Lactobacillus sporogenes, more correctly called Bacillus coagulans, is a lactic-acid producing bacteria that is marketed as a probiotic. A probiotic is a microorganism that can beneficially affect its host when ingested. Probiotics are currently a popular area of interest for scientists as well as food manufacturers; however, the ability of L.sporogenes to benefit humans or animals is still an area of research.
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Characteristics
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Lactobacillus sporogenes is a gram positive, lactic-acid producing and spore-forming bacteria. This means the bacteria, through the process of fermentation, can break down sugars to create lactic acid. It also means that they can germinate, creating spores that can spread and, in theory, provide vital health benefits.
The bacteria are rod shaped and usually remain as single rods, although they can form chains. They thrive at a temperature range of 95 F to 122 F and at a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Lactobacillus sporogenes are facultative anaerobes, meaning they can produce acids through fermentation without producing gas as a byproduct.
History
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Lactobacillus sporogenes was discovered in 1933. It was originally assigned to the Lactobacillus genus as it exhibited characteristics of this group, including its ability to produce lactic acid. However, in 1939, the bacteria were reassigned to the Bacillus genus because they had the ability to form spores, which typical Lactobacilli cannot. So the correct name for this bacterium is Bacillus coagulans. However, even to this day there is debate on the correct classification of this bacterium because it does seem to have traits of both families.
Controversy
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Lactobacillus sporogenes bacterium is being marketed as a probiotic to aid in a variety of conditions. However, there are no such bacteria as Lactobacillus sporogenes. The correct name, Bacillus coagulans, should be researched before it is used in humans. Although most bacteria in the Bacillus family are nonpathogenic (do not cause disease), they are also not natural inhabitants of human or animal systems. Since Lactobacillus bacteria are natural inhabitants of the digestive system, the makers of these products are purposefully using the incorrect name to promote the products as similar but better alternatives to other Lactobacilli probiotics.
Clinical Indications
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The bacterium Lactobacillus sporogenes is marketed as a dietary supplement or is added to foods to aid in controlling several medical conditions. Although some patients report beneficial effects, more research needs to be completed to determine definitive results.
Lipid disorders---pre-clinical studies in rats fed fermented milk (therefore containing L.sporogenes) showed lower serum cholesterol levels than rats fed skim milk. Researchers theorize that the Lactobacillus binds to the cholesterol in the intestinal lumen, thereby reducing the level in the blood.
Digestive Disorders---L. sporogenes inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms in the digestive tract. This helps to restore the natural gastrointestinal organisms to normal levels. This action helps to treat conditions such as diarrhea and constipation.
Vaginitis---The introduction of L.sporogenes into the vagina of patients experiencing nonspecific vaginitis can help to relieve symptoms.
Immune System Booster---The presence of intestinal bacteria stimulates the production of antibodies, which aids in overall immune system responses.
Advantages
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Lactobacillus sporogenes do exhibit traits that are advantageous over other Lactobacilli, including the commonly used Lactobacillus acidophilus. L. sporogenes are able to tolerate higher temperatures, which makes manufacturing easier and cheaper. It also prolongs the shelf life of the supplement. L. sporogenes also tolerate the acidity of the gastric system, meaning that more of the bacteria is viable (able to live) once reaching the intestines. A probiotic is only functional if it can reach the intestines, implant and grow, thereby having a chance to perform its beneficial duties.
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