Yacon-based product improves intestinal hypertrophy and modulates the production of glucagon-like peptide-1 in postmenopausal experimental model.

AIMS: The progressive decline in estrogen level puts postmenopausal women at a higher risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases. Thus, we evaluated the potential beneficial effects of yacon-based product (YBP) on glycemic profile and intestinal health of postmenopausal rats. METHODS: Eighty Wistar rats were randomized into 4 ovariectomized (OVX) groups or 4 celiotomized groups treated with a standard diet (SD) or diet supplemented with YBP at 6% of fructooligosaccharide (FOS)/inulin. KEY FINDINGS: The continued consumption of YBP at 6% of FOS/inulin did not generate liver damage and gastrointestinal disorders. Rats fed with YBP displayed higher food consumption, but this did not increase the body weight gain, abdominal circumference and body fat percentual of OVX rats. Furthermore, we also found that the FOS/inulin fermentation present in the YBP resulted in cecum, ileum and colon crypts hypertrophy and increased the lactic acid levels in the cecal content. We observed an increase of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) immunoreactive cells and there was no change in the glucose and insulin plasma levels of YBP-fed OVX rats. SIGNIFICANCE: Our findings indicated that YBP when consumed previously and after the menopausal period has important effects on the morphology and function of intestinal mucous of rats and has potential to modulate indirectly the glycemic and insulinemic profiles, weight gain and body fat percentual in the hypoestrogenic period through metabolites produced in the fermentation process.

Seasonal variation in the Canastra cheese mycobiota.

Canastra cheese is the most well-known artisanal cheese produced in Brazil. Although its production includes a step to remove fungi from the cheese surface, in recent years some cheesemakers have preserved the autochthonous fungi grown during ripening due to an interest in the sensory characteristics attributed to these microorganisms. In this work, the mycobiota of artisanal cheeses produced in the Canastra region was characterized based on ITS marker gene analysis. A total of 96 artisanal cheeses from 16 different farms across 9 cities were collected during two different periods (dry and wet seasons). The Canastra cheese mycobiota was significantly impacted by the season, the city of production and the farm but altitude did not affect the fungal community of the cheeses analyzed. Debaryomyces prosopidis was most abundant in the majority of samples across both seasons. During the wet season, Trichosporon asahii, Kluyveromyces lactis and Fusarium solani were the next most abundant species, followed by Torulaspora delbrueckii and Acremonium citrinum. These results highlight the importance of manufacturing practices and seasonality on the fungal composition of Canastra cheeses. These insights are particularly important in light of recent new regulation in Brazil, removing previous obstacles for surface fungi to persist on cheese. These new regulations will allow new approaches to cheese production, and ultimately, novel products.

Evaluation of the efficacy of probiotic VSL#3 and synbiotic VSL#3 and yacon-based product in reducing oxidative stress and intestinal permeability in mice induced to colorectal carcinogenesis.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of probiotic VSL#3 isolated or associated with a yacon-based product (synbiotic) on oxidative stress modulation and intestinal permeability in an experimental model of colorectal carcinogenesis. Forty-five C57BL/6J mice were divided into three groups: control (standard diet AIN-93 M); probiotic (standard diet AIN-93 M and multispecies probiotic VSL#3, 2.25 × 109 CFU), and synbiotic (standard diet AIN-93 M with yacon-based product, 6% fructooligosaccharides and inulin, and probiotic VSL#3, 2.25 × 109 CFU). The experimental diets were provided for 13 weeks. The probiotic and the yacon-based product showed antioxidant activity, with the percentage of DPPH radical scavenging equal to 69.7 ± 0.4% and 74.3 ± 0.1%, respectively. These findings contributed to reduce hepatic oxidative stress: the control group showed higher concentration of malondialdehyde (1.8-fold, p = 0.007 and 1.5-fold, p = 0.035) and carbonylated protein (2-fold, p = 0.008 and 5.6-fold, p = 0.000) compared to the probiotic and synbiotic groups, respectively. Catalase enzyme activity increased 1.43-fold (p = 0.014) in synbiotic group. The crypt depth increased 1.2-fold and 1.4-fold with the use of probiotic and synbiotic, respectively, compared to the control diet (p = 0.000). These findings corroborate the reduction in intestinal permeability in the probiotic and synbiotic groups, as measured by the percentage of urinary lactulose excretion (CON: 0.93 ± 0.62% × PRO: 0.44 ± 0.05%, p = 0.048; and CON: 0.93 ± 0.62% × SYN: 0.41 ± 0.12%, p = 0.043). In conclusion, the probiotic and synbiotic showed antioxidant activity, which contributed to the reduction of oxidative stress markers. In addition, they protected the mucosa from damage caused by chemical carcinogen and reduced intestinal permeability. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The relationship between intestinal health and the occurrence of various organic disorders has been demonstrated in many studies. The use of probiotics and prebiotics is currently one of the main targets for modulation of intestinal health. We demonstrated that the use of a commercial mix of probiotic bacteria (VSL#3) isolated or associated with a yacon-based prebiotic, rich in fructooligosaccharides and inulin, is able to reduce the oxidative stress and intestinal permeability in a colorectal carcinogenesis model. These compounds have great potential to be used as a food supplement, or as ingredients in the development of food products.

O consumo de produto à base de yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) aumenta glucagon-like peptide-1 e diminui o peso corporal de ratas Wistar ovariectomizadas / Yacon-based product consumption (Smallanthus sonchifolius) increases glucagon-like peptide-1 and reduces the body weight of ovariectomized Wistar rats

A raiz do yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius), em função da rica concentração de fruto-oligossacarídeos, é classificada como prebiótico e tornou-se promissora da obesidade pelo aumento da saciedade. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a inclusão de um produto à base de yacon (PBY) em ratas ovariectomizadas (OVX) no consumo alimentar, na modulação de medidas antropométricas e do imunomarcador da saciedade glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) em ratas Wistar ovariectomizadas (OVX). Analisou-se o consumo alimentar pela pesagem diária de sobra de dieta, a porcentagem de gordura corporal foi determinada pelo índice de Lee e também foram avaliados o peso, o índice de massa corporal (IMC) e circunferência abdominal. Fragmentos do ceco foram utilizados para imunomarcação de GLP-1, de ratas OVX, após serem alimentadas por 24 semanas com dieta padrão adicionadas ou não de 6% de FOS/inulina/PBY. Observou-se diminuição da circunferência abdominal (p=0,2173) em 3,5%, também houve decréscimo de IMC (p=0,3822) em 6,25% e de percentual de gordura corporal (p=0,3528) em 2,14% em animais que receberam PBY durante 24 semanas (G4) comparado aos animais do grupo controle. No grupo G4 o GLP-1 aumentou (p<.0001), os animais aumentaram o consumo (p=0,0064) e, paradoxalmente, tiveram menor ganho de peso (p<.0001), o que pode estar associado ao fato de que as fibras diminuem a eficiência de absorção de lipídeos ao longo do intestino delgado, o que pode diminuir a assimilação calórica de nutrientes. Esse fenômeno demonstra que o PBY possui potencial na modulação da obesidade, portanto, melhoria da qualidade de vida de mulheres na menopausa.(AU)

The yacon root (Smallanthus sonchifolius), due to the rich concentration of fructo-oligosaccharides, is classified as prebiotic and has become promising for obesity due to increased satiety. The aim of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of a yacon-based product (PBY) in ovariectomized rats (OVX) in food consumption, in the modulation of anthropometric measurements and in the satiety immunosorbent glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in rats Wistar ovariectomized (OVX). Food consumption was analyzed by daily weighing of leftover diet, the percentage of body fat was determined by the Lee index, and weight, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were also evaluated. Cecum fragments were used for immunostaining GLP-1, from OVX rats, after being fed for 24 weeks with a standard diet with or without 6% FOS / inulin / PBY. There was a decrease in abdominal circumference (p = 0.2173) in 3.5%, there was also a decrease in BMI (p = 0.3822) in 6.25% and a percentage of body fat (p = 0.3528) 2.14% in animals that received PBY for 24 weeks (G4) compared to animals in the control group. In the G4 group GLP-1 increased (p <.0001), the animals increased their consumption (p = 0.0064) and paradoxically, they gained less weight gain (p <.0001), which may be associated with the fact that fibers decrease the efficiency of absorption of lipids along the small intestine, which can decrease the caloric assimilation of nutrients. This phenomenon demonstrates that PBY has the potential to modulate obesity, thus improving the quality of life of women in menopause. (AU)

Use of the synbiotic VSL#3 and yacon-based concentrate attenuates intestinal damage and reduces the abundance of Candidatus Saccharimonas in a colitis-associated carcinogenesis model.

Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease are at high risk of developing colitis-associated cancer; thus, strategies to inhibit disease progression should be investigated. The study aimed to explore the role of the synbiotic (probiotic VSL#3® and yacon-based concentrate) in a colitis-associated carcinogenesis model. IL-10-/- mice were induced to carcinogenesis with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine and divided into two experimental groups: control and synbiotic. Manifestations of colitis, colon histology, expression of antioxidant enzymes, production of organic acids and intestinal microbiota were evaluated. The use of the synbiotic showed benefits, such as the preservation of intestinal architecture, increased expression of antioxidant enzymes and the concentration of organic acids, especially butyrate. It was also observed different microbial community profiles between the groups during the study. Together, these factors contributed to mitigate the manifestations of colitis and improve intestinal integrity, suggesting the potential benefit of the synbiotic in intestinal diseases.

Improvement the nutritional status of pre-school children following intervention with a supplement containing iron, zinc, copper, vitamin A, vitamin C and prebiotic / Melhoria no estado nutricional de pré-escolares após intervenção com suplemento contendo ferro, zinco, cobre, vitamina A, vitamina C e prebiótico

Abstract This study investigated the effects of a vitamin and mineral fortified powder product supplemented with inulin, on the iron and vitamin A status of 110 pre-schools childrens in Viçosa, MG, Brazil. The 2 to 5-year-old children were submitted to anthropometric (weight and height), biochemical (erythrocytes, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume - MCV, mean corpuscular hemoglobin - MCH, serum iron, ferritin and serum retinol) and dietary (direct food weighing, 24 h recall, and food intake record) evaluations, at the beginning and at the end of a 45-day intervention. The supplement (30 g) was provided daily as part of the afternoon snack, diluted in 100 mL of water, 5 times/week and it supplied 30% of the recommended daily doses of iron, zinc, copper and vitamins A and C. Dietary and biochemical data was compared by the Wilcoxon test, and anthropometric data by the paired t-test. Values of z-scores for weight and height, erythrocytes, hemoglobin, MCV, MCH and ferritin were significantly higher after intervention; no change was observed in serum retinol. The prebiotic-containing supplement significantly increased the intake of energy, macro and micronutrients, and was effective in improving the iron and anthropometric status.

Resumo Este estudo investigou os efeitos de um produto em pó fortificado com vitaminas e minerais e suplementado com inulina, no estado nutricional de ferro e vitamina A de 110 crianças pré-escolares do município de Viçosa, MG, Brasil. As crianças, de 2 a 5 anos de idade, foram submetidos às avaliações antropométrica (peso e altura), bioquímica (eritrócitos, hemoglobina, volume corpuscular médio - VCM, hemoglobina corpuscular média - HCM, ferro sérico, ferritina e retinol sérico) e dietética (pesagem direta dos alimentos, recordatório de 24 h e registro alimentar), no início e ao final de uma intervenção de 45 dias. O suplemento (30 g) foi ministrado diariamente no lanche da tarde, diluído em 100 ml de água, 5 vezes/semana, fornecendo 30% das doses diárias recomendadas de ferro, zinco, cobre e vitaminas A e C. Os dados dietéticos e bioquímicos foram comparados pelo teste de Wilcoxon e, para os dados antropométricos, utilizou-se o teste-t pareado. Os valores de z-escore (peso e altura), eritrócitos, hemoglobina, VCM, HCM e ferritina foram significativamente maiores após a intervenção; nenhuma mudança foi observada no retinol sérico. O suplemento aumentou significativamente a ingestão de energia, macro e micronutrientes e foi eficaz na melhoria do estado nutricional de ferro e antropométrico.

Produto a base de yacon e modulação da microbiota, perfil de ácidos graxo e lipídico em ratas ovariectomizadas / Product based yacon and modulation of microbiota, fatty acid profile and lipid in ovariectomized female rats

RESUMO Objetivo: Este trabalho avaliou a modulação da microbiota gastrointestinal, do perfil de ácidos orgânicos e de lipídeos em ratas Wistar ovariectomizadas, sendo que algumas receberam dieta suplementada com 6% de fruto-oligossacarídeos e inulina, a partir do produto a base de yacon, e outras não. Métodos: Analisou-se o peso do ceco, pH e ácidos orgânicos, microbiota do conteúdo cecal, colesterol total e frações. Resultados: No grupo que recebeu a dieta suplementada durante todo o experimento ocorreu modulação benéfica da microbiota intestinal em função da fermentação dos fruto-oligossacarídeos/inulina, bem como aumento do perfil de lactato (p<0,05) e do nível de lipoproteina alta densidade (p<0,05). Conclusão: Isso sugere que o hábito de consumo contínuo do yacon tem potencial para modular a microbiota intestinal, o perfil de ácidos orgânicos e para diminuir as dislipidemias.

ABSTRACT Objective: Fructans, a type of inulin present in yacon based products, can modulate microbiota and fatty acid profile, performing many beneficial roles. From this perspective, this study assessed the modulation of the gastrointestinal microbiota, organic acid profile, and lipid profile of ovariectomized Wistar rats fed or not a diet containing 6% fructooligosaccharides and inulin from a yacon based product. Methods: Cecum weight, pH, and organic acids, cecal content microbiota, total cholesterol, and fractions were analyzed. Results: The group fed the diet supplemented with fructooligosaccharides and inulin during the study period experienced beneficial modulation of their intestinal microbiota stemming from fructooligosaccharide/inulin fermentation and increased lactate profile (p<0.05) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p<0.05). Conclusion: This suggests that regular yacon intake can potentially modulate the intestinal microbiota and organic acid profile, and reduce dyslipidemia.

Gut Bifidobacterium microbiota in one-month-old Brazilian newborns.

Gut colonisation with bifidobacteria in early infancy is essential for the well-being of the infant. Gestational age and mode of delivery are among the factors influencing the colonisation process. The aim was to characterise the bifidobacterial composition in the gut of one-month-old full-term and pre-term Brazilian infants, both being delivered vaginally or by caesarean section. Fourty nine Brazilian (Viçosa, Minas Gerais state) one-month-old infants were divided in two groups: full-term (n = 24) and pre-term (n = 25), and compared to each other. Each group was then characterised according to its mode of delivery. Infant stool samples were available for bifidobacterial characterisation by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method. All study infants were colonised by bifidobacteria. Bifidobacterium longum colonised all full-term and pre-term newborns. Differences were observed in counts of Bifidobacterium genus and Bifidobacterium longum between full-term and pre-term infants (8.8 log cells/g, IQR 7.9-9.1 vs. 7.1 log cells/g, IQR 6.6-8.6, p = 0.02 and 8.3 log cells/g, IQR 6.7-9.1 vs. 6.4 log cells/g, IQR 6.1-6.7, p = 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, the prevalence of Bifidobacterium lactis differed between pre-term caesarean and pre-term vaginally born infants (50.0% vs. 93.8%, p = 0.023). Gut bifidobacterial composition of one-month-old full-term infants differs from that of pre-term newborns in Viçosa, Minas Gerais state, Brazil. Gestational age is a factor influencing bacterial numbers and species, while mode of delivery have an impact on the prevalence and quantity of bifidobacteria in studied infants. Bifidobacteria may have an impact on later health of the infants and the species B. longum and B. lactis might provide clues on the potential probiotic applications in pre-term newborns at the risk of developing postnatal complications.

Defatted flaxseed meal prevents the appearance of aberrant crypt foci in the colon of mice increasing the gene expression of p53 / Harina de linaza desgrasada previene la aparición de focos de criptas aberrantes en colon de ratones aumentando de la expresión del gen de p53

Objective: The goal of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of defatted flaxseed meal on the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in mice treated with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). Materials and Methods: ACF were induced by intraperitoneal administration of 20 mg/kg body weight of DMH for 8 weeks. The animals were divided into three treatments (n=8): AIN93M diet without fibers + DMH (C-); AIN93M diet with defatted flaxseed meal (LIN); and AIN93M diet with defatted flaxseed meal + DMH (LINCA), for 15 weeks. The technique RT-PCR was used to evaluate the expression of p16, p21, p53, cyclin D1, and cyclin E in the distal colon. In addition, flow cytometric analysis of CD4 and CD8 spleen cells, the quantification of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in stool, the quantification of Bifidobacterium spp., Clostridium spp. in feces. Results: LIN and LINCA showed increased Bifidobacterium spp. compared with control (C-). In relation to the weight of the organs, the groups LIN and LINCA showed higher values for the liver and kidney compared with control (C-). Regarding ACF, the group LINCA presented fewer ACF in the middle and distal colon compared with control (C-). When we analyzed ACF with more than three crypts the group LIN and LINCA did not present ACF in the middle and distal segments. LINCA presented increased p53 gene expression. Conclusion: This finding suggests that defatted flaxseed meal reduces ACF by increasing the expression of p53 and increase Bifidobacterium spp (AU)

Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar el efecto preventivo de la harina de linaza desgrasada en el desarrollo de focos de criptas aberrantes (FCA) en ratones tratados con 1,2-dimethylhydrazina (DMH). Material y Métodos: FCA se indujo por inyección intraperitoneal de 20 mg / kg de DMH por kilogramo de peso corporal durante 8 semanas. Los animales fueron divididos en 3 grupos (n = 8): dieta sin fibra de la dieta AIN93M DMH + (C); Dieta AIN93M con harina de linaza desgrasada (LIN); dieta AIN93M y la dieta con harina de linaza desgrasada + DMH (Enlace) durante 15 semanas. RT-PCR se utilizó para evaluar la expresión de p16, p21, p53, ciclina D1, ciclina E y el colon distal. Los análisis CD4 y CD8 se realizaron con citometría de flujo, así como la cuantificación presencia de Bifidobacterium spp. y de Clostridium spp. en las heces. La cuantificación de ácidos grasos de cadena corta (AGCC) fue realizada por lo método de cromatografía de gas. Resultados: LIN y LINCA mostraron un aumento significativo de Bifidobacterium spp., en comparación con el control (C) (p<0,05). Con relación al peso de los órganos, los grupos LIN y LINCA mostraron valores aumentados de hígado y riñón en comparación con el control (C) (p<0,05). En cuanto a la FCA, los grupos FCA LINCA mostró menor en los dos puntos media y distal en comparación con el control (C) (p <0,05). Cuando analizamos FCA con más de tres focos de criptas aberrantes, los grupos LIN y LINCA no presentaron FCA en los segmentos medial y distal, en contraste con el grupo control (p <0,05). LINCA mostró aumento de la expresión del gen p53 (p <0,05). Conclusión: Estos resultados sugieren que la harina de linaza desgrasada reduce FCA, para aumentar la expresión de p53 (AU)

Defatted flaxseed meal prevents the appearance of aberrant crypt foci in the colon of mice increasing the gene expression of p53.

OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of defatted flaxseed meal on the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in mice treated with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: ACF were induced by intraperitoneal administration of 20 mg/kg body weight of DMH for 8 weeks. The animals were divided into three treatments (n=8): AIN93M diet without fibers + DMH (C-); AIN93M diet with defatted flaxseed meal (LIN); and AIN93M diet with defatted flaxseed meal + DMH (LINCA), for 15 weeks. The technique RT-PCR was used to evaluate the expression of p16, p21, p53, cyclin D1, and cyclin E in the distal colon. In addition, flow cytometric analysis of CD4 and CD8 spleen cells, the quantification of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in stool, the quantification of Bifidobacterium spp., Clostridium spp. in feces. RESULTS: LIN and LINCA showed increased Bifidobacterium spp. compared with control (C-). In relation to the weight of the organs, the groups LIN and LINCA showed higher values for the liver and kidney compared with control (C-). Regarding ACF, the group LINCA presented fewer ACF in the middle and distal colon compared with control (C-). When we analyzed ACF with more than three crypts the group LIN and LINCA did not present ACF in the middle and distal segments. LINCA presented increased p53 gene expression. CONCLUSION: This finding suggests that defatted flaxseed meal reduces ACF by increasing the expression of p53 and increase Bifidobacterium spp.

OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of defatted flaxseed meal on the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in mice treated with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: ACF were induced by intraperitoneal administration of 20 mg/kg body weight of DMH for 8 weeks. The animals were divided into three treatments (n=8): AIN93M diet without fibers + DMH (C-); AIN93M diet with defatted flaxseed meal (LIN); and AIN93M diet with defatted flaxseed meal + DMH (LINCA), for 15 weeks. The technique RT-PCR was used to evaluate the expression of p16, p21, p53, cyclin D1, and cyclin E in the distal colon. In addition, flow cytometric analysis of CD4 and CD8 spleen cells, the quantification of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in stool, the quantification of Bifidobacterium spp., Clostridium spp. in feces. RESULTS: LIN and LINCA showed increased Bifidobacterium spp. compared with control (C-). In relation to the weight of the organs, the groups LIN and LINCA showed higher values for the liver and kidney compared with control (C-). Regarding ACF, the group LINCA presented fewer ACF in the middle and distal colon compared with control (C-). When we analyzed ACF with more than three crypts the group LIN and LINCA did not present ACF in the middle and distal segments. LINCA presented increased p53 gene expression. CONCLUSION: This finding suggests that defatted flaxseed meal reduces ACF by increasing the expression of p53 and increase Bifidobacterium spp.

Prebiotics prevent the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in the colon of BALB/c mice for increasing the gene expression of p16 protein.

UNLABELLED: Studies have shown fibers to be effective in reducing the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in rodents. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of fructooligosaccharide (FOS) and inulin prebiotics on the appearance of ACF in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The techniques used were: RT-PCR to evaluate the gene expression of p16, p21, p54, cyclin D1 and cyclin E in the distal colon; the quantification of Number of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) and measurement of catalase activity in the liver and distal colon. The animals were divided into five treatments (n=8); C-: AIN93M diet without fibers + DMH (1,2-dimethylhydrazine); INL: AIN93M diet with inulin; INLCA: AIN93M diet with inulin + DMH; FOS: AIN93M diet with FOS; FOSCA: AIN93M diet with FOS + DMH, during 15 weeks. RESULTS: Inulin prevented the appearance of ACF in the proximal, middle and distal colon, compared to the control without fibers. In the middle and distal colon, FOS was also effective in preventing the incidence of ACF. This effectiveness may be attributed to the increased gene expression of p16 following FOS treatment. Both prebiotics also decreased catalase activity in the distal colon, thus suggesting an antioxidant effect. CONCLUSION: These results suggesting an antioxidant effect prebiotics that may be attributed to the increased gene expression of p16.

Existen estudios que demuestran la eficacia de fibras para reducir la aparición de focos de cripta aberrantes (FCA) en roedores. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio consistió en investigar los efectos preventivos de los fructooligosacáridos (FOS) y el prebiótico inulina sobre la aparición de FCA en ratones. Materiales y métodos: Las técnicas empleadas fueron: RT-PCR para evaluar la expresión génica de p16, p21, p54, ciclina D1 y ciclina E en el colon distal; la cuantificación del Número de FCA y la medición de la actividad de la catalasa en el hígado y el colon distal. Los animales fueron divididos en cinco tratamientos (n=8); C-: dieta AIN93M sin fibra + DMH (1.2-dimetilhidrazina); INL: dieta AIN93M con inulina; INLCA: dieta AIN93M con inulina + DMH; FOS: dieta ANIN93M con FOS; FOSCA: dieta AIN93M con FOS + DMH, durante 15 semanas. Resultados: La inulina previno la aparición de FCA en el colon proximal, medio y distal, comparado con el control sin fibras. En el colon medio y distal, FOS también fue efectiva para prevenir la incidencia de FCA. Esta efectividad podría ser atribuida al aumento de la expresión génica de p16 tras el tratamiento con FOS. Ambos prebióticos también disminuyeron la actividad de la catalasa en el colon distal, lo que sugiere un efecto antioxidante. Conclusión: Estos resultados sugieren un efecto antioxidante de los prebióticos que podría atribuirse a un aumento de la expresión génica de p16.

Prebiotics prevent the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in the colon of Balb/C mice for increasing the gene expression of p16 protein / Los prebióticos previenen la aparición de focos de cripta aberrantes (FCA) en el colon de ratones Balb/C para aumentar la expresión génica de la proteína P16

Studies have shown fibers to be effective in reducing the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in rodents. Objective: The goal of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of fructooligosaccharide (FOS) and inulin prebiotics on the appearance of ACF in mice. Materials and Methods: The techniques used were: RT-PCR to evaluate the gene expression of p16, p21, p54, cyclin D1 and cyclin E in the distal colon; the quantification of Number of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) and measurement of catalase activity in the liver and distal colon. The animals were divided into five treatments (n=8); C-: AIN93M diet without fibers + DMH (1,2-dimethylhydrazine); INL: AIN93M diet with inulin; INLCA: AIN93M diet with inulin + DMH; FOS: AIN93M diet with FOS; FOSCA: AIN93M diet with FOS + DMH, during 15 weeks. Results: Inulin prevented the appearance of ACF in the proximal, middle and distal colon, compared to the control without fibers. In the middle and distal colon, FOS was also effective in preventing the incidence of ACF. This effectiveness may be attributed to the increased gene expression of p16 following FOS treatment. Both prebiotics also decreased catalase activity in the distal colon, thus suggesting an antioxidant effect. Conclusion: These results suggesting an antioxidant effect prebiotics that may be attributed to the increased gene expression of p16 (AU)

Existen estudios que demuestran la eficacia de fibras para reducir la aparición de focos de cripta aberrantes (FCA) en roedores. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio consistió en investigar los efectos preventivos de los fructooligosacáridos (FOS) y el prebiótico inulina sobre la aparición de FCA en ratones. Materiales y métodos: Las técnicas empleadas fueron: RT-PCR para evaluar la expresión génica de p16, p21, p54, ciclina D1 y ciclina E en el colon distal; la cuantificación del Número de FCA y la medición de la actividad de la catalasa en el hígado y el colon distal. Los animales fueron divididos en cinco tratamientos (n=8); C-: dieta AIN93M sin fibra + DMH (1.2-dimetilhidrazina); INL: dieta AIN93M con inulina; INLCA: dieta AIN93M con inulina + DMH; FOS: dieta ANIN93M con FOS; FOSCA: dieta AIN93M con FOS + DMH, durante 15 semanas. Resultados: La inulina previno la aparición de FCA en el colon proximal, medio y distal, comparado con el control sin fibras. En el colon medio y distal, FOS también fue efectiva para prevenir la incidencia de FCA. Esta efectividad podría ser atribuida al aumento de la expresión génica de p16 tras el tratamiento con FOS. Ambos prebióticos también disminuyeron la actividad de la catalasa en el colon distal, lo que sugiere un efecto antioxidante. Conclusión: Estos resultados sugieren un efecto antioxidante de los prebióticos que podría atribuirse a un aumento de la expresión génica de p16 (AU)

Evaluation of the subchronic toxicity of kefir by oral administration in Wistar rats / Evaluación de la toxicidad subcrónica del kéfir por administración oral en ratas Wistar

Introduction: Kefir is obtained by fermentation of milk with complex microbial populations present in kefir grains. Several health-promoting benefits have been attributed to kefir consumption. Objective: The objective of this work was to conduct a subchronic toxicity study, offering the rats normal or high-doses of kefir and evaluating growth, hematology and blood chemistry, as well as assessing bacterial translocation and the integrity of the intestinal mucosa of animals. Methods: Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups (n = 6/group): control group received 0.7 mL of water, kefir group received 0.7 mL/day of kefir, (normodose), and Hkefir group received 3.5 mL/day of kefir (fivefold higher dose). Feeding was carried out by gavage. The animals were housed in individual cages and maintained under standard conditions for 4 weeks. Results: The normodose and high-dose of kefir supplementation did not harm the animals since growth, hematology and blood chemistry in rats, as well as the potential pathogenicity in tissues were within normal limits, demonstrating that consumption of normodose and highdose of kefir are safe. In addition, administration of the normodose of kefir reduced cholesterol levels and improved the intestinal mucosa of the rats. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that the consumption of kefir is safe. Importantly, while damages are not seen for the high-dose, the normodose consumption is recommended due to the pronounced beneficial effects, as safety is concerned (AU)

Introducción: El kéfir es obtenido por fermentación de la leche con una población microbiana compleja presente en sus granos. Al consumo de kéfir se le atribuyen múltiples efectos beneficiosos sobre la salud. Objetivo: Evaluar la toxicidad subcrónica del kéfir en ratas Wistar, administrado por vía oral en dosis normal (normodosis) y sobredosis. Se evaluaron además, los parámetros de peso corporal, hematología, química sanguínea, translocación bacteriana e integridad de la mucosa intestinal. Métodos: Se conformaron tres grupos de seis animales de manera aleatoria: grupo control, recibió 0,7 mL de agua; grupo kéfir recibió 0,7 mL/día de kéfir (normodosis) y grupo Hkéfir recibió 3,5 mL/día de kéfir (dosis cinco veces superior). La administración se llevó a cabo mediante sonda. Los animales se alojaron individualmente, y se mantuvieron bajo las mismas condiciones de manejo y alimentación durante 4 semanas. Resultados: La administración de kéfir en dosis normal y sobredosis no afectó los parámetros evaluados en los animales, el peso corporal, indicadores hematológicos, de química sanguínea, y la patogenicidad potencial en los tejidos se encontraron dentro de límites normales, lo que demostró que el consumo de kéfir en dosis normal y sobredosis es seguro. Además, se evidenció que la administración de normodosis de kéfir redujo los niveles de colesterol y mejoró la mucosa intestinal de las ratas. Conclusión: Se demostró que el consumo de kéfir es seguro. Destacar que, la administración de sobredosis no evidenció daños, no obstante, se recomienda el consumo de normodosis, debido a los marcados efectos beneficiosos y de seguridad (AU)

Microbiological aspects of the biofilm on wooden utensils used to make a Brazilian artisanal cheese

The artisanal Minas cheese is produced from raw cow's milk and wooden utensils were employed in its manufacture, which were replaced by other materials at the request of local laws. This substitution caused changes in the traditional characteristics of cheese. Due to the absence of scientific studies indicating the microbial composition of biofilms formed on wooden forms, tables and shelves used in these cheese production, the present work evaluated the counts of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, coliforms at 32 °C, yeasts, presumptive mesophilic Lactobacillus spp. and Lactococcus spp. in these biofilms, milk, whey endogenous culture and ripened cheese in two traditional regions: Serro and Serra da Canastra. Also, we checked for the presence of Salmonella sp. and Listeria monocytogenes in the ripened cheeses. The ultra structure of the biofilms was also assessed. Counts above legislation (> 2 log cfu/mL) for the pathogens evaluated were found in milk samples from both regions. Only one shelf and one form from Serro were above limits proposed (5 cfu/cm² for S. aureus and E. coli and 25 cfu/cm² for coliforms) in this study for contaminants evaluated. In Canastra, few utensils presented safe counting of pathogens. There was no Salmonella sp. and Listeria monocytogenes in the cheeses after ripening. Thus, the quality of the cheese is related to improving the microbiological quality of milk, implementation and maintenance of good manufacturing practices, correct cleaning of wooden utensils, and not its replacement.

Evaluation of antagonistic activity of milk fermented with kefir grains of different origins

In this study, the potential of kefir grains, obtained from three different towns/cities in the Southeast Region of Brazil to inhibit the growth of the five pathogenic microorganisms was evaluated. The samples showed the growth inhibition from 42.80-69.15 for Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, 30.73-59.89 for Escherichia coli ATCC 11229, 44.99-73.05 for Salmonela typhi ATCC 6539, 41.45-54.18 for Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 15313 and 70.38-86.80 for Bacillus cereus RIBO 1222-173-S4. These results indicated that the kefir grains evaluated had antagonistic activity toward the different pathogens tested. The ability to inhibit, although differently depending on the regional microbiota, indicated a potential for their use as a functional food.

The genus Enterococcus as probiotic: safety concerns

Species from the genus Enterococcus have been used as probiotic for humans or animals, although this genus is not considered "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS). While enterococci are considered "positive" in food technology, isolates of this genus have emerged as opportunistic pathogens for the humans. The aim of this review is to summarize the characteristics that can determine the use of this genus as probiotics. According to the guidelines used to define the genus Enterococcus strains as probiotic a case-by-case evaluation of each potential technological strain is presented and research perspectives for using enterococci as probiotic is also discussed.

Análise descritiva de iogurte light suplementado com farinha de yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) / Descriptive analysis of light yogurt supplemented with yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) flour

A farinha de yacon é ingrediente alimentar rico em fibras, especialmente fruto oligossacarídeos (FOS) e inulina, considerados como prebióticos. Neste estudo, foram produzidos iogurtes light suplementados com 1,58%, 2,56%, 3,00% e 3,86% de farinha de yacon e quantificados os teores de fibras. O efeito da concentração de farinha de yacon foi avaliado no perfil sensorial e na aceitabilidade dos produtos. A quantidade de farinha de yacon foi estimada para obter iogurtes que poderiam ser classificados como fontes de fibra alimentar total (FAT), inulina e/ou FOS. A FAT foi mensurada pelo método enzimático gravimétrico, e FOS e inulina por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência. O painel sensorial avaliou 11 atributos pelo método espectro (n = 9) e a aceitabilidade (n = 92) pela escala hedônica de nove pontos. Os resultados foram analisados por meio de Anova e regressão. Os iogurtes contendo 2,56% a 3,86% de farinha de yacon podem ser considerados como fontes de FAT. No perfil sensorial, os descritores para aparência, textura, aroma e sabor de yacon aumentaram linearmente (p < 0,01) com adição de farinha de yacon. Não houve mudança nos gostos doce e ácido, porém o aroma fermentado diminuiu com a suplementação. Houve maior aceitação de iogurtes com menor quantidade de farinha de yacon.

Farinha de yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius): produção e caracterização química / Production and chemical characterization of yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) flour

Os objetivos deste trabalho foram produzir farinha da polpa de yacon, avaliar a viabilidade do processo e caracterizar sua composição química. As análises da composição centesimal foram realizadas de acordo com a metodologia da Associação Científica Dedicada à Excelência Analítica (AOAC). Os teores de fibras alimentares foram analisados pela técnica enzimático-gravimétrica, os açúcares e frutooligos sacarídeos- FOS por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência, e os minerais por espectrofotometria de emissão de plasma. De 115,5 kg de yacon in natura foram produzidas 9,6 kg de farinha com a seguinte composição química: 6,9 g.100 g-1 de umidade; 2,7 g.100 g-1 de proteínas; 0,15 g.100 g-1 de lipídios; 5,4 g.100 g-1 decinzas; 25,7 g.100 g-1 de oligofrutanos; 38,95 g.100 g-1 de carboidratos totais; 0,05 g.100 g-1 de cálcio; 0,21g.100 g-1 de fósforo e 0,18 g.100 g-1 de magnésio. O processo de produção da farinha favoreceu o aumento da vida útil do yacon. Torna-se também importante a disponibilidade de yacon no mercado na forma de farinha para facilitar sua utilização no preparo de produtos de panificação e, ainda, para que esse produto seja encontrado em qualquer época do ano.

Composição do leite humano e microbiota predominantemente bífida do lactente em aleitamento materno exclusivo / Composition of the human milk and microbiota predominantly bífida of the infant in exclusive maternal breast feeding

O leite humano constitui-se em alimento rico em nutrientes e fatores de proteção para o bebê, que a partir do nascimento, através do parto, no contato com a mãe e meio ambiente, passa a ter o trato intestinal colonizado por microrganismos. A composição do leite humano pode apresentar variações quanto à vitaminas, lactoferrina, oligossacarídeos, ácidos graxos e minerais, entre outros componentes. O desenvolvimento da microbiota intestinal é favorecido em lactentes em aleitamento exclusivo devido aos componentes do leite humano humano que são fatores promotores do crescimento de bactérias bifídas. Este microrganismo apresenta características protetoras competindo com potenciais patógenos, por exclusão competitiva, produção de ácidos orgânicos e conseqüente redução do pH...

Viabilidade de Bfidobacterium longum em leite esterilizado e armazenado sob refrigeração / Viability of Bifidobacterium longum in sterilized milk maintained under refrigeration

É cada vez maior o interesse em se verificar as propriedades profiláticas e terapêuticas de produtos lácteos, fermentados ou não, contendo microrganismos probióticos como estirpes dos gêneros Bifidobacterium e Lactobacillus. Desde o início do século XX, no Instituto Pasteur, quando Metcnhikoff sugeriu pela primeira vez que a ingestão desses produtos poderia causar benefícios ao hospedeiro, pesquisas científicas vêm sendo conduzidas, intensivamente, buscando-se determinar a maneira pela qual esses microrganismos contribuem para a saúde humana e animal. Propôs-se o desenvolvimento de um leite "sweet" (não-fermentado), adicionado de um concentrado celular de Bifidobacterium longum (ATCC 15707 - UFVCC 1006) e verificou-se a viabilidade das bactérias no produto mantido sob refrigeração durante trinta dias. Leite cru, obtido da Usina Piloto do Departamento de Tecnologia de Alimentos da Universidade Federal de Viçosa, foi desnatado e esterilizado a 121ºC/15min. Antes do tratamento térmico, foram feitas as análises de rotina e microbiológicas. Após o tratamento térmico, a amostra foi dividida em duas porções: Teste, adicionada do concentrado celular LEB (Leite Esterilizado adicionado de Bifidobacterium longum) e Controle chamado LEC (Leite Esterilizado sem a adição de Bifidobacterium longum). As amostras teste e controle foram armazenadas sob refrigeração (7ºC) e verificou-se a viabilidade de Bifidobacterium longum expressa em UFC/mL nos períodos de 0,7, 14, 21,28 e 30 dias. Os dados encontrados das amostras adicionadas ou não de bactérias bífidas foram analisados por meio de análise de regressão (teste de t, significativo a 5 por cento e 1 por cento). De acordo com a metodologia empregada os dados obtidos sugerem que leite desnatado esterilizado pode veicular células viáveis de Bifidobacterium longum, pois as características físico-químicas não foram alteradas de maneira significativa e o número de células viáveis manteve-se acima de 1000000 UFC/mL, durante 30 dias de armazenamento a 7ºC, suficientes para atender as características funcionais de produtos probióticos.