Frontiers in Microbiology (Sep 2020)

Probiotics, Prebiotics, Synbiotics, and Paraprobiotics as a Therapeutic Alternative for Intestinal Mucositis

  • Viviane Lima Batista,
  • Tales Fernando da Silva,
  • Luís Cláudio Lima de Jesus,
  • Nina Dias Coelho-Rocha,
  • Fernanda Alvarenga Lima Barroso,
  • Laisa Macedo Tavares,
  • Vasco Azevedo,
  • Pamela Mancha-Agresti,
  • Pamela Mancha-Agresti,
  • Mariana Martins Drumond,
  • Mariana Martins Drumond

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2020.544490
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11

Abstract

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Intestinal mucositis, a cytotoxic side effect of the antineoplastic drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), is characterized by ulceration, inflammation, diarrhea, and intense abdominal pain, making it an important issue for clinical medicine. Given the seriousness of the problem, therapeutic alternatives have been sought as a means to ameliorate, prevent, and treat this condition. Among the alternatives available to address this side effect of treatment with 5-FU, the most promising has been the use of probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and paraprobiotics. This review addresses the administration of these “biotics” as a therapeutic alternative for intestinal mucositis caused by 5-FU. It describes the effects and benefits related to their use as well as their potential for patient care.

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