Efficacy of Bifidobacterium longum alone or in multi-strain probiotic formulations during early life and beyond

Abstract

The significance of Bifidobacterium to human health can be appreciated from its early colonization of the neonatal gut, where Bifidobacterium longum represents the most abundant species. While its relative abundance declines with age, it is further reduced in several diseases. Research into the beneficial properties of B. longum has unveiled a range of mechanisms, including the production of bioactive molecules, such as short-chain fatty acids, polysaccharides, and serine protease inhibitors. From its intestinal niche, B. longum can have far-reaching effects in the body influencing immune responses in the lungs and even skin, as well as influencing brain activity. In this review, we present the biological and clinical impacts of this species on a range of human conditions beginning in neonatal life and beyond. The available scientific evidence reveals a strong rationale for continued research and further clinical trials that investigate the ability of B. longum to treat or prevent a range of diseases across the human lifespan.

Keywords: Bifidobacterium; Bifidobacterium longum ssp. infantis; Bifidobacterium longum ssp. longum; Cardiovascular disease; Cognitive impairment; Gut microbiota; Health; Immunity; Necrotizing enterocolitis; Neonate; Probiotic.

Figure 1.

Overview of 64 clinical trials conducted with B. longum alone or with other species, and prebiotics. Trials have been categorised according to region/organ of body under investigation. Total number of trials conducted in each category is provided, as well as number of trials conducted in infants and children, adults, and the elderly. The lowest and highest numbers of participants in these trials are included. The most common trial endpoints are provided for each category.