3-strain novel combinatorial probiotic formulation has a prophylactic role in maintaining intestinal barrier function via a reparative modulation of alkaline phosphatase in a pre-clinical inflammatory bowel disease

Introduction: Oxidative stress is a significant issue arising from the excessive production of oxidants by superoxide oxides and nitric oxides in our body, which leads to inflammation and tissue damage. In patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the immune system mistakenly identifies food as antigens, releasing various cytokines to combat this perceived threat and causing IBD symptoms. The loss of intestinal barrier integrity is directly linked to the severity of IBD. It results in a leaky gut, bacterial infiltration, and an increase in inflammatory cytokines. The immune system typically combats infections through the generation of various T- and B-lymphocytes, leading to an adaptive immune response. Method: In this study, we evaluated the prophylactic effect of a novel combinatorial probiotic formulation, "ABT," in an IBD model in male BALB/c mice. 106 CFU of ABT was administered orally to the mice. Subsequently, 3% DSS was administered orally to induce colitis. Body weight loss was monitored, as it is one of the critical clinical symptoms of colitis. After sacrifice, various parameters were analyzed to validate the efficacy of the probiotic formulation. Results: The formulation prevented the symptoms of colitis, oxidative stress, maintained colon length, and achieved a balance in the expression patterns of pro-inflammatory cytokines (iNOS, IFNg) with the junctional proteins mRNA expression (Claudin-1, ZO-1). Thus, our 3-strain novel formulation can prophylactically block the Th1 mediated pathway. Conclusion: Our study concludes that the probiotic 3-strain "ABT," when administered prophylactically, prevented the Th1 mediated immune response and can be considered for use as a wellness health drink.