Microbial lysate upregulates host oxytocin.

Neuropeptide hormone oxytocin has roles in social bonding, energy metabolism, and wound healing contributing to good physical, mental and social health. It was previously shown that feeding of a human commensal microbe Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) is sufficient to up-regulate endogenous oxytocin levels and improve wound healing capacity in mice. Here we show that oral L. reuteri-induced skin wound repair benefits extend to human subjects. Further, dietary supplementation with a sterile lysate of this microbe alone is sufficient to boost systemic oxytocin levels and improve wound repair capacity. Oxytocin-producing cells were found to be increased in the caudal paraventricular nucleus [PVN] of the hypothalamus after feeding of a sterile lysed preparation of L. reuteri, coincident with lowered blood levels of stress hormone corticosterone and more rapid epidermal closure, in mouse models. We conclude that microbe viability is not essential for regulating host oxytocin levels. The results suggest that a peptide or metabolite produced by bacteria may modulate host oxytocin secretion for potential public or personalized health goals.

Building Genetic Competence Through Partnerships and Interactive Models.

BACKGROUND: Nurses are increasingly using genetic-directed therapies in routine care, but evidence indicates that nurse educators lack knowledge about basic genetic concepts and related clinical implications. Educators are the key to preparing future nurses for effective practice in the genomic era, and creative approaches are needed for faculty development. METHOD: Nurse educators in academic and clinical settings partnered with science educators who use sophisticated DNA, RNA, and protein models to explore ways to teach abstract genetic concepts. RESULTS: Hands-on learning enabled the workshop participants to understand how transcription of gene mutations leads to the translation of defective proteins responsible for specific diseases. Participants found using the models helped clarified complex concepts that occur at the cellular level. CONCLUSION: Partnerships with science educators can address gaps in nurse educators' knowledge about genetics and introduce creative teaching strategies. [J Nurs Educ. 2016;55(5):300-303.].