Multifunctional probiotic properties of Heyndrickxia coagulans RS24: from in vitro characterization to in vivo colitis amelioration

Heyndrickxia coagulans RS24, isolated from traditional Korean fermented foods, was identified as a promising probiotic candidate through comprehensive in vitro and in vivo evaluations. RS24 demonstrated stability under simulated gastrointestinal conditions and compliance with safety standards for probiotics. Functionally, RS24 showed moderate antioxidant activity, significant immunostimulatory effects in RAW 264.7 macrophages, and strong adhesion to intestinal epithelial cells. In a DSS-induced colitis mouse model, RS24 effectively attenuated disease severity by reducing weight loss, preserving colon length, and reducing histological inflammation. It also enhanced ex vivo Th1 (IFN-γ) and Th2 (IL-4) cytokine responses without disrupting systemic immune cell populations, indicating a balanced immunomodulatory profile. Collectively, these results demonstrate that H. coagulans RS24 possesses a favorable safety profile and multiple probiotic functionalities, including antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and gut-protective activities. Its strain-specific efficacy highlights RS24 as a strong candidate for development as a next-generation probiotic targeting intestinal inflammation and host immune modulation.