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Probiotics have proven effective in reducing exposure to toxic flame retardant chemicals
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
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A new study by researchers at the University of California, Riverside, has found that probiotics may reduce the negative impacts of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) on neurodevelopment, behavior, and metabolism. The results are published in the journal Archives of Toxicology.
Key findings of the study
PBDEs are flame retardants found in furniture, carpets, curtains, electronics, and even baby products. They are known as hormone disruptors and tend to accumulate in the environment and the human body, including tissue and breast milk.
- Problem: Exposure to PBDEs during pregnancy and breastfeeding causes autism-like behavior, metabolic syndrome, and gut microbiota disruption in mice.
- Solution: Adding the probiotic Limosilactobacillus reuteri (LR) to the mother's diet reduces these effects.
Study design
- Method: Female mice were exposed to a mixture of PBDEs or a control substance (corn oil) during pregnancy and lactation. Some of them received the probiotic LR.
- Assessment: The parameters of offspring development in the postnatal period and behavior in adulthood were studied.
Results
Physical development:
- Males exposed to PBDEs experienced decreased weight gain and delayed incisor eruption.
- Probiotic LR eliminated these delays in both males and females.
Behavioral changes:
- Females exhibited excessive digging and hyperactivity, which were also reduced by LR supplementation.
Metabolism:
- Improved glucose metabolism and insulin levels in adult female rats exposed to PBDEs but given LR.
Gut microbiota:
- PBDEs altered gut microbiota composition in a sex- and age-dependent manner.
- LR promoted increased bacterial diversity in females and prevented microbiota changes in males.
Significance of the study
According to the study's lead author, Professor Margarita Curras-Collazo:
"Therapy targeting the maternal gut microbiota may protect against toxin-related diseases in both childhood and adulthood."
Benefits of Probiotics:
- Simplicity and availability: LR is found in fermented foods (sugar beets, miso, kimchi, sauerkraut) and yogurts.
- Low risk to the developing organism.
Recommendations:
- Using probiotics as an early intervention to prevent long-term consequences of toxin exposure.