Search Results (1,473)

Background/Objectives: Taro (Colocasia esculenta L.) is a nutritionally rich and historically significant crop widely consumed in tropical and subtropical regions. Poi, a traditional Hawaiian food made from mashed cooked taro corms, is lauded for its digestibility, prebiotic properties, and potential health benefits. The goal of our study was to evaluate the effects of natural fermentation on the nutritional and metabolic profiles of five commercial poi brands from Hawai‘i. Methods: All poi were fermented at 25 °C for 24 h and 48 h. Resistant starch (RS) and non-resistant starch (NRS) were analyzed using Megazyme assay kits, minerals were analyzed by the EPA 3050B method, fermenting bacteria were analyzed by 16S sequencing, and global metabolites were analyzed using a gas chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Results: RS and NRS significantly increased in fermented poi, while mineral composition remained unaffected. Untargeted global metabolomic analysis revealed fermentation-induced shifts in metabolite profiles, with increased amino acid concentrations but no changes in essential fatty acids, vitamin E, or flavanols. Fermentation increased the dominance of health-promoting lactic acid bacteria (LAB) such as Leuconostoc, Lactococcus, Weissella, and Lactobacillus, known for their health-promoting properties. No significant correlations were identified among the fermenting bacteria and metabolites. This is probably one of the first comprehensive evaluations to identify the impact of fermentation on the starch, mineral, fermenting microbes, and metabolite content of commercial poi and show the presence of 18 amino acids, including nine essential amino acids. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the nutritional and microbiological significance of fermented poi and its potential as a functional food. Further studies are warranted to explore the health benefits and probiotic effects of poi. Full article

Although traditionally sidelined by live probiotic effects, Lactobacilli-derived Microbe-Associated Molecular Patterns (MAMPs) are emerging as potent modulators of innate and adaptive immune responses, capable of acting independently of bacterial viability. However, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. These MAMPs, such as peptidoglycan (PGN), lipoteichoic acid (LTA), and exopolysaccharides (EPSs), interact with pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) like Toll-like receptors (TLRs), initiating immune-signaling cascades that regulate cytokine production and inflammation. Lactobacilli-derived MAMPs exhibit dual immunomodulatory effects: they can enhance pro-inflammatory responses, e.g., interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) under inflammatory contexts, while enhancing regulatory pathways via IL-10 and regulatory T-cell (T_regs) induction in anti-inflammatory settings. Importantly, these immunomodulatory properties persist in the absence of bacterial viability, making MAMPs promising candidates for postbiotic therapies. This opens new avenues for MAMP-based strategies to target inflammation, overcoming the risks associated with live bacterial administration. This review examines the therapeutic relevance of non-viable MAMPs, particularly in inflammatory diseases where they have demonstrated benefits in reducing tissue damage, enhancing gut barrier function, and alleviating disease symptoms. Additionally, we discuss regulatory and translational challenges hindering their clinical implementation, highlighting the need for standardized characterization, a clear safety framework, and strain-specific profiling. Given their ability to fine-tune immune responses, MAMPs represent an emerging strategy for innovative treatments aimed at restoring immune balance and reinforcing host–microbe interactions. Full article

Plant-based fermented coconut yogurt, valued for its functional properties, requires transformation into a shelf-stable powder, necessitating carriers to overcome particle stickiness and preserve probiotic viability. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of polysaccharide carriers (maltodextrins DE 2, 10, and 19, and resistant dextrin) on processing efficiency, physicochemical stability, and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) viability. The feed, standardized to 15% total solids (initial LAB counts of 8.54 log CFU/g), was spray-dried at a 120 °C inlet temperature and a 65 °C outlet temperature. The drying condition reduced LAB viability by two log cycles regardless of the tested carriers. Maltodextrin DE 19 showed the highest powder yield, the lowest water activity, and a higher water solubility index. No significant differences in bulk density, pH, titratable acidity, and lactic acid content were observed among samples. Low-DE maltodextrins (DE 2 and 10) demonstrated significantly higher retention of sensitive malic and citric acids compared to DE 19. The current findings suggested that high-DE carriers provided beneficial effects on physical processing via kinetic shell formation, while low-DE carriers were able to protect against the loss of small organic acids. Overall, the study lays a foundation for spray-dried carrier development for coconut yogurt. Full article

A novel xylanase gene (RuXyn854) was identified from the rumen metagenome and was heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli to produce xylo-oligosaccharides (XOSs) as a prebiotic in this study. RuXyn854, a member of glycosyl hydrolase family 10, demonstrated peak enzymatic activity at pH 7.0 and 50 °C. RuXyn854 retains more than 50% of its activity after treatment at 100 °C for 10 min, highlighting the enzyme’s excellent heat resistance. RuXyn854 showed a preferential hydrolyzation of xylan, especially rice straw xylan. RuXyn854 activity was significantly increased in the presence of 15 mM Mn²⁺, 0.25% Tween-20, and 0.25% Triton X-100 (125%, 20%, and 26%, respectively). The reaction temperature (30, 40, and 50 °C), dosage (0.20, 0.27, and 0.34 U), and time (90, 120, and 150 min) of RuXyn854 affected the XOS yield and composition, with a higher yield at 0.27 U, 50 °C, and 120–150 min. Xylobiose, xylotriose, and xylotetraose were characterized as the predominant XOS products resulting from the enzymatic hydrolysis of wheat straw xylan by RuXyn854, with xylose present at a mere 0.49% of the total yield. The prebiotic potential of XOSs was assessed through in vitro fermentation with established probiotic strains of Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus brevis. The results showed that, regardless of incubation time, XOSs stimulated the growth and xylanolytic enzyme secretion of the two probiotics compared to the controls. These results demonstrate that the feature of RuXyn854 to withstand temperatures up to 100 °C is impressive, and its ability to hydrolyze wheat xylan into XOSs promotes the growth of probiotics. Full article

Skin hyperpigmentation is primarily regulated by melanogenesis, in which tyrosinase and related enzymes play pivotal roles. Probiotics have recently been attracting attention as a cosmetic ingredient due to their skin-friendly and eco-friendly properties. In particular, microbial metabolites, known as postbiotics, are gaining attention for their superior safety, stability, and efficacy compared with probiotics. In this study, we investigated the whitening effect and molecular mechanisms of phenyllactic acid (PLA), a metabolite derived from Limosilactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) culture broth. In B16F10 melanoma cells, the effects of PLA were evaluated by measuring melanin content, cellular tyrosinase activity, enzyme kinetics, and the expression of melanogenesis-related proteins. PLA significantly inhibited melanin production and cellular tyrosinase activity in α-MSH–stimulated B16F10 melanoma cells without inducing cytotoxicity. PLA downregulated tyrosinase-related proteins such as TRP-1 and TRP-2, and competitively inhibited tyrosinase. The inhibition constants (Ki) for L-tyrosine and L-DOPA were 12.63 mM and 0.68 mM, respectively. These findings suggest that PLA, a postbiotic derived from lactic acid bacteria, may serve as a safe and effective whitening ingredient, providing a scientific basis for the development of functional skin-whitening cosmetics. Full article

Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.; Cannabaceae), traditionally cultivated for fiber, also represents a valuable source of nutrient-rich seed oil. In this study, cold-pressed hemp seed oils from three Romanian varieties (Teodora, Silvana, and Armanca) were evaluated for their fatty acid composition, minor bioactive constituents, antioxidant activity, growth-promoting property toward probiotic strains in vitro, and molecular docking interactions with probiotic targets. Gas chromatography revealed a fatty acid profile dominated by linoleic (49.4–51.9%), oleic (16.3–22.8%), and α-linolenic acids (9.8–14.4%), resulting in favorable PUFA/SFA ratios (5.17–6.39) and ω-6/ω-3 ratios (3.93–5.53). The oils also contained phenolics (118–160 mg GAE/kg), chlorophylls (6.18–8.31 mg/kg), and carotenoids (2.58–3.37 mg/kg), which contributed to their antioxidant activity (DPPH inhibition 35.92 µM TE/100 g–43.37 µM TE/100 g). Broth microdilution assays against Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG, L. paracasei ATCC BAA-52, and L. acidophilus ATCC 4356 demonstrated strain- and dose-dependent potential to promote probiotic growth under in vitro conditions. While L. rhamnosus and L. paracasei were inhibited at low concentrations and only mildly stimulated at higher levels, L. acidophilus showed robust growth promotion, reaching +54.7% effect and CP = 1.55 with Teodora oil at 16 mg/mL. Molecular docking highlighted strong binding affinities of γ-linolenic and linoleic acids with key metabolic enzymes involved in probiotic metabolism (hydratase, enolase, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, ribonucleoside hydrolase), forming stable hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions which are explored in defining the stability of the ligand-protein complexes. These results indicate that both major fatty acids and minor bioactive constituents contribute to the nutritional and antioxidant value of Romanian hemp seed oils and reveal a potential to promote probiotic growth under in vitro conditions, as supported by complementary in silico evidence. Full article

The human skin microbiome, defined as a multifaceted ecosystem comprising bacteria, fungi, viruses, and mites, plays a pivotal role in maintaining skin homeostasis and regulating immune responses. In recent years, an increasing amount of evidence has illuminated the considerable influence exerted by microbiomes on the pathophysiology of dermatological ailments. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of contemporary findings concerning the microbiome’s role in acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, and hair disorders, while also addressing the emerging concept of the gut–skin axis and how it could interfere in these skin disorders. Alterations in microbial composition, referred to as dysbiosis, have been associated with inflammatory processes and barrier dysfunction, thereby contributing to the severity and chronicity of diseases. Distinct microbial profiles have been identified as correlating with specific skin conditions. For instance, variations in Cutibacterium acnes phylotypes have been associated with the development of acne, whereas alterations in Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus species have been linked to the processes of aging and pigmentation patterns. Furthermore, the composition of the microbiome is examined in relation to its impact on cosmetic outcomes. It also engages with increasing interest in the modulation of microbiota through the topical application of bioactive compounds. The incorporation of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics into cosmetic formulations constitutes a novel strategy aimed at enhancing skin health. In the domain of dermatological therapies, postbiotics have emerged as a significant class of substances, particularly due to their remarkable stability, safety, and immunomodulatory properties. These characteristics position them as promising candidates for incorporation into dermatological treatments. Recent studies have underscored the significance of microbiome-informed strategies within the domains of therapeutic and preventive dermatology, emphasizing the potential of such approaches to positively influence patient outcomes. As our understanding of this field continues to evolve, skin microbiomes are poised to emerge as a pivotal area of focus in the realm of personalized skin care and treatment. This development presents novel and innovative approaches for the management of skin conditions, characterized by enhanced specificity and efficacy. Full article

Ageing is often accompanied by gut microbiota alterations that contribute to dysbiosis—a recognised hallmark of ageing and a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. Probiotic interventions offer a promising approach to restore microbial homeostasis. This preliminary study explored the potential modulatory effects of Malaysian kefir water, a Lactobacillus-enriched fermented beverage with previously reported antioxidant and neuroprotective properties in D-galactose-induced ageing mice. Kefir water was administered as both a pre-treatment and co-treatment, and gut microbiota changes were assessed using 16S rRNA metagenomic sequencing of faecal samples. Alpha and beta diversity analyses showed a stable microbial diversity across treatments. However, preliminary descriptive trends suggested that kefir water may influence specific bacterial populations. Increases were observed in Muribaculaceae and Lactobacillaceae, along with apparent decreases in Lachnospiraceae and Prevotellaceae. Both kefir treatments tended to increase the abundance of Ligilactobacillus, with the co-treatment group appearing to restore the Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio toward control levels, while the pre-treatment group showed a tendency to further reduce this ratio. Collectively, these findings provide preliminary indications that kefir water may hold potential as a dietary approach to modulate gut microbial changes associated with ageing. However, confirmation through studies with larger sample sizes and broader analytical coverage is necessary to substantiate these initial observations. Full article

The enteric nervous system (ENS), frequently referred to as the “second brain,” is integral to maintaining gastrointestinal and systemic homeostasis. The structural and functional homeostasis of the ENS is crucial for both local intestinal processes (digestion, immunity) and systemic physiological equilibrium via the gut–brain axis, directly influencing overall health and disease. In recent years, dietary substances have attracted increasing scholarly attention for their potential to modulate the ENS, attributed to their safety and accessibility. This review commences with a systematic exploration of the anatomical structure of the ENS, including the myenteric and submucosal plexuses, its cellular constituents such as enteric neurons and enteric glial cells, and its core physiological functions, encompassing the regulation of gastrointestinal motility, the secretion–absorption balance, and the maintenance of immune homeostasis. Subsequently, it delineates the classification, distribution, and properties of essential dietary components, encompassing polyphenols, short-chain fatty acids, amino acids and their derivatives, as well as prebiotics and probiotics. Additionally, it examines the mechanisms through which these substances modulate the physiological functions of the ENS, including the regulation of intestinal motility, support for neuronal survival and network integrity, and the maintenance of neuro-immune homeostasis. The review concludes by highlighting current limitations—including reliance on rodent models, unclear human ENS mechanisms, and imprecise interventions—and proposes future directions focused on precision medicine, clinical translation, and advanced tools like single-cell sequencing and targeted delivery systems. Full article

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease, and current treatments are limited by significant side effects. Deer bone, which is rich in proteins and various active compounds, possesses anti-inflammatory and bone-health-promoting properties. However, its fermented product’s effects on RA treatment remain unexplored. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of probiotic-fermented deer bone aqueous extract (BbF) in an adjuvant arthritis (AA) rat model, combined with LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage models. In vivo experiments showed that BbF significantly reduced paw swelling, arthritis index, and improved bone mineral density. BbF also alleviated synovial hyperplasia and inflammatory cell infiltration. It suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, etc.) and inhibited macrophage migration and invasion. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant enrichment of the Notch signaling pathway, and Western blot confirmed the downregulation of Notch3, Notch4, DLL4, and Jagged1 proteins. BbF also restored gut microbiota homeostasis, increasing beneficial bacteria such as Firmicutes and Clostridia, while decreasing potential pathogens like Proteobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, and Escherichia-Shigella. Furthermore, BbF enhanced short-chain fatty acids (SCFCs) production, including butyrate and caproic acid. These results indicate that BbF alleviates RA by inhibiting the Notch signaling pathway and regulating gut microbiota, providing new insights for the development of functional foods with immune-modulatory properties. Full article

Sour soup, a traditional fermented specialty from Northeast China, is renowned for its distinctive aroma and various health benefits. Here, we report the probiotic properties of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Z45—a strain isolated from sour soup broth—along with its fermentative potential in sour soup production. This strain is suitable for food fermentation due to its absence of biogenic amine production and non-hemolytic activity. It exhibited strong tolerance to simulated gastrointestinal conditions and demonstrated high adherence capability to Caco-2 cells. Additionally, the strain displayed antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that Z45 carries no virulence or antibiotic resistance genes. It also harbors multiple carbohydrate-active enzymes and a complete folate biosynthesis pathway, alongside genes associated with stress response, antioxidant activity, and adhesion. Subsequently, Z45 was employed as a starter culture for sour soup fermentation, and its effects on the physicochemical and sensory properties of the product were evaluated. The results indicated that fermentation with Z45 did not alter the physicochemical properties of sour soup but significantly enhanced its sensory attributes. Compared to spontaneous fermentation, Z45-fermented sour soup showed reduced levels of harmful biogenic amines, improved flavor and overall sensory quality, notable enrichment of Lactobacillus and Oscillospirales in the microbial community, and upregulation of beneficial metabolites such as flavonoids and glycerophosphocholine. In summary, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Z45 is safe, demonstrates probiotic potential, and holds promise for improving the quality and functional properties of fermented foods. Full article

Background/Objectives: Certain components of natural products help maintain the oral microbiota balance, thereby promoting oral health. This study aimed to identify natural components with anticariogenic properties by analyzing evidence from in vivo studies. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The literature search was performed across multiple databases and included English-language studies published between 2013 and 2025. The review included intervention and comparative studies that examined the effects of dietary habits involving natural components in participants of any age, with or without dental caries. Results: A total of 77 studies were included in the review, most of which were clinical trials conducted in pediatric populations. To assess the impact of the interventions, most studies measured outcomes such as Streptococcus mutans levels, dental caries incidence, and salivary pH, among other parameters. The most frequently studied components included probiotics, plant extracts, sugar substitutes, propolis, arginine, dairy products, among others. Significant effects were most reported on biological risk factors (72.8%). In addition, 16.9% of the studies reported a statistically significant reduction in clinically diagnosed dental caries. Conclusions: This review identified preliminary evidence suggesting that certain natural compounds may play a role in modulating cariogenic factors. However, further high-quality studies are needed to strengthen the evidence base and confirm these findings. The protocol for this review was registered on the Open Science Framework platform. Full article

Global consumer demand for probiotic-enriched functional foods has increased as consumers become increasingly aware of the connection between what they eat and its role in their long-term health. Compared with conventional foods that primarily deliver fundamental nutrients, functional foods include biologically active compounds capable of influencing physiological processes. While traditionally used probiotic strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are still at the center of this trend, there is growing interest in the exploration of emerging and novel microbial candidates that harbor new functional properties. This review addresses the characterization, modes of action, technological limitations, regulatory guidelines, and prospective health benefits of new probiotic strains in functional foods. The review further highlights the need for precise strain selection, novel encapsulation technologies for viability, and strict safety assessments in accordance with EFSA’s QPS (Qualified Presumption of Safety) and the United States FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) specifications. Current research focuses on the classical benefits of probiotics, including gut microbiota modulation, immunomodulation, antimicrobial activity, lowering of cholesterol, and mental health. However, long-term clinical validation, strain specificity, personalized application, and effective communication to consumers are some areas where gaps remain. Addressing these challenges through the incorporation of omics technologies, synthetic biology, and more detailed microbiome–host interaction studies will be the key to unlocking the full potential of next-generation probiotics and sustaining consumer trust in this emerging market. Full article

Hyperuricemia (HUA), a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated serum uric acid resulting from imbalanced production and excretion, is associated with gout and other serious health issues. This study aimed to screen out the potential probiotics with HUA-alleviating properties among 20 Lactobacillus strains. The results showed that L. reuteri Urob-7 exhibited the highest degradation rates for inosine and guanosine (82.10% and 88.78%, respectively) and strong xanthine oxidase (XOD) inhibitory activity (62.86%). In a HUA mouse model induced by inosine, guanosine, and potassium oxonate, L. reuteri Urob-7 intervention significantly reduced serum uric acid levels by 46.54%, restoring them to levels similar to control groups, and improved kidney function indicators. Moreover, Urob-7 reduced hepatic XOD activity by 37.6% and downregulated XOD expression in the intestines, decreasing excessive uric acid synthesis. It also significantly inhibited the NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammatory pathway, reducing the expression levels of NF-κB and NLRP3 in the kidneys by 39.3% and 47.6%, respectively. Furthermore, L. reuteri Urob-7 increased the abundance of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria (e.g., Ruminococcus and Intestinimonas) while reducing the proportion of pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Bacteroides and Anaerovorax), thus ameliorating gut microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal barrier dysfunction. In summary, L. reuteri Urob-7 effectively relieved HUA by modulating uric acid metabolism, suppressing inflammation, and improving gut microbiota balance. These results highlighted its potential as a promising candidate for HUA. Full article

Lactoferrin is a multifunctional glycoprotein showing multiple biological properties (antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, antigenotoxic, prebiotic, probiotic) that play an essential role in maintaining host physiological homeostatic condition by exerting immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activities. Thanks to these biological properties, lactoferrin has widely been studied as a therapeutic agent in gastroenteric diseases, neonatal sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis, lung diseases, and COVID-19, showing very heterogeneous results based on the disease considered and the population studied. Since lactoferrin is one of the main components of neutrophils’ secondary granules, it has also been investigated as a potential disease-monitoring biomarker, especially for diseases in which inflammation is a key component. This narrative review offers updated and comprehensive insights into the available literature on lactoferrin biology, biological properties, and clinical utility. Full article