Human milk oligosaccharides 2′-fucosyllactose and 3-fucosyllactose attenuate ovalbumin-induced food allergy through immunoregulation and gut microbiota modulation

Abstract

The prebiotic properties of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and emerging evidence of immunomodulatory effects suggest their potential therapeutic value in allergy management. 2′-Fucosyllactose (2′-FL) has been reported to alleviate food allergies, while the effect of other fucosylated HMOs on food allergy remains unclear. In this study, we assess the effect of two HMOs, 2′-FL and 3-fucosyllactose (3-FL), on symptomatology and immunological responses in an ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized mouse model of food allergy as well as their influence on gut microbiota. The assessment of allergic symptoms, specific immunoglobulin E (IgE), and related gene expression levels in sensitized mice indicated that 3-FL was as effective as 2′-FL in alleviating food allergy. 2′-FL and 3-FL significantly decreased serum levels of OVA-specific IgE, mouse mast cell protease (mMCP-1) and IL-4 while increasing the levels of IFN-γ. Additionally, 2′-FL and 3-FL down-regulated gene expression of allergy-related cytokines in the small intestine and improved intestinal barrier damage. Furthermore, both 2′-FL and 3-FL treatment positively influenced the gut microbial profiles, in particular by enhancing the proportion of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and decreasing the percentage of Turicibacter and Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group, thereby modulating the immune system. Therefore, this study can provide insights into 2′-FL and 3-FL to alleviate OVA-induced allergy.