Metabolomic and functional profiling of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains reveals distinct probiotic, immunomodulatory, and antimicrobial signatures

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum is a highly versatile and extensively studied member of the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) group, widely recognized for its substantial probiotic potential (Echegaray et al. 2022 ). Its ability to colonize diverse ecological niches, including fermented foods and the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals, has positioned this species as a cornerstone in food biotechnology and health-related applications (Tang et al. 2023 ). The probiotic and immunomodulatory properties of L. plantarum are largely attributed to its broad metabolic repertoire, which includes organic acids such as lactic acid and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that contribute to pathogen inhibition, gut homeostasis, and anti-inflammatory effects (Fidanza et al. 2021 ). In addition, many strains produce bacteriocins, particularly plantaricins, exhibiting broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and certain viruses (Tang et al. 2023 ), as well as exopolysaccharides (EPS) that promote adhesion to intestinal epithelial cells, support biofilm formation, and modulate host immune responses (Fidanza et al. 2021 ; Tang et al. 2023 ). Other metabolites, including gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and indole-3-lactic acid (ILA), further expand the functional activity of L. plantarum by contributing to stress regulation, gut barrier integrity, neurological support, and immune modulation (Guamán et al. 2024 ). Some strains are also capable of synthesizing vitamins and additional bioactive molecules that enhance host nutritional status (Behera et al. 2018 ). Importantly, the production and biological activity of these metabolites are strongly influenced by strain identity, environmental conditions, and nutrient availability (Bhattacharya et al. 2025 ). Variations in metabolite profiles and organic acid ratios are reflected in strain-dependent clinical effects (Werning et al. 2022 ; Yilmaz et al. 2022 ). For example, L. plantarum 299v has demonstrated benefits in improving gastrointestinal symptoms, oral health, and systemic inflammation (Chatsirisakul et al. 2025 ), whereas L. plantarum MF1298 has been reported to exacerbate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (Ligaarden et al. 2010 ). Other strains, including IS-10506, have shown immunomodulatory effects in atopic dermatitis (Prakoeswa et al. 2022 ), LB931 reduced pathogenic colonization in the vaginal environment (Rönnqvist et al. 2005 ), and CCFM8724 decreased early childhood caries (Zhang et al. 2020 ). Neurobehavioral effects have been described for L. plantarum PS128 (Liu et al., 2019 ), while strain OLL2712 has been reported to support gut barrier function (Watanabe-Yasuoka et al. 2023 ). Other strains, including Z22 and 19-2, have been associated with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, metabolic, and immunoregulatory activities (Cristofori et al. 2021 ; Wang et al. 2024 ). Together, these studies suggest that L. plantarum encompasses strains with diverse functional attributes that may be relevant for the development of targeted probiotic applications (Tavallaei et al. 2025 ).