The Lactobacillus plantarum P-8 Probiotic Microcapsule Prevents DSS-Induced Colitis through Improving Intestinal Integrity and Reducing Colonic Inflammation in Mice
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026
Murine Colitis Modeling using Dextran Sulfate Sodium DSS
Published on: January 19, 2010
Han Wang1, Yaxuan Sun1, Xuan Ma1
1Department of Food Science, School of Biochemical Engineering, Beijing Union University, Beijing100023, China.
Abstract:
Probiotics, recognized as beneficial and active microorganisms, often face challenges in maintaining their functionality under harsh conditions such as exposure to stomach acid and bile salts. In this investigation, we developed probiotic microcapsules and assessed their protective effects and underlying mechanisms in a murine model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis using male C57BL/6J mice. The administration of the probiotic microcapsules significantly mitigated body weight loss, prevented colon length shortening, decreased the disease activity index scores, and reduced histopathological scores in mice with DSS-induced colitis. Concurrently, the microencapsulated probiotics preserved intestinal barrier integrity by upregulating the expressions of tight junction proteins ZO-1 and occludin, as well as the mucus layer component MUC-2. Moreover, the treatment with probiotic microcapsules suppressed the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway in the context of DSS-induced colitis. In conclusion, these findings support the utilization of probiotic microcapsules as a potential functional food ingredient to maintain the permeability of the intestinal barrier and alleviate colonic inflammation in UC.
Insights
Probiotic microcapsules protect the gut by strengthening the intestinal barrier and reducing inflammation. This study shows their potential to treat ulcerative colitis (UC) by improving gut health.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Probiotics offer health benefits but struggle with survival in harsh gastrointestinal conditions.
- Developing delivery systems is crucial to enhance probiotic efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate probiotic microcapsules for enhanced protection against colitis.
- To investigate the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of microencapsulated probiotics.
Main Methods:
- Probiotic microcapsules were developed and administered to mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis.
- Assessment included body weight, colon length, disease activity index, and histopathology.
- Intestinal barrier integrity (tight junction proteins ZO-1, occludin, MUC-2) and NLRP3 inflammasome activation were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Probiotic microcapsules significantly reduced colitis severity, including weight loss and colon shortening.
- Microencapsulation preserved intestinal barrier function by upregulating ZO-1, occludin, and MUC-2.
- Treatment suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the DSS-induced colitis model.
Conclusions:
- Probiotic microcapsules effectively protect against DSS-induced colitis in mice.
- They enhance intestinal barrier integrity and reduce colonic inflammation.
- Probiotic microcapsules show promise as a functional food ingredient for managing ulcerative colitis (UC).
More Related Videos
08:58Analyzing Beneficial Effects of Nutritional Supplements on Intestinal Epithelial Barrier Functions During Experimental Colitis
Published on: January 5, 2017
08:53Investigating the Alleviating Effects of Bacillus cereus Administration on Colitis through Gut Microbiota Modulation
Published on: July 27, 2022
