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BACKGROUND: Multidrug‐resistant bacteria in humans have prompted the search for alternative solutions derived from herbal medicines that can substitute antibiotics in livestock production. Thus, the goal of this study was to evaluate the phytogenic properties of Marrubium vulgare infusion (MVI) on weaned pigs. Thirty animals were randomly divided into five groups of six animals, each receiving a physiological solution, clenbuterol and the infusion extract at doses of 0.01 (MVI 1%), 0.1 (MVI 10%) and 0.2 (MVI 20%) mg kg−1 for 28 days. Biochemical parameters and the liquid chromatographic–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometric (LC‐ESI‐MS) chemical profiles of the infusion extract and animal serum were studied. RESULTS: The doses MVI 1 and 10% led to weight gain higher than the controls. No significant changes were noted in the biochemical parameters including erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume and others. Evaluation of enzymatic levels in blood revealed no significant changes. LC‐ESI‐MS data of MVI showed the presence of 34 secondary metabolites, and successive chromatographic purification of MVI yielded marrubiin and apigenin as major components. LC‐ESI‐MS data of animal serum showed the presence of a diterpene, a flavonoid and diverse cholic acid derivatives. CONCLUSION: Results indicated the doses MVI 1 and 10% promote weight gain with no significant alterations in blood biochemicals, and liver and kidney function. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition from pregnancy to lactation is critical in dairy cows. Among others, dairy cows experience a metabolic stress due to a large change in glucose and lipid metabolism. Recent studies revealed that bile acids (BA), other than being involved in both the emulsification and solubilization of fats during intestinal absorption, can also affect the metabolism of glucose and lipids, both directly or indirectly by affecting the gut microbiota. Thus, we used untargeted and targeted metabolomics and 16S rRNA gene sequencing approaches to investigate the concentration of plasma metabolites and BA, the composition of the rectum microbial community, and assess their interaction in transition dairy cows. In Experiment 1, we investigated BA and other blood parameters and gut microbiota in dairy cows without clinical diseases during the transition period, which can be seen as well adapted to the challenge of changed glucose and lipid metabolism. As expected, we detected an increased plasma concentrations of BHB and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) but decreased concentrations of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides (TG). Untargeted metabolomic analysis of the plasma revealed primary BA biosynthesis was one of the affected pathways, and was consistent with the increased concentration of BA in the plasma. A correlation approach revealed a complex association between BA and microbiota with the host plasma concentration of glucose and lipid metabolites. Among BA, chenodeoxycholic acid derivates such as glycolithocholic acid, taurolithocholic acid, lithocholic acid, taurochenodeoxycholic acid, and taurodeoxycholic acid were the main hub nodes connecting microbe and blood metabolites (such as glucose, TG, and NEFA). In Experiment 2, we investigated early postpartum dairy cows with or without hyperketonemia (HPK). As expected, HPK cows had increased concentration of NEFA and decreased concentrations of glucose and triglycerides. The untargeted metabolomic analysis of the plasma revealed that primary BA biosynthesis was also one of the affected pathways. Even though the BA concentration was similar among the 2 groups, the profiles of taurine-conjugated BA changed significantly. A correlation analysis also revealed an association between BA and microbiota with the concentration in plasma of glucose and lipid metabolites (such as BHB). Among BA, cholic acid and its derivates such as taurocholic acid, tauro α-muricholic acid, and taurodeoxycholic acid were the main hub nodes connecting microbe and blood metabolites. Our results indicated an association between BA, intestinal microbe, and glucose and lipid metabolism in transition dairy cows. These findings provide new insight into the adaptation mechanisms of dairy cows during the transition period. The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a novel water treatment agent, can be used for disinfection, water quality adjustment, and disease prevention, while excessive H2O2 can injure farm animals, even leading to death. Hydrogen peroxide is a recommended disinfectant and bactericide for treating gill diseases and vibriosis in the greenfin horse-faced filefish Thamnaconus septentrionalis. However, its cumulative effect, toxic molecular mechanism and relevant signal transduction/metabolic networks in marine fishes are largely unknown. Results: We employed a multi-omics approach to investigate the detrimental effects of 50 mg/L H2O2 exposure (2 h/d) on filefish for 2 d, 4 d, and 6 d. Transcriptome sequencing showed that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were mainly classified into functions such as signal transduction, nervous system, liver and bile acid metabolism, energy metabolism, cell adhesion and communication, inflammation and immune response. Metabolomic analysis found that the significantly changed metabolites (SCMs) were involved in phenylalanine metabolism, inflammatory mediator regulation, linoleic acid metabolism, and necroptosis. The main SCMs were cholic acid, carnitine C12:1, dimethylmalonic acid, glutamic acid, L-lactic acid, shikimic acid, 2-methylsuccinic acid, and others. Moreover, H2O2-induced oxidative stress also disturbs the balance of the gut microbiota, altering the microbial composition and affecting digestive processes. Conclusions: Integrated multiomics analysis revealed that H2O2-induced detrimental impacts include mucosal damage, inflammatory and immune responses, altered energy metabolism, and gut microbiota disorders. These findings offer novel insights into the harmful effects and signal transduction/metabolic pathways triggered by H2O2 exposure in marine fishes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the major complication of diabetes concomitant with gut dysbiosis and glycometabolic disorder, which are strongly associated with bile acid (BA) metabolism. Yet studies investigating the BA metabolism involving in DKD pathogenesis are limited. This study aimed to explore the metabolomic profiling of BAs in DKD and analyze its association with DKD progression. Methods: An ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was established to quantify BAs in the plasma, fecal and urine samples of patients with DKD or T2DM and healthy individuals (n = 30 for each group). The key BAs associated with DKD were identified by orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Polynomial regression and Pearson's correlation analyses were performed to assess the correlation between the key BAs and the clinical indicators reflecting DKD progression. Results: Metabolomic profiling of 50 kinds of BAs presented the markedly step-wise alterations of BAs in plasma and feces as well as the little in urine of patients with DKD. Eight kinds of BAs in the plasma, eight kinds in the feces and three kinds in the urine were abnormally expressed, accompanying with the increased conjugated/unconjugated ratios of cholic acid, deoxycholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid and hyocholic acid in the plasma, and of cholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid in the feces. Moreover, the increased plasma level of glycochenodeoxycholic acid, and the increased fecal levels of glycolithocholic acid, 7-ketodeoxycholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid-3-β-D-glucuronide are strongly correlated with the clinical indicators reflecting DKD progression, including eGFR, 24 h urinary protein and 24 h urinary microalbumin. Conclusions: Our study for the first time disclosed the specific alterations of BA metabolism reflecting the step-wise progression of DKD, providing the basis for early identification and therapeutical strategies for DKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three iridium(III) triazolato complexes of the general formula [Ir(triazolatoR,R')(ppy)(terpy)]PF6 with ppy=2‐phenylpyridine and terpy=2,2':6',2"‐terpyridine were efficiently prepared by iClick reaction of [Ir(N3)(ppy)(terpy)]PF6, with alkynes and alkynones, which allowed facile introduction of biological carriers such as biotin and cholic acid. In contrast to the precursor azido complex, which decomposed upon photoexcitation on a very short time scale, the triazolato complexes were stable in solution for up to 48 h. They emit in the spectral region around 540 nm with a quantum yield of 15–35 % in aerated acetonitrile solution and exhibit low cytotoxicity with IC50 values >50 μM for most complexes in L929 and HeLa cells, demonstrating their high suitability as luminescent probes. Cell uptake studies with confocal luminescence microscopy in prokaryotic Gram‐positive S. aureus and Gram‐negative E. coli bacteria as well as eukaryotic mammalian L929 and HeLa cells showed significant uptake in particular of the cholic acid conjugates iridium(III) moiety and distinct intracellular distribution modulated by the nature of the peripheral functional groups that can easily be modified by the iClick reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bile salt hydrolases (BSHs) are significant constituents of animal microbiomes. An evolving appreciation of their roles in health and disease has established them as targets of pharmacological inhibition. These bacterial enzymes belong to the N-terminal nucleophile superfamily and are best known to catalyze the deconjugation of glycine or taurine from bile salts to release bile acid substrates for transformation and or metabolism in the gastrointestinal tract. Here, we identify and describe the BSH from a common member of the Plains bison microbiome, Arthrobacter citreus (BSHAc). Steady-state kinetic analyses demonstrated that BSHAc is a broad-spectrum hydrolase with a preference for glycine-conjugates and deoxycholic acid (DCA). Second-order rate constants (kcat/KM) for BSHAc-catalyzed reactions of relevant bile salts--glyco- and tauro-conjugates of cholic acid and DCA--varied by -30-fold and measured between 1.4 × 105 and 4.3 × 106 M-1s-1. Interestingly, a pan-BSH inhibitor named AAA-10 acted as a slow irreversible inhibitor of BSHAc with a rate of inactivation (kinact) of -2 h-1 and a second order rate constant (kinact/KI) of -24 M-1s-1 for the process. Structural characterization of BSHAc reacted with AAA-10 showed covalent modification of the N-terminal cysteine nucleophile, providing molecular details for an enzyme-stabilized product formed from this mechanism-based inhibitor's a-fluoromethyl ketone warhead. Structural comparison of the BSHs and BSH:inhibitor complexes highlighted the plasticity of the steroid-binding site, including a flexible loop that is variable across well-studied BSHs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dysregulation of bile acids (BAs), as important signalling molecules in regulating lipid and glucose metabolism, contributes to the development of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, static BA profiles during fasting may obscure certain pathogenetic aspects. In this study, we investigate the dynamic alterations of BAs in response to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) among children with NAFLD. Methods: We recruited 230 subjects, including children with overweight/obesity, or complicated with NAFLD, and healthy controls. Serum BAs, 7‐hydroxy‐4‐cholesten‐3‐one (C4) and fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) were quantified during OGTT. Clinical markers related to liver function, lipid metabolism and glucose metabolism were assessed at baseline or during OGTT. Findings: Conjugated BAs increased while unconjugated ones decreased after glucose uptake. Most BAs were blunted in response to glucose in NAFLD (p >.05); only glycine and taurine‐conjugated chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and cholic acid (CA) were responsive (p <.05). Primary BAs were significantly increased while secondary BAs were decreased in NAFLD. C4 and FGF19 were significantly increased while their ratio FGF19/C4 ratio was decreased in NAFLD. The dynamic pattern of CDCA and taurine‐conjugated hyocholic acid (THCA) species was closely correlated with glucose (correlation coefficient r =.175 and −.233, p <.05), insulin (r =.327 and −.236, p <.05) and c‐peptide (r =.318 and −.238, p <.05). Among which, CDCA was positively associated with liver fat content in NAFLD (r =.438, p <.05). Additionally, glycochenodeoxycholic acid (GCDCA), CDCA and THCA were potential biomarkers to discriminate paediatric NAFLD from healthy controls and children with obesity. Interpretation: This study provides novel insights into the dynamics of BAs during OGTT in paediatric NAFLD. The observed variations in CDCA and HCA species were associated with liver dysfunction, dyslipidaemia and dysglycaemia, highlighting their potential roles as promising diagnostic and therapeutic targets in NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Bile acids (BA) play a crucial role not only in lipid digestion but also in the regulation of overall energy homeostasis, including glucose and lipid metabolism. The aim of this study was to investigate BA profiles and mRNA expression of BA-related genes in the liver of high versus normal body condition in dairy cows. We hypothesized that body condition and the transition from gestation to lactation affect hepatic BA concentrations as well as the mRNA abundance of BA-related receptors, regulatory enzymes, and transporters. Therefore, we analyzed BA in the liver as well as the mRNA abundance of BA-related synthesizing enzymes, transporters, and receptors in the liver during the transition period in cows with different body conditions around calving. In a previously established animal model, 38 German Holstein cows were divided into groups with high body condition score (HBCS; n = 19) or normal body condition score (NBCS; n = 19) based on BCS and backfat thickness (BFT). Cows were fed diets aimed at achieving the targeted differences in BCS and BFT (NBCS: BCS <3.5, BFT <1.2 cm; HBCS: BCS >3.75, BFT >1.4 cm) until they were dried off at wk 7 before parturition. Both groups were fed identical diets during the dry period and subsequent lactation. Liver biopsies were taken at wk −7, 1, 3, and 12 relative to parturition. For BA measurement, a targeted metabolomics approach with liquid chromatography electrospray ionization MS/MS was used to analyze BA in the liver. The mRNA abundance of targeted genes related to BA synthesizing enzymes, transporters, and receptors in the liver was analyzed using microfluidic quantitative PCR. In total, we could detect 14 BA in the liver: 6 primary and 8 secondary BA, with glycocholic acid (GCA) being the most abundant one. The increase of glycine-conjugated BA after parturition, in parallel to increasing serum glycine concentrations may originate from an enhanced mobilization of muscle protein to meet the high nutritional requirements in early lactating cows. Higher DMI in NBCS cows compared with HBCS cows was associated with higher liver BA concentrations such as GCA, deoxycholic acid, and cholic acid. The mRNA abundance of BA-related enzymes measured herein suggests the dominance of the alternative signaling pathway in the liver of HBCS cows. Overall, BA profiles and BA metabolism in the liver depend on both, the body condition and lactation-induced effects in periparturient dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the prevalence of sedentary lifestyles and high-cholesterol diets in modern societies, developed nations have observed an increase in cholesterol-associated gallstones with advancing age. This study aims to address the issue of cholesterol gallstones, a significant cause of gastrointestinal disorders globally. Specifically, it evaluates whether a combination of an methanolic extract of Macrotyloma uniflorum and an ethanolic extract of Camellia sinensis, both known for their cholesterol-lowering, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant properties, can mitigate induction of gallstones in mice through a lithogenic diet. Mice were subjected to a lithogenic diet containing 1% cholesterol and 0.5% cholic acid for four weeks to induce cholesterol supersaturation in gallbladder bile, thereby promoting cholesterol gallstone formation. Cholelithiasis was assessed using eight-grade scale and biochemical parameters including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were measured in blood and liver tissue and compared to normal controls. Bile profile will be assessed for its main components mainly cholesterol, bile acids, and phospholipids. Histopathological examination of liver and gallbladder tissues was also conducted. Mice administered a 300 mg/kg dose of the extract combination alongside the lithogenic diet exhibited improvements across all six scale parameters and demonstrated reduced cholesterol levels in bile relative to the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Altered patterns of bile acids (BAs) are frequently present in liver fibrosis, and BAs function as signaling molecules to initiate inflammatory responses. Silybin meglumine (SLB-M) is widely used in treating various liver diseases including liver fibrosis. However, research on its effects on bile acid (BA) metabolism is limited. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of SLB-M on liver fibrosis and BA metabolism in a CCl4-induced murine model. Methods: A murine liver fibrosis model was induced by CCl4. Fibrosis was evaluated using HE, picrosirius red, and Masson's trichrome staining. Liver function was assessed by serum and hepatic biochemical markers. Bile acid (BA) metabolism was analyzed using LC-MS/MS. Bioinformatics analyses, including PPI network, GO, and KEGG pathway analyses, were employed to explore molecular mechanisms. Gene expression alterations in liver tissue were examined via qRT-PCR. Results: SLB-M treatment resulted in significant histological improvements in liver tissue, reducing collagen deposition and restoring liver architecture. Biochemically, SLB-M not only normalized serum liver enzyme levels (ALT, AST, TBA, and GGT) but also mitigated disruptions in both systemic and hepatic BA metabolism by increased unconjugated BAs like cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid but decreased conjugated BAs including taurocholic acid and taurodeoxycholic acid, compared to that in CCl4-induced murine model. Notably, SLB-M efficiently improved the imbalance of BA homeostasis in liver caused by CCl4 via activating Farnesoid X receptor. Conclusions: These findings underscore SLB-M decreased inflammatory response, reconstructed BA homeostasis possibly by regulating key pathways, and gene expressions in BA metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioconjugation is one of the most promising strategies to improve drug delivery, especially in cancer therapy. Biomolecules such as bile acids (BAs) have been intensively explored as carriers, due to their peculiar physicochemical properties and biocompatibility. BAs trafficking is regulated by intracellular lipid-binding proteins and their transport in the liver can be studied using chicken liver Bile Acid-Binding Proteins (cL-BABPs) as a reference model. Therefore, we conceived the idea of developing a BA-conjugate with Mirin, an exonuclease inhibitor of Mre11 endowed with different anticancer activities, to direct its transport to the liver. Following computational analysis of various BAs in complex with cL-BABP, we identified cholic acid (CA) as the most promising candidate as carrier, leading to the synthesis of a novel bioconjugate named CA-M11. As predicted by computational data and confirmed by X-ray crystallographic studies, CA-M11 was able to accommodate into the binding pocket of BABP. Hence, it can enter BAs trafficking in the hepatic compartment and here release Mirin. The effect of CA-M11, evaluated in combination with varying concentrations of Doxorubicin on HepG2 cell line, demonstrated a significant increase in cell mortality compared to the use of the cytotoxic drug or Mirin alone, thus highlighting chemo-sensitizing properties. The promising results regarding plasma stability for CA-M11 validate its potential as a valuable agent or adjuvant for hepatic cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: To investigate the mechanism of hyperplasia of mammary gland (HMG) and the potential differential metabolites in rats based on the serum metabolomics assessment by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). METHODS: Twelve specific-pathogen-free (SPF)-grade female Wistar rats were randomly and equally assigned to the normal and model groups. The model group received intramuscular injections of estradiol benzoate (0. 5 mg⋅kg-1⋅d-1) for 21 d, followed by intramuscular injections of progesterone (4 mg⋅kg-1⋅d-1) for 7 d for preparing the HMG model. The body weight and nipple diameter of the rats were measured, and the histopathological changes in their mammary gland were monitored. After the successful establishment of the model, rat serum was collected for LC-MS metabolomics analysis, the differential metabolites in the serum of the normal and model group rats were analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and the metabolic pathway analysis of differential markers through the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) open database was performed. RESULTS: Compared with the normal rats in the control group, no significant change was observed in the body weight (P> 0. 05), the diameter of the nipple was significantly enlarged (P<0. 01), the hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining section of the mammary gland displayed typical HMG morphology, which together indicated that the modeling was successful. The metabolic patterns of the serum samples from both groups were significantly different, and 30 potentially differential metabolites were identified based on the variable importance in projection (VIP)≥2. 0 and P<0. 05, mainly including 3-dehydro-cholic acid, alcoholic acid, glycocholate-3-sulfate, glycine-deoxycholan-3-sulfate, glycine-deoxycholan-3-sulfate, 3a, 7b, and 12a trihydroxycholan-3-sulfate, cholic acid, and glycolic acid. Further receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that the area under the curve (AUC) of the 13 metabolites was >0. 9, implying the possible high sensitivity for the diagnosis of HMG. According to the KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, most of the differential metabolites were mainly concentrated in aldosterone synthesis and secretion, sphingomyelin metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, apoptosis and cholesterol metabolism. CONCLUSION: The pathogenesis of estrogen- and progesterone-induced HMG in rats may be related to the altered bile acids, their derivatives metabolism, and the lipid metabolism pathways. The 13 differential metabolites identified by serum metabolomics with high sensitivity may thus provide a reference for the diagnosis of HMG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bile acids (BAs) are the main endogenous modulators of the composition and metabolic activity of the intestinal microbiota. In the present work, the effect of conjugated (glycodeoxycholic, glycocholic, taurodeoxycholic, taurocholic acids) and free BAs [cholic acid (CA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA)] on the survival, biological molecules, and structural and surface properties of two potential probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was evaluated. For this, viability assays, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and zeta potential (ZP) measurements were employed. Our results evidenced that free BAs were more toxic than conjugates, with CA being significantly more harmful than deoxycholic acid (DCA). RAMAN studies show that BAs modify the bands corresponding to proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and DNA. SEM showed that BAs cause surface distortions with depressions and fold formation, as well as incomplete cell division. DCA was the one that least altered the ZP of bacteria when compared to CA and taurodeoxycholic acid, with gradual changes towards more positive values. In general, the magnitude of these effects was different according to the BA and its concentration, being more evident in the presence of CA, even at low concentrations, which would explain its greater inhibitory effect. This work provides solid evidence on the effects of BAs on LAB that will allow for the development of strategies by which to modulate the composition of the microbiota positively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory bowel disease is defined by inflammation and immune dysregulation. This study investigated the effects of Gα13 liver-specific knockout (LKO) on proximal and distal colons of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced mice in conjunction with a high-fat diet (HFD). HFD improved body weight gain and disease activity index scores. Gα13LKO exerted no improvement. In the proximal colon, HFD augmented the DSS effect on Il6, which was not observed in Gα13LKO mice. In the distal colon, HFD plus DSS oppositely fortified an increase in Tnfa and Cxcl10 mRNA in Gα13LKO but not WT. Il6 levels remained unchanged. Bioinformatic approaches using Gα13LKO livers displayed bile acid and cholesterol metabolism-related gene sets. Cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid levels were increased in the liver of mice treated with DSS, which was reversed by Gα13LKO. Notably, mice treated with DSS showed a reduction in hepatic ABCB11, CYP7B1, CYP7A1, and CYP8B1, which was reversed by Gα13LKO. Overall, feeding HFD augments the effect of DSS on Il6 in the proximal colon of WT, but not Gα13LKO mice, and enhances DSS effect on Tnfa and Cxcl10 in the distal colon of Gα13LKO mice, suggesting site-specific changes in the inflammatory cytokines, potentially resulting from changes in BA synthesis and excretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High-fat diets (HFD) are known to enhance feed conversion ratio in broiler chickens, yet they can also result in hepatic fat accumulation. Bile acids (BAs) and gut microbiota also play key roles in the formation of fatty liver. In this study, our objective was to elucidate the mechanisms through which BA supplementation reduces hepatic fat deposition in broiler chickens, with a focus on the involvement of gut microbiota and liver BA composition. Results: Newly hatched broiler chickens were allocated to either a low-fat diet (LFD) or HFD, supplemented with or without BAs, and subsequently assessed their impacts on gut microbiota, hepatic lipid metabolism, and hepatic BA composition. Our findings showed that BA supplementation significantly reduced plasma and liver tissue triglyceride (TG) levels in 42-day-old broiler chickens (P < 0.05), concurrently with a significant decrease in the expression levels of fatty acid synthase (FAS) in liver tissue (P < 0.05). These results suggest that BA supplementation effectively diminishes hepatic fat deposition. Under the LFD, BAs supplementation increased the BA content and ratio of Non 12-OH BAs/12-OH BAs in the liver and increased the Akkermansia abundance in cecum. Under the HFD, BA supplementation decreased the BAs and increased the relative abundances of chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and cholic acid (CA) in hepatic tissue, while the relative abundances of Bacteroides were dramatically reduced and the Bifidobacterium, Escherichia, and Lactobacillus were increased in cecum. Correlation analyses showed a significant positive correlation between the Akkermansia abundance and Non 12-OH BA content under the LFD, and presented a significant negative correlation between the Bacteroides abundance and CA or CDCA content under the HFD. Conclusions: The results indicate that supplementation of BAs in both LFD and HFD may ameliorate hepatic fat deposition in broiler chickens with the involvement of differentiated microbiota–bile acid profile pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The pregnant women with intrahepatic cholestasis were at high risk of fetal distress, preterm birth and unexpected stillbirth. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) was mainly caused by disorder of bile acid metabolism, whereas the specific mechanism was obscure. Methods: We performed proteomics analysis of 10 ICP specimens and 10 placenta specimens from patients without ICP through data-independent acquisition (DIA) technique to disclose differentially expressed proteins. We executed metabolomic analysis of 30 ICP specimens and 30 placenta specimens from patients without ICP through UPLC-MS/MS to identify differentially expressed metabolites. Enrichment and correlation analysis was used to obtain the direct molecular insights of ICP development. The ICP rat models were constructed to validate pathological features. Results: The heatmap of proteomics analysis showed the top 30 up-regulated and 30 down-regulated proteins. The metabolomic analysis revealed 20 richer and 4 less abundant metabolites in ICP samples compared with placenta specimens from patients without ICP, and enrichment pathways by these metabolites included primary bile acid biosynthesis, cholesterol metabolism, bile secretion, nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, purine metabolism and metabolic pathways. Combined analysis of multiple omics results demonstrated that bile acids such as Glycohyocholic acid, Glycine deoxycholic acid, beta-Muricholic acid, Noncholic acid, cholic acid, Gamma-Mercholic Acid, alpha-Muricholic acid and Glycochenodeoxycholic Aicd were significantly associated with the expression of GLRX3, MYL1, MYH7, PGGT1B, ACTG1, SP3, LACTB2, C2CD5, APBB2, IPO9, MYH2, PPP3CC, PIN1, BLOC1S1, DNAJC7, RASAL2 and ATCN3 etc. The core protein ACAT2 was involved in lipid metabolic process and animal model showed that ACAT2 was up-regulated in placenta and liver of pregnant rats and fetal rats. The neonates had low birth weight and Safranin O-Fast green FCF staining of animal models showed that poor osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation of fetal rats. Conclusion: Multiple metabolites-alpha-Muricholic acid, beta-Muricholic acid, Glycine deoxycholic acid and Glycochenodeoxycholic Acid etc. were perfect biomarkers to predict occurrence of ICP. Bile acids were significantly associated with varieties of protein expression and these proteins were differentially expressed in ICP samples. Our study provided several biomarkers for ICP detection and potential therapeutic targets for ICP development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the synthesis of β-N-oxalyl-l-α,β-diaminopropionic acid (β-ODAP) in grass pea, a legume commonly grown in Asia and Africa. The authors present conflicting findings regarding the enzymes responsible for β-ODAP synthesis. They challenge a previous study's claim that the enzyme LsAAE3 is involved, instead proposing that LsBOS is responsible. The authors provide evidence supporting their own two-step mechanism for β-ODAP synthesis and refute the claim that LsAAE3 has evolved to repurpose its activity. Understanding the production of β-ODAP is crucial for developing grass pea cultivars without the neurotoxic compound. [Extracted from the article]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Besides their lipid-digestive role, bile acids (BA) influence overall energy homeostasis, such as glucose and lipid metabolism. We hypothesized that BA along with their receptors, regulatory enzymes, and transporters are present in subcutaneous adipose tissue (scAT). In addition, we hypothesized that their mRNA abundance varies with the body condition of dairy cows around calving. Therefore, we analyzed BA in serum and scAT as well as the mRNA abundance of BA-related enzymes, transporters, and receptors in scAT during the transition period in cows with different body conditions around calving. In a previously established animal model, 38 German Holstein cows were divided into either a high (HBCS; n = 19) or normal BCS (NBCS; n = 19) group based on their BCS and back-fat thickness (BFT). Cows were fed different diets to achieve the targeted differences in BCS and BFT (NBCS: BCS <3.5, BFT <1.2 cm; HBCS: BCS >3.75, BFT >1.4 cm) until dry-off at 7 wk antepartum. During the dry period and subsequent lactation, both groups were fed the same diets according to their energy demands. Using a targeted metabolomics approach via liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-MS /MS, BA were analyzed in serum and scAT at wk −7, 1, 3, and 12 relative to parturition. In serum, 15 BA were observed: cholic acid (CA), chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), glycocholic acid (GCA), taurocholic acid (TCA), glycochenodeoxycholic acid (GCDCA), taurochenodeoxycholic acid, deoxycholic acid (DCA), lithocholic acid, glycodeoxycholic acid (GDCA), glycolithocholic acid, taurodeoxycholic acid, taurolithocholic acid, β-muricholic acid, tauromuricholic acid (sum of α and β), and glycoursodeoxycholic acid, whereas in scAT 7 BA were detected: CA, GCA, TCA, GCDCA, taurochenodeoxycholic acid, GDCA, and taurodeoxycholic acid. In serum and scAT samples, the primary BA CA and its conjugate GCA were predominantly detected. Increasing serum concentrations of CA, CDCA, TCA, GCA, GCDCA, DCA, and β-muricholic acid with the onset of lactation might be related to the increasing DMI after parturition. Furthermore, serum concentrations of CA, CDCA, GCA, DCA, GCDCA, TCA, lithocholic acid, and GDCA were lower in HBCS cows compared with NBCS cows, concomitant with increased lipolysis in HBCS cows. The correlation between CA in serum and scAT may point to the transport of CA across cell membranes. Overall, the findings of the present study suggest a potential role of BA in lipid metabolism depending on the body condition of periparturient dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic syndrome characterized by chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and islet cell damage. The prevention of T2DM and its associated complications is an urgent public health issue that affects hundreds of millions of people globally. Numerous studies suggest that disturbances in gut metabolites are important driving forces for the pathogenesis of diabetes. However, the functions and mechanisms of action of most commensal bacteria in T2DM remain largely unknown. Methods: The quantification of bile acids (BAs) in fecal samples was performed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS/MS). The anti-diabetic effects of Bacteroides uniformis (B. uniformis) and its metabolites cholic acid (CA) and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) were assessed in T2DM mice induced by streptozocin (STZ) plus high-fat diet (HFD). Results: We found that the abundance of B. uniformis in the feces and the contents of CA and CDCA were significantly downregulated in T2DM mice. B. uniformis was diminished in diabetic individuals and this bacterium was sufficient to promote the production of BAs. Colonization of B. uniformis and intragastric gavage of CA and CDCA effectively improved the disorder of glucose and lipid metabolism in T2DM mice by inhibiting gluconeogenesis and lipolysis in the liver. CA and CDCA improved hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism by acting on the Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5)/adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway since knockdown of TGR5 minimized the benefit of CA and CDCA. Furthermore, we screened a natural product—vaccarin (VAC)—that exhibited anti-diabetic effects by promoting the growth of B. uniformis in vitro and in vivo. Gut microbiota pre-depletion abolished the favorable effects of VAC in diabetic mice. Conclusions: These data suggest that supplementation of B. uniformis may be a promising avenue to ameliorate T2DM by linking the gut and liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumption of herbal products containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) is one of the major causes for hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (HSOS), a deadly liver disease. However, the crucial metabolic variation and biomarkers which can reflect these changes remain amphibious and thus to result in a lack of effective prevention, diagnosis and treatments against this disease. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of HSOS caused by PA exposure, and to translate metabolomics-derived biomarkers to the mechanism. In present study, cholic acid species (namely, cholic acid, taurine conjugated-cholic acid, and glycine conjugated-cholic acid) were identified as the candidate biomarkers (area under the ROC curve 0.968 [95% CI 0.908–0.994], sensitivity 83.87%, specificity 96.55%) for PA-HSOS using two independent cohorts of patients with PA-HSOS. The increased primary bile acid biosynthesis and decreased liver expression of farnesoid X receptor (FXR, which is known to inhibit bile acid biosynthesis in hepatocytes) were highlighted in PA-HSOS patients. Furtherly, a murine PA-HSOS model induced by senecionine (50 mg/kg, p.o.), a hepatotoxic PA, showed increased biosynthesis of cholic acid species via inhibition of hepatic FXR-SHP singling and treatment with the FXR agonist obeticholic acid restored the cholic acid species to the normal levels and protected mice from senecionine-induced HSOS. This work elucidates that increased levels of cholic acid species can serve as diagnostic biomarkers in PA-HSOS and targeting FXR may represent a therapeutic strategy for treating PA-HSOS in clinics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide 1 analog used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, is a potential new treatment modality for bile acid (BA) diarrhea. Here, we show that administration of liraglutide significantly decreased total BAs, especially the primary BAs, including cholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, taurocholic acid, taurochenodeoxycholic acid, glycocholic acid, and β-muricholic acid, in the liver and feces. In addition, liraglutide significantly decreased tryptophan metabolites, including L-tryptophan, serotonin, 5-hydroxy indole-3-acetic acid, L-kynurenine, and xanthurenic acid, in the colon, whereas it significantly increased indole-3-propionic acid. Moreover, the administration of liraglutide remarkably decreased the expression of apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter, which mediates BA uptake across the apical brush border member in the ileum, ileal BA binding protein, and fibroblast growth factor 15 in association with decreased expression of the BA-activated nuclear receptor farnesoid X receptor and the heteromeric organic solute transporter Ostα/β, which induces BA excretion, in the ileum. Liraglutide acutely decreased body weight and blood glucose levels in association with decreases in plasma insulin and serotonin levels in food-deprived mice. These findings suggest the potential of liraglutide as a novel inhibitor of primary BAs and serotonin in the colon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Growth status improved in first 24 weeks of lumacaftor-ivacaftor for young children with cystic fibrosis (CF). • Increases in total and primary bile acids after 24 weeks lumacaftor-ivacaftor therapy. • Changes in numerous plasma fatty acids, including reduction in alpha-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid. • Medicaid status and the household environment were associated with diet quality among children with CF. Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators improve nutritional status and are of importance in achieving normal growth among younger children with CF. The study was designed to examine CFTR modulator-associated changes in nutrition status, including bile acids and fatty acids after lumacaftor/ivacaftor therapy for 24 weeks. Children 2 to 5.9 years were recruited from US and Canadian CF Centers. Eligible children were lumacaftor/ivacaftor naïve and approved to initiate therapy. Anthropometrics, diet, energy expenditure, nutrition biomarkers, pancreatic status, serum and fecal calprotectin, serum bile acids and plasma fatty acids were measured. Changes from baseline at 12 and 24 weeks were examined using mixed effects linear regression modeling. Weight-for-age z-score (WAZ) increased at 12 (0.15 ± 0.1, p = 0.01) and 24 weeks (0.23 ± 0.1, p = 0.001) from baseline following modulator therapy. Head circumference-for-age (HCZ) increased at 12 weeks compared to baseline (0.22 ± 0.1, p = 0.03) and subscapular Z score increased from baseline at 24 weeks following therapy (0.33 ± 0.1, p = 0.02). There were no changes in energy expenditure. Serum total bile acids (6.7 ± 2.0, p = 0.001), chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) (2.4 ± 1.1, p = 0.001), and cholic acid (CA) (3.5 ± 0.8, p < 0.0001) increased at 24 weeks compared to baseline. Fecal calprotectin decreased at 12 and 24 weeks compared to baseline (-463 ± 310, p = 0.03 and 566 ± 347, p = 0.047). A number of plasma fatty acids changed over the course of 24 weeks of therapy. Noteably, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) decreased at 12 and 24 weeks (-24 ± 10, p = 0.03 and -18 ± 10, p = 0.02, respectively). Overall, young children experienced favorable changes in nutritional and growth, with the exception of plasma ALA status in the first 24 weeks of lumacaftor/ivacaftor therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel cholic acid-conjugated carboplatin (CP-CA) is developed as a liver-targeting prodrug of carboplatin (CP) for liver cancer. Instead of using CP as a raw material, CP-CA was synthesized simultaneously. This paper is focused on the comparison of CP-CA and CP with respect to their pharmacokinetic (PK) and tissue distribution profiles in rats after their intravenous administration. Additionally, their uptake by human liver tumor cell Huh7 and normal human liver cell HL7702 are investigated. The inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method is applied for the determination of platinum in plasma, tissues, and cells. The PK results show that both the AUC0–t and AUC0–∞ data on Pt for CP-CA are significantly higher than those for CP (p < 0.01), indicating that the plasma exposure of CP-CA is significantly higher than that of CP. The CL1, Vd1, and Vd2 data on Pt for CP-CA are significantly lower than those for CP (p < 0.01), while the MRT0–t is significantly higher (p < 0.01), which is possibly related to a higher PPBR, and can strongly support the higher AUC0–t and AUC0–∞ of Pt for CP-CA compared to for CP. The tissue distribution results show that CP-CA is mainly distributed and accumulated in the liver after its intravenous administration to rats, revealing its liver-targeting profile. Compared to CP, CP-CA is more easily taken up by human liver cancer cells and normal human liver cells. The results suggest that CP-CA has a potential for further development as a new prodrug specific to liver cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cholic acid (CA) is a natural steroid useful in treating chronic bronchitis and cholecystitis. On the other hand, its potential impact on osteoarthritis (OA) is unknown. Objective: Using an in vitro and in vivo osteoarthritis model, we sought to assess the chondroprotective properties of CA. Methods: We employed the Cell Counting Kit-8 to measure the impact of CA on chondrocyte activity to assess the toxicity of the cells. Multiple molecular biology experimental techniques were used to investigate potential signaling pathways that CA may use to prevent inflammation and give chondrocytes protection. Furthermore, how CA affects the OA model in SpragueDawley (SD) rats was evaluated. Results: CA significantly suppressed the up-regulation of the interleukin-1 β (IL-1β), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP-13) and the downregulation of aggrecan and type II collagen A1 (COL2A) in chondrocytes treated tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Differentially expressed genes (DEG) enrichment revealed IL-17, TNF, chemokine, cytokine-cytokine receptor, toll-like receptor, and nucleotide oligomerization domain-like receptor were the primary signaling pathways. The enriched DEGs included CXCL6, CCL20, MMP3, CXCL3, CXCL11, CCL5, CXCL10, MMP9, MMP13, and CXCL2; these DEGs are involved in inflammatory responses and their expression induced by TNF-α was reversed by CA treatment. CA inhibits p65 nuclear translocation and inhibitory subunit kappa B alpha (IκBα) phosphorylation induced by TNF-α. Furthermore, CA attenuated protein expression of protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), inositol-requiring transmembrane kinase/endoribonuclease 1α (IRE1α), glucose regulatory protein 78 (GRP78), and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), and down-regulation of phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase-α (p-AMPKα) in TNF-α-treated chondrocytes. Conclusions: CA significantly ameliorated cartilage degradation in the OA rat model. CA alleviated the inflammatory response through the nuclear factor kappa B/PERK/SIRT1 axis and ameliorated cartilage degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bariatric surgery alters bile acid metabolism, which contributes to post-operative improvements in metabolic health. However, the mechanisms by which bariatric surgery alters bile acid metabolism are incompletely defined. In particular, the role of the gut microbiome in the effects of bariatric surgery on bile acid metabolism is incompletely understood. Therefore, we sought to define the changes in gut luminal bile acid composition after vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG). Methods: Bile acid profile was determined by UPLC-MS/MS in serum and gut luminal samples from VSG and sham-operated mice. Sham-operated mice were divided into two groups: one was fed ad libitum, while the other was food-restricted to match their body weight to the VSG-operated mice. Results: VSG decreased gut luminal secondary bile acids, which was driven by a decrease in gut luminal deoxycholic acid concentrations and abundance. However, gut luminal cholic acid (precursor for deoxycholic acid) concentration and abundance did not differ between groups. Therefore, the observed decrease in gut luminal deoxycholic acid abundance after VSG was not due to a reduction in substrate availability. Conclusion: VSG decreased gut luminal deoxycholic acid abundance independently of body weight, which may be driven by a decrease in gut bacterial bile acid metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of novel therapeutic agents using nanomedicine is critical in the fight against diabetes mellitus (DM). Cholic acid (CA) has shown potential in diabetes management, but its effectiveness is limited by poor solubility and stability. To overcome these challenges, CA was encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (CACNPs). The CACNPs had a negative zeta potential (ZP) of −13.6 ± 5.81 mV, which is an indication of good stability and potential for enhanced uptake by diseased cells. The average particle size (PS) measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS) was 169.8 ± 84.3 nm. The polydispersity index (PDI) was 0.220, indicating uniform particle size distribution. The drug loading capacity (DL%) of the CACNPs was 60.96 ± 0.9 %, whereas, the entrapment efficiency (EE%) was 69.19 ± 1.02 %. The MTT assay on 3 T3-L1 cells revealed a concentration-dependent effect on cell viability, with an IC50 value of 766.0 ± 0.09 µg/ml. Furthermore, CACNPs demonstrated dose-dependent enhancement of glucose uptake in differentiated adipocytes, while at 500 µg/ml, they inhibited adipocyte differentiation, suggesting a potential role in adipogenesis inhibition. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) indicated positive modulation of glucose metabolism-related genes (PI3K, GLUT4, PPARg) upon treatment with CACNPs. These findings suggest that CACNPs could serve as a novel inhibitor of adipocyte differentiation and may influence key pathways in glucose metabolism, making them promising candidates for the management of DM.

Abstract Background Increased level of serum cholic acid (CA) is often accompanied with decreased CYP2E1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, the roles of CA and CYP2E1 in hepatocarcinogenesis have not been elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the roles and the underlying mechanisms of CYP2E1 and CA in HCC cell growth. Methods The proteomic analysis of liver tumors from DEN-induced male SD rats with CA administration was used to reveal the changes of protein expression in the CA treated group. The growth of CA-treated HCC cells was examined by colony formation assays. Autophagic flux was assessed with immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy. Western blot analysis was used to examine the expression of CYP2E1, mTOR, AKT, p62, and LC3II/I. A xenograft tumor model in nude mice was used to examine the role of CYP2E1 in CA-induced hepatocellular carcinogenesis. The samples from HCC patients were used to evaluate the clinical value of CYP2E1 expression. Results CA treatment significantly increased the growth of HCC cells and promoted xenograft tumors accompanied by a decrease of CYP2E1 expression. Further studies revealed that both in vitro and in vivo, upregulated CYP2E1 expression inhibited the growth of HCC cells, blocked autophagic flux, decreased AKT phosphorylation, and increased mTOR phosphorylation. CYP2E1 was involved in CA-activated autophagy through the AKT/mTOR signaling. Finally, decreased CYP2E1 expression was observed in the tumor tissues of HCC patients and its expression level in tumors was negatively correlated with the serum level of total bile acids (TBA) and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT). Conclusions CYP2E1 downregulation contributes to CA-induced HCC development presumably through autophagy regulation. Thus, CYP2E1 may serve as a potential target for HCC drug development.

Synthesis and secretion of bile acids (BA) is a key physiological function of the liver. In pathological conditions like portosystemic shunt, hepatic insufficiency, hepatitis, or cirrhosis BA metabolism and secretion are disturbed. Quantification of total serum BA is an established diagnostic method to assess the general liver function and allows early detection of abnormalities, liver disease progression and guidance of treatment decisions. To date, data on comparative BA profiles in dogs are limited. However, BA profiles might be even better diagnostic parameters than total BA concentrations. On this background, the present study analyzed and compared individual BA profiles in serum, plasma, urine, and feces of 10 healthy pups and 40 adult healthy dogs using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Sample preparation was performed by solid-phase extraction for serum, plasma, and urine samples or by protein precipitation with methanol for the feces samples. For each dog, 22 different BA, including unconjugated BA and their glycine and taurine conjugates, were analyzed. In general, there was a great interindividual variation for the concentrations of single BA, mostly exemplified by the fact that cholic acid (CA) was by far the most prominent BA in blood and urine samples of some of the dogs (adults and pups), while in others, CA was under the detection limit. There were no significant age-related differences in the BA profiles, but pups showed generally lower absolute BA concentrations in serum, plasma, and urine. Taurine-conjugated BA were predominant in the serum and plasma of both pups (68%) and adults (74-75%), while unconjugated BA were predominant in the urine and feces of pups (64 and 95%, respectively) and adults (68 and 99%, respectively). The primary BA chenodeoxycholic acid and taurocholic acid and the secondary BA deoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid were the most robust analytes for potential diagnostic purpose. In conclusion, this study reports simultaneous BA profiling in dog serum, plasma, urine, and feces and provides valuable diagnostic data for subsequent clinical studies in dogs with different kinds of liver diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increased level of serum cholic acid (CA) is often accompanied with decreased CYP2E1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, the roles of CA and CYP2E1 in hepatocarcinogenesis have not been elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the roles and the underlying mechanisms of CYP2E1 and CA in HCC cell growth. Methods: The proteomic analysis of liver tumors from DEN-induced male SD rats with CA administration was used to reveal the changes of protein expression in the CA treated group. The growth of CA-treated HCC cells was examined by colony formation assays. Autophagic flux was assessed with immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy. Western blot analysis was used to examine the expression of CYP2E1, mTOR, AKT, p62, and LC3II/I. A xenograft tumor model in nude mice was used to examine the role of CYP2E1 in CA-induced hepatocellular carcinogenesis. The samples from HCC patients were used to evaluate the clinical value of CYP2E1 expression. Results: CA treatment significantly increased the growth of HCC cells and promoted xenograft tumors accompanied by a decrease of CYP2E1 expression. Further studies revealed that both in vitro and in vivo, upregulated CYP2E1 expression inhibited the growth of HCC cells, blocked autophagic flux, decreased AKT phosphorylation, and increased mTOR phosphorylation. CYP2E1 was involved in CA-activated autophagy through the AKT/mTOR signaling. Finally, decreased CYP2E1 expression was observed in the tumor tissues of HCC patients and its expression level in tumors was negatively correlated with the serum level of total bile acids (TBA) and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT). Conclusions: CYP2E1 downregulation contributes to CA-induced HCC development presumably through autophagy regulation. Thus, CYP2E1 may serve as a potential target for HCC drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bile acids (BAs) are signaling molecules synthesized in the liver initially by CYP7A1 and CYP27A1 in the classical and alternative pathways, respectively. BAs are essential for cholesterol clearance, intestinal absorption of lipids, and endogenous modulators of farnesoid x receptor (FXR). FXR is critical in maintaining BA homeostasis and gut-liver crosstalk. Complex reactions in vivo and the lack of suitable animal models impede our understanding of the functions of individual BAs. In this study, we characterized the in vivo effects of three-day feeding of cholic acid (CA), deoxycholic acid (DCA), or ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) at physiological/non-hepatotoxic concentrations in a novel low-BA mouse model (Cyp7a1−/ − / Cyp27a1−/ − , DKO). Liver injury, BA levels and composition and BA signaling by the FXR-fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF15) axis were determined. Overall, higher basal inflammation and altered lipid metabolism in DKO mice might be associated with low BAs. CA, DCA, and UDCA feeding activated FXR signals with tissue specificity. Dietary CA and DCA similarly altered tissue BA profiles to be less hydrophobic, while UDCA promoted a more hydrophobic tissue BA pool with the profiles shifted toward non-12α-OH BAs and secondary BAs. However, UDCA did not offer any overt protective effects as expected. These findings allow us to determine the precise effects of individual BAs in vivo on BA-FXR signaling and overall BA homeostasis in liver physiology and pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) is a drug‐metabolizing enzyme that is abundantly expressed in the liver and intestine. It is an important issue whether compounds of interest affect the expression of CYP3A4 because more than 30% of commercially available drugs are metabolized by CYP3A4. In this study, we examined the effects of cholesterol and cholic acid on the expression level and activity of CYP3A4 in hCYP3A mice that have a human CYP3A gene cluster and show human‐like regulation of the coding genes. A normal diet (ND, CE‐2), CE‐2 with 1% cholesterol and 0.5% cholic acid (HCD) or CE‐2 with 0.5% cholic acid was given to the mice. The plasma concentrations of cholesterol, cholic acid and its metabolites in HCD mice were higher than those in ND mice. In this condition, the expression levels of hepatic CYP3A4 and the hydroxylation activities of triazolam, a typical CYP3A4 substrate, in liver microsomes of HCD mice were higher than those in liver microsomes of ND mice. Furthermore, plasma concentrations of triazolam in HCD mice were lower than those in ND mice. In conclusion, our study suggested that hepatic CYP3A4 expression and activity are influenced by the combination of cholesterol and cholic acid in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the decades, the aquaculture sector has witnessed substantial growth, contributing significantly to the nation's economy. However, the menace of CyanoHABs threatens the sustainability of fish farming. Considering the possible hazards linked to cyanotoxins in food and water, a comparative study design between commercial fish in Nigeria and South Africa was employed to investigate cyanotoxins in the water from fishponds. Six commercial fishponds in Calabar Municipality—Nigeria and Duthuni—South Africa with varying climatic zones were selected. Water samples from the ponds were collected at intervals during different seasons (summer, winter, dry, and wet seasons) to capture climate-induced variation. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LCMS) in combination with the metabolites database was used for the identification of toxic cyanometabolites in water samples. The molecular networking approach, coupled with the Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking (GNPS) database and CANOPUS annotation, enabled the putative identification of cyanometabolites. The resulting molecular network unveiled discernible clusters representing related molecule families, aiding in the identification of both known cyanotoxins and unfamiliar analogues. Furthermore, the molecular network revealed that water samples from different fishponds shared specific metabolites, including ethanesulfonic acid, pheophorbide A, cholic acid, phenylalanine, amyl amine, phosphocholine (PC), and sulfonic acid, despite variations in location, local climatic factors, and sampling sites. The fishponds in Nigeria showed the presence of multiple cyanotoxin classes in the dry, wet, and summer seasons in the water. Aflatoxin was identified in all sampling sites in Nigeria (N1, N2, and N3). The Duthuni, South Africa, sampling sites (P1, P2, and P3) exhibited the presence of microginins and microcystins. All the fishponds displayed a widespread occurrence of anabaenopeptins, aplysiatoxins, aflatoxin, microcolins, and marabmids during the selected summer. In conclusion, the untargeted metabolome analysis, guided by GNPS, proved highly effective in identifying both toxic and non-toxic metabolites in fishponds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has dramatically increased in recent years, and it is highly associated with metabolic diseases, as well as the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. However, effective therapeutic strategies for the treatment of NAFLD are still scarce. Although hydrogen-rich water shows beneficial effects for hepatic steatosis, the inconvenience limits the application of this antioxidant. In light of this, hydrogen-rich coral calcium (HRCC) was developed due to its convenience and quantifiable characteristics. However, the effects of HRCC on NAFLD are still unknown. In the present study, we found that HRCC treatment improved methionine-and-choline-deficient diet (MCD)-induced hepatic steatosis, increased aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels, and elevated hepatic inflammatory factor expressions in mice. In addition to the increased expressions of antioxidative enzymes, we found that HRCC increased the expressions of bile acid biosynthesis-related genes, including Cyp8b1 and Cyp27a1. Increased hepatic bile acid contents, such as muricholic acids, 23 nor-deoxycholic acid, glycoursodeoxycholic acid, and cholic acids, were also confirmed in MCD mice treated with HRCC. Since the biogenesis of bile acids is associated with the constitution of gut microbiome, the alterations in gut microbiome by HRCC were evaluated. We found that HRCC significantly changed the constitution of gut microbiome in MCD mice and increased the contents of Anaerobacterium, Acutalibacter, Anaerosacchariphilus, and Corynebacterium. Taken together, HRCC improved MCD-induced NAFLD through anti-inflammatory mechanisms and by increasing antioxidative activities. Additionally, HRCC might alter gut microbiome to change hepatic bile acid contents, exerting beneficial effects for the treatment of NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Employing a one-pot Schiff-base condensation approach, the derivative "cholyl hydrazide Schiff base of phenothiazine" (ChHSB-PTZ) based on cholic acid has been synthesized and characterized via standard procedures. ChHSB-PTZ demonstrates exceptional sensitivity towards Sn(II) metal ion detection through fluorescence "turn-off" behavior based on chelation-enhanced fluorescence quenching (CHEQ) even in the presence of various cations and anions. Through modified Stern–Volmer and Stern–Volmer graph analyses, the binding constant (Ka) and limit of detection (LOD) were found to be 2.8 × 1010 M−1 and 2.2 nM, respectively. A 1 : 1 stoichiometry between ChHSB-PTZ and the Sn(II) metal ion was found via Job's plot. Moreover, the distribution of electronic states in the ChHSB-PTZ Schiff base and the sensing mechanism (CHEQ) were clarified through the use of 1H NMR titration spectroscopy and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. ChHSB-PTZ test paper strips are developed as an essential tool to improve the analytical applicability of the device and enable the rapid, accurate, and affordable detection of Sn(II) metal ions in environmental analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucosal bile acid (BA) profile is still unestablished in diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D). The aim of this study was to explore colonic mucosal BAs and their associations with mucosal mast cell (MMC)-derived nerve growth factor (NGF) and bowel symptoms in IBS-D. Colonic mucosal biopsies from 36 IBS-D patients and 35 healthy controls (HCs) were obtained for targeted BA profiling. MMC count and the expression of NGF and tight junction proteins (TJPs) were examined. We found that colonic mucosal BA profile was altered in the IBS-D cohort. The proportion of primary BAs was significantly higher and that of secondary BAs was lower in IBS-D patients. According to the 90th percentile of total mucosal BA content of HCs, IBS-D patients were divided into BA-H (n = 7, 19.4%) and BA-L (n = 29, 80.6%) subgroups. BA-H patients showed significantly higher total mucosal BA content compared to BA-L subgroup and HCs. The mucosal content of 11 BA metabolites significantly increased in BA-H subgroup, e.g. cholic acid (CA) and taurocholic acid (TCA). Moreover, BA-H patients displayed significantly elevated MMC count and NGF expression, with decreased expression of TJPs (claudin-1, junctional adhesion molecule-A and zonula occludens-1). Correlation analyses revealed that mucosal TCA content positively correlated with MMC count, MMC-derived NGF levels, and abdominal pain while negatively correlated with TJP expression. In conclusion, IBS-D patients showed an altered BA profile in the colonic mucosa. Approximately 20% of them exhibit elevated mucosal BA content, which may be associated with MMC-derived NGF signaling and bowel symptoms. Graphical Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Deoxycholic acid supplementation impairs glucose homeostasis in mice." The correction addresses several errors in the original article, including a misspelled author's name, an incorrect data availability statement, errors in figure legends, and errors in table legends. The correction provides the correct information for each of these errors. The article includes graphs and supporting tables that present data on the effects of deoxycholic acid supplementation on glucose homeostasis and fasting serum bile acid concentrations in mice. [Extracted from the article]

Background and Aims: Bacterial species and microbial pathways along with metabolites and clinical parameters may interact to contribute to non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and disease severity. We used integrated machine learning models and a cross‐validation approach to assess this interaction in bariatric patients. Methods: 113 patients undergoing bariatric surgery had clinical and biochemical parameters, blood and stool metabolite measurements as well as faecal shotgun metagenome sequencing to profile the intestinal microbiome. Liver histology was classified as normal liver obese (NLO; n = 30), simple steatosis (SS; n = 41) or non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH; n = 42); fibrosis was graded F0 to F4. Results: We found that those with NASH versus NLO had an increase in potentially harmful E. coli, a reduction of potentially beneficial Alistipes putredinis and an increase in ALT and AST. There was higher serum glucose, faecal 3‐(3‐hydroxyphenyl)‐3‐hydroxypropionic acid and faecal cholic acid and lower serum glycerophospholipids. In NAFLD, those with severe fibrosis (F3–F4) versus F0 had lower abundance of anti‐inflammatory species (Eubacterium ventriosum, Alistipes finegoldii and Bacteroides dorei) and higher AST, serum glucose, faecal acylcarnitines, serum isoleucine and homocysteine as well as lower serum glycerophospholipids. Pathways involved with amino acid biosynthesis and degradation were significantly more represented in those with NASH compared to NLO, with severe fibrosis having an overall stronger significant association with Superpathway of menaquinol‐10 biosynthesis and Peptidoglycan biosynthesis IV. Conclusions: In bariatric patients, NASH and severe fibrosis were associated with specific bacterial species, metabolic pathways and metabolites that may contribute to NAFLD pathogenesis and disease severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bile acids (BAs) are pleiotropic regulators of metabolism. Elevated levels of hepatic and circulating BAs improve energy metabolism in peripheral organs, but the precise mechanisms underlying the metabolic benefits and harm still need to be fully understood. In the current study, we identified orosomucoid 2 (ORM2) as a liver-secreted hormone (i.e. , hepatokine) induced by BAs and investigated its role in BA-induced metabolic improvements in mouse models of diet-induced obesity. Contrary to our expectation, under a high-fat diet (HFD), our Orm2 knockout (Orm2 -KO) exhibited a lean phenotype compared with C57BL/6J control, partly due to the increased energy expenditure. However, when challenged with a HFD supplemented with cholic acid, Orm2 -KO eliminated the antiobesity effect of BAs, indicating that ORM2 governs BA-induced metabolic improvements. Moreover, hepatic ORM2 overexpression partially replicated BA effects by enhancing insulin sensitivity. Mechanistically, ORM2 suppressed interferon-γ/STAT1 activities in inguinal white adipose tissue depots, forming the basis for anti-inflammatory effects of BAs and improving glucose homeostasis. In conclusion, our study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of BA-induced liver-adipose cross talk through ORM2 induction. Article Highlights: The hepatokine orosomucoid 2 (ORM2) is induced by bile acid overload in the liver as well as by metabolic interventions such as bariatric surgery and calorie restriction. ORM2 is essential for bile acid–induced metabolic improvements in obesity. ORM2 directly targets adipose tissue inflammation to exhibit metabolic benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the anticonvulsant mechanisms of bile acid monomer compounds cholic acid (CA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA). Methods: Male SD rats were randomly divided into a control group, a model group, a sodium valproate or valproic acid (VPA), (189 mg/kg), a CA group (60 mg/kg), and a DCA group (60 mg/kg), with nine rats in each group. The rats in the control group and model group were given placebo, and the mice in each treatment group was pre⁃treated 1 h before modeling, and continuously treated for 16 d. A seizure rat model was established using a water bath at (45.0±0.5) ℃, with a bath given every other day for a total of eight times. The seizure onset time, seizure termination time, and the severity of seizure behavior of rats were observed and recorded. Meanwhile, the levels of interleukin 1β (IL⁃1β), interleukin 6 (IL⁃6), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF⁃α) in rat serum and hippocampal tissues, as well as the contents of glutamate (Glu) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in hippocampal tissues were detected. Hematoxylin⁃eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the pathological damage of hippocampal neurons. Metabolomic analysis of rat serum was performed using the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography ⁃tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC ⁃MS/MS). Results: Compared with the model group, all treatment groups significantly prolonged the latency of seizures but significantly reduced the duration of seizures (P < 0.001); both the VPA group and DCA group significantly reduced the severity of seizures (P < 0.001, P < 0.01), while there was no significant difference in the CA group. Compared with the control group, the contents of IL⁃1β TNF⁃α, and IL⁃6 in serum and hippocampal tissues of the model group were significantly increased (P < 0.001), and the contents of Glu and GABA in hippocampus were also significantly increased (P < 0.001). Compared with the model group, the effects produced by the DCA group and the VPA group were similar, both of which reduced the levels of various biochemical indicators (P < 0.001), while the CA group significantly reduced all indicators except the TNF⁃α level in serum and the IL⁃6 level in the hippocampus (P < 0.01). HE staining results of hippocampal tissues showed that compared with the control group, the pyramidal cells in the hippocampus of rats in the model group were contracted, with a smaller volume, a darker staining, an enhanced alkalinity, and the unclear cytoplasmic nuclear boundaries; compared with the model group, the morphology of hippocampal neurons in each treatment group was significantly improved. Among them, the morphology of hippocampal neurons in the DCA group was similar to that in the VPA group. A total of 312 differential compounds were identified in serum metabolomics analysis. Through principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS⁃DA) analysis, nine differential compounds were selected. The results of metabolic pathway enrichment showed that the anticonvulsant effects of CA and DCA were mainly involved the citric acid cycle, amino acid metabolism, and butyric acid metabolism pathways. Conclusion: CA and DCA have certain improvement effects on behavioral and biochemical indicators of rats with febrile seizures, and their mechanisms of action may be correlated with energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and short⁃chain fatty acid metabolism during seizures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to develop cholic-acid-stabilized itraconazole nanosuspensions (ITZ-Nanos) with the objective of enhancing drug dissolution and oral absorption. A laboratory-scale microprecipitation–high-pressure homogenization method was employed for the preparation of the ITZ-Nanos, while dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscope analysis, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and high-performance liquid chromatography analysis were utilized to evaluate their physicochemical properties. The absorption and bioavailability of the ITZ-Nanos were assessed using Caco-2 cells and rats, with Sporanox® pellets as a comparison. Prior to lyophilization, the particle size of the ITZ-Nanos measured approximately 225.7 nm. Both X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry confirmed that the ITZ remained crystalline within the nanocrystals. Compared to the pellets, the ITZ-Nanos exhibited significantly higher levels of supersaturation dissolution and demonstrated enhanced drug uptake by the Caco-2 cells. The AUC(0–t) value for the ITZ-Nanos in rats was 1.33-fold higher than that observed for the pellets. These findings suggest that cholic acid holds promise as a stabilizer for ITZ nanocrystals, as well as potentially other nanocrystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: When the kidneys or liver fail, toxic metabolites accumulate in the patient's blood, causing cardiovascular and neurotoxic complications and increased mortality. Conventional membrane-based extracorporeal blood purification procedures cannot remove these toxins efficiently. The aim of this in vitro study was to determine whether commercial hemoperfusion adsorbers are suitable for removing protein-bound retention solutes from human plasma and whole blood as well as to compare the removal to conventional hemodialysis. Methods: For in vitro testing of the removal of protein-bound substances, whole blood and plasma were spiked with uremic retention solutes (homocysteine, hippuric acid, indoxyl sulfate, 3-carboxy-4-methyl-5-propyl-2-furanpropionic acid) and the toxins of liver failure (bilirubin, cholic acid, tryptophan, phenol). Subsequently, the protein binding of each retention solute was determined. The adsorption characteristics of the hemoperfusion adsorbers, Jafron HA and Biosky MG, both approved for the adsorption of protein-bound uremic retention solutes and Cytosorb, an adsorber recommended for adsorption of cytokines, were tested by incubating them in spiked whole blood or plasma for 1 h. Subsequently, the adsorption characteristics of the adsorbers were tested in a dynamic system. For this purpose, a 6-h in vitro hemoperfusion treatment was compared with an equally long in vitro hemodialysis treatment. Results: Hippuric acid, homocysteine, indoxyl sulfate, and tryptophan were most effectively removed by hemodialysis. Bilirubin and cholic acid were removed best by hemoperfusion with Cytosorb. A treatment with Jafron HA and Biosky MG showed similar results for the adsorption of the tested retention solutes and were best for removing phenol. 3-Carboxy-4-methyl-5-propyl-2-furanpropionic acid could not be removed with any treatment method. Discussion/Conclusion: A combination of hemodialysis with hemoperfusion seems promising to improve the removal of some toxic metabolites in extracorporeal therapies. However, some very strongly protein-bound metabolites cannot be removed adequately with the adsorbers tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary methionine restriction (MetR) offers an integrated set of beneficial health effects, including delaying aging, extending health span, preventing fat accumulation, and reducing oxidative stress. This study aimed to investigate whether MetR exerts entero-protective effects by modulating intestinal flora, and the effect of MetR on plasma metabolites in rats. Rats were fed diets containing 0.86% methionine (CON group) and 0.17% methionine (MetR group) for 6 weeks. Several indicators of inflammation, gut microbiota, plasma metabolites, and intestinal barrier function were measured. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to analyze the cecal microbiota. The MetR diet reduced the plasma and colonic inflammatory factor levels. The MetR diet significantly improved intestinal barrier function by increasing the mRNA expression of tight junction proteins, such as zonula occludens (ZO)-1, claudin-3, and claudin-5. In addition, MetR significantly increased the levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) by increasing the abundance of SCFAs-producing Erysipclotxichaceae and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 and decreasing the abundance of pro-inflammatory bacteria Proteobacteria and Escherichia-Shigella. Furthermore, MetR reduced the plasma levels of taurochenodeoxycholate-7-sulfate, taurocholic acid, and tauro-ursodeoxycholic acid. Correlation analysis identified that colonic acetate, total colonic SCFAs, 8-acetylegelolide, collettiside I, 6-methyladenine, and cholic acid glucuronide showed a significant positive correlation with Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 abundance but a significant negative correlation with Escherichia-Shigella and Enterococcus abundance. MetR improved gut health and altered the plasma metabolic profile by regulating the gut microbiota in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: All gastrointestinal pathogens, including Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium, undergo adaptation processes during colonization and infection. In this study, we investigated by data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry (DIA-MS) two crucial adaptations of these two Enterococcus species at the proteome level. Firstly, we examined the adjustments to cope with bile acid concentrations at 0.05% that the pathogens encounter during a potential gallbladder infection. Therefore, we chose the primary bile acids cholic acid (CA) and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) as well as the secondary bile acid deoxycholic acid (DCA), as these are the most prominent bile acids. Secondly, we investigated the adaptations from an aerobic to a microaerophilic environment, as encountered after oral-fecal infection, in the absence and presence of deoxycholic acid (DCA). Results: Our findings showed similarities, but also species-specific variations in the response to the different bile acids. Both Enterococcus species showed an IC50 in the range of 0.01- 0.023% for DCA and CDCA in growth experiments and both species were resistant towards 0.05% CA. DCA and CDCA had a strong effect on down-expression of proteins involved in translation, transcription and replication in E. faecalis (424 down-expressed proteins with DCA, 376 down-expressed proteins with CDCA) and in E. faecium (362 down-expressed proteins with DCA, 391 down-expressed proteins with CDCA). Proteins commonly significantly altered in their expression in all bile acid treated samples were identified for both species and represent a "general bile acid response". Among these, various subunits of a V-type ATPase, different ABC-transporters, multi-drug transporters and proteins related to cell wall biogenesis were up-expressed in both species and thus seem to play an essential role in bile acid resistance. Most of the differentially expressed proteins were also identified when E. faecalis was incubated with low levels of DCA at microaerophilic conditions instead of aerobic conditions, indicating that adaptations to bile acids and to a microaerophilic atmosphere can occur simultaneously. Conclusions: Overall, these findings provide a detailed insight into the proteomic stress response of two Enterococcus species and help to understand the resistance potential and the stress-coping mechanisms of these important gastrointestinal bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Bile acids are suggested to be involved in the antidiarrhetic effect of Goreisan (GRS). This study aimed to investigate the effect of GRS on fecal bile acid levels and composition of the gut microbiota in mice. Correlation analysis was employed to identify the potential gut microbiota associated with the alterations in fecal bile acid levels induced by GRS. Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were fed a diet supplemented with GRS water extract for 4 weeks. Feces and cecal contents were collected from the mice to determine bile acid levels and analyze bacterial composition. Results: GRS administration significantly increased the levels of fecal secondary bile acids, including ω‐muricholic acid (MCA), hyodeoxycholic acid (HDCA), and lithocholic acid (LCA). In contrast, the levels of primary bile acids, such as β‐MCA, cholic acid (CA), and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) showed a marked decrease. Further analysis revealed a positive correlation between the relative abundance of Alloprevotella, Dehalobacterium PAC001221, and Eubacterium g23 and fecal levels of ωMCA, HDCA, and LCA. Conclusions: GRS was suggested to promote the formation of fecal secondary bile acids in mice, possibly through the enhancement of bacterial 7β‐dehydroxylation and 6β‐epimerization activities. These changes may be involved in the antidiarrhetic action of GRS. Concurrent evaluation of fecal bile acids and gut microbiota presents a promising approach for elucidating the novel mechanisms underlying the effects of kampo formulations, particularly in modulating the microbial metabolism of intestinal bile acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cholestasis is a pathological condition characterized by disruptions in bile flow, leading to the accumulation of bile acids (BAs) in hepatocytes. Allocholic acid (ACA), a unique fetal BA known for its potent choleretic effects, reappears during liver regeneration and carcinogenesis. In this research, we investigated the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of ACA against mice with cholestasis brought on by α‐naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT). To achieve this, we combined network pharmacology, targeted BA metabolomics, and molecular biology approaches. The results demonstrated that ACA treatment effectively reduced levels of serum AST, ALP, and DBIL, and ameliorated the pathological injury caused by cholestasis. Network pharmacology analysis suggested that ACA primarily regulated BA and salt transport, along with the signaling pathway associated with bile secretion, to improve cholestasis. Subsequently, we examined changes in BA metabolism using UPLC‐MS/MS. The findings indicated that ACA pretreatment induced alterations in the size, distribution, and composition of the liver BA pool. Specifically, it reduced the excessive accumulation of BAs, especially cholic acid (CA), taurocholic acid (TCA), and β‐muricholic acid (β‐MCA), facilitating the restoration of BA homeostasis. Furthermore, ACA pretreatment significantly downregulated the expression of hepatic BA synthase Cyp8b1, while enhancing the expression of hepatic efflux transporter Mrp4, as well as the renal efflux transporters Mdr1 and Mrp2. These changes collectively contributed to improved BA efflux from the liver and enhanced renal elimination of BAs. In conclusion, ACA demonstrated its potential to ameliorate ANIT‐induced liver damage by inhibiting BA synthesis and promoting both BA efflux and renal elimination pathways, thus, restoring BA homeostasis. Allocholic acid (ACA), a unique fetal BA, is known for its potent choleretic effects. In this research, we demonstrated that ACA significantly ameliorated ANIT‐induced cholestatic liver injury. ACA pretreatment reduced excessive BAs, particularly CA, TCA, and β‐MCA in the liver, downregulated the expression of hepatic synthase Cyp8b1, and enhanced the expression of hepatic efflux transporter Mrp4, as well as the renal efflux transporters Mdr1 and Mrp2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride is a pervasive environmental contaminant. Prolonged excessive fluoride intake can inflict severe damage on the liver and intestines. Previous 16S rDNA sequencing revealed a decrease in ileal Bifidobacterium abundance during fluoride-induced hepatointestinal injury. Hence, this work aimed to investigate the possible mitigating function of Bifidobacterium on hepatointestinal injury caused by fluoride. Thirty-six 6-week-old C57BL/6J mice (equally divided between males and females) were allotted randomly to three groups: Ctrl group (distilled water), NaF group, and NaF + Ba group (100 mg/L NaF distilled water). After 10 weeks, the mice were given 1 × 109 CFU/mL Bifidobacterium solution (0.2 mL/day) intragastrically in the NaF + Ba group for 8 weeks, and the mice in other groups were given the same amount of distilled water. Dental damage, bone fluoride content, blood routine, liver and intestinal microstructure and function, inflammatory factors, and regulatory cholic acid transporters were examined. Our results showed that fluoride increased glutamic-oxalacetic transaminase (GOT), glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (GPT) activities, and the levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 levels in serum, liver, and ileum. However, Bifidobacterium intervention alleviated fluoride-induced changes in the above indicators. In addition, Bifidobacterium reduced the mRNA expression levels of bile acid transporters ASBT, IBABP, OST-α, and OST-β in the ileum. In summary, Bifidobacterium supplementation relieved fluoride-induced hepatic and ileal toxicity via an inflammatory response and bile acid transporters in the liver and ileum of mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Representatives of the genus Bifidobacterium are widely used as probiotics to modulate the gut microbiome and alleviate various health conditions. The action mechanisms of probiotics rely on their direct effect on the gut microbiota and the local and systemic effect of its metabolites. The main purpose of this animal experiment was to assess the biosafety of the Bifidobacterium longum strain BIOCC1719. Additional aims were to characterise the influence of the strain on the intestinal microbiota and the effect on several health parameters of the host during 15- and 30-day oral administration of the strain to mice. The strain altered the gut microbial community, thereby altering luminal short-chain fatty acid metabolism, resulting in a shift in the proportions of acetic, butyric, and propionic acids in the faeces and serum of the test group mice. Targeted metabolic profiling of serum revealed the possible ability of the strain to positively affect the hosts' amino acids and bile acids metabolism, as the cholic acid, deoxycholic acid, aspartate, and glutamate concentration were significantly higher in the test group. The tendency to increase anti-inflammatory polyamines (spermidine, putrescine) and neuroprotective 3-indolepropionic acid metabolism and to lower uremic toxins (P-cresol-SO4, indoxyl-SO4) was registered. Thus, B. longum BIOCC1719 may exert health-promoting effects on the host through modulation of the gut microbiome and the host metabolome via inducing the production of health-promoting bioactive compounds. The health effects of the strain need to be confirmed in clinical trials with human volunteers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the primary sources of energy and nutrients needed by the body, and rice resistant starch (RRS) has been found to have hypoglycemic effects. However, its biological activity and specific mechanisms still need to be further elucidated. In the present study, 52 RRS differential metabolites were obtained from mouse liver, rat serum, canine feces, and human urine, and 246 potential targets were identified through a literature review and database analysis. A total of 151 common targets were identified by intersecting them with the targets of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). After network pharmacology analysis, 11 core metabolites were identified, including linolenic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid, deoxycholic acid, lithocholic acid, lithocholylglycine, glycoursodeoxycholic acid, phenylalanine, norepinephrine, cholic acid, and L-glutamic acid, and 16 core targets were identified, including MAPK3, MAPK1, EGFR, ESR1, PRKCA, FYN, LCK, DLG4, ITGB1, IL6, PTPN11, RARA, NR3C1, PTPN6, PPARA, and ITGAV. The core pathways included the neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction, cancer, and arachidonic acid metabolism pathways. The molecular docking results showed that bile acids such as glycoursodeoxycholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid, lithocholic acid, deoxycholic acid, and cholic acid exhibited strong docking effects with EGFR, ITGAV, ITGB1, MAPK3, NR3C1, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase. In vitro hypoglycemic experiments further suggested that bile acids showed significant inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase and α-amylase, with CDCA and UDCA having the most prominent inhibitory effect. In summary, this study reveals a possible hypoglycemic pathway of RRS metabolites and provides new research perspectives to further explore the therapeutic mechanism of bile acids in T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]