Seann's Teaching on Immuno-Regulatory Effect of Probiotics
There is a large body of evidence that has accumulated through several decades suggesting immuno-regulatory effect of probiotic bacteria in the gut can enhance immune protection at distal mucosal sites, such as the urogenital and respiratory tracts (Cristofori et al., 2021; Mahooti et al., 2020; Mack et al., 1999).
All epithelial membranes, whether they are in the gastrointestinal, urogenital, or the respiratory membrane of the sinuses and lungs, have an outer surface interfacing with the external environment, the outside world. It is therefore very important for the protection of the membranes to produce a healthy coat of mucous (they are after all mucous membranes!). Stress, amongst other things, can cause the mucous production to decrease, causing the mucous layer to thin out, leaving the epithelial lining cells vulnerable to toxins and pathogens. It is well established that this condition has become a major problem within the GI tract, and is one of the very important reasons for taking certain probiotics.
Activation of the MUC 2 gene: MUC 2 is the gene locus for the production of mucin, its expression stimulated by certain lactic acid bacteria. The GI tract mucins are large carbohydrate rich glycoproteins that are major components of the mucous layer of the GI tract epithelial surface (as well that the other mucous membranes in the body). These particular glycoproteins are synthesized, stored and secreted from cells on the epithelial surface— the enterocytes and goblet cells. Mucin functions in part, by protecting the epithelial surface from chemicals, enzymatic, mechanical and microbial damage. It has been demonstrated, most importantly, that mucin located on the surface of the intestinal epithelium inhibit the systemic invasion by bacteria (bacterial translocation).
Research has shown that the Lactobacillus genus has the ability to up-regulate the MUC gene. In the Green Facts below we site studies showing the MUC 2 activation by Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus plantarum. Two of the pedigreed organisms we offer in our Original Synbiotic Formula and in the Beta Glucan Synbiotic Formula.
We have been discussing probiotics ability to direct our body’s defenses by interacting genetically with our immune system, but other Therapeutic Foods are needed as well, and create their effects by turning on certain of our body’s genes to transcribe their proteins for action.
Our Glucosinolates & Sulforaphanes serves as a good example. The cruciferous sprouts (Broccoli) are sprouted, grown and then harvested on the 3rd day. Harvesting on the third day is key for that is when the isothiocyanates and glucosinolates are at their height, and these are the family of molecules that “turn-on” our genetics to transcribe phase II proteins.
Phase II proteins are powerful internally produced (endogenous) enzymes that make up our body’s critically important Antioxidant Defense System. These enzymes reduce the free radical load, assist the body with detoxification and protect against cancer. It is important that there are ample amounts in all body cells for their health. The cells of the immune system in particular needs the body’s Antioxidant Defense System to be working optimally.
The immune system in bite size amounts helps us to realize the importance of real food. Our bodies are designed to counteract and heal with proper dietary habits, clean, nutrient-filled foods, and of course, a clean environment. We rarely accomplish this combination, hence our de-evolution process— disease and ecological world-calamities. Our world is interconnected, and our bodies are a part of the larger system. Mucins are not “stand alone” cellular metabolites; they are interconnected, not only to other functions in the body, but also dependent upon the food we eat, bacteria in our gut, and the environment for a healthy interaction. In the next weeks, we will continue to connect the dots and deal with the immune system. Meanwhile, eat well!
Glucosinolates & Sulforaphanes
- Cristofori, F., Dargenio, V. N., Dargenio, C., Miniello, V. L., Barone, M., & Francavilla, R. (2021). Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of probiotics in gut inflammation: a door to the body. Frontiers in Immunology, 12, 178.Article
- Delgado, S., Sánchez, B., Margolles, A., Ruas-Madiedo, P., & Ruiz, L. (2020). Molecules produced by probiotics and intestinal microorganisms with immunomodulatory activity. Nutrients, 12(2), 391. Article
- Mack, D. R., Michail, S., Wei, S., McDougall, L., & Hollingsworth, M. A. (1999). Probiotics inhibit enteropathogenic E. coli adherence in vitro by inducing intestinal mucin gene expression. American Journal of Physiology-Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology, 276(4), G941-G950. Article
- Mahooti, M., Miri, S. M., Abdolalipour, E., & Ghaemi, A. (2020). The immunomodulatory effects of probiotics on respiratory viral infections: A hint for COVID-19 treatment?. Microbial pathogenesis, 104452. Article
- Sredkova, P., Batsalova, T., Moten, D., & Dzhambazov, B. (2020). Prebiotics can change immunomodulatory properties of probiotics. Central-European Journal of Immunology, 45(3), 248. Article
We have developed our products based on scientific research and/or the practical experience of many healthcare practitioners. There is a growing body of literature on food based nutrition and supplements and their application in support of our health. Please use our products under the advisement of your doctor.
Check out this article on probiotics and corona type infections: Mahooti, M., Miri, S. M., Abdolalipour, E., & Ghaemi, A. (2020). The immunomodulatory effects of probiotics on respiratory viral infections: A hint for COVID-19 treatment?. Microbial pathogenesis, 104452. Article
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