In this study, we tested whether sodium propionate, a beneficial short-chain fatty acid produced by gut bacteria, could improve maternal and offspring outcomes in stress-vulnerable Submissive mice. We supplemented Submissive mothers during the postpartum period and evaluated maternal behavior, gut-related physiology, inflammation-related markers, and offspring development.

We found that sodium propionate improved maternal care, including faster pup retrieval and better nest building. We also observed improved gut-related markers and reduced spleen weight, suggesting lower systemic inflammation. In male offspring, we evaluated behavioral, gut, and metabolic outcomes. Offspring from treated mothers showed reduced anxiety-like and repetitive behaviors, improved sociability and exploration, and better short-term memory. These effects were accompanied by improved gut barrier-related markers and healthier metabolic profiles.

Our data indicate that improving maternal gut health with sodium propionate may support healthier gut–brain axis development in offspring and reduce stress-related behavioral and metabolic vulnerability.