Neurological disorders are classified as any disease that effects the nervous system or any abnormalities in the brain, spinal chord or the nerves. Neurological diseases can be categorized into distinct groups. Three of the larger groups that affect the central nervous system (CNS) include:

• Neurodevelopmental disorders which manifest during early childhood, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

• Neurodegenerative disorders which manifest after the gradual loss of neuron function, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD)

• Neuropsychiatric disorders (mental health conditions) are defined as a loss in mental cognition or function. Includes disorders such as major depressive disorder (MDD)

Recent scientific evidence point out the undisputable link between the gut and the brain. This bi-directional communication system is known as the gut-brain axis (GBA), where the gut and brain send signals through the vagus nerve. The three groups of CNS disorders often share similarities in gut issues, such as gut dysbiosis, neuroinflammation, reduced intestinal barrier integrity (leaky gut), and oxidative stress. These lead to alteration of communication in the GBA.

Called the 'Second Brain' - having the second largest number of neurons besides our brain, our gut is connected to the brain via the Gut-Brain Axis (GBA). This is why we have “butterflies” in our stomach when we are nervous.

Unfortunately, gut issues such as constipation impact people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) on a daily basis. Low amounts of good bacteria have contributed to dopamine and serotonin imbalances, and unwanted symptoms. Patients with severe, later stages of PD may develop motor symptoms such as tremors and slowness of movements (bradykinesia).

Interestingly, research shows that treating the gut with Neurobiotics can help balance neurotransmitters such as dopamine, significantly improving the quality of life of those with PD.

Different strains of Lactiplantibacillus (Formerly Lactobacillus) plantarum are studied in various laboratories around the world, with some strains even appearing in probiotic products. What makes L. plantarum PS128 so special?

PS128 was isolated in 2007 from a batch of fu-tsai, a traditional fermented vegetable product. Professor Ying-Chieh Tsai’s research team at National Yang-Ming University was screening for a Lactobacillus strain for neurobiotic properties, and tested nearly 1,000 types of lactobacilli before discovering PS128.

Genomic sequencing validated PS128 as a unique strain, and certain sections of genes conferred its ability to code for proteins that have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, making PS128 a strong neurobiotic candidate.

The first animal study of PS128 was done on germ-free mice - stertile rodents without a gut microbiota. This model is optimal to determine effects of single strain probiotics, in this case, PS128. This published study reported that germ-free mice that ingested PS128 showed elevated levels of dopamine and serotonin in the striatum of the brain.

The first disease model that tested for the psychobiotic properties of PS128 used maternal separated (MS) mice - a model for depression and anxiety. This study concluded that MS mice that ingested PS128 showed less behaviors associated with stress and anxiety. Significant reductions in serum corticosterone - the stress hormone in mice - was also observed in MS mice which ingested PS128.

These pilot studies, followed by various studies that use PS128 on other disease models, serve as solid evidence for PS128 as a neurologically active probiotic strain.

The first animal study of PS128 was done on germ-free mice - stertile rodents without a gut microbiota. This model is optimal to determine effects of single strain probiotics, in this case, PS128. This published study reported that germ-free mice that ingested PS128 showed elevated levels of dopamine and serotonin in the striatum of the brain.

The first disease model that tested for the psychobiotic properties of PS128 used maternal separated (MS) mice - a model for depression and anxiety. This study concluded that MS mice that ingested PS128 showed less behaviors associated with stress and anxiety. Significant reductions in serum corticosterone - the stress hormone in mice - was also observed in MS mice which ingested PS128.

These pilot studies, followed by various studies that use PS128 on other disease models, serve as solid evidence for PS128 as a neurologically active probiotic strain.