摘要Exopolysaccharides(EPS)have attracted attention due to their potential role in intestinal repair and stabilization of gut microorganisms.This study aims to investigate the influences of EPS(GEPS)produced by Pediococcus pentosaceus LL-07 on dextran sodium sulfate(DSS)-induced colitis and to reveal the underlying mechanisms.Results showed that GEPS intervention significantly reduced weight loss and colon length shortening in colitis mice,and suppressed the expression of inflammation-related enzymes(myeloperoxidase(MPO),cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2),and inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS)),and pro-inflammatory cytokines(interleukin 6(IL-6),tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α),and IL-1β).The anti-inflammatory factor IL-10,malondialdehyde,and peroxidation stress factors(catalase(CAT),superoxide dismutase(SOD),and glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px)),were increased.The tight junction proteins(Occludin,Claudin-3,and ZO-1)associated with the intestinal barrier were also increased.The gut microbiota was significantly improved,with an increase in the beneficial bacteria(Ligilactobacillus,Lactobacillus,Alloprevotella,etc.)and a decrease in the harmful bacteria(Escherichia_Shigella,etc.).In conclusion,GEPS can improve DSS-induced colitis by inhibiting inflammatory responses,maintaining the intestinal barrier,and regulating the balance of the gut microbiota.These results help accelerate the development of GEPS as a new agent for the treatment of colitis.