Gas-producing potential of intestinal microbiota representatives in patients with post-infarction cardiosclerosis

Relevance. Analyzing the spectrum of gaseous signaling molecules (GSM) produced and consumed by the intestinal microbiota in patients with post-infarction cardiosclerosis (PICS) is essential for understanding their potential role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular complications and for identifying strategies to address these conditions. Purpose. To investigate the prevalence and abundance of specific intestinal microbiota representatives isolated from patients with post-infarction cardiosclerosis (PICS) and to examine the species diversity and concentrations of microbial gaseous signaling molecules in this population.

Materials and methods. This case-control study involved the analysis of stool samples from 35 healthy individuals (14 men and 21 women) aged 45–60 years (mean age: 51.8 ± 4.8 [49; 56] years) and 34 patients with PICS (19 men and 15 women) aged 40–84 years (mean age: 64.5 ± 8.1 [53; 72] years). Gaseous signaling molecules (CO, CH₄, NO, H₂S) were quantified using gas chromatography.

Results. Patients with post-infarction cardiosclerosis exhibited a functional microbial imbalance marked by disrupted production of gaseous signaling molecules (GSM) compared to healthy individuals. In the PICS group, Lactobacillus spp. were observed to exclusively absorb NO, whereas in healthy individuals, Lactobacilli produced NO at a statistically significant higher mean concentration of 5.283 µg/mL (p < 0.001). Additionally, Staphylococcus aureus in the PICS group produced CO at levels 880 times higher than those observed in healthy individuals, a difference that was also statistically significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusion. Restoring the functional activity of the intestinal normal microbiota in patients with PICS is essential. Through the production of gaseous signaling molecules (primarily NO and CO), the normal microbiota can support neuromodulatory, cardiomodulatory, immunomodulatory, and other beneficial functions that are critical for the rehabilitation process.

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