Abstract

REYES ESPARZA, Jorge A.  and  RODRIGUEZ FRAGOSO, Lourdes. The probiotics: how a mixture of microorganisms do a great job?. Rev. mex. cienc. farm [online]. 2012, vol.43, n.1, pp.7-17. ISSN 1870-0195.

Probiotics are a mix of live microorganisms which when are administered in adequate amounts provide or generate beneficial effects on host health. Probiotics contain non-pathogenic microorganisms that are resistant to cooking and manufacturing processes, and are tolerated by the intestinal immune system. The microorganism-host symbiosis occurs throughout life and should be a balance between them, but when this do not occur leading to the development of a disorder or disease. The mechanism of action for probiotics includes antibacterial activity, protection of the muco-epithelial barrier, detoxification and modulation of local and systemic immune response. This review describes the mechanism of action and show evidence that they could be effective as prophylaxis or treatment of certain diseases. The information available shows that probiotics have the potential to be used in a variety of diseases.

Keywords : probiotics; microorganism; symbiosis; immune system; muco-epithelial barrier.