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Probiotics

Probiotics

Probiotics are live, non-pathogenic microorganisms that confer health benefits by modulating the gut microbiota. The human gastrointestinal tract harbors a complex microbial ecosystem, and the balance of this microbiota is crucial for digestive and systemic health. Among the most extensively studied and utilized probiotics are species formerly classified within the genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These organisms not only naturally colonize the human gut but are also consumed through...

Microbiota Modulation by Antibiotics

Microbiota Modulation by Antibiotics

Antibiotics have revolutionized modern medicine by saving countless lives from bacterial infections. However, their widespread use has inadvertently harmed the delicate balance of the human gut microbiota. The gut microbiota, a complex community of bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi, plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, immune responses, and maintaining intestinal health. Antibiotics, especially broad-spectrum types, disrupt this ecosystem by eradicating both harmful and beneficial...

Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota

Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota

The human gut microbiome includes a diverse array of microbial species, including beneficial commensals and opportunistic pathogens, which interact to support host health. These microbes contribute to essential functions such as nutrient metabolism, immune system modulation, and maintenance of intestinal barrier integrity. However, disruptions to this equilibrium—referred to as dysbiosis—can have widespread physiological consequences.Dysbiosis is often characterized by reduced microbial...

Functions of the Gut Microbiota

Functions of the Gut Microbiota

The gut microbiota includes trillions of microorganisms that colonize the human gastrointestinal tract, including bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi. This complex ecosystem plays a critical role in maintaining intestinal and systemic health. Most of these microbes inhabit the large intestine, establishing a relatively stable and diverse community that contributes to gut homeostasis through various metabolic, immunological, and protective mechanisms.Dominant bacterial phyla, such as...

Microbiota of the Stomach and Small Intestine

Microbiota of the Stomach and Small Intestine

The human gastrointestinal (GI) tract is characterized by distinct physicochemical conditions that shape its microbial communities. Among these, the stomach presents a particularly challenging environment for microbial colonization due to its highly acidic pH, ranging from 1 to 3. This extreme acidity effectively limits microbial density. However, certain acid-tolerant microorganisms are capable of surviving in this niche. Notably, Helicobacter pylori can colonize the gastric mucosa,...

Gut-Brain Axis

Gut-Brain Axis

The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. This interaction is mediated through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, hormonal signals, immune responses, and chemical messengers produced by gut microbes.Microbial Contributions to Brain FunctionGut microbiota contributes significantly to brain function by producing neuroactive compounds. These include neuroactive compounds that influence neurotransmitters such as...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Analyzing Beneficial Effects of Nutritional Supplements on Intestinal Epithelial Barrier Functions During Experimental Colitis

Analyzing Beneficial Effects of Nutritional Supplements on Intestinal Epithelial Barrier Functions During Experimental Colitis

Published on: January 5, 2017

Effect of probiotics on intestinal barrier function.

Rudolf Mennigen¹, Matthias Bruewer

¹Department of General and Visceral Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany.

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences

|June 23, 2009

Summary

Probiotic bacteria show promise in improving intestinal barrier function, a critical factor in gastrointestinal diseases like inflammatory bowel disease and infections. This review examines evidence from lab, animal, and human studies on probiotics

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Last Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Analyzing Beneficial Effects of Nutritional Supplements on Intestinal Epithelial Barrier Functions During Experimental Colitis

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Investigating Intestinal Barrier Breakdown in Living Organoids

Investigating Intestinal Barrier Breakdown in Living Organoids

Published on: March 26, 2020

Area of Science:

Gastroenterology and Microbiology

Background:

Intestinal barrier dysfunction is central to numerous gastrointestinal disorders.
Conditions include inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, infections, and critical illness.

Purpose of the Study:

To review existing data on the impact of probiotics on intestinal barrier function.
To synthesize findings from in vitro, animal, and clinical research.

Main Methods:

Literature review of studies investigating probiotics and intestinal barrier function.
Analysis of data from laboratory experiments, animal models, and human clinical trials.

Main Results:

Probiotic interventions demonstrate a positive effect on intestinal barrier integrity.
Evidence supports the role of probiotics in ameliorating disease states linked to barrier impairment.

Conclusions:

Probiotics represent a potential therapeutic strategy for gastrointestinal diseases characterized by intestinal barrier defects.
Further research can elucidate specific mechanisms and optimize probiotic applications.