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Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most prevalent chronic liver alterations worldwide, being gut microbiota dysbiosis one of the contributing factors to its development. The aim of this research is to compare the potential effects of a viable probiotic (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) with those exerted by its heat‐inactivated paraprobiotic counterpart in a dietary rodent model of NAFLD. The probiotic administration effectively prevented the hepatic lipid accumulation induced by a high‐fat high‐fructose diet feeding, as demonstrated by chemical (lower TG content) and histological (lower steatosis grade and lobular inflammation) analyses. This effect was mainly mediated by the downregulation of lipid uptake (FATP2 protein expression) and upregulating liver TG release to bloodstream (MTTP activity) in rats receiving the probiotic. By contrast, the effect of the paraprobiotic preventing diet‐induced liver lipid accumulation was milder, and mainly derived from the downregulation of hepatic de novo lipogenesis (SREBP‐1c protein expression and FAS activity) and TG assembly (DGAT2 and AQP9 protein expression). The obtained results demonstrate that under these experimental conditions, the effects induced by the administration of viable L. rhamnosus GG preventing liver lipid accumulation in rats fed a diet rich in saturated fat and fructose differ from those induced by its heat‐inactivated paraprobiotic counterpart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of probiotics in providing health benefits may be related to their ability to survive at a sufficient concentration of 106 CFU/g during storage in food and colonization in the gastrointestinal tract. Microencapsulation is a viable method to improve the survivability of probiotics under harsh environmental conditions. In this research, microencapsulated Lactobacillus rhamnosus (MLR) was produced by a two‐layer extrusion technique with sodium alginate and wild sage (Salvia macrosiphon) mucilage (SMM) in varying concentrations ranging from 0.2% to 0.8% as the first and second wall materials, respectively. The microencapsulation efficiency and second layer diameter of beads increased significantly with the increase in SMM concentrations. Microencapsulated Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LR) maintained its minimal concentration (6 log CFU/g) during 9 min at 72°C. The MLR‐date yogurt (DY) sample had the lowest pH, highest acidity, and highest survival rate among the others at the end of storage. In simulated gastrointestinal conditions (SGC), the survival rates of free LR (FLR) and MLR were 45% and 47% on the 14th day of storage, respectively. In sensory properties, MLR had the highest score in odor and texture parameters but not in others. The MLR viscosity (666.3 mPa·s−1) and SEM images show a relatively denser structure for MLR. In conclusion, this study emphasized the potential of using double‐layered beads to protect probiotics, providing valuable inspiration for developing new functional foods with higher survival ability in harsh conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the root canal microbiome composition and bacterial functional capability in cases of primary and secondary apical periodontitis utilizing whole‐metagenome shotgun sequencing. Methodology: Twenty‐two samples from patients with primary root canal infections, and 18 samples obtained from previously treated teeth currently diagnosed with apical periodontitis were analysed with whole‐metagenome shotgun sequencing at a depth of 20 M reads. Taxonomic and functional gene annotations were made using MetaPhlAn3 and HUMAnN3 software. The Shannon and Chao1 indices were utilized to measure alpha diversity. Differences in community composition were evaluated utilizing analysis of similarity (ANOSIM) using Bray‐Curtis dissimilarities. The Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare differences in taxa and functional genes. Results: Microbial community variations within a community were significantly lower in secondary relative to primary infections (alpha diversity p =.001). Community composition was significantly different in primary versus secondary infection (R =.11, p =.005). The predominant taxa observed among samples (>2.5%) were Pseudopropionibacterium propionicum, Prevotella oris, Eubacterium infirmum, Tannerella forsythia, Atopobium rimae, Peptostreptococcus stomatis, Bacteroidetes bacterium oral taxon 272, Parvimonas micra, Olsenella profusa, Streptococcus anginosus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Porphyromonas endodontalis, Pseudoramibacter alactolyticus, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Eubacterium brachy and Solobacterium moorei. The Wilcoxon rank test revealed no significant differences in relative abundances of functional genes in both groups. Genes with greater relative abundances (top 25) were associated with genetic, signalling and cellular processes including the iron and peptide/nickel transport system. Numerous genes encoding toxins were identified: exfoliative toxin, haemolysins, thiol‐activated cytolysin, phospholipase C, cAMP factor, sialidase, and hyaluronic glucosaminidase. Conclusions: Despite taxonomic differences between primary and secondary apical periodontitis, the functional capability of the microbiomes was similar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Helicobacter pylori infection‐associated gastric adenocarcinoma is influenced by various factors, including the digestive microbiota. Lactic acid bacteria role in digestive carcinogenesis has been discussed, and some Lactobacillaceae family species have been shown to act against H. pylori‐induced inflammation and colonization. However, their effects on H. pylori‐related carcinogenesis have not yet been studied. Lactobacillaceae family effects on the epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), emergence of cells with cancer stem cell (CSC) properties and the pro‐inflammatory response of gastric epithelial cells to H. pylori infection were investigated. Materials and Methods: A co‐culture model of AGS gastric epithelial cells infected with a carcinogenic strain of H. pylori associated with 18 different probiotic strains candidates were used. Different EMT indicators and CSC properties were studied, including quantification of the mesenchymal phenotype, tumorsphere formation, EMT marker expression, and tight junction evaluation with immunofluorescence microscopy. The effect of the strains on the pro‐inflammatory response to H. pylori was also evaluated by quantifying interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) production using ELISA. Results: Among the strains tested, Lactobacillus gasseri BIO6369 and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus BIO5326 induced a 30.6% and 38.4% reduction in the mesenchymal phenotype, respectively, caused a significant decrease in Snail and Zeb1 EMT marker expression and prevented the loss of tight junctions induced by H. pylori infection. A separate co‐culture with a Boyden chamber maintained the effects induced by the two strains. H. pylori‐induced IL‐8 production was also significantly reduced in the presence of L. gasseri BIO6369 and L. rhamnosus BIO5326. Conclusion: Lactobacillus gasseri BIO6369 and L. rhamnosus BIO5326 strains decreased epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition and inflammation induced by H. pylori infection, suggesting that these species may have a protective effect against H. pylori‐induced gastric carcinogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactobacillus rhamnosus AFY02 (LR‐AFY02) is a newly discovered strain isolated and identified from naturally fermented yogurt in Xinjiang, China. This research aims to investigate the mechanism of action of LR‐AFY02 in mice with acute gouty arthritis. We examined the degree of foot swelling, pain threshold, blood biochemical indicators, histopathological changes, and mRNA expression. LR‐AFY02 can decrease the severity of mouse foot edema and raise the pain threshold. LR‐AFY02 can increase the enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the level of glutathione (GSH) while lowering the enzyme activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in mice with acute arthritis. Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), IL‐10, interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) levels in the blood of mice with acute arthritis are also decreased by LR‐AFY02. Histopathological findings demonstrated that LR‐AFY02 reduced tissue damage in the mouse foot and ankle joints. LR‐AFY02 may suppress the mRNA expression of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), IL‐6, interferon gamma (IFN‐γ), and TNF‐α in the tissues of the ankle joints of mice with acute arthritis. Additionally, LR‐AFY02 has the ability to increase the expression of catalase (CAT), manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn‐SOD), and copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn‐SOD). As a result, it is clear that L. rhamnosus AFY02 is more effective than glucosamine sulfate at preventing acute gouty arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the role of ultrasonicated Lactobacillus rhamnosus extract in osteoclast differentiation and its underlying mechanism, providing new strategies for the treatment of periodontitis. Materials and Methods: Osteoclasts were induced using macrophage colony‐stimulating factor and receptor activator for nuclear factor‐κB ligand. Lactobacillus rhamnosus extracts were obtained via ultrasonic crushing and ultracentrifugation. The effects of the LGG extract on osteoclast differentiation were evaluated, and the related signaling pathways were examined using western blotting. A mouse periodontitis model was established, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus extract was injected into the gingival sulcus to evaluate the inhibitory effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus extract on alveolar bone resorption. Results: At 50 μg/mL, Lactobacillus rhamnosus extract inhibited osteoclast differentiation with no effect on apoptosis and proliferation. This phenomenon was achieved by deactivating the NF‐κB/c‐Fos/NFATc1 signaling pathway through toll‐like receptor 2. The in vivo results showed that the local injection of Lactobacillus rhamnosus extract suppressed osteoclast differentiation and alveolar bone resorption. Conclusion: The ultrasonicated extract of Lactobacillus rhamnosus inhibited osteoclast differentiation by suppressing the activation of the NF‐κB/c‐Fos/NFATc1 pathway. Furthermore, it inhibited the destruction of the alveolar bone, providing a new strategy for the use of probiotics in the treatment of periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The most prevalent probiotic bacterium employed in the food industry is Lactobacillus because it can produce metabolites with antibacterial capabilities and exhibits hostility towards infections and microorganisms that cause spoilage. Aim: This study set out to identify naturally occurring Lactobacillus and plantaricin (pln EF) coding genes in raw cow milk and to assess the antibacterial potency of isolated Lactobacillus isolates. Methods: Following enrichment in De Man, Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) broth, single colonies were isolated, and pure colonies were obtained by streaking on MRS agar. The 16S rRNA gene was amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to confirm the cultural positivity of all isolates. Additionally, the presence of plantaricin was verified by targeting the pln EF gene through PCR. Outcome: Out of the 166 raw milk specimens acquired from cows, 153 (91.17%; CI: 86.98–95.76) were identified as positive for Lactobacillus through both culture and biochemical screening. Subsequently, 121 (72.89%; CI: 65.46–79.49) of the isolates were affirmed to harbour Lactobacillus through PCR analysis. Within this subset, 6 isolates (4.96%; CI: 1.84–10.48) were found to possess the plnEF gene. When exposed to Lactobacillus isolates, Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella enterica displayed an average maximum zone of inhibition with a diameter measuring 24 mm. In contrast, Escherichia coli exhibited an average minimum zone of inhibition, featuring a diameter of 11 mm. Additionally, the Lactobacillus isolates demonstrated inhibitory zones against Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Klebsiella oxytoca, measuring 14, 22 and 19 mm, respectively. Clinical significance: Lactic acid bacteria, particularly Lactobacilli, are plentiful in cow milk and possess broad‐spectrum antibacterial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), the well‐characterized human‐derived probiotic strain, possesses excellent properties in the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis, immunoregulation and defense against gastrointestinal pathogens in mammals. Here, we demonstrate that the SpaC pilin of LGG causes intestinal epithelium injury by inducing cell pyroptosis and gut microbial dysbiosis in zebrafish. Dietary SpaC activates Caspase‐3−GSDMEa pathways in the intestinal epithelium, promotes intestinal pyroptosis and increases lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐producing gut microbes in zebrafish. The increased LPS subsequently activates Gaspy2−GSDMEb pyroptosis pathway. Further analysis reveals the Caspase‐3−GSDMEa pyroptosis is initiated by the species‐specific recognition of SpaC by TLR4ba, which accounts for the species‐specificity of the SpaC‐inducing intestinal pyroptosis in zebrafish. The observed pyroptosis‐driven gut injury and microbial dysbiosis by LGG in zebrafish suggest that host‐specific beneficial/harmful mechanisms are critical safety issues when applying probiotics derived from other host species and need more attention. Highlights: SpaC pilin acts as a causative factor of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG‐induced intestinal mucosa damage in zebrafish.Dietary SpaC directly induces intestinal pyroptosis by activating GSDMEa in zebrafish.Dietary SpaC induces gut microbial dysbiosis characterized by higher abundance of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐producing gut microbes in zebrafish.LPS‐producing gut microbes subsequently activate Gaspy2−GSDMEb pyroptosis pathway in zebrafish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Xanthan gum can be utilised to overcome the structural defects in alginate microbeads and to improve the stability of microbeads under harsh conditions, that is, high acidic pH and homogenisation speeds. Present study was conducted to assess the survival of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG using alginate (1.5% w/v) and xanthan gum (0.5% w/v) for encapsulation and structural modifications of microbeads. Homogenisation emulsion technique was used for encapsulation at various homogenisation speeds, that is, 3000 rpm (HS1), 6000 rpm (HS2), 9000 rpm (HS3) and 12 000 rpm (HS4). The resultant microbeads were characterised for diameter, beads yield, structural morphology using the scanning electron microscopy, probiotic count, bacterial survival, storage stability and homogenisation efficiency. Scanning electron microscopy images indicated that the beads produced at 12 000 rpm are more uniform, spherical in shape and have large surface area when compared with the other treatment groups. The diameter of microbeads was reduced from 323.1 to 238.2 μm as the homogenisation speed increased from 3000 to 12 000 rpm. The highest bacterial count (i.e., 9.45 log CFU g−1), homogenisation efficiency (91.6%), beads yield (23.0%), survivability (86.5%) and storage stability (9.84 to 7.90 log CFU g−1) were recorded at 12 000 rpm (HS4). Conclusively, the homogenised encapsulated microbeads at 12 000 rpm significantly improved the beads surface and sphericity, and bacterial survivability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: During edible film production, several processes are carried out to maintain the probiotic viability, increasing its cost. However, fermentation to culture probiotics that will be later used for edible film production may increase their resistance during production, application and storage. Therefore, this study aimed to develop edible films based on potato starch or sweet potato flour and non‐fermented or fermented (Lactobacillus rhamnosus) whey solution. Edible films were evaluated for their physical, probiotic survival, antioxidant capacity and structural characteristics after 28 days of storage (4 and 20 °C). Selected films were used for covering commercial surimi to evaluate their effect on some quality properties. The edible films presented a moisture content of 12.68–18.97%, colour characteristics according to the powder used in their formulation, and a probiotic count higher than 9‐log cycles. The fermentation process improved the stability of antioxidant compounds in edible films during storage and gastrointestinal simulation. According to the handling characteristics, edible films based on potato starch (100%) and potato starch/sweet potato (90/10% and 80/20%) were formulated and applied. Although the consumers well‐accepted covered surimi, the probiotic counts were lower than 6‐log after storage, values below the threshold required to exert its beneficial effects in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Recently, there has been growing interest in intentionally incorporating fermentation starters into the traditional brewing process. Our study examined the impact of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus rhamnosus on the flavour profiles of sweet fermented glutinous rice (SFGR). Saccharomyces cerevisiae obviously increased the ethanol content, whereas Lactobacillus rhamnosus notably raised the total acidity. Lactic acid became the dominant organic acid after the addition of Lactobacillus rhamnosus. The volatiles were analysed using electronic nose (E‐nose) and gas chromatography‐ion mobility spectrometry (GC‐IMS). S4 sensor of E‐nose exhibited the most extensive response to all samples. Saccharomyces cerevisiae increased ethanol and 3‐methylbutan‐1‐ol levels, while Lactobacillus rhamnosus led to a significant increase in acetone. Principal component analysis effectively discriminated the aroma of SFGR with different starters. Additionally, a strong correlation was observed between the E‐nose and GC‐IMS results. Our study shows that Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus rhamnosus can enhance the flavour of fermented rice products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanut allergy affects about 1%–3% of the pediatric population in the world, with an important increase in the last decades. Nowadays, international guidelines recommend the early introduction of peanuts in the infant diet, with poor information about the quantity and the frequency of the intake. Allergen immunotherapy may represent the only therapeutic strategy able to modify the natural history of peanut allergy. In particular, oral immunotherapy showed the most promising results in terms of efficacy, but with significant rates of adverse reactions, mostly gastrointestinal. In 2020, the Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency approved Palforzia®, an oral drug for patients aged 4–17 years. Several studies are ongoing to improve the tolerability of oral immunotherapy and standardize the desensitization protocols. Sublingual immunotherapy permits to offer much lower doses than oral immunotherapy, but fewer adverse events are shown. Subcutaneous immunotherapy is associated with the greatest systemic adverse effects. Epicutaneous immunotherapy, for which Viaskin® patch was approved, has the highest safety profile. Innovative studies are evaluating the use of biological drugs, such as omalizumab or dupilumab, and probiotics, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus, in monotherapy or associated with oral immunotherapy. Therapy for peanut allergy is constantly evolving, and new perspectives are ongoing to develop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is known as an autoimmune disorder that is characterized by the breakdown of self‐tolerance, resulting in disease onset and progression. Macrophages have been implicated as a factor in the development of SLE through faulty phagocytosis of dead cells or an imbalanced M1/M2 ratio. The study aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of Lactobacillus delbrueckii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus on M1 and M2 macrophages in new case lupus patients. For this purpose, blood monocytes were collected from lupus patients and healthy people and were cultured for 5 days to produce macrophages. For 48 h, the macrophages were then cocultured with either probiotics or lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Flow cytometry and real‐time polymerase chain reaction were then used to analyze the expression of cluster of differentiation (CD) 14, CD80, and human leukocyte antigen – DR (HLADR) markers, as well as cytokine expression (interleukin [IL]1‐β, IL‐12, tumor necrosis factor α [TNF‐α], IL‐10, and transforming growth factor beta [TGF‐β]). The results indicated three distinct macrophage populations, M0, M1, and M2. In both control and patient‐derived macrophage‐derived monocytes (MDMs), the probiotic groups showed a decrease in CD14, CD80, and HLADR expression compared to the LPS group. This decrease was particularly evident in M0 and M2 macrophages from lupus patients and M1 macrophages from healthy subjects. In addition, the probiotic groups showed increased levels of IL‐10 and TGF‐β and decreased levels of IL‐12, IL1‐β, and TNF‐α in MDMs from both healthy and lupus subjects compared to the LPS groups. Although there was a higher expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in lupus patients, there was a higher expression of anti‐inflammatory cytokines in healthy subjects. In general, L. delbrueckii and L. rhamnosus could induce anti‐inflammatory effects on MDMs from both healthy and lupus subjects. Significance statement: Macrophages have been implicated as a factor in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus through faulty phagocytosis of dead cells or an imbalanced M1/M2 ratio. The study aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of Lactobacillus delbrueckii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus on M1 and M2 macrophages in new case lupus patients. L. delbrueckii and L. rhamnosus could induce anti‐inflammatory effects on macrophage‐derived monocytes (MDMs) from both healthy and lupus subjects. In both control and patient‐derived MDMs, the probiotic groups showed a decrease in cluster of differentiation (CD) 14, CD80, and Human Leukocyte Antigen – DR expression compared to the lipopolysaccharides (LPS) group. Also observed the increased levels of interleukin (IL)‐10 and transforming growth factor beta and decreased levels of IL‐12, IL1‐β, and tumor necrosis factor α in MDMs from both healthy and lupus subjects compared to the LPS groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different organic compounds can have varying degrees of impact on the activity of Lactobacillus paracasei. The study focused on the impact and action mechanism of different organic selenium products on the bioactivity of two strains of L. paracasei. The growth, antioxidant activity, extracellular polysaccharide secretion, quorum sensing (QS), and biofilm formation of the strains before and after the addition of organic selenium crude products and three organic selenium standard were evaluated. The results showed that the addition of crude organic selenium promoted the various activities of the strain. l‐selenocysteine had the strongest regulatory effect, with maximum GIM1.80 biofilm formation when it reached a critical concentration of 0.4 μg/mL; l‐selenomethionine resulted in the highest activity of the signal molecule Auto inducer‐2 of GDMCC1.155, when it reached a critical concentration of 0.4 μg/mL. The results of scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that the addition of organic selenium effectively improved the morphological structure of the two bacterial cells. Molecular docking revealed that the mechanism by which organic selenium regulates QS in Lactobacillus was achieved by binding two crucial receptor proteins (histidine protein kinase HKP and periplasmic binding protein LuxP) from specific sites. Furthermore, organic selenium products have a beneficial regulatory effect on the biological activity of L. paracasei. Overall, these findings provide a new alternative (organic selenium) for regulating the viability and beneficial activity of L. paracasei. Significance Statement: The study found that organic selenium can promote the growth, antioxidant activity, and biofilm formation of Lactobacillus by activating quorum sensing (QS). Uniquely, organic selenium can both positively and negatively regulate QS and biofilm formation of Lactobacillus, and critical concentrations have also been obtained. Furthermore, the regulating mechanism of organic selenium on the activity of Lactobacillus was revealed. This study provides a new alternative for regulating and stimulating the beneficial activity of probiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor recurrence and unfavorable bacterial biofilm formation on implants after bone tumor resection remain challenging in clinical settings. However, this dilemma also provides inspiration for the development of bioactive implants and a new route for the management of bone tumors through biofilm formation. Here, based on the characteristic that bacteria prefer to adhere to implants, 3D‐printing bioceramic scaffolds modified with probiotic biofilms are designed to augment antitumor immunity. In comparison with Akkermansia muciniphila, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is demonstrated to more easily form biofilms on bioceramics and is selected to engineer etched bioceramics. The LGG biofilm subjected to pasteurization guarantees good biocompatibility and enhanced doxorubicin (Dox) loading. Furthermore, the LGG biofilm combined with Dox imparts the scaffolds with multiple properties of direct chemo‐killing for tumor cells and potent immune activation. The modified scaffolds efficiently inhibit bone tumor recurrence and bone metastasis in murine tumor model receives surgical resection. Moreover, based on 3D‐printing technology, the probiotic biofilm modified scaffolds with adjustable shapes are also demonstrated to repair shape‐specific bone defects after tumor elimination. Collectively, the multifunctional 3D‐printing scaffolds realize the integrated treatment of tumor elimination and bone repair, providing a promising strategy for clinical treatment of bone tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gut microbiota (GM) is the collection of small organisms such as bacteria, fungi, bacteriophages and protozoans living in the intestine in symbiotics relation within their host. GM regulates host metabolism by various mechanisms. Methods: This review aims to consolidate current information for physicians on the effect of GM on bone health. For this, an online search of the literature was conducted using the keywords gut microbiota, bone mass, osteoporosis, Lactobacillus and sex steroid. Results and Conclusions: There is a considerable degree of variation in bone mineral density (BMD) within populations, and it is estimated that a significant component of BMD variability is due to genetics. However, the remaining causes of bone mass variance within populations remain largely unknown. A well‐recognized cause of phenotypic variation in bone mass is the composition of the microbiome. Studies have shown that germ‐free (GF) mice have higher bone mass compared to conventionally raised (CR) mice. Furthermore, GM dysbiosis, also called dysbacteriosis, is defined as any alteration in the composition of the microbial community that has been colonized in the host intestine and associated with the development of bone diseases. For instance, postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) and diabetes. GM can be modulated by several factors such as genetics, age, drugs, food habits and probiotics. Probiotics are defined as viable bacteria that confer health benefits by modulating GM when administered in adequate quantity. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is a great example of such a probiotic. LGG has been shown to regulate bone mass in healthy mice as well as ovariectomized (OVX) mice via two different mechanisms. This review will focus on the literature regarding the mechanism by which GM and probiotic LGG regulate bone mass in healthy mice as well as in OVX mice, a model of PMO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document contains summaries of various research studies related to obstetrics and gynecology. The studies cover a wide range of topics, including breastfeeding's effects on maternal health, the impact of cord clamping time on placental transfusion, and the detection of fetal membrane cells in maternal blood. Other topics include the association between physical activity during pregnancy and maternal blood lipid concentrations, the effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus intake during pregnancy on inflammation, and the risk of preterm birth in women with well-treated HIV. These studies provide valuable insights into different aspects of obstetrics and gynecology, contributing to our understanding of maternal health and pregnancy outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

This study aimed to use natural herbal gums, as fat replacers, for preparing a low‐fat synbiotic cream cheese; for this purpose, the effects of Lepidium perfoliatum seed gum (LPSG) (1% w/w) and flaxseed gum (FG) (1% w/w) on physicochemical, rheological, organoleptic, and microstructural properties of low‐fat cream cheese containing B. adolescentis and L. rhamnosus were analyzed over a 45‐day storage period. The results indicated that adding LPSG and FG had no significant effects on acidity and pH (p >.05). The results also showed that full‐fat (FF) cheese samples had the highest textural (hardness (1.099–0.88), cohesiveness (0.72–0.67), springiness (1.95–1.64), adhesiveness (1.01–0.69), and spreadability (1.53–1.17)), viscosity and sensory scores (color (4.22–4.18), odor (4.13–4.09), taste (4.19–3.89), texture (4.08–3.81), and overall acceptability (4.01–3.72)) during 45‐day storage. Based on the probiotic count test, only the treated samples with LPSG + FG had a probiotic count in the standard range (6.23 cfu/g) at the end of the storage time. The outcomes of the present study indicated that the incorporation of LPSG and FG into the formulation of low‐fat synbiotic cream cheese could be an effective strategy to overcome the problems associated with fat reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of fructooligosaccharide (FOS) and inulin (IN) on the properties of sodium caseinate‐based films containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. The optimal formulations were determined and tested for coating sliced cheese during storage. FOS and IN generally increased the thickness and moisture values of the films, while opacity increased with the increase in IN concentration. Tensile strength decreased with FOS and IN, and elongation at break decreased at high prebiotic concentrations. The viability of L. rhamnosus after the drying of the film solution was between 77.67% and 89.91%, and total prebiotic concentration above 2% generally decreased drying stability of L. rhamnosus. The optimal formulations were 0% FOS + 0% IN, 1% FOS + 0% IN and 0% FOS + 1% IN, respectively. These film matrices were found to be suitable carriers for L. rhamnosus. Coating treatments reduced moisture loss, acidity and hardness increase in cheese slices, but decreased luminosity. The probiotic counts in coated cheese were sufficient for therapeutic effect after approximately 20 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As mentioned, gut microbiota partially controls secretion of satiety-regulating hormones, but in turn these hormones can control the microbial habitat in the gut. If gut microbiota affect CNS functions through neurochemicals, this is likely to be in an indirect manner, acting on the vagus nerve or the enteric nervous system (ENS) [[19]]. The gut microbiota is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms present in the gastrointestinal tract. DEVELOPMENT OF THE GUT MICROBIOTA Like any other form of life, the gut microbiota has to grow into its "adult" form. [Extracted from the article]

BACKGROUND: Astragali Radix (also known as Astragulus) is a traditional medicinal and edible homologous plant for tonifying Qi. Honey‐processed Astragalus is a dosage form of Astragali Radix processed with honey, which exhibited better efficacy of tonifying Qi than the raw product. Polysaccharides are their main active components. RESULTS: APS2a and HAPS2a were initially isolated from Astragulus and honey‐processed Astragulus. Both of them are highly branched acidic heteropolysaccharides containing ɑ‐configuration and β‐configuration glycosidic bonds. The molecular weight and the molecular dimension of HAPS2a decreased and the GalA contained in APS2a was converted to Gal in HAPS2a. The α‐configuration galactose residue 1,3,4‐α‐Galp in the backbone of APS2a was converted to the corresponding β‐configuration galactose residue 1,3,4‐β‐Galp in the backbone of HAPS2a and the uronic acid residue T‐α‐GalpA in the sidechain of APS2a was converted to the corresponding neutral residue T‐α‐Galp in the side chain of HAPS2a. Bioactivity results showed that HAPS2a had better probiotic effects on Bacteroides ovatus, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus strains than APS2a. After degradation, the molecular weights of HAPS2a and APS2a decreased with the changes in their monosaccharide composition. The contents of total short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and other organic acids in HAPS2a group were higher than APS2a group. CONCLUSIONS: Two novel high‐molecular‐weight polysaccharides named APS2a and HAPS2a had different probiotic activities in vitro, which might be due to their structural differences before and after honey processing. Both of them might be possibly used as an immunopotentiator in healthy foods or dietary supplement. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an increasing challenge in probiotic viability and stability during food product formulation, processing, and storage. However, synbiotic functional foods have promising potential to deliver the targeted benefits. This study aimed to isolate the okara from soybean residue, and obtained okara flour was further characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Synbiotic ice cream was developed by fortification with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and okara at different concentrations (1–3%). Additionally, the synbiotic ice cream was subjected to physicochemical and sensory attributes over 60 days of storage. High viability of L. rhamnosus GG (8.17 log CFU/mL) was observed during storage at 3% okara. Moreover, adding okara at 2% or higher improved viscosity, reduced overrun, and maintained probiotic viability. When compared to the control (ice cream without okara), synbiotic ice cream exhibited a higher protein content and a lower fat level. The synergistic combination of probiotics and okara in ice cream is a potentially novel approach for developing functional ice cream. The addition of okara is not only helpful in increasing the nutritional value of the ice cream but will also be a way forward to minimize agricultural waste. Synbiotic ice cream developed in this study may be considered a potential functional food rich in protein and low in fat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure of ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is the main factor from the environment to cause skin photoaging. Lactobacillus rhamnosus ATCC 7469, is a probiotic strain with a good track record for enhancing human health. The present study conducted the impacts of heat‐killed L. rhamnosus ATCC 7469 (RL) on photoaging in vitro using mouse skin fibroblast (MSF) cells and human epidermal melanocytes (HEM) exposed to UVB. The results showed that (1) RL‐protected UVB‐induced cytotoxicity relating to absorb UVB and reduce DNA damage. (2) RL exerted the antiwrinkle impact involved in two aspects. Firstly, RL downregulated MMP‐1, 2, 3 expressions associating with MAPK signaling, resulting in the increased the protein expression of COL1A1, further booting type I collagen abundant thereby promoting the antiwrinkle impact in MSF cells. Secondly, RL reduced ROS content, further decreasing oxidative damage relating to Nrf2/Sirt3/SOD2 signaling, thereby promoting the antiwrinkle impact in MSF cells. (3) RL suppressed tyrosinase and TYRP‐2 activity and/or levels associating with PKA/CREB/MITF signaling, thereby promoting antimelanogenesis impact in HEM cells. In conclusion, our findings suggest that RL could reduce photoaging caused by UVB via antiwrinkle and antimelanogenesis properties and may be a potential antiphotoaging beneficial component, which is applied in the cosmetic industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Due to the recency of the postbiotic field, no head‐to‐head postbiotic studies have investigated its biotherapeutic potential for atopic dermatitis (AD). No network meta‐analysis (NMA) has been conducted to synthesize relevant studies comparing postbiotic interventions for AD. Objective: To assess the comparative efficacy and safety of postbiotic strains in the treatment of pediatric AD. Methodology: This was an NMA of randomized controlled studies that evaluated postbiotics in treating pediatric AD. Systematic search of databases and registers from inception to November 30, 2022. Three authors independently performed the search, screening, and appraisal using the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool version 2 and data extraction. Data analysis was performed using STATA14 software. Results: Nine studies evaluated eight postbiotic preparations. Lactobacillus rhamnosus IDCC 3201 (LR) ranked highest in the efficacy outcome. Compared to placebo, LR may be effective in reducing symptoms of atopic dermatitis in the main analysis (SMD −0.53, 95%CI −1.02 to −0.04) and sensitivity analysis involving studies that used SCORAD (MD −5.52, 95% CI −10.46 to −0.58), based on low‐certainty evidence. Based on moderate‐certainty evidence, LR probably did not increase the risk of adverse events (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.79, 1.21). Although Lactobacillus paracasei GM080 (LP2) ranked highest in the safety outcome, it may not reduce AD symptoms compared to placebo (SMD −0.03, 95% CI −0.37, 0.32) based on low‐certainty evidence. Conclusion: LR showed significant benefits in children with AD based on low‐certainty evidence. Further investigation of LR is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the production of lactic acid from municipal forestry and greening wastes processed by steam explosion (SE) and enzymatic hydrolysis is reported. The liquid fraction hydrolysate (LFH) obtained after filtration of the steam‐exploded slurry (previously subjected to detoxification) and the enzymatic hydrolysate resulting from the water insoluble solid fraction (WIS‐derived hydrolysate, WDH) are studied as substrate for lactic acid fermentation using an integrated strategy. The fermentation process of WDH using Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus rhamnosus shows similar sugar conversion yields of about 0.9 g g−1 (based on consumed glucose). In contrast, the use of detoxified LFH (d‐LFH) completely inhibits B. coagulans, making necessary a previous dilution with the WDH to trigger fermentation when using this microorganism. The best integrated strategy using both d‐LFH and WDH streams and B. coagulans as fermentative strain has a 1:3 d‐LFH:WDH ratio, yielding 0.93 g lactic acid g−1 of consumed sugars and a lactic acid concentration of about 50 g L−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To synthesise the current knowledge on the effects of probiotics in apical periodontitis progression by a scoping review of animal and human studies. Reporting was based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) Extension for Scoping Reviews. The literature search and screening was performed on PubMed and Scopus databases by two independent reviewers selecting human and animal studies that evaluated the effectiveness of probiotics in reducing the severity of apical periodontitis. Two animal studies with 3 publications met the eligibility criteria for qualitative synthesis. The most common probiotics were Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus acidophilus orally administered for gavage in Wistar rats with induced apical periodontitis. Overall, probiotics significantly reduced inflammation and bone resorption with an improvement in the apical periodontitis progression. Although results in animal studies are promising, the use of probiotics in apical periodontitis progression requires caution due to the insufficient available evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large amount of household food waste (HFW) is generated yearly and may negatively impact the environment and human health. The recovery of value‐added chemicals lactic acid (LA) from HFW through anaerobic treatment is a promising approach. However, it remains a challenge to increase the LA yield. In this paper, the LA production from HFW was enhanced by Lactobacillus rhamnosus ATCC 7469 through simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF). The results showed that the mixed commercial enzymes of plant enzymes (E1), animal proteases (E2), and glucoamylase (E3) were more conducive to LA production than those used separately. Compared to the separate hydrolysis and fermentation (SHF), the LA production increased by 14% in the SSF, and the glucose concentration showed different change rules. Additionally, an average LA concentration of 47.7 g L–1 was obtained by repeated batch fermentation through SSF. However, the maximum LA concentration decreased with the fermentation ongoing. The trend of decreasing LA production could be improved by repeated batch fermentation with supplementary inoculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Severe colitis is a common side effect of chemotherapy in cancer patients. In this study, we attempted to enhance the viability of probiotics in a gastric acid environment and improve the colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and docetaxel. Methods: We purified Lactobacillus from yogurt and estimated their growth at pH 6.8 and pH 2.0. In the further investigation, the bacterial biofilm formation was used to define the mechanism by which administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) via oral gavage alleviates the colitis and intestine permeability of the mice induced by DSS and docetaxel. The potential benefit of probiotics on the treatment of breast cancer metastasis has been assessed as well. Results: Lactobacillus from yogurt growth was unexpectedly faster in the pH 2.0 than in the neutral pH medium during the first hour. LGG administered in the fasting state via oral gavage significantly improved the preventive effect in the colitis caused by DSS and docetaxel. LGG reduced the permeability of the intestine and decreased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6, in colitis by biofilm formation. Increasing the docetaxel dose may reduce breast tumor growth and metastasis in the lung but did not benefit survival due to severe colitis. However, the LGG supplement significantly improved the survival of tumor‐bearing mice following a high dose of docetaxel treatment. Conclusions: Our findings provide new insights into the potential mechanism of probiotic protection of the intestine and provide a novel therapeutic strategy to augment the chemotherapeutic treatment of tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic and recurrent gastrointestinal intestinal disease accompanied by inflammatory disorders, immunologic inadequacy, and intestinal flora dysbiosis, and current therapeutic pharmaceuticals have limited side effects. In this study, we revealed the extraction method of Chimonanthus salicifolius, analyzed the main component, compared the effect of its extract, Lactobacillus, and conventional drugs with different properties on DSS (dextran sodium sulfate)‐induced colitis, and indicated extract regulatory properties of inestinal flora. A colitis model was established on experimental design, and BALB/c mice (male, 7 weeks old) were randomly assigned to five groups (n = 10): control, DSS model, Chimonanthus salicifolius extract (CSE), Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), and 5‐aminosalicylic acid (5‐ASA) groups. The three treatments could alleviate the symptoms and remit inflammation induced by DSS, in which CSE and LGG groups could both decrease the proinflammatory cytokine IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α levels and increase anti‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐10 and TGF‐β. The CSE intervention significantly promoted the higher production of butyric acid than LGG and 5‐ASA groups (p <.05) after DSS challenge. Analysis of intestinal flora showed that CSE administration remarkably decreased the relative abundance of pathogenic bacteria Heliobacteriaceae and Peptococcaceae and exhibited higher abundance of Lactobacillaceae and Bifidobacterium than LGG in intestinal tract of mice (p <.05). These findings indicated that Chimonanthus salicifolius extract may have been beneficial for preventing and treating colitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Melatonin seems to have a positive impact on the brain–gut axis and many direct and indirect effects on the gastrointestinal tract. This trial aimed at assessing the efficacy of melatonin combined with Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG given in the treatment of paediatric patients with functional abdominal pain disorders. Methods: Forty‐two patients aged 4–18 years old who fulfilled the Rome IV Diagnostic Criteria for functional abdominal pain disorders were enrolled. Melatonin 3 or 5 mg in combination with Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG (group 1, n = 22) or a placebo in combination with Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG (control group, n = 20) were taken in the evening for a period of 4 weeks. The study duration was 12 weeks. The primary study endpoint was represented by clinical improvement at week 12 – defined as at least a 50% reduction in mean abdominal pain index (API) from baseline to week 12. Results: The mean API was reduced by more than 50% between T0 and T2 in the group of children treated with melatonin. However, the difference in the distributions of the variations of the scores between the two groups was not significant between T0 and T2 (P = 0.082), while it was significant between T0 and T1 (P = 0.001). Similar results were obtained by analysing the API variables 'weekly frequency of pain' (item 1) and 'perceived intensity of pain' (item 4) individually. Conclusions: This is the first study to investigate the role of the combination of melatonin and Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG in the treatment of children with functional abdominal pain disorders. Melatonin combined with Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG can be considered a therapeutic option for these conditions in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Maintaining the viability of probiotics is critical for maximising their functionality. In this study, tara gum, basic amino acids, rice protein and red ginseng dietary fibre were sequentially applied to encapsulate various probiotic strains to improve their viability and enhance their adhesion to intestinal cells. Compared with uncoated control strains, multilayer‐coated probiotic strains exhibited higher survival rates under low pH conditions (maximum survival: 81.8% for Lactobacillus casei) and bile acid conditions (>50% survival for Lactobacillus rhamnosus). Multicoating also increased the ability of probiotic strains to adhere to intestinal epithelial cells. For example, encapsulated L. reuteri exhibited 56.9% adhesion, which was approximately four‐fold higher than that of the uncoated strain. Moreover, compared with the uncoated strains, multicoated strains exhibited significantly improved storage stability under various temperatures after freeze‐drying. Therefore, the quadruple‐coating technology used in this study enhances the viability and stability of probiotic strains, which is a key advantage from the industrial perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study evaluated the anti-hyperglycemic, anti-bone-resorptive, and anti-inflammatory efficacy of the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus EM1107 in an experimental model of ligature-induced periodontitis in diabetic rats treated with metformin.Methods: 114 male Wistar rats randomly divided into six groups: 1) Control, 2) Experimental Periodontitis (EP), 3) EP + diabetes mellitus (DM), 4) EP + Probiotic (Prob), 5) EP + DM + Prob and 6) EP + DM + Prob + metformin (Met). The animals received probiotic gavage during the 30 days of the experiment. DM was induced on the 14th day of the experiment with a single injection of Streptozotocin (STZ) into the penile vein, followed by ligature for EP induction and metformin gavage on the 19th day, and euthanasia on the 30th day. Heart blood, gingival and periodontal tissue, and hemimaxillae were collected. Biomolecular analysis, immunoenzymatic assays, histomorphology, and microtomographic analysis were performed. Data were statistically analyzed (p<0.05).Results: There was a significant reduction in IL-1β and TNF-α in the probiotic groups (p<0.05), as well as in blood glucose levels in the Prob and metformin groups (p<0.001). In addition, the histomorphological analysis revealed that probiotic groups had a reduction in inflammatory infiltrate. TRAP and microtomographic analyzes showed that the EP/DM/Prob/Met group had significantly lower linear and volumetric bone loss than those who had no treatment (p<0.01). SOD and GPx immunostaining decreased in all groups receiving probiotics.Conclusion: The findings suggest the immuno-inflammatory efficacy of the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus EM1107 administered either alone or in association with metformin in type 1 diabetes mellitus associated with periodontitis. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis (UC), affecting millions of patients worldwide, is associated with disorders of the gut microbiota. Probiotics‐based therapy positively regulating the community structure of gut microbiota is regarded as an efficient intervention for UC. However, oral probiotics delivery is restricted by limited bioactivity, short retention time, complex pathological condition, and single therapeutic efficacy. Here, a bioengineered probiotic decorated with a multifunctional prodrug coating is constructed to ameliorate the aforementioned shortcomings. The results of UC mice induced by dextran sulfate sodium demonstrate that the intrinsic features of the fabricated coating integrate gut microbes protection, colon‐targeted drug release, prolonged drug retention, and inflammation regulation. In parallel, the probiotics Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) could regulate the composition of the gut microbiota and improve epithelial barrier function, thereby synergistically ameliorating UC. These results provide ample shreds of evidence of the therapeutic effect on UC, therefore, demonstrate a great promise as the potential therapeutic strategy for UC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Obesity impairs the gastrointestinal microbiome (GM) and may promote micronutrient deficiencies. Bariatric surgery (BS), the most efficacious treatment for severe obesity, produces sustained weight loss and improvements in obesity‐related comorbidities, but might not fully restore microbial balance. Moreover, BS may result in deleterious consequences that affect weight loss and further intensify post‐operative micronutrient deficiencies. To date, the use of probiotics appears to be associated with greater weight loss in bariatric patients, improved vitamin synthesis and availability, and decreased instances of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Thus, manipulation of the GM through probiotics represents a promising therapeutic approach in bariatric patients. This review aims to highlight the benefits of using probiotics in bariatric surgical patients by addressing the impact of probiotics on the GM, how BS impacts the microbial environment, associations between gastrointestinal dysbiosis and negative health outcomes, how BS contributes to dysbiosis, and how probiotics may prove efficacious in treating patients who undergo Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Based on currently available data, the role of microbial manipulation post‐RYGB through probiotics has shown great potential, but a further clinical investigation is warranted to better understand their efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Probiotic products are receiving increasing attention because of their tremendous beneficial health effects. However, it is still a great challenge to preserve probiotic viability during processing, storage and gastrointestinal digestion. Encapsulation is a widely known technology for enhancing bacterial viability and product stability. Hence highly hydrolyzed whey protein hydrolysate (HWPH) and moderately hydrolyzed whey protein hydrolysate (MWPH) used as a one-step culture medium and wall material for Lactobacillus rhamnosus were investigated. RESULTS: H/MWPH-substitutive medium for the growth of Lactobacillus rhamnosus presented double the biomass production compared to other media. The H/MWPH-substitutive medium in combination with freeze drying also led to the highest survival ratio (97.13 ± 9.16%) and cell viability (10.62 log CFU g-1). The highest survival rate of spray-dried cells was 85.56 ± 7.4%. In addition, the cell viability of spray-dried Lactobacillus rhamnosus with MWPH as culture and dry medium was 0.79 log CFU g-1 higher than that of HWPH. Images confirmed that spray-dried Lactobacillus rhamnosus inMWPHprovided better protection and it showed greater sustained viability after gastrointestinal digestion. CONCLUSION: Overall, WPH just as carrier provides better thermal protection and MWPH is a preferable two-in-one medium for probiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits to their animal host by balancing the composition of its gastrointestinal microbiota and modulating its immune response. In this work, we studied bacterial consortia isolated from the rumen of 28‐ and 42‐day‐old calves to select those showing probiotic capacity. Consortia were characterized and their growth dynamics were determined in several growth media. The number of viable bacteria was larger in the Man, Rogosa and Sharpe broth (MRS) than in nutritive medium A (MNA) and the largest was for A3D42. Antibiotic susceptibility of bacterial consortia in MRS was higher than in MNA and the most susceptible samples were A1D28 and A3D42. In turn, A3D42 showed the highest tolerance to bile salts in MRS and MNA. Moreover, all bacterial consortia showed optimal growth at pH 5, 5.5, 6 and 7 in both media, while their temperature tolerance was higher in MRS. The antagonistic activity of bacterial consortia in MNA was higher than in MRS with A2D42 showing the best antagonistic activity for Pseudomona aureginosa (ATCC 9027) and Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) in MNA. Additionally, A1D42 and A2D42 in MRS and A3D42 in MNA had significant adhesion to mucins, and A1D42 in MRS had the highest. Regarding their species composition, all bacterial consortia in MRS belonged to the phylum Firmicutes, and the class Bacilli and bacterial consortia in MNA belonged to three phyla; Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes. Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus fermentum, and Lactobacillus johnsonii were identified in all bacterial consortia in MRS broth. Based on these results, A1D42 and A3D42 grown in MRS showed the best potential as probiotics for calves, which could result in health benefits and improve their production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mortality of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) disease is very high among the elderly or individuals having comorbidities such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, lung infections, hypertension, and/or diabetes. Our study characterizes the metagenomic features in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2)‐infected patients with or without type 2 diabetes, to identify the microbial interactions associated with its fatal consequences.This study compared the baseline nasopharyngeal microbiome of SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected diabetic and nondiabetic patients with controls adjusted for age and gender. The metagenomics based on next‐generation sequencing was performed using Ion GeneStudio S5 Series and the data were analyzed by the Vegan‐package in R. All three groups possessed significant bacterial diversity and dissimilarity indexes (p < 0.05). Spearman's correlation coefficient network analysis illustrated 183 significant positive correlations and 13 negative correlations of pathogenic bacteria (r = 0.6–1.0, p < 0.05), and 109 positive correlations between normal flora and probiotic bacteria (r > 0.6, p < 0.05). The SARS‐CoV‐2 diabetic group exhibited a significant increase in pathogens and secondary infection‐causing bacteria (p < 0.05) with a simultaneous decrease of normal flora (p < 0.05). The dysbiosis of the bacterial community might be linked with severe consequences of COVID‐19‐infected diabetic patients, although a few probiotic strains inhibited numerous pathogens in the same pathological niches. This study suggested that the promotion of normal flora and probiotics through dietary supplementation and excessive inflammation reduction by preventing secondary infections might lead to a better outcome for those comorbid patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Probiotics are primarily made into microecologic products for use in the food and feed industries. The freeze‐drying technique is widely used in their preparation to maintain their high level of bioactivity. This causes high costs in terms of the energy and time needed. In this study, we developed a method to produce a highly active microecologic product from Lactobacillus rhamnosus using heating and silica. Results: A microecologic product was made successfully from L. rhamnosus using the whole bacterial culture broth, without waste, and using food‐grade silica (4.5 mL g−1) to absorb water before drying at 37 °C for 8 h. The activity of L. rhamnosus cells was increased significantly by adding water extracts of green tea to the culture medium. The viable amount of L. rhamnosus in the obtained microecologic product was 9.80 × 1010 cfu g−1 with a survival rate of 224.67% in simulated gastric juice for 3 h and 68.2% in simulated intestinal juice for 3 h. The microecologic product treated an intestinal infection by multi‐drug‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus in mice very efficiently. Conclusion: The study developed an economic, eco‐friendly, and efficient method for preparing highly active microecologic agents using heating and without waste. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by Lactobacillus and other probiotics are associated with many benefits, such as immune regulation, antioxidant properties, antitumor effect, and regulation of intestinal microbe homeostasis. In the present study, the modulatory effect of EPS produced by Lactobacillus rhamnosus ZFM231 on the intestinal flora of mice with inflammatory bowel disease induced by dextran sulfate solution was investigated. RESULTS: Results indicated that weight loss, colonic length, the disease activity index score and colonic tissue damage in mice were significantly improved by EPS treatment. Compared with the model group, in the EPS‐treated group, the diversity of and the composition of gut microbiota at both phylum and genus levels were found to recover to the levels of normal group, indicating the effective modulation on gut microbiota by EPS; short‐chain fatty acids, including acetic acid, propionic acid and butyric acid produced by intestinal microbial metabolism, increased significantly; the level of anti‐inflammatory factor transforning growth factor‐β significantly increased and the level of pro‐inflammatory factor tumor necrosis factor‐α significantly decreased in the colonic cells of EPS‐treated mice. CONCLUSION: It is clear that EPS produced by L. rhamnosus ZFM231 could find application in functional foods with the property of anti‐ulcerative colitis. The experimental results provide new insights into the probiotic effect of EPS. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional fermented products and human intestines are rich sources of Lactobacillus strains which may have remarkable probiotic properties. In the present study, the probiotic properties of 40 Lactobacillus strains isolated from intestinal tracts of longevity population and traditional fermented food in China were determined, including the survival rates in simulated gastric acid and bile salt, aggregation, hydrophobicity, adhesion rate, antioxidant ability (ferric reducing antioxidant power), and antimicrobial ability. The differences between human strains and nonhuman strains were compared via t‐test and principal component analysis (PCA). The significant differences were found in the survival rate at 0.3% bile salt, adhesion ability of the strains, and antioxidant ability of the fermentation broth (p <.05). The results of PCA showed that the first principal component (PC1) score of human strains was significantly higher than that of nonhuman strains (p <.01). And some probiotic Lactobacillus were selected for further application based on the unsupervised clustering algorithm, heat‐map analysis, and K‐means algorithm. Four strains, CS128, CS39, CS01, and CS1301, along with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) were divided into cluster I. The four strains, all isolated from human tracts, have been selected. Thus, human Lactobacillus has better probiotic potential and application prospects than strains from the nonhuman source. PCA, the unsupervised clustering algorithm, and heat‐map analysis can be used to analyze and select Lactobacillus visually and effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study aims to evaluate the prebiotic potential of selected fruit peels (watermelon, pineapple and banana) by studying their effects on growth of probiotic organisms as indicated by viable counts. The effect on probiotic growth was examined using different strains, namely Lactobacillus rhamnosus, L. plantarum and Bifidobacterium bifidum. The growth for L. plantarum and L. rhamnosus in pineapple peel extract (PPE) showed the maximum value of 8.27 and 7.53 log CFU/mL respectively, after 24 h incubation. The study also revealed that PPE contained the highest amounts of indigestible polysaccharides 351.13 mg/g as compared to other peels. The major reducing sugar consisted of glucose and fructose with a total amount of 442.75, 326.05 and 354.14 mg/g in dried peel extract from pineapple, watermelon and banana respectively. Pineapple and banana peel extract exhibited maximum hydrolysis of 9.21% and 8.74% and 32.95% and 30.63% when treated with gastric juice and α‐amylase. This investigation demonstrated that watermelon, pineapple and banana peel extract could be effectively used as prebiotics to improve the growth of beneficial microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Cadmium is a non‐biodegradable heavy metal with a long biological half‐life. Although its negative impact on human health has been previously reported, the association of cadmium consumption overdose with changes in the gut microbiota and its corresponding metabolites has not been fully elucidated so far. RESULTS: Cadmium consumption overdose led to a reduced body weight gain accompanied by an enhanced level of the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐6, and histamine in the serum of the rats in comparison with normal rats. Furthermore, hepatotoxicity was also observed to be induced by cadmium, which was consistent with abnormal hepatic activities of alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase and oxidative stress. In contrast, Lactobacillus rhamnosus‐fermented Ganoderma lucidum (FGL) slice supplementation improved the aforementioned physiological properties. More importantly, microbiome and metabolites analysis indicated cadmium exposure significantly reduced the generation of short‐chain fatty acids in the gut, particularly butyrate. However, rats in the FGL group had the highest level of butyrate in the feces, characterized with significantly enriched probiotics (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) and butyrate‐producing bacteria (Roseburia). CONCLUSION: The targeted regulation of the gut microbial community and its metabolites might be the essential association for attenuating body dysfunction induced by cadmium. The supplementation of FGL, as evidenced in this study, might highlight a novel approach to this field. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate the mechanism of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)‐secreted protein, P75, on the regulation of the expression of serotonin transporter (SERT) through the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) pathway. Methods: Caco‐2 cells were stimulated with LGG supernatant (LGG‐super), protein P75, AG1478, and TNF‐α. A rat model of post‐infectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI‐IBS) was constructed and treated with phosphate‐buffered saline and LGG‐super for 4 weeks. The levels of SERT, p‐EGFR, EGFR, p‐NF‐κB, NF‐κB, p‐IκB‐α, and IκB‐α were detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, immunofluorescence, and immunochemistry. Luciferase assay was used to verify the link between NF‐κB and SERT promoter. Results: LGG‐super and P75 upregulated the expression levels of SERT and p‐EGFR and decreased the expression levels of p‐IκB‐α and p‐NF‐κB. Dual luciferase assay result suggested that NF‐κB inhibited the activity of SERT promoter. In the animal experiments, 5‐HT concentration increased in the PI‐IBS Model group but decreased in the Model +LGG‐super group compared with the control. On the contrary, the expression of SERT protein was downregulated in the PI‐IBS Model group and improved in the Model +LGG‐super group. The expression of p‐EGFR was reduced and p‐NF‐κB was enhanced in the PI‐IBS Model group, whereas the expression of p‐EGFR and p‐NF‐κB was the opposite in the Model +LGG‐super group. Conclusion: LGG supernatant and its secreted protein, P75, upregulate the expression of SERT by activating EGFR and inhibiting the NF‐κB pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dysbiosis of gastric microbiota including Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is associated with the development of stomach cancer. Probiotics have been shown to attenuate H. pylori‐induced gastritis, although their role in cancer prevention remains unclear. Thus, we aimed to explore the effects of probiotics on H. pylori‐induced carcinogenesis and the alterations of gastrointestinal microbiota. Methods: Male INS‐GAS mice were randomly allocated to H. pylori‐infected and non‐infected groups. After 4 weeks, probiotic combination (containing Lactobacillus salivarius and Lactobacillus rhamnosus) was administered in drinking water for 12 weeks. Stomachs were collected for RNA‐Sequencing and the differentially expressed genes were validated using RT profiler PCR array. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed to assess the alterations of gastrointestinal microbiota. Results: Probiotics significantly alleviate H. pylori‐induced gastric pathology, including reduced infiltration of inflammation and lower incidence of precancerous lesions. RNA‐Sequencing results showed that probiotics treatment decreased expressions of genes involved in pro‐inflammatory pathways, such as NF‐κB, IL‐17, and TNF signaling pathway. Of note, probiotics did not suppress the growth of H. pylori, but dramatically reshaped the structure of both gastric and gut microbiota. The microbial diversity was increased in H. pylori‐infected group after probiotics treatment. While gastric cancer‐associated genera Lactobacillus and Staphylococcus were enriched in the stomach of H. pylori‐infected group, the beneficial short‐chain fatty acids‐producing bacteria, including Bacteroides, Alloprevotella, and Oscellibacter, were more abundant in mice treated with probiotics. Additionally, probiotics restored the H. pylori‐induced reduction of anti‐inflammatory bacterium Faecalibaculum in the gut. Conclusions: Probiotics therapy can protect against H. pylori‐associated carcinogenesis probably through remodeling gastrointestinal microbiota, which in turn prevent host cells from malignant transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cholestatic drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) induced by drugs or other xenobiotics is a severe and even fatal clinical syndrome. Here, living materials of hierarchy‐assembled dual probiotics system are fabricated by sequentially encapsulating probiotic Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus (LDB) and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) into Ca2+‐complexed polymer microspheres for effective prevention of cholestatic DILI. Upon entering intestinal tract of the constructed living materials, LGG is released because of pH‐triggered dissolution of outer enteric polymer coating. The released LGG can inhibit hepatic bile acids (BAs) synthesis by activating intestinal farnesoid X receptor‐fibroblast growth factor 15（FGF‐15) signaling pathway. BAs excretion is also facilitated by LGG through increasing the abundance of bile salt hydrolase (BSH)‐active gut commensal bacteria. Furthermore, exposed positively‐charged chitosan shell can absorb the excessive BAs via electrostatic interaction, which leads to steady BAs fixation by the imprisoned LDB, decreasing the total BAs amounts in enterohepatic circulation. Together, the fabricated living materials, obtained here, can effectively prevent cholestatic DILI through dredging cholestasis via gut‐liver axis modulation. The therapeutic effect is demonstrated in α‐naphthylisothiocyanate and clinical antiepileptic drug valproate acid‐induced cholestatic DILI mouse models, which reveal the great potential for effective cholestatic DILI management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Probiotics have a beneficial effect on inflammatory responses and immune regulation, via Janus kinase/signal transduction and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) and NF‐κB signaling pathways. To evaluate the precise effects of Lactobacillus spp. as a protective and therapeutic agent, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of Lactobacillus spp. in modulating JAK/STAT and nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) inflammatory signaling pathways. Methods: A quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay was used to analyze the expression of JAK/STAT and inflammatory genes (TIR‑associated Protein [TIRAP], Interleukin 1 Receptor Associated Kinase[IRAK4], Nuclear factor‐kappa B Essential Modulator [NEMO], and receptor interacting protein [RIP]) followed by treatment of the HT‐29 cell line with sonicated pathogens before, after, and simultaneously with Lactobacillus spp. A cytokine assay was also used to evaluate interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐1β production after treatment with Lactobacillus spp. Results: Lactobacillus spp. downregulated JAK and TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO, and RIP genes in the NF‐κB pathway compared to sonicate‐treated cells. The expression of STAT genes was different after treatment with probiotics. The production of IL‐6 and IL‐1β decreased after probiotic treatment. Conclusions: Our Lactobacillus spp. cocktail showed anti‐inflammatory effects on HT‐29 cells by modulating JAK/STAT and NF‐κB signaling pathways in all three treatment variants. Therefore, Lactobacillus spp. as a dietary supplement can both prevent and reduce inflammation‐related diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, 10 different traditional Iranian cheeses, which are still consumed by people in rural areas of Iran, were examined to isolate new strains of probiotic bacteria. Isolated bacteria were identified by 16s rRNA gene amplification and subjected to series of in vitro tests to find out their probiotic potential. A total of 2345 colonies were collected and 465 of them were confirmed as lactic acid bacteria (LAB), of which Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, and Lacticaseibacillus casei were the top three isolated bacteria. Among the different species of LAB isolated in this study, Lactip. plantarum was the most isolated species, and seven isolates had the significant criteria for being a probiotic strain than other isolates indicating the most adaptable properties of this species. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum was the most resistant bacteria in the bile resistance test and was also the most durable bacteria in gastrointestinal conditions, for example, acidic environment (pH = 2.5) and trypsin. In contrast, Lacticaseibacillus casei was the most susceptible bacterial strain. Lactobacillus rhamnosus showed the most antibacterial effect against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This study showed that probiotic strains isolated from local cheeses could be considered as suitable biopreservatives and used as specific starter cultures for the production of functional cheeses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a 43‐year‐old woman, with a history of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis and a chronic bronchocoele, who was admitted to hospital with an infection of the bronchocoele, progressing to a pulmonary abscess and polymicrobial empyema, following dental extraction and regular Lactobacillus probiotic ingestion. Interval chest imaging following this procedure demonstrated worsening right upper lobe opacities and a right‐sided pleural effusion. Bronchoscopies identified copious mucoid secretions and an infected bronchocoele with a right upper lobe airways impaction. Oral cavity organisms including Actinomyces odontolyticus were cultured on bronchial washings. Streptococcus mitis and Lactobacillus rhamnosus were cultured in pleural fluid. Treatment with endoscopic mucoid secretion suctioning; intercostal catheter insertion and therapeutic drainage; and antibiotic, glucocorticoid and anti‐IgE therapy resulted in clinical and radiological improvement. Our case illustrates the potential pulmonary complications from oral cavity organisms following tooth extraction and probiotic use in patients with chronic lung disease associated with mucoid lesions and airways obstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Topical probiotics have been suggested as a treatment option for allergic rhinitis, as they may skew the immune response towards a beneficial type‐1 non‐allergic profile. So far observations in man have exclusively involved oral intake. The aim of this study was to examine whether a topical/nasal administration of a probiotic assemblage (PA) affects quality of life, symptoms and signs of allergic rhinitis in a nasal allergen challenge (NAC) model. Methods: In a placebo‐controlled and crossover design, 24 patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis were randomised to topical/nasal administration with a PA of Lactobacillus rhamnosus SP1, Lactobacillus paracasei 101/37 and Lactococcus lactis L1A or placebo for 3 weeks. Participants and investigators were blind to treatment allocation. The last week of each treatment period was combined with a NAC series. Efficacy variables were "Mini‐Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire" (Mini‐RQLQ), "Total Nasal Symptom Score" (TNSS), "Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow" (PNIF) and "Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide" (FeNO). In addition, to assess whether or not the PA produced any pro‐inflammatory effect per se, soluble analytes were monitored in nasal lavage fluids. Finally, bacterial cultures, sampled using swabs from the middle nasal meatus, were assessed for the presence of the PA by MALDI‐TOF analysis. Results: Administration of the PA did not produce any nasal symptoms (cf. placebo). An innate immune response was discerned within the PA run (cf. baseline), but no change in nasal lavage fluid levels of cytokines/mediators was observed cf. placebo except for IL‐17/IL‐17A (a minor increase in the PA run). Administration of the PA did neither affect Mini‐RQLQ, TNSS, PNIF nor FeNO. No evidence of persistent colonization was observed. Conclusions: Topical/nasal administration of a PA comprising Lactobacillus rhamnosus SP1, Lactobacillus paracasei 101/37 and Lactococcus lactis L1A, while likely evoking a minor innate immune response yet being safe, does not affect quality of life, symptoms or signs of allergic rhinitis. Trial registration: not registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]