Probiotics & Immunity Quiz

All of the statements provided in the question are true. Treg immunity has been extensively studied in relation to prebiotics, particularly FOS and GOS. Prebiotics are indeed not digested by the small intestine, but instead, they undergo anaerobic fermentation in the colon, leading to the production of short-chain fatty acids. These fatty acids have been found to have significant beneficial impacts on the function of intestinal epithelial cells. Therefore, the correct answer is that all of the above statements are true.

All of the statements about the benefits of normal flora are true. Consuming traditional lactobacillus rich fermented foods can lead to fewer allergies. Children with stable gut flora populations have a lower incidence of atopic disease. Additionally, specific abnormalities in the intestinal microbiota can increase the risk of disease later in life.

The statement "all of the above are TRUE" is the correct answer because it accurately reflects the information provided in the options. The options state that the main cells of Th2 immunity include B cells, mast cells, and eosinophils, which is true. It also states that Th2 dominancy carries a higher risk for infection, which is true. Lastly, it states that Th2 over activation underlies allergy-related IgE-based disease and predisposes to systemic autoimmune disease, which is also true. Therefore, all of the statements in the options are true.

The statement "all of the above are TRUE" is the correct answer because Treg cells indeed regulate T helper cell function, assist in maintaining oral/mucosal tolerance, and are key to the negative regulatory component of immune responsiveness. Treg cells play a crucial role in immune regulation by suppressing excessive immune responses and preventing autoimmune diseases. They help to maintain immune homeostasis and prevent immune-mediated tissue damage. Therefore, all of the statements provided are true regarding Treg immunity.

Th2 cells are a subset of T-helper cells that play a crucial role in the immune response. They are responsible for driving humoral immunity, which involves the production of antibodies to fight against extracellular organisms. Th2 cells up-regulate antibody production, which helps in neutralizing pathogens outside of cells. This response is important in defending against infections caused by bacteria, parasites, and allergens.

Th1 cells primarily promote inflammation and activation of cytotoxic T cells. Th1 rigidity and the potential pathological consequences can be moderated by upregulating production of Th2 dominant cytokines. Persistent Th1-mediated inflammation of the GI tract is associated with pathologies like Crohn's disease, H. pylori gastritis, and cellular autoimmunity.

The statement that there is NO difference in flora between caesarean born infants and conventionally (vaginally) born infants is false. Research has shown that infants born via caesarean section have a different composition of gut flora compared to those born vaginally. Vaginally born infants acquire their initial gut flora from their mother's birth canal, while caesarean born infants are exposed to different bacteria in the hospital environment. This difference in flora can have implications for the development of the immune system and overall health of the infant.

Th1 cells are a subset of T helper cells that play a crucial role in cellular immunity. They are responsible for activating and coordinating the immune response against intracellular pathogens, such as viruses. Th1 cells stimulate the production of cytotoxic T cells and promote the release of cytokines that enhance the killing of infected cells. This response is essential for eliminating intracellular pathogens and preventing their spread. Th1 cells do not drive humoral immunity or reduce mucosal tolerance, and they have a well-known function in the immune system.

Oligosaccharide prebiotics are substances found in breast milk that cannot be digested by infants but can be fermented by the bacteria in their colon. This fermentation process selectively promotes the growth and activity of Bifidobacterium spp., which are beneficial microbes in the infant's gut. These prebiotics serve as a food source for these beneficial bacteria, helping to support their growth and function.

S. boulardii is the correct answer because when administered in combination with mesalmine, it has been shown to reduce the number of relapses in patients with Crohn's disease.

The hygiene hypothesis suggests that the marked increase in atopic disease in industrialized countries may be associated with excessive hygienic practices. This means that the prevalence of conditions such as asthma, allergies, and eczema is higher in countries where hygiene is prioritized, possibly due to reduced exposure to certain microbes and pathogens. This hypothesis suggests that a lack of early childhood exposure to germs and infections may lead to an overactive immune system that reacts to harmless substances, resulting in allergic and autoimmune diseases.

The correct answer is i. B. longum + prebiotics ii. CRP levels. This is because the statement mentions a study on UC patients, and the combination of B. longum (a probiotic) with prebiotics has been shown to have significant effects on reducing inflammation and improving gut health in patients with UC. CRP levels, which are a marker of inflammation, would be expected to be suppressed as a result of this therapy.

The statement "antioxidant status has NO effect on Th1/Th2 balance" is false. Antioxidant status can indeed have an effect on the Th1/Th2 balance. Antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress, which can modulate the immune response and influence the balance between Th1 and Th2 cells.

L. rhamnosus was shown to significantly increase wheezing in patients with asthma.

The probiotic strain L. rhamnosus was given to mothers of high-risk infants during the first 6 months of life, resulting in a significant reduction in the prevalence of atopic disease up to the age of 4 years old.

The statement that MS has no association with Th1 and Th2 subsets is FALSE. MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that is characterized by an imbalance between Th1 and Th2 immune responses. Th1 cells are thought to drive the inflammatory response in MS, while Th2 cells are involved in regulating the immune response and promoting tissue repair. The dysregulation of Th1/Th2 balance is believed to contribute to the development and progression of MS.

Cytokines are a large group of small molecules that travel to other cells and have the ability to up regulate or down regulate them. These molecules play a crucial role in cell-to-cell communication and are involved in various immune responses and inflammatory processes. They can either enhance or suppress the immune system's response, depending on the specific cytokine and the context in which it is released.

L. rhamnosus has demonstrated positive benefits on the pathogenesis of pouchitis.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide various health benefits when consumed. They are known to aid in digestion, improve gut health, boost the immune system, and promote overall well-being. However, they do not increase the bioavailability of all water-soluble vitamins and minerals. While probiotics can enhance the absorption of certain nutrients, they do not have a universal effect on all water-soluble vitamins and minerals.

B. animalis may not be an optimal strain against respiratory infections because it is not commonly associated with respiratory health benefits. While B. breve, B. bifidum, and L. acidophilus have been studied for their potential to support respiratory health, there is limited evidence suggesting the same for B. animalis. Therefore, it may not be the best choice for targeting respiratory infections.