Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 31, 2026

A Method to Assess Bacteriocin Effects on the Gut Microbiota of Mice
Published on: July 25, 2017
Sodium propionate modulates gut microbiota and blood parameters in healthy mice
Wenjie Cheng1, Junhong Zhu1, Lanlan Yi1
1Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China.
Introduction:
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), particularly propionate, play crucial roles in host metabolism, immunity, and gut barrier function. However, the direct physiological effects of propionate on healthy organisms remain unclear. This study investigated the impact of sodium propionate (SP) supplementation on intestinal barrier function, gut microbiota, and hematological parameters in healthy C57BL/6 mice.
Methods:
Mice were orally administered 200 mg/kg SP for 21 days.
Results:
Results showed no significant changes in body weight, intestinal histopathology, or blood parameters. The immunohistochemical results showed decreased IL-6 expression, while IL-10 and occludin expression were increased. Gut microbiota analysis revealed decreased α-diversity in the SP group, along with shifts in microbial composition, including increased Akkermansia and Bacteroides. No significant differences in colonic SCFA concentrations were observed.
Conclusion:
These findings suggest that propionate modulates gut microbiota and hematological parameters in healthy mice, providing insights into its physiological roles under normal conditions.
Related Concept Videos
Regulation of Sodium and Potassium
Sodium Regulation
Sodium ions make up approximately 90% of extracellular cations, with a normal blood plasma concentration of 136–148 mEq/L. A decrease in blood volume and pressure triggers the release of renin from granular cells in the juxtaglomerular complex (JGC), primarily...
Wave Parameters
Roles of Electrolytes: Sodium and Potassium
Antiepileptic Drugs: Sodium Channel Blockers
Sodium channel blockers modulate ion channels, particularly voltage-gated sodium channels. They block only sodium ion movement.
Among the most commonly prescribed antiepileptic drugs are...
Distributions to Estimate Population Parameter
Bioavailability Study Design: Healthy Subjects Versus Patients

