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Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases
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Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases

A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Prebiotics and Probiotics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 December 2021) | Viewed by 147187

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Laura Soldati

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy
Interests: clinical nutrition; nutrition in nephrology; immune nutrition in cancer; diabetes; obesity; non communicable diseases
Dr. Luigi Barrea

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Dipartimento di Scienze Umanistiche, Università Telematica Pegaso, Via Porzio, Centro Direzionale, Isola F2, 80143 Napoli, Italy
2. Centro Italiano per la Cura e il Benessere del Paziente con Obesità (C.I.B.O), Unit of Endocrinology, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Federico II University Medical School of Naples, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italy
Interests: metabolic endocrinology; metabolism; nutritional and metabolic diseases; nutrition; clinical endocrinology; clinical nutrition; human nutrition; body composition analysis; dietetics; body composition; bariatric surgery; insulin resistance; anthropometric measurements
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear colleagues,

In the last decade, a variety of in vitro and in vivo model studies have led to the observation that gut microbiota play a pivotal role in both human health and disease. In particular, gut microbiota can influence disorders not only in the intestine, but also in spatially distant districts and organs (e.g., the brain, the lungs, adipose tissue, and the cardiocirculatory system). In specific cases, perturbations in gut microbiota are evident years in advance of disease development, offering biomarkers for the early detection of disease risk and opportunities for preventive interventions. Paramount to all of these observations is the increasing evidence for microbial causality in disease development and identification of specific mechanisms of pathogenesis.

In this Special Issue of Nutrients, we would like to bring together papers on the role of gut microbiota in different health outcomes. Potential topics include:

  • gut microbiota, inflammation, and nutritional approaches in chronic diseases;
  • gut microbiota, lipid metabolism, and nutrition in neuro-degenerative diseases;
  • the gut–lung axis: the role of gut microbiota in respiratory diseases;
  • the psychobiome and precision nutrition;
  • gut microbiota and human life cycles: the origin of pediatric and adult diseases;
  • gut microbiota and systemic inflammation; and
  • gut microbiota metabolites as new potential biomarkers of dysbiosis.

We welcome the submission of original research articles and reviews (meta-analyses and systematic and narrative reviews).

Dr. Laura Soldati
Dr. Luigi Barrea
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Nutrients is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • gut microbiota
  • systemic inflammation
  • lipid metabolism
  • chronic and neuro-degenerative disease
  • gut dysbiosis biomarkers
  • psychobiome
  • precision nutrition

Published Papers (19 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review, Other

20 pages, 5065 KiB  
Article
Modulation of Dendritic Cells by Microbiota Extracellular Vesicles Influences the Cytokine Profile and Exosome Cargo
by Natalia Diaz-Garrido, Josefa Badia and Laura Baldomà
Nutrients 2022, 14(2), 344; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu14020344 - 14 Jan 2022
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3411
Abstract
Gut bacteria release extracellular vesicles (BEVs) as an intercellular communication mechanism that primes the host innate immune system. BEVs from E. coli activate dendritic cells (DCs) and subsequent T-cell responses in a strain-specific manner. The specific immunomodulatory effects were, in part, mediated by [...] Read more.
Gut bacteria release extracellular vesicles (BEVs) as an intercellular communication mechanism that primes the host innate immune system. BEVs from E. coli activate dendritic cells (DCs) and subsequent T-cell responses in a strain-specific manner. The specific immunomodulatory effects were, in part, mediated by differential regulation of miRNAs. This study aimed to deepen understanding of the mechanisms of BEVs to drive specific immune responses by analyzing their impact on DC-secreted cytokines and exosomes. DCs were challenged with BEVs from probiotic and commensal E. coli strains. The ability of DC-secreted factors to activate T-cell responses was assessed by cytokine quantification in indirect DCs/naïve CD4+ T-cells co-cultures on Transwell supports. DC-exosomes were characterized in terms of costimulatory molecules and miRNAs cargo. In the absence of direct cellular contacts, DC-secreted factors triggered secretion of effector cytokines by T-cells with the same trend as direct DC/T-cell co-cultures. The main differences between the strains influenced the production of Th1- and Treg-specific cytokines. Exosomes released by BEV-activated DCs were enriched in surface proteins involved in antigen presentation and T-cell activation, but differed in the content of immune-related miRNA, depending on the origin of the BEVs. These differences were consistent with the derived immune responses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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18 pages, 761 KiB  
Article
The Effects of One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass Surgery on the Gastrointestinal Tract
by Osnat Kaniel, Shiri Sherf-Dagan, Amir Szold, Peter Langer, Boris Khalfin, Yafit Kessler, Asnat Raziel, Nasser Sakran, Yair Motro, David Goitein and Jacob Moran-Gilad
Nutrients 2022, 14(2), 304; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu14020304 - 12 Jan 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2603
Abstract
One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is an emerging bariatric procedure, yet data on its effect on the gastrointestinal tract are lacking. This study sought to evaluate the incidence of small-intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) following OAGB; explore its effect on nutritional, gastrointestinal, and weight [...] Read more.
One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is an emerging bariatric procedure, yet data on its effect on the gastrointestinal tract are lacking. This study sought to evaluate the incidence of small-intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) following OAGB; explore its effect on nutritional, gastrointestinal, and weight outcomes; and assess post-OABG occurrence of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (PEI) and altered gut microbiota composition. A prospective pilot cohort study of patients who underwent primary-OAGB surgery is here reported. The pre-surgical and 6-months-post-surgery measurements included anthropometrics, glucose breath-tests, biochemical tests, gastrointestinal symptoms, quality-of-life, dietary intake, and fecal sample collection. Thirty-two patients (50% females, 44.5 ± 12.3 years) participated in this study, and 29 attended the 6-month follow-up visit. The mean excess weight loss at 6 months post-OAGB was 67.8 ± 21.2%. The glucose breath-test was negative in all pre-surgery and positive in 37.0% at 6 months (p = 0.004). Positive glucose breath-test was associated with lower reported dietary intake and folate levels and higher vitamin A deficiency rates (p ≤ 0.036). Fecal elastase-1 test (FE1) was negative for all pre-surgery and positive in 26.1% at 6 months (p = 0.500). Both alpha and beta diversity decreased at 6 months post-surgery compared to pre-surgery (p ≤ 0.026). Relatively high incidences of SIBO and PEI were observed at 6 months post-OAGB, which may explain some gastrointestinal symptoms and nutritional deficiencies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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24 pages, 6986 KiB  
Article
Curcumin Supplementation (Meriva®) Modulates Inflammation, Lipid Peroxidation and Gut Microbiota Composition in Chronic Kidney Disease
by Francesca Pivari, Alessandra Mingione, Giada Piazzini, Camilla Ceccarani, Emerenziana Ottaviano, Caterina Brasacchio, Michele Dei Cas, Margherita Vischi, Mario Gennaro Cozzolino, Paolo Fogagnolo, Antonella Riva, Giovanna Petrangolini, Luigi Barrea, Laura Di Renzo, Elisa Borghi, Paola Signorelli, Rita Paroni and Laura Soldati
Nutrients 2022, 14(1), 231; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu14010231 - 05 Jan 2022
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 9732
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) subjects suffer from high risk of cardiovascular mortality, and any intervention preventing the progression of CKD may have an enormous impact on public health. In the last decade, there has been growing awareness that the gut microbiota (GM) can [...] Read more.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) subjects suffer from high risk of cardiovascular mortality, and any intervention preventing the progression of CKD may have an enormous impact on public health. In the last decade, there has been growing awareness that the gut microbiota (GM) can play a pivotal role in controlling the pathogenesis of systemic inflammatory state and CKD progression. To ameliorate the quality of life in CKD subjects, the use of dietary supplements has increased over time. Among those, curcumin has demonstrated significant in vitro anti-inflammatory properties. In this pilot study, 24 CKD patients and 20 healthy volunteers were recruited. CKD patients followed nutritional counselling and were supplemented with curcumin (Meriva®) for six months. Different parameters were evaluated at baseline and after 3–6 months: uremic toxins, metagenomic of GM, and nutritional, inflammatory, and oxidative status. Curcumin significantly reduced plasma pro-inflammatory mediators (CCL-2, IFN-γ, and IL-4) and lipid peroxidation. Regarding GM, after 6 months of curcumin supplementation, Escherichia-Shigella was significantly lower, while Lachnoclostridium was significant higher. Notably, at family level, Lactobacillaceae spp. were found significantly higher in the last 3 months of supplementation. No adverse events were observed in the supplemented group, confirming the good safety profile of curcumin phytosome after long-term administration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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17 pages, 1070 KiB  
Article
Effects of Malted Rice Amazake on Constipation Symptoms and Gut Microbiota in Children and Adults with Severe Motor and Intellectual Disabilities: A Pilot Study
by Suzumi Kageyama, Rikako Inoue, Koji Hosomi, Jonguk Park, Hitomi Yumioka, Tomo Suka, Yoshihiro Kurohashi, Kazuaki Teramoto, A. Yasmin Syauki, Miki Doi, Haruka Sakaue, Kenji Mizuguchi, Jun Kunisawa and Yasuyuki Irie
Nutrients 2021, 13(12), 4466; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13124466 - 14 Dec 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3604
Abstract
Constipation is a frequent complication in patients with severe motor and intellectual disabilities (SMID). The aim of this study was to investigate changes in constipation symptoms and gut microbiota associated with the intake of malted rice amazake, a fermented food in Japan, in [...] Read more.
Constipation is a frequent complication in patients with severe motor and intellectual disabilities (SMID). The aim of this study was to investigate changes in constipation symptoms and gut microbiota associated with the intake of malted rice amazake, a fermented food in Japan, in patients with SMID. Ten patients consumed the test food for six weeks, and their physical condition, dietary and medication status, and constipation assessment scale (CAS) were investigated. Comprehensive fecal microbiome analysis using the 16S rRNA sequence method was performed. The results showed a significant decrease in CAS, and a significant increase in Lactobacillales and decrease in Escherichia-Shigella after consuming malted rice amazake. To investigate the difference in the effects of malted rice amazake consumption, based on the characteristics of the original gut microbiota, the patients were grouped according to the similarity of their gut microbiota before the intervention; Firmicutes-rich Group 1 (n = 5), Actinobacteria-rich Group 2 (n = 4), and Proteobacteria-rich Group 3 (n = 1). The CAS decreased in Groups 1 and 2. The relative abundance of Bifidobacterium showed an increasing tendency both overall and in Group 1, but it was originally higher in Group 2. Our results suggest that malted rice amazake consumption reduces constipation symptoms and simultaneously changes the gut microbiota, but the changes may vary depending on the original composition of the gut microbiota. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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9 pages, 534 KiB  
Article
Probiotics Improve Gastrointestinal Function and Life Quality in Pregnancy
by Albert T. Liu, Shuai Chen, Prasant Kumar Jena, Lili Sheng, Ying Hu and Yu-Jui Yvonne Wan
Nutrients 2021, 13(11), 3931; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13113931 - 03 Nov 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 23475
Abstract
We studied whether probiotics were beneficial for hormonal change-associated dysbiosis, which may influence the enteric nervous system and GI function during early pregnancy. The study was 16 days consisting of two cycles of six daily probiotics mainly Lactobacillus and 2 days without probiotics. [...] Read more.
We studied whether probiotics were beneficial for hormonal change-associated dysbiosis, which may influence the enteric nervous system and GI function during early pregnancy. The study was 16 days consisting of two cycles of six daily probiotics mainly Lactobacillus and 2 days without probiotics. Daily surveys were conducted to monitor GI function and life quality. A subset of the participants who contributed fecal specimens was used for microbiota metagenomic sequencing, metabolomics, and quantification of bacterial genes to understand potential underlying mechanisms. Statistical analyses were done by generalized linear mixed-effects models. Thirty-two obstetric patients and 535 daily observations were included. The data revealed that probiotic supplementation significantly reduced the severity of nausea, vomiting, constipation, and improved life quality. Moreover, a low copy number of fecal bsh (bile salt hydrolase), which generates free bile acids, was associated with high vomiting scores and probiotic intake increased fecal bsh. In exploratory analysis without adjusting for multiplicity, a low fecal α-tocopherol, as well as a high abundance of Akkemansia muciniphila, was associated with high vomiting scores and times, respectively. The potential implications of these biomarkers in pregnancy and GI function are discussed. Probiotics likely produce free bile acids to facilitate intestinal mobility and metabolism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
17 pages, 6567 KiB  
Article
Potential Role of Probiotics in Ameliorating Psoriasis by Modulating Gut Microbiota in Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-Like Mice
by Wenwei Lu, Yadan Deng, Zhifeng Fang, Qixiao Zhai, Shumao Cui, Jianxin Zhao, Wei Chen and Hao Zhang
Nutrients 2021, 13(6), 2010; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13062010 - 11 Jun 2021
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4199
Abstract
Psoriasis is an immune-mediated systemic disease that may be treated with probiotics. In this study, probiotic strains that could or could not decrease interleukin (IL)-17 levels were applied to imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like mice via oral administration. Bifidobacterium adolescentis CCFM667, B. breve CCFM1078, Lacticaseibacillus [...] Read more.
Psoriasis is an immune-mediated systemic disease that may be treated with probiotics. In this study, probiotic strains that could or could not decrease interleukin (IL)-17 levels were applied to imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like mice via oral administration. Bifidobacterium adolescentis CCFM667, B. breve CCFM1078, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei CCFM1074, and Limosilactobacillus reuteri CCFM1132 ameliorated psoriasis-like pathological characteristics and suppressed the release of IL-23/T helper cell 17 (Th17) axis-related inflammatory cytokines, whereas B. animalis CCFM1148, L. paracasei CCFM1147, and L. reuteri CCFM1040 neither alleviated the pathological characteristics nor reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines. All effective strains increased the contents of short-chain fatty acids, which were negatively correlated with the levels of inflammatory cytokines. By performing 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the diversity of gut microbiota in psoriasis-like mice was found to decrease, but all effective strains made some specific changes to the composition of gut microbiota compared to the ineffective strains. Furthermore, except for B. breve CCFM1078, all other effective strains decreased the abundance of the family Rikenellaceae, which was positively correlated with psoriasis-like pathological characteristics and was negatively correlated with propionate levels. These findings demonstrated effects of strain-specificity, and how probiotics ameliorated psoriasis and provide new possibilities for the treatment of psoriasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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15 pages, 1027 KiB  
Article
Association of Trimethylamine N-Oxide (TMAO) with the Clinical Severity of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Acne Inversa)
by Luigi Barrea, Giovanna Muscogiuri, Gabriella Pugliese, Giulia de Alteriis, Maria Maisto, Marianna Donnarumma, Gian Carlo Tenore, Annamaria Colao, Gabriella Fabbrocini and Silvia Savastano
Nutrients 2021, 13(6), 1997; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13061997 - 10 Jun 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2927
Abstract
In this case-control, cross-sectional, observational study, we evaluated circulating trimethylamine n-oxide (TMAO) levels, a gut-derived metabolite associated with inflammation and cardiometabolic risk, in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a highly disabling inflammatory skin disease associated with an elevated prevalence of comorbidities, especially cardiovascular [...] Read more.
In this case-control, cross-sectional, observational study, we evaluated circulating trimethylamine n-oxide (TMAO) levels, a gut-derived metabolite associated with inflammation and cardiometabolic risk, in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a highly disabling inflammatory skin disease associated with an elevated prevalence of comorbidities, especially cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. In this study, we enrolled 35 naive-treatment patients with HS and 35 controls, matched for sex, age, and body mass index (BMI). HS Sartorius score was 49.0 (33.0–75.0), while according to the Harley system 12 and 23 patients presented grade 1 and grade 2 severity, respectively. HS patients had a lower adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) (p = 0.002), lower phase angle (PhA) (p < 0.001), and higher circulating TMAO levels (p < 0.001) than the control group. HS patients with grade 2 rather than grade 1 of Harley grade severity showed a higher BMI (p = 0.007), waist circumference (p = 0.016), total energy intake (p = 0.005), and lower PhA (p < 0.001) and adherence to the MD (p = 0.003). Of interest, patients with Hurley grade 2 of severity exhibited higher circulating TMAO levels (p < 0.001) compared to grade 1. Circulating TMAO levels showed a positive correlation with HS Sartorius score even after adjustment for confounding covariates, including BMI, waist circumference, adherence to the MD, total energy intake, and PhA (r = 0.570, p = 0.001). Using a linear regression model, circulating TMAO levels and PhA were the main predictors of the clinical severity of HS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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17 pages, 1241 KiB  
Article
Association of the Chronotype Score with Circulating Trimethylamine N-Oxide (TMAO) Concentrations
by Luigi Barrea, Giovanna Muscogiuri, Gabriella Pugliese, Chiara Graziadio, Maria Maisto, Francesca Pivari, Andrea Falco, Gian Carlo Tenore, Annamaria Colao and Silvia Savastano
Nutrients 2021, 13(5), 1671; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13051671 - 14 May 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2581
Abstract
Individual differences in the chronotype, an attitude that best expresses the individual circadian preference in behavioral and biological rhythms, have been associated with cardiometabolic risk and gut dysbiosis. Up to now, there are no studies evaluating the association between chronotypes and circulating TMAO [...] Read more.
Individual differences in the chronotype, an attitude that best expresses the individual circadian preference in behavioral and biological rhythms, have been associated with cardiometabolic risk and gut dysbiosis. Up to now, there are no studies evaluating the association between chronotypes and circulating TMAO concentrations, a predictor of cardiometabolic risk and a useful marker of gut dysbiosis. In this study population (147 females and 100 males), subjects with the morning chronotype had the lowest BMI and waist circumference (p < 0.001), and a better metabolic profile compared to the other chronotypes. In addition, the morning chronotype had the highest adherence to the Mediterranean diet (p < 0.001) and the lowest circulating TMAO concentrations (p < 0.001). After adjusting for BMI and adherence to the Mediterranean diet, the correlation between circulating TMAO concentrations and chronotype score was still kept (r = −0.627, p < 0.001). Using a linear regression analysis, higher chronotype scores were mostly associated with lower circulating TMAO concentrations (β = −0.479, t = −12.08, and p < 0.001). Using a restricted cubic spline analysis, we found that a chronotype score ≥59 (p < 0.001, R2 = −0.824) demonstrated a more significant inverse linear relationship with circulating TMAO concentrations compared with knots <59 (neither chronotype) and <41 (evening chronotype). The current study reported the first evidence that higher circulating TMAO concentrations were associated with the evening chronotype that, in turn, is usually linked to an unhealthy lifestyle mostly characterized by low adherence to the MD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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20 pages, 4647 KiB  
Article
Resistant Starch Type 2 from Wheat Reduces Postprandial Glycemic Response with Concurrent Alterations in Gut Microbiota Composition
by Riley L. Hughes, William H. Horn, Peter Finnegan, John W. Newman, Maria L. Marco, Nancy L. Keim and Mary E. Kable
Nutrients 2021, 13(2), 645; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13020645 - 17 Feb 2021
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 5570
Abstract
The majority of research on the physiological effects of dietary resistant starch type 2 (RS2) has focused on sources derived from high-amylose maize. In this study, we conduct a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial investigating the effects of RS2 from wheat on glycemic [...] Read more.
The majority of research on the physiological effects of dietary resistant starch type 2 (RS2) has focused on sources derived from high-amylose maize. In this study, we conduct a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial investigating the effects of RS2 from wheat on glycemic response, an important indicator of metabolic health, and the gut microbiota. Overall, consumption of RS2-enriched wheat rolls for one week resulted in reduced postprandial glucose and insulin responses relative to conventional wheat when participants were provided with a standard breakfast meal containing the respective treatment rolls (RS2-enriched or conventional wheat). This was accompanied by an increase in the proportions of bacterial taxa Ruminococcus and Gemmiger in the fecal contents, reflecting the composition in the distal intestine. Additionally, fasting breath hydrogen and methane were increased during RS2-enriched wheat consumption. However, although changes in fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations were not significant between control and RS-enriched wheat roll consumption, butyrate and total SCFAs were positively correlated with relative abundance of Faecalibacterium, Ruminoccocus, Roseburia, and Barnesiellaceae. These effects show that RS2-enriched wheat consumption results in a reduction in postprandial glycemia, altered gut microbial composition, and increased fermentation activity relative to wild-type wheat. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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Review

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30 pages, 1488 KiB  
Review
Gut Microbiota and Complications of Type-2 Diabetes
by Camelia Oana Iatcu, Aimee Steen and Mihai Covasa
Nutrients 2022, 14(1), 166; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu14010166 - 30 Dec 2021
Cited by 122 | Viewed by 18502
Abstract
The gut microbiota has been linked to the emergence of obesity, metabolic syndrome and the onset of type 2 diabetes through decreased glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious health consequences such as impaired kidney function, blindness, stroke, myocardial [...] Read more.
The gut microbiota has been linked to the emergence of obesity, metabolic syndrome and the onset of type 2 diabetes through decreased glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious health consequences such as impaired kidney function, blindness, stroke, myocardial infarction and lower limb amputation. Despite a variety of treatments currently available, cases of diabetes and resulting complications are on the rise. One promising new approach to diabetes focuses on modulating the gut microbiota with probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics and fecal microbial transplantation. Differences in gut microbiota composition have been observed in preclinical animal models as well as patients with type 2 diabetes and complications such as diabetic nephropathy, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic neuropathy, cerebrovascular disease, coronary heart disease and peripheral artery disease compared to healthy controls. Severity of gut microbiota dysbiosis was associated with disease severity and restoration with probiotic administration in animal models and human patients has been associated with improvement of symptoms and disease progression. Characterizing the gut microbiota dysbiosis in different diseases and determining a causal relationship between the gut microbiota and disease can be beneficial in formulating therapeutic interventions for type 2 diabetes and associated complications. In this review, we present the most important findings regarding the role of the gut microbiota in type 2 diabetes and chronic complications as well as their underlying mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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18 pages, 698 KiB  
Review
Patient Nutrition and Probiotic Therapy in COVID-19: What Do We Know in 2021?
by Viktoria Hawryłkowicz, Danuta Lietz-Kijak, Karolina Kaźmierczak-Siedlecka, Joanna Sołek-Pastuszka, Laura Stachowska, Marcin Folwarski, Miłosz Parczewski and Ewa Stachowska
Nutrients 2021, 13(10), 3385; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13103385 - 26 Sep 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5665
Abstract
Background: The main nutritional consequences of COVID-19 include reduced food intake, hypercatabolism, and rapid muscle wasting. Some studies showed that malnutrition is a significant problem among patients hospitalized due to COVID-19 infection, and the outcome of patients with SARS-CoV-2 is strongly associated with [...] Read more.
Background: The main nutritional consequences of COVID-19 include reduced food intake, hypercatabolism, and rapid muscle wasting. Some studies showed that malnutrition is a significant problem among patients hospitalized due to COVID-19 infection, and the outcome of patients with SARS-CoV-2 is strongly associated with their nutritional status. The purpose of this study was to collect useful information about the possible elements of nutritional and probiotic therapy in patients infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Methods: A narrative review of the literature, including studies published up to 13 September 2021. Results: Probiotics may support patients by inhibiting the ACE2 receptor, i.e., the passage of the virus into the cell, and may also be effective in suppressing the immune response caused by the proinflammatory cytokine cascade. In patients’ diet, it is crucial to ensure an adequate intake of micronutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids (at 2–4 g/d), selenium (300–450 μg/d) and zinc (30–50 mg/d), and vitamins A (900–700 µg/d), E (135 mg/d), D (20,000–50,000 IU), C (1–2 g/d), B6, and B12. Moreover, the daily calorie intake should amount to ≥1500–2000 with 75–100 g of protein. Conclusion: In conclusion, the treatment of gut dysbiosis involving an adequate intake of prebiotic dietary fiber and probiotics could turn out to be an immensely helpful instrument for immunomodulation, both in COVID-19 patients and prophylactically in individuals with no history of infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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20 pages, 1485 KiB  
Review
The Metabolism of Glucosinolates by Gut Microbiota
by Kalina Sikorska-Zimny and Luciano Beneduce
Nutrients 2021, 13(8), 2750; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13082750 - 10 Aug 2021
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 5152
Abstract
Glucosinolates (GLS) and their derivatives are secondary plant metabolites abundant in Brassicaceae. Due to the enzymatic reaction between GLS and myrosinase enzyme, characteristic compounds with a pungent taste are formed, used by plants to defend themselves against insect herbivores. These GLS derivatives [...] Read more.
Glucosinolates (GLS) and their derivatives are secondary plant metabolites abundant in Brassicaceae. Due to the enzymatic reaction between GLS and myrosinase enzyme, characteristic compounds with a pungent taste are formed, used by plants to defend themselves against insect herbivores. These GLS derivatives have an important impact on human health, including anti-inflammation and anti-cancer effects. However, GLS derivatives’ formation needs previous enzymatic reactions catalyzed by myrosinase enzyme. Many of the brassica-based foods are processed at a high temperature that inactivates enzymes, hindering its bioavailability. In the last decade, several studies showed that the human gut microbiome can provide myrosinase activity that potentially can raise the beneficial effects of consumption of vegetables rich in GLS. The variability of the human gut microbiome (HGM) in human populations and the diverse intake of GLS through the diet may lead to greater variability of the real dose of pro-healthy compounds absorbed by the human body. The exploitation of the genetic and biochemical potential of HGM and correct ecological studies of both isolated strains and mixed population are of great interest. This review focuses on the most recent advances in this field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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21 pages, 811 KiB  
Review
Malnutrition and Gut Microbiota in Children
by Ishawu Iddrisu, Andrea Monteagudo-Mera, Carlos Poveda, Simone Pyle, Muhammad Shahzad, Simon Andrews and Gemma Emily Walton
Nutrients 2021, 13(8), 2727; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13082727 - 08 Aug 2021
Cited by 56 | Viewed by 11509
Abstract
Malnutrition continues to threaten the lives of millions across the world, with children being hardest hit. Although inadequate access to food and infectious disease are the primary causes of childhood malnutrition, the gut microbiota may also contribute. This review considers the evidence on [...] Read more.
Malnutrition continues to threaten the lives of millions across the world, with children being hardest hit. Although inadequate access to food and infectious disease are the primary causes of childhood malnutrition, the gut microbiota may also contribute. This review considers the evidence on the role of diet in modifying the gut microbiota, and how the microbiota impacts childhood malnutrition. It is widely understood that the gut microbiota of children is influenced by diet, which, in turn, can impact child nutritional status. Additionally, diarrhoea, a major contributor to malnutrition, is induced by pathogenic elements of the gut microbiota. Diarrhoea leads to malabsorption of essential nutrients and reduced energy availability resulting in weight loss, which can lead to malnutrition. Alterations in gut microbiota of severe acute malnourished (SAM) children include increased Proteobacteria and decreased Bacteroides levels. Additionally, the gut microbiota of SAM children exhibits lower relative diversity compared with healthy children. Thus, the data indicate a link between gut microbiota and malnutrition in children, suggesting that treatment of childhood malnutrition should include measures that support a healthy gut microbiota. This could be of particular relevance in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia where prevalence of malnutrition remains a major threat to the lives of millions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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25 pages, 463 KiB  
Review
Diarrhea Predominant-Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS-D): Effects of Different Nutritional Patterns on Intestinal Dysbiosis and Symptoms
by Annamaria Altomare, Claudia Di Rosa, Elena Imperia, Sara Emerenziani, Michele Cicala and Michele Pier Luca Guarino
Nutrients 2021, 13(5), 1506; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13051506 - 29 Apr 2021
Cited by 46 | Viewed by 11969
Abstract
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain associated with defecation or a change in bowel habits. Gut microbiota, which acts as a real organ with well-defined functions, is in a mutualistic relationship with the host, harvesting [...] Read more.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain associated with defecation or a change in bowel habits. Gut microbiota, which acts as a real organ with well-defined functions, is in a mutualistic relationship with the host, harvesting additional energy and nutrients from the diet and protecting the host from pathogens; specific alterations in its composition seem to play a crucial role in IBS pathophysiology. It is well known that diet can significantly modulate the intestinal microbiota profile but it is less known how different nutritional approach effective in IBS patients, such as the low-FODMAP diet, could be responsible of intestinal microbiota changes, thus influencing the presence of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. The aim of this review was to explore the effects of different nutritional protocols (e.g., traditional nutritional advice, low-FODMAP diet, gluten-free diet, etc.) on IBS-D symptoms and on intestinal microbiota variations in both IBS-D patients and healthy subjects. To date, an ideal nutritional protocol does not exist for IBS-D patients but it seems crucial to consider the effect of the different nutritional approaches on the intestinal microbiota composition to better define an efficient strategy to manage this functional disorder. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
12 pages, 553 KiB  
Review
Association of Urinary and Plasma Levels of Trimethylamine N-Oxide (TMAO) with Foods
by Mauro Lombardo, Giovanni Aulisa, Daniele Marcon, Gianluca Rizzo, Maria Grazia Tarsisano, Laura Di Renzo, Massimo Federici, Massimiliano Caprio and Antonino De Lorenzo
Nutrients 2021, 13(5), 1426; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13051426 - 23 Apr 2021
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6809
Abstract
Introduction: Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) may play a key mediator role in the relationship between the diet, gut microbiota and cardiovascular diseases, particularly in people with kidney failure. The aim of this review is to evaluate which foods have a greater influence on blood [...] Read more.
Introduction: Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) may play a key mediator role in the relationship between the diet, gut microbiota and cardiovascular diseases, particularly in people with kidney failure. The aim of this review is to evaluate which foods have a greater influence on blood or urinary trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) levels. Methods: 391 language articles were screened, and 27 were analysed and summarized for this review, using the keywords “TMAO” AND “egg” OR “meat” OR “fish” OR “dairy” OR “vegetables” OR “fruit” OR “food” in December 2020. Results: A strong correlation between TMAO and fish consumption, mainly saltwater fish and shellfish, but not freshwater fish, has been demonstrated. Associations of the consumption of eggs, dairy and meat with TMAO are less clear and may depend on other factors such as microbiota or cooking methods. Plant-based foods do not seem to influence TMAO but have been less investigated. Discussion: Consumption of saltwater fish, dark meat fish and shellfish seems to be associated with an increase in urine or plasma TMAO values. Further studies are needed to understand the relationship between increased risk of cardiovascular disease and plasma levels of TMAO due to fish consumption. Interventions coupled with long-term dietary patterns targeting the gut microbiota seem promising. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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22 pages, 1574 KiB  
Review
Phosphate, Microbiota and CKD
by Chiara Favero, Sol Carriazo, Leticia Cuarental, Raul Fernandez-Prado, Elena Gomá-Garcés, Maria Vanessa Perez-Gomez, Alberto Ortiz, Beatriz Fernandez-Fernandez and Maria Dolores Sanchez-Niño
Nutrients 2021, 13(4), 1273; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13041273 - 13 Apr 2021
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5693
Abstract
Phosphate is a key uremic toxin associated with adverse outcomes. As chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses, the kidney capacity to excrete excess dietary phosphate decreases, triggering compensatory endocrine responses that drive CKD-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD). Eventually, hyperphosphatemia develops, and low phosphate diet [...] Read more.
Phosphate is a key uremic toxin associated with adverse outcomes. As chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses, the kidney capacity to excrete excess dietary phosphate decreases, triggering compensatory endocrine responses that drive CKD-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD). Eventually, hyperphosphatemia develops, and low phosphate diet and phosphate binders are prescribed. Recent data have identified a potential role of the gut microbiota in mineral bone disorders. Thus, parathyroid hormone (PTH) only caused bone loss in mice whose microbiota was enriched in the Th17 cell-inducing taxa segmented filamentous bacteria. Furthermore, the microbiota was required for PTH to stimulate bone formation and increase bone mass, and this was dependent on bacterial production of the short-chain fatty acid butyrate. We review current knowledge on the relationship between phosphate, microbiota and CKD-MBD. Topics include microbial bioactive compounds of special interest in CKD, the impact of dietary phosphate and phosphate binders on the gut microbiota, the modulation of CKD-MBD by the microbiota and the potential therapeutic use of microbiota to treat CKD-MBD through the clinical translation of concepts from other fields of science such as the optimization of phosphorus utilization and the use of phosphate-accumulating organisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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23 pages, 1702 KiB  
Review
Targeting Dietary and Microbial Tryptophan-Indole Metabolism as Therapeutic Approaches to Colon Cancer
by Madhur Wyatt and K. Leigh Greathouse
Nutrients 2021, 13(4), 1189; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu13041189 - 03 Apr 2021
Cited by 46 | Viewed by 7864
Abstract
Tryptophan metabolism, via the kynurenine (Kyn) pathway, and microbial transformation of tryptophan to indolic compounds are fundamental for host health; both of which are altered in colon carcinogenesis. Alterations in tryptophan metabolism begin early in colon carcinogenesis as an adaptive mechanism for the [...] Read more.
Tryptophan metabolism, via the kynurenine (Kyn) pathway, and microbial transformation of tryptophan to indolic compounds are fundamental for host health; both of which are altered in colon carcinogenesis. Alterations in tryptophan metabolism begin early in colon carcinogenesis as an adaptive mechanism for the tumor to escape immune surveillance and metastasize. The microbial community is a key part of the tumor microenvironment and influences cancer initiation, promotion and treatment response. A growing awareness of the impact of the microbiome on tryptophan (Trp) metabolism in the context of carcinogenesis has prompted this review. We first compare the different metabolic pathways of Trp under normal cellular physiology to colon carcinogenesis, in both the host cells and the microbiome. Second, we review how the microbiome, specifically indoles, influence host tryptophan pathways under normal and oncogenic metabolism. We conclude by proposing several dietary, microbial and drug therapeutic modalities that can be utilized in combination to abrogate tumorigenesis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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21 pages, 4234 KiB  
Systematic Review
Prolonged Isolated Soluble Dietary Fibre Supplementation in Overweight and Obese Patients: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
by Valentina V. Huwiler, Katja A. Schönenberger, Alexander Segesser von Brunegg, Emilie Reber, Stefan Mühlebach, Zeno Stanga and Maria L. Balmer
Nutrients 2022, 14(13), 2627; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu14132627 - 24 Jun 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5324
Abstract
The prevalence of overweight and obesity is rising rapidly, currently affecting 1.9 billion adults worldwide. Prebiotic dietary fibre supplementation is a promising approach to improve weight loss and reduce metabolic complications in overweight and obese subjects due to modifications of the microbiota composition [...] Read more.
The prevalence of overweight and obesity is rising rapidly, currently affecting 1.9 billion adults worldwide. Prebiotic dietary fibre supplementation is a promising approach to improve weight loss and reduce metabolic complications in overweight and obese subjects due to modifications of the microbiota composition and function. Previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses addressing similar questions revealed discordant evidence and/or are outdated. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Google Scholar, and forward and backward citations for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with isolated soluble dietary fibre supplementation for at least 12 weeks in overweight and obese patients measuring body weight, published through April 2022. We expressed the results as mean differences (MDs) using the random-effects model of the metafor package in R and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane RoB2 tool. We conducted the study according to the PRISMA guidelines and registered the protocol on PROSPERO (CRD42022295246). The participants with dietary fibre supplementation showed a significantly higher reduction in body weight (MD −1.25 kg, 95% CI −2.24, −0.25; 27 RCTs; 1428 participants) accompanied by a significant decrease in BMI, waist circumference, fasting blood insulin, and HOMA-IR compared to the control group. Certainty of evidence was high, paving the way for the implementation of isolated soluble dietary fibre supplementation into clinical practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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28 pages, 4997 KiB  
Systematic Review
Effect of Probiotics on Psychiatric Symptoms and Central Nervous System Functions in Human Health and Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Charlotte Le Morvan de Sequeira, Charlotte Hengstberger, Paul Enck and Isabelle Mack
Nutrients 2022, 14(3), 621; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nu14030621 - 30 Jan 2022
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 8237
Abstract
Background: The gut microbiota impacts on central nervous system (CNS) function via the microbiota–gut–brain axis. Thus, therapeutics targeting the gut microbiota such as probiotics have the potential for improving mental health. This meta-analysis synthesizes the evidence regarding the impacts of probiotics on psychological [...] Read more.
Background: The gut microbiota impacts on central nervous system (CNS) function via the microbiota–gut–brain axis. Thus, therapeutics targeting the gut microbiota such as probiotics have the potential for improving mental health. This meta-analysis synthesizes the evidence regarding the impacts of probiotics on psychological well-being, psychiatric symptoms and CNS functioning. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were applied for executing this review using the databases PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library. The data were summarized at qualitative and quantitative level. Results: Fifty-four randomized placebo-controlled studies were included, of which 30 were eligible for meta-analysis. If investigated, the probiotics mostly exerted effects on CNS function. Most probiotics did not affect mood, stress, anxiety, depression and psychiatric distress when compared to placebo at the qualitative level. At quantitative level, depression and psychiatric distress improved slightly in the probiotic condition (depression: mean difference −0.37 (95% CI: −0.55, −0.20); p ≤ 0.0001; psychiatric distress: mean difference −0.33 (95% CI: −0.53, −0.13); p = 0.001). Conclusions: To date it is unclear to which extent and in which specific areas next generation probiotics selected and developed for their ability to improve psychiatric condition and potentially other CNS functions are promising. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota in Human Health and Diseases)
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