LAUSR

BACKGROUND The intestinal epithelium is considered the first defense protection against exogenous harmful substances, and plays an indispensable role in regulating intestinal health. The protection of Surface-layer proteins (Slps) from different Lactobacillus strains on the impaired intestinal barrier was investigated in this study. RESULTS Four Slps pre-incubation for 6 h significantly prevented the reduced transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) value and increased paracellular permeability in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced Caco-2 monolayers. TNF-α-induced lower protein expression of Occludin and ZO-1, and abnormal distribution of Occludin and ZO-1 were ameliorated by four Slps as well. Additionally, four Slps weakened TNF-α-evoked interleukin-8 (IL-8) secretion and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation. CONCLUSION Four Slps from different strains prevent the intestinal barrier from TNF-α-induced dysfunction through blocking NF-κB signaling pathway. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.