Lactobacillus rhamnosus FSJ13 alleviates pancreatic fibrosis in mice via fibroblast growth factor 21

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a progressive fibro-inflammatory condition with a multifactorial etiology, leading to diminished quality of life and increased mortality rates. The incidence and prevalence of chronic pancreatitis are increasing every year, and no definitive cure is currently available. Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) has demonstrated potential in alleviating fibrotic diseases. However, its role in CP remains unexplored. This study demonstrated that CP in mice is associated with gut dysbiosis, characterized by a significant decrease in the abundance of butyrate-producing bacteria, including Roseburia, Lachnoclostridium, and Eubacterium. Supplementation with L. rhamnosus FSJ13 enhanced the abundance of these bacteria, elevated serum and fecal butyrate levels and significantly upregulated pancreatic fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) levels. Notably, the beneficial effects of L. rhamnosus FSJ13 were abolished in CP mice treated with an FGF21 receptor inhibitor. These findings suggest that L. rhamnosus FSJ13 reduces pancreatic fibrosis via FGF21, providing evidence for its use in alleviating CP fibrosis.