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Probiotics

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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...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 6, 2026

An In Vitro Batch-culture Model to Estimate the Effects of Interventional Regimens on Human Fecal Microbiota

An In Vitro Batch-culture Model to Estimate the Effects of Interventional Regimens on Human Fecal Microbiota

Published on: July 31, 2019

Probiotics in gastrointestinal disorders.

Eamonn M M Quigley¹

¹Department of Medicine, Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland. e.quigley@ucc.ie

Hospital Practice (1995)

|November 12, 2010

Summary

Probiotics, live beneficial bacteria, are increasingly recognized for their role in gut health and immune function. High-quality studies show probiotics can treat various conditions, including diarrheal illnesses and irritable bowel syndrome.

Area of Science:

Microbiology
Immunology
Gastroenterology

Background:

The enteric flora, or gut microbiota, plays a crucial role in human health and disease.
The gut microbiota communicates with the immune system, particularly the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT).

Purpose of the Study:

To define probiotics based on scientific evidence and their health benefits.
To highlight the therapeutic potential of probiotics in various human diseases.

Main Methods:

Review of high-quality human studies on probiotic efficacy.
Identification of specific disease states benefiting from probiotic intervention.

Main Results:

Probiotics, defined as live organisms conferring a health benefit, are effective in treating certain conditions.

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Novel Production Protocol for Small-scale Manufacture of Probiotic Fermented Foods

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Published on: September 10, 2016

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Last Updated: Jun 6, 2026

An In Vitro Batch-culture Model to Estimate the Effects of Interventional Regimens on Human Fecal Microbiota

An In Vitro Batch-culture Model to Estimate the Effects of Interventional Regimens on Human Fecal Microbiota

Published on: July 31, 2019

Novel Production Protocol for Small-scale Manufacture of Probiotic Fermented Foods

Novel Production Protocol for Small-scale Manufacture of Probiotic Fermented Foods

Published on: September 10, 2016

Proven benefits include management of diarrheal illnesses, inflammatory bowel diseases, infectious disorders, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Conclusions:

Probiotics represent a promising therapeutic avenue for digestive disorders.
Further high-quality clinical trials and mechanistic studies are needed to fully understand probiotic actions.