Abstract
Abstract Microorganisms can evade the immune response via induction of regulatory cells, and can prevent the development of various autoimmune diseases. Probiotics, including Lactobacilli, are beneficial bacteria that play an important role in the immune system development. The goal of this study was to test whether gavaging (NZBxNZW)F1 (BWF1) lupus-prone mice with Lactobacilli weekly could control lupus development and identify the mechanisms mediating protection. BWF1 mice fed with Lactobacilli starting before disease onset exhibited a delay in lupus onset indicated by decreased severity and increased survival. This protection was associated with an increase in the percentage of CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory cells and IL-10 production. Moreover, T cells from Lactobacilli-fed BWF1 mice transferred some protection when injected into young BWF1 mice. More importantly, mice that were fed after disease onset remained stable for several months and exhibited a delay in disease progression and an increase in survival. Regular feeding of Lactobacilli appears, therefore, to delay lupus progression via regulatory cell induction and possibly IL-10 production. Altogether, these data indicate that the use of probiotics may be a viable strategy for controlling disease development and progression in patients with lupus, i.e., extending the length of remission and reducing flare frequency. Funded by the Lupus Research Institute.
Published Version
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