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Search Results (387)

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Keywords = epithelial barrier damage

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20 pages, 1566 KB  
Review
The NLRP3 Inflammasome as a Central Driver of Mastitis Pathogenesis: A Review
by Shuaishuai Wu, Mohamed Tharwat, Ibrahim F. Halawani, Fuad M. Alzahrani, Khalid J. Alzahrani and Muhammad Zahoor Khan
Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(7), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13070609 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Mastitis remains the most economically damaging disease of dairy production, and recent molecular work has converged on the NLRP3 inflammasome as a key integrative node of its pathogenesis. This narrative review integrates evidence published largely between 2015 and 2026 to show how diverse [...] Read more.
Mastitis remains the most economically damaging disease of dairy production, and recent molecular work has converged on the NLRP3 inflammasome as a key integrative node of its pathogenesis. This narrative review integrates evidence published largely between 2015 and 2026 to show how diverse triggers—Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), heat stress, environmental xenobiotics including nanoplastics, and microbiota-derived signals—may funnel into a common NLRP3–ASC–caspase-1–GSDMD axis that drives pyroptosis, blood–milk barrier disruption, and clinical disease. The review examines the potential obligatory role of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial dysfunction, and selenoprotein-mediated redox control in licensing inflammasome assembly. It further evaluates the emerging gut–mammary and rumen–mammary axes that operate upstream of local epithelial activation. We survey a structurally diverse therapeutic landscape encompassing dietary selenium, probiotics, microbial metabolites, plant-derived nanovesicles, polyphenols, ginsenosides, and small-molecule NLRP3 antagonists, identifying recurring mechanistic motifs that suggest combinatorial regimens may yield additive benefit. Importantly, much of the evidence derives from in vitro and murine models, and we highlight the translational gaps that must be bridged before clinical application in dairy cattle. Finally, we map outstanding research gaps and propose priorities for translational work aimed at sustainable, antibiotic-sparing management of bovine mastitis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mastitis in Dairy Animals)
2 pages, 168 KB  
Abstract
Image Analysis Criteria for the Macroscopic Assessment of Skin Healing in Atlantic Salmon
by João Leça, Bruna Henriques, Filipe Soares, Cláudia Magalhães, Rui Rocha and Paulo Rema
Proceedings 2026, 146(1), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026146105 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026
Viewed by 10
Abstract
Introduction: Fish skin is the first line of defense against the aquatic environment, acting as a physical, chemical, and immunological barrier. In addition to preventing pathogen entry, the skin and its mucus contribute to osmoregulation, innate immunity, and redox balance. Skin lesions—caused by [...] Read more.
Introduction: Fish skin is the first line of defense against the aquatic environment, acting as a physical, chemical, and immunological barrier. In addition to preventing pathogen entry, the skin and its mucus contribute to osmoregulation, innate immunity, and redox balance. Skin lesions—caused by mechanical damage, parasites, environmental stress, or handling—disrupt this barrier, increasing susceptibility to infections, inflammation, and production losses. Thus, efficient skin regeneration is essential for fish welfare and performance. Nutrition plays a key role in this process by providing substrates for epithelial repair, immune function, and antioxidant defense. Among dietary factors, zinc (Zn) is particularly important due to its involvement in cell proliferation, enzymatic activity, and maintenance of skin integrity. Objective: Our objective is to assess the effectiveness of image-based analysis in quantifying the skin healing process in Atlantic salmon fed diets supplemented with zinc. Methodology: The trial comprised three dietary treatments: a control diet with 42 mg Zn per kg (D1), and two diets supplemented up to 120 mg/kg of zinc, derived from inorganic (D2) or organic (D3) forms. Pit-tagged fish with an initial body weight (78 ± 0.1 g) were fed the diets for 75 days. After 15 days of experimental feeding, a standardized wound lesion (2.5 mm diameter × 0.5 mm depth) was inflicted in deeply anesthetized fish, with a disposable biopsy punch, in the dorsal area. After wound infliction, the fish resumed their normal feeding regime for the rest of the trial days. The progression of skin wound healing was assessed using standardized digital image analysis. High-resolution photographs of individual wounds were collected 8, 16, 24 and 32 days post-wounding. All images were acquired under standardized conditions with the inclusion of ArUco identifiers to enable a subsequent computer-assisted comparison. Morphometric parameters (wound width, diameter, perimeter and area) were used to assess wound contraction and closure over time. In parallel, a semi-quantitative visual scoring system was applied to each wound image to capture qualitative aspects of healing that are not fully described by morphometric data alone. Results: Full data analysis is currently underway, but the first results show beneficial effects of dietary zinc supplementation on the skin regenerative process. Conclusions: The combined use of objective digital measurements and standardized visual scoring enabled a comprehensive evaluation of wound healing progress, bridging quantitative tissue remodeling with biologically relevant phenotypic outcomes. This image-based framework provides a sensitive and reproducible approach for assessing dietary interventions targeting skin regeneration and barrier restoration in Atlantic salmon. Full article
(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The XI Iberian Congress of Ichthyology)
68 pages, 16361 KB  
Review
Microplastics as Vectors Influencing Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Endocrine Function During Early Development
by Natalia Kurhaluk, Renata Kołodziejska, Anna Rymuszka, Rafał Bilski, Karolina Kaczorowska-Bilska, Vladimir Tomin, Piotr Kamiński and Halina Tkaczenko
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(12), 5452; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27125452 - 16 Jun 2026
Viewed by 362
Abstract
Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPLs) are increasingly recognized as dynamic vectors capable of transporting a wide range of environmental contaminants, as well as acting as physical particulates. Their small size, high surface reactivity and strong sorption capacity allow them to carry metals, pesticides, pharmaceuticals [...] Read more.
Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPLs) are increasingly recognized as dynamic vectors capable of transporting a wide range of environmental contaminants, as well as acting as physical particulates. Their small size, high surface reactivity and strong sorption capacity allow them to carry metals, pesticides, pharmaceuticals and endocrine-active compounds into biological systems. This narrative review examines how these particle-contaminant complexes influence oxidative stress, inflammatory signaling and endocrine function during early development. Relevant literature was identified through structured searches of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar, with a focus on the physicochemical properties of plastics, sorption mechanisms, gut barrier physiology and developmental toxicology. Early developmental stages are particularly sensitive, as immature mucus layers, permeable epithelial junctions and underdeveloped detoxification pathways facilitate the uptake and systemic distribution of MNPLs. Once internalized, these particles and their chemical cargo promote the generation of reactive oxygen species through redox-active contaminants, surface-catalysed reactions and mitochondrial dysfunction. The resulting oxidative imbalance activates stress-responsive pathways, including Nrf2–Keap1 signaling, and promotes lipid peroxidation, DNA damage and cellular dysfunction. MNPLs also stimulate inflammatory cascades by activating pattern-recognition receptors, altering cytokine profiles and disrupting epithelial homeostasis. These responses are intensified in the presence of sorbed pollutants, leading to sustained inflammatory states that can be particularly detrimental during organogenesis and immune maturation. Endocrine function is likewise affected, as MNPLs transport hormonally active chemicals and can interfere with hormone-responsive pathways through oxidative and inflammatory mechanisms. These interactions may disrupt thyroid signaling, metabolic regulation and the development of the reproductive axis, with potential long-term physiological consequences. Integrating evidence from polymer chemistry, contaminant behavior and developmental physiology, this review shows that MNPLs act as biologically active vectors that may increase oxidative, inflammatory and endocrine disturbances during early development. These findings highlight the importance of considering particle–contaminant interactions as a critical component of early-life risk assessment. Full article
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18 pages, 3217 KB  
Article
Bioactive Low-Molecular-Weight Fraction from Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 Attenuates Intestinal Inflammation and Dysbiosis in DSS-Treated Mice
by Luckman Gbati, María Jesús Rodríguez-Sojo, Jose Alberto Molina-Tijeras, Jorge García-García, Laura López-Escánez, Teresa Vezza, Antonio Jesús Ruiz-Malagon, Djeri Bouraïma, Federico García, Julio Gálvez, Alba Rodríguez-Nogales and María Elena Rodríguez-Cabezas
Nutrients 2026, 18(12), 1890; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18121890 - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 310
Abstract
Background: Postbiotics, including cell-free supernatants and their fractions, have emerged as a safe and effective alternative to live probiotics for managing intestinal inflammation. This study investigated the protective effects of low-molecular-weight fractions (<3 kDa) of the probiotic Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 (LMW-LF) in a [...] Read more.
Background: Postbiotics, including cell-free supernatants and their fractions, have emerged as a safe and effective alternative to live probiotics for managing intestinal inflammation. This study investigated the protective effects of low-molecular-weight fractions (<3 kDa) of the probiotic Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 (LMW-LF) in a murine model of experimental colitis. Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice were orally administered LMW-LF for 10 days prior to colitis induction with 3% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) for 5 days. Colonic damage was assessed via the Disease Activity Index (DAI), histology, and immunofluorescence (Ocln and Ki67). Immune cell populations were analyzed by flow cytometry, while mucosal gene expression and gut microbiota composition were evaluated using RT-qPCR and 16S rRNA sequencing, respectively. Results: LMW-LF administration significantly attenuated clinical symptoms and macroscopic colonic damage. Treatment restored epithelial barrier integrity by upregulating tight junction proteins (Tjp1) and mucin genes (Muc1-3) while normalizing DSS-induced epithelial hyperproliferation. Immunologically, LMW-LF reduced pro-inflammatory monocyte infiltration; downregulated Il6, Tnfa, and Ifng; and promoted an immunoregulatory phenotype by enhancing Ampk expression and partially restoring regulatory T cell (Treg) populations. Furthermore, LMW-LF reshaped the gut microbiota by increasing alpha diversity and promoting the enrichment of beneficial taxa, specifically Akkermansia muciniphila, which correlated with improved mucus layer preservation. Conclusions: LMW-LF is an active fraction acting across the host–microbiota axis. By integrating epithelial protection, immunomodulation, and microbial reshaping, it represents a promising dietary strategy for the management of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. Full article
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18 pages, 6916 KB  
Article
OV16 Improves Radiation-Induced Intestinal Injury by Targeting Transglutaminase 2
by Zhiyan Zhang, He Wang, Yaowen Cui, Yang Lu, Yingying Xu, Min Li, Sifan Liu, Ying Tian, Ziming Xia, Guangjie Zhang and Shuchen Liu
Molecules 2026, 31(11), 1983; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31111983 - 5 Jun 2026
Viewed by 353
Abstract
Irradiation (IR) can cause intestinal epithelial cell death, damage to crypt stem cells, and mucosal barrier dysfunction, which are the features of radiation-induced intestinal injury (RIII). Our study first discovered a natural small-molecule alkaloid Orychophragine D (OV16) with an obvious radiation protection effect. [...] Read more.
Irradiation (IR) can cause intestinal epithelial cell death, damage to crypt stem cells, and mucosal barrier dysfunction, which are the features of radiation-induced intestinal injury (RIII). Our study first discovered a natural small-molecule alkaloid Orychophragine D (OV16) with an obvious radiation protection effect. This study aims to investigate the radiation protection effect of OV16 on RIII and its potential molecular mechanism. The results showed that in vitro OV16 exhibited a significant protective effect on an irradiated human small intestinal epithelial cell-6 (HIEC-6) model. Then, transglutaminase 2 (TGM2), which is the key protein for OV16 to exert its anti-RIII protective effect, was identified as a crucial cellular target of OV16 using drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS), molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, cell thermal shift assay (CETSA), and microscale thermophoresis (MST). Moreover, OV16 can upregulate the expression level of TGM2 in the nucleus of HIEC-6. TGM2 can reduce radiation-induced damage by enhancing the proliferation ability and migration ability of HIEC-6 and reducing the generation of γ-H2AX. Collectively, our study first identified TGM2 as a previously unreported therapeutic target for RIII, and provided a future drug design direction for TGM2 allosteric activators using OV16 as a novel molecular template. Full article
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16 pages, 23045 KB  
Article
Sodium Humate Combined with Low-Dose Cefixime Alleviates Intestinal Injury in ETEC Infection via Inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB Pathway
by Xingyao Liu, Danning Tong, Yun Liu and Shengzi Jin
Biomolecules 2026, 16(6), 814; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16060814 - 30 May 2026
Viewed by 368
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of sodium humate (HNa) alone and in combination with low-dose cefixime (CFM) in mice infected with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). An ETEC infection mouse model was established to compare the effects of individual or combined [...] Read more.
This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of sodium humate (HNa) alone and in combination with low-dose cefixime (CFM) in mice infected with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). An ETEC infection mouse model was established to compare the effects of individual or combined interventions on physiological parameters, intestinal morphology, barrier function, levels of specific intestinal bacterial groups, cell proliferation/apoptosis, and inflammatory pathways. The results showed that the HNa + CFM combination significantly promoted body weight recovery, ameliorated damage to jejunal villus structure and ultrastructure, and increased the mRNA expression of mucins (MUC1/2/3) and tight junction proteins (ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-1) compared to the ETEC group. Concurrently, the combined treatment significantly reduced fecal E. coli counts and increased the abundance of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, promoted epithelial repair by upregulating proliferation-related genes (EGFR, PCNA, TGF-β1), and decreased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Furthermore, the combined intervention significantly reduced serum LPS levels and consequently suppressed ETEC-induced activation of the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway, as evidenced by reduced protein expression of TLR4 and MyD88, decreased phosphorylation of IκBα and p65, and diminished nuclear accumulation of NF-κB p65, leading to downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β) and elevation of IL-10. In conclusion, the combined application of HNa and low-dose CFM showed additional protective benefits against ETEC infection. These effects were associated with multi-targeted repair of the intestinal barrier, modulation of measured bacterial levels, and suppression of excessive inflammatory responses. This strategy offers a potential approach for the clinical management of bacterial enteritis and reducing antibiotic dependence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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18 pages, 13163 KB  
Article
Dendrobium huoshanense Ameliorates Sleep Deprivation-Induced Ileal Mucus Barrier Dysfunction by Regulating Steroid Hormone Biosynthesis and the HPA Axis in Rats
by Xue Luo, Shuxiang Jin, Yue Fang, Qun Zhao, Huiqun Xie and Lan Han
Metabolites 2026, 16(6), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16060376 - 30 May 2026
Viewed by 306
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Sleep deprivation (SD) induces the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the intestine, causing inflammation in the intestine, thereby damaging the intestinal epithelial barrier function. As a traditional Chinese medicine, Dendrobium huoshanense (DHS) modulates intestinal flora, maintains the intestinal mucosal [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Sleep deprivation (SD) induces the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the intestine, causing inflammation in the intestine, thereby damaging the intestinal epithelial barrier function. As a traditional Chinese medicine, Dendrobium huoshanense (DHS) modulates intestinal flora, maintains the intestinal mucosal barrier, and promotes gastrointestinal motility and digestive secretion. However, the role and mechanism of DHS in improving SD-induced intestinal injury have not been fully studied. Methods: The SD model was established by subjecting rats to complete SD using a specialised SD instrument. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was performed to evaluate pathological injury in ileal tissues. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and biochemical methods were used to quantify the main inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress markers, and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis activity. The expression levels of E-cadherin and Occludin proteins in the ileum tissue were analyzed by Western blotting. Additionally, the pH value of ileal mucus, unit secretion, water content, and dry matter weight were measured. Differential metabolites in rat ileum mucus were profiled using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). Results: DHS alleviated the pathological injury of the ileum induced by SD. DHS reduced the levels of serotonin (5-HT), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), while increasing interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels, thereby attenuating systemic inflammatory responses. Furthermore, DHS decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content and elevated glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in ileal tissues. DHS also upregulated the protein expression of E-cadherin and Occludin in intestinal tissues. In addition, DHS decreased the pH of ileal mucus, promoted intestinal mucus secretion, and increased dry matter content, facilitating the restoration of the mucus barrier. DHS may alleviate SD-induced ileal injury by modulating steroid hormone biosynthesis. DHS decreased the levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol (CORT), and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), indicating that DHS suppresses the abnormal activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. Conclusions: In this study, a comprehensive multi-index evaluation showed that DHS could significantly improve the ileal injury caused by SD in rats. The mechanism involved regulating the balance of serum neurotransmitters and inflammatory factors, reducing oxidative stress in tissues, and improving the physicochemical properties of intestinal mucus. Metabolomic analysis further revealed that these protective effects may be mediated via the regulation of steroid hormone biosynthesis pathways and are associated with the inhibition of abnormal HPA axis activation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology and Drug Metabolism)
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20 pages, 7094 KB  
Article
Garlic Polysaccharides Ameliorate AOM/DSS-Induced Colon Tumorigenesis: A Multi-Omics Mechanistic Study
by Yongqiu Qi, Xiaoming Lu, Lingyu Li, Zhenjia Zheng and Yiteng Qiao
Foods 2026, 15(11), 1901; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15111901 - 28 May 2026
Viewed by 249
Abstract
As important sources of prebiotics, natural plant polysaccharides have been widely investigated owing to their excellent anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, immunomodulatory, and gut microbiota-regulating effects. This study explored the anti-tumor effects and underlying mechanisms of garlic polysaccharides (GP-1) in a mouse model of azoxymethane/dextran sulfate [...] Read more.
As important sources of prebiotics, natural plant polysaccharides have been widely investigated owing to their excellent anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, immunomodulatory, and gut microbiota-regulating effects. This study explored the anti-tumor effects and underlying mechanisms of garlic polysaccharides (GP-1) in a mouse model of azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis-associated colon tumorigenesis. GP-1, identified as a typical fructan (molecular weight: 3583 Da) with (2→1) and (2→6) linkages, significantly improved survival rate, reduced colon tumor burden, and alleviated intestinal bleeding in tumor mice. Furthermore, intestinal damage was significantly attenuated, as evidenced by enhanced barrier integrity, downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines, and elevated antioxidant enzyme activities. GP-1 also inhibited aberrant epithelial proliferation by suppressing Ki67 protein expression. Multi-omics analyses revealed that these benefits might be associated with gut microbiota and metabolite remodeling, as well as transcriptional suppression of key inflammatory/tumorigenic pathways. Our findings highlighted the inhibitory effect of GP-1 on colon tumorigenesis and supported its potential as a gut-health-promoting functional food ingredient. Full article
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26 pages, 13397 KB  
Article
Phenyllactic Acid Restores Intestinal Epithelial Barrier to Alleviate Hypertriglyceridemic Acute Pancreatitis via a PPARγ-Dependent Mechanism
by Ze-Yun Cao, Xun Zou, Hong-Li Li, Xuan Kong, Li-Long Pan, Jun Yang and Xiao-Liang Dong
Antioxidants 2026, 15(6), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15060676 - 28 May 2026
Viewed by 223
Abstract
Hypertriglyceridemic acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP) progresses rapidly with poor prognosis. Intestinal barrier dysfunction and excessive oxidative stress contribute to its pathogenesis, but specific mediators linking gut injury, oxidative stress and pancreatic damage remain unclear. Here, we identify endogenous phenyllactic acid (PLA) as a critical [...] Read more.
Hypertriglyceridemic acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP) progresses rapidly with poor prognosis. Intestinal barrier dysfunction and excessive oxidative stress contribute to its pathogenesis, but specific mediators linking gut injury, oxidative stress and pancreatic damage remain unclear. Here, we identify endogenous phenyllactic acid (PLA) as a critical metabolite regulating intestinal barrier integrity and oxidative homeostasis in HTG-AP. We noted serum PLA, a disease-associated metabolite whose reduction correlates with gut dysbiosis and pancreatic inflammation in HTG-AP. PLA supplementation in HTG-AP mice attenuated intestinal barrier dysfunction and mitigated intestinal oxidative stress, as evidenced by improved gut dysbiosis, reduced reactive oxygen species accumulation, restored superoxide dismutase activity, restored barrier integrity, reduced bacterial translocation to the pancreas, and decreased serum lipopolysaccharide levels, ultimately mitigating pancreatic injury. RNA sequencing of colonic tissue revealed peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling as one of the most significantly altered pathways in HTG-AP. PPARγ expression was markedly reduced in colonic epithelial cells and upregulated upon PLA treatment. Knockdown of colonic epithelial PPARγ via adeno-associated virus abrogated the beneficial effects of PLA on intestinal barrier integrity, oxidative stress and pancreatic injury in HTG-AP mice. The protective effects of PLA were phenocopied by the PPARγ agonist rosiglitazone. Collectively, these findings identified gut microbiota-derived PLA as an endogenously derived metabolite modulating intestinal oxidative stress and barrier function. Using male C57BL/6J mice to establish an HTG-AP model, we further revealed that PLA exerts protective effects against HTG-AP by targeting colonic PPARγ to modulate the gut–pancreas axis, highlighting PLA as a promising candidate for targeted intervention in HTG-AP. Full article
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16 pages, 10263 KB  
Article
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CCNH185 Attenuates Citrobacter rodentium-Induced Colitis by Reshaping Gut Microbiota Structure and Modulating Innate Immunity
by Yizhi Jing, Xiaoyue Bai, Yuanzhi Yin, Xinfeng Liu, Junzhu Li, Zhichao Chen, Zhengyuan Zhai and Yanling Hao
Foods 2026, 15(10), 1815; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15101815 - 20 May 2026
Viewed by 348
Abstract
Infectious enteritis caused by bacterial pathogens are a significant global health concern, with high incidence and mortalities worldwide. The objective of this research was to explore the benefits of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CCNH185 against Citrobacter rodentium-induced colitis in mice. Female C57BL/6J mice ( [...] Read more.
Infectious enteritis caused by bacterial pathogens are a significant global health concern, with high incidence and mortalities worldwide. The objective of this research was to explore the benefits of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CCNH185 against Citrobacter rodentium-induced colitis in mice. Female C57BL/6J mice (n = 8 per group) were orally administered L. plantarum CCNH185 at a dose of 2 × 109 CFU daily for 24 days, followed by a single oral challenge with C. rodentium (2 × 109 CFU) on day 21. L. plantarum CCNH185 significantly alleviated disease symptoms including body weight loss, colon shortening and histopathological damage (p < 0.05). Treatment with L. plantarum CCNH185 also reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, such as IL-1β and IL-6 (p < 0.05), while increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10 expression (p < 0.05) in the colon. Histological and immunofluorescence demonstrated that L. plantarum CCNH185 improved the intestinal barrier integrity by increasing goblet cell numbers, upregulating MUC2 expression, reducing crypt hyperplasia, and suppressing epithelial cell apoptosis. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis revealed that L. plantarum CCNH185 suppressed excessive immune cell infiltration and inflammatory responses in the colon during C. rodentium infection. Flow cytometry analysis further confirmed that L. plantarum CCNH185 suppressed hyperactivation of innate immune cells including macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils to alleviate inflammation. Furthermore, L. plantarum CCNH185 reshaped the gut microbiota by increasing the abundance of beneficial genera such as Lactobacillus, Dubosiella, and Romboutsia. Correlation analysis linked these microbial shifts with improved inflammatory and apoptotic markers. These findings highlight L. plantarum CCNH185 may serve as a promising preventive probiotic candidate for ameliorating infectious colitis possibly through strengthening the gut mucus barrier, modulating immune responses, and altering gut microbiota composition. Full article
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23 pages, 3868 KB  
Article
Detection of Calpain-Mediated Beclin-1 Cleavage for Drug Discovery in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
by Kylee A. Hunter, Anne-Marie C. Overstreet, Bryon Benjamin Koff, Hridai Dharan, Steven Overend and Jeannette S. Messer
Cells 2026, 15(10), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15100917 - 18 May 2026
Viewed by 447
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are diseases of chronic inflammation and intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) death that affect an estimated 7 million people worldwide. Intestinal barrier restoration is the most important determinant of remission in IBD, yet there are very few existing therapies that [...] Read more.
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are diseases of chronic inflammation and intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) death that affect an estimated 7 million people worldwide. Intestinal barrier restoration is the most important determinant of remission in IBD, yet there are very few existing therapies that protect IECs from damage or support epithelial repair. The goal of this study was to develop a model system and tools that can be used to identify therapeutics that promote IEC survival in IBD. We developed a Beclin-1 cleavage reporter (BICR) that detects calpain-mediated Beclin-1 cleavage and the switch from autophagy to programmed cell death. We modified BICR with the HIV Tat peptide (BICR-Tat) and tested it in a model of live bacterial stress using commensal E. coli and IEC. BICR sensitively and specifically detected calpain activity in cell-free assays, and BICR-Tat successfully detected Beclin-1 cleavage and autophagy failure in IEC. Achieving IEC survival in the microbe-challenged IBD gut would be an important advance toward intestinal barrier restoration in this intractable disease. The BICR-Tat reporter coupled with the model of microbial stress developed in this study could enable high-throughput screening approaches to identify therapeutics with the potential to achieve barrier healing and sustained remission in IBD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Calpains in Health and Diseases)
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20 pages, 4144 KB  
Article
PIKfyve Deficiency Exacerbates Radiation-Induced Intestinal Toxicity
by Aoqiang Ji, Xing Shen, Chunan Zhao, Zhaopeng Weng, Xuewen Zhang, Kai-Kai Yu, Shuang Xing, Xinlong Yan and Zuyin Yu
Toxics 2026, 14(5), 434; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics14050434 - 14 May 2026
Viewed by 551
Abstract
Background: Intestinal acute radiation syndrome (IARS) represents a life-threatening component of acute radiation syndrome with limited effective countermeasures. Understanding molecular determinants governing intestinal epithelial resilience to ionizing radiation is critical for developing radiation toxicity mitigation strategies. Objectives: This study investigates the role of [...] Read more.
Background: Intestinal acute radiation syndrome (IARS) represents a life-threatening component of acute radiation syndrome with limited effective countermeasures. Understanding molecular determinants governing intestinal epithelial resilience to ionizing radiation is critical for developing radiation toxicity mitigation strategies. Objectives: This study investigates the role of PIKfyve, a phosphoinositide kinase essential for endolysosomal homeostasis, in modulating radiation-induced intestinal toxicity. Methods: We utilized an inducible intestinal epithelial-specific PIKfyve-knockout mouse model (PIKfyve cKO) subjected to 10 Gy abdominal irradiation. Intestinal toxicity was assessed through histopathology, barrier permeability (FD4 assay), apoptosis markers, and transcriptomic profiling. Small intestinal organoids were employed for mechanistic validation. Results: PIKfyve deletion alone did not perturb normal gut architecture but precipitated severe post-irradiation toxicity, including villous atrophy, crypt hypoplasia, and massive crypt-cell apoptosis. Barrier dysfunction was evidenced by elevated serum FD4 and heightened systemic pro-inflammatory cytokines, culminating in markedly increased mortality. Transcriptomic analysis revealed potentiated DNA-damage signaling and amplified inflammatory cascades in PIKfyve-deficient intestines. Conclusions: These findings identify PIKfyve as a critical guardian of intestinal epithelial integrity against radiation toxicity. Given emerging PIKfyve inhibitors in cancer therapy, our results raise important safety considerations for clinical radiotherapy and position PIKfyve as a potential target for radiation toxicity mitigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Radiation Toxicology and Translation)
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21 pages, 7916 KB  
Article
6-Bromoindole-3-acetonitrile Attenuates DSS-Induced Colitis by Inhibiting Epithelial Cell Pyroptosis
by Da Hong, Ximing Yang, Zhihui Chang, Lushun Yuan, Ming Du and Shuzhen Cheng
Foods 2026, 15(10), 1697; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15101697 - 12 May 2026
Viewed by 289
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that requires new treatment approaches beyond traditional anti-inflammatory drugs. In this study, we analyzed publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing data from a DSS-induced colitis mouse model and identified pyroptosis as a key biological process linked [...] Read more.
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that requires new treatment approaches beyond traditional anti-inflammatory drugs. In this study, we analyzed publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing data from a DSS-induced colitis mouse model and identified pyroptosis as a key biological process linked to epithelial damage. Based on this, we screened marine-derived brominated indoles for potential pyroptosis inhibitors and identified 6-bromoindole-3-acetonitrile as a promising candidate. Our results show that this compound significantly alleviates DSS-induced colitis in mice, with notable body weight recovery and a drop in Disease Activity Index (DAI) scores from about 8.5 to below 4 (p < 0.05). At the molecular level, it lowers the mRNA levels of Nlrp3, Caspase-1, and other pyroptosis-related genes, indicating suppression of the pyroptotic pathway. Moreover, treatment helps restore the intestinal barrier by supporting goblet cell regeneration and strengthening tight junctions. Molecular docking suggests that 6-bromoindole-3-acetonitrile binds stably to the active site of myeloperoxidase (MPO), with a binding energy of −18.1 kcal/mol, offering a possible structural basis for its anti-inflammatory effects. Together, these findings point to a marine-derived compound that reduces both inflammation and pyroptosis, representing a promising strategy for treating ulcerative colitis. Notably, these results come from preclinical studies and need further validation in clinical settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutraceuticals, Functional Foods, and Novel Foods)
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20 pages, 3482 KB  
Article
Rosmarinic Acid Ameliorates PM2.5-Induced Alterations in Gut Microbiota and Intestinal Inflammation in Broilers
by Ying Zhou, Bin Xu, Wen Deng, Linyi Wang and Shaoyu Li
Animals 2026, 16(10), 1428; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101428 - 7 May 2026
Viewed by 777
Abstract
(1) Airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5) poses a growing threat to poultry production by impairing intestinal health, disturbing microbial balance, and reducing growth performance. Rosmarinic acid (RA), a natural polyphenol with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gut microbiota-regulating properties, can effectively maintain intestinal [...] Read more.
(1) Airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5) poses a growing threat to poultry production by impairing intestinal health, disturbing microbial balance, and reducing growth performance. Rosmarinic acid (RA), a natural polyphenol with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gut microbiota-regulating properties, can effectively maintain intestinal homeostasis. To date, its protective effects against PM2.5-induced intestinal injury in broilers remain largely unclear. This study investigated whether dietary RA supplementation mitigates intestinal damage and microbiota dysbiosis caused by PM2.5 in broilers and explored the related mechanisms. (2) A total of 144 21-day-old broilers were randomly allocated to three groups, control (CON), PM2.5 exposure (PM), and PM2.5 exposure plus rosmarinic acid (RA), with six replicates of eight broilers each. (3) Results indicated that PM2.5 exposure severely impaired growth performance, whereas dietary RA significantly increased average daily feed intake and average daily gain, decreased the feed-to-gain ratio, and elevated final body weight in broilers. RA significantly attenuated PM2.5-induced intestinal inflammation, as evidenced by reduced expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IFN-γ) and downregulation of key components in the TLR4 signaling pathway (TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB). Inhaled PM2.5 exposure impaired the intestinal epithelial barrier, marked by decreased mRNA levels of MUC2 and CLDN1 and increased caspase3 expression. Dietary RA treatment effectively restored these indicators, suggesting its role in maintaining epithelial integrity. Furthermore, RA reshaped the gut microbiota structure, altering both α- and β-diversity. Notably, RA led to a higher proportion of potentially health-promoting bacterial taxa, including Lactobacillus, V9D2013_group, and Oscillospirales, while reducing opportunistic pathogens like Shuttleworthia. (4) In conclusion, RA alleviates PM2.5-induced intestinal inflammation, reinforces the epithelial barrier, and modulates the intestinal microbiota in broilers, likely through inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling. These findings reveal a novel mechanism by which RA mitigates pollutant-induced intestinal injury via gut microbiota modulation and TLR4/NF-κB suppression, offering new insights into the gut–lung axis in avian species. Full article
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Review
The Role of Gut Microbiota in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
by Lydia Maria Inglezou, Theocharis Konstantinidis, Aikaterini Skeva, Bouse Malkots, Emmanouil Panagiotopoulos, Vasiliki Sakka, Emmanouil Spanoudakis, Maria Panopoulou, Ioannis Kotsianidis and Konstantinos Liapis
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(10), 3571; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15103571 - 7 May 2026
Viewed by 551
Abstract
Gut microbiota plays a crucial role in regulating immune system function and shaping immunological responses to pathogens capable of causing infections. Alterations in the composition of the intestinal microbiome are associated with immune system dysfunction and increased susceptibility to infections. Patients with acute [...] Read more.
Gut microbiota plays a crucial role in regulating immune system function and shaping immunological responses to pathogens capable of causing infections. Alterations in the composition of the intestinal microbiome are associated with immune system dysfunction and increased susceptibility to infections. Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are highly susceptible to infections due to immune system deregulation caused by the disease itself, as well as chemotherapy-induced bone marrow aplasia. In these patients, gut microbiota dysbiosis and reduced microbial diversity (i.e., imbalances in the composition and function of intestinal microbes) result from multiple factors, including the underlying disease, neutropenia, dietary factors, use of antibiotics, chemotherapy regimens and prolonged hospitalization. Chemotherapy, for instance, induces damage to the intestinal mucosa and disrupts the epithelial barrier, resulting in deregulation of the intestinal microbiome. Previous studies have reported alterations in the human intestinal microbiome in patients with AML undergoing chemotherapy. Of particular interest is the capacity of some commensal bacteria to modulate the tumor microenvironment and response to chemotherapy. Moreover, increased mortality and reduced overall survival have been reported in patients who have undergone allogeneic stem cell transplantation and exhibit decreased gut microbiome diversity at the time of transplantation. These findings indicate that the composition of gut microbiota may play an important role in the prognosis of AML, especially in relation to therapeutic response. This narrative review summarizes new research into the role of the intestinal microbiome and the underlying alterations observed in patients with AML, resulting from the disease and therapeutic interventions and outlines strategies to improve its function and outcomes. Full article
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