Probiotics and Disease: A Comprehensive Summary-Part 4, Infectious Diseases

This article series provides a literature review of the disease-specific probiotic strains studied in published clinical trials in humans and animals. The goal of the series is to provide clinically useful tools. The table design allows for quick access to supportive data and will be helpful as a guide for both researchers and clinicians. The first article (part 1) focused on mental health and neurological conditions and the second article (part 2) explored cultured and fermented foods that are commonly available in the United States. The third article (part 3) explored the relationship between bacterial strains and 2 of the most prevalent diseases we have in modern society, cardiometabolic disease and fatigue syndromes. This fourth article (part 4) elucidates the role of the microbiome in infectious diseases. Future articles will review conditions related to infections of the upper respiratory system and ear, nose, and throat; autoimmunity and dermatological conditions; cancer; and gastrointestinal and genitourinary, followed by an article focused on probiotic supplements. This literature review is specific to disease condition, probiotic classification, and individual strain.