Search Results (260)

Background/Objectives: Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by small intestinal enteropathy triggered by gluten ingestion, often associated with gut dysbiosis. The most effective treatment is strict adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD), which alleviates symptoms. This study uniquely integrates taxonomic, functional, and resistance profiling to evaluate the gut microbiota of women with CD on a GFD. Methods: To evaluate the long-term impact of a GFD, this study analyzed the gut microbiota of 10 women with CD on a GFD for over a year compared to 10 healthy controls with unrestricted diets. Taxonomic diversity (16S rRNA gene sequencing and the analysis of α and β-diversity), metabolic functionality (Biolog EcoPlates^®), and antibiotic resistance profiles (Cenoantibiogram) were assessed. Results: Metagenomic analysis revealed no significant differences in taxonomic diversity but highlighted variations in the abundance of specific bacterial genera. Women with CD showed increased proportions of Bacteroides, Streptococcus, and Clostridium, associated with inflammation, but also elevated levels of beneficial genera such as Roseburia, Oxalobacter, and Paraprevotella. Despite no significant differences in metabolic diversity, higher minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) in women in the healthy control group suggest that dietary substrates in unrestricted diets may promote the proliferation of fast-growing bacteria capable of rapidly developing and disseminating antibiotic resistance mechanisms. Conclusions: These findings indicate that prolonged adherence to a GFD in CD supports remission of gut dysbiosis, enhances microbiota functionality, and may reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance, emphasizing the importance of dietary management in CD. Full article

Objective: To investigate the effects of oat fiber on animal constipation and elucidate its underlying mechanisms. Methods: Male BALB/c mice were randomly allocated into five groups: control group (CON), model control group (MODEL), low dose group (LOW), middle dose group (MIDDLE), high dose group (HIGH). Constipation was induced in the mice by intragastric administration of loperamide. Subsequently, the mice (except those in the CON and MODEL groups) were administered oat fiber intragastrically for 21 consecutive days. Results: Compared with the MODEL group, oat fiber significantly increased the number of fecal pellets, fecal wet weight, and fecal water content (p < 0.05), shortened the time to first black stool excretion (p < 0.05), and enhanced the small intestinal propulsion rate in constipated mice. Additionally, oat fiber significantly upregulated motilin (MTL) and gastrin (GAS) levels (p < 0.05), while downregulating vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and somatostatin (SS) levels (p < 0.05). It also significantly reduced the transcription level of Aquaporin 8 (AQP8) (p < 0.05), effectively alleviating intestinal mucosal injury and immune inflammation. The relative expression levels of TNF-α and IL-1β were significantly decreased in the oat fiber group (p < 0.05). Gut microbiota analysis revealed that oat fiber increased both the abundance and diversity of gut microbiota in constipated mice. Specifically, oat fiber was found to enhance the relative abundance of Firmicutes while reducing that of Bacteroidetes. At the genus level, it promoted the proliferation of Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group and Roseburia. Conclusions: Oat fiber alleviates constipation in mice by modulating gastrointestinal regulatory peptides, gut microbiota, aquaporin and mitigating intestinal barrier damage and immune-inflammatory responses. Full article

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery induces profound gut microbiota alterations that may impact metabolic outcomes. This study investigated site-specific effects of a multicomponent bovine colostrum-honey-serviceberry (CHJ) complex on post-RYGB microbiome changes in obese rats. Twenty-nine Wistar rats underwent RYGB surgery with CHJ supplementation, followed by mucosal-associated microbiota analysis from five gastrointestinal segments using 16S rRNA sequencing and serum metabolite profiling. RYGB caused regional-specific changes: decreased alpha diversity, systematic Proteobacteria increases (31.2 ± 5.1% in duodenum), and reductions in SCFA-producing bacteria (Romboutsia, Roseburia). CHJ supplementation exhibited dual effects on the microbiome: restoration of beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) in distal segments while concurrently promoting Enterobacteriaceae growth in proximal regions. CHJ also maintained alpha diversity levels of the mucosa-associated microbiota comparable to those observed in the control group. Disconnects emerged between predicted microbial functions and systemic metabolites: thiamine pathway activation accompanied 78.5% serum vitamin B1 reduction, indicating severe absorption deficits. Three distinct patterns emerged: pro-inflammatory (proximal), decolonization (widespread Helicobacteraceae loss), and restorative (selective CHJ-mediated recovery). Results demonstrate that post-RYGB dysbiosis exhibits profound regional heterogeneity requiring segment-specific interventions and highlight complex interactions between nutritional supplementation and surgically altered gut ecology in determining metabolic outcomes. Full article

Disruption of the microbiota resulting in pathogenicity is known as dysbiosis and is key in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. The microbiome of patients with IBD is characterized by depletion of commensal bacteria, in particular Bacteroidetes and the Lachnospiraceae subgroup of Firmicutes, and by the concomitant increase in Proteobacteria and the Bacillus subgroup of Firmicutes. These changes reflect a decrease in microbial diversity with a concomitant decrease in health-promoting bacteria like Faecalibacterium and Roseburia. Treatment with biologic agents has changed the natural course of disease, improving patient outcomes. Changes in gut microbiota occur under treatment with biologic agents and act towards reversal of dysbiosis. These changes are more striking in patients achieving remission and specific gut microbiota signatures may be predictive of treatment response and a step towards precision medicine, since, despite advances in medical treatment, some patients are at risk of surgery and subsequent complications such as anastomotic leakage. This review summarizes current available evidence on the interplay of gut microbiota and biologic agents, surgery, and surgical complications in patients with IBD. Full article

Many studies have focused on ageing and gut microbiota, but the correlation between gut microbiota and physical function in older adults, especially those with longevity, remains obscure and deserves further exploration. In this study we investigated changes in the gut microbiota and the association between gut microbiota and physical function in adults with longevity. This is a prospective observational study. Fifty-one older adults aged ≥ 60 years (including 27 participants aged 90 years and above) were enrolled. Information on clinical data, physical function including intrinsic capacity by Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) tool, and dietary habits of participants was collected and analysed. Gut microbiota structure and functional pathways were analysed by Metagenomics. Intrinsic capacity (measured as ICOPE scores) of adults’ longevity (aged 90–98, longe group) was significantly lower than older adults aged 60–89 years (CON group) (5.44 ± 2.15 vs. 6.71 ± 1.46, p = 0.017). Gut microbiota of the longe group is enriched in Akkermansia and Bifidobacterium, which may be beneficial to health. Gut microbiota was closely related to daily milk (including plain milk, flavoured milk with a content of cow’s milk or reconstituted milk of ≥80%, or reconstituted milk or fermented milk with a content of cow’s milk or milk powder of ≥80%) consumption, anxiety, and physical function including grip strength by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Bacteroides plebeius and Bacteroides eggerthii were increased in long-living adults with better physical function. Escherichia coli was more abundant in frail young-old adults. Grip strength is positively correlated with the abundance of Roseburia hominis, Eubacterium rectale, Eubacterium eligens, and Roseburia intestinalis (p < 0.05). Pathways related to amino acid synthesis that include L-isoleucine, L-valine, and L-threonine were over-presented in long-living adults of better physical function. Adults with longevity showed comparable gut microbiota abundance to younger elderly individuals. The gut microbiota of long-living adults showed higher abundance of potentially beneficial bacteria, and the altered bacteria are closely associated with physical function. Changes in the gut microbiota may precede clinical indicators during the process of ageing. Gut microbiota may be a potential biomarker for longevity and healthy ageing. Nutrition and emotional state can be important influencing factors. Full article

Background: The prevalence of diabetes increases with age, and food bioactive compounds have shown potential in mitigating its development. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of curcumin in preventing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in older adults with prediabetes. We hypothesized that curcumin, due to its insulin-sensitizing effects, would help maintain glucose homeostasis, metabolic health, and gut health. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial included 28 older adults (aged 60 years or older) with prediabetes or overweight/obesity. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either curcumin (80 mg) or placebo capsules for 12 weeks. The primary outcome measures were glucose homeostasis markers, including hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), blood glucose, and insulin levels. Secondary outcomes included body composition, body mass index (BMI), body weight, lipid profiles, and gut microbiome composition. Data normality was assessed using the Shapiro–Wilk test, and two-way repeated-measures ANOVA with multiple comparisons was used to find differences between groups and over time. Results: A total of 23 participants (age = 66.52 ± 5.76 years; 14 in the curcumin group and 9 in the placebo group) completed the 12-week intervention. HbA1c levels significantly decreased in the curcumin group, whereas levels remained stable in the placebo group. While the curcumin group observed an increase in AST levels, the ALT level was reduced in the placebo group. Both the curcumin and placebo groups showed a reduced ALT/AST ratio by the end of the intervention. Body mass index, lipid profiles, and body composition showed no significant changes over the study period. Gut microbiome analysis revealed no significant changes in alpha diversity or beta diversity of microbiome; however, there was marginal enrichment of beneficial bacteria such as Bacteroidota (phylum), Bacteroidaceae (family), Agathobacter, Bacteroides, and Roseburia (genera) in the curcumin-supplemented group over time. Conclusions: Curcumin supplementation improved or favorably maintained glucose homeostasis and showed modest improvements in beneficial gut microbiota in older adults with prediabetes, potentially reducing the risk of developing diabetes. Long-term studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these findings and determine the clinical relevance of curcumin supplementation for prediabetes prevention. Full article

The association of gut microbiota with lymph node tuberculosis (LNTB) remains unexplored. This study employed metagenomic sequencing and plasma metabolomics analyses to investigate the role of gut microbiota in LNTB patients. Significant alterations in gut microbial diversity were observed in LNTB patients, characterized by a notable reduction in bacterial taxa involved in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) synthesis, including Ruminococcus, Faecalibacterium, Roseburia, and Blautia, compared to healthy individuals. KEGG pathway analysis further revealed that gut dysbiosis could negatively impact SCFA biosynthesis and metabolism. Plasma metabolomics demonstrated disruptions in metabolites associated with SCFA synthesis and inflammation pathways in the LNTB group. Integrated analysis indicated significant correlations between specific gut microbiota (Blautia, Butyricicoccus, Coprococcus, Ruminococcus, Bacteroides, Clostridium) and plasma metabolites, including α-benzylbutyric acid, acetic acid, and succinic acid. Our findings demonstrate that gut microbiota dysbiosis and related metabolic dysfunction significantly reduce SCFA production in LNTB patients, potentially identifying novel therapeutic targets for LNTB management. Full article

Background and Objectives: Rectal cancer management increasingly relies on watch-and-wait strategies after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT). Accurate, non-invasive prediction of pathological complete response (pCR) remains elusive. Emerging evidence suggests that gut-microbiome composition modulates radio-chemosensitivity. We systematically reviewed primary studies that correlated baseline or on-treatment gut-microbiome features with nCRT response in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). Methods: MEDLINE, Embase and PubMed were searched from inception to 30 April 2025. Eligibility required (i) prospective or retrospective human studies of LARC, (ii) faecal or mucosal microbiome profiling by 16S, metagenomics, or metatranscriptomics, and (iii) response assessment using tumour-regression grade or pCR. Narrative synthesis and random-effects proportion meta-analysis were performed where data were homogeneous. Results: Twelve studies (n = 1354 unique patients, median sample = 73, range 22–735) met inclusion. Four independent machine-learning models achieved an Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve AUROC ≥ 0.85 for pCR prediction. Consistently enriched taxa in responders included Lachnospiraceae bacterium, Blautia wexlerae, Roseburia spp., and Intestinimonas butyriciproducens. Non-responders showed over-representation of Fusobacterium nucleatum, Bacteroides fragilis, and Prevotella spp. Two studies linked butyrate-producing modules to radiosensitivity, whereas nucleotide-biosynthesis pathways conferred resistance. Pooled pCR rate in patients with a “butyrate-rich” baseline profile was 44% (95% CI 35–54) versus 21% (95% CI 15–29) in controls (I² = 18%). Conclusions: Despite heterogeneity, convergent functional and taxonomic signals underpin a microbiome-based radiosensitivity axis in LARC. Multi-centre validation cohorts and intervention trials manipulating these taxa, such as prebiotics or live-biotherapeutics, are warranted before clinical deployment. Full article

Natural products play a pivotal role in human health by exerting bioactive effects, including the modulation of the gut microbiome. Cacao, a widely consumed natural product, is rich in polyphenols and dietary fiber, which may influence microbial composition and metabolic functions. However, its effects on the gut microbiota remain poorly understood, particularly regarding inter-individual differences. This study investigated the impact of cacao on gut microbiota using an in vitro fecal incubation model with samples from healthy Korean adults. Our findings classified the gut microbiota of Korean individuals into two distinct enterotypes: Bacteroides and Prevotella. In the Bacteroides enterotype, cacao treatment significantly increased the relative abundance of beneficial bacterial genera, including Roseburia, Lachnospiraceae NK4A136, Faecalibacterium, and Agathobacter. Conversely, in the Prevotella enterotype, cacao treatment was associated with an increase in the relative abundance of Prevotella; however, the small sample size and community shifts during incubation limited the robustness of this observation. Functional predictions based on KEGG pathways further revealed enterotype-specific differences. In the Bacteroides enterotype, the cacao-treated group exhibited enhanced pathways associated with starch, sucrose, galactose, and thiamine metabolism, which was not observed in the Prevotella enterotype. These findings suggest a potential role for cacao as a gut microbiome modulator, highlighting its possible utility in microbiome-targeted dietary interventions and therapeutic strategies. Full article

In recent years, the gut microbiome has been recognized as one influential factor in cancer development. Particularly in colorectal cancer (CRC), several studies observed a major imbalance of the intestinal microbiota, marked by a reduction in beneficial bacterial species, such as Roseburia intestinalis, and an increase in opportunistic pathobionts, like Peptostreptococcus stomatis. We previously observed that specific Eubacteriales, including R. intestinalis, were significantly reduced in CRC patients and have a potent anti-tumor immune effect when applied as oral monotherapy in mice. Here, we investigate the molecular mechanism of R. intestinalis on various cell types in vitro, highlighting its potential therapeutic value in CRC. Co-culture experiments with macrophages demonstrated that R. intestinalis exposure induced an increase in the M1 phenotype and decreased the M2 phenotype, suggesting macrophage-polarizing properties of these bacteria. R. intestinalis also triggered a gene expression profile resembling M1 macrophages and led to distinct chemokine and cytokine secretion in cancer cells, suggesting an immune-activating environment. However, we did not observe direct cytotoxic effects in cancer cells. Our research provides insights into the potential of R. intestinalis to activate immune responses, supporting further investigation into its therapeutic role in CRC. These findings underscore the need for deeper studies on the bacterium’s impact on CRC pathogenesis and treatment. Full article

In order to protect endangered species, many zoos adopt diverse rearing models to achieve optimal conservation outcomes. This study employed metagenomic approaches to assess differences in the fecal microbiome of captive and semi-free-ranging ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta). The results show that captivity significantly altered the microbial community structure. The inter-individual variability in the microbial community within the captive-bred (CB) group was lower than that in the semi-free-ranging (FR) group, yet these individuals harbored a higher abundance of potential pathogens (Treponema_D). In contrast, microbial genera associated with fiber degradation and short-chain fatty acid production in the FR group were significantly elevated (Faecalibacterium, Roseburia, and Megamonas) as compared to the CB group. Environmental variations between the two rearing systems led to distinct profiles in microbial functions and carbohydrate-active enzyme gene composition. Notably, the FR group of lemurs exhibited an increased abundance of enzyme genes associated with the degradation of complex polysaccharides (cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin), suggesting that their diet, rich in natural plant fibers, enhances the capacity of their gut microbiota to extract essential energy and nutrients. Conversely, the CB group displayed a more homogeneous microbial community with a higher prevalence of potential pathogens, implying that a captive lifestyle may negatively impact gastrointestinal health. These findings offer valuable insights into the influence of rearing conditions on gut microbial ecology and its potential implications for the health management of ring-tailed lemurs. Full article

Background: Gut microbiome composition may influence the risk of intracranial aneurysm rupture. Methods: This study analyzed the gut microbiota of 48 patients—24 with ruptured aneurysms (RA) and 24 with unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIA)—using next-generation sequencing. Results: While alpha diversity was similar between groups, beta diversity revealed significant taxonomic differences (Bray–Curtis: p = 0.02; unweighted UniFrac: p = 0.0291). Both groups were dominated by the phyla Bacillota, Bacteroidota, and Proteobacteria, but genus- and family-level differences were observed. RA patients showed higher abundances of Anaerotruncus, Coprobacillus, Sellimonas, Hungatella, and Ruthenibacterium, whereas UIA patients exhibited greater levels of Faecalibacterium, Brotolimicola, Clostridiaceae, Roseburia, and Agathobaculum. Linear discriminant analysis identified one class, 10 genera, and 17 species that differed significantly between groups. Notably, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Agathobaculum butyriciproducens—bacteria known for their anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties—were enriched in UIA patients. Conclusions: These findings suggest that gut microbiota, particularly short-chain fatty acid–producing bacteria, may contribute to vascular protection and aneurysm pathophysiology. Microbiome-based therapeutic strategies could offer new avenues for the prevention of cerebrovascular disease. Full article

Acrylamide (AA) and nanoplastics (NPs) are common food toxicants. However, their combined toxicity and health risks call for further studies. This study aimed to investigate the combined toxicity of AA and polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) in mice through drinking water exposure. Co-exposure to AA and PS-NPs aggravated colon and liver damage, including more severe inflammatory infiltration, higher levels of colonic and hepatic pro-inflammatory cytokines, and elevated serum content of lipopolysaccharide and activities of diamine oxidase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase compared to single exposures. Co-exposure also significantly downregulated the expression of colonic tight-junction genes ZO-1 and Claudin-5. Metabolomics revealed that co-exposure induced more profound metabolic disorders in the liver, particularly affecting amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism. 16S amplicon sequencing showed that co-exposure caused more drastic gut microbiota dysbiosis, characterized by a decrease in beneficial bacteria (unclassified_f__Oscillospiraceae, Roseburia, UCG-005, Ruminiclostridium, unclassified_o__Clostridia_UCG-014, Fournierella, and Acetatifactor) and an increase in pathogenic bacteria (Eubacterium_xylanophilum_group and Eubacterium_nodatum_group). Correlation analysis indicated a negative correlation between beneficial bacteria and intestinal-liver toxicity indicators and a positive correlation between pathogenic bacteria and these indicators. Overall, our findings showed that AA and PS-NPs exerted synergistic toxicity to the gut–liver axis in mammals, highlighting the higher health risks of their combined ingestion. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing disease severity and progression. Emerging research indicates that the human microbiota, particularly beneficial bacteria, significantly impacts immune responses and health outcomes in COVID-19 patients. While existing studies provide general insights into the relationship between the microbiota and probiotics with COVID-19, they often lack a detailed exploration of how specific bacterial taxa might be used as adjunctive treatments. This review aims to address this gap by focusing on ten key genera of beneficial bacteria, discussing their roles in COVID-19 and evaluating their potential as probiotics for prevention and treatment. The review covers the impact of these microbes on human health, their population alterations in COVID-19 patients, and their interactions with other viral infections. Among these microbes, several exhibit distinct patterns of abundance in COVID-19 patients, influencing disease outcomes and highlighting their potential roles in infection dynamics. In COVID-19 patients, populations of Akkermansia, Ruminococcus, and Roseburia are consistently reduced, while those of Faecalibacterium show a significant decline in more severe cases. Bacteroides presents varying effects depending on the species involved. Alterations in the abundance of Blautia and Lachnospiraceae are associated with increased inflammation and disease severity. Likewise, the depletion of Lachnospira and Coprococcus populations, both linked to anti-inflammatory effects, may exacerbate symptom severity. Oscillospira, though less studied, is connected to overall health and could have implications for viral infections. This review synthesizes the current understanding of these beneficial microbes to highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy microbiota to alleviate the impact of COVID-19 and contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies involving microbiota modulation. Full article

Background/Objectives: Athletic performance matters for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Scientific dietary intervention may boost athletic performance alongside training. Intermittent fasting, like time-restricted fasting (TF), may enhance metabolic health. NAD⁺ supplement nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) improves mitochondrial activity. Both potentially boost athletic performance. However, whether TF combined with NMN treatment can further enhance athletic ability is unclear. Methods: Healthy Kunming mice were utilized to test the effects of NMN and TF on the athletic performance of mice. To simulate the in vivo state and further verify the role of TF and NMN, low glucose combined with NMN was used to intervene in C2C12 cells. The exercise capacity of mice was evaluated through motor behavior experiments. At the same time, blood gas analysis and kit tests were used to assess oxygen uptake capacity and post-exercise oxidative stress levels. Muscle development and mitochondrial function were examined through gene expression, protein analysis, and enzyme activity tests, and the distribution of intestinal microbiota and short-chain fatty acid content were also analyzed. Results: The results show that TF combined with NMN improved mitochondrial dynamics and biosynthesis, mitochondrial respiratory function, and oxidative metabolism. Then, the intervention enhanced mice’s endurance, limb strength, motor coordination, and balance and reduced oxidative damage after exercise. Moreover, TF combined with NMN significantly increased the gut microbiota diversity and upregulated Ruminococcus, Roseburia, and Akkermansia in intestinal bacteria and short-chain fatty acids, which are associated with athletic performance. Conclusion: TF combined with NMN enhanced mitochondrial function, improved energy metabolism, modulated the gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids, and affected muscle fiber transformation, ultimately leading to an overall improvement in exercise performance. These findings provide a theoretical framework for expanding the application of NMN and TF in kinesiology. Full article