Probiotics

Emerging biomarkers and new therapeutic breakthroughs in MASLD and MASLD-HCC

Could your housemates be changing your gut bacteria?

A new study from the University of East Anglia found that living with friends may alter your gut bacteria, with social closeness driving the exchange of anaerobic microbes. The research suggests that daily interactions at home, such as hugging and sharing food prep spaces, may encourage the transfer of beneficial gut bacteria.

Simple blood test could spot dementia years earlier, research shows

Researchers discovered subtle changes in the blood can reveal early signs of cognitive decline caused by chemicals produced by gut bacteria. A blood test may one day transform how we detect dementia, potentially identifying people at risk years before symptoms appear.

Reducing the risk of recurrent preterm births using probiotics

Researchers found that early pregnancy probiotics containing Clostridium butyricum significantly reduced the recurrence rate of spontaneous preterm delivery, a major cause of neonatal illness and death. The study suggests that probiotic therapy may offer a simple strategy to prevent premature births in women at high risk.

Specific gut bacteria species (R inulinivorans) linked to muscle strength

Research found that Roseburia inulinivorans is positively associated with muscle mass and strength in both young and older adults. The study suggests that R inulinivorans may play a causal role in muscle strength, with notable increases in forelimb grip strength and larger muscle fibre size in mice treated with the bacteria.

Researchers make probiotic safer for immunocompromised patients

Researchers genetically modified a probiotic yeast to reduce its virulence in immunocompromised patients. The modified yeast was found to be less likely to cause infection, with improved survival rates in animal models.

How studying yeast in the gut could lead to new, better drugs

Researchers identified genes that are activated when yeast cells are in the gut, suggesting a roadmap for engineering more efficient drug-delivery vehicles. The study found that yeast cells were digesting more lipids than carbohydrates in the gut, highlighting potential modifications to improve efficiency.

Healthier, tastier kelp: NUS food scientists boost nutrition and flavour of kombu

NUS food scientists develop a healthier, tastier kombu by co-fermenting enzyme-treated kombu with lactic acid bacteria and aroma-producing yeast. The resulting probiotic blend promotes nutrient bioaccessibility and introduces fruity aromas.

Personalized predictions of probiotic and prebiotic therapy success by computer models

A new study uses metabolic modeling to predict which probiotics will successfully establish themselves in a person's gut and how prebiotics affect short-chain fatty acid production. The findings demonstrate the utility of these models for personalized probiotic and prebiotic interventions.

Missing microbes in UK infant gut and probiotics highlighted by global microbiome atlas

A global atlas mapping two key gut bacteria has uncovered a treasure trove of bacterial strains adapted to the infant gut, not found in commercial probiotic products. The study reveals region-specific strains that have naturally evolved to thrive in a baby's microbiome, shaped by regional diets and environments.

Scientists create ‘smart underwear’ to measure human flatulence

Researchers developed wearable devices that track hydrogen levels in flatus to better understand gut microbial metabolism. The Human Flatus Atlas project aims to establish normal ranges for flatulence production, helping to identify excessive gas complaints and inform dietary interventions.

‘Hidden’ bugs in our gut appear key to good health, finds global study

A global study found that a group of bacteria, CAG-170, consistently appeared in high numbers in the gut microbiomes of healthy individuals. This species has the capacity to produce Vitamin B12 and break down carbohydrates, suggesting it plays a crucial role in maintaining human health.

Probiotics combined with antidiabetic drugs overcome the “drug black hole,” achieving enhanced efficacy and reduced toxicity

Researchers discovered a probiotic strain, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis B960, that enhances the glucose-lowering effects of glibenclamide with minimal degradation. This combination therapy reduces fasting blood glucose levels and improves pancreatic function while alleviating hepatotoxicity.

Study suggests bamboo has ‘superfood’ potential

A recent review of bamboo consumption found promising health benefits, including improved metabolic health, reduced inflammation, and antioxidant activity. However, caution is advised due to potential risks associated with raw or improperly prepared bamboo.

Gas-shearing fabrication of single-bacterium microgels: A breakthrough in precision probiotic delivery for IBD therapy

Researchers develop a novel approach to precisely encapsulate individual probiotics into microgels, enhancing survival and targeted delivery in the gastrointestinal system. The study demonstrates improved therapeutic efficacy in treating IBD using this technology.

Ribosomal engineering creates “super-probiotic” bacteria

Researchers from Shinshu University used ribosome engineering to modify probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG, resulting in increased colonization and enhanced immune stimulation. The engineered bacteria exhibit altered surface protein expression and induce higher activation of immune cells.

Probiotics can restore gut microbiome in breastfed infants

A new study found that supplementing exclusively breastfed infants with probiotic Bifidobacterium infantis EVC001 between 2-4 months can restore beneficial bacteria in their gut. This approach may have lasting benefits for breastfed infants, even after supplementation stops.

Probiotics and prebiotics offer safer alternatives to antibiotics in animal agriculture

A study by Shinshu University researchers highlights the potential of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics to enhance livestock gut health, immunity, and growth while reducing dependence on antibiotics. The findings support sustainable livestock management and contribute to reducing antimicrobial resistance risks.

How to hack your microbiome for lifelong health

A healthy microbiome promotes overall well-being, influencing areas like cognition, mood, immunity, and disease susceptibility. By incorporating proven dietary interventions, regular exercise, stress reduction, and adequate sleep, individuals can harness their microbiome for optimal health.

Winners of Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2025 announced

The winners of the Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2025 have been recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to global challenges through applied microbiology. The awards celebrate excellence across various domains, including drug discovery and sustainable agriculture.

More than a feeling: Could a healthier gut improve mental health?

Researchers from the University of South Australia explore the connection between the gut and brain to decipher their role in mental health and wellbeing. The study found that changes in the gut microbiome can directly affect brain chemistry, suggesting a potential link between gut health and mental illness.

‘Good’ gut bacteria boosts placenta for healthier pregnancy

Research reveals that Bifidobacterium breve in pregnant mothers regulates the placenta's hormone production, reducing complications and improving fetal growth. The study opens up a new approach to assessing pregnancy health through gut microbiome analysis.

$2 million to decode bacteria’s role in fighting disease

The University of California - Riverside is receiving a $2 million grant to investigate how gut microbes interact with their human hosts to influence health. The research aims to create next-generation probiotics that strengthen the gut microbiome, improve vaccine effectiveness, and prevent infections.

Can the 'good' bacteria in your mouth act as probiotic cavity fighters?

A UC Berkeley professor and her team have discovered gene clusters in the oral microbiome that produce molecules helping good bacteria stick to teeth, outcompeting acid-producing cavities. The researchers plan to introduce these gene clusters into healthy bacteria to form strong biofilms, reducing cavities.

Scientists find a microbial molecule that restores liver and gut health

Researchers found that a compound produced by Lactobacillus bacteria can reverse liver and gut damage caused by aflatoxin exposure. The molecule, 10-hydroxystearic acid, activated PPARα signaling to repair liver tissue and support gut health.

Disarming a hidden killer: Predicting – and preventing – C. diff before it strikes

Institute for Systems Biology researchers use microbial community-scale metabolic models to simulate C. diff behavior in human gut microbiome samples. They accurately predict colonization states, susceptibility, and response to probiotics, offering a path to prevent C. diff before it starts.

Frontiers Forum Deep Dive series: Microbial map reveals countless hidden connections between our food, health, and planet

Researchers have mapped microbial networks underpinning healthy food systems, highlighting the need for integrated approaches to address climate crisis, antibiotic overuse and pesticide reliance. This work is driving microbiome-based solutions for animal, human and environmental health.

Healthy food systems: Microbial map reveals countless hidden connections between our food, health, and planet

Researchers have mapped the microbiome of agri-food systems, revealing how diverse and balanced microbes keep our food safe, nutritious, and sustainable. The map highlights areas where targeted interventions such as probiotics and biofertilizers can improve food quality and reduce antibiotic use.

Japanese industry leaders support Tokyo Microbiota 2025

Four leading Japanese corporations in the health and nutrition sectors have joined forces to advance microbiome science. The event aims to explore recent research and development achievements, engage with industry innovators, and promote practical applications of fundamental research.

Bacterial genomes hold clues for creating personalized probiotics

Researchers created an 'encyclopedia of sugar utilization pathways' in 263 Bifidobacterium genomes. This resource helps predict which strains thrive in different conditions, enabling personalized probiotics to match children's lifestyles and dietary needs. The study suggests a potential solution to improving outcomes for preterm infants.

Quality and antibiotic resistance risks in livestock probiotics in China

A recent study analyzed 95 commercial probiotic products from China, revealing low labeling accuracy and high prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes in Enterococcus strains. The findings suggest that low-quality probiotics can disrupt intestinal homeostasis and serve as a reservoir for ARGs. Researchers emphasize the need for carefu...

Multiresistant intestinal bacteria: Displacement through food competition

A study by HZI researchers showed that specific strains of E. coli can displace multi-resistant bacteria from the gut, potentially preventing infections and containing their spread. The strains, which were tested in a mouse model, also proved effective against other resistant strains when combined with Klebsiella oxytoca.

Gut microbes could protect us from toxic ‘forever chemicals’

Scientists have discovered that certain species of gut bacteria can absorb PFAS, potentially protecting against its harmful effects. The researchers plan to develop probiotic dietary supplements to boost the levels of these helpful microbes in our gut.

Fecal transplants: Promising treatment or potential health risk?

New research warns against widespread use of Fecal Microbiota Transplants (FMT) due to potential for long-lasting, unintended health consequences. Mismatches in gut ecosystems can lead to changes in metabolism, behavior, and energy balance.

Researchers develop dissolvable battery using probiotics

A team of researchers at Binghamton University has developed a dissolvable battery using probiotics, which can provide a safe and sustainable energy source for transient applications. The battery utilizes electricity-producing bacteria that are commonly found in the human digestive system and are considered biocompatible.

Smithsonian research reveals that probiotics slow spread of deadly disease decimating Caribbean reefs

Researchers have discovered that a bacterial probiotic helps slow the spread of stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) in already infected wild corals in Florida. Applying the probiotic treatment across entire coral colonies helped prevent tissue loss, providing a more lasting protection than traditional antibiotics.

Gut bacteria and acetate, a great combination for weight loss

A study published in Cell Metabolism finds that a combination of gut bacteria and acetate reduces obesity in mice. The researchers discovered that the specific combination of Bacteroides species and acetate leads to increased fat burning and reduced sugar storage, resulting in weight loss.

Probiotic supplementation may help reduce chemotherapy side effects in breast cancer

A new study suggests that multi-strain probiotics can alleviate chemotherapy-related side effects such as fatigue, nausea, and weakness. Probiotics have been shown to improve blood urea nitrogen levels and enable patients to perform daily activities more independently.

Study of facial bacteria could lead to probiotics that promote healthy skin

Researchers found that new strains of Cutibacterium acnes, a species believed to contribute to acne development, are acquired during the early teenage years. This transitional stage could be the best window for introducing probiotic strains of C. acnes to prevent acne.

A probiotic bacterial strain proven more effective for treating a common intestinal infection

Researchers have discovered a new probiotic bacterial strain that is 15% more effective in treating giardiasis than the existing strain. The strain, Lactobacillus johnsonii CNCM I-4884, has significant anti-Giardia activity and can transform conjugated bile salts into toxic compounds for the parasite.

Probiotic may improve sleep quality: new research findings

A recent study found that a probiotic supplement called Lactobacillus helveticus CCFM1320 can improve sleep quality in patients with insomnia. The probiotic enhanced the methylation of N-acetylserotonin, leading to normalized circadian rhythm gene expression.

2025 Gut Microbiota for Health World Summit to spotlight groundbreaking research

The summit will highlight the latest research on coronavirus, plant-based protein, and probiotics, with a focus on their applications in clinical practice. Studies have found that COVID-19 affects the gut microbiome in children, while dietary protein like S100B may promote a healthy microbiome.

Chocolate — with potential health benefits

Researchers developed synbiotic chocolates fortified with probiotics and prebiotics, showing improved gut microbiome balance and probiotic survival rates. The study found that the orange-flavored chocolates had a softer texture and more luxurious bite experience.

Novel enzyme found in gut bacteria could revolutionize prebiotic research

A new enzyme discovered in a gut bacterium has the potential to synthesize unique glycans with prebiotic properties, supporting gut health. The novel β-galactosidase could drive innovation in prebiotic products and contribute to developing new treatments for diseases like Chagas disease.

Synthetic microbiome therapy suppresses bacterial infection without antibiotics

Researchers developed a synthetic microbiome therapy using limited strains of gut bacteria to effectively protect against C. difficile infections in mice. The treatment was as effective as traditional fecal transplants and had fewer safety concerns, offering a new alternative for treating this notoriously difficult-to-treat infection.

Infant gut bacteria and food allergies: the good, the bad, and the ugly

Research from RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences found that infant gut bacteria are associated with food sensitivities and allergies, particularly to eggs. The study suggests that probiotic supplements, such as Bifidobacterium, may help prevent food allergies in at-risk infants.

Precision medicine and inflammatory diseases: Surrey research highlights power of metabolic modelling to generate personalized probiotics

Researchers at the University of Surrey propose a new approach to treating inflammatory diseases using personalized probiotic therapies. By analyzing large-scale computer models and computational methodologies, they can identify potential targets and design tailored treatments.

Feeding your good gut bacteria through fiber in diet may boost body against infections

Researchers found that a person's microbiome signature can predict the likelihood of Enterobacteriaceae colonization. Fiber-rich foods support the growth of beneficial Faecalibacterium, which produce short-chain fatty acids protecting against infection.

Food study launched examining bone health of women 60 years and older

Hebrew SeniorLife has launched a 18-month clinical food trial to test the combination of probiotics and prebiotics for managing bone health in women aged 60. The study, funded by the National Institute on Aging, aims to investigate the underlying mechanisms leading to age-related bone loss.

Unlocking the mysteries of the human gut

A study by the National Center for Supercomputing Applications aims to create personalized nutrition plans based on an individual's unique gut microbiome. The researchers used Illinois Computes to analyze metabolomic data and develop a database of metabolites that can help diagnose diseases more efficiently.

Exploring the impact of probiotics on gut microbiota disruption caused by antibiotics

A review of probiotics for restoring antibiotic-disturbed gut microbiota found limited conclusive evidence. While certain probiotics can reduce clinical symptoms like diarrhea and C. difficile colitis, the lack of standardization in measuring microbiota disruption and recovery hinders conclusions.

Probiotic may counteract fire-retardant chemical damage

A UC Riverside study found that probiotic supplementation can reduce the negative impacts of PBDEs on neurodevelopment, behavior, and metabolism in mouse offspring. The researchers discovered that LR treatment helped normalize body weight gain and tooth eruption timing, as well as improved glucose metabolism and insulin levels.

Probiotic delivers anticancer drug to the gut

Researchers at WashU Medicine engineered a probiotic that delivers immunotherapy directly to the gut, shrinking tumors in mice. The probiotic uses a yeast-based system to produce immune checkpoint inhibitors, potentially treating hard-to-reach cancers.

Winners of Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2024 announced

The winners of the Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2024 have been named, including the One Health Microbiome Center at Penn State and researchers Dr. François Thomas and Dr. Helen Onyeaka.

Scientists discover how specific E. coli bacteria drive colon cancer

Researchers have found that specific E. coli bacteria in the gut promote colon cancer by binding to intestinal cells and releasing a DNA-damaging toxin called colibactin. This binding is made possible by bacterial pili and adhesins, which can be targeted to prevent tumor development.

Expert publication recommends considering dietary factors in probiotics and prebiotics research

A new perspective paper emphasizes the critical role of diet in shaping the efficacy of prebiotics and probiotics. The authors found that diet significantly affects gut microbiome composition and function, potentially impacting the success of these interventions. Researchers are urged to collect data on participants' background diets a...

Study shows wild birds’ health and likely survival is affected by the gut microbiome

Researchers at University College Cork found that wild birds' gut microbiome impacts their growth, weight, and survival. The study manipulated the birds' microbiome by feeding them beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus kimchicus.

Experts propose key criteria to classify prebiotics

A new framework outlines essential criteria for establishing prebiotic status, emphasizing selective utilization, measurable health benefits, and safe use. The proposed guidelines aim to promote clarity and informed decision-making around prebiotic products.

LEGO-inspired advances in life sciences drives customizable sensor technology

A research team developed an RNA-based sensor platform that can regulate gene expression in bacteria, mimicking natural biological interactions. The START platform enables tunable control over sensor response and detection of various molecules, including drugs and proteins.

Natural probiotic discovered in UK newborns microbiomes

A new study has found a natural probiotic in the microbiomes of UK newborns, which could be used to develop personalized infant therapeutic probiotics. The researchers analyzed stool samples from 1,288 healthy infants and found that one of the pioneer bacteria was genetically adapted to utilize breast milk nutrients and block pathogens.