The therapeutic and preventive effects of a canine-origin VB₁₂ -producing Lactobacillus on DSS-induced colitis in...

Vitamin B₁₂ (VB₁₂ ) plays vital roles as a cofactor in reactions related to biosynthesis and metabolic regulation. Animals with diarrhoea from intestinal inflammation are susceptible to VB₁₂ deficiency due to dysfunctional absorption. No current medications for canine intestinal inflammation can simultaneously act as VB₁₂ supplements. Here we have tested a strain of VB₁₂ -producing Lactobacillus, to investigate its safety in healthy dogs and test for hypothesized therapeutic and preventive effects on murine colitis. Results from enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, histopathological analysis, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction showed normal physical conditions of healthy dogs given Lactobacillus, and blood biochemical indices showed no significant differences in markers, indicating safety of Lactobacillus to healthy dogs. The microbiota in animals receiving VB₁₂ -producing Lactobacillus probiotic exhibited decreased abundance of Escherichia coli and concomitant increase in Lactobacillus. The probiotic supplement also resulted in downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines in murine colon tissues, reduced myeloperoxidase activity and malondialdehyde level, and significantly increased serum VB₁₂ level and decreased homocysteine in therapeutic and preventive experiments. Moreover, Lactobacillus supplement decreased colonic inflammation and injury, improved gut microbiota, and ameliorated VB₁₂ deficiency as an adjunctive therapy. We conclude this product is potentially beneficial for efficient therapy and prevention of VB₁₂ deficiency form intestinal inflammation in canine clinical practice.