Chapters authored
Probiotic Bacteria in Microbiome against Allergy
According to the World Allergy Organization (WAO), approximately 20% of the global population suffers from allergies. As per ongoing investigations, their pervasiveness is expanding comprehensively. Allergic diseases are significant because of the high prevalence and constant increase in their costs and adverse effects on human life. Probiotics are proposed as an intervention for the prevention and treatment of allergic diseases. Various mechanisms are considered for the anti-allergic effects of probiotic properties, like detecting related molecular patterns, including DNA motifs or lipopolysaccharides (LPS) of the bacteria, through interaction with host immune systems by Toll-like receptors. In this chapter, the microbiome, allergy, and the role of immunomodulatory probiotics against allergy are discussed.
Part of the book: Human Microbiome
Functional Foods and Antioxidant Effects: Emphasizing the Role of Probiotics
Probiotics are host-compatible microorganisms that can optimally alter the balance of intestinal microflora, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, improve digestion, and increase the body\'s resistance by strengthening the immune system. Studies show that probiotics have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are compounds that reduce the risk of various cancers and diseases. These compounds, in fact, inhibit the activity of free radicals and prevent their oxidation. By inactivation of free radicals, the body cells are protected from the destructive effects of these compounds. Oxidative stress is a condition that occurs as a result of disturbing the antioxidant-prooxidant balance in the cell, which eventually leads to apoptosis and cell death. Consumption of probiotic strains with antioxidant activity can benefit human health by reducing oxidative damage. Since the use of probiotics helps hemostasis, improves immune responses, and prevents many disorders caused by oxidation in the host, in this chapter, we discuss the antioxidant effects of probiotics as functional foods.
Part of the book: Current Topics in Functional Food