Did you know?
Probiotics can help you sleep better. Research shows that Lactobacillus strains have been linked to improved sleep quality by influencing the production of neurotransmitters like GABA, which promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that offer significant health benefits when administered in adequate amounts. They primarily work by modulating the gut microbiome, supporting a balanced microbial ecosystem. Probiotics have been shown to improve gut health, modulate immune responses, and even influence metabolic and mental health disorders. With growing evidence supporting their therapeutic potential, probiotics are increasingly recognized for their role in treating conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (BS), antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AD), and even mental health conditions like depression and anxiety through their impact on the gut-brain axis.
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Divine Aleru
I am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
I am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
Overview
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host. They are primarily utilized to modulate the gut microbiome, aiming to restore or maintain a balanced microbial ecosystem. Common probiotic genera include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces, among others.[1] Manufacturers offer these organisms in various forms, such as dietary supplements, fermented foods, and functional foods, and researchers are increasingly exploring their therapeutic potential in microbiome-targeted interventions.[2] Probiotics exert their beneficial effects through various mechanisms, including modulation of the gut microbiota composition, enhancement of the intestinal barrier function, and regulation of the host immune response. They can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria by producing antimicrobial substances, competing for nutrients and adhesion sites, and modulating the local pH.[3]
Mechanisms of Action
Probiotics exert their effects through multiple mechanisms that influence host physiology, particularly concerning inflammation, immune modulation, and cellular metabolism. They enhance the intestinal barrier function by upregulating tight junction proteins, reducing intestinal permeability. Probiotics also modulate the host immune response by interacting with dendritic cells, macrophages, and epithelial cells, leading to the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10 and TGF-β.[4][5] Additionally, certain probiotic strains produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which serve as energy sources for colonocytes and have anti-inflammatory properties.[6] These mechanisms collectively contribute to the maintenance of gut homeostasis and the prevention of dysbiosis-related diseases.
What are the mechanisms of action of Probiotics?
Action | Mechanism |
---|---|
Enhancement of gut barrier integrity | Probiotics upregulate tight junction proteins (e.g., occludin, claudins), reducing intestinal permeability and preventing endotoxemia.[7][8] |
Modulation of immune response | Probiotics modulate both innate and adaptive immunity by promoting IL-10 and TGF-β secretion, while suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6.[9][10] |
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production | Probiotics help restore gut microbiota balance by enhancing the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and other metabolites that regulate immune and metabolic processes.[11] |
Competitive exclusion | Probiotics inhibit pathogens by outcompeting them for adhesion sites and nutrients on the mucosa.[12] |
Production of antimicrobial agents | Probiotic strains synthesize substances like lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and bacteriocins that directly inhibit or kill pathogens.[13] |
Neurochemical modulation (GBA axis) | Some probiotics affect mood and cognition by modulating neurotransmitters (e.g., GABA, serotonin), influencing the gut-brain axis.[14][15] |
Modulation of metabolic pathways | Probiotics influence lipid metabolism, glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity by affecting AMPK and PPAR pathways.[16] |
Microbial Implications
Probiotics influence the composition and function of the gut microbiota. They can inhibit pathogenic bacteria through competitive exclusion, production of antimicrobial substances (e.g., bacteriocins), and modulation of the local environment (e.g., pH reduction).[17] Probiotic administration has been associated with increased abundance of beneficial taxa such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, known for its anti-inflammatory effects, and Akkermansia muciniphila, which is involved in mucin degradation and gut barrier maintenance.[18]
What are the microbial implications of Probiotics?
Microbiome Implication | Mechanism |
---|---|
Increases in beneficial taxa | Supplementation with Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Akkermansia has been shown to increase these health-promoting microbes in the gut, enhancing anti-inflammatory effects.[19] |
Suppression of opportunistic/pathogenic taxa | Probiotics suppress pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Clostridioides difficile, and Salmonella spp. through production of organic acids and bacteriocins.[20][21] |
Restoration of microbial diversity post-antibiotic | Post-antibiotic, probiotics help restore alpha and beta diversity by promoting recolonization with beneficial strains, mitigating dysbiosis.[22] |
Functional gene expression enhancement | Probiotics can modulate the expression of genes involved in SCFA synthesis, vitamin biosynthesis, and bile salt metabolism.[23][24][25] |
Mucin regulation and epithelial interaction | Akkermansia muciniphila and other probiotics increase mucin layer thickness, aiding in pathogen exclusion and barrier reinforcement.[26] |
Conditions
Given their ability to interact with the host’s microbiome, probiotics have been investigated for their clinical applications in treating a variety of conditions, ranging from gastrointestinal diseases to metabolic disorders and mental health issues.
Condition | Validation Status |
---|---|
Bacterial Vaginosis | Validated |
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) | Validated |
Endometriosis | In Progress |
Antibiotic-associated diarrhea | Validated |
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) | Validated |
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) | Promising |
Atopic dermatitis | Promising |
Respiratory tract infections | Promising |
Depression and anxiety | Promising |
Clinical Evidence
Probiotics have shown efficacy in treating various conditions, particularly gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG have been effective in reducing the duration of diarrhea, while Bifidobacterium infantis alleviates bloating and abdominal discomfort in IBS.[27][28] Probiotics have also demonstrated benefits in conditions outside the gut, including bacterial vaginosis (BV), where Lactobacillus species help restore vaginal microbiota, and in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), where they aid in metabolic and hormonal regulation.[29][30] Additionally, emerging studies highlight their role in managing endometriosis and reducing systemic inflammation in conditions like metabolic syndrome and depression by modulating the gut-brain axis.[31]
Dosage
The typical dosage of probiotics varies depending on the strain, the condition being treated, and the formulation used. Generally, clinical studies and practice use doses starting from 1 × 108 colony-forming units (CFUs) per day. For example, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG is commonly dosed at 2 × 109 CFUs daily for preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea.[32] In conditions like Clostridioides difficile infections, higher doses per day may be used. Probiotics are available in various formulations, including powders, capsules, and liquids, with some designed to enhance bioavailability. Enteric-coated capsules are used to protect probiotics from stomach acid, ensuring they reach the intestines, while timed-release formulations offer a prolonged release of probiotics. Some clinical trials may also use higher doses in specialized settings, particularly for inflammatory conditions, where doses up to 1012 CFUs may be employed.[33][34]
Safety
Probiotics are generally regarded as safe for most individuals, but there are some important considerations. In immunocompromised individuals, probiotics may pose a risk of bacteremia or fungemia, as rare cases of infections have been reported.[35] These cases are typically seen in individuals with severe underlying health conditions, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or those with compromised immune systems. Some people may experience mild gastrointestinal side effects, such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea, particularly when starting probiotic supplementation. While these effects are usually temporary and resolve as the body adjusts, they can be uncomfortable.[36] Some probiotic strains may also interact with certain medications or conditions; for example, probiotics that produce lactic acid may interfere with calcium absorption in individuals with metabolic bone disorders. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting probiotics, especially for individuals with preexisting conditions.
FAQs
How do probiotics specifically influence the microbiome to target systemic inflammation and metabolic health?
Probiotics influence systemic inflammation and metabolic health by modulating the gut microbiome, which plays a central role in regulating immune responses and metabolic processes. Certain probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, can alter the microbiota composition, increasing the abundance of anti-inflammatory microbes while decreasing pro-inflammatory bacteria. This results in a reduction of systemic inflammation, a key factor in conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Probiotics achieve this through the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyrate, which not only provide energy for colonocytes but also act as powerful anti-inflammatory agents that influence immune cell activity. Additionally, probiotics can enhance the microbiome’s ability to metabolize dietary fibers, leading to beneficial changes in bile acid metabolism, which directly impacts lipid profiles and glucose regulation. These shifts help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce fat mass, and regulate lipid metabolism.
Research Feed
Did you know?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) increases the risk of acquiring HIV by up to 60% in women due to the disruption of the protective vaginal microbiome and the resulting inflammation that facilitates the virus’s entry.
The study shows that Lactobacillus crispatus inhibits the growth of Gardnerella vaginalis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae by lowering pH and producing lactic acid, offering insights into microbiome-targeted interventions for bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections.
What was Studied?
The study investigated the effects of Lactobacillus crispatus on the growth of Gardnerella vaginalis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae using a porcine vaginal mucosa (PVM) model. It aimed to explore how Lactobacillus crispatus influences the growth of these pathogens and whether it could help prevent or inhibit infection through mechanisms such as the production of lactic acid and pH reduction.
Who was Studied?
The study focused on human clinical isolates of Lactobacillus crispatus, Gardnerella vaginalis, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The researchers inoculated these isolates into the ex vivo PVM to observe their colonization, biofilm formation, and interactions.
What were the Most Important Findings?
The study revealed that Lactobacillus crispatus significantly inhibited the growth of both Gardnerella vaginalis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae on the porcine vaginal mucosa model. This inhibition occurred primarily due to the lactic acid production by L. crispatus, which lowered the vaginal pH to levels hostile to these pathogens. The results showed that both G. vaginalis and N. gonorrhoeae grew and formed biofilms at clinically relevant densities on PVM. In particular, the biofilm formation by G. vaginalis and N. gonorrhoeae was evident, and the presence of L. crispatus hindered this process. The production of lactic acid by L. crispatus was crucial for reducing the pH below 5.5, which subsequently inhibited pathogen growth. Conditioned media (CM) from L. crispatus cultures inhibited the growth of N. gonorrhoeae, even when the pH was adjusted to levels conducive for its growth.
What are the Implications of this Study?
The study demonstrates that Lactobacillus crispatus, a key member of the vaginal microbiota, plays a significant protective role against the colonization of harmful pathogens like Gardnerella vaginalis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It exerts direct antimicrobial effects and modulates vaginal pH through lactic acid production. By lowering pH, L. crispatus shows potential as both a therapeutic agent and a preventive measure against bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections, including gonorrhea. This finding supports the importance of maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiota dominated by Lactobacillus species to reduce susceptibility to infections. The PVM model serves as a valuable tool for studying the complex interactions between vaginal microbiota and pathogens, offering insights into the development of targeted microbiome-based interventions.
This study evaluates the impact of probiotic supplementation on insulin resistance and inflammation in women with PCOS. The results suggest that probiotics may help improve insulin sensitivity but have limited effects on inflammation markers.
What was studied?
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial studied the effects of probiotic supplementation on pancreatic β-cell function and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The aim was to explore how probiotics might influence insulin sensitivity, metabolic parameters, and inflammation markers in PCOS, which is often associated with insulin resistance, inflammation, and hyperandrogenism.
Who was studied?
The study involved 72 women diagnosed with PCOS based on the Rotterdam criteria. These women were aged between 15 and 40 years and were randomly assigned to receive either probiotic supplementation (n=36) or a placebo (n=36) for 8 weeks. The study excluded participants with other chronic diseases, thyroid disorders, or those who had recently used medications such as antibiotics, insulin, or corticosteroids. All participants underwent fasting blood tests before and after the 8-week intervention to measure fasting blood sugar (FBS), serum insulin, HOMA-IR, and CRP levels.
What were the most important findings?
The primary findings of the study suggest that while probiotic supplementation did not significantly affect CRP or pancreatic β-cell function in the PCOS women, there were some beneficial effects on insulin metabolism. Specifically, serum insulin levels were significantly reduced in the probiotic group after adjusting for covariates, such as age, BMI, and physical activity. There was also a non-significant reduction in fasting blood sugar (FBS) and HOMA-IR in the probiotic group, suggesting potential improvements in insulin sensitivity. However, the study did not find significant changes in CRP levels, indicating that the probiotics may have had a limited impact on inflammation in this cohort.
From a microbiome perspective, probiotics are known to modulate gut microbiota, which plays a crucial role in regulating insulin sensitivity and inflammation. The positive changes in serum insulin levels and HOMA-IR suggest that the probiotics may have helped restore balance in the gut microbiome, potentially reducing insulin resistance, a hallmark of PCOS. However, the lack of significant changes in CRP levels suggests that probiotics alone may not be enough to significantly modulate systemic inflammation in PCOS patients, or a longer supplementation period may be required for more pronounced effects.
What are the greatest implications of this study?
This study provides valuable insights into the potential role of probiotics in managing metabolic and endocrine dysfunctions associated with PCOS. While the effects on insulin resistance were promising, the lack of significant impact on inflammation (as measured by CRP) indicates that probiotics may need to be combined with other therapeutic interventions to fully address the multifactorial nature of PCOS. Clinically, probiotics could be considered as a supplementary treatment for improving insulin sensitivity in PCOS, particularly in patients with insulin resistance. However, further studies with larger sample sizes and longer treatment durations are necessary to confirm the benefits and establish specific probiotic strains and dosages for PCOS management.
Did you know?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) increases the risk of acquiring HIV by up to 60% in women due to the disruption of the protective vaginal microbiome and the resulting inflammation that facilitates the virus’s entry.
This study evaluated a Saccharomyces cerevisiae-based probiotic for bacterial vaginosis treatment. The probiotic selectively inhibited BV-associated pathogens like G. vaginalis without harming beneficial lactobacilli, offering a microbiome-friendly alternative to antibiotics.
What was Studied?
The study investigated the potential therapeutic effects of a Saccharomyces cerevisiae-based probiotic as a novel antimicrobial agent in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis (BV). The researchers aimed to evaluate whether this yeast-based probiotic could inhibit the growth of BV-associated pathogenic bacteria and restore vaginal microbial balance, offering an alternative to standard antibiotic treatments.
Who was Studied?
The study utilized in vitro models to assess the antimicrobial activity of the S. cerevisiae-based probiotic against a range of bacterial strains associated with bacterial vaginosis, including Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, Mobiluncus curtisii, and others. No human or animal participants were involved; rather, laboratory strains of pathogenic bacteria were cultured and tested against the probiotic formulation.
What were the most Important Findings?
The study revealed that the S. cerevisiae-based probiotic demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity against key BV-associated pathogens. Specifically, the probiotic effectively inhibited the growth of G. vaginalis, A. vaginae, M. curtisii, and Prevotella bivia in vitro. Notably, the inhibition was dose-dependent, with higher concentrations of the probiotic resulting in greater suppression of these pathogens. Importantly, the probiotic did not affect beneficial Lactobacillus species such as L. crispatus and L. jensenii, which are critical for maintaining vaginal health. This selectivity highlights a significant microbial signature, the probiotic selectively targeted pathogenic bacteria associated with dysbiosis while sparing commensal, health-associated bacteria. Additionally, the study suggested that the probiotic may modulate the vaginal microbiome by reducing the overgrowth of anaerobic pathogens without disrupting the protective lactobacilli.
What are the Implications of this Study?
The findings of this study have significant implications for the management of bacterial vaginosis. Current BV treatments rely heavily on antibiotics, which often lead to recurrence and may disrupt the vaginal microbiota by eliminating beneficial lactobacilli alongside pathogens. The yeast-based probiotic offers a non-antibiotic therapeutic strategy that can selectively inhibit BV-associated pathogens while preserving or even promoting beneficial microbial populations. This approach could potentially reduce recurrence rates, limit the development of antibiotic resistance, and improve vaginal microbiome resilience. For clinicians, this highlights a promising avenue for microbiome-informed interventions in BV management that target dysbiosis while maintaining microbial balance.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota, where the typically dominant Lactobacillus species are significantly reduced, leading to an overgrowth of anaerobic and facultative bacteria.
Probiotic interventions, particularly those involving Lactobacillus crispatus and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, restore balance to the vaginal microbiome in bacterial vaginosis (BV). By reducing dominant anaerobes like Gardnerella vaginalis and promoting recolonization with protective Lactobacillus, these therapies validate both their role as microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs) and the diagnostic accuracy of the BV microbiome signature.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance. It is often associated with metabolic dysfunctions and inflammation, leading to fertility issues and increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Probiotic supplementation addresses microbial dysbiosis and inflammatory processes in PCOS, improving metabolic and hormonal outcomes, thereby validating its role as an MBTI.
Endometriosis involves ectopic endometrial tissue causing pain and infertility. Validated and Promising Interventions include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), Low Nickel Diet, and Metronidazole therapy.
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota, where the typically dominant Lactobacillus species are significantly reduced, leading to an overgrowth of anaerobic and facultative bacteria.
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance. It is often associated with metabolic dysfunctions and inflammation, leading to fertility issues and increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota, where the typically dominant Lactobacillus species are significantly reduced, leading to an overgrowth of anaerobic and facultative bacteria.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota, where the typically dominant Lactobacillus species are significantly reduced, leading to an overgrowth of anaerobic and facultative bacteria.
References
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- Probiotic Mechanisms Affecting Glucose Homeostasis: A Scoping Review. Pintarič, M., & Langerholc, T. (2022). (Life, 12(8), 1187.)
- Bacteriocin-Producing Probiotic Lactic Acid Bacteria in Controlling Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota. Anjana, Tiwari SK.. (Infect Microbiol. 2022 May 16;12:851140.)
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- A review on probiotics and dietary bioactives: Insights on metabolic well-being, gut microbiota, and inflammatory responses. Mafe, A. N., Edo, G. I., Majeed, O. S., Gaaz, T. S., Akpoghelie, P. O., Isoje, E. F., Igbuku, U. A., Owheruo, J. O., Opiti, R. A., Garba, Y., Essaghah, A. E. A., Ahmed, D. S., & Umar, H. (2025). (Food Chemistry Advances, 6, 100919.)
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Ji J, Jin W, Liu SJ, Jiao Z, Li X.
Probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics in health and diseaseMedComm (2020). 2023 Nov 4;4(6):e420.
Sarita B, Samadhan D, Hassan MZ and Kovaleva EG (2025)
A comprehensive review of probiotics and human health-current prospective and applicationsFront. Microbiol. 15:1487641
Miriam Bermudez-Brito, Julio Plaza-Díaz, Sergio Muñoz-Quezada, Carolina Gómez-Llorente, Angel Gil
Probiotic Mechanisms of ActionAnn Nutr Metab 1 October 2012; 61 (2): 160–174
Mafe, A. N., Edo, G. I., Majeed, O. S., Gaaz, T. S., Akpoghelie, P. O., Isoje, E. F., Igbuku, U. A., Owheruo, J. O., Opiti, R. A., Garba, Y., Essaghah, A. E. A., Ahmed, D. S., & Umar, H. (2025)
A review on probiotics and dietary bioactives: Insights on metabolic well-being, gut microbiota, and inflammatory responsesFood Chemistry Advances, 6, 100919.
Mafe, A. N., Edo, G. I., Majeed, O. S., Gaaz, T. S., Akpoghelie, P. O., Isoje, E. F., Igbuku, U. A., Owheruo, J. O., Opiti, R. A., Garba, Y., Essaghah, A. E. A., Ahmed, D. S., & Umar, H. (2025)
A review on probiotics and dietary bioactives: Insights on metabolic well-being, gut microbiota, and inflammatory responsesFood Chemistry Advances, 6, 100919.
Thomas CM, Versalovic J.
Probiotics-host communication: Modulation of signaling pathways in the intestineGut Microbes. 2010 May-Jun;1(3):148-63.
DiMattia, Z., Damani, J. J., Van Syoc, E., & Rogers, C. J. (2023).
Effect of Probiotic Supplementation on Intestinal Permeability in Overweight and Obesity: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials and Animal StudiesAdvances in Nutrition, 15(1), 100162
Mazziotta C, Tognon M, Martini F, Torreggiani E, Rotondo JC.
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