Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT 8145 BPL1^® Laxative Effects in Loperamide-Induced Constipated SD Rats

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Microbiology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Constipation is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder.
• Probiotics are being investigated for their potential to alleviate constipation.
• The specific strain Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT 8145 (BPL1®) was studied for its laxative effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BPL1® in a rat model of loperamide-induced constipation.
• To assess the impact of BPL1® on gastrointestinal transit, gut microbiome composition, and related gene expression.

Main Methods:

• A loperamide-induced constipation model in 59 rats.
• Administration of placebo or BPL1® at low (1.5 × 10⁸ CFU) and high (3 × 10⁹ CFU) doses for 3 days.
• Assessment of stool parameters, gastrointestinal transit time (GTT), gut microbiome composition, and functional gene expression.

Main Results:

• BPL1® supplementation restored stool number, weight, and humidity, with a more pronounced effect at the high dose.
• BPL1® modulated the gut microbiome, reducing constipation-associated bacteria like Muribaculaceae.
• Functional analysis revealed BPL1® suppressed detrimental pathways and promoted beneficial ones, supporting gut health.

Conclusions:

• Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BPL1® demonstrates potential as a functional probiotic for constipation relief.
• The probiotic improves stool excretion and consistency through taxonomic and functional modulation of the gut microbiome.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms of BPL1® in constipation management.