Effects of Scallop Mantle Toxin on Intestinal Microflora and Intestinal Barrier Function in Mice

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Previous research linked Japanese scallop mantle tissue to severe liver and kidney damage in mice.
• Scallop consumption is widespread, necessitating an understanding of potential toxicological risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the toxicity of scallop mantle from China's coastal areas.
• To investigate the impact of scallop mantle toxins (SMT) on intestinal barrier integrity and gut microbiota in mice.

Main Methods:

• Mice were exposed to scallop mantle toxins (SMT).
• Gut microbiota alterations were analyzed using Illumina MiSeq sequencing of 16S ribosomal RNA V3-V4 regions.
• Serum indexes related to liver, intestine, inflammation, and kidney function were measured.

Main Results:

• SMT exposure decreased intestinal flora abundance and diversity.
• Significant increases in serum indexes for liver, intestine, inflammation, and kidney function were observed in SMT-exposed mice.
• Beneficial bacteria (Muribaculaceae, Marinifilaceae) decreased, while harmful bacteria (Enterobacteriaceae, Helicobacter) increased.

Conclusions:

• SMT disrupts the gut microbiota equilibrium and damages the intestinal mucosal barrier.
• SMT exposure leads to inflammation, glucose metabolism disorder, and intestinal dysfunction.
• These effects contribute to systemic toxicity, highlighting the health risks associated with contaminated scallop consumption.