Percorrer por autor "Pires, Lara"
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- Exploring Therapeutic Advances: A Comprehensive Review of Intestinal Microbiota ModulatorsPublication . Pires, Lara; González-Paramás, Ana María; Heleno, Sandrina A.; Calhelha, Ricardo C.The gut microbiota establishes a mutually beneficial relationship with the host starting from birth, impacting diverse metabolic and immunological processes. Dysbiosis, characterized by an imbalance of microorganisms, is linked to numerous medical conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and autoimmune disorders. This imbalance promotes the proliferation of toxin-producing bacteria, disrupts the host’s equilibrium, and initiates inflammation. Genetic factors, dietary choices, and drug use can modify the gut microbiota. However, there is optimism. Several therapeutic approaches, such as probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics, microbe-derived products, and microbial substrates, aim to alter the microbiome. This review thoroughly explores the therapeutic potential of these microbiota modulators, analysing recent studies to evaluate their efficacy and limitations. It underscores the promise of microbiota-based therapies for treating dysbiosis-related conditions. This article aims to ensure practitioners feel well-informed and up to date on the most influential methods in this evolving field by providing a comprehensive review of current research.
- Gut Microbiota as an Endocrine Organ: Unveiling Its Role in Human Physiology and HealthPublication . Pires, Lara; Gonzalez-Paramás, Ana Maria; Heleno, Sandrina A.; Calhelha, Ricardo C.The gut microbiota, recognised for its vital functions in host health, operates as an endocrine organ, exerting systemic effects beyond the gastrointestinal tract. This “virtual organ” produces hormones that influence distal organs, including the brain. With its diverse microbial composition, the gut microbiota surpasses the biochemical complexity of traditional endocrine organs, generating neurotransmitters like GABA, dopamine, and serotonin. Despite challenges in culturing gut bacteria, advances in research methodologies have elucidated their role in behaviour, metabolism, appetite, and insulin resistance. As microbial endocrinology continues to evolve, further exploration of the intricate connections between hormones and the microbiome are anticipated, highlighting hormones’ pivotal role in the dynamic host–microbiota relationship.
- Revitalising Riboflavin: Unveiling Its Timeless Significance in Human Physiology and HealthPublication . Aragão, Maria Ângela; Pires, Lara; Santos-Buelga, Celestino; Barros, Lillian; Calhelha, Ricardo C.Since the early twentieth century, research on vitamins has revealed their therapeutic potential beyond their role as essential micronutrients. Riboflavin, known as vitamin B2, stands out for its unique characteristics. Despite numerous studies, riboflavin remains vital, with implications for human health. Abundantly present in various foods, riboflavin acts as a coenzyme in numerous enzymatic reactions crucial for human metabolism. Its role in energy production, erythrocyte synthesis, and vitamin metabolism underscores its importance in maintaining homeostasis. The impact of riboflavin extends to neurological function, skin health, and cardiovascular well-being, with adequate levels linked to reduced risks of various ailments. However, inadequate intake or physiological stress can lead to deficiency, a condition that poses serious health risks, including severe complications. This underscores the importance of maintaining sufficient levels of riboflavin for general wellness. The essential role of riboflavin in immune function further emphasises its significance for human health and vitality. This paper examines the diverse effects of riboflavin on health and stresses the importance of maintaining sufficient levels for overall well-being.
- The Role of Gut Microbiota in the Etiopathogenesis of Multiple Chronic DiseasesPublication . Pires, Lara; González-Paramás, Ana María; Heleno, Sandrina A.; Calhelha, Ricardo C.Chronic diseases (CD) may result from a combination of genetic factors, lifestyle and social behaviours, healthcare system influences, community factors, and environmental determinants of health. These risk factors frequently coexist and interact with one another. Ongoing research and a focus on personalized interventions are pivotal strategies for preventing and managing chronic disease outcomes. A wealth of literature suggests the potential involvement of gut microbiota in influencing host metabolism, thereby impacting various risk factors associated with chronic diseases. Dysbiosis, the perturbation of the composition and activity of the gut microbiota, is crucial in the etiopathogenesis of multiple CD. Recent studies indicate that specific microorganism-derived metabolites, including trimethylamine N-oxide, lipopolysaccharide and uremic toxins, contribute to subclinical inflammatory processes implicated in CD. Various factors, including diet, lifestyle, and medications, can alter the taxonomic species or abundance of gut microbiota. Researchers are currently dedicating efforts to understanding how the natural progression of microbiome development in humans affects health outcomes. Simultaneously, there is a focus on enhancing the understanding of microbiome-host molecular interactions. These endeavours ultimately aim to devise practical approaches for rehabilitating dysregulated human microbial ecosystems, intending to restore health and prevent diseases. This review investigates how the gut microbiome contributes to CD and explains ways to modulate it for managing or preventing chronic conditions.