Lactobacillus Taiwanensis Inhibits Gallstone Formation by Regulating Ileal Metabolism

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology
• Metabolomics

Background:

• Gut microbiota's role in gallstone formation via the gut-liver axis is known.
• Specific changes and functions of ileal microbiota in gallstone development require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of digestive tract microbial communities on gallstone formation.
• To elucidate the mechanisms underlying the influence of ileal microbiota on gallstones.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of ileal and colonic microbiota using metagenomic sequencing in mice on lithogenic vs. normal diets.
• Establishment of Lactobacillus taiwanensis gavage and Lipoxin A4 (LXA4) intraperitoneal injection models.
• Analysis of gallstone incidence, liver/bile NETs, LXA4 levels, and ileal metabolism via Western blot, ELISA, and metabolomics.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in intestinal microbiota composition were observed between gallstone-forming and control groups.
• Lithogenic diet decreased Lactobacillus taiwanensis abundance in the small intestine; its administration reduced gallstone incidence.
• Lactobacillus taiwanensis increased LXA4 levels, down-regulating liver/bile NETs and inhibiting gallstone formation.

Conclusions:

• Ileal and colonic microbiota exhibit site-specific effects on gallstone formation.
• Lactobacillus taiwanensis may inhibit gallstones by modulating ileal metabolism and LXA4 production.
• Lactobacillus taiwanensis presents a potential therapeutic strategy for gallstone prevention and treatment.