Probiotics: an alternative anti-parasite therapy.

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Microbiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Gastrointestinal parasitic infections pose significant global health challenges, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.
• Conventional anti-parasitic drugs face increasing resistance, necessitating novel control strategies.
• Probiotics, or beneficial microorganisms, are emerging as a potential prophylactic approach against various diseases, including parasitic infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current research on the efficacy of probiotics against helminth and protozoan parasites.
• To summarize the proposed mechanisms of action for probiotic-mediated protection.
• To highlight the potential of probiotics as an alternative strategy for parasite control in human and veterinary medicine.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent scientific studies.
• Analysis of in vitro and animal model research on probiotic-parasite-host interactions.
• Synthesis of findings on probiotic effects against both gut and non-gut parasites.

Main Results:

• Probiotics demonstrate prophylactic and therapeutic potential against a range of parasitic infections.
• Evidence suggests probiotics modulate host immune responses and directly interfere with parasite viability.
• Mechanisms include competitive exclusion, production of antimicrobial substances, and immune system enhancement.

Conclusions:

• Probiotics represent a promising alternative to conventional drugs for controlling parasitic infections.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of action and optimize probiotic applications.
• Probiotics offer a sustainable strategy for managing parasitic diseases in public and veterinary health.