Unlocking the potential of Bacillus clausii: Breakthroughs and innovations

Probiotics have emerged as a pivotal adjunctive therapy for managing acute diarrhea. Recent advancements have unveiled the diverse utility of these bioactive agents beyond solely addressing diarrhea. Bacillus clausii (B. clausii), a widely utilized probiotic for acute diarrhea, particularly in pediatric cases, boasts multiple attributes that underpin its current applications and prospects. This article aims to delve into Bacillus clausii's physiological, probiotic, and immunomodulatory characteristics, shedding light on its potential indications through an exploration of ongoing research.

Physiological Aspects

B. clausii strains possess a valuable array of properties, including tolerance to heat, acid, and bile salts, enhancement of gut barrier function, and vitamin synthesis. Its spores exhibit resistance to degradation in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids, hinting a potential for effective gut colonization.^1,2

In riboflavin-depleted environments such as colon cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, B. clausii O/C, N/R, SIN, and T, produce adequate riboflavin, which is vital due to the host's inability to synthesize this nutrient.¹ A novel B.clausii strain has been studied to stimulate pantothenic acid and cobalamin production. Recent research suggests that pantothenic acid may play a role in stimulating the immune system within the context of anticancer treatments. Furthermore, the same strain revealed Beta galactosidase activity, an enzyme involved in lactose hydrolysis. This promises a potential intervention for patients with lactose intolerance. ³

The antimicrobial potential of Bacillus clausii underscores its significance in clinical settings. Studies have demonstrated its capability to produce antimicrobial peptides that can inhibit growth of Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, Shigella flexneri, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Enterococcus faecalis, as well as inhibit cytotoxic activity of Clostridium difficile, thereby exerting a protective effect on the gut microbiota. Its role in adjunct treatment of various infectious diarrhea and preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea further highlights its antimicrobial potential.¹

Probiotic and Immunomodulatory Properties

Preclinical investigations delve into various mechanisms of B. clausii. It fortifies gut barrier integrity, exhibits protective actions against rotavirus infections, and stimulates the synthesis of antimicrobial peptides, promoting gut health and combating pediatric viral acute gastroenteritis. Moreover, it influences gene expression, impacting immunity, inflammation, and cell signaling. ¹

In various medical contexts, B. clausii showcases potential therapeutic benefits. Patients surviving pancreatic adenocarcinoma for over five years exhibit a microbiome containing B. clausii, potentially linked to improved survival. ¹

In mouse models for asthma, B. clausii administration reduced the pro inflammatory cells and cytokines as well as reduced airway epithelium inflammation, suggesting its potential in managing asthma. Administering B. clausii in ulcerative colitis and Schistosomiasis animal models ameliorates symptoms, alters gut bacteria, decreases parasite load, and promotes anti-inflammatory responses. While animal models for uremia showed a decrease in serum creatinine, urea and malondialdehyde levels after treatment with B. clausii spores. In addition, some studies noted that patients with chronic renal failure showed a decrease in serum urea levels when given probiotics. These findings suggest its possible application for patients with chronic renal disease.^1,2

Additionally, pre-administration of B. clausii spores before infection with E. coli mitigates intestinal damage and inflammation, enhancing mucosal integrity, mucus production, and conferring protective effects on the spleen and lymph nodes. ^1,2

Clinical application and research

Bacillus clausii (Probicosta) is packed with 2 billion CFU indicated as an adjunct in the treatment of acute viral diarrhea for pediatric patients. Multiple studies have shown the efficacy of Bacillus clausii in shortening duration of diarrhea specifically in rotaviral infection in pediatric population.¹ Apart from being recognized as an adjunct treatment for acute diarrhea, ongoing clinical research continues to investigate the potential indications of Bacillus clausii.

One study included 80 individuals with recurrent aphthous ulcers and oral Candidiasis. The study demonstrated the efficacy and rapidity of response to oral Bacillus clausii as an adjuvant in treating aphthous ulcer and oral candidiasis.⁴ A separate study among pediatric patients with allergic rhinitis who were given intranasal B. clausii spores demonstrated a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines alongside elevated levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines. This suggests the potential of this intervention as a supplementary approach in management.¹