Anti-inflammatory pathways of kefir in murine model: a systematic review.

CONTEXT: Kefir consumption has been associated with immune response modulation, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this systematic review was to investigate the role of kefir against inflammation and the main response mechanisms involved in this process in a murine model. DATA SOURCES: The searches were searched in the PubMed, Science Direct, and LILACS databases. Only murine model studies, according to PRISMA guidelines, published in the past 10 years were included. STUDY SELECTION: Only articles about original and placebo-controlled experiments in murine models used to investigate the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of kefir were considered. Of the articles found, 349 were excluded according to the following criteria: duplicate articles (n = 99), off-topic title and abstract (n = 157), reviews (n = 47), studies in vitro (n = 29), and studies with humans (n = 17). In total, 23 studies were included in this review. DATA EXTRACTION: Two independently working authors assessed the risk of bias and extracted data from the included studies. RESULTS: Kefir consumption had positive effects on inflammation modulation. The main mechanisms involved were the reduction of pro-inflammatory and molecular markers; reduction in inflammatory infiltrate in tissues, serum biomarkers, risk factors for chronic diseases, and parasitic infection; composition and metabolic activity change of intestinal microbiota and mycobiota; activation of humoral and cellular immunity; and modulation of oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS: Kefir modulates the immune system in different experimental models, among other secondary outcomes, to improve overall health. The beverage reduces inflammation through the alternation between innate, Th1, and Th2 responses, reducing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines while increasing those of anti-inflammatory ones. In addition, it also mediates immunomodulatory and protective effects through the numerous molecular biomarkers and organic acids produced and secreted by kefir in the intestinal microbiota. The health-promoting effects attributed to kefir may help in the different treatments of inflammatory, chronic, and infectious diseases in the population.

Milk kefir alters fecal microbiota impacting gut and brain health in mice.

Kefir is a fermented beverage made of a symbiotic microbial community that stands out for health benefits. Although its microbial profile is still little explored, its effects on modulation of gut microbiota and production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) seems to act by improving brain health. This work aimed to analyze the microbiota profile of milk kefir and its effect on metabolism, oxidative stress, and in the microbiota-gut-brain axis in a murine model. The experimental design was carried out using C57BL-6 mice (n = 20) subdivided into groups that received 0.1 mL water or 0.1 mL (10% w/v) kefir. The kefir proceeded to maturation for 48 h, and then it was orally administered, via gavage, to the animals for 4 weeks. Physicochemical, microbiological, antioxidant analyzes, and microbial profiling of milk kefir beverage were performed as well as growth parameters, food intake, serum markers, oxidative stress, antioxidant enzymes, SCFAs, and metabarcoding were analyzed in the mice. Milk kefir had 76.64 ± 0.42% of free radical scavenging and the microbiota composed primarily by the genus Comamonas. Moreover, kefir increased catalase and superoxide dismutase (colon), and SCFAs in feces (butyrate), and in the brain (butyrate and propionate). Kefir reduced triglycerides, uric acid, and affected the microbiome of animals increasing fecal butyrate-producing bacteria (Lachnospiraceae and Lachnoclostridium). Our results on the brain and fecal SCFAs and the antioxidant effect found were associated with the change in the gut microbiota caused by kefir, which indicates that kefir positively influences the gut-microbiota-brain axis and contributes to the preservation of gut and brain health. KEY POINTS: • Milk kefir modulates fecal microbiota and SCFA production in brain and colon. • Kefir treatment increases the abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria. • Milk kefir increases antioxidant enzymes and influences the metabolism of mice.

The role of IL-10 in regulating inflammation and gut microbiome in mice consuming milk kefir and orally challenged with S. Typhimurium.

Kefir has been suggested as a possible bacterial prophylaxis against Salmonella and IL-10 production seems to be crucial in the pathogenesis of salmonellosis in mice. This study evaluated the role of IL-10 in the inflammation and gut microbiome in mice consuming milk kefir and orally challenged with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. C57BL wild type (WT) (n = 40) and C57BL IL-10-/- (KO) (n = 40) mice were subdivided into eight experimental groups either treated or not with kefir. In the first 15 days, the water groups received filtered water (0.1 mL) while the kefir groups received milk kefir (10% w/v) orally by gavage. Then, two groups of each strain received a single dose (0.1 mL) of the inoculum of S. Typhimurium (ATCC 14028, dose: 106 CFU mL-1). After four weeks, the animals were euthanized to remove the colon for further analysis. Kefir prevented systemic infections only in IL-10-/- mice, which were able to survive, regulate cytokines, and control colon inflammation. The abundance in Lachnospiraceae and Roseburia, and also the higher SCFA production in the pre-infection, showed that kefir has a role in intestinal health and protection, colonizing and offering competition for nutrients with the pathogen as well as acting in the regulation of salmonella infectivity only in the absence of IL-10. These results demonstrate the role of IL-10 in the prognosis of salmonellosis and how milk kefir can be used in acute infections.

FADS1 and FADS2 Gene Polymorphisms Modulate the Relationship of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acid Plasma Concentrations in Gestational Weight Gain: A NISAMI Cohort Study.

The polymorphisms of fatty acid desaturase genes FADS1 and FADS2 have been associated with an increase in weight gain. We investigated FADS1 and FADS2 gene polymorphisms and the relation between ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acid plasma concentrations and gestational weight gain. A prospective cohort study of 199 pregnant women was followed in Santo Antônio de Jesus, Brazil. Plasma levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were measured at baseline and gestational weight gain during the first, second, and third trimesters. Fatty acid recognition was carried out with the aid of gas chromatography. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped using real-time PCR. Statistical analyses included Structural Equation Modelling. A direct effect of FADS1 and FADS2 gene polymorphisms on gestational weight was observed; however, only the SNP rs174575 (FADS2) showed a significant positive direct effect on weight over the course of the pregnancy (0.106; p = 0.016). In terms of the influence of SNPs on plasma levels of PUFAs, it was found that SNP rs174561 (FADS1) and SNP rs174575 (FADS2) showed direct adverse effects on plasma concentrations of ω-3 (eicosapentaenoic acid and alpha-linoleic acid), and only SNP rs174575 had positive direct effects on plasma levels of ARA and the ARA/LA (arachidonic acid/linoleic acid) ratio, ω-6 products, while the SNP rs3834458 (FADS2) had an adverse effect on plasma concentrations of EPA, leading to its increase. Pregnant women who were heterozygous and homozygous for the minor allele of the SNP rs3834458 (FADS2), on the other hand, showed larger concentrations of series ω-3 substrates, which indicates a protective factor for women's health.

Ceftriaxone causes dysbiosis and changes intestinal structure in adjuvant obesity treatment.

BACKGROUND: Obesity is still a worldwide public health problem, requiring the development of adjuvant therapies to combat it. In this context, modulation of the intestinal microbiota seems prominent, given that the composition of the intestinal microbiota contributes to the outcome of this disease. The aim of this work is to investigate the treatment with an antimicrobial and/or a potential probiotic against overweight. METHODS: Male C57BL/6J mice were subjected to a 12-week overweight induction protocol. After that, 4-week treatment was started, with mice divided into four groups: control, treated with distilled water; potential probiotic, with Lactobacillus gasseri LG-G12; antimicrobial, with ceftriaxone; and antimicrobial + potential probiotic with ceftriaxone in the first 2 weeks and L. gasseri LG-G12 in the subsequent weeks. RESULTS: The treatment with ceftriaxone in isolated form or in combination with the potential probiotic provided a reduction in body fat. However, such effect is supposed to be a consequence of the negative action of ceftriaxone on the intestinal microbiota composition, and this intestinal dysbiosis may have contributed to the destruction of the intestinal villi structure, which led to a reduction in the absorptive surface. Also, the effects of L. gasseri LG-G12 apparently have been masked by the consumption of the high-fat diet. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that the use of a ceftriaxone in the adjuvant treatment of overweight is not recommended due to the potential risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease.

Antibiotic Followed by a Potential Probiotic Increases Brown Adipose Tissue, Reduces Biometric Measurements, and Changes Intestinal Microbiota Phyla in Obesity.

The development of adjuvant therapies for obesity treatment is justified by the high prevalence of this disease worldwide, and the relationship between obesity and intestinal microbiota is a promising target for obesity treatment. Therefore, this study aimed at investigating the adjuvant treatment of obesity through the use of potential probiotics and antibiotics, either separately or sequentially. In the first phase of the experiment, animals had diet-induced obesity with consumption of a high saturated fat diet and a fructose solution. After this period, there was a reduction in caloric supply, that is the conventional treatment of obesity, and the animals were divided into 5 experimental groups: control group (G1), obese group (G2), potential probiotic group (G3), antibiotic group (G4), and antibiotic followed by potential probiotic group (G5). The adjuvant treatments lasted 4 weeks and were administered daily, via gavage: Animals in G1 and G2 received distilled water, the G3 obtained Lactobacillus gasseri LG-G12, and the G4 received ceftriaxone. The G5 received ceftriaxone for 2 weeks, followed by the offer of Lactobacillus gasseri LG-G12 for another 2 weeks. Parameters related to obesity, such as biometric measurements, food consumption, biochemical tests, histological assessments, short-chain fatty acids concentration, and composition of the intestinal microbiota, were analyzed. The treatment with caloric restriction and sequential supply of antibiotics and potential probiotics was able to reduce biometric measures, increase brown adipose tissue, and alter the intestinal microbiota phyla, standing out as a promising treatment for obesity.

Diet-induced obesity in animal models: points to consider and influence on metabolic markers.

Overweight and obesity are a worldwide public health problem. Obesity prevalence has increased considerably, which indicates the need for more studies to better understand these diseases and related complications. Diet induced-obesity (DIO) animal models can reproduce human overweight and obesity, and there are many protocols used to lead to excess fat deposition. So, the purpose of this review was to identify the key points for the induction of obesity through diet, as well as identifying which are the necessary endpoints to be achieved when inducing fat gain. For this, we reviewed the literature in the last 6 years, looking for original articles that aimed to induce obesity through the diet. All articles evaluated should have a control group, in order to verify the results found, and had worked with Sprague-Dawley and Wistar rats, or with C57BL-/-6 mice strain. Articles that induced obesity by other methods, such as genetic manipulation, surgery, or drugs were excluded, since our main objective was to identify key points for the induction of obesity through diet. Articles in humans, in cell culture, in non-rodent animals, as well as review articles, articles that did not have obesity induction and book chapters were also excluded. Body weight and fat gain, as well as determinants related to inflammation, hormonal concentration, blood glycemia, lipid profile, and liver health, must be evaluated together to better determination of the development of obesity. In addition, to select the best model in each circumstance, it should be considered that each breed and sex respond differently to diet-induced obesity. The composition of the diet and calorie overconsumption are also relevant to the development of obesity. Finally, it is important that a non-obese control group is included in the experimental design.

Prophylactic and therapeutic supplementation using fructo-oligosaccharide improves the intestinal homeostasis after mucositis induced by 5- fluorouracil.

The beneficial effects of prebiotic, such as fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), in intestinal inflammation have been demonstrated in several studies. Herein, we evaluate whether joint treatment with FOS, both before and during mucositis, had additional beneficial effects and investigated the mechanisms underlying in the action of FOS on the intestinal barrier. BALB/c mice were randomly divided into five groups: CTR (without mucositis + saline solution), FOS (without mucositis + 6 % FOS), MUC (mucositis + saline solution), PT (mucositis + 6 % FOS supplementation before disease induction), and TT (mucositis + 6 % FOS supplementation before and during disease induction). Mucositis was induced by intraperitoneal injection (300 mg/kg) of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). After 72 h, the animals were euthanized and intestinal permeability (IP), tight junction, bacterial translocation (BT), histology and morphometry, and immunoglobulin A secretory (sIgA), inflammatory infiltrate, and production of short-chain fatty acids (acetate, butyrate and propionate) were evaluated. The MUC group showed an increase in the IP, BT, and inflammatory infiltrate but a decrease in the tight junction expression and butyrate and propionate levels (P < 0.05). In the PT and TT groups, FOS supplementation maintained the IP, tight junction expression, and propionate concentration within physiologic levels, increased butyrate levels, and reduced BT and inflammatory infiltrate (P < 0.05). Total treatment with FOS (TT group) was more effective in maintaining histological score, morphometric parameters, and sIgA production. Thus, total treatment (prophylactic and therapeutic supplementation) with FOS was more effective than pretreatment alone, in reducing 5-FU-induced damage to the intestinal barrier.

Chemoprevention of DMH-Induced Early Colon Carcinogenesis in Male BALB/c Mice by Administration of Lactobacillus Paracasei DTA81.

We evaluated the effects of the probiotic candidate Lactobacillus paracasei DTA81 (DTA81) on liver oxidative stress, colonic cytokine profile, and gut microbiota in mice with induced early colon carcinogenesis (CRC) by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). Animals were divided into four different groups (n = 6) and received the following treatments via orogastric gavage for 8 weeks: Group skim milk (GSM): 300 mg/freeze-dried skim milk/day; Group L. paracasei DTA81 (DTA81): 3 × 109 colony-forming units (CFU)/day; Group Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG): 3 × 109 CFU/day; Group non-intervention (GNI): 0.1 mL/water/day. A single DMH dose (20 mg/kg body weight) was injected intraperitoneally (i.p), weekly, in all animals (seven applications in total). At the end of the experimental period, DTA81 intake reduced hepatic levels of carbonyl protein and malondialdehyde (MDA). Moreover, low levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-17, as well as a reduced expression level of the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were observed in colonic homogenates. Lastly, animals who received DTA81 showed an intestinal enrichment of the genus Ruminiclostridium and increased concentrations of caecal acetic acid and total short-chain fatty acids. In conclusion, this study indicates that the administration of the probiotic candidate DTA81 can have beneficial effects on the initial stages of CRC development.

Synbiotic VSL#3 and yacon-based product modulate the intestinal microbiota and prevent the development of pre-neoplastic lesions in a colorectal carcinogenesis model.

Colorectal cancer is a public health problem, with dysbiosis being one of the risk factors due to its role in intestinal inflammation. Probiotics and synbiotics have been used in order to restore the microbiota balance and to prevent colorectal carcinogenesis. We aimed to investigate the effects of the probiotic VSL#3® alone or in combination with a yacon-based prebiotic concentrate on the microbiota modulation and its influence on colorectal carcinogenesis in an animal model. C57BL/6J mice were divided into three groups: control (control diet), probiotic (control diet + VSL#3®), and synbiotic (yacon diet + VSL#3®). The diets were provided for 13 weeks and, from the third one, all animals were subjected to induction of colorectal cancer precursor lesions. Stool samples were collected to evaluate organic acids, feces pH, ß-glucuronidase activity, and microbiota composition. The colon was used to count pre-neoplastic lesions and to determine the cytokines. The microbiota composition was influenced by the use of probiotic and synbiotic. Modifications were also observed in the abundance of bacterial genera with respect to the control group, which confirms the interference of carcinogenesis in the microbiota. Pre-neoplastic lesions were reduced by the use of the synbiotic, but not with the probiotic. The protection provided by the synbiotic can be attributed to the modulation of the intestinal inflammatory response, to the inhibition of a pro-carcinogenic enzyme, and to the production of organic acids. The modulation of the composition and activity of the microbiota contributed to beneficial changes in the intestinal microenvironment, which led to a reduction in carcinogenesis. KEY POINTS: • Synbiotic reduces the incidence of colorectal cancer precursor lesions. • Synbiotic modulates the composition and activity of intestinal microbiota. • Synbiotic increases the abundance of butyrate-producing bacteria.

Does aerobic exercise associated with tryptophan supplementation attenuates hyperalgesia and inflammation in female rats with experimental fibromyalgia?

The objective of this study was to verify the effects of aerobic exercise associated with tryptophan (TRP) supplementation on hyperalgesia, as well as on cortisol, IL-6 and TNF concentrations in female rats with experimental fibromyalgia (FM). Female Wistar rats (initial body weight: ~ 350 g; age: 12 months) were randomly divided into 5 groups: CON (Control); F (Fibromyalgia induced); FE (Fibromyalgia induced plus exercise); FES (Fibromyalgia induced plus exercise and TRP supplementation) and FS (Fibromyalgia induced plus TRP supplementation). Fibromyalgia was induced with two injections (20 µL) of acidic saline (pH 4.0) into the right gastrocnemius muscle with a 3-day interval. Control animals received the same doses of neutral saline (pH 7.4). The exercised animals underwent progressive low-intensity aerobic exercise (LIAE) on a treadmill (10-12 m/min, 30-45 min/day, 5 days/week) for three weeks. During this period, the supplemented animals received a TRP supplemented diet (210 g/week), while the others received a control diet. Mechanical hyperalgesia was evaluated weekly and serum cortisol and muscle IL-6 and TNF concentrations were assessed after three weeks of interventions. Experimental FM caused bilateral hind paw hyperalgesia and augmented serum cortisol and muscle IL-6 concentrations. After 3 weeks of interventions, LIAE alone reduced hyperalgesia (151%) and reduced serum cortisol concentrations (72%). Tryptophan supplementation itself diminished hyperalgesia (57%) and reduced serum cortisol concentrations (67%). Adding TRP supplementation to LIAE did not further reduce hyperalgesia significantly (11%), which was followed by an important decrease in muscle IL-6 concentrations (68%), though reduction in serum cortisol pulled back to 45%. Muscle TNF concentrations were not affected. In conclusion, the association of TRP supplementation to LIAE does not potentiate significantly the reduction of bilateral mechanical hyperalgesia promoted by LIAE in female rats with experimental FM, however an important decrease in IL-6 is evident.

Consumption of extra virgin olive oil improves body composition and blood pressure in women with excess body fat: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

PURPOSE: Despite the fact that extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is widely used in obese individuals to treat cardiovascular diseases, the role of EVOO on weight/fat reduction remains unclear. We investigated the effects of energy-restricted diet containing EVOO on body composition and metabolic disruptions related to obesity. METHODS: This is a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial in which 41 adult women with excess body fat (mean ± SD 27.0 ± 0.9 year old, 46.8 ± 0.6% of total body fat) received daily high-fat breakfasts containing 25 mL of soybean oil (control group, n = 20) or EVOO (EVOO group, n = 21) during nine consecutive weeks. Breakfasts were part of an energy-restricted normal-fat diets (-2090 kJ, ~32%E from fat). Anthropometric and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry were assessed, and fasting blood was collected on the first and last day of the experiment. RESULTS: Fat loss was ~80% higher on EVOO compared to the control group (mean ± SE: -2.4 ± 0.3 kg vs. -1.3 ± 0.4 kg, P = 0.037). EVOO also reduced diastolic blood pressure when compared to control (-5.1 ± 1.6 mmHg vs. +0.3 ± 1.2 mmHg, P = 0.011). Within-group differences (P < 0.050) were observed for HDL-c (-2.9 ± 1.2 mmol/L) and IL-10 (+0.9 ± 0.1 pg/mL) in control group, and for serum creatinine (+0.04 ± 0.01 µmol/L) and alkaline phosphatase (-3.3 ± 1.8 IU/L) in the EVOO group. There was also a trend for IL-1ß EVOO reduction (-0.3 ± 0.1 pg/mL, P = 0.060). CONCLUSION: EVOO consumption reduced body fat and improved blood pressure. Our results indicate that EVOO should be included into energy-restricted programs for obesity treatment.

Vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency is associated with insulin resistance in Brazilian children, regardless of body fat distribution.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency and its association with cardiometabolic risk factors, controlled by adiposity, in a representative sample of prepubescent children. DESIGN: Cross-sectional population-based study. Body composition was evaluated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Anthropometric measures and blood pressure were performed. Laboratory analyses were performed to determine the levels of vitamin D (25-hydroxyitamin D; 25(OH)D), glucose, insulin, serum lipids and intact parathyroid hormone. Dietary intake was assessed by three 24 h recalls. SETTING: Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil, 2015. SUBJECTS: Representative sample of 378 children aged 8 and 9 years from urban schools. RESULTS: Inadequate serum concentrations of 25(OH)D were diagnosed in more than half of the children and none of them met the recommended vitamin D intake. After adjusting for confounding factors in the multiple regression analysis, lower prevalence of insulin resistance and hypertriacylglycerolaemia was found in children with serum 25(OH)D levels ≥75 nmol/l (prevalence ratio=0·25; 95 % CI 0·08, 0·85) and ≥50 nmol/l (prevalence ratio=0·61; 95 % CI 0·37, 0·99), respectively. However, after adjusting for different indicators of adiposity, insulin resistance remained independently associated and the association with hypertriacylglycerolaemia was lost after adjusting for central adiposity. The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency was associated with the number of cardiometabolic alterations in children. CONCLUSIONS: The study results showed that prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency was high among the children and insulin resistance was the main cardiometabolic alteration associated with this condition, even in a tropical climate country such as Brazil.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION, CHARACTERIZATION OF ANTHOCYANINS AND ANTIOXIDANT POTENTIAL OF EUTERPE EDULIS FRUITS: APPLICABILITY ON GENETIC DYSLIPIDEMIA AND HEPATIC STEATOSIS IN MICE.

UNLABELLED: The significance of polyphenol intake for the prevention of chronic diseases is controversial. OBJECTIVE: this study investigated the chemical composition and antioxidant potential of an anthocyanin-rich extract from Euterpe edulis fruits (LPEF) and its effects on liver steatosis in dyslipidemic apoE-/- knockout mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: mice were divided into G1 (C57BL/6) standard diet; G2 (apoE-/-) standard diet, G3 (apoE-/-) 2% LPEF, G4 (apoE-/-) 6% LPEF, G5 (apoE-/-) 10% LPEF, G6 (apoE-/-) 2% α-tocopherol acetate. After 75 days of treatment, the animals were euthanized. The LPEF contained a high level of monomeric anthocyanins (301.4 mg/100g) and marked antioxidant activity. RESULTS: Catalase activity was reduced in G3, G4, G5 and G6 compared to G2. Superoxide dismutase was reduced only in G4. The animals in G4, G5, and G6 showed low HDL and triglycerides levels compared to G2. The proportion of lipid droplets in liver tissue was reduced in G4 and G5 compared to G2, G3, and G6. CONCLUSION: The results indicated that E. edulis pulp is rich in anthocyanins and the LPEF dietary consumption can reduce the severity of liver steatosis in apoE-/- mice, an effect that is potentially mediated by the antioxidant activity of this extract and modulation of triglyceride serum levels.

El papel de los polifenoles en la prevención de enfermedades crónicas es controvertido. Objetivo: este estudio investigó la composición química y el potencial antioxidante de un extracto del fruto de Euterpe edulis rico en antocianinas (LPEF) y sus efectos en la esteatosis hepática en ratones apoE-/- knockout con dislipidemia. Material y métodos: los ratones fueron divididos en los siguientes grupos; G1 (C57BL/6) con una dieta estándar; G2 (apoE-/-) con dieta estándar; G3 G3 (apoE-/-) con 2% de LPEF; G4 (apoE-/-) con 6% de LPEF; G5 (apoE-/-) con 10% de LPEF y G6 (apoE-/-) con 2% acetato α-tocoferol (α-tocopherol acetate). Después de 75 días de tratamiento, los animales fueron eutanizados. El LPEF contenía un alto nivel de antocianinas monoméricas (301,4 mg/100 g) con notable actividad antioxidante. Resultados: la actividad catalasa fue reducida en los grupos G3, G4, G5 y G6 comparada con G2. La superoxidasa dismutasa solo se redujo en el grupo G4. Los animales de G4, G5 y G6 mostraron bajos niveles de HDL triglicéridos, comparados con G2. La proporción de lípidos en el tejido hepático fue reducida en G4 y G5, comparado con G2, G3 y G6. Conclusión: los resultados indicaron que la pulpa de E. edulis es rica en antocianinas, y que el consumo de LPEF en la dieta puede reducir la severidad de la esteatosis hepática en ratones apoE-/-, un efecto que es potencialmente mediado por la actividad antioxidante de este extracto y la modulación en los niveles séricos de triglicéridos.

Inflammatory markers in relation to body composition, physical activity and assessment of nutritional status of the adolescents.

INTRODUCTION: The evaluation of inflammatory markers during adolescence can monitor different stages and manifestation of chronic diseases in adulthood. The control of the subclinical inflammation process through changes in lifestyle, especially in the practice of physical activity and dietary education can mitigate the effects of risk factors that trigger the process of atherosclerosis. OBJECTIVE: To do a critical review regarding inflammatory markers as a risk factor of cardiovascular disease in relation to body composition, physical activity and assessment of nutritional status of adolescents. METHODS: A literature review was performed in the following electronic databases: PUBMED, SCIELO and CONCHRANE COLLECTION. The following associated terms were used "inflammation AND cardiovascular diseases AND nutritional status OR body composition OR physical activity". There were topics created for the discussion of subjects: obesity and risk factors for cardiovascular disease during adolescence; expression of inflammatory markers in adolescence; development of cardiovascular disease with inflammatory markers, and finally, inflammatory markers, physical activity and nutritional evaluation. RESULTS: It was observed that the inflammatory markers may manifest in adolescence and be related to risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Physical activity and nutritional evaluation featured as non-pharmacological measures to control the incidence of inflammatory markers and cardiovascular risk factor. CONCLUSIONS: Intervention studies may clarify how the adoption of a more proper lifestyle can influence the inflammatory process.

Introducción: La evaluación de los marcadores inflamatorios en la adolescencia puede monitorear diferentes etapas y manifestación de las enfermedades crónicas en la edad adulta. El control del proceso de inflamación subclínica mediante cambios en el estilo de vida, especialmente en la práctica de la actividad física y la educación dietética puede mitigar los efectos de los factores de riesgo que desencadenan el proceso de la aterosclerosis. Objetivo: Hacer una revisión crítica sobre los marcadores inflamatorios como un factor de riesgo de enfermedad cardiovascular (ECV) en relación con la composición corporal, la actividad física y la evaluación del estado nutricional de los adolescentes. Métodos: Una revisión de la literatura se realizó en las siguientes bases de datos electrónicas: PUBMED, SCIELO y COLECCIÓN CONCHRANE. Los siguientes términos asociados se utilizaron "composición de la inflamación y las enfermedades cardiovasculares y el estado nutricional, organismo o la actividad física". Había temas creados para la discusión de la materia: factores de obesidad y riesgo de enfermedad cardiovascular en la adolescencia; expresión de marcadores inflamatorios en la adolescencia; desarrollo de la enfermedad cardiovascular con marcadores inflamatorios y, por último, los marcadores de inflamación, la actividad física y la evaluación nutricional. Resultados: Se observó que los marcadores inflamatorios pueden manifestarse en la adolescencia y se relaciona con factores de riesgo de enfermedades cardiovasculares. La actividad física y la evaluación nutricional ofrecida como medidas no farmacológicas para el control de la incidencia de los marcadores inflamatorios y factores de riesgo cardiovascular. Conclusiones: Los estudios de intervención pueden aclarar cómo la adopción de un estilo de vida más adecuada puede influir en el proceso inflamatorio.

Intestinal microbiota and probiotics in celiac disease.

Celiac disease (CD) is a common chronic autoimmune enteropathy caused by gluten intake. To date, the only therapy for CD is the complete exclusion of dietary sources of grains and any food containing gluten. It has been hypothesized that the intestinal microbiota is somehow involved in CD. For this reason, probiotics are appearing as an interesting adjuvant in the dietetic management of CD. This review aims to discuss the characteristics of the microbiota in CD subjects and the use of probiotics as a novel therapy for CD. Comparisons between children with CD and controls show that their microbiota profiles differ; the former have fewer lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. Specific probiotics have been found to digest or alter gluten polypeptides. It has also been demonstrated that some bacterial species belonging to the genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium exert protective properties on epithelial cells from damage caused by gliadin.

Evaluation of the subchronic toxicity of kefir by oral administration in Wistar rats.

INTRODUCTION: Kefir is obtained by fermentation of milk with complex microbial populations present in kefir grains. Several health-promoting benefits have been attributed to kefir consumption. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this work was to conduct a subchronic toxicity study, offering the rats normal or high-doses of kefir and evaluating growth, hematology and blood chemistry, as well as assessing bacterial translocation and the integrity of the intestinal mucosa of animals. METHODS: Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups (n = 6/group): control group received 0.7 mL of water, kefir group received 0.7 mL/day of kefir, (normodose), and Hkefir group received 3.5 mL/day of kefir (fivefold higher dose). Feeding was carried out by gavage. The animals were housed in individual cages and maintained under standard conditions for 4 weeks. RESULTS: The normodose and high-dose of kefir supplementation did not harm the animals since growth, hematology and blood chemistry in rats, as well as the potential pathogenicity in tissues were within normal limits, demonstrating that consumption of normodose and highdose of kefir are safe. In addition, administration of the normodose of kefir reduced cholesterol levels and improved the intestinal mucosa of the rats. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate that the consumption of kefir is safe. Importantly, while damages are not seen for the high-dose, the normodose consumption is recommended due to the pronounced beneficial effects, as safety is concerned.

Introducción: El kéfir es obtenido por fermentación de la leche con una población microbiana compleja presente en sus granos. Al consumo de kéfir se le atribuyen múltiples efectos beneficiosos sobre la salud. Objetivo: Evaluar la toxicidad subcrónica del kéfir en ratas Wistar, administrado por vía oral en dosis normal (normodosis) y sobredosis. Se evaluaron además, los parámetros de peso corporal, hematología, química sanguínea, translocación bacteriana e integridad de la mucosa intestinal. Métodos: Se conformaron tres grupos de seis animales de manera aleatoria: grupo control, recibió 0,7 mL de agua; grupo kéfir recibió 0,7 mL/día de kéfir (normodosis) y grupo Hkéfir recibió 3,5 mL/día de kéfir (dosis cinco veces superior). La administración se llevó a cabo mediante sonda. Los animales se alojaron individualmente, y se mantuvieron bajo las mismas condiciones de manejo y alimentación durante 4 semanas. Resultados: La administración de kéfir en dosis normal y sobredosis no afectó los parámetros evaluados en los animales, el peso corporal, indicadores hematológicos, de química sanguínea, y la patogenicidad potencial en los tejidos se encontraron dentro de límites normales, lo que demostró que el consumo de kéfir en dosis normal y sobredosis es seguro. Además, se evidenció que la administración de normodosis de kéfir redujo los niveles de colesterol y mejoró la mucosa intestinal de las ratas. Conclusión: Se demostró que el consumo de kéfir es seguro. Destacar que, la administración de sobredosis no evidenció daños, no obstante, se recomienda el consumo de normodosis, debido a los marcados efectos beneficiosos y de seguridad.

Intestinal permeability measurements: general aspects and possible pitfalls.

INTRODUCTION: Disturbances of the gut barrier function have been related to a variety of diseases, including intestinal and extra-intestinal diseases. The intestinal permeability tests are considered useful tools for evaluating disease severity and to follow-up patients after a therapeutic intervention and indirectly assess barrier function. OBJECTIVE: The aims of this review were to highlight the possible factors underlying higher intestinal permeability and the clinical conditions that have been associated with this in different age range; and also provide some insight into methodological aspects. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Abnormal regulation of tight junction function is the main cause of altered intestinal barrier. The impaired barrier function results in higher permeation rates of administered probes through the intestinal mucosa. Lactulose and mannitol are one of the most commonly used probes. The innocuousness and easiness of intestinal permeability tests can be explored to expand the knowledge about the clinical situations in which intestinal barrier dysfunction can be an important feature. Many factors may influence the results of the test. Researchers and healthcare professionals should try to circumvent the possible pitfalls of the intestinal permeability tests to produce consistent evidences. The use of others markers of intestinal physiology may also contribute to understand the role of barrier function in different diseases.

Introducción: Alteraciones funcionales de la barrera intestinal se han relacionado con una variedad de enfermedades intestinales y también con enfermedades no intestinales. Las pruebas de permeabilidad intestinal son consideradas herramientas útiles para evaluar la gravedad de la enfermedad para el posterior seguimiento de los pacientes después de una intervención terapéutica. Objetivo: El objeto de esta revisión ha sido destacar los posibles factores que pueden estar asociados a una mayor permeabilidad intestinal y revisar condiciones clínicas que han sido asociadas en individuos de diferentes edades. También revisar ciertos aspectos metodológicos de las pruebas de permeabilidad intestinal. Resultados y discusión: Las uniones estrechas entre los enterocitos son las principales estructuras encargadas de la regulación de la barrera intestinal. Una alteración de éstas, resulta en una deficiencia en la permeabilidad intestinal y una mayor penetración de las sustancias marcadoras de permeabilidad intestinal. La lactulosa y el manitol son las sustancias marcadoras más utilizadas. La inocuidad y facilidad de los test de permeabilidad han sido de ayuda para explorar y ampliar el conocimiento de muchas condiciones clínicas en las que la disfunción de la barrera intestinal ha sido un sello distintivo. Muchos factores pueden influir en los resultados de los test de permeabilidad. Sin embargo, los investigadores y los clínicos han de tratar de eludir los posibles inconvenientes de las pruebas de permeabilidad intestinal para poder producir evidencias más consistentes. El uso de otras sustancias marcadoras de la fisiología intestinal también puede contribuir a comprender mejor el papel de la barrera intestinal en diferentes enfermedades.

Morphometric analysis of small intestine of BALB/c mice in models developed for food allergy study.

Although some animal models of food allergy in have already have been described, none of them uses the allergen in the animals' diet. This work describes the comparison between two developed models of food allergy in BALB/c mice, based in the administration of the allergen in the diet or by intragastric way. The experiment last for 28 days and the animals had been sensitized by means of subcutaneous injection in 1st and 14th days with in natura extract milk, bovine extract meat or frog extract meat. The experimental model that uses the allergen in the unbroken form presented morphometric alterations when compared with the one that used the heat treat allergen. It was noticed the existence of some more resistant proteins than others related to the denaturation, once compared the results of the two models; the differences had been more prominent for the milk and frog allergens. These results confirm the epidemiologic data of allergy incidence in the world's population.

Aunque algunos modelos animales para estudio in vivo de alergia alimentaria hayan sido descriptos, ninguno de ellos utiliza el alergeno en la dieta de los animales. Este trabajo describe la comparación entre dos modelos experimentales de alergia alimentaria desarrollados en los ratones BALB/c, inducida por la administración del alergeno en la dieta o por la vía intragastrica. El experimento fue desarrollado por un período de 28 días y los animales fueron sensibilizados por inyección subcutánea en el 1º y 14º días con extracto de leche in natura, extracto de carne de buey o extracto de carne de rana. El modelo experimental que recibió el alergeno intacto presentó las alteraciones morfométricas más evidentes cuando fueron comparadas con los que recibió el alergeno tratado térmicamente. Se evidenció la presencia de proteínas más resistentes que otras en lo que se refiere a la desnaturación, una vez que cuando fueron comparados los dos modelos, las diferencias fueron más claras para los alergenos de la leche y de la carne de rana. Estos resultados confirman los datos epidemiologicos de incidencia de alergia en la población mundial.

Prácticas dietéticas de los ciclistas de montaña brasileños antes y durante el entrenamiento y la competición / Dietary practices of Brazilian mountain bikers before and during training and competition

Background: The quality of the consumed diet is important for the improvement in performance during training and the achievement of positive results on competitions. The objective of study was to investigate the breakfast practices, and nutritional strategies used before and during training and competition of cyclists participating in the biggest mountain biking competition of Brazil. Methods: The participants (n = 146) were asked to complete a questionnaire during the distribution of kits on the day before the competition. The questionnaire included 13 questions about the participants’ characteristics, pre-training and pre-competition usual breakfast and meal consumption, and systemic or gastrointestinal symptoms during exercise. All statistical analyses were conducted using Sigma Stat 3.1 software. Results: 97.54% of participants consumed breakfast pre-training, while all participants consumed a pre-competition breakfast. After the analyses, banana and bread were the most consumed foods for pre-training and competition breakfast. Fort-two percent and 58 % of the participants consumed some supplement during the morning of the training and competition, respectively. Most participants indicated the consumption of some form of supplement during training (88.35%) and competition (97.25%). About 30% and 54% used three or more types of energy replenishment strategies during the training and the competition, respectively. 86% of the participants reported some form of adverse symptom during the training or race. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that most of the mountain bikers interviewed consumed breakfast before exercise, although most of the foods chosen for breakfast were not appropriate for a pre-exercise meal. Moreover, these cyclists had a high ingestion of supplements before and during exercise, often being used as substitutes for food. The information obtained about these supplements was provided by unreliable sources in 43% of athletes. It is also suggested that these athletes should be better informed about risks and benefits of supplements use (AU)

Introducción: La calidad de la dieta es importante para la mejora del rendimiento tanto a la hora de entrenar como para obtener el logro de resultados positivos en competiciones. El objetivo del estudio fue investigar las prácticas dietéticas en el desayuno, y las estrategias nutritivas usadas antes y durante el entrenamiento y la competición en ciclistas de montaña que participan en la mayor prueba de ese tipo en Brasil. Metodología: Los participantes (n = 146) fueron reclutados para completar una encuesta durante la recogida de materiales de identificación de los equipos en el día previo a la competición. La encuesta incluyó 13 preguntas sobre sus conductas nutricionales, pre-entrenamiento y pre-competición sobre el desayuno usual y consumo de la comida, síntomas sistémicoso gastrointestinales durante el ejercicio. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó el programa Sigma Stat 3.1. Resultados: Un 97,54% del total aseguraron tomar el desayuno antes del entrenamiento, y todos los participantes desayunaron antes de la competición. Después de los análisis, el plátano y pan estaban en la mayoría de las comidas pre-entrenamiento y competición. 42% y 58% de los participantes consumieron algún suplemento por la mañana antes del entrenamiento y competición, respectivamente. La mayoría de los participantes indicó el consumo de algún tipo de suplemento durante el entrenamiento (88,35%) y competición (97,25%). Aproximadamente, 30 y 54% usaron tres o más tipos de estrategias para reponer energía durante el entrenamiento y la competición, respectivamente. Un total de 86% de los participantes informaron haber tenido algún síntoma adverso durante el entrenamiento o competición. Conclusiones: Se demostró que la mayoría de los ciclistas realizan algún desayuno antes del ejercicio, aunque la mayoría de los alimentos escogidos no eran apropiados para una comida pre-ejercicio. Los ciclistas tenían una ingestión alta de suplementos antes y durante el ejercicio, usándose a menudo como sustitutivo de la comida. La información obtenida sobre estos suplementos fue proporcionada por las fuentes no fiables en 43% de los deportistas. También se sugiere que estos atletas se informen bien sobre los riesgos y beneficios del consumo de suplementos (AU)