Characteristics of Probiotic Preparations and Their Applications

Progress in Probiotic Science: Prospects of Functional Probiotic-Based Foods and Beverages

This comprehensive review explores the evolving role of probiotic-based foods and beverages, highlighting their potential as functional and "future foods" that could significantly enhance nutrition, health, and overall well-being. These products are gaining prominence for their benefits in gut health, immune support, and holistic wellness. However, their future success depends on addressing critical safety concerns and navigating administrative complexities. Ensuring that these products "do more good than harm" involves rigorous evaluations of probiotic strains, particularly those sourced from the human gastrointestinal tract. Lactic acid bacteria (LABs) serve as versatile and effective functional starter cultures for the development of probiotic foods and beverages. The review emphasizes the role of LABs as functional starter cultures and the development of precision probiotics in advancing these products. Establishing standardized guidelines and transparent practices is essential, requiring collaboration among regulatory bodies, industry stakeholders, and the scientific community. The review underscores the importance of innovation in developing "friendly bacteria," "super probiotics," precision fermentation, and effective safety assessments. The prospects of functional probiotic-based foods and beverages rely on refining these elements and adapting to emerging scientific advancements. Ultimately, empowering consumers with accurate information, fostering innovation, and maintaining stringent safety standards will shape the future of these products as trusted and beneficial components of a health-conscious society. Probiotic-based foods and beverages, often infused with LABs, a "friendly bacteria," are emerging as "super probiotics" and "future foods" designed to "do more good than harm" for overall health.

Operationalizing Team Science at the Academic Cancer Center Network to Unveil the Structure and Function of the Gut Microbiome

Oncologists increasingly recognize the microbiome as an important facilitator of health as well as a contributor to disease, including, specifically, cancer. Our knowledge of the etiologies, mechanisms, and modulation of microbiome states that ameliorate or promote cancer continues to evolve. The progressive refinement and adoption of "omic" technologies (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) and utilization of advanced computational methods accelerate this evolution. The academic cancer center network, with its immediate access to extensive, multidisciplinary expertise and scientific resources, has the potential to catalyze microbiome research. Here, we review our current understanding of the role of the gut microbiome in cancer prevention, predisposition, and response to therapy. We underscore the promise of operationalizing the academic cancer center network to uncover the structure and function of the gut microbiome; we highlight the unique microbiome-related expert resources available at the City of Hope of Comprehensive Cancer Center as an example of the potential of team science to achieve novel scientific and clinical discovery.

Screening and Whole-Genome Analysis of Probiotic Lactic Acid Bacteria with Potential Antioxidants from Yak Milk and Dairy Products in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

This study aimed to isolate lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with strong antioxidant activity and potential probiotic properties from yak milk and dairy products in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Initial screening of the isolates was performed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay and a hydrogen peroxide tolerance test. Subsequently, the antioxidant capacity of the isolates was assessed through five distinct assays: 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline)-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging ability, superoxide anion radical scavenging ability, hydroxyl radical scavenging ability, a DPPH scavenging assay, and a reducing activity assay. The strains with the stronger antioxidant potential were then further evaluated for their probiotic properties. Whole-genome sequencing was conducted on Lactobacillus plantarum QL01. Among 1205 isolates, 9 strains exhibited potential antioxidant capabilities. Following probiotic property evaluation, QL01 was identified as a safe candidate due to its strong growth, strong adhesion ability, and resilience to acidic, bile, and simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Genome analysis revealed that most of QL01's genes were involved in carbohydrate metabolism. Further examination of antibiotic resistance and virulence factors confirmed its safety, meanwhile genes linked to adhesion and stress responses underscored its probiotic potential. In conclusion, QL01, a strong antioxidant strain, was successfully isolated, and its probiotic potential was confirmed through comprehensive in vitro and genomic analyses.

Functional Significance of Probiotic Bacterial Interactions with Milk Fat Globules in a Human Host

Dairy products often serve as matrices for delivering probiotic bacteria to humans through the diet; however, little is known about the impact of milk fat globules on the growth and survival of probiotic microorganisms. This review discusses current knowledge on the structure and functionality of the milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) and the structural components contributing to the mechanisms of interactions with probiotic bacteria. We analyzed studies published between 2001 and 2025 with reference to earlier foundational research on probiotics and MFGM structure to explore the functional significance of MFGM-probiotic interactions. Recent research indicates that the effects of MFGM interaction with bacteria are species-specific and may influence probiotic activity in the host, including enhancing probiotic viability during intestinal transit and modulating probiotic colonization. In general, research findings suggest that the MFGM holds potential for use as a probiotic carrier to the gut with beneficial health consequences.

Probiotics and Food Bioactives: Unraveling Their Impact on Gut Microbiome, Inflammation, and Metabolic Health

This review paper delves into the role of probiotics and food bioactives in influencing gut health and overall well-being, within the context of probiotics and food bioactives, emphasizing their roles in modulating inflammation, gut microbiota, and metabolic health. Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host, primarily through their impact on the gut microbiome; a complex community of microorganisms crucial for maintaining health. The review aims to elucidate how probiotics, incorporated into both traditional and modern food systems, can enhance gut health and address metabolic disorders. It examines the types of probiotics present in various foods and their mechanisms of action, including their effects on immune function and metabolic health. By exploring the links between probiotics and health outcomes such as digestive health, immune support, and mental health, the review identifies specific conditions where probiotics show significant promise. Hurldes such as inconsistencies in research findings, variability in probiotic strains, and dosages are addressed. The paper also suggests future research directions, including the potential for personalized probiotic interventions. The review concludes by summarizing key findings and emphasizing the critical role of probiotics in food systems for promoting overall health and mitigating metabolic diseases.

Phenotypic and Complete Reference Whole Genome Sequence Analyses of Two Paenibacillus spp. Isolates from a Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) Gastrointestinal Tract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is increasing among mammals around the world, and domestic dogs are no exception. There is no approved cure for canine IBD with limited treatment options. Novel probiotic bacteria discovery from free-ranging animals for the treatment of IBD in domestic pets can likely yield promising probiotic candidates. Consequently, the overall aim was to isolate bacteria from free-ranging animals that could potentially be utilized as novel probiotics. Two bacteria identified as unique Paenibacillus spp. strains by small ribosomal RNA (16S) gene sequencing were isolated from the gastrointestinal tract of a North American Gray Wolf (Canis lupus). The bacteria were typed as Gram-variable, and both were catalase/oxidase positive as well as sensitive to commonly used antibiotics. The bacteria digested complex carbohydrates and lipids by standard assays. The isolated bacteria also inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus luteus. The whole genome sequence (WGS) length of bacterial isolate ClWae17B was 6,939,193 bp, while ClWae19 was 7,032,512 bp, both similar in size to other Paenibacillus spp. The genomes of both bacteria encoded enzymes involved with the metabolism of complex starches and lipids, such as lyases and pectinases, along with encoding antimicrobials such as lanthipeptides, lasso peptides, and cyclic-lactone-autoinducers. No pernicious virulence genes were identified in the WGS of either bacterial isolate. Phylogenetically, the most closely related bacteria based on 16S gene sequences and WGS were P. taichungensis for ClWae17B and P. amylolyticus for ClWae19. WGS analyses and phenotypic assays supported the hypothesis that the isolates described constitute two novel candidate probiotic bacteria for potential use in dogs.

Advances in bio-polymer coatings for probiotic microencapsulation: chitosan and beyond for enhanced stability and controlled release

This review paper analyzes recent advancements in bio-polymer coatings for probiotic microencapsulation, with a particular emphasis on chitosan and its synergistic combinations with other materials. Probiotic microencapsulation is essential for protecting probiotics from environmental stresses, enhancing their stability, and ensuring effective delivery to the gut. The review begins with an overview of probiotic microencapsulation, highlighting its significance in safeguarding probiotics through processing, storage, and gastrointestinal transit. Advances in chitosan-based encapsulation are explored, including the integration of chitosan with other bio-polymers such as alginate, gelatin, and pectin, as well as the application of nanotechnology and innovative encapsulation techniques like spray drying and layer-by-layer assembly. Detailed mechanistic insights are integrated, illustrating how chitosan influences gut microbiota by promoting beneficial bacteria and suppressing pathogens, thus enhancing its role as a prebiotic or synbiotic. Furthermore, the review delves into chitosan's immunomodulatory effects, particularly in the context of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and autoimmune diseases, describing the immune signaling pathways influenced by chitosan and linking gut microbiota changes to improvements in systemic immunity. Recent clinical trials and human studies assessing the efficacy of chitosan-coated probiotics are presented, alongside a discussion of practical applications and a comparison of in vitro and in vivo findings to highlight real-world relevance. The sustainability of chitosan sources and their environmental impact are addressed, along with the novel concept of chitosan's role in the gut-brain axis. Finally, the review emphasizes future research needs, including the development of personalized probiotic therapies and the exploration of novel bio-polymers and encapsulation techniques.

Green technologies for extracting plant waste functional ingredients and new food formulation: A review

Nowadays, there is a growing interest in food waste recovery by both consumers and companies. Food waste of plant origin is a source of bioactive compounds, such as phenolic acids, anthocyanins, flavonoids, phytosterols, carotenoids, and tocopherols, with well-known antioxidant, anti-glycemic, and antimicrobial properties. The use of green and sustainable technologies to recover bioactive compounds from food waste is a possible solution to valorize waste following the principles of green chemistry. Furthermore, today's consumers are more attracted, informed, and aware of the benefits associated with the consumption of functional foods, and with this in mind, the use of extracts rich in beneficial compounds obtained by green technologies from food waste can be a valid alternative to prepare functional foods. In this review, the recovery of polyphenols and fibers with green technologies from food waste for the formulation of functional foods was presented.

Microencapsulation and nanoencapsulation of bacterial probiotics: new frontiers in Alzheimer's disease treatment

Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by cognitive decline, affects millions worldwide. The presence of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain is the key pathological feature, leading to neuronal dysfunction and cell death. Current treatment options include pharmacological approaches such as cholinesterase inhibitors, as well as non-pharmacological strategies like cognitive training and lifestyle modifications. Recently, the potential role of probiotics, particularly strains, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, in managing neurodegenerative diseases through the gut-brain axis has garnered significant attention. Probiotics can modulate inflammation, produce neurotransmitters, and support neuronal health, potentially slowing disease progression and alleviating symptoms, such as stress and anxiety. Optimizing the pharmacotherapeutic effects of probiotics is critical and involves advanced formulation techniques, such as microencapsulation and nanoencapsulation. Microencapsulation employs natural or synthetic polymers to protect probiotic cells, enhancing their viability and stability against environmental stressors. Methods like extrusion, emulsion, and spray-drying are used to create microcapsules suited for various applications. Nanoencapsulation, on the other hand, operates at the nanoscale, utilizing polymeric or lipid-based nanoparticles to improve the bioavailability and shelf life of probiotics. Techniques, such as nanoprecipitation and emulsification, are employed to ensure stable nanocapsule formation, thereby augmenting the therapeutic potential of probiotics as nutraceutical agents. This study delves into the essential formulation aspects of microencapsulation and nanoencapsulation for beneficial probiotic strains, aimed at managing Alzheimer's disease by optimizing the gut-brain axis. The insights gained from these advanced techniques promise to enhance probiotic delivery efficacy, potentially leading to improved health outcomes for patients suffering from neurodegenerative disorders.

A probiotic multi-strain mixture combined with hydroxyectoine improves intestinal barrier function by alleviating inflammation in lipopolysaccharide stimulated differentiated Caco-2 cells

Many studies have highlighted the role of probiotics in re-establishing the gut microbiota balance and preventing intestinal barrier dysfunction. In fact, they can also contribute to the upregulation of anti-inflammatory genes and the downregulation of pro-inflammatory genes, which are known to contribute to the development of the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) syndrome. The present study aims to investigate the effect of the compatible solute hydroxyectoine (HOE), to be used as a cryopreservant but also for its intrinsic biological properties, to obtain a new formula containing three probiotic strains (Limosilactobacillus fermentum (L. fermentum), Levilactobacillus brevis SP-48 (L. brevis), and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 (B. lactis)), and evaluate the latter for its ability to prevent lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in an in vitro bi-dimensional model of the intestinal barrier using a Caco-2 cell monolayer. The mRNA expression levels of the inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α) were analyzed by real-time PCR. Changes in the modulation of (TLR-4 and NF-κB) proteins were assessed by western blotting, and the effect of the HOE/PRO formula on the intestinal epithelial barrier function was also assessed using an immunofluorescence microscope for the tight junction protein zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). This study found that this novel probiotic formulation containing HOE is capable of decreasing LPS-induced cytokines, as confirmed by the results of RT-PCR and ELISA and preserving the integrity of tight junctions as demonstrated by the relevant expression of ZO-1. HOE/PRO was shown to be effective in reducing the expression of TLR-4 and NF-κB. The latter plays a key role as an inflammation modulator as shown through experiments run with the THP-1/NF-κB reporter gene. Collectively, our data indicate that the HOE/PRO formula is a good candidate for potential preventive and/or therapeutic implementation in IBD.

Awareness, knowledge, and beliefs about probiotics and prebiotics among Saudi adults: a cross-sectional study

Background

Probiotics and Prebiotics are essential for supporting both overall health and gastrointestinal health. However, the perception of these dietary components among the general public in Saudi Arabia is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to evaluate public awareness, knowledge, and beliefs regarding prebiotics and probiotics across Saudi Arabia.

Materials and methods

Our cross-sectional study included 1,306 participants aged 18 years and above. Data were collected in Saudi Arabia between May and July 2023 using a self-administered online questionnaire via convenience sampling.

Results

A high level of awareness was self-reported by only 21.9% of participants, whereas more than half (51.8%) of participants rated their level of awareness as low. Overall, 37.5% of participants displayed a high level of knowledge about probiotics and prebiotics, whereas 15.5% had a low level of knowledge. The majority of participants believed in the beneficial effects of probiotics and prebiotics on overall digestion/gut health (84.1%) and supporting the immune system (72.5%). However, less than half of participants believed in their beneficial effects on overweight/obesity (42.3%), stress management (35%), mental health/stress (29.2%), and heart health (28.7%).

Conclusions

The obtained findings indicate sufficient levels of knowledge about prebiotics and probiotics among a population sample of Saudi adults. However, enhanced educational efforts and optimized strategies for promoting a comprehensive awareness and understanding of probiotics and prebiotics are recommended.

Pharmacists' Knowledge, Perception, and Prescribing Practice of Probiotics in the UAE: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

The human body is a complex and interconnected system where trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota, coexist with these cells. Besides maintaining digestive health, this relationship also impacts well-being, including immune function, metabolism, and mental health. As frontline healthcare providers, pharmacists are pivotal in promoting the benefits of probiotics for immune support. This study explored pharmacists' knowledge, perception, and practice behavior in the UAE towards the implication of probiotic application beyond digestive health, such as cardiovascular and mental health impacts and their diverse dosage forms.

METHOD

An online self-administered survey was distributed among pharmacists in the UAE. Data were collected through personal visits to pharmacies, where pharmacists were approached and asked to complete the questionnaire. The sample size included 407 pharmacists, determined using the formula for proportions with a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 29. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic characteristics and survey responses. The knowledge levels were categorized into poor, moderate, and good. Chi-square analysis was employed to investigate associations between demographic factors and knowledge levels, with a significance level set at p < 0.05, enhancing the robustness of the study's findings.

RESULTS

This study included 407 completed eligible responses. About 63.56% of participants were female, with 52.1% employed in pharmacy chains. While 91.2% of pharmacists recognized probiotics' role in immune support, only 30% were aware of their cardiovascular benefits. Moreover, chewing gum was the least known dosage form of probiotics, recognized by only 16.7% of respondents. Additionally, only 57% of the participants recognized liposomes as a dosage form. In practice, most pharmacists recommended storing probiotics at room temperature, accounting for 66.6%. The most prevalent misconception encountered in the pharmacy setting was the belief that probiotics are primarily intended for gastrointestinal tract problems, at 79.1% of the respondents. Regarding perception, the agreement was observed regarding the safety of probiotics for all ages. Perceived barriers included the high cost of probiotics, with the majority (86.5%) indicating this as a significant obstacle, while lack of demand was identified as the minor barrier by 64.6%. Additionally, an association was found at a significance level of p < 0.05 with knowledge, gender, educational level, type and location of pharmacy, and source of information.

CONCLUSIONS

The study highlights knowledge gaps in pharmacists' understanding of probiotic applications beyond digestive health, particularly cardiovascular health and depression. Targeted educational interventions are necessary to address these gaps. The findings underscore the importance of ongoing professional development for pharmacists, enhancing their role in patient education and the promotion of probiotics for overall health.

Environmental Influence on Bacterial Lipid Composition: Insights from Pathogenic and Probiotic Strains

The lipid composition of bacterial membranes is pivotal in regulating bacterial physiology, pathogenicity, and interactions with hosts. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of bacterial membrane lipid profiles across diverse Gram-positive and Gram-negative species. Utilizing matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) in conjunction with advanced chemometric tools, we investigate the influence of environmental factors, isolation sources, and host metabolism on bacterial lipid profiles. Our findings unveil significant variations in lipid composition attributed to factors such as carbon/energy availability and exposure to chemicals, including antibiotics. Moreover, we identify distinct lipidomic signatures associated with pathogenic and probiotic bacterial strains, shedding light on their functional properties and metabolic pathways. Notably, bacterial strains isolated from clinical samples exhibit unique lipid profiles influenced by host metabolic dysregulation, particularly evident in conditions such as diabetic foot infections. These results deepen our understanding of the intricate mechanisms governing bacterial membrane lipid biology and hold promise for informing the development of innovative therapeutic and biotechnological strategies.

Overview of cloning in lactic acid bacteria: Expression and its application of probiotic potential in inflammatory bowel diseases

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) imposes a significant impact on the quality of life for affected individuals. However, there was a current lack of a systematic summary regarding the latest epidemic trends and the underlying pathogenesis of IBD. This highlights the need for a thorough examination of both the epidemiological aspects of IBD and the specific mechanisms by which lactic acid bacteria (LAB) contribute to mitigating this condition. In developed countries, higher incidences and death rates of IBD have been observed, influenced by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. LAB offer significant advantages and substantial potential for enhancing IBD treatment. LAB's capabilities include the production of bioactive metabolites, regulation of gut immunity, protection of intestinal mechanical barriers, inhibition of oxidative damage, and restoration of imbalanced gut microbiota. The review suggests that screening effective LAB using cell models and metabolites, optimizing LAB intake through dose-effect studies, enhancing utilization through nanoencapsulation and microencapsulation, investigating mechanisms to deepen the understanding of LAB, and refining clinical study designs. These efforts aim to contribute to comprehending the epidemic trend, pathogenesis, and treatment of IBD, ultimately fostering the development of targeted therapeutic products, such as LAB-based interventions.

Investigation of Freezing and Freeze-Drying for Preserving and Re-Using a Whole Microbial Cheese Community

Preserving microbial ecosystems obtained from traditional cheese-making processes is crucial to safeguarding the biodiversity of microbial cheese communities and thus ensuring that the high flavor quality of traditional cheeses is maintained. Few protocols have been proposed for the long-term storage of microbial consortia. This work aimed to develop preservation methods to stabilize the entire microbial community in smear-ripened cheese without multiplication or isolation. A simplified microbial community, capable of reproducing the metabolic pattern of cheese maturation, was used in three independent cheese productions. Cheese samples were taken before and after the ripening step, mixed with maltodextrin or saline solution, and subjected to different stabilization conditions including freezing and freeze-drying, followed by 1 month of storage. Microbial survival was quantified using the colony-forming unit assay. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to relate the physical events occurring within the samples to the microbial storage stability. Freezing at -80 °C resulted in the lowest loss of culturability (<0.8 log unit), followed by freezing at -20 °C and freeze-drying. The ripening bacteria appeared as the most sensitive microorganisms within the community. Moreover, a successful cheese production using the best-stabilized community showed the possibility of preserving and re-using an entire microbial community of interest.

Encapsulation of Probiotics within Double/Multiple Layer Beads/Carriers: A Concise Review

An increased demand for natural products nowadays most specifically probiotics (PROs) is evident since it comes in conjunction with beneficial health effects for consumers. In this regard, it is well known that encapsulation could positively affect the PROs' viability throughout food manufacturing and long-term storage. This paper aims to analyze and review various double/multilayer strategies for encapsulation of PROs. Double-layer encapsulation of PROs by electrohydrodynamic atomization or electrospraying technology has been reported along with layer-by-layer assembly and water-in-oil-in-water (W1/O/W2) double emulsions to produce multilayer PROs-loaded carriers. Finally, their applications in food products are presented. The resistance and viability of loaded PROs to mechanical damage, during gastrointestinal transit and shelf life of these trapping systems, are also described. The PROs encapsulation in double- and multiple-layer coatings combined with other technologies can be examined to increase the opportunities for new functional products with amended functionalities opening a novel horizon in food technology.

A comprehensive review on the utilization of probiotics in aquaculture towards sustainable shrimp farming

Probiotics in shrimp aquaculture have gained considerable attention as a potential solution to enhance production efficiency, disease management, and overall sustainability. Probiotics, beneficial microorganisms, have shown promising effects when administered to shrimp as dietary supplements or water additives. Their inclusion has been linked to improved gut health, nutrient absorption, and disease resistance in shrimp. Probiotics also play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced microbial community within the shrimp pond environment, enhancing water quality and reducing pathogen prevalence. This article briefly summarizes the many ways that probiotics are used in shrimp farming and the advantages that come with them. Despite the promising results, challenges such as strain selection, dosage optimization, and environmental conditions are carefully addressed for successful probiotic integration in shrimp aquaculture. The potential of probiotics as a sustainable and ecologically friendly method of promoting shrimp development and health while advancing environmentally friendly shrimp farming techniques is highlighted in this analysis. Further research is required to fully exploit probiotics' benefits and develop practical guidelines for their effective implementation in shrimp aquaculture.

Evaluating Enterococcus faecium9 N-2 as a probiotic candidate from traditional village white cheese

In this study, various functional and probiotic attributes of the Enterococcus faecium 9 N-2 strain isolated from village-style white cheese were characterized, while also assessing its safety. To achieve this, we conducted an in vitro analysis of several key probiotic properties exhibited by the 9 N-2 strain. Notably, this strain demonstrated robust resilience to low pH, high bile salt concentrations, lysozyme, pepsin, pancreatin, and phenol. Furthermore, this strain displayed exceptional auto-aggregation capabilities and moderate co-aggregation tendencies when interacting with Escherichia coli. The cell-free supernatant derived from strain 9 N-2 exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against the tested pathogens. The strain exhibited resistance to gentamicin, meropenem, and bacitracin, while remaining susceptible to vancomycin and various other antibiotics. Furthermore, it was found that E. faecium 9 N-2 possessed the capacity to produce the phytase enzyme. When all the results of this study are evaluated, it is thought that 9 N-2 strain has superior probiotic properties, and therefore it can be used as probiotic in food, medicine, and animal feed in the future. In addition, further in vivo tests should be performed to fully understand its effects and mechanisms of action and to confirm its safety and probiotic effects. Further research and clinical trials are also needed to identify new strains with potential probiotic properties.

Probiotics and Prebiotics Affecting Mental and Gut Health

The effects of the gut microbiota on mental and intestinal health are an area of great interest. This study aimed to reveal the relationship between the intake of probiotic and prebiotic foods and mental and gut health. Data were obtained using an online survey from young adults (n = 538) enrolled at Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University who agreed to participate in this study in the 2022-2023 academic year. This study included 538 participants, mostly (85.5%) females. Participants who never consumed yogurt had 7.614 times higher Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale scores than those who consumed yogurt daily (p < 0.01). Similarly, the frequency of ayran consumption had a statistically significant effect on Bristol Stool Scale scores (p < 0.05). The ratio of normal defecation to constipation was 68.7% lower in participants who consumed ayran daily, whereas the ratio of diarrhea to constipation was 76.4% lower in participants who never consumed ayran. However, the frequency of prebiotic consumption did not have a significant effect on Bristol Stool Scale scores (p > 0.05). The consumption of probiotic and prebiotic foods exerted a significant effect on GSRS total scores and subfactors of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-42, namely depression, anxiety, and stress.

Exploring public interest in gut microbiome dysbiosis, NAFLD, and probiotics using Google Trends

Scientific interest related to the role of gut microbiome dysbiosis in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has now been established and is constantly growing. Therefore, balancing dysbiosis, through probiotics, would be a potential therapy. In addition to scientific interest, on the other hand, it is important to evaluate the interest in these topics among the population. This study aimed to analyze, temporally and geographically, the public's interest in gut microbiome dysbiosis, NAFLD, and the use of gut probiotics. The most widely used free tool for analyzing online behavior is Google Trends. Using Google Trends data, we have analyzed worldwide volume searches for the terms "gut microbiome", "dysbiosis", "NAFLD" and "gut probiotic" for the period from 1, January 2007 to 31 December 2022. Google's relative search volume (RSV) was collected for all terms and analyzed temporally and geographically. The RSV for the term "gut microbiome" has a growth rate of more than 1400% followed, by "gut probiotics" (829%), NAFLD (795%), and "dysbiosis" (267%) from 2007 to 2012. In Australia and New Zealand, we found the highest RSV score for the term "dysbiosis" and "gut probiotics". Moreover, we found the highest RSV score for the term "NAFLD" in the three countries: South Korea, Singapore, and the Philippines. Google Trends analysis showed that people all over the world are interested in and aware of gut microbiome dysbiosis, NAFLD, and the use of gut probiotics. These data change over time and have a geographical distribution that could reflect the epidemiological worldwide condition of NAFLD and the state of the probiotic market.

Sensory evaluations of a novel iron and zinc-enriched powder for the potential treatment and prevention of iron deficiency in women of reproductive age

Iron deficiency (ID) and ID with anaemia (IDA) are serious global health problems that disproportionately affect women aged 15-49 years. Although food fortification is one of the most effective and sustainable ways to combat nutritional deficiencies, iron remains one of the most difficult micronutrients to fortify, given its tendency to react strongly with food constituents. Therefore, it is important to assess the sensory properties of foods fortified with iron to determine the acceptability and palatability in target populations. We aimed to determine the palatability and acceptability of a novel iron and zinc-enriched powder fortified in tap water by conducting sensory evaluations in 35 women of reproductive age using a 9-point hedonic scale, where participants rated the sensory properties of six samples containing different amounts of the active or placebo powder. We found significant differences between samples reconstituted at 1, 2, and 3 g/L for sensory properties, including overall taste. Participants were found to be more willing to drink the mineral-enriched powder when prepared at the lowest concentration (1 g/L) compared to higher concentrations. Our results provide important insight into the sensory qualities of a novel formulation of an iron and zinc-enriched powder for at-home fortification and indicate consumer acceptability in reproductive-aged women, a key group at risk for ID/IDA. If found to improve iron status, novel treatments like this product will contribute to global efforts to develop safe, acceptable and sustainable interventions for ID and IDA.

Effectiveness of Probiotic Therapy in the Management of PeriodontalDisease in Diabetic Patients: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Probiotics can compete with periodontal pathogens in the formation of dental biofilm, and they are able to modulate local and systemic immune responses. Thus, its use in diabetic patients with periodontal disease (PD) can overcome the limitations of conventional periodontal treatment.

OBJECTIVE

This scoping review aimed to understand the extent and type of evidence in relation to the effects of probiotic therapy on periodontal and glycaemic parameters of diabetic patients with PD.

METHODS

An electronic search was performed in the following databases: Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Virtual Health Library (including LILACS and BBO), PubMed (including Medline), Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The review included clinical trials on patients with type 2 diabetes, diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis, who received probiotic therapy as a single therapy or adjuvant to scaling and root planning, and on whom the analyses of clinical periodontal, immunological, microbiological, or glycaemic parameters were performed.

RESULTS

The electronic search yielded a total of 1165 articles. After removing duplicate titles and performing systematic screening, 6 studies were included in the qualitative summary. Probiotic administration improved clinical periodontal parameters (bleeding on probing and probing depth), oxidative stress markers, and inflammatory cytokines (IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α) in relation to control groups. Experimental groups were also more advantageous in reducing the frequency of periodontopathogenic bacteria. However, the evidence of probiotics in decreasing glycated hemoglobin is still uncertain.

CONCLUSION

Probiotics may provide safe additional benefits to periodontal parameters of patients with type 2 diabetes and periodontal disease.

Low-dose perinatal supplementation with Enterococcus faecalis increases concentrations of short-chain fatty acids in the offspring but does not protect against allergic asthma

Childhood allergic asthma is associated with a dysbiotic gut microbiome in early life, and maternal perinatal treatment with probiotics is a potential way alter the infant microbiome, which may improve asthma outcomes. This study used a mouse model to examine the effect of maternal supplementation with the probiotic Enterococcus faecalis on faecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations and asthma risk in the offspring. Pregnant/lactating mice were treated daily, from gestation day 6 to postnatal day 21, with an oral suspension of 106, 107 or 108 colony-forming units of a live preparation of the probiotic E. faecalis (Symbioflor®1). At weaning, offspring were subjected to an ovalbumin-induced experimental asthma protocol. Faeces were collected from the mothers and offspring at several different time points to determine SCFA concentrations. It was found that maternal supplementation with E. faecalis did not alter litter size, sex ratio or offspring weight, and was associated with an increase in SCFAs in offspring faeces at weaning and after allergy induction. However, allergic offspring from E. faecalis supplemented mothers showed no difference in asthma severity when compared with allergic offspring from control mothers. In conclusion, although maternal perinatal supplementation with low-dose E. faecalis was associated with increased faecal SCFAs in the offspring, it did not protect against offspring asthma. This is may be because SCFA concentrations were not increased to an immunoprotective level. We recommend that future studies concentrate on probiotic supplementation in high-risk cases, for instance, to repair gut dysbiosis resulting from antibiotic use in pregnant mothers or their infants.

Antibiotic Resistance and Probiotics: Knowledge Gaps, Market Overview and Preliminary Screening

Probiotics are among those products, the use of which is increasing, and they are available primarily as food/dietary supplements, as well as in the form of medicines. This study aims to assess the attitudes and practices of health professionals and students of health sciences, give a short overview of the probiotics currently on the market, and conduct a screening of five food supplements and one drug with respect to antibiotic resistance. Nearly half of the respondents in our survey state that probiotics have no side effects, while only 6.3% believe that the use of probiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance. In addition, more than 40% of the participants throw unused probiotics into municipal waste. The market analysis results indicate that probiotic products on the Serbian market have highly variable CFU counts, while the declared health claims cover numerous beneficial health effects, and they are sometimes even registered as medicines. Lactobacilli are frequently present in probiotic supplements, and are sold in pharmacies and online. The experimental results showed that antibiotic resistance is present in different types of lactobacilli in probiotic products. The risk of using probiotics, regardless of their beneficial health effects, should be taken into account in the future. An update to the regulations governing probiotics, including a stipulation for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) testing, should be established, and guidelines for their proper use and disposal put into place.

Biomaterials and Encapsulation Techniques for Probiotics: Current Status and Future Prospects in Biomedical Applications

Probiotics have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their potential advantages in diverse biomedical applications, such as acting as antimicrobial agents, aiding in tissue repair, and treating diseases. These live bacteria must exist in appropriate quantities and precise locations to exert beneficial effects. However, their viability and activity can be significantly impacted by the surrounding tissue, posing a challenge to maintain their stability in the target location for an extended duration. To counter this, researchers have formulated various strategies that enhance the activity and stability of probiotics by encapsulating them within biomaterials. This approach enables site-specific release, overcoming technical impediments encountered during the processing and application of probiotics. A range of materials can be utilized for encapsulating probiotics, and several methods can be employed for this encapsulation process. This article reviews the recent advancements in probiotics encapsulated within biomaterials, examining the materials, methods, and effects of encapsulation. It also provides an overview of the hurdles faced by currently available biomaterial-based probiotic capsules and suggests potential future research directions in this field. Despite the progress achieved to date, numerous challenges persist, such as the necessity for developing efficient, reproducible encapsulation methods that maintain the viability and activity of probiotics. Furthermore, there is a need to design more robust and targeted delivery vehicles.

Potential of jackfruit inner skin fibre for encapsulation of probiotics on their stability against adverse conditions

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of jackfruit inner skin fibre (JS) incorporated with whey protein isolate (WPI) and soybean oil (SO) as a wall material for probiotic encapsulation to improve probiotic stability against freeze-drying and gastrointestinal (GI) tract conditions. Bifidobacterium bifidum TISTR2129, Bifidobacterium breve TISTR2130, and Lactobacillus acidophilus TISTR1338 were studied in terms of SCFA production and the antibiotic-resistant profile and in an antagonistic assay to select suitable strains for preparing a probiotic cocktail, which was then encapsulated. The results revealed that B. breve and L. acidophilus can be used effectively as core materials. JS showed the most influential effect on protecting probiotics from freeze-drying. WPI:SO:JS at a ratio of 3.9:2.4:3.7 was the optimized wall material, which provided an ideal formulation with 83.1 ± 6.1% encapsulation efficiency. This formulation presented > 50% probiotic survival after exposure to gastro-intestinal tract conditions. Up to 77.8 ± 0.1% of the encapsulated probiotics survived after 8 weeks of storage at refrigeration temperature. This study highlights a process and formulation to encapsulate probiotics for use as food supplements that could provide benefits to human health as well as an alternative approach to reduce agricultural waste by increasing the value of jackfruit inner skin.

Featured Prebiotic Agent: The Roles and Mechanisms of Direct and Indirect Prebiotic Activities of Lactoferrin and Its Application in Disease Control

Lactoferrin (LF) is a glycoprotein found in mammalian milk, and lactoferricin is a peptide derived from LF hydrolysate. Both LF and lactoferricin (LFcin) have diverse functions that could benefit mammals. Bovine LF (BLF) and BLFcin exhibit a wide range of antimicrobial activities, but most probiotic strains are relatively resistant to their antibacterial effects. BLF and BLF hydrolysate can promote the growth of specific probiotics depending on the culture conditions, the dose of BLF or BLF-related peptides, and the probiotic strains used. BLF supplementation has been shown to modulate several central molecular pathways or genes in Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG under cold conditions, which may explain the prebiotic roles of BLF. LF alone or in combination with selected probiotics can help control bacterial infections or metabolic disorders, both in animal studies and in human clinical trials. Various LF-expressing probiotics, including those expressing BLF, human LF, or porcine LF, have been developed to facilitate the combination of LFs with specific probiotics. Supplementation with LF-expressing probiotics has positive effects in animal studies. Interestingly, inactivated LF-expressing probiotics significantly improved diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a mouse model. This review highlights the accumulated evidence supporting the use of LF in combination with selected LF-resistant probiotics or LF-expressing probiotics in the field.

Application of Lactobacillus reuteri B1/1 (Limosilactobacillus reuteri) Improves Immunological Profile of the Non-Carcinogenic Porcine-Derived Enterocytes

In our previous studies, Lactobacillus reuteri B1/1, which was renamed Limosilactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri), was able to modulate the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other components of the innate immune response in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we evaluated the effect of Lactobacillus reuteri B1/1 in two concentrations (1 × 10⁷ and 1 × 10⁹ CFU) on the metabolic activity, adherence ability and relative gene expression of pro-inflammatory interleukins (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-18), lumican and olfactomedin 4 produced by non-carcinogenic porcine-derived enterocytes (CLAB). CLAB cells were cultured in a 12-well cell culture plate at a concentration of 4 × 10⁵ cells/well in DMEM medium in a controlled humidified atmosphere for 48 h. A 1 mL volume of each probiotic bacterial suspension was added to the CLAB cells. Plates were incubated for 2 h and 4 h. Our results revealed that L. reuteri B1/1 was able to adhere to CLAB cells in sufficient numbers in both concentrations. In particular, the concentration of 10⁹L. reuteri B1/1 allowed to modulate the gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as to increase the metabolic activity of the cells. In addition, administration of L. reuteri B1/1 in both concentrations significantly stimulated gene expression for both proteins in the CLAB cell line after 4 h of incubation.

Preclinical Potential of Probiotic-Loaded Novel Gelatin-Oil Vaginal Suppositories: Efficacy, Stability, and Safety Studies

The current study describes a suppository base composed of aqueous gelatin solution emulsifying oil globules with probiotic cells dispersed within. The favorable mechanical properties of gelatin to provide a solid gelled structure, and the tendency of its proteins to unravel into long strings that interlace when cooled, lead to a three-dimensional structure that can trap a lot of liquid, which was exploited herein to result in a promising suppository form. The latter maintained incorporated probiotic spores of Bacillus coagulans Unique IS-2 in a viable but non-germinating form, preventing spoilage during storage and imparting protection against the growth of any other contaminating organism (self-preserved formulation). The gelatin-oil-probiotic suppository showed uniformity in weight and probiotic content (23 ± 2.481 × 10⁸ cfu) with favorable swelling (double) followed by erosion and complete dissolution within 6 h of administration, leading to the release of probiotic (within 45 min) from the matrix into simulated vaginal fluid. Microscopic images indicated presence of probiotics and oil globules enmeshed in the gelatin network. High viability (24.3 ± 0.46 × 10⁸), germination upon application and a self-preserving nature were attributed to the optimum water activity (0.593 a_w) of the developed composition. The retention of suppositories, germination of probiotics and their in vivo efficacy and safety in vulvovaginal candidiasis murine model are also reported.

The effect of probiotics on immune responses and their therapeutic application: A new treatment option for multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is known as a chronic inflammatory disease (CID) that affects the central nervous system and leads to nerve demyelination. However, the exact cause of MS is unknown, but immune system regulation and inhibiting the function of inflammatory pathways may have a beneficial effect on controlling and improving the disease. Studies show that probiotics can alter the gut microbiome, thereby improving and affecting the immune system and inflammatory responses in patients with MS. The results show that probiotics have a good effect on the recovery of patients with MS in humans and animals. The present study investigated the effect of probiotics and possible therapeutic mechanisms of probiotics on immune cells and inflammatory cytokines. This review article showed that probiotics could improve immune cells and inflammatory cytokines in patients with MS and can play an effective role in disease management and control.

Extracellular Vesicles of Probiotics: Shedding Light on the Biological Activity and Future Applications

For many decades, the proper functioning of the human body has become a leading scientific topic. In the course of numerous experiments, a striking impact of probiotics on the human body has been documented, including maintaining the physiological balance of endogenous microorganisms, regulating the functioning of the immune system, enhancing the digestive properties of the host, and preventing or alleviating the course of many diseases. Recent research, especially from the last decade, shows that this health-benefiting activity of probiotics is largely conditioned by the production of extracellular vesicles. Although the importance of extracellular vesicles in the virulence of many live-threatening pathogens is widely described in the literature, much less is known with respect to the health-promoting effect of extracellular vesicles secreted by non-pathogenic microorganisms, including probiotics. Based on this, in the current review article, we decided to collect the latest literature data on the health-inducing properties of extracellular vesicles secreted by probiotics. The characteristics of probiotics' extracellular vesicles will be extended by the description of their physicochemical properties and the proteome in connection with the biological activities exhibited by these structures.

Probiotics encapsulated gastroprotective cross-linked microgels: Enhanced viability under stressed conditions with dried apple carrier

In the current study, Lactobacillus acidophilus was encapsulated in sodium alginate and whey protein isolate, with the addition of antacids CaCO3 or Mg(OH)2. The obtained microgels were observed by scanning electron microscopy. Encapsulated and free probiotics were subjected to vitality assay under stressed conditions. Furthermore, dried apple snack was evaluated as a carrier for probiotics for 28 days. A significant (p ≤ .05) effect of antacid with an encapsulating agent was observed under different stressed conditions. During exposure to simulated gastrointestinal conditions, there were observations of 1.24 log CFU and 2.17 log CFU, with corresponding 0.93 log CFU and 2.63 log CFU decrease in the case of SA + CaCO3 and WPI + CaCO3 respectively. Likewise, high viability was observed under thermal and refrigerated conditions for probiotics encapsulated with SA + CaCO3. In conclusion, the results indicated that alginate microgels with CaCO3 are effective in prolonging the viability of probiotics under stressed conditions.