Lactobacillus acidophilus reduces the susceptibility of Citrobacter rodentium induced by bowel preparation with polyethylene glycol

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is the most widely used laxative worldwide due to its outstanding safety. However, inconsistent studies have discovered the adverse impact on the colonic flora, and it will last for over 2 weeks. Whether the drastic changes in the flora increase the colonization and invasion of opportunistic pathogens needs further exploration. A mouse model infected with Citrobacter rodentium (C.R.) after bowel preparation with PEG was used to mimic enteric EPEC (Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli) and EHEC (Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli) infections after bowel preparation. The severity of infectious enteritis was evaluated, and subsequently, supplementation with Lactobacillus acidophilus was applied as a prevention measure.