The probiotic Escherichia coli strain Nissle 1917 interferes with invasion of human intestinal epithelial cells by different enteroinvasive bacterial pathogens 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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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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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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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
-
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?
This study focused on the probioticEscherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) and its ability to interfere with the invasion of human intestinal epithelial cells by several enteroinvasive bacterial pathogens, including Salmonella enterica, Yersinia enterocolitica, Shigella flexneri, Legionella pneumophila, and Listeria monocytogenes. The researchers sought to determine whether EcN could inhibit bacterial invasion without affecting the viability of the pathogens. They explored the mechanisms behind this interference, specifically examining whether it was due to the production of microcins, physical contact, or secreted components.
Who was studied?
The study primarily investigated Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN), an established probiotic strain, and its isogenic microcin-negative mutant (SK22D). Various bacterial strains were used as invasive pathogens, including Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, Yersinia enterocolitica, Shigella flexneri, Legionella pneumophila, and Listeria monocytogenes. Human intestinal epithelial cells (INT407 cells) were employed as a model for studying bacterial invasion, providing insight into EcN’s anti-invasive properties in human gut cells.
Most important findings
The study revealed that E. coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) significantly interfered with the invasion of human intestinal epithelial cells by various enteroinvasive pathogens, reducing the invasion efficiency by up to 70%. This inhibitory effect was not dependent on direct physical contact between EcN and either the invasive bacteria or the epithelial cells. The anti-invasive effect of EcN was observed even when EcN was separated from the epithelial cells and pathogens by a membrane. Furthermore, the inhibition was not due to the production of microcins, as the microcin-negative mutant SK22D was equally effective in preventing invasion. This suggests that EcN’s anti-invasive activity relies on a secreted component rather than bacteriocin-like substances. Notably, EcN did not affect the viability of the pathogens during the invasion process, suggesting that its primary role is to prevent entry into host cells rather than kill the bacteria.
Key implications
The findings suggest that Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) offers a promising mechanism for preventing bacterial infections by inhibiting pathogen invasion into intestinal cells. This effect could be particularly beneficial in avoiding gastrointestinal infections caused by pathogens such as Salmonella, Shigella, and Listeria. Since EcN’s action does not rely on direct contact with pathogens or epithelial cells and does not affect pathogen viability, it represents a safe and effective probiotic strategy to enhance gut barrier function. The results highlight EcN’s potential as a therapeutic agent in preventing bacterial invasion without disrupting the balance of the gut microbiota.
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.
E. coli Nissle 1917
Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) is a rare, non-pathogenic strain of E. coli discovered during World War I from a soldier who did not get dysentery while others did. Unlike harmful E. coli, EcN acts as a probiotic: it settles in the gut, competes with bad bacteria for food and space, produces natural antimicrobials, and even helps strengthen the gut barrier.