LAUSR

The pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may be related to local inflammatory damage and disturbances in intestinal microecology. Probiotic therapy is a safe and effective therapeutic approach. Considering that fermented milk is accepted and loved by more people as a daily dietary intervention strategy, its potential to alleviate dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced chronic colitis in mice needs to be concerned and explored. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ZJ316 fermented milk by establishing a mouse model of DSS-induced chronic colitis. The results showed that the disease severity and colonic lesions of IBD were effectively alleviated by ingestion of fermented milk. At the same time, the expression of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) effectively decreased, and the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10) increased. Results based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing indicated that the structure and diversity of intestinal microorganisms have changed markedly by intaking L. plantarum ZJ316 fermented milk, and fermented milk reduced the abundance of harmful bacteria (Helicobacter) while promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria (Faecalibacterium, Lactiplantibacillus, and Bifidobacterium). Additionally, the levels of short-chain fatty acids (acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, pentanoic acid, isobutyric acid) were also increased. In conclusion, the intake of L. plantarum ZJ316 fermented milk can alleviate chronic colitis by suppressing the inflammatory response and regulating intestinal microbiota.