Abstract:

The present study introduces a composite probiotic blend comprising Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BLa36 and Bifidobacterium breve BBr60. This blend demonstrates synergistic effects in stabilizing mood by balancing neurotransmitters, reducing stress responses, and improving behavioral symptoms. The potential application of this probiotic blend in the prevention and treatment of anxiety and depression is discussed.

Keywords: Probiotics, Bifidobacterium animalis, Bifidobacterium breve, Mood Stabilization, Anxiety, Depression, Gut-Brain Axis

Introduction

Emotional disorders such as anxiety and depression significantly impact daily life and mental health. Traditional treatments, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), often exhibit limitations such as delayed efficacy, significant side effects, and limited treatment success, leading to poor patient compliance. With advancing research on the human microbiome, the concept of the "gut-brain axis" has gained widespread recognition, highlighting the intricate bidirectional communication between gut microbiota and the brain. Probiotics, known for their role in maintaining gut microbiota balance, have shown great potential in managing emotional disorders.

Materials and Methods

Probiotic Strains:

The composite probiotic blend consists of:

- Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BLa36 (CGMCC No. 24029)

- Bifidobacterium breve BBr60 (CGMCC No. 12915)

Preparation of Probiotic Blend:

The preparation involves standard techniques in the field:

1. Activation and cultivation of BLa36 and BBr60 strains in suitable media.

2. Harvesting the cultured cells by centrifugation to obtain the cell suspension.

3. Mixing the cell suspensions of both strains in specified ratios (1:20 to 20:1).

4. Optionally adding protective agents and freeze-drying to produce a powdered form.

Formulations:

The probiotic blend can be formulated into various delivery forms, including freeze-dried powders, capsules, tablets, or granules, ensuring a minimum viable count of \(1 \times 10^{10}\) CFU/mL or CFU/g.

Results

Synergistic Effects:

The combined use of BLa36 and BBr60 strains has shown to significantly enhance mood stabilization effects compared to the use of each strain individually. The blend effectively regulates neurotransmitter balance, reduces stress hormone levels such as corticosterone, and improves behavioral symptoms associated with anxiety and depression.

 Mechanisms of Action:

-  Neurotransmitter Regulation: The blend helps in maintaining the balance of neurotransmitters, providing a biochemical basis for mood stability.

-  Stress Response Reduction: By lowering corticosterone levels, the blend mitigates physiological mechanisms underlying emotional disorders.

-  Behavioral Improvements: Demonstrated significant positive behavioral changes, including reduced anxiety and depressive behaviors.

Discussion

Gut-Brain Axis:

This study supports the gut-brain axis theory, indicating that gut microbiota plays a crucial role in regulating mood and cognitive functions. The synergistic effects of the probiotic blend provide a new strategy for managing emotional disorders through gut microbiota modulation.

Clinical Implications:

Given the high safety profile and low risk of resistance associated with probiotics, this composite probiotic blend offers a promising alternative to traditional treatments for anxiety and depression. Further clinical studies are warranted to validate these findings and explore the full therapeutic potential of the blend.

Conclusion

This study presents a novel composite probiotic blend with significant mood-stabilizing effects. The blend's ability to regulate neurotransmitters, reduce stress responses, and improve behavioral symptoms underscores its potential application in preventing and treating anxiety and depression. The findings highlight the importance of exploring gut microbiota modulation as a viable strategy for mental health management.