Reduction of inflammatory cytokine production via immune modulation by lactic acid bacteria

The entry "Inflammatory cytokine production reduction via immune modulation by lactic acid bacteria strains" does not refer to a specific molecular target such as a receptor, enzyme, or transporter. Instead, it describes a broad biological process whereby certain strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB)—including species like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium—modulate the host's immune system. This immunomodulation can lead to reduced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased levels of regulatory or anti-inflammatory mediators. LAB interact with the gut mucosa and local immune cells such as dendritic cells and macrophages. These interactions can result in changes in both innate and adaptive immunity—such as enhanced phagocytic activity, increased secretion of IgA antibodies, balanced T-helper cell responses, upregulation or downregulation of various interleukins (ILs), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interferon gamma (IFN-gamma), among others[1][2][3]. The effects are strain-dependent and may involve bacterial metabolites like exopolysaccharides. This is not considered a canonical therapeutic target but rather an area describing the mechanism-of-action for probiotic interventions aimed at modulating inflammation-related diseases including infections, allergies, gastrointestinal disorders, and some cancers[8]. Because this entry is not a single molecule/receptor but rather an umbrella term for complex host-microbe interactions affecting inflammatory signaling pathways through multiple mechanisms—and because it lacks specificity—it should be flagged as incorrect if used where only molecular targets are appropriate. "Many studies have demonstrated that LAB induce functional modifications in immune cells... focusing on increased cytokine production... However... these effects extend beyond innate immunity..."[2] "In analyses... the most remarkable effect was the increase in tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) ...and regulatory cytokine IL‑10 for all probiotic strains assayed. This effect was obtained without increasing the inflammatory response..."[3]

Other names

Immune modulation by lactic acid bacteriaLAB-mediated cytokine regulationProbiotic immunomodulation

Modulation of innate and adaptive immune responses through interaction with antigen-presenting cells (e.g., dendritic cells, macrophages), leading to altered cytokine profiles[1][2][3]