Exploring the dark side of probiotics to pursue light: Intrinsic and extrinsic risks to be opportunistic pathogens
Ruiyan Xu, Yifeng Yu, Tingtao Chen
Abstract
Probiotics, live microorganisms with multiple health benefits, have gained popularity for their roles in maintaining daily health and treating a variety of diseases. However, they have the potential to be opportunistic pathogens in some conditions. This review delves into the intrinsic and extrinsic risks associated with probiotics. Intrinsic risks involve the production of harmful substances, such as toxins and invasive factors, biofilm formation, bacteria emboli, antibiotic resistance with relevant genetic materials, genetic plasticity, and metabolic issues, while extrinsic risks include problems in regulatory oversight and public awareness, host health status and appropriately administration. It emphasizes the need for a balanced view of their therapeutic benefits and potential hazards, advocating for further research to understand the complex interactions between probiotics and the human microbiome, to optimize the safety and efficacy of probiotics. • Some probiotics may invade or make toxins, causing disease in special conditions. • Gene transfer and mutations may lead to harmful traits or antibiotic resistance. • Global regulatory differences could lead to chaotic use and contamination. • Probiotics may enter the bloodstream, requiring caution for vulnerable population.