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The Effect of 2′-Fucosyllactose on Gut Health in Aged Mice

Summary

This research shows that 2′-fucosyllactose, a natural compound found in breast milk, can significantly improve gut health in older mice. The treatment strengthened the intestinal barrier, reduced harmful inflammation, and increased beneficial bacteria populations. These findings suggest that 2′-FL could be developed as a food supplement to help older people maintain better digestive and immune health.

Background

Aging populations face significant gut health challenges including weakened intestinal barriers, dysbiosis, and chronic low-grade inflammation. 2′-Fucosyllactose (2′-FL), a human milk oligosaccharide, has shown potential as a functional dietary supplement to promote gut microbiota balance and intestinal health.

Objective

To explore the effects of 2′-FL intervention on intestinal barrier function, immune responses, and gut microbiota composition in aged mice, and to provide theoretical basis for its application as a functional component in treating intestinal diseases.

Results

2′-FL significantly improved intestinal permeability, reduced serum DAO levels, increased IgA levels while decreasing IgG levels, and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, IFN-γ). 2′-FL upregulated tight junction proteins ZO-1 and Claudin-1, decreased aging markers P16 and P21, and increased beneficial bacterial populations including Lachnospiraceae and Muribaculaceae.

Conclusion

2′-FL effectively improved intestinal immune health and barrier function in aged mice by enhancing tight junction integrity, suppressing chronic inflammation, and promoting beneficial gut microbiota composition. These findings provide evidence for 2′-FL’s potential as a functional dietary component for age-related intestinal diseases.
  • Published in:Foods,
  • Study Type:Animal Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/foods14244184, PMID: 41464891
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