Lycium ruthenicum diet alters the gut microbiota and partially enhances gut barrier function in male C57BL/6 mice

•Lycium ruthenicum (LR) can alter the gut microbiota and maintain gut homeostasis.•Dietary LR partially enhance gut barrier function.•LR increased SCFAs concentration, and reduced pH value and ammonia in feces.•LR plays a crucial part in intestinal tracts health through gut microbiota.