Ontologies are structured frameworks for representing knowledge by systematically defining concepts, categories, and their relationships. While widely adopted in biomedicine, ontologies remain largely absent in mental health research and clinical care, where the field continues to rely heavily on existing classification systems (DSM). Although useful for clinical communication and administrative purposes, they lack the semantic structure, computational, and reasoning properties needed to integrate diverse data sources or support artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled analysis. This reliance on classification systems limits efforts to analyze and interpret complex, heterogeneous psychiatric data. In mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder, the lack of formalized semantic models contributes to diagnostic inconsistencies, fragmented data structures, and barriers to precision medicine. Ontologies, by contrast, provide a standardized, machine-readable foundation for linking multimodal data sources, such as electronic health records (EHRs), genetic and neuroimaging data, and social determinants of health, while enabling secure, de-identified computation. This review surveys the current landscape of mental health ontologies and highlights the Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO) as a promising framework for bridging psychiatric and medical phenotypes. We describe ongoing efforts to enhance HPO through curated psychiatric terms, refined definitions, and structured mappings of observed phenomena. The Global Bipolar Cohort (GBC), an international collaboration, exemplifies this approach through the development of a consensus-driven ontology tailored to bipolar disorder. By supporting semantic interoperability, reproducible research, and individualized care, ontology-based approaches provide essential infrastructure for overcoming the limitations of classification systems and advancing data-driven precision psychiatry.

Mulberry-derived postbiotics (MDP) have demonstrated promising bioactive properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects; however, their specific role in modulating gut inflammation and microbiota composition remains underexplored. Given the growing interest in functional food ingredients for gut health and managing inflammatory disorders, this study aims to evaluate the effects of MDP in alleviating intestinal inflammation and altering the gut microbiota in an LPS-induced mouse model of systemic inflammation. MDP administration significantly mitigated LPS-induced pathological changes in the intestine, liver, spleen, and kidneys, thereby improving systemic health and immune function. Histological analysis revealed reduced inflammation and tissue damage in the intestinal epithelium, supporting the potential of MDP to improve gut barrier integrity. An antioxidant assay revealed that MDP decreased the malonaldehyde (MDA) levels and increased the enzymatic activities of CAT, SOD, and GSH in response to LPS administration, indicating enhanced cellular antioxidant defenses. Inflammatory cytokine analysis showed that MDP downregulated proinflammatory markers such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, MYD88, Nrf2 COX-2, and HO1, while upregulating TLR4, resulting in potential anti-inflammatory effects by modulating the TLR4-NF-κb pathway. Moreover, MDP promoted beneficial alterations in gut microbiota composition by increasing the abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, which are linked to gut health and inflammation regulation. The changes in gut microbiota composition suggest a potential mechanism by which MDP may help restore gut homeostasis and reduce systemic inflammation. These findings suggest that MDP may serve as promising functional food ingredients that support immune health, reduce inflammation, and promote gut microbiota balance, offering potential applications in fortified foods and nutraceuticals aimed at mitigating inflammatory and metabolic disorders.

Gastrointestinal parasites impact the health and productivity of domestic birds and may even be more common in production systems with lower biosafety conditions. In this context, backyard poultry production systems (BPPS), defined as small-scale family production systems, could be more affected. However, information about its epidemiology is limited in the Central Zone of Chile. This study aimed to determine the risk factors and spatial distribution of gastrointestinal parasites in BPPS in Central Chile. Thus, feces samples were collected from 51 backyards and analyzed using copro-parasitological techniques. In parallel, an epidemiological survey was conducted on the farmers, and the data were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression to identify risk factors. Spatial analysis was performed with the detected parasite species to determine high-risk clusters. Eimeria spp. was the most frequently detected parasite (72.5%), followed by Capillaria spp. (50.9%) and Ascaridia galli (49%). Regarding parasitic burden, nearly 90% of BPPS showed low parasitic burden for Eimeria spp. and helminths. In turn, the availability of potable drinking water (95% CI: 0.054-0.905; p = 0.036) and proper ventilation of the pens (95% CI: 0.003-0.429; p = 0.009) reduced the presence of parasites. Spatial high-risk clusters were detected for Eimeria spp. (RR = 2.60; p-value < 0.0001), A. galli (RR = 2.93; p-value = 0.021), and Trichostrongylus spp. (RR = 5.85; p-value = 0.050).

Fledgling broiler ducks vary in body weight and growth rate. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum metabolites and the intestinal microbiota in Cherry Valley broiler ducks with different finishing weights and to reveal differences in their metabolic regulation and microbial composition. Serum and cecum content samples were collected from Cherry Valley broiler ducks of different finishing weights. Metabolites were identified and compared using untargeted metabolomics, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, multivariate statistics and bioinformatics. Six key findings emerged. First, serum biochemical parameters showed that AST and ALT levels were significantly lower in the high weight group (Group H) than in the low weight group (Group L), and serum immunoglobulin IgG levels were significantly higher in group H. Second, the chorionic height to crypt depth ratio of the duodenum was significantly higher in group H than in group L. Third, the gut microbial community diversity or abundance was lower in broiler ducks in group L. Fourth, LEfSe analysis showed that the biomarker for group L was Streptococcus, whereas for group H it was Faecalibacterium. Fifth, a total of 127 differential metabolites were identified (49 up-regulated and 78 down-regulated). Finally, Spearman's correlation analysis showed that Spearman's correlation analyses showed that the Lipid-related serum metabolites were higher in low-body recombinant broiler ducks, mainly Lathosterol, Cholesterol, Cynaratriol and Leukotriene B4. In addition to lipid-associated serum metabolites in high-body recombination, The water-soluble vitamin-like metabolite Pantothenate and the antibiotic-like metabolite Tylosin were high. The cecum microbiota is strongly associated with metabolites, especially Faecalibacterium, unclassified Tannerellaceae, Subdoligranulum, Alistipes, and [Ruminococcus] torques_group, with which it exhibits strong Correlation. Broiler ducks with higher body weights have a better intestinal villous structure, enhanced digestion and absorption, higher levels of immunoglobulin secretion and superior growth performance. Broiler ducks with different body weights differed in plasma metabolites and cecum flora. Spearman's correlation analyses showed that the Correlation between differential metabolites and differential gut microbial genera.

Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua (PC) is a traditional Chinese medicine with a long history of use as pharmaceuticals or functional foods. Wine steaming is the main processing method of PC, which changes the structure of polysaccharides and oligosaccharides in PC and enhances biological activities. This study investigated the structural characterization of raw and wine-steamed PC oligosaccharides and the differences in the immunomodulatory effects using cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppression rat model. The oligosaccharides content and molecular weight of PC after wine steaming decreased, the proportion of oligosaccharides in total sugars and the reducing sugars content increased, and the monosaccharides composition of oligosaccharides changed. The raw Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua oligosaccharides (PCCO) and the wine-steamed Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua oligosaccharides (PCWO) exerted regulatory effects on organ index, immunoglobulin G (IgG), complement 3 (C3) spleen and colon tissue morphology, hematopoietic function of immunosuppressive rats treated by cyclophosphamide (CTX). Both PCCO and PCWO significantly regulated and improved the diversity and abundance of gut microbiota in immunosuppressed rats and increased the content of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the feces of rats, and the regulating effect of PCWO was better than PCCO. Differential microbiota analysis showed that PCWO could promote the proliferation of Bifidobacterium, Bacteroides, Oscillibacter, Roseburia, and Alistipes. In summary, the difference in the structural characteristics of PC oligosaccharides might be the reason for immune enhancement. This study could provide a theoretical basis for clarifying the scientific connotation of wine steaming to enhance the efficacy of PC, and promote the application of wine-steamed PC as an immunomodulator in pharmaceuticals or functional foods.

To research the clinical characteristics, risk factors, the correlation between bacterial pulmonary infection and immune function of advanced lung adenocarcinoma patients complicated with bacterial pulmonary infection.

334 stage III and IV lung adenocarcinoma patients admitted to the first affiliated hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2020 to March 2023 were selected and divided into an infection group (n = 240) and a control group (n= 72) according to whether complicated with bacterial pulmonary infection. The clinical characteristics were analyzed. The pulmonary microbiota and human T lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+) were detected. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the risk factors for pulmonary bacterial infection in advanced lung adenocarcinoma patients.

Among 334 patients, 264 cases were complicated with pulmonary bacterial infection, and 70 cases had no pulmonary bacterial infection. In total, 544 pathogenic bacteria were isolated from the patients. Of these, 170 strains (31.25%) were Gram-negative bacilli, 162 strains (29.78%) were Gram-positive cocci, 27 strains (4.96%) Gram-positive bacilli. There were statistically significant differences in age, smoking, combined diseases, TNM staging, CD3+ T cell percentage, and CD4+ T cell percentage between the two groups (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed smoking, bronchiectasis, and diabetes were independent risk factors leading to late-stage lung adenocarcinoma patients with bacterial pulmonary infection (P < 0.05). In those patients on immune checkpoint inhibitors, the lung Gram-positive group has a higher number of CD4+ T cells and CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio than the Gram-negative group (P < 0.05).

Smoking, bronchiectasis, and diabetes are risk factors for lung bacterial infection in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma. The effect of immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment on T cells is more pronounced in Gram positive bacteria.

Nontyphoidal serovars of Salmonella enterica subsp enterica frequently colonize the intestinal tracts of chickens, creating risks of contamination of meat and egg food products. These serovars seldom cause disease in chickens over 3 weeks of age. Colonization is generally transient but can continue to circulate in a flock for many months. Vaccination of breeders and layers is the most effective method of control of infections with serovars Enteritidis and Typhimurium, and the development of these vaccines or other preventative treatments requires challenge studies to demonstrate efficacy. However, establishing a successful challenge model where the control birds are colonized to a sufficient extent to be able to demonstrate a statistically significant reduction from the vaccine or treatment is problematic. A meta-analysis of published S. Enteritidis challenge studies was performed to pursue the best challenge model conditions that provide consistent control colonization outcomes. Challenge at sexual maturity was significantly more effective in achieving at least 80% colonization of control hens.RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTSSalmonella challenge chicken models do not always achieve high colonization levels in controls.The age of hen is important in achieving good caecal colonization.Challenge around sexual maturity provides the best control colonization outcome.A challenge dose rate of 105 CFU/ bird is adequate in birds under 30 weeks of age.

Farnesol (FAN), one of plant essential oils, is widely found in a variety of natural plants. Studies demonstrated that FAN contributed to the antioxidant and immune function as well as improving the intestinal flora, however effects of it on the broiler chickens has not been fully characterized. In the present study, we present an undated report of its effects on growth performance, antioxidant and immune functions of broiler chickens challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). One hundred healthy male AA+ broiler chickens with uniform body weight were divided into control and FAN groups, there were five replicates and 10 birds in each one. The trial lasted for 28 days, and two birds with uniform body weight were selected from each replicate to be treated with intraperitoneal injection of LPS at the end of the trial, and then samples were harvested after 3 h. Results showed that dietary supplementary with FAN tended to improve the feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P = 0.058). The levels of serum lactate dehydrogenase and IL-1β were elevated in the birds challenged with LPS, as well as the content of malondialdehyde in the ileal and liver (P < 0.05). Additionally, LPS treatment descended the levels of catalase and superoxide dismutase, and the ratio of villi height to crypt depth in the ileum (P < 0.05). Dietary supplementation with FAN was able to alleviate the abnormal changes of the above indexes caused by LPS. In addition, dietary supplementation with FAN also contributed to alleviating the up-regulation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4), nuclear transcription factor κB (NF-κB), myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MYD88), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and IL-1β transcription levels in the ileum and liver of birds challenged with LPS (P < 0.05). Results of intestinal flora demonstrated that the relative abundance of Candidatus Arthromitus was up-regulated in the ileal chyme of birds challenged with LPS, and dietary supplementation with FAN could reshape it. Intriguingly, the relative abundance of Candidatus Arthromitus was positively correlated with the mRNA levels of TLR-4, NF-κB, MYD88, TNF-α and IL-1β in the ileum (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with FAN might confer a protective effect on the intestine of broiler chickens challenged with lipopolysaccharide by reshaping intestinal flora, especially Candidatus Arthromitus, and regulating TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Probiotics exert a diverse range of immunomodulatory effects on the human gut immune system. These mechanisms encompass strengthening the intestinal mucosal barrier, inhibiting pathogen adhesion and colonization, stimulating immune modulation, and fostering the production of beneficial substances. As a result, probiotics hold significant potential in the prevention and treatment of various conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer. A pivotal mechanism by which probiotics achieve these effects is through modulating the expression of host miRNAs. miRNAs, non-coding RNA molecules, are vital regulators of fundamental biological processes like cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. By interacting with mRNAs, miRNAs can either promote their degradation or repress their translation, thereby regulating gene expression post-transcriptionally and modulating the immune system. This review provides a comprehensive overview of how probiotics modulate gut immune responses by altering miRNA expression levels, both upregulating and downregulating specific miRNAs. It further delves into how this modulation impacts the host's resistance to pathogens and susceptibility to diseases, offering a theoretical foundation and practical insights for the clinical utilization of probiotics in disease prevention and therapy.

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a potent marine neurotoxin found in pufferfish, causing severe poisoning or death if consumed improperly. Studies have indicated that intestinal symbiotic microbiota are associated with the production and accumulation of TTX in pufferfish. However, the specific symbiotic microorganisms involved in these processes and their respective functions remain unclear. This study explored differences in intestinal microbiota related to the TTX content between toxic and non-toxic tiger puffer Takifugu rubripes. We found that the dominant phyla exhibiting significant abundance differences between the two groups were Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota, with the core bacterial genera being Rikenella, Vibrio, Photobacterium, and Bacteroides. Moreover, the genera Marinimicrobium, Idomarina, Galbibacter, and Brumimicrobium were reported for the first time to be potentially associated with TTX bioaccumulation in T. rubripes. In addition, an integrated analysis with our previous study indicated that the "ABC transporters" pathway may play significant roles in the production and transport of TTX in both symbiotic microorganisms and T. rubripes. This study preliminarily investigated the intestinal symbiotic bacteria associated with the accumulation and metabolism of TTX in T. rubripes, as well as screening potential microbial biomarkers for assessing the safety of pufferfish.

The health status of the growing infant is closely related to the development of the gut microbiota during infancy, which is also a major stimulator of the immune system. Goat milk oligosaccharides (gMOs) are a class of bioactive compounds in goat milk, which have attracted extensive research interest in recent years. Recent studies have highlighted that gMOs as prebiotics can regulate the gut microbiota, exhibit multiple health effects, and act as immunomodulators. This article outlines the structure, classification, and functions of gMOs. In addition, we also deeply explored the mechanism of gMO interaction with infant gut microbiota and regulation of infant immunity. Finally, the possibility of gMOs as an effective substitute for natural prebiotics in breast milk is revisited. We concluded that gMOs improve infant immune function by regulating intestinal beneficial bacteria (Bifidobacteria, Lactobacilli, etc.) and their metabolism. Therefore, gMOs are significant to infant immune health and are expected to become a substitute for human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs).

This study was designed to assess the effectiveness of an authorized commercial standardized mixture of Artepillin-C, methyl-salicylates, flavonoids and curcuminoids (PHYTO AX'CELL™) provided intermittently during 8 weeks (wk) of trial to laying hens raised in enriched cages during the peak of the production, in the reduction of inflammation status, improving the immune response, and egg quality. In this study, 764 Lohmann LSL-White hens on the first day (d) of the 26th wk of age (T0), were randomly assigned to 2 replicated experimental groups, control and treated (n=382 each). The treatment was supplied in drinking water, as follows: 26th to 27th wk (T1, 14 d) first treatment administration at a dose of 1 mL/L (0.5 mL/L only the first d of the treatment); 28th to the 31st wk (T2, 4 wk of withdrawal period); 32nd to 33rd wk (T3, 14 d) second treatment at a dose of 1 mL/L, until the end of the trial (T4). At T0, mid-T3 and T4, 13 hens per group were sampled for serum biochemical analyses (metabolic profile, H/L ratio) and weighed, and 60 eggs per group were analyzed for quality parameters. At T4, 13 hens per group were sacrificed for histological investigations and gut IgA quantification. The treatment reduced the mortality rate in the treated group (0.00%) compared to the control (2.61%). An improvement in intestinal IgA production and immune reactivity in the treated hens was observed with a significant fluctuating trend of the heterophil, lymphocyte and their ratio (P < 0.05). The egg quality was improved by the treatment, with positive effects in the Haugh unit, shell weight and thickness (P < 0.05). A T4, significant reduction in duodenal and rectal pH was observed in the treated group (P < 0.05), without intestinal inflammation score changes, body weight, serum biochemistry, interleukin levels, and infectious bronchitis virus titers (P > 0.05). From the results, PHYTO AX'CELL™ improved the well-being and physical condition of laying hens raised in cages, modulating the immune system with a positive production of intestinal IgA, and egg quality parameters important for commercial purposes.

In the absence of infection, blood has previously been understood to be free of microbes. However, with advances in sequencing technology this notion has been challenged, prompting new investigations into microbial DNA within the blood of both healthy and diseased individuals. To comprehensively survey microbial DNA in blood, we separated blood into fractions (plasma, red blood cells, and buffy coat) and assessed if the microbial-DNA is cell-free by the addition of DNase to a subset of each fraction. We measured 16S rRNA gene copy number with digital droplet PCR and identified the taxonomic origin of the microbial DNA with synthetic full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing. As a use case, we examine microbial DNA from the blood of 5 men without prostate cancer (PC), 5 men with low-grade PC, and 5 men with high-grade PC. Our study demonstrates that the majority of microbial DNA is cell-free, indicating that it is not representative of proliferating microbes. Our analyses also revealed buffy coat had the lowest number of 16S rRNA gene copies yet highest number of genera of the fractions (median 23.3 copies/μL and 10 genera) and thus may be a useful fraction to study moving forward. Additionally, microbial DNA in blood may have utility as a biomarker, as we detected disease-associated compositional differences in the plasma and buffy coat fractions. This study lays the groundwork for rigorously studying microbial DNA in blood, however larger studies are needed to confirm our disease-association findings.

An alternative hatching system known as hatch on-farm (HOF) provides early access to feed compared to hatch in hatchery (HH) system. Early feeding may promote favorable gut development, potentially improving intestinal health and broiler performance. Previous studies have assessed the effects of HOF on chick quality, welfare and performance, its impacts on gut health remain inconclusive. A total of 560 Ross 308 male chicks were reared until d 38, hatched either in a hatchery (n = 280) or on-farm (n = 280), with 14 replicates per system and 20 birds per pen. Production parameters were periodically monitored. Digestive and immune organ characteristics, intestinal permeability and histomorphology were assessed on d 7, 14, and 38. High-throughput qPCR analyzed 79 ileal genes regarding barrier integrity, immune function, nutrient transporters, gut hormones, metabolism, and oxidation. HOF chicks had higher d1 body weights than HH chicks (P < 001), but this advantage disappeared within first week, with no subsequent performance differences. HOF chickens demonstrated increased duodenal villus width on d 7 and 14, and increased ileal crypt depth and submucosal thickness on d 7 (P < 0.05). Relative bursal weight was higher on d 14 (P = 0.018) and tended to be higher on d 38 in HOF chickens (P = 0.094). Intestinal permeability remained unaffected (P > 0.05), while HH chicks showed upregulation of gut barrier genes such as MUC5ac on d 7 and CLDN2 and MUC2 on d 14 (P < 0.05). HH chicks also showed upregulation of nutrient transports including VDR on d 7 and SLC30A1 and SLC5A9 on d 38, and decreased expression of the appetite-suppressing hormone CCK on d 7 (P < 0.05). HOF chicks upregulated immune-related genes, including IL-8 on d 7, IL-6, IFN-γ, AVBD9 on d 14, and NOS2 on d 38 (P < 0.05), and the oxidation gene HIF1A on d 38 (P = 0.039). In conclusion, although the HOF showed only transient growth advantages, it enhanced mucosal morphology and modulated immunity, indicating improved intestinal health.

Sleep deprivation is a prevalent issue in contemporary society, with significant ramifications for both physical and mental well-being. Emerging scientific evidence illuminates its intricate interplay with the gut-brain axis, a vital determinant of neurological function. Disruptions in sleep patterns disturb the delicate equilibrium of the gut microbiota, resulting in dysbiosis characterized by alterations in microbial composition and function. This dysbiosis contributes to the exacerbation of neurological disorders such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline through multifaceted mechanisms, including heightened neuroinflammation, disturbances in neurotransmitter signalling, and compromised integrity of the gut barrier. In response to these challenges, there is a burgeoning interest in therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring gut microbial balance and alleviating neurological symptoms precipitated by sleep deprivation. Probiotics, dietary modifications, and behavioural strategies represent promising avenues for modulating the gut microbiota and mitigating the adverse effects of sleep disturbances on neurological health. Moreover, the advent of personalized interventions guided by advanced omics technologies holds considerable potential for tailoring treatments to individualized needs and optimizing therapeutic outcomes. Interdisciplinary collaboration and concerted research efforts are imperative for elucidating the underlying mechanisms linking sleep, gut microbiota, and neurological function. Longitudinal studies, translational research endeavours, and advancements in technology are pivotal for unravelling the complex interplay between these intricate systems.

It is important to promote intestinal development and maturation of chicks for feed digestion and utilization, intestinal health, and disease resistance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary yeast cell wall polysaccharides (YCWP) addition on intestinal development and maturation of chickens and its potential action mechanism.

180 one-day-old male Arbor Acres broilers were randomly assigned to three groups containing control (basal diets without any antibiotics or anticoccidial drug), bacitracin methylene disalicylate (BMD)-treated group (50 mg/kg) and YCWP-supplemented group (100 mg/kg).

Compared with control group, in-feed antibiotic BMD continuous administration significantly decreased crypt depth (d 21) and villus height (d 42) along with mucosal maltase activity (d 42) in the ileum (P < 0.05). Also, BMD markedly downregulated gene expression levels of β-catenin, lysozyme, occludin and FABP-2 (d 21) and innate immune related genes CD83 and MHC-I mRNA levels (d 42, P < 0.05), and decreased goblet cell counts in the ileum of chickens (d 21 and d 42, P < 0.05). While, TLR-2, TLR-6 and iNOS mRNA abundances were notably upregulated by BMD treatment (d 42, P < 0.05). Nevertheless, dietary YCWP addition significantly increased the ratio of villus height to crypt depth (d 21), villus surface area (d 21 and d 42), ileal alkaline phosphatase and maltase activities as well as goblet cell (d 21 and d 42) and IgA-producing plasma cell numbers as compared to BMD treatment (d 21, P < 0.05). YCWP addition also upregulated gene expression levels of Lgr5, Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway related gene (Wnt3, β-catenin, d 21; β-catenin, d 42), intestinal cells proliferation marker Ki-67 and barrier function related genes (occludin, d 21 and d 42, P < 0.05). Moreover, YCWP significantly increased antigen presenting cell marker related genes (MHC-II, d 21; CD83 and MHC-I, d 42), TLR-1, TLR-2 and TLR-6 mRNA levels (d 21, P < 0.05). Cecal microbiome analysis showed that YCWP addition obviously improved cecal microbial composition, as indicated by increasing relative abundance of Fournierella, Psychrobacter and Ruminiclostridium on d 21, and Alistipes and Lactobacillus on d 42, which were positively related with gut development and maturation related indexes (P < 0.05).

Collectively, YCWP promoted yet antibiotic BMD delayed intestinal morphological and immunological development linked with modulating gut microbiome in chickens.

The pioneers of next-generation sequencing technology and bioinformatic analyses initiated a new era in microbiology research by offering profound insights into bacterial microbiome communities. In the pig farming sector, while considerable attention has been devoted to the gut microbiome and the microbiome of the female reproductive tract, research on the microbiome of boar semen remains limited. Nonetheless, published studies have provided valuable insights, serving as important references and sparking ideas for further investigations into the seminal microbiome. Factors such as breed, seasons, feed additives, hygiene management, and antibiotic use are believed to exert a notable influence on the diversity and richness of bacterial genera in the boar seminal microbiome, potentially affecting semen quality. Moreover, current shifts towards sustainability in the swine industry, coupled with global guidelines concerning the prudent use of antibiotics in stored boar semen for artificial insemination, underscore the need for insights into factors influencing seminal bacteria. The objective of this review is to elucidate the current understanding of boar bacterial contents using conventional culture methods, as well as the boar seminal microbiome through metagenomics and bioinformatics. It also aims to review specific microbiome communities, such as those in the reproductive tract and gut, and their connections to semen quality. In addition, strategic enhancements for processing boar semen doses through alternative methods to improve seminal quality are proposed.

A single novel bacterial strain designated as H23M31T was isolated from the faecal sample of oriental stork (Ciconia boyciana) that inhabits the Republic of Korea. It was a rod-shaped, facultative anaerobic, Gram-negative, and non-motile strain. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that it branched from Aequorivita within Flavobacteriaceae. It was most closely related to A. capsosiphonis DSM 23843 T, which shared the sequence similarity of 96.36%. The strain exhibited optimal growth at pH 7.0 in a marine broth medium with 1% NaCl incubated at 30 °C. Chemotaxonomic characteristics indicated that the predominant cellular fatty acids were iso-C15:0 (24.4%), iso-C17:0 3-OH (15.9%), and anteiso-C15:0 (13.9%). The polar lipid of the strain contained phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), and diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG). The major isoprenoid quinone was menaquinone 6 (MK-6), which was identical with that of a closely related Aequorivita species. The genomic G + C contents of the strain was 38.25 mol%. Average nucleotide identity (ANI), average amino acid identity (AAI), and digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values between the novel isolate and A. viscosa CGMCC 1.11023 T were 75.83%, 80.34% and 20.50%, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses revealed the evolutionary relationships of the strain, demonstrating that the strain clusters with other Aequorivita species. Pan-genome analyses and genome comparisons indicated that, unlike other environmentally isolated species, it possesses unique genes that enhance its ability to colonise the harsh animal gut environment. Taxonomic characterisation suggested that strain H23M31T represents a novel Aequorivita species, and the proposed name is Aequorivita ciconiae sp. nov. The type strain of A. ciconiae is H23M31T (= KCTC 62809 T = JCM 33229 T).

Although global life expectancy has increased over the past 20 years due to advancements in managing infectious diseases, one-fifth of people still die from infections. In response to this ongoing threat, significant efforts are underway to develop vaccines and antimicrobial agents. However, pathogens evolve resistance mechanisms, complicating their control. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the limitations of focusing solely on the pathogen-killing strategies of immunology and microbiology to address complex, multisystemic infectious diseases. This highlights the urgent need for practical advancements, such as microbiome therapeutics, that address these limitations while complementing traditional approaches. Our review emphasizes key outcomes in the field, including evidence of probiotics reducing disease severity and insights into host-microbiome crosstalk that have informed novel therapeutic strategies. These findings underscore the potential of microbiome-based interventions to promote physiological function alongside existing strategies aimed at enhancing host immune responses and pathogen destruction. This narrative review explores microbiome therapeutics as next-generation treatments for infectious diseases, focusing on the application of probiotics and their role in host-microbiome interactions. While offering a novel perspective grounded in a cooperative defense system, this review also addresses the practical challenges and limitations in translating these advancements into clinical settings.

Advancements in vaccine technology are increasingly focused on leveraging the unique properties of both pathogenic and commensal bacteria. This revolutionary approach harnesses the diverse immune modulatory mechanisms and bacterial biology inherent in different bacterial species enhancing vaccine efficacy and safety. Pathogenic bacteria, known for their ability to induce robust immune responses, are being studied for their potential to be engineered into safe, attenuated vectors that can target specific diseases with high precision. Concurrently, commensal bacteria, which coexist harmlessly with their hosts and contribute to immune system regulation, are also being explored as novel delivery systems and in microbiome-based therapy. These bacteria can modulate immune responses, offering a promising avenue for developing effective and personalized vaccines. Integrating the distinctive characteristics of pathogenic and commensal bacteria with advanced bacterial engineering techniques paves the way for innovative vaccine and therapeutic platforms that could address a wide range of infectious diseases and potentially non-infectious conditions. This holistic approach signifies a paradigm shift in vaccine development and immunotherapy, emphasizing the intricate interplay between the bacteria and the immune systems to achieve optimal immunological outcomes.

There is a huge quantity of microorganisms in the gut of fish, which exert pivotal roles in maintaining host intestinal and general health. The fish immunity can sense and shape the intestinal microbiota and maintain the intestinal homeostasis. In the meantime, the intestinal commensal microbes regulate the fish immunity, control the extravagant proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms, and ensure the intestinal health of the host. This review summarizes developments and progress on the known interactions between host immunity and intestinal microorganisms in fish, focusing on the recent advances in zebrafish (Danio rerio) showing the host immunity senses and shapes intestinal microbiota, and intestinal microorganisms tune host immunity. This review will offer theoretical references for the development, application, and commercialization of intestinal functional microorganisms in fish. KEY POINTS: • The interactions between the intestinal microorganisms and host immunity in zebrafish • Fish immunity senses and shapes the microbiota • Intestinal microbes tune host immunity in fish.

Epidemiological studies and animal models have suggested a possible link between gut microbiota (GM), circulating metabolites, and endometriosis (EMs) pathogenesis. However, whether these associations are causal or merely due to confounding factors remains unclear. We conducted a two-sample and two-step Mendelian randomization (MR) study to elucidate the potential causal relationship between GM and EMs, and the mediating role of circulating metabolites. Our MR analysis revealed that higher abundances of class Negativicutes, and order Selenomonadales, as well as genera Dialister, Enterorhabdus, Eubacterium xylanophilum group, Methanobrevibacter were associated with an increased risk of EMs (Odds Ratio (OR) range: 1.0019-1.0037). Conversely, higher abundances of genera Coprococcus 1 and Senegalimassilia were linked to reduced risk of EMs (OR range: 0.9964-0.9967). Additionally, elevated levels of circulating metabolites such as 1-eicosatrienoyl-glycerophosphocholine and 1-oleoylglycerophosphocholine were found to be associated with heightened risk of EMs (OR range: 2.21-3.16), while higher concentrations of 3-phenylpropionate and dihomo-linolenate were protective (OR range: 0.285-0.535). Two-step MR analysis indicated that specific microbial taxa, notably genus Enterorhabdus and order Selenomonadales, might function as mediators linking circulating metabolites to the risk of EMs. Our findings suggest a probable causal relationship between GM, circulating metabolites, and EMs, indicating that GM may mediate the influence of circulating metabolites on the pathophysiology of EMs. These results offer new leads for future mechanistic studies and could inform clinical translational research.

Observational studies and animal experiments had suggested a potential relationship between gut microbiota abundance and pathogenesis of endometriosis (EMs), but the relevance of this relationship remains to be clarified.

We perform a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore whether there is a causal correlation between the abundance of the gut microbiota and EMs and the direction of causality. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) data ukb-d-N80, finn-b-N14-EM, and MiBinGen were selected. Inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, and MR Egger are selected for causal inference. The Cochran Q test, Egger intercept test, and leave-one-out analysis are performed for sensitivity analyses.

In the primary outcome, we find that a higher abundance of class Negativicutes, genus Dialister, genus Enterorhabdus, genus Eubacterium xylanophilum group, genus Methanobrevibacter and order Selenomonadales predict a higher risk of EMs, and a higher abundance of genus Coprococcus and genus Senegalimassilia predict a lower risk of EMs. During verifiable outcomes, we find that a higher abundance of phylum Cyanobacteria, genus Ruminococcaceae UCG002, and genus Coprococcus 3 predict a higher risk of EMs, and a higher abundance of genus Flavonifracto, genus Bifidobacterium, and genus Rikenellaceae RC9 predict a lower risk of EMs. In primary reverse MR analysis, we find that EMs predict a lower abundance of the genus Eubacterium fissicatena group, genus Prevotella7, genus Butyricicoccus, family Lactobacillaceae, and a higher abundance of genus Ruminococcaceae UCG009. In verifiable reverse MR analysis, we find that EMs predict a lower abundance of the genus Ruminococcaceae UCG004 and a higher abundance of the genus Howardella.

Our study implies a mutual causality between gut microbiota abundance and the pathogenesis of EMs, which may provide a novel direction for EMs diagnosis, prevention, and treatment, may promote future functional or clinical analysis.

This study aimed to explore the impact of Brassica rapa L. polysaccharides (BRP) on the growth, immune response, antioxidant capacity, and cecal microbiota in yellow-feathered quails. A total of 250 one-day-old yellow-feathered quails, evenly divided by sex, were randomly assigned to five groups, with each group comprising ten replicates of five quails each. The control group (CON) received a basic diet, while the antibiotic control group (CTC) was fed a basic diet supplemented with chlortetracycline (0.05 g/kg). BRP was administered at concentrations of 0.25 g/kg (Low dose BRP, LBRP), 0.5 g/kg (Medium dose BRP, MBRP), and 1 g/kg (High dose BRP, HBRP). The duration of the experiment was 42 days. The results indicated that, compared to the CON group, the final body weight of quails in the MBRP group significantly increased (P < 0.05), and there was a significant difference in body weight between the LBRP group and the CTC group (P < 0.05). At 21 days of age, the average weights of the thymus and bursa of Fabricius in the MBRP group were significantly greater than those in the CON group (P < 0.05), with no significant difference observed when compared to the CTC group (P > 0.05); at 42 days of age, the average weight of the thymus in the MBRP group was significantly greater than that in the CON group (P < 0.05), with no significant difference observed compared to the CTC group (P > 0.05). At 21 days of age, the levels of IgA and IgG in the MBRP group were significantly elevated compared to the CON group (P < 0.05), with no significant difference noted compared to the CTC group (P > 0.05). Additionally, the MBRP group showed significant increases in CAT, T-SOD, and GSH-Px levels (P < 0.05) compared to the CON group; the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α were significantly reduced (P < 0.05), and the level of IL-10 was significantly elevated (P < 0.05) compared to the CON group. Furthermore, 16 S rRNA sequencing revealed that BRP supplementation increased the populations of beneficial cecal bacteria such as Lactococcus, Weissella, Parabacteroides, and norank_f_Ruminococcaceae, and decreased the population of the harmful bacterium Campylobacter, indicating that BRP modulates the microbial community structure in the cecum of yellow-feathered quails. In summary, BRP enhanced the growth performance, serum immunoglobulin levels, antioxidant functions, and improved the intestinal microbiota in yellow-feathered quails.

The relationship between gut microbiota and glaucoma has garnered significant interest, with emerging evidence suggesting that gut dysbiosis, inflammation, and immune mechanisms may contribute to glaucoma pathogenesis. Understanding these interactions through the gut-retina axis offers new insights into disease progression and potential therapeutic options. This study combines bibliometric analysis and literature review to evaluate research trends and key research areas related to gut microbiota's role in glaucoma. Our data were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) and included the English original articles and reviews published between 1 January 2008, and 6 August 2024. Visual and statistical analyses were conducted using VOSviewer and CiteSpace. The analyses comprised 810 citations from leading journals, representing contributions from 23 countries/regions, 111 institutions, 40 journals, and 321 authors. Among the countries and regions involved, the USA and China were the leading contributors, publishing the most articles and being major research hubs. The Experimental Eye Research and Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science were the top journals in citation and co-citations that produced high-quality publications. The top 10 highly cited articles were published in high-ranking, top-quartile journals. The frequently occurring keywords were "glaucoma", "microbiota", "gut microbiota", "inflammation", "gut-retina axis", and "probiotics". Our study highlights the growing interest in the association between gut microbiota and glaucoma. It summarizes the possible ways gut microbiota dysbiosis, systemic and neuroinflammation, and autoimmune mechanisms contribute to glaucomatous pathogenesis. Future research should focus on mechanistic studies to elucidate the pathways linking gut microbiota to glaucoma development and progression.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has long been framed as an epidemiological and public health concern. Its impacts on the environment are unclear. Yet, the basis for AMR is altered cell physiology. Just as this affects how microbes interact with antimicrobials, it can also affect how they interact with their own species, other species, and their non-living environment. Moreover, if the microbes are globally notorious for causing landscape-level environmental issues, then these effects could alter biodiversity and ecosystem function on a grand scale. To investigate these possibilities, we compiled peer-reviewed literature from the past 20 years regarding AMR in toxic freshwater cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (HABs). We examined it for evidence of AMR affecting HAB frequency, severity, or persistence. Although no study within our scope was explicitly designed to address the question, multiple studies reported AMR-associated changes in HAB-forming cyanobacteria (and co-occurring microbes) that pertained directly to HAB timing, toxicity, and phase, as well as to the dynamics of HAB-afflicted aquatic food webs. These findings highlight the potential for AMR to have far-reaching environmental impacts (including the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem function) and bring into focus the importance of confronting complex interrelated issues such as AMR and HABs in concert, with interdisciplinary tools and perspectives.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is a complex disorder with an unknown cause. However, the dysbiosis of the gut microbiome has been found to play a role in IBD etiology, including exacerbated immune responses and defective intestinal barrier integrity. The gut microbiome can also be a potential biomarker for several diseases, including IBD. Currently, conventional treatments targeting pro-inflammatory cytokines and pathways in IBD-associated dysbiosis do not yield effective results. Other therapies that directly target the dysbiotic microbiome for effective outcomes are emerging. We review the role of the gut microbiome in health and IBD and its potential as a diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic target for IBD. This review also explores emerging therapeutic advancements that target gut microbiome-associated alterations in IBD, such as nanoparticle or encapsulation delivery, fecal microbiota transplantation, nutritional therapies, microbiome/probiotic engineering, phage therapy, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), gut proteins, and herbal formulas.

Endotoxic shock, particularly prevalent in intensive care units, represents a significant medical challenge. Endotoxin, upon invading the host, triggers intricate interactions with the innate immune system, particularly macrophages. This activation leads to the production of inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1-beta, as well as aberrant activation of the nuclear factor-kappa-B and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways.

This review delves into the intricate inflammatory cascades underpinning endotoxic shock, with a particular focus on the pivotal role of macrophages. It aims to elucidate the clinical implications of these processes and offer insights into potential therapeutic strategies.

Macrophages, central to immune regulation, manifest in two distinct subsets: M1 (classically activated subtype) macrophages and M2 (alternatively activated subtype) macrophages. The former exhibit an inflammatory phenotype, while the latter adopt an anti-inflammatory role. By modulating the inflammatory response in patients with endotoxic shock, these macrophages play a crucial role in restoring immune balance and facilitating recovery.

Macrophages undergo dynamic changes within the immune system, orchestrating essential processes for maintaining tissue homeostasis. A deeper comprehension of the mechanisms governing macrophage-mediated inflammation lays the groundwork for an anti-inflammatory, targeted approach to treating endotoxic shock. This understanding can significantly contribute to the development of more effective therapeutic interventions.

Variation in body weight (BW) within broiler flocks is a significant challenge in poultry production. Investigating differences in gut-related parameters between low (LBW) and high BW (HBW) chicks may provide insights into the underlying causes of BW heterogeneity. 908 day-old male broiler chicks were reared until d 7 and then ranked into LBW and HBW groups. Thereafter, performance parameters were compared between BW groups periodically. On d 7, 14, and 38, visceral organ characteristics, intestinal permeability, and duodenal and ileal histomorphology were examined. Expression profiles were analyzed for 79 ileal genes related to gut barrier function, immune function, nutrient transport, gut hormones, nutrient receptors, metabolism, and oxidation using high-throughput qPCR. Student's t-tests were performed to compare measurements. Multivariate statistics, including partial least square regression (PLSR) analysis, were applied to identify combinations of key genes discriminating BW groups, offering predictive capability for phenotypic variations. The HBW group remained heavier at each timepoint, which could be explained by higher feed intake. The HBW group had shorter relative small intestine length but higher villus height and villi height/crypt depth ratios. The LBW group demonstrated increased intestinal permeability on d 38. The LBW group showed upregulation of immune response genes including TNF-α on d 7 and CYP450 on d 38, while the HBW group showed higher AHSA1 and HSPA4 expressions on d 7. The LBW group had upregulation of the metabolism genes mTOR and EIF4EBP1 on d 7 and the satiety-induced hormone cholecystokinin on d 14, while the HBW group tended to increase expression of the hunger hormone ghrelin on d 38. Genes related to gut barrier function, nutrient transport, and oxidation categories were consistently upregulated in the HBW group. PLSR models revealed 4, 12, and 11 sets of key genes highly predictive of BW phenotypes on d 7, 14, and 38, respectively. These findings suggest that growth rates are linked to the intestinal size, structure, and function of broiler chickens, offering insights into the underlying mechanisms regulating BW.

Feed terrestrial components can induce intestinal stress in fish, affecting their overall health and growth. Recent studies suggest that seaweed products may improve fish intestinal health. In this experiment, three types of feed were prepared: a basic diet (C group), a diet with 0.2 % fucoidan (F group), and a diet with 3 % kelp powder (K group). These diets were fed to large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) over an 8-week period. Each feed was randomly assigned to three seawater cages (4.0 m × 4.0 m × 5.0 m) containing 700 fish per cage. The study assessed changes in growth and intestinal health, including intestinal tissue morphology, digestive enzyme activities, expression of immune-related genes, and bacterial community structure. Results showed that incorporating seaweed products into the diet improved the growth and quality traits of large yellow croakers and significantly enhanced their intestinal digestive capacity (P < 0.05). Specifically, the 0.2 % fucoidan diet significantly increased the intestinal villus length and the activities of digestive enzymes such as trypsin, lipase, and α-amylase (P < 0.05). The 3 % kelp powder diet significantly enhanced the intestinal crypt depth and the activities of trypsin and lipase (P < 0.05). Both seaweed additives significantly enhanced intestinal health by mitigating inflammatory factors. Notably, the control group's biomarkers indicated a high presence of potential pathogenic bacteria, such as Streptococcus, Pseudomonas, Enterococcus, Herbaspirillum, Neisseria, Haemophilus, and Stenotrophomonas. After the addition of seaweed additives, these bacteria were no longer the indicator bacteria, while the abundance of beneficial bacteria like Ligilactobacillus and Lactobacillus increased. Significant reductions in the expression of inflammatory factors (e.g., il-6, tnf-α, ifn-γ in the fucoidan group and il-8 in the kelp powder group) further supported these findings. Our findings suggested that both seaweed additives helped balance intestinal microbial communities and reduce bacterial antigen load. Considering the effects, costs, manufacturing, and nutrition, adding 3 % kelp powder to the feed of large yellow croaker might be preferable. This study substantiated the beneficial effects of seaweed on the aquaculture of large yellow croaker, particularly in improving intestinal health. These findings advocated for its wider and more scientifically validated use in fish farming practices.

Renal stone is a highly prevalent life-long disease with a high recurrence rate. Chronic bowel diseases, including chronic gastrointestinal symptoms (chronic constipation or chronic diarrhea), are common gastrointestinal problems. We aimed to evaluate the associations of chronic constipation and chronic diarrhea with renal stones.

This large-scale, cross-sectional study was performed within participants (≥20 years old) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2007 to 2010. Logistic regression and sensitivity analyses were conducted to clarify the association between chronic bowel diseases and renal stones.

A total of 8,067 participants aged ≥20 years were included. The prevalence of renal stones is 9.14%. Chronic diarrhea was positively related to the risk of renal stones [odds ratio (OR) =1.681, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.212 to 2.330, P=0.004] after adjusting for all covariates. In participants with body mass index (BMI) over 30 kg/m2, chronic constipation was correlated with kidney stones in fully adjusted model 2 (OR =2.142, 95% CI: 1.389 to 3.303, P=0.004).

Our findings provide evidence that chronic diarrhea is associated with an increased risk of renal stones. Chronic constipation is positively related to the risk of renal stones in participants with BMI over 30 kg/m2. Health care should focus more on bowel health status for the prevention of related diseases. More prospective cohort studies are needed.

To investigate the effect of Eimeria tenella (E. tenella) infection on the cecal microbiota, resistant and susceptible families were screened out based on the coccidiosis resistance evaluation indexes after E. tenella infection. Subsequently, a comparative analysis of cecal microorganisms among control, resistant, and susceptible groups as well as between different periods following the E. tenella challenge was conducted using metagenomic sequencing technology. The results showed that the abundance of opportunistic pathogens, such as Pantoea, Sporomusa, and Pasteurella in the susceptible group and Helicobacter and Sutterella in the resistant group, was significantly higher on day 27 post-inoculation (PI) (the recovery period) than on day 5 PI (the infection period). Additionally, the abundance of Alistipes, Butyricicoccus, and Eubacterium in the susceptible group and Coprococcus, Roseburia, Butyricicoccus, and Lactobacillus in the resistant group showed a significant upward trend during the infection period compared with that in the recovery period. On day 5 PI, the abundance of Faecalibacterium and Lactobacillus was decreased in both the resistant and susceptible groups when compared with that in the control group and was greater in the resistant group than in the susceptible group, while Alistipes in the susceptible group had a relatively higher abundance than that in other groups. A total of 49 biomarker taxa were identified using the linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effect size (LEfSe) method. Of these, the relative abundance of Lactobacillus aviarius, Lactobacillus salivarius, Roseburia, and Ruminococcus gauvreauii was increased in the resistant group, while Bacteroides_sp__AGMB03916, Fusobacterium_mortiferum, Alistipes_sp__An31A, and Alistipes_sp__Marseille_P5061 were enriched in the susceptible group. On day 27 PI, LDA scores identified 43 biomarkers, among which the relative abundance of Elusimicrobium_sp__An273 and Desulfovibrio_sp__An276 was increased in the resistant group, while that of Bacteroides_sp__43_108, Chlamydiia, Chlamydiales, and Sutterella_sp__AM11 39 was augmented in the susceptible group. Our results indicated that E. tenella infection affects the structure of the cecal microbiota during both the challenge and recovery periods. These findings will enhance the understanding of the effects of changes in the cecal microbiota on chickens after coccidia infection and provide a reference for further research on the mechanisms underlying how the intestinal microbiota influence the growth and health of chickens.

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune bleeding disorder characterized by excessive reticuloendothelial platelet destruction and inadequate compensatory platelet production. However, the pathogenesis of ITP is relatively complex, and its exact mechanisms and etiology have not been definitively established. The gut microbiome, namely a diverse community of symbiotic microorganisms residing in the gastrointestinal system, affects health through involvement in human metabolism, immune modulation, and maintaining physiological balance. Emerging evidence reveals that the gut microbiome composition differs in patients with ITP compared to healthy individuals, which is related with platelet count, disease duration, and response to treatment. These findings suggest that the microbiome and metabolome profiles of individuals could unveil a new pathway for aiding diagnosis, predicting prognosis, assessing treatment response, and formulating personalized therapeutic approaches for ITP. However, due to controversial reports, definitive conclusions cannot be drawn, and further investigations are needed.

As a physiological function of body, immunity can maintain health by identifying itself and excluding others. With economic development and increasingly fierce social competition, the number of sub-healthy population is gradually increasing, and the most basic problem exposed is human hypoimmunity. Hypoimmunity can be manifested as often feeling tired, catching colds, mental depression, etc. In order to enhance immunity, eating healthy foods with the effect of enhancing immunity may become an effective choice. KRG has pharmacological effects of enhancing immunity. Because the screening and evaluation method of immune population are not unified, there are relatively few KRG immunity tests for sub-health population. It is of great significance to study the effect of KRG on people with hypoimmunity to improve sub-health status.

This was a 180-day, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. According to the trial scheme design, 119 qualified subjects were included and randomly divided into the test group taking KRG and the placebo control group. Subjects need to check safety indicators (blood pressure and heart rate, blood routine, liver and kidney function, urine routine and stool routine) and efficacy indicators (main and secondary) inspection at baseline, efficacy indicators inspection during the mid-term of the test (90th days of administration), safety and efficacy indicators inspection after the test (180th days of administration).

After the test, the safety indicators of placebo control group and KRG test group were basically within the normal range, and there is no significant difference in fireness score between the two groups. Through follow-up interviews, it was found that the subjects in the test group and the control group had no adverse reactions and allergic reactions such as nausea, flatulence, diarrhea, and abdominal pain during the test period. Self-comparison of the test group, the results of the main efficacy indicators: (1) immune related health scores were significantly improved in the mid-term and after the test (P < 0.01), (2) CD3 and CD4/CD8 increased significantly after the test (P < 0.05), (3) IgG, IgA, IgM and WBC increased significantly in the mid-term and after the test (P < 0.01); the results of the secondary efficacy indicators: (1) TNF-α decreased significantly in the mid-term (P < 0.05), IFN-γ decreased significantly in the mid-term (P < 0.01), (2) NK increased significantly in the mid-term and after the test (P < 0.05), (3) monocyte increased significantly in the mid-term and after the test (P < 0.01). Inter-group comparison of the test group and the control group, the results of the main efficacy indicators: (1) immune related health scores were higher than that of the control group in the mid-term and after the test (P < 0.01), (2) IgA of the test group was higher than that of the control group in the mid-term and after the test (P < 0.05); the results of the secondary efficacy indicators: (1) WBC of the test group was higher than that of the control group in the mid-term (P < 0.05); (2) monocytes of the test group were higher than that of the control group in the mid-term and after the test (P < 0.05), neutrophils of the test group were higher than that of the control group in the mid-term (P < 0.05).

Taking KRG has no adverse effects on the health of the subjects. According to the standard of clinical trial scheme, the immune related health scores and IgA in the main efficacy indicators were positive, which shows that KRG is helpful in enhancing human immunity.

Oxidative stress (OS) is a major concern that impacts the overall health of chickens in modern production systems. It is characterized by an imbalance between antioxidant defence mechanisms and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of oxidative stress in poultry production, with an emphasis on its effects on growth performance, immune responses, and reproductive outcomes. This review highlights the intricate mechanisms underlying OS and discusses how various factors, including dietary components, genetic predispositions, and environmental stressors can exacerbate the production of ROS. Additionally, the impact of oxidative stress on the production performance and physiological systems of poultry is examined. The study also emphasizes the relationship between oxidative stress and poultry diseases, highlighting how impaired antioxidant defenses increase bird's susceptibility to infections. The review assesses the existing approaches to reducing oxidative stress in chickens in response to these challenges. This includes managing techniques to lower stress in the production environment, antioxidant supplements, and nutritional interventions. The effectiveness of naturally occurring antioxidants, including plant extracts, minerals, and vitamins to improve poultry resistance to oxidative damage is also examined. To improve the antioxidant defenses of poultry under stress conditions, the activation of cellular homeostatic networks termed vitagenes, such as Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 (Nrf2) is necessary for the synthesis of protective factors that can counteract the increased production of ROS and RNS. Future studies into novel strategies for managing oxidative stress in chicken production would build on these research advances and the knowledge gaps identified in this review.

This study aimed to investigate whether class A1 scavenger receptor (SR-A1) regulated macrophage polarization and gut microbial alteration during intestinal inflammation of colitis. A murine colitis model was established by feeding with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), and treatment groups were injected intravenously with SR-A1 antibody. Results showed a preventive effect on colitis symptoms and fewer inflammatory cell infiltrates in treatment groups. Down-regulation of inflammatory cytokines and up-regulation of anti-inflammatory cytokine related to macrophages were seen in murine PBMC and LPMC after injected with SR-A1 antibody. The percentage of M2 macrophages was also elevated in treatment groups. In addition, SR-A1 antibody treatment resulted in the decreased apoptosis and increased proliferation of colonic epithelial cells. Other findings indicated that SR-A1 antibody injection could mediate its anti-inflammatory effect via inhibiting TLR4-MyD88-NF-kB signaling pathway and alterating the gut microbiota composition. Our research identified SR-A1 as a potential therapeutic target in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

The gut microbiota is a complex and diverse community of microorganisms that colonizes the human gastrointestinal tract and influences various aspects of human health. These microbes are closely related to enteric infections. As a foreign entity for the host, commensal microbiota is restricted and regulated by the barrier and immune system in the gut and contributes to gut homeostasis. Commensals also effectively resist the colonization of pathogens and the overgrowth of indigenous pathobionts by utilizing a variety of mechanisms, while pathogens have developed strategies to subvert colonization resistance. Dysbiosis of the microbial community can lead to enteric infections. The microbiota acts as a pivotal mediator in establishing a harmonious mutualistic symbiosis with the host and shielding the host against pathogens. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms underlying host-microbiome and microbiome-pathogen interactions, highlighting the multi-faceted roles of the gut microbiota in preventing enteric infections. We also discuss the applications of manipulating the microbiota to treat infectious diseases in the gut.

The gut microbiota is a system of microorganisms in the human gastrointestinal (GI) system, consisting of trillions of microorganisms residing in epithelial surfaces of the body. Gut microbiota are exposed to various external and internal factors and form a unique gut-associated immunity maintained through a balancing act among diverse groups of microorganisms. The role of microbiota in dysbiosis of the gut in aiding prostate cancer development has created an urgency for extending research toward comprehension and preventative measures. The gut microbiota varies among persons based on diet, race, genetic background, and geographic location. Bacteriome, mainly, has been linked to GI complications, metabolism, weight gain, and high blood sugar. Studies have shown that manipulating the microbiome (bacteriome, virome, and mycobiome) through the dietary intake of phytochemicals positively influences physical and emotional health, preventing and delaying diseases caused by microbiota. In this review, we discuss the wealth of knowledge about the GI tract and factors associated with dysbiosis-mediated compromised gut immunity. This review also focuses on the relationship of dysbiosis to prostate cancer, the impact of microbial metabolites short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) on host health, and the phytochemicals improving health while inhibiting prostate cancer.

Understanding the relationship between resident microbiota and disease in cultured fish represents an important and emerging area of study. Marine gill disorders in particular are considered an important challenge to Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) aquaculture, however relatively little is known regarding the role resident gill microbiota might play in providing protection from or potentiating different gill diseases. Here, 16S rRNA sequencing was used to examine the gill microbiome alongside fish health screening in farmed Atlantic salmon. Results were used to explore the relationship between microbial communities and gill disease.

Microbial community restructuring was observed throughout the sampling period and linked to varied drivers of change, including environmental conditions and severity of gill pathology. Taxa with significantly greater relative abundance on healthier gills included isolates within genus Shewanella, and taxa within family Procabacteriaceae. In contrast, altered abundance of Candidatus Branchiomonas and Rubritalea spp. were associated with damaged gills. Interestingly, more general changes in community richness and diversity were not associated with altered gill health, and thus not apparently deleterious to fish. Gross and histological gill scoring demonstrated seasonal shifts in gill pathology, with increased severity of gill damage in autumn. Specific infectious causes that contributed to observed pathology within the population included the gill disorder amoebic gill disease (AGD), however due to the uncontrolled nature of this study and likely mixed contribution of various causes of gill disease to observed pathology results do not strongly support an association between the microbial community and specific infectious or non-infectious drivers of gill pathology.

Results suggest that the microbial community of farmed Atlantic salmon gills undergo continual restructuring in the marine environment, with mixed influences upon this change including environmental, host, and pathogenic factors. A significant association of specific taxa with different gill health states suggests these taxa might make meaningful indicators of gill health. Further research with more frequent sampling and deliberate manipulation of gills would provide important advancement of knowledge in this area. Overall, although much is still to be learnt regarding what constitutes a healthy or maladapted gill microbial community, the results of this study provide clear advancement of the field, providing new insight into the microbial community structure of gills during an annual production cycle of marine-stage farmed Atlantic salmon.

Our previous research found that fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and inulin synergistically affected the intestinal barrier and immune system function in chicks. However, does it promote the early immunity of the poultry gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT)? How does it regulate the immunity? We evaluated immune-related indicators in the serum, cecal tonsil, and intestine to determine whether FMT synergistic inulin had a stronger impact on gut health and which gene expression regulation was affected. The results showed that FMT synergistic inulin increased TGF-β secretion and intestinal goblet cell number and MUC2 expression on day 14. Expression of BAFFR, PAX5, CXCL12, and IL-2 on day 7 and expression of CXCR4 and IL-2 on day 14 in the cecal tonsils significantly increased. The transcriptome indicated that CD28 and CTLA4 were important regulatory factors in intestinal immunity. Correlation analysis showed that differential genes were related to the immunity and development of the gut and cecal tonsil. FMT synergistic inulin promoted the development of GALT, which improved the early-stage immunity of the intestine by regulating CD28 and CTLA4. This provided new measures for replacing antibiotic use and reducing the use of therapeutic drugs while laying a technical foundation for achieving anti-antibiotic production of poultry products.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common infectious disease caused by enterovirus 71 (EV71) that frequently affects children, leading to severe infections in some cases. In general, when infection occurs, the body upregulates inflammatory responses to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms to protect the host from infection. However, EV71 may inhibit host's innate immunity to promote virus infection. At present, it is not fully understood how EV71 hijack the host cells for its own replication. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), a natural immune receptor, historically associated with bacterial endotoxin-induced inflammatory responses. However, it is still unclear whether and how TLR4 is altered during EV71 infection. In this study, we observed a reduction in both TLR4 protein and gene transcript levels in RD, GES-1, and Vero cells following EV71 infection, as detected by RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence staining and western blot. Furthermore, we observed that the TLR4 downstream molecules of MYD88, p-NF-κB p65, p-TBK1 and related inflammatory cytokines were also reduced, suggesting that antiviral innate immune and inflammatory response were suppressed. To determine the impact of TLR4 changes on EV71 infection, we interfered EV71-infected RD cells with TLR4 agonist or inhibitor and the results showed that activation of TLR4 inhibited EV71 replication, while inhibition of TLR4 promote EV71 replication. Besides, EV71 replication was also promoted in TLR4 siRNA-transfected and EV71-infected RD cells. This suggests that down-regulation the expression of TLR4 by EV71 can inhibit host immune defense to promote EV71 self-replication. This novel mechanism may be a strategy for EV71 to evade host immunity.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing β cells. Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) plays a role in autoimmune diseases, and B cell-specific TLR9 deficiency delays T1D development. Gut microbiota are implicated in T1D, although the relationship is complex. However, the impact of B cell-specific deficiency of TLR9 on intestinal microbiota and the impact of altered intestinal microbiota on the development of T1D are unclear.

This study investigated how gut microbiota and the intestinal barrier contribute to T1D development in B cell-specific TLR9-deficient NOD mice. Additionally, this study explored the role of microbiota in immune regulation and T1D onset.

The study assessed gut permeability, gene expression related to gut barrier integrity, and gut microbiota composition. Antibiotics depleted gut microbiota, and fecal samples were transferred to germ-free mice. The study also examined IL-10 production, Breg cell differentiation, and their impact on T1D development.

B cell-specific TLR9-deficient NOD mice exhibited increased gut permeability and downregulated gut barrier-related gene expression. Antibiotics restored gut permeability, suggesting microbiota influence. Altered microbiota were enriched in Lachnospiraceae, known for mucin degradation. Transferring this microbiota to germ-free mice increased gut permeability and promoted IL-10-expressing Breg cells. Rag-/- mice transplanted with fecal samples from Tlr9 fl/fl Cd19-Cre+ mice showed delayed diabetes onset, indicating microbiota's impact.

B cell-specific TLR9 deficiency alters gut microbiota, increasing gut permeability and promoting IL-10-expressing Breg cells, which delay T1D. This study uncovers a link between TLR9, gut microbiota, and immune regulation in T1D, with implications for microbiota-targeted T1D therapies.