Moringa oleifera leaf extract alleviates LPS ‐induced colonic injury in piglets by modulating oxidative status and microbial fermentation

BACKGROUND: Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOLE) is a carbohydrate-rich plant extract that may support intestinal homeostasis. The colon, as the principal site of the fermentation of indigestible carbohydrate, is susceptible to barrier disruption. However, the effects of MOLE on colonic health in piglets and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study systematically characterized the composition and in vitro antioxidant activity of MOLE, evaluated its effects on colonic health in piglets, and explored the potential mechanisms using the fermentation of colonic digesta and an intestinal porcine epithelial cell line J2 (IPEC-J2) oxidative stress model. RESULTS: MOLE was predominantly composed of carbohydrates and showed measurable chemical antioxidant activity. In weaned piglets, dietary MOLE alleviated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced colonic histological injury by suppressing CD14-dependent TLR4 signaling, enhancing NFE2L2-GCLC-mediated antioxidant defenses, up-regulating OCLN and MUC2, and modulating microbial and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) profiles. In colonic digesta fermentation, MOLE supported carbohydrate-driven fermentation, as indicated by rapid bacterial growth, sustained acetate-dominant SCFA production, decreased pH, increased gas production, and the absence of branched-chain fatty acids. In IPEC-J2 cells, MOLE enhanced GCLC and GPX expression and promoted GSH-GPX-based antioxidant defenses under hydrogen peroxide challenge. CONCLUSION: MOLE alleviates inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby helping to maintain intestinal homeostasis. Together, these results support MOLE's development as a practical feed additive. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.