Scientists used computer analysis to study 161 different types of Lactobacillus bacteria (the “good” bacteria found in yogurt and fermented foods) to see which ones might help reduce food allergies. They looked at the genetic makeup and proteins of these bacteria to find ones that could calm down allergic reactions without causing new problems. One type called Latilactobacillus sakei stood out as especially promising. While these computer results are exciting, scientists need to do real-world tests with people before we know if this bacteria can actually help prevent or manage food allergies.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Can certain types of friendly bacteria (probiotics) help reduce food allergies by looking at their genetic code and proteins?
  • Who participated: This was a computer study analyzing 161 different reference samples of Lactobacillus bacteria—no actual people or animals were involved in this phase
  • Key finding: One specific type of bacteria called Latilactobacillus sakei showed the most promise based on its genetic features for potentially helping with allergies, but this needs real-world testing
  • What it means for you: This research is very early-stage and suggests a possible direction for future allergy treatments, but it’s not ready to use yet. Don’t expect probiotic products to cure allergies based on this study alone—more research is needed first

The Research Details

This was a computer-based study, not an experiment with people or animals. Researchers used special computer programs to examine the genetic instructions (DNA) and proteins of 161 different Lactobacillus bacteria samples. They looked for specific genetic patterns that might help calm down allergic reactions and checked whether any parts of these bacteria might trigger allergies themselves. Think of it like using a microscope to examine blueprints rather than building the actual house.

The scientists used several different computer tools and databases to analyze the bacteria. They searched for special genetic sequences called “immunosuppressive motifs” that might help reduce allergic responses. They also looked for enzymes (special proteins that do specific jobs) and checked if any bacterial proteins matched known allergens that could cause problems.

This type of study is useful for narrowing down which bacteria are worth studying further in real experiments with cells or animals. It’s a screening tool that helps scientists decide which candidates deserve more expensive and time-consuming testing.

Computer analysis is much faster and cheaper than testing hundreds of bacteria in a laboratory. It helps scientists focus their efforts on the most promising candidates before doing expensive real-world experiments. This approach can identify bacteria that have the right genetic features to help with allergies while avoiding ones that might cause problems.

This study is preliminary research—it’s the first step in a long process. The analysis was thorough and used multiple computer tools to cross-check results, which is good. However, computer predictions don’t always match what happens in real life. The study didn’t test these bacteria in actual people or even in cells, so we can’t be sure the predictions are correct. The authors themselves say more experimental studies are needed to verify their findings.

What the Results Show

Among all 161 Lactobacillus bacteria analyzed, Latilactobacillus sakei emerged as the top candidate for potentially helping with food allergies. This bacteria had favorable genetic features that suggest it might produce compounds that calm down allergic reactions. It also appeared to have fewer proteins that could trigger allergies themselves.

The researchers found that certain genetic patterns in bacteria can help reduce allergic responses. They identified something called “immunosuppressive motifs”—think of these as genetic instructions that tell the bacteria to make calming chemicals. Latilactobacillus sakei had these helpful patterns.

The study also found that some bacteria have enzymes (special proteins) that might help break down or modify compounds related to allergies. These enzymes could potentially make allergic reactions less severe. However, the researchers were careful to also check that Latilactobacillus sakei didn’t have proteins that commonly cause allergies.

The analysis revealed that not all Lactobacillus bacteria are equally helpful for allergies. Some types had genetic features that could actually trigger allergic reactions or cross-reactions (where your body confuses one allergen with another). This is important because it means not all probiotics are the same—some might even be problematic for people with allergies. The study also identified that certain metabolites (chemicals produced by bacteria) like 17,18-epoxy eicosatetraenoic acid might help reduce allergic responses, though this needs further testing.

Previous research has suggested that probiotics can help balance the gut bacteria and reduce allergies, but scientists haven’t known exactly which bacteria work best or why. This study builds on that knowledge by using modern computer analysis to identify specific bacteria and their genetic features. Earlier studies showed that an imbalanced microbiome (unhealthy mix of gut bacteria) is linked to food allergies, and this research suggests that Latilactobacillus sakei might help restore that balance.

This is a computer study only—no actual bacteria were tested in cells, animals, or people. Computer predictions don’t always work in real life. The study looked at reference samples in databases, which may not represent all variations of these bacteria. The researchers didn’t test whether Latilactobacillus sakei actually reduces allergies in real situations. They also couldn’t determine the right dose or how long someone would need to take it. Finally, different people have different microbiomes and immune systems, so what works in theory might not work for everyone.

The Bottom Line

This research suggests Latilactobacillus sakei is worth studying further, but it’s too early to recommend it for allergy management. Current evidence level: Very Low (computer analysis only). Wait for human studies before considering it as a treatment. If you have food allergies, continue following your doctor’s advice and avoid your known allergens.

People with food allergies or those interested in allergy prevention should know about this research direction. Parents of children with allergies might find this hopeful for future options. However, this isn’t ready for use yet. People without allergies don’t need to change anything based on this study. Anyone considering probiotics for allergies should talk to their doctor first.

This is very early-stage research. Realistic timeline: 3-5 years minimum before we know if this bacteria actually helps people. Scientists need to test it in cells first (1-2 years), then in animals (1-2 years), then in human trials (2-3 years). Don’t expect this to be available as a treatment anytime soon.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track current allergy symptoms weekly (severity 1-10, number of allergic reactions, medications used) to establish a baseline. This will help you notice any changes if you ever try a probiotic in the future.
  • Keep a detailed food and symptom diary noting what you eat and any allergic reactions. This helps identify your specific triggers while you wait for new allergy treatments to be developed.
  • Set a reminder to check scientific news about Lactobacillus sakei research every 6 months. When human studies begin, you can decide whether to discuss participation with your allergist. Continue tracking your symptoms to have good data if new treatments become available.

This research is preliminary computer analysis only and has not been tested in humans. Do not use this information to self-treat food allergies. If you have food allergies, continue following your doctor’s guidance and avoid known allergens. Probiotics are not a proven treatment for food allergies at this time. Always consult with your allergist or healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or probiotic product, especially if you have allergies or take medications. This study suggests a possible future direction for research but does not provide evidence for current clinical use.