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Ameliorative Potential of a Lactobacillus Based Probiotic Consortium Against Hepatotoxicity Induced by Combinatorial
Bharti Yadav1, Sakshi Ajay Petkar1, Divya Dipali1
1Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan, 304022, India.
Abstract:
Heavy metal exposure remains a serious public health concern due to its cumulative, persistent toxicity and strong affinity for vital organs such as the liver. To mimic real-world scenarios, this study developed a murine model of chronic multi-metal toxicity using low- and high-dose mixtures of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and chromium (Cr). Metal exposure resulted in significant hepatic damage, evidenced by elevated serum transaminases (ALT, AST), increased malondialdehyde (MDA), suppressed antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT) including non enzymatic enzyme GSH and a shift toward pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, NF-κB), alongside reduced anti-inflammatory IL-10 levels. Histological assessment revealed hepatocellular necrosis, vacuolation, and inflammatory infiltration. Additionally, increased hepatic metal accumulation and DNA damage (via comet assay) further confirmed systemic toxicity. Hematological analysis showed anemia and leukocytosis in exposed mice. A probiotic cocktail was evaluated for its protective efficacy. Notably, co-administration of the probiotic formulation containing Lactobacillus plantarum (MTCC 2941) and Lactobacillus fermentum (MTCC 903) in metal exposed mice caused significantly improvement in above toxicological manifestations. Altered liver function biomarkers improved, oxidative stress and inflammation were reduced, and antioxidant defense was restored. Probiotic treatment also lowered hepatic metal levels and minimized genotoxic damage, as well as corrected hematological imbalances. These findings suggest that the Lactobacillus-based probiotic consortium offers a multifaceted defense against heavy metal-induced hepatotoxicity, likely through antioxidant activity, immune modulation, and metal detoxification. This study supports the therapeutic potential of targeted probiotics as a safe, dietary approach to mitigate chronic environmental metal exposure.
