Bifidobacterium plantarum LP299v
Also known as: Lactobacillus plantarum 299v, Lp299v, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP299v
Overview
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP299v, formerly known as Lactobacillus plantarum 299v, is a well-researched probiotic bacterial strain. It is naturally found in fermented foods and the human gastrointestinal tract, and is widely used as a dietary supplement. This strain is recognized for its ability to survive gastric transit and adhere to the intestinal mucosa, allowing it to exert beneficial effects within the gut and systemically. LP299v is primarily utilized for improving gut health, enhancing nutrient absorption, particularly iron, and modulating immune and inflammatory responses. Research on LP299v is extensive, with numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting its efficacy in specific applications, particularly for iron absorption. The evidence quality ranges from moderate to high for iron absorption and is emerging for its anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits.
Benefits
Lp299v offers several evidence-based benefits. A systematic review and meta-analysis of eight studies (N=950) demonstrated that Lp299v supplementation significantly increased iron absorption in humans, with a moderate effect size (standardized mean difference 0.55, 95% CI 0.22–0.88, p=0.001). However, improvements in serum iron or other iron status markers were less consistently observed, indicating a need for further research in this area. Emerging evidence suggests anti-inflammatory effects; in men with stable coronary artery disease (CAD), Lp299v supplementation improved vascular endothelial function and reduced inflammatory gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). This indicates potential systemic anti-inflammatory benefits and a role in cardiovascular health by modulating immune pathways, such as downregulating IL-1β and toll-like receptor signaling, and enhancing regulatory T-cell activity. Additionally, Lp299v combined with low doses of iron, ascorbic acid, and folic acid has been studied for further enhancing iron status, though more detailed outcomes are needed.
How it works
Lp299v exerts its effects through several mechanisms. It adheres to the intestinal mucosa, which helps to enhance gut barrier function and competitively exclude pathogenic microorganisms. The strain modulates immune responses by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, and inhibiting toll-like receptor signaling pathways, while simultaneously increasing the activity of regulatory T-cells. This contributes to its observed anti-inflammatory effects. Lp299v also improves iron absorption, likely by modifying the gut microbiota composition, lowering the gut pH, and increasing the solubility and uptake of iron within the intestine. Its influence on systemic inflammation is partly attributed to changes in circulating metabolites that affect gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells.
Side effects
Lp299v is generally considered safe for consumption, with clinical trials in adults reporting no significant adverse effects. Any side effects are typically rare and mild, primarily involving transient gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas. There are no documented significant drug interactions or contraindications based on high-quality studies. While Lp299v has a favorable safety profile in healthy adults, its safety in specific populations, such as pregnant women or immunocompromised individuals, requires further dedicated research. However, no major safety concerns have been raised to date for these groups. Overall, Lp299v is well-tolerated at commonly recommended dosages.
Dosage
Effective dosages of Lp299v in clinical studies typically range from 10^9 to 10^10 colony-forming units (CFU) per day. For optimizing iron absorption benefits, Lp299v is often administered in conjunction with iron supplements or dietary iron sources. While specific guidelines regarding timing relative to meals can vary, co-administration with iron and ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) may enhance its beneficial effects on iron uptake. There is no established maximum safe dose for Lp299v; however, the doses used in clinical trials have consistently demonstrated good tolerability and safety. Users should follow product-specific instructions or consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dosage recommendations.
FAQs
Is Lp299v effective for iron deficiency anemia?
Lp299v significantly improves iron absorption, but evidence for improving overall iron status markers in individuals with iron deficiency anemia is still limited. More research is needed in high-risk populations to confirm its direct impact on anemia.
Can Lp299v reduce inflammation?
Yes, particularly in the context of cardiovascular disease, Lp299v has shown anti-inflammatory effects at a molecular level, including improving endothelial function and reducing inflammatory gene expression.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Current evidence supports the long-term safety of Lp299v in adults, with no serious adverse events reported in studies. It is generally well-tolerated.
Should it be taken with iron supplements?
Combining Lp299v with iron supplements and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) may optimize its benefits for iron absorption, as suggested by some research.
Research Sources
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-83252-7 – This study investigated the effects of Lp299v in men with stable coronary artery disease. It found that Lp299v improved vascular endothelial function and reduced inflammatory gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, suggesting systemic anti-inflammatory benefits and potential modulation of immune pathways relevant to cardiovascular health.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31816981/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of eight studies (N=950) concluded that Lp299v supplementation significantly increased iron absorption in humans. However, it noted that evidence for consistent improvements in serum iron or other iron status markers was less robust, highlighting heterogeneity in study populations and outcomes.
- https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aogs.14153 – This research explored the synergistic effects of Lp299v when combined with low doses of iron, ascorbic acid, and folic acid. It indicated beneficial effects on iron status markers, suggesting that this combination could further enhance iron repletion, though detailed outcomes and statistical significance require further confirmation.
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