The efficacy of probiotics on virus titres and antibody production in virus diseases: A systematic review on recent evidence for COVID-19 treatment

Abstract

Background & Aims There are some studies indicating the effects of probiotic-containing foods or supplements on viral diseases. We aimed to conduct a rapid review of probiotics with specific emphasis on their potential for early administration in patients at greater risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods We searched on PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus and Web of Science up to February 2021 to identify interventional and observational studies documenting the effects of probiotics strains on interleukins, virus titers, and antibody production with a focus on probiotic-containing foods (PROSPERO Registration ID. CRD42020181453). Results From a total of 163 records, 21 studies were classified into three domains based on the efficacy of probiotics on 1) the level of interleukins (n=7), 2) virus titers (n=2), and 3) interferon (IFN) and antibody production (n=12). The suppuration of pro-inflammatory interleukins and type I INF production seemed to be the main anti-viral effect of probiotics. Nine studies also indicated the beneficial effects of probiotics and fermented foods on viral diseases. Conclusion Based on evidence, some probiotic strains may be useful in viral infections; randomized trials are needed to confirm these findings.

Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements for Older Adults with Long COVID-19

“… 138 Probiotics may have also anti-inflammatory, 139 antioxidant, 140 and antiviral properties. 141 Interestingly, an in silico molecular docking approach suggested that metabolites from Lactobacillus plantarum may have potential antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 by targeting helicase nsp13. 142 Probiotics may also have synergistic antiviral activities when combined with compounds with antimicrobial properties.…”

“…Numerous studies are currently testing the use of different mixtures of probiotics as adjunctive treatment for the management of both acute and postacute COVID-19. 141 , 144 , 145 Preliminary evidence suggests that probiotics administration may reduce secondary infections in people with severe COVID-19. 146 The consumption of a specific bacterial formulation containing strains of Streptococcus thermophilus , Lactobacillus acidophilus , Lactobacillus helveticus , Lactobacillus paracasei , L plantarum , Lactobacillus brevis , and Bifidobacterium lactis was associated with remission of gastrointestinal symptoms and reduced risk of respiratory failure in hospitalized patients with COVID-19.…”

Short-chain fatty acids–microbiota crosstalk in the coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

“…A recent systematic review showed that more than twenty probiotic bacteria strains improve the anti-inflammatory interleukins and anti-body production against various viruses, and virus titers were lowered after probiotics supplementation. Probiotic-containing foods and fermented food products also showed effect on prevention and treatment of viral diseases [ 101 ]. Studies have demonstrated that the immune modulation deriving from probiotic bacteria (i.e.…”

Recent advances in antiviral effects of probiotics: potential mechanism study in prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2

“…The most familiar fermented foods, e.g., probiotic milk, yogurt, and honey, also benefit viral diseases. Human milk contains LAB, which protects against rotavirus (Mirashrafi et al 2021 ). Sourdough is the oldest form of slowly fermented leavened bread used as early as 2000 BC by the ancient Egyptians.…”