Impact of Biometric Patient Data, Probiotic Supplementation, and Selected Gut Microorganisms on Calprotectin, Zonulin, and sIgA Concentrations in the Stool of Adults Aged 18-74 Years.

Alterations to the intestinal barrier may be involved in the pathogenesis of various chronic diseases. The diagnosis of mucosal barrier disruption has become a new therapeutic target for disease prevention. The aim of this study was to determine whether various patient demographic and biometric data, often not included in diagnostic analyses, may affect calprotectin, zonulin, and sIgA biomarker values. Stool markers' levels in 160 samples were measured colorimetrically. The analysis of twenty key bacteria (15 genera and 5 species) was carried out on the basis of diagnostic tests, including cultures and molecular tests. The concentrations of selected markers were within reference ranges for most patients. The sIgA level was significantly lower in participants declaring probiotics supplementation (p = 0.0464). We did not observe differences in gastrointestinal discomfort in participants. We found significant differences in the sIgA level between the 29-55 years and >55 years age-related intervals groups (p = 0.0191), together with a significant decreasing trend (p = 0.0337) in age-dependent sIgA concentration. We observed complex interdependencies and relationships between their microbiota and the analyzed biomarkers. For correct clinical application, standardized values of calprotectin and sIgA should be determined, especially in elderly patients. We observed a correlation between the composition of the gut community and biomarker levels, although it requires further in-depth analysis.

Postoperative supplementation of propionate and silicon dioxide in patients after total gastrectomy - preliminary report.

INTRODUCTION: Post-operative impairment of gastrointestinal tract function and metabolic consequences occur in patients after gastrectomy by Roux-en-Y method. Short-chain fatty acids and silicon dioxide may prove beneficial in the treatment of these conditions. AIM: To evaluate a preparation containing propionic acid and silicon dioxide on the body weight, number of stools and their consistency (the Bristol scale), and pain and a feeling of gastric fullness after a meal, in patients after gastrectomy by Roux-en-Y method. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Measurements were performed at the beginning of the study, on day 7 and 14 of application (Colostop®; Miralex, 2 × 15 g/day). RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Initially the average daily number of movements was 10/day, after the therapy it was 3.8/day. At the beginning of the study, 3 patients described their faeces as type 6 and two as type 7 on the Bristol scale. After supplementation, 3 patients described stool consistency as type 5, and two as type 4. Initially, patients rated their pain at 3.4/10 on average, the stomach fullness as 4.6/10. At the end of the study, 3 patients did not feel any pain, while others reported pain at 1/10. Four patients described their feeling of gastric fullness as 1/10, and 1 no longer observed this feeling. Patients disclaimed any adverse effects, and satisfaction after therapy reached 9-10/10 points. Patients' body weight did not change significantly. An improvement in standard diet tolerance was observed. Despite the limited study group, clinical benefits of the supplementation were observed.