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Lactococcus Cremoris

Also known as: Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris, L. lactis subsp. cremoris, Lactococcus cremoris

Overview

*Lactococcus lactis* subsp. *cremoris* is a subspecies of *Lactococcus lactis*, a bacterium commonly found in dairy products and used as a starter culture in cheese and butter production. It has evolved from plant isolates and adapted to a dairy environment, showing significant genetic changes, particularly in carbohydrate metabolism genes. Primarily used as a probiotic supplement to improve gastrointestinal health and as a starter culture in dairy fermentation, this subspecies is known for its ability to produce lactic acid and its potential health benefits, particularly in gut health and immune system modulation. Research is advancing, focusing on its genetic makeup, mechanisms of action, and clinical benefits. Evidence is largely based on animal studies and some human clinical trials, with a need for more comprehensive systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

Benefits

*Lactococcus lactis* subsp. *cremoris* has shown potential benefits for gastrointestinal health. A dose-escalation study in healthy subjects showed that ingestion of 1 × 10^7 CFU per day significantly increased the frequency of defecation and stool volume. In a mouse model of chronic colitis, supplementation reduced disease activity and protected against tissue injury in a TLR2-dependent manner. The culture supernatant of *L. lactis* subsp. *cremoris* promoted cell proliferation and accelerated epithelial migration in cultured epithelial cells and ex vivo organoids, also in a TLR2-dependent manner. These benefits have been primarily observed in animal models and healthy human subjects, highlighting the need for studies in specific populations, such as those with gastrointestinal disorders.

How it works

*Lactococcus lactis* subsp. *cremoris* interacts with the host through the TLR2 signaling pathway, which is crucial for its beneficial effects on the intestine. It induces the expression of genes associated with host tissue homeostasis and response to injury, including the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. It influences the gut microbiota and epithelial cells, promoting cytoprotection and cell proliferation. The culture supernatant accelerates epithelial migration and wound healing in a TLR2-dependent manner. TLR2 and its adaptor protein MyD88 are key molecular targets for the beneficial effects of *L. lactis* subsp. *cremoris*.

Side effects

*Lactococcus lactis* subsp. *cremoris* is generally considered safe for consumption, as it is a common component of dairy products and has been used in probiotic supplements without significant adverse effects reported. There is limited data on common side effects specifically for *L. lactis* subsp. *cremoris*, but probiotics in general are well-tolerated. No specific uncommon or rare side effects have been reported in the available studies. There is no significant evidence of drug interactions, but caution should be exercised in individuals with compromised immune systems or those taking immunosuppressive medications. It is generally contraindicated in individuals with severe immune deficiencies or those who are critically ill. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using any probiotic supplement.

Dosage

A dose of 1 × 10^7 CFU per day has been shown to improve defecation in healthy subjects. The optimal dosage range is not well-defined, but doses between 1 × 10^7 to 2 × 10^7 CFU per day have been studied. There is no established maximum safe dose, but higher doses have not been associated with adverse effects in the available studies. No specific timing recommendations are available, but it is generally advised to take probiotics with meals to enhance survival and colonization. It is available in capsule or powder form, with no specific recommendations on the best form. The bioavailability can be influenced by the formulation and the presence of prebiotics, but specific data is limited.

FAQs

How long does it take to see benefits?

Benefits can be observed within a few weeks, as seen in the human dose-escalation study. Individual results may vary.

Is it safe for everyone?

Generally safe, but individuals with compromised immune systems should consult healthcare providers before use.

When should I take it?

It is advised to take it with meals to enhance survival and colonization in the gut.

What can I expect?

Potential improvements in gastrointestinal health, including increased defecation frequency and stool volume, and potential protection against gut injury.

Is it a cure for all gastrointestinal issues?

No, it is a supplement that may help improve certain aspects of gastrointestinal health but is not a cure for all conditions.

Research Sources

https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.12.02.471025v1.full – This study found that *L. lactis* subsp. *cremoris* supplementation reduced disease activity and protected against tissue injury in a TLR2-dependent manner in a mouse model of chronic colitis. The culture supernatant also promoted cell proliferation and accelerated epithelial migration, suggesting a potential mechanism for gut health benefits.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32010540/ – A human dose-escalation study showed that intake of at least 1 × 10^7 CFU of *L. lactis* subsp. *cremoris* FC improved defecation frequency and stool volume in healthy subjects. This suggests a potential benefit for improving bowel regularity.
https://www.microbiologyresearch.org/content/journal/ijsem/10.1099/ijsem.0.004727 – This study provides a detailed genomic comparison of *L. lactis* strains, revealing distinct genetic features of *L. lactis* subsp. *cremoris* adapted to a dairy environment. These adaptations include the loss of genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, reflecting its specialized role in dairy fermentation.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2019.00004/full – This article discusses the importance of *Lactococcus* species in the dairy industry and their potential probiotic properties. It highlights the need for further research to fully understand the mechanisms of action and clinical benefits of *Lactococcus* strains, including *L. lactis* subsp. *cremoris*.
https://hsls.libguides.com/Embase-search-filters/systematic-reviews – This link provides guidance on conducting systematic reviews using Embase, a biomedical database. While not a study on *L. lactis* subsp. *cremoris* itself, it is a resource for identifying and synthesizing evidence on the topic.