Search Results (955)

Background: This study investigated the relationships among mitochondrial energy metabolism, immune function, and gut microbiota in mice under a fatigued state, providing preliminary evidence for future nutrition-related mechanistic and intervention studies. Methods: Mice were adaptively fed for 4 days and then randomly divided into a normal control group (NC) and a fatigue model group (NM). Immune organ indices, serum IgG levels, thigh muscle ATP content, mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I–IV activities, and gut microbiota composition were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), microplate assays, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results: Compared with the NC, the NM showed a significantly reduced spleen index, serum IgG levels, mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I, III, and IV activities, along with reduced ATP content. Regarding gut microbiota, mice in the NM exhibited disordered intestinal villus arrangement, inflammatory cell infiltration in the crypts and muscular layers, and markedly reduced intestinal microbial activity as well as protease and sucrase activities. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed fewer ASVs in the NM, with enrichment of Lactobacillaceae, Limosilactobacillus, and Ligilactobacillus, whereas the NC was characterized by Borkfalkiaceae and Borkfalkia. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis identified Lactobacillaceae, Firmicutes_D, and Lactobacillales as characteristic taxa of the NM. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) prediction indicated that fatigue-associated microbial functions were mainly related to carbohydrate, amino acid, and lipid metabolism. Correlation and RDA analyses further suggested that alterations in gut microbiota structure were closely associated with mitochondrial energy-related indicators and immune-related parameters. Conclusions: Fatigue was associated with alterations in energy metabolism, immune function, and gut microecology in mice. The “gut microbiota–energy metabolism–immunity” framework may represent a potential association-based framework and provides biological information to support future nutrition-related intervention studies. Full article

Background: Chlorella, a unicellular green alga, is currently one of the most popular algae supplements due to its high content of bioactive compounds. Chlorella’s wide range of macro- and micronutrients, including chlorophyll compounds and carotenoids, has been suggested to influence various disorders related to the digestive and nervous systems. This review’s primary purpose was to critically analyze the effects of Chlorella intake on gut microbiota and brain function. Methods: The authors conducted a systematic review with narrative synthesis of peer-reviewed articles written in English and published in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus spanning the years 2009 to 2026 (PROSPERO registration number CRD42024527705). The search protocol was performed following PRISMA guidelines. Primary outcomes encompassed physiological variables, such as gut microbial composition, short-chain fatty acids, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and hippocampal cell density. Secondary outcomes were assessed through neurobehavioral tests and psychological questionnaires. Results: Out of the 1333 articles identified, 47 studies were deemed eligible, and 21 met the predefined criteria, subsequently incorporated into this systematic review. In total, 10 articles documented interventions involving Chlorella and their effects on the gut microbiota, whereas 11 articles investigated several variables pertinent to brain function. Most of the studies included were conducted in animal models, with only a limited number of human trials. Nineteen studies (90%), predominantly preclinical, reported positive associations between Chlorella consumption, gut microbiota modulation, and physiological or neurobehavioral markers related to the gut–brain axis. Conclusions: Chlorella consumption may modulate gut microbiota composition and function, potentially influencing brain-related processes. However, the available literature lacks studies simultaneously addressing both gut microbiota and brain health parameters limiting the understanding of the underlying physiological mechanisms. Full article

Background: The reversal of liver fibrosis is crucial for improving outcomes in chronic liver disease. The gut–liver axis, mediated by the intestinal microbiota, plays a significant role in this process. However, its dynamic changes and mechanisms during reversal remain unclear. This study aimed to systematically reveal these dynamics and explore the link between gut microbiota and metabolism in a spontaneous reversal model. Methods: Intestinal contents were collected from mouse model groups (fibrosis, 4-week reversal, and 12-week reversal). The use of 16S rRNA gene sequencing was employed to analyze gut microbiota structure, and untargeted metabolomics was used to profile metabolic changes. Differential metabolites and microbial taxa were identified using multivariate statistical analysis, followed by pathway enrichment analysis. Spearman correlation analysis was used to construct metabolite–microbiota association networks across different reversal stages. Results: Metabolomic analysis showed significant alterations in multiple pathways during reversal. Linoleic and α-linolenic acid metabolism had a high impact in later stages. Taurine and biotin metabolism remained active throughout. Branched-chain amino acid degradation was enriched later. Microbiota analysis revealed significant structural shifts via beta-diversity. Bacteroidota decreased while Firmicutes increased in 4 weeks. Butyrate-producing families increased, and Akkermansia was enriched later. Integrated analysis demonstrated significant correlations between specific bacteria and metabolites, indicating a close microbiota–metabolism association during reversal. Conclusions: This integrated multi-omics study delineates the potential dynamic reorganization of the gut microbiota and host metabolism during spontaneous liver fibrosis reversal. These findings provide a theoretical basis for understanding the gut–liver axis mechanism in fibrosis reversal and for developing microbiota-targeted intervention strategies. Full article

This paper analyzes the role of cereal products in the diet of individuals with disorders of carbohydrate metabolism, with particular emphasis on their impact on postprandial glycemia and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). Cereal products, as the main source of dietary carbohydrates, also provide dietary fiber, minerals, B vitamins, and key bioactive compounds such as β-glucans, arabinoxylans, resistant starch (RS), and polyphenols. These components may reduce the rate of starch digestion and glucose absorption in the small intestine by increasing the viscosity of intestinal contents or by directly inhibiting digestive enzymes such as α-glucosidase. It has been shown that fermentation of these compounds by the gut microbiota leads to the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which improve insulin sensitivity and stimulate the secretion of incretin hormones such as GLP-1. A literature review confirms that regular consumption of whole-grain products is associated with a reduced risk of T2D, whereas refining processes and excessive grain fragmentation lead to an increased glycemic index of products. Based on clinical guidelines and a narrative synthesis of the available literature, minimally processed whole-grain products were identified as a fundamental component of dietary therapy for diabetes, which is illustrated by the cereal product pyramid presented in the paper. This review involved a comprehensive literature search in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using relevant keywords. Peer-reviewed articles, reviews, and meta-analyses (mainly 2000–2025) were included based on their relevance. Full article

Sambucus nigra L. (European elderberry) is distinguished among medicinal and edible plants by its exceptionally high cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) content, which markedly exceeds that of common berries. This unique phytochemical profile establishes C3G as the principal bioactive constituent underlying the antitumor activity of S. nigra. While numerous reviews on elderberry have been published, none has systematically integrated C3G biosynthesis, transcriptional regulation, in vivo metabolism, and anti-tumor mechanisms specifically in S. nigra—a critical research gap that this review fills for the first time. Herein, we systematically examine the chemical structure and content distribution of C3G in S. nigra, elucidate the phenylpropanoid–flavonoid biosynthetic pathway and the regulatory patterns of the MYB-bHLH-WD40 (MBW) transcriptional complex, and highlight the current research gap regarding the cloning and functional characterization of core MBW factors in this species. We further reveal the absorption and distribution characteristics of C3G in the human body, the gut microbiota-mediated biotransformation process, and the synergistic antitumor effects of its primary metabolite, protocatechuic acid. The molecular mechanisms through which C3G exerts antitumor activity, including the induction of tumor cell apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, inhibition of epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and modulation of key signaling pathways, such as NF-κB, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and JNK, are systematically elaborated. This is the first review to construct a comprehensive “biosynthetic regulation–in vivo metabolism–antitumor function” framework for C3G in S. nigra, thereby addressing critical research gaps and providing a theoretical foundation for the germplasm breeding of high-C3G cultivars, functional product development, and clinical adjuvant cancer therapy. Full article

Background and Objectives: Nowadays synthetic sweeteners are widely used as sugar substitutes in beverages, processed foods, and pharmaceutical products, largely due to their low caloric content and perceived benefits for weight management and glycemic control. Their consumption has increased markedly over recent decades, paralleling global efforts to reduce added sugar intake and combat obesity and diabetes. This review examines the regulation of artificial sweeteners, their impact on vulnerable populations, and the increased concern about their health effects, including metabolic effects, effects on gut microbiota and neurological and behavioral issues. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search was performed across multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, to identify studies relevant to synthetic sweeteners and human health. Results: While considered safe, artificial sweeteners are linked to potential influence on hormonal responses, affecting glucose homeostasis and insulin secretion, as well as effects on gut microbiota composition and glucose metabolism. However, the results reveal inconsistencies of the impact of artificial sweeteners on vulnerable populations, as well as their effects on the human gut microbiota, neurological behavior and endocrine effects and evidence remain limited. Conclusions: Continuous human trials, post-market surveillance and regulatory evaluations are therefore essential to ensure the safety of sugar substitutes for consumers’ health. Full article

Background/Objectives: Immunodeficiency can be induced by a variety of factors, such as aging, stress and poor nutrition, and leads to increased susceptibility to infection and disease. The current research was conducted to determine the immunoenhancing potential of yam and its underlying mechanism in a murine model of cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppression. Methods: The gut microbial community and generation of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in response to yam were analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing and GC-MS. The immune cells in the spleen were analyzed using flow cytometry. GPR41/GPR43/GPR109A triple-knockout mice were used to demonstrate the critical involvement of SCFAs in mediating the protective effect of yam, and RNA-sequencing technology was applied to investigate the potential mechanism by which yam orchestrated the observed metabolic, immune and reparative responses. Results: Yam alleviated the decline in spleen and thymus indices and modulated the frequency of B cells and CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells and promoted the production of IgA, IgG and IgM. Yam increased the secretion of cytokines in the intestine and upregulated the levels of claudin and ZO-1. Yam also increased the content of SCFAs and induced beneficial modifications to the gut microbiota composition. The immune-enhancing activity of yam was confirmed, as evidenced by a notable decrease in viral load in immunosuppressed mice inoculated with influenza virus and its capacity to mitigate inflammatory response in pulmonary tissues. Conclusions: This study suggests that yam enhances immunity by synergistically regulating the gut–immune axis, supporting its development as a functional food intervention in managing immunodeficiency conditions. Full article

Brewers’ spent grain (BSG), which accounts for approximately 85% of the by-products generated during beer production, is a valuable source of dietary fibre, proteins and antioxidant compounds. This study aimed to characterise the chemical composition, techno-functional properties, antioxidant capacity and potential prebiotic effect of BSG flour as a sustainable functional ingredient. Dietary fibre composition, mineral content, and extractable and non-extractable (poly)phenol fractions were determined. The prebiotic potential of BSG flour was evaluated using an in vitro fermentation model with human faeces. Microbial metabolic activity was assessed through the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), lactate and ammonium, alongside changes in antioxidant capacity during fermentation, while microbiota composition was analysed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. BSG flour showed high levels of insoluble fibre, mainly hemicellulose and arabinoxylans, as well as proteins and non-extractable (poly)phenols, particularly hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives. In vitro fermentation led to a significant increase in SCFA production, particularly acetate and propionate, indicating active degradation of fibre polysaccharides. These metabolic changes were accompanied by enhanced antioxidant capacity and shifts in microbiota composition, including an increased relative abundance of Bifidobacterium species. Overall, this study suggests that BSG flour could be used as a novel ingredient for the development of dietary-fibre-rich foods with potential gut health benefits. Full article

Dietary polysaccharides regulate gut microbiota and exhibit diverse prebiotic activity, which is highly dependent on their structural properties. To explore the underlying structure-prebiotic relationship, this study selectively compared the structural characteristics of Ginseng polysaccharide (GP), Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP), and Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (DOP) and investigated their digestive stability and gut microbiota modulation via in vitro simulated digestion and fecal fermentation. Structural analysis revealed distinct differences in molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, and glycosidic linkages among the three polysaccharides. Moreover, GP is partially digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract, while GLP and DOP were resistant to upper-tract digestion. All three polysaccharides differentially modulate gut microbial fermentation, intestinal microbial community structure, and the expression of functional carbohydrate-active enzymes. Specifically, the high glucose content of GP selectively promoted the abundance of genera putatively linked to glucose utilization, including Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, and Alistipes. GLP preferentially enriched possible genera with galactose-metabolizing ability, such as Blautia, Collinsella, and Megamonas, while DOP selectively enriched microbiota putatively associated with mannose utilization, including Fusicatenibacter and Lachnospiraceae. Taken together, monosaccharide composition is a key structural feature that is closely associated with fermentation efficiency and gut microbial responses to polysaccharides, providing valuable insights for the precision utilization of bioactive polysaccharides. Full article

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is now recognized as the principal hepatic manifestation of obesity and metabolic dysfunction. Its pathogenesis is complex and multifactorial, driven by insulin resistance, low-grade chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, gut microbiota alterations, and abnormalities in lipid metabolism; together, these promote steatosis, lipotoxicity, and progression to fibrosis which can lead to compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD). MASLD is also a multisystem condition closely associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, atrial fibrillation, and other extrahepatic complications. In this context, emerging metabolic therapies show significant potential for modifying the natural history of the disease. Glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 receptor agonists induce substantial weight loss and improve steatosis and necro-inflammatory activity. Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2I) reduce glucotoxicity, promote modest weight loss, and lower hepatic fat content by improving insulin sensitivity and inflammatory signaling. Even more promising are dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists, which have demonstrated superior efficacy in metabolic control, reducing hepatic steatosis, and potentially modulating fibrotic processes, although definitive histological confirmation is still lacking. Overall, in this review, we discuss the physiopathological mechanisms of MASLD leading to cACLD along with the emerging therapies, such GLP1 receptor agonists, SGLT-2I, and GLP1/GIP which, when combined with structured lifestyle interventions, may attenuate progression toward steatohepatitis (MASH), fibrosis, and, thus, cirrhosis. Full article

Chronic non-communicable diseases are closely linked to low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress. Native Brazilian fruits, rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and carotenoids, have recognized antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Mechanisms of action included inhibition of NF-κB signaling, downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, modulation of oxidative biomarkers, and improvement of metabolic parameters. Several studies demonstrate protective effects against insulin resistance, hepatic steatosis, cardiovascular alterations, and neuroinflammation, alongside modulation of gut microbiota. Most evidence is from animal or cell models, with scarce clinical trials, limiting translational applicability. Overall, native Brazilian fruits represent promising dietary sources of bioactive compounds that may contribute to the modulation of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Challenges include variability in phytochemical content due to species, maturity, processing, a lack of standardized extraction and dosage protocols, and limited bioavailability data. Although preclinical findings are robust, further controlled human trials are necessary to confirm their efficacy and clarify their role in the clinical management of inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Full article

Modifying the feeding habits of economically valuable carnivorous fish species towards omnivorous or herbivorous diets is of significant importance in aquaculture. In previous studies, we obtained a hybrid fish (BM) by crossing herbivorous female Megalobrama amblycephala (BSB) (♀) with carnivorous male Culter mongolicus (MC) (♂). Preliminary research indicated that BM exhibits herbivorous tendencies and rapid growth. To further evaluate the feeding characteristics and application potential of BM, this study systematically analyzed and compared BM with its parental groups, focusing on the structural traits of feeding organs, digestive enzyme activity, hepatic transcriptome, and gut microbiota features. The results demonstrate that BM possesses intermediate morphological traits in its feeding organs, with measurable ratios lying between those of BSB and MC and closer to BSB. In terms of intestinal morphology, BM also exhibits hybrid characteristics, showing greater similarity to BSB. Compared to BSB, BM exhibited significantly higher trypsin and lipase activities in both the intestine and liver (p < 0.05), although these levels remained lower than those in MC (p < 0.05) and were closer to BSB. The α-amylase activity in BM was significantly lower than in BSB (p < 0.05) but higher than in MC (p < 0.05). Regarding muscle composition, BM showed a significant increase in protein content compared to both parental lines BSB and MC (p < 0.05), while its crude fat content was significantly lower than that of the paternal line MC (p < 0.05), and showed no significant difference from the maternal line BSB. Transcriptome analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes in the liver of BM were significantly enriched in pathways related to nutrient intake and metabolism, including the MAPK signaling pathway, insulin signaling pathway, glycerophospholipid metabolism, adipocytokine signaling pathway, arginine and proline metabolism, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, all closely associated with feeding habits in fish. The analysis of gut microbiota showed greater similarity between BM and BSB. Overall, the findings demonstrate that BM is a high-quality hybrid fish with herbivorous tendencies and elevated muscle protein content, which highlights its considerable potential for reducing feed costs and promoting sustainable aquaculture. These results provide supporting data for the future promotion and utilization of BM. Full article

Among diverse industrial wastes, antibiotic fermentation residues containing high concentrations of nosiheptide pose significant environmental and health risks. This study demonstrates that black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) can effectively degrade the nosiheptide residues within this fermentation matrix when blended with potato peel waste. Optimal degradation efficiency was achieved at a dry weight ratio of 3:5 (antibiotic fermentation residue to potato peel waste), yielding a 40.02% material reduction, an 8.63% bioconversion rate, and a 55.74% nosiheptide degradation rate. Further optimization of the larva-to-feed ratio enhanced nosiheptide degradation to 58.21%. Following 48 h of gut emptying period, no detectable nosiheptide remained within the tissues of the treated BSFL. The harvested larvae demonstrated high nutritional value, with crude protein and crude fat contents reaching up to 35.64% and 32.65%, respectively. The larvae also contained a comprehensive profile of essential amino acids, with the glutamic acid content exceeding 3%, which enhances feed palatability. Highly concentrated antibiotic treatments significantly increased the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes within the BSFL gut microbiota, with Dysgonomonas emerging as the dominant genus. This study highlights a novel strategy for degrading residual nosiheptide and converting waste into a valuable protein source, offering an eco-friendly solution for industrial waste management. Full article

Ofloxacin (OFL) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) are common co-occurring antibiotic contaminants in aquatic environments, yet their long-term combined toxicity to freshwater fish remains poorly elucidated. In this study, adult mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) were used as a model to investigate histopathological alterations, oxidative stress responses, gene expression, and gut microbiota changes after 30 days of exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of OFL and SMX (0 ng/L, 50 ng/L, 1 μg/L, and 20 μg/L), either individually or in combination. The results showed that both single and combined exposures induced liver and intestinal damage. Oxidative stress responses exhibited clear tissue specificity, with activation of antioxidant defenses in the liver, whereas the intestine was mainly characterized by decreased SOD and GST activities, as well as reduced MDA content. Changes in gene expression were relatively limited, with significant alterations observed only in hepatic sod2 and hsp90 and intestinal hsp70 in certain treatment groups. Gut microbiota analysis showed that OFL exerted a stronger disruptive effect than SMX, as reflected by increased alpha diversity, reduced abundance of core genera, and functional remodeling, whereas combined exposure triggered weaker microbial community restructuring relative to single exposures. Overall, OFL and SMX induced tissue-specific toxicity in mosquitofish by causing tissue injury, oxidative stress imbalance, and gut microbiota dysbiosis, with OFL showing the stronger overall effect. Full article

Zn-CS chelate has shown beneficial effects on gut health and growth in piglets, but its impact on weaned foals remains largely unknown. This study evaluated the effects of dietary Zn-CS supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, physiological status, and fecal microbiota in weaned Ili foals. Thirty-two six-month-old foals were randomly assigned to four treatment groups receiving 0, 2, 4, or 6 mg Zn-CS/kg body weight per day for 90 days. Growth performance, nutrient digestibility, plasma biochemical parameters, liver function enzymes, serum hormones, antioxidant indices, fecal pH, volatile fatty acids, and fecal microbial composition were measured. Dietary Zn-CS supplementation significantly increased final body weight, total weight gain, and average daily gain (p < 0.05), while linearly improving body size indicators. Apparent digestibility of dry matter, digestible energy, metabolizable energy, and acid detergent fiber was markedly enhanced (p < 0.05). Zn-CS supplementation also effectively regulated plasma albumin and total cholesterol levels and hepatic enzyme activities, and strongly enhanced antioxidant function by increasing superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase activities, and total antioxidant capacity, while reducing malondialdehyde content (p < 0.01). Additionally, Zn-CS upregulated plasma growth hormone, insulin, and triiodothyronine concentrations, decreased somatostatin secretion (p < 0.05), reduced fecal pH, and increased VFA contents. Notably, Zn-CS reshaped the fecal microbial structure by increasing beneficial bacteria and inhibiting potential pathogens. In conclusion, dietary Zn-CS supplementation effectively promotes growth and health in weaned Ili foals, with 6 mg/kg BW/day being the optimal supplemental dose under experimental conditions. Full article