Bacillus Coagulans Alleviates Oxidative Stress Caused by Cadmium Exposure

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd), a toxic heavy metal, adversely affects the physiological functions of organisms, garnering global concern due to widespread Cd pollution. In this study, Bacillus coagulans LBK which was isolated from silage feed exhibited robust Cd tolerance and adsorption capabilities, with tolerance exceeding Cd concentrations of 1000 mg/L. The strain also possesses a significant scavenging effect on DPPH and hydroxyl radicals, with a clearance rate of approximately 40%. In vivo, LBK significantly reduced the mortality of mice and increased the levels of SOD and CAT in the liver. In addition, the strain reduced the Cd toxicity of mice exposed to Cd and restored their liver damage. The results of 16S showed that B. coagulans LBK significantly changed the structure of intestinal microbiota. LBK also increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Leptospirillaceae and Lactobacillus. Metabolomics analysis showed that LBK could regulate metabolic disorders caused by Cd exposure and restore the levels of amino acids such as glutamic acid, leucine, and aspartic acid. Based on the above advantages, B. coagulans LBK may be considered a promising candidate for alleviating oxidative stress caused by acute Cd exposure.

Keywords: B. coagulans, Cadmium, Oxidative stress, Cecal microbes