Leuconostoc mesenteroides strain ES222 and Limosilactobacillus fermentum strain EM612: A novel approach to Colon Cancer therapy in rat models

This study evaluates the anticancer activity of the locally isolated strains Leuconostoc mesenteroides ES222 and Limosilactobacillus fermentum EM612 using a rat model of colon cancer induced by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). Thirty-five male Wistar rats were allocated into five groups: control, DMH-only, and DMH with single or combined probiotic treatments (1 mL orally, weeks 13–16). Probiotic supplementation significantly reduced serum tumor markers (AFP, CEA, CA 19–9), liver and kidney function markers (ALT, AST, urea, creatinine), and colonic TNF-α and CYP2E1 expression, while enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity (CAT, SOD). Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses revealed decreased tumor nodules, inflammation, and caspase-3 expression, with the combined treatment restoring normal mucosal architecture. Overall, L. mesenteroides ES222 and L. fermentum EM612, particularly in combination, demonstrated promising therapeutic potential against colon cancer. • Screening the effect of different locally isolated probiotics on colon cancer. • Demonstration of the anticancer activity of the live probiotic. • The role of probiotics in the treatment of colon cancer.