Protective Effects of Limosilactobacillus reuteri MSMC64 in Hyperlipidemia Rats Induced by a High-Cholesterol Diet

Abstract

Hyperlipidemia, characterized by abnormally elevated levels of lipids such as cholesterol, is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD), contributing to increased oxidative stress, inflammation, and disruption of gut immunity. Dysbiosis, or imbalance in the gut microbiome, plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of hyperlipidemia. Probiotics, as key components of the gut microbiome, have been shown to positively impact health. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Limosilactobacillus reuteri MSMC64 on lipid profiles, blood glucose levels, hepatic steatosis, antioxidant capacity, inflammatory biomarkers, and colon barrier immunity in hyperlipidemic rats induced by a high-cholesterol diet. The results demonstrated that the administration of L. reuteri MSMC64 may improve lipid profiles and blood glucose levels, reduce hepatic steatosis and oxidative stress, and lower inflammatory biomarkers while maintaining colon barrier integrity. These findings suggest that L. reuteri MSMC64 has the potential to be developed as a probiotic supplement for mitigating risk factors associated with hyperlipidemia and CVD.