The impact of the human gut microbiota on the chemical composition and the anti-inflammatory activity of extracts from selected species of linden flower
project manager: dr inż. Aleksandra Kruk
In recent years, gut microbiota and its influence on medical substances taken orally are very popular subjects among researchers. The bacteria present in the gut can convert taken orally compounds which can then be absorbed into the bloodstream and affect the body's processes. For this reason, the final properties of orally taken preparations containing plant raw materials may differ from the properties of the compounds which are originally present in them.
One of the most popular and orally used herbal preparation for centuries is the linden flower infusion, commonly used to treat and relieve the symptoms of colds. Although linden flower is a relatively well-known raw material for its composition and medicinal properties, there are no reports on its metabolism under the influence of the human gut microbiota. Thus, there is no information on the biological activity of the compounds into which the linden flower components are transformed when taken orally.
Based on the research, it was found that the compounds contained in the linden flower undergo significant changes under the influence of human gut microbiota. Both before and after metabolism, they are no toxic to human immune system cells - neutrophils, but their effect on the inflammatory response of neutrophils changes. As a result of intestinal metabolism, an immunostimulatory effect of linden flower extracts is observed, which may be important in terms of stimulating the immune system during infection.
The research carried out as a scientific activity allowed to expand the existing knowledge on the influence of human intestinal microbiota on the biological activity of linden flower extract, which, due to the popularity of the use of this drug around the world is extremely valuable information, providing the basis for the development of further research on this subject.
The scientific activity created the possibility of personal development of the project manager by gaining extremely valuable organizational experience, which in the future will be necessary for the application, realization, and management of subsequent projects.