Camel milk and fermented camel milk prevent dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis via the intestinal flora-short-chain fatty acids-mucosal barrier axis in mice.

Introduction: Ulcerative colitis poses a significant threat to human health. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and decreased levels of short-chain fatty acids are known contributors to the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis. While camel milk and fermented camel milk have demonstrated beneficial effects in alleviating intestinal inflammation, the differences in their preventive efficacy against ulcerative colitis and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Dextran sulfate sodium can induce ulcerative colitis, at least in part, through activation of the NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathway. This study aims to investigate the differential preventive effects of camel milk and fermented camel milk against dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis in mice and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms mediated by the gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids. Results: Through the study, we found that preemptive intervention with camel milk and fermented camel milk significantly mitigated dextran sulfate sodium-triggered pathological manifestations, including body weight loss (e.g., from 97%in DSS group to 99% in FTC group, Discussion: Our findings demonstrate that preemptive intake of camel milk and fermented camel milk effectively prevents ulcerative colitis by preserving the intestinal barrier, regulating immune responses, and restoring gut microbiota homeostasis and short chain fatty acids production, with fermented camel milk offering enhanced benefits. We hold optimistic prospects for camel milk and fermented camel milk as dietary supplements to prevent ulcerative colitis and stabilize gut microbiota homeostasis.