Camel Milk-Derived Extracellular Vesicles as a Functional Food Component Ameliorate Hypobaric Hypoxia-Induced Colonic Injury Through Microbiota-Metabolite Crosstalk.

Abstract

<b>Background/Objectives:</b> This study investigates the therapeutic potential of camel milk-derived extracellular vesicles (CM-EVs) for treating colonic damage caused by high-altitude hypoxia, supporting the WHO's "Food as Medicine" initiative. <b>Methods:</b> Using a 5500 m mouse model, researchers induced colonic injury and treated it with oral CM-EVs for 15 days, comparing results to whole camel milk. <b>Results:</b> CM-EVs outperformed whole milk, significantly improving colon health by restoring barrier integrity and reducing disease activity index (DAI) (<i>p</i> < 0.01). They boosted beneficial bacteria like <i>Lactobacillus</i> and <i>Bifidobacterium</i> and decreased <i>Enterobacteriaceae</i> (<i>p</i> < 0.01). Metabolic analysis showed restored bile acid balance and amino acid modulation via the FXR/NF-κB pathway, reducing TLR4/MyD88-mediated inflammation and oxidative stress (<i>p</i> < 0.01). Fecal microbiota transplantation in the CM-EVs group notably decreased DAI and increased colon length (<i>p</i> < 0.05). <b>Conclusions:</b> CM-EVs repair mucosal damage, balance microbiota, and regulate metabolism to combat hypoxia-induced colonic damage, suggesting their potential as nutraceuticals and altitude-adaptive foods. This showcases nanotechnology's role in enhancing traditional dietary benefits via precision nutrition.