The ameliorative effect of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum SCS2 on DSS-induced murine colitis

The inhibitory effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on inflammatory responses are known, but its action mechanisms in oxidative stress, immunomodulation, and intestinal homeostasis remain of interest. Accordingly, we investigated the protective effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum SCS2 (L. plantarum SCS2) against sodium dextran sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in mice as well as elucidated its impact on inflammation, oxidative stress, and intestinal microbiota. The gut microbiota composition was analyzed by high-throughput 16S rDNA sequencing, and the levels of inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress indicators in the colon were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and biochemical analysis. The results revealed that pretreatment with L. plantarum SCS2 (10 × 10⁸ CFU/mL) attenuated DSS-induced pathological conditions such as colon shortening and weight loss in mice (P < 0.05). Moreover, the expression of colonic inflammatory factors was reduced, and colonic oxidative stress was regulated. In addition, L. plantarum SCS2 increased the beneficial mouse intestinal flora, which promoted short-chain fatty acid production. Thus, L. plantarum SCS2 could alleviate colitis, showing potential as a novel dietary intervention agent.