Search Results (9,582)

Perinatal antibiotic exposure poses a significant risk to maternal-offspring immune programming and infant gut microbiota development. This study investigated the time-specific effects of maternal cefoperazone sodium (CPZ) administration on IgG transfer and offspring gut microbiota in a murine model. Pregnant C57BL/6J mice were assigned to control (CON), gestational (G-CPZ), lactational (L-CPZ), and combined gestational/lactational (GL-CPZ) treatment groups. Results showed that all CPZ treatments significantly reduced IgG and its subtype levels in maternal serum, colostrum, and offspring serum (p < 0.05). Concurrently, mRNA expression of the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), critical for IgG transport, was downregulated in both maternal breast and offspring intestinal tissues (p < 0.05). Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that CPZ exposure altered offspring gut microbiota diversity and composition. Alpha diversity was reduced, particularly in the G-CPZ group, while beta diversity showed significant separation in L-CPZ and GL-CPZ groups (p < 0.05). Taxonomic shifts included decreased Bacteroidetes and Lactobacillus, and in the GL-CPZ group, a marked increase in Firmicutes and potential pathobionts like Enterococcus and Hungatella (p < 0.05). These findings demonstrate that perinatal antibiotic exposure, depending on its timing, impairs maternal-offspring IgG transfer via the FcRn pathway and induces distinct, persistent alterations in the offspring’s gut microbiota, which may have implications for neonatal immunity and long-term health. Full article

Reproductive performance in livestock and poultry is a core determinant of economic efficiency in the animal industry. While traditional research has primarily focused on genetics, endocrinology, and immune regulation, emerging microbiome studies reveal that commensal microbiota within the gut and reproductive tracts play an underestimated yet pivotal role in host reproductive health. This review systematically synthesizes recent advances regarding the relationship between the microbiome and reproductive functions in major livestock species (cattle, pigs, sheep, and chickens). We first delineate the theoretical basis and mechanisms of the “gut-reproductive axis,” highlighting cross-system communication mediated by microbial metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), indoles, and bile acids. Subsequently, we provide an in-depth comparative analysis of the microecological features of both female (vagina/uterus) and male (semen/epididymis) reproductive systems, examining their impacts on fertility, sperm quality, and pregnancy outcomes. Furthermore, we explore the molecular and systemic mechanisms governing microbial regulation of reproduction, encompassing the modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, the balance of local mucosal immunity and inflammation, and epigenetic regulation. Finally, we address current challenges—such as causal validation and the scarcity of multi-species databases—and propose future directions, including spatial multi-omics, AI-integrated analysis, and microbial intervention strategies. Ultimately, this review aims to offer a theoretical foundation and translational insights for elucidating reproductive regulatory networks and developing microbiome-driven precision strategies to enhance reproductive performance. Full article

Recently, the role of mucosal intestinal microbiota in human health has received increasing attention. Nevertheless, data on the response of this microbiota to various interventions remain limited. Here, we have employed the Mucosal Simulator of Human Gastrointestinal Microbial Ecosystem (M-SHIME^®) and luminal SHIME^® (L-SHIME^®) to examine mucosal microbiota responses to interventions that are known to impact the intestinal microbial community in humans and study relationships between the responses of mucosal and luminal microbiota. Specifically, we evaluated the effects of varying macronutrient levels over a 28-day standard, balanced dietary intervention and a parallel 14-day administration of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG. Observed shifts in mucosal microbiota in response to interventions differed significantly from those observed in luminal microbiota (p < 0.05). In particular, we found that the mucosal microbiota compared to luminal microbiota was more stable and that the abundance of several genera (i.e., Subdoligranulum, Parabacteroides and Fusobacterium) in the M-SHIME^® correlated positively with the intake of dietary macronutrients, especially protein, which was in line with results reported in previous human studies. This study demonstrates the reliability of advanced in vitro models in capturing diet-induced dynamics of the human mucosal microbiota, a compartment that remains understudied despite its critical role in intestinal immune regulation. Full article

Aging is accompanied by progressive gastrointestinal structural and functional decline, increased intestinal permeability, dysbiosis, and impaired mucosal immunity, collectively elevating susceptibility to infections, chronic inflammation, and multimorbidity. These age-related changes are further exacerbated by polypharmacy, metabolic disorders, and lifestyle factors, positioning the gastrointestinal tract as a central driver of systemic physiological decline. Gut-centered interventions have emerged as critical strategies to mitigate these vulnerabilities and support healthy aging. Dietary modulation, prebiotic and probiotic supplementation, and microbiota-targeted approaches have demonstrated efficacy in improving gut microbial diversity, enhancing short-chain fatty acid production, restoring epithelial integrity, and modulating immune signaling in older adults. Beyond nutritional strategies, non-nutritional interventions such as molecular hydrogen and medical ozone offer complementary mechanisms by selectively neutralizing reactive oxygen species, reducing pro-inflammatory signaling, modulating gut microbiota, and promoting mucosal repair. Hydrogen-based therapies, administered via hydrogen-rich water or inhalation, confer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective effects, while ozone therapy exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, enhances tissue oxygenation, and stimulates epithelial and vascular repair. Economic considerations further differentiate these modalities, with hydrogenated water positioned as a premium wellness product and ozonated water representing a cost-effective, scalable option for geriatric gastrointestinal care. Although preclinical and early clinical studies are promising, evidence in older adults remains limited, emphasizing the need for well-designed, age-specific trials to establish safety, dosing, and efficacy. Integrating dietary, microbiota-targeted, and emerging non-nutritional gut-centered interventions offers a multimodal framework to preserve gut integrity, immune competence, and functional health, potentially mitigating age-related decline and supporting overall health span in older populations. Full article

The rapid evolution of smart transportation systems necessitates the integration of advanced sensing technologies capable of supporting the real-time, reliable, and cost-effective monitoring of road infrastructure. Fiber-optic sensor (FOS) technologies, given their high sensitivity, immunity to electromagnetic interference, and suitability for harsh environments, have emerged as promising tools for enabling intelligent transportation infrastructure. This review critically examines the current landscape of classical mechanical and electrical sensor realization in monitoring solutions. Focus is also given to fiber-optic-sensor-based solutions for smart road applications, encompassing both well-established techniques such as Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors and distributed sensing systems, as well as emerging hybrid sensor networks. The article examines the most topical physical parameters that can be measured by FOSs in road infrastructure monitoring to support traffic monitoring, structural health assessment, weigh-in-motion (WIM) system development, pavement condition evaluation, and vehicle classification. In addition, strategies for FOS integration with digital twins, machine learning, artificial intelligence, quantum sensing, and Internet of Things (IoT) platforms are analyzed to highlight their potential for data-driven infrastructure management. Limitations related to deployment, scalability, long-term reliability, and standardization are also discussed. The review concludes by identifying key technological gaps and proposing future research directions to accelerate the adoption of FOS technologies in next-generation road transportation systems. Full article

The hepatic lymphatic system, long underappreciated, plays a critical role in liver physiology by maintaining interstitial fluid balance, removing metabolic waste, and facilitating immune surveillance. Emerging evidence indicates that lymphatic dysfunction contributes to the pathogenesis and progression of multiple liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NAFLD/NASH), hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. This review summarizes current knowledge on hepatic lymphatic anatomy, physiology, and molecular regulation, highlights pathological alterations, and discusses potential therapeutic implications. A better understanding of the hepatic lymphatic system may enable the development of novel lymphatic-targeted strategies to improve liver health and treat liver disease. Full article

Background/Objectives: Prebiotics, which are non-digestible compounds that selectively modulate gut microbiota, are recognized for their potential to promote host health. Although their bifidogenic effect is well documented, a systematic synthesis of how this microbial modulation translates into clinical gastrointestinal (GI) and metabolic outcomes across diverse populations is needed. This review aims to integrate mechanistic insights with clinical evidence to elucidate the pathway from prebiotic structures to tangible health benefits. Methods: This comprehensive narrative review details the structural properties of major prebiotics (e.g., inulin, FOS, and GOS) that govern their fermentation and the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). To evaluate clinical efficacy, an analysis of 22 randomized controlled trials from the past decade was conducted, focusing on human studies that utilized ISAPP-recognized prebiotics as the sole intervention. Results: The analysis confirms that prebiotic supplementation consistently increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus) and SCFA production. These changes are associated with significant clinical improvements, including enhanced stool frequency and consistency, strengthened intestinal barrier function, and modulated immune responses. Benefits have been documented in healthy individuals, children, the elderly, and those with conditions such as constipation, metabolic syndrome, and antibiotic-associated dysbiosis. However, significant inter-individual variability in response was evident, and the study designs showed notable heterogeneity in prebiotic type, dosage, and duration. Conclusions: Prebiotics are effective modulators of gut health, driving clinical benefits through selective microbial fermentation and SCFA production. The documented heterogeneity and variability highlight the need for future research to focus on personalized nutritional strategies. Key priorities include standardizing intervention protocols, elucidating dose–response relationships, integrating multi-omics data to link taxonomy to function, and exploring novel applications such as synbiotic formulations and gut–brain axis modulation. Full article

This study evaluated the optimal dietary lipid level for Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) reared in freshwater, aiming to provide foundational knowledge for the development of cost-effective and nutritionally balanced aquafeeds. Four experimental diets were formulated to contain comparable crude protein levels (47%) but graded lipid levels of 14% (L14), 16% (L16), 18% (L18), and 20% (L20), and were fed to salmon with an initial mean body weight of 241.5 ± 9.7 g during a 12-week feeding trial. Fish in the L16 group exhibited the highest weight gain (WG) and feed efficiency (FE), whereas those in the L14 group showed significantly reduced growth performance. Antioxidant analysis revealed that glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity was lowest in the L14 group (p < 0.05), while plasma glucose concentration was minimized in the L16 group (p < 0.05). Transcriptomic profiling of liver tissue from the L14 and L16 groups identified 2117 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Genes associated with lipid metabolism were more highly expressed in the L16 group, whereas immune- and inflammation-related genes were upregulated in the L14 group. These findings suggest that a dietary lipid level of approximately 16% is most favorable for promoting growth, metabolic stability, and overall health in freshwater-reared Atlantic salmon, thereby providing practical guidance for optimizing feed formulation and improving the economic efficiency of freshwater salmon aquaculture. Full article

Annual influenza vaccination remains critical for mitigating severe illness and reducing healthcare strain, particularly among high-risk populations. Despite advancements in vaccine platforms, the comparative efficacy of novel vaccines—such as high-dose (HD-IIV), recombinant (rIV), cell-based (cIV), and adjuvanted (aIV) influenza vaccines—versus standard-dose non-adjuvanted (SD-IIV) vaccines remains a public health concern. Traditional Relative Vaccine Efficacy (rVE) metrics, though robust, may overestimate population-level benefits. This short communication explores alternative comparative efficacy measures: risk difference (ΔRD) and number needed to vaccinate (ΔNNV). Analysis of data derived from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), or robust pragmatic trials, shows that while rVE values for newer vaccines often indicate superior efficacy, ΔRD and ΔNNV highlight the limits in incremental protection at the population level, with ΔRD generally below 10 cases per 1000 vaccinated. These findings underline the sustained relevance of SD-IIV in immunization programs and emphasize the need for broader vaccine coverage to highlight the benefits of vaccination and enhance population health outcomes. Full article

Cancer remains a significant global health burden despite advances in diagnosis and treatment. In recent years, drug repurposing has emerged as a promising strategy in oncology, offering reduced costs and shorter development timelines compared with de novo drug discovery. Among repurposed agents, the antifungal drug itraconazole has demonstrated anticancer activity across multiple tumor types, particularly when used in combination with other therapeutic modalities. In this review, we summarize current preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the use of itraconazole in cancer therapy, with a specific focus on its combination with chemotherapeutic agents and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) immune checkpoint inhibitors. We highlight proposed mechanisms underlying this synergy, including modulation of tumor metabolism, angiogenesis, and immune signaling pathways. Additionally, we discuss key challenges and limitations, such as drug–drug interactions and toxicity considerations, that must be addressed to optimize clinical translation. Overall, the combination of itraconazole with chemotherapy or anti-PD-1 therapy represents a promising therapeutic strategy warranting further investigation in well-designed trials. Full article

Conventional semen analysis fails to capture the molecular determinants underlying impaired reproductive function. Emerging evidence positions seminal plasma (SP) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) as dynamic regulators of sperm physiology, rather than passive transport components. SP, enriched with proteins, metabolites, hormones, and antioxidants, modulates sperm motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction, and immune tolerance. Complementarily, EVs, including prostasomes, epididymosomes, and testicular vesicles, deliver proteins, lipids, and small RNAs that remodel sperm membranes, protect against oxidative insults, and influence fertilization success. A critical dimension of the SP-EV axis is its role in balancing oxidative stress (OS) and endocrine signaling. Hormones and metabolic regulators within SP, together with EV-mediated transfer of receptors and regulatory RNAs, further integrate systemic metabolic health with local reproductive outcomes. Dysregulation of these networks, particularly in conditions such as varicocele, obesity, diabetes, and idiopathic infertility, compromises sperm function and reduces assisted reproductive technology (ART) success. This evidence-based review synthesizes current evidence on SP and EVs as ‘molecular gatekeepers’ in male infertility, emphasizing OS regulation, endocrine crosstalk, and their potential as biomarker reservoirs. By integrating proteomic, metabolomic, and transcriptomic insights, the translational opportunities for biomarker-informed diagnostics, prognostication, and therapeutic interventions are highlighted. Full article

The Leizhou goat is a vital indigenous breed, yet its disease resilience can complicate early health monitoring. The white blood cell (WBC) count is a key indicator of immune status, but its relationship with the gut microbiota remains uncharacterized in this breed. This study aimed to characterize the fecal microbiota of Hainan black goats stratified based on their WBC counts. The goats were stratified into Lower, Middle, and High WBC groups based on peripheral WBC counts to compare their fecal microbiota and identify potential associations with systemic immunity. Significant differences in microbial alpha- and be-ta-diversity were observed among the groups, with the High WBC group showing the greatest richness. The microbiota was dominated by Bacillota and Bacteroidota at the phylum level. Linear discriminant analysis Effect Size (LEfSe) identified specific taxa en-riched in each group, such as Ruminococcusin the High WBC group. Critically, Spearman correlation analysis demonstrated significant positive correlations between WBC counts and the relative abundance of genera like unclassified_f_Oscillospiraceae and unclassi-fied_c_Clostridia. These findings demonstrate that WBC counts are significantly associated with distinct shifts in the gut microbial community structure of Hainan black goats. The identified WBC-associated microbial biomarkers suggest a link between the gut microbi-ome and host immune regulation, providing a foundation for future research on microbi-ota-mediated health assessment in goats. Full article

Background/Objectives: Fusobacterium nucleatum and Akkermansia muciniphila are key components of the human microbiota, influencing health and disease. F. nucleatum is associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) and poor prognosis through its pro-inflammatory and pro-tumorigenic activity, whereas A. muciniphila is linked to metabolic benefits and anti-inflammatory effects. This study aimed to evaluate the immunomodulatory impact of protein extracts from these bacteria on peripheral T cell responses in healthy individuals and CRC patients. Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were exposed to bacterial extracts, individually or in combination, and T cell subsets were analyzed by polychromatic flow cytometry. Results: In healthy donors, F. nucleatum increased Th0, Th2, and Tc9 cell frequencies while reducing Th1, Th1/Th17, and Treg cells. Conversely, A. muciniphila promoted a pro-inflammatory-associated T cell phenotype characterized by higher Th0, Th2, Th17, and Tc17 cells. Combined exposure enhanced Th0, Th17, and Tc17 cells while decreasing Th9 cells. In CRC patients, bacterial extracts induced no significant changes in T cell subsets. Conclusions: These findings indicate that F. nucleatum skews immune responses toward humoral and mucosal defense, whereas A. muciniphila enhances T cell polarization toward subsets usually associated with pro-inflammatory immune responses in healthy subjects. Further studies are needed to clarify their systemic immunological roles and interactions within the tumor microenvironment of CRC. Full article

(1) Background: Human rabies continues to be a significant public health challenge and imposes a heavy disease burden. The epidemiological characteristics and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) of human rabies in Chongqing were analyzed to provide a scientific basis for its prevention and control in Chongqing. (2) Methods: Data and case investigation forms of the human rabies epidemic in Chongqing from 2016 to 2024 were collected and analyzed using descriptive epidemiological methods. (3) Results: From 2016 to 2024, 84 human rabies cases were reported in Chongqing, with an average annual incidence rate of 0.03 per 100,000 population. Among the cases, 72.6% were aged 45 and above. Farmers constituted the primary infected group (73.8%). Analysis of exposure patterns and PEP revealed that 92.4% of cases involved dog transmission, with domestic dogs responsible for 65.2% and stray dogs for 31.8%. After exposure, 51.5% received no treatment, while only 6 individuals were vaccinated against rabies. (4) Conclusions: Although rabies incidence in Chongqing is low, dogs remain the primary source, and post-exposure vaccination is often delayed. Strengthening health education and dog immunization is crucial for supporting the global “Zero by 30” target. Full article

Background/Objectives: Apple pomace, a major by-product of juice production, represents both an environmental burden and an underutilized resource. This study aimed to enhance the nutritional value of apple pomace via solid-state fermentation (SSF) to develop a functional feed ingredient and systematically evaluate its effects on growth, metabolism, and intestinal health in weaned piglets. Methods: Apple pomace was fermented using a multi-species consortium (Geotrichum candidum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Rhizopus oryzae, Bacillus subtilis, and Trichoderma viride). A total of 180 weaned piglets were fed iso-nitrogenous diets containing 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, or 10% fermented apple pomace for 35 days. Growth performance, serum biochemical and immuno-antioxidant indices, diarrhea incidence, jejunal morphology, and fecal microbiota were analyzed. Results: Dietary fermented apple pomace supplementation showed dose-dependent effects. The 8% fermented apple pomace group exhibited optimal growth performance, with increased average daily gain and feed intake and reduced feed-to-gain ratio (p < 0.05). Serum analysis indicated enhanced protein synthesis, antioxidant capacity (T-AOC, SOD, GSH-Px), and immunoglobulin levels (IgA, IgG, IgM), along with reduced urea nitrogen and oxidative stress marker MDA. This group also had the lowest diarrhea rate, associated with improved jejunal villus morphology. Microbiota analysis revealed that 8% fermented apple pomace effectively increased α-diversity, promoted beneficial bacteria (e.g., lactic acid bacteria and butyrate-producing Clostridium sensu stricto_1), and suppressed pathogens (Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Streptococcus). Conclusions: Multi-species SSF successively enhanced the nutritional profile of apple pomace. Inclusion at 8% showed the most favorable response in terms of growth performance, metabolic profile, and immune–antioxidant status in weaned piglets, mediated through improved intestinal morphology and targeted modulation of the gut microbiota toward a more diverse and beneficial ecosystem. These findings support the high-value, functional utilization of apple pomace as a feed additive in swine nutrition. Full article