Do probiotics have a therapeutic role in gastroenterology

Abstract

Several hundred species of bacteria inhabit the gut, and affect its cell biology, morphology and homeostasis. Many bacteria are however potential pathogens, especially if the integrity of the epithelial barrier is physically or functionally breached. Conversely, the interaction between host and commensal microbes can confer important health benefits. This has led to commercial and public interest in "probiotics", live microbes principally taken as food supplements. Might probiotics also be used in disease therapy? Experimental evidence that probiotics modulate gut physiology, particularly barrier integrity and immunological function, underpins exciting new gastroenterological research. We discuss below the scientific basis for probiotic effects and present a critical perspective for their use in relation to gastrointestinal disease.

Probiotic intervention has strain-specific anti-inflammatory effects in healthy adults

“…The immunomodulatory effects of probiotics have mostly been studied in certain disease conditions, such as allergies [2] and inflammatory diseases [3,4] , though the general, healthy population mostly consumes probiotics. The immunomodulatory effects of probiotics in healthy populations have not been fully established and only a few randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled studies have addressed this question [5][6][7][8][9] .…”

The role of probiotics and natural bioactive compounds in modulation of the common molecular pathways in pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and cancer

“…The probiotics in such a way suppress the growth of bacteria, which convert pro-carcinogens into carcinogens. Besides that, the lactic acid bacteria have a lower activity of enzymes metabolizing xenobiotics as enterobacteria, clostridia, bacteroides and other commensal bacteria and beneficial modulation of the intestinal microflora could decrease the colorectal cancer risk (Limdi et al 2006;Rafter et al 2007).…”

Bugs and Guts

“…Probiotics are live microbial food supplements that may have beneficial effects on gastrointestinal (GI) health (Limdi, O'Neill, & McLaughlin, 2006). The term probiotic was first used 50 years ago, but the health benefits of bacteria have been recognized for centuries.…”

“…Over time, the microflora change, and by adulthood more than 500 species of bacteria inhabit the gut (Limdi et al, 2006). From the moment of birth, bacteria begin to colonize in the GI tract, establishing a dynamic and complex symbiotic relationship.…”