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Common food additive found to affect gut microbiota

A new study found that titanium dioxide nanoparticles, used in over 900 food products, can affect the gut microbiota and potentially trigger diseases like inflammatory bowel diseases and colorectal cancer. The research suggests that better regulation of E171 consumption is needed to ensure safe use.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateMay 13, 2019

Diet, microbiome, and stress

Researchers found that a diet enriched with ω-3 PUFAs and vitamin A can normalize gut microbiome composition and hippocampal protein levels, leading to improved emotional and memory performance in stressed rats. The study also suggests long-term links between diet and cognitive function.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019

Probiotic bacteria evolve inside mice's GI tracts

A new study found that probiotic bacteria can evolve and change inside the mouse's gut, making them less effective and sometimes harmful. The researchers discovered that the bacteria's DNA changes and they develop new capabilities after living in the mice's intestines for a few weeks.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 26, 2019

How the microbiota controls neutrophil activity

The microbiota controls neutrophil activity by producing Serum Amyloid A (Saa), a host protein that restricts aberrant activation while enhancing migration to wounds. Saa reduces bactericidal activity and expression of pro-inflammatory genes in neutrophils.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 7, 2019

Balancing the gut

A study by researchers from Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin has identified a molecule, c-Maf, that regulates the balance between the immune system and gut microbiota. This finding may lead to new therapies for chronic inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Immunology·DateFeb 26, 2019

Get fit for a fit gut

Research suggests that higher cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with greater gut microbiota diversity, independent of body fat percentage. The study found that exercise at a high intensity improved gut microbiota diversity in cancer survivors.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateFeb 14, 2019

Household cleaning products may contribute to kids' overweight by altering their gut microbiota

A Canadian study found that frequent use of household disinfectants alters the gut microbiota in infants, leading to higher body mass index scores and increased risk of childhood obesity. In contrast, eco-friendly cleaners may reduce this risk due to healthier maternal lifestyles and eating habits.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 17, 2018

How bad bacteria gain an edge in the gut

Clostridium difficile produces p-cresol to control intestinal microbiota and confer fitness advantage over natural protective bacteria. This compound may provide a novel drug target for reducing C. difficile infection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 11, 2018

Fresh and raw diets for dogs may have health benefits, study says

A study published in the Journal of Animal Science found that fresh and raw diets for dogs can be more digestible than traditional kibble, leading to lower blood triglyceride levels. The diets also showed major shifts in the microbiota of the dogs' gut, but all diets were considered healthy and palatable.

What you eat while pregnant may affect your baby's gut

A study published in Microbiome found that maternal diet during pregnancy can influence the infant gut microbiome, with varying effects depending on delivery mode. Vaginal delivery was associated with a higher abundance of Bifidobacterium and Enterobactericeae, while caesarean section was linked to increased Streptococcus and Clostridium.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMicrobiome·DateJul 4, 2018