Types of probiotic strains
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Types of Probiotic Strains
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host. Various strains of probiotics have been identified and studied for their unique properties and potential health benefits. This article explores different types of probiotic strains, their characteristics, and their applications.
Weissella and Periweissella Strains
Weissella and Periweissella Species
Weissella and Periweissella are genera of lactic acid bacteria that have shown significant probiotic potential. A comprehensive analysis of six type strains from these genera, including Weissella diestrammenae, Weissella uvarum, Periweissella beninensis, Periweissella fabalis, Periweissella fabaria, and Periweissella ghanensis, revealed their ability to survive gastrointestinal transit, adhere to intestinal cells, and exhibit autoaggregation and hydrophobicity characteristics. Among these, Periweissella beninensis was identified as the most promising candidate due to its probiotic features and safety profile1.
Lacticaseibacillus Strains
Lacticaseibacillus casei, Lacticaseibacillus chiayiensis, and Lacticaseibacillus zeae
Lacticaseibacillus casei, Lacticaseibacillus chiayiensis, and Lacticaseibacillus zeae are closely related species with notable probiotic properties. These strains, isolated from raw milk, demonstrated tolerance to acid and bile salts, inhibitory action against pathogenic bacteria, and antioxidant capacity. Genomic analysis highlighted genes related to biosynthesis, defense mechanisms, adhesion, and stress adaptation, underscoring their potential as probiotic candidates2.
Lactobacillus Strains
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53103) is a well-documented probiotic strain known for its ability to survive in the stomach and small intestine and transiently colonize the gastrointestinal tract. It has been shown to stabilize gut permeability and provide benefits in various intestinal disturbances caused by pathogens4.
Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus paracasei
Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus paracasei are part of the Lactobacillus acidophilus group, which includes strains commonly used in probiotic foods. These strains are selected based on their physiological and functional properties, such as their ability to inhibit pathogen adhesion and modulate immune responses5 6.
Single-Strain vs. Multi-Strain Probiotics
Efficacy Comparison
The efficacy of single-strain probiotics versus multi-strain mixtures has been a topic of debate. Studies have shown that single strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG can be more effective for specific conditions, such as necrotizing enterocolitis, while multi-strain mixtures may offer synergistic benefits for other conditions, such as the eradication of H. pylori3 8. The choice of probiotic should be based on evidence from clinical trials rather than the number of strains9.
Conclusion
Probiotic strains vary widely in their properties and potential health benefits. Weissella and Periweissella species, Lacticaseibacillus casei, Lacticaseibacillus chiayiensis, Lacticaseibacillus zeae, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG are among the notable strains with documented probiotic potential. The efficacy of probiotics can be strain-specific and disease-specific, highlighting the importance of selecting the appropriate strain based on clinical evidence.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Probiotic Potential and Safety Assessment of Type Strains of Weissella and Periweissella Species
The P. beninensis type strain of Weissella and Periweissella species demonstrates high probiotic potential and safety, making it the best candidate for human consumption.
In Vitro StudyComplete Genome Sequencing and Comparative Genomics of Three Potential Probiotic Strains, Lacticaseibacillus casei FBL6, Lacticaseibacillus chiayiensis FBL7, and Lacticaseibacillus zeae FBL8
Lactic acidophilus strains L. chiayiensis and L. zeae, closely related to L. casei, show potential as probiotic candidates with tolerant acid and bile salt tolerance, inhibitory action against pathogenic bacteria, and antioxidant capacity.
Efficacy of Single-Strain Probiotics Versus Multi-Strain Mixtures: Systematic Review of Strain and Disease Specificity
Single-strain probiotics are generally equivalent to multi-strain mixtures, with only a few exceptions where multi-strain mixtures are more effective than single-strain probiotics.
Systematic Review
Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedLactobacillus GG—a human probiotic strain with thorough clinical documentation
Lactobacillus GG is a human probiotic strain with proven benefits for intestinal disturbances, prophylactic use, and stabilizing gut permeability.
Highly CitedTaxonomy and important features of probiotic microorganisms in food and nutrition.
Modern molecular techniques are crucial for identifying and distinguishing probiotic strains, which are crucial for their safety and applicability in food and nutrition.
Highly CitedProbiotic potential of Lactobacillus strains isolated from dairy products
Lactobacillus strains from dairy products possess desirable probiotic properties, inhibiting pathogenic bacteria adhesion and promoting anti-inflammatory responses in vitro.
Highly CitedLacticaseibacillus rhamnosus: A Suitable Candidate for the Construction of Novel Bioengineered Probiotic Strains for Targeted Pathogen Control
Lactic acidophilus rhamnosus is a suitable candidate for creating novel bioengineered probiotic strains for targeted pathogen control, offering enhanced health benefits and potential for therapeutic agent delivery.
Literature ReviewRigorous JournalMulti-Strain Probiotics: Synergy among Isolates Enhances Biological Activities
Multi-strain probiotics show synergistic effects in managing diseases, inhibiting antibiotic-resistant pathogens, and improving gut health.
Highly CitedStrain-Specificity and Disease-Specificity of Probiotic Efficacy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Probiotic efficacy is both strain-specific and disease-specific, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to consider both factors when recommending the appropriate probiotic for their patients.
Meta-AnalysisHighly CitedEffect of multi-strain probiotics (multi-strain microbial cell preparation) on glycemic control and other diabetes-related outcomes in people with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial
Probiotics modestly improved HbA1c and fasting insulin levels in people with type 2 diabetes, but did not significantly affect secondary outcomes.
RCTRigorous JournalHighly Cited