Probiotics at War Against Viruses: What Is Missing From the Picture?

Li D., Zhao M.Y., Tan T.H.

In order to answer the question whether coronaviruses (CoVs) can be transmitted via foods, this review made a comparison between CoVs with the most recognized foodborne virus, human noroviruses (NoVs). As a result, although CoVs indeed have shown the possibilities to remain infectious on foods and/or food packaging materials long enough (from several days to several weeks) to potentially cause transmission, they seem to be less persistent than NoVs towards common disinfection practices with alcohols, chlorine and ultraviolet (UV). More importantly, the chance of foodborne transmission of CoVs is considered low as CoVs mainly spread through the respiratory tract and there is no clear evidence showing CoVs can follow fecal-oral routes like human NoVs and other foodborne viruses.

Akour A.

Understanding mechanisms of the novel SARS-CoV2 infection and progression can provide potential novel targets for prevention and/or treatment. This could be achieved via the inhibition of viral entry and/or replication, or by suppression of the immunologic response that is provoked by the infection (known as the cytokine storm). Probiotics are defined as 'live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host'. There is scarcity of evidence about the relationship between COVID-19 and gut microbiota. So, whether or not these supplements can prevent or ameliorate COVID-19-associated symptoms is not fully understood. The aim of this study is to provide an indirect evidence about the utility of probiotics in combating COVID-19 or its associated symptoms, through the review of its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro, animal models and human trials. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: The role of probiotics in alleviation of the novel COVID-19 has not been established. This review provides an insight about the anti-inflammatory, antiviral effects of probiotics in vitro, animal models and human. The latter can provide an indirect evidence and/or hypothesis-driven approach to investigate the use of probiotics as adjunctive therapy in the prophylaxis and/or alleviation of COVID-19 symptoms.

Jayawardena R., Sooriyaarachchi P., Chourdakis M., Jeewandara C., Ranasinghe P.

Balanced nutrition which can help in maintaining immunity is essential for prevention and management of viral infections. While data regarding nutrition in coronavirus infection (COVID-19) are not available, in this review, we aimed to evaluate evidence from previous clinical trials that studied nutrition-based interventions for viral diseases (with special emphasis on respiratory infections), and summarise our observations. A systematic search strategy was employed using keywords to search the literature in 3 key medical databases: PubMed®, Web of Science® and SciVerse Scopus®. Studies were considered eligible if they were controlled trials in humans, measuring immunological parameters, on viral and respiratory infections. Clinical trials on vitamins, minerals, nutraceuticals and probiotics were included. A total of 640 records were identified initially and 22 studies were included from other sources. After excluding duplicates and articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria, 43 studies were obtained (vitamins: 13; minerals: 8; nutraceuticals: 18 and probiotics: 4). Among vitamins, A and D showed a potential benefit, especially in deficient populations. Among trace elements, selenium and zinc have also shown favourable immune-modulatory effects in viral respiratory infections. Several nutraceuticals and probiotics may also have some role in enhancing immune functions. Micronutrients may be beneficial in nutritionally depleted elderly population. We summaries possible benefits of some vitamins, trace elements, nutraceuticals and probiotics in viral infections. Nutrition principles based on these data could be useful in possible prevention and management of COVID-19 • Supplementation of Vitamin A, D and Zn and selenium may be beneficial for both prevention and treatment of viral infections. • Several nutraceuticals and probiotics can enhance immunity against viral infection. • Patients with malnutrition, diabetes and obesity require personalized nutrition advices during this pandemic of COVID-19.

Belguesmia Y., Bendjeddou K., Kempf I., Boukherroub R., Drider D.

Lactobacillus paracasei CNCM I-5369 isolated from a traditional Algerian dairy product produces extracellular inhibitory substances, namely bacteriocins, which are active against a panel of pathogenic Escherichia coli strains. This activity was observed only at a narrow pH 4.5-5, and resulted to be heat stable and sensitive to the action of proteolytic enzymes, which indicate a proteinaceous nature. This new strain has a genome of 2,752,975 bp, with a 46.6% G+C ratio and contains at least 2,664 coding sequences. The Bagel software analysis identified five open reading frames (ORFs) that are translated to new class II bacteriocin. Each ORF was cloned in frame with a His-tag tail and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) (pLysS) strain. Of note, each fusion protein carrying any of these ORFs at the C or N-terminal position resulted to be active against E. coli 184 strain used as target organism. This manuscript reports the first multi-bacteriocinogenic strain producing five new class II bacteriocins with activity against Gram-negative bacilli (GNB), namely E. coli. Heterologous expression and activity of each new class II bacteriocin were demonstrated.

Yang Y., Peng F., Wang R., Guan K., Jiang T., Xu G., Sun J., Chang C.

The 2019-nCoV is officially called SARS-CoV-2 and the disease is named COVID-19. This viral epidemic in China has led to the deaths of over 1800 people, mostly elderly or those with an underlying chronic disease or immunosuppressed state. This is the third serious Coronavirus outbreak in less than 20 years, following SARS in 2002-2003 and MERS in 2012. While human strains of Coronavirus are associated with about 15% of cases of the common cold, the SARS-CoV-2 may present with varying degrees of severity, from flu-like symptoms to death. It is currently believed that this deadly Coronavirus strain originated from wild animals at the Huanan market in Wuhan, a city in Hubei province. Bats, snakes and pangolins have been cited as potential carriers based on the sequence homology of CoV isolated from these animals and the viral nucleic acids of the virus isolated from SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. Extreme quarantine measures, including sealing off large cities, closing borders and confining people to their homes, were instituted in January 2020 to prevent spread of the virus, but by that time much of the damage had been done, as human-human transmission became evident. While these quarantine measures are necessary and have prevented a historical disaster along the lines of the Spanish flu, earlier recognition and earlier implementation of quarantine measures may have been even more effective. Lessons learned from SARS resulted in faster determination of the nucleic acid sequence and a more robust quarantine strategy. However, it is clear that finding an effective antiviral and developing a vaccine are still significant challenges. The costs of the epidemic are not limited to medical aspects, as the virus has led to significant sociological, psychological and economic effects globally. Unfortunately, emergence of SARS-CoV-2 has led to numerous reports of Asians being subjected to racist behavior and hate crimes across the world.

Xia X.

Abstract Wild mammalian species, including bats, constitute the natural reservoir of betacoronavirus (including SARS, MERS, and the deadly SARS-CoV-2). Different hosts or host tissues provide different cellular environments, especially different antiviral and RNA modification activities that can alter RNA modification signatures observed in the viral RNA genome. The zinc finger antiviral protein (ZAP) binds specifically to CpG dinucleotides and recruits other proteins to degrade a variety of viral RNA genomes. Many mammalian RNA viruses have evolved CpG deficiency. Increasing CpG dinucleotides in these low-CpG viral genomes in the presence of ZAP consistently leads to decreased viral replication and virulence. Because ZAP exhibits tissue-specific expression, viruses infecting different tissues are expected to have different CpG signatures, suggesting a means to identify viral tissue-switching events. The author shows that SARS-CoV-2 has the most extreme CpG deficiency in all known betacoronavirus genomes. This suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may have evolved in a new host (or new host tissue) with high ZAP expression. A survey of CpG deficiency in viral genomes identified a virulent canine coronavirus (alphacoronavirus) as possessing the most extreme CpG deficiency, comparable with that observed in SARS-CoV-2. This suggests that the canine tissue infected by the canine coronavirus may provide a cellular environment strongly selecting against CpG. Thus, viral surveys focused on decreasing CpG in viral RNA genomes may provide important clues about the selective environments and viral defenses in the original hosts.

Temmam S., Barbarino A., Maso D., Behillil S., Enouf V., Huon C., Jaraud A., Chevallier L., Backovic M., Pérot P., Verwaerde P., Tiret L., van der Werf S., Eloit M.

AbstractSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which originated in Wuhan, China, in 2019, is responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. It is now accepted that the wild fauna, probably bats, constitute the initial reservoir of the virus, but little is known about the role pets can play in the spread of the disease in human communities, knowing the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to infect some domestic animals. We tested 21 domestic pets (9 cats and 12 dogs) living in close contact with their owners (belonging to a veterinary community of 20 students) in which two students tested positive for COVID-19 and several others (n = 11/18) consecutively showed clinical signs (fever, cough, anosmia, etc.) compatible with COVID-19 infection. Although a few pets presented many clinical signs indicative for a coronavirus infection, no animal tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR and no antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 were detectable in their blood using an immunoprecipitation assay. These original data can serve a better evaluation of the host range of SARS-CoV-2 in natural environment exposure conditions.

Zhang Q., Zhang H., Huang K., Yang Y., Hui X., Gao J., He X., Li C., Gong W., Zhang Y., Peng C., Gao X., Chen H., Zou Z., Shi Z., et. al.

SummaryCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was first reported in Wuhan, China, and rapidly spread worldwide. Previous studies suggested cat could be a potential susceptible animal of SARS-CoV-2. Here, we investigated the infection of SARS-CoV-2 in cats by detecting specific serum antibodies. A cohort of serum samples were collected from cats in Wuhan, including 102 sampled after COVID-19 outbreak, and 39 prior to the outbreak. 15 of 102 (14.7%) cat sera collected after the outbreak were positive for the receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 by indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Among the positive samples, 11 had SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies with a titer ranging from 1/20 to 1/1080. No serological cross-reactivity was detected between the SARS-CoV-2 and type I or II feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV). Our data demonstrates that SARS-CoV-2 has infected cat population in Wuhan during the outbreak.

Paraskevis D., Kostaki E.G., Magiorkinis G., Panayiotakopoulos G., Sourvinos G., Tsiodras S.

A novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) associated with human to human transmission and severe human infection has been recently reported from the city of Wuhan in China. Our objectives were to characterize the genetic relationships of the 2019-nCoV and to search for putative recombination within the subgenus of sarbecovirus. Putative recombination was investigated by RDP4 and Simplot v3.5.1 and discordant phylogenetic clustering in individual genomic fragments was confirmed by phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods. Our analysis suggests that the 2019-nCoV although closely related to BatCoV RaTG13 sequence throughout the genome (sequence similarity 96.3%), shows discordant clustering with the Bat_SARS-like coronavirus sequences. Specifically, in the 5′-part spanning the first 11,498 nucleotides and the last 3′-part spanning 24,341–30,696 positions, 2019-nCoV and RaTG13 formed a single cluster with Bat_SARS-like coronavirus sequences, whereas in the middle region spanning the 3′-end of ORF1a, the ORF1b and almost half of the spike regions, 2019-nCoV and RaTG13 grouped in a separate distant lineage within the sarbecovirus branch. The levels of genetic similarity between the 2019-nCoV and RaTG13 suggest that the latter does not provide the exact variant that caused the outbreak in humans, but the hypothesis that 2019-nCoV has originated from bats is very likely. We show evidence that the novel coronavirus (2019-nCov) is not-mosaic consisting in almost half of its genome of a distinct lineage within the betacoronavirus. These genomic features and their potential association with virus characteristics and virulence in humans need further attention. • Full-genomic sequence analysis of the novel corona virus (2019-nCoV). • Phylogenetic and recombination analysis within the subgenus of sarbecovirus. • Evidence that the 2019-nCoV shows discordant clustering with the Bat_SARS-like coronavirus sequences. • Evidence that the hypothesis of emergence of 2019-nCoV as a result of a recent recombination event is rejected.

Shi J., Wen Z., Zhong G., Yang H., Wang C., Liu R., He X., Shuai L., Sun Z., Zhao Y., Liang L., Cui P., Wang J., Zhang X., Guan Y., et. al.

AbstractSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes the infectious disease COVID-19, which was first reported in Wuhan, China in December, 2019. Despite the tremendous efforts to control the disease, COVID-19 has now spread to over 100 countries and caused a global pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 is thought to have originated in bats; however, the intermediate animal sources of the virus are completely unknown. Here, we investigated the susceptibility of ferrets and animals in close contact with humans to SARS-CoV-2. We found that SARS-CoV-2 replicates poorly in dogs, pigs, chickens, and ducks, but efficiently in ferrets and cats. We found that the virus transmits in cats via respiratory droplets. Our study provides important insights into the animal reservoirs of SARS-CoV-2 and animal management for COVID-19 control.

Chen G., Wu D., Guo W., Cao Y., Huang D., Wang H., Wang T., Zhang X., Chen H., Yu H., Zhang X., Zhang M., Wu S., Song J., Chen T., et. al.

BACKGROUND Since December 2019, an outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in Wuhan, and is now becoming a global threat. We aimed to delineate and compare the immunologic features of severe and moderate COVID-19. METHODS In this retrospective study, the clinical and immunologic characteristics of 21 patients (17 male and 4 female) with COVID-19 were analyzed. These patients were classified as severe (11 cases) and moderate (10 cases) according to the Guidelines released by the National Health Commission of China. RESULTS The median age of severe and moderate cases was 61.0 and 52.0 years, respectively. Common clinical manifestations included fever, cough and fatigue. Compared to moderate cases, severe cases more frequently had dyspnea, lymphopenia, and hypoalbuminemia, with higher levels of alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, C-reactive protein, ferritin and D-dimer as well as markedly higher levels of IL-2R, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α. Absolute number of T lymphocytes, CD4+T and CD8+T cells decreased in nearly all the patients, and were markedly lower in severe cases (294.0, 177.5 and 89.0 × 106/L) than moderate cases (640.5, 381.5 and 254.0 × 106/L). The expressions of IFN-γ by CD4+T cells tended to be lower in severe cases (14.1%) than moderate cases (22.8%). CONCLUSION The SARS-CoV-2 infection may affect primarily T lymphocytes particularly CD4+T and CD8+ T cells, resulting in decrease in numbers as well as IFN-γ production. These potential immunological markers may be of importance due to their correlation with disease severity in COVID-19.

Andersen K.G., Rambaut A., Lipkin W.I., Holmes E.C., Garry R.F.

Wan Y., Shang J., Graham R., Baric R.S., Li F.

The recent emergence of Wuhan coronavirus (2019-nCoV) puts the world on alert. 2019-nCoV is reminiscent of the SARS-CoV outbreak in 2002 to 2003. Our decade-long structural studies on the receptor recognition by SARS-CoV have identified key interactions between SARS-CoV spike protein and its host receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which regulate both the cross-species and human-to-human transmissions of SARS-CoV. One of the goals of SARS-CoV research was to build an atomic-level iterative framework of virus-receptor interactions to facilitate epidemic surveillance, predict species-specific receptor usage, and identify potential animal hosts and animal models of viruses. Based on the sequence of 2019-nCoV spike protein, we apply this predictive framework to provide novel insights into the receptor usage and likely host range of 2019-nCoV. This study provides a robust test of this reiterative framework, providing the basic, translational, and public health research communities with predictive insights that may help study and battle this novel 2019-nCoV. ABSTRACT Recently, a novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) has emerged from Wuhan, China, causing symptoms in humans similar to those caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). Since the SARS-CoV outbreak in 2002, extensive structural analyses have revealed key atomic-level interactions between the SARS-CoV spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) and its host receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which regulate both the cross-species and human-to-human transmissions of SARS-CoV. Here, we analyzed the potential receptor usage by 2019-nCoV, based on the rich knowledge about SARS-CoV and the newly released sequence of 2019-nCoV. First, the sequence of 2019-nCoV RBD, including its receptor-binding motif (RBM) that directly contacts ACE2, is similar to that of SARS-CoV, strongly suggesting that 2019-nCoV uses ACE2 as its receptor. Second, several critical residues in 2019-nCoV RBM (particularly Gln493) provide favorable interactions with human ACE2, consistent with 2019-nCoV’s capacity for human cell infection. Third, several other critical residues in 2019-nCoV RBM (particularly Asn501) are compatible with, but not ideal for, binding human ACE2, suggesting that 2019-nCoV has acquired some capacity for human-to-human transmission. Last, while phylogenetic analysis indicates a bat origin of 2019-nCoV, 2019-nCoV also potentially recognizes ACE2 from a diversity of animal species (except mice and rats), implicating these animal species as possible intermediate hosts or animal models for 2019-nCoV infections. These analyses provide insights into the receptor usage, cell entry, host cell infectivity and animal origin of 2019-nCoV and may help epidemic surveillance and preventive measures against 2019-nCoV. IMPORTANCE The recent emergence of Wuhan coronavirus (2019-nCoV) puts the world on alert. 2019-nCoV is reminiscent of the SARS-CoV outbreak in 2002 to 2003. Our decade-long structural studies on the receptor recognition by SARS-CoV have identified key interactions between SARS-CoV spike protein and its host receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which regulate both the cross-species and human-to-human transmissions of SARS-CoV. One of the goals of SARS-CoV research was to build an atomic-level iterative framework of virus-receptor interactions to facilitate epidemic surveillance, predict species-specific receptor usage, and identify potential animal hosts and animal models of viruses. Based on the sequence of 2019-nCoV spike protein, we apply this predictive framework to provide novel insights into the receptor usage and likely host range of 2019-nCoV. This study provides a robust test of this reiterative framework, providing the basic, translational, and public health research communities with predictive insights that may help study and battle this novel 2019-nCoV.

Guo Y., Cao Q., Hong Z., Tan Y., Chen S., Jin H., Tan K., Wang D., Yan Y.

An acute respiratory disease, caused by a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2, previously known as 2019-nCoV), the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread throughout China and received worldwide attention. On 30 January 2020, World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared the COVID-19 epidemic as a public health emergency of international concern. The emergence of SARS-CoV-2, since the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) in 2002 and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in 2012, marked the third introduction of a highly pathogenic and large-scale epidemic coronavirus into the human population in the twenty-first century. As of 1 March 2020, a total of 87,137 confirmed cases globally, 79,968 confirmed in China and 7169 outside of China, with 2977 deaths (3.4%) had been reported by WHO. Meanwhile, several independent research groups have identified that SARS-CoV-2 belongs to β-coronavirus, with highly identical genome to bat coronavirus, pointing to bat as the natural host. The novel coronavirus uses the same receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as that for SARS-CoV, and mainly spreads through the respiratory tract. Importantly, increasingly evidence showed sustained human-to-human transmission, along with many exported cases across the globe. The clinical symptoms of COVID-19 patients include fever, cough, fatigue and a small population of patients appeared gastrointestinal infection symptoms. The elderly and people with underlying diseases are susceptible to infection and prone to serious outcomes, which may be associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and cytokine storm. Currently, there are few specific antiviral strategies, but several potent candidates of antivirals and repurposed drugs are under urgent investigation. In this review, we summarized the latest research progress of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical characteristics of COVID-19, and discussed the current treatment and scientific advancements to combat the epidemic novel coronavirus.

Dong Y., Li R., Liu Y., Ma L., Zha J., Qiao X., Chai T., Wu B.

A strain of Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) BYS2 was previously isolated from Mount Tai, which is located in Tai’an City in the Shandong Province of China. The strain was then stored in the Environmental Microbiology Laboratory at Shandong Agricultural University. To evaluate the effect of the bacterium preparation in broiler production, we fed the bacterium (106 CFU/g) to 1-day-old broilers and continued this feeding for 6 weeks to analyze its effect on growth and immune performance. We found that the average weight of the bacterium-fed group increased by 17.19% at weeks 5 compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The height of the villi in the duodenum and jejunum and the ratio of villi to crypt were significantly increased in the bacterium-fed group at weeks 5 (P < 0.05). Also, the IgG in the serum of broilers in the experimental group increased by 31.60% (P < 0.05) and IgM 30.52% (P < 0.05) compared with those in the control group. The expressions of the major pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), antiviral proteins, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and β-defensins were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the bursa immune organ indices of broilers in the experimental group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Also, after 5 weeks of continuous feeding, when infected with Escherichia coli (E. coli) O1K1 and Newcastle disease virus (NDV) F48E8, the content of bacteria and virus in tissues and organs of the experimental group decreased significantly, and the survival rate of infected chickens increased by 31.1% and 17.7%, respectively (P < 0.05). These results show that the anti-infective B. subtilis BYS2 could, to some extent, replace antibiotics to promote growth, improve innate immunity, and enhance disease resistance in broilers.

Gaus O.V., Fedorenko A.S., Sudakova A.N.

Post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI–IBS) is the first phenotype of the disease described in the literature and the most studied to date. The prevalence of PI–IBS in the population continues to grow steadily especially in the post-COVID-19 pandemic period. Taking into account the accumulated scientific and clinical data dysfunction of the functional axis «microbiota-gut-brain» associated with the formation of visceral hypersensitivity and intestinal motor disorders due to abnormal serotonin metabolism, increased intestinal permeability and low-grade inflammation is considered as a key pathogenetic factor underlying the development and persistence of PI–IBS symptoms. This review article analyzes and summarizes information on the mechanisms of PI–IBS associated with changes in neurohumoral regulation, as well as the qualitative and quantitative composition of the intestinal microbiota. In addition, data on the possibility of using probiotic therapy in the complex therapy of patients with PI–IBS are presented.

Tagg J.R., Harold L.K., Hale J.D.

The discovery and application of bacteriocin-producing probiotics, such as Streptococcus salivarius K12 (BLIS K12), represent significant advances in the prevention and management of bacterial infections, particularly in the oral cavity and upper respiratory tract. Originally developed for its bacteriocin-mediated inhibition of the important bacterial pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes, BLIS K12 has more recently also demonstrated potential in the modulation and prevention of viral infections, including COVID-19. Emerging evidence also suggests a broader role for BLIS K12 in immune regulation, with implications for controlling hyperinflammatory responses and enhancing mucosal immunity. Of particular interest is recent work indicating that BLIS K12 can modulate antibody responses against viral antigens, such as the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, positioning it as a unique adjunct in managing viral infections. This review chronicles the pathway of BLIS K12’s probiotic development, emphasizing its relevant bacteriocin mechanisms, oral health applications, emerging antiviral properties, and potential broader health benefits through immune modulation, all of which position it as a significant non-pharmacological adjunct in managing respiratory and immune health

Sadri M., Shafaghat Z., Roozbehani M., Hoseinzadeh A., Mohammadi F., Arab F.L., Minaeian S., Fard S.R., Faraji F.

Various types of liver or hepatic diseases cause the death of about 2 million people worldwide every year, of which 1 million die from the complications of cirrhosis and another million from hepatocellular carcinoma and viral hepatitis. Currently, the second most common solid organ transplant is the liver, and the current rate represents less than 10% of global transplant requests. Hence, finding new approaches to treat and prevent liver diseases is essential. In liver diseases, the interaction between the liver, gut, and immune system is crucial, and probiotics positively affect the human microbiota. Probiotics are a non-toxic and biosafe alternative to synthetic chemical compounds. Health promotion by lowering cholesterol levels, stimulating host immunity, the natural gut microbiota, and other functions are some of the activities of probiotics, and their metabolites, including bacteriocins, can exert antimicrobial effects against a broad range of pathogenic bacteria. The present review discusses the available data on the results of preclinical and clinical studies on the effects of probiotic administration on different types of liver diseases.

Ohlopkova O.V., Popov I.V., Popov I.V., Stolbunova K.A., Stepanyuk M.A., Moshkin A.D., Maslov A.A., Sobolev I.A., Malinovkin A.V., Tkacheva E.V., Bogdanova D.A., Lukbanova E.A., Ermakov A.M., Alekseev A.Y., Todorov S.D., et. al.

Bats are natural reservoirs for many emerging viruses, including coronaviruses that were probably progenitors to human coronaviruses with epidemic and pandemic potential, which highlights the importance of screening studies of bat-derived viruses. This study investigates the prevalence and phylogenetic characteristics of coronaviruses in bat populations from the Rostov and Novosibirsk regions of Russia between 2021 and 2023. Utilizing PCR screening and sequencing, viruses belonging to the Alphacoronavirus genus were detected in several bat species, with prevalence rates ranging from 4.94% to 62.5%. Phylogenetic analysis of detected sequences revealed the presence of three subgenera: Pedacovirus, Myotacovirus, and Nyctacovirus. These sequences shared over 90% identity with alphacoronaviruses previously identified in bats across Northern Europe and Russia, underscoring the viruses’ wide geographic distribution and evolutionary connections. The results highlight the adaptability of alphacoronaviruses and the role of bat migratory behavior in their dispersal. The study underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and phylogenetic studies of bat-derived coronaviruses to better understand their ecological dynamics and potential zoonotic threats.

Hazan S., von Guttenberg M., Vidal A.C., Spivak N.M., Bystritsky A.

Background: The gut–brain axis, significantly influenced by the gut microbiome, is a growing focus in mental health research. This study aimed to investigate gut microbiome differences between anxious and non-anxious participants. Methods: A convenience sample of 119 participants consisted of 56 participants with self-assessed low to zero levels of anxiety and 63 with self-assessed mild to severe levels of anxiety, using the self-rated Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) test. Fresh stool samples were collected for bacterial DNA extraction. DNA library preparation was performed using shotgun methodology, sequenced with the NextSeq 500/550 High Output v2.5 300 cycle kit, and mapped using minimap2. Bioinformatics analysis was conducted using One Codex. Results: The study participants were all of white race/ethnicity and the mean age, 54 (anxious group) vs. 55 (non-anxious) yr old, was not different between groups (p = 0.75). In the anxious group, 33% were females versus 25% in the non-anxious group, p = 0.46. Six percent of the anxious group reported a prior diagnosis of depression and 8% had irritable bowel syndrome, compared to none in the non-anxious group (p = 0.02, p = 0.006, respectively). Mann–Whitney tests revealed higher relative abundances of the genera Clostridioides (p = 0.011) and Bacteroides (p = 0.002) in the anxious group. Conversely, the anxious group had lower levels of the genera Bifidobacterium (p = 2.118 × 10−10), Faecalibacterium (p = 0.020), and the Phylum Actinobacteria (p = 1.516 × 10−8). Conclusions: Our findings corroborate previous studies, showing significant gut microbiome differences between anxious individuals and their non-anxious counterparts. These results support further exploration of microbiome-centric anxiety research.

Rabiei S., Kamali Z., Jamilian P., Jamilian P.

Amrouche T., Lammi S., Drider D.

Probiotics and prebiotics have been suggested as natural agents against viral infections and dysbiosis and may encourage clinical applications. This review aims to analyze the main and recent advances related to viral infections such as Covid-19 and its gastrointestinal complications, antiviral immunity generated and possible preventive role that probiotics and/or prebiotics can play in controlling and promoting antiviral immunity. The literature search was performed through a critical analysis of relevant publications reported in PubMed and Scopus databases on clinical trials and assays conducted in vitro on colon cells and in vivo on mice. Some studies using probiotics and prebiotics for the prevention of viral infection in different age groups are discussed. Covid-19 patients have been shown to suffer from gastrointestinal complications in addition to respiratory symptoms due to interactions between the respiratory system and the gastrointestinal tract infected with SARS-CoV-2. Unfortunately, therapies used to prevent (or treat) symptoms of Covid-19 have proven to be of limited effectiveness. In addition, the lack of access to coronavirus vaccines around the world and vaccine hesitancy continue to hamper control of Covid-19. It is therefore crucial to find alternative methods that can prevent disease symptoms. Evidence-based efficacy of certain probiotics (Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium) that may be useful in viral infections was shown with immunomodulatory properties (pro-inflammatory mediators reduction), promoting antiviral immunity (antibodies production, virus titers) and controlling inflammation (anti-inflammatory effect), as well as viral clearance and antimicrobial potential against opportunistic bacteria (anti-dysbiosis effect). But, available data about clinical application of probiotics in Covid-19 context remain limited and relevant scientific investigation is still in its early stages. Also, evidence for prebiotics potential in this field is limited, since the exact mechanism involved in systemic immune modulation by these compounds is till now unknown. Thus, further research is necessary to explore in the viral infection context the mechanism by which gut and lung interact in the presence of probiotics and prebiotics through more animal and clinical experiments.

Singh B., Mal G., Kalra R.S., Marotta F.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has caused huge mortality and morbidities including inflammation, oxidative stress, dysfunction of mitochondria, hypoxia, and gastro-hepatic and neurological problems. Besides the respiratory system, the digestive tract acts as a key route of entry of SARS-CoV-2 and its release into the environment. In addition to angiotensin-II-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) in respiratory tract cells, neuropilin-1 (NRP1) and neuropilin-2 (NRP2) in respiratory and olfactory epithelium mediate binding and internalization of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants. Microbial interventions, namely, probiotics, postbiotics (such as bacteriocins, AMPs, butyrate, and niacin), fecal microbiota transplantation, and phage therapies, can modulate and restore the perturbed microbiome and prevent against SARS-CoV-2.

Singh B., Mal G., Kalra R.S., Marotta F.

Genitourinary and reproductive health is essential for the mother and neonate. Vaginal microbiome being highly complex and dominated by beneficial lactic acid bacteria is considered an indicator of healthy normal microbiota. However, the vaginal microbiota can be perturbed by several factors including infections, antibiotic therapy, and personal hygiene. The consequential dysbiosis affects woman and maternal-fetal well-being. Probiotics have multiple pro-health benefits in reproductive system-related dysbiosis and patients suffering from reproductive tract infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV)Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and viral infections. Therapeutic products containing probiotics and probiotic metabolites recommended for genitourinary heath need scientific investigations.

de Medeiros N.S., da Nóbrega F.F., Lopes P.S., de Assis C.F., Sousa Júnior F.C.

This study aimed to evaluate the biotechnological potential of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Shirota to produce biosurfactants/bioemulsifiers, lipase, and bacteriocins. The production of biosurfactants/bioemulsifiers was evaluated through a central composite rotational design (CCRD) 22. L. paracasei produced bioemulsifiers using MRS supplemented with 4.8% glycerol and pH 6 or 7. In addition, the culture supernatants of L. paracasei were tested for antioxidant, antidiabetic, and lipolytic activities. The tested supernatants did not exhibit antioxidant activity. On the other hand, they showed inhibitory activity for amyloglucosidase (20.7% and 23.9%) and lipolytic activity (16.12 and 19.00 U/mL). In addition, a CCRD 23 was performed to evaluate the production of bacteriocins. The peptone and lactose concentration variables, as well as pH positively influenced the production of bacteriocins by L. paracasei. In conclusion, L. paracasei is a viable source of antidiabetic metabolites, bacteriocins, bioemulsifiers, and lipase, suggesting that they are promising to be applied in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, environmental, food, and biomedical industries.

Santa K., Tamaki R., Watanabe K., Nagaoka I.

BackgroundAs the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic subsides, the clinical sequelae are becoming more problematic. Interestingly, the statistical data indicate that Africa has experienced the lowest number of cases and deaths, with an unexpected phenomenon where the number of deaths from COVID-19 has not increased significantly. Several studies have investigated the relationship between diet and coronavirus. However, no systematic review/meta-analysis has conclusively linked diet (phytochemicals and vitamin D) and the gut microbiota in the context of COVID-19.MethodsThis study examined the responses to COVID-19 in Japan and Africa, formulating the following hypotheses: (1) a healthy diet is effective against COVID-19, (2) blood vitamin D levels are associated with COVID-19 mortality, and (3) COVID-19 is associated with the gut microbiota. To investigate these hypotheses, a keyword search and meta-analysis were conducted using PubMed, and each hypothesis was tested.ResultsThis study found that a healthy diet, particularly rich in phytochemicals such as polyphenols and flavonoids, is effective against COVID-19. An association was detected between blood vitamin D levels and COVID-19 mortality. The gut microbiota was linked to COVID-19 and its amelioration. These findings may have significant implications for not only understanding COVID-19 but also future prevention of pneumonia.

Endo H.M., Bandeca S.C., Olchanheski L.R., Schemczssen-Graeff Z., Pileggi M.

Calcium is a secondary messenger that interacts with several cellular proteins, regulates various physiological processes, and plays a role in diseases such as viral infections. Next-generation probiotics and live biotherapeutic products are linked to the regulation of intracellular calcium levels. Some viruses can manipulate calcium channels, pumps, and membrane receptors to alter calcium influx and promote virion production and release. In this study, we examined the use of bacteria for the prevention and treatment of viral diseases, such as coronavirus of 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Vaccination programs have helped reduce disease severity; however, there is still a lack of well-recognized drug regimens for the clinical management of COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 interacts with the host cell calcium (Ca2+), manipulates proteins, and disrupts Ca2+ homeostasis. This article explores how viruses exploit, create, or exacerbate calcium imbalances, and the potential role of probiotics in mitigating viral infections by modulating calcium signaling. Pharmacological strategies have been developed to prevent viral replication and block the calcium channels that serve as viral receptors. Alternatively, probiotics may interact with cellular calcium influx, such as Lactobacillus spp. The interaction between Akkermansia muciniphila and cellular calcium homeostasis is evident. A scientific basis for using probiotics to manipulate calcium channel activity needs to be established for the treatment and prevention of viral diseases while maintaining calcium homeostasis. In this review article, we discuss how intracellular calcium signaling can affect viral replication and explore the potential therapeutic benefits of probiotics.

Alekseeva T., Krotova O., Savenkov K., Dordzhieva B., Chimidova S., Artaev T.

Dermatophytoses are a widespread group of infectious diseases known since ancient times, but still a problem even for modern clinical veterinary medicine. Despite the fact that vaccination against fungal infections for cats is a fairly common procedure in Russia, these diseases do not cease to be registered in our country. At the moment, veterinarians have increasingly begun to use systemic antifungal drugs in the treatment of animals, which show high effectiveness in combating dermatophytosis. They have a convenient application scheme, the drugs have a cumulative effect in tissues, while they do not have a toxic effect on the liver. This indicates the need to develop this topic, to develop new tools for animal immunization. It is also necessary to choose the most effective treatment regimen for this disease in order to minimize its spread among cats living in shelters, specialized kennels, and to prevent infection of people in contact with them. The development of effective methods for the treatment of dermatophytosis in cats is one of the promising areas of veterinary science and practice. since they are zooanthroponotic diseases. In most cases, human infection occurs due to his close contact with sick animals (more often cats) in case of non-compliance with sanitary and hygienic rules. Children under 7 years of age are at greater risk of infection, and a decrease in immunity significantly increases the duration of treatment for this pathology. The disease is accompanied by an increase in body temperature, headaches, intoxication syndrome, and may be complicated by the addition of a secondary bacterial infection requiring special treatment.

Murmu N., Sarkar M., Dey S., Manna R., Roy S., Mondal T., Halder S., Bhattacharjee N., Dash S.K., Giri B.

COVID-19 is a contagious, severe acute respiratory disease caused by the coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2. In this review, we have updated the nature and evolution of SARS-CoV-2 from earlier coronaviruses, highlighting the rate of mutation and pathogenicity of the virus over time. The long-term pathophysiological consequences due to COVID-19 and the application and limitations of repurposing previously established drugs used for the treatment of related symptoms have been discussed and the efficacy of newly developed drugs and vaccines against COVID-19. But these have certain limitations including post-COVID complications like tissue damage and organ failure. We have also summarized the role of natural supplements, physical exercise, yoga, and adequate sleep. Additionally, the possibilities of using mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes, in post-COVID tissue damage and organ failure have been elaborated, however, further research on manipulating these exosomes for tissue regeneration and healing is required.

Standyło A., Obuchowska A., Horaczyńska-Wojtaś A., Mielnik-Niedzielska G.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that induce health benefits to the host. The consumption of probiotics can result in both prophylactic and therapeutic effects. Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an inflammatory condition that has a significant health and economic impact worldwide. Despite its great burden on the health-care system and patients’ quality of life, the variety of therapy options for CRS is currently limited. Inflammation, mucociliary dysfunction and changes in the microbial environment are thought to be the main factors causing the disease. Probiotics are a relatively new intervention, with a focus on the probiotic qualities and adaptive elements required for a bacterial strain to have a positive impact on CRS. The aim of this review was to review studies evaluating the potential beneficial effects of probiotics in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis. Future prospects and difficulties for probiotics in CRS are also highlighted.