Lactobacillus acidophilus alleviates slow transit constipation by modulating 5-HT pathway and gut microbial...

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Microbiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Slow transit constipation (STC) is a chronic condition with limited effective treatments, often causing adverse effects.
• There is a need for safer and more effective therapeutic strategies for STC.
• Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus) is explored for its potential to regulate intestinal motility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of L. acidophilus in alleviating STC.
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of L. acidophilus action in STC.
• To evaluate the impact of L. acidophilus on gut microbiota and the 5-HT signaling pathway.

Main Methods:

• A humanized mouse model of STC was established using fecal microbiota from STC patients.
• Intragastric administration of L. acidophilus was used to treat the model.
• Intestinal motility, colon histopathology, inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β), 5-HT pathway components (TPH1, Piezo1), and gut microbial composition were analyzed.

Main Results:

• L. acidophilus treatment significantly improved intestinal peristalsis and maintained intestinal barrier integrity by up-regulating Occludin and down-regulating TNF-α and IL-1β.
• L. acidophilus modulated 5-HT synthesis and release by regulating TPH1 and Piezo1 expression.
• L. acidophilus reshaped the gut microbial community structure, improving inter-bacterial interactions and enhancing intestinal motility.

Conclusions:

• L. acidophilus effectively alleviates STC symptoms by positively influencing gut microbiota composition, intestinal barrier function, and the 5-HT signaling pathway.
• These findings support the development of L. acidophilus as a promising therapeutic agent for STC.
• The study provides a strong theoretical foundation for using probiotics in managing chronic constipation.