Inhibition of Pathogens by Probiotic Bacteria

Abstract

Compositions containing a lactic acid-producing bacterial strain, e.g., Bacillus coagulans for inhibition of pathogenic bacterial infections. Spores or extracellular products produced by the bacterial strains are also useful as inhibitory agents.

We claim: 
     
         1 . A composition comprising an extracellular product derived from an isolated  Bacillus coagulans  GBI-30 strain (ATCC Designation Number PTA-6086). 
     
     
         2 . The composition of  claim 1 , further comprising a pharmaceutically-acceptable carrier suitable for oral administration. 
     
     
         3 . The composition of  claim 1 , wherein said extracellular product is a supernatant or filtrate of said isolated  Bacillus coagulans  GBI-30 strain (ATCC Designation Number PTA-6086). 
     
     
         4 . The composition of  claim 1 , wherein said extracellular product is semi-purified, purified, or lyophilized. 
     
     
         5 . The composition of  claim 1 , wherein said extracellular product possesses anti-microbial activity. 
     
     
         6 . The composition of  claim 2 , wherein said extracellular product is present at a ratio of 1% to 90%. 
     
     
         7 . The composition of  claim 6 , wherein said extracellular product is present at a ratio of 10% to 75%. 
     
     
         8 . The composition of  claim 1 , wherein said composition is formulated into a liquid ointment composition. 
     
     
         9 . The composition of  claim 8 , further comprising Emu oil. 
     
     
         10 . The composition of  claim 1 , wherein said strain produces L(+) dextrorotatory lactic acid and produces spores resistant to temperatures of up to 90° C.