[Prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics-An introduction]

Abstract

The human microbiome consists of a diverse array of microorganisms that perform essential functions for health. In particular, the oral microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by preventing the colonization of pathogenic bacteria and regulating pH balance. Dysbiosis of the oral microbiome has been linked to the development of caries, periodontal diseases and oral squamous cell carcinoma. Moreover, a bidirectional interaction between the oral and intestinal microbiomes is mediated through the so-called oral-gut axis. In recent years, prebiotics, probiotics and especially postbiotics have been extensively studied for their potential in microbiome modulation. Postbiotics represent a promising alternative as they do not contain viable microorganisms but bioactive metabolites, cell wall fragments or enzymes that exert immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Particularly in the context of oral health, postbiotics show potential benefits by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microbes, regulating immune responses and reducing inflammatory processes. Recent research results suggest that postbiotics can sustainably improve oral health. Furthermore, preliminary studies indicate their potential application as an adjunct therapy for oral cancer due to their antitumor properties.

Keywords: Bioactive metabolites; Dysbiosis; Oral health; Oral microbiome; Oral-gut axis.