Strain-specific interactions between probiotic bacteria and nanocurcumin: implications for gastrointestinal health

Abstract

The present research reports the strain-specific interactions between probiotics and nanocurcumin using two widely used probiotic strains, Bacillus clausii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. Bacillus clausii was characterized as a Gram-positive bacterium with variable growth patterns but exposure to nanocurcumin inhibited its growth, suggesting an antimicrobial effect. In contrast, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG demonstrated enhanced growth in the presence of nanocurcumin, indicating a potential beneficial relationship. Despite a decrease in survival in simulated gastric fluid, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG’s resilience in acidic environments highlights the challenges probiotics face in the gastrointestinal tract. These contrasting effects of nanocurcumin on the two strains emphasize the importance of understanding strain-specific interactions. The findings suggest that nanocurcumin could be utilized to optimize probiotic treatments, especially for gastrointestinal health, and warrant further research into its mechanisms and clinical applications.