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Bifidobacterium microbiota and parameters of immune function in elderly subjects
Arthur C Ouwehand1, Nynke Bergsma, Riikka Parhiala
1Functional Foods Forum, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology
|March 14, 2008
Summary
Probiotic Bifidobacterium longum strains altered gut microbiota in elderly individuals. This modulation correlated with changes in inflammatory cytokines, suggesting a potential to influence immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Gerontology
Background:
- The gut microbiota, particularly Bifidobacterium species, plays a role in host health and immune function.
- Age-related changes in the gut microbiota can impact immune responses and inflammatory status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of specific Bifidobacterium longum probiotic strains on the faecal microbiota composition in institutionalized elderly subjects.
- To examine the relationship between changes in Bifidobacterium species and serum levels of key cytokines (IL-10, TNF-alpha, TGF-beta1).
Main Methods:
- A 6-month double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 55 elderly participants.
- Faecal samples analyzed for Bifidobacterium microbiota using genus and species-specific PCR.
- Serum cytokine levels measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Main Results:
- Probiotic intervention led to specific alterations in Bifidobacterium species composition.
- Negative correlations observed between Bifidobacterium species and pro-inflammatory TNF-alpha and regulatory IL-10.
- Presence of B. longum and B. animalis correlated with reduced serum IL-10; B. breve correlated with increased TGF-beta1.
Conclusions:
- Modulating the faecal Bifidobacterium microbiota through probiotics can influence host inflammatory responses.
- Specific Bifidobacterium species may differentially impact cytokine profiles, offering potential therapeutic avenues.
- Targeting the gut microbiota represents a promising strategy for managing inflammation in the elderly.
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