Effect of bifidobacteria on intestinal injury and flora in a mouse model of ulcerative colitis

Purpose: To investigate the effect of bifidobacteria on intestinal injury and flora in a mouse model of ulcerative colitis (UC). Methods: Mouse model of UC was produced using dextran sulphate sodium (DSS). The mice were divided into seven groups, viz, reference group, MRS-L medium-negative control group, mesalaminepositive control group, high dose bifidobacteria (MIMBb75) group, middle dose MIMBb75 group and low dose MIMBb75 group. Normal mice were used as control. All mice were sacrificed at day 7 of treatment, and colon length, hemoglobin concentration and intestinal flora were determined. Results: Bifidobacteria inhibited UC-induced decreases in mice hemoglobin and UC-induced colon shortening. In addition, it augmented the diversity of intestinal flora and increased the number of bacteroides and Clostridium leptum. Conclusion: Bifidobacteria plays a therapeutic role in UC via regulation of intestinal microflora. Keywords: Bifidobacteria, MIMBb75, Ulcerative colitis, Intestinal injury, Intestinal flora