Lactobacillus strains stabilize intestinal microbiota in Japanese cedar pollinosis patients

A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to ascertain the intestinal microbiota-altering properties of LGG and L. gasseri TMC0356 (TMC0356) in Japanese cedar Cryptomeria japonica pollinosis patients. Fecal bacteria communities were examined before and after fermented milk administration using culture, FISH and T-RFLP methods. Test group subjects showed the presence of LGG and TMC0356 along with a significant increase in fecal lactobacilli (P < 0.001) after giving LGG and TMC0356 fermented milk. Culture and FISH analysis revealed no significant changes in other intestinal bacterial groups. Each subject exhibited a characteristic T-RFLP profile pattern that varied quantitatively and qualitatively with JCP shedding. Profile changes were observed in 53% of placebo group subjects and in 21% of test group subject's post-administration, indicating that LGG and TMC0356 suppressed intestinal microbiota changes in JCPsis patients. The results suggest that intestinal microbiota might be more sensitive to exposure to environmental allergens than expected from the results of general culture method studies. Stabilization of intestinal microbiota by selected probiotic strains such as LGG and TMC0356 could be beneficial to homeostasis of the intestinal microbiota and useful in the management of JCPsis.