Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus is considered as potential probiotic bacteria found in our intestines. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can offer health benefits when consumed. Probiotics generally recognised as safe by the WHO for human consumption. It plays therapeutic role and provides various health benefits. It belongs to the genus Lactobacillus, that produce lactic acid, which inhibits pathogenic organisms through competitive exclusion. Lactobacillus are small, slender, nonmotile, Gram-positive bacilli often found in chains. Some species of Lactobacillus are commonly used as probiotics, particularly for conditions like diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colic in infants, and other stomach and bowel-related ailments.

Earlier it was known as Lactobacillus rhamnosus but as of April 2020, it is officially classified as Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (Zheng J et al., 2020). L.rhamnosus uniquely adapted to survive in acidic and basic conditions within the body and can also adhere to and colonize the intestinal walls. Such characteristics give L. rhamnosus a better chance of survival, so it may offer longer-term benefits. There are many different strains of L.rhamnosus and each with different characteristics. These strains available as a probiotic supplement and often added to yogurts, cheeses, milk, and other dairy products to boost probiotic content.

Physiological, Morphological, and General Characteristics of Lactobacillus rhamnosus

A. Physiological Characteristics: L. rhamnosus follow homofermentative pathway and primarily produces lactic acid from glucose fermentation, which is a key factor in its probiotic benefits. It is facultative anaerobic, so it can grow in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, though it prefers anaerobic environments. The optimal growth temperature for L. rhamnosus is around 37°C, which is conducive to its colonization in the human body. It is considered as acidophilic and It can survive in low pH environments, such as the stomach, which is crucial for its survival through the gastrointestinal tract and effectiveness as a probiotic. It is commonly cultured in de Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe (MRS) broth, which supports its nutritional needs and promotes robust growth.

B. Morphological Characteristics: L.rhamnosus are Gram positive, rod shaped typically small and slender. They often appear in chains, which is a common arrangement for many Lactobacillus species. Colonies of L. rhamnosus on solid media like MRS agar are typically smooth, convex, and translucent, especially when young. L.rhamnosus are non – motile and does not have the means to move independently, such as flagella.

C. General Characteristics: L.rhamnosus is a part of the normal microbiota in the human mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and female genital tract. It is also found in fermented foods, particularly in dairy products like yogurt and semi-hard cheeses. It has very good probiotic properties and Known for supporting digestive and immune health, and female intimate health by inhibiting pathogenic bacteria and modulating immune responses. The strains of L. rhamnosus are generally used in treating conditions like diarrhoea, IBS, and colic in infants, as well as supporting general digestion and immune function. It reproduces by binary fission and does not form spores, which is typical of the Lactobacillus genus.

Potential Health Benefits and uses of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus

L. rhamnosus has numerous potential benefits and uses for digestive system, as well as other areas of health.

A. Female Intimate Health:

Colonization of the Vaginal Tract: Certain strains of L. rhamnosus colonize primarily in the vaginal tract, supporting vaginal health (DeAlberti D et al., 2015). These strains adhere to the vaginal lining, displacing and preventing the adhesion of pathogens, thus protecting against infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV) (Reid et al., 1995; Ewid et al., 2002).

B. Digestive and Immune Health:

L.rhamnosus through production of antimicrobial Substances, helps alleviate diarrhoea associated with travel or antibiotic use (Vanderhoof J.A. et al., 1999). It also helps in reduction of Inflammatory Signalling in the Intestines. It reduces the frequency of IBS and IBD-related abdominal pain (Lin et al., 2009). They provide support to the immune System Modulation through increases the action of T-lymphocytes and anti-inflammatory cytokines (Schultz M. et al., 2003).

Some other important benefits are:

  • May Prevent and Treat diarrhoea: Diarrhoea is a common issue sometimes caused by bacterial infection. Persistent diarrhoea can cause fluid loss, which may lead to dehydration. Studies show that L. rhamnosus may help prevent or treat various types of diarrhoea. L. rhamnosus may protect against antibiotic-related diarrhoea. For instance, a review of 12 studies in 1,499 people found that supplementing with a specific strain called L. rhamnosus GG reduced the risk of antibiotic-related diarrhoea from 22.4% to 12.3%. L. rhamnosus may protect against various other types of diarrhoea, such as traveller’s diarrhoea, acute watery diarrhoea, and acute gastroenteritis-related diarrhoea.
  • May Relieve IBS Symptoms: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects 9–23% of adults worldwide. IBS causes uncomfortable symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and unusual bowel movements .Interestingly, there may be a link between IBS and changes in the body’s natural gut flora. For instance, people with IBS may have fewer Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacteria but more potentially harmful Clostridium, Streptococcus, and E.coli. Additionally, animal studies have found that L. rhamnosus strains may strengthen gut barriers, which may help relieve IBS symptoms.
  • Aids Gut Health: L. rhamnosus can prevent Candida albicans, a type of harmful bacteria, from colonizing your intestinal walls. L. rhamnosus not only prevents bad bacteria from colonizing but also encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria, such as Bacteroides, Clostridia, and bifidobacteria. L.rhamnosus helps increase the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate. In addition, studies link SCFAs to various benefits, including protection against colon cancer, weight loss, and lower blood sugar levels.
  • May Protect Against Cavities: Dental cavities are formed by harmful bacteria in mouth. These bacteria produce acids that break down enamel, or the outer layer of your teeth. Probiotic bacteria like L. rhamnosus have antimicrobial properties, which may help fight these harmful bacteria. In one study, 594 children received either regular milk or milk containing L. rhamnosus GG for 5 days per week. After 7 months, children in the probiotic group had fewer cavities and a lower number of potentially harmful bacteria than children in the regular-milk group.
  • May Help Prevent UTIs: A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can happen anywhere along your urinary tract, including your kidneys, bladder, and urethra. It is much more common in women and typically caused by two strains of bacteria — Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. Some studies indicate that probiotic bacteria, including certain strains of L. rhamnosus, may prevent UTIs by killing harmful bacteria and restoring vaginal flora. For instance, an analysis of 5 studies in 294 women found that several Lactobacillus bacteria, including L. rhamnosus, were safe and effective at preventing UTIs. However, not all L. rhamnosus strains may help treat UTIs
  • Mental Health: Gut-Brain Axis: Emerging research suggests that L. rhamnosus may have a positive impact on mental health through the gut-brain axis, potentially reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
  • May promote weight loss: L. rhamnosus may suppress appetite and food cravings, especially in women.
  • May increase insulin sensitivity: Animal studies show that several L. rhamnosus strains may improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
  • May reduce blood cholesterol: One mouse study found that L. rhamnosus lowered blood cholesterol levels and had a similar effect on cholesterol metabolism as statins, a class of drugs that helps treat high cholesterol.
  • May fight allergies: L. rhamnosus strains may help prevent or relieve allergy symptoms by promoting the growth of friendly gut bacteria and suppressing the growth of harmful bacteria.
  • May help treat acne: In a small study in 20 adults, taking an L. rhamnosus SP1 supplement helped reduce the appearance of acne.

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Lacticaseibacillus Rhamnosus

Benefits of specific strains of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus reported by several researches.

  • Reduction of viral-associated pulmonary damage (L. rhamnosus CRL1505)
  • Prevention and reduction of severity of atopic dermatitis in children (L. rhamnosus GG).
  • Reduction of risk for developing allergic disease (L. rhamnosus GG), (L. rhamnosus HN001; anti-diabetic potential (various strains from human infant faecal samples).
  • Prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis in new-borns (L. rhamnosus GG).
  • Prevention or treatment of bacterial vaginosis (L. rhamnosus GR-1).
  • Aid in weight loss of obese women (L. rhamnosus CGMCC1.3724).
  • Treatment of acute gastroenteritis in children (L. rhamnosus GG)
  • Reduction of risk for rhinovirus infections in preterm infants (L. rhamnosus GG and L. rhamnosus ATCC 53103).
  • Protection of human colonic muscle from lipopolysaccharide-induced damage (L. rhamnosus GG).

Common Applications of Products Containing Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus

L. rhamnosus is a versatile probiotic bacterium used in a variety of products aimed at supporting different aspects of health. L. rhamnosus found in a variety of applications aimed at supporting digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being. Its versatility allows it to be included in dietary supplements, functional foods, beverages, infant formulas, nutritional bars, skin care products, and animal feed, providing benefits across different health areas. Here are some generic applications of products containing L. rhamnosus as an active ingredient:

Dietary Supplements:

  • Probiotic Capsules and Tablets: L. rhamnosus is often formulated into capsules and tablets to support gut health, boost immune function, and manage conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and antibiotic-associated diarrhoea.
  • Probiotic Powders and Sachet: These are convenient forms for mixing into food or beverages, designed to deliver a high dose of probiotics to improve digestive health.

Functional Foods:

  • Probiotic Yogurts: Medicinal yogurts and other dairy products enriched with L. rhamnosus are used to support digestive and immune health.
  • Fermented Dairy Products: Such as kefir and cheese, which include L. rhamnosus to promote gut health and offer additional nutritional benefits.

    • Beverages:

  • Probiotic drinks: These can range from fermented juices to probiotic-infused water, designed to deliver probiotics in a convenient liquid form, supporting hydration and gut health.
  • Probiotic Smoothies: Often fortified with L. rhamnosus to provide both nutritional value and probiotic benefits in a tasty, drinkable format.
  • Infant Formulas: Probiotic-Enhanced Infant Formulas include L. rhamnosus to support the developing digestive system and immune health of infants.
  • Nutritional Bars: Probiotic Snack Bars: Contain L. rhamnosus to provide a convenient, onthe-go option for maintaining gut health and overall wellness.

Therapeutic Applications: Gastrointestinal Disorders: L.rhamnosus is used in the management of gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and Clostridium difficile infection. It helps restore gut microbiota balance and reduce inflammation.

Prevention of Traveler’s Diarrhea: Probiotic formulations containing L.rhamnosus are recommended for preventing traveler’s diarrhoea by enhancing gut health and immunity.

Support During Antibiotic Therapy: Co-administration of L. rhamnosus with antibiotics can prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhoea and maintain gut microbiota balance.

Topical Applications: Probiotic Skin Care Products: Utilize L. rhamnosus to support skin health, enhance the skin’s barrier function, and maintain a balanced skin microbiome.

Animal Feed: Probiotic Supplements for Pets: Designed to improve the gut health and immune function of pets by incorporating L. rhamnosus into their diets.

Application of Lactobacillus rhamnosus in Agriculture

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, a probiotic bacterium commonly associated with human health, also has significant applications in agriculture. Its beneficial properties can be harnessed to improve plant health, enhance soil quality, and promote the well-being of livestock. Here are some of the key agricultural applications of L. rhamnosus:

Soil Health and Fertility:

  • Soil Microbiota Balance: L. rhamnosus can be introduced into soil to promote a balanced microbial environment. It helps suppress harmful pathogens and supports the growth of beneficial microorganisms.
  • Nutrient Cycling: By breaking down organic matter and aiding in nutrient cycling, this probiotic enhances soil fertility and structure, leading to healthier plants.

Plant Growth Promotion:

  • Biofertilizers: Formulations containing L. rhamnosus can be used as biofertilizers to promote plant growth. It helps improve nutrient uptake, enhances root development, and increases crop yields.
  • Seed Treatment: Coating seeds with L. rhamnosus can protect them from soil-borne pathogens, improve germination rates, and support early plant growth.

Disease Control:

  • Biocontrol Agents: L. rhamnosus can act as a biocontrol agent against plant pathogens. It produces antimicrobial substances that inhibit the growth of harmful fungi and bacteria, reducing the incidence of plant diseases.
  • Foliar Sprays: Applying L. rhamnosus as a foliar spray can help protect plants from foliar diseases by enhancing the plant’s natural defences and inhibiting pathogen colonization.

Composting:Adding L. rhamnosus to compost piles accelerates the decomposition process and improves the quality of the compost. It helps break down organic materials more efficiently, resulting in nutrient-rich compost for soil amendment.

Livestock Health:

  • Probiotic Feed Additives: L. rhamnosus is included in probiotic supplements for livestock to improve gut health, enhance digestion, and boost immune function. It helps in maintaining a healthy gut microbiota, reducing the need for antibiotics.
  • Reduction of Pathogens: Supplementing animal feed with L. rhamnosus can reduce the colonization of harmful pathogens in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby improving overall animal health and reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Aquaculture: Fish and Shrimp Farming: In aquaculture, L. rhamnosus is used to improve water quality and promote the health of fish and shrimp. It helps control pathogenic bacteria in the water and supports the digestive health of aquatic animals.

Silage Fermentation: Improvement of Silage Quality:L. rhamnosus can be used in the fermentation process of silage, enhancing its quality by ensuring proper fermentation, reducing spoilage, and increasing the nutritional value of the silage.

Bioremediation: Pollutant Degradation:L. rhamnosus can be employed in bioremediation efforts to degrade environmental pollutants. Its ability to break down organic compounds makes it useful in cleaning up contaminated soils and water.

Application of Lactobacillus rhamnosus in Cosmetics

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, renowned for its health benefits, also has significant applications in the cosmetic industry. Its probiotic properties can enhance skin health, protect against pathogens, and improve the overall efficacy of skincare products. Here are the key applications of L. rhamnosus in cosmetics:

Skin Barrier Function:

  • Enhancing Skin Barrier: L. rhamnosus can strengthen the skin's barrier function, reducing trans epidermal water loss and protecting against environmental irritants.
  • Hydration: By supporting the skin's natural barrier, this probiotic helps maintain hydration and reduces dryness.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties:

  • Reducing Inflammation: L. rhamnosus has anti-inflammatory effects, making it beneficial for soothing irritated skin and reducing redness and swelling.
  • Calming Sensitive Skin: Products containing this probiotic are suitable for sensitive skin types, helping to calm and alleviate symptoms of conditions like rosacea and eczema.

Anti-Aging Benefits:

  • Antioxidant Properties: L. rhamnosus has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage, which contribute to aging.
  • Improving Skin Elasticity: Regular use of products containing this probiotic can improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Acne Treatment:

  • Balancing Skin Microbiota: L. rhamnosus helps maintain a balanced skin microbiome, reducing the proliferation of acne-causing bacteria.
  • Anti-Acne Formulations: It can be included in acne treatments to help clear the skin and prevent breakouts by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

Protection Against Pathogens:

  • Antimicrobial Effects: L. rhamnosus produces antimicrobial substances that can protect the skin from harmful pathogens, reducing the risk of infections.
  • Preservation of Cosmetic Products: The antimicrobial properties can also help in preserving cosmetic formulations, extending their shelf life.

Eczema and Dermatitis Relief:

  • Managing Eczema: Probiotic skincare products containing L. rhamnosus can help manage eczema by reducing inflammation and supporting the skin barrier.
  • Dermatitis: It is effective in alleviating symptoms of dermatitis, providing relief from itching and irritation.

Brightening and Even Skin Tone:

  • Brightening Formulations: L. rhamnosus can be included in brightening formulations to help achieve a more even skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation.
  • Reducing Dark Spots: It helps in minimizing dark spots and promoting a more uniform complexion.

Wound Healing:

  • Promoting Healing: L. rhamnosus can accelerate the healing of minor wounds and cuts by supporting the skin’s natural repair processes.
  • Scar Reduction: It may help in reducing the appearance of scars and improving overall skin texture.

Scalp and Hair Health:

  • Scalp Care: Probiotic shampoos and conditioners containing L. rhamnosus can help maintain a healthy scalp microbiota, reducing dandruff and irritation.
  • Hair Health: By promoting a healthy scalp environment, it supports overall hair health and vitality.

Antimicrobial and Antagonistic Activity of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Against Adverse Microorganisms.

L. rhamnosus is renowned for its antimicrobial properties and its ability to antagonize a variety of pathogenic microorganisms. This activity is largely due to the production of antimicrobial substances, competitive exclusion, and modulation of the host's immune response. Here’s an overview of the mechanisms and the range of microorganisms L. rhamnosus can act against:

Mechanisms of Antimicrobial Activity:

Production of Antimicrobial Substances:

  • Lactic Acid: Lowers the pH of the environment, inhibiting the growth of many pathogenic bacteria and fungi.
  • Bacteriocins: Proteinaceous toxins that inhibit the growth of closely related bacterial strains.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide: Has strong antimicrobial properties, especially against anaerobic bacteria.
  • Other Metabolites: Such as short-chain fatty acids and reuterin, which have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities.

Competitive Exclusion:

  • Adherence to Host Tissues: L. rhamnosus can adhere to the mucosal surfaces of the gastrointestinal and urogenital tracts, preventing pathogen attachment and colonization.
  • Nutrient Competition: By consuming available nutrients, it starves potential pathogens.

Modulation of Immune Response:

  • Stimulation of Host Immunity: Enhances the host's immune response by increasing the production of immunoglobulins and activating macrophages and dendritic cells.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Reduces inflammation, which can inhibit the growth of certain pathogens that thrive in inflamed tissues.

Antagonistic Activity Against Pathogens

  • Pathogenic Bacteria: L. rhamnosus produces lactic acid and bacteriocins that inhibit the growth of E. coli, including pathogenic strains like E. coli O157:H7. Through acid production and competitive exclusion, it can significantly reduce the colonization of Salmonella in the gut. Bacteriocins and other metabolites from L. rhamnosus inhibit the growth of S. aureus, including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). By producing antimicrobial compounds and competing for adhesion sites, L. rhamnosus helps prevent Clostridium difficile infection and recurrence. Lactic acid production and competitive exclusion help inhibit the colonization of Helicobactor pylori in the stomach.
  • Pathogenic Fungi: L. rhamnosus can inhibit the growth and biofilm formation of Candida albicans through lactic acid production and competitive exclusion. The production of antifungal compounds by L. rhamnosus can inhibit the growth of Aspergillus species.
  • Other Pathogens: Bacteriocins produced by L. rhamnosus are effective against Listeria, reducing its growth and potential for infection. It can inhibit pathogenic strains of Enterococcus, such as Enterococcus faecalis, through competitive exclusion and antimicrobial production.

Conclusion:

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, is a beneficial probiotic bacterium known for its ability to colonize the human gut and vaginal environment, as well as its presence in fermented foods. Its physiological and morphological traits, such as being a Gram-positive, rod-shaped, facultative anaerobe that forms chains, contribute to its effectiveness and versatility as a probiotic. Its health benefits, including enhancing digestive and immune health and supporting female intimate health, make it a valuable component of many probiotic formulations. It has diverse applications in the pharmaceutical industry, contributing to the management and prevention of various health conditions. Its role in supporting digestive health, enhancing immune function, promoting women's health, and benefiting skin and oral health makes it a valuable component in many pharmaceutical products. It also offers diverse applications in agriculture, ranging from enhancing soil health and promoting plant growth to improving livestock well-being and supporting aquaculture. It has numerous applications in the cosmetic industry and its benefits range from enhancing skin barrier function and reducing inflammation to treating acne and supporting anti-aging efforts. L. rhamnosus exhibits potent antimicrobial and antagonistic activities against a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms. Its ability to produce antimicrobial substances, compete with pathogens, and modulate the immune system makes it a valuable probiotic for promoting health and preventing infections. L. rhamnosus is well-defined product specifications ensuring its efficacy, safety, and stability for use in various health and wellness applications. Proper adherence to these specifications is crucial for maintaining the quality and benefits of the probiotic in end-user products

Product Specifications of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus

L. rhamnosus is a probiotic bacterium widely used in various health and wellness products. The following are the detailed product specifications for L. rhamnosus:

General Information:

  • Species: L. rhamnosus
  • Strain Designation: Varies by application (e.g., L. rhamnosus GG, L. rhamnosus 899-1)
  • Synonyms: Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (updated nomenclature)
  • Appearance: White to off-white powder
  • Cell Morphology: Gram-positive, non-motile, rod-shaped, often appearing in chains

Microbiological Specifications:

  • Viable Cell Count: Typically, ≥ 10^10 CFU/g
  • Pathogen-Free: Must be free from pathogenic microorganisms including E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
  • Total Plate Count: ≤ 1,000 CFU/g
  • Yeast and Mould: ≤ 100 CFU/g
  • Coliforms: ≤ 10 CFU/g

Physiological and Biochemical Properties:

  • Gram Stain: Positive
  • Catalase Test: Negative
  • Growth Temperature Range: 30°C - 45°C
  • Optimal Growth Temperature: 37°C
  • pH Tolerance: Survives in pH 3.5 - 8.0
  • Salt Tolerance: Can tolerate up to 6.5% NaCl
  • Oxygen Requirement: Facultative anaerobe.

Chemical Specifications:

  • Moisture Content: ≤ 5%
  • Carrier Materials: Typically includes maltodextrin, microcrystalline cellulose, or other food-grade carriers
  • Excipient Compatibility: Suitable for use with common excipients in food and pharmaceutical applications.

Stability and Storage:

  • Shelf Life: Typically, 24 months when stored appropriately
  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place, preferably at 4°C or below
  • Packaging: Available in various packaging sizes (e.g., 1 kg, 10 kg, bulk packaging) with moisture-proof, air-tight containers.

Application and Usage:

  • Dosage Forms: Capsules, tablets, powders, sachets, liquid suspensions, dairy products, functional foods, and beverages
  • Recommended Dosage: Varies by product and application; commonly 1-10 billion CFU per serving
  • Intended Use: Supports digestive health, boosts immune function, aids in the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, promotes vaginal health, and enhances overall well-being.

Regulatory and Compliance

  • Compliance: Meets relevant standards for dietary supplements and food additives
  • Certifications: Generally regarded as safe (GRAS) status by the FDA, non-GMO, allergen-free, kosher, and halal certifications available upon request
  • Labelling Requirements: Must include strain designation, viable cell count, storage conditions, expiration date, and any allergen information

Analytical Methods:

  • Viable Cell Count: Determined by plating on de Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe (MRS) agar and incubating anaerobically at 37°C for 48 hours
  • Moisture Content: Measured by Karl Fischer titration or loss on drying method
  • Microbial Contaminants: Tested according to standard microbiological procedures for food and pharmaceuticals.