Scheme 2

A sketch showing the 5-ASA release process induced by Bac fermentation after NDF-M oral administration. First, gel microspheres are used to overcome the barriers of gastrointestinal digestible enzymes and pH and make NDFs and Bac within the microspheres leak into the colorectum after oral administration. Then, NDF-Pro/5-ASA can target the inflamed colon through IL-1β antibodies due to the in situ accumulation of IL-1β inflammatory factors at the site of inflammation. Last, the fermentation of Bac, feeding on NDFs and proteins as carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively, will overcome the interspace diffuse resistance from the mucus layer to promote the release of 5-ASA. Meanwhile, the improvement of gut microbiota would further alleviate inflammation