November 14, 2017
A study epublished in September 2017 found that probiotic supplementation in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) results in reduced expression of genes related to inflammation.
In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, researchers evaluated the impact of supplementation with probiotics on gene expression involved in inflammation and insulin and lipid metabolism in patients with MS. The study included 40 individuals assigned to receive either a probiotic capsule containing Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. casei, L. fermentum, and Bifidobacterium bifidum, or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. The study authors measured gene expression in white blood cell samples obtained from the participants.
There was no significant impact of probiotics on gene expression of interleukin (IL)-1 or peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ. However, in the probiotic group, gene expression of IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was reduced compared to subjects given placebo.
According to the study authors, “Overall, probiotic supplementation for 12 weeks in patients with MS significantly improved gene expression of IL-8 and TNF-α but did not influence IL-1, PPAR-γ, or LDLR.”
Reference:
Tamtaji OR, et al. J Am Coll Nutr. Sep 18, 2017.
