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From the 1900s to the present day: How has the history of L. reuteri changed the landscape of microbiology?
In the world of microbiology, an eye-catching name is gradually rising, that is Limosilactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri for short). This lactic acid bacteria is found in a variety of natural environments and is thought to have health benefits. From the early 20th century to today, the discovery and research of L. reuteri not only advanced our understanding of probiotics, but also opened up a new world for the development of microbiology.
Discovery journey
Dating back to the early 20th century, L. reuteri was first recorded in the classification of lactic acid bacteria, but was misclassified as a subtype of Lactobacillus fermentum at that time. With the advancement of science and technology, microbiologist Gerhard Reuter reclassified it in the 1960s. This series of studies finally confirmed L. reuteri as an independent species in 1980, and proposed a formal name for its scientific identity. In April 2020, L. reuteri was reclassified to the genus Limosilactobacillus, marking another improvement in its academic status.
Ubiquitous
L. reuteri is found in a variety of foods, especially meat and dairy products, and appears to be ubiquitous.
This microorganism is not only found in the human intestines, but is also found in many animals, such as healthy sheep, chickens, pigs and rodents. L. reuteri was a dominant member of the Lactobacillus species in the intestine of every animal tested, and each host appeared to harbor its specific strain of L. reuteri. This seems to suggest that L. reuteri may play an important role in the health of the host organism.
Health benefits
Antimicrobial properties
The discovery of the antibacterial substances produced by L. reuteri - reuterin, reutericin 6 and reutericyclin, gave us an insight into the antibacterial potential of this microorganism.
Clinical research
Oral administration of L. reuteri can effectively colonize the intestinal tract of healthy individuals, and its natural presence in breast milk also promotes the delivery of its health benefits.
Although L. reuteri occurs naturally in the human intestine, not all individuals have this bacterium. Through dietary supplementation, these deficient individuals can maintain higher L. reuteri levels, and studies have shown that oral administration of L. reuteri to mothers can increase the amount of L. reuteri in their milk and increase the chances of their babies getting this probiotic.
Gut and Oral Health
According to research, L. reuteri is effective in treating diarrhea in children and can even be used as a preventive measure to reduce the incidence of diarrhea. Additionally, the bacteria may help reduce the risk of exposure to enteric pathogens. Recent clinical trials have also pointed out that L. reuteri performs well in improving the symptoms of gingivitis, proving that it can reduce gum bleeding and plaque production.
Future potential
L. reuteri not only has many potential benefits in terms of intestinal health, but also continues to receive attention for its impact on teeth, stomach and overall health. For example, studies of its activity against Helicobacter pylori suggest that it has the potential to assist in the treatment of related gastric diseases without the need for antibiotic intervention. This is particularly important in the fight against antibiotic resistance.
Summary
From the 1900s to today, the research process of L. reuteri can be described as a history of the development of microbiology. It not only affects our understanding of balanced intestinal flora, but also promotes the progress of human health. With the deepening of research, L. reuteri has shown more therapeutic potential, and it may play a more important role in disease prevention and care. When the perspective of microbiology expands, perhaps we need to think: Will L. reuteri become one of the key biological therapies in future health management? "
