Anti-inflammatory effect of multi-strain probiotic formulation (l. rhamnosus, b. lactis and b. longum)

Objective In the past recent years, a great number of studies have been directed toward the evaluation of gastro-intestinal microbiota modulation through the introduction of beneficial microorganisms, also known as probiotics. Many studies have highlighted how this category of bacteria is very important for the good development, functioning and maintenance of our immune system. There is a delicate balance between the immune system, located under the gut epithelial barrier, and the microbiota, but many factors can induce a disequilibrium that leads to an inflammatory state and dysbiosis. The aim of this work is to verify the anti-inflammatory effects of a probiotic formulation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium lactis and Bifidobacterium longum (Serobioma). Research Methods and Procedures To mimic the natural host compartmentalization between probiotics and immune cells through the intestinal epithelial barrier in vitro, the transwell model was used. We focused on a particular subset of immune cells that play a key role in the mucosal immune system. The immunomodulatory effects of probiotic formulation were investigated in the human macrophage cell line THP1 and macrophages derived from ex vivo human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Results Probiotic formulation induced a significant increase in anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 production and was able to decrease the secretion of the major pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6 by 70% and 80% respectively. Finally, for the first time, the ability of probiotic formulation to favour the macrophage M2 phenotype has been demonstrated. Conclusion The transwell model is an intriguing troll for studying the human epithelial barrier.