From the Guidelines
Bacillus subtilis can reduce levels of IL-1β and IL-18 in the body, as evidenced by its anti-inflammatory effects and ability to modulate the immune system. Bacillus subtilis is a probiotic bacteria that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. When consumed regularly, it can help modulate the immune system and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β and IL-18. To potentially see these effects, one could take a Bacillus subtilis probiotic supplement daily, typically containing 1-10 billion CFU (colony forming units) per dose. These are available over-the-counter in capsule or powder form. It's best to follow the dosage instructions on the specific product. The mechanism behind this effect involves B. subtilis interacting with immune cells in the gut, promoting regulatory T cells and inhibiting the activation of inflammasomes that produce IL-1β and IL-18, as seen in studies such as 1. This helps create a more balanced inflammatory response in the body. Some key points to consider:
- Bacillus subtilis has anti-inflammatory effects and can modulate the immune system
- It can reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β and IL-18
- The mechanism involves interaction with immune cells in the gut and promotion of regulatory T cells
- Consistent use over several weeks may be necessary to see noticeable changes in inflammatory markers
- As with any supplement, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting, especially for those with existing health conditions or taking medications, as noted in studies such as 1. It's also important to note that while B. subtilis can have these effects, results may vary between individuals. Some studies, such as 1, have shown that other factors like the gut-brain axis and microbiota composition can also play a role in modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation. However, based on the most recent and highest quality study, Bacillus subtilis is a promising option for reducing IL-1β and IL-18 levels, as seen in 1.
From the Research
Reduction of Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and Interleukin-18 (IL-18) by Bacillus subtilis
- The study 2 found that oral administration of Bacillus subtilis PB6 significantly lowered the plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1beta, in a rat model of colitis.
- However, the study 3 showed that hydrochloric acid-treated Bacillus subtilis ghosts induced IL-1 beta in murine macrophage, suggesting that the treatment of Bacillus subtilis can affect its ability to reduce IL-1β.
- The study 4 used a fragment of human IL-1β as an adjuvant in recombinant Bacillus subtilis spores, which elicited an immune response in orally immunized mice, but did not directly investigate the reduction of IL-1β.
- The study 5 found that supplementation with Bacillus subtilis CU1 resulted in a significant increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1beta, in LPS-stimulated whole blood, but also reduced basal levels of several serum cytokines, including IL-10 and TNF-alpha, in the elderly subgroup.
- There is no direct evidence from the studies 2, 3, 4, or 5 that Bacillus subtilis reduces IL-18, but the study 6 mentioned that caspase-1 inhibitors can prevent the processing and release of active forms of IL-1beta and IL-18.
Mechanism of Action
- The study 2 suggested that Bacillus subtilis PB6 secretes surfactins, which inhibit phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and downregulate the inflammatory response by regulating the eicosanoid and cytokine pathways.
- The study 6 discussed various strategies for reducing IL-1 activity, including the use of caspase-1 inhibitors, which can prevent the processing and release of active forms of IL-1beta and IL-18.