Osteoporosis is an age-related bone metabolic disease. As an essential endocrine organ, the skeletal system is intricately connected with extraosseous organs. The crosstalk between bones and other organs supports this view. In recent years, the link between the gut microecology and bone metabolism has become an important research topic, both in preclinical studies and in clinical trials. Many studies have shown that skeletal changes are accompanied by changes in the composition and structure of the gut microbiota (GM). At the same time, natural or artificial interventions targeting the GM can subsequently affect bone metabolism. Moreover, microbiome-related metabolites may have important effects on bone metabolism. We aim to review the relationships among the GM, microbial metabolites, and bone metabolism and to summarize the potential mechanisms involved and the theory of the gut‒bone axis. We also describe existing bottlenecks in laboratory studies, as well as existing challenges in clinical settings, and propose possible future research directions.

The human gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in health and disease, notably through its interaction with bile acids (BAs). BAs, synthesized in the liver, undergo transformation by the gut microbiota upon excretion into the intestine, thus influencing host metabolism. However, the potential mechanisms of dicaffeoylquinic acids (DiCQAs) from Ilex kudingcha how to modulate lipid metabolism and inflammation via gut microbiota remain unclear.

The objectives of the present study were to investigate the regulating effects of DiCQAs on diabetes and the potential mechanisms of action. Two mice models were utilized to investigate the anti-diabetic effects of DiCQAs. Additionally, analysis of gut microbiota structure and functions was conducted concurrently with the examination of DiCQAs' impact on gut microbiota carrying the bile salt hydrolase (BSH) gene, as well as on the enterohepatic circulation of BAs and related signaling pathways.

Our findings demonstrated that DiCQAs alleviated diabetic symptoms by modulating gut microbiota carrying the BSH gene. This modulation enhanced intestinal barrier integrity, increased enterohepatic circulation of conjugated BAs, and inhibited the farnesoid X receptor-fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF15) signaling axis in the ileum. Consequently, the protein expression of hepatic FGFR4 fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) decreased, accompanied by heightened BA synthesis, reduced hepatic BA stasis, and lowered levels of hepatic and plasma cholesterol. Furthermore, DiCQAs upregulated glucolipid metabolism-related proteins in the liver and muscle, including v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog (AKT)/glycogen synthase kinase 3-beta (GSK3β) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), thereby ameliorating hyperglycemia and mitigating inflammation through the down-regulation of the MAPK signaling pathway in the diabetic group.

Our study elucidated the anti-diabetic effects and mechanism of DiCQAs from I. kudingcha, highlighting the potential of targeting gut microbiota, particularly Acetatifactor sp011959105 and Acetatifactor muris carrying the BSH gene, as a therapeutic strategy to attenuate FXR-FGF15 signaling and ameliorate diabetes.

Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) is a multisystemic autoimmune disorder characterized by bilateral panuveitis frequently accompanied by neurologic manifestations. While metabolic dysregulation is increasingly recognized in the context of autoimmune diseases, the role of specific metabolites in VKH disease remains unexplored.

Non-targeted and targeted metabolomics analysis, phospho-antibody array, proteome microarray, surface plasmon resonance, and molecular simulation were used to identify molecular target of OA.

We investigated metabolic profile of VKH disease and found that oleic acid (OA) was enriched in this disease. A series of functional assays showed that OA could exacerbate experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) in association with increased frequency of Th1 and Th17 cells and decreased proportion of Treg cells in vitro. However, the specific molecular target of OA remains elusive. Through proteome microarrays, molecular simulations and surface plasmon resonance assays, Ornithine decarboxylase 1 (ODC1) was identified as target protein of OA. OA could bind to ODC1, increase ODC1 protein expression in both a time- and concentration-dependent manner and promote subsequently putrescine production. Phospho-antibody array analysis revealed that OA inhibited phosphorylation of STAT5A (Y694) in CD4+T cells, leading to imbalance of Th1/Th17 and Treg cells and decreased transcription of IL-10. OA upregulated ODC1 protein and putrescine levels through binding to LYS-78, inhibited phosphorylation of STAT5A protein and subsequently decreased binding of STAT5A at IL-10 promoter.

These results reveals that OA could be a crucial metabolite for modulation of CD4+T cell differentiation and that ODC1-mediated phosphorylation and transcriptional activity of STAT5A contributes to development of VKH disease progression, highlighting ODC1 as a novel therapeutic target in VKH disease.

The aim of this study is to investigate the dynamic changes of plasma bile acids (BA) and their correlations with physiological parameters and fecal microbiome in transitional dairy cows.

Twenty multiparous dairy cows were selected, the blood and fecal samples were collected on d -21, -7, +7, and +21 of calving. The targeted metabolome and 16s rDNA ampicon sequencing were utilized to identify BA profiles and fecal microbial composition, respectively.

A total of 32 BAs were found, comprising 9 primary BAs (PBA) and 23 secondary BAs (SBA). Majority of the PBAs (7 out to 9) and SBAs (15 out to 23) exhibited significant increases postpartum compared to prepartum levels. Notably, ursodeoxycholic acid, taurocholic acid and 7-ketodeoxycholic acid showed higher importance. Correlation analysis showed the BAs concentrations positively correlated with the concentrations of aspartate aminotransferase, total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione peroxidase, while exhibiting substantial negative correlation with triglyceride concentrations. A decline in bacterial alpha diversity in postpartum and significantly different β-diversity were observed. Furthermore, 30 distingtive genera were identified over the transition period. Among these, six and eleven biomarkers such as Alistipes and Ruminococcaceae_UCG_014 were identified at +7 d and +21 d, respectively. Furthermore, the abundances of choloylglycine hydrolase and 7-alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase which are involved in SBA biosynthesis were significantly higher postpartum as determined by PICRUSt2 analysis over the transition period.

The BA profile and concentrations underwent significant changes during the transition period in dairy cows and these changes are closely related to the periparturient health of the cows. Ursodeoxycholic acid and Alistipes was identified as the pivotal BA and microbial genus. Our study elucidates these metabolic processes, providing useful insights into strategies for enhancing the nutrition and well-being of perinatal dairy cows.

Bile acids, derived from cholesterol in the liver, consist a steroidal core. Primary bile acids and secondary bile acids metabolized by the gut microbiota make up the bile acid pool, which modulate nuclear hormone receptors to regulate immunity. Disruptions in the crosstalk between bile acids and the gut flora are intimately associated with the development and course of gastrointestinal inflammation.

This review provides an extensive summary of bile acid production, transport and metabolism. It also delves into the impact of bile acid metabolism on the body and explores the involvement of bile acid-microbiota interactions in various disease states. Furthermore, the potential of targeting bile acid signaling as a means to prevent and treat inflammatory bowel disease is proposed.

In this review, we primarily address the functions of bile acid-microbiota crosstalk in diseases. Firstly, we summarize bile acid signalling and the factors influencing bile acid metabolism, with highlighting the immune function of microbially conjugated bile acids and the unique roles of different receptors. Subsequently, we emphasize the vital role of bile acids in maintaining a healthy gut microbiota and regulating the intestinal barrier function, energy metabolism and immunity. Finally, we explore differences of bile acid metabolism in different disease states, offering new perspectives on restoring the host's health and the gastrointestinal ecosystem by targeting the gut microbiota-bile acid-bile acid receptor axis.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by degeneration and necrosis of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and decreased dopamine secretion in the striatum. Bile acids are important components of animal bile. In recent years, a variety of hydrophilic bile acids have been reported to have ameliorative effects in neurodegenerative diseases. Taurochenodeoxycholic acid (TCDCA) is one of the components of bile acids. However, whether TCDCA can treat PD and its specific mechanism is unclear. In this study, 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridine (MPTP)-induced PD model mice were established to investigate the effects of TCDCA on PD model mice and the impact of microglia-mediated neuroinflammation. Concurrently, in vitro cell experiments utilized the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV-2 microglial inflammation model to further investigate the effect and mechanism of TCDCA in inhibiting neuroinflammation. TCDCA effectively improved dyskinesia, attenuated dopaminergic neuronal damage in the substantia nigra and striatum, and inhibited α-Synuclein (α-Syn) expression in the substantia nigra of PD mice. TCDCA significantly inhibited microglia and astrocyte activation in the substantia nigra of PD mice, and decreased the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein expressions of inflammatory factors. In addition, TCDCA was found to inhibit nitric oxide release and reactive oxygen species production in LPS-stimulated BV2 microglia. Furthermore, TCDCA suppressed the production of inflammatory factors, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), both in vivo and in vitro. Meanwhile, TCDCA significantly promoted Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5) protein expression and inhibited the phosphorylation of serine/threonine kinase B (AKT), nuclear factor κB (NFκB) and inhibitor of NFκB (IκBα). TCDCA promoted autophagy in vivo and in vitro by increasing adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation, inhibiting mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) phosphorylation, increasing LC3II/LC3I and Beclin1 expression, and decreasing P62 expression. Furthermore, TCDCA demonstrated mitochondrial protection by enhancing the expression of PTEN induced putative kinase 1 (Pink1) and Parkin. However, knockdown of TGR5 expression partially counteracted the inhibitory effect of TCDCA on LPS-treated BV-2 cells. Our results manifested that TCDCA activated autophagy and inhibited microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in experimental PD models probably through regulation of AKT/NFκB, AMPK/mTOR and Pink1/Parkin signaling pathways via activation of TGR5.

Schistosomiasis japonica is a parasitic disease that seriously endangers human health. Patients with advanced Schistosoma japonicum infection often suffer from cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Splenectomy has been widely used in the treatment of these patients. Previous studies have confirmed that S. japonicum infection is closely related to the gut microbiota, but the impact of splenectomy on the gut microbiota of patients with advanced S. japonicum infection remains unclear. This study used 16sRNA sequencing technology to compare the differences in intestinal flora between patients with advanced S. japonicum infection who underwent splenectomy and non-surgical patients. We focused on the changes in the species composition, diversity and functions of the intestinal flora. Our study shows that dysbiosis of the gut microbiome occurred in patients with advanced S. japonicum infection, including changes in abundance and diversity and the disorder of biological function. The intestinal flora structure, diversity and function of patients who underwent splenectomy were significantly changed compared with those who did not undergo surgery.

Bile acids and their corresponding intestinal epithelial receptors, the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), the G protein-coupled bile acid receptor (TGR5), play crucial roles in the physiological and pathological processes of intestinal epithelial cells. These acids and receptors are involved in the regulation of intestinal absorption, signal transduction, cellular proliferation and repair, cellular senescence, energy metabolism, and the modulation of gut microbiota. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, employing keywords such as bile acid, bile acid receptor, FXR (nr1h4), TGR5 (gpbar1), intestinal epithelial cells, proliferation, differentiation, senescence, energy metabolism, gut microbiota, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer (CRC), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with a focus on publications available in English. This review examines the diverse effects of bile acid signaling and bile receptor pathways on the proliferation, differentiation, senescence, and energy metabolism of intestinal epithelial cells. Additionally, it explores the interactions between bile acids, their receptors, and the microbiota, as well as the implications of these interactions for host health, particularly in relation to prevalent intestinal diseases. Finally, the review highlights the importance of developing highly specific ligands for FXR and TGR5 receptors in the context of metabolic and intestinal disorders.

Mounting evidence shows that gut microbiota communities and the human immune system coexist and influence each other, and there are a number of reports of a correlation between specific changes in gut microbiota and the occurrence of autoimmune diseases. B lymphocytes play a central role in the regulation of both gut microbiota communities and in autoimmune diseases. Here, we summarize evidence of the influence of gut microbiota-B cell pathways on autoimmune diseases and how B cells regulate microorganisms, which provides mechanistic insights with relevance for identification of potential therapeutic targets and related fields.

The commensal gut microbiota has a role in the pathogenesis of extra-intestinal autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) with unknown mechanisms. Deoxycholic acid (DCA) and lithocholic acid (LCA) are secondary bile acid metabolites (BAMs) produced from primary bile acids by gut microbiota that play key immune regulatory functions by promoting FOXP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cell differentiation at the expense of Th17 cells. Here, we show that bacteria releasing enzymes responsible for secondary BAMs production are under-represented in the gut of MS patients, resulting in significantly reduced intestinal concentration of DCA and immune dysregulation with increased percentage of Th17 cells. We validated our human findings in a preclinical model of MS by showing that DCA/LCA administration prevents experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) by dampening Th17 cell differentiation and the effector phenotype of myelin-reactive T cells. Our data highlight the key role of immune regulatory BAMs for the prevention of central nervous system (CNS) autoimmunity.

The current definition of a postbiotic is a "preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confers a health benefit on the host". Postbiotics can be mainly classified as metabolites, derived from intestinal bacterial fermentation, or structural components, as intrinsic constituents of the microbial cell. Secondary bile acids deoxycholic acid (DCA) and lithocholic acid (LCA) are bacterial metabolites generated by the enzymatic modifications of primary bile acids by microbial enzymes. Secondary bile acids function as receptor ligands modulating the activity of a family of bile-acid-regulated receptors (BARRs), including GPBAR1, Vitamin D (VDR) receptor and RORγT expressed by various cell types within the entire human body. Secondary bile acids integrate the definition of postbiotics, exerting potential beneficial effects on human health given their ability to regulate multiple biological processes such as glucose metabolism, energy expenditure and inflammation/immunity. Although there is evidence that bile acids might be harmful to the intestine, most of this evidence does not account for intestinal dysbiosis. This review examines this novel conceptual framework of secondary bile acids as postbiotics and how these mediators participate in maintaining host health.

Conjugated bile acids (BAs) are multi-functional detergents in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract produced by the liver enzyme bile acid-CoA:amino acid N-acyltransferase (BAAT) and by the microbiome from the acyltransferase activity of bile salt hydrolase (BSH). Humans with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have an enrichment in both host and microbially conjugated BAs (MCBAs), but their impacts on GI inflammation are not well understood. We investigated the role of host-conjugated BAs in a mouse model of colitis using a BAAT knockout background. Baat-/- KO mice have severe phenotypes in the colitis model that were rescued by supplementation with taurocholate (TCA). Gene expression and histology showed that this rescue was due to an improved epithelial barrier integrity and goblet cell function. However, metabolomics also showed that TCA supplementation resulted in extensive metabolism to secondary BAs. We therefore investigated the BSH activity of diverse gut bacteria on a panel of conjugated BAs and found broad hydrolytic capacity depending on the bacterium and the amino acid conjugate. The complexity of this microbial BA hydrolysis led to the exploration of bsh genes in metagenomic data from human IBD patients. Certain bsh sequences were enriched in people with Crohn's disease particularly that from Ruminococcus gnavus. This study shows that both host and microbially conjugated BAs may provide benefits to those with IBD, but this is dictated by a delicate balance between BA conjugation/deconjugation based on the bsh genes present.

Background/Objectives: The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in host physiology through metabolite production, with lipids serving as essential biomolecules for cellular structure, metabolism, and signaling. This review aims to elucidate the interactions between gut microbiota and lipid metabolism and their implications for enhancing swine production. Methods: We systematically analyzed current literature on microbial lipid metabolism, focusing on mechanistic studies on microbiota-lipid interactions, key regulatory pathways in microbial lipid metabolism, and multi-omics evidence (metagenomic/metabolomic) from swine models. Results: This review outlines the structural and functional roles of lipids in bacterial membranes and examines the influence of gut microbiota on the metabolism of key lipid classes, including cholesterol, bile acids, choline, sphingolipids, and fatty acids. Additionally, we explore the potential applications of microbial lipid metabolism in enhancing swine production performance. Conclusions: Our analysis establishes a scientific framework for microbiota-based strategies to optimize lipid metabolism. The findings highlight potential interventions to improve livestock productivity through targeted manipulation of gut microbial communities.

The gut microbiota-cancer interaction functions through multi-level biological mechanisms, forming the basis for both diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Current technical and biological challenges drive the field toward precision medicine approaches, aiming to integrate multi-dimensional data for optimized, personalized cancer treatments.

Recent studies found that palmitic acid (PA), the most abundant fatty acid in human body, was increased in uveitis patients. However, its exact effect on uveitis has not been clarified. In this study, experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU), an animal model of human uveitis, was successfully induced with interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein (IRBP) 651-670 and pertussis toxin. The immunized mice were treated with daily intragastric PA or vehicle from day 1-14. The results showed that PA could aggravate EAU activities and increase the proportion of T helper (Th) 17 cells as well as mRNA expression level of Il17a. There were no significant changes in Th1/Treg cell responses between these two groups. In vitro experiments showed that PA treatment could promote IRBP-specific Th17 cell response in association with increased proportion of Th17 cells as well as up-regulated expression of IL-17A. Proteomics showed an increased expression of stimulator of interferon genes protein (STING) in PA-treated mice as compared to vehicle-treated mice. H-151, a potent antagonist of STING, attenuated the activities of EAU and Th17 cell responses induced by PA. Moreover, NF-κB/IL-6 signaling pathway was found to be downregulated after H-151 treatment. Collectively, PA could exacerbate EAU severity possibly through the activation of Th17 cells mediated by up-regulating STING.

Gut microbiota is essential for maintaining host immune homeostasis and has been confirmed to be closely related to some intestinal and extraintestinal diseases. Bacteroides, as the dominant bacterial genus in the human gut, has attracted great attention due to its excellent metabolic activity, but there are few studies on Bacteroides dorei species. In our previous study, a gut commensal strain, Bacteroides dorei RX2020 (B. dorei), was isolated from healthy human feces and exhibited superior flavonoid metabolic activity, prompting further analysis of its uncharacterized genomic features, probiotic potential, safety, and immunomodulatory activity.

The results showed that B. dorei exhibited intrinsic probiotic functionalities with preserved genomic and phenotypic stability, demonstrated safety profiles in murine models through in vivo assessments, and conferred antagonistic activity against enteric foodborne pathogens via competitive exclusion. The strain also demonstrated abundant metabolic activity and was involved in the metabolism of tryptophan and bile acids (BAs). Moreover, B. dorei can promote the production of IFNβ by dendritic cells (DCs) to inhibit the replication of influenza virus in epithelial cells, which may be achieved by regulating host metabolism.

This study reveals the potential of B. dorei as next-generation probiotics (NGPs), contributing to a broader understanding and application of these novel probiotics in health and disease management.

Bile acid metabolism is altered in multiple sclerosis (MS) and tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) supplementation ameliorated disease in mouse models of MS.

Global metabolomics was performed in an observational cohort of people with MS, followed by pathway analysis to examine relationships between baseline metabolite levels and subsequent brain and retinal atrophy. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was completed in people with progressive MS (PMS), randomized to receive either TUDCA (2 g/day) or placebo for 16 weeks. Participants were followed with serial clinical and laboratory assessments. Primary outcomes were safety and tolerability of TUDCA, and exploratory outcomes included changes in clinical, laboratory, and gut microbiome parameters.

In the observational cohort, higher primary bile acid levels at baseline predicted slower whole-brain atrophy, brain substructure atrophy, and specific retinal layer atrophy. In the clinical trial, 47 participants were included in our analyses (21 in placebo arm, 26 in TUDCA arm). Adverse events did not differ significantly between arms (p = 0.77). The TUDCA arm demonstrated increased serum levels of multiple bile acids. No significant differences were noted in clinical or fluid biomarker outcomes. Central memory CD4+ and Th1/17 cells decreased, while CD4+ naive cells increased in the TUDCA arm compared to placebo. Changes in the composition and function of gut microbiota were also noted between the two groups.

Bile acid metabolism in MS is linked to brain and retinal atrophy. TUDCA supplementation in PMS is safe, tolerable, and has measurable biological effects that warrant further evaluation in larger trials with a longer treatment duration.

National MS Society grant RG-1707-28601 to P.B., R01 NS082347 from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke to P.A.C., and National MS Society grant RG-1606-08768 to S.S.

Anti-tumor immunity, including innate and adaptive immunity is critical in inhibiting tumorigenesis and development of tumor. The adaptive immunity needs specific lymph organs such as tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs), which are highly correlated with improved survival outcomes in many cancers. In recent years, with increasing attention on the TLS in tumor microenvironment, TLSs have emerged as a novel target for anti-tumor therapy. Excitingly, studies have shown the contribution of TLSs to the adaptive immune responses. However, it is unclear how TLSs to form and how to more effectively defense against tumor through TLS formation. Recent studies have shown that the inflammation plays a critical role in TLS formation. Interestingly, studies have also found that gut microbiota can regulate the occurrence and development of inflammation. Therefore, we here summarize the potential effects of gut microbiota- mediated inflammation or immunosuppression on the TLS formation in tumor environments. Meanwhile, this review also explores how to manipulate mature TLS formation through regulating gut microbiota/metabolites or gut microbiota associated signal pathways for anti-tumor immunity, which potentially lead to a next-generation cancer immunotherapy.

Liver metastasis is the leading cause of colorectal cancer (CRC)‑related mortality. Microbiota dysbiosis serves a role in the pathogenesis of colorectal liver metastases. Bile acids (BAs), cholesterol metabolites synthesized by intestinal bacteria, contribute to the metastatic cascade of CRC, encompassing colorectal invasion, migration, angiogenesis, anoikis resistance and the establishment of a hepatic pre‑metastatic niche. BAs impact inflammation and modulate the immune landscape within the tumor microenvironment by activating signaling pathways, which are used by tumor cells to facilitate metastasis. Given the widespread distribution of BA‑activated receptors in both tumor and immune cells, strategies aimed at restoring BA homeostasis and blocking metastasis‑associated signaling are of importance in cancer therapy. The present study summarizes the specific role of BAs in each step of colorectal liver metastasis, elucidating the association between BA and CRC progression to highlight the potential of BAs as predictive biomarkers for colorectal liver metastasis and their therapeutic potential in developing novel treatment strategies.

Weaning stress causes substantial economic loss in the swine industry. Moreover, weaning-induced intestinal barrier damage and dysfunction of the gut-liver axis are associated with reduced growth performance in piglets. Metasilicate-based alkaline mineral water (AMW) has shown potential therapeutic effects on gastrointestinal disorders; however, the mechanisms involved and their overall effects on the gut-liver axis have not been explored. Here, sodium metasilicate (SMS) was used to prepare metasilicate-based AMW (basal water + 500 mg/L SMS). A total of 240 newly weaned piglets were allocated to the Control and SMS groups (6 replicate pens per group and 20 piglets per pen) for a 15-day trial period. Histopathological evaluations were conducted using hematoxylin and eosin staining. To analyze the composition of the gut microbiota, 16S rRNA PacBio SMRT Gene Full-Length Sequencing was performed. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were employed to assess protein expression levels. Our results indicated that metasilicate-based AMW effectively alleviated weaning-induced colonic or liver morphological injury and inflammatory response, as well as liver cholesterol metabolism disorders. Further analysis showed that metasilicate-based AMW promoted deoxycholic acid (DCA) biosynthesis by increasing the abundance of Lactobacillus_delbrueckii in the colon (P < 0.001). This consequently improved weaning-induced colon and liver injury and dysfunction through the DCA-secondary bile acid (SBA) receptors (SBAR)-nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB)/NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) pathways. Growth performance parameters, including final body weight (P = 0.034) and average daily gain (P < 0.001), in the SMS group were significantly higher than those in the Control group. Therefore, metasilicate-based AMW maintains gut-liver axis homeostasis by regulating the microbiota-mediated SBA-SBAR pathway in piglets under weaning stress. Our research provides a new strategy for mitigating stress-induced gut-liver axis dysfunction in weaned piglets.

The development of the fetal immune response is a highly complex process. In the present review, we describe the development of the fetal immune response and the role of the maternal gut bacteria in this process. In contrast to the previous belief that the fetal immune response is inert, it is now thought that the fetal immune response is uniquely tolerant to maternal and allo-antigens, but able to respond to infectious agents, such as bacteria. This is accomplished by the development of T cells toward regulatory T cells rather than toward effector T cells, but also by the presence of functional innate immune cells, such as monocytes and NK cells. Moreover, in fetuses there is different programming of CD8 + T cells and memory T cells toward innate immune cells rather than to adaptive immune cells. The maternal gut bacteria are important in shaping the fetal immune response by producing bacterial products and metabolites that pass the placenta into the fetus and influence development of the fetal immune response. Insight into how and when these products affect the fetal immune response may open new treatment options with pre- or probiotics to affect the maternal gut bacteria and therewith the fetal immune response.

The advent of cancer immunotherapy based on PD-1 and CTLA-4 immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has revolutionized cancer treatment. However, many cancers do not respond to ICB, highlighting the urgent need for additional approaches to achieve durable cancer remission. The large family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) is the target of more than 30% of all approved drugs, but GPCRs have been underexploited in cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss the central role of GPCRs in immune cell migration and function and describe how single-cell transcriptomic studies are illuminating the complexity of the human tumor immune GPCRome. These receptors include multiple GPCRs expressed in CD8 T cells that are activated by inflammatory mediators, protons, neurotransmitters, and metabolites that accumulate in the tumor microenvironment, thereby promoting T cell dysfunction. We also discuss new opportunities to target GPCRs as a multimodal approach to enhance the response to ICB for a myriad of human malignancies.

Gut microbiota plays an important role in multiple human physiological processes and an imbalance in it, including the species, abundance, and metabolites can lead to diseases. These enteric microorganisms modulate immune homeostasis by presenting a myriad of antigenic determinants and microbial metabolites. Medicinal and food homologous (MFH) plants, edible herbal materials for both medicine and food, are important parts of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). MFH plants have drawn much attention due to their strong biological activity and low toxicity. However, the interplay of MFH and gut microbiota in rebalancing the immune homeostasis in combating diseases needs systematic illumination.

The review discusses the interaction between MFH and gut microbiota, including the effect of MFH on the major group of gut microbiota and the metabolic effect of gut microbiota on MFH. Moreover, how gut microbiota influences the immune system in terms of innate and adaptive immunity is addressed. Finally, the immunoregulatory mechanisms of MFH in regulation of host pathophysiology via gut microbiota are summarized.

Literature was searched, analyzed, and collected using databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using relevant keywords. The obtained articles were screened and summarized by the research content of MFH and gut microbiota in immune regulation.

The review demonstrates the interaction between MFH and gut microbiota in disease prevention and treatment. Not only do the intestinal microorganisms and intestinal mucosa constitute an important immune barrier of the human body, but also lymphoid tissue and diffused immune cells within the mucosa participate in the response of innate immunity and adaptive immunity. MFH modulates immune regulation by affecting intestinal flora, helps maintain the balance of the immune system and interfere with the occurrence and development of a broad category of diseases.

Being absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, MFH can have profound effects on gut microbiota. In turn, the gut microbiota also actively participate in the bioconversion of complex constituents from MFH, which could further influence their physiological and pharmacological properties. The review deepens the understanding of the relationship among MFH, gut microbiota, immune system, and human diseases and further promotes the progression of additional relevant research.

Psychiatric disorders pose a significant global health challenge, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and insufficiently addressed by the current treatments. This review explores the emerging role of bile acids and the TGR5 receptor in the pathophysiology of psychiatric conditions, emphasizing their signaling within the gut-brain axis. We detail the synthesis and systemic functions of bile acids, their transformation by gut microbiota, and their impact across various neuropsychiatric disorders, including major depressive disorder, general anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, and bipolar disorder. The review highlights how dysbiosis and altered bile acid metabolism contribute to the development and exacerbation of these neuropsychiatric disorders through mechanisms involving inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurotransmitter dysregulation. Importantly, we detail both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions that modulate TGR5 signaling, offering potential breakthroughs in treatment strategies. These include dietary adjustments to enhance beneficial bile acids production and the use of specific TGR5 agonists that have shown promise in preclinical and clinical settings for their regulatory effects on critical pathways such as cAMP-PKA, NRF2-mediated antioxidant responses, and neuroinflammation. By integrating findings from the dynamics of gut microbiota, bile acids metabolism, and TGR5 receptor related signaling events, this review underscores cutting-edge therapeutic approaches poised to revolutionize the management and treatment of psychiatric disorders.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a complex, multisystemic disease and is associated with ocular pathology in 4-12% of patients. In general, ocular disease affects Crohn's patients more frequently than those with ulcerative colitis. Episcleritis and uveitis are the most common presentations, with episcleritis often correlating with IBD flares, whereas uveitis presents independently of IBD activity and, in some cases, may even alert clinicians to a new diagnosis of IBD. Corneal EIMs encompass a range of pathologies, such as the common and benign keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye disease), which nevertheless causes significant patient discomfort, and the rarer condition of peripheral ulcerative keratitis, which warrants urgent review due to the risk of corneal perforation. Alongside EIMs, clinicians should also be aware of the iatrogenic consequences to the eye following treatment of IBD. Corticosteroids may cause cataracts, glaucoma, and-indirectly via hyperglycaemia-diabetic retinopathy. Methotrexate is irritating to ocular tissues and may cause conjunctivitis and blepharitis. Biologic medications, such as anti-TNFα agents, overlap in their use as treatment of both IBD and uveitis, and yet in some patients may also increase the risk of acute uveitis flares, as well as opportunistic, sight-threatening infections. With integrated care between gastroenterology and ophthalmology, patient outcomes can be improved by facilitating earlier detection and management of ocular disease. This narrative review summarises the ocular extraintestinal manifestations of IBD, including pathophysiology, epidemiology, and current treatment strategies.

In this study, we examined the effect of Laminaria japonica polysaccharide (fucoidan) on the regulation of lipid metabolism. A rat model of diabetes mellitus (DM) was established by a high-sugar and high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin. Changes in the rats' body weight and blood glucose level during the experiment were recorded. Before the end of the experiment, an automatic biochemical analyzer was used to detect the fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid content in serum, and insulin content, and calculate the insulin resistance index. Oil red O staining was used to detect lipid deposition in the liver. H&E staining, Masson staining, and PASM staining were used to observe the pathological structural changes in the liver. 16 s RNA sequencing and targeted metabolomics were used to detect intestinal microbiota and bile acid content. The results showed that fucoidan was able to inhibit weight loss in the DM rats and reduce the content of triglycerides (TG), cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) in serum. Oil red O staining showed a decrease in liver fat accumulation after fucoidan treatment. 16 s RNA sequencing demonstrated that fucoidan increased the abundance of Bacteroidia, Campylobacteria, Clostridia, Gammaproteobacteria, Negativicutes, and Verrucomicrobi. Fucoidan also increased the secretion of secondary bile acids (Nor-DCA, TLCA, β-UDCA) and alleviated lipid metabolism disorders. The expression of α-SMA was inhibited by fucoidan, whereas the expression of FXR and TGR5 was promoted. Fucoidan shows good activity in regulating lipid metabolism by regulating the expression of FXR and TGR5 and acting on the intestinal flora-bile acid axis.

While fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been shown to be effective in reversing gut dysbiosis, we lack an understanding of the fundamental processes underlying microbial engraftment in the mammalian gut. Here, we explored a murine gut colonization model leveraging natural inter-individual variations in gut microbiomes to elucidate the spatiotemporal dynamics of FMT. We identified a natural "super-donor" consortium that robustly engrafts into diverse recipients and resists reciprocal colonization. Temporal profiling of the gut microbiome showed an ordered succession of rapid engraftment by early colonizers within 72 h, followed by a slower emergence of late colonizers over 15-30 days. Moreover, engraftment was localized to distinct compartments of the gastrointestinal tract in a species-specific manner. Spatial metagenomic characterization suggested engraftment was mediated by simultaneous transfer of spatially co-localizing species from the super-donor consortia. These results offer a mechanism of super-donor colonization by which nutritional niches are expanded in a spatiotemporally dependent manner. A record of this paper's transparent peer review process is included in the supplemental information.

The intestinal microbiota comprises approximately 1013-1014 species of bacteria and plays a crucial role in host metabolism by facilitating various chemical reactions. Secondary bile acids (BAs) are key metabolites produced by gut microbiota.Initially synthesized by the liver, BA undergoes structural modifications through the activity of various intestinal microbiota enzymes, including eukaryotic, bacterial, and archaeal enzymes. These modified BA then activate specific receptors that regulate multiple metabolic pathways in the host, such as lipid and glucose metabolism, energy balance, inflammatory response, and cell proliferation and death. Recent attention has been given to intestinal flora disorders in diabetic kidney disease (DKD), where activation of BA receptors has shown promise in alleviating diabetic kidney damage by modulating renal lipid metabolism and mitochondrial production. Imbalances in the intestinal flora can influence the progression of DKD through the regulation of bile acid and its receptor pathways. This review aims to propose a mechanism involving the gut-BA-diabetes and nephropathy axes with the goal of optimizing new strategies for treating DKD.

Bile acids, synthesized endogenously from cholesterol, play a central role in metabolic regulation within the enterohepatic circulatory system. Traditionally known as emulsifying agents that facilitate the intestinal absorption of vitamins and lipids, recent research reveals their function as multifaceted signal modulators involved in various physiological processes. These molecules are now recognized as key regulators of chronic metabolic diseases and immune dysfunction. Despite progress in understanding their roles, their structural diversity and the specific functions of individual bile acids remain underexplored.

This study categorizes the bile acids based on their chemical structures and their roles as signaling molecules in physiological processes. It consolidates current knowledge and provides a comprehensive overview of the current research. The review also includes natural and semisynthetic variants that have demonstrated potential in regulating metabolic processes in animal models or clinical contexts.

Bile acids circulate primarily within the enterohepatic circulation, where they help maintain a healthy digestive system. Disruptions in their balance are linked to metabolic disorders, hepatobiliary diseases and intestinal inflammation. Through receptor-mediated pathways, bile acids influence the progression of metabolic diseases by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, immune function, and energy expenditure. This review aims to provide a comprehensive, systematic foundation to for understanding their physiological roles and supporting future therapeutic developments for metabolic and inflammatory diseases.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperandrogenism and related symptoms in women of reproductive age. Emerging evidence suggests that chronic low-grade inflammation plays a significant role in the development of PCOS. The gut microbiota, a complex bacterial ecosystem, has been extensively studied for various diseases, including PCOS, while the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. This review comprehensively summarizes the changes in gut microbiota and metabolites observed in PCOS and their potential association with the condition. Additionally, we discuss the role of abnormal nuclear factor κB signaling in the pathogenesis of PCOS. These findings offer valuable insights into the mechanisms of PCOS and may pave the way for the development of control and therapeutic strategies for this condition in clinical practice. By bridging the gap between mouse models and clinical patients, this review contributes to a better understanding of the interplay between gut microbiota and inflammation in PCOS, thus paving new ways for future investigations and interventions.

Bile acids are increasingly appearing in the spotlight owing to their novel impacts on various host processes. Similarly, there is growing attention on members of the microbiota that are responsible for bile acid modifications. With recent advances in technology enabling the discovery and continued identification of microbially conjugated bile acids, the chemical complexity of the bile acid landscape in the body is increasing at a rapid pace. In this Review, we summarize our current understanding of how bile acids and the gut microbiota interact to modulate immune responses during homeostasis and disease, with a particular focus on the gut.

Background/objective: Approximately one-third of pregnant individuals in the U.S. are affected by obesity, which can adversely impact the in utero environment and offspring. This study aimed to investigate the differences in urine metabolomics between children exposed and unexposed to maternal obesity. Methods: In a study nested within a larger pregnancy cohort of women-offspring pairs, we measured untargeted metabolomics using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in urine samples from 68 children at 4-8 years of age. We compared metabolite levels between offspring exposed to maternal obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30.0 kg/m2) vs. unexposed (maternal BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m2) and matched them on covariates, using two-sample t-tests, with additional sensitivity analyses based on children's BMI. This study reports statistically significant results (p ≤ 0.05) and potentially noteworthy findings (fold change > 1 or 0.05 < p < 0.15), considering compounds' involvement in common pathways or similar biochemical families. Results: The mean (SD) maternal age at study enrollment was 28.0 (6.3) years, the mean child age was 6.6 (0.8) years, 56% of children were male, and 38% of children had a BMI in the overweight/obese range (BMI ≥ 85th percentile). Children exposed to maternal obesity had lower levels of 5-hydroxyindole sulfate and 7-hydroxyindole sulfate and higher levels of secondary bile acids. Phenylacetic acid derivatives were lower in offspring exposed to obesity and in offspring who had a current BMI in the overweight/obese range. Exposure to maternal obesity was associated with lower levels of androgenic steroid dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S). Conclusions: In this preliminary study, children exposed to maternal obesity in utero had differences in microbiome-related metabolites in urine suggestive of altered microbial catabolism of tryptophan and acetylated peptides. Some of these differences were partially attributable to the offspring's current BMI status. This study highlights the potential of urine metabolomics to identify biomarkers and pathways impacted by in utero exposure to maternal obesity.

Bile acids are the end products of cholesterol catabolism. Hepatic bile acid synthesis accounts for a major fraction of daily cholesterol turnover in humans. Biliary secretion of bile acids generates bile flow and facilitates biliary secretion of lipids, endogenous metabolites, and xenobiotics. In intestine, bile acids facilitate the digestion and absorption of dietary lipids and fat-soluble vitamins. Through activation of nuclear receptors and G protein-coupled receptors and interaction with gut microbiome, bile acids critically regulate host metabolism and innate and adaptive immunity and are involved in the pathogenesis of cholestasis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, alcohol-associated liver disease, type-2 diabetes, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Bile acids and their derivatives have been developed as potential therapeutic agents for treating chronic metabolic and inflammatory liver diseases and gastrointestinal disorders. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Bile acids facilitate biliary cholesterol solubilization and dietary lipid absorption, regulate host metabolism and immunity, and modulate gut microbiome. Targeting bile acid metabolism and signaling holds promise for treating metabolic and inflammatory diseases.

The tumour microenvironment represents a novel frontier in oncological research. Over the past decade, accumulating evidence has underscored the importance of the tumour microenvironment (TME), including tumour cells, stromal cells, immune cells, and various secreted factors, which collectively influence tumour growth, invasion, and responses to therapeutic agents. Immune cells within the TME are now widely acknowledged to play pivotal roles in tumour development and treatment. While some perspectives have posited that immune cells within the TME facilitate tumour progression and confer resistance to therapeutic interventions, contrasting conclusions also exist. Affirmative and negative conclusions appear to be context dependent, and a unified consensus has yet to be reached. The burgeoning body of research on the relationship between the gut microbiota and tumours in recent years has led to a growing understanding. Most studies have indicated that specific components of the gut microbiota, such as unique bacterial communities or specific secretory factors, play diverse roles in regulating immune cells within the TME, thereby influencing the prognosis and outcomes of cancer treatments. A detailed understanding of these factors could provide novel insights into the TME and cancer therapy. In this study, we aimed to synthesise information on the interactions between the gut microbiota and immune cells within the TME, providing an in-depth exploration of the potential guiding implications for future cancer therapies.

Uveitis is a vision-threatening disease primarily driven by a dysregulated immune response, with retinal microglia playing a pivotal role in its progression. Although the transcription factor EGR2 is known to be closely associated with uveitis, including Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease and Behcet's disease, and is essential for maintaining the dynamic homeostasis of autoimmunity, its exact role in uveitis remains unclear. In this study, diminished EGR2 expression was observed in both retinal microglia from experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) mice and inflammation-induced human microglia cell line (HMC3). We constructed a mice model with conditional knockout of EGR2 in microglia and found that EGR2 deficiency resulted in increased intraocular inflammation. Meanwhile, EGR2 overexpression downregulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines as well as cell migration and proliferation in HMC3 cells. Next, RNA sequencing and ChIP-PCR results indicated that EGR2 directly bound to its downstream target growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) and further regulated GDF15 transcription. Furthermore, intravitreal injection of GDF15 recombinant protein was shown to ameliorate EAU progression in vivo. Meanwhile, knockdown of GDF15 reversed the phenotype of EGR2 overexpression-induced microglial inflammation in vitro. In summary, this study highlighted the protective role of the transcription factor EGR2 in AU by modulating the microglial phenotype. GFD15 was identified as a downstream target of EGR2, providing a unique target for uveitis treatment.

Dietary fibers can alter microbial metabolic output in support of healthy immune function; however, the impact of distinct fiber sources and immunomodulatory effects beyond short-chain fatty acid production are underexplored. In an effort to discern the effects of diverse fibers on host immunity, we employed five distinct rodent diets with varying fiber content and source in specific-pathogen-free, gnotobiotic (containing a 14-member synthetic human gut microbiota), and germ-free mice.

Broad-scale metabolomics analysis of cecal contents revealed that fiber deprivation consistently reduced the concentrations of microbiota-produced B vitamins. This phenomenon was not always explained by reduced biosynthesis, rather, metatranscriptomic analyses pointed toward increased microbial usage of certain B vitamins under fiber-free conditions, ultimately resulting in a net reduction of host-available B vitamins. Broad immunophenotyping indicated that the local gut effector immune populations and activated T cells accumulate in a microbiota-dependent manner. Supplementation with the prebiotic inulin recovered the availability of microbially produced B vitamins and restored immune homeostasis.

Our findings highlight the potential to use defined fiber polysaccharides to boost microbiota-derived B vitamin availability in an animal model and to regulate local innate and adaptive immune populations of the host. Video abstract.

The intestinal microbiota determines immune responses against extraintestinal antigens, including tumor-associated antigens. Indeed, depletion or gross perturbation of the microbiota undermines the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy, thereby compromising the clinical outcome of cancer patients. In this review, we discuss the long-distance effects of the gut microbiota and the mechanisms governing antitumor immunity, such as the translocation of intestinal microbes into tumors, migration of leukocyte populations from the gut to the rest of the body, including tumors, as well as immunomodulatory microbial products and metabolites. The relationship between these pathways is incompletely understood, in particular the significance of the tumor microbiota with respect to the identification of host and/or microbial products that regulate the egress of bacteria and immunocytes toward tumor beds.

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.

Bile acids are synthesised in the liver and are essential amphiphilic steroids for maintaining the balance of cholesterol and energy metabolism in livestock and poultry. They can be used as novel feed additives to promote fat utilisation in the diet and the absorption of fat-soluble substances in the feed to improve livestock performance and enhance carcass quality. With the development of understanding of intestinal health, the balance of bile acid metabolism is closely related to the composition and growth of livestock intestinal microbiota, inflammatory response, and metabolic diseases. This paper systematically reviews the effects of bile acid metabolism on gut health and gut microbiology in livestock. In addition, our paper summarised the role of bile acid metabolism in performance and disease control.

Bile acids (BAs) play a crucial role in the human body's defense against infections caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. BAs counteract infections not only through interactions with intestinal bacteria exhibiting bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity but they also directly combat infections. Building upon our research group's previous discoveries highlighting the role of BAs in combating infections, we have initiated an in-depth investigation into the interactions between BAs and intestinal microbiota. Leveraging the existing literature, we offer a comprehensive analysis of the relationships between BAs and 16 key microbiota. This investigation encompasses bacteria (e.g., Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli, Enterococcus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis), Bacteroides, Clostridium scindens (C. scindens), Streptococcus thermophilus, Clostridium butyricum (C. butyricum), and lactic acid bacteria), fungi (e.g., Candida albicans (C. albicans) and Saccharomyces boulardii), and viruses (e.g., coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, influenza virus, and norovirus). Our research found that Bacteroides, C. scindens, Streptococcus thermophilus, Saccharomyces boulardii, C. butyricum, and lactic acid bacteria can regulate the metabolism and function of BSHs and 7α-dehydroxylase. BSHs and 7α-dehydroxylase play crucial roles in the conversion of primary bile acid (PBA) to secondary bile acid (SBA). It is important to note that PBAs generally promote infections, while SBAs often exhibit distinct anti-infection roles. In the antimicrobial action of BAs, SBAs demonstrate antagonistic properties against a wide range of microbiota, with the exception of norovirus. Given the intricate interplay between BAs and intestinal microbiota, and their regulatory effects on infections, we assert that BAs hold significant potential as a novel approach for preventing and treating microbial infections.

Bile acids (BAs) are synthesized by the host liver from cholesterol and are delivered to the intestine, where they undergo further metabolism by gut microbes and circulate between the liver and intestines through various transporters. They serve to emulsify dietary lipids and act as signaling molecules, regulating the host's metabolism and immune homeostasis through specific receptors. Therefore, disruptions in BA metabolism, transport, and signaling are closely associated with cholestasis, metabolic disorders, autoimmune diseases, and others. Botanical triterpenoids and steroids share structural similarities with BAs, and they have been found to modulate BA metabolism, transport, and signaling, potentially exerting pharmacological or toxicological effects. Here, we have updated the research progress on BA, with a particular emphasis on new-found microbial BAs. Additionally, the latest advancements in targeting BA metabolism and signaling for disease treatment are highlighted. Subsequently, the roles of botanical triterpenoids in BA metabolism, transport, and signaling are examined, analyzing their potential pharmacological, toxicological, or drug interaction effects through these mechanisms. Finally, a research paradigm is proposed that utilizes the gut microbiota as a link to interpret the role of these important natural products in BA signaling.