Analysis of the fermentation kinetics and gut microbiota modulatory effect of dried chicory root reveals the impact of the plant-cell matrix rationalizing its conversion in the distal colon.

The cell matrix of plant foods has received little attention in prebiotic fiber research. We aimed to understand the impact of the plant cell matrix in dried chicory root on its breakdown in the human gut to explain its reported beneficial effects on gut and metabolic health. We applied digestion and fermentation models together with an gut barrier integrity model.

The Gut-Organ Axis within the Human Body: Gut Dysbiosis and the Role of Prebiotics.

The human gut microbiota (GM) is a complex microbial ecosystem that colonises the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and is comprised of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. The GM has a symbiotic relationship with its host that is fundamental for body homeostasis. The GM is not limited to the scope of the GIT, but there are bidirectional interactions between the GM and other organs, highlighting the concept of the "gut-organ axis".

In Vitro Fermentation of Edible Mushrooms: Effects on Faecal Microbiota Characteristics of Autistic and Neurotypical Children.

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often suffer gastrointestinal disturbances consistent with gut microbiota (GM) alterations. Treatment with pro/prebiotics may potentially alleviate gut symptoms, but the evidence for prebiotics is scarce. This study aims to evaluate the effects of edible mushrooms (, Basidiomycota) and prebiotic compounds on GM composition and metabolite production in vitro, using faecal samples from autistic and non-autistic children.

In Vitro Fermentation of Mushrooms by Human Fecal Microbiota: Metataxonomic Analysis and Metabolomic Profiling of Fermentation Products.

Edible mushrooms contain biologically active compounds with antioxidant, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory and anticancer properties. The link between their anticancer and immunomodulatory properties with their possible prebiotic activity on gut micro-organisms has been the subject of intense research over the last decade. Lyophilized Pleurotus eryngii (PE) mushrooms, selected due to their strong lactogenic effect and anti-genotoxic, immunomodulatory properties, underwent in vitro static batch fermentation for 24 h by fecal microbiota from eight elderly apparently healthy volunteers (>65 years old).

Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Gliomas: Systematic Review and Critical Appraisal of Current Literature.

Background: Many patients with glioma and their caregivers seek complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) methods to comfort themselves, cope with cancer medication side effects, and feel they are taking control of their disease.

Objective: To summarize existing evidence on safety and efficacy of CAM treatments for gliomas.

Methods: We performed an exhaustive electronic literature search for in vitro, animal, and clinical studies (English language, all years available) on CAM modalities for gliomas.