Antiviral mechanism of Lactobacillus in aquaculture: A minireview

Viral pathogens persistently threaten global aquaculture by causing serious economic losses and compromising food security. This urgency highlights the need for sustainable alternatives to conventional control methods. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB), particularly Lactobacillus strains, have emerged as promising biocontrol agents due to their generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status and multifaceted antimicrobial properties. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the mechanisms of antiviral properties of Lactobacillus in aquaculture. The first line of defense involves direct virion inactivation through physicochemical interactions that sequester viral particles, combined with capsid destabilization by Lactobacillus metabolites. Subsequently, probiotics modulate host cell receptors to reduce viral attachment and entry. Finally, Lactobacillus strains stimulate systemic and mucosal antiviral immunity in aquatic hosts. By integrating these mechanisms, Lactobacillus establishes a multi-layered defense against viral intrusion. These mechanistic insights can guide the strategic application of Lactobacillus to enhance biosecurity and support the sustainable growth of the aquaculture industry.