Protection against gastrointestinal diseases--present facts and future developments

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology
• Immunology

Background:

• The intestinal microflora significantly influences human physiological and pathophysiological processes.
• Key roles include immune modulation, motility regulation, and managing endotoxins.
• Lactobacilli are recognized for their beneficial effects on gastrointestinal health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role of intestinal microflora composition in health and disease.
• To highlight the therapeutic potential of lactobacilli in gastrointestinal disorders.
• To review evidence supporting lactobacilli for preventing and treating gut infections and related conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical trials and scientific studies on lactobacilli and intestinal microflora.
• Analysis of methods to increase lactobacilli proportion (fermented dairy, oligofructose).
• Evaluation of studies on lactobacilli effects on infections, immunity, motility, and carcinogenesis.

Main Results:

• Lactobacilli consumption, via fermented foods or supplements, can increase their gut proportion.
• Selected lactobacilli strains demonstrate preventive and therapeutic effects against intestinal infections.
• Positive impacts observed on immunological parameters, intestinal motility, and inhibition of colon cancer promoting events.

Conclusions:

• Lactobacilli hold significant therapeutic potential for various gastrointestinal conditions.
• Further well-controlled clinical trials are needed to fully elucidate unresolved questions.
• Modulating the intestinal microflora with lactobacilli offers new avenues for disease prevention and therapy.