Abstract
Probiotics are defined as live microorganism that are capable of changing the indigenous intestinal microbiota nad have positive effects locally as well as systemically. The mechanisms by which they exert beneficial effects depend on both the microbial and host features and include: a) modification of the intestinal microbiota and inhibition of pathogens and their products (toxins); b) enhancement of intestinal barrier function and homeostasis, and c) regulation of both innate and adaptive immunme responses.
Probiotics are able to modulate host cell signaling pathways and mediate their function and morphology. The theoretical potential of probiotics still seems to override their practical application.
Among the major indications for probiotic therapy, gastrointestinal infections, including antibiotic-associated diarrhea and Clostridium difficile infections, IBD and irritable colon shoulb be noted.