Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026
06:38
A Novel Method for the Culture and Polarized Stimulation of Human Intestinal Mucosa Explants
Published on: May 1, 2013
Distinct Bifidobacterium strains drive different immune responses in vitro
Patricia López1, Miguel Gueimonde, Abelardo Margolles
1Department of Functional Biology, Immunology Area, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain.
International Journal of Food Microbiology
|January 15, 2010
Summary
This study reveals that Bifidobacterium strains have unique immune-activating properties. Certain Bifidobacterium bifidum strains may promote Th17 immune responses, offering potential for novel probiotic applications.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Bifidobacterium are key intestinal microorganisms with known health benefits.
- Understanding their immunomodulatory effects is crucial for probiotic development.
- Specific strains may elicit distinct immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the immune activation properties of different Bifidobacterium strains.
- To assess their impact on human dendritic cell (DC) maturation and cytokine secretion.
- To analyze peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) proliferation and cytokine profiles.
Main Methods:
- In vitro analysis of 12 Bifidobacterium strains from 4 species.
- Assessment of DC maturation markers and cytokine production (IL-12, IL-10, TNF-alpha, IL-1beta).
- Measurement of PBMC proliferation and cytokine expression (IFN-gamma, IL-17).
Main Results:
- All tested Bifidobacterium strains induced full DC maturation.
- Significant strain-specific differences in cytokine production were observed.
- B. animalis and B. longum strains promoted Th1 responses, while some B. bifidum strains induced Th17 responses.
Conclusions:
- Bifidobacterium species and strains exhibit distinct immunomodulatory effects.
- Cytokine profiles can predict the type of T-helper (Th) cell response.
- Specific B. bifidum strains show potential for promoting Th17 polarization in probiotic applications.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:30Development of Human Microbiota
The human microbiota begins developing at birth and undergoes continual change as we age. Infancy marks a critical period of microbial sensitivity, offering a “window of opportunity” during which beneficial microbes help mature the immune system. By age three, children typically develop a more stable and diverse microbial community. Newborns acquire microbes from their immediate environment; vaginal delivery favors maternal vaginal microbes, while cesarean births favor microbes from the skin...
01:24B Cell Activation and Differentiation
The adaptive immune response, a sophisticated defense mechanism, relies on the activation and differentiation of B lymphocytes, or B cells. These processes enable our bodies to mount a tailored response against specific pathogens such as bacteria, free virus particles, toxins, and parasites.
When naive B cells encounter a specific antigen that can bind to the B cell receptor (BCR) on their surface, they undergo sensitization to respond to the antigen's presence. Sensitization begins with...
When naive B cells encounter a specific antigen that can bind to the B cell receptor (BCR) on their surface, they undergo sensitization to respond to the antigen's presence. Sensitization begins with...
01:31Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
The human immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against bacterial infections. It consists of various immune cells, each playing a specific role in the defense mechanism.
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...