Data from a recent study published in the August 1, 2008, issue of Public Library of Science (PLoS) Pathogens demonstrated the anti-inflammatory and pathogen protection benefits of Bifidobacterium infantis 35624, a probiotic bacterial strain of human origin. Gastrointestinal benefits of probiotics have been well-documented, but new research is revealing that probiotic benefits extend to the entire body.
“Inflammation is a major factor in a number of chronic diseases affecting millions of people and can cause an unwanted impact on healthy tissue,” said Dr. Liam O’Mahony, lead investigator. “Past research has shown that the probiotic Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 can positively impact the body’s immune defense, and this most recent data suggests that its benefits are not restricted to the gastrointestinal tract.”
The study examined the effect of Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 on immunity to Salmonella typhimurium. The probiotic strain was administered to mice at least three weeks prior to salmonella infection. Animals that received Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 showed dramatically increased numbers of certain immune cells that control the immune system response to harmful pathogens.
Commensal-Induced Regulatory T Cells Mediate Protection against Pathogen-Stimulated NF-κB Activation
Source: Newswise
