floral and fruity aroma of the okara beverage. All probiotic-fermented okara beverages can be stored at 4°C for 15 days, with probiotic activity greater than 107 CFU/mL. This study can obtain a probiotic okara beverage rich in soybean isoflavones and with good flavor. Overall, okara can be used to develop functional beverages containing probiotics and contribute to a zero-waste approach in the food industry.

Integrating microbiome science and evolutionary medicine into animal health and conservation

Microbiome science has provided groundbreaking insights into human and animal health. Similarly, evolutionary medicine - the incorporation of eco-evolutionary concepts into primarily human medical theory and practice - is increasingly recognised for its novel perspectives on modern diseases. Studies of host-microbe relationships have been expanded beyond humans to include a wide range of animal taxa, adding new facets to our understanding of animal ecology, evolution, behaviour, and health. In this review, we propose that a broader application of evolutionary medicine, combined with microbiome science, can provide valuable and innovative perspectives on animal care and conservation. First, we draw on classic ecological principles, such as alternative stable states, to propose an eco-evolutionary framework for understanding variation in animal microbiomes and their role in animal health and wellbeing. With a focus on mammalian gut microbiomes, we apply this framework to populations of animals under human care, with particular relevance to the many animal species that suffer diseases linked to gut microbial dysfunction (e.g. gut distress and infection, autoimmune disorders, obesity). We discuss diet and microbial landscapes (i.e. the microbes in the animal's external environment), as two factors that are (i) proposed to represent evolutionary mismatches for captive animals, (ii) linked to gut microbiome structure and function, and (iii) potentially best understood from an evolutionary medicine perspective. Keeping within our evolutionary framework, we highlight the potential benefits - and pitfalls - of modern microbial therapies, such as pre- and probiotics, faecal microbiota transplants, and microbial rewilding. We discuss the limited, yet growing, empirical evidence for the use of microbial therapies to modulate animal gut microbiomes beneficially. Interspersed throughout, we propose 12 actionable steps, grounded in evolutionary medicine, that can be applied to practical animal care and management. We encourage that these actionable steps be paired with integration of eco-evolutionary perspectives into our definitions of appropriate animal care standards. The evolutionary perspectives proposed herein may be best appreciated when applied to the broad diversity of species under human care, rather than when solely focused on humans. We urge animal care professionals, veterinarians, nutritionists, scientists, and others to collaborate on these efforts, allowing for simultaneous care of animal patients and the generation of valuable empirical data.

Effects of direct-fed microbial supplement on ruminal and plasma metabolome of early-lactation dairy cows: Untargeted metabolomics approach

We examined the effects of 2 multispecies direct-fed microbial (DFM) supplements on ruminal and plasma metabolome of early-lactation dairy cows using a high-coverage untargeted metabolomics approach. A total of 45 multiparous Holstein cows (41 ± 7 DIM) were enrolled for the 14-d pre-experimental and 91-d experimental period and were a subset from a lactation performance study, which used 114 cows. Cows were blocked using pre-experimental energy-corrected milk yield and randomly assigned within each block to 1 of 3 treatments: (1) corn silage-based diet with no DFM supplement (control; CON), (2) basal diet top-dressed with a mixture of Lactobacillus animalis and Propionibacterium freudenreichii at 3 × 109 cfu/d (PRO-A), or (3) basal diet top-dressed with a mixture of L. animalis, P. freudenreichii, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus licheniformis at 11.8 × 109 cfu/d (PRO-B). The basal diet was fed ad libitum daily as a TMR at 0600 and 1200 h for a duration of 91 d. Rumen fluid and blood samples were taken on d -3, 28, 49, 70, and 91 and immediately stored at -80°C. Before analysis, ruminal and plasma samples from d 28, 49, 70, and 91 were composited. An in-depth, untargeted metabolome profile of the composite rumen and plasma samples and the d -3 samples was developed by using a chemical isotope labeling/liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based technique. Differentially abundant metabolites (taking into account fold change [FC] values and false discovery rates [FDR]) were identified with a volcano plot. In the rumen, compared with the CON diet, supplemental PRO-A increased (FC ≥1.2; FDR ≤0.05) the relative concentrations of 9 metabolites, including 2-hydroxy-2,4-pentadienoic acid, glutaric acid, quinolinic acid, and shikimic acid, and PRO-B increased relative concentrations of 16 metabolites, including 2-hydroxy-2,4-pentadienoic acid, glutaric acid, 16-hydroxypalmitic acid, and 2 propionate precursors (succinic and methylsuccinic acids). Relative to PRO-A, supplemental PRO-B increased (FC ≥1.2; FDR ≤0.05) relative rumen concentrations of 3 metabolites, 16-hydroxypalmitic acid, indole-3-carboxylic acid, and 5-aminopentanoic acid, but reduced relative rumen concentrations of 13 metabolites, including carnitine, threonic acid, and shikimic acid. Compared with the CON diet, relative concentrations of 13 plasma metabolites, including myxochelin A and glyceraldehyde, were increased (FC ≥1.2; FDR ≤0.05) by PRO-A supplementation, whereas those of 9 plasma metabolites, including 4-(2-aminophenyl)-2,4-dioxobutanoic acid, N-acetylornithine, and S-norlaudanosolin, were reduced (FC ≤0.83; FDR ≤0.05). Supplemental PRO-B increased (FC ≥1.2; FDR ≤0.05) relative concentrations of 9 plasma metabolites, including trans-o-hydroxybenzylidenepyruvic acid and 3-methylsalicylaldehyde, and reduced relative concentrations of 4 plasma metabolites, including β-ethynylserine and kynurenine. Pathway analysis of the differentially abundant metabolites in both rumen and plasma revealed that these metabolites are involved in AA and fatty acid metabolism and have antimicrobial and immune-stimulating properties. The results of this study demonstrated that dietary supplementation with either PRO-A or PRO-B altered the plasma and ruminal metabolome. Notably, ruminal and plasma metabolites involved in the metabolism of AA and fatty acids and those with immunomodulatory properties were altered by either or both of the 2 microbial additives.

Harnessing Vaginal Probiotics for Enhanced Management of Uterine Disease and Reproductive Performance in Dairy Cows: A Conceptual Review

Uterine disease in cattle impairs reproductive performance and profitability and increases antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance. Thus, probiotics offer a promising alternative therapy. This review presents conceptual findings on the efficacy of probiotics in managing uterine diseases and fertility in cows. Probiotics containing Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. individually or as composite formulations are known to improve fertility. Strategic intravaginal administration of these formulations would likely enhance uterine immunity, particularly during the postpartum period. While current findings on the benefits to uterine health are encouraging, there is still significant knowledge missing, including a lack of empirical information from large-scale field trials. This review underscores the need for evidence-based guidelines for probiotics, such as genomic selection of formulations, targeted delivery, or potential synergy with other interventions. Future research should address these gaps to maximize the potential of probiotics in managing uterine diseases and enhancing the reproductive health of dairy cattle.

Identification and biological characteristics of Enterococcus casseliflavus TN-47 isolated from Monochamus alternatus

With the widespread use of antibiotics, the incidence of antibiotic resistance in microorganisms has increased. Monochamus alternatus is a trunk borer of pine trees. This study aimed to investigate the in vitro antimicrobial and biological characteristics of Enterococcus casseliflavus TN-47 (PP411196), isolated from the gastrointestinal tract of M. alternatus in Jilin Province, PR China. Among 13 isolates obtained from the insects, five were preliminarily screened for antimicrobial activity. E. casseliflavus TN-47, which exhibited the strongest antimicrobial activity, was identified. E. casseliflavus TN-47 possessed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus USA300 and Salmonella enterica serovar Pullorum ATCC 19945. Furthermore, E. casseliflavus TN-47 was sensitive to tetracyclines, penicillins (ampicillin, carbenicillin, and piperacillin), quinolones and nitrofuran antibiotics, and resistant to certain beta-lactam antibiotics (oxacillin, cefradine and cephalexin), macrolide antibiotics, sulfonamides and aminoglycosides. E. casseliflavus TN-47 could tolerate low pH and pepsin-rich conditions in the stomach and grow in the presence of bile acids. E. casseliflavus TN-47 retained its strong auto-aggregating ability and hydrophobicity. This strain did not exhibit any haemolytic activity. These results indicate that E. casseliflavus TN-47 has potential as a probiotic. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the future applications of E. casseliflavus TN-47 and its secondary metabolites in animal nutrition and feed.

Enhancing the antioxidant capacity and quality attributes of fermented goat milk through the synergistic action of Limosilactobacillus fermentum WXZ 2-1 with a starter culture

This study evaluated 75 strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from traditional dairy products in western China for their probiotic properties. Among them, Limosilactobacillus fermentum WXZ 2-1, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TXZ 2-35, Companilactobacillus crustorum QHS 9, and Companilactobacillus crustorum QHS 10 demonstrated potential probiotic characteristics. The antioxidant capacity of these 4 strains was assessed, revealing that L. fermentum WXZ 2-1 exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, when cocultured with Streptococcus salivarius ssp. thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus, L. fermentum WXZ 2-1 demonstrated a synergistic effect in growth medium and goat milk. To explore its effect on goat milk fermentation, different amounts of L. fermentum WXZ 2-1 were added to goat milk, and its physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, flavor substances, and metabolomics were analyzed. The study found that the incorporation of L. fermentum WXZ 2-1 in goat milk fermentation significantly improved the texture characteristics, antioxidant capacity, and flavor of fermented goat milk. These findings highlight the potential of L. fermentum WXZ 2-1 as a valuable probiotic strain for enhancing the functionality and desirability of fermented goat milk, contributing to the development of novel functional foods with improved health benefits and enhanced quality attributes.

Evaluation of probiotics in the treatment of hypothyroidism in early pregnancy combined with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between hypothyroidism in early pregnancy and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and the effect of probiotics. Patients with hypothyroidism in early pregnancy and normal pregnant women during the same period were included in the methane-hydrogen breath test to compare the incidence of SIBO, smoothed curve fit, and differences in clinical symptoms. For those who combined with SIBO, the rate of clinical symptom conversion, thyroid hormones, and changes in associated inflammatory indexes were compared after 21 days of treatment with probiotics on top of conventional levothyroxine sodium tablets. The results are as follows: (1) The incidence of combined SIBO in patients with hypothyroidism in pregnancy was 56.0%, significantly higher than the 28.0% of normal pregnant women during the same period. (2) The highest value of hydrogen plus methane gas in 90 min in pregnancy hypothyroid patients showed a significant negative correlation with FT4 (p < .001, SD = 0.169). (3) Abdominal distension symptoms were significantly increased in both groups after combined SIBO (p = .036, p = .025), and the conversion rate after treatment was 69.2% and 75.0%, respectively. (4) In hypothyroidism, pregnancy combined with SIBO, TSH, and CRP was higher before treatment (p = .001, p = .012) and decreased significantly after treatment (p = .001, p = .008). Hypothyroidism in early pregnancy is associated with SIBO, and probiotic treatment is significantly effective.

Safety assessment of a proprietary fermented soybean solution, Symbiota®, as an ingredient for use in foods and dietary supplements: Non-clinical studies and a randomized trial

A safety evaluation was performed of Symbiota®, which is made by a proprietary anaerobic fermentation process of soybean with multistrains of probiotics and a yeast. The battery of genotoxicity studies showed that Symbiota® has no genotoxic effects. Safety and tolerability were further assessed by acute or repeated dose 28- and 90-day rodent studies, and no alterations in clinical observations, ophthalmological examination, blood chemistry, urinalysis, or hematology were observed between the control group and the different dosing groups (1.5, 5, and 15 mL/kg/day). There were no adverse effects on specific tissues or organs in terms of weight and histopathology. Importantly, the Symbiota® treatment did not perturb hormones and other endocrine-related endpoints. Of note, the No-Observed-Adverse-Effect-Level was determined to be 15 mL/kg/day in rats. Moreover, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was recently conducted with healthy volunteers who consumed 8 mL/day of placebo or Symbiota® for 8 weeks. Only mild adverse events were reported in both groups, and the blood chemistry and blood cell profiles were also similar between the two groups. In summary, this study concluded that the oral consumption of Symbiota® at 8 mL/day by the general population does not pose any human health concerns.

Engineered Probiotics for the Management of Congenital Metabolic Diseases: A Systematic Review

Engineered probiotics (EPs) can be used to treat/manage chronic and congenital diseases. However, to the best of our knowledge, no systematic review has evaluated the effects of EPs on congenital metabolic disorders in murine models and human subjects. Thus, the present study systematically reviewed interventional studies that assessed the effects of EPs on congenital metabolic disorders. PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched up to February 2023 to retrieve related publications. Seventy-six articles were obtained in the primary step. After screening the titles/abstracts based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 11 papers were included. Finally, only seven articles were included after performing full-text evaluation. The included articles evaluated the effects of EPs on managing phenylketonuria (PKU, n=4) and hyperammonemia (n=3). Moreover, these studies examined mice and/or rats (n=6), monkeys (n=1), and humans (n=2). Studies on EPs and hyperammonemia revealed that some wild strains such as Lactobacillus plantarum have an innate ammonia-hyper-consuming potential; thus, there was no need to manipulate them. However, manipulation is needed to obtain a phenylalanine-metabolizing strain. In conclusion, EPs can be used to manage or treat congenital metabolic diseases including PKU.

Fabrication of dry S/O/W microcapsule and its probiotic protection against different stresses

BACKGROUND

Encapsulation is commonly used to protect probiotics against harsh stresses. Thus, the fabrication of microcapsules with special structure is critical. In this work, microcapsules with the structure of S/O/W (solid-in-oil-in-water) emulsion were prepared for probiotics, with butterfat containing probiotics as the inner core and with whey protein isolate fibrils (WPIF) and antioxidants (epigallocatechin gallate, EGCG; glutathione, GSH) as the outer shell.

RESULTS

Based on the high viscosity and good emulsifying ability of WPIF, dry well-dispersed microcapsules were successfully prepared via the stabilization of the butterfat emulsion during freeze-drying with 30-50 g L-1 WPIF. WPIF, WPIF + EGCG, and WPIF + GSH microcapsules with 50 g L-1 WPIF protected probiotics very well against different stresses and exhibited similar inactivation results, indicating that EGCG and GSH exerted neither harm or protection on probiotics. This significantly reduced the harmful effects of antioxidants on probiotics. Almost all the probiotics survived after pasteurization, which was critical for the use of probiotics in other foods. The inactivation values of probiotics in microcapsules were around 1 log in simulated gastric juice (SGJ), about 0.5 log in simulated intestinal juice (SIJ), and around 1 log after 40 days of ambient storage.

CONCLUSION

Dry S/O/W microcapsule, with butterfat containing probiotics as the inner core and WPIF as the outer shell, significantly increased the resistance of probiotics to harsh environments. This work proposed a preparation method of dry S/O/W microcapsule with core/shell structure, which could be used in the encapsulation of probiotics and other bioactive ingredients.

Probiotics are beneficial for liver cirrhosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials

Introduction

Gut dysbiosis may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of cirrhosis and the severity of complications. Numerous studies have investigated the probiotics as treatments for cirrhosis. However, there is still a lack of definitive evidence confirming the beneficial effects of probiotics on cirrhosis.

Methods

Databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials that compared the effects of probiotic intervention and control treatments, including placebo, no treatment, and active control, on cirrhosis, published from inception to February 2024. Outcomes included hepatic encephalopathy (HE) reversal, safety and tolerability of probiotics, liver function, quality of life, and other cirrhotic-related outcomes. A meta-analysis was conducted to synthesize evidence.

Results

Thirty studies were included. The quantitative synthesis results showed that compared with the control group, probiotics significantly reverse minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) (risk ratio [RR] 1.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03 to 2.32) and improve HE (RR 1.94, 95% CI 1.24 to 3.06). Additionally, probiotics demonstrated higher safety and tolerability by causing a lower incidence of serious adverse events (RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.87). Probiotics could potentially improve liver function by reducing the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores (standardized mean difference [SMD] -0.57, 95% CI -0.85 to -0.30), and displayed favorable changes in quality of life (SMD 0.51, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.75) and gut flora (SMD 1.67, 95% CI 1.28 to 2.06).

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta-analysis offers compelling evidence that probiotics are beneficial for cirrhosis by demonstrating reversal of HE, potential for liver function improvements, enhancements in quality of life, and regulation of gut dysbiosis. Furthermore, the apparent safety profile suggests that probiotics are a promising intervention for treating cirrhosis.

Clinical trial registration number

CRD42023478380.

Lactic Acid Bacteria of Marine Origin as a Tool for Successful Shellfish Farming and Adaptation to Climate Change Conditions

Climate change, especially in the form of temperature increase and sea acidification, poses a serious challenge to the sustainability of aquaculture and shellfish farming. In this context, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) of marine origin have attracted attention due to their ability to improve water quality, stimulate the growth and immunity of organisms, and reduce the impact of stress caused by environmental changes. Through a review of relevant research, this paper summarizes previous knowledge on this group of bacteria, their application as protective probiotic cultures in mollusks, and also highlights their potential in reducing the negative impacts of climate change during shellfish farming. Furthermore, opportunities for further research and implementation of LAB as a sustainable and effective solution for adapting mariculture to changing climate conditions were identified.

Probiotic supplementation for 24 weeks in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis: the PROBILIVER randomized clinical trial

Background and aim

Considering the increasing prevalence of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and treatment gaps, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of probiotic supplementation on liver function markers, nutritional status, and clinical parameters.

Methods

This double-blind, randomized clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT0346782) included adult outpatients with biopsy-proven NASH. The intervention consisted of 24 weeks of supplementation with the probiotic mix Lactobacillus acidophilus (1 × 109 CFU) + Lactobacillus rhamnosus (1 × 109 CFU) + Lactobacillus paracasei (1 × 109 CFU) + Bifidobacterium lactis (1 × 109 CFU), or placebo, twice a day. The following parameters were evaluated: demographic and clinical data, transient elastography (FibroScan), liver enzymes, NAFLD fibrosis score, fatty liver index, laboratory assessment, serum concentration of toll-like receptor-4 (sTLR-4) and cytokeratin 18 (CK-18), anthropometric data, dietary intake, and physical activity. Regarding data analysis, the comparison between the groups was based on the delta of the difference of each variable analyzed (value at the end of treatment minus the baseline value) using the t-test for independent samples or the Mann-Whitney U-test.

Results

Forty-four patients with NASH completed the trial (51.4 ± 11.6 years). At baseline, 87% of participants had a mild liver fibrosis degree on biopsy, normal values of liver enzymes, transient elastography values consistent with grade 1 fibrosis in both groups, increased waist circumference (WC), a BMI of 30.97 kg/m2, and 76% presented with metabolic syndrome (MetS). After the intervention, no differences were observed between the probiotic and placebo groups in terms of MetS, WC, BMI scores, or liver enzyme levels (p > 0.05 for all). The elastography values remained consistent with grade 1 fibrosis in both groups. Although CK-18 was reduced in both groups, a larger effect size was noted in the probiotic group (D = 1.336). sTLR-4 was also reduced in both groups, with no difference between groups (p = 0.885).

Conclusion

Intervention with probiotics in the early stages of NASH demonstrated no significant change in hepatic and clinical parameters.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT0346782.

Nutritional Characteristics, Health Impact, and Applications of Kefir

A global epidemiological shift has been observed in recent decades, characterized by an increase in age-related disorders, notably non-communicable chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. An appreciable causal link between changes in the gut microbiota and the onset of these maladies has been recognized, offering an avenue for effective management. Kefir, a probiotic-enriched fermented food, has gained significance in this setting due to its promising resource for the development of functional or value-added food formulations and its ability to reshape gut microbial composition. This has led to increasing commercial interest worldwide as it presents a natural beverage replete with health-promoting microbes and several bioactive compounds. Given the substantial role of the gut microbiota in human health and the etiology of several diseases, we conducted a comprehensive synthesis covering a total of 33 investigations involving experimental animal models, aimed to elucidate the regulatory influence of bioactive compounds present in kefir on gut microbiota and their potential in promoting optimal health. This review underscores the outstanding nutritional properties of kefir as a central repository of bioactive compounds encompassing micronutrients and amino acids and delineates their regulatory effects at deficient, adequate, and supra-nutritional intakes on the gut microbiota and their broader physiological consequences. Furthermore, an investigation of putative mechanisms that govern the regulatory effects of kefir on the gut microbiota and its connections with various human diseases was discussed, along with potential applications in the food industry.