Therapeutic Potential of Probiotics: A Ray of Hope or Nightmare?

Background: The role of various probiotic microorganisms with a particular emphasis on their therapeutic use in human health and disease has been highlighted by diverse scientific research reports. Due to improvement and introduction of new technologies useful to understand the functionality and mode of action of probiotics with respect to nutritional as well as health perspectives, the research on probiotics has recently grabbed the attention of manufacturers, regulators as well as researchers. Currently there are clinical trial based evidences to support the effectiveness of probiotic interventions in various types of diarrheal diseases, chronic gastrointestinal inflammatory disorders, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, diabetes, oral health etc. However, due to inadequate awareness about risks associated with the probiotics amongst physicians, regulatory authorities, consumers and manufacturers many attributes like quality, safety and efficacy require urgent attention. At the same time regulatory guidelines for these products face ambiguity. So, it is of utmost importance to evaluate the true status of probiotic products available in market with respect to all above mentioned parameters and to formulate harmonized regulatory guidelines for the manufacturing of probiotic products. Conclusion: The present compilation aims to highlight the progression of probiotic research related to therapeutic potentials of probiotics, clinical trials on probiotics, risks and regulatory concerns associated with probiotics and their use.