Lactobacillus rhamnosus PB01 Oral Supplementation Alleviates Metabolic and Reproductive Dysfunctions in Type 1
Sihan Liu1, Hiva Alipour1, Malwina Ulanowska1
1Regenerative Medicine, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Gistrup, Denmark.
Molecular Nutrition & Food Research
|July 4, 2025
Summary
Lactobacillus rhamnosus PB01 supplementation improved metabolic and reproductive health in a Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) rat model. This probiotic enhanced insulin sensitivity, aided weight management, and partially restored fertility in diabetic rats.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is associated with significant metabolic and reproductive complications.
- Existing treatments for T1DM often have limitations in addressing these multifaceted dysfunctions.
- Probiotics are increasingly explored for their potential health benefits beyond gut health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Lactobacillus rhamnosus PB01 in mitigating metabolic and reproductive impairments in a T1DM rat model.
- To assess the impact of L. rhamnosus PB01 on insulin sensitivity, body weight, and key reproductive parameters in diabetic conditions.
- To explore the potential of L. rhamnosus PB01 as an adjunct therapy for T1DM management.
Main Methods:
- A Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) rat model was established.
- Diabetic rats were administered daily supplementation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus PB01 (1 × 10⁹ CFU/day).
- Metabolic parameters (weight, insulin resistance via HOMA-IR) and reproductive parameters (sperm hyperactivation, testosterone levels) were assessed and compared to diabetic controls.
Main Results:
- L. rhamnosus PB01 supplementation mitigated diabetes-induced weight loss by approximately 13%.
- The probiotic treatment significantly increased sperm hyperactivation (2.5-fold) and testosterone levels (27%) in diabetic rats.
- Insulin sensitivity was improved, indicated by a 34.12% reduction in HOMA-IR, suggesting better glucose regulation.
Conclusions:
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus PB01 demonstrates significant potential as an adjunct therapy for managing T1DM complications in a rat model.
- The probiotic effectively improved insulin sensitivity, supported weight management, and partially restored fertility impairments associated with diabetes.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings in human subjects and optimize supplementation protocols.
