A blend of probiotics branded as Cerebiome by Lallemand Health Solutions may improve gut health parameters associated with anxiety, according to a study which used a dynamic in vitro microbiome model.
 
The authors introduced the proprietary combination of L. helveticus Rosell-52 and B. longum Rosell-175 to a SHIME (Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem), a dynamic replica of the human gastrointestinal tract which tracks probiotics’ passage through the stomach, small intestine, and colon. The donors for the SHIME model used in the study were selected because they self-reported symptoms of anxiety.
 
The SHIME study showed that Cerebiome decreased two bacteria genera associated with anxiety symptoms and inflammation, Lachnospira and Escheria-Shigella. After 14 days of simulated probiotic intake, GABA production also increased significantly compared to the control.
 
Further, the probiotics significantly decreased ammonia production, a phenomenon associated with motor and cognitive dysfunction.
 
The researchers also confirmed for the first time that the Cerebiome strains survive the gastrointestinal passage, significantly increase short-chain fatty acid production, and exert a positive effect on cytokine secretion in the gut.
 
“Knowledge of the microbiota signature in patients with mild anxiety disorders provides a promising direction for mental illness prevention and opens a new perspective on the use of psychobiotics as a therapeutic intervention,” said Dr. Katia Sivieri, the lead author of the study.
 
“The SHIME study reinforces our commitment to physicians and patients,” said Márcio Castanha, commercial vice president at Apsen Farmaceutica, Lallemand Health Solutions’ commercial partner in Brazil. “By contributing to science, we are also building a more scientific base for the proper use of our products, while helping thousands of Brazilians who suffer from occasional or mild anxiety symptoms.”
 
“We are very pleased of our ever-flourishing collaboration with Apsen, a partner with whom we share a similar scientific philosophy and work ethic. Our cooperation over the years has garnered the introduction of innovative probiotic solutions for the benefit of all Brazilians,” notes Edwing Koc, sales manager, responsible for the Latin America region at Lallemand Health Solutions.
 
Cerebiome is the first probiotic formulation with gut-brain axis benefits on the Brazilian market with approved health claims by the Brazilian health authority, ANVISA.