Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MD159

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MD159 is a specific probiotic strain isolated from the fermented food, kimchi. It is being investigated as a potential therapy for the prevention and treatment of allergic conditions, particularly atopic dermatitis. As a live biotherapeutic product, its mechanism of action involves modulating the immune system by inhibiting mast cell degranulation, which in turn reduces the release of inflammatory mediators. [1, 7] Preclinical studies in mouse models have shown that L. plantarum MD159 can lower blood levels of total IgE and mast cell protease-1 (MCPT-1), and increase the number of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in the spleen. [1, 2] These actions help to alleviate symptoms associated with allergic skin conditions like erythema, edema, and itching. [1] While showing therapeutic effects, its efficacy in some models was noted as less potent than a similar strain, L. plantarum HD02, though MD159 demonstrated a superior ability to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), indicating a role in improving skin barrier function. [1, 2, 7] Research publications affiliate the strain with GI Biome Inc., Maeil Dairies Co., Ltd., and GI Innovation Inc. [2, 7]