Neutralisation of endogenous transforming growth factorβ1 (TGFβ1) prevents intestinal fibrosis

ileum were confirmed using a multiport sampling enteric tube. In the randomized controlled trial of UCCll8 (101°/day for 21 days), two oral delivery vehicles (milk, n=20 vs yoghurt, n=20; controls n=20 for each delivery vehicle) were then compared for survival/colonisation with UCC118 and its influence on fecal flora• There was no significant difference between milk and yoghurt, in delivery of the UCCll8 lactobacilli, based on viable fecal counts (103-106 organisms/gin feces). Each system was associated with significant increases ( 10-100-fold) in total fecal lactobacilli, bifidobacteria and enterococci; fecal coliforms and bacteroides were unaltered. Five subjects (5/40; milk 4, yoghurt 1) were still colonized with the UCCll8 strain 21 days after cessation of feeding. No adverse effects were reported. Conclusions: (1) We have developed a probiotic Lactobacillus strain (UCC118), that is anti-microbial in vitro, bifidogenic in vivo, suitable for versatile delivery systems, acid/bile tolerant and survives gut transit in high numbers; (2) in contrast to earlier reports, long term colonization was achieved with this probiotic strain; and (3) the properties of this strain are advantageously suited to future therapeutic testing in IBD. Support: E.U., Bioresearch Ireland & the Health Research Board, Ireland.