Protective Effects of Lactobacillus plantarum CCFM8246 against Copper Toxicity in Mice Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
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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Metals
Metals
OverviewHeavy metals play a significant and multifaceted role in the pathogenicity of microbial species. Their involvement can be viewed from two primary perspectives: the toxicity of heavy metals to microbes and the exploitation of heavy metals by microbial pathogens to establish infections and evade the host immune response. Understanding these aspects is critical for both […]
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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 study investigated the protective effects of Lactobacillus plantarum CCFM8246 against copper toxicity in mice. Copper, while essential in small quantities, can be toxic in excess, leading to oxidative stress and organ damage, especially in the liver, kidneys, and brain. The researchers focused on whether Lactobacillus plantarum could mitigate the effects of copper exposure by promoting copper excretion, reducing copper accumulation in tissues, and reversing oxidative stress.
Who was studied?
The study used adult male C57BL/6 mice, aged approximately 8 weeks and weighing between 28 and 30 grams. These mice were divided into groups to evaluate the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum CCFM8246 in two settings: an intervention group, where the probiotic was co-administered with copper, and a therapy group, where treatment began after the copper exposure had been established.
Most important findings
The findings revealed that Lactobacillus plantarum CCFM8246 significantly increased copper content in the feces of treated mice, indicating enhanced copper excretion. This helped reduce copper accumulation in the liver, kidneys, and brain. The strain also alleviated oxidative stress, as shown by improved levels of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase) and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Furthermore, Lactobacillus plantarum improved liver function, reflected in the normalization of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels. Most notably, spatial memory and cognitive function, measured through Morris water maze experiments, improved in copper-exposed mice treated with the probiotic, demonstrating its potential neuroprotective effects.
Key implications
This study highlights the potential of Lactobacillus plantarum as a therapeutic agent to counteract copper toxicity, a growing environmental and industrial concern. Its ability to enhance copper excretion and alleviate oxidative stress makes it a promising candidate for inclusion in future probiotic-based treatments for metal toxicity. The findings also suggest that Lactobacillus plantarum could be used as a complementary approach to conventional copper chelation therapies, offering a less invasive method with fewer side effects. Given the strain’s tolerance to gastric and bile environments, it holds potential as a probiotic for clinical applications.
Copper (Cu)
Copper serves as both a vital nutrient and a potential toxin, with its regulation having profound effects on microbial pathogenesis and immune responses. In the body, copper interacts with pathogens, either supporting essential enzyme functions or hindering microbial growth through its toxicity. The gastrointestinal tract, immune cells, and bloodstream are key sites where copper plays a crucial role in controlling infection and maintaining microbial balance. Understanding copper’s interactions with the microbiome and host defenses allows for targeted clinical strategies.