Does the Composition of Gut Microbiota Affect Chronic Kidney Disease? Molecular Mechanisms Contributed to Decreasing Glomerular Filtration Rate.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a very prevalent and insidious disease, particularly with initially poorly manifested symptoms that progressively culminate in the manifestation of an advanced stage of the condition. The gradual impairment of kidney function, particularly decreased filtration capacity, results in the retention of uremic toxins and affects numerous molecular mechanisms within the body. The dysbiotic intestinal microbiome plays a crucial role in the accumulation of protein-bound uremic toxins such as p-cresol (pC), indoxyl sulfate (IS), and p-cresyl sulfate (p-CS) through the ongoing fermentation process. The described phenomenon leads to an elevated level of oxidative stress and inflammation, subsequently resulting in tissue damage and complications, particularly an increase in cardiovascular risk, representing the predominant cause of mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Therefore, exploring methods to reduce uremic toxins is currently a pivotal therapeutic strategy aimed at reducing the risk of organ damage in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This review aims to summarize recent discoveries on modifying the composition of the intestinal microbiota through the introduction of special probiotic and synbiotic supplements for CKD therapy. The potential to connect the gut microbiota with CKD opens the possibility for further extensive research in this area, which could lead to the incorporation of synbiotics and probiotics into the fundamental treatment and prevention of CKD.

Does the Composition of Gut Microbiota Affect Hypertension? Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Increasing Blood Pressure.

Arterial hypertension is a chronic disease which is very prevalent contemporarily. The aim of this review was to investigate the impact of gut microbiota on the development and potential treatment of hypertension, taking into consideration underlying molecular mechanisms. The bacteria present in the intestines have the ability to secrete different metabolites, which might play a significant role in the regulation of blood pressure. The most important include short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), vasoactive hormones, trimethylamine (TMA) and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and uremic toxins, such as indoxyl sulfate (IS) and p-cresyl sulfate (PCS). Their action in regulating blood pressure is mainly based on their pro- or anti-inflammatory function. The use of specifically formulated probiotics to modify the composition of gut microbiota might be a beneficial way of supportive treatment of hypertension; however, further research on this topic is needed to choose the species of bacteria that could induce the hypotensive pattern.

Molecular Processes Involved in the Shared Pathways between Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes.

Cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus are currently among the diseases with the highest morbidity and mortality. The pathogenesis and development of these diseases remain strongly connected, along with inflammation playing a major role. Therefore, the treatment possibilities showing a positive impact on both of these diseases could be especially beneficial for patients. SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists present this dual effect. Moreover, the hostile composition of the gut microbiota could influence the progression of these conditions. In this review, the authors present the latest knowledge on and innovations in diabetes mellitus and CVD-with the focus on the molecular mechanisms and the role of the microbiota.

How has the pandemic lockdown changed our daily facial skincare habits?

BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Poland implemented widespread closure of beauty and cosmetic services to control the virus spread. AIMS: The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on home face care of women and to analyze changes that have occurred in their daily habits. PATIENTS/METHODS: An online survey was completed by 412 women living in Poland during the spring lockdown. Questions addressed changes in face care during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Our questionnaire showed that during the lockdown, women were more interested in face skincare, more often followed the procedure of full home skincare. And after implementing the changes in skincare, they saw a good impact on their skin. The significance of the Internet also increased considerably, not only as a source of knowledge in the field of cosmetology but also as a thriving market selling cosmetic products.