Anti-inflammatory and Neuroprotective Effects of Acetobacter senegalensis LMG 23690T in an Escherichia coli-Induced Rat Model of Gut and Brain Inflammation

Lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) induced inflammation response through activation of TLR4/NF-κB pathway may results in disruption of gut barrier integrity and trigger neuroinflammation through the gut–brain axis. The present study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of Acetobacter senegalensis LMG 23690T. Forty rats were used in this study. Rats were grouped into 4 groups: G1 (treated with physiological serum; negative control), G2 (treated with Escherichia coli O55; positive control), G3 (treated with A. senegalensis LMG 23690T; test group), G4 (treated with A. senegalensis LMG 23690T  + E. coli; prevention group). Rats were gavaged with bacteria for 60 days. Behavioral tests including Morris water maze (MWM), Elevated plus maze (EPM), and Discrimination Index (DI) were performed. Functional analysis of the Liver and kidneys was examined using biochemical tests. Tissues status was studied using histopathological tests. In addition, Tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) level was measured in the hippocampus tissue using the ELISA technique. Our results showed that A. senegalensis LMG 23690T effectively prevented the adverse effects of E. coli on spatial learning and memory, anxiety behavior, and the discriminatory ability of rats. Furthermore, A. senegalensis LMG 23690T significantly prevented liver and kidney dysfunction. Histopathological results revealed the protective activity of A. senegalensis LMG 23690T against structural damages caused by E. coli on the ileum, liver, and hippocampus tissues. Moreover, the increase in TNF-α level by E. coli was suppressed in the presence of A. senegalensis LMG 23690T. This is the first report demonstrating the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of A. senegalensis LMG 23690T, highlighting its potential as a promising candidate for next-generation probiotics targeting gut and brain inflammation.