Immunomodulatory Effects of Polysaccharides Produced by Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1

Lacticaseibacillus casei K11 exerts immunomodulatory effects by enhancing natural killer cell cytotoxicity via the extracellular regulated-protein kinase pathway

PURPOSE

Probiotics can serve as immunomodulators that regulate the activation of immune cells. This study aimed to screen potential probiotic strains that can enhance NK cell toxicity to improve host immunity.

METHODS

In this investigation, we examined three potential probiotic strains, namely Lactiplantibacillus plantarum YZX21 (YZX21), Bifidobacterium bifidum FL-276.1 (FL-276.1) and Lacticaseibacillus casei K11 (K11), to assess their capacity in modulating NK cytotoxicity both in vitro and in vivo, while elucidating the underlying mechanisms involved.

RESULTS

The findings demonstrated that K11 exhibited superior efficacy in enhancing NK cytotoxicity. Subsequent analysis revealed that K11 significantly augmented the secretion of perforin and granzyme B by NK cells through activation of receptors NKp30 and NKp46 via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway. Furthermore, heat-inactivated K11 also enhanced NK cell activity to an extent comparable to live bacteria, with lipoteichoic acid from K11 identified as a crucial factor mediating the activation of NK cell cytotoxicity.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that K11 may have potential applications as probiotics or postbiotics for regulating NK cell cytotoxicity to enhance immunity.

In vitro investigation of the effects of Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 exopolysaccharides on tight junction damage caused by influenza virus infection

It is a problem that influenza virus infection increases susceptibility to secondary bacterial infection in lungs leading to lethal pneumonia. We previously reported that exopolysaccharides (EPS) derived from Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 (OLL1073R-1) could prevent against influenza virus infection followed by secondary bacterial infection in vitro. Therefore, the present study assessed whether EPS derived OLL1073R-1 protects the alveolar epithelial barrier disfunction caused by influenza virus infection. After A549 cells treated with EPS or without EPS were infected influenza virus A/Puerto Rico/8/34 (IFV) for 12 h, the levels of tight junction genes expression and inflammatory genes expression were measured by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. As results, EPS treatment could protect against low-titer IFV infection, but not high-titer IFV infection, followed by suppression of the increased expression of inflammatory cytokine gene levels and recovery of the decrease in the expression level of ZO-1 gene that was caused by low-titer IFV infection, leading to an improvement trend in the barrier function. Our findings showed that EPS derived from OLL1073R-1 could inhibit low-titer IFV infection leading to maintenance of the epithelial barrier function through the suppression of inflammatory cytokine genes expression.

Cutaneous wound healing promoted by topical administration of heat-killed Lactobacillus plantarum KB131 and possible contribution of CARD9-mediated signaling

Optimal conditions for wound healing require a smooth transition from the early stage of inflammation to proliferation, and during this time alternatively activated (M2) macrophages play a central role. Recently, heat-killed lactic acid bacteria (LAB), such as Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) have been reported as possible modulators affecting the immune responses in wound healing. However, how signaling molecules regulate this process after the administration of heat-killed LAB remains unclear. In this study, we examined the effect of heat-killed L. plantarum KB131 (KB131) administration on wound healing and the contribution of CARD9, which is an essential signaling adaptor molecule for NF-kB activation upon triggering through C-type lectin receptors, in the effects of this bacterium. We analyzed wound closure, histological findings, and inflammatory responses. We found that administration of KB131 accelerated wound closure, re-epithelialization, granulation area, CD31-positive vessels, and α-SMA-positive myofibroblast accumulated area, as well as the local infiltration of leukocytes. In particular, M2 macrophages were increased, in parallel with CCL5 synthesis. The acceleration of wound healing responses by KB131 was canceled in CARD9-knockout mice. These results indicate that the topical administration of KB131 accelerates wound healing, accompanying increased M2 macrophages, which suggests that CARD9 may be involved in these responses.

Identification of novel lactic acid bacteria with enhanced protective effects against influenza virus

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) exert health-beneficial effects by regulating innate immunity in the intestinal tract. Due to growing health awareness, the demand for LAB and studies have focused on identifying beneficial LAB strains is increasing, especially those that stimulate innate immunity. In this study, the LAB strain D279 (NITE_BP-03645, Latilactobacillus sakei) was isolated from among 741 LAB strains that were analyzed for their ability to induce interleukin 12 (IL-12) production and was subsequently characterized. D279 induced the highest expression of IL-12 among the screened LABs. Furthermore, D279 significantly activated antiviral genes and preferentially induced interferon (IFN)λ expression in vitro, which plays a critical role in the epithelial tissue, thereby conferring strong anti-influenza potency without inflammation. However, it decreased the IFNα levels. The administration of pasteurized D279 to mice resulted in strong anti-influenza potency, with higher natural killer (NK) cell activity and a lower viral load in the lung than in the control. Importantly, none of the D279-administered mice were sacrificed during the viral infection tests. These results suggest that D279 administration confers beneficial effects by regulating innate immunity and that it may be relevant for commercial use in the future.

COVID-19 Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products

Despite the fact that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) treatment and management are now considerably regulated, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still one of the leading causes of death in 2022. The availability of COVID-19 vaccines, FDA-approved antivirals, and monoclonal antibodies in low-income countries still poses an issue to be addressed. Natural products, particularly traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) and medicinal plant extracts (or their active component), have challenged the dominance of drug repurposing and synthetic compound libraries in COVID-19 therapeutics. Their abundant resources and excellent antiviral performance make natural products a relatively cheap and readily available alternative for COVID-19 therapeutics. Here, we deliberately review the anti-SARS-CoV-2 mechanisms of the natural products, their potency (pharmacological profiles), and application strategies for COVID-19 intervention. In light of their advantages, this review is intended to acknowledge the potential of natural products as COVID-19 therapeutic candidates.

Inulin increases the EPS biosynthesis of Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus LDB-C1

OBJECTIVE

Its eps gene cluster, the antioxidant activity and monosaccharide composition of exopolysaccharides, the expression levels of related genes at different fermentations were analyzed for clarifying the exopolysaccharide biosynthesis mechanism of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus LDB-C1.

RESULTS

The comparison analysis of eps gene clusters indicated that the gene clusters present diversity and strain specificity. The crude exopolysaccharides from LDB-C1 exhibited a good antioxidant activity. Compared with glucose, fructose, galactose, and fructooligosaccharide, inulin significantly improved the exopolysaccharide biosynthesis. The structures of EPSs were significantly different under different carbohydrate fermentation conditions. Inulin obviously increased the expressions of most EPS biosynthesis related genes at fermentation 4 h.

CONCLUSION

Inulin accelerated the beginning of the exopolysaccharide production in LDB-C1, and the enzymes promoted by inulin was beneficial for the accumulation of exopolysaccharide at the whole fermentation process.

Phosphorylated polysaccharides: Applications, natural abundance, and new-to-nature structures generated by chemical and enzymatic functionalization

Polysaccharides are foreseen as serious candidates for the future generation of polymers, as they are biosourced and biodegradable materials. Their functionalisation is an attractive way to modify their properties, thereby increasing their range of applications. Introduction of phosphate groups in polysaccharide chains for the stimulation of the immune system was first described in the nineteen seventies. Since then, the use of phosphorylated polysaccharides has been proposed in various domains, such as healthcare, water treatment, cosmetic, biomaterials, etc. These alternative usages capitalize on newly acquired physico-chemical or biological properties, leading to materials as diverse as flame-resistant agents or drug delivery systems. Phosphorylated polysaccharides are found in Nature and need to be extracted to assess their biological potential. However, they are not abundant, often present complex backbones hard to characterize, and most of them have a low phosphate content. These drawbacks have pushed forward the development of chemical phosphorylation employing a wide variety of phosphorylating agents to obtain polysaccharides with a large range of phosphate content. Chemical phosphorylation requires the use of harsh conditions and toxic, petroleum-based solvents, which hinders their exploitation in the food and health industry. Over the last 20 years, although enzymes are regiospecific catalysts that work in aqueous and mild conditions, enzymatic phosphorylation has been little investigated. To date, only three families of enzymes have been used for the in vitro phosphorylation of polysaccharides. Considering the number of unresolved metabolic pathways leading to phosphorylated polysaccharides, the huge diversity of kinase sequences, and the recent progress in protein engineering one can envision native and engineered kinases as promising tools for polysaccharide phosphorylation.

Consumption of yogurt fermented with Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 augments serum antibody titers against seasonal influenza vaccine in healthy adults

Seasonal influenza is a major upper respiratory tract infection occurring in winter. Vaccination is the best method for preventing this infection. We conducted two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials to examine whether consumption of yogurt fermented with Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1, which has been reported to reduce the risk of catching the common cold, augments serum antibody titers against seasonal influenza vaccines. In the first trial, which included university students, serum antibody titers against influenza A (H3N2) and B viruses were significantly higher in the yogurt group than in the placebo group. According to the guidelines established by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the assessment of vaccines, the seroconversion rate and mean geometric increase of influenza A (H3N2) and seroprotection of influenza B met the criteria only in the yogurt group. In the second trial, which included healthy adults, serum antibody titers against influenza A (H1N1) and B viruses were significantly higher in the yogurt group than in the placebo group. The seroconversion rate and mean geometric increase of influenza B met the EMA criteria only in the yogurt group. Furthermore, the cumulative days of ill health, such as throat complaints, upper respiratory inflammation, and cold, were significantly lower in the yogurt group than in the placebo group. Therefore, daily intake of yogurt fermented with L. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 could reduce the duration of symptoms caused by respiratory infections and act as a mucosal adjuvant enhancing acquired immune responses against vaccines, leading to the improvement of public health.

Exopolysaccharides of Lactic Acid Bacteria: Production, Purification and Health Benefits towards Functional Food

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are capable of synthesising metabolites known as exopolysaccharides (EPS) during fermentation. Traditionally, EPS plays an important role in fermented dairy products through their gelling and thickening properties, but they can also be beneficial to human health. This bioactivity has gained attention in applications for functional foods, which leads them to have prebiotic, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-tumour, cholesterol-lowering and anti-obesity activity. Understanding the parameters and conditions is crucial to optimising the EPS yields from LAB for applications in the food industry. This review provides an overview of the functional food market together with the biosynthesis of EPS. Factors influencing the production of EPS as well as methods for isolation, characterisation and quantification are reviewed. Finally, the health benefits associated with EPS are discussed.

Proteobacteria and Firmicutes Secreted Factors Exert Distinct Effects on Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection under Normoxia or Mild Hypoxia

Microbiota may alter a pathogen's virulence potential at polymicrobial infection sites. Here, we developed a multi-modal Drosophila assay, amenable to the assessment of human bacterial interactions using fly survival or midgut regeneration as a readout, under normoxia or mild hypoxia. Deploying a matrix of 12 by 33 one-to-one Drosophila co-infections via feeding, we classified bacterial interactions as neutral, synergistic, or antagonistic, based on fly survival. Twenty six percent of these interactions were antagonistic, mainly occurring between Proteobacteria. Specifically, Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection was antagonized by various Klebsiella strains, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Escherichia coli. We validated these interactions in a second screen of 7 by 34 one-to-one Drosophila co-infections based on assessments of midgut regeneration, and in bacterial co-culture test tube assays, where antagonistic interactions depended on secreted factors produced upon high sugar availability. Moreover, Enterococci interacted synergistically with P. aeruginosa in flies and in test tubes, enhancing the virulence and pyocyanin production by P. aeruginosa. However, neither lactic acid bacteria nor their severely hypoxic culture supernatants provided a survival benefit upon P. aeruginosa infection of flies or mice, respectively. We propose that at normoxic or mildly hypoxic sites, Firmicutes may exacerbate, whereas Proteobacteria secreted factors may ameliorate, P. aeruginosa infections.

The Complex Role of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Food Detoxification

Toxic ingredients in food can lead to serious food-related diseases. Such compounds are bacterial toxins (Shiga-toxin, listeriolysin, Botulinum toxin), mycotoxins (aflatoxin, ochratoxin, zearalenone, fumonisin), pesticides of different classes (organochlorine, organophosphate, synthetic pyrethroids), heavy metals, and natural antinutrients such as phytates, oxalates, and cyanide-generating glycosides. The generally regarded safe (GRAS) status and long history of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as essential ingredients of fermented foods and probiotics make them a major biological tool against a great variety of food-related toxins. This state-of-the-art review aims to summarize and discuss the data revealing the involvement of LAB in the detoxification of foods from hazardous agents of microbial and chemical nature. It is focused on the specific properties that allow LAB to counteract toxins and destroy them, as well as on the mechanisms of microbial antagonism toward toxigenic producers. Toxins of microbial origin are either adsorbed or degraded, toxic chemicals are hydrolyzed and then used as a carbon source, while heavy metals are bound and accumulated. Based on these comprehensive data, the prospects for developing new combinations of probiotic starters for food detoxification are considered.

Dietary Lactobacillus-Derived Exopolysaccharide Enhances Immune-Checkpoint Blockade Therapy

Microbes and their byproducts have been reported to regulate host health and immune functions. Here we demonstrated that microbial exopolysaccharide produced by Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 (EPS-R1) induced CCR6+ CD8+ T cells of mice and humans. In mice, ingestion of EPS-R1 augmented antitumor effects of anti-CTLA-4 or anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody against CCL20-expressing tumors, in which infiltrating CCR6+ CD8+ T cells were increased and produced IFNγ accompanied by a substantial immune response gene expression signature maintaining T-cell functions. Of note, the antitumor adjuvant effect of EPS-R1 was also observed in germ-free mice. Furthermore, the induction of CCR6 expression was mediated through the phosphorylated structure in EPS-R1 and a lysophosphatidic acid receptor on CD8+ T cells. Overall, we find that dietary EPS-R1 consumption induces CCR6+ CD8+ T cells in Peyer's patches, favoring a tumor microenvironment that augments the therapeutic effect of immune-checkpoint blockade depending on CCL20 production by tumors.

SIGNIFICANCE

Gut microbiota- and probiotic-derived metabolites are attractive agents to augment the efficacy of immunotherapies. Here we demonstrated that dietary consumption of Lactobacillus-derived exopolysaccharide induced CCR6+ CD8+ T cells in Peyer's patches and improved the tumor microenvironment to augment the therapeutic effects of immune-checkpoint blockade against CCL20-producing tumors. See related commentary by Di Luccia and Colonna, p. 1189. This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1171.

Exopolysaccharides from Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 prevent influenza virus infection and attenuate secondary bacterial infection risk

The present study assessed the inhibitory action of exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by Lactobacillus delbrueckii spp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 against influenza virus infection followed by secondary bacterial infection. We found that the presence of 200 or 400 μg ml^-1 of EPS significantly protected against influenza virus infection in a dose-dependent manner when A549 cells were treated with EPS before infection but not after it. The expression of carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 1 (CEACAM-1), an adhesion molecule for bacteria adherence, on A549 cells was significantly enhanced during influenza virus infection compared to viral-non-infected A549 cells. However, this upregulated CEACAM-1 expression was significantly decreased by EPS treatment before viral infection in association with the reduction in the virus titer in A549 cells. In a bacterial adhesion assay using Staphylococcus aureus, the bacterial adherence to viral-infected A549 cells was significantly greater than that to viral-non-infected A549 cells, and the increased bacterial adherence induced by influenza virus infection tended to be decreased by EPS treatment before the infection. Our findings show that EPS treatment before viral infection can inhibit influenza virus infection and alleviate secondary bacterial infection through decreased CEACAM-1 expression.

Exopolysaccharides Produced by Lactic Acid Bacteria: From Biosynthesis to Health-Promoting Properties

The production of exopolysaccharides (EPS) by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) has attracted particular interest in the food industry. EPS can be considered as natural biothickeners as they are produced in situ by LAB and improve the rheological properties of fermented foods. Moreover, much research has been conducted on the beneficial effects of EPS produced by LAB on modulating the gut microbiome and promoting health. The EPS, which varies widely in composition and structure, may have diverse health effects, such as glycemic control, calcium and magnesium absorption, cholesterol-lowering, anticarcinogenic, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant effects. In this article, the latest advances on structure, biosynthesis, and physicochemical properties of LAB-derived EPS are described in detail. This is followed by a summary of up-to-date methods used to detect, characterize and elucidate the structure of EPS produced by LAB. In addition, current strategies on the use of LAB-produced EPS in food products have been discussed, focusing on beneficial applications in dairy products, gluten-free bakery products, and low-fat meat products, as they positively influence the consistency, stability, and quality of the final product. Highlighting is also placed on reports of health-promoting effects, with particular emphasis on prebiotic, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, cholesterol-lowering, anti-biofilm, antimicrobial, anticancer, and drug-delivery activities.

Exopolysaccharide Produced by Plant-Derived Lactobacillus plantarum SN35N Exhibits Antiviral Activity

A lactic acid bacterial strain, Lactobacillus plantarum SN35N, which has been isolated from the pear, secretes negatively charged acidic exopolysaccharide (EPS) to outside cells. We have previously found that the SN35N-derived acidic EPS inhibits the catalytic activity of hyaluronidase (EC 3.2.1.35) promoting inflammation. The aim of this study is to find other health benefits of EPS. EPS has been found to exhibit an inhibitory effect against the influenza virus (Alphainfluenzavirus Influenza A virus) and feline calicivirus (Vesivirus Feline calicivirus), which is recognized as a model of norovirus. Although more studies on the structure-function relationship of EPSs are needed, SN35N-derived EPS is a promising lead for developing not only anti-inflammatory agents, but also antiviral substances.

Lactobacillus delbrueckii CRL 581 Differentially Modulates TLR3-Triggered Antiviral Innate Immune Response in Intestinal Epithelial Cells and Macrophages

Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. lactis CRL 581 beneficially modulates the intestinal antiviral innate immune response triggered by the Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) agonist poly(I:C) in vivo. This study aimed to characterize further the immunomodulatory properties of the technologically relevant starter culture L. delbrueckii subsp. lactis CRL 581 by evaluating its interaction with intestinal epithelial cells and macrophages in the context of innate immune responses triggered by TLR3. Our results showed that the CRL 581 strain was able to adhere to porcine intestinal epithelial (PIE) cells and mucins. The CRL 581 strain also augmented the expression of antiviral factors (IFN-α, IFN-β, Mx1, OAS1, and OAS2) and reduced inflammatory cytokines in PIE cells triggered by TLR3 stimulation. In addition, the influence of L. delbrueckii subsp. lactis CRL 581 on the response of murine RAW macrophages to the activation of TLR3 was evaluated. The CRL 581 strain was capable of enhancing the expression of IFN-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ, Mx1, OAS1, TNF-α, and IL-1β. Of note, the CRL 581 strain also augmented the expression of IL-10 in macrophages. The results of this study show that the high proteolytic strain L. delbrueckii spp. lactis CRL 581 was able to beneficially modulate the intestinal innate antiviral immune response by regulating the response of both epithelial cells and macrophages relative to TLR3 activation.

The Exopolysaccharide Produced by Lactobacillus paracasei IJH-SONE68 Prevents and Ameliorates Inflammatory Responses in DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. IBD includes Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). CD can occur in any part of the gastrointestinal tract, whereas UC mainly occurs in the colon and rectum. We previously demonstrated that a novel exopolysaccharide (EPS) produced by a plant-derived bacterium, Lactobacillus paracasei IJH-SONE68, prevents and improves the inflammation in contact dermatitis model mice via oral administration. To evaluate the preventive effect of the EPS against other inflammatory diseases, in the present study, we employed dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC model mice. The stool consistency, hematochezia, and colonic atrophy of the mice were improved by the orally administered EPS. We also evaluated the cytokine transcription. Overexpression of the mouse macrophage inflammatory protein 2 mRNA in the colon as a functional homolog of human interleukin-8 was decreased by the orally administered EPS. However, the expression of interleukin-10, which is known as an anti-inflammatory cytokine, was stimulated in the EPS-administrated group. Based on these results, we conclude that the IJH-SONE68-derived EPS is a promising lead material for the development of drugs useful in treating inflammatory diseases such as UC.

Traditional Bulgarian Dairy Products: Ethnic Foods with Health Benefits

The reported health effects of fermented dairy foods, which are traditionally manufactured in Bulgaria, are connected with their microbial biodiversity. The screening and development of probiotic starters for dairy products with unique properties are based exclusively on the isolation and characterization of lactic acid bacterial (LAB) strains. This study aims to systematically describe the LAB microbial content of artisanal products such as Bulgarian-type yoghurt, white brined cheese, kashkaval, koumiss, kefir, katak, and the Rhodope's brano mliako. The original technologies for their preparation preserve the valuable microbial content and improve their nutritional and probiotic qualities. This review emphasises the features of LAB starters and the autochthonous microflora, the biochemistry of dairy food production, and the approaches for achieving the fortification of the foods with prebiotics, bioactive peptides (ACE2-inhibitors, bacteriocins, cyclic peptides with antimicrobial activity), immunomodulatory exopolysaccharides, and other metabolites (indol-3-propionic acid, free amino acids, antioxidants, prebiotics) with reported beneficial effects on human health. The link between the microbial content of dairy foods and the healthy human microbiome is highlighted.

Anti-Influenza virus effects of Enterococcus faecalis KH2 and Lactobacillus plantarum SNK12 RNA

Bacterial RNA has recently emerged as an immune-stimulating factor during viral infection. The immune response in an organism is directly related to the progression of virus infections. Lactic acid bacteria in particular have anticancer, bioprotective, and antiallergic effects by modulating immunity. Here, we aimed to demonstrate the effect of bacterial RNA on in vitro production of IL-12, a proinflammatory cytokine, and on in vivo activity against influenza A virus (IFV) infection. Oral administration of heat-killed Enterococcus faecalis KH2 (KH2) or Lactobacillus plantarum SNK12 (SNK) in IFV-infected mice suppressed viral replication and stimulated production of virus-specific antibodies. However, ribonuclease-treated KH2 or SNK abrogated the effect, reducing IL-12 production in vitro and anti-IFV effects in vivo. Taken together, KH2 or SNK showed antiviral effects in vivo when administered orally, and the RNAs of KH2 and SNK play a part in these effects, despite the phylogenetic differences between the bacteria.

The emerging role of probiotics as a mitigation strategy against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

COVID-19 is an acute respiratory infection accompanied by pneumonia caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which has affected millions of people globally. To date, there are no highly efficient therapies for this infection. Probiotic bacteria can interact with the gut microbiome to strengthen the immune system, enhance immune responses, and induce appropriate immune signaling pathways. Several probiotics have been confirmed to reduce the duration of bacterial or viral infections. Immune fitness may be one of the approaches by which protection against viral infections can be reinforced. In general, prevention is more efficient than therapy in fighting viral infections. Thus, probiotics have emerged as suitable candidates for controlling these infections. During the COVID-19 pandemic, any approach with the capacity to induce mucosal and systemic reactions could potentially be useful. Here, we summarize findings regarding the effectiveness of various probiotics for preventing virus-induced respiratory infectious diseases, especially those that could be employed for COVID-19 patients. However, the benefits of probiotics are strain-specific, and it is necessary to identify the bacterial strains that are scientifically established to be beneficial.

Lactic acid bacterial exopolysaccharides strongly bind histamine and can potentially be used to remove histamine contamination in food

The symptoms of foodborne histamine poisoning are similar to those of IgE-mediated food allergies. In this study, we investigated the histamine-binding capacity of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains as potential preventive agents against histamine poisoning. Histamine biosorption capacity was determined for 16 LAB strains. Leuconostoc mesenteroides TOKAI 51 m, Lactobacillus paracasei TOKAI 65 m, Lactobacillus plantarum TOKAI 111 m and Pediococcus pentosaceus TOKAI 759 m showed especially high biosorption rates and reached saturation within 30 min. Adsorption isotherms showed better conformance to the Freundlich model than to the Langmuir model. Analyses after heat, periodic acid and guanidine hydrochloride treatments suggested that histamine was bound to the bacterial cell surface. HPLC analysis revealed that exopolysaccharides produced by Lact. paracasei TOKAI 65 m strongly bound to histamine. In the detachment test with 1 mol l^-1 HCl solution, the dissociation rate of histamine for Lact. paracasei TOKAI 65 m was <10 %. This strain is presumably a suitable candidate for use against histamine poisoning.

Cell-Free Lactobacillus sp Supernatants Modulate Staphylococcus aureus Growth, Adhesion and Invasion to Human Osteoblast (HOB) Cells

The increase of antibiotic resistance has become a problem. Probiotic bacteria play an important role in preventive/supportive medicine. Therefore, we examined the inhibitory effects of four different Lactobacillus species' (L. acidophilus-La, L. plantarum-Lp, L. fermentum-Lf and L. rhamnosus-Lr) cell-free supernatants (CFSs) on growth, adhesion, invasion, and biofilm formation of Staphylococcus aureus and effects of S. aureus, CFSs, and S. aureus-CFSs co-existence on human osteoblast (HOB) cell viability. Growth alterations were measured spectrophotometrically. Adhesive/invasive bacterial counts were detected by colony counting. Biofilm was evaluated using microtiter plate assay. The MTT assay was used for detection of HOB cell viability. The growth of MSSA significantly (P < 0.01) decreased in the presence of two CFSs (Lf and Lr) (P < 0.01); the growth of MRSA significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in the presence of La CFSs. All tested CFSs were found to reduce adhesion and invasion of MSSA (P < 0.0001). The adhesion of MRSA was enhanced (P < 0.0001) in the presence of all CFSs except La and the invasion of MRSA was decreased (P < 0.01) in the presence of Lr and Lf CFSs. All tested CFSs were shown to inhibit biofilm formation significantly (P < 0.0001). The reduction of S. aureus infected HOB cell viability and exposed to all CFSs except Lr that was found to be significant (P < 0.0001). The viability of HOB cell during co-incubation with MSSA and CFSs was shown to be decreased significantly. However co-existence of MRSA and CFSs did not alter HOB cell viability. These results suggested that lactobacilli as probiotics have low protective effects on MRSA-infected host cells.

Exopolysaccharides From Streptococcus thermophilus ST538 Modulate the Antiviral Innate Immune Response in Porcine Intestinal Epitheliocytes

It was reported that exopolysaccharides (EPSs) from lactobacilli are able to differentially modulate mucosal antiviral immunity. Although research has described the ability of EPSs derived from Streptococcus thermophilus to modulate the mucosal immune system, their impact on antiviral immunity was less explored. In this work, we investigated the capacity of the EPS-producing S. thermophilus ST538 to modulate the innate antiviral immune response triggered by the activation of the Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) in porcine intestinal epitheliocytes (PIE cells). Moreover, in order to study the immunomodulatory potential of S. thermophilus ST538 EPS, we successfully developed two mutant strains through the knockout of the epsB or epsC genes. High-performance liquid chromatography and scanning electron microscopy studies demonstrated that the wild type (WT) strain produced as high as 595 μg/ml of EPS in the skim milk medium, while none of the mutant strains (S. thermophilus ΔepsB and ΔepsC) were able to produce EPS. Studies in PIE cells demonstrated that the EPS of S. thermophilus ST538 is able to significantly improve the expression of interferon β (IFN-β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and C-X-C motif chemokine 10 (CXCL10) in response to TLR3 stimulation. The role of EPS in the modulation of antiviral immune response in PIE cells was confirmed by comparative studies of cell free culture supernatants and fermented skim milks obtained from S. thermophilus ΔepsB and ΔepsC. These results suggest that S. thermophilus ST538 could be used as an immunobiotic strain for the development of new immunologically functional foods, which might contribute to improve resistance against viral infections.

Potential Health-Promoting Benefits of Paraprobiotics, Inactivated Probiotic Cells

Viability plays an important role in the beneficial microbes (probiotics) to produce health benefits. However, this idea has been changed after the invention of the term "paraprobiotics," indicating that non-viable microbes could produce health benefits similar to those produced by live probiotics. Occasionally, it might be dangerous to administer live probiotics to people with weak immunity. In such cases, ingestion of paraprobiotics could be a potential alternative. The definition of paraprobiotics refers to the use of inactivated (non-viable) microbial cells or cell fractions to provide health benefits to the consumer. Paraprobiotics have attracted much attention because of their long shelf life, safety, and beneficial effects, such as modulation of immunity, modification of biological responses, reduction of cholesterol, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative properties. These features indicate that paraprobiotics may play a vital role in improving the health of the consumer by enhancing particular physiological functions, even though the exact underlying mechanisms have not yet been completely elucidated. In this mini-review, we briefly discuss the historical backgrounds of paraprobiotics and evidence of their health-promoting effects, prophylactic, and therapeutic properties.

Effect of water-extractive components from funazushi, a fermented crucian carp, on the activity of fibrinolytic factors

BACKGROUND

Japanese fermented foods, including funazushi, have have been studied insufficiently. Related research into fermented products has led to the hope that they might have positive effects on blood circulation, including anti-thrombosis effects. The possible antithrombotic effects of funazushi on the fibrinolytic system were examined.

RESULTS

The administration of extracts from funazushi increased the activity of plasmin and tissue plasminogen activators in the fibrinolytic system but decreased the activity of plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 (PAI-1). This decrease was positively correlated with the decreased plasma triglyceride levels. Funazushi extract directly inhibited PAI-1 activity in vitro despite alimentary enzyme digestion, although direct PAI-1 inhibition was not observed in an extract from salted crucian carp.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that funazushi extracts are closely involved in the antithrombotic effects of the fibrinolytic system, and that they exert their effect through a reduction in PAI-1 activity. The findings also indicate that fermentation processing is necessary to achieve the antithrombotic effects of funazushi. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of ingesting yogurt fermented with Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 on influenza virus-bound salivary IgA in elderly residents of nursing homes: a randomized controlled trial

Objective: The purpose of this study was to clarify the influence of consuming yogurt fermented with Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 (1073R-1-yogurt) on influenza virus-bound salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels, in the elderly residents of nursing homes. Methods: A double-blind, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial was conducted with 96 elderly volunteers residing in 2 nursing homes. During the trial, participants consumed 100 g of 1073R-1-yogurt every morning for 12 weeks, whereas the control participants consumed yogurt fermented with a different Lactobacillus strain (control yogurt). Saliva was collected before the trial and after 4, 8 and 12 weeks of yogurt ingestion. Results: Our data indicated that consumption of 1073R-1-yogurt affected influenza A virus subtype H3N2-bound IgA levels in saliva (p = .001). In addition, saliva flow rate and total IgA levels increased in response to the yogurt intake period in both the 1073R-1 and control yogurt groups (p = .04). Conclusions: Our study suggests that continuous daily ingestion of 1073R-1-yogurt may help prevent infection with influenza A virus subtype H3N2 in elderly subjects with weakened immunity, by increasing the production of influenza A virus subtype of H3N2-bound salivary IgA.

Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 feeding enhances humoral immune responses, which are suppressed by the antiviral neuraminidase inhibitor oseltamivir in influenza A virus-infected mice

Antiviral neuraminidase inhibitors, such as oseltamivir, zanamivir, and peramivir, are widely used for treatment of influenza virus infection. We reported previously that oseltamivir inhibits the viral growth cycle, ameliorates symptoms, and reduces viral antigen quantities. Suppressed viral antigen production, however, induces a reduction of acquired antiviral humoral immunity, and increases the incidence of re-infection rate in the following year. To achieve effective treatment of influenza virus infection, it is necessary to overcome these adverse effects of antiviral neuraminidase inhibitors. Feeding of yogurt fermented with Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus (L. bulgaricus) OLL1073R-1 is reported to have immune-stimulatory effects on influenza virus infection in mice and humans. In the present study, we assessed the effect of feeding L. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 yogurt cultures (YC) on local and systemic humoral immune responses, which were suppressed by oseltamivir treatment, in mice infected with influenza A virus. Yogurt culture (1.14 × 10⁸ cfu/0.4 mL per mouse per day) or sterile water (vehicle) was administered by intragastric gavage for 35 d. At d 22, influenza A virus/Puerto Rico/8/34 (H1N1) (PR8; 0.5 pfu/15 μL per mouse) was instilled intranasally, followed immediately by oral administration of oseltamivir (50 μg/100 μL per mouse, twice daily) or 5% methylcellulose (100 μL/mouse) as a vehicle for 13 d. Titers of anti-PR8-specific IgG and IgA in serum and mucosal secretory IgA (S-IgA) and IgG in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were analyzed by ELISA at 14 d after infection. Oseltamivir significantly suppressed the induction of anti-PR8-specific IgG and IgA in serum and S-IgA and IgG in BALF after infection. Feeding YC mildly but significantly stimulated production of PR8-specific IgA in serum, S-IgA in BALF, and IgG in serum without changing the IgG_2a:IgG₁ ratio. We analyzed the neutralizing activities against PR8 in serum and BALF and found that oseltamivir also reduced protective immunity, and YC feeding abrogated this effect. The immune-stimulatory tendency of YC on anti-PR8-specific IgA and IgG titers in serum and BALF was also detected in mice re-infected with PR8, but the effect was insignificant, unlike the effect of YC in the initial infection.

Characterization of genomic DNA of lactic acid bacteria for activation of plasmacytoid dendritic cells

Background

Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma (LC-Plasma) possesses strong stimulatory activity for plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) via the TLR9-Myd88 pathway. To reveal the effective lactic acid bacteria (LAB) genome structure for pDCs stimulatory activity, we performed in vitro screening, using randomly selected 200 bp DNA fragments from the LC-Plasma genome.

Results

We found that the CpG motif copy number in the fragments was positively and significantly correlated with pDCs stimulatory activity (R = 0.491, p < 0.01). However, the determination coefficient (R²) was 0.24, which means other factors affecte activity. We found that the G + C contents of the fragment showed a significant negative correlation with activity (R = − 0.474, p < 0.01). The correlation between pDCs stimulatory activity and the copy number of CpG motifs was greatly increased when DNA fragments were stratified by G + C contents.

We also performed bioinformatics analysis and a screening of LAB strains with high pDCs stimulatory activity. Species with a high copy number of CpG motifs in the low-G + C region of their genomes had higher probability of inducing high-pDCs stimulatory activity. L. lactis subsp. lactis, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, and Pediococcus pentosaceus were three typical examples of LAB that had high pDCs stimulatory activity.

Conclusions

Our data suggested that the G + C content of DNA is one of the critical factors for pDCs stimulatory activity by DNA fragments. Furthermore, we found that the copy number in the low-G + C regions strongly affected the pDCs stimulatory activity of whole cells of LAB strains. These results should be useful for the design of new DNA fragments containing CpG motifs. This study also demonstrated an in silico screening method for identifying bacterial species that are able to activate pDCs.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12866-019-1458-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Antioxidant capacity of soymilk yogurt and exopolysaccharides produced by lactic acid bacteria

Reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hydroxyl and superoxide anion radicals, are highly reactive molecules derived from the metabolism of oxygen. ROS play positive roles in cell physiology, but they may also damage cell membranes and DNA, inducing oxidation that causes membrane lipid peroxidation and decreases membrane fluidity. Soymilk yogurt, which is soymilk fermented using lactic acid bacteria (LAB), is an excellent food item with numerous functional substances with antioxidant effects. In this study, the antioxidative activities of soymilk yogurt were investigated. Sixteen of the 26 tested LAB strains solidified soymilk. In antioxidant capacity tests for bacterial cells, Leuconostoc mesenteroides MYU 60 and Pediococcus pentosaceus MYU 759 showed the highest values in the oxygen radical antioxidant capacity (ORAC) and hydroxyl radical antioxidant capacity (HORAC) tests, respectively. The supernatant of soymilk yogurt made with Lactobacillus gasseri MYU 1 showed the highest ORAC and HORAC values. L. mesenteroides MYU 60, Lactobacillus plantarum MYU 74, Lactobacillus reuteri MYU 220, and P. pentosaceus MYU 759 showed significantly high N-acetylcysteine equivalent values compared with the control in a total ROS reducing assay (p<0.05). These strains were selected, and a comet assay was performed, which exhibited decreased values in all selected strains compared with the control, indicating DNA protection. An acidic exopolysaccharide produced by P. pentosaceus MYU 759 showed high antioxidant capacity. The antioxidant substances produced by LAB fermentation may be exopolysaccharides, antioxidant peptides, and isoflavone aglycones. Soymilk yogurt can be used as a functional food useful for various diseases related to oxidation.

Lactobacillus paracasei PS23 reduced early-life stress abnormalities in maternal separation mouse model

Maternal separation (MS) has been developed as a model for inducing stress and depression in studies using rodents. The concept of the gut-brain axis suggests that gut health is essential for brain health. Here, we present the effects of administration of a probiotic, Lactobacillus paracasei PS23 (PS23), to MS mice against psychological traits including anxiety and depression. The administration of live and heat-killed PS23 cells showed positive behavioural effects on MS animals, where exploratory tendencies and mobility were increased in behavioural tests, indicating reduced anxiety and depression compared to the negative control mice (P<0.05). Mice administered with both live and heat-killed PS23 cells also showed lower serum corticosterone levels accompanied by higher serum anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 (IL-10) levels, compared to MS separated mice (P<0.05), indicating a stress-elicited response affiliated with increased immunomodulatory properties. Assessment of neurotransmitters in the brain hippocampal region revealed that PS23 affected the concentrations of dopaminergic metabolites differently than the control, suggesting that PS23 may have improved MS-induced stress levels via neurotransmitter pathways, such as dopamine or other mechanisms not addressed in the current study. Our study illustrates the potential of a probiotic in reversing abnormalities induced by early life stress and could be an alternative for brain health along the gut-brain axis.

The effects of OLL1073R-1 yogurt intake on influenza incidence and immunological markers among women healthcare workers: a randomized controlled trial

This randomized controlled trial did not show the effects of OLL1073R-1 yogurt intake on influenza prevention and NK cell activity enhancement. However, a significant increase in IFN-γ production was demonstrated.

Effects of chocolate containing Leuconostoc mesenteroides strain NTM048 on immune function: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Background

Previous reports showed that oral administration of Leuconostoc mesenteroides strain NTM048 increases IgA levels and CD4+ T cell population in feces and mice, respectively, as revealed by flow cytometric analysis of splenocytes. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of chocolate supplemented with L. mesenteroides strain NTM048 (> 1.00 × 10⁹ CFU/day, NTM048) on the immune parameters of healthy subjects, using a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded study design.

Methods

Participants (mean age: 46.3 years) ingested 28 g of test food daily, at a time of their own choice, for 4 weeks. The immunological parameters of all participants were evaluated two times (pre- and post- ingestion). At the end of the study, various immunological parameters of the participants were measured and scoring of immunological vigor (SIV) was performed using a comprehensive algorithm.

Results

Ingestion of NTM048-supplemented chocolate significantly improved SIV in the NTM048 group (18.6 ± 1.6) compared to that in the placebo group (17.8 ± 2.0) after 4 weeks (p = 0.049). Several immunological parameters (CD8⁺T cells, CD8⁺CD28⁺ T cells, and memory T cells) were significantly elevated in the NTM048 group as compared to the placebo group (all p < 0.05). In addition, T cell proliferation index at post-ingestion significantly increased compared with that at pre-ingestion in the NTM048 (p = 0.017) and placebo groups (p = 0.037), although no differences were observed between the two groups.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that ingestion of chocolate supplemented with NTM048 is effective against the age-related decline in T cell-related immune functions.

Trial registration

UMIN Clinical Trials Registry UMIN000021989. Registered 19 April 2016, https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000025321

Enhancing the natural killer cell activity and anti-influenza effect of heat-treated Lactobacillus plantarum nF1-fortified yogurt in mice

Influenza A virus (IAV) infection is a global public health concern. It causes respiratory diseases ranging from mild illness to fatal disease. Natural killer (NK) cells are an innate immune component that kill infected cells and secrete cytokines to modulate the adaptive immune system; they constitute the first-line defense and play important roles in controlling IAV infection. This study evaluated the effect of daily administration of heat-treated Lactobacillus plantarum nF1-fortified yogurt on immunity and protection against IAV infection. Mice administered with heat-treated L. plantarum nF1-fortified yogurt showed elevated NK cell-related cytokine expression levels. Daily administration of the L. plantarum nF1-fortified yogurt before IAV infection also enhanced splenic NK activity, lung inflammatory cytokine responses, and survival rate. Thus, daily administration of nF1-fortified yogurt enhances host immunity and helps prevent IAV infection.

Influence of Probiotic Culture Supernatants on In Vitro Biofilm Formation of Staphylococci

Background

The effects of cell-free culture supernatants of probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Streptococcus salivarius K12 on replication and biofilm forming of Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis were assessed in vitro.

Methods

S. aureus and S. epidermidis strains were exposed to cell-free culture supernatants of L. rhamnosus GG and S. salivarius K12 at different concentrations starting at 0, 4, and 24 h after the onset of incubation. Bacterial amplification was measured on microplate readers, as well as biofilm growth after safranine staining. Scanning electron microscopy was performed for visualization of biofilm status.

Results

The S. salivarius K12 culture supernatant not only reduced or prevented the formation and maturation of fresh biofilms but even caused a reduction of preformed S. epidermidis biofilms. The L. rhamnosus GG culture supernatant did not show clear inhibitory effects regardless of concentration or time of addition of supernatant, and even concentration-depending promotional effects on the planktonic and biofilm growth of S. aureus and S. epidermidis were observed.

Conclusion

In particular, the inhibitory effects of the S. salivarius K12 culture supernatant on the formation of staphylococcal biofilms are of potential relevance for biofilm-associated diseases and should be further assessed by in vivo infection models.

Anti-Fatigue Effects of Yogurt Fermented with Lactobacillus delbureckii subsp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 in Healthy People Suffering from Summer Heat Fatigue: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Fatigue caused by summer heat is a typical indefinite complaint along with anorexia, loss of sleep, stress, lack of motivation and, in some cases, catching a cold. Yogurt fermented with Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 has been shown to stimulate the immune system and reduce the risk of catching colds. Here, we conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial to investigate whether ingesting this yogurt could ameliorate summer heat fatigue in 49 healthy males (median age 40.0 ± 6.0 years; 30⁻49 years) who felt fatigued every summer. Fatigue was evaluated by visual analogue scales (VAS) and the balance of sympathetic/parasympathetic nervous systems. After 12 weeks of ingestion in early autumn, the VAS fatigue scores in the yogurt group were lower than those of the placebo group. These results indicate that yogurt fermented with L. bulgaricus OLL1073R-1 can ameliorate summer heat fatigue lasting up to early autumn.

New lactic acid bacteria for skin health via oral intake of heat-killed or live cells

Lactic acid bacteria play an essential role in the food industry in the manufacture of many fermented products (cheese, yogurt, fermented vegetables, etc.). Application of these organisms is now being extended to the area of health improvement, as their probiotic activities become known. Probiotics are defined as viable microorganisms that exert a beneficial effect on the health of the host when they are ingested in sufficient quantity. Lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria isolated from the human intestine are the most common probiotics used for human consumption. The development of new probiotics with new beneficial effects is eagerly awaited in the food industry. This review introduces Lactococcus, which are one of the genera of lactic acid bacteria and are mainly isolated from dairy products and fermented vegetables, as new probiotics, focusing especially on Lactococcus lactis H61, which improves skin status in Japanese women with oral intake of heat‐killed or live cells. The deduced mechanisms associated with the beneficial effects of strain H61 are also discussed.

Exopolysaccharides from Lactobacillus delbrueckii OLL1073R-1 modulate innate antiviral immune response in porcine intestinal epithelial cells

Previous studies demonstrated that the extracellular polysaccharides (EPSs) produced by Lactobacillus delbrueckii OLL1073R-1 (LDR-1) improve antiviral immunity, especially in the systemic and respiratory compartments. However, it was not studied before whether those EPSs are able to beneficially modulate intestinal antiviral immunity. In addition, LDR-1-host interaction has been evaluated mainly with immune cells while its interaction with intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) was not addressed before. In this work, we investigated the capacity of EPSs from LDR-1 to modulate the response of porcine IECs (PIE cells) to the stimulation with the Toll-like receptor (TLR)-3 agonist poly(I:C) and the role of TLR2, TLR4, and TLR negative regulators in the immunoregulatory effect. We showed that innate immune response triggered by TLR3 activation in porcine IECs was differentially modulated by EPS from LDR-1. EPSs treatment induced an increment in the expression of interferon (IFN)-α and IFN-β in PIE cells after the stimulation with poly(I:C) as well as the expression of the antiviral factors MxA and RNase L. Those effects were related to the reduced expression of A20 in EPS-treated PIE cells. EPS from LDR-1 was also able to reduce the expression of IL-6 and proinflammatory chemokines. Although further in vivo studies are needed, our results suggest that these EPSs or a yogurt fermented with LDR-1 have potential to improve intestinal innate antiviral response and protect against intestinal viruses.

Consumption of Dairy Yogurt Containing Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei, Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis and Heat-Treated Lactobacillus plantarum Improves Immune Function Including Natural Killer Cell Activity

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of consuming dairy yogurt containing Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei (L. paracasei), Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis (B. lactis) and heat-treated Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) on immune function. A randomized, open-label, placebo-controlled study was conducted on 200 nondiabetic subjects. Over a twelve-week period, the test group consumed dairy yogurt containing probiotics each day, whereas the placebo group consumed milk. Natural killer (NK) cell activity, interleukin (IL)-12 and immunoglobulin (Ig) G1 levels were significantly increased in the test group at twelve weeks compared to baseline. Additionally, the test group had significantly greater increases in serum NK cell activity and interferon (IFN)-γ and IgG1 than placebo group. Daily consumption of dairy yogurt containing L. paracasei, B. lactis and heat-treated L. plantarum could be an effective option to improve immune function by enhancing NK cell function and IFN-γ concentration (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03051425).