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Lactobacillus Casei Pxn 37

Also known as: Lactobacillus casei PXN 37, L. casei PXN 37, Lactobacillus casei strain PXN 37

Overview

Lactobacillus casei PXN 37 is a specific probiotic strain belonging to the Lactobacillus casei species, commonly found in fermented dairy products and utilized as a dietary supplement to promote gut health. It is primarily used to modulate gut microbiota, improve gastrointestinal function, and potentially aid in conditions like functional constipation and antibiotic-associated diarrhea. This strain is often included in multi-strain probiotic formulations and is available in various forms such as capsules, yogurts, and sachets, with typical doses ranging from 10^8 to 10^9 CFU/day. Research on Lactobacillus casei PXN 37 is considered moderate, with most studies focusing on multi-strain probiotic mixtures rather than the single strain. Evidence is emerging but limited, with few high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing exclusively on PXN 37; most data come from studies of multi-strain probiotics including PXN 37.

Benefits

Some evidence suggests that Lactobacillus casei PXN 37, when part of multi-strain probiotics, may improve symptoms of functional constipation in children when combined with lactulose, although pooled results show no significant difference from placebo alone. Multi-strain probiotics including PXN 37 have also been associated with reduced antibiotic-associated diarrhea and improved gut microbiota balance. Secondary effects may include modulation of immune responses and enhancement of intestinal barrier function, inferred from general Lactobacillus casei research but not specifically PXN 37. The benefits have been mainly studied in pediatric populations with functional constipation and in adults for antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Effect sizes are modest and often not statistically significant when PXN 37 is studied alone; benefits are more apparent in multi-strain formulations, typically observed over weeks of supplementation.

How it works

Lactobacillus casei PXN 37 primarily works by modulating the composition of the gut microbiota and competitively excluding pathogens. It enhances mucosal barrier integrity and stimulates local immune responses. This probiotic acts primarily on the gastrointestinal tract, influencing microbial ecology and mucosal immunity. While the specific molecular targets for PXN 37 are not fully elucidated, general Lactobacillus casei strains interact with epithelial cells and immune cells to modulate cytokine production. As a live microorganism, it colonizes or transiently inhabits the gut rather than being absorbed systemically.

Side effects

Lactobacillus casei PXN 37 is generally regarded as safe with a long history of use in food and supplements. Common side effects are mild and include gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas in some individuals, occurring in less than 5% of users. No serious adverse events have been reported in high-quality trials. There are no significant drug interactions documented, but caution is advised in immunocompromised patients. Contraindications include severe immunodeficiency or critical illness, which may warrant caution. Pediatric use is common and generally safe; elderly and immunocompromised populations require clinical discretion. It is important to monitor for any adverse reactions, especially in vulnerable populations.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Lactobacillus casei PXN 37 is typically ≥1 × 10^8 CFU/day in studies. The optimal dosage ranges from 1 × 10^8 to 8.4 × 10^9 CFU/day depending on the formulation and indication. The maximum safe dose is not well-defined, but doses up to 10^10 CFU/day have been used without safety concerns. It is often administered daily, with or without food. It is available in capsules, yogurts, and sachets; the delivery form may affect viability and efficacy. Viability is maintained by proper storage, and acid resistance is important for survival through the stomach. No specific cofactors are required, but it may be combined with prebiotics for enhanced effect.

FAQs

Is Lactobacillus casei PXN 37 effective alone?

Evidence mainly supports its use in combination with other probiotic strains rather than as a single strain for optimal benefits.

Is it safe for children?

Yes, it has been studied in pediatric populations with no major safety concerns, but consult a pediatrician before use.

How soon can benefits be expected?

Typically, benefits may be observed within a few weeks of consistent use, but individual results may vary.

Can it replace antibiotics?

No, it may help reduce side effects of antibiotics but is not a substitute for prescribed antibiotic treatment.

Does it require refrigeration?

It depends on the formulation; some forms are shelf-stable, while others require refrigeration to maintain viability.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5563334/ – This systematic review included RCTs on children with functional constipation and found that multi-strain probiotics, including Lactobacillus casei PXN 37, showed no significant improvement over placebo alone. The probiotics were used as adjuncts to lactulose in some studies. The review was limited by the small number of studies with PXN 37 and heterogeneity in probiotic strains and doses.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2018.00124/full – This meta-analysis of RCTs on various Lactobacillus strains examined adults at risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. It found that multi-strain probiotics, including PXN 37-containing mixtures, reduced antibiotic-associated diarrhea, while single strains like L. casei DG showed no significant effect. The study acknowledges that strain-specific effects are difficult to isolate due to the use of multi-strain formulations.
https://www.worldgastroenterology.org/UserFiles/file/guidelines/probiotics-and-prebiotics-english-2023.pdf – This systematic review and guideline update by the World Gastroenterology Organisation included various populations, including children with gastroenteritis. It noted that Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG is strongly supported, while PXN 37 is less studied but included in multi-strain products with potential benefits. The recommendations are based on broader Lactobacillus data due to limited direct evidence for PXN 37.
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/24/4/3081 – This article discusses the potential of probiotics, including Lactobacillus strains, to modulate the gut microbiota and improve various health outcomes. It highlights the importance of strain-specific effects and the need for well-designed clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy of different probiotic strains. The review emphasizes the role of probiotics in maintaining gut health and preventing disease.
https://www.pnfs.or.kr/journal/view.html?vmd=Full – This study investigates the effects of Lactobacillus casei on immune function and gut health. The research suggests that certain strains of Lactobacillus casei can enhance immune responses and improve gut barrier function. The findings contribute to the understanding of the mechanisms by which probiotics can promote overall health and well-being.