Lactiplantibacillus plantarum as a multifunctional probiotic for inflammatory bowel disease: Mechanisms, synbiotic strategies, and delivery systems

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses a group of chronic inflammatory disorders of the bowel, characterized by complex etiologies that are closely associated with an imbalance in intestinal microbiota, abnormal immune activation, and compromised intestinal mucosal barrier function. Current therapeutic options are limited by low response rates and metabolic disorders, underscoring the urgent need for innovative clinical treatments. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum , hereafter referred to as L. plantarum ) has emerged as a focal point in IBD research due to its capacity to modulate the intestinal microenvironment and its robust probiotic properties. This review elucidates the multifaceted regulatory mechanisms of L. plantarum in IBD, including its role in modulating host immune responses, mitigating oxidative damage, restoring intestinal mucosal barrier integrity, and reestablishing microbiota balance. Additionally, it highlights advancements in L. plantarum synbiotic research and underscores the necessity for a “basic research-technology translation-clinical application” framework in future investigations, while also exploring the potential of novel targeted delivery technologies. Evidence indicates that L. plantarum enhances intestinal health through multi-target synergy, with its probiotic effects and innovative delivery systems presenting significant application potential. This review offers insights into the mechanisms underlying the action of L. plantarum , establishing a theoretical foundation for the development of novel food therapies aimed at treating IBD. It further contributes to the integration of such therapies within precision medicine approaches for IBD.