Effects of Bifidobacterium bifidum G9-1 on Nasal Symptoms in a Guinea Pig Model of Experimental Allergic Rhinitis.

Recent studies of several animal models have shown beneficial effects of probiotics against allergic responses. However, few reports have examined the effects of probiotics on allergic nasal symptoms such as sneezing and nasal obstruction in animal models of allergic rhinitis. This study evaluated the efficacy of Bifidobacterium bifidum G9-1 (BBG9-1) on antigen-induced nasal symptoms using guinea pig models of allergic rhinitis. Oral administration of BBG9-1 significantly inhibited antigen-induced allergic nasal reactions such as sneezing and nasal obstruction. Our results suggest that BBG9-1 may be useful for alleviating nasal symptoms in patients with allergic rhinitis.