Galactooligosaccharide Mediates NF-κB Pathway to Improve Intestinal Barrier Function and Intestinal Microbiota

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Early-life antibiotic use can disrupt infant gut microbiota, leading to immune-related disorders.
• Oligosaccharides, like galactooligosaccharides (GOS), are crucial for constructing and maintaining intestinal microbiota diversity.
• Limited research exists on GOS's impact on gut microbiota diversity, disorders, and intestinal barrier function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of GOS on intestinal microbiota and barrier function in antibiotic-treated mouse models.
• To assess GOS's potential to mitigate antibiotic-induced intestinal damage and associated immune dysregulation.

Main Methods:

• 16S rRNA sequencing to analyze gut microbiota composition.
• Gas chromatography to measure short-chain fatty acid levels.
• Immunohistochemistry to evaluate tight junction protein expression and inflammatory markers.

Main Results:

• GOS supplementation promoted the proliferation of beneficial bacteria, including *Bifidobacterium* and *Akkermansia*.
• GOS increased short-chain fatty acids, tight junction proteins (occludin, ZO-1), secretory IgA, and albumin levels.
• GOS significantly downregulated NF-κB, reduced LPS, IL-1β, and IL-6, and protected against intestinal damage, especially at high doses.

Conclusions:

• GOS effectively modulates the gut microbiota and enhances intestinal barrier function in antibiotic-treated mice.
• GOS demonstrates potential as a prebiotic supplement to prevent or treat infant gut disorders and immune-related diseases.
• Further research into GOS as a functional ingredient in infant nutrition is warranted.