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Potential Health-Promoting Benefits of Paraprobiotics, Inactivated Probiotic Cells
Shahina Akter1, Jong-Hyun Park1, Hoo Kil Jung1
1Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, College of BioNano Technology, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:
Viability plays an important role in the beneficial microbes (probiotics) to produce health benefits. However, this idea has been changed after the invention of the term "paraprobiotics," indicating that non-viable microbes could produce health benefits similar to those produced by live probiotics. Occasionally, it might be dangerous to administer live probiotics to people with weak immunity. In such cases, ingestion of paraprobiotics could be a potential alternative. The definition of paraprobiotics refers to the use of inactivated (non-viable) microbial cells or cell fractions to provide health benefits to the consumer. Paraprobiotics have attracted much attention because of their long shelf life, safety, and beneficial effects, such as modulation of immunity, modification of biological responses, reduction of cholesterol, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative properties. These features indicate that paraprobiotics may play a vital role in improving the health of the consumer by enhancing particular physiological functions, even though the exact underlying mechanisms have not yet been completely elucidated. In this mini-review, we briefly discuss the historical backgrounds of paraprobiotics and evidence of their health-promoting effects, prophylactic, and therapeutic properties.
Insights
Paraprobiotics, or inactivated microbes, offer health benefits similar to live probiotics without the risks associated with live microorganisms. They are a safe and effective alternative for enhancing physiological functions and overall health.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Traditionally, live beneficial microbes (probiotics) were thought essential for health benefits.
- The concept of paraprobiotics emerged, demonstrating that inactivated microbial cells also confer health advantages.
- Live probiotics can pose risks, especially for immunocompromised individuals, necessitating safer alternatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development of paraprobiotics.
- To present evidence supporting the health-promoting effects of paraprobiotics.
- To discuss the prophylactic and therapeutic properties of paraprobiotics.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on paraprobiotics.
- Analysis of studies on inactivated microbial cells and their health effects.
- Examination of research on immune modulation, cholesterol reduction, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Main Results:
- Paraprobiotics are inactivated microbial cells or fractions offering health benefits.
- They possess advantages like extended shelf life and enhanced safety.
- Reported benefits include immune modulation, cholesterol reduction, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Conclusions:
- Paraprobiotics represent a safe and viable alternative to live probiotics.
- They show potential in improving consumer health by enhancing physiological functions.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of action for paraprobiotics.
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