Fermented goat milk powder promotes intestinal development and enhances splenic antioxidant function in mice

Abstract

Fermented goat milk powder, containing probiotic bacteria, may regulate intestinal flora and modulate immunity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fermented goat milk powder on intestinal development, gut microbiota composition, and splenic antioxidant capacity in young mice, and to explore the potential underlying mechanisms. Metabolomics results revealed that FGMP contains various bioactive components closely related to antioxidants, such as Creatine, Choline, Betaine, and O-acetyl-L-carnitine. Supplementation increased body weight and significantly elevated serum SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px activities while reducing MDA levels. It promoted intestinal development, evidenced by increased villus height and decreased crypt depth in the jejunum and ileum. Microbial sequencing revealed an altered gut microbiota, including reduced Escherichia–Shigella and increased abundances of several other genera. Concurrently, levels of arachidonic acid and related metabolites decreased. In the spleen, antioxidant capacity was enhanced, lipid peroxidation (4-HNE) was suppressed, and mRNA levels of ACSL4, ALOX15, NOX1, PTGS2, and LPCAT3 were downregulated. These results indicate that fermented goat milk powder supports intestinal development and inhibits splenic ferroptosis via the ACSL4/ALOX15 pathway, enhancing antioxidant status.