Search Results (211)

This study on the isolation, identification, and characterization of the probiotic properties of lactic acid bacterial strains from the rose blossom of Rosa damascena Mill. (R. damascena) is crucial for discovering novel, plant-derived probiotics with potential health benefits and applications in food, medicine, and cosmetics. Nine lactic acid bacterial (LAB) strains were isolated from rose blossom of R. damascena, and they were identified to the species level by applying physiological and biochemical (API 50 CHL), and molecular genetic (16S rRNA gene sequencing) methods. The isolates were identified as belonging to the Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum species. Some probiotic properties of the newly isolated and identified LAB strains were examined: their antibacterial activity against pathogens by the agar well diffusion method, and their antibiotic resistance profile by the agar paper disc diffusion method. The LAB strains studied demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against the Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella Abony, Proteus vulgaris, Listeria monocytogenes, and Enterococcus faecalis pathogens and were resistant to most of the antibiotics used in clinical practice, which in turn suggested the possibility of their joint inclusion in therapy, in the composition of probiotic preparations. A batch fermentation process was conducted with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 5/20, and the kinetic parameters of the batch fermentation process were determined in order to obtain a concentrate with a high viable cell count (10¹³CFU/cm³). The resultant concentrate was freeze-dried, and freeze-dried preparations with a high viable cell count (over 10¹² CFU/g) were obtained. Research on LAB strains isolated from R. damascena could reveal valuable LAB strains with significant probiotic properties. These strains will be suitable for various applications in the composition of starter cultures for functional beverages and foods, as well as probiotic preparations, showcasing the untapped potential of plant-associated microbiota. Full article

This review examines the impact of heat stress (HS) on carcass traits, meat quality, and nutritional composition in monogastric animals, specifically poultry and swine, and evaluates targeted nutritional strategies for mitigation. With rising global temperatures and intensified heat waves, HS has emerged as a key threat to animal welfare, production efficiency, and meat quality. Physiological disturbances induced by HS, including oxidative stress, protein denaturation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and hormonal imbalances, contribute to reduced carcass yield, muscle degradation, and inferior sensory attributes such as tenderness, juiciness, and flavour. HS also diminishes the nutritional value of meat by depleting essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidant micronutrients. This review highlights nutritional interventions, including antioxidant supplementation (e.g., vitamin E, selenium, polyphenols), osmolytes (e.g., betaine, taurine), probiotics, prebiotics, and optimised energy-to-protein ratios, as promising tools to enhance thermotolerance and meat quality. Emerging feed additives such as phytochemicals also show potential for protecting muscle integrity and improving oxidative stability. Given species-specific responses and production system variability, integrating these dietary approaches with stage-specific management is essential for resilience under climate stress. Future research should focus on the precision nutrition, biomarker identification, and validation of synergistic nutritional strategies that safeguard performance and meat quality in monogastric production systems. Full article

Background/Objectives: Childhood obesity is a growing global concern linked to metabolic disorders such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) may exacerbate these conditions by promoting systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. This review evaluates the prevalence of SIBO in obese children, its association with inflammatory and metabolic markers, and the efficacy of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2010–present) was conducted using Boolean operators: (‘small intestinal bacterial overgrowth’ OR ‘SIBO’) AND ‘prevalence’ AND (‘low-grade inflammatory markers’ OR ‘metabolic status’) AND ‘gut microbiome’ AND ‘dysbiosis’ AND ‘obese children’. Results: The data show that SIBO is frequently observed in obese pediatric populations and is associated with gut dysbiosis, impaired nutrient absorption, and reduced production of short-chain fatty acids. These changes contribute to increased intestinal permeability, endotoxemia, and chronic low-grade inflammation. Several microbial taxa have been proposed as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Diagnostic inconsistencies persist, but treatments such as probiotics, prebiotics, dietary interventions, and selective antibiotics show potential, pending further validation. Conclusions: Early identification and treatment of SIBO with tailored strategies may help reduce metabolic complications and improve outcomes in children with obesity. Full article

Colitis in equines has high morbidity and mortality rates, which severely affects the development of the equine-breeding industry. With the issuance of antibiotic bans, there is an urgent need for healthier and more effective alternatives. In recent years, probiotics have been widely used as microbial feed additives in animal husbandry, playing a crucial role in preventing and treating diarrhea and regulating host immune function. In this study, we isolated and screened a strain with rapid and stable acid production using bromocresol purple, litmus milk coloration tests, and acid production performance assessments. Based on morphological characteristics, physiological and biochemical properties, and 16S rDNA identification, the strain was identified as Pediococcus pentosaceus and named M6. The Pediococcus pentosaceus M6 exhibited stable growth and tolerance to high temperatures, acid and bile salt concentrations, and simulated gastrointestinal fluid environments. The M6 strain demonstrated good antibacterial effects against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella. The M6 strain did not produce hemolysis zones on Columbia blood agar plates, indicating its high safety, and was found to be insensitive to 12 antibiotics, including cephalexin and neomycin. Additionally, intervention in mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis alleviated weight loss and shortened colon length. To a certain extent, it regulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines and the gut microbiota within the body and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and intestinal barrier damage. In summary, the isolated Pediococcus pentosaceus M6 strain exhibited excellent probiotic properties and could alleviate DSS-induced colitis in mice, suggesting its potential application value as a probiotic in animal husbandry. Full article

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease closely associated with dysbiosis of the gut microbiome, encompassing not only bacterial communities but also fungal populations. Despite the growing recognition of the gut microbiome’s role in UC pathogenesis, the contribution of intestinal fungi has only recently garnered significant attention. In this review, we comprehensively examine the characteristics of intestinal fungi in both healthy individuals and UC patients, elucidating their role in disease pathogenesis and their interactions with bacterial communities. Additionally, we explore the impact of intestinal fungi on disease severity and therapeutic responses in UC. Furthermore, we evaluate the therapeutic potential of antifungal agents, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in UC management, emphasizing the critical role of fungi in these treatment modalities. Future research should prioritize elucidating the multifunctional roles of fungi in UC pathogenesis and their implications for treatment strategies. Moreover, the identification of fungal biomarkers associated with FMT efficacy could pave the way for precision medicine approaches in FMT, offering novel insights into personalized therapeutic interventions for UC. Full article

Background/Objectives: Sarcopenia is characterized by loss of muscle mass and strength and is associated with aging. Recently, its links with the gut–muscle axis have been reported, suggesting that probiotics could influence muscle health. Methods: In the present study, we investigated the protective roles of two lactic acid bacteria strains, Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus ST-G30 (ST-G30) and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LPc-G110 (LPc-G110), on skeletal muscle atrophy induced by dexamethasone (DEX) in C2C12 myotubes. Results: Our results demonstrated that ST-G30 significantly alleviated DEX-induced myotube atrophy by increasing the myotubes’ diameter (25.95 ± 1.28 vs. 15.30 ± 0.30 μm, p < 0.01), improving the fusion index (48.35 ± 1.75 vs. 22.16 ± 2.36%, p < 0.0001), and increasing the protein content (1.78 ± 0.02 vs. 1.56 ± 0.01 mg/mL, p < 0.05) and myotube length (0.61 ± 0.05 vs. 0.33 ± 0.01, p < 0.05), whereas LPc-G110 showed no significant effect on these phenotypes (p > 0.05). Transcriptomic analysis reveals that ST-G30 modulates critical signaling pathways and biological processes related to skeletal muscle health. In the current study, KEGG enrichment analysis and WGCNA enabled identification of the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway as a key regulator of these processes, highlighting its essential role in mitigating DEX-induced muscle atrophy. Furthermore, the overlapping DEGs associated with the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway showed strong correlations with muscle atrophy-related indices. Conclusions: These findings underscore the potential of ST-G30 as a promising anti-muscle atrophy supplement and provide valuable insights for developing strategies to prevent and treat glucocorticoid-induced skeletal muscle atrophy. Full article

Blastocystis spp. has been linked to gastrointestinal symptoms, yet its pathogenicity remains uncertain. In addition, the roles of virulence factors, pathogenic potential, and host-specific traits associated with symptomatic infections are still not well understood. The growing number of immunocompromised patients has contributed to an increasing prevalence of Blastocystis spp. infections, which may be implicated in the development of various inflammatory diseases, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colorectal cancer, and autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s disease and ulcerative colitis. However, the presence of nonspecific symptoms often complicates diagnosis. This study aimed to present current data on the impact of Blastocystis spp. on the development and progression of gastrointestinal and autoimmune diseases, as well as to explore potential treatment options for Blastocystis spp. infections. A literature review was conducted to analyze the role of Blastocystis spp. in the pathogenesis of specific diseases and to investigate potential mechanisms of its interaction with the host organism. Advances in diagnostic techniques, particularly PCR, allow not only for the detection of Blastocystis spp. but also for the identification of specific subtypes, improving treatment precision. Beyond conventional therapies like metronidazole, there is a growing emphasis on alternative treatments, including the use of medicinal plants and probiotics. Full article

Muscadine grapes are renowned for their unique traits, natural disease resistance, and rich bioactive compounds. Despite extensive research on their phytochemical properties, microbial communities, particularly endophytic bacteria, remain largely unexplored. These bacteria play crucial roles in plant health, stress tolerance, and ecological interactions. This study represents the first comprehensive effort to isolate, identify, and functionally characterize the bacterial endophytes inhabiting muscadine grape berries using a culture-dependent approach. We isolated diverse bacterial species spanning six genera—Bacillus, Staphylococcus, Paenibacillus, Calidifontibacillus, Curtobacterium, and Tatumella. Microscopic and physiological analysis revealed variations in bacterial morphology, with isolates demonstrating adaptability to varied temperatures. Cluster-based analysis indicated functional specialization among the isolates, with species from Pseudomonadota and Actinomycetota exhibiting superior plant growth-promoting abilities, whereas Bacillota species displayed potential biocontrol and probiotic properties. Among them, Tatumella ptyseos demonstrated exceptional plant growth-promoting traits, including indole-3-acetic acid production, nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, and carbohydrate fermentation. Additionally, Bacillus spp. showed presumptive biocontrol potential, while Paenibacillus cineris emerged as a potential probiotic candidate. The identification of Calidifontibacillus erzurumensis as a novel endophytic species further expands the known biodiversity of grape-associated microbes. These findings provide insights into the metabolic diversity and functional roles of muscadine grape-associated endophytes, highlighting their potential for agricultural and biotechnological applications. Full article

Clostridium butyricum, recognized as a probiotic, is widely distributed in the intestines of various animals. In this study, the C. butyricum strain YF1 was isolated from the intestine of the ricefield eel (Monopterus albus) using an anaerobic culture method and was identified through morphological, physiological, biochemical, and 16S rRNA sequence analyses. Notably, C. butyricum YF1 exhibited a rapid growth rate and was found to produce ten types of short-chain fatty acids, particularly high-yield acetic acid and butyric acid. Additionally, YF1 demonstrated a high tolerance to elevated temperatures (70 °C), bile salts (0.1% to 0.5%), artificial intestinal fluid, and artificial gastric fluid, while being sensitive to most antibiotics. Further whole-genome sequencing revealed that C. butyricum YF1 has a total genome size of 4,314,266 bp and contains 3853 coding genes. Specifically, 82 tRNAs, 21 rRNAs, 288 repeat sequences, 13 prophages, and two gene islands were detected. Moreover, gene function analysis indicated that the highest number of genes were annotated to metabolic processes, and the butyric acid metabolism pathway was found to be complete. Meanwhile, 598 virulence genes and 186 resistance genes were predicted. In conclusion, the findings from this study contribute to probiotic development and provide innovative approaches for the sustainable and healthy cultivation of ricefield eels. Full article

In order to obtain high-performing yeast strains from ruminants, it is necessary to select them from species such as beef cattle, dairy cows, goats, and buffalo. A total of 91 isolated yeasts were collected using the standard methods of microbial culture on agar medium followed by streaking on a plate at least three times until pure yeast colonies were formed. The API 20C AUX Kit and sequencing of the D1/D2 domain of the 26S rRNA gene were used to identify the genera Candida spp., namely, C. glabrata (99% identification), C. tropicallis (99%), C. rugosa (98%), and Issatchenkia orientalis (99%). A total of 12 yeast strains (Dc4, 14, 18; Be1, 2, 7; Bu3, 4, 7; and Go10, 16, 19) were chosen for further analyses. The performance criteria included the ability to tolerate pH values between 3.5 and 7.5, total volatile fatty acids (TVFAs, 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, and 4% of broth medium), anaerobic growth rate, and in vitro gas production efficiency. First, when all strains were grown at pH values between 3.5 and 7.5, Bu3 and Dc18 performed better than the other strains. Second, at a ruminal pH of 6.5 and a TVFA concentration of between 2 and 4% of the broth medium, strain Bu3 was more resistant than the other strains. Under anaerobic conditions, all strains experienced a decline in viable cell counts when compared with those under aerobic conditions. However, compared to strains Dc14, Be1, Be2, Be7, and Bu3, strain Dc18 exhibited more viable cells under anaerobic conditions in broth medium. The response of strain Dc18 did not differ from those of strains Dc4, Bu4, Bu7, or G16. Strains Be7, Bu3, and Dc18 were used for an in vitro fermentation experiment involving incubation for 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h. Three ruminal cannulated dairy cows were used as donors of ruminal fluid. The treatments were run in triplicate. The addition of yeast culture had no effect on gas kinetics, gas accumulation, or the ratio of acetic acid and propionic acid, but led to significantly greater butyric acid concentrations at 24 h of incubation. In conclusion, strain Dc18 isolated from dairy cows is suitable for future studies of probiotic yeast development. Full article

Urogenital infections impact millions of individuals globally each year, with vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) being one of the most prevalent conditions affecting women. Candida albicans is the primary pathogen responsible for VVC. The utilization of probiotics as an alternative therapeutic approach to antibiotics in managing such infections has gained increasing attention. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of THY-F51, a lactic acid bacterium isolated from kiwi, as a probiotic to support vaginal health through its antifungal, anti-biofilm, and anti-inflammatory properties against C. albicans. The identification of THY-F51 was confirmed through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. A series of evaluations were performed to determine its antifungal efficacy against C. albicans, biofilm-inhibitory activity, antioxidant properties, and effects on inflammatory cytokines. Cytotoxicity assays and assessments of bacterial survival under vaginal pH conditions (pH 3.8–4.5) were also conducted. The results demonstrated that THY-F51, identified as Leuconostoc citreum, exhibited potent antifungal activity against C. albicans, with an MIC of 1.25 mg/mL and an MFC of 2.5 mg/mL. Furthermore, THY-F51 displayed a strong inhibition of C. albicans biofilm formation, as well as notable antioxidant activity in the supernatant. Additionally, THY-F51 demonstrated high survival rates under vaginal pH conditions, an absence of cytotoxic effects, and a significant reduction in C. albicans adhesion to HeLa cells. Moreover, THY-F51 effectively suppressed C. albicans-induced inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8. These findings suggest that THY-F51, isolated from kiwi, holds substantial promise as a safe and effective probiotic for reducing vaginal inflammation and promoting vaginal health. Full article

Finding and characterizing new bacterial strains, including probiotic strains, is a crucial task in today’s world to expand the genetic data pool and identify new genes. In this study, we investigated the gut microbiota of one industrial species, Cyprinus carpio, and identified representatives of various microbial genera, including Citrobacter, Serratia, Bacillus, Enterococcus, and Kocuria. Notably, we discovered two strains of Hafnia with potentially probiotic properties. We conducted next-generation sequencing (NGS) of these strains, described their antibiotic resistance and antibacterial activity, and compared them with other representatives of the Hafnia genus. These strains, characterized by rapid growth, the presence of the ClpB heat shock protein gene, and genes associated with microplastic degradation, provide a promising basis for further research, including studies on their potential application in plastic biodegradation. Full article

Sea cucumbers are valuable in aquaculture, but their cultivation faces challenges from diseases such as skin ulceration syndrome caused by Vibrio alginolyticus (VA). This study aimed to isolate and identify probiotics capable of combating VA and improving sea cucumber’s growth performance. Pathogenic VA was identified, through 16S rDNA sequencing, confirming its high genetic similarity (>99%) to Vibrio alginolyticus. Two Bacillus strains, Bacillus licheniformis YB-1, and Bacillus megaterium YB-2, were isolated as potential probiotics, with identification supported by 16S rDNA phylogenetic analysis and deposition in microbial culture collections. They demonstrated strong antibacterial activity against VA in vitro without exhibiting antagonism when combined. Probiotic tolerance to environmental stressors was observed, while feeding trials revealed significant growth improvements in sea cucumbers, with the highest specific growth rates observed at 1 × 10⁶ CFU/mL for both strains. Immersion challenge tests showed that sea cucumbers treated with probiotics exhibited reduced symptoms of rotten skin syndrome and higher survival rates. The optimal combination of YB-1 and YB-2, with viable bacteria concentrations of 5 × 10⁷ CFU/mL each, achieved a 55% survival rate after a VA challenge, demonstrating their synergistic efficacy. These findings suggest that YB-1 and YB-2 offer promising probiotic solutions for enhancing sea cucumber health and resistance to VA infections in aquaculture. Full article

Probiotic administration has become common practice in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and promote gut health in preterm infants. While probiotics are generally considered safe, rare cases of probiotic-related sepsis have been reported. We present a case of Lactobacillus rhamnosus sepsis in a preterm infant, highlighting the challenges involved in its diagnosis. The infant developed symptoms of sepsis on the 13th day of probiotic treatment. Laboratory analyses, including MALDI-TOF, BioFire BCID2 panel, and whole-genome sequencing (WGS), helped confirm the diagnosis and the presence of Lactobacillus rhamnosus. In this case, accurately identifying the Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain proved challenging, as initial analyses using the Vitek 2 system yielded incorrect identifications. This highlights the limitations of automated systems in distinguishing closely related species, reinforcing the need for advanced molecular techniques to achieve precise strain identification and confirm a probiotic-related infection. Given these diagnostic complexities, it is crucial for clinicians to maintain a high index of suspicion for probiotic-related infections in cases of unexplained sepsis, as this awareness can prompt further diagnostic investigations to ensure accurate pathogen identification. The infant responded to ampicillin therapy, showing clinical improvement within 10 days and was discharged in good health at 67 days of life. This case underscores the importance of advanced molecular diagnostic methods to confirm probiotic-related infections and highlights the need for caution in administering probiotics to vulnerable populations, such as preterm infants. Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for probiotic-associated sepsis in unexplained cases of infection and tailor antibiotic therapy based on susceptibility profiles. These findings emphasize the need for rigorous monitoring, appropriate probiotic strain selection, and optimized safety protocols in NICUs to mitigate potential risks. Full article

Background/Objectives: Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) produce several diverse metabolites during fermentation that play key roles in enhancing health and food quality. These metabolites include peptides, organic acids, exopolysaccharides, and antimicrobial compounds, which contribute to gut health, immune system modulation, and pathogen inhibition. This study analyzed the intracellular (Met-Int) and extracellular metabolites (Met-Ext-CFS; cell-free supernatant) of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UTNGt2, a probiotic strain isolated from Theobroma grandiflorum. Methods: The assessment was performed using capillary LC-MS/MS metabolomics with a SWATH-based data-independent acquisition approach to identify molecules associated with antimicrobial activity. Results: The integration of metabolomic data with whole-genome annotation enabled the identification of several key metabolites, including amino acids, nucleotides, organic acids, oligopeptides, terpenes, and flavonoids, many of which were associated with the antimicrobial activity of UTNGt2. Pathway analysis reveals critical processes such as secondary metabolite biosynthesis, nucleotide and galactose metabolism, and cofactor biosynthesis. By integrating RiPP (ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptide) cluster gene predictions with LC-MS data, this study validates the production of specific RiPPs and uncovers novel bioactive compounds encoded within the UTNGt2 genome. The oligopeptide val-leu-pro-val-pro-gln found in both Met-Int (ESI+) and Met-Ext-CFS (ESI+) may contribute to the strain’s antimicrobial strength. It could also enhance probiotic and fermentation-related functions. Conclusions: While genome-based predictions highlight the strain’s biosynthetic potential, the actual metabolite profile is influenced by factors like transcriptional regulation, post-transcriptional and post-translational modifications, and environmental conditions. These findings emphasize the value of multi-omics approaches in providing a holistic understanding of metabolite production and its role in antimicrobial activity. Full article