Weissella cibaria (W. cibaria)

Weissella cibaria is a species of Gram-positive, non-spore-forming, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) that is frequently isolated from fermented foods, the environment, and the human oral cavity. It is primarily characterized as a probiotic organism rather than a molecular drug target such as a receptor or enzyme. In clinical and dental research, W. cibaria is recognized for its ability to promote oral health by inhibiting the formation of Streptococcus mutans biofilms and reducing the production of volatile sulfur compounds that cause halitosis. Its therapeutic effects are mediated through the production of antimicrobial agents like hydrogen peroxide and bacteriocins, as well as the modulation of the host's immune system by stimulating cytokine production. While generally considered safe and beneficial, W. cibaria is an organism that can be affected by antibiotics and, in extremely rare cases, has been associated with opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals. It serves as a live biotherapeutic agent or functional food ingredient rather than a target for small molecule drug inhibition.

Other names

Lactic acid bacteriaLABWeissella cibaria CMUWeissella cibaria CMS1Weissella cibaria JW15

As a probiotic, it acts through competitive exclusion of pathogens, production of antimicrobial metabolites (organic acids, H2O2, weissellicins), and modulation of the host immune response (e.g., IL-12 induction).