Search Results (54)

Postbiotics, defined as metabolites produced by probiotics, encompass both bacterial cells and their metabolic byproducts, and offer significant health benefits to the host. However, there are relatively few reports on their effects on intestinal microbiota. In this study, we investigated the components, total antioxidant capacity of Lactobacillus helveticus postbiotics (LHPs) and their impact on intestinal flora using the Simulator for Human Intestinal Microecology Simulation (SHIME). The results indicate that the primary components of postbiotics include polysaccharides, proteins, and organic acids. Furthermore, LHPs have a strong ability to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria while promoting the growth of probiotics. Additionally, LHPs significantly increased the total antioxidant capacity in the intestine and regulated the balance of intestinal microbiota. Notably, there was also a significant increase in the content of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the intestine. Overall, LHPs have the potential to aid in the prevention and treatment of diseases by enhancing gut microbiology. Full article

Hyperuricemia (HUA), a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated serum uric acid (UA) levels, often leads to renal and hepatic complications. This study evaluated the synergistic effects of Pediococcus acidilactici GQ01, a probiotic strain isolated from naturally fermented wolfberry, in combination with a complex (T) composed of buckwheat-fermented postbiotics, collagen peptide and multiple medicinal food blends in a murine HUA model. The combination therapy (T + GQ01) not only significantly reduced serum UA levels more effectively than T or GQ01 alone but also demonstrated superior inhibition of XOD activity and enhanced ADA activity, both of which are key regulators of purine metabolism. Additionally, T + GQ01 ameliorated kidney injury, as evidenced by reduced serum CRE and BUN levels, and improved liver function, indicated by decreased ALT and AST activities. Histopathological analysis further confirmed the protective effects of T + GQ01 on renal and hepatic tissues. Moreover, T + GQ01 modulated intestinal flora composition, promoted beneficial genera such as Weissella and Bacteroides, and enhanced the production of SCFAs, particularly propionic and butyric acids, which play critical roles in maintaining intestinal health. These findings suggest that the cocktail-like microecological regulator combining P. acidilactici GQ01, buckwheat-fermented postbiotics, collagen peptide and multiple medicinal food blends represents a promising therapeutic strategy for HUA by targeting multiple metabolic pathways, underscoring its potential as a novel intervention for HUA and its complications. Full article

Dysbiosis, or an altered microbiota composition, has been implicated in chronic endometrial inflammation and recurrent implantation failure. Despite growing research on the relationship between the genital microbiome and reproductive health, few studies have examined its role in ectopic pregnancy. Therefore, our study focuses on the microbiota of the cervical canal in women diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy. Material and methods: The study group consisted of nine women of a reproductive age who were hospitalized at the Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Clinical Hospital of the University of Poznań, between February and September 2023. In nine patients, an ectopic pregnancy was diagnosed based on a transvaginal ultrasound examination. The swabs were collected for quantitative microbiological culture (using Amies transport medium). The microbiological analyses involved quantitative culture on selected selective and differential media, following the Standard Operating Procedure developed by the Institute of Microecology. Results: A reduced Lactobacillus spp. count (≤5 × 10⁷ CFU/mL) was observed in 78% of the patients participating in the study, including those that produce H₂O₂, i.e., with strong protective properties for the environment of the female reproductive tract. The molecular analyses revealed Ureaplasma spp. (U. parvum and U. urealyticum) in 33% of the samples (three patients). However, Chlamydia trachomatis and Mycoplasma genitalium were not detected in any of the analyzed samples. Conclusions: The ease of obtaining material and the minimally invasive nature of lower reproductive tract examinations may allow for the evaluation of microbiota imbalances, helping to identify individuals at an increased risk of reproductive complications. Full article

Cadmium-contaminated rice poses serious health risks through the bioaccumulation of Cd (cadmium) from soil to edible grains. Cd contamination disrupts soil microbial ecology and alters microbial diversity. However, the role of cultivar-specific rhizosphere microbial communities in modulating Cd uptake remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the mechanism underlying variety-dependent rhizosphere microecological remodeling and Cd accumulation in two independently selected late rice varieties, Yuzhenxiang (YZX) and Xiangwanxian 12 (XWX12). Combining physiological and metagenomic analyses, we revealed variety-specific correlations between root Cd accumulation and dynamic changes in soil pH, soil available phosphorus, and rhizosphere bacteria. The key bacterial genera (Variibacter, Nitrospira) showed differential enrichment patterns under Cd stress. In contrast, Galella and Anaeromyxobacter likely reduce Cd bioavailability by modulating phosphorus availability. Overall, this study elucidates that rice cultivars indirectly shape Cd accumulation patterns via rhizosphere microbial remodeling, providing novel insights for microbial remediation strategies in Cd-contaminated farmland. Full article

Microecological preparations (MPs), encompassing probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics, are microbial feed supplements that enhance host health through gut microbiota modulation. Unlike the narrow definition of probiotics (viable microorganisms), MPs constitute a broader category including non-viable microbial derivatives and selectively fermented substrates. Their application in aquaculture significantly reduces antibiotic dependence. Given the industry’s intensification challenges, while meeting global protein demands, high-density aquaculture elevates disease risks, driving prophylactic antibiotic overuse. This practice accelerates antimicrobial resistance (AMR) development, compromising treatment efficacy and causing residual antibiotics in aquatic products. Such residues violate international food safety standards, triggering trade disputes. As sustainable alternatives, MPs operate through multiple mechanisms: the competitive exclusion of pathogens, immune stimulation, and nutrient absorption enhancement. This review examines the patterns of antibiotic abuse and the emergence of AMR in carp aquaculture, evaluates MP-based mitigation strategies from the perspective of antibiotic alternatives, and analyzes the advantages, disadvantages, and application progress of MPs. Based on existing evidence, we propose targeted research priorities for MP optimization, advocating for scientifically guided implementation in commercial cyprinid aquaculture. Full article

In ex situ conservation, gut bacteria and fungi play a crucial role in maintaining the intestinal microecological balance of the gut, and disruptions in this system may negatively impact host health. The South China tiger (Panthera tigris amoyensis) is a critically endangered tiger subspecies currently surviving under human-managed care and captive breeding programs, with only a small number of individuals remaining. Disruption in the gut microbiota, particularly the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, can be fatal for cubs. This study analyzed the composition and seasonal changes of the gut bacterial and fungal communities of South China tigers in captive and semi-released environments during the winter of 2023 and the summer of 2024, using 16S rRNA and ITS high-throughput sequencing. The results showed that the dominant gut bacteria were Bacillota, Actinomycetota, Fusobacteriota, Pseudomonadota, and Bacteroidota. The abundance of Bacillota decreased in summer and was slightly lower in captive tigers than in semi-released tigers. Fungal communities were dominated by Ascomycota, with a negative correlation observed between Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. The abundance of Ascomycetes was lower in summer but significantly higher in semi-released tigers than in captive ones. Diversity analysis revealed no significant effects of the season or the environment on bacterial α-diversity, and fungal α-diversity was also not significantly affected by seasonal variation. However, microbial diversity increased under semi-free-range conditions, with fungal richness significantly higher than in captive environments (p < 0.01). Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) based on Bray–Curtis distances revealed significant differences in the community structures of both bacterial (Adonis, R² = 0.2364, p = 0.001) and fungal (Adonis, R² = 0.1542, p = 0.001) communities across different seasons and environments. These findings provide valuable insights into the health management strategies and ecological adaptation of South China tigers. Full article

While the application of antibiotics in livestock production has undeniably propelled the rapid growth of animal husbandry, the escalating crisis of antimicrobial resistance stemming from antibiotic use poses significant threats to global public health and sustainable agricultural development. To address this critical challenge, multifaceted strategies have been implemented through coordinated policy interventions and scientific innovations. This review systematically examines two pivotal dimensions: (1) evolving regulatory frameworks governing antibiotic usage and (2) emerging non-antibiotic alternatives, with a particular focus on their implementation mechanisms and technological maturation. The analysis of transnational antibiotic governance encompasses comparative policy evolution in the European Union, the United States, and China. These regulatory paradigms address critical control points including registration management policies, usage monitoring systems, and integrated surveillance programs. Concerning technological alternatives, six categories of antibiotic substitutes are critically evaluated: Chinese herbal formulations, plant-derived essential oils, antimicrobial peptides, microecological agents, acidifiers, and enzyme preparations. These solutions are functionally categorized into prophylactic agents (enhancing disease resilience) and zootechnical additives (optimizing feed efficiency). These antibiotic alternatives demonstrate certain efficacy in alleviating the challenges of antibiotic overuse, yet they still face multiple implementation barriers. Further investigations are warranted to establish standardized efficacy evaluation protocols and conduct technoeconomic feasibility assessments under commercial-scale production conditions. Ultimately, resolving the antibiotic dilemma requires synergistic collaboration between regulatory bodies, pharmaceutical innovators, and academic researchers. This work emphasizes the crucial interplay between evidence-based policymaking and technological advancement in shaping sustainable livestock production systems. Full article

The study of the fungal communities of the skin constitutes a pivotal component of skin microbiome research. Within these communities, the genus Malassezia stands out as a major constituent, representing 50% to 80% of the total fungal colonization on the skin of healthy individuals. The excessive growth or metabolic irregularities of this genus are intimately connected with the onset of various skin disorders that are intrinsically linked to its lipid-dependent nature. Cutaneous lipid metabolism is indispensable for maintaining the skin barrier function and skin health. Malassezia possesses the ability to encode multiple lipase genes, and the secretion of these lipases plays a pivotal role in the survival strategies of the fungi. This review explores recent advances in the ecological niche of Malassezia in skin microecological homeostasis, its mechanism of disrupting skin lipids through catabolic metabolites, and the relationship between this disruption of the skin lipid barrier and skin diseases. This review offers a reference for future research on the mechanisms by which Malassezia affects lipid metabolism and provides a theoretical foundation for the development of innovative therapeutic approaches for dermatological conditions. Full article

Anthracnose is a widespread plant disease affecting vegetables, flowers, crops, and fruit trees, causing significant economic losses. It occurs at various stages of pepper growth, leading to rotting and shedding in later stages. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship with anthracnose occurrence by analyzing the physicochemical properties and microbiota changes in the inter-root soil of pepper under different susceptibility levels to reveal the key microecological factors and dominant microbial populations and to provide reference for ecological control. Illumina Miseq sequencing was first used to evaluate the physicochemical properties and microbial taxa in pepper inter-root soil across different health statuses and identify key parameters associated with anthracnose. Subsequently, PICRUSt2 (systematic genetic Investigation of communities by Reconstruction of observed States 2) and FUNGuild (Fungi Functional Guild) V1.0 online platform were used to predict the activities of inter-root bacteria and fungi. The findings indicated that healthy peppers had significantly higher inter-root soil nutrient levels and enzyme activity compared to sensitive peppers. There were significant differences between their community structures. In alpha-diversity analysis, inter-root soil microbial richness and diversity were significantly higher in healthy peppers than in susceptible peppers. At the bacterial taxonomic level, the comparative prevalence of Acidobacteria in highly resistant plants, resistant plants, and susceptible plants decreased sequentially. At the genus level, the relative abundance of Vicinamibacteraceae and RB41 was markedly elevated in disease-resistant inter-root soils than in disease-susceptible soils. At the fungal level, the comparative prevalence of Ascomycetes in highly resistant plants, resistant plants, and susceptible plants increased sequentially. Differences in function are mainly manifested in apoptosis and mycelial development. Full article

As a consequence of the European Union introducing the prohibition of supplying antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in diets in 2006, antibiotic alternatives for poultry feed have become one of the most central issues. In general, probiotics and prebiotics are highly effective additives that improve host health and prevent pathogen colonization by modulating immune functions, altering the intestinal microecology, and enhancing digestion. However, the specific situations in which probiotics or prebiotics should be used still require further research. In addition, the advanced applications of probiotics and prebiotics, such as in ovo injection, also need to be investigated to improve the host performance. In the following review, we summarize various probiotic and prebiotic supplementation methods and compare the specific conditions for their use to improve poultry production management. Full article

The intake of oleic acid-rich fats, a hallmark of the Mediterranean diet, has well-documented beneficial effects on human metabolic health. One of the key mechanisms underlying these effects is the regulation of gut microbiota structure and function. However, most existing studies focus on gut bacteria, while gut fungi, as a vital component of the gut microbiota, remain largely unexplored. This study compared the effects of regular peanut oil (PO) and high-oleic acid peanut oil (HOPO) on the gut mycobiome and serum metabolome employing ITS high-throughput sequencing and UPLC-MS/MS metabolomics to explore how dietary fatty acid composition influences gut microecology. Both HOPO and PO effectively reversed high-fat, high-fructose diet (HFFD)-induced reductions in gut fungal diversity, with HOPO showing superior efficacy in restoring gut microbiome balance, as reflected by an improved fungal-to-bacterial diversity ratio and reduced abundance of pathogenic fungi such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Candida. Furthermore, HOPO demonstrated a greater ability to normalize serum bile acid levels, including taurochenodesoxycholic acid, and to reverse elevated pantothenol levels, suggesting its potential role in maintaining bile acid metabolism and CoA biosynthesis. In summary, HOPO is more effective than PO in maintaining the normal structure and function of gut mycobiome in HFFD-fed SD rats. Full article

The mammalian gastrointestinal tract is a stage for dynamic inter-kingdom interactions among bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa, which collectively shape the gut micro-ecology and influence host physiology. Despite being a modest fraction, the fungal community, also referred to as mycobiota, represents a critical component of the gut microbiota. Emerging evidence suggests that fungi act as early colonizers of the intestine, exerting a lasting influence on gut development. Meanwhile, the composition of the mycobiota is influenced by multiple factors, with diet, nutrition, drug use (e.g., antimicrobials), and physical condition standing as primary drivers. During its establishment, the mycobiota forms both antagonistic and synergistic relationships with bacterial communities within the host. For instance, intestinal fungi can inhibit bacterial colonization by producing alcohol, while certain bacterial pathogens exploit fungal iron carriers to enhance their growth. However, the regulatory mechanisms governing these complex interactions remain poorly understood. In this review, we first introduce the methodologies for studying the microbiota, then address the significance of the mycobiota in the mammalian intestine, especially during weaning when all ‘primary drivers’ change, and, finally, discuss interactions between fungi and bacteria under various influencing factors. Our review aims to shed light on the complex inter-kingdom dynamics between fungi and bacteria in gut homeostasis and provide insights into how they can be better understood and managed to improve host health and disease outcomes. Full article

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common pathogen that causes diarrhea in newborns and animals. Antibiotics are typically used to treat bacterial diarrhea, a global intestinal health issue. Probiotics have gained interest as a potential substitute for antibiotics in the management of E. coli-induced diarrhea and present novel therapeutic options. In this study, the probiotic properties of Lactobacillus agilis SNF7 (L. agilis SNF7) isolated from feces were investigated, and whole genome sequencing was performed to evaluate the properties of the strain. Furthermore, we investigated the protective effects of L. agilis SNF7 in a mouse model of E. coli K99 infection. L. agilis SNF7 exhibits a high survival rate in artificial gastroenteric fluid and bile salt environments, along with an antagonistic effect against E. coli O₁₁₁:K₅₈ (B₄), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and E. coli K99. Multiple genes with probiotic properties, including bacteriostasis, anti-inflammation, antioxidant, CAZyme, and the utilization of carbohydrate compounds, were identified in genome. L. agilis SNF7 prevented the gut barrier from being damaged by E. coli K99, reducing the clinical manifestations of the infection. Furthermore, L. agilis SNF7 reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α) by inhibiting the phosphorylation of proteins linked to the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. L. agilis SNF7 improved the intestinal microbial barrier, controlled the balance of the intestinal microecology, and reduced the entry of harmful microbes into the intestine. By controlling gut flora and reducing the inflammatory response, L. agilis SNF7 may be able to prevent and treat E. coli K99 infections. The application of L. agilis SNF7 in the creation of probiotic formulations to stop intestinal illnesses brought on by E. coli infections is clarified by this work. Full article

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Mosla chinensis extract (MCE) on broiler intestinal health. A total of 240 1-day-old Arbor Acres (AA) broilers (balanced for sex) were randomly allocated into four treatment groups, each with six replicates of 10 chickens. The study comprised a starter phase (days 1–21) and a grower phase (days 22–42). The control group (C) received a basal diet, while the experimental groups were supplemented with low (S1, 500 mg/kg), medium (S2, 1000 mg/kg), and high doses (S3, 2000 mg/kg) of MCE. The results showed that MCE supplementation significantly improved average daily gain in broilers (p < 0.05) and reduced the feed-to-gain ratio in broilers. Additionally, MCE enhanced the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacity of broilers. In the duodenum and cecum, MCE significantly upregulated the expression of tight junction proteins Claudin-1, and Occludin, with the high-dose group showing the strongest effect on intestinal barrier protection (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in ZO-1 in dudenum (p > 0.05). Microbial analysis indicated that MCE supplementation significantly reduced the Chao and Sobs indices in both the small and large intestines (p < 0.05). At the same time, the Coverage index of the small intestine increased, with the high-dose group demonstrating the most pronounced effect. Beta diversity analysis revealed that MCE had a significant modulatory effect on the microbial composition in the large intestine (p < 0.05), with a comparatively smaller impact on the small intestine. Furthermore, MCE supplementation significantly increased the relative abundance of Ruminococcaceae and Alistipes in the large intestine, along with beneficial genera that promote short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, thus optimizing the gut microecological environment. Correlation analysis of SCFAs further confirmed a significant association between the enriched microbiota and the production of acetate, propionate, and butyrate (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with MCE promotes healthy growth and feed intake in broilers and exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. By optimizing gut microbiota composition, enhancing intestinal barrier function, and promoting SCFA production, MCE effectively maintains gut microecological balance, supporting broiler intestinal health. Full article

Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. is considered an important medicinal herb with extremely high economic value and medicinal value due to its various effects, including anti-oxidation, sedative action, hepatoprotection, and invigorating blood circulation. However, L. chuanxiong cultivation is hampered by various plant diseases, especially the root rot caused by Fusarium solani, hindering the sustainable development of the L. chuanxiong industry. The occurrence of soil-borne diseases is closely linked to imbalances in the microbial community structure. Here, we studied the yields, rhizosphere microbiota, and soil physiochemical characteristics of healthy and diseased L. chuanxiong plants affected by root rot with high-throughput sequencing and microbial network analysis, aiming to explore the relationships between soil environmental factors, microbiomes, and plant health of L. chuanxiong. According to the results, L. chuanxiong root rot significantly decreased the yields, altered microbial community diversity and composition, enriched more pathogenic fungi, recruited some beneficial bacteria, and reduced microbial interaction network stability. The Mantel test showed that soil organic matter and pH were the major environmental factors modulating plant microbiome assembly. The root rot severity was significantly affected by soil physiochemical properties, including organic matter, cation exchange capacity, available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and pH. Furthermore, two differential microbes that have great potential in the biocontrol of L. chuanxiong root rot were dug out in the obtained results, which were the genera Trichoderma and Bacillus. This study provided a theoretical basis for further studies revealing the microecological mechanism of L. chuanxiong root rot and the ecological prevention and control of L. chuanxiong root rot from a microbial ecology perspective. Full article