Probiotics Mechanism of Action on Immune Cells and Beneficial Effects on Human Health Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
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Divine Aleru
Read MoreI 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.
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Probiotics
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 (IBS), antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), and even mental health conditions like depression and anxiety through their impact on the gut-brain axis.
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Microbes
Microbes
Microbes, short for microorganisms, are tiny living organisms that are ubiquitous in the environment, including on and inside the human body. They play a crucial role in human health and disease, functioning within complex ecosystems in various parts of the body, such as the skin, mouth, gut, and respiratory tract. The human microbiome, which is […]
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
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.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
The review explores the immunomodulatory effects of probiotics on the human immune system. It focuses on the mechanisms through which probiotics interact with immune cells, specifically in the gut, to regulate immune responses and improve overall health. The article emphasizes the role of probiotics in enhancing immune system functions, particularly in preventing infections, reducing inflammation, and maintaining homeostasis. It also delves into the molecular mechanisms, including cytokine release and receptor interactions, that facilitate these beneficial effects.
Who was studied?
The review synthesizes findings from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies involving various probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Escherichia coli, as well as their effects on different immune cells, including T lymphocytes, dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages, and B cells. It highlights studies on both healthy individuals and those with conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infections, allergies, and immune dysfunctions. The focus is on how these probiotic strains influence immune functions, such as the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and the modulation of inflammatory cytokines.
Most important findings
Probiotics, particularly strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, enhance immune responses by interacting with the gut’s immune cells. They stimulate the production of IgA, modulate Treg (regulatory T) cells, and regulate the release of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. For instance, Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus rhamnosus were found to increase IgA production and enhance immune functions in both healthy and disease states. Probiotics also promote the expression of key immune receptors like TLR2 and CD206 on immune cells, thereby facilitating immune activation and modulation. Additionally, probiotics play a role in gut health by improving the intestinal barrier, preventing pathogen adhesion, and promoting beneficial microbial interactions. These effects are particularly important for managing conditions like IBD, allergies, and infections.
Key implications
The findings suggest that probiotics are an effective tool for enhancing immune system performance, particularly in regulating inflammatory responses and preventing immune-related disorders. The immunomodulatory properties of probiotics offer a potential therapeutic approach for conditions like allergies, IBD, and even infections. By modulating immune responses in the gut, probiotics may also have broader systemic effects on overall health, including influencing the gut-brain axis and the gut-lung axis. Further research into the specific molecular pathways and probiotic strains is needed to optimize their use in clinical practice.
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 (IBS), antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), and even mental health conditions like depression and anxiety through their impact on the gut-brain axis.