Our Summary

In simpler terms, this research was aimed at understanding how a certain type of bacteria (Lactobacillus rhamnosus Gorbach-Goldin, or LGG for short) can help improve gut health, specifically in rats with a condition called short bowel syndrome (SBS). This syndrome happens when a large part of the small intestine is missing or not working properly, which can cause a number of health problems.

The researchers used rats that had 80% of their small intestines removed to simulate SBS. They then treated these rats with either just water, the bacteria LGG, or just the soluble elements from LGG (referred to as LSM).

They found that the rats with SBS had more permeable intestines (meaning substances could pass through more easily) and less of certain proteins that help hold intestinal cells together, compared to healthy rats. However, the rats treated with LGG or LSM showed less permeability and more of these proteins, suggesting a healthier gut. They also had fewer harmful bacteria in their system and less inflammation, which is often associated with disease.

Interestingly, the rats treated with LSM also gained more weight and showed even better gut health signs than the ones treated with the actual bacteria. This suggests that it might be the soluble elements of the bacteria, rather than the bacteria themselves, that are beneficial for gut health.

In conclusion, this study indicates that LSM or LGG treatment could potentially help improve gut health in cases of SBS. The LSM treatment, in particular, could be more effective in reducing inflammation and supporting gut health.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the study on intestinal barrier function in a rat model of short bowel syndrome (SBS)?
  2. What were the effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus Gorbach-Goldin (LGG) on the intestinal barrier function in the rat model of SBS?
  3. How did the LGG soluble mediators (LSM) affect the rat model of SBS compared to viable LGG?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may advise a patient who has undergone intestinal resection to consider incorporating probiotics, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus Gorbach-Goldin (LGG), into their diet. Probiotics have been shown to help support intestinal barrier function and reduce inflammation in the gut, which can be beneficial for those recovering from intestinal surgery. Additionally, the use of soluble mediator preparations derived from probiotics, like LGG, may provide even greater benefits in promoting intestinal health and reducing complications such as bacterial translocation. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplementation regimen.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended intestinal resection include those with short bowel syndrome (SBS) who have undergone small-bowel resection. This may be due to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, bowel obstruction, ischemic bowel disease, or certain types of cancer. In these cases, supplementation with soluble mediator preparations derived from probiotic strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus Gorbach-Goldin (LGG) may help improve intestinal barrier function and reduce inflammation.

Timeline

Before intestinal resection:

  • Patient undergoes 80% small-bowel resection
  • Surgery is performed to remove damaged or diseased sections of the intestine
  • Patient may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition
  • Patient may have impaired intestinal barrier function, leading to increased intestinal permeability and bacterial translocation

After intestinal resection:

  • Patient is supplemented with either water, viable LGG, or LGG soluble mediators
  • Intestinal permeability and bacterial translocation are reduced in patients receiving LGG or LSM supplementation
  • Inflammatory cytokines and tight junction protein expression in the ileum are improved with supplementation
  • Body weight gain is observed in patients receiving LSM supplementation
  • LSM supplementation is more effective in reducing inflammation and supporting intestinal barrier function compared to viable LGG

Overall, enteral supplementation of LSMs or viable LGG can ameliorate intestinal barrier disruption in a rat model of short bowel syndrome.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of an intestinal resection and what can I expect during the procedure?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with intestinal resection?
  3. How long is the recovery period after intestinal resection and what can I do to aid in my recovery?
  4. Will I need a special diet or medication following intestinal resection?
  5. How will intestinal resection affect my digestion and bowel movements?
  6. Are there any long-term effects or complications I should be aware of after intestinal resection?
  7. Will I need any follow-up appointments or tests to monitor my intestinal health after the procedure?
  8. Are there any alternatives to intestinal resection that I should consider?
  9. How can I best support my intestinal health and prevent future issues after intestinal resection?
  10. Can you provide more information about the effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus Gorbach-Goldin (LGG) and its soluble mediators on intestinal barrier function, and how it may benefit me in my recovery from intestinal resection?

Reference

Authors: Wu J, Yang K, Wu W, Tang Q, Zhong Y, Gross G, Lambers TT, van Tol EAF, Cai W. Journal: JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2018 Aug;42(6):1026-1034. doi: 10.1002/jpen.1044. Epub 2018 Jan 9. PMID: 30133842