Microbiota modulation effects of L. sakei CVL-001 administration under co-housing conditions. Mice were randomly divided into five groups (n = 9/group). (A) Body weight changes (%) in mice during the colitis and recovery phases (mean ± SEM) and total weight loss relative to day 0. Statistical indicators (*, #) were compared with the DSS + PBS separated group. (B) Disease activity index of mice (mean ± SEM). Statistical indicators (*, #) were compared with the DSS + PBS separated group. (C) Macroscopic appearance of representative colons from each group. (D) Quantification of colon length (mean ± SEM). (E) Microscopic appearance of representative colons from each group. (F) Histologic scoring of colon (mean ± SEM). The significance of differences among the DSS-treated groups was assessed using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for body weight and disease activity index and a Mann–Whitney U test, with the level of significance set at p < 0.05 (*, #), p < 0.01 (**), p < 0.001 (***), and p < 0.0001 (****). SEM, standard error of mean; DSS, dextran sulfate sodium; PBS, phosphate-buffered saline.