Preventive and regulatory effects of <i>Lactiplantibacillus pentosus</i> CQZC02 on ovalbumin-induced allergy in young mice

This study investigated the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of Lactiplantibacillus pentosus CQZC02, isolated from Chongqing hot pickled mustard tuber, in an ovalbumin-induced mouse model of food allergy. Results demonstrated that high-dose CQZC02 (1.0 × 109 cfu/mL/kg) effectively alleviated OVA-induced allergic symptoms by preventing weight loss, rectal temperature reduction, and diarrhea incidence, while also modulating the immune organ index and serum levels of OVA-specific IgE, IgA, and IgG. Mechanistically, CQZC02 regulated the Th1/Th2 cytokine balance (IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-12/IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) and reduced Treg cell cytokine expression (IL-10 and TGF-β), thereby protecting intestinal barrier function and maintaining intestinal secretory homeostasis. These findings suggest that Lactiplantibacillus pentosus CQZC02 exhibits significant immunomodulatory effects, highlighting its potential as a preventive agent against food allergies. Further studies are warranted to elucidate its precise molecular mechanisms