Utilizing Lactic Acid Bacteria to Improve Hyperlipidemia: A Comprehensive Analysis from Gut Microbiota to Metabolic Pathways.

Hyperlipidemia poses significant risks for cardiovascular diseases, with emerging evidence underscoring the critical role of gut microbiota in metabolic regulation. This study explores Lactobacillus casei CAAS36, a probiotic strain with promising cholesterol-lowering capabilities, assessing its impact on hyperlipidemic hamsters. Utilizing 1H NMR-based metabolomics and 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we observed that L. casei CAAS36 treatment not only altered metabolic pathways but also reshaped gut microbiota composition. Notably, the treatment restored the balance between Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes and significantly increased the abundance of propionate-producing Muribaculaceae. Metabolically, L. casei CAAS36 administration led to the normalization of key lipid markers, including reductions in total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides (29.9%, 29.4% and 32.6%), while enhancing the protective HDL-C levels. These effects were accompanied by significant increases in beneficial metabolites such as propionate and succinate, which are known for their roles in preventing metabolic disorders. These findings highlight the dual regulatory effects of L. casei CAAS36 on the metabolic profile and gut microbiota, suggesting a substantial potential for this probiotic in the management of hyperlipidemia and possibly other metabolic diseases. Future applications may include its use as a natural therapeutic agent in clinical settings, aiming to reduce reliance on conventional pharmaceuticals and their associated side effects.