The impact of probiotics on metabolic health

A recent study by the Advanced Environmental Research Institute at the University of North Texas has highlighted the potential advantages of our probiotic formula, Ecologic® Barrier, in metabolic health. In this study Ecologic® Barrier was successful in alleviating the harmful impacts of air pollution and high-fat diets on lung health. Conducted in partnership with Winclove Probiotics, this research provides valuable insights not only into respiratory health but also into overall metabolic health, which is one of our key focus areas. 

The study and its metabolic health implications 

This research team investigated the combined impact of inhalation of diesel exhaust particulate matter (DEP) and the consumption of a high-fat diet. The study focused on lung protein pathways in a mouse model that are known to mediate SARS-CoV-2 infection.

The findings revealed a concerning interaction: the exposure to a high-fat diet exacerbated the negative effects of DEP on the expression of proteins such as TMPRSS2, ACE2 and furin, which are critical for the virus’s ability to enter cells. This highlights the underlying metabolic damage caused by the diet. 

The protective role of Ecologic® Barrier

The study also showed promising results with the use of Ecologic® Barrier. The probiotic formulation significantly reduced the expression of these proteins, suggesting a protective role against the heightened susceptibility to infections like SARS-CoV-2. Given that ACE2 and furin are also implicated in obesity and metabolic syndrome, these results suggest a broader impact of probiotic supplementation on metabolic health. 

Translating findings to human health 

At Winclove, we strive to minimize animal experiments, but an animal model was necessary for this research, as it is neither ethically nor practically feasible to conduct in humans at this stage. This study addresses important knowledge gaps, particularly the interaction between high-fat diets, air pollution, and metabolic health.  While the mouse model offers valuable insights, it cannot fully capture the metabolic and immune complexity of humans.    

The broader impact on metabolic health 

Beyond its implications for immunity, this study raises important questions about the relationship between metabolic health and environmental factors. The increased expression of proteins linked to SARS-CoV-2 infection in response to a high-fat diet and pollution suggests that metabolic health is intricately connected to our environment. The gut-lung axis, a critical area of focus in this study, may play a significant role here, influencing conditions like obesity and metabolic syndrome. 

Conclusion 

This study represents an important step in our journey to develop effective, evidence-based probiotic solutions that address the multifaceted challenges of modern metabolic health. These findings highlight the potential of specially designed probiotics like Ecologic® Barrier in improving metabolic health, especially in populations exposed to high-fat diets and environmental pollutants.