Probiotic Limosilactobacillus reuteri TF7 protects against dyslipidemia and inflammation via modulating gut microbiota in high-fat-diet-induced obese rats
Keywords:
Limosilactobacillus reuteri, probiotics, obesity, dyslipidemia, inflammationAbstract
Dyslipidemia is a condition characterized by abnormally high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. It has numerous negative health effects, which are partly due to increased levels of oxidative stress and inflammation. The resulting health problems include obesity, diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Several studies have shown that probiotics are beneficial live microorganisms that can promote overall health and well-being, particularly through their lipid-lowering properties and supportive role in maintaining metabolic balance. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of the probiotic Limosilactobacillus reuteri TF7 on lipid-lowering; inflammatory mediators; antioxidant activities; intestinal local immunity; and gut microbiota balance in high-fat-diet-induced obese rats. The study showed that oral administration of the probiotic resulted in body weight loss, lower blood glucose and lipid levels, and elevated cholesterol-7α-hydroxylase activity. In addition, L. reuteri TF7 reduced liver enzyme levels and pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), which led to decreased liver fat accumulation. The probiotic reduced oxidative stress by boosting antioxidant enzyme production, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). The research demonstrated two approaches to enhancing intestinal local immunity: increased expression of the zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) protein and reduced expression of TLR proteins. The gut microbiota achieved balance through L. reuteri TF7, which promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria. Our findings indicate that the probiotic strain L. reuteri TF7 has the potential to effectively reduce risk factors associated with dyslipidemia.
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