Polymyxin B(PMB)is considered as the last line of antibiotic defense available to humans.The environmental effects of the combined pollution with PMB and heavy metals and their interaction mechanisms are unclear.We ex...Polymyxin B(PMB)is considered as the last line of antibiotic defense available to humans.The environmental effects of the combined pollution with PMB and heavy metals and their interaction mechanisms are unclear.We explored the effects of the combined pollution with PMB and arsenic(As)on the microbial composition of the soil and in the earthworm gut,as well as the spread and transmission of antibiotic resistance genes(ARGs).The results showed that,compared with As alone,the combined addition of PMB and As could significantly increase the bioaccumulation factor and toxicity of As in earthworm tissues by 12.1%and 16.0%,respectively.PMB treatment could significantly increase the abundance of Actinobacteria in the earthworm gut(from 35.6%to 45.2%),and As stress could significantly increase the abundance of Proteobacteria(from 19.8%to 56.9%).PMB and As stress both could significantly increase the abundance of ARGs and mobile genetic elements(MGEs),which were positively correlated,indicating that ARGs might be horizontally transferred.The inactivation of antibiotics was the main resistance mechanism that microbes use to resist PMB and As stress.Network analysis showed that PMB and As might have antagonistic effects through competition with multi-drug resistant ARGs.The combined pollution by PMB and As significantly promoted the relative abundance of microbes carrying multi-drug resistant ARGs and MGEs,thereby increasing the risk of transmission of ARGs.This research advances the understanding of the interaction mechanism between antibiotics and heavy metals and provides new theoretical guidance for the environmental risk assessment and combined pollution management.展开更多
Intracerebral hemorrhage is the most dangerous subtype of stroke,characterized by high mortality and morbidity rates,and frequently leads to significant secondary white matter injury.In recent decades,studies have rev...Intracerebral hemorrhage is the most dangerous subtype of stroke,characterized by high mortality and morbidity rates,and frequently leads to significant secondary white matter injury.In recent decades,studies have revealed that gut microbiota can communicate bidirectionally with the brain through the gut microbiota–brain axis.This axis indicates that gut microbiota is closely related to the development and prognosis of intracerebral hemorrhage and its associated secondary white matter injury.The NACHT,LRR,and pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome plays a crucial role in this context.This review summarizes the dysbiosis of gut microbiota following intracerebral hemorrhage and explores the mechanisms by which this imbalance may promote the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome.These mechanisms include metabolic pathways(involving short-chain fatty acids,lipopolysaccharides,lactic acid,bile acids,trimethylamine-N-oxide,and tryptophan),neural pathways(such as the vagus nerve and sympathetic nerve),and immune pathways(involving microglia and T cells).We then discuss the relationship between the activated NLRP3 inflammasome and secondary white matter injury after intracerebral hemorrhage.The activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome can exacerbate secondary white matter injury by disrupting the blood–brain barrier,inducing neuroinflammation,and interfering with nerve regeneration.Finally,we outline potential treatment strategies for intracerebral hemorrhage and its secondary white matter injury.Our review highlights the critical role of the gut microbiota–brain axis and the NLRP3 inflammasome in white matter injury following intracerebral hemorrhage,paving the way for exploring potential therapeutic approaches.展开更多
Short-chain fatty acids,metabolites produced by the fermentation of dietary fiber by gut microbiota,have garnered significant attention due to their correlation with neurodegenerative diseases,particularly Parkinson’...Short-chain fatty acids,metabolites produced by the fermentation of dietary fiber by gut microbiota,have garnered significant attention due to their correlation with neurodegenerative diseases,particularly Parkinson’s disease.In this review,we summarize the changes in short-chain fatty acid levels and the abundance of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria in various samples from patients with Parkinson’s disease,highlighting the critical role of gut homeostasis imbalance in the pathogenesis and progression of the disease.Focusing on the nervous system,we discuss the molecular mechanisms by which short-chain fatty acids influence the homeostasis of both the enteric nervous system and the central nervous system.We identify key processes,including the activation of G protein-coupled receptors and the inhibition of histone deacetylases by short-chain fatty acids.Importantly,structural or functional disruptions in the enteric nervous system mediated by these fatty acids may lead to abnormalα-synuclein expression and gastrointestinal dysmotility,which could serve as an initiating event in Parkinson’s disease.Furthermore,we propose that short-chain fatty acids help establish communication between the enteric nervous system and the central nervous system via the vagal nerve,immune circulation,and endocrine signaling.This communication may shed light on their potential role in the transmission ofα-synuclein from the gut to the brain.Finally,we elucidate novel treatment strategies for Parkinson’s disease that target short-chain fatty acids and examine the challenges associated with translating short-chain fatty acid-based therapies into clinical practice.In conclusion,this review emphasizes the pivotal role of short-chain fatty acids in regulating gut-brain axis integrity and their significance in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease from the perspective of the nervous system.Moreover,it highlights the potential value of short-chain fatty acids in early intervention for Parkinson’s disease.Future research into the molecular mechanisms of short-chain fatty acids and their synergistic interactions with other gut metabolites is likely to advance the clinical translation of innovative short-chain fatty acid-based therapies for Parkinson’s disease.展开更多
In this study,a novel polysaccharide GPA-G 2-H was derived from ginseng.Furthermore,the coherent study of its structural characteristics,fermented characteristics in vitro,as well as antioxidant mechanism of fermented...In this study,a novel polysaccharide GPA-G 2-H was derived from ginseng.Furthermore,the coherent study of its structural characteristics,fermented characteristics in vitro,as well as antioxidant mechanism of fermented product FGPA-G 2-H on Aβ25-35-induced PC 12 cells were explored.The structure of GPA-G 2-H was determined by means of zeta potential analysis,FTIR,HPLC,XRD,GC-MS and NMR.The backbone of GPA-G 2-H was mainly composed of→4)-α-D-Glcp-(1→with branches substituted at O-3.Notably,GPA-G 2-H was degraded by intestinal microbiota in vitro with total sugar content and pH value decreasing,and short-chain fatty acids(SCFAs)increasing.Moreover,GPA-G 2-H significantly promoted the proliferation of Lactobacillus,Muribaculaceae and Weissella,thereby making positive alterations in intestinal microbiota composition.Additionally,FGPA-G 2-H activated the Nrf 2/HO-1 signaling pathway,enhanced HO-1,NQO 1,SOD and GSH-Px,while inhabited Keap 1,MDA and LDH,which alleviated Aβ-induced oxidative stress in PC 12 cells.These provide a solid theoretical basis for the further development of ginseng polysaccharides as functional food and antioxidant drugs.展开更多
BACKGROUND:Breast hyperplasia is a common benign breast disease mainly caused by endocrine disorders,manifested as abnormal hyperplasia of breast tissue.In recent years,traditional Chinese medicine compounds and probi...BACKGROUND:Breast hyperplasia is a common benign breast disease mainly caused by endocrine disorders,manifested as abnormal hyperplasia of breast tissue.In recent years,traditional Chinese medicine compounds and probiotics have shown good potential in regulating the endocrine system and improving the intestinal microecology,providing new ideas for the treatment of breast hyperplasia.OBJECTIVE:To explore the effects and mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine compounds and fermented probiotic compounds on breast hyperplasia in mice,providing new theoretical and experimental bases for the clinical treatment and prevention of breast hyperplasia.METHODS:(1)Network pharmacology tools were used to predict the anti-breast-hyperplasia activity of Herba Gueldenstaedtiae(Euphorbia humifusa),as well as its potential targets and signaling pathways.The databases included:TCMSP,OMIM,GeneCards database,UniProt website,Venny2.1.0 website,Metascape,HERB website,and STRING database,all of which are open-access databases.Network pharmacology can predict and screen key information such as the targets corresponding to the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine,disease targets,and action pathways through network analysis and computer-system analysis.Therefore,it has been increasingly widely used in the research of traditional Chinese medicine.(2)A breast hyperplasia model was induced in mice by injecting estrogen and progesterone.Mice in the normal blank group were injected intraperitoneally with normal saline every day.Mice in the model group and drugadministration groups were injected intraperitoneally with estradiol benzoate injection at a concentration of 0.5 mg/kg every day for 25 days.From the 26th day,the injection of estradiol benzoate injection was stopped.Mice in the normal blank group were injected intramuscularly with normal saline every day,and mice in the model group and drug-administration groups were injected intramuscularly with progesterone injection at a concentration of 5 mg/kg for 5 days.After the model was established,each group was given drugs respectively.The normal blank group and the model group were gavaged with 0.2 mL/d of normal saline;the positive blank group(Xiaozheng Pill group)was gavaged with an aqueous solution of Xiaozheng Pill at 0.9 mg/g;the low-,medium-and high-dose groups of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae were gavaged with an aqueous solution of the compound medicine at 0.75,1.5,and 3.0 mg/(g·d)respectively;the low-,medium-and high-dose groups of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation were gavaged with an aqueous solution of the compound medicine at 0.75,1.5,and 3.0 mg/(g·d)respectively.The administration was continuous for 30 days.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)The results of network pharmacology research showed that the Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae(Euphorbia humifusa)contained 46 active ingredients,which were related to 1213 potential targets.After comparison with 588 known breast-hyperplasia targets,it was speculated that 50 of these targets might be related to the direct effect of the compound on breast hyperplasia.(2)After drug intervention,there was no significant change in the high-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae compared with the normal blank group.The liver indicators of the other intervention groups all significantly decreased(P<0.05).(3)In terms of kidney and uterine indicators,the medium-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae decreased significantly compared with the normal blank group(P<0.05).In terms of the uterine index,the model group increased significantly compared with the normal blank group(P<0.01).(4)After 1-month drug treatment,the number of lobules and acini in the breast tissue of the Xiaozheng Pill group,the low,medium,and high-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae,the low,medium,and highdose groups of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation decreased,and the duct openings narrowed.With the increase of drug dose,diffuse hyperplasia of breast tissue was significantly improved.(5)The ELISA results showed that compared with the model group,the estrogen level was lower in the medium-dose group of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation after the intervention(P<0.05).In addition,the follicle-stimulating hormone level in the low-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae was lower than that of the model group(P<0.05).(6)The intervention in the mouse model led to changes in the abundance of short chain fatty acids and intestinal flora in all groups.To conclude,the Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae and its probiotic fermentation products significantly improved mammary gland hyperplasia in mice by regulating hormone levels,improving the structure of the gut microbiota,and increasing the content of shortchain fatty acids,providing new ideas and potential sources of drugs for the treatment of breast hyperplasia.展开更多
Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)infection remains a pivotal driver of chronic gastritis,peptic ulcer,gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma and gastric cancer,yet its eradication is increasingly frustrated by...Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)infection remains a pivotal driver of chronic gastritis,peptic ulcer,gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma and gastric cancer,yet its eradication is increasingly frustrated by climbing antibiotic resistance and intolerable side-effects of standard triple or quadruple therapies.In recent years,fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT),a strategy that reconstructs the gut ecosystem by introducing a healthy donor microbiome,has emerged as a novel adjunct or alternative.By competitively excluding H.pylori,reinforcing mucosal barrier integrity,modulating host immunity and secreting bacteriocins,FMT can raise eradication rates,relieve dyspeptic symptoms and lower recurrence.This review synthesizes up-to-date pre-clinical,pilot and controlled clinical data,dissects underlying mechanisms,compares delivery routes,donor screening protocols and safety profiles,and discusses regulatory,ethical and standardization hurdles that must be overcome before large-scale clinical application.展开更多
Acute pancreatitis(AP)is sudden inflammation of the pancreas,which can lead to multiple organ dysfunction in severe cases.Hypertriglyceridemia(HTG)is the third most common cause.In recent years,HTG-induced AP(HTG-AP)h...Acute pancreatitis(AP)is sudden inflammation of the pancreas,which can lead to multiple organ dysfunction in severe cases.Hypertriglyceridemia(HTG)is the third most common cause.In recent years,HTG-induced AP(HTG-AP)has garnered increasing attention.Compared to AP caused by other causes,HTG-AP often has a more subtle onset but is more likely to progress to a severe,critical illness that poses a serious threat to a patient’s life and health.Research suggests a potential connection between the gut microbiota and AP,which could be mediated by bacterial metabolites,immune cells,and inflammatory factors.This is supported by observations of microbial imbalance and higher intestinal permeability in patients with AP.In addition,studies have shown that HTG-induced changes in gut microbiota can worsen AP by negatively impacting the host metabolism,immune response,and function of the intestinal barrier.In this review,we summarize recent clinical and animal studies on the role and mechanism of gut microbiota in the severity of AP aggravated by HTG.The application prospects of the newly proposed microbial-host-isozyme concept are summarized,focusing on its potential for the precision diagnosis and treatment of HTG-AP through gut microbiota regulation.展开更多
Acute kidney injury(AKI)is a critical condition with limited effective therapies.Akkermansia muciniphila(A.muciniphila)is a probiotic with multiple beneficial effects,including the regulation of epithelial cell tight ...Acute kidney injury(AKI)is a critical condition with limited effective therapies.Akkermansia muciniphila(A.muciniphila)is a probiotic with multiple beneficial effects,including the regulation of epithelial cell tight junctions.Since renal pathophysiology is associated with gut barrier integrity,we hypothesized that A.muciniphila may have preventive effects on AKI.We established a lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced AKI mouse model to evaluate the effects of A.muciniphila.Our findings showed that pretreatment with A.muciniphila significantly attenuated kidney injury,as evidenced by reduced serum creatinine and urea nitrogen levels,alongside decreased tubular necrosis and apoptosis.A.muciniphila preserved intestinal barrier integrity and induced marked shifts in gut microbial ecology and the metabolome.A.muciniphila notably induced an increase in the relative abundance of the phylum Proteobacteria while decreasing in that of the phylum Bacteroidetes.At the genus level,Prevotella,Faecalibaculum,Moraxella,and Lactobacillus were more abundant in A.muciniphilapretreated mice.Metabolomic analysis revealed that A.muciniphila altered the gut metabolome,with changes involving pathways such as tyrosine metabolism,alanine/aspartate/glutamate homeostasis,cancer-related carbon flux,and GABAergic synaptic signaling.In conclusion,our findings indicate that A.muciniphila exerts renoprotective effects by modulating the gut-kidney axis,thereby establishing a foundation for future studies to explore the connection between gut microbiota and AKI.展开更多
Recently,Prevotella spp.,a major genus of gram-negative commensal bacteria in humans,have emerged as a key microbial contributor to host metabolism due to its ability to ferment dietary fibers,produce beneficial short...Recently,Prevotella spp.,a major genus of gram-negative commensal bacteria in humans,have emerged as a key microbial contributor to host metabolism due to its ability to ferment dietary fibers,produce beneficial short-chain fatty acids,and influence immune responses.However,their diversity and functional differences have created challenges for their development and therapeutic use.Recent studies have shown that specific Prevotella species,such as P.copri,P.intestinalis,and P.histicola,can strengthen gut barrier integrity and reduce metabolic imbalances.Notably,Prevotella populations can be increased through high-fiber or herbal-based treatments.Traditional herbal medicines,including fiber-rich decoctions,also demonstrate the potential to boost endogenous Prevotella communities,enhance microbial fermentation,and improve glucose and lipid balance.This perspective examines the context-dependent roles of Prevotella spp.,with emphasis on the functional heterogeneity of key species such as P.copri,suggests a framework for combining herbal modulation with species-level microbiota profiling,and outlines a research plan to explore microbe-herb synergy in treating obesity,type 2 diabetes,and related metabolic disorders.This strategy offers a new,ecology-based approach to complement standard metabolic interventions.展开更多
Indicaxanthin is a betalain that is abundant in Opuntia ficus-indica orange fruit and has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, very little is known about the neuroprotective potential of indicaxa...Indicaxanthin is a betalain that is abundant in Opuntia ficus-indica orange fruit and has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, very little is known about the neuroprotective potential of indicaxanthin. This study investigated the impact of indicaxanthin on neuronal damage and gut microbiota dysbiosis induced by a high-fat diet in mice. The mice were divided into three groups according to different diets: the negative control group was fed a standard diet;the high-fat diet group was fed a high-fat diet;and the high-fat diet + indicaxanthin group was fed a high-fat diet and received indicaxanthin orally(0.86 mg/kg per day) for 4 weeks. Brain apoptosis, redox status, inflammation, and the gut microbiota composition were compared among the different animal groups. The results demonstrated that indicaxanthin treatment reduced neuronal apoptosis by downregulating the expression of proapoptotic genes and increasing the expression of antiapoptotic genes. Indicaxanthin also markedly decreased the expression of neuroinflammatory proteins and genes and inhibited high-fat diet–induced neuronal oxidative stress by reducing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, malondialdehyde, and nitric oxide levels. In addition, indicaxanthin treatment improved the microflora composition by increasing the abundance of healthy bacterial genera, known as producers of short-chain fatty acids(Lachnospiraceae, Alloprovetella, and Lactobacillus), and by reducing bacteria related to unhealthy profiles(Blautia, Faecalibaculum, Romboutsia and Bilophila). In conclusion, indicaxanthin has a positive effect on high-fat diet–induced neuronal damage and on the gut microbiota composition in obese mice.展开更多
BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and treatment-resistant disorder requiring potent therapeutics that are effective and safe.Cedrol(CE)is a bioactive natural product present in many traditional Chinese med...BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and treatment-resistant disorder requiring potent therapeutics that are effective and safe.Cedrol(CE)is a bioactive natural product present in many traditional Chinese medicines.It is known for its suppression of inflammation and mitigation of oxidative stress.Its therapeutic efficacy and mechanistic underpinnings in UC remain uncharacterized.AIM To investigate the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of CE in UC.METHODS The anti-inflammatory activity and intestinal barrier-repairing effects of CE were assessed in a dextran sulfate sodium-induced murine colitis model.Network pharmacology was employed to predict potential targets and pathways.Then molecular docking and dynamics simulations were utilized to confirm a stable interaction between CE and the toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 2(MD2)complex.The anti-inflammatory mechanisms were further verified using in vitro assays.Additionally,the gut microbiota composition was analyzed via 16S rRNA gene sequencing.RESULTS CE significantly alleviated colitis symptoms,mitigated histopathological damage,and suppressed inflammation.Moreover,CE restored intestinal barrier integrity by enhancing mucus secretion and upregulating tight junction proteins(zonula occludens 1,occludin,claudin-1).Mechanistically,CE stably bound to MD2,inhibiting lipopolysaccharide-induced TLR4 signaling in RAW264.7 cells.This led to suppression of the downstream mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathways,downregulating the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha,interleukin-1β,and interleukin-6.Gut microbiota analysis revealed that CE reversed dextran sulfate sodium-induced dysbiosis with significant enrichment of butyrogenic Christensenella minuta.CONCLUSION CE acted on MD2 to suppress proinflammatory cascades,promoting mucosal barrier reconstitution and microbiota remodeling and supporting its therapeutic use in UC.展开更多
Colorectal cancer(CRC)is ranked as the third most common tumor globally,representing approximately 10%of all cancer cases,and is the second primary cause of cancer-associated mortality.Existing therapeutic approaches ...Colorectal cancer(CRC)is ranked as the third most common tumor globally,representing approximately 10%of all cancer cases,and is the second primary cause of cancer-associated mortality.Existing therapeutic approaches demonstrate limited efficacy against CRC,partially due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment(TME).In recent years,substantial evidence indicates that dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and its metabolic products is closely associated with the initiation,progression,and prognostic outcomes of CRC.In this minireview,we systematically elaborate on how these microbes and their metabolites directly impair intestinal epithelial integrity,activate cancer-associated fibroblasts,remodel tumor vasculature,and critically,sculpt an immunosuppressive landscape by modulating T cells,dendritic cells,and tumor-associated macrophages.We highlight the translational potential of targeting the gut microbiota,including fecal microbiota transplantation,probiotics,and engineered microbial systems,to reprogram the TME and overcome resistance to immunotherapy and chemotherapy.A deeper understanding of the microbiota-TME axis is essential for developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic paradigms for CRC.展开更多
Clostridioides difficile(C.difficile)is one of the major causes of nosocomial infections.Pregnant women,who are generally considered at low risk for C.difficile infection(CDI),have attracted attention because of an in...Clostridioides difficile(C.difficile)is one of the major causes of nosocomial infections.Pregnant women,who are generally considered at low risk for C.difficile infection(CDI),have attracted attention because of an increasing number of reports.Oral vancomycin,the only first-line treatment for pregnant women infected with C.difficile,has been associated with increasing strain resistance,leading to decreased efficacy.Fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT)is recommended for severe,fulminant,and recurrent CDI;however,it is generally avoided in pregnant women because of safety concerns.We report a case of a pregnant woman with a primary ribotype 027 CDI who experienced a successful outcome with washed microbiota transplantation(WMT),an improved form of FMT,via enema.The specific strain of ribotype 027 is related to severe outcomes but has not previously been reported in pregnant women.The follow-up lasted for two years,during which the patient's diarrhea was fully alleviated without recurrence.The baby showed normal growth and development,and no adverse events were recorded for either.This case provides evidence for the efficacy and safety of WMT in pregnant women infected with C.difficile,indicating that WMT via enema may be a viable therapeutic strategy for this population for treating CDI.展开更多
The gut microbiota:The human body is colonized by a diverse and complex microbial community–including bacteria,viruses,archaea,and unicellular eukaryotes–that plays a central role in human wellbeing.Indeed,microbiot...The gut microbiota:The human body is colonized by a diverse and complex microbial community–including bacteria,viruses,archaea,and unicellular eukaryotes–that plays a central role in human wellbeing.Indeed,microbiota is crucial for several functions,including host metabolism,physiology,maintenance of the intestinal epithelial integrity,nutrition,and immune function,earning it the designation of a“vital organ”(Guinane and Cotter,2013).展开更多
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha is a member of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily and functions as a transcription factor involved in regulating cellular metabolism.Previous studies have shown t...Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha is a member of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily and functions as a transcription factor involved in regulating cellular metabolism.Previous studies have shown that PPARαplays a key role in the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases.Consequently,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha agonists have garnered increasing attention as potential treatments for neurological disorders.This review aims to clarify the research progress regarding peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha in nervous system diseases.Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha is present in all cell types within adult mouse and adult neural tissues.Although it is conventionally believed to be primarily localized in the nucleus,its function may be regulated by a dynamic balance between cytoplasmic and nuclear shuttling.Both endogenous and exogenous peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha agonists bind to the peroxisome proliferator-activated response element to exert their biological effects.Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha plays a significant therapeutic role in neurodegenerative diseases.For instance,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha agonist gemfibrozil has been shown to reduce levels of soluble and insoluble amyloid-beta in the hippocampus of Alzheimer's disease mouse models through the autophagy-lysosomal pathway.Additionally,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha is essential for the normal development and functional maintenance of the substantia nigra,and it can mitigate motor dysfunction in Parkinson's disease mouse models.Furthermore,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha has been found to reduce neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in various neurological diseases.In summary,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha plays a crucial role in the onset and progression of multiple nervous system diseases,and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha agonists hold promise as new therapeutic agents for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases,providing new options for patient care.展开更多
We read with great interest the study by Zhang et al on Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang powder(YFB),which exemplifies the power of modern methods to validate traditional Chinese medicine(TCM).The key insight is that YFB doesn’t m...We read with great interest the study by Zhang et al on Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang powder(YFB),which exemplifies the power of modern methods to validate traditional Chinese medicine(TCM).The key insight is that YFB doesn’t merely alter“good”or“bad”bacteria but restores the gut microbiota’s holistic equilibrium.This is powerfully shown by its paradoxical reduction of anaerobic probiotics like Bifidobacterium,rectifying the diseased,hypoxic environment,causing their aberrant overgrowth.This challenges the conventional probiotic paradigm and underscores a core TCM principle:Herbal formulas treat disease by restoring the body’s overall functional balance.Future research should focus on the interplay between herbal components,intestinal oxygen,and microbial metabolites to further unravel this sophisticated dialogue.展开更多
Gram-staining distinguishes bacteria into two major groups,Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria,and has become an essential technique in microbiology.However,Gram-staining is not compatible with living cells and t...Gram-staining distinguishes bacteria into two major groups,Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria,and has become an essential technique in microbiology.However,Gram-staining is not compatible with living cells and thus limits its applications.Here,we report the development of a polymyxin B-based fluorescent probe that enables selective labeling of Gram-negative in the living microbiota samples.We first synthesized the polymyxin B-Cy3 conjugate and confirmed its specificity for labeling Gram-negative bacteria.In combination with a previously developed Gram-positive-specific fluorescent probe,we demonstrate two-color imaging of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in various kinds living microbiotas,including mouse gut,human oral,soil,and crude oil microbiotas,with high selectivity and coverage.Finally,a pilot use of the probes in staining bacteria on heat-fixed sputum smear was also demonstrated,showing its potentials in clinical microbiology.Our method provides a versatile tool for distinguishing Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in both basic research and clinical settings.展开更多
Gut microbiota of four economically important Asian carp species(silver carp, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix; bighead carp,Hypophthalmichthys nobilis; grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella; common carp, Cyprinus carpio) we...Gut microbiota of four economically important Asian carp species(silver carp, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix; bighead carp,Hypophthalmichthys nobilis; grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella; common carp, Cyprinus carpio) were compared using 16 S rRNA gene pyrosequencing. Analysis of more than 590,000 quality-filtered sequences obtained from the foregut, midgut and hindgut of these four carp species revealed high microbial diversity among the samples. The foregut samples of grass carp exhibited more than 1,600 operational taxonomy units(OTUs) and the highest alpha-diversity index, followed by the silver carp foregut and midgut. Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Fusobacteria were the predominant phyla regardless of fish species or gut type. Pairwise(weighted) UniFrac distance-based permutational multivariate analysis of variance with fish species as a factor produced significant association(P<0.01). The gut microbiotas of all four carp species harbored saccharolytic or proteolytic microbes, likely in response to the differences in their feeding habits. In addition, extensive variations were also observed even within the same fish species. Our results indicate that the gut microbiotas of Asian carp depend on the exact species, even when the different species were cohabiting in the same environment. This study provides some new insights into developing commercial fish feeds and improving existing aquaculture strategies.展开更多
The cGAS–STING pathway plays an important role in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart,liver,brain,and kidney,but its role and mechanisms in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury have not been systematically revie...The cGAS–STING pathway plays an important role in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart,liver,brain,and kidney,but its role and mechanisms in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury have not been systematically reviewed.Here,we outline the components of the cGAS–STING pathway and then analyze its role in autophagy,ferroptosis,cellular pyroptosis,disequilibrium of calcium homeostasis,inflammatory responses,disruption of the blood–brain barrier,microglia transformation,and complement system activation following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.We further analyze the value of cGAS–STING pathway inhibitors in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and conclude that the pathway can regulate cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury through multiple mechanisms.Inhibition of the cGAS–STING pathway may be helpful in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.展开更多
With the rapidly aging human population,age-related cognitive decline and dementia are becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide.Aging is considered the main risk factor for cognitive decline and acts through alterati...With the rapidly aging human population,age-related cognitive decline and dementia are becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide.Aging is considered the main risk factor for cognitive decline and acts through alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota,microbial metabolites,and the functions of astrocytes.The microbiota–gut–brain axis has been the focus of multiple studies and is closely associated with cognitive function.This article provides a comprehensive review of the specific changes that occur in the composition of the gut microbiota and microbial metabolites in older individuals and discusses how the aging of astrocytes and reactive astrocytosis are closely related to age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.This article also summarizes the gut microbiota components that affect astrocyte function,mainly through the vagus nerve,immune responses,circadian rhythms,and microbial metabolites.Finally,this article summarizes the mechanism by which the gut microbiota–astrocyte axis plays a role in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.Our findings have revealed the critical role of the microbiota–astrocyte axis in age-related cognitive decline,aiding in a deeper understanding of potential gut microbiome-based adjuvant therapy strategies for this condition.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.41991332 and 41977323).
文摘Polymyxin B(PMB)is considered as the last line of antibiotic defense available to humans.The environmental effects of the combined pollution with PMB and heavy metals and their interaction mechanisms are unclear.We explored the effects of the combined pollution with PMB and arsenic(As)on the microbial composition of the soil and in the earthworm gut,as well as the spread and transmission of antibiotic resistance genes(ARGs).The results showed that,compared with As alone,the combined addition of PMB and As could significantly increase the bioaccumulation factor and toxicity of As in earthworm tissues by 12.1%and 16.0%,respectively.PMB treatment could significantly increase the abundance of Actinobacteria in the earthworm gut(from 35.6%to 45.2%),and As stress could significantly increase the abundance of Proteobacteria(from 19.8%to 56.9%).PMB and As stress both could significantly increase the abundance of ARGs and mobile genetic elements(MGEs),which were positively correlated,indicating that ARGs might be horizontally transferred.The inactivation of antibiotics was the main resistance mechanism that microbes use to resist PMB and As stress.Network analysis showed that PMB and As might have antagonistic effects through competition with multi-drug resistant ARGs.The combined pollution by PMB and As significantly promoted the relative abundance of microbes carrying multi-drug resistant ARGs and MGEs,thereby increasing the risk of transmission of ARGs.This research advances the understanding of the interaction mechanism between antibiotics and heavy metals and provides new theoretical guidance for the environmental risk assessment and combined pollution management.
基金supported by the Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation,No.2023A1515030045(to HS)Presidential Foundation of Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University,No.yzjj2022ms4(to HS)。
文摘Intracerebral hemorrhage is the most dangerous subtype of stroke,characterized by high mortality and morbidity rates,and frequently leads to significant secondary white matter injury.In recent decades,studies have revealed that gut microbiota can communicate bidirectionally with the brain through the gut microbiota–brain axis.This axis indicates that gut microbiota is closely related to the development and prognosis of intracerebral hemorrhage and its associated secondary white matter injury.The NACHT,LRR,and pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome plays a crucial role in this context.This review summarizes the dysbiosis of gut microbiota following intracerebral hemorrhage and explores the mechanisms by which this imbalance may promote the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome.These mechanisms include metabolic pathways(involving short-chain fatty acids,lipopolysaccharides,lactic acid,bile acids,trimethylamine-N-oxide,and tryptophan),neural pathways(such as the vagus nerve and sympathetic nerve),and immune pathways(involving microglia and T cells).We then discuss the relationship between the activated NLRP3 inflammasome and secondary white matter injury after intracerebral hemorrhage.The activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome can exacerbate secondary white matter injury by disrupting the blood–brain barrier,inducing neuroinflammation,and interfering with nerve regeneration.Finally,we outline potential treatment strategies for intracerebral hemorrhage and its secondary white matter injury.Our review highlights the critical role of the gut microbiota–brain axis and the NLRP3 inflammasome in white matter injury following intracerebral hemorrhage,paving the way for exploring potential therapeutic approaches.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China,No.2021YFC2501200(to PC).
文摘Short-chain fatty acids,metabolites produced by the fermentation of dietary fiber by gut microbiota,have garnered significant attention due to their correlation with neurodegenerative diseases,particularly Parkinson’s disease.In this review,we summarize the changes in short-chain fatty acid levels and the abundance of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria in various samples from patients with Parkinson’s disease,highlighting the critical role of gut homeostasis imbalance in the pathogenesis and progression of the disease.Focusing on the nervous system,we discuss the molecular mechanisms by which short-chain fatty acids influence the homeostasis of both the enteric nervous system and the central nervous system.We identify key processes,including the activation of G protein-coupled receptors and the inhibition of histone deacetylases by short-chain fatty acids.Importantly,structural or functional disruptions in the enteric nervous system mediated by these fatty acids may lead to abnormalα-synuclein expression and gastrointestinal dysmotility,which could serve as an initiating event in Parkinson’s disease.Furthermore,we propose that short-chain fatty acids help establish communication between the enteric nervous system and the central nervous system via the vagal nerve,immune circulation,and endocrine signaling.This communication may shed light on their potential role in the transmission ofα-synuclein from the gut to the brain.Finally,we elucidate novel treatment strategies for Parkinson’s disease that target short-chain fatty acids and examine the challenges associated with translating short-chain fatty acid-based therapies into clinical practice.In conclusion,this review emphasizes the pivotal role of short-chain fatty acids in regulating gut-brain axis integrity and their significance in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease from the perspective of the nervous system.Moreover,it highlights the potential value of short-chain fatty acids in early intervention for Parkinson’s disease.Future research into the molecular mechanisms of short-chain fatty acids and their synergistic interactions with other gut metabolites is likely to advance the clinical translation of innovative short-chain fatty acid-based therapies for Parkinson’s disease.
基金Supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization Project,China(No.2023YFC3504000)the Science and Technology Development Project of Jilin Province,China(No.20240404043ZP)the Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Project of Changchun Science and Technology Bureau and Chinese Academy of Sciences,China(No.23SH14)。
文摘In this study,a novel polysaccharide GPA-G 2-H was derived from ginseng.Furthermore,the coherent study of its structural characteristics,fermented characteristics in vitro,as well as antioxidant mechanism of fermented product FGPA-G 2-H on Aβ25-35-induced PC 12 cells were explored.The structure of GPA-G 2-H was determined by means of zeta potential analysis,FTIR,HPLC,XRD,GC-MS and NMR.The backbone of GPA-G 2-H was mainly composed of→4)-α-D-Glcp-(1→with branches substituted at O-3.Notably,GPA-G 2-H was degraded by intestinal microbiota in vitro with total sugar content and pH value decreasing,and short-chain fatty acids(SCFAs)increasing.Moreover,GPA-G 2-H significantly promoted the proliferation of Lactobacillus,Muribaculaceae and Weissella,thereby making positive alterations in intestinal microbiota composition.Additionally,FGPA-G 2-H activated the Nrf 2/HO-1 signaling pathway,enhanced HO-1,NQO 1,SOD and GSH-Px,while inhabited Keap 1,MDA and LDH,which alleviated Aβ-induced oxidative stress in PC 12 cells.These provide a solid theoretical basis for the further development of ginseng polysaccharides as functional food and antioxidant drugs.
文摘BACKGROUND:Breast hyperplasia is a common benign breast disease mainly caused by endocrine disorders,manifested as abnormal hyperplasia of breast tissue.In recent years,traditional Chinese medicine compounds and probiotics have shown good potential in regulating the endocrine system and improving the intestinal microecology,providing new ideas for the treatment of breast hyperplasia.OBJECTIVE:To explore the effects and mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine compounds and fermented probiotic compounds on breast hyperplasia in mice,providing new theoretical and experimental bases for the clinical treatment and prevention of breast hyperplasia.METHODS:(1)Network pharmacology tools were used to predict the anti-breast-hyperplasia activity of Herba Gueldenstaedtiae(Euphorbia humifusa),as well as its potential targets and signaling pathways.The databases included:TCMSP,OMIM,GeneCards database,UniProt website,Venny2.1.0 website,Metascape,HERB website,and STRING database,all of which are open-access databases.Network pharmacology can predict and screen key information such as the targets corresponding to the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine,disease targets,and action pathways through network analysis and computer-system analysis.Therefore,it has been increasingly widely used in the research of traditional Chinese medicine.(2)A breast hyperplasia model was induced in mice by injecting estrogen and progesterone.Mice in the normal blank group were injected intraperitoneally with normal saline every day.Mice in the model group and drugadministration groups were injected intraperitoneally with estradiol benzoate injection at a concentration of 0.5 mg/kg every day for 25 days.From the 26th day,the injection of estradiol benzoate injection was stopped.Mice in the normal blank group were injected intramuscularly with normal saline every day,and mice in the model group and drug-administration groups were injected intramuscularly with progesterone injection at a concentration of 5 mg/kg for 5 days.After the model was established,each group was given drugs respectively.The normal blank group and the model group were gavaged with 0.2 mL/d of normal saline;the positive blank group(Xiaozheng Pill group)was gavaged with an aqueous solution of Xiaozheng Pill at 0.9 mg/g;the low-,medium-and high-dose groups of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae were gavaged with an aqueous solution of the compound medicine at 0.75,1.5,and 3.0 mg/(g·d)respectively;the low-,medium-and high-dose groups of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation were gavaged with an aqueous solution of the compound medicine at 0.75,1.5,and 3.0 mg/(g·d)respectively.The administration was continuous for 30 days.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)The results of network pharmacology research showed that the Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae(Euphorbia humifusa)contained 46 active ingredients,which were related to 1213 potential targets.After comparison with 588 known breast-hyperplasia targets,it was speculated that 50 of these targets might be related to the direct effect of the compound on breast hyperplasia.(2)After drug intervention,there was no significant change in the high-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae compared with the normal blank group.The liver indicators of the other intervention groups all significantly decreased(P<0.05).(3)In terms of kidney and uterine indicators,the medium-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae decreased significantly compared with the normal blank group(P<0.05).In terms of the uterine index,the model group increased significantly compared with the normal blank group(P<0.01).(4)After 1-month drug treatment,the number of lobules and acini in the breast tissue of the Xiaozheng Pill group,the low,medium,and high-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae,the low,medium,and highdose groups of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation decreased,and the duct openings narrowed.With the increase of drug dose,diffuse hyperplasia of breast tissue was significantly improved.(5)The ELISA results showed that compared with the model group,the estrogen level was lower in the medium-dose group of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation after the intervention(P<0.05).In addition,the follicle-stimulating hormone level in the low-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae was lower than that of the model group(P<0.05).(6)The intervention in the mouse model led to changes in the abundance of short chain fatty acids and intestinal flora in all groups.To conclude,the Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae and its probiotic fermentation products significantly improved mammary gland hyperplasia in mice by regulating hormone levels,improving the structure of the gut microbiota,and increasing the content of shortchain fatty acids,providing new ideas and potential sources of drugs for the treatment of breast hyperplasia.
基金the 2026 Health Commission Fund of Guizhou Province,China.the freestatistics suite for its technical support.
文摘Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)infection remains a pivotal driver of chronic gastritis,peptic ulcer,gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma and gastric cancer,yet its eradication is increasingly frustrated by climbing antibiotic resistance and intolerable side-effects of standard triple or quadruple therapies.In recent years,fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT),a strategy that reconstructs the gut ecosystem by introducing a healthy donor microbiome,has emerged as a novel adjunct or alternative.By competitively excluding H.pylori,reinforcing mucosal barrier integrity,modulating host immunity and secreting bacteriocins,FMT can raise eradication rates,relieve dyspeptic symptoms and lower recurrence.This review synthesizes up-to-date pre-clinical,pilot and controlled clinical data,dissects underlying mechanisms,compares delivery routes,donor screening protocols and safety profiles,and discusses regulatory,ethical and standardization hurdles that must be overcome before large-scale clinical application.
基金Supported by the Innovation Foundation for Doctor Dissertation of Northwestern Polytechnical University,No.CX2023021.
文摘Acute pancreatitis(AP)is sudden inflammation of the pancreas,which can lead to multiple organ dysfunction in severe cases.Hypertriglyceridemia(HTG)is the third most common cause.In recent years,HTG-induced AP(HTG-AP)has garnered increasing attention.Compared to AP caused by other causes,HTG-AP often has a more subtle onset but is more likely to progress to a severe,critical illness that poses a serious threat to a patient’s life and health.Research suggests a potential connection between the gut microbiota and AP,which could be mediated by bacterial metabolites,immune cells,and inflammatory factors.This is supported by observations of microbial imbalance and higher intestinal permeability in patients with AP.In addition,studies have shown that HTG-induced changes in gut microbiota can worsen AP by negatively impacting the host metabolism,immune response,and function of the intestinal barrier.In this review,we summarize recent clinical and animal studies on the role and mechanism of gut microbiota in the severity of AP aggravated by HTG.The application prospects of the newly proposed microbial-host-isozyme concept are summarized,focusing on its potential for the precision diagnosis and treatment of HTG-AP through gut microbiota regulation.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.82470766 to H.M.)the Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Discipline(Laboratory)Cultivation Unit(Grant No.JSDW202206 to C.X.)the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University Clinical Capacity Enhancement Project(Grant No.JSPH-MC-2022-18 to C.X.).
文摘Acute kidney injury(AKI)is a critical condition with limited effective therapies.Akkermansia muciniphila(A.muciniphila)is a probiotic with multiple beneficial effects,including the regulation of epithelial cell tight junctions.Since renal pathophysiology is associated with gut barrier integrity,we hypothesized that A.muciniphila may have preventive effects on AKI.We established a lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced AKI mouse model to evaluate the effects of A.muciniphila.Our findings showed that pretreatment with A.muciniphila significantly attenuated kidney injury,as evidenced by reduced serum creatinine and urea nitrogen levels,alongside decreased tubular necrosis and apoptosis.A.muciniphila preserved intestinal barrier integrity and induced marked shifts in gut microbial ecology and the metabolome.A.muciniphila notably induced an increase in the relative abundance of the phylum Proteobacteria while decreasing in that of the phylum Bacteroidetes.At the genus level,Prevotella,Faecalibaculum,Moraxella,and Lactobacillus were more abundant in A.muciniphilapretreated mice.Metabolomic analysis revealed that A.muciniphila altered the gut metabolome,with changes involving pathways such as tyrosine metabolism,alanine/aspartate/glutamate homeostasis,cancer-related carbon flux,and GABAergic synaptic signaling.In conclusion,our findings indicate that A.muciniphila exerts renoprotective effects by modulating the gut-kidney axis,thereby establishing a foundation for future studies to explore the connection between gut microbiota and AKI.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea(2020R1F1A1074155).
文摘Recently,Prevotella spp.,a major genus of gram-negative commensal bacteria in humans,have emerged as a key microbial contributor to host metabolism due to its ability to ferment dietary fibers,produce beneficial short-chain fatty acids,and influence immune responses.However,their diversity and functional differences have created challenges for their development and therapeutic use.Recent studies have shown that specific Prevotella species,such as P.copri,P.intestinalis,and P.histicola,can strengthen gut barrier integrity and reduce metabolic imbalances.Notably,Prevotella populations can be increased through high-fiber or herbal-based treatments.Traditional herbal medicines,including fiber-rich decoctions,also demonstrate the potential to boost endogenous Prevotella communities,enhance microbial fermentation,and improve glucose and lipid balance.This perspective examines the context-dependent roles of Prevotella spp.,with emphasis on the functional heterogeneity of key species such as P.copri,suggests a framework for combining herbal modulation with species-level microbiota profiling,and outlines a research plan to explore microbe-herb synergy in treating obesity,type 2 diabetes,and related metabolic disorders.This strategy offers a new,ecology-based approach to complement standard metabolic interventions.
基金funding from the European Union -NextGenerationEU through the Italian Ministry of University and Research under PRIN PNRR REG D.R.1718-2022– Project number PRJ-1575 INDICA。
文摘Indicaxanthin is a betalain that is abundant in Opuntia ficus-indica orange fruit and has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, very little is known about the neuroprotective potential of indicaxanthin. This study investigated the impact of indicaxanthin on neuronal damage and gut microbiota dysbiosis induced by a high-fat diet in mice. The mice were divided into three groups according to different diets: the negative control group was fed a standard diet;the high-fat diet group was fed a high-fat diet;and the high-fat diet + indicaxanthin group was fed a high-fat diet and received indicaxanthin orally(0.86 mg/kg per day) for 4 weeks. Brain apoptosis, redox status, inflammation, and the gut microbiota composition were compared among the different animal groups. The results demonstrated that indicaxanthin treatment reduced neuronal apoptosis by downregulating the expression of proapoptotic genes and increasing the expression of antiapoptotic genes. Indicaxanthin also markedly decreased the expression of neuroinflammatory proteins and genes and inhibited high-fat diet–induced neuronal oxidative stress by reducing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, malondialdehyde, and nitric oxide levels. In addition, indicaxanthin treatment improved the microflora composition by increasing the abundance of healthy bacterial genera, known as producers of short-chain fatty acids(Lachnospiraceae, Alloprovetella, and Lactobacillus), and by reducing bacteria related to unhealthy profiles(Blautia, Faecalibaculum, Romboutsia and Bilophila). In conclusion, indicaxanthin has a positive effect on high-fat diet–induced neuronal damage and on the gut microbiota composition in obese mice.
基金Supported by the Provincial Key Cultivation Laboratory for Digestive Disease Research,No.2021SYS13Shanxi Province’s“Si Ge Yi Pi”Science and Technology Driven Medical Innovation Project,No.2021MX03Shanxi Provincial Basic Research Program,No.202403021222423.
文摘BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and treatment-resistant disorder requiring potent therapeutics that are effective and safe.Cedrol(CE)is a bioactive natural product present in many traditional Chinese medicines.It is known for its suppression of inflammation and mitigation of oxidative stress.Its therapeutic efficacy and mechanistic underpinnings in UC remain uncharacterized.AIM To investigate the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of CE in UC.METHODS The anti-inflammatory activity and intestinal barrier-repairing effects of CE were assessed in a dextran sulfate sodium-induced murine colitis model.Network pharmacology was employed to predict potential targets and pathways.Then molecular docking and dynamics simulations were utilized to confirm a stable interaction between CE and the toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 2(MD2)complex.The anti-inflammatory mechanisms were further verified using in vitro assays.Additionally,the gut microbiota composition was analyzed via 16S rRNA gene sequencing.RESULTS CE significantly alleviated colitis symptoms,mitigated histopathological damage,and suppressed inflammation.Moreover,CE restored intestinal barrier integrity by enhancing mucus secretion and upregulating tight junction proteins(zonula occludens 1,occludin,claudin-1).Mechanistically,CE stably bound to MD2,inhibiting lipopolysaccharide-induced TLR4 signaling in RAW264.7 cells.This led to suppression of the downstream mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathways,downregulating the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha,interleukin-1β,and interleukin-6.Gut microbiota analysis revealed that CE reversed dextran sulfate sodium-induced dysbiosis with significant enrichment of butyrogenic Christensenella minuta.CONCLUSION CE acted on MD2 to suppress proinflammatory cascades,promoting mucosal barrier reconstitution and microbiota remodeling and supporting its therapeutic use in UC.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82170638Natural Science Foundation of the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality,No.23ZR1458300+1 种基金Key Discipline Project of Shanghai Municipal Health System,No.2024ZDXK0004and Pujiang Project of Shanghai Magnolia Talent Plan,No.24PJD098.
文摘Colorectal cancer(CRC)is ranked as the third most common tumor globally,representing approximately 10%of all cancer cases,and is the second primary cause of cancer-associated mortality.Existing therapeutic approaches demonstrate limited efficacy against CRC,partially due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment(TME).In recent years,substantial evidence indicates that dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and its metabolic products is closely associated with the initiation,progression,and prognostic outcomes of CRC.In this minireview,we systematically elaborate on how these microbes and their metabolites directly impair intestinal epithelial integrity,activate cancer-associated fibroblasts,remodel tumor vasculature,and critically,sculpt an immunosuppressive landscape by modulating T cells,dendritic cells,and tumor-associated macrophages.We highlight the translational potential of targeting the gut microbiota,including fecal microbiota transplantation,probiotics,and engineered microbial systems,to reprogram the TME and overcome resistance to immunotherapy and chemotherapy.A deeper understanding of the microbiota-TME axis is essential for developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic paradigms for CRC.
基金supported by the Nanjing Medical University Fan Daiming Research Funds for Holistic Integrative Medicine(Grant No.2023-3HIM).
文摘Clostridioides difficile(C.difficile)is one of the major causes of nosocomial infections.Pregnant women,who are generally considered at low risk for C.difficile infection(CDI),have attracted attention because of an increasing number of reports.Oral vancomycin,the only first-line treatment for pregnant women infected with C.difficile,has been associated with increasing strain resistance,leading to decreased efficacy.Fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT)is recommended for severe,fulminant,and recurrent CDI;however,it is generally avoided in pregnant women because of safety concerns.We report a case of a pregnant woman with a primary ribotype 027 CDI who experienced a successful outcome with washed microbiota transplantation(WMT),an improved form of FMT,via enema.The specific strain of ribotype 027 is related to severe outcomes but has not previously been reported in pregnant women.The follow-up lasted for two years,during which the patient's diarrhea was fully alleviated without recurrence.The baby showed normal growth and development,and no adverse events were recorded for either.This case provides evidence for the efficacy and safety of WMT in pregnant women infected with C.difficile,indicating that WMT via enema may be a viable therapeutic strategy for this population for treating CDI.
基金supported by the European Union-Next Generation EU,Mission 4 Component 1,Project Title:“Gut and Neuro Muscular system:investigating the impact of microbiota on nerve regeneration and muscle reinnervation after peripheral nerve injury”,CUP D53D23007770006,MUR:20227YB93W,to GR。
文摘The gut microbiota:The human body is colonized by a diverse and complex microbial community–including bacteria,viruses,archaea,and unicellular eukaryotes–that plays a central role in human wellbeing.Indeed,microbiota is crucial for several functions,including host metabolism,physiology,maintenance of the intestinal epithelial integrity,nutrition,and immune function,earning it the designation of a“vital organ”(Guinane and Cotter,2013).
基金supported by grants from Tianjin Scientific Research Project in Key Areas of Traditional Chinese Medicine,Tianjin Municipal Health Commission,No.2024012(to JL)Tianjin Municipal Education Commission Project,No.2021KJ217(to CS)。
文摘Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha is a member of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily and functions as a transcription factor involved in regulating cellular metabolism.Previous studies have shown that PPARαplays a key role in the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases.Consequently,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha agonists have garnered increasing attention as potential treatments for neurological disorders.This review aims to clarify the research progress regarding peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha in nervous system diseases.Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha is present in all cell types within adult mouse and adult neural tissues.Although it is conventionally believed to be primarily localized in the nucleus,its function may be regulated by a dynamic balance between cytoplasmic and nuclear shuttling.Both endogenous and exogenous peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha agonists bind to the peroxisome proliferator-activated response element to exert their biological effects.Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha plays a significant therapeutic role in neurodegenerative diseases.For instance,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha agonist gemfibrozil has been shown to reduce levels of soluble and insoluble amyloid-beta in the hippocampus of Alzheimer's disease mouse models through the autophagy-lysosomal pathway.Additionally,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha is essential for the normal development and functional maintenance of the substantia nigra,and it can mitigate motor dysfunction in Parkinson's disease mouse models.Furthermore,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha has been found to reduce neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in various neurological diseases.In summary,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha plays a crucial role in the onset and progression of multiple nervous system diseases,and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha agonists hold promise as new therapeutic agents for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases,providing new options for patient care.
文摘We read with great interest the study by Zhang et al on Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang powder(YFB),which exemplifies the power of modern methods to validate traditional Chinese medicine(TCM).The key insight is that YFB doesn’t merely alter“good”or“bad”bacteria but restores the gut microbiota’s holistic equilibrium.This is powerfully shown by its paradoxical reduction of anaerobic probiotics like Bifidobacterium,rectifying the diseased,hypoxic environment,causing their aberrant overgrowth.This challenges the conventional probiotic paradigm and underscores a core TCM principle:Herbal formulas treat disease by restoring the body’s overall functional balance.Future research should focus on the interplay between herbal components,intestinal oxygen,and microbial metabolites to further unravel this sophisticated dialogue.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (21672013, 21425204, 21521003)the National Key Research and Development Projects (2016YFA0501500)
文摘Gram-staining distinguishes bacteria into two major groups,Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria,and has become an essential technique in microbiology.However,Gram-staining is not compatible with living cells and thus limits its applications.Here,we report the development of a polymyxin B-based fluorescent probe that enables selective labeling of Gram-negative in the living microbiota samples.We first synthesized the polymyxin B-Cy3 conjugate and confirmed its specificity for labeling Gram-negative bacteria.In combination with a previously developed Gram-positive-specific fluorescent probe,we demonstrate two-color imaging of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in various kinds living microbiotas,including mouse gut,human oral,soil,and crude oil microbiotas,with high selectivity and coverage.Finally,a pilot use of the probes in staining bacteria on heat-fixed sputum smear was also demonstrated,showing its potentials in clinical microbiology.Our method provides a versatile tool for distinguishing Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in both basic research and clinical settings.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31400109,31372202)the Youth Innovation Promotion Association,Chinese Academy of Sciences(Y22Z07)
文摘Gut microbiota of four economically important Asian carp species(silver carp, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix; bighead carp,Hypophthalmichthys nobilis; grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella; common carp, Cyprinus carpio) were compared using 16 S rRNA gene pyrosequencing. Analysis of more than 590,000 quality-filtered sequences obtained from the foregut, midgut and hindgut of these four carp species revealed high microbial diversity among the samples. The foregut samples of grass carp exhibited more than 1,600 operational taxonomy units(OTUs) and the highest alpha-diversity index, followed by the silver carp foregut and midgut. Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Fusobacteria were the predominant phyla regardless of fish species or gut type. Pairwise(weighted) UniFrac distance-based permutational multivariate analysis of variance with fish species as a factor produced significant association(P<0.01). The gut microbiotas of all four carp species harbored saccharolytic or proteolytic microbes, likely in response to the differences in their feeding habits. In addition, extensive variations were also observed even within the same fish species. Our results indicate that the gut microbiotas of Asian carp depend on the exact species, even when the different species were cohabiting in the same environment. This study provides some new insights into developing commercial fish feeds and improving existing aquaculture strategies.
基金supported by Yuan Du Scholars,Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Second Medical University,No.2022WYFYLCYJ02Weifang Key Laboratory,Weifang Science and Technology Development Plan Project Medical Category,No.2022YX093.
文摘The cGAS–STING pathway plays an important role in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart,liver,brain,and kidney,but its role and mechanisms in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury have not been systematically reviewed.Here,we outline the components of the cGAS–STING pathway and then analyze its role in autophagy,ferroptosis,cellular pyroptosis,disequilibrium of calcium homeostasis,inflammatory responses,disruption of the blood–brain barrier,microglia transformation,and complement system activation following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.We further analyze the value of cGAS–STING pathway inhibitors in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and conclude that the pathway can regulate cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury through multiple mechanisms.Inhibition of the cGAS–STING pathway may be helpful in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
基金supported by the Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem Innovation Foundation,No.22HHXBSS00047(to PL)Graduate Science and Technology Innovation Project of Tianjin,No.2022BKY173(to LZ)Tianjin Municipal Science and Technology Bureau Foundation,No.20201194(to PL).
文摘With the rapidly aging human population,age-related cognitive decline and dementia are becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide.Aging is considered the main risk factor for cognitive decline and acts through alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota,microbial metabolites,and the functions of astrocytes.The microbiota–gut–brain axis has been the focus of multiple studies and is closely associated with cognitive function.This article provides a comprehensive review of the specific changes that occur in the composition of the gut microbiota and microbial metabolites in older individuals and discusses how the aging of astrocytes and reactive astrocytosis are closely related to age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.This article also summarizes the gut microbiota components that affect astrocyte function,mainly through the vagus nerve,immune responses,circadian rhythms,and microbial metabolites.Finally,this article summarizes the mechanism by which the gut microbiota–astrocyte axis plays a role in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.Our findings have revealed the critical role of the microbiota–astrocyte axis in age-related cognitive decline,aiding in a deeper understanding of potential gut microbiome-based adjuvant therapy strategies for this condition.
