Mucuna pruriens extract as Prebiotic and Lactobacillus rhamnosus as Probiotic Intervention mitigated histological changes in DNCB-Induced Colitis via GLP-1/Nrf2/NF-κβ Axis Regulation

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a debilitating inflammatory bowel disorder characterized by epithelial damage, oxidative stress, and dysregulated immune responses. Current pharmacological treatments often present limitations in efficacy and safety. This study investigates the synergistic therapeutic potential of Mucuna pruriens extract (MPE), a polyphenol-rich prebiotic, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG), a probiotic strain, in a DNCB-induced colitis rat model. MPE was profiled using LC-MS/MS to identify bioactive constituents, and its anti-inflammatory efficacy was assessed in vitro using Caco-2 cells. In vivo, rats were administered MPE and LGG, individually and in combination, following DNCB-induced colitis. Biomarkers, including GLP-1, NF-κβ, IL-6, IL-1β, Nrf2, and SCFAs, were quantified via ELISA, immunoblotting, and HPLC. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses evaluated mucosal integrity and protein expression. Results demonstrated that MPE reduced intracellular ROS and inhibited NF-κβ nuclear translocation. Combined treatment with MPE and LGG significantly restored colon morphology, reduced spleen hypertrophy, and suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines. Notably, GLP-1 and Nrf2 expression were upregulated, and SCFA levels were elevated, indicating enhanced gut barrier function and microbial homeostasis. These findings suggest that MPE and LGG exert complementary effects through improved the intestinal mucosal lining and epithelial damage via modulation of oxidative and inflammatory pathways, offering a promising biotherapeutic approach for UC management and functional food development.