Lactobacillus salivarius MZ27 enhances the host's resistance to DSS by modulating the gut microbiota and the AHR/GPX4 signaling pathway

; additionally, MZ27 can improve intestinal barrier function by regulating the expression of AHR and its downstream signaling pathways. Moreover, MZ27 inhibited ferroptosis by promoting GPX4 expression through AHR-mediated cystine-glutamate transporter (xCT) and toll-like receptor 4/acyl-CoA synthetase 4 (TLR4/ACSL4) signals, thereby reducing the release of inflammatory cytokines to alleviate colonic inflammation. In conclusion, MZ27 improves colitis through host-microbiota interactions, indicating its potential as a probiotic candidate to support recovery from ongoing colitis.