IL6 and colitis: B.p. MP80 + 2ʹFL was associated with decreased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL1-β and CCl2, previously induced in colitis models and with increased expression of Tgfβ.44 Tgfβ administration is associated with improved health outcomes while anti-Tgfβ worsened outcomes.45,46 Consistent with reports of Bifidobacterium preserving intestinal barrier function, B.p. MP80 in the presence of 2ʹFL increased occludin expression and decreased plasma LBP levels.42,47 The increase in Tgfβ and occludin positively correlate with 2ʹFL-dependent B.p. MP80 abundance.