multi-species concept

How the targeted combination of different bacterial cultures influences the effect of a preparation

Various factors play a role in the effectiveness of probiotics. In addition to the potency of a preparation, which is measured in colony forming units (CFUs), the specific composition is a decisive criterion.

The effect of probiotics is strain-specific, which means that each probiotic bacterium has its own function. Therefore, a combination of different strains can increase effectiveness.

The health-promoting effect benefits not only from the diversity of the composition, but also from synergy effects that occur between the individual cultures. Modern probiotic preparations use this multi-species concept to achieve increased effectiveness.

With the right composition, the different probiotic bacterial strains can interact with each other, complement each other optimally and enhance the desired effect. The following synergistic effects are particularly desirable.

1. Successful settlement

  • Through different strains with different characteristics.

  • Formation of a probiotic niche – for example by creating an optimal pH value, creating an anaerobic environment and improved adhesion in the intestine.

2. Health-promoting effect

The probiotic effect is increased by the combination of various strain-specific properties:

  • Additive effect - colonization of several probiotic niches.

  • Synergistic effect – total probiotic effect is greater than the sum of the properties of individual strains.

  • Positive interactions – increased activity due to symbiosis through exchange of nutrients.

Source:

Probiotic Evolution: From a Simple Microorganism Strain to a Multi-Species Concept

HM Timmerman, LEM Niers, MO Hoekstra, GT Rijkers

Hippokrates Verlag in MVS Medizinverlage Stuttgart GmbH & Co. KG

Dr. Adrian Weingart
Dr. Adrian Weingart

CPO & Co-Founder

Dr. Adrian Weingart
Dr. Adrian Weingart

CPO & Co-Founder