Efficacy of a Probiotic and Herbal Supplement in Models of Lung Inflammation

Abstract

Background Gut microbiome dysbiosis is associated with lung disease through the gut-lung axis. Abundant proteobacteria increase MMP-9 and contribute to tissue proteolysis followed by neutrophil recruitment, lung tissue injury, and perpetuation of chronic lung disease. We sought to determine if a scientifically formulated probiotic and herbal supplement could attenuate neutrophilic inflammation and improve lung structure and function in models of lung inflammation. Methods For in vitro experiments, epithelial cells exposed to proteobacteria were treated with resB – a blend of three probiotic Lactobacillus strains and turmeric, holy basil, and vasaka herbal extracts. For in vivo experimentation, mice exposed to pulmonary proteobacteria-derived lipopolysaccharide were treated by gavage with resB. Results In vitro, the bacterial and herbal components of resB decreased activity of the MMP-9 pathway. Mice exposed to LPS and pre- and post-treated with resB had decreased neutrophil recruitment and inflammatory biomarkers in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, serum, and lung tissue compared to untreated mice. Conclusions This study describes the mechanisms and efficacy of probiotic and herbal blend in pre-clinical models of lung injury and inflammation.

Clinical Trial of a Probiotic and Herbal Supplement for Lung and Gut Health

“…Herbal extracts of holy basil leaf, turmeric root, and vasaka leaf can be taken orally to support antioxidant, antitussive, anti-inflammatory, and bronchodilatory effects in the lungs and systemically (14)(15)(16). A blend of live Lactobacillus strains with holy basil, turmeric, and vasaka extracts, decreased matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) pathway activity, neutrophil recruitment, and pro-inflammatory biomarkers (17) in preclinical models of lung inflammation.…”