Antiallergic Effects of Probiotic Lactobacilli – Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms

摘要

The continued increase in prevalence of allergic rhinitis particularly in developed countries is a matter of public health concern. Allergic rhinitis is characterized by an elevation in serum Immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels, which is caused by an imbalance in the expression of T helper cells (Th1-) and Th2-cytokines. Several studies have shown certain lactobacilli bacteria possess antiallergic properties; however the effect is strain and dose-dependent. The suggested mechanisms for the antiallergic effects include improvement of the T helper cells (Th) 1/Th2 immunobalance by inducing the Th1 cytokines and suppressing Th2-skewed immuno-response. Besides, lactobacilli can stimulate the regulatory T cells, which are vital in the maintenance of the immune balance through the production of immunosuppressive cytokines. Some lactobacilli have demonstrated the potential to modulate serum IgE, IgA and IgG production. However, the molecular mechanism for the immunoregulatory effect of probiotic lactobacilli is yet to be fully elucidated.This review highlights the novel opportunities for utilizing probioticstowards prevention or management of allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis and mainly focuses on the potential cellular and molecular mechanism underlying the antiallergic effect of probiotic lactobacilli.