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Clostridium species as probiotics: potentials and challenges
Pingting Guo1, Ke Zhang1, Xi Ma1
1State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, No. 2 Yuanmingyuan West Road, Beijing, 100193 China.
Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology
|February 27, 2020
Summary
Clostridium species in the gut offer health benefits by strengthening the intestinal barrier and immune system. This review explores their potential as probiotics while considering associated risks for human and animal applications.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Clostridium species are key gut commensals influencing intestinal homeostasis.
- These bacteria possess anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
- Diet and host health modulate Clostridium populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the benefits and risks of Clostridium species for human and animal health.
- To evaluate the potential of Clostridium species as novel probiotics.
- To inform future applications in health and production.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of research on Clostridium species.
- Analysis of studies on their cellular components and metabolites (e.g., butyrate, bile acids, indolepropionic acid).
- Examination of their interactions with intestinal epithelial cells and the immune system.
Main Results:
- Clostridium species contribute to intestinal health through metabolites that energize cells and strengthen the gut barrier.
- They modulate the immune system, impacting inflammation and allergic responses.
- Specific dietary patterns and host physiological states influence gut Clostridium composition.
Conclusions:
- Clostridium species demonstrate significant potential as probiotics due to their salutary effects.
- Understanding and mitigating potential risks are crucial for their safe application.
- Further research can optimize the use of Clostridium species in human and animal production.
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